The Ultimate Guide To Hex Head Screw Feeders

Hex head screws are threaded fasteners with six-sided heads, allowing for greater torque than traditional circular screws. They are installed or removed with socket wrenches and do not require a nut for fastening. Hex head screws come in a variety of materials, including steel, stainless steel, plastic, bronze, and brass, each with its own unique properties and applications. They are also available in different grades, such as Grade 5, Grade 8, and Grade 9, indicating varying levels of strength and suitability for different environments and applications. Hex head screws can be fully or partially threaded, making them versatile for different types of surfaces and providing a non-loosening hold.

Hex Head Screw Materials

Hex head screws are available in a variety of materials, each with its own unique properties and applications. Here is an overview of the commonly used materials for hex head screws:

Steel:

Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, with added carbon to improve its strength and fracture resistance. Steel hex head screws come in different grades, such as Grade 2, Grade 5, Grade 8, and Grade 9, each offering varying levels of strength and suitability for different applications. Steel screws are commonly used in high-stress areas and can be treated with coatings for added corrosion resistance.

Stainless Steel:

Stainless steel is a type of steel that contains a minimum of 11% chromium, which prevents rusting and provides heat-resistant properties. Hex head screws made from stainless steel are often used in harsh environments and are available in different grades, such as 18-8, 316, A2, and A4, with varying levels of corrosion and chemical resistance.

Plastic:

Plastic hex head screws are made from materials like nylon or enriched plastic and offer a cost-effective, lightweight alternative to metal screws. They are often used in areas where weight and insulation are concerns and can be adjusted to limit vibration and noise. Plastic screws are also resistant to water, oils, and corrosion.

Bronze:

Bronze hex head screws are stronger than brass and exhibit excellent corrosion resistance to saltwater, gases, and sewage. They are non-magnetic, electrically conductive, and commonly used in marine environments, high-heat areas, and electrical installations.

Brass:

Brass hex head screws are corrosion-resistant and non-magnetic. They are frequently used in marine equipment and underwater construction due to their ability to withstand foul weather and high-UV environments.

Zinc:

Zinc-plated hex head screws provide corrosion resistance in wet environments. A zinc coating helps improve the durability of screws and can give them a golden sheen, known as zinc yellow.

Hex Head Screw Finishes

Hex head screws are available in a variety of finishes, each with its own advantages and use cases. Here is an overview of some common finishes for hex head screws:

Zinc Plated

Zinc plating is a common finish for hex head screws, providing corrosion resistance and durability in wet environments. It is often used for outdoor applications or in areas with high humidity.

Hot-Dipped Galvanized

Hot-dipped galvanizing is a process where the screw is coated in a thick layer of zinc, making it more corrosion-resistant than zinc plating alone. This finish is suitable for use with pressure-treated wood and in harsh environments.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel hex head screws are known for their corrosion resistance and strength. They are often used in marine environments, but may show signs of severe pitting corrosion when submerged in saltwater that lacks free oxygen.

Brass

Brass is an electrically conductive and corrosion-resistant material often used for hex head screws. It is non-magnetic and is commonly used for marine equipment or underwater construction.

Bronze

Bronze is a stronger material than brass, offering corrosion resistance to saltwater, gases, and sewage. It is non-magnetic and electrically conductive, making it suitable for marine environments, high-heat applications, and electrical installations.

Black Oxide

Black oxide-finished hex head screws are corrosion-resistant in dry environments. They are often used in indoor applications or areas with low humidity.

Chrome Plated

Chrome plating provides excellent corrosion resistance and extends the wear and resilience of hex head screws. This finish is ideal for environments with high friction and moisture, such as machinery or equipment assembly.

Plain Finish

Plain finish, or uncoated screws, have not been treated to prevent rust. They may have a light coating of oil for temporary protection but are typically used in applications where corrosion is not a concern.

Other Finishes

In addition to the finishes mentioned above, hex head screws can also be found in various colours and specialty finishes, such as blue phosphate or yellow zinc. These finishes may be chosen for specific applications, such as identifying metric-sized items or achieving a particular aesthetic.

Hex Head Screw Lengths

For example, the Simpson Strong-Tie #9 x 1-1/2 inch 1/4-Hex Drive, Strong-Drive SD Connector Screw is a common option for various applications. This screw has a length of 1-1/2 inches, excluding the head, and is available in packs of 100. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use and can be used with wood or metal connectors.

Another example is the FastenMaster TimberLOK Structural Wood Screw, which comes in different lengths, including 4, 6, 8, and 10 inches. These screws are specifically designed for structural wood applications and provide strong holding power. They are available in packs of 50 and come with a black finish.

When choosing hex head screw lengths, it is important to consider the specific requirements of your project, including the type of material being fastened, the thickness of the material, and the amount of holding strength needed. Additionally, the grade and material of the screw should also be considered, as they can affect the overall performance and suitability of the screw for the intended application.

Hex Head Screw Brands

Hex head screws are used in a variety of applications, from machinery and construction to tight spaces and dirty environments. They offer more torque than traditional circular head screws and are suitable for use in both commercial and industrial projects.

When it comes to brands, here are some popular options:

Amazon

Amazon offers a wide range of hex head screws, including those made from stainless steel, zinc, and brass. Various pack sizes are available, ranging from 50 to 1,160 pieces.

The Home Depot

The Home Depot carries hex head screws from brands like Simpson Strong-Tie and Everbilt. Simpson Strong-Tie offers connector screws with hex heads in various pack sizes, while Everbilt provides hex galvanized lag screws.

AP Products

AP Products offers hex washer head screws in white, which are suitable for gutter and downspout installation. They are available in packs of 50.

DYWISHKEY

DYWISHKEY provides a 410 stainless steel hex washer head self-drilling sheet metal screws assortment kit, which includes 320 pieces.

LIONMAX

LIONMAX specializes in metal roofing screws with hex heads. Their products feature a rubber washer and a sharp point, making them ideal for metal-to-wood siding applications.

These brands offer a variety of hex head screw options that cater to different needs and applications. Whether it's for construction, machinery, or simply fastening materials together, these brands provide a range of choices in terms of materials, sizes, and pack quantities.

Hex Head Screw Applications

Hex head screws are used in a variety of applications across commercial, residential, and industrial projects. They are a common threaded fastener with hexagonal heads, which are six-sided tops without indentations. This design allows for greater torque than traditional circular screws and they can be installed or removed with a wrench or a screwdriver (if they are a special combi screw).

Machinery

Hex head screws are often used for fastening and disassembly in machinery projects and equipment assembly. The six-point design allows users to achieve more torque than with a traditional circular head screw.

Construction

Hex head screws are used in construction projects, especially those involving steel and wood. They are also used in tight spaces, as the six access points make them easier to install and remove than traditional screws.

Dirty Applications

Hex screws with solid heads are ideal for dirty applications where debris and buildup could compromise the integrity of the screw over time. With no opening, there is no chance of clogging, and they are easy to wipe down and shine.

Woodworking

Hex washer head screws are often used for fastening wood to wood due to their strong grip and stability. They can also be used to attach metal to wood, making them versatile for various projects.

Self-Drilling Applications

Some hex washer head screws are self-drilling, which means they can drill their own holes in thin gauge steel, fiberglass, or wood. This makes them useful for quick installations where pre-drilling is not possible or desired.

Furniture Assembly

Hex washer head screws can be used in furniture assembly, providing a strong hold and resistance to stripping.

Deck Building

Hex washer head screws are commonly used in deck building due to their strength and durability, making them ideal for outdoor construction projects.

Securing Wall Hangings

For heavy wall hangings or fixtures, hex washer head screws can provide a robust anchor in the wall.

Attaching Hardware

These screws are often used to attach hardware such as handles, hooks, and hinges to doors or cabinets.

Building Shelves

When building shelves, hex washer head screws can provide a sturdy hold, ensuring that the shelf can bear weight without loosening over time.

Constructing Fences

Hex washer head screws are often used in fence construction due to their strength and durability. They can withstand weather conditions and heavy loads.

Frequently asked questions