1. What is a Gear Speed Ratio Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the gear speed ratio (GSR) between input and output rotational speeds in a gear system.

Purpose: It helps mechanical engineers, technicians, and hobbyists understand and design gear systems by calculating the speed relationship between connected gears.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( GSR \) — Gear Speed Ratio (unitless)
• \( RPM_{in} \) — Input rotational speed (revolutions per minute)
• \( RPM_{out} \) — Output rotational speed (revolutions per minute)

Explanation: The ratio shows how many times the input shaft must rotate to produce one full rotation of the output shaft.

3. Importance of Gear Speed Ratio

Details: Gear ratios are crucial for designing systems that require specific speed and torque relationships, such as transmissions, gearboxes, and mechanical drives.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the input and output RPM values (both must be greater than 0). The calculator will determine the speed ratio between them.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does a GSR of 2:1 mean?
A: A 2:1 ratio means the input shaft rotates twice for every one rotation of the output shaft (speed reduction).

Q2: How is gear ratio related to torque?
A: Higher gear ratios (speed reduction) increase output torque proportionally, while lower ratios (speed increase) decrease torque.

Q3: Can I use this for pulley systems too?
A: Yes, the same principle applies to belt and pulley systems where diameter ratios determine speed relationships.

Q4: What if my output RPM is higher than input?
A: The calculator will show a ratio less than 1, indicating a speed increase (output faster than input).

Q5: How do I calculate gear teeth from this ratio?
A: For simple gear trains, the ratio equals the number of teeth on the output gear divided by the input gear teeth.