Posted to News on 1st Oct 2010, 11:52
Retained fasteners for guards on aluminium frameworks
Machine Building Systems is now supplying the Item Safety Fastening Set Multiblock 8 that features a captive screw for securing machine guards in line with the new Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and European standard EN 953, both of which require fixing systems to remain attached to the guards or machinery when the guards are removed.
Each fastening set has a flanged, button-head M6 screw (bright zinc-plated steel) with a necked shank. After the screw has been installed through a clearance hole in the panel, a stainless steel retaining spring is pushed over the thread to retain the fastener on the panel. This design has the advantage that there is a visual indication if the fastener has not been screwed into position, in that the retaining spring causes the panel to sit proud of the machine frame. Furthermore, it is relatively easy to replace the screw should it become damaged.
This retained fastener is suitable for use with Item Multiblocks 8 PA and Multi Bracket 12 Zn for panel thicknesses of 2-10mm. It can also be used in a conventional M6 tapped hole or captive nut.
