Pan Head Machine Screws 304 Stainless Steel Phillips Drive Metric M3 M4 For PCB Electronics Assembly
What is a machine screw?
A machine screw is a fully threaded fastener. Unlike self‑tapping screws, it does not cut its own thread. It requires a pre‑tapped hole or a nut. The thread runs from under the head all the way to the tip. This gives you consistent clamping force and easy disassembly.
Three decisions – one right screw
Choosing the right machine screw comes down to three simple decisions.
Decision 1 – What head shape?
| Head shape | What it does |
|---|---|
| Pan head | Wide bearing surface. Flat underside. Good for general use. |
| Flat head | 82 degree countersink. Sits flush with the surface. |
| Hex head | Six sides. Use a wrench. Higher torque. |
| Button head | Low dome. Clean appearance. |
| Cheese head | Cylindrical with straight sides. Tight spaces. |
| Truss head | Wide and low. Spreads pressure on soft materials. |
| Round head | Simple dome. General assembly. |
| Fillister head | Higher head profile. Deeper drive engagement. |
Decision 2 – What drive type?
| Drive | Tool | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Phillips | Phillips screwdriver | Most common, self‑centering |
| Slotted | Flat blade screwdriver | Simple, light duty |
| Hex socket | Allen key | High torque, tight spaces |
| Torx | Torx driver | Maximum torque, no cam out |
Decision 3 – What material?
| Material | Best for |
|---|---|
| 304 stainless steel | Outdoor, moisture, general rust protection |
| 316 stainless steel | Marine, saltwater, chemicals |
| Brass | Non‑magnetic, decorative, electronics |
| Steel with zinc plating | Cost effective, indoor and light outdoor |
| Aluminium | Lightweight, non‑magnetic |
| Bronze | Marine, corrosion resistant |
| Copper | Electrical conductivity |
Strength grades explained
| Grade | Tensile strength | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 4.8 | 400 MPa | Light duty, general assembly |
| 6.8 | 600 MPa | Medium strength, higher loads |
| 8.8 | 800 MPa | Heavy duty, industrial |
| 10.9 | 1000 MPa | High strength, demanding |
| 12.9 | 1200 MPa | Maximum strength, critical |
Sizes we carry
Metric M2, M2.5, M3, M4, M5, M6. Lengths from 3mm to 100mm. Inch sizes also available. Standard coarse thread. Fine thread available for thin materials.
Common applications
Electronics enclosures. PCB mounting. Machinery assembly. Automotive components. Marine equipment. Instrument panels. Furniture. Appliances. General mechanical construction.
Quality
ISO 9001 and ISO 10012 certified. Thread gauging and dimensional inspection on every batch. Hardness testing on all heat treated parts.
Custom
Need a non‑standard length or special head marking? Send us your drawing or sample. We manufacture to your specification. OEM orders accepted.
Q&A
Q Do machine screws need a tapped hole?
A: Yes. They require a pre‑tapped hole or a nut. They do not cut their own threads.
Q What is the most common head type?
A: Pan head. It is the default choice for most applications.
Q What material is best for outdoor use?
A: 304 or 316 stainless steel. 316 offers better saltwater resistance.
Q What does 8.8 mean on a screw?
A: It is the strength grade. 8.8 indicates 800 MPa tensile strength.
Q Can I use machine screws in wood?
A: Yes, if you use a threaded insert or a nut on the back side. Do not drive them directly into wood.
Q Do you make custom machine screws?
A: Yes. Send us your drawing. We make what you need.
Q What is the difference between fine and coarse thread?
A: Fine thread gives better holding in thin material. Coarse thread engages faster and is more common.
Machine Screw Quick Selection Guide
| Your application | Recommended head | Recommended drive | Recommended material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electronics enclosure | Pan | Phillips | 304 stainless |
| PCB mounting | Flat | Phillips | Brass |
| Industrial machinery | Hex | Hex socket | Steel Grade 8.8 |
| Marine equipment | Pan | Phillips | 316 stainless |
| Instrument panel | Flat | Slotted | Brass |
| Furniture assembly | Pan | Phillips | Zinc plated steel |
| Automotive components | Hex | Hex socket | Steel Grade 10.9 |
Company Profile
YH Fastener has been manufacturing precision fasteners since 1998. Our range includes machine screws, self tapping screws, shoulder screws, and custom fasteners. ISO 9001 and ISO 10012 certified. Every batch inspected. Factory direct. Ship to 60+ countries.
