Glossary

Also know as Cold Welding: Occurs when two metal surfaces rub against each other under pressure, causing material to transfer and "weld" together, often making disassembly difficult or impossible. It's common with stainless steel, aluminum, and titanium fasteners.

A tapered, sharp point on a screw designed to easily penetrate materials like wood or plastic without the need for a pilot hole. It helps start the screw smoothly and guides it into the material with less splitting or damage.

A term used to describe a fastener’s material properties and strength level. Used primarily for inch fasteners, grades are defined by standards organizations such as SAE, ASTM, ISO, or IFI, and help determine appropriate applications based on tensile strength, hardness, and overall performance. Higher grades typically indicate stronger, more durable fasteners.

Symbols or numbers stamped on bolts, screws, nuts, or lock nuts that are used to easily identify the fastener’s strength level and material composition.

Hex Flange Screws with EPDM Sealing Washers, also known as Grain Bin Bolts, are designed with a recessed flange under the head to fully conform to a rubber washer, creating a watertight and moisture-repellant seal. Earnest Machine's line of product comes preassembled with an EPDM washer, which performs well in extreme weather conditions, meaning the EPDM washer will not dry out or crack in the sun, and it will not become brittle in freezing temperatures.