Thermal power on variable speed driven gearboxes

[dvd]

It seems like the subject of calculating thermal(horse)power on gearboxes which are driven by variable speed motors is ignored by the gearbox manufacturers. Is there anyone involved in gearbox design who has dealt with this topic? On the one hand, it seems like the power which is dissipated as heat would be a maximum at full speed. However, when a gearbox runs at full speed it may not be running at high torque. Thus the generation of lost power may not be a maximum when speed is a maximum. Please comment if you have dealt with this issue.

 

[drawoh]

dvd,

My understanding about harmonic drive is that it is most efficient at maximum torque. This is because the friction torque is approximately constant. I would expect the heat put out by it to be constant, at constant speed, as well.

I would guess that a worm drive would behave the way you describe, above.

At least for smaller drive, manufacturers usually talk about efficiency. You can always call them and ask if they will map efficiency against their speed and torque.

JHG

 

[amorrison]

Search for posts on (car?)differential lubrication.
Strange things happen depending on rpm of the internal gears.