Gearbox (Worm Gearbox)
Gearbox (Worm Gear) Models: AB / D / SB-V / RK / 2CK / KB
A valve gearbox (also known as a valve reduction gearbox, gear operator, or worm gear) is a mechanical device that converts high-speed, low-torque input into low-speed, high-torque output through a gear transmission mechanism. It is primarily used to assist in valve operation under manual or powered drive.The core function of a gearbox (worm gear) is to increase output torque, allowing an operator to easily open or close large-diameter or high-pressure valves that require high torque with relatively low handwheel force. At the same time, through the design of the transmission ratio, the gearbox enables slow and smooth valve movement, avoiding impact damage to the sealing surfaces.Internally, it typically uses a worm gear or spiral bevel gear transmission pair.The worm gear mechanism has a self-locking characteristic (i.e., when the input side stops, the output side cannot be driven in reverse) and is widely used on gate valves, globe valves, butterfly valves, and ball valves.Spiral bevel gears offer higher efficiency and no self-locking, making them suitable for valves that require fast opening and closing.Installation types:Top-mounted: Directly connected to the valve stem.Side-mounted: Offset output to accommodate space constraints.The valve gearboxes produced by Kaivex Valve Group are widely used on large-diameter or high-pressure valves in industries such as petroleum, chemical, electric power, and water treatment. When selecting a gearbox, it is necessary to confirm the valve's torque requirements, transmission ratio, handwheel operating force, and ingress protection rating (e.g., IP65). Some high-end models can be connected to electric or pneumatic actuators for manual/automatic integrated switching.