We’ve all been there—struggling to remove a stripped, broken, or rusted screw. Whether you’re working on a DIY project, repairing furniture, or tackling a more complex mechanical task, screw extraction is a crucial skill to have. Not only does it save you time, but it also helps avoid costly damage to your workpiece. In this blog, we’ll walk you through why screw extraction is necessary, common causes that require extraction, and how to use a screw extractor kit effectively.

Why is Screw Extraction Important and Necessary?

Screw extraction allows you to remove screws that are stripped, broken, or stuck—without causing further damage to the workpiece. Here’s why it’s essential:

1. Preserving the Threads: When you extract a screw correctly, you preserve the threads in the workpiece. This is especially important if you plan to reuse the same hole, as it ensures the new screw will go in smoothly and securely.
2. Preventing Additional Damage: Proper screw extraction helps avoid damaging the surrounding material, which could result in the need for costly repairs or even replacing the entire workpiece.
3. Cost-Effective: Rather than discarding the entire item or part due to a single stuck or broken screw, screw extraction allows you to salvage the workpiece and continue working—saving both time and money.
4. Versatility: Screw extractors come in various sizes, making them suitable for different types of fasteners. Whether you’re dealing with small screws or large ones, there’s an extractor kit for every job.

Common Causes of Stuck Screws That Require Extraction

Several factors can cause screws to become difficult to remove, making screw extraction necessary:

• Stripped Screw Heads: Over-tightening or using the wrong tool can strip the head of the screw, making it impossible to grip and turn.
• Broken Screws: Sometimes, screws break off flush with the surface, leaving no part exposed to grip onto.
• Over-tightened Screws: When a screw is tightened too much, it can be tough to remove. Attempting to force it out can damage the threads, worsen the problem, or even break the screw head entirely.

What We Offer – Screw Extractor Set (Part Number: 01800000)

We offer the Straight Fluted Extractor Set (Part Number: 01800000), designed to help you tackle these common screw problems. This set is perfect for removing broken studs ranging from 6mm to 12mm in diameter. It works by drilling into the broken stud and using the extractor to remove the remnants.

Step-by-Step Guide to Screw Extraction

If you find yourself dealing with a stuck screw, follow these simple steps to extract it successfully:

1. Check the Size of the Screw: Before you start, measure the diameter of the screw to determine which tools you need. Our handy size guide (see below) will help you choose the right center drill and extractor.
2. Drill a Pilot Hole: If the screw is broken off below the surface, drill a pilot hole to ensure the extractor fits snugly. Be sure to use the right drill guide to keep the hole centered.
3. Enlarge the Hole: Select the appropriate enlarging drill to open the hole slightly, leaving only a thin wall. This prepares the screw for extraction.
4. Drive the Extractor: Place the extractor into the hole and use the correct-sized nut. Turn the nut with a spanner to drive the extractor further in, loosening the screw.

Size Guide for Screw Extraction

Here’s a handy size guide to help you choose the right drill and extractor based on the diameter of the screw:

Screw Diameter	Centre Drill Size	Wrench Size	Extractor Number
6mm	4mm	4mm	1
8mm	4mm	5mm	2
10mm	5mm	6mm	3
12mm	5mm	7.5mm	4
14mm	6mm	8.5mm	5

Conclusion: Quick and Reliable Screw Extraction

A screw extractor kit is an invaluable tool for removing stripped, broken, or rusted screws with ease. Our kit, which includes sizes ranging from 6mm to 12mm, offers a quick and reliable solution for all your extraction needs. Plus, we provide a full range of spare parts for this set, so you can replace any lost or damaged components. Visit our website to find all the spare parts you need and make screw extraction a hassle-free