Which material is generally used for manufacturing helical gears?

Steel is commonly used for manufacturing helical gears due to its excellent mechanical properties, including high strength, durability, and wear resistance. These attributes are especially important in applications where gears are subjected to high loads and operational stresses. Helical gears, with their inclined tooth design, are typically used in power transmission systems because they can handle greater loads compared to spur gears, leading to smoother and quieter operation.

Steel's ability to be heat-treated enhances its hardness and strength, allowing it to withstand wear over time, which is particularly beneficial given the constant contact between gear teeth as they mesh. Additionally, the ability to manufacture steel into precise shapes ensures that helical gears can be made with the necessary accuracy for effective meshing and engagement, leading to efficient power transfer.

While cast iron, aluminum, and plastic might serve in specific applications or for lower-load scenarios, they do not provide the same level of performance and durability required for most helical gear applications. Cast iron can be brittle, aluminum is not as strong as steel for high-strength applications, and plastic, while lightweight and corrosion-resistant, may not support the significant loads found in many mechanical systems. Therefore, steel stands out as the ideal choice for helical gears in demanding environments.