Kee Lite Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is a Kee Lite structural slip-on pipe fitting?
Answer: Kee Lite structural slip-on pipe fittings are Aluminum pipe fittings, which conform to ASTM A356-T6 and manufactured to the ASTM standard ASTM B108-95. Kee Lite fittings are used in conjunction with Aluminum Schedule 40 or 80 pipe to build structures of unlimited size and scope. Casehardened set screws attach the fittings securely around the pipe. There is no welding, drilling, or bolting required when building with Kee Lite fittings. The only tools required for building Kee Lite structures are a pipe cutter and a standard hex key.

Question: What are Kee Lite fittings used for?
Answer: The most common applications for Kee Lite fittings is hand rail and guard rail, the contours designed into Kee Lite fittings give a smoother appearance and better look than typical non welded systems. Various other pipe-structures such as retail store fixtures, soft contained play systems, awning, fencing, machinery framework, can be economically produced with Kee Lite Fittings.

Question: What type of pipe or tubing can be used with Kee Lite fittings?
Answer: Kee Lite fittings are designed for use with Schedule 40 or 80 aluminum pipe. Kee Lite will also be used with Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 Steel Pipe. (Click here for size chart)

Question: Which sizes of pipe can I use with Kee Lite fittings?
Answer: Most types of Kee Lite fittings are available for nominal pipe sizes 1" (33.7mm OD) and 2" (60.3mm OD). (Click here for our online catalog of the types and sizes available)

Question: What style or types are available?
Answer: The Kee Lite is a product line that is expanding constantly. Please check our updated online catalog for the current availability. (Click here for our online catalog of the types and sizes available)

Question: Will Kee Lite fittings corrode if used outdoors?
Answer: Kee Lite fittings are Aluminum Silicon Magnesium Alloy (A 356-T6) a highly corrosion resistant alloy. If conditions, require the fittings can be anodized for additional corrosion resistance. Kee Lite set screws are treated with our Kee Koat®II finish to resist corrosion. In Salt Spray test the Kee Koat II corrosion resistance was equal to Stainless Steel setscrews in an aluminum fitting. Copies of the salt spray tests available upon request by calling Kee Industrial Products. (716) 896-4949.

Question: Are Kee Lite fittings available with alternative finishes?
Answer: Kee Lite are available anodized and powder coated to your color requirements on a special order basis.

Question: What size hex key is used with Kee Lite fittings?
Answer: Kee Lite fittings for 1" pipe sizes (6) use a 1/4" A.F. (across flat) hex key. Kee Lite fittings for 1-1/4" to 2" pipe sizes (7 to 9) use a 5/16" A.F. hex key. The ability to use a 5/16" hex key makes building a Kee Lite structure easy and fast.

Question: What is the recommended torque for the set screws?
Answer: When constructing with Kee Lite fittings we recommend that you tighten the set screw to 29 lbs./ft. or 39 Nm. This is approximately "hand-tight."

Question: Will the fitting or the setscrew strip tightening to 29 lbs./ft?
Answer: No, the large diameter setscrews and the British Standard Thread used along with the alloy of the fitting give you the correct combination to create a strong mechanical joint between the fitting and the pipe without concern of stripping the threads or slip of the fitting on the pipe.

Question: Does the size of the setscrew matter?
Answer: Yes, the size and style of set screw does matter. The large setscrew with a hardened cup point used in Kee Lite cuts into the pipe and provides a 2000-pound slip load, the highest rated slip load in the industry.

Question: What about the fittings being tampered with?
Answer: Set screw inserts are available to deter tampering with a finished Kee Lite structure.

Question: What quality certifications has Kee Lite attained?
Answer: The Kee Lite manufacturing facilities in Reading, England are certified to ISO 9001.

Question: Is your company involved in developing safety guidelines and regulations for the playground industry?
Answer: Yes, Kee Klamp serves on the ASTM board that develops safety guidelines for the Soft-Contained Play Systems industry.