When choosing self-tapping screws for cabinet panels (especially particleboard, medium-density fiberboard, solid wood particleboard, etc.), there are several key factors to consider to ensure a secure, durable and beautiful connection.

 

Screw Nail Diameter : 

The most commonly used diameters are 3.5mm, 4.0mm, and 4.5mm. 4.0mm is the most widely used general-purpose size, providing good strength and pullout resistance while being less likely to crack the panels. For locations with particularly high load-bearing requirements (such as wall cabinet installations), consider 4.5mm. 3.5mm is often used to secure thinner back panels or for lightweight connections.

 

Screw Nail Length:

.  Connecting two panels (such as a side panel and a top/bottom panel): The screw length should be approximately the thickness of panel 1 + the embedment depth of panel 2. Typically, the embedment depth should be at least 8-12mm. For example, to connect two 18mm panels, choose a screw length of 30mm, 35mm, or 40mm (18mm + 12mm = 30mm, plus a little extra for added safety).

 

.  Installing the Back Panel: The back panel typically snaps into a slot on the back of the cabinet or is screwed to the edge of the side/top/bottom panels. Screw lengths of 16mm, 20mm, or 25mm are sufficient to ensure they securely engage the side/top/bottom panels (typically 16-25mm thick) without penetrating the front of the back panel.

 

.  Installing hardware such as shelf supports, hinges, and rails: Select according to the hardware mounting hole requirements and the panel thickness. 16mm, 20mm, and 25mm are commonly used.

 

Screw Nail Head Type:

 

. Countersunk Head: This is the preferred and standard head type for cabinet installation. The screw head fully sinks into the panel surface or hardware hole, maintaining a smooth mounting surface, facilitating subsequent cladding, edge banding, and other component installation, while also maintaining a clean appearance.

 

. Round Head/Pan Head/Typo Head: These are rarely used for primary cabinet structural connections. They may be used for internal structural reinforcement or to secure certain hardware components where a countersunk head is not required. Countersunk screws require a countersunk hole (a tapered hole), which usually requires pre-drilling or has a self-drilling countersink feature.

 

Head Slot Type:

 

Phillips: Very common, but prone to slippage ("screw bit balding"), especially when applying high force on hardwood or high-density wood.

 

Torx/Star: Highly recommended! It transmits much more torque than the Phillips, and is less likely to slip or jump during tightening, significantly improving installation efficiency and reliability while reducing the risk of screw head damage. It's becoming increasingly popular among professional installers.

 

Pozidriv: Slightly better than the Phillips, but not as common in China as the Phillips and Torx slots.

 

Nail Tip:

 

Self-drilling tip: These screws have a special drill-like tip design that allows them to penetrate the surface of the panel (especially hard veneers or edge banding) and into the core without pre-drilling. This greatly simplifies the installation process and improves efficiency. For cabinet installation, self-drilling screws with a self-drilling tip are essential.

 

Surface Treatment (Rust Resistance):

 

Stainless steel: The best choice for Humid kitchen environment, especially 304 stainless steel. It offers excellent corrosion resistance, resists rust and discoloration, and has a long service life. While slightly more expensive, it's a worthwhile investment for long-term furniture like cabinets.

 

Galvanized Steel: 

. Regular galvanizing: Lower cost and offers some rust resistance, but it can still rust in humid or salty environments. It can be used for interior structures in dry areas.

 

. Colored galvanizing (e.g., yellow zinc, blue-white zinc, etc.): Offers superior rust resistance to standard galvanizing, offers a relatively high cost-effectiveness, and is a popular choice.