Standard Flat Key

A flat key is a type of key that relies on its two lateral surfaces as the working faces and transmits torque through the extrusion between the key and the sides of the keyway. Flat keys are categorized into three types: standard flat keys, thin flat keys, and guided flat keys. Standard flat keys have good alignment, high positioning accuracy, and are easy to install and remove, but they do not provide axial fixation of the parts on the shaft, and are used for shafts that operate at high speeds or bear impact and variable loads. Thin flat keys are used in thin-walled structures and where the torque to be transmitted is relatively small. Guided flat keys are fixed to the shaft with screws and are used in situations where the parts on the shaft have minimal movement along the axis.