What are T-Slot Nuts?
T-slot nuts are low-profile, rectangular nuts designed to slide into a machine table’s T-slot and provide a strong, adjustable anchor point for studs, clamps, and workholding fixtures. Unlike wood “T-nuts,” machine T-slot nuts fit metal T-slots on mills, drill presses, and fixturing plates to secure setups without drilling new holes.
Why choose USA-made T-Slot Nuts
- Drop-forged strength for reliable clamping under high loads
- Consistent dimensions for smooth sliding and positive seating in the slot
- Imperial threads (UNC) to match common studs and clamping kits
- Made in the USA by Ken Forging for dependable quality and availability
Key features of our T-Slot Nuts
- Forged carbon steel bodies with durable, shop-ready finish
- Shoulder height optimized to sit flush and maximize thread engagement
- Chamfered corners for easy insertion and movement along the slot
- UNC-2B internal threads for secure connection to studs and clamps
Common applications for T-Slot Nuts
- General workholding on milling machine tables and vises
- Fixture plates, drill press tables, and inspection setups
- Securing step blocks, strap clamps, toe clamps, and stops
- Repeatable positioning for short-run and production jobs
How to size a T-Slot Nut
- Match the T-slot width: choose the nut series for your table’s T-slot (e.g., 5/8 in, 3/4 in)
- Pick the thread: select the UNC thread that fits your studs and clamps
- Check length and shoulder height: verify the body length and shoulder height sit below the slot lips without binding
- Plan load path: use the shortest stud and keep clamps level to maximize clamping force
Installation tips for T-Slot Nuts
- Clean chips from the slot before sliding the nut into position
- Keep the nut fully under the slot lips; do not clamp on the slot edges
- Use flat, parallel clamping hardware to avoid side-loading the nut
- Re-torque studs after a light cut—initial seating can relax slightly
T-Slot Nuts vs. wood T-nuts
Machine T-slot nuts slide inside metal T-slots and carry high clamp loads with strap clamps and studs. Wood T-nuts press into wood with prongs and are not interchangeable with machine-tool T-slot hardware.
Compatibility and best practices
- Pair with strap clamps, step blocks, toe clamps, and fixture studs from your clamping kit
- Use matching imperial threads for proper engagement
- Inspect nuts and studs for wear or thread damage before reuse
FAQs about T-Slot Nuts
What size T-slot nut do I need for my machine table?
Match the nut to the table’s T-slot width first (for example, 5/8 in or 3/4 in), then choose the thread that fits your studs. Check the nut length and shoulder height to ensure it slides freely and seats below the slot lips.
Can I use these T-slot nuts with step blocks and strap clamps?
Yes. They are intended to work with studs, step blocks, toe/strap clamps, and stops commonly found in clamping kits.
Are these T-slot nuts compatible with metric hardware?
Our catalog lists imperial (UNC) threads. Use imperial studs and clamps for best results. If you need metric, contact us for options.
How tight should I torque a clamping stud into a T-slot nut?
Tighten only with the stud and clamp installed and aligned. Follow the clamp or stud manufacturer’s torque guidance and recheck after a light cut.
What material are your T-slot nuts made from?
Drop-forged carbon steel, manufactured in the USA for shop durability and high clamp loads.
Do T-slot nuts require maintenance?
Keep slots clean, inspect threads for wear, and lightly oil threads to reduce galling and extend service life.