This page covers the essential types of anchoring products used to fasten into concrete, brick, block, and other masonry materials. From wedge anchors and sleeve anchors to drop-ins, and toggles, we’ll give you a visual overview of each type and a quick explanation of when and where they’re typically used. Anchors are crucial for load-bearing applications, and this guide helps you recognize which product is right for the job – whether it’s temporary, permanent, light-duty, or heavy-duty.

In this post, we take a look at one of the simplest yet most essential fastener components: washers. We’ll cover the most common types — like flat washers, lock washers, and fender washers — and highlight their basic shapes and functions. Whether it’s to distribute load, prevent loosening, or protect surfaces, washers play a key supporting role in assemblies. Tanner’s quick guide will help you recognize the types at a glance and understand their everyday use.

What Are FAB-LOK^® Panel Rivets?

FAB-LOK^® Panel Rivets are a type of blind panel rivet engineered to securely join metal panels or metal-to-wood substrates, particularly where only one side of the material is accessible. The fastener consists of two primary components:

• A slotted aluminum sleeve (or body)
• A carbon or stainless steel drive screw

When installed, the steel screw expands the slotted aluminum sleeve, forming a solid mechanical connection that resists pull-out and vibration.

Key Features and Benefits

• Blind Installation Capability: Perfect for joining components where only one side is accessible.
• Exceptional Shear and Tensile Strength: The mechanical expansion provides strong load-bearing performance in high-vibration environments.
• Vibration and Corrosion Resistance: The combination of aluminum and steel construction ensures long-term reliability even in harsh conditions.
• Wide Grip Range: FAB-LOK^® fasteners accommodate a variety of material thicknesses, reducing the need for multiple fastener sizes on job sites.
• Quick, Clean Installation: With the proper drive tool, these fasteners install rapidly without the need for back-up access or complex procedures.

Common Applications

FAB-LOK^® Panel Rivets are widely used in:

• Steel structural connections on buildings exposed to intense internal vibrations from machinery or significant external forces like high winds, jet engine blasts, and seismic activity
• Fastening steel structural elements in buildings subject to frequent expansion and contraction due to temperature fluctuations
• Repairing loose or separated steel panels where structural integrity needs to be restored
• Blind fastening in insulated or inaccessible areas, such as cold storage panels or enclosed cavities
• Metal roofing systems, including applications with MBCI Metal Roof and Wall Systems
• Sheet metal fastening tasks, such as securing low-voltage wiring to ductwork or attaching signage to metal building exteriors
• Solar panel installations, particularly where durable, vibration-resistant fastening to metal structures is critical

Their popularity in these areas is driven by their ability to offer tamper resistance, excellent grip in thin or layered materials, and superior long-term holding power.

Installation Made Easy

Installation requires only a standard Adjustable Torque Screwgun and the FAB-LOK® Drive Tool. As the screw is driven into the slotted rivet body, it pulls the rivet tight and expands the body against the backside of the panel, creating a secure and tamper-resistant bond. Many installers appreciate that this process avoids the need for heavy-duty rivet tools or welding.

Why Choose Fab-Lok from Tanner Bolt?

At Tanner, we stock a wide range of FAB-LOK^® Panel Rivets with various grip ranges, diameters, and head styles. With fast shipping, competitive pricing, and expert support, we ensure contractors and OEMs get the fastening solutions they need—when they need them.

In our first installment, we’re laying the foundation by exploring the major categories of fasteners – including bolts, screws, nuts, and washers – and how they’re used in different applications. We’ll also look at common materials like steel, stainless steel, and brass, and why material choice matters for performance and corrosion resistance. To wrap it up, we introduce strength classifications like grade (SAE) and class (ISO), and what those numbers really mean when selecting the right fastener for the job.

Whether you’re a returning customer with a list of SKUs ready to go, or a new visitor looking for a streamlined shopping process, the Quick Order Pad is here to simplify the journey. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to use it and explain why it could be a game-changer for your purchasing workflow.

What is the Quick Order Pad?

The Quick Order Pad is a handy feature located right at the top of every page on Tannerbolt.com, nestled between the site search bar and the sign-in button. It’s designed for speed and convenience, allowing users to add products directly to their cart without browsing through multiple product pages.

Key Benefits

• Fast Input: Copy and paste, or type in the SKUs of the products you want to buy.
• Bulk Ordering: Upload a CSV file containing multiple SKUs for instant cart population.
• Time-Saving: Ideal for customers who place repeat orders or already know what they need.
• Accessible to All: Available to both logged-in users and guests alike.

How to Use the Quick Order Pad

Step 1: Locate the Tool

At the top of any page on Tannerbolt.com, look for the Quick Order Pad between the Search bar and Sign In button.

Step 2: Add Your Products

You have two simple ways to input your order:

• Manual Entry: Type or paste in the SKUs directly.
• CSV Upload: Have a list prepared? Upload a CSV file for bulk ordering.

Step 3: Review Your Order

Once your items are added, you can view and edit your order directly within the Quick Order Pad. Adjust quantities, remove items, or double-check SKUs before proceeding.

Step 4: Checkout

Click to proceed to checkout when you’re ready. The process works whether you’re signed in or checking out as a guest.

Why It Matters

For professionals who reorder regularly, time is money. The Quick Order Pad eliminates unnecessary clicks and page loads, letting you move from product selection to checkout in record time. It’s just one of the many ways Tanner is working to make your online purchasing process faster, smoother, and more user-friendly.

Try it out on your next visit to Tannerbolt.com—and experience how simple streamlined ordering can be.

Need help? Watch our video tutorial below or reach out to a Tanner representative via phone, email or live chat for further assistance!