What connections are required to the input and output shafts?
The output shaft of the gearbox is connected to the generator through a coupling. We have no details of this coupling, but can assume that it will transmit its torque to the gearbox output shaft by means of a keyway. The length of the output shaft protruding beyond the gearbox is not given, but should be sufficient to allow for a keyway of adequate strength. There are no significant lateral forces on the coupling. The input shaft to the gearbox is in fact the main rotor shaft of the turbine – that is, there is no coupling between rotor shaft and gearbox, and the turbine hub bolts directly to a flange on the end of the gearbox input shaft. The gearbox input shaft must therefore withstand both the torque and the bending moments caused by the rotor. Lengths and bearing locations for the input shaft may be scaled from the sketch provided.
