Engineering Information

Efficiency of Speed Reducers

The efficiency of a worm gear speed reducer is given by:

It is dependent on the lead angle of the worm, input speed to the unit, operating load, and the type and temperature of lubricant. WINSMITH's rated efficiencies have been determined in accordance with AGMA Standard 6034-B92 (formerly AGMA 440.03) and are based on rated output torque, an operating temperature reflecting continuous operation and standard lubricants. If the operating load is less than the rated torque or operating temperature is not reached (such as with intermittent service) the operating efficiency will be less than rated efficiency. 

In order to establish the efficiencies of reducers where only the output torque and input horsepower are given, the output torque is converted to output horsepower by the following formula:

with the output torque in units of inch-pounds. Then to determine the efficiency of the unit, the horsepower output is divided by horsepower input as shown in the first formula above..