Metallics JSTSP34 12 x 2 in. Pan Head Phillips Tapping Screws - 18-8 Stainless - Each

The Metallics JSTSP34 is a Type A tapping screw with a gimlet point, so it starts in thin sheet metal and soft materials on its own. Type A is a coarse 11 threads per inch, which is what clears chips in sheet stock. In thicker gauge steel you still want a pilot hole sized to the thread root, otherwise you risk snapping it - torsional strength is rated at 83 lb-in minimum.

You can, but watch the dissimilar metal contact. Fastening 18-8 stainless parts to aluminum or steel can set up a galvanic couple and corrode in some environments, particularly anything wet, coastal, or chemically exposed. For dry interior electrical work it is a non-issue; outdoors against aluminum, isolate the joint or use a matched-metal fastener.

No. The #12 x 2 in. stainless tapping screw is not Buy American compliant and is not ARRA compliant, with multiple countries of origin. If your contract carries domestic sourcing language, this part will not clear it.

A #3 Phillips bit. The recess runs 0.246 to 0.259 in. diameter and 0.141 in. deep, which is bigger than the #2 most crews keep in the pouch. Using a #2 in it will cam out and chew the recess, and 18-8 stainless galls easily once the recess is damaged.

It ships as a jar of 100. Order minimum is 100 pieces, packed in a jar, and the packed jar weighs 1.68 lbs. Other sizes and quantities are available by request.

Yes. Head dimensions follow ASME B18.6.3-2013 and the thread form follows ASME B18.6.4, the tapping screw standard. That pair of callouts is what a submittal reviewer looks for on a #12 pan head Type A screw.

It is spec'd for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work. The 2 in. length is for going through layered material - mounting a box or strap through furring, insulation, or duct board into sheet metal behind it. For simple box-to-stud or panel work, a shorter length in the same JSTSP series does the job without the extra point sticking through.