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B Series Right-Angle Bevel-Helical Gear Speed Reducer – Application-Based Selection Guide
◆When a right-angle drive is needed to save space or align with equipment layout, the HelmeDrive B Series offers a robust solution. It combines a bevel gear input stage with helical output stages, providing high efficiency and torque density in a compact, 90° configuration.
◆The HelmeDrive B Series includes three-stage (designated as B3) and four-stage (designated as B4) versions, covering frame sizes 23 to 32. Speed ratios range from approximately 19.5:1 to 355:1, with output torque capabilities matching the H Series (up to 1,030 kN·m and beyond). This series is ideal for applications where the motor must be mounted perpendicular to the driven shaft, such as in tight machinery rooms or on mobile equipment.
Note: The "B3" and "B4" in the model designation refer to the number of reduction stages (three-stage and four-stage respectively). They are not to be confused with IEC mounting position codes.
Product Overview
Parameter | HelmeDrive B Series (B3, B4) |
Shaft Configuration | Right-angle (bevel-helical) |
Number of Stages | B3: 3 stages; B4: 4 stages |
Frame Sizes | 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32 |
Speed Ratios (actual) | B3: 19.5 – 80.8; B4: 80 – 355 |
Output Torque Range | Up to1,030 kN·m(size 26, higher for larger) |
Input Speed | Typically 592 – 1500 r/min |
Mounting | Horizontal (foot-mounted) with multiple assembly positions |
Lubrication | Splash lubrication (standard); forced lubrication optional |
Standards | Designed to ISO, DIN, AGMA equivalents |
Application Areas (Derived from Driven Machine Classifications)
The B Series shares the same application spectrum as the H Series, but its right-angle design brings additional advantages where space is constrained or where the drive train requires a 90° turn.
Industry / Application | Typical Driven Machines | Why Right-Angle Helps |
Cranes & Hoists | Travel mechanisms, Slewing gears | Compact mounting on crane end carriages |
Conveying | Inclined conveyors, Apron feeders | Allows motor placement alongside conveyor frame |
Mining | Stacker-reclaimers, Crushers | Fits in limited space on mobile equipment |
Cement | Bucket elevators, Screw conveyors | Motor can be mounted vertically above the shaft |
Food & Beverage | Mixers, Fillers | Saves floor space in hygienic processing areas |
Water Treatment | Aerators, Scrapers | Enables drive placement above tank level |
Marine | Winches, Deck cranes | Accommodates low headroom installations |
1. Space-Constrained Conveyor Drives
Common Pain Points:
n Limited space alongside conveyor frame
n Need for motor to be placed away from material flow
n High radial loads from pulley
Selection Recommendations:
Selection Parameter | Recommended Feature | Why It Matters |
Mounting Versatility | Foot-mounted or hollow shaft with shrink disc | Direct mounting on pulley shaft saves space |
Right-Angle Design | B3 or B4 with motor flange input | Motor can be positioned vertically or horizontally |
Radial Load Capacity | Heavy-duty bearings on output shaft | Supports pulley weight and belt tension |
2. Crane Travel and Slewing Mechanisms
Common Pain Points:
n Tight space on crane girders
n Need for smooth acceleration/deceleration
n Frequent reversing operation
Selection Recommendations:
Selection Parameter | Recommended Feature | Why It Matters |
Backlash Control | Precision bevel gears | Ensures accurate positioning for slewing |
Brake Integration | DC brake on input shaft | Compact, fail-safe stopping |
Shock Resistance | Case-hardened gears | Withstands rail irregularities |
3. Vertical Agitators and Mixers
Common Pain Points:
n Motor mounted above tank for hygiene
n Need for right-angle drive to access shaft
n Corrosive environment
Selection Recommendations:
Selection Parameter | Recommended Feature | Why It Matters |
Shaft Configuration | Hollow output with keyway or shrink disc | Direct connection to mixer shaft |
Seal Protection | Viton® seals, epoxy coating | Resists chemicals and washdown |
Lubrication | Synthetic oil, food-grade if required | Meets FDA/NSF standards |
★Technical Specifications Reference
Frame Size | B3 Speed Ratios (actual) | B4 Speed Ratios (actual) | Max Output Torque (kN·m) * |
23 | 19.591 – 69.301 | 76.497 – 298.215 | 80 |
24 | 21.930 – 77.575 | 85.631 – 333.823 | 100 |
25 | 19.284 – 68.216 | 76.116 – 304.465 | 125 |
26 | 22.206 – 78.551 | 87.649 – 350.596 | 160 (1,030**) |
27 | 19.843 – 70.194 | 78.328 – 305.354 | 180 |
28 | 22.850 – 80.829 | 90.196 – 351.620 | 200 |
29 | – | 81.698 – 318.490 | 224 |
30 | – | 96.247 – 375.208 | 250 |
31 | – | 81.990 – 330.988 | 280 |
32 | – | 82.492 – 321.588 | 315 |
*Note: Torque values are typical; consult HelmeDrive for exact ratings at specific ratios and operating conditions. *For size 26, rated torque up to 1,030 kN·m is achievable in some configurations (see calculation example).
★What to Know Before You Buy
n Right-angle or parallel?– Choose B Series when the motor must be offset 90° from the driven shaft. This is common in space-limited installations, vertical shafts, or when the motor needs to be placed away from the driven equipment for maintenance access.
n Understanding B3/B4 designation– In the model code,B3andB4refer to the number of reduction stages (three-stage and four-stage respectively). This is different from IEC mounting position codes. When ordering, please specify both thestage count (B3 or B4)and the requiredmounting configuration(foot-mounted, flange-mounted, etc.).
n Assembly position matters– The B Series offers multiple assembly positions (Design A, B, C) that determine the location of the feet relative to the output shaft. Specify your required arrangement when ordering.
n Verify the speed ratio– Use the actual ratio tables to confirm the exact output speed. The nominal ratios (e.g., 20, 25, 28…) are approximations; actual ratios vary slightly and affect torque.
n Check hollow shaft options– For direct shaft mounting, consider the hollow shaft version with shrink disk. This eliminates couplings and saves space.
n Lubrication – separate circuits– Bevel and helical stages may have separate lubrication; ensure both are filled to the correct level based on mounting position.
n Service factor same as H Series– Use the same f1, f2, f3 coefficients and temperature adjustments as outlined for H Series. The mechanical rating is comparable.
n Let HelmeDrive assist– With complex right-angle drives, small errors in load direction or mounting can affect bearing life. Provide a detailed installation sketch and load data for optimal selection.
By matching your selection to your actual working conditions and operational challenges, you ensure longer equipment life, lower maintenance costs, and higher system reliability.HelmeDrive is committed to providing robust, efficient solutions tailored to your heavy industrial needs.