Thread Rolling Process
Thread rolling is RKIC Group's preferred threading method for brass fasteners requiring maximum strength and fatigue resistance. Unlike thread cutting which removes material, thread rolling displaces brass to form threads — producing a denser grain structure, smoother surface and threads up to 30% stronger than cut equivalents.
How It Works
Blank Preparation
Fastener blanks are produced to the correct minor diameter for rolling.
Die Setup
Hardened rolling dies are set to the exact thread pitch and form.
Thread Rolling
The blank is fed between rotating dies that displace brass to form thread crests.
Thread Verification
GO/NO-GO gauges verify thread pitch, major, minor and pitch diameters.
Key Benefits
Stronger Threads
Compressed grain structure gives 30% higher tensile strength than cut threads.
Better Surface Finish
Rolled thread surfaces achieve Ra 0.4μm — smoother than cut threads (Ra 1.6μm).
No Material Removal
Material is displaced not removed — no swarf, no waste, 100% material utilisation.
Improved Fatigue Resistance
Compressive residual stress at thread roots dramatically improves fatigue life.
Faster Production
Thread rolling is 3–5× faster than thread cutting for high-volume production.
Longer Tool Life
Rolling dies last 10–50× longer than cutting taps in brass applications.
Products Made Using This Process
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between rolled threads and cut threads?
Cut threads are formed by removing material with a tap or die. Rolled threads are formed by displacing material with hardened dies. Rolled threads are stronger, have better surface finish, and improved fatigue resistance — but require a blank at the correct pre-roll diameter.
Are all RKIC Group brass fasteners thread rolled?
All standard metric and UNC/UNF fasteners from M3 to M20 are thread rolled. Larger sizes and special thread forms (ACME, Trapezoidal, custom pitches) are thread cut. Specify 'rolled threads' on your enquiry for guaranteed rolled thread supply.
Does thread rolling work on all brass grades?
Thread rolling works best on C360 and C260 brass due to their excellent ductility. C280 Muntz metal can also be rolled. Our technical team will advise the best threading method for your specific alloy and application.
Need Brass Fasteners Made by Thread Rolling Process?
Contact our manufacturing team for specifications, samples and bulk order pricing.