Screws for plastic: How to select fasteners for plastic joints
by Lokesh Kumar, Eisen Electric Corp.
Design Engineers are often challenged to find the right type of fastener for the right application. Two of the biggest challenges are lack of experience and information. This article, the EES-0041 Screws for Plastic Eisen Design Engineering Guide, will give you the information you need to classify the type of plastic joint, and then assist in selection of a fastener that is adequate, and trouble-free. Availability of materials and time limitations can also affect which fastener gets chosen. Most joints can be categorized into static and dynamic loaded. The four common threaded fasteners used in plastics are thread forming, high-low, thread cutting and self-tapping screws. Inserts are popular in dynamic joints and serviceable parts.