Right-angle fasteners eliminate brackets and bent tabs

Jan. 8, 2004
A new series of self-clinching fasteners creates strong, right-angle attachment points in thin steel and aluminum assemblies.

The fasteners were developed as economical and practical alternatives to bent tabs on the edges of sheets, bent flanges, right-angle brackets, or tack welds.

PEM R'ANGLE fasteners from PennEngineering Fastening Technologies, Danboro, Pa., includes both self-tapping and steel-threaded types, which install permanently in metal sheets as thin as 0.040 in. or 1 mm.

Self-tapping, Type RAA, aluminum clinch fasteners are used in aluminum sheets, requiring only a thread-forming screw in sizes #4-40, #6-32, #8-32, M3, or M4 to complete final assembly. Threaded, Type RAS, steel clinch fasteners in similar sizes can be installed in aluminum and steel sheets, and accept standard machine screws.

Installation involves a three-step process. First punch a properly sized rectangular mounting hole in the sheet. Secondary operations such as deburring are not necessary. Then place the fastener through the mounting hole and into an anvil. Finally, with punch and anvil surfaces parallel, the assembler applies a squeezing force until the bottom of the fastener becomes flush with the sheet.

Benefits include more-predictable assembly, improved shielding, material and assembly savings, less loose hardware, unmarred panels, and no welding.

Make Contact:

PennEngineering Fastening Technologies, Box 1000, Danboro, PA 18916(800) 237-4736www.pennfast.com

Sponsored Recommendations

Aug. 22, 2025
Discover how to meet growing customer demands for custom products without overextending your engineering team. Learn how scaling your automation strategy can help you win more...
Aug. 22, 2025
Join industry leaders to explore how cutting edge digital technologies are transforming factories. Learn how to boost throughput, enhance flexibility, and accelerate your digital...
Aug. 22, 2025
Explore the future of manufacturing. Learn how to leverage the latest digital technologies and strategies to build a more efficient, agile, and resilient digital factory.
Aug. 21, 2025
A look into the latest improvements in motion control through high-performance drives, AI enhancements, and faster communication protocols.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!