Before we quote a job we need to consider several important variables for the job. These variables will ultimately determine what types of materials we’re going to use, what type of gear to design, what machinery to use, how we process the job, and even how we charge for it.
These are some of the most important considerations:
- Loads. First, we need to know some things about the conditions in which the gear will be used. For example, we’ll need to knowwhat kind of loads the gear is going to bear so we can choose the appropriate gear design (and the right materials).
- Speed. The speed may also have an effect on the choices we make for the gear. Gears are intended to transmit speed and force, so understanding speed helps us prepare half the equation.
- Direction. Some gears are designed to change direction, whether it’s reversing direction or moving the direction to a perpendicular angle (like bevel gears). We need to know the application so we can choose the right gear type.
- Size. If this is a gear for an existing machine, there may be sizing requirements already in place. This may impact other variables as well.
- Conditions. Certain special conditions may put the gear under more stress or require a different material, such as conditions where the gear will be exposed to dust and dirt, or exceedingly high-temperature conditions.
- Noise. In some cases, gears need to minimize noise. If that’s the case, we can use helical gears or other gear varieties to limit the noise emitted.
- Precision. Finally, it’s important to know how important precision is to the job. While we treat all custom gears with meticulous precision, some jobs have lower tolerances than others.
Are you ready to have your next custom gear job quoted? Contact Federal Gear today, and we’ll get you a quote within 24 hours, or help you figure out what specs you need to be successful in your next project.