Mark/B-LOC: Using keyless locking devices in place of keys, splines, and shrink or press fits typically means savings in other areas of machine design, such as smaller shafts and bearings and simplified machining. PT components can be positioned anywhere along a shaft without regard to keyway placement or access for mounting or removal tools. Keyless locking devices require only torque wrench access for installation and adequate hub strength of mounted components.Carl/Ringfeder: The main reasons to use locking devices are to eliminate backlash in a connection, eliminate troublesome assembly or disassembly later on, and to have some adjustment to a connection during the lifetime of the component. Traditional shrink fit and press fit methods of attaching components to shafts don''t allow for easy adjustment or removal. Some connections will never be loosened; so attaching them with a locking device only makes sense when using it facilitates assembly. Employing keyless locking devices in the design means smaller shaft sizes because the stress concentration factors of keyways is eliminated. Smaller shaft sizes, in turn, mean smaller bearings and other mating components AirTooljosesReels can be employed.

Mark/B-LOC: Using keyless locking devices in place of keys, splines, and shrink or press fits typically means savings in other areas of machine design, such as smaller shafts and bearings and simplified machining. PT components can be positioned anywhere along a shaft without regard to keyway placement or access for mounting or removal tools. Keyless locking devices require only torque wrench access for installation and adequate hub strength of mounted components.Carl/Ringfeder: The main reasons to use locking devices are to eliminate backlash in a connection, eliminate troublesome assembly or disassembly later on, and to have some adjustment to a connection during the lifetime of the component. Traditional shrink fit and press fit methods of attaching components to shafts don''t allow for easy adjustment or removal. Some connections will never be loosened; so attaching them with a locking device only makes sense when using it facilitates assembly. Employing keyless locking devices in the design means smaller shaft sizes because the stress concentration factors of keyways is eliminated. Smaller shaft sizes, in turn, mean smaller bearings and other mating components AirTooljosesReels can be employed.

Another important thing to consider is minimum hub thickness, which is calculated based on such factors as locking device outer diameter and surface pressure. The hub should be thicker than this value to prevent excess stress and early failure. Locking device manufacturers typically provide this formula.Andrew/Whittet-Higgins: Consider all costs of the assembly rather than the individual costs of each component.Keith/U.S. Tsubaki: Go keyless. Keys and splines weaken the shaft by cutting into it, requiring a larger shaft and accompanying parts, such as bearings, to handle the higher forces.End-user adviceWhat should END USERS do to maximize life and productivity?Carl/Ringfeder: Pay close attention to the OEM''s service instructions and use the locking device manufacturer''s technical information to help with replacement AirTooljosesReels or reinstallation. AirTooljosesReels Warren/Fenner: In general, locking devices don''t require any maintenance or special attention to maintain their performance and maximum life.