Tribology for heavy electric vehicles (EVs)
- Reference number
- APR23-0006
- Project leader
- Hansen, Jonny
- Start and end dates
- 241201-301201
- Amount granted
- 1 500 000 SEK
- Administrative organization
- Luleå University of Technology
- Research area
- Materials Science and Technology
Summary
This project, which is a collaboration between Scania and Luleå University of technology, addresses some the most critical challenge that the heavy electric vehicle (EV) technological shift is up against. The intended Adjunct Associate Professor, Dr Jonny Hansen, intends to lead this research in which the aim is to understand tribology for electric vehicles in order to improve efficiency and performance, and to mitigate bearing currents. Bearing currents is a formidable issue that risks hindering the transition to electric mobility for heavy transports if adequate technical solutions are absent. With a focus on understanding the interplay between lubricants electrical properties, lubrication regimes, tribo-chemical reactions, surface damage, and the electrical signal characteristics, the project seeks to advance the science of electrified tribological contacts. Anticipated outcomes include optimized lubricants, enhanced design criteria, and insights into preventing current-related surface damages and loss of performance. This collaboration contributes not only to academic knowledge but also facilitates Scania's active involvement in research activities at LTU, ensuring practical applications for the heavy EV sector.
Popular science description
In the pursuit of sustainable transport, Sweden is revolutionizing its heavy electric vehicle (EV) sector. Scania, in collaboration with Luleå University of Technology, embarks on a ground-breaking project led by Adjunct Associate Professor Jonny Hansen. The mission? To unravel the mysteries of bearing currents – a formidable challenge impeding seamless electrification of transportation. As Sweden aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions, electrifying the transportation sector emerges as a key factor. Scania, a committed leader in this strive, pledges a significant increase in EV sales by 2030. However, the road to electrification is threatened by challenges, one of particular concern being bearing currents. What are bearing currents? As battery voltage is converted from DC to AC that powers EVs, some of the currents leak out, traversing bearings and gears, and this causes problems. This issue isn't new, but with the ongoing shift to EVs, it has gained recent prominence. Why should we care? Bearing currents, especially in heavy EVs, could lead to electrical breakdowns in gear and bearing contacts, compromising efficiency and reliability. With Scania's ambitious goals to electrify the heavy vehicle fleet, understanding and mitigating bearing currents become paramount. This project bridges the gap between industry and academia, aiming to unlock electric mobility for heavy EVs. What is the strategy and anticipations? Led by Jonny Hansen, the project dives into the complexities of electrified tribological contacts. Here, tribology – the study of friction, lubrication, and wear – will be given specific attention to. An industrial-academic team will explore how electrical properties, lubrication regimes, and tribo-chemical reactions impact the performance of bearing and gear contacts in heavy EVs. Imagine EVs with enhanced operational reliability, efficiency, performance, extended lifespans, and reduced maintenance costs – all stemming from a better understanding of EV tribology and technology. Why does this research matter? As we witness the rise of EVs, this research is not just for automotive enthusiasts or industry experts. It is about shaping a cleaner, more efficient future of transportation. It is about making electric mobility possible for us all. By delving into the heart of heavy EV tribology, this industrial-academic collaboration seeks to propel our society into an electrified future of sustainability and mobility.