Hexagon Bolts.

What are Hexagon Bolts?

Hex bolts, or hexagonal bolts, are a type of precision fastener with a characteristic six-sided hexagonal head. Renowned for their robustness, hex head bolts are designed to be driven with a wrench or socket that can efficiently transfer greater torque than other drive types.

These bolts are engineered to provide a high degree of precision and strength, regardless of whether they are driven into tapped holes or hex bolts and nuts are used in conjunction to clamp components together. They play a crucial role in mechanical assemblies, ensuring that components are held together securely, with the hexagonal head offering an optimal grip for tightening and loosening.

How Hexagonal Bolts Work

Hexagonal bolts, including the popular M6 hex bolt, are indispensable in numerous industries, from automotive to architecture. Their unique design enables them to withstand high levels of torque, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications. A hexagonal-headed bolt is also one of the only drive types to be driven perpendicularly rather than parallel with the threaded shaft making it useful in scenarios with restricted space.

In use, hex bolts and nuts are commonly combined in machinery to ensure a tight, secure fit. In scenarios like automotive engines or architectural structures, hex flange bolts provide the necessary clamping force to keep components in place under stress without the explicit need for a washer.

Materials of Hexagon Head Bolts

At Accu, we pride ourselves on the breadth of materials we offer for hex head bolts, such as high-tensile steel, A2 & A4 stainless steel, brass, and even nylon to match whatever your project needs.

High-tensile steel hex bolts offer the greatest strength and durability, making them suitable for heavy-load applications. Stainless steel variants, like A2 & A4, provide corrosion resistance, which is crucial for outdoor or harsh environments. Lightweight materials like nylon are used for specific needs where weight reduction is a priority or in corrosive environments.

Sizes and Types of Hex Bolts

Accu's range of hex head bolts comes in various thread sizes, from the small M2 hex bolt (2mm) to larger sizes up to M36 (36mm). They are also available in various lengths, ranging from a precise 3mm to a lengthy 200mm, catering to diverse requirements.

The types of hex bolts on offer include fully threaded, partially threaded, and specialised ones like hex flange bolts and sealing hexagon bolts. Why stop there though, additional finishes are available including pre-applied thread lock through our AccuLock range, and black hex bolts that have been chemically treated with our AccuBlack finish for a matte black look.

The hex bolt dimensions you choose will play a crucial role in determining their suitability for specific applications. If at any point you need help, speak with our team of engineers who are more than happy to guide you with your project, even if you need custom manufacturing for a specific component we may not list.

FAQs

Q: Why are bolts hexagonal?

A: Bolts are hexagonal primarily for practicality and efficiency. The hexagon shape offers an ideal balance between ease of manufacturing and providing a large surface area for wrenches or sockets. This shape allows for better torque transfer, reducing slippage and wear during tightening or loosening.

Q: What is the difference between a socket screw and a hex bolt?

A: The key point of difference is that socket screws have a hexagonal drive set into the head itself and are typically driven with a hex key or Allen wrench. They can have various head shapes and sizes. Hex bolts on the other hand have a hexagonal head which is their defining characteristic and are designed to be driven with a wrench or socket set.

Q: What is the difference between a stud bolt and a hex bolt?

A: Stud bolts are headless fasteners, also known as threaded bars which can be inserted into workpieces to allow other sections to align and rest onto while being fastened with a nut. Hexagon bolts however are commonly used for general fastening purposes without that added dimension of alignment and providing a resting point.

Q: What are the advantages of hex bolts?

A: Hex bolts, including hexagon bolt and nut pairs, are the go-to fastener that offers high strength, ease of installation, and versatility in various applications. Their key advantage is high torque transfer and the ability to be installed with a wrench perpendicular to the threaded shaft.

Q: What tool do you need for a hex bolt?

A: Typically, a wrench or a socket set is used for hex bolts, with the size depending on the hex bolt head dimensions which range from 4mm to 55mm in our selection.

Q: How do I know my hex bolt size?

A: To determine the size of your hex bolt, measure the diameter and length of the threaded shaft. Then measure the diameter and height of the head. For specific types like an M6 hex bolt, the size of the thread is indicated by the M-number. Although the length and head size can differ.

Bespoke Hexagon Bolts Manufacture.

High precision, bespoke manufacture of Hexagon Bolts to customer specification. State of the art facilities specialising in both small batch prototyping and large scale manufacture.