Engineering Hardware

Verified by Mel Sykes, Industrial Supply Chain Specialist - April 2026

Specification	Details
Types	Handles, knobs, hinges, latches, catches, levelling feet, castors, gas springs, bumpers
Materials	Zinc die-cast, stainless steel, nylon, aluminium, rubber
Standards	Various - EN 1935 (hinges), BS EN 12209 (locks)
Brands	Elesa+Ganter, Norelem, WDS, Essentra Components

## What are Engineering Hardware? Engineering hardware encompasses components and parts used to assemble or maintain machinery and equipment. This includes items like handles, knobs, hinges, latches, catches, levelling feet, castors, gas springs, and bumpers. ### Types of Engineering Hardware Handles, knobs, hinges, latches, catches, levelling feet, castors, gas springs, and bumpers are the main types of engineering hardware. Handles and knobs provide ergonomic control for moving or adjusting equipment, while hinges facilitate smooth opening and closing actions. Latches and catches secure doors or panels in place, ensuring safety and stability. Levelling feet adjust equipment height to keep it stable on uneven surfaces. Castors enable easy movement without damaging floors. Gas springs assist with heavy lids by providing a balanced lifting force. Bumpers prevent damage from collisions. ### Materials and Specifications Engineering hardware is often made from zinc die-cast, stainless steel (A2-70), nylon (PA6-GF30), aluminium (EN AW-6082 T6), and rubber. Standards such as EN 1935 for hinges and BS EN 12209 for locks ensure quality and safety. Zinc die-cast components offer durability and corrosion resistance, making them ideal for harsh environments. Stainless steel, like grade A2-70, is used for its strength and rust-resistance in applications where hygiene is critical. Nylon (PA6-GF30) provides excellent wear resistance and low friction, suitable for high-stress areas. Aluminium alloys, such as EN AW-6082 T6, offer lightweight yet strong parts that withstand impact. ### How to Choose the Right Engineering Hardware Choosing the right engineering hardware involves considering material compatibility with environmental conditions, load-bearing requirements, and ease of assembly. Look for products certified by recognised standards like ISO 9001 or DIN EN 13485. Assessing wear resistance, corrosion protection, and impact strength is important. Material choice depends on application needs: stainless steel for wet environments; nylon for low-friction use. Ensure components fit correctly and meet load-bearing demands. Certification from bodies like the British Industrial Fasteners Association (BIAFD) or the British Standards Institution (BSI) verifies quality and compliance with industry standards. ### UK Suppliers MLC lists verified suppliers registered in Companies House, ensuring reliability and accountability for all engineering hardware needs. Suppliers listed on MLC adhere to strict verification processes. These companies provide a wide range of products across various materials and brands like Elesa+Ganter and Norelem. Each supplier must meet stringent quality standards, including ISO certifications relevant to their product lines. This ensures that procurement managers can trust the hardware they purchase for use in demanding industrial applications. ### Common Applications Engineering hardware finds application in manufacturing equipment, machinery protection, medical devices, and furniture assembly. For instance, gas springs are used extensively in hospital beds, while rubber bumpers safeguard delicate electronics from damage during transport or handling. In manufacturing plants, handles and knobs enable workers to operate machinery efficiently and safely. Hinges allow doors on industrial cabinets to open smoothly without obstructing workspace. Locks secure dangerous areas, protecting personnel and equipment. Castors make moving heavy machines easier, reducing the risk of injury. Gas springs assist in opening and closing lids or panels, ensuring smooth operation even with significant weight. Overall, engineering hardware plays a critical role in maintaining functionality, safety, and efficiency across various industrial settings.