PEM RT® Free-Running Locking Technology
Thread profile with modified loaded flank angle that resists vibration loosening.
Engineered to Eliminate Vibration Loosening
In high-vibration environments, traditional locking methods present compromises.
Nylon inserts degrade, lock washers lose effectiveness, and thread adhesives need time-consuming application. As vibration cycles grow, these fastening solutions can progressively lose clamp load – and create potential failure points.
PEM RT® free-running locking technology eliminates these trade-offs without sacrificing installation speed and performance.
How Does PEM RT® Technology Work?
PEM RT® free-running locking threads feature a modified loaded flank angle that creates friction proportional to clamp load. The mating screw turns freely during assembly until tightened, then generates resistance that prevents vibration-induced loosening through unlimited cycles.
Turns freely until clamped
Faster assembly, reduced cross-threading risk
Reusable through unlimited cycles
Locking performance never degrades
Superior vibration resistance
Maintains 85%+ clamp load after 2,000 cycles
PEM RT® Free-Running Locknuts
Self-Clinching Locknuts for Sheet Metal
PEM RT® free-running locknuts deliver proven vibration resistance in a self-clinching design. Install permanently into sheets as thin as .025" using standard tooling for applications from aerospace electronics to heavy equipment.
PEM RT® Free-Running Standoffs
Self-Clinching Standoffs with Locking Threads
Self-clinching standoffs now available with PEM RT® locking threads. Provides vibration resistance for board-to-board spacing and component stacking while improving load distribution across engaged threads.
- Ideal for mounting, spacing, or stacking applications
- Installs permanently in sheets as thin as .025” / 0.63mm
- Available in steel and stainless steel
- Multiple thread sizes: M2-M10, #2-56 through 1/4-20
- Through-hole and blind threaded options
- Maintains clamp load under extreme vibration
- Same installation process as standard standoffs
- Available in hardened carbon steel and 300 series stainless
Proven for Superior Performance
Independent transverse vibration testing using M6 fasteners and property class 10.9 screws demonstrates superior performance through 2,000 cycles.
Maintains 85%+ clamp load after 2,000 cycles: Retains joint preload far longer than competing solutions
Outperforms adhesives and lock washers: Split ring washers fail within 500 cycles; Loctite Red 271 fails around 1,000 cycles
Zero performance degradation through reuse: Maintains consistent locking performance indefinitely
Engineering Advantages
Vibration Resistance
Maintains joint integrity in high-vibration environments. Ideal for transportation, industrial equipment, and electronics.
Reusability
Unlimited assembly/disassembly cycles without performance loss. Reduces total cost of ownership for serviceable assemblies.
Load Distribution
Improves load distribution across all threads, reducing stress on the first engaged thread.
Installation Efficiency
Uses same tooling and holes as standard fasteners – no process changes required. Compatible with automated and manual assembly.
Have a question? Talk to an Engineer
Connect with a PEM® engineering expert today and see what's possible.
Why Partner with PennEngineering®?
Engineering Integration
- Application engineering support
- Quick prototyping and validation
- Reduced design iterations and time-to-market
Supply chain agility
- Forecast-driven capacity planning
- Expedited lead times and buffer stock
- 24/7 global support with CM-level coordination
sustainability alignment
- Material traceability and responsible sourcing
- Design-for-sustainability consultations
- Joint carbon footprint reduction initiatives
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