New Lock Nuts by PEM with TRI-DENT Technology Hold Mating Screws Fast

In applications where vibration, thermal expansion, or repeated movement threaten the integrity of mechanical connections, choosing the right locknut makes all the difference in preventing fasteners from loosening. PEM® Type?SL locknuts are a standout option, these self-clinching locknuts from PennEngineering containing a proprietary locking system for long-lasting threaded connections in thin-metal assemblies. This blog will touch on all the notable features of these locknuts, helping you determine if they are the best fit for your assembly needs.

The Basics of PEM Type SL Locknuts

Unlike traditional free-spinning nuts or locking solutions that rely on external hardware or chemical adhesives, PEM® Type SL locknuts become a permanent part of the host material upon installation. This locknut has a cylindrical body with a flat top surface and a knurled clinching ring located beneath a tapered undercut, which displaces host material during installation to form a secure mechanical anchor. Internally, its top few threads are radially deformed as part of the patented TRI-DENT® system, creating a self-contained locking mechanism that applies consistent friction to the mating screw.

Standout Features

• Self-clinching installation: The nut is pressed into a properly sized hole in a metal sheet, allowing its clinching ring to cold-form into the host material and leave the outer sheet surface flush and unmarred.
• Vibration resistance and reusability: Their TRI-DENT® locking system meets IFI-100/107 prevailing torque standards and endures at least three reuse cycles without performance loss.
• Materials and Compatibility: Manufactured from hardened carbon steel and zinc plated with a clear chromate finish, these locknuts are corrosion resistant. Furthermore, they are suitable for installation in steel or aluminum sheets with a maximum hardness of HRB 80 (or HB 150), as the host material must be soft enough to allow installation.
• A wide dimensional range: Available in Unified (#4-40 through 3/8-16) and Metric (M3 through M10) thread sizes to support a wide range of mechanical designs.

Advantages Over Traditional Locking Methods

Compared to adhesives or chemical patches, PEM SL locknuts offer several significant benefits:

• Permanent installation: Once pressed into place, these locknuts become an integral part of the host metal, greatly reducing the likelihood of loosening or displacement.
• Flush outer finish: The self-clinching process leaves the exterior surface of the sheet clean and smooth, which is prized in applications that prioritize aesthetics or where clearances or sealing surfaces must remain uninterrupted.
• No external hardware required: These fasteners streamline assembly by eliminating the use of washers, serrated components, or chemical thread lockers.
• Maintenance-free: With no need for re-tightening or thread treatments over time, they reduce long-term maintenance demand.
• Environmentally stable: As all-metal locking components, they are mostly unaffected by temperature extremes, UV exposure, or chemical degradation, unlike polymer-based adhesives or locking patches that can degrade over time.

How Are Type SL Locknuts Installed?

1. Prepare the panel by punching or drilling a mounting hole that is sized per PennEngineering’s specifications.
   
2. Insert the nut from the punch side of a metal sheet that meets minimum thickness requirements, typically ≥.040″/1?mm.
   
3. Apply parallel pressing force using a C-frame or bench press until the flange nuts sits flush and the clinching ring punches into the sheet.

Installation Tips

• Use a parallel press—do not hammer
• Pre-plate or paint before installation, rather than installing on a painted surface

Key Use Cases for Type SL Locknuts

SL locknuts are suitable for a broad range of settings that utilize thin metal construction and need to factor in vibration resistance, including applications like:

• Aerospace components
• Automotive body panels and interior assemblies
• Industrial machinery housings
• HVAC systems
• Consumer electronics

Procure PEM Type SL Locknuts and other Hardware from ASAP Parts 360

The PEM Type SL locknut is a robust and cost-efficient solution for engineers and designers seeking a reliable method of securing components in thin metal assemblies, outperforming many traditional locking methods. ASAP Semiconductor is proud to offer customers access to ready-for purchase PEM Type SL components and a wide range of other products sourced exclusively from trusted entities through our website, ASAP Parts 360. We strive to deliver a seamless experience every time, offering curated solutions for every customer without making them choose between efficient fulfillment, fair pricing, or quality parts. Bearing this in mind, do not hesitate to check out our collection and kick off the procurement process at any time.