Effect of thread friction on load capacity of hex washer self-tapping screws

The load capacity of hex washer self-tapping screws often depends on its preload force, and the size of the preload force is directly related to thread friction. When torque is applied, part of the energy is used to overcome friction, and only the remaining part is converted into preload force. Therefore, the greater the friction, the more torque is applied, but the actual preload force produced may be reduced, affecting the overall strength of the connection.
The machining accuracy of threads directly affects the contact area and friction between threads. High-precision thread processing can reduce poor contact, thereby reducing friction loss and increasing effective pre-tightening force. Appropriate thread shape also optimizes friction characteristics in the application.
The use of lubricants or specific coatings can significantly reduce the friction coefficient and thus increase the load capacity of the screw. Lubrication reduces frictional heat, increases the working life of screws, and helps avoid wear or overheating due to friction.
When designing and applying hex washer self-tapping screws, the influence of friction needs to be evaluated through appropriate calculation models. This usually involves a comprehensive consideration of friction, preload and load-bearing capacity to ensure that a safety factor can still be maintained under larger working loads.
Thread friction is a key factor affecting the load capacity of hex washer self-tapping screws. Preload and connection strength can be effectively increased by optimizing thread design, selecting appropriate materials, and using lubricants. In practical applications, fully understanding the characteristics of thread friction helps ensure the safety and reliability of screws under load-bearing conditions.