A guide to threaded knobs
In this article we cover:
What are threaded knobs?
Threaded knobs are small devices or components that combine a knob with a threaded fastener. This design allows them to easily attach to or detach from a threaded bolt, rod, or other similar fixture. The knob protrudes from the mounting surface, allowing users to grasp, open, close, and manipulate the application. A threaded knob is commonly used where frequent manual adjustments are required, such as in machinery, tools, equipment, and furniture.
Key features of threaded knobs:
1. Knob part: The knob is the part you grasp with your hand. It’s typically shaped for easy turning and may be round, star-shaped, or have other ergonomic designs.
2. Threaded insert: The threaded part is usually a metal insert within the knob, which allows it to screw onto or into a corresponding threaded component. The threading can be either male or female:
● Male-threaded knobs: Also known as threaded stud knobs, these have a threaded stud built into their design. The stud is used to attach the knob to a surface that has been drilled, tapped through, or has a bottom tap that matches the stud's thread size. In woodworking, these knobs are often secured using threaded inserts.
● Female-threaded knobs: These knobs consist of just the knob itself. They typically feature a bottom-tapped centre, allowing them to be fastened to a stud that’s part of the mounting surface.
View our range of threaded knobs
If you want a better understanding of all knob types, check out the guide put together by our experts: A guide to knobs: types, materials and applications.
Types of threaded knobs
Now let’s look at specific examples of threaded knobs.
Threaded clamping knobs, 4 arms
4-arm clamping knobs offer a secure, multi-lobed grip ideal for adjusting and holding fixtures, equipment, and machinery in place. Available in various sizes and thread types, these knobs are designed with ergonomic grips to meet different design needs. These threaded plastic knobs provide excellent chemical resistance, making them a more cost-effective option compared to all-steel versions. Insert type: Blind, stud, stop nut, or through-hole in steel or brass and knob material made of TPE or PP.
Threaded clamping knobs, T-Handle
T-Handle knobs come in various configurations, offering reliable torque control. Available with studded, threaded insert, or through-hole mounting options. These knobs are designed for both standard and ergonomic grips, providing a simple, yet effective solution for clamping applications. Insert type: Blind, stud, stop nut, or through-hole in brass, steel, stainless steel, or molded plastic thread inserts. Knob material available in nylon or PP.
Ball knobs
Ball Knobs, available in various diameters and molded-in inserts, are used in numerous applications and industries, including lawn mowers, exercise equipment, machinery, valves, spigots, levers, and more. These knobs offer an aesthetically pleasing and ergonomic solution for controlling, clamping, and shifting operations. Insert types: Stud, blind hole, self-tapping blind hole, stop nut in brass or steel. Knob material: PP or TPE.
Applications
Threaded knobs are versatile components used in various applications, offering a convenient, tool-free way to adjust and secure various components. They’re most commonly used in:
● Machinery and equipment: For securing parts or making quick adjustments without tools.
● Furniture: Often used in adjustable furniture like chairs and tables to set positions.
● Clamping devices: In woodworking or metalworking, they can be used to secure workpieces. That said, your best option in these applications is a toggle clamp. Our experts help you understand these helpful components in our guide, Everything you need to know about toggle clamps.
● Sports equipment: Adjusting components such as bike seats or gym machines.
● Medical devices: To adjust and secure parts for patient comfort and equipment stability.
● Electronics: For securing covers, panels, or other components.
The application you’re designing might need other components. We suggest you check out our guide, Using ball & adjustable feet casters.
Materials
Threaded knobs come in different thread materials to suit various applications and environments. Threaded plastic knobs usually refer to the handle material, although as we’ve seen, threaded plastic knobs can include plastic threads. Choosing the right material ensures optimal performance and longevity in the intended application.
Brass:
● Pros:
○ Corrosion resistance: Brass resists rust and corrosion, making it suitable for moist environments.
○ Machinability: It’s easy to machine and form into threads.
● Cons:
○ Strength: Brass is softer than steel, making it less suitable for high-stress applications.
○ Cost: Generally more expensive than steel.
Steel:
● Pros:
○ Strength: Strong and durable, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications.
○ Cost: Relatively inexpensive compared to other metals.
● Cons:
○ Corrosion: Prone to rust unless treated.
○ Weight: Steel is heavy, which might be a disadvantage in applications where weight is a concern.
Stainless Steel:
● Pros:
○ Corrosion resistance: Highly resistant to rust and corrosion, even in harsh environments.
○ Strength: Combines high strength with durability.
● Cons:
○ Cost: Stainless steel is more expensive than regular steel.
○ Workability: It can be more difficult to machine than other metals due to its hardness.
Nylon:
● Pros:
○ Lightweight: Nylon is much lighter than metals, making it suitable for applications where weight is a factor.
○ Resists corrosion: Impervious to rust and corrosion.
○ Chemical resistance: Resists many chemicals, adding to its durability in various environments.
○ Cost: Usually less expensive than metal options.
● Cons:
○ Strength: Not as strong as metal – not suited for high-stress applications.
○ Temperature sensitivity: Nylon can deform under high temperatures.
○ Wear resistance: It may wear out faster than metal threads under heavy use.
Knob material
When choosing your threaded knob, you’ll also have to consider the material of the knob handle:
Polypropylene (PP):
● Pros: Lightweight, resistant to chemicals and moisture, inexpensive, and has good impact resistance.
● Cons: Less durable under high-stress conditions, can become brittle in very low temperatures, and limited colour options.
Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE):
● Pros: Offers a soft, comfortable grip, excellent flexibility, and good resistance to chemicals and weathering. For our threaded knobs, this is an overlay material moulded over the PP base.
● Cons: Lower strength compared to harder plastics, may not be as durable in high-stress environments, and more expensive than PP.
Nylon:
● Pros: Strong, durable, resistant to wear and abrasion, and has good chemical resistance.
● Cons: More expensive. These threaded plastic knobs can absorb moisture leading to dimensional changes, and may become brittle when exposed to UV light for long periods.
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If you’re not quite sure which threaded knob will work best for your application, our experts are always happy to advise you. Whatever your requirements, you can depend on fast dispatch. You can also take advantage of our free resources.
Questions?
Email us at sales@essentracomponents.com or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 800-847-0486.