Machine screws vs self-tappers
Machine screws need a pre-tapped hole or a nut. They do not form their own thread in sheet metal the way self-tapping screws do.
Pan head (round / cheese style)
Pan head machine screws sit proud of the surface and are easy to drive with a Phillips bit. Common callouts: DIN 7985 / ISO 7045.
Use for:
- Appliance covers
- Furniture brackets with clearance holes + nuts
- Electrical boxes where a raised head is acceptable
Countersunk (flat head)
Countersunk machine screws finish flush in a matching countersink. Common callouts: DIN 965 / ISO 7046.
Use for:
- Instrument panels
- Furniture faces
- Any surface that must stay smooth
RFQ recipe
Machine screw · [Pan|Countersunk] · M[thread] × [length] · Phillips · A2-70 / 304 · [standard]
FAQ
Q: Do I need a nut?
A: Yes, unless the mating part is already tapped.
Q: Can I mix with self-tappers?
A: Keep families separate on the BOM — thread forming vs machine threads are not interchangeable.