What is a double-ended radiator key?
What is a double ended radiator key? |
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The parts of a double-ended radiator key are:
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A double-ended radiator key has a 10mm square on one end for installation of 1/2 inch air vent plugs and half-inch blanking plugs.
A blanking plug simply plugs, or blanks off, one of the top two tappings – internally threaded holes into which valves can be fitted – of a radiator. |
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The square end is often described as a ‘machined’ end. ‘Machined’ means the square shape has been made by milling the end with a machine, rather than it being cast or moulded in that shape. | |||
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The other, hexagonal (six-sided), end of the double ended key is for the installation and removal of radiator valve tails which have a hexagonal (six-sided) internal shape. | |||
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Some radiator valves have internal lugs – small projections like studs that provide the grip for a spanner. The double-ended key has grooves along its valve-tail end for the removal of this kind of tail.
For step-by-step guides to using this and some other keys, see: What are the different types of radiator key?
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This key is usually made of high tensile steel which is galvanised or zinc coated for corrosion protection. | |||
