Quill Shaft

Quill Shaft is a type of shaft used to couple parts of an engine or machine, often those subject to torsional loads, and it is characterized by a long, thin, hardened shaft with splines on each end for connecting to other components.

Machines can be coupled together by a shaft with a diameter which is just adequate to transmit the maximum torque, and made long enough to give lateral flexibility in order to take up misalignment. Quill shaft couplings do not permit any relative axial movement between the coupled machines.

Function

Quill shafts are designed to transmit torque between rotating components, such as a generator to an engine, or a clutch to a gearbox.

Construction

They typically consist of a solid, thin shaft with splines or teeth on both ends, allowing them to be connected to other shafts or gears.

Applications

• Engine Components: Used to connect various engine components, including generators, compressors, and other accessories.
• Transmission: Used in some transmissions to connect the clutch to the gearbox.
• Machine Tools: Used in machine tools, such as drill presses, where the quill shaft supports the drill chuck and allows for vertical movement.
• Motors: Used in synchronous motors to reduce torsional stresses during startup.
• Power Take-Off (PTO): Used in PTOs to transfer power from a truck's gearbox to other units.

Advantages

• Flexibility: Quill shafts can provide some flexibility, allowing for slight misalignment between connected components.
• Torsional Isolation: They can help isolate pulsating loads, like those from diesel engines, from the gearbox and compressor.

References

• ScienceDirect