What is the purpose of using a keyway in mechanical components?

The correct choice is based on the primary function of a keyway in mechanical assemblies. A keyway is designed to create a specific path in which a key can be inserted to securely connect two components, such as a shaft and a hub. This connection prevents relative motion between these parts by ensuring that they rotate together as a single unit.

The key itself fits into the keyway on both elements, thereby locking them together and preventing any slippage during operation. This is crucial in applications where precise alignment and strength are needed, such as in gears, pulleys, and other rotating machinery, thereby ensuring efficient power transmission without loss of performance.

While there might be considerations such as smooth motion and lubrication that come into play in overall machinery design, the fundamental role of a keyway is to establish rigid coupling that effectively prevents any unwanted relative movement. This is essential for the reliability and integrity of mechanical systems.