3D Printing Keys

[metroid9824]

I've been experimenting with different CAD files of keys profiles, and I would like to begin to send them off to Shapeways to have them made. The least expensive metal to have them printed on is Stainless Steel. Is stainless steel an appropriate metal for a key? I've read that since steel is harder than than the metal used in pins that it could damage the lock. What are your opinions on this?

[PowerHaus930]

In my opinion I would think that if the pins are brass or any metal that is softer than the steel key the pins will get worn down over time. Depending on how often the lock is used it could take a week or it could take 10 years but eventually the pins will become so worn that the key will no longer function. Some locks come with steel pins but they may wear down too depending on the type of steel the pins are made from. When there is friction between two objects the softer material will wear down first. Again this is just my opinion but I am curious as to what other more knowledgeable people might have to say.

[GWiens2001]

If you sand the key ramps the same way you would sand your picks, then the wear would be greatly reduced. I do that on a lot of my impressioned keys.

Gordon

[Thanshin]

Have you thought on using the printed key as a negative for a mold?

Aluminum is easy to melt and works as key material.

[WestCoastPicks]

As stated above, you want a key softer than the pins and wards. You don't want the lock to be the thing that wears away.

Not sure how long a plastic key would last, but I have seen people do it. Depending on the material you could have a 1 - 2 time use key. might be handy for some situations.

I think ABS is the hardest plastic u can print, always keep a spare on you cause it will wear out kinda fast. But you can always print another one. I should get a 3d printer one of these days. So many fun things you can do with them.

[dll932]

Delrin is a machinable plastic but you can't 3d print it...yet.