POLYTOPS® socket drive screws are a new concept in socket screws; a simple integral fixing with an innovative encapsulated polymer hexagonal head (6 point) or bi-hexagonal head (12 point).
Manufactured in a variety of material choices to suit differing applications, including zinc plated and stainless steel, the polymer head offers a colour coded solution for use on exposed fixing areas. The polymer head is corrosion resistant and can be used in outdoor as well as indoor applications. The maintenance free, tough, colour co-ordinated head will not separate as with other two-part fasteners, thus retaining its aesthetic value and giving an enduring professional finish. The easy to use one-piece fixing can be used with manual or automated production tools, providing significant production savings over alternative ‘hidden’ fastening systems.
There are two types of hex sockets — six-point (or Hex Head Socket Screws) and 12-point (Bi-Hex Head Socket Screws). The six-point hex socket has six points or angles inside the bolt end. The 12-point socket (bi-hexagonal head), has 12 angles in the bolt end. The unique bi-hex head offers improved tamper resistance as a conventional hex socket cannot be used with them. A moulded washer face underneath these screws protects work surfaces from socket contact.
The easy to use one piece fixing can be used with manual or automated production tools and can significant production savings over alternative hidden fastening systems. Also available in bi-hex head socket drive, the screws are available in common formats and POLYTOPS® colours.
They are suitable for a wide range of applications in the manufacturing and construction industries:-
• Portable buildings
• Shopfitting
• Conservatory construction
• Roofing and cladding
• Furniture fixings
• Manufacturing
Hex Head Socket Screw vs Socket Head Cap Screw
A hex head cap screw functions much like a socket head cap screw. They are both available in pretty the same sizes and materials. Some professionals choose to use the socket head style due to quality issues as it takes extreme pressure with repeated use to before they start to round off hex head style.
Watch For DebrisA common problem when using socket head cap screws is the build up of debris in the socket hole. Soft materials or tiny particles can clog up the socket, these are then are to remove making it difficult to work with these fasteners. Possibly resulting in premature wear out of the joint.
Hex head cap screws have a solid head that can be easily tightened or released using a socket drive, or an adjustable / fixed spanner. Debris build up tends not to be an issue with this style of fastener but if it does occur it is easier to clean and clear.
Both screws create a strong, stable joint. Depending on the access in your application, your visual preferences, and the presence of debris, one may be better than the other.
Bi-Hex Head Socket Screws: POLYTOPS® Bi-Hex Head Socket Screws are available with a less typical bi-hexagonal head. These tamper resistant fasteners can not be removed with conventional hex sockets yet can be quickly and easily applied by hand using a point socket for all common formats of screws.
What is a Bi-Hex Head Socket Screw
Polytops® socket drive screws are also available with a less typical, bi-hexagonal head. These tamper resistant fasteners cannot be removed with conventional hex sockets, yet can be quickly and easily applied by hand using a 12 point socket. Available in a range of materials and all common formats, the bi-hex head is also manufactured in all our standard colours. This security led product is suitable across a wide range of applications:-
The bi-hex is able to fit over a hexagonal bolt head in twice as many positions as the regular hex socket, so it’s a good choice for working in tight spaces.
Available in a range of materials and all common formats, the bi- hex head is also manufactured in all our standard colours. This security led product is suitable across a wide range of applications:
Our POLYTOPS® Bi-Hex Socket screws are used in:
• Secure sign fixing
• Retail displays
• Public lighting
• Street furniture
• Portable buildings
• Enclosures
SEAC can help colour match the plastic you want for our POLYTOPS® Bi-Hex Head Socket Screws (prices on application)
Used in Signage
Sign Fixing – POLYTOPS® socket drive screws with hex or bi-hex heads are popularly used to fix signs as they are aesthetically pleasing, do not need maintenance, and secure.
A special tool is needed to fasten and unfasten the screw.
key benefits of POLYTOPS® hex screws
• Polymer top is moulded onto screw and cannot be removed
• tamper resistance especially with bi-hex socket drive screws
• Metal screw head is intact and hardwearing
• Aesthetically pleasing, colour matching finish
• made from either Zinc Plated, A2 and A4 stainless steel
• All available for the UK and international markets.