käyttöakseli

Käyttöakseli, often translated as drive shaft or propeller shaft, is a mechanical component used to transmit torque and rotation from a power source to another component. In automotive applications, it is a crucial part of the drivetrain, connecting the transmission to the differential. The primary function of a käyttöakseli is to transmit the rotational power of the engine and transmission to the wheels, allowing the vehicle to move.

The design of a käyttöakseli typically involves a hollow or solid tube, often made of steel or aluminum for strength and lightness. It is usually equipped with universal joints (CV joints or U-joints) at each end. These joints are essential for allowing the shaft to flex and accommodate changes in angle and distance that occur as the suspension moves and the vehicle steers. Without these flexible joints, the constant movement of the drivetrain would put excessive stress on the shaft and connected components.

In rear-wheel-drive vehicles, a single, longer käyttöakseli runs from the transmission to the rear differential. In four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicles, there may be multiple käyttöakselit, including front and rear shafts, as well as transfer case shafts, to distribute power to all wheels. The length, diameter, and material of a käyttöakseli are determined by the specific application, considering factors such as the amount of torque it needs to transmit, the operating angles, and the overall vehicle design.