Spur Gear VS Helical Gear
Spur Gear
Spur gears are the most common type of gear and the simplest. They have straight teeth parallel to the axis of the gear. Since they have the simplest design, they are the easiest to design and manufacture and therefore the most economical type of gear. Spur gears are not known to be the smoothest or quietest gears, but they are efficient and produce a lot of power. They run well at low to medium speeds, but at higher speeds, they tend to vibrate and make noise.
✔ Teeth are straight and aligned parallel to the shaft.
✔ Operates with minimal sliding, leading to high efficiency.
✔ Best suited for low-speed and low-load applications.
Helical Gear
The teeth of the helical gear are at an angle to the gear shaft. Because the teeth mesh more slowly, they run smoother and quieter than spur gears. Helical gears also have greater tooth strength and higher load-carrying capacity. In addition, helical gears can transmit power between parallel or non-parallel shafts, while spur gears can only transmit power between parallel shafts. The disadvantage of helical gears is that they produce axial thrust that needs to be accounted for; something that spur gears don't need.
✔ Teeth are cut at an angle to the gear's axis, forming a helix.
✔ Overlapping teeth results in smoother and quieter operation.
✔ Suitable for high-speed and high-load applications.
Difference Between Spur Gear VS. Helical Gear
| Helical Gear | ||
| Gear Design & Tooth Shape | Straight, parallel teeth | Angled teeth are arranged in a spiral. Reduces friction and enables smoother operation. |
| Efficiency & Performance | Spur gears boast higher efficiency due to their simple design and minimal sliding. | Helical gears excel in performance under heavy loads and high-speed conditions. |
| Noise & Vibration Levels | Spur gears generate more noise and vibration because their teeth engage abruptly. | Helical gears, with their gradual engagement, operate much more quietly. |
Load Capacity & Durability | Durable | More durable and capable of handling greater loads compared to spur gears. |
Advantage | Simplicity and Cost-Effectiveness High Efficiency in Low-Speed Applications | Smooth and Quiet Operation Greater Load-Carrying Capacity |
CTS | Professional Gear Manufacturer
With years of experience, CTS has extensive engineering and manufacturing capabilities to provide unique solutions to your gear manufacturing problems.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us, CTS® professional technicians will be happy to help you!
FAQ About Gears
What is the main difference between spur gears and helical gears?
The primary difference lies in the tooth design: spur gears have straight teeth, while helical gears have angled teeth arranged in a helix pattern.
Which gear type is better for high-speed applications?
Helical gears are better suited for high-speed applications due to their smooth and quiet operation.
How do I determine the right gear type for my project?
Consider factors like speed, load, noise tolerance, and budget. Consulting a gear manufacturer can provide clarity and guidance.
