Knurling

Knurling Services for Fasteners & Precision Components

Pattern Fasteners provides knurling services for fasteners, turned parts and precision-engineered components as part of our wider modifying and secondary machining capabilities.

Knurling creates a patterned surface on a component, typically to improve grip, provide a press-fit or interference feature, or add a functional textured finish.

We can apply knurling to both new components and suitable existing parts, depending on the material, geometry and application requirements.

What Is Knurling?

Knurling is a machining process used to create a regular pattern on the surface of a component.

The finished pattern can be used for a number of purposes, including:

• Improving hand grip

• Creating a press-fit surface

• Increasing friction between mating parts

• Assisting with component location

• Providing a decorative or functional finish

• Improving retention within moulded or assembled components

Knurling is commonly applied to cylindrical or turned components where a textured external surface is required.

Types of Knurling

Different knurl patterns can be produced depending on the function of the component.

These can include:

• Straight knurling

• Diamond knurling

• Cross knurling

• Coarse knurling

• Fine knurling

• Application-specific patterns

The appropriate pattern will depend on whether the knurl is required for grip, retention, assembly or appearance.

Knurling for Fasteners

Knurling can be incorporated into a wide range of fasteners and special components.

Typical examples include:

• Knurled screws

• Thumb screws

• Knurled nuts

• Pins

• Studs

• Collars

• Spacers

• Bushes

• Shafts

• Precision turned parts

Knurling can be applied to the head, shank or another specified section of the component depending on the design.

Knurled Components for Press-Fit Applications

Knurled surfaces can be used where a component needs to achieve a secure mechanical fit within another part.

The raised pattern increases surface engagement and can help improve retention in suitable press-fit or interference-fit applications.

Typical uses include components fitted into:

• Metal housings

• Plastic mouldings

• Cast components

• Mechanical assemblies

• Equipment panels

The required knurl diameter, pattern and fit should be specified according to the design of the complete assembly.

Knurling on Different Materials

Pattern Fasteners can machine and modify components in a wide range of engineering materials, including:

• Carbon and alloy steels

• Stainless steels

• Aluminium

• Brass

• Copper and copper alloys

• Nickel alloys

• Specialist engineering materials

The suitability of a particular knurling method will depend on the material, component dimensions and required finished profile.

Knurling to Drawing

Where knurling forms part of a bespoke component design, we can manufacture or modify parts directly from an engineering drawing, sample or specification.

Requirements can include:

• Knurl position

• Knurl width

• Finished diameter

• Pattern type

• Pitch

• Length

• Tolerances

• Surface finish

Knurling can also be combined with other machining and modification processes where required.

Secondary Machining & Component Modification

Knurling is one of a range of secondary operations available from Pattern Fasteners.

Components can also be modified with additional features such as drilling, tapping, threading, turning, grooving and other machining operations.

This allows standard or semi-finished components to be adapted where manufacturing an entirely new part may not be necessary.

UK Knurling Services

Pattern Fasteners provides machining and component modification services from our West Midlands facility.

Whether you require knurling on a special fastener, precision turned component or an existing part that needs additional grip or retention, we can review your drawing or sample and recommend a suitable manufacturing approach.

Need a Component Knurled?

Send us your drawing, sample or specification and our team can review the material, dimensions, knurl pattern and modification requirements for your component.