Fastening, Joining & Assembly News

Unbelievably challenging to assemble, today's commercial jets require thousands of fasteners to become airworthy. To simplify assembly, France's Airbus uses a fastener kitting system that color codes fasteners. This time-saving approach essentially error proofs fastener installation and facilitates joint variation via various grip lengths.

Formed threads can be the optimal cost-effective way to fasten both solid and hollow-walled components. This recent Fastener Technology International article "Formed Threads!" examines process options in detail and provides a comprehensive list of recommended applications. The threaded fasteners shown feature relief notches.

Simulating how components connect just got a bit easier thanks to this simulation software incorporated in Autodesk's digital prototyping package. Enhanced features for V23.1 include better simulation of multicomponent assemblies. Users have more control over ways to connect adjacent components, plus a broader range of analysis.

PLM software helped create a digital infrastructure for design, maintenance, and manufacturing of the JSF (Joint Strike Fighter). It supports build/design anywhere capabilities through improved collaboration and innovation. It accommodates design and manufacturing changes. Software provides live integration with Microsoft Office, MCAD, and ECAD.

A standardized adhesive CAD symbol simplifies specifying adhesives on CAD drawings. Download an executable plug-in for AutoCAD and TurboCAD. The Adhesive and Sealant Council (ASC) Web site has short videos on activating and using the symbol. Read international standard ASTM D7447-08 — Standard Practice for Symbolizing Adhesive Applications.

Reinforced with <50 nm-diameter silica particles, a UV-curable adhesive delivers improved optical clarity and strength/abrasion resistance, and less shrinkage. UV light cures the one-part adhesive without heat, yielding a low CTE material that withstands -60 to 300 F. Postcuring boosts chemical and temperature resistance.

Significant progress has been made to replace lead-based solders in automotive electronics (banned by 2011 by EU directive). At the Edison Welding Institute, both fluxless ultrasonic soldering and lead-free solders present green solutions. Ultrasonic vibrations create cavitation at a soldering tool's tip, dispersing oxides without flux.

Following recommended procedures during SMAW (submerged metal arc welding) can prevent even the smallest electrical shocks. One of the most used processes to join a variety of metals, SMAW uses a powerful electric arc to melt metals. Following safe procedures precludes potential problems. [Access to this article may require a short registration.]

Companies in the fastener industry are experiencing melting of "their market share iceberg" says Harry E. Taylor, Manchester Consulting Group. Companies must adapt to constantly changing business conditions and industry trends in order to survive. To see what fastening innovations are changing markets, Taylor suggests using U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and other global databases to better track trends and leverage them to increase market share. Numerous fastener examples are presented.

University of Utah researchers have demonstrated that a nonintrusive microelectrode array placed over the human brain can allow the paralyzed and amputees to move prosthetic limbs, and perhaps even allow the mute to speak. In operation, the device picks up signals from the brain, which a computer then decodes to control robotic limbs or ultimately create artificial speech. The microelectrodes were formed in grid-like arrays embedded in rubbery clear silicone, with optimal spacing of 2 to 3 millimeters between electrodes.

Adequate Welding Inspection Procedures?

Welding failures — whether a construction crane collapse or a gas pipeline explosion — are quickly reported in the global news. What steps should be taken to avoid such calamities?