Self-Drilling Screws For Steel Up To ½”
Can self-drilling screws really drill steel up to ½”? Yes, if you have the correct screw. You need what is called a #5 point screw, and a quality one at that to really make it work. These screws are sometimes called TEK 5, Iron Eaters, Super Diggers and a variety of other names. The most common configuration is the 12-24 x 1-1/4” hex head screw all though we stock #5 point screws in lengths up to 6”! The 12-24 will have a 5/16” head while the next diameter up, ¼-20 will have a 3/8” head.
Selecting The Correct Length On Self-Drilling Screws For Thick Steel
While choosing the correct length screw for drilling into thick steel is simple enough, make sure you consider the drill point. The drill point on a number #5 self-drilling screw is about ¾” until the full thread comes in. The bottom line is you may need to go a little longer than you want to get the job done.
What Is Best Speed For Installing #5 Point Self-Drillers?
That is a very good question and if you have searched for an answer, you have many to choose from! You will see recommendations typically around 1,500 to 1,800 RPM, some higher, some lower. From the screws we tested on our work bench, the faster speed was better. We were going for fastest installation and found a cordless impact driver to offer the fastest install and we didn’t’ snap one off. “TEK” Screw Guns are available that are designed for installing self-drilling screws if you want to go that route. The work like a drywall screw-gun in that you can set a point where the tool will clutch out.
Finishes Available
We stock #5 drill point screws in a zinc finish, an exterior finish as well as a 410 stainless. Some of my customers are telling me that the screws with the exterior finish will drill in a little easier. It’s possible that the coating works as a lubricant, but I really couldn’t say for sure. If you go with the stainless, keep in mind they will have a slight magnetism.
Quality Matters With Self-Drilling Screws
I mentioned earlier you need a good quality screw. There are so many vendors making self-drilling screws with a #5 point. We have 3 different vendors we use to cover the sizes our customers are requiring. We stick with these vendors as we have used them for not just years but decades for our local customers, so we know they are quality. I am sure there are other good vendors out there, but I sell these screws day in and day out without worries.
