Superfinishing large planetary gear systems
US8171637B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 31, 2007 |
| Grant date | May 8, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 28, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49467
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Disclosed herein is a new improved large planetary gear system used on the input stage of wind turbine power generators. This improved planetary gear system reduces or eliminates lubricant debris traditionally generated from the gear teeth, thereby eliminating an initiating source for bearing failure. To achieve these results, some and preferably all of the gear teeth within the planetary gear system are superfinished using chemically accelerated vibratory finishing to a surface roughness of approximately 0.25 micron or less. Several objects and advantages of the invention are to provide a gearbox with reduced metal debris, improved bearing life, reduced wear, reduced vibro-frictional noise, improved contact fatigue, improved fretting resistance, improved lubrication, to simplify the run-in process, and to enhance the durability and efficiency of the gearbox.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.