SKF
Bushings and Hubs
SKF bushings and hubs are the mechanical interface between a mounted power transmission component (pulley, sprocket, coupling, or brake drum) and the shaft. The range centres on the taper bushing system, a split, flanged bushing that fits into a tapered component bore and is locked onto the shaft by tightening two or three socket-head screws. As the screws are torqued, the bushing is drawn into the hub, simultaneously clamping the shaft and expanding in the component bore to create a secure, concentric, vibration-resistant mounting that can transmit high torque. QD (Quick Disconnect) bushings are also available. Taper bushings eliminate the need for heat, heavy press fits, or keyways to carry the full torque, and they allow easy, repeated removal without shaft damage. SKF supplies taper bushings in metric and imperial sizes to suit all common shaft diameters and component bore configurations. They are an essential element in reliable, maintainable power transmission design.
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Trusted by Industry Leaders
Concentric, Wobble-Free Mounting
Precision taper provides excellent radial runout control.
High Torque Capacity
Frictional clamping force transmits full component rated torque.
Easy Installation and Removal
Two or three screws; no pullers, no hammering, no heating.
Fits Multiple Shaft Sizes
One bushing covers a small shaft diameter range, reducing inventory.
Eliminates Keyway Fretting
Clamp fit prevents the micro-motion that causes keyway damage.
Steel and Stainless Steel
For general industrial and corrosive environments.
Installing a Taper Bushing Correctly
Clean the shaft and bushing bore. Slide the bushing into the component, align the half-moon holes, and loosely insert the screws. Position the assembly on the shaft, then tighten the screws alternately and progressively to the specified torque. The even draw-up ensures the bushing seats squarely, providing maximum grip and minimum runout. SKF provides torque tables for each bushing size.
Why Taper Bushings Replace Keyseated Fits in Modern Drives
Keyseated shafts are subject to fretting corrosion and wear under reversing or vibratory loads, eventually causing the key to fail. A taper bushing’s full-circumference clamp eliminates this micro-motion, protecting the shaft and enabling repeated component changes without shaft damage. In high-vibration crusher drives, this translates to significantly longer shaft and component life.