304 Stainless Steel Hex Self-Tapping Screws

304 stainless steel hex head self-tapping screws from Luoyue Metal are designed for B2B buyers who need corrosion-resistant wood and sheet-metal fasteners that cut their own thread on installation. The same production line covers cylindrical head self-tapping screws, wood screws and custom thread-forming fasteners in 304, 316 and 410 stainless steel.

Product overview

This listing covers a 304 stainless steel hex head self-tapping screw sample drawn from the standard catalogue. The full range spans M2.6 to M8 thread diameters, head styles (hex washer, hex flange, pan, flat, button, oval), drive types (Phillips, slotted, Pozidriv, Torx, hex socket) and thread-forming types (A, AB, B, T, Hi). Self-tapping screws form a mating thread in a pre-drilled or un-drilled pilot hole, removing the need for a separate tapping operation.

Material and mechanical properties

Thread and head standards

• Head type: hex washer, hex flange, hex socket, pan, flat, button, oval, truss.
• Drive type: Phillips, slotted, Pozidriv, Torx, hex socket, combination (slot / Phillips).
• Thread type: A-type (forming thread for thin sheet, ≤ 0.9 mm), AB-type (multi-purpose for sheet up to 2.3 mm), B-type (for non-ferrous metal), T-type and Hi-type (for stainless sheet and harder material).
• Standards covered: DIN 7976 (slotted pan head tapping screws), ISO 1479 (hex head tapping screws), GB / T 5282 / T 5283 / T 5284 / T 5285 / T 15856.4.
• Standard thread sizes: M2.6, M3, M3.5, M4, M4.2, M4.8, M5, M5.5, M6, M8. Lengths from 6 mm to 100 mm.

Applications

• Cabinetry and wooden furniture assembly: hex washer head screws give strong torque without cam-out.
• Sheet metal enclosures, HVAC ducting, electrical boxes: AB-type and B-type threads.
• Outdoor decking and landscaping: 316 stainless recommended for marine / chloride exposure.
• Electronic device chassis, white goods, automotive interior trim.

Why choose Luoyue Metal

• One supplier for the full fastener family: screws, bolts, nuts, washers, threaded rods and custom thread-forming parts.
• Standard parts in stock; samples shipped within 7 to 10 working days; customized parts in 10 to 20 working days.
• Drawing formats accepted: PDF, STEP, DWG, DXF. Inspection report and mill certificate included with shipment.
• Packaging in inner plastic bag + compartmentalized carton + export pallet; standard shipping by UPS, FedEx, DHL, TNT, EMS for samples and by sea for production runs.

FAQ

What is the difference between A, AB, B, T and Hi thread types?

A-type forms a thread in thin sheet (under 0.9 mm). AB-type is the most common multi-purpose type for sheet up to 2.3 mm. B-type suits non-ferrous metal and softer material. T-type is for thicker stainless sheet. Hi-type uses a sharper point and wider thread spacing for stainless and harder metal where AB-type struggles to start.

What pilot hole size do I need for a self-tapping screw?

Pilot hole diameter depends on material thickness and screw size. For AB-type M4 screws in 1.5 mm cold-rolled steel, the recommended pilot hole is 3.2 mm; in 1.0 mm stainless sheet, 3.0 mm. Send your drawing and sheet thickness for a specific recommendation.

Can I get 316 stainless instead of 304?

Yes. 316 stainless offers better corrosion resistance in chloride and marine environments and is recommended for outdoor or coastal applications. Production runs are quoted case by case; samples in 316 ship in 10 to 20 working days.

What head drive do you recommend for assembly line use?

For automated assembly lines, Torx (star) drive reduces cam-out and increases torque transfer; hex socket drive is the second choice. For manual or field installation, hex washer head is preferred because it accepts standard sockets / wrenches.

Send your drawing (PDF, STEP, DWG, DXF) and a sample or pilot-hole detail to Luoyue Metal for a quote. Standard catalogue screws ship in 7 to 10 working days; custom parts in 10 to 20 working days. Quote response within within 24 hours.