£2.50
Excluding delivery
£2.50
Excluding delivery
Machine Screws
Fix metal components with confidence using our range of durable machine screws. Designed with precise threads and corrosion-resistant zinc plating, ideal for securing machinery, light engineering projects, or home repairs. Choose convenient multipacks with matching nuts and washers for a hassle-free, secure fit.
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High-performance metalworking requires reliable, accurately engineered fasteners. Machine screws are essential hardware designed to create strong, semi-permanent metal-to-metal joints. Unlike wood or drywall screws, machine screws have a completely blunt tip and a consistent metric thread running along the shank. They don't cut into material, instead they rely on pre-threaded tapped holes or matching hex nuts to pull two components together under clamping tension.
For larger structural fittings, browse our full selection of heavy-duty bolts, nuts & washers.
Tips for installing machine screws:
- Prepare the hole by ensuring it’s clean and clear of metal burrs. If screwing directly into metal, use a tap set to match the thread pitch (e.g. an M5 tap for an M5 machine screw).
- Protect materials by placing a flat washer between the substrate and the nut. Washers prevent the nut from digging into soft metals or plastic casings while distributing the load evenly over a larger surface area.
- Avoid overtightening but screw into place until snug. Overtightening can strip the internal metric threads, especially in softer metals such as aluminium.
If you need more advice on your next project, visit our DIY top tips page.
FAQs
What is a machine screw?
Machine screws are specifically designed for fastening metal parts together. This might be for securing panels on household appliances, assembling flat-pack metal shelving, mounting electrical enclosures, or clamping motor components or brackets into pre-tapped sockets.
Can I use a machine screw without a nut?
Yes, you can use a machine screw without a nut provided the hole in your receiving metal component has been pre-drilled and tapped with the exact same metric thread pitch as the screw. E.g. an M4 screw in an M4 tapped hole.
Are machine screws conductive?
Yes, most steel and zinc-coated machine screws conduct electricity. Always ensure power supplies are disconnected before installing or adjusting screws near electrical circuits. For electrical socket faceplates and electrical boxes, use specialised electrical screws designed for safe backbox fitting.
If you're changing a plug socket for the first time, give our guide for how to change a plug socket a read for expert tips, step-by-step instructions and information on safety.
What are machine screws made of?
Machine screws are made from durable steel alloy designed to withstand strain and vibration.
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