Top 10 Gear Manufacturing Companies Leading the Industry

Gear manufacturing is at the heart of modern industrial systems. It powers everything from automotive drivetrains to renewable energy turbines. As the global demand for precision-engineered components increases, the pressure on gear manufacturing companies to innovate has never been higher.

Companies are responding with digital tools, sustainability initiatives, and new production techniques. Understanding who leads this transformation is key to grasping where the industry is headed. Below are the ten most influential gear manufacturers in 2025, firms setting global standards and shaping future capabilities.

1. Gleason Corporation – Heritage Meets Modern Integration

Founded in 1865, Gleason is one of the oldest and most respected names in gear manufacturing. The company introduced the first bevel gear planer in the 19th century and has been a pioneer ever since. Today, it offers a complete digital gear ecosystem under its “Total Gear Solutions” framework.

Gleason’s modern operations integrate design, metrology, machining, and automation. These are connected through digital twins and real-time feedback systems. Tools like KISSsoft and Phoenix® machinery enable advanced production and quality control. This setup not only improves precision but also reduces cycle times and rework.

2. Klingelnberg Group – Driving Acoustic Precision in E-Mobility

Germany’s Klingelnberg was founded in 1863 and remains a top-tier player in high-precision gear technology. The firm specializes in bevel and cylindrical gears and is well known for its focus on quality control.

In 2025, Klingelnberg’s latest innovations include the Höfler Speed Viper 300 and the R 300 Gear Noise Finder. These machines deliver automated, high-speed grinding and acoustic testing. With a production footprint of under two square meters, the R 300 supports inline inspection and five different testing methods.

3. ZF Friedrichshafen AG – Transmission Innovation at Scale

ZF Friedrichshafen, founded in 1915, is a global leader in driveline and chassis systems. The company posted revenues of over €41 billion in 2024 and operates in more than 30 countries.

Its gear solutions span automotive, industrial, and renewable energy sectors. ZF is particularly strong in automatic transmissions, hybrid systems, and e-drives. The company also develops components for wind turbines and rail systems.

4. David Brown Santasalo – Custom Gear Systems for Heavy Industry

David Brown Santasalo is a British company with roots dating back to 1860. It serves high-demand sectors such as mining, marine, and defense with tailor-made gearboxes and services.

The company specializes in large torque gear systems, often custom-engineered to meet extreme specifications. It also integrates remote monitoring and digital diagnostics into its units. This allows for improved uptime and proactive maintenance.

5. Elecon Engineering – India’s Gear Technology Pioneer

Founded in 1951, Elecon Engineering is the largest gear manufacturer in Asia. Headquartered in India, it supplies sectors such as power generation, cement, and material handling.

The company is expanding rapidly across the Middle East and Southeast Asia. It recently opened a ₹500 crore R&D center focusing on electric drivetrains and high-performance industrial gears. Elecon is also investing in automation and digital control systems to raise efficiency.

6. Renk Group AG – Engineering Power for Defense and Energy

Renk, based in Germany and established in 1873, delivers gear systems for military vehicles, naval vessels, and industrial turbines. Its equipment operates in extreme conditions and must meet strict defense-grade requirements.

Products include integrated clutches, vibration damping systems, and oil-free running mechanisms. These features are essential for silent naval propulsion and heavy-duty land systems. Renk also manufactures transmission systems for power plants and railways.

7. Reishauer AG – Precision Grinding for Critical Applications

Swiss-based Reishauer, operating since 1788, leads in gear grinding systems. Its technology is vital in sectors like aerospace, where surface quality and tolerances are non-negotiable.

Reishauer’s continuous generating grinding machines produce gears with extremely low roughness and high geometric accuracy. The company also applies AI and IoT systems to monitor and adjust grinding parameters in real time.

8. IGW (Industrial Gears Watteeuw) – Powering Public Transit and Renewables

IGW, founded in Belgium in 1949, focuses on transit and energy gear systems. It supplies parts for rail networks, wind turbines, and industrial engines.

The company blends strong mechanical engineering with digital monitoring tools. Its gearboxes often include vibration sensors and remote diagnostics. These features help operators prevent failures and extend service life.

9. Quaife Engineering – Racing Pedigree Meets High-Tech Manufacturing

Quaife Engineering, a UK firm founded in 1965, builds gearboxes and differentials for performance and motorsport applications. Its products are used in rally cars, GT racing, and electric performance vehicles.

The company offers proprietary technologies like the ATB® differential and sequential gearboxes. It also has a reputation for rapid prototyping and custom builds. Quaife’s niche expertise allows it to serve demanding clients with highly specific needs.

10. DePe Gear Company – Precision Solutions for Industrial OEMs

DePe, based in the UK, specializes in custom industrial gears and components. It supports applications ranging from robotics to heavy machinery.

The company offers spur, bevel, and helical gears from 10 mm to 2.5 meters. It also provides CNC machining, hardening, assembly, and inspection. DePe’s focus is on short-run, high-mix production for OEMs requiring fast turnaround and high quality.

These ten gear manufacturing companies represent the best in global engineering, innovation, and industrial reliability. Each has evolved to meet changing market demands through digital systems, custom manufacturing, and global service networks.

As the gear sector embraces electrification, automation, and sustainability, these firms are setting the pace. Whether you’re sourcing components, investing in technology, or tracking trends in manufacturing, this list provides a valuable benchmark.

Their leadership signals where the future of gear manufacturing is headed: smarter, cleaner, and more connected than ever before.