Allen Key

Traditionally, screwdrivers are your go-to tool for screwing or unscrewing fasteners. However, not all fasteners and bolts are built the same. Take hex screws, for example, that features a hexagonal shape and can only come undone by a hex key, also known as an Allen key. Hex keys are the most suitable tool for loosening or tightening hex screws. Needless to say, keeping a hex key set in your toolbox, among other hand tools, is essential, especially if you're a professional working in the industry. Beta Tools offer some of the best and most durable Allen key sets in Australia.

Six contact surfaces on Allen key:

The "hex" in hex keys suggests 6, which indicates that the key touches 6 points on the hex screws to loosen or tighten it.

Hex key creates torque upon being used:

A torque is necessary to work on a fastener. The Allen key comes in an L shape, which means you have to hold the long arm (the handle) of the key and twist it around the shorter end. This creates the torque needed for tightening or loosening the screws and getting the job done.

Hex key sets can be used in compact spaces:

Often, you could be required to reach small and confined spaces where larger tools like conventional screwdrivers or wrenches won't reach. Hex Keys are designed to reach compact spaces, such as in furniture.

Hex keys are also known as Allen wrenches:

The reason why the name "Allen" got associated with the hex keys is that in the early 1900s, the Allen Manufacturing Company based in Connecticut manufactured their own branded hex key and named it Allen wrench. The name and the product gained enough popularity that the word Allen is now attached to the tool itself. Although, hex keys themselves have been around since the 1800s. In 1860, there were several patents for hexagonal-shaped tools with six points of contact in the U.S.A. But it was in the 20th century that hex keys became an everyday tool. Now it is widely used for commercial and consumer purposes.

Beta Tools Quality Hex Keys

Beta Tools can provide you with hex keys of different shapes and sizes, all of which cater to different needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much weight can a heavy duty jack stand hold?

Capacity varies by model and is stated on each product page. Check the rating for the specific stand you are using, and always work in a matched pair.

Do I need 3 tonne or 6 tonne jack stands?

Work from the weight that will sit on the pair of stands rather than the vehicle’s total weight, then allow a margin above that figure.

Should jack stands always be used in pairs?

Yes. A matched pair set to the same height spreads the load evenly and keeps the vehicle level while you work.

Can a vehicle be left on jack stands overnight?

Stands are made to hold a static load, so a longer job is fine on level, solid ground. Check the vehicle is still sitting square each time you return to it.

What working height do I need for a truck or 4WD?

Measure from the ground to your support point with the wheels off. The tallest 3010H and 3010V models reach 1077 mm and 1090 mm respectively.

Browse the full range of Beta Tools jack stands, or talk to the UNIPAC team about matching stands to the vehicles you work on.