Grub screws, also called set screws or socket set screws, are headless fastener types that are widely used to secure an object within or against another object. The primary function of a grub screw is to sucre various components, including gears, shafts, pulleys, knobs, and handles on a shaft or within a hole. Grub screws feature threaded inserts across their whole length with a slightly concave or flat end for recessing into the intended object(s). Moreover, socket set screws carry a hexagonal socket at their ends and are easy to tighten or loosen using an Allen key or wrench. These screws easily thread into the corresponding threaded holes or objects, providing a robust grip and preventing movement. Additionally, due to the unique designs and features of grub screws, they are widely used in a variety of applications where common screws and bolts do not integrate or a sleek appearance is paramount.
Materials and Sizes of Grub Screws
Grub screws are typically made from various materials, including steel, stainless steel, brass, nylon, and other alloys. Steel grub screws and brass grub screws are popular due to their resistance properties against harsh environmental conditions. The choice of material depends on various factors, such as the application environment, corrosion resistance levels, and load-bearing capacity.
Grub screws are available in varied sizes in both metric and imperial measurements, signifying their diameters and lengths. For instance, in M5 x M150mm set screw, the diameter is 5mm while 150mm is the length.
Popular Types of Grub Screws
Grub screws come in various varieties depending on their designs, shape, and applications. They are standard screws providing a decent appearance and shiny surface at the applied areas. Some of the popular set screw types include:
- Cup Point – Screws featuring a bowl-shaped tip are mostly used.
- Flat Point – These are cost-effective screws installed for commonly resetting or relocating objects.
- Cone Point – They have a durable, long-lasting sharp tip with a cone shape. They are easy to install with various applications.
- Half Dog Point – These fasteners carry the tube-shaped point for various applications.
Furthermore, grub screws are classified into hexagon head grub screws and socket head drive grub screws. The earlier types feature a hexagon head–threaded all over the body. On the other hand, socket head drive grub screws feature drive ports (recessed) for easy integration of a compatible tool, such as a hexagonal Hex key.
Typical Uses of Grub Screws
Grub screws are countersunk screws that tend to find various applications in multiple engineering and mechanical uses. They are preferred due to their headless designs and nice streamlined appearance. Some of the grub screw typical applications include:
- Electronics
- Machinery
- Construction
- Carpentry
- Households Applications
- Automotive Industry
- Machine Automation and Repair
- Security
- Automation and Control System Industry
- Medical Sectors
- Services and Preservation Applications.
