Fasteners
Fasteners are hardware components used to secure two materials together. Nails, studs, screws, and bolts are all commonly used across various markets. These components are ideal in applications where a non-permanent, but secure joint is required. As most fasteners are utilized in applications with high stress loads, they are at risk for degradation; accordingly, this hardware is generally designed to be easily installed and replaced. Fasteners are categorized based on specific features: proof load, threaded or unthreaded, tensile strength, head type, length, materials, and standards specified by the applicable industry or governing bodies all determine fastener type and application.
Materials
Materials are the main factor in determining the proper fastener to utilize. Stainless steel, carbon steel, alloy steel, Inconel stainless steel, titanium, plastic polymers, and aluminum are all commonly used materials in fastener construction. Platings or coatings can be applied to specified fasteners in order to reduce corrosion and increase wear-time. Alloys are the predominant material used for plating; alloys for fastener plating are often made of cadmium, nickel, silver, zinc, phosphate, and/or chromium.
Standards and Traceability
Fasteners are used across many industries from industrial manufacturing to commercial aircraft; as such, there are many types of fasteners that vary in quality and appropriate application. Fasteners used in aerospace, maritime, and automotive industries generally require higher standards and specifications due to the conditions they are exposed to.
Among a multitude of other standards, the American National (Unified) Thread, Metric Thread, Coarse Series (UNC), Fine Series (UNF), and Extra Fine Series (UNEF) are among the most prevalently used standards. Fasteners might also be subject to military standards (MS) set by the US Military identify requirements for traceability and compliance which set criteria for military and defense applications. In addition, fasteners may also be set to standards specified by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, who maintains standards that clarify types, dimensions, and materials.
At ASAP Aviation Hub , owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor LLC, we provide high quality fasteners from top manufacturers in the industry. Our product portfolio includes components from PCC Fasteners, Monogram, Fairchild, Eaton, 3V Fasteners LISI Aerospace, Bell Helicopter, and more.
