Explore our comprehensive fastener terminology glossary on this page, featuring terms and names that may be unfamiliar to you. The fastener industry is intricate, encompassing a diverse array of fixings, technical descriptions, and finishes, resulting in terminology that might not be universally known. This glossary serves as a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of these terms, potentially guiding you toward products that play a crucial role in various applications. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned professional, we hope this glossary enhances your knowledge of fasteners and aids you in discovering essential components for your needs.
A
Allen Wrench
Commonly referred to as a hex key or an allen key, this tool is used to drive bolts and screws that have a hexagonally shaped socket.
Allthread
Allthread is one of the numerous names for threaded rod. It is not a different product, just a different way of referring to the likes of ‘threaded rod’ or ‘threaded bar’. They can be found in building, plumbing and general maintenance applications.
All-metal
All-metal often refers to locknuts which have no plastic inserts. These nuts are effective under harsh temperatures and extreme corrosive elements.
Aluminium
Aluminium is an aesthetically pleasing material that is often picked for fasteners or fixings that are required to be both useful – via high corrosion resistance and a lack of ferrousness – and aesthetically sharp.
B
Black Japanned
A black lacquer which is applied to steel and then baked to provide a smooth, glossy finish.
Bolt
Bolts are externally threaded fasteners designed for insertion through holes. They are normally intended to be tightened or released by torquing a nut.
Brass
Brass is an alloy, made using copper and zinc.
Button Head
Button head is a head style for a screw or bolt that generally holds a cylindrical head and a hexagonal drive. Most commonly, they require an allen key or a hex key to be installed or removed.