About Nema 17 Planetary Gearbox
Precision planetary gearboxes engineered for direct flange mounting with NEMA 17 (42mm) stepper motors. Two configurations available - helical high-precision (PGH42) and economical spur gear (PGE42) - to match your performance requirements and budget.
Backlash
from 2 arcmin
Efficiency
up to 95%
Protection
IP65 rated
Warranty
20 months
NEMA 17 Stepper Motor Compatibility
NEMA 17 (42mm 42mm) stepper motors are one of the most widely used small stepper motor specifications in the world, with a standard step angle of 1.8, an output shaft diameter of 5mm, and a current rating typically between 1.02.0A.
Sango's PGH42 and PGE42 planetary gearboxes are designed with direct flange butt and can be installed with NEMA 17 stepper motors without adapters. For you, this means:
No additional coaxiality error is introduced, and the transmission accuracy is completely retained
Installation man-hours are shortened, and there is no need for secondary processing or custom connectors
Each set of products is checked by coaxiality before leaving the factory, and can be directly installed and used upon arrival
Planetary Gearbox compatible with NEMA17
There are two main types of NEMA17 stepper motors in Sango's planetary gearboxes, namely the PGE42 of the PGE series and the PGH42 of the PGH series.
Difference Between PGH42 and PGE42
The PGH series is a high precision helical gear planetary gearhead developed and produced by Sango, which uses helical solar and planetary gears with helical teeth. The PGH42 model can provide three backlash accuracy options, of which the standard backlash 6 arc min; precision backlash4 arc min; ultraprecision backlash2 arc min.
The PGE series is an economical version-flange spur gear planetary gearbox produced by Sango, which is a series suitable for high cost performance without high precision requirements. Among them, the model PGE42 is available in only one accuracy level, which is the standard backlash 8 arc min.
In addition to the difference in gear tooth shape and backlash, the two products also differ in the following parameters.
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Parameters
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PGH42
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PGE42
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Rated Input Speed
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4000 rpm
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Max. Input Speed
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8000 rpm
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Backlash
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2 arc min 6 arc min
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8 arcmin
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Permissible Radial Force
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510 N
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200 N
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Permissible Axial Force
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410 N
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160 N
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Service Life
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20000 h
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Operating Temperature
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-10C +90C
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-10C +80C
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Noise Level
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56 dB
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58 dB
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Transmission Efficiency
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95%
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Protection Class
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IP65
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Mounting Position
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Arbitrary
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Lubrication Method
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Grease
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Applications
Here are three of the most widely used industry sectors in the Sango NEMA 17 planetary gear unit series.
Industrial robots and robotic arms
In multi-axis robotic arm systems, the wrist and elbow joints place extremely high demands on actuators: they must be compact, capable of delivering high torque and having very low backlash. PGH42 can be used well in these scenarios.
Laboratory automation and medical equipment
In devices such as liquid handling robots and surgical aid platforms, smooth, low-vibration motion control is often required at very low output speeds, typically below 10 rpm. This type of application requires high precision, and customers often purchase PGH42 series planetary gearbox.
Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
In the factory floor environment, AGV steering shafts and lifting shafts not only need to withstand continuous and uninterrupted operating loads, but also have to withstand the rigors of dust and mechanical vibration. Both the PGE42 and PGH42 series are available to determine the specific model according to the transmission efficiency you need.
If you are unsure which range of products is best for your application needs, please let Sango's application engineers know your load requirements, operating conditions, and more. We will select the model for free according to your working conditions and choose the product model that best suits your working conditions.
Versatile Compatibility and Custom OptionsThe Nema 17 Planetary Gearbox supports a wide range of gear ratios, making it adaptable for numerous applications from light-duty to heavy-load scenarios. With a standard 8mm shaft diameter and the possibility for custom sizing, this gearbox is designed for seamless integration with Nema 17 stepper motors and various automation systems. Its flexibility benefits those involved in innovation-driven industries, including robotics and advanced manufacturing.
Precision and Longevity in PerformanceCrafted using precision machining processes and high-grade stainless steel and aluminum alloys, the gearbox is built to withstand rigorous use. Its low-backlash (15 arcmin) gearing and 95% efficiency optimize output accuracy and energy use, while an impressive lifetime of over 20,000 hours reduces downtime and maintenance costs. Users can rely on its consistent performance across a broad temperature range, supported by IP54-rated protection.
FAQ's of Nema 17 Planetary Gearbox:
Q: How do I select the appropriate gear ratio for my application?
A: The ideal gear ratio depends on the required output speed and torque of your application. Lower ratios (5:1, 10:1) provide faster speeds with moderate torque, while higher ratios (50:1, 100:1) deliver greater torque at reduced speeds. Review your system's load and speed requirements to make the correct selection.
Q: What are the primary benefits of using a planetary gearbox with low backlash?
A: A low-backlash design enhances positional accuracy and repeatability, making it ideal for precision applications such as CNC, 3D printers, and robotics. Reduced backlash helps ensure smooth, precise motion and minimizes errors in high-precision operations.
Q: Where can this gearbox be mounted and is it compatible with all Nema 17 motors?
A: The gearbox features a standard Nema 17 flange (42mm x 42mm), making it directly mountable to most Nema 17 stepper motors and compatible devices. Check the shaft diameter and mounting specifications for compatibility with your specific motor or request custom shaft sizes if required.
Q: What maintenance is required and how is the gearbox lubricated?
A: This gearbox is maintenance-free, as it comes pre-lubricated with high-quality grease. Its sealed design and IP54 rating protect the internal gearing from dust and minor splashes, ensuring reliable operation without regular servicing.
Q: When should I consider replacing the gearbox?
A: With a life expectancy exceeding 20,000 hours, the gearbox typically only needs replacement after prolonged use in demanding conditions, physical damage, or significant performance degradation. Regular observation for unusual noise or reduced efficiency can help determine replacement timing.
Q: What processes are involved in manufacturing this gearbox to ensure quality?
A: The gearbox is manufactured using precision machining of stainless steel and aluminum alloy components, ensuring tight tolerances and optimal gear mesh. Quality assurance procedures involve testing for backlash, noise, efficiency, and torque to guarantee a reliable, high-performance product.
Q: How does the gearbox contribute to efficiency and noise reduction in automation systems?
A: With a 95% efficiency rating and a noise level of only 55 dB, the gearbox minimizes energy losses and maintains a quiet working environment. This makes it suitable for sensitive settings such as laboratories or production floors where precision and low noise are critical.