gearbox shell

Gearbox Shell / Transmission Bell Housing

Protection · Structural Support · Heat Dissipation · Lubricant Containment
A gearbox shell — also referred to as a transmission bell housing — is an essential component that encloses and protects the gearbox’s internal assembly: gears, shafts, bearings, and other critical parts.
At DSW, we specialise in precision aluminium die casting for gearbox shells and bell housings, delivering superior quality and reliable performance for our customers.

Why Aluminium Gearbox Shells

• Strong Mechanical Properties — Aluminium alloy delivers robust structural strength for demanding applications.
• Lightweight — Much easier to handle and install compared with heavier materials.
• Good Thermal Behaviour — Aluminium supports efficient heat dissipation, beneficial for gearbox longevity.
• Smooth Surface & Easy Machining — Die-cast aluminium normally requires minimal post-processing.
• Durable & Corrosion-resistant — Ideal for long-term service life, even under tough conditions.
• Recyclable — Environmentally friendly and sustainable material choice.

Typical Specifications

• Material: Aluminium alloy (e.g. ADC-12)
• Weight: ~12.5 kg
• Dimensions (L × W × H): 475 mm × 426 mm × 255 mm
• Wall Thickness: Min 3.5 mm, Max 40 mm
• Surface Finish: Shot-blasting (or as specified)
• Tolerance Grade: CT-5 (per ISO-8062)
• Typical Use: Gearbox shell / transmission bell housing / clutch bell housing / bell-case shell

Why Choose DSW

• High Precision & Reliability — Die casting plus CNC machining ensures tight tolerances and smooth gearbox operation.
• Lightweight & Efficient Design — Excellent strength-to-weight ratio, easier installation and lower overall weight.
• Durability & Thermal Management — Good heat dissipation and corrosion resistance for long service life.
• Cost-Effective for Mass Production — Efficient aluminium die casting process for large-volume runs with consistent quality.
• Design Flexibility — Suitable for complex shapes, bell-type housings, thin-wall areas, ribs, bosses — ideal for transmissions, electric drives, industrial gearboxes, etc.

Industry Applications

Aluminum gearbox housings are widely used across multiple industries thanks to their strength, light weight, and excellent thermal performance. In the automotive sector, aluminum gearbox shells and transmission bell cases help reduce vehicle weight while improving durability and fuel efficiency. Clutch bell housings and bell housings are also commonly produced in aluminum to meet the high demands of modern powertrain systems.

Beyond automotive, aluminum gearbox components are increasingly applied in aerospace equipment, industrial machinery, robotics, and high-precision automation systems. These industries rely on aluminum housings to ensure reliable performance, efficient heat dissipation, and long service life under demanding operating conditions.