Intro:

A broken screw can be a frustrating issue to deal with. Stripped or damaged screw heads can make it difficult to remove them from an object. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can safely remove a broken screw without causing any further damage. In this article, we will guide you through the steps on how to remove a broken screw.

Step 1: Assess the Situation

Start by figuring out the type of material the screw is lodged in and determine if it is essential to preserve the integrity of the surrounding material.

Step 2: Gather the Necessary Tools

Gather tools such as needle-nose pliers, a flat head screwdriver, hammer, left-hand drill bits, and a center punch.

Step 3: Use Needle-Nose Pliers

If the screw is protruding slightly, use needle-nose pliers to grip it and turn counter-clockwise to remove it.

Step 4: Create a Guide Hole for Drilling

Place a center punch on the broken screw’s center, tap lightly with a hammer to create an indentation. This will act as a guide hole for your drill bit.

Step 5: Select the Proper Drill Bit

Choose a left-hand drill bit of appropriate size for creating a hole in the center of the broken screw.

Step 6: Drill Into The Screw

Set your drill to reverse and gently drill into the broken screw. The left-handed bit will help in backing out the screw.

Step 7: Apply Penetrating Oil

If you’re having difficulty removing the screw, apply penetrating oil around its base and let it soak for several minutes. This helps in loosening any rust or debris that might be holding it in place.

Step 8: Use a Screw Extractor

Choose a screw extractor that matches your drill hole size. Insert the extractor into the hole, tapping it lightly with a hammer if necessary.

Step 9: Turn the Screw Extractor Counter-Clockwise

Attach a wrench or tap handle to the screw extractor and turn it counter-clockwise. As you apply pressure, the extractor’s grip will increase, helping to remove the broken screw.

Step 10: Proceed with Caution

Be careful not to apply too much force as you might damage the extractor or surrounding material.

Step 11: Clean the Area

Once the broken screw is removed, clean up any metal shavings using a vacuum or brush.

Conclusion:

Removing a broken screw may seem like a daunting task, but following these steps will make it manageable. With patience and proper technique, you will successfully remove those stubborn broken screws without causing further harm to your objects.