Keyways – Standardized shaft-hub connections for mechanical engineering
Keyways are essential machine components that enable a positive-fit connection between shafts and hubs. As a specialized manufacturer, we produce all standard keyway types in accordance with DIN 6885 and factory standards, as well as custom dimensions in all common materials, with or without heat treatment. Our extensive machine park, equipped with state-of-the-art CNC milling technology, guarantees flexible and cost-effective production—even for custom requests that require special heat treatments.
What are keyways?
Keyways are standardized machine components used to transmit torque between a rotating shaft and an attached component—such as a gear, a pulley, or a coupling. The keyway connection represents the simplest, most secure, and most cost-effective shaft-hub connection. Keys are considered the most commonly used connecting elements in traditional mechanical and plant engineering. This is primarily due to their simple design and high interchangeability.
Standards and Standardization of Keyways
Keyways are primarily standardized according to DIN 6885. This standard defines the dimensions of keyways—namely width, height, and length—the end face shape of keyways, the tolerances for keyways and keyways, and the correspondence between keyway sizes and shaft diameters. In addition, DIN 6892 is important for defining the calculation and design of keyed connections—particularly with regard to surface pressure and transmissible torques. International variants are regulated by various ISO standards, most of which are compatible with the DIN system. Special dimensions are, of course, also possible regardless of common standards.
What shapes and types of keyways are available?
The shape of the key primarily affects ease of installation, but has no impact on the basic function of torque transmission.
Interesting facts about our keyways
Available sizes
| Width | b | 2 – 150 mm |
| Height | h | 8 – 80 mm |
| Länge | l | 4 – 700 mm |
What are the dimensions and tolerances for keyways?
The dimensions and tolerances of keyways are determined by the shaft diameter. Cross-sections ranging from just a few millimeters to several centimeters are possible, depending on the intended application. The width and height of keyways are generally standardized, while the length can be customized—but fully custom-made designs are also possible to meet all technical requirements. To ensure that the key fits securely despite the wide range of dimensions, precise tolerances are crucial: Keys typically have an h9 tolerance, while keyways in shafts and hubs are often produced with P9 or N9 tolerances.
In which industries are keyways used?
Keyways play a key role in nearly all areas of mechanical engineering. They are particularly common in drive technology, conveyor systems, machine tools, and agricultural and construction machinery, but they are also essential for the versatile operation of pumps and gearboxes. Our keyways also play a role in railway technology, where they are primarily used in railcars and trains.
What are the advantages of keyways?
Keyways are a simple and cost-effective design that enables seamless interaction between shafts and hubs. Since they are standardized parts, keyways can generally be used worldwide. They ensure easy installation and removal, thereby enabling efficient operation of all machines and gearboxes. Since no special tools are required for their use, they are considered true all-rounders—and are highly maintenance-friendly.
Buy keyways to DIN 6885 and custom-made products online
Looking to buy keyways online? We offer not only standard keyways to DIN 6885 at competitive prices, but also custom-made products tailored precisely to your needs.
We have specialized in the manufacture of components for gearboxes, machinery, and railway technology since 1955 and thus have a wealth of experience in CNC machining. Thanks to a wide range of available materials and production resources, we offer our customers a high degree of flexibility and can fulfill nearly any customer request in a time- and cost-efficient manner.
We keep nearly all necessary raw materials in stock, so even custom-made keyways can be produced within a short time. We maintain a high level of precision and always adhere to customer and drawing specifications—ensuring your satisfaction and that your machines run flawlessly. Do you have any questions about our keyways? Feel free to contact us directly via our contact form.