Key cutting machines cut the unique profile of a key, with different types for car keys, skeleton keys, common house keys, tubular keys. Manual duplicators are least accurate, while automatic, semi-automatic, laser, and code cutting machines are more precise. Skeleton and tubular keys require specific machines.
A key cutting machine is a machine that is used to cut the unique profile of a key. There are many different types of these machines, usually based on the type of key being cut: car keys, skeleton keys, common house keys, tubular keys. Most machines work by tracing the outline of a key to cut a new one. Some of the different types are automatic, code, laser, manual, and tubular key cutting machines.
A manual duplicator is perhaps the least accurate of all of these devices. However, they typically work well for ordinary house keys and, as a result, are often found at local home improvement stores. These machines work by clamping both the original key and the key to be cut on top of each other. This is in contrast to automatic machines where the two keys are set in separate, but parallel positions. In manual key cutting, the operator manually operates the machine to trace the outline onto the cut key, and in doing so, the machine cuts the blank key to a matching shape.
Automatic and semi-automatic machines do most of the work themselves, although automatic versions require even less operator assistance than their semi-automatic counterparts. The operator secures the original key on the machine with the help of a vice while the duplicate key is stored in another nearby area. A stylus traces the shape of the original key while simultaneously cutting out the duplicate key. Once the duplicate key is created, its freshly cut edges are brushed to remove any metal spurs. Automatic machines are more expensive and faster than semi-automatic machines.
A laser key cutting machine works the same way as an automatic one, except that the cutting is done by lasers instead of the blade. This allows dimples to be placed on the surface of the key, which is required for many of today’s higher security key entry systems. Laser machines are typically much more accurate than other types.
Code cutting machines use codes that specify the key milling parameters to be cut into the key. The code can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be on a coded card (such as a credit card) that contains details of where the notches on the key should be cut.
Duplicating a skeleton key – those old-fashioned looking keys – requires a small key cutting machine. This type of machine measures the depth of the key end, or bit, and then cuts a duplicate key to match.
Tubular machines are used when the original key has a tube shape. Some lawn mowers, for example, use this type of key. The device traces the shape of the key and creates a duplicate pattern of notches at the end of the tube. These machines require a much more experienced operator than most others.
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