Over 2.6K Plastite® & Taptite® Alternative Screws Now in Stock!

Are you looking for Plastite® or Taptite® Brand Generic Alternative Screws?

If you are in need of Trilobular Plastite® or Taptite® Alternative Screws for your upcoming project, you have arrived at the right destination!

MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB woman owned business, and a trusted supplier of Functional Equivalents to Plastite® and Taptite® Brand screws. We offer a wide selection of over 2,600 inch and metric trilobular thread-rolling / thread-forming screws, in Steel or Stainless Steel materials, that are perfect for a variety of plastic/thermoplastic and soft metal applications. You’ll find in stock Plastite® and Taptite® Alternative Screws with different head styles, drives, thread sizes, and lengths; so you can choose the ones that best suit your needs.

Common Uses for Plastite® Alternative Screws

Plastite® Alternative Screws are used in many industries that rely on fastening solutions for plastic/thermoplastic applications. The main purpose for these screws is to create threads within the plastic material, as they are being driven in, in order to create dependable and secure fastening solutions for holding plastic components together.

Some of the industries that benefit from Plastite® Alternative Screws include the Consumer Goods Industry, where they utilize this fastening solution to secure plastic parts in furniture, plastic containers, toys, and sporting goods; the Appliances Industry, where these screws are used to assemble many plastic parts/components that contribute to the overall durability and functionality of the appliances, such as dishwashers, dryers, washing machines, refrigerators, and many other household appliances; the Electronics and Electrical Industries, where these screws are touted for their resistance to loosening due to vibration, and for their fastening use in circuit boards, cable management systems, electrical components, and other plastic surfaces. In addition to the previous industries, the Industrial Equipment Industry, Automotive Industry, Packaging Industry, and many more, also make great use of these handy fasteners!

Common Uses for Taptite® Alternative Screws

Taptite® Alternative Screws carry similar benefits to the ones Plastite® Alternative Screws offer, but with the added benefit that they can also be used on soft metal applications, such as aluminum, mild steel, brass, copper and magnesium. In this sense, these screws are used in many industries where secure and efficient fastening is a must!

Some of the industries that make use of Taptite® Alternative Screws are: the Aerospace Industry, where they use these screws in components that require resistance to vibration, such as aircraft components, and aerospace structures and equipment; the Electronics Industry, where they use many of these screws to secure electronics, such as smart phones, computers, circuit boards, electronic enclosures, and other consumer electronics; the Metal Fabrication Industry, where these guys do the job of fastening metal assemblies and metal structures securely in place. Other industries that make use of these screws are the Manufacturing and Assembly Industry, the Automotive Industry, and the Machinery and Equipment Industry—where Taptite® Alternative Screws are commonly used in the assembly of construction equipment, industrial and agricultural machinery, and other mechanical systems.

In-Stock Plastite® & Taptite® Alternative Screws at MF Supply

We currently have in stock over 2,600 Plastite® and Taptite® Alternative Screws in inch and metric sizes, and in a variety of head styles, drives, and lengths. The most common material options available are: steel—with a black oxide, black zinc, zinc, zinc green, or zinc yellow finish—A2 Steel, 410 stainless steel, and stainless steel materials.

Below is a list of the Trilobular Thread-Rolling / Thread-Forming Plastite® and Taptite® Alternative Screws currently available on our website!

Our Plastite® and Taptite® Alternative Screws are competitively priced. Don’t wait and visit our website today to place an order, or reach out to us to Request a Quote!

Can’t find what you’re looking for?

Can’t find what you are looking for on the list? Reach out to us today, and our MF Supply team of sourcing experts will help find what you need. “Finding the right screw for you” is our tag line after all!


Book a one-on-one consultation with our President, Robin, to discuss how MF Supply can help you solve your Industrial Sourcing, Fastener, and Safety concerns.


MF Supply Work With Us

Six Reasons To Buy From MF Supply

  • Full eCommerce Enabled Website With Technical Manual Available 24/7 – Visit our website and Create a New Account, track online orders, browse our product catalog, check technical specs, subscribe to our blog, or buy online.  We are adding items and improving functionality daily!
  • Same Day Shipping From The USA – Our hardware products are in stock and ship to you directly from our USA based distribution centers. 
  • Functional Equivalents To Expensive Brand Names- We stock and source alternatives to brand name fasteners, reducing long lead times and saving you money.
  • Creatively Solve Problems – We are sourcing experts, offer competitive pricing and specialize in finding hard to find parts and reducing long deliveries.
  • One-Stop Shopping On Certified Hardware – We stock and source a full line of fasteners including Mil-Spec, DFARS compliant and other industrial products.
  • WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business – To meet your diversity & set-aside needs.

MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified supply chain partner to business, industry and government.  We are sourcing experts and stocking distributors of Hardware, Precision & Mil-Spec Fasteners and Safety supplies.  For more than 50 years, we have been supplying manufacturers in the electronics, industrial, commercial, aerospace and military markets with the full range of fastener products and services.  Our Cage Code is 58QG4 and our registered name is RL Supply Inc dba MF Supply. 


Taptite® Alternative Screws!? What the heck are those?

Welcome back to the next installment in our “what the heck is that” series, refreshed for 2023! In this series we discuss some of the unique fasteners and electronic hardware that manufacturers use in the design and assembly of their products. Today, we will introduce you to Taptite® Alternative Screws! Like our friends, the Plastite® Alternative Screws, these fasteners are functional equivalents to a trademark registered branded product. Taptite®, Duo-Taptite®and Taptite Pro® are trademarked by REMINC/CONTI.

What are Taptite® Alternative Screws?

Taptite equivalent fasteners are high performance thread-rolling screws (sometimes called thread-forming or trilobular) that create reusable threads in soft metal materials, such as plastic, aluminum, mild steel, brass, copper and magnesium. Their design include a trilobular rolling or thread-forming tip that grants them thread-forming, thread-rolling action as they are driven into the material. This thread-forming action creates a tight and secure connection, which in turn enhances the holding power of the screws in the plastic and soft metal component.

These fasteners need pre-drilled holes, but they don’t need pre-tapped or pre-threaded holes. This is because, when their threads are driven into the application, they tend to displace the material on the walls, inside the holes, in order to form mating threads. These newly formed internal mating threads tighten the screws securely in place and provide resistance to loosening caused by vibrations. Hence, Taptite® Alternative Screws are designed for applications where stability is crucial, but also to help eliminate some of the assembly costs associated with tapping procedures.

It is also worth mentioning that Taptite Alternative screws come in inch & metric sizes, and in a variety of heads, drives, materials and finishes that are designed for a wide range of plastic and soft metal fastening solutions.

Who uses Taptite® Alternative Screws?

Taptite® Alternative Screws are designed with an optimized thread-forming / thread-rolling action that enables efficient engagement, provides increased holding power, clamp load retention, and resistance to loosening due to vibrations. Any plastic or soft metal application with a pre-drilled bore/hole that needs to reliably secure the mating of components, and that needs to eliminate the need for additional tapping, threading or locking operations is a great candidate for using this type of fasteners!

Taptite® Alternative Screws are widely used across various plastic and soft metal applications in many industries, including: aerospace, electronics, appliances, manufacturing, machinery and equipment, and many more. They are also very common in the automotive industry. For instance, many manufacturers have used these screws to assemble components onto the exterior and interior of aluminum engines.

What materials and sizes are available?

Taptite® Alternative Screws are readily available off the shelf in steel—with a black oxide, black zinc, zinc, zinc green, or zinc yellow finish—410 stainless steel, and stainless steel materials. In addition, inch Taptite® Alternative Screws follow the SAE J81 standard, and their metric counterparts follow the Din 7500 standards.

Standard stock sizes for the head diameter are Inch from 2-56 to 1/2-13, and Metric from M2-0.4 to M8-1.25. Popular thread classes include partial, SEMS, and full threads.

Are there other factors to consider?

YES! It is generally recommended to pre-drill or pre-punch holes, with an increased length of engagement, to hold the entire length of the screws in the plastic or metal material/application. This should be done in order to ensure proper thread formation, fastener fracture—if it is the preferred failure mode—and to minimize the risk of material damage.

Taptite® Alternative Screws at MF Supply

We currently offer:

  • A full range of commercial parts, including parts that are ROHS compliant.
  • Inch and Metric Din 7500 Taptite® Brand Generic Alternative Screws are now available for online purchase at our website!
  • Brand names and generic equivalents.
  • Custom made parts per print.

For more detailed information on Taptite® Alternative Screws or other Trilobular Thread-Rolling / Thread-Forming Screws, visit us at our website or Request a Quote today, and our MF Supply team of sourcing experts can help you find what you need. “Finding the right screw for you” is our tag line after all!


Book a one-on-one consultation with our President, Robin, to discuss how MF Supply can help you solve your Industrial Sourcing, Fastener, and Safety concerns.


MF Supply Work With Us

Six Reasons To Buy From MF Supply

  • Full eCommerce Enabled Website With Technical Manual Available 24/7 – Visit our website and Create a New Account, track online orders, browse our product catalog, check technical specs, subscribe to our blog, or buy online.  We are adding items and improving functionality daily!
  • Same Day Shipping From The USA – Our hardware products are in stock and ship to you directly from our USA based distribution centers. 
  • Functional Equivalents To Expensive Brand Names- We stock and source alternatives to brand name fasteners, reducing long lead times and saving you money.
  • Creatively Solve Problems – We are sourcing experts, offer competitive pricing and specialize in finding hard to find parts and reducing long deliveries.
  • One-Stop Shopping On Certified Hardware – We stock and source a full line of fasteners including Mil-Spec, DFARS compliant and other industrial products.
  • WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business – To meet your diversity & set-aside needs.

MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified supply chain partner to business, industry and government.  We are sourcing experts and stocking distributors of Hardware, Precision & Mil-Spec Fasteners and Safety supplies.  For more than 50 years, we have been supplying manufacturers in the electronics, industrial, commercial, aerospace and military markets with the full range of fastener products and services.  Our Cage Code is 58QG4 and our registered name is RL Supply Inc dba MF Supply. 


Plastite® Alternative Screws? What the heck are those?

Welcome back to our “what the heck is that” series, refreshed for 2023, where we discuss some of the unique fasteners and electronic hardware that manufacturers use in the design and assembly of their products. Today, we will introduce you to the Plastite® Alternative Screws. This fastener creates reusable threads in plastics. It goes by many monikers, and is AKA as a Thread-forming,  Thread-Rolling, Trilobular, and sometimes thread-cutting screws. Plastite® Alternative Screws require a drilled or punched hole to install.  In general, thread-forming screws press threads into material for a tight, vibration resistant assembly, while thread-cutting screws require less driving torque and cause less stress on material than thread-forming screws.

What are Plastite® Alternative Screws?

Plastite® Alternative Screws are trilobular thread-forming / thread-rolling screws specifically designed for plastic and thermoplastic applications. Their design include a cutting or thread-forming tip that grants them thread-forming, thread-rolling action as they are driven into the plastic material’s hole.

These fasteners do not need pre-tapped or pre-threaded holes because, when their threads are driven into the plastic application, they tend to displace the plastic within the internal sides of the hole and form a female thread. This newly formed internal thread is then used against the male thread of the screw to tighten it, with the right driver’s torque, securely in place.

It is also worth mentioning that they come in a variety of heads, drives, materials and finishes that are designed for specific or unique plastic and thermoplastic fastening solutions.

AKA – Also known as…..

Plastite® Alternative Screws are also called Plas-Fix®45 Alternative, Plastite® Alternative and EJOT® PT® Alternative Self-Tapping Screws. They are designed with an optimized thread-forming / thread-rolling action that enables efficient engagement and provides increased holding power when used exclusively in plastic applications.

Who uses Plastite® Alternative Screws?

Any plastic or thermoplastic application with a bore/hole that needs to reliably secure the mating of plastic components, and that needs to eliminate the need for additional tapping or threading operations is a great candidate for using this type of fasteners!

Plastite® Alternative Screws are broadly used across various plastic and thermoplastic applications in many industries, including: electronics, electrical engineering, packaging, appliances, industrial assemblies and equipment, and many more. Plastite® Alternative Screws are also very common in the automotive industry for fastening some of its plastic components, such as dashboard assemblies, door panels, and engine compartments.

What materials and sizes are available?

Plastite® Alternative Screws are readily available off the shelf in steel—with a black oxide, black zinc, zinc or zinc yellow finish—A2 stainless steel, 410 stainless steel, and stainless steel materials. In addition, some of these screws also follow the ASME B18.6.3 standard.

Standard stock sizes for the head diameter are Inch from #0-40 to #5/16-9, and Metric from M1.6-0.67 to M6-2.5. Popular Metric thread classes include full 30 & 45 degree thread flank.

Are there other factors to consider?

YES! It is generally recommended to pre-drill or pre-punch holes, that are deep enough to hold the entire length of the screws, in the plastic material/application. This should be done in order to ensure proper thread formation and minimize the risk of material damage.

Popular brands include: Plastite®, Plas-Fix®45 and EJOT® PT®.

Plastite® Alternative Screws at MF Supply

We currently offer:

  • A full range of commercial parts, including parts that are ROHS compliant.
  • Inch and Metric parts are now available for online purchase at our website!
  • Brand names and generic equivalents.
  • Custom made parts per print.

For more detailed information on Plastite® Alternative Screws or other Trilobular Thread-Rolling / Thread-Forming Screws, visit us at our website or Request a Quote today, and our MF Supply team of sourcing experts can help you find what you need. “Finding the right screw for you” is our tag line after all!


Book a one-on-one consultation with our President, Robin, to discuss how MF Supply can help you solve your Industrial Sourcing, Fastener, and Safety concerns.


MF Supply Work With Us

Six Reasons To Buy From MF Supply

  • Full eCommerce Enabled Website With Technical Manual Available 24/7 – Visit our website and Create a New Account, track online orders, browse our product catalog, check technical specs, subscribe to our blog, or buy online.  We are adding items and improving functionality daily!
  • Same Day Shipping From The USA – Our hardware products are in stock and ship to you directly from our USA based distribution centers. 
  • Functional Equivalents To Expensive Brand Names- We stock and source alternatives to brand name fasteners, reducing long lead times and saving you money.
  • Creatively Solve Problems – We are sourcing experts, offer competitive pricing and specialize in finding hard to find parts and reducing long deliveries.
  • One-Stop Shopping On Certified Hardware – We stock and source a full line of fasteners including Mil-Spec, DFARS compliant and other industrial products.
  • WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business – To meet your diversity & set-aside needs.

MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified supply chain partner to business, industry and government.  We are sourcing experts and stocking distributors of Hardware, Precision & Mil-Spec Fasteners and Safety supplies.  For more than 50 years, we have been supplying manufacturers in the electronics, industrial, commercial, aerospace and military markets with the full range of fastener products and services.  Our Cage Code is 58QG4 and our registered name is RL Supply Inc dba MF Supply. 


How Precision Shoulder Screws are Used in Robotics and Automation

Precision shoulder screws have become an indispensable component in the realm of robotics and automation. Their unique design, combining the functionality of a fastener and a shaft, empowers engineers to achieve precise positioning, smooth motion, modularity, and stability within robotic systems. By incorporating shoulder screws, designers can elevate the performance of robots, making them more reliable, accurate, and adaptable to meet the growing demands of various industries. In this blog, we will explore how precision shoulder screws are used in robotics and automation, and what factors to consider when purchasing them for industrial applications.

What are Precision Shoulder Screws?

Precision shoulder screws are a type of fastener designed with a cylindrical shoulder that provides precise alignment and support, making them ideal for use in applications that require accurate positioning and secure attachment.

When selecting these screws for industrial applications, it is important to consider factors such as material, size and thread type, head type, and application requirements to ensure that the screws provide the necessary strength and support, and can withstand the forces and stresses involved in the application. With the right precision shoulder screws, robotics and automation applications can operate with precision, accuracy, and reliability. Our handy Buyer’s Guide (link to guide)can direct you to the most common off the shelf available options.

Precise Positioning & Alignment

One of the primary benefits of precision shoulder screws is their ability to provide precise alignment in robotic and automation applications. The shoulder of the screw acts as a guide for the mating component, ensuring that it is aligned precisely and securely. By using shoulder screws, engineers can achieve tight tolerances, eliminating any unwanted play or misalignment that could compromise the robot’s performance.

Secure Attachment

Another key benefit of precision shoulder screws is their ability to provide secure attachment. The shoulder of the screw creates a stop against the mating component, preventing it from moving or rotating. This is important in applications that involve high levels of vibration or stress, as it ensures that the components remain securely attached and in place.

Smooth and Reliable Motion

In robotics, smooth and reliable motion is essential for efficient and accurate operations. Precision shoulder screws facilitate this by reducing friction and ensuring smooth movement between connected parts. The shoulder section acts as a bearing surface, minimizing wear and tear while allowing the robot to perform intricate tasks with minimal resistance. This enhanced motion control enables robots to execute precise actions, such as pick-and-place operations, assembly tasks, or complex maneuvers, with exceptional accuracy.

Modularity and Flexibility

Robotic systems often require modular designs, allowing for easy maintenance, upgrades, or customization. Precision shoulder screws excel in such scenarios due to their modular nature. By utilizing shoulder screws, different components can be connected and disconnected swiftly and securely. The screws enable the easy removal and replacement of specific parts or modules, providing a flexible platform for reconfiguration or adaptation to changing operational requirements.

Vibration Damping and Stability

In many robotic applications, vibrations can adversely affect performance and accuracy. Precision shoulder screws play a vital role in dampening these vibrations and maintaining stability. The shoulder section acts as a barrier, absorbing and dissipating vibrational energy, thus reducing the impact on the overall system. This feature is particularly crucial in high-speed or precision-focused robots where even slight disturbances can lead to errors or malfunctions.

Conclusion: Precision shoulder screws have become an indispensable component in the realm of robotics and automation. Their unique design, combining the functionality of a fastener and a shaft, empowers engineers to achieve precise positioning, smooth motion, modularity, and stability within robotic systems. By incorporating shoulder screws, designers can elevate the performance of robots, making them more reliable, accurate, and adaptable to meet the growing demands of various industries.

How to order

Precision Shoulder Bolts often show up under their OEM brand name.  Some of the most popular brands include: BERG, Concord, Globe, PIC, Lyn-tron and RAF. A comprehensive selection of Shoulder Screws is also offered by McMaster-Carr (tight tolerance series), MSC and Grainger. Finally, Precision Shoulder Screws can also show up under their Mil-spec numbers, which include MS51575 & MS51576 and are DFARS compliant with full paperwork.

Check out our Buyer’s guide for more info.

For more detailed information on Precision Shoulder Screws, visit us at our website or Request a Quote today, and our MF Supply team of sourcing experts can help you find what you need. “Finding the right screw for you” is our tag line after all!


Book a one-on-one consultation with our President, Robin, to discuss how MF Supply can help you solve your Industrial Sourcing, Fastener, and Safety concerns.


MF Supply Work With Us

Six Reasons To Buy From MF Supply

  • Full eCommerce Enabled Website With Technical Manual Available 24/7 – Visit our website and Create a New Account, track online orders, browse our product catalog, check technical specs, subscribe to our blog, or buy online.  We are adding items and improving functionality daily!
  • Same Day Shipping From The USA – Our hardware products are in stock and ship to you directly from our USA based distribution centers. 
  • Functional Equivalents To Expensive Brand Names- We stock and source alternatives to brand name fasteners, reducing long lead times and saving you money.
  • Creatively Solve Problems – We are sourcing experts, offer competitive pricing and specialize in finding hard to find parts and reducing long deliveries.
  • One-Stop Shopping On Certified Hardware – We stock and source a full line of fasteners including Mil-Spec, DFARS compliant and other industrial products.
  • WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business – To meet your diversity & set-aside needs.

MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified supply chain partner to business, industry and government.  We are sourcing experts and stocking distributors of Hardware, Precision & Mil-Spec Fasteners and Safety supplies.  For more than 50 years, we have been supplying manufacturers in the electronics, industrial, commercial, aerospace and military markets with the full range of fastener products and services.  Our Cage Code is 58QG4 and our registered name is RL Supply Inc dba MF Supply. 


Buyer’s Guide to Precision Shoulder Screws Refreshed for 2023!

Welcome to our Precision Shoulder Screws Buyer’s Guide Refreshed for 2023! Here are a couple of important details that you must know before setting off to buy Precision Shoulder Screws.

5 Things to Know When Buying Precision Shoulder Screws

Just as Dowel Pins and Retaining Rings are used to locate or hold parts together within a precision assembly or a fixture, so are Precision Shoulder Screws.

Yet shoulder screws are far more versatile. When installed, the unthreaded shoulder acts as a shaft for rotating items such as bearings and bushings, precision spacing, machinery support, and motion guiding. The exacting tolerance of Precision Shoulder Screws makes them ideal for use with other precision components.

They are broadly used across various applications in many industries, including: aerospace, electrical motors, hydraulic equipment, instrumentation, tooling and fixtures, machinery, military and many more.

1. What is a Precision Shoulder Screw? 

Precision Shoulder Screws are generally classified as part of the electronic hardware family. They resemble socket cap screws with an enlarged, unthreaded cylindrical shoulder under the head, and are used to hold parts together within a precision assembly.  Sometimes referred to as “tight tolerance” shoulder screws, they are not governed by any official IFI, ANSI or ASME standard..

Precision shoulder screws are composed of three main parts: the head, the shoulder and the thread.

2. What materials and sizes are available?

Precision Shoulder Screws are readily available off the shelf in type 18-8/303 stainless steel and 416 stainless steel.

Standard stock sizes for the shoulder diameter are Inch from 1/8 to 1/2 and Metric from M4 to M12. The thread class is 2A and the tolerance on the shoulder diameter varies from +.000/-.001 to -.0005 to -.0015 depending upon the manufacturer. Now that’s precise!

316 stainless steel, alloy and other exotic materials, and special diameters and lengths are available in certain sizes and/or for special order and usually involve a lead time.

3. What information do I need for ordering?

The easiest way to order is by manufacturer part number. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to specify shoulder diameter, shoulder length, thread size, material and drive type; for example: 3/16” shoulder diameter x 1” long x 8-32 thread in SS18-8 with a hex-socket drive.

Precision shoulder screws are available in hex socket and slotted drives. Philips, torx and star drives may be available in certain sizes as well.

Typical head styles are a modified fillister with a flat top where the head diameter is about twice the head height and does not need to be specified. Low head fillisters are available in certain sizes.

4. Are there other factors to consider?

YES! One surefire way to save money and shorten delivery time is to cross the OEM brand part on your bill of materials to a functional equivalent.

Popular brands include: Amatom, Cambion, Concord, Globe, HH Smith, Keystone, Lyn-tron, Misumi, Pic Design, RAF, and WM Berg. A comprehensive selection of Precision Shoulder Screws is also offered by McMaster-Carr (tight tolerance series), MSC, and Grainger.

Let’s take the above example of a 3/16” shoulder diameter x 1” long x 8-32 thread in SS18-8 (300 Series) with a hex-socket drive. This part is offered by the seven brands (yes, seven!) listed below under the following part numbers:

  • Grainger 6JY20
  • Lyn-tron SS7431-00
  • McMaster-Carr 94035A208
  • MSC Industrial 67313726
  • Pic Design 4423
  • RAF 6931-SS
  • WM Berg PZ-14-3

You can also find Precision Shoulder Screws under their Mil-Spec numbers, which include MS51575 and MS51576 and are DFARS compliant with full paperwork. The above part is equivalent to a Mil-Spec MS51576-14.

5. What level of certification is required?

Generally, a Certificate of Conformance or a COC is sufficient for your customer. Full certification with material certs and test reports are often available for USA-made and Mil-Spec parts for a fee.

Precision Shoulder Screws at MF Supply

We currently offer:

  • The full range of commercial and mil-spec parts, including parts that are DFARS and ROHS compliant.
  • MS51576 Now available for online purchase!
  • Brand names and generic equivalents.
  • Custom made parts per print in non-standard and exotic materials and finishes.
  • Metric, Inch, and Mil-Spec options & functional equivalents

For more detailed information on Precision Shoulder Screws, visit us at our website or Request a Quote today, and our MF Supply team of sourcing experts can help you find what you need. “Finding the right screw for you” is our tag line after all!


Book a one-on-one consultation with our President, Robin, to discuss how MF Supply can help you solve your Industrial Sourcing, Fastener, and Safety concerns.


MF Supply Work With Us

Six Reasons To Buy From MF Supply

  • Full eCommerce Enabled Website With Technical Manual Available 24/7 – Visit our website and Create a New Account, track online orders, browse our product catalog, check technical specs, subscribe to our blog, or buy online.  We are adding items and improving functionality daily!
  • Same Day Shipping From The USA – Our hardware products are in stock and ship to you directly from our USA based distribution centers. 
  • Functional Equivalents To Expensive Brand Names- We stock and source alternatives to brand name fasteners, reducing long lead times and saving you money.
  • Creatively Solve Problems – We are sourcing experts, offer competitive pricing and specialize in finding hard to find parts and reducing long deliveries.
  • One-Stop Shopping On Certified Hardware – We stock and source a full line of fasteners including Mil-Spec, DFARS compliant and other industrial products.
  • WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business – To meet your diversity & set-aside needs.

MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified supply chain partner to business, industry and government.  We are sourcing experts and stocking distributors of Hardware, Precision & Mil-Spec Fasteners and Safety supplies.  For more than 50 years, we have been supplying manufacturers in the electronics, industrial, commercial, aerospace and military markets with the full range of fastener products and services.  Our Cage Code is 58QG4 and our registered name is RL Supply Inc dba MF Supply. 


Over 216 Unique Retaining Rings Now Available for Online Purchase!

MF Supply is a trusted supplier of Retaining Rings to OEMs, Manufacturers and Industry. We now offer a wide selection of over 216 Retaining Rings in stock & available for purchase on our website alone. You’ll find in stock Inch & Metric E-Style (E/SE), External and Internal Retaining Rings in a variety of sizes and materials—such as Steel and Stainless Steel. We offer Brand Names and/or Equivalents to National Catalog and OEM brands including: Anderton, Ellison, IRR, Rotor Clip® and Waldes Truarc®.

Common Uses of Retaining Rings at MF Supply

Retaining Rings are broadly used across various applications in many industries, including: aerospace, drive shafts, electrical motors, hydraulic equipment, instrumentation, lighting assemblies, machinery, nuclear equipment and many more. Retaining Rings are very common in the automotive industry.

Any application with a bore/housing or shaft that requires a shoulder to keep parts in place within an assembly is a candidate for using Retaining Rings.

In-Stock Standoffs and Spacers at MF Supply

At http://www.mfsupply.com, we currently offer over 216 Retaining Rings in E-Style (E/SE), External (used on shafts) and Internal (used for bores) Styles. They also come in many sizes (including Metric sizes), and the general range is from 1/16 to 10″. Materials include Carbon Spring Steel and PH15-7 Stainless Steel. Check out our handy cross reference sheets here.

Below is a list of the Retaining Rings currently available for online purchase at our website.

E-Style Retaining Rings (E/SE)

External Retaining Rings

Internal Retaining Rings

Make ordering the Retaining Rings you require a breeze by visiting our website today, or reach out to us to request a quote for standard or special custom made parts per print.

What the heck are Retaining Rings anyway?

Would you like to learn more about Retaining Rings? Don’t sweat it! Read our recent blog post “Retaining Rings!? What the heck are those?“, from our “What the Heck is that” series to learn more about this category of fasteners.

Can’t find what you’re looking for?

If the OEM brand, size or material you need is not listed above or on our website Request a Quote today, and our MF Supply team of sourcing experts can help find what you need. “Finding the right screw for you” is our tag line after all!


Book a one-on-one consultation with our President, Robin, to discuss how MF Supply can help you solve your Industrial Sourcing, Fastener, and Safety concerns.


MF Supply Work With Us

Six Reasons To Buy From MF Supply

  • Full eCommerce Enabled Website With Technical Manual Available 24/7 – Visit our website and Create a New Account, track online orders, browse our product catalog, check technical specs, subscribe to our blog, or buy online.  We are adding items and improving functionality daily!
  • Same Day Shipping From The USA – Our hardware products are in stock and ship to you directly from our USA based distribution centers. 
  • Functional Equivalents To Expensive Brand Names- We stock and source alternatives to brand name fasteners, reducing long lead times and saving you money.
  • Creatively Solve Problems – We are sourcing experts, offer competitive pricing and specialize in finding hard to find parts and reducing long deliveries.
  • One-Stop Shopping On Certified Hardware – We stock and source a full line of fasteners including Mil-Spec, DFARS compliant and other industrial products.
  • WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business – To meet your diversity & set-aside needs.

MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified supply chain partner to business, industry and government.  We are sourcing experts and stocking distributors of Hardware, Precision & Mil-Spec Fasteners and Safety supplies.  For more than 50 years, we have been supplying manufacturers in the electronics, industrial, commercial, aerospace and military markets with the full range of fastener products and services.  Our Cage Code is 58QG4 and our registered name is RL Supply Inc dba MF Supply. 


Retaining Rings!? What the heck are those?

Welcome back to our “what the heck is that” series, refreshed for 2023, where we discuss some of the unique fasteners and electronic hardware that manufacturers use in the design and assembly of their products. Today, we will re-introduce you to the Retaining Ring!

What is a Retaining Ring?

Retaining Rings are yet another way to position, locate and retain parts within an assembly. Shaped like an open ring and made of metal, Retaining Rings can be coiled from wire, stamped or laser cut. They come in a variety of styles and materials, each solving a unique fastening problem.

Generally, Retaining Rings work together with a bore or a shaft by snapping into a groove or being pushed into place to create a high strength shoulder to retain parts.

AKA – Also known as…..

The Retaining Ring is a funny little guy and answers to a bunch of different names – some of Retaining Ring’s favorite aliases are: snap rings, wire rings, circlips, retainer clips, spiral rings, wire clips, c-rings, e-rings, grip rings, klip rings and push-on rings.

Who uses Retaining Rings?

Any application with a bore/housing or shaft that requires a shoulder to keep parts in place within an assembly is a candidate for using Retaining Rings.

Retaining Rings are broadly used across various applications in many industries, including: aerospace, drive shafts, electrical motors, hydraulic equipment, instrumentation, lighting assemblies, machinery, nuclear equipment and many more. Retaining Rings are very common in the automotive industry.

Why use a Retaining Ring vs. a screw or a bolt?

When a shaft or bore design that includes assembled components needs a shoulder, it can be costly to machine the shoulder, mate threaded components and fasteners together and drill and coordinate threaded holes and access holes to fasten the assembly. Retaining Rings can serve as a cost effective and time saving alternative. In addition to cost, Retaining Rings offer 2 special benefits a) they can be more resilient than screw assemblies in high vibration environments, b) they are made from less material, hence they are lighter, cleaner, gentler on the environment (aka Green!).

What styles are available?

Retaining Rings come in a variety of styles and materials. The most popular styles are: External (used on shafts), Internal (used for bores) and E-Style (radially assembled). The most popular materials are Carbon Spring Steel, PH15-7 Stainless Steel and Beryllium Copper. The most common finishes for Carbon Steel Rings are Phosphate, Zinc Clear and Zinc Yellow.

Are there other factors to consider?

  • As discussed, Retaining Rings are often referred to by their brand names, which can often be substituted by generic equivalents. Popular brands include: Anderton, Arcon, Rotor Clip, Waldes/Truarc. We can supply the brand name or generic alternatives.
  • Retaining Rings often show up under their Mil-spec numbers, which can be crossed to commercial equivalents. Some common Mil-spec series for Retaining Rings include: MS16624, MS16625, MS16626, MS16627, MS16628, MS16629, MS16630, MS16631, MS16632, MS16633, MS3215, MS3217 and MS90707.
  • Sizes available vary based on the style. The general range is from 1/16 to 10″. Metric sizes are also available.

Retaining Rings at MF Supply

We currently offer:

For more detailed information on Retaining Rings, visit us at our website or Request a Quote today, and our MF Supply team of sourcing experts can help you find what you need. “Finding the right screw for you” is our tag line after all!


Book a one-on-one consultation with our President, Robin, to discuss how MF Supply can help you solve your Industrial Sourcing, Fastener, and Safety concerns.


MF Supply Work With Us

Six Reasons To Buy From MF Supply

  • Full eCommerce Enabled Website With Technical Manual Available 24/7 – Visit our website and Create a New Account, track online orders, browse our product catalog, check technical specs, subscribe to our blog, or buy online.  We are adding items and improving functionality daily!
  • Same Day Shipping From The USA – Our hardware products are in stock and ship to you directly from our USA based distribution centers. 
  • Functional Equivalents To Expensive Brand Names- We stock and source alternatives to brand name fasteners, reducing long lead times and saving you money.
  • Creatively Solve Problems – We are sourcing experts, offer competitive pricing and specialize in finding hard to find parts and reducing long deliveries.
  • One-Stop Shopping On Certified Hardware – We stock and source a full line of fasteners including Mil-Spec, DFARS compliant and other industrial products.
  • WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business – To meet your diversity & set-aside needs.

MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified supply chain partner to business, industry and government.  We are sourcing experts and stocking distributors of Hardware, Precision & Mil-Spec Fasteners and Safety supplies.  For more than 50 years, we have been supplying manufacturers in the electronics, industrial, commercial, aerospace and military markets with the full range of fastener products and services.  Our Cage Code is 58QG4 and our registered name is RL Supply Inc dba MF Supply. 


Precision Shoulder Screws!? What the heck are those?

What the heck are Precision Shoulder Screws?

Here we go again, with our “what the heck is that” series refreshed for 2023, where we discuss some of the unique fasteners and electronic hardware that manufacturers use in the design and assembly of their products. Today, we will re-introduce you to the Shoulder Screw!

What is a Precision Shoulder Screw? 

Shoulder Screws, which are sometimes called Shoulder Bolts or Stripper Bolts, are (generally) hex socket screws with an enlarged, unthreaded cylindrical shoulder under the head.  They are comprised of 3 main parts: the head, the shoulder and the thread.  They come in two basic categories, “Commercial” and “Precision”.

Commercial Shoulder Screws are made to inch standard ANSI ASME B18.8.2.  The size range for the shoulder diameter is from ¼ to 2”.  The thread class is 3A and the tolerance on the shoulder is +.005 /  -.005.

Precision Shoulder screws are sometimes referred to as “tight tolerance” shoulder screws. They are not governed by any official ANSI or ASME standard. The size range for the shoulder diameter is from 3/32 to ½.  The thread class is 2A and the tolerance on the shoulder diameter varies from +.000/-.001 to  -.0005 to -.0015 depending upon the manufacturer. Now that’s precise!

Who uses Shoulder Screws?

Just as Dowel Pins and Retaining Rings are used to locate or hold parts together within a precision assembly or a fixture, so are Precision Shoulder Screws.

Yet shoulder screws are more versatile. When installed, the unthreaded shoulder acts as a shaft for rotating items such as bearings and bushings, precision spacing, machinery support, and motion guiding. Precision Shoulder screws exacting tolerances make them ideal for use with other precision components.

They are broadly used across various applications in many industries, including: aerospace, electrical motors, hydraulic equipment, instrumentation, tooling and fixtures, machinery, military and many more.

What do I need to consider when selecting Shoulder Screws?

Although Shoulder Screws are offered in a multitude of materials and styles, when it comes to the main commercial and precision offerings, there are a few main issues to consider.

Which Drive and Head Style?

Precision shoulder screws are readily available in hex socket and slotted drives.  Philips drives are available in certain sizes. Torx and Star are available for special order. Typical head styles are a modified fillister with a flat top where the head diameter is about twice the head height. Low head fillisters are available in certain sizes

Which material do I need?

Precision shoulder bolts are readily available in Type 18-8/303 Stainless Steel and 416 Stainless Steel.  316 Stainless Steel, Alloy and other exotic materials are available for special order.

Are there other factors to consider?

When ordering Precision Shoulder screws, specify the Shoulder Diameter, Shoulder length, thread size, material and drive type. For example, an example of a typical Precision Shoulder screw is a ¼ shoulder x ½ long x 10-32 thread in SS18-8 with a hex-socket drive. Non-locking is the most popular style, but locking may also be available.

Precision Shoulder Bolts  often show up under their brand name.  Some of the most popular brands include: BERG, Concord, Globe, PIC, Lyn-tron and RAF. A comprehensive selection of Shoulder Screws is also offered by McMaster-Carr (tight tolerance series), MSC and Grainger.

Finally, Precision Shoulder Screws can also show up under their Mil-spec numbers, which include MS51575 & MS51576 and are DFARS compliant with full paperwork.

Precision Shoulder Screws at MF Supply

We currently offer:

  • The full range of commercial and mil-spec parts, including parts that are DFARS and ROHS compliant.
  • MS51576 Now available for online purchase!
  • Brand names and generic equivalents.
  • Custom made parts per print in non-standard and exotic materials and finishes.
  • Inch, Metric and Mil-Spec sizes.

For more detailed information on Precision Shoulder Screws, visit us at our website or Request a Quote today, and our MF Supply team of sourcing experts can help you find what you need. “Finding the right screw for you” is our tag line after all!


Book a one-on-one consultation with our President, Robin, to discuss how MF Supply can help you solve your Industrial Sourcing, Fastener, and Safety concerns.


MF Supply Work With Us

Six Reasons To Buy From MF Supply

  • Full eCommerce Enabled Website With Technical Manual Available 24/7 – Visit our website and Create a New Account, track online orders, browse our product catalog, check technical specs, subscribe to our blog, or buy online.  We are adding items and improving functionality daily!
  • Same Day Shipping From The USA – Our hardware products are in stock and ship to you directly from our USA based distribution centers. 
  • Functional Equivalents To Expensive Brand Names- We stock and source alternatives to brand name fasteners, reducing long lead times and saving you money.
  • Creatively Solve Problems – We are sourcing experts, offer competitive pricing and specialize in finding hard to find parts and reducing long deliveries.
  • One-Stop Shopping On Certified Hardware – We stock and source a full line of fasteners including Mil-Spec, DFARS compliant and other industrial products.
  • WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business – To meet your diversity & set-aside needs.

MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified supply chain partner to business, industry and government.  We are sourcing experts and stocking distributors of Hardware, Precision & Mil-Spec Fasteners and Safety supplies.  For more than 50 years, we have been supplying manufacturers in the electronics, industrial, commercial, aerospace and military markets with the full range of fastener products and services.  Our Cage Code is 58QG4 and our registered name is RL Supply Inc dba MF Supply. 


Check out MF Supply’s 2023 Standoff & Spacer Cross Reference Tables! 

Standoffs & Spacers Equivalent Cross Reference: Find OEM brands & Functional Equivalents

Using functional equivalents, including Mil-Spec, generics and other OEM brands’ versions of Electronic Hardware like Standoffs and Spacers, is a practice many manufacturer’s use to save money and shorten lead times. 

Checkout our four most popular Standoff & Spacer cross reference charts to see if there is a Functional Equivalent to your  OEM fastener brand, and start saving money and reducing lead times immediately. 

Hex Spacers

Hex shaped Spacers. Available in Aluminum, Brass, Nylon, and Stainless Steel materials.

Round Spacers

Round shaped Spacers. Available in Aluminum, Brass, Nylon, and Stainless Steel materials.

Hex Standoffs

Hex shaped Female and Male-Female Standoffs. Available in Aluminum, Brass, Nylon, and Stainless Steel materials.

Round Standoffs

Round shaped Female and Male-Female Standoffs. Available in Aluminum, Brass, Nylon, and Stainless Steel materials.

MF Supply is a leading supplier of Standoffs and Spacers, including major brands and equivalents to Amatom, Captive, Concord, Globe, HH Smith, Grainger, Keystone, Lyn-tron, McMaster-Carr, MSC, Microplastics, PEM, RAF, Unicorp and more in imperial, metric and mil-spec sizes and materials.  

We stock a huge inventory including Inch & Metric Sizes, Round and Hex styles, Female & Male-Female options and a variety of sizes, materials and platings.  We stock commercial imported and domestically made and DFAR compliant with COC and full certifications available upon request. 

Standoffs and Spacers sometimes show up under their Mil-spec numbers, which can be crossed to commercial equivalents. Some common Mil-spec series include NAS42, NAS43, NAS61, NAS1056, NAS1057, NAS1829, NAS1830, NAS1831. 

If you cant find the part number you need feel free to request a quote and our sourcing experts can help you out! 


Book a one-on-one consultation with our President, Robin, to discuss how MF Supply can help you solve your Industrial Sourcing, Fastener, and Safety concerns.


MF Supply Work With Us

Six Reasons To Buy From MF Supply

  • Full eCommerce Enabled Website With Technical Manual Available 24/7 – Visit our website and Create a New Account, track online orders, browse our product catalog, check technical specs, subscribe to our blog, or buy online.  We are adding items and improving functionality daily!
  • Same Day Shipping From The USA – Our hardware products are in stock and ship to you directly from our USA based distribution centers. 
  • Functional Equivalents To Expensive Brand Names- We stock and source alternatives to brand name fasteners, reducing long lead times and saving you money.
  • Creatively Solve Problems – We are sourcing experts, offer competitive pricing and specialize in finding hard to find parts and reducing long deliveries.
  • One-Stop Shopping On Certified Hardware – We stock and source a full line of fasteners including Mil-Spec, DFARS compliant and other industrial products.
  • WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business – To meet your diversity & set-aside needs.

MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified supply chain partner to business, industry and government.  We are sourcing experts and stocking distributors of Hardware, Precision & Mil-Spec Fasteners and Safety supplies.  For more than 50 years, we have been supplying manufacturers in the electronics, industrial, commercial, aerospace and military markets with the full range of fastener products and services.  Our Cage Code is 58QG4 and our registered name is RL Supply Inc dba MF Supply. 

Read More https://conta.cc/3r0B1Q3

Over 1,700 Standoffs and Spacers in stock!

Are you looking for Standoffs or Spacers? Look no further than MF Supply!

MF Supply is a trusted supplier of Standoffs and Spacers for Manufacturers and Industry. We now offer a wide selection of over 1,700 Standoffs and Spacers in stock & available for purchase on our website. You’ll find in stock Inch & Metric, Round & Hex, and in a variety of sizes and materials—such as Aluminum, Brass, Nylon, Steel and Stainless Steel. We offer Brand Names and/or Equivalents to National Catalog and OEM brands including: Amatom, Captive, HH Smith, Grainer, Keystone, Lyn-tron, McMaster-Carr, MSC, Microplastics, RAF, Unicorp.

Common Uses of Standoffs and Spacers at MF Supply

Below is a brief explanation of what Standoffs and Spacers are used for.

  • Spacers: Spacers are commonly used in equipment or machines that need to maintain a specific distance between components, to prevent over-tightening or to distribute loads.
  • Standoffs: Standoffs, like spacers, are also used to create a gap or distance between two surfaces, but are also used to mount or fasten electronic components such as circuit boards.

In-Stock Standoffs and Spacers at MF Supply

At MF Supply’s website, we currently offer over 1,700 Standoffs and Spacers in round or hexagon shapes. They also come in many sizes, and materials, which include Aluminum, Brass with Nickel plated finish, Nylon, Steel and Stainless Steel. Below is a list of the Standoffs and Spacers currently available on our website.

Hexagon Spacers

Round Spacers

Hexagon Female Threaded Standoffs

Hexagon Male-Female Threaded Standoffs

Metric Hexagon Male-Female Threaded Standoffs

Round Female Threaded Standoffs

Round Male-Female Threaded Standoffs

Self-Clinching Standoffs

Make ordering the Standoffs and Spacers you require a breeze by visiting our website today, or reach out to us to request a quote.

What the heck are Standoffs and Spacers anyway?

Would you like to learn more about Standoffs & Spacers? Don’t sweat it! Read our recent blog post “Standoffs and Spacers!? What the heck are those?“, from our “What the Heck is that” series to learn more about this Category of Electronic Hardware.

Can’t find what you’re looking for?

If the OEM brand, size, material or plating you need is not listed above or on our website, or you need a Mil-Spec, DFARs or domestically manufactured part, Request a Quote today, and our MF Supply team of sourcing experts can help find what you need. “Finding the right screw for you” is our tag line after all!


Book a one-on-one consultation with our President, Robin, to discuss how MF Supply can help you solve your Industrial Sourcing, Fastener, and Safety concerns.


MF Supply Work With Us

Six Reasons To Buy From MF Supply

  • Full eCommerce Enabled Website With Technical Manual Available 24/7 – Visit our website and Create a New Account, track online orders, browse our product catalog, check technical specs, subscribe to our blog, or buy online.  We are adding items and improving functionality daily!
  • Same Day Shipping From The USA – Our hardware products are in stock and ship to you directly from our USA based distribution centers. 
  • Functional Equivalents To Expensive Brand Names- We stock and source alternatives to brand name fasteners, reducing long lead times and saving you money.
  • Creatively Solve Problems – We are sourcing experts, offer competitive pricing and specialize in finding hard to find parts and reducing long deliveries.
  • One-Stop Shopping On Certified Hardware – We stock and source a full line of fasteners including Mil-Spec, DFARS compliant and other industrial products.
  • WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business – To meet your diversity & set-aside needs.

MF Supply is a WBE/WOSB certified supply chain partner to business, industry and government.  We are sourcing experts and stocking distributors of Hardware, Precision & Mil-Spec Fasteners and Safety supplies.  For more than 50 years, we have been supplying manufacturers in the electronics, industrial, commercial, aerospace and military markets with the full range of fastener products and services.  Our Cage Code is 58QG4 and our registered name is RL Supply Inc dba MF Supply.