Differential Gear

Last crawled date: 10 months, 1 week ago

A differential gear is a mechanical component found in vehicles, typically in the drivetrain, designed to allow two wheels on the same axle to rotate at different speeds while transmitting equal torque. It plays a critical role in enabling smooth turning and efficient power distribution to the wheels.

The differential consists of a set of gears and shafts housed in a casing. The most common type of differential is the bevel gear differential, which includes a ring gear, two side gears, and a set of pinion gears.

When a vehicle is moving in a straight line, the differential allows the wheels on both sides of the axle to rotate at the same speed, ensuring equal torque distribution to both wheels. However, during a turn, the outer wheel has to travel a greater distance than the inner wheel, causing them to rotate at different speeds.

The differential gear facilitates this by allowing the side gears to rotate at different speeds while transferring the power from the engine to the wheels. The pinion gears mesh with both side gears and distribute the rotational force, enabling the wheels to rotate at different speeds while maintaining equal torque.

In 4-wheel drive vehicles, there are both front and rear differentials, ensuring smooth power distribution to all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.

Overall, the differential gear is a fundamental component in modern vehicles, allowing for smooth turns, improved handling, and efficient power delivery to the wheels, contributing to a safer and more controlled driving experience.