1. Exposed fracture: Directly clamp and remove.
If part of the screw still protrudes after breakage:
Use needle-nose pliers or diagonal pliers to clamp the edge of the fracture and slowly rotate counterclockwise to remove it.
If the fracture surface is relatively flat, use pliers to clamp and unscrew in the opposite direction. Be careful to apply even force to prevent slippage and injury.
2. Fracture flush with or below the surface: Use a special tool.
When the fracture is flush with the base surface:
Screw extractor (broken thread extractor): Drill a guide hole in the center of the fracture, screw in a left-hand extractor, and use the reverse thread to smoothly unscrew the broken screw.
Slotting method: Use an angle grinder or saw blade to cut a slot in the fracture, then use a flathead screwdriver and a wrench to unscrew in the opposite direction.
Welding method: Weld a nut or metal shank to the fracture, then unscrew with a wrench. Suitable for metal parts and situations with sufficient operating space.
3. Auxiliary Methods to Improve Success Rate
Lubricant Application: Apply WD-40, machine oil, or 502 glue around the break, let it sit for 10 minutes to soften the rust or strengthen the adhesion, aiding in loosening.
Heating Method: Locally heat the metal part, utilizing the principle of thermal expansion and contraction to loosen the broken nail, especially suitable for rusted and jammed situations.
4. Handling Extreme Cases
If the above methods are ineffective:
Drill the entire broken nail out with an electric drill, then clean the debris from the hole.
Then, depending on the needs, re-tap or install a wire thread insert to restore the connection function.
✅ Operational Recommendations: Prioritize methods that minimize damage to the threaded hole. Keep the tool vertical during operation to avoid eccentric force that could aggravate damage.
