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17 GEARBOX DEGRADATION
Gearbox is defined as a metal casing in which a train of
gears is sealed. Gearbox is also called gearhead, gear reducers or
speed reducers. They are available in broad range of sizes,
capacities and speed ratios. Their job is to convert the input
provided by a prime mover into an output of lower RPM and
correspondingly, higher torque.
Input and output configurations for gearboxes include
hollow shaft or coupling or bushing. A single input shaft can drive
multiple output shafts. The output shafts are usually parallel and
in-line. However, some unique configurations exist that allow for
offset shafts to be driven at different speeds. Some gearboxes are
supplied with a reaction arm. A reaction arm prevents the reducer
housing from rotating when there is no base mounts or flanges.
Shaft alignment can be parallel in-line, parallel offset, right angle
and non-perpendicular angled shafts.
Gearbox is intended to be incorporated in a transmission for
vehicles, particularly terrain vehicles, preferably driven by an
internal combustion engine.
Figure 17.1 – Gearbox
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