New secure joining systems provide maximum security – Cannot be dismantled using conventional means – Reduce costs by eliminating supplementary assembly and security material – Ensure easy interchangeability with existing joining systems

In light of the anticipated increased use of lightweight materials and high-strength steels in automobile production, Hetal-Werke has resolved to devote attention to new joining concepts as the ATP^® TriPress components from Arnold Umformtechnik that reduces assembly times by 75%.

In situations where fastening components are needed, design and development departments in the automobile and electronics industries are faced with the challenge of reducing costs by using innovative fastener technologies. Along with the availability of innovative products, access to design data in electronic form is increasingly important. This is essential for the time- and cost-efficient implementation of the design process (Figure 1).

The VDA 19 guideline and the ISO 16232 standard define new requirements for the automobile industry for verifying technical cleanliness. To fulfil these requirements, manufacturers must identify and quantify any particle contamination that is present. The Cleancon^® cleanliness concept from Arnold Umformtechnik goes a step further and provides a process that encompasses cleanliness requirements all the way from production to the customer application.

Taptite 2000^® generation of thread forming screws combines efficiency advantages with process reliability. A total cost saving of up to 88% can be achieved in threaded fastener assembly.

With its Fastener Testing Centre, Arnold Umformtechnik offers its customers and other interested parties a full range of services for all aspects of the inspection, testing, measuring and qualification of metallic components. This application-specific division combines high-quality analysis with expert assessment and advice.

Remform screws from Arnold Umformtechnik GmbH & Co. reduce the overall assembly cost of plastic parts as they do not require nuts or inserts. They furthermore ensure the highest levels of assembly security, due to a specific design that creates a large difference between the forming torque and the stripping torque. The main application of REMFORM for plastic parts assembly is the automotive industry.

We’ve all had annoying experiences with loose threaded fasteners, such as loose screws in eyeglasses or door handles. In the worst case, they can even lead to truly hazardous situations. With its innovative ThreadLoc system, Arnold Umformtechnik has now developed a unique complete range of chemical and mechanical thread locking technologies that can meet the need for keeping screws and bolts tight in every situation.

The automotive division of Hetal-Werke, located in Alpirsbach (Germany), is intensively looking for alternatives to conventional joint technologies. In the future, ATP^® TriPress fasteners from Arnold Umformtechnik are expected to be used in place of conventional weld-on studs. These press-in studs match the requirements profile of the company, which specialises in the full scope of kinematic subassemblies and hinges in the passenger car seating area.

Alufast^® aluminium screws from Arnold Umformtechnik are especially advantageous for joining magnesium components: transmission, housing, load-bearing, stiffening... Especially with material pairs exposed to thermal stress, they significantly enhance the security of threaded fastener joints. Furthermore, Alufast^® aluminium screws weigh only one-third as much as equivalent steel screws. Particularly with large volumes the weight savings can amount to the equivalent of several metric tons of steel per year.