A Socket Head Bolt is a fastener with a hexagonal head and six flat sides that can be tightened or loosened with a wrench. They’re ideal for applications with limited installation access as they require very little clearance around the fastener.
They’re also stronger than conventional screws, size for size. This strength allows fewer socket head cap screws of the same diameter to achieve the same amount of clamping force in a joint.
Ease of Installation
Socket head bolts, also known as Allen screws, feature a unique design that distinguishes them from other types of fasteners. They have a built-in hexagonal internal drive that requires a specific type of wrench to install and remove them.
They are a popular option in applications that require aesthetics, a low profile design or access to tight spaces where traditional external hex drives cannot fit. They are available in a wide variety of materials, finishes and head heights to accommodate different environmental and strength requirements.
Hex socket screw drives provide six stress-bearing sides that can be tightened or loosened with an Allen wrench (hex key). They resist cam-out better than other drives and are ideal for use in locations where there is limited installation access or clearance. They can also be used in applications with a lot of debris such as corrosive chemicals like Alloy 330 (UNS N08330), which has excellent resistance to cracked ammonia and nitrogen rich environments.
Versatility
Socket head bolts are available in a variety of sizes, lengths, and materials. This versatility makes them a popular choice for a wide range of industrial and construction applications.
They can be tightened or loosened efficiently using tools such as standard socket sets and allen wrenches, which require little clearance around the fastener. They also offer greater torque capacity than other screw types.
Because of their superior strength and durability, hex socket cap screws are ideal for heavy-duty applications. They can be used for constructing steel structures and securing engine components, among other uses. In addition, they are often used in machine assemblies where tight tolerances are required. Socket screws are one of the most versatile types of fasteners available. They are inexpensive and easy to install, making them an ideal choice for many industrial applications.
Strength
Socket head cap screws (also known as Allen head bolts) are often used when tight space or a wrench isn’t available. They offer increased performance in a small package and are suitable for many different types of applications and industries.
They feature a cylindrical head with an inset hexagon drive that’s compatible with hex keys or wrenches. These fasteners typically have a stronger grip than other screw heads and can withstand high loads.
In addition to their strength, socket head cap screws provide exceptional corrosion resistance. They also feature a flat head that sits flush with the surface of the material they’re fastened to, offering a cleaner look. They’re available in a variety of specialty materials to suit diverse industrial demands, including nickel alloys and stainless steel. This versatility allows them to adapt to tough environments while remaining dependable and durable. Various industry-standards govern the specifications, sizes, and other characteristics of these bolts, ensuring consistency and compatibility across manufacturing facilities and users.
Durability
Also known as Allen head bolts, socket screws offer superior tensile and yield strength to most other screw types. These fasteners are ideal for applications requiring an aesthetically pleasing, yet robust, screw with impressive clamping capabilities.
In comparison to hex bolts, the heads of socket screws are recessed within a counterbored hole to lie flush with the surface being fixed, giving a clean appearance and no protrusions that could catch on objects or skin. Furthermore, the cylindrical heads and internal drives of socket screws require less space than hex head bolts, meaning fewer holes need to be drilled, tapped and filled with threaded material.
In addition, ITA’s 17-4 PH socket cap screws are a great choice when weight reduction is important. These high-strength, internally driven fasteners require significantly fewer screws to achieve the same clamping capacity of traditional fasteners, meaning a lower overall weight of the finished assembly. ITA’s high-quality socket head cap screws are available in a wide variety of standard and metric sizes to suit your project.