This article explains how to select harmonic reduction gears based on specific equipment, covering aspects such as average load torque, input speed, start-stop peak torque, comparison of impact torque, permissible number of impact torque cycles, and service life. It concludes with a mention of Honpine's star products, harmonic reduction gears.
The load torque mode (referring to the relationship between load torque and output speed over time in a complete working cycle) is the basis for selection calculation. It clarifies the torque and speed requirements of the equipment at each stage. The specific mode is shown in the figure below.

Based on the diagram, assume the following equipment operating parameters are used: Normal operating mode
At startup:
T1=150N·m t1=0.2sec n1=10 r/min
At constant speed:
T2=82N·m t2=3sec n2=20 r/min
At stop (deceleration):
T3=130N·m t3=0.3sec n3=10 r/min
At shutdown:
T4=0 N·m t4=0.2sec n4=0 r/min
Maximum speed (limited by motor, etc.)
Maximum output speed:
no max = 20r/min
Maximum input speed:
ni max = 2000r/min
Impact torque
When impact torque is applied:
Ts=200N·m ts=0.15sec ns=20 r/min
The average load torque (Tav) is the equivalent continuous load borne by the equipment during its working cycle. It is directly related to the long-term heating and mechanical fatigue life of the reducer, and it must be ensured that it does not exceed the reducer's allowable value.
The calculation formula and process are as follows:

The calculation results show that Tav = 89 N·m, which is less than the maximum allowable average load torque of FSG-25 (140 N·m). Therefore, the initially selected model passes this verification step.
The input speed (including average and peak values) must be strictly controlled within the rated range of the reducer. Exceeding the speed limit will lead to abnormal temperature rise and accelerated gear meshing wear, thereby directly shortening the service life.


The average and maximum input speeds were within limits; the verification passed.
The peak torque during start-up and stop is a periodic load; it is necessary to verify whether the reducer's structural strength can withstand it to avoid damage caused by long-term impact.


The peak torque during start-up and shutdown did not exceed the limits, and the verification was successful.
Impact torque is a sudden, extreme overload that may occur during equipment operation. Due to emergency stops or external, unpredictable impacts, a relatively large load torque may be applied to the reducer. When the reducer is subjected to torque reaching its instantaneous maximum allowable torque, it will cause irreversible damage. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the impact torque does not exceed the reducer's instantaneous load limit.

Calculate and determine whether the permissible number of impact torque applications meets the requirements.
The permissible number of applications (Ns) needs to be calculated based on the output speed ns and the application time ts under the impact torque, and it needs to be confirmed that this limit meets the usage conditions.

The allowed number of times must be limited to 1000, which does not exceed the limit of 1.0 × 10⁴ (redirects), meeting the design and usage requirements, and the verification has been passed.
The overall service life (Lh) of the harmonic reducer is usually determined by the service life (Ln) of the wave generator bearings. Ln is generally determined using the general rated service life standard L10 for bearings (10,000 hours in this example). That is:

After the above seven verification steps, the FSG-25-100-I-E model meets the equipment operating conditions and usage requirements in terms of load, speed, and lifespan under simulated equipment operating conditions, and this model can be finally selected.
The large central through-hole design allows for easy passage of cables, air tubes, optical fibers, or mechanical shafts, simplifying wiring. Suitable for collaborative robots, medical surgical robots, and industrial automation turntables.
The ultra-thin design helps improve the dynamic response speed of the entire device. It is commonly used in robot joints, gimbal systems, and medical exoskeletons.
The cross-slider mechanism enhances the mechanism's ability to absorb load impacts and improves transmission smoothness. It is suitable for equipment with high stability requirements, such as precision CNC machine tools.
It can provide stable high torque output in small spaces, making it suitable for space-constrained mechanical equipment, such as sewer robots.
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