If you’re working with a gear manufacturer to provide gears for your equipment, you’ll want to ensure those gears have a long, functional life. Ideally, you’ll work with a gear manufacturer with high-quality equipment, skilled employees, and a commitment to precision; if these conditions are met, you can rest assured your gears will outlast those produced by the competition.
But beyond that, do gears need regular maintenance to last?
Knowing the Conditions
Nothing lasts forever, but many types of gears can last for decades without the need for ongoing maintenance. Everything comes down to the nature of the gear and the conditions of its use. Pay close attention to:
- Gear materials. Some gear materials are more durable than others. For example, phosphor bronze is sometimes used for its high tolerance of wear, while ceramic gears may be more vulnerable to damage over time.
- Loads. Gears that are forced to bear heavy loads are naturally more vulnerable to wear, though this can be compensated for with the design of the gear.
- Speeds. As you might imagine, high-speed applications tend to wear gears out faster than low-speed applications; the sheer amount of contact and number of rotations are responsible for this.
- Temperatures. Though most gears are tolerant of a wide temperature range, some materials break down faster at high temperatures.
- Other harsh conditions. Other harsh conditions, such as exposure to water or other elements, may cause gears to wear down faster.
In some cases, you may need to lubricate and/or clean your gears regularly. You’ll also want to inspect all gears for any signs of damage on a regular basis; small imperfections can quickly add up to be problematic, so it pays to catch them early. In some cases, you’ll need to replace your gears periodically.
In any case, if you’re ready to place your next gear order or you’re just in need of a quote, contact Federal Gear today!