Sockets are among the most familiar tools with mechanics, DIYers, and folks who engage in maintenances.
This tool comes attached to a ratchet or socket wrench and other effective tools that loosen or tighten fasteners. Interestingly, you would find that there are different types of sockets.
Whether manual or electric-operated sockets, you would notice this tool’s adaptability and notice how it aids in handling projects involving bolts and nuts. Hence, it appears as an indispensable part of toolboxes for mechanics and maintenance experts.
The varying types and sizes of sockets work well for various applications, depending on the available workspace, clearance amount, and fastener type.
With that in mind, you can rely on this technical guide to learn more about the existing socket types, features, and uses.
Definition of Sockets
A socket is a device that attaches at the end of a wrench or ratchet. The main function of a socket is to remove bolts. Sockets generally include two sides. One is to attach to a wrench and the other is to grip the bolts. Sockets are available in metric and imperial sizes.
Among these two you can select anyone depending on your requirements. The only difference between these two is the method one measures their sizes.
Imperial sockets include measurements in inches and metric sockets include measurements in millimeters. Below are the most common types of sockets which most sectors use.
How Does a Socket Work?
Sockets work in conjunction with ratchets. The socket snaps on to one end of the ratchet thanks to a square-drive connector. The other end of the socket is then fitted over a fastener.
The ratchet allows the socket to engage with and tighten the fastener when it is turned in a clockwise direction and loosen the fastener when it is turned in an anti-clockwise direction.
Common Types of Socket
Sockets come designed as cylindrical tools, which come in varying sizes to fit over the heads of fasteners. You would often find such tools with recessed squares that connect them to other wrenches or suitable turning tools.
This tool is pretty essential, and as such, you would find them supplied by many tool brands out there. From removing O2 sensors to removing the crankcase while fixing rod knock issues, you would find sockets very crucial in different auto repairs.
Are you keen on knowing the different socket types there exist? Below is a list consisting of some of the common types of sockets tools.
#1. Hex Sockets.
Hex socket is one of the common types of sockets and this product is constructed as a dual hex/12 or hex/6 point socket. whether you need a square drive socket or double hex socket, you can get different types of sockets tools easily.
Most of the hex sockets are made using high-quality alloy steel. Hex sockets can be used for mechanical purposes and electrical purposes. Hex socket fits around a hexagonal nut or bolt head.
There are two types of hex sockets available in the market and also include 6 points and 12 points. Hex socket is designed in a way so that it fits the head of a hexagonal fastener such as a bolt and nut.
A hex socket is also known as 6 point socket. It is designed to take a screwdriver bit and can be used as a conventional screwdriver.
#2. Impact Sockets.
Impact socket is another best type of socket and the color of this type of socket is black. People will get the complete industrial surface. You will find different types of power impact wrenches and it also includes a non-corrosive finish with thicker walls.
The impact socket is always thicker than the regular socket. It’s a minimum of 50% thicker than the then normal one. This type of socket is the best for pneumatic impact tools. Regular socket only used on hand tools.
Just because impact sockets can be used in place of regular sockets doesn’t mean they should be used for every application. For one thing, the steel that impacts sockets use is softer than the hardened chrome vanadium that regular sockets use.
#3. Spark Plug Sockets.
For most automotive experts and car owners, spark plug sockets appear pretty common. As the name implies, this socket type comes in handy for fitting or removing spark plugs from engines.
You would often find this tool appearing longer when compared to standard sockets, and spark plug sockets have rubber inserts that would often prevent damage on the spark plug as you work on it.
Famous brands like GearWrench, Ares, Lexivon, Craftsman, and Apex tools supply some of the best spark plug sockets. The estimated cost of getting a suitable spark plug socket set ranges from $5.98 to $21.98.
#4. Insulated Sockets.
Insulated sockets are designed for use in electrical applications. They have a coating on them that insulates them from electrical currents. They are tested and safe for use on live AC and DC electrical currents.
They should only be used on electrical applications when used in combination with an insulated socket set though.
The insulated socket itself won’t provide sufficient protection against electrical currents unless used with an insulted connector like an insulated wrench.
#5. Universal Joints Sockets.
Universal joints and universal joint sockets are designed for use in confined places with flexible angles. One would usually assemble a universal joint in one of two ways: universal joint + socket + extension; universal joint socket + extension.
In addition, it supplies unique and innovative types of universal joints. 1/4-in Drive Universal Joint gives you the flexibility to get the job done easier and quicker. The Universal Joint will give you access to obstructions to be able to get the job done with ease.
There are different types of socket drives available in the market and you may choose any type of universal joint socket as per your need.
#6. Pass-Through Sockets.
A pass-through socket is a type of socket that allows the stud to pass completely through the tool. The ratchet grips the outside of the socket rather than the center, so you can use these sockets for long studs or studs that need to be gripped while removing a fastener.
Stream sockets allow processes to communicate using TCP. A stream socket provides a bidirectional, reliable, sequenced, and unduplicated flow of data with no record boundaries.
Choose the best type of socket all the time and you need to choose the best type of socket as per your need. check and select the best type of pass-through sockets as per your need.
#7. Socket Bits.
Socket bits possess a square-shaped ratchet end that works well for getting them attached to suitable ratchets. This tool appears like the popular hex socket, but you would find it has some bits within it.
In most cases, the bits appear like screwdriver bits; still, you would find them in varying types. There are excellent options from $9.88 to $97.50. Kindly note that MulWark, Neiko, and Stalwart offer some of the best socket bits in the market.
#8. Bolt Grip Sockets.
Bolt grip sockets are designed to remove damaged fasteners rather than to tighten fasteners. The internal walls of bolt grip sockets have a concave spiral design which allows it to fit a lot of different types of fastener heads.
The edges of this design dig into the damaged fastener head, which gives it a tight grip and allows the user to easily remove the damaged fastener.
#9. Adjustable Multi Sockets.
If you often work on different bolts and nuts, it would help to get adjustable multi sockets. This socket type does the job of differently sized sockets.
You can rely on this tool to prevent the “rounding” of the bolt or stud corners since it gets equal forces distributed across all the fastener’s sides.
Adjustable multi sockets possess adjustable jaws for fitting purposes as they contact the heads of these fasteners.
You can expect Neiko and Sunex to offer some of the best adjustable multi sockets when it comes to durability. You can make your budget from around $199.99 to $169.97.
#10. Oil Filter Sockets.
One crucial tool for oil changes and replacing a car’s oil filter is the oil filter socket. This tool appears large but shallow and has walls that are thin compared to some other sockets.
Hence, this tool does not necessarily need withstanding high torque forces, especially as oil filters come with plastic threads.
Motive, Innovant, Craftsman, Tekton, and Neiko appear to be top suppliers of such tools. This tool has sets that come at estimated prices of $5.77 to $49.95.
#11. Flex Sockets.
Flex or flexible sockets have a built-in joint that allows you to use the handle at different angles, which is a useful feature in tight spaces.
Swivel sockets are a type of socket wrench accessory where the socket head is mounted on a universal joint that allows the socket to be positioned at odd angles.
As such, they can be used where a regular socket wrench might not fit or allow for enough movement to turn the fastener. A pass-through socket is a type of socket that allows the stud to pass completely through the tool.
The ratchet grips the outside of the socket rather than the center, so you can use these sockets for long studs or studs that need to be gripped while removing a fastener.
#12. Non-Sparking Sockets.
The contact of two metal surfaces is more likely to cause sparks, and as such, this type of socket comes designed with non-ferrous materials.
With such a tool, you can rest assured that there will be few sparks when working on metal fasteners, which further prevent fire in explosive areas.
In essence, this tool would help ensure a safe operation in areas with explosive atmospheres such as flammable liquids, gases, vapors, and different particulates. There are excellent non-sparking sockets from $9.99 to $149.34.
Socket Set Components
Sockets make up just one part of a socket set. The other key components are a rachet and extension bar, both of which can improve the versatility of your sockets and help to widen their uses.
#1. Sockets.
The sockets in your socket set fit around the fastener and are sized either in inches (imperial) or millimetres (metric). This size corresponds to the bolt head, allowing you to select the right socket size for the fastener you’re working with.
Sockets also come in different profiles, the most common of which are the 6-point hex sockets and the 12-point bi-hex sockets. These correspond to the shape of the fastener.
#2. Ratchets.
Rachets attach to the socket to allow you to apply the torque needed to turn the fastener. They are multi-directional to enable you to both unbolt and bolt the nut.
Rachets are measured according to their drive size, which is always given in imperial (inches). Common drive sizes are 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ although larger drives of up to 1” are available.
What size rachet you need depends entirely on where the fastener is located. Smaller rachets, for example, are ideal for tight spaces but larger ones require more clearance.
Rachets also feature a tooth count, which dictates how far you need to push the handle to engage the next tooth.
The higher the tooth count the less distance you’ll need to turn the handle. Fine tooth rachets (rachets with a high tooth count) typically have a tooth count of 72 to 160 teeth.
The other consideration with rachets is whether you go for standard or quick release. Quick-release rachets enable you to quickly remove the socket from the rachet, by simply pressing a button rather than having to manually remove the socket yourself.
This can serve as a great time saver, as well as helping you to switch sockets with ease.
#3. Extension Bars.
Extension bars, also known as socket extensions, affix to the rachet (drive end) of your sockets, to help you to reach fasteners in restricted or cramped spaces.
Like rachets and sockets, extension bars come in a range of sizes (sized both in imperial and metric measurements). Some of the longest will add 20-24 inches to your socket driver – giving you an incredible ability to access fasteners that are out of reach.
Extension bars are sized according to their input and output drive size, which corresponds to the rachet size you’re using.
For this reason, you’ll commonly find socket extensions available in 1/4”, 3/4″, 3/8”, and 1/2″ sizes, which align with the standard drive sizes of small, medium, and large rachets.
Socket Accessories
There are many different types of socket accessories available. You can use multiple types of accessories with sockets, including extension bars, breaker bars, universal joints and speeders.
Extension Bars
Extension bars are used to extend the reach of a tool and come in a range of lengths dependent on your needs.
T-Handles
A T-handle allows the operator to apply torque to a socket with either one hand or two. Many T-handles have sliding bars, which allow for more torque to be manually applied.
Breaker Bars
Breaker bars are used to increase the force you can apply.
Speeders
Speeders are used to allow the user to quickly tighten or loosen a fastener using a rotation of the handle.
Heamar sell a variety of individual sockets and socket sets in a wide range of drive sizes.
Socket Lengths And Special Features
Not every socket works for every job, even if it’s the right size. If you’re working in a tight space or on a difficult project, you may need a special socket length or type to get the job done efficiently. Some special features also make working with ratchets and sockets easier.
Socket Lengths
- Standard length sockets: These are best for basic projects that you’ll take on.
- Deep sockets: A deep socket can help you reach bolts that are far down in a vehicle or piece of machinery that you’re working on. These are often needed when the bolt protrudes from the nut, like a tire lug nut, or the fastener is recessed.
- Low-profile sockets: These are helpful for tight spaces that can be tough to operate in.
- Mid-length. or intermediate sockets: These sockets are useful for projects in tight spaces that require additional reach.
Special Features and Additional Tools
- Socket extensions: An extension goes between the socket and ratchet to make it easier to reach embedded parts. Locking extensions help keep your socket from falling off.
- Socket adapters: Socket adapters let you use a particular socket with a ratchet of a different size.
- Breaker bars: A breaker bar is designed to help break a stuck or difficult seal on a nut or bolt. Once released, you can use a standard wrench and socket to finish the job.
Ratchet and socket sets, along with specialty tools like breaker bars, are crucial for all sorts of vehicle repairs, construction tasks and electronic and machinery maintenance.
A standard SAE and metric set is ideal for most tasks. Some larger ratchet and socket sets even include both.
For ease of use, keep your socket sizes in order when you store your tools. That way, you’ll always be ready for any repair or upgrade you take on.
Ratchets and sockets come in many sizes, types and uses for varying tasks. When you buy specialty ratchet and socket sets, they may include items like socket extensions and breaker bars.
However, you can add these items to your existing sets, as they’re typically sold individually. In case you lose or damage a part of your existing set, you can buy replacement sockets and more.
FAQs.
Q: Which is better, a 6 or 12-point socket?
Whether you use a 6-point or 12-point socket tool, your choice would often depend on the size of the fastener. Nevertheless, 6-point fasteners appear pretty common compared to 12-point fasteners.
Still, it would be best first to determine the type of fastener head you would be working on before getting either a 6-point or 12-point tool. A proper match would ensure maximized surface area, and as such, the tool is less likely to slip.
Q: What are the most common socket sizes?
Sockets come in varying sizes, as they are designed to fit different sizes of fasteners, such as bolts, studs, and nuts. However, some of the commonest options you would find are 36mm sockets and 10mm sockets.
Considering the standard sockets, you can find four common types, and they include 3/4–inch, ½-inch, 3/8-inch, and ¼-inch sockets. Most of these options mentioned above come with bits that would fit Torx screws.
Q: What is the difference between a ratchet and a socket?
Ratchets are handles that appear snapped to the end of sockets with the aid of a connector (square drive connector). In essence, the ratchet would often pose as the drive tool for supplying sufficient torque to turn the fasteners.
Nevertheless, Sockets are either electric or manual designed to fit the heads of bolts or nuts. Kindly note that sockets cannot work without a drive tool; hence, they are often attached to ratchets to loosen or tighten a fastener.
Q: How do I choose a socket set?
When it comes to choosing the right sockets, there are many things to consider, and one is the size type. However, this would further depend on the work, as metric sockets would work better for fasteners with metric sizes, which applies to imperial sockets.
Another thing is to decide whether you would need impact sockets instead of the standard options. It would help if you also thought about the drive size, and as such, it would help to learn how to measure socket drive sizes.
Final Words
When it comes to auto repairs and maintenance, home improvements, and various professional projects, sockets are one tool that appears famous.
This tool is a piece that folks attach to ratchets, wrenches, and other suitable turning tools, which aids in tightening or loosening fasteners.
Sockets come with varying features and designs, which work effectively for different uses. So, how many types of sockets are there? You can find different socket types; nevertheless, this piece holds twelve common types of sockets that you can use for varying applications.