Why Use Nitronic Keenserts vs. Nitronic Helicoils?
Posted: July 29, 2025 Filed under: Brand equivalents, Fasteners, keensert, key-locking inserts, Nitronic 60 Keenserts, Threaded Bushing, Threaded Fasteners, Threaded Inserts | Tags: Inserts, inserts for manufacturers, Keenserts, Key-Locking Inserts, manufacturing, Mil-Spec Nitronic Keenserts, Nitroinc, Nitronic 60, Nitronic 60 Keenserts, Nitronic Keenserts, Nitronic Keylocking Inserts, threaded bushing, threaded fastener Leave a comment
If you need Nitronic material for your thread repair or thread reinforcement project, you might be deciding between helical and/or key-locking inserts. Here are some considerations to help you evaluate which product will best solve for your needs.
But first, let’s take a closer look at Nitronic 60…
What Makes Nitronic Special?
Nitronic 60, the most commonly used Nitronic material used to manufacture inserts, is a high-performance stainless steel alloy enriched with nitrogen, renowned for its exceptional wear, galling, and corrosion resistance. It provides exceptional resistance to crevice corrosion, general corrosion and high temperature oxidation, This makes it ideal for applications that require durable and reliable thread repair or reinforcement in marine environments, chemical processing equipment, and assemblies that require frequent disassembly.
Nitronic Keenserts® vs. Helicoils
Helicoils (helical inserts) are used for thread repair and reinforcement. They are considered the simplest way to repair stripped or damaged threads. Helical wire inserts are the way to go when reducing costs and minimizing space are priorities. Helicals are useful for creating permanent strong threads in softer materials, in lower heat and lower torque environments, or to convert threads between inch and metric sizes.
So what’s the the catch?
Helicals have certain limitations that Keenserts® (key-locking inserts) overcome. Keenserts are the best bet in heavy wear, high vibration and high heat situations where saving space is not a concern and the hole depth is limited.
If your project calls for Nitronic inserts, below are four reasons why you should consider choosing Keensert® style key-locking inserts vs. Nitronic helical inserts:
- Superior Strength and Stability: Nitronic key-locking inserts have locking keys that mechanically lock the insert into place, offering superior resistance to vibration and torque-out compared to helical inserts, which rely solely on friction.
- Enhanced Durability: The durable design of key-locking inserts provides greater resistance against thread stripping and wear, making them suitable for repeated assembly and disassembly without compromising the integrity of the threads.
- Corrosion and Galling Resistance: Both helical inserts and key-locking inserts made from Nitronic 60 offer excellent corrosion resistance. However, key-locking inserts provide additional structural integrity, especially crucial in harsh environments where component failure is not an option.
- Easier Installation and Maintenance: Nitronic key-locking inserts require no special taps or tools for installation beyond standard equipment—a pneumatic power tool is recommended if installing key-locking inserts in the thousands—reducing downtime during maintenance or initial assembly. Their solid, one-piece design simplifies handling and reduces the likelihood of installation errors.
Unsure which Nitronic 60 insert is ideal for your next thread-repair or reinforcement project? Send us your questions, we’re here to help!
Shop Nitronic Keensert® Style Key-Locking Inserts at MF Supply!
Nitronic Keenserts® Series and Standards Available
In addition to the previous reasons, Nitronic Keenserts® style key-locking inserts are also available in a variety of specialized styles/series and standards that are tailored for specific applications:
- Miniature (KNC): Ideal for lightweight applications where space and weight constraints are critical, such as electronics or avionics. Available inch/imperial and Mil-Spec sizes run from 2-52 through 1/4-20 inches.
- Thin Wall (KN & KNM): Excellent for limited-space installations, providing strength without adding significant bulk, commonly used in precision engineering. Available inch/imperial and Mil-Spec sizes run from 10-24 through 1/2-20 inches, and metric sizes run from M5 through M12.
- Heavy-Duty (KNH & KNHM): Designed for high-stress applications where structural integrity and robust fastening capabilities are essential, such as automotive and heavy machinery. Available inch/imperial and Mil-Spec sizes run from 1-8 through 7/8-14 inches, and metric sizes run from M4 through M24.
- Extra Heavy-Duty (KNHXH): Engineered for extreme load-bearing and high-torque scenarios, perfect for heavy industrial and military applications demanding maximum strength and durability. Available inch/imperial and Mil-Spec sizes run from 1-8 through 7/8-14 inches.
Nitronic Keenserts® style key-locking inserts can also follow/meet stringent aerospace and military standards, including:
These styles/series and standards provide adequate solutions ranging from lightweight applications in aerospace to heavy-duty industrial settings.
Industries That Benefit From Nitronic Keenserts®
Nitronic Keensert® style key-locking inserts are ideal for industries that demand trusted and dependable reliability, such as:
- Aerospace: Nitronic key-locking inserts are essential for structural components requiring exceptional strength and resistance to vibration.
- Marine: Nitronic key-locking inserts are able to withstand harsh saltwater environments without corrosion.
- Automotive and Defense: Nitronic key-locking inserts are ideal for parts undergoing frequent assembly and disassembly.
- Chemical Processing: Nitronic key-locking inserts are extremely resilient under highly corrosive conditions.
MF Supply, Your Trusted Source for Nitronic Keensert® Style Key-Locking Inserts
MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified business, and a leading supplier of Nitronic Keensert® style key-locking inserts for manufacturers, engineers, government and industry. At MF Supply, we understand the industry’s need to balance cost, quality, availability, and paperwork/certification requirements—DFARS, COC, and more. Most of our popular Nitronic key-locking inserts sizes are in stock and ready to ship within 24 hours.
Buy Nitronic Keensert® Style Key-Locking Inserts From MF Supply!
Do you still have questions or would like to speak with a representative? Reach out to us or send us an RFQ below, 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
- Creatively Solve Problems – We are sourcing experts and specialize in hard to find parts. We offer custom manufacturing and reworking solutions at competitive pricing, reducing long deliveries.
- Functional Equivalents To Expensive Brand Names- We stock and source alternatives to brand name fasteners, reducing long lead times and saving you money.
- 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.
- 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, with an expertise in inserts, military fasteners and stainless steel hardware. 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.
Inch & Metric Nitronic Keenserts® Now Available at www.mfsupply.com!
Posted: November 15, 2023 Filed under: Brand equivalents, Fasteners, Inch and Mil-Spec Keensert, keensert, key-locking inserts, Metric Keensert, Nitronic 60 Keenserts, Threaded Bushing, Threaded Fasteners | Tags: Fasteners, inch keenserts, Inserts, inserts for manufacturers, Keenserts, manufacturing, Mechanical Fasteners, metric keenserts, Mil-spec fasteners, mil-spec keenserts, Nitronic 60, Nitronic 60 Keensesrts, Nitronic Keenserts, threaded bushing, threaded fastener Leave a comment
In the bustling world of manufacturing and engineering, where every component counts and the margin for error is slim, MF Supply recognizes the intricacy involved in sourcing materials that offer both superior performance and extended durability. This is where our friends, the Key-locking Inserts (AKA Keenserts®) become the stars of the show. Today, we’re turning the spotlight on an insert that’s been making waves in the industry: the Nitronic 60 Key-locking Insert!
If you’re on the quest for Key-locking Inserts that promise to elevate the integrity of your projects, you’re in the right place. Nitronic 60 key-locking Inserts are not just components; they’re your peace of mind molded into high-performance alloy.
Why Nitronic 60 Key-locking Inserts? The Vanguard of Resilience
Picture a material that laughs in the face of wear, shrugs off corrosion, and doesn’t flinch under high torque. That’s Nitronic 60 for you — an alloy steel that’s as tough as they come. Crafted from this robust alloy, Nitronic Key-locking Inserts boast unparalleled wear and galling resistance. For those of you constantly battling the wear and tear that comes with mechanical demands, these threaded inserts are your knights in shining armor. Think of them as the silent guardians against the everyday wear-and-tear that can compromise your work.
The Rust Doesn’t Sleep, But You Can
Corrosion is the arch-nemesis of metal, lurking and waiting to undermine your structures. But with Nitronic 60’s exceptional corrosion resistance, rest easy knowing that your components are as steadfast as your ambition. Whether it’s the salty bath of marine environments or the demanding conditions of chemical processing, they’ve got you covered.
Strength That Speaks Volumes
Nitronic 60 Key-locking Inserts don’t just resist wear; they embrace strength. High stress, high torque — bring it on! The formidable might of Nitronic 60 makes these Key-locking Inserts the backbone for applications that can’t afford to falter, from the aerospace zeniths to the depths of automotive innovation.
The Nitronic 60 Difference
We hear you asking, “But how do they stack up against other materials?” Here’s the deal:
Nitronic 60, as a material, is a high-performance stainless steel alloy known for its excellent strength and resistance to wear and galling. This versatile alloy provides exceptional resistance to high temperature oxidation, crevice corrosion and general corrosion, making it well suited to marine and chemical applications. Key-locking inserts made from Nitronic 60 are used in various applications where high strength and corrosion resistance are a must.
- Carbon Steel Inserts: Compared to standard steel, Nitronic 60 offers superior resistance to corrosion and galling.
- Stainless Steel Inserts: Among stainless steels, Nitronic 60 typically outperforms varieties such as 304 or 316 in wear resistance.
- Inconel Inserts: Inconel excels in high-temperature applications but comes at a higher cost and greater machining difficulty than Nitronic 60.
- 4140 Alloy Inserts: 4140 Alloy provides greater tensile strength and enhanced performance at high temperatures, although it falls short in corrosion resistance and often necessitates protective coatings. Nitronic 60 is better suited for applications involving friction at moderate temperatures.
- A286 Inserts: A286 excels in high-temperature applications, maintaining higher strength at elevated temperatures, though it’s tougher to machine and more expensive than Nitronic 60.
A Spectrum of Possibilities
We’re not about “one-size-fits-all” because we know your engineering needs are as unique as your blueprints. That’s why we offer Key-locking Inserts in inch, mil-spec and metric sizes that are tailored to the scope and scale of your vision — common internal diameters include #2-56 through 1 1/2-6 for inch & mil-spec sizes, and M2 through M24 for metric sizes. And with varying lengths at your disposal, the only limit is the application and your imagination. Materials
Compliance with stringent industry standards is not just a promise; it’s our practice. Our inserts meet or exceed critical aerospace and military specifications, ensuring that they deliver in applications where there is no room for error. Standards available include MS51830, MS51831, MS51832, NAS1394 and NAS1395. Series available include Miniature KNC, Thin Wall KN & KNM, heavy-duty KNH & KNHM, and extra heavy-duty series KNHXH.
Whether you’re in aerospace, automotive, defense, or any field that demands unyielding materials, these inserts are ready to serve. They’re the go-to for applications that require repeated assembly and disassembly, ensuring longevity and reliability every step of the way.
Discover More, Achieve More
MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified business, and a trusted supplier of Nitronic 60 Key-locking Inserts (AKA Keenserts®) for manufacturers, government and industry. Eager to delve deeper into the world of Nitronic 60 Key-locking Inserts? Visit our website, where innovation is just a click away, and join the ranks of manufacturers and engineers who don’t just build, but inspire.
With Nitronic 60 Key-locking Inserts, it’s not just about holding things together; it’s about unlocking possibilities. Discover the sizes, standards, and the success that our inserts can enable.
Inch & Mil-Spec Nitronic 60 Key-locking Inserts
- Miniature & Thin Wall – KN, KNL, KNC & KNCL Series
- Heavy Duty – KNH & KNHL Series
- Extra Heavy Duty – KNHXH & KNHXHL Series
Metric Nitronic 60 Key-locking Inserts
Do you still have questions or would like to speak with a representative? 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 and specialize in hard to find parts. We offer custom manufacturing and reworking solutions at competitive pricing, 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.