What is press‑fit fastener and why is it needed?
Press‑fit fasteners (PEM fasteners) are nuts, studs, bushings, and standoffs that are pressed into sheet metal using cold forming. After pressing, the element is held in the metal with high axial and torque load, requiring no welding or tapping. This is a standard solution in the production of enclosures, cabinets, and instrument panels.
What types of press‑fit fasteners do you install?
We install press‑fit nuts (with serrations and clinch), locknuts, threaded studs, spacer bushings, and standoffs. We work with fasteners for inch and metric threads from M2 to M12. Fasteners are installed into sheets of steel, aluminum, and stainless steel of various thicknesses.
How is press‑fit better than a welded nut or thread tapping?
Press‑fit does not deform thin sheet metal unlike welding, provides high thread positioning accuracy, and requires no subsequent cleaning. For thin‑sheet structures (up to 3 mm), press‑fit is the only reliable way to create a strong threaded joint without risk of burn‑through or warping.
What is the minimum metal thickness for installing press‑fit fasteners?
The minimum sheet thickness depends on the type and size of the fastener – generally from 0.8–1.0 mm for thin‑wall aluminum and from 1.0–1.5 mm for steel. Specific parameters are determined by fastener‑material compatibility tables. Our specialists will select suitable fasteners for your thickness and load.
At what stage of production are press‑fit fasteners installed?
Typically, press‑fit fasteners are installed after laser cutting and bending, but before powder coating. This ensures accurate alignment with laser‑prepared holes and keeps the coating undisturbed in the press‑fit area. Within our facility, all operations are performed sequentially on one site.
Can I order fastener installation as a separate operation?
No, we perform press‑fit fastener installation only as part of a full product manufacturing cycle. This is because correct press‑fitting depends on the geometry and preparation of holes, which we control from the start. If you need a full cycle – contact us for a quotation.
How do I specify fastener locations in the drawing?
In the drawing, you must indicate: hole positions for fasteners (coordinates relative to datum surfaces), hole diameter, fastener type and part number (or its characteristics: thread pitch, length, material). If the exact fastener types are not yet determined – our process engineers will help with selection during the approval stage.
