The screwdriver and drive bit are the key components in the mechanical coupling and provide the connection between the machine or hand and the screw. Choosing the right equipment for the right application has a huge impact on the work results. Wera Werkzeuge GmbH explains here the different types available.

The five most common drive profiles are slotted, Phillips, Pozidriv, TORX® and hexagonal.

Slotted drives have a simple slot as the host of the blade, but their disadvantage is the lack of alignment-which makes it easy for the tool to slide out of the screw. The screwdriver tip "Lasertip" from Wera literally bites into the screw without damaging it, eliminating this shortcoming.

The second common drive profile is Phillips defined by the cross-section of two rectangular slots. Compared with the classic form of the slot version, the interaction with the screws is very easy due to the four corners of the Phillips profile. However, even in this profile, the user must counteract the cam force. Once again, a Lasertip screwdriver can be used here. Phillips profiles are often confused with Pozidriv profiles, and incorrect use can cause damage to tools and screws.

Pozidriv profile is the third common drive profile, a further development of crosshead profile. Two extra crosses provide extra stability during tightening. Although this is an improvement, the Pozidriv profile still struggles with the sliding problem.

Another common profile is TORX®-a star-shaped wave profile with six circular cams. Compared with traditional screw profiles, when using TORX, more torque can be transmitted without damaging the screwdriver and screws. The longer service life of screwdrivers and screws is due to lower radial forces. These are given by parallel forms without edges and six contour elements.

Finally, the hexagon is one of the most famous and widely used profiles, and for sockets, there is no other choice. For power transmission, this is a relatively unfavorable constellation, because the stress concentration is very high, which will cause the screw to deform. Wera Hex-Plus provides a larger contact area in the screw head, thereby minimizing the notch effect and protecting the profile.

Like profiles, common drill bits used in the fastener industry include impact drill bits, stainless steel drill bits, and BiTorsion drill bits. Impaktor drill bits are very suitable for use with power tools that provide high strength and high torque. It is important that the drill bit does not break, so the solution is to maximize the use of material properties. These drills are designed with special geometric shapes to meet extreme requirements. The special manufacturing process provides an above-average service life.

Wera's stainless steel drill bits are also available, which are very suitable for working on stainless steel surfaces because the smallest rust can jump to the stainless steel surface. 

Finally, the BiTorsion bit has a softer BiTorsion area, Wera points out, this reduces the stiffness of the shaft by approximately 20% compared to the drive tip. This means that the peak loads that cause bit breakage and premature wear are absorbed in this area-significantly increasing the life of the bit.

The choice of screwdriver depends on the work to be done. If a screwdriver is sometimes used for drilling holes, a heavy-duty chisel with a "pound through" blade should be used. For work with small screws, Wera's micro screwdriver is recommended. When working under tension, use a VDE screwdriver (identifiable by red and yellow).

Screwdrivers often cause calluses, so it is important to ensure that ergonomic handles (such as those on Wera's Kraftform Plus) are used in normal applications. The handle is modeled after the shape of a human hand to ensure maximum user comfort.

Claire joined the magazine in 2012 and developed her industry knowledge through numerous company visits, exhibitions and conferences she participated in in the UK and abroad.

Claire is proud to keep readers up to date with the latest industry news.

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