Profil UK’s recently announced SBF ball pin fastener will be exhibited for the first time in the UK.
Offering a fast and cost-effective method of achieving high strength pivot points in sheet metal components from 0.8-1.5 mm thick, the new fastener incorporates a cold forged 10 mm diameter head that is compatible with industry-standard gas springs – making it ideal for domestic appliance use, as well as for vehicle tailgate and bonnet applications.
Profil’s display of advanced pierce fastening solutions will focus on the company’s ability to accurately install high strength, male or female threads in components up to 4.0 mm thick. Among other new products on show will be its recently-introduced URN nut, which provides a highly cost-effective solution for applications requiring good dynamic, static and impact load performance in light gauge materials. In addition, Profil will be demonstrating its range of pierce nuts and studs in standard and large flange configurations, as well as shouldered, conical, ultra low-profile, high shear, flush fitting and restricted access types. All are available with M6-M12 threads in a variety of materials, for installation in coated or uncoated materials, high tensile, stainless and sandwich steels, aluminium sections and even magnesium castings.
Special-purpose products on display will include Profil’s two-piece electrical earthing fastener; the company’s heavy duty NBR location stud; and multi-functional RSN ‘top hat’ nut, which produces secure, water-tight mountings for vehicle after-market roof racks – as well as significant build quality benefits and cost savings of up to $0.50 per car. Similarly, fasteners in Profil’s latest corrosion-resistant ‘Magni’ finish, capable of withstanding more than 1000 hours of salt spray without rusting, will also be showcased at the exhibition – demonstrating the system’s suitability for even the most aggressive operating environments.
Feeding and insertion equipment for installing more than 100 fasteners per minute – at least an order of magnitude faster than riveted or welded methods – will also be highlighted on Profil’s stand.
Pierce fastening’s ability to achieve vibration resistant fixings with high static, dynamic and impact load capabilities will be further underlined by the company’s display of applications on the BMW Mini, Mercedes A class, Range-Rover’s Discovery and all-new Freelander 2, as well as Ford’s Ka, Fiesta and Focus models. Collectively, these vehicles employ more than 800 Profil fasteners in their construction – in areas ranging from wing mirror retention to safety-critical engine, gearbox and subframe mountings.