Key stock is used primarily in mechanical engineering and manufacturing to secure rotating elements, such as gears, pulleys, and couplings, to a shaft. It ensures that these components rotate in unison with the shaft, transmitting torque and preventing slippage. Key stock is typically a small, rectangular or square piece of metal that fits into a corresponding slot, known as a keyway, on both the shaft and the component. This setup creates a positive mechanical connection. Key stock is crucial in applications where precise alignment and torque transmission are necessary. It is commonly used in machinery, automotive, aerospace, and industrial equipment. By providing a reliable connection, key stock helps maintain the efficiency and safety of mechanical systems, reducing the risk of component failure due to slippage or misalignment. Different types of key stock, such as square, rectangular, and woodruff keys, are used depending on the specific requirements of the application. The choice of material, such as steel, stainless steel, or brass, also depends on factors like load, environmental conditions, and compatibility with other materials in the system.

To cut key stock to size, follow these steps: 1. **Measure and Mark**: Determine the required length of the key stock using a caliper or ruler. Mark the cutting point with a scribe or permanent marker for precision. 2. **Secure the Key Stock**: Place the key stock in a vise or clamp to hold it securely. Ensure it is tightly clamped to prevent movement during cutting. 3. **Select the Cutting Tool**: Choose an appropriate cutting tool based on the material and size of the key stock. Common tools include a hacksaw for manual cutting or a band saw for more precise and efficient cutting. 4. **Cut the Key Stock**: Align the cutting tool with the marked line. If using a hacksaw, use smooth, steady strokes to cut through the key stock. For a band saw, ensure the blade is suitable for metal cutting and guide the stock slowly through the blade. 5. **Deburr the Edges**: After cutting, the edges may be rough or have burrs. Use a file or deburring tool to smooth the edges, ensuring a clean finish and proper fit in the keyway. 6. **Check the Fit**: Test the cut key stock in the keyway to ensure it fits correctly. Adjust if necessary by filing down any excess material. 7. **Clean the Key Stock**: Wipe the key stock with a clean cloth to remove any metal shavings or debris. By following these steps, you can accurately cut key stock to the desired size, ensuring it fits properly in its application.

Key stocks, often used in mechanical systems to transmit torque between shafts and components, are typically made from materials that offer a balance of strength, durability, and machinability. The most common materials include: 1. **Carbon Steel**: This is the most widely used material for key stocks due to its strength and affordability. It is often used in applications where high strength is required. Carbon steel key stocks can be further categorized into low, medium, and high carbon steels, with varying levels of hardness and tensile strength. 2. **Stainless Steel**: Known for its corrosion resistance, stainless steel key stocks are ideal for environments exposed to moisture or chemicals. They are often used in food processing, marine, and chemical industries. Common grades include 304 and 316 stainless steel. 3. **Brass**: Brass key stocks are used in applications where non-magnetic properties are important. They also offer good corrosion resistance and are often used in electrical and plumbing applications. 4. **Aluminum**: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, aluminum key stocks are used in applications where weight is a concern. They are not as strong as steel but are suitable for lighter-duty applications. 5. **Alloy Steel**: These key stocks are made from steel alloyed with other elements to improve properties like strength, toughness, and wear resistance. They are used in high-stress applications. 6. **Plastic and Composite Materials**: In some applications, especially where weight and corrosion are critical, key stocks may be made from high-strength plastics or composite materials. These are less common but useful in specific scenarios. Each material is chosen based on the specific requirements of the application, including load, environmental conditions, and cost considerations.

To measure key stock, follow these steps: 1. **Identify the Keyway**: Locate the keyway on the shaft and the corresponding keyway on the hub or gear. 2. **Measure Keyway Width**: Use a caliper to measure the width of the keyway on the shaft. This measurement is crucial as it determines the width of the key stock needed. 3. **Measure Keyway Depth**: Measure the depth of the keyway on the shaft and the hub. This ensures the key stock will fit properly without protruding or being too shallow. 4. **Measure Keyway Length**: Measure the length of the keyway on the shaft and the hub. The key stock should match or slightly exceed this length to ensure full engagement. 5. **Select Key Stock Material**: Choose the appropriate material for the key stock based on the application requirements, such as steel for high strength or brass for corrosion resistance. 6. **Determine Key Stock Size**: Based on the measurements, select the key stock size. Standard sizes are available, but custom sizes can be machined if necessary. 7. **Check Tolerances**: Ensure the key stock fits within the tolerances of the keyway dimensions. It should slide in without excessive force but not be loose. 8. **Inspect for Fit**: Insert the key stock into the keyway to verify the fit. It should sit flush with the shaft and hub surfaces. 9. **Consider Load and Torque**: Ensure the key stock can handle the operational load and torque. This may involve consulting engineering tables or guidelines. 10. **Document Measurements**: Record all measurements and specifications for future reference or replacement needs. By following these steps, you can accurately measure and select the appropriate key stock for your mechanical application.

Key stock, also known as machine key stock, is used to create a key that fits into a keyway to lock rotating elements like gears or pulleys to a shaft. Standard sizes of key stock vary based on the system of measurement used, either imperial (inch) or metric. **Imperial Sizes:** - Widths and heights typically range from 1/8 inch to 1 inch. - Common sizes include 1/8 x 1/8 inch, 3/16 x 3/16 inch, 1/4 x 1/4 inch, 5/16 x 5/16 inch, 3/8 x 3/8 inch, 1/2 x 1/2 inch, 5/8 x 5/8 inch, 3/4 x 3/4 inch, and 1 x 1 inch. - Lengths are often available in 12-inch or 36-inch bars, which can be cut to the required length. **Metric Sizes:** - Widths and heights typically range from 2 mm to 50 mm. - Common sizes include 2 x 2 mm, 3 x 3 mm, 4 x 4 mm, 5 x 5 mm, 6 x 6 mm, 8 x 8 mm, 10 x 10 mm, 12 x 12 mm, 16 x 16 mm, 20 x 20 mm, 25 x 25 mm, and 50 x 50 mm. - Lengths are often available in 300 mm or 1000 mm bars. Key stock is usually made from materials like steel, stainless steel, or brass, and can be plain or zinc-plated for corrosion resistance. The choice of size and material depends on the specific application requirements, including the torque to be transmitted and environmental conditions.

1. **Select the Correct Key Stock**: Ensure the key stock matches the dimensions of the keyway in both the shaft and the hub. It should fit snugly without excessive force. 2. **Prepare the Components**: Clean the keyway and the key stock to remove any debris, rust, or oil. This ensures a proper fit and prevents slippage. 3. **Align the Keyway**: Position the shaft and the hub so that their keyways are aligned. This alignment is crucial for the key stock to fit properly. 4. **Insert the Key Stock**: Slide the key stock into the keyway on the shaft. It should fit snugly but not require excessive force. If necessary, gently tap it with a soft mallet to ensure it is seated properly. 5. **Align the Hub**: Carefully slide the hub onto the shaft, ensuring the hub’s keyway aligns with the key stock. The hub should slide over the key stock smoothly. 6. **Secure the Assembly**: Once the hub is in place, check that the key stock is fully seated and that the hub is properly aligned. Tighten any set screws or locking mechanisms to secure the hub to the shaft. 7. **Check for Proper Fit**: Rotate the assembly to ensure there is no binding and that the key stock is properly seated. The assembly should rotate smoothly without any play. 8. **Final Inspection**: Verify that the key stock is flush with the ends of the keyway and does not protrude. This prevents interference with other components. 9. **Lubricate if Necessary**: Apply a suitable lubricant to the assembly if required, to reduce friction and wear during operation.

You can buy key stock from several sources: 1. **Industrial Supply Stores**: Companies like Grainger, MSC Industrial Supply, and McMaster-Carr offer a wide range of key stock materials. They provide various sizes, materials, and finishes suitable for different applications. 2. **Online Retailers**: Websites such as Amazon, eBay, and Alibaba have listings for key stock. These platforms often have competitive pricing and customer reviews to help guide your purchase. 3. **Local Hardware Stores**: Chains like Home Depot, Lowe's, or Ace Hardware may carry key stock, especially in areas with a high demand for industrial or mechanical components. 4. **Metal Suppliers**: Specialized metal suppliers or distributors often stock key stock in various materials like steel, stainless steel, and brass. They can provide custom sizes and bulk orders. 5. **Machinery and Tool Suppliers**: Companies that specialize in machinery parts and tools, such as Fastenal or Zoro, often have key stock available. 6. **Automotive Parts Stores**: Some automotive parts retailers may carry key stock, particularly if they cater to industrial or heavy machinery sectors. 7. **Local Machine Shops**: Machine shops may have key stock available for purchase, especially if they offer custom machining services. 8. **Online Marketplaces for Industrial Goods**: Websites like ThomasNet or GlobalSpec can connect you with suppliers of key stock. 9. **Direct from Manufacturers**: Some manufacturers sell directly to consumers or businesses, allowing for bulk purchases or custom orders. 10. **Specialty Engineering Suppliers**: Companies that focus on engineering components may offer a wide selection of key stock. When purchasing, consider the material, size, and quantity you need, as well as shipping costs and delivery times.