Why are there different s***w heads on screws? Do they really make a difference?

Question

Like a hex head, Flat head, or Philips. Does it really make a difference?

Answer 1

I know that with a Phillips, one can put more torque on it with out striping the head. With a flat head there is more chance of slipping and stripping.

Just thinking of it with an engineering mind, the more surface area there is for the mechanism that is turning it to make contact with, the more the torque is split up. With a flat head, there are only two surfaces dealing with the torque. With a Phillips there are eight surfaces to take on the same torque.

Just my thinkings

Answer 2

It makes a huge difference... and there are many more than three types.

The traditional flat head is the original s***w design because it was simple to manufacture.  The Philipis cross-head was designed for use in automation so that a machine could insert screws without chewing up the s***w head.  They also have a great area in contact with the driver and so can withstand greater torque.

The hex head was designed to be non-slip (note that Philips heads are not non-slip and have had various modifications to improve their friction).  

A notable modification in recent years has been the proliferation of tamper-proof screws.  Tamper-proof Torx and hex heads have a pin in the middle of the s***w, requiring a hole in the middle of the driver, otherwise they cannot be engaged.  Tamper-proof slotted heads usually have a ramp design so that they can be tightened but not loosened.  

Answer 3

yes.. they definitely...

there are many types of s***w heads.. each for specific usage or application.

for example.. the countersink head is used where the s***w head must flush with the component surface. a pan head has large diameters & is used where the load on the s***w needs to be distributed over a large area. & hexagon head for max gripping or for max tightning torque, similar with philips head.

In short based on the application the s***w type or s***w head is choosen.

I recommend you to go thro some s***w manufacturers website to learn more abt this.. if really intrested.

Answer 4

They do actually make a difference, and that's why there are different s***w heads.  When it comes to s******g I'm a bodger, according to my wife.  However, if I were a carpenter, a tool maker, an engineer or whatever, then I'd appreciate the differences more, and why I should select this particular type of s***w head instead of some other one.