The versatility and aesthetic appeal of button head screws position them as a staple fastener in many applications, from automotive repair and maintenance to furniture assembly. These sturdy, low-profile fasteners are also popular in heavy-duty industrial jobs that involve working with thick materials like steel alloys. Their dome-shaped heads provide a smooth, streamlined appearance and reduce the risk of injury from jagged or sharp edges commonly found on other screw types.
However, these fasteners are not without their drawbacks. Their rounded head profile might not distribute loads evenly, potentially leading to failure in certain applications. Additionally, their reliance on hex socket drivers might result in stripping or cam-out when used with the wrong tool size or when over-torqued.
Fortunately, these shortcomings can be overcome with proper planning and design. By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of button head bolts, engineers can make better decisions regarding their selection.
While a hex socket driver allows for easy installation and removal of these screws, it is important to remember that the hex shape provides only limited contact surface on the head of the screw. As such, these fasteners may not distribute loads as well as other screw types that offer a larger bearing area or a deeper countersink.
Thankfully, these issues can be easily overcome with the use of a properly-sized Allen wrench or hex key. KD Fasteners offers a wide selection of standard and metric sizes with various head styles, including pan, flat, round, truss, oval, slotted, Phillips, Torx-6 lobe alternate, socket, and combo. We also offer these bolts in a range of materials, including the corrosion-resistant alloy Inconel. button head screws