Different types of fasteners used in manufacturing: Screws, bolts & beyond
Fasteners are essential components used in almost all types of manufacturing. They are used to hold two or more parts together and come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Fasteners can be divided into three primary categories: screws, bolts, and nuts. In this article, we will take a closer look at the different types of fasteners and their uses.
Screws
Screws are the most common type of fastener and are used in a wide variety of applications. They are typically made from metal and have a threaded shaft that is designed to be screwed into a pre-drilled hole. Common types of screws include wood screws, sheet metal screws, machine screws, and self-tapping screws.
Wood screws are designed for use with wood and other soft materials. They have a sharp point that is designed to penetrate the material and a head that is designed to hold the screw securely in place. Sheet metal screws are designed for use with sheet metal and other thin materials. They have a flat head with a small Phillips head, which is designed to keep the screw from sliding out of place. Machine screws are designed for use with metal and other hard materials. They have a flat head and a cylindrical body, which is designed to resist twisting.
Self-tapping screws are designed to create their own threads as they are screwed into a pre-drilled hole. This makes them ideal for use with softer materials, such as plastic and plywood. Self-tapping screws are also available in many different sizes and styles, including Phillips, Flathead, Hex head, and Torx.
Bolts
Bolts are another type of fastener used in manufacturing. They are similar to screws, but have a wider head and a thicker body. Bolts are typically used to join two or more pieces of metal together. Common types of bolts include carriage bolts, lag bolts, and eye bolts.
Carriage bolts are designed for use with wood and other soft materials. They have a round head and a square shoulder, which is designed to prevent the bolt from turning when it is tightened. Lag bolts are designed for use with wood and other soft materials. They have a hexagonal head and a threaded shank, which allows them to be installed easily and securely. Eye bolts are designed for use with metal and other hard materials. They have a circular head and a threaded shank, which allows them to be used in a variety of applications.
Nuts
Nuts are another type of fastener used in manufacturing. They are designed to be used with bolts and screws and are typically made from metal. Common types of nuts include hex nuts, lock nuts, and flange nuts.
Hex nuts are the most common type of nut and are designed to be used with a hex-headed bolt. They have a hexagonal shape that is designed to fit securely onto the bolt. Lock nuts are designed to keep the nut from loosening over time. They have a thread pattern that is designed to create friction when tightened, which helps to keep the nut secure. Flange nuts are designed to be used with screws and are typically used in applications where a large area needs to be secured. They have a wide flange that is designed to distribute the load evenly.
Conclusion
Fasteners are essential components used in almost all types of manufacturing. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, and can be used to hold two or more pieces together. The three primary types of fasteners are screws, bolts, and nuts. Each type has its own unique design and purpose, and can be used in a wide variety of applications.