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Fasteners guide

Metric and Imperial Threads Explained

A practical guide to diameter, pitch, TPI, thread form and identification.

The practical idea

Metric threads are commonly described by nominal diameter and pitch, such as M10 × 1.5. Unified inch threads are normally described by nominal inch size and threads per inch, such as 3/8-16 UNC.

What changes the real result?

Similar-looking threads are not necessarily compatible. Confirm diameter, pitch or TPI and thread form before assembly.

A reliable workflow

  1. Confirm the units, material and operating conditions.
  2. Use a suitable formula or reference as a starting point.
  3. Compare the estimate with manufacturer data and applicable standards.
  4. Measure the real result and record any corrections for repeat work.