FASTENERS & FIXINGS
SPOTLIGHT
STAR FASTENERS
Huck ® Fasteners designed for use in composite panel
Sandwich panels , also known as composite panels are generally characterised by their performance characteristics . They are made by bonding two thin facings to a lightweight core material using adhesive bonding . The core separates the two skins providing strength and durability and offers very little increase in weight , producing a highly efficient panel structure . Manufactured from a wide variety of materials including foam , polypropylene or aluminium honeycomb core and glass fibre reinforced plastic ( GRP ) or aluminium facings , these panels are now used in a wide range of applications . The technology is not a new one , for years these panels have been used in the manufacture of civilian and military aircraft , and its success and benefits in this field has made it desirable across a wide range of industries seeking to apply its advantages to their applications .
Sandwich panels are now the preferred material in efforts to lightweight vehicles and are used in a multitude of industries and applications including , emergency vehicles , light truck construction , commercial vehicle trailers , event vehicles , containers , housings , wind power housings , potable structures , welfare units , in fact application possibilities are endless . Technological and design innovation has advanced rapidly and unique and flexible manufacturing processes have made it possible for the material to be extremely tough and lightweight , they are now being used as a high-strength alternative to traditional materials such as aluminium and steel .
The strength of the composite panel often depends on its overall size , the surface material used and the density of the cells inside it . New product design and fabrication methods involving composite materials alter typical fastener material requirements . This is where Star Fasteners knowledge and expertise is often called upon by design teams and engineers . Initial consultation encompasses a complete assessment of the application and materials to be used . Once this has been established the joint geometry and the range of stresses imposed can be determined , selecting an appropriate fastener ensures that stress levels on both the fastener and material are kept sufficiently low so as not to cause fatigue problems .
Thanks to its high pullout strength , Penta-Lok is suited for use within thin materials or delicate composites .
ADVANTAGES OF USING HUCK FASTENERS IN COMPOSITE PANELS
Simple joint configuration – speedy , low skilled assembly process compared to a purely bonded system which requires a controlled application environment .
Easy to disassemble if required – if a repair is necessary often the fastener can be removed , the panel replaced without damage to the adjoining panels / surrounding structure .
Inspection is straightforward – quick and easy visual inspection once installed .
Few thickness limitations – the Huck fasteners product range caters for a large variety of joint thicknesses . Correctly
Huck ® Encapsulated Hucktainer
installed mechanical fasteners do not distort or penetrate the appearance of the panels and are weather and water resistant .
Environmentally sustainable – approximately 90 % of the automotive scrap can be recycled into other products . Huck fasteners offer a secure fastening solution that can also be recycled when they reach the end of their useful life .
Fastener longevity – as well as quality plated steel fasteners , plastic encapsulated heads , aluminium and stainless-steel varieties ensure a long life of the finished structure .
Mechanical fixing - offer structural integrity to a build ; their mechanical properties offer reliable performance .
Time efficient – time associated with the assembly process can be a major factor . Both the 2-piece Huckbolts and structural blind fasteners combine unmatched speed of assembly .
No special training required – Huck engineered fasteners do not require any special installation training for someone to become proficient in installing them .
High Pin retention in structural blind fasteners – prevents possibility of noise or vibration in dynamic assemblies .
46 PECM Issue 49