U-bolts are a curved type of fastener, in the shape of the letter U, with screw threads on each end. Most commonly used in pipework, U-bolts are available in a wide variety of sizes and materials and can even be manufactured specially to suit any application should this be required.
U-bolts work by utilising their unique shape to form a clamp-type motion and, along with the help of nuts and washers, are used to secure round and even sometimes square objects. This design has been commonly found in pipework applications, where U-bolts clamp pipes in to place, offering stability and preventing any unwanted movement. Alongside pipework support, U-bolts can also be used to attach objects to walls, beams and other surfaces. U-bolts can also be embedded in to concrete as an alternative to anchor bolts or even used to secure fencing posts. In addition to these examples mentioned, U-bolts are critical to the automotive industry as they are used to attach leaf springs to vehicle axles.
Due to the variety of industries that these fasteners benefit, U-bolts are available in a large range of materials and finishes. As with most fasteners, carbon steel is the most common material U-bolts are supplied in as they provide a high-level of durability and can be zinc plated or galvanised to increase their corrosion resistance. For outdoor applications, U-bolts are more commonly found in A2 stainless steel or even A4 stainless steel for marine related projects. U-bolts can also be produced in many other materials including Monel, Aluminium, Mild & High Tensile Steel but others are available on request.
U-bolts are measured by their nominal bore (NB) which is an engineering term that relates to the internal diameter of a pipe. U-bolts can also be supplied in varying diameters providing the same NB but in varying thicknesses should a thinner or thicker specification be required. They can also be supplied with longer overall legs or indeed any thread lengths to suit all projects. The shape of a U-bolt can also vary, while a U shape is most common, square shape U-bolts can also be supplied. U-bolts can be offered in many specifications and can even be specially manufactured to a drawing if the required size is not standard.
For any more information or to make an enquiry, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly sales team at sales@leytonfasteners.co.uk or please call 01513558045.
