Metal mechanical timers usually contain a precision gear system inside, which transmit power and time information by biting each other. However, as the use time increases, the teeth of the gears will gradually wear, resulting in an increase in the fit clearance, which in turn affects the stability and accuracy of the gear transmission. In addition, wear and deformation of the gear shaft may also cause timing errors.
The mainspring is the main power source of the timer, while the hairspring is used to control the vibration frequency of the balance wheel. After long-term use, the mainspring may relax due to fatigue, resulting in a weakened driving force; the hairspring may deform due to stress concentration, thus affecting the vibration period and timing accuracy of the balance wheel.
The thermal expansion and contraction characteristics of metal materials can cause changes in the size and shape of the internal parts of the timer, especially key components such as hairsprings and balance wheels. These changes will directly affect the accuracy of the timer. In addition, temperature fluctuations may also cause changes in the performance of the lubricating oil, thereby affecting the lubrication effect.
In a humid environment, the metal parts inside the timer are prone to oxidation and corrosion, resulting in increased surface roughness and larger fit clearance, which affects the timing accuracy. At the same time, corrosion may also damage the mechanical properties of parts, resulting in an increased failure rate of the timer. A strong magnetic field environment can interfere with the magnetic material inside the timer, causing the hairspring to deform or generate additional stress. This deformation can change the vibration frequency of the balance wheel, thereby affecting the timing accuracy.
The lubricating oil inside the timer may gradually evaporate or deteriorate after long-term use, resulting in a weakened lubrication effect. This will increase friction and wear between parts, thereby affecting timing accuracy. In addition, lack of lubrication may also cause parts to overheat, deform, or even get stuck. As the use time increases, wear marks and oxide layers will gradually form between the parts inside the timer, resulting in an increase in the friction coefficient. This will not only reduce the transmission efficiency, but also accelerate the wear and aging of parts.
If the user fails to set the time correctly or fails to operate according to the instructions during use, it may cause abnormal wear or damage to the internal parts of the timer. For example, frequent adjustments to the time setting may accelerate the wear of the gears; excessive vibration or impact may cause parts to loosen or deform. Failure to clean and lubricate for a long time will cause dust and impurities to accumulate inside the timer, affecting the normal operation and matching accuracy of the parts. At the same time, lack of maintenance may also lead to increased friction between parts, accelerated wear, and increased failure rates.