What size is an allen wrench?
This is a handy tool also known as a network wrench. These Allen wrenches are available in sizes of 200mm, 300mm, and 250mm. These tools are perfect for loosening or tightening angled nuts or screws.
What is Allen wrench famous for?
Types of Hex Key
- L-Style Hex Wrench. The most common model of Hex key or Allen wrench is L style. ...
- P-Handle Hex Wrench. The P handle Allen wrench is very popular, especially for professional work; it looks a lot like a big L shape, but it has a grip to ...
- T-Handle Allen Wrench. ...
- Folding Hex Key. ...
What are Allen wrenches used for?
So all these different names, reference the same thing, the Allen wrench. Allen wrenches are mostly used for small industrial products, musical instruments, automotive engines, and consumer electronics. They are also used in furniture assembly and for putting together some children’s toys.
Is a hex key and an allen wrench the same thing?
Hex keys and allen wrenches are essentially the same tools. The "key" end of allen keys is a hexagon, or six-sided, shape. Many items requiring assembly, including some furniture, certain children's wagons and other gear, use hex head screws to secure matching parts together.
Are there metric size allen wrenches?
In addition to the precision sizes mentioned above, the common metric Allen wrench sizes are 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, 5.5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, & 10 mm. Of these sizes, some of the more popular ones are 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm, & 10 mm.
Are Allen keys metric or imperial?
Imperial vs metric hex keys Note, too, that hex keys and Allen wrenches are often sold in both metric and imperial (or SAE) versions, depending on the brand, supplier and origin/purchase location.
How can you tell the difference between a metric and standard Allen wrench?
The standard wrench uses the imperial system, and its units are in inches and incorporate fractions. On the other hand, the metric wrench uses the international system of units, and the measurements are in millimeters. Also, the numbers are whole, making interpretation an effortless process.
Are bike Allen wrenches metric?
The bike industry is metric. For home use, a full set of metric allen wrenches is great. For bringing with you, there are a lot of multi-tools that will fit in your pocket and provide all the help you need on the road.
Are metric and SAE Allen wrenches interchangeable?
Metric to Imperial for Allen Keys Similar to the metric hex keys, the SAE hex wrenches don't always have a perfect substitute as seen for SAE size 3/16″. Thus, we recommend that those with only a metric Allen wrench set add a separate SAE hex key set to their stable.
Is there a 2.25 mm Allen wrench?
Designed for the miniature fasteners this basic aluminum handle comes with a 2.25mm hex nut wrench #29212. The hex wrench is for hex nuts that measure 2.25mm across the flats of the hex material or across the Star corners.
How do I know if my wrench is metric?
2:294:27Metric vs Standard, Imperial or SAE - Wrenches, Sockets, Bolt Size Chart ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf it has a number like 6 or 8.8 its metric this SAE construction bolt fits a half inch wrench. It'sMoreIf it has a number like 6 or 8.8 its metric this SAE construction bolt fits a half inch wrench. It's a little loose in the 13 millimeter.
How do you know if its metric or standard?
Metric fasteners are measured by length and pitch, or the distance between threads. So the systems are opposite in a way: The higher the TPI in a standard bolt, the finer the threads because there's more squeezed into a set space. The greater the pitch on metric fasteners, the more distance between threads.
Are Hex and Allen the same?
Nowadays, there are many instruments to choose from. 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.
Are all bike parts metric?
On one bicycle, you will see both the metric and SAE system. Most threading is metric, but not all. Axles on most bikes will use a 9mm threading for the front axle, and 10mm for the rear axle. Bottom brackets are commonly 1.375 inch with thread pitch of 24 threads per inch.
What size Allen wrench do I need for my bike?
The common sizes used are 4mm, 5mm and 8mm. Seatpost, Stem, Steerer Tube varies between 4mm or 5mm depending on brands. As 8mm are used to tighten the most pedals onto the crank arm. You can either use the 8mm allen keys from the set or purchase an individual 8mm pedal wrench as shown in the photo below.
Are bike parts metric or imperial?
Most components are measured in metric units, except for mountain bike wheels.
Why are Allen wrenches less common than metric?
Reason being is that regular Imperial hex key sizes have a bit more coverage with the smaller sizes. Thus, most of the uncommon sizes are on the larger end of the spectrum. Chances are, you’ll never need to know these.
What is hand tool essentials?
Hand Tool Essentials isn’t just another DIY woodworking blog. We help everyday people bring superior craftsmanship to their home workshop. That is, our goal is to help you craft like a master woodworker. All of our tool charts & home improvement articles have been optimized for viewing on your phone while out on the job.
Do allan wrenches have metric or SAE?
If you’re looking for a list of every common Allen wrench size, you’ve found it. Our chart features all the regular-sized Allen wrenches for both SAE & metric. While large-sized Allen wrenches do exist, they are only used in a very specialized applications. Thus, sticking to the above list will suffice for even professional contractors & builders. At a first glance, the chart looks like it might be missing a few sizes. However, the “missing” sizes are rarely seen if they exist at all.
What size Allen wrench is used for SAE?
Similar to the metric hex keys, the SAE hex wrenches don’t always have a perfect substitute as seen for SAE size 3/16″. Thus, we recommend that those with only a metric Allen wrench set add a separate SAE hex key set to their stable.
What size wrench to use for SAE hex?
In the United States, larger metric half sizes like 6.5 mm aren’t standard in most hex key sets. However, the 1/4″ SAE hex wrench will likely work in place of a 6.5 mm wrench.
What is hand tool essentials?
Hand Tool Essentials isn’t just another DIY woodworking blog. We help everyday people bring superior craftsmanship to their home workshop. That is, our goal is to help you craft like a master woodworker. All of our tool charts & home improvement articles have been optimized for viewing on your phone while out on the job.
Is there a substitute for metric key?
As you’ll notice, there isn’t always a perfect substitute. For instance, Metric size 9 mm doesn’t have an imperial counterpart. In a case like this, you’re only option is to just upgrade to a separate metric hex key set. With more and more hardware being produced internationally, both SAE and metric hex key sets will have a place in your tool set.
What is an Allen wrench?
Allen wrenches are versatile tools that are designed to work with Allen head screws. These screws are widely used in many applications ranging from new construction projects to assembling modular furniture ordered from your favorite store. Because there are so many valuable applications for Allen head screws, it follows that there are many Allen wrench designs, sizes, and styles to make working with Allen head screws easier.
What is a T handle Allen key?
This Allen key variety features a comfortable handle at the top of the wrench. The handle is ideal for adding power and torque to your hex screws. The T-Handle Allen key comes in several sizes and is available as both a standard or a metric Allen wrench.
What is a fold up Allen key?
If you are looking for a complete Allen wrench set and want to have options, a fold-up Allen key is a great tool to keep in your arsenal. This tool is the “Swiss army knife” of the hex wrench family and will allow you to have just about any size Allen key at your disposal. Each small Allen key neatly folds into itself, making this is portable and easy Allen wrench set to tote around.
What is a short arm hex key?
Like the long arm hex key, the short arm L-shaped hex key is a standard for furniture assembly. This tool is very similar to the long arm but has a shorter arm length. Although the shortened length limits the amount of power and torque you can achieve when tightening hex screws, the shorter arm length is advantageous when reaching into confined and tight spaces.
When was the Allen wrench invented?
The Allen wrench dates back to the mid 1900s. It became the standard name for what had previously been called a hex key. The Allen Manufacturing Company created a set of quality hexagonal wrenches and produced them at a rapid pace.
What is the Allen key size chart?
Most manufacturers will publish an Allen key size chart. An Allen key size chart often comes with furniture you need to build on your own, such as baby cribs, outdoor swings or computer desks. Hold on to it or post it somewhere in the garage where you can hold up the key or socket screw head to the physical picture.
Do Allen wrenches come with divots?
Unfortunately, screws with divots don't come with the size of Allen wrench they require stamped conveniently on the topside or side of the screw. This makes finding the correct-fitting Allen wrench a bit of a challenge. If you truly aren't sure, you will have to make a good guess.
Do you need metric Allen wrenches?
If you are working on a project that has shipped from another country, you may need to use a metric set of Allen wrenches.
Can you strip an Allen wrench?
Always make sure that each side of the Allen wrench is firmly and properly aligned before you begin to tighten or loosen a bolt. Otherwise, you can strip the bolt head or damage the wrench.
Can hex keys damage sockets?
While Allen wrenches and hex keys seem durable enough, they can cause damage if you use the wrong size on a socket screw head. The smaller size of Allen wrench can easily strip a hex bolt or be stripped down itself. Before placing the hex key into the bolt, make sure the head is clean of dirt and debris.
How are Allen wrenches measured?
Sizing. Hex keys are measured across-flats (AF), which is the distance between two opposite (parallel) sides of the hexagon.
What can I use instead of Allen key?
Sometimes you can use small types of flat headed screwdrivers as an allen wrench by putting the end in the socket so that the 2 edges of the screwdriver work as leverage in the hole to turn it. A wider socket on the bolt or nut, use a wider flathead screwdriver.
What size Allen keys do you need for a bike?
The common sizes used are 4mm, 5mm and 8mm. Seatpost, Stem, Steerer Tube varies between 4mm or 5mm depending on brands. As 8mm are used to tighten the most pedals onto the crank arm. You can either use the 8mm allen keys from the set or purchase an individual 8mm pedal wrench as shown in the photo below.
Do Allen keys come in metric?
Allen wrenches come in both SAE fractional-inch sizes and in metric sizes.
Are hex bits and Allen keys the same?
They are available in many different sizes, though they all have the same hexagonal-shaped tip. To learn more about hex keys and the benefits they offer, keep reading.
Why do Allen keys have a ball end?
When you buy a hex key (Allen wrench) set, get them with ball ends. The advantage is that their ball end make it easier to slide the wrench into the receiving slot. You can reach in at an angle and feel your way to the needed drop-in position faster.
Is there a 2.25 mm allen wrench?
Designed for the miniature fasteners this basic aluminum handle comes with a 2.25mm hex nut wrench #29212. The hex wrench is for hex nuts that measure 2.25mm across the flats of the hex material or across the Star corners. Please note we also carry wrenches for 2.0mm and 2.5mm hex material.
What is a Standard Wrench?
The standard wrench uses the imperial measuring system; thus, it is no surprise that the naming also goes by the imperial wrench. Your guess is right, the imperial measuring system came from the English units, officially launched in 1826, with prominent use in the British Empire.
What is a Metric Wrench?
On the other side, we look at the metric wrench. A defining factor of the metric wrench is its size, which is in millimeters and whole numbers. It follows the International System of Units, also known as SI. As a more common measuring device, you find it in most parts of the world due to the measuring system it uses.
Final Words
As a mechanic, there are utilities you cannot afford to miss, such as the wrench. It is a turning tool, which you use to loosen, turn and hold bolts and nuts. The wrenches use different measuring systems, as we can see in the imperial vs. metric wrenches discussion.