Surface initiated tooth flank damage: Part I: Numerical model

A numerical model for the prediction of surface initiated damage on gear tooth flanks (micropitting and mild wear) is presented. This model hinges on a model of the mixed film lubrication regime and on the application of the Dang Van high-cycle multi-axial fatigue criterion. A simulation of the meshing of spur gears is performed in order to gain some understanding of the events associated with contact fatigue surface damage.