Enter the number of teeth in the output gear and the number of teeth in the input gear into the Speed Ratio Calculator. The calculator will evaluate and display the Speed Ratio. 

Speed Ratio Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the Speed Ratio. 

SPR = OG / IG
  • Where SPR is the Speed Ratio
  • OG is the number of teeth in the output gear 
  • IG is the number of teeth in the input gear 

To calculate the speed ratio, divide the number of teeth in the output gear by the teeth in the input gear.

How to Calculate Speed Ratio?

The following example problems outline how to calculate Speed Ratio.

Example Problem #1:

  1. First, determine the number of teeth in the output gear.
    • The number of teeth in the output gear is given as: 30.
  2. Next, determine the number of teeth in the input gear.
    • The number of teeth in the input gear is provided as: 5.
  3. Finally, calculate the Speed Ratio using the equation above: 

SPR = OG / IG

The values given above are inserted into the equation below and the solution is calculated:

SPR = 30 / 5 = 6


FAQ

What is the significance of the Speed Ratio in gear systems?

The Speed Ratio in gear systems is crucial because it determines the mechanical advantage provided by the gears. A higher Speed Ratio means that the output gear rotates slower than the input gear but with more force, making it essential for applications requiring torque over speed.

Can the Speed Ratio be less than 1?

Yes, the Speed Ratio can be less than 1. This occurs when the output gear has fewer teeth than the input gear, resulting in the output gear rotating faster than the input gear. This setup is often used in applications where speed is prioritized over torque.

How does the Speed Ratio affect the efficiency of a gear system?

The Speed Ratio itself does not directly affect the efficiency of a gear system. However, it influences the choice of gears and their arrangement, which can impact the overall efficiency. Gears with a high Speed Ratio may require more energy to overcome friction and inertia, potentially reducing efficiency. Conversely, a well-chosen Speed Ratio can optimize performance and efficiency for the intended application.