Hex key
A hex key, Allen key, or Allen wrench is a tool of hexagonal cross-section used to drive bolts and screws that have a hexagonal socket in the head (internal-wrenching hexagon drive). The Allen name is a registered trademark, originated by the Allen Manufacturing Company of Hartford, Conn…
What is an allen key and how is it used?
Hex keys are another type of allen key and are used for many of the same purposes as L-wrenches. They have a hexagonal shaft that is used to reach bolts that are hard to get at with other wrenches – such as those on an engine or in furniture parts. They look similar to L-wrenches, but have shorter shafts and a smaller hexagonal socket.
What size Allen key do I Need?
This is the standard Allen key and is easily found anywhere. Due to its L-shape, it can reach into tight spots and provide control when needed. If you are looking to get only one set, this would be a perfect option. There are many choices available in the market, though a 1.5-10mm a good value purchase.
What is a hexagonal Allen key?
This type of allen key has a shaft similar to lever handle wrenches, but the hexagonal shaped tip is larger and rounder, with an opening on the end. This makes it easier to rotate bolts that are too small for a hexagonal socket, or when the bolt head is covered by a plate.
What kind of Allen wrenches should I use?
I prefer using Allen wrenches that are individually packed in some kind of snap-closed storage case. With this set, it is easier to lose an individual wrench, but it’s a fair trade-off to have full and easy access to each end of all the wrenches.
How do you tighten a screw with an Allen key?
Using the traditional L-shaped Allen wrench, the user puts one of the two ends into the hex-headed screw or bolt and turns the wrench clockwise to tighten and counterclockwise to loosen. The L-shaped wrench does have the advantage of providing leverage for a lot of torque.
Which way do I open my Allen key?
When you need to use the Allen wrench, stick the short end of the L shape into the bolt head and press down on the longer side of the L to turn the bolt. Of course, the Allen wrench will only fit in a hex bolt (a bolt with six sides), so don't try using the Allen wrench to screw in any other type of fastener.
What do I do if my Allen key won't turn?
2:0513:47remove rounded hex key bolts 8 different ways - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnother thing you can do is apply some heat to it or if possible apply some heat to the surrounding.MoreAnother thing you can do is apply some heat to it or if possible apply some heat to the surrounding. Area obviously this is not always possible. But if it is this can really loosen the bond.
What is 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.
Why do some Allen keys have a ball end?
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.
How do you unscrew a tight Allen screw?
2:577:28How to Remove Tight Hex (Allen) Bolts Without Rounding ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd you could get on the top of the bolt head. And you know wrap on the the punch to loosen these upMoreAnd you could get on the top of the bolt head. And you know wrap on the the punch to loosen these up that this is really a cool tip I learned this back in the old days working on motorcycles.
How do you unscrew a hex screw that won't budge?
2:235:03How to Remove Damaged or Stuck Hex Hole Plugs, Bolts and ScrewsYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd you need to use the chisel to come in right on the edge. And hammer hammered. So it rotates in aMoreAnd you need to use the chisel to come in right on the edge. And hammer hammered. So it rotates in a counterclockwise rotation. You keep hammering hammering.
Which way do you unscrew a bolt?
Most standard screws, bolts or nuts are unscrewed by turning them anti-clockwise, as shown in the image below. A good way to remember this is to try and commit to memory the phrase that all junior mechanics learn – righty tighty, lefty loosey.
Are all Allen keys the same?
Hex keys come in a variety of different sizes, which are measured by across-flats (AF). This is essentially the distance between the two opposite ends of the flat side. It's important to choose the right size hex key, as attempting to use one that's too big may damage the fastener or tool.
Are there different types of Allen keys?
Different Types of Hex KeysL-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.More items...•
Why do some technicians use Allen keys instead of self-tapping screws to fasten joints?
Why do some technicians use Allen keys instead of self-tapping screws to fasten joint? … To summarize, a hex key is a tool having a hexagonal socket that is used to drive nuts and screws. They are easier to use and less prone to strip than their Phillip's head equivalent since they have six driving points.
What is an Allen wrench?
But don’t be fooled by its humble appearance, the Allen wrench is an effective hand tool that can produce an incredible amount of torque. In fact, no toolkit is complete without a set of Allen wrenches. Allen wrenches, which are also called hex-key wrenches or hex keys, have a hexagonal cross section to fit various machine screws ...
What is a folding Allen wrench?
Folding Allen wrenches come in a convenient, compact housing that’s similar to a pocketknife. The individual wrenches fold out and the housing acts as a handle for increased torque. However, because the wrenches are permanently attached, you’re limited in some tight-space situations.
What type of Allen wrench is used for hex screws?
Finally there’s one more type of Allen wrench worth mentioning: T-handle Allen wrenches. These are popular with mechanics and technicians that work with hex screws all the time. Each wrench is affixed to a large handle that provides both comfort and enhanced power for really amping up the torque.
What is a hex key?
Allen wrenches, which are also called hex-key wrenches or hex keys, have a hexagonal cross section to fit various machine screws and set screws that have hexagonal-shaped recessed holes. Hex fasteners are common in all sorts mechanical equipment and devices, including bicycles, motorcycle engines, and assemble-it-yourself furniture (aka Ikea).
How many points of contact does an Allen wrench have?
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. Most DIY furniture kits come with an Allen wrench that fits the included hex screws.
What is a hex fastener?
On motorcycles, hex fasteners allow an engine cover to be mounted flush to the engine case without protruding bolt heads. Most motors and machines, including anything with belts and pulleys, have tiny setscrews that only accept Allen wrenches.
Can you store two Allen wrenches?
One challenge of owning two entire sets of Allen wrenches is how to store them so that they’re neatly organized and readily accessible. Fortunately, Allen wrenches come in several different styles to suit most users’ needs. Some wrenches come attached to a metal split ring, which keeps all the wrenches linked together, but makes it awkward to use an individual wrench in tight spaces, unless you first detach the wrench from the ring.
L-wrench
The L-wrench or “L-shaped” wrench is the most popular and common type of Allen key. It is made out of steel with an alloy steel shaft, and has a hexagonal socket on one end.
L-handle
This type of allen key has a longer shaft than regular L-wrenches or hex keys and are often used for rotating furniture construction parts that have hexagonal sockets on them.
Cross head
The cross head type of allen key has a shaft that is straight and flat, with pointed ends at either end. This type is useful for trimming down bolts, fixing small parts and also in places where space is limited.
Stud and bolt head
The stud and bolt head type of allen key has a similar design to the cross head, but with an added T-shaped shaft which is used to hold fasteners in place when applying nuts or bolts – such as on bicycle pedals. The main advantage of this tool is that it can be easily stored for future use.
T Handle
This type of allen key has a shaft with a T-shaped design – with hexagonal bits that can be used to tighten or loosen bolts. It is also useful for gaining leverage when trying to unscrew or screw in hard to reach spaces.
Angle head
This type of key has an L-shaped shaft with ridges or rims on the inside of the hexagonal bits, forming an angle. The advantage of this is that it can make it easier to grip bolts in hard to reach spaces or when there is little room for turning.
Torx key
The Torx key has a six pointed star-shaped head – which looks like the letter T.
Why use Allen key?
As electronics are becoming more and more compact in size, Allen keys are being used to support their size. Computers and large television screens are held together with these screws from the backside. You can buy torque wrenches for this purpose. They are the main items in every electrician’s toolbox.
How to use a long arm key?
These key sets are very affordable and can be kept in a house or car for convenience. To use the long arm, you have to twist and pull the key from retaining clip. To replace it, you need to push and twist the key.
What wrenches are used for a motorcycle?
T-handle Hex wrenches are recommended for cars and motorcycles repair. Tools– Apart from other uses, Allen keys can also be helpful in maintaining and repairing heavy tools and machinery. Drill bits rely on it to secure the bit into place.
What is Allen screws?
Furniture Repairs – Allen screws are an essential piece of hardware for securing furniture at its place. It allows assembling the furniture without adding any unnecessary bulk pieces.
What is a 951 wrench?
Beta 951 wrenches allow it to slide into a position to create an L-shaped tool. These are quickly becoming popular among bike mechanics.
Can you use Allen key for car?
Cars and Motorcycles – You would need an Allen key set for the proper maintenance of your car.
Can you lose a folding hex wrench?
Unlike other Allen keys, it is nearly impossible to lose a folding Hex wrench, as they are enclosed in the handle. They are normally folded out at 90 degrees from the storage handle to give maximum torque.
How do you use an Allen key instead?
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.
How do I make my Allen key easier?
Start by securing the hex key wrench in a vise and cutting off the shorter end of the wrench with a hacksaw or grinder. Chuck the straight piece of wren ch in a drill and set the torque on the lowest setting, so it will slip instead of damaging the piece or fastener.
What are Allen wrenches 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.
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.
Why technicians use Allen keys to fasten joints?
There are many benefits for the use of the screws and Allen keys: They are economic and easier to produce. Their lever arch mechanisms allows you to apply increased tightening torque. The key does not risk to get out from screw. The Allen screw may be inserted using simple the key.
How many sides does an Allen key 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.
How do you remove a bolt without Allen key?
How to Remove Allen Head Screws Without an Allen Head Screwdriver Try to find a standard screwdriver that fits snugly between two of the points of the screw. It should fit with no wiggle room. Get your hacksaw. Put a small toothed blade on the saw. Use a standard screwdriver that fits the groove you just made snugly.
