Bugle head screw
A bugle head screw is a type of fastener specifically designed for drywall applications and woodworking. It features a countersunk head with a flat top and a concave under-head bearing surface 15. This unique design allows the screw to sit flush with the material's surface while distributing the bearing stress over a wider area than a flat head screw 1.
The invention of the bugle head screw is not attributed to a single person, as it evolved from earlier screw designs. However, some key developments in screw technology led to its creation:
In 1933, Henry Phillips patented the Phillips head screw, which featured a cross-recessed design that improved upon earlier slotted screws 4.
In the 1950s, the U.S. Gypsum Corporation team, led by Paul Quigg, perfected the drywall screw, which was a precursor to the bugle head screw 8.
The bugle head screw was developed to address specific needs in construction and woodworking:
Reduced material damage: The trumpet-shaped head design effectively disperses pressure, minimizing damage to materials like drywall and wood 3.
Easy installation: The design eliminates the need for pre-drilling countersinking holes, saving time and effort during installation 15.
Strong fixing force: Bugle head screws provide a secure connection, ensuring stability in various applications 3.
Versatility: They are suitable for use with drywall, wood, and other lightweight materials, making them ideal for a wide range of construction and woodworking projects 3.
The development of the bugle head screw was driven by the need for faster, more efficient installation methods and improved holding power in different materials, particularly in the rapidly growing drywall industry following World War II.
