common builds and fasteners

fasteners.md

For 3d printed stuff like cases, boxes and a-likes:

• Socket Head ISO 4762 / DIN 912 (Stainless Steel) M3 10/16/20mm.
• PROS:
  • These lengths are by far the most common/useful. Any other length can be compensated using screw bosses.
  • Heads don't wear easily so they can be re-used heavily and withstand oxidation.
  • Powertool friendly.
  • Mostly no need for nuts/drilling when using self-tapping holes (https://github.com/gregsaun/maker_cheatsheet/blob/master/3d_printing/sizes_petg.md#self-tapping-hole).
  • PCB mounting holes usually fit them
• CONS:
  • Not that commonly available
  • Not the cheapest

For light non-structural/heavy wood furniture:

• Flat Countersunk Head Phillips (Brass) M3/M5 20/30/40mm
• PROS
  • Widely available
  • Cheap
  • Sturdy/affordable furniture with 10/20mm plywood.
• CONS
  • Not for outdoors
  • Needs drilling
  • Needs proper bits or you will eventually damage the heads.

For modular/heavier structural furniture:

• Hex Socket Button Head ISO 7380 (Steel) M5 8mm + Slot Nuts
• PROS:
  • Combined with v/t-slot aluminum profiles these are an excelent and flexible way to build re-usable racks/enclosures/rigs of any kind
  • You have a local provider (https://www.ratrig.com/)
• CONS:
  • Not Cheap

For aluminum tubing/plates:

• Self-Drilling Pan Head (Zinc) M3 10mm/30mm
• PROS:
  • amazingly convientent for quick assemblies, no need to drill!
• CONS:
  • you'll mess up several times before learning to use them
  • not the cheapest
  • not that commonly available