Swage Standoffs

Swage standoffs are a specific type of captive fastener used to create space between two components, such as a circuit board and a metal chassis. Unlike a standard standoff that simply sits between two parts, a swage standoff is permanently attached to one of those parts through a process called cold-forming or "swaging."

How They Work

The standoff features a hollow, thin-walled cylindrical "tail" or shank at one end. This tail is inserted through a pre-drilled hole in a panel or PCB. A specialized press tool then flares or rolls that tail outward against the underside of the material, creating a permanent mechanical bond.

Key Differences from Other Standoffs

• Vs. Threaded Standoffs: Standard threaded standoffs are loose parts that require a screw to hold them in place. Swage standoffs become an integral part of the board, so they won't fall out during maintenance.

• Vs. Self-Clinching (PEM) Standoffs: Self-clinching fasteners rely on the host material "flowing" into the fastener’s serrations. Swage standoffs, however, are preferred for non-ductile materials like FR4 (circuit board material) or very thin sheets where clinching might crack or stress the board.