Self Tapping Screw

A self-tapping screw is a type of fastener that can be easily driven into a material, such as metal or plastic. Using self-screws does not require a pre-drilled hole, which makes them convenient for various applications, including construction, DIY projects, and more. Self-tapping screws come in different sizes and types to suit specific needs, and they are commonly used in industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.

Differences between self-tapping screws and normal screws

Self-tapping screws and normal screws or machine screws, in general, serve the same purpose, to fasten together materials. However, they differ in design and the way they are used. One of the key distinctions is that self-tappers are designed to create their threads as they're installed as their sharp point and deeper threads. This feature makes them a suitable choice for various projects involving softer, thinner, or more brittle materials. Yet, normal screws do not have a sharp point as they are not intended to penetrate material but to be screwed into a pre-made hole or nut.

In softer materials like plastic or thin sheet metal, creating a pre-threaded hole can be difficult and may cause the material to crack or become damaged. Therefore, using self-tapping screws for plastic or self-tapping metal screws in these conditions is much better than using a regular screw. Self-tapping screws are designed to create their own threads, which eliminates the need for a pre-threaded hole. They have a sharp point and sometimes even a cutting surface, which allows them to pierce the material and form a thread effectively without splitting or cracking it. In essence, the use of self-tapping versus normal screws depends largely on the specifics of the task at hand, highlighting the importance of understanding their unique characteristics.

Varieties of self-tapping screws

Normally, there are two types of self-tapping screws, thread-forming and thread-cutting. Thread-forming screws are often used with plastic, as they create a very secure fit by deforming the material into which they're inserted. Thread-cutting screws are used for metal and other hard materials, such as self-drilling screws for steel, and they create threads by removing material from the hole.

Different designs fit different specific needs. One of the popular choices would be self-tapping sheet metal screws are a type of self-tapping screw specifically designed for use with sheet metal. Like other self-tapping screws, they can create their threads while being driven into a material. However, these screws are specifically designed with sheet metal and may have features like unique thread patterns that make them more effective for this type of material. Also, one specific type of self-tapping sheet metal screw is self-drilling screws. Also known as Tek screws, they have a small drill-like point at the end which is designed to drill a small pilot hole into the sheet metal, and the installation process is much easier.

Another popular variety would be self-tapping bolts. Much like self-tapping screws, they can create their own threads as they are driven into a hole. However, bolts differ from screws in several ways. A bolt is typically used in a hole that goes through the materials to be fastened; this hole has a matching nut, which the bolt threads into.