A carriage bolt, also known as a coach bolt, plow bolt, or cup head bolt, is a heavy-duty, threaded fastener with a round head, square neck, and shallow dome shape. These bolts are valued for their strength and durability and are commonly used in wood applications, but can also fasten metal, plastic, or two pieces of wood together.
Design: Carriage bolts feature a round head with a shallow dome and a square neck that prevents the bolt from turning once tightened.
Material: Typically made of high-strength materials, they are designed to withstand heavy-duty applications.
Applications of Carriage Bolts:
Wood: Ideal for outdoor applications like building decks and fences, especially in marine or coastal environments where saltwater corrosion is a concern. The square neck of the bolt pulls into the wood as the nut is tightened, creating a secure fit.
Metal: The square neck of the bolt prevents it from spinning while the nut is fastened, making it ideal for security applications like locks and hinges. Carriage bolts can also be used in flatpack metal constructions like industrial racking or furniture, where a square recess is cut to stop the bolt from spinning.
Other: Carriage bolts can also be used to fasten wood to metal or two separate metal components, providing versatility in various construction and assembly projects.