10 Questions You Should to Know about U Bolt Supplier

08 Sep.,2025

 

Top 10 Questions Every Fastener Buyer Should Know - Big Bolt

Fasteners come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and finishes and each one can be used for a variety of applications. To help you navigate the complex world of specialty fasteners, we have put together a list of the most commonly asked questions from fastener buyers.

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1. What is the difference between a bolt and a screw? 

This is a very common question, as the terms are often used interchangeably. In general, bolts are intended to be used with a nut to fasten two components together, while screws are designed to thread into a tapped hole. However, a screw can be used as a bolt with a nut, while a bolt may not always be suitable as a screw. The distinction lies in their intended use and manufacturing tolerances.

2. What are the most common fastener materials and finishes? 

Fasteners are typically made from various materials, including steel, stainless steel, and aluminum, each with different strength and corrosion resistance properties. They also come in various finishes, such as zinc plating, hot-dip galvanizing, and PTFE coatings, which provide additional protection against corrosion.

3. What is the difference between coarse and fine threads? 

Understanding thread series is crucial, as it influences the fastener's strength, assembly process, and resistance to loosening. Coarse threads (UNC) have fewer threads per inch than fine threads (UNF), making them suitable for rapid assembly in construction due to their resistance to damage and compatibility with thicker coatings. Fine threads, however, are preferred in applications demanding strength and vibration resistance, like automotive and machinery.

4. What are the different types of mechanical anchors and when should I use them? 

Mechanical anchors are used to connect materials to concrete and masonry. The provided sources highlight several types, including wedge anchors, sleeve anchors, masonry screws, screw bolts, drop-in anchors, and Sammy's®. Each type has specific applications and benefits, and understanding their differences is crucial for making the right choice. For example, drop-in anchors require a separate setting tool for installation.

5. What is the significance of grade markings on fasteners? 

Grade markings indicate the tensile strength of a fastener. For instance, SAE Grade 5 fasteners have three radial lines on the head, while Grade 8 fasteners have six radial lines. Metric fasteners use property classes like 8.8, 10.9, and 12.9, directly indicating the tensile strength in megapascals (MPa).

6. What type of nut should I use with a particular bolt? 

Choosing the correct nut for a bolt is vital for ensuring a secure and reliable connection. The sources emphasize nut compatibility, highlighting that specific nut grades are designed for particular bolt grades. For example, ASTM A193 Grade B7 studs should always be paired with A194 Grade 2H heavy hex nuts.

7. How do I determine the correct length of an all-thread stud? 

There are two ways to measure the length of an all-thread stud: overall length and first thread to first thread. Continuous thread studs are measured from extreme end to extreme end, including the chamfer, while flange type studs are measured from the first fully formed thread to the next to last fully formed thread, excluding the chamfer.

8. What are Rivnuts, and how are they used? 

Rivnuts, also known as rivet nuts, are threaded inserts installed into thin materials to provide a strong threaded connection point. They are typically used in applications where access is limited to one side of the material, such as paneling in truck trailers.

9. What is a structural bolt? 

Structural bolts are heavy hex bolts with a full body diameter and a shorter thread length than a standard hex bolt.

10. What is an anchor bolt? 

Anchor bolts usually secure a steel structure to concrete.  One end is submerged in concrete while the threaded portion is above the surface. Available anchor bolt grades are typically 35, 55 and 105.

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U-Bolt 101: The Simple Facts - Pipe Supports

U-bolts may seem simple. After all, they’re just a bent piece of steel, right? Don’t let their simplicity fool you, U-bolts can be the difference between solid structures and on-site disasters.

It’s easy to overlook these important restraints, but we’re here to deliver the must-knows. We’ve ironed out the essentials of these small workhorses. 

Read on for a guide to U-bolts and the simple facts surrounding these compact difference makers.

What Is a U-Bolt?

When you break it down, a U-bolt is a bolt bent into the shape of the letter “u.” It’s a curved bolt that features threads on each end. Because the bolt is curved, it fits nicely around pipes or tubing. That means U-bolts can secure piping or tubes to a support and work as a restraint.

Are you interested in learning more about U Bolt Supplier? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

When to Use a U-Bolt

U-bolts are a jack-of-all-trades in construction. They can have a wide range of applications, but they can be lifesavers when it comes to piping solutions. Here are common ways they’re used in piping:

As a Restraint and Guide

U-bolts can work as a tube or pipe restraint. That means they keep piping from moving, banging into other structures, and wearing down. 

However, restraining pipes is about more than pinning them down. In some cases, simply holding down piping can lead to corrosion at the point where pressure is most focused. When used as a guide instead, the U-bolt controls movement without pressing vibrations into a concentrated point. This means pipes can move axially, or through the pipe restraint, but won’t bounce up and down. 

For Shipping

U-bolts can also be a useful way to keep pipes snug during shipping. Rather than letting pipes hop up and down and break, the U-bolt can restrain pipes while adding a buffer between the pipes and other metals.

For Elevating Pipes

Finally, a major use of U-bolts is for hanging pipes. Gravity can be hard on piping, and the wrong setup can lead to corrosion and falling objects. By securing a U-bolt to an overhead structure, beam, or ceiling, you can limit vibrations and secure elevated pipes.

U-Bolt Makeup

U-bolts can be made up of all kinds of materials. But they’re usually made of durable metal that is noncorrosive. Here are some common materials at the heart of U-bolts:

  • Plain carbon steel
  • 304 stainless steel
  • 316 stainless steel

On top of these common core elements, manufacturers can add protective coatings. These finishes protect against corrosion even more. Here are some common coatings for U-bolts:

Zinc Plating 

Zinc plating is where zinc is added using a layer of electricity. It’s usually a thinner layer that works better for indoor applications. 

Hot-Dip Galvanization

Hot-dip galvanization adds zinc, but it’s a deeper coating. Manufacturers dunk the bolt in molten zinc to form a bond, which makes the coating especially well-suited for corrosive environments such as areas with high humidity or salt in the air.

Fluoropolymer (Xylan, Teflon, or PTFE) Coating 

A fluoropolymer coating is a mixture of elements that are resistant to corrosion. The coating can hold up in extreme hot and cold temperatures without cracking. 

Thermoplastic Coating

The first benefit of adding a thermoplastic coating to U-bolts is the added buffer between metals. Metal-on-metal contact can lead to galvanic corrosion and broken structures. A thermoplastic coating adds a protective neutral layer between the pipe and the restraint.

The coating also has a low coefficient of friction, which means it lets piping glide through the U-bolt, while cradling the pipe at the same time. This reduces the risk of broken pipes, restraints, or support structures.

U-Bolt Measurements

Although sizing can vary, U-bolts tend to be matched up with the size of the pipes they’re meant to secure. Bolts can run anywhere from a quarter of an inch to a full inch in rod size. And they can hold piping as wide as 30 inches. Here’s a look at how a U-bolt size matches up with piping.

How to Install U-Bolts

Of course, like any restraint, a U-bolt is only as good as its installation. Here is how to install a U-bolt properly:

  1. Remove both nuts from each side of the U-bolt
  2. Place the U-bolt around the pipe you’re attaching and thread the bolt’s ends through the holes in your support beam or structure.
  3. Thread the nuts on each outer end of the bolt.
  4. Hand-tighten the nuts that are closest to the support beam.
  5. Tighten the outer nuts on each end of the U-bolt and use a power tool or wrench to tighten the nuts.

If you’re using the U-bolt as a guide, make sure to measure spacing to fit its specifications before tightening nuts.

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