Self-tapping Screw is a type of fastener that creates its thread when being driven into a material. The mechanism behind this is different depending on the type of material, but it usually involves the screw tip dislodging or removing material inside the substrate, leaving a threaded hole as it is being driven in. These screws are also known as self-drilling screws, self-tappers or simply tapping screws.
Self-tappers are often used when drilling a pilot hole is not possible or insufficient, such as in softer or rougher materials. The drill-like tip of the screw creates a hole and taps threads as it is driven in, ensuring that the fastener has a solid, secure hold within the material. Self-tapping screws are available in a wide variety of sizes and head types, so it is important to choose the right one for your application.
For example, self-tapping screws are ideal for working with metal sheets. Sheet metal is typically quite thick, making it hard to drive standard screws into. The drill-like tip of the screw, however, creates a solid, sturdy hole while tapping its threads at the same time, so the screws can be driven in without requiring any additional support or reinforcement.
Other applications for self-tapping screws include the creation of furniture and other interior structures. This is because the screws have a drill-like tip that can quickly make a hole in wood, or other softer materials, and then tap its threads into the surface. The threads created by the screws can then be secured with a nut or similar fastener.
When using self-tapping screws in harder, more durable materials, it is best to drill a pilot hole before driving them in. The pilot hole must be slightly smaller than the screw’s major diameter and minor diameter, or else the screw won’t have a sufficient anchor point to grip into the material.
While it is not always necessary, it can help to use a drill bit that is slightly larger than the screw’s head size. This will ensure that the screw can enter the substrate with ease and will not be able to strip the head or cause any damage as it is being driven in.
Self-tapping screws can be used in a wide range of different substrates, from metals to plastics and even some forged materials such as aluminum or iron. They are particularly useful in situations where a nut would be impractical, for example when repairing or disassembling medical devices. They can also be used in areas where a bolt or nut is unable to be installed, such as in the back of a piece of equipment where rear access would be required. Self-tapping screws are also used in many industrial applications where the workpiece or surface may be subjected to vibrations and high loads, as they can be driven with lower torque than a regular screw. They can be used with a wide variety of drive tools, from slotted to Phillips drives to deep socket drives.
Large flat head self-tapping screw
