Steckschlüsselgrößen

Steckschlüsselgrößen, commonly known as socket sizes, refer to the standardized measurements of the internal hexagonal opening of a socket wrench. These sizes dictate which nuts and bolts a particular socket can effectively grip and turn. The primary systems for measuring these sizes are the metric and the imperial (SAE) systems.

In the metric system, sizes are expressed in millimeters (mm), such as 8 mm, 10 mm, 13 mm, 17 mm, and so on. These are the most common sizes found in modern tools and equipment manufactured globally. The imperial system, often used in North America and the United Kingdom, uses fractions of an inch (e.g., 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch). Within the imperial system, there are also specific fractional inch measurements for the socket opening itself, such as 7/16", 1/2", 9/16", etc.

The drive size of a socket wrench, which is the square protrusion that engages with the ratchet or handle, is also a crucial factor in determining compatibility. Common drive sizes include 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, and 1/2 inch, with larger industrial applications using 3/4 inch or even 1-inch drives. The size of the drive is independent of the socket opening size. For example, a 10 mm socket can have a 1/4 inch drive, a 3/8 inch drive, or a 1/2 inch drive. Ensuring the correct match between the socket size, the fastener, and the drive size is essential for efficient and damage-free work.