Taper bushings are high-precision mechanical connection components widely used in power transmission systems. They are mainly applied to connect pulleys, sprockets, gears, and other transmission parts to shafts, enabling accurate and adjustable shaft–hub connections.

However, many users are not fully familiar with the correct installation methods of taper bushings. Today, this article will guide you through the proper installation procedures of several common types of taper bushings.

**01 BTL Taper Bushing**

The BTL taper bushing (also known as TB taper bushing) is a European-standard taper bushing. Before installation, it is important to understand its structure.

As shown in the figure above, there are two types of holes distributed on the outer surface of the BTL taper bushing:

Plain holes (without threads): installation holes

Threaded holes: removal holes

Installation

During installation, align the installation holes of the taper bushing with the threaded holes on the hub of the mating component. Then alternately tighten the bolts to secure the bushing in place and complete the installation.

Removal

For removal, first loosen and remove the bolts. Then screw the removed bolts into the removal holes, which will force the taper bushing out of the hub.

**02 QTL Taper Bushing**

The QTL taper bushing (also known as QD taper bushing) is an American-standard taper bushing. It features an integral flange design with alternating through holes and threaded holes.

QTL taper bushings can be installed in two different orientations: forward installation and reverse installation. The bolt positions vary depending on the installation direction.

Forward Installation

In forward installation, the flange side of the taper bushing faces the machine or drive unit.

Align the threaded holes of the QTL taper bushing with the through holes on the hub. Insert the bolts through the hub and lightly tighten them to position the bushing. Then alternately tighten the bolts to complete the installation.

For removal, loosen and remove the bolts, then screw them into the threaded holes on the hub to push the taper bushing out.

Reverse Installation

In reverse installation, the flange side faces away from the machine or drive unit.

Align the through holes of the QTL taper bushing with the threaded holes on the hub. Insert the bolts through the taper bushing holes and lightly tighten them. Once properly positioned, alternately tighten the bolts to complete the installation.

For removal, loosen the bolts and then screw them into the threaded holes of the taper bushing to release it from the hub.

**03 STL Taper Bushing**

The STL taper bushing (also known as STB taper bushing) is an American-standard taper bushing. It features a split-body design (double split barrel) and a flanged structure with symmetrically arranged installation and removal holes.

Keyway Inspection (Corrected Description)

Before installation, it is necessary to check whether the inner bore of the taper bushing is provided with a keyway.

Note:
The outer taper surface cannot have a keyway.
In most cases, the inner bore of the taper bushing is equipped with a keyway, although some special models may be manufactured without a keyway.

Installation with Inner Bore Keyway

If the inner bore of the taper bushing has a keyway, first insert the matching key into the keyway and lightly secure it. Then place the taper bushing into the hub of the mating component.

Thanks to the key positioning, bolts can then be inserted through the through holes of the taper bushing and alternately tightened to complete the installation.

Installation without Inner Bore Keyway

If the inner bore does not have a keyway, place the STL taper bushing directly into the hub. Align the through holes of the taper bushing with the threaded holes on the hub, then insert the bolts and lightly tighten them.

After reaching the correct position, alternately tighten the bolts to complete the installation.

Conclusion

The above instructions cover the installation methods for BTL, QTL, and STL taper bushings. We hope this article helps you better understand the correct installation procedures and ensures safe, reliable, and efficient operation in your mechanical transmission applications.