Gear racks (toothed racks) are bars with straight teeth which, together with a spur gear, form a rack and pinion drive and convert rotary motion into linear motion. It is a simple and reliable solution when you need to move a machine axis, a feeder, a gate or a lift platform.
Ozdowski gear racks - 20° profile to DIN 867, joinable to any length
The racks have an involute tooth profile with a 20° pressure angle to DIN 867, so they work with any spur gear of the same module, including those from other manufacturers. Unlike a lead screw, a rack can be extended practically without limit by joining further sections. Standard racks are usually made of C45 steel, often also of C15 - unhardened, they are easy to shorten and machine on site. For high feed forces choose hardened racks, which wear more slowly, and for damp conditions and the food industry - stainless steel racks.
Square, hardened, stainless and round linear gear racks
Square-section racks in several lengths, hardened and stainless versions, and round racks with teeth cut into a shaft. The subgroups correspond to modules, and the section and length are given in the product name. Matching gears can be found in the Spur gears category.
How to choose a gear rack: module, section, length and version
Start with the module - it must be the same as on the driving gear. Then choose the section: a larger one means greater stiffness and load capacity. Choose the length according to the axis travel with an allowance for gear overrun, and the version according to the load and operating environment.
Frequently asked questions about gear racks
Which gear fits a gear rack?
A straight-tooth spur gear with the same module and a 20° pressure angle. The most convenient choice is a gear with hub from the Spur gears with hub group.
Can racks be joined?
Yes. Racks are laid end to end, keeping the tooth pitch at the joint - the easiest way to set it is to use a short piece of rack placed across both ends as a gauge.
Are gear racks available from stock?
Stock availability is shown above the product price and may vary depending on the warehouse.