A vented socket head cap screw is a specialized type of fastener designed for specific applications where pressure differentials need to be equalized or where gases or fluids need to pass through the screw.
These screws typically feature a small vent hole drilled through the head of the screw. The vent hole allows for the passage of air or other substances, helping to equalize pressure or release trapped gases or fluids in the assembly. Vented socket head cap screws are often used in applications such as vacuum chambers, fluid systems, or environments where pressure differentials are critical to performance or safety.
The presence of the vent hole does not compromise the structural integrity or strength of the screw but provides an additional functionality for specific engineering needs.
Vented screws, also referred to as vacuum vented screws, are a type of fastener designed with a vented hole running along its axis. The purpose of the vent is to release gases or built-up pressure once the fastener is tightened and the system becomes closed.
Other Names:
Vacuum vented screws
hollow screws
Through-hole screws
Center-drilled screws
Gas-venting screws
Cross-vented screws
Outgassing screws
vented fasteners
Types of Vented Screws
There are many types of vented screws. Here is a list of the most common:
Vented Hex Head Set Screw
Vented Socket Button Screw
Vented Socket Screw
Vented 6-lobe Hexalobular Cap Screw
Vented Socket Countersunk Screw
Vented Socket Set Screw
Vented Socket Shoulder Screw
Vented Socket Screws
Vented socket screws are a specific type of vented screw which has a head with a hexagon internal socket that is torqued by a hexagon or allen wrench.
Here are its key characteristics:
Central vent hole: gas / pressure release
Socket head design: high torque applications
Dimensional precision
Cleanroom & vacuum compatible
Check out its parts below:
Industries & Applications
Explore some examples of applications and industries where vented socket screws made in exotic alloys are employed.
High and ultra-high vacuum systems in chemical industries employ vented screws in 316L stainless, Titanium, and Inconel 625 to minimize virtual leaks, withstand bake-out temperatures, and maintain vacuum integrity under thermal stress.
Aerospace Systems
Aircraft and spacecraft components rely on vented screws in Titanium, Inconel, A286, and Hastelloy to handle extreme conditions like vibration, temperature swings, and high-stress loads while maintaining gas venting properties.
Medical and Laboratory Equipment
Biocompatible and sterilization-resistant vented screws in medical and laboratory equipment are typically made from Titanium (Grade 2 or 5) and 316L stainless steel, ensuring resistance to corrosion, autoclaving, and chemical exposure in clean environments.
Cleanroom Assemblies
Cleanroom applications favor 316L stainless steel, Titanium, and occasionally Aluminum alloys (for weight-sensitive systems) to maintain ultra-low particle emission and resist aggressive cleaning agents and protocols.
Request a Quote
Nickel Systems has a large stock in various types of exotic alloy vented screws, especially vented socket screws. Begin your quote today.
Nickel Systems provides high quality exotic grade materials that hold up in the toughest, most severe heat and corrosive environments. With our large inventory of specialty fasteners in stock, we are always ready to answer the call to serve the most challenging applications.
Nickel Systems maintains an inventory of split lock washers in Hastelloy® (Alloys C276, C22, B2), Carpenter® 20 (Alloy 20), 18-8 and 316 Stainless. Current inventory includes 317L Stainless, K-Monel® (Alloy 500) and AL6XN®. Additionally, we can re-machine certain sizes to produce hi-collar lock washers for use with socket head cap screws.
