There are a variety of screws that can be used in various aircraft, most of which are identified according to the standards that they meet. Aerospace screws are easily recognizable because of their distinctive letters and number sequence followed by dashes. These codes help identify the length and diameter of the shank, and also indicate the kind of material used for the fastener. Screws that do not have this letter and numbering sequence are typically known to be of a lower strength. The material used is either identified by a dash if it is composed of cadmium-plated alloy steel, or with one or more letters that indicate if a different material was used. In all of the cases, the aluminum screws have a “DD” symbol and corrosion-resistant steel contains a “C”. There are many aerospace screws that can be manufactured to have a stronger durability to them. In order for these screws to be recognized quicker, SPEC will be labeled on the screw. If they need to be inspected, they can be colored with lacquer and then exposed to magnetic field.
When dealing with aerospace or industrial materials, the highest standards and regulations are mandatory. This adherence to high quality ensures their longevity, effectiveness, and efficiency wherever they are used. Many times it is difficult to locate aerospace screws, forgings and castings at a reasonable cost from any dealer. Quality should always be a considering aspect of a supplier as all companies should also provide excellent customer service. In a market where just about everyone is able to promise standards-adherence, it is customer service and after sales support that makes a supplier stand out. Look for a supplier that is able to fulfill any foreseeable needs and check from time to time if they have been able to continue to meet requirements despite numerous changes.
Being able to supply a large variety of materials at a quick pace is important when searching for any supplier. Diversity is key, as they should be able to supply you with military, army-navy, and aerospace screws to fulfill whatever contract requirements that you have, as well as other industrial pieces such as helicoil inserts for re-threading holes in softer materials, or those that need to be repaired after repeated wear and tear. Typically, softer metals such as aluminum is replaced with a helicoil insert to avoid the aluminum wear and tear from aggravated use. Helicoils are made from a much harder material and can remain locked even with softer metals. Therefore, both the fastener and the base material end up having a stronger connection.