Self Tapping Screws to Steel
Self Tapping Screws to Steel
(OP)
A project is underway and I was told to look at the handrail connections way too late. Like its being built right now.
One of the connections has the handrail terminating at a 6" tube column and calls for a Hollander bracket to be bolted to the column. The detail doesn't show the bolts going all the way through and they don't want them to be bolted through. A bolt won't work here since nothing would stop it from pulling out.
I don't know much about self-tapping screws into steel other than cold form sections. I did a little research but can't find any 3/8" diameter stainless steel self tappers. Drill-Flex goes up to 5/16".
I don't know the tube column thickness, but they have very little load so its safe to assume they are 1/8" thick.
Is there any other type of screw/fastener that can make this connection other than bolting through?
Thanks.
One of the connections has the handrail terminating at a 6" tube column and calls for a Hollander bracket to be bolted to the column. The detail doesn't show the bolts going all the way through and they don't want them to be bolted through. A bolt won't work here since nothing would stop it from pulling out.
I don't know much about self-tapping screws into steel other than cold form sections. I did a little research but can't find any 3/8" diameter stainless steel self tappers. Drill-Flex goes up to 5/16".
I don't know the tube column thickness, but they have very little load so its safe to assume they are 1/8" thick.
Is there any other type of screw/fastener that can make this connection other than bolting through?
Thanks.






RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
I can't find 3/8" diameter self tapping steel screws.
I'm checking Hollo Bolts now. Thanks!
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
Depending on your location, consider the availability/lead time of the Hollow bolts. Rumor has it this stuff is being built as we type...
I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
Yeah I noticed they are quite a bit away, started looking for wedge anchors for steel that are closer.
I mean I'd prefer self tapping stainless, but I can't seem to find 3/8" ones. I'm just going to call the contractor and see what he had in mind or what he has used in the past on HSS sections. I'm not in a big metropolitan area, so material selection is limited if you need it quick.
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
@Brad: I've always been shy about specifying tapping because I don't know much about it and I've been worried about cost. It's a relief to hear that it's not a big deal. Would you mind elaborating a bit regarding the equipment, skill sets, and man-hours required to do some localized tapping?
I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
http://www.dx.com/p/wlxy-wl-6520-tap-and-die-set-2...
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
There are 3/8" self drilling screws out there....plenty of them. A couple of links.....
American Fastener
Fastenal
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
Koot, Canadian Tire is where my tap set came from.
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel
RE: Self Tapping Screws to Steel