What does HEX mean with respect to construction equipment?

Answer 1

HEX, short for Hexagonal, applies to a type of turret lathe, common in automobile plants and parts workshops, that has a series of 6 tool heads for progressively shaping auto parts in a hexagonal turret. The shape is visible as one views or operates the machine. These are normally semi-automatic. the machinist sets up the machine- has the tool bits in the proper sequence, tightens the work in the vises or clamps- and making appropriate safety checks- presses the Green Button. After the pre-programmed sequence is complete- out drops the appropriate gears, cams, etc , ready for the production line. Hex Turret lathes were so popular in Detroit a number of automakers used a Hexagon as a trade mark. at various times Pierce ( usually styled Pierce-Arrow) and Packard had Hexagon trademarks. It was claimed Packard made their own lathes ( through a tool subsidiary which may still be around) Naturally, quality was tops. This is not at all unusua. Pratt & Whitney- aircraft engine builder and part of United Technologies originally and still made all matter of heavy duty production lathes, milling machines, etc. so Hex refers to Hexagonal.