keeper

(1) A block, pin, or spool used to retain the stripper plate or pad for the designed range of travel. (2) A block used to retain cams.

kellering

See contouring.

kellering aid

A model, skin, cast, or template used on a hydro-tel or keller for the tracer to follow.

kelly screws

See chicago screw.

key

(1) (External) A block partially mounted in a pocket at the perimeter of a die member to locate, add support, and/or back up that die member.  It is accessible without removing the die member. (2) (Internal) A block mounted in mating pockets between two die members to locate and/or add support to those die members.  It is not accessible without removing the die members.

kicker

See ejector.

kidney

A bulge outside of the finish form area on a draw punch or cavity to take up loose metal or to help control the draw process.  Also called bologna or sausage.

kirksite

Trade name of a zinc base alloy used principally in low production dies.

kiss off

The area of two mating surfaces of a mold that determines the parting line.

knockout

A mechanism for releasing workpieces from a die.

knock-out

See ejector.

knockout mark

A small protrusion, such as a button or ring of flash, resulting from depression of the knockout pin from the forging pressure or the entrance of metal between the knockout pin and the die.

knockout pin

A power-operated plunger installed in a die to aid removal of the finished forging.