Face Spline joint technology for wheel hubs without journals

GKN Automotive offers with his Face Spline joint technology an even lighter and more powerful variant for current and future drive solutions in Automobile. Usually, the joint of a side shaft is connected to the wheel hub connected. The Face Spline technology replaces the tenon with one Toothing on the face of the joint. 

The name Face Spline is derived from this technology. The Front teeth of the joint and wheel hub interlock and are centered by the cone of the face spline joint. A fastening screw secures the components and connects them in a force-fitting manner.

Features and benefits of the face spline design

The Face Spline concept is patented. More and more automakers are using the technology Emissions targets and downsizing to implement. They also use it for high-torque turbo drives and electric motors as well as the resulting function-optimized component designs.

Components for the hydrogen drive in the mass market

The component is less complex than before. This will make the construction more compact and lighter. The front toothing provides a wider area than the long journal solution. This allows higher torques to be transmitted. Compared to conventional solutions, this is up to 50% more. Initial assembly and maintenance are made easier by the front fixing. A backlash-free connection to the wheel hub is ensured. In addition, a space-saving membrane bellows allows a flexion angle of up to 25 degrees.

Green hydrogen on the advance in Germany

The face spline design is ideal for the Powertrain of the future. The weight savings on the bike also noticeably improve ride comfort, because the unsprung masses are approx. 20% lower. The GKN Automotive ST technology (Sideshaft Twin Ball with S-shaped ball track) reduces the internal frictional resistance in the joint. This has additional positive effects on fuel consumption.

Overall concept wheel hub, joint, shaft

The actual wave offers further potential for increase in efficiency. GKN combines the Face Spline joint with a hollow monoblock shaft. This allows maximum torsional rigidity and stability with minimal weight. Consumption and driving comfort benefit from the double effect. The overall Face Spline joint - Monoblock hollow shaft system is so convincing that leading manufacturers rely exclusively on GKN Automotive technology, especially for their all-wheel drive models.

Moving the components from the bonnet to the wheel

“The increasing use of our face spline and monoblock technologies in the original equipment business promises increasing sales potential for the aftermarket. As developers, we can now also use our Face Spline program Aftermarket offer ”, commented Frank Hurter, Commercial Director Automotive Aftermarket. "This means that the independent workshop can continue to repair the most modern vehicles and enjoy the efficient, simple and reliable assembly."