What Is a Hex Cap Screw?

Not all screws have a head with a recessed drive. While recessed drives are common, some screws have a solid hexagonal head. Known as hex cap screws, they are often used in manufacturing and construction applications. To learn more about … Read More

Flat vs Lock Washers: What You Should Know

Consisting of a disc-shaped piece of material with a hole in the middle, washers are often used with bolts. They are typically used to distribute a bolt’s load more evenly to protect the joined workpiece from damage. Prior to driving … Read More

The Beginner’s Guide to Machine Screws

Machines are often held together with fasteners, one of the most common types being machine screws. From engines and appliances to industrial lathes and milling machines, countless machines contain machine screws. These otherwise simple fasteners join two or more parts. … Read More

What Are the Different Types of Nails?

Nails are fasteners consisting of a smooth cylindrical-shaped piece of metal. They have a sharp point on one end and a flat head on the opposite end. This otherwise basic design allows them to be easily driven into wooden structures … Read More

Countersunk vs Non-Countersunk Screw Heads: What’s the Difference?

With the exception of “grub screws,” all screws have a head. It’s the top part of a screw that contains a recess for a tool bit. Screws are installed by placing a tool bit into the head’s recess and turning … Read More

What Are the Different Types of Drive Recesses?

Screws and bolts are designed with a recess so that they can be driven into and out of workpieces. Found on the head, it consists of an indention in a specific shape. There are many different types of drive recesses … Read More

An Introduction to the Parts of a Bolt

Along with screws, bolts are one of the most common types of fasteners. They are used specifically to create a bolted joint. A bolt can be driven into two or more workpieces — or components — to hold them together. … Read More