Common types of Nut Fasteners
Within the realm of fasteners, nuts are a hardware component that feature a threaded hole. Most often paired with mating bolts, nuts may be used to secure multiple parts together through the means of thread friction, bolt stretching, and part compression. Coming in a variety of forms, different nuts may be procured to accommodate a range of assemblies and needs. To help you familiarize yourself with common options, we will provide a brief overview of the most widely used variations.
Acorn Nut
The acorn nut, often referred to as a cap nut, is a common variation that is discernible by its domed head. While a majority of nuts feature a hollow, “donut” center, acorn nuts have an enclosed top. As a result, they can only be tightened onto the end of a bolt until the dome-shaped head is reached.
Square Nut
Square nuts are similar to many standard nuts outside of their shape, featuring a square shape that allows for greater contact with larger surface areas. While the conventional hexagon shape enables better torque for installation and removal, the square shape found on square nuts ensures that such fasteners are less likely to become loosened due to vibration.
Weld Nut
The weld nut is one of the more unique variations, exhibiting a threaded hole that is specifically designed for use in welding applications. For installation, a weld nut will be tightened onto the bolt after it is passed through components, and then welding is used to secure the nut in place.
Knurled Nut
A knurled nut, or thumb nut, is a type that exhibits a knurled exterior. Rather than having smooth edges, such variations feature vertical ridges across their edges to facilitate installation and removal by hand.
Barrel Nut
Barrel nuts, also known as dowel nuts, feature the shape of a barrel. Due to their design, a barrel nut can be implemented in an assembly without the need for being machined or welded. Typically, barrel nuts find use in household furniture, aerospace components, and more.
Cage Nut
Cage nuts, also known as captive or clip nuts, are fasteners placed within a spring steel cage. With two wings placed on opposite sides of the component, the cage may be compressed so that the nut can be inserted into square holes or equipment rack mounting rails. Once released, the wings will hold the nut in position for an easy, toolless installation.
Flange Nut
Flange nuts feature a wide flange on one side, that of which acts as a washer. With the flange, such nuts can better distribute loads while preventing loosening as a result of uneven surfaces. In some instances, the flange may be serrated so that locking action is achieved. Generally, a flange nut may be constructed from hardened steel with zinc coatings.
Insert Nut
If one is working with a wooden piece or material that lacks threading, the insert nut may be a very beneficial component. Insert nuts can be screwed or hammered into a pre-drilled material, allowing for threading to be established. With their external protrusions, materials will be pulled together in order to prevent loosening or pull-out.
T-Nut
A T-nut, or tee nut, is a specialized hardware piece that may be fastened into wood, composites, or other materials to create a flush surface. With a long and thin body and a flange on one side, the nut may be installed on one side of a part while the bolt is screwed in from the other.
Whether you need a barrel nut, insert nut, acorn nut, or other nut type for a given application, there is no better alternative to Internet for Aviation. As a leading supplier of nuts and fasteners, we can help you secure everything that you need for your next project with unmatched pricing and rapid lead-times. As the only independent distributor with a NO CHINA SOURCING pledge, we ensure that all items come from leading global manufacturers that we trust. As a result of our steadfast dedication to such quality control initiatives, alongside our other practices, we proudly conduct operations with AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B certification and accreditation. If you would like to receive a personalized quote for your comparisons, fill out and submit an RFQ form through our website and a dedicated account manager will reach out to you in just 15 minutes or less.
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