Kardántengely

Kardántengely, also known as a driveshaft or propeller shaft, is a mechanical component used to transmit torque and rotation, typically between a gearbox and a differential in a vehicle. It is a critical part of the drivetrain, enabling power to be transferred from the engine to the wheels.

The most common type of kardántengely is the Cardan shaft, named after the Italian mathematician Gerolamo Cardano. This design utilizes one or more universal joints (also known as Cardan joints or U-joints) to allow for changes in angle and distance between the connected components. These joints are crucial for accommodating the movement of the suspension and the chassis.

A typical kardántengely consists of a shaft, often made of steel, with universal joints attached at each end. The shaft itself can be a solid tube or a hollow tube to reduce weight. The universal joints allow for angular misalignment between the input and output shafts, which is essential as the distance and angle between the transmission and the differential can change due to the flexing of the vehicle's suspension.

In some applications, especially with longer driveshafts, a center bearing or support bearing is used to reduce vibration and prevent excessive flexing of the shaft. This bearing is mounted to the vehicle's chassis and supports the driveshaft at an intermediate point. The kardántengely is a robust component designed to withstand significant torsional forces and rotational speeds. Its reliable operation is essential for the smooth and efficient propulsion of a vehicle.