A hex bolt is a type of fastener that consists of a head and shaft. It is designed to be used with a nut to connect and fasten two parts with a through-hole. The distinguishing feature of a hex bolt is its hexagonal head.
Hex bolts come in two types: fully threaded or partially threaded, with the latter having a clear shank on one part of the body. They are suitable for various applications, particularly in mechanical and construction settings.
These bolts are available in different types, sizes, materials, and surface treatments, allowing you to choose the most suitable bolt for your specific task or application. Due to their distinct head shape, hex bolts are sometimes referred to as hex head bolts or hexagon bolts.
Hex bolts have a wide range of uses in different industries and applications, including:
Versatile Fastening: Hex bolts are used in wood, metal, and various other environments. They offer strong tensile properties and can be used in multiple positions, depending on the material and finish.
Heavy-Duty Applications: Hex bolts are commonly used for heavy-duty fixing and fastening tasks. They find applications in mechanical assembly, carpentry, building installations, repairs, and maintenance projects. They are used for fastening frames, engineering vehicles, automobiles, lifting machinery, and various structures like industrial plants, towers, bridges, and roads.
Hex bolts work by withstanding external forces through the close connection of multiple structural parts. They can be used in pre-tapped holes or with nuts, depending on the specific application.
Various tools can be used to tighten hex bolts, including hex bolt wrenches, sockets, wrenches, hex keys, and ratchet wrenches. The hex head design allows for easy gripping from different angles, simplifying the installation and removal process. This facilitates easy tightening or loosening of the hex bolts once they are in place.
There are different types of hex bolts available, each suited to specific applications and environments. Hex bolts can be classified based on factors such as size, material, surface treatment, and whether they are fully or partially threaded.
Threading is an important aspect of hex bolts. Both fully threaded and partially threaded hex bolts are available. Partially threaded bolts have threading only on half of the bolt's length, with an unthreaded shank connecting the threaded shank to the head. This design ensures strength and prevents strain on the non-threaded part. Fully threaded hex bolts have threading from the end to the head and are ideal for heavy-duty applications.
Hex bolts are typically made of steel or stainless steel. Steel and stainless steel hex bolts are the most common, although other materials like iron and copper may be used by some manufacturers. Different coatings and finishes are also available, such as galvanized, zinc-plated, passivated, oxidized black, and natural finishes. The choice of material and finish depends on the specific requirements of the application.
In conclusion, hex bolts are versatile and widely used fasteners with a range of applications. They provide secure and reliable connections in various industries and are available in different types, sizes, materials, and finishes to meet specific needs.