Types of Sunk Key

Sunk Key: Types, Advantages, Disadvantages, Uses | What is Shaft Key?

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In this article, we will learn what is sunk key? Its types, advantages, disadvantages, uses, etc.
Before understanding what a sunk key is, it’s crucial to grasp the concepts of a shaft key and a keyway. This foundational knowledge will enhance our understanding of all aspects related to the sunk key.
Shaft Keys are mainly of two types first one is sunk key and the second one is saddle key.
Here, we exclusively focus on sunk keys, so without further delay, let’s dive right in.

What is Shaft Key?

When rotating a pulley, gear, etc., via a machine’s shaft, a shaft key serves to establish the connection between the pulley, gear, and the shaft.

By connecting the gear and pulley with a shaft key, both components effectively merge, ensuring that when one part rotates, the other rotates concurrently.

Typically crafted from steel, the shaft key is consistently fitted parallel to the axis of the shaft.

Considered a type of temporary fastener, the shaft key plays a crucial role in facilitating the rotational connection between various components.

What is Keyway?

The groove in which the shaft key fits is called keyway.
Half of the keyway is inserted into the shaft, and the remaining half is fitted into the pulley or gear. This arrangement ensures that the key maintains a secure grip on both the shaft and the pulley or gear.

What is Sunk Key?

A sunk key is a type of key where one-half of the key is inserted into the keyway of the pulley, while the remaining half is situated within the keyway of the shaft.

Types of Sunk Key

There are mainly seven types of sunk keys are used:
  • Gib Head Key
  • Feather Key
  • Woodruff Key
  • Parallel Sunk Key
  • Rectangular or Flat Key
  • Square Key
  • Round or Circular Key
See in the figure different types of sunk keys which are described below in detail.
Types of Sunk Key
Types of Sunk Key

 

Gib Head Key

This type of sunk key features a head at one end known as the Gib Head.

The key can be effortlessly applied or removed by gripping this head.

In this sunk key variant, the head serves to minimize the impact of the hammer, thereby preventing damage to the shaft.

The gib head key exhibits a taper ratio of 1:100 in thickness.

Primarily utilized for securely fastening gears and pulleys onto the shaft, these keys play a crucial role in ensuring a tight and reliable connection.

Feather Key

It is rectangular.
It is not a taper but is equal in length and width.
It allows relative axial movement between the shaft and hub and keeps the parallel parts of the axis free.
These types of keys are mostly used with gears or clutches.

Woodruff Key

The upper portion of the Woodruff key has a flat surface, while the lower section is semicircular.

The Woodruff key possesses the ability to tilt and align itself in accordance with the shaft.

To accommodate the Woodruff key, the keyway needs to be deeper, ensuring a secure fit and preventing any slippage between the shaft and hub.

Primarily employed to enhance the concentricity of the shaft during high-speed rotation, Woodruff keys play a crucial role in maintaining stability.

Parallel Sunk Key

Parallel sunk keys come in either rectangular or square sections, lacking any taper.

These keys are cost-effective and readily accessible.

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Parallel keys find extensive use in the manufacturing and automotive sectors, thanks to their affordability and straightforward installation process.

Rectangular or Flat Key

Rectangular keys, also known as flat keys, have a width greater than their height.

They are commonly recommended for shafts with a diameter of around 20 inches.

Square Key

Square keys, as the name suggests, have a square cross-sectional shape and are suitable for larger shafts.

In square sunk keys, the width and thickness dimensions are equal.

These keys are commonly recommended for shafts with a diameter ranging from 0.25 to 1.0 inches, although larger square keys are also available for shafts up to 6.5 inches in diameter.

Round or Circular Key

Circular keys have a round cross-sectional shape and are partially inserted into both the hub holes and the shaft.

A significant advantage of using round keys is that their key drill can be re-drilled after assembling the mating parts.

These keys are typically well-suited for low-power drives.

The round key has a taper of 1:50.

Advantages of Sunk Key

  • The sunk key exhibits a high power transmission capacity compared to other types of keys.
  • It provides a positive drive, ensuring that no slipping occurs.

Disadvantages of Sunk Key 

As the keyway is incorporated into both the shaft and the hub, the overall cost is higher.

Uses of Sunk Key

  • Sunk keys find applications in various industrial machinery.
  • especially in machine tool settings.

I trust that I have provided comprehensive information on the “sunk key.” Should you have any further doubts or questions about this topic, feel free to reach out to me directly or inquire through the comments. I am committed to responding promptly.

Read also: Types of Cutting Tool Materials and Their Properties

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