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Reference · Threads & Fasteners

Metric. Imperial.
Bolts. Screws.
Threading basics.

Threading and fastener reference. Metric vs imperial threads, bolt vs screw, fastener selection. Engineering basics for assembly.

01 · Key principles

Key principles.

Metric threads

M3-M50

Metric coarse and fine. ISO 261 standard.

Imperial threads

UNC, UNF

UNC coarse, UNF fine. ANSI B1.1 standard.

Bolt vs screw

Use definition

Bolt: tightened with nut. Screw: threads in mating part.

Class 2 vs 3

2 standard

Class 2 most common. Class 3 precision.

Strength grades

5.8 mid, 12.9 high

Metric grades. SAE J429 grades 1-8 imperial.

Plating

Corrosion

Zinc, nickel, hot-dip galvanized for corrosion resistance.

FAQ

Metric vs imperial?

Metric standard worldwide. Imperial in US automotive, industrial. Each has standards.

M3-M16 most common?

M3 (3mm), M4 (4mm), M5 (5mm), M6 (6mm), M8 (8mm), M10 (10mm). Default sizes.

Strength selection?

Grade 5.8 (low strength), 8.8 (mid), 10.9 (high), 12.9 (highest). Per load.

Anti-rotation features?

Thread lockers (Loctite), nylon-locked nuts, helicoils. Per service requirement.

Thread engagement length?

1.5-2× diameter for full thread strength. 1× minimum.

Standard vs custom?

Standard cheap, available. Custom: longer lead time, premium cost. Use standard when possible.

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