Structured Manufacturing Data (2026)

Sector Gear / Recirculating Ball Nut

Based on aggregated insights from structured factory profiles within the CNFX directory, the standard Sector Gear / Recirculating Ball Nut used in the Motor Vehicle Manufacturing sector typically supports operational capacities ranging from standard industrial configurations to heavy-duty production requirements.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A canonical Sector Gear / Recirculating Ball Nut is characterized by the integration of Sector Gear and Recirculating Ball Nut. In industrial production environments, manufacturers listed on CNFX commonly emphasize Alloy Steel construction to support stable, high-cycle operation across diverse manufacturing scenarios.

A critical steering gearbox component that converts rotational motion from the steering shaft into linear motion to turn the vehicle's wheels.

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Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Sector Gear / Recirculating Ball Nut

Definition
The sector gear/recirculating ball nut is a precision mechanical assembly within the steering gearbox that serves as the interface between the steering input and output. The recirculating ball nut converts the rotational motion of the steering shaft into linear motion along the worm gear, while the sector gear meshes with the rack (or pitman arm in recirculating ball systems) to translate this linear motion into the angular movement required to turn the vehicle's wheels.
Working Principle
As the steering wheel turns, it rotates the steering shaft connected to a worm gear. The recirculating ball nut, containing ball bearings that circulate in grooves between the nut and worm gear, moves linearly along the worm gear with minimal friction. This linear motion is transferred to the sector gear, which pivots to actuate the steering linkage, ultimately turning the wheels.
Common Materials
Alloy Steel, Case-Hardened Steel, Chrome Steel (for balls)
Technical Parameters
  • Pitch diameter and module of the sector gear teeth; ball circuit diameter and lead of the recirculating ball nut (mm) Per Request
Components / BOM
  • Sector Gear Part
    Meshes with rack or pitman arm to convert linear motion into rotational output for steering linkage
    Material: Case-Hardened Alloy Steel
  • Recirculating Ball Nut
    Converts rotational input from worm gear into linear motion via circulating ball bearings
    Material: Alloy Steel
  • Ball Bearings Part
    Reduce friction between worm gear and nut, enabling smooth motion transfer
    Material: Chrome Steel
  • Ball Return Guide Part
    Directs balls back into the circulating path within the nut
    Material: Steel or Polymer

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Sector Gear / Recirculating Ball Nut.

Steering Sector Gear Recirculating Ball Screw Nut Worm and Sector Assembly automotive steering sector gear assembly recirculating ball nut steering component heavy-duty vehicle steering gearbox parts case-hardened steel sector gear replacement ball return guide for steering systems

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Steering Gearbox
View system integration details

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Up to 20 MPa (200 bar) continuous, 25 MPa peak
other spec: Max axial load: 50 kN, Max rotational speed: 3000 RPM, Backlash: <0.1 mm
temperature: -40°C to 120°C (operational), -50°C to 150°C (storage)
Media Compatibility
✓ Automotive power steering fluid (ATF-based) ✓ Synthetic hydraulic oil (ISO VG 32-68) ✓ Grease-lubricated dry environments
Unsuitable: Saltwater/marine environments without corrosion-resistant coatings
Sizing Data Required
  • Required axial force (kN)
  • Maximum operating speed (RPM)
  • Available installation envelope (length × diameter in mm)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Backlash and Positioning Inaccuracy
Cause: Wear on ball tracks and nut threads due to inadequate lubrication, contamination ingress, or excessive axial loads causing ball deformation and loss of preload.
Ball Recirculation Failure
Cause: Jamming or fracture of recirculation components (e.g., deflectors, return tubes) from debris accumulation, improper assembly, or material fatigue under cyclic stress.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Audible grinding or clicking noises during operation, indicating ball track damage or recirculation obstruction.
  • Increased rotational torque or erratic movement, suggesting binding from contamination, lubrication breakdown, or mechanical wear.
Engineering Tips
  • Implement strict contamination control: use sealed housings, high-quality filters on lubrication systems, and regular cleaning to prevent abrasive particles from entering the ball-nut interface.
  • Optimize lubrication schedule with manufacturer-recommended grease or oil, ensuring proper viscosity and additives for load distribution and corrosion resistance, while monitoring for degradation.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Reference Standards
ISO 3408-1:2006 (Ball screws - Part 1: Vocabulary and designation) DIN 69051-1:2018 (Ball screw drives - Part 1: General characteristics and acceptance conditions) ANSI/ASME B5.48-1977 (Ball Screws)
Manufacturing Precision
  • Lead accuracy: ±0.01 mm per 300 mm travel
  • Ball nut backlash: ≤0.005 mm
Quality Inspection
  • Hardness testing (Rockwell C scale) for ball screw and nut materials
  • Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) verification of critical dimensions and geometry

Factories Producing Sector Gear / Recirculating Ball Nut

Manufacturer profiles with relevant production capability in China

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Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a sector gear in steering systems?

The sector gear converts rotational motion from the steering shaft into linear motion through the recirculating ball nut mechanism, enabling precise wheel turning in motor vehicles.

Why are recirculating ball nuts preferred in heavy-duty vehicle steering?

Recirculating ball nuts provide low friction, high efficiency, and durability under heavy loads, making them ideal for trucks, buses, and industrial vehicles where steering precision and longevity are critical.

What maintenance is required for sector gear and ball nut assemblies?

Regular lubrication inspection and periodic replacement of ball bearings are essential. Case-hardened steel components typically require minimal maintenance but should be checked for wear during routine vehicle servicing.

Can I contact factories directly on CNFX?

CNFX is an open directory, not a transaction platform. Each factory profile provides direct contact information and production details to help you initiate direct inquiries with Chinese suppliers.

Data basis: CNFX manufacturer profiles, technical classification, publicly available product information, and ongoing plausibility checks for Motor Vehicle Manufacturing.

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.

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