Media Introduction
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- Column
- 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 = ...
- 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 ...
- 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 ...
- Column
- March 06th, 2025
- Differences between JIS and ISO screw standards- key points to avoid selection mistakes
- “Screws? Aren’t they all the same?” That’s what I used to think a few years ago when I first tried DIY. But when I went to buy screws, I was overwhelmed by the sheer variety. In reality, the world of screws is deep, with precise specifications for dimensions and materials defined by standards such as JIS and ISO. This article provides a beginner-friendly explanation of the fundamentals of screws. Screws are used in furniture, home appliances, automobiles, and many other products around us. Without screws, these products would fall apart. Screws are essential components for fastening and assembling, and standards are crucial to maintain the quality and safety of products. Without standards, screw dimensions and strength would vary, leading to issues during assembly or repair. JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) are standards used in Japan, while ISO (International Organization for Standardization) defines global standards. Although JIS references ISO, it has evolved independently to suit Japan’s industrial and technological landscape. Therefore, there are some differences between JIS and ISO screw standards. JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) was established to improve the quality and standardization of Japan’s industrial products and to support the development of domestic industries. On the other hand, ISO (International Organization for Standardization) aims to facilitate international trade and promote technological cooperation by establishing common global standards. While JIS is based on ISO, it features unique standards that reflect the specific needs and conditions of Japanese technologies and industries. The main differences between JIS and ISO screw standards can be seen in aspects such as dimensions, thread pitch, material, and strength. For example, screws with the same nominal diameter may have different pitches in JIS and ISO standards. Additionally, JIS includes some screw types that have been uniquely developed in Japan. When it comes to material and strength, JIS standards are often tailored to suit the environmental conditions within Japan, which may differ from those specified by ISO. For example, an M3 screw has a pitch of 0.6mm in JIS and 0.5mm in ISO. These differences in pitch mean they are not interchangeable. JIS also includes screws not found in ISO, such as certain small-sized screws. Using diagrams or comparison tables makes these differences easier to understand. Nominal Diameter JIS Pitch ISO Pitch M3 0.6mm 0.5mm M4 0.75mm 0.7mm M5 0.9mm 0.8mm As shown above, the pitches differ between JIS and ISO. “Huh? This screw doesn’t fit…” This is a common ...
- Column
- March 01st, 2025
- List of Characteristics of “Commonly Used Screws and Bolts”
- This article summarizes screws and bolts commonly used in general manufacturing sites, organizing their characteristics in an easy-to-understand format. Please use this as a practical reference list for everyone handling screws, including those in the manufacturing and construction industries. If you want to grasp the basics of screws and bolts thoroughly, start by checking the “Basic Knowledge of Screws and Bolts.” It explains essential information such as types of screws and how to read dimensions in a concise manner. Detailed information is available at the following link: URL: https://ohtavn.com/en/about-dealings/basic-knowledge/ Machine screws are widely used to fasten relatively small components such as machinery and electronic devices. They are designed to be screwed into pre-tapped holes and serve as versatile fastening parts in many applications. Main Features: Used mainly for components with pre-tapped holes; commonly used for fixing internal mechanisms or precision parts. Available in various head shapes (round, flat, bind, etc.), selectable based on application or appearance. Ideal for assembling small and lightweight parts such as industrial products and electronic devices. ▼Reference Article URL: https://ohtavn.com/en/media/what-is-machine-screw/ Built-in screws are supplied already attached to components during the product assembly process. They are integrated with housings or parts to prevent falling off or getting lost, contributing to improved manufacturing efficiency and maintenance. Main Features: Supplied in a state where the screw is pre-fixed to the component, contributing to efficient assembly processes. Prevents loss or dropping; widely used in precision equipment requiring safety and reliability. Does not fall off during disassembly or maintenance, making reuse easy. ▼Reference Article URL: https://ohtavn.com/en/media/what-is-built-in-screw/ Micro screws are extremely small screws with a diameter of less than 1mm, used to fasten micro parts in precision instruments and electronic components. They are adopted in fields requiring high processing accuracy and reliability and may require special fastening techniques. Main Features: Ultra-small size with a diameter of 1mm or less, ideal for fastening micro parts. Used in fields that demand high precision, such as watches, cameras, medical devices, and electronics. In some cases, dedicated tools and careful torque control are required for fastening. ▼Reference Article URL: https://ohtavn.com/en/media/what-is-micro-screw/ Drill screws have a drill-like tip that allows them to be driven directly into metal plates without pre-drilling. They are widely used on job sites where reduced work time and increased efficiency are required. Main Features: The drill-shaped tip enables direct fastening without the need for pre-drilled holes. Ideal for fast construction in metal sheets and ...
- Column
- February 20th, 2025
- Three recommended pumps from Japan Oil Pump, a Japanese manufacturer of all types of oil transfer!
- A must-see for manufacturers and other companies with oil-related equipment! Nippon Oil Pump, a manufacturer of liquid transport products with over 100 years of history, introduces three recommended products that can be obtained and maintained in Vietnam! ◆GCI (NOP FILTER PUMP) A space-saving coolant pump with filtration function This one unit can handle all your supply pumps, cyclone filters, line filters, and clean tanks! We have models available for a variety of capacities, so we will suggest a product that best suits your facility! Manufacturer website here >> (There is a YouTube video) ◆Trochoid/Trochoid® Pump Active in a wide range of fields, from machine tools to ships Trochoid® pumps are pumps that take in oil between external and internal gears and transfer it by rotating the gears. They have low wear, low noise and a long life. They are used in a wide range of fields, including transferring oil for cooling and lubrication in machine tools, transferring fuel in ships, factories and agricultural greenhouses, engine oil changers at gas stations, changing tempura oil in the food industry, and as a pump that transfers lubricating oil to the gears of wind power generation. [Applications] Construction machinery, industrial machinery, machine tools, food machinery, auto equipment, leisure facilities, environmental equipment, printing machines, ships, etc. For more detailed product information, please visit the Nippon Oil Pump website. Manufacturer website: >> ◆HPM/High pressure coolant pump A new high-pressure coolant pump. Please consider introducing this when you need even higher pressure! For more information, please refer to the manufacturer’s special flyer (English version) below. Click here for the product catalogue >> If there is a product you are interested in, please feel free to contact us. We will set up a meeting with a representative from the manufacturer. For inquiries regarding samples or materials, please respond to this email or contact our sales representative! At Ohta Vietnam, we not only provide ready-made products such as screws and bolts, but also support activities in the manufacturing field such as cutting, inspection, assembly, packaging… Our equipment list is here As a “specialized support” for the manufacturing industry in Asia. If you have any related questions, feel free to contact Ohta Vietnam for detailed support! URL: https://ohtavn.com/en/contact/
- Column
- February 15th, 2025
- What are Sheet Metal Screws? | Simple Explanation in 3 Minutes
- Sheet Metal Screws are screws designed to fasten thin metal sheets (sheet metal) and are primarily used in automobiles, construction, home appliances, and more. These screws create and secure holes by being directly screwed into the sheet metal. In some cases, pilot holes may be drilled, but self-tapping types that do not require a pilot hole are generally more common. Sheet metal screws are designed with a sharp tip and deep threads, allowing them to easily penetrate thin metal sheets. To enhance durability and rust resistance, they are often made of zinc-plated or stainless steel materials. Additionally, they are designed to resist loosening, making them highly resistant to vibrations and impacts. Common screw heads include flat head and truss head, selected based on the application. Self-tapping function eliminates the need for pilot holes. Anti-rust processing (such as zinc plating and stainless steel materials) improves durability. Provides strong fastening power resistant to vibrations and impacts. The primary role of sheet metal screws is to securely fasten thin metal sheets to each other or to other materials such as plastic or wood. With their self-tapping ability, they create holes while fastening, simplifying the assembly process. This significantly improves work efficiency. Sheet metal screws not only firmly secure metal sheets but also streamline the assembly process by performing drilling and fastening simultaneously. They also provide high durability in environments subject to frequent vibrations and impacts, ensuring stability after assembly. Furthermore, when pilot holes are unnecessary, they contribute to reducing assembly costs. Self-tapping function eliminates the need for pilot holes. Anti-rust processing (such as zinc plating and stainless steel materials) improves durability. Provides strong fastening power resistant to vibrations and impacts. Sheet metal screws come in various types, including tapping screws and self-drilling screws (drill screws), chosen based on the application and environment. They are available in different shapes such as flat head, truss head, and rust-resistant variants. – Tapping Screws Directly screwed into sheet metal. – Self-Drilling Screws (Drill Screws) Drill-shaped tip eliminates the need for a pilot hole. – Flat Head Screws Ideal for applications requiring a flush finish. – Truss Head Screws Ensures stability with a broad contact surface. – Rust-Resistant Screws Processed for use in outdoor or high-humidity environments. If you have any questions about samples or materials, please reply to this email or consult with our sales representatives! At Ohta Vietnam, we offer services ranging from the sale of ...
- Column
- February 05th, 2025
- What is a Nut? | Simple Explanation in 3 Minutes
- A nut is a component used in combination with screws (such as bolts and stud bolts) to secure materials. It typically has a hexagonal shape with internal threading (female thread) and, when used with bolts or screws, ensures a firm fastening of components. A nut is a component with internal threading (female thread) that is used together with bolts and stud bolts. The most common shape is hexagonal, designed for easy tightening and loosening with tools. Nuts are made from materials such as iron, stainless steel, aluminum, and brass, with additional plating or coatings to enhance durability and corrosion resistance. Some nuts are specially designed to prevent loosening or to improve aesthetics for specific applications. Nuts are used in various fields, such as construction for securing beams and columns, machinery for fastening parts, and automobiles or aircraft where resistance to vibration and pressure is crucial. They are also widely used in furniture assembly and DIY projects. Depending on the application, nuts come in different sizes and shapes for securing bolts in public infrastructure and assembling precision instruments. The primary function of a nut is to work with bolts and screws to securely fasten materials. By interlocking the male thread of the bolt with the female thread of the nut, it creates a strong fastening that withstands vibrations and external forces. Using a nut allows for repeated tightening and loosening of fastening points, making assembly and maintenance easier. In many cases, spring washers or lock nuts are used alongside nuts to prevent loosening. There are various types of nuts. The most common is the hex nut, which is used in a wide range of applications. Lock nuts help prevent loosening due to vibrations or shocks, while flange nuts distribute pressure over a wider contact area. Cap nuts, which have a closed top, are chosen for their appearance and safety. Additionally, there are wing nuts that can be tightened by hand, slotted nuts for specialized applications, and tamper-resistant nuts designed for security purposes. Each type of nut has unique characteristics suited to different environments, ensuring safety and efficiency in fastening. ・Hex Nut A standard nut widely used in mechanical and construction applications. ・Lock Nut A specialized nut designed to prevent loosening due to vibrations (e.g., nylon insert nuts). ・Flange Nut A nut with a flange (disc-shaped protrusion) at one end, providing a wider contact surface. ・Cap Nut A nut with a closed ...
- Column
- February 03rd, 2025
- What is a Thumb Screw? | Simple Explanation in 3 Minutes
- A thumb screw is a type of screw designed to be easily tightened or loosened by hand without the use of tools. Its head is shaped for easy gripping, allowing it to be turned with minimal effort. As a result, it is commonly used in situations where frequent adjustments, fastening, or removal of machine components are required. A thumb screw is a type of screw with a head specifically designed for easy tightening and loosening by hand. Generally, it can be operated by simply turning it with fingers without the need for tools, making it a highly convenient screw for manual adjustments. Common types of thumb screws include wing nuts and wing bolts. Below are the main features of thumb screws: Operable by hand: As the name suggests, thumb screws can be grasped and operated using fingers. They do not require tools, allowing users to tighten or loosen them manually. Head shape: The head of a thumb screw is typically large and flat, making it easy to grip securely. This allows for effortless application of force and simple operation. Variety of sizes and shapes: Thumb screws are available in various sizes, thread types, and head shapes. This enables users to select the most suitable option based on specific requirements. Thumb screws are commonly used in lighting fixtures, furniture, office equipment, and signage, especially in locations where screws are frequently attached and removed. As mentioned earlier, thumb screws eliminate the need for wrenches or spanners, enhancing work efficiency and making them widely used in consumer products. Since thumb screws can be operated manually, they are valuable in various scenarios requiring fine adjustments or frequent access. Different shapes, sizes, and materials are available depending on the intended application. Electronic devices: Thumb screws are used as fasteners for opening and closing electronic device cases and covers. They are also utilized in rack-mounted equipment and panel installations. Industrial equipment setup and adjustments: Thumb screws are employed in the setup and adjustment of industrial machinery and manufacturing equipment. They help fine-tune machine operations or align with specific production requirements. Vehicles and automobiles: Thumb screws may be used to secure components in vehicles, such as engine covers, battery covers, and air cleaners in cars and motorcycles. Construction industry: Thumb screws are used in construction projects for equipment adjustments and securing metal panels. If you have any questions about samples or materials, please reply to this email ...
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- January 25th, 2025
- What is a Washer? | Simple Explanation in 3 Minutes
- A washer is a thin, circular or square-shaped metal component placed under the head of a screw, bolt, or nut during fastening. Commonly referred to as a “washer,” it is used to prevent friction between parts, reduce loosening, and distribute pressure. Washers are made in various shapes and materials, selected based on their intended application. Washers are used when fastening components with screws or bolts. Common types include flat washers, which protect the fastening surface from damage, and spring washers, which help prevent loosening of screws and bolts. Washers are primarily used to prevent the loosening of screws. Because washers have a larger surface area than screws or bolts, they help stabilize the contact surface, prevent loosening, and enhance airtightness. One of the main roles of washers is to reduce the pressure applied to components. Since washers distribute the pressure of screws and bolts over a larger surface area, they help prevent dents and damage to materials. This is particularly useful when working with soft materials or small contact areas, as washers improve the stability of connections. There are various types of washers, each suited to different materials and situations. While JIS standards define washer sizes, custom washers with specific outer diameters and thicknesses can also be produced to accommodate different applications. Below are some of the commonly used washer types: ・Flat Washer A flat washer with a simple shape, typically referred to as just a washer. It is available in different materials, including iron and stainless steel. ・Spring Washer A washer with a cut and an uneven shape. The uneven edge grips the material, helping to prevent loosening of screws and bolts. ・Toothed Washer A washer with sharp teeth on its inner or outer edges. The teeth bite into the material, enhancing resistance against loosening. This type is commonly used in automobiles, electrical appliances, and precision machinery. There are many other types of washers, each with unique characteristics. Choosing the right washer for the intended purpose is essential. For inquiries regarding samples or materials, please respond to this email or contact our sales representative! At Ohta Vietnam, we not only provide ready-made products such as screws and bolts, but also support activities in the manufacturing field such as cutting, inspection, assembly, packaging… Our equipment list is here As a “specialized support” for the manufacturing industry in Asia. If you have any related questions, feel free to contact Ohta Vietnam ...