It can be frustrating to deal with a rounded bolt when doing industrial assembly, automotive repair or woodworking jobs. A rounded bolt means that the edges of the bolt head are rounded off, so a standard spanner tool may not work. Ajay Industries provides a wide range of hand tools to DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians. In this guide, we’ll help you know what tools can be used to remove a rounded bolt, the ways to prevent rounded bolts and steps to remove them.
What are the causes of rounded bolts?
Rounded bolts can be the result of several factors, especially when you use the wrong tool, over-tighten bolts, or corrosion over time. When the corners of the bolt head are worn, it becomes difficult to grip. It’s essential to identify the causes of rounded bolts to prevent future damage and choose the right removal techniques.
Different types of tools used for stripped bolt removal
Before you attempt to remove a rounded bolt, you must have the right tools in place. Here are the most common hand tools:
- Use a socket set with an impact driver
- Rounded bolt extractor
- Pliers or locking pliers
- Lubricating oil for rusted bolts
- Chisel and hammer for stubborn bolts
Contact Ajay Industries, one of the best hand tools manufacturers, to buy the right tools to ensure that the bolt is removed safely without causing damage to the surrounding material.
How to remove a rounded bolt?
When removing a rounded bolt, you need to opt for the right technique to ensure that you are removing the rounded bolt safely. Here, we have mentioned a few techniques that can be used to remove rounded bolts. Have a closer look at these step-by-step techniques for damaged bolt extraction:
- Use penetrating oil: You can spray penetrating oil on the rounded bolt that you want to remove and let the oil sit for 10-15 minutes. This will reduce friction and loosen rust, making it easy for you to remove a rusted, rounded bolt.
- Use a bolt extractor: To remove a stubborn rounded bolt, you can choose the right size of a bolt extractor that fits perfectly onto the rounded bolt, and rotate it counterclockwise using a spanner or impact driver. If you are looking for a wide range of spanners, you can buy from Ajay Industries.
- Locking plier method: Use a locking plier that must fit perfectly onto the bolt head and turn it slowly to remove the bolt. Make sure to buy the right and best-quality locking pliers.
- Chisel and hammer: If you are dealing with extremely stubborn bolts, you can tap a chisel into the edges of the bolt head, but ensure it does not damage the bolt. It should be at the right angle to create a groove for turning the rounded bolt.
- Drilling the bolt: Last but not least, you can drill a small hole into the middle of the bolt and use a screw extractor to rotate it.
How to prevent rounded bolts?
Many ways can be used to prevent rounded bolts. Before you have to struggle with the rounded bolt removal process, you can opt for some ways to prevent rounded bolts. Here are a few tips that you can follow:
- Make sure to use the right size spanner or socket.
- Most of the time, individuals over-tighten bolts, which is the primary reason for rounded bolts. It’s recommended to follow torque specifications and avoid over-tightening the bolt.
- You can use anti-seize lubricant on bolts in corrosive or outdoor environments.
- Remember to examine and replace worn tools to ensure proper grip.
Conclusion
If you work with fasteners daily, you need to know ways to remove a rounded bolt. You must always use the right tools, apply penetrating oil, and follow the right steps to extract or remove stubborn rounded bolts safely and efficiently. By buying the best quality tools from Ajay Industries, you can remove stubborn rounded bolts while keeping your projects running smoothly.
Despite this, we also manufacture and supply plumbing tools, carpentry tools, automotive tools, and other types of hand tools. You can get in touch with us to buy quality hand tools or request a quote to know the price of each hand tool.
