When there is no threaded hole in plastic, metal, or wood material, the use of standard or metric thread forming screws for these types of substrates is ideal. With a thread forming machine screw, no tap is required for a precise and strong connection to the mating material. The thread forming screw generates the required threads as it is driven into the substrate. At ITW Shakeproof Industrial, we are your source for an array of thread forming machine screw options for various industrial applications.
Thread forming screws can be directly drilled into material (with a self-drilling point) without a pilot hole, or a pilot hole may be formed to aid in the connection of the materials, such as plastic or metal. Whether the end of the screw is blunt or sharp, the screw thread replaces the substrate material as it penetrates, eventually lodging tightly in place. These screws may be reused after installation.
Function of Thread Forming Screws
Whether manufactured from plastic or stainless steel, thread forming screws deform the material into which they penetrate, effectively mating with the material without removing it altogether. On the other hand, thread cutting screws remove and replace some of the material they penetrate. The type of screw you utilize, whether thread cutting or thread forming machine screw, will depend in part on the substrate material that will enclose the threads of the screw.
Benefits of Thread Forming Machine Screws
One major benefit of thread forming machine screws is how they self-lock. These screws develop their own threads, which means no gaps are present between the male and female threads of the screw. The self-locking feature of these screws helps prevent loosening due to vibrational loads.
Thread forming machine screws eliminate expensive tapping operations and the use of nuts, locking washers, and any other locking elements, including adhesives, resulting in significant cost savings for the joint. The use of these screws also reduces the quantity of fasteners needed and the various operations required for standard assembly.
For information about the thread forming machine screw options and other types of fasteners we offer, call us today at 920.261.2652 or reach us through our contact form.
