Self Tapping Screws

Self-tapping screws, often referred to as self-tappers, are screws commonly used when fastening into metal or plastic. Sometimes, these are also incorrectly called self-tapping bolts.

The unique benefit of self-tapping screws is the fact that all that is required to insert a self-tapper is a pilot or punched hole to introduce the screw. The self-tapping screws form their own head as the screw is driven into position. This eliminates the need for predrilling, making them a great screw choice for fast and easy insertion.

Another unique benefit of self-tapping screws is that once they have been inserted, they may be removed and re-used.

We stock two types of self-tapping screws, pozidrive countersunk and pozidrive pan head. Both of these are stocked in Type AB.

Type AB screws are the most common type of self-tapping screw, and they are characterised by the sharp point (often called a gimlet point) on the end, and they are commonly used with brittle materials and thin sheet metals.

When no part of the screw head can protrude above the level of the item being fastened, or if a flush finish is required, Pozidrive countersunk self-tapping screws are the best option.

In other situations, Pozidrive pan head self-tappers should be used. These screws have a raised head which has a flat, level underside to it. Round head fixings were actually designed for fixing against metal surfaces, but they are now commonly used to fix to a variety of rigid surfaces.