Socket head cap screws has a cylindrical head and an internal hexagonal drive. Socket head cap screws is used in situations where there is a need to fasten component within a tight space where an external wrench cant reach teh component. Socket head cap screws are often used in CNC machine in the form of fixture.
When the socket head cap screw is place within a counterbore, the large bearing area of the socket head cap screw help to evenly distribute the load placed upon the fixture, preventing the fixture from deforming under that load. The strength of the socket head cap screw is dependent upon the material of which the screw is made. Many socket head cap screws is made of high-tensile alloy steel to meet the Grade 8 (imperial) or Class 12.9 (metric) strength standard.
How to Use Socket Head Cap Screws
If the screw need to be resistant to corrosion, the screw can be made of stainless steel. However, stainless steel socket head cap screws will gall when installed if a person dont use an anti-seize lubricant. The proper size of a hex key must be used to tighten the socket head cap screw.
If a user uses a hex key that is too small, the corner of the internal hexagonal drive will be rounded. As a result, the screw will be difficult to remove and may have to be drilled out of the component. Additionally, the installer must apply the proper amount of torque when installing the socket head cap screw.
If too many torque is applied to the screw, the head may shear off the screw. If too little torque are applied, the screw may vibrate into a loose state. Counterbores are used when installing socket head cap screws flush against a surface.
First, a clearance hole is drilled into the component. Second, a counterbore of the proper depth is made so that the head of the socket head cap screw will fit within the counterbore with a slip fit. The depth of the counterbore must match the height of the head of the socket head cap screw.
If the depth of the counterbore is incorrect, the clamp load that the socket head cap screw provides will be more less than the load that would be provided if the screw were properly installed. Many varieties of socket head cap screws exist to fulfill different need. Standard socket head cap screws provide the maximum strength for fixture.
Low-head socket head cap screws are used where there is a lack of space for the head of the socket head cap screw. Button head socket head cap screws have a smooth appearance when installed into a component. Countersunk socket head cap screws allow the head of the screw to be flush with the surface of the installed component.
Other varieties include socket head cap screws with shoulders that allow for the attachment of pivoting component, and set screws that lock component without the need for the head of the screw. Finally, there are some error that should of been avoided when using socket head cap screws. Using a worn hex key will strip the internal hexagonal drive of the socket head cap screw.
Ensuring that the threads of the screw and the component match will prevent cross-threading of the screw into the component. Finally, if the screw will be exposed to vibration, using thread locker will prevent the screw from loosening over time.
