Socket Screws

Socket screws are essential fasteners known for their strength, precision, and versatility across a wide range of industries. Whether you need to secure heavy machinery, assemble electronics, or build structural components, socket screws offer reliable performance with clean installs. Below is a breakdown of the common socket screw types we carry and their key applications.

• Socket Head Cap Screws
  These are the go-to in high-torque and low-clearance applications where strength is needed. Designed with a cylindrical head and internal hex socket, they’re easy to install with a standard Allen key. These are used everywhere from heavy machinery to automotive lines and aerospace assemblies.

• Flat Socket Cap
  Designed to sit flush with the surface, it's a top pick in builds where aesthetics matter or where protruding hardware isn't acceptable. They’re commonly used in electronics, machinery assemblies, and anywhere a clean finish is necessary.

• Button Socket Cap
  Feature a rounded, low-profile head with a hex socket drive. They're usually the choice for visible applications such as furniture, equipment panels, or automotive interiors.

• Low Head Socket Cap
  Offer the same strength as standard socket cap screws with a slimmer head height. Perfect for low-clearance installs in electronics, compact machinery, or tight engine compartments.

• Socket Shoulder Cap Screws
  Also known as shoulder bolts, have a machined shoulder between the head and the threaded portion. They're made for rotating or sliding applications and used in moving parts, pivot points, and alignment fixtures.

• Pipe Plugs
  Utilized in sealing off the ends of piping systems. With tapered threads and grip, they’re the preferred choice in hydraulic, pneumatic, and plumbing systems. These keep systems leak-free and running tight in industrial and maintenance settings.

• Cup Point Set Screws
  These screws have a cup-shaped indentation (cup point) on the end opposite the head. The cup point digs into the mating surface when tightened and provides a secure hold. Most often utilized in machinery, automotive, and equipment assembly for securing components onto shafts without causing any damage.

• Oval Point Set Screws
  Similar to cup point set screws, but with an oval-shaped indentation on the end. Oval point set screws offer a slightly different contact surface, which may be used as an advantage in applications such as fixtures, machinery, and equipment assembly. It prevents tampering, ensuring security in any setting.

• Dog Set Screws
  Dog set screws have a flat, long tip instead of a pointed or cup-shaped end. They are used in gear and pulley assemblies and provide a strong grip on shafts without causing any surface damage. It is widely used in machinery and automotive industries.

• Flat Point Set Screws
  These set screws have a flat tip at the end, providing a larger contact surface area compared to cup or oval point set screws. They are utilized in machinery, equipment, and woodworking applications where a flush surface is required.

• Nylon Tip Set Screws
  Set screws with a nylon tip at the end, which provides a non-marring, vibration-resistant grip. They are most commonly used in applications that protect delicate surfaces in furniture assembly, machinery, and electronics applications, preventing damage.

• Brass Tip Set Screws
  Similar to nylon tip set screws, but with a brass tip. Brass tip set screws offer similar benefits while providing differing aesthetic and material compatibilities. By offering corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity, these screws are the preferred choice in electronics, marine & offshore, and automotive industries where non-ferrous materials are necessary.

• Knurled Cup Set Screws
  Set screws that feature a textured inner cup for extra bite. The knurled surface helps grip softer materials or parts that may see movement, offering strong hold. They are utilized in applications allowing for hand tightening without the need for additional tools, usually in automotive and equipment assembly.

• Slotted Set Screws
  Set screws with a slot on the top of the head, which are compatible for tightening with a flat screwdriver. They are used in applications where using a hex key or wrench is limited.

• Square Head Set Screws
  These set screws have a square-shaped head instead of a hexagonal or slotted head. Square head set screws are often used in heavy-duty applications where higher torque is required. These screws are commonly used in heavy machinery, construction, and infrastructure projects where robust fasteners are required.

Applications and Amenities

At South Coast Fasteners, we're proud our inventory serves as performance benchmarks across every industry. Have you ever noticed socket screws show up in every corner of every industry? That's because they work. In industrial machinery and equipment, they keep moving parts locked in place. In automotive and aerospace, they’re trusted for high-performance and high-pressure connections. Construction professionals use them for structural integrity, while electronics engineers utilize their low profiles and clean installs. Furniture makers, fixture builders, and even stage designers turn to socket screws when strength and aesthetics matter. Their flush fit keeps surfaces clean and their tamper-resistant options protect things that actually matter.

Material and Grades

Socket screws come in various grades, each offering specific properties and characteristics to suit different uses. When selecting the appropriate grade for your application, please consider factors such as required strength, corrosion resistance, and environmental conditions.

• Grade 2
  Grade 2 socket screws are the basic grade and are made from low or medium carbon steel. They are not heat-treated, making them the choice for general-purpose applications where high strength is not a requirement.

• Grade 5
  Grade 5 socket screws are made from medium carbon steel and are tempered to achieve higher strength and hardness. They are used in automotive, industrial machinery, and equipment assembly where moderate strength is required.

• Grade 8
  Grade 8 socket screws are the highest grade of standard socket screws, offering exceptional strength. They are made from medium carbon alloy steel and are heat-treated. Grade 8 socket screws are most commonly used in heavy machinery, automotive, and structural applications where maximum strength is needed.

• Alloy Steel
  Alloy steel socket screws are made from alloy steel containing additional elements such as chromium, molybdenum, or vanadium to enhance strength, hardness, and resistance. They are commonly used in high-stress applications such as aerospace, automotive, and machinery.

• Stainless Steel
  Stainless steel socket screws offer corrosion resistance, making them ideal for applications exposed to moisture, chemicals, or high temperatures. Common stainless-steel grades used for socket screws include 18-8 (Type 304 & 316) stainless steel, each offering different levels of corrosion resistance and strength.

• Silicon Bronze
  Our silicon bronze socket screws deliver superior corrosion resistance without the red brass content, making them the top choice for coastal city yards and municipal jobs where durability against salt air and moisture is non-negotiable.

• Brass
  Brass socket screws provide corrosion resistance, electrical conductivity, and are aesthetically pleasing. They are commonly used in electrical, plumbing, and decorative applications where appearance and conductivity are important.

Why Choose South Coast Fasteners?

At South Coast Fasteners, we specialize in the application of socket screws. That focus means better inventory, faster shipping, and a team that actually understands what you're building. Whether you need high-strength options or tamper-resistant heads, we’ve got the right socket product for the job. With decades of hands-on experience, South Coast Fasteners is here to serve you.

Order Socket Screws Online Today

Browse our full selection of socket screws online and get what you need when you're ready or reach out for a quote. Need help choosing the right fit? Contact South Coast Fasteners directly if you have any questions.