Planetary gearbox
APEX Dynamics GL / GLS planetary gearbox
Apex Dynamics AGV planetary with a rotating housing so a drive wheel or pulley can mount directly over it; GLS takes shaft input for belt drive.
Key specifications
| Ingress protection | IP65 |
|---|---|
| Speed (max) | 7,000 rpm |
| Ratio | 2–90:1 |
| Backlash (max) | 3 arcmin |
| Sizes | 082, 100, 132 |
| Efficiency | >=97% 1-stage, >=94% 2-stage |
| Radial load (max) | 7,200 N |
Series ranges as published; individual models vary. The full datasheet, drawings and CAD models are available on request.
APEX Dynamics GL / GLS model codes
Published model codes in the GL / GLS range. Search this page for your part number, or send it to us for availability, pricing and lead time.
| Model code |
|---|
| GL082 |
| GL100 |
| GL132 |
| GLS082 |
| GLS100 |
| GLS132 |
Options
- GL hub input
- GLS shaft input for belt/pulley
Typical applications
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 APEX Dynamics GL / GLS
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right GL / GLS variant:
- 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
APEX Dynamics GL / GLS: frequently asked questions
What is the APEX Dynamics GL / GLS?
Apex Dynamics AGV planetary with a rotating housing so a drive wheel or pulley can mount directly over it; GLS takes shaft input for belt drive. Published series figures include speed 7,000 rpm, ratio 2:1, ratio 90:1, backlash 3 arcmin. It is available through our supply network, and our engineers can confirm the right variant for your application.
Who makes the APEX Dynamics GL / GLS?
The APEX Dynamics GL / GLS is made by APEX Dynamics (APEX Dynamics, Inc.) available through our supply network. Send us your requirement for pricing, lead time, datasheets and CAD.
What model codes are in the APEX Dynamics GL / GLS range?
The GL / GLS range includes GL082, GL100, GL132, GLS082, GLS100, GLS132. The table on this page lists each published model code with its key figures. Send us the code you use, or the one you need to replace, and our engineers will confirm availability, lead time or the closest equivalent.
What is the speed of the APEX Dynamics GL / GLS?
The published series maximum speed is 7,000 rpm. Individual models and sizes in the GL / GLS 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.
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
Often compared with
Engineers specifying this series often compare it with:
Other planetary gearbox series
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