In space, joint loosening or joint failure is not an option. That is why NASA engineers choose Spiralock key inserts to fasten various parts of the main engines of the Space Shuttle, the Saturn Cassini orbiter and Titan Huygens probe. The self-locking internal thread form design resists self-loosening when exposed to harsh environments involving significant…

As the federal government is set to nearly double car and light-duty truck fuel economy standards to the equivalent of 54.5 mpg by 2025, electric vehicle (EV) and hybrid electric vehicle technology will play a vital role—if lingering battery life and overheating issues can be resolved. Battery packs on EV and hybrid vehicles only store…

Ongoing efforts to increase fuel efficiency, tactical mobility, and payload capacity in aerospace design are driving creative efforts to reduce mass through the use of lightweight materials such as composites, aluminum, and plastics. Use of these materials, however, can create compromises, as well as finding safe and reliable ways to fasten assemblies that assure joint…

V-Band Clamps encounter many extremes. When it comes to turbochargers, which are increasingly used in light trucks and cars to deliver the power of a V8 engine in a V6, the clamps seal off hot exhaust, forcing compressed air into the intake. The result is lighter vehicles and better fuel economy. But component temperatures around…

Reprint Info >> As design methods evolve, the fasteners and joining tools available to you change too. Here’s a look at some of the newer offerings. The methods and products available to attach two pieces of a design together are multiple and varied to meet nearly every conceivable need. However, new needs constantly arise. Today’s…

For many years, engine manufacturers experienced major production set backs due to the failure of exhaust manifold joints. These components were typically subject to severe vibration, joint fatigue, and temperature extremes. When turbo mounting nuts shake loose and fall off, the engine fails and that leads to a range of major headaches. Cummins Inc. found…