It may share its name with a small, squishy creature, but the industrial worm drive is actually a mighty and important system in a compact package. However, when discussing this unique type of gearbox reducer, many people get confused because the term “worm” could mean the worm drive, the worm gear, the worm wheel or the entire system.
What a Worm Drive Is
Within a Falk gearbox, a worm is a gear that is shaped like a screw and made to mesh with another gear known as the worm wheel. The term “worm drive” refers to the entire gear reducer assembly, which consists of both the worm and the worm wheel (also known as a worm gear). The advantage of this type of gearbox reducer is that it is able to effectively convert rotational speed into torque, yet it is much smaller than a Falk gearbox containing regular spur gears.
A worm drive may be small and simple, but that makes it an easy gearbox reducer to maintain and helps ensure a long, reliable life. The size also allows for compact gear arrangements and a readily modified ratio. Additional reliability comes from the fact that a basic worm drive will only turn in one direction, creating a self-locking function that is vital in many processes.
How Worm Drives Are Used
Worm drives were once used in the auto industry, before power steering was developed. The small gearbox reducer helped prevent the steering from pulling to the side of the car that had a tire blowout.
Nowadays, the worm-based gearbox reducer is used to manufacture everything from musical instruments, like violins, to hose clamps. These compact Falk gearboxes are also used in elevators, electric motors and rudders on ships. In factories using presses, rolling mills or conveyors – such as the mining industry – worm drives are essential for reliable operation.
Posted under Articles on Friday, July 29th, 2011