Originally named Allen Manufacturing Company, the business produced hexagonal set screws and wrenches to fasten them. The terms “Allen wrench” and “Allen key” are derived from the Allen brand name and refer to the generic product category “hex keys” .
What are the two types of Allen wrenches?
- 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.
Are allen wrenches and hex wrenches the same?
Are hex and Allen keys the same thing? Although there's always some potential for confusion wherever two different terms are used for the same item, in this case it's pretty straightforward – to all practical intents and purposes, hex keys/wrenches and Allen keys are indeed essentially the same thing .
What can I use instead of an Allen wrench?
For smaller Allen wrench nuts, you could likely use a set of flat-tipped tweezers , or even the flat edge on a pair of finger nail clippers. There are numbers of bathroom items that can be used in such cases, and again it is just about being able to turn or spin this screw, nut, or bolt to get it loose.
What is the difference between Hex and Allen?
Are hex and Allen keys the same thing? Although there's always some potential for confusion wherever two different terms are used for the same item, in this case it's pretty straightforward – to all practical intents and purposes, hex keys/wrenches and Allen keys are indeed essentially the same thing .
Is Torx better than hex?
The Torx design allows for a higher torque to be exerted than a similarly sized conventional hex socket head without damaging the head and/or the tool.
Can you use Torx instead of hex?
We actually don't recommend using your torx wrenches in place of a hex key or Allen wrench. ... With that being said, torx size, T9, won't doesn't really work with any of the SAE hex sizes. However, it's actually a perfect match for metric size, 2.5 mm.
How do I know what size Allen wrench to get?
Most Allen wrenches have the size stamped clearly on the side of the tiny, angled tool . The inch or millimeter size may have rubbed off with use or may be entirely too small to read. In this case, an Allen wrench or hex key chart can make finding the right size for your socket head much easier.
What does an 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.
Do not use the hex driver which is too big for the bolt you are using?
Use a hex driver, shown in Figure 2-10, to loosen and tighten bolts that have a hexagonal (six-sided) head. Hex bolts should not be over-tightened because the threads of the bolts can be stripped. Do not use a hex driver that is too large for the bolt that you are using.
Why does the ball end hex key?
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.
Is Torx better than Allen?
Torx are best for the manufacturer = Less stripping with automatic and power hand tools and easier for automated engagement. But for the owners and service later on not so as good. First of all, most folks have a better assortment of tools to drive hex heads whether they be Allen or normal bolts heads.
What is the point of Torx screws?
Torx screws are typically used in vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, computer systems, hard disk drives and consumer electronics. The unusual star-shaped head makes them far more secure than regular flat-head or cross-head screws and allows higher torque transmission so screws and bolts can be tightened more securely.
Is there a difference between star and Torx?
Today, only the Torx company can use the name Torx, but there are “generics” now which have a physically identical design. The “generics” typically refer to that design as a star bit or head. The “generic” star should be physically identical to the Torx design.
What are Star Allen Keys called?
Torx keys are also commonly known as star keys. Like hexagon allen keys, most torx keys are small enough to be carried in a pocket and enable the user to drive the appropriate fasteners without needing a separate screwdriver or power tool.
