A Cap screw is a bolt with a trimmed hex head and a flat washer face on the bearing surface. They are used when precise tolerances are required in applications like an OEM setting. They are available in a variety of grades, sizes and materials, with a choice of coarse or fine threads to match the environment and stresses of your project.

They are commonly used in construction and engineering projects due to their ability to withstand heavy loads and harsh environments. They are also used in automotive, aerospace and power generation equipment. Cap screws are available in both English and metric sizes, with a range of coarse and fine threads, as well as different finishes to match your design and aesthetic requirements.

Hex caps are easy to install or remove, with their six-sided hex head design that can be gripped by a socket wrench. This allows for greater torque than screws with a circular or star head. They are typically used with a ratchet instead of a screwdriver, with the socket wrench gripping all six sides of the head to create more torque than a single point of contact.

When selecting the right hex cap screw for your application, it is important to understand its grade, as this indicates the strength of the fastener. Grades include 5, 8, and 12.9, with the latter being an industrial strength option with a higher tensile strength of 180,000 psi. These are commonly used in high stress environments such as tractor fabrication and suspension applications.