Fasteners Manufacturers and Suppliers

Fasteners

The word "fasteners" refers to an extensive range of screws, bolts, nuts, and other devices designed to join and secure materials. With over 500,000 different types available, fasteners play a critical role across industrial, commercial, and consumer applications, ensuring structural integrity and reliability in countless products and assemblies.

The History of Fasteners

Fasteners have been an essential part of human civilization for thousands of years. Because they serve such a fundamental purpose, pinpointing the exact time and place where the first fastener was used is nearly impossible. However, historical evidence suggests that one of the most well-known types, the screw, was likely developed by the Egyptians and later adopted by the ancient Greeks.

Around 400 BC, Archytas of Tarentum introduced screw threads to the Western world, laying the foundation for their use in mechanical applications. A few centuries later, in approximately 234 BC, the renowned Greek mathematician Archimedes formulated the screw principle. He applied this concept to the development of wooden water screws, revolutionizing irrigation systems for agriculture and aiding in the removal of bilge water from ships. Early examples of screws have also been discovered in presses designed to extract olive oil and grape juice, demonstrating their utility in everyday life.

The screw received its first recorded mention in Mechanica, a work by Heron of Alexandria, during the first century AD. Fast-forwarding to the 18th century, the evolution of screw technology took a significant leap when Antoine Thiout, around 1750, incorporated a screw drive into a lathe. This innovation enabled tool carriages to move longitudinally in a semi-automatic manner, drastically improving precision and efficiency in machining processes.

Despite the well-documented history of screws, the origins of nuts and bolts—the most widely used fasteners today—remain uncertain. It is clear, however, that their development is closely linked to the invention of the screw thread, which made it possible to secure materials together with greater stability and ease.

The most significant advancements in modern bolt and screw manufacturing have taken place over the last 150 years. Since the Industrial Revolution, nuts and bolts have become indispensable components in engineering and construction. The establishment of the U.S. Standard Thread system in the early 1870s set the stage for uniformity in fastener production. This was later followed by the adoption of standards from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), further refining screw thread designs. A major breakthrough arrived in the late 1960s with the introduction of the self-drilling screw, developed specifically for the metal building industry. Featuring a "pinched point" or cold-forged self-drill tip, this innovation significantly reduced installation time and cost, making it an industry favorite.

Over the past two decades, fastener technology has advanced at an unprecedented rate. As industries began utilizing nickel-based alloys, fasteners gained the ability to withstand extreme temperatures, proving invaluable for applications such as turbochargers and high-performance engines where traditional steel fasteners faltered. Meanwhile, research and development efforts have led to the creation of lightweight metal bolts using aluminum, magnesium, and titanium. From their humble origins in ancient Greece to their modern-day applications in aerospace, automotive, and industrial sectors, fasteners have played a pivotal role in both technological advancements and human progress.

Design of Fasteners

Production Process

The manufacturing of fasteners varies depending on the material used. Plastic fasteners are typically produced through an injection molding process, allowing for high-volume, cost-effective production. Metal fasteners, on the other hand, are commonly fabricated through heating and casting, ensuring durability and strength. To create threaded fasteners, manufacturers employ a specialized process known as thread rolling. During this process, a hard metal die featuring a threaded profile is pressed against a rotating workpiece. As pressure increases, the thread profile is transferred onto the fastener through cold working, ensuring precision and structural integrity.

Material Design

Fasteners are commonly manufactured using high-strength sheet metals such as stainless steel, titanium, and alloy steel. Titanium has become the material of choice for aerospace fasteners due to its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. Meanwhile, stainless steel remains the preferred option for automotive applications, offering durability and resistance to environmental factors. For lighter-duty applications, such as children's toys and consumer electronics, manufacturers often use materials like plastics, brass, or bronze.

Design Considerations

Fastener manufacturers have an extensive range of design options, accommodating both standard and custom specifications. Fasteners are available in virtually any shape or size, with or without threading, to meet the unique requirements of various industries. Another key consideration in fastener design is the choice of measurement system. In the United States, fasteners typically adhere to the American system of measurement, whereas metric fasteners are more prevalent in international markets.

Beyond these fundamental factors, engineers and manufacturers must account for a range of performance variables to ensure fasteners function as intended. The weight of the materials being joined plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate fastener strength and size. Head type selection affects how a fastener will sit against a surface and dictates the required fastener length. Environmental conditions, such as exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture, ultraviolet radiation, and chemicals, must also be considered to ensure long-term durability.

Additional application-specific requirements further refine the selection process. For instance, certain fasteners must be designed to be tamper-proof to prevent unauthorized removal or interference. Others may need to incorporate specialized design elements to accommodate unique structural demands. By carefully evaluating these factors, manufacturers can produce fasteners that deliver optimal performance across diverse industries and applications.

Types of Fasteners

By and large, fasteners can be divided into groups of threaded and non-threaded fasteners.

Threaded Fasteners

Threaded fasteners feature spiral ridges, known as threads, that aid in their attachment and provide a secure hold. This category includes a variety of fasteners such as nuts, bolts, screws, continuous-thread studs, tap-end studs, double-end studs, riveting fasteners, and clinching fasteners.

Nut

Nuts are essential fastening components that work in tandem with bolts to create a secure mechanical joint. These metal blocks feature internal threading, allowing them to grip the upper shaft of a bolt and hold the connected workpieces together.

Bolt

Bolts, or bolt studs, are externally threaded fasteners characterized by a partially threaded shaft designed to penetrate a material. They are secured in place using a corresponding nut, creating a reliable fastening mechanism.

Screw

Screws are externally threaded fasteners with a spiral-shaped shaft and a head. When driven into a workpiece, the threads engage with the material, securing the screw in place. The head ensures that the fastener remains firmly embedded within the object.

Continuous-Thread Stud

Continuous-thread studs are threaded from end to end, providing a strong and uniform fastening solution. They are commonly used for flange bolting, often requiring two nuts to secure the connection.

Tap-End Stud

Tap-end studs feature a short threaded section on one end and a longer threaded section on the other. The shorter end is designed for screwing into tapped holes, while the longer "nut-end" may be chamfered or rounded to accommodate securing hardware.

Double-End Stud Fastener

Double-end studs have threads of equal length on both ends and feature chamfered points. These fasteners are frequently used in applications where tightening from both ends is necessary, such as flange bolting and heavy-duty machinery.

Clinching Fastener

Also referred to as self-clinching fasteners, clinch fasteners, or captive fasteners, these specialized fasteners are designed to be pressed into a ductile metal workpiece. Upon installation, the surrounding material cold-flows into an annular recess in the fastener shank or pilot, creating a permanent and highly secure attachment.

Non-Threaded Fasteners

Non-threaded fasteners do not rely on threading for secure attachment. Instead, they are designed for quick assembly and removal without requiring additional fastening hardware. This category includes rivet fasteners, pin fasteners, blind fastener rivets, dowel pins, retaining rings, and snap fasteners.

Rivet Fastener

A rivet fastener is a permanent mechanical fastener that consists of a smooth cylindrical shaft with a head on one end. When inserted into a punched or drilled hole, the opposite end, known as the tail, deforms and expands approximately one and a half times its original size, securing the rivet in place. Rivets are commonly used with pins to reinforce hinges and pulleys, ensuring a secure connection between parts.

Pin Fastener

Pin fasteners are typically cylindrical steel pins used to secure or align machine components. They are instrumental in maintaining the proper orientation and positioning of parts within mechanical systems.

Blind Fastener

Also known as a blind rivet nut or pop fastener rivet, a blind fastener is a tubular fastener designed for applications where access is limited to one side of the joint. While not suitable for critical structural applications, they are widely used for securing lightweight materials. Installation involves inserting the fastener into a pre-drilled hole and using a rivet gun to pull the headed shaft through, creating a bulging effect that locks the fastener in place.

Dowel Pin

Dowel pins are small, solid cylindrical rods used for a variety of applications, including axles in toys, shelf supports, and structural reinforcements. These pins provide precise alignment and ensure parts remain in fixed relation to one another. Depending on the application, dowel pins may be straight, tapered, rolled, or grooved.

Retaining Ring

Retaining rings are designed to hold components onto shafts or within housings/bores. These rings require a groove for installation and are typically stamped both internally and externally. While some retaining rings feature a self-locking mechanism, all serve to prevent parts from shifting or separating.

Snap Fastener

Snap fasteners, also known as press studs, poppers, or snaps, are used as an alternative to buttons in securing materials such as clothing and accessories. These fasteners consist of two interlocking plastic or metal discs that snap together under pressure.

Self-Tapping Screw

A self-tapping screw features a specialized design that enables it to create its own hole as it is driven into a material. These screws are commonly used in medical, dental, and do-it-yourself (DIY) applications, providing a convenient and efficient fastening solution.

Cap Screw

A cap screw is a machine part fastener distinguished by a fully threaded shaft. Unlike bolts, cap screws are secured using threads tapped directly into the hole in which they are installed, eliminating the need for a separate nut.

Decking Screw

Decking screws are specially designed fasteners used primarily in the construction of outdoor decks and other wooden structures. These screws offer enhanced holding power and corrosion resistance, making them ideal for exterior applications.

Aerospace Fasteners

Aerospace fasteners are industrial-grade fasteners specifically engineered for aircraft assembly. These fasteners undergo stringent quality control processes to ensure they meet the high-performance and safety requirements of the aerospace industry. Aerospace fasteners may be threaded or non-threaded, depending on their intended function.

Stainless Steel Fastener

Stainless steel fasteners are highly sought after in industries such as automotive, electrical and electronics, medical, marine, construction, and aerospace due to their strength, heat resistance, and corrosion resistance. These fasteners provide long-lasting performance, even in extreme environments, making them a preferred choice for demanding applications.

Fastener Applications

Fasteners are an essential component of nearly every piece of equipment and structure in our daily lives. Whether securing the intricate framework of an aircraft, holding together kitchen appliances, or reinforcing the foundations of buildings, fasteners operate behind the scenes, ensuring stability and functionality. Their presence is so widespread that they are often overlooked, yet they play a crucial role in countless industries.

Industries that depend on fasteners span a vast range, including automotive manufacturing, aerospace, furniture production, household appliances, building and construction, security, military and defense, electronics, and HVAC systems. In each of these fields, fasteners contribute to structural integrity, operational reliability, and long-term durability. From the assembly of high-performance vehicles to the precise engineering of advanced defense systems, the role of fasteners remains indispensable.

Fastener Installation

The installation of fasteners varies depending on the type of fastener and its intended application. Basic hand tools, such as hammers, screwdrivers, and wrenches, are frequently used for manual installation. However, for higher efficiency and precision, power tools like drills and impact drivers are commonly employed, especially in industrial and construction settings. The choice of tool depends on factors such as the material being fastened, the required level of torque, and the fastener’s specific design. In many cases, automated fastening systems are integrated into production lines to ensure uniformity, speed, and accuracy in large-scale manufacturing processes.

Standards and Specifications for Fasteners

Ensuring that fasteners meet industry standards and regulatory requirements is critical for safety, durability, and performance. Using substandard or non-compliant fasteners can lead to structural weaknesses, mechanical failures, and potential hazards, making adherence to standardized specifications essential.

The United States government has established regulations to classify fasteners based on characteristics such as thread quality (coarse thread vs. fine thread), fastener length, tensile strength, and material composition. These guidelines help distinguish between different types of fasteners, including bolts, screws, and specialty fasteners.

Among the leading organizations responsible for setting industry-wide fastener standards is SAE International, a globally recognized standards association based in the U.S. SAE assigns specific grades to fasteners, categorizing them according to their mechanical properties, strength, and intended application.

Additionally, international standardization bodies such as ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) provide globally recognized fastener grade designations, ensuring consistency in manufacturing and quality assurance. Fasteners that carry ISO or ASTM certification offer assurance that they meet rigorous quality and safety standards, making them suitable for critical applications in aerospace, automotive engineering, industrial machinery, and construction.

Things to Consider When Purchasing Fasteners

Choosing the right fastener for your product is a challenge. Follow the tips below to have an easier time making decisions.

Fastener Material

Determining the appropriate material is essential, as it directly affects the fastener’s strength, longevity, and performance. Consider the conditions the fastener will be exposed to and the demands of the application. If the fastener is securing an enclosure with vibrating components, opt for a high-strength metal that can withstand repeated motion and resist loosening. For applications that do not involve frequent movement or exposure to harsh conditions, a lighter or less expensive material, such as plastic, may be sufficient. The choice of material should align with the product’s end use, ensuring optimal functionality without unnecessary costs.

Fastener Intended Use

Before selecting a fastener, it is crucial to analyze the specific needs of your product design. The intended use will determine the size, shape, material, and thread type of the fastener. Failing to account for these factors can lead to performance issues, affecting the integrity of the final product.

Thread compatibility is another essential consideration. If your design requires a multiple-thread fastener, using a single-threaded alternative will not suffice. Additionally, selecting a metal fastener that is unnecessarily heavy for your application adds extra cost and weight without any functional advantage. Similarly, requesting overly strict tolerances that are not required for your product’s performance can result in unnecessary manufacturing complexity and higher costs. Ensuring that every aspect of the fastener matches your application needs will lead to a more reliable and efficient design.

Choose Finish According to Function

Selecting the right finish for your fastener is just as important as choosing the material. The finish hardness must correspond to the application’s requirements, ensuring that the fastener can withstand operational stresses without premature wear. It is essential to match the metal grade and gauge thickness of the fastener to the materials it will be securing.

 

When placing an order, clearly communicate your fastener’s function and operating conditions to your supplier. This will help them recommend the most suitable finish and material combination. Understanding the limitations of different fastener finishes can prevent premature failure and ensure that the selected coating or plating enhances the fastener’s durability, corrosion resistance, and performance in its intended environment.

Cost Cutting and Savings

While cost efficiency is a priority for any manufacturer, reducing expenses by compromising on fastener quality is a risky decision. Fasteners play a foundational role in structural integrity, and cutting corners on material quality, manufacturing precision, or finish durability can lead to product failure, costly recalls, and long-term damage to your reputation.

 

Although opting for lower-quality fasteners may yield short-term savings, the long-term consequences can be severe. A single failed fastener can compromise an entire assembly, leading to operational failures, safety risks, and dissatisfied customers. Investing in high-quality, properly specified fasteners ensures reliability, minimizes downtime, and protects your brand’s reputation.

Choose the Right Manufacturer

Finding the right manufacturer is one of the most critical steps in the fastener selection process. The ideal manufacturer is not solely focused on their bottom line but is dedicated to delivering high-quality fasteners that meet your specifications, budget, and deadlines. A reliable supplier will prioritize consistency, precision, and customer service, ensuring that your fasteners align with your application’s needs.

 

A trustworthy manufacturer will work closely with you to identify the best materials, finishes, and specifications for your project, rather than simply pushing generic or suboptimal products. They will also provide timely delivery, competitive pricing, and ongoing support to ensure that your fastener supply remains consistent and reliable.

 

To start your search for a reputable supplier, refer to the list of trusted manufacturers at the top of this page. Partnering with a quality-conscious supplier will help you secure fasteners that enhance your product’s durability, efficiency, and overall success.

Proper Care for Fasteners

Fasteners are susceptible to damage over time, with rust, corrosion, and wear being the most common causes of deterioration. Metal fasteners, in particular, require protective measures to extend their lifespan and maintain their performance. Applying lubricants or requesting a protective coating from your manufacturer can help safeguard fasteners against environmental damage. Additionally, minimizing their exposure to moisture and harsh chemicals will significantly reduce the risk of corrosion.

Plastic fasteners,  while not prone to rust, are vulnerable to impact damage, heat exposure, and material fatigue. Ensuring that plastic fasteners are used only within their designated temperature and load-bearing limits will help prevent premature failure. Regardless of the material, fasteners should always be used within their intended application and installed in environments suited to their properties, ensuring long-term durability and reliability.

Accessories for Fasteners

Accessories that you may need for your application include: washers, spacers, screw protectors, plugs and sticky circles and squares.

Fastener Terms

Bearing Surface

The portion of a fastener that provides support and transmits the load when the fastener is installed.

Blind Fastener

A type of fastener designed for applications where access is available from only one side of the joint.

Automotive Fastener

Critical components in vehicle assembly that contribute to safety and performance. These fasteners must withstand extreme conditions, including vibration, temperature fluctuations, and mechanical stress.

Blind Side

The portion of a blind fastener that remains inaccessible after installation.

Body

For blind fasteners, the section of the rivet that expands to secure the material. In threaded fasteners, the unthreaded portion located beneath the head.

Button Head

A rounded, low-profile head with a broad, flat bearing surface, commonly found on threaded fasteners.

Clench

The capability of a fastener to securely hold multiple materials together after installation.

Complete Hole Fill

A characteristic of certain fasteners that enables them to fill irregular, oversized, slotted, or misaligned holes for a secure fit.

Concentricity

The precise alignment of two fastener surfaces sharing the same central axis.

Countersunk Head

A fastener head designed to sit flush with the surface of the material once installed.

Creep

A permanent deformation that occurs in a fastener due to prolonged exposure to stress and elevated temperatures.

Eccentricity

The measure of deviation between the centers of a fastener’s surface at different points.

Fatigue Strength

The resistance of a fastener to fracture or failure when subjected to cyclic stress over time.

Fillister Head

A fastener head featuring a rounded top, straight cylindrical sides, and a flat bearing surface.

Grip

The total thickness of the materials that a fastener is designed to secure when fully installed.

Joint

The assembly of materials held together by a fastener.

Lead Thread

The distance from the start of a thread to the point where it reaches its full depth and width.

Major Diameter

The maximum diameter of a screw thread, measured from the outer edges of the threads.

Minor Diameter

The smallest diameter of a screw thread, measured from the root of the threads.

Pitch

The axial distance between corresponding points on adjacent threads of a fastener.

Shank

The section of a fastener’s body that lies between the head and the threaded portion.

Spacers

Protective components placed between fasteners and fragile materials to prevent damage at contact points.

Thread Cutting

A machining process that forms threads by cutting into a metal blank rather than deforming it.

Thread Rolling

A cold-forming process that shapes threads by plastically deforming a metal blank under pressure. This method enhances thread strength and wear resistance compared to cut threads.