Locking Canoe Clips
Our Locking Canoe Clips are a secure panel fastening solution available in PA66 (Nylon) and POM (Polyoxymethylene) also known as Acetal, designed for the reliable joining of two panels or sheets where a higher retention force is required. Precision-moulded and lightweight, they offer a corrosion-resistant and non-conductive solution suitable for demanding industrial and commercial applications.
What is the Difference Between a Locking and Standard Canoe Clip?
A standard canoe clip relies on the spring tension of its flexible legs to grip the panel through friction alone. A locking canoe clip features raised knuckles on the outer edge of each leg which catch on the underside of the panel once inserted, creating a positive mechanical lock with significantly higher pull-out resistance. This makes it the preferred choice where panels are subject to vibration, movement, or load.
How to Remove Locking Canoe Clips
Removal requires slightly more force than a standard canoe clip. Insert a flat tool beneath the clip head and apply firm, even leverage to compress the legs inward until the knuckles clear the panel hole. Once free of the panel surface the clip can be lifted away cleanly without damaging the surrounding material.
Are Locking Canoe Clips Reusable?
While Locking Canoe Clips can be removed and reinstalled multiple times, the knuckles experience more wear per cycle than a standard clip and will degrade sooner. Always inspect before reuse — discard any clip with visible cracks, deformed legs, or reduced spring action. If the clip no longer seats firmly or holds panels flush, it should be replaced.
What is the Difference Between Nylon 66 and POM Locking Canoe Clips?
PA66 offers excellent mechanical strength and impact resistance, making it the more robust option where the clip may be subject to higher loads or shock. It also has good chemical resistance and performs well across a wide temperature range, though it can absorb small amounts of moisture over time which may slightly affect dimensional stability in very humid environments.
POM is harder and stiffer than PA66, with a lower coefficient of friction and superior dimensional stability — it absorbs virtually no moisture, making it the preferred choice in wet or high-humidity environments. Its natural lubricity also means the clip inserts and removes with a slightly smoother action, which can be an advantage in applications requiring frequent disassembly.
Key Features and Benefits
- High retention force – secure fastening under vibration and load
- Tool-free installation – reduces assembly time and hardware requirements
- Weather and UV resistant – maintains performance in outdoor and exposed environments
- Electrically non-conductive – suitable for use in electrical and electronic assemblies
- Serviceable – straightforward disassembly for access and maintenance
Available in:
- Black Nylon 66 with UL94-V0 flame rating (temperature range -20°C to +85°C)
- Black Nylon 66 with UL94-V2 flame rating (temperature range -20°C to +85°C)
- White Nylon 66 with UL94-V0 flame rating (temperature range -20°C to +85°C)
- White Nylon 66 with UL94-V2 flame rating (temperature range -20°C to +85°C)
- Black POM with UL94 HB flame rating (-40°C to 105°C)
- White POM with UL94 HB flame rating (-40°C to 105°C)
A range of hole sizes from 3.20mm to 7.80mm and panel thickness from 1.5mm to 9mm
If you require any assistance for selecting the correct canoe clip for your application, please give us a call at: 01233 713 581
