Self-locking is the inability of a gearbox to be driven backwards by its load. In other words, self-locking gearboxes cannot be driven from the output shaft, either through a power source or an external torque load. The ability for a gearbox to lock is related to its efficiency. The higher its efficiency, the less likely it is to lock. Because worm reducers are generally less efficient than other gear types, they are often used where locking is desirable.
A rule of thumb is that higher ratios may lock, however, there are too many factors that can influence the ability for a reducer to lock, including: ratio, lube type, load applied, service factor, in-service time, ambient temperature, input speed, altitude, other external loads applied, etc.
When it comes to utilizing a gearbox as a holding or braking device, there is more gray area than black and white. Application concerns have been witnessed where a 60:1 to 80:1 single reduction worm reducer was utilized in a lifting application without a brake. After several cycles, the load can start to creep downwards.
Because of the uncertainties with locking gear sets: NO GEARBOX SHOULD BE CONSIDERED SELF-LOCKING