What is a Splined Shaft?

Splined Shafts are crucial for the production of many items as well as machinery in many industries. Splines are ridges or teeth on a drive shaft that mesh with grooves in a mating piece and transfer torque to it. Splined Shafts are available in an array of lengths and diameters, materials and can even vary in types of grooves. The main difference between splines and Keys is that splines are integral with the shaft with usually four or more splines on a shaft.

How does a Splined Shaft work?

Splined Shafts can easily handle high rotation speeds and deliver torque. The ridged structure of Splined Shafts make it much easier to deliver more torque than other shafts, as they have an equal distribution of load across every teeth or groove. The load capacity of a Splined Shaft must be enough to carry the force across the axis, so it can transfer the torque. The load capacity should be perfectly balanced, i.e. neither too heavy or too light.

What does a Splined Shaft look like?

A splined shaft has a number of equally spaced grooves cut in the shaft, forming a series of projecting keys. These fit into an internally grooved cylindrical member, such as a matched Splined Bush. Splined Shafts are made using high-quality carbon steel to help provide a reliable and smooth motion. Stainless steel Spline Shafts are the best option to provide tensile strength whilst also preventing corrosion.