SPRING 2022

30
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Bruno Marbacher
Dear Reader - Tamper proof screws are meant to
be difficult or impossible to remove. They are intended
to prevent unauthorized removal or tampering. In this
article, we cover the usual types and how they work.
We do not advertise ways to tamper or remove tamper
resistant screws.
The use of tamper proof screws has increased in
recent years to prevent theft, interference, and block
access to the working parts of cell phones and other
electronic gadgets.
Bruno Marbacher earned his mechanical engineering degree in Switzerland, he also holds a
business degree. He started out as a tool and die maker (poly-mechanic) and over the years he
has held various management positions in quality and engineering. During his time in America
he has developed and given numerous seminars on topics related to the proper use of mechanical
fasteners and machine elements, and assists engineers in solving fastening/assembly issues. His
has groomed and directed many young engineers in fastening/assembly technology. He now
offers his 40 years of experience through writing and lecturing.
DRIVING SYSTEMS FOR FASTENERS –
TAMPERPROOF DRIVES
What Are Security Screws And
Fasteners Used For?
Security screws and tamperproof fastenings deliver
practical, low-cost protection for a wide range of items
from safety railings to park benches and access hatches
…and much more. They provide a simple way to deter
thieves and vandals.
When selecting a tamper proof screw there are
several factors to consider such as:
¤ The level of security required
¤ Does the screw need to be removed at any time?
¤ Is a high tightening torque required?
¤ Is the aesthetic appearance important?
¤ Is It merely to discourage a prank or vandalism?
¤ Does it need to protect high critical, sensitive or
high voltage equipment
Standard tamper proof screws are just that – they
are highly resistant to tampering but a really determined
person may be able to remove them. As mentioned
above, we do not publish ways to tamper or remove
TECHNICAL ARTICLE
tamper resistant screws, we merely address ways as to
how to make tampering even more challenging. A heattreated
screw or screws with an inserted heat-treated
pin is extremely difficult to remove. If that screw is
recessed (the deeper, the better), the head cannot be
“manipulated”, so the security is even more enhanced.
The term manipulating refers to processes such as
filing, sawing, drilling, milling etc., The shape of the
head is also critical, cylindrical heads may be loosened
with plyers if enough force can be applied. Truss head,
button heads make it much more complicated, if that
type of head is recessed tampering becomes extremely
difficult. Including a serration underneath the head or
applying a nylon locking batch increases the difficulty of
an unauthorized removing.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 110