Locking Assembly

A locking assembly is a keyless mechanical device that creates a strong, friction-based connection between a shaft and a hub (like gears, pulleys, or flywheels) by using conical rings that expand to generate a powerful, backlash-free compression fit, allowing reliable torque transmission and preventing stress concentration issues common with keyways. 

How It Works

Components: It typically consists of a hollow shaft, a hub, and one or two pressure rings (often double-tapered).

Installation: The assembly is placed between the shaft and the hub.

Clamping: Screws are tightened, pulling the conical rings together, which forces them to expand radially.

Friction Lock: This radial expansion creates a uniform 360-degree clamping force, generating a strong frictional fit (shrink fit) between the shaft and the hub. 

Key Advantages

No Keyways: Eliminates stress points and wear associated with traditional keyways, preventing fretting and corrosion.

High Torque Capacity: Can transmit higher torques and bending moments than keyed connections, often allowing for smaller, thinner shafts.

Precision: Offers highly concentric and precise positioning of components.

Versatility: Available in self-centering or non-self-centering types, with or without axial displacement. 

Common Applications

Used for mounting components like:

Gears, sprockets, chain wheels

Pulleys, belt drums

Brake discs, flywheels, cams, and levers 

In essence, it's a superior, keyless alternative for robust shaft-hub connections, ideal for demanding industrial applications.