Double Head Threaded Aluminum Standoff Round Knurled Colorful Aluminum Standoff Spacers

Descripción

What is a Threaded Aluminum Standoff?

A threaded aluminum standoff is a cylindrical fastener, typically made of aluminum, that features internal and/or external threading. Its primary function is to create a precise space between two components in an assembly, such as separating a circuit board from a chassis or mounting a panel. They provide secure, threaded connections while ensuring components do not make direct contact, which can prevent short circuits, allow for heat dissipation, or simply improve the assembly’s mechanical structure and appearance .

Material of Threaded Aluminum Standoffs

The primary material is Aluminum . Specific aluminum alloys used include those from the 1xxx, 3xxx, 5xxx, and 6xxx series, such as 6061 , which are chosen for their good strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and machinability. Some standoffs are made from aviation-quality aluminum for high-performance applications .

Surface Finishes

Various surface treatments are applied to enhance corrosion resistance, improve appearance, or provide electrical insulation. Common finishes include:

• Anodizing: A very common and protective finish that creates a thick, durable, and corrosion-resistant oxide layer. It can be clear or colored (e.g., black) and offers a decorative appearance .

• Clear Iridite: A chromate conversion coating that provides a basic level of corrosion protection .

• Plain (Mill Finish): The aluminum is left in its natural, unfinished state .

Specifications

Threaded aluminum standoffs are defined by several key specifications:

• Thread Size: Available in both imperial (e.g., 4-40, 6-32, 8-32) and metric (e.g., M3) standards .

• Length: The body length, which determines the spacing, can vary (e.g., 6mm, 19mm, 1/8″) .

• Shape: Can be hexagonal (for easy installation with a wrench) or round .

• Thread Type: Configurations include Female-Female (internal threads on both ends), Male-Female (external thread on one end, internal on the other), and Self-Clinching (designed to be permanently pressed into a metal sheet) .

• Properties: They are valued for being lightweight, non-magnetic, and having good corrosion resistance .

Application Fields

These versatile standoffs are used across many industries:

• Electronics: Spacing and mounting printed circuit boards (PCBs) to prevent short circuits and allow for airflow .

• Data Communication & Telecommunications: Assembling servers, routers, and network hardware .

• Aerospace and Automotive: Used in avionics, automotive electronics, and electric vehicle charging stations where lightweight and reliable components are critical .

• Industrial and Manufacturing: General assembly in machinery, control panels, and metal fabrication .

• Marine: Used in marine fittings where specific alloys and finishes offer excellent corrosion resistance .

Excellent Case: Securing a Multi-Layer Circuit Board Assembly

In the assembly of a sophisticated GPS navigation unit for an automotive application, a threaded aluminum standoff proved critical. The design required one main PCB to be spaced precisely 6mm above a secondary metal chassis plate to prevent the board’s solder points from shorting against the metal.

A hex-shaped, male-female aluminum standoff with an M3 thread and a 6mm body length was selected . Several of these standoffs were first screwed onto threaded posts integrated into the chassis. The main PCB, with corresponding clearance holes, was then lowered onto the standoffs. Finally, short screws were driven through the PCB and into the internal threads of the standoffs, securely locking the entire assembly in place.

This use of aluminum standoffs created a rigid, stable, and lightweight structure. The anodized finish prevented corrosion, while the hexagonal shape allowed for easy wrench-tightening during assembly, speeding up the manufacturing process and ensuring a highly reliable final product.