An Allen key or Allen wrench is also known as Hex key. This is a small handheld tool used for turning bolts and screws which have hexagonal sockets .
Is an Allen wrench a screwdriver?
Most importantly Allen wrenches have six driving points of contact , so they're easier to use and much less likely to strip or slip (known as cam out) than Phillips or slotted screwdrivers. ... Fortunately, Allen wrenches come in several different styles to suit most users' needs.
How many sides does an Allen wrench have?
Alone, the basic Allen wrench has six sides , which allow for better grip when turning a bolt. That means the basic Allen wrench can only be used on hex bolts, as they have six sides themselves. However, you can buy socket sets that allow you to add different types of heads on the Allen wrench.
What are Allen wrench bits called?
A hex key (also, Allen key and Allen wrench) is a simple driver for screws that have heads with internal hexagonal recesses (sockets). Hex keys are formed from a single piece of hard steel hexagonal rod having blunt ends that fit snugly into similarly-shaped screw sockets.
What are some of the most common uses for an Allen wrench hex key?
Hex keys, commonly known as Allen keys/wrenches in the UK and various other countries, are a very simple hand tool of the general spanner and socket family, used for tightening and loosening hexagonal bolts and other compatible fasteners .
What is the difference between an Allen wrench and a hex key?
Some call it a hex key, others – an Allen wrench. ... This article is aimed to help you figure out the difference between an Allen wrench and a hex key. The short answer is “there is no difference” . Really, these two names can be used interchangeably.
Who uses an Allen wrench?
A hex key, also known as an Allen key or Allen wrench, is a small handheld tool that's used for for driving bolts and screws with a hexagonal socket . They are available in many different sizes, though they all have the same hexagonal-shaped tip.
What is a 6 sided wrench called?
WRENCH TYPE: Hex-Key Wrench
Also called Allen wrenches (although “Allen” actually refers to specific brand known for making hex-key wrenches), these short six-sided bars of steel are characteristically L-shaped, with one side shorter than the other.
Why is it called Allen wrench?
Originally named Allen Manufacturing Company, the business produced hexagonal set screws and wrenches to fasten them. The terms “Allen wrench” (American English) and “Allen key” (British English) are derived from the Allen brand name and refer to the generic product category “hex keys” .
What does a Allen wrench look like?
An Allen wrench is one of the simplest wrenches to use. The Allen wrench itself is a small L-shaped wrench with six sides. If you look at a cross-section of the Allen wrench, it looks like a hexagon . Since the Allen wrench has such a specific shape, it can only be used with items especially designed for it.
What is the smallest Allen key?
Sizes contained in the set are 0.71mm , 0.89mm (the two smallest hex keys in this set are metric) – then 1.27mm (0.05′′), 1/16′′; (1.59mm), 5/64′′ (1.98mm), 3/32′′ (2.38mm) and 7/64′′ (2.79mm). Supplied in a handy plastic holder.
Are there different types of Allen keys?
- L-Style Allen Wrenches. This is the standard Allen key and is easily found anywhere. ...
- T-Handle. This is a popular tool, mostly used in motorsport applications. ...
- P-Handle. ...
- Folding Hex Key. ...
- Ratcheting Drivers. ...
- Torque Wrench. ...
- Allen Screwdriver. ...
- Ball Hex Sets.
How many sides does a hex bolt have?
What are Hex Bolts? Many screws and bolts are identified by their drive style. Unlike the ‘standard' Phillips or Slotted drive, hex bolts are distinct because of their six-sided (hexagonal) heads. This style of bolt is the industry standard for fasteners with forged heads.
Can you attach an Allen key to a drill?
Turn those lonely allen wrenches into an entirely new tool by cutting off the branch of the “L” shape and creating a straight hex driver that can fit into the chuck of any power drill, just like a normal drill bit.
Why does a ball end hex wrench?
The ball end makes it easier to slide the key into the receiving slot . It allows you to reach at an offset 30 degree angle so that you can feel your way to the needed position much faster – great for blind or difficult areas to reach or if the bolt or screw is close to an obstruction on one side.
Why do we use Allen keys?
Hex keys, commonly known as Allen keys/wrenches in the UK and various other countries, are a very simple hand tool of the general spanner and socket family, used for tightening and loosening hexagonal bolts and other compatible fasteners .
