Bushings are small metal components inserted into V belt sheaves to be mounted on the shafts of industrial equipment which then, provide power transmission on a drive.  For these parts to work properly, they need to fit precisely into the drive shaft housing, so it’s important to choose the right size and shape for your machinery. Two of the most common options are taper and QD bushings. Here’s a guide to each so you can make the ideal choice for your manufacturing equipment. 

QD Bushings

Quick-disconnect bushings have an inner and outer flange, with a full split down the side of both. As one is mounted into the other using the provided bolt kit, they squeeze down on a shaft to hold a key in place and to give the sheave a positive lock on the shaft of an electric motor drive. using a star pattern while mounting allows them to be inserted easily and provides strong clamping power. 

Cap screws are then used to secure the outer flange to the sheave. It's very important * do not use Thread Lock when mounting*. This can create over tightening and cause extreme difficulty for removal.  Since these screws are easily accessible from the outside, QD bushings can be quickly installed and removed, making them ideal for applications where bushings need to be mounted and removed frequently. QD bushings from MasterDrive are all  made from Ductile Iron (up to size J). This allows them to be mounted and dismounted many times.  Most other manufacturers' bushings are made from cast iron, which is much less durable than ductile iron and will stretch. This difference alone, makes MasterDrives unique from most other manufacturers of similar components.  Check out their selection at www.MasterDrives.com

Taper Bushings 

Taper bushings feature a single flange that is shaped like a wedge. They are split along the side to allow easy clamping onto a shaft just like QD bushings, and are also attached using screws. Since the sides taper gradually, they are designed to fit snugly around the drive shafts. This makes them ideal for narrow spaces. The wedge shape of these bushings also allows them to be inserted and removed without taking apart the drive shaft. See masterdrives.com for more.

If you’re looking for taper or QD bushings for your applications, contact Industrial Component Sales Inc. With locations in Bemidji, MN, and Hudson and Madison, WI, the company sells a wide array of sheaves and bushings, along with other industrial machinery parts from top manufacturers like, MasterDrives, Bestorq Belts, Maxco Chain and Sprockets® and VanZeeland Manufacturing. Visit the website to see a full selection of manufacturers and products like sheaves and bushings. To speak with a team member about your company’s needs, call (651) 270-0151.