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Complete Guide to Fastener Drive Types
What is a Drive Type?
A fastener drive type refers to the design on the head of a screw or bolt that allows a tool to apply torque and turn it. Each different drive type has its own advantages and can be used in different applications.
What are Common Drive Types?
Phillips: This features a cross shaped slot, this very widely used drive helps to prevent the screwdriver from slipping (cam-out). Commonly used in electronics, applications, and construction because of its ease of use. Click Here to find out more about the Phillips Drive.
Pozi (Pozidriv): This is similar to the Phillips but includes added notches for improved torque and grip to reduce slipping. This is common in woodworking and construction because it offers better torque and reduced cam-out compared to the Phillips. Click Here to find out more about the Pozi Drive.
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Slotted (Flat-Head): This features a single horizontal slot; it is extremely easy to use however this can lead to cam-out when high torque is applied. This is often used for furniture and assembly where minimal torque is required.
Hex Socket (Allen): This features a hexagonal slot, commonly found in furniture. This drive type can handle a large amount of torque and has very minimal cam-out when in use. This is often used in bicycles and machinery where high torque is needed, and fast and easy disassembly is required.
Hex Head (External Hex): This features a hexagonal head used with a wrench or socket. This is common in bolts, automotive and heavy machinery due to the high torque that is needed in these applications.
Torx: This features a star-shaped head with six points. This gives a good grip and reduces the amount of slipping that occurs when in use. Very often used in automative and electronics industries due to its high torque resistance. Click Here to find out more about the Torx Drive.
Pin Torx: This is a security version of the Torx drive which includes a pin to prevent tampering. This is used in security applications for example, public restrooms and elevators because of the prevention to tampering.
Robertson (Square): This features a square shaped drive, this gives good torque compared to the Phillips and Flat headed drivers. This is used primarily in woodworking and construction as it can withstand a high amount of torque and has reduced slipping.
What Drive Types do we have available?
We have many screws and bolts available on our website including cap screws, button screws, nylon screws and stainless-steel bolts. We sell many different drive types including torx, pin torx, pozi and slot. If you would like to see our full range of screws and bolts, please click HERE.
Common Materials Used in Fasteners Include:
| Material | Strength/Durability | Corrosion resistance | Friction |
| Stainless steel | Stainless steel has a high tensile strength and durability leading to its use in heavy duty applications. | Stainless steel is very rust and corrosion resistant. This makes it very ideal for use in harsh environments (marine and industrial). | Stainless steel has a higher amount of friction compared to nylon. This can be beneficial for applications where a secure hold is needed. |
| Nylon | Nylon has a high tensile strength and durability leading to its use in applications that requires a strong and longer lasting material compared to others. | Nylon is resistant to corrosion unlike metal materials and is also chemical resistant leading to its use in very harsh environments. | Nylon has low friction properties compared to metal alternatives. This makes them useful in application where low friction is beneficial. |
| Zinc Plated Steel | The zinc coating can significantly protect the steel by shielding it from environmental factors. It is also very malleable which allows it to fit the shape without cracking. | Steel with zinc plating has a protective layer which helps to prevent rust and corrosion. This means that it is highly effective in environments where the steel is exposed to water/ moisture. | Steel with zinc plating has low friction making it suitable for applications where reduced friction is beneficial: fasteners and moving parts. |
| Brass | Brass is a durable material leading to its use where mechanical strength and corrosion resistance is necessary. | Brass is very resistant including in water. This makes it ideal for plumbing and marine use. | Brass has a moderate amount of friction making it useful for applications where a secure hold and wear resistance is necessary. |
Guest Author
This blog was written by Oscar during his work experience in the Technical Team. Oscar spent a week with us learning about the industry, gaining an understanding about our brand and product range and creating content for the website.
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