Aluminum Fasteners

Understanding Aluminum Fasteners

aluminium washer, nut and bolt

Aluminum fasteners offer an exceptional combination of light weight and corrosion resistance, making them ideal for a wide range of applications. Our selection of aluminum fasteners includes essential components for automotive, aerospace, marine, and general construction use.

Our Aluminum Fastener Selection

  1. Aluminum Bolts: Available in various sizes and thread patterns, our aluminum hex bolts provide strength with minimal weight, perfect for applications where every gram counts.
  2. Aluminum Nuts: Complement your aluminum bolts with our matching nuts, ensuring consistent performance and corrosion resistance throughout your assembly.
  3. Aluminum Screws: From self-tapping to machine screws, our aluminum screw selection offers versatility for a variety of fastening needs.
  4. Aluminum Washers: Our flat aluminum washers help distribute load and prevent galvanic corrosion when used with other aluminum fasteners.
  5. Aluminum Rivets: Perfect for permanent fastenings in lightweight structures, our aluminum rivets provide a secure, corrosion-resistant bond.
  6. Aluminum Threaded Rod: Ideal for custom-length fastening solutions, our aluminum threaded rod is available in various diameters and thread pitches.

Advantages of Aluminum Fasteners

  • Lightweight: Approximately one-third the weight of steel, ideal for weight-sensitive applications
  • Excellent corrosion resistance, particularly in non-marine environments
  • Good strength-to-weight ratio, offering structural integrity with minimal mass
  • Non-magnetic properties, suitable for use near sensitive electronic equipment
  • Electrical conductivity, useful for certain grounding applications
  • Attractive appearance with a natural silver finish

Common Applications for Aluminum Fasteners

  • Aerospace and aviation industries
  • Automotive manufacturing and customization
  • Marine hardware (for freshwater applications)
  • General construction and DIY projects
  • Electrical installations
  • Signage and display manufacturing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are aluminum fasteners as strong as steel fasteners?

While aluminum fasteners are not as strong as steel, they offer an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. For applications where weight is a critical factor, aluminum fasteners can provide sufficient strength with significantly less mass.

Can aluminum fasteners be used in marine environments?

Aluminum fasteners are suitable for freshwater applications, but for saltwater environments, stainless steel or specialized marine-grade fasteners are generally recommended due to their superior corrosion resistance in highly saline conditions.

What's the difference between aluminum hex bolts and aluminum hex cap screws?

While often used interchangeably, hex bolts typically have a shorter threaded portion and are used with nuts, while hex cap screws are usually fully threaded and can be driven directly into threaded holes. Both are available in our aluminum fastener range.

Are aluminum threaded rods easy to cut to custom lengths?

Yes, aluminum threaded rods are relatively easy to cut to custom lengths using a hacksaw or bolt cutter. After cutting, it's advisable to clean up the cut end with a file to remove any burrs and ensure smooth thread engagement.