Spur gears are cylindrical gears with straight teeth parallel to the axis of rotation, used to transmit motion between parallel shafts. They are the simplest and most common type of gear due to their straightforward design and ease of manufacture. Spur gears are known for their efficiency and reliability in transmitting power, typically ranging from 95% to 99%. They are suitable for moderate speeds but can be noisy at higher speeds. Spur gears are commonly made from steel, brass, cast iron, plastic, or bronze, offering versatility for various applications.
Numerous manufacturers offer spur gears, including Boston Gear, AmTech International, and Grob Inc.. These gears are used in a wide array of applications, such as automotive transmissions, construction equipment, household appliances, and industrial machinery. Spur gears can be external, with teeth on the outer surface, or internal, with teeth on the inner surface of a ring. While specific pricing can vary significantly based on material, size, and manufacturer, basic spur gears can start as low as a few dollars, while custom-engineered gears for specialized applications can cost significantly more. Spur gears are generally readily available from numerous suppliers and manufacturers.