What are the types of metal fasteners?
Using the wrong fastener leads to weak joints, part failure, and costly repairs.
Metal fasteners include bolts, screws, rivets, anchors, nuts, washers, and clips. Each fastener type handles different loads, materials, and assembly methods.
At Prime, we manufacture and supply a complete range of metal fasteners, tested for strength, corrosion resistance, and fit—customized for industries like construction, automotive, and heavy machinery.
What are the 4 types of metal fasteners?
Metal fasteners cover more than just bolts—you need to know the basic groups.
The four main types of metal fasteners are bolts, screws, rivets, and clips. They cover structural joining, surface attachment, and quick-fix applications.
Prime’s CNC and stamping lines produce all four types, available with coatings like zinc plating, hot-dip galvanizing, black oxide, or PTFE for harsh environments.
Metal Fastener Basics
| Fastener Type | Main Function | Best Application |
|---|---|---|
| Bolt | High-load structural clamping | Machines, steel frames |
| Screw | Threaded direct fastening | Wood, metal, plastics |
| Rivet | Permanent fastening | Aerospace, enclosures |
| Clip | Snap-fit, tool-free connection | Automotive, electronics |
A European client in industrial automation replaced 80% of their mechanical joints with Prime bolts and spring clips, cutting installation time by 25%.
What are 7 types of fasteners?
Beyond basic bolts and screws, modern builds use a wider range of fasteners.
The seven most common fasteners are bolts, screws, nuts, washers, rivets, anchors, and clips. Together, they meet structural, mechanical, and installation needs.
At Prime, we offer full-system fastener kits sorted by project phase—saving clients time and avoiding missing parts during builds.
Fastener Type Summary
| Type | Key Use |
|---|---|
| Bolt | Strong clamping with a nut |
| Screw | Threaded into material |
| Nut | Secures bolt from opposite side |
| Washer | Spreads load, protects surfaces |
| Rivet | Permanent joint |
| Anchor | Mounts parts to concrete, masonry |
| Clip | Snap-fit panels, trims, wires |
For a Middle East solar field project, we supplied all 7 fastener types, with corrosion protection rated for 25+ years in outdoor exposure.
What is a metal fastener called?
Metal fasteners have dozens of names based on their shape, load rating, and use case.
A metal fastener is any mechanical device that joins or holds materials together using bolts, screws, rivets, clips, or anchors.
Different names describe how they work—clamping, threading, snapping, or locking. Prime fasteners come certified with material, load, and environmental ratings for reliable global use.
Metal Fastener Examples
| Fastener Name | Function |
|---|---|
| Hex Bolt | High-torque structural joins |
| Machine Screw | Precision metal fastening |
| Blind Rivet | One-sided permanent assembly |
| Expansion Anchor | Concrete mounting |
| U-Clip | Snap-fit onto panel edges |
Our automotive clients especially value Prime’s fastener coding and packaging, making warehouse picking simple and mistake-free.
What are the different types of fastener clips?
Fastener clips handle light loads, panels, and wire management—without tools.
Types of fastener clips include U-clips, J-clips, spring clips, panel edge clips, push retainers, and circlips. Each type is built for different holding forces and materials.
Prime custom-manufactures clip fasteners in stainless, carbon steel, and coated spring steel, tuned for specific insertion forces and durability.
Fastener Clip Types
| Clip Type | Common Application |
|---|---|
| U-Clip | Trim panels, auto interiors |
| J-Clip | Sheet metal joins |
| Spring Clip | Tool-free mechanical hold |
| Edge Clip | Cable routing on panel edges |
| Push Retainer | Automotive bumpers, interiors |
| Circlip | Axle and bearing retention |
One European EV maker reduced cabin rattle by switching to Prime-designed spring clips—custom-shaped for a perfect snap fit and vibration resistance.
Conclusion
Metal fasteners include bolts, screws, rivets, clips, nuts, washers, and anchors—each built to deliver the right hold, tension, and protection across different applications.
Need ISO-certified metal fasteners customized for your project? Contact Prime today for a free consultation, sizing advice, and bulk order support, with fast global delivery and guaranteed quality.
