Why choose locally stocked fasteners for your project
When a build, repair or production run depends on the right screw, nut or standoff, lead time and consistent sizing matter more than a low price. Communica keeps a practical range of fasteners and hardware in South Africa so you can get the correct parts on hand, collect from branch or receive VAT invoices for procurement. Fasteners we supply suit electronics enclosures, PCB mounting, 3D-printed parts, robotics frames and classroom labs.
What you’ll gain
- Immediate availability for common sizes and materials to avoid assembly delays
- Trade-friendly packaging: small packs for prototyping and bulk packs for production
- Compatibility guidance so you order the right thread, length and head type the first time
Common fastener types and where to use them
Selecting the right fastener starts with matching form and function. Below is a practical comparison table for the hardware most makers and technicians use in electronics and prototyping.
| Type | Typical use | Material options | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pan/Phillips machine screws | PCB mounting, enclosure assembly | Steel zinc, stainless | Choose thread size (M2-M4) to match threaded inserts or nuts |
| Hex standoffs & spacers | PCB separation, panel mounting | Brass, nylon, aluminium | Female/female, male/female variants; check internal thread depth |
| Self-tapping/self-drilling screws | Sheet metal, plastic enclosures | Steel, stainless | Use correct screw length to avoid piercing PCBs |
| Nylock & prevailing torque nuts | Vibration-prone assemblies | Steel with nylon insert | Prefer for motors and moving parts |
Quick specification checks before ordering
Measure thread diameter (M or #), pitch (for metric/imperial), head style (flat, pan, button, socket), drive type (Phillips, Torx, hex) and material. For threaded PCB standoffs confirm both external and internal thread sizes and the usable length. If unsure, bring a sample to our Pretoria or Cape Town branches for a match - see branch hours and locations here.
Practical sizing and torque guidance
A simple approach reduces assembly errors: choose the shortest screw that secures components without protruding into sensitive areas, and use a calibrated driver for repeatable torque. For small machine screws a manual torque driver set to the low end prevents stripped threads on PCB inserts.
Basic torque reference for metric machine screws
While manufacturers list torque ratings on datasheets, use this conservative rule of thumb for prototypes:
M2: 0.2-0.4 NmM2.5: 0.4-0.8 NmM3: 0.8-1.5 NmM4: 1.5-3.0 Nm
When in doubt, test torque on a sacrificial piece before final assembly. For threaded inserts in soft materials (plastic or 3D-prints), reduce torque and consider threadlocker or heat-set inserts.
Explore product categories and sizes on our shop index Collections and browse brands that makers prefer on our Shop by Brand.
