Metallics JTS19 8 x 5/8 in. Pan Head Phillips Sharp Point Tapping Screws - Steel Zinc - Each

No pilot hole is needed in thin sheet material. The JTS19 is a Type A tapping screw with a gimlet (sharp) point and 15 threads per inch, so it pierces and forms its own thread in sheet metal, electrical box ears, and similar light-gauge work. In heavier stock a pilot still helps avoid snapping the screw.

No. The JTS19 is not Buy American compliant and not ARRA compliant, with country of origin listed as multiple. For a job with domestic sourcing requirements you will need a fastener carrying a documented domestic origin.

A #2 Phillips is the correct driver for the JTS19. The recess is 0.169 to 0.182 inch in diameter, 0.108 inch deep, with a 0.03 inch recess width, so a #1 will cam out and a #3 will not seat. Keep the driver square and let the gimlet point start the hole.

The pan head sits 0.105 to 0.115 inch tall and measures 0.306 to 0.322 inch across. That low profile is why pan head works inside device boxes and behind cover plates where a round or truss head would interfere. The head geometry follows ASME B18.6.3-2013.

These are carbon steel with a zinc finish, made from AISI 1016 to 1024 steel. Zinc plating handles dry interior and protected work. For sustained wet exposure, coastal air, or direct ground contact, specify stainless or hot dip galvanized instead; zinc plate will eventually rust through in those conditions.

They ship in a jar of 100, which is the order minimum. Packed weight is 0.41 lbs. Metallics does make other sizes and quantities of the JTS series available by request.

Metallics lists the JTS series for electrical, plumbing, and heating and air conditioning work. In practice that means hanging straps and clamps, fastening sheet metal duct and plenum accessories, mounting plates and brackets to light-gauge steel, and securing fittings inside device boxes. The thread conforms to ASME B18.6.4, so it mates with standard tapping screw clearance holes.