Different Types of Metal Fasteners

Navigating the Lexicon: Basic Terminology in the Fastener Industry

Foundational Knowledge, Fasteners

The fastener industry is an intricate field that plays an indispensable role in almost every sector, from construction and aerospace to automotive and machinery. Whether you’re a newcomer to the fastener world or an industry veteran, understanding the basic terminology can significantly impact the quality of your work. This article aims to demystify the language of screws and fasteners, providing a comprehensive glossary that’s not only educative but also practical.

Screws & Fasteners Terminology

Screw Terminology

Pitch

The pitch refers to the distance between the threads on a screw, generally measured in millimeters or inches. Knowing the pitch is crucial for selecting the right screw for your application.

Drive

The drive is the part of the screw head that allows for the insertion of a tool, such as a screwdriver or a wrench. Common types include Phillips, flathead, and Torx.

Gauge

Gauge signifies the diameter of the screw. The higher the gauge number, the thicker the screw.

Screw Thread Terminology

Thread Count

Thread count, often mistaken with pitch, is the number of threads per inch (TPI) or per centimeter.

Major Diameter

This is the largest diameter of a screw thread, measured from the thread’s outermost boundaries.

Minor Diameter

In contrast, the minor diameter is the smallest diameter, measured between the innermost edges of the threads.

Crest

The crest refers to the surface point of a screw thread, which is opposite the root, the bottom of the thread.

Flank

The flank is the straight sides connecting the crest and the root of the thread.

Fastener Terminology

Nut

A nut is a type of fastener with a threaded hole that aligns with a bolt or a screw.

Washer

A washer is a thin plate with a hole that is typically used to distribute the load of a threaded fastener like a screw or a nut.

Anchor

Anchors are used to attach objects to concrete or masonry. They are inserted into pre-drilled holes and tightened to secure the object.

Threaded Fastener Terminology

Tensile Strength

Tensile strength is the maximum amount of tensile stress a material can withstand without failure.

Yield Strength

Yield strength is the amount of stress at which a material begins to deform plastically during the loading process.

Torque

Torque refers to the turning force applied to tighten a screw or a bolt, generally measured in Newton-meters (Nm) or foot-pounds (ft-lbs).

Ball Screw Terminology

Lead

The lead of a ball screw is the distance a nut will travel with a single revolution of the screw.

Ball Nut

This is a component that circulates ball bearings to convert rotational motion into linear motion.

Lead Screw Terminology

Backlash

Backlash is the small amount of play observed when the direction of movement is reversed, commonly found in lead screws.

Thread Forms

Thread forms refer to the shape of the thread profiles, which could be square, trapezoidal, or acme, among others.

Screw Head Terminology

Countersink

A countersink screw head is designed to sit flush with the surface of the material.

Pan Head

Pan heads are slightly rounded with short vertical sides, often used when the screw head is expected to be seen in the finished product.

Dome Head

Dome heads are entirely rounded, offering an aesthetic finish but providing less torque compared to other heads.

Conclusion

Understanding the basic terminology in the fastener industry can be invaluable for professionals across various sectors. From screws and threads to fasteners and their components, this glossary serves as a foundational guide for anyone interested in the field. As the industry evolves, so too will its language. But these basic terms will remain fundamental, assisting you in making educated decisions for your applications.


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