Understanding Benefits and Applications of Knurled Thumb Screws

Knurled thumb screws are one of the most important types of screws used in various industrial applications. These screws are distinguishable due to their knurled side designs and over-sized heads. These screws can be tightened or loosened manually. These knurled screws are made for applications that require regular modifications because they are easy to remove. This post discusses why knurled thumb screws are gaining popularity in industry and applications.

Advantages of Knurled Thumb Screws

Knurled thumb screws or thumbscrews, as they are commonly known, are preferred over several other varieties due to certain advantages they offer.

• Easy to Hold: The large heads provide easy grip and this helps in loosening or tightening applications. This is the reason why thumbscrews are used in restructuring projects or applications that require regular maintenance. In short, these screws are not built for structure application projects.
• Remains Fixed: Mostly these screws are fixed in place using a washer. The washer helps hold a screw even if a bolt is loosened. Hence, thumbscrews are becoming a choice for outdoor applications where they may endure daily abuse.
• Helps Save Time, Effort and Money: These screws can be easily removed or fitted as per the requirement. This helps engineers to save time on repairs and maintenance. Also, they can save on their efforts. These screws allow them to conduct quick fixes or repairs. This definitely helps to save money and increase productivity.
• Durable Construction: Most knurled thumbscrews are made from steel or metal alloys such as brass, which improves their strength, as well as aesthetic appeal.
• Impact Resistant: These screws can be provided with custom design features such as special drives, thread, thread length, head diameters and, knurl design. These designs help improve the impact resistance of these screws. Hence, knurled thumb screws are preferred in applications that are subjected to vibrations.

Although knurled thumbscrews can be easily removed or managed manually, they can be tightened using pliers, too. This type of tightening provides efficient torque.

Applications Using Knurled Thumb Screws
Most thumbscrews are made from stainless steel, which adds to their durability, and lasting performance. These screws derive their anti-corrosion properties from its material – stainless steel. The thumb screws are popularly used on:

• Safety covers for electronic gadgets
• Battery covers of small electronic devices
• High vibration Boats
• Off-road vehicles
• High stress, corrosive, and outdoor applications
• Aerospace Applications

Knurled thumb screws can withstand the daily abuse of most industrial applications, which makes them an ideal choice for many fastening projects. Apart from the above-mentioned advantages, you can always approach an expert like Norwood Screw Machine Parts to understand the benefits of these screws in your applications.