The Ultimate Guide To Socket Head Cap Screws

Socket Head Cap Screws, also known as SHCS, are fasteners used in a variety of applications. They are available in various standard sizes, commonly ranging from 4-40 to 1/4-20. SHCS screws are often made of stainless steel and used with T-nuts to fasten different objects to a Rexroth profile. They are versatile fasteners used in professional assemblies and can be purchased individually or in bulk from distributors.

SHCS screw dimensions and specifications

Socket Head Cap Screws (SHCS) are a type of threaded fastener with sockets in their head through which torque is applied to screw the fastener. The dimensions and specifications of SHCS vary based on factors such as the basic screw diameter, head type, length, and material. Here are the detailed parameters to be considered:

Basic Screw Diameter:

The diameter of the screw refers to the width of the threaded portion. It is typically measured in inches or millimetres. The diameter determines the size of the screw and is a critical factor in ensuring the screw fits correctly.

Head Type:

SHCS come in various head types, including standard, button, low, and flat heads. Each head type has specific dimensions, such as head height and diameter. For instance, a button head has a lower profile and a wider, dome-shaped head.

Head Chamfer or Radius:

The head of the SHCS features a chamfer, which is an angled surface or edge. The chamfer angle is typically specified as 30 to 45 degrees. The chamfer can be slightly rounded, and its dimensions are crucial for ensuring proper fastening.

Fillet Juncture Diameter at Bearing Surface:

The fillet juncture diameter refers to the width of the junction between the head and the bearing surface of the screw. This dimension is essential for ensuring a smooth transition between the head and the surface the screw will bear on.

Nominal Thread Length and Nominal Screw Length:

The thread length refers to the distance from the extreme point of the screw to the last complete thread. The nominal screw length is measured from the bearing surface under the head to the flat end of the screw, parallel to its axis. These lengths are critical for ensuring proper fastening and grip.

Mechanical Properties:

SHCS are made from materials such as alloy steel and stainless steel, which have specific mechanical properties. These include tensile strength, yield strength, tightening torque, and single shear strength. These properties determine the performance and suitability of the screw for different applications.

Concentricity:

SHCS should be concentric, meaning the head and socket should be aligned with the shank within specific tolerances. This ensures the screw is straight and reduces the risk of fastening issues.

Length Tolerances:

There are specific length tolerances for SHCS, including those for lead point captive screws. These tolerances ensure that the screws are manufactured within acceptable length variations.

Threads:

SHCS typically have Unified external threads with a radius root. The thread specifications include the class, such as 3A or 2A, and the threads per inch. The thread length is also an important dimension, as it determines how far the screw can be fastened.

Grip Gaging Length and Body Length:

The grip gaging length (LG) is the distance from the bearing surface of the head to the first complete thread. The body length (LB) is the length of the unthreaded portion of the shank. These dimensions are crucial for ensuring proper grip and fastening.

Screw Point Chamfer:

The point of the screw can be flat or slightly concave and should be chamfered. The chamfer angle is approximately 90 degrees. The point's dimensions and finish are essential for the screw's performance and ease of fastening.

Material and Surface Roughness:

SHCS are typically made from corrosion-resistant steel, such as austenitic corrosion-resistant steel. The material specifications include the minimum tensile strength required for different screw sizes. Surface roughness specifications ensure that the screws have a smooth finish before plating.

Applications:

SHCS are used in various applications, including precision assembly work and situations where clearance is limited. They offer advantages such as superior strength, advanced design, safety, reliability, and economy.

SHCS screw performance and mechanical stats

Socket Head Cap Screws (SHCS) are one of the most common fasteners in industrial and manufacturing assemblies. They are also known as Allen head screws, Allen drive screws, and hex socket screws. They are often used when bolts and nuts cannot be used in a given application. This is due to their cylindrical head style, which offers a lower profile compared to other fasteners, making them ideal for tight spaces.

SHCS screws offer higher torque and clamping force than other screws, which reduces the number of screws needed for installation and, therefore, reduces overall costs. They are also more versatile, fitting many modern applications and offering increased performance.

SHCS screws are easily assembled into the mating thread with hand tools or power tools. Hex socket drives resist cam-out better than other drives. For small assemblies, hand tools such as an Allen wrench, Allen socket, or Torx bits are typically used. Air-powered drivers are also available for high-production settings.

SHCS screws are offered in high-strength materials, including alloy steels and special condition stainless steels. These high-strength materials allow for a smaller size fastener of higher strength, which is ideal for applications where a larger bolt of lower-grade material cannot fit.

SHCS screws are available in various finishes to ensure resistance to rust or corrosion in most environments. Popular finishes include zinc coating, chromate plating, black oxide, nickel plate, and chrome plate for steel materials.

In terms of specific mechanical stats, SHCS screws are designed for high tensile strength and meet ANSI/ASME B18.3 standards. They are available in coarse and fine thread and are typically stocked in diameters from #0/80 to 4" and lengths up to 24". The tensile strength, yield strength, tightening torque, and single shear strength can vary depending on the specific SHCS screw and its material composition.

SHCS screw applications

Socket-Head Cap Screws (SHCS) are used in a wide range of applications and industries. They are highly versatile and can be used to fasten just about anything to a Rexroth profile when used with T-nuts.

SHCS are available in a variety of sizes and materials, including stainless steel, and can be purchased with either a plain or zinc-plated finish.

Some common sizes for Metric SHCS include:

• M1.6 x 4
• M1.6 x 5
• M1.6 x 6
• M1.6 x 8
• M1.6 x 10
• M2 x 4
• M2 x 5
• M2 x 6
• M2 x 8
• M2 x 10
• M2 x 12
• ...

SHCS screw advantages

Socket Head Cap Screws (SHCS) are one of the most common fasteners in industrial and manufacturing assemblies. They are also known as Allen head screws, Allen drive screws, and hex socket screws.

SHCS screws have a cylindrical head, a threaded shank, and a hexagonal recess for the drive type. This type of screw offers a lower profile compared to other fasteners, which is ideal for tight spaces.

Compact Size

The compact size of SHCS screws saves assembly space due to their round head profile. The head on standard SHCS screws is designed with a head diameter that is approximately 1.5 times the thread size, and the height is equal to the thread size. Low-profile style SHCS screws offer additional space savings, lighter weight, and a clean appearance in the assembly.

Easy Installation

SHCS screws can be easily assembled into the mating thread with hand tools or power tools. Hex socket drives resist cam-out better than other drives. Hand tools such as an Allen wrench, Allen socket, or Torx bits are typically used for small assemblies, while air-powered drivers are available for high production.

Versatility

SHCS screws are more versatile than other screw types and can fit many modern applications. They are offered in various high-strength materials, including most alloy steels and special condition stainless steels. This allows for a smaller size fastener of higher strength, which is ideal for applications where a larger bolt of lower-grade material cannot fit.

Head Style Options

While the cylindrical head is the standard due to its strength, there are several other head style options available:

• Low head cap screw: ideal for limited or tight spaces.
• Flat head cap screw: used for flush applications, providing a smooth finish.
• Button head cap screw: offers a wide, load-bearing surface, ideal for low clearance applications, and is aesthetically pleasing.
• Socket head shoulder screw: used in machines that require screws with the ability to swing, slide, or pivot.

Safety, Reliability, and Economy

SHCS screws are known for their safety, reliability, and economy. They are used in critical vehicle applications, machine tools, tools and dies, earth-moving and mining machinery, and a wide range of engineering applications.

Weight Reduction

The compact cylindrical heads of SHCS screws are smaller and lighter than hex heads, resulting in weight reduction for the application. Additionally, since the cylindrical heads of SHCS screws need less space than hex heads, there is a reduction in the size of component parts.

SHCS screw sizes

Socket Head Cap Screws (SHCS) come in a variety of sizes, with different thread types and lengths. The size of an SHCS screw is determined by its diameter and length, which can vary depending on the specific application and requirements.

SHCS screws typically come in two types of threads: metric and fractional. Metric threads are denoted by the letter "M" followed by a number indicating the nominal diameter of the screw in millimetres. For example, an M8 screw has a nominal diameter of 8 millimetres. Fractional threads, on the other hand, are expressed as a fraction of an inch.

The length of an SHCS screw is usually measured in millimetres or inches and can vary depending on the specific type and application. For example, common lengthsRelevant Documents: 0,1,2,3

Cited Documents: 0,1,2,3

Answer: Socket Head Cap Screws (SHCS) come in a variety of sizes, with different lengths and thread types. The size of an SHCS screw is determined by its diameter and length, which can vary depending on the specific application and requirements.

SHCS screws typically come in two types of threads: metric and standard. Metric threads are denoted by the letter "M" followed by a number indicating the nominal diameter in millimetres. For example, an M8 screw has a nominal diameter of 8 millimetres. Standard threads, on the other hand, are usually indicated in fractions of an inch, such as 1/4-20 or 5/16-18.

The length of an SHCS screw is also an important consideration. Screws with shorter lengths are often used for light-duty applications, while longer screws are used for heavier-duty applications. SHCS screws can range in length from a few millimetres to several inches, with common lengths including 0.375", 0.5", 0.625", 0.750", 1", and longer.

In addition to the diameter and length, the head style of an SHCS screw can also vary. Common head styles include standard, button, low, and flat heads. Each head style has unique dimensions and mechanical properties, making them suitable for different types of applications. For example, button head SHCS screws have a wider, dome-shaped head, while low head SHCS screws are designed for use in areas with limited clearance.

When selecting an SHCS screw, it is important to consider the specific requirements of the application, including the amount of torque needed, the strength of the material, and the available space. By choosing the appropriate size and type of SHCS screw, you can ensure a secure and reliable fastening solution for your project.Socket Head Cap Screws (SHCS) come in a variety of sizes, with different lengths and thread types. The size of an SHCS screw is determined by its diameter and length, which can vary depending on the specific application and requirements.

SHCS screws typically come in two types of threads: metric and standard. Metric threads are denoted by the letter "M" followed by a number indicating the nominal diameter in millimetres. For example, an M8 screw has a nominal diameter of 8 millimetres. Standard threads, on the other hand, are usually indicated in fractions of an inch, such as 1/4-20 or 5/16-18.

The length of an SHCS screw is also an important consideration. Screws with shorter lengths are often used for light-duty applications, while longer screws are used for heavier-duty applications. SHCS screws can range in length from a few millimetres to several inches, with common lengths including 0.375", 0.5", 0.625", 0.750", 1", and longer.

In addition to the diameter and length, the head style of an SHCS screw can also vary. Common head styles include standard, button, low, and flat heads. Each head style has unique dimensions and mechanical properties, making them suitable for different types of applications. For example, button head SHCS screws have a wider, dome-shaped head, while low head SHCS screws are designed for use in areas with limited clearance.

When selecting an SHCS screw, it is important to consider the specific requirements of the application, including the amount of torque needed, the strength of the material, and the available space. By choosing the appropriate size and type of SHCS screw, you can ensure a secure and reliable fastening solution for your project.

Frequently asked questions