It wasn’t that long ago when the only option for installing threaded fasteners on the assembly line was a pneumatic tool with a simple shut-off clutch.

These days, thankfully, assemblers have a host of options, including cordless tools, computer-controlled DC electric tools, and even robotic screwdriving systems.

If you’re in the market for fastening tools, then you’ll want to attend The ASSEMBLY Show South, which will be held April 16-17 at the Music City Center in Nashville, TN. You’ll find dozens of suppliers offering cordless nutrunners, automatic screwdrivers, screwfeeders, digital torque wrenches and other fastening technology. 

Besides fastening tools, you’ll find some 200 suppliers of adhesives, assembly machines, fastening tools, robotics, parts feeders, presses, test and inspection devices, and other technologies. The show is being held in conjunction with The Quality Show South and Adhesives in Action. For more information, visit www.assemblyshowsouth.com.

Here’s a sampling of the new fastening technology that will be on display.

DC Electric Tool Is Fast, Accurate

Photo courtesy of ASG, a Div. of Jergens Inc.

The X-PAQ II is a transducerized DC electric fastening tool. Models are available to accommodate torque ranging from 2 to 60 newton-meters. With motor speeds up to 2,000 rpm, the X-PAQ II ensures faster cycle times while maintaining the highest levels of accuracy. 

The tool allows adjustments at the application level. This feature enables your team to optimize each operation without being confined to global settings, delivering precision tailored to your requirements.

The tool’s motor is built from advanced materials that enable faster switching and lower resistance. This results in a cooler, more efficient motor drive that surpasses the performance of traditional technology. A flexible cable design with a simplified construction enhances the connection between the tool and the controller, ensuring reliable and durable performance in the most demanding environments. Built with sturdy metal components, the tool is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. Textured surfaces provide superior grip for better ergonomics.

Cordless Tool Has Torque Transducer

Photo courtesy of Atlas Copco.

The XTB programmable cordless tool is equipped with a torque transducer for accurate fastening. Torque accuracy is ±7.5 percent at 3σ. A single tool can be used to fasten 12 joints with different tightening requirements. Engineers can optimize tightening speed and detect “re-hit.” The tool is easy to use: Insert in the battery, set torque preferences, and start working. The tool features a clear and intuitive HMI. The tool can operate as a standalone device, or it can be upgraded to collect data from the assembly process, including torque and angle data. The tool connects to a controller through Bluetooth or WLAN.

Cordless Tool Detects Re-hits, Cross-Threading

Photo courtesy of Fein Power Tools.

With adjustable torque settings and exceptional accuracy, AccuTec cordless fastening tools meet the rigorous demands of modern assembly. These lightweight, compact tools feature infinitely variable speed adjustment. Models are available to cover torque ranging from 0.5 to 60 newton-meters. The tools can accept 12-, 14.4- and 18-volt lithium batteries.

The tools provide visual and audible signals that a fastener has been installed correctly or incorrectly. The battery management system prevents installation of fasteners if battery power is insufficient. The tools are ISO5393 compliant with ±10 percent accuracy guaranteed and ±5 percent accuracy demonstrable with a CMK or more than 1.67. 

Fein’s PowerDrive brushless motor is rated for more than 1 million cycles. Engineers can program speed, angle, time, soft start, re-hit detection, re-hit prevention, cross thread reduction, constant throttle, and threshold strategy.

With AccuTec ASM 18 pistol-grip tools, motor speed is electronically controlled, so it remains constant under load until the moment the tool clutches out. AccuTec ASW 18 right-angle nutrunners have a variety of interchangeable heads for various applications.

AccuTec parameter control (APC) software is free to download with no subscriptions. For re-hit detection, the APC can be set to detect a high load and clutch-out on startup. When triggered, the tool is locked for a user-defined period of time to inform the operator that a re-hit has taken place or a cross-thread has occurred. For re-hit prevention, the APC can be configured with a user-defined trigger delay telling operators to avoid rapid re-hits to an already tightened fastener. For cross-thread detection, the APC can be used to configure the tool to begin in reverse prior to tightening the fastener to ensure correct thread alignment. For soft start, the APC allows for user-defined ramp up times up to 1 full second. This is useful when combined with cross-thread prevention, giving the operator time to align the fastener.

Threshold technology lets engineers deploy clutch tools where a DC tool would otherwise be required. AccuTec automatically downshifts when a user-defined percentage of the target torque is reached. The technology uses the load on the motor and the draw on the battery to approximate a threshold similar to programming a DC tool.

Electric Screwdriver Is Precise

Photo courtesy of Ingersoll Rand.

The Insight iQi Series electric screwdriver is for low-torque precision fastening applications. With state-of-the-art torque and angle control strategies, real-time monitoring and seamless integration with manufacturing execution systems or Fieldbus networks, this tool optimizes assembly lines by eliminating errors, reducing downtime and boosting productivity. Its easy-to-use interface and fully remote setup capabilities streamline the programming process, cutting setup time by 50 percent and reducing operational disruptions.

The tool introduces an industry-first: tilt angle control, which ensures optimal tool alignment throughout the assembly process. By actively preventing cross-threading and maintaining joint integrity, this feature significantly reduces rework and minimizes the risk of defects. The system continuously provides real-time feedback, allowing assemblers to fine-tune their approach and enhance fastening quality at every step.

A user-friendly 7-inch touch screen enables quick system configuration and seamless job setup. The tool’s 100 percent remote accessibility empowers engineers to set up, program and troubleshoot from anywhere, eliminating the need for on-site adjustments and minimizing workflow interruptions. Integrated MES and Fieldbus support ensures automated tool and job selection, reducing manual setup errors.

The tool achieves a fastening accuracy of ±3.5 percent for transducerized models and ±10 percent for current-control models. Through live monitoring and traceability, the system continuously tracks torque, angle and seat control strategies, allowing for real-time issue detection and correction. The tool is engineered to withstand more than 1 million maintenance-free cycles.

Its ergonomic grip enhances user comfort, reducing fatigue and increasing productivity. The 360-degree LED status beam provides instant feedback, ensuring that each fastening is achieved correctly. Live Trace Technology enables real-time torque curve analysis. With the ability to store up to 1 million fastening records, manufacturers gain complete traceability, ensuring compliance with stringent quality standards.

Semiautomatic Screwdriving Cell Is Fast, Accurate

Photo courtesy of Ito America Corp.

This semiautomatic screwdriving cell has a gantry positioning system that is accurate to ±10 microns. It can be equipped with a tilting stage and either one or two fastening spindles. It can install screws at a rate of one every 3.5 seconds. The work area measures 300 by 300 millimeters. Fasteners can be supplied with a screw presenter or they can be blow-fed directly to the driver. The machine can install fastener sizes M2 to M5.

Electric Screwdriver Is Smart

Photo courtesy of Mountz Inc.

The Mini MDT is an all-in-one smart electric screwdriver for micro torque fastening applications. The screwdriver safeguards against fastening failures. The error-proofing system reduces defects. Engineers can easily program the controller with fastening workflows and torque tolerances for each fastener in the sequence. The tool records and stores torque and fastening data. A single DC control system replaces up to 15 power tools. The tool includes free product software; no annual licensing is required.

The tool works with a variety of optional equipment. For example, the controller can be connected to a smart bit and socket tray. The tool won’t function unless the correct bit or socket has been selected. Selecting a bit or socket automatically updates the torque and angle settings on the tool for the specific application.

Equipped with position encoders, the position-control torque arm helps to ensure that fasteners are installed in the correct locations in the correct sequence. A screw presenter delivers up to two screws per second to a fixed point where a worker or a robot picks them up. Engineers can magnetize a bit by sliding a Mag-O-Net onto it. This accessory is commonly used with a screw presenter.

Torx Impact Sockets Designed for Toyota Vehicles

Photo courtesy of Normeco USA.

Torx impact sockets have been specifically designed to tighten fasteners on Toyota vehicles. The sockets have been engineered to fit Toyota fasteners precisely, ensuring accurate torque transfer. A magnetic ring around the Torx bit ensures the sockets can easily catch the Torx screws. The sockets are made from high-strength alloy steel to withstand extreme impact forces. A protective cover on the sockets enhances safety.

The sockets are divided into two parts, allowing worn-out Torx bits to be replaced. Toyota production line engineers often found that Torx tips are prone to breakage. Normeco engineers developed these sockets to address that issue.

Riveting Tool for High-Volume Production

Photo courtesy of RivetKing.

The RK-986 pneudraulic rivet tool is designed for high-volume production. Built for long-term, repeated use with high-strength fasteners, the tool installs lockbolts and blind rivets ranging from 3/16 to 1/2 inch in diameter.

The RK-986 delivers high-strength fastening power while maintaining an ergonomic, lightweight design. Unlike traditional heavy riveters, this remote-operated unit features a split system, which separates the power unit and handle by a length of hose. This allows for a mobile base that houses the pneudraulic system, while keeping the handle lightweight and easy to maneuver. This design provides great flexibility, enabling operators to work efficiently in various production environments without compromising power or function.

Additionally, the tool is engineered for low noise output (below 80 dB). The pneudraulic system provides exceptional pulling force with minimal effort, ensuring smooth and consistent rivet setting across a range of materials and applications.

Instrument Tests Torque Screwdrivers

Photo courtesy of Tohnichi America.

The DLC-G Driver Line Checker is used to verify the accuracy of manual torque screwdrivers. Designed specifically for assembly line applications, the device delivers rapid and precise torque verification in just seconds. Its user-friendly, color-coded pass-fail system makes quality control effortless—blue indicates a pass, while red signals a fail.

Two models are available to accommodate a wide range of applications. DLC60CN-G handles a torque range of 2 to 60 newton-centimeters. DLC600N-G handles a torque range of 20 to 600 newton-centimeters. Both are accurate to ±1 percent of the indicated value +1 digit, making them ideal for verifying click-style torque drivers. The instrument supports multiple measurement units, including newton-centimeters, kilogram-centimeters, and inch-pounds.

For more information on fastening tools, read these articles:
Tips for Feeding and Driving Small Screws
Cobot Installs Screws in Electronic Assemblies
New Riveting Tool Monitors Fastening Process