Numerical simulation of aero-engine lubrication system

A software, general analysis software of aero-engine lubrication system (GASLS), for simulating aero-engine lubrication system is presented. The software is capable of analyzing the flow, pressure, and temperature distribution in the lubrication system. The network theory and mathematical model of flow resistance for elements that include pipes, elbows, thick orifice, reductions, expansions, and nozzles are presented first. Second, the special element and combined element are introduced for treating the bearing chamber, heat exchanger, and gearbox and simplifying the calculation network, respectively. Lastly, a case study for an aeroengine lubrication system is illustrated. The distribution of oil flow, pressure, and temperature is calculated, and the oil flow results in different branches of lubrication system are compared with the experimental data. The comparison indicts that computational results agree well with the measured data. The software may be helpful in designing and analyzing aero-engine lubrication system.