Bronze keys- which alloy ?

beckerkumm · Nov 23, 2020

I need to make two keys for a clutch assembly. The keys engage the plates of a wet clutch that run in DTE light oil for a lathe. What type of bronze would work best? I need to turn and machine although I could finish off with a surface grinder if that is possible. Here are pictures. The parts are small, basically 1" x 1" x 5/16" diameter.

. If more info is needed, let me know. thanks, Dave

Milland · Nov 23, 2020

Look at either of these alloys:

McMaster-Carr

McMaster-Carr

I'd probably go with the first due to higher mechanical strength.

Limy Sami · Nov 23, 2020

Nickel Aluminium Bronze would be my choice nickel aluminium bronze - Google Search

If you'd like a good (for me) method of making those keys - please ask.

Phil in Montana · Nov 23, 2020

2nd... Aluminium Bronze...Phil

beckerkumm · Nov 23, 2020

Is the reason for Bronze that it is softer than the steel friction plates it is engaging? Are there soft steel alternatives? Dave

Milland · Nov 23, 2020

You could try a leaded steel like 12L14, with the hope that the lead acts as a lube. But if it winds up damaging the mating collar it would be false economy.

4GSR · Nov 23, 2020

You sure the friction plate is steel? Could be cast iron or ductile iron.

Regardless, I think you would want the material to be much harder than the dog is. Not rock hard but something at least 80 on the Rockwell B scale IMO.

beckerkumm · Nov 23, 2020

I'm not going to reinvent the wheel, just wondering why bronze. I think I will need to take the whole clutch system apart as one of the needle bearings was laying in the bottom of the pan.

. Dave

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Bronze keys- which alloy ?

beckerkumm

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Milland

Diamond

Limy Sami

Diamond

Phil in Montana

Stainless

beckerkumm

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Milland

Diamond

4GSR

Diamond

beckerkumm

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