Metallics TSP18M 8 x 1 in. Pan Head Phillips Sharp Point Tapping Screws - Steel Zinc - Each

Not in thin sheet metal. The TSP18M is a Type A tapping screw with a gimlet (sharp) point, so it pierces and forms its own thread in light-gauge steel, sheet metal boxes and similar thin stock. In heavier gauge or structural steel you still want a pilot hole, because a Type A thread is a coarse 15 threads per inch spaced thread meant for thin material, not for thick plate.

It stands proud. A pan head is a non-countersunk head, so the TSP18M sits on the surface with a head roughly 0.306 to 0.322 inch across and 0.105 to 0.115 inch tall. If you need the fastener flush with the panel face, you need a flat (countersunk) head screw and a countersunk or dimpled hole instead.

No. The TSP18M is listed as not Buy American compliant and not ARRA compliant, with multiple countries of origin. If your contract carries a domestic-sourcing clause, these screws will not satisfy it.

A #2 Phillips bit. The TSP18M has a Phillips recess about 0.169 to 0.182 inch across and 0.108 inch deep, which is the standard #2 pocket, so a worn or undersized bit will cam out before you reach the 39 lb-in minimum torsional strength of the screw.

These are carbon steel with a zinc plating, made from AISI 1016 to 1024 steel. Zinc plate handles indoor and protected conditions well, but it is a thin sacrificial coating rather than hot-dip galvanizing or stainless, so for exposed exterior, coastal or wet locations choose a stainless or hot-dip screw instead.

They ship in a jar, and the order minimum is 1,000 pieces. So this is a bulk-count buy for a shop or MRO stockroom rather than a handful of screws.