Turntable
Design
Call us
(02) 9170 0698
Pin-Gear
with PUE turntables
Friction
with other providers
TURNTABLES
Friction Drive vs Pin-Gear Drive (which is better?)
Pin-Gear Drive Turntables
At the heart of every PowerUp car turntable sits our advanced Pin-Gear Drive system. This system provides a strong and reliable alternative to traditional friction drive technology.
Unlike standard drive methods, the Pin-Gear Drive uses a positive mechanical connection to rotate the turntable. As a result, it delivers smooth and controlled movement during operation.
The system works especially well for low-speed, heavy-duty applications. It also performs reliably in challenging environments, including areas with high dust levels or limited lubrication.
In addition, the robust design helps reduce wear on key components. This allows our car turntables to provide long-term durability, consistent performance, and improved reliability.
Watch a video here: Turntable w/ Pin-Gear Drive on the PowerUp YouTube Channel
- Eliminates Friction Wheel Slip: Traditional friction drives can slip, as a result this will lead to inconsistent performance. The Pin-Gear Drive does not have this problem.
- No Need for Spring Adjustments: a friction drive system would require frequent adjustments to their springs, which means the springs can weaken. The Pin-Gear Drive eliminates this need.
- Fewer Moving Parts: With fewer components to service, the Pin-Gear Drive system is easier to maintain. This makes our turntables a practical choice for long-term reliability.
Friction Drive Turntables
On the other hand, friction drive mechanism turntables are supplied by other Australian Turntable suppliers, the friction drive turntable operates by using the force generated through the contact between the drive wheel and the surface of the turntable platform.
- Drive Wheel: The friction drive car turntable features one (or more depending on size) motorized wheels positioned strategically underneath the platform. These wheels are driven by the electric motor(s).
- Contact / Friction: When the car turntable is moving, the drive wheel makes direct contact with the underside or edge of the turntable surface. The friction between the wheel and the surface transfers the rotational force from the motor to the turntable.
- Brakes: To stop the turntable at the desired position, the drive mechanism decelerates and engages braking mechanisms to halt the rotation.
- (Dis)Advantages: Friction drives are simple and cost-effective. However, their efficiency is usually affected by the wear & tear, dirt, and even moisture, which may reduce friction and affect performance over time. Leading to expensive service and replacement of parts.
This type of friction drive turntable would be more suitable for lighter-duty applications, but it may not be ideal for environments with high loads or heavy-duty (think vehicles).
