Posted to News on 7th Nov 2006, 00:00
Secure fastening for plastic assemblies
The latest news from Cross Manufacturing reports on an unexpected development in the application of locking wire thread inserts that is truly groundbreaking. A pioneering and lengthy programme of vibration testing on Cross Spiralock thread inserts has demonstrated a locking performance that is equally good in steel, aluminium and plastic.
These extraordinary results offer the possibility of using Cross Spiralock inserts in a multitude of new industries where plastics are in common use. The ability of the Spirlock insert to grip with immunity to the effects of vibration and allow dismantling and reassembly with no deterioration in performance should prove attractive in many applications. One example, Sustarin C is widely used for precision machined components in the food, pharmaceutical and hygienic industries, whilst GRP is the staple of the boat building industry. In addition, plastics are increasingly being used in the automotive industry for car panels, where the capability for swift assembly and replacement is a positive advantage.
The inserts rely on their unique thread profile, which transmits the tightening loading down the full length of the bolt to achieve their proven locking performance and resistance to vibration. This is an innovative departure from the distorted thread design of conventional prevailing torque alternatives.
