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What component of a key machine assists in aligning a key blank for accurate cutting?
Stop Gauge
Keyway
Key Blank Holder
Cutting Arm
The correct answer is: Stop Gauge
The component that assists in aligning a key blank for accurate cutting is the stop gauge. This part of a key machine is designed to position the key blank correctly to ensure that the cutting mechanism performs precise cuts. By having a stop gauge, the locksmith can determine the depth and placement of each cut based on the specifications of the original key or the desired key cuts. This alignment is crucial as it directly affects the fitment and functionality of the newly cut key, ensuring that it operates smoothly in the lock. In contrast, the keyway refers to the specific shape or design cut into a lock that a key must match to operate it correctly, but it doesn’t play a direct role in aligning the key blank during the cutting process. The key blank holder serves to keep the key blank in position while it is being cut but does not provide the precise alignment function that a stop gauge offers. The cutting arm is responsible for making the actual cuts in the key blank but depends on the accurate placement provided by the stop gauge to ensure the cuts are correct and effective.