Connect two differently sized male-threaded parts, such as threaded rods, and tighten with a standard wrench. The threads on these adapters have various sizes and spacing, so you can increase or decrease thread size or adapt from coarse to fine threading. You can also use them to change the gender of a connection from male to female. Small adapters can work as threaded standoffs, which position and separate circuit boards and other components in assemblies.Zinc-plated steel adapters are a good option in dry environments. The zinc plating prevents the steel from corroding until the plating wears away.