Tripod joint efficiencies?

[TravisAG]

I'm looking for any kind of rough formula I can use to calculate losses through a tripod joint at a given angle....even rule of thumb would be helpful at this point...

Thanks

Travis G

 

[Kinemagician]

Such formulas do not exist.

 

[GregLocock]

I disagree.

OP - work out the kinematics of your mechanism, use the known frictional characteristics of a ball or roller bearing, and you should be able to work out the losses.

For small angles (say up to 5 degrees) the losses will be around 1%.

Alternatively talk to OEMs, I have definitely seen dyno data on this.



Cheers

Greg Locock

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips.

 

[Fabrico]

Zero at zero degrees and it goes up from there. You will also need a given torque and speed.

The 3 big balls have almost no friction, but they ride on needle bearings. That means you should be able to get what you need by a study of the needle bearings and energy spent on on reciprocating movement.