Machine Screws
About Machine Screws
Machine screws can be considered both a screw and bolt, threaded into any internally threaded item that has the same machined thread pattern or can be paired with nuts and washers.
When it comes to working with screws, it's imperative that you have the right one for the project you're working on. Failure to use the correct screw could result in damage to surrounding areas or, worse, the breakdown of materials.
If you're looking for machine screws, we've made it easy to identify the various types available to ensure you've got the tools you need. Keep reading on to find out more.
What Are Machine Screws
With so many different screws, bolts, and fasteners, it can be difficult to know which type you need.
Machine screws is an umbrella term used for standard fasteners that come in various sizes and materials, such as:
- Steel machine screws
- Plated machine screws
- Phillips head machine screws
- Pan head machine screws
- Brass machine screws
Available to purchase with different heads, machine screws can be fine-threaded or coarse-threaded, depending on the required use. Machine screws are generally considered slightly smaller in length than other types of fasteners out there and usually contain a flat tip instead of a sharp point.
Manufactured at a high standard, machine screws are considered incredibly safe, strong, and secure. They can guarantee a high level of precision while delivering exceptional results.
What Are Machine Screws Used For?
Machine screws are commonly used in large-scale projects requiring securing heavy loads. This includes construction projects, machinery projects, automobiles, engines, electronic devices, and more.
Machine screws are generally purchased when a higher torque level is required, ensuring a tight, secure fit that won't budge. While they may be small, machine screws are incredibly strong and frequently found in assembly lines.
Machine Screw Types
The great thing about machine screws is that they're available in different materials. These include:
- Stainless steel machine screws
- Zinc-plated machine screws
- Brass machine screws
Depending on your required project, there's a machine screw that should suit your needs.
Machine Screws vs Bolts
Machine screws are used similarly to bolts except that they are driven with a screw driver instead of a wrench or socket.
Offered with many different head and drive style options, machine screws can easily match the desired aesthetic of your project. Using flat washers underneath the head greatly increases the surface contact area and will help prevent damage to soft or brittle materials.
Machine Screw Head Style Guide
Machine screws are available with many different head styles, some serving a functional purpose and others being more decorative. Understanding the differences will help you decide which style best suits your project.
Pan Head Machine Screws
Pan heads have a domed top with a flat load bearing surface on the underside that will hold materials being fastened firmly together; these machine screws can be paired with an internal tooth lock washer to form a bond that will withstand vibrations and high traffic when required.
Truss Head Machine Screws
Truss heads have very wide and low profile that gives a clean appearance as well as offering a much larger than most surface area that is required for applications where there is a risk of a screw head pulling through a pilot hole.
Round Head Machine Screws
Round heads feature a round top very similar to half of a sphere with a flat load bearing surface on the underside that will hold materials being fastened firmly together.
Flat Head Machine Screws
Flat heads have a flat top that tapers down to a cone shape at a specified angle and will sit flush into a countersunk hole giving a finished appearance.
Oval Head Machine Screws
Oval heads are a countersunk style with a cone shaped bearing surface and a rounded top that is preferred over flat heads in a conical application or one that a more decorative finish is desired.