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A hex key, also commonly referred to as an Allen key, Allen wrench, Alum key or hex wrench, is an essential tool for driving bolts and screws with hexagonal sockets. Its simple, compact design—typically L-shaped or T-shaped—provides effective torque control, making it a staple tool in both professional and household applications worldwide.

The hex key’s unique 6-sided tip fits securely into hexagonal socket screws, allowing for the application of significant torque without slippage. This straightforward design reduces wear on fasteners and minimises the risk of rounding, contributing to the hex key’s popularity in a variety of applications, from furniture assembly to precision mechanical work.

These tool are widely used because they are lightweight, easy to store, and affordable. Their compatibility with a vast range of hex socket screws and bolts also them a go-to tool across industries. The precise fit also enhances safety, reducing the risk of tool slippage or damage to the fastener.

## **Types of Hex Key**

Hex keys come in several types, each with specific advantages for different applications.

- **L-Shaped Hex Keys:** The most common type, L-shaped hex keys offer versatility with a hexagonal tip on each end. This design allows users to alternate between the short and long arm for leverage or to access tight spaces.
- **T-Shaped Hex Keys:** T-shaped hex keys, or T-bar Allen keys, have a crossbar or T-handle, providing a better grip and improved torque. They are particularly useful in applications requiring consistent, high-torque fastening.
- **Folding Allen Key Sets:** Similar to a multi-tool, folding hex key sets feature multiple sizes housed within a compact, foldable casing. This design is ideal for portability and convenience, allowing users to carry multiple sizes in a pocket or tool kit.

### **Other Types**

Expanding on other hex key variations, including:

- **Ball-End Hex Keys:** Ball-end hex keys offer the advantage of a rounded tip, enabling use at an angle—typically up to 30 degrees. This flexibility is useful in tight or awkward spaces, such as when fastening screws at difficult angles.
- **Long-Arm and Short-Arm Hex Keys:** Long-arm hex keys provide increased leverage, allowing for greater torque, while short-arm keys are compact and ideal for reaching into tight spots. The choice between long and short arms depends on the specific needs of the task.

## **Surface Coatings of Hex Keys**

Surface coatings on hex keys enhance durability and prevent corrosion, which is important for tools exposed to high moisture or harsh environments. Common hex key coating and their benefits include:

- **Black Oxide Coating:** This is a popular finish for hex keys due to its corrosion resistance and anti-reflective properties. Black oxide-treated hex keys are suitable for general-purpose use, offering moderate protection against rust and moisture. The coating also provides a slight texture, which can improve grip and prevent slippage, particularly in oily or damp conditions.
- **Chrome Plating:** Chrome plating is a highly durable coating that offers superior corrosion resistance, making it ideal for hex keys exposed to outdoor or wet environments. This coating creates a hard, reflective surface that resists rust, moisture, and chemical exposure.
- **Nickel Plated Coating:** Nickel plating provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability, similar to chrome plating, but with a slightly different look and feel. Nickel-plated hex keys are often used in applications requiring a tough, protective layer that can withstand repeated use and contact with moisture or chemicals. The nickel finish offers a smooth, low-friction surface that makes the keys easier to insert and remove, especially from close-fitting hex socket screws.
- **Phosphate Coating:** Commonly applied in a dark grey or matte finish, this type of coating provides a moderate level of corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface. It is often used on hex keys for automotive applications, as they excel in reducing light reflection, which can be useful in precision settings.

## **Hex Key Sizes**

### **Metric vs. Imperial Sizes**

Metric hex keys are measured in millimetres and are typically used in equipment and machinery manufactured in regions that follow the International System of Units (SI), such as Europe and Asia. On the other hand, imperial hex keys are measured in inches and are often used in the United States and other regions that adhere to the imperial system.

Choosing between metric and imperial hex keys is crucial because even slight discrepancies in size can lead to issues such as rounding or stripping of the fastener. For example, using a 5mm hex key in a 3/16” hex socket may seem close, but this small difference can easily damage the socket, especially under high torque.

### **Common Sizes and Choosing the Right Fit**

Hex keys are available in a wide range of sizes, from very small (e.g., 1.3mm or 0.5”) to larger diameters (e.g., 24mm or 3/8”). Common metric sizes include 2mm, 4mm, 5mm, and 8mm, while typical imperial sizes include 1/8”, 5/32”, and 1/4”.

Getting the correct size is essential for effective torque application. Using an undersized key risks stripping the fastener head, while an oversized key won’t fit properly. In cases where high torque is needed, such as with automotive or machinery components, having the exact size match is vital to ensure stability and minimise wear on both the tool and the fastener.

## **Using Hex Keys Correctly**

Proper use of hex wrenches enhances safety and extends the tool’s lifespan. When using a one for your application, keep the following in mind:

### **Inserting the Hex Keys**

Always ensure the hex key is fully inserted into the [hex socket screw](https://au.rs-online.com/web/c/fasteners-fixings/screws-bolts/socket-screws/) before applying force to ensure maximum surface contact between the tool and fastener, which distributes torque evenly. When only partly inserting your hex key, this can lead to slippage or rounding, especially with smaller hex keys. Furthermore, full alignment not only maximises torque but prevents damage to both the wrench and fastener.

### **Applying Torque**

For L-shaped hex keys, use the longer arm for extra leverage when loosening fasteners, as it allows for greater torque application. When tightening, switch to the shorter arm for more controlled force and reduced risk of over-torquing. 

For applications requiring a consistent amount of torque, such as in electronics or automotive work, consider using a T-handle hex key or torque wrench to achieve precise torque settings without damaging components.

### **Avoiding Over-Tightening**

Over-tightening can strip the screw socket, round off the hex key edges, or damage the [hexagon bolt fastener](https://au.rs-online.com/web/c/fasteners-fixings/nuts-washers/hex-nuts/). To avoid over-torquing, tighten only until secure. 

In critical applications where specific torque is required, a torque wrench or hex key with a torque-limiting feature can help prevent accidental over-tightening.

## **Industry Applications**

Hex keys are indispensable in numerous fields due to their versatility and reliability. Some common industry applications include:

- **Automotive:** Used for assembling and maintaining vehicle components, hex keys secure bolts and fasteners in tight spaces where precision and compact tools are essential.
- **Furniture Assembly:** Many flat-pack furniture kits include hex keys, as their small size is perfect for fitting into compact spaces, making assembly easy for consumers.
- **Manufacturing and Construction:** In both light and heavy-duty applications, hex keys are used to secure machinery components, often in hard-to-reach areas requiring tools with a small footprint.
- **Electronics:** Hex keys are commonly used in electronics for assembling small devices and accessing internal components, where traditional tools are too large or cumbersome to use.

## **Your Trusted Hex Keys Supplier & Manufacturer**

RS is a trusted supplier and distributor of high-quality hex keys in Australia, providing a comprehensive selection of hex keys and wrench sets to suit diverse needs. With options from leading brands like [Wera](https://au.rs-online.com/web/b/wera/) and [Bondhus](https://au.rs-online.com/web/b/bondhus/), we offer both metric and imperial sizes to meet industry standards across various applications.

Our range includes individual hex keys and full hex wrench sets available in multiple coatings, such as black oxide and chrome plating, ensuring durability and corrosion resistance for every environment. Whether you need standard hex keys for general use or specialty tools for professional applications, RS AU has the quality and selection to meet your requirements.

Explore our catalogue today to find the ideal hex keys, Allen key sets, and more — designed to deliver reliability and precision in every task. For more details on our delivery services, please check our [delivery page](https://au.rs-online.com/web/content/support/all-articles/delivery).



Explore our selection of hex keys from trusted global brands. Shop for hex key sets at RS AU today and get free delivery on orders over $40.

Hex Keys & Allen Keys | Allen Wrench, Hex Wrench & Sets

Hex Keys

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<p>Long reach Allen keys are essential for any DIY enthusiast or professional. These handy tools make it easy to access hard-to-reach places and can help you get jobs done faster and easier. Whether you're a beginner looking to tackle a simple project or an experienced tradesperson, having the right long reach hex key set in your toolkit will make all the difference.</p><h2>How Does Long Reach Hex Key Set Work</h2><p>Have you ever been in the middle of a project and realized you need the right tool to complete it? Long-reach hex key sets are an essential item to have on hand when tackling any project. This multi-tool type offers various sizes and lengths that can provide easy access to hard-to-reach areas.</p><p>A long-reach hex key set is designed with flexible, angled tips that allow them to effectively loosen or tighten screws in tight spots or awkward angles. The set typically comes with several pieces, each varying in size, shape and length, so you can find the best suited for your task. Some sets even contain extra-long keys for reaching into those particularly tough corners! With the help of this handy collection, you'll be able to tackle all sorts of projects without having to worry about not having the right size tool.</p><h2>What Are The Benefits of Long Reach Allen Key Set?</h2><p>Long reach Allen keys are designed with an extended reach to allow users access to fasteners in tight areas. Here is why you should consider purchasing a long reach key:</p><ul><li>The extra length of a long reach hex means it can fit into tighter spaces than standard-sized models, making them ideal for working on objects in confined areas, such as electronic components and engines.</li><li>Long reach hex keys boast exceptional durability and strength when tightening bolts or nuts. This makes them perfect for high-torque applications where standard Allen wrenches may not be suitable.</li><li>Additionally, their extended length allows you to apply more force than you would typically be able to with a standard-length wrench, making it easier to loosen even the most stubborn fasteners.</li><li>Finally, they come in various sizes and lengths, so you can find the perfect fit for whatever project you are working on.</li></ul><h3>Types of Long Reach Hex Keys</h3><p>There are three primary long reach hex keys: handles, T-handles and fold-up sets.</p><p>Handles are single pieces and feature a small handle at one end with an Allen key shape on the other. T-handles feature a more oversized handle shaped like a 'T', making them easier to grip and giving more leverage when tightening or loosening screws. For those who require maximum portability, fold-up sets offer multiple sizes in one convenient set that folds up into its holder for easy storage and transportation.</p><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>Long reach Allen keys and hex keys by RS offer a variety of advantages compared to regular-length versions. They provide access to hard-to-reach areas, help reduce strain on your hands and arms, are easy to use and store, and can be made from various materials. With all these benefits in mind, it's worth considering investing in a set of long-reach Allen for your next job.</p>

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2mm Allen Keys | RS

<p>Allen keys or hex keys are a great alternative option available out there for traditional screwdrivers or wrenches. They come along with a L-shape, which you can use for both installation as well as removal of fasteners that come with a hexagonal head. If you are looking for 2mm allen/hex key sets, you are at the right place.</p><h2>How do 2mm Allen keys work?</h2><p>With a few exceptions, Allen keys function similarly to other screwdrivers as well as wrenches. By inserting one of the ends into a fastener with just a hexagonal socket head as well as rotating it, you may use them. The fastener may be tightened or removed by rotating the Allen key clockwise, while the opposite is true when doing so.</p><p>You could see that one side of a conventional Allen key is longer than this when looking at it closely. Allen keys have two different-length sides and are formed like the letter. More torque will be produced by rotating the long arm, making it simpler to attach or detach normally difficult-to-remove fasteners. On the other hand, you can fit the Allen key in tight locations by twisting the short arm.</p><h2>Are allen keys and hex keys the same?</h2><p>Although there is always some chance of misunderstanding whenever two labels are used for the same thing, in this instance it's very clear-cut - hex keysand Allen keys are all in fact fundamentally the same thing. Hence why do we have even two common names for a single, quite basic kind of hand tool?</p><p>As you may have already guessed, the phrase "hex key" is the general name for these common wrenches, while the name "Allen" is a registered brand. However, in everyday speech, the line between both these gradually been almost totally blurred. The usage of phrases like "Hoover" and "vacuum cleaner" or any other instances where a well-known registered trademark name has crossed over into widespread use as a general label are quite comparable to this.</p><h2>Get your 2mm allen or 2mm hex key set from us</h2><p>If you are searching for a 2mm allen key grub screw, look no further as we got the best selection of products available for you. Our selection impresses anyone who wishes to buy an allen key set or hex keys for applications. Browse our online store now and get what you are looking for, also free delivery available.</p>

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Bondhus Hex Keys, Bonhus Ball End Hex Key Sets | RS

<p>If you are interested in purchasing hex keys, you may take a look at Bondhus Hex Keys without keeping a doubt in mind. Bondhus manufactures highest quality and practical hex keys for anyone who wishes to buy them. You will also be able to get Bondhus hex keys in different shapes. Take a look at options available out there and stick to the best one that can cater to your needs.</p><p><strong>What are Bondhus Hex Keys? </strong></p><p>Hex keys are also known as Allen keys. This is a small handheld product, which you can use to drive screws and bolts that come along with a hexagonal socket. You will need to use the appropriately sized Bondhus Hex Keys to get your job done.</p><p>When you take a look at the history of Hex keys, you will figure out that they have been out there for quite some time. If you have to deal with screws or bolts with hexagonal shape, it would be a good idea to purchase a Bondhus ball and hex key set.</p><h2>Ow can L & T shape hex keys benefit you?</h2><p>When you want to drive different types of hexagonal shaped screws or bolts, you will come across the need to use differently shaped hex keys as well. The L & T shaped hex keys will be able to provide much-needed assistance to you with that. In a Bondhus hex key set, it is possible to find all these hex keys. For example, when you need to use a L shape hex key, you just need to take it out of the set and use. If you need T shaped hex keys, you may proceed with buying a Bondhus T handle set.</p><p>Hex keys come along with six pressure points. Since there is a higher number of pressure points, you will find it as an easy task to grip the key when you try to drive in the screw or drive it out. In case if you are trying to drive in or out the keys of a larger piece of equipment, furniture, or a machine, these keys can provide an extra helping hand. In other words, you can easily stay away from fatigue and get your work done quite efficiently. You will surely fall in love with the functionality offered by these keys as well. Take a look at our store and buy the best Bondhus Hex Keys available to you.</p>

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