1. Tensioning: Idler gears are often used to maintain proper tension in a belt or chain drive. They create an additional contact point with the belt or chain, increasing friction and preventing slipping or jumping of the belt/chain on the pulleys or sprockets.
2. Direction Change: Idler gears can change the direction of rotation in a gear train. By inserting an idler gear between two meshing gears, the rotation of the driven gear can be reversed.
3. Speed Ratio Modification: Idler gears can modify the speed ratio between the input and output gears in a gear train. They help achieve a desired speed reduction or increase without significantly affecting the center distance (distance between the centers of the input and output shafts).
4. Balancing Forces: In certain applications, idler gears are used to balance the forces acting on the shafts and bearings. They help distribute loads and reduce stress on the components by introducing an additional contact point.
5. Idling Mechanism: Idler gears can be part of an idling mechanism, which allows a component or system to be disengaged from the drive when not in use. By introducing an idler gear, the driven component can be temporarily decoupled from the input without stopping the entire system.
6. Adjustment: Idler gears may also be used for adjustment purposes. They allow fine-tuning of the tension, alignment, or speed ratio in a power transmission system.
7. Noise Reduction: Idler gears can contribute to noise reduction by providing a smoother or more gradual transition between gears, particularly when used with timing belts.
Overall, idler gears play important roles in maintaining tension, changing direction, modifying speed ratios, balancing forces, idling mechanisms, making adjustments, and reducing noise in mechanical systems, especially in belt and chain drives.
