Sheet metal screws are commonly used in the construction of airplanes. According to the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), most airplanes contain sheet metal in their construction. Assembling sheet metal, of course, requires the use of fasteners. There are sheet metal screws that are designed specifically for sheet metal. If you’re planning to buy sheet metal screws, there are several things you should consider.
Point Type
You should consider the point type when choosing sheet metal screws. All sheet metal screws have a pointed tip. While other types of screws may have a flat or semi-blunt tip, sheet metal screws have a pointed tip. With their pointed tip, you can easily drive them into sheet metal. But sheet metal screws are still available in different point types.
Some sheet metal screws have a Type A point, whereas others have a Type B point. Type A indicates a thread-forming pointed tip that’s designed for use with thin sheet metal measuring .015 to .050 inches thick. Type B indicates a thread-forming pointed tip that’s designed for use with thicker sheet metal measuring 0.50 to .200 inches thick.
Length
Sheet metal screws are available in different lengths. Most of them are relatively short when compared to other types of screws. However, you can still find sheet metal screws in different lengths.
You’ll need to consider the length when choosing sheet metal screws. Some of them are 0.50 inches long. Other sheet metal screws are 1 inch long.
Material
What type of material are the sheet metal screws made of? Because they are used to fasten sheet metal, sheet metal screws are typically made of a strong metal, such as stainless steel. Stainless steel is strong, durable and able to withstand moisture without rusting.
While most sheet metal screws are, in fact, made of stainless steel, some of them are plated. They feature an exterior layer of metal, such as zinc, over the stainless steel. The exterior layer or plating further protects them from rust and corrosion.
Head Type
The head type is another factor to consider when choosing sheet metal screws. All sheet metal screws have a head. It’s the uppermost part of a sheet metal screw that connects to the shank.
Oval is a common head type for sheet metal screws. Many sheet metal screws have an oval-shaped head with a recess for a slotted or Philips head bit. Other sheet metal screws, though, have a flat head.
