Planetary gearbox
Neugart PLE economy planetary gearbox
Economy in-line planetary gearbox with shaft output in frames 40 to 160 mm, ratios 3:1 to 512:1, maximum output torques up to 1,280 Nm and standard backlash from under 6 arcmin (series figures).
Key specifications
| Speed (max) | 18,000 rpm |
|---|---|
| Ingress protection | IP54 |
| Temperature | -25–90 °C |
| Rated torque (max) | 680 Nm |
| Peak torque (max) | 1,280 Nm |
| Frame sizes | 40, 60, 80, 120, 160 |
| Ratio | 3–512:1 |
| Backlash (max) | 22 arcmin |
| Efficiency | 92-98 % |
| Backlash | <6 to <22 arcmin standard, by size and stage |
Summarised in our own words from Neugart GmbH (Neugart Holding GmbH, family-owned)'s published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1
Notes on this data
torque_Nm_rated_max is the continuous T2D maximum (PLE160, two-stage); T2max is maximum torque. Max input speed 18,000 rpm applies to PLE040.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with Neugart GmbH (Neugart Holding GmbH, family-owned). Neugart and PLE economy planetary gearbox are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
Alternatives that meet or exceed these figures
Engineers often come to us with a Neugart part number and leave with an alternative that is easier to source, quicker to deliver or a better fit for the machine. These 3 series from our supply network are the closest match on published figures.
High-rigidity Wanshsin inline planetary with three backlash classes down to super-precision, for machine tools, automation and AGVs.
| Published maximum | PLE economy planetary gearbox | WSH |
|---|---|---|
| Rated torque | 680 Nm | 2,400 Nm meets or exceeds |
| Peak torque | 1,280 Nm | 7,200 Nm meets or exceeds |
| Ratio (max) | 512:1 | 100:1 |
| Backlash (lower is better) | 22 arcmin | 1.5 arcmin meets or exceeds |
Wanshsin inline planetary designed for high radial loads, offered in three precision classes.
| Published maximum | PLE economy planetary gearbox | WTH |
|---|---|---|
| Rated torque | 680 Nm | 2,050 Nm meets or exceeds |
| Peak torque | 1,280 Nm | 6,150 Nm meets or exceeds |
| Ratio (max) | 512:1 | 100:1 |
| Backlash (lower is better) | 22 arcmin | 1.5 arcmin meets or exceeds |
Apex Dynamics high-precision helical planetary with a one-piece stainless planet cage and very short length; ADS adds a keyed input shaft for belt pulley or coupling drive.
| Published maximum | PLE economy planetary gearbox | AD / ADR / ADS |
|---|---|---|
| Rated torque | 680 Nm | — |
| Peak torque | 1,280 Nm | — |
| Ratio (max) | 512:1 | — |
| Backlash (lower is better) | 22 arcmin | 1 arcmin meets or exceeds |
Figures are the highest published for each series and are not always measured the same way. A higher figure is not automatically a better choice: mounting, duty cycle, feedback, connectors and approvals matter too. An engineer will check the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What a planetary gearbox is
A planetary gearbox reduces speed and multiplies torque using a central sun gear driven by the motor, several planet gears on a carrier, and an outer ring gear. Load is shared between the planets, so the gearbox is compact, coaxial and torque-dense. A single stage typically gives ratios of about 3:1 to 10:1, and stages are combined for higher ratios. Precision servo planetaries use ground helical or spur gears, preloaded output bearings and a motor adapter flange, with backlash typically a few arcminutes or less.
When engineers choose a planetary gearbox
Choose a planetary gearbox for most servo and stepper axes that need more torque, lower reflected inertia or a better inertia match. It is efficient, typically above 95% per stage, stiff and widely available in standard frames. The trade-offs are backlash, which is low but not zero, and limited single-stage ratio. For zero backlash in a compact joint, a strain-wave gear suits better. For very high shock loads, a cycloidal reducer may be more robust.
How to specify the Neugart PLE economy planetary gearbox
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right PLE economy planetary gearbox variant or an equivalent:
- Ratio and output speed (:1, rpm)
- Nominal and peak output torque (Nm)
- Emergency stop torque (Nm)
- Backlash (arcmin) and torsional stiffness (Nm/arcmin)
- Radial and axial output loads (N)
- Motor flange, shaft diameter and length (mm)
- Duty cycle, mounting orientation and lubrication
Common mistakes to avoid
- Sizing on motor torque times ratio without checking acceleration torque and service factors
- Ignoring the input speed limit at high motor speeds
- Mounting a pulley or pinion that overloads the output bearing
- Forgetting the gearbox efficiency and heat in continuous duty
Neugart PLE economy planetary gearbox: frequently asked questions
What is the Neugart PLE economy planetary gearbox?
Economy in-line planetary gearbox with shaft output in frames 40 to 160 mm, ratios 3:1 to 512:1, maximum output torques up to 1,280 Nm and standard backlash from under 6 arcmin (series figures). Published series figures include speed 18,000 rpm, temperature -25 °C, temperature 90 °C, rated torque 680 Nm. It is made by Neugart GmbH (Neugart Holding GmbH, family-owned); Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the Neugart PLE economy planetary gearbox?
The Neugart PLE economy planetary gearbox is made by Neugart (Neugart GmbH (Neugart Holding GmbH, family-owned)) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with Neugart GmbH (Neugart Holding GmbH, family-owned); brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the speed of the Neugart PLE economy planetary gearbox?
The published series maximum speed is 18,000 rpm. Individual models and sizes in the PLE economy planetary gearbox range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
Is there an alternative to the Neugart PLE economy planetary gearbox?
Yes. On published figures, Wanshsin WSH and Wanshsin WTH are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
How do I choose a planetary gearbox ratio?
Start from the load speed and motor speed range, then check inertia matching and torque. A ratio that brings the reflected load inertia close to the motor inertia improves dynamics. Then confirm peak output torque during acceleration is within the gearbox rating and that input speed stays under the limit.
What backlash does a precision planetary gearbox have?
Precision servo planetary gearboxes typically have backlash from below one arcminute to several arcminutes, depending on grade and stages. Lower backlash costs more. For most positioning axes, a few arcminutes is fine; for robot joints or optics, strain-wave or zero-backlash designs are used.
Further reading: How to select a planetary gearbox · Harmonic vs planetary vs cycloidal · Gearboxes and harmonic drives
Other planetary gearbox series
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