Sockets are normally made from steel and are used with ratchet handles of various sizes. Combined together they provide more torque leverage than a spanner helping you to tighten or remove nuts & bolts.
Unlike regular sockets, impact sockets have a hardened carbonized surface, also known as heat-treated or drop forged. This allows an impact socket to manage torque impact changes. Non-impact (standard) sockets will bend or break when used with an impact tool and this can be dangerous and cause injuries.
Socket Types
- Hex is an abbreviation of Hexagonal and there are two types of Hex socket; 6-point and 12-point. A hex socket will fit naturally around a six-sided nut or bolt. A 12-point socket also fits around a hex bolt and this is also known as a bi-hex or double hex socket. A double hex provides more flexibility in confined spaces.
- Deep sockets, also known as deep dive sockets. The difference is they are longer than standard sockets and provide added accessibility in limited space and hard to reach parts.
- Insulated sockets are safe to work on live equipment up to 1000 V. Typically used by electricians and maintenance engineersN/li>
What are they made from?
- Chrome vanadium
- Beryllium copper
- Aluminium bronze
- Steel
Popular drive sizes
1/4 in, 1/2 in, 3/4, & 1 in
Applications
Sockets are typically used in:
- Garages and Workshops
- Civil Engineering
- Marine Maintenance
- Aerospace Industry