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Fastners use in 3D printed parts

Fasteners are often used in 3D printed parts to add strength, functionality, and the ability to assemble multiple components. While 3D printed parts can be designed to be self-locking or snap-fit in some cases, fasteners are necessary when a more secure or adjustable connection is required.

Hex Socket Bolt (Allen Head Screw): Mostly used M2,M3.
A Hex Socket Bolt is also commonly referred to as a Hexagon Socket Head Cap Screw or simply a Socket Head Cap Screw.

The “hex” refers to the hexagonal-shaped recess in the bolt’s head, which is designed to be driven with a hex key or Allen wrench. These bolts are typically used when a low-profile, high-strength fastener is required.

Other terms you might encounter for this fastener include:

Allen Bolt (because it’s driven with an Allen wrench)

Hex Socket Cap Screw

Socket Head Bolt

These bolts are often used in machinery, automotive, and construction applications due to their strength and ease of installation.

Nut:
As you know mostly used M2 M3 bolts that’s why M2 M3 nuts are used.

An M3 nut is a metric nut designed to fit a bolt or screw with a 3 mm diameter. It’s typically used in conjunction with an M3 bolt (which has a 3 mm diameter and a 0.5 mm thread pitch).

Some common types of M3 nuts include:

1. Hex Nut: The most common type, with a six-sided shape, designed to be tightened with a wrench or socket.

2. Wing Nut: A nut with “wings” on either side, allowing for hand tightening without tools.

3. Lock Nut: A nut with a built-in feature (like a nylon insert or a deformed thread) that helps prevent loosening due to vibration.

4. Flange Nut: A nut with a wide flange at the base that acts as a washer to distribute pressure more evenly.

M3 nuts are typically made from materials such as steel, stainless steel, or brass, depending on the intended application.

Washers:

An M3 washer is a flat washer designed to fit bolts, screws, or fasteners with an M3 size (3 mm diameter). Washers are used to distribute the load of a fastener, prevent damage to the surface being fastened, reduce friction, and sometimes provide a sealing function.

Common types of M3 washers include:

1. Flat Washer: The most common type, which is a simple ring with a hole that fits around the shank of the bolt or screw. It helps distribute the load and prevent damage to the material.

2. Spring Washer (or Lock Washer): These washers are designed with a slightly curved shape that helps create a spring action, preventing the fastener from loosening due to vibration or pressure.

3. Fender Washer: A type of flat washer with a larger outer diameter compared to standard washers, providing more surface area to distribute the load.

4. Lock Washer (External/Internal): Prevents loosening of the fastener under vibration by exerting pressure against the bolt and the surface it’s being fastened to.

Materials:

M3 washers can be made from a variety of materials, including:

Steel (zinc-plated or galvanized for corrosion resistance)

Stainless steel (for higher corrosion resistance)

Brass

Nylon (for electrical insulation)

Philips head screw (M3 self tapping screw)

A Phillips head screw M3 refers to a screw with the following characteristics:

Thread Size: The “M3” indicates that the screw has a 3 mm nominal diameter and follows the metric system. The thread pitch for a typical M3 screw is 0.5 mm.

Phillips Drive: The screw has a cross-shaped recess in the head designed for a Phillips screwdriver or bit, which helps in better torque transmission and minimizes slippage during driving.

Length: M3 Phillips screws come in various lengths, typically ranging from 3 mm to 50 mm or more, depending on the application.

Common Uses:

Electronics: Often used in small electronic devices or circuit boards.

Mechanical and assembly work: Common in machinery, automotive parts, or precision equipment where small screws are needed.

Furniture: For assembling small components in certain types of furniture.

Materials:

M3 Phillips screws can be made from various materials like:

Steel (commonly zinc-plated or coated for rust protection)

Stainless steel (for corrosion resistance)

Brass (for electrical applications or aesthetic purposes)


Inserts:

M3 inserts refer to threaded inserts designed to fit M3-sized screws (3 mm in diameter). These inserts are used to create durable, threaded holes in materials like wood, plastic, or metal, where the original material may not be strong enough to hold a threaded screw directly. They provide a strong internal thread for M3 screws, enhancing the holding strength and reducing wear over time.

Common Types of M3 Inserts:

1. Helicoil Inserts:

Spiral-shaped inserts made from stainless steel wire, typically used to repair stripped or damaged threads in soft metals or plastics.

• They create a durable internal thread for M3 screws and are often used in automotive, aerospace, and engineering applications.

2. Press-fit Inserts (or Insert Nuts):

• These are typically made of brass or stainless steel and have external knurls or threads to help them grip into the material when pressed or hammered in.

• They provide a reliable thread for an M3 screw and are often used in materials like plastic, wood, or soft metals.

3. Threaded Bushings:

• These are cylindrical metal inserts with internal threads for M3 screws and an external flange that provides extra support when installed.

• Used in applications where a more robust insert is needed.

4. Self-Threading Inserts:

• Made of metal, these inserts have the ability to cut their own threads into the material as they are screwed in.

• Useful in softer materials like wood or plastic.

Uses of M3 Inserts:

Woodworking: For installing metal hardware into wood where thread durability is required.

Plastic fabrication: For creating strong threaded holes in plastic components.

Metal repair: To repair damaged or worn-out threads, allowing an M3 screw to function properly again.

3D Printing: M3 inserts can be used in 3D printed parts to provide threads for screws.

Materials:

Brass: Commonly used for soft materials like plastic and wood.

Stainless Steel: Often used for applications requiring corrosion resistance or high strength.

Aluminum: Sometimes used in lightweight applications.

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