Process Encyclopaedia

Mechanical fastening

Other names / variants: rivets, snap-fits, screws, bolts, nuts
Related processes in this database include: Joining (generic)

Overview

Mechanical joining falls into two distinct groups: fasteners and integral joints. Examples of fasteners include: nuts and bolts, screws, pins and rivets; examples of integral joints include: seams, crimps, snap-fits and shrink-fits.

Some form of mechanical joining needs to be used where products need to be taken apart during their normal life, e.g. where repair or maintenance is likely.

With the move towards efficient recycling, there is likely to be increased use of mechanical fastening.

Materials and shapes

Economics