Thread Cutting Screws

Thread Cutting Screws

Thread-cutting screws cut mating threads as they drive into an unthreaded hole. The sharp cutting tip removes material so the fastener seats cleanly and holds with a true machine screw thread. They’re a reliable choice for heavier sections like heavy-gauge sheet metal, and they can also work well in certain soft materials.

Filter For

or

Follow A Product Path Below

Thread-Cutting Screw Types: Type F, Type 1, Type 23 & Type 25

Each point style is built for a certain thickness and chip clearance. Type F uses a standard machine screw thread with a blunt tapered point and multiple cutting edges, making it a strong choice for heavy gauge sheet metal and tougher castings. Type 1 is similar but uses a single flute, so it’s often chosen for general-purpose cutting when you want a cleaner start and lower driving torque. Type 23 swaps the slit for a larger triangular cutout, giving more room for chips and smoother cutting in metals and some molded parts. Type 25, sometimes called a BT point, is used when you need aggressive cutting in harder metals, including steel and cast iron. Match the type to the material and thickness for reliable threads on consistently.

Benefits of Using Thread-Cutting Screws in Unthreaded Materials

Thread-cutting screws simplify fastening in parts that don’t have pre-cut internal threads. Instead of drilling, tapping, and cleaning up, the screw cuts mating threads during installation, which can reduce steps in production. That’s one reason they’re used in industrial assemblies where consistency matters and downtime costs money. Because they remove material rather than displacing it, they can be a better fit in brittle materials like cast iron or die cast components, where thread-forming can crack the part. They’re also useful when you need stronger engagement than typical tapping screws provide in certain thicknesses. Selection still matters: the head style of thread-cutting screws, point type, and pilot hole sizing all affect performance, torque, and final clamp load. When matched correctly, you get repeatable threads, easier service, and less risk of damaged parts during installation.

Bulk Thread-Cutting Screws for Industrial Use

For manufacturing and maintenance teams, stocking the right fasteners saves time and prevents line stoppages. Fastener SuperStore offers industrial thread cutting screws in common diameters, lengths, and head styles so you can standardize across builds. In production environments, ordering in bulk helps keep specs consistent, especially when multiple stations rely on the same fastener and driver setup. Head configuration matters for tooling and appearance, whether you need a low-profile flat undercut option for tight clearances or a different head design for higher clamp load. Thread cutting screws are also helpful when you are fastening into mixed materials or replacing worn threads in existing components. If your application changes seasonally or by product line, bulk ordering makes it easier to stay stocked without last minute substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are thread-cutting screws?

Thread-cutting screws are fasteners designed to cut internal threads into an unthreaded hole as they’re driven. A cutting edge at the tip removes material to form a matching thread profile. They’re commonly used when you want a reliable, repeatable threaded connection without separate tapping.

What materials can thread-cutting screws be used in?

They’re used in a range of metals and molded materials, including heavy gauge sheet metal, cast iron, and certain die cast parts. They can also work in some soft materials when you want a cleaner, more controlled thread than a standard screw creates. Always match type to substrate.

How are thread-cutting screws different from thread-forming screws?

Thread-cutting screws remove material to create threads, while thread-forming screws displace material to form threads without chips. Cutting is often preferred for brittle substrates and some thicker sections. Forming can be faster in ductile materials, but it can increase stress in the part.

Are thread-cutting screws reusable?

They can be reused in many applications, especially when the threads are cut cleanly, and the base material holds up well. Reuse depends on wear, torque, and how often the joint is cycled. For critical assemblies, it’s common to inspect and replace as needed.

When should I choose a thread-cutting screw over a self-tapping screw?

Choose thread-cutting when you need a cleaner internal thread profile, better control in thicker metals, or improved performance in brittle materials. Self-tapping can be fine for lighter-duty work, but thread-cutting is often chosen for more repeatable results in production settings.