A gear motor is an all-in-one combination of a motor and gearbox. The addition of a gearbox to a motor reduces the speed while increasing the torque output. The most important parameters in regard to gear motors are speed (rpm), torque (lb-in) and efficiency (%). Right-angle gear motors consist of an electric motor integrated with a gear reducer that has an output shaft perpendicular to its input shaft. This type of gear motor is preferred for automated equipment where the space is very limited and the torque requirements are high.
The term ‘DC motor’ is used to refer to any rotary electrical machine that converts direct current electrical energy into mechanical energy. DC motors can vary in size and power from small motors in toys and appliances to large mechanisms that power vehicles, pull elevators and hoists, and drive steel rolling mills. Gear motors function as torque multipliers and speed reducers thus requiring less power to move a given load. The design of the gearbox structure, type of gears, lubrication and type of coupling affects its performance.
A right angle gearbox is one in which the input shaft and the output shaft meet at a 90o angle. This configuration allows for torque to be transmitted from one axis to a perpendicular axis—using rotation to transfer power. A worm gear drive is a right-angle drive as is a bevel gear. A spur gear drive is inline. A helical gear is inline but may also be a right-angle drive.
