Editorial Technical Reference

Planetary Gear Set

This page explains how Planetary Gear Set is classified within Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A compact, high-torque gear arrangement consisting of central sun gear, multiple planet gears, and outer ring gear.

Representative product image. Confirm appearance and specifications with the manufacturer.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Planetary Gear Set

Definition
A planetary gear set is a critical component within drive systems (servo motor & gearbox) that provides high torque transmission, compact size, and multiple speed ratios through its unique arrangement of gears. It enables precise motion control and power transmission in various industrial applications. The gear set typically includes a central sun gear, multiple planet gears mounted on a carrier, and an outer ring gear. Power is transmitted through the meshing of these gears, distributing load across multiple contact points for high torque capacity and efficiency. Planetary gear sets are used in applications requiring high reduction ratios in a compact footprint, such as robotics, machine tools, and conveyor systems. They offer design flexibility with various configurations, including single-stage and multi-stage arrangements, to achieve specific speed and torque requirements. The performance of a planetary gear set depends on factors such as gear material, heat treatment, manufacturing precision, and lubrication. Common materials include alloy steel and case-hardened steel, with bronze used for bushings. Key parameters include rated torque, gear ratio, efficiency, backlash, maximum input speed, operating temperature, noise level, surface hardness, weight, IP rating, and lubrication type. These values vary by size and configuration, so it is essential to verify model-specific specifications with the manufacturer. Standards such as ISO 1328 for backlash and ISO 3744 for noise measurement provide reference points for evaluation. Proper selection requires consideration of input speed, torque requirements, duty cycle, and environmental conditions. Regular maintenance, including lubrication checks and wear monitoring, is critical for reliable operation. Failure signs include abnormal noise, increased backlash, or overheating, indicating potential gear wear or misalignment. Always consult the supplier for detailed technical data and application guidance.
Working Principle
Power enters through the sun gear, which drives the planet gears orbiting around it. The planet gears mesh with both the sun gear and the stationary or rotating ring gear, creating multiple contact points for torque distribution. Different speed ratios are achieved by fixing different components (sun, carrier, or ring) while allowing others to rotate. This arrangement provides high torque multiplication and compactness.
Common Materials
Alloy Steel, Case-Hardened Steel, Bronze (for bushings)
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Rated Torque50–5000 N·mDepends on size and ratio
Gear Ratio3–100Single stage 3–10, multi-stage up to 100
Efficiency95–98 %Per stage
Backlash≤0.1 °Precision gradeISO 1328
Max Input Speed3000–10000 rpmDepends on size and lubrication
Operating Temperature-40–85 °CGrease dependent
Noise Level≤70 dB(A)At 1m, no loadISO 3744
Material20CrMnTiCase-hardened steelGB/T 3077
Surface Hardness58–62 HRCCase depth 0.5–1.5 mmISO 18265
Weight1–500 kgDepends on size and ratio
IP RatingIP54–IP65Sealed unitsIEC 60529
LubricationGreaseLife-lubricated or oil

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Sun Gear Part
    Central driving gear that transmits power to planet gears
    Material: Case-hardened alloy steel
  • Planet Gears Part
    Multiple gears that orbit around sun gear and mesh with ring gear
    Material: Case-hardened alloy steel
  • Planet Carrier
    Holds planet gears in position and transmits output torque
    Material: Alloy steel or aluminum
  • Ring Gear Part
    Outer stationary or rotating gear that meshes with planet gears
    Material: Case-hardened alloy steel

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Up to 100 bar
other spec: Max torque: 5000 Nm, Max speed: 6000 rpm
temperature: -40°C to 120°C
Media Compatibility
✓ Industrial lubricants ✓ Hydraulic fluids ✓ Clean air/gas
Unsuitable: Abrasive slurry environments
Sizing Data Required
  • Required torque output (Nm)
  • Input speed (rpm)
  • Required gear ratio

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Tooth pitting and spalling
Cause: Surface fatigue due to cyclic contact stresses exceeding material endurance limit, often accelerated by inadequate lubrication, misalignment, or overloading
Planetary carrier bearing failure
Cause: Excessive radial loads causing brinelling, or inadequate lubrication leading to overheating and premature wear, frequently from improper assembly or contamination
Maintenance Indicators
  • High-pitched whining or grinding noises during operation indicating gear mesh issues or bearing degradation
  • Visible metallic particles in lubricant oil analysis or excessive vibration readings on condition monitoring equipment
Engineering Tips
  • Implement strict contamination control protocols for lubricants and maintain proper filtration to ISO 4406 cleanliness codes specific to gearbox requirements
  • Use laser alignment tools during installation and perform regular thermal imaging inspections to detect early-stage misalignment or overheating issues

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ISO 1328-1:2013 Cylindrical gears - ISO system of flank tolerance classification DIN 3961:1978 Tolerances for cylindrical gear teeth ASTM A29/A29M-20 Standard Specification for Steel Bars, Carbon and Alloy, Hot-Wrought, General Requirements for

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Bore diameter: +/-0.01 mm
  • Tooth profile deviation: 0.02 mm
Quality Inspection
  • Gear tooth profile measurement using coordinate measuring machine (CMM)
  • Hardness testing (Rockwell C scale) for gear teeth surfaces

Manufacturers of Planetary Gear Set

3 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Shanghai Belon Machinery Co., ltd.
Shanghai, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Shanghai Michigan Machinery Co., Ltd.
Shanghai, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Sogears
Shandong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.
Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a planetary gear set used for?

A planetary gear set is used in drive systems to provide high torque transmission and speed reduction in a compact form. It is commonly found in servo motors, gearboxes, and various industrial machinery where precise motion control and high power density are required.

How do I select the right planetary gear set?

Selection depends on required torque, gear ratio, input speed, efficiency, backlash, and environmental conditions. You must verify these parameters with the manufacturer for your specific application, as values vary by size and configuration.

What materials are used in planetary gear sets?

Common materials include alloy steel and case-hardened steel for gears, with bronze for bushings. The specific material grade and heat treatment affect durability and performance, so confirm with the supplier.

What are common signs of failure?

Signs include abnormal noise, increased backlash, overheating, or vibration. These may indicate gear wear, misalignment, or lubrication issues. Regular maintenance and monitoring are essential to prevent failure.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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