
Fixing Keys for Punches with Key Grooves - Rectangular Through Hole
Fixing Keys for Punches with Key Grooves - Rectangular Through Hole provide a reliable way to clamp punches firmly and reduce movement during operation. Their rectangular, through-hole design supports stable positioning for repeatable results.
- Rectangular fixing key format with centered through hole for consistent punch retention
- Constructed from SKS3 or S45C steel for dependable strength under load
- Works with M4 / M5 / M6 screw center-hole configurations for straightforward mounting
- Designed for keyed punch systems to help prevent misalignment, wear, and premature failures
Specifications
18 configurations available
| T (Head thickness/plate thickness) (mm) | Specification | Material | type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.5 | For M4 screws | S45C | - |
| 3 | For M4 screws | S45C | - |
| 4.5 | For M5 screws | S45C | - |
| 3 | For M5 screws | S45C | - |
| 4.5 | For M6 screws | S45C | - |
| 3 | For M6 screws | S45C | - |
| 4.5 | For M4 screws | SKS3 | - |
| 3 | For M4 screws | SKS3 | - |
| 4.5 | For M5 screws | SKS3 | - |
| 3 | For M5 screws | SKS3 | - |
| 4.5 | For M6 screws | SKS3 | - |
| 3 | For M6 screws | SKS3 | - |
| 4.5 | Center hole for M4 screws | S45C | - |
| 3 | Center hole for M4 screws | S45C | - |
| 4.5 | Center hole for M5 screws | S45C | - |
| 3 | Center hole for M5 screws | S45C | - |
| 4.5 | Center hole for M6 screws | S45C | - |
| 3 | Center hole for M6 screws | S45C | - |
Product Guide
Application Scenarios+
This rectangular through-hole fixing key is used in precision punch tooling where keyed punches must stay stable during machining and repeated press cycles.
- Automotive and industrial connector punch sets: use the through-hole clamping design to reduce micro-movement in keyed punch systems, helping maintain consistent pin alignment and improving dimensional repeatability when cycling high quantities.
- General mechanical parts forming: pair it with punch holders using M4 / M5 / M6 center-hole screw configurations to enable secure tightening and consistent punch retention while minimizing wear from vibration.
- Wear-sensitive production runs: the rectangular fixing format and centered through hole support controlled seating, which helps prevent misalignment-driven edge damage and premature failures.
With SKS3 or S45C options and defined head thicknesses (T = 3 mm or 4.5 mm), this variant is well-suited for setups that prioritize clamp stability and repeatable punch positioning.
Material & Process Details+
These fixing keys are manufactured in either SKS3 or S45C steel, selected to balance strength and wear behavior under clamping load.
- SKS3: typically used when higher hardness and better wear resistance are required for tooling components that experience rubbing or frequent tightening cycles.
- S45C: a commonly used carbon steel option that offers reliable strength and machinability; it is a practical choice when toughness and consistent clamping performance are the priority.
For both material choices, the keys are typically produced in a heat-treated condition suitable for tooling service; final hardness is achieved via the supplier’s standard quench-and-temper or appropriate hardening practice depending on the selected grade. Expect a trade-off: higher hardness improves resistance to surface wear, while excessive hardening can reduce toughness under shock loads—so the correct grade and heat-treatment state should be matched to the punch force and vibration profile.
Sizing & Selection Guide+
Select the fixing key dimensions to match your punch holder’s screw-center configuration and the required clamp plate thickness.
- Choose the screw size specification: use the variant specified for M4, M5, or M6 center holes (e.g., “Center hole for M4 screws / M5 / M6” as applicable).
- Match head/plate thickness T: ensure the head thickness/plate thickness aligns with your tooling stack-up using T = 3 mm or 4.5 mm.
During assembly, the through-hole must align concentrically with the punch’s screw axis to prevent eccentric loading that can encourage punch drift. Use the specified center-hole option to maintain correct fit between screw and key.
Because the provided data specifies discrete thickness and screw-size variants, treat these dimensions as configurable via the selected spec; keep other layout features (rectangular form and through-hole centering) consistent with your keyed punch interface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which screw-size variant (M4, M5, or M6) should I select for a punch with a rectangular through-hole fixing interface?+
Choose the fixing key specification that matches your punch’s center hole for M4, center hole for M5, or center hole for M6. This ensures concentric alignment between the screw axis and the key through-hole.
Using the wrong screw-size variant can cause eccentric clamping and lead to reduced punch stability.
What head/plate thickness (T) options are available, and how do they affect clamp stack-up?+
The product lists discrete thickness options: T = 3 mm and T = 4.5 mm. Select the thickness that matches your punch holder and retainer stack-up so the key can seat correctly under tightening.
If thickness is mismatched, you may not achieve full clamp engagement or may over-constrain the assembly.
Between SKS3 and S45C, which grade is more appropriate for wear-resistant punch clamping components?+
This series provides SKS3 or S45C steel options. In general tooling practice, SKS3 is selected when higher hardness and wear resistance are beneficial, while S45C is chosen for dependable strength and machinability.
The optimal choice depends on tightening cycles, vibration levels, and expected rubbing at the clamping surfaces.
How does the rectangular through-hole fixing-key design improve punch alignment stability?+
The rectangular geometry with a centered through hole helps maintain stable positioning during machining and press operation. This reduces movement in keyed punch systems, which supports more repeatable results.
Combined with the correct screw-size variant, it helps limit misalignment-driven wear and premature punch failures.
Are these fixing keys intended only for keyed punch systems with key grooves?+
Yes. The category description indicates they are specifically for punches with key grooves and use a rectangular through-hole fixing format.
They are intended to clamp punches securely and help prevent misalignment in keyed systems.
Need Custom Specifications?
Our engineering team can help with custom configurations, material selection, and volume pricing.





