Engineering
Engineering support for millimetre-scale joints
A drawing tells us the geometry. It does not tell us the clamp load, the service cycles or the resin grade — and that is usually where the problem is.
Services
What we actually do before quoting
Most suppliers quote the drawing as written. We review it first, because a part that is expensive to inspect is usually expensive to make — and often not necessary.
Manufacturability review
We check whether the drawing can be produced repeatably at the tolerance stated — and which callout is driving cost. Feedback comes as marked-up comments, not a rejection.
Tolerance stack analysis
Where the fastener sits in the assembly, what it contributes to the stack, and whether a different head or fit would recover height or alignment.
Joint and torque calculation
Target preload, friction coefficient, strip torque and safety margin computed for the actual mating material and engagement length.
Material and finish selection
Corrosion, friction, conductivity, magnetism and cosmetic requirements translated into a named material and a named coating process.
Prototype and pilot build
Samples from existing tooling in one to three days, with a dimensional report. New tooling in seven to ten working days.
Production ramp support
PPAP documentation, first article inspection, packaging specification and line-side trials for automated driving.
Process
From drawing to production
Six steps, with a defined output at each one. No stage begins before the previous one is agreed.
Send the drawing
PDF drawing plus STEP file, with the mating material and annual volume. A photo of the assembly helps more than a perfect drawing.
Engineering review
Within two working days: feasibility, tolerance comment, process route and any question we need answered.
Quotation
Price by quantity band, tooling cost if required, lead time and the documentation included.
Sample
One to three days from existing tooling; seven to ten for a new die. Dimensional report included.
Validation
Fit and function test in your assembly, torque verification, and any reliability testing required.
Production
Lot release with inspection report, then repeat orders against the frozen drawing.
Common findings
What we usually ask you to change
These come up in a large share of first reviews. None of them is a criticism of the design — they are the difference between a drawing and a manufacturable specification.
| Issue raised at review | Why it matters | Usual resolution |
|---|---|---|
| Head height tolerance tighter than the stack requires | Drives cost with no functional gain | Relax to the nearest achievable band, or change head profile |
| Thread class 6f on a clamping-only joint | Reduces tolerance to coating and raises cost | Use 6g, or add a shoulder for location |
| Coating specified without thickness | Salt spray and thread fit become unpredictable | Name the process and the thickness range |
| No mating material stated | Torque and strip values cannot be verified | State the material grade and engagement length |
| Length measured from the point on a flat head | Ambiguous callout causes inspection disputes | Dimension from the bearing face and state the reference |
| Surface finish required on an uncoated carbon screw | Rust appears before the part reaches the line | Specify a coating or switch to stainless |
| Burr limit not stated | Functional failures in feeders and contacts | State burr height as a fraction of shank diameter |
Technical library
Read before you specify
Three guides that answer most of the questions we receive. They are written for design engineers, not for procurement.
Guide
Micro fastener design guide
Ten rules for designing joints below M3, from wall thickness to drive selection.
Guide
Torque & preload guide
How to calculate a torque window, control friction and measure what you actually applied.
Guide
Prototyping & sampling
What can be sampled from existing tooling, what needs a new die, and how long each takes.
Send the assembly, not just the screw
A drawing plus the mating material, service condition and annual volume is enough for a meaningful review. We reply within two working days.