Hexagonal die nuts for metric thread according to DIN 13

You need thread cutting dies for cutting external threads. So far, so clear. But you have probably noticed that there are also hexagonal die nut in addition to the normal cylindrical ones. These hexagonal cutting die are also known as hexagonal die nut because of their appearance. They are not intended as an equivalent alternative, but have their very own areas of application. Due to their shape, hexagonal die nuts are particularly flexible in use. However, there is definitely no difference to the cylinder shape: Quality and high-quality workmanship are also important for these models. And BAER - the professional screw tap manufacturer - is of course the right address for you.

The special thing about hexagonal die nuts is the shape

You can immediately recognise hexagonal die nuts due to the special shape that distinguishes it from the cylindrical version. However, the "inner workings" of both types are not different. These also have cutting edges on the inside, which are interrupted by round chip holes. The cutting edges can remove material, which can then exit through the chip holes without interference. Up to this point, everything is exactly as you know it. However, the external shape makes it clear that this is a special version. The hexagonal die nut also lacks the holes and the V-groove that are otherwise used for fastening in a holding tool.

How to use a hexagonal die nut

The lack of holes for fastening already indicates that the use of an hexagonal cutting die differs from the usual procedure for cutting external threads. Because if you can't fasten it in a normal die holder, how do you use the hexagonal die nut?

Which die holder you should use for hexagon head

There are no special die holders with a hexagon into which you can insert an hexagonal die nut. You cannot mount it in a round die stock, so you should not experiment here. In fact, the purpose of the shape of the hexagonal cutting tool is that you do not need a die stock to use it. Instead, thanks to the hexagon, the thread cutting die nut can be used with any type of spanner. Open-end spanners or ring spanners are usually already part of every DIY enthusiast's basic equipment and are available in abundance in a workshop. You therefore do not need any special holding tools to use the hexagonal die nut. The spanner dimensions of the hexagon die nuts are standardised for this purpose.

Cutting or repairing external threads with the hexagonal die nut

Hexagonal die nuts are suitable for cutting or recutting external threads. The procedure is very similar to using the cylindrical version. As there is no die holder for hexagon, there is of course no need to insert it into the holding tool as the first step. Instead, place the hexagonal die nut on the bolt and use a spanner to move it to the desired length of the thread. Of course, you must not forget the cutting paste when carrying out this work either.

Thread cutting dies with hexagonal shape have other areas of application than round thread cutting dies

Hexagonal die nuts have a different geometry and are used with different holding tools than is usually the case. Accordingly, their areas of application also differ from the standard case. In theory, they can be used wherever their cylindrical counterparts are used. However, two factors play a special role when using the hexagonal die nut.

The hexagonal die nut requires less space

The special feature of hexagonal die nuts is that you do not need die holder to use it. On the one hand, this makes the hexagonal cutting nut very flexible. Not only because you can use spanners that are already part of your equipment for thread cutting. But also because you can get into corners with the hexagonal die nut that you could never reach with the cylindrical version. This is because a standard die holder has two handles and also needs to be rotated through 360° when working. So a lot of space is needed here. The hexagonal die, on the other hand, is moved using a spanner. Not only does it only have one handle, but it can also be repositioned again and again. This significantly reduces the space required compared to the standard version.

Hexagonal die nuts are very suitable for re-threading

As there is no die holder for hexagon, hexagonal die nuts cannot be used with both hands and it is also not possible to use a die guide. When cutting external threads, however, it is particularly important to keep the cutting die exactly plumb. For this reason, hexagonal die nuts are better suited for repairing and recutting threads. In these cases, the cutting edges of the hexagon die nut follow the existing threads - so it is not so important that you have a steady hand. And this is precisely where the hexagonal die nut really comes into its own. It is used particularly frequently when recutting bolts for fastening vehicle tyres, for example. In this environment, it can be used quickly and flexibly with the aid of a spanner or open-end spanner.

The hexagonal die nut also reaches places that are difficult to access

You can use the hexagonal die nut not only to repair threads, but also to reach places that you would not be able to reach with a round thread cutting die. In these cases, the increased difficulty of cutting a clean thread is easier to ignore. After all, the alternative would be not to cut a thread at all. With a careful approach, a flawless external thread can also be produced in this way.

Hexagonal die nuts for the metric thread in the BAER online shop

In the BAER online shop you will find hexagonal die nuts for the metric thread in two versions. Choose between models for normal applications and those with which you can cut a left-hand thread. Both types are made of high-quality high-speed steel, which ensures that you will enjoy your BAER products for a very long time.

Do you have any questions or need detailed advice on various assembling tools before purchasing? Our BAER customer service will be happy to help!