Can I contact factories directly on CNFX?

CNFX is an open directory. Each factory profile provides direct contact information.

Rack Teeth Component – Motor Vehicle Manufacturing

Component Specifications

Definition

Rack teeth are the linear gear teeth machined onto a steering rack component in rack-and-pinion steering systems. These teeth engage with the helical teeth of a pinion gear connected to the steering column. When the driver turns the steering wheel, the pinion rotates, causing the rack to move laterally along its axis. This linear motion is transmitted through tie rods to the steering knuckles, ultimately turning the vehicle's wheels. The geometry, pitch, pressure angle, and surface finish of rack teeth are critical for smooth operation, minimal backlash, precise steering response, and durability under varying loads.

Working Principle

The rack teeth operate on the principle of a rack-and-pinion mechanism, converting the rotational motion of the pinion gear (driven by the steering wheel) into linear motion of the rack. This linear displacement directly controls the angle of the front wheels via the tie rods and steering knuckles, enabling directional control of the vehicle.

Materials

Typically made from case-hardened alloy steels such as 20MnCr5, SAE 8620, or similar grades to achieve a hard, wear-resistant surface (58-62 HRC) with a tough, ductile core. Alternative materials may include powder metallurgy steels or, for some applications, engineered plastics for reduced weight and noise.

Technical Parameters

Pitch Linear pitch corresponding to module
Length Varies by vehicle (typically 300-600 mm)
Module 1.5 to 3.0 mm
Backlash 0.05-0.15 mm
Core Hardness 30-40 HRC
Tooth Profile Involute or modified involute
Pressure Angle 20° or 14.5°
Surface Finish Ra ≤ 0.8 μm
Surface Hardness 58-62 HRC
Straightness Tolerance ≤ 0.1 mm over full length

Standards

ISO 4156, DIN 3960, DIN 3961, ISO 1328, SAE J1124

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Rack Teeth.

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Pitman Arm (for recirculating-ball type) or Rack (for rack-and-pinion integration)

A critical linkage component in a vehicle's steering system that converts the rotational motion from the steering gearbox into lateral motion to turn the wheels.

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Tooth wear leading to steering play
Tooth chipping or fracture under impact loads
Corrosion in harsh environments
Misalignment causing uneven wear and noise
Inadequate lubrication accelerating wear

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Insufficient or degraded lubrication
Failure: Accelerated abrasive wear on tooth surfaces
Mitigation: Use sealed systems with lifetime lubricants; specify regular inspection intervals; apply wear-resistant coatings.

Trigger: Misalignment between rack and pinion
Failure: Uneven tooth contact, leading to localized wear and noise
Mitigation: Ensure precise machining and assembly tolerances; use alignment fixtures during installation.

Trigger: Overload or impact from road shocks
Failure: Tooth bending, chipping, or fracture
Mitigation: Design with adequate safety factors; use materials with high core toughness; implement overload protection in steering design.

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Rack-and-pinion steering systems in passenger vehicles, light trucks, and some heavy vehicles

Interchangeable Parts

ZF Friedrichshafen, Bosch, JTEKT, NSK, Nexteer Automotive, ThyssenKrupp

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

Tooth profile tolerance per ISO 1328 Grade 6-7; linear pitch tolerance ±0.02 mm; cumulative pitch error ≤ 0.05 mm over 100 mm

Test Method

Coordinate measuring machine (CMM) for geometry; hardness testing (Rockwell C) for surface and core; profilometry for surface finish; functional testing in steering gear assembly for backlash and smoothness.

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

Not customer reviews or live demand data. These dimensions support RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

4/5

Manufacturing capability

4/5

Inspection readiness

5/5

Supplier transparency

3/5

These scores are example evaluation dimensions, not real customer ratings, country-specific buyer feedback, or live inquiry activity.

Related Components

Current Sensor

Current sensor for measuring electrical current flow in automotive battery management systems

Isolation Monitor

An automotive BMS component that continuously monitors electrical isolation between high-voltage battery systems and vehicle chassis to prevent electric shock hazards.

Balancing Circuit

Electronic circuit in automotive BMS that equalizes voltage across battery cells to optimize performance and lifespan.

Communication Transceiver

A bidirectional communication transceiver for automotive BMS enabling data exchange between battery cells and control units.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the function of rack teeth in a steering system?

Rack teeth convert the rotational motion from the pinion gear (connected to the steering wheel) into linear motion, allowing the rack to move side-to-side and turn the vehicle's wheels.

Why are rack teeth case-hardened?

Case hardening provides a hard, wear-resistant surface to withstand constant meshing with the pinion gear, while maintaining a tough core to absorb shock loads and prevent brittle fracture.

What causes wear on rack teeth?

Wear can result from inadequate lubrication, contamination (dirt, debris), misalignment, excessive loads, or material fatigue over time, leading to increased backlash and reduced steering precision.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

Data Basis

CNFX manufacturer profiles, technical classification, publicly available product information, and ongoing plausibility checks.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Rack Teeth