If you have ever lost your keys or needed a spare set, you might have visited a locksmith or a hardware store to get a new one. But have you ever wondered how they make those copies so quickly and accurately? The answer is a key cutting machine. A key cutting machine is a device that can create a new key by following the shape and pattern of an existing one. It can also make a key from scratch by using a code or a template. Key cutting machines are essential tools for locksmiths, security professionals, and anyone who needs to make or duplicate keys. There are different types of key cutting machines, depending on the kind of key you want to make. Each key cutting machine has its significance because of its functionality and features.
In this article, we will explain what a key cutting machine is, what types of key cutting machines are available, and how to use a key cutting machine safely and effectively. We will also provide some tips and tricks for choosing the best key cutting machine for your needs and budget. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of how to use a key cutting machine and why it is a useful tool for anyone who needs keys.
How to Cut Keys with Different Machines?
There are three main types of key cutting machines: manual, electric, and laser. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages.
1. Manual key cutting machine:
This is the simplest and most common type of key cutting machine. It consists of a vice that holds the key blank and the original key, and a lever or a handle that moves a cutting wheel along the keys. The cutting wheel traces the shape of the original key and cuts the key blank accordingly. Manual key cutting machines are easy to use, cheap, and portable. However, they are also slow, noisy, and require manual effort.
2. Electric key cutting machine:
This is a more advanced and faster type of key cutting machine. It also consists of a vice that holds the key blank and the original key, but instead of a lever or a handle, it has a motor that drives the cutting wheel. The motor is controlled by a start button or a foot pedal. Electric key cutting machines are faster, quieter, and more accurate than manual ones. However, they are also more expensive, heavier, and require electricity.
3. Laser key cutting machine:
This is the most sophisticated and precise type of key cutting machine. It also consists of a vice that holds the key blank, but instead of an original key, it has a laser scanner that scans the original key and creates a digital image. The image is then transferred to a computer screen, where the user can adjust it. The key blank is then cut by a laser beam that follows the image. Laser key cutting machines are the most accurate, versatile, and secure type of key cutting machines. However, they are also the most expensive and complex, and require special training.
Safe and Smart Key Cutting Machine Usage
Using a key cutting machine can be dangerous if not done properly. Here are some safety precautions and tips for using a key cutting machine:
i. Wear protective gloves, goggles, and earplugs when using a key cutting machine. The machine can produce sparks, dust, and noise that can harm your eyes, skin, and ears.
ii. Keep your fingers away from the cutting wheel or the laser beam. They can cause serious injuries if they touch them.
iii. Make sure the key blank and the original key are securely clamped in the vice. If they are loose, they can fly out of the machine and hurt you or damage the machine.
iv. Check the accuracy of the cut before removing the keys from the vice. If the cut is not accurate, you can adjust the machine or repeat the process. Do not force the keys into the lock if they do not fit.
v. File and polish the keys after cutting them. The keys may have rough edges or burrs that can damage the lock or hurt your fingers. Use a metal file and a cloth to smooth and shine the keys.
How to Use a Manual Key Cutting Machine?
To use a manual key cutting machine, follow these steps:
1. Select the correct key blank that matches the original key. You can use a key gauge or a catalog to find the right key blank.
2. Clamp the key blank and the original key in the vice. Make sure they are aligned and parallel to each other. The key blank should be on the side of the cutting wheel, and the original key should be on the opposite side.
3. Operate the lever or the handle to move the cutting wheel along the keys. The cutting wheel will follow the shape of the original key and cut the key blank accordingly. Apply even pressure and speed throughout the process.
4. Remove the keys from the vice and check the accuracy of the cut. Compare the keys and see if they have the same shape and depth. If not, you can repeat the process or adjust the machine.
5. File and polish the keys. Use a metal file to remove any rough edges or burrs from the keys. Use a cloth to polish the keys and make them shiny.
How to Use an Electric Key Cutting Machine?
To use an electric key cutting machine, follow these steps:
1. Plug in and switch on the machine. Make sure the machine is connected to a power source and the switch is on.
2. Select the correct key blank that matches the original key. You can use a key gauge or a catalog to find the right key blank.
3. Clamp the key blank and the original key in the vice. Make assured they are associated and matching to each other. The key blank should be on the side of the cutting wheel, and the original key should be on the opposite side.
4. Press the start button or the foot pedal to cut the key. The motor will drive the cutting wheel along the keys. The cutting wheel will follow the shape of the original key and cut the key blank accordingly. The cut triggers the machine to stop automatically.
5. Remove the keys from the vice and check the accuracy of the cut. Compare the keys and see if they have the same shape and depth. If not, you can repeat the process or adjust the machine.
6. File and polish the keys. Use a metal file to remove any rough edges or burrs from the keys. Use a cloth to polish the keys and make them shiny.
How to Use a Laser Key Cutting Machine?
To use a laser key cutting machine, follow these steps:
1. Plug in and switch on the machine. Make sure the machine is connected to a power source and the switch is on.
2. Select the correct key blank that matches the original key. You can use a key gauge or a catalog to find the right key blank.
3. Clamp the key blank in the vice. Make sure it is secure and stable.
4. Insert the original key and scan it with the laser. The laser scanner will create a digital image of the original key and transfer it to the computer screen.
5. Adjust the settings and parameters on the screen. You can change the size, shape, depth, and angle of the cut. You can also preview the cut before starting it.
6. Press the start button to cut the key. The laser beam will follow the image and cut the key blank accordingly. The machine will stop automatically when the cut is done.
7. Remove the keys from the vice and check the accuracy of the cut. Compare the keys and see if they have the same shape and depth. If not, you can repeat the process or adjust the machine.
8. File and polish the keys. Use a metal file to remove any rough edges or burrs from the keys. Use a cloth to polish the keys and make them shiny.
Video Guidance:
Here is video guidance that you need to watch before you start using key cutting machine.
Conclusion
Key cutting machines are devices that can create new keys, duplicate existing keys, or customize keys for different purposes. There are various kinds of key cutting machines that operate in different ways. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. To operate a key cutting machine safely and effectively, you need to follow some guidelines and steps. This article has given you some basic information on how to use a key cutting machine.
If you want to try it out for yourself, you can look for a key cutting machine online or at a local hardware store. But remember to be cautious and enjoy the process! If you need professional help with your key cutting needs, you can contact Patriot Locksmith, a reliable and experienced locksmith service in Venice, FL. They offer residential, commercial, and automotive locksmith services, including lock replacement, lock rekey, lock installation, emergency lockout service, and more.