In the screw specification "3mm x 0.5," what does the "0.5" represent?

The specification "3mm x 0.5" indicates certain characteristics of the screw, with the "3mm" corresponding to the screw's diameter and the "0.5" relating to its thread pitch. The thread pitch is the distance between threads measured in millimeters. In this case, a thread pitch of 0.5 mm means that for every full turn of the screw, it will advance 0.5 mm along its length. This measurement is crucial for ensuring that the screw fits properly with the material it is intended to fasten, as different thread pitches can affect how snugly the screw holds. Understanding thread pitch is essential in applications requiring precise fitting and strength, ensuring that the components being joined do so securely.

Knowing how thread pitch affects performance helps in troubleshooting potential issues with mismatched components or inadequate fastening.