Gearbox Server Success Story

Challenge

A data security customer that builds intelligent tape libraries for archived, tiered storage workflows was seeking a compact linear actuator solution. The customer’s tape libraries efficiently move data tapes from the storage location to a tape reader.

The linear actuator was a belt driven product and as a result needed a gearbox for a better inertial match between their motor and their load. This would result in the tape reader’s system being responsive, accurate, and fast when moving tapes from point A to B.

Due to the motor’s small stature, its torque was limited. As a result, the gearbox efficiency needed to be greater than its standard.

Solution

Working with the customer to match Parker’s product offering to their application requirements, a customized RS Series - Gen II Stealth High Precision Right-Angle Helical Planetary Gearhead offered the following:

• A right angle 60mm frame size gearbox with a mounting kit to adapt directly to customer’s motor, satisfying their requirement for a compact solution. 

• A 40:1 gear ratio providing an inertia match between the motor and load to less than 10:1, resulting in a stiff, responsive, and accurate solution for moving the tapes from point A to B. 

• A gearbox input modifi cation offering a low start-up torque not to exceed .15 Nm. This feature allows the chosen motor to have enough power to efficiently drive the application.

Other customer requirements fulfilled by Parker included custom lubrication, a custom product label for their own internal tracking, along with a single part number for both the gearbox and mounting kit for ease of ordering.