A Complete Guide to Common Fastener Types: Applications and Selection Tips

In modern manufacturing, billions of connections rely on fasteners every day. Although small in size, fasteners play a critical role in structural integrity, safety and assembly efficiency. Proper selection directly affects product performance, service life and maintenance cost.
Fastener Expo Shanghai 2026, the 16th Shanghai Fastener Expo, will take place on June 24–26, 2026 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). With a focus on “fastener types and application systems,” the show will present comprehensive solutions for automotive, new energy, machinery, electronics and construction industries—offering a key reference for designers, buyers and manufacturers.

Core Functions and Main Categories
Fasteners are standardized components that connect parts by threads, shape or deformation. Their value lies in maintaining stable and safe connections under different loads, environments and life cycles.
Common types include:
- Bolts – used with nuts for high-load and shear applications
- Screws – driven directly into materials for efficient assembly
- Nuts – internal-thread fasteners used with bolts
- Washers – distribute load and prevent loosening
- Rivets and Anchors – for permanent joints and concrete fastening
Key Selection Principles
Proper selection should be based on application requirements:
✔ Load and strength level
✔ Frequency of disassembly
✔ Vibration, corrosion or temperature conditions
✔ Weight, appearance and conductivity requirements
Matching strength grade, material and structure ensures optimal performance and cost efficiency.
Typical Fastener Types and Uses
Bolts:
- Hex bolts for machinery and structures
- U-bolts for pipes and round components
- Anchor bolts for steel-to-concrete connections
Screws:
- Machine screws for metal assemblies
- Wood screws for timber structures
- Self-tapping screws for sheet metal and plastics
Nuts:
- Hex nuts for general use
- Lock nuts for vibration resistance
- Wing nuts for tool-free assembly
Washers:
- Flat washers for load distribution
- Spring washers for anti-loosening
- Lock washers for high-vibration environments
Fastener Expo Shanghai: An Industry Benchmark
After fifteen editions, Fastener Expo Shanghai has become one of the world’s three leading fastener exhibitions, and in 2025 it was the largest by scale globally. Fastener Expo Shanghai 2026 will showcase products, application scenarios and technical forums, helping engineers and buyers better understand fastener types and selection strategies.

As automotive, new energy and advanced equipment sectors demand higher connection reliability, fastener selection is evolving from experience-based to engineering-driven decisions. Fastener Expo Shanghai serves as a key platform to explore trends, connect resources and optimize design and procurement strategies.
Exhibition Info:
Fastener Expo Shanghai 2026
Date: June 24–26, 2026
Venue: National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai)
Scale: 70,000㎡, 1,400+ exhibitors, 25,000+ professional visitors
Official Website: www.fastenerexpo.cn/en
Media Contact: Goblic Hu
Email: goblic.hu@ebseek.com
Phone: +86 138 1631 0340

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