How Do Key Cutting Machines Work

If you’ve ever needed a replacement key for your home, car or office, there’s a 99% chance that you had your original key duplicated using a key cutting machine.

These machines are some of the most useful tools a locksmith can own. They allow keys of any size, shape or appearance to be copied, producing an exact replica that can be used in exactly the same way as the original. A key can be duplicated an exhaustive number of times - no matter how many duplicates you need, a key cutting machine can handle it.

How Do Key Duplicate Machines Work?

The truth is that as locksmith technology has advanced, key-cutting machines have become faster and easier to use. This is great news for trainee locksmiths!

Key duplicate machines work on the ‘copy’ principle. As you trace the teeth of one key with the key-cutting machine, a separate part of the machine simultaneously grinds the replica teeth into the blank key that is being cut.

First of all, try and select a blank key which is similar in appearance to the original key. Insert the original key into the first vice – make sure that the teeth are visible and facing upward. You should then insert the blank key into the second vice. This is where the cutting blade is located. Ensure that both keys are tightly secured and won’t move during the cutting process.

Before switching the machine on, be sure to close the protective cover.

Once it has been switched on, your machine will automatically detect the speed and angle at which the cutting wheel should be spinning. Simply trace the teeth and grooves of the original key and, once you’re finished, switch off the machine. Use a wire brush to remove any debris and polish off any rough edges.

Make sure that there are no sharp edges to the key. The last thing you want to do now is insert a sharp key into the lock and damage the lock irreparably. Especially now that you have two keys!

Compare the two keys side-by-side. Are they an identical match? If they are, then your key is good to go. However, if you have any doubts about the outline of the new key, then re-insert the original key, grab another blank, and try to create a more accurate key using the same method.

Looking for key-cutting machine supplier?

Guangzhou Heynes High-Tech Co., Ltd. was located in Guangzhou China, established in 2009, and have many years of history in Auto part industry. Our products include car keys, shells, transponder chips, key programmer and other automotive accessories. If you have any more questions, pelease do not hesitate to contact us.