When researching fastener types, you may come across hammer drive screws. Also known as U-drive screws, they feature characteristics of both nails and traditional screws. Like nails, they are driven into objects with a hammer. Like traditional screws, hammer drive screws have threading that grips the interior walls of the object in which they are installed. Below are five benefits of hammer drive screws.
#1) Easy to Install
Installing hammer drive screws is a quick and easy process. Start by drilling a hole with a slightly smaller diameter than the outer diameter of the screw itself. Next, place the hammer drive screw directly above the hole and strike the head with a hammer. As you strike the head, the screw will push into the pilot hole. Installation is a straightforward process that typically takes less than a minute to complete.
#2) Protection From Over-Torquing
You don’t have to worry about over-torquing with hammer drive screws. Over-torquing, of course, involves the application of excessive torque — to the point where it damages the fastener’s threads or deforms the surrounding material. Hammer driver screws, however, aren’t installed with torque; they are installed with a hammering action, eliminating the risk of torque-related damage.
#3) Tamper-Resistant
Hammer drive screws are naturally tamper-resistant. They are classified as permanent fasteners that, like other permanent fasteners, are difficult to remove. Traditional threaded fasteners can typically be removed with a wrench or screwdriver. You can place the wrench or screwdriver around the fastener’s head and turn it counterclockwise. Hammer drive screws can not be removed using these tools. Once installed, they are far more difficult to remove.
#4) Clean Finish
Another benefit of hammer drive screw is a clean finish. They offer a smooth, polished appearance that many people prefer over traditional threaded fasteners. Most hammer drive screws feature a slightly round mushroom-like hammer. During installation, the head will press against the upper surface of the object to achieve a clean finish.
#5) Vibration-Resistant
Hammer drive screws are vibration-resistant. Vibrations can pose a serious problem to traditional threaded fasteners. When exposed to vibrations, they will often work their way out of their pilot holes, resulting in a loose fit and weak hold. Hammer driver screws, though, use an interference fit, meaning they are slightly wider than the diameter of the pilot hole in which they are installed. This interference fit allows them to resist vibrations to maintain a tight, strong hold.