Author(s)

B. AbeUaek, J. Flšaker & S. Glodt~

Abstract

Modern gears play an important role in high performance engineering, Fit-forpurpose design rules have emerged over generations of development. However, the rate of change has accelerated with the advent of modern computers and more thorough analysis techniques, coupled with a greater understanding of materials behaviour. Particular types of spur gears, as used in automobile gearboxes, have been studied in great detail using these latest developments, including the adverse effects on fatigue life due to non-designed characteristics. These comprise stress-raising features on or near the gear surfaces, and are usually due to contacting surfaces or stress concentrations which lead to cracklike failures. The paper reviews these features and illustrates them with practical examples. 1

Keywords