Self-Clinching Panel Fasteners Technical Datasheet
Product Overview
Self-Clinching Panel Fasteners (PF11 equivalent) are captive, spring-loaded fastening assemblies designed to provide quick, tool-free access to electronic enclosures, electrical panels, telecom cabinets, server racks, industrial equipment and sheet metal housings. Once permanently installed into a thin sheet metal panel using a standard press, the fastener remains captive to the removable cover, preventing loss of hardware during maintenance.
The PF11 style incorporates a large knurled aluminium knob for easy finger operation, making it ideal where frequent access is required without the use of tools. The captive screw is retained by a spring and retainer assembly while the self-clinching feature permanently anchors the assembly into the panel. Typical construction includes an aluminium cap, hardened carbon steel retainer, stainless steel spring, and stainless steel screw.
Table of Contents
ITEM CODE: 5014
Standards
Primary Standard: PEM® Type PF11 equivalent
Installation
- Prepare properly sized mounting hole in sheet.
- Do not perform any secondary operations such as deburring.
- Place fastener into recessed anvil, and place workpiece (preferably the punch
side) over shank of fastener. - With installation punch and anvil surfaces parallel, apply squeezing force until
the shoulder of the retainer comes in contact with the sheet material.
Dimensions
| Thread Size x Pitch | Screw Length Code | A Max. | Min Sheet Thickness | D Hole Size In Sheet +0.08 | C max | E ±0.25 | G ±0.64 | T₁ Nom. | T₂ Nom. | Driver Size | Min. Dist Hole to Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M3 x 0.5 | 0 | 0.92 | 0.92 | 5.56 | 5.54 | 10.59 | 4..32 | 7.87 | 11.43 | #1 | 7.11 |
| 1 | 5.84 | ||||||||||
| 2 | 7.37 | ||||||||||
| M3.5 x 0.6 | 0 | 0.92 | 0.92 | 6.35 | 6.33 | 11.43 | 5.84 | 11.43 | 16.26 | #2 | 7.37 |
| 1 | 7.37 | ||||||||||
| 2 | 8.89 | ||||||||||
| M4 x 0.7 | 0 | 0.92 | 0.92 | 7.92 | 7.9 | 13.06 | 5.84 | 11.43 | 16.26 | #2 | 8.38 |
| 1 | 7.37 | ||||||||||
| 2 | 8.89 | ||||||||||
| M5 x 0.8 | 0 | 0.92 | 0.92 | 7.92 | 7.9 | 13.06 | 5.84 | 11.43 | 16.26 | #2 | 8.38 |
| 1 | 7.37 | ||||||||||
| 2 | 8.89 | ||||||||||
| M6 x 1 | 0 | 0.92 | 0.92 | 9.53 | 9.5 | 14.61 | 7.37 | 13.46 | 20.07 | #3 | 11.68 |
| 1 | 8.89 | ||||||||||
| 2 | 10.41 |
all dimensions in mm
Download Datasheets
Self Clinching Panel Fastener – PF11
Material
Knob: Aluminum
Retainer: Hardened Carbon Steel
Screw: 400 Series Stainless Steel
Spring: 300 Series Stainless Steel
Technical Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Self-Clinching Captive Panel Fastener |
| Installation Method | Press-In / Self-Clinching |
| Head Style | Large Knurled Thumb Knob |
| Operation | Finger Tightening |
| Screw Type | Spring Loaded Captive Screw |
| Captive Feature | Yes |
| Reusable | Yes |
| Panel Access | Frequent Opening & Closing |
| Thread Sizes | M3, M3.5, M4, M5, M6 (depending on model) |
| Sheet Material | Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminium (within hardness limits) |
| Installation Equipment | Hydraulic or Pneumatic Press |
| Screw Material | Stainless Steel |
| Spring Material | Stainless Steel |
| Retainer Material | Hardened Carbon Steel |
| Knob Material | Aluminium |
| Corrosion Resistance | Good |
Applications
- Electrical Control Panels
- Electronic Enclosures
- Telecom Cabinets
- Server Racks
- Data Centre Equipment
- HVAC Equipment
- Medical Devices
- Instrumentation Panels
- Railway Electronics
- Aerospace Interiors
- Battery Packs
- EV Charging Equipment
- Industrial Automation
- Defence Electronics
Advantages
- Permanently captive screw eliminates loose hardware
- Fast tool-free access using large thumb knob
- Spring-loaded design keeps screw retracted when disengaged
- Suitable for frequent servicing
- Prevents loss of screws during maintenance
- Quick installation using standard press equipment
- No welding required
- Clean professional appearance
- High vibration resistance after installation
- Ideal for repeated opening and closing
- Reduces maintenance time
- Suitable for automated production
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a self-clinching panel fastener?
It is a captive, spring-loaded screw assembly permanently installed into sheet metal using a press. The screw remains attached to the panel even when fully disengaged.
What is the panel fastener used for?
PF11 equivalent panel fasteners are widely used on access covers requiring frequent opening and closing, such as electrical cabinets, telecom equipment and industrial enclosures.
Does the screw fall out after opening?
No. The captive design prevents the screw from separating from the panel.
Is any special tool required during operation?
No. The large knurled knob is designed for finger tightening and loosening.
How is the fastener installed?
The retainer is permanently clinched into a properly sized hole using a hydraulic or pneumatic press.
Can it be installed into stainless steel sheets?
Yes, provided the sheet hardness is within the installation limits and appropriate installation procedures are followed.
Is the fastener reusable?
Yes. The captive screw assembly is intended for repeated maintenance cycles.
What thread sizes are available?
Typical sizes include M3, M3.5, M4, M5 and M6, with imperial versions also available depending on the series.
Need Technical Assistance or a Quote?
Looking for pricing, samples, CAD drawings, or help selecting the right fastener? Our team can help you choose the correct product for your application.
📧 sales@horizonincindia.com | 📞 +91 80 4117 9152 | 💬 +91 99167 77262
Related Products
- Self Clinching Studs
- Self Clinching Standoffs
- Self Clinching Nuts
- Self Clinching Blind Fasteners
- Captive Panel Screws
- Nut Inserts
- Weld Studs
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