Centrifugaleffect on lubricant exerted on small or large gear

  • Thread starter klauspetersen
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Gear
In summary, when applying chain lubricant to two gears connected by a chain, it is better to apply it to the larger gear in order to minimize the amount of lubricant lost due to centrifugal force. This is because the larger gear exerts less centrifugal force on the lubricant, assuming the lubricant sticks equally to each gear.
  • #1
klauspetersen
1
0
Chain lubricant must be applied to two gears connected by a chain.

The two gears are of different size. The question is now, if it is better to apply the lubricant at the larger or smaller gear, if we wanted to minimize the amount of lubricant lost due to centrifugal force.

The math:

Centrifugal force:

F= V^2 / R

Since the two gears are connected by a chain, V should be the same. Therefore my math intuition says that the larger of the gears would exert less centrifugal force on the lubricant. Am i correct in this analysis?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Welcome to PF;
That sounds like safe reasoning for that question: you are saying that since the speed of the outer rim of each gear is the same (due to chain) then the centrifugal force is inversely proportional to the radius of each gear. Therefore: applying lube to the bigger cog minimizes the force. Assuming the lubricant sticks equally hard to each gear, this minimizes the potential loss of lubricant due to the centrifugal effect.
 

Related to Centrifugaleffect on lubricant exerted on small or large gear

1. How does the centrifugal effect impact lubrication on small gears?

The centrifugal effect can cause the lubricant to be forced out from between the small gears due to the high rotational speed. This can lead to increased friction and wear on the gears.

2. Is the centrifugal effect more significant on small or large gears?

The centrifugal effect is typically more significant on small gears because they have a smaller radius of rotation, which results in a higher centrifugal force.

3. How does the lubricant prevent the centrifugal effect on gears?

The lubricant acts as a barrier between the gears, preventing metal-to-metal contact and reducing friction. It also helps to disperse heat and debris caused by the centrifugal force.

4. What happens if there is not enough lubricant to counteract the centrifugal effect on gears?

If there is not enough lubricant, the gears can experience increased wear and damage due to the increased friction and heat generated by the centrifugal force. This can lead to premature failure of the gears.

5. Can the centrifugal effect on gears be eliminated completely?

No, the centrifugal effect cannot be completely eliminated, but it can be minimized by using the right type and amount of lubricant, as well as properly maintaining the gears and their rotational speed.

Similar threads

  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
19
Views
7K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
24
Views
6K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Classical Physics
Replies
8
Views
2K
Back
Top