A hex wrench, also known as an allen wrench or inbus wrench, is a tool used to tighten and loosen screws or bolts with a hexagonal depression in their head. The first hex wrench was developed in 1911 and became popular during World War II. Hex keys are often purchased in sets and are commonly used in self-assembly furniture kits. They provide a snug fit and prevent slipping or distorting of the fastener head. However, they must be used manually and can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
A hex wrench is a tool used to tighten and loosen a screw or bolt, which has a hexagonal depression in its head. The tool may also be called a hex wrench, allen wrench, hex head wrench, zeta wrench, alum wrench, or inbus wrench. These are used in both consumer and industrial assembly but are often associated with self-assembly kits sold to consumers, especially furniture kits.
The first hex wrench was developed in 1911. The tools came into common use during the manufacturing boom of World War II. The Allen Manufacturing Company was granted its first patent in 1943, and its design has become so popular that the allen key name is often used to refer to any such tool, even those manufactured by other companies.
The term “hex” comes from hexa, the Greek word for “six”. The tool consists of a six-sided metal strip bent at a 90° angle about one-third the way up from one end. Typically, the short side is inserted into the fastener, while the long side provides a grip for the user, but most hex wrenches are reversible. The user turns the key to turn the screw or bolt. The amount of torque, or force, the tool can apply depends on the length and thickness of the hex key.
Fasteners with hex heads are often easier to turn than those with standard Phillips heads or screwdriver slots. The six points of contact allow the hex key to fit more snugly into the fastener head than is possible with a screwdriver. This helps prevent the tool from slipping out of the fastener head. Additionally, the design of hex head fasteners makes them less prone to stripping or distorting the head than standard or Phillips head fasteners.
Hex keys must be used manually, as there are no drill accessories available. Also, they can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces due to the space required to turn the key handle. Despite these drawbacks, the instrument remains a lightweight, simple, and cost-effective solution for many consumer and industrial situations.
Hex keys are often purchased in sets of various sizes. They are packaged in self-assembly furniture kits because they are small, cheap to produce, and easy to use. Inclusion in such kits saves the user from having to find a screwdriver or drill to complete the project and is meant to increase customer satisfaction with the assembly process.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
