Free Involute Gear Generator for Laser & CNC
Designing functional, interlocking gears for mechanical projects is a complex engineering task. Our Pro Involute Gear Generator mathematically calculates perfect metric gear profiles directly in your web browser. Export clean SVG vectors for laser cutters (like LightBurn) or DXF files for CNC routers and 3D printing software.
Understanding Gear Parameters
To create gears that mesh perfectly, you need to understand three core variables:
- Module (Metric Standard): The Module determines the physical size of the gear teeth. For two gears to mesh and turn each other without jamming, they must have the exact same Module. A larger module means bigger, stronger teeth.
- Number of Teeth: By changing the number of teeth while keeping the module the same, you change the overall diameter of the gear. This is how you create gear ratios (e.g., a 10-tooth gear driving a 30-tooth gear gives a 3:1 ratio).
- Pressure Angle: This dictates the slope of the gear tooth. 20° is the modern industry standard, providing a great balance of strength and smooth power transmission. 14.5° was historically popular but is weaker. Gears must have matching pressure angles to mesh.
Center Bore & Keyways
You aren't just generating the outer profile. You can automatically cut a precise center shaft hole. Need it to lock onto a motor shaft? Toggle the Keyway option to add a perfectly measured square notch to the bore.
Clean Vector Exports
The SVG files are generated with a single continuous path using non-scaling strokes, meaning they will import into laser software like LightBurn exactly at the scale you generated them. No resizing required.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate the distance between two gears?
To find the exact center-to-center distance required for two gears to mesh perfectly, simply add their Pitch Diameters together and divide by 2. Formula: (Pitch Dia A + Pitch Dia B) / 2 = Center Distance. The pitch diameter is dynamically displayed in the bottom left of the blueprint canvas as you adjust settings.
What is an "Involute" gear?
An involute profile is a specific mathematical curve used for modern gear teeth. It ensures that as the gears turn, the point of contact between them moves in a straight line. This guarantees constant rotational speed and smooth, quiet operation compared to older, triangular gear shapes.