A hex flange nut combines a hex nut with a flanged base, allowing pressure to be displaced over a larger area. It is commonly used in locking applications and allows for easy one-handed installation. Flange nuts are available in various metals and thread types and are popular for their ability to reach hard-to-reach areas without dropping the nut.
A hex flange nut is a fastener that incorporates both a hex nut with a flanged or washer-like base, which is a large area on the bottom of the nut that extends outward beyond the typical nut diameter. Used when a flat washer is not practical, a hex flange nut allows the pressure of the nut to be displaced over a larger area than a plain nut will allow. Most designs of hex flange nut are used in locking applications, with the flange nut using a serrated back on the flange or a locking thread within the nut itself to lock the fastener in place when tightened .
Often used when a separate lock nut and washer would be difficult to use, the hex flange nut allows the user to start the fastener with one hand even in a difficult to access location. Once started, the hex flange nut is easily tightened into place using a socket wrench and air tool. Most assembly line manufacturing jobs require the help of hex flange nuts to speed up the assembly process down the line. Workers are much faster placing a single fastener onto a bolt or stud than placing a lock washer and nut onto a comparable bolt or stud. This makes for a smoother line and requires fewer stoppages due to missing fasteners or cross-threaded fasteners, which are nuts that are crookedly forced onto bolts as a worker rushes to get hooked on the assembly line.
Flange Nuts are available in the most common metal types including brass, stainless steel and titanium. Both normal and fine thread nuts are also available in the flanged version, making the fastener a viable option for most fastening requirements. The serrated bottom of the lock flange nut design is a popular choice with electronic fasteners. Serrated flange bites and holds electrical fasteners in place. When used on a brittle surface, such as aluminum, the flange nut is much less likely to damage the soft metal surface than a traditional nut.
Another popular reason for using a hex flange nut is so that you can place the nut in a socket wrench and thus reach hard-to-reach areas without dropping the nut. The flange sits firmly against the edge of the socket wrench and prevents the nut from sinking deeply into the socket. The socket can be used as an extension of the user’s arm to drive the nut onto the bolt. In combination with a magnetic socket wrench, it is nearly impossible to drop a hex flange nut from a socket wrench.
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