A Review on Research of Gear Failures in Mechanical Equipment

• Published in: Journal of failure analysis and prevention Vol. 25; no. 2; pp. 612 - 648
• Main Authors: Li, Fukang, Ding, Ning, Song, Mingda, Zhong, Zhenqian, Liu, Long, Shen, Xiaomin, Xu, Huixia, Tian, Linan, Xu, Na, Guo, Weimin, Wu, Chi-Man Lawrence, Chen, Xiangfeng
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Materials Park Springer Nature B.V 01.04.2025
• Subjects: Failure analysis; Gears; Statistical analysis
• ISSN: 1547-7029; 1864-1245
• DOI: 10.1007/s11668-025-02131-9

Gears are an indispensable and important part of mechanical equipment. Sudden failure of gears will often cause catastrophic damage to mechanical equipment. Investigation of the modes, mechanics, and causes of gear failures is of great significance for industry safety. The present work reviews the literature on gear failures analyzed by researchers over the last two decades. The mode and mechanism of gear failures are summarized and organized systematically. The typical characteristics of gear failures are collected and compared. Statistical analysis is conducted on the mechanisms and reasons of gear failures. The general procedure for gear failure analysis such as macroscopic and microscopic investigations is also introduced to help readers understanding the failure analysis of gears. The purpose of this review is to provide references for the study of gear failures and propose effective suggestions to reduce the occurrence of gear failures.