Bolts and nuts are essential mechanical fasteners used to join two or more components together. Bolts have a threaded shaft and a head, while nuts are threaded internally to match the bolt's threads. They are commonly used in construction, manufacturing, and various other industries. Here's a more detailed explanation: Bolts: Function: Bolts are threaded fasteners with external threads. They are designed to be inserted through a component and secured with a nut on the other side. Components: Bolts typically consist of a threaded shaft and a head, which can be various shapes like hexagonal, square, or other specialized designs. Purpose: Bolts are used to create a strong and secure connection by tightening the nut against the bolted components. Nuts: Function: Nuts are internally threaded fasteners designed to mate with bolts. Purpose: Nuts are tightened onto the bolt to create clamping force, holding the components together and preventing axial movement. Types: Nuts come in various shapes and sizes, but the most common is the hexagonal nut. Key Differences: Threads: Bolts have external threads, while nuts have internal threads. Joining Mechanism: Bolts are inserted and secured with a nut, while screws form their own threads or use pre-existing threads. Tightening: Bolts are typically tightened by turning the nut, while screws are tightened by turning the head. Other Important Considerations: Material: Bolts and nuts are available in various materials like steel, stainless steel, and brass, each suited for different applications and environments. Sizes and Grades: Bolts and nuts come in various sizes and grades, with different strengths and thread pitches. Huyett offers information on nut and bolt sizes. Specialty Bolts: There are various specialized types of bolts for specific applications, such as carriage bolts, flange bolts, and eye bolts. Nuts and Bolts in the "Nuts and Bolts" Idiom: The phrase "nuts and bolts" is also an idiom that refers to the practical, essential details of something, as opposed to abstract ideas or theories.