PennEngineering's PEM Self Clinching Fastener is selected by Agilent

Business Wire, Jan 11, 2001

Business Editors/Hi-Tech Writers

DANBORO, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 11, 2001

Agilent eliminates screws in enclosure design with switch to

PEM Self-Clinching Fasteners

PennEngineering, (NYSE: PNN/PNN.A) a global leader in providing value-added products and solutions to leading worldwide computer, electronics, telecommunications, and automotive OEMs in over 40 countries, today announced that it has been selected by Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A), a leading provider of innovative technologies for communications and life sciences, as the Fastener of choice for the company's remote data acquisition box for electrical resistance strain gauges.

The data acquisition box is utilized to acquire massive amounts of test data through multiple remote units on sophisticated and large-scale structures, such as aircraft, spacecraft, bridges, and skyscrapers.

The economies realized by using PEM self-clinching standoffs from the PEM Fastening Systems division of PennEngineering were so notable that the finished box uses only twelve fasteners and one loose screw. Utilizing far fewer parts while meeting all performance demands, this redesigned unit can now be assembled easily in about two minutes instead of the half-hour required with previous models and disassembled in seconds.

The result is a simpler design that virtually snaps together and yields time and cost savings during production and in the field. "This box design reduces screw usage by as much as 98% and still creates a product that passes our stringent tests", commented Rick Euger, R&D mechanical engineer responsible for the project at Agilent.

While more than 40 screws can be counted at virtually every fastening point in comparable rack-mounted enclosure designs, the Agilent box needs only one for an electrical ground connection. Unlike loose fasteners, the "screwless standoff" design from PEM fastening systems arrives at Agilent from their subcontractor as an integral part of the box's .060" -thick aluminum sheet metal. The fasteners are installed by squeezing them into a punched or drilled hole using any standard press, and high performance values are achieved. "Perhaps most important," continues Euker, "this box passes Agilent's stringent series of shake, shock and humidity tests."

"We are honored to add Agilent Technologies to our list of prestigious customers, and are extremely proud of our design team and the success of the design win, commented Kenneth A. Swanstrom, Chairman and CEO. PennEngineering takes pride in developing highly innovative and reliable products used by the rapidly growing technology industry. Our family of products has been meeting the most stringent product quality and reliability tests for over 40 years, allowing our customers to not only streamline their production but also achieve cost savings".

About PennEngineering

PennEngineering provides value-added solutions to leading worldwide computer, electronics, telecommunications, and automotive OEMs.

Founded in 1942, PennEngineering is a global company headquartered in Danboro, Pennsylvania with manufacturing locations in North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, and export offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia and independent distribution facilities in more than 40 countries. More information about PennEngineering is available at www.penn-eng.com.

About Agilent Technologies

Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) is a diversified technology company with approximately 47,000 employees serving customers in more than 120 countries. Agilent is a global leader in designing and manufacturing test, measurement and monitoring instruments, systems and solutions, and semiconductor and optical components.

In fiscal year 2000, Agilent had net revenue of $10.8 billion. The company serves markets that include communications, electronics, life sciences and healthcare.