Standard Material
Outside Diameter
Pitches
Pressure Angle
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We can manufacture a non standard part per drawing
Worms and worm wheels are essential components in mechanical systems where high torque transmission and compact design are necessary. These gears provide efficient power transmission at right angles and are commonly used in applications that require a significant reduction in speed, such as in conveyors, gearboxes, and lifting devices. The unique design of worm gears enables them to transmit power between non-parallel, non-intersecting shafts, making them a versatile choice for various mechanical systems.
Standard Materials for Worms & Worm Wheels
The performance of worm gears largely depends on the materials used to manufacture both the worm and the wheel. Common materials include:
- Wheel Materials:
- Phosphor Bronze (PB2): Known for its excellent wear resistance, strength, and ability to withstand high pressure. It is commonly used in worm wheels due to its ability to maintain low friction with the worm.
- Delrin: A strong, low-friction plastic material often used for lighter-duty applications, where noise reduction and smooth operation are prioritized.
- Worm Materials:
- Steel (En202): A durable material widely used for worm shafts, providing high strength and wear resistance for demanding applications.
- Delrin: For lighter applications, Delrin is also used for the worm component, offering reduced friction and quieter operation.
Size and Specifications
Worms and worm wheels are available in various sizes and configurations to suit different mechanical systems:
- Worm:
- Maximum Outside Diameter: 100mm
- Minimum Outside Diameter: 6mm
- Wheel:
- Maximum Outside Diameter: 500mm
- Minimum Outside Diameter: 6mm
The sizes make these gears suitable for both compact and larger applications, providing flexibility for different system requirements.
- Pitches: Worms and worm wheels are available in a range of pitches:
- Pitches: 0.4mod – 4mod or 64DP – 6DP (Diametral Pitch). The pitch defines the size and spacing of the teeth, ensuring proper meshing between the worm and the wheel for smooth power transmission.
- Pressure Angle: The standard pressure angle for worms and worm wheels is 20°, which is crucial for determining the contact geometry and load distribution between the gears.
Technical Considerations
Worm gears are known for their ability to provide large reductions in speed. However, on larger wheels, it is recommended to use SW type worm shafts, or alternatively, the boss diameter on the bored worms should be reduced to the root diameter. This ensures optimal meshing between the worm and worm wheel, preventing any potential issues with misalignment or excessive wear.
Custom Manufacturing
If you require non-standard parts for your application, we can manufacture custom worms and worm wheels based on your specifications. Whether it’s special sizes, materials, or configurations, we offer flexibility in our manufacturing process. You can submit a drawing or a Technical Request Form to begin the custom production process.
Applications of Worms and Worm Wheels
Worm gears are ideal for applications where a high reduction ratio is needed within a compact space. They are often used in:
- Conveyors: Worm wheels and worms help reduce the speed of conveyor belts while increasing the torque.
- Gearboxes: Worm gears are widely used in gearboxes for power transmission in industrial machinery.
- Lifting Devices: Worm gears provide the high torque needed to lift heavy loads with minimal effort.
The ability to transmit power between non-parallel shafts and their smooth, low-backlash operation make worm gears a reliable choice for such applications.
Conclusion
Worms and worm wheels offer efficient and reliable solutions for power transmission, particularly when high torque and space efficiency are required. With a range of materials like Phosphor Bronze (PB2) and Delrin for the wheel, and Steel (En202) and Delrin for the worm, they provide excellent performance in various mechanical systems. Available in a range of sizes, pitches, and configurations, worm gears can be customized to suit specific requirements. Whether you need a standard or non-standard part, worm gears are an excellent choice for applications that demand smooth, efficient, and compact power transmission.