Flat Head Carriage Bolts: The Unsung Heroes of Hardware
Hardware is often an overlooked aspect of construction projects. That is until something goes wrong. Every part needs to be strong, durable, and installed correctly to ensure the safety of the structure. One such component that is essential to a solid foundation are flat head carriage bolts made of zinc-plated steel. These bolts are often unappreciated, yet they play a crucial role in ensuring the stability of a project.
What are Flat Head Carriage Bolts?
Flat head carriage bolts are a type of bolt that has a flat head and is commonly used to fasten wood and other materials together. They are distinguishable from other bolts due to their unique square-shaped neck directly below the head. The square neck fits snugly into square holes in the attached material, preventing the bolt from turning while the nut is being tightened.
Benefits of Zinc Plated Steel Bolts
Flat head carriage bolts are commonly made from zinc-plated steel. The zinc coat provides an additional layer of protection to the steel, making it resistant to rust and corrosion. This makes them ideal for outdoor construction projects that require extra durability.
Zinc plated bolts are also preferred in situations where there is a need for galvanic protection or for electrical grounding. Zinc plating can slow down the corrosion process experienced in contrast with iron or steel that will typically rust more quickly.
Flat Head Carriage Bolts vs. Hex Bolts
Flat head carriage bolts are often compared to hex bolts due to their similar uses. However, there are significant differences between them. One such distinction is that the square neck of flat head carriage bolts helps in keeping the bolt in place during installation. This distinct feature is handy because it leaves both hands of the installer free to tighten the hex nut securely. In contrast, hex bolts require the use of a wrench on both sides during installation, making the process more tedious.
Wing and Hex Nuts
Another significant difference between flat head carriage bolts and hex bolts is the type of nuts used. Flat head carriage bolts use either a wing nut or a hex nut. A wing nut has two large metal "wings" on either side that allows the nut to be tightened or loosened by hand. Wing nuts are used in applications where frequent adjustments are required. Hex nuts, on the other hand, have six sides and are preferred in situations where more torque is needed to tighten the nut further.
Conclusion
Flat head carriage bolts might be small but they play a vital role in ensuring the stability and safety of a construction project. The zinc-plated steel bolts provide additional durability and are resistant to rust and corrosion. When installing flat head carriage bolts, it's essential to use the right type of nut, whether it be a wing nut or a hex nut. While often overlooked, flat head carriage bolts are an unsung hero of hardware that should never be underestimated.