A fastener is a mechanical device used to join two or more parts together, typically in a non-permanent way—meaning it can be disassembled without damaging the parts. Standard fasteners include screws, bolts, nuts, studs, washers, rivets, anchors, and nails.
They are essential across industries—automotive, aerospace, military, electronics, and construction—where removable, modular joints are critical.
Key Fastener Categories
1. Threaded Fasteners
- Bolts & Screws: Feature external threads mating with nuts or tapped holes to achieve strong clamping force – available in both metric (ISO) and imperial standards.
- Nuts & Locknuts: Secure threaded components; locking variants prevent vibration-induced loosening.
- Studs: Threaded rods engaged at both ends, used as permanent mounting posts or inserts.
2. Non-Threaded Fasteners
- Rivets: Installed and deformed in place, creating a permanent, load-resistant bond—ideal for structural assemblies.
- Anchors: Embedded sticks hold components securely in concrete or masonry.
- Nails: Quick, economical fastening options, especially in woodworking.
3. Specialty & Locking Devices
- Washers: Distribute load, prevent loosening, damp shock, and insulate electrical connections.
- Locking Washers/Nuts: Designed for high-vibration environments.
- Captive Fasteners: Such as Dzus quarter-turn fittings, suited for quick panel access in aerospace or defense systems.
Why Fasteners Matter
- Modularity & Maintenance: Fasteners allow easy disassembly for repair, inspection, or upgrades—vital in aerospace and military applications.
- Reusability: Unlike permanent bonds, fasteners support reuse and reduce lifecycle costs.
- Safety & Precision: Proper torque ensures consistent preload and joint integrity; incorrect fasteners can result in fatigue or catastrophic failure.
Standards & Quality Controls
- ISO 898 / ISO 3506: Define tensile and mechanical properties for metric steel, stainless, and alloy fasteners.
- US Regulations: Metallic fasteners ≥6 mm (¼″) must comply with mechanical property and traceability standards under 15 U.S.C. 5402.
- Thread Production: Rolled threads are standard for higher strength and fatigue resistance, while cutting may be used for specialty threads.
- Materials & Coatings: Steel, stainless, alloy, titanium, and composite options selected based on application needs. Coatings like zinc, cadmium, and passivations improve corrosion resistance.
Why It Matters
Fasteners, though small and often overlooked, are pivotal to system integrity. Proper selection, testing, and installation:
- Prevent failures under load, vibration, or harsh environments.
- Support traceability, compliance, and auditability in regulated sectors.
- Ensure maintainability of complex systems—from satellites to infrastructure.
Fastener Overview Table
| Fastener Type | Characteristic | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Threaded Bolts & Screws | Reusable; preload via torque | Engines, avionics, chassis |
| Nuts (incl. locknuts) | Completes threaded joint; resists loosening | Vibration-prone joints |
| Washers | Load distribution, surface protection, insulation | Soft materials; electrical panels |
| Rivets & Anchors | Permanent; high shear strength | Airframes; concrete mounting |
| Captive / Quick-Release | Tool-less or fast access | Aerospace panels; field kits |
Partner with Metric Bolt
At Metric Bolt, we supply top-tier fasteners—bolts, screws, nuts, rivets, anchors, and quick-release hardware—with ISO, MIL‑SPEC, and DFARS compliance. Our fasteners come with full certifications, material traceability, and engineering guidance.
Need precision fasteners for your next project?
Contact Metric Bolt to request quotes, tech support, or certified inventory.
