Glossary

A metal cleaning process that, uses an acid mixture to remove surface impurities such as rust, scale, or oxides.

A trapezoidal thread form with a 29° thread angle, designed for strength and smooth motion. Commonly used in lead screws and power transmission, Acme threads provide better load-carrying capability and wear resistance compared to standard V-shaped threads.

An acorn cap nut, also known simply as an acorn nut or a cap nut, is a type of nut with a domed, closed-end on one side. The dome shape provides a finished, decorative look and also covers and protects the exposed threaded end of the bolt or screw.

An acoustical wedge anchor is a specialized type of mechanical anchor designed for suspending acoustical ceilings and other lightweight overhead systems from concrete. It is a wedge-style expansion anchor that provides a secure hold in solid concrete and is tailored specifically for non-structural, lightweight loads.

The Hex Flange Lock Nuts, or Stover Flange Nuts, are crimped like Hex Top Lock Nuts and designed with a built-in washer. The crimped tops provide metal-to-metal gripping strength with male threads to prevent loosening. The washers give the nuts a wider clamping force — protecting the material being fastened. This nut excels in the vibrating world of truck frames. Earnest offers Hex Flange Lock Nuts in a Grade G strength equaling the strength level of Grade 8 nuts.

An All-Metal Hex Flange Lock Nut DIN 6927 is a metal lock nut with an integrated flange that conforms to DIN 6927, a German standard. It is designed to resist loosening under vibration and torque without the use of nylon inserts or adhesives.

Crowned Top Lock Nut, Stover Lock Nut, Prevailing Torque Lock Nut, Top Lock Locking Nut, and Auto Style Lock Nut all describe the Top Lock Nut, This common metal lock nut is crimped or slightly indented at the top to increase its grip strength. The Crimping creates metal-to-metal contact that prevents the nut from loosening in high-vibration applications.

An All-Metal Lock Nut DIN 980 is a metal self-locking hex nut that conforms to the DIN 980 standard, which specifies dimensions and performance for prevailing torque-type lock nuts. These nuts are designed to resist loosening under vibration and dynamic loads without using nylon inserts or adhesives.

Industrial anchors are heavy-duty fastening devices used to secure equipment, structures, or other items to concrete, steel, or other materials in industrial settings. These anchors are designed to handle significant loads and stresses, making them essential for various applications, including construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects.

An anchor bolt is a type of fastener used to attach structures or objects to concrete. It is typically embedded in concrete and provides a secure point to fasten things like structural steel columns, light poles, machinery, or building foundations.

An anchor eye bolt is a type of anchor bolt that has a loop or "eye" at one end instead of a standard hex head or exposed thread. It is designed to be embedded into a solid base like concrete, masonry, or wood, and provides a secure point for attaching ropes, cables, chains, or other hardware.

A heat treatment process used to soften metal as well as improve its ductility, and relieve internal stresses. During this process, the metal is heated and held at a specific temperature for a designated period of time. Afterward, the metal is cooled slowly at a controlled rate. This process enhances the workability of the metal, making it easier to shape or machine without the risk of cracking.

An arbor bolt is a short, flanged, and often reverse-threaded bolt used to secure blades or wheels to a rotating arbor on power tools. It’s designed to resist loosening under rotational force and provide even, secure clamping of cutting or grinding attachments.

ASTM A193 is a standard specification developed by ASTM International that covers alloy and stainless steel bolting materials used for high-temperature or high-pressure service, and for special purpose applications.

ASTM A194 is a standard specification by ASTM International that covers carbon, alloy, and stainless steel nuts used primarily in high-pressure and high-temperature service conditions, often paired with bolts or studs made to ASTM A193.

ASTM A307 is a standard specification from ASTM International that covers carbon steel bolts and studs with specified minimum tensile strength, generally used for general-purpose fastening applications in low- or moderate-strength environments. Covers carbon steel bolts and studs up to 3 inches in diameter with tensile strength typically around 60,000 psi (415 MPa).

ASTM A325 is a widely used standard specification for structural steel bolts intended for high-strength connections in structural steel applications, such as building construction and bridges. Typically from 1/2 inch to 1-1/2 inch diameter, but sizes can vary.

ASTM A354 is a standard specification from ASTM International that covers quenched and tempered alloy steel bolts and studs with specified minimum tensile strengths, typically used in high-strength and high-temperature applications where toughness and wear resistance are required.

ASTM A449 is a standard specification from ASTM International that covers quenched and tempered alloy steel bolts, studs, and threaded rods with specified minimum tensile strength for high-strength mechanical applications. Commonly available in diameters up to 4 inches or larger for studs and rods.

ASTM A490 is a standard specification from ASTM International for high-strength structural bolts made from alloy steel, designed for heavy structural steel connections requiring greater strength than ASTM A325 bolts. Typically from 1/2 inch up to 1-1/2 inch diameter, similar to A325 sizes.

ASTM A563 is a standard specification from ASTM International that covers carbon and alloy steel nuts used in conjunction with structural bolts, such as those specified by ASTM A325 and ASTM A490.

ASTM F593 is a standard specification from ASTM International that covers stainless steel bolts, hex cap screws, and studs used for general-purpose fastening applications.

ASTM F594 is a standard specification from ASTM International that covers stainless steel nuts designed to be used with stainless steel bolts, screws, and studs—commonly those specified under ASTM F593.

A type of stainless steel commonly used in fasteners for its high corrosion resistance, non-magnetic properties, and ease of forming. These fasteners contain high levels of chromium and nickel and maintain strength and toughness across a wide temperature range. Common examples include 304 and 316 stainless steel. Unlike other types of stainless steel, austenitic stainless steel cannot be hardened by heat treatment.