New PEM® Types PF7M™ and PF7MF™ captive panel screws introduce two distinct mounting styles for permanent installation into thin sheets. Both types feature small, compact, and low-profile designs ideally suited for limited access areas and benefit from patented MAThread® anti-cross threading technology that easily corrects off-angle installations, aligns components, and slides through clogged internal threads.  Their Phillips recess allows for tool or hand operation.
    Type PF7M captive panel screws integrate a self-clinching mounting design providing high pushout resistance.  These fasteners install flush on the back side of panels as thin as .036” / 0.92mm and are available in two screw lengths with thread sizes #4-40 through #8-32 and M3 to M4.  They can install reliably into panels with hardness of HRB 80 or less or HB 150 or less.
    Type PF7MF captive panel screws feature a flaring design, which allows them to be installed permanently into any panel hardness with minimal force.  Closer centerline (of fastener) to sheet edge can also be achieved with the flare-style mounting.  They install flush on the back side of panels as thin as .031” / 0.79mm and are available in two screw lengths with thread sizes #4-40 through #8-32 and M3 to M4.
    As with other PEM captive screws, both types feature a shoulder on the retainer portion of the fastener to help simplify installation.
    These new captive screws join a growing family of PEM brand hardware allowing for subsequent access to an assembly.  Captive screws remain intact without risk of loosening or falling out and additionally reduce the number of loose parts to be inventoried and handled.