Hex Cap Screw Bolt
Hex bolts, also known as hexagonal head bolts, are threaded machine bolts used with a nut or in a tapped hole. As the name suggests, hex head bolts are hexagonal heads (6 sides) made from grade 2 galvanized steel, 316/304 stainless steel, and grade 5 zinc plated steel.
- Product Introduction
Wholesale Hex Cap Screw Bolt Supplier
Ningbo Decheng Industrial Equipment Co., Ltd. was established in July 2019. It has completed more than 300 cooperation projects with customers at home and abroad. Its outstanding efficiency and performance have been recognized by customers.
Strict Management
We strictly supervise each production link and strictly follow the company's production system and industry standards. Our products comply with applicable ASTM, ANSI, ASME, SAE, API, NAS, AN, MS and other standards to provide quality assurance for our products.
Fast Delivery
With millions of dollars of inventory in our product warehouse, we have enough inventory for each product, which allows us to quickly select, pack and ship products to fulfill your order efficiently and timely. Complete production lines also enable rapid production and delivery of customized products.
Diverse Applications
Products are used in various industries, including: aerospace, petrochemical refining, oil and gas, chemical processing, power generation, pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, rail transit, ships, medical industry, semiconductors and water treatment products in special fields or with special usage environment requirements.
Rich Product Range
We specialize in fasteners and custom parts in nickel-based alloys, titanium, duplex steels, 6% molybdenum and specialty stainless steels. The company's main products: bolts, nuts, screws, washers, studs, sleeve products, screws, U-bolts and flanges, and provides customers with non-calibrated parts processing services.
The product is made from durable materials, providing excellent wear resistance and corrosion resistance, suitable for long-term use and harsh environments. The design of plugs and bushings makes them easy to install and remove, saving time and labor costs.
The bolt features a large head design, providing greater torque transmission capability and a larger clamping surface for secure and reliable connections. The bolt design allows for the transmission of greater torque, ensuring reliable fastening.
Feature a U-shaped bent design, allowing them to secure and support pipes, pipelines, or other equipment. The product undergoes surface treatment such as galvanization or other corrosion-resistant coatings, providing additional corrosion protection.
The product offers a variety of sizes and lengths to accommodate different application scenarios and requirements. The product undergoes precision manufacturing to ensure precise dimensions and high compatibility with components, reducing the risk of loosening and failure.
What is Hex Cap Screw Bolt?
Hex bolts, also known as hexagonal head bolts, are threaded machine bolts used with a nut or in a tapped hole. As the name suggests, hex head bolts are hexagonal heads (6 sides) made from grade 2 galvanized steel, 316/304 stainless steel, and grade 5 zinc plated steel. Hex head bolts are designed to secure objects within or against other objects for a non-loosening hold. Applications for a hex bolt include fastening steel to steel, wood to wood, and other materials found on construction for projects such as highway structures, bridges, and buildings. The Hex bolts allow for greater torque than traditional circular screws and tend to spin as you tighten and loosen them, making the need to hold with a wrench or socket. Hex bolts are commonly installed and removed with socket wrenches.
How Do Hex Bolts Work?
Hex bolts can be used either in pre-tapped holes or with nuts, depending on the application. They can then be tightened using a range of tools including a hex bolt wrench, socket sets, spanners, hex keys, and ratchet spanners.
The hexagon-shaped head ensures that it is easy to grip hex bolts from multiple angles, using different types of tool. This makes their installation and removal a straightforward process, plus ensuring it is also easy to loosen or tighten hex bolts once they are in situ.
Types of Hex Cap Screw Bolt
Hex Cap Screw
This is the standard hex head screw. It's used in a wide range of applications where a secure fastener applied with a wrench or socket is required.
Hex Socket Head Cap Screws
These popular screws have a cylindrical head and an internal hex socket drive. They are commonly used in applications where a low-profile, flush installation is desired.
Hex Tap Bolt
Similar to a hex cap screw. These bolts are often used in construction and industrial applications where a non-removable fastener is needed.
Hex Head Set Screws
These screws have no head and are fully threaded. They are used to secure one object within or against another, often used in conjunction with a threaded hole.
Hex Serrated Flange Bolt
Similar to a hex flange bolt, this type has serrations under the flange to help prevent loosening due to vibrations. It's commonly used in machinery and equipment assembly.
Hex Machine Screws
These smaller-sized hex screws are used in applications that require threaded fasteners but in smaller sizes, such as electronics, machinery, and appliances.
Hex Lag Screws
Also known as a lag bolt, it has a larger body and is designed to be used with a nut and washer. These screws are commonly used for fastening wood to wood or wood to metal in construction and woodworking.
Hex Flange Bolt
This bolt has an integral flange that serves as a built-in washer. It's often used in automotive and structural applications, where the flange distributes the load and eliminates the need for a separate washer.
Head
The head of the hex bolt has six sides thus the name hex bolt. It has different dimensions among them the diameter which is often more extensive than the rest of the nut. It is the most substantial part of the hex bolt without the nut.
Grip Length
The grip length is the distance between the head of the hex bolt and the threaded area of the hex bolt. The range has a measure in millimeters and does not have threads. In most cases, the grip length is often longer than the threaded length.
Thread Length
The thread length is the distance immediately after the grip length. It has a series of threads of different lengths depending on the type of bolt. It is the part of the bolt where the nut attaches.
Nominal Length
In the manufacturing industry, nominal length is also the trade size or nominal size of the hex bolt. It may not match or comply with any dimensions on the bolt, but the main scope falls within the nominal size. In simple terms, it is the length you will arrive at by adding the grip length and the thread length of the hex bolt.
Thread
It is a helical structure that converts between linear and rotational force or movement on a hex bolt. It is the ridge that wraps around the hex bolt as a helix. It is the point where the bolt and the nut join and stick together
Radius
It is the point where the head of the hex bolt connects to the grip length of the bolt. It is a junction that connects the head of the hex bolt to the entire body of the hex bolt.
Reliable Fasteners: The Top Reasons to Use Hex Bolts
Increased Torque
Versatility
Secure Fastening
Easy Installation and Removal
Resistance to Stripping
Standardization
Applications of Hex Cap Screw Bolt
Construction
Hex bolts are frequently used in construction for joining structural components (Fig. 3) like beams, columns, and trusses. They provide the necessary strength and stability to support heavy loads and ensure the safety of the structure.
Automotive and Machinery
In the automotive and machinery industries, hex bolts are used to assemble engine components, chassis parts, and machinery frames. Their durability and strength are crucial for maintaining the integrity of these systems.
Furniture Assembly
Hex bolts are often used in assembling furniture due to their ease of use and strong fastening capabilities. From bed frames to bookshelves, hex bolts provide the necessary stability for everyday use.
Infrastructure Projects
Hex bolts play a role in large-scale infrastructure projects, such as bridges, tunnels, and railways, where their robustness is vital to ensure the safety and longevity of the structures.
Manufacturing
Hex bolts are employed in manufacturing processes for assembling machinery, equipment, and production lines. They ensure that the parts are securely fastened together, preventing malfunction and improving overall operational efficiency.
Electronics
In electronics manufacturing, hex bolts are utilized for securing components within equipment and devices. Their small size makes them suitable for applications where space is limited.
Aerospace and Aviation
The aerospace industry relies on hex bolts for assembling aircraft components, engines, and critical systems. The high strength and reliability of hex bolts are crucial for ensuring the safety of air travel.
Renewable Energy Projects
In solar panel installations and wind turbine construction, hex bolts are used to fasten frames, mounts, and structural components. Their resistance to environmental factors is important in outdoor applications.
Marine and Shipbuilding
Hex bolts are essential for marine applications due to their resistance to corrosion in saltwater environments. They are used in shipbuilding, boat construction, and offshore structures.
Railways and Transportation
Hex bolts are used in the construction and maintenance of railway tracks, bridges, and transportation infrastructure to ensure safety and stability.
Oil and Gas Industry
Hex bolts are employed in the oil and gas sector for assembling equipment, pipelines, and infrastructure in both onshore and offshore facilities.
Communication Towers
Hex bolts play a role in assembling communication towers, antennas, and transmission equipment to ensure stability and reliability.
Hex Bolts Standards
| ASME B18.2.1 | 3/8 inch to 3 inch |
| BS 1769 | ½ inch to 2 inch |
| ASME B18.2.3.6M | M12 to M36 |
| ASME B18.2.3.7M | M16 to M36 |
| DIN 6914 | M12 to M36 |
| ISO 7412 | M12 to M36 |
| UNI 5712 | M12 to M36 |
| DIN-EN 14399-4 | M12 to M36 |
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is an alloy of low carbon steel and chromium for enhanced corrosion characteristics. Stainless steel is highly corrosion resistant for the price. Because the anti-corrosive properties are inherent to the metal, it will not lose this resistance if scratched during installation or use.
Steel
Steel is the most common fastener material. Steel fasteners are available plain as well as with various surface treatments such as zinc plating, galvanization, and chrome plating. Steel fasteners are commonly available in 4 grades: Grade 2, Grade 5, Grade 8, and Alloy Steel. Many other grades exist but are used far less often. Grade 2, 5, and 8 are usually plated with a slightly blue-ish or yellow zinc coating, or are galvanized, to resist corrosion.
Silicon Bronze
Silicon bronze, often referred to simply as bronze, is an alloy made mostly of copper and tin with a small amount of silicon. Bronze is used primarily in marine environments. It is preferred over stainless in wooden boat construction and re-fastening due to its superior corrosion resistance, and over brass due to its higher strength. Bronze is similar to copper in color and is also sometimes seen in fine woodworking where it is used for its appearance. The main drawback of bronze is its high cost.
Brass
Brass is an alloy of primarily copper and zinc. Brass is highly corrosion resistant and electrically conductive. However, its use as a fastener is somewhat limited due to its relative softness. It is used primarily for its appearance.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a light, soft, corrosion resistant metal. Like stainless steel, aluminum's corrosion resistance is inherent to the material. Therefore, scratches and nicks will not effect the corrosion resistance. Fasteners are made from a variety of aluminum alloys, with elements such as manganese, silicon, iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, and silicon being added to increase strength and melting point.
Self-colour
Fasteners in the plain uncoated finish are also called "Black" or "Self Colour" finish. Fastener products described in these ways have no additional coating, generally, they are oil quenched giving them a surface oil residue that gives a minimal amount of protection.
Zinc Plating
Electroplated zinc is a storage finish, fasteners are subject to the heat and moisture variations of a typical fastener warehouse and zinc gives a level of protection. Zinc plated fasteners will rust if placed in a wet environment and are not suitable for outside use.
Black Zinc
Bolts electroplated with an electro zinc flash coating and black chrome passivation are described as Black zinc. This finish is used where a colour coating is important for identification or aesthetics.
Zinc-Cobalt
Zinc-cobalt plating of fasteners is a process that achieves enhanced corrosion resistance compared to traditional zinc plating of the same thickness. Zinc-Cobalt gives Bolts and screws have a bright lustre. By electroplating zinc and cobalt the end result is a uniform ductility that will withstand up to six times the corrosion resistance of conventional zinc plating.
Nickel
Screws Nickel plated are initially copper plated and the Nickel coat is electrolytically applied to the copper finish. Used in fasteners for electrical appliances and areas of condensation. Decorative applications account for about 80% of the nickel consumed in plating.
Electro Brass
Electro brass is used for decorative fasteners; it has been Commercially electroplated since it's development in the 1850s. A brass finish applied by electroplating. Appears similar to brass and is used in furniture or architectural fittings.
Tin
Nuts and bolts of steel and copper can be electro tinned. Tin plating increases the performance and durability of objects is it added to and improves corrosion resistance. Tin creates suitable properties for soldering thanks to the oxidation protection that tin-plating provides; which ensures that exposure to air is far less likely to tarnish the surfaces of tin plated fasteners.
Phosphate Conversion Coating
Phosphate coated fasteners have a thin dull grey coating obtained by immersing the steel fasteners in a phosphoric acid bath. Dipping into the bath allows chemical conversion of the fastener surface and a layer of phosphate to form. Gives a lower level of protection than zinc in mild environments, but gives an excellent base for painting and lubrication.
Production Process of Hex Cap Screw Bolt
Cold Forging
The manufacture of bolts starts from cold forging. First, the large steel wire is uncoiled and cut into the specified length, which meets the requirements of the international ISO 898-1. Special tools are used to make the cold-forged wire rod into the correct shape. In the main process, the steel is formed at room temperature and made into a series of molds through high pressure. The tolerance requirement may be only one-hundredth of a millimeter. The precision meets its requirements. The cold forging process ensures that bolts can be produced quickly, in large batches, and with high uniformity.
Heat Treatment
Heat treatment is the standard process for all bolts, including exposing the bolt to extreme temperatures to harden the steel. Thread processing is usually carried out before heat treatment and is carried out by rolling or cutting when the steel is soft. Rolling works very similar to cold forging and involves passing bolts through a die to form and mold steel into threads. Cutting involves cutting and removing steel to form threads. Since heat treatment changes the characteristics of steel to make it harder, pre-threading is easier and more cost-effective. However, the thread after heat treatment will mean better fatigue performance.
Surface Treatment
The choice of surface treatment depends on the application of bolts and customer requirements. Generally, the main concern of fasteners is corrosion resistance, so galvanized coatings applied by electrolytic treatment are a common solution. This is a process of immersing the bolt in a zinc-containing liquid and applying an electric current to cause the zinc to form a coating on the bolt. However, electrolytic treatment does increase the risk of hydrogen embrittlement. Another option is zinc flake, which has higher corrosion resistance.
Diameter (W): The diameter of a hex bolt is typically measured across the outer edges of its threads. Common metric sizes range from small diameters, such as 6 mm, to larger diameters exceeding 25 mm. The diameter is a critical factor in determining the bolt's strength and load-carrying capacity.
Length (L): The length of a hex bolt is measured from the bottom of the head to the tip of the threaded portion. Hex bolts come in various metric lengths to accommodate different applications, and it's crucial to select a length that allows sufficient engagement with the materials being fastened.
Thread Pitch (P): The thread pitch represents the distance between adjacent threads on the bolt. It is measured in millimetres per thread. Coarse thread pitches are common in larger diameter bolts, while fine thread pitches are used in smaller diameter bolts, providing different levels of holding strength.
Head Width (S): The hexagonal head width is the distance across opposite flat sides of the bolt head. This dimension is essential for selecting the appropriate metric wrench or socket size for tightening or loosening the bolt. This dimension is measured from flat side to flat side across the bolt head. The term "across flats" is often used to specify the metric wrench or socket size needed to tighten or loosen the bolt.
Head Height (D): The head height is the distance from the bottom of the head to the top, including any washer face if present. It contributes to the overall profile of the bolt and may be a consideration when clearance is limited.
How to Choose the Right Hex Bolts for Your Projects
Determine the Material: Material is the critical factor when deciding about the kind of hex bolt you must choose. Common materials in hex bolts are carbon steel, stainless steel, and alloy steel. Carbon steel hex bolts are cost-effective and work well for general applications. Stainless steel hex bolts are ideal for outdoor and corrosive environments as they are highly resistant to corrosion. To withstand high pressure and load, alloy steel is used as they provide higher tensile strength.
Bolt Grades: Hex bolts are categorized into various grades to indicate their tensile strength and suitability for specific purposes. Commonly used grades are Grade 2, Grade 5, and Grade 8. Grade 2 bolts have lower tensile strength. Grade 5 has higher tensile strength, suitable for moderate to high loads. Grade 8 has the highest tensile strength. Thus, it's ideal for applications requiring maximum durability and strength.
Size & Length: To have a proper fit and secure connection between two objects using hex bolts, it's important to choose the correct size and length. The size of the bolt is measured in the diameter of the bolt. It is usually in inches or millimeters. To have sufficient thread engagement, you need to consider the length of the hex bolt. To select the perfect fit, measure the thickness of the materials in which you will fasten the bolts. Select the length that accommodates the thickness of the material.
Assess Thread Type and Pitch: Hex bolts come in distinctive thread types and pitches. The commonly used ones are coarse thread and fine thread. Coarse threads are suitable for most applications. In comparison, fine thread hex bolts have higher thread density, ideal for conditions with high vibrations and heavy loads.
Verify Compliance with Standards: Since you are going to build something meaningful, ensure that the hex bolts you choose comply with industry standards. For instance, Hex bolts that have rolled or cut screw threads are in compliance with the Unified System: Unified National Coarse (UNC) and Unified National Fine (UNF).
Maintenance of Hex Cap Screw Bolt
Regular Inspection
Periodically inspect the hex bolts for signs of wear, damage, rust, or corrosion. This can help you identify issues early and address them before they become more severe.
Cleaning
Clean the hex bolts and the surrounding area to remove dirt, debris, and contaminants. You can use a wire brush, stiff-bristle brush, or compressed air to clean the threads and surfaces.
Corrosion Removal
If you notice rust or corrosion, use a rust remover or penetrating oil to dissolve the rust. Gently scrub the affected areas with a wire brush or abrasive pad to remove the corrosion.
Tightening Check
Check the tightness of the hex bolts regularly, especially in applications where vibrations might cause them to loosen over time. Use an appropriate torque wrench to ensure proper tightening according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Physical Differences Between Hex Head Cap Screws and Hex Bolts
Washer Face
Hex head cap screws have a washer face under their heads. Hex bolts do not have a washer face.
Bearing Surface
In this spec, hex head cap screws have a maximum measurement of total bearing surface runout, which varies based on nominal size and diameter. For hex bolts, this spec only dictates that a hex bolt's diameter must be perpendicular to the axis of the body with a tolerance of 3°for 1" size and smaller, and 2°for greater than 1".
Tolerance & Body Diameter
In general, hex head cap screws are a little more refined and precise than hex bolts. They have tighter tolerances across the board, no matter the size of the part. For example, the minimum body diameter for a ¼" nominal size hex head cap screw is 0.245" and the maximum is 0.250" - a 0.005" difference. Hex bolts have "looser" tolerances and are a bit more lenient in this sense. For example, the minimum body diameter for a ¼" nominal size hex bolt is 0.237" and the maximum is 0.260" - a 0.023" difference.
Material & Grade
Unless otherwise specified, hex head cap screws made of steel should comply with ASTM A449, ASTM A354, or SAE J429. Hex head cap screws made of stainless steel should comply with ASTM F593. Hex bolts made of steel should comply with ASTM A307 Grade A unless otherwise specified. For more information on different bolt grades and their applications, check out this blog.
Our Factory
Ningbo Decheng Industrial Equipment Co., Ltd. is a private company specializing in the production of high-performance, high-temperature, corrosion-resistant, high-strength and other special material fasteners. It was established in July 2019 and is located in Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, China. We provide fasteners and customized parts of various materials and provide small batch, multi-variety business services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is hex cap screw?
Q: What is the difference between a cap bolt and a hex bolt?
Q: What is the difference between a hex screw and a bolt?
Q: What is a hex screw used for?
Q: Why use hex head bolts?
Q: What are the disadvantages of hex bolts?
●Limited Accessibility: The hexagonal head can be challenging to access in tight or hard-to-reach spaces, which may require the use of special tools.
Q: What is another name for a hex bolt?
Q: Is a cap screw a bolt?
Q: What is the difference between a hex bolt and an Allen bolt?
Q: What is the difference between a hex nut and a bolt?
Q: Are hex bolts fully threaded?
Q: How do I know my hex bolt size?
Q: How do you read a hex bolt size?
Q: Are hex bolts metric?
Q: Why use hex bolts?
Q: What does M8 mean on a bolt?
Q: Are hex bolts strong?
Q: What do I need to remove a hex bolt?
Q: What size is a 10mm bolt?
Q: How is hex size measured?
Q: What is the difference between hex and heavy hex bolts?
Q: Why are 12 point bolts used instead of hex bolts?
Q: Why are bolts hex and not square?
Q: Do hex bolts rust?
Q: How do you remove a hex bolt without a key?
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