Our Torx fasteners use a six-point star recess (ISO 10664) that transmits high torque with almost no cam-out, extending bit life and enabling precise, repeatable tightening. Available in countersunk, pan, button, and cap-head styles plus tamper-resistant pin-Torx Torx drives are the standard for automotive, electronics, and automated assembly.

Torx Fasteners Metric Sizes

What Is a Torx Fastener?

A Torx fastener uses a six-pointed, star-shaped drive recess that engages a matching Torx bit across a large contact area. This geometry, standardised as ISO 10664, allows very high torque to be applied with virtually no cam-out, the slipping that damages both bit and fastener on cross-recess drives. The result is faster, more reliable driving, longer tool life, and precise, repeatable clamp loads, which is why Torx has become the drive of choice in automotive, electronics, and high-volume automated assembly.

Torx fasteners are available in a full range of head styles including countersunk, pan, button, and socket cap, in sizes denoted T-numbers (for example T10, T25, T40) that correspond to the recess size. Security or tamper-resistant versions, known as pin-Torx or Torx security screws, feature a central pin in the recess that blocks a standard bit, requiring a special pinned driver ideal for public fixtures, enclosures, and warranty-protected equipment. Torx Plus is an evolved profile offering even higher torque and longer tool life.

Key Features and Benefits

• Near-Zero Cam-Out: The star recess keeps the bit seated under high torque, protecting both fastener and tool from wear.
• Higher Torque Transfer: Large contact area transmits more torque than slotted or cross drives at the same size.
• Extended Tool Life: Reduced slipping means Torx bits last far longer, cutting tooling costs in production.
• Precise, Repeatable Tightening: Consistent engagement supports accurate automated torque control.
• Tamper-Resistant Options: Pin-Torx security recesses block standard bits, deterring unauthorised removal.

Materials and Finishes

• Carbon Steel (Zinc Plated): Cost-effective Torx fasteners for general assembly.
• Alloy Steel Class 10.9 / 12.9: High-strength Torx cap screws for machinery and automotive joints.
• Stainless Steel A2 / A4: Corrosion-resistant Torx fasteners for outdoor, marine, and hygienic use.

Standards Compliance

• ISO 10664 Hexalobular (Torx) internal driving feature for bolts and screws.
• ISO 14579 Hexalobular socket head cap screws.
• ISO 14581 / 14583 Countersunk and pan head hexalobular screws.

Common Applications and Industries

Torx drives are standard across the automotive industry, from engine and brake components to interior trim, where high, repeatable torque and long tool life keep production lines efficient. Consumer electronics, appliances, and IT hardware use small Torx fasteners for reliable, cam-out-free assembly of compact enclosures. Power tools, garden machinery, and bicycles adopt Torx for its durability under repeated servicing.

Security pin-Torx fasteners protect public infrastructure, electrical enclosures, playground and transit equipment, and warranty-sealed products from tampering. In automated and robotic assembly, the Torx drive's resistance to cam-out makes tightening more consistent and reduces bit changes, lowering cost per unit across high-volume manufacturing.

How to Choose the Right Torx Fastener

Match the T-size of the recess to your bits and the fastener's head; using the correct size is essential to achieve full engagement and avoid wear. Choose the head style for the finish and function countersunk for flush mounting, pan or button for a low profile, and socket cap for high-strength machine assembly.

Decide whether tamper resistance is needed: pin-Torx security recesses block standard bits and suit public or warranty-sealed products. For the highest torque and tool life in demanding production, consider Torx Plus with matching bits. Finally, select the material and finish zinc-plated or alloy steel for strength, A2 or A4 stainless for corrosion resistance and add a locking method where vibration is a concern.

Size Range and Availability

Available in M2 through M20 across countersunk, pan, button, and socket cap heads, in standard and pin-Torx security drives, in zinc-plated steel and A2/A4 stainless.

Why Buy From Metric Specialties

As dedicated metric fastener specialists, we hold torx fasteners in the sizes, grades, and finishes that engineers actually need, backed by clear DIN and ISO standard references so you can specify with confidence. Every item is sourced to recognised standards and quality-controlled, giving you consistent thread fit, strength, and corrosion performance across repeat orders.

Whether you need a single item for a repair or bulk quantities for production, our range, technical guidance, and fast dispatch help you find the exact fastener for the job. If you are unsure which size, grade, or finish suits your application, our team can help you match the right product to your load, environment, and standard, so your assemblies are reliable and built to last.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a Torx fastener used for?

Torx fasteners are used wherever high, repeatable torque and long tool life matter in automotive, electronics, appliances, and automated production lines. Their anti-cam-out drive suits both hand and powered assembly.

2. What is the difference between Torx and Phillips?

Torx uses a six-point star recess that resists cam-out and transmits more torque, while Phillips is a cross recess that can slip under load. Torx offers greater precision, tool life, and torque capacity.

3. What do Torx sizes like T20 and T25 mean?

The T-number denotes the size of the star recess and its matching bit. Larger numbers mean larger recesses for example T20 is smaller than T25. Always match the bit to the fastener's T-size.

4. What is a pin-Torx or security Torx screw?

A pin-Torx (security Torx) screw has a raised pin in the centre of the recess that blocks a standard Torx bit, requiring a special pinned driver. It deters tampering on public fixtures and enclosures.

5. What is Torx Plus?

Torx Plus is an advanced version of the Torx drive with a refined profile that offers even higher torque capacity and longer tool life. It requires Torx Plus bits for optimal engagement.

6. Are Torx fasteners available in stainless steel?

Yes. We stock A2 and A4 stainless Torx fasteners for corrosion-resistant applications in marine, outdoor, food, and medical equipment.

7. Why do manufacturers prefer Torx for automated assembly?

The Torx drive stays seated under high torque, reducing cam-out, misfeeds, and bit wear. This makes automated tightening more consistent and lowers tooling replacement costs on production lines.

8. Can I use a Torx bit on a Torx Plus screw?

A standard Torx bit will partially engage a Torx Plus recess but with reduced contact and torque capacity. For full performance and to avoid wear, use the correct Torx Plus bit.

9. What sizes do you stock for Torx fasteners?

We stock M2 through M20 across countersunk, pan, button, and cap heads, in standard and security pin-Torx drives, in zinc-plated steel and A2/A4 stainless.

10. Do Torx fasteners resist loosening?

The drive itself does not lock the fastener, but its precise torque control improves clamp consistency. For vibration resistance, add a locking method such as a lock washer or thread-locker.