Ftc Screw Size: Understanding The Standard Sizes

Screws are an essential component in the construction of robots for the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC). The set screw sizes for axle hubs, motor hubs, and set collars (standard Tetrix) are 8-32 and 10-32, while servo horn screws can vary depending on the output shaft construction. M3 Hex Cap Screws are compatible with the REV DUO System, and M4 and M3 Socket Head Screws are also mentioned in relation to FTC.

M3 Hex Cap Screws

Materials

Lengths

Thread Size

The thread size of M3 Hex Cap Screws is typically 0.50, which is considered coarse or standard. This refers to the distance between the threads and is important for ensuring compatibility with the threaded hole or nut.

Drive Type

Applications

Kits and Storage

Socket Head Cap Screws

• Standard Socket Head: The most common size of socket screw head. They are approximately as tall as the width of their shoulder, providing a good strength-to-size ratio.
• Low-Profile Standard Head: These are approximately half the height of standard cylindrical heads, allowing them to be installed in tight spaces.
• Flanged Standard Head: Similar to the standard socket head but with an integrated flange to spread the fastening force.
• Flat Head: This type has a cone-shaped head that tapers down into the screw body and sits flush against a surface.
• Button Head: This type has a round head with a hexagonal hole in the centre for fastening with a wrench or hex key.
• Flanged Button Head: Similar to the button head but with an integrated flange to spread the fastening force.
• Low-Profile Standard: These have heads that are approximately half as tall as standard socket head screws, allowing for use in tight vertical spaces.
• Flanged Standard: This type combines the strength of a standard socket head screw with the increased fastening area of a flanged screw.
• Flat Head: These have tapered heads with flat tops, similar to a wood or drywall screw, allowing them to sit flush with the fastening surface.
• Button Head: This type features a domed head, providing a smooth, low-profile finish that reduces the risk of snags.
• Flanged Button Head: This type has a dome-shaped head with an integrated flange to reduce damage to thin fastening surfaces and provide a clean, finished look.
• Vented: This type features a hole that runs from the head to the tip of the shank to allow the passage of air and fluid and prevent pressure imbalances.
• Locking: These are the same size and shape as standard socket head screws but with a thread-locking compound pre-applied to their threads to prevent unwanted rotation and loosening.

In addition to the above, socket head cap screws can also come in the following varieties:

• Inch System: These are measured and manufactured in imperial or inch units.
• Metric System: These are measured and manufactured in metric units.
• Socket Shoulder Screws: Used in applications requiring decent tensile strength, such as designing.
• Socket Low Head Cap Screws: Precision fasteners used when a lesser head height is required.
• Flange Button Socket Screws: Protective fasteners that provide structural support and a visually pleasing finish.
• Socket Flange Head Cap Screws: Can be used on moderately heavy loads but are not suitable for heavy-duty applications.

The dimensions and specifications of socket head cap screws can vary depending on the specific type and application. For example, the standard socket head cap screw dimensions for alloy and stainless steel are outlined by ASME B18.3-2003. The dimensional standards for socket head cap screws can also be outlined by standards such as ISO 4762 and BS 2470 (1936 Series G).

Set screw sizes for axle hubs

Set screws for axle hubs are a common consumable for robotics classes and clubs. The set screws for axle hubs, motor hubs, and set collars (standard Tetrix) are often replaced due to wear and tear or loss.

The set screw sizes for axle hubs are 8-32 and 10-32, with the latter being the most common. The 8-32 set screw is used for shaft collars, while the 10-32 screw is used for most hubs.

In some cases, socket head screws can be used as an alternative to set screws, provided there is sufficient clearance. The larger allen key size of the socket head screw makes it a more reliable option.

For those in Washington, Tacoma Screw is a recommended supplier for set screws.

M4 Socket Head Screws

M4 Socket Head Cap Screws are available in a variety of lengths, materials, and finishes. The M4 screw size refers to a 4 mm diameter screw thread, with a standard (coarse) thread size of 0.7 mm. These screws are typically measured in metric units and driven by an M3 or M4 hex key.

M4 Socket Head Cap Screws are commonly made from steel or stainless steel, with zinc or black oxide plating. They are available in a range of lengths, including 8 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, 16 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, and more. These screws can be purchased individually or in packs of 2, 3, or more. For example, The Home Depot offers M4-0.7 x 8 mm Plain Socket Cap Head Internal Hex Drive Cap Screws in packs of 2, while Everbilt offers M4-0.7 x 25 mm Zinc-Plated Steel Socket Cap Recessed Hex Screws in packs of 3.

Amazon also offers a wide range of M4 Socket Head Screws, including the VIGRUE 365-piece kit with lengths ranging from 8 mm to 40 mm, and the iexcell 660-piece kit with lengths from 5 mm to 30 mm. Both kits include stainless steel screws, nuts, and washers. Amazon also offers individual packs of M4 Socket Head Screws, such as the 50-piece M4 x 8 mm Alloy Steel Hex Socket Flat Head Countersunk Screws with a black oxide finish.

M4 Socket Head Cap Screws are suitable for a variety of applications, including robotics, furniture, and general hardware. When selecting M4 Socket Head Cap Screws, consider the length, material, and finish required for your specific application.

#25 Roller Chain Connecting Link

The #25 Roller Chain Connecting Link is a commonly used component in power transmission and mechanical power transmission applications. It is designed to assemble and disassemble roller chains, acting as a master link. This specific link is suitable for smaller pitch chain sizes, typically ranging from #25 to #80 in ANSI sizes, ISO sizes 03B to 16B, and 2040 to 2060 in double pitch sizes.

The #25 Roller Chain Connecting Link is available in various pack quantities, including packs of 4, 5, and 10. It is important to ensure compatibility with your specific roller chain, as some users have encountered issues with incorrect sizes.

The link is made from premium carbon steel, providing durability and strength. It is pre-greased and stretched, requiring no maintenance and ready for immediate use. The link can be easily installed and removed, ensuring the roller chain remains securely connected during operation.

When purchasing the #25 Roller Chain Connecting Link, it is recommended to consider the quality level required for your application. Economy Plus is suitable for general industrial and agricultural uses, while General Duty Plus is designed for more demanding and high-speed applications. For the toughest and most demanding applications, the Premier Series offers superior performance, maintaining 98% to 99.9% of the overall chain strength rating.

Frequently asked questions