Socket Screw, also known as Allen head screws or socket head bolts, are fasteners that can be installed using a wrench or hex key. They have a hexagonal recess in the head, which can be driven by an Allen wrench or hex key to allow for tightening and removal. Unlike other screw types, which have flat or Philips heads, socket screws are threaded across the entire shank. This allows them to be used in applications where there isn’t enough space for a traditional nut and bolt, or where it would be difficult to use a socket wrench.
Despite their simple construction, socket screws are highly versatile and can be used in many different industries and applications. They are easy to install, tighten or loosen and can achieve impressive clamping strengths. They are a popular choice for assembly lines and industrial production, and can be found in furniture manufacture, automotive sector, steel fabrication and machine tooling applications, among others.
They are commonly manufactured from high-quality alloy, stainless or aluminium steels that are shaped at room temperature and then heat treated to improve their strength and durability. These materials are typically coated, plated or polished to provide resistance to corrosion in challenging environments.
There are several variants of the Socket Screw, with different head shapes and sizes to suit specific requirements. For example, the Low Head Socket Screw features a lower profile head that is only 1.5 times the size of the shank, while the Button Head Socket Screw has a larger head diameter to allow for improved load distribution.
