Bolt Types and Uses: A Complete Guide to Common Bolts

Bolts are among the most essential and widely used fasteners in modern engineering and manufacturing. Each bolt type features its own structure, strength, and application. As a professional fastener manufacturer, Xinchi presents this comprehensive guide to bolt types and uses, helping you make informed choices—and showing why we’re the partner you can trust.

Some common types of bolts and their functions

Hex Head Bolts: Function and Applications

Hex head bolts are the most widely used bolt type, with a six-sided head ideal for wrench tightening.

Applications: Machinery, steel construction, automotive, general assembly.

Advantages: Uniform stress distribution, easy to install, reusable.

 

Allen (Hex Socket) Bolts: Features and Use

Allen bolts (or socket head bolts) have a recessed hex drive, perfect for space-constrained or flush-mounted applications.

Applications: Molds, precision equipment, furniture assembly.

Advantages: Compact appearance, high torque, reduced protrusion.

 

Flange Bolts: Structure and Strength

Flange bolts feature an integrated washer-like base to spread load and resist loosening.

Applications: Automotive, engines, heavy equipment.

Advantages: Time-saving, excellent anti-vibration properties, no separate washer required.

 

T Bolts: Ideal for Slot-Fit Systems

T bolts have a T-shaped head designed to slot into a channel and rotate to lock in place.

Applications: Solar panel frames, aluminum profiles, adjustable jigs.

Advantages: Tool-free positioning, versatile, quick installation.

 

U Bolts: Securing Round Components

U bolts are shaped like the letter “U” and are ideal for securing round items like pipes and rods.

Applications: Vehicles, pipelines, electrical installations.

Advantages: Strong clamping force, easy to assemble, great for circular structures.

 

Expansion Bolts: Anchoring to Solid Walls

Expansion bolts anchor themselves by expanding a sleeve within masonry or concrete.

Applications: Wall-mounted units, air conditioning, railings.

Advantages: Secure anchoring, no pre-embedded hardware, ideal for solid walls.

 

Anchor Bolts: Foundation and Structural Stability

Anchor bolts are embedded in concrete to support heavy structural loads.

Applications: Foundation fixing, heavy machinery, steel structures.

Advantages: Exceptional holding power, vibration-resistant, durable.

 

Stud Bolts: Dual-End Threading for Tight Spaces

Stud bolts are threaded rods with no head, used when frequent assembly/disassembly is needed.

Applications: Flange connections, engine blocks, industrial equipment.

Advantages: Compact, easy to replace, suited for high-load or limited-space areas.

 

Eye Bolts: Lifting and Suspension Use

Eye bolts have a looped head and are designed for lifting, securing, or guiding ropes and hooks.

Applications: Rigging, hoisting, marine and construction use.

Advantages: Safe for load-bearing, simple to use, highly visible and durable.

 

Slotted Bolts: Simple Use in Light-Duty Connections

Slotted bolts are simple bolts with a screwdriver slot, typically used in light-duty applications.

Applications: Electronics, home appliances, decorative fixtures.

Advantages: Fast assembly, low cost, suited for manual tools.

 

Why Xinchi Is Your Best Partner for All Bolt Types and Uses

As a professional bolt and fastener manufacturer, Xinchi is committed to providing reliable, high-quality products for diverse global industries. Here’s why customers around the world choose us:

• Complete Product Range: We supply a wide range of standard and custom bolts including hex bolts, T bolts, U bolts, anchor bolts, and more—perfect for construction, machinery, energy, furniture, and solar sectors.
• Stringent Quality Assurance: All Xinchi fasteners are rigorously tested and certified to meet ISO, CE, and RoHS standards, ensuring superior strength, consistency, and corrosion resistance.
• In-House Production & Fast Delivery: With our own manufacturing facilities and inventory systems, we offer rapid lead times, flexible customization, and stable long-term supply even for bulk or urgent orders.
• Engineering Support & Non-Standard Customization: Our experienced engineers provide technical consultation, structure optimization, and custom fastener solutions, helping customers save costs and improve performance.
• Global Market Expertise: Xinchi exports to Europe, North America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, offering multi-language service and streamlined logistics for efficient international cooperation.

Understanding Bolt Types and Uses Begins with a Reliable Supplier-Xinchi

Choosing the right bolt type is essential for performance, safety, and efficiency. Just as important is choosing a fastener supplier with proven capability and service.

As a trusted fastener supplier,  XINCHI can offer a wide range of high-quality fasteners, including nuts, screws, bolts, rivets, washers, etc. If you want to know more about fasteners or want to wholesale fasteners, please feel free to contact us. Our experienced and expert service team will reply as soon as possible. Let XINCHI support your production line with cost-effective and efficient fastener solutions!