Screws are essential components found in virtually all products around us. They are widely used in construction, machinery, electronics, automobiles, furniture, and many other fields. Selecting the right screw directly affects the quality and safety of the product. However, because there are so many types of screws—each with specific uses and characteristics—choosing the appropriate one is not always easy.

This article provides a comprehensive explanation of screw basics, types, materials, surface treatments, and applications. It also covers specialized screws and the latest technologies, offering knowledge that helps those in the manufacturing field make better decisions in selecting and utilizing screws. We hope that a deeper understanding of screws will lead to improved product design and quality control.

A screw is a type of tool used to fasten objects together. By applying rotational force, it generates axial force to hold parts firmly. Most screws have spiral grooves on their outer surface known as threads, which create the fastening force. Screws are used extensively in fields such as construction, automobiles, machining, electronics, and furniture.

The basic functions of screws include:

Additionally, unlike adhesives or welding, screws can be reused, making them an excellent fastening method for disassembly and reuse.

There are many types of screws, classified by their application, shape, and function. Below are the major types and their characteristics:

Bolts are commonly used with nuts and are ideal for situations that require strong fastening. Variants include hex bolts and flange bolts.

Tapping screws are driven directly into pre-drilled materials, creating their own threads as they go. They are used for metals and plastics and help improve assembly efficiency.

Designed for use with wood, these screws have pointed tips and coarse threads for easy embedding. They are typically tightened manually or with power tools.

These are used to fasten parts in machinery and electronics. Some are paired with nuts, while others are threaded directly into tapped holes.

Screws tailored for special purposes include:

As evident, there is a wide variety of screws, and proper selection according to purpose is critical. The next section will explore screw materials and surface treatments in more detail.

The performance and durability of screws are greatly influenced by their material and surface treatment. By selecting the right combination, it’s possible to improve strength, corrosion resistance, and heat resistance.

Screw materials vary depending on the environment and required characteristics. Below are some representative materials:

The most common material for screws due to its low cost and high strength. It is often plated to improve corrosion resistance.

Highly corrosion-resistant material ideal for applications involving water, outdoor environments, food processing, or medical equipment.

Lightweight and strong, with excellent corrosion and heat resistance. Used in aerospace, medical equipment, and high-performance automotive parts. Its high cost is a drawback.

Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, but relatively low in strength. Mainly used in electronics or decorative applications.

Known for high electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance. Common in electronics, plumbing, and decorative applications (e.g., brass).

Screws are subject to corrosion and wear depending on the environment. Surface treatments can enhance durability. Common types include:

Coating the surface with a thin metallic layer to improve corrosion resistance and appearance.

Applied to iron screws, forming a black surface layer that provides mild rust protection and aesthetic appeal.

Paint is applied and cured to enhance corrosion and wear resistance. Common in decorative and harsh environment applications.

Applied to stabilize torque during fastening. Common methods include:

Selecting materials and surface treatments that match the environment and application is essential. The next section explains screw standards and dimensions in detail.

The required characteristics of a screw vary depending on its application. Choosing the wrong type can lead to issues such as insufficient strength or loosening. This section explains how to select appropriate screws for specific uses and key points to consider.

When fastening metal parts, strength and durability are key.

Because wood has fibers, screws must grip well to be effective.

Plastics are more fragile than metal or wood, requiring specialized screws.

For small and delicate parts, size and material selection is crucial.

Weather resistance and corrosion resistance are critical for outdoor and coastal use.

Choose materials suitable for the environment to ensure durability and corrosion resistance.

Proper size ensures sufficient holding force.

Affects workability and appearance—select based on usage.

Use proper tools for secure fastening.

Choosing the right screw improves product durability and safety. Understanding materials and shapes is crucial for proper selection. The next chapter will discuss specialized screws and cutting-edge technologies.

Screws are not limited to conventional fastening applications—there are also many designed for special environments or advanced functions. This chapter covers “security screws” specialized for anti-tampering, and “innovative screw technologies” that reflect the latest advancements.

Security screws are designed with special shapes that cannot be removed using common tools, preventing tampering or theft. They are used in public infrastructure, confidential equipment, electronics, and other areas requiring enhanced security.

New innovations in screw design have led to the development of high-performance, high-functionality screws.

Security screws and advanced screw technologies play vital roles across industries. In particular, the emergence of smart screws using IoT is expected to drive the future evolution of the screw industry. The next chapter will focus on screw maintenance and management.

Although screws are familiar and seemingly simple components, selecting the appropriate type, material, and design is crucial depending on the application. In this article, we covered everything from basic screw knowledge to usage-based selection and the latest technologies.

By using the right screws, you can significantly enhance safety, durability, and the overall quality of products and structures. With the continuous evolution of new materials and smart technologies, the potential of screws will only continue to expand.

We encourage readers to deepen their knowledge of screws and apply it thoughtfully to select and utilize them effectively in their respective fields.

Conclusion

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