A worm reducer has a single set of gears that rotates at an angle to the input worm shaft. The output shaft has a worm gear mounted on it. The output shaft can either be single or double extended. Hollow worm reducers are becoming more common in the United States and offer several advantages over solid worm reducers. They can also be mounted in multiple positions, which reduces maintenance. They also tend to produce less noise than solid-shaft worm reducers.
Worm gear manufacturers provide approved lubricants. These lubricants are approved for use in their reducers. The reducer manufacturer knows from testing which ones work best. Do not use unapproved “gear oil” as this can cause the reducer to fail. It is also important to consider the expected operating temperatures, loads, duty cycle, and speeds when choosing the correct lubricant. Most lubricants are suitable for a range of typical operating conditions.
One disadvantage of worm gear sets is that they require a break-in period to work properly. Although the worms are made from bronze, they are softer than steel. This allows them to absorb heavy shock loads. Hypoid gearmotors also achieve higher efficiency than worm gearmotors above a 30:1 ratio. Hypoid gearmotors also have a lower inertia and higher torque transfer compared to worm reducers.
The efficiency of a worm gear reducer depends on its speed and ratio. The losses at the gear mesh, lubricant windage, and oil seal lips also affect its efficiency. Efficiency also depends on ambient temperature and operating temperature. In addition, reducer break-in is also important. Comprehensive dynamometer testing is an effective way to determine worm gear reducer efficiency, but field testing is a more realistic evaluation under varied operating conditions.
Worm gear reducers have one inherent disadvantage. While other gear reducers use two gear stages, they do not produce the torque necessary to drive a machine. Worm gear reducers waste more energy because the gear teeth do not come into contact with each other. Furthermore, they consume more energy than their steel counterparts. This can lead to a high electric bill. So, if you’re considering buying a worm reducer, read on to discover why this alternative might be better for your operation.
Worm gear reducers are widely used in low-to-moderate horsepower applications. They are a good choice for low-speed applications due to their high ratios and torque output multipliers. Worm gear reducers are also used in tuning instruments, medical testing equipment, elevators, conveyor belts, and security gates. The benefits of worm reducers over helical gear reducers are clear. They can be mounted in multiple positions, so you can find the one that’s right for your operation.
Another advantage of a worm reducer is that it can handle high loads. Worm gears have a double throat, which is useful for handling heavy loads. The double throat design also allows a tighter connection between the worm and the gear. Worm gear assemblies need to be mounted correctly to transfer torque. A keyway mounting method is most commonly used. A keyway mount is a method in which multiple points of contact with the gear and shaft are drilled into the hub. The set screw is inserted into the gear to complete the assembly.