3 Key Questions to Ask for Choosing the Right Type of Fastener

Fasteners are multi-purpose fixtures that can be found in almost any industry. Choosing the most appropriate fastener for the job is essential for performance, durability, safety, and dependability. This post aims to answer the three fundamental questions fasteners buyers most often ask. Each question contains valuable information to help you find the best fastener for your specific application.

1- What is the Fastener’s Application?

A fastener’s application varies depending on its type, overall design, and features. For example, a cotter pin has less holding power than a screw or bolt, as it tends to loosen or fall out when tightened. A hex nut has less holding power because of its shape (hexagon) and orientation.

There are three common types of fasteners, studs, bolts, and screws. Bolts have threaded, or smooth Allen heads and can be either concealed or exposed. Screws have smooth shank surfaces with self-tapping and uncovered spreads.

Screws are the most popular fasteners designed to be used individually or in a set. Primarily, fasteners are available in different materials and lengths determined mainly by the number of outside threads per inch and the stress-carrying properties. Identifying the perfect fasteners meeting your fastening project’s design and performance requirements is essential.

2- What Fastener is Perfect for the Job?

The ideal fastener for the particular job fits the purpose and application. In choosing the perfect fastener for a specific application, check its material, strength, size, and shape. For example, metal alloy bolts are suited for high-pressure and stress projects, while plastic bolts work perfectly for non-load-bearing applications.

It is required you first research and understand the role the fastener will play in the assembly. Fasteners are used for various purposes, including reinforcing, assembly and alignment. The best fastener for the job is one that gets the assembly job done perfectly and accurately. Research where the clasp will be applied and how it will affect the strength and performance of the whole project or product.

3- What Materials is the Fastener Made of?

The architectural and physical specs of a fastener depend on the construction materials. When measuring a fastener’s strength, manufacturers often evaluate its tensile strength and the maximum stress it can bear before it tears apart. Remember, a fastener designed for high-stress environments and high-performance needs will usually have higher tensile strength.

Technically, higher tensile metal grades, including A354 and A307, will always have higher tensile strengths compared to low-cost options such as 304SS or 316SS. Understand the difference between loose fasteners and fixed fasteners. Fixed fasteners are intended for permanent applications, while loose fasteners are removable. Epoxies have low initial elongation and high joint strength but limited creep resistance. Know the specific materials for different applications to avoid opting for the wrong fasteners.

Finding a suitable fastener that meets your application needs is critical to building quality products and the durable assembly of machine parts. Fasteners are different manufactured in lengths, diameters, and thread sizes. The main types of plastic fasteners include single-use, long-term, and permanent plastic fasteners. Plastic fasteners are lightweight, durable, and often resistant to corrosion and other types of weathering.

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