Attaching a wheel to a metal rod (axle)

metal

I have a wheel (1/2 inch diameter) and a metal rod (1/2 inch diameter) [axle]. Currently, the wheel on the axle results in the wheel free-spinning. How could I attach the wheel to the axle?

(The wheel is mainly plastic)

Best Answer

In general to transfer torque through an axle to a larger round thing there are three main ways:

Light loads. (fractional horsepower) A flat space is ground on the axle. A set screw in the hub of the round thing (usually a pulley) keeps the round thing from spinning. I've run into this a lot on trailer furnace blowers.

Medium loads: (1 to small number of HP) A keyway is cut into the end of the drive shaft and in the hub of the round thing. Typically about 3/16 wide by half that deep. The two are lined up, and a chunk of key stock slid in. A set screw keeps the key stock from leaving. Table saws, stationary power equipment are good examples.

High loads: (Tens of HP) You have a hub with bolt holes. The round thing is bolted to the hub. (Car wheels are a good example)

As is mentioned in the comments: This is not a good choice for a driven wheel. It's designed to have 60 pounds on a line through the centre of the axel. If you drive it, there are twisting forces on the ribs. I don't think you'd have to drive it hard for the wheel to collapse on the first bump.

You may find it educational to look at self propelled lawnmowers and see how they are set up.