In the modern crane manufacturing industry, the reducer is recognized as the core component of the transmission system. It is not only an important link in power transmission, but also the key to ensuring the operating efficiency, safety and reliability of the lifting equipment.

The basic definition and principle of reducer

Reducer, in layman's terms, is a mechanical device that "decelerates + increases force". Its working principle is based on the gear meshing law of mechanical transmission:

High-speed input → gear meshing deceleration → low-speed high-torque output

Through a combination of multi-stage gears or worm gears, the speed is gradually reduced and the torque is gradually amplified.

For example

An electric motor outputs a speed of 1500 rpm. After passing through a reducer with a reduction ratio of 30:1, the output speed becomes 50 rpm, and the output torque increases by 30 times (in theory, there will be a slight loss in efficiency in reality).

The reducer is mainly composed of the following parts:

• High-strength gear sets (helical gears, spur gears, bevel gears, planetary gears, etc.)

• Bearings and shaft systems (support and transmission)

• Sealing and lubrication systems (prevent leakage and reduce wear)

• Box structure (support and protection)

The core application of reducer in crane

1. Hoisting mechanism reducer

• Working requirements: low speed and high torque output, able to withstand frequent starting and impact loads

• Typical types: hardened gear reducer or planetary gear reducer

• Combined use: Hoisting motor + brake + drum

• Application examples: Double-beam bridge crane hoisting trolley, heavy metallurgical crane

Implementation principle:

The lifting motor outputs at high speed → the reducer decelerates and increases the force → the drum drives the wire rope to lift the heavy object

2. Reducer for trolley and carriage operation

• Working requirements: Smooth operation, sensitive starting and braking, and bidirectional operation

• Typical type: Three-in-one drive device (motor + reducer + brake)

• Application examples: Bridge crane trolley drive, gantry crane trolley operation

Implementation principle:

Drive motor starts → reducer reduces speed and increases power → transmission shaft or wheel side drive wheel → crane runs

3. Slewing mechanism reducer

• Working requirements: high-precision positioning, impact load resistance, and the ability to achieve forward and reverse rotation

• Typical types: planetary reducer, worm gear reducer

• Application examples: tower crane slewing mechanism, port crane slewing device

Implementation principle:

Slewing motor → planetary reducer → large gear ring or slewing bearing → equipment rotation

The reducer is not only the "power converter" of the crane, but also an important guarantee for the safe, efficient and long-life operation of the equipment. Understanding the principle and application of the reducer will help enterprises select and users maintain, thereby improving the competitiveness of the overall lifting system.

BTARO has always been committed to providing high-quality lifting equipment and supporting transmission solutions to users around the world, helping users in various industries to produce safely and operate efficiently.