Understanding Standard Hex Head Screw Sizes

hexagon head screw sizes

Hex head screws are a type of fastener with a hexagonal head and a washer face on the bearing surface. They are commonly used in applications where precise tolerances are required, such as in OEM applications. Hex head screws come in a variety of sizes, with lengths ranging from 1/8 inch to 36 inches. The screw length does not include the head of the screw. Hex head screws can be purchased in various materials, including steel, stainless steel, brass, and silicon bronze, and with different finishes, such as plain, hot-dipped galvanised, and zinc. They are often sold in packs of 25, 50, or 100 screws.

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Hex head screw lengths

  • Over 1" to 2 1/2" inclusive
  • Over 2 1/2" to 4" inclusive
  • Over 4" to 6" inclusive

For example, Grade-5 and Grade-8 hex cap screws made from medium carbon steel or medium carbon alloy steel, respectively, can have lengths ranging from 1/4" to 1 1/2" in diameter, covering all the length ranges mentioned above.

The Home Depot offers hex head screws in various lengths, including 1-1/2", 1/8", 3/4", and 3/8". Additionally, specific hex head screw lengths are available from other manufacturers, such as the FastenMaster TimberLOK structural wood screws, which come in 4", 6", 8", and 10" lengths.

When selecting hex head screw lengths, it is important to consider factors such as the application, material, and specific measurements of the project to ensure a secure and proper fit.

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Hex head screw grades

Grade 8 is a common grade for hex head screws and is widely available from hardware retailers. Grade 8 hex head screws are often fully threaded and made from stainless steel, offering a plain finish. They come in a variety of sizes, including:

  • 1/2-13 x 1-1/2-inch
  • 1/4-20 x 1-inch
  • 3/8-16 x 1-inch
  • 5/16-18 x 1-inch
  • 3/8-24 x 1-1/4-inch
  • 7/16-20 x 1-1/2-inch
  • 5/8-18 x 2-inch
  • 3/8-16 x 3-inch
  • 7/16-20 x 1-1/4-inch
  • 5/8-11 x 2-inch
  • 1/2-20 x 2-inch
  • 7/16-14 x 1-1/2-inch
  • 1/2-20 x 2-1/2-inch
  • 7/16-20 x 3-1/2-inch
  • 5/8-18 x 1-1/2-inch

It is important to select the appropriate grade and size of hex head screw for your specific application to ensure the fastener can withstand the required forces and loads.

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Hex head screw washers

When using hexagon head screws, it is important to consider the use of washers. Washers are thin plates with a hole in the middle, placed under the head of a screw or nut to distribute the load and protect the surface. They are commonly used with hexagon head screws to increase the stability and strength of the fastening.

There are various types of washers available, each serving a specific purpose. For example, some washers are designed to provide a bearing surface, while others are meant to act as a spring or locking device. In the context of hexagon head screw sizes, it is essential to select a washer that is compatible with the screw size and type.

When choosing hex head screw washers, it is important to consider the material. Common materials for washers include steel, stainless steel, and zinc. Steel washers offer strength and durability, while stainless steel washers provide excellent corrosion resistance, making them suitable for outdoor applications. Zinc-plated washers offer a balance between strength and corrosion protection, and are often used in general-purpose applications. It is also worth noting that some washers come with special coatings, such as zinc plating or galvanization, to enhance their performance and protect against corrosion.

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Hex head screw self-drilling

Hex head self-drilling screws are ideal for attaching signs to metal structures for the long term. They cut their own holes, eliminating the need to select the correct drill bit, and then tap their own threads. Once the screw is in place, it will have replaced the metal it removed to ensure the structure is not affected. Hex head self-drilling screws are also used for metal-to-metal fastening, typically in medium-gauge metal-to-metal framing.

Self-drilling screws are available in a range of materials, including 410 stainless steel, zinc, and black oxide. They also come in a variety of head styles, such as hex washer, flat head, pan head, and wafer head. The length of the screws varies, with options ranging from 1/2" to 2-1/2". When purchasing self-drilling screws, it is important to consider the appropriate length and material for your specific application.

Self-drilling hex head screws can be purchased in packs of 25 or 100, and they typically include a hex head driver bit. This allows for easy installation, as all you need is a drill to get started. Some common brands that offer self-drilling hex head screws include LH Dottie, Amazon, and The Home Depot.

When selecting self-drilling hex head screws, it is important to consider the type of material you will be drilling into and the specific dimensions required for your project. Additionally, the drive type and head style of the screws should align with the tools and hardware you plan to use for installation.

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Hex head screw materials

Hex head screws are made from a variety of materials, depending on the application. For example, a residential or commercial project might require a visually appealing finish, whereas a heavy-duty outdoor industrial project would need a screw made from a high-resistance, anti-corrosive material.

Screw materials include:

  • Hot-dipped galvanized steel
  • Low and medium carbon steel
  • Brass, bronze and copper alloy steel
  • Zinc, chrome or nickel-plated steel
  • 18-8 stainless steel
  • 316 stainless steel
  • A2 stainless steel
  • A4 stainless steel
  • Plastic
  • Bronze
  • Brass

Hex head screws are also available in different grades, which indicate their strength. For example, Grade 2 steel is about half as strong as medium-strength grades, while Grade 9 is the heaviest-duty and strongest steel.

The type of coating on a hex head screw will also affect its corrosion resistance. For example, black oxide screws are corrosion-resistant in dry environments, while zinc-plated screws resist corrosion in wet environments. Hot-dipped galvanized coatings provide even more corrosion resistance than zinc alone.

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Frequently asked questions

Hexagon head screws come in a variety of sizes, including #6, #8, #9, #10, and #14. The length of the screws can vary from 3/4 inch to 36 inches.

Hexagon head screws are commonly used in applications where precise tolerances are required, such as OEM applications. They are also used for attaching signs to metal structures, in furniture, and in construction.

Hexagon head screws come in various grades, including Grade-2, Grade-5, and Grade-8. Grade-2 screws are made from low or medium carbon steel and are used in non-critical applications. Grade-5 screws are made from medium carbon steel and have higher tensile strength. Grade-8 screws have the highest tensile strength and are designed for high-stress applications.

Hexagon head screws can be purchased from various retailers, including Amazon, Home Depot, and specialty hardware stores such as AFT Fasteners and Eberbach Corporation.

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