Which type of screw is typically used to secure components to a shaft?

The type of screw typically used to secure components to a shaft is the set screw. Set screws are specifically designed to hold objects in place by preventing axial movement. They are usually characterized by their lack of a head or a shallow head, which allows them to sit flush with the surface of the component or the shaft. This design enables set screws to press against the shaft, providing a stable grip without protruding parts that could interfere with other components. Set screws are often used in applications such as securing pulleys, gears, or couplings on shafts where reliable and permanent fastening is essential.

The other types of screws mentioned serve different functions and are not suitable for this specific application. Machine screws are used to fasten two or more parts together, usually in conjunction with a nut or tapped hole, while wood screws are designed for fastening wood and typically feature a sharp point and coarse threads for better grip in wood. Self-tapping screws create their own thread when driven into material, and are primarily used in applications where a pre-drilled hole may not be available, which makes them less ideal for securely anchoring components to a precise location on a shaft.