Captive Screws

What are captive screws?

Captive screws are designed to remain fixed within a panel or component, even when unscrewed. They feature an unthreaded section below the head, known as a reduced shank, which prevents the screw from falling free when loosened.

Available in various head styles including cap, pan, button, and countersunk, captive screws provide a secure fastening solution solution for equipment that requires repeated access while eliminating the risk of misplaced fasteners.

How do captive screws work?

Unlike a standard screw that is completely removed from an assembly, a captive screw remains retained within the panel after being loosened.

The reduced shank allows the screw to rotate freely once released while preventing it from being removed completely. This helps minimise the risk of lost fasteners and improves maintenance efficiency where equipment requires regular servicing.

How to install captive screws 

Captive screws are typically installed into a prepared panel or component using the appropriate fixing method for the application.

The screw is retained within the panel during assembly, allowing it to remain permanently attached while still providing access when required. The mating thread should be matched correctly to ensure a secure and reliable fastening.

Installation requirements may vary depending on the captive screw design and application.

What are the benefits of captive screws? 

Captive screws offer several advantages for equipment requiring regular access:

• Prevent screws from being lost during maintenance
• Reduce the risk of foreign object damage 
• Improve maintenance efficiency
• Help improve operator safety
• Keep panels and access covers securely attached during servicing
• Provide a reliable fastening solution for repeated assembly and maintenance

What thread sizes are available? 

Fastenright supplies captive screws in a range of metric and imperial thread sizes, including but not limited to:

• M1.6 to M16

Alongside standard products, bespoke thread sizes and made-to-drawing captive screws can be manufactured for specialist applications.

What material options are available?

Captive screws are available in a range of materials to suit different operating environments, including:

• Stainless steel
• Steel
• Titanium
• Aluminium

Non-standard materials and finishes can also be supplied for specialist applications.

Need help selecting captive screws?

Fastenright supplies standard and bespoke captive screws for manufacturers, OEMs, installers, and engineering businesses worldwide.

Alongside our stocked range, we manufacture captive screws in custom sizes, materials, and finishes to customer drawings, with bulk supply available for production and project requirements.

Contact us to discuss your requirements and to place an order.

Browse our full range of security fasteners to view related products, including security screws, security bolts, security nuts, and other tamper-resistant fastening solutions, or contact our technical team for advice on selecting the right captive screw for your application.