Quick Facts
When it comes to fasteners that can handle heavy loads and rugged conditions, plow bolts stand out as a reliable choice. Known for their durability, strength and resistance to shear forces, they are characterized by their flat or dome-like, countersunk head and square neck, which prevents the bolt from turning during installation. The square neck sits in a square hole, often in a mating part, to prevent rotation while the nut is being tightened. This design is particularly advantageous for applications where one side of the joint is inaccessible, making them a popular choice for attaching blades and cutting edges to heavy machinery and equipment.
Where are plow bolts used?
Plow bolts are utilized in a wide range of applications that demand sturdy and reliable connections. Some of the most common uses include:
Agricultural Machinery: As the name suggests, plow bolts are widely used in the agricultural sector. They are commonly employed to attach plow blades, cultivator tines, and other components to agricultural machinery. These bolts can withstand the stresses associated with tilling and cultivating soil, making them essential for maintaining efficient farming operations.
Construction Equipment: In the construction industry, plow bolts are used to secure cutting edges and wear parts on heavy equipment such as bulldozers, graders, and loaders. The ability of plow bolts to resist shear forces and maintain a secure connection is crucial for the performance and longevity of these machines.
Mining Equipment: Plow bolts find application in the mining industry, where heavy-duty equipment is subjected to extreme conditions. They are used to fasten parts like bucket teeth, shovels, and conveyor components, ensuring that mining operations can run smoothly and safely.
Snow Removal Equipment: Snow plows and snow blowers rely on plow bolts to attach cutting edges and blades. The robust nature of these bolts ensures that the equipment can effectively clear snow from roads, parking lots, driveways, and sidewalks.
Logging Machinery: In the logging industry, plow bolts are used to secure components like saw blades and cutting edges on machinery such as chainsaws and log splitters. The strength and stability provided by plow bolts contribute to safe and efficient logging operations.
Railway Maintenance: Plow bolts are also employed in railway maintenance to attach components like track switches and tie plates. Their reliability is crucial for ensuring the safety and functionality of the railway system.
How Plow Bolts Work
The design of plow bolts contributes to their functionality and reliability. Here's how plow bolts work:
1. Hole Preparation: A square hole is created in the mating part, which corresponds to the square neck of the plow bolt. This prevents the bolt from rotating during installation.
2. Insertion: The plow bolt is inserted into the square hole, with the flat, countersunk head flush against the surface of the part.
3. Fastening: On the other side of the assembly, a washer and nut are threaded onto the threaded shaft of the plow bolt. As the nut is tightened, the square neck prevents the bolt from rotating, creating a secure and stable connection.
4. Tightening Torque: Plow bolts need to be tightened to a specific torque to ensure proper clamping force. Over-tightening can lead to excessive stress on the fastener, while under-tightening can result in a loose connection.
How do you measure the length of a plow bolt?
Plow bolts can come with either a flat head or dome head. While the diameter for both is measured the same way as any bolt, each bolt’s length is measured differently.
For flat head plow bolts, the length is measured from the top of the head to the very end of the threaded bolts.
For dome head plow bolts, the length is measured from the largest diameter point of the head to the very end of the threaded bolt. The dome portion of the head (what is sticking out when the bolt is applied) is not included in the length.