Your Fastener Distributor Explains the Basics of Machine Screws

Machine screws make up a large portion of the business handled by your fastener distributor. These fasteners are nearly all-purpose, and come in a wide range of styles, sizes and materials designed for a variety of uses. Find out the basics of machine screws to understand more about this well used product.
Using Machine Screws
Machine screws are used to fasten metal to metal, where a tapped hole exists. You’ll find this fastener on any number of products, including electronics, automobiles, buildings, and engines of every size and shape. Blunt-ended and available in carbon steel and stainless, machine screws come in a variety of head styles designed to suit specific purposes.

For instance, you may purchase this fastener in the following designs:

• Pan-head – the most common type of machine screw available, a pan head style is affordable and works well for DIY and some-assembly-required products.
• Fillister-head – this type of screw sits higher on the finished surface, but greater head depth allows for a deep slot, perfect for tools with higher levels of driving power.
• Flat-head – allows the fastener to sit level or flat with the finishing surface, better for appearances in some cases.
• Tamper-resistance heads – frequently used in electronics to protect the manufacturer, tamper resistant machine screws require a special bit to remove. These bits are included with the product.
• Hex-head – this type of fastener is often used in applications that require high tolerance.

Phillips is the most common drive type on the market, although many Fillister and oval-head machine screws offer a combination slotted/Phillips drive to allow for powerful driving forces required.
Availability
Because machine screws are used in so many applications, most fastener distributors have a wide selection. Both domestic and overseas manufacturers supply machine screws to North American distributors. Ask about the ANSI standards met or exceeded by the product, and look for corresponding flat washers, should the application require it.
Your fastener distributor offers a wide range of machine screws designed to suit any metal-on-metal application, many different designs and a range of budgets. Contact them today for advice and a quote on your fastener requirements.