Why do you get screws with a flat head and a phillips top???

Answer 1

Flat headed screw where all that was available for removable fixings or temporary fixings, the problem with the flat screws is getting the screwdriver to fit the screw easily, which isn't always easy especially of you can't see the screw head, like in the back of a cupboard or underneath cars etc.

The Military decided to tackle the challenge for tightening/loosening screws easily without the need to see the screw head, that's why the Philips cross headed screws were invented. Once the screw head has been located you insert the screwdriver into the centre of the screw head and after a small amount of turning the screwdriver back and forth the cross of the screwdriver and screw heads line themselves perfectly.

Hope this helps?

Cheers

Answer 2

The flat head screw is used the place the screw head is seen for aesthetics. It creates a nicer profile and does not muddy up the symmetry of somewhat. Phillips are large because of the fact they're much less complicated to apply and grant extra torque as you suggested yet there is the subject of all those little x's to handle. If manufacturers plan on utilising plugs over screw heads then they use phillips.

Answer 3

Phillips screwheads were invented for machining purposes. The slightly rounded corners of the screwhead meant that under torque, the screwdriver would slip out of the screw, avoiding over-tightening.

Slots were an old design, and there is too much risk (particularly in machining terms) of the driver slipping out and causing damage to the surroundign material.

Answer 4

For a long shank screw you will get more torque with a flat head as long as the groove is deep enough and the screwdriver fits well
For shorter more repetitive screwing philips are better particularly with a motor drill. Beware trying to screw long shank cross heads without using a pilot hole because the head may strip under the torque

Answer 5

Socket headed screws, Philips, Pozidrive, Torx, etc., were invented when the electric screwdriver came on the market. If you have ever tried to use an electric screwdriver on a flat headed, slotted screw, you will understand why.

Answer 6

The Phillips screw drive has slightly rounded corners in the tool recess, and was designed so the driver will slip out, or cam out, under high torque to prevent over-tightening.

Answer 7

Because a man named Phillips thought of a better way.

Answer 8

To reinforce t 3h1's argument in my speakers the cones are secured with a five pointed star type screw and it is recommended tightening them ONCE a year so that was a few quid invested wisely.

Answer 9

More importantly, why is it when you need a phillips, you only ever find a flat head!!!!!

Answer 10

because that way the screwdriver companies can sell you 2 different products that both do the same thing.... must be a deal between the screw companies and the screwdriver manufacturers i say.