Differences Between Bolts and Nuts

Bolts and nuts are common fasteners that are often used together, but they have distinct functions and structures. As a professional fastener manufacturer, XINCHI is pleased to share the main differences between bolts and nuts.

1. Definition

• Bolt: A fastener with external threads, typically used with a nut to connect two or more components.
• Nut: A fastener with internal threads, usually screwed onto a bolt to secure multiple parts together.

2. Appearance

• Bolt: Generally consists of a threaded rod and a head. The rod has external threads, and the head can be hexagonal, round, or other shapes to facilitate tightening with a wrench or tool.
• Nut: Typically a polygonal (often hexagonal) metal block with internal threads, designed to be screwed onto a bolt.

3. Function

• Bolt: Mainly used for fastening. It passes through a pre-drilled hole and is tightened with a nut to achieve secure fastening.
• Nut: Works in conjunction with a bolt to provide clamping force and prevent the connected parts from loosening.

4. Usage

• Bolt: Usually used with a nut but can also be screwed directly into a pre-threaded hole.
• Nut: Must be used with a bolt or threaded rod to function properly; it cannot be used alone.

5. Material & Strength

• To ensure connection stability, bolts and nuts are usually made of the same material, such as carbon steel, stainless steel, copper, or alloy steel.
• Strength grades must be matched. For example, high-strength bolts require high-strength nuts to prevent connection failure.

6. Common Types

• Bolts: Hex bolts, countersunk bolts, double-ended bolts, U-bolts, etc.
• Nuts: Hex nuts, flange nuts, nylon lock nuts, wing nuts, etc.

7. Disassembly & Maintenance

• Once bolted and tightened, bolts and nuts can usually be removed with tools such as wrenches, making them suitable for structures that require frequent assembly and disassembly.
• Locking mechanisms like lock nuts, spring washers, or thread-locking adhesives can be used to prevent loosening.

XINCHI is a trustworthy fastener company, especially in furniture nuts. We have a factory,  founded in 2007. We are the designated fastener supplier to“STAPLE”. 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. And then our experienced and expert service team will reply to you as soon as possible.