Description
Self-Clinching Standoff Sizes & Dimensions
The charts below list standard inch and metric self-clinching standoff sizes, including part numbers, available lengths, mounting hole sizes, body dimensions and minimum sheet thicknesses. Select the required thread size and length for your RFQ. Custom lengths, materials and specifications may also be available for OEM production.
What Is a Self-Clinching Standoff?
A self-clinching standoff is a press-fit threaded fastener used to create a permanent mounting point and maintain precise spacing between sheet metal, circuit boards, panels, and other components.
The standoff is pressed into a properly sized round mounting hole. During installation, the sheet material flows into the standoff’s clinching feature, locking it securely into the panel without welding or loose mounting hardware.
Also known as a clinch standoff, press-fit standoff, threaded standoff for sheet metal, or PEM-style standoff, it provides strong resistance to rotation and push-out while keeping the installation side flush.
TSC1 self-clinching standoffs are available in two styles:
- Through-threaded standoffs allow the screw to pass through the threaded body.
- Blind-threaded standoffs have a closed end that limits screw penetration and keeps the opposite end closed.
Available Thread Sizes
TSC1 self-clinching standoffs are available in standard UNC and metric thread sizes. Through-threaded and blind-threaded availability varies by size and part number.
UNC Thread Sizes
- #4-40 Self-Clinching Standoff
- #4-40 Blind-Threaded Self-Clinching Standoff
- #6-32 Self-Clinching Standoff
- #6-32 Blind-Threaded Self-Clinching Standoff
- #8-32 Self-Clinching Standoff
- #10-32 Self-Clinching Standoff
Metric Thread Sizes
- M3 × 0.5 Self-Clinching Standoff
- M3 × 0.5 Blind-Threaded Self-Clinching Standoff
- M3.5 × 0.6 Self-Clinching Standoff
- M4 × 0.7 Self-Clinching Standoff
- M5 × 0.8 Self-Clinching Standoff
Available length, mounting hole size, body dimensions, and minimum sheet thickness vary by thread size and part number. Refer to the specification charts above for exact measurements.
Materials & Finishes
TSC1 self-clinching standoffs are available in zinc-plated steel and stainless steel.
Zinc-plated steel provides strength, corrosion protection, and economical performance for general sheet metal and industrial applications. Stainless steel is available for applications requiring greater corrosion resistance or material compatibility.
The sheet material must be sufficiently ductile and softer than the standoff for proper clinching. Confirm material compatibility before installing into stainless steel or other hardened panels.
Self-Clinching Standoff Installation
Self-clinching standoffs are installed into a properly sized round mounting hole using a press that applies a controlled squeezing force.
Place the clinching end of the standoff into the mounting hole and support it with the correct anvil. Keep the punch and anvil surfaces parallel, then apply enough squeezing force to embed the standoff securely and flush into the sheet.
For consistent installation:
- Use the recommended mounting hole size.
- Confirm the minimum sheet thickness.
- Use the correct punch and anvil.
- Apply squeezing force rather than impact force.
- Verify that the sheet material is compatible with the standoff material.
Self-clinching standoffs should not be installed using a hammer.
Typical Applications
Self-clinching standoffs are commonly used where components must be securely mounted at a precise distance from a metal panel.
Typical applications include:
- Printed circuit board mounting
- Electrical cabinets and enclosures
- Electronic equipment
- Control panels
- Telecommunications equipment
- Appliances
- Industrial machinery and assemblies
Factory-Direct Supply & Custom Options
Imperial Rivets & Fasteners supplies factory-direct TSC1 self-clinching standoffs in UNC and metric thread sizes.
Through-threaded and blind-threaded styles are available in zinc-plated steel and stainless steel. Different thread sizes, lengths, materials, and custom specifications may be available depending on application and production requirements.
Select a standard size and length from the specification chart above and add it to your RFQ. For a length or specification not listed, contact our sales team for additional production options.
Questions or Custom Requirements?
Contact our sales team at sales@imperialrivet.com or (630) 964-0208.
