What Are Captive Screws?
Captive screws are screws designed not to detach from a component even when unscrewed.
They are engineered to prevent the loss or confusion of parts that may occur when screws are removed, and are commonly used in electronic equipment cases, panels, aircraft interior panels, industrial machinery covers, and similar applications.
Captive screws feature a spring-loaded ball or plunger mechanism in the screw head, which applies a force to compress or extend, ensuring that the screw remains attached to the component even when loosened, preventing them from becoming detached.