The Needle Screw
Needle screws are small, finely threaded screws used in engineering and design projects where secure, precise fastening, and a small profile are required. The screws are generally referred to as M2.5 or M2.5x5, which references the approximate size of the screw. The screws, which are also referred to as set screws, are commonly used in projects that require a secure, permanent hold in a limited space.
The major difference between needle screws and machine or wood screws is in the threads. Needle screws feature a very fine threading pattern while machine or wood screws feature a coarser threading. The finer threading allows the needle screw to cut into and grip the surface more securely while also leaving a smaller profile than a machine or wood screw. The coarser thread is more suited towards easily threading and unscrewing the screw.
The most common use for needle screws is in the electronic and mechanical engineering industries. The small, secure fastening makes them a preferable solution for these types of projects whether it is fastening a CPU to its motherboard, or placing an medical instrument in its housing. The small profile of the screw is also preferable when the aspect ratio must remain the same, such as in elevator cab installations.
Needle screws can be used with a wide variety of materials, although the type of screw required will depend on the material. For instance, steel screws are best for hard materials such as metal, while brass screws function better with soft materials. Additionally, choosing the correct length for the screw is important. When possible, select a length that is slightly larger than the material thickness in order to secure the material safely and securely. Most needle screws are sold in a range of sizes to choose from, but custom screws can also be made to fit the specific project.
Overall, needle screws, also referred to as set screws, provide an invaluable solution for projects requiring secure fastening with a small profile. The finely threaded screws can be combined with a wide variety of materials, and are a preferred choice for engineering and design projects. An understanding of the different length and thread materials, as well as a careful selection of screws, is vital to a successful and secure fastening.
