What is the difference between self tapping screws and regular screws

There are significant differences between self tapping screws and ordinary screws in multiple aspects. The following is a detailed comparison between the two:

1、 Definition and Characteristics

Self tapping screws:

It is a special type of threaded fastener with self drilling capability.

During the screwing process, the inherent taper of the screw can directly enter the pre drilled thread (or self tap and form internal threads in the connected part) without the need for pre drilling.

The head is mostly hexagonal and can be directly used in conjunction with hexagonal nuts or other hexagonal fasteners.

The thread shape is generally triangular or right angled trapezoidal, which can be quickly fastened on various materials.

Ordinary screws:

It is a common fastener, usually composed of a head and a screw.

There are various head shapes, such as pan head, countersunk head, semi-circular head, hexagonal head, etc., to adapt to different installation scenarios and tool requirements.

The screw has threads that can be directly screwed into the threaded holes of the parts without the need for nuts, but pre drilling and tapping are usually required before installation.

2、 Materials and Applications

Self tapping screws:

The materials usually include stainless steel, carbon steel, copper, aluminum alloy, etc., which have high strength and corrosion resistance.

Widely used in furniture, construction, electronics, automotive and other fields, such as connecting wooden boards, metal brackets, fixing walls, floors, connecting circuit boards, plastic shells, as well as car bodies, doors, etc.

Ordinary screws:

The materials are equally diverse, but the specific choice depends on the application scenario and cost requirements.

Commonly used for connecting hard metal materials such as steel, stainless steel, etc., it is also suitable for connecting wooden components, fixing circuit boards, casings, and fastening key components such as engines and chassis.

3、 Installation and fixing effect

Self tapping screws:

The installation process is relatively simple, without the need for pre drilling or tapping. Simply screw the screws directly into the material.

Usually, electric screwdrivers or pneumatic screwdrivers are used for installation, which can significantly improve installation efficiency.

Due to its unique thread design and head shape, it is more suitable for connecting non-metallic or softer metal materials such as wood, plastic, aluminum alloys, etc.

Ordinary screws:

The installation process is relatively complex, requiring pre drilling and tapping of holes in the material before the screws can be screwed in.

Although tools such as screwdrivers can also be used for installation, their installation efficiency is lower compared to self tapping screws.

More suitable for connecting harder metal materials such as steel, stainless steel, etc.

4、 Cost and Maintenance

Self tapping screws:

Usually priced higher than regular screws, but can significantly improve installation efficiency.

Due to its strong fastening force and resistance to loosening, it can significantly reduce the risk of connection failure.

Ordinary screws:

The price is more affordable and suitable for occasions with certain cost requirements.

Although its fastening force is also relatively high, compared to self tapping screws, its installation process is more complex and may require additional preprocessing steps (such as drilling and tapping) in certain application scenarios.

In summary, there are significant differences between self tapping screws and ordinary screws in terms of definition, characteristics, materials and applications, installation and fixing effects, as well as cost and maintenance. When making a selection, factors such as specific application scenarios, material types, working environments, and cost budgets should be comprehensively considered.