Custom Gearbox Input and Output Shafts
Input shafts, output shafts and pinion shafts transfer motion through different interfaces. Their names are not interchangeable, and a quotation cannot be qualified from the shaft diameter alone.
CNCX Tech reviews build-to-print shaft requests where bearing locations, torque interfaces, tooth forms, material condition and finishing requirements are defined.
Define the Shaft in the Assembly
Identify whether the part connects to a motor, gear, planet carrier, coupling, seal or external load. Provide the bearing and sealing interfaces, load point, overhung distance and mating component information needed to interpret the drawing.
Geometries Worth Reviewing
- Stepped input or output shafts beginning from bar stock
- Bearing and seal seats, shoulders, threads and retaining-ring grooves
- Two-end features and small driven-tool features
- Small pinion-shaft bodies where the tooth-making route is separately defined
Features That Change the Route
- Large, hardened or high-accuracy tooth forms requiring dedicated gear processes
- Splines, worms, deep keyways or large hollow sections
- Heat treatment followed by final cylindrical, internal or gear grinding
- Complete gearhead assemblies requiring backlash, noise, efficiency or life testing
RFQ Requirements
- Controlled part drawing plus assembly context
- All bearing, seal, coupling and gear fits with datums
- Gear or spline standard, geometry, accuracy requirement and process responsibility
- Material, heat treatment, hardness, surface finish and coating
- Torque, speed, shock, reversal, life and operating environment
- Quantity, annual volume and quality documentation
Gearbox system performance is not a single-shaft inspection result. Any requirement for backlash, noise or functional testing must be scoped separately.
See miniature motor shafts, bearing and spacing sleeves, and the RFQ checklist.