A self-tapping screw is a screw that can tap its own hole as it is driven into the material. More narrowly, self-tapping is used only to describe a specific type of thread-cutting screw intended to produce a thread in relatively soft material or sheet materials, excluding wood screws.

Tapping screws are considered externally threaded fasteners that "tap" their own mating threads in metallic and non-metallic (such as plastic) materials. Some screws require a hole (exact hole size is often important), while others drill their own hole ("self drilling").

The most important difference between self-tapping and self-drilling screws is that self-tapping screws cannot go through metal without a pilot hole, which must be pre-drilled or pre-punched.

The EJOT self-tapping screws form the thread in a pre-drilled hole. They feature a coarse or fine pitch thread. Learn more.

May 17, 2024 · Self-tapping screws are designed to drill their own holes in materials like wood, metal and plastic, creating precise threads without pre-drilled holes. There are two main types: thread-forming screws, which are suitable for plastic and to prevent loosening, and thread-cutting screws, which are ideal for wood and metal but may strip the threads ...

Mar 25, 2022 · Self-tapping screws with a pointed nose do not require a pilot hole. Instead, the self-tapping screw will cut a thread into the material as it is driven in, holding it together. Self-tapping screws are commonly used to join materials such as …

As the name implies, self-tapping screws drill their own "little tunnels" by cutting precise threads when they are screwed into wood, plastic or metal. They are useful for products that you need to maintain regularly where you need to dissemble and reassemble the item along the same threads.

Jun 27, 2023 · Self-tapping screws are screws that are designed to create their own thread as they are driven into a material. Machine screws are screws that are designed to be used with a nut or tapped hole. Self-tapping screws are typically made from softer metals like aluminium, brass, or copper.

Aug 25, 2023 · Learn how to choose and use self-tapping screws for different materials. This guide covers thread-forming and thread-cutting screws, their sizes, styles, and installation methods. Self-tapping screws are a versatile and reliable fastening solution for …

May 31, 2023 · Self-tapping screws are different from traditional screws as they tap their own threads when screwed into plastic, wood, or metal. Self-tapping screws are usually split into two variants - thread forming and thread tapping.