Right Angle and Parallel Shaft Gear Motors – What’s The Difference?

When we look into the major factors influencing the performance and behaviour of a gear motor, one of the most important ones turns out to be the motor shaft’s position relative to the output shaft of the speed reducer.

This positioning is the fundamental reasoning behind the difference between right angle gear motors and parallel shaft gear motors.

Key differences in areas such as durability, efficiency, and noise level are where expert opinion comes into play for gear motor suitability in a particular application.

Today’s piece is dedicated to extrapolating on these key differences to develop an understanding behind how these gear motors might be used:

Right Angle Gear Motors: Properties

One thing that may have immediately jumped out to you is the etymology behind its naming. As it suggests, right angle gear motors possess an output shaft that is perpendicular to the driveshaft. Axial motion then occurs as a result of these shafts crossing on single or two parallel planes.

With regards to the screw and wheel type used, it is common practice to opt for a worm variety as it allows for the largest assortment and combination of tooth and gear types. For example, it is not uncommon to see bevel gears and worm drives be utilised as single stage speed reducers, the latter of which provides self-locking features.

Because of their versatile nature, right angle motors are favoured, more often than not, over parallel shaft motors as they can be combined with other motors, such as a planetary gear motor – well regarded for their high torque density and efficiency.

To get the most out of your right angle gear motor it is essential it undergo regimented care.

Parallel Shaft Gear Motors: Properties

The concepts behind this gear motor are simpler to understand, relative to right angle gear motors. Their shafts sit in parallel planes to one another, making them a suitable candidate when looking to work with a flat gearbox.

Bevel gears, which we discussed above, are not used within parallel shaft gear motors. Instead, it is common to see the use of spur gears – straight toothed gears that sit parallel to the driveshaft. While great in series for substantial gear reductions, they are known to produce loud noise at high speeds due to the constant colliding and engaging between the gear teeth.

Did You Know…

We stock a large assortment of gear motors at Bauer GMC. Whether you’re looking for an economical solution for your right angle motor needs or are looking to go full-out on quality, we are sure to have the product for you. Get in touch to learn how we can tailor a power transmission solution for you!