What are the different types of mechanical gearboxes?

The mechanical gearbox is a device widely used in the industrial sector. There are many types of gearboxes, but do you really know them? It is important to choose your gearbox based on technical specifications, application, available space for installation, and desired efficiency. We will present the different types of mechanical gearboxes found in the industrial sector, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.

Types of mechanical gearboxes.

The mechanical gearbox reduces the rotation speed of an electric motor, increasing the output torque. Mechanical gearboxes are generally used in many industrial applications. They can take different forms depending on their series.

The most commonly used are: worm gearboxes, in-line helical gearboxes, right-angle gearboxes, parallel shaft gearboxes, planetary gearboxes, and shaft-mounted gearboxes.

•         Worm gearboxes
•         In-line helical gearboxes
•         Right-angle gearboxes
•         Planetary gearboxes
•         Shaft-mounted gearboxes
•         Parallel shaft gearboxes

Mechanical gearboxes: Advantages and disadvantages.

Worm gearbox

This type of gearbox is the most widely used in various applications. It has many advantages such as:

-         High torque. Indeed, this type of gearbox can produce high torque, making them suitable for applications requiring powerful output force.

-        Low backlash. Worm gearboxes generally have low mechanical backlash, which means better positioning accuracy, important in many applications.

-        Long lifespan. Worm gearboxes are generally considered robust and durable, in all types of environments.

Worm gearboxes are not suitable for all applications. In certain situations, they may be less efficient than other types of gearboxes. A worm gearbox can provide power not exceeding 15kW. The choice of a gearbox will therefore vary according to the type of application and the needs in terms of speed, torque, and efficiency.

 

In-line helical gearbox

Like the worm gearbox, the in-line helical gearbox has many advantages such as:

-         High compactness. All components are housed in a small, compact casing. The in-line helical gearbox can therefore be installed in places where space is limited.

-         Wide reduction range. In-line helical gearboxes offer great flexibility in speed reduction. Indeed, they can be easily adapted thanks to their wide range of reduction ratios.

-         High torque. An in-line helical gearbox increases output torque by reducing speed. It can therefore support heavier loads and deliver high power.

-         High precision. In-line helical gearboxes provide high levels of precision in output speed. An essential point in many industries.  

In-line helical gearboxes are therefore essential for many industrial applications, especially where speed reduction and torque increase are necessary. Their efficiency and reliability are real assets in many industrial sectors. They can provide power up to 200kW and have high efficiency.

 

Right-angle gearbox

Right-angle gearboxes are also called bevel helical gearboxes. This type of gearbox is generally used in many applications such as machine tools, conveyor systems, construction equipment, and other applications requiring high power at lower speeds. It also has high efficiency.

Right-angle gearboxes can also be used to reverse the direction of rotation of the output shaft depending on the gear configuration.

The right-angle gearbox has many advantages. However, its bulky shape can make it less suitable for certain applications where space is limited.

 

Planetary gearbox

Planetary gearboxes, also called epicyclic gearboxes, are used in many industrial sectors. This type of gearbox is generally used when high torque, high efficiency and lifespan, and maximum load capacity are required.

The shaft-mounted gearbox is characterized by its compact design and low weight, which allow installation in the most restricted spaces.

 

Parallel shaft gearboxes

The parallel shaft gearbox is widely used in conveying applications and other industrial applications. It offers many power possibilities (from 0.12kW to 200kW) and torque (up to 90,000Nm). A large number of industrialists are satisfied with the parallel shaft gearbox due to:

-         Its reliability and efficiency, parallel shaft gearboxes have high efficiency, minimizing energy losses.

-         Adherence to high loads, which makes them suitable for many applications requiring high power.

-         Quiet operation and a long lifespan.

 

Shaft-mounted gearbox

The shaft-mounted gearbox is generally installed in applications using conveyor belts. This type of gearbox has various advantages that make it essential for the industrial sector:

-          The gearbox adapts to variable loads by adjusting the position of the shaft-mounted gears according to the requirements of this load.

-          The gearbox is compact, making it suitable for very restricted spaces. 

-          Shaft-mounted gearboxes can regulate overloads, which will help prolong their lifespan and reduce the risk of damage in case of unexpected loads.

In summary, the shaft-mounted gearbox adapts to many industrial applications thanks to its efficiency, flexibility, and compactness. However, the choice of a gearbox varies according to the needs of the application.

 

 

Why choose your gearbox from Dymatec Industries?

Dymatec Industries, based in Cambrai in Hauts-de-France, offers a wide range of mechanical gearboxes.

We are committed to supporting you throughout your purchasing process, whether in the determination, assembly, and supply of your mechanical gearbox.

Our team specializing in gearbox study and determination is available to answer all your requests.

Dymatec Industries offers 100% equivalent and interchangeable solutions to major brands such as SEW Usocome, Bonfiglioli, Motovario, Transteco, and others.

Our significant stock and assembly center allow your gearbox to be shipped within 24 hours.

Do not hesitate to contact us for any additional information, we are available by email: contact@dymatec-industries.com or by phone at: 03.27.74.11.65