The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word PLATEN
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
P
L
A
T
E
N
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Key operators may strike against it" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case key operators may strike against it = platen.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does PLATEN mean?
PLATEN noun- The part of a printing press which presses the paper against the type and by which the impression is made.
- The part of a typewriter or printer on which the paper rests to receive an impression.
- The movable table of a planer or other machine tool, on which the work is fastened, and presented to the action of the tool.
- The flat glass surface of a scanner or photocopier on which operators place items to be scanned.