Selecting the right gearbox is crucial for ensuring the efficiency, reliability, and longevity of a conveyor system. Different conveyor layouts—horizontal, inclined, modular, or heavy-duty—demand specific gearbox types based on load, torque, orientation, and duty cycle. This guide simplifies gearbox options and where they work best.
Common Conveyor Gearbox Types & Applications Gearbox Type Features Best-Fit Applications Helical Gearbox High efficiency, inline shaft, smooth torque Long belt conveyors, production lines, packaging Bevel Helical Gearbox Right-angle with helical-bevel combination Inclined conveyors, bucket elevators, aggregate handling Worm Gearbox Compact, right-angle drive, self-locking Indexing conveyors, food-grade systems, compact setups Planetary Gearbox High torque density, compact multi-stage Mining, steel processing, heavy bulk conveyors Cycloidal Gearbox Shock-resistant, high reduction in small size Vibratory feeders, load-variable conveyors Parallel Shaft Helical High-load inline gearbox with parallel shafts Cement plants, airport baggage conveyors, heavy-duty runs Inline Helical-Bevel Gearmotor Integrated motor-gearbox unit, space-saving OEM modular conveyors, robotics, and packaging systems
Matching Gearbox Types with Conveyor Applications Conveyor Type Recommended Gearbox Why? Long Distance Belt Conveyor Helical or Parallel Shaft Helical Offers durability and high transmission efficiency Inclined or Vertical Conveyor Bevel Helical or Worm Delivers optimal torque at angles Mining/Heavy-Duty Systems Planetary or Bevel Helical Designed for high loads and impact conditions Bucket Elevators Worm or Bevel Helical Suits vertical load-bearing applications Light Roller Conveyors Inline Helical or Worm Compact, efficient for intermittent use Modular Plastic Belt Inline Helical-Bevel Gearmotor Sleek integration for automation environments Food-Grade Systems IP-rated Stainless Worm or Helical Ensures hygiene, washdown-compatible
Key Gearbox Selection Criteria
Load Nature : Continuous, fluctuating, or shock loadsRequired Torque : Based on conveyor length, material weight, and angleOutput Speed (RPM) : Needed for belt speed targetsMounting Orientation : Shaft-mounted, foot, or flangeSpace Limitations : Inline or right-angle configurationsDuty Cycle : Continuous or intermittent operationsEnvironmental Exposure : Dusty, corrosive, high-temp, or washdown zones
Pro Tip : For high-shock environments like crushers or vibratory feeders, cycloidal gearboxes outperform others in longevity.
Trusted Gearbox Manufacturers & Series Brand Notable Series SEW Eurodrive R (Helical), K (Bevel), S (Worm), P (Planetary) Bonfiglioli C Series (Helical), A Series (Bevel), W Series (Worm) Nord Drivesystems SK series Inline & Bevel gear motors Elecon Customized heavy-duty gearboxes Sumitomo Cyclo drive, planetary transmission systems
