Some Deep Thinking on Gear Grinding

We stumbled across a paper online, titled "Optimization of the Gear Profile Grinding Process Utilizing an Analogy Process," by Christof Gorgels, Heiko Schlattmeier, and Fritz Klocke. The paper goes into the novel problems posed by the improving gearing materials and the need by gear manufacturers to cut costs in gear grinding.

In order to grind gears burn-free and as productively as possible, a better understanding of the process is required. This is especially important for gear profile grinding, due to the complex contact conditions between workpiece and grinding wheel. In this article, an analogy process and a process model will be presented in order to gain a closer look into the process. Finally, different process strategies will be analyzed using the presented process model in order to give examples for the use of the described calculations.

The paper goes into reasonably great detail in explaining and describing the process model in order to increase gear grinding efficiency and effectiveness. You can find the .pdf of the paper here.

Are You A Fan of 'How It's Made?'

If you are, then you should check out this video, from Machine Tool Systems. It's about CNC gear grinding. It even sports a cheesy/retro soundtrack to keep you enthused. It's definitely worth checking out.

AGMA Training Coming Next March

Don't forget to register for the annual Basic Training for Gear Manufacturing taking place March 10 through 14 at Daley College in Chicago. The training session is meant to help everyone the knowledge and productivity of everyone training. There will be classes offered in many fields of gearing:

• Gearing and nomenclature
• Principles of inspection
• Gear manufacturing methods
• Hobbing and shaping

The conference is aimed at gearing professionals with at least six month's experience. If you are a gear manufacturer, this is a great opportunity to get your employees trained to a high, uniform standard. The conference will cost $999 for American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA) members and $1,099 for non-members. Visit the AGMA website for more information.

A Tiny Transmission

We know that spur gears (also known as straight cut gears) are used in a variety of applications. They're not often used in auto transmissions, though. So check out this application of spur gearing: A two-speed transmission of the XRAY NT1 Raycer 1/10th Nitro Race Car. This radio-controlled car features precision spur gear for a two-speed power transmission.

The 2-speed transmission parts are installed on a precision-manufactured super-smooth 2-speed middle layshaft made from tough HUDY shaft steel, additionally heat treated for extra strength and long lifespan. The 2-speed gear adapter is CNC-machined from Swiss 7075 T6 for precise fitting of the 1-way bearing, allowing super-precise and wobble-free installation of spur gears. The high-quality German 1-way bearing is hand-ground before installation for maximum running precision and strength. The 2-speed adapter is manufactured from hardened steel.

It sounds like a pretty sweet radio car. I know I wouldn't mind getting one for Christmas this year.