As technology advances, so must the means of assembly. New materials, strict regulations and improved processes have created a need for fastening solutions that improve upon the standard nut and bolt pair. A specific advance that has become prevalent in recent years is reduction of material. This manifests itself in thinner walled assemblies. Companies are looking to reduce both material costs and product weight, thus, reducing the overall amount of material used. Sheet metals are thinner, and with new technology plastic wall thicknesses are decreasing as well. This is a matter of interest for the fastening industry. In addition to the necessity of a secure, high performance joint, new recycling and environmental mandates are in effect as well. In order for threaded fasteners to maintain a presence in this market, innovative new designs need to be utilized for these thin-walled materials.
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