New stainless steel PEM® TK™TackSert® pins from PennEngineering® introduce ideal alternatives to screws for attaching thin panels in assemblies. They can securely attach panels of any material to base panels manufactured from common casting materials (such as AZ91D) or plastics (such as ABS and printed circuit boards). Unique design features promote reliable performance in service.

PEM TK TackSert pins deliver multiple advantages over screws by eliminating any need for mating threads from tapped holes or inserts and the rework frequently required due to screw cross-threading and driver bit “cam-out.” Patches intended to prevent fastener loosening in service are unnecessary.

Among pin design features, a tapered tip assists in pin location to enable easier alignment into a base panel, a specially engineered diagonal broaching knurl (instead of threads) creates a firm interference fit without hole-tolerance issues, and a low-profile head minimizes protrusion on the attached panel.

The pins are offered in a variety of lengths and can successfully attach sheets with thicknesses from .067” / 1.7mm to .185” / 4.7mm, depending on pin length. For plastic bases, simple press-in installation without using heat or ultrasonics is performed by preparing properly sized mounting holes in the top sheet and base panel, placing the pin through the hole in the top sheet and into the through or blind mounting hole of the base panel, and then applying sufficient squeezing force using punch and anvil until the head of the pin contacts the top sheet. Pins can even be installed automatically for high-volume jobs.

Detailed specifications, fastener drawings and 3D models, and performance data (Bulletin TK) can be viewed and downloaded for free at www.pemnet.com.

Founded in 1942, PennEngineering (Danboro, PA, USA) is a global leader in the fastening industry with technical and manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe, and Asia supported by a global engineering-focused sales force and a worldwide network of authorized distributors.

PEM® FHX™ self-clinching flush-head studs from PennEngineering® uniquely feature an X-Press™ thread profile enabling quick mating with push-on plastic nuts, wire tie products, or other plastic fasteners in thin metal assemblies. Their coarse thread design – larger threads relative to the stud’s diameter – reduces assembly time by allowing for easy mating of plastic parts and promotes especially high retention force. The thread design additionally accommodates paints and coatings without compromising fastener performance in service.

The studs install permanently in metal sheets as thin as 1mm. They press easily into place using any standard press or can be installed automatically during the stamping process using an automated PEMSERTER® press equipped with in-die technology. Upon installation, the head of the stud mounts flush in the metal sheet for a clean and attractive finished appearance. Domed stud heads are available on special order.

The studs are manufactured from hardened carbon steel and finished with zinc plus clear chromate as standard or a rust-preventive oil finish as an option. They can be supplied in 5mm or 6mm thread sizes and in lengths from 10mm to 25mm.

Detailed specifications, fastener drawings and 3D models, and performance data (Bulletin FH) can be viewed and downloaded for free at www.pemnet.com.

Founded in 1942, PennEngineering (Danboro, PA, USA) is a global leader in the fastening industry with technical and manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe, and Asia supported by a global engineering-focused sales force and a worldwide network of authorized distributors.

PEM® PFC4™ self-clinching captive panel screws from PennEngineering® install permanently into stainless steel enclosures to enable easy access whenever necessary and eliminate risks associated with loose screws. The captivated screw remains reliably in place where designed in a door or panel and will not loosen, fall out, or damage internal components. Expanding their application potential, these spring-loaded fastener assemblies comply with UL 60950 equipment access standards. Continue reading →

New microPEM® MSOFS™ flaring standoffs from PennEngineering® provide ideal miniature fastener solutions to attach and/or space components in compact electronic assemblies. They install permanently in thin panels of any hardness and material, including stainless steel, other metals, plastics, and printed circuit boards. A unique flaring feature adds value by allowing for installation into multiple panels. Continue reading →

PEMHEX® self-clinching prevailing torque locknuts from PennEngineering® integrate a trademarked blue nylon hexagonal insert designed to prevent mating screws from loosening in service due to vibration, thermal cycling, or other application-related factors. The reusable locking element provides the necessary torque resistance to securely grip mating screws and allow for their repeated installation and removal over time. The primary advantage of this locking method is to greatly reduce the possibility of conductive debris being generated from repeated installation and removal of mating screws. Thread-locking torque performance is equivalent to applicable NASM25027 specifications. Continue reading →

Aluminum and stainless steel microPEM® TackSert® pins from PennEngineering® provide cost-effective alternatives to micro screws for attaching top panels to base panels or chassis in compact electronic assemblies. They will attach top panels of any material to a base or chassis manufactured from common cast metals (such as magnesium and aluminum) or plastics (such as ABS and printed circuit boards). The pins ultimately eliminate many of the costs and issues associated with screws and integrate unique design features promoting reliable and effective performance. Continue reading →

New PEM® S-RT™ self-clinching free-running locknuts from PennEngineering® feature a modified thread angle enabling easier tightening of mating screws and superior vibration-resistant locking performance in thin metal assemblies. The modified thread formation allows mating screws to spin freely during the attachment process until clamp load is induced during the screw-tightening process. Continue reading →

PennEngineering®, a global leader in fastening technologies, has expanded operations in Galway, Ireland, with a new 80,000-square-foot manufacturing and research facility. The new facility becomes the primary manufacturing site for all PEM® self-clinching fastener products sold throughout Europe. In addition, the site houses a newly created Research and Development Center and an Application Engineering Center providing all-encompassing custom fastener and installation design and test capabilities. Continue reading →