Effects of Heat Treatment Techniques on the Fatigue Behaviour of Steel Gears: A Review

Abstract

Heat treatment of gears are fundamental to efficient and reliable gear production because of its contribution to the overall cost of manufacturing. Different heat treatment techniques are targeted to improving hardness, ductility and strength to minimize material degradation or wear. However, several heat treatment methods had led to gear tooth distortion such as shrinkage of tooth thickness which eventually affects the contact angle. The study therefore focused on some selected heat treatment on gears and their effects on gear applications. from the reviewed heat treatment techniques, distortion is a common occurrence that result to gear fatigue. Also, it was noted that most times, the medium for quenching and most importantly, variation in the concentration affects the gear accuracy. Thus, local fracture and material loss ensue. Nevertheless, the study further suggested the use of empirical model and simulation approach for stress prediction.