ISO 21940-32:2012 specifies one convention for balancing the individual components (shaft and fitments) of a keyed rotor assembly. This provides compatibility of all balanced components so that when they have been assembled the overall balance tolerance and/or vibration limit for the rotor assembly is met.

ISO 21940-32:2012 specifies that half-keys be used when balancing the individual components of a keyed rotor assembly. It also specifies a marking of the components balanced in accordance with the key convention used.

ISO 21940-32:2012 applies to rotors balanced in a balancing machine, in their own bearings or in situ. The key convention can also be applied when measuring the residual unbalance and/or vibration of rotors with keyways, but to which fitments have not yet been assembled.

In addition to applying to keys of constant rectangular or square cross-section mounted parallel to the shaft centreline, ISO 21940-32:2012 also applies to keys mounted on tapered shaft surfaces, to woodruff, gibhead, dowel and other special keys. The principle of the half-key convention is applied as is appropriate to the particular shape and location of the special key.