what are the different types of allen wrenches

Types of Allen Wrenches

• L-Style. This is the most basic form of Allen wrench. Using the longer side allows you to reach down to where the bolt...
• Ball Hex. These Allen wrenches have a spherical shape at the end, which gives them better grip in a screw head that’s...
• T-Handle. Rather than having one short-side handle only, this design includes two. You can use your...

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What are some substitutes for an allen wrench?

Wrenches Similar to Allen Wrenches

• Hex Wrench of Hex Key Wrench. A hex wrench is basically the same thing as an Allen wrench and works the exact same way but is used when the screw ...
• Torx Key
• Torque Wrench. ...
• Things Around the House. ...
• In Your Kitchen. ...
• Screwdrivers. ...
• Nuts and Bolts. ...
• Open Ended Wrench or Combination Wrench. ...
• Socket Wrench or Ratchet Wrench. ...
• Impact Wrench. ...

More items...

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.

What tool to use in place of an allen wrench?

• Cut a slot into the screw head.
• Place a screwdriver in the slot and tap with a hammer in the counter-clockwise sense to loosen the bolt.
• Unscrew the bolt with the driver.

Is a Torx the same as an allen wrench?

Torx is a registered trademark of CamCar, a division of Textron, while Allen keys were developed by the Allen Manufacturing Company of Hartford, Connecticut. These two tools, along with conventional Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers, all perform the same basic function of fastening bolts and driving screws into materials for a tight fit.

How many types of Allen wrenches are there?

14 Different Types of Allen Wrenches.

What is the difference between an Allen wrench and a hex key?

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 there different sized allen wrenches?

Adding to our precision sizes, the common SAE Allen wrench sizes are 1/16″, 5/64″, 3/32″, 7/64″, 1/8″, 9/64″, 5/32″, 3/16″, 7/32″, 1/4″, 5/16 “, & 3/8″.

What is the classification of Allen wrench?

A hex key (also, Allen key and Allen wrench) is a simple driver for bolts or screws that have heads with internal hexagonal recesses (sockets).

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.

What's the difference between imperial and metric Allen keys?

Lastly, there's one other added benefit to having both SAE & metric hex keys. 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....SAE Substitutes for MM.Imperial Hex KeyMetric Hex Size3/8″10 mm9 more rows•Nov 23, 2018

How do I know what size Allen wrench I need?

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.

Are there metric and SAE Allen wrenches?

Allen Wrench Set (36 Pack - Metric & SAE Wrenches) Hex Key with Ball End & Short Arm.

What is the standard allen key size?

Allen Keys - ImperialHex sizeLength long armLength short arm1/16 inch91 mm15 mm5/64 inch100 mm16 mm3/32 inch112 mm18 mm7/64 inch119 mm19 mm9 more rows

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.

What is a square Allen wrench called?

That's called a "Robertson" bit. I don't know that they make them as separate wrenches, but they usually make them as bits in different sizes to go into screwdrivers or drills. Hope that helps. 1.

Why are they called Allen wrenches?

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 are some other names for Allen Wrenches?

There are several terms for the same tool, including Allen Key, Hex Key, and Hex Wrench. Allen is the brand that originally produced hexagonal wren...

Which is the best size for Allen Keys?

In essence, there is no best size for tools such as these. The size that you should go for depends entirely upon what the requirement of the task a...

How to keep the hex wrenches safe?

Initially, it is recommended that you carry your wrenches in a wrench holder that can keep your tools organized and safe. Moreover, you should prot...

What is an Allen socket wrench?

Used to turn a fastener, an Allen socket wrench has a hollow cylinder that is attached to the end of the handle. And, it’s fitted over bolts and buts to loosen or tighten them.

What is a double end Allen wrench?

It’s a double-ended tool that has a box-end on one side and an open-end on the other. The box-end comprises a closed ring with different diameters on the inside, depending on the Allen wrench’s size.

What is a T handle wrench?

Popularly used in the motorsport industry, T-handle styles allow you to spin the wrench in a jiffy while ushering in, sufficient leverage in common usage. The Capri Sliding Hex Wrench allows it to slide into a position that creates an L-shaped tool. T-Handle wrenches are gaining popularity in bike mechanics.

What is a Crowfoot wrench?

Crowfoot wrenches are useful in valve adjustments, different fittings such as clutch or brake, power steering, and abs modulators. Mechanics in the aviary department use this type of wrench nearly daily. And, they are used with ratchets or torque wrench handles.

What is a hex fastener?

Hex fasteners are increasingly popular in various mechanical devices and equipment such as assemble-it-yourself furniture, motor cycle engines, and bicycles. With that being said, this guide will walk you through the ins and outs of Allen wrenches, including the types and uses, to permit an informed decision.

When was Allen wrench invented?

The first patented use of Allen wrenches dates back to the early 1900s when W.G Allen showcased a safety set of wrenches to the public. Moreover, it was in 1910 that the wrench was first manufactured on a commercial level. As a result, the term ‘Allen wrench’ was coined.

Is a box end Allen wrench the same as a ratchet?

While wrenches and ratchets are strikingly similar in functionality (loosening and tightening fasteners), various scenarios call for the use of one over the other. For instance, box-end Allen wrenches are a great alternative to loosen stuck fasteners.

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 ratcheting hex?

Ratcheting Hex drivers provide better speed in comparison to the traditional Allen wrenches. These tools are more dynamic, as they are used with screwdriver bits and even sockets. They are available in different varieties. The bits of Ratcheting Hex Drivers can be used in an electric drill driver.

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.

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.

When did the hexagonal screwdriver come out?

The concept of a hexagonal-shaped screwdriver came in the mid-to-late 1800s and became popular. Now they are available in different sizes. To learn more about Hex keys or Allen Keys and their benefits, read this blog.

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 Are the Most Common Types of Allen Keys?

There are several types of wrenches, tailored to meet certain needs and requirements, but here are the ones that are the most commonly utilized:

What Are the Different Sizes of Allen Keys That You Can Go For?

While purchasing an Allen wrench, it is extremely important to understand the different sizes that you can opt for, in order to decide which one caters to your requirements. Different sizes can be used for different tasks and you should be able to decide which size would work for the task at hand. The following are the sizes that you can opt for:

Are Hex Wrenches Durable?

Hex wrenches are really easy to find at any hardware store because they’re easy to produce and use. Inherently, hex wrenches are supposed to be durable and robust, given the nature of the tasks that you’ll be performing with them.

What Are the Things to Look Out for While Purchasing a Hex Wrench?

Here are the things that you should look out for, while purchasing the products that suit your needs.

Texas Best Folding Metric and SAE Hex Keys

This product by the Texas Best Store is one of the top ones that you can get. This is a set of 17 folding keys that feature 17 different sizes, ensuring that you’ve got the right size for every equipment and task. It is made of high-grade alloy steel and features a black finish, ensuring that the product is durable and that it lasts long.

Amazon Basics Hex Key Allen Wrench Set

The set of Allen keys by Amazon basics is certainly amongst the best options out there. This product features a set to 26 keys, including all of the standard and metric sizes. These tools are made out of chrome-vanadium steel and feature black oxide finish, ensuring maximum strength and durability.

EPAuto Allen Key Set

The set of hex keys by the EPAUTO store is a great option if you’re looking for something that meets your needs. This product features a set of 30 hex keys and a storage case to keep them safe and organized.

What material is used for Allen keys?

Material options – Alloy steel is a common material used for Allen™ keys, but stainless steel is also available as a material choice. In addition, there are different finish options available, the most common being black oxide but chrome options exist as well.

What is an Allen key?

Allen™ wrenches or Allen™ keys are generally available in several different styles or types. The most common Allen™ wrench type is the one mentioned earlier – the L-shaped hex key – but there are other variations that incorporate different handle designs, utilize different materials, or add special features. A summary of the most common Allen™ ...

What is a hexagonal socket head screw?

Fasteners come in a wide variety of types, sizes, and materials. Among the most useful fasteners are ones that are equipped with a hexagonal-shaped recess in the head of the fastener. These types of fasteners are known as hexagonal socket head screws or Allen™ screws, a nod to the man who patented the idea of a fastener ...

What is ball end Allen key?

Some ball-end Allen™ keys feature a ball at one end of the driver and a shorter driver that extends off the handle with a standard hex head. Others can use a ball at both ends of the tool or only have a single driver with a handle.

Can you use a wrench with a high torque socket?

Generally, these types of wrenches are not recommended for use in high torque applications as the engagement with the fastener when using the ball end is reduced. Applying excessive torque can strip the hex surfaces of the socket or snap the ball off the wrench. Lengths are also available as long and short.

Is Allen key lighter?

This makes it easier to loosen or tighten these fasteners and can make it less likely to strip or damage a fastener while loosening or tightening. Size and weight – Allen™ keys tend to be smaller and lighter than the equivalent tools used to apply other fastener types, making them easier to carry.

Can a fastener be recessed?

As a result, a lower profile can be maintained for fasteners, and in some cases, the fastener can be recessed below the surface of the assembly without limiting the ability to remove the fastener. This capability provides a cleaner appearance, offers greater clearance, and protects the fastener from accidental damage.

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.