Thermal Expansion Limits in Aerodynamic Thermoplastic Housing Design
Accommodate thermoplastic thermal expansion using kinematic sliding mounts and recessed lap joints to prevent out-of-plane buckling and boundary layer tripping.
Compression Limiters
Meaning
Metal inserts designed to absorb bolt clamping forces protect plastic or composite components from structural crushing during fastener installation. Installing compression limiters maintains mechanical joint load paths without over-stressing surrounding non-metallic housings. The boundary of application stops at metal-to-metal assemblies where structural material strength inherently withstands standard bolt torque.
Joint Integrity
Component manufacturing contracts specify insert dimensions and wall thickness to guarantee mechanical load limits. Utilizing compression limiters allows plastic automotive manifolds and electrical enclosures to retain tight seal pressure without cracking. When radial compression loads exceed plastic yield strength, the brass or steel insert bears the axial clamp load from the bolt.
Supply contracts mandate strict dimensional tolerances to ensure automated insertion equipment places inserts without damaging surrounding plastic.
Pricing Structure
Bulk fastener pricing structures incorporate material selection and knurling complexity. Supplying compression limiters to tier-one automotive manufacturers requires long-term pricing guarantees tied to raw brass or steel commodity indexes. Distributor margins depend on efficient high-volume cold heading and machining processes.
Assembly Liability
Quality assurance terms establish supplier liability for loose or missing inserts in delivered sub-assemblies. Defective compression limiters cause assembly line stoppages and trigger immediate vendor chargebacks. Component suppliers cover line replacement costs when insert failure damages mating parts.