Tools

Mechanical Engineering Calculators you Need to Add to Your Toolbox

Mechanical engineer design

Your choice of fastener has a big impact on Design for Manufacturability and bolted joint design. Fastener selection requires careful planning to avoid product failure and manage quality and cost of your assembly.  With Bossard’s readily-available inventory of over 200,000 different screws, nuts, washers, pins, rivets, threaded inserts, screws, clip fasteners, surface bonding fasteners, clinching solutions, and multiple other industrial accessories, taking advantage of the Bossard tools and calculators below can help you choose the right one.

As a mechanical engineer, you have a lot to consider in your design.  Material to be joined, Clamp load, Stress, Temperature, Shear, Torque, Coefficient of friction, Corrosion – Solving any of these design problems can be made a lot easier using multiple Bossard calculators and converters. These ready-made tools are heavily relied upon by engineers, technicians, designers, project managers, and students and are outlined below.

Bossard Online Converters

The following Bossard online converters are used to convert various units of measure.

  • Length Converter: This converter accesses upwards of 68 different units of measure and converts inches, centimeters, meters, miles, KMs, feet, yards, etc.
  • Torque Converter: Calibrated torque wrenches are essential in some industries. This tool converts different torque values such as kilonewton meter, newton meter, newton centimeter, kilogram-force meter, once force inch, etc.
  • Pressure Converter: Bossard’s pressure converter converts various pressure units such as PSI, bar, millibar, pascal, ton/square foot, pound/square foot, etc.
  • Force Converter: Another simple-to-use converter that can convert newton, meganewton, kilonewton, dyne, kilogram-force, ounce force, etc.
  • Metric to Inch Fastener Converter: Ideal solution for converting metric to inch fastener forces.
  • Hardness Converter: Ideal tool for hardness-to-hardness measurement (Rockwell, Brinell, Vickers) and hardness-to-tensile strength conversion of cast iron and low-alloy steels.

Online Calculators for Design/Production

Bossard offers a comprehensive line of online calculators for technical design and production requirements.

  • Metric Thread Profile Calculator: This calculator is based on ISO 965-1:1998, ISO 68-1:1998, and ASME B1.13M-2005, allowing you to calculate metric thread geometry.
  • Pilot Hole Design for Metric Thread Formers: DIN 7500:2009 calculator for calculating hole size for metric thread forming screws.
  • Selection of Material and Coatings for Corrosion Protection: Ideal for any situation where choosing protective coatings is critical to corrosion protection.
  • Drill Hole Size for Tapped Threads: Instantly calculates the proper tap drill size for screws.
  • Pilot Hole Design for Tapping Screws: Calculates the ideal hole diameter for tapping screws.
  • Pilot Hole Design for ecosyn®-Plast: Calculator determines boss geometry for thermoplastic resin types for ecosyn®-plast.
  • Tolerances for Shafts and Holes: Easily calculate hole and shaft tolerances.

Online Calculators for Technical Design

  • Estimation of Bolt Size and Property Class: Calculator to determine the required diameter and property class.
  • Disc Spring Calculator: DIN-2093 Calculator for disc springs with geometry, values, and properties.
  • Cost Savings Calculator: Insightful tool allows you to calculate activity costs and uncover potential savings.
  • Thread Engagement Length Calculator: Simple calculator for calculating thread engagement for blind-hole and through-hole to determine sufficient thread engagement length.
  • Torque and Preload With Nut Factor: Uses basic formula of T = D*K*F to calculate tightening torque and preload with nut factor for screws (inches).
  • Torque and Preload with Nut Factor and Tool Accuracy – Inch: Allows you to calculate tightening torque and preload using the formula T = D*K*F mean.
  • Torque and Preload with Nut Factor and Tool Accuracy – Metric: Same tool as above but in metric.
  • Torque and Preload with Friction Scatter: Calculator based on VDI 2230: 2014 that calculates tightening torque for hex and socket head screws.
  • Torque and Preload for Customized Geometry and Material: Another calculator based on VDI 2230:2014. This one calculates pressure, preload, and tightening torque for socket head and countersunk screws by accounting for multiple head shapes, materials reduced, chanks, and hole champers.
  • Torque and Preload Calculator: Yet another calculator incorporating VDI 2230:2014, capable of calculating tightening torque, surface pressure, and preload values for head and socket head screws.

Each of these tools is accessible to all and free to use under the terms as set forth under Imprint. If you need any guidance, help, or have questions about a new project of yours, contact us today and speak with a Bossard Assembly Technology Expert.

 

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February 24, 2023
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How the SFC Koenig Expander Sealing Plug Can Save You Money

Koenig check valves-plug

Today, finding ways to reduce costs and create efficiencies is more important than ever. Fortunately, the team at Bossard offers a number of innovative solutions designed to help you do just that. And one of our leading solutions is the Koenig Expander Sealing Plug. Across the world, the Koenig-Expander is recognized as a cutting-edge solution for quickly, efficiently, and reliably sealing drilled holes or creating flow control in fluid systems. Let’s take a closer look at how the SFC Koenig Expander sealing plug can save you money. 

The Koenig Expander Tool Offers an Array of Money-Saving Benefits

As the premier solution for reliable and quick sealing of drilled holes, the Koenig Expander tool is uniquely engineered to create efficiencies and save your company money. Here are a few key ways this innovative solution can create savings:

  1. Process reliability in installation. As a world-renowned solution, the Koenig Expander Tool boasts exceptional reliability across all applications. 
  2. Super-efficient setup. Setting up the Koenig Expander tool is easy and is designed to save time, which leads to reduced labor costs.
  3. Available in a vast range of materials. Whether you need marine fasteners or a solution for other applications, the Koenig Expander tool is available in a vast array of materials. And the team at Bossard can help you customize your Koenig Expander to best meet the application requirements. 
  4. Versatility comes standard. The Koenig Expander Sealing Plug is extremely versatile and can be used to meet the requirements for the widest possible range of applications. This universal applicability means it can be used in more ways than one, which can reduce inventory costs and streamline processes. 

A Quick Look at the Koenig Expander Sealing Plug

While the Koenig Expander Sealing Plug is available in an array of materials, they all share one thing in common — exceptional versatility. No matter the substrate, the Koenig Expander works to permanently resist even the most extreme pressures and loads.

  1. Designed for use in base materials of high and low hardness (up to 450 bar pressure), anchorage and expansion of the sleeve in the hole wall in the MB Series is achieved by pressing the ball into the sleeve. 
  2. The CV Series Expander plugs are offered in inch sizes, metric sizes, as well as in different surface treatments and materials. Anchorage and expansion of sleeve in hole wall are also attained by pressing the ball into the sleeve. 
  3. Using the tension/expansion concept, the LK Series is perfect for lower pressure applications (max 60 bar). Once sufficient force is achieved, the expanding element instinctively breaks off at the preset breaking point. 
  4. Suitable for use in high-pressure applications (up to 500 bar) and in light metals, the SK Series also functions based on the tension/expansion concept — where breaking off of the expanding element occurs after achieving sufficient force. 
  5. Suitable for lower pressures, the versatile press-fit and anchoring concept of the LP Series utilizes a conical press-in sleeve. In the installation process, it adapts to the bore while the exterior serration bites into the bore wall.  

The Versatility of the SFC Koenig Expander Tool

The Koenig Expander was originally engineered for use in plugging hydraulic assemblies. Today, this cutting-edge plug is the established and the preferred solution for sealing and flow control in hydraulic systems across a vast expanse of industries and applications, including:

  • Braking systems 
  • Suspension systems
  • Engines
  • Gearboxes
  • Transmission
  • Fuel injection systems
  • Steering systems 

Contact Bossard today to learn more about the Koenig Expander sealing plug. 

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March 11, 2022
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What Installation Equipment Should I Use for Blind Rivet Nut Applications?

Installation of a blind rivet nut

When you come to Bossard for fastening solutions, our engineers may recommend rivet nuts, which typically have access from two sides. Blind rivet nuts allow access only from one side making them suitable for more flexible applications in agriculture, residential lighting, trucking and transportation, mining, and solar or green energy, among others. They’re useful, for example, when you want to join brittle or thin materials that may shatter with ordinary nuts.

Choosing the correct blind rivet nut is one half of the fastening solution. The other is selecting the right installation.

Types of Tools

The following are some of the most popular options from our tooling portfolio:

  • Spin/spin tool: After you thread the blind rivet nut onto the mandrel of the pneumatic power tool, the tool inserts the nut into the hole of your application. The tool then spins the mandrel to pull the threaded part of the shank to the blind side of the application, which creates a bulge around the unthreaded part. As the bulge pushes against the rear of the panel, it grips the sheet. After securing the nut in place, the mandrel removes itself from the nut by spinning in the opposite direction. The internal threads of the nut remain unaffected.
  • Spin/pull tool: Pulls the mandrel back a specific distance to set the nut.
  • Pull to pressure” or “force control” tool: Pulls the mandrel back to a specific pressure.
  • Pull to stroke” or “stroke control” tool: Pulls the mandrel back to a specific stroke distance or thickness.

More Considerations

Other questions to ask when deciding on installation equipment include the following:

  • What are the sizes of the blind rivet nuts? We offer M3 to M12, or, if you prefer, can deliver specifications in inches.
  • Do you prefer the control and finesse of hand tools or the efficiency and strength of battery-powered or pneumatic tools?
  • What materials are you fastening? Aluminum, steel, stainless steel, or high-strength steel need different equipment. For example, spin/pull tools are ideal for fastening plastic components and pull-to-pressure tools work well for metal or hard plastic.
  • What other options do you want: real-time process monitoring with multistage programming, force/stroke curve documentation, upgrade modules like Wi-Fi or barcode readers?

Want to learn more? Then please use the form to the right to contact us and a Bossard representative will get in touch with you shortly.

October 18, 2019
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4 Recommendations for Installing Self-Drilling Screws

Self Drilling Screws

Self-drilling screws are unique, multi-functional screws. They are designed to drill its own hole into metal and then form threads into the hole. Often used for attachment of steel siding or roofing, they can also be used in other applications where a premade hole is not possible or convenient. While these screws can be a great solution for your application, here are 4 things to keep in mind:

1. Length of Drill Flute

The length of the drill flute must be longer than the thickness of the material being drilled. If the material is too thick, the chips cannot escape, which will cause excessive heat and damage to the screw or mating material. The point length must be long enough to complete the drilling operation before threading starts, otherwise damage may occur.

2. Thread Pitch

For thinner sheet metal applications, a coarse thread (wider thread spacing) is recommended. For thicker metal, (3/8 to 1/2″ thick) a fine thread will work better, creating less drive torque.

3. Thread Length

The thread length of the screw should be sufficient to fully engage into the base metal, keeping in mind that the first few threads are not fully formed. Two to three threads should show on the back side of the base material.

4. Installation Tools

Specialty-corded and cordless tools are available specifically for drill screws which run up to 2500 RPMs for fast setting of screws. Standard drills or drivers may be used as well, but impact drivers are not recommended for hard joint applications that are considered structural. Depth gages are often incorporated into the nose of the tool to disengage the head after it has been properly set. Some tools may also have an adjustable clutch that will allow for proper setting torque.

Do you have an aluminum or stainless-steel application which requires corrosion resistant self-drilling screws? Checkout our ecosyn®-MRX screw!

Looking for a self drilling screw supplier, or have additional questions? Contact us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com!

For more shopping options click here.

Doug Jones
Applications Engineer
djones@bossard.com

September 21, 2018
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What You Need to Know About Thread Engagement in Blind Holes

Thread Engagement in Blind Holes

Nuts are designed with a specific proof load strength and thickness that when paired with the proper grade or property class of bolt, the nut will always be stronger. This is good joint design, but what precautions should be taken when designing without nuts and into blind threaded holes?

The main things you need to be concerned with when designing joints with tapped holes are material strength and thread engagement. Generally, you are stuck with a specific material, so the one variable you can change is the depth of thread engagement. Below is a rough guide take from IFI’s “Mechanical Fastening and Joining” handbook by Bengt Blendulf:

Thread Engagement Chart

Tapped Material 8.8/grade 5 10.9/grade 8 12.9/alloy
Steel, hardened 0.8-0.9d 0.9-1.0d 1.0-1.3d
Steel, medium carbon 0.9-1.0d 1.0-1.2d 1.2-1.5d
Steel, low carbon 1.0-1.2d 1.2-1.4d
Cast iron (grey) 1.0-1.2d 1.2-1.4d
Light alloys 1.3-1.6d

For more information on thread engagement, check out our technical section at www.bossard.com and try out our thread engagement calculator which is also available as an iPhone app, or contact us at ProvenProductivity@Bossard.com.

Doug Jones
Applications Engineer
Email: djones@bossard.com

May 11, 2018
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What’s the Difference Between Kits and Assemblies?

Kits & Assemblies

The difference between a kit and an assembly is quite simple:

  1. An assembly is taking two or more parts and combining them together to form one ultimate part.
  2. A kit is combining two or more components and either bagging or boxing them together. Typically, this gives the end user the ability to easily assemble the parts without confusion.

Kitting and assembling components is a task that typically involves multiple different items, and can take up a lot of time for both your employees and your company. Every item has its mate and place in different applications and if it isn’t done properly, it can potentially cause a butterfly effect. The result will be failures due to incorrect assembly, loss of production due to having to stop, and having to locate the proper part because it wasn’t kitted correctly.

Kits and assemblies need to be done right. It takes patience, attention to detail, and are extremely time consuming. If you feel you have a kit or assembly opportunity that you need assistance with, please contact Bossard at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com.

 

Eric Barfels
Technical Sales
Ebarfels@bossard.com

April 06, 2018
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How To Improve Your BOM

BOM

What is one of the most asked questions we receive from a new potential customer? “How hard is it for me to get the right fastener in my bins?” There are a lot of things that go into making sure this process runs smoothly.

Good communication about what is needed for a quote is crucial. A good quote process begins with a Bill of Materials (BOM), the Estimated Average Usage (EAU), quality understanding, and an estimated deadline. The BOM should be clean and detailed with dimensions, head styles, drive styles, product types, materials, and finishes.

Every customer has their own way of abbreviating the information to a short description, so paying attention to the details is key. Some fasteners may also be used in a variety of applications. Understanding the business and having a grasp of the BOM will help make sure the right fastener is in the production line. As mentioned earlier, estimated usage, quality requirements, and a reasonable deadline will help with getting the most accurate quote back for review.

What will it take for you to win business, save the company money, and prevent line down situations when switching fastener vendors? Ordering AND receiving the correct parts the first time! Let the experts at Bossard help you review and translate the terminology of a sloppy BOM and get you the correct fastener the first time around. Contact us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com for more information.

 

John Syharath
Technical Sales
jsyharath@bossard.com

March 23, 2018
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How Smart is Your Factory? Do you have the ARIMS system?

ARIMS system with Bossard

At Bossard, we work to make your factory and company better and smarter. We have a Smart Factory Logistics system that pulls a bunch of elements together to make your factory run as smoothly as possible. We work to get you the materials you need when you need them so you can make products faster.

Our Smart Factory Logistics methodology helps you be more productive. One big part of this approach is our ARIMS system. This system helps us help you gain complete control of your production process. The ARIMS software is the operation dashboard of Smart Factory Logistics.

ARIMS helps you track your orders, manage your stock levels and view your analytics. This software is the brain behind our SmartBin systems. As you may know, our SmartBin system automates ordering parts by measuring and managing your stock in real-time; the ARIMS system is what makes all this possible.

Important features of the ARIMS system include:

  • B2B ERP integration ready
  • Real time data
  • Personalized dashboard
  • Graphical analysis and reports
  • Mobile app for smart devices
  • Operation dashboard
  • Interactive program management
  • Last-mile operation dashboard

If you are looking to increase the productivity of your factory, look no further. With Bossard, Smart Factory Logistics and our ARIMS system provide you with increased productivity, and it’s proven in the results. Contact us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com to start the conversation about improving your factory.

 

November 04, 2016
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Bossard Online Calculators

bossard online calculators

Bossard takes pride in living up to our “Proven Productivity” name, which is why we have made the design process even easier for you. It can be difficult to start a project when measurements aren’t all universal. Our calculators and converters are designed for engineers, technicians, designers and students involved in the development and assembly of bolted joint.

Here on our website, we have various free calculators and converters for you to take advantage of. There are even more if you create a username and password.

With our online converters, you can convert different units of measure to make your design process quick and easy. Check out our calculators on our website, Bossard.com, and be sure to download the Bossard Fastener Calculator in the App Store.

There are three calculators available to you through our website and app.

Cost Savings Calculator – You can calculate direct savings by reducing the number of different fasteners. Check out our blog on TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) and Fastening to learn more about the costs that go into engineering and producing fasteners.

Torque and Preload Calculator – It’s important to know the parameters to successfully work with screws and bolts. The calculations are essential in assembly and joints.

Thread Engagement Length Calculator – The proper design for nuts and bolts is crucial for successful results. Use this calculator to for concise measurements for through hole and blind hole fasteners.

Explore Bossard.com and find calculators for design and production, technical design, and online converters.

Trying to get the proper measurements for an upcoming project? Contact us anytime at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com with questions and concerns—we have you covered. We want to make sure our customers have the best experience with our products and services. For frequent updates and useful information about Bossard, please subscribe to our blog.


October 07, 2016
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Bossard Online Calculators

Bossard online converters

Bossard takes pride in living up to our “Proven Productivity” name, which is why we have made the design process even easier for you. It can be difficult to start a project when measurements aren’t all universal. Our calculators and converters are designed for engineers, technicians, designers and students involved in the development and assembly of bolted joint.

Here on our website, we have various free calculators and converters for you to take advantage of. There are even more if you create a username and password.
With our online converters, you can convert different units of measure to make your design process quick and easy. Check out our calculators on our website, Bossard.com, and be sure to download the Bossard Fastener Calculator in the App Store.

There are three calculators available to you through our website and app.

Cost Savings Calculator – You can calculate direct savings by reducing the number of different fasteners. Check out our blog on TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) and Fastening to learn more about the costs that go into engineering and producing fasteners.

Torque and Preload Calculator – It’s important to know the parameters to successfully work with screws and bolts. The calculations are essential in assembly and joints.

Thread Engagement Length Calculator – The proper design for nuts and bolts is crucial for successful results. Use this calculator to for concise measurements for through hole and blind hole fasteners.

Explore Bossard.com and find calculators for design and production, technical design, and online converters.

Trying to get the proper measurements for an upcoming project? Contact us anytime at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com with questions and concerns—we have you covered. We want to make sure our customers have the best experience with our products and services. For frequent updates and useful information about Bossard, please subscribe to our blog.


April 22, 2016
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