sumitomo gearmotor

Speed Reducers

Innovative Reducers Engineered for Maximum Performance, Efficiency, and Reliability

Sumitomo Drive Technologies offers a comprehensive range of heavy-duty speed reducers for the most demanding industrial applications.

Explore Our Industrial Speed Reducers

Our Top Gear Reducers

Other Sumitomo Speed Reducers


Key Features and Benefits of Our Gear Reducers

Rugged and Durable Construction
Features like rigid cast iron housings, double output seals as standard, and plunge-ground seal journals contribute to the rugged and durable construction of Sumitomo gear reducers, extending their service life.
Our Reducers Are Built to Last
Historically, we have supplied products that have outperformed our competition in the toughest of industries, such as forestry, steel, and mining, and applications like bulk material conveying, mixers, crushers, kilns, and cranes.
Wide Range of Ratios
Our gear reducers offer a complete range of ratios, from 11:1 up to over 26,000:1, to meet diverse application requirements.

Why Collaborate with Sumitomo for Your Speed Reducers?

In North America, Sumitomo Drive specializes in manufacturing gearboxes, particularly in Canada and the United States.  Here are some of our values that make us one of the best options for your reducer needs: 

  • Over 130 Years of Engineering Excellence

Over 130 years of engineering excellence, Sumitomo Drive Technologies has been driving power transmission innovation. We've consistently delivered cutting-edge gear reducers that set new benchmarks for quality, reliability, and performance across a wide range of industries.

  • Global Presence, Local Support

Having a global presence and localized support is what really sets us apart from the competition. With manufacturing facilities, sales offices, and service centers in multiple countries, we are ideally positioned to meet your speed reducer needs, no matter where your operations are located.

  • In-House Design and Manufacturing

With our vertically integrated approach, we handle everything from design to manufacturing. In turn, this enables us to maintain stringent quality control, optimize lead times, and rapidly adapt our industrial gear reducers to changing market conditions. We also nurture a culture of innovation by exploring new technologies.

  • Application Expertise and Technical Support

Over the years, we've acquired application expertise in a variety of sectors, so we know the unique challenges you face in your business. To optimize performance, efficiency, and reliability, we tailor our reducers closely to your requirements. Whether you need help selecting products, designing systems, or troubleshooting, you can count on our team's experience.

  • Comprehensive Service and Parts Availability

Additionally, we provide comprehensive service and parts availability to minimize downtime. In addition to genuine replacement parts, our global network provides maintenance, repairs, and overhauls, keeping your operation going.


Frequently Asked Questions About Gear Reducers | FAQs

What is a Gear Reducer?

A gear reducer, also known as a speed reducer or gearbox, is a mechanical device that reduces the speed and increases the torque output from a motor or power source. It accomplishes this through a series of gears with different ratios, making it an essential component in many industrial applications.

What Does Gear Reduction Do?

Gear reduction allows a high-speed, low-torque input to be converted into a low-speed, high-torque output. This is crucial for applications requiring high torque but low rotational speeds, such as conveyor systems, mixers, and industrial machinery. Understanding how gear reduction works is key to optimizing performance in various mechanical setups.

What are the different types of gear reducers?

Common types of reducers include:

  • Worm gear reducers: Known for compactness, high torque output, and quiet operation.
  • Planetary gear reducers: Offer high torque density and efficiency in a compact design.
  • Cycloidal (cyclo) gear reducers: Provide very high torque capacity and shock load resistance.
  • Bevel gear reducers: Ideal for right-angle gear configurations.
  • Helical gear reducers: Known for high efficiency and smooth operation.
  • Right-angle gear reducers: Perfect for space-saving applications.
  • Inline gear reducers: Used where alignment is critical.
What is a worm gear reducer?

A worm gear reducer uses a worm (screw-like gear) that meshes with a worm wheel (spur gear-like). They are known for their compact design and high torque multiplication, making them a popular choice for various industrial applications.

What is a planetary gear reducer?

Planetary gear reducers use an outer ring gear and multiple planet gears that revolve around a central sun gear. This design offers high torque density and efficiency in a compact form, making it suitable for high-torque applications.

What is a cycloidal (cyclo) gear reducer?

Cycloidal gear reducers utilize an eccentric motion that causes the cycloidal discs to roll and rotate, providing extremely high torque capacity and resistance to shock loads.

How do I select the right gear reducer?

Consider factors such as required torque, speed ratio, mounting configuration, duty cycle, environmental conditions, and any special requirements like wash down or corrosion resistance. Reviewing the link-belt gearbox catalog can also help. We also have top-tier engineers on staff to assist you and an online Product Configurator to help you select the perfect gearbox. If you are looking for something custom, we also offer retro-fitted and drop-in reducers.

Where can I buy gear reducers or gearboxes?

New Sumitomo gear reducers can be purchased directly from us or through authorized distributors. 

Maintaining and Repairing Gear Reducers

How do I maintain or repair a gear reducer? Regular lubrication, inspection, and replacement of worn components like seals and bearings are crucial for maintenance. Many manufacturers provide gear reducer repair services and rebuild programs to extend the life of your gear reducers.