Ball studs may be small components, but they play a big role in mechanical systems. Whether used in gas springs, control arms, hinges, or pivot mechanisms, the right ball stud makes a significant impact on motion control, load handling, and assembly integrity.
In this guide, we’ll walk through how to select the right ball stud, how to implement it in your application, and how Hi-Tech Fasteners (HTF) can help you source quality components from trusted manufacturers like Fascomp. Whether you're building a new system or improving an existing one, getting the right ball stud is essential for long-term performance.
A ball stud is a threaded fastener with a spherical head, typically used in ball joint or socket systems. It acts as a pivot point that enables movement while keeping assemblies secure and stable. You’ll often find ball studs in automotive, aerospace, medical equipment, and industrial machinery applications—anywhere a secure, movable connection is needed.
Fascomp is a recognized leader in high-quality ball stud manufacturing, offering a wide variety of configurations, materials, and sizes. At HTF, we proudly stock Fascomp ball studs and can help you choose the ideal solution for your application.
The first step in selecting a ball stud is determining whether your assembly requires a male-threaded or female-threaded stud.
Ball studs come in both inch and metric thread sizes, so it’s important to match the stud size with your hardware or mating components. Common sizes include:
Always verify that the thread size and pitch match your tapped holes or fastener receptacles to ensure secure assembly.
Ball diameters must match the socket or clip designed to receive the stud. A mismatch here can lead to poor articulation, reduced load capacity, or even joint failure. Standard diameters are usually measured in millimeters (e.g., 10mm, 13mm) and are available in a range of options through Fascomp’s product catalog.
Most Fascomp ball studs are made from zinc-plated steel, offering good corrosion resistance and cost-effective strength for general-purpose applications. However, stainless steel options are available for high-moisture or corrosive environments where added durability is essential.
If your assembly is subject to dynamic forces or heavy loads, it’s crucial to select a ball stud rated for that level of stress. Pay attention to the load ratings, shear strength, and tensile limits provided in the product specifications. HTF’s team can help you review your application needs and make the right match.
Choosing the right ball stud is only part of the equation. Proper installation and integration can make or break performance. Here are a few implementation best practices:
If you’re not sure which socket or receptacle fits your ball stud, HTF can assist with selecting compatible components from our vast inventory.
At HTF, we go beyond just supplying fasteners—we offer solutions built on quality, reliability, and expert support. Here’s what sets our Fascomp ball stud offerings apart:
When you partner with HTF, you're working with a team that understands the challenges of maintaining performance, timelines, and budgets—especially in high-stakes engineering and production environments.
Ball studs may be just one piece of your supply chain, but managing those components efficiently is key to keeping your operations running smoothly. That’s why HTF offers InventoryXpert, a self-service inventory management system designed to:
It’s a simple way to gain control over your hardware supply while keeping costs in check.
Need help selecting the best Fascomp ball stud for your application? Whether you know exactly what you need or just have a few specs to start with, our team is ready to assist.