This results in gears operating under boundary lubrication conditions. The following factors affect worm gear efficiency:ĭue to the sideway sliding motion in worm gears, it is difficult to maintain a hydrodynamic oil wedge. Spur gears normally operate at 50☏ (28☌) over ambient temperatures while worm gear temperatures typically rise 90☏ (50☌) over ambient. Worm drives are inefficient because the gears experience sliding rather than rolling contacts, leading to operating temperatures much higher than other gear types. This increases from line contact area permitting increased loading and lower wear. It has concave teeth both on the worm and helical gear. Double-throated - called a cone or hourglass. This leads to line contact, permitting higher loads without excessive wear.ģ. Single-throated - has concave helical teeth which wrap around the worm. This leads to high unit loads and wear.Ģ. Tooth contact is a single moving point on the worm drive. Non-throated - a helical gear with a straight worm. There are three major types of worm gears:ġ.

Ratios of 20:1 up to 60:1 and higher are normally achieved. They can transmit high loads at high-speed ratios. They are unique in their ability to achieve large speed reductions in a compact space. Worm gears are used in various industries and machinery applications. This article addresses how effectively lubricated worm gears affect worm gear performance. They serve as speed reducers in many different industries and applications.

Worm gears operate under difficult conditions, presenting unique lubrication demands.

Harbor freight bandsaw worm gear