In which type of steering system is the worm gear used?

The worm gear is primarily used in the recirculating ball steering system. This type of steering mechanism employs a worm gear that meshes with a set of ball bearings within a housing. The design allows for more precise movement and control of the steering than a simple gear arrangement. As the steering wheel is turned, the worm gear rotates, moving the balls in a circular motion through a threaded path. This movement translates to linear movement that ultimately turns the vehicle's wheels.

The use of the worm gear in this system provides advantages such as reduced friction and wear, as well as the ability to effectively convert the rotational motion of the steering wheel into the necessary angular motion for the steering linkage, offering better feedback and efficiency. While other steering systems like rack and pinion steering or hydraulic steering utilize different mechanisms, the recirculating ball steering stands out for its inclusion of the worm gear.