The 3 Primary Types of Threaded Fasteners

Fasteners are the mechanical components used to temporarily join two or more objects. While there are other ways to join objects — welding, brazing, adhesives, crimping, etc. — fasteners are often preferred because they can be easily removed. Threaded fasteners … Read More

Who Invented The Rivet? A “Riveting” Bit Of Aviation History.

The Rivet is as critical to airplane construction as the lightweight aluminum from which they are made. It did not take long for engineers to determine that the dome head rivet was causing a lot of drag, leading to the … Read More

How Does a Spring Pin Work?

Also known as a roll pin, a spring pin is a type of fastener that’s used to join two or more machine components. They are called “spring pins” because they contain a spring that expands upon insertion. What’s perplexing about … Read More

What Are the Pros and Cons of Using Ball Screws?

Originally known as an antifriction nut, a ball screw is a mechanical device that’s used to convert rotational motion into linear motion. They feature a long threaded shaft with ball bearings to withstand significant stress and weight, all while minimizing … Read More

6 Common Types of Rivets Used in the Manufacturing Industry

A rivet is a type of fastener that’s used in the permanent assembly of a product or workpiece. Featuring a bolt-like design, they are affixed with a head that’s wider than the shaft. When a rivet is driven into a … Read More

Exploring the 3 Processes of Metal Fabrication

Metal fabrication is an important industry in the United States that employs an estimated 1.42 million American workers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). It involves cutting, manipulating and assembling metal materials to produce metal structures. Among other … Read More

How Steel Manufacturing Boosted the US Economy

From cutlery and outdoor furniture to building frames, bolts, screws, bridges and more, steel is a versatile material that’s used in a wide variety of applications. Classified as an alloy featuring iron and carbon — as well as other elements, … Read More