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Types Of Bolts
Introduction
This article takes an in-depth
look at types of bolts.

Read further and learn more

about topics such as:

Components of Bolts and

Bolted Joints
Fastener Terminologies
Related to Bolts
Types of Bolts
And much more…

Chapter 1: Components of Bolts

and Bolted Joints
Bolts are tools used to fasten and secure the faces of assemblies.
They are threaded and come with a matching nut. Their purpose is
to connect aligned unthreaded holes by being placed through the
aligned holes and secured with the bolt’s nut.
Bolt Shaft
The shaft is a cylindrical member that bears the shear forces
acting on the bolt and prevents the radial movement of the parts.
The bolt shaft has two portions:

The shank (or body) is the unthreaded portion of a bolt located

under the head. Its length is measured from the head to the
start of the transition to the threads. When installed in a bolt
hole, the shank offers precise and smooth contact. Stress is
more distributed in this portion than in the threaded portion.
Hence, it is necessary to extend the shank until it exceeds the
interface of the fastened materials.

The fastened parts may produce or be exposed to vibration, which

increases the chance of the bolt loosening. If a bolt has no shank
(i.e., the bolt shaft entirely consists of threading), the vibration
may push back out of the fastened parts.

The thread is the continuous helical ridge made on the outside

of the bolt shaft. This portion accommodates the nut and
allows the bolt to be pushed in or out of the parts. The bolt
thread mates with the internal threads of the nut to create a
bolted joint. All bolts must have a threaded portion, but most
bolts have partially threaded shafts.
Bolt Head
The bolt head is responsible for bearing the axial forces that hold
the fastened materials. A wrench or a driver grips and applies
sufficient torque on the bolt head to tighten or loosen the bolt. Bolt
heads come in a variety of profiles and types; some of them are:

Hex bolt heads have a six-sided, hexagonal head that can be

easily gripped by various tools (e.g., wrenches).

Countersunk bolt heads have a conical profile with a flat top.

They commonly have a recessed slot to allow screwdrivers or
hex socket tools to apply torque and drive the bolt axially.
 Dome bolt heads have a smooth and rounded profile. However,
they are difficult to wrench externally.

Bolts are typically used with the following mechanical devices:

Nuts as Bolt Components

The nut is the female member of a bolted joint that contains a
threaded hole. It provides clamping force and prevents axial
movement in order to hold multiple parts together. A combination
of two forces secures the parts. The nut exerts the axial force,
which compresses the fastened parts. This axial force results in a
frictional force between the bolt and nut threads, preventing the
bolt and nut from being unscrewed. Mechanical locking devices
(e.g., lock washers, jam nuts, and split pins) and thread-locking
fluids are used if the parts are exposed to prolonged and
continuous vibration and impact.
Washers as Bolt Components
A washer is a flat, thin plate with a concentric hole at its center. It
is typically placed under the bolt head and the nut. Its primary
function is to distribute the load of the threaded fastener over a
larger area. Thus, the deformation of fastened materials is
prevented. Washers made with softer materials such as plastic,
rubber, and urethane can effectively dampen vibration, thus
preventing the threads from loosening. Special types of washers
can prevent liquids from penetrating the bolt joint, creating a
waterproof seal.

Chapter 2: Fastener
Terminologies Related to Bolts
The following are the fastener terminologies used when talking
about bolts:
Shank Diameter
The shank diameter is the diameter of the smooth or unthreaded
portion of the bolt shaft. It is often referred to as the nominal
diameter or body diameter.

Major Diameter
The major diameter is the largest diameter of the bolt thread. It is
the distance between two opposite crests or the topmost surface
of the thread. The major diameter is often equal to the nominal
diameter.

Minor Diameter
The minor diameter (or root diameter) is the smallest distance of
the bolt thread. It is the distance between two opposite roots or
the bottommost surface of the thread.

Pitch Diameter
The pitch diameter is the diameter halfway between the major and
minor diameters.

Basic Dimensions of a Bolt Thread

Nominal Length
The nominal length is the total axial length of the bolt shaft, which
is equal to the sum of the grip and thread lengths. The grip length
is the length of the unthreaded portion, while the thread length is
the length of the threaded portion measured from the first
complete thread next to the shank to the end of the bolt shaft.

Thread Pitch
The thread pitch is the axial distance between two adjacent
crests. This specification is used in metric fasteners and is
normally expressed in millimeters.

Metric fasteners are manufactured in accordance with the ISO and

DIN standards. How do you read metric bolt sizing?

If you encounter a bolt with M10-1.0 x 2.0 sizing:

M designates that the bolt specifications are in the metric

system
10 is the nominal diameter in mm
1.0 is the thread pitch in mm. Since the thread pitch is
specified, this bolt has a fine thread.
20 is the bolt length in mm

You may also encounter a bolt specification like M12-50. The

thread pitch is not specified in this specification, which means the
bolt has a coarse thread. The nominal diameter in this example is
12 mm, while the bolt length is 50 mm.
Threads Per Inch (TPI)
The TPI is the number of threads per bolt thread inch. This
specification is only used in imperial or US fasteners. How do you
read imperial bolt sizing?

If you encounter a bolt with ¼”-20 x 2” sizing:

¼” means that the bolt is ¼ inch in diameter

20 means that the bolt has 20 TPI
2” means that the bolt is 2 inches long

Right-Handed and Left-Handed Threads

Right-handed threads are tightened when rotated in a clockwise
direction. It is the most common thread configuration. Meanwhile,
left-handed threads advance axially when turned in a
counterclockwise direction. These threads are used when the
application of pressure causes a right-handed thread to become
loose. Left-handed threads are used in bicycle pedals, vehicle
wheels, circular saw blades, and gas supply valves.
Chamfer and Chamfer Angle
A chamfer is a slightly beveled edge near the bolt tip. It is created
by cutting a portion of the first thread near the bolt tip. Some bolts
have a chamfered end in order to insert a nut and fit into holes
easily. The chamfer angle is measured from the normal to the bolt
axis.

Leading Bolts Manufacturers

and Suppliers
 Ken
Forging

Southern
Fasteners
& Supply,
LLC

Blue
Ribbon
Fastener
Co.

Eagle
Fastener
Corporation

Chapter 3: Types of Bolts

Below are different types of bolts.

Anchor Bolts
Anchor bolts are designed to join components into concrete
surfaces. They are commonly used in the construction industry.
They are usually found in the bases of steel poles. They are also
used in attaching façade systems to reinforced concrete walls.
There are two classifications of anchor bolts:

Cast-in-place anchor bolts are installed by drilling a hole in the

concrete slightly larger than the bolt, fixing the bolt in place,
 and pouring a concrete mixture into the remaining spaces in
the hole. Once the concrete settles, the bolt will not dislodge
easily.
Drilled-in-place anchor bolts are installed without the use of
wet concrete. They are installed directly into an ample-sized
hole drilled into hardened concrete. Adhesives are applied on
the bolt installation to stabilize the connection.

There are two common types of anchor bolts:

Headed anchor bolts have a bolt head on their non-threaded

end. The headed end is embedded in the concrete material.
The bolt head may have a hexagonal or square shape. Headed
anchor bolts are used in securing structural elements such as
poles, rails, and columns.
Bent anchor bolts have a bent portion on their shaft, preventing
the bolt from pulling out of the concrete material when force is
applied. The bent portion typically has an L- or J-profile
embedded in the concrete material. Bent anchor bolts are used
in fastening light poles and street signages.

Arbor Bolts
Arbor bolts are pre-assembled bolts with a washer permanently
attached to the head of the bolt. Their head has a sinker design
with ridges around it. Arbor bolts have a dark or black finish and
reverse threads that differentiate them from other bolts. The
reverse thread is the most important feature of arbor bolts and is
critical to their use.

Unlike other types of bolts, arbor bolts are not commonly sold in
home improvement stores or hardware stores. They have a single
function and are not considered to be fasteners. Arbor bolts are
used with electric saws to keep the blade of the saw secure and
working properly and are a critical part of a saws operation.

Blind Bolts
Blind bolts are a specialty bolt that was developed for applications
where hex bolts and rivets can’t be used due to restricted access.
They have good tensile strength and can handle loads that are
slightly less than standard bolts. Blind bolts are used to join
objects using a pre-drilled hole in one of the objects to be joined
and where there is limited space due to adjacent components.

The head of a blind bolt has a series of teeth that interlock with a
nut, which provides extra strength and stability when secured.
Blind bolts get their name due to their ability to access only one
side of objects to be joined and the inability to see the other side.
They have a pin, collar, and sleeve. The collar is designed to
collapse as the blind bolt is tightened.
Carriage Bolts
Carriage bolts are partially threaded along their shank and have a
round head with a square neck that keeps the bolt from turning
when being fastened. They are referred to as plow or coach bolts
and are mainly used in wood applications. Carriage bolts have
tensile and shear strength, which varies according to the type of
material from which they are manufactured. Carriage bolts made
of stainless steel have a shear strength of 90,000 psi.

A carriage bolt is secured using a nut with a washer that is

attached to the threads on the flat end of the bolt. When
determining the size of a carriage bolt, it is important to measure
them from under the head to the end of the bolt. Measuring from
under the square neck leads to inaccurate measurements. A pilot
hole of the diameter of the flat end of a carriage bolt has to be
drilled prior to inserting the bolt. It is important to use a washer
with a nut when securing a carriage bolt to reduce potential
surface damage.

Elevator Bolts
Elevator bolts get their name from their use in the construction of
elevators. Their flat head allows them to secure components
without interfering with the movement of the elevator. The distinct
feature of elevator bolts is their flat round thin head that becomes
flush with the surface to which they are attached when secured.

Threads on an elevator bolt go part way up the shaft. Underneath

the flat head is a square neck that is similar to that of carriage
bolt, which provides for a tight secure connection and prevents the
bolt from turning during installation. Elevator bolts are made from
several types of materials and come in different diameters,
lengths, and sizes.

A common use for elevator bolts is in the construction of

conveyors, which require a flat surface for smooth operation.
Additionally, since elevator bolts form a highly secure connection,
they prevent conveyors from vibrating or shifting. They are also an
ideal fastener for soft materials such as softwoods, fabrics, and
plastics.

Eye Bolts
The differentiating feature of eye bolts is their head, which is in the
form of a metal ring or circle. Eye bolts come with or without a
shoulder. The shoulder type of eye bolt is stronger and offers more
support than eye bolts without a shoulder. The threads of an eye
bolt run the full length of the bolt from its flat end up to its ring
shaped head. In the case of shoulder eye bolts, the threads stop
below the shoulder.
The types of eye bolts include:

Anchor Eye Bolts: Anchor eye bolts are used with masonry.
Screw Eyes: Screw eye bolts have a threaded wood screw with
a pointed end such that they can screw into wood. Very small
versions are used to hang pictures and plagues.
Ring Eye Bolts: Ring eye bolts have a ring attached to their eye
to form a chain link.
Pigtail Eye Bolts: Pigtail eye bolts similar to normal low
strength eye bolts but have a head that is bent into a helix and
not fully closed.
Roller Eye Bolts: Roller eye bolts have rollers in the eye that
make passing cables or rope through them easier and more
efficient.

Flange Bolts
Flange bolts have a circular washer-like flange under their head,
which distributes the clamping force over a greater area. In
vehicles, they protect the engine and transmission systems by
holding the outer casing tightly. In piping systems, they firmly hold
the ends of two flanged pipes together.
Serrated Flange Bolts
A flange bolt has a washer that is built into and attached to its
head as a single solid unit, which adds to their strength and
stability. The threads of flange bolts run the full length of the bolt
from its flat end up to the washer. They come in a wide variety of
sizes, styles, and materials and can be custom made to fit unique
applications. The design of flange bolts allows them to evenly
distribute the load across the complete surface of the head of the
bolt.

Some of the common uses of flange bolts include attaching

exhaust systems in vehicles and securing pipes. They are made
from carbon steel and stainless steel to enhance their strength
and durability.

Hanger Bolts
Hanger bolts are a headless bolt with two different types of
threads at opposite ends of the bolt. One end has lag screw
threading while the other end has machine screw threading with a
blunt tip. Hanger bolts are made from stainless steel, zinc plated
steel, galvanized steel, and brass. They are available in diameters
of 0.375 in up to 0.5 in (9.5 mm up to 12.7 mm) and lengths of 0.5
in up to 6 in (12.7 mm up to 152.4 mm). The diameter of the lag
portion of the bolt is normally smaller than the machine portion.

The lag and machine threads are separated by a square shoulder,

which acts as the head for both sets of threads. The shoulder
prevents the bolt from being installed beyond the thread length of
the threads. The two sections of threads make it possible to install
hanger bolts into metal and wood. The installation process
involves drilling a pilot hole, lubricating the bolt with wax or oil, and
using a wrench or drill bit to tighten it.

Hex Bolts
The six sided hexagonal head of a hex bolt gives it its distinctive
appearance. It is an unslotted bolt with threads that can run the
full length of the shank or have threads on a portion of the shank.
Hex bolts are made from a wide variety of materials and come in
different types, styles, sizes, and dimensions. They are known for
their exceptional tensile strength and ability to be used in a wide
variety of applications.

Hex bolts are used with pre-tapped holes and a nut that is
tightened using a wrench, socket, spanner, or hex key. The hex
head makes them easy to grip from multiple angles, which makes
their installation and removal easy. They are categorized by their
size, material or finish, and full or partial threading. The three sizes
of a hex bolt are its length, metric thread size, and its thread pitch
or the number of threads per inch.

J-Bolts
J-bolts have a curved end that gives them the appearance of the
letter “J” with threads at the opposite end of the curve. The curved
portion of the bolt gives it two points of contact for securing
materials. The distinct shape of J-bolts makes it easy to insert
them into pre-drilled holes. The installation of J-bolts involves
placing them into two pre-drilled holes with one hole containing
the flat point of the “J” while the other hole has the threaded
portion. The design of J-bolts makes them ideal for anchoring
walls to the ground or connecting beams.

The most common use for J-bolts is construction where they are
used to anchor walls and support beams. In gardens and parks, J-
bolts are used to secure benches and playground equipment to
concrete surfaces. Their industrial use includes securing
machinery such as presses and conveyor belts to the floor of a
facility.
Lag Bolts
A lag bolt, or lag screw, has a hexagonal or square head and a
threaded shank. As with hex bolts, the threading of a lag bolt can
run the full length of the shank or a large portion of the shank
depending on the bolts design. The shank and threads are tapered
to make it easy to drive a lag bolt into wood. The design of the
threading creates friction between connected materials to prevent
slippage and increase connection strength.

The larger size of lag bolts assists in forming stronger and more
secure connections and provides excellent surface grip. The
installation of lag bolts into wood is easy due to their tapered
shank, which makes assembling of large pieces quicker. It is
important to note that lag bolts are difficult to remove when
installed, a factor that necessitates careful planning when they are
being used.
Machine Bolts
Machine bolts can have a hex or square head with standard right
hand threads. Short length machine bolts of less than six inches
are fully threaded while longer lengths over six inches are
threaded two times the diameter of the bolt plus a half inch.
Machine bolts are unslotted and installed using a nut and socket
wrench. They are manufactured from carbon steel, stainless steel,
and bronze with bronze and stainless steel machine bolts being
resistant to corrosion.

There are several grades of machine bolts with grades two, five,
and eight being the most used in the United States. Higher grades
of machine bolts have greater tensile strength and hardness and
are used when a strong secure connection is required. The proper
use of machine bolts requires that they be tightened to the correct
torque since under tightening can cause joint failure.

Pentagon® Tamper Proof Bolts

Pentagon® tamper proof bolts, also known as penta bolts, are a
type of industrial fastener made of stainless steel. They have a
five-sided head in the shape of a pentagon and come in many
sizes. The five-sided design of the penta bolt prevents the
accumulation of debris or dirt, which can be easily swept away.
When used to secure ground surfaces, penta bolts are recessed to
avoid tripping hazards.

The penta bolt is widely used for city, municipal, and government
infrastructure applications such as manhole covers, waterworks,
valve boxes, meter boxes, ground vaults, electrical junction boxes,
and concrete enclosures. They are categorized as security bolts
since it requires a specially designed tool to loosen or remove
them.

Penta head bolts are manufactured as machine bolts, washer

head bolts, washer head captive style, and lag bolts in various
sizes for all types.

Plow Bolts
Plow bolts have a flat, domed, or convex head with a tapered neck
and fully or partially threaded shanks. The neck of a plow bolt is a
square that is tapered as it is connected to the shank and threads
and is the same size as the diameter of the bolt. The flat, domed,
or convex heads of plow bolts have a neck with an 80o taper. Their
threads are standard right hand threads with full length threading
for short plow bolts and minimum threading for long plow bolts.
The diameters of the heads of plow bolts vary from 0.375 in to 1
inch (9.5 mm to 25.4 mm).

The initial purpose of plow bolts was to secure a plow share to the
frog of the plow to allow earth to easily pass over the head of the
bolt. Modern plow bolts are used to fasten the components of
heavy equipment due their ability to fit flush with the surface of the
equipment. They are available in various grades with grades 5 and
8 being the most common.
Rock Bolts
Rock bolts are threaded bars of steel that are inserted into drilled
holes of a rock face to stabilize the rock face and protect workers.
Once installed, fully grouted rock bolts are grouted in place with
resin or cement. Partially grouted rock bolts are placed in the
drilled hole but secured with less grout, which takes less time and
is quicker.

The structure of rock bolts includes a threaded and free end. The
free end is placed in the drilled hole while the threaded end is
secured to the wall, ceiling, or piece of equipment like scaffolding.
A face plate is attached to the threaded end of the rock bolt using
a nut, which assists in distributing the load.

The purpose of rock bolts is to transfer the load of the rock face
from the exterior of the rock face to its interior. They knit the rock
face together to prevent it from shifting or loosening. Self drilling
rock bolts combine drilling, grouting, and anchoring and have a
pre-attached face plate. Aside from self drilling rock bolts, there
are MDX bolts and fiber reinforced polymer rock bolts.

Sex Bolts or Chicago Bolts

Sex bolts are fasteners with a barrel-shaped female component
with internal threads covering the threaded male component. The
female component serves as the nut and is almost the same
length as the male component. Both components have a flange
that serves as the bearing surface and makes the connection
surface more even. These bolts are ideal for fastening materials
sensitive to abrasive parts. They are used in paper binding,
helmets, railing systems, furniture, playground equipment,
signages, bathroom partitions, and other products.

Shoulder Bolts
Shoulder bolts have a unique form of shank that has a larger
diameter than the threaded portion but not as large as the bolt
head. The heads of shoulder bolts can be hexagonal or round. The
shank has threads that are held in place by a cylindrical shaft that
ensures stability when the threads are inserted into a hole. They
are used in applications where there are vibrations or heavy loads.

Since shoulder bolts have a low profile, they can be used in tight
spaces where traditional bolts do not fit. When a shoulder bolt is
fully installed, the cylindrical portion extends beyond the threads
to act as a shaft or dowel for rotating bearings, guides, axles, and
pivot points or mounting pins. They are used in plastic injection
molds to accurately align the mold halves.
Socket Head Bolts
Socket head bolts are cylindrical shaped with a barrel head that
has a hexagonal socket for tightening using an Allen wrench. The
head of socket head bolts is much smaller than traditional bolts
such that they can be recessed when attached. As with shoulder
bolts, socket head bolts are ideal for applications where there is
limited space. In certain applications, they are recessed into a
countersunk hole such that the top of the bolt is flush with the
surface of the item being fastened.

The use of socket head bolts is due to their high tensile, yield, and
shear strengths. The small size of their head makes it possible to
use them in small countersunk holes. The variations in the heads
of socket head bolts include button heads that are domed, flange
heads, low profile heads, self locking heads, and vented heads that
have a hole drilled through the length of the socket head bolt to
allow for venting of fluids and gas.

Square Bolts
As with several forms of bolts, square head bolts get their name
from the shape of their distinct head, which can have four or six
sides. In many cases, square head bolts are countersunk to
prevent their heads from sticking out. The shanks of square head
bolts vary in accordance with the application where they are being
used. Their threads start at the end of the shank and extend up
toward the head. The length of the threads vary depending on the
design of the bolt.

The square heads of square head bolts provide more surface area,
which makes it possible to tighten them with greater force without
stripping or breaking the bolt. This characteristic has made them
popular in applications where torque is necessary for securing
equipment and heavy machinery. They fit easily into pre-drilled
holes due their shape and tips that guide them through the hole.

Structural Bolts
Structural bolts are used with hex nuts to connect structural steel
members and are made to meet ASTM standards A563 and A194.
They are graded by their size range, proof load, and their minimum
yield and tensile strength. Structural bolts are categorized as high-
strength bolts because of their exceptional tensile strength and
ability to form secure and tight joint connections. In addition, they
can withstand higher torque, which is essential for steel
constructions.

SAE Grade 9 structural bolts, also called grade 9 hex cap screws,
are the strongest form of structural bolt, with a tensile strength of
180,000 PSI. They are used in highly stressful applications where
heavy-duty bolts are required, such as manufacturing machinery
and bulldozers. In addition, grade 9 structural bolts are made of
yellow zinc chromate, which makes them corrosion-resistant.

Stud Bolts
Stud bolts have a fully threaded or partially threaded stud or bar
without a head. They have nuts at either end of the stud to tightly
secure a connection. Partially threaded stud bolts have an
unthreaded portion in the middle of the stud with threads of
varying lengths at each end. Stud bolts can have washers added
and additional nuts for special applications. They are used in high
pressure piping, wheel hub assemblies, and pipeline flange
connections.

The ends of stud bolts are rounded, sheared, saw cut, flat, or
chamfered. Their length is measured from one end of the threads
to the other end of the threads and come in quarter inch
incremental lengths. They are normally used for joining
components with internal holes such as wheel hub assemblies.

The types of stud bolts include:

Fully Threaded Stud – Fully threaded bolts are a threaded bar.

Double-End Stud – Double end stud bolt has threading at both
ends and an unthreaded portion in the middle.
Hex Stud – Hex stud bolt has a hex shaped middle portion.
Tap End Stud – Tap end stud bolts have a short amount of
thread at one end to be tapped into a hole with the other end
having a nut for its threads.
 Flange Stud – Flange stud bolts have continuous threads and
chamfered ends.
Wheel Stud – The unique shape of a wheel stud bolt includes a
threaded end, body, knurled portion, and head.

There are two types of partially threaded stud bolts:

Double end stud bolts have equal lengths of thread on both

ends of the bolt shaft. They are commonly used in sealing
flanges.

Tap end stud bolts have a thread shorter than the other at one
end. The shorter thread is inserted in a tapped machine hole,
while the longer thread accepts the nut.
T-Head Bolts
T-head bolts have a threaded shank with threads of varying links
and a slotted head in the shape of a “T” or rectangle. The
configuration of the head and shank looks like a hammer, which
has given T-head bolts the name of hammerhead bolts. The
distinct T shape of the head makes it possible to use T-head bolts
in slots where they are held in place with a 90o turn of the head.

The different configurations of T-head bolts include ones with a

square neck, a long extended T, flat head T, and domed T. A
common application for T-head bolts is securing channeling, guide
rails, and flush fittings. The T-shaped head fits easily into the T-
shape of a drill swivel head.

Tap Bolts
Tap bolts are fully threaded bolts with a hexagonal head and
standard right hand threads. Their point is chamfered or rounded
to protect the first threads at the end of the shaft, which facilitates
their entry into parts. They come in varying lengths to meet the
needs of a wide range of applications. The proper use of a tap bolt
requires that it extend far enough into the pre-drilled hole such
that a nut and washer can be placed on the shank of the bolt.

The threading of tap bolts varies with manufacturers with the

standard length of the threads being twice the diameter of the
shank. Tap bolts are normally installed with a washer and a hex
nut. They are made of stainless and hardened steel with stainless
steel tap bolts being used in corrosive environments. Tap bolts are
used to adjust the tension on a pulley and attach motors.

Toggle Bolts
Toggle bolts, known as butterfly anchors, are weight bearing bolts
that are designed to securely hold brackets and shelves. They are
a two part assembly that consists of a fully threaded bolt and a
metal wing toggle. The installation process for toggle bolts
includes removing the wings and placing the item to be secured
on the bolt. Once the item is properly placed, the wings are
reattached to the bolt. A pilot hole is drilled into the surface,
usually drywall, where the item is to be hung.
With the item to be hung attached, the bolt and toggle are placed
through the pre-drilled hole far enough to allow the wings to
spread by pulling back on the bolt. Once the wings are open and
placed, the bolt is tightened to secure the item.

The two basic types of toggle bolts are standard and spring. The
difference between the versions of toggle bolts is the design of
their wings. The metal wings of standard toggle bolts fold against
the threads and shaft of the bolt when the bolt is being inserted
into a pre-drilled hole. Spring toggle bolts have an anchor that
looks like a nut with wings. When they are installed, the anchor is
placed in the pre-drilled hole first. When the bolt is screwed into
the anchor, the wings expand on the interior of the wall.

Tork Bolts
Tork bolts, also known as shear bolts or breakaway bolts, are a
unique type of security bolt that come with both flat or
countersunk heads and button heads. The structure of a tork bolt
is unlike any other form of bolt since they have one head placed
on top of another with a breakaway connector. The upper head is
hexagonal for easy installation using traditional wrenches.

With a tork bolt, the hexagonal head is designed to shear off or

break away when the head's maximum torque is achieved. This
configuration permanently places the bolt, making it difficult to
remove using conventional tools. When a wrench separates the
head from the bolt, the bolt left behind can no longer be gripped,
making the bolt exceptionally secure.

Since installing tork bolts does not require a special tool, they are
an easy solution for attaching products, equipment, or
components that could be vulnerable to tampering using any other
forms of bolts. Their purpose is to protect secured items against
unauthorized relocation, tampering, or interference.

Track Bolts
Track bolts have a round or circular head that is rounded or flat
with the most common form being an oval head with a round face
and two holes, one hole at the top and one at the bottom. The
holes in the bolt head are used to attach the bolt to tracks or
equipment. Track bolts have round or square necks that take
various forms depending on the design of the bolt.

The main use of track bolts is to join tracks, railway signals,

footbridges, and trackside equipment. They are made to endure
stressful conditions where there is high speed rail traffic, and
durability is a necessity due to the extreme wear of the conditions.
High strength track bolts are made of high strength steel due to
the nature of the applications for which they are manufactured.
They are large bolts with strength grades between 8.8 and 10.9
with 10.9 being the most common. Track bolts can weigh over two
pounds (0.907 kg) and be nearly six in (15 cm) long.

U-Bolts
U-bolts are “U” shaped bolts with threads on the ends of each arm
of the bolt. They are made of various types of metals depending
on the required strength for the use of the bolt with steel, stainless
steel, copper and brass being the most common metals. The size
of U-bolts is determined by the distance between the arms of the
bolt and its length from end to end.

A common use for U-bolts is supporting piping to rest, guide, or

hold pipes. The sizes and thicknesses of U-bolts is designed to fit
the various sizes of pipes. Non-gripped U-bolts are the most
common form and do not restrict axial movement of piping.
Gripped U-bolts serve as anchors and restrict pipe movement.
When gripped U-bolts are installed, there is no space between the
pipe and the curve of the U-bolt.
Expansion Bolts
Expansion bolts consist of a bolt, nut, and expansion sleeve that
fits over the bolt along its shaft. They are used in applications
where there isn’t excess to the backside of the surface to be
secured. The head of an expansion bolt sits on top of the
expansion sleeve and is inserted into a pre-drilled hole in the
material to be connected. As the nut of the bolt is tightened, the
sleeve expands outward against the walls of the pre-drilled hole
and against the material to create a firm, secure, and tight grip that
cannot be loosened by vibrations or shock loads.

The design of expansion bolts makes them ideal for making

connections in porous materials such as bricks, stone, and
concrete. Expansion bolts are a one time use bolt that remains
installed and is never intended to be removed. The heart of an
expansion bolt is its sleeve, which has to be durable and capable
of making contact with several anchor points to provide stability.

Industrial Bolts
Industrial bolts are durable fasteners capable of withstanding
extreme weather conditions and the effects of chemicals. The
long list of industrial bolts includes hex bolts, leg bolts, eye bolts,
U-bolts, and stud bolts. The term industrial bolt is a broad ranging
name of a special category of bolts for connecting equipment,
parts, and components. In the majority of cases, their installation
is permanent, which is the reason they have to be exceptionally
strong.

The general classification of industrial bolts is due to their wide

range of uses and the types that are required for industrial use and
applications. Although there are standard industrial bolts that have
been in use for hundreds of years, new designs are being
perfected to meet the ever changing demands and requirements
of industrial processes. Regardless of the many changes and
innovations of industrial bolts, the basic parts of industrial bolts
include two or three components, which are a shaft, head,
threading, and rod. Nuts are normally used with industrial bolts but
are not a necessity.

As may be expected, the wide range of industrial bolts are

manufactured from several different metals, which are selected in
accordance with the application for which the bolt is
manufactured. The metals used the most to produce industrial
bolts are steel, stainless steel, titanium, bronze, brass, and
aluminum with carbon and hardened steel being the most
common metals.

Steel grades for industrial bolts are grades 2, 5, 8, and alloyed

steel. Stainless steel grades are grades 18-8, 316, and 410. The
durability of industrial bolts is enhanced by coatings of zinc, hot
dip galvanizing, and chrome with galvanizing being the most
common.

Unlike other forms of bolts, industrial bolts have to be carefully

selected to ensure proper performance, durability, stability, and
endurance. In most cases, they are an essential part of securing
equipment, platforms, floors, machinery, and other crucial aspects
of industrial operations.

Metric Bolts
Metric bolts are manufactured using the dimensions of the metric
system of measurement for thread pitch, shaft lengths, and
diameter measurement. Manufacturers like using the metric
system because it makes it easier to scale the dimensions of bolts
up or down. Metric bolts greater than 6 mm are stamped with ISO
M indicating they comply with ISO standards.

A metric bolt is defined as having a length of 6 mm with shorter

bolts being considered to be imperial measurement system bolts.
For a bolt to be a metric bolt, its shaft and diameter are
manufactured and measured in millimeters with the diameter
determined by measuring a bolt across its flat surface. Metric
bolts are composed of five thread types and ten strength grades
with nineteen standard sizes and ten non-standard sizes.

The major difference between standard and metric bolts is the

specifications for the threads. Metric threads have their pitch
identified in millimeters, which is the distance between the peaks
of each thread. Standard measurements count the number of
threads per one inch. Beyond the pitch of metric bolts, they are
also identified by the major diameter in millimeters, the distance
across the bolt from the peak of a thread across the bolt to the
peak of an opposite thread.

Stainless Steel Bolts

Nearly every type of bolt can be made from stainless steel, which
has 150 different grades and surface finishes. The two grades that
are used the most are grade 304, which is a commercial grade,
and grade 316, which is a marine grade. In some cases, grades 18-
8 and A2 are used the same as grade 304 with some users
believing the three grades are the same.

The use of stainless steel in the manufacture of bolts is due to

stainless steel's exceptional resistance to corrosion and varying
resistance to acids. Stainless steel alloys are iron based with at
least 10% chromium combined with varying amounts of other
metals, which changes stainless steel’s resistance to acids,
chemicals, and heat and changes its strength. The chromium
content of stainless steel forms a sealed protective layer and is
the main reason for its resistance to corrosion.

Stainless steel is easy to fabricate and widely used for the

production of consumer products such as ones used for the
preparation of food. It has a pleasing appearance that adds
aesthetic appeal to products. Since stainless has hygienic
properties, stainless steel bolts are used in the manufacture of
food preparation equipment, medical instruments, surgical tools,
and hospital equipment.

Thru-Bolts
A thru-bolt includes a nut, washer, shank with an expansion taper,
and an expansion clip. A plain blunt nip is located above the nut
and washer at the opposite end of the expansion taper and clip.
Special types of thru-bolts have depth indicators on their threads.
They are friction anchor bolts that apply significant stress on the
substrate, which makes them ideal for use with concrete
substrate.

Thru-bolts are installed by drilling a hole that has the same

diameter as the bolt. Once the hole has been thoroughly cleaned,
the expansion taper end of the bolt is forced into the hole up to the
portion just before the threads. The bolt and washer are tightened
such that the tapered end moves up into the clip forcing the clip to
expand and open against the walls of the hole. The torque from
the tightening of the nut sets the anchor and creates clamping
force.

Proper installation of thru-bolts includes the correct spacing

between bolts and avoidance of placing them too close to the
edge of the substrate. Thru-bolts, also known as through bolts, use
the same principle as expansion bolts to secure items to brick,
concrete, and cement. The key to the performance of thru-bolts is
to ensure that they are installed with the correct torque.

Chapter 4: Top Bolt

Manufacturers
American Fastener Technologies
American Fastener Technologies manufactures a wide array of
fasteners for use in construction, marine applications, and the oil
and gas industry. The company produces fasteners in metric
measurements and the standard English system. The demand for
American Fastener Technologies is due to the precision and
exacting tolerances of their products. Regardless of its long list of
standard fasteners, American Fastener Technologies’ highly
trained staff of engineers is capable of producing specialty
fasteners for unusual applications.

US Bolt Manufacturing
US Bolt Manufacturing produces bolts for offshore drilling,
production equipment, power generating equipment, pumps,
valves, Navy ships, and pressure vessels. The company’s main
focus is safety related applications and the manufacture of hex
head bolts, flange bolts, hex nuts, lock nuts, and specialty
fasteners. US Bolt Manufacturing is ISO 9001:2015 certified and
ISO 17025:2017 certified. The key to the success of US Bolt
Manufacturing is its close attention to the quality of their products
by monitoring the production process from the raw materials to
the final products.

American Bolt Corporation

American Bolt Corporation manufactures socket, bolt, screw, nut,
and washer products, which includes a selection of nine different
styles of bolts. They can produce single and double ended studs
and have anchor bolt assemblies with tack welds and plate
washers. American Bolt offers cutting, threading and crimping,
and packaging and kitting.

Conformance Fasteners
Conformance Fasteners, a Michigan based manufacturer,
produces a wide assortment of bolts, screws, nuts, and other
fasteners. The company has an ISO 9001:2008 certification and
works closely with the auto industry. Conformance Fastener
produces bolts and screws of varying lengths with different shank
designs and threads, including flanged bolts, elevator bolts, and
carrier bolts. A major benefit of doing business with Conformance
Fasteners is their dedication to reducing customer costs and
providing engineering assistance.

All State Fastener Corporation

All State Fastener Corporation produces bolts, screws, nuts,
washers, and various specialty products using aluminum, brass,
bronze, steel, and stainless steel. The company has one of the
largest selections of cold formed and hot forged bolts and screws.
All State Fastener offers fasteners designed for weight reduction,
heat and corrosion resistance, and the capability to meet stringent
tolerance requirements. The company is proud to provide standard
fasteners as well as ones for critical safety applications.

Conclusion
Bolts are used to fasten and assemble parts from within
aligned unthreaded holes, typically with the use of a matching
nut.
Bolts primarily consist of a shaft and a bolt head. The
unthreaded portion of the bolt shaft is called the shank, while
the threaded portion is the bolt thread.
Bolts are commonly used with a nut and sometimes with a
washer.
The fastener terminologies related to bolts are shank diameter,
major diameter, minor diameter, pitch, nominal length, grip
length, thread length, thread pitch, threads per inch, right-
handed threads, left-handed threads, chamfer, and chamfer
angle.
Bolts are specified using either the metric or imperial system.

The types of bolts are: