Key Wrenches, an “L key wrench,” also commonly known as an “Allen wrench” or “hex key,” is a hand tool used for tightening or loosening screws and bolts with hexagonal sockets. It is called an “L key” because it typically has an L-shaped design, with one end of the tool shaped like an “L” and the other end straight.

L key wrenches come in various sizes, with different hexagonal ends to fit a range of screw or bolt sizes. They are commonly used in assembling furniture, bicycles, machinery, and other items that use hexagonal socket fasteners.

The L-shaped design of these wrenches provides leverage and allows users to apply torque when turning the wrench, making it easier to tighten or loosen hexagonal fasteners. They are compact and convenient tools, often sold in sets with multiple sizes to accommodate different tasks.

How many types of wrenches are there?

There are several types of key wrenches, each designed for specific types of fasteners or applications. Some of the most common types of key wrenches include:

1. Allen Wrench (Hex Key): This is the most common type of key wrench, used for hexagonal socket fasteners. Allen wrenches come in various sizes, typically measured in metric or imperial units.
2. Torx Key Wrench: Also known as a “star key” or “star wrench,” this type of wrench is designed for screws and bolts with a six-pointed star-shaped socket. Torx key wrenches are often used in electronics and automotive applications.
3. Phillips Head Wrench: These wrenches have a Phillips head design and are used for screws with cross-shaped slots. They are common in household applications, especially for assembling furniture and appliances.
4. Slotted Head Wrench: These wrenches have a flat, slotted head design and are used for screws with straight-line slots. They are also commonly used in various household applications.
5. Square Drive Wrench (Robertson): Square drive wrenches are designed for screws and bolts with a square-shaped socket, commonly known as Robertson screws. They are popular in construction and woodworking.
6. Socket Wrench: Socket wrenches are versatile tools that come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for different types of fasteners. They can be used with a ratcheting handle to quickly tighten or loosen bolts and nuts.
7. Spanner Wrench (Adjustable Wrench): These wrenches have adjustable jaws and are used for turning nuts and bolts with flat sides. They are versatile tools that can be adjusted to fit a wide range of fastener sizes.
8. Pipe Wrench: Pipe wrenches are designed for gripping and turning pipes and round objects. They have serrated jaws that provide a strong grip.
9. Box Wrench: Box wrenches have a closed-loop design and are used for turning nuts and bolts in tight spaces. They come in various shapes, including offset and ratcheting box wrenches.
10. Combination Wrench: Combination wrenches have an open-end on one side and a closed box-end on the other. They are versatile tools used for a wide range of fasteners.
11. Adjustable Wrench (Crescent Wrench): These wrenches have adjustable jaws and are used for turning nuts and bolts with flat sides. They are versatile tools that can be adjusted to fit various fastener sizes.
12. Pipe Wrench: Pipe wrenches are designed for gripping and turning pipes and round objects. They have serrated jaws that provide a strong grip.
13. Box Wrench: Box wrenches have a closed-loop design and are used for turning nuts and bolts in tight spaces. They come in various shapes, including offset and ratcheting box wrenches.

These are some of the most common types of key wrenches, each with its own specific purpose and design. The choice of wrench depends on the type of fastener you need to work with and the specific application.