If you’re in the market for fasteners, you may have come across metric fasteners. These types of fasteners are commonly used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. Metric fasteners are measured in millimeters and are designed to fit metric-sized holes. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including nuts, bolts, and screws.
At Fastening Specialists, we understand that finding the right fastener for your application can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer a wide selection of metric fasteners to fit your needs. As a trusted wholesale distributor for over 65 years, we are specialists in this field and can provide you with the best in product value, insight, code expertise, and order fulfillment. Whether you need metric nuts, bolts, or screws, we have you covered.
Types of Metric Fasteners
When it comes to metric fasteners, there are several types that are commonly used in a variety of industries. Understanding the differences between these types can help you choose the right fastener for your specific application. In this section, we will cover the most common types of metric fasteners, including metric nuts, bolts, machine screws, threaded rod, and washers.
Metric Nuts
Metric nuts come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including hex, square, and wing nuts. They are used to secure bolts and screws in place and can be made from a range of materials, including steel, stainless steel, and brass. Metric nuts are available in both coarse and fine thread pitches.
Metric Bolts
Metric bolts are similar to metric screws, but they are typically larger and used for heavier-duty applications. Carriage bolts are a common type of metric bolt that are used to secure wood and other materials in place. They have a smooth, rounded head and a square neck that prevents the bolt from turning when it is tightened.
Machine Screws
Machine screws are used to fasten metal parts together and are available in a range of sizes and thread pitches. They are typically made from steel or stainless steel and come in a variety of head styles, including pan, flat, and round.
Threaded Rod
Threaded rod is a type of fastener that is used to create a strong, threaded connection between two objects. It is often used in construction and manufacturing applications and is available in a range of sizes and thread pitches.
Washers
Washers are used in conjunction with nuts and bolts to distribute the load and prevent damage to the surface being fastened. They come in a range of sizes and materials, including steel, stainless steel, and nylon.
Material and Coatings
When it comes to choosing the right material and coating for your metric fasteners, there are a few options to consider. Here are some of the most popular choices:
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a popular choice for metric fasteners because it is strong, durable, and resistant to corrosion. It is available in a variety of grades, each with its own unique properties. For example, 18-8 stainless steel is a common grade that offers good corrosion resistance and strength. If you need a higher level of corrosion resistance, you may want to consider a grade like 316 stainless steel.
Brass
Brass is another popular choice for metric fasteners. It is a corrosion-resistant material that is also easy to machine. Brass is often used in applications where a decorative finish is desired, such as in furniture or architectural hardware.
Nylon Coatings
If you need a fastener that is resistant to vibration and noise, you may want to consider a nylon coating. Nylon coatings can help to reduce noise and vibration by providing a cushion between the fastener and the material it is securing. They are also resistant to corrosion and can help to protect the fastener from damage.
Metric Fastener Standards
When it comes to metric fasteners, there are several standards that are used to ensure consistency in sizing and thread pitch. Here are some of the most widely recognized standards:
DIN Standards
DIN standards are developed by the Deutsches Institut für Normung (German Institute for Standardization). These standards cover a wide range of products, including fasteners. DIN fasteners are known for their high quality and precision.
ISO Standards
ISO standards are developed by the International Organization for Standardization. These standards are recognized worldwide and cover a wide range of products, including fasteners. ISO fasteners are known for their high quality and durability.
JIS Standards
JIS standards are developed by the Japanese Industrial Standards Committee. These standards cover a wide range of products, including fasteners. JIS fasteners are known for their high quality and precision.
ANSI Standards
ANSI standards are developed by the American National Standards Institute. These standards cover a wide range of products, including fasteners. ANSI fasteners are known for their high quality and durability.
It is important to choose the right metric fastener standard for your application. Choosing the wrong standard can result in a poor fit or even failure of the fastener.
Sizing and Measurement
When it comes to metric fasteners, understanding sizing and measurement is crucial. Here are some important factors to consider:
Diameter and Pitch
The size of a metric screw or bolt is specified as diameter and pitch, both measured in millimeters. The diameter refers to the distance across the widest point of the threads, while the pitch refers to the distance between each thread. For example, a M6x1 bolt has a 6mm diameter and a 1mm pitch.
Coarse vs Fine Thread
Metric bolts can be classified as either coarse or fine thread. Coarse thread bolts have fewer threads per inch and are used for general-purpose applications, while fine thread bolts have more threads per inch and are used in applications where a higher degree of precision is required.
Metric Sizes in Millimeters
Metric fasteners are sized in millimeters, with common sizes ranging from M2 to M24. It’s important to note that metric sizes are not equivalent to their imperial counterparts. For example, a 1/4-inch bolt is not the same as a M6 bolt.
Selecting the Right Metric Fastener
When it comes to selecting the right metric fastener, there are a few things to keep in mind. In this section, we’ll cover torque specifications and application-specific fasteners.
Torque Specifications
Torque is the amount of force required to turn a fastener. It’s important to use the correct torque specifications when installing fasteners to ensure they are tightened to the appropriate level. When looking for torque specifications, be sure to consult the manufacturer’s specifications or a reliable reference guide.
Application Specific Fasteners
Different applications require different types of fasteners. For example, socket products are often used in applications where a low profile is necessary, while flange bolts are used in applications where a wider bearing surface is required. When looking for application-specific fasteners, it’s important to consider the specific requirements of your application.
Remember, the team at Fastening Specialists provides advice and best use-cases, but always check with local building codes and engineers for correct usage instructions.