Nuts are commonly used to hold parts together. They are attached to the threaded shank of a bolt. The bolt is initially placed through a predrilled hole in the parts, after which a nut is twisted onto the shank. As long as the nut remains attached, the bolt will stay in place while simultaneously holding the parts in place. Depending on the application, though, a standard nut may not cut it. Instead, you may need to use a heavy hex nut.
What Are Heavy Hex Nuts?
Heavy hex nuts are fastening nuts that are designed for use in heavy-duty applications. Like all fastening nuts, they feature internal threading. You can install them by twisting them clockwise onto the end of a bolt. Heavy hex nuts, however, are particularly strong and durable, making them ideal for buildings, bridges, machinery and other applications that require heavy-duty fasteners.
Common Features of Heavy Hex Nuts
Heavy hex nuts feature a hexagonal shape. With six total sides, they are easy to tighten and loosen. You can use a traditional wrench or a socket wrench. Heavy hex nuts offer six sides to grip with tools such as these, allowing for quick and easy tightening and loosening.
While you can find them in different sizes, heavy hex nuts are typically larger than standard nuts. They are thicker and wider than their standard counterparts. With their larger size, they can withstand more force and stress.
As their name suggests, heavy hex nuts are heavy. Their larger size translates into a heavier weight, which is very noticeable when holding them.
Things to Consider When Choosing Heavy Hex Nuts
There are several things you should consider when choosing heavy hex nuts, one of which is the thread size. Heavy hex nuts are always used in conjunction with a separate threaded fastener, such as a bolt. Therefore, their thread size must match that of the threaded fasteners with which they are used.
Like most nuts, the thread size of heavy hex nuts is typically represented by a pair of numbers, such as 7/8″-9. The first number represents the nut’s diameter, whereas the second number represents the nut’s threads per inch (TPI).
You should consider the material when choosing heavy hex nuts. Since they are used in heavy-duty fastening applications, they are made of strong, long-lasting materials. High-carbon steel is a common material in which heavy hex nuts are made. It’s strong, durable and able to withstand significant force and stress. You can also find heavy hex nuts made of titanium. They typically cost more than steel hex nuts, but titanium nuts are incredibly strong and durable.