Ford F-150 2015 - Module 3 - Aluminum Joining Methods; Clinches; Threaded Fasteners

Module�3�-�Aluminum�Joining�MethodsTextbook
2015�Ford�F-150�Structural�Repair�Training�Course�(FOR06) 35
Clinches
Learning�objectives�for�this�module
include:
• explaining�where�a�clinch�may�be
used.
• describing�the�different�types�of
fasteners�used�with�aluminum.
• describing�what�types�of�rivets�are
approved�for�use�on�Ford�vehicles.
• explaining�what�is�required�for
replacing�a�riveted�part.
• describing�why�aluminum�flanges
are�treated�differently�than�steel.
• explaining�what�is�different�with
welding�aluminum�versus�steel.
These�clinches�were�made�by�the�vehicle�maker�on
this�non-structural�part.
Clinches�are�made�by�a�cold�forming
process�where�two�panels�are�pressed
together�to�make�their�own�fastening
system.�A�die�is�used�to�punch�an�imprint
into�a�panel,�and�no�hole�is�made.
Clinches�are�not�used�as�a�structural
attachment�method.�If�a�clinch�comes
loose,�a�hole�is�drilled�through�the�clinch.
Adhesive�and�a�rivet�are�used�tosecure
the�panels.
Threaded�Fasteners
These�are�examples�of�coated�bolts�(left),�and�a�flow
drill�screw�(right).
Generally,�threaded�fasteners�used�on
aluminum�parts�have�a�protective�coating.
The�coating�may�be�green�or�gray.�These
coatings�are�designed�to�insulate�the
steel�fastener�from�the�aluminum�part.�By
offering�an�insulating�barrier,�the�chance
of�galvanic�corrosion�is�reduced.
Because�of�the�coatings�on�the�fasteners,
inspection�is�required�following
removal�to�minimize�corrosion�if
reused.�Always�follow�the�vehicle
maker's�recommendations�when�reusing
fasteners.
A�torque�wrench�is�a�recommended�tool�when
working�with�aluminum.
Threaded�fasteners�should: