handwheel

A handwheel is a wheel connected to a shaft that is rotated manually to produce linear or angular movement of a machine component. It is a common control on machine tools, valves, jacks, stage and laboratory equipment, and many industrial devices. By turning the wheel, an operator moves a carriage, adjusts a table, or actuates a valve.

Handwheels are typically made of cast iron, steel, or aluminum, and range in size from small wheels to large ones several inches in diameter. They may be solid or have spokes to reduce weight and allow clearance for fingers and for visibility of the hub. The wheel mounts to a shaft by a hub with a set screw, a key and hub, or a threaded collar, ensuring the wheel translates rotation to the connected mechanism. Some designs include a handle or a flatted section to improve grip. Precision variants use a micrometer dial or digital readout attached to the same shaft to provide incremental positioning.

In machine tools, a handwheel provides coarse or fine movement of feeds, slides, or the quill. In valves and dampers, it directly opens or closes the passage. In laboratory and stage equipment, handwheels enable smooth, repeatable positioning. The friction and backlash of the driven mechanism influence the feel and accuracy of a handwheel.

Safety and maintenance: Inspect mounting hardware for wear, keep the surface free of debris, and avoid applying excessive torque. Be mindful of pinch points when operating near rotating or translating parts.