What You Need To Know When Selecting Bolts For Your Project
Hex head bolts are very common and used in many different ways. The bolts are available in so many different sizes and materials that there is a hex head bolt for nearly every situation if you know what to look for.
Hex Head Bolts
Hex head bolts are simple bolts made with a six or twelve-point head that allows you to use a wrench or socket on it. The bolt size is expressed using the length, the diameter, and the head size most of the time, and they are available in metric and SAE or standard sizes.
The fasteners are strong and can be used in many different ways, so if you are working on a project that requires hex head bolts, there is probably one available that will fit your needs. Most hardware stores and home centers have a large selection of hex head bolts, but if they don't have what you need, there are fastener suppliers that will more than likely have it or can get it for you.
Bolt Materials
While most hex head bolts are made from steel or steel alloys, you can find bolts made from brass, aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and many other materials. While steel is the most commonly used for most things, sometimes the project requires something different.
Aluminum bolts are often better if they are threading into an aluminum part because they will not strip the thread out as easily. Aluminum bolts are not as strong, so sometimes, the more robust fastener is required no matter what it is threaded into.
Stainless steel bolts are often used outside or for marine projects because they resist corrosion and offer the same strength as standard steel fasteners. Stainless steel hex head bolts are also available in nearly as many sizes and lengths as steel bolts, but they come at a higher cost and may not be affordable for a large project requiring a lot of fasteners.
Hardened Bolts
If your project requires a hardened hex head bolt, you will need to determine what level of hardening is required. Common steel and stainless steel bolts can have several steps of hardening to them, and the head of the bolt will have several lines to indicate that level.
The associate at the store where you are buying hex head bolts can help you select the bolts you need and show you the different levels that are available. It is crucial that you get a bolt with the necessary durability and strength, but if the bolt needs to flex, you may want to go with a mid-grade bolt so it is strong and still has some ability to give or flex.