Machined keys are used in slots milled into shafts to provide a means of attachment and transmit power to a hub. Keystock is divided into two categories. One has a plus tolerance over the nominal width and is designed to have an interference fit with the mating key slot. The other is minus tolerance barstock which would have a looser fit in the same key slot, but provide easier assembly and disassembly.
In corrosion resistant materials, minus tolerance barstock in 316 Stainless is generally the only on the shelf option. Nickel Systems’ shop can provide finished keys in these materials as well as Alloy C276 (Hastelloy® C), Alloy 20 (Carpenter® 20), Alloy 400 (Monel®) and other nickel-based alloys.