Screws are pieces of metal that have a spiral shape on their body and are used to fix two or more pieces together, either permanently or temporarily. They are widely used in carpentry, since they are fundamental elements in any type of structure and offer security in the union of pieces.
It is possible to classify different types of screws taking into account the head, function, utility, material and finish. In total there are more than 36 types of screws. In this article we tell you what the types of screws are, what they are for and what their parts are.
What are the parts of a screw?
Screws have different parts with certain characteristics.
- Head: upper part where the screwdriver is placed to adjust or loosen.
- Shank: the longest part of the screw.
- Cane: smooth part of the stem.
- Thread: non-smooth part of the stem.
- Pitch: distance between the threads of the thread.
- Tip: the bottom of a screw.
What are the different types of screws that exist?
Screws are fixing elements to join parts and therefore, are essential in structures. They can be differentiated according to the type of head, function, utility, finish and material. In this section we tell you what the types of screws that exist are.
Types of screw heads
The head of a screw is the top and determines the type of tool to use to hold the custom screw manufacturer. There are different types of screw heads.
- Hex head screw: it is the most common, it is used to fix parts.
- Hexagon head screw with flange: type of screw with adjustment and does not require a washer.
- Hexagonal head screw with pivot: allows the immobilization of the union of two pieces.
- Hexagon head screw with point: it has a rod that is screwed into its ends, it is known as a grub screw and is used to assemble.
- Slotted Flat Head Screw – This is not a great fit and the tool to use is a flat head screwdriver.
- Round head screw: they have a flat base.
- Allen or cylindrical head screw with internal hexagon: it has a hole to be used with an Allen key and they are very tight.
- Square head screw: it is not a great tightening.
- Wing Head Screw – This type of screw is used for joints that do not require much tightening, it can be easily removed and replaced.
- Tallow-drop head screw: It has a conical shape.
Types of screws according to the material
There is a classification of screws according to the material. There are two:
- Steel screws: bichromated or zinc plated are very resistant and are used for interiors. There are also stainless steel screws, ideal for exteriors and humid environments, as they do not rust.
- Aluminum Screws – These are very common, are lighter than steel screws, and are very good for working on wood or plastic surfaces.
- Plastic screws: they are used for pieces that are outside, since they withstand different environmental conditions.
- Brass screws: this type of screw is used for wooden surfaces, they are very resistant and aesthetic.