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Waimica case

Waimica's Worm Gearbox Solution for Servo Rotation Modules in New Energy Stack Assembly Systems

2018-08-13 Waimica

Industry Challenges and Pain Points Analysis:

The new energy stack assembly system is a critical component in the production of electric vehicle (EV) batteries and other high-tech energy storage devices. The system typically includes stacking mechanisms, conveying units, and servo-driven rotating modules that ensure accurate and efficient layering of electrode materials. As the industry moves toward higher automation, miniaturization, and production efficiency, the demand for high-performance transmission systems in these modules has significantly increased.

  • High Precision Requirement: The stacking process must align electrodes with sub-millimeter accuracy to prevent defects in battery performance.
  • Compact Design: Limited space inside production cells necessitates compact yet high-torque-density transmission solutions.
  • Environmental Constraints: Many stacking processes occur in cleanrooms or high-temperature environments, requiring robust and contamination-resistant components.
  • Reliability and Maintenance: Frequent maintenance and system downtime due to traditional gearboxes hinder productivity and increase lifecycle costs.
  • Compatibility with Servo Motors: Transmission systems must seamlessly integrate with high-speed, high-torque servo motors to ensure smooth and responsive motion control.

Key Role and Technical Requirements for Gearboxes in this Industry:

Gearboxes are essential to the servo rotation module in new energy stack assembly systems. They must meet a set of stringent performance criteria to ensure the overall efficiency and precision of the assembly process:

  • High Torque Density: To accommodate compact designs while delivering high torque for precise electrode handling.
  • High Transmission Accuracy: Required to maintain consistent stacking without alignment errors, which can lead to short circuits or poor battery performance.
  • Fast Response Time: Ensures synchronization with the high-speed operation of the assembly line, especially during high-frequency motion cycles.
  • Robust Environmental Adaptability: Must perform reliably in challenging environments such as high temperatures or low-dust cleanrooms.
  • Long Service Life and Low Maintenance: Minimizes downtime and supports continuous operation in 24/7 manufacturing settings.
  • Compatibility with Modern Servo Systems: Must support a variety of input flanges, mounting configurations, and communication protocols.

Waimica's Worm Gearbox Solution for Servo Rotation Modules:

Waimica has developed a tailored worm gearbox solution specifically for the servo rotation modules in new energy stack assembly systems. Our design approach addresses each of the key challenges in this industry while delivering performance that is comparable to, and in many cases exceeds, that of leading international brands.

Structural Design Highlights:

  • Compact and Space-Efficient: Our worm gearboxes are engineered to minimize footprint, ideal for tight integration into automated assembly lines.
  • Modular Architecture: Enables rapid customization and system integration, supporting diverse production line requirements.
  • Flexible Mounting Options: Includes a variety of mounting styles (flange, foot, and shaft mounting) to adapt to different mechanical layouts.

Performance Specifications:

  • Torque Range: Up to 250 Nm, sufficient for most stacking operations.
  • Backlash: < 3 arcmin, ensuring high positioning accuracy.
  • Efficiency: 70-85% depending on reduction ratio, optimized for energy savings.
  • Input Flange: ISO 9409 standard, compatible with a wide range of servo motors.
  • Speed Ratio Options: 10:1 to 100:1, designed for low-speed high-torque applications typical in stacking systems.

Special Operating Condition Support:

  • High-Temperature Tolerance: With enhanced thermal management and high-grade lubricants, Waimica gearboxes operate reliably at temperatures up to 80°C.
  • Cleanroom-Ready: Available in IP54 to IP67 ratings, with optional sealed bearing housings to meet ISO Class 7 cleanroom standards.
  • Shock and Vibration Resistance: Reinforced housing and precision manufacturing ensure stable operation under dynamic mechanical stress.

Performance Comparison with Leading International Brands:

Parameter Waimica Competitor Brand A Competitor Brand B
Torque Density (Nm/cm³) 0.25 0.23 0.20
Backlash (arcmin) < 3 < 2.5 < 3.2
Efficiency (%) 82 80 75
Operating Temperature (°C) -20 to 80 -10 to 70 -10 to 60
Service Life (hours) 20,000+ 18,000 15,000
Maintenance Interval (hours) 8,000 6,500 5,000
IP Rating IP67 IP66 IP65

Typical Application and Customer Feedback:

A European automotive battery manufacturer required a high-torque, low-backlash transmission system for a high-speed electrode stacker. The existing solution from a well-known brand was too large and required frequent maintenance due to bearing wear, leading to costly downtime and lower production yield.

  • Challenge: High-speed, high-precision electrode stacking in a 24/7 production environment with limited maintenance windows.
  • Waimica's Solution: A custom worm gearbox was designed with ISO 9409 flange, IP67 sealing, and optimized lubrication system for 80°C ambient conditions.
  • Implementation Process:
    • Our engineering team conducted a site visit to analyze the mechanical and thermal load profiles of the system.
    • A 3D model was generated and simulation results were shared with the client to validate performance before production.
    • The gearbox was delivered within 8 weeks with complete integration support from our technicians.
  • Performance Improvement (Before and After Waimica Installation):
Performance Metric Before Waimica After Waimica
Stacking Accuracy (μm) 50 25
System Downtime (per week, hours) 12 2.5
Mean Time Between Maintenance (hours) 5,000 8,000
Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) 78% 89%

Post-implementation feedback from the customer indicated a 35% increase in production stability, a 60% reduction in maintenance-related downtime, and a 20% improvement in system energy efficiency.

Conclusion and Waimica Brand Value:

Waimica’s worm gearbox solutions are designed to meet the evolving demands of new energy stack assembly systems with a focus on precision, compact design, and long-term reliability. By combining advanced engineering with cost-effective manufacturing, we provide a high-performance alternative to traditional international suppliers without compromising on quality or technical capability.

Our core advantages include:

  • Engineering Expertise: Deep domain knowledge in motion control and automation system integration.
  • Customization and Delivery: Rapid prototyping and delivery within 6-10 weeks, with on-site technical support.
  • High ROI: 25-30% cost savings over international counterparts with comparable performance.
  • Long-Term Partnership: We provide lifecycle support, including predictive maintenance and component replacements.

As the new energy manufacturing sector continues to advance, Waimica remains committed to delivering innovative, reliable, and scalable transmission solutions tailored to the unique needs of every customer. We are not just a supplier — we are a strategic partner in your automation success.