Milling of Rectangular Keys
Milling of rectangular keys is an important secondary machining process and is used to form keyways in machine shafts. Various standard sizes of rectangular parallel keys are available in a number of materials. While they are often small in size, they are critical components in various machines, as they securely hold components together and transmit torque.
In milling of rectangular keys, the keyway is produced relative to the axis of rotation of the shaft and is parallel with its length. The keyway can be machined by turning the key head with a single-point cutting tool, using a lathe. However, in order to cut a keyway with greater accuracy and accuracy, milling is normally the preferred method.
Milling involves the use of rotating cutters that can form the keyway in electric or hydraulic machines. The keyway is formed in two passes. The first pass is used to rough out the outline of the keyway, while the second pass is used to refine the keyway to its target dimensions.
In order for the keyway to be cut and produced with high accuracy and precision, a variety of parameters need to be taken into account. These include the permissible length and width of the keyway, the material of the key itself, the cutting speeds, the lubrication and coolant used, and the type of the cutter being used.
The cutter used in milling of rectangular keys is usually a single-point cutting tool. The cutter is designed so that, in addition to the cutting edges, it also has a grinding surface. This grinding surface grinds away any burrs or undersize material to create a smooth and accurate surface.
In order to ensure that the keyway is cut accurately to size and that the finished product is suitable for its intended application, a number of quality control measures need to be put in place. These include regular inspections of the keyways during and after the milling process to check for accuracy, checking the tolerances and depth of the keyways, and testing the finished keyway with a suitable go-no-go gauge or similar device.
Milling of rectangular keys is an important secondary machining process that is used to form keyways in machine shafts. It is important that the parameters of the process are taken into account, as well as quality control measures, in order to ensure the accuracy and precision of the finished product.
