Complete Guide to Grub Screws
What are Grub Screws?
Grub Screws, which are also known as Set Screws, are a type of fastener that are manufactured without a protruding head and are generally entirely threaded. This means that the screw can be fastened into a pre-tapped fixing hole as the screw will fit perfectly within the space without being obtrusive to the surrounding area.
Grub Screws are manufactured with varing driver styles to suit a range of applications and are available in high performance Stainless Steel.
What are Grub Screws used for?
Grub Screws are commonly used within applications where there is limited space or those which require a smooth finish without protrusion. Grub Screws are ideal for use within door locking mechanisms, to tightly join objects together and create a robust structure, for kitchen and bathroom fixings and engineering/automotive applications. They are ideal for applications with require a flush, discreet finish as they do not require a nut to secure them into place.
How to remove a lodged Grub Screw
If you find that a Grub Screw has become lodged in the fixing hole and the driver head has been worn, corroded or damaged, there are a few actions that you can take to resolve the issue.
- Apply a lubricant - this will help to remove rust/corrosion from the screw
- Use the corresponding drive type - ensure that the drive is positioned into the head correctly and turn counterclockwise
- Turn counterclockwise - this may seem counterproductive, but tightening the screw can help to break the seal which has been formed from the rust
If you cannot dislodge the Grub Screw after following these steps, we recommend trying the following:
- Source an awl or centre punch tool (pointed tools that can puncture metal) and a hammer
- Make a small indentation into the centre of the grub screw using the hammer and tool of your choice - this will be used as a guide point for the drill
- Select an appropriate drill bit for the space and begin drilling down into the Grub Screw
- When the hole has been drilled, insert an appropriate screw extractor into the hole and secure it by gently tapping it with a hammer
- Turn the screw extractor counterclockwise by using the extra torque from a tap and die handle
Grub Screw Selection Table
Take a look at the below table to identify which Grub Screw is most suitable for your project.
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