worm gears

Threaded rotation converters

Worm gears are a type of gear arrangement where a threaded shaft (the worm) meshes with a toothed wheel (the worm wheel).

The configuration allows high gear reduction in compact space and transmits motion at right angles.

Worm gears appear in steering mechanisms, conveyor systems, and guitar tuning pegs.

They typically allow the worm to drive the wheel but not vice versa, making them self-locking.

mechanics

meshing

Interlocking in coordination

mechanical advantage · self-locking · backlash · drive · actuation · motion · interlock · turning · force · leverage

geometry

helix

Spiraling three-dimensional curve

  • spiralCurve winding around center
  • threadFiber for stitching
  • screwThreaded metal fastener

pitch · lead · groove · cylindrical · axial · coil · twist · angle · helical · threaded

performance

efficiency

Productive without waste

durability · power loss · heat dissipation · reliability · service life · grease

precision

accuracy

Degree of correctness

positioning · tuning · control · indexing · resolution · stability · tolerance · clearance · preload

components

housing

Dwellings or protective covering

coupling · mounting · keyway · oil seal

applications

elevators

Vertical passenger conveyances

rolling mills · jack screws · throttle control

Opposites
reversibility/back-driving capability

worm gearsrack and pinion

Toothed bar and gear

chain drive · belt drive

speed/torque ratio characteristics

worm gearsdirect drive

Transmission without intermediate gears

gears · 1

Family

gear, worm, gears, worms, geared, wormy, wormed, worming, gearing

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Rated G