Gears & Gear Rack

This collection stocks 591 gears and gear rack from 12 to 96 diametral pitch with standard pressure angles, from 8 to 140 teeth. The line centers on acetal gears, which run quietly, need no lubrication, and shrug off moisture, with stainless steel, nylon, and brass options for higher load and temperature.

Gears mesh when diametral pitch and pressure angle match, regardless of tooth count, material, or manufacturer, so an acetal gear from this collection can run against an existing steel gear of the same DP and PA, a common low noise pairing. Finished bores with set screws are standard on hubbed styles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What gears will mesh with each other?

Any two gears sharing the same diametral pitch and pressure angle mesh, regardless of tooth count, material, or brand. A 24 DP, 20 degree gear from this collection runs against any other 24 DP, 20 degree gear. Mixing materials is fine; acetal on steel is a common quiet pairing.

What is diametral pitch?

Diametral pitch (DP) is teeth per inch of pitch diameter. Higher DP means smaller, finer teeth: a 96 DP gear is instrument scale, a 12 DP gear is a coarse power gear. DP must match for gears to mesh, so identify it first when replacing a gear.

Do acetal gears need lubrication?

No. Acetal is self lubricating at light loads, which is why it dominates instrumentation, packaging, and office equipment drives. It also runs quieter than metal and will not corrode in damp environments.

How do I identify an unknown gear?

Count the teeth and measure the outside diameter. Diametral pitch is approximately teeth plus two, divided by the outside diameter in inches. Then check the pressure angle against a gear gauge or the mating gear, and measure the bore.