A RSS news feed containing the latest Good Hand UK articles https://goodhanduk.co.uk/ en-gb https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/imperial-threads-explained-a-guide-to-imperial-thread-sizes When choosing engineering components, fasteners, knobs, handles, clamps or other threaded parts, selecting the correct thread size is essential. But what does 8-32, 10-32 or 1/4-20 actually mean? In this guide, we explain imperial threads in simple terms, including how imperial thread sizes are written, what the numbers mean and how they compare with metric threads. What is an imperial thread? An imperial thread is a screw thread specified using the inch-based measurement system, rather than millimetres. Unlike metric threads, where the thread diameter is normally given in millimetres, imperial threads use a combination of: A number or fractional inch diameter The number of threads per inch (TPI) For example: 8-32 This means: 8 = the screw's nominal diameter 32 = 32 threads per inch The first number can be slightly confusing because sizes such as #8 and #10 are numbered screw sizes, rather than meaning 8 inches or 10 inches. What does 8-32 mean? An 8-32 thread is a common imperial Unified Thread Standard (UTS) thread. The 8 refers to the nominal screw size, while 32 means there are 32 threads along one inch of thread. An 8-32 screw therefore has: #8 diameter + 32 threads per inch The pitch can also be calculated from the TPI: 1 ÷ 32 = 0. So each thread is approximately 0. An 8-32 thread is commonly found on smaller engineering components, machinery and equipment. What does 10-32 mean? A 10-32 thread follows exactly the same principle. 10 = #10 screw size 32 = 32 threads per inch Therefore, 10-32 has a larger diameter than 8-32, while both have the same 32 TPI. This is an important distinction: 8-32 and 10-32 are not the same thread. Although they both have 32 threads per inch, the diameter is different. What does the number actually mean? One of the most common questions about imperial threads is: "If 8-32 means 8, does that mean the thread is 8 inches? No. The 8 is a numbered screw diameter, part of the standardised imperial screw sizing system. For smaller screws, imperial sizes are commonly identified using numbers such as: Screw Size       Approx. #0 0. #2 0. #4 0. #6 0. #8 0. #10 0. #12 0. The larger the number, the larger the nominal diameter. Once imperial threads reach larger sizes, they are commonly specified using fractional inches, for example: 1/4" 5/16" 3/8" 1/2" 3/4" These are then combined with the threads per inch. For example: 1/4-20 means a nominal diameter of 1/4 inch and 20 threads per inch. What does TPI mean? TPI stands for Threads Per Inch. It tells you how many complete threads are contained within one inch of the threaded section. For example: 1/4-20 = 20 threads per inch 1/4-28 = 28 threads per inch Both are 1/4" diameter threads, but they have different thread pitches. This means they are not interchangeable. A 1/4-20 component will not correctly fit a 1/4-28 thread. Coarse and fine imperial threads Imperial threads are commonly available in different thread pitches. Two of the most common standards are: UNC – Unified National Coarse UNC threads have a relatively coarse thread pitch. For example: 1/4-20 UNC has 20 threads per inch. Coarse threads are commonly used for general-purpose fastening and engineering applications. UNF – Unified National Fine UNF threads have more threads per inch and therefore a finer pitch. For example: 1/4-28 UNF has 28 threads per inch. Fine threads can be useful where a finer adjustment or greater thread engagement is required. Imperial vs metric threads One of the biggest differences between imperial and metric threads is how the size is specified. A metric thread such as: M6 x 1. means: M = metric 6 = 6 mm nominal diameter 1. An imperial thread such as: 1/4-20 means: 1/4" = nominal diameter 20 = 20 threads per inch The two systems are different and should not be treated as interchangeable. For example, an M6 thread may appear visually similar to an imperial thread, but this does not mean the components will fit correctly. Can imperial and metric threads be used together? Generally, no. Although some imperial and metric thread sizes can appear very similar, the diameter and thread pitch are different. Trying to force an imperial component into a metric thread, or vice versa, can damage: The threaded component The mating thread Nuts and bolts Machinery Precision equipment It is therefore important to identify the thread standard before ordering replacement components. Common imperial thread sizes Some common imperial threads you may encounter include: #6-32 #8-32 #10-24 #10-32 1/4-20 1/4-28 5/16-18 5/16-24 3/8-16 3/8-24 1/2-13 1/2-20 The first part identifies the diameter and the second part identifies the number of threads per inch. Why choosing the correct thread matters For engineering components such as clamp levers, knobs, handles, indexing plungers and other operating parts, the thread is a critical part of the specification. Two components can look almost identical but have completely different threads. For example, a component available with: M6 may also be available with: 1/4-20 While these sizes are relatively close in diameter, they are different thread standards and should not be substituted for one another without confirming compatibility. Always check the manufacturer's technical specification before selecting a replacement. How to identify an imperial thread If you have an existing component but don't know its thread size, there are several ways to identify it. 1. The easiest and most reliable method is to check the manufacturer's part number, technical drawing or product specification. 2. Use a vernier caliper to measure the outside diameter of the threaded section. Remember that a #8 or #10 screw will not measure exactly 8 mm or 10 mm — these are numbered imperial sizes. 3. For imperial threads, thread pitch is normally specified as threads per inch (TPI). A thread pitch gauge is one of the easiest ways to identify this. 4. If you are unsure whether a component is metric or imperial, don't assume based solely on its appearance. Check the original equipment specification or measure the thread carefully. Imperial thread terminology at a glance Term Meaning Imperial thread    Thread measured using the inch system TPI Threads Per Inch UNC Unified National Coarse UNF Unified National Fine #8 Numbered imperial screw size 1/4" Nominal diameter of 1/4 inch 8-32 #8 diameter with 32 TPI 10-32 #10 diameter with 32 TPI 1/4-20 1/4" diameter with 20 TPI 1/4-28 1/4" diameter with 28 TPI Imperial threads from Good Hand UK At Good Hand UK, we supply a wide range of industrial and engineering components, including products available with both metric and imperial thread options. Whether you require a clamp lever, knob, handle, indexing plunger or another operating component, selecting the correct thread is essential for ensuring compatibility with your existing equipment. If you are unsure which thread you require, check the product specification or contact our team for assistance. The correct thread means the correct fit — and the correct fit means clamping with confidence. https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/imperial-threads-explained-a-guide-to-imperial-thread-sizes Thu, 10 Sep 2026 13:48:00 +0000 Good Hand UK https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/calculator Our Exair cost saving calculator is a simple, powerful tool designed to help you instantly work out how much you can save. Built for both businesses and individuals, it helps you: Understand true cost differences between Exair products. Calculate monthly and annual savings Estimate long-term financial impact Make informed decisions with confidence With a clean interface and fast calculations, this tool takes the guesswork out of budgeting and cost comparisons.   https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/calculator Thu, 27 Nov 2025 09:26:00 +0000 Good Hand UK https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/choosing-the-right-line-vac Do you have operators climbing steps to dump bags of material into hoppers? Do you need a faster way to remove scrap from a process? Do you have budgetary constraints in trying to move material from point A to point B? If you answered yes to any of these, EXAIR may have a simple solution. EXAIR manufactures these air-operated conveyors and trademarks them as Line Vacs. EXAIR Line Vacs use a small amount of compressed air to generate a powerful vacuum by a Venturi effect. The Standard Line Vac is the most versatile product in this family. These Line Vacs work great in applications for loading plastic pellets in hoppers, discarding scrap pieces, trim removal, and transferring material. The Heavy Duty Line Vacs are made from a hardened alloy steel for abrasion resistance. Introducing the NEW  ULTRA DUTY LINE VAC. On the other end of the spectrum, we have the Light Duty Line Vac. The Sanitary Flange Line Vacs can fit within sanitary piping systems to convert pipes into a useful conveyor for bulk material and waste removal. With all of the EXAIR Line Vacs above, they can be sold as kits. If you need to convey solid materials in a quick and easy way, an EXAIR Line Vac could be a solution for you.   https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/choosing-the-right-line-vac Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:36:00 +0000 Good Hand UK https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/choosing-the-right-cabinet-cooler Exairs compressed air operated, Cabinet Cooler Systems are a low cost, reliable way to cool and purge electronic control panels. Cabinet Cooler systems eliminate heat related problems by providing a temperature controlled environment inside of electrical enclosures. How do they work? Compressed air enters the vortex tube powered Cabinet Cooler and is converted into two streams, one hot and one cold. Choosing the right unit for you. Firstly, you will need to calculate the head load in the unit this can be done using the Cabinet Cooler Sizing Calculator this will tell you the exact unit to use but there are some other considerations to take into account first. NEMA (IP) Ratings. All standard cabinet coolers come in three distint ratings dependant on the environment in which they are installed. NEMA 12 (IP54) means it’s dust tight & oil tight, indoor duty. NEMA 4 (IP66) means it’s dust tight, oil tight, splash resistant, indoor/outdoor duty. NEMA 4X (IP66) systems meet all requirements for a NEMA 4 rating, and are made of Type 303 Stainless Steel for corrosion resistance. What are your Running Requirements? We supply three purchasing options for Cabinet Coolers as follows. Cooler Only - Usually for OEM applications this is just the cabinet cooler without any of the operational accessories. Continous Operation - This includes the cabinet cooler but also the distribution pipe to aid in circulating the air inside of the cabinet. Thermostat Control - This includes all of the above but the inclusion of a compressed air filter, solenoid valve (available in 120VAC, 240VAC & 24VDC) and thermostat. What if my application requires a little extra safety? Dont worry we have you covered! High Temperature Cabinet Coolers are ideal when ambient temperatures reach 52c to 93c. Non-Hazardous Purge Cabinet Coolers are ideal for dirty/dusty areas where contaminants might normally pass through small holes or conduits. ATEX Cabinet Cooler Systems are ideal for use with classified enclosure purge and pressurised systems. Hazardous Location Cabinet Cooler Systems are a UL & CE Classified cooler for use in purged electrical enclosures found withing classified areas which include - Class I Div 1, Groups A, B, C & D. Class II Div 1, Groups E, F & G. Class III  If you have any further questions or would like to discuss the products in more detail please do not hesitate to contact the sales team on 01908 221151 / sales@goodhanduk.   https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/choosing-the-right-cabinet-cooler Wed, 06 Aug 2025 14:31:00 +0000 Good Hand UK https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/super-air-knife-standard-air-knife-full-flow-air-knife-what-s-the-difference- EXAIR is the industry leader when it comes to compressed air operated Air Knives. Leading the pack is the award-winning Super Air Knife. All Super Air Knives ship from stock with ¼ NPT air inlets and ¼-20 tapped holes along the bottom that can be used for mounting. Next is our Standard Air Knife. As mentioned earlier, the Standard Air Knives airflow pattern exits perpendicularly to the nozzle exit. Finally, we have the Full-Flow Air Knife. Moving the air inlets from the ends to the center, the Full-Flow Air Knife has different dimensions than the Standard Air Knife. The same materials are offered as the Standard Air Knives: aluminum and 303 SS. So there we have it, in effect all models of air knife are useful and we would always recommend the Super Air Knife to any potential new customers as this offers the best in terms of performance, air saving, and noise levels. But if space is an issue you might find a Standard or Full-Flow Air Knife fits into your application slightly better. If you have any doubts please do not hestiate to contact one of our sales team on 01908 221151, sales@goodhanduk. https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/super-air-knife-standard-air-knife-full-flow-air-knife-what-s-the-difference- Tue, 05 Aug 2025 09:09:24 +0000 Good Hand UK https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/cabinet-cooler-calculator Our new Cabinet Cooler® System Calculator simplifies the process of selecting the right model by analyzing key details such as enclosure size, required NEMA rating, and environmental conditions. https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/cabinet-cooler-calculator Mon, 07 Jul 2025 09:22:00 +0000 Good Hand UK https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/solutions-for-overheating-electrical-cabinets Stop electronic control downtime due to heat, dirt, and moisture! Cabinet Coolers maintain NEMA 4, 4X, and 12 (IP54 & IP66) integrity. All Cabinet Coolers are CE compliant!   What is an EXAIR Cabinet Cooler System? A low cost, reliable way to cool and purge electronic control panels. Versions of Cabinet Coolers available -  High temperature - for when ambient temperatures reach 93C. Non-Hazardous Purge - for when a constant postive purge is required for extremely dusty & dirty environments. Hazardous Location Systems - for use in classified systems. ATEX Systems - for use in ATEX rated areas. All models are available in aluminium, 303 + 316 Stainless Steel. All models are compatible with thermostatic controls.   https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/solutions-for-overheating-electrical-cabinets Thu, 19 Jun 2025 15:20:00 +0000 Good Hand UK https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/new-variblast-precision-safety-air-gun-with-nano-nozzle-provides-focused-blast-for-blowoff EXAIR’s new VariBlast® Precision Safety Air Gun with Nano Super Air Nozzle provides a focused blast of air capable of handling tough jobs with remarkable strength. The VariBlast Precision Safety Air Gun is available with a standard, 12" or 20" extension which can also be outfitted with an impact resistant polycarbonate Chip Shield. A variety of other Super Air Nozzles with different force and flow values are available. The VariBlast Precision Safety Air Gun is available with a standard, 12" or 20" extension which can also be outfitted with an impact resistant polycarbonate Chip Shield. A variety of other Super Air Nozzles with different force and flow values are available. https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/new-variblast-precision-safety-air-gun-with-nano-nozzle-provides-focused-blast-for-blowoff Tue, 18 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000 Good Hand UK https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/new-varistat-benchtop-ionizer-for-hands-free-static-elimination EXAIR’s Varistat Benchtop Ionizer is the latest solution for neutralizing static on charged surfaces in industrial settings. The Varistat is the first fan-driven static eliminator to be offered by EXAIR, expanding available solutions while maintaining top-of-the-line performance. The Varistat joins an extensive line of static eliminating products from EXAIR that are UL listed and CE compliant. https://goodhanduk.co.uk/blog/new-varistat-benchtop-ionizer-for-hands-free-static-elimination Tue, 18 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000 Good Hand UK