26 Mar 2026

When a “Right” Screw Fails: The Most Common Application Errors in Fastening

Introduction

In the industrial world, it is common to attribute a fastening issue to the component being used. When a joint loosens, breaks, or fails to deliver the expected performance, the first reaction is to question the screw, nut, or bolt.

In most cases, however, the component is correct. What does not work is the way it is used.

A screw may fully comply with standards, have the appropriate strength class, and be correctly selected during the design phase, yet still fail in service. Understanding why this happens is essential to avoid recurring errors and improve joint reliability.

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26 Feb 2026

Tightening Repeatability: Why Two Identical Assemblies Are Never Truly the Same

Introduction

In many industrial contexts, it is often taken for granted that using the same screw, tightening torque, and procedure will always produce the same result. This is a reassuring assumption, as it simplifies decision-making and reduces the apparent complexity of assembly.

In practice, however, two seemingly identical joints can generate significantly different preload values, with direct consequences for reliability, safety, and long-term durability. The issue rarely lies in the individual fastener itself; more often, it concerns the repeatability of the tightening process — an essential yet still underestimated aspect in many industrial applications.

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29 Jan 2026

Designing Secure Fastening: The Importance of Torque

Proper fastening is crucial to ensuring the tightness, safety and durability of any bolted connection. Inadequate torque can lead to loosening, breakage or failure, with potentially serious consequences for people, plants and machinery.

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19 Dec 2025

Bolts for the Naval Industry: Corrosion-Resistant Materials and Treatments

History and Development In the naval industry, bolts are subjected to extreme conditions: constant humidity, salt water and aggressive atmospheres. For this reason, the choice of materials and surface treatments is crucial to ensure corrosion resistance, safety and durability of structures. Since the first iron and steel shipyards, corrosion has been one of the main challenges. With technological progress, the industry has developed special materials and advanced treatments to extend the service life of fasteners in marine environments. (more…)

27 Nov 2025

Pan head screws: When and how to use them

Pan head screws are versatile fasteners used in a variety of industries due to their discreet and aesthetic design. The rounded head shape reduces sharp edges and improves the final appearance of the assembly, without compromising mechanical strength. (more…)

30 Oct 2025

Tamper-proof fasteners: Design and functionality

Tamper-proof fasteners are designed to protect structures and parts from tampering, theft or unauthorised removal. These systems are used in urban contexts, landscaping, critical facilities and infrastructures, and thanks to intelligent design solutions, they offer additional security. (more…)

25 Sep 2025

Titanium alloys in Fasteners: Advantages and Specific Applications

Titanium alloys are one of the best performing materials for modern fasteners. Their light weight, corrosion resistance and high mechanical performance make them the ideal choice for applications where weight and strength must coexist without compromise.

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28 Aug 2025

How to properly read and understand structural fasteners according to UNI EN ISO 15048 and ISO 14399

In the context of metal carpentry and large infrastructure jobs, structural bolts are critical link elements for the safety and durability of the entire structure. Understanding markings and technical specifications properly is essential to ensure regulatory and performance compliance. This article introduces main differences between SB (non-preloaded) assemblies according to UNI EN 15048 and HV (preloaded) assemblies according to ISO 14399, providing practical guide to understand product data and making an informed choice of the correct fastener.

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31 Jul 2025

Automation in the assembly process: Bolts and robotics

Automation in the assembly process has become an essential component for companies aiming to efficiency and precision in their manufacturing processes. In particular, the integration of bolts with robotic systems has revolutionized the industry, allowing rapid, precise and reliable assembly. In this article, we will explore the crucial role of fasteners in automation and how VIPA can be the ideal partner for companies looking at the future.

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26 Jun 2025

Screws with hexalobular socket: Advantages and specific uses

Torx or Allen screws, also known as star screws and standardized by the ISO 10664 standard with the name “Hexalobular internal driving feature for bolts and screws”, are a type of fastener characterized by a star-shaped head with six lobes. This particular geometry makes Torx screws distinctive and offers several advantages over traditional Phillips screws. In this article, we will explore the benefits and specific uses of Torx screws in the electronics, automotive and mechanical industries.

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