While we are often consumed by the bigger image, it is the parts that make all the difference. Only the perfect parts can create a perfect whole. On the other hand, one faulty part can bring down the whole, no matter how perfect it may seem. The screw plays this vital part in a construction. It is that vital component that holds together different parts, making it possible for us to build complicated shapes and structures.
Screws are made of metals, such as brass, bronze, steel, titanium, and monel. Of these brass is one of the most popular screws in applications like woodwork and marine implements. This is because brass has the many advantages that come form the metal’s unique properties. It is also one of the most aesthetic components to work with. Among brass screws the brass machine screws have the added advantage of machine manufacturing.
Different types of brass screws:
In general a screw will have circular grooves on its body known as threads. But all screws are not the same. Depending on their application and manufacturing process, there are different types of screws. Screws can also be differentiated according to the shape of their head, driving method, types of threads etc. Here is a brief and more common classification according to usage and design:
Wood Screws: These are used mainly to mainly fasten two pieces of wood together. Available in pan, flat, or oval-heads, wood screws have fewer threads per inch than machine or sheet metal screws. Most wood screws, in fact, have a partial unthreaded shank just below the head. This unthreaded portion is designed to ensure that the top plank stays flushed tight against the lower plank without the threads shredding through the wood.
Sheet Metal Screws: Usually threaded from the head to tip, the sheet metal screws have sharp threads that can cut into metal. These screws can also be used on wood and are often used to attach a metal sheet to wood.
Drywall Screws: Designed to attach wood to drywall, the drywall screws is used in many other applications. It is available in both coarse and fine thread versions.
Machine screws: Brass machine screws have uniform thread formation. This also means that they are threaded to go into precisely threaded holes or bolts. Machine screws are used in fastening parts of machines, tools, appliances etc.
Screws classification according to the driving method:
Slotted: This has a linear slot at the head often found in older screws. The common flat-head screwdriver can be used with the slotted screw.
Phillips: The Phillip head has a cross-shaped slot, which is a simple modification of the slotted screw. The slots do not run to the edge. This along with the large mating surface ensures that this is an easy screw to work with.
Square: Also known as the Robertson screw head, the square head has an even better grip. The square slot at the top requires a corresponding shaped screwdriver.
Round and Pan heads: As the name suggests, the round headed screw gets the name from the shape of its head. The pan head is an evolution of the round-headed screw. It is slightly thicker at the circumference, thereby providing a better grip.
Hex: Short of hexagonal, this screw again gets its name from the shape. There are two type of designs in hex screws. One has a hexagonal recession and requires an Allen wench. The second type has a head with a hexagonal shape and needs a socket wrench for manoeuvring.
Flat Head: The flat headed screw is preferred in woodwork because it can be driven flush against the wood surface or just below its without any edges sticking out.
Oval Head: This is similar to the flat head, except for a decorative top.
Common heads in brass machine screws:
Flat head and hex screws are also common in machine screws. Other heads include:
Socket screw: Often used in place of hex screws, the socket screw is more space saving because it does not requires a wrench.
Button head: Similar to the round head, this is preferred for its decorative detail.
Shoulder Screws: These screws are distinguished by their ground shanks that are allowed to stay out of the hole. The screw is used to secure without clamping.
Brass machine screws are preferred for their strength, aesthetic value and non-corrosive properties. The different types of heads simply give us more flexibility when using these screws.