Everything you need to know about the round-end key

La round end key : the essential element for a solid connection. Discover in this article how the round-ended key, thanks to its rounded end, guarantees an efficient transmission of rotational torque between the shaft and the hub. Explore its advantages, manufacturing process, and differences compared to the standard straight wedge. We produce wedges round toe in accordance with DIN 6885 or NFE 22177 standards, as well as according to the specific plans provided by our customers.

‍What is a round-end key?

The round end key or round end key is generally made of steel or stainless steel to ensure appropriate strength and durability. Its insertion into the groove of the shaft and the hub is done in such a way that the rounded ends avoid damaging the contact surfaces of these elements.

Once in place, the round end key prevents the hub from sliding on the shaft, allowing rotational torque to be transmitted efficiently between the two elements. Its use is common in applications that require the transmission of large loads with back and forth movements, and where precision of alignment is essential to ensure smooth operation without unwanted vibrations.

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Is there a difference between the round end key and the round end key?

The terms”round end key“and”round end keyi” are often used interchangeably to describe a key with a rounded end rather than a square end.

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What is the difference between a round end key and a straight end key?

The main difference between a round end key and a straight end key is the shape of the end of the key. The round-end key has a rounded end, making it easier to insert into the shaft and avoid damage caused by rough insertion. The potential applications of round end key include use in rotating machines such as engines and transmissions, where it is used to connect the shaft to other components.

In most cases, it will be preferable to use a rounded end key rather than a straight end key because it provides better load distribution and reduces shaft wear.

However, there may be situations where a Straight end key may be more suitable. For example, if the shaft already has a square or rectangular hole or if the machine specification requires a square key, a straight end key would be required. In general, the choice of the key will depend on the specifications of the machine, the shape of the shaft, and the load that will be transmitted.

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How do you make a round end key?

The manufacture of a round end key is similar to that of a standard key, but with a different finish. Here are the general manufacturing steps for a round end key:

1. Rolling and drawing: The raw material, usually steel or stainless steel, is rolled and drawn to produce a rectangular or square profile.
2. Milling: Once the rectangular or square profile is obtained, the rounded ends and the length of the key are achieved by a milling operation using appropriately shaped tools.
3. Tribofinishing: After the milling operation, the keys may present burrs and have a rough surface. To improve the surface condition of the parts, a vibratory finishing process is used to obtain a high quality finished product.
4. Quality control: Finally, before being used or marketed, round-end keys must undergo a quality control to ensure that they meet the required specifications and standards. This may include visual inspections, dimensional measurements, and other tests to ensure that the keys comply with quality requirements.

It is important to note that the exact manufacturing steps may vary depending on the specific requirements of the customer.