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Woodruff Keys

Stocking the full range of both standard Metric and Imperial Woodruff keys or if required we are able to manufacture Woodruff Keys to your specification. If you are looking for a specific Woodruff Key Number just give us a call and we will help track down the specification of it's design.woodruff keys 220x220


We have a variety of woodruff key sizes. Our Woodruff Keys are available in Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel ask our sales office for a quote or login with your B2B account today to save upto an additional 5% order value dependant.

Standard Woodruff key Profiles for shafts with Woodruff keyways.

  • Metric - 1.5mm x 2.6 - 10mm x 16mm
  • Imperial - 1/6" x 1/4" - 3/4" x 3.1/2"
  • Metric BS4235 Part 1 1977, ISO3912 - 1977, DIN6888
  • Imperial BS46 Part 1 1958 
  • Keysteel 080M40 (EN8)
  • Werkstoff C45 +C
  • Werkstoff 1.4571
  • A2 303/304 grade stainless steel
  • A4 316 grade stainless steel
  • Assorment Woodruff Key Kits


Useful Links:

How to remove a Woodruff key

What is a Woodruff Key

 

Specification Woodruff Keys BS46 Part1 1958

Specification Woodruff Keys DIN6888 

Utilize the filters like a Woodruff key size chart to easily find the size you need or phone us and we will happily support you with your request.

 

* Prices are for current stock levels if additional stock is required we will advise any price diffenence on receipt of your order 

Sort by
Product SKU +/-
1/16 X 1/4 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 6

+ £
1/16 X 5/16 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 5

+ £
1/16 X 3/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 203

Minimum order amount: 5

+ £
1/16 X 1/2 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 204

Minimum order amount: 8

+ £
3/32 X 5/16 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 7

+ £
3/32 X 3/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 303

Minimum order amount: 9

+ £
3/32 X 1/2 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 304

Minimum order amount: 8

+ £
3/32 X 5/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 305

Minimum order amount: 19

+ £
1/8 X 3/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 403

Minimum order amount: 7

+ £
1/8 X 1/2 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 404

Minimum order amount: 13

+ £
1/8 X 5/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 405

Minimum order amount: 18

+ £
1/8 X 3/4 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 406

Minimum order amount: 9

+ £
1/8 X 7/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 2

+ £
5/32 X 5/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 505

Minimum order amount: 13

+ £
5/32 X 3/4 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 506

Minimum order amount: 11

+ £
5/32 X 7/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 507

Minimum order amount: 8

+ £
3/16 X 5/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 11

+ £
3/16 X 3/4 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 606

Minimum order amount: 10

+ £
3/16 X 7/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 607

Minimum order amount: 7

+ £
3/16 X 1 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 608

Minimum order amount: 6

+ £
3/16 X 1.1/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 609

Minimum order amount: 4

+ £
3/16 X 1.1/4 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 3

+ £
3/16 X 2.1/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 4

+ £
7/32 X 7/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 14

+ £
7/32 X 1 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 7

+ £
7/32 X 1.1/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 4

+ £
7/32 X 1.1/4 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 3

+ £
1/4 X 3/4 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 7

+ £
1/4 X 7/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 807

Minimum order amount: 9

+ £
1/4 X 1 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 808

Minimum order amount: 4

+ £
1/4 X 1.1/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 809

Minimum order amount: 4

+ £
1/4 X 1.1/4 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 810

Minimum order amount: 3

+ £
1/4 X 1.3/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 5

+ £
1/4 X 1.1/2 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 812

Minimum order amount: 2

+ £
1/4 X 2.1/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 2

+ £
1/4 X 2.3/4 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 2

+ £
1/4 X 2.7/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 2

+ £
5/16 X 1 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 1008

Minimum order amount: 5

+ £
5/16 X 1.1/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 1009

Minimum order amount: 4

+ £
5/16 X 1.1/4 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 1010

Minimum order amount: 2

+ £
5/16 X 1.3/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 1011

Minimum order amount: 2

+ £
5/16 X 1.1/2 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 1012

Minimum order amount: 2

+ £
5/16 X 2.1/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel SAE Std 128

Minimum order amount: 2

+ £
5/16 X 2.3/4 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 2

+ £
3/8 X 1 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46

Minimum order amount: 8

+ £
3/8 X 1.1/4 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 1210

Minimum order amount: 2

+ £
3/8 X 1.3/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 1211

Minimum order amount: 2

+ £
3/8 X 1.1/2 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel BS46 1212

Minimum order amount: 1

+ £
3/8 X 2.1/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel 129

Minimum order amount: 2

+ £
3/8 X 2.1/8 WOODRUFF KEY Carbon Steel 29

Minimum order amount: 2

+ £
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Woodruff semicircular keys

 

These semicircular keys when set in place leave a flat end protruding. The keyway is a semi-circular pocket set into the shaft. These pockets can be set by a cutter to set the dimensions. Woodruff Keys are used to improve the concentricity of the shaft for high-speed operation. The main advantage is eliminating making a keyway near areas that have stress. The materials of Woodruff keys like keysteel and stainless steel can be ordered online but they can be found made of other materials such as Aluminum.

 

What is a woodruff key?

 

In 1888 W.N. Woodruff developed and invented the Woodruff key to mate parts to rotating shafts. He came up with the idea so that a portion of the key protrudes.  The key then prevents the part slipped over the shaft from freely rotating. Common uses are for machine tools, snowblowers, lawnmowers, Chainsaws, and propellers etc.Most motor

Most motor manufacturers such as Honda use Woodruff keys.

 

This design eliminates the need for expensive milling to integrate a tab into the shaft. The design also helps to keep alignment with the shaft and attached part to reduce vibration and wear at high speeds. 

 

Also know as Crank keys, Crankshaft keys, Harmonic damper key, key damper retainer or harmonic balancer retainer key?

 

The Woodruff Key is also called a crank key, crankshaft key, harmonic damper key, key damper retainer or harmonic balancer retainer key mostly due to its use.  These keys come in many of sizes be it metric or imperial profiles.

If you have questions about these feel free to give us a call on +44(0)1384 634461

FAQs about Woodruff Keys

  • What are Woodruff keys and how do they work?

    • Woodruff keys, including stainless steel Woodruff keys, are small, semicircular metal components used to secure rotating machine parts to a shaft. Made of durable stainless steel, these keys offer enhanced corrosion resistance, making them suitable for applications in harsh environments. The stepped Woodruff key is another variation, featuring multiple steps that provide additional stability and improved load distribution. When inserted into the keyway, a Woodruff key creates a mechanical interference fit, preventing rotational slippage or independent movement of the attached component. This vital connection ensures efficient power transmission, maintaining the alignment and performance of the machinery.

      The purpose of a Woodruff key is to provide a secure and non-slip connection between a rotating component and a shaft. By fitting into a specifically shaped keyway and slot, Woodruff keys eliminate the need for additional fasteners and allow for easy disassembly if required. Woodruff keys are widely used in various applications, including automotive engines, lawn mowers, motorcycles (such as Vespa), and industrial machinery. Their primary function is to prevent the attached component from rotating or shifting independently, ensuring efficient power transmission, precise alignment, and reliable operation.

  • What are the different sizes of Woodruff keys available?

    • Woodruff keys are available in various sizes, and their dimensions are often specified in charts or tables. You can find a woodruff key size chart in PDF format, which provides a comprehensive reference for selecting the right key for your application. The sizes range from the commonly used 1/4, 1/8, 3/16 inch to metric measurements like 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, and larger variations such as 606, 404, and 406 woodruff keys. These sizes cater to different shaft diameters and keyway dimensions, ensuring a proper fit for your specific requirements.

      Our pdfs can be found at the top of the page.

      In addition to the standard sizes, there are also stepped Woodruff keys available. These keys feature multiple steps or levels that provide additional stability and load distribution, making them suitable for applications with higher torque or heavy-duty machinery. The stepped design allows for a more secure and reliable connection between the component and the shaft.

  • How do you install a Woodruff key on a crankshaft?

    • To install a Woodruff key on a crankshaft, proper installation techniques are crucial. Begin by ensuring that both the keyway and key are clean and free from debris. Apply a thin layer of lubricant, such as grease or oil, to facilitate insertion and prevent corrosion. Gently slide the Woodruff key into the keyway, ensuring it aligns with the corresponding slot on the component. Use a soft-faced hammer or a wooden block to tap the key evenly and firmly into place. Once fully seated, check for flush alignment between the key and the surrounding surfaces. A secure and precise Woodruff key installation ensures optimal performance and longevity of the machinery.

      In cases where the Woodruff key becomes stuck or difficult to remove, it is important to exercise caution and avoid excessive force that could damage the keyway or the shaft. If a Woodruff key is stuck, applying penetrating oil or a suitable rust-removing agent can help loosen the key. Using a key removal tool or a flat-headed screwdriver, gently tap the key from different angles to dislodge it. Taking gradual steps and ensuring the keyway remains undamaged during the removal process is essential. If the key remains stuck or damaged, it is recommended to seek professional assistance to avoid further complications.

  • What are the symptoms of a broken Woodruff key?

    • When a Woodruff key breaks or fails, several symptoms may indicate the issue. These symptoms include loss of power or efficiency in the machinery or engine, unusual noises, vibrations, or rattling during operation, rotational slippage or misalignment of the attached component, irregular or jerky movement of the machinery, and, in extreme cases, complete disconnection or separation of the component from the shaft. It is important to recognize these symptoms and promptly inspect and replace the broken Woodruff key to prevent further damage or potential system failure.

      If you suspect a broken Woodruff key, it is advisable to shut down the machinery or engine immediately to prevent further damage. Inspect the key and the keyway for any signs of damage, wear, or shearing. If the Woodruff key is broken, it must be replaced with a new one that matches the correct size and dimensions for the specific application. Proper installation and alignment of the new key are essential to ensure reliable and safe operation of the machinery.

  • Where can I buy Woodruff keys?

    • You can easily find Woodruff keys for sale from various reputable sources. Online platforms, such as e-commerce websites, offer a wide selection of Woodruff keys, allowing you to conveniently compare prices, sizes, and materials. Additionally, local hardware stores, industrial supply companies, and specialized tooling suppliers often stock Woodruff keys in various sizes and materials. Consider contacting Woodruff key suppliers in your area or browse their catalogs to find the specific Woodruff keys you need for your application.

      When purchasing Woodruff keys, it is important to ensure the quality and compatibility of the product. Look for reputable suppliers or manufacturers known for producing high-quality Woodruff keys that meet industry standards. Consider factors such as material composition, durability, and corrosion resistance, especially if your application requires stainless steel Woodruff keys or specific material specifications. Reading customer reviews and checking for certifications or quality assurance standards can further aid in making an informed purchase decision.

  • What is an Imperial Woodruff key?

    • An Imperial Woodruff key refers to a Woodruff key designed and measured using the imperial measurement system. Imperial Woodruff keys are commonly used in countries that adopt the imperial measurement standard, such as the United States. These keys are available in sizes that correspond to imperial shaft and keyway dimensions, ensuring compatibility with machinery or components using imperial standards. Imperial Woodruff keys offer a reliable solution for applications requiring adherence to the imperial measurement system.

      In addition to the standard Imperial Woodruff keys, there are also metric Woodruff keys available for applications that follow metric measurements. These metric Woodruff keys are designed and measured using the metric system and provide compatibility with machinery and components that utilize metric standards. When selecting a Woodruff key, it is crucial to consider the specific measurement system used in your application to ensure proper fit and functionality.

      Overall, Woodruff keys, whether in imperial or metric sizes, play a vital role in securing rotating components to shafts, preventing slippage, and ensuring efficient power transmission. Understanding the different sizes, installation techniques, and where to purchase Woodruff keys will help you select the appropriate key for your specific application and maintain the optimal performance of your machinery or engine.

  • What is the purpose of a Woodruff key?

    • The purpose of a Woodruff key, regardless of its size or material composition, is to provide a secure and non-slip connection between a rotating component and a shaft. By fitting into a specifically shaped keyway and slot, Woodruff keys eliminate the need for additional fasteners and allow for easy disassembly if required. This key serves as a mechanical interference fit, preventing rotational slippage or independent movement of the attached component. The precise alignment achieved through a properly installed Woodruff key ensures efficient power transmission, reduces wear and tear, and extends the overall lifespan of the machinery or engine.

  • What are the advantages of using Woodruff keys?

    • Using Woodruff keys offers several advantages in various applications. Firstly, Woodruff keys provide a compact and efficient means of connecting rotating components to shafts without the need for additional fasteners or complex mechanisms. This streamlined design allows for easier assembly, disassembly, and maintenance of the machinery or engine. Additionally, Woodruff keys distribute the load evenly across the keyway, reducing stress concentration and enhancing the overall strength and durability of the connection.

      Furthermore, Woodruff keys can accommodate slight misalignments between the shaft and the component, allowing for smoother operation and mitigating the risk of premature wear or damage. The ability to transmit high torque and resist axial movement makes Woodruff keys suitable for heavy-duty applications. They are also available in various sizes and materials, providing flexibility to match the specific requirements of different applications.

  • Where can I find a Woodruff key assortment?

    • If you are looking for a Woodruff key assortment, your best options are typically online tool suppliers, industrial supply stores, or specialty hardware retailers. These sources often offer assortments or kits that contain multiple sizes of Woodruff keys, allowing you to have a range of options readily available for different projects or repairs. These assortments typically come in organized cases or trays, making it convenient to access and store the Woodruff keys.

      When purchasing a Woodruff key assortment, consider factors such as the range of sizes included, the quality of the keys, and any additional features or accessories provided. It is essential to ensure that the assortment covers the sizes you commonly use or may require in your applications. Reading customer reviews and checking the reputation of the supplier or manufacturer can help you make an informed decision and select a reliable Woodruff key assortment that meets your needs.

  • What is a Woodruff key cutter, and how does it work?

    • A Woodruff key cutter is a specialized cutting tool used to create keyways or slots in shafts for the installation of Woodruff keys. This cutter features a cylindrical or disc-shaped body with multiple cutting teeth or flutes on its periphery. The design of the Woodruff key cutter allows it to cut a semicircular keyway that matches the shape of the Woodruff key. The cutter is typically mounted on a milling machine or a specialized cutting tool holder.

      To use a Woodruff key cutter, the shaft is securely clamped or fixed in place, and the cutter is carefully aligned with the desired location for the keyway. The milling machine or cutting tool holder is then activated, causing the Woodruff key cutter to rotate. As the cutter spins, its cutting teeth remove material from the shaft, gradually creating the keyway. The process continues until the desired depth and dimensions of the keyway are achieved. With the keyway completed, a Woodruff key can be installed, providing a secure connection between the shaft and the attached component.

      Remember to follow proper safety precautions when operating a Woodruff key cutter, such as wearing protective gear and ensuring the work area is secure and well-ventilated. It is also important to use the appropriate cutting speed and feed rate to achieve accurate and clean keyway cuts.
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