How To Choose Tek Screws?
Screws that are self-drilling – generally referred to as Tek screws – are some of the most widely used metal fasteners in the building and construction industry.
The bladed flutes that extend the length of the screw from the threaded portion of the body all the way to the tip of the drill bit are called “tech screws,” or self-drilling screws. Because the drilling and tapping functions are combined into a single screw, there is no need to pre-drill pilot holes or tap threads before using the screw.
Drilling, tapping, and fastening are all performed in a single operation, saving both time and money. A wide range of surface treatments are available for the best Tek screws in order to help them withstand the elements and protect the substrates to which they are attached.
Tek screws are widely used in a variety of general sheet metal applications such as roofing, cladding, and HVAC, among others.
It is possible to use larger Tek screws (up to No.3 Tek) to penetrate 12–20-gauge galvanised steel and 3/8″ to’ 2″ (10-12.5 mm) structural steel in a wide range of civil and naval engineering applications, such as shipbuilding.
What is the best method for using Tek Screws?
Tek screws may be effectively fastened to a variety of metal materials, but there are some tips and advice that can help you get the most out of them and increase their lifespan.
- Select the proper size Tek screw for the material you are working with from the available options. Check to see that the Tek screw drill point capacity exceeds the thickness of the material to be drilled before starting the drilling process. Failure to do so may result in drilling tips that are burnt out or break during the process.
- The use of Tek screws on light sheet metal is best accomplished using power drills that have adjustable clutch settings rather than with impact drills. Dimpling and oil canning are two types of deformations that can be caused by the hammering motion created by impact drills on lightweight metal sheets.
- When fastening the Tek screw and washer to sheet metal, be careful not to overtighten them. The washers should be compressed just enough to fill any irregularities in the surface, but not too much so that the seal is compromised. When the washers are over-compressed, one of two things can happen. The sheet panel may distort as a result of excessive tightening, and the exposed section will be subjected to the sun and other factors, which will accelerate the weathering process and lower the panel’s life expectancy.
- In order to properly connect Tek screws to hardened galvanized or structural steel, set the clutch speed of your (cordless) power drill to approximately 1500 rpm and apply constant, consistent pressure throughout the procedure. Drilling at a speed of 2300 rpm or higher can result in early drill point wear or burnout, which can result in the drill point losing its function.
Don’t cut corners when it comes to the quality and craftsmanship of your construction projects. Your structure is only as strong as the weakest of its fasteners. Choose only the highest-quality self-drilling screws from a dependable Tek screw manufacturer – choose BDN Fasteners today and every day of the year.
