Network analysis of an engine lubrication system

A computer program for the analysis of engine lubrication systems has been developed. A case study of a four-cylinder gasoline engine is illustrated. This paper gives the mathematical models for oil flow through a hydraulic tappet as well as those of an oil jet and plain journal bearings. The flow from an oil pump and the flow resistance through an oil filter is considered at various temperatures. In the analysis, various design guidelines are applied. The distribution of flow and pressure of an engine lubrication system is calculated, and the pressure data compared with the experimental data at a few points in the engine lubrication system. This method is helpful to design an engine system efficiently. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.