Polygonal shafts are used in power transmission as alternatives to keyed and splined shafts. They are designed using DIN standards. This research explores the loading strength of the standardized three lobed (P3G) and four lobed (P4C) polygonal shafts and hubs manufactured from the same stock size, subjected to torsional bending load at various fits. Due to complex conformal contact (nonlinear model) between the shaft and the hub, there is no analytical solution and, therefore, Finite Element Method had been used to determine the stresses, after validating experimentally and using the DIN standard. From the analysis, it was found that the hub experienced greater stress than the shaft in all cases and the major stress in a polygonal shaft and hub connection is the contact stress. The clearance fit was found to be the most detrimental fit and the interference fit to be the most suitable for larger power transmission. Owing to its small normal axial stress and hub displacement, the P4C clearance fit has its use in low power transmission where a sliding fit is a requirement. The maximum von Mises stress was located below the surface for P4C and P3G clearance fit, suggesting failure from pitting and fretting on these shafts. All of the stresses were found to be higher in P4C than P3G for similar loading. Therefore, for general use, the P3G profile with an interference fit is recommended.
Development of plastic gears for power transmission. Economical design on load-carrying capacity.
