T7 Knock-down fittings and modern alternatives to traditional joints (3–5 marks) · Industrial Technology Timber

T7 · Knock-down fittings and modern alternatives to traditional joints (3–5 marks)

Fits: 2022 Q15 (5), 2015 Q13 (3). Also 2021 MC8, 2018 MC7 · 181 words · 7 chunks

T7.1 · ExamplesKnock-down (KD) fittings are mechanical fasteners that let furniture be assembled and taken apart, such as cam lock and dowel fittings, cross dowels and connector bolts, threaded inserts and corner brackets.T7.2 · Flat-packThey allow flat-pack furniture: parts are shipped flat, which takes much less space, so freight and warehouse costs fall, for example at IKEA.T7.3 · Easy assembleCustomers can assemble the product with basic tools, and it can be dismantled to move house or replace a part.T7.4 · ProductionHoles for KD fittings are drilled quickly and accurately by CNC or multi-boring machines, so parts are interchangeable and suited to mass production. This lowers labour cost and price.T7.5 · BoardsKD fittings suit particleboard and MDF, where traditional joints such as mortise and tenons are weak or impractical.T7.6 · LimitsLimitations: KD joints are usually weaker than glued traditional joints, can loosen with use and look less refined.T7.7 · AlternativeAn alternative to a traditional mortise and tenon is the Festool Domino: a machine cuts matching mortises and a glued loose tenon (domino) is inserted. It is fast and accurate, and the large gluing area keeps the joint strong (2015 marking guidelines).

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