Carriage bolts feature a circular head and a flat tip, and they are most frequently utilized in exterior applications. These architectural fasteners are sometimes referred to as coach bolts or plow bolts, but carriage bolts come in a wide range of sizes and are available from local hardware stores and internet distributors.
It could be necessary to order carriage bolts from a fastener expert directly if they are specially engineered or made of higher-grade steel. 316 stainless steel carriage bolts are another type of fastener that can be used for marine purposes like on boats.
What a carriage bolt is?
There are several materials that can be used for creating the type of fastener known as a carriage bolt. Stainless steels are one of the best materials available. A carriage bolt typically has a round head, a flat tip, and threading that runs along the shank of the bolt.
Carriage bolts are most frequently used in wood applications and are also known as plough bolts or coach bolts. However usually, they can be far more varied compared to what one might imagine.
What are they used for?
Wood with wood, or wood with metal, and even metal with metal is held together with carriage bolts. When inserted into a square hole, especially when working with metal, their unique shape enables the bolt to self-lock.
It is also easily inserted through a hole that is round in most types of wood, making it a flexible attachment.
From where carriage bolts got their name?
There have been carriage bolts for ages. They gained popularity in the early 1800s as a result of being frequently employed in the construction of either carriages or carriage wheels, earning the name “carriage bolts.”
Choosing the correct carriage bolt
If durability and high quality are priorities for you in carriage bolts, it is advisable to buy stainless steel carriage bolts. These fasteners will be robust, scratch-resistant, and resistant to corrosion.
Another excellent option is hot-dipped galvanized steel, which is also very corrosion-resistant if indeed the bolt will be used in external applications. Having said that, stainless steel is unquestionably the finest option if the carriage bolt will be immersed in water.
For marine applications, a 316 stainless carriage bolt should be preferred.
What are the modern uses of carriage bolts?
Carpentry and wood construction are two of carriage bolts’ most popular current uses. They are often used for do-it-yourself projects, home maintenance, and repairs by both homeowners and professional carpenters.
What are the different varieties of carriage bolts?
The 4 most popular styles of carriage bolts are:
- The rib-necked and roundhead bolts
- Short-necked and roundhead bolts
- Square-necked and flathead bolts
- Fin-necked bolts
These bolts all have various use cases and physical characteristics. These can be utilized with a wide range of materials, including the following:
- Soft metals
- Plastics
- Wood
- Sheet metal
- Thin plywood.
How do you measure a carriage bolt?
Keep in mind that carriage bolts can be measured throughout their whole length, starting from the bottom of the head and encompassing the square neck. Avoid the usual mistake of taking your measurements from the base of the neck.
