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MF Supply is a leading supplier of Keensert installation tools for manufacturers, government and industry. Our extensive inventory includes installation tools compatible with imperial, metric, and Mil-Spec key locking inserts, including major brands and equivalents to Acme, Alcoa, Camloc, Clarendon, Fairchild, Kaynar, Microdot, Recoil, Rexnord and Tridair Keenserts®. Why Use a Keensert® Installation Tool? Keensert® style inserts are installed using a size-specific tool. The right tool allows you to:
- Achieve a Flawless Finish: Carefully thread and seat the insert so it sits perfectly flush or just below the material's surface.
- Create a Secure, Permanent Lock: The tool is specifically designed to drive the locking keys into the parent material, firmly anchoring the insert and preventing it from backing out under stress or vibration.
- Guarantee Reliable Results: Using the correct key-locking insert tools simplifies the process and ensures your installation meets rigorous performance and industry standards.
Note: Standard tools are readily available, but uncommon sizes may have longer lead times. Pneumatic tools are only available for sizes M5–M12 and #10–½". Available Tool Options Avoid production delays by ordering the right tools together with your inserts. 1 - Universal Installation Tools: Perfect for smaller projects or repairs, our hand tools offer a precise and reliable method for installing Keenserts® in the hundreds (up to 999 inserts). These tools are designed for ease of use, ensuring a secure and flush installation with every use.
2 - Hydro-Pneumatic Installation Tools: For high-volume applications involving thousands of Keenserts® (1,000+ inserts), a hydro-pneumatic installation tool is the most efficient and practical solution. Designed for sizes M5–M12 and #10–½", these power tools streamline the installation process, saving you time and labor costs on large-scale production.
Note: Size-specific nose tips, sold separately, are required for use with pneumatic installation tools.
3 - Kits: Available for common sizes and materials, these kits include 2 – 5 inserts, a matching drill and tap, a manual installation tool, and step-by-step instructions.
4 - Broaching Tools: When parent materials exceed RC30 hardness—such as A286, A4140 steel, or anodized aluminum—standard tools won’t be enough to create the precise slots needed to install Keensert® style inserts. Broaching tools, which are equipped with hardened blades, are available and better suited for cutting and shaping the slots needed for accurate insert key engagement and durable installations in hard materials.
Note: Tools are only sold online with the purchase of inserts. All orders must meet a $100 minimum. How to Install Keenserts® the Right Way Keensert® style inserts are designed for rapid installation in standard pre-tapped holes using common drills and taps, paired with specialized manual or pneumatic tools to seat the keys. A key advantage of these inserts is that you can master the entire installation process in minutes, helping to reduce both downtime and labor costs. For example, installing a key-locking insert manually follows a simple four-step procedure:
- Drill: Drill a hole in the parent material to the specific size recommended for your insert.
- Tap: Tap new threads in the hole that match the insert's external thread.
- Screw: Manually screw the key-locking insert into the newly tapped hole.
- Drive: Place the installation tool on the insert and strike it with a hammer to drive the locking keys down, creating a strong mechanical lock.
For more detailed instructions, see our guides below:
Common Installation Tools Questions 1 - What tools do I need to install a key-locking insert?
You will need a drill, a tap that matches the insert's external thread, and a Keensert® installation tool with a hammer. For harder materials, you may also need a broaching tool.
2 - Should I use manual or pneumatic tools?
Manual tools are best for up to hundreds of inserts (up to 999 inserts). Pneumatic tools are ideal for 1,000+ installations.
Note: Some manual/hand tools work for multiple sizes. Pneumatic tools are only available for sizes M5–M12 and #10–½"
3 - What is a broaching tool?
A broaching tool has blades that are used to cut and create slots in hard parent materials (harder than RC30), such as A286, A4140 steel or anodized aluminum. This allows the insert's keys to be driven into the material effectively.
4 - Where can I find the correct drill and tap sizes?
The required drill and tap sizes are specific to each Keensert® style insert and can be found in the manufacturer's product specifications or installation guide. The tap will typically match the size, pitch and tolerance of the insert's external diameter and thread. Drill sizes are often oversized relative to the external thread size.
Note: Tools are only sold online with the purchase of inserts. All orders must meet a $100 minimum. Resources: Why Buy Keensert® Installation Tools from MF Supply? With over 50 years of experience as a trusted supplier of Keensert® style key-locking inserts for manufacturers, government and industry, MF Supply also brings a deep expertise in Keensert® installation tools. Whether you're working with imperial, metric, or Mil-Spec inserts, we offer the tools you need to ensure precise, reliable installations.
Our extensive inventory includes hydro-pneumatic, hand tools, broaching tools, drills, and taps compatible with all Keensert® series, including:
These tools are also compatible with Keenserts® made from materials such as alloy steel, Nitronic 60, A286, and 300/18-8, 316, & 400/416 series stainless steel. Our Mil-Spec products are DFARS compliant with Certificate of Conformance (COC) and full certifications available upon request. Can't find what you're looking for? Email us at [email protected] for a custom quote. "We have the right screw for you" is our motto after all!
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