What Are Torx Screws? And How Do You Screw Them In?

Those who work in the world of mechanics know well the variety of screws, bolts and bolts that can be used to fix different parts. Today, we want to present a model that can make a difference in your daily work: Torx screws.

These solutions are recognized by the classic star shape different from Phillips models with 4 points. And you won't be able to unscrew or screw in Torx screws without a specific screwdriver or insert. But it's clear that this solution can make a difference if you use it correctly. Want to delve deeper? Here's a small guide to get familiar and choose the right inserts for screwdrivers.

What are Torx model screws?

Often mistakenly confused as simple star screws, Torx are a type of bolt that features a six-pointed profile that requires a specific screwdriver or insert that bears the same name. Which comes from the fusion of two basic concepts:

• Torque: torque, the mechanical moment.
• X: refers to the design of the screw.

These screws were studied and marketed in the 1960s by the American company Camcar Textron, which was later acquired by Acument Global Technologies. The goal was to improve the efficiency of traditional screws and reduce the classic problems related to cross and slot models. Which primarily concern safety and performance.

How is a Torx-shaped screw made?

The design of screws known as Torx you recognize from the fact that it has a recess with six points and not four. This solution can be applied both to normal screws with flat countersink head, and to bolts with domed end or cylindrical shape.

The recess of Torx screws with six-pointed shape (also known as flower) offers a large contact surface between the screw head and the tool. The thread can be both coarse pitch for working on wood or plastic, and fine pitch for metal.

As for dimensions, we can say that there are Torx screws suitable for any application in terms of length and diameter. Obviously within the classic limits. For the material of realization, we have solutions suitable for every purpose.

The stainless steel models are used for the most demanding applications in terms of corrosion resistance, those in carbon steel are often treated with galvanizing and nickel plating to protect the metal from rust and corrosion.

Other models of Torx screws are those made of titanium alloys. On the other hand, it makes sense to use these options in sectors where high performance is required, such as in the automotive and aerospace industries, where lightweight and resistant materials rule.

What are the substantial advantages?

The essential point of strength of Torx model screws is the efficiency in terms of tightening. This model, in fact, reduces the risk of slipping (known as cam-out) which often occurs with screws that have traditional slot or cross imprints.

Furthermore, the design of this solution allows for uniform torque distribution, reducing the risk of damaging the head and the tool. Therefore, this system is useful in applications that require a high degree of precision and torque.

How to screw and unscrew these screws?

The procedure is similar to many other systems, the only difference is the need to use Torx screwdrivers, wrenches and inserts. In this case, you can consider LTI sockets and accessories that also include these specific models.

There are different models of Torx screws, for example you can use those with central pin that require specific keys. These solutions are known as Security Torx, Tamper-Resistant Torx (abbreviated as Torx TR) or pin-in Torx. The substantial advantage is that these screws cannot be unscrewed unless one has those specific keys, so they are tamper-proof.