National Screw Day

A person using a power drill to screw in a screw in a well-organized workshop, with tools hanging on the wall and a pegboard.. — National screw day illustration

Ah, National Screw Day, a day to celebrate the wonders of screws and all the screwing that goes on in our lives. Whether it's putting together furniture or fixing a loose bolt, screws are essential in our everyday lives. So sit back, relax, and let's dive into the fascinating history of this quirky celebration!

When is Screw Day?

It's national screw day on the 27th June.

The Origins of National Screw Day

Believe it or not, National Screw Day doesn't actually have its roots in hardware stores or household fix-it projects. No, it all began on the internet (like most awesomely random things) back on June 27, 2015. People decided to celebrate the humble screw by sharing funny anecdotes, pictures, and even videos about the wonders of screwing.

The online celebration quickly gained traction, and before you knew it, National Screw Day became a viral sensation. People from all walks of life embraced this day as an opportunity to let loose, get a little silly, and embrace the joy of screwing things together.

How to Celebrate National Screw Day

So, how can you join in the fun of National Screw Day? Well, the options are endless! You can take on a DIY project and embrace the satisfaction of putting things together with your trusty screwdriver. Or perhaps you can share a funny screw-related meme with your loved ones and spread some laughter.

If you're feeling extra adventurous, you could even organize a screw-related sports event. Hey, it's a great way to combine athleticism with the spirit of National Screw Day. Just imagine the fun of a screwdriver relay race or a screw-throwing competition!

Remember, National Screw Day is all about fun and lightheartedness. So whether you're fixing a wobbly chair or simply posting a cheesy screw pun on social media, embrace the silliness and let the screwing festivities begin!

History behind the term 'Screw'

1580

The Invention of the Screw

The term 'screw' dates back to the year 1580 when it was originally used to refer to a simple mechanical device with a spiral grooved surface. This early version of the screw was primarily employed for fastening objects together using rotational motion. The invention of the screw brought about a revolution in engineering as it provided a secure means of joining materials.

1770

Industrial Revolution and Mass Production

During the Industrial Revolution in the late 18th century, the manufacturing process for screws underwent a significant transformation. In the year 1770, British inventor Matthew Boulton developed a screw-making machine capable of producing large quantities of standardized screws. This innovation revolutionized industries such as shipbuilding, furniture making, and construction by enabling mass production of screws and facilitating the assembly of complex structures.

1841

Screw Threads Standardization

The year 1841 marked an important milestone in the history of screws with the introduction of standardized screw threads. Sir Joseph Whitworth, an English mechanical engineer, proposed a set of standard measurements for screw threads, including the pitch and diameter. This standardization brought uniformity to the screw manufacturing process, making it easier for different components to fit together seamlessly. Whitworth's contributions significantly enhanced the interchangeability of screws and bolstered industrial efficiency.

1928

Phillips Screw and the Modern Assembly Line

In 1928, American engineer Henry F. Phillips revolutionized the screw industry by inventing the Phillips Screw. This innovative screw featured a cross-shaped recess, enabling efficient usage with a corresponding driver bit. The introduction of the Phillips Screw not only improved the ease and speed of assembly but also reduced instances of cam-out (slippage) during tightening. As a result, the Phillips Screw became widely adopted in the manufacturing industry, especially in automobile production and consumer electronics assembly lines.

1960s

Screwdriver Evolution and Specialized Screws

During the 1960s, the development of power tools and new materials led to the evolution of screw types and driver designs. Torx and Allen (hex) screws gained prominence due to their ability to withstand higher torque and provide more precise control during assembly. These specialized screws facilitated the assembly of intricate machinery and delicate electronic devices. Additionally, the advent of cordless electric screwdrivers made household tasks more accessible, allowing people to handle various DIY projects with ease.

Did you know?

Did you know that the first screws were believed to be invented by the ancient Greeks? They used wooden screws to press grapes for winemaking. Talk about a twist in history!