When someone asks for the star screwdriver, do you correct them with its proper name? Or do you also refer to it as a star screwdriver? A star-shaped screwdriver is a handheld tool that features a star-shaped, six-sided bit. It works with star screws sized to match the screwdriver’s corresponding bit. It provides the right amount of torque for any project and prevents camming out.
Camming out is when the head of the screwdriver slips out of the head of the screw. It happens when a certain amount of torque is reached, and though it’s annoying, it does serve a purpose. The forced cam-out is said to prevent over-tightening.
For example, the Phillips head was designed to occasionally, intentionally cam-out. On the one hand, it can prevent screw head damage. It will also cam out when the user reaches maximum torque between the object and the screw. The consequence of this is it can strip the head and make it a challenge to remove further down the line. This is a greater risk when using a power drill, but even by hand, you may notice that additional torque strips the head.
The Torx™
The star screwdriver was invented in the 1960s by Bernard Reiland, of the Textron company, as an improvement on the hex screw. Textron worked in aviation, automotive, and software. The star screwdriver was patented as a Torx™ screwdriver because of its perfect torque without the risk of cam-out. The majority of people simply call it a star screwdriver because that is precisely what it looks like.
The Torx™ screwdriver has a unique design and comes in a variety of sizes. The size is always designated by a letter followed by a number. It’s a T letter designation, for Torx™, and the larger the number the larger the screwdriver. They also come in different shapes, from the regular straight Torx™ screwdriver to keys, L keys and screw bits.
There are also variations on the Torx™, including the Security Torx™, Torx™ Plus, and the TTap. These are useful for security applications but are uncommon. The Security Torx™ features a small hole in the end. They were specifically designed to use in functions where a manufacturer doesn’t want someone to remove or adjust the screw. This is commonly applied in situations where the manufacturer doesn’t want just anyone repairing, maintaining or fixing their own equipment or appliances.
The product is licensed, which means that no other manufacturer can produce a Torx screwdriver, they can produce star-shaped screwdrivers and bits, but they need to meet the Torx™ licensed specifications and prints.
In addition to the cam out prevention, it will provide the right amount of torque consistently until it reaches maximum torque. Its original use was precision work for avionics controls and computer equipment. It was eventually popularised in the construction and automotive industries.
Shop Screwdrivers
There is a wide range of screwdrivers available on the market, whether you are looking for the perfect torque of the Torx™, a standard flathead, or a full set.
Finding the right tools are essential to getting the job done right and you can be sure to find the right one for you at RS Components.
