The fixing method for sheet metal housings needs to be selected based on whether it is detachable,
strength requirements, sealing/aesthetic needs, and the installation object. The mainstream solutions are as follows:
I. Inter-sheet Connection (Housing Body Assembly)
Welding (Permanent Fixing) – Applicable to: High-rigidity, high-sealing integrated structures (such as machine tool guards, cabinet bodies).
Process: Primarily argon arc welding/laser welding; heat deformation needs to be controlled; post-weld shaping and surface treatment are often required.
Riveting (Permanent/Semi-Permanent)
Types: Broom rivets, TOX rivetless connections, drilled hole riveting; Advantages: Does not damage the plating, no heat-affected zone, suitable for automation.
Bolt/Screw Connection (Detachable)
Ordinary Bolts + Nuts: Requires pre-drilled through holes; used for parts requiring frequent maintenance;
Pressure-fit Fasteners (Mainstream Industrial Solution): Press-fit screws/studs/nuts (such as PEM standards) into thin plates to form strong internal/external threads, then lock them to the opposite side; supports countersunk head design, smooth surface. – Self-tapping screws: Directly tap into pre-drilled holes in thin plates, low cost but weak vibration resistance, mostly used for non-critical or temporary fixing.
Crimp/Folded Edge Connection – Unique to ducts, simple enclosures, etc., relies on mechanical interlocking of edges, requiring no additional parts, but with limited strength.
II. Housing to Frame/Base Installation
Industrial Aluminum Profile Frame Scenarios:
1. T-bolts + flange nuts (for bent edge installation); 2. Pressure strips/U-shaped channels are inserted into the profile channels for tightening (no drilling required, good sealing);
Spacer connecting blocks + semi-circular head bolts (suitable for straight edge installation);
Hinges + bolts (for cabinet door moving parts).
Body/Equipment Body Installation: Temporary positioning can be done with pliers/spot welding, permanent fixing preferably uses press-fit screws or special elastic clips (such as leaf spring nuts used in automotive interiors).
Key Considerations for Selection:
Sheet Thickness Matching: For example, M3 countersunk screws are commonly used for 2.0–2.3mm sheets; a ≥12mm hole clearance is required near bends to prevent cracking.
Maintainability: Avoid full welding in areas requiring disassembly and inspection; a combination of press-fit and external screws is recommended.
Corrosion Resistance Continuity: Prioritize cold connections such as TOX and press-fit to avoid welding damage to the coating.
Note: Specific process parameters (hole positions, torque, clearance) should be verified using CAM programming based on drawings and materials (SPCC/SECC/aluminum, etc.) to prevent assembly interference caused by unfolding deformation.
These are the mainstream fixing methods for sheet metal shells. If you have large-scale custom sheet metal shell needs, you can entrust the production to Mulan Manufacturing Group. Mulan Manufacturing Group has 13 years of experience in sheet metal parts production and processing, and has long-term shipments to Europe, America, Japan, and South Korea. We have complete certifications and look forward to your cooperation and consultation.
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