Do I need a 6-point socket set or a 12-point socket set?
.jpg)
A hex nut has 6 points. Both 6-point and 12-point sockets can be fitted on hex nuts, the primary differences being convenience and torque. The more points a socket has, the more points of contact available. Compared with the 6-point socket, a 12-point socket has twice as many points, so it can more easily slide onto a hex nut. In other words, you would need to rotate only up to 30 degrees to fit a 12-point socket onto a hex nut. This can prove to be a time-saver and make life easier when you’re working within confined spaces.
On the other hand, 6-point sockets help reduce wear on the nut corners, and they also have better torque performance than 12-point sockets, for two reasons:
1) As the flanks of a 6-point socket are thicker than those of a 12-point socket, torque can be evenly applied on each side of the hex nut.
2.) Torque power load is borne by the flanks of the nut or bolt instead of by the corners.
However, you must use a 12-point socket with a 12-point fastener (such as the old Camry internal bolts).
In conclusion, every professional craftsman should own a complete set of 6-point sockets. While a 12-point socket set isn’t absolutely necessary, it is nice to havel.
Fun fact
In 1996, Snap-On patented its 12-point flank drive, designed to reduce wear on hex nuts or bolts. To this day, this invention remains one of the most popular socket patents applications in the world.
Do you have any feedback or ideas about hand tool socket development? Please feel free to contact our sales team.
Which Brand Provides the Most Powerful Impact Wrench? (comparison table for 2019 models of leading brands)
In the last five years, we have witnessed three major developments in the field of pneumatic impact wrench (air impact wrench) and electric impact wre...
.jpg)
Differences between DIN and ANSI Specifications for Impact Sockets
Most impact sockets are manufactured to suit ANSI or ASTM specifications as set out by the American National Standards Institute, or to meet DIN speci...
Socket Size Inch & Metric, Download Quick Convert Sheet Between SAE and Imperial Socket Sizes
How to Convert Between SAE and Imperial Socket Sizes? There are two different methods for measuring the hex sizes of sockets. The SAE (Society of...
How to Select the Right Spark Socket
A spark plug is an essential component in your engine cylinder. Whether you drive a car or a motorbike, when a spark plug is damaged, all you can do i...
Steel Standard Comparison, CNS, JIS, AISI, ASTM, DIN
The key to precise metal processing is knowing the characteristics of alloy steel or other material. Before commencing mass production of any OEM/ODM ...
How to Use a Universal Joint Socket
Universal joints and universal joint sockets are designed for use in confined places with flexible angles. One would usually assemble a universal join...
How to use Nylon Strap Wrench
The Tien-I's nylon strap wrench is ideal for removing shower heads, sink faucets, pipes and other objects that twist off. It's the must have tool at y...
Impact Socket Material, Chrome Molybdenum Steel, CR-MO
Compared with CR-V socket, CHROME MOLYBDENUM STEEL (CR-MO) Impact socket have much better ability of absoring resistance, which means more f...
Tien-I Chooses Taiwanese Chrome Vanadium Steel for Durability and Resilience
To make good tools, you need good quality steel. That's why Tien-I chooses to manufacture with chrome vanadium steel (Cr-V) from Taiwan. Chrome v...
.jpg)