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Did you know that some bolts have the capacity to hold weights of thousands of kilograms of force? Most people don't realise the extensive role that bolts play in creating most of the structures we see around us.
There's no doubt that bolts are an integral part of modern-day construction projects. So, you can never have too many on hand.
Knowing the different types of bolts based on their head types can help you find the perfect bolt to extend the life of your structural steelwork. Read on to learn more about how you can use bolts to modernise your next construction project.
A cup head bolt is a common bolt used in timber construction. Most DIY construction enthusiasts or builders will use cup head bolts to secure multiple pieces of timber in one place. Examples of this can include chain-link fences, furniture, and wooden decks.
Cup head bolts might come into play anywhere where it is difficult to access the bolt head for tightening or fastening. These are also called carriage bolts and usually feature a domed head with a square neck. It is possible to see wood-to-metal applications, however, wood-to-wood options are more common.
A socket head cap screw can be very effective as a unique type of fastener. You'll be more likely to see this type of screw or bolt used in machine or automotive parts. It's also possible for manufacturers to use these for clamps and fixtures, however, the applications are fairly diverse.Anywhere that you have a job where you'll be unable to fully turn a wrench or socket through a full rotation, a socket head bolt might be used. They come in a variety of grades and can be used in many different types of projects. You'll also want to use a socket screw for setting up initial assembly lines at factories, as in the automotive industry.
The most common bolt is a hex bolt. You have probably come across hex bolts for fastening wood or steel projects at home. It's also possible to use them for larger construction projects like public works and buildings.
Design engineers will often use hex bolts while designing docks, bridges, and highways. If the hex bolt has a forged head, it can also be known as a headed anchor bolt. The structure of this bolt allows for exceptional torque and tightening deep into the material.
You will often see button head cap screws used in socket-driven screws. It's more common to see a button head fastener that employs Torx® technology or six-lobe drives. Usually, button head screws will have a smaller diameter and will be larger on the head compared to other types of screws that use a deeper slot material like a round or pan head.
They still provide a similar shape despite the lower profile. The button head cap screw or bolt is usually better for a low clearance situation where you are trying to avoid the bolt taking up bulky space on the design.
Flathead screws and bolts are also a popular bolt design. Usually, builders will use them in similar situations to a button head bolt when there is not enough clearance to use a basic fastener. Otherwise, the fastener would protrude outward from the surface of the material and affect the design and/or structural integrity.
Many designers will also use a flat socket bolt for the appearance alone. It provides a unique and clean appearance that looks visually stunning especially when metal is being contrasted with wood.
There are several factors to consider when trying to determine the right bolt for the job. The first thing you want to think about is the appearance.
Ultimately, you don't want to put in any screw that won't match the exterior design you are going for. This is because there are usually multiple bolts for the job, so choose the one that has the right visual appearance.
Then you want to be able to identify how much load you're trying to support, and the necessary clamping force needed in the joint. After which, you may want to find the smallest bolt diameter that will be able to support that load. Finally, decide on the most appropriate tightening method using the bolts that have greater applications of torque.
If you want to take the quality up a notch, reaching out to online suppliers is the best.
Many of these companies will be able to work with you directly for a custom project. At Konnect Fastening Systems, we provide premium products in the bolts and screws category for any builder. Feel free to contact us or look at our catalog to see which of our options might be right for you.
At the end of the day, finding bolts for your project doesn't have to be a major headache. There are a wide variety of options available to you depending on the visual appearance you are going for as well as the structural building requirements. Make sure you contact a professional to ensure that your bolts will be able to do the job you are intending them to do.If you enjoyed this article about fasteners, please check out the other articles on our blog!
