Keyway is a mechanical feature in the form of a slot or recess cut into a shaft or a corresponding part, designed to engage with a keyed component to prevent relative rotation between the two connected parts. These slots accommodate keys, which are removable machine elements and are typically rectangular or semicircular in shape. The design of a keyway typically involves precise dimensions and tolerances to ensure a snug fit that allows effective torque transmission and alignment while preventing unwanted axial movement.
In mechanical engineering, keyways and their matching keys are critical for coupling pulleys, gears, and other rotating machine elements to a shaft, securing them in the desired position. The interaction between the keyway and the key distributes the load across the interface, which minimises the stress concentration and wear, thus extending the lifetime of the components. The dimensions and shape of a keyway vary based on industrial standards or custom specifications necessary for specific applications. Keyways are machined using broaching, milling, or slotting methods, depending on the required precision and scale of production. Their design must account for factors like material compatibility, operational torque, and environmental conditions to which they will be exposed. These considerations ensure the keyway's functionality and durability in various mechanical systems.