2342 KEYS AND KEYSEATS

KEYS AND KEYSEATS

ANSI Standard Keys and Keyseats.—American National Standard, B17.1 Keys and
Keyseats, based on current industry practice, was approved in 1967, and reaffirmed in
1989. This standard establishes a uniform relationship between shaft sizes and key sizes
for parallel and taper keys as shown in Table 1. Other data in this standard are given in
Tables 2 and 3 through 7. The sizes and tolerances shown are for single key applications
only.
The following definitions are given in the standard:
Key: A demountable machinery part which, when assembled into keyseats, provides a
positive means for transmitting torque between the shaft and hub.
Keyseat: An axially located rectangular groove in a shaft or hub.
This standard recognizes that there are two classes of stock for parallel keys used by
industry. One is a close, plus toleranced key stock and the other is a broad, negative toler-
anced bar stock. Based on the use of two types of stock, two classes of fit are shown:
Class 1: A clearance or metal-to-metal side fit obtained by using bar stock keys and key-
seat tolerances as given in Table 4. This is a relatively free fit and applies only to parallel
keys.
Class 2: A side fit, with possible interference or clearance, obtained by using key stock
and keyseat tolerances as given in Table 4. This is a relatively tight fit.
Class 3: This is an interference side fit and is not tabulated in Table 4 since the degree of
interference has not been standardized. However, it is suggested that the top and bottom fit
range given under Class 2 in Table 4, for parallel keys be used.
Table 1. Key Size Versus Shaft Diameter ANSI B17.1-1967 (R1998)
Nominal Shaft Diameter Nominal Key Size Normal Keyseat Depth
Height, H H/2
Over To (Incl.) Width, W Square Rectangular Square Rectangular
5⁄
16
7⁄
16
3⁄
32
3⁄
32
… 3⁄
64
…
7⁄ 9⁄ 1⁄ 1⁄ 3⁄ 1⁄ 3⁄
16 16 8 8 32 16 64
9⁄ 7⁄ 3⁄ 3⁄ 1⁄ 3⁄ 1⁄
16 8 16 16 8 32 16
7⁄ 11⁄4 1⁄ 1⁄ 3⁄ 1⁄ 3⁄
8 4 4 16 8 32

11⁄4 13⁄8 5⁄
16
5⁄
16
1⁄
4
5⁄
32
1⁄
8

13⁄8 13⁄4 3⁄
8
3⁄
8
1⁄
4
3⁄
16
1⁄
8

13⁄4 21⁄4 1⁄
2
1⁄
2
3⁄
8
1⁄
4
3⁄
16

21⁄4 23⁄4 5⁄
8
5⁄
8
7⁄
16
5⁄
16
7⁄
32

23⁄4 31⁄4 3⁄
4
3⁄
4
1⁄
2
3⁄
8
1⁄
4

31⁄4 33⁄4 7⁄
8
7⁄
8
5⁄
8
7⁄
16
5⁄
16

33⁄4 41⁄2 1 1 3⁄
4
1⁄
2
3⁄
8

41⁄2 51⁄2 11⁄4 11⁄4 7⁄

8
5⁄
8
7⁄
16

51⁄2 61⁄2 11⁄2 11⁄2 1 3⁄

4
1⁄
2

Square Keys preferred for shaft diameters above this line; rectangular keys, below
61⁄2 71⁄2 13⁄4 13⁄4 11⁄2a 7⁄
8
3⁄
4

71⁄2 9 2 2 11⁄2 1 3⁄
4
9 11 21⁄2 21⁄2 13⁄4 11⁄4 7⁄
8

a Some key standards show 11⁄ inches; preferred height is 11⁄ inches.
4 2
All dimensions are given in inches. For larger shaft sizes, see ANSI Standard Woodruff Keys and
Keyseats.
Key Size vs. Shaft Diameter: Shaft diameters are listed in Table 1 for identification of
various key sizes and are not intended to establish shaft dimensions, tolerances or selec-
tions. For a stepped shaft, the size of a key is determined by the diameter of the shaft at the
 KEYS AND KEYSEATS 2343

point of location of the key. Up through 61⁄2-inch diameter shafts square keys are preferred;
rectangular keys are preferred for larger shafts.
If special considerations dictate the use of a keyseat in the hub shallower than the pre-
ferred nominal depth shown, it is recommended that the tabulated preferred nominal stan-
dard keyseat always be used in the shaft.
Keyseat Alignment Tolerances: A tolerance of 0.010 inch, max is provided for offset
(due to parallel displacement of keyseat centerline from centerline of shaft or bore) of key-
seats in shaft and bore. The following tolerances for maximum lead (due to angular dis-
placement of keyseat centerline from centerline of shaft or bore and measured at right
angles to the shaft or bore centerline) of keyseats in shaft and bore are specified: 0.002 inch
for keyseat length up to and including 4 inches; 0.0005 inch per inch of length for keyseat
lengths above 4 inches to and including 10 inches; and 0.005 inch for keyseat lengths
above 10 inches. For the effect of keyways on shaft strength, see Effect of Keyways on Shaft
Strength on page 283.
Table 2. Depth Control Values S and T for Shaft and Hub
ANSI B17.1-1967 (R1998)

T T
S

Parallel and Taper Parallel Taper

Nominal Square Rectangular Square Rectangular Square Rectangular
Shaft
Diameter S S T T T T
1⁄ 0.430 0.445 0.560 0.544 0.535 0.519
2
9⁄ 0.493 0.509 0.623 0.607 0.598 0.582
16
5⁄ 0.517 0.548 0.709 0.678 0.684 0.653
8
11⁄ 0.581 0.612 0.773 0.742 0.748 0.717
16
3⁄ 0.644 0.676 0.837 0.806 0.812 0.781
4
13⁄ 0.708 0.739 0.900 0.869 0.875 0.844
16
7⁄ 0.771 0.802 0.964 0.932 0.939 0.907
8
15⁄ 0.796 0.827 1.051 1.019 1.026 0.994
16
1 0.859 0.890 1.114 1.083 1.089 1.058
11⁄16 0.923 0.954 1.178 1.146 1.153 1.121
11⁄8 0.986 1.017 1.241 1.210 1.216 1.185
13⁄16 1.049 1.080 1.304 1.273 1.279 1.248
11⁄4 1.112 1.144 1.367 1.336 1.342 1.311
15⁄16 1.137 1.169 1.455 1.424 1.430 1.399
13⁄8 1.201 1.232 1.518 1.487 1.493 1.462
17⁄16 1.225 1.288 1.605 1.543 1.580 1.518
11⁄2 1.289 1.351 1.669 1.606 1.644 1.581
19⁄16 1.352 1.415 1.732 1.670 1.707 1.645
15⁄8 1.416 1.478 1.796 1.733 1.771 1.708
111⁄16 1.479 1.541 1.859 1.796 1.834 1.771
13⁄4 1.542 1.605 1.922 1.860 1.897 1.835
113⁄16 1.527 1.590 2.032 1.970 2.007 1.945
17⁄8 1.591 1.654 2.096 2.034 2.071 2.009
115⁄16 1.655 1.717 2.160 2.097 2.135 2.072
2 1.718 1.781 2.223 2.161 2.198 2.136
21⁄16 1.782 1.844 2.287 2.224 2.262 2.199
21⁄8 1.845 1.908 2.350 2.288 2.325 2.263
23⁄16 1.909 1.971 2.414 2.351 2.389 2.326
21⁄4 1.972 2.034 2.477 2.414 2.452 2.389
25⁄16 1.957 2.051 2.587 2.493 2.562 2.468
23⁄8 2.021 2.114 2.651 2.557 2.626 2.532
2344 KEYS AND KEYSEATS

Table 2. (Continued) Depth Control Values S and T for Shaft and Hub
ANSI B17.1-1967 (R1998)
27⁄16 2.084 2.178 2.714 2.621 2.689 2.596
21⁄2 2.148 2.242 2.778 2.684 2.753 2.659
29⁄16 2.211 2.305 2.841 2.748 2.816 2.723
25⁄8 2.275 2.369 2.905 2.811 2.880 2.786
211⁄16 2.338 2.432 2.968 2.874 2.943 2.849
23⁄4 2.402 2.495 3.032 2.938 3.007 2.913
213⁄16 2.387 2.512 3.142 3.017 3.117 2.992
27⁄8 2.450 2.575 3.205 3.080 3.180 3.055
215⁄16 2.514 2.639 3.269 3.144 3.244 3.119
3 2.577 2.702 3.332 3.207 3.307 3.182
31⁄16 2.641 2.766 3.396 3.271 3.371 3.246
31⁄8 2.704 2.829 3.459 3.334 3.434 3.309
33⁄16 2.768 2.893 3.523 3.398 3.498 3.373
31⁄4 2.831 2.956 3.586 3.461 3.561 3.436
35⁄16 2.816 2.941 3.696 3.571 3.671 3.546
33⁄8 2.880 3.005 3.760 3.635 3.735 3.610
37⁄16 2.943 3.068 3.823 3.698 3.798 3.673
31⁄2 3.007 3.132 3.887 3.762 3.862 3.737
39⁄16 3.070 3.195 3.950 3.825 3.925 3.800
35⁄8 3.134 3.259 4.014 3.889 3.989 3.864
311⁄16 3.197 3.322 4.077 3.952 4.052 3.927
33⁄4 3.261 3.386 4.141 4.016 4.116 3.991
313⁄16 3.246 3.371 4.251 4.126 4.226 4.101
37⁄8 3.309 3.434 4.314 4.189 4.289 4.164
315⁄16 3.373 3.498 4.378 4.253 4.353 4.228
4 3.436 3.561 4.441 4.316 4.416 4.291
43⁄16 3.627 3.752 4.632 4.507 4.607 4.482
41⁄4 3.690 3.815 4.695 4.570 4.670 4.545
43⁄8 3.817 3.942 4.822 4.697 4.797 4.672
47⁄16 3.880 4.005 4.885 4.760 4.860 4.735
41⁄2 3.944 4.069 4.949 4.824 4.924 4.799
43⁄4 4.041 4.229 5.296 5.109 5.271 5.084
47⁄8 4.169 4.356 5.424 5.236 5.399 5.211
415⁄16 4.232 4.422 5.487 5.300 5.462 5.275
5 4.296 4.483 5.551 5.363 5.526 5.338
53⁄16 4.486 4.674 5.741 5.554 5.716 5.529
51⁄4 4.550 4.737 5.805 5.617 5.780 5.592
57⁄16 4.740 4.927 5.995 5.807 5.970 5.782
51⁄2 4.803 4.991 6.058 5.871 6.033 5.846
53⁄4 4.900 5.150 6.405 6.155 6.380 6.130
515⁄16 5.091 5.341 6.596 6.346 6.571 6.321
6 5.155 5.405 6.660 6.410 6.635 6.385
61⁄4 5.409 5.659 6.914 6.664 6.889 6.639
61⁄2 5.662 5.912 7.167 6.917 7.142 6.892
63⁄4 5.760 a5.885 7.515 a7.390 7.490 a7.365

7 6.014 a6.139 7.769 a7.644 7.744 a7.619

71⁄4 6.268 a6.393 8.023 a7.898 7.998 a7.873

71⁄2 6.521 a6.646 8.276 a8.151 8.251 a8.126

73⁄4 6.619 6.869 8.624 8.374 8.599 8.349

8 6.873 7.123 8.878 8.628 8.853 8.603
9 7.887 8.137 9.892 9.642 9.867 9.617
10 8.591 8.966 11.096 10.721 11.071 10.696
11 9.606 9.981 12.111 11.736 12.086 11.711
12 10.309 10.809 13.314 12.814 13.289 12.789
13 11.325 11.825 14.330 13.830 14.305 13.805
14 12.028 12.528 15.533 15.033 15.508 15.008
15 13.043 13.543 16.548 16.048 16.523 16.023
a 13⁄ × 11⁄ inch key.
4 2
All dimensions are given in inches. See Table 4 for tolerances.
 KEYS AND KEYSEATS 2345

Table 3. ANSI Standard Plain and Gib Head Keys ANSI B17.1-1967 (R1998)

Nominal Key Size

Width W Tolerance
Key Over To (Incl.) Width, W Height, H
… 11⁄4 +0.001 −0.000 +0.001 −0.000
Keystock 11⁄4 3 +0.002 −0.000 +0.002 −0.000
3 31⁄2 +0.003 −0.000 +0.003 −0.000
Square … 3⁄
4 +0.000 −0.002 +0.000 −0.002
3⁄
4 11⁄2 +0.000 −0.003 +0.000 −0.003
Bar Stock
11⁄2 2 ⁄2
1 +0.000 −0.004 +0.000 −0.004
2 ⁄2
1 31⁄2 +0.000 −0.006 +0.000 −0.006
Parallel … 11⁄4 +0.001 −0.000 +0.005 −0.005
Keystock 11⁄4 3 +0.002 −0.000 +0.005 −0.005
3 7 +0.003 −0.000 +0.005 −0.005
… 3⁄
4 +0.000 −0.003 +0.000 −0.003
Rectangular 3⁄
4 11⁄2 +0.000 −0.004 +0.000 −0.004
11⁄2 3 +0.000 −0.005 +0.000 −0.005
Bar Stock
3 4 +0.000 −0.006 +0.000 −0.006
4 6 +0.000 −0.008 +0.000 −0.008
6 7 +0.000 −0.013 +0.000 −0.013
… 11⁄4 +0.001 −0.000 +0.005 −0.000
Plain or Gib Head
Taper 11⁄4 3 +0.002 −0.000 +0.005 −0.000
Square or Rectangular
3 7 +0.003 −0.000 +0.005 −0.000
Gib Head Nominal Dimensions
Nominal Square Rectangular Nominal Square Rectangular
Key Size Key Size
Width, W H A B H A B Width, W H A B H A B
1⁄ 1⁄ 1⁄ 1⁄ 3⁄ 3⁄ 1⁄ 1 1 15⁄8 11⁄8 3⁄ 11⁄4 7⁄
8 8 4 4 32 16 8 4 8
3⁄ 3⁄ 5⁄ 5⁄ 1⁄ 1⁄ 1⁄ 11⁄4 11⁄4 2 17⁄16 7⁄ 13⁄8 1
16 16 16 16 8 4 4 8
1⁄ 1⁄ 7⁄ 3⁄ 3⁄ 5⁄ 5⁄ 11⁄2 11⁄2 23⁄8 13⁄4 1 15⁄8 11⁄8
4 4 16 8 16 16 16
5⁄ 5⁄ 1⁄ 7⁄ 1⁄ 7⁄ 3⁄ 13⁄4 13⁄4 23⁄4 2 11⁄2 23⁄8 13⁄4
16 16 2 16 4 16 8
3⁄ 3⁄ 5⁄ 1⁄ 1⁄ 7⁄ 3⁄ 2 2 31⁄2 21⁄4 11⁄2 23⁄8 13⁄4
8 8 8 2 4 16 8
1⁄ 1⁄ 7⁄ 5⁄ 3⁄ 5⁄ 1⁄ 21⁄2 21⁄2 4 3 13⁄4 23⁄4 2
2 2 8 8 8 8 2
5⁄ 5⁄ 1 3⁄ 7⁄ 3⁄ 9⁄ 3 3 5 31⁄2 2 31⁄2 21⁄4
8 8 4 16 4 16
3⁄ 3⁄ 11⁄4 7⁄ 1⁄ 7⁄ 5⁄ 31⁄2 31⁄2 6 4 21⁄2 4 3
4 4 8 2 8 8
7⁄
8
7⁄
8 13⁄8 1 5⁄
8 1 3⁄
4 … … … … … … …

All dimensions are given in inches.

*For locating position of dimension H. Tolerance does not apply.
For larger sizes the following relationships are suggested as guides for establishing A and B: A =
1.8H and B = 1.2H.
2346 KEYS AND KEYSEATS

Table 4. ANSI Standard Fits for Parallel and Taper Keys ANSI B17.1-1967 (R1998)
Key Width Side Fit Top and Bottom Fit
Type Width Tolerance Depth Tolerance
of To Fit Shaft Hub Fit
Key Over (Incl.) Key Key-Seat Rangea Key Key-Seat Key-Seat Rangea
Class 1 Fit for Parallel Keys

1⁄ +0.000 +0.002 0.004 CL +0.000 +0.000 +0.010 0.032 CL

… 2
−0.002 −0.000 0.000 −0.002 −0.015 −0.000 0.005 CL
1⁄ 3⁄ +0.000 +0.003 0.005 CL +0.000 +0.000 +0.010 0.032 CL
2 4
−0.002 −0.000 0.000 −0.002 −0.015 −0.000 0.005 CL
3⁄ +0.000 +0.003 0.006 CL +0.000 +0.000 +0.010 0.033 CL
1
4
−0.003 −0.000 0.000 −0.003 −0.015 −0.000 0.005 CL
Square
+0.000 +0.004 0.007 CL +0.000 +0.000 +0.010 0.033 CL
1 11⁄2
−0.003 −0.000 0.000 −0.003 −0.015 −0.000 0.005 CL
+0.000 +0.004 0.008 CL +0.000 +0.000 +0.010 0.034 CL
11⁄2 21⁄2
−0.004 −0.000 0.000 −0.004 −0.015 −0.000 0.005 CL
+0.000 +0.004 0.010 CL +0.000 +0.000 +0.010 0.036 CL
21⁄2 31⁄2
−0.006 −0.000 0.000 −0.006 −0.015 −0.000 0.005 CL
1⁄ +0.000 +0.002 0.005 CL +0.000 +0.000 +0.010 0.033 CL
… 2
−0.003 −0.000 0.000 −0.003 −0.015 −0.000 0.005 CL
1⁄ 3⁄ +0.000 +0.003 0.006 CL +0.000 +0.000 +0.010 0.033 CL
2 4
−0.003 −0.000 0.000 −0.003 −0.015 −0.000 0.005 CL
3⁄ +0.000 +0.003 0.007 CL +0.000 +0.000 +0.010 0.034 CL
1
4
−0.004 −0.000 0.000 −0.004 −0.015 −0.000 0.005 CL
+0.000 +0.004 0.008 CL +0.000 +0.000 +0.010 0.034 CL
1 11⁄2
Rectan- −0.004 −0.000 0.000 −0.004 −0.015 −0.000 0.005 CL
gular +0.000 +0.004 0.009 CL +0.000 +0.000 +0.010 0.035 CL
11⁄2 3
−0.005 −0.000 0.000 −0.005 −0.015 −0.000 0.005 CL
+0.000 +0.004 0.010 CL +0.000 +0.000 +0.010 0.036 CL
3 4
−0.006 −0.000 0.000 −0.006 −0.015 −0.000 0.005 CL
+0.000 +0.004 0.012 CL +0.000 +0.000 +0.010 0.038 CL
4 6
−0.008 −0.000 0.000 −0.008 −0.015 −0.000 0.005 CL
+0.000 +0.004 0.017 CL +0.000 +0.000 +0.010 0.043 CL
6 7
−0.013 −0.000 0.000 −0.013 −0.015 −0.000 0.005 CL
Class 2 Fit for Parallel and Taper Keys
+0.001 +0.002 0.002 CL +0.001 +0.000 +0.010 0.030 CL
… 11⁄4
−0.000 −0.000 0.001 INT −0.000 −0.015 −0.000 0.004 CL
Parallel +0.002 +0.002 0.002 CL +0.002 +0.000 +0.010 0.030 CL
11⁄4 3
Square −0.000 −0.000 0.002 INT −0.000 −0.015 −0.000 0.003 CL
+0.003 +0.002 0.002 CL +0.003 +0.000 +0.010 0.030 CL
3 31⁄2
−0.000 −0.000 0.003 INT −0.000 −0.015 −0.000 0.002 CL
+0.001 +0.002 0.002 CL +0.005 +0.000 +0.010 0.035 CL
… 11⁄4
−0.000 −0.000 0.001 INT −0.005 −0.015 −0.000 0.000 CL
Parallel +0.002 +0.002 0.002 CL +0.005 +0.000 +0.010 0.035 CL
Rectan- 11⁄4 3
gular −0.000 −0.000 0.002 INT −0.005 −0.015 −0.000 0.000 CL
+0.003 +0.002 0.002 CL +0.005 +0.000 +0.010 0.035 CL
3 7
−0.000 −0.000 0.003 INT −0.005 −0.015 −0.000 0.000 CL
+0.001 +0.002 0.002 CL +0.005 +0.000 +0.010 0.005 CL
… 11⁄4
−0.000 −0.000 0.001 INT −0.000 −0.015 −0.000 0.025 INT
+0.002 +0.002 0.002 CL +0.005 +0.000 +0.010 0.005 CL
Taper 11⁄4 3
−0.000 −0.000 0.002 INT −0.000 −0.015 −0.000 0.025 INT
b
+0.003 +0.002 0.002 CL +0.005 +0.000 +0.010 0.005 CL
3
−0.000 −0.000 0.003 INT −0.000 −0.015 −0.000 0.025 INT
a Limits of variation. CL = Clearance; INT = Interference.
b To (Incl.) 31⁄ -inch Square and 7-inch Rectangular key widths.
2
All dimensions are given in inches. See also text on page 2342.
 KEYS AND KEYSEATS 2347

Table 5. Suggested Keyseat Fillet Radius and Key Chamfer

ANSI B17.1-1967 (R1998)
Keyseat Depth, H/2 Keyseat Depth, H2
Fillet 45 deg. Fillet 45 deg.
Over To (Incl.) Radius Chamfer Over To (Incl.) Radius Chamfer
1⁄ 1⁄ 1⁄ 3⁄ 7⁄ 11⁄4 3⁄ 7⁄
8 4 32 64 8 16 32

1⁄ 1⁄ 1⁄ 5⁄ 11⁄4 13⁄4 1⁄ 9⁄
4 2 16 64 4 32

1⁄ 7⁄ 1⁄ 5⁄ 13⁄4 21⁄2 3⁄ 13⁄

2 8 8 32 8 32

All dimensions are given in inches.

Table 6. ANSI Standard Keyseat Tolerances for Electric Motor and Generator Shaft
Extensions ANSI B17.1-1967 (R1998)
Keyseat Width
Over To (Incl.) Width Tolerance Depth Tolerance
… 1⁄
4
+0.001 +0.000

−0.001 −0.015
1⁄
4
3⁄
4
+0.000 +0.000

−0.002 −0.015
3⁄
4 11⁄4 +0.000 +0.000

−0.003 −0.015

All dimensions are given in inches.

Table 7. Set Screws for Use Over Keys ANSI B17.1-1967 (R1998)
Nom. Shaft Diam. Nom. Set Nom. Shaft Diam. Nom. Set
Key Screw Key Screw
Over To (Incl.) Width Diam. Over To (Incl.) Width Diam.
5⁄ 7⁄ 3⁄ No. 10 21⁄4 23⁄4 5⁄ 1⁄
16 16 32 8 2
7⁄ 9⁄ 1⁄ No. 10 23⁄4 31⁄4 3⁄ 5⁄
16 16 8 4 8
9⁄ 7⁄ 3⁄ 1⁄ 31⁄4 33⁄4 7⁄ 3⁄
16 8 16 4 8 4
7⁄ 11⁄4 1⁄ 5⁄ 33⁄4 41⁄2 1 3⁄
8 4 16 4

11⁄4 13⁄8 5⁄
16
3⁄
8 41⁄2 51⁄2 11⁄4 7⁄
8

13⁄8 13⁄4 3⁄
8
3⁄
8 51⁄2 61⁄2 11⁄2 1
13⁄4 21⁄4 1⁄
2
1⁄
2
… … … …

All dimensions are given in inches.

These set screw diameter selections are offered as a guide but their use should be dependent upon
design considerations.

ANSI Standard Woodruff Keys and Keyseats.—American National Standard B17.2

was approved in 1967, and reaffirmed in 1990. Data from this standard are shown in Tables
8, 9, and 10.
2348 KEYS AND KEYSEATS

Table 8. ANSI Standard Woodruff Keys ANSI B17.2-1967 (R1998)

Nominal Actual Length F Height of Key Distance

Key Key Size +0.000 C D Below
No. WXB −0.010 Max. Min. Max. Min. Center E
1⁄ × 1⁄ 1⁄
202 16 4 0.248 0.109 0.104 0.109 0.104 64
202.5 1⁄ × 5⁄ 0.311 0.140 0.135 0.140 0.135 1⁄
16 16 64
302.5 3⁄ × 5⁄ 0.311 0.140 0.135 0.140 0.135 1⁄
32 16 64
203 1⁄ × 3⁄ 0.374 0.172 0.167 0.172 0.167 1⁄
16 8 64
303 3⁄ × 3⁄ 0.374 0.172 0.167 0.172 0.167 1⁄
32 8 64
403 1⁄ × 3⁄ 0.374 0.172 0.167 0.172 0.167 1⁄
8 8 64
204 1⁄ × 1⁄ 0.491 0.203 0.198 0.194 0.188 3⁄
16 2 64
304 3⁄ × 1⁄ 0.491 0.203 0.198 0.194 0.188 3⁄
32 2 64
404 1⁄ × 1⁄ 0.491 0.203 0.198 0.194 0.188 3⁄
8 2 64
305 3⁄ × 5⁄ 0.612 0.250 0.245 0.240 0.234 1⁄
32 8 16
405 1⁄ × 5⁄ 0.612 0.250 0.245 0.240 0.234 1⁄
8 8 16
505 5⁄ × 5⁄ 0.612 0.250 0.245 0.240 0.234 1⁄
32 8 16
605 3⁄ × 5⁄ 0.612 0.250 0.245 0.240 0.234 1⁄
16 8 16
406 1⁄ × 3⁄ 0.740 0.313 0.308 0.303 0.297 1⁄
8 4 16
506 5⁄ × 3⁄ 0.740 0.313 0.308 0.303 0.297 1⁄
32 4 16
606 3⁄ × 3⁄ 0.740 0.313 0.308 0.303 0.297 1⁄
16 4 16
806 1⁄ × 3⁄ 0.740 0.313 0.308 0.303 0.297 1⁄
4 4 16
507 5⁄ × 7⁄ 0.866 0.375 0.370 0.365 0.359 1⁄
32 8 16
607 3⁄ × 7⁄ 0.866 0.375 0.370 0.365 0.359 1⁄
16 8 16
707 7⁄ × 7⁄ 0.866 0.375 0.370 0.365 0.359 1⁄
32 8 16
807 1⁄ × 7⁄ 0.866 0.375 0.370 0.365 0.359 1⁄
4 8 16
608 3⁄ × 1 0.992 0.438 0.433 0.428 0.422 1⁄
16 16
708 7⁄ × 1 0.992 0.438 0.433 0.428 0.422 1⁄
32 16
808 1⁄ × 1 0.992 0.438 0.433 0.428 0.422 1⁄
4 16
1008 5⁄ × 1 0.992 0.438 0.433 0.428 0.422 1⁄
16 16
1208 3⁄ × 1 0.992 0.438 0.433 0.428 0.422 1⁄
8 16
609 3⁄ × 11⁄ 1.114 0.484 0.479 0.475 0.469 5⁄
16 8 64
709 7⁄ × 11⁄ 1.114 0.484 0.479 0.475 0.469 5⁄
32 8 64
809 1⁄ × 11⁄ 1.114 0.484 0.479 0.475 0.469 5⁄
4 8 64
1009 5⁄ × 11⁄ 1.114 0.484 0.479 0.475 0.469 5⁄
16 8 64
610 3⁄ × 11⁄ 1.240 0.547 0.542 0.537 0.531 5⁄
16 4 64
710 7⁄ × 11⁄ 1.240 0.547 0.542 0.537 0.531 5⁄
32 4 64
810 1⁄ × 11⁄ 1.240 0.547 0.542 0.537 0.531 5⁄
4 4 64
1010 5⁄ × 11⁄ 1.240 0.547 0.542 0.537 0.531 5⁄
16 4 64
1210 3⁄ × 11⁄ 1.240 0.547 0.542 0.537 0.531 5⁄
8 4 64
811 1⁄ × 13⁄ 1.362 0.594 0.589 0.584 0.578 3⁄
4 8 32
1011 5⁄ × 13⁄ 1.362 0.594 0.589 0.584 0.578 3⁄
16 8 32
1211 3⁄ × 13⁄ 1.362 0.594 0.589 0.584 0.578 3⁄
8 8 32
812 1⁄ × 11⁄ 1.484 0.641 0.636 0.631 0.625 7⁄
4 2 64
1012 5⁄ × 11⁄ 1.484 0.641 0.636 0.631 0.625 7⁄
16 2 64
1212 3⁄ × 11⁄ 1.484 0.641 0.636 0.631 0.625 7⁄
8 2 64

All dimensions are given in inches.

The Key numbers indicate normal key dimensions. The last two digits give the nominal diameter B
in eighths of an inch and the digits preceding the last two give the nominal width W in thirty-seconds
of an inch.
 KEYS AND KEYSEATS 2349

Table 9. ANSI Standard Woodruff Keys ANSI B17.2-1967 (R1998)

Actual Height of Key

Nominal Length F C D Distance
Key Key Size +0.000 Below
No. W×B −0.010 Max. Min. Max. Min. Center E
617-1 3⁄ × 21⁄8 1.380 0.406 0.401 0.396 0.390 21⁄
16 32
817-1 1⁄ × 21⁄8 1.380 0.406 0.401 0.396 0.390 21⁄
4 32
1017-1 5⁄ × 21⁄8 1.380 0.406 0.401 0.396 0.390 21⁄
16 32
1217-1 3⁄ × 21⁄8 1.380 0.406 0.401 0.396 0.390 21⁄
8 32
617 3⁄ × 21⁄8 1.723 0.531 0.526 0.521 0.515 17⁄
16 32
817 1⁄ × 21⁄8 1.723 0.531 0.526 0.521 0.515 17⁄
4 32
1017 5⁄ × 21⁄8 1.723 0.531 0.526 0.521 0.515 17⁄
16 32
1217 3⁄ × 21⁄8 1.723 0.531 0.526 0.521 0.515 17⁄
8 32
822-1 1⁄ × 23⁄4 2.000 0.594 0.589 0.584 0.578 25⁄
4 32
1022-1 5⁄ × 23⁄4 2.000 0.594 0.589 0.584 0.578 25⁄
16 32
1222-1 3⁄ × 23⁄4 2.000 0.594 0.589 0.584 0.578 25⁄
8 32
1422-1 7⁄ × 23⁄4 2.000 0.594 0.589 0.584 0.578 25⁄
16 32
1622-1 1⁄ × 23⁄4 2.000 0.594 0.589 0.584 0.578 25⁄
2 32
822 1⁄ × 23⁄4 2.317 0.750 0.745 0.740 0.734 5⁄
4 8
1022 5⁄ × 23⁄4 2.317 0.750 0.745 0.740 0.734 5⁄
16 8
1222 3⁄ × 23⁄4 2.317 0.750 0.745 0.740 0.734 5⁄
8 8
1422 7⁄ × 23⁄4 2.317 0.750 0.745 0.740 0.734 5⁄
16 8
1622 1⁄ × 23⁄4 2.317 0.750 0.745 0.740 0.734 5⁄
2 8
1228 3⁄ × 31⁄2 2.880 0.938 0.933 0.928 0.922 13⁄
8 16
1428 7⁄ × 31⁄2 2.880 0.938 0.933 0.928 0.922 13⁄
16 16
1628 1⁄ × 31⁄2 2.880 0.938 0.933 0.928 0.922 13⁄
2 16
1828 9⁄ × 31⁄2 2.880 0.938 0.933 0.928 0.922 13⁄
16 16
2028 5⁄ × 31⁄2 2.880 0.938 0.933 0.928 0.922 13⁄
8 16
2228 11⁄ × 31⁄2 2.880 0.938 0.933 0.928 0.922 13⁄
16 16
2428 3⁄ × 31⁄2 2.880 0.938 0.933 0.928 0.922 13⁄
4 16

All dimensions are given in inches.

The key numbers indicate nominal key dimensions. The last two digits give the nominal diameter
B in eighths of an inch and the digits preceding the last two give the nominal width W in thirty-sec-
onds of an inch.
The key numbers with the −1 designation, while representing the nominal key size have a shorter
length F and due to a greater distance below center E are less in height than the keys of the same num-
ber without the −1 designation.
2350 KEYS AND KEYSEATS

Table 10. ANSI Keyseat Dimensions for Woodruff Keys

ANSI B17.2-1967 (R1998)
KeyAbove
Keyseat—Shaft Keyseat—Hub
Shaft
Nominal
Key
Size Width Aa Depth B Diameter F Height C Width D Depth E
No.
Key
+0.005 +0.005 +0.002 +0.005
Min. Max. Min. Max.
−0.000 −0.005 −0.000 −0.000
202 1⁄ × 1⁄ 0.0615 0.0630 0.0728 0.250 0.268 0.0312 0.0635 0.0372
16 4
202.5 1⁄ × 5⁄ 0.0615 0.0630 0.1038 0.312 0.330 0.0312 0.0635 0.0372
16 16
302.5 3⁄ × 5⁄ 0.0928 0.0943 0.0882 0.312 0.330 0.0469 0.0948 0.0529
32 16
203 1⁄ × 3⁄ 0.0615 0.0630 0.1358 0.375 0.393 0.0312 0.0635 0.0372
16 8
303 3⁄ × 3⁄ 0.0928 0.0943 0.1202 0.375 0.393 0.0469 0.0948 0.0529
32 8
403 1⁄ × 3⁄ 0.1240 0.1255 0.1045 0.375 0.393 0.0625 0.1260 0.0685
8 8
204 1⁄ × 1⁄ 0.0615 0.0630 0.1668 0.500 0.518 0.0312 0.0635 0.0372
16 2
304 3⁄ × 1⁄ 0.0928 0.0943 0.1511 0.500 0.518 0.0469 0.0948 0.0529
32 2
404 1⁄ × 1⁄ 0.1240 0.1255 0.1355 0.500 0.518 0.0625 0.1260 0.0685
8 2
305 3⁄ × 5⁄ 0.0928 0.0943 0.1981 0.625 0.643 0.0469 0.0948 0.0529
32 8
405 1⁄ × 5⁄ 0.1240 0.1255 0.1825 0.625 0.643 0.0625 0.1260 0.0685
8 8
505 5⁄ × 5⁄ 0.1553 0.1568 0.1669 0.625 0.643 0.0781 0.1573 0.0841
32 8
605 3⁄ × 5⁄ 0.1863 0.1880 0.1513 0.625 0.643 0.0937 0.1885 0.0997
16 8
406 1⁄ × 3⁄ 0.1240 0.1255 0.2455 0.750 0.768 0.0625 0.1260 0.0685
8 4
506 5⁄ × 3⁄ 0.1553 0.1568 0.2299 0.750 0.768 0.0781 0.1573 0.0841
32 4
606 3⁄ × 3⁄ 0.1863 0.1880 0.2143 0.750 0.768 0.0937 0.1885 0.0997
16 4
806 1⁄ × 3⁄ 0.2487 0.2505 0.1830 0.750 0.768 0.1250 0.2510 0.1310
4 4
507 5⁄ × 7⁄ 0.1553 0.1568 0.2919 0.875 0.895 0.0781 0.1573 0.0841
32 8
607 3⁄ × 7⁄ 0.1863 0.1880 0.2763 0.875 0.895 0.0937 0.1885 0.0997
16 8
707 7⁄ × 7⁄ 0.2175 0.2193 0.2607 0.875 0.895 0.1093 0.2198 0.1153
32 8
807 1⁄ × 7⁄ 0.2487 0.2505 0.2450 0.875 0.895 0.1250 0.2510 0.1310
4 8
608 3⁄ × 1 0.1863 0.1880 0.3393 1.000 1.020 0.0937 0.1885 0.0997
16
708 7⁄ × 1 0.2175 0.2193 0.3237 1.000 1.020 0.1093 0.2198 0.1153
32
808 1⁄ × 1 0.2487 0.2505 0.3080 1.000 1.020 0.1250 0.2510 0.1310
4
1008 5⁄ × 1 0.3111 0.3130 0.2768 1.000 1.020 0.1562 0.3135 0.1622
16
1208 3⁄ × 1 0.3735 0.3755 0.2455 1.000 1.020 0.1875 0.3760 0.1935
8
609 3⁄ × 11⁄8 0.1863 0.1880 0.3853 1.125 1.145 0.0937 0.1885 0.0997
16
709 7⁄ × 11⁄8 0.2175 0.2193 0.3697 1.125 1.145 0.1093 0.2198 0.1153
32
809 1⁄ × 11⁄8 0.2487 0.2505 0.3540 1.125 1.145 0.1250 0.2510 0.1310
4
1009 5⁄ × 11⁄8 0.3111 0.3130 0.3228 1.125 1.145 0.1562 0.3135 0.1622
16
610 3⁄ × 11⁄4 0.1863 0.1880 0.4483 1.250 1.273 0.0937 0.1885 0.0997
16
710 7⁄ × 11⁄4 0.2175 0.2193 0.4327 1.250 1.273 0.1093 0.2198 0.1153
32
810 1⁄ × 11⁄4 0.2487 0.2505 0.4170 1.250 1.273 0.1250 0.2510 0.1310
4
1010 5⁄ × 11⁄4 0.3111 0.3130 0.3858 1.250 1.273 0.1562 0.3135 0.1622
16
1210 3⁄ × 11⁄4 0.3735 0.3755 0.3545 1.250 1.273 0.1875 0.3760 0.1935
8
811 1⁄ × 13⁄8 0.2487 0.2505 0.4640 1.375 1.398 0.1250 0.2510 0.1310
4
1011 5⁄ × 13⁄8 0.3111 0.3130 0.4328 1.375 1.398 0.1562 0.3135 0.1622
16
 KEYS AND KEYSEATS 2351

Table 10. (Continued) ANSI Keyseat Dimensions for Woodruff Keys

ANSI B17.2-1967 (R1998)
KeyAbove
Keyseat—Shaft Keyseat—Hub
Shaft
Nominal
Key
No.
Size Width Aa Depth B Diameter F Height C Width D Depth E
Key
+0.005 +0.005 +0.002 +0.005
Min. Max. Min. Max.
−0.000 −0.005 −0.000 −0.000
1211 3⁄ × 13⁄8 0.3735 0.3755 0.4015 1.375 1.398 0.1875 0.3760 0.1935
8
812 1⁄ × 11⁄2 0.2487 0.2505 0.5110 1.500 1.523 0.1250 0.2510 0.1310
4
1012 5⁄ × 11⁄2 0.3111 0.3130 0.4798 1.500 1.523 0.1562 0.3135 0.1622
16
1212 3⁄ × 11⁄2 0.3735 0.3755 0.4485 1.500 1.523 0.1875 0.3760 0.1935
8
617-1 3⁄ × 21⁄8 0.1863 0.1880 0.3073 2.125 2.160 0.0937 0.1885 0.0997
16
817-1 1⁄ × 21⁄8 0.2487 0.2505 0.2760 2.125 2.160 0.1250 0.2510 0.1310
4
1017-1 5⁄ × 21⁄8 0.3111 0.3130 0.2448 2.125 2.160 0.1562 0.3135 0.1622
16
1217-1 3⁄ × 21⁄8 0.3735 0.3755 0.2135 2.125 2.160 0.1875 0.3760 0.1935
8
617 3⁄ × 21⁄8 0.1863 0.1880 0.4323 2.125 2.160 0.0937 0.1885 0.0997
16
817 1⁄ × 21⁄8 0.2487 0.2505 0.4010 2.125 2.160 0.1250 0.2510 0.1310
4
1017 5⁄ × 21⁄8 0.3111 0.3130 0.3698 2.125 2.160 0.1562 0.3135 0.1622
16
1217 3⁄ × 21⁄8 0.3735 0.3755 0.3385 2.125 2.160 0.1875 0.3760 0.1935
8
822-1 1⁄ × 23⁄4 0.2487 0.2505 0.4640 2.750 2.785 0.1250 0.2510 0.1310
4
1022-1 5⁄ × 23⁄4 0.3111 0.3130 0.4328 2.750 2.785 0.1562 0.3135 0.1622
16
1222-1 3⁄ × 23⁄4 0.3735 0.3755 0.4015 2.750 2.785 0.1875 0.3760 0.1935
8
1422-1 7⁄ × 23⁄4 0.4360 0.4380 0.3703 2.750 2.785 0.2187 0.4385 0.2247
16
1622-1 1⁄ × 23⁄4 0.4985 0.5005 0.3390 2.750 2.785 0.2500 0.5010 0.2560
2
822 1⁄ × 23⁄4 0.2487 0.2505 0.6200 2.750 2.785 0.1250 0.2510 0.1310
4
1022 5⁄ × 23⁄4 0.3111 0.3130 0.5888 2.750 2.785 0.1562 0.3135 0.1622
16
1222 3⁄ × 23⁄4 0.3735 0.3755 0.5575 2.750 2.785 0.1875 0.3760 0.1935
8
1422 7⁄ × 23⁄4 0.4360 0.4380 0.5263 2.750 2.785 0.2187 0.4385 0.2247
16
1622 1⁄ × 23⁄4 0.4985 0.5005 0.4950 2.750 2.785 0.2500 0.5010 0.2560
2
1228 3⁄ × 31⁄2 0.3735 0.3755 0.7455 3.500 3.535 0.1875 0.3760 0.1935
8
1428 7⁄ × 31⁄2 0.4360 0.4380 0.7143 3.500 3.535 0.2187 0.4385 0.2247
16
1628 1⁄ × 31⁄2 0.4985 0.5005 0.6830 3.500 3.535 0.2500 0.5010 0.2560
2
1828 9⁄ × 31⁄2 0.5610 0.5630 0.6518 3.500 3.535 0.2812 0.5635 0.2872
16
2028 5⁄ × 31⁄2 0.6235 0.6255 0.6205 3.500 3.535 0.3125 0.6260 0.3185
8
2228 11⁄ × 31⁄2 0.6860 0.6880 0.5893 3.500 3.535 0.3437 0.6885 0.3497
16
2428 3⁄ × 31⁄2 0.7485 0.7505 0.5580 3.500 3.535 0.3750 0.7510 0.3810
4

a These Width A values were set with the maximum keyseat (shaft) width as that figure which will
receive a key with the greatest amount of looseness consistent with assuring the key's sticking in the
keyseat (shaft). Minimum keyseat width is that figure permitting the largest shaft distortion acceptable
when assembling maximum key in minimum keyseat.Dimensions A, B, C, D are taken at side intersec-
tion.
All dimensions are given in inches.
The following definitions are given in this standard:
Woodruff Key: A Remountable machinery part which, when assembled into key-seats,
provides a positive means for transmitting torque between the shaft and hub.
Woodruff Key Number: An identification number by which the size of key may be
readily determined.
Woodruff Keyseat—Shaft: The circular pocket in which the key is retained.
Woodruff Keyseat—Hub: An axially located rectangular groove in a hub. (This has been
referred to as a keyway.)
Woodruff Keyseat Milling Cutter: An arbor type or shank type milling cutter normally
used for milling Woodruff keyseats in shafts.
2352 TAPER SHAFT ENDS

Taper Shaft Ends with Slotted Nuts SAE Standard

Nom. Diam. of Shaft, Ds Diam. of Hole, Dh Nut Width,

Lc Ls Lh Lt Ts Tp
Diam. Max. Min. Max. Min. Flats
1⁄ 0.250 0.249 0.248 0.247 9⁄ 5⁄ 3⁄ 5⁄ 7⁄ 9⁄ 5⁄
4 16 16 8 16 32 64 16
3⁄ 0.375 0.374 0.373 0.372 47⁄ 7⁄ 1⁄ 23⁄ 17⁄ 3⁄ 1⁄
8 64 16 2 64 64 16 2
1⁄ 0.500 0.499 0.498 0.497 63⁄ 11⁄ 3⁄ 23⁄ 17⁄ 3⁄ 1⁄
2 64 16 4 64 64 16 2
5⁄ 0.625 0.624 0.623 0.622 13⁄32 11⁄ 3⁄ 17⁄ 7⁄ 1⁄ 3⁄
8 16 4 32 16 4 4
3⁄ 0.750 0.749 0.748 0.747 111⁄32 15⁄ 1 17⁄ 7⁄ 1⁄ 3⁄
4 16 32 16 4 4
7⁄ 0.875 0.874 0.873 0.872 111⁄16 11⁄8 11⁄4 11⁄ 1⁄ 5⁄ 15⁄
8 16 2 16 16
1 1.001 0.999 0.997 0.995 115⁄16 13⁄8 11⁄2 11⁄
16
1⁄
2
5⁄
16 11⁄16
11⁄8 1.126 1.124 1.122 1.120 115⁄16 13⁄8 11⁄2 11⁄
16
1⁄
2
5⁄
16 11⁄4
11⁄4 1.251 1.249 1.247 1.245 115⁄16 13⁄8 11⁄2 11⁄
16
1⁄
2
5⁄
16 17⁄16
13⁄8 1.376 1.374 1.372 1.370 27⁄16 17⁄8 2 11⁄
16
1⁄
2
5⁄
16 17⁄16
11⁄2 1.501 1.499 1.497 1.495 27⁄16 17⁄8 2 11⁄
16
1⁄
2
5⁄
16 17⁄16
15⁄8 1.626 1.624 1.622 1.620 213⁄16 21⁄8 21⁄4 13⁄
16
5⁄
8
7⁄
16 23⁄16
13⁄4 1.751 1.749 1.747 1.745 213⁄16 21⁄8 21⁄4 13⁄
16
5⁄
8
7⁄
16 23⁄16
17⁄8 1.876 1.874 1.872 1.870 31⁄16 23⁄8 21⁄2 13⁄
16
5⁄
8
7⁄
16 23⁄16
2 2.001 1.999 1.997 1.995 39⁄16 27⁄8 3 13⁄
16
5⁄
8
7⁄
16 23⁄16
21⁄4 2.252 2.248 2.245 2.242 39⁄16 27⁄8 3 13⁄
16
5⁄
8
7⁄
16 23⁄8
21⁄2 2.502 2.498 2.495 2.492 49⁄32 33⁄8 31⁄2 11⁄4 1 5⁄
8 31⁄8
23⁄4 2.752 2.748 2.745 2.742 49⁄32 33⁄8 31⁄2 11⁄4 1 5⁄
8 31⁄8
3 3.002 2.998 2.995 2.992 225⁄32 37⁄8 4 11⁄4 1 5⁄
8 31⁄8
31⁄4 3.252 3.248 3.245 3.242 51⁄32 41⁄8 41⁄4 11⁄4 1 5⁄
8 31⁄8
31⁄2 3.502 3.498 3.495 3.492 57⁄16 43⁄8 41⁄2 13⁄8 11⁄8 3⁄
4 37⁄8
4 4.002 3.998 3.995 3.992 67⁄16 53⁄8 51⁄2 13⁄8 11⁄8 3⁄
4 37⁄8
Thds. Keyway
Nom. Dt per W H Square Key A B C
Diam.
Inch Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min.
1⁄ #10 40 0.0625 .0615 .037 .033 0.0635 0.0625 1⁄ 3⁄ 5⁄
4 2 16 64
3⁄ 5⁄ 32 0.0937 .0927 .053 .049 0.0947 0.0937 11⁄ 1⁄ 5⁄
8 16 16 4 64
1⁄ 5⁄ 32 0.1250 .1240 .069 .065 0.1260 0.1250 7⁄ 3⁄ 5⁄
2 16 8 8 64
5⁄ 1⁄ 28 0.1562 .1552 .084 .080 0.1572 0.1562 11⁄16 3⁄ 1⁄
8 2 8 8
3⁄ 1⁄ 28 0.1875 .1865 .100 .096 0.1885 0.1875 11⁄4 5⁄ 1⁄
4 2 8 8
7⁄ 5⁄ 24 0.2500 .2490 .131 .127 0.2510 0.2500 11⁄2 3⁄ 5⁄
8 8 4 32
1 3⁄ 20 0.2500 .2490 .131 .127 0.2510 0.2500 13⁄4 7⁄ 5⁄
4 8 32
11⁄8 7⁄
8 20 0.3125 .3115 .162 .158 0.3135 0.3125 2 7⁄
8
5⁄
32
11⁄4 1 20 0.3125 .3115 .162 .158 0.3135 0.3125 21⁄8 7⁄
8
5⁄
32
13⁄8 1 20 0.3750 .3740 .194 .190 0.3760 0.3750 21⁄4 1 5⁄
32
11⁄2 1 20 0.3750 .3740 .194 .190 0.3760 0.3750 21⁄2 1 5⁄
32
15⁄8 11⁄4 18 0.4375 .4365 .225 .221 0.4385 0.4375 23⁄4 11⁄4 5⁄
32
13⁄4 11⁄4 18 0.4375 .4365 .225 .221 0.4385 0.4375 3 11⁄4 5⁄
32
17⁄8 11⁄4 18 0.4375 .4365 .225 .221 0.4385 0.4375 31⁄8 11⁄4 5⁄
32
2 11⁄4 18 0.5000 .4990 .256 .252 0.5010 0.5000 31⁄4 11⁄2 5⁄
32
21⁄4 11⁄2 18 0.5625 .5610 .287 .283 0.5640 0.5625 31⁄2 11⁄2 5⁄
32
21⁄2 2 16 0.6250 .6235 .319 .315 0.6265 0.6250 4 13⁄4 7⁄
32
23⁄4 2 16 0.6875 .6860 .350 .346 0.6890 0.6875 43⁄8 13⁄4 7⁄
32
3 2 16 0.7500 .7485 .381 .377 0.7515 0.7500 43⁄4 2 7⁄
32
31⁄4 2 16 0.7500 .7485 .381 .377 0.7515 0.7500 5 21⁄8 7⁄
32
31⁄2 21⁄2 16 0.8750 .8735 .444 .440 0.8765 0.8750 51⁄2 21⁄4 9⁄
32
4 21⁄2 16 1.0000 .9985 .506 .502 1.0015 1.0000 61⁄4 23⁄4 9⁄
32

All dimensions in inches except where otherwise noted. © 1990, SAE.

 KEYS AND KEYSEATS 2353

Chamfered Keys and Filleted Keyseats.—In general practice, chamfered keys and fil-
leted keyseats are not used. However, it is recognized that fillets in keyseats decrease stress
concentration at corners. When used, fillet radii should be as large as possible without
causing excessive bearing stresses due to reduced contact area between the key and its mat-
ing parts. Keys must be chamfered or rounded to clear fillet radii. Values in Table 5 assume
general conditions and should be used only as a guide when critical stresses are encoun-
tered.
Table 11. Finding Depth of Keyseat and Distance from Top of Key to Bottom of Shaft

M
C For milling keyseats, the total depth to feed cutter in from outside of shaft to bottom
D of keyseat is M + D, where D is depth of keyseat.
For checking an assembled key and shaft, caliper measurement J between top of key
E and bottom of shaft is used.
J J = S – (M + D) + C
S
where C is depth of key. For Woodruff keys, dimensions C and D can be found in Tables
8 through 10. Assuming shaft diameter S is normal size, the tolerance on dimension J
for Woodruff keys in keyslots are + 0.000, −0.010 inch.

Dia. Width of Keyseat, E

of 1⁄ 3⁄ 1⁄ 5⁄ 3⁄ 7⁄ 1⁄ 5⁄ 3⁄ 7⁄ 1⁄ 9⁄ 5⁄ 11⁄ 3⁄
ShaftS. 16 32 8 32 16 32 4 16 8 16 2 16 8 16 4

Inches Dimension M, Inch

0.3125 .0032 … … … … … … … … … … … … … …
0.3437 .0029 .0065 … … … … … … … … … … … … …
0.3750 .0026 .0060 .0107 … … … … … … … … … … … …
0.4060 .0024 .0055 .0099 … … … … … … … … … … … …
0.4375 .0022 .0051 .0091 … … … … … … … … … … … …
0.4687 .0021 .0047 .0085 .0134 … … … … … … … … … … …
0.5000 .0020 .0044 .0079 .0125 … … … … … … … … … … …
0.5625 … .0039 .0070 .0111 .0161 … … … … … … … … … …
0.6250 … .0035 .0063 .0099 .0144 .0198 … … … … … … … … …
0.6875 … .0032 .0057 .0090 .0130 .0179 .0235 … … … … … … … …
0.7500 … .0029 .0052 .0082 .0119 .0163 .0214 .0341 … … … … … … …
0.8125 … .0027 .0048 .0076 .0110 .0150 .0197 .0312 … … … … … … …
0.8750 … .0025 .0045 .0070 .0102 .0139 .0182 .0288 … … … … … … …
0.9375 … … .0042 .0066 .0095 .0129 .0170 .0263 .0391 … … … … … …
1.0000 … … .0039 .0061 .0089 .0121 .0159 .0250 .0365 … … … … … …
1.0625 … … .0037 .0058 .0083 .0114 .0149 .0235 .0342 … … … … … …
1.1250 … … .0035 .0055 .0079 .0107 .0141 .0221 .0322 .0443 … … … … …
1.1875 … … .0033 .0052 .0074 .0102 .0133 .0209 .0304 .0418 … … … … …
1.2500 … … .0031 .0049 .0071 .0097 .0126 .0198 .0288 .0395 … … … … …
1.3750 … … … .0045 .0064 .0088 .0115 .0180 .0261 .0357 .0471 … … … …
1.5000 … … … .0041 .0059 .0080 .0105 .0165 .0238 .0326 .0429 … … … …
1.6250 … … … .0038 .0054 .0074 .0097 .0152 .0219 .0300 .0394 .0502 … … …
1.7500 … … … … .0050 .0069 .0090 .0141 .0203 .0278 .0365 .0464 … … …
1.8750 … … … … .0047 .0064 .0084 .0131 .0189 .0259 .0340 .0432 .0536 … …
2.0000 … … … … .0044 .0060 .0078 .0123 .0177 .0242 .0318 .0404 .0501 … …
2.1250 … … … … … .0056 .0074 .0116 .0167 .0228 .0298 .0379 .0470 .0572 .0684
2.2500 … … … … … … .0070 .0109 .0157 .0215 .0281 .0357 .0443 .0538 .0643
2.3750 … … … … … … … .0103 .0149 .0203 .0266 .0338 .0419 .0509 .0608
2.5000 … … … … … … … … .0141 .0193 .0253 .0321 .0397 .0482 .0576
2.6250 … … … … … … … … .0135 .0184 .0240 .0305 .0377 .0457 .0547
2.7500 … … … … … … … … … .0175 .0229 .0291 .0360 .0437 .0521
2.8750 … … … … … … … … … .0168 .0219 .0278 .0344 .0417 .0498
3.0000 … … … … … … … … … … .0210 .0266 .0329 .0399 .0476
2354 KEYS AND KEYSEATS

Depths for Milling Keyseats.—The above table has been compiled to facilitate the accu-
rate milling of keyseats. This table gives the distance M (see illustration accompanying
table) between the top of the shaft and a line passing through the upper corners or edges of
the keyseat. Dimension M is calculated by the formula: M = 1⁄2 ( S – S 2 – E 2 ) where S
is diameter of shaft, and E is width of keyseat. A simple approximate formula that gives M
to within 0.001 inch is M = E2 ÷ 4S.

Cotters.—A cotter is a form of key that is used to connect rods, etc., that are subjected
either to tension or compression or both, the cotter being subjected to shearing stresses at
two transverse cross-sections. When taper cotters are used for drawing and holding parts
together, if the cotter is held in place by the friction between the bearing surfaces, the taper
should not be too great. Ordinarily a taper varying from 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 inch per foot is used for plain
cotters. When a set-screw or other device is used to prevent the cotter from backing out of
its slot, the taper may vary from 1 1⁄2 to 2 inches per foot.

British Keys and Keyways

British Standard Metric Keys and Keyways.—This British Standard, BS 4235:Part

1:1972 (1986), covers square and rectangular parallel keys and keyways, and square and
rectangular taper keys and keyways. Plain and gib-head taper keys are specified. There are
three classes of fit for the square and rectangular parallel keys and keyways, designated
free, normal, and close. A free fit is applied when the application requires the hub of an
assembly to slide over the key; a normal fit is employed when the key is to be inserted in the
keyway with the minimum amount of fitting, as may be required in mass-production
assembly work; and a close fit is applied when accurate fitting of the key is required under
maximum material conditions, which may involve selection of components.

The Standard does not provide for misalignment or offset greater than can be accommo-
dated within the dimensional tolerances. If an assembly is to be heavily stressed, a check
should be made to ensure that the cumulative effect of misalignment or offset, or both, does
not prevent satisfactory bearing on the key. Radii and chamfers are not normally provided
on keybar and keys as supplied, but they can be produced during manufacture by agree-
ment between the user and supplier.

Unless otherwise specified, keys in compliance with this Standard are manufactured
from steel made to BS 970 having a tensile strength of not less than 550 MN/m2 in the fin-
ished condition. BS 970, Part 1, lists the following steels and maximum section sizes,
respectively, that meet this tensile strength requirement: 070M20, 25 × 14 mm; 070M26,
36 × 20 mm; 080M30, 90 × 45 mm; and 080M40, 100 × 50 mm.

At the time of publication of this Standard, the demand for metric keys was not sufficient
to enable standard ranges of lengths to be established. The lengths given in the accompany-
ing table are those shown as standard in ISO Recommendations R773: 1969, “Rectangular
or Square Parallel Keys and their Corresponding Keyways (Dimensions in Millimeters),”
and R 774: 1969, “Taper Keys and their Corresponding Keyways—with or without Gib
Head (Dimensions in Millimeters).”

Tables 1 through 4 on the following pages cover the dimensions and tolerances of square
and rectangular keys and keyways, and square and rectangular taper keys and keyways.
 Table 1. British Standard Metric Keyways for Square and Rectangular Parallel Keys BS 4235:Part 1:1972 (1986)
Shaft Key Keyway
Nonimal
Width,b Depth Radius r
Diameter d
Size, Free Fit Normal Fit Close Fit Shaft t1 Hub t2
Up to b×h Hub
Over and Nom. Shaft Hub Shaft Shaft and Hub
Incl. (H9) (D10) (N9) (JS9)a (P9) Nom. Tol. Nom. Tol.
Tolerances Max. Min.
Keyways for Square Parallel Keys
6 8 2×2 2 +0.025 +0.060 −0.004 +0.012 −0.006 1.2 1 0.16 0.08
}

KEYS AND KEYSEATS

8 10 3×3 3 0 +0.020 −0.029 −0.012 −0.031 1.8 1.4 0.16 0.08
+0.1 +0.1
10 12 4×4 4 2.5 } 1.8 } 0.16 0.08
+0.030 +0.078 0 +0.015 −0.012 0 0
12 17 5×5 5 } 3 2.3 0.25 0.16
0 +0.030 −0.030 −0.015 −0.042
17 22 6×6 6 3.5 2.8 0.25 0.16
x
b t2
Hub t1 t2 h 2
h
Key d+t2 t1 h 2
d d–t1
Shaft
r
Section x-x
x Enlarged Detail of Key and Keyways

2355
 Table 1. (Continued) British Standard Metric Keyways for Square and Rectangular Parallel Keys BS 4235:Part 1:1972 (1986)

2356
Shaft Key Keyway
Nonimal
Width,b Depth Radius r
Diameter d
Size, Free Fit Normal Fit Close Fit Shaft t1 Hub t2
Up to b×h Hub
Over and Nom. Shaft Hub Shaft Shaft and Hub
Incl. (H9) (D10) (N9) (JS9)a (P9) Nom. Tol. Nom. Tol.
Tolerances Max. Min.
Keyways for Rectangular Parallel Keys
22 30 8×7 8 +0.036 +0.098 0 +0.018 −0.015 4 3.3 0.25 0.16
}
30 38 10 × 8 10 0 +0.040 −0.036 −0.018 −0.051 5 3.3 0.40 0.25

KEYS AND KEYSEATS

38 44 12 × 8 12 5 3.3 0.40 0.25
44 50 14 × 9 14 +0.043 +0.120 0 +0.021 −0.018 5.5 3.8 0.40 0.25
}
50 58 16 × 10 16 +0.050 −0.043 −0.021 −0.061 6 4.3 0.40 0.25
+0.2 +0.2
58 65 18 × 11 18 7 } 4.4 } 0.40 0.25
0 0
65 75 20 × 12 20 7.5 4.9 0.60 0.40
75 85 22 × 14 22 +0.052 +0.149 0 +0.026 −0.022 9 5.4 0.60 0.40
}
85 95 25 × 14 25 +0.065 −0.052 −0.026 −0.074 9 5.4 0.60 0.40
95 110 28 × 16 28 10 6.4 0.60 0.40
110 130 32 × 18 32 11 7.4 0.60 0.40
130 150 36 × 20 36 12 8.4 1.00 0.70
+0.062 +0.180 0 +0.031 −0.026
150 170 40 × 22 40 } 13 9.4 1.00 0.70
−0.080 −0.062 −0.031 −0.088
170 200 45 × 25 45 15 10.4 1.00 0.70
200 230 50 × 28 50 17 11.4 1.00 0.70
230 260 56 × 32 56 20 +0.3 12.4 +0.3 1.60 1.20
} }
260 290 63 × 32 63 +0.074 +0.220 0 +0.037 −0.032 20 0 12.4 0 1.60 1.20
}
290 330 70 × 36 70 +0.100 −0.074 −0.037 −0.106 22 14.4 1.60 1.20
330 380 80 × 40 80 25 15.4 2.50 2.00
380 440 90 × 45 90 +0.087 +0.260 0 +0.043 −0.037 28 17.4 2.50 2.00
}
440 500 100 × 50 100 0 +0.120 −0.087 −0.043 −0.124 31 19.5 2.50 2.00
a Tolerance limits J 9 are quoted from BS 4500, “ISO Limits and Fits,” to three significant figures.
S
All dimensions in millimeters.
 KEYS AND KEYSEATS 2357

Table 2. British Standard Metric Keyways for Square and Rectangular Taper Keys,
BS 4235:Part 1:1972 (1986)

Shaft Key Keyway

Nominal Depth
Width b, Corner Radius
Diameter
Shaft and Hub Shaft t1 Hub t2 of Keyway
d Size, b
Up to ×h
Over and Nom. Tol. Nom. Tol. Nom. Tol. Max. Min.
Incl. (D10)
Keyways for Square Taper Keys
6 8 2×2 2 + 0.060 1.2 0.5 0.16 0.08
}
8 10 3×3 3 +0.020 1.8 +0.1 0.9 +0.1 0.16 0.08
} }
10 12 4×4 4 2.5 0 1.2 0 0.16 0.08
+0.078
12 17 5×5 5 } 3 1.7 0.25 0.16
+0.030
17 22 6×6 6 3.5 + 0.2 2.2 + 0.2 0.25 0.16
0 0

Keyways for Rectangular Taper Keys

22 30 8×7 8 + 0.098 4 2.4 0.25 0.16
}
30 38 10 × 8 10 +0.040 5 2.4 0.40 0.25
38 44 12 × 8 12 5 2.4 0.40 0.25
44 50 14 × 9 14 +0.120 5.5 2.9 0.40 0.25
}
50 58 16 × 10 16 +0.050 6 3.4 0.40 0.25
+0.2 +0.2
58 65 18 × 11 18 7 } 3.4 } 0.40 0.25
0 0
65 75 20 × 12 20 7.5 3.9 0.60 0.40
75 85 22 × 14 22 +0.149 9 4.4 0.60 0.40
}
85 95 25 × 14 25 +0.065 9 4.4 0.60 0.40
95 110 28 × 16 28 10 5.4 0.60 0.40
110 130 32 × 18 32 11 6.4 0.60 0.40
130 150 36 × 20 36 12 7.1 1.00 0.70
+0.180
150 170 40 × 22 40 } 13 8.1 1.00 0.70
+0.080
170 200 45 × 25 45 15 9.1 1.00 0.70
200 230 50 × 28 50 17 10.1 1.00 0.70
230 260 56 × 32 56 20 +0.3 11.1 +0.3 1.60 1.20
} }
260 290 63 × 32 63 0 0
+0.220 20 11.1 1.60 1.20
}
290 330 70 × 36 70 +0.120 22 13.1 1.60 1.20
330 380 80 × 40 80 25 14.1 2.50 2.00
380 440 90 × 45 90 + 0.260 28 16.1 2.50 2.00
}
440 500 100 × 50 100 +0.120 31 18.1 2.50 2.00
2358 KEYS AND KEYSEATS

Table 3. British Standard Metric Square and Rectangular Parallel Keys.

BS 4235:Part 1:1972 (1986)
X X
s
45 X
h h

X X
Section
l X—X l X

l
b/2
b

b/2 b
Form A Form B Form C
Width Thickness, Chamfer, Length Range,
b h s l
Nom. Tol.a Nom. Tol.a Min. Max. From To
Square Parallel Keys
2 0 2 0 0.16 0.25 6 20
} }
3 −0.025 3 −0.025 0.16 0.25 6 36
4 4 0.16 0.25 8 45
0 0
5 } 5 } 0.25 0.40 10 56
−0.030 −0.030
6 6 0.25 0.40 14 70
Rectangular Parallel Keys
8 0 7 0.25 0.40 18 90
}
10 −0.036 8 0.40 0.60 22 110
0
12 8 } 0.40 0.60 28 140
−0.090
14 0 9 0.40 0.60 36 160
}
16 −0.043 10 0.40 0.60 45 180
18 11 0.40 0.60 50 200
20 12 0.60 0.80 56 220
22 0 14 0 0.60 0.80 63 250
} }
25 −0.052 14 −0.110 0.60 0.80 70 280
28 16 0.60 0.80 80 320
32 18 0.60 0.80 90 360
36 20 1.00 1.20 100 400
0
40 } 22 1.00 1.20 … …
−0.062 0
45 25 −0.130 1.00 1.20 … …
50 28 1.00 1.20 … …
56 32 1.60 2.00 … …
63 0 32 1.60 2.00 … …
}
70 −0.074 36 0 1.60 2.00 … …
}
80 40 −0.160 2.50 3.00 … …
90 0 45 2.50 3.00 … …
}
100 −0.087 50 2.50 3.00 … …
a The tolerance on the width and thickness of square taper keys is h9, and on the width and thickness
of rectangular keys, h9 and h11, respectively, in accordance with ISO metric limits and fits. All dimen-
sions in millimeters.
 KEYS AND KEYWAYS 2359

Table 4. British Standard Metric Square and Rectangular Taper Keys

BS 4235:Part 1:1972 (1986)

Width b Thickness h Chamfer s Length Range l Gib head h1 Radius r

Nom. Tol.a Nom. Tol.a Min. Max. From To Nom. Nom.
Square Taper Keys
2 0 2 0 0.16 0.25 6 20 … …
} }
3 −0.025 3 −0.025 0.16 0.25 6 36 … …
4 4 0.16 0.25 8 45 7 0.25
0 0
5 } 5 } 0.25 0.40 10 56 8 0.25
−0.030 −0.030
6 6 0.25 0.40 14 70 10 0.25
Rectangular Taper Keys
8 0 7 0.25 0.40 18 90 11 1.5
}
10 −0.036 8 0.40 0.60 22 110 12 1.5
0
12 8 } 0.40 0.60 28 140 12 1.5
−0.090
14 0 9 0.40 0.60 36 160 14 1.5
}
16 −0.043 10 0.40 0.60 45 180 16 3.2
18 11 0.40 0.60 50 200 18 3.2
20 } 12 0.60 0.80 56 220 20 3.2
22 0 14 0 0.60 0.80 63 250 22 3.2
}
25 −0.052 14 −0.110 0.60 0.80 70 280 22 3.2
28 16 0.60 0.80 80 320 25 3.2
32 18 0.60 0.80 90 360 28 6.4
36 20 1.00 1.20 100 400 32 6.4
0
40 } 22 0 1.00 1.20 … … 36 6.4
−0.062 }
45 25 −0.130 1.00 1.20 … … 40 6.4
50 28 1.00 1.20 … … 45 6.4
56 32 1.60 2.00 … … 50 9.5
63 0 32 1.60 2.00 … … 50 9.5
}
70 −0.074 36 0 1.60 2.00 … … 56 9.5
}
80 40 −0.160 2.50 3.00 … … 63 9.5
90 0 45 2.50 3.00 … … 70 9.5
}
100 −0.087 50 2.50 3.00 … … 80 9.5
a The tolerance on the width and thickness of square taper keys is h9, and on the width and thickness
of rectangular taper keys, h9 and h11 respectively, in accordance with ISO metric limits and fits. Does
not apply to gib head dimensions.
British Standard Keys and Keyways: Tables 1 through 6 from BS 46:Part 1:1958 (1985)
(obsolescent) provide data for rectangular parallel keys and keyways, square parallel keys
and keyways, plain and gib head rectangular taper keys and key-ways, plain and gib head
square taper keys and keyways, and Woodruff keys and keyways.
Parallel Keys: These keys are used for transmitting unidirectional torques in transmis-
sions not subject to heavy starting loads and where periodic withdrawal or sliding of the
hub member may be required. In many instances, particularly couplings, a gib-head cannot
be accommodated, and there is insufficient room to drift out the key from behind. It is then
necessary to withdraw the component over the key and a parallel key is essential. Parallel
square and rectangular keys are normally side fitting with top clearance and are usually
retained in the shaft rather more securely than in the hub. The rectangular key is the gen-
eral-purpose key for shafts greater than 1 inch in diameter; the square key is intended for
2360 KEYS AND KEYWAYS

use with shafts up to and including 1-inch diameter or for shafts up to 6-inch diameter
where it is desirable to have a greater key depth than is provided by rectangular keys. In
stepped shafts, the larger diameters are usually required by considerations other than
torque, e.g., resistance to bending. Where components such as fans, gears, impellers, etc.,
are attached to the larger shaft diameter, the use of a key smaller than standard for that
diameter may be permissible. As this results in unequal disposition of the key in the shaft
and its related hub, the dimensions H and h must be recalculated to maintain the T/2 rela-
tionship.

British Standard Preferred Lengths of Metric Keys BS 4235:Part 1:1972 (1986)

Type of key Type of key
Sq. Rect. Sq. Rect.
Length Sq. Rect. Taper Taper Length Sq. Rect. Taper Taper
6 x x 63 x x x x
8 x x 70 x x x x
10 x x 80 x x
12 x x 90 x x
14 x x 100 x x
16 x x 110 x x
18 x x x x 125 x x
20 x x x x 140 x x
22 x x x x 160 x x
25 x x x x 180 x x
28 x x x x 200 x x
32 x x x x 220 x x
36 x x x x 250 x x
40 x x x x 280 x x
45 x x x x 320 x x
50 x x x x 360 x x
56 x x x x 400 x x

Taper Keys: These keys are used for transmitting heavy unidirectional, reversing, or
vibrating torques and in applications where periodic withdrawal of the key may be neces-
sary. Taper keys are usually top fitting, but may be top and side fitting where required, and
the keyway in the hub should then have the same width value as the keyway in the shaft.
Taper keys of rectangular section are used for general purposes and are of less depth than
square keys; square sections are for use with shafts up to and including 1-inch diameter or
for shafts up to 6-inch diameter where it is desirable to have greater key depth.

Woodruff Keys: These keys are used for light applications or the angular location of asso-
ciated parts on tapered shaft ends. They are not recommended for other applications, but if
so used, corner radii in the shaft and hub keyways are advisable to reduce stress concentra-
tion.

Dimensions and Tolerances for British Parallel and Taper Keys and Keyways: Dimen-
sions and tolerances for key and keyway widths given in Tables 1, 2, 3, and 4 are based on
the width of key W and provide a fitting allowance. The fitting allowance is designed to
permit an interference between the key and the shaft keyway and a slightly easier condition
between the key and the hub keyway. In shrink and heavy force fits, it may be found neces-
sary to depart from the width and depth tolerances specified. Any variation in the width of
the keyway should be such that the greatest width is at the end from which the key enters
and any variation in the depth of the keyway should be such that the greatest depth is at the
end from which the key enters.
Keys and keybar normally are not chamfered or radiused as supplied, but this may be
done at the time of fitting. Radii and chamfers are given in Tables 1, 2, 3, and 4. Corner
radii are recommended for keyways to alleviate stress concentration.
 ;;;
;;;
Diameter of Shaft

Over
Up to and Size
W×T
;;;
;;
;;;
Table 1. British Standard Rectangular Parallel Keys, Keyways, and Keybars B.S. 46: Part I: 1958

Key
Width,W
H
h

Thickness,T Width Ws
W

Keyway in Shaft
Depth H
T
2
T
2
T

Keyway in Hub
Width Wh Depth h
Nominal
Keyway
Radius,ra
Width W
Keybar
Thickness T

KEYS AND KEYWAYS

Including Max. Min. Max. Min. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Max. Min. Max. Min.
1 11⁄4 5⁄ × 1⁄
16 4 0.314 0.312 0.253 0.250 0.311 0.312 0.146 0.152 0.312 0.313 0.112 0.118 0.010 0.314 0.312 0.253 0.250
11⁄4 11⁄2 3⁄ × 1⁄
8 4 0.377 0.375 0.253 0.250 0.374 0.375 0.150 0.156 0.375 0.376 0.108 0.114 0.010 0.377 0.375 0.253 0.250
11⁄2 13⁄4 7⁄ × 5⁄
16 16 0.440 0.438 0.315 0.312 0.437 0.438 0.186 0.192 0.438 0.439 0.135 0.141 0.020 0.440 0.438 0.315 0.312
13⁄4 2 1⁄ × 5⁄
2 16 0.502 0.500 0.315 0.312 0.499 0.500 0.190 0.196 0.500 0.501 0.131 0.137 0.020 0.502 0.500 0.315 0.312
2 21⁄2 5⁄ × 7⁄
8 16 0.627 0.625 0.441 0.438 0.624 0.625 0.260 0.266 0.625 0.626 0.185 0.191 0.020 0.627 0.625 0.441 0.438
21⁄2 3 3⁄ × 1⁄
4 2 0.752 0.750 0.503 0.500 0.749 0.750 0.299 0.305 0.750 0.751 0.209 0.215 0.020 0.752 0.750 0.503 0.500
3 31⁄2 7⁄ × 5⁄
8 8 0.877 0.875 0.629 0.625 0.874 0.875 0.370 0.376 0.875 0.876 0.264 0.270 0.062 0.877 0.875 0.629 0.625
31⁄2 4 1 × 3⁄4 1.003 1.000 0.754 0.750 0.999 1.000 0.441 0.447 1.000 1.001 0.318 0.324 0.062 1.003 1.000 0.754 0.750
4 5 11⁄4 × 7⁄8 1.253 1.250 0.879 0.875 1.248 1.250 0.518 0.524 1.250 1.252 0.366 0.372 0.062 1.253 1.250 0.879 0.875
5 6 11⁄2 × 1 1.504 1.500 1.006 1.000 1.498 1.500 0.599 0.605 1.500 1.502 0.412 0.418 0.062 1.504 1.500 1.006 1.000
6 7 11⁄2 × 11⁄4 1.754 1.750 1.256 1.250 1.748 1.750 1.740 0.746 1.750 1.752 0.526 0.532 0.125
7 8 2 × 13⁄8 2.005 2.000 1.381 1.375 1.998 2.000 0.818 0.824 2.000 2.002 0.573 0.579 0.125
8 9 21⁄4 × 11⁄2 2.255 2.250 1.506 1.500 2.248 2.250 0.897 0.905 2.250 2.252 0.619 0.627 0.125 Bright keybar is not normally
9 10 2 ⁄2 × 15⁄8
1 2.505 2.500 1.631 1.625 2.498 2.500 0.975 0.983 2.500 2.502 0.666 0.674 0.187 available in sections larger than the
10 11 23⁄4 × 17⁄8 2.755 2.750 1.881 1.875 2.748 2.750 1.114 1.122 2.750 2.752 0.777 0.785 0.187 above.
11 12 3×2 3.006 3.000 2.008 2.000 2.998 3.000 1.195 1.203 3.000 3.002 0.823 0.831 0.187
12 13 31⁄4 × 21⁄8 3.256 3.250 2.133 2.125 3.248 3.250 1.273 1.281 3.250 3.252 0.870 0.878 0.187
13 14 31⁄2 × 23⁄8 3.506 3.500 2.383 2.375 3.498 3.500 1.413 1.421 3.500 3.502 0.980 0.988 0.250
14 15 33⁄4 × 21⁄2 3.756 3.750 2.508 2.500 3.748 3.750 1.492 1.502 3.750 3.752 1.026 1.036 0.250 All dimensions in inches.
15 16 4 × 25⁄8 4.008 4.000 2.633 2.625 3.998 4.000 1.571 1.581 4.000 4.002 1.072 1.082 0.250
16 17 41⁄4 × 27⁄8 4.258 4.250 2.883 2.875 4.248 4.250 1.711 1.721 4.250 4.252 1.182 1.192 0.312
17 18 41⁄2 × 3 4.508 4.500 3.010 3.000 4.498 4.500 1.791 1.801 4.500 4.502 1.229 1.239 0.312
18 19 41⁄4 × 31⁄8 4.758 4.750 3.135 3.125 4.748 4.750 1.868 1.878 4.750 4.752 1.277 1.287 0.312
19 20 5 × 33⁄8 5.008 5.000 3.385 3.375 4.998 5.000 2.010 2.020 5.000 5.002 1.385 1.395 0.312

2361
a The key chamfer shall be the minimum to clear the keyway radius. Nominal values are given.
 ;;;
;;;
;;;
;;
;;
;;
Table 2. British Standard Square Parallel Keys, Keyways, and Keybars B.S. 46: Part I: 1958

2362
W

h T
2
T
H r T
2

Diameter of Shaft Key Keyway in Shaft Keyway in Hub Bright Keybar

KEYS AND KEYWAYS

Nominal
Width, W and Keyway Width, W and
Up to and Size, Width, Ws Depth, H Width, Wh Depth, h
Over Thickness, T Radius, Thickness, T
Including W×T ra
Max. Min. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Max. Min.
1⁄ 1⁄ 1⁄ × 1⁄ 0.127 0.125 0.124 0.125 0.072 0.078 0.125 0.126 0.060 0.066 0.010 0.127 0.125
4 2 8 8
1⁄ 3⁄ 3⁄ × 3⁄ 0.190 0.188 0.187 0.188 0.107 0.113 0.188 0.189 0.088 0.094 0.010 0.190 0.188
2 4 16 16
3⁄ 1 1⁄ × 1⁄ 0.252 0.250 0.249 0.250 0.142 0.148 0.250 0.251 0.115 0.121 0.010 0.252 0.250
4 4 4

1 11⁄4 5⁄ × 5⁄
16 16 0.314 0.312 0.311 0.312 0.177 0.183 0.312 0.313 0.142 0.148 0.010 0.314 0.312
11⁄4 11⁄2 3⁄ × 3⁄
8 8 0.377 0.375 0.374 0.375 0.213 0.219 0.375 0.376 0.169 0.175 0.010 0.377 0.375
11⁄2 13⁄4 7⁄ × 7⁄
16 16 0.440 0.438 0.437 0.438 0.248 0.254 0.438 0.439 0.197 0.203 0.020 0.440 0.438
13⁄4 2 1⁄ × 1⁄
2 2 0.502 0.500 0.499 0.500 0.283 0.289 0.500 0.501 0.224 0.230 0.020 0.502 0.500
2 21⁄2 5⁄ × 5⁄
8 8
0.627 0.625 0.624 0.625 0.354 0.360 0.625 0.626 0.278 0.284 0.020 0.627 0.625
21⁄2 3 3⁄ × 3⁄
4 4 0.752 0.750 0.749 0.750 0.424 0.430 0.750 0.751 0.333 0.339 0.020 0.752 0.750
3 31⁄2 7⁄ ,
8 × 7⁄8 0.877 0.875 0.874 0.875 0.495 0.501 0.875 0.876 0.387 0.393 0.062 0.877 0.875
31⁄2 4 1×1 1.003 1.000 0.999 1.000 0.566 0.572 1.000 1.001 0.442 0.448 0.062 1.003 1.000
4 5 11⁄4 × 11⁄4 1.253 1.250 1.248 1.250 0.707 0.713 1.250 1.252 0.551 0.557 0.062 1.253 1.250
5 6 11⁄2 × 11⁄2 1.504 1.500 1.498 1.500 0.848 0.854 1.500 1.502 0.661 0.667 0.062 1.504 1.500

a The key chamfer shall be the minimum to clear the keyway radius. Nominal values are given. All dimensions in inches.
;;;
;;;
;;
;; ;
;
Table 3. British Standard Rectangular Taper Keys and Keyways, Gib-head and Plain B.S. 46: Part 1: 1958
h Alternative Design Showing
a Parallel Extension with a A D
h
Drilled Hole To Facilitate All dimensions in inches
H Extraction R
Taper 1 in 100 45 Taper 1 in 100
B
T C T
r
Section at Deep End
of Keyway in Hub Plain Taper Key Gib-Head Key

KEYS AND KEYWAYS

Diameter of Shaft Key Keyway in Shaft and Hub Gib-headb

Radius, R
Keyway in Shaft Keyway in Hub Nominal
Depth in Hub at Deep Keyway
Up to and Size, Width, W Thickness, T Depth in Shaft, H
Over Width, Ws Width, Wh End of Keyway, h A B C D
Including W×T Radius,ra
Max. Min. Max. Min. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max.
1⁄
1 11⁄4 5⁄ × 1⁄
16 4 0.314 0.312 0.254 0.249 0.311 0.312 0.312 0.313 0.146 0.152 0.090 0.096 0.010 3⁄
8
7⁄
16
1⁄
4 0.3 16
11⁄4 11⁄2 3⁄ × 1⁄
8 4 0.377 0.375 0.254 0.249 0.374 0.375 0.375 0.376 0.150 0.156 0.086 0.092 0.010 7⁄
16
7⁄
16
9⁄
32 0.3 1⁄
16
11⁄2 13⁄4 7⁄ × 5⁄
16 16 0.440 0.438 0.316 0.311 0.437 0.438 0.438 0.439 0.186 0.192 0.112 0.118 0.020 1⁄
2
9⁄
16
5⁄
16 0.4 1⁄
16
13⁄4 2 1⁄ × 5⁄
2 16 0.502 0.500 0.316 0.311 0.499 0.500 0.500 0.0.501 0.190 0.196 0.108 0.114 0.020 9⁄
16
5⁄
8
3⁄
8 0.4 1⁄
16
2 21⁄2 5⁄ × 7⁄
8 16 0.627 0.625 0.442 0.437 0.624 0.625 0.625 0.626 0.260 0.266 0.162 0.168 0.020 11⁄
16
3⁄
4
7⁄
16 0.5 1⁄
8
21⁄2 3 3⁄ × 1⁄
4 2 0.752 0.750 0.504 0.499 0.749 0.750 0.750 0.751 0.299 0.305 0.185 0.191 0.020 13⁄
16
7⁄
8
17⁄
32 0.5 1⁄
8
3 31⁄2 7⁄ × 5⁄
8 8 0.877 0.875 0.630 0.624 0.874 0.875 0.875 0.876 0.370 0.376 0.239 0.245 0.062 15⁄
16 1 21⁄
32 0.6 1⁄
8
31⁄2 4 1 × 3⁄4 1.003 1.000 0.755 0.749 0.999 1.000 1.000 1.001 0.441 0.447 0.293 0.299 0.062 11⁄16 11⁄4 23⁄
32 0.6 1⁄
8
4 5 1 ⁄4 × 7⁄8
1 1.253 1.250 0.880 0.874 1.248 1.250 1.250 1252 0.518 0.524 0.340 0.346 0.062 1 ⁄16
5 11⁄2 27⁄
32 0.7 1⁄
4
5 6 11⁄2 × 1 1.504 1.500 1.007 0.999 1.498 1.500 1.500 1.502 0.599 0.605 0.384 0.390 0.062 19⁄16 15⁄8 11⁄32 0.7 1⁄
4
6 7 13⁄4 × 11⁄4 1.754 1.750 1.257 1.249 1.748 1.750 1.750 1.752 0.740 0.746 0.493 0.499 0.125 113⁄16 2 17⁄32 0.8 1⁄
4
7 8 2 × 13⁄8 2.005 2.000 1.382 1.374 1.998 2.000 2.000 2.002 0.818 0.824 0.539 0.545 0.125 21⁄16 21⁄4 113⁄32 0.8 1⁄
4
8 9 21⁄4 × 11⁄2 2.255 2.250 1.509 1.499 2.248 2.250 2.250 2.252 0.897 0.905 0.581 0.589 0.125 25⁄16 21⁄2 19⁄16 0.9 3⁄
8
9 10 21⁄2 × 15⁄8 2.505 2.500 1.634 1.624 2.498 2.500 2.500 2.502 0.975 0.983 0.628 0.636 0.187 29⁄16 23⁄4 111⁄16 0.9 3⁄
8
10 11 23⁄4 × 17⁄8 2.755 2.750 1.884 1.874 2.748 2.750 2.750 2.752 1.114 1.122 0.738 0.746 0.187 213⁄16 3 115⁄16 1.0 3⁄
8
11 12 3×2 3.006 3.000 2.014 1.999 2.998 3.000 3.000 3.002 1.195 1.203 0.782 0.790 0.187 31⁄16 31⁄4 21⁄16 1.0 3⁄
8

a The key chamfer shall be the minimum to clear the keyway radius. Nominal values shall be given.

2363
b Dimensions A, B, C, D, and R pertain to gib-head keys only.

All dimensions in inches.

;;
;;
;;
;; ;

2364
;
Table 4. British Standard Square Taper Keys and Keyways, Gib-head or Plain B.S. 46: Part I: 1958
h Alternative Design Showing
a Parallel Extension with a A D
h
Drilled Hole To Facilitate All dimensions in inches
H Extraction R
Taper 1 in 100 45 Taper 1 in 100
B
r T C T
Section at Deep End
of Keyway in Hub Plain Taper Key Gib-Head Key

KEYS AND KEYWAYS

Diameter of Shaft Key Keyway in Shaft and Hub Gib-headb
Keyway in Shaft Keyway in Hub Depth in Hub Nominal
Up to and Size Width, W Thickness, T at Deep End Keyway Radius,
Over Width Ws Width Wh A B C D
Including W×T Depth in Shaft, H of Keyway, h Radius,ra R
Max. Min. Max. Min. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max.
1⁄ 1⁄ 1⁄ × 1⁄ 0.127 0.125 0.129 0.124 0.124 0.125 0.125 0.126 0.072 0.078 0.039 0.045 0.010 3⁄ 1⁄ 5⁄ 0.1 1⁄
4 2 8 8 16 4 32 32
1⁄ 3⁄ 3⁄ × 3⁄ 0.190 0.188 0.192 0.187 0.187 0.188 0.188 0.189 0.107 0.113 0.067 0.073 0.010 1⁄ 3⁄ 7⁄ 0.2 1⁄
2 4 16 16 4 8 32 32
3⁄ 1 1⁄ × 1⁄ 0.252 0.250 0.254 0.249 0.249 0.250 0.250 0.251 0.142 0.148 0.094 0.100 0.010 5⁄ 7⁄ 9⁄ 0.2 1⁄
4 4 4 16 16 32 16
1 11⁄4 5⁄ × 5⁄
16 16
0.314 0.312 0.316 0.311 0.311 0.312 0.312 0.313 0.177 0.183 0.121 0.127 0.010 3⁄
8
9⁄
16
11⁄
32
0.3 1⁄
16

11⁄4 11⁄2 3⁄ × 3⁄
8 8 0.377 0.375 0.379 0.374 0.374 0.375 0.375 0.376 0.213 0.219 0.148 0.154 0.010 7⁄
16
5⁄
8
13⁄
32 0.3 1⁄
16

11⁄2 13⁄4 7⁄ × 7⁄
16 16
0.440 0.438 0.442 0.437 0.437 0.438 0.438 0.439 0.248 0.254 0.175 0.181 0.020 1⁄
2
3⁄
4
15⁄
32
0.4 1⁄
16

13⁄4 2 1⁄ × 1⁄
2 2 0.502 0.500 0.504 0.499 0.499 0.500 0.500 0.501 0.283 0.289 0.202 0.208 0.020 9⁄
16
7⁄
8
17⁄
32 0.4 1⁄
16
2 21⁄2 5⁄ × 5⁄
8 8
0.627 0.625 0.630 0.624 0.624 0.625 0.625 0.626 0.354 0.360 0.256 0.262 0.020 11⁄
16
1 21⁄
32
0.5 1⁄
8

21⁄2 3 3⁄ × 3⁄
7 4 0.752 0.750 0.755 0.749 0.749 0.750 0.750 0.751 0.424 0.430 0.310 0.316 0.020 13⁄
16 11⁄4 25⁄
32 0.5 1⁄
8
3 31⁄2 7⁄ × 7⁄
8 8
0.877 0.875 0.880 0.874 0.874 0.875 0.875 0.876 0.495 0.501 0.364 0.370 0.062 15⁄
16 13⁄8 20⁄
32
0.6 1⁄
8

31⁄2 4 1×1 1.003 1.000 1.007 0.999 0.999 1.000 1.000 1.001 0.566 0.572 0.418 0.424 0.062 11⁄16 15⁄8 11⁄32 0.6 1⁄
8
4 5 11⁄4 × 1 1⁄4 1.253 1.250 1.257 1.249 1.248 1.250 1.250 1.252 0.707 0.713 0.526 0.532 0.062 15⁄16 2 19⁄32 0.7 1⁄
4
5 6 11⁄2 × 11⁄2 1.504 1.500 1.509 1.499 1.498 1.500 1.500 1.502 0.848 0.854 0.635 0.641 0.062 19⁄16 21⁄2 117⁄32 0.7 1⁄
4

a The key chamfer shall be the minimum to clear the keyway radius. Nominal values shall be given.
b Dimensions A, B, C, D, and R pertain to gib-head keys only.
All dimensions in inches.
Dimensions and Tolerances of British Woodruff Keys and Keyways.—Dimensions and tolerances are shown in Table 5. An optional alterna-
tive design of the Woodruff key that differs from the normal form in its depth is given in the illustration accompanying the table. The method of
designating British Woodruff Keys is the same as the American method explained in the footnote on page 2348.

KEYS AND KEYWAYS

Table 5. British Standard Woodruff Keys and Keyways BS 6: Part 1: 1958
Key Keyway Optional Design
Nominal Depth in Hub
Fractional Diameter Depth Thickness Width in Shaft, Width in Hub, Depth in Shaft, at Center Line, Depth of Key, Dimension,
Key and Size A B C D E F G H J
Cutter
No. Width. Dia. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Max. Min. Nom.

203 1⁄ 3⁄ 0.375 0.370 0.171 0.166 0.063 0.062 0.061 0.063 0.063 0.065 0.135 0.140 0.042 0.047 0.162 0.156 1⁄
16 8 64

303 3⁄ 3⁄ 0.375 0.370 0.171 0.166 0.095 0.094 0.093 0.095 0.095 0.097 0.119 0.124 0.057 0.062 0.162 0.156 1⁄
32 8 64

403 1⁄ 3⁄ 0.375 0.370 0.171 0.166 0.126 0.125 0.124 0.126 0.126 0.128 0.104 0.109 0.073 0.078 0.162 0.156 1⁄
8 8 64

204 1⁄ 1⁄ 0.500 0.490 0.203 0.198 0.063 0.062 0.061 0.063 0.063 0.065 0.167 0.172 0.042 0.047 0.194 0.188 3⁄
16 2 64

304 3⁄ 1⁄ 0.500 0.490 0.203 0.198 0.095 0.094 0.093 0.095 0.095 0.097 0.151 0.156 0.057 0.062 0.194 0.188 3⁄
32 2 64

404 1⁄ 1⁄ 0.500 0.490 0.203 0.198 0.126 0.125 0.124 0.126 0.126 0.128 0.136 0.141 0.073 0.078 0.194 0.188 3⁄
8 2 64

305 3⁄ 5⁄ 0.625 0.615 0.250 0.245 0.095 0.094 0.093 0.095 0.095 0.097 0.198 0.203 0.057 0.062 0.240 0.234 1⁄
32 8 16

405 1⁄ 5⁄ 0.625 0.615 0.250 0.245 0.126 0.125 0.124 0.126 0.126 0.128 0.182 0.187 0.073 0.078 0.240 0.234 1⁄
8 8 16

505 5⁄ 5⁄ 0.625 0.615 0.250 0.245 0.157 0.156 0.155 0.157 0.157 0.159 0.167 0.172 0.089 0.094 0.240 0.234 1⁄

2365
32 8 16

406 1⁄ 3⁄ 0.750 0.740 0.313 0.308 0.126 0.125 0.124 0.126 0.126 0.128 0.246 0.251 0.073 0.078 0.303 0.297 1⁄
8 4 16
 Table 5. (Continued) British Standard Woodruff Keys and Keyways BS 6: Part 1: 1958

2366
Key Keyway Optional Design

Nominal Depth in Hub

Fractional Diameter Depth Thickness Width in Shaft, Width in Hub, Depth in Shaft, at Center Line, Depth of Key, Dimension,
Key and Size A B C D E F G H J
Cutter
No. Width. Dia. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Max. Min. Nom.

506 5⁄ 3⁄ 0.750 0.740 0.313 0.308 0.157 0.156 0.155 0.157 0.157 0.159 0.230 0.235 0.089 0.094 0.303 0.297 1⁄
32 4 16

606 3⁄ 3⁄ 0.750 0.740 0.313 0.308 0.189 0.188 0.187 0.189 0.189 0.191 0.214 0.219 0.104 0.109 0.303 0.297 1⁄
16 4 16

507 5⁄ 7⁄ 0.875 0.865 0.375 0.370 0.157 0.156 0.155 0.157 0.157 0.159 0.292 0.297 0.089 0.094 0.365 0.359 1⁄
32 8 16

607 3⁄ 7⁄ 0.875 0.865 0.375 0.370 0.189 0.188 0.187 0.189 0.189 0.191 0.276 0.281 0.104 0.109 0.365 0.359 1⁄
16 8 16

KEYS AND KEYWAYS

807 1⁄ 7⁄ 0.875 0.865 0.375 0.370 0.251 0.250 0.249 0.251 0.251 0.253 0.245 0.250 0.136 0.141 0.365 0.359 1⁄
4 8 16

608 3⁄ 1 1.000 0.990 0.438 0.433 0.189 0.188 0.187 0.189 0.189 0.191 0.339 0.344 0.104 0.109 0.428 0.422 1⁄
16 16

808 1⁄ 1 1.000 0.990 0.438 0.433 0.251 0.250 0.249 0.251 0.251 0.253 0.308 0.313 0.136 0.141 0.428 0.422 1⁄
4 16

1008 5⁄ 1 1.000 0.990 0.438 0.433 0.313 0.312 0.311 0.313 0.313 0.315 0.277 0.282 0.167 0.172 0.428 0.422 1⁄
16 16

609 3⁄ 11⁄8 1.125 1.115 0.484 0.479 0.189 0.188 0.187 0.189 0.189 0.191 0.385 0.390 0.104 0.109 0.475 0.469 5⁄
16 64

809 1⁄ 11⁄8 1.125 1.115 0.484 0.479 0.251 0.250 0.249 0.251 0.251 0.253 0.354 0.359 0.136 0.141 0.475 0.469 5⁄
4 64

1009 5⁄ 11⁄8 1.125 1.115 0.484 0.479 0.313 0.312 0.311 0.313 0.313 0.315 0.323 0.328 0.167 0.172 0.475 0.469 5⁄
16 64

810 1⁄ 11⁄4 1.250 1.240 0.547 0.542 0.251 0.250 0.249 0.251 0.251 0.253 0.417 0.422 0.136 0.141 0.537 0.531 5⁄
4 64

1010 5⁄ 11⁄4 1.250 1.240 0.547 0.542 0.313 0.312 0.311 0.313 0.313 0.315 0.386 0.391 0.167 0.172 0.537 0.531 5⁄
16 64

1210 3⁄ 11⁄4 1.250 1.240 0.547 0.542 0.376 0.375 0.374 0.376 0.376 0.378 0.354 0.359 0.198 0.203 0.537 0.531 5⁄
8 64

1011 5⁄ 13⁄8 1.375 1.365 0.594 0.589 0.313 0.312 0.311 0.313 0.313 0.315 0.433 0.438 0.167 0.172 0.584 0.578 3⁄
16 32

1211 3⁄ 13⁄8 1.375 1.365 0.594 0.589 0.376 0.375 0.374 0.376 0.376 0.378 0.402 0.407 0.198 0.203 0.584 0.578 3⁄
8 32

812 1⁄ 11⁄2 1.500 1.490 0.641 0.636 0.251 0.250 0.249 0.251 0.251 0.253 0.511 0.516 0.136 0.141 0.631 0.625 7⁄
4 64

1012 5⁄ 11⁄2 1.500 1.490 0.641 0.636 0.313 0.312 0.311 0.313 0.313 0.315 0.480 0.485 0.167 0.172 0.631 0.625 7⁄
16 64

1212 3⁄ 11⁄2 1.500 1.490 0.641 0.636 0.376 0.375 0.374 0.376 0.376 0.378 0.448 0.453 0.198 0.203 0.631 0.625 7⁄
8 64

All dimensions are in inches.

 KEYS AND KEYWAYS 2367

Table 6. British Preferred Lengths of Plain (Parallel or Taper) and Gib-head Keys,
Rectangular and Square Section BS 46:Part 1:1958 (1985) Appendix

D W
Plain Key Size Overall Length, L
W×T 3⁄
4 1 11⁄4 11⁄2 13⁄4 2 21⁄4 21⁄2 23⁄4 3 31⁄2 4 41⁄2 5 6
1⁄ × 1⁄ X X
8 8
3⁄ × 3⁄ X X X X X X
16 16
1⁄ × 1⁄ X X X X X X X X X X
4 4
5⁄ × 1⁄ X X X X X X X X X X
16 4
5⁄ × 5⁄ X X X X X X X X X X
16 16
3⁄ × 1⁄ X X X X X X X X X X X
8 4
3⁄ × 3⁄ X X X X X X X X X X X
8 8
7⁄ × 5⁄ X X X X X X X X X
16 16
7⁄ × 7⁄ X X X X X X X X
16 16
1⁄ × 5⁄ X X X X X X X X X X
2 16
1⁄ × 1⁄ X X X X X X X X X
2 2
5⁄ × 7⁄ X X X X X X X
8 16
5⁄ × 5⁄ X X X X X X X
8 8
3⁄ × 1⁄ X X X X X X
4 2
3⁄ × 3⁄ X X X X X
4 4
7⁄ × 5⁄ X X X X X
8 8

L W
Gib-head Key Size, Overall Length, L
W×T 11⁄2 13⁄4 2 21⁄4 21⁄2 23⁄4 3 31⁄2 4 41⁄2 5 51⁄2 6 61⁄2 7 71⁄2 8
3⁄ × 3⁄ X X X X X X
16 16
1⁄ × 1⁄ X X X X X X X X X
4 4
5⁄ × 1⁄ X X X X X X X
16 4
5⁄ × 5⁄ X X X X X X X X
16 16
3⁄ × 1⁄ X X X X X X X X X
8 4
3⁄ × 3⁄ X X X X X X X X X X X
8 8
7⁄ × 5⁄ X X X X X X X X
16 16
7⁄ × 7⁄ X X X X X X X X
16 16
1⁄ × 5⁄ X X X X X X X X X
2 16
1⁄ × 1⁄ X X X X X X X X X
2 2
5⁄ × 7⁄ X X X X X X X X
8 16
5⁄ × 5⁄ X X X X X X X X
8 8
3⁄ × 1⁄ X X X X X X X X X
4 2
3⁄ × 3⁄ X X X X X
4 4
7⁄ × 5⁄ X X X X X X
8 8
7⁄ × 7⁄ X X X
8 8
1 × ⁄4
3 X X X X
1×1 X X X

All dimension are in inches

2368 FLAT BELTS AND PULLEYS

Flat Belting
Flat belting was originally made from leather because it was the most durable material
available and could easily be cut and joined to make a driving belt suitable for use with
cylindrical or domed pulleys. This type of belting was popular because it could be used to
transmit high torques over long distances and it was employed in factories to drive many
small machines from a large common power source such as a steam engine. As electric
motors became smaller, more efficient, and more powerful, and new types of belts and
chains were made possible by modern materials and manufacturing processes, flat belts
fell out of favor. Flat belts are still used for some drive purposes, but leather has been
replaced by other natural and synthetic materials such as urethanes, which can be rein-
forced by high-strength polyamide or steel fabrics to provide properties such as resistance
to stretching. The high modulus of elasticity in these flat belts eliminates the need for peri-
odic retensioning that is usually necessary with V-belts.
Driving belts can be given a coating of an elastomer with a high coefficient of friction, to
enable belts to grip pulleys without the degree of tension common with earlier materials.
Urethanes are commonly used for driving belts where high resistance to abrasion is
required, and will also resist attack by chemical solvents of most kinds. Flat belts having
good resistance to high temperatures are also available. Typical properties of polyurethane
belts include tensile strength up to 40,000 psi, depending on reinforcement type and Shore
hardness of 85 to 95. Most polyurethane belts are installed under tension. The amount of
the tension varies with the belt cross-section, being greater for belts of small section. Belt
tension can be measured by marking lines 10 in. apart on an installed belt, then applying
tension until the separation increases by the desired percentage. For 2 per cent tension, the
lines on the tensioned belt would be 10.2 in. apart. Mechanical failure may result when belt
tensioning is excessive, and 2 to 2.5 per cent elongation should be regarded as the limit.
Flat belts offer high load capacities and are capable of transmitting power over long dis-
tances, maintaining relative rotational direction, can operate without lubricants, and are
generally inexpensive to maintain or replace when worn. Flat belt systems will operate
with little maintenance and only periodic adjustment. Because they transmit motion by
friction, flat belts have the ability to slip under excessive loads, providing a fail-safe action
to guard against malfunctions. This advantage is offset by the problem that friction drives
can both slip and creep so that they do not offer exact, consistent velocity ratios nor preci-
sion timing between input and output shafts. Flat belts can be made to any desired length,
being joined by reliable chemical bonding processes.
Increasing centrifugal force has less effect on the load-carrying capacity of flat belts at
high speeds than it has on V-belts, for instance. The low thickness of a flat belt, compared
with a V-belt, places its center of gravity near the pulley surface. Flat belts therefore may
be run at surface speeds of up to 16,000 or even 20,000 ft/min (81.28 and 101.6 m/s),
although ideal speeds are in the range of 3,000 to 10,000 ft/min (15.25 to 50.8 m/s). Elasto-
meric drive surfaces on flat belts have eliminated the need for belt dressings that were often
needed to keep leather belts in place. These surface coatings can also contain antistatic
materials. Belt pulley wear and noise are low with flat belts shock and vibration are
damped, and efficiency is generally greater than 98 per cent compared with 96 per cent for
V-belts.
Driving belt load capacities can be calculated from torque T = F(d/2) and horsepower HP
= T × rpm/396,000, where T is the torque in in.-lb, F is the force transmitted in lb, and d is
the pulley diameter in in. Pulley width is usually about 10 per cent larger than the belt, and
for good tracking, pulleys are often crowned by 0.012 to 0.10 in. for diameters in the range
of 1.5 to 80 in.
Before a belt specification is written, the system should be checked for excessive startup
and shut-down loads, which sometimes are more than 10 per cent above operating condi-
tions. In overcoming such loads, the belt will transmit considerably more force than during
 FLAT BELTS AND PULLEYS 2369

normal operation. Large starting and stopping forces will also shorten belt life unless they
are taken into account during the design stage.

Belt speed plays an important role in the amount of load a friction drive system can trans-
mit. Higher speeds will require higher preloads (increased belt tension) to compensate for
the higher centrifugal force. In positive drive (toothed belt) systems, higher speeds gener-
ate dynamic forces caused by unavoidable tolerance errors that may result in increased
tooth or pin stresses and shorter belt life.

Pulley Diameters and Drive Ratios: Minimum pulley diameters determined by belt
manufacturers are based on the minimum radius that a belt can wrap around a pulley with-
out stressing the load-carrying members. For positive drive systems, minimum pulley
diameters are also determined by the minimum number of teeth that must be engaged with
the sprocket to guarantee the operating load.

Diameters of driving and driven pulleys determine the velocity ratio of the input relative
to the output shaft and are derived from the following formulas: for all belt systems, veloc-
ity ratio V = Dpi/Dpo, and for positive (toothed) drive systems, velocity ratio V = Ni/No,
where Dpi is the pitch diameter of the driving pulley, Dpo is the pitch diameter of the driven
pulley, Ni is the number of teeth on the driving pulley, and No is the number of teeth on the
driven pulley. For most drive systems, a velocity ratio of 8:1 is the largest that should be
attempted with a single reduction drive, and 6:1 is a reasonable maximum.

Wrap Angles and Center-to-Center Distances: The radial distance for which the belt is
in contact with the pulley surface, or the number of teeth in engagement for positive drive
belts, is called the wrap angle. Belt and sprocket combinations should be chosen to ensure
a wrap angle of about 120° around the smaller pulley. The wrap angle should not be less
than 90°, especially with positive drive belts, because if too few teeth are in engagement,
the belt may jump a tooth or pin and timing or synchronization may be lost.

For flat belts, the minimum allowable center-to-center distance (CD) for any belt-and-
sprocket combination should be chosen to ensure a minimum wrap angle around the
smaller pulley. For high-velocity systems, a good rule of thumb is a minimum CD equal to
the sum of the pitch diameter of the larger sprocket and one-half the pitch diameter of the
smaller sprocket. This formula ensures a minimum wrap angle of approximately 120°,
which is generally sufficient for friction drives and will ensure that positive drive belts do
not jump teeth.

Pulley Center Distances and Belt Lengths: Maximum center distances of pulleys should
be about 15 to 20 times the pitch diameter of the smaller pulley. Greater spacing requires
tight control of the belt tension because a small amount of stretch will cause a large drop in
tension. Constant belt tension can be obtained by application of an adjustable tensioning
pulley applied to the slack side of the belt. Friction drive systems using flat belts require
much more tension than positive drive belt systems.

Belt length can be calculated from: L = 2C + π(D2 + D1)/2 + (D2 − D1)2/4C for friction
drives, and length L = 2C + π(D2 + D1)/2 + (D2 + D1)2/4C for crossed belt friction belt
drives, where C is the center distance, D1 is the pitch diameter of the small pulley, and D2 is
the pitch diameter of the large pulley. For serrated belt drives, the length determined by use
of these equations should be divided by the serration pitch. The belt length must then be
adjusted to provide a whole number of serrations.
2370 PULLEY SPEEDS AND BELT LENGTHS

Calculating Diameters and Speeds of Pulleys

Pulley Diameters and Speeds.—If D = diameter of driving pulley, d = diameter of driven
pulley, S = speed of driving pulley, and s = speed of driven pulley:
d×s D×S d×s D×S
D = -----------, d = -------------, S = -----------, and s = -------------
S s D d
Example 1:If the diameter of the driving pulley D is 24 inches, its speed is 100 rpm, and
the driven pulley is to run at 600 rpm, the diameter of the driven pulley, d = 24 × 100⁄600 =
4 inches.
Example 2:If the diameter of the driven pulley d is 36 inches, its required speed is to be
150 rpm, and the speed of the driving pulley is to be 600 rpm, the diameter of the driving
pulley D = 36 × 150⁄600 = 9 inches.
Example 3:If the diameter of the driven pulley d is 4 inches, its required speed is 800 rpm,
and the diameter of the driving pulley D is 26 inches, the speed of the driving pulley = 4 ×
800⁄26 = 123 rpm.
Example 4:If the diameter of the driving pulley D is 15 inches and its speed is 180 rpm,
and the diameter of the driven pulley d is 9 inches, then the speed of the driven pulley = 15
× 180⁄9 = 300 rpm.
Pulley Diameters in Compound Drive.—If speeds of driving and driven pulleys, A, B,
C, and D (see illustration) are known, the first step in finding their diameters is to form a
fraction with the driving pulley speed as the numerator and the driven pulley speed as the,
denominator, and then reduce this fraction to its lowest terms. Resolve the numerator and
the denominator into two pairs of factors (a pair being one factor in the numerator and one
in the denominator) and, if necessary, multiply each pair by a trial number that will give
pulleys of suitable diameters.
Example:If the speed of pulley A is 260 rpm and the required speed of pulley D is 720
rpm, find the diameters of the four pulleys. Reduced to its lowest terms, the fraction
260⁄720 = 13⁄36, which represents the required speed ratio. Resolve this ratio 13⁄36 into
two factors:
13 1 × 13
------ = ---------------
36 2 × 18
Multiply by trial numbers 12 and 1 to get:
( 1 × 12 ) × ( 13 × 1 ) 12 × 13
---------------------------------------------- = ------------------
( 2 × 12 ) × ( 18 × 1 ) 24 × 18

A B

C
D

Compound Drive with Four Pulleys.

The values 12 and 13 in the numerator represent the diameters of the driven pulleys, B
and D, and the values 24 and 18 in the denominator represent the diameters of the driving
pulleys, A and C, as shown in the illustration.
 PULLEY SPEEDS AND BELT LENGTHS 2371

Speed of Driven Pulley in Compound Drive.—If diameters of pulleys A, B, C, and D

(see illustration above), and speed of pulley A are known, the speed of the driven pulley D
is found from:
driving pulley diameter driving pulley diameter
-------------------------------------------------------- × -------------------------------------------------------- × speed of first driving pulley
driven pulley diameter driven pulley diameter

Example:If the diameters of driving pulleys A and C are 18 and 24 inches, diameters of
driven pulleys B and D are 12 and 13 inches, and the speed of driving pulley A is 260 rpm,
speed of driven pulley
18 × 24
D = ------------------ × 260 = 720 rpm
12 × 13

Length of Belt Traversing Three Pulleys.—The length L of a belt traversing three pul-
leys, as shown in the diagram below, and touching them on one side only, can be found by
the following formula.

Pulley 2,
Radius R2 = 2
␣ 2 =36.87 ,
or 0.6435 rad.

C23 = 8 C12 = 10

␣ 1 = 53.13 ,
or 0.9273 rad.
␣3 = 90 ,
or 1.5708 rad.
Pulley 1,
Radius R1 = 1
Pulley 3, C13 = 6
Radius R3 = 4

Flat Belt Traversing Three Pulleys.

Referring to the diagram, R1, R2, and R3 are the radii of the three pulleys; C12, C13, and C23
are the center distances; and α1, α2, and α3 are the angles, in radians, of the triangle formed
by the center distances. Then:

1 ( R2 – R1 )
2 ( R – R )2 ( R – R )2
3 1 3 2
L = C12 + C 13 + C 23 + --- ------------------------- + ------------------------- + -------------------------
2 C 12 C 13 C 23

+π ( R 1 + R 2 + R 3 ) – ( α 1 R 1 + α 2 R 2 + α 3 R 3 )

For example: assume R1 = 1, R2 = 2, R3 = 4, C12 = 10, C13 = 6, C23 = 8, α1 = 53.13 degrees

or 0.9273 radian, α2 = 36.87 degrees or 0.6435 radian, and α3 = 90 degrees or 1.5708 radi-
ans. Then:

1 ( 2 – 1 ) 2 ( 4 – 1 )2 ( 4 – 2 )2
L = 10 + 6 + 8 + --- ---------------- + ------------------- + -------------------
2 10 6 8
+π ( 1 + 2 + 4 ) – 0.9273 × 1 + 0.6435 × 2 + 1.5708 × 4
= 24 + 1.05 + 21.9911 – 8.4975 = 38.5436