As the name suggests, security or tamper resistant screws are designed to tamper proof products making them resistant to theft, accidental damage or vandalism. The primary and distinguished design feature of security fasteners is their specialized drive systems that prohibit their removal using conventional tools. In fact, security fasteners can only be installed and removed with specifically designed and designated tools. In some cases both security/tamper resistant screws and nuts are designed to be attached and not removed at all (one way drives).
From electrical appliances to security systems, from locks and vaults to toys and child safety restraint systems; tamper resistant screws and nuts are used in a wide array of devices. With their ability to tamper proof the products, security screws and nuts greatly reduce possible hazards for the users as well as unauthorized invasion by outsiders or vandals. To put it another way, tamper resistant fasteners offer the key benefits of low risks of injury, theft, and equipment damage.
Common Types of Security Screw Drives
Hex Socket Head Recess With Pin: This is similar to a regular hex socket recess design. However, right in the center of the recess is an additional pin or tip which differentiates it from a basic design and also makes it necessary for its removing tool to have a designated slot for pin insertion. Thus removal of a hex socket head with pin security screw requires a modified hex (allen) key or bit which accepts the center pin in the tamper resistant hex socket drive.
Torx(r) Recess with Pin: The basic pattern of a regular torx with its six lobe geometry, resembling a star, is found on its tamper proof version as well. What makes it different and tamper resistant in nature is the small pin in the center of the recess. Despite its different types of applications, torx security fasteners are most commonly used in the electronic industry. There is also a 5-Lobe torx style available for even higher security.
Snake Eyes Spanner Drive: As the name indicates, this type of security fasteners has two holes on opposite ends around a screw head. Basically, it has two notches opposite each other, close to the inner circumference of the head. It is practically impossible to use any basic screw driver or similar tool to remove snake eyes tamper resistant screws.
One-Way Slot Drive: A tamper resistant drive designed in such a way that the screw can only be turned in one direction – tightened. They can be installed with a standard slot screwdriver. One-way screws are typically used where the screw is unlikely to be removed. They are difficult to remove with standard tools because the slot is designed to cause cam out when any amount of torque is applied in the direction to loosen the screw.
Security Screws are available in a Machine Screw style and Self Tapping / Wood Screw style. Most items are available in steel or stainless steel materials and inch and metric sizes.