Metric screw follow specific standards. Metric screws are reliable because the screw adhere to specific measurements. To use metric screws correctly, a person must understand the different size of the diameter, pitch of the screw, and the size of the head of the screw.
Metric screws comes in different category based off the type of thread that is used. Thread type can include both coarse thread as well as fine thread. Coarse threads have wider spaces between the peaks of the threads, and these types of threads are useful in situations where it is necessary for the screw to be installed quick.
How to Use Metric Screws
Coarse threads also hold well in softer materials. Fine threads have more thread within a specific distance along the screw. Fine threads are used for better grip on hard metal.
Additionally, fine threads are also useful in situations where small adjustments has to be made to a machine or piece of hardware. A person has to choose between coarse and fine thread based on the type of material that is being used. Another factor to consider for metric screws is the strength grade of the screw.
The strength grades of the screw will determine the amount of load that can be placed upon the screw. Low-grade metric screws is used for light hardware applications. High-grade metric screws are used for structural frame or engine component.
It is important that the strength grades of the metric screw and metric nut are compatible with one another. If the strength grade of the metric screw is higher than that of the nut, then the nut will fail with the screw. The type of head of the metric screw also play a role in the types of applications for which that screw can be used.
Metric screws with hex cap head allow for a person to tighten the screw with a wrench. Socket head metric screws are useful in areas where there is limited space. Countersunk heads are used when the screw is to sit flush with the surface of the object to which it is attach.
When using metric screws, a person must use the correct size for the tap drill. The correct size for the tap drill can be determined by taking the nominal size of the screw’s diameter and subtracting the pitch. Using the correct size for the tap drill will ensure that the threads of the screw are clean and dont become stuck during operation of the device.
Metric screws require the use of torque when installing the screw. If a person does not use the correct amount of torque when installing the screw, then the screw may stretch beyond its limits and no longer perform its function of fastening the object together properly. Using lubricant when installing metric screws will reduce the amount of force that is required to properly tighten the screw to the necessary specification.
A person must avoid using imperial fastener in place of metric screws. Metric and imperial sized screws use different measurement. If a person forces an imperial screw into a metric hole, the screw will damage the threads.
A person should use a pitch gauge to ensure that the pitch of the screw match that of the screw hole. Additionally, a person should ensure that there is enough thread engagement between the screw and the object to which it is screwed. For steel material, there should be at least one diameter of thread engaged.
For softer metals, there should be at least two diameters of threads engaged. Following these step will ensure that the person use metric screws correctly and the screw remains secure in the object to which it is attached.
