Comprehensive Comparison, Advantage Analysis and Selection Criteria of Sheet Metal Clinching and Welding Process

Comprehensive Comparison, Advantage Analysis and Selection Criteria of Sheet Metal Clinching and Welding Process

Internal thread forming in sheet metal processing mainly adopts clinching and welding processes. Improper process selection causes deformation, thread slipping, insufficient strength and high cost. This article systematically compares the two processes from six dimensions and provides standardized selection rules for industrial production.

1. Process Principle Difference

Clinching is a cold forming process that fixes fasteners through sheet metal plastic deformation without high temperature and deformation. Welding is a thermal processing method that connects parts through molten metal fusion, which changes the internal stress of the plate.

2. Structural Strength and Stability

Clinching features uniform stress, excellent vibration resistance and stable connection, especially suitable for thin plates. Welding provides ultra-high load capacity but has hidden defects such as virtual welding and air bubbles, leading to potential falling-off risks.

3. Appearance and Accuracy Performance

Clinched products have flat surfaces, no welding scars and high positioning accuracy, which is suitable for appearance parts. Welding easily causes plate warping, yellowing and deformation, requiring additional polishing and repairing procedures.

4. Production Efficiency and Cost

Clinching has simple procedures, high automation and low rework rate, greatly reducing comprehensive production cost. Welding requires multiple auxiliary processes with high labor cost and low mass production efficiency.

5. Standard Process Selection Rules

Choose clinching for thin plates, appearance casings, mass production and vibration structures. Choose welding for thick plates, heavy-load positions and internal frames without appearance requirements.