Posted to News on 25th Oct 2008, 17:03
Captive fasteners retained by rapid snap-fit technology
Dirak is launching the 1-035SL Captive-Joiner 9.5 Snap-Line, which the company claims offers all the benefits of traditional captive screws but with the added advantages of improved ease of use, reduced installation time, and less risk of damage to sensitive electronic equipment housed inside enclosures.
The Captive-Joiner also functions as a slam-to-close latch, requiring just a simple push of the panel against the frame to ensure secure latching.
Disengaging the two panels is achieved by turning the knob 45degrees instead of the more time-consuming screwing/unscrewing required for traditional captive screws. The knob design offers a comfortable grip for actuation and opening, plus it eliminates the need to install a separate handle. Furthermore, each fastener can be completely removed from both panels on-site and re-installed quickly with a simple push, making it very useful for maintenance applications.
Where misalignment is a concern, the Captive-Joiner compensates for tight tolerances that are otherwise difficult to achieve.
For applications that require restricted access, the Captive-Joiner is available in a tool-operated style (reference NEBS).
Traditional captive screws require inserts, but these can become dislodged if excessive force is applied from the captive screw. Loose inserts can severely damage electronic equipment housed inside an enclosure. However, since the Captive-Joiner does not require an insert, this problem is eliminated.
Cost savings
A clever single-component design combines the function of the captive screw and the captive nut or cage nut. With only one component to inventory, the number of stock numbers is reduced, and the installation process is simplified.
Another neat feature of the design is that it its the standard 9.5 x 9.5mm cutout of 19inch racks, so there is no need to modify the panel design.
Because the Captive-Joiner is easy to install (from one side only, without the need for tools or tooling) and does not require additional processes for installation, the panel can be finished before the Captive-Joiner is installed. The risk of damage to the surface finish is virtually eliminated with the Captive-Joiner's simple, one-step installation process. Also, the Captive-Joiner can be easily installed by hand anywhere along the production line, which eliminates the need for a separate production area for installation.
The Captive-Joiner incorporates Dirak's D-Snap Technology, making it quick and easy to install into the panel - reducing installation time by up to 90 per cent compared with other fixing technologies. Dirak's Snap-Line Captive-Joiners do not require mounting hardware (screw, nuts or bolts) or tools for installation and can be used in blind applications when access to the back of the panel is restricted. They are suitable for applications under extreme vibration conditions, as they will not loosen from the panel. The simple installation process ensures secure installation, resulting in zero-defect assembly, and the reduction in component count means a reduction in cost and inventory.
More information about the Captive-Joiner is available on the Dirak website.
