Gearboxes
Backlash
Defined mechanical play between tooth flanks, bearing rings, or guide elements — a degree of freedom that is either an unavoidable result of manufacturing or is deliberately set, influencing positioning accuracy and stiffness.
Definition
| Class | Flank Clearance | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Zero Backlash (P0) | < 1 arc minute | Robotics, metrology |
| Reduced Backlash (P1) | 1–3 arc minutes | Servo motors, CNC |
| Standard (P2) | > 3 arc minutes | General mechanical engineering |
Practical Relevance
For simple conveyor drives or agitators, backlash is unproblematic and even advantageous for service life. In servo positioning axes or robot joints, however, zero-backlash gearboxes with preload are essential. The choice between backlash and zero-backlash has a direct impact on price, accuracy, and service life.