Issuing body
API
Latest edition
5th Edition (2003, R2018)
Region
USA, Global
Equipment items
1
Scope
Single- and double-helical, parallel-shaft, one- or two-stage speed-increasing or -reducing gear units.
Key requirements (8)
- Special-purpose gear units for petroleum, chemical, gas service.
- Service factor: minimum 1.4 (API minimum) — typical 1.5–1.8.
- Single-helical or double-helical (herringbone) tooth form.
- AGMA quality grade Q12 minimum (high precision).
- Mechanical run test: 4 hours at maximum continuous speed.
- Lube oil: API 614 system; oil flow ≥ 4× heat removal need at design.
- Vibration limits per API 670.
- Backlash: minimum specified to prevent excessive thermal seizure.
Applied to 1 equipment item
Rotating Equipment