In data center electrical equipment, fasteners play a direct role in mechanical stability, service access, wire routing, and, in some assemblies, grounding or bonding performance. Machine screws, bolts, washers, nuts, grounding hardware, thread-forming screws, panel hardware, cable ties, wire ducts, clamps, and wire clips must be selected around mechanical requirements, electrical contact needs, material thickness, surface condition, torque control, coatings, and installation consistency. In this Ask an Endries Expert article, we look at how controlled fastener selection, approved grounding hardware, clear documentation, and organized sourcing practices can help OEMs reduce installation variation, support build quality, maintain serviceability, and protect long-term equipment integrity.

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What fasteners are common in data center electrical systems?

Machine screws, bolts, washers, nuts, grounding hardware, thread-forming screws, and panel hardware are commonly used in data center electrical equipment. These parts may hold brackets, enclosures, covers, supports, bus-related structures, panels, and control components in place.  In addition to these, wire handling/routing components like cable ties, wire ducts, clamps, and wire clips are used.

In some assemblies, fasteners may also support grounding or bonding by maintaining contact pressure at key connection points. That makes fastener selection important for both mechanical stability and, where applicable, electrical continuity.

What drives selection in electrical equipment?

Selection is driven by mechanical requirements, electrical requirements, access, material thickness, surface condition, and installation consistency. Surface condition and finish can affect contact quality where grounding or bonding is required.

Coatings should be selected carefully. A finish that provides corrosion protection may not be appropriate at every electrical contact point unless the design accounts for it. Where grounding or bonding contact is needed, teams may need approved grounding hardware, clean metal-to-metal contact, serrated or toothed features, or other practices specified by the design.

How do fasteners affect reliability in electrical systems?

Fasteners support electrical equipment reliability by helping joints stay stable, aligned, and serviceable. Where grounding or bonding is involved, they may also help maintain contact pressure at the connection.

If fasteners are inconsistent, incorrectly installed, or poorly matched to the application, they can contribute to movement, wear, loose panels, inconsistent contact, or service delays. The risk is often not the fastener alone, but variation in the part, torque, surface condition, or installation method.

How should OEMs manage sourcing?

OEMs should control common sizes, drive types, materials, coatings, and approved grounding or bonding hardware across electrical product lines. Parts should be labeled clearly and aligned with assembly steps to reduce handling time and installation mistakes.\

Documentation is especially important where the hardware supports grounding, bonding, enclosure integrity, or service access. Keeping the approved part list aligned with drawings, work instructions, and replenishment plans helps reduce variation across builds.

What should teams keep in mind?

Data center electrical equipment depends on stable mechanical joints, secure wire routing/bundling, and, in some cases, consistent electrical contact. Clear specifications, controlled torque, appropriate finishes, and consistent sourcing help support build quality, service speed, and long-term equipment integrity.