CTP Woodruff keys are offered as semi-circle, square or rectangular, to fit many applications. The purpose of the key is to transfer the torque load from a shaft to the working gear. The key’s main function is as a fail-safe or sacrificial device to ensure that there is no damage to the gears in the event that the gears become jammed; the key will break or shear before damage to the gears occur.
This type of key was developed by W.N. Woodruff of who was awarded the John Scott Medal by the Franklin Institute for his invention in 1888.