Looking To Purchase Metric Fasteners? Learn What Factors You Should Consider To Select The Right Fasteners For Your Needs
Metric fasteners are used on a variety of items, including automobiles, boats, and machinery. They are the bolts, screws, nuts, and washers used to adhere parts together. As metric fasteners are used in a wide array of applications, there are a number of different types of fasteners. If you are in the market for some, it is important to learn what factors you should consider to help select the right fasteners for your needs. Here are four of the things you need to consider when you are looking to purchase metric fasteners.
The Bolthead Style
One of the most important factors to consider when you are selecting metric fasteners is the bolthead style. There are many bolthead styles, including oval, pan, hex, flat, flange, round, truss, binding, and fillister. Each bolthead style has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. For example, flat boltheads lay flush against the item they are screwed into, helping to hide the screw. Hex boltheads are often used in automobiles and aviation, as the hex style helps to prevent the bolt from moving or shifting, even with a lot of vibration.
How the Fastener Is Driven Into Place
Another factor to consider when you are purchasing metric fasteners is how the fastener is driven into place, also referred to as the drive style. The drive style dictates what tool you will need to use to fasten the fastener into place. Slotted, Phillips, spanner, clutch, and square are just a few common types of drive styles available on metric fastening devices.
The Thread Style
Most metric fasteners are either fully threaded or partially threaded. A fully threaded fastener is typically easier to install, but the bolt or fastener is more likely to move or become unthreaded due to vibration or motion. You have to consider whether vibration will cause the bolts or fasteners to move when deciding whether or not to use a fully threaded or partially threaded metric fastener.
The Metal the Fastener Is Made From
Lastly, you need to consider what type of metal the metric fastener is made from. Metric fasteners can be made from many different types of metal, including aluminum, steel, nickel, zinc, and even copper. Each metal material has its own pros and cons, such as its ability to withstand heat, moisture, and other elements. Consider what elements your fasteners will be subjected to and find a metal material that can withstand those elements.
Metric fasteners can be used in a variety of different ways and can be used on a multitude of different items. Taking the time to consider the above four factors will help you find the metric fasteners that are best suited for your task.