construction-bolts-banner3

Plain, Zinc, HDG & GR.5 Hex Cap Screws To Meet Your Needs

For More Questions Answered On Bolts
Call Our Sales Professionals At 1-718-589-6225

Questions And Answers On Hex Cap Screws

What Is A Hex Cap Screw?

A hex cap screw is a structural fastener capable of meeting precise tolerances. This type of screw has a hexagonal head and may have a washer face on the underside.

They perform well in various building projects. In many ways, they are similar to hex bolts, which are six-sided construction bolts.

What Are The Advantages Of Hex Cap Screws?

Hex cap screws provide significant advantages in construction projects that require precise tolerances.

This type of fastener often has a washer face on the screw head. This distributes the fastener's load like a washer and eliminates the need for a separate washer.

Hex cap screws are installed with a wrench, and they bear loads well.

What Are Hex Head Cap Screw Dimensions?

The standard diameters of hex head cap screws create a range of sizes between 1/4 inch and 3 inches. These screws have lengths in sizes between 1-1/4 inches and 3-1/2 inches.

Heavy hex head cap screws will have thicker diameters. These heavy-duty sizes are needed in construction settings where large loads must be fastened.

What Are Hex Cap Screws Made From?

Hex cap screws are graded according to the materials used to manufacture them. Manufacturers use different steel alloys, such as low-carbon steel, medium-carbon steel, and alloy steel.

Other differences arise from anti-corrosion finishing treatments. Hex cap screws can be hot-dipped galvanized, plated in stainless steel, or coated in zinc.

What Are Applications Of Hex Cap Screws?

Hex cap screws will meet demands related to precise tolerances and extended bearing. Their material and diameter must be considered when choosing fasteners for light-duty or heavy-duty projects.

In addition to being used for repairs, hex cap screws are excellent fasteners in construction, framing, and woodworking.

How Are Hex Cap Screws Tightened?

Turning the head of a hex cap screw is the correct method for tightening or loosening it. Electric drills or wrenches are appropriate for turning the screw head.

Threading direction determines which way these screws need to be turned. For example, a counterclockwise turn will tighten a left-handed hex cap screw.

Do Hex Cap Screws Need A Washer?

A hex cap screw with a washer face will not need a washer inserted between the screw head and material.

The washer face is essentially a built-in washer beneath the screw head. This surface distributes the force of the tightened screw. In some cases, a washer might be used on the nut end of the screw.

Are Socket Head Cap Screws The Same As Hex Cap Screws?

Hex cap screws and socket head cap screws are distinct types of fasteners. Hex cap screws have six-sided heads that a wrench or ratchet can grip.

A socket head cap screw, however, has a cylindrical head with grooves. Installation involves fitting a hexagonal tool, like an Allen key, into the recessed area of the head.

Are Hex Caps Fully Threaded?

Hex cap screws in sizes up to 1-1/4 inches will have threading along the entire screw shaft in most circumstances.

Hex cap screws in longer sizes will have partial threading. Part of the shaft below the screw head will be smooth metal until it reaches the partially threaded area on the lower shaft.

Are Cap Screws The Same As Hex Bolts?

Hex bolts and cap screws both have hexagonal designs. A hex cap screw differs from a hex bolt because it has a beveled end and sometimes a washer face, unlike a hex bolt.

The method of installation differs between hex bolts and cap screws. Hex bolts are tightened with a nut, but cap screws are tightened by the head.