There are a very diverse range of speed reducers and gearboxes. Here are few of common ones such as cylindrical gear reducers, worm gear reducers, planetary gearheads, cycloidal gearheads and harmonic gearheads according to structures and transmission methods. Gears provide a high output torque, high efficiency, wide range of ratios, and are available in multiple gearing assembly configuration.
Worm Gear Reducers
A worm gear reducer is one type of speed reducer consists of a worm pinion input, an output worm wheel, and are set at a right angle output orientation. Worm gear reducers are a popular type of speed reducer because they offer low initial and maintenance cost, high ratios and high output torque in a compact design package. The worm cannot be driven backwards due to high friction between the worm pinion and the worm wheel. They are easily to be mounted or coupled to an electric motor, but the efficiency decreases as the ratio increases.
Planetary Gearheads (Planetary Gearboxes)
Planetary gearboxes have properties of high precision, high output torque, high efficiency , low backlash and low noise. High transmission ratios can be easily achieved by planetary gearboxes. Besides, quality planetary gearboxes are maintenance-free for service life, and have no need to change lubricant. Because of the features and compact design, the gear manufacturing processes are more complicated, and the precision machining are required. Planetary gearheads are commonly installed with servo motors or stepping motors to increase output torque and to meet the needs of dynamic control and precise positioning.
Cycloidal Speed Reducers
A cycloidal speed reducer uses the principles of cycloidal gears to provide high gear ratios with excellent backlash, high torsional stiffness, good shock load capacity, stable operation and less wear over the gearbox life.
Harmonic Reducers
Harmonic reducers are gearboxes based on the strain-wave principle in which a flexible ring with external tooth driven by an oval wave generator and rotates in a rigid ring gear. They provide extreme high transmission accuracy, high ratios, low inertia and compact installation. The features make harmonic reducers a great solution for robotic and accurate positioning applications.
