A worm shaft is a crucial component in a worm gearbox, which is a type of gearbox that consists of a worm gear (also known as a worm wheel) and a worm screw. The worm shaft is the cylindrical rod upon which the worm screw is mounted. It typically has a helical thread (the worm screw) cut into its surface.

Worm shafts are usually made of materials such as steel, stainless steel, or bronze, depending on the application’s requirements for strength, durability, and resistance to wear. They are precisely machined to ensure smooth operation and efficient power transmission within the gearbox.