Tapping screws are designed to join 2 pieces of sheet metal together.
Self Tapping screws were first used in the early 1950s, when they were used in sheet metal.
Our tapping screws are also known as sheet metal screws. These have a sharp Type “A” thread with a moderately sharp gimlet point. The threads are widely spaced. Sheet metal screws are used in thin gauge metal.
The material being fastened is light gauge steel and is often soft. The holes in the material are usually pre drilled or pre punched.
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Ford Type A Sheet Metal 410 Bright Hardened Stainless Steel Tapping Screws
They work by piercing holes in thinner gauge metal.
These screws are sometimes called thread forming screws. As the screws are being installed, they form their own mating thread when joining 2 pieces of metal.
This allows for disassembly and reassembly.
If the material is too thick, then self drilling screws are needed.
While our tapping screws were not made for wood due to the thread design, in some applications they can be used in wood. However, if they are, then a small pilot hole might be necessary due to the hardness of the wood. Do not overtighten. They can strip out because some grades of wood are hard.
They can also be used in plastic in some cases.
What is 410 Stainless?
410 is commonly used in mildly corrosive environments.
They are hardened by heat treatment
410 is the only grade of stainless steel that can be hardened by heat treatment.
This is ideal for tapping screws
410 stainless with an additional 1000 Hour salt spray Coating
If higher corrosion protection is needed, then we offer 1000 hour salt spray coating.
This coating provides additional protection from the elements.
Features of 410 Type A Sheet Metal Screws
Our 410 screws are usually used in many exterior applications.
They are used in mildly corrosive environments.
They are hardened by heat treatment. Our screws are bright hardened and passivated. They have a shiny stainless-steel appearance. This allows for easy identification in the field.
Our screws are slightly magnetic which allows them to attach to magnetic hex drivers. This is ideal for one hand installation which saves time.
This is ideal for hardened tapping screws.
Features of Type B Screws
Type “B” screws have a blunt point. They are used in extrusions and drilled holes. The screw forms its own thread.
Head Types
Indented Hex Washer Head Tapping Screws Type A for fast installation in high production applications. One Hand installation with a magnetic bit allows for fast installation.
Indented Hex Washer Head Tapping Screws Type A with EPDM Bonded Sealing Washer This provides moisture protection, noise reduction, and vibration control
Slotted Indented Hex Washer Slot provides additional versatility and accessibility in tight spaces.
Phillips Flat Countersunk head with a flush non-protruding surface.
Phillips Oval Countersunk head, slightly rounded top. For decorative uses
Phillips Pan Rounded Head, Common Head style
Phillips Truss Wide head, Low head height, the head has a larger bearing surface. This reduces crushing on thin metal and reduces sheet metal pulling over the head of the screw.
Uses:
Sheet Metal / Thin Gauge Metal • Metal Roofing • Metal Siding • Metal and Plastic Panels • Awnings/ Gutters • Outside Structures • Outdoor Electrical Enclosures • Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) • Data Centers • Solar Racking • HVAC • Fences • Greenhouses • Wood (may require a pilot hole) • Plastic (may require a pilot hole)
Our Services
Same day shipment on most items from Fairfield, New Jersey
Free Freight on larger shipments. Ask about our freight policy.
Large Inventory ready to ship on the same day
Drop shipping available
Blanket orders accepted
EPDM Bonded Sealing Washers 304 (18-8) stainless are assembled onto our screws in house with our high-speed machinery for fast shipping.
Large diameter washers up # 14 X 1-1/8” OD
1000 Hour salt spray coating is available for more corrosive environments to provide long-life protection.
In-house inspection and testing
Credit Cards and ACH are accepted.
The other screw types we distribute include Self drilling screws, EPDM bonded sealing washers attached to our screws, self piercing sharp point screws, and thread cutting screws (type “F”). Custom orders are accepted. To view our fastener sizes and other technical information, click here
About Us
American Owned and Operated
63 years in business with single ownership
Superior Customer Service
Trusted Fastening Products
Businesses in industries like roofing, solar and construction all rely on Ford Fasteners’ products to get the job done. We’ve been in business since 1963, and we’ve always maintained our ability to supply quality fasteners at affordable prices. We pride ourselves on our track record for great products and top-quality customer service. From stainless steel to additional 1000 hour long life coatings on 410 we can create whatever fasteners you may need for your application.
If you would like to speak with someone at Ford Fasteners directly, contact us today! We can provide you with a quote and answer any other questions that you might have about fasteners
If our screws don’t work for your application, or if you have something else in mind, our customer service team is here to answer any questions and offer the perfect screw for you.
