Custom Fasteners · Made to Print
CSG sources custom fasteners made to your print. Send a drawing or specification and we match it to a qualified supplier in our network, manage first article and PPAP where it is required, and then set the part up on an ongoing supply programme.
Order accuracy
Global operations
Containers a year
Bufab network suppliers
Four stages, each with a clear output before the next one starts.
We check material, grade, finish, tolerances and critical characteristics, and flag anything that drives cost. Design assist is available here.
The part is matched to a source that already makes that kind of part, drawn from CSG’s 200+ global suppliers and the Bufab network of 1,600+ suppliers in 30+ countries.
Samples are inspected against the drawing. For automotive work, the Automotive & Tier 1 division provides full PPAP under IATF 16949.
Approved parts move onto the model that suits the volume: blanket releases, consignment or VMI.
A complete request saves a round of questions. These are the details that decide whether a source can make the part.
| Item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Drawing (PDF, plus a 3D model if you have one) | Defines geometry, tolerances and critical characteristics |
| Material and grade or property class | Sets strength, corrosion behaviour and which suppliers can make it |
| Finish or coating | Changes corrosion protection, friction and thread fit |
| Annual volume and release quantity | Decides the manufacturing route and the right supply model |
| Documentation required | PPAP level, certificates of conformance and material test reports |
| Target date for first parts | Sets the sampling plan |
A general guide to the choices that appear on most custom fastener drawings. The drawing and the application decide the final specification.
| Material | Why it is chosen | Typical considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon steel | Economical, heat treatable to higher strength grades | Needs a coating for corrosion protection |
| Alloy steel | Highest strength after heat treatment | Coating choice must account for hydrogen embrittlement at high hardness |
| Austenitic stainless (A2 / 304, A4 / 316) | Corrosion resistance without a coating | Lower strength than heat-treated steel; galling in stainless-on-stainless threads |
| High-performance stainless (BUMAX) | Stainless corrosion resistance with higher strength classes | Specified for demanding environments such as offshore and process plant |
| Aluminium and brass | Light weight, conductivity or appearance | Lower strength; check galvanic compatibility with mating parts |
| Finish | What it does | Typical considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Zinc plating | Basic corrosion protection with a bright or coloured finish | Thin coating; baking may be needed on high-strength parts |
| Zinc-nickel | Higher corrosion resistance than plain zinc | Common on automotive parts |
| Zinc flake | Thin, non-electrolytic corrosion coating | Avoids electrolytic hydrogen pick-up |
| Hot-dip galvanizing | Thick zinc layer for outdoor and structural use | Mating nuts are overtapped to fit the coating |
| Black oxide | Appearance and light protection with oil | Limited corrosion resistance on its own |
| Passivation | Restores the passive layer on stainless | Not a coating; no dimensional change |
The cheapest custom fastener is often a different one. CSG’s design assist engineering team works on 3D modelling, CAD/CAM programming, process development, fixture design, Design for Manufacturing and material selection, with the aim of lowering total cost of ownership rather than piece price. Where a standard part or a branded line does the job, we say so before tooling is cut.
Nicoll by Aliaxis is one of CSG’s published customer stories: a custom fastener developed from the customer’s own drawings. Read it with the other results on the case studies page.
What engineers and buyers ask before sending a drawing.
CSG sources made-to-print parts through its supplier network and manages qualification and supply. Ask the team about a specific part and we will tell you exactly how it would be produced.
A drawing, material and grade, finish, annual volume and the documentation you need. A 3D model helps but is not required.
Yes for automotive programmes. The Automotive & Tier 1 division is IATF 16949 certified with full PPAP capability.
Yes. Design assist reviews material, process and geometry, and sometimes a standard or branded part replaces the custom one.
On the model that suits the volume, from blanket releases to vendor-managed inventory. See sourcing models for how they compare.
Submit an RFQ with your drawing and specification. We will review it, match a source and come back with a quote and a supply plan.