When it comes to starting a new project, the selection of screw head types plays a pivotal role in the success of both complex assemblies and straightforward DIY tasks. This article offers the ultimate exploration of the various screw head types, shedding light on their distinct head shape profiles, purposes, and benefits.
There are 30 types of screw heads, such as flat heads, flange heads, cross heads, and hex heads. From the classic flat head to more specialized ones like Torx or Quadrex heads, each type of screw head has its use.
Whether you’re looking for high torque, safety, or a nice appearance, there’s a screw head for every need. In this blog, we’ll explore 30 types of screw heads, looking at their features, advantages, and the best scenes to use them.
This will help you make intelligent choices for your fastening needs.
What Are Screws?
Screws are fasteners that hold two or more objects together by creating a solid mechanical connection. They have a cylindrical shaft with spiral threads that help screw them into or through materials. The threads provide the necessary friction and grip to keep the screw in place.
Main Parts of a Screw
Screws are essential for many applications, known for their strength, durability, and ease of use, providing a firm and long-lasting hold.
- Head. The top part of the screw is used to apply torque (twisting force) to tighten or loosen it. The shape of the head determines the tool used, like a flathead, crosshead, hex, or others.
- Shank. The smooth, unthreaded part that connects the head and the threads. The length and diameter of the shank vary based on the screw’s use and strength requirements.
- Thread. The spiral part of the screw’s shaft, which is critical for fastening. The design of the threads affects how well the screw holds. Common types include coarse threads (bigger, more robust) and fine threads (smaller, tighter), each used for different jobs.
- Point/Tip. The very bottom of the screw is designed to make it easier to enter the material. The tip can be sharp, flat, or self-tapping. Sharp and self-tapping tips are used for wood and thin metal materials, while flat tips are better for more rigid materials.
Types of Screw Heads with Pictures
Flat and Oval Heads
- Flat Heads. They are made to sit flat with the surface, giving a smooth look. They usually use a slotted or Phillips screwdriver.
- Oval Heads. Oval heads have a rounded top and a tapered bottom, adding a nice look while holding well. Usually used with Phillip’s screwdrivers.
Specialty Heads
- Bugle Heads. Bugle heads have a curved shape that helps prevent damage. They are mostly used for drywall and give a clean finish.
- Binding Heads. Binding heads are wide and low, used to hold several layers together. Often found in electrical work, like securing cable bundles, used with slotted or Phillips drives.
- Button Heads. Button heads are round and low-profile, giving a neat look. They are used where appearance matters and often work with hex drives.
- Domed Heads. Domed heads are rounded and often used for decoration or in places where high strength is not required.
- Pan Heads. Pan heads are slightly rounded on top with a flat underside. They provide a good grip and are commonly used for many purposes with Phillips drives.
- Round Heads. Round heads have a fully rounded top. They are used when a higher profile is okay, providing a strong grip and easy tightening.
- Fillister Heads. Fillister heads are tall and narrow, allowing a deep slot for more torque. They are good for strong connections, often with a slotted drive.
- Truss Heads. Truss heads are wide and flat, which helps cover a large surface area. They are great for holding thin materials like sheet metal or plastic without causing damage.
- Flange Heads. Flange heads have a built-in washer to spread out the load evenly. They are used to avoid damaging surfaces, usually with hex or Phillips drives.
Types of Common Utility Heads
- Hex Heads. Hex heads have six sides, making them easy to use with a wrench. They are good for heavy-duty work like construction or car repairs.
- Slotted Heads. Slotted heads have a single slot for a flat-head screwdriver. They are often used in household projects and are easy to adjust or remove.
- Phillips Heads. Phillips heads have a cross shape that helps avoid over-tightening. They are popular for many uses because they are easy to line up.
- Socket Cap Heads. Socket cap heads are round with a hex drive inside. They look neat and are often used in machines where strength is needed.
- Quadrex Heads. Quadrex heads mix Phillips and square drives, giving more grip and less slipping. They are used where a secure hold is needed, like in decking or cabinetry work.
- Pozidriv Heads. Pozidriv heads are like Phillips but have extra contact points to reduce slipping. They are great for furniture and electrical appliances.
- Combination Heads. Combination heads can work with different types of screwdrivers, making them flexible for quick repairs or assembly.
Specialty Star and Security Heads
- Torx Heads. Torx heads have a star shape that reduces wear and allows high torque. They are common in electronics and car parts.
- Torx Plus Heads. Torx Plus heads have a better star shape for more contact and less wear. They are ideal for high-strength jobs.
- Hex External Heads. Hex external heads have six sides for use with an external wrench. They are often used for tough jobs, like automotive repairs or building structures, where a strong grip is needed.
- Tri-Wing Heads. Tri-wing heads have three slots and are often used for security. They are good for electronic devices where tampering should be avoided.
- Spanner Heads. Spanner heads have two small holes and need a special tool. They are often used for security to prevent easy removal.
- Hex Internal Heads. Hex internal heads have a hex-shaped hole for an Allen key. They are used in machinery for a neat, flush finish.
Tamper-Resistant Heads
- Torx Tamper-Resistant. Torx tamper-resistant heads have a pin in the middle to stop normal Torx tools from fitting. They are used in secure areas.
- Square Recess Heads. Square recess heads hold well without slipping, unlike Phillips. They are commonly used in woodworking for a tight fit.
- Square Tamper-Resistant. Square tamper-resistant heads have a pin in the center to block normal tools. They are used for extra security, like in public places.
- Phillips Tamper-Resistant. Phillips tamper-resistant heads have a pin in the center to stop unauthorized access. They are used when extra security is needed.
- Hex Tamper-Resistant. Hex tamper-resistant heads have a pin that blocks standard Allen keys. They are used in safety-critical applications.
- Torx Plus Tamper-Resistant Heads. Torx Plus tamper-resistant heads have an improved star shape and a pin for extra security. They are used in sensitive electronics.