Fasteners are a critical part of any fastening system. The issue that they come in many different shapes and sizes, so it can be hard to know what fastener you need for your specific application.
With that in mind, let’s give you a few tips to help you avoid common mistakes made by those trying to order the correct fasteners for the job.
Tip #1: Consider the Strength of the Fastener
The first tip we have for you is ensuring you take into account the strength of the fastener. The fastener you choose should not only have a high shear strength but also be able to protect against various working loads.
One of the most common mistakes when selecting fasteners is picking one with little or no resistance to tension forces, so be sure to choose one with an appropriate level of resistance for your specific application. One way around this issue is using fasteners with self-locking properties like bolts and screws so that you can ensure they can fasten the joint securely.
This is also an excellent time to mention that fasteners come in various strength classes, so make sure to research your grades and classes before making your choice.
Tip #2: Pay Attention to the Torque Rating
The next tip is to pay attention to the torque rating of your fastener. If fasteners are used to hold a load, then the fastener’s torque rating should be as low as possible.
Low-torque fasteners can provide some relief for joints when they’re being subjected to heavy loads. Using these fasteners will reduce the chance of joint fatigue and failure because it will make less work for them.
For lighter loads, fasteners you can use a higher torque rating fastener. Screws are often better for these types of fastener jobs because they tend to have a higher torque load than bolts (especially when screwing screws into wood, for example).
Bolts, on the other hand, might not provide enough holding force in this situation and could actually make things worse by stripping or becoming unfastened.
Tip #3: Check (and Double Check) the Screw Size of Your Fastener
Because fasteners come in different sizes, it’s essential to check the screw size of your fastener before you purchase. You can do this by looking at the packaging material, the fastener itself, or by talking to a member of our knowledgeable team about the fastener in question.
A fastener that is too big will not fit snugly and might fall out over time. By contrast, a fastener that is too small could cause damage if used for long periods. So check, double-check, and check again to make sure you are ordering the correct fastener size!
Tip #4: Use Fasteners with Anti-Corrosion Coating
If you are fastening joints in humid environments or where there is likely to be a lot of moisture, then make sure to choose a fastener with an anti-corrosion coating. It will take a lot longer to rust and will likely last much longer than other fasteners without corrosion protection.
Fasteners with corrosion protection will cost more upfront, but the investment is worth it in the long run since you’ll spend less on replacements further down the road.
Leyton Fasteners Supply All Types of Industrial Fasteners
So there you have it. There are four quick tips that will help you to choose the correct fastener solution for your specific project.
Here at Leyton Fasteners, we’ve been supplying an almost infinite range of industrial fasteners for more than four decades. We are market leaders in the industrial fasteners industry and provide a range of products to firms large and small, including but not limited to nuts, washers, bolts, screws, and other related fastening materials.
We carry a large inventory of obsolete fasteners in a range of sizes and materials. We take pride in stocking all types of products, from speciality nuts to everyday screws. If your requirements are unusual, then we are the outfit for you.
Lastly, we offer next working day delivery across mainland UK, making sure you ensuring get the fasteners you need quickly.
Call us on 0151 355 8045 or send us an email at sales@leytonfasteners.co.uk with your requirements, and a member of our team will return a quote on the same day you submit your request.
Know what you need already? Head straight over to our brand new online shop to order your fasteners today!
