Know About Self-Tapping Screws
A self-tapping screw is a screw fastener that can tap its own hole as it penetrates the material. More narrowly, self-tapping is simply used to describe a specific type of thread-cutting screw intended to create a thread in relatively soft materials or sheet materials, excluding wood screws. Other specific types include self-drilling screws and thread-rolling screws.
There are hundreds of different types of screws available in sizes, shapes, materials, and designs. One of these types is the self-tapping screw, which lives up to its name by tapping into its own hole when driven into wood or material. They are commonly used in the manufacturing, construction, and automobile industry, as they save time by removing one step from the process. Keep reading to learn more about self-tapping screws and how they work.
How it works
Self-tapping screws work by cutting into the thread of the screw; Thus, making a flute and cutting edge, like a tap. This is in stark contrast to the traditional machine screw, which typically needs to be driven through a pilot hole. With a self-tapping screw, it automatically creates pilot holes as it is driven into the material, eliminating the need for a dedicated pilot hole. And step by step, it promotes greater efficiency and productivity.
The mechanism behind these screws varies depending on the material in which it is being driven. For softer materials, such as wood or soft plastics, the screw may have a tapered tip in the form of a gimlet point. This tip displaces the material as it is being driven, creating a pilot hole as it works through the material. However, keep in mind that the hardness and depth of the substrate should be within reasonable limits; Otherwise, the self-tapping screw will be able to penetrate all the way.
It’s important to note that some of these screws are also known as self-drilling, which means they have a drill-like head that combines fastener installation and drilling operations into one process. This makes them particularly useful in applications involving hard substrates, such as assembly lines, carpentry, and construction roofing.
Just because a self-tapping screw can be driven into a material without drilling a pilot hole first, doesn’t mean it’s the best way to use them. For example, if the material is rough, it may be helpful to pre-drill the pilot hole. Doing so ensures that the screw will be in the desired area and that it will penetrate the material smoothly and without restriction. If the pilot hole is too large, however, the threads of the self-tapping screw may have trouble attaching to the material. Therefore, when drilling a pilot hole, err on the side of caution by making it smaller than the required width.
Do you need a drill for self-tapping screws?
No, these screws can be easily inserted with a screwdriver. However, it’s better to drill a small pilot hole before you drill the screw.
What is it made of
Self-tapping screws are typically made from either carbon steel or stainless steel, but they have other properties that change their appearance and chemical composition. Stainless is the most commonly found screw material, often chosen for its corrosion resistance, and is made with varying strengths depending on the amount of nickel, chromium, and other alloys.
