One of the more frequently asked questions of our sales organization is "What is the difference between a Tek screw and a self-tapping"? It seems like such a silly question, but in the industrial insulation world it actually does matter. Confusion does exist on such a simple question. These screws are used in numerous mechanical insulation projects. Both types of screws are used for securing metal jacketing, aluminum and stainless elbows, along with T-Covers.
What are Tek screws?
Tek screws are self tapping fasteners that have a unique carving at the end of the tip called a drill bit. This type of screw is popular in a number of insulation projects since it is in essence a self threading and drilling product. They can also be used for stainless steel applications.
Applications: Securing metal jacket, aluminum and stainless steel elbows and T-covers.
Alloys: 410 Stainless Steel and Zinc
Common Sizes: #8 x 1/2”, #8 x 3/4” with other sizes available on the market.
Types of Head: Slotted hex washer head. There are additional types of heads available on the market.
advantages:
- Excellent for combining two or more pieces of material (Metal, wood, etc.).
- Drilling and fastening done in one motion. Tip enables stress free drilling in the hardest metals.
- Eliminates the need to pre-drill holes.
- Drilling and fastening done in one motion. Tip enables stress free drilling in the hardest metals.
- Eliminates the need to pre-drill holes.
What are self-tapping screws
Self-tapping screws are fasteners that are designed to cut their own threads as they are screwed into
wood, plastic or soft metal. In industrial application the term “tapping” is in reference to these screws cutting their own threads. Pre-drilling is required for those applications that involves heavy gauge metal or hard plastic.
wood, plastic or soft metal. In industrial application the term “tapping” is in reference to these screws cutting their own threads. Pre-drilling is required for those applications that involves heavy gauge metal or hard plastic.
Applications: Securing aluminum jacketing, elbows and T-covers. Not suitable for Stainless Steel applications without a pilot hole.
Alloys: 410 Stainless Steel and Zinc
Common Sizes: #8 x 1/2”, #8 x 3/4” with other sizes available on the market.
Types of Head: Slotted hex washer head. There are additional types of heads available on the market.
advantages:
- Can be applied using any powered cordless drill.- No pilot hole necessary if drilling into wood, plastic or light guage metals.
