5 Fast Facts About Hex Keys

Not all fasteners require the use of a traditional Phillips head screwdriver. Some require other tools to tighten or loosen the fastener. Hex screws, for example, are characterized by a unique hexagonal shape that requires the use of a hex … Read More

What Is a Belleville Washer?

Also known as a disc spring or cupped spring washer, a Belleville washer is a unique washer-style fastener that’s characterized by a cupped construction. As shown in the image here, Belleville washers don’t lie flat. Rather, they feature a canonical … Read More

What Is an Anchor Bolt?

An anchor bolt is a used type of fastener that’s designed to connect one or more objects to a concrete surface. With concrete being brittle, you can use conventional bolts for applications such as this. To ensure the connected object … Read More

Sheet Metal Nuts: A Complete Guide to This Unique Fastener

Sheet metal nuts are fasteners that are designed to resist vibrations. Like other locknuts, they don’t loosen or otherwise come undone when exposed to vibrations. Rather, they remain secure, connecting the objects on which they are installed. What Is a … Read More

What Is a Threaded Insert?

Threaded fasteners are often used in conjunction with a threaded insert to join two or more objects. Also known as threaded bushings, they provided female threaded to support the use of a fastener with male threading, such as a screw … Read More

How Threading is Created on Fasteners

Fasteners offer a simple and effective way to temporarily join two more objects. But regardless of how they are used, many fasteners rely on threading to perform their intended function. Threading allows male fasteners and female fasteners to connect to … Read More

Lag Screws: An Overview of This Strong Fastener

A screw is a self-drilling fastener that’s characterized by a threaded exterior. When driven into a surface, the screw’s threaded exterior digs and removes material, allowing for easy insertion into the respective object. For woodworking applications, though, certain types of … Read More