Have you ever been confused between a set screw and a grub screw? Many people use these two types of screws interchangeably, but they have significant differences. For those wondering about the differences between these two types of screws, this article is for you. We will discuss these screws, their uses, advantages, and disadvantages. By the end of this article, you will understand which screw to use for your project needs.
What is Set Screw?
A set screw is a type of screw that is used to hold two objects together or adjust their location. They are typically made of steel, brass, or stainless steel and have a hexagonal socket head. Set screws are often used to secure bearings and other types of machinery. They are best used where high axial holding power is needed. Set screws are designed to penetrate the surface of an object to create a secure attachment. They have a specific torque requirement, so the material they attach to is not damaged.
What is Grub Screw?
A grub screw is a type of screw that is used to hold two objects together or adjust their location, just like set screws. The primary difference between a grub screw and a set screw is the type of head it has. A grub screw has a flat-bottomed socket head, while a set screw has a pointed hexagonal socket head. Grub screws are typically used in exposed areas where a set screw would look unattractive.
Difference between Set Screw and Grub Screw
Set screws are solid threaded fasteners used to hold one object in place relative to another. They have a conical point that digs into the material when tightened, preventing it from rotating. Grub screws are similar to set screws but have an internal hex socket instead of an external head and are commonly used to lock pulleys and gears on shafts.
Type of Thread
The main difference between a set screw and a grub screw is the type of thread used. A set screw has an external thread, while a grub screw has an internal thread. The external thread on a set screw allows it to be tightened into place, while the internal thread on a grub screw prevents it from being loosened once it is in place.
Head Shape
Another difference between a set screw and a grub screw is the shape of their heads. A set screw typically has a flat head or an oval head, while a grub screw typically has either an Allen key head or a slotted head. The shape of the head determines how easy it is to grip and turn the screws when tightening or loosening them.
Pointed End
A third difference between these two types of screws is that a set screw has a pointed end, while a grub screw does not. The pointed end on the set screws makes them easier to insert into pre-drilled holes, as they can easily penetrate through any material without causing damage to the surface area around the hole. On the other hand, grub screws do not have this feature and must be inserted into pre-drilled holes with care to avoid damaging the surrounding area.
Application
Set screws are typically used for securing two objects together by clamping one object against another, such as in machinery or furniture joints. Grub screws are usually used for fastening two objects together by inserting them into pre-drilled holes to keep them from moving relative to each other, such as in door hinges or motor mounts.
Cost
Finally, another difference between these two types of screws is their cost; generally, set screws are more expensive than grub screws due to their specialized design and manufacturing process. As such, they are often reserved for applications where precision and reliability are paramount, and cost is less of an issue than performance and durability.
Uses
The primary use of both set screws and grub screws is to secure or align two revolving parts, adjust the position of a component in a machine, or handle a strong axial force. Set screws are commonly used in industrial machinery, motors, pumps, engines, and other applications that require a secure connection between two moving parts. Grub screws are often used for camera tripods, furniture, door handles, and other applications where the screw head will be exposed.
Conclusion
In summary, both set screws and grub screws serve a similar purpose, but they have notable differences. A set screw with a pointed hexagonal socket head is designed for a secure attachment where high axial holding power is needed. A grub screw has a flat-bottomed socket head and is often used in exposed areas where a set screw would look unattractive. The choice between these two screws will depend on the project’s specific needs, and each comes with advantages and disadvantages. It is essential to understand these differences to select the right screw for your application.
