Lube Oil Consumption Simulation: Validation and Parametric Investigation

Abstract

In order to better understand and control the engine lube oil consumption (LOC) during the engine development process, manufacturers request quantitative LOC estimations by numerical simulation. This paper presents a study performed by MAHLE Metal Leve simulation team, in order to explore the level of confidence and reliability of available commercial LOC simulation codes. An initial validation using engine test results was carried-out and some parametric studies were performed to estimate the influence of some model variables on LOC.One code was selected considering aspects like: levels of development and complexity, technical support and correlation with the measurements results. This selected code is already available at MAHLE Metal Leve helping to better predict and understand the LOC causes. It is supporting the exploration of engine components optimization to reduce engine LOC in combination with several other demands like friction, durability etc.