Engine Lubrication CFD Simulation for Optimal Performance

Engine lubrication is essential for the efficiency and longevity of moving parts, especially in large internal combustion engines. A well-designed lubrication system delivers a clean, stable oil film at the correct temperature and flow rate, preventing direct contact between moving parts, reducing friction and wear, cooling, sealing, cleaning, absorbing shocks, and reducing noise. All these functions contribute to the durability of engine components and overall operation.

Predicting and simulating engine lubrication effectiveness, including oil splash in the sump and forced oil circulation, presents significant challenges. An effective Engine Lubrication CFD Simulation must account for the complex motion of engine parts and simulate transient flow across various spatial scales. In large combustion engines, the flow within bearings and small gaps significantly affects oil flow and pressure behavior.

This study focused on the oil supply system for the big-end bearings of an 18-cylinder Wärtsilä engine, one of the largest four-stroke gas engines. Wärtsilä and EnginSoft developed a moving particle simulation model, a meshless method for solving Navier-Stokes equations, to perform an accurate Engine Lubrication CFD Simulation. This approach was more practical than traditional finite-volume CFD techniques due to the geometric complexity and motion of the engine parts.

The simulation allowed the calculation of transient pressure behavior in critical areas, revealing differences in pressure stability, spikes, and low-pressure values between two bearing configurations. These insights are crucial for identifying potential cavitation issues and optimizing engine lubrication systems.

By leveraging advanced Engine Lubrication CFD Simulation techniques, engineers can ensure optimal performance and reliability of large internal combustion engines.

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