threadable

Threadable is an adjective meaning capable of receiving or accommodating a thread. In engineering, it is commonly used to describe parts that can be threaded or threaded into mating components, such as bolts, nuts, or holes designed to accept a screw. The term covers both external (male) threads and internal (female) threads.

In design and manufacturing, threadability indicates conformance to a standard thread form and readiness to accept a mating thread. Engineers specify the thread type (for example ISO metric M, unified UNC/UNF, or British Standard Pipe BSP), major and minor diameters, pitch, tolerance, and surface finish. Proper threadability ensures reliable assembly.

Applications include tapping a hole to accept a screw, producing external threads on a fastener, or choosing a compatible nut. A component described as threadable may require additional machining (tapping or forming threads), whereas a pre-threaded part is already in a threadable state but described as threaded rather than threadable in some contexts.

Threadability depends on material properties, manufacturing method, and intended load. Issues such as misalignment, cross-threading, galling, or stripping can arise if thread engagement is incorrect. Designers mitigate these risks with appropriate tolerances, chamfers, thread relief, and finish treatments to ensure smooth assembly.

See also: thread, screw, bolt, nut, tap, die, thread pitch, standard thread forms.