Manufacturers today are faced with an ever changing market place. It is one where demands of clients are evolving and technology is pushing every production facility to its utmost. To respond to the needs, companies have begun to specialize in earnest. This includes the fastener industry. Specialty fasteners are their response to the increasing need for very specific and special parts.
What Is a Fastener?
A fastener is a common device used to join together to disparate parts or components. It is a mechanical means that need not be sophisticated in order to accomplish its purpose. While the term “fastener” is not used in normal usage except for such things as buttons, safety pins and clip-ons, the actual devices themselves are easily recognized. Many of them are found in the average household tool box and include:
* Nuts
* Bolts
* Screws
* Latches
They are made of steel, stainless steel, aluminum and even plastic. They may even be formed from brass and various alloys. They all serve a purpose. Yet, the average tool box rarely contains specialty fasteners.
What Are Specialty Fasteners?
In the world of fasteners, specialty fasteners are the elite. They are fasteners, it is true, but they are created on a daily basis to meet the growing and specialized demands of industries. Unlike a regular fastener, specialty fasteners must achieve a high standard of quality in order to perform their specific tasks. They must adhere to various principles and fulfill certain demands. They may also be custom made to provide the attributes of the industry. The aerospace industry, for example, has very stringent specifications for their fasteners. The average fastener for your cupboard or door is not required to match those demanded by the engineers in this industry.
Metals and Specialty Fasteners
Specialty fasteners, while fulfilling their initial purpose – fastening together at least two objects, must be capable of withstanding certain environmental forces. They need to be durable, versatile and resistant to creep and temperature alterations. In other words, specialty fasteners must be able to withstand everything that is thrown at them. To accomplish this is made easier through the selection of the metal. The most common metals employed, and they must be of high quality both in production and standards, are:
* Aluminum
* Stainless Steel
* Carbon Steel
* Titanium – very commonly employed in the aerospace industry
Each particular metal is selected for its properties. In general, however, they are chosen in accordance with their ability to resist corrosion, withstand temperature changes and increase the overall durability and longevity of the parts they are holding together.
Specialty Fasteners
The creation of specialty fasteners is not static. It is a growing industry that has to respond to the needs and demands of its clients if it is to survive. With increased specialization and technological innovations, the producers of specialty fasteners can only respond with further advancements if it is to continue to develop and thrive in this ever changing world.
Matdan Corporation is a worldwide frontrunner in providing specialty fasteners to the aerospace, automotive, electronics, medical and military industries. Our customer-driven solutions have helped us establish successful long-term customer partnerships. Our quality products, superior service and ability to deliver on-time has helped make us what we are today.
