When dimensioning a countersink, there are some critical measurements that influence the outcome of a countersink. When all of these aspects are not taken into consideration, the desired countersink can become nearly impossible to achieve. These are the measurements that are needed to produce the desired countersink:

• Countersink Hole diameter (for screw head)
• Angle of countersink
• Thru hole diameter (for screw thread)
• Material thickness
• Screw head weight

All the critical measurements above determine the countersink. The three most critical are the countersink hole diameter, the angle of the countersink, and the thru hole diameter. All three have to be exact in order to fit the desired screw. Taking a look below, if the thickness of the material were to increase, the other measurements would not produce the same countersink.

Countersink Dimensioning

There are various different screw heads which also need to be considered when dimensioning countersinks. For instance, below there are two different types of screws with different head weights.

Screw Heads Determine Countersink

The head weight of a screw is very important when dealing with a sheet metal that is thinner than the head weight of a flat screw. If the sheet is thinner, and a heavier head weight is used, it is very likely that the screw can penetrate through the countersink. This would require adjustments to the other critical measurements.

These are just a couple examples of how the five critical dimensions work together and how if either of the measurements were to change, it will influence the other critical measurements.

Being in the metal fabrication industry since 1956, we have come across all sorts of issues when it comes to miscalculating a countersink. Whether they are in a sheet metal part or a machined part, we have seen it all! If you are looking for a quality manufacturer for your sheet metal or machined parts, we provide turnkey metal fabrication including mechanical assembly and metal finishing. For more Mechanical Engineering tips and information, please visit Vista-Industrial.com. Or if you are interested in getting a quote for fabrication of your parts,