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A hypoid gearbox– what is that?

Hypoid gearboxes are special configurations of bevel gearboxes. In such gearboxes, the axes cross on two parallel planes.

In contrast to other bevel gearboxes, there is an axis offset here. Also important: In practice, the input shaft and output shaft can rotate in the same direction as well as in opposite directions.

The hypoid gearboxes found on the market have a design that generates an opposite direction of rotation.

What advantages do they have?

  • The main reason for using these gearboxes: The bevel pinion can work with a larger spiral angle due to the axis offset. This increases the total number of gear teeth engaged.
  • This in turn means that hypoid gearboxes can transmit more torque in the same space - compared to simple spiral gearing.
  • In addition, larger ratios are possible.
  • Hypoid gearboxes are characterized by very smooth running compared to right-angle gearboxes. However, they are not suitable for very high speeds.

Another special aspect: In hypoid gearboxes the gearing slides in the longitudinal direction. Special lubricating oils are required in this case. The reaction forces of the gearing are also high. So high, in fact, that tapered roller bearings have to be used. Only then is sufficient bearing service life guaranteed at common input speeds.


Where are hypoid gearboxes used?

Single-stage hypoid gearboxes have the advantage that ratios of 3:1 to 10:1 can already be realized with the bevel gear stage. If higher gear ratios are required, they are combined with a planetary gearing arrangement.

The high torque in conjunction with the sliding gearing generates higher friction in hypoid gearboxes. As a result, these gearboxes operate with relatively high losses. For this reason, they are often part of multi-stage gearboxes. Here, they usually serve as an output stage, because the speeds are lower and the torques higher.


Hollow shafts are a good match for hypoid gearboxes

One advantage of hypoid gearboxes is that their large ring gear diameter makes them particularly suitable for working with hollow shafts. This is practical if the output shaft needs to allow the passage of cables at the same time or if clamping sets are to be used.
Also interesting: With hypoid gearboxes, the torque is available at both output shafts, thus allowing the power of the gearbox to be split.


The advantages:

  • They can be used when space is limited.
  • They can handle high torques and operate very smoothly.
  • They are compact in design and can be combined with other types of gearboxes.
  • Their output shaft can also be in the form of a hollow shaft.

The disadvantages:

  • Their design is complex.
  • They have a lower efficiency than planetary gearboxes.
  • They are not suitable for high speeds.

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