Hands from the right place | 01/27/2016
The simplest and most familiar hex key is also called an Allen key or Allen key . It is a special hexagonal profile, often shaped like the letter L. Its design is due to the fact that the use of a hexagonal internal profile allows the use of an order of magnitude greater torque compared to a cross-shaped slot in the screw head.
History of the origin of the hex key
Historical references provide different versions of the appearance of the instrument. However, there is no documentary evidence for all versions. It is known that the possibility of using holes with several edges on bolts was thought about around the 60s of the 19th century. But production began much later. At that time it was impossible for technical reasons. The idea was implemented in 1908 in Canada. Initially, P. L. Robertson began producing hardware with a 4-sided recess.
Just a year later, William G. Allen formed a hexagon inside the head of a screw and patented his invention. As early as 1910, various advertisements appeared that advertised the Allen safety locking screw. Of course, the idea was far from new, but such a patent appeared for the first time. Over time, the scope of application of the hex hole and the key for it developed and expanded.
Important information about hexagons
A distinctive feature of the hexagon is its very high torque. Compared to an ordinary screwdriver or wrench, this parameter for a hexagon is ten times higher.
Quite often, a hexagon is confused with a Torx slot, which has the shape of a six-pointed star. In reality, these are completely different splines, and therefore different types of tools are used for them.
Features of the imbus key
The imbus key has several features that are undoubted advantages:
- simplicity, light weight;
- reliable protection of the external part from harmful influences;
- 6 contact surfaces located between the hardware and the tool;
- can be used for bolts whose heads are hidden or missing;
- it is possible to install a screw in the hole using a hexagon;
- the torque limitation depends on the thickness and length of the tool;
- can be used for bolts and heads of the smallest sizes;
- the low price of an imbus key allows you to include the tool in the delivery kit for self-assembly of the structure;
- the key belongs to the category of L-shaped (also known as L-shaped);
- When the edges are worn, it is easy to restore them with a file or remove the damaged part.
Appearance of a set of hexagons
All types of hexagons are based on an iron rod. It is on it that the first impulse of torque falls, and therefore its strength is of great importance.
The raw materials used for its production must be reliable, resistant to destruction, and suitable for long-term use.
What is an imbus key for?
The imbus wrench is designed for installation and dismantling of various hardware (screws, confirmations and others with a hexagonal socket). The tool is common in the automotive, furniture and other industries.
The key is made in the form of a hexagonal rod, which is bent in the shape of the letter G. The working part is shortened, and twisting with the opposite side is possible. This allows you to use the tool in hard-to-reach places. For example, where the screws are located at an angle.
For the production of an imbus key, high-strength tool steel, as well as alloys (chrome vanadium and chrome molybdenum), are usually used. In some cases, the wrench is made with a T-handle, or in the shape of a socket or power tool bit. However, all options do not differ in application, since they are intended for recesses with six edges.
Rod bent at right angles
The device of this modification is extremely simple. Structurally, it is a rectangular rod, the cross-section of which has the same value along its entire length.
In this case, the short part is necessary to give the rod a significant torque impulse according to the principle of lever action.
Dimensions and markings
The standard design is designated as HEX; additionally, numbering is provided in accordance with the distance between a pair of edges. When viewed from a metric measurement perspective, the required production standards are specified in ISO 2936:2001. The following imbus key options are available:
- from 0.7 to 1.5 mm;
- from 2 mm to 6 mm, where the step is 0.5 mm;
- from 7 mm to 22 mm, where the step is 1 mm;
- from 24 to 46 mm.
A TORX socket tool is also a type of socket wrench. The difference between these options is that TORX is characterized by an asterisk-shaped recess.
It is important that the main part of the tool coincides with the hole and fits tightly to it, this ensures even distribution of the load, which guarantees no breakdowns and safety. For this reason, it is necessary to use wrenches according to the size of the fasteners. For example, when using a 5.5 mm hexagon for hardware with a hole in the head that is 0.5 mm larger, injury and abrasion of the edges is possible.
Durable alloy for hexagon set
As a rule, all hexagons, regardless of purpose and model, are made from especially strong alloy steel. In some cases, other types of raw materials are used for this, including chrome vanadium or chrome molybdenum alloys.
The current GOST regulates a set of parameters that the raw material must meet, including its ability to withstand certain working forces.
To produce the screwdriver handle, elastic but fracture-resistant plastic is used. When casting it, a mold with recesses and protruding parts is used, which allows for a comfortable grip of the tool’s handle in the master’s palm.
Correct choice of hexagon
Provided that the correct set of hexagons is selected, the master will have at his disposal convenient tools for any popular application, from bicycle repair to self-assembly of a desk.
In order not to get confused by the wide variety of products on the market, you need to take the following important rules as guidelines:
- A professional who constantly needs such a tool should buy a set containing at least 12 types of hexagons.
- In this way, he will invest his money profitably, since he will receive a full arsenal of tools for work for many years to come.
- A home master can limit himself to purchasing five modifications.
- They can be purchased during sales and promotions, which will provide significant savings.
- You can also take a ready-made small set if the online store offers an attractive discount on it.
The most reliable are keys and screwdrivers made of special tool steel or chrome vanadium. They will work properly for decades without losing the clarity of their edges and corners.
You should not buy products from a dubious Asian brand. Inexpensive Chinese keys and screwdrivers can destroy the fasteners of furniture assembled with their help and, on top of that, break at the most inopportune moment.
