Sheet metal screws are designed for use with sheet metal. The exterior threading of these screws covers their entire shank unlike a conventional screw which has only partial threading coverage of the shank – the threading starts part way up the shank of the conventional screw. At ITW Shakeproof Industrial, we offer steel and stainless steel thread forming screws designed for use with sheet metal applications.
Installation of Sheet Metal Screws
Sheet metal screws are installed into sheet metal with their completely threaded shank. Driving a conventional screw into sheet metal is not a feasible prospect in some cases. As mentioned above, external threading of a conventional screw only covers a portion of the shank. An attempt to install a conventional screw into sheet metal may end with failure as the shank stops the screw from entering.
The issue is solved with a sheet metal screw. The shank completely covered with threading is easily driven onto the sheet metal, enabling easy, fast installation. Steel and stainless steel thread forming screws will not get stalled as it is drilled into the material like a standard screw may.
Self-Tapping vs. Standard Sheet Metal Screws
Both standard and self-tapping screws may be used in sheet metal. With a standard screw, you will need to drill a pilot hole into the material prior to screw installation. However, a self-tapping screw requires no pilot hole. Self-tapping screws are designed to successfully drill into the material on their own. This is because the tip of a self-tapping screw. It is sharp, coming to a complete point at the tip, enabling the screw itself to create a pilot hole which allows the rest of the screw to be easily driven into the material until the installation is complete.
For this reason, many construction professionals prefer using self-tapping sheet metal screws as opposed to standard screws for joints in sheet metal.
For information about the steel and stainless steel thread forming screws we offer that may be used in various materials such as steel, stainless steel, and plastic, call us today at 920.261.2652 or use our contact form to send us a message.
