Gear shaping is a process used to create external and internal spur and helical gears, splines, serrations, and other tooth forms on cylindrical workpieces. This process is typically performed on dedicated machines, which are similar in function to lathes or milling machines. The cutting tool, called a shaper cutter, is mounted on a tool spindle that is positioned perpendicular to the workpiece axis. The shaper cutter rotates at high speed and feeds into the workpiece to create the desired tooth form. Shaping can be performed as a standalone operation or as part of a larger manufacturing process.

What is gear shaping?

It is a machining process for creating gear teeth on a cylindrical blank. A gear shaper is a special type of milling machine that cuts gear teeth on a rotating workpiece. This machining process can be used to create spur gears, helical gears, bevel gears, and worms.

 

The shaping process begins with a cylindrical blank that has been machined to the correct size and shape. The blank is mounted in a chuck on the gear shaper and rotated. A cutter with the same number of teeth as the desired gear is mounted in the shaper's head. The cutter is fed into the blank while it is being rotated, cutting away material to form the gear teeth.

 

It is a very versatile process and can be used to create gears with different numbers of teeth, shapes, and sizes. It is also possible to cut internal and external gearing using this method.

 

The process of gear shaping

It is performed by cutting teeth into the circumference of a workpiece. The cutter used for this process is called a gear shaper. Gear shapers are classified according to the type of tooth they cut: internal or external. External gear shapers cut teeth on the outside of a workpiece, while internal gear shapers cut teeth on the inside of a workpiece.

 

The most common type of gear shaping is hobbing. Hobbing is a process that uses a hob, which is a rotating cutter with teeth shaped like those of a gear. The hob cuts the teeth into the workpiece as it rotates. The cutter and workpiece rotate at the same speed, and the feed rate determines how much material is removed.

 

Hobbing can be done manually or automatically. Automatic hobbing machines are more common in production settings because they can produce gears more quickly and accurately than manual machines. However, manual hobbing machines are still used in some shops because they are less expensive than automatic machines.

Gear shaping is a process that takes a great deal of skill and practice to perfect. It's a complex process that involves a variety of tools and techniques, all of which must be executed with precision. The end result is a beautifully crafted piece of machinery that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. True Gear & Spline Ltd. is a leading name in the gear manufacturing industry. We use CNC machining for shaping and manufacturing different types of gear. Get in touch with us today to learn about everything we can do for you.