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This paper focuses on the application of the fast image processing to the internal flow field characterization, and on the set up of the experimental methodology which enables the use of direct visualization techniques to fluid power components. More in details, the design of both a low pressure hydraulic power unit and a number of polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA) transparent prototypes are firstly outlined. Afterward, the fast image processing is involved and, to highlight the usefulness of the fast image processing in the analysis of multi-phase multi-component effluxes, solid particle injection and air bubble inoculation are used. Finally, some of the results obtained using a progressive, mid resolution, high frame rate and monochrome digital camera are shown, and the internal flow evolution is qualitatively analyzed.

The paper investigates the lubrication flow within multi plate wet-clutches for hydro-mechanical variable transmissions in order to optimize the oil distribution and to reduce the thermo-mechanical stresses on the plates. Since experimental measurements are very difficult to carry out on a real system, CFD numerical tools are used for predicting the flow distribution in a real geometry under actual operating conditions. A modular approach is adopted for the domain subdivision in order to represent accurately the three dimensional geometrical features, while the volume of fluid approach is used to model the multi-phase flow that characterizes the component. Poor lubrication is predicted where high thermal stresses were observed during tests. Furthermore, the numerical modeling is validated against measurements carried out on an ad-hoc designed test rig, which adopts transparent PMMA and 3D-printed inserts for the flow investigation.