Hex Bolt. Vs Carriage Bolt

Are you in the process of choosing the right type of bolt for your project? If so, you may wonder what the difference between a hex bolt and a carriage bolt is. Both bolts have unique benefits that make them ideal for different applications.

Keep reading to learn more about the critical differences between hex bolts and carriage bolts so that you can choose the right option for your needs.

Hex Bolt

It is made of a hexagonal-shaped head and a threaded shaft. Hex bolts are typically used in applications with a high level of strength. They are also easy to install and remove, making them a popular choice for many applications.

Advantages:

Hex bolts are economical and easier to produce.

Their lever arch mechanisms allow you to apply increased tightening torque.
The key does not risk getting out from the bolt. So that the surrounding surfaces may not be damaged.
They are easy to install and remove.

Disadvantages:

First, they can be challenging to work with in tight spaces; they require either a wrench or socket wrench for installation, which can be tricky in tight spaces.
The head can also be easily damaged if struck with a hammer.
If bolts are made of high-quality steel, which can be pretty expensive for you.

Bolts are not much-secured; they cause versatility.

Carriage Bolt

Carriage bolts are also known as coach bolts. A carriage bolt is a fastener used to secure two or more pieces of material together. It is made of a rounded head and a threaded shaft.

Carriage bolts are typically used in applications where a high level of strength is not required. They are also easy to install and remove, making them a popular choice for many applications.

Advantages

Carriage bolts have several advantages, including ease of installation, security, and versatility.

The smooth, domed head and square nut below prevent the bolt from being gripped and rotated from the insecure side.
Carriage bolts are also less likely to loosen over time than other bolts.

Using carriage bolts is that they are straightforward to install. The bolt can be hammered into place, and then the square neck will keep it from turning. This makes them ideal for use in applications where time is of the essence.

Disadvantages

One is that they are not as strong as some other types of bolts, so they may not be suitable for some applications.
Another disadvantage is that they can be difficult to remove if they become damaged or stuck.

Difference Between Hex Bolt and Carriage Bolt

There are several critical differences between hex bolts and carriage bolts,

Head Type

There are several key differences between hex bolts and carriage bolts, the most notable of which is the head type. Hex bolts have a hexagonal head.

carriage bolts have smooth, rounded heads. Carriage bolts also have a square neck under the head, preventing the bolt from turning once it is tightened.

Tighten Process

To tighten a hex bolt, you will need to use a power drill and drill a sizing hole for the bolt. Use a drill bit that is the same width as the bolt. Next, use two wrenches to tighten both sides of the bolt.

Finally, turn the wrench on the nut side clockwise until it is fully tightened. You can also draw from the other side if there isn’t enough space on the nut side.

To Tighten a Carriage Bolt:

Use a power drill and drill a hole for the bolt.

Use a drill bit that is the same width as the bolt.
Use a wrench to tighten the bolt from the nut side.
Turn the wrench on the nut side clockwise until it is fully tightened.

Uses

Hex bolts are used in various applications where a high level of strength is required. These applications include the construction of bridges, highways, and buildings.

Additionally, hex bolts are used to join two or more parts in constructing many different types of machines. Furthermore, it is used to build many kinds of vehicles. In a word, it is used universally.

Carriage bolts are typically used in lighter-duty applications where the head may be subject to cosmetic damage. They are used when a non-marring lead hammer is desired when the head needs to be flushed or countersunk with the material’s surface.

Carriage bolts are also used in applications where the fastener will be subject to vibration because the square neck under the head of the carriage bolt prevents it from loosening over time.

Size

The most common sizes for hex bolts are 3/8″ diameter, 1/2″ diameter, 5/8″ diameter, and 3/4″ diameter. The most common lengths are 1/2″, 3/4″, 1″, and 1 1/2″. The most common thread diameters are 10-24, 1/4-20, 5/16-18, and 3/8-16. The most common thread lengths are 1/2″ , 3/4″ , 1″ , 1 1/2″ , and 2″ .

Carriage bolts have a diameter that ranges from 1/4 inch to 3/4 inch, and metric sizes for them vary from m6 to m12 with lengths of 12 mm to 100 mm.

Price

The price of a carriage bolt is relatively less compared to a hex bolt. For example, you can get 3/8″ Diameter and 8-piece hex bolts for between $10 and $20.

You can find a 25 carriage bolt in a 3/4-inch Diameter for between $10 to 20$.

Extra

The head of the carriage bolt is designed to flush with the surface of the material it uses. This gives the finished product a more polished look.

Which One Will You Choose?

There are several critical differences between hex bolts and carriage bolts, including the type of head, the process of tightening, and the price. Hex bolts have a hexagonal head and are typically used in applications with a high level of strength.

Carriage bolts have smooth, rounded heads and are typically used in lighter-duty applications where the head may be subject to cosmetic damage. Carriage bolts are also less likely to loosen over time. The price of a carriage bolt is relatively less compared to a hex bolt.

What is Similar Between Hex Bolt and Carriage Bolt?

As they look similar, they have some similarities, so let’s discuss them

Bolt Thread

Both bolts have threads that allow them to be screwed into the same place. The threading on both types of bolts is such that they can be screwed into the same size hole.

Both Used With a Nut

A nut is used with carriage and hex bolts to secure them. The nut is tightened against the surface where the bolt is being affixed.

Body Shape

Both carriage and hex bolts have a cylindrical body shape. The body of the bolt is what goes through the hole in the surface to which it is being affixed.

Material

Both carriage and hex bolts are typically made of steel. However, bolts made of other materials are also available.

Conclusion

So, Both bolts have their characteristics, so it depends on what kind of work and environment you are using them for. You have found the answer by reading the article, and now you are on the right track.

Thank you for reading! I hope this article helped you understand the difference between hex bolts and carriage bolts. If you have any further questions, please feel free to comment.

You may read also – Carriage Bolt Alternative

Table of Contents