“Heli-coils®” vs. “Keenserts®”: 3 differences you must know-Part 2 of 2
Posted: September 21, 2023 Filed under: Brand equivalents, Functional Equivalent, Helical, helical wire inserts, keensert, key-locking inserts, Wire Inserts | Tags: heli-coil, helical wire insert, helical wire threaded insert, helicoil, inserts for manufacturers, keensert, key-locking insert, key-locking threaded insert, mil-spec heli-coils, mil-spec keenserts, mil-spec threaded inserts, threaded bushing, threaded fastener, threaded insert, Threaded inserts for manufacturers Leave a comment
Welcome back to the second part of, “Heli-coils®” vs. “Keenserts®”: 3 differences you must know. As a refresher, both Helical Wire Inserts (AKA Heli-coils®) & Key-locking Inserts (AKA Keenserts®) are popular threaded inserts that are commonly used in precision manufacturing, transportation, and aerospace applications. Their uses overlap range from restoring/repairing stripped threaded holes, strengthening threaded holes in metals and other soft materials, providing high resistance to torque-out and pull-out, & to place threaded holes on materials too thin to accept them. The three main differences between Wire Inserts and Key-Locking Inserts lie in their strength, ease of installation & price. Today we will continue on from where we left of on our previous blog, and discuss about OEM brands, Mil-spec options, and how to order them!
Threaded Inserts’ Brands & Equivalents
A Helical Wire Insert, commonly known as “threaded wire insert,” is essentially a coil-wire made of stainless steel or other materials which, when installed, provide a new threaded hole surface. One of the most recognized brands for helical inserts is “Heli-Coil®,” but there are several others as well, including E-Z Lok, Bollhoff, Recoil, KATO, Perma-Coil, V-Coil and Time-Sert. Below is a list of some of the most well known brands for this category:
- Heli-Coil®: Part of the Stanley Engineered Fastening brand, Heli-coil’s name is nearly synonymous with threaded wire inserts, and Heli-coil®is a registered trademark of Emhart® Teknologies, Inc.
- Recoil®: Part of Howmet’s (previously Arconic, formerly Alcoa Fastening Systems) wire thread insert offering. Recoil offers helical wire inserts in bulk, replacement packets, kits and associated tools, taps and drill bits.
- E-Z Lok®: Offering Wire Inserts under the E-Z Coil™ Helical Coil Insert brand, specializing in industrial and automotive .
- KATO®: The Original Inventor & Manufacturer of the Bi-Directional Tangless Insert.
A Key-locking Threaded Insert, commonly known by the popular brand name “Keensert® and Keysert®,” is a solid bushing style threaded insert with unique external keys that get hammered into grooves through the threads—permanently locking the insert in place. Key-locking inserts are specifically designed for high-stress applications where strong, permanent threads are essential. Key-locking inserts offer exceptional resistance to vibration, torque-out and pull-out, making them suitable for critical components and assemblies that require a secure, immovable joint, or in scenarios where frequent assembly and disassembly might weaken the primary thread strength of the base material. While “Keensert®” is a trademarked name, tens of manufacturers and brands offer similar products in the solid threaded insert category including Acme, Camloc, Chrislynn, Clarendon, Fairchild, Loksert, Kaynar, Microdot and Tridair brands. Here is a list of the most popular brands:
- Keensert®: is a registered trademark of Huck Patents, Inc. The trademark name is currently owned by the company that started it all, Howmet (formerly Arconic & Alcoa Fastening Systems).
- Recoil®: The trademarked Keysert name belongs to Recoil, which is also part of the current Howmet family (formerly Arconic & Alcoa Fastening Systems).
- Carr-Lane: Specializing in Tooling Components, Carr-Lane offers a large selection of Inch and Metric Key-locking inserts in steel and stainless steel.
- Fairchild Fasteners®: Purchased by Arconic in 2002, Many original Fairchild part numbers are still produced and commonly used in the aerospace industry.
- Acme – USA based manufacturers of inch, metric, Industrial Style and Mil-Spec key-locking inserts in a variety of materials and finishes.
Note: Various manufacturers and brands have their own designs, strengths, materials and applications for which they’re best suited. When choosing a threaded insert, it’s essential to consider factors like the material you’re working with, the stresses the insert will be under, and the expected lifecycle of the product. Industrial, automotive and aerospace industries each have their own requirements, which may include DFAR, First Article or other certifications. If you need assistance finding out what type of threaded insert is best suited for the project you’re working on, read part one of this blog, or reach out to us with your questions. MF Supply is an expert and leading supplier of Helical Wire Inserts and Key-locking Threaded Inserts—functional equivalents to top & expensive brands, such as Heli-Coil® & Keensert®.
Mil-Spec Options
Mil-spec Helical Wire Inserts (Heli-Coils®) are crafted to meet military specifications. They carry specific labels signifying their adherence to the rigorous standards established by the U.S. Department of Defense in order to guarantee that the inserts will fulfill the necessary requirements for military applications.
With that having been said, these threaded inserts often show up as free-running or self-locking inserts under their Mil-spec numbers, which can be crossed to commercial equivalents. Some common Mil-spec Helical Wire Inserts’ series include MS122076 through MS124831, MA1565, MA3276, MA3277, MA3278, MA3279, MA3280, MA3281, MA3329, MA3330, MA3331, , MS21208, MS21209, MS33537, NA0276, NAS1130
Mil-Spec key-locking threaded inserts (Keenserts®) adhere to distinct mil-spec (military specification) series. Options for these inserts include Miniature, Thinwall & Lightweight, Heavy Duty, Extra Heavy Duty, Keylocking Inserts in Stainless Steel, A286, and 4140 Alloy materials. Here are several prevalent mil-spec series associated with them: MS51830, MS51831, MS51832, NAS1394, NAS1395, NA0146, NA0147, NA0148, NA0149, NA0150, NA0151. The mil-spec parts will often have a commercial equivalent that is also known under the original Fairchild nomenclature, including the KN, KNC, KNH, KNL & KNCL Series.
Authentic Mil-spec parts will be available with documentation that confirm their compliance to the specification. Examples of certified paperwork might include a Certificate of Conformance, material traceability, DFAR statement, and chemical and/or physical tests reports.
How to Order
Now you know the differences between Helical / Heli-coils® and Key-locking / Keensert® / Keyserts®, the brands available, and the mil-spec series options.
To find the exact insert you are seeking on our website, there are currently four ways to proceed:
1. You can visit the Keenserts®, Threaded Inserts & Helical Wire Inserts category section of our website, and choose between Keenserts® for Manufacturers or Helical Wire Inserts. Once you select the desired category of products, you can then narrow down your search by selecting between metric or inch & mil-spec sizes, materials, etc.
2. You can also visit our website and enter the product standard, product number or keyword (e.g., MS51830, MS51830-101, “Keenserts,” “Helical Inserts,” etc.) in our search bar, and click the “Search” button. Once the list of available products are listed, you may use our product filters to search for the desired size, material, etc.
3. Alternatively, you could also use our newly added Product Finder tool! Select the desired Item Type, Subtype, Material, etc. And when you’re done selecting, simply click on the “Search” button, and the product finder will display a list of available products for you.
4. Lastly, you could also reach out to us or Request a Quote. Our MF Supply team of sourcing experts are here to assist you and help you find the right product(s).
Once you find the insert you need, you can request a quote or buy online.
Key-locking Inserts (Keenserts®) & Helical Wire Inserts (Heli-Coils®) at MF Supply
MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB woman owned business, and leading supplier of Keenserts® & Helical Wire Inserts including major OEM brands and brand equivalents, in imperial, metric and mil-spec sizes and materials.
We stock a huge inventory including Miniature, Thinwall, Lightweight, Heavy Duty, Extra Heavy Duty, Locking, Non-Locking, Solid and Floating style Keenserts® in a variety of sizes and materials. Our mil-spec and certified insert products are DFAR compliant with COC and full certifications available upon request.
We Invite You To Request a Quote, Download a Guide or a Line Card Today!
Do you still have questions or would like to speak with a representative to request a quote? Reach out to us, and our MF Supply team of sourcing experts will help you find what you’re looking for. “Finding the right screw for you” is our tag line after all!
Book a one-on-one consultation with our President, Robin, to discuss how MF Supply can help you solve your Industrial Sourcing, Fastener, and Safety concerns.
Six Reasons To Buy From MF Supply
- Full eCommerce Enabled Website With Technical Manual Available 24/7 – Visit our website and Create a New Account, track online orders, browse our product catalog, check technical specs, subscribe to our blog, or buy online. We are adding items and improving functionality daily!
- Same Day Shipping From The USA – Our hardware products are in stock and ship to you directly from our USA based distribution centers.
- Functional Equivalents To Expensive Brand Names- We stock and source alternatives to brand name fasteners, reducing long lead times and saving you money.
- Creatively Solve Problems – We are sourcing experts, offer competitive pricing and specialize in finding hard to find parts and reducing long deliveries.
- One-Stop Shopping On Certified Hardware – We stock and source a full line of fasteners including Mil-Spec, DFARS compliant and other industrial products.
- WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business – To meet your diversity & set-aside needs.
MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified supply chain partner to business, industry and government. We are sourcing experts and stocking distributors of Hardware, Precision & Mil-Spec Fasteners and Safety supplies. For more than 50 years, we have been supplying manufacturers in the electronics, industrial, commercial, aerospace and military markets with the full range of fastener products and services. Our Cage Code is 58QG4 and our registered name is RL Supply Inc dba MF Supply.
“Heli-coils®” vs. “Keenserts®”: 3 differences you must know-Part 1 of 2 (Refreshed for 2023)
Posted: September 7, 2023 Filed under: Brand equivalents, Helical, helical wire inserts, keensert, key-locking inserts, Wire Inserts | Tags: heli-coil, helical wire insert, keensert, key-locking insert, threaded bushing, threaded fastener, threaded insert 1 CommentToday we will re-introduce you to our blog, “Heli-coils®” vs. “Keenserts®”: 3 differences you must know-Part 1 of 2, published back on 2020. We will compare these two fastener products that are used to repair damaged threads & threaded holes, or to strengthen/reinforce a weaker parent material like aluminum. Both Helical Wire Inserts & Key-locking Inserts are commonly used in precision manufacturing, transportation and aerospace applications. Their versatility, however, ensures their presence in nearly every industry that utilizes threaded fasteners.
What are the main uses of Threaded inserts?
Both “Heli-coil®” or Helical wire inserts and “Keensert®” or Key-locking inserts fall under the “Threaded Insert” category of fasteners.
Threaded insert, also known as a threaded bushing, is an insert that has internal threads, and is fastened into an object to add or reinforce a threaded hole. Threaded inserts may be used to repair a stripped threaded hole, provide a durable threaded hole in a soft material, place a thread on a material too thin to accept it, mold or cast threads into a work piece thereby eliminating a machining operation, or simplify changeover from unified to metric threads or vice versa. Although Helical Wire inserts and Key-locking externally threaded inserts are used in similar ways, there are 3 main distinctions that we detail below. But first, let’s take a closer look at each of these fasteners:
What is a Helical Insert Wire Insert? (aka Heli-coil®)
Helical wire inserts are precision-formed continuous wire coils that provide permanent, wear-resistant threads which exceed the strength of the parent material. Often underestimated, the popular misconception is that Helical wire inserts are intended solely for thread repair, when, in fact, they have other significant uses. Not to be confused with other types of threaded inserts or rivnuts, Helical wire inserts resemble springs and are sometimes referred to as “Screw Thread Inserts (STI)” ,“Helicals” or by the popular brand “Heli-Coil®” which is a registered trademark of Emhart® Teknologies, Inc.
Three typical applications for using Helical wire inserts are:
- to repair damaged threads in parts that would otherwise have to be scrapped
- to strengthen threads against failures due to stripping, seizing or corrosion
- to convert threads between inch and metric sizes
What is a Key-locking insert? (aka Keensert® or Keysert®)
The Key-locking threaded insert is a solid bushing style insert that is threaded on both the inside and the outside and has wedges or “keys” attached to the top of the insert. These externally threaded inserts are used to distribute loads and repair or strengthen threads against failures due to stripping, seizing or corrosion. Key-locking inserts are commonly used in high torque and high temperature situations, and in applications where fasteners may be repeatedly removed and reassembled. Key-locking inserts are often referred to as Keenserts® and Keyserts®, which are registered trademarks for the most popular brand names for this part. (Keensert® is a registered trademark of Huck Patents, Inc. & Keysert® is a registered trademark of Alcoa Fastening Systems).
Typical applications are transmission housings, electronic equipment and suspension units. Key-locking inserts are commonly found in aerospace assemblies.
How do they work?
Helical wire inserts work because the diamond shaped helically formed wire coil screws into a threaded hole to form a mating internal thread for a screw or stud.
Key-locking inserts are threaded into a pre-tapped hole, and then the keys are hammered into grooves through the threads, permanently locking the insert in place. Their “keys”, which are driven down into the tapped threads, provide a mechanical lock against rotation, especially when the mating stud or bolt will be removed frequently.
What materials, sizes and styles are available?
Key-locking Inserts/ Keenserts®
Key-locking inserts come in four main styles: Miniature, Thin Wall, Heavy Duty Wall (general purpose) and Extra Heavy Duty.
- Miniature Key-locking inserts are used in electronic and aerospace applications where size and strength are critical. These inserts may be installed in sheet material as thin as 1/16″.
- Thinwall inserts have smaller external threads than standard heavy-duty inserts and are ideal for tight spaces where less pull-out strength is acceptable.
- Heavy Duty inserts have a thick, heavy-duty thread wall, suitable for most applications.
- Extra-heavy duty inserts are used in oversized and overly worn holes.
Key-locking inserts can be internally self-locking or non-locking (the standard is non-locking and is sufficient for the most common applications).
Inserts with the internal self-locking feature are designed to securely lock a bolt when it is entered into the insert only a few turns. Even after repeated installations and removals of the bolt, the lock maintains sufficient locking torque to prevent the bolt from vibrating out.
Common Materials available include Carbon steel, Stainless Steel, Alloy 4140 and A286. Nitronic and other materials may be available with a lead time.
Internal Diameters available: American/Inch #2-56 to 1 ½-6 ” and Metric M2 to M24
Helical wire inserts / Heli-Coils®
Helical wire inserts come in 2 main styles: tanged and tangless (currently, MF Supply specializes in the tanged style).
The original and widely used tang style has a prong at one end to facilitate installation. The newer tangless style has no prongs to break off, retrieve, or lose. Tangless inserts are commonly used in electronic applications where loose tangs are might cause damage.
Helical wire inserts can be free-running or self-locking.
Free running is the most common style used for thread repair. The “free” diameter of the insert is larger than the installed diameter and this configuration generates balanced pressure distribution between the coils and threads.
Self-locking style inserts are recommended for applications that require constant torque, or are subject to stress or vibration. The locking style features a crimped turn that acts as a locking mechanism that grips the bolt or screw to prevent loosening from vibration, eliminating the need for lock wiring, lock-nuts, lockwashers, pellets/patches or other thread locking devices.
Common Materials available include Stainless Steel, Phosphorous Bronze, Inconel X-750 and Nitronic 60 and 90.
Internal Diameters available: American/Inch #2-56 to 1 ½-6” and and Metric M2 to M24. Standard inserts lengths measure from 1x to 3x the diameter. Note: larger sizes may be available by special order.
Why use a Key-locking insert vs. a Helical wire insert?
There are three main differences between Key-locking inserts and Helical wire inserts:
1) Strength: Key-locking inserts are stronger than Helical wire inserts
2) Ease of installation: Key-locking inserts are easier to install than Helical wire inserts
3) Price: Key-locking inserts are more expensive than Helical wire inserts!
So here is some direction on how to select the correct threaded insert for your application: In heavy wear, high vibration and high heat situations where saving space is not a concern and hole depth is limited, Key-locking inserts are the best bet.
When reducing costs and minimizing space are priorities, Helical wire inserts are the way to go. They are particularly useful for creating permanent strong threads in softer materials such as aluminum, titanium and magnesium alloys, and are best suited to lower heat and lower torque environments.
Stay tuned for our next blog, where we discuss, brands and mil-spec options, how to order and installation options!
Key-locking Inserts (Keenserts®) & Helical Wire Inserts at MF Supply
MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB woman owned business, and a trusted supplier of Keenserts & Helical Wire Inserts for manufacturers, government and industry.
We Invite You To Request a Quote, Download a Guide or a Line Card Today!
- Full ecommerce enabled website with technical manual available 24/7
- Same day drop ship from factory for thousands of items.
- Functional Equivalents to expensive brand name fasteners save money and reduce long lead times.
- Creatively solve problems including hard to find parts and long lead times
- WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business.
Do you still have questions or would like to speak with a representative to request a quote? Reach out to us, and our MF Supply team of sourcing experts will help you find what you’re looking for. “Finding the right screw for you” is our tag line after all!
Book a one-on-one consultation with our President, Robin, to discuss how MF Supply can help you solve your Industrial Sourcing, Fastener, and Safety concerns.
Six Reasons To Buy From MF Supply
- Full eCommerce Enabled Website With Technical Manual Available 24/7 – Visit our website and Create a New Account, track online orders, browse our product catalog, check technical specs, subscribe to our blog, or buy online. We are adding items and improving functionality daily!
- Same Day Shipping From The USA – Our hardware products are in stock and ship to you directly from our USA based distribution centers.
- Functional Equivalents To Expensive Brand Names- We stock and source alternatives to brand name fasteners, reducing long lead times and saving you money.
- Creatively Solve Problems – We are sourcing experts, offer competitive pricing and specialize in finding hard to find parts and reducing long deliveries.
- One-Stop Shopping On Certified Hardware – We stock and source a full line of fasteners including Mil-Spec, DFARS compliant and other industrial products.
- WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business – To meet your diversity & set-aside needs.
MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified supply chain partner to business, industry and government. We are sourcing experts and stocking distributors of Hardware, Precision & Mil-Spec Fasteners and Safety supplies. For more than 50 years, we have been supplying manufacturers in the electronics, industrial, commercial, aerospace and military markets with the full range of fastener products and services. Our Cage Code is 58QG4 and our registered name is RL Supply Inc dba MF Supply.
Check out MF Supply’s 2023 Keensert® Cross Reference Tables!
Posted: February 21, 2023 Filed under: Alloy Keenserts, Inch and Mil-Spec Keensert, keensert, Metric Keensert, Stainless Steel Keenserts | Tags: Hardware, Keenserts, manufacturing Leave a comment
Keensert® Equivalent Cross Reference: Find OEM brands, Mil-spec & Functional Equivalents
Although the name Keensert® is often used to describe what is generically called a Key-locking insert (like Band-Aid® or Kleenex®), Keensert® is the registered trademark of Huck Patents (its close cousin, the Keysert® is a registered trademark of Alcoa Fastening Systems). Using functional equivalents, including Mil-Spec, generics and other OEM brands’ versions of key-locking inserts, is a practice many manufacturer’s use to save money and shorten lead times.
Checkout our three most popular Keylocking Insert cross reference charts to see if there is a Functional Equivalent to your Keensert® OEM brand, and start saving money and reducing lead times immediately.
Inch & Mil-Spec Keensert®
Miniature, Thinwall & Lightweight, Heavy Duty, Extra Heavy Duty, Keylocking Inserts in Stainless Steel, A286, 4140 Alloy. Includes MS51830, MS51831, MS51832, KN, KNC, KNL & KNCL Series.
Metric Keensert®
4140 Alloy, A286, & Mill-Spec
Miniature, Thinwall & Lightweight, Heavy Duty, Keylocking Inserts in A286 & 4140 Alloy. Includes NA0146, NA0147, NA0148, NA0149, NA0150, NA0151, KN, KNC, KNL & KNCL Series.
Metric Keensert®
Stainless Steel
Miniature, Thinwall & Lightweight, Heavy Duty, Keylocking Inserts in Stainless Steel, KN, KNC, KNL & KNCL Series.
MF Supply is a leading supplier of key-locking inserts including major brands and equivalents to Acme, Alcoa, Camloc, Clarendon, Fairchild, Kaynar, Microdot and Tridair Keenserts® in imperial, metric and mil-spec sizes and materials.
We stock a huge inventory including Miniature, Thinwall, Lightweight, Heavy Duty, Extra Heavy Duty, Locking, Non-Locking, Solid and Floating style Keenserts®. Our products are DFAR compliant with COC and full certifications available upon request.
If you cant find the part number you need feel free to request a quote and our sourcing experts can help you out!
Six Reasons To Buy From MF Supply
- Full eCommerce Enabled Website With Technical Manual Available 24/7 – Visit our website and Create a New Account, track online orders, browse our product catalog, check technical specs, subscribe to our blog, or buy online. We are adding items and improving functionality daily!
- Same Day Shipping From The USA – Our hardware products are in stock and ship to you directly from our USA based distribution centers.
- Functional Equivalents To Expensive Brand Names- We stock and source alternatives to brand name fasteners, reducing long lead times and saving you money.
- Creatively Solve Problems – We are sourcing experts, offer competitive pricing and specialize in finding hard to find parts and reducing long deliveries.
- One-Stop Shopping On Certified Hardware – We stock and source a full line of fasteners including Mil-Spec, DFARS compliant and other industrial products.
- WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business – To meet your diversity & set-aside needs.
To learn more about our products, visit our blog, or email us at sales@mfsupply.com
Book a one-on-one consultation with our President, Robin, to discuss how MF Supply can help you solve your Industrial Sourcing, Fastener, and Safety concerns.
MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified supply chain partner to business, industry and government. We are sourcing experts and stocking distributors of Hardware, Precision & Mil-Spec Fasteners and Safety supplies. For more than 50 years, we have been supplying manufacturers in the electronics, industrial, commercial, aerospace and military markets with the full range of fastener products and services. Our Cage Code is 58QG4 and our registered name is RL Supply Inc dba MF Supply.
| Read More https://conta.cc/3r0B1Q3 |
Get the Job Done with a Pneumatic Power Tool
Posted: February 3, 2023 Filed under: keensert, KEENTOOLPNEUMATIC-RS, key-locking inserts, Mil-Spec, Pneumatic Power Tools | Tags: Hardware, Keenserts, KEENTOOLPNEUMATIC-RS, Key Locking Inserts, Mil-spec fasteners, Pneumatic Power Tools, Power Tool Leave a comment
Now introducing the Rock Solid Hydro-Pneumatic Key-locking Insert Installation Tool!
A single button is all it takes to operate this tool and to get the job done. No need to use a hammer and a drill to drive the key locking insert into place.
Don’t know what a pneumatic power tool is or how to use one? Read on!
What is a pneumatic power tool?
Pneumatic tools are designed to speed up the installation process of key locking inserts—also known as keenserts. They provide you with increased precision and control, improved torqueing, reduced vibration and noise, and more versatility for your projects.
How do I use a pneumatic power tool?
Using a pneumatic power tool is very simple and bound to give you some peace of mind in the process! To use a pneumatic power tool, simply set up or prepare the material to be used in the key locking insert (Keensert) installation process and:
- Drill and countersink the material.
- Tap the hole in the material.
- Insert the key locking insert (Keensert) into the hole.
- Screw the key locking insert down into the material with the aid of the pneumatic power tool!
Keensert Installation Tool Kit
We offer the pneumatic power tool you need to quickly assemble your key locking inserts. Check them out here. Request a quote today, and our team of experts can help source your needs!
Do you need more details on why you need a pneumatic power tool? Watch the video below!
Optionally, you might also be interested on reading our previous blog posts about pneumatic power tools, and on how to manually install key locking inserts (Keenserts)!
Book a one-on-one consultation with our President, Robin, to discuss how MF Supply can help you solve your Industrial Sourcing, Fastener, and Safety concerns.
MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified supply chain partner to business, industry and government. We are sourcing experts and stocking distributors of Hardware, Precision & Mil-Spec Fasteners and Safety supplies. For more than 50 years, we have been supplying manufacturers in the electronics, industrial, commercial, aerospace and military markets with the full range of fastener products and services. Our Cage Code is 58QG4 and our registered name is RL Supply Inc dba MF Supply.
Check out MF Supply’s Handy Keensert® Cross Reference Tables!
Posted: November 10, 2022 Filed under: Alloy Keenserts, Inch and Mil-Spec Keensert, keensert, Metric Keensert, Stainless Steel Keenserts | Tags: Hardware, Keenserts, manufacturing Leave a commentCheckout our three most popular Keylocking Insert cross reference charts to see if there is a Functional Equivalent to your Keensert® OEM brand, and start saving money and reducing lead times immediately.
| Read More https://conta.cc/3r0B1Q3 |
Floating Inserts Now Available!
Posted: June 17, 2021 Filed under: keensert | Tags: Keenserts, threaded inserts Leave a comment
Floating Key-locking Inserts are often used to help compensate for uneven surfaces which need alignment, and where expansion and contraction are an issue. We offer the KNK series in both locking and non-locking styles from size 2-56 through 1/2-13 in A286, 300 Series Stainless Steel and 4140 Alloy Steel.
Floating Keenserts Available At MF Supply https://conta.cc/3pS3Cpx
Keensert Functional Equivalent Case Study
Posted: March 23, 2021 Filed under: keensert | Tags: Floating Inserts, Functional Equivalents, Keenserts Leave a commentWe had a customer who was bidding on a job for subassembly for a Defense Department manufacturer. Their bill of materials called for a floating insert in 8286 steel with an OEM part number: KNKDL428JT.
This part is an Alcoa part that would not have been delivered for over 29 weeks – that’s more than half of a year! Not only would these parts take way too long, but they were also very expensive.
Functional Equivalents for Keenserts
So, this customer came to us for a solution. We were able to take their print, cross-reference their BOM, and find the functional equivalents they needed.
- Note: Supplying us with your print is extremely important so that we can determine the internal and external threats, the material in all of the specifications for this key locking insert.
We went to our manufacturer, who was able to provide this part in five weeks with full certifications and a certificate of conformance certifying that it was a functional equivalent to the KNK part.
Why Choose MF Supply for Functional Equivalents?
By providing the functional equivalent, we were able to shorten the delivery time from 29 weeks down to five weeks. We obtained a cost savings of 59%. Our customer won the job. Their work was completed on time. The job was more profitable due to the cost savings. The manufacturer was able to pass those savings on to the end-user, and the job has been a repeater, and it’s been profitable for everyone involved.
If you find yourself in this situation and you’d like to evaluate if a functional equivalent is available for your application, or if you’d like to explore if you can save time and money while maintaining quality by using functional equivalence, our team is here for you!
Learn More About MF Supply
We specialize in hardware solutions for many industries! If you have any questions about our products, please contact us today and continue to explore our website.
You can also read about other case studies for functional equivalents here:
- Brand Equivalent Case Study: Achieving faster delivery & lower costs using functional equivalents
- Case Study: Smart Manufacturers use Brand Equivalents to Save Time and Money
Keensert Installation Tool Kits
Posted: February 23, 2021 Filed under: keensert, key-locking inserts | Tags: Keensert Installation Kit, Keenserts, Manual Keensert Installation Leave a commentKeenserts are very small but very strong key locking inserts used across many industries, especially in aerospace and precision manufacturing. While Keenserts are easy to install, it is essential to have all of the necessary tools to properly install them.
What Hole Size and Tools do I Need to Install My Keenserts Manually?
This is a common question we receive from manufacturers, so today, we are going to share everything you need to know to install your key locking inserts.
Prior to installing a key locking insert, you have to check with the supplier to make sure you have the proper drill and tap. Each part number has its own combination of drill and tap. This is really important, and it’s based on the outside and inside diameter.
Check out our Keensert Buyer’s Guide, Keensert Cross-Reference Guides, and How to Manually Install Keenserts.
Commercial or Military Key Locking Inserts?
It’s also important to note that each key locking insert has different types of thread depending upon their military or commercial. So, prior to installing the inserts, you need to have the following information…
- Nose assembly.
- Drill and tap size for the insert you’re installing.
- The fastener you’re installing.
Tools For Keensert Installation:
- Drill
- Drill Bit
- Drill or Tap Wrench
- Tap
- Countersink Tool
- Keensert Installation Tool
- Hammer
What is a Broaching Tool, and When Will I Need One?
A broaching tool is an extra installation tool that is used for very hard parent materials such as A286 or A4140. The purpose of the broach is to create slots for the keys in the parent material when the regular tools won’t cut it.
Hydro-Pneumatic Keensert Installation Tool
If you are installing key locking inserts by the 1,000s, then the pneumatic tool is a better option for installation. Learn more here.
Learn More About Keensert Installation
If you would like to learn more about our key locking inserts or any of our other hardware products, continue to browse our website and contact us today!
Installing Key Locking Inserts with Pneumatic Power Tools
Posted: February 18, 2021 Filed under: keensert, KEENTOOLPNEUMATIC, key-locking inserts, Pneumatic Power Tools | Tags: Hardware, Keenserts, KEENTOOLPNEUMATIC, Key Locking Inserts, Mil-spec fasteners, Pneumatic Power Tools, Power Tool Leave a commentIn last week’s blog, we discussed when and how to install key locking inserts manually. If you have a few hundred inserts to install, the manual process is 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.
How to Install Keenserts with a Pneumatic Tool
- The beginning of the installation process is the same as a manual installation.
- Drill and Countersink the Material
- Tap the Material
- Manually Insert the Key Locking Insert
- The next step is to use the power tool to simply screw the key into place.
You can see how this process can save you so much valuable time if you are installing the key locking inserts by the thousands!
Keensert Installation Tool Kit
We offer the pneumatic power tool you need to quickly assemble your key locking inserts! Check them out here.
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How to Manually Install Key Locking Inserts
Posted: February 15, 2021 Filed under: keensert, key-locking inserts | Tags: Hardware, Keenserts, Key Locking Inserts Leave a commentWhat is a Keensert?
A Keensert or key locking insert is a solid bushing style insert that is threaded on both the inside and the outside and has wedges or “keys” attached at the top. These inserts are used to distribute loads and repair or strengthen threads against failures due to stripping, seizing or corrosion. They are commonly used in precision manufacturing and aerospace applications.
Check out our Buyer’s Guide to Keenserts!
What is the Best Way to Install Keenserts?
There are a few methods used to install key locking inserts. Manual installation is best for assemblies that are in the hundreds, but if you are installing a lot of Keenserts, pneumatic installation is the way to go.
Keensert Manual Installation
- Drill and Countersink the Material
- Tap the Material
- Manually Insert the Key Locking Insert
- Use the Installation Tool to Drive the Keensert
Here is the full installation clip from the video.
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If you are interested in learning more about our hardware, check out our other blogs and browse our products online. If you would like to learn how to install Keenserts with pneumatic tools, stay tuned for next week’s blog!