Enhanced Fatigue Life of Hypoid Gears with Precision Shot Peening

The effects of different shot peening parameters on the fatigue life of rear axle hypoid pinion gears were evaluated. Shot hardness, shot size, intensity, shot velocity and prior heat treatment were studied and compared to current production. Metallurgical analysis of the carburized SAE 4320 gears along with residual stress gradient analysis at tooth root fillets were performed. The results showed that significant fatigue life enhancement can be achieved by precision shot peening (directed, air nozzle type) and proper determination and tight tolerance of shot peening process parameters and heat treatment.