Key Cutters

Parallel Keys

The parallel keyway milling process starts by cutting a simple keyway slot, all the way through the axial diameter of the part. The keyseat is cut into the shaft and the key goes into the keyseat, between both parts forming a secure bond. You could use an endmill to make these cuts but using a key cutter is much easier. Key cutters come in a variety of cutter widths and cutting diameters. Pre-cut key stock is available in standard inch and metric sizes.

Woodruff Keys

Woodruff keys are an alternative to parallel keys. The keys are half-moon shaped and fit into a keyseat shaped as a matching semi-circle that is cut into the shaft. The part that is mated to the shaft has a rectangular slot cut.

Woodruff keys may be full radius or flat bottom but the keyseat will always be radiused by the Key Cutter.
Woodruff keys have several advantages over parallel keys:

• They eliminate the milling near shaft shoulders which reduces stress concentrations and make it easier to maintain circularity constraints
  
• They are better suited for high speed operation of the rotating shaft
  
• The key has a more precise fit reducing play and improves the reliability of the key
  
• A woodruff key may be easier to remove because of its circular profile of the seat. A parallel key requires removal along the axial distance of the seat.
  

RedLine Tools carries a full line of carbide key cutters for every application. We have solid carbide and carbide head with steel shank key cutters with teeth arrangements in standard, staggered, and fine. Head geometries include square, corner radius and full radius for seat cutting, deep slotting, soft material and push-pull applications. If you have a hard-to-reach application, we have both long shank and long reach cutters.

Click the link to browse our inventory.