Which threaded fastener is typically assembled into an unthreaded hole?

The bolt is typically assembled into an unthreaded hole when it is used alongside a nut to create a secure fastening. In many applications, especially those involving structural components or heavy machinery, bolts are driven through unthreaded holes in one or more materials. The threads of the bolt engage with the corresponding nut that is placed on the opposite side, providing a strong clamping force that holds the materials together.

This method of fastening is particularly effective because it allows for the mechanical advantages of a tight fit, while also providing ease of assembly and disassembly, which can be essential for maintenance or adjustments. The use of a bolt in this configuration contrasts with other fasteners, as a screw is generally used to cut into the material and create its own threads in a pre-drilled hole, while a nut is always paired with a bolt and cannot be used alone in this context. Washers, though important for distributing load and preventing damage to the surfaces being fastened, do not serve the purpose of being assembled into an unthreaded hole on their own.