#6-32 Retaining Washer
#6-32 Retaining Washer
(OP)
Hi everyone,
Anyone have any ideas for retaining some #6-32 machine screws so they won't fall out of a plastic lens? The only solution that I've found, which really isn't a solution since they don't work well, is the following:
http://www.mcmaster.com/#washers/=88exnq
Any ideas?
Anyone have any ideas for retaining some #6-32 machine screws so they won't fall out of a plastic lens? The only solution that I've found, which really isn't a solution since they don't work well, is the following:
http://www.mcmaster.com/#washers/=88exnq
Any ideas?





RE: #6-32 Retaining Washer
Use a thread forming screw, or an adhesive that will stick to the plastic, or heat the screws up after you install them to melt the plastic.
RE: #6-32 Retaining Washer
RE: #6-32 Retaining Washer
CoryPad: I don't want the screws falling out when they take the lens off for service. The idea is that the service personnel won't take the time to find screws that fall out. We want them to stay with the plastic lens when they are unscrewed from the metal base, so they are all there when the lens is ready to be re-attached.
RE: #6-32 Retaining Washer
Something like this:
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RE: #6-32 Retaining Washer
http://www.mcmaster.com/#bolt-retainers/=88ogxa
...so you can use standard hardware.
This assumes you are using a partially threaded bolt, as this retainer slides onto the un-threaded portion.
There are similar retainers designed for temporary use, sized to hold a standard screw by the threads. Here's one...
http://www.bakfin.com/starlock/screwretainer.html
...they aren't designed to hold much of a load.
RE: #6-32 Retaining Washer
I've tried an item like the Bafkin Starlock, but it was plastic. This metal version will probably work better. I will try this also.
Thanks a lot guys.
RE: #6-32 Retaining Washer
Alteratively, use the captive screws shown on following pages in Mint's McMaster link, i.e. press-fit style panel fasteners.
RE: #6-32 Retaining Washer
Thanks for the info.
RE: #6-32 Retaining Washer
You have to use a special captive screw which has a 'shank' slightly less than the minor diameter of the thread where it goes through the retaining part. You then have threaded holes of the same size in both parts. The retaining part threaded holes have a counter bore or similar on the mating face to allow room to disengage/float during assy. If you're willing to undo each screw only partway at a time then the c'bore depth can be minimized - but it will confuse some folk.
What is Engineering anyway: FAQ1088-1484: In layman terms, what is "engineering"?
RE: #6-32 Retaining Washer
What is Engineering anyway: FAQ1088-1484: In layman terms, what is "engineering"?