A bolt's size is classified based on several dimensions, including diameter, length of the shank, thread pitch, grade, thread length, and head size. The standard, internationally recognized descriptions of bolt sizes are in inches, but they can also be specified in metric using millimeters. The numbers on bolts, such as #6, #8, etc., refer to the diameter of the bolt, with higher numbers indicating larger diameters. When selecting a bolt, it is essential to consider the specific application and any special requirements. Additionally, different regions may have different standards for bolt sizes, with the US using the Imperial system and most of the world using the Metric system.
What You'll Learn
- The five-point screw is likely a Torx screw
- To remove it, you can use a male bit or create a custom tool using a pen and a lighter
- The size of a bolt is classified by its diameter, length of the shank, thread pitch, grade, thread length, and head size
- Bolts are specified in metric (millimeters) and standard, internationally-recognized descriptions (inches)
- Common M5 bolt sizes include M5 Low Head Socket Cap, M5 Flat Head Socket Cap, and M5 Phil '+' Flat Head
The five-point screw is likely a Torx screw
Torx screws are commonly used in the automotive and electronics industries due to their resistance to cam-out, extended bit life, and reduced operator fatigue. They are also often used as a security measure, as the drivers are relatively uncommon. For example, pentalobe screws, a type of five-point tamper-resistant screw, are used by Apple in their products.
There are various sizes of Torx screwdrivers, including T5, which is used for opening MacBooks and iPhones. It's important to use the correct size screwdriver to avoid slipping and potentially causing damage to the screw or device.
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To remove it, you can use a male bit or create a custom tool using a pen and a lighter
Removing a 5-point bolt can be a challenging task, especially if it is broken or stuck. Here are some methods you can use to remove it using a male bit or a custom tool made from a pen and a lighter:
Using a Male Bit:
- Center-punch the bolt: Use a hammer to mark the center of the bolt with a center punch. This helps you drill into the center of the bolt, reducing the risk of damaging its threads.
- Drill a pilot hole: Use a left-handed drill bit that matches the size of your bolt. Left-handed bits are threaded in the opposite direction, so they will help prevent the bolt from tightening further as you drill.
- Use an extracting kit: Choose an extracting bit that fits snugly into the hole you drilled. Tap the extracting bit gently with a hammer, then use a socket or T-handle to turn it counterclockwise. This will help loosen and remove the bolt.
- Remove metal filings: After removing the bolt, use a magnet or compressed air to clean up any metal filings or shavings that may have accumulated during the process.
Creating a Custom Tool with a Pen and Lighter:
- Prepare the pen: Remove the ink cartridge from the pen and take apart the pen casing, leaving only the plastic tube.
- Heat the pen with a lighter: Hold the plastic tube of the pen with a pair of pliers and heat it with the lighter. Be careful not to burn yourself. The plastic will become soft and pliable as it heats up.
- Shape the plastic: Once the plastic is soft, carefully shape it with your hands or a pair of pliers to create a flat, wide surface at one end of the tube. This will act as a handle. At the other end, shape the plastic into a narrow, flat tip that can fit into the slots of the 5-point bolt.
- Let it cool: Allow the plastic to cool and harden. You now have a custom tool that can be inserted into the slots of the 5-point bolt for removal.
- Turn the bolt: Insert the custom tool into the slots of the bolt and turn it counterclockwise to loosen and remove the bolt. You may need to apply some force, but be careful not to strip the plastic.
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The size of a bolt is classified by its diameter, length of the shank, thread pitch, grade, thread length, and head size
The size of a bolt is a precise specification, and it is important to get it right when assembling machinery, equipment, furniture, and other items. The size of a bolt is classified by its diameter, length of the shank, thread pitch, grade, thread length, and head size.
The diameter of a bolt is the first dimension used to describe a bolt size. This is the width of the bolt shaft, or shank, and it is usually measured in millimetres.
The length of the shank is the measurement from where the shank meets the head of the bolt to the very tip of the fastener. This is different from the thread length, which is the length of the threaded portion of the bolt.
The thread pitch is the distance between threads, expressed in millimetres and measured along the length of the fastener. It describes how fine the threads are. For example, a thread pitch of 1.5 means that the distance between one thread and the next is 1.5mm.
The grade of a bolt is determined by the type of metal used in its manufacturing, as indicated by the bolt's head markings.
Finally, the head size and shape of the bolt are important specifications. While the most common bolt head is hex (six-sided), some applications require a four-sided square head or the dome-shaped head of a carriage bolt.
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Bolts are specified in metric (millimeters) and standard, internationally-recognized descriptions (inches)
Bolts are specified in metric (millimetres) and standard, internationally recognised descriptions (inches). Metric bolts are referenced using "M" sizes, for example, M3, M8, and M12. The size of a metric bolt is specified using pitch, diameter, and length in millimetres. For instance, in M8-1.0*20, the "M" means Metric thread designation, the digit 8 refers to the nominal diameter of the bolt shaft in millimetres, 1.0 refers to the pitch, and 20 refers to the length. The bolt dimension can also be expressed in imperial units.
Diameter refers to the width of the bolt shank, excluding the bolt head. The defined diameter of metric bolts is slightly larger than the actual diameter of the bolt shaft. So an M8 bolt would have a diameter that is slightly under 8mm.
Pitch is the measurement between the apex of adjacent threads on the bolt's shank, equal to the ratio of threads to unit length. Metric bolts are available with either coarse or fine thread pitches, with some offering extra fine thread pitch options. Metric bolts with a coarse thread pitch have more threads per inch than comparable imperial bolts.
The length of a metric bolt is measured and defined in the same way as imperial, inch-based bolts and fasteners. For socket head, pan head, button head, and hex head bolts, the length is measured from the chamfered edge to the undercut of the head, excluding the bolt head. For flat head bolts, the length includes the height of the bolt head, and for dome head bolts, the length is measured from the highest point on the curved head.
It is important to use the correct size spanner or allen key to avoid slipping and potentially causing damage to the nut or bolt by rounding off the edges.
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Common M5 bolt sizes include M5 Low Head Socket Cap, M5 Flat Head Socket Cap, and M5 Phil '+' Flat Head
M5 bolts are a type of metric socket head cap screw, with a nominal size of M5. They are typically available in a variety of designs, including:
- M5 Low Head Socket Cap: This type of M5 bolt has a low-profile dome-shaped head and is suitable for applications where clearance is limited.
- M5 Flat Head Socket Cap: Featuring a flat head and a countersunk design, these bolts are ideal for creating a flush mount and are often used in tools and dies.
- M5 Phil + Flat Head: M5 bolts with a Phil + Flat Head combine a Phillips drive style with a flat head, offering convenience and a smooth appearance.
These common M5 bolt sizes offer distinct advantages depending on the application. For instance, the M5 Flat Head Socket Cap is ideal for creating a smooth, finished look, while the M5 Low Head Socket Cap is well-suited for situations where space is constrained. Additionally, the M5 Phil + Flat Head offers the familiar Phillips drive style, making it a convenient choice for everyday fastening needs.
M5 bolts are available in various materials, including stainless steel, alloy steel, and zinc-plated steel. They are used in a wide range of applications, from precision assembly work to light fastening applications. When selecting M5 bolts, it is important to consider factors such as tensile strength, corrosion resistance, and the specific requirements of your project.
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Frequently asked questions
A 5-point bolt is a type of fastener with a star-shaped head that has five points. It is also known as a Torx screw.
To measure the size of a 5-point bolt, you will need to determine the bolt's diameter, length of the shank, thread pitch, grade, thread length, and head size. The standard measurement for bolt sizes is in inches, but they can also be specified in metric using millimeters.
To remove a 5-point bolt, you will need a female Torx screwdriver or bit that matches the size of the bolt head. These are available in various sizes, so it is important to select the correct one to avoid damaging the bolt or the object it is attached to.
Coarse threads and fine threads refer to the pitch of the threads on the bolt. Coarse threads have a larger distance between each thread, while fine threads have a smaller distance, resulting in a higher number of threads per inch. Metric bolts typically specify the thread pitch, but if it is omitted, it indicates a coarse thread.
Yes, you can use a screw size chart for bolts as they follow similar sizing standards. However, it is important to refer to specific application requirements to ensure compatibility.