Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the horsepower range?
GS NEMA Gearhead ratings are from 1/4 to 3 HP. The composite gear system has a wider range.

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2. What is a composite gear?
A pin gear is formed by mounting roller chain on a disc.

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3. What is the range of the GS NEMA gearhead reductions?
3:1 to 595:1. This range is not available elsewhere.

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4. Can these gears be reversed?
Yes, the pin gear construction can accept and transmit force from either direction. The cantilevered chain flexes, acting as a shock absorber. In addition, the roller, bushing and pin spread the force of the load over three different lubricating surfaces giving long life on applications where the load reverses.

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5. Can the unit operate vertically?
Yes, because it uses a sealed output bearing as the outboard bearing on the slow moving output shaft. All other bearings are exposed to lubricant, which is agitated by the composite gears, regardless of the mounting position.

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6. How are they lubricated?
Permanently lubricated at the factory. Severe duty installations can be vented

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7. Will the GS units leak?
O-Ring construction and two seals virtually eliminate leakage. Also, the output seal is inside the housing, protecting it from damage. Care must be exercised during aassembly/disassembly to protect against leakage.

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8. What happens if recommended torque is exceeded.
Limits are on tooth and chain shear strengths and GS design has a 700% safety factor. Moderate overloads simply increase the chain and sprocket wear. Wear will be evident by excessive noise.

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9. Is the unit noisy?
No. 69/72 decibels can be expected consistently. The GS composite gears chain component does not articulate when engagement takes place resulting in quiet operation.

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10. What about the backlash?
Cycloidal units measure 30 minutes. Planetary units as little as 15.

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11. What about efficiencies?
Except for differential units, efficiencies in the mid to high 90's can be expected from each stage of reduction. Differential units up to 100 to 1 continue to get readings from the 70's to low 80's. Ratios from 110:1 to 595:1 measure from the low 30's to low 60's.

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12. Is is self-locking?
No, except for differential unitsover 121:1.

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13. How does GS size compare with conventional units?
It is the lightest most compact unit on the market(example: a 56-C frame unit weighs 10 pounds and extends the motor length 4.35". All 21 sizes offer comparable weight and size advantages).

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14. How do they mount?
Face mounting is standard; foot mounting is available at no extra charge. Please check center distances before specifying.

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15. Is it available in right angle configuration?
No.

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16. Are there other savings available?
Yes, savings as high as $50.00 per unit on installation time have been achieved. Also the "spring back" cushions shock and extends motor life.

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17. How can I get on to try?
Complete the Survey, review and consider GS's recommendation and order a trial unit. Request a 60-day return privilege.

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