Productivity partners with BTM clinching and fastening systems—durable, precise, and maintenance-friendly solutions for sheet metal joining.
BTM Company is a global leader in the design and engineering of specialty presses, production systems, precision tooling and work holding equipment. For over 50 years, BTM has provided customers with innovative equipment and tooling in the sheet metal industry. They design and manufacture clinching and fastening systems for sheet metal assembly, delivering proven alternatives to spot welding and riveting. Their equipment provides clean, reliable joints without heat, fillers, or distortion—ideal for manufacturers focused on durability and energy efficiency.
BTM’s systems are used across appliance, automotive, HVAC, and general fabrication industries. With decades of expertise, their presses and tools integrate easily into automated production lines, ensuring repeatable results and minimal maintenance.
Why choose BTM?
- Proven clinching and piercing solutions for metal assembly
- Compatible with both manual and robotic integration
- Energy-efficient, no-heat joining method
- Supported by responsive U.S. engineering and training
What is clinching, and how does it compare to welding?
Clinching is a mechanical joining method that creates a permanent connection between sheet metals without melting or using additional fasteners like screws, bolts, or rivets. Here’s a detailed comparison to welding:
Clinching
Process:
Clinching involves locally deforming overlapping sheets of metal using a punch and die. The punch presses into the sheets, causing the material to flow and interlock mechanically in a small, confined area. The result is a “button-like” interlock that holds the sheets together.
Key Features:
- No filler material, adhesives, or fasteners needed.
- Works well for thin sheets (usually 0.5–3 mm per sheet, depending on material).
- Quick cycle times (fractions of a second per joint).
- Low energy consumption compared to welding.
- Typically used with mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and coated metals.
Applications:
- Automotive body panels
- HVAC ducts and enclosures
- Appliances and electronics
- Furniture sheet metal components
Clinching vs. Welding
- Clinching is a cold, mechanical joining method ideal for thin sheets, fast production, and coated or dissimilar metals, especially when maintaining surface finish is important.
- Welding provides higher strength and structural integrity, especially for thicker metals, but involves heat, filler material, and potentially slower cycles.
| Feature | Clinching | Welding |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Requirement | Cold process (mechanical) | Hot process (fusion) |
| Material Thickness | Best for thin sheets (0.5–3 mm per sheet typical) | Can handle thin to thick sheets (depending on welding method) |
| Material Types | Works with dissimilar metals and coated sheets (e.g., aluminum + steel) | Can be limited by metal compatibility; coatings often need removal |
| Cycle Time | Very fast (0.5–2 seconds per joint) | Slower, requires setup, filler, and sometimes post-weld cooling |
| Equipment Cost | Lower; punch-die presses or automated clinching machines | Higher; welding machines, consumables, skilled labor required |
| Strength | Good for moderate mechanical loads; not as strong as full penetration welds | High strength; depends on weld type (MIG, TIG, spot) |
| Surface Finish | No heat-affected zone; surface coating remains intact | Heat-affected zone may discolor or damage coatings; may require grinding or finishing |
| Joint Type | Localized, mechanical interlock | Continuous or point welds |
| Flexibility | Can join dissimilar metals and pre-coated sheets | Some welding methods struggle with dissimilar metals or coated surfaces |
| Safety | Low risk; no sparks or fumes | Higher risk; requires PPE and ventilation for fumes |
Many automotive and appliance manufacturers combine both: clinching for sheet panels and spot or MIG welding for structural joints. Clinching is often favored when surface appearance, speed, and coated/dissimilar materials are priorities.
Productivity has been a trusted partner to small and large companies – those who are trying to make something – since 1968. Our team’s mission is to exceed your expectations and help you achieve greater efficiency. We value building lasting relationships based on integrity and expertise and aim to deliver the best possible service and support. When you’re ready, we’re here to help you find the right solution for your production goals.