A metal washer is MOST often used with which type of screw?

The use of a metal washer is most commonly associated with a machine screw because machine screws are designed to be used with nuts or in pre-tapped holes. When securing parts together, a washer provides several benefits: it distributes the load across a larger surface area, reduces friction, and helps prevent damage to the surface material being fastened. In applications involving machine screws, especially in metal on metal connections, washers help ensure a tight and stable fit.

In contrast, wood screws tend to create their own threads in the wood, minimizing the need for a washer. Self-tapping screws also cut their own threads into the material, and while they can be used with washers, it’s less frequent compared to machine screws. Sheet metal screws are typically used in thin sheet metal and do not require washers as the screws are designed to grip securely without additional components. Therefore, while washers can be used with various types of screws, their most common application aligns with machine screws due to the nature of their use in mechanical assemblies.