Flanged Hexagon Head Self Tapping Screws Self tapping screws are normally used with sheet metal and plastics.As the name suggests, this type of screw taps its own thread as it is installed into a pre-drilled hole. This variant has a hexagon head with a flange, driven by a spanner or ratchet and socket. The flange under the head can negate the use of a washer and helps spread the load and protect the substrate surface.