Torque and integrity in plastic assemblies: compression limiter assemblies (CLA)

One of the challenges when joining plastics is to avoid deformation around the contact point between the plastic and the fastener due to the mechanical stresses applied to the part. Compression limiters (CLs) avoid this problem, as they are designed to maintain the integrity of the plastic around the fastener in order to ensure both part stability and the integrity of the assembly. To reduce assembly costs and make installation of the compression limiter easier, a compression limiter with captive bolt, i.e. a compression limiter assembly (CLA), can be used. A CLA is easier to install in the plastic component, while also facilitating the placement of the bolt. CLAs are used primarily in the automotive industry to assemble plastic components with grade 8.8 and 10.9 high-tensile bolts.

#plastics #automotive #CLA