Speed increaser: what it is and what it is used for

What is a speed increaser?

A speed increaser is a mechanical device used to increase the rotational speed of motors, shafts, and spindles. It is essential in situations where slow rotation must be converted into fast rotation.

A common example of this application can be found in wind energy generation. The wind causes the turbine blades to rotate slowly, and this movement drives the speed increaser, which converts that slow rotation into a much faster one, enough to power an alternator and generate electricity.

The operation of a speed increaser is based on a gear system. A driving gear with a larger diameter transmits torque to a smaller driven gear. If the driving gear has twice the diameter of the driven gear, one full rotation of the larger gear produces two rotations of the smaller one. This way, the smaller gear spins twice as fast as the larger one, creating the speed increase.

Common industrial applications

Speed increasers are used in several industrial sectors:

• Wind turbines: convert the slow rotation of the turbine blades into the fast rotation needed to generate energy.
• Machine tools: increase spindle speed, enabling fast and precise cutting and drilling operations.
• Conveyors: adjust motor speed as needed for specific process requirements.
• Machining centers: adjust the speed of milling, drilling, and other tools.
• Small hydropower plants (SHPs): similar to wind turbines, they increase turbine rotation speed for energy generation.

Types of speed increasers

Among the most common types of speed increasers, hollow shaft models and right-angle configurations stand out.

• Hollow shaft speed increaser: compact and efficient, it is designed to directly increase machine speed. It can be easily connected to the drive shaft without complicated installation procedures. Ideal for manufacturing equipment, automation systems, and any machinery that requires a speed increase without complex interventions.
• Right-angle speed increaser: designed for situations where the output shaft meets the transmission shaft at a 90-degree angle. This type allows the use of a dual-sided hollow shaft, significantly increasing flexibility and equipment speed.

Difference between a speed increaser and a speed reducer

A speed increaser is used to increase rotational speed. A speed reducer, on the other hand, works in the opposite way, reducing speed and increasing torque.

Here are the main differences between them:

Both devices use gear principles to transform power, but the design and application of each are tailored to meet the specific needs of their functions.

Benefits of using speed increasers

Speed increasers improve operational efficiency by allowing equipment to operate at higher speeds. They are versatile and can be adapted to a wide range of industrial applications.

There are different types of speed increasers, such as hollow shaft and right-angle models, each suited to different scenarios. This flexibility allows integration into complex systems, providing customized solutions that meet the specific needs of each application.

In clean energy generation, speed increasers are essential. They are used in wind turbines and hydropower plants to boost clean, renewable energy production.

Maintenance and care

To maintain the efficiency of the speed increase provided by the device, it is essential to perform regular maintenance and inspections. Here are some essential care practices:

• Keep the environment clean: prevent internal contamination to avoid overheating from dirt buildup.
• Proper lubrication: always use the correct lubricants according to manufacturer specifications.
• Monitor temperature: use infrared thermometers to detect temperature changes that may indicate problems.
• Visual inspection: check for cracks, leaks, oxidation, or any other abnormality.
• Check the load: operate with the appropriate load. Loads that are too light or too heavy can cause the equipment to run at an irregular speed, damaging components.
• Work with specialists: purchase equipment from specialized companies such as Zanini Renk, which offer complete maintenance services.

Speed increasers from Zanini Renk

At Zanini Renk, we bring more than 40 years of experience supplying speed reducers and speed increasers that are synonymous with quality and innovation. We serve several markets worldwide, including the Americas, South Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the European Union.

Our company is recognized in both domestic and international markets for the excellence of our products, which are synonymous with performance and reliability. We serve the needs of various industries, including mining, cement, steel, sugar and ethanol, among others.

Speed increasers for small hydropower plants (SHPs)

Zanini Renk offers speed increaser solutions for SHPs. These systems maximize robustness and energy efficiency while adapting to the available plant layout. The speed increasers incorporate axial bearing support to withstand turbine axial loads. Zanini Renk offers two product lines: planetary and parallel shaft speed increasers.

High efficiency

With Zanini Renk speed increasers, it is possible to use generators with higher nominal speed, lower weight, and greater efficiency. This results in high performance levels for the complete electromechanical assembly.

Low noise level

Careful component selection and manufacturing quality provide Zanini Renk speed increasers with low maximum permissible sound pressure levels in hydropower generation installations.

Project savings

Using Zanini Renk speed increasers helps reduce the payback period on the initial investment thanks to several advantages:

• More compact installations, reducing construction time and civil works costs
• Higher-speed generators with smaller dimensions, allowing more flexible plant design and reducing electromechanical project costs by up to 30%
• Greater efficiency and improved generator performance

Zanini Renk speed increasers transform small hydropower plants into highly efficient and sustainable energy generation systems. Our customized equipment ensures energy efficiency even in low-head applications.

Want to learn more? Contact our team of specialists.

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