Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions about our products or services? Below are some of our most commonly asked question.

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What information do I need to get started in the selection process?

To select the proper reducer for your application, you will need to know:Application: type of driven machine
Hours of operation per day
Motor horsepower (HP) and speed (RPM)
Loading Conditions
Mounting Position 
Ambient environment (altitude, dusty, chemical, explosive, water) 
Ambient temperature and humidity 
You must also note any special environmental factors or operation requirements.  This information will be important in determining your application's service factor. 

How do I select a Cyclo® HBB reducer or gearmotor?

Selection is based on the actual horsepower and/or torque requirements at the output shaft.  The Cyclo® HBB speed reducer has particularly high efficiencies over a wide range of reduction ratios, which frequently permits the use of reduced input power requirements (smaller HP motor) without sacrificing output shaft torque.  The selection procedures in our catalog will guide you in choosing the most efficient reducer for your application.

Clone of How often do I change the oil?

The first oil change should be carried out preferably after 100 hours and not more than 800 hours of operation.  The removed oil may be used again after filtering.  Filter the oil volume at least 10 times using a 10mm filter or smaller.  Subsequently the oil should be renewed after 4000 to 8000 hours or maximum of 18 months of operation depending on working conditions.  Please refer to service manual for detailed oil change instructions.

What type of lubrication method does the P4 use?

Hansen P4 units use one of the following systems:

  • Splash Lubrication (standard with horizontal shaft gear units for speeds between 750 and 1800RPM at the high speed shaft.  Gears and output shaft bearings are lubricated by immersion in the oil bath.  Oil splash from gears fill the oil pockets in the housing, assuring gravity circulation lubrication of the bearings via channels in the housing and covers.)
  • Force Feed Lubrication (all rotating elements above oil bath level are lubricated by a gear pump forcing the oil through pressure lines.  Forced feed lubrication is available as circulation lubrication or pressure lubrication.
How can I be sure that the reducer can withstand periodic excessive overloads?

Cyclo® BBB5 Speed Reducers provide 300% momentary intermittent shock load capacity. For applications with shock loads greater than 300%, consult a Sumitomo Application Engineer.

How do I select a Cyclo® BBB5 reducer or gearmotor?

Visit our Cyclo® BBB5 Product Configurator to find the exact match for your applications.

How do I select a Cyclo® BBB4 reducer or gearmotor?

Visit our Cyclo® BBB4 Product Configurator at www.smcyclo.com/Configurator to find the exact match for your applications.

What is the difference in the mounting positions of the Cyclo® BBB4?

The mounting positions for the Cyclo® BBB4 detail the position of the unit relative to the driven shaft. The mounting position effects how the unit is assembled and maintained (i.e., location of oil fill ports, type of lubrication, breather location, etc.). You must specify the mounting position at the time of order.

What kind of torque arm do I specify? At what position should I mount it?

The standard torque arm assembly supplied is a turnbuckle type as shown in our catalog. The torque arm should be mounted at 90 degrees to a line from the point of attachment to the reducer and the center of the output bore with up to 30 degrees plus or minus variance. A bracket type torque arm is also offered as a non-stock option. In addition, we provide the Banjo-type and T-type torque arm mounting configurations.

What are the advantages of the new Steel Taper-Grip® bushing?

With an increased torque capacity, the new Steel Taper-Grip® bushing can be used in reversing and/or high start-up applications. The new Steel Taper-Grip®bushing can be used on all Taper-Grip® products.

Other Questions?

We invite you to contact us with any questions that you might have.