FAQ

Can PROFIL install steel fasteners into aluminum panels/extrusions?

At PROFIL®, we specialize in the mechanical attachment of fasteners to a wide range of materials. Our fasteners are designed with a special coating that effectively mitigates corrosion-related concerns.

What if my joint is below the water-forwarding line, or exposed to the elements?

We offer a diverse selection of fastener types that feature sealed joints and are rated IP67. Our fasteners are specifically designed with advanced plating techniques to ensure exceptional corrosion resistance, allowing them to withstand exposure to various environmental elements.

Do I need a pre-pierced hole in my stamping or extrusion?

PROFIL® provides versatile options for both self-piercing and attachment to pre-existing holes. Additionally, our dedicated application engineering support is available to assist you in making informed decisions during the design stage, ensuring optimal fastener selection for your specific requirements. Talk to an engineer here.

What if I need prototypes or testing, but don’t want to buy tools or equipment yet?

Our Product Development group offers comprehensive support, including the provision of test reports, assistance with prototype installations, and the design of specialized tooling tailored to specific applications. We are committed to delivering exceptional expertise and resources to help meet your unique product development needs.

What happens if I have mid-production issues with the joint or PROFIL tooling?

Our Field Service team is dedicated to providing on-site support at your facility, ensuring prompt resolution of any operational issues. Equipped with extensive expertise, they specialize in troubleshooting and identifying solutions to swiftly restore your operations to full functionality.

How do I make sure that I’m using the best fastener for my application?

PROFIL’s technical Sales team is dedicated to providing expert guidance to assist you in selecting the optimal fastener for your specific needs. Our knowledgeable Application Engineering team specializes in conducting feasibility assessments for installation tooling, ensuring seamless integration into your processes. Additionally, our Product Development team conducts rigorous joint testing and validation procedures to guarantee the reliability and performance of our fasteners.

Why PROFIL over another option?

At PROFIL® , we maintain end-to-end ownership of the entire production process, ensuring meticulous control and seamless integration. From manufacturing the fasteners, installation tooling, and feed systems to collaborating with OEMs in designing the most suitable fastener solutions, supporting prototypes and testing, and providing on-site assistance with our field service engineers, we prioritize comprehensive customer care. Trust in our commitment to deliver exceptional products and services, providing a seamless experience for our valued customers.

When should I pick a PROFIL Mechanically Attached Fastener (MAF)?

PROFIL® fasteners demonstrate exceptional performance across a wide range of materials, from soft 5000 series aluminum to hard 1500 MPa press-hardened steel. Our unique capability to install the fasteners in-die makes us the ideal choice for all your stamping applications. Count on PROFIL® to deliver reliable and efficient fastening solutions for a diverse range of materials, ensuring optimal results for your manufacturing processes.

Can I save money by getting rid of my weld fasteners?

PROFIL® has amassed extensive expertise in integrating fasteners seamlessly within the stamping process. By eliminating the requirement for a separate weld station, operator involvement, and secondary processes, we optimize the cost-effectiveness of your joint. Our innovative approach streamlines production, ensuring efficient and economical solutions for your fastening needs.

Does PROFIL have grounding capabilities?

PROFIL® offers a highly effective structural rivet grounding solution, specifically designed for steel or aluminum materials with a thickness ranging from 0.7 to 4.0 mm. This innovative solution is available in our KSB Rivet stud, ensuring optimal performance and reliability in a variety of applications.

What size fasteners do PROFIL offer?

It’s important to note that while our standard range of mechanically attached automotive fasteners typically includes sizes from M6-M12, we do have the capability to produce fasteners in a range of sizes beyond that.

Additionally, we understand that every project is unique, which is why we offer custom fastening solutions tailored to specific needs. Our team of experts can work with customers to determine the exact size and specifications required, and then produce high-quality, reliable fasteners to meet those requirements.

To learn more about our full range of fastener products and custom capabilities, please visit our website or contact us directly.

Where are your products manufactured?

PROFIL® is a global manufacturing company with manufacturing locations in both the US (Michigan) and in Europe (Germany). We also offer regional support in Mexico and throughout Europe. By maintaining manufacturing facilities in multiple locations, we’re able to provide our customers with faster turnaround times, greater flexibility, and better overall service. No matter where you are in the world, you can count on PROFIL® for top-quality products and unparalleled support.

Do your fasteners offer any protection against water ingress?

We’re proud to say that the majority of our fasteners are designed to provide exceptional protection against water ingress. Specifically, many of our products meet the strict water-tight requirements demanded by the automotive industry, as well as being gas-tight to prevent leakage or contamination.

Our fasteners are carefully engineered to provide reliable performance even in harsh environments, and we’re continually improving our product line to meet the evolving needs of our customers. Whether you’re working in the automotive sector or any other industry that requires high-quality water-tight or gas-tight fasteners, we’re confident that we have the right solution for your needs.

For automotive applications, in which areas can we use your fasteners? 

Our Mechanically Attached Fasteners (MAFs) offer versatile application options within the automotive industry. These fasteners can be utilized in a variety of locations such as the upper body, under body, closures, chassis, seating, and battery areas of the vehicle, providing reliable and efficient solutions for various automotive needs.

Does PROFIL offer installation directly at the facility?

PROFIL® provides a valuable service of installing our fasteners directly into your application at our facility for early build, prototype orders, and testing. This service enables our customers to avoid the lead time associated with tooling requirements, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.