1. Nuts

Purpose: Nuts are used in combination with screws, bolts, or studs to create secure connections.

• Design: Nuts feature internal threaded holes and come in various shapes, including flat hexagonal, square, or cylindrical designs.
• Application: They work alongside bolts, studs, or machine screws to fasten two parts together, forming a strong and reliable joint.

Example: A nut paired with a bolt secures two metal plates in an automotive assembly.

2. Washers

Purpose: Washers² protect surfaces, distribute load, and prevent loosening of fasteners.

• Design: Washers are flat, oblate rings placed between the fastener’s bearing surface (bolt, screw, or nut) and the connected part.
• Types:
  • Flat Washers: Increase the contact surface area, reduce unit pressure, and protect surfaces from damage.
  • Spring Washers: Provide elasticity to prevent nuts from loosening due to vibrations or movements.

Example: In automotive engines, washers are used to ensure bolts do not loosen due to vibrations.

3. Retaining Rings

Purpose: Retaining rings³ prevent axial movement of components on a shaft or in a housing.

• Design: Retaining rings are circular fasteners installed into grooves on shafts or holes.
• Application: They hold parts in position and stop them from sliding or shifting during operation.

Example: Used in machinery to secure gears or bearings on rotating shafts.

4. Pins

Purpose: Pins are versatile fasteners used for positioning, fixing parts, or transmitting power.

• Design: Pins come in various types, such as dowel pins, cotter pins, and taper pins.
• Application:
  • Positioning: Align components accurately.
  • Locking: Prevent movement of other fasteners.
  • Connection: Link mechanical components for stability or power transmission.

Example: Dowel pins align two machine parts during assembly to ensure precision.

5. Rivets

Purpose: Rivets⁴ are used to create non-detachable connections between components.

• Design: Rivets consist of a head and a shank.
• Application: Riveting involves inserting the rivet through pre-drilled holes and deforming its end to create a permanent joint.
• Key Characteristic: The connection formed by rivets is not easily removable—the rivet must be destroyed to separate the parts.

Example: Rivets are commonly used in airplane fuselages and steel bridges to ensure durability under stress.

6. Welding Nails

Purpose: Welding nails⁵ provide permanent connections through welding.

• Design: Welding nails consist of a nail head (or no head) and a nail rod.
• Application: They are welded to a component, creating a strong, immovable connection with other parts.

Example: Welding nails are used in construction to secure steel plates to structural beams.

Final Thoughts: A Diverse World of Fasteners

While screws and bolts are the most commonly recognized fasteners, other components like nuts, washers, rivets, and pins⁶ play equally critical roles in creating secure, durable, and reliable connections. Each fastener type serves a unique purpose, tailored to specific assembly needs, from furniture and machinery to construction and aerospace applications.

At FHT, we provide a full range of high-quality fasteners, ensuring you have the right components for every application. Whether you need screws, rivets, washers, or retaining rings, our products are precision-engineered to meet the highest industry standards.

Need a reliable fastener supplier?
Contact us today to explore our complete range of fasteners and request a quote!

Footnotes

1. Fasteners: Overview of types and their applications beyond screws and bolts.
2. Washers: Details on how washers help prevent loosening and distribute load.
3. Retaining rings: Explanation of retaining rings’ role in preventing axial movement.
4. Rivets: Comparison with bolts and understanding their use as permanent fasteners.
5. Welding nails: Application of welding nails in construction for structural stability.

6. Pins are fasteners used for alignment and securing components, ensuring stability in assemblies.