Mechanical Fasteners

Definition

Mechanical fasteners are hardware devices used to join two or more objects together in a secure manner, relying on physical means rather than chemical bonding. They play a crucial role in assemblage and the use of found objects, allowing artists and creators to manipulate materials with flexibility and creativity while ensuring structural integrity in their work.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mechanical fasteners come in many forms, including screws, bolts, nuts, and rivets, each designed for specific applications and materials.
2. They provide an easy way to disassemble components if necessary, allowing for repairs or modifications to assembled works without damaging the materials.
3. The choice of mechanical fastener depends on factors like material type, required strength, and environmental conditions, influencing the overall design and durability of the piece.
4. In assemblage art, using visible mechanical fasteners can contribute to the aesthetic of the work by highlighting the connection between different found objects.
5. Mechanical fasteners can be used creatively as part of the design itself, showcasing craftsmanship and ingenuity while serving a functional purpose.

Review Questions

• How do mechanical fasteners contribute to the structural integrity of assemblage artworks?
  • Mechanical fasteners provide crucial support and stability to assemblage artworks by securely joining various materials together. They allow artists to create complex structures without compromising the overall strength of the piece. This enables a wide range of creative possibilities while ensuring that the individual components remain intact during the installation or transportation of the artwork.
• Evaluate the importance of choosing appropriate mechanical fasteners for different types of found objects in sculpture.
  • Choosing the right mechanical fasteners for different types of found objects is essential because it affects both the durability and aesthetics of a sculpture. For instance, using screws on lighter materials like wood can provide adequate support while maintaining a clean appearance. In contrast, heavier materials such as metal may require bolts or rivets to ensure stability. The selection process requires an understanding of material properties and how they interact with each other when fastened.
• Create a design plan that incorporates mechanical fasteners into an assemblage piece using at least three different types of materials.
  • In designing an assemblage piece with wood, metal, and glass elements, mechanical fasteners such as screws can be used to connect wooden components securely, providing a stable base. Bolts would be ideal for attaching metal parts, offering both strength and ease of disassembly if adjustments are needed. Additionally, epoxy adhesives can complement these fasteners when securing glass elements, ensuring they are both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound. This multi-faceted approach not only enhances the artistic vision but also allows for practical considerations during construction.

Related terms

Bolts: Bolts are threaded fasteners that typically require a nut for secure fastening, often used to connect multiple components in construction and sculpture.

Rivets: Rivets are permanent mechanical fasteners that are used to hold materials together by deforming the end of the fastener after insertion, commonly found in metalwork.

Nuts: Nuts are hexagonal or square-shaped fasteners that fit onto bolts to secure them in place, playing an essential role in various assembly applications.