Guide to Vogel's Industrial Gearboxes
Published by Adam Pol,
A gearbox is a system of gears that helps decrease or increase the speed of moving parts. While gearboxes are most synonymous with vehicles, there are other gearboxes used in different types of industries, called industrial gearboxes. Such gearboxes are made by companies such as Vogel. Industrial gearboxes are enclosed systems that help transmits mechanical energy to a transmission unit. Industrial gearboxes are different from standard ones since they need to withstand a lot more abuse and have a more stable lifespan. Industrial Vogel gearboxes can be found being used in different industries such as the steel, sugar, paper, and cement industry. This is why there are different types of industrial gearboxes.
What Gearbox Should You Pick
Helical
If you need a large and powerful gearbox, you should consider helical gearboxes. Helical gearboxes work by having two teeth meet and remain in touch as the machine rotates. These teeth are shut down to an angle facing the machine with one end. The design of helical gearboxes makes them run smoother and allows for high load angles. A helical Vogel gearbox can be used for both parallel and right shaft movements.
Bevel
A bevel gearbox is one that has curved teeth placed on cone-shaped surfaces close to the bottom of the unit. A bevel Vogel gearbox can be used in numerous applications. These include mining, rolling stock, rotating non-parallel shafts and more.
Worm
With a worm gearbox, you can power elevators and conveyor belts as these gearboxes are used for 90° of transmission. Worm gearboxes are the most common heavy-duty solution. They make use of a broad screw, called a worm, hence the name. The diameter of the screw meshes the teeth of the gearbox into the periphery of the gear.
Planetary
If you're working with advanced technologies, such as 3D printing or robotics, a planetary gearbox is going to be your best friend. A Vogel planetary gearbox uses 4 gears of which 3 surround the central gear, called the sun. Both are held by inner teeth outer ring equipment which allows these gearboxes to achieve high-torque even in limited spaces.
What Expert Engineers Suggest You Look For in a Gearbox
Mounting
The placement of an industrial Vogel gearbox is one of the first factors you need to keep in mind. Experts say that the most common mounting method involves a flanged input with a hollow bore for a C-frame motor combined with an output shaft turned to the left. Although common this mounting position may not be the best option for you since you may have a different number for the overhung load.
Overhung Load
Once the size and mounting options have been considered you need to ensure theta the size of the gearbox can take the maximum overhung load. If the load exceeds the gearbox's maximum value then you need to get a larger gearbox to keep up with the load.
Motor Integration
There are manufacturers that offer motor integration, meaning they make the motor part of the gearbox and ship it as a single unit. This allows you to save some space but you need to ensure that this type of gearbox will provide the necessary specs before you go for it.
Lubricant & Seals
Some minor but important details when it comes to industrial gearboxes are the seals and lubricant. Lubricant filled gearboxes can be shipped which is a big advantage since you don't have to fill them yourself. Seals are recommended for applications with a vertical shaft down.
Service
The service factor of an industrial gearbox is determined by the hours of use per day, type of input and shock or vibration from the use itself. A lower service factor gearbox is needed when the unit runs intermittently throughout the day and a higher service factor gearbox is needed when it runs 24 hours a day.
The class of service is determined by the service factor. With a lower service class, the gearbox can do less work without the need to be serviced. With a higher service class gearbox, you can put it to work for longer and more strenuous hours without having to service it.
Common Gearbox Maintenance
Vibration
The majority of industrial gearboxes today work in noisy environments. This makes it tricky to make not of each noise variation and its effect on the gearbox. This is why frequent vibration tests need to be done when it comes to internal bearings and gears.
Oil Leak
A regular inspection for oil leaks at both the input and output shaft can help keep a gearbox in top shape. Dust, debris, and water can enter the gearbox and get in the way of inner components if no oil is present.
Temperature & Lubrication
Make sure to check for burnt exterior paint on the gearbox and dark oil in the sight glass as these are strong signs of overheating. Lubricate the gearbox regularly to ensure everything is running smoothly and that the unit doesn't overheat.
Cleaning & Inspection
Having a clean workplace and regular inspections can help prevent any of the above and will keep the gearbox running at its best for longer. A dusty workplace might not be a big issue at first but it can contribute to big issues later on.