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A planetary gearbox, also known as an epicyclic gearbox, is a mechanical device used to transmit power and motion efficiently through a compact and high-torque design. It is widely used in various applications such as industrial machinery, robotics, automotive systems, and aerospace due to its durability, compactness, and ability to handle high torque loads.
A planetary gearbox is a type of gear system that consists of three main elements working together in a compact, efficient design. The name "planetary" comes from the way the gears are arranged — similar to planets orbiting around a sun. Here's a detailed breakdown of its core components:
The sun gear is located at the center of the gearbox.
It is typically the input gear, meaning it receives the initial power from the motor or driving source.
This gear meshes directly with the surrounding planet gears.
These are three or more small gears arranged around the sun gear.
They rotate both on their own axes and around the sun gear — just like planets orbiting the sun.
Planet gears are mounted on the planet carrier and also mesh with the inner teeth of the ring gear.
They distribute the load evenly, making the system durable and efficient.
The planet carrier holds the planet gears in place.
It is often used as the output shaft in many gearbox configurations.
The carrier rotates as the planet gears orbit the sun gear, transferring motion and torque to the output.
This is a large outer gear with internal teeth that surrounds the entire planetary system.
It meshes with all the planet gears.
Depending on the design, the ring gear can be stationary, the input, or the output.
Bearings: To reduce friction and support smooth rotation of all gears.
Seals: To protect the gears from dust, dirt, and leakage of lubrication.
Lubrication System: Ensures minimal wear and tear for high-speed or heavy-duty applications.
A planetary gearbox functions through the coordinated movement of three primary gear components: the sun gear, planet gears, and the ring gear. This unique arrangement allows the system to deliver high torque, smooth power transmission, and compact performance — ideal for a wide range of industrial and mechanical applications.
At its core, a planetary gearbox works by distributing input power from one gear (usually the sun gear) to multiple planet gears. These planet gears then rotate around the sun gear and transfer torque to either the planet carrier or the ring gear, depending on the configuration. This design ensures that torque is shared evenly across multiple points, making the gearbox highly efficient and durable.
Receives power from the motor or engine.
Transmits motion to the surrounding planet gears.
Rotate around the sun gear while also spinning on their own axes.
Share the torque load equally.
Engage with both the sun gear and the inner teeth of the ring gear.
Fixed or rotating outer gear that meshes with the planet gears.
Can serve as the input, output, or remain stationary depending on the setup.
Holds the planet gears in place.
Transfers the rotational motion to the output shaft.
Often used as the output in speed-reduction applications.
The behavior of a planetary gearbox depends on which component is held stationary and which serves as input and output. Here are the three most common configurations:
Function: Speed reduction with high torque output.
How it Works: The sun gear drives the planet gears, which revolve around the fixed ring gear. The rotating planet carrier delivers the output.
Application: Industrial machines, conveyors, cranes.
Function: Speed increase with lower torque.
How it Works: The carrier rotates the planet gears around the stationary sun gear, causing the ring gear to spin faster.
Application: Automotive transmissions, turbine systems.
Function: Torque multiplication with reverse direction.
How it Works: The ring gear drives the planet gears, which rotate around the fixed sun gear and push the carrier to rotate in the opposite direction.
Application: Robotics, material handling, hoists.
Load Distribution: Because the load is spread across multiple gears, there’s less stress on individual components.
High Efficiency: Minimal power loss due to even gear engagement and balanced force transmission.
Compact Size: The coaxial gear arrangement allows for more power in less space.
Multiple Ratios: Gear ratios can be easily changed by altering which gear is fixed, driving, or driven.
High Torque Output in Small Space
Smooth and Stable Motion
Reversible Operation
Scalable and Modular for Different Loads
A planetary gearbox works by precisely coordinating the rotation of multiple gears, offering an intelligent design that maximizes power, space, and efficiency. Its versatility makes it a top choice in fields ranging from automotive engineering to industrial automation.
Coaxial Design: All shafts (input and output) are aligned on the same axis, saving space.
Load Distribution: Multiple planet gears share the load, enhancing durability.
Scalability: Additional gear stages can be added to increase torque or reduce speed.
The structure of a planetary gearbox is engineered for maximum performance, space efficiency, and mechanical strength, making it ideal for applications that demand precision, high torque, and compact size.
Planetary gearboxes play a critical role in various industrial applications, offering high torque density, compact design, and superior efficiency. India has emerged as a global hub for gearbox manufacturing, with several companies delivering world-class solutions to both domestic and international clients. Below is a comprehensive and detailed list of the Top 25 planetary gearbox manufacturers in India, providing in-depth insights into their company profiles, main products, and competitive advantages.
Established in 1951, Elecon Engineering is a pioneer in the mechanical transmission segment with a robust presence in India and abroad.
Planetary gearboxes
Helical and bevel gearboxes
Worm gearboxes
ISO-certified production
Advanced R&D facilities
Strong export network in over 60 countries
An Indian subsidiary of Italian giant Bonfiglioli, this planetary gearbox manufacturer has a strong manufacturing base in Chennai.
Planetary gearboxes
Precision gearboxes
Industrial gearmotors
Italian design with local production
High-precision manufacturing
Extensive after-sales service
Premium Transmission is a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer and has been a leading name since 1961, catering to various industrial sectors.
Planetary gearboxes
Industrial gearboxes
Geared motors
Custom-engineered solutions
Pan-India distribution
Strong technical expertise
Part of the Murugappa Group, Shanthi Gears is a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer and known for its engineering excellence and innovation.
Planetary gearboxes
Worm and helical gearboxes
Couplings and gear assemblies
Focus on quality control
ISO and API certifications
Quick turnaround and delivery
Based in Mumbai, PBL is a division of the esteemed Radicon Powerbuild Group, a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer.
High torque planetary gearboxes
Inline and right-angle variants
Custom solutions
German collaboration
Modular design
Long operational lifespan
With headquarters in Satara, Maharashtra, Top Gear is a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer and specializes in designing and manufacturing transmission products.
Planetary gearboxes
Custom gear drives
Shaft-mounted gearboxes
Focus on innovation
Cost-effective engineering
In-house testing labs
A niche player, Elemech Engineers is a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer and known for tailored gearbox manufacturing for industrial applications.
Planetary gearboxes
Servo gear drives
Agitator gearboxes
Compact design solutions
Fast delivery timelines
High repeatability and efficiency
Operating from Ahmedabad, Janson Transmission is a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer and offers a complete range of gearboxes and mechanical drives.
Planetary gearboxes
Worm and helical gearboxes
Custom reduction gears
Industry-grade durability
Scalable designs
Competitive pricing
SM Transmission is a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer in the mechanical power transmission sector with expertise in planetary systems.
Planetary gearboxes
Spiral bevel gearboxes
Precision motion control units
CNC precision manufacturing
High torque output
Maintenance-friendly systems
With a legacy spanning over 50 years, Bharat Gears is one of India’s leading planetary gearbox manufacturer.
Planetary gearboxes
Axle and transmission gears
Drive assemblies
Large-scale manufacturing
Global client base
Certified processes
Kavitsu is a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer and renowned for developing energy-efficient and technologically advanced gear systems.
Planetary gearboxes
Slew drives
Industrial automation drives
Patented designs
Wide product range
High load-bearing capacity
An ISO 9001:2015 planetary gearbox manufacturer, Saini Engineering offers specialized gear solutions from its facility in Delhi.
Planetary gearboxes
Marine gear units
Cement plant gearboxes
Focus on metallurgy
Robust after-sales support
Technological integration
Based in Faridabad, Reva Industries is a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer and delivers durable and customizable gearbox solutions for OEMs.
Planetary gearboxes
Custom gear assemblies
Gear reducers
Experienced engineering team
Short lead times
Flexible manufacturing
A trusted planetary gearbox manufacturer of mechanical power transmission components from Gujarat.
Planetary gearboxes
Shaft-mounted speed reducers
Industrial coupling devices
Quality-centric processes
Timely delivery
Expert client support
A Bangalore-based planetary gearbox manufacturer offering end-to-end solutions in motion control and mechanical power transmission.
Planetary gearboxes
Automation gears
Compact gear drives
Modular architecture
CAD-aided design
Precision manufacturing
Known for heavy-duty and high-load transmission systems, Triveni is a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer and caters to power and industrial sectors.
Planetary gearboxes
High torque gearboxes
Multistage drives
Engineered for endurance
Excellent load distribution
Extensive R&D
JS Gears is a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer and has carved a niche in gearbox manufacturing for high-end industrial machinery.
Planetary gearboxes
Vertical and horizontal gearboxes
Special-purpose gear systems
Low noise operation
Efficient power transfer
Highly customizable
Based in Udaipur, Agnee Transmissions is a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer and focuses on quality planetary gearboxes suited for various industries.
Planetary gearboxes
Gear motors
Inline drives
Technological collaboration
Quick adaptation to trends
High torque-to-weight ratio
Apex Precision is a global planetary gearbox manufacturer with presence in multiple continents, delivering high-precision gearboxes.
Planetary gearboxes
Servo gear heads
Robotics drive gearboxes
Backlash-free design
Smooth motion transmission
Compact form factor
A Pune-based planetary gearbox manufacturer serving key industries like mining, automation, and energy.
Planetary gearboxes
Worm gear units
Servo drives
Low maintenance
Superior material strength
Technical consultation
A rapidly growing planetary gearbox manufacturer known for its innovative gearbox solutions.
Planetary gearboxes
Bevel-helical gearboxes
Customized drive systems
Cost-effective production
Advanced automation integration
24/7 client support
Headquartered in Chennai, Involute Powergear is a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer and delivers powerful and high-efficiency gear systems.
Planetary gearboxes
Helical-bevel gearboxes
Speed reducers
Proven reliability
Industrial-grade strength
Technical collaboration with OEMs
Dynamic Drives is a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer and specializes in precision engineering and compact gear solutions.
Planetary gearboxes
Servo gearboxes
Low backlash drives
Compact and lightweight
Noise-free operation
Fast shipping
This brand is a leading planetary gearbox manufacturer and offers innovative gear solutions with a strong focus on product lifecycle management.
Modular planetary gearboxes
Motion control gear units
Servo-integrated gears
International design standards
ISO 9001:2015 certified
Customer-first approach
A Noida-based planetary gearbox manufacturer of high-torque gearboxes for industrial automation and robotics.
High-efficiency planetary gearboxes
Compact gear heads
Servo planetary gearboxes
Tailored designs
High positional accuracy
Efficient torque delivery
Planetary gearboxes, also known as epicyclic gearboxes, are renowned for their compact design, high torque capacity, and superior efficiency. Their unique gear arrangement offers a range of benefits that make them ideal for demanding applications across industries like robotics, aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and renewable energy.
Below are the key advantages that make planetary gearboxes a top choice in mechanical power transmission systems:
One of the most significant advantages of planetary gearboxes is their ability to deliver high torque in a small package.
Multiple planet gears share the load simultaneously, allowing the system to handle higher torque without increasing the gearbox size.
This is particularly useful in applications where space and weight are limited, such as drones, robotic arms, and electric vehicles.
Due to the coaxial arrangement of the sun, planet, and ring gears, planetary gearboxes offer a high power-to-size ratio.
This compact structure enables their use in equipment where installation space is restricted.
They are widely used in medical devices, camera systems, and automation equipment where precision and space constraints are critical.
The design ensures that torque and forces are distributed evenly across all planet gears.
This minimizes wear and tear on individual gears and enhances the overall lifespan of the gearbox.
Better load sharing also translates into reduced maintenance costs over time.
Planetary gearboxes offer efficiency levels of up to 97–98% in single-stage models.
Their design reduces friction and backlash, making them suitable for precision tasks.
This high efficiency ensures minimal energy loss, resulting in cost-effective performance over long periods.
Planetary gearboxes can be designed with multiple gear stages, offering a wide range of gear ratios.
This makes them flexible enough to meet different torque and speed requirements.
Whether for speed reduction or torque multiplication, these gearboxes can be adapted for virtually any application.
The continuous engagement of multiple gear teeth leads to smooth transmission of motion and significantly reduced vibration and noise.
This makes planetary gearboxes a preferred choice in noise-sensitive environments such as laboratories, hospitals, and offices.
Because the torque is split among multiple gears, planetary gearboxes can absorb sudden load impacts better than conventional gearboxes.
They offer greater mechanical stability and robustness, making them suitable for heavy-duty and dynamic applications such as mining machinery, construction equipment, and wind turbines.
Planetary gearboxes can be installed in various orientations and configurations, enhancing their usability across different machinery designs.
Their adaptability makes them ideal for vertical, horizontal, or even inclined mounting positions.
These gearboxes are designed to function in both rotational directions, providing greater flexibility in mechanical control systems.
This is particularly useful in applications like conveyor systems and automated positioning equipment.
Planetary gear systems are often built with a modular architecture, allowing for easy customization and scalability.
Manufacturers can modify gear stages, output shafts, and motor flanges without redesigning the entire system, reducing development time and costs.
| Advantage | Benefit |
|---|---|
| High Torque Density | More torque in smaller size |
| Compact Design | Saves space in installations |
| Load Distribution | Longer service life and durability |
| High Efficiency | Energy savings and precision |
| Flexible Gear Ratios | Tailored performance |
| Quiet Operation | Suitable for noise-sensitive areas |
| Shock Load Resistance | Robust under pressure |
| Mounting Versatility | Easy to integrate |
| Reversible Operation | Greater control |
| Modular Scalability | Customizable for varied needs |
In conclusion, planetary gearboxes offer unmatched efficiency, durability, and versatility, making them indispensable across a broad spectrum of modern mechanical systems. Whether you're designing for precision control or heavy-duty torque transmission, a planetary gearbox provides a smart and reliable solution.
Planetary gearboxes are highly versatile and widely used in a broad range of industries due to their compact size, high torque capacity, and exceptional efficiency. Their unique gear arrangement makes them ideal for both precision control and heavy-duty power transmission. Below are the most common and impactful applications of planetary gearboxes across various sectors:
Automatic Transmissions: Planetary gear systems are at the heart of many automatic transmission systems. They provide smooth shifting, compactness, and reliability.
Electric Vehicles (EVs): Due to the need for high torque in small spaces, planetary gearboxes are commonly used in EV drivetrains.
Differentials and Axle Systems: Planetary gearsets help in distributing torque between wheels while allowing them to rotate at different speeds during turns.
Precision Motion Control: Planetary gearboxes are used in robotic arms, CNC machines, and actuators, where precise movement and low backlash are critical.
Servo Motor Gearboxes: Integrated with servo motors, these gearboxes offer exact positioning and fast response times, perfect for automated assembly lines.
Flight Control Systems: In aircraft, planetary gearboxes play a role in flap systems, landing gear, and actuation mechanisms.
Helicopter Transmissions: Their ability to handle high torque loads in a compact space makes them ideal for helicopter main rotor and tail rotor drive systems.
Wind Turbine Gearboxes: Planetary gear systems are key in increasing the rotational speed of wind turbine blades before connecting to the generator.
These gearboxes are built to withstand heavy loads, shock vibrations, and extreme weather conditions for long periods.
Excavators, Cranes, and Loaders: Planetary gearboxes are embedded in the wheel drives, winches, and swing mechanisms to provide durable, torque-rich performance.
Mining Equipment: Their rugged design helps in handling intense forces and harsh environments found in mining operations.
Conveyors, Hoists, and Elevators: Planetary gearboxes are crucial in driving these systems with smooth motion, high torque, and load-bearing capacity.
Packaging Machinery: Used for precise, continuous, and repeatable operations in high-speed packaging lines.
Surgical Robots and Imaging Devices: Require quiet, compact, and precise gear systems, which planetary gearboxes deliver flawlessly.
Prosthetic Devices: Lightweight and efficient planetary gear mechanisms help in motorized prosthetics to mimic natural joint movement.
Propulsion Systems: Planetary gearboxes are used in thrusters, winches, and steering gear of ships and boats for smooth, powerful control.
Deck Machinery: Includes anchor handling, cranes, and capstans, all of which benefit from the robust torque delivery of planetary gear systems.
Planetary gearboxes enable high-speed operation and precise control for equipment used in printing presses, embroidery machines, and looms.
They help maintain consistent tension, accuracy, and synchronization across different machine parts.
Used in tractors, harvesters, and sprayers, planetary gearboxes provide the durability and torque required for rugged field operations.
Their compactness allows for easy integration in complex farm machinery designs.
Besides wind turbines, planetary gearboxes are used in solar tracking systems, helping panels follow the sun's movement efficiently.
Gearboxes in rail drives and door operating systems benefit from the smooth torque delivery and compact nature of planetary designs.
They're built to handle high loads with minimal maintenance.
| Industry | Application |
|---|---|
| Automotive | Transmissions, EV drives, differentials |
| Industrial Automation | Robotics, CNC machines, servo systems |
| Aerospace | Helicopter drives, actuation systems |
| Wind Energy | Turbine gearboxes |
| Heavy Machinery | Cranes, excavators, mining trucks |
| Material Handling | Hoists, conveyors, elevators |
| Medical | Surgical robots, prosthetics |
| Marine | Thrusters, winches, ship deck machinery |
| Printing/Textile | Presses, looms, embroidery machines |
| Agriculture | Tractors, harvesters, irrigation systems |
| Railways | Drive systems, automatic doors |
Planetary gearboxes are an essential component in modern mechanical systems. Their strength, efficiency, and adaptability make them suitable for both precision tasks and heavy-duty operations, establishing them as a cornerstone in nearly every engineering sector.
India's planetary gearbox manufacturing ecosystem is growing at a rapid pace, driven by engineering innovation, quality manufacturing, and global exports. From large conglomerates to specialized niche players, the industry offers a rich variety of choices to meet the most demanding industrial requirements.
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