FASTRIV ® solution for innovative Astra design
FASTRIV ® solution for innovative Astra design
Keyword: Automation
FASTRIV ® fastenings from Aylesbury Automation have been specified for an innovative weight saving side impact bar in the new range of the best-selling Opel Vauxhall Astra (see Plate 5).
To reduce weight yet still maintain integrity, the design of the Opel/Vauxhall Astra called for the introduction of an alloy bar joined to a steel bracket, coupled with a 16kN shear strength.
Plate 5 Fastriv fastenings from Aylesbury Automation join steel to extruded aluminium in side impact bars on the new Vauxhall Astra
Joining steel to extruded aluminium, renowned as one of the most difficult materials to work with, demanded an alternative to welding for these dissimilar metals.
FASTRIV ® is an ideal method of fastening alloy/steel and the FASTRIV® design team, in conjunction with partners Avdel Textron in Germany,specialist machine builder Paro in Switzerland and sub-contractor to Opel,Alusuisse, designed and built the fully automated fastener solution.
The solution meets the key customer requirements:
an assembly speed of 18 components (72 rivets) per minute;
SPC capabilities with process monitoring;
limited manual intervention; and
a consistent quality product.
"We are delighted that the expertise of our engineers and our partner companies enabled the potential benefits of FASTRIV ® to be perceived by Opel/Vauxhall and exploited fully in this exciting and innovative design", said David Ford General Manager of the Fastriv ® Division of Aylesbury Automation.
The most advanced self-pierce riveting fastening available, FASTRIV ® is a mechanical fastening technique which involves the rivets and placing equipment for the assembly of components in a range of materials including aluminium,alloys, steels and compounds without the need for pre-drilled or pre-punched holes.
The main features of the FASTRIV ® system include the ability to automate the assembly process by the joining of alloys as well as pre-coated steels resulting in a joint that is typically stronger in fatigue strength than a traditional spot welded joint.
Because of its unique qualities, the FASTRIV ®self-pierce rivet system opens up new possibilities to industrial designers with fresh design ideas -- it can be used successfully in applications where conventional fastenings are unsuitable. Where new designs require a fastening between dissimilar materials or for coated materials or where extra strength is required, FASTRIV ®offers a new solution.
For fastening pre-coated materials, FASTRIV ® self-pierce rivet systems are proving of exceptional value. For example, Matsushita, Japanese manufacturers of cabinets for washing machines, are using FASTRIV ® for fastening pre-coated materials which are unsuitable for spot welding.
Commercial enquiries should be directed to: Chris Bubb, Commercial Manager,Fastriv ® Division Aylesbury Automation. Tel: +44 (0)1296 314300; Fax: +44(0)1296 482424.
