Flat Head Screw Driver: 1Mm Hollow Ground Precision

A hollow-ground flat-head screwdriver is a type of screwdriver that is used to turn screws with a single horizontal indentation (the slot) in the fastener head. This form was the first type of screw drive to be developed and was, for centuries, the simplest and cheapest to make. The slotted screw is still commonly found in existing products and installations, as well as in simple carpentry work and in applications where minimal torque is needed. A hollow-ground screwdriver is less likely to cam out, so more torque can be applied without damaging the screw head. Flat-blade jeweler's screwdrivers and the tips found in 1⁄4-inch or 6.4-millimeter drive sets are generally hollow-ground.

Screwdriver sets

When choosing a screwdriver set, it is important to consider the quality of the tools, the range of sizes and types included, and the storage options. Some sets come with a sturdy toolbox or case, while others may have a simple plastic container or no storage option at all. It is also worth considering whether you require any additional features, such as magnetized tips or insulated handles for working with electrical components.

• Craftsman 8-piece Bi-Material Screwdriver Set: This set includes four Phillips-head and four flat-head screwdrivers, with colour-coded handles for easy identification.
• Milwaukee 10-piece Combination Screwdriver Set: A comprehensive set including Phillips-head, flat-head, and square-head screwdrivers, as well as a tri-lobe handle for a secure grip.
• Klein Tools 7-piece Screwdriver Set: Made in the USA, this set features insulated handles and a range of Phillips-head and flat-head screwdrivers with non-slip cushion grips and a tip identifier.
• Amartisan 10-piece Magnetic Screwdriver Set: This set includes five Phillips-head and five slotted-head screwdrivers with professional cushion grips and magnetic tips for easy screw retention.
• Tekton High-Torque Screwdriver Sets: Tekton offers a range of high-torque screwdriver sets in various piece counts, from 2 to 58, with black oxide blades and optional storage racks or drawers.
• SUNHZMCKP 66-piece Magnetic Screwdriver Set: A large set including Phillips-head, slotted, Torx, and precision screwdrivers, with replaceable S2-alloy tool steel bits and a sturdy toolbox for storage.

Screwdriver bits

There are two main types of screwdriver bits: standard bits and security bits. Standard bits are commonly used for screws found in furniture, appliances, and other everyday items. These include flat-head bits, Phillips-head bits, and Robertson bits, among others. Security bits, on the other hand, are designed to prevent tampering and unauthorised access. Examples include Torx bits, Spanner bits, and Tri-wing bits.

When choosing screwdriver bits, it is important to consider the type of screw you will be working with. The size and shape of the bit must match the screw head for a secure fit. Additionally, the quality and durability of the bits are important factors. High-quality bits made from hardened steel will provide better performance and last longer.

In some cases, it may be necessary to modify or create custom screwdriver bits. This can be done by grinding down standard bits or using flat stock metal to fabricate a bit that fits the specific screw. This is often required for specialised applications, such as in the jewellery or watchmaking industry, where small and precise tools are needed.

Finally, screwdriver bits can be purchased individually or as part of a set. Sets typically offer a range of bit sizes and types, providing versatility for various projects. When purchasing bits, it is advisable to consider the quality, durability, and range of sizes offered to ensure they meet your specific needs.

Screwdriver handles

Handles can also be made of aluminium, cast around the blade. Some medical instrument makers use linenized phenolic circuit board material for their handles. This material is machinable and autoclave resistant. Other handle materials include Delrin, an easily machinable material with high impact resistance, and Cellulose Acetate Butyrate (CAB), which also has high impact resistance, takes a great polish, and can be easily machined.

The handle of a screwdriver is an important consideration when selecting the right tool for the job. A comfortable, non-slip grip is essential for applying torque and preventing blisters or hand fatigue. The handle should also be shaped to prevent the screwdriver from rolling off flat surfaces, which could be a safety hazard and may lead to a lost tool.

The size of the handle is also a factor. A larger handle can provide more torque but may not fit in tight spaces. Smaller handles are better for precision work and accessing screws in confined areas.

Screwdriver heads

To address this issue, hollow-ground screwdrivers were introduced. A hollow-ground screwdriver has a concave shape ground into the tip, which allows for greater torque to be applied without damaging the screw head. This makes it ideal for applications where precision and control are crucial, such as watchmaking and jewellery.

The size of a screwdriver head is typically indicated by a number, such as "Phillips #00". The tip thickness and width are also important considerations when selecting the appropriate screwdriver for a specific screw. For example, a 1mm hollow-ground flat-head screwdriver would be suitable for small, delicate screws found in watches or jewellery.

When choosing a screwdriver, it is essential to consider the type of screw head and the amount of torque required for the task. Using the wrong type of screwdriver can lead to damage to the screw head or the surrounding area. Additionally, some screws are designed to be tamper-resistant, requiring specialised tools for installation and removal.

In some cases, it may be necessary to modify or fabricate a custom screwdriver to fit specific screw heads. This can be achieved by grinding down the tip of an existing screwdriver or using flat stock to create a custom tool. However, it is always recommended to use the correct tool for the job to avoid damage and ensure the best results.

Screwdriver sizes

Phillips drive bits are designated by the letters "PH", followed by a size code of 0000, 000, 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 (in order of increasing size). The numerical bit size codes do not necessarily correspond to nominal screw size numbers.

The slotted screw is the oldest traditional form of screwdriver bit configuration and the most inconvenient to use. It is impossible to use with power drivers. Slotted screwdrivers are also known as common blade, flat-blade, slot-head, flat-tip, or flat-head/flathead screwdrivers. The slotted screw was the first type of screw drive to be developed and was the simplest and cheapest to make for centuries.

Flat-blade jeweler's screwdrivers and the tips found in 1⁄4-inch or 6.4-millimeter drive sets are generally hollow-ground. A hollow-ground screwdriver is less likely to cam out, so more torque can be applied without damaging the screw head.

The Pozidriv drive style was originally formed to address the most significant issue Phillips heads are prone to: cam-out. Cam-out is when a drive recess slips out due to torque exceeding a certain limit. The Pozidriv drive style improves upon two factors:

• Increased torque without cam-out
• Greater surface contact engagement between the drive and the recess in the fastener head, making it harder to slip when installed correctly

Pozidriv screwdrivers are designated using the letters "PZ" followed by a size code of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 (in order of increasing size). The numbers do not correspond to nominal screw size numbers.

The Robertson or Square Recess is a popular configuration in Canada. It is popular because it has a 'stick fit' into the screw head, allowing the Robertson or Square Recess screw to be held in place on the tip of the driver bit. Friction holds it in place while starting to screw into materials.

The Torx screw drive, often referred to by the brand name Star Drive, uses a star-shaped recess in the fastener with six rounded points. Torx screwdrivers are very popular in the automotive and electronics industries because of their resistance to cam-out and extended bit life, as well as reduced operator fatigue. A tamper-resistant Security Torx head has a small pin inside the recess.

Other types of screwdrivers include:

• Ratcheting: The head spins normally in one direction and stays put as you turn your hand back the other way.
• Precision: Smaller manual screwdrivers used for electronics and jewelry. Sets typically come with Phillips, flat, and sometimes Torx heads.
• Magnetic: Screwdrivers that attach to screws, holding them in place as you fasten them for one-handed operation.
• Electric: Smaller than drills and meant to put screws into pre-drilled holes. They come in corded and cordless varieties.
• Multi-Bit: Screwdrivers with interchangeable bits in multiple sizes or types. Multi-bit screwdrivers are usually magnetic, too.

Frequently asked questions