Truss Head vs. Pan Head Screws

Pan Head Screws and Truss head screws are the two major types of screws.

What’s the difference between the two of them?

The question that many of us ask every time while purchasing/buying screws. The selection of the right fasteners depends on one’s requirements and needs. Screws are generally categorised according to their heads. All screw contains a head, which is the uppermost part of the screw. The head is generally connected to a shank or lower part, which is the threaded section of the screw. Based on the screw head, there are different types of screws like pan heads and truss head screws. The two screws are similar in shape, but they aren’t necessarily the same.

Let’s discuss in detail the two screws and understand their use, design and properties.

Understanding the Design

Before diving deeper into the specifics of truss and Pan Head Screws, we need to have a basic understanding of screw head design. Why are screws made in a specific style with a certain specification?

Grip

The grooves on the head provide a gripping surface for screwdrivers, allowing the user to fasten or loosen the screw.

Load Distribution

The head of the screw allows even distribution of the load and exerts a better force on the screw, without damaging it.

The screws can also be categorised as countersunk or non-countersunk. If the screw heads rest evenly with the material surface after installation it is termed a countersunk screw. However, if the screw protrudes from the material surface after the installation then it is termed a non-countersunk screw.

Pan Head Screw

Non-countersunk types of threaded fasteners that have mushroom shape heads are termed Pan Head Screws. These screws drive their name from their head having a pan-like resemblance. These are sometimes also known as round-head screws due to their domed head. They provide a wide range of functionality and are easier to use.

Grip

The broad and round head provides enough surface area for better grip so that the screwdriver can move efficiently, thereby simplifying the process.

Clamping Force

The flat underside of the head offers the clamping force to distribute evenly from top to bottom.

Versatile

Pan Head Screws are widely available in different sizes, groove shapes and material specifications, making them suitable for wider use and application. They are typically available with Phillips, slotted, or Robertson-type drive recesses.

How to measure a Pan Head Screw?

Measuring a Pan Head Screw is quite simpler. Pan head-type screws consist of a head, a shaft with threads and a point in the end. Unlike flat head screws, the Pan Head Screws are measured from the underside of the head to the tip of the thread.

Benefits

Low Height

Due to its low height, Pan Head Screws don’t bulge out from the metal surface and are a great choice for achieving minimal protrusion. They are ideal for tight-fitting spaces where having a flat surface finish is required or desirable.

Ease of Torque Application

The broad head can withstand a greater amount of torque without the risk of the user losing the drive head out of the drive.

Application

General Construction

It helps secure drywall and is also used for attaching electrical components and fastening hardware components.

Metalwork

In metal works, it is useful in joining sheet metal panels, helps secure brackets, and other types of general-purpose fastening.

DIY Projects

For assembling furniture kits, building wooden shelves, and various other home improvement or renovation tasks.

Truss Head Screws

Truss head screws are also known as bugle head or lofted head screws. These screws have an extra wide and rounded head. Truss head screws have a round and wide head with a little flat spot on top. They are commonly manufactured using metals like brass, steel or stainless steel. This design offers several advantages:

Clearance

The low profile of truss head screws allows fasting in tighter spaces with minimal clearance above the surface.

Surface Contact

With softer materials like wood or plastic, the wide head effectively distributes clamping force, lowering the chance of material damage.

Aesthetics

Truss head fasteners create a clean, nearly flush finish when driven slightly below the surface.

Benefits of Truss Head Screw

Vibration Resistance

In industries where the material is subjected to vibrations, truss head fasteners provide a wide head that offers a larger contact area. The larger contact area provides improved surface resistance that can prevent loosening of the screw.

Reduced Material Spitting

When working with wood-based material, there’s a chance of spitting off wood while hammering the screw into it. Especially if the wood material is hardwood the risk of spitting wood is increased. The wide head of the truss head helps reduce the stress concentration at a single point and evenly distributes the load/stress.

Self-Tapping Capabilities

Certain truss head variants have self-tapping threads These threads don't require any pre-drilled holes because they are made to drill their mating threads in softer materials like plastic or sheet metal.

Applications

Some of the most common uses of truss head screws are listed below.

Woodworks

Truss head fasteners help secure the furniture components, attach hinges, and join trim pieces.

Cabinetry

For fastening cabinet backs, drawer slides, and assembling RTA (Ready-To-Assemble) furniture.

Sheet Metal Applications

It is also used for joining light gauge sheet metal without creating a protruding head.

Appliance Repair

Truss head fasteners are best suited for fastening internal components within appliances where bigger screws can’t be used due to the limitations of space.

Conclusion

Both, pan head and truss head screw have their advantages and shortcomings. Based on your need choose the truss head screws for a neat, clean flush finish with uniform clamping force and constrained space. They are skilled in light gauge sheet metal applications, cabinetry, and carpentry. While, Pan Head Screws are the best option for applications that prioritise ease of driving, a secure grip for the screwdriver, and a low-profile (but not flush) finish. These screws are versatile workhorses for metalworking, building, and other DIY tasks.

With expertise in manufacturing best-in-class screws, LP screw is the most trusted and reliable SS screw manufacturer brand in India. We produce stronger, durable, sharp, screws high in tensile strength, across industries, to help maximize performance. Visit our website and become a dealer today.