What is an allen or hex radiator key?
What is an allen or hex radiator key? |
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The parts of an Allen or hex key are:
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An Allen (sometimes called hexagon or hex) radiator key is for fitting and removing standard 1/2 inch radiator valves. It is also known as a half-inch section key.
This key is normally made from high tensile steel and is usually galvanised or zinc-coated for protection against corrosion. |
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It also has a square end for the fitting and removal of square section radiator plugs.
Square section means the plug has a square recess that the key will fit into for undoing and tightening. |
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One end of this key is usually grooved to fit what are known as internally lugged valve tails. | |||
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The other, square, end is for for 3/8 inch (10 mm) square section radiator vent plugs (the plug which has a bleed screw in the middle), and blanking plugs with the same square recess.
There is a round hole in the end of the square head that gives clearance for the air vent screw, so the plug can be removed without damaging the screw. For step-by-step guides to using this and some other keys, see and |
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