Different Screw Head Types - An Engineers Guide

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. By providing a detailed overview of each type, from the widely used cap head to the more specialised grub and shoulder screws, we'll equip you with the knowledge needed to make informed choices for your next concept.

If you've landed here looking to learn about screw drive types, for example, Pozi, Allen and Phillips, then our parallel article the "Different Screw Head Drive Types" goes over those in detail.

Contents:

• Why Are There Different Types of Screw Heads?

• Cap Head

• Button Head

• Pan Head

• Countersunk Head

• Raised Countersunk Head

• Hexagon Head

• Cheese Head

• Fillister Head

• Capstan Head

• Grub (Headless)

• Carriage / Square Undercut Head

• Mushroom / Truss Head

• Eye / Hook Head

• Hand Grip Head

• Flanged Head

• Shoulder Head

• Captive Shaft

• Kinmar Security Head

• Screw Head Types Chart & Print Off

As we embark on this exploration through the diverse landscape of machine screw head types and uses, we begin by addressing the fundamental question: Why are there different types of screw heads? This key understanding lays the groundwork for the deeper role that special types of screw heads can bring to your projects.

Why Are There Different Types of Screw Heads?

The huge range of screw head types in the engineering world isn't just a matter of historical evolution; it's a direct response to the multifaceted demands of modern manufacturing, assembly and design.

Different types of screw heads are engineered to meet specific requirements, each offering unique advantages in terms of application consisting of load-bearing, manufacturability, aesthetic appeal, and even security. Let's delve into the key reasons behind this diversity:

Load Bearing

The capacity of a screw to support weight or withstand force depends significantly on the type of head it has. Certain heavy-duty designs distribute torque and load more efficiently, minimising material stress and wear over time. For instance, broader heads like the hexagon, cap or flanged types offer a larger surface area, enhancing their ability to distribute higher loads. This makes them ideal for robust structural integrity applications, from assembly lines to heavy machinery.

Manufacturability

The ease with which screws can be produced and integrated into an assembly process is a crucial consideration for manufacturers. Some screw head types are designed to streamline production, offering advantages like compatibility with automated assembly lines or reducing the risk of damage during installation. The choice of screw head can significantly affect the overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness of manufacturing, guiding engineers towards options that balance performance with practicality in production environments.

Aesthetics

The visual impact of screw heads cannot be underestimated, especially in consumer products, architectural design and other applications where appearance is a significant consideration. Screw head types like countersunk allow for a sleek, flush finish, blending seamlessly with the surrounding material. These head profiles can even be paired with other visual finishes such as our matte black AccuBlack finish for a near-invisible look.

Security

In scenarios where tamper resistance and safety are paramount, the design of the screw head becomes a key security feature. Specialised screw heads, such as the Kinmar range of security bolts, are engineered to deter unauthorised removal, requiring specific tools for installation and extraction. This feature is crucial in public infrastructure, consumer electronics and automotive components, where deterring access can help avoid safety risks or warranty breaches.

By addressing each of these factors, the variety of screw head types represents a meticulous balance between functional requirements and practical constraints, embodying the principle that the right tool for the right job extends to even the smallest precision screws. Let's take a look at each one under a spotlight.

Cap Head

Cap head screws, known for their durability and strength, are a cornerstone in precision engineering and assembly. Their defining feature is its cylindrical, flat top, which allows for a higher torque to be applied. This design is optimised for use with hex sockets and Torx drives, making them easily identifiable and distinguishable from other types of screws.

Advantages

• High Torque: Ideal for applications requiring a tight, secure fastening with high load bearing.

• Durability: Resistant to heavy loads and environmental conditions making them suitable for demanding applications.

Disadvantages

• Protrusion: They often sit quite proud from the workpiece surface, which can pose a snagging risk.

• Space Requirement: The relatively tall profile and internal drive type requires ample space to operate, limiting accessibility in tight spaces.

Preferred Industries

Favoured in aerospace, automotive and heavy machinery for their robustness, cap head screws are crucial in applications where failure is not an option, such as aircraft engine assemblies where their ability to withstand high torque and extreme conditions without compromising the integrity of the connection makes them indispensable.

 

SHOP CAP HEAD SCREWS

Button Head

Button head screws are versatile and widely used for their low-profile design and aesthetic appeal. Their defining feature is a round, low-profile top that blends more smoothly with surfaces. This design is also optimised for use with hexagon sockets and Torx drives, offering a balance between strength and appearance.

Advantages

• Aesthetic Integration: The smooth, rounded head offers a pleasing visual finish that integrates well with the design of assemblies.

• Moderate Torque: While not supporting as high torque as cap heads, they provide sufficient torque for a wide range of applications.

• Accessibility: The low profile allows for better accessibility in tighter spaces compared to taller screw heads.

• Anti-Ligature: The smooth surface and lack of protrusions mean screws with this head type can be used in sensitive environments where operator safety and risk to the public must be minimised.

Disadvantages

• Torque Capacity: Lower torque capacity compared to cap head screws, which may limit their use in highly demanding applications.

Preferred Industries

Button head screws are a favourite in consumer electronics, furniture assembly and automotive interiors, where their aesthetic appeal and functional performance are highly valued. In a kit-car dashboard, for example, button head screws are used to assemble dials and gloveboxes in a way that is both secure and visually appealing, ensuring a sleek, unobtrusive finish.

 

SHOP BUTTON HEAD SCREWS

Pan Head

Pan head screws are versatile and widely used for their practical design, featuring a rounded top and a flat bearing surface underneath. This allows the screw to sit above the surface of the material, providing a secure fastening with a neat appearance. They are typically driven with a Phillips, slotted, or Torx driver, making them easily adaptable to various applications.

Advantages

• Wide Application: Suitable for use in a variety of materials, including metal, wood, and plastic, for both aesthetic and structural purposes.

• High Torque: Capable of being tightly fastened, ensuring a secure grip in the assembled parts.

• Aesthetic Appeal: The rounded head offers a clean look, making it suitable for visible applications where appearance matters.

Disadvantages

• Protrusion: The head remains above the surface, which might interfere with other components or affect the final product's appearance in certain applications.
• Limited Load Distribution: The flat bearing surface is smaller compared to flanged screws, which may limit load distribution over a wider area.

Preferred Industries

Pan head screws are a popular choice across a broad spectrum of industries, including electronics, where they are used to secure components within devices. Their adaptability and neat finish make them ideal for projects where the appearance of the screw is as important as its function.

 

SHOP PAN HEAD SCREWS

Countersunk Head

Countersunk head screws are engineered for applications where a smooth surface finish is essential. Their defining feature is a conical top that allows the screw to sit flush with or below the surface of the material into a matching tapped hole with a countersink. This design is optimised for use with almost all drive types including socket, Torx, slotted, Phillips and more, ensuring near-endless compatibility for various projects.

Advantages

• Flush Finish: Ideal for applications requiring a smooth, flush surface without protrusions to avoid snagging.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Provides a clean, polished look, enhancing the overall appearance of the assembly.

• Variety: Available in almost all drive types imaginable making cost and compatibility simple.

• Anti-Ligature: The flush finish means screws with this head type can be used in environments where any risk to the user or bystanders is unacceptable, for example, Prisons or Hospitals.

Disadvantages

• Limited Torque: The design does not support as high a torque application as cap or button head screws.

• Special Preparation: Requires countersinking the hole before installation, which adds a step to the assembly process.

Preferred Industries

Countersunk head screws are particularly valued in the metal fabrication and aerospace industries. In aeroplane fuselage assembly, for example, their ability to maintain a flush surface reduces aerodynamic drag, contributing to the efficiency and performance of the aircraft.

 

SHOP COUNTERSUNK SCREWS

Raised Countersunk Head

Raised countersunk head screws combine the flush surface benefits of a countersunk head with the aesthetic appeal of a slightly protruding dome. Their defining feature is a smooth, tapered surface that transitions into a slightly rounded top, designed to sit almost flush with the surface while providing a decorative finish. This style is commonly used with Torx, Phillips, Pozi or slotted drives, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits.

Advantages

• Semi-Flush Finish: Allows for a near-flush finish that still allows for no snagging.

• Versatile Aesthetics: Suitable for use in a variety of materials and projects where appearance is important.

Disadvantages

• Limited Drive Availability: While offering most drive types, they may not be as widely available compared to regular countersunk variants.

• Preparation Required: Similar to countersunk screws, a countersinking process is needed, which could add time to project completion.

Preferred Industries

Raised countersunk head screws are preferred in industries where both functionality and aesthetics are key. In the furniture industry, they are used for their ability to provide a safe, secure fit while maintaining the sleek appearance of pieces.

 

SHOP RAISED COUNTERSUNK SCREWS

Hexagon Head

Hexagon head bolts, a fundamental component in heavy-duty machinery, are recognised by their six-sided head, which provides a robust grasp for tools. This design is primarily compatible with wrenches and spanners, offering a straightforward approach to assembly and maintenance. These bolts are a staple in both industrial and domestic settings for their versatility and reliability.

Advantages

• High Torque Capacity: Enables the application of significant force, ensuring tight and secure fastenings.

• Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of applications, from heavy machinery to household furniture.

• Ease of Use: The hexagonal shape allows for easy tightening and loosening with common tools.

• Vertical Access: As the hexagonal shape can be driven from the side, these fasteners can be used in spaces where vertical access to the component is not possible. 

Disadvantages

• Protrusion: Like cap head screws, they do not sit flush with the surface, potentially interfering with other components or creating a snagging risk.

• Space For Tools: We've all been there. Due to the size of spanners and wrenches, installation and removal often require a large area around the fastener to allow the tool to turn.

Preferred Industries

Hexagon head bolts are ubiquitous across various sectors but are particularly valued in structural engineering, automotive and manufacturing. Their ability to handle high stress and ease of use make them ideal for fabrications requiring robust assembly, such as bridge design, where their durability and strength play a critical role in ensuring long-term stability and safety.

 

SHOP HEXAGON HEAD BOLTS

Cheese Head

Cheese head screws, named for their resemblance to a wheel of cheese, feature a disc-shaped head with a tapered outer edge and a flat top. They are commonly used with slotted drive types, offering a practical balance between torque application and simplicity. These screws are known for their moderate profile and wide bearing surface, which helps distribute the load evenly.

Advantages

• Even Load Bearing: The wide head provides a larger surface area, allowing for moderate torque and load-bearing application.

• Aesthetics: The unique profile of the cheese head screw offers a visually pleasing finish for visible applications.

Disadvantages

• Limited Torque Capacity: Not suitable for high-torque applications where a more secure fastening is required.

• Protrusion: The head sticks out from the surface, which may not be ideal in all applications.

• Slotted Limitation: The drive type available is only slotted which may not be suitable for all projects.

Preferred Industries

Cheese head screws are particularly favoured in electronics and precision engineering, where their aesthetic appeal and functionality align with the requirements of delicate assembly tasks. They are commonly used in the assembly of electronic devices, such as laptops and cameras, where their even load distribution is critical to protect sensitive components from damage during assembly.

 

SHOP CHEESE HEAD SCREWS

Fillister Head

Fillister head screws, recognised by their cylindrical profile with a slightly domed top, stand out for their combination of strength and versatility. Their design, which also features a slotted drive, allows for a higher torque application similar to that of cap head screws and distributes load very evenly.

Advantages

• High Torque Capacity: Perfectly suited for applications that demand secure, tight fastenings capable of supporting high loads.

• Durable: Capable of high torque application, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications.

Disadvantages

• Protrusion: While offering a lower profile than some alternatives, the head still protrudes, which still presents a snag risk.

• Slotted Drive: The presence of only the slotted drive type limits their application to specific project needs.

Preferred Industries

Fillister head screws are widely used in machinery and manufacturing, especially in situations requiring adjustment or frequent disassembly such as access panels. Their robust design makes them a preferred choice in the assembly of industrial machinery, where their strength and adaptability support the integrity and maintenance of complex systems.

 

SHOP FILLISTER HEAD SCREWS

Capstan Head

Capstan head screws, closely related to fillister head screws but with a slightly taller profile, share the slotted drive type and are tailored for specialised engineering applications. Their defining feature includes holes through the head, which allow for securing and locking the head in place with pins or wire, providing a robust securing solution for critical assemblies.

Advantages

• Enhanced Security: The holes through the head enable the use of locking wires or pins, ensuring a secure fastening that even under vibration cannot move past a certain degree.

• Enhanced Torque Performance: Ideal for scenarios requiring robust fastenings that can sustain significant load capacities.

Disadvantages

• Increased Headroom: The taller profile and need to access the locking wire or pin may not be suitable where space is a premium.

• Slotted Drive Limitation: The exclusive use of a slotted drive restricts its applicability to certain specialised project requirements.

Preferred Industries

Capstan head screws are particularly advantageous in the aerospace, automotive and military sectors, where their ability to be securely locked in place minimises the risk of loosening due to vibrations or operational stresses. Their unique blend of manual accessibility and enhanced security makes them ideal for applications demanding both precision and durability.

 

SHOP CAPSTAN HEAD SCREWS

Grub (Headless)

Grub screws, also known as set screws, are headless fasteners typically featuring an internal drive mechanism such as a socket or Torx drive. Their no-head design makes them ideal for sitting flush with or below the surface of the component they are fastened to. These screws are integral to precision engineering, especially in securing parts without the need for the applied force the head provides.

Advantages

• Compact Design: Their headless nature allows for a seamless finish, making them perfect for applications where space is a premium and aesthetics matter.

• Versatility: Available in various sizes, tip shapes and materials, grub screws are versatile for an array of precision applications.

• Adjustability: Due to no head, the "applied force" of a grub screw relates to its tip, which can be finely tuned to apply lots of pressure or just a small amount depending on your project needs.

Disadvantages

• Limited Torque: Limited Torque: Without a head, the torque that can be applied without stripping the drive is substantially less due to the significantly reduced drive size that has to sit within the shaft.

Preferred Industries

Grub screws are widely used across electronics, machine manufacturing and precision engineering fields for their ability to provide secure fastenings in tight spaces. They are particularly valued in situations where a smooth, flush surface is required, such as in securing gears onto shafts or in applications where protruding heads can interfere with mechanical operation or aesthetics.

 

SHOP GRUB SCREWS

Carriage / Square Undercut Head

Carriage bolts, distinguished by their square undercut and rounded driveless head, are designed for aesthetics and functional integration into wood and metal assemblies. The square section under the head slots into a square hole in the substrate, preventing the screw from turning as it's driven, which is particularly useful in applications where access to tighten the bolt is limited.

Advantages

• Aesthetic Integration: The smooth, tool-less rounded head provides a pleasing finish, blending seamlessly with wooden structures.

• Anti-Rotation: The square undercut locks into place, preventing rotation during installation and ensuring a stable, secure fit.

• Ease of Installation: Designed for through-holes, allowing for easy alignment and fastening from one side.

• Heavy Duty: Specifically designed to excel in high-load applications within joinery, offering enhanced strength and durability where precision and aesthetic integration are key.

Disadvantages

• Material Limitation: Primarily used in wood due to the specific design of the undercut. It can be used in other materials where a matching recess is created but this requires extra workpiece preparation.

Preferred Industries

Carriage bolts are extensively used in woodworking, furniture making, and industrial or decorative metalwork. Their design is particularly favoured for applications requiring a clean, finished look with the added benefit of anti-rotation stability. Ideal for constructing frames, outdoor decking and in any scenario where the elegance of the screw head is a consideration alongside its practical utility.

 

SHOP CARRIAGE BOLTS

Mushroom / Truss Head

Mushroom head and truss head screws are recognised for their broad, low-profile domed head that offers a larger surface area than most other profiles. This design distributes the applied torque over a wider area, making them ideal for applications where even load application is crucial. The low-profile dome facilitates a less intrusive finish on the assembled piece, and they are typically engaged with Phillips or slotted drives, offering versatility in usage.

Advantages

• Distributed Clamping Force: Ideal for applications that require a gentle yet secure fastening, minimising the risk of material damage.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Provides a smooth, clean look on the surface, enhancing the overall appearance of the assembly.

Disadvantages

• Limited Load Bearing: While offering a wider clamping area, they are not designed for heavy-load applications and are designed for even distribution.

Preferred Industries

Mushroom or truss head screws are highly regarded in industries such as furniture manufacture where the balance between aesthetic appeal and practical functionality is critical. A prime example of their use is in securing the panels of flat-pack furniture, where they ensure a firm hold without damaging the wood's surface.

 

SHOP MUSHROOM SCREWS

Eye / Hook Head

Eye or hook bolts are specialised fasteners with a loop or hook at one end, designed for attaching cables, wires or other items that require support or the ability to be hung. These screws are typically threaded on the other end to be secured into a tapped workpiece or fixed with nuts, providing a reliable anchor point.

Advantages

• Versatile Attachment: Perfect for applications requiring the suspension or securing of items, offering a strong anchor point.

• Ease of Installation: Can be easily installed into various materials, allowing for quick and efficient setup.

• Load Distribution: The eye or hook design evenly distributes weight across the fastening point, enhancing stability and safety.

Disadvantages

• Limited Fastening: Not designed for traditional fixing purposes, which may limit their use in some projects.

• Visible Appeal: The protruding hook or eye can be visually intrusive in certain applications where aesthetics are a concern.

Preferred Industries

Eye or hook head screws are indispensable in theatrical rigging and electrical installations. For instance, in stage setups, they are used to securely hang lighting equipment, ensuring safety and functionality.

 

SHOP EYE BOLTS

Hand Grip Head

Hand grip head and wing screws are uniquely designed for manual tightening and loosening, featuring a textured or moulded surface on the head that provides a secure grip. This design eliminates the need for tools during installation or adjustment, making them ideal for applications where quick and frequent modifications are necessary.

Advantages

• Tool-Free Adjustment: Enables easy manual tightening and loosening without the need for additional tools.

• Secure Grip: The shape and surface offer excellent grip, reducing the risk of slipping and allowing for more precise control.

• Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of applications where adjustments need to be made on the fly.

• Overtightening: Since installation is done by hand, it's difficult to apply too much torque or risk damaging the fastener with power tools.

Disadvantages

• Limited Torque Application: Hand tightening may not provide the same level of torque as tool-assisted methods, potentially affecting the fastening's overall security.

• Space: There will always be a need for access of hands for installation and removal which isn't always possible if space is a premium.

Preferred Industries

Hand grip and wing head screws are particularly valuable in the consumer electronics and laboratory equipment sectors, where frequent adjustments to components or settings are common. For example, in camera equipment, they allow for quick adjustments to tripod mounts or accessory attachments, ensuring ease of use and flexibility in various shooting environments.

 

SHOP HAND SCREWS

Flanged Head

While not a singular type and more of a modification of the previous head types mentioned, flanged head screws feature a unique design with a built-in washer-like flange under the head, providing a wider surface area for load distribution. This versatile design can be applied to various types of screw heads, including pan, button, hexagon and more, enhancing their utility across a broad spectrum of applications. The flange eliminates the need for a separate washer, simplifying assembly and improving hold in critical applications.

Advantages

• Integrated Flange: Offers greater surface area for load distribution, reducing the risk of damage to the assembly surface.

• Versatility: Can be combined with different screw head types, making it adaptable to a wide range of applications while reaping the benefits of other types.

• Simplified Assembly: The built-in flange negates the need for a separate washer, streamlining the assembly process.

Disadvantages

• Limited Countersinking: The flange prevents the screw from being countersunk, which may be undesirable in applications requiring a flush surface finish.

• Weight & Size: The addition of the flange increases the overall size and weight of the screw, which might be a consideration in weight-sensitive applications or for unwanted protrusions.

Preferred Industries

Flanged head screws are widely used in automotive and machinery manufacturing, where their ability to distribute load evenly is critical. For example, in the automotive industry, flanged head screws are often used to securely fasten body panels and frames, ensuring a tight, durable hold that withstands vibrations and stress without the need for additional washers.

 

SHOP FLANGED HEAD SCREWS

Shoulder Head

More of an amalgamation of head and shaft type, shoulder screws, characterised by their precision tolerance and an extended non-threaded shoulder under the head, are engineered for pivotal connections where components must rotate or slide. These screws allow for the accurate positioning of parts, offering a smooth bearing surface for moving parts to rest against. The head itself can be of various types, but typically they feature a cap or pan head profile and socket, Torx or Pozi drives for high torque application.

Advantages

• Uniqueness: The shoulder provides a precise bearing surface, crucial for the accurate assembly of moving parts which no other screw type offers.

• High Torque Application: Allows for secure fastening, capable of supporting significant axial loads without compromising the assembly's integrity.

Disadvantages

• Cost: The precision manufacturing of shoulder head screws can result in higher costs compared to standard screws due to such accurate tolerances.

• Complexity in Specification: Requires accurate specification to ensure the shoulder diameter and screw length precisely match the application needs.

Preferred Industries

Shoulder head screws are indispensable in mechanical and industrial engineering sectors, especially in applications requiring the free movement of joined parts, such as gears, pulleys and moving arms. An example of their application can be found in robotics, where shoulder screws are used to attach arms or legs, allowing for smooth and controlled movement while maintaining strong axial alignment and support.

 

SHOP SHOULDER SCREWS

Captive Shaft

Captive screws, while more formally a shaft type rather than a head type, are engineered with a unique design that prevents them from being fully removed from a panel or component, ensuring they remain attached even when loosened. This feature is particularly useful in preventing loss or misplacement during maintenance or assembly processes, making them a staple in industries where component security and safety are paramount.

Advantages

• Loss Prevention: Designed to stay attached to the component, reducing the risk of losing the screw during disassembly.

• Compliance: Meets safety and regulatory requirements in industries where loose parts can pose a risk.

• Ease of Use: Facilitates quick and efficient maintenance or assembly, as screws remain with the component or panel.

• Various Head Combos: The shaft type can be combined with cap, pan, button and countersunk head profiles.

Disadvantages

• Complexity in Manufacturing: Requires specialised design and manufacturing processes, potentially increasing production costs.

Preferred Industries

Captive head screws are essential in the aerospace, electronics and medical device industries, where the risk of loose components can compromise safety and functionality. For instance, in the assembly of aircraft interiors, captive screws are used to secure panels and overhead bins, ensuring that screws do not become loose during flight and pose a safety hazard.

 

SHOP CAPTIVE SCREWS

Kinmar Security Head

With a profile somewhat similar to a cap and cheese head combined, Kinmar security head bolts are engineered for high-security applications. The beauty of this head type is its unique patented design with grooves notched around the circumference of the head that requires a special tool for installation and removal, bridging head type and drive type together. This significantly reduces the risk of tampering or unauthorised removal making them ideal for sensitive or high-value installations.

Advantages

• Enhanced Security: The proprietary design offers superior resistance against tampering and unauthorised access.

• High Torque Application: Despite their security focus, these bolts still allow for a tight, secure fastening suitable for high-load applications.

Disadvantages

• Tool Availability: The need for a special tool can be a limitation if the tool is lost or not readily available.

• Cost: Typically more expensive than standard bolts due to the specialised design and manufacturing process.

Preferred Industries

Kinmar security head bolts are particularly valued in industries where security is paramount, such as in public infrastructure and large machinery. They are crucial in applications where the risk of tampering needs to be minimised, such as in securing public signage, electronic payment terminals and in the assembly of safety-critical components.

 

SHOP KINMAR SECURITY BOLTS

Screw Head Types Chart & Print Off

At Accu, we understand that recognising the vast array of screw head types, names and their specific applications can be a daunting task, even for seasoned engineers. To assist in navigating this complex landscape, we have created a printable screw head types chart which summarises everything we've discussed in this article.

 

PRINTABLE SCREW HEAD TYPES CHART

 

This handy reference tool is designed to be an invaluable resource, providing a quick and easy way to identify various screw heads at a glance. Simply print off this chart and keep it accessible in your workspace to ensure you always choose the right screw head for your projects, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in all your endeavours.

Tying Up Different Screw Head Types

So, having navigated the intricate universe of screw head types, from their defining characteristics to their specific uses in precision engineering, this article has aimed to provide you with an exhaustive overview of this essential component. Screw heads, as we've delved into, play a crucial role in determining the functionality, aesthetics and application suitability of fasteners in various projects.

Key Takeaways:

• Diverse Screw Head Types: Understanding the differences between screw head types is fundamental for selecting the right fastener for your project, impacting everything from torque application to aesthetic finish.

• Balancing Act: Each screw head type comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it imperative to weigh these factors carefully during the selection process.

• Industry Preferences: Different industries have distinct preferences for screw head types, influenced by factors like load-bearing, manufacturability, aesthetics and security.

For a deeper dive into the world of fasteners and their applications, explore our related content:

• "Screw Drive Types" - A parallel article to this one which looks in detail at the vast amount of drive types.

• "How To Measure A Screw" - Tips for how to measure a screw for multiple dimensions.

And there we have it, equipped with this detailed guide on screw head types, you're now better prepared to make informed decisions, ensuring the success and durability of your engineering projects. Whether you're working on a delicate electronic assembly or constructing robust machinery, the right screw head type can make all the difference in achieving optimal performance and reliability.

FAQs

Q: How do you identify screw heads?

A: You can identify screw heads by their distinct shape and side profile. Try looking at our screw head types chart above to find a match of what you have. For clarity, head type and drive type are unique attributes to look for. The screw head refers to the shape and not necessarily the tooling that interacts with the head.

Q: What is the most common screw head type?

A: While there isn't a singular most common screw head type, cap, pan and countersunk are the most popular range Accu sell by far. Our engineers agree and tend to opt for one of these three in typical projects due to their versatility and where a specific head type isn't needed.

Q: How do I know what screw I need?

A: Determine the screw you need by considering the material you're working with, the load it needs to bear, and the environment it will be exposed to. For precise applications, consult our screw head selection guide above or speak with one of our engineers.

Q: What is the difference between a countersunk and pan head?

A: A countersunk head is designed to sit flush with the surface of the material within a countersink, creating a smooth finish. In contrast, a pan head protrudes above the material, providing a higher profile and streamlined installation process.

Q: What is the difference between a bolt head and a screw head?

A: Bolt heads (hexagon heads) typically require a wrench or a socket for installation and are characterised by their outer hexagon shape which externally engages with tools. Screw heads are different as the drive type is typically located inside the head and is driven by a tool being inserted rather than being wrapped around the edges.