1.Definition of Worm Gearbox
Worm Gearbox is a power transmission mechanism that uses a gear speed converter to reduce the number of revolutions of the motor to the required number of revolutions and obtain a larger torque. It is widely used in the transmission systems of various machines, such as vehicles, heavy machinery, processing machinery, automated production equipment, and home appliances.
2.Working principle of Worm Gearbox
Worm Gearbox achieves speed reduction and torque increase through the meshing of the worm and worm wheel. The worm is a cylinder with spiral teeth, and the worm wheel is a spiral gear. When the worm rotates, its spiral teeth mesh with the spiral teeth of the worm wheel, thereby achieving the effect of speed reduction and torque increase.
3.Main components and functions of Worm Gearbox
1.Worm gear: This is the core transmission component of the reducer, and its main function is to transmit motion and power between two staggered axes. The worm is usually made of a harder material (such as alloy steel) to improve wear resistance, while the worm wheel is made of a softer material (such as cast iron or specially configured wear-resistant nickel bronze) to reduce friction and improve transmission efficiency.
2.Shaft and bearings: The main functions of bearings and shafts are power transmission, operation and efficiency. The parts on the shaft are axially fixed by shaft shoulders, sleeves and bearing caps. Deep groove ball bearings are usually used to bear radial loads and small axial loads. When the axial load is large, angular contact ball bearings, tapered roller bearings or a combination of deep groove ball bearings and thrust bearings are used.
3.Housing: The housing is an important component of the reducer and the base of the transmission parts. It should have sufficient strength and rigidity. It is usually made of gray cast iron. For reducers with heavy loads or impact loads, cast steel housings can also be used. The housing is made horizontally split along the axis, and the upper housing cover and the lower housing are bolted together.
4.Accessories: including oil cap/breather, end cap, oil seal, drain plug, oil mark cap/oil mark, etc. These accessories play an important role in lubrication, sealing, oil drainage, and oil quantity observation in the operation of the reducer.
4.Reasons for abnormal noise in Worm Gearbox
1.Worm gear wear: After long-term use, the worm gear and worm gear may wear, resulting in poor meshing and noise. The degree of wear can be detected by visual inspection or using measuring tools. If the wear is severe, a new worm gear and worm gear need to be replaced.
2.Bearing damage or poor lubrication: Bearing fatigue or insufficient lubrication can cause metal peeling on the bearing surface and produce abnormal noise. Ensure that the bearing is well lubricated, add or replace lubricating oil if necessary, and if the bearing is severely damaged, a new bearing needs to be replaced.
3.Improper use of lubricating oil: Insufficient lubrication or use of the wrong lubricating oil will increase friction, resulting in noise. Check the oil level and oil quality to ensure that the lubricating oil is sufficient and of good quality. If the lubricating oil is deteriorated or contaminated, a new lubricating oil needs to be replaced.
4.Improper installation: Unsteady installation of the Worm Gearbox or loose connections can cause vibration and noise. Make sure the Worm Gearbox is firmly installed and well-aligned to avoid vibration and noise caused by misalignment.
5.Overload: Worm Gearbox running at a load exceeding the rated load can cause overheating and increased noise. Check the load conditions to ensure that it is running within the normal range.
6.Mechanical failure: Some mechanical failures such as severely worn gears and loose connection parts can also cause noise in the Worm Gearbox. Perform a comprehensive inspection and repair or replace the faulty parts.
7.Foreign matter intrusion: When the Worm Gearbox is running, foreign matter such as dust and accumulated water in the surrounding environment may enter the reducer, causing poor meshing of the worm gear and noise. Make sure the environment around the Worm Gearbox is clean to prevent foreign matter from entering.
8.Design and manufacturing defects: Gear processing errors, unreasonable tooth shape design, etc. can cause poor meshing and noise. Choose a reliable quality reducer brand and model to avoid design and manufacturing defects.
Source:https://plaza.rakuten.co.jp/stepperonline/diary/202502100000/
