Woodruff keys DIN 6888

1. Product description

Woodruff keys according to DIN 6888 are flat, semicircular machine elements that are fitted into axially oriented grooves of shafts and hubs. This arrangement enables the secure transmission of axial movements and torques. The main features of these woodruff keys include their primary application, where they form a positive-locking connection between a shaft and a rotatable element such as a gear, a coupling, or a lever. Here, the exact fit ensures the efficient transmission of torque. As a rule, woodruff keys are made of durable steel or stainless steel to provide high strength and load capacity. The DIN 6888 standard ensures precise dimensions to guarantee a perfect fit in standardized shaft-key combinations, which includes widths, heights, and lengths. The essential function lies in safely transmitting forces and torques by transferring torsional moments without noticeable play. Additionally, the standard supports compatibility between different manufacturers, making it easier to integrate woodruff keys into a wide range of technical applications.

2. Product details

Size: 1x1,4 - 10x16

Material group: Steel, stainless steel

Surface: bright

Width b: 1 - 10

Height h: 1,4 - 16

Length l: 3,82 - 43,08

3. Application Areas & Compatibility

Woodruff keys DIN 6888 are indispensable in many industrial applications as they provide reliable, positive connections between shafts and hubs to ensure safe transmission of torque. Here are some application areas in detail:

General mechanical engineering: In this field, woodruff keys are essential for connecting moving parts in a wide variety of machines. They ensure stability and precision in torque transmission, which is crucial for the efficiency and service life of machines.

Machine tool construction: Exact and high-strength connections are necessary here to guarantee the accuracy of machine movements. Woodruff keys provide the required strength and precision when coupling rotating components.

Agricultural technology: In agricultural machines and equipment, such as tractors and attachments, woodruff keys are used to ensure robust and reliable connections that can withstand the harsh conditions of fieldwork.

Ship technology: In the maritime industry, they are part of the drive system, where they provide the necessary torque transmission and reliability between the engine and propeller shaft, even under high loads and adverse environmental conditions.

Construction: Cranes, lifting equipment, and other construction machinery use woodruff keys to transmit movements and forces efficiently and safely while maintaining mechanical integrity.

Compatibility: Regarding compatibility, the standardized dimensions of DIN 6888 ensure that woodruff keys are easily interchangeable between manufacturers. This greatly facilitates maintenance and replacement in existing systems, as no modifications to shafts or hubs are necessary. This makes them particularly attractive for designers as they reduce planning and maintenance effort and increase flexibility when selecting components.

4. Advantages and Benefits

Woodruff keys DIN 6888 offer numerous advantages and benefits, making them an essential component in many industrial applications:

Easy integration: Thanks to their standardized dimensions, Woodruff keys can be easily integrated into existing systems without the need for modifications to shafts or hubs. This enables efficient and trouble-free assembly.

Reliable torque transmission: They ensure a secure, positive-locking connection that transmits high torques without significant play. This increases the efficiency and performance of machines.

Material: Manufacturing from high-quality steel provides high strength and load capacity, ensuring the durability of the connection. Optionally, the use of corrosion-resistant materials can be considered to increase durability in demanding environments.

Cost effectiveness: Thanks to standardization and simple interchangeability during maintenance, total operating costs are reduced. Downtime can be minimized, which reduces production losses.

Versatility: They can be used in various industries, such as mechanical engineering, construction, or marine engineering, and meet similar demands for precision and load capacity everywhere.

Cross-manufacturer compatibility: The DIN 6888 standard guarantees that components from different manufacturers can be combined without problems, increasing flexibility in sourcing and maintenance.

Robust and reliable connections: Standardization ensures consistent quality and performance, improving safety in mechanical applications.

Overall, woodruff keys DIN 6888 offer not only technical and economic advantages but also high flexibility and reliability in many industrial applications and design plans.

5. Assembly and Installation

An assembly and installation manual for woodruff keys DIN 6888 includes several steps to ensure safe and efficient installation:

Preparation

1. Checking the components:
   • Ensure that the shaft and the hub have the correct keyseat dimensions as specified in DIN 6888.
   • Check the woodruff key for damage and make sure it has the correct size and shape.
2. Cleaning:
   • Thoroughly clean the shaft, hub, and woodruff key to remove dirt, oil, and other contaminants. This is essential for a secure fit.

Assembly

1. Positioning the woodruff key:
   • Align the woodruff key with the keyseat in the shaft. Make sure the keyseat is free from burrs that could affect the fit.
2. Inserting the woodruff key:
   • Slide the Woodruff key axially into the seat of the shaft, applying even pressure to avoid tilting.
   • If necessary, a light hammer tap may be used; ensure a protective layer such as wood or plastic is placed between the hammer and the key to avoid damage.
3. Mounting the hub:
   • Align the keyseat of the hub with the Woodruff key on the shaft.
   • Carefully slide the hub onto the shaft so that the Woodruff key is inserted into both keyseats.
   • Ensure that the hub is fully seated on the shaft and the Woodruff key is correctly positioned in both keyseats.

Post-assembly check

1. Check the fit:
   • Verify the secure fit of the hub and the Woodruff key. There should be no movement or play.
   • Test the torque transmission to ensure full functionality.
2. Safety instructions:
   • Ensure that all connections meet safety requirements, especially when mechanical loads are high.
   • Regular inspection and maintenance are recommended to ensure the longevity of the connection system.

6. Safety instructions & Standards

Safety instructions

Tool usage:

• Use suitable tools to avoid damaging the woodruff key, shaft, or hub.
• Ensure that tools such as hammers or assembly aids are used properly.

Inspection of components:

• Before assembly, all components should be checked for integrity and correct dimensions to prevent malfunctions due to unsuitable or damaged parts.

Proper fit:

• Ensure that the woodruff key fits properly in the slots, as improper installation can affect the durability and safety of the system.

Relevant standards

DIN 6888: This standard specifies the dimensions and tolerances for woodruff keys and ensures compatibility with the corresponding slot dimensions in shafts and hubs.

DIN ISO 2768: This standard specifies general tolerances for length and angle dimensions, form, and position, which is also relevant for the production of components including woodruff keys.

Maintenance and inspection

Regular inspections of mechanical connections are recommended to ensure that the woodruff key and the connected parts are in perfect condition, which is particularly important in safety-critical applications.

These instructions and standards not only ensure a safe working environment but also contribute to the longevity and reliability of the mechanical connections in which woodruff keys DIN 6888 are used.