Bevel / Mitre
A bevel gear, also known as a mitre gear, is a type of gear that has teeth cut on a cone-shaped surface. It is used to transmit motion and power between intersecting or non-parallel shafts. Bevel gears are named so because the teeth are tapered or sloped, resembling the shape of a bevel.
Bevel gears are commonly classified into two types: straight bevel gears and spiral bevel gears.
Straight Bevel Gears: In straight bevel gears, the teeth are cut straight and taper towards the apex of the cone. They are used when the shafts intersect at a 90-degree angle. Straight bevel gears are often found in applications such as hand drills, printing presses, and different types of machinery.
Spiral Bevel Gears: Spiral bevel gears have teeth that are cut in a spiral pattern. This design provides smoother and quieter operation compared to straight bevel gears. Spiral bevel gears are commonly used in automotive differentials, marine propulsion systems, and heavy machinery where high torque and precision are required.
The key characteristics and advantages of bevel gears include:
- Angular Transmission: Bevel gears allow the transmission of motion and power between shafts that are not parallel but instead intersect at an angle.
- Torque Transfer: Bevel gears are capable of transferring high torque loads and transmitting power efficiently.
- Compact Design: Bevel gears have a compact structure, making them suitable for applications with limited space.
- Versatility: Bevel gears can be designed with different ratios and configurations to accommodate various applications and shaft orientations.
Some common uses of bevel gears include power tools, agricultural machinery, automotive systems, and industrial equipment. They are widely employed in applications that require the transfer of rotational motion and power between intersecting shafts at different angles.
In summary, a bevel gear is a type of gear with tapered teeth cut on a cone-shaped surface. It is used to transmit motion and power between intersecting or non-parallel shafts. Bevel gears can be either straight or spiral, each with its own advantages and applications.