Abstract: A new and improved fastening system for attaching relatively thin-gauge sheet metal members, such as, for example 14-25 gauge sheet metal members, wherein the power output parameters of the power tool are controlled such that when the driver blade member of the power tool acts upon each one of the brad-type nail fasteners, the brad-type nail fasteners will attain a predetermined velocity value, such as, for example, within the velocity range of 1000-2500 in/sec. Any one of various different types of power tools may be employed, and in addition, various geometrical characteristics of each brad-type fastener are important, such as, for example, the tip geometry, the aspect ratio A/R of the shank member of the fastener, and the use of an adhesive or painted coating upon the external surface areas of the shank member of the fastener. The fasteners preferably comprise dual-width fasteners which exhibit enhanced pull-out resistance values.

Abstract: A fastener having pointed ends for penetrating a belt. The preferred fastener is a wire hook fastener for joining the ends of belting and it is formed with pointed wedge-shaped ends defined by inclined top surfaces and flat bottom surfaces and inwardly inclined sidewalls extending between the top and bottom surfaces. The pointed wedge-shaped ends penetrate the belting and in a plane which coincides with the surface of the belting to limit deflection to form a uniform and strong joint between the wire hook fastener and the belting.