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

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.

What is the use of hexagonal tool holder?

A hex key or Allen key is a simple tool used to drive bolts and screws with hexagonal sockets in their heads. The tool is usually formed of a single piece of hexagonal rod of hard steel, with blunt ends that are meant to fit snugly into the screw’s socket, bent in an “L” shape with unequal arms.

Why do allen wrenches 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 I know the size of my Allen wrench?

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.

How does an Allen wrench work?

Allen keys work like most other screwdrivers and wrenches but with a few nuances. You can use them by placing one of the ends inside a fastener with a hexagonal socket head and turning it. Turning the Allen key clockwise will tighten the fastener, whereas turning it counterclockwise will loosen or remove the fastener.

What is an Allen wrench with hole in the middle?

Bondhus Tamper Resistant (Security) L-Wrenches have a hole in the tip to accommodate a pin in the socket head fastener. Each tool is manufactured to the tightest tolerances in the hand tool industry.

What size is a number 4 Allen wrench?

3/8″ can be used as a substitute for hex size 9.5 mm as well as 10 mm. 1/16″ works in place of hex size 1.5 mm, which isn’t included in most sets….MM Substitutes for SAE.

Metric Hex Key	Imperial Hex Size
3 mm	1/8
3.5 mm	9/64
4 mm	5/32
5.5 mm	7/32

How is an allen wrench used?

In addition to assembling furniture, the Allen wrench is also commonly used for bike repairs . The unusual shape, plus the fact that the Allen wrench is small and light and capable of getting into hard-to-reach places on a bike, makes it particularly useful for cyclists to carry with them as they ride.

What size is an allen wrench?

Standard-Size Allen Wrench. The inch-based set of Allen wrenches is considered standard in the industry. A typical set will contain a wide range of sizes, including: 1/8 inch. 3/32 inch. 7/64 inch. 5/32 inch. 3/16 inch.

How are Allen wrenches made?

Allen wrenches, also called “hex keys,” start as large pieces of steel alloy known as billet. These 50- to 80-lb. blocks are loaded into a powerful hydraulic press that squeezes the malleable metal through a small opening, creating a long, rod-like piece. This rod is then attached to an empty spool that stretches and winds it into a coil of steel wire.

What is another name for an allen wrench?

Commonly known as a hex key, Allen wrench, zeta key, or hex head, it is a six-sided tool used as a driver for screws, bolts, and other fasteners designed to fit the tool. The name “Allen wrench” came from the Allen Company, a Hartford , Connecticut based manufacturer who produced the tool.

What is the difference between an Allen key and an Allen wrench? 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. What is the use of hexagonal tool holder?…