Crossword Genius

Key operators may strike against it (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

platen

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'key' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe you can see a link between them that I don't see?

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for platen that I've seen before include "Roller against which typewriter keys strike - ten lap (anag)" , "One working in the press" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail and The Telegraph.
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