Self Clinching Fasteners Do's and Don'ts

DO -

• Punch or drill the correct size hole in the panel as specified for the fastener.
  

• Make sure that the Shank or pilot of the fastener is located squarely in the hole before applying pressure.
  

• Apply a parallel squeezing force
  

• Make sure the panel is held perpendicular to the Punch / Anvil.
  

• Apply enough force to totally embed the knurling so the shoulder of the nut is squarely in contact with the sheet. For Stud and Standoffs, the head should be completely flush with the top of the panel.
  

• Pay attention the specified minimum panel thickness for the fastener.
  

• Pay attention to the specified maximum panel hardness limitations.
  

• Pay attention to the minimum centerline to edge limits as specified for the fastener.
  

• Make sure that installation tooling is in good condition and within specification for the fastener you are installing. *Please note that all punches and anvils should be made from hardened tool steel. A worn or deformed punch or anvil will result in a sub-standard installation and poor performance*

Don't -

• De-burr the hole on either side of the panel - de-burring will remove material that is required during the clinching process.
  

• Over install the fastener - the fastener will distort, resulting in tight threads and a buckled panel.
  

• Try to install the fastener with a hammer blow - a sustained parallel squeezing force is required to allow the cold flow process of material into the clinch ring / undercut to happen.
  

• Install steel or stainless fasteners into aluminium panels before anodising or finishing.
  

• Install the screw from the head side of the fastener. You must install from the opposite side of installation.

A range of common installation problem causes and solutions can be found here.