The cycloidal gearbox efficiency for different types of bearings—Sleeves vs. needle bearings

A comparative study of a cycloidal gearbox working with a different kind of bearings is presented in the article. Two kinds of the bearings used in the cycloidal gearbox are taken into consideration: sleeves and needle bearings. The theoretical efficiency calculation for both types of the bearing was compared with experimental results. The experiment was performed on a one-stage cycloidal gearbox designed, calculated, and manufactured during the research. The test was made under different working conditions, input speeds, and the braking torques. The results show an increase in the efficiency for the needle bearings compared to sleeves. The value of the efficiency is strictly connected with the braking torque of the gearbox as well as with the velocity. The article shows a very good correlation between calculated efficiency and the efficiency determined during the tests.