Top 17 Keensert® Questions: Expert Answers to Common Questions (Part 1)
Posted: March 27, 2025 Filed under: Inch and Mil-Spec Keensert, keensert, Keenserts Frequently Asked Questions, Metric Keensert | Tags: Expert Answers to Keenserts Frequently Asked Questions, Keensert FAQs, Keensert Guide, Keensert Inserts, Keensert Installation Tools, Keensert Supplier, Key-Locking Inserts, supply chain Leave a comment
Navigating the world of key-locking inserts—Keenserts®—doesn’t have to be complicated. Our comprehensive guide with 17 frequently asked questions cuts through the confusion, addressing the top issues related to selecting, shopping for and installing key locking inserts. In this first installment of our 3 part series, we’ll cover the first 7 questions which focus on the fundamentals, including the differences between self-locking and standard inserts, installation essentials, and common questions when drilling and tapping the holes in the parent material.
1 – What is the difference between a key locking and a self-locking Keensert®?
A key locking threaded insert, also known by its trademarked name Keensert®, is a solid bushing style insert with both internal and external threads. It has wedges or “keys” on one end that lock it into place after installation, preventing loosening due to vibration. All Keenserts® are key-locking inserts. Key-locking inserts come in self-locking and non-self-locking styles (sometimes referred to as free-running). Self-locking style key-locking inserts have a distorted internal thread that creates a mechanical lock, making them some of the strongest inserts available. This mechanical self-locking feature is stronger than adhesive-based chemical thread-lockers.
2 – What tools do I need to install a key-locking insert?
To properly install a key-locking insert, AKA Keensert®, you will need the following tools:
- Drill: to make a hole in the parent material.
- Tap: To tap threads that will accept the external thread of the insert.
- Keensert® Installation Tool & Hammer: to drive the keys into the parent material.
Depending upon your application, you may also require a countersink tool and a broaching tool. Note: If you have a few hundred inserts to install, the manual process detailed above works fine. However, if you are installing these Keenserts® by the thousands, then you will want to use a pneumatic power tool to speed up the processes.
3 – How do I install key-locking Inserts?
To manually install a key-locking insert it requires a 4-step process:
- Drill a hole and countersink the parent material. Note: The drill size is specific to the Keensert® you are installing.
- Tap threads into the parent material according to the insert’s external thread, pitch and tolerance.
- Manually screw the key-locking insert into the tapped hole.
- Place the installation tool on top of the insert. Strike with a hammer to drive down the locking keys creating a mechanical lock.
4 – What is a broaching tool and when will I need one?
A broaching tool is an extra installation tool that is used in hard material. Parent materials harder than RC30, such as A286, A4140 or anodized aluminum may require the tapped holes be broached prior to installing the key-locking insert. The broaching tool has blades that create slots so the keys can be driven into the parent material.
5 – Where do I find the drill size to install a key-locking insert?
The drill size for a key-locking insert is typically found in the product specifications or installation guide provided by the manufacturer.
Note: The outer diameter of Keenserts® are slightly larger than the standard drill hole to ensure a tight fit and sufficient thread engagement in the base material, compensating for tapped hole variations.
6 – Where do I find the tap size to install a key-locking insert?
The tap size for a key-locking insert is typically found in the product specifications or installation guide provided by the manufacturer. The tap will typically match the size, pitch and tolerance of the insert’s external diameter and thread.
7 – How do I find the correct tool to install my Keensert®?
The correct installation tool is usually specified by the Keensert® manufacturer and can be found in the product’s documentation or on the manufacturer’s website. Installation tools are specific to the external and internal diameter of each unique insert part number. Note: Some tools work for multiple sizes.
Stay tuned for the next installment in this series, where we’ll dive into frequently asked questions about Keensert® measurement differences, material selection options, and more!
In the meantime, if you have any questions, feel free to Connect with our team or send us a request for quote and our team of sourcing experts will help you find what you need. “Finding the right screw for you” is our tag line after all!
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