Mechanical Efficiency
Mechanical Efficiency
(OP)
hi everyone;
My company just started an initiative to improve the Efficiency and Performance of our processes. I am performing the analysis of the human factors and equipment factors and how they are related each other in the process. One of the aspects I need to consider is the Mechanical Efficiency of our equipment and tools. Is anyone familiar with this kind of analysis?
My company just started an initiative to improve the Efficiency and Performance of our processes. I am performing the analysis of the human factors and equipment factors and how they are related each other in the process. One of the aspects I need to consider is the Mechanical Efficiency of our equipment and tools. Is anyone familiar with this kind of analysis?





RE: Mechanical Efficiency
- plastic instead of metal gears in drives if allowable;
- reduced viscosity lubes in drives;
- spur gears instead of worm;
- examine kinematics for opportunities for improvement. A poorly designed linkage system can increase loads considerably.
RE: Mechanical Efficiency
RE: Mechanical Efficiency
http://www.osmec.com/SmartSoft/SOFTWARE....
RE: Mechanical Efficiency
We have found that when a plastic gear (acetal, nylon, e.g.) is substituted for metallic, the efficiency goes up, and the prime mover needs to be downgraded to maintain reasonable stall torque. There is a smoother contour in plastic gears, and they have self-lubricity. In addition, contact ratios tend to improve with flexible plastics. This is particularly important in automotive worm drives.
RE: Mechanical Efficiency
RE: Mechanical Efficiency
As far as plastic goes I have found that most gearboxes that have a plastic gear are gear limited. This means you end up with a bigger motor for less torque output and a good chance to strip the gear when a jam occurs. Plastic gears are great in the right application just be carefull.
When sizing drives try to find the actual torque and speed you need instead of just going by horsepower inupt. Some worms gears are only 40% efficient so you may be able to use half the motor. Also some gearboxes with plastic gears are limited to 20% of possible torque so you may be able to use a much smaller motor.
Barry
RE: Mechanical Efficiency
Plastic gears as molded exhibit no tool marks in general. This contributes to higher efficiency. The factor of self lubricity is important. Most of the time that gears are in engagement they are sliding one upon the other. A synergistic combination is acetal against nylon, according to DuPont.