While there are various types of fasteners that you can use for your building projects and crafts, which range from nails to screws, the versatility provided by bolts makes them a popular choice. Available in a wide range of styles and sizes, bolts provide security fastening to keep your project stable.

Bolts have two basic methods of tightening and loosening. If you want the bolt to protrude, the head will be smooth and will be adjusted with a socket wrench. Socket wrenches fit over the head of the bolt, catching on the corners of the bolt to provide leverage as you turn the socket wrench.

If you don't want the bolt to protrude, you'll want to have it so the head is even with (or below) the plane of the wood. This makes using a socket wrench problematic. You either have to create enough space around the bolt to fit the socket, or, more likely, use a bolt which can be turned with a hex key.

Hex key sets include a variety of sizes to help you match up with the bolt you are needing to turn. Hex key dimensions come in both American measurements (the Imperial system) and metric, meaning working with hex keys requires knowing the size of bolts you'll be using.

Even though deciding between an American or metric hex key set may stress you out if you're likely to use both American and metric-sized bolts, the good news is that some of the sizes match up. However, if you intend on frequently needing to tighten and loosen bolts, you may need to acquire a set of each.

What about projects where a standard bolt just doesn't cut it? In scenarios where you need custom made fasteners, there are companies which allow you to provide specifications for the fastener you need. This comes in handy when the item you're producing needs a bolt which, for example, holds up to extreme heats.

For these fasteners, specialty companies basically allow you to dictate what you need. High heat? Sure. Twenty inches long? Why not. Want your fasteners in metric? Of course! Twenty inches long and in metric? Uh, okay!

It may be tempting to just make do with a bolt that isn't ideal for your needs. However, if you're producing major equipment that could cause problems if it fails, the extra cost will be worth the peace of mind.

Luckily, most projects can be constructed using bolts easily found on the market.

When you are in a position to have to fasten two pieces securely, it could mean the proper function or the safe use of a machine.  It is important to know the specifications and uses of the materials and equipment that you are using.  This will help you to make the best decisions when faced with industrial applications that vary in uses, temperatures, and vibrations.  In any application, the fasteners can be one of the most important considerations, yet oftentimes the fasteners we use become one of the last things that we think about.
Typical in truck manufacturing, hex flange nuts offer the secure hold needed to ensure safety.  A hex flange nut is designed with an attached flange that replaces a washer, making it less susceptible to slipping and turning.  This ensures an increased security of the nuts, making them ideal for the auto industry where safety is a number one concern.
Another option would be to use serrated flange nuts.  The difference between the hex flange nuts and serrated nuts are the grooves.  The serrated flange nuts grip the surface and create a more secure bond or connection, making them a better option on any surface with movement or vibration.  The nut locks in to the surface, requiring less work from you with a better result.
Specifications are critical here.  You will have to know size, thread, and material.  You must know, for example, if you need stainless flange nuts, size ranging from ¼” to 1”, and thread.  If you do not order them correctly it will not only hold up your process, it could cause serious injury if not used in the right size and style.
Very important tools to be coupled with fasteners are drills and drill bits.  In selecting a drill you need to choose a quality tool, one that is comfortable and easy to use, and will give you good reliable results every time.  Once you have selected your drill you then have to select your drill bits.  With a large selection to choose from you will have to know more about the material you will be working with.  A good starting point is Irwin drill bits and their titanium drill bit set.  They will offer you the durability and reliability that you are looking for.
Working in any shop or garage you will become familiar with the flange nuts and bolts needed to complete the job thoroughly and safely.  Having the correct tools needed to do the job is half the battle.  Becoming familiar with the materials and uses is critical to do the job correctly.