Gearbox Design Helps to Prevent Motor Shaft Slippage

We've had many customers call us and ask for a gearbox with a keyed input because they've had motor slipping issues while using other manufacturers' gearboxes.  These other gearboxes have a set screw design to connect to the motor shaft.  Depending on the type of set screw used, the set screw either presses against or penetrates the motor shaft to generate the holding force.  While there can be many factors that can contribute to the motor shaft slipping, having the holding force come from a single point isn't an optimal design.  A better option than a set screw or keyed connection uses a radial clamping collar.  

With this design, the radial clamping collar compresses the gearbox input shaft and evenly distributes the clamping force around the entire circumference of the motor shaft.  The gearbox input shaft is sliced in three locations to ensure a secure connection even if the motor shaft has a key slot with the key removed. 

Not only does the radial clamping connection generate higher clamping forces, but it won't mar the motor shaft like a set screw connection can.  And due to the design of the radial clamping collar, the gearbox input shaft has a smaller diameter, resulting in a lower moment of inertia compared to a gearbox with a set screw input.

This radial clamping design comes standard on all GAM inline planetary gear reducers even including the low cost PE series.

For more information on GAM gear reducers 

With the PACK EXPO 2012 trade show happening this week in Chicago, now is a great time to show off a few of the solutions that GAM is providing for some of our packaging and food processing customers. 

In the first example, our standard EPL gearbox has an anodized housing and anodized ring gear.  These modifications provide additional corrosion resistance and because standard EPL parts are used, none of the dimensions change. 

The next example is another EPL series gearbox with an anodized housing along with a stainless steel paint coating on the input housing and motor adapter.  The stainless steel coating provides further corrosion resistance at a low cost and quick turnaround. 

The third example is GAM’s SSP – stainless steel gearbox which provides the highest degree of corrosion resistance and protection for packaging and food processing applications.  Every part of the gearbox (housing, motor adapter, hardware, output shaft) is constructed of stainless steel.  The motor adapter can also be provided with an O-ring to further prevent contaminants from entering.  The gearbox is supplied standard with food grade lubrication that meets FDA 21 CFR 178.3570 requirements.  The lubrication is also USDA H1 authorized for use in federally inspected meat and poultry plants.  Click here for more information on our SSP series gearbox.

These three examples are just a small sample of the different levels of modifications that GAM can provide to our customers in the packaging and food processing industry.  (Further examples include epoxy coatings, stainless steel couplings (KG-VA), nickel plated housings, and special flanges to increase IP ratings). 

At GAM, we really understand that not every packaging or food processing application is the same.  For instance, if all you need is a gearbox with a stainless steel shaft, you shouldn't have to purchase a completely stainless steel gearbox which is more expensive.  GAM can take a standard gearbox and provide a stainless steel shaft quickly and cost effectively.  We are willing to learn about your application requirements and then provide a gearbox or coupling solution that meets your exact requirements.  Need assistance on your application?  Call us toll free at 888-GAM-7117 or email sales@gamweb.com