Axel Diameter?

[mrspam]

How does one go about calculating what the best diameter axel would be for a givin application? An axel too small with bend and de-shape but an axel to big will have too much rotational inertia?

Thanks,
Brendan

 

[MintJulep]

What else do you want to know? You've listed some of the factors to consider. Make a decision based on engineering judgement.

 

[JStephen]

I think in most cases, the rotational inertia would not be a major factor.

You might also consider vibration of the shaft, whirring motion, fatigue, how it is to be attached, cost and drag of bearings, etc.

 

[rmw]

YOu would also want to give careful consideration to any shock loading the axle would expect to see.

rmw

 

[Warpspeed]

And unsupported length.

 

[unclesyd]

If you think inertia is going to be problem you should include tubular shafts in your quest.

 

[Philrock]

The ASME and Westinghouse shaft codes are often used to determine what diameter is required to keep stresses below a specified level, with a particular factor of safety. These codes can be found in many engineering text books. In some applications, torsional and bending deflections will also be an important consideration.