2024-08-27
The Difference Between Self-Tapping and Self-Drilling Screws
In the threaded fastener industry, terms are not always consistent. The same part or functionality may have multiple names, some of which have become interchangeable, making it all the more confusing. Hence why the following question is so popular: what is the difference between self-tapping and self-drilling screws?This is a question of functionality. However, many stores and manufacturers label screws with this description according to their own unique categorization, because different types of screws (for instance, drywall screws, wood screws, and sheet metal screws) may have one or both of these features. Huyett shows the difference by first calling out tapping screws, which are divided into self-drilling screws and sheet metal screws, but other fastener suppliers may arrange their selection differently.