Bolts are an essential part of many of the everyday products we use. Unlike screws, bolts can be used in a wide variety of materials and can handle heavy loads. However, there are some things to keep in mind when selecting the right bolt for a particular project.
Whether working with steel, aluminum, zinc or another material, bolts are available in a range of sizes and finishes. They can be designed to withstand specific temperatures, and some even feature anti-corrosion properties. Bolts can also be made with different thread types and styles, including metric, fine or coarse pitch.
While the choice of bolt materials will depend on an application’s requirements, steel is a popular choice for bolts because it provides strong mechanical properties that are typically greater than the capacities of the assembled pieces. Bolts are also able to be removed and reused using the same tools they were originally built with, making them an ideal solution for maintenance or quick inspections. Moreover, bolted joints are not permanent assemblies, allowing for effective separation, sorting and recycling of the parts at the end of their life cycle.
The factors to consider when choosing a bolt include the environment where it will be used, how much load it must support and any special requirements such as anti-tamper or security features. The bolt material will also need to be considered, with options including plastic and brass (which conduct electricity) as well as specialized alloys that can function in extreme temperatures and marine applications. Other considerations include the bolt size and style and the finish, with options such as bright zinc plating that prevents corrosion or chrome that adds an aesthetic touch. bolts