Fasteners help to mechanically connect two or more items. A bolt qualifies as a fastener because its only purpose is to combine objects mechanically. Ropes and hinges don’t count because they have other uses.
There are over ten types of bolts used in everyday applications. For example, hex bolts have a high tensile strength, so they are perfect for bridge construction. Bridges need tension and compression to support themselves.
But, how would you know what type of fastener to use in other situations? Each type of bolt works best in specific conditions.
Does it matter how you’re using the bolt? Should you consider the fastener material when deciding what bolt to use? There is a lot to cover about fasteners. Keep reading to learn what you should know when purchasing bolts.
The Right Bolt Matters
Bolts may be small, but they are an integral part of construction projects. Without the correct bolt type, buildings, bridges, and daily appliances would fall apart. You need to know that the quality of the bolt matters as much as the type. If you want a durable and long-lasting product, choose high-quality fasteners.
How to Choose the Right Bolt
You should think about seven things when choosing bolts for industrial work. “How you use the fastener,” “material types,” and “what type of bolt” was previously mentioned.
You also need to consider where you’re using the bolt, what kind of coating the bolt should have, and the fastener size. The final consideration to keep in mind is where you’re purchasing your bolts.
How Are You Using the Bolt?
The first consideration is how you will use your fasteners and the attached item. Konnect Fastening Systems™ offers socket head bolts typically used in furniture manufacturing, construction machinery and assembly lines.
Socket head bolts or socket head cap screws are helpful in areas with limited accessibility. Cup head or carriage bolts are great for adhering timber to timber or steel. A cup head is practical when you can’t access the bolt head easily. The most common of all bolts sold is the common hex head bolt.
What Material Do You Need?
If you know where you’re using the bolt, you’ll know what material it should be. The more durable the material, the less corrosive and prone to failure your fastener is.
Steel bolts are the most common and durable. The correct grade of stainless steel in corrosive areas results in greater corrosion resistance than steel. Aluminum is similar to brass, but lighter weight, and Nylon has the advantage of non-electrical conductivity.
What’s the Right Type of Bolt to Use?
As mentioned earlier, there are plenty of bolt types. There are cup heads and countersunk head type bolts used for construction.
Pay attention to the bolt head to ensure you’re using the suitable fastener. A bolt head’s function is to provide a large surface area of clamping force when the bolts are tensioned.The wrong bolt head may impact your project’s completed function and aesthetic.
Dome head bolts make projects look more visibly appealing and are hard to remove. You’d use dome bolt heads on a product you intend to keep assembled for a long time.
Where Are You Putting the Bolt?
Building a bridge or fence isn’t as easy as purchasing a pack of bolts from the local store. You have to account for where you’re using your bolts. The surrounding environment affects what kind of bolt you can use and the clamping loads required.
Fasteners used indoors don’t need the same durability as outdoors bolts. Stainless steel is intended for use near saltwater with different grades that provide better suitability given the proximity to the ocean but aluminum should be used inside saltwater.
Of course, there are different grades of stainless steel. Grade 304 suitable for most environments except where harsh environments exist such as salt water stainless steel bolts are prone to rust. 316-grade stainless steel is tougher and less likely to degrade near the ocean.
What Coating Do You Need?
Bolt coating aids with corrosion and damage resistance. Galvanized zinc does help bolts stay rust-free but can oxidize if there’s too much humidity or water. Chrome is corrosion-proof and makes fasteners look more appealing.
Consider where you’re using your bolts and choose your coating accordingly.
What Size Fastener Do You Need?
The size of your fastener depends on the size and scale of your project. Bigger, heavier-duty objects may need larger fasteners. Smaller items could potentially use smaller bolts. Konnect Fastening Systems™ Bolts measure from 3/16 inches in diameter to 2-1/2 inches. They also offer metric bolts from M3 to M36.
Are You Using a Trusted Source?
Sourcing bolts is pointless if the source isn’t reliable. It’s important to research where you intend to order your bolts before purchase. These fasteners will go on projects from the mundane to the important.
Properly sourced bolts are a matter of project quality and safety. You can trust Konnect Fastening Systems™ bolts to hold up in many industrial fields, from mining to construction and manufacturing.
Why Should You Use Bolts?
Screws are preferred by many because they’re adaptable and have a secure grip. The advantage bolts have over screws is that they have the greatest holding strength over screws and other fasteners. Bolt threads aid in their strengthened hold, but washers also play their part. Washers help distribute load across a wider area and work as a bearing surface to protect the material being clamped by the bolt.