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Automotive FastenersFasteners used in automobile manufacturing include any tools that are used to secure 2 or more parts in an automobile. They play an important role in car equipment safety, and must be strong enough to fare well in accidents. They are made from either plastic or steel. Plastic fasteners are not as strong, but have high resistance to shock and vibrations. Steel fasteners are usually made of high grade stainless steel wire or rod. Automotive fasteners are used in door panels, small engine parts, airbag housings, among many other parts of a vehicle. They may be nuts, bolts, screws, retainers, spring clips or washers. Each variety of fastener is engineered to fill a specific automotive requirement, and choosing the correct fastener in the manufacturing process is vitally important. The main types of automotive fasteners are nuts, bolts and washers. Nuts are used to secure bolts and screws to a surface, and have interior (female) threading. Bolts are threaded with pins or rods. They always have heads and are used in wheel construction. Automobile washers are small, flat dishes that have holes in their center. They are used to hold a load of automotive bolts and prevent leakage, distribute pressure and are used in the car’s radiator. Plastic fasteners, often made with vinyl, are manufactured through injection molding, while metal fasteners are usually cold worked and heat treated to ensure strength and durability.
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