Everything You Need to Know About Velcro Fasteners

When putting together any assembly of parts, one will require a type of fastener to secure all parts in place. There are various fastener designs used across aerospace applications, and they each have different functions and advantages. While many fasteners used in aircraft are permanent, some applications require more temporary security from a removable fastener. For an easy to use fastener that is simple and quick to remove, Velcro fasteners prove advantageous. If you are currently in the market for a Velcro fastener or are simply looking to learn more about this temporary method of securing your parts and assemblies, the following blog will cover everything you need to know.   

The term “Velcro” is a trade name for what is known in the industry as “hook and loop” fastening, the likes of which date back to 1941. This style of fastener uses two opposing surfaces of material, one comprising hooks and one comprising fasteners. The idea for this method of security came to Swiss engineer George de Mestral when he examined a burdock seed, or burr, under a microscope. He found that these seeds comprised thousands of hook-like structures which were causing them to hook onto his clothing. This inspired him to perfect the original “Velcro” over the course of ten years.

Today, the Velcro fastening systems one procures for aviation applications are supplied on rolls of paired woven tapes. The pair includes one strip of hook material and one strip loop material, both of which are typically made from polyester, nylon, or Nomex. When put to use, the hook strip locks into place with the loop strip when the rows of hooks catch to the corresponding rows of fasteners. Velcro fasteners may be used as a primary fastener and hold assemblies in place via this locking method or they may also be paired with another fastener as a secondary security measure. For example, if one uses “D-ring” fasteners, Velcro can be used to secure the ring fastener in place. 

As with any material, Velcro has its limitations for some applications, so one should consider all benefits and drawbacks. One of the drawbacks of using Velcro is that they are sensitive to high temperatures and risk deformity at around 280 to 800 degrees Fahrenheit depending on the material; however, the Velcro strips that are designed to withstand the higher temperatures are often made of less popular, more expensive materials like stainless steel. Typically, the average nylon or polyester Velcro strips are used in applications that will not exceed 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, as they are easy to remove, Velcro fasteners may prove less reliable for securing assemblies in unstable environments, such as a shaky flight. Unlike other fasteners that are molded into place, Velcro can easily come undone and should not be relied upon for securing heavy assemblies that require extreme security.

If you require Velcro fastener strips for your applications, visit Veritable Aerospace, an ASAP Semiconductor owned and operated purchasing platform. Operating with AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B accreditation, alongside a strict No China Sourcing policy, we make quality the cornerstone of our operations so our customers never have to question the reliability of our products and services. To get started with the procurement process today, simply fill out a Request for Quote form as found on our website to receive an Instant Quote for your comparisons in 15 minutes or less. Our team of market experts is available around-the-clock to provide premium service and one-on-one assistance, so contact us at any time via phone or email; we are happy to help, 24/7x365!