Efficiency and productivity are key in any industrial operation, and the gear drive that transfers power from the motor to your moving equipment is critical in order to keep things running smoothly. Selecting the correct Falk gear drive for the job at hand can make a big difference in productivity and operating costs.
There are many different factors to consider when choosing between gear reduction drives, including:
Service factor. Gear reduction drives are assigned a “service factor” rating that measures reliability, life and external load dynamics. Organizations such as the American Gear Manufacturer’s Association offer published lists detailing the minimum recommended service factors for various industrial applications. If your application involves severe or unusual loading requirements, or greater dependability, you may not want to rely on the minimum service factor.
Thermal capacity. The friction within a Falk gear drive generates heat, which the gear lubricant distributes to the housing for dissipation. However, if the unit generates heat faster than dissipation can occur, this can lead to severe damage and costly gearbox repairs. A Falk gear drive with an insufficient thermal capacity for the application will require an auxiliary cooling system or run the risk of reduced lifespan.
Size. A Falk gear drive should be large enough that your peak loads don’t exceed the limits of what its components can endure. Manufacturers’ catalogs will provide the information you need to determine the minimum gear drive size required. However, choosing the minimum size isn’t always the most cost-effective course of action. Investing in a gear box that’s one size larger than what you need can significantly extend both the bearing and gear tooth life of your Falk gear drive and increase the time between gearbox repairs.
There are many other factors that go into choosing the right Falk gear drive for the job. Open communication between the manufacturer and system designer is the best way to ensure a proper fit.
Posted under Tips and Tricks on Thursday, May 26th, 2011