Written by Jody Muelaner A Torx screw is a type of screw characterized by a six-lobed, star-patterned screw drive. Torx drive is a trademark commonly referred to as star drive or, simply, a six-lobe. It’s often abbreviated to TX or 6lobe. The ISO name is hexalobular. Torx is available as an internal and external drive…

Written by Jody Muelaner Combi head screws, also called combination head or combo head screws, are externally threaded fasteners with torquing heads. They feature a socket designed to engage with two or more types of internal drivers. These are not to be confused with combi screws, which are fasteners designed for more than one application.…

Written by Jody Muelaner A shoulder screw, also called a shoulder bolt, has a shank with a larger diameter immediately below the head that “steps down” to a smaller diameter for the threaded length. The change in diameter provides a “shoulder,” which can be firmly tightened against the part to that which it is screwed.…

Typically, those familiar with the industry will think of SUS304 or SUSXM7 types of stainless steel when considering material for screws. However, there are many other types of stainless steel with distinct properties depending on the application. This means certain concerns — such as corrosion from harsh environments — can be reduced or eliminated by…

Captive screws are fasteners designed to remain attached to guards or equipment. A conventional screw typically passes through a clearance hole in one part and then screws into a threaded hole in a second part — so the first part is clamped to the second. However, when the fastener is unscrewed from the threaded hole…

NBK has launched a new video with tips on correctly using its clamping screws. The video describes usage methods for screws with ball-shaped tips for securely fixing workpieces. NBK is a developer and manufacturer of miniature couplings, special screws, and machine elements for advanced industries, including manufacturing equipment for semiconductors, robotics, machine tools, and medical…

By Dr. Jody Muelaner A screw is a broad category of mechanical fastener with a threaded shaft, designed to screw into a part. This includes wood screws and self-topping screws, which have a tapered shaft with sharp threads designed to cut a mating thread in the part to which they are fastened. It also includes…