Types of Threaded Fasteners

Fasteners are mechanical components used to join two or more objects. While other methods of joining exist, such as welding, brazing, adhesives, crimping, and more, many of these are examples of permanent joints. Fasteners form non-permanent joints and can be easily removed. Threaded fasteners are particularly effective at joining two objects thanks to their headed design. Threaded fasteners feature either internal or external screw threads, are easy to install, and just as easy to remove. The three most common types of threaded fasteners are screws, nuts, and bolts. In this blog, we will explain each of them, their unique characteristics, and their uses.

The most common type of threaded fastener is the screw. A screw consists of cylindrical-shaped pieces of metal with a threaded surface that wraps around the sides. Atop the screw is a head, which is used to drive the screw into an object or workpiece. There are many types of screws, each with slight differences. The two most common screws are Phillips head and flat head. Phillips head screws must be installed by a Phillips head screwdriver, and flat head screws must be installed with a flat head screwdriver. Other screw types include machine screws, hex screws, log screws, wood screws, drywall screws, concrete screws, and self-tapping screws.

Another common type of threaded fastener is the nut. These consist of a circular piece of metal with a threaded interior surface and are used in conjunction with a bolt to join two or more objects together. The threaded interior of a nut couples with the threaded exterior of a bolt. When the nut is turned, it will drive up or down the bolt, depending on the direction it is turned. Though this is not true for all nuts, most of them feature a hexagonal exterior. These maintain their cylindrical interior, but the hexagonal exterior is used to simplify the installation process. With six sides, they are easier to grip, allowing them to be installed or removed with minimal effort.

The third and final common threaded fastener is the bolt. It is a popular misconception that bolts and screws are one in the same, but this is simply not accurate. Bolts are used to join two or more unthreaded objects, while screws are used to join two or more threaded objects. Additionally, screws often create their own threads during installation. Bolts are specifically designed to join unthreaded objects in conjunction with a nut. Nuts connect to bolts using their threaded surface, and the threaded exterior of the bolt acts as a track for the threaded interior of the nut.

While not a fastener, washers are frequently used in tandem with bolts and nuts. Washers are thin plates with a central hole that are used to help distribute the load of a threaded fastener. They can also be used as a spacer, spring, wear pad, preload indicating devices, locking device, and to reduce vibration. Whether you need screws, nuts, bolts, washers, or any other type of threaded or non-threaded fastener, Veritable Aerospace can help.

At Veritable Aerospace, owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we offer a vast and diverse range of aircraft parts and components for many applications within the aerospace, civil aviation, and defense industries. In addition to this, our inventory comprises a selection of top-quality parts for the electronic and industrial markets. We’re always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7-365. For a quick and competitive quote, call us at 1-714-705-4780 or email us at sales@veritableaerospace.com.