A hex key or Allen key (also known by various other synonyms) is a tool of hexagonal cross-section used to drive bolts and screws that have a hexagonal socket in the head (internal-wrenching hexagon drive).
The Allen name is a registered trademark, originated by the Allen Manufacturing Company of Hartford, Connecticut circa 1910, and currently owned by Apex Tool Group, LLC. Its genericized use is discouraged by this company. The standard generic name used in catalogs and published books and journals is “hex key”.
Manufacturing methods
Hex socket screw heads are usually made by stamping the head with a die, plasticly deforming the metal. Other ways to generate the hex socket include linear broaching and rotary broaching. Broaching the heads with a linear broach is essentially the metalworking analog of mortising wood with a mortising machine; a hole is drilled and then the corners are broached out. This operation often leaves little telltale curled chips still attached at the bottom of the socket. These are negligible for most applications.
Hex keys are made by imparting the hexagon cross-section to steel wire (for example, with a die), then bending and shearing.
Carbon steel natural colour hex key for hex socket screw
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