PEM® Thread Locking Solutions from Zygology Ltd

2 mins read

Preventing threaded joints from becoming loose is a problem which taxes most of those involved in assembly. Many techniques are used to prevent hardware working itself free including spring washers, tab washers, locking washers, thread sealants, thread locking patches, SEMS, the list goes on.

One simple and elegant method of ensuring that when something is screwed up it stays that way is a thread locking self-clinching nut. Quick installation is accomplished by placing the locknut into a properly sized mounting hole and applying sufficient squeezing force using a standard press to embed the fastener’s clinching profile completely in the metal sheet. All clinching is performed on the fastener side of the sheet, allowing the reverse side to remain flush and smooth without protrusions. Self-clinching technology adds more reliability for the attachment. The locking nuts install permanently in host metal sheets to become integral parts of an assembly, will not loosen or fall out, never have to be restrained from rotation with a tool, and never have to be handled again.

Standard bolts plus washer if preferred are all that is required to achieve a permanent joint which will resist loosening by vibration or heat cycling. Torque settings become less important as compressing spring washers to create a tight joint is not such an issue.

Compared with conventional chemical adhesives or affixed patches, locknuts can help save time and money during production by minimizing the number of required assembly steps and materials.

PEM has various self-locking solutions in its armoury – all with their own special thread locking characteristics.

PEM® SL™ self-clinching steel locknuts integrate a unique TRI-DENT® locking feature to hold mating screws tight over time by providing sufficient torsional resistance to withstand vibration, thermal cycling, and other loads which could loosen the screws in service. These prevailing torque locknuts, which meet 3 cycle locking performance to effectively "self-lock" the assembly for up to 3 lock-unlock cycles without a significant deterioration in performance. Available in M3 to M8 threads and unified sizes. Recommended for use in aluminium or steel panels down to 1.0mm thick.

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PEMFLEX® inserts are high performance self-locking nuts suitable for a range of hi performance and military applications. The threaded part of the fasteners is split into two segments which apply pressure to the mating screw and result in a torque out load which is higher than that used for installation. PEMFLEX® fasteners have a low rear side profile and the hex body offers excellent pull through resistance. Available in aluminium, steel and stainless steel variants in M2.5 to M5 threads plus unified threads. Thread locking meets or exceeds NASM25027 specifications.

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PEM LAS, LAC and LA4 inserts offer floating threads which allow for panel misalignment to be catered for. The threads on LA inserts are slightly elliptical which puts a squeeze on the mating thread providing a locking feature. Inserts are available in steel and 300 or 400 grade stainless steel. Thread sizes are M3 to M6 plus unified threads. Thread locking meets or exceeds NASM25027 specifications. Non locking variants are also available if required.

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PEMHEX® inserts employ a nylon insert to resist threads becoming loose. The insert body offers a low profile and diameter, with its clever design making it especially suited to close to edge applications. The nylon insert makes the thread ideal for applications where the screw will have to be used and re-used multiple times. PEMHEX® inserts are available in steel and stainless steel with M3 to M5 threads plus unified. Thread locking meets or exceeds NASM25027 specifications.

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For samples, more information or a demonstration please call Zygology Ltd on 0808 123 1221. We would be delighted to hear from you.