Planetary gearbox
FAULHABER GPT planetary gearheads gearbox
All-metal planetary gearhead family from 14 to 42 mm with very fine ratio steps, plus high-torque (HT) and low-noise (LN) versions.
Key specifications
| Outer diameter | 14–42 mm |
|---|---|
| Rated torque (max) | 18 Nm |
| Ratio | 3–1,437:1 |
Summarised in our own words from Dr. Fritz Faulhaber GmbH & Co. KG's published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-29. Source 1 · Source 2
Notes on this data
Continuous torque up to 0.4 Nm (14GPT) to 18 Nm (42GPT); 32GPT HT 10 Nm. Ratios 3.3-1437 (14/16/20GPT), 3-1294 (22/32/42GPT). Backlash described only as 'minimal' - no figure published, so backlash_arcmin_max left out.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with Dr. Fritz Faulhaber GmbH & Co. KG. FAULHABER and GPT planetary gearheads are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
Alternatives that meet or exceed these figures
Engineers often come to us with a FAULHABER part number and leave with an alternative that is easier to source, quicker to deliver or a better fit for the machine. These 3 series from our supply network are the closest match on published figures.
Apex Dynamics economy planetary family (PE, PG, PA, PS, PN, PD, PL sub-series) for high-volume automation; standard backlash, inline or right-angle.
| Published maximum | GPT planetary gearheads | P-II / P-IIR |
|---|---|---|
| Rated torque | 18 Nm | 459 Nm meets or exceeds |
| Ratio (max) | 1,437:1 | 1,000:1 |
High-rigidity Wanshsin inline planetary with three backlash classes down to super-precision, for machine tools, automation and AGVs.
| Published maximum | GPT planetary gearheads | WSH |
|---|---|---|
| Rated torque | 18 Nm | 2,400 Nm meets or exceeds |
| Peak torque | — | 7,200 Nm |
| Ratio (max) | 1,437:1 | 100:1 |
| Backlash (lower is better) | — | 1.5 arcmin |
Wanshsin inline planetary designed for high radial loads, offered in three precision classes.
| Published maximum | GPT planetary gearheads | WTH |
|---|---|---|
| Rated torque | 18 Nm | 2,050 Nm meets or exceeds |
| Peak torque | — | 6,150 Nm |
| Ratio (max) | 1,437:1 | 100:1 |
| Backlash (lower is better) | — | 1.5 arcmin |
Figures are the highest published for each series and are not always measured the same way. A higher figure is not automatically a better choice: mounting, duty cycle, feedback, connectors and approvals matter too. An engineer will check the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What a planetary gearbox is
A planetary gearbox reduces speed and multiplies torque using a central sun gear driven by the motor, several planet gears on a carrier, and an outer ring gear. Load is shared between the planets, so the gearbox is compact, coaxial and torque-dense. A single stage typically gives ratios of about 3:1 to 10:1, and stages are combined for higher ratios. Precision servo planetaries use ground helical or spur gears, preloaded output bearings and a motor adapter flange, with backlash typically a few arcminutes or less.
When engineers choose a planetary gearbox
Choose a planetary gearbox for most servo and stepper axes that need more torque, lower reflected inertia or a better inertia match. It is efficient, typically above 95% per stage, stiff and widely available in standard frames. The trade-offs are backlash, which is low but not zero, and limited single-stage ratio. For zero backlash in a compact joint, a strain-wave gear suits better. For very high shock loads, a cycloidal reducer may be more robust.
How to specify the FAULHABER GPT planetary gearheads
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right GPT planetary gearheads variant or an equivalent:
- Ratio and output speed (:1, rpm)
- Nominal and peak output torque (Nm)
- Emergency stop torque (Nm)
- Backlash (arcmin) and torsional stiffness (Nm/arcmin)
- Radial and axial output loads (N)
- Motor flange, shaft diameter and length (mm)
- Duty cycle, mounting orientation and lubrication
Common mistakes to avoid
- Sizing on motor torque times ratio without checking acceleration torque and service factors
- Ignoring the input speed limit at high motor speeds
- Mounting a pulley or pinion that overloads the output bearing
- Forgetting the gearbox efficiency and heat in continuous duty
FAULHABER GPT planetary gearheads: frequently asked questions
What is the FAULHABER GPT planetary gearheads?
All-metal planetary gearhead family from 14 to 42 mm with very fine ratio steps, plus high-torque (HT) and low-noise (LN) versions. Published series figures include outer diameter 14 mm, outer diameter 42 mm, rated torque 18 Nm, ratio 3:1. It is made by Dr. Fritz Faulhaber GmbH & Co. KG; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the FAULHABER GPT planetary gearheads?
The FAULHABER GPT planetary gearheads is made by FAULHABER (Dr. Fritz Faulhaber GmbH & Co. KG) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with Dr. Fritz Faulhaber GmbH & Co. KG; brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the outer diameter of the FAULHABER GPT planetary gearheads?
The published series minimum outer diameter is 14 mm. Individual models and sizes in the GPT planetary gearheads range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
Is there an alternative to the FAULHABER GPT planetary gearheads?
Yes. On published figures, APEX Dynamics P-II / P-IIR and Wanshsin WSH are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
How do I choose a planetary gearbox ratio?
Start from the load speed and motor speed range, then check inertia matching and torque. A ratio that brings the reflected load inertia close to the motor inertia improves dynamics. Then confirm peak output torque during acceleration is within the gearbox rating and that input speed stays under the limit.
What backlash does a precision planetary gearbox have?
Precision servo planetary gearboxes typically have backlash from below one arcminute to several arcminutes, depending on grade and stages. Lower backlash costs more. For most positioning axes, a few arcminutes is fine; for robot joints or optics, strain-wave or zero-backlash designs are used.
Further reading: How to select a planetary gearbox · Harmonic vs planetary vs cycloidal · Gearboxes and harmonic drives
Other planetary gearbox series
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