35 Different Types of Screws and Their Uses

Most people don’t realize just how many types of screws exist—there are actually 34 distinct kinds, each crafted with a specific purpose in mind. They’re not all interchangeable; every screw is designed to work best with certain materials or finishes. Choosing the wrong one might not just be inefficient it could seriously compromise your entire project.

That’s why it’s worth taking the time to understand the differences. Knowing which type of screw to use can save you from frustration, wasted materials, and avoidable mistakes.

In this guide, we break down the different types of screws, what they’re used for, and how to pick the right one. Whether you’re working on wood, metal, drywall, or something more specialized, there’s a screw that’s made for the job. Let’s get into it.

Types of screws

These are different types of screws:

1. Wood Screws
2. Machine Screws
3. Thread Cutting Machine Screws
4. Sheet Metal Screws
5. Self-Drilling Screws
6. Hex Bolts
7. Carriage Bolts
8. Lag Bolts
9. Socket Screws
10. Set Screws
11. Mating Screws
12. Flat Screws
13. Raised Screw
14. Bugle screws
15. Binding Screws
16. Domed Screw
17. Flange Screw
18. Truss Screw
19. Phillips screw
20. Eye bolts
21. J-bolts
22. U-bolts
23. Shoulder bolts
24. Elevator bolts
25. Sex bolts
26. Hanger bolts
27. Decking screws
28. Thread Rolling Screw
29. Weld screws
30. Raised or slotted cheese screws
31. Fillister head screws
32. Drywall screws
33. Self-tapping screws
34. Framing screws
35. Tamper-resistant screws

To give you a better idea of the different types of screws in detail, I’ve compiled 34 types of screws with highlights of their main uses and features.

Read More: What is a Screw? – Different Parts of the Screw

1. Wood Screws

Wood screws are designed with a threaded shaft, specifically intended for joining pieces of wood together. They come in a variety of thread types and head styles, each suited to different applications. Among the most commonly used are flat-head and round-head screws, both of which serve distinct purposes in woodworking.

Benefits and Common Uses:

• Round-head screws are particularly well-suited for fastening thinner materials to wooden surfaces. Their shape allows them to hold items securely without pulling through the material.
• Flat-head screws are often the go-to choice when installing hardware like hinges, as they sit flush with the surface once driven in, providing a clean, level finish.

When it comes to materials, wood screws are most commonly crafted from stainless steel or brass. These particular metals aren’t chosen by accident they offer a solid balance of strength and corrosion resistance. That makes them especially useful in settings where long-term durability is important, like in outdoor projects or high-moisture environments.

What they’re used for: all types of wood.

2. Machine Screws

Machine screws play a crucial role in securing components across a wide range of industries, including electronics, engineering, and manufacturing.

Unlike typical screws that often require pointed tips, machine screws feature blunt ends, making them well-suited for fastening metal parts directly into pre-tapped holes, often with the support of a corresponding nut.

These screws are specifically engineered for assembling metal components and are manufactured using a variety of materials such as nylon, brass, stainless steel, and carbon steel. This variety allows for flexibility depending on the mechanical or environmental demands of the application.

Whether used in assembling circuit boards or holding together parts of industrial equipment, machine screws are an essential element in modern mechanical design.

3. Thread Cutting Machine Screws

Thread-cutting machine screws are designed with sharp cutting edges, which makes it essential for the pre-drilled hole to be slightly deeper than the screw itself. This extra depth helps prevent debris or excess material from becoming trapped inside the device during installation.

One of the key advantages of thread-cutting screws is their ability to reduce internal stress within the material, making them especially well-suited for use with rigid or dense materials.

In comparison, thread-forming screws lack a cutting edge. Instead of slicing through the material, they displace it, which can be challenging when working with materials that have low compressive strength. However, they do create a very secure fit between the screw and the material, which can be beneficial in applications where a tight hold is critical.

Common applications: These screws are frequently used in both wood and metalworking, depending on the type and nature of the material being fastened.

4. Sheet Metal Screws

Sheet metal screws are a go-to fastener when it comes to joining pieces of sheet metal, whether you’re connecting metal to metal, metal to tubing, or even metal to other materials.

They’re designed to create strong, secure joints without the need for welding in many cases, which makes them incredibly handy across various industries.

You’ll find these screws in different head styles—flat, hex, and round being the most common—so there’s flexibility depending on what the job calls for. Most of them are slotted and made from high-grade steel, which gives them durability.

On top of that, they’re often coated with stainless steel or aluminum to make sure they can stand up to weather and environmental wear. That’s part of why they’re so widely used in fields like metal fabrication and welding, where reliable performance in tough conditions really matters.

5. Self-Drilling Screws

Self-drilling screws are available with varying drill tip lengths, typically indicated by a numbering system—the higher the number, the longer the tip. This variation allows users to select screws tailored to the specific thickness of the material being fastened.

In addition to drill tip length, these screws come in different point sizes, which correspond to their diameter. Choosing the correct combination of diameter and tip length is essential, especially when working with materials of different thicknesses.

A thicker material will generally require a screw with a longer drill point to ensure proper penetration and secure fastening.

These screws are commonly used in construction and manufacturing, particularly for joining sheet metal or steel to other metal surfaces. Their design allows for efficient installation without the need for a pre-drilled hole, making them ideal for quick, reliable drilling into both metal and wood surfaces.

6. Hex Bolts

Hex cap screws, named for their six-sided heads, are robust fasteners commonly used in both woodworking and metal to wood connections.

Designed with finely threaded steel bodies, they offer strength and stability, making them suitable for a wide range of applications from interior home renovations to exterior stainless-steel projects.

A distinguishing feature of hex cap screws is the integrated flat washer beneath the head. This design detail helps distribute pressure evenly, allowing for more accurate and secure fastening.

Primary Use: These screws are typically employed to fasten wood to wood or metal to wood, depending on the demands of the project.

7. Carriage Bolts

Carriage bolts are commonly used in woodworking projects, especially when there’s a need to securely attach metal components to wood. One of their key design features is the domed head, which helps keep the bolt from loosening over time.

The broad, rounded head also acts as a stopper, making sure the bolt doesn’t pull through the wooden surface during use.

While these bolts are primarily associated with woodworking, they can also be applied in metalworking contexts, largely because they come with a machine screw thread that suits metal materials as well.

That said, there’s a bit of a catch carriage bolts aren’t designed to work with drill adapters. This can make them tricky, if not downright impractical, to install in certain metal setups.

Typical applications: You’ll often find carriage bolts being used to fasten metal to wood, or even metal to metal in the right circumstances.

8. Lag Bolts

Lag screws, also known as lag bolts, are engineered with a hexagonal head and are built to handle demanding, high-impact tasks. You’ll often see them in structural applications like wooden decks or retaining sidewalls where strength and stability are non-negotiable.

What sets lag screws apart is their exceptional strength and durability. Most are made with a high-carbon steel core, which gives them the toughness needed for load-bearing connections.

On the outside, they’re coated with galvanized zinc a protective layer that acts as a shield against rust and corrosion. Thanks to this coating, moisture and air can’t easily reach the metal underneath, helping prevent oxidation and extending the screw’s lifespan even in harsh conditions.

In terms of use, lag screws are the go-to fastener for connecting heavy timber or other weighty materials, especially when those components need to support a significant load.

Whether you’re working on a large framing project or anchoring thick beams, these screws are built to hold it all together securely.

9. Socket Screws

Socket-head screws are an ideal choice when a flush finish is needed beneath the surface of a material. Known for their strength and reliability, these screws are particularly effective in applications where a secure joint is essential.

In addition to their mechanical performance, socket-head screws offer excellent resistance to corrosion, making them suitable for both demanding environments and long-term use.

Beyond their functional advantages, they also contribute to a clean, high-quality appearance in any finished assembly.

Main features and benefits of socket countersunk screws:

• Available in different thread sizes
• Highly resistant to corrosion
• Made of stainless steel
• Head height is the same as the shank diameter

What they’re used for: fasting machine parts.

10. Set Screws

Set screws play an essential role in fastening one object to another, particularly in mechanical systems. A common example would be securing a gear or pulley onto a shaft using a set screw.

Unlike standard bolts or screws, set screws are fully threaded and don’t have a protruding head, which allows them to sit flush or within the surface ideal for compact or rotating applications.

They come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, each suited to different needs and levels of holding strength. Some of the most frequently used types include:

• Flat Set Screws: Flat set screws are designed to sit flush against the surface of the component they’re used with. What makes them especially useful is that they don’t cause damage—they simply press flat against the surface without digging in. This makes them ideal for applications where you need a firm hold but want to avoid leaving marks or indentations.
• Knurled Cup Screws: These have a slightly different function. Thanks to their knurled design, they create a locking effect that helps resist loosening, especially in environments where there’s a lot of vibration. If you’re working on something that moves or shakes a lot—like machinery—these are a smart choice.
• Cup Point Screws: Out of all the set screw types, cup point screws are probably the most widely used. They have a small, rounded point that digs into the surface to hold components in place. They’re great for both hard and soft materials and are generally considered a go-to when a more permanent hold is needed.

Set screws like these are mainly used to hold one object securely inside another—think of keeping a gear fixed on a shaft or holding a collar in place without it slipping.

11. Mating Screws

Mating screws are designed to work in tandem with sex screws. They typically feature a plain shaft along with a threaded end that fits into the internally threaded section of the sex screw.

These are commonly used in fastening situations where a finished appearance with a head on both sides of the joint is important.

12. Flat Screws

Flat-head screws are designed to sit flush with the material’s surface once fully installed, meaning the head is not exposed. To achieve this, the hole must be countersunk, allowing the screw to fit neatly into place.

One clear benefit of using flat-head screws is that they don’t protrude from the surface. This minimizes the risk of items catching or snagging on them something that can be both annoying and potentially damaging.

Another practical advantage is that, when paired with a screw cover, the head becomes virtually invisible, helping maintain a clean and seamless look in your project.

13. Raised Screw

Raised head screws often referred to as oval head screws share a similar angled underside with flat head screws, which means they also require countersinking to sit properly in the material. However, the top of the head has a slightly domed or curved appearance.

Unlike flat head screws that sit flush with the surface, raised head screws stick out just a bit. This protrusion isn’t about performance it doesn’t improve how the screw drives in but it’s often chosen for aesthetic reasons, adding a more finished or decorative look.

14. Bugle screws

Bugle head screws are specifically designed for use with plasterboard and drywall applications. While they resemble traditional flat-head screws in general appearance, the key distinction lies in the underside of the head.

Instead of a sharp angled edge, bugle heads feature a smooth, curved transition. This subtle design tweak helps minimize surface damage during installation, making them particularly suitable for softer materials like drywall.

One of the practical advantages of bugle screws is that they are typically self-drilling. This means there’s no need for pre-drilling, which not only saves time but also makes the installation process more efficient.

Additionally, the unique shape of the bugle head helps distribute stress more evenly across the material compared to flat-head screws. This reduces the risk of tearing or indentation around the screw, offering a more secure and clean finish.

15. Binding Screws

Binding screws often referred to as book screws or bookbinding screws serve a wide range of practical purposes. They’re commonly used in assembling color charts, swatch books, product catalogs, fabric sample collections, and even photo albums.

When paired with grommets or hanging hardware, they make it easy to store or display sample books in a tidy and accessible way.

Our inventory includes both metal and plastic binding screws to suit different applications. Metal tubes and screws are provided as individual components, giving users flexibility in assembly.

Options include standard screws with extensions, hammerhead screws, and our own patented hammerhead variant that includes an extension for added convenience.

On the other hand, plastic binding screws come pre-packaged as complete sets—each containing a screw and a matching tube. We also offer versions with pre-drilled holes, depending on your specific needs.

One of the key benefits of using binding screws is their non-permanent nature, which allows for easy updates or replacements perfect for materials that change frequently, like catalogs or swatch sets.

They also work seamlessly with a variety of add-ons, including extension pieces, sample strips, spacers, hanging loops, top caps, and washers making them incredibly versatile for both organizational and presentation purposes.

16. Domed Screw

Dome screws serve as a practical alternative to traditional buckles for securing the top straps of a helmet. Designed with user safety in mind, these screws are crafted from stainless steel and feature a low-profile build, which helps minimize the risk of causing scratches or cuts to another player’s helmet during contact.

Structurally, dome head screws are recognized for their oversized truss-style heads. This head design includes an undercut bottom and a subtly rounded, low-height dome top offering both function and a smooth, unobtrusive finish.

Users can select between Phillips or slotted drive options, and the screws are available with either machine or sheet metal threading, depending on the application needs.

17. Flange Screw

A flange is essentially a small, flat rim or collar that sticks out slightly—often found on bolts—designed to either reinforce the structure or provide a point of attachment. When used in the right context, flange bolts are considered highly reliable and safe.

What makes these bolts particularly practical is how they manage pressure. The flange at the base of the bolt’s head spreads out the force where the bolt meets the surface, which means there’s usually no need for a separate washer.

That’s a small detail, but it makes a difference—it saves both space and cost, especially in settings where every bit of room counts.

Now, it’s worth noting that a flange head isn’t limited to one particular shape. It can be just about any bolt head style, as long as it’s not countersunk. What sets it apart is the built-in flange that acts like a washer, making installation more efficient.

You’ll often find flange bolts in the furniture world, especially when it comes to assembling cabinets or shelving units. For example, when fastening hard fiberboard panels to the back of a cabinet, that flat flange head lies flush against the board.

It not only holds securely but also spreads the load over a wider area. That wider contact point helps protect the material and provides a solid hold without the need to add extra hardware.

18. Truss Screw

Truss-head screws are a type of threaded fastener recognized by their distinctive, mushroom-like heads. These heads are broad and gently rounded, giving them a shape that stands out from more conventional screw types.

When installed, truss-head screws do not sit flush with the surface; instead, the head remains slightly elevated above the workpiece. This design means they will always protrude once fully driven in.

They’re particularly useful in projects involving sheet metal or materials with larger pre-drilled holes. Thanks to their wide heads, truss screws are less likely to pull through, making them a practical choice when extra surface coverage is needed to hold materials in place.

19. Phillips screw

The Phillips screw was intentionally designed so that the screwdriver would slip out if too much force was applied.

While that might seem like a flaw at first glance, this unique feature actually offered a significant advantage it helped prevent over-tightening and reduced the risk of damaging either the screw or the material it was being driven into.

Thanks to this design, Phillips screws were better suited to handle higher torque compared to many traditional fasteners.

Because of their ability to create more secure, reliable connections, Phillips screws quickly became a staple in industrial settings. They proved especially useful on assembly lines, where speed and precision were critical. It didn’t take long before they were widely adopted across various industries and applications.

A clear example of their impact can be seen in the rise of the Ford Model T. This vehicle wasn’t just another car it represented a major turning point in automotive history. As the first truly affordable car for the average American, the Model T helped bring personal transportation to the masses.

It remains one of the most influential automobiles of the 20th century, and its success was due in part to innovations like the use of Phillips screws that made mass production more efficient.

20. Eye bolts

Eyebolts are among the most widely used fasteners, valued by both homeowners and professionals in material handling. Chances are, you’ve probably seen them in just about any hardware store.

Structurally, an eyebolt features a threaded shaft with a circular loop often called the “eye” at one end. This design makes them ideal for lifting applications, as the eye can accommodate ropes, cables, or hooks for secure attachment during hoisting tasks.

Different uses for eye bolts:

• In industrial settings, larger-sized eye bolts are used for lifting and tensioning.
• In homes, they are used for hanging decorations or plants on walls
• In welding industries, stainless steel eye bolts are ideal for harsh weather conditions as they can be used for heavy-duty outdoor welding applications

What they’re used for: attaching a rope, chain, or cable.

21. J-bolts

J-bolts are a type of fastener characterized by their distinctive J-shape, with threading along the straight portion of the bolt. They’re commonly used in construction, particularly for securing structures such as walls to concrete or stone foundations.

What sets them apart is their curved end, which isn’t just for shape; it actually provides additional anchoring strength when embedded into concrete.

The threaded portion, typically the longer, straight end of the bolt, is available in various lengths depending on the specific project requirements. This part allows for attachment using a hook mechanism, ultimately giving the bolt its signature “J” form.

J-bolts serve primarily as anchor fasteners in construction settings. They’re especially useful where stability and strong foundational connections are critical

22. U-bolts

U-bolts are a type of industrial fastener characterized by their distinctive U-shape, featuring two threaded legs that extend from a curved base.

These threaded ends are typically paired with nuts and washers to create a secure hold, though in some cases, a crosspiece may be used instead to enhance stability. Designed for insertion into pre-drilled or punched holes, U-bolts offer a versatile solution across a range of industries.

In practice, U-bolts are widely used in plumbing, construction, and various industrial settings. Their main functions include securing piping systems and serving as anchoring components for structural foundations and roofing assemblies.

Their straightforward design and reliable grip make them a go-to choice for fastening applications that demand both strength and simplicity.

23. Shoulder bolts

U-bolts are a type of industrial fastener characterized by their distinctive U-shape, featuring two threaded legs that extend from a curved base.

These threaded ends are typically paired with nuts and washers to create a secure hold, though in some cases, a crosspiece may be used instead to enhance stability. Designed for insertion into pre-drilled or punched holes, U-bolts offer a versatile solution across a range of industries.

In practice, U-bolts are widely used in plumbing, construction, and various industrial settings. Their main functions include securing piping systems and serving as anchoring components for structural foundations and roofing assemblies.

Their straightforward design and reliable grip make them a go-to choice for fastening applications that demand both strength and simplicity.

24. Elevator bolts

Elevator bolts are remarkably versatile and show up in more places than one might expect. They’re commonly used to fasten various types of flooring securely in place, and they’re also handy for leveling uneven legs on wooden furniture.

Beyond that, you’ll even find them in more niche applications like holding components together on skateboards and snowmobiles.

These bolts typically feature standard right-hand threading and are available in a range of lengths, from short to long, with full threading along the shaft. When it comes to measuring them, the length is taken from the top surface of the bolt’s head down to the very end of the threaded portion.

As for the design of the head itself, there’s a bit of variety depending on the intended use. Options include flat countersunk heads, shallow conical types, square necks situated just beneath the head, and some versions that use a unified thread system.

In terms of function, elevator bolts are most commonly found in mechanical systems like conveyor belts and elevators basically, anywhere components need to be lifted or moved vertically in a stable, controlled manner.

25. Sex bolts

Sex bolts fall under the broader category of mating screws and are known by a variety of names depending on their specific application or regional terminology.

You might hear them referred to as inter-screws, barrel nuts, partition screws, panel fasteners, binding posts, Chicago screws, or even architectural sex bolts.

Essentially, a sex bolt is a type of fastener that includes a barrel-shaped flange and a pointed boss with internal threading. It works in conjunction with a matching machine screw, with each component placed on opposite sides of the material being secured.

One of the key reasons people choose this type of fastening system is its low-profile design, along with the integrated slot that makes it easier to tighten during assembly.

In terms of practical use, sex bolts are ideal in bolting situations where having a finished head on both sides of the joint is important whether for aesthetic reasons, added stability, or functionality.

26. Hanger bolts

Hanger bolts are specialized fasteners designed without a conventional head, commonly employed in woodworking projects. Their unique dual-threaded design allows them to serve two distinct functions within a single application.

One end features coarse threads similar to a lag screw, enabling it to embed securely into wood. The opposite end is machined with standard screw threads, allowing for the attachment of a nut or other hardware.

This dual-thread functionality makes hanger bolts particularly useful in contexts where wood structures need to be joined with metal fittings or where an object must be suspended from a wooden base.

As a result, they are frequently used in a range of applications including storm shutter installations, furniture assembly, structural framing, and flooring systems.

In practical terms, hanger bolts are ideal when you need to hang, mount, or fasten something to wood while still needing the flexibility to attach or remove a component with a nut on the opposite side.

27. Decking screws

Decking screws, typically made from stainless steel or carbon steel, are specifically engineered for securing wooden or composite boards to either wood or metal surfaces.

They’re available in a range of widths and lengths, making them a practical and reliable choice for fastening decking boards to supporting frames.

Advantages of decking screws:

• These fasteners are commonly employed to secure wood or composite deck boards to supporting frames, making them particularly suitable for applications in the shipbuilding industry.
• They are also frequently utilized in the construction of exterior fencing, where durability and ease of installation are essential.
• In addition to larger projects, they can be used effectively to assemble wooden chairs and construct basic decking frameworks.
• One of their key advantages is that they do not require pre-drilled holes, which simplifies the installation process and saves time.

28. Thread-rolling screws

Unlike traditional screws that cut threads into the material, thread-rolling screws form threads by applying pressure to the material’s inner walls. This method is particularly effective for softer materials like wood, plastic, and nylon, where cutting threads could lead to damage.

One of the key design features of these screws is their double lead thread pattern, which helps reduce the amount of torque needed during installation while improving grip strength making the connection more secure and less likely to loosen over time.

Some versions also come with wider thread spacing, making them easier to drive into pre-drilled holes and reducing the risk of cracking or splitting the material.

29. Weld screws

Weld screws are commonly affixed to aluminum or other metal surfaces to serve as a mounting point or shaft for components that need to be secured. Typically, this fastening is achieved using a washer or a nut.

What makes weld screws distinct is the presence of tabs that extend from the screw head, allowing them to be welded directly onto a surface without the need for pre-drilled holes. Once in place, the stud is attached to the base metal, forming a solid and reliable connection.

These fasteners are widely utilized across a variety of industries, including automotive, industrial manufacturing, marine engineering, construction, cookware production, and aerospace applications, due to their durability and ease of use.

30. Raised or slotted cheese screws

Slotted cheese head screws, typically crafted from stainless steel, feature a distinct round, raised head design. Interestingly, the height of the cheese head is usually about half the diameter of the head itself a characteristic that sets it apart from other screw types.

These screws are widely used across various industries, including electrical work, telecommunications, industrial machinery, and automotive lighting. One of the main reasons for their popularity is their exceptional resistance to rust and corrosion.

This durability makes them a reliable choice even for underwater applications, where other materials might fail over time.

31. Fillister head screws

Fillister head screws, often recognized by their distinctively oversized and slotted heads, are a type of machine fastener commonly used to secure metal or wood components to metal surfaces.

Sometimes referred to as “cheese head screws,” they closely resemble pan head machine screws but are distinguished by their taller head profile. This design makes them particularly well-suited for applications involving counterbored holes, where the head needs to sit flush or below the surface.

32. Drywall screws

Drywall screws are commonly used fasteners designed to attach full or partial sheets of drywall to wall studs or ceiling joists. Depending on the type of framing material wood or metal there are two main types to choose from:

Coarse-thread drywall screws are best suited for wood studs. Their widely spaced threads are designed to bite into the wood easily, providing a strong and secure hold. These screws typically feature a sharp tip for quick penetration and are often coated with a phosphate finish to resist corrosion.

Fine-thread drywall screws, on the other hand, are ideal for use with metal studs. Since they’re self-threading, they can tap into metal without the need for pre-drilling. These screws usually have double threads, which help them start cleanly and drive smoothly through metal surfaces.

33. Self-tapping screws

Self-tapping fasteners are specifically designed to cut their own threads as they are driven into a material hence the term “self-tapping.” To use them effectively, one must first drill a pilot hole that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw itself.

This preliminary step is particularly important when working with softer materials such as wood. Once the pilot hole is in place, the screw can be driven in, during which its threads bite into the material, securing it firmly.

Although commonly associated with wood, self-tapping screws are versatile and can also be used with tougher materials like metal and brick. In these cases, selecting the appropriate type of screw becomes crucial.

For instance, screws with sharp, pointed tips are typically more effective for harder surfaces, as they help pierce and create the threading more easily.

It’s important to note, however, that not all self-tapping screws are pointed some may feature flat or blunt tips. Therefore, choosing the correct type based on the specific material and application is essential to ensure proper installation and holding strength.

34. Framing screws

Framing screws are versatile fasteners commonly used in a wide range of applications, including sheet metal, wood, laminate, composite decking, and cement fiberboard.

Their design allows them to effectively countersink into a variety of materials whether it’s dense hardwood flooring or more fragile composite surfaces.

This functionality is made possible by the screws’ under-head cutting teeth, complemented by six strategically placed cutting pockets that help ease the material out as the screw drives in.

Interestingly, the way framing screws operate shares some similarities with how circular saw blades handle debris. As the screw enters the material, it helps keep sawdust or other particles from accumulating at the edge of the hole.

This not only ensures a cleaner installation but also allows for a secure seal around the screw without compromising the surface integrity of the material.

35. Tamper-resistant screws

Tamper-proof screws are commonly used in public spaces and buildings to reduce the risk of vandalism. What sets these security screws apart is their unique drive design, which isn’t compatible with standard tools making unauthorized removal far more challenging.

They’re especially useful in securing items that might otherwise be easy targets, such as vehicle license plates, gutters, or even grill bars in correctional facilities.

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