Rods, Studs & Keystock
What are Rods, Studs & Keystock?
Threaded rod is fully threaded bar used with nuts and washers for anchoring, hanging, and general fabrication when you can access both ends. Studs are shorter pieces of threaded rod used as permanent or removable fasteners in tapped holes or through-holes. Keystock is square or rectangular bar used to machine keys that lock hubs to shafts in power-transmission assemblies.
Which grade should I choose for threaded rod?
- ASTM A307 (low carbon): general construction, light to medium duty.
- Alloy or higher strength grades: use when a specification calls for higher tensile properties or structural performance.
304 vs 316 stainless, which is right?
- 304 stainless: common corrosion resistance for most indoor and many outdoor uses.
- 316 stainless: better resistance in chloride or marine environments. Pick when salt, chemicals, or de-icing agents are present.
Hot-dip galvanized or zinc plated?
- Hot-dip galvanized: thicker zinc for durable outdoor protection. Nuts are typically tapped oversize for coating thickness.
- Zinc plated: thin electroplated coating for indoor service or low exposure areas.
What lengths are available and can rod be cut?
Common stock lengths include 3 ft, 6 ft, and 10 to 12 ft. Rod can be cut to size. After cutting, clean up the ends with a die or thread file so nuts start smoothly.
How do I select the right size and thread?
- Diameter: match load requirements and mating hardware.
- Thread series: UNC for most general applications, UNF for finer adjustment, 8UN for large diameters.
- Strength: follow the job specification for grade and proof load.
Where are threaded rods and studs used?
- HVAC hangers, pipe supports, cable trays, and lighting
- Concrete embeds, equipment anchoring, and bracing (with specified hardware)
- Panels, racking, and general fabrication
- Engines and machinery where studs provide repeatable assembly
When should I use a stud instead of a bolt?
- Frequent disassembly where a stud reduces thread wear in the base material
- Thermal cycling that benefits from more uniform load distribution
- Tight clearances where a bolt head would interfere
How to install threaded studs
- Identify the permanent end and apply the correct thread locker if required by spec.
- Use the double-nut method on the exposed end to drive the stud to depth without damaging threads.
- Remove the jam nuts and assemble components with washers and nuts to the specified torque.
Keystock basics and selection
- Purpose: machine to size for keys that transmit torque between shaft and hub.
- Profiles: square or rectangular bars in common inch sizes.
- Fit: select material and tolerance that match the shaft and keyway; finish to a sliding fit that seats fully without rocking.
- Materials: carbon steel for general use, stainless for corrosion resistance, brass/bronze for non-sparking or decorative applications.
Surface finishes
- Plain/uncoated: ready for post-finish or dry indoor use.
- Zinc plated: economical indoor corrosion protection.
- Hot-dip galvanized: thicker zinc for outdoor exposure.
- Stainless: corrosion resistant without added coating.
Troubleshooting & tips
- Nuts bind on cut ends: chase threads with a die, remove burrs, and apply light oil.
- Visible rust in harsh areas: step up to hot-dip galvanized or 316 stainless as required.
- Stud backs out during service: verify proper engagement depth and use thread locker or prevailing-torque nuts per specification.
- Key rocks in keyway: adjust the keystock to a proper fitted width and height, ensuring full contact.
Why buy Rods, Studs & Keystock from AlbanyCountyFasteners.com
- Range of materials including carbon steel, stainless, and nonferrous options
- Popular lengths with cut-to-length options on request
- Finishes for indoor, outdoor, and marine environments
- USA-based support for sizing, grades, and installation guidance
Use A307 (low-carbon) for general construction unless a higher-strength grade is specifically called out by the design or code.
Choose 316 for chloride or marine exposure. 304 is suitable for many other indoor and outdoor environments.
Hot-dip galvanized has a thicker coating for durable outdoor protection. Zinc plated is thinner and best for indoor, low-exposure areas.
Common stock includes 3 ft, 6 ft, and 10–12 ft pieces. Rod can be cut; after cutting, clean up threads so nuts start smoothly. We also offer custom cutting services! Please see our custom cutting service page for more information.
Use studs when repeated assembly would wear the base material, when clearances are tight, or when more uniform load distribution is needed.
Use the double-nut method to drive the stud to depth, then remove the nuts and assemble your hardware to the specified torque.
Keystock is machined into keys that lock a hub to a shaft to transmit torque in pulleys, gears, and couplings.