Machine Screws

Machine screws are precision-engineered fasteners characterised by their uniform, accurate threading along a blunt-tipped shank. Most are fully threaded, running the full length of the fastener.

Crucial for precise assembly in industries ranging from automotive and aerospace to electronics and industrial manufacturing, machine screws are available in various head styles, drive types, and materials.

Types of Machine Screws

The screws are manufactured from a range of materials to suit various applications and environments. Materials include:

Countersunk Machine Screws

This specific type of machine screw features a V-shaped, flat head designed to sit flush with or below the surface of the material when fully driven. This design creates a smooth and is ideal for applications where a snag-free surface is critical.

Cheesehead Machine Screws

Characterised by their distinct cylindrical head, cheesehead machine screws provide increased strength and a deeper drive recess for better tool engagement, especially in applications requiring higher torque.

Truss Head Screws

Truss head screws feature a distinctive wide and slightly rounded head. This design provides a larger bearing surface than other screw heads, allowing for better load distribution and reduced risk of pull-through in thinner materials.

Pan Head Screws

Resembling an inverted frying pan, pan head screws come with a wide, low-profile top that offers a broad bearing surface, This allows clamping force to be distributed effectively, minimising material damage and ensuring a secure connection.

Hex Head Screws

Easily identifiable by their six-sided head, hex head screws are designed to be driven with a wrench or socket. This allows for greater torque application, making them ideal for applications where a strong and secure connection is required.

Round Head Screws

Round head screws feature a domed or spherical head that sits proud of the material surface once installed. This design provides a smooth finish while offering a larger bearing surface than some other head types.

What are Machine Screws Made of?

Machine screws in NZ are manufactured from a range of materials to suit various applications and environments. These include:

• Brass: Valued for their excellent corrosion resistance and good electrical conductivity, brass screws are commonly used in decorative applications, marine environments, and electrical components where rust resistance is crucial.
• Steel: Steel machine screws are the most common and economical choice, offering high strength and durability for general-purpose fastening. Often coated (e.g., zinc-plated, black oxide) to provide corrosion resistance, they are used in a vast array of industrial, commercial, and residential applications.
• Stainless steel – A4 (316) and A2 (304) grades: A2 (304) grade is widely used in everyday applications as it offers good corrosion resistance in general atmospheric conditions. A4 (316) grade, or marine grade, provides enhanced resistance against chlorides and acids, making it ideal for marine, chemical and coastal environments.
• Nylon: Nylon machine screws are lightweight, non-conductive, and offer excellent chemical resistance against certain solvents and alkalis. They are frequently used in electronics and medical devices.

Head and Drive Types

Selecting the right head and drive types for your machine screws will ensure that you get the right fit for your purposes.

Head Types

Machine screw head types refer to the shape of the screw's top, dictating its aesthetic and how it sits on or in the material, such as flush (countersunk) or protruding (pan, round, hex).

Drive Types

Drive types define the recess or shape on the head that engages with a screwdriver or wrench, influencing the torque achievable and resistance to cam-out, like slotted, Phillips, or Torx.

Factors to Consider When Choosing M2 Machine Screws

Choosing the correct machine screw involves a careful assessment of several factors to ensure optimal performance, durability, and safety for your specific application. Here are the key considerations:

• Environment: This heavily influences material and finish choices due to exposure to moisture, chemicals, or extreme temperatures.
• Load requirements: Will the screw be subject to tensile (pulling apart) or shear (sideways) forces? What is the expected weight or stress?
• Vibration: For applications with significant vibration (e.g., automotive, machinery), consider finer threads or specialised/ locking mechanisms to prevent loosening.
• Thread type: Larger, more widely spaced threads are faster to install, less prone to cross threading, and generally stronger in softer materials. On the other hand, smaller, more closely spaced threads offer greater resistance to vibration and higher clamping force, ideal for precision applications and harder materials.

Applications of Machine Screws

Machine screws have their uses across many industries in NZ, including:

• Machinery and equipment assembly: They are extensively used to join metal components, secure covers and panels, and assemble intricate mechanisms.
• Household and industrial appliances: Machine screws hold together internal parts, attach external casings and secure electrical connections in washing machines, refrigerators, factory automation equipment and more.
• Electronic devices: The small size and precise threads of machine screws are vital for securing circuit boards, mounting delicate components, and assembling casings for smartphones, computers, and other intricate electronics.
• Automotive: Machine screws are employed throughout vehicles for securing interior trim, electrical components, engine parts, and body panels, contributing to overall structural integrity and safety.

Look to RS NZ for the Machine Screws You Need

Do you require machine screws for various applications? RS NZ is a reliable distributor of various types of machine screws, and we stock brands that include RS Pro, RND and Hammond.

We also carry other essentials you may need, such as hex bolts, socket screws and security screws. Buy your countersunk machine screws, engineering screws, countersunk bolts and other accessories online today. To find out more about our ordering process, delivery services, and delivery fees, please refer to our delivery page.