These are available in high grades of materials such as 12.9 steel from such companies as Challenge Europe. Their circular head design and internal hex drive makes them particularly suitable for use in products with counter bored holes providing a flush or sub-flush assembly. They are also suitable for the automated assembly environment.
Challenge Europe stockholding also encompasses closely related button head or dome head socket screws that feature a lower profile with smooth finish. This design gives more clearance in moving machinery, while being less vulnerable to interference, either to clothing or passing equipment – for example when used as floor fixings, where they greatly reduce trip hazards.
Related to socket screws and bolts is the socket head shoulder screw with its own plain shank,toling, which has a precision ground surface for exact location of components. Sometimes described as a 'dowel with a thread', the socket head shoulder screw is often used in tooling applications, as it has a lower clearance requirement, enabling positive location with a precise fit. The ground surface can often double as a bearing surface in low-stress applications.
