This is a fundamental parameter in gear design that measures the effectiveness and correct interaction between the teeth. In essence, it represents the proportion of the area in which the tooth profiles of two gears overlap correctly during contact. An adequate contact ratio ensures uniform tooth contact during motion transmission, reducing wear and noise and improving overall system efficiency.
A correct contact ratio is essential to ensure effective motion transmission, to minimise noise and wear of the gears. Too low or too high a value can lead to defects in the mesh, causing vibrations, noise and accelerated wear of the gear teeth themselves.
The verification of the contact ratio involves geometric analyses and mathematical calculations that determine the adequacy of the contact area between the teeth. If this is inadequate, problems with noise, overheating and accelerated wear of the gears may occur, resulting in a reduction in the useful life of the mechanical transmission system.
