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What Are Heat-Resistant and Corrosion-Resistant Screws? Characteristics of Products Suitable for Harsh Environments

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  • May 22nd, 2025
What Are Heat-Resistant and Corrosion-Resistant Screws? Characteristics of Products Suitable for Harsh Environments
In the manufacturing industry, screws used in harsh environments exposed to high temperatures and corrosive substances are indispensable. In such environments, ordinary screws cannot maintain their performance, which may lead to serious accidents or deterioration in product quality. Therefore, special screws with excellent heat and corrosion resistance are required. This article explains in detail the types, characteristics, and actual use cases of heat- and corrosion-resistant screws. It especially targets engineers and procurement personnel in the manufacturing industry, covering how to choose the right screws, important precautions, and the latest technology trends. This will provide readers with the knowledge needed to use products safely and efficiently even in harsh environments. Heat-resistant screws are intended for use in high-temperature environments and are made from special materials. The main ones include stainless steel, heat-resistant alloys, and ceramics. Stainless Steel: Ferritic and austenitic stainless steels are highly resistant to high-temperature oxidation and are relatively inexpensive. Ferritic types in particular are excellent at maintaining strength at high temperatures. Heat-Resistant Alloys: Heat-resistant alloys such as nickel-based alloys can be used at even higher temperatures and are widely used in the aerospace and power generation industries. Ceramics: Ceramics like alumina and zirconia have extremely high heat resistance but are brittle, which limits their application environments. These materials are selected according to the usage temperature and environment to produce screws with appropriate characteristics. There are standards for heat-resistant screws to ensure their performance in high-temperature environments. Representative standards include JIS G 3411 (stainless steel bars for high temperature) and JIS G 4901 (heat-resistant alloy bars). These standards specify the chemical composition, mechanical properties, and high-temperature performance of materials, making it essential to select screws that meet the appropriate standards for the application environment. Heat-resistant screws are used in various fields exposed to high temperatures, such as semiconductor manufacturing equipment, the aerospace industry, and automotive components. Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment: Used to fix parts of equipment used in high-temperature processes. Aerospace Industry: Screws that can withstand high temperatures are essential for joining jet engine parts and airframe structures. Automotive Components: Used in high-temperature areas such as around engines and exhaust systems. In these cases, the screws must also resist vibration and corrosion, so appropriate materials and standards must be selected. Corrosion-resistant screws are used in environments exposed to corrosive substances such as moisture, chemicals, and saltwater. Therefore, materials with excellent corrosion resistance are selected. Stainless Steel (Austenitic, SUS316L): Contains chromium ...

Difference Between Bolts and Nuts: Essential Knowledge for Manufacturing Personnel

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  • May 16th, 2025
Difference Between Bolts and Nuts: Essential Knowledge for Manufacturing Personnel
In the manufacturing field, bolts and nuts are critical fastening components that influence product quality and safety. However, due to the wide variety of types and standards, many people may feel uncertain about their selection and use. This article provides a clear explanation of the basics of bolts and nuts for those working in manufacturing. From the differences between bolts and nuts, to types, standards, fastening techniques, and procurement strategies, it comprehensively covers practical information. By reading this article, you will be able to choose the right bolts and nuts, ensuring a safe and efficient manufacturing environment. A bolt is a male-threaded fastener used to securely join two components. The threads are cut on the outside and are used in combination with a nut. Hex bolts are commonly used in construction and machinery assembly, while socket head bolts are useful for working in tight spaces. Eye bolts are used for lifting objects, and wing bolts can be tightened by hand, making them suitable for frequent removal. When selecting a bolt, consider strength, size, material, and surface treatments to prevent rust. A nut is a female-threaded component that is used in combination with a bolt to fasten parts. Threads are cut on the inside. Hex nuts are the most common, while cap nuts cover the end of a bolt to improve safety. Wing nuts are easy to tighten by hand, and spring nuts are excellent for preventing loosening. When selecting a nut, be sure to check compatibility with the bolt, fastening strength, and anti-loosening features. Proper bolt and nut combinations are essential to ensure fastening strength, safety, and durability. If the thread diameter, pitch, or material do not match, it can lead to loosening or breakage. Especially in environments with vibration or heavy loads, proper matching and fastening control are critical. JIS standards are national standards aimed at improving the quality and standardization of industrial products in Japan. In the case of bolts and nuts, detailed specifications exist for dimensions, materials, and strength, and they are widely used within Japan. Representative examples include JIS B 1180 for hex bolts and JIS B 1181 for hex nuts. In recent years, new JIS standards conforming to ISO have also been introduced to align with international standards. ISO standards are international standards defined by the International Organization for Standardization and are widely adopted in global trade. The primary difference from JIS standards lies in ...

Features and Selection of Eco-Friendly Screws: Sustainability Solutions for the Manufacturing Industry

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  • May 09th, 2025
Features and Selection of Eco-Friendly Screws: Sustainability Solutions for the Manufacturing Industry
For the manufacturing industry, sustainability has become an essential management strategy for ensuring business continuity. Amid increasing environmental regulations and growing interest in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) management, there is a rising demand for reducing the environmental impact of every component that makes up a product. Among these, screws—used in virtually all products—cannot be overlooked due to their sheer volume and potential environmental impact. This is where eco-friendly screws come into focus. These refer to screws designed to minimize environmental impact throughout their entire lifecycle, from production to disposal. In this article, we will provide manufacturing professionals with a concise overview of the fundamentals of eco-friendly screws, how to select them, the benefits of their adoption, and how they contribute to sustainability. Eco-friendly screws, as the name suggests, are screws designed with environmental consideration in mind. The key concept is to minimize their environmental impact throughout their entire lifecycle—from production to disposal. Rather than evaluating just one part of the process, this approach takes a holistic view that includes raw material sourcing, manufacturing, transportation, usage, and disposal or recycling. As corporate environmental responsibility becomes increasingly critical, consideration at the component level directly influences the environmental value of the entire product, making this approach more important than ever. There are various approaches to eco-friendliness. Here are the main types and their features: 1. Material-Based Consideration Screws Made from Recycled Materials: Utilize recycled resources like scrap metal or waste plastics, contributing to resource efficiency and waste reduction. Biomass Plastic Screws: Made from plant-based materials, these reduce dependence on petroleum and can help lower CO₂ emissions, supporting carbon neutrality. Screws Free of Hazardous Substances: Made without regulated harmful substances like lead, cadmium, or hexavalent chromium. These materials and coatings protect both human health and the environment. 2. Environmentally Conscious Manufacturing Processes Energy-Efficient Manufacturing: Uses low-energy methods such as cold forging (processing at room temperature) or thread rolling (forming threads without cutting), reducing overall energy consumption. Waste-Reducing Production: Techniques like thread rolling also produce minimal scrap, helping to eliminate material waste. Water-Saving Technologies: Implement systems that reduce water usage in cleaning and surface treatment processes, including technologies for water reuse. 3. Eco-Friendly Surface Treatments Hexavalent Chromium-Free Coatings: Replace traditional chromate coatings containing toxic hexavalent chromium with safer alternatives like trivalent chromate treatments or non-chromium coatings (e.g., zinc-nickel alloy plating). These methods comply with environmental regulations while still ensuring necessary corrosion resistance. Understanding these ...

Screw Management Methods to Prevent Fastening Failures: Checkpoints in the Manufacturing Site

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  • May 02nd, 2025
Screw Management Methods to Prevent Fastening Failures: Checkpoints in the Manufacturing Site
Many everyday products are held together by screws. This small component, often overlooked, actually plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality and safety of products. What happens if a screw is not properly tightened? It could lead to reduced performance, malfunction, or even serious accidents. In industries requiring high reliability, improper screw fastening must be absolutely avoided. This article explains the types and causes of screw fastening failures that may occur in manufacturing settings, along with specific management methods and checkpoints to prevent them. We hope this content will support site managers, operators, and quality control personnel in achieving safer and higher-quality manufacturing. To ensure stable quality, it’s important to first understand what types of fastening failures can occur and what causes them. Here are some of the most common screw fastening failures encountered on-site: Loosening: A phenomenon where the screw gradually rotates and the fastening force weakens due to vibration, shock, or temperature changes after tightening. This is especially critical in machines that operate under constant vibration. Breakage: When the applied torque (the force used to turn the screw) is too high, the screw or the material being fastened cannot withstand the force and breaks. On the other hand, insufficient torque can lead to loosening or rattling. Stripping (Damaged Screw Head): This occurs when the tool doesn’t properly engage with the screw head’s slot or corners and still rotates, resulting in the slot or corners being rounded off, making it impossible to turn the screw. This is common with small screws or screws made of soft materials. Misalignment / Angled Fastening: This happens when the screw is not inserted straight or in the correct position before being tightened. This can lead to improper assembly, malfunction, or insufficient strength. In addition to these, other issues such as excessive compression of gaskets or initial defects in the screws themselves can also occur. These fastening defects are often the result of multiple interrelated factors. Let’s look at the main causes: Improper Screw Selection: Choosing screws that do not match the operating environment (temperature, humidity, vibration), required strength, or the type of material being fastened (e.g., incorrect material, strength grade, or type) can easily lead to corrosion, insufficient strength, or loosening. Poor Torque Management: Fastening torque is not properly set or controlled, tools like torque wrenches are not calibrated, or tightening is done by feel. These factors contribute to over-tightening or under-tightening. ...

Types of Special Screws Useful on the Production Line and How to Use Them

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  • April 24th, 2025
Types of Special Screws Useful on the Production Line and How to Use Them
Special screws significantly influence the efficiency and quality of production lines. These fasteners, which cannot be replaced by standard screws, are characterized by their unique shapes, materials, and functions, tailored to meet diverse needs in manufacturing environments. This article provides a comprehensive explanation of various types of special screws, selection criteria, and practical use cases. It aims to assist engineers and procurement professionals in selecting the optimal special screws to enhance productivity and ensure quality in manufacturing lines. Hex Socket Head Cap Screws: Enable high torque transmission via hex wrenches, ideal for confined spaces. Torx Screws: Characterized by star-shaped recesses, offering superior torque transmission and slip resistance. Self-tapping Screws: Capable of forming their own threads, compatible with various materials and highly efficient. Special-shape Screws: Designed with unique dimensions for specific applications. Shoulder Bolts: Feature stepped shafts for precise positioning and secure fastening of components. Anti-loosening Screws: Resist vibration and shock, ideal for high-safety environments. Tamper-proof Screws: Require specialized tools for removal, enhancing security and theft resistance. Low-profile Screws: Feature a thin head, effective in space-constrained settings. Vacuum Screws: Designed for use in vacuum environments such as semiconductor manufacturing. Plastic Screws: Lightweight and insulating, widely used in electronics and medical devices. Each special screw is optimized for specific applications through its unique design and function. In the automotive sector, Torx screws are used for high-torque engine components, while low-profile screws are favored for space-restricted interiors. In the medical field, titanium and plastic screws are often selected for their biocompatibility and light weight. These specialized fasteners help improve production efficiency, enhance product quality, and reduce costs. Stainless Steel: Corrosion-resistant and ideal for outdoor, wet, or chemical environments. Titanium Alloy: Lightweight with high strength, suitable for aerospace and medical applications. Aluminum Alloy: Lightweight and easy to machine, commonly used in electronics and automotive parts. Brass: Excellent conductivity and machinability, often used in electrical components and decorative applications. Plastic: Lightweight and insulating, ideal for specific conditions in electronics and medical equipment. The selection of screw material greatly depends on the operating environment and required performance. For example, titanium or alloy steel is preferred for engine parts requiring high strength and heat resistance, while stainless steel is used in corrosive marine environments. Aluminum and titanium alloys are chosen for lightweight demands in aerospace and medical fields. Plastic screws, valued for their insulation and cost, are commonly used in electronics. Understanding these material properties is essential ...

Explanation of screw surface treatment: Methods and examples for improving rust prevention and durability

  • Column
  • April 17th, 2025
Explanation of screw surface treatment: Methods and examples for improving rust prevention and durability
Screws are essential components used in every aspect of our daily lives. However, even small screws can rust or wear out depending on the environment. This is where “surface treatment” becomes important. In this article, we explain why surface treatment of screws is important, what types exist, and how to choose the appropriate method. Deepen your understanding of screw surface treatments to help create safer and longer-lasting products. There are various types and methods of screw surface treatments. Let’s take a closer look at some representative examples. Plating involves forming a thin metal film on the surface of the base metal. Electroplating: Uses electrolysis to deposit metal, forming relatively thin films. Suitable for small parts. Electroless plating: Uses chemical reactions to deposit metal, allowing application to non-metal materials as well. Hot-dip plating: Involves immersing parts in molten metal, offering excellent cost performance. This method enhances rust resistance by coating iron surfaces with zinc. Features & Applications: Cost-effective and suitable for outdoor rust prevention. Sacrificial protection shields the iron. Widely used in construction and civil engineering. Pros & Cons: Offers good durability but performs poorly in high-temperature environments. Forms a thicker zinc layer than regular zinc plating, offering excellent corrosion resistance. Features & Applications: Prevents oxygen and moisture penetration and provides high durability. Suitable for infrastructure and large-scale structures. Pros & Cons: While durable, it is unsuitable for precision components. Improves corrosion and wear resistance by adding nickel to the zinc layer. Features & Applications: Offers excellent durability in environments with salt damage or chemical exposure. Pros & Cons: High corrosion and wear resistance but may come with higher costs. An eco-friendly treatment method offering excellent corrosion and durability performance. Features & Applications: Supports various color tones and is widely used in automobiles, construction, and electronics. Compliant with RoHS Directive. Pros & Cons: Environmentally friendly but requires strict process control. Black Oxide (Parkerizing): Produces ferric oxide film chemically. Low corrosion resistance, mainly used for decoration or paint pre-treatment. Nickel Plating: Enhances corrosion and wear resistance. Suitable for aesthetic purposes. Chrome Plating: Improves wear and heat resistance. Used in highly durable applications. Dacromet Coating: A non-electrolytic method enhancing corrosion resistance. Ideal for high-strength screws. Painting: Involves applying paint for improved rust protection and appearance. Common in outdoor or chemically exposed environments. Surface treatments offer many benefits but also come with a few drawbacks. Let’s explore both sides. Improved Corrosion Resistance: Surface treatments ...

How to choose screws that won’t fail: Common problems and countermeasures

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  • April 10th, 2025
How to choose screws that won’t fail: Common problems and countermeasures
Screws are used everywhere in our daily lives—from assembling furniture to home appliances, cars, and even buildings. Despite their importance, choosing the wrong screw can lead to wobbly furniture, machine failures, or in the worst-case scenario, serious accidents. This article comprehensively covers everything you need to know about screws: how to choose the right one, common issues and their solutions, and how to use them properly in DIY, furniture, and construction. By reading this article, you will be better equipped to avoid screw selection mistakes and lead a safer, more comfortable life. Screws are used in many of the products around us and come in a wide range of types and uses. To choose the right screw, it’s important to understand their basic structure and characteristics. A screw consists of three main parts: the head, shank, and thread. The head is the part where tools like screwdrivers are applied; the shank is the cylindrical body that fastens the materials; and the threads are spiral grooves that grip into the material, providing secure fastening. Screw sizes are typically expressed by their diameter (shaft thickness), length, and pitch (thread spacing). The diameter is measured in millimeters (mm), the length refers to the shaft length excluding the head, and pitch describes the distance between threads—either coarse or fine. The material of a screw varies depending on the environment and application. Steel: High strength and widely used for general applications. Stainless Steel: Corrosion-resistant, ideal for use around water or outdoors. Aluminum: Lightweight and easy to machine, though not as strong as steel. Brass: Visually appealing and used in decorative applications or electronics. Having this basic knowledge allows you to make informed decisions when selecting screws. Screws come in various types depending on the application and materials involved. Choosing the right screw is essential for secure fastening and preventing issues. Wood screws are designed for fastening wood. They have sharp tips and create their own threads in the wood as they’re driven in. Commonly used in DIY and furniture assembly. Selection Tip: Match the screw’s length and thickness to the hardness and thickness of the wood. Use thinner screws for softwoods and thicker ones for hardwoods. Tapping screws form threads in metal or plastic as they are driven in. They eliminate the need for pre-drilling, making them efficient for fast assembly. Selection Tip: Choose the appropriate type and size based on the material and thickness ...

What is the screw fastening force required for manufacturing? Basics of torque calculation

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  • April 03rd, 2025
What is the screw fastening force required for manufacturing? Basics of torque calculation
In the manufacturing industry, screw fastening is an essential process for ensuring product quality, safety, and reliability. Many products in our daily lives—such as automobiles, aircraft, home appliances, and buildings—are securely assembled using screws. Improper fastening can lead to product failure or accidents, potentially causing a serious loss of consumer trust. Screw fastening not only joins parts together but also significantly affects product performance and durability. For instance, if engine components in a car are not properly fastened, it could result in decreased performance or breakdowns. Similarly, improper fastening of structural parts in an aircraft could lead to serious accidents. This article explains the importance of screw fastening in manufacturing, the definition of fastening force, the basics of torque calculation, torque management methods, causes and countermeasures of fastening defects, latest fastening technologies, real-world application examples, and relevant standards. We hope this deepens your understanding and supports your daily operations. Fastening force refers to the clamping force generated between jointed components when a screw or bolt is tightened. This force is crucial for preventing loosening or breakage at the joint, thereby maintaining the product’s reliability. If the fastening force is insufficient, gaps may form at the joint, increasing the risk of loosening or damage due to vibration or impact. In the worst-case scenario, this could lead to system failure or accidents. On the other hand, excessive fastening force can deform or damage screws, bolts, or even the parts being joined—especially when fragile or thin materials are involved. Fastening force is influenced by various factors such as screw material, shape, surface treatment, lubrication condition, and tightening torque. For example, a higher coefficient of friction reduces fastening force for the same torque. The ideal fastening force also differs depending on the screw material. Understanding these variables and choosing the correct fastening method is critical to achieving appropriate fastening force. Properly managing fastening force improves product quality, ensures safety, and maintains long-term reliability. Appropriate fastening maximizes product performance and minimizes the risk of failures and accidents. Regular maintenance and inspections help preserve fastening conditions and extend the product’s lifespan. Torque and fastening force are closely related, making torque management essential. Torque is the rotational force around an axis and is what we apply when tightening a screw. Although fastening force is difficult to measure directly, it can be indirectly controlled by measuring torque. The basic formula for torque calculation is as follows: T = ...

Stainless steel, steel, and aluminum: How to choose screw materials according to their applications

  • Column
  • March 27th, 2025
Stainless steel, steel, and aluminum: How to choose screw materials according to their applications
Screws are essential components used to fasten objects in both our daily lives and industrial settings. They come in a wide variety, and selecting the optimal material according to the intended application significantly impacts product quality and durability. Among them, stainless steel, steel, and aluminum are the most commonly used screw materials. Each has unique properties and must be selected appropriately depending on the usage environment and purpose. In this article, we will explain in detail the characteristics, applications, and selection points of these screw materials. Choosing the right screw material requires careful consideration of the usage environment and purpose. Below is an overview of three typical screw materials—stainless steel, steel, and aluminum—and their basic characteristics. Stainless steel screws are known for their excellent corrosion resistance, making them ideal for use in humid or outdoor environments. They also offer good strength and heat resistance, allowing them to be used in a wide range of applications. Steel screws are valued for their high strength and cost performance. They are widely used in construction and machinery where strength is essential. However, they are prone to rust, so surface treatments may be required depending on the environment. Aluminum screws are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making them suitable for fields where weight reduction is important, such as in aerospace and electronic devices. Although they are not as strong as steel or stainless steel, they are highly recyclable. Property Stainless Steel Screws Steel Screws Aluminum Screws Strength High tensile strength and excellent durability. Types like SUS410 offer particularly high hardness. Non-alloy steel has moderate strength, while carbon steel and alloy steel offer very high strength. Lightweight but weaker than steel or stainless. Use aluminum alloys when higher strength is needed. Corrosion Resistance Outstanding corrosion resistance. SUS304 and SUS316 are highly rust-resistant, suitable for marine and chemical environments. Low corrosion resistance, but can be improved with zinc or chrome plating. High corrosion resistance; can be further enhanced with anodizing. Heat Resistance Excellent performance in high temperatures. SUS310S is especially heat-resistant and used in boilers and furnaces. Moderate heat resistance. Special alloy steels are needed for high-temperature environments. Low heat resistance, but some aluminum alloys can offer better performance. Weight Moderate. Lighter than steel but heavier than aluminum. Heaviest among the three. Extremely lightweight (about 1/3 the weight of steel). Workability Good workability, though it may gall under certain conditions. Good machinability. Higher carbon content increases hardness but ...

Complete guide to screw types and applications: Essential Knowledge for the Manufacturing Industry

  • Column
  • March 13th, 2025
Complete guide to screw types and applications: Essential Knowledge for the Manufacturing Industry
Screws are essential components found in virtually all products around us. They are widely used in construction, machinery, electronics, automobiles, furniture, and many other fields. Selecting the right screw directly affects the quality and safety of the product. However, because there are so many types of screws—each with specific uses and characteristics—choosing the appropriate one is not always easy. This article provides a comprehensive explanation of screw basics, types, materials, surface treatments, and applications. It also covers specialized screws and the latest technologies, offering knowledge that helps those in the manufacturing field make better decisions in selecting and utilizing screws. We hope that a deeper understanding of screws will lead to improved product design and quality control. A screw is a type of tool used to fasten objects together. By applying rotational force, it generates axial force to hold parts firmly. Most screws have spiral grooves on their outer surface known as threads, which create the fastening force. Screws are used extensively in fields such as construction, automobiles, machining, electronics, and furniture. The basic functions of screws include: Fastening: Securing multiple components together while allowing for disassembly and reassembly. Positioning: Maintaining the correct alignment between components. Power Transmission: Efficiently transmitting rotation or torque in mechanical systems. Additionally, unlike adhesives or welding, screws can be reused, making them an excellent fastening method for disassembly and reuse. There are many types of screws, classified by their application, shape, and function. Below are the major types and their characteristics: Bolts are commonly used with nuts and are ideal for situations that require strong fastening. Variants include hex bolts and flange bolts. Tapping screws are driven directly into pre-drilled materials, creating their own threads as they go. They are used for metals and plastics and help improve assembly efficiency. Designed for use with wood, these screws have pointed tips and coarse threads for easy embedding. They are typically tightened manually or with power tools. These are used to fasten parts in machinery and electronics. Some are paired with nuts, while others are threaded directly into tapped holes. Screws tailored for special purposes include: Torx Screws: Star-shaped slots reduce slippage and provide higher fastening strength. Cap Screws: Screws with a hexagonal recess, allowing secure tightening in narrow spaces. Sheet Metal Screws: Designed to be driven directly into thin metal sheets. As evident, there is a wide variety of screws, and proper selection according to purpose ...
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