A U-bolts as the name suggests is a bolt whose shape resembles the English alphabet ‘U’. It has a curved base and two threaded arms protruding from two sides making the ‘U’ formation. These bolts are used in a number of industrial and commercial applications. Industrial building applications, commercial buildings, automobile industries, off-shore operations, marine and fishing, coastal activities are just to name a few of them.

A lot of variety abounds in size, shape, grade and the material used for producing these bolts to suit the requirements of each and every application. The most commonly used metal for manufacturing the U- bolts is steel though they can also be got in hot dipped galvanized finish, plain finish, low carbon steel, Teflon coated, zinc plated or hot dipped galvanized poly-coated. These are basically used wherever two or more parts of any material needs to be clamped together. In automobiles, the U-bolts ensure that truck bodies are held firmly to the frames; in refineries or off-shore platforms they help in fastening the pipes securely to the structural beam support. In commercial or industrial buildings, these bolts can be used to attach rods, cables or other materials to walls. Here, the curved base holds the cables and other items flat against the wall and the threaded ends protrude into the hidden area. In the same setting, the U- bolts act as excellent concrete fasteners. The threaded ends are pushed facing upwards into the concrete while it is wet and the curved base enables varied items to be bolted into the concrete safely and securely.

However, it is essential to use the right kind of U- bolt for your application so as to avoid costly workarounds and repairs later on. If the U- bolt has to be used in a moisture laden or humid environment then it has to be made from an anti-rust or anti-corrosive metal or it has to be coated with some form of anti-corrosive material. Heat shrink polyolefin tube can be one option for a U bolt coating as it offers the required mechanical and corrosion protection. This form of coating is one of the best options since it provides top resistance to abrasion and impact and fits snugly over the U- bolt without causing formation of wrinkles. The polyolefin material can be fully relied upon as it is not affected by vibration, UV rays, sandblasting or any other impacts that may occur in a marine or industrial setting. Just as heat shrink tubes along with pole cap, stress control cap, dock pile cap etc are important products to ensure an efficient insulation in any electrical power systems; similarly, the significance of the heat shrink polyolefin tube as a U bolt coating cannot be undermined. If your U bolt has to function effectively in any application involving humid or corrosion leading environments then this is the form of coating needed. Likewise, another factor that has to be considered if your U bolt has to be a right fit is the weight of the object that has to be secured by it. A bolt that is suited for heavy loads has to be bought in this case. Getting the right fit is the key!