Self tapping bolts are fasteners that don’t need a nut to tap their threads into the material they’re penetrating. They can be found in a wide variety of different head types and sizes, making them an excellent choice for many applications.
They can come with a blunt, flat or sharp tip and are usually used to drill into softer materials like wood without needing to do a pilot hole. However, they can also be used with harder materials.
Thread-forming
Thread-forming self tapping bolts do not require a preformed hole and are used in plastic, sheet metal and composite parts where high clamp loads resist loosening. They are also reusable and can be removed and reinstalled many times.
They have a tapered point that works to simultaneously widen the pilot hole while compressing the displaced materials and creating their own perfectly mated threads. This process, known as tap principal of roll, creates a thread that is stronger than the original material.
The screws are designed to eliminate the need for a lock washer or Loctite(r) in situations where vibrations make this impossible. These are especially useful in industrial equipment where the assembly is subject to a lot of movement.
Thread-cutting
Self tapping bolts create threads in existing holes in metal or plastic and are commonly used as fasteners for items that need periodic maintenance. They do not generate as much stress on the material as thread forming screws.
They are also less prone to loosening than thread forming screws because they don’t remove any material during installation. They create a fit with zero clearance and can stand up to large stresses without the need for lock washers or other devices that are designed to prevent loosening.
These types of self tapping screws have sharp drill points and can be installed using a power tool such as a drill. Make sure to use the correct screw size and head style for the substrate that needs fastened.
Self-tapping screws are classified into two main categories: thread forming and thread cutting. Thread forming screws displace some of the material surrounding the pilot hole during installation, allowing for mating threads to form.
Material
Self tapping bolts are made from a variety of different materials. Some types are zinc-plated, while others are formulated to resist corrosion. They also have several different head styles and lengths to suit specific fastening applications.
Unlike standard machine screws, which need a pilot hole to be driven through, self tapping screws tap their own threads without the need for a hole. They are usually used to affix thinner sheet metals and other substrates.
The most common types of self tapping screws are the thread forming and thread cutting kinds. The former displaces the material and creates threads on the inside of the object, while the latter removes the material as they are inserted.
These screws are great for securing a variety of soft substrates, including wood, plastic, and brick. However, it is important to select the right type for each job. For example, if you need to affix something to stone or concrete then you’ll need to use the right self tapping masonry screws.
Installation
Self tapping bolts are designed to create their own hole in a material as pressure is exerted on them. They are often used in places that require one-sided access, such as sheet metal applications.
These screws can be made from a wide range of materials, including stainless steel and brass. They are also available in a variety of different drive types, including Phillips and slotted.
Regardless of the drive type, it is important to choose the right size hole for the screw that you are using. If you use the wrong hole, it could lead to loosening of the screw during assembly or even breakage of the material it is fastening.
When installing self tappers, it is important to ensure that the hole is large enough for the screw to be driven through. The threads of the fastener are designed to create a tight fit, so if they are too small, the hole will not be able to accommodate the tension needed to pull the screw through.