Screws are one of the most essential components of the construction industry and industry. They are used to hold and connect various materials together, such as wood, plastic, cement and plasterboard. The screws ensure all kinds of constructions strength and stability. You will find screws in various sizes and types depending on their application. They are usually made of metallic materials, such as stainless steel, and have a specific angled shape that allows them to be nailed to a surface by fixing or clamping various materials. All you need is to find the right type of screw that can adapt to the type of surface you are working on. Each type of screw can be used in many applications, such as in building or furniture construction, in the automotive and airplane industries, as well as in many other construction projects of all types. In this article we will break down the different types of screws and their uses so you can choose the right screw for your construction.
Types of Screws
Screws consist of a head and a body (screw thread). We call the screw head the outer edge that joins the body. The purpose of the head is to allow force to be applied to the screw making it easier to install or remove it from the material into which it is wedged. Screws can be classified into several categories based on the shape and size of the head and body. The types of screw heads differ according to their use. Let's look at some of the most popular types of screws on the Cyprus market. In any case, it is important to choose screws suitable for the application and to follow the instructions regarding their installation and replacement.
1. Phillips Head Screw
This type of screw has a head designed to be used with a Phillips screwdriver, which is also shaped like a cross, for easy installation and removal. Phillips head screws are mainly used in applications that require stability, such as in the manufacture of furniture and electrical components.
2. Slotted Screw
This screw has a flat head with a usually linear slot for the classic screwdriver to engage. It is mainly used to hold two objects together in woodworking applications such as furniture making or carpentry. It offers particular ease of use.
3. Allen screw
The screw with a hex recess in its head gives the user the ability to tighten or loosen the screw precisely. It contacts the appropriate screwdriver very well and prevents it from slipping, and thus the screw from being damaged. The Allen screws DIN912 preferred for applications requiring less clamping force.
4. Hex Head Screw
This screw has a hex head to provide better contact with the clamping tool while allowing the user to apply more force to the screw. In some applications, the hex head can be used as a connection point for other components.
5. Square Head Screw
This screw has four flat sides, like a square. This head allows for easy adjustment and fixing of the screw using a special square tip screwdriver. It is commonly used in wood constructions.
6. Safety Screw with Paw
The safety screws with washers they have a raised bottom that acts as a safety mechanism. This mechanism allows the screw to remain in place even if subjected to vibrations or shocks. These screws are often used in applications where it is important to maintain the stability of the materials being joined. The lip can have various shapes, depending on the application. Some pads are spring-loaded for greater resistance to vibrations, while others have shapes that allow them to be secured to specially designed clips or mounts.
7. Pozi drive screw
The Pozi screw has a flat head with two internal cross slots. This slot allows the screwdriver to apply pressure to the screw while turning, thus offering greater grip and minimizing the risk of puncturing the material. It is often used in furniture making and is ideal for confined spaces and corners. Usually fits Phillips screwdrivers.
8. Torx screw (Torx Star)
The torx screw has a star-shaped head with six spokes. This shape offers a much better grip than other types of screws and reduces the risk of the screw coming off when torqued. It is often used in the manufacture of furniture, but also in the assembly and maintenance of household structures such as electrical appliances and furniture. It is considered a safety screw because it requires the use of a specialized screwdriver.
9. Pan Screw
The round head or trapezoidal screw has a round head with a flat surface on top. This head allows the fabricator to press it against the build material plate to create a firm connection. It is usually used to join wood to wood or metal to metal, but it can also be used for plastic. It is available in various sizes and lengths and can be coated with materials such as zinc, galvanized steel or stainless steel to protect against corrosion.
10. Casing screw
Self-tapping screws are used to join two pieces of wood, usually in furniture or carpentry. They have a special cylinder-shaped head, and a special texture that allows them to be embedded in the wood securely. They come in various sizes and diameters, depending on their intended use. They are usually used in conjunction with caisson drills to create special holes in the wood, into which the screws enter. They are very durable, thus offering a stable connection between the pieces of wood. Also, because no glue is required to integrate them into the wood, they can be easily disassembled in case the part needs to be changed or repaired.
11. Countersunk or Flat Screw
The countersunk or countersunk screw has a flat head, designed to fit into surfaces without protruding. It is often used in applications that require a solid connection without protruding screws that can cause injury or obstruct the passage of other objects. It is also often used in applications with wood or other soft materials, as the flat head helps prevent excessive pressure and drilling into the material.
12. Oval Head Screw
This screw has an oval-shaped head to avoid creating an uneven surface after screwing. It is often used in decorative applications where a solid connection is required without protruding screws that can cause injury or obstruction.
13. Truss Screw
The tras screw is a special screw ideal for wood constructions. It has a long and thin shaft with a large ring-shaped head, and is usually made of high-quality steel. The large screw head ensures that the materials will not move out of place and the construction will remain stable. Also, the cross screw has a screw for easy insertion into the wood and a tip that maintains the direction of the screw as it penetrates the wood.
14. One Way Screw
The One Way screw is a special screw that only rotates in one direction. This means that it can be easily and quickly inserted into wood or other materials from only one direction, while its removal is more difficult. It is commonly used in furniture assemblies, ensuring the stability of the assembled parts.
15. Hex Washer
This screw is used in assemblies. It has a unique hex head style that provides better material contact and improves pressure distribution when driving the screw. The hex head allows the use of a hex screwdriver or wrench to apply the screw, thus ensuring the stability of the assembled object.
Categories of Screws According to Their Material
Screws can also be divided into different categories based on the material they are made of, with each category having its own applications and characteristics.
Stainless steel screws
Stainless steel screws are resistant to corrosion by water, moisture and salt. They are mainly used in applications that require rust resistance.
Aluminum screws
Aluminum screws are the most common. They are used in applications with plastic or wooden surfaces that require high resistance to weight and impact forces.
Titanium screws
Titanium screws are of high quality and extremely durable. Titanium is also a light material, with excellent physical and chemical properties, but also a complex mining process, which makes titanium screws more expensive.
Brass screws
Brass screws are very resistant to corrosion and wear. Brass is an alloy of copper with other metals, such as gold and silver, and was considered in ancient times to be one of the most durable metals.
Plastic Screws
There are also those screws that are made of plastic material instead of metal. They are usually used for light applications where special strength is not required or for applications in environments of high humidity or chemical corrosion, as plastic materials are particularly resistant. However, plastic screws are not suitable for heavy duty applications.
Buy Screws in Cyprus from Geosantro
If you are looking for assembly screws in Cyprus, at Geosantro you will find a wide variety of screws of all types and of high quality. Receive your products throughout Cyprus for free with purchases over 50 euros. Sign in as a professional partner and benefit from preferential rates and additional discounts.
Browse our online store or stop by our physical store in Limassol Cyprus. We will be happy to assist you!
