In this article, you will learn what is saddle key as well as their types, advantages, disadvantages, and uses.
In a previous article I have already discussed all about sunk key here we only know about saddle key.
Saddle keys are a type of shaft that fits onto the shaft surface without a keyway. Fitting it on the shaft only requires a keyway on the hub.
What is Saddle Key?
A saddle key is simply mounted on the shaft and inserted into the keyway which is provided only in the hub. Keyway in the shaft is not required.
Saddle keys are used for very light loads.
To fit the saddle key, the groove is made in the pulley only. The grip of the saddle key is due to friction on the shaft.
These types of keys are rarely used in industry because they are not able to provide high torque and load.
Working Principle of Saddle Key
The working principle of a saddle key is based on the friction between two surfaces that is responsible for the transmission of power.
Types of Saddle Key
There are two types of saddle keys:
- Hollow Saddle Key
- Flat Saddle Key
Hollow Saddle Key
A hollow saddle key is mounted on the shaft only.
In a hollow saddle key, the lower part of the key is made hollow, this hollow part holds the shaft firmly due to friction.
Hollow saddle keys are used for very light loads.
It is used as a temporary fastener in eccentrics and cams.
The bottom of the key is shaped to fit the curved surface of the shaft.
Hollow saddle keys can be used for relatively larger loads than flat saddle keys because hollow saddle key has large friction between the key & shaft.
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| Hollow Saddle Key |
Clearly seen in the figure there is a taper of 1: 100 in key.
The key size proportion of the hollow Saddle key is given below:
Let the diameter of the shaft = d,
Then,
Width of key, w = d/4
Thickness of key, t =d/12
Length of key, I = 1.4 d to 3d
Flat Saddle Key
A flat saddle key is mounted on the shaft only as a keyway is not required in the shaft. The entire key fits into the hub.
The motion is transmitted due to friction between the key and the shaft. It is used to transmit light loads.
In a flat saddle key, the key remains flat, and the part of the shaft on which the key fits is made flat.
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| Flat Saddle Key |
See in the figure here is also provided a taper of 1: 100 in key.
The size proportion of the flat key is as follows:
Let the diameter of the shaft d
Then,
Width of the key, w = d/4
Thickness of the key, t = d/12
Length of the key, l = 1.4 d to 3d
Advantages of Saddle Key
In the saddle key the manufacturing and implementation cost is low and also the implementation process is easier than in other types of key.
Disadvantages of Saddle Key
- Saddle keys are primarily used for low-duty work or transmissions.
- It can not handle much slip-resistant.
So, I hope I've covered everything about the "saddle key". If you still have any doubts or questions about the saddle key, you can mail me or ask via comments, I will definitely reply to you as soon as possible.
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Thank You.
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