Metallics JSTSP15 8 x 1 in. Pan Head Phillips Tapping Screws - 18-8 Stainless - Each

The Metallics JSTSP15 is a Type A tapping screw with a gimlet point, which is the sharp, tapered point made for thin sheet metal and soft materials. It forms its own thread as it drives, so in light gauge sheet it starts without a separate tap. Thread pitch is 15 threads per inch to the ASME B18.6.4 thread standard, the coarse spacing Type A uses for sheet work. In heavier stock or hardwood, drill a pilot sized to the root of the thread to stay under the 39 lb-in minimum torsional strength.

You can, but watch the metals. Fastening 18-8 stainless parts to aluminum or steel can set up galvanic corrosion in some environments, which is a real concern in damp, coastal, or exterior locations. For dry interior electrical work the 18-8 stainless material is what you want for corrosion resistance; for a wet exterior aluminum enclosure, consider isolating the fastener or matching the base metal instead.

No. The JSTSP15 screws are not Buy American compliant and are not ARRA compliant, with multiple countries of origin. If your federal, state, or institutional contract carries a domestic sourcing clause, these will not satisfy it.

Torsional strength on the JSTSP15 is rated 39 lb-in minimum. That is the point to respect if you are driving with an impact or a high-torque drill: stainless is softer than hardened carbon steel screws and will twist off rather than strip the hole. Clutch down and finish by hand on anything tight.

A #2 driver is the specified size. The recess measures 0.169 to 0.182 in. in diameter, 0.108 in. deep, with a 0.030 in. slot width, so a #1 bit will cam out and a #3 will not seat. Keep a few #2 bits on the truck if you are running a full jar of 100.

They ship in a jar, with a minimum of 100 pieces per jar. If you need a different diameter, length, or count, other sizes and quantities can be had by request.