What Are Common Types of Fasteners?

Fasteners are an integral part of industrial applications and can be found implemented across numerous industries. Useful for securing several parts together, they ultimately make up a large portion of components that can be found in any machine. Though you may be familiar with fasteners as a whole, this guide is here to help establish the different variations that are specific to each general type of hardware. From hex leg screws to wheel nuts, we invite you to read on as we explore well-known fastener types you are likely to encounter in various operations.

Screws

As the most common form of fastener, screws can be found in residential, commercial, and industrial applications alike. They generally consist of a threaded rod with a head on one end that can be designed with grooves or special flanges to assist with installation. Due to their threaded shaft, screws inserted into dense materials require pre-made, internal threads in bored holes. However, in softer materials, screws can often create self-imposed threading during installation using a screwdriver. For example, drywall screws are designed with coarse threads and fine tips to be easily twisted into drywall without damaging the material.

Bolts

Like screws, bolts have a threaded rod and head; however, their tails are typically blunted at the end to allow for a nut to be twisted onto it. With this design, bolts can effectively clamp two or more components between two heads, one manufactured, and the other formed by a nut. Some common fasteners include carriage bolts, allen bolts, plow bolts, flange bolts, fastening anchor bolts, and double end bolts. Of these types, Allen bolts are one of the most common, having a hexagonal socket that allows them to be installed very securely using an Allen wrench.

Nuts

Often working in conjunction with bolts, nuts are a type of cylindrical fastener that incorporate internal threading. When twisted onto the tail end of a bolt, they can be used to create a second head to hold materials contained between the two heads. Some common variations are wheel nuts, anchor nuts, cap nuts, flange nuts, and more. For example, wheel nuts, also called lug nuts, are used for securing the wheels of vehicles firmly in place, and they feature a very sturdy design that can handle a harsh working environment.

Nails

Nails are the oldest known fasteners, having been used in ancient times, but they still find frequent use in modern construction. While having a similar design to screws in shape, nails do not have threading on their rods. Due to this, screws make a stronger attachment, but nails have better shearing properties which can make them a great choice for certain applications. For example, flooring nails are very commonly used for their simple, but effective, way of attaching flooring without damaging much of the surrounding material.

Conclusion

As objects that connect multiple components together, fasteners can be found in nearly any assembly, creating a secure hold to prevent surfaces from coming apart. Thus, it is important to always source high-quality fasteners that can handle the unique demands of your operations. At The Industrial Mart, we make it easy for you to find the hardware you need with rapid lead times and competitive price points without compromising product quality. Browse our inventory of over 2 billion new, used, obsolete, and hard-to-find parts with ease, and upon discovering particular items of interest, be sure to send us an Instant Request for Quote (RFQ) form today to receive a competitive quote in 15 minutes or less!