Exhibition News

A self-extruding high strength screw 27 March 2019

TR Fastenings, the global engineer, manufacturer and distributor of industrial fasteners, has designed, developed and patented a new fastening solution, the EPW thread forming screw for thin sheet metal.

EPW is a self-extruding, high strength thread form fastener, which creates its own female thread in punched sheet metal, thereby dramatically reducing assembly times and costs. The screw works by being aligned to the pilot hole in the sheet metal, where it then forms the extruded collar, combining the forming of the thread and the creation of a strong extruded profile, before finally tightening and clamping into the metal.

The key benefits of the EPW screw include:

  • Removable and reusable strong screw joint.
  • High stripping torque.
  • High break loose and prevailing torque.
  • Excellent vibration resistance.
  • Combined thread forming and creation of strong extruded profile.
  • Very high radial compression on screw shank.
  • Standard machine screws can be used in the thread created by the EPW screw.
  • Can be used for electrical earth connections.
  • Suitable for both manual and automated assembly.

The EPW screw is designed to function best in thin sheet materials, typically steel (0.4mm – 1mm thick) and aluminium (0.4mm – 1.5mm thick). It is available in a variety of surface coatings from standard zinc plating to zinc nickel and organic zinc flake for higher corrosion resistance. The screw is also suitable for use in a variety of applications for home appliances, automotive, electronics, technology, energy, medical, telecoms and general industry sectors.

Depending on size, the minimum economical manufacturing quantity is approximately 20,000 pieces.

“We are committed to providing the highest possible service to our customers, both in terms of the quality products we manufacture and how we deliver and distribute those products. The development and launch of the new EPW screw is a culmination of the hard work and talent of our TR VIC Italy design team, as well as the significant investment TR has made in the factory. The EPW screw will allow customers to make significant improvements to their manufacturing processes, reduce production times, and increase efficiency and cost‑effectiveness,” explains Karol Gregorczyk, TR VIC sales and development director.

Editor

Claire Aldridge Editor t: +44 (0) 1727 743 889

Biog

Having spent a decade in the fastener industry experiencing every facet – from steel mills, fastener manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, as well as machinery builders and plating + coating companies, Claire has developed an in-depth knowledge of all things fasteners.

Alongside visiting numerous companies, exhibitions and conferences around the world, Claire has also interviewed high profile figures – focusing on key topics impacting the sector and making sure readers stay up to date with the latest developments within the industry.