Types and Characteristics of Small Screws
(I) Classification by Head Shape
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Flat-Head Screws: With a flat head, they are often used in occasions requiring flush alignment with the surface, such as furniture panels and decorative covers.
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Round-Head Screws: Featuring a circular head, they are suitable for connection points that need a certain protrusion height, such as axial fixing in mechanical structures.
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Countersunk Screws: The head can be completely recessed into the material surface, ensuring an attractive appearance without interfering with the installation of other components.
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Half-Countersunk Screws: The head is partially recessed into the material and partially exposed, combining aesthetics and practicality. They are often used in scenarios requiring both appearance and fastening effectiveness.
Classification by Thread Type
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General Thread Screws: Suitable for most universal connections, such as building structures and furniture.
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Self-Tapping Screws: Capable of cutting threads in materials by themselves without pre-drilling, they are widely used in wood, plastic, and thin metal sheets.
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Fine-Thread Screws: With a small pitch, they are suitable for high-precision fastening scenarios, such as precision instruments and electronic devices.
Classification by Material
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Carbon Steel Screws: High in strength and low in cost, they are suitable for general industrial and construction purposes.
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Stainless Steel Screws: Strong in corrosion resistance, they are applicable to humid environments or occasions with strong chemical corrosion.
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Aluminum Alloy Screws: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, they are often used in aerospace and automobile manufacturing.
Application Scenarios of Small Screws
Electronic Devices
In electronic devices, small screws are used to fix circuit boards, casings, and internal components. Their small size and high precision meet the space and stability requirements of electronic devices. For example, screws inside mobile phones, computers, and printers are mostly made of stainless steel or aluminum alloy to ensure durability and corrosion resistance.
Furniture Manufacturing
In furniture manufacturing, small screws are used to connect wood boards, metal parts, and plastic parts. Their half-countersunk design not only provides a good appearance but also prevents the screw heads from protruding completely, avoiding scratches or damage to other surfaces. For instance, flat-head or half-countersunk screws are mostly used in the assembly of cabinets, bookshelves, and office desks.
Construction Industry
In the construction industry, small screws are often used to fix gypsum boards, metal frames, and wooden structures. Their self-tapping function and high strength enable them to quickly and firmly fix various building materials. For example, self-tapping screws are indispensable fasteners in the construction of light steel keel ceilings and partition walls.
Automobile Manufacturing
In automobile manufacturing, small screws are used to fix interior panels, instrument panels, and body components. Their high strength and corrosion resistance allow them to cope with high-intensity tasks in automobile manufacturing. For example, screws in parts such as car seats and door interior panels are mostly made of stainless steel or aluminum alloy.
Home Appliance Manufacturing
In home appliance manufacturing, small screws are used to fix the casings and internal structures of devices such as washing machines, refrigerators, and air conditioners. Their self-tapping function and high strength enable them to quickly and firmly fix various home appliance components. For example, the casing screws of refrigerators and the motor fixing screws of washing machines all rely on small screws.
National Standards for Small Screws
The production and use of small screws strictly comply with national standards to ensure their quality and compatibility. For example:
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GB/T 847-2017: Specifies the dimensions and performance of cross-recessed half-countersunk self-tapping screws, applicable to the fastening of various materials.
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GB/T 15856.3-2002: Defines the specifications and requirements of cross-recessed half-countersunk self-drilling self-tapping screws, suitable for scenarios requiring direct drilling and fastening.
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GB/T 3098.24-2020: Regulates the performance of stainless steel and nickel alloy bolts for high-temperature service, applicable to high-temperature environments.
These standards provide clear specifications for the production, inspection, and use of small screws, ensuring their reliability and safety in different application scenarios.
Installation and Maintenance of Small Screws
Installation Methods
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Select the Appropriate Screw: Choose the right screw size and material based on material thickness, strength, and application scenario.
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Pre-Drilling (Optional): For hard materials (such as metal or hardwood), pre-drilling is recommended to prevent material cracking.
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Insert the Screw: Align the tip of the screw with the guide hole or material surface, ensuring the screw is perpendicular to the material surface.
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Tighten the Screw: Use a suitable screwdriver or power tool to rotate the screw clockwise, applying appropriate force until the screw is fully driven into the material.
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Check Fastening Effect: After tightening, check the fastening effect of the screw to ensure it is firm without loosening or slipping.
Maintenance Precautions
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Avoid Over-Tightening: Do not apply excessive force when tightening screws to prevent damage to the screws or materials.
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Regular Inspection: Regularly check the fastening effect of screws and replace loose or damaged screws in a timely manner.
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Storage Environment: Store screws in a dry environment free of corrosive gases to avoid rusting and damage.
Future Development of Small Screws
With the continuous advancement of technology, the materials and manufacturing processes of small screws are also constantly improving. For example, high-strength aluminum alloy screws and stainless steel screws are increasingly widely used to meet the needs of high-end fields such as aerospace and automobile manufacturing. At the same time, the emergence of intelligent screws has also brought new possibilities for the future development of industry. Intelligent screws can real-time monitor fastening force and environmental changes through built-in sensors, ensuring the safety and stability of equipment.
Conclusion
Though small, small screws play an irreplaceable role in modern industry and daily life. With their diversity and reliability, they connect every corner of the world. Whether in precision electronic devices or large building structures, small screws silently support the development of human society in their unique way. In the future, with the continuous progress of materials science and manufacturing technology, small screws will continue to provide more reliable guarantees for human production and life with their tiny yet powerful strength.