Which material is commonly used in the manufacturing of gears?

Steel is commonly used in the manufacturing of gears due to its exceptional strength, durability, and ability to withstand significant loads and stresses. Steel gears can exhibit precise tooth profiles and are capable of maintaining their shape and functionality even under high torque conditions. This is essential in applications where reliability and efficiency are paramount, such as in automotive transmissions, industrial machinery, and various mechanical systems.

In contrast, while aluminum and plastic may be used for specific applications—such as lightweight gears for less demanding tasks—they do not offer the same level of strength and durability as steel. Wood, although historically used for some gears, has largely fallen out of favor in modern mechanical design due to its variable properties and lower resistance to wear and tear. Thus, steel remains the preferred choice for most gear manufacturing applications due to its overall mechanical properties and performance characteristics.