Determining Keyway Limits: What is the Process?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the process of determining the limits of keyways, particularly focusing on their dimensions and tolerances. Participants explore the relationship between keyways and their application in mechanical assemblies, as well as the resources available for finding standard dimensions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the process for determining keyway limits based on width, indicating a lack of detailed understanding of the topic.
  • Another participant explains that the fit of the key can be critical for maintaining angular relationships during assembly, mentioning different types of keys and their implications for mechanical energy transfer.
  • A further inquiry seeks clarification on what is meant by "limits of keyways," specifically asking if it pertains to dimensions and referencing standard charts used by OEMs.
  • One participant suggests that standard dimensions for keyways can typically be found in standard charts, although the original poster expresses difficulty in locating such resources.
  • A later reply mentions that the "Machinery's Handbook, 28th Edition" contains relevant tables with tolerances for keys and keyseats.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants appear to have varying levels of understanding regarding the topic, and while some provide resources and clarification, there is no consensus on the specific process for determining keyway limits. The discussion remains unresolved in terms of a clear methodology.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference standard charts and resources, but there is uncertainty regarding the availability and specifics of these charts. The discussion also highlights the importance of fit and tolerances in mechanical applications, yet lacks detailed exploration of the underlying principles.

Thragnak
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Hello guys, first post here so don't get mad if I have place it in the wrong area.
Going through one of my lessons earlier I was learning about the limits and fits of holes and shafts, determining the tolerances of certain objects kind of stuff. It was also briefly mentioned that you could determine the limits of keyways by using a similar process, this was not gone into in great detail so I do not really understand it a whole lot. What is the process for determining limits of keyways if you just know the width of it?
I am sorry if I have been a little vague, but I was not sure how else to explain it.
Thanks, Thrag.
 
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Welcome to PF.

There are cases where the joint is tight and the key is only critical during assembly as an angular relationship must be maintained. The accuracy of key fit then decides accuracy of assembly. Often on machine timing shafts a semicircular woodruff key is used with a locking taper shaft coupling. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Key_(engineering)#Woodruff_keys

There are other cases where the key transfers mechanical energy, usually through a long rectangular parallel key. If parallel keys do not fit well in their ways then the movement will repeatedly hammer or slog out the key and/or it's way. This is a very common mode of failure in mechanical equipment. The quality of the machinined fit of shaft, key and pulley decide the lifetime of the equipment. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Key_(engineering)#Parallel_keys

Refine your question if you require a more refined answer.
 
I would say could you explain a bit more on what you mean by the 'limits of keyways' ? Are you talking about its dimensions ? Generally keyways for a certain shaft size are found in standard charts employed by OEMs.
 
I am sorry if it my question wasn't very specific, this is not a topic I know a huge amount on.
Yes I am talking about dimensions, where would I be able to find out more about the standard charts employed by OEM's? I had a quick search but was unable to find anything that seemed related.
Thank you for the links Baluncore, they have really clarified the topic for me!

Cheers,Thrag
 
Machinery's Handbook, 28th Edition, has a section on “Keys And Keyseats”. It includes tables with tolerances.
 

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