Socket Screws

Button Head Socket Cap Screws:

Button socket cap screws have a wide bearing surface and high tensile strength but are low profile, allowing for clearance in tight spaces where there isn’t sufficient space for wrenches or sockets. When installed, the button head’s streamlined design provides a modern finish. Button head cap screws are designed and recommended for moderate fastening and are not suggested for use in critical or high-strength applications.

Socket Head Cap Screws:

Socket cap screws offer industrial reliability and safety, making them the chosen fastener in critical applications due to their superior strength and advanced design. The cylindrical heads provide a significantly smaller footprint than hex heads since there is no additional wrench space required. Socket head cap screws achieve high clamping force in a joint, while using less of them, allowing for fewer holes to be drilled and tapped.

Flat Head Socket Cap Screws:

Flat head screws have a flat top that tapers down to a cone shape that will sit flush into a countersunk hole and give a finished appearance.

Socket Cap Head Screws - Key Features

Socket cap head screws have a few defining features that set them apart. Some of these are as follows:

A Recessed Hex Head

As the name suggests, socket cap head screws have a recessed hex shape, or socket. This means that, rather than turning the screw from the outside (as in the case of a hex bolt), the allen key or hex wrench fits inside the recess. This reduces the opportunity for slippage, as well as the amount of counterbore required.

Excellent Strength and Durability

Socket head screws feature excellent strength and durability. These screws offer significantly greater tensile strength than grade five or eight screws of a similar size. They also offer excellent shear strength, making them less prone to snap or break. Finally, you can expect them to deliver a greater yield strength than similarly sized options. You can expect a general strength level of between 170,000 and 180,000 PSI according to industry standards.

Frequently Asked Questions About Socket Head Screws

Do socket head screws need washers?

Generally, socket head screws don't require washers. However, some individuals prefer to use a washer with their socket screws for added security.

Are socket head screws stronger?

Yes, socket cap screws may be considered stronger than many alternatives. Generally, socket head cap screws give you a higher tensile strength, greater shear resistance, and increased yield strength. At the same time, they require less counterbore than similar screws (because of the internal wrenching).

Are there different grades of socket head cap screws?

No, unlike hex bolts and certain other types of screws, socket head cap screws have no grade designation.

Which materials are socket screws made of?

Socket screws generally consist of one of three materials: alloy steel, stainless steel 316, or stainless steel 18-8.