Ultimate Guide: Inch, Metric, and Mil-Spec Precision Shoulder Screws Cross Reference Charts and Guide
Posted: July 25, 2024 Filed under: Cross Reference Charts, DFARS, Functional Equivalents, Mil-Spec, MS51575, MS51576, Precision Shoulder Screws, Shoulder Bolts, Shoulder Screws | Tags: Cross Reference Guide, Functional Equivalents, Mcmaster-Carr 94035A208, Metric Shoulder Bolts, Metric Shoulder Screws, Mil Spec Shoulder Screws, Mil-Spec Shoulder Screws, Precision Manufacturers, Precision Shoulder Screws Leave a comment
At MF Supply, we spend a lot of time sourcing hard to find, back ordered, expensive, or out-of-stock OEM hardware brands. We do this in order to save money and to reduce long lead times for our customers, without sacrificing quality. One of our core competencies is crossing brand names to functionally equivalent parts that maybe Mil-spec, alternative brands or generic parts.
What Is a Functional Equivalent Fastener?
In the fastener industry, a functional equivalent fastener is a component/part that matches a brand-name product in form, fit, and function, including material and plating specifications, but is produced by a different manufacturer. As a result, the industrial marketplace features a myriad of fasteners and components that are registered under various trademark brands, but that offer the same functionality. This, in turn, allows you to achieve the same product performance and quality desired at a potential lower cost and with shorter lead times than you would get with fasteners from well know or expensive brands.
Does My OEM Brand Have A Functional Equivalent or Alternative Fastener?
Many OEM brands available in the industry today have generic functional equivalents or alternatives. Below is a comprehensive list of popular brand names that show up quite often in the fasteners space and that have generic equivalent or alternative options to their OEM branded products:
3 Star Rivets USA, ABBATRON®, ALCOA, AMATOM®, APEX®, ARCONIC®, ATLAS®, AVDEL®, AVK®, B. F. GOODRICH, BOLLHOFF, BUCKEYE, CAPTIVE, CELUS®, CHERRY®, CONCORD, FASTENAL, GESIPA®, GLOBE ELECTRONICS, GRIPCO®, H. H. SMITH, HELICOIL®, HOWMET, HUCK, INDUX, INTERFAST, KATO®, KEENSERT®, KEYSTONE, LOCTITE®, LYN-TRON, MACLEAN ESNA®, MARSON®, MCMASTER-CARR, MISUMI, MSC INDUSTRIAL, PEM®, PIC DESIGN®, POP®, POWERS®, QUICKSCREWS, RAF, RECOIL®, RED HEAD®, ROTOR CLIP®, SHEREX, SIMPSON, SOUTHCO®, SPS TECHNOLOGIES, TINNERMAN®, U. S. ANCHOR, UNICORP, VIP, W. M. BERG, W. W. GRAINGER, WALDES TRUARC®.
Do Precision Shoulder Screws Have Functional Equivalents?
Yes! Precisions shoulder screws, also known in the industry as just shoulder screws or tight tolerance shoulder screws, do have functional equivalents. In fact, one surefire way to save money and shorten delivery time is to cross the OEM branded precision shoulder screw on your bill of materials to a functional equivalent.
Popular brands in the precision shoulder screws space 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, MSC, and Grainger.
Let’s take, for example, the following inch/imperial sized precision shoulder screw: 3/16” shoulder diameter x 1” long x 8-32 thread in SS18-8 (300 Series) with a hex-socket drive. This shoulder screw is offered by the seven brands 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 locate precision shoulder screws by Mil-Spec numbers, which include MS51575 and MS51576; all of which are DFARS compliant with full paperwork/documentation. The above mentioned shoulder screw or part, for instance, is equivalent to a Mil-Spec MS51576-14.
At MF Supply, we offer an extensive cross-reference guide to help you discover the ideal alternative for your requirements. Explore our most popular precision shoulder screws cross reference charts below to find functional equivalents to your OEM-branded products!
Precision Shoulder Screws Cross-Reference Charts: Find OEM Brands and Functional Equivalents
Precision inch hex socket shoulder screws and precision inch slotted shoulder screws are available in 416 Series Stainless Steel. Stock sizes include 1/8 through 1/2 diameters.
Precision inch hex socket shoulder screws and precision inch slotted shoulder screws are also available in 300 Series Stainless Steel. Stock sizes include 1/8 through 1/2 diameters.
Precision metric hex socket shoulder screws are available in 18-8, 300 & 416 Series Stainless Steel. Stock sizes include M4 through M12 diameters.
Precision metric slotted socket shoulder screws are available in 18-8, 300 & 416 Series Stainless Steel. Stock sizes include M4 through M12 diameters.
Precision Mil-Spec hex socket shoulder screws, MS51576, are available in 300 Series Stainless Steel. Stock sizes include 4-40 through 3/8-16 diameters.
Precision Mil-Spec slotted socket shoulder screws, MS51575, are available in 300 Series Stainless Steel. Stock sizes include 1/8 through 1/2 diameters.
Using functional equivalents, including generics and other OEM brands’ versions of precision shoulder screws, is a practice smart manufacturer’s often use to save money and shorten lead times!
Precision Shoulder Screws at MF Supply
MF Supply is a leading supplier of precision shoulder screws including major brands and equivalents. We stock a huge inventory including parts that are commercial and mil-spec. Our Mil-Spec products are DFAR compliant with COC and full certifications available upon request.
Precision shoulder screws are available in imperial, mil-spec, and metric sizes, and in type 18-8/303, 300 Stainless Steel and in 416 Stainless Steel – 316 Stainless Steel, Alloy and other exotic materials are also available for special order.
Product Lines Include:
- Inch Precision Shoulder Screws
- Metric Precision Shoulder Screws
- Mil-Spec Precision Shoulder Screws – MS51575 & MS51576
Manufacturers working with us can expect timely deliveries, competitive pricing, and access to expert guidance to help optimize their fastener choices. Manufacturers eager to explore our product catalog, including our recently expanded product categories, are encouraged to visit our website at www.mfsupply.com, reach out to us at sales@mfsupply.com or request a quote. Our MF Supply team of sourcing experts will 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.
Your Purchasing Department’s Secret Weapon!
Here are 5 reasons to buy from MF Supply
- We Source and Deliver What Others Can’t, Faster Than You Imagined – With speedy solutions for elusive parts and lengthy delivery times – We’ve got you covered with both custom-made specials (send us your prints!) and hard-to-source options, quickly and at a fair price.
- Cost-Effective Functional Equivalents to OEM Brand Fasteners-Why Pay More? – Reduce lead times and costs with the same quality and same performance. Try us for alternatives to brands like McMaster-Carr, MSC, Misumi, PEM, and RAF and experience unmatched savings! Same form, fit and function for less.
- Huge Selection of Certified and Commercial Hardware with Same-day Shipping Available for Countless Items – We source and stock standards, specials, commercial, Mil-Spec & OEM brands in inch and metric sizes. Standards include AN, NAS, MS, IFI, ASTM, ASME, DIN, ISO, JIS. We are sourcing experts for inserts, certified Mil-Spec parts and anything in stainless steel. Many parts are available with manufacturers’ certifications, including DFAR, ROHS and CoC. Trust us to ship on-time from our national distribution centers.
- A User-Friendly, 24/7 Online Shopping Experience – Enjoy a 24/7 online shopping experience with easy-to-use filters, detailed product information, and a constantly updated technical directory. Sign up now for a seamless experience!
- WBE/WOSB Certified Woman-Owned Small Business – As a certified Woman-Owned Small Business, we support your diversity goals. Trust us to meet your fastener and sourcing needs with expertise and efficiency [Cage Code 58QG4].
Plastite® Alternative Screws? What the heck are those?
Posted: June 7, 2023 Filed under: Fasteners, Plastite Alternative Screws, Self-Tapping Screws, Thread-Cutting Screws, Thread-Forming Screws, Thread-Rolling Screws, Threaded Fasteners | Tags: Fasteners, For use with plastics, Mcmaster-Carr 94035A208, Plastic, Plastite Alternative Screws, Plastite Brand Generic Alternative Screws, Thermoplastic, Thread-Forming Screws, Thread-Rolling Screws, Trilobe Screws, Trilobular Screws Leave a comment
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.
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.
How Precision Shoulder Screws are Used in Robotics and Automation
Posted: May 30, 2023 Filed under: MS51575, MS51576, Precision Shoulder Screws | Tags: Mcmaster-Carr 94035A208, MS51575, MS51576 Leave a comment
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.
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.
Buyer’s Guide to Precision Shoulder Screws Refreshed for 2023!
Posted: May 23, 2023 Filed under: MS51575, MS51576, Precision Shoulder Screws | Tags: Mcmaster-Carr 94035A208 Leave a commentWelcome 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.
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.
Precision Shoulder Screws Buyer’s Guide
Posted: June 22, 2017 Filed under: MS51575, MS51576, Precision Shoulder Screws | Tags: Mcmaster-Carr 94035A208 Leave a comment
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.
Our goal is to make the buying process easier. This guide offers creative solutions to help you save money and reduce long lead times by educating you on your options, including how to use brand alternatives.
- 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 ANSI or ASME standard.
Precision shoulder screws are composed of three main parts: the head, the shoulder and the thread.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 offer:
- The full range of commercial and Mil-Spec parts, including parts that are DFARS and ROHS compliant.
- Brand names and generic equivalents.
- Custom made parts per print in non-standard and exotic materials and finishes.
- Inch and metric sizes.
For more detailed information about Precision Shoulder Screws, visit our website. And if you don’t see it listed, as always, ask us. “Finding the right screw for you” is our tag line after all!
For more than 40 years, MF Supply has helped American manufacturers streamline operations, saving them time and money with our sourcing expertise and unique supply chain strategies. We are a WBE/WOSB certified stocking distributor of fasteners and electronic components.
We work with the best-established factories in the United States and DFARS-certified countries, and stock a huge inventory including all major brands and equivalents. MF Supply provides solutions including: same-day drop ship direct from the factory; custom sizes, materials and plating options; and DFARS parts with full paperwork and Certificates of Conformance.
We creatively solve common problems including hard-to-find parts and long lead times. Our sourcing and reworking expertise includes fast turnaround for modification of existing parts, hard to find standards and specials, special threads, non-standard diameters and lengths, exotic materials, special platings and short runs. We provide functional equivalents to expensive brand name fasteners and help our customers save money while reducing lead times.
Follow our blog at http://blog.mfsupply.com/