Do I need to pre-drill for these screws?
No. The self-drilling point cuts its own hole through the steel frame as you drive it. That works on light section steel up to 3.0mm thick. Go thicker than that and the point won't get through.
What's the maximum steel thickness they'll drill?
3.0mm. They're built for light section steel dry-lining frames. For heavier steel you'll need a heavy-duty self-drilling screw or a pre-drilled pilot hole.
Can I use them outside?
Yes. The Exterior Plus silver organic plating is rated to 1,500 hours salt spray and carries Corrosion Rating 3. That covers damp interiors and exterior spots in urban or industrial areas with a low salt atmosphere. For coastal or heavy salt exposure, step up to a higher corrosion rating.
What board types do they suit?
Cement board and fibre-cement board fixed onto a steel frame. That takes in tile backer boards and general cement particle boards used on metal stud partitions.
What drill speed should I run?
Keep the driver between 1,800 and 2,500 RPM. Too slow and the point struggles to drill the steel. Too fast and you can burn the tip before it bites.
Do I still need a countersink bit?
No. The wafer head has ribs underneath that cut their own seat, so the head pulls flush into the board on its own.