What Are the Different Types of Screw Heads?

As one of the most widely used hardware types, screws can be found on a wealth of machinery in nearly every industry. In general, they consist of a head and a sharp threaded rod for the purpose of being driven into a surface. To suit an array of tasks, they have been designed with a variety of head types, each with their own benefits. In general, screws can be divided into two groups: countersunk and non-countersunk. Countersunk screws are designed to fit completely flush with a surface whereas non-countersunk screws protrude above it.

Countersunk Screw Head Styles

Screws that have an angular shape beneath their head will require countersinking to avoid damaging their mounting surface. Countersunk heads fit perfectly on a surface so that there are little to no protruding parts. Some common designs include:

  • Flat: With a very thin, flat head, these screws sit entirely flush with their mounting surface and can be hidden completely using a screw cover.
  • Oval: This type of head style has a similar angle to that of the flat screw but with a decorative dome-shaped head.
  • Bugle: Bugle heads are featured mainly on drywall, wood decking, and plasterboard screws. Their wide, tapered shape allows for greater surface area which reduces overall stress on the materials in which they are driven.

Non-countersunk Screw Head Styles

  • Screws that are flat underneath their head do not require countersinking. Instead, they are able to fasten tightly while having protruding parts. Below is a list of various non-countersunk screw head types:
  • Binding: This style of screw has a slightly domed head which has male and female sides that attach to each other. They are commonly used for bookbinding and electrical operations.
  • Button: Button style heads are rounded with an internal hex. They are typically used in socket-driven screws.
  • Domed: Dome head screws have a rounded protruding head which is flat underneath. They are often applied to enhance various projects with an appealing aesthetic.
  • Pan: Pan heads are the most common type of rounded screws. They have a slightly domed design and are trapezoidal when viewed from the side.
  • Round: Although this design is becoming less common, round screw heads offer an alternative for creating a rounded appearance. They are very similar to pan heads but are semicircular when viewed from the side.
  • Fillister: Fillister heads have a slightly rounded top and tall cylindrical side, giving them a deeper drive slot than round or pan head screws.
  • Truss: Often used for fastening sheet metal, truss heads have a wider and slightly rounded surface. As a result of this shape, they create a low profile and disperse weight more evenly on a surface.
  • Flange: Flange screws can be circular or hex shaped and have a circular flange directly underneath their heads.
  • Hex: Hex heads are designed with six sides to add greater torque. They typically require a wrench or socket for installation.
  • Socket Cap: These heads are unique to socket drive recesses and are mounted flat against a surface. They have a recess which allows for a smooth appearance without needing countersinking.
  • Square: Square heads are used on screws to add torque with a greater surface area. They typically require a wrench for installation and removal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a large variety of head styles have been crafted to suit the range of tasks for which screws can be used. If you are on the search for dependable hardware or other parts for your next project, we invite you to browse our ever-expanding inventory of aircraft parts on ASAP Purchasing. With an easy-to-navigate online catalog and search tools, we make it easy for our customers to find the parts that they require from our website. To get started today, simply send us an RFQ with details about your parts requirements, and a dedicated member of our team will formulate a solution catered to your specific needs in 15 minutes or less!  



January 12, 2023

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