Metric vs Imperial Flange Nuts: What Buyers Should Know

Flange nuts are commonly used in machinery, automotive parts, furniture, and industrial equipment. When choosing a flange nut, it is important to make sure it matches the bolt or stud. Metric and imperial flange nuts use different thread measurement systems. As a professional flange nut manufacturer, Xinchi Fastener Factory takes a closer look at the key differences below.

Flange Nuts

Metric Flange Nut Sizes

Metric flange nuts use millimeters to specify thread diameter and pitch. Common sizes include M6, M8, M10, and M12.

For example, an M8 flange nut has a nominal thread diameter of 8 mm. Buyers should also check the thread pitch, as the same diameter can be available with different thread pitches.

Flange Nuts

Imperial Flange Nut Sizes

Imperial flange nuts use inch-based measurements. Common sizes include 1/4″, 5/16″, 3/8″, and 1/2″.

Based on the inch-to-millimeter conversion, these sizes have nominal diameters of approximately 6.35 mm, 7.94 mm, 9.53 mm, and 12.70 mm, respectively. These values are only dimensional conversions and should not be treated as equivalent metric thread sizes.

Flange Nuts

Metric vs Imperial Flange Nut Threads

Metric and imperial flange nuts can have similar nominal diameters, but this does not mean they can be used interchangeably. The thread pitch, thread type, and matching bolt or stud also need to be checked.

For example, an imperial flange nut may have a diameter close to a metric size, but the threads can still be different. Buyers should always confirm the complete thread specification before placing an order.

Flange Nuts

How to Choose the Right Metric Flange Nut

When ordering a metric flange nut, first confirm the thread size and pitch. The material and surface finish should then be selected according to the application.

Carbon steel flange nuts are commonly used for general applications, while stainless steel can be considered when better corrosion resistance is needed. Other specifications, such as flange diameter, nut height, and strength grade, should also be confirmed when required.

Flange Nuts

Metric Flange Nuts from Xinchi Fastener Factory

Xinchi Fastener Factory was established in 2007 and has 102 cold heading machines, with a daily production capacity of more than 10 million pieces.

Xinchi Fastener Factory

The completed new factory covers 30,000 square meters and includes two six-story buildings. Xinchi Fastener Factory supplies flange nuts, DIN1624 T nuts, thread insert nuts, Hopper Feed T nuts, rivet nuts, wing nuts, DIN 571 wood screws, bolts, washers, and other fastener products and other fasteners in different sizes, materials, and specifications according to customer requirements.