A modelling framework for the simulation of lubricated and dry line contacts

Complex contact interactions, which typically occur in machine elements, such as gears and bearings, require a manifold analysis methodology. This has led to the development of a large number of different simulation models throughout the last decade. The presented framework aims to incorporate the thermoelastohydrodynamic (TEHD) approach and numerical contact mechanics (NCM) into one simulation model. No analytic function of the lubrication gap is necessary, since arbitrary surfaces can be imported into the model. This leads to the possibility to analyse a wide range of different contact scenarios, considering fluid lubrication or dry contact mechanics. Example results, including a literature comparison with other models and an experimental validation of traction curves considering surface roughness, are presented to elucidate the functionalities of the developed simulation framework. •A new simulation framework, incorporating TEHD analysis and numerical contact mechanics, is presented.•Arbitrary surfaces, including surface roughness, can be imported into the model.•Transient effects and heat generation due to dry contacts are considered.•Good agreement between traditional approaches presented in literature and our model is concluded.•The consideration of surface roughness improves the agreement of the COF compared to traction experiments.