T-handle hex keys The T-handle feature a good grip thanks to the shape of its handle, from where it gets its moniker, allowing for significantly increased torque. Besides the common types described earlier, Allen™ wrenches are available with other features that improve safety or increase convenience for using the tool.

Size of fastener - probably the most important consideration as the wrong sized key either won't fit the fastener or fit loosely resulting in either damaging the tool or rounding off the fastener making it difficult to remove. This article provided a summary of the commonly available sizes of Allen™ wrenches/keys and explained the different types of Allen™ wrenches as well as the advantages of these tools. For information on other topics, consult our additional guides or visit the Thomas Supplier Discovery Platform where you can locate potential sources of supply for over 70,000 different product and service categories, including suppliers of Allen™ wrenches and other hex key wrenches. Pressure points – the hex design of the Allen™ screw distributes force from the tool against 6 surfaces compared with 4 for the Phillips head screw and 2 for the slotted screw. This makes it easier to loosen or tighten these fasteners and can make it less likely to strip or damage a fastener while loosening or tightening. Range of access – Allen™ wrenches that feature a hex ball end can allow fasteners to be accessed from angles other than directly in the same plane as the fastener. This can simplify assembly & disassembly in close quarter conditions.Allen™ wrenches or Allen™ keys are generally available in several different styles or types. The most common Allen™ wrench type is the one mentioned earlier – the L-shaped hex key – but there are other variations that incorporate different handle designs, utilize different materials, or add special features. A summary of the most common Allen™ wrench types is found below: Straight hex keys These resemble screwdrivers and function in much the same way except the head features either a flat or ball ended hex key, instead of the traditional screwdriver bit. Allen™ wrenches are available as individual keys of a given size but are also sold in sets that contain a range of standard sizes. Allen™ keys are identified as being either metric-sized keys in millimeter sizes or SAE (Imperial) sized keys in fractions of an inch or decimal equivalents. Torque needed **- When tightening or loosening a fastener (particularly loosening) the amount of torque needed to move the part is key. An L-shape or T-handle have particular leverage in this area, their extended handles allow for greater torque when dealing with fasteners Non-sparking designs – While most Allen™ keys use an alloy steel or tool steel material in their fabrication, there are options available that utilize Beryllium Copper in lieu of steel. The Beryllium Copper material will not create sparks if the tool accidentally slips and strikes another metal surface. The non-sparking feature of this material makes these types of Allen™ wrenches suitable for use in applications where the presence of flammable gases or combustible liquids might exist.

This article will present information on Allen™ wrenches, what they are, their advantages, and the common sizes that are available in the marketplace. To learn more about other types of fastener products, see the list of related articles at the end of this article. What is an Allen™ Wrench? Figure 1 below shows the cross-sectional profile of the Allen™ wrench or Allen™ key. The important parameter that establishes the size of the Allen™ wrench or Allen™ key is the width across flats, which is the distance between any two of the faces of the tool that are parallel to each other. Tether-ready designs – These Allen™ wrenches include an opening on the handle which can be used to attach a tether that can secure the wrench to the user or to a fixed object such as a scaffold. This feature helps prevent the wrench from accidentally falling into a work area and causing injuries or equipment damage. This feature is useful when the tool user is working on an elevated platform.Size and weight – Allen™ keys tend to be smaller and lighter than the equivalent tools used to apply other fastener types, making them easier to carry. This can be an advantage for applications where mobility is important such as with cyclists that might want to carry a bike tool kit along on a ride. L-shaped hex keys The most common type of hex key. The L-shaped key is double ended allowing you to use torque to tighten and loosen fasteners with the short end, whilst the long end can be used in the same way as a straight key. Did you know that most people use the wrong screwdriver for the job? It’s essential to distinguish between the various screwdriver types and know what screw you’re using. A set from Halfords will include a variety of screwdrivers for slotted head screws, Phillips drive screws and Pozidriv screws, perfect for any job. Impact drivers & screw bits