9. Summary
The objective of the article was to describe an analytical method for designing the commutation unit in a satellite motor, describe the results of commutation unit tests and develop new mathematical formulas describing the flow in commutation unit clearances. This objective has been was fully accomplished. The results of experimental tests of the SM satellite motor prototypes have confirmed that: - the theoretical relations for designing the motor commutation unit are correct; - the design solution of the commutation unit is correct and the operation of the commutation unit in the motor is correct; - the flow rate QCm in commutation unit clearances is variable as a function of the shaft rotation function and for a = ab = 1.38 QCm is close to zero (Figs. 11 and 14); - the flow in the commutation unit clearance is not fully developed and turbulent in nature (g = 0.76) and depends on the working liquid parameters, axial clearances of satellites in the working mechanism and the diameter of the inflow (or outflow) hole in the commutation unit plate. The mathematical formulas presented in the article can be adopted to describe leakages in the commutation unit of hydraulic machines of a different type, for example, in gerotor motors or piston motors.