Precision Shoulder Screws!? What the heck are those?
Posted: April 26, 2023 Filed under: DFARS, Mil-Spec, MS51575, MS51576, Precision Shoulder Screws | Tags: Fasteners, hex socket screws, MS51575, MS51576, Precision Shoulder Screws, Shoulder Bolts, Stripper Bolts Leave a commentWhat 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.
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 1,700 Standoffs and Spacers in stock!
Posted: March 31, 2023 Filed under: Electronic Hardware, Fasteners, Hex Spacers, Hex Standoffs, Inch, Metric, Panel Fasteners, Round Spacers, Round Standoffs, Spacers, Standoffs, Standoffs and Spacers, Threaded Fasteners | Tags: Aluminum, Brass, Fasteners, Hardware, Hex Spacers, Hex Standofffs, Hexagonal Spacers, Hexagonal Standoffs, Inch Spacers, Inch Standoffs, Metric Spacers, Metric Standoffs, Nickel, Nickel Plating, Nylon, Passivated Plating, Round Spacers, Round Standoffs, Self-Clinching, Self-clinching Standoffs, Spacers, Stainless Steel, standoffs, Standoffs Female, Standoffs Female Threaded, Standoffs Male-Female, Standoffs Male-Female Threaded, Steel, Zinc, Zinc Plating Leave a commentAre 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
- Stainless Steel – Type BSOS & Series CFBSOS
- Steel Zinc – Type BSO
- Steel Zinc – Type SO & Series CFSO
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.
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 Set Screws Updated for 2023
Posted: March 22, 2023 Filed under: Fasteners, Inch, Metric, Set Screw, Socket Products, Socket Set Screws, Socket Set Screws Cone Point, Socket Set Screws Cup Point, Socket Set Screws Flat Point, Socket Set Screws Half-Dog Point, Socket Set Screws Knurled Cup Point, Socket Set Screws Nylon Tip, Socket Set Screws Oval Point, Threaded Fasteners | Tags: ASME B18.3, Cone Point, Cup point, Fasteners, Flat Point, Half-Dog, Hardware, Knurled Cup Point, Mechanical Fasteners, Nylon Tip, Oval Point, Set Screw, Socket Set Screws, Threaded Fasteners 1 Comment8 Things to Know When Buying Set Screws
Our goal is to help simplify the buying process for this sometimes-complex category of fasteners by detailing the most critical things you must know when buying Set Screws.
1. What is a Set Screw?
A Set Screw is a fully threaded headless screw that is traditionally classified within the socket family of products. It is generally used to fasten an object within or against another object by exerting pressure rather than holding parts together with threads. It is normally used without a nut.
2. Who uses Set Screws?
Set Screws are used in many industrial and mechanical devices, particularly in assemblies with rotating items such as pulleys or wheels, where a component is locked onto a shaft. Designed to fasten one object inside another, Set Screws pass right through a threaded hole in the outer object and are tightened against the inner object. Pretty cool, right?
3. What materials and platings are available?
The most common Set Screw material options are alloy steel and stainless steel. Brass is a less popular and less available option.
The most commonly available material is hardened alloy steel with a thermal black oxide finish, as per ASME B18.3 and a Rockwell hardness of C45-53.
Stainless steel grades 18-8/303 and Metric A2 are also commonly available. Other exotic materials such as brass, 316 or A4 stainless steel, 4140 steel, 416, A286 or special finishes including zinc plating may be available for special order with a lead time.
Socket Set Screws come standard with 3A thread fit. Some sizes and materials may be available with nylon patches or pellets.
Set screws with a slotted drive are made with a 2A thread fit.
4. What sizes are available?
In our experience, Set Screws are most commonly available in sizes 2-56 through 1″ diameter in imperial and M2-M24 in metric diameters with a hex socket drive on one end and a cup point on the other.
5. What information should I provide to get an accurate quote?
The easiest way to order is by part number. The most popular manufacturers of Set Screws are Holo-Krome, Blue Devil and Misumi, along with the national catalog houses like McMaster-Carr, Grainger and MSC Industrial.
If you don’t have a part number, you’ll need to provide the diameter and thread, the body length, drive and tip type, material and plating.
6. Other than size, material and plating, what other options are available?
The other main considerations when selecting Set Screws are the drive and the point. We offer a comprehensive look at your options below.
Drives: The most common and readily available drive style is a hexagonal socket drive (think Allen wrench), however, Set Screws may also be available in slotted, six-lobe (Torx) and spline drives for certain sizes.
Points: This is where it gets interesting. The point of the Set Screw determines its function. Seven (yes, seven!) main points are available, each serving a slightly different purpose.
- Cup – The most common style, which is slightly cupped to meet the surface of the inner object. Used for permanent or semi-permanent installations, the Cup point provides a high level of security and control. (Metric DIN 916)
- Knurled Cup – A variation of the Cup point, this style has knurls for a stronger grip.
- Cone – A very sharp point wedges into the inner object to hold it permanently in place. With the highest holding power of all Set Screw styles, the Cone point is used for permanent settings. Note: Cone point Set Screws may cause damage to the inner object which might not be desirable in some applications. (DIN 914)
- Flat – Designed for flexibility when frequently resetting or relocating objects on hard steel shafts where minimal damage to the shaft is desired. Affordable and easy to install, Flat point Set Screws can be moved without damaging the inner object. (DIN 913)
- Oval – The Oval point is the inverse of the Cup point. The small rounded contact surface allows slight adjustments without loosening the screw and causes minimal surface damage to the inner object. The Oval point Set Screw is the most practical type for situations where the inner and outer objects require regular adjustments.
- Half-Dog – Sometimes offered as a Full-Dog point, its protruding tip locks within a mating hole or slot in the shaft, for permanent setting. Half-dog/Dog points are sometimes used instead of a dowel pin. (DIN 915)
- Nylon tip – Resembling a Half-Dog point, the soft nylon tip is used to grip curved or textured surfaces.
7. What other factors should I consider?
We’ve covered the most common variables including head style, diameter and thread, length, material and plating or finish. Does your project specify Inch (Imported or Domestic), Metric, OEM brand or Mil-Spec? Here are a few of the other considerations you might be faced with based on the project and the bill of materials:
We’ve covered the most common variables including head style, diameter and thread, length, material and plating or finish. Here are a few of the other considerations you might be faced with based on the project and the bill of materials:
Do you need domestic parts (i.e. Holo-Krome) or will imported screws work?
Do you require parts that conform to a specific mil-spec number, such as AN565, NAS1081, MS18063, MS18064, MS18065, MS18066, MS18067, MS18068, MS21342, MS51017, MS51021, MS51022, MS51023, MS51025, MS51026, MS51029, MS51031, MS51033,MS51038, MS51040, MS51045, MS51047, MS51053, MS51476, MS51477, MS51963, MS51964, MS51965, MS51966, MS51973,MS51974, MS51976, MS51977, MS51981, MS51982 with their exacting tolerances and traceability, or will standard commercial parts work?
Does your bill of materials call out a specific manufacturer, such as Holo-Krome or Blue Devil?
Make sure you have the correct installation hardware (Allen wrench or hex key) to go along with your Set Screws.
8. What level of certification is required?
Generally, a Certificate of Conformance or a COC is sufficient for your customer. Full certification with material certs, DFARS certification and test reports are often available for USA-made and mil-spec parts for a fee.
- The full range of commercial and Mil-spec parts, including parts that are DFARS and ROHS compliant.
- Brand names (Holo-Krome, Blue Devil) and generic equivalents.
- Custom-made parts per print in non-standard and exotic materials and finishes.
For more detailed information about Set Screws, to request a line card, or to send an RFQ, visit our website. And if you don’t see what you need listed, as always, ask us. “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.
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.
MS16555 Dowel Pins in Stock!
Posted: March 2, 2023 Filed under: Domestic Fasteners, dowel pin | Tags: dowel pins, Fasteners, MS16555 Leave a commentAt MF Supply, we have a large selection of Precision Dowel Pins and Mil-Spec Hardware. The product we want to highlight today is the MS16555 Dowel Pin.
What is the Mil-Spec Dowel Pin MS16555?
The MS16555 is a stainless steel, cylindrical, solid, and headless fastener. The MS16555 is classified as a Mil-spec fastener, made to a specific exacting standard that defines in detail, the screw’s attributes, including: dimensions, tensile strength, hardness, threads, drive type, material qualities and plating, just to name a few. Mil-spec is the informal name for the military standard the U.S. Department of Defense uses in the production of military equipment. Mil-spec fasteners are usually designated by an AN, MS, NAS or NASM prefix followed by a part number. Each of these prefixes is an abbreviation: NAS stands for National Aerospace Standard and MS stands for Military Standard.
Dowel Pin Uses
Dowel pins are broadly used in various applications, including aerospace, electrical motors, hydraulic equipment, instrumentation, and more.
They’re used as a hinge, shaft, or pivot, and are used to locate or hold parts together within a precision assembly or a fixture, often when things are moving within that assembly.
MS16555 Dowel Pin Options
The MS16555 series is classified as a press fit style dowel pin with a diameter tolerance -0/+ .0002 over nominal size. These Mil-spec dowel pins are DFAR & RoHS compliant & may be requested with manufacturers COC & Full material certifications.
Materials:
- 416 or 400 series hardened stainless steel
- Plain alloy steel
- Phosphate finished alloy steel
MS16555-1 through MS16555-145 are Alloy Steel plain finish
MS16555-301 through MS16555-444 are Alloy Steel phosphate finish
MS16555-601 through MS16555-744 are 410 or 416 CRES Stainless Steel hardened with passivation.
Sizes:
Diameters range from 1/16 (.0626-.0628) through 1 inch (1.0003-1.0001). Lengths range from 3/16 to 6 inched long. For price and availability, send us an RFQ directly from our product pages.
Why Choose MF Supply for MS16555 Dowel Pins?
- The MS16555 Dowel Pin is our most popular military spec dowel pin
- They are made in the USA and are DFAR compliant.
- Certification paperwork is available.
- We have extensive stock, in NJ and at our distribution centers, which means no delay in delivery.
Learn More About MF Supply and our Products
We are excited for you to know that some products lines including CRES series MS16555 are available for purchase on-line. Additional dowel pin & mil-spec resources include:
Buyer’s Guide to Mil-spec fasteners
We stock a huge selection of Mil-spec fasteners in both Alloy & Stainless Steel with full DFAR & RoHS paperwork. Factory drop ship available for thousands of parts!
If you are interested in learning more about these dowel pins or any of our other fasteners or PPE, contact us today!
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.
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.
The Buyer’s Guide to Self-Clinching Fasteners You Must Have! Refreshed for 2023!
Posted: February 14, 2023 Filed under: Brand equivalents, Captive Self-Clinching, PEM Self-Clinching | Tags: Fasteners, Hardware, manufacturing, PEM, Self-Clinching Leave a commentMF Supply continues to expand our offering of products available for purchase online. We are thrilled to offer Self-clinching fasteners available from stock that can be purchased on our website or by email, phone or fax. We are an authorized distributor for Captive Fasteners, a US based manufacturer since 1974, with a factory right here in our NJ backyard!
What are Self-clinching fasteners?
Self-clinching fasteners are generally classified as part of the electronic hardware or precision engineered fastener family and are not governed by IFI, ANSI or ASME standards. A self-clinching fastener, also known as press-fit or clinch style captive fastener, is a part that when pressed into a drilled, punched or machined hole, provides an economical method of joining sheet metal panel applications and is well-suited for use in printed circuit boards.
Self-clinching fasteners are used in many industries; both commercial and aerospace.
Self-clinching Fasteners available at MF Supply
MF Supply offers the full catalog of Captive branded fasteners & PEM® equivalents in inch & metric sizes. We have the following parts available for purchase online, in stock and ready to ship from our national distribution centers:
- Self-Clinching Standoffs: Alt to PEM® Type BSO, BSOS,SO Captive CFBSOS, CFSO
- Self-Clinching Studs: Alt to PEM® Type FH, FHS, KFH Captive CH, CHS, CKFH
- Self-Clinching Nuts: Alt to PEM® Type S, CLS Captive Series C, CS in Inch & Metric
Additional Series available include, but are not limited to, floating, self-locking, blind-hole, flush, and broaching fasteners.
How do they work?
Self-clinching fasteners work by displacing the host material around the mounting hole, causing it to cold flow into a specially designed annular recess. Knurls, serrated rings or ribs on the fastener hold them firmly in place. Self-clinching fasteners become an integral permanent part of the panel or frame and eliminate problems associated with loose hardware. Installation requires access to both sides of the panel and self-clinching fasteners may be installed using any parallel acting squeezing force.
What are the advantages of Self-Clinching fasteners?
Self-clinching fasteners provide strong thread in very thin material & offer high push out and torque out resistance. They take less space and require fewer assembly operations than caged or anchor nuts. They can be installed during fabrication or during final assembly and work well in applications when loose hardware wouldn’t be accessible.
Some of the key advantages include:
- No special hole preparation, such as chamfering and deburring is required.
- Low installed costs, fewer parts to handle, fewer assembly steps and less assembly time.
- No retapping necessary after application.
What are the differences between branded fasteners like PEM & Captive and generic Self-clinching fasteners?
Self-clinching hardware is frequently referred to by the OEM brand name PEM®. Captive Fastener is a USA based manufacturer and offers functional equivalents to PEM® branded self-clinching fasteners. In addition to PEM® & Captive, there are a variety of manufacturers of self-clinching fasteners available in the marketplace including the major national catalog brands. Functional alternatives will be equivalent in form fit and function and offer similar performance.
To see if using alternative brands or functional equivalents will work for your business, refer to our handy guide.
We have also included a cross reference lookup table for PEM® product types vs. Captive product series below.
Also, watch our video below!
What information for 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 fastener type & style, thread diameter & pitch, fastener length, material and plating. For example: a 10-32 X 3/8 Flush Head Self-Clinching Stud Steel Zinc plated can also be ordered as a PEM® FH-032-6, (or a PEM® FH-032-6-ZI as sometimes PEM® calls out the plating) or a Captive CH1032-6. This part is also offered by a national catalog brand under part number 93580A166.
Additional Series available include, but are not limited to, floating, self-locking, blind-hole, flush, and broaching fasteners.
We Invite You To Request a Quote, Download a Guide or a Line Card Today!
- Full ecommerce enabled website with technical manual available 24/7
- Same day drop ship from factory for thousands of items.
- Functional Equivalents to expensive brand name fasteners save money and reduce long lead times.
- Creatively solve problems including hard to find parts and long lead times
- WBE/WOSB Woman Owned Certified Small Business.
Seeking parts not listed for purchase on our website? We’ve got you covered! Submit your RFQ for your PEM®, Captive® or equivalent Self-Clinching parts, and our team of experts can help source your needs!
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 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/3MFOMfm
The Buyer’s Guide to Self-Clinching Fasteners You Must Have!
Posted: June 16, 2022 Filed under: Brand equivalents, Captive Self-Clinching, PEM Self-Clinching | Tags: Fasteners, Hardware, manufacturing, PEM, Self-Clinching Leave a commentThrough our extensive assortment of OEM brand names and equivalents, we offer our customers quality imported and domestic self-clinching options
Read More https://conta.cc/3MFOMfm
Self Clinching Fasteners At MF Supply
Posted: October 15, 2021 Filed under: Captive Self-Clinching, PEM Self-Clinching | Tags: Fasteners, Hardware, Self-Clinching Leave a comment
Self-clinching fasteners are classified as part of the electronic hardware family, and they’re not governed by some of the IFI or ANSI standards. At MF Supply, we are a Captive distributor; this is one of the major brand names in the self-clinching world. Captive is an alternative to the PEM brand, which we also sell.
Self Clinching Fasteners Available at MF Supply https://conta.cc/3DDsqXO
Self-Clinching Fasteners
Posted: December 22, 2020 Filed under: Captive Self-Clinching, PEM Self-Clinching | Tags: Fasteners, Self-Clinching Leave a commentWhat is a Self-Clinching Fastener?
Self-clenching fasteners are classified as part of the electronic hardware family, and they’re not governed by some of the IFI or ANSI standards.
They are known as press bit or cling-style and provide an economical method of joining sheet metal panel applications and printed circuit boards.
They are used in the aerospace and commercial industries.
At MF Supply, we are a Captive distributor; this is one of the major brand names in the self-clinching world. Captive is an alternative to the PEM brand, which we also sell.
Self-Clinching Product Categories
You can also check out our Self-Clinching cross reference sheet here.
Learn More About Self-Clinching Fasteners
If you are interested in learning more about our self-clinching fasteners, contact us today!
Who is MF Supply?
Posted: August 6, 2020 Filed under: Personal Protective Equipment, Women in Manufacturing | Tags: Fasteners, Hardware, PPE, Safety Leave a commentMF Supply is your go-to partner for all of your fastener, precision hardware, and safety/ PPE needs! We have been supplying many businesses, industries, and government agencies with our quality products for over 50 years.
MF Supply Certifications
11 years ago, MF Supply became a women-owned business and has since been certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE)! We also hold many other certifications and are registered in SAM, The System for Award Management. What this means for our customers is that we meet the needs of businesses who are looking to buy from and work with smaller women-owned businesses.
MF Supply Products
We have two divisions of products here at MF Supply- Hardware and Safety!
Fasteners and Precision Hardware
Many of our customers are manufacturers, and we supply them with the high-quality fasteners and precision hardware they need to meet specifications for their machines, equipment, and instruments.
Safety and Personal Protection Division
We also supply our customers with a wide variety of safety and personal protection equipment.
What Industries Does MF Supply Serve?
We have a very diverse customer base ranging from manufacturing, with a niche in aerospace engineering, to government agencies, municipalities, health care facilities and many more.
Where Does MF Supply Ship?
Our main office is based in New Jersey, but we also have locations and distribution centers across the country. As such, we have customers all over the world from the United States and Canada to Puerto Rico, Japan, Malaysia, and Europe.
Learn More About the Right Screw for You and Safety Too
If you are looking for high-quality hardware, fasteners, safety equipment, and personal protection equipment, MF Supply is here for you! Contact us today to learn more and check out our online store to browse our inventory.
Buyer’s Guide to Set Screws
Posted: January 29, 2018 Filed under: Fasteners, Inch, Metric, Set Screw, Socket Products, Socket Set Screws, Socket Set Screws Cone Point, Socket Set Screws Cup Point, Socket Set Screws Flat Point, Socket Set Screws Half-Dog Point, Socket Set Screws Knurled Cup Point, Socket Set Screws Nylon Tip, Socket Set Screws Oval Point, Threaded Fasteners | Tags: ASME B18.3, Cone Point, Cup point, Fasteners, Flat Point, Half-Dog, Hardware, Knurled Cup Point, Mechanical Fasteners, Nylon Tip, Oval Point, Set Screw, Socket Set Screws, Threaded Fasteners Leave a comment8 Things to Know When Buying Set Screws
Our goal is to help simplify the buying process for this sometimes-complex category of fasteners by detailing the most critical things you must know when buying Set Screws.
1. What is a Set Screw?
A Set Screw is a fully threaded headless screw that is traditionally classified within the socket family of products. It is generally used to fasten an object within or against another object by exerting pressure rather than holding parts together with threads. It is normally used without a nut.
2. Who uses Set Screws?
Set Screws are used in many industrial and mechanical devices, particularly in assemblies with rotating items such as pulleys or wheels, where a component is locked onto a shaft. Designed to fasten one object inside another, Set Screws pass right through a threaded hole in the outer object and are tightened against the inner object. Pretty cool, right?
3. What materials and platings are available?
The most common Set Screw material options are alloy steel and stainless steel. Brass is a less popular and less available option.
The most commonly available material is hardened alloy steel with a thermal black oxide finish, as per ASME B18.3 and a Rockwell hardness of C45-53.
Stainless steel grades 18-8/303 and Metric A2 are also commonly available. Other exotic materials such as brass, 316 or A4 stainless steel, 4140 steel, 416, A286 or special finishes including zinc plating may be available for special order with a lead time.
Socket Set Screws come standard with 3A thread fit. Some sizes and materials may be available with nylon patches or pellets.
Set screws with a slotted drive are made with a 2A thread fit.
4. What sizes are available?
In our experience, Set Screws are most commonly available in sizes 2-56 through 1″ diameter in imperial and M2-M24 in metric diameters with a hex socket drive on one end and a cup point on the other.
5. What information should I provide to get an accurate quote?
The easiest way to order is by part number. The most popular manufacturers of Set Screws are Holo-Krome, Blue Devil and Misumi, along with the national catalog houses like McMaster-Carr, Grainger and MSC Industrial.
If you don’t have a part number, you’ll need to provide the diameter and thread, the body length, drive and tip type, material and plating.
6. Other than size, material and plating, what other options are available?
The other main considerations when selecting Set Screws are the drive and the point. We offer a comprehensive look at your options below.
Drives: The most common and readily available drive style is a hexagonal socket drive (think Allen wrench), however, Set Screws may also be available in slotted, six-lobe (Torx) and spline drives for certain sizes.
Points: This is where it gets interesting. The point of the Set Screw determines its function. Seven (yes, seven!) main points are available, each serving a slightly different purpose.
- Cup – The most common style, which is slightly cupped to meet the surface of the inner object. Used for permanent or semi-permanent installations, the Cup point provides a high level of security and control. (Metric DIN 916)
- Knurled Cup – A variation of the Cup point, this style has knurls for a stronger grip.
- Cone – A very sharp point wedges into the inner object to hold it permanently in place. With the highest holding power of all Set Screw styles, the Cone point is used for permanent settings. Note: Cone point Set Screws may cause damage to the inner object which might not be desirable in some applications. (DIN 914)
- Flat – Designed for flexibility when frequently resetting or relocating objects on hard steel shafts where minimal damage to the shaft is desired. Affordable and easy to install, Flat point Set Screws can be moved without damaging the inner object. (DIN 913)
- Oval – The Oval point is the inverse of the Cup point. The small rounded contact surface allows slight adjustments without loosening the screw and causes minimal surface damage to the inner object. The Oval point Set Screw is the most practical type for situations where the inner and outer objects require regular adjustments.
- Half-Dog – Sometimes offered as a Full-Dog point, its protruding tip locks within a mating hole or slot in the shaft, for permanent setting. Half-dog/Dog points are sometimes used instead of a dowel pin. (DIN 915)
- Nylon tip – Resembling a Half-Dog point, the soft nylon tip is used to grip curved or textured surfaces.
7. What other factors should I consider?
We’ve covered the most common variables including head style, diameter and thread, length, material and plating or finish. Does your project specify Inch (Imported or Domestic), Metric, OEM brand or Mil-Spec? Here are a few of the other considerations you might be faced with based on the project and the bill of materials:
We’ve covered the most common variables including head style, diameter and thread, length, material and plating or finish. Here are a few of the other considerations you might be faced with based on the project and the bill of materials:
Do you need domestic parts (i.e. Holo-Krome) or will imported screws work?
Do you require parts that conform to a specific mil-spec number, such as AN565, NAS1081, MS18063, MS18064, MS18065, MS18066, MS18067, MS18068, MS21342, MS51017, MS51021, MS51022, MS51023, MS51025, MS51026, MS51029, MS51031, MS51033,MS51038, MS51040, MS51045, MS51047, MS51053, MS51476, MS51477, MS51963, MS51964, MS51965, MS51966, MS51973,MS51974, MS51976, MS51977, MS51981, MS51982 with their exacting tolerances and traceability, or will standard commercial parts work?
Does your bill of materials call out a specific manufacturer, such as Holo-Krome or Blue Devil?
Make sure you have the correct installation hardware (Allen wrench or hex key) to go along with your Set Screws.
8. What level of certification is required?
Generally, a Certificate of Conformance or a COC is sufficient for your customer. Full certification with material certs, DFARS certification and test reports are often available for USA-made and mil-spec parts for a fee.
- The full range of commercial and Mil-spec parts, including parts that are DFARS and ROHS compliant.
- Brand names (Holo-Krome, Blue Devil) and generic equivalents.
- Custom-made parts per print in non-standard and exotic materials and finishes.
For more detailed information about Set Screws, to request a line card, or to send an RFQ, visit our website. And if you don’t see what you need listed, as always, ask us. “Finding the right screw for you” is our tag line after all!
Contact me at robin@mfsupply.com with your questions, comments or helpful hints!