Stainless Steel Socket Head Self Tapping Screws / Allen Cap Sheet Metal Screws (304 / 316) – Manufacturer Direct

Premium Stainless Steel Socket Head Self Tapping Screws: Precision Meets Performance

At Handan Bolt, we engineer fasteners that elevate the quality of your finished product. Our Stainless Steel Socket Head Self Tapping Screws (also known as Allen Drive Sheet Metal Screws or Cylindrical Head Tapping Screws) combine the sleek, industrial look of a standard socket cap bolt with the versatility of a self-tapping thread. Manufactured in our Yongnian facility using high-grade 304 and 316 stainless steel, these screws are the preferred choice for high-end electronics, automotive interiors, and marine applications.

What makes this screw unique?

This is a hybrid fastener that brings together the best features of two different worlds:

• The Head (Socket Cap / Cheese Head): Modeled after the DIN 912 standard, the cylindrical head features a deep Hex Socket (Allen) drive. Unlike Phillips or Slotted drives which can “cam-out” (slip) under high torque, the hex drive allows you to tighten the screw firmly without damaging the head.
• The Thread (Self-Tapping): It features a sharp, hardened Self-tapping thread (Read more on Wikipedia) designed to cut its own mating threads into plastics, wood, or thin sheet metal.

Material Specifications: Ultimate Corrosion Resistance

Because these screws are often used in visible areas or harsh environments, material quality is paramount. We supply:

1. Stainless Steel 304 (A2)

The industry standard for general corrosion resistance.

• Application: Ideal for electronic enclosures, 3D printer assembly, furniture, and indoor appliances.
• Appearance: Bright, silver finish that looks clean and modern.

2. Stainless Steel 316 (A4)

The premium “Marine Grade” option.

• Application: Essential for boats, outdoor lighting, and chemical equipment. It contains Molybdenum to resist salt water and chlorine corrosion.
• Longevity: Will remain rust-free for decades, even in coastal environments.

Why Choose Allen Drive (Hex Socket) Over Phillips?

In modern manufacturing, the switch to Socket Head Self Tappers is driven by:

1. Higher Torque Transmission: You can apply more force to cut threads into tough materials (like aluminum sheets) without the driver slipping.
2. Aesthetics: The cylindrical “Cheese Head” looks more technical and high-tech than a standard pan head screw. It sits proud on the surface, adding a robust industrial feel to the device.
3. Security: While not a true security screw, standard Allen keys are less common in a household drawer than Phillips screwdrivers, offering a basic level of tamper resistance.

Installation Tips

To ensure a perfect fit:

• Pilot Hole: Always drill a pilot hole appropriate for the material hardness. For harder metals, a slightly larger pilot hole is needed to prevent the screw from snapping.
• Tools: Use a high-quality Hex Key (Allen Wrench) or a hex bit driver.

Common Applications

These specialized screws are found in:

• Automotive Modification: Securing plastic trim panels, bumpers, and speaker grilles.
• Electronics: Fastening server rack components and computer cases.
• Hobby & RC: Used extensively in remote control cars and drones for their light weight and strength.
• Signage: Mounting acrylic or metal letters where the screw head is visible.

Why Source from Handan Bolt?

Precision Heading: Our cold-heading process ensures the hex socket is perfectly centered and deep, preventing rounded keys.
Wide Size Range: We stock from tiny M2 micro-screws up to heavy M8 sizes.
Custom Packaging: We can provide labeled polybags or blister packs for retail distribution.

Get a Direct Factory Quote

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Need a price list for A2 or A4 socket tapping screws?

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