A straightforward method to remove a plastic screw, especially if it's damaged or lacks a proper slot, involves carefully using heat to create a new slot for a screwdriver.
Utilizing Heat to Create a Screwdriver Slot
One practical technique involves heating a metal screwdriver and using it to reshape the plastic screw head. This creates a custom slot that fits the screwdriver, allowing you to unscrew it.
The Heat-and-Melt Technique
This method relies on the thermoplastic nature of many plastics, which soften when heated. By using a heated screwdriver, you can essentially mold a usable slot directly into the top of the plastic screw.
Here's how you can apply this technique based on the provided insight:
- Step 1: Heat the Screwdriver.
- You could just heat up a small screwdriver (a regular straight sort) so it melts into the plastic and makes a slot. Use a heat source to warm the tip of a small, straight screwdriver. Be cautious and avoid overheating to prevent damage to surrounding materials.
- Step 2: Melt into the Plastic.
- Carefully press the heated tip of the screwdriver into the center of the plastic screw head. Apply gentle pressure as the heat softens the plastic, allowing the screwdriver to melt into place and create a slot shape.
- Step 3: Allow to Cool and Set.
- Remove it till it cools then put it back in and unscrew the plastic.
- Wait for it to melt into place and pour a bit of cold water on it to cool so it sets, then unscrew.
- There are two suggested approaches here:
- Option A: Remove the screwdriver and wait for the melted plastic around the newly formed slot to cool and harden.
- Option B: While the screwdriver is still in the melted plastic, pour a small amount of cold water onto the screw head. This rapidly cools the plastic, causing it to set around the screwdriver tip.
- Step 4: Unscrew.
- Once the plastic has cooled and set firmly around the screwdriver tip (whether you waited for air cooling or used water), you should have a stable connection.
- Put the screwdriver back into the newly formed slot (if you removed it) or use the screwdriver that was cooled in place.
- Gently apply rotational force to unscrew and remove the plastic screw.
This method is particularly useful for plastic screws that are stripped or have unusual heads where standard tools don't work effectively.
