Technical Notes
Pullout Loads
The pullout load will vary depending on the clip type and are specified on each product sheet. The loads range between 4.4lbs for minimum load clips, 11lbs for standard loading and 22-40lbs for heavy duty clips.
The shock load is less and can be as low as 4.4lbs, depending on the type of shock load. Clips never load simultaneously on a panel, so if a panel has 10 clips it does not mean the force required to remove the panel (or the force the panel will take) is 22x11lbs.
Clip Spacing and Panel Loads
Panels need to be supported evenly around the perimeter to eliminate sagging. The clip spacing requirements will vary depending on the clips used, and the application.
Although many of the Fastmount clip sets will hold more than your theoretical panel load, the reality of unknown conditions means panels and clips could be subjected to shock loads (g-forces) from big seas or seismic shocks. From our experience it is best to follow our clip spacing guidelines. These can be found here.
If you require further advice email info@fastmount.com
Fastmount With Different Materials
You can mount Fastmount clips into or onto most panel products such as plywood, MDF, plastic, fiberglass, HPL, sandwich panels and composite panels such as Alucobond. It is not recommended to use very heavy materials such as granite and heavy fibre cement board. The LP-DF8 coarse thread female clip and PC-DC1 is designed to work with drywall plasterboard.
Please refer to our interactive Product Selector for general product recommendations, or email us at info@fastmount.com for detailed advice.
Drill Settings and Self Tapping Clips
The clutch setting on battery drills when fitting clips varies from drill to drill. It will depend on the battery charge condition and on the material you are screwing into.
Once 2 or 3 test clips have been tested, you will have a good feel for a setting that screws the clips home, but does not over tighten them. If the clips are breaking, the drill setting is too powerful. Note: Some hard veneers and hard materials require a small countersink to the entrance of the hole to allow the clip thread to tap into the material. Contact us for advice info@fastmount.com
Adhesives for Surface Mount Clips
We recommend the use of a standard two-part epoxy, which will hold the clip in place at over three times the clipping load (66-88lbs per clip).
If you require further advice email info@fastmount.com.
Quality Installation
To ensure consistent and quality installation Fastmount supplies tools where required. Installation videos are available here and installation guides can be viewed from each product page on the website, or in our Technical Guide.