Gear Drive Dampers for Low-Torque Automatic Airflow Control
Air Systems’ patented rack-and-gear drive dampers use aerospace-grade 6061-T6 aluminum blades to reduce operating torque and actuator count in new and retrofit installations.
Bolted weldless construction ships with actuator and limit switches factory-mounted — over 1,000 units in service for 13+ years with zero replacements.
Call 248-549-1105
- Max Temperature
- 150°FRated operating temperature
- Track Record
- Zero Replacements1,000+ units in service, 13+ years
- Actuation
- Electric · PneumaticFewer, smaller actuators
- Materials
- Materials of Construction6061-T6 Aluminum, Stainless Steel
New installations and retrofits — air supply intake, airflow balancing, volume control, face and bypass, multi-zone control, and pressure relief — where reducing actuator torque and cost matters.
How Gear Drive Dampers Are Built & Configured
Standard multi-blade dampers need high-torque actuators because blade weight and friction compound across the opening. Our patented rack-and-gear drive distributes torque across the blade assembly, so fewer and smaller actuators can operate large openings.
- 01 Patented rack-and-gear drive significantly reduces operating torque
- 02 Modular openings up to 72" x 252" on a single actuator
- 03 Insulated frame option prevents condensation
- 04 Extruded 6061-T6 aluminum blades cut weight without losing strength
- 05 Weldless bolted construction — no field welding or touch-up paint
- 06 Stainless steel frames with anodized aluminum blade options for corrosion resistance
Why Air Systems
Most automatic damper designs treat torque as fixed and size the actuator around it. We engineered and patented a design that reduces the torque requirement at the source, lowering installed cost on new projects and fitting retrofits where actuator size is limited.
Developed and manufactured in-house in Royal Oak, Michigan, with direct control over drawing turnaround and delivery. Quote turnaround within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum operating temperature for a gear drive damper?
The maximum temperature rating is 150°F.
Can gear drive dampers be built in modular sections for large openings?
Yes. A 72" x 252" damper has been supplied in three connected sections operating on a single pneumatic or electric actuator.
Can a gear drive damper be fabricated with stainless steel components?
Stainless steel frames are available; blades and shafts use extruded 6061-T6 aluminum, with anodized components available for added corrosion resistance.
Can the gear drive damper frame be insulated?
Yes, an insulated frame design is available to prevent condensation issues.
Get a Gear Drive Damper Built to Your Application
Provide your duct dimensions, operating temperature, airstream type, and actuation preference and get a detailed quote within 24 hours. New installations and retrofits are both handled in-house.
- Duct dimensions and opening size
- Operating temperature and airstream type
- Actuation preference (electric or pneumatic)
- Detailed quote within 24 hours
Send Us a Sketch
Give us the duct diameter and a photo or sketch — we'll spec your damper. Detailed quote within 24 hours.
We don't share your information. A factory application engineer will follow up directly.