Optimization of high-speed reducer in electric vehicle based on analysis of lubrication

Purpose The purposes of this paper are optimization of high speed reducer in electric vehicles based on the analysis of lubrication and verification of simulation accuracy and optimization results. Design/methodology/approach The traditional CFD method presents poor applicability to complex geometric problems due to grid deformity. Therefore, moving particle semi-implicit (MPS) method is applied in this study to simulate lubrication of the reducer and analyze the influence of input speed and lubrication system design on the distribution. According to the results, the reducer is optimized. Meanwhile, the experiments for lubrication and churning power loss is carried out to verify the accuracy of simulation and optimization effects. Findings The flow field of lubricant inside the reducer is obtained. The lubrication system of reducer needs to be improved. Simulation and experiment show that the optimization is sufficient and efficient. Originality/value According to the simulation of lubrication, the reducer is optimized. The lubrication experimental setup is established. The conclusion of paper can provide the method and tool for reducer in electric vehicle. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-04-2024-0123/