Võllidel

Võllidel is an Estonian linguistic form related to võll, the word for a shaft in mechanical engineering. Võllidel is the adessive plural form, typically translated as “on the shafts” or “with the shafts” in technical texts. The root võll refers to a rotating cylindrical component used to transmit torque in machinery.

In mechanical engineering, a shaft is a rotating member that transmits power and motion between components such as gears, pulleys, bearings, and couplings. Shafts must resist torsional loads, bending moments, and fatigue while maintaining alignment and balance within the machine. They are designed to fit precisely with other parts and to operate under varying speeds and loads.

Common shaft types include solid shafts, hollow shafts, splined shafts, and keyed shafts. Solid shafts are straightforward and economical; hollow shafts reduce weight and can improve stiffness-to-weight ratios. Splined shafts have internal ridges that mate with corresponding grooves for high-torque transmission without keys, while keyed shafts use a key to secure components and prevent relative rotation.

Materials and manufacturing practices for shafts typically involve carbon or alloy steels, chosen for strength and machinability. Heat treatment such as quenching and tempering is often applied to achieve the desired hardness and toughness. Finishes may include turning, grinding, or honing; surface treatments like nitriding can enhance wear resistance. Quality control relies on tight tolerances and proper fits with mating parts, along with regular inspection for wear, cracks, and misalignment.

Applications range from automotive drivetrains to industrial machinery and aerospace systems, where reliable shaft performance is essential for efficient power transmission and longevity.