Fasteners are one of the smallest pieces in your shop, but they play a huge role. Choosing the right fastener is critical in getting the job done right, but when you're working under pressure, it can be easy to overlook the small details that make a big difference.
Using the wrong fastener can lead to failures, downtime and unnecessary repairs. That’s why knowing which fastener to use can save you time, money and headaches down the road.
At Kimball Midwest, we carry a wide range of fasteners to choose from. Before you select just any fastener, though, it’s important to know the application in which it is used. From there, you can determine the correct grade and material of fastener to use.
Here’s a breakdown to help you select the best option for your next project.
When you need a step up in strength but you don’t need maximum durability, Grade 5 fasteners are a great solution.
Grade 5 is perfect for medium-strength applications where reliability is key without overengineering the solution. They are commonly used for vehicles, machinery and other low stress applications. They have a minimum tensile strength of 120,000 psi.
For high-strength fastening applications, Grade 8 fasteners are a must. These are engineered for the most demanding jobs on your equipment, machinery and vehicles. They are best to use in high-stress applications, like in heavy machinery. Grade 8 fasteners have a minimum tensile strength of 150,000 psi.
At Kimball Midwest, we offer our KM-USA Grade 8 fasteners, which are made in the USA. The cap screws feature a 20 percent higher head, which allows for an increased wrenching surface. Less slipping means easier tightening for you. KM-USA Grade 8 fasteners provide performance and peace of mind when safety and reliability are important with your critical, high-strength fastening assemblies.
When you’re working in extreme conditions and need an extra margin of safety and performance, L9 fasteners provide the highest strength off-the-shelf fastening system available. They feature a tensile strength of 180,000 to 200,000 psi.
This system is ideal for critical, high-stress applications where consistent holding power is non-negotiable.
Metric Fasteners
Do you work with machinery or vehicles that use metric fasteners? If so, you’ll need reliable products on hand to repair them.
The most common types of metric fasteners are class 8.8 and 10.9. When it comes to 10.9 metric fasteners, they are equivalent to Grade 8 fasteners in strength. Meanwhile, 8.8 metric fasteners are equivalent to Grade 5.
Stainless Steel Fasteners
Depending on the environment you will be using a fastener in, you may opt for stainless steel fasteners. In highly corrosive environments like marine, food processing or chemical plants, corrosion is something to consider.
Corrosion is one of the most common causes of fastener system failures and downtime. Stainless steel fasteners offer superior corrosion resistance when compared with plated steel components.
There are two primary types of stainless steel fasteners that are used: 316 and 18-8. They have a similar tensile strength of 75,000 psi, but the 316 fasteners have a higher tolerance to corrosion compared to the 18-8.
For instance, 316 fasteners are ideal for harsh chemical and saltwater environments, while 18-8 fasteners are good for general-purpose corrosion resistance in kitchens, plumbing and water treatment applications.
Selecting the right fastener for the job at hand can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. Remember to consider factors such as the environment the fastener will be used in, as well as the application. Also, always match the nut to the bolt grade. A higher-grade bolt paired with a lower-grade nut weakens the whole assembly. The fastening joint is only as strong as the weakest component. Selecting the right fastener ensures maximum performance, safety and reliability.
Ready to find the right fastener for your next project? Reach out to your Kimball Midwest sales representative to get started. If you don’t already have a rep, we can help you