What are Thread Cutting Screws?

Question

I'm trying to put a desk together and the instructions state that the screws are "thread cutting screws" and thus require additional force. What sort of additional force is it refering to?

It's IMPOSSIBLE to s***w these in and I don't have an electric s***w driver and the instructions don't require one as a tool.

Does anyone have any tips? Thank you!

Answer 1

These thread cutting screws are screws that are specially designed to help create the pilot hole and threads inside the wood.  Pretty much, the s***w itself creates the exact same thing as the threads on a drill bit.  You can do this with a s***w driver, just push hard hard enough to get it in.

Answer 2

Thread Cutting Screws  or   Self-drilling screws    or  self tapping screws have sometimes a type of drill point at the tip so it start making a hole. And yes you can put them in without an el s***w driver but that takes a lot of pressure and time especially in metal less in wood..

If you have a drill, use a small drill and make a  a pilot hole. That makes life easier. If you do not have a drill then use a punch and when you do not have that either try a nail, the type that is used for walls to make a pilot hole the size of the tip [that is smaller than the thread. ]

But be care full if you have the pilot hole to make  in metal. Use safety glasses and use a piece of wood  against  the other site of the material where you will punch a hole.

Answer 3

The are "self tapping"screws and, can be replaced with regular screws. Usually you have to have an electric drill to get enough speed to make the initial start, then the screws will "self tap" The other way, would be to tap holes for the screws first and then, use the screws.