What Are Plastic Industrial Fasteners?

Plastic industrial fasteners are precision-engineered components made from high-performance polymers designed to meet the demands of harsh environments and specialized applications. Common materials include:

• Nylon
• Polypropylene
• Polycarbonate
• PEEK (Polyether ether ketone)
• PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene)

These materials offer unique benefits such as corrosion resistance, electrical insulation, and chemical compatibility, making them ideal for projects where traditional metal fasteners may fall short.

Common Plastic Fastener Types:

• Plastic Screws
• Plastic Nuts & Bolts
• Plastic Washers & Spacers
• Plastic Rivets & Snap Fasteners
• Cable Ties & Wire Management Clips
• Plastic Anchors

Whether fastening plastic to plastic, metal, wood, or composite materials, these solutions offer strength, longevity, and adaptability.

Why Choose Plastic Fasteners?

Benefits of Plastic Industrial Fasteners

1. Corrosion Resistance

Plastic fasteners are impervious to rust and corrosion, making them ideal for outdoor environments or situations where chemicals, moisture, or saltwater are present. Unlike metal fasteners, they won’t degrade over time due to oxidation or chemical exposure.
And if your project does require metal fasteners, selecting the right finish or coating can significantly improve corrosion resistance and overall performance. Learn more about protective coatings in our Fastener Finishes & Coatings Guide.

2. Lightweight Performance

In weight-sensitive industries such as aerospace and electronics, every ounce counts. Plastic fasteners are significantly lighter than their metal counterparts, improving fuel efficiency, reducing energy consumption, and enhancing overall system performance.

3. Cost-Effective Solutions

Plastic fasteners often offer lower material and production costs, especially in high-volume applications. Their ease of installation and minimal maintenance requirements lead to additional long-term savings.

4. Electrical Insulation

Plastic materials are non-conductive, making them an excellent choice for electrical applications where insulation is critical. They help prevent short circuits and are widely used in electronics, automotive wiring, and telecommunications.

5. Chemical Resistance

Many plastics withstand harsh chemicals, acids, and alkalis without degrading, making them suitable for industries like chemical processing, water treatment, and medical equipment manufacturing.

6. Non-Magnetic & Non-Sparking

Plastic fasteners are non-magnetic and non-sparking, making them perfect for sensitive electronic environments, explosive atmospheres, and medical equipment like MRI machines.

Common Applications for Plastic Industrial Fasteners

Plastic fasteners deliver reliable performance across a wide range of industries:

• Aerospace & Avionics - Reduce weight without compromising durability.
• Automotive - Fasten interior panels, electronic components, and non-load-bearing parts.
• Electronics & Electrical Engineering - Provide non-conductive fastening for circuit boards and wire management.
• Medical Equipment - Deliver corrosion-resistant and non-magnetic fasteners for sterile environments.
• Marine & Outdoor Applications - Resist corrosion in saltwater and high-humidity environments.
• Construction & Manufacturing - Offer cost-effective fastening for non-structural assemblies.

Are Plastic Fasteners Right for Your Application?

When selecting between plastic and metal fasteners, consider:

• Environmental Exposure: Moisture, UV radiation, and chemicals
• Weight Reduction Goals
• Electrical Insulation Requirements
• Load-Bearing Needs: Plastic fasteners are best for non-structural applications

If your project involves corrosive environments, electrical systems, or weight-sensitive assemblies, plastic fasteners might be the perfect fit. For high-load or structural requirements, metal fasteners may still be the better option.

Never Run Out of Plastic Fasteners Again

With BW Industrial Sales, you never have to worry about stock shortages or delays. Our Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) Plus Program ensures your inventory is optimized and your parts are always available when you need them. We manage your fastener supply so you can focus on what matters most—getting the job done.
Explore our VMI Plus solutions.

Get Started with BW Industrial Sales Today!

Ready to find the perfect plastic fastener for your project? Whether you’re sourcing nylon screws, PTFE washers, or PEEK bolts, BW Industrial Sales is your trusted partner for quality products and expert advice.
Contact us today or request a quote to learn more. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you choose the most cost-effective, reliable fastening solution for your industrial or commercial application.