Do you need ACME or trapezoidal threads? While both share some similarities, there are some key differences.
American Vs European Roots
For starters, ACME threads are commonly used in the United States because they were developed with regard to Imperial units, whereas trapezoidal threads are commonly used in European countries since they were developed with regard to metric units.
ACME threads were first developed in the late 1800s as a sort of replacement for square threads which were fairly weak. Thanks to a 29-degree thread angle, ACME threads are wider and thicker than square threads which makes them stronger and more durable. Today they’re widely used in heavy load applications. In terms of numbers, ACME thread diameters and thread pitches use Imperial units.
Trapezoidal threads are similar to ACME threads, but they use a 30-degree threaded angle. Remember, they were developed in Europe with regard to metric units.
Which One Will You Need?
So, which do you need– ACME or trapezoidal? Well, in some cases it doesn’t matter and they can, in fact, be interchangeable as long as components have the same thread count. That said, where will products and parts be made and where will they be sold? If your answer is the United States, then ACME is the logical choice. If it’s Europe or a country that uses the metric system, then trapezoidal threads make the most sense.
Need ACME threaded products from a company based in the United States? Dependable ACME knows thread counting inside and out and can supply you with the ACME threaded products you need for your projects and/or applications. The Dependable ACME website has links concerning thread sizes, thread dimensions and a thread gage guide. Also, you can call Dependable ACME and ask questions– the number is 800-893-3792.
Located in Westbury, NY, Dependable ACME has over 60 years of experience… And you can get same day shipment and special attention to custom orders, too. For ACME threads, choose Dependable ACME.