Swage Spacers

Swage spacers  are specialized fasteners designed to create a fixed distance between two components, typically used in electronic assemblies, circuit boards, and thin sheet metal.

Unlike standard threaded spacers that simply sit between parts, swage spacers are permanently "swaged" or cold-formed into a pre-drilled hole in a base material.

The "swage" refers to the installation process. The spacer has a hollow, thin-walled shank (the "tail") that is inserted through a hole. A specialized tool or press then flares or rolls that tail outward against the back of the panel. This creates a permanent, high-strength mechanical bond that prevents the spacer from falling out or rotating.

Key Characteristics

• Permanent Attachment: Once installed, they become an integral part of the chassis or board. This is ideal for applications where you cannot reach the back of a panel to hold a nut during assembly.

• Material Compatibility: They are most commonly used in materials that are too thin to be tapped (threaded) or in materials like FR4 (circuit boards) where a traditional screw might strip.

• Materials: Usually manufactured from stainless steel, brass (often nickel-plated), or aluminum to ensure they can be deformed during installation without cracking.