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
PTC rectangle

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
Met Office launches MAVIS

Aerospace Security Space

Met Office launches MAVIS

18 March 2026

The Met Office have officially launched the Met Office Aeronautical Visualisation Service (MAVIS) - a next-generation aviation weather platform designed to support a rapidly evolving aviation landscape, from traditional crewed aircraft to emerging spaceport operations.

AerCap orders 100 additional A320neo Family aircraft

Aerospace

AerCap orders 100 additional A320neo Family aircraft

18 March 2026

AerCap has signed a firm order with Airbus for 23 A320neo and 77 A321neo aircraft.

IATA sees  passenger demand more than doubling by 2050

Aerospace

IATA sees passenger demand more than doubling by 2050

17 March 2026

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released its Long Term Demand Projections (LTDP) for air travel, showing that global air passenger demand is expected to more than double by 2050.

Viasat

Aerospace Space

Viasat's advanced in-flight connectivity selected by National Airlines

17 March 2026

Viasat today announced that its advanced in-flight connectivity has been selected by charter operator National Airlines to enhance the passenger experience onboard a new fleet of three Airbus A330 aircraft.

Advertisement
ODU RT
ODU joins the UN Global Compact

Aerospace Defence Security Space

ODU joins the UN Global Compact

17 March 2026

Manufacturer of connector systems, ODU, has joined the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the world’s largest sustainability and corporate responsibility initiative.

Atlas Air Worldwide orders 20 A350Fs

Aerospace

Atlas Air Worldwide orders 20 A350Fs

16 March 2026

Atlas Air Worldwide has placed a landmark firm order for 20 Airbus A350F freighters, which is the largest ever placed for the A350F and makes Atlas the biggest customer of the type.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle
Advertisement
Gulfstream banner