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Manufacturer Resources
Product Specs
- Division:
- Electrical H1
- Product Group:
- Fasteners
- Sub Division:
- Electrical-E H2
- Department:
- Electrical
- Product Subgroup:
- Screws
Metallics TP144SBC – Frequently Asked Questions
1) What thread size and length is the Metallics TP144SBC tamper-resistant screw?
The TP144SBC is a 1/2-13 x 3 inch screw, so it's a 1/2 inch diameter machine thread at 13 threads per inch with a 3 inch length. The 1/2-13 designation is standard UNC coarse thread, so it mates with any 1/2-13 tapped hole or nut.
2) What driver do I need for a button head hex pin screw like the TP144SBC?
It takes a pin-in-hex (hex pin) security bit, not a plain Allen key. The button head on the TP144SBC has a hex socket with a pin standing in the center, so a standard hex wrench bottoms out on the pin and won't seat. You need the matching pin-hex bit sized for a 1/2 inch diameter screw's socket, which has a hole drilled down the center of the hex flats.
3) Why would I spec a hex pin screw instead of a regular button head cap screw?
Tamper resistance. A hex pin (TR) fastener like the TP144SBC can't be backed out with the Allen keys and hex bits on a standard driver set, which is why it gets used on electrical enclosures, panel covers, exterior fixtures, transit and public-area hardware, and anywhere a cover should only come off with the right tool. If nobody is trying to get into the assembly, a plain socket cap or hex head screw is cheaper to drive and the bits are everywhere.
4) Will the button head on this screw sit flush in a countersunk hole?
No. Button head is a low, domed head that seats on the surface of the material, not a flat countersunk head. If your plate or cover is countersunk for a flush finish, the TP144SBC will stand proud of it; for a flush tamper-resistant joint you want a flat head pin-hex screw instead.
5) Is the TP144SBC a machine screw thread or a self-tapping screw?
It's a machine thread fastener, not self-tapping. The 1/2-13 thread needs a tapped hole or a nut to pull against, so plan on a 1/2-13 tapped boss, a nut, or a threaded insert in the receiving part. It will not cut its own thread in sheet metal.
6) How many screws come in a box of Metallics TP144SBC?
Each box holds 100 pieces of the 1/2-13 x 3 button head hex pin screw. That's the order unit, so a job needing 250 fasteners takes three boxes.
How fast can I get the Metallics TP144SBC delivered?
Most orders ship the same day from our distribution partners, with quick delivery throughout the
continental
U.S.
Need it urgently? Contact Us for expedited shipping options.
Can I return it if it doesn’t work for me?
Yes—ZenSupply offers a hassle-free return policy. If the product isn’t the right fit,
reach out to our support team for a return authorization or setup a return by following our return instructions.
Does the Metallics TP144SBC come with a warranty?
Absolutely. The Metallics TP144SBC is backed by a manufacturer’s warranty.
For full warranty terms, check the product documentation or Contact Us.
How do I get technical support or installation help for the Metallics TP144SBC?
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installation tips, and troubleshooting. Contact Us
Why buy the Metallics TP144SBC from ZenSupply?
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