Study on the sealing mechanism of ribbed oil-slinging ring composite seal at the axle end of high-speed train gearboxes

Purpose This study aims to investigate the sealing performance of a novel ribbed oil-slinging ring composite seal (ROSRCS) for the axle end of train gearboxes. The ROSRCS design incorporates added ribs and an inclined outer edge to enhance the sealing mechanism and reduce oil leakage. Design/methodology/approach Computational fluid dynamics simulations were used to analyze the leakage characteristics of ROSRCS under varying angles, outer edge inclinations and rib numbers and heights. The sealing performance was compared to a traditional oil-slinging ring composite seal (OSRCS). Key parameters such as oil leakage rate, turbulence dissipation intensity and jet strength were evaluated. Findings Results indicate that ROSRCS reduces the oil leakage rate by 5.7% compared to OSRCS. At a slinger ring inclination of 35°, the turbulence dissipation center in the ROSRCS flow field shifts toward the inlet, increasing the maximum turbulence dissipation intensity by 22.56%. A proper outer edge inclination enhances jet intensity, strengthening turbulence dissipation by up to 9.21%. While adding ribs may generate negative pressure zones, strategic rib configurations improve axle-end sealing performance by modifying the number, position and intensity of vortices. Originality/value This research presents a refined composite seal design that enhances the sealing efficiency of train gearbox axle ends, demonstrating improved oil retention through innovative geometric modifications. The findings contribute to the development of more efficient sealing technologies in high-speed train applications. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-10-2024-0370/