Glossary

Keps Lock Nuts feature a free-spinning nut and an integrated external tooth washer designed to prevent loosening caused by vibration. When tightened onto a bolt, screw, or stud, the teeth of the free-spinning washer will grip the installation surface, creating resistance against rotation. The added friction helps maintain a secure bond, making this fastener suitable for applications where vibration and movement are concerns, such as in light-duty automotive and machinery assemblies.

Key locking inserts, also known as key-locking threaded inserts or Keenserts® (a common brand), are threaded bushings used to reinforce or repair tapped holes in metal, plastic, or composite materials. They provide strong, wear-resistant internal threads in softer materials (like aluminum), or restore damaged threads in previously stripped holes.

A slot or groove machined into a mating part, such as a hub or gear that is designed to fit a key. The key prevents relative rotation between the parts, ensuring they move together and transmit torque effectively.

A KMC clamp is a high-quality industrial fastening device produced by KMC, a company known for its durable clamps and clips since 1908. Their COV Series clamps are medium-duty, vinyl-coated clamps designed for securing wires and tubes at temperatures up to 300°F. KMC manufactures all standard parts in the USA, ensuring compliance with RoHS and REACH standards for industrial reliability.

A KMC clip is a fastening device produced by KMC, the Original Clip and Clamp Company established in 1908. These clips are designed to securely hold wires, cables, tubes, and pipes in various industrial applications. KMC offers a wide range of standard clips, such as the CJV Series, which are vinyl-cushioned tube and wiring clips available in various sizes to accommodate different clamping diameters. All standard catalog parts are made in the USA and comply with RoHS and REACH standards, ensuring high quality and reliability.

An industrial expansion plug is a mechanical device used to seal, block, or test openings in pipes, tubes, or bores by expanding to create a tight and secure fit. These plugs are widely used in plumbing, automotive, aerospace, and industrial applications to prevent fluid or gas leakage, maintain pressure, or temporarily seal off sections for maintenance.

A patterned texture of small ridges or diamond-shaped grooves typically rolled or cut into the surface of a fastener or tool. Knurling provides improved grip or friction, making it easier to tighten, loosen, or handle the part by hand.