Technical fasteners
Technical Fasteners – Overview
Technical fasteners are components that enable quick, tool-free adjustment, fastening, or locking. They are used especially for:
Adjustments on machines and equipment
Maintenance and operating functions
Locking moving or removable parts
1. Thumb Screws
Features:
Hand-tightened – no tools required
Head shape: round, knurled, or wing-style
Often used in adjustable parts or for maintenance
Materials:
Steel (zinc-plated, black passivated)
Stainless steel (A2/A4)
Brass (common in light-duty applications)
Plastic / polyamide, often with a metal thread
Applications:
Housing covers
Panel fastenings
Adjustment levers and locking mechanisms
2. Thumb Nuts
Features:
Counterpart to thumb screws – tightened by hand
Shapes: wing, star-shaped, knurled, or T-shaped
Allows quick opening and tightening
Materials:
Polyamide / plastic for light fastening applications
Brass or steel for heavy-duty fastening
Plastic versions are often reinforced with a metal thread
3. Knurled Products
Examples:
Knurled thumb screws / nuts
Knurled levers and knobs (rotating or fixed)
An important part of ergonomic design – provides a good hand grip
4. Operating Handles and Adjustment Knobs
Use:
Adjustment levers, locking handles, lever handles
Often with an internal thread or through-hole
Pivoting and releasable versions available
Materials:
Polyamide (PA), Polypropylene (PP), PBT, possibly glass fiber reinforced
Shaft/threaded part: steel or stainless steel
5. Wheels and Sliding Elements
Types:
Mounting wheels / bearing wheels
Industrial wheels with locking function
Materials: polyurethane, TPE, polyamide, rubber
Frame: steel / stainless steel / plastic
Applications:
Moving equipment (serviceable machines, carts)
Machine stands, racks, instruments
Materials – Summary
Material - Properties - Applications
Steel (zinc-plated/black passivated) - Durable, economical - General machinery
Stainless steel (A2/A4) - Corrosion-resistant - Food industry, pharmaceutical industry, outdoor use
Brass - Soft, non-sparking - Light structures, electrical installations
Polyamide (PA) - Durable, lightweight, non-conductive - Control knobs, handles, light fasteners
PBT / PP / ABS - Good dimensional accuracy, moldability - Aesthetic and ergonomic parts
Applications in Machines and Mechanical Structures
Adjustment devices
Fastening of equipment guards and housings
Foldable / movable parts
Safety locks and quick fasteners
Testing and measuring equipment