Installation tips for maximising shaft-mounted gearbox efficiency
GEARS, DRIVES & MOTORS SHAFT-MOUNTED GEARBOXES
TECHNIDRIVE
Installation tips for maximising shaft-mounted gearbox efficiency
Shaft-mounted gearboxes are widely used in industrial and compact drive applications where space is limited, from conveyors and mixers to pumps. They offer numerous benefits including reduced maintenance, efficiency and cost savings. But these advantages can be compromised if the gearboxes are not installed correctly. Here, David Strain, technical director at Technidrive, an automation systems specialist, explains some of the common mistakes manufacturers make when installing shaft-mounted gearboxes— and how to avoid these pitfalls to unlock efficiency and cost savings
Traditional gearboxes with solid shafts are a well-recognised feature in automotive transmissions, industrial machinery and heavy-duty equipment. Yet these mechanical power generating stalwarts have several drawbacks; including limited flexibility due to rigid design, increased weight and susceptibility to vibration or wear— all of which can lead to higher maintenance costs and decreased efficiency.
Overcoming these shortcomings is where shaft-mounted gearboxes, otherwise known as direct drive gearboxes, come in. Unlike traditional gearboxes with solid shafts, these gearboxes slide over the shaft, so the shaft supports the weight and torque. There are numerous advantages to this design.
First, shaft-mounted gearboxes eliminate the need for extra mounting components like couplings or belts. Not only does this make the designs of the gearboxes less complex, it eases the assembly and alignment process and makes the systems ideal
72 PECM Issue 77