Day 6 - Threaded for Precision: Understanding Fastener Thread Types & Global Standards | Fasteners Training

Lead Content Writer, Arslok
Jul 23
2 min read

When it comes to fasteners, strength isn’t the only factor that determines performance.

One of the most overlooked — yet critical — elements in the fastener world is the thread type. Choosing the wrong thread standard can lead to misalignment, stripping, fatigue failure, or worse — a total breakdown of your assembly.

Let’s break down the three major thread types used globally and why it matters for every manufacturer, distributor, and end user.

🔩 1. Metric Threads (ISO)

Used in: Europe, Asia, India, and globally standardized sectors
Designation Example: M10 × 1.5
Strength: Uniform and globally accepted
Ideal for: Automotive, engineering, machinery, OEM exports

Why it matters:

If you’re exporting or working with European/Japanese systems, metric is the international language of fasteners. Clean dimensions, consistent torque specs, and global recognition make this the safest bet for precision work.

🔩 2. UNC/UNF Threads (Unified)

Used in: United States, Canada
Designation Example: 1/2”-13 UNC
Strength: Coarse (UNC) for strength; Fine (UNF) for precision
Ideal for: Aerospace, defense, legacy American machinery

Why it matters:

Selling to or sourcing from North America? Then Unified threads are not optional — they’re the standard. Misuse can result in cross-threading and costly reworks.

🔩 3. BSW (British Standard Whitworth)

Used in: UK legacy systems, older Indian manufacturing
Designation Example: 1/2” BSW
Strength: Strong but outdated
Ideal for: Heavy industry, construction, older plants

Why it matters:

Although largely phased out, BSW threads are still found in old machines, railway systems, and legacy tools. Replacing or repairing these systems demands BSW-compatible fasteners — not modern replacements.

🛠️ One Thread Doesn’t Fit All

Mixing standards is a silent killer in fastener performance. Misfits can lead to:

Thread stripping
Inconsistent torque
Poor vibration resistance
Fastener failure in critical assemblies

In industries where precision is non-negotiable, knowing your threads is the difference between a trusted supplier and a liability.

🚀 Why Indian Fastener Manufacturers Must Get This Right

India is emerging as a global fastener powerhouse. But in many plants, technical knowledge is still tribal — passed through experience, not structured training.

That’s where Arslok comes in.

🎯 Arslok: India’s Only Specialized Fasteners Training Partner

At Arslok, we offer end-to-end Fastener Training — both Technical & Sales-focused — tailored for:

✅ Plant teams & QA professionals
✅ Dealer networks & OEM sales teams
✅ Export & compliance teams
✅ New recruits & growing distributors

👨‍🏫 Meet Our Chief Trainer: Maninder Singh Sond

With 22+ years of experience in fasteners, power tools, and industrial sales, Maninder has worked with top brands across India and the globe. He understands not just the product — but the buyer, the pain point, and the solution.

He simplifies complex technical subjects into client-ready insights and trains teams to not just know more — but sell more, with confidence.