Clinch fastening for land-rover
September 1st 2006

Already using Profil's pierce fastening methods in Discovery and Defender models, Land Rover has specified a further 145 of the company's clinch nuts and studs for use in the assembly of its new Freelander 2 models.

The Freelander 2 makes extensive use of high strength (600 to 800MPa) steel panels at the rear of the vehicle and in safety critical impact areas around door apertures.

Adrian Ellis, sales manager, says "In addition to ensuring a secure door hinge and seat anchorages in this material, Profil pierce fasteners provide a variety of high strength, vibrationresistant mountings in areas such as the gear change console, front bulkhead and cross members.

"Thanks to our fasteners' clinching action, Land- Rover has been able to specify standard type RND nuts, even in 2mm thick 600MPa panels at the base of the 'A' pillar."

Additional benefits offered by Profil fasteners include the ability to accommodate panel thicknesses from 0.6 to 4mm. They are equally suitable for use with coated or uncoated materials, high tensile, stainless and sandwich steels, and can be installed in aluminium and magnesium castings.

Ellis adds "The use of automatic sensing in the press ensures that no components are made without the required fasteners being correctly installed."