Dog point prevents cross threading

A new screw uses a special tip and thread form start that eliminates cross threading

. The ‘MAThread’ screw from Arnold Umformtechnik has a ‘dog point’ that ensures optimum feed into the application. MAThread is a US company that holds the patents on a screw thread design that ends in a special section that forces the screw and hole helices to align every time, regardless of how the screw is put into the hole. The end starts with the ‘dog point’ after which the thread starts as a cam profile prior to the commencement of the thread form. MAThread offers three basic designs: one for general usage; the ‘Dog point’ for “very difficult application or when prying components into place during installation”; the ‘P’ point for “applications when point clearance is not an issue” and “with thick stack ups of multiple components”. There is also a “very Short” MAThread for use where point clearance is a problem and angular mis-alignment is limited. The company also offers custom designed MAThreads for “parts used in special applications”. The MAThread has become standard for OEMs such as General Motors, DaimlerChrysler and Ford as well as suppliers such as Visteon. MAThread claims that more than 7 billion screws and bolts based on its licensed designs have replaced standard fasteners since their introduction in 1996.