Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide

Aerospace Defence

WDS releases ultra-low head shoulder bolt

Leeds based WDS Components Limited has released an ultra-low head shoulder bolt, designed to conserve space when a compact footprint is required.

Image courtesy WDS

The Leeds based supplier and manufacturer of standard parts and components has developed the new shoulder bolt for applications such as electronics manufacture. Made from high grade 316 stainless steel, the ultra-low head shoulder bolts are sufficiently durable to be used across industries, with sizes ranging from M3 to M6.

Advertisement
ODU RT

The design of the bolt includes a broad, threadless ‘shoulder’ that allows the fastener to rotate, pivot, or slide. Meanwhile, the thread, tightened against a nut or female threaded insert, holds the bolt’s position. The threadless shoulder is machined to a very close tolerance of just 0.025mm, enabling precision location as well as movement with minimal play for smooth and efficient function. When used in high speed applications, vibration is also minimised as a result of the exacting tolerance. This also reduces long-term wear for lasting performance.

Adding to WDS’ existing range of shoulder bolts, the new ultra-low head design reduces physical height in installation and creates a more compact footprint for space-constrained designs. To further reduce assembly height, the bolts can also be installed by insertion into counter-sunk holes. Ideal for electronics assembly, the bolts can also be used to retain bushes, axles, joints and shafts, as well as linear slides, in applications such as punch and die mechanisms, linkages, and motion systems.

Manufactured from 316 stainless steel, the ultra-low head shoulder bolts are highly resistant to corrosion and are able to withstand aggressive chemical washdown as well as saline exposure. This makes them ideal for use in clean in place applications, such as food & beverage production, as well as marine environments. The bolts are also manufactured to BS468-7 and ISO7379 standards.

Advertisement
ODU RT

The ultra-low head shoulder bolts are available in over thirty metric size lengths, with threads extending from M3 to M6, while the thread-free shoulder length ranges from 4mm to 20mm. The head includes allen key fitting. Full specification details are available on wdscomponents.com, including free to download CAD drawings covering all major file types, as well as 3D images that can be viewed with non-specialist software.

The new bolts, under part code WDS 887, are available in stock and can be purchased in high volume as well as single unit orders. The bolts are also within WDS’ stock guarantee offer that provides a 10% discount on any outstanding order volume that cannot be fulfilled. Same-day despatch can also be applied for UK and worldwide orders.

Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner
Loganair and OpenAirlines partner on increasing fuel efficiency

Aerospace

Loganair and OpenAirlines partner on increasing fuel efficiency

12 June 2026

Loganair has entered into a strategic partnership with OpenAirlines, a global provider of fuel efficiency technology, as part of its ongoing commitment to sustainable aviation.

Stansted posts record high May passenger numbers

Aerospace

Stansted posts record high May passenger numbers

11 June 2026

A record-breaking half-term holiday week and thousands of football fans heading to three European cup finals helped London Stansted record its busiest ever May as it welcomed 2.86m passengers during the month.

IFS launches IFS Zero

Aerospace Defence

IFS launches IFS Zero

10 June 2026

IFS has launched IFS Zero, an agentic AI Emissions Operating System designed for asset-intensive industries, such as aerospace and defence, where organisations face pressure to improve emissions reporting and supply chain transparency, with Scope 3 compliance now a contractual requirement.

Smith Detection

Aerospace Security

Smith Detection's SDX 10080 SCT receives UK DfT approval

10 June 2026

Smiths Detection announced today that its SDX 10080 SCT has received UK Department for Transport (DfT) approval for deployment across UK airports and cargo operators for hold baggage and air cargo screening.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Antevia secures JOSCAR accreditation

Aerospace Defence Security Events

Antevia secures JOSCAR accreditation

10 June 2026

Antevia Networks today announced that it has successfully achieved accreditation for JOSCAR (the Joint Supply Chain Accreditation Register), a collaborative tool used by a growing number of prime contractors and buyers in the aerospace, defence and security industry to act as a single repository for pre-qualification and compliance information.

Aston University secures £3.9m to boost aerospace and cybersecurity skills

Aerospace Security

Aston University secures £3.9m to boost aerospace and cybersecurity skills

10 June 2026

Aston University has secured almost £4 million in new funding to improve the UK’s aerospace engineering and cybersecurity skills.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
General Atomics LB