A hex bolt is a type of fastener used to hold two or more objects together. It’s identified by its six-sided head, which is designed to fit into a corresponding six-sided recessed area in another material, so the bolt can be tightened with a wrench.
Hex bolts are typically made of steel, though can also be made from other materials such as stainless steel, brass, bronze, aluminum and more. The design of the head varies depending on the application, but generally the six sides are not equal in length and rounded at the edges.
The back end of the bolt also typically has a corresponding hex nut which is also used to hold the connection together. Hex bolts come in various sizes and lengths so the end user can pick the size and length that best meets their requirements.
How do you read a hex bolt size?
Reading a hex bolt size is relatively easy, and involves determining the bolt’s diameter and the length of the bolt. First, measure the diameter of the shank of the bolt (the part of the bolt between the head and the threads) using calipers or a ruler.
This measurement can be converted to metric or imperial units, depending on the bolt. Once you have the diameter, you will need to measure the length of the bolt, which is simply the distance between the head and the end of the threads.
The overall size of the hex bolt can then be expressed as the diameter, followed by a lowercase ‘x’, followed by the length. For example, a hex bolt measuring 8mm in diameter and 25mm long would have a size of 8×25.
What are six sided bolts called?
Six sided bolts are called hex bolts (or hex screws). They are the most common type of bolts used in construction, due to their durable nature and their ability to fit into most hex-shaped nuts and tapped holes.
Hex bolts feature a hexagonal head with a flat surface that a wrench or socket can get a good grip on. They can be used to firmly secure components and parts with minimal chance of loosening. Hex bolts also have a threaded shaft, with a length that varies depending on the type of bolt being used.
Hex bolts are usually made from steel or brass and come in a variety of different lengths, shapes and sizes to suit a variety of intended uses.
What do you call a hexagon screw?
A hexagon screw is a type of screw that has a hexagonal-shaped head, rather than a traditional, circular head. This type of screw is typically found in applications where a smaller and more precise head is required, such as in furniture assembly and some automotive and electronics applications.
Hexagon screws are also occasionally referred to as Allen head bolts or Allen screws.
What is a 6 sided nut?
A 6 sided nut is a type of nut in which the head of the nut is a hexagonal shape which provides more surface area for a wrench or spanner to grab onto, making it easier and faster to tighten or loosen.
This type of nut is commonly called a “hex” nut, referring to the the hexagonal shape. Including hex jam nuts and heavy hex nuts, which are designed to provide greater torque forces when being tightened or loosened than other, more common, types of nuts.
Hex jam nuts are used in situations where two nuts are being utilized together and the hex jam nut is typically tightened slightly against the primary nut to keep it from loosening over time. Heavy hex nuts are designed for applications that require higher torque forces, typically when a thicker bolt is being used to clamp two items together.
In such cases, the thicker bolt will require more torque force and the heavy hex nut will allow that extra force to be applied.
What are the different bolt types?
There are numerous types of bolts available, including hex bolts, carriage bolts, shoulder bolts, U-bolts, eye bolts, lag bolts, flange bolts, and more.
Hex bolts are the most common type of bolt and are used in many everyday applications, such as building decks and furniture, due to their simple design and relative strength. They can come with either a coarse or fine thread, depending on the application.
Carriage bolts are used in woodworking applications and have a domed or countersunk head with a square neck pushed into the material. They secure a joint when two panels of wood come together through a counterbore hole.
Shoulder bolts (also known as stripper bolts) are typically used in heavy machinery applications due to their strength and durability. The shoulder end of the bolt slides into a mating piece, allowing for the remainder of the part to rotate without affecting the secure tightness of the bolt.
U-bolts are shaped exactly like the letter U and are often used to secure pipes to walls. They are available in a variety of sizes and are often used in situations where a standard bolt won’t work.
Eye bolts are threaded fasteners that have a large loop at the end of them. They are usually used for rigging, such as attaching cords to shackles.
Lag bolts, also known as lag screws, are significantly larger than other bolts and are used to secure heavy materials (such as wood) to a surface. They are often beveled or tapered at the tip to allow for easier insertion.
Flange bolts are similar to hex bolts, but include a large circular flange at the head that distributes the load of the bolt over a larger area. It is commonly used to secure a joint in the presence of vibration or movement.
What screw has 6 ridges on top?
The screw that has 6 ridges on top is called a hexagonal (or hex) screw. It is also commonly referred to as a hex cap screw. The distinguishing feature of it is that it has six flat sides on the head, which form the ridges.
This type of screw is most commonly used in machinery, automotive components, home decor, and other general uses. Hex cap screws are known for their versatility and strength since they can be used with a number of different attachments.
Not only are they a good choice for many applications, but they are also generally easy to install and relatively inexpensive.
What is the difference between a bolt and screw?
The main difference between bolts and screws is the type of head that each fastener has. Bolts typically have a hexagonal head and require a nut for installation, while screws generally have a slotted, Phillips, or Robertson head and are threaded into the material itself.
In addition, bolts must be tightened using a wrench due to their deeper internal threading, whereas screws can often be tightened with a screwdriver. Lastly, although some screws with a hexagonal head do exist, the majority of screws have their heads designed to be flush with their material after installation, whereas most bolts protrude from the surface.
When would you use a hex bolt?
Hex bolts, or hex cap screws, are valuable fasteners used in many applications. They are used when a stronger or more secure fastener is needed than what a typical wood or sheet metal screw might provide.
Hex bolts are typically used in the construction of engines and furniture, and they are great for mechanical applications that require an easily accessed bolt without the need to use a wrench. They are a particular favorite in industrial settings, particularly in projects that require fast assembly and disassembly.
As they easily grab onto other surfaces, they are often used in situations where vibration or other elements may force other fasteners to loosen. Hex bolts also come in a variety of materials, such as steel, stainless steel or brass, so they can be used for a variety of jobs that require different levels of strength, durability and corrosion protection.
Is a hex bolt the same as an Allen bolt?
No, a hex bolt is not the same as an Allen bolt. Hex bolts have hexagonal heads, whereas Allen bolts, also known as socket head cap screws, have a hexagonal internal drive. Hex bolts are designed for a specific purpose and have specific threading and length, whereas Allen bolts are designed for general purpose use and are typically made from alloy or stainless steel.
Additionally, Allen bolts have an increased tensile strength compared to hex bolts, making them stronger and more corrosion resistant.
