Fastener-World Magazine No.201_Global Version

133 310EXPRESS COMPANY (Japan)

Security, Tamper Proof, Anti-theft Screws...

248 A-PLUS SCREWS INC.

Chipboard Screws, Customized Special Screws / Bolts...

229 A-STAINLESS INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD. 淳康

Chipboard Screws, Concrete Screws, Deck Screws...

280 ABC FASTENERS CO., LTD. 聯欣

Drop-in Anchors, Expansion Anchors, Wire Anchors...

155 ABS METAL INDUSTRY CORP. 得鈺

Elevator Bolts, Flanged Head Bolts, Floorboard Screws...

119 ACHILLES SEIBERT GMBH (Germany)

Tapping Screws, Drilling Screws, Thread Rolling Screws...

100 AEH FASTEN INDUSTRIES CO., LTD. 鉞昌

Clevis Pins, Dowel Pins, Hollow Rivets...

17 ALEX SCREW INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. 禾億

Button Head Cap Screws, Button Head Socket Cap Screws...

78 AMBROVIT S.P.A. (Italy)

Chipboard Screws, Combined Screws, Machine Screws...

88 AMPLE LONG INDUSTRY CO., LTD.

Hollow Rivets, Drive Rivets, Semi-tubular Rivets...

288 AN CHEN FA MACHINERY CO., LTD.

296 CHIEN TSAI MACHINERY ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. 鍵財 Thread Rolling Machines

55 CHIN LIH HSING PRECISION ENTERPRISE 金利興 Automotive Nuts, Brass Inserts, Bushes, Bushings...

286 CHING CHAN OPTICAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. 精湛 Eddy Current Sorting Machines, Fastener Makers...

44 CHONG CHENG FASTENER CORP. 宗鉦 Cap Nuts, Coupling Nuts, Conical Washer Nuts...

82 CHUN YU WORKS & CO., LTD. 春雨 Drywall Screws, Socket Head Cap Screws , TC Bolt Sets...

284 CHUN ZU MACHINERY INDUSTRY CO., LTD. 春日 Cold Headers, Header Toolings, Heading Machines...

149 CONTINENTAL PARAFUSOS S.A. 巴西商友暉 Automotive Part & Nut, Home Appliance Screws, Sems...

84 CPC FASTENERS INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD. 冠誠 Stainless Steel, Bi-metal Self-drilling Screws...

25 DA YANG ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. 大楊 Special Automotive Nuts, Special Weld Nuts...

94 DAR YU ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

Chipboard Screws, Drywall Screws, Screw Nails...

138 DE HUI SCREW INDUSTRY CO., LTD. 德慧 Drywall Screws, Decking Screws, Self-drilling Screws, Roofing Screws...

137 DELTEKS INDUSTRIES INC.

Wheel Bolts, Bushes, Thread Forming Screws, All Kinds of Screws...

127 DICHA FASTENERS MFG 集財 Expansion Anchors, Sleeve Anchors, Nylon Nail Anchors...

13 DIN LING CORP. 登琳

Chipboard Screws, Drywall Screws, Furniture Screws...

81 DRA-GOON FASTENERS INC. 丞曜 Chipboard Screws, Phillips Head Screws, TEK Screws...

90 DUNFA INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD. 敦發

Bushes, Spacers, Automotive Parts, Tubes, Turning Parts...

50 E CHAIN INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. 毅程

Chipboard Screws, Drywall Screws, Machine Screws...

259 EMEK FASTENERS CO. LTD. (Turkey)

Rivet Nuts, Spacers & Round Nuts, Tubular Rivets, Special Screws...

139 EXCEL COMPONENTS MFG CO., LTD. 鑫廣

Turning Parts, CNC Parts, Forged and Stamped Parts...

122 FAITHFUL ENGINEERING PRODUCTS CO., LTD. 誠毅 Anchors, Box Nails, Door/Window Accessories...

59 FALCON FASTENER CO., LTD. 鉮達 Automotive & Motorcycle Special Screws / Bolts...

6 FANG SHENG SCREW CO., LTD. 芳生 Shoulder Bolts, Button Head Socket Cap Screws..

51 FASTENER JAMHER TAIWAN INC. 占賀

Automotive Nuts, Blind Nuts / Rivet Nuts, Bushings...

27 FASTNET CORP. 俊鉞

Dowel Pins, Flange Nuts, Weld Nuts, 4 Pronged T Nuts...

129 FIXI SRL. (Italy)

Rivet Nuts, Blind Rivets, Self-clinching, Welding Studs...

223 FONG PREAN INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. 豐鵬

Automotive Screws, Bi-metal Screws, Brass & Bronze Screws...

10 J.C. GRAND CORPORATION 俊良

All Kinds of Screws, Chipboard Screws...

62 JAU YEOU INDUSTRY CO., LTD. 朝友 Chipboard Screws, Drywall Screws, High Low Thread Screws...

314 JERN YAO ENTERPRISES CO., LTD. 正曜

Multi-station Cold Forming, Parts Forming Machines...

37 JET FAST COMPANY LIMITED 捷禾

Blind Nuts / Rivet Nuts, Aircraft & Aerospace Washers...

273 JI LI DENG FASTENERS CO., LTD. 吉立登

Alloy Steel Screws, Appliance Screws, Automotive Screws...

106 JIEN KUEN ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. 健坤

Hexagon Nuts, Nylon Cap Insert Lock Nuts, Square Nuts...

303 JIENG BEEING ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. 精斌 Forming Tool for Nut and Bolt, Dies, Molds...

302 JIN CHI HARDWARE MACHINERY 金騏

Heading and Threading Machines / Whole-plant Equipment Planning

158 JINGFONG INDUSTRY CO., LTD. 璟鋒 Hex Nylon Insert Lock Nuts, Wing Nuts with Nylon Insert...

203 JIN-YINGS ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. 晉營 Special Custom Fasteners, Auto/Motorcycle Fasteners, Special Screws…

193 JOINTECH FASTENERS INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. 群創

Customized Parts, Bolts, Screws, Nuts, Automotive Parts...

57 JOKER INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. 久可 Hollow Wall Anchors, Concrete Screws, Jack Nuts...

172 KAN GOOD ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. 鋼固 Fastener, Hardware, Plastic, Instruction Booklet Package in Bags...

128 KING CENTURY GROUP CO., LTD. 慶宇 Drop-in Anchors, Self-drilling Anchors, Sleeve Anchors...

304 KUANG TAI METAL INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. 廣泰 Stainless Steel Cold Heading Wire

74 KWANTEX RESEARCH INC. 寬仕 Chipboard Screws, Drywall Screws, Furniture Screws...

108 L & W FASTENERS COMPANY 金大鼎 Construction Fasteners, Flat Washers, Heavy Nuts...

147 LIAN CHUAN SHING INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD. 連全興 Weld Nuts, Special Parts, Special Washers, Flat Washers...

306 LIAN SHYANG INDUSTRIES CO., LTD. 連翔 Nut Formers, Nut Tapping Machines

318 LINKWELL INDUSTRY CO., LTD. 順承 All Kinds of Screws, Automotive & Motorcycle Special Screws...

16 LOCKSURE INC. 今湛

Machined Parts, Thumb Screws, Micro Screws...

276 SHANGHAI FAST-FIX RIVET CORP. 飛可斯 Blind Rivets, High Shear Rivets, Closed End Rivets...

187 SHAW GUANG ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. 紹光 Cap Nuts, Conical Washer Nuts, Flange Nuts...

295 SHEEN TZAR CO., LTD. 新讚 Self-Drilling Screw Machines & Dies

174 SHEH FUNG SCREWS COMPANY 世豐 Chipboard Screws, Countersunk Screws, Wood Screws...

176 SHEH KAI PRECISION CO., LTD. 世鎧 Bi-metal Concrete Screw Anchors, Bi-metal Screws...

123 SHEN CHOU FASTENERS INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. 神洲 Button Head Cap Screws, Chipboard Screws...

52 SHIH HSANG YWA INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. 新倡發 Flange Nuts, Flange Nylon Nuts With Washers...

168 SHIN CHUN ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. 昕群 Automotive Screws, Chipboard Screws, Customized Screws...

151 SHUENN CHANG FA ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. 舜倡發 Long Construction Fasteners and Other Modified Fasteners...

294 SHUN HSIN TA CORP. 順興達 Punches, Tungsten Carbide Nut Forming Dies, Special Dies…

153 SIN HONG HARDWARE PTE. LTD. (Singapore) 新豐 Hexagon Nuts, Hexagon Head Bolts, Blind Rivets...

28 SPEC PRODUCTS CORP. 友鋮 Lincensee Fasteners, Turned/Machined Parts...

14 SPECIAL RIVETS CORP. 恆昭 Blind Nuts / Rivet Nuts, Blind Rivets, Air Riveters...

130 STRONG JOHNNY INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD. 駿愷 Automotive & Special Parts, Cold-Forged Fasteners...

24 SUN CHEN FASTENERS INC., 展鴻鑫 Cup Washers, Flanged Head Bolts, T-head or T-slot Bolts...

145 SUNCO INDUSTRIES CO., LTD. (Japan) Distributor Specializing in Fasteners

104 SUPER DPD CO., LTD. 三御 All Kinds of Screws, Bi-metal Screws, Carbon Steel Screws...

310 TAIEAG CORPORATION 順基軒 Designed peripheral equipment suitable for fastener packaging

162 TAIWAN FASTENERS INTEGRATED SERVICE 全聯鑫 Bolts, Screws, Nuts, Precise Mechanical Parts, Stampings...

86 TAIWAN SELF-LOCKING FASTENERS IND. 台灣耐落 Nylok®, Precote®, Nycote®, Nyplas®, Loctite®...

101 TANG AN ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. 鏜安 Customized Automotive Parts and Special Fasteners

26 THREAD INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. 英德

Chipboard Screws, Flange Nuts, Heavy Nuts...

109 THUNDERBOLT INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. 雷霆

Turning Parts, SEMs Screws, Micro Screws, Electronic Fasteners...

65 TONG HEER FASTENERS (THAILAND) CO., LTD.

Hex Bolts, Stud Bolts, Socket Cap Screws, Hex Nuts...

65 TONG HEER FASTENERS CO., SDN. BHD (Malaysia)

Stainless Steel Metric Screws, Stainless Steel Screws...

191 TONG HO SHING INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD. 桐和興

Hex Washer Head Screws, Indent Hex Head Screws...

18 TONG HWEI ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. 東徽

A2 Cap Screws, Button Head Socket Cap Screws...

64 TONG MING ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. 東明

Stainless Steel Fasteners, Wire Rods...

Tooling / Dies

Efficient connection solutions for timber construction

Eurotec GmbH is an established company that specializes in fastening technology for demanding construction projects in timber as well as in deck and garden construction and has been contributing to quality and innovation for more than 20 years. Since 2013, Eurotec has been producing a selected part of the wood construction screws in its own production facility in Hagen, Germany. In 2022, the company decided to expand the production area in order to create more space and set future-oriented goals–including becoming independent of the world market as a local manufacturer and supplying innovative highperformance connectors for sustainable prefabricated timber construction and timber construction in general. The production hall was enlarged to around 7000 m² and investments were made in the machine park. As a result, the company can react quickly and flexibly to increasing market requirements and increase production capacity accordingly. Equally, local production holds great potential to effectively reduce CO2 emissions in freight transport and bulk transport from alternative procurement sources.

The Back Support for Global Fastener Distributors Achilles Seibert GmbH

The company was named after Achilles Seibert when he founded it in 1951. Timo Scholle joined in 2011 and took over the company in 2022. Today, they have 15,000 DIN ISO fastener items in stock with a paperless document management system and 100% traceability back to the materials and records even as far as 3 years ago.

Quick Response for Immediate Demand

The company works between distributors and manufacturers, and only sells to distributors, acting as an importer as well as a readily available warehouse for distributors such a Bossard, Böllhoff, Würth, from big to small brand names and shops. “It’s like going to Costco for your daily supplies, and if you need or forget something to grab and you need it immediately, you’d go to Seven Eleven (convenience store) for quick purchase. That’s where we come in for distributors. We work with them in two ways— either they buy from us because they run out of stock, or they buy fasteners of sizes which they don’t import by themselves, so we are also their importers,” said Timo.

Digitalized and Automated

Contact: Timo Scholle, Managing Director

Email: timo.scholle@achill-fasteners.com

The company runs a twenty-four-seven online web shop connected with the electronic data interchange (EDI) system, through which the orders and confirmations are transferred automatically and paperless. No more sending orders by emails or as a PDF, so no one will have to type orders manually any more. Everything is done electronically, saving more time and avoiding human errors. “Basically you’ll just need to press some buttons to order in our web shop and you’re good to go. The system will also already put distributor’s order details into their ERP system automatically.”

Reliable Source Now Precedes Cheap Prices

Timo came to the Taiwan International Fastener Show 2023 where he took the interview with Fastener World. He said he came to the show because it is crucial to keep close to existing suppliers and find new sources. “Our criteria for supplier selection is based on capacity, quality, service and price. There are many highly-developed suppliers in Taiwan with high quality, good service and good prices.”

Due to the supply chain disruption, many of his customers realize the cheapest price isn’t always the best choice. “They do not only rely on Asian supplies but also a lot on us. Likewise, we always buy the same items from different sources to make sure we always have stock,” said Timo.

The company has just started to expand their existing warehouse and product range by 50% to cope with increased demand. The expansion is expected to complete by September. The interview closed with Timo expressing his hope to continue ties and rely on each other with Taiwan and other partners globally.

Article by: Dean Tseng, Fastener World Copyright owned by Fastener World

TIFI Chairman: Industry Turns Focus to Net Zero and Electricity Saving

Chairman Tu-Chin Tsai pointed out that Taiwan fastener industry has become the third largest exporter of fasteners in the world by virtue of strong R&D capability, fast response, and excellent quality. However, in the face of changes in the global supply chain in the post-pandemic era, and the impact of geopolitics, global inflation, low birth rate, and labor shortages, Taiwan fastener industry should continue to introduce automation, smart manufacturing, and digitalization in the production process to accelerate the transformation and upgrade of the industry. They should also strengthen international collaboration, expand in overseas emerging markets, and develop new products and services to increase competitiveness and market share.

Carbon neutrality is the future trend under climate change; Tsai said the fastener industry should strengthen the promotion of net zero and electricity saving technology, and introduce smart manufacturing to go in the direction of high added value for the fastener industry to have better development. He stressed that more than 130 countries around the world have announced to achieve net-zero by 2050, including Taiwan.

Fasteners belong to the steel industry which are regulated under the EU carbon border adjustment mechanism. The future carbon content calculation, carbon trading, and cost increase are all inevitable issues for the industry, and of course, the government’s assistance is needed to work together to overcome them.

Hong Kong Screw & Fastener Council 20th Anniversary and 10th Chairman Inauguration Ceremony

On the evening of May 15, about 500 members of Hong Kong Screw & Fastener Council (HKSFC) gathered together to celebrate the 20th anniversary. The 10th Council Chairman, Mr. Ping-fai Tsui, expressed his gratitude to the leaders and guests who attended the ceremony. Over the past 20 years, with the concerted efforts of everyone, the platform of HKSFC has become more and more stable and has received the care and support from the industry colleagues, the government and the society, which has enabled HKSFC to grow stronger and stronger. On the spot, Mr. Ping-fai Tsui presented the appointment certificates to the 10th Council members. He encouraged the Association to continue to play a bridging role and contribute more to the Hong Kong fastener industry.

(China) Dongtai Fastener Industry Association Inauguration Conference

On April 22, Dongtai Fastener Industry Association celebrated its inauguration in the conference hall on the first floor of Qindong Government. Representatives from Guangdong Fastener Industry Association, Shenzhen Fastener Industry Association, Hangzhou Fastener Industry Association, Dinan Fastener Industry Association, Jiashan County Fastener Industry Association and Pinghu Fastener Hardware Association also attended.

The conference held a grand inauguration ceremony. Long-feng Huang was formally appointed as the president of Dongtai Fastener Industry Association, Yuan-ben Dai was appointed as the honorary president and Zhong-jian Yin was appointed as the honorary president. The directors in the conference presented plaques to the three presidents and took a group photo.

compiled by Fastener World

Industry Development

Taiwan CSC Lowers Wire Rod Price for Q3 2023

On June 19, Taiwan CSC announced the prices for Q3 2023. All steel products were lowered by NTD 1,000~2,000 per ton, among which, bar and wire rod are one of the items with the biggest price drop.

Due to global economic climate, European and American customers’ demand is relatively low. Fastener manufacturers are biting the bullets, many of whom said that their number of orders has been cut in half, down to about 30% to 50% of the previous level. Therefore, Taiwan CSC lowered Q3 price of bar and wire rod to help the fastener industry reduce costs and survive the hard time. The upcoming third quarter is the off-season for the construction industry, and the sales of related products is still at a low level. However, the fourth quarter is usually the peak season for the construction industry, so the end of September will be a critical point to see if the demand comes back.

Taiwan CSC Wire Rod Price, Q3 2023

Taiwan Carbon Credits Exchange Platform to be Headquartered in Kaohsiung

Taiwan Carbon Credits Exchange is being planned to be located in Kaohsiung and its information trading center to be in Taipei, with separate offices in Taipei and Kaohsiung to promote the cultivation of talents.

Kaohsiung has five advantages. It has the most demand for carbon credits. Kaohsiung had 57.37 million tons of carbon emission in 2021, accounting for one fifth of Taiwan’s national emission. There are more than 90 high-carbon-emission enterprises under surveillance. After the implementation of carbon credits and the total volume control system, the demand for voluntary reduction quota of enterprises and the demand for overseas voluntary carbon credits in Kaohsiung will be the largest in Taiwan.

Kaohsiung’s goal is to reduce over 10 million tons of emission by 2030. Plus, this city’s complete industrial chain for steel and petrochemicals creates external carbon reduction benefits through industrial alliance with large and small enterprises, and will be the main source of carbon credits supply for reduction quota.

In addition, most of Kaohsiung’s major carbon emitters are conventional heavy industries such as steel and petrochemicals. Carbon emission calculation, disclosure and analysis have been in place for years. The existing database will be a good basis for carbon credits exchange in the future. After the implementation of CBAM, the demand for carbon credits exchange will be generated from the goods entering the port of Kaohsiung. Kaohsiung has an advantageous position to establish a carbon credits exchange platform.

Taiwan Launches Science and Technology Office for Net Zero Emission

On June 31, Vice President of Taiwan's Executive Yuan, Mr. Cheng Wen-tsan, attended the launch of “Taiwan Science and Technology Office for Net Zero Emission” at the National Science and Technology Council, where he said that net zero transformation has become a global consensus, and in order to implement the goal, the government is actively working on the legal and organizational aspects, with plans to complete the mechanisms on carbon pricing, carbon inventory, carbon management, and natural carbon sinks by 2024, so that Taiwan’s net zero transformation will go a long way.

Vice President Cheng said Taiwan’s current annual net greenhouse gas emissions are about 260 million tons. In order to implement net-zero transformation, the government published “Taiwan’s Pathway to Net-Zero Emissions in 2050 and Strategy Overview” in 2022, as well as 12 key strategic action plans, and set the 2030 phased carbon reduction target. The “Climate Change Response Act” was approved by the Legislative Yuan in early 2023. In addition, the first official document signed by President of Taiwan's Executive Yuan, Mr. Chen ChienJen, after he took office, was the “Net Zero Emissions Pathway Outline Plan”, which brought together the strengths of nine ministries and commissions in the hope of implementing Net Zero transformation in various fields through technological means.

Vice President Cheng pointed out that in early May, the Legislative Yuan approved that the Environmental Protection Agency will be upgraded to become Ministry of the Environment, and that Climate Change Agency will be added. In addition, Taiwan Stock Exchange has worked with National Development Fund to form the Taiwan Carbon Exchange platform to complete the carbon trading mechanism.

Vice President Cheng pointed out that EU has published Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) on May 16, which will affect Taiwan’s future steel and fastener export to EU. The government hopes to help manufacturers move towards the goal of net zero emissions.

India’s Current Measures in Response to CBAM

India has set up an inter-ministerial group to study the impact of EU’s Carbon Boundary Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). India’s initial assessment is that the main impact will be on exports of steel, iron and aluminum, which will be taxed at 20%-35% after the official implementation. The inter-ministerial group is exploring ways to mitigate the impact of the CBAM on Indian exports and is considering ways to assist the industry, including mutual recognition of inspection and certification bodies and the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS); in addition, EU has developed different taxation standards for steel produced in low-emission short-process electric arc furnaces and steel produced in blast furnaces. India needs to investigate the structure of the domestic steel industry first to help manufacturers transform.

India Intends to Appeal Against CBAM Through WTO

The European Union aims to become a climate-neutral economy by 2050, ahead of India’s target of 2070. Senior Indian government officials and industry sources have revealed that the EU is proposing to impose tariffs of 20 to 35 percent on high-carbon emission goods such as steel, ore and cement imported from India, for which India intends to file a complaint with the World Trade Organization.

“The EU is erecting high trade barriers in the name of environmental protection to hit exports from India and many other developing countries,” said a senior Indian government official. India intends to sue EU through WTO and seek relief for exporters, especially vulnerable small businesses. Another government official involved in WTO affairs said India considers EU’s proposed carbon tax as discriminatory and tantamount to a trade barrier, and mentioned that New Delhi will abide by the UN's Paris climate agreement, questioning the legality of EU's carbon tax.

Ajay Sahai, director general of the Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO), said steel and small manufacturers need more time to meet the EU standards, and that these industries will eventually have to reduce emissions to remain globally competitive. FIEO also warned that free trade agreements between India and other countries, as well as trade agreements developed by the European Union, may be impacted by CBAM and become “all for nothing,” because the carbon tax will increase the price of many exports by nearly one-fifth, and trading partners hit by the carbon tax may dump their goods into India.

Thai Exporters Look for Opportunities in New Green Trade Rules

New global trade rules to reduce climate change may create an opportunity for Thai entrepreneurs to align with global trends, according to Keerati Rushchano, permanent secretary at the Ministry of Commerce of Thailand, who attended the “Innovation Keeping the World” seminar in Bangkok on June 7. Environmental trade regulations now play an important role in global trade due to the impact of climate change, but Thai entrepreneurs should not panic or fear because the Thai Ministry of Commerce and relevant authorities are ready to help businesses cope with the new rules. The main risk for Thai exporters is not to take the upcoming environmental trade regulations of other countries seriously. Many countries or regions are currently implementing environmental trade regulations, such as the European Union, the United States and Australia. The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) will impose taxes on carbon-intensive imports from January 1, 2026.

Thai entrepreneurs can prepare for environmental trade regulations by (1) using innovative methods and technologies in their production processes that comply with the new global trade regulations; (2) preparing data such as carbon footprint assessments, source of materials and operation traceability to demonstrate compliance with the new environmental regulations; and (3) using compliance with the new environmental regulations to attract new consumers.

Japan to Require EV Manufacturers to Disclose Carbon Emission Amount from Batteries

Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry will require manufacturers of electric vehicles to calculate and disclose the amount of carbon dioxide emissions produced in the manufacture of batteries, as a condition for granting subsidies to consumers when purchasing an EV. The European Union plans to make the disclosure of emissions mandatory from 2024, and Japan will also urge companies to take countermeasures.

Initially, pure electric vehicle manufacturers will report emissions to Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. In the future, this will be made public so that consumers can choose vehicles with lower emissions when they purchase. In addition, a third-party certification body will be set up to verify the accuracy of the calculation. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry is promoting the disclosure of emissions by companies because the concept of “carbon footprint” is gaining importance.

How Much Carbon Tax will China Steel Industry Have to Pay to the EU in the Future?

The director of the Institute of Metallurgical Industry Planning of China said that although CBAM has been officially approved, the calculation method of the actual price paid for carbon emissions from steel products is not yet clear. Therefore, the annual carbon tariff that Chinese steel industry will have to pay to the EU after CBAM is implemented cannot be accurately estimated, and can only be roughly calculated based on the materials available and the understanding of the EU carbon market. Based on CBAM rules that have been issued, considering the annual volume of steel products exported from China to the EU (e.g., 3.89 million tons in 2022), as well as the total amount of steel products exported to the EU (e.g., US$6.44 billion in 2022), and the carbon price in the EU carbon market, a preliminary estimate shows that the export cost of the Chinese steel industry will increase by 4%-6%. Roughly USD$200 million to US$400 million per year in carbon tax will have to be paid to the EU.

Vietnam Faces the Largest Impact from Imported China-made Steel

Recently, China has entered the market with a large amount of lowpriced steel. In response to China’s price cutting competition, Formosa Ha Tinh Steel Corporation (FHS) in Vietnam intends to lower its domestic order price in July by another US$50 to US$70 per metric ton for hot rolled and wire products, and US$20 to US$30 per metric ton for wire. China has produced an excessive amount of steel, so it is turning to the Southeast Asian market, especially Vietnam with emerging electronic, industrial and OEM markets. A major Chinese northeastern company’s low-carbon wire price fell 40 to 50 U.S. dollars per metric ton compared to the previous month, landing at only 620 to 630 U.S. dollars, a very low price range.

Due to the continuous price cuts by Chinese steelmakers, FHS has reduced its domestic product prices several times from May to June, including a US$20 cut for wire in May and another US$15 cut in June to cope with the risk of being challenged by Chinese steel. In response to FHS’ price cuts, Taiwan CSC said it is not affected for the time being, but will continue to tap into refined steel to reduce the impact. Imported steel from China is only about 600 U.S. dollars per metric ton, which is much lower than Vietnam’s price of 680 to 690 U.S. dollars, so Vietnamese steel is subject to competitive pressure.

(China) West Chongqing Region to Double the Size of the Parts Industry by 2027

On May 9, Chongqing Municipal People’s Government released the “Action Plan for Doubling the Development of Smart Networked New Energy Auto Parts Industry in West Chongqing Region (2023-2027)” (hereinafter referred to as the “Action Plan”). According to the plan, by 2027, the scale of smart networked new energy auto parts industry in western Chongqing will double, the number of auto parts enterprises will reach 1,000, and the output value will reach RMB 400 billion.

Jiangjin District, Hechuan District, Yongchuan District, Dazu District, Bishan District, Tongliang District, Tongnan District, Rongchang District and other areas in western Chongqing are the “pillars” of the development of Chongqing’s smart networked new energy auto parts industry.

In order to further promote the high-quality development of the smart networked new energy vehicle parts and components industry in western Chongqing, to build a high-quality ecology, and to strongly support the construction of Chongqing’s worldclass industry cluster, the Action Plan sets the goal of building a number of innovation platforms, breaking through a number of core technologies, developing a number of special products, and creating a number of industrial clusters around supporting the construction of the world-class industry cluster, developing a number of special products, creating a number of industrial chains, and accelerating the establishment of the country’s leading industry base.

Leading Chinese Auto Parts Company Invests RMB1.5 Billion in Zhongde Industrial Park

On May 28, the construction of Huaxiang New Energy Auto Parts Industrial Park was officially launched within Zhongde (Shenyang, China) High-End Equipment Manufacturing Industrial Park. It is reported that the project of Huaxiang New Energy Auto Parts Industrial Park, with a total investment of RMB 1.5 billion, is a modernized park integrating R&D, production and sales. The park is planned to have a total construction area of about 120,000 square meters, mainly containing R&D and testing centers, industrial plants, comprehensive office buildings and related ancillary facilities.

After the project is completed, it will mainly support Brilliance BMW’s new energy vehicles with automobile chassis, interior and exterior parts and battery shells, as well as develop upstream and downstream business related to the auto parts industry. The park is planned to be completed and put into production in May 2024. After the project reaches the production target, it is expected to add an annual output value of RMB 1.8 billion and an annual tax of RMB 80 million.

Chongqing City Signs More Than RMB 200 Billion Projects Focusing on New Energy Vehicles

Chongqing City 2023 Q1 Investment Meeting and Contract Signing was held in Chongqing on April 6th, with 70 major investment projects, and the official contract investment amounting to RMB 208.67 billion. The project focuses on intelligent network for new energy vehicles, integrated circuit, biomedicine, software information, technology innovation and other key industrial areas.

According to the introduction there are 55 projects above RMB 1 billion, accounting for 78.6% of the signed contracts; among them are 5 projects of RMB 10 billion, 10 projects of RMB 5 billion, 10 projects of RMB 3 billion and 30 projects of RMB 1 billion. The projects are mainly industrial-based, with 49 industrial projects and a formal contract investment of RMB 176.85 billion, accounting for 70.0% and 84.8% of the signed contracts respectively.

Almost Half of the Spanish will Consider Buying Chinese New Energy Vehicles

According to the Spanish press Diari de Tarragona, almost half of the Spanish people would consider buying a Chinese car as their next car, as Chinese new energy vehicles are on the rise. In Germany and the UK, the number of people who think so also reached 30% and 29% respectively. According to the report, China’s new energy vehicles are of high quality and affordable, and are already leading the world in the field of electric vehicles. A figure released in April by Spain’s ANFAC (Association of Automobile Manufacturers) shows that the value of Chinese cars sold in Spain in 2022 will be about 1.39 billion euros, 68 million euros higher than in 2021, which means that Chinese car brands are gaining a foothold in the European market. However, there are still some people who have opinions about cars made in China. For example, 47% of respondents have doubts about the quality of manufacturing, 43% are worried about after-sales service, 31% are unfamiliar with Chinese brands, and 17% and 9% are due to political stance and aesthetic issues.

Aerospace Fasteners Market to Garner US$11.31 Billion by 2030

The Brainy Insights predicts the global aerospace fasteners market is to grow from USD 6.17 billion in 2021 to USD 11.31 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 6.96% during the forecast period 2022-2030. The increasing aircraft modernization project in various nations and growing passenger willingness to fly by air are anticipated to boost demand for aerospace fasteners. Moreover, the growing import & export operations have resulted in higher air traffic, and the adoption of 3D & robotics technology supports the market’s growth during the forecast period. Further, the increase in demand for aerospace fasteners for defense systems in military helicopters and fighter jets is also anticipated to boost the growth of the aerospace fasteners market.

Structural Wood Screws Market to Hit US$7.5 Billion by 2032

Structural Wood Screws Market is expected to cross a valuation of USD 7.5 billion by 2032, according to the latest research report by Global Market Insights Inc. The industry growth is driven by the increasing demand for these screws in construction and home improvement projects. Expansion of the construction industry has led to the extensive usage of these screws for framing, decking, and other structural applications. Additionally, the growing popularity of DIY projects among homeowners is likely to support the business expansion. As more and more people are taking up DIY projects to save money and customize their homes, the demand for these screws is expected to increase further.

The carbon steel structural wood screws market is set to gain immense traction from 2023 to 2032 owing to the robust expansion of the building sector in emerging nations and growing public awareness of the advantages of utilizing high-quality building materials. Carbon steel screws are ideal for use in building projects due to their high tensile durability and sturdiness. Additionally, they are less prone to corrosion and rust, which increases their lifetime, and contributes to their higher acceptance rate.

The structural wood screws market has been steadily growing from the furniture and crafts application segment as more manufacturers and DIY enthusiasts use these screws in their projects. One of the primary benefits of structural wood screws is their capacity to withstand heavy weights, which makes them ideal for use in furniture where weight and pressure are a concern. Structural wood screws are used in the arts and crafts business to make a range of things, including picture frames and birdhouses, which are likely to foster segment growth through 2032. The structural wood screws industry in Europe is set to register significant growth through 2032 as more constructions are opting for wood-based structures. The increasing focus on reducing carbon footprints, there is a growing preference for wooden structures over concrete and steel. Moreover, as the demand for wooden structures continues to grow, the regional market is set to record substantial development through 2032.

Companies Development

San Shing Fastech Performance Expected to be Level with Q1

CIER announced that the purchasing manager index (PMI) of Taiwan’s manufacturing industry has contracted for three consecutive months in May. San Shing Fastech confirmed that even if the current downstream inventory is declining, the overall demand is still weak and customer orders are fewer. San Shing Fastech used to ship more than 4,000 tons per month, now only 3,000 tons, and only 70% of production capacity. The company said this year’s operation is more challenging because 80% of their products are exported to Europe and the United States, amid inflation, rising interest rates, the war between Russia and Ukraine and other unfavorable factors. At present, its Q2 performance is expected to be about the same as the first quarter.

The company’s cumulative revenue for the first four months this year was NTD 2.08 billion, down 14.55% from the same period last year.

New Best Wire Industrial Strengthens Overseas Presence and Implements Carbon Reduction

New Best Wire Industrial is a major wire rod manufacturer and is optimistic about the future economic development of ASEAN. In recent years, they have set up a factory in Vietnam and focused on the development in the ASEAN and Indian markets, to take advantage of multiple production locations and regional complementary strategies to reserve operational momentum. As for the future outlook, they pointed out that the economy turned around in the fourth quarter of last year and they are not optimistic about the first half of this year. Unit price and market demand are slowing down so they are taking conservative actions, but they have high hopes for Vietnam and ASEAN and are not ceasing overseas investment. Currently, they have acquired 66,116 square meters of land for its Vietnam plant, with the current capacity of about 1,000 tons per month. After completing the construction of the STC furnace, they will reach 5,000 tons per month by 2025. They are actively pursuing business opportunities in the ASEAN and Indian markets. Although wire rod is an energy-consuming industry, they have long focused on environmental sustainability issues and are actively promoting ESG, with advance deployment of energy saving and carbon reduction. They have established an energy saving team since 2006 and a sustainability team in 2022, with environmental, social responsibility, corporate governance management guidelines and specific action plans disclosed in the sustainability report. In terms of energy saving in production lines, all boiler fuels have been changed from heavy oil to natural gas (LNG), and all STC annealing furnace fuels have been changed from propane (LPG) to natural gas, significantly reducing carbon emissions. In addition, the solar power generation system is expected to be completed within two years. New Best Wire Industrial said that Taiwan plant’s overall revenue will grew 2.6% in 2022. They have reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 3.5% which is 1,200 tons and waste by 4.9% which is 342 tons.

ND Industries Asia Successfully Develops

Nickel-chromium Superalloys

Specialized in material application technology, ND Industries Asia is the only company in Taiwan that has successfully developed cobaltbased, nickel-based as well as nickel-chromium superalloys that are resistant to high temperatures, wear and corrosion. The demand for heat, wear and corrosion resistant materials in Taiwan is increasing, but at present, most of these materials rely on imports, which not only results in high cost but also inconsistent lead times. In addition, raw materials supplies fluctuate due to the war between Russia and Ukraine. It is expected that after ND Industries Asia obtains the certificate for the superalloy, the cost pressure of domestic wire rod manufacturers who have demand for cobalt alloy and cobalt-nickel alloy will be reduced.

Taiwanese Jern Yao Enterprises 3rd-Phase Plant to be Completed by Yearend

Jern Yao was established in 1993, specializing in the manufacture and sale of cold forging machines for screws and nuts. This year is the 30th anniversary for Jern Yao. Currently, they have an average annual production capacity of about 200 large and small machines. They have sold more than 4,700 machines since its establishment, making themselves one of the top cold forging machine manufacturers in the world. The third phase of their plant is currently under construction, with an area of 12,562 square meters, and is expected to be completed by the end of 2023. The new plant will house the industry’s latest 5-side processing machines and other high-end processing equipment. After officially launching production, it will be able to significantly increase the self-production rate of Jern Yao’s parts. All critical parts will be manufactured by Jern Yao to control lead time and quality. Looking ahead, Jern Yao will continue to invest more resources to optimize the manufacturing process and create more customized equipment to help customers get orders and move on to the next 30 years together.

SAIC Group’s New Energy Vehicles to Expand Shares Overseas

From April 26 to 29, Shanghai Mayor led a delegation from Shanghai to Indonesia to promote high-level and pragmatic cooperation between Shanghai and Indonesia to build ties between China and Indonesia. During his meeting with Minister of Maritime and Investment Coordination, Shanghai Mayor said he would further deepen the economic and trade relations and industrial cooperation between Shanghai and Indonesia, support enterprises to expand two-way investment cooperation, and welcome more Indonesian enterprises to participate in expositions. The Mayor and the Minister witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for SAIC-GM-Wuling Indonesia’s new energy vehicle project. On April 30, SAIC Group announced that its subsidiary SAIC-GM-Wuling and the Ministry of Marine and Investment Coordination of Indonesia officially signed a memorandum of understanding on new energy vehicle investment projects, which will actively expand investment in Indonesia, and introduce more new energy vehicles to the local market.

SENCO Opens Global Headquarters in Cincinnati

KYOCERA SENCO Industrial Tools (SENCO), a global leader in fasteners and power fastening tools, has announced the opening of its official global headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio. The newly renovated facility will bring employees from all SENCO divisions under the same roof, allowing closer collaboration and improved quality control, as well as fostering innovation. The grand opening held on May 25 followed an extensive expansion and renovation of the company’s production facility that began in 2021. The renovation project added 32,000 square feet of new office space for business operations staff, including executive, sales, marketing, and administrative teams. SENCO employs 400 American workers, approximately 80% of whom are now headquartered at the new facility. Kyocera Corporation, of Kyoto, Japan, acquired SENCO in 2017 and has invested millions of dollars in the Cincinnati facility to support manufacturing equipment and research and development projects over the past four years. The construction project began in January 2022 and was recently completed with all Cincinnati based employees now working from the updated facility.  Besides office and manufacturing space, the new facility is designed to have a campuslike atmosphere that inspires employees’ personal and professional development and engagement. It includes a cafeteria serving hot meals and a dedicated training, product education and innovation center.

French JPB Système Announces Production Milestone of Five Million Flight Parts

JPB Système, manufacturer of cost- and time-saving technology solutions for aerospace, aeronautic and other industries, has announced that it has manufactured five million separate flight parts since the start of its production operations over twenty years ago. The milestone predominantly comprises component parts used to produce JPB Système’s innovative LULYLOK™ B-nut self-locking device and borescope self-locking plug, both of which are supplied to global aircraft engine manufacturers including Safran, Rolls Royce, GE and Pratt & Whitney. The figure also includes a number of other smaller parts, fittings and fasteners produced across the company’s Industry 4.0 enabled manufacturing facilities. As an advanced B-nut for fittings, JPB Système’s LULYLOK™ solution features a unique self-locking device to ensure the sealing of pipes and tubes, thereby preventing loosening and leakage caused by severe vibration and extreme thermal conditions. Crucially, LULYLOK™ addresses safety concerns by eliminating the need for a lock-wire or safety cable, tab washers, cotter pins or any other method of fastening to secure the threaded parts within an aircraft’s engine. This eliminates foreign object damage while reducing maintenance costs and installation time. Similarly, the simple-to-use self-locking borescope plug – which, like LULYLOK™, comprises four separate components – eradicates the need for lockwires when securing an engine’s connections prior to visual inspection. Initially created for SAFRAN in the 1990’s, the device reduces human error and overall risk while improving efficiencies by reducing maintenance time from one hour to just 10 seconds As has been the case for many years, JPB Système’s self-locking devices are deployed by many of the world’s leading aerospace manufacturers across various aircraft engine types. These include the CFM56 from GE/Safran joint venture CFM International – acknowledged as the best-selling engine in commercial aviation history and the standard engine across the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 families; as well as CFM’s LEAP-1A, 1B and 1C engines, Pratt & Whitney’s GTF and Rolls Royce’s Trent 1000 for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

Acquisitions

B&F Fastener Supply Acquires Northern States Supply

B&F Fastener Supply, a leader in the industrial and construction supply industry, has acquired its respected, longtime competitor, Northern States Supply, to create a regional powerhouse distributor of both industrial and construction supplies in the Midwest. Established in 1988, B&F is a fast-growing, strategic industrial supply distributor. Its longstanding customer-first culture has resulted in a best-in-class customer experience. Northern States, founded in 1960, has a remarkable track record as a leading distributor of quality industrial and construction supply products with competitive pricing. Built on providing quality customer experiences and rooted in offering the best overall value, Northern States Supply will continue to operate under its name for the time-being.

The acquisition will enable both companies to join forces, strengthening their combined workforces, and offer an expanded product and service selection, including in-house custom machining, in-house custom packaging, vending solutions, power tools, tool accessories. The combined geographical reach for B&F Fastener Supply will range across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin and Nebraska. Together, with nearly 300 employees and 21 locations, B&F’s footprint will be stronger than ever before.

FastenMaster Celebrates 25 Years

FastenMaster is celebrating 25 years of serving professional building contractors. Established in 1998, FastenMaster created the category of structural wood-to-wood screws with the introduction of TimberLOK, a heavy-duty wood screw designed to eliminate the need to predrill when attaching two pieces of wood together.

Since that beginning, FastenMaster says that it has continued to differentiate itself by continually soliciting contractor feedback, and then developing highly engineered solutions that help improve installation productivity while delivering a premium finish.

FastenMaster is a division of OMG, Inc., which has over 600 employees globally, and more than 400 in Western Mass., making it one of the area’s largest employers. In addition, OMG operates manufacturing plants in Agawam, Addison, Ill, and in Rockford, Minn., and has a global sales force of over 100 in North America, Europe, and Asia, including nearly 50 for FastenMaster. In total, OMG produces over 1 billion fasteners each year.

Hillman Names Jon Michael Adinolfi as COO

Hillman Solutions Corp. promoted Jon Michael “JMA” Adinolfi to the newly created position of chief operating officer. Adinolfi, who has served as a divisional president of Hillman U.S. since 2019, will expand his role as COO to oversee Hillman’s Hardware Solutions, Protective Solutions and Canadian business segments.

“JMA has been an invaluable strategic partner to me and our leadership team during his time at Hillman,” says Doug Cahill, Hillman’s chairman and CEO. “JMA’s demonstrated ability to execute Hillman’s business strategy, build relationships with our key customers and manage operational complexity make him the perfect choice to be our COO. He has earned this promotion with his work ethic and customer-first attitude, both of which exemplify Hillman’s culture and core values.”

In other management changes, Scott Ride, president, Hillman Canada, will begin leading Hillman’s Industrial Solutions business throughout North America in addition to his current role of leading Hillman Canada.

Huyett Welcomes New Regional Sales Manager

John

McCall

Huyett is proud to announce the addition of John McCall as Regional Sales Manager for the Northeast region and Ontario, Canada. McCall began his career in industrial parts and equipment sales 35 years ago as a sales manager for WAHA Company while completing his MBA at Union College in Schenectady, NY. He then moved into a retail consultant position at True Value Company, where he managed regional advertising programs, implemented open market surveys, and developed strategic business plans. During his time with True Value, he ranked #2 nationally in sales revenue increase and signed a record number of new stores in 2004. His career has earned him multiple records in sales activity at Briggs and Stratton Company and CNH Industrial and given him strategic, creative, and managerial marketing experience.

McCall states that his choice to join Huyett’s team was largely influenced by Huyett’s leadership, honesty, and values: “They don’t just have their mission statement on a wall. They live those words. It is not every day you see this culture and the people working in it. When you have an opportunity to be part of something like that, you take advantage of it and work to contribute and grow it.”

Huyett CEO, Timothy O’Keeffe, believes the new addition will bring unique expertise and experience to contribute to Huyett’s goal of developing personal customer relationships.

Visits Roadmap for Interchange Between Taiwan and Japan Fastener Industry

For more than 30 years, Fastener World has been devoted to bridging the fastener industry between Taiwan and the rest of the world. Our motive and mission statement is to bring Taiwan fasteners to the world stage where they shine. Going through our history records, we have had the honor of Bossard Group’s senior vice president of purchasing visiting us. We visited Brighton-Best International (BBI) which is the largest fastener distributor in the U.S., Bosch’s plant in Germany, as well as Sacma which is a major fastener machine manufacturer in Italy, and Böllhoff Group, as well as many well-known fastener companies in China, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Thailand. We traveled to Europe to participate in the social event with EFDA (European Fastener Distributor Association).

Over the years we have reached out to Japanese fastener associations and manufacturers to provide Taiwan with a glimpse of Japan’s fastener development through interviews. We introduce Taiwanese fastener products to Japanese purchasers at manufacturing shows held in many places across Japan. Over time, many Japanese fastener owners of large, medium and small sizes learn more about Taiwan as the fastener kingdom. When asked why they come to Taiwan every year to look for supply partners, most Japanese business owners said they prefer Taiwan fasteners for the quality close to the requirements of Japan. They think Taiwanese business owners keep their word and offer acceptable prices.

Among these Japanese companies, Sunco Industries which is one of the largest fastener distributors in Western

Japan considers Taiwan fastener manufacturers to be very important partners and comes to Taiwan every year to strengthen partnership and find new partners. From many of our past interviews with Sunco Industries, our readers have learned that Sunco Industries is crossing the border of Japan to the international market with the launch of its new English website. For many years Fastener World has been a critical medium that helps Sunco Industries make their name known to the world, along with their fastener partners in Taiwan as an integral part of their turning point to go international.

Against this backdrop, Sunco Industries’ President Mr. Yoshihide Okuyama led Purchasing Manager Ms. Miki Hiraoka, and Mr. Tomokazu Takada, Assistant Manager of International Trade Division, to pay a visit to President William Liao of Fastener

President Okuyama viewing the wall of Fastener World

World and his staff. Mr. Takada said the request for a visit is to get a thorough knowledge of the characteristics and structure of fastener heartlands in northern, central and southern Taiwan, to learn the status quo and hear the voice of fastener manufacturers in Taiwan, and to convey Sunco Industries' needs through Fastener World. Secondly, President Okuyama hopes for Fastener World to connect Taiwan, Japan and global fastener partners and create new business opportunities.

As a trusted medium for industry players, we arranged for Sunco Industries to visit Mr. Tu-Chin Tsai who is the chairman of Taiwan Industrial Fasteners Institute (TIFI) and Josh Chen who is the chairman of Taiwan Fastener Trading Association (TFTA). In addition, we welcomed Sunco Industries to Fastener World’s location for a briefing where President Liao gave a detailed account of Taiwan fastener history as well as the potential for collaboration between Taiwan and Japan.

Sunco Industries Meets Chairman Tu-Chin Tsai, with Further Understanding of Taiwan's Industry Structure

President Okuyama asked Chairman Tsai about the structure of Taiwan fastener industry. The chairman explained that up to 80% of fastener manufacturers in Taiwan are located within the radius of Luzhu District in Kaohsiung City, which is enough to provide one-stop purchase for overseas buyers. The chairman emphasized that Taiwanese companies are highly committed to commercial credibility and their technical capabilities are already comparable to those of European and American companies. Taiwanese companies are qualified to provide strong support for Sunco Industries and other Japanese companies in their expansion to the global market. President Okuyama said the appeal of Taiwan to Japan is the resilience and wholeness of fastener supply chain. Therefore, he is looking forward to Sunco Industries’ further collaboration with Taiwan's supply chain, and utilizing Sunco Industries’ distribution routes, as well as achieving shared benefits and mutual growth.

Sunco Industries Meets Chairman Josh Chen, Expanding Partnership Network

TFTA has the upper hand in accessing fastener distribution in Taiwan. In his term of office, Chen seeks to unlock nodes to overseas distribution routes for Taiwan, and as such he understands why Sunco Industries’ needs to expand distribution collaboration between Taiwan and Japan. President Okuyama said lacking the knowledge of Taiwan’s trade and distribution will often bring obstacles against purchase and supply between Taiwan and Japan. To that, Chen explained the structure and demand of Taiwan fastener trade, emphasizing that Taiwan fastener traders have long been spreading risks in Southeast Asia and many places in the world. They have successfully weathered various economic crises in the past half century; therefore, Japanese business owners can rest assured for stable product supply. Additionally, President Okuyama said there is much room for growth in the proportion of fasteners that Japan purchases from Taiwan, and therefore he expects to expand fastener trade collaboration with Taiwan.

President Okuyama (left) and Chairman Josh Chen (right)

Chairman Tsai Tu-Chin (4th from right) took Sunco Industries on a factory tour

Sunco Industries Visits Fastener World, Picturing the Macro Trends of Fastener Industry & Expanding Partnership Network

World has an edge in obtaining market intelligence and analyzing data. President Liao and President Okuyama touched on the challenges, opportunities and the upcoming big trends in Taiwan fastener industry. President Okuyama stated that Japan is tracking issues regarding the EU carbon tax, and he is interested to know if Taiwan manufacturers have taken steps to react to it. President Liao said both Chairmen Tsai and Chen are guiding the fastener companies in Taiwan to reduce carbon emissions, and they are also in close discussion with the government and Bureau of Foreign Trade. In fact, there are some Taiwanese business owners who have provided valuable advice in carbon reduction technology for the government and the industry. Net-zero is the most important transformation challenge now and Taiwan will continue to make breakthroughs at the new turning point.

President Okuyama was also concerned about China's first investigation into Taiwan's trade barriers and wanted to know the views of Taiwanese manufacturers. President Liao explained that most of the manufacturers are cautiously optimistic, and although it is likely that China’s wire rods could enter Taiwanese market in the future and create partial impact, this can be turned into a favorable opportunity for Taiwan (see the editorial in May 2023 Issue of Fastener World magazine), without affecting the quality of supply to Japanese manufacturers, while enabling Taiwan to reduce manufacturing costs.

President Okuyama said Fastener World is welcome to bring a delegation of Taiwanese fastener companies to the headquarters of Sunco Industries. He will also make arrangements to assist the delegation in visiting local Japanese companies.

Before leaving Fastener World, President Okuyama, Ms. Hiraoka and Mr. Takada took a group photo with our staff members. President Okuyama shook the hands of each of our members and expressed his gratitude.

Lastly, Sunco and several Fastener World representatives went to the welcome dinner party for Kaohsiung fastener show exhibitors. During the event, President Liao introduced President Okuyama to the past chairmen of TFTA, as well as the presidents of fastener associations from the U.S., Europe and Brazil who were present, closing this trip for stronger Taiwan-Japan ties with a perfect ending.

Article by Dean Tseng, Fastener World Copyright owned by Fastener World

Fastener

▲ President Okuyama (left), President William Liao (middle left), Tomokazu Takada (middle right), purchasing manager Miki Hiraoka (right)

Fastener Innovation Alley

Fischer FAZ II Plus Bolt Anchors

Fischer has launched the FAZ II Plus bolt anchor for construction projects. The new product has a higher assessed tensile load-bearing capacity and material strength than the previous generation. The setting process (M8-M24) does not require cleaning the drill hole. This anchor is approved for different types of construction materials, including concrete, sand-lime brick and steel fiber-reinforced concrete. A service life of 120 years allows the anchor to be used for various applications.

FAZ II Plus was made for transferring high static and medium dynamic loads in cracked and non-cracked concrete. The anchors are designed for use in sand-lime brick (except for dynamic applications). A European Technical Assessment (ETA) provides added safety. The new ETA confirms the application of diameter versions M16-M24 in galvanized and stainless steel materials for dynamic loads. This requires fewer fastening points and anchors per application and project.

compiled by Fastener World

JOISTUD Clinching Stud Bolt by Nitto Seiko

The automotive industry uses clinching studs that are pressed into mating materials such as steel plates. To meet the requirements for higher precision and quality products, Nitto Seiko developed JOISTUD-S to reduce warpage and burrs while providing greater antirotation.

They conducted research using manufacturing and dies making technologies to develop JOISTUD-HT with high anti-rotation capability, JOISTUD-SS with space saving function, JOISTUD-WP with water resistant function and JOISTUD-S with high strength. JOISTUD-WP is a product with water resistant function. Like JOISTUD-S, JOISTUD-HT can be simply pressed onto fastening elements to achieve higher product quality than ever before, providing strong support for customers' production.

While conventional clinching stud bolts have an evenly thick leaf-shaped protruding anti-rotation part, the JOISTUD series has an anti-rotation protruding part with a ring design only on the edge of the leaf. The anti-rotation part is also designed to prevent the buckling of the fastener. In addition, the groove inside the anti-rotation protrusion can accommodate the fastener that is deformed during pressing, preventing the deformed part from protruding toward the screw and forming a burr, and increasing the anti-rotation capability in the rotation direction.

Yellow Trivalent Chromate Plating by Japan Heiwa Kaken

At present, trivalent chromates include chromates, unichromates and a black variant (chromates are silver white), but they have never appeared yellow like hexavalent chromates. In the past, hexavalent chromium plating was mostly used for yellow colored products. However, in light of global environmental issues, Heiwa Kaken has developed a surface treatment technology that can give a yellow or red color like hexavalent chromate does, even on trivalent products.

Characteristics of Trivalent Yellow:

* Giving a yellow or red interference color as does hexavalent chromate!

* Corrosion resistance is equivalent to trivalent chromate: 72 hours without white rust, 120 hours without red rust!

* No hexavalent dissolution will be detected!

* If used together with trivalent chromate, it can be used to distinguish minor differences in size and threads.

Hillman – PowerPro® Structural Wood Screws

PowerPro® Structural Wood Screws are engineered for speed, low energy consumption, strength, and durability. A complete line of innovative Building Code Approved Structural Screws that outperform other fasteners. The new program provides a vast selection of screw sizes and head styles. The patented screw design offers features that are unmatched in the category and sets a new benchmark for performance.

Structural LAG – General purpose structural fastener designed for wood-to-wood construction and ideal for a variety of indoor and outdoor projects. Star-drive screw with low-profile head. 1/4", 5/16" & 3/8" diameters, lengths up to 12".

TIMBERTITE ® – Heavy-duty structural fastener ideal for landscape walls, decks, fencing, and other wood-to-wood connections. Hex-head screw. 1/4" diameter, lengths up to 10".

LUMBERTITE® – General purpose, heavy-duty structural wood fastener designed for wood-to-wood construction without predrilling. Star-drive screw with low-profile flat head. 1/4" diameter, lengths up to 12".

LEDGERTITE® – Designed to fasten the ledger board directly to the rim joist of a house without pre-drilling or the need for a washer. Hex-head screw with built-in washer. 5/16" diameter, 3-5/8" & 5" lengths.

TRUSSTITE ® – Designed to join engineered lumber together (LVL, PSL and LSL). Typically, these are joined with through bolts or nailing/screwing on both sides. Hex-head screw with built-in washer colored red for easy post-inspection identification.

InventHelp New Fastener Accessory for Threaded Holes (NJD-2506)

"I'm a contractor and I wanted to create a new fastener accessory that can be used when re-inserting a screw in a damaged threaded hole," said an inventor, from Milltown, N.J., "so I invented the NO MORE LOOSE SCREWS. My design would increase friction, allowing you to effortlessly drive the screw into the threaded hole."

The invention provides an effective way to help secure loose screws in wood with applications including cabinets, door hinges, and strikeplates. In doing so, it eliminates the spinning issues associated with damaged threads. As a result, it increases efficiency and it eliminates the need to re-drill and re-thread a hole. The invention features a practical design that is easy to install and use so it is ideal for contractors and do-it-yourselfers.

The original design was submitted to the New Jersey sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers.

Disruptive Sealing Technology by JPB Système

The 5mm Smart Washer is a disruptive smaller-sized smart washer sealing technology that improves MRO efficiencies by reducing the need to manually check the torque level because of the touchless and wireless measurement of bolt axial load.

The thickness of the washer has been reduced by more than one-third. JPB Système has leveraged improvements in strain gauge technology to develop a smaller Smart Washer variant that is much easier to integrate and retrofit while delivering the same functional benefits as its larger counterpart. The smaller size of the washer allows for it to be used across an increased number of areas within the aircraft, whereas the original 7.6mm washer is more suitable to experimental scenarios in on-the-ground test environments.

The washer uses intelligent connectivity by incorporating a proprietary strain gauge, as well as a transmission system into the washer, which through an accompanying reading device (Smart Reader), relays the information to maintenance engineers. Engineers can be quickly alerted to fasteners that are too tight or too loose and can address them accordingly to limit aircraft downtime. JPB now allows the engineers to view the percentage of the tension rather than just the value of the bolt axial load due to the relative measurement which calibrates the Smart Washer directly on the customer’s bolt. This has increased the accuracy of the device from +/- 6% to +/- 2.5%.

The new validated redundancy measurement allows Smart Washer to ‘control’ itself to eliminate incorrect readings in the unlikely event of a software issue. This is enabled by doubling the number of measurement points on the washer, which means that upon a false reading, the system immediately alerts the engineer before taking another measurement from another area of the device.

In the Face of the Recession, How can Business Operators Cope with Challenges?

With the epidemic almost reaching an end, the global industry is eagerly awaiting a quick recovery of the market and for supply & demand to catch up with the production lines ASAP. This sounds logical, but is it really the case? At this stage, the market seems to have a different voice.

According to the feedback received from Fastener World's recent visits to several benchmark factories, traders and equipment manufacturers, the performance of some Taiwanese fastener manufacturers in Q1 2023 seems to be a bit contrary to the expectation, and they are not enjoying the revenue dividends that should be generated by the slowdown of the epidemic. Many business owners said that the performance of orders on hand is not as good as expected, not only new orders have not seen a significant increase, but even the orders already in hand last year have been reduced by about 25% due to some customers' requests to cut orders or delay shipments, which can be said to be quite difficult to business operators. Some industry players even pessimistically said that this wave of recession may not turn well until the middle of 2024. However, until then, Taiwan fastener industry, which has always been dedicated to hard work for years, can only sit back and wait for death?

To look at the development of Taiwan fastener industry in the past, exports were in a strong position until 2018, and in 2020 the outbreak of the epidemic led to the temporary shutdown of production lines in Europe and the U.S., and the market demand came into a freeze and turned down sharply, after which the demand rebounded again, and the demand for urgent orders from customers increased sharply. Unfortunately, in 2022 the outbreak of the war between Russia and Ukraine had an associated impact on international maritime transportation and related raw material costs. Despite the sudden increase in cost pressure and the constant fluctuations of supply & demand in the industry, we have heard from time to time that some companies have been able to maintain as profitable a performance as possible at different stages of market adversity through appropriate cost control strategies. So, instead of getting stuck in a quagmire of poor orders, why don't business operators think differently about whether they can take advantage of the market downturn and turn the challenge into a boost to their growth and sustainability through different thinking and practices? Perhaps, this is a great opportunity for companies to make changes and get more orders in the future.

In view of this, we have synthesized the experience and practices of many successful predecessors and summarized several suggestions that may be available for the reference of today's fastener business operators and can accelerate the construction of the road to sustainable business development in the future:

1. Always pay attention to physical health - Only with a healthy body can a business operator have sufficient physical and mental strength to help the company overcome every difficulty and challenge. Therefore, pay attention to the body health, regular exercise, healthy diet and regular health check-ups is definitely the only way. If an operator is always sick, how can he/she have more time and energy to think about the company's future business deployment and lead employees to move forward?

2. Be optimistic about things - The industrial development is not always smooth. In the past few years, many big events happened in the international market such as the depreciation of USD, the opening of the Chinese market, the Middle East oil crisis, the Asian financial turmoil, SARS, etc., causing many ripples in the development of the industry. If a business leader often loses his/her temper due to sudden challenges, he/she will easily lose the ability to think calmly while making important decisions, which will eventually backfire. Therefore, operators should learn to adapt to these adversities, do as much as they can, and face every thorny challenge in front of them with a positive and optimistic attitude.

3. Proper control of financial cash flow - A smooth cash flow is one of the factors affecting the longevity of a business. In particular, many businesses often take out long-term or short-term loans from banks in order to make investments or expand their operations. In bad times, poor cash flow control may lead to liquidity failure and closure. Therefore, business owners should always have a good understanding and proper control of their own finances and cash flow, and make flexible adjustments and operations when necessary.

4. Pay more attention to government subsidy programs - Unlike some large consortia with abundant financial resources, Taiwan fastener industry mostly consists of SMEs, which often need external subsidies and resources to make transformation or huge investment before they can be realized. At present, many Taiwanese government units such as Industrial Development Bureau, Bureau of Foreign Trade, MIRDC, etc. have provided many subsidy plans and stimulus programs for the fastener industry to upgrade and transform, staff training or investment in factories, and even some universities and other related departments or institutions are capable of providing relevant technical research cooperation. The industry may wish to assess their own needs and make good use of these channels to obtain as many resources as possible in order to enhance their international competitiveness faster and increase the development gap with other competitors.

5. Regular visits/contacts with existing customers - For long-term stability, it is not enough to rely on the availability of new orders, so it is necessary to find ways to retain existing customers. Through regular contact with them, companies can also get to know the market development and industry needs, develop new technologies and products, and further pursue more opportunities for new orders from customers. As mentioned above, even if the market is not good, there are still companies that can find business opportunities and even make a fortune in the face of adversity. We must keep our confidence and work hard to turn around and create another bull market even in a bear market.

6. Pay attention to the emergence of new business models - many new concepts and trends may cause rapid changes in the fastener supply chain, and one inattentiveness may make you overtaken by other competitors. For example, the recently discussed hot issues such as carbon emission check, energy saving and carbon reduction, carbon neutrality, online real-time order placement, etc. are all foreshadowing the future development trend of the industry, and business owners should definitely pay close attention to keep up with the pace.

7. Training of employees - When a company has a lot of orders, it can focus on business performance. When the orders are low, it can have more time to review the operation of each production line in the factory and improve customer services, as well as strengthen the training of employees' skills. When the economy improves, the company will show better strength to win more orders from customers.

8. Strengthen procurement to reduce costs - In a market downturn, price cutting and more alternative options will proliferate, causing many uncompetitive operators to eventually exit the market. Therefore, it is important to have good purchasing bargaining ability, and operators can use this ability to significantly reduce costs and reduce the pressure on their business.

9. Go international - In the face of a market downturn, companies should go international to explore business opportunities. Businesses with sufficient financial resources can expand their business scale through overseas expansion, factory establishment, new equipment procurement or investment and M&A. In addition, they can also participate in international exhibitions in different regions for marketing and promotion. Not only can they meet with customers directly and observe the current market situation, but more importantly, they can also find multiple channels for new customer development more quickly.

10. Take the opportunity to find good employees – severe disagreements between employers and employees often occur in bad times, but this can be also a good time for employers and employees to calm down and think about the problem. If the disagreement is handled properly through communication, good employees will value the job opportunity more, and both employers and employees will appreciate the blessings of the time together.

According to the author's past experience in exhibiting overseas, most of the buyers I met at shows attached more importance to quality, technology and service in general, which are the very advantages Taiwan fastener industry possesses. Although this recession may make some industry players feel anxious about the future for a short period of time, however, as long as business operators can play an active leadership role at this stage, lead their employees to turn the adversity into an advantage, and surpass their competitors while they are still feeling sorry for themselves, with the strong development of Taiwan fastener industry accumulated over the past decades and the trust of international customers, I believe that they will eventually overcome waves of difficulties and embrace the prosperity and growth in the future.

Article by Gang Hao Chang, Vice Editor-in-Chief of Fastener World Copyright

owned by Fastener World

Financial Reports of Fastener Companies

Japan (JPN)

South Asia

Sundram Fasteners

The above table lists the companies whose financial year ends at the end of March, except for Kyowa Kogyosyo which ends at the end of April.

Amatei's 2023 revenue was 5,485 million yens, up 7.9% from 5,084 million yens in 2022. Net profit grew significantly, by 77 million yens, but the company expects a significant decrease in profit for 2024.

KFC's 2023 revenue fell 12.8% from 25,957 million yens to 22,627 million yens, and profit fell even more, by about 45%, but the company forecasts a 10% increase in revenue in 2024.

In 2023, Kyowa Kogyosyo's revenue increased by 13.3% to 13,213 million yens, compared to 11,659 million yens in 2022. Net profit grew by only 0.9% due to a 30% drop in operating profit. The company forecasts a 5% decline in sales in FY2024.

Sanko Techno's revenue increased by 10% to 20,604 million yens from 18,735 million yens. Net profit increased by 30% to 1,395 million yens from 1,071 million yens, but the company forecasts revenue to grow by only 2% in FY2024.

vs.

vs. 42,841.7

Nifco's revenue increased by 13.4% to 321,771 million yens from 283,777 million yens. Net profit declined by 7.8%. The company is forecasting less than 1% growth in revenue and net profit for FY2024.

Yamashina's revenue increased by 8% to 11,914 million rupees from 11,030 million rupees. Net profit fell 20.7% to 434 million rupees from 548 million rupees, but the company is forecasting 12.6% growth in revenue and 3.5% growth in profit for FY2024.

Simmonds Marshall's revenue increased by 16.1% from 1,471.669 million rupees to 1,709.741 million rupees. Net profit for the year was a loss of 27.551 million rupees.

Sterling Tools' revenue increased by 26.8% from 4,712.425 million rupees to 5,976.544 million rupees. Net profit increased by 39.3% to 414.295 million rupees from 297.281 million rupees, showing the company's significant growth in FY2023.

Sundram Fasteners' revenue increased by 15.5% from 49,020.6 million rupees to 56,627.5 million rupees. Net profit increased by 8.3% to 4,946.9 million rupees from 4,567.2 million rupees.

▼Fastener ▼Wire Rod ▼Hardware Parts ▼Hand Tool

1. Fastener Companies

1. Fastener Companies

2. Fastener-related Material & Equipment Companies

3. Hand Tool Companies

After five years of hiatus, the 6th edition of Taiwan International Fastener Show returned to Kaohsiung Exhibition Center with an online plus physical exhibition. According to the show organizer’s post-show report, the show attracted nearly 300 exhibitors and used around 850 booths, as well as nearly 8,000 buyers from 60 countries on May 3-5. Overseas buyers were mainly from India, the U.S., Japan, Germany, and Thailand. During the event, the show organizer also gave lots of industrial forums, procurement meetings and the “Manufacturers Win” podcast, attracting many industry experts and scholars to share their experiences and achievements. Another highlight of this year’s event was the new “Raw Materials, Dies and Hand Tools Zone”, connecting through the entire fastener ecosystem.

The “Global Fastener Forum” held on the first day of the show invited the presidents of the U.S., German and Italian fastener distributors associations, as well as speakers from domestic leading companies to talk about net zero, international market analyses, smart manufacturing, electric vehicles and other issues, attracting over 200 domestic and overseas companies in attendance.

Taiwan International Fastener Show 2023

High Quality Charm of Taiwan Fasteners Attracts Global Visitors

The show organizer also invited 49 international buyers from 18 countries, including Mexico, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Brazil, New Zealand, Finland, the U.S., Canada, and the United Arab Emirates to participate in 152 one-on-one procurement meetings with 24 industry players, in order to facilitate business matching and opportunities.

Fastener World’s booth used the bar theme as the design concept, coupled with a popcorn machine to provide freshly popped popcorn, as well as bread, hot-pressed sandwiches, and beverages for visitors to take a break and to match with fastener suppliers from Taiwan and many other countries through Fastener World. We also met pipe related companies from the U.S. eagerly looking for high quality threaded rods, nuts and washers from Taiwan, as well as Japanese distributors looking for fasteners from Taiwan, and European fastener stockists

Article by Fastener World editors Copyright owned by Fastener World

looking for new and existing customers. During the three days, Fastener World’s stand was crowded with lots of customers. These overseas visitors unanimously expressed to us that although Taiwan is facing inflation and cost pressure together with the rest of the world, the high quality charm of Taiwan fasteners is still irresistible.

The show organizer has also made its announcement after the show that the 2024 edition of Taiwan International Fastener Show is dated to be given at Kaohsiung Exhibition Center on April 16-18. For more info about the show, please always keep yourself updated through reading Fastener World magazines and official website at www.fastener-world.com.

Taiwan Int’l Fastener Show Opening Night Party Gathering Guests from Home and Abroad

On May 03, the organizer of Taiwan International Fastener Show held a grand opening dinner gala at Kaohsiung Marriott Hotel. All exhibitors and VIPs from home and abroad were invited to the event, hoping to heat up the interaction between exhibitors and VIPs from home and abroad in a relaxing way, and to increase the possibility of future cooperation. Kaohsiung City Mayor Chi-Mai Chen, Taiwan CSC Chairman ChaoTung Wong, U.S. National Fastener Distributors Association (NFDA) President Nick Ruetz, European Fastener Distributor Association (EFDA) President Andreas Bertaggia, Italian Union of Fastener Distributors (UDIB) President Riccardo Bonalumi, as well as many other guests from relevant industries and government officials were also present.

Kaohsiung Mayor ChiMai Chen was invited to give a speech on stage and said, “Taiwan is the 3rd largest fastener exporter in the world. Many European manufacturers have praised Taiwan fasteners as the product they would prefer to use in important construction projects. Of the 3,131 fastener factories in Taiwan, 30% are located in Kaohsiung, accounting for 53% of Taiwan’s NT$229.6 billion fastener output. Taiwan fastener industry, combined with the help of major material manufacturers such as Taiwan CSC, forms a complete supply chain in the upstream, midstream and downstream. In addition, the price of Taiwan fasteners has increased in recent years, and local manufacturers have also extended into the fields of medical materials, electric vehicles, offshore wind power, and aerospace technology. With the growing demand for customized products, Taiwan-made high value-added products will also bring industrial opportunities for Taiwan fasteners, and the global fastener industry will have more diversified and strong development in the future. When the EU

carbon tariff will be implemented soon, Kaohsiung City Government and Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs will also assist the industry to pass the certification and seize the low carbon net zero market in response to the ESG requirements. This exhibition will not only let global industry players know more about the fastener industry cluster in Kaohsiung, but also provide high quality fastener technology and industry supply chain and one of the best fastener trading and fastener exchange platform in Asia, so that manufacturers can find the latest and best technology and products.”

“Congratulations to all of you who have finally gone through the epidemic and can interact with each other face to face without wearing masks. Although Taiwan fastener industry mostly consists of small and medium-sized enterprises, every year it still earns for Taiwan a lot of foreign exchange due to the high export oriented attribute. Even though it was not easy to operate during the previous epidemic and the cost of materials and processes was high, Taiwanese companies still maintained good production efficiency, which is worthy of recognition. Last year, Taiwan exported more than 6.2 billion U.S. dollars worth of fasteners, or 1.67 million tons, ranking 2nd in the world by weight, and playing a pivotal role in the fields of construction, industry, military, defense, electronics, 3C, automotive, aerospace, medical materials, and wind power. As the second international professional fastener exhibition in Asia, we believe this exhibition will strengthen the two-way communication between the global fastener industry and exhibitors, and bring business opportunities to the fastener industry.,” said Director of BOFT Kaohsiung Office Mrs. Hui-Chu Lu.

“Taiwan fastener industry has powerful strengths with hightech, high production value and high-end production as its main features, and enjoys the reputation of “Kingdom of Fasteners” in the international market. While many factories around the world were shut down during the epidemic, Taiwan’s fastener factories remained in normal operation, attracting buyers to turn to Taiwan for procurement. The importance of Kaohsiung in the fastener industry cannot be underestimated, as more than 1,000 out of 3,000 fastener factories in Taiwan are located in Kaohsiung, and after overseas buyers come to Kaohsiung, they can also visit fastener factories less than an hour away by car, and even place orders.” said Taiwan Industrial Fasteners Institute (TIFI) Chairman Tu-Chin Tsai.

As this exhibition returned to be a live event again after 5 years of postponement due to the epidemic, and it was also the most important industry event for Taiwan fastener industry to show the soft power of fastener production to global buyers, the opening dinner gala on that day was particularly meaningful.

Global Fastener Forum 2023

Experts Gather Together to Discuss Int’l Market, Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction Trends

The international fastener market is ever-changing, and for the Taiwanese industry, most of the sales are exported, so it would be helpful for them to understand the changing needs of the global fastener industry and keep up with the international trend to develop more markets and expand their customer base. In order to let Taiwanese companies get a head start in the competitive market, the organizer of Taiwan International Fastener Show (Fastener Taiwan) arranged a “Global Fastener Forum” in the morning of the opening day, inviting Nick Ruetz, President of National Fastener Distributors Association (NFDA), Andreas Bertaggia, President of European Fastener Distributor Association (EFDA), Riccardo Bonalumi, President of Italian Union of Fastener Distributors (UDIB), Chun-Te Chu, Executive Assistant to President of Shuenn Chang Fa Enterprise, and Peter Wu, Greater China Product Marketing Supervisor of Atotech Taiwan Limited, as speakers of the forum to give their thematic speeches on the international market, industry trends, industry applications and zero carbon reduction, and other important issues, hoping that through the insightful views of “senior industry observers” attendees could better understand the current situation and hot trends in different regions and the competitiveness of Taiwan fastener industry could be promoted and move towards a more forward-looking future.

“More than 90% of Taiwan’s fasteners are exported, and about 70% of them are exported to Europe and the U.S. The export unit price has grown 31% from US$2.9 per KG in 2018 to US$3.8 per KG last year, which is an important contribution to Taiwan’s economy. Taiwanese fasteners are widely used in various industries around the world, which shows that Taiwanese fasteners have been recognized worldwide. In addition, with the increasing global emphasis on environmental protection, net zero emission is not only an environmental issue, but also an inevitable trend of global economic development and an important issue for the international competitiveness of Taiwanese industry. In the future, stainless steel, anti-corrosion and composite energy application fasteners will demonstrate developmental potential. The industry can actively introduce recycled materials, green manufacturing and energy-saving and carbon-reducing products. The government will also assist the industry in low-carbon transformation to secure more international orders,” said Director of BOFT Kaohsiung Office (MOEA) Ms. Hui-Chu Lu.

“The show this year attracted 300 domestic and foreign exhibitors from steel materials, wire, finished fasteners, machinery, tooling, and hand tools industries, fully demonstrating the strength of Taiwanese industry. Not only the EU will initiate the trial run of CBAM measures in October this year, but the U.S. is also drafting a related bill, making carbon neutrality and carbon trading an issue that the industry must actively implement,” said Director of Exhibition Department (TAITRA) Ms. Emilia Shih.

Highlights from the Forum

NFDA President Nick Ruetz:

N. America Industrial Fastener Market to Reach 4.5% CAGR by 2030

In his report, President Nick Ruetz pointed out the important trends in the N. American market today. The N. American fastener market was once estimated to be worth more than US$18 billion by 2021, with major demand coming from the automotive, trucks, heavy equipment, general industrial, and construction sectors. To solve the current labor shortage problem, U.S. manufacturers are actively looking for suppliers to help them remove time from applications through engineering, supply other OEM components and offer value-added services such as Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) & Kitting. The industrial fastener market in North America is expected to reach a CAGR of 4.5% by 2030 (compared to a pre-epidemic forecast of 2.5%), and the fastest growing fastener markets in North America are electric vehicles, solar energy, raw material processing, food machinery and construction. In addition, growth trends in the lightweight metal and plastic fastener markets are expected to contribute to the lightweighting of vehicles. Because of the supply chain disruptions caused by the epidemic, many U.S. companies are reshoring or nearshoring their business, which has led to a 150% increase in new job opportunities in the post-epidemic era. However, U.S. manufacturers also leverage a variety of distribution channels to ensure continued access to overseas-produced components and to provide a buffer in the domestic supply chain. According to Ruetz, good partnerships are key to mutual success, as key relationships between distributors and manufacturers can ensure new manufacturing projects can be supported and reduce lead times through better planning and sharing information. The industry must think of new ways to be most efficient in business relationship through automation and technology to create mutual success, connect distributors/manufacturers/ suppliers together to help solve problems, and train new generation of workers in fasteners and manufacturing.

EFDA President Andreas Bertaggia: Taiwan is a Very Important Partner for EU Fastener Imports

In this era of volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA), EFDA already has as many as 2,500 major distributor members across Europe, employing over 44,000 staff and with an annual turnover of 10 billion euros, making it a very important sales target for Taiwanese suppliers. Data show that the weight of fasteners imported by the EU from Taiwan reached about 460,000 tons in 2017, and although it dropped to about 380,000 tons in 2020 due to the epidemic, it slowly rebounded in the following years and exceeded 500,000 tons in 2022, a new high since 2017. President Andreas Bertaggia mentioned in his presentation that there are many major challenges in the market today, such as geopolitical tensions, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the latest regulatory measures in the EU supply chain (e.g., CBAM, CSDDD, EU Forced Labour Regulation, etc.) and the increasing diversification of supply sources, but these challenges can also create many business opportunities. It is important to note that many customers in the marketplace now require standards that are even more stringent than the regulations, and fastener distributors often evaluate suppliers based on compliance with these standards, and some EU fastener distributors are beginning to evaluate Taiwanese suppliers based on their direct and indirect carbon emission data.

UDIB President Riccardo Bonalumi: Italian Fastener Market Faces Cost and Regulatory Challenges

According to UDIB President Riccardo Bonalumi, the Italian fastener market has about 300 distributors and 300 manufacturers, with an annual turnover of 2.1 billion euros, of which 80% is contributed by distributors (30% of which are from UDIB members). Currently, Italian fastener distributors are facing many new challenges, such as the anti-dumping duty imposed by the EU on imports of specific carbon steel fasteners from China, increased inspections by the Italian Customs on tax circumvention, regulations restricting the use of certain materials, significant increases in material and energy costs, etc. The anti-dumping imposed by the EU makes it more difficult to find the products and results in delivery delays and cost increase (as the minimum anti-dumping duty on China is still 39.6%). To address this issue, Italian fastener distributors began to look for new sources, while increasing purchases from Vietnam (+30%), Malaysia (+15%), Taiwan (+15%), Turkey (25%), Croatia (+10%) and local markets (+5%). The anti-circumvention checks have resulted in longer container clearance times (at least 1 week instead of the previous 2-3 days) and increased Customs clearance costs. In addition, REACH regulations on the use of related materials have been updated, and there are new regulations and requirements for packaging and labeling. Data show that material and energy costs for fasteners in Italy increased significantly in 2021 and 2022, but showed some signs of decline in early 2023.

Executive Assistant to President of Shuenn Chang Fa Enterprise Chun-Te Chu: Carbon Reduction Can be Carried Out Without High Costs

Mr. Chu believes that energy saving and carbon reduction do not necessarily require high costs, and can be carried out through new technologies developed by the company itself or according to the characteristics of the product. But first of all, a strategic schedule must be drawn up, and the part required by CBAM can be included first, and the carbon inventory and related certification can be started. At present, the fastener industry often adopts green power, power saving, smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 process, combined with software and hardware to meet the requirements of energy saving and carbon reduction, but this requires capital investment, it is recommended that the industry can also obtain subsidies through MOEA, MIRDC and EPA’s counseling program. A large portion of the carbon emissions from the manufacture of fasteners comes from the production of wire rod and the electricity required to manufacture fasteners. If these upstream factories do not make efforts to reduce carbon emissions, it is very difficult for the fastener industry to reduce carbon emissions, but the industry can still reduce carbon emissions from the perspective of technology, materials, packaging materials and personnel, such as using low-carbon materials, developing products allowing less electricity consumption, using environmentally friendly or lighter weight packaging materials, etc. In particular, Chu mentioned that “aluminum” is a very suitable material for energy saving and carbon reduction because it is only about 1/3 the weight of low carbon steel in the same volume, which can significantly reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions during transportation. He also mentioned that by developing screws that consume less electricity when locking, considerable power consumption can be saved when screws are used in large quantities. Or, in the packaging material part, it can also reduce the use of packaging materials by negotiating with customers. In this way, the fastener industry will be able to maximize profit without excessive investment costs, and at the same time can achieve the purpose of carbon reduction. Chu said that the industry should consider CBAM an opportunity and achieve energy saving and carbon reduction through a more diversified approach.

Greater China Product Marketing Supervisor of Atotech Taiwan Limited Peter Wu: New Solutions Save Energy Consumption and Increase Productivity at the Same Time

Mr. Wu mentioned that during the epidemic, the industry was faced with the volatility of ocean shipping and metal prices, the war between Russia and Ukraine, and soaring prices of daily necessities, so it was particularly important to maintain economic efficiency, reduce costs, and achieve energy saving and carbon reduction goals. In response to these issues and the trend of global manufacturers starting to require downstream surface treatment vendors and supply chains to be net-zero, Mr. Wu suggests that industry players should introduce better solutions in terms of process and equipment to save energy and increase productivity. Atotech has also recently developed four new solutions for surface treatment processes (including Uniprep®, a long-lasting low-temperature degreaser that reduces the use of heaters; Zintek® ONE HP, which reduces the coating process; Zintek® TOP XT; an auxiliary device that reduces the direct contact between the electroplating solution and the anode to reduce by-products; a recycling system for plating solution; and a trivalent chromium passivation solution recycling system) in order to assist the industry in achieving the goal of energy saving and carbon reduction quickly. Wu also said that Atotech will continue to research and develop newer processes and related auxiliary equipment to provide customers with options to use.

Interview with the Exhibitors

Pro Power

Optimistic about the Challenges from Foreign Wire Rods and Carbon Tax

Pro Power is a world-renowned leading manufacturer of construction and do-it-yourself screws offering lower price, fast delivery and exceptional quality. They also provide clients with OEM service of many ICC and ETA certified products. They mainly supply all kinds of wood screws under 10mm in size and 150mm in length, with a monthly production capacity of about 4,000 tons. President Chris Chen told Fastener World in an onsite interview that he wanted to promote his drywall tapping screws and market his brand by exhibiting in this show. When asked about his expectations for the show and overseas buyers, he said Taiwan is one of the world’s critical hubs for fastener manufacturing. Overseas buyers coming to this show can find many Taiwanese fastener manufacturers in one place; therefore, Taiwan takes an important position in the hearts of these overseas buyers.

In addition, China's mission to the World Trade Organization has raised concern over Taiwan’s ban on the import of China-made wire rods and over 2,000 other products, a move that may make it possible for Chinese wire rods to enter the Taiwanese market next year. To that, Chris reacts with optimism. He thinks Taiwan has a small domestic market and relies mostly on export. If it comes down to impacting the survival of Taiwan fastener industry, it may bode ill for the upstream industries and the government. With the impending possibility of China’s wire rods knocking on the door of Taiwan market next year, he believes that Taiwan should make good use of the material resources from China and turn them into cost-competitive factors in favor of Taiwanese manufacturers.

Lastly, regarding the trial run of EU carbon tax coming up this October, Chris pointed out that there hasn't been a clear, transparent and uniform standard for EU’s carbon tax regulations, which makes it more difficult for Taiwan manufacturers to comply and causes inconsistent competitiveness across companies. If the EU publicizes the standard in detail, officially implements the carbon tax and strictly examines the proof of carbon reduction submitted by manufacturers, the cost for each manufacturer will be the same and will make for fair competition. Therefore, Taiwanese fastener companies are eager for the announcement of a unified standard. Pro Power's products are highly recognized by customers in the US and Europe. In light of the increasing demand for construction and do-it-yourself fasteners in the U.S., they will continue to expand sales in the U.S. in the future to provide customers with higher quality and more affordable products.

Linkwell Industry Stable Supply of Fasteners to the World from Multinational Factories

As one of the earliest fastener traders in Taiwan, Linkwell Industry, known as a one-stop fastener hub, has expanded into fastener manufacturing with factories in Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, China and Taiwan, supplying a variety of fasteners to the global machinery, construction and automotive industries.

When asked about the current market situation, President Kosky Yen mentioned that the inventory level of companies in different countries is too high these two years, and therefore, the demand is low. In addition, there is intense price competition. Despite China being subject to a 25% tariff imposed by the U.S., the price of carbon steel and stainless steel originated from China is still much lower than the said steel originated from Taiwan, and therefore, many European buyers are now turning to China to buy stainless steel small screws. He said the recovery of the whole economy will probably set in from the fourth quarter this year.

During the exhibition, Linkwell Industry’s booth was livened up with a large number of visitors. President Yen said that his company has a reputation over 46 years, and all kinds of screws are supplied or made in house, and favored by his customers.

Interview with the Exhibitors

Hung-Yin Enterprise

Straightening Machine Leader Holds the Lion’s Share of the Market

Hung-Yin is a well-known and highly reputable straightening machine manufacturer, with 90% of their machines exported worldwide. Domestically, they are known for sales to many Taiwanese mainstream fastener companies. Hung-Yin straightening machines own a unique technology that is unmatched by other manufacturers in the world. These machines can straighten 50 screws per minute and up to 20,000 screws every 8 hours. The biggest feature is that the straightening process does not damage threads at all. General Manager Chang of Hung-Yin said he met an overseas customer who at start did not believe there is no harming threads in the straightening process. This customer went to his factory and was able to see in person, and became a loyal customer after purchasing the first machine. There were other customers who purchased a total of 9 straightening machines before this show. General Manager Chang said some customers from India, Poland, and Turkey indicated that they found Hung-Yin straightening machine in Fastener World’s reports and on Fastener World search platform. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to Fastener World for contributing to the fastener industry.

Taiho Tool Mfg. Co., Ltd. (OSG Corporation)

Japan-Quality Thread/Bolt/Punch Processing Tool Expert

The parent company of Taiho Tool, namely OSG Corporation, is a worldrenowned manufacturer of thread processing tools, bolt processing tools, and punch processing tools located in Japan. General Manager Matsuo Naohiko said the Taiwan branch Taiho Tool, established in 1969, is located in Gangshan District of Kaohsiung City with a history of 59 years as well as many regular customers in Taiwan. Their exhibiting is to maintain relationships with existing customers and explore new customers.

The general manager said that the dies and punches used in the production of fasteners are very rigid. His company has introduced end mills for these dies and punches, which are in mass production in Japan. At present, there are customers from India and other countries who purchase products through the Taiwan branch and the future market demand is worth anticipating. He added that previously the pandemic blocked face-to-face interaction, but now as the pandemic has come to a close, he is glad to meet customers in this show and looks forward to more opportunities to exchange information with them in the future.

KlimasFirst-time Exhibitor to This Show as A Rising Star in Wood Screws

Klimas is a well-known Polish manufacturer of injection molding technology, insulating plugs, heavy-duty anchor bolts and wood screws such as screws for flat roofs. They offer a one-stop manufacturing process including heading, threading, zinc flake coating, packaging, and more. For the fastener market in Taiwan, they focus on providing long thin wood screws. Their purpose of exhibiting is to find customers outside Europe, including distribution partners from Taiwan, the United States, New Zealand, Japan and other parts of the world. Director Pawel Klimas said they are very conscious of eco-friendly manufacturing process and have already adopted a new coating, namely the more environmentally friendly zinc flake coating. They have started to provide products made with this coating in response to customer requests. In the future, they will be able to sell the product on a larger scale after passing the certification for this coating.

“We are confident in our own quality, price, production capacity and competitiveness. We will be able to manage even if our customers place orders for as many as 50 containers. That’s why we are exhibiting here for the first time,” Pawel stressed. He added that Klimas will be a good source for traders from all over the world in the face of the future EU carbon tax. They had customers from Taiwan, India, Australia and Hong Kong visiting their booth, and they were very satisfied with the number of orders received. Pawel said he plans to return to the show next time.

The Combination of Industry and Fashion

TFTA Gives 2023 Taiwan Fastener Fashion Show

On May 2nd, the day before Taiwan International Fastener Show 2023, Taiwan Fastener Trading Association (TFTA) partnered with the Department of Fashion Styling and Design Communication of Shih Chen University Kaohsiung Campus to organize an event and dinner gala at InterContinental Kaohsiung called "2023 Taiwan Fastener Fashion Show". This was TFTA’s first time trying to combine the fashion field with the traditional framework, and it was also the most refreshing event ever held by the fastener industry in Taiwan. Many important guests from the fastener industry, including European Fastener Distributor Association (EFDA) President Andreas Bertaggia, several former TFTA chairmen & consultants, and representatives from heavyweight companies in the industry were invited to the show.

To complete this fashion show challenge, several members of TFTA (including Yung King Industries, Spec Products, Gwo Lian Machinery Industry, Chun Kuan, Keep Fastener, Rexlen Corporation. Steel Stone, Co-Wealth Enterprise, Locksure, and Screwtech Industry) also took part in presenting their design artworks onstage. The whole fashion show incorporated many creative elements and showed the creativity and vitality of the fastener industry in Taiwan through the combination of different colors and fabric cutting and stacking. Even at the end of the show, TFTA Chairman Josh Chen led a number of members' general managers and chairmen to make an appearance as the show models, which also added a lot of fun to the event.

TFTA Chairman Josh Chen said in his opening speech, "The fashion show this time is not only a presentation of Taiwan's creativity, but also a brand new attempt to combine industrial accessories with fashion. With the help of the co-organizer, Department of Fashion Styling and Design Communication of Shih Chen University Kaohsiung Campus, all the students and faculty of the show have been able to give more interpretation and imagination to the fasteners. Taiwan is the 3rd largest fastener exporter in the world. We welcome you to visit Taiwan during Taiwan Int'l Fastener Show postponed for 4 years and exchange with many members of TFTA, and wish our overseas guests a fruitful experience.”

Article by Gang Hao Chang, Vice Editor-in-Chief of

Fastener Fair USA

Fastener World Magazines Receive Unanimous Recognition from Local Buyers

Fastener Fair USA was held on May 16-17 this year at the Music City Center in Nashville. This show is a professional exhibition that is gaining more and more attention from fastener manufacturers in North America and is aimed at providing a platform for mutual meeting, cooperation and communication among manufacturers, master distributors, equipment makers, processors, packagers and end users in the supply chain.

This year, the show attracted 233 local and foreign exhibitors from the U.S. and abroad to showcase their latest products and trends in industrial fasteners, construction fasteners, assembly and installation systems, fastener production technology, distribution/storage/manufacturing equipment, etc. during the 2-day event. Participants also included 31 exhibitors from Taiwan and 19 exhibitors from India. Exhibitors mainly came from advanced fastener manufacturing, fastener distribution, aerospace, agriculture, automotive and construction fields.

Fastener World Inc. was also present at the show to distribute free publications to explore more possibilities of industrial cooperation for manufacturers/advertisers. According to Fastener World’s staff onsite, Taiwan Pavilion was the largest overseas pavilion at the show, and more than 30 exhibitors showcased their latest products and services to attract the attention of visiting buyers, hoping to take advantage of the slow recovery of market demand to seize the perfect opportunity to gain access to the supply chain of the fastener industry in the United States. The various publications

and online sourcing platform of Fastener World were also highly appreciated by many local buyers in the U.S. at the event. Show visitors this year didn't miss out the opportunities to meet face-to-face with fastener manufacturers, distributors and suppliers, discover the latest product technologies, attend educational seminars presented by industry experts, interact with competitive peers and potential customers, and observe trends and emerging markets in the fastener industry, either. Visitors from within the United States came primarily from Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Tennessee. Another highlight of this year's show was the Fastening 101 Conference held by Fastener Training Institute on 05/15, the day before the show, which covered topics such as manufacturing processes, consensus standards, quality control, product and design fundamentals. In addition, the show's opening night party was held at the Country Music Hall of Fame on 05/16 with a live performance by a famous local Nashville singer and songwriter Tommy O'Keeffe. The organizers also announced immediately after the show that the next edition will be held at the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland on May 22-23, 2024.

Subcon Thailand 2023

A Quick Glimpse of the Latest Industry Trends

SUBCON THAILAND, Thailand's largest exhibition for industrial subcontracting and business matching, took place at BITEC (Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre). The show was also co-located with INTERMACH & MTA Asia, an exhibition for the latest technology and modern machinery for manufacturing and related industries, attracting many business decision makers and high quality buyers from ASEAN countries.

The show was an excellent opportunity for industry players to showcase their latest industrial technologies, products and peripheral services, and for buyers and sellers to quickly communicate with each other. Fastener World Inc. also grasped such a good opportunity to exhibit on-site in order to develop potential business opportunities in Thailand and its neighboring countries for customers. Our staff also distributed our free publications to visiting buyers, hoping to build a bridge for industrial collaboration.

This year's exhibitors mainly came from the fields of metal/plastic automotive parts, electric/electronic parts, mold design, fasteners, automation, software, surface treatment, industrial supply and services, aerospace parts, medical parts, and mechanical parts. Visitors were mainly corporate owners and executives, engineers and technicians, procurement and production personnel, as well as personnel from the fields of automotive parts, electronics, metal machinery, air conditioning and refrigeration, industrial supply, aerospace and medical equipment.

According to Fastener World’s staff on site, the number of exhibitors this year reached 210. The organizer also invited a number of industry leaders to conduct several industry seminars during the event. In addition, electric vehicles, 5G technology, digital electronics, automation, medical and infrastructure were the most popular industry trends in the show, so the 4-day show attracted many professionals from both domestic and international industries, hoping to get a head start through face-to-face communication and consultation on the global market, which is gradually recovering after the epidemic.

IFS China

One-stop Purchase from the Whole Chinese Fastener Supply Chain

International Fastener Show China is organized by China General Machine Components Industry Association as well as China Fastener Industry Association (CFIA) and has earned authority and credibility across local fastener industry. This year the show was successfully held from May 22 to 24. The exhibition area covered 42,000 square meters, with nearly 800 exhibitors, using about 2,000 booths, attracting buyers from the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Brazil, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Russia, India, Iran, Turkey and other countries to visit the show.

The export value of fasteners from China surpassed the 10 billion mark last year, growing to 11.1 billion USD. This show is a great opportunity for exhibitors to seek orders from overseas buyers and is the main channel for visitors from all over the world to purchase fasteners with cost advantages. Fastener World’s exhibitor seized the opportunity to provide visitors with fastener intelligence and recommended suitable suppliers to push for China's integration with the international community and the development of the fastener industry.

The show covered raw materials, specialized equipment, dies and consumables, design technology, testing and experimentation, e-commerce platform, industry services, standard fasteners, special fasteners and stamping parts for visitors from construction, electronics, automotive, aerospace and other industries. The national wire and fastener industry chain summit was held on site, as well as seminars on advanced technology, smart manufacturing and digitalization. International Fastener Show China connects the whole industry chain in China and has developed into an industry benchmark for the fastener industry in the big city of Shanghai.

Fastener Fair India 2023

South Asian Manufacturing Heartland Blooms with Fastener Business Opportunities

June 1 to 3 unveiled the curtain of Fastener Fair India which showcased industrial fasteners, mounting systems, warehousing and logistics services, fastener manufacturing technology and construction fasteners. Market research firms predict that India's industrial fastener market scale is expected to reach a sizeable INR 460 billion by 2023, supported in large part by local automotive and construction demand.

The automotive industry is the largest consumer of fasteners in India, and in 2022 Indian automotive industry was one of the world's highlights, with domestic passenger car sales up by a whopping 23% to 3,792,356 vehicles, in stark contrast to the sluggish European auto market. In the context of this year's slow market recovery, the demand for automobiles and automotive fasteners in India is expected to rise again, thus making Fastener Fair India even more anticipated.

Fastener World caught this uptrend in South Asia and we took the opportunity to hand out publications at the show and introduce fastener suppliers to Indian visitors. These visitors mainly came from Mumbai and New Delhi, with others from Qatar and other countries. Most of them were looking for manufacturers, traders and wholesalers who supply versatile screws. The high number of visitors to Fastener World's booth exceeded our expectation, reflecting the high demand for fasteners in India. Fastener business opportunities are blooming there.

The next Fastener Fair India will be given on July 26-28, 2024 at

Indian News

Sundram Fasteners Announces INR 1,000 Crore Capex Plan for Wind Energy and EV Markets

Sundram Fasteners, a leading auto parts maker, has planned a three-year INR 1,000 crore capital expenditure (capex) program. The investment will help the company satisfy increased wind energy and electric vehicle (EV) demand. After three years of modest expansion (FY20–FY22), the company resumed its capex cycle in FY23, investing roughly INR 300 crore so far and the remaining INR 700 crore over the following two years.

OEM orders for EV parts from the company’s EV business have increased. The company won a six-year contract worth US$ 250 million (INR 2,050 crore) from a major international OEM, with peak revenue of US$ 52 million (INR 426 crore) expected for FY26. The US$ 375 million EV car order book will get INR 300 crore from the anticipated INR 1,000 crore investment package.

Sundram Fasteners wants its non-auto sector, which comprises the wind energy industry, aftermarket, tractor business, and industrial divisions, to account for 50 percent of revenues over the medium to long term to overcome business cyclicality. In FY23, the aftermarket business earned INR 600 crore, with industrial accounting for half. The company is also addressing energy pricing and variable costs. To reduce costs, it intends to use green energy sources and employ captive power suppliers.

Sundram Fasteners MD Optimistic About India’s Potential in EV Sector and Inspires More Women in Leadership Roles

Arathi Krishna, Managing Director, Sundram Fasteners, addresses women’s rising labor involvement and the obstacles they confront in balancing work and home. She expanded the company’s female employment from 1 percent to 10 percent and hopes to reach 20 percent soon. To succeed at work, women need home support, including understanding spouses and workplace creches. She applauds the Indian Government’s efforts to empower women leaders, who inspire others in business.

Krishna believes that societal and domestic factors are the true working challenges for women. To manage their personal and professional lives, women need social assistance, including shared obligations and support structures. She explains Sundram Fasteners’ export market, which amounts to 35 percent to 40 percent of their revenue, and acknowledges the competitive US and European markets, which require high quality and innovative technology.

Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd Highlights Need for Automation in Steel Industry

Recently, Atul Bhatt, Chairman and Managing Director, Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd (RINL), stressed that automation and robotics have huge growth potential. Bhatt said at the virtual launch of RINL’s ‘Open Challenge Program (OCP) 2.0’, that equipment developed by startups will save energy and improve safety, resulting in a speedy return on investment for RINL. He noted that the Government’s focus on infrastructure development has made India’s steel industry the world’s second-largest and fastest-growing.

The OCP 2.0 program, part of the Kalpataru-CoE (Centre of Entrepreneurship) initiatives, aims to select startups specializing in Industry 4.0 technologies. The CoE on Industry 4.0, a joint effort by Software Technology Park of India (STPI), Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY), RINL, and the Government of Andhra Pradesh, intends to make India self-sufficient in Industry 4.0 technology.

The CoE will feature an Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) lab, an Industrial Automation Lab with Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (AI & ML), an Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality (AR & VR) lab, another Industrial Automation Lab with Robotics and Drones, and a third Industrial Automation Lab with Robotics and 3D printing. The CoE will incubate 50 physical and 125 virtual startups over five years. RINL, HPCL, NTPC, BARC, HSY, and BHEL will be helped by startups and industry mentors.

Sterling Tools Reports

12

Percent Increase in Standalone Net Sales Y-O-Y for March 2023

Sterling Tools Ltd, a manufacturer of high-tensile (HT) cold forged fasteners, has announced its March 2023 standalone quarterly financial results. The company generated net sales of INR 155.10 crore, representing a 12 percent increase over the same period in 2022, when net sales were INR 138.48 crore. Despite the growth in net sales, the company had a fall in quarterly net profit, which stood at INR 5.26 crore, a 30.84 percent decrease from INR 7.61 crore in March 2022. However, the company’s Earnings

Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) increased 13.69 percent year on year, reaching INR 21.09 crore in March 2023, from INR 18.55 crore in March 2022. The company’s earnings per share (EPS) fell to INR 1.46 in March 2023 from INR 2.11 in March 2022. With variations in financial performance, Sterling Tools’ share price has increased dramatically. The company’s shares finished at INR 423.30 on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) on May 8, 2023, generating remarkable returns of 69.35 percent over the previous six months and an impressive 214.96 percent over the last 12 months.

Merger of BTI and Berner Construction

From June 2023, BTI and the Berner Germany Construction Division will become the new brand BTI by Berner - and at the same time one of the largest B2B trading companies in the construction industry on the German market.

In the future, around 1,000 employees will provide building trade customers with fastening materials, tools, chemicals, work clothing and many other products and services. In the field of individual system solutions for roof and window installation, as well as for fire protection, BTI by Berner will be one of the market leading specialists.

Until now, BTI and Berner's construction divisions have operated separately on the German market. From June onwards, BTI by Berner customers in Germany will be able to obtain everything from a single source. BTI scores with customers above all in the areas of sanitary heating, air conditioning and electrical installation, roof and window installation, wood connection technology and fire protection. The Construction Division of Berner Germany is strong in construction chemicals, metal construction, tools and DIN parts.

The decision is part of the Berner Group's growth strategy in the construction segment. In order to achieve this goal, the company has invested in the expansion of logistics, in specialist training offers for employees and in the expansion of IT and the product range. "We will also massively accelerate and consistently continue the digital transformation. The team has worked hard together to achieve this, which is why we are now one of the leading medium-sized companies in Europe when it comes to transformation and digitalisation of the business model," emphasises Christian Berner.

Ford Aerospace Acquired by SPIROL

ACL Joins Ideal Tridon Group

Ideal Tridon Group, a leading global manufacturer of clamping, coupling, and support products, has announced the acquisition of Advanced Couplings Limited (ACL) – a manufacturer and supplier of stainless steel clamp type tube connections to the food, pharmaceutical and associated process industries.

Shaun Henry, sales director at Advanced Couplings Limited, explains: “We are very excited for our partnership with Ideal Tridon –with its commitment to service and dedication to quality making it a great fit with ACL’s mission. We know that our customers will benefit from the combination of our companies, allowing us to leverage Ideal’s existing global footprint, product line and engineering capabilities. We are proud of the reputation that ACL has earned over the past 35 years and will be able to continue to strengthen our capabilities to better serve our customers.”

Ideal Tridon serves a diverse set of end global markets by offering a broad portfolio of highly engineered clamp, coupling and strut support systems. This is the most recent acquisition for Ideal Tridon, uniquely positioning the combined companies to serve European customers with an unmatched industrial product portfolio.

“We are thrilled to have ACL join our Ideal Tridon family,” said Rick Stepien, CEO of Ideal Tridon. “Bringing our companies together will allow us to expand into new geographies and extend our portfolio offerings into new and existing markets.”

SPIROL has announced that Ford Aerospace Ltd – based in South Shields, UK, and specialised in the manufacture of high precision metal components and sub-assemblies for the aerospace, industrial and high-technology sectors – will be joining the SPIROL group of companies.

With a legacy spanning 75 years as an expert in fastening, joining and assembly, SPIROL’s well established global footprint will take the UK-based Ford Aerospace’s products to a wider international market. In addition, one of SPIROL’s core principles is

to continuously reinvest back into the business to ensure long-term, enhanced success and better serve its customers. This principle is also firmly held by Ford Aerospace and therefore the synergies in markets, products, history, and approach to providing value to its customers, tie SPIROL and Ford closely together.

Ford Aerospace’s technical skills in ‘space compensating’ management – the production of laminated and solid shims that ensure fast, precision tolerance compensation used on products such as fuselages, gearboxes and movable components – was a key offering that attracted SPIROL. These solid and laminated shims enable clients to reduce stock of individual shims and offer the option of ‘sizing’ a particular shim by adjusting the shim pack to the desired thickness on assembly. These products simplify the assembly process while simultaneously reducing the overall cost of the assembly.

Eurobond Adhesives Acquired by Techsil

Adhesives specialist, Techsil, a company within the Diploma Group, has acquired the trade and assets of Eurobond Adhesives. Techsil has been aware of Eurobond for some time and says the two companies are a great strategic and cultural fit, sharing similar values, business models and end user markets.

Formed in 1984, Eurobond Adhesives has been a very successful business under the leadership of Simon Dearing, operating with an onus on outstanding customer service and excellent products. However, Simon felt it the right time to sell the business and find the right trusted partner to help support long-term growth with the backing of a larger resourced adhesives’ group.

With a technical sales interface team established to smooth the acquisition, this augments Techsil’s broad technical adhesive offering with the onus on adhesive, potting and thermal management solutions for the manufacturing sector and introduces the company to some attractive new customers and market segments, such as sign, glass and sheet metal bonding, amongst others.

Since 2021, Techsil, which was founded in 1989 with a focus on distribution of technical and high performance silicones, has been part of Diploma’s ‘controls’ business unit, which distributes into the speciality adhesives, wire and cables, interconnect products, and specialty fasteners segments. The company has grown to encompass many more specialist adhesive technologies without losing its core reputation for excellent customer service. The company follows a problem solving engineering and design led approach to finding the right adhesive and sealant solution for its customers.

Continued Sales Growth for Bossard

Bossard Group continued its growth path in the first quarter of 2023, in spite of last year’s high comparative base. Sales grew by 4.4% to CHF 304.5 million (prior year: CHF 291.6 million), equivalent to an increase of 7.7% in local currency. The Group’s organic growth corresponded to 5.8% in local currency.

In Europe, in an environment of weakening economic growth, Bossard posted a sales increase of 0.6% to CHF 170.9 million, an increase of 4% in local currency. The focus on the growth industries was supportive to further growth. Sales in America increased by 24.7% to CHF 85.3 million. Adjusted for acquisitions, growth in local currency amounted to 16.7%. The favourable business performance was driven by the ongoing diversification of the customer base. Bossard also succeeded in establishing new customer relationships in the electromobility sector, with noteworthy growth rates. Bossard Ontario Inc in Canada (formerly PENN Engineered Fasteners Corporation), consolidated since 1st December 2022, contributed to the positive sales performance. Sales in Asia declined by 9.4% to CHF 48.3 million, a drop of 3.2% in local currency. The major contributing factors included the impact of lifting of Covid-19 restrictions in China, the high comparative base from 2022, and the strong Swiss franc.

Notwithstanding the further normalisation of supply chains and improved product availability, global wage and cost inflation as well as the skilled labour shortage remain central concerns. Bossard thinks these factors are likely to further drive demand for its automated and digital Smart Factory Logistics and Smart Factory Assembly solutions, which can significantly reduce the total cost of ownership in C-parts management and assembly for customers, thereby sustainably and measurably increasing their competitiveness.

As for growth opportunities for the future, Bossard believes the course of inflation, central bank policies, geopolitical tensions, and the uncertainties on the procurement market will continue to persist. As a result, the market environment will remain challenging. Yet even a volatile market environment offers opportunities, especially for product solutions and digital services in the growth industries of electromobility, railway, electronics, and medical technology.

A Strong Q1 with Record Sales for Bulten AB

Bulten AB has reported a strong opening quarter of the year, with net sales at SEK 1.387 billion (€122.4 million), an increase of 34.1% on the same period last year (2022: SEK 1.034 billion). Operating earnings (EBIT) totalled SEK 116 million, equating to an operating margin of 8.4%.

Anders Nyström, president and CEO at Bulten, commented: “We have started the year with excellent financial results, and note that this is the fifth consecutive quarter with sales in excess of SEK 1 billion.”

He continued: “The first quarter of 2023 began with an excellent sales figure of SEK 1.387 billion, which is in line with our growth targets. This is an improvement of 34% on the same period in the previous year, and slightly better than last quarter, which was itself a record quarter for sales. Furthermore, operating margin of 8.4% indicates that we are on track to deliver on the financial targets we have set for 2024. Our resolute efforts to streamline the operation, while carefully balancing cost consciousness against the need for necessary investments, have certainly produced results. In addition, our focus on adjusting prices to customers in line with rising costs and inflation has had a positive impact on the results.”

“For several quarters now, I have been talking about the importance of reducing our stock levels, mainly so that we can free up capital for new investments. During the first few months of the year, we have reduced stock levels by SEK 47 million, which has had a positive effect on cash flow. Our focus on stock levels has helped us to identify further potential for improvement in our internal material flows, and in our supply chain. We still have some work to do in order to further adjust stock levels, and also to further improve control and planning of production and material deliveries.”

Expansion at TCB Continues at a Rapid Pace

Tension Control Bolts Ltd (TCB) states it is better placed than ever to meet demand, following significant investment in its production, warehousing and Quality Assurance Laboratory – with every aspect of the business geared up for increased demand from discerning customers globally.

Firstly, TCB’s new warehouse has created additional 9,000 pallet spaces. There has also been major investment in a new purpose built QA laboratory at its UK headquarters in Wrexham, including the recruitment of technical engineering roles and the commissioning of updated test kits to carry out tensile strength tests under

wedge, core hardness, pre-load and carburisation tests, which the company points out not only meets but also exceeds the mandatory European and British standards. As always there is also full traceability with 3.1 certification now having additional detail, providing the related assurance in a transparent and comprehensive manner.

With the investments in its new QA laboratory, TCB is inviting all customers to see its QA laboratory and capabilities first hand. Recent visitors include a project team from Laing O’Rourke who are building ‘The People Stadium’; the new home of Everton football club, with over 30,000 TCB’s being supplied to that stadium alone.

TFC Seals New Acquisition to Strengthen VMI Portfolio

TFC Ltd, an AFC Industries Company, has added to its portfolio of services and products with the acquisition of EAP Seals. This move strengthens TFC’s position as a leading provider of Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) solutions and technical engineering products.

EAP Seals is a leading distributor of rubber sealing products, including O-rings, gaskets and associated technical products. With almost 50 years’ experience in the industry, the business has strong and longstanding relationships both with its suppliers and customers. The business’ specialty is the O-ring, which it supplies in a range of materials including nitrile, genuine DuPont Viton, EPDM, silicone and high value chemically-inert perfluorelastomers. Alongside its product offering, the business has established complementary services including degassing, bespoke vulcanised joint manufacturing, and a bagging and barcoding service.

EAP Seals states it has one of the most varied stockholdings in Europe, and offers an individualised and personal service to its customers across several industries, including the oil and gas, food and beverage, energy and power, aerospace and defence, automotive, pharmaceutical, petrochemical, process engineering and water industries. EAP’s high-quality products are used in sealing applications in difficult environments, such those with high temperatures and those subject to aggressive chemicals.

EAP Seals will continue to be run by its current management team and operate out of its existing premises in Heywood, Greater Manchester, UK.

Returns to Las Vegas for Their 2023 Show

The International Fastener Expo (IFE), the largest North American B2B Expo focused on the Fastener industry, will be hosting their annual event October 9-11, 2023, at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. Attendees and exhibitors from around the world will come together under one roof to build new relationships and connect with peers, discover the latest products and solutions, and learn from experts about trends and newest technologies being used in the industry. IFE 2023 is expected to bring 650+ exhibitors to the Expo Floor representing a strong global fastener footprint; the 2022 show had exhibitors from 37 different countries.

This year’s show will feature special events like the always popular golf tournament at the Bali Hai Golf Club, the fun-filled Welcome Reception at Mandalay Bay’s Daylight Pool, and the honorary tradition of inducting the Hall of Fame award winners and Young Fastener Professional of the Year. IFE 2023 will once again be partnering with Fastener Training Institute to provide a full-day class “Fastener Fundamentals – The Nuts and Bolts for Fastener Professionals,” led by FTI instructor, Carmen Vertullo.

An energizing keynote speaker will take to the stage to kick off the show presenting a highly relevant speech. Additional educational opportunities will take place throughout October 10 and 11 on the Expo Hall Session Stage, offering attendees strategic, forward-thinking knowledge on topics that included risk management, technology and digitalization, succession planning, fastener finishings, and more. A new educational format will be introduced at IFE 2023, Fireside Chats. These microlearning sessions will provide the audience with engaging and interactive interview-style discussions.

IFE 2023 will also provide attendees and exhibitors with the official mobile event app and “smart” matchmaking technology, IFE Match.

Registration is set to open on Thursday, June 1. Visit https://fastenershows.com/you-cant-miss-ife-2023-fti/ for updates and complete details.

Entrance & Exit

649

AEH FASTEN INDUSTRIES CO., LTD. sales@aeh.com.tw www.aeh.com.tw

Rivets, Screws, Barrel Nuts And Other Cold Forming Items Made From Steel, Stainless Steel , Brass , Copper And Aluminum.

779

AIMREACH ENTERPRISES CO., LTD. sales@aimreachfasteners.com www.aimreachfasteners.com

All Kind Of Screws Related Items. Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel, Bi-Metal Screws. Special Parts, According To Drawing Fasteners, Automotive Parts.

1676

AL-PRO METALS CO., LTD. alpro.metals@msa.hinet.net www.alpro-metals.com

Bolt. Stainless Steel Bolt. Open Die Fastener. Weld Bolt. Hex Bolt.

711

A-PLUS SCREWS INC. annesheng@a-plusscrewsinc.com.tw www.a-plusscrewsinc.com.tw

Decking Screws, Sems Screws, Self Drilling Screws, Collated Screws, Custom Screws, Which Are Made Of 302, 304, 305, 316, Xm7, 410.

663

A-STAINLESS INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD.

astainless@hibox.hinet.net www.a-stainless.com.tw

Window Screws In 410ss /18-8ss Materials , Patented Design For Hard Wood Application

715

BI-MIRTH CORP. sales@bimirth.com.tw www.bi-mirth.com

765

B -M RTH Corporation

Our Company Specializes In Self-Drilling, Self-Tapping, Wood Construction, And Concrete Screws From Diameters #8 To 1/2 Inch And Up To 20 Inches In Length. We Also Have Our Own ICC Certification.

868

BROADEN WORLDWIDE CO., LTD. info@broadenal.com.tw bdnfasteners.com

BDN Fasteners® offer a full range of self-drilling and self-tapping screws that drill, tap threads, and fasten in one swift process.

615

BUDSTECH CO., LTD. sales@budstech.com www.budstech.com

Steel Stainless Screws, Machining Parts, Sheet Metal Stamping Parts, Sub Assembly 1078

BULLS TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. jordan23@bullstech.com.tw www.bullstech.com.tw

Cold Forming

Fasteners Per Prints, Including T-Sleeve Nuts, Weld Nuts, Weld Bolts, T-Bolts, Shoulder Bolts, Tapping Screws And Studs

669

CHAEN WEI CORPORATION cwc@chaenwei.com.tw www.chaenwei.com.tw

Patented, Customized Construction/Industrial Screw & Standard Screw Production. Manual & Semi-Auto Packaging Lines In House To Support Diversified Small Packaging Needs.

CHANNG CHIN INDUSTRY CORP. service@channg-chin.com www.channg-chin.com.tw

Screws, Bolts, Welding Parts, Double End Parts Applied At Automotive, Machine, Tapping And Taptite Used. Sized M3 To M12 And Length Up To 150mm. Product Certified By IATF16949 And QMS Has ISO17025 Authentication.

769

CHIA YI FASTENER CO., LTD. gaescrew@ms19.hinet.net www.chiayifastener.com.tw

Screws, Nuts, Bolt....All The Fastening Parts

879

CHIAN YUNG CORPORATION sales@chianyungco.com.tw www.chianyungco.com.tw

SEMS Screws (Screws Assembled With Washers)

1774

CHIAO CHANG PNEUMATIC TOOL CORP. info@ccp-tw.com.tw www.ccptool.com

40 Years Of Experience And Passed The ISO 9001-2015 Quality System Certification In June 1995 , All Products 100% Taiwan Design, Manufacturing, R&D And Production.

2141

CHIEN TSAI MACHINERY ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. Jinna@jiancai.com.tw www.jiancai.com.tw

Automatic Thread Rolling Machine, Screw Heading Machine, Head Slotting Machine.

655

GOFAST CO., LTD. fastener@gofast.com.tw www.gofast.com.tw

External/Internal/Open Die Threading Parts, Available With Extra Machined, Pressed And Other Processes; Stamping; CNC; Wire Form Assembled Parts.

877

GREAT PEAK HARDWARE ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. info@great-peak.com www.great-peak.com

Self-Tapping/Self-Drilling Screw, Machine Screw, Chipboard Screw, Wood Screw, Coarse Thread Screw, Concrete Screw, Hex Socket Cap Screw, Security Screw, SEMS, CNC/Special Screw.

713

HEADER PLAN CO. INC. master@headerplan.com.tw www.headerplan.com.tw

Stainless Steel Decking Screws, Stainless Steel Self-Drilling Screws, Stainless Steel SelfTapping Screws, Stainless Steel Machine Screws, Stainless Steel Special Screws Per Customer's Sample Or Drawing.

776

HOME SOON ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. home.soon@msa.hinet.net www.homesoon.com.tw

Screwdriver Bit, Nut Setter, Hex Key, Impact Socket, Socket Bit, Ratchet, Bit Holder

1675

HOMN REEN ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. homnreen@mail.homnreen.com.tw www.homnreen.com

Our Taiwan And Vietnam Plants Offer Size #2 -3/8" (M2-M8) Fasteners Up To 15" (380mm) In Length. Catrgories Include Self-Drilling, Self-Tapping, Chipboard, Drywall, Thread Rolling (Trilobular), Concrete, Machine, Sems/ Combi In Both Inch And Metric Screws.

677

HU PAO INDUSTRIES CO., LTD. hupaobill@hupao.com.tw www.hupao.com.tw

Range: Nuts, Rollers

Dimensions: M5~M20 (#8 ~ 7/8). Materials: Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel, Copper. Standards: DIN, JIS, ISO, ANSI/ASME, IFI, SAE, ASTM, UNI, And Customized Items As Per Customer’s Request.

750

INNTECH INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD. inntech.tw@msa.hinet.net www.inntech.com.tw

1. OEM Quality Fasteners 2. Precision Turning Parts 3. Metal Stamping 4. Patent Fasteners ( Delta PT / TAPTITE / MAT thread...)

4. Open die parts 5. Plastic Injection Molding 6. Wire form 7. Powder Metal

714

J. T. FASTENERS SUPPLY CO., LTD. jimmy@jtfasteners.com.tw www.jtfasteners.com.tw

Our Company Is Specialized In Supplying Various Fasteners. Rivet Nuts/Stamping Parts/Customized Parts Are Our Main Products. And We Also Supply Different Materials For These Products To Satisfy Our Customers' Requirement.

866

JACKWAY ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. johnnycheng@jackway.com.tw www.jackway.com.tw

Fastening Tools Such As Bits, Screwdrivers, Sockets, Impact Sockets And Other Hand Tools And Power Tools ...

742

J.C. GRAND CORPORATION sales@jcgrand.com www.jcgrand.com

Products: Timber, Deck & Drywall, Tapping, Drilling, Bolts, SEMS. Coating: ZNK+ Duplex Coating System.

1677

JENG YUH CO., LTD.

jeng.yuh@msa.hinet.net

www.plastic-packagingbox.com

Plastic Container

814

JI LI DENG FASTENERS CO., LTD. sales@jldfasteners.com.tw www.jldfasteners.com.tw

Specialized In Manufacturing Fasteners For Auto Parts, Appliances, Electronics And Others. Tapping Screw/ Machine Screw/ Trilobular Thread/ Screw For Plastic/ Hi-Lo Thread/ Double End Stud/ Ball Stud/ Weld Stud/ Special & Customized Parts.

724

KU FU FASTENERS CO., LTD. k4662.com@msa.hinet.net www.kffcom.com

Major Products/Service:

1. Customized Special Parts 2. Shafts / Flange Bolts 3. Welding Bolts / Nuts 4. SEMS / Braking System Parts 5. Rivets / Pins

637

KWANTEX RESEARCH INC. kwantex@ms18.hinet.net www.kwantex.com.tw

KTX-Archemides' Secret Screw, KTX-Hidden Decking Screw System, KTX-Torpedo Plastic Decking Screw And More Innovative Screws

629

L&W FASTENERS COMPANY king-lin@lwfasteners.com.tw www.lwfasteners.com.tw

Professional Fasteners Supplier Of Building, Mechanical Engineering, Heavy Industry, Furniture Fastening.

HU PAO

JCGC

864

LINK UPON ADVANCED MATERIAL CORPORATION maggie.lee@linkupon.com www.linkupon.com

Advanced Engineering Plastic Fasteners, Screws, Bolts, Nuts, Washers, And Made-To-Print Parts.

974

LOYAL & BIRCH CO., LTD. sales@loyalbirch.com www.loyalbirch.com

Our products are used in construction, including, drywall screws, chipboard screws, selfdrilling screws, tapping screws and concrete screws.

773

LUNA'S LIGHT INTERNATIONAL SOURCING CORPORATION info@visdomsupply.com visdomsupply.com/index.html

CNC Turning Parts, CNC Milling Parts, Metal Parts, OEM Parts.

736

MAO CHUAN INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. maochuan@maochuan.com.tw www.maochuan.com.tw

Stamping Part: Spring Nuts & Clips - U-Nuts, J-Nuts, Trim Clip; Nut- Welding Nut, Hex Nut, Grille Nut & Panel Nut, Cage Nut; Bushing; Washer; Deep Drawn Part; Hose Clamp; Snap On Button; Bracket; Assemble Parts

1076

METAL FASTENERS CO., LTD. sales@fasteners.com.tw www.fasteners.com.tw

Self-Clinching Fasteners

For Sheet Metal Enclosures And Thread Inserts For Plastic Injection Parts.

718

MOLS CORPORATION

sabrina@molscorp.com.tw www.molscorp.com.tw

Self Tapping Screw, Roofing Screw, Self Drilling Screw, RV Screw, Triangular Thread Screw, Gutter Screw, Home Appliance Screw

878

OFCO INDUSTRIAL CORP. ofco@ofco.com.tw www.ofco.com.tw

ASME B18.2.1 Hex Head Cap Screws & Metric Fasteners In Grade 5, Grade 8 Or Class 8.8, 10.9 For Metric Fasteners.

748

PRO-PATH INDUSTRIAL COMPANY, LTD. arky-t-l-kuo@propathindustrial.com.tw www.propathindustrial.com.tw

★ Bi-Metal Screws

★ Window Srcews

★ Patent Screws ★ Self Drilling Screws ★ Self Tapping Screws ★ Tiny Screws ★ Terrace Screws

★ Roofing Screws ★ Sems Screws ★ Security Screws

643

REXLEN CORP. marketing@rexlen.com.tw www.rexlen.com.tw

★ Automotive Parts ★ Screws, Bolts & Nuts, MAThread Parts ★ Washers & Stampings ★ Machined Screws & CNC Parts ★ Plastic Injection & Rubber Parts Custom-Made Specials

766

REXSON FASTENERS INC. sales@rexson.com.tw www.rexson.com.tw

Major Products: Stainless Steel Screws / Automotive Parts / Self-drilling Screws / Concreate Screws / Special Screws / Wood Screws ...Production

Range: Diameter: M1.2~M12 Length : 3~200mm Material: Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel, Brass , Copper

774

SCT FASTENERS CO., LTD. sct.screws@msa.hinet.net www.sct-fasteners.com

Stainless Steel Fasteners

675

SE FA ENTERPRISE CO., LTD sefa.screw@msa.hinet.net www.sefascrew.com.tw

We Have Implemented A Strict And Complete Quality Control System, Which Ensures That Each Product Can Meet The Quality Requirements Of Customers. Our products have attained ISO9001 certification.

754

SEN CHANG INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. sc337@ms6.hinet.net www.senchang.com

Material: 18-8, 305, 316, 410, 410C, 420, 430 Screw Diameter: #00~#5/8 Length: 18/""~12""

Screw As Per IFI, DIN, ISO & Customers' Drawing

976

SHAW GUANG ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. shawguang@yahoo.com.tw www.shawguang.com.tw

Kep Nuts, Conical Washer Nuts, Nylong Conical Washer Nuts, Flange Conical Nuts, Combi Nuts

651

SHEH FUNG SCREWS CO., LTD. shehfung@shehfung.com www.shehfung.com

Self Drilling Screws, Self Tapping Screws, Wood Screws, Deck Screws, Roofing Screws, Drywall

Screws,Stainless Steel Screws, Automotive Screws, Non-Standard Screws. Etc..

740

SHIANG GING METAL ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. sgcarbide@sgcarbide.com.tw www.sgmetal.com.tw

Shiang Ging Has Maintained A Focus And Commitment To Providing Customers With Manufacturing Specialist Carbide Dies For Cold Forming And Cold Heading Industries.

764

SHYANG SHENG PRECISE INDUSTRY CO., LTD. shyang.her@msa.hinet.net www.splasticinjectionmold.com

Plastic Fastener, Plastic Washer, Automotive Plastic Fastener, Plastic Anchor

777

SIN FU SHAN INTERNATIONAL CORP. luis_hwang@sfshan.com.tw www.sfshan.com.tw

Licensed Screw Products Such As TORX, REMINC Thread System For Automobile And Screws Of Other Industry Fields

762

SINTEC CO., LTD. sales@sintecmetal.com www.sintecmetal.com

Decking, Wood, Roof, Drywall Screws, Concrete Bolts, Collated Drywall Screws……Etc.

619

SOON PORT INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD. info@soonport.com www.soonport.com

Soon Port International Co., Ltd. Was Founded In 1962, And Started As A Producer And Processor Of Hardware Wires, Screw Wires, Steel Wires, Etc.

810

SPEC PRODUCTS CORP. sean.chang@spec.com.tw www.spec.com.tw

Bolt For Automotive, Special Screw, Sems, Screw & Sleeve Assembly, Clinch Stud, Double End Stud, Mathread, Rivet, Nut

611

SPECIAL RIVETS CORP. srcrivet@ms12.hinet.net www.srcrivet.com

Blind Rivets, Blind Rivet Nuts, Riveting Tools

975

SUPERIOR QUALITY FASTENER CO., LTD. sqf@sqf.com.tw www.sqf.com.tw

Special Screws, Bolts, Nuts, Self-Drilling Screws, Drywall Screws Turning Parts, Closed Dies Parts

657

TAIWAN FASTENER TRADING ASSOCIATION - TFTA tfta_org@yahoo.com.tw www.tftatw.org

Advertising Literature And Brochures

1074

SPRING LAKE ENTERPRISE CO. LTD. info@springlake.com.tw www.springlake.com.tw

With More Than 40 Years Of Fastening Experiences, Spring Lake Provides A Comprehensive Range Of Standard Fasteners That Meet All Commonly Used Standards On The Market.

627

STANDING INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. stddco@ms13.hinet.net www.stddco.com

Micro, Miniature & Small Fasteners For Automotive, Electric, Computer, Communication, Consumer Electronics, Etc.

767

SUNNY BEAM INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. sb6667@ms14.hinet.net sunnybeam.myweb.hinet.net

Standard And OEM Fastener Products Including Screws, Bolts, Nuts, CNC Parts, Washers, SEMs, Studs, Rivets, Pins, Automotive Parts, Anchors, Rings, Hooks, Clips, Bits, Nails, Stamping Parts And Hand Tools

722

TAIWAN INDUSTRIAL FASTENERS INSTITUTE - TIFI tifi.tw@msa.hinet.net www.fasteners.org.tw

Advertising Literature And Brochures

758

TAIWAN PRECISION FASTENER CO., LTD.

sales@taiwan-precision-fastener.com www.taiwan-precision-fastener.com

Wood Screw, Deck Screw, Self-Drilling Screw, SelfTapping Screw, Patented Wood Screw, Special Screw Point Cutting

972

TAIWAN SHAN YIN INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD. ma_dept@shanyin.com.tw www.shanyin.com.tw

Patented Screws, Construction Screws, Special Screws, Automotive Screws, Patented Coating Screws

社團法人台灣螺絲貿易協會

876

TONE DAR SEEN ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. tdstds.chiao1029@gmail.com tonedarseen.com/en/home/ We Have More Than 30 Years Of Experience In Producing Various Types Of Screws, Specializing In SemiTubular Rivets, Shoulder Rivets And Custom / Special Designed Parts.

726

TZONG JI METALS CO., LTD. tzji@ms15.hinet.net www.Tzji.com.tw

Retaining Rings (External & Internal) / Inverted Retaining Rings / E-Rings / Crescent Rings / Spring Pins / Speed Nuts / Push Nuts / Cage Nuts / U-Nuts / Curve Washers / Toothed Lock Washers / Wave Washers

679

U-WEEN ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. alex@u-ween.com.tw www.u-ween.com.tw

Specializing In Precision Parts Processing. Full Of Experiences In Cold Heading, Automobile Components, Mechanical And Electrical Products, Bike Components, Sports Equipment, Medical Equipment, Hardware Appliances.

756

WA TAI INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD. watai001@w-atai.com www.w-atai.com

We Are ISO9001, IATF 16949 And ISO14001 Accredited.

659

WITEC PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.

nina@witecsp.com

www.witecsp.com/en

Springs, Fasteners, Wire Forming, Stamping, Welding, Assembly

667

WATTSON FASTENER GROUP INC. wattsonbell@gmail.com www.fastener-world.com/en/supplier/ wattson

Drywall Screw / Self Drilling Screw / Chip Board Screw

673

WIN FEATURES INDUSTRY CO., LTD. everwin@winfeatures.com www.winfeatures.com

Screwdriver Bit, Adapter, Bit Holder, Nut Setter, Screwdriver Bit Set

1777

JINN HER ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. sales@jinnher.com.tw www.jinnher.com.tw

Common Products, Such As Hex Bolt, Hex Flange Bolt, TC Bolt, Etc. Products Per Customer's Drawing As Well.

641

YOANG MING INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

ymscrew@ms23.hinet.net

www.yoangming.com.tw

Our Main Products Are Self Drilling Screw, Self Tapping Screw, Machine Screw, Special Screw, Long Length Screw, Chipboard And Drywall Screws, And We Have Customized Services And Production.

1674

YOUR CHOICE FASTENERS & TOOLS CO., LTD.

taitzu.taitzu@msa.hinet.net

www.ycs.com.tw

Self Drilling/Tapping Screw, Farmer Screw/ Roofing Screw, Sandwich Panel Screw, Window Screw, Decking Screw, Drywall Screw, Chipbaord Screw, Concrere Screw, Screws

768

ZI EA FACTORY COMPANY LIMITED sales@zi-ea.com

www.ziea.com.tw

Standard And Customized Screws, Bolts And Cold Heading Parts, Ranges From 1/4” X 5/8” To 1” X 8”.

Only Taiwanese exhibitors exhibiting through Taiwan’s exclusive agent Fastener World are listed.

為了方便統計準確，上述台灣扣件展團名單以 有向本展台灣總代理商匯達公司報名為準。

Special Rivets Corp.

6 Billion Blind Rivets

Annual Production

Meets U.S. and Global Demand

SpecialRivets Corp. (SRC) is one of the top developers and manufacturers of full-line blind rivets, rivet nuts and high quality labor-saving riveting tools. They are also one of the largest rivet manufacturers in Asia. In addition to their China plant, they’ve opened a new plant in Thailand in 2022. They currently produce over 500 million blind rivets and 100,000 riveting tools per month. Over the past 40 years, they have sold to more than 150 countries and accumulated more than 700 customers worldwide.

Ad at page 14

Eyeing Thailand, Targeting 300 Million Local Blind Rivet Monthly Production

SRC sees the worth of Thailand Prime Minister's ambition to develop Thailand as the top manufacturing nation of automobiles in Southeast Asia. Plus, they have many clients who identify Thailand as a key market in Southeast Asia. Therefore, they have opened a new 45,000 square meter plant in Thailand to meet the increased demand for their products in the U.S., Europe, Southeast Asia and around the world. The new plant has 50% of area currently in use and has about 110 auto-forming machines which will be increased to 300. At this stage, they are aiming at a monthly capacity of 100 million pieces of rivets for the Thailand plant, and planning to increase to 300 million pieces of rivets in the future.

Anticipating U.S. Market Recovery and Local Sales Boost

SRC products are mainly sold to the U.S., Europe, New Zealand, Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia, with the U.S. accounting for up to 30% of the total sales. As trade and economic ties between the U.S., Europe and Taiwan have grown in recent years, SRC is looking forward to exporting their products. With a fully automated warehousing and retrieval system, they can ensure orders are fulfilled accurately and quickly. An SRC representative said: “We are rooted in quality and credibility and we deploy globally. Every client is important to us. In the face of market challenges, we will stick to the belief that makes us who we are and continue to create new markets."

Article by Dean Tseng, Fastener World Copyright owned by Fastener World

Contact: Manager Lydia Wang

Email: srcrivet@ms12.hinet.net

Chin Lih Hsing Precision Enterprise Technology Leader in Automotive Parts

Booth No. 874

Withextraordinary craftsmanship in machining, Chin Lih Hsing works closely with international auto parts companies and sells up to 90% of its automotive fasteners to the U.S. and Europe. The company takes pride in its ability to customize products based on customers' specific requirements. Their factory is equipped with 200 automatic lathes, 30 CNC lathes, 12 slotting machines and many secondary processing machines. This comprehensive setup enables them to achieve a substantial monthly production capacity of up to 80 million pieces, ensuring a stable supply with unwavering focus on quality and competitive pricing. They continue to pursue high quality and improve process control by adding process control systems to enhance production management. They also continue to invest in quality control equipment, including 11 optical sorting machines and a new 2.5D projector, hoping to enhance their capability through continuous improvement and progression to be the best support for customers.

Threaded Inserts, CNC Parts, Turning Parts

They will display at IFE a wide range of threaded inserts in various materials and sizes, mainly for molding of plastic injection, heatstake, ultrasonic embedment and other applications. In addition, they provide high precision and high quality CNC parts in various materials customizable to customers' drawings. They also have a variety of turning parts for automotive, motorcycle, electronics, connectors, home appliances and various manufacturing industries. By exhibiting, they hope to expand in the North American market, especially in the automotive parts and manufacturing industries, and seek traders, manufacturer and other partners.

Deploying in the U.S. Auto Parts Market

They are locked on the rising demand for parts driven by EVs. Serving the auto parts supply market for more than 15 years and certified to IATF 16949, they are well experienced in machined nuts and bolts among automotive parts. Chin Lih Hsing values the importance of quality requirement and is the best partner for customers looking to expand business.

Article by Dean Tseng, Fastener World Copyright owned by Fastener World

Contact: Ms. Mandy Wang

Email: clh@clh.com.tw

Ad at page 55

Direct Access to U.S. Wood Screw Market Bi-Mirth to Finish ICC Certification Renewal by Yearend

Bi-Mirth specializes in the development, production and export of structural wood and concrete fasteners, They have made a name for themselves worldwide with patented quick-drill screws, self-drilling screws, self-tapping screws and wood screws. A quarter of their sales is from the U.S., and they are in the process of renewing U.S. ICC certificates (including AC257 and AC233) in response to U.S. customers’ and regulatory requirements. Fastener World was informed by Bi-Mirth that they will finish the renewal by the end of this year, and will provide products and services of the highest quality standards to U.S. customers.

New Product Lineup

In addition to the renewal, they have expanded their product lineup to include fully threaded framing screws, landscaping hex washer head screws, SIP board screws, along with hardwood screws (tackling the toughest type of wood), timber-concrete connector screws (with superior shear resistance), and A2/A4 stainless steel wood screws (tailored for tough environments), which were previously announced in a report by Fastener World. They are going full speed ahead to boost market shares in the U.S., Europe and the world.

Mass Timber Market is on the Rise

Looking ahead, they see a rapidly growing market for mass timber in the US. By exhibiting at IFE, they want to serve existing customers and develop new ones, as well as to find distributors for the mass timber market. Furthermore, with carbon reduction forming a global trend, they are also developing stainless steel solar panel screws, installing solar panels on their own factory roofs, and introducing electrostatic oil filtering machines in their own factories to make a green fastener production line for customers around the world.

Ad at page 31

Article by Dean Tseng, Fastener World Copyright owned by Fastener World

L&W is a professional fastener supplier in Taiwan and China. Our fastening products are used in construction, auto-market, machines and general industries.

L&W Supplying:

L&W provides different kinds of standard fastening products according to DIN, ANSI, ISO, BS, JIS and Nonstandards customized fasteners per drawing and samples. Our available range of diameter is from #2 up to 4", M1.5 up to M100 by cold forging, hot forging, and lathe machining. The part length is from 2mm up to unlimited.

L&W Product Range

Bolts, Nuts, Washers, Screws, Socket Parts, Stamping Parts/ Assembled Parts, Pins, Auto-Parts, OEM parts.

L&W Material Range

• C arbon Steel Range : SAE C1008 ~ C1040

• A lloy Steel Range: SCM 435, SCM 440, SAE 4140, 40 Cr., 42 Cr.Mo.

• Stainless Steel : 302HQ, 304, 305 , 316, 316L, 316M, 410. 430.

• Brass & Silicon Bronze

• Aluminum 6061, 2024

L&W Sourcing :

We work with hundreds of subcontracted makers in Taiwan, China, Korea and Thailand. By combining outsourcing production capacity, L&W not only combines qualified merchandise but also provides the most comprehensive range of products including Bolts, Nuts, Screws, Washers, Stamping parts, Assembled Parts, Pins and Nonmetal parts to customers worldwide.

Contact: Gary Lin

Email: lw.gary@lwfasteners.com.tw

L&W Service :

Ad at page 108

Import and export agency services; providing agency services for domestic and foreign companies, namely, goods and services price quotations, bidding quotations, sales promotion and distributorships in the field of metal hardware.

L&W Documents :

Certificate of Origin, Quality Inspection Report, Material Mill Sheet and PPAP #1, #2, #3 and IMDS data offer available.

The mission of L&W is to accomplish one-stop-shopping service for saving import cost and provide good quality products for end users to work more efficiently. In order to offer more competitive service for customers, L&W also invested warehouses in Taiwan and China while carrying out stock programmes for serveral customers at the same time on specific products. Base on customer's annual demand, our warehouses hold stock for contractual orders and mill supply. We hope to bring more additional value service to customers through our professional inspectors and experienced sales teamwork.

Fong Prean Industrial Patened “MS Twister” Sweeps the U.S.

Flush Finish, Burr-Free and Safe

With37 years’ producing experience and a research and development team operating for over 28 years, Fong Prean is focused on solving problems for end users, specialized in construction screws. For helping customers regarding their product challenges to fulfil market needs, the company has expertise in manufacturing fast-drilling drywall screws and high-quality self drilling screws, and they are also capable of developing custom solutions in collaboration with customers.

Fong Prean continuously innovates to meet the requirements of new building material and power tool. To enhance cross-funtional communication, they keep updating equipments, collect data and optimize systems. They leverage electronic systems to ensure effiecient capacity control, delivery, produciton planning and quality assurance. All these improvements are aimed at minimizing errors, maximizing productivity, and meeting various demands effectively.

The patented drywall screw has been introduced to the US market. Fong Prean especially promotes their patented wood screw "MS twister" by exhibition at IFE. This patented MS head screw, tailored for wood, gypsum boards and various panels, provides a flush and burr-free finish to increase work efficiency. It combines with the Twister thread which perform high holding power and low driving torque for wood applications, ensuring safety. Furthermore, the specially designed screw can reduce wear on electric drills and batteries, as well as lower the rate of splitting near the edge and prevent damage to wood.

Cost Reduction for Builders

Fong Prean sees a growing opportunity in residential, infrastructure and non-residential construction in the US. Given the challenges of labor shortages and increasing wages in the country, the company aims to collaborate with builders to develop products that meet market demands, thereby improving work efficiency and reducing labor costs. Fong Prean is dedicated to continous innovation and actively embraces environment, social and governace (ESG) practices to address the changing commercial landscape and reduce carbon foorprint.

SEMS Screws by Chian Yung

Save Time, Reduce Inventory, and Can be Customized

Witha 1,500 sq. f automated plant and quality control facilities in Benjhou Industrial Park, Chian Yung Corporation specializes in the production and development of SEMS screws and knows the characteristics of screws and washers well. SEMS screws in carbon steel/stainless steel/copper/aluminum in lengths of 1/8"- 4" (3mm-108mm) and specifications of #0-1/2" (M1.4-M12) are currently its main products and it also has electroplating, coating and related post-processing capabilities. With the ability to handle a full range of customized orders from global customers while maintaining consistent quality and prompt delivery, Chian Yung has had its SEMS screws highly visible in automotive, electronic, and computer applications.

Chian Yung's SEMS screws have many advantages and features compared to normal screw applications. Customers don't have to spend extra time to assemble screws and washers, greatly reducing the time cost. Customers don’t have to purchase screws and washers separately, either, so they don’t have to pay attention to quantity and inventory issues at all times. Its production process fully complies with ISO9001:2000 and IATF16949 requirements, and its products fully meet int’l quality standards. It is capable of flexible and customized production to ensure stable quality and on-time delivery.

With nearly 40 years of effort, Chian Yung has maintained close relationships with customers in Europe and the U.S. Through the IFE this year, Chian Yung hopes to gain more trust from customers around the world, further expand business opportunities in the U.S. and its neighboring countries, and get closer to customers' market needs. Chian Yung currently generates nearly 30% of its revenue from the US market, which grew by 30% last year compared to 2011, and the future development is promising.

Chian Yung is open to customers from all industries and welcomes cooperation from domestic and foreign importers, chain stores, large manufacturers, processors, and manufacturers. According to Chian Yung, “Like every small screw, as long as the quality and strength are good, they can play an indispensable role. We will uphold the principle of honesty and pragmatism in dealing with customers, and will not only focus on product customization, but also continue to refine R&D and strengthen services in providing new products to our customers.”

Contact: Billy Chiu/ Judy

Chang

Email: sales@chianyungco.com.tw

Article by Gang Hao Chang, Vice Editor-in-Chief of Fastener World Copyright owned by Fastener World

Article by Gang Hao Chang, Vice Editor-in-Chief of Fastener World Copyright owned by Fastener World

Fulfilling the ESG Concept, Hu Pao Creates a Win-win with Customers

Followingthe spirit of ESG in recent years, Hu Pao Industries Co., Ltd. not only has worked hard to deepen its expertise in the manufacturing of automotive, special, antiloosening, and customized nuts, but also has introduced the concepts of digitization, energy saving and carbon reduction into its production lines, hoping to awaken the industry's awareness of crisis and to align with the international trend of net zero.

Recognizing the potential of U.S. automotive, construction, and standard nut markets, infrastructure opportunities, and the imminent implementation of new carbon emission policies, Hu Pao has partnered with U.S. largest distributor to supply hexagonal nuts, nylon nuts, and locknuts commonly used in the construction and DIY sectors, and also intends to expand its U.S. presence with local distribution channels. In addition, in response to the gradual recovery of the U.S. booming market, Hu Pao, which has been working with the supply chain of global automobile manufacturers for years, expects to play a strong backing role for U.S. EV industry and aims to increase the proportion of U.S. sales to 45%. In addition to a wide range of popular products and weld nuts, Hu Pao is also able to extend its supply of other quality products. 60% of Hu Pao's global exports are automotive nuts, and six specifications of nuts are used by Tesla, the leader in EV.

The new factory built in 2021 is fully compliant with international automotive standards, and the manufacturing equipment has been successively upgraded with the introduction of ERP software, MES system, forming machine pressure sensor, intelligent energy control system, etc., as well as optical inspection machines and Keyence 3D inspection instruments purchased to meet the high precision inspection requirements for automotive/special parts. Hu Pao is leading the Taiwan industry to obtain the ISO14064-1:2018 GHG Inventory Verification in 2023 and

Contact: General Manager Bill Wang Email: bill@hupao.com.tw

Fong Yien’s Shoulder Eye Bolts Pass U.S. Lab Tests

Havingexcellent cold and hot forging technology, Fong Yien Industrial Co., Ltd. mainly produces DIN 444 eyebolts, JIS B1168/1169 shoulder eye bolts & nuts, special eyebolts, and special cold/hot forged fasteners. For more than 40 years, it has obtained orders from many European and Japanese customers due to its excellent quality and relatively reasonable prices. In 2020, it started the production program of ASME B18.15 shoulder eye bolts to expand the U.S. market. Although it used to produce products of European and Japanese specifications, with this new shoulder eye bolt, Fong Yien is able to show the world its expertise in product development and its ability to meet the needs of customers in different market segments.

Fong Yien has just started its sales into the U.S. market recently, but has already established a warehouse there. With the changing consumption habits of buyers in the market during the epidemic and the experience of successfully working with customers in the EU and Japan, Fong Yien is gradually increasing its sales proportion in the US market. In addition to strengthening links with local distribution channels and leveraging B2C and B2B advantages, it is also showing positive performance in e-commerce channels. It is also selling products with its own brands through Amazon.com to strengthen its brand awareness in the N. American market.

In terms of processing, Fong Yien is one of the few companies in the market that has both hot forging and secondary processing facilities. The CNC machines in the factory, which can accurately control the quality of secondary processing, help it create better precision and surface finish than its competitors, and it has even successfully entered the motor production and rigging industries, which require high load capacity and safety coefficients for shoulder eye bolts.

Contact: Sales Manager Wes Chuang Email: weschuang@fongyien.com

continues to develop innovative products with high CP value and competitiveness and provide fast delivery and flexible customization services. In addition, Hu Pao also holds IATF16949:2016, D&B, and ISO 9001:2015 certifications, and has channeled external resources from industry, government, and academia to build a green benchmark company in line with ESG development trends.

"The U.S. market is like a big machine, and we want to be the most valuable supplier of small nuts in it. At the IFE this year, we hope to find more like-minded partners to contribute to the U.S. fastener market," said Bill Wang, General Manager.

"Diversified product sourcing is a global trend to diversify risks, and Fong Yien is able to provide customers with excellent quality, relatively reasonable prices and stable supply efficiency. In addition to having sufficient inspection capacity, its latest ASME B18.15 shoulder eye bolts have also passed the US lab test certification, so customers definitely can place orders with confidence,” said Wes Chuang, Sales Manager.

Article by Gang Hao Chang, Vice Editor-in-Chief of Fastener World Copyright owned by Fastener World

Spring Lake Moves Toward Particle Cleanliness and Low Carbon Transformation to Enhance Fastener Competitiveness

Booth No. 1074

Spring Lake Enterprise Co., Ltd. is a professional fastener manufacturer specializing in export sales, and also has rich experience in international trade and fastener production expertise.

For more than 4 decades, it has attracted many customers for stable and long-term cooperation. In addition to standard products, it is also able to cooperate in developing differentiated solutions according to customers' diverse requirements. Its products include a full range of standard/customized C parts and those produced by multi-stroke machines for

automotive, construction, and electronic applications. M1.8/M2 screws with anti-loosening patches on threads are one of the mainstays of its production. Spring Lake's in-house production advantages allow it to have full control over the entire production process, while also ensuring stable product quality level and fast delivery.

In terms of particle cleanliness, Spring Lake is able to provide cleaning service and inspection analysis report for automotive fasteners, especially for the EV. Requirements can be fulfilled according to ISO 16232 and VDA 19.1. Both of which are widely recognized and used in the automotive industry to ensure the cleanliness and quality of automotive parts. Spring Lake has already supplied cleaned parts to BorgWarner, a leading U.S. automotive parts supplier, through its valued partner, and has received market recognition for its remarkable quality.

In view of the fact that CBAM and net zero are gradually becoming the main development trends around the world, Spring Lake is currently on its way to the low-carbon transformation and plans to apply for ISO 14064 and other related certifications in the near future, hoping to further enhance the competitive edge of its fastener products in the world.

"Even though the global manufacturing industry is in a slowdown, supply chain disruptions happened amid the pandemic, and the energy crisis is caused by sanctions against Russia, companies around the world are beginning to reconstruct secure supply chains and de-globalize to ensure smooth production and defend national security. Taiwan fastener industry features exceptional quality, skilled technology and reasonable prices, it definitely has a fighting chance. Accordingly, we look forward to reaching more potential buyers through the opportunity of IFE this year ! ” said Spring Lake Manager Daniel Chen.

Article by Gang Hao Chang, Vice Editor-in-Chief of Fastener World

Copyright owned by Fastener World

Evereon Industries, Inc.

Contact: Manager Daniel Chen

Email: daniel@springlake.com.tw

Booth No. 613

Withalmost 30 years of experience in producing stainless steel hose clamps, EVEREON has earned a good reputation from our customers. Our products are divided into three series, the German type (Embossed Worm Gear) hose clamps, the American type (Worm Drive) hose clamps and the other customized clamps (Ear Clamps, CV Joint Boot Clamps and Tools).

The first series, our YDS embossed worm gear hose clamps, which are popular, economical and precision-engineered to be used in many general applications. Sometimes called worm drive hose clamps, non-perforated band hose clamps, or German type hose clamps. They are produced in accordance with the DIN 3017 and RoHS & REACH standard. The smooth non-perforated band and flared edge prevent soft silicone hoses from shearing and fraying during installation. Material and clamping range are stamped on the band. Embossed worm gear hose clamps are available in W2, W4 and W5 stainless steel material, and available in 9mm and 12mm band widths.

Besides above standard worm gear hose clamps, we have one butterfly hose clamps, which is designed for DIY, home and garden applications. No tools are required. The handle is designed to resist aging and fatiguing under outdoor. The smooth non-perforated band and flared edge prevent hoses from shearing and extruding during installation.

The second series - YDS worm drive hose clamps are popular and economical to be widely used in industrial, automotive, and agriculture applications. Sometimes called worm gear hose clamps and American type hose clamps. There are also four choices – band width 9mm & 12.7mm, high torque & 14.2mm. The 1/2" width punched perforated band enables clamps to be installed easily and strongly held. Material is stamped on the housing and clamping range is stamped on the band. Worm drive hose clamps are available in carbon steel screw, 430 S.S. screw, all 300 S.S. and all 316 S.S. material.

we still have the Micro Clamps, Bridge Clamps, Lined Clamps, Band Clamps, Cable Ties and TT Heavy Duty Clamps for customers’ choices.

To be a reliable supplier of hose clamps is our vision. We continue to develop more quality products and enhance our services to meet customers’ requirements. Welcome to cooperate with us and create more value for your business.

Contact: Lucy Liu Email: sales3@evereon.com.tw

A-Stainless International

Double Spiral, Square Thread, Triple Thread Screws

A-Stainless in partnership with their factory Fastex Industry Co., Ltd in the last 23 years has introduced a series of innovative screw products to the fasteners market. They first introduced the Square Thread Screws that feature very low driving torque for hard wood, metal, plastic and concrete applications. This type of thread form back in 2000 was a very new concept, the very first of its kind in the market place that soon fetched market footholds in North America, Europe, Australia and Japan.

The square thread they have learned over the years besides being good for hard wood is best suited for metal applications. In the case of aluminum window frames, the driving torque reduction is well above 50 % which is significant enough to do away with head breaking problems when Austenitic, i.e., 304, 305 , 316 (A2 or A4) tapping screws are used for aluminum windows.

Two years after the Square Thread Screws, they introduced the Double Spiral Screws, also meant for hard wood applications, again featuring a general 30-40 % drivein torque reduction verses the regular Type 17 thread cutting screws. In the same year they came up with the Triple Thread Composite Decking Screws, a much improved version over what was available in the market then. Their version has a small trim head with triple threads, i.e.., 3 portion threads of left, right and left thread design. The trimmed small head ensures that the screw head sits flush against the surface of the composite decking while the triple threads compress the plastic spiral waste materials from emerging, i.e., kept under the decking. Built on the square, double spiral and triple thread styles, they have used these variables to come up with various screw versions to suit the specific needs and requirements of their customers.

In the last three years, they have had the latest product, namely the Milled Point Self Drilling Screws made with milling machines deigned and made by their team. They have chosen to make the 6–cut milled point instead of the regular forged point for reasons of the very neat, sharp and consistent cutting blades. The milled point is preferred due to its stability and consistency while drilling thicker metal sheets that require No. 4 or No. 5 drill points.

A-Stainless is committed to making special screw parts for a wide spectrum of different applications where special attention pertaining to thread designs, work hardening, heat treatment, plating and coating needs to be taken. They welcome inquiries especially those that call for specific performing features. Contact: General Manager Asser Liu Email: astainless@hibox.hinet.net

Excellent Fastener Manufacturing & Service

Since 1978

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742

JCGrand is a leading manufacturer and exporter of industrial fasteners and metal hardware components. Since 1978, JC Grand has been serving customers globally with an extensive line of high quality screws, nuts, bolts, washers, anchors, and customized hardware products from its wholly-owned factories in Taiwan and China. All of its locations are ISO 9001 certified, and singularly focused on delivering products and services of exceptionally consistent quality to its clients worldwide.

Certified Facilities and Full-Fledged Capabilities

The company consists of a main office in Taipei, three ISO-9001 and IATF-16949 certified production facilities in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, and an 800,000 square feet vertically-integrated factory in Zhejiang, China, all connected and managed by the same SAP ERP system. In addition, JC Grand owns and operates an A2LA certified (ISO-17025) mechanical testing laboratory in Kaohsiung. Technical staff and internal production cover fastener design, cold heading, self-drilling point forming, continuous line heat treatment (neutral, carburizing and carbo-nitriding), optical and roller sorting, washer assembly, custom packaging and logistics.

New Surface Coating Factory Opened

As of 2022, JC Grand has opened and is currently operating a new, surface coating factory in Kaohsiung focused on the prevention of fastener corrosion in severe outdoor environments. This facility has two principal workflows and equipment: the base coating cold welds, diffuses and seals proprietary multi-metal powders onto the fastener substrate, and the other applies thermoset organic topcoats and friction modifiers on top of the base coat via automated dip-spin lines.

It dispatches more than 300 containers (4500+ tons) of fasteners every month to over forty countries and employs more than 300 sales and factory personnel. It is equipped to produce both standard and customized fasteners that meet all industrial requirements.

Worldwide Service for Various Industrial Demands

Whether you are an industrial manufacturer, OEM or wholesale distributor, professional contractor supplier, or retail-focused operation, it understands your needs and has the experience and capability to consistently meet them. Its goal is to establish and maintain a long-term, mutually-beneficial relationship with its customers, and to provide a level of service that exceeds expectations.

Select industry supply experience

• P rofessional Construction

• Retail Packaged DIY Fasteners

• Home & Commercial Appliances

• H VAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning)

• Electrical Fixtures & Lighting

• Machinery & Motors

• Automotive

Easylink Offers High Quality Service with AIoT

Easylink Industrial Co., Ltd is a high-quality (IATF-16949, ISO 9000, ISO 14001 and VDA 6.3) fastener manufacturer with plants in Taiwan and Vietnam. Founded in 1992, Easylink has over 30 years of experience supplying custom fasteners and stamping parts to the automotive, electronics, electrical, construction and furniture industries.

Throughout its existence, Lerry Tsao, the president of Easylink, has consistently challenged all employees for continuous quality and process improvements. Driven by these principles, Easylink opened a new plant and offices in Kaohsiung, Taiwan in 2018. This new facility is highly automated and draws heavily on the benefits of AIoT and Industry 4.0. The plant utilizes a five-story vertical automated warehouse system (AS/ RS). Machine adjusters manage machine setup utilizing the touch panels located at each machine. Operators pull material from the warehouse system using these same touch panels. The material is delivered to the production machine by robotic buggies. Likewise, finished product is delivered back to the warehouse by similar automated buggies to await secondary operations if required.

With quality in mind, all production gauges have been equipped with wireless capabilities. This enables their connection to the plant’s industrial internet. Utilizing this capability, all production measurements are instantly communicated to the plants SPC software. The system will immediately detect an erroneous measurement and lock down the faulty equipment until corrective action has been taken. Easylink also maintains a TAF certified laboratory that is capable of making most customer PPAP and quality measurements.

To ensure the PPM requirements of its customers, Easylink has established an engineering team that has built over 50 optical sorting machines. Many of these machines are capable of 360-degree measurements to ensure that the entire fastener surface is inspected.

Last but certainly not least, Easylink goes the extra mile to enhance and uphold the standards of quality and consistency by producing its own tooling in-house. This strategic approach not only guarantees comprehensive documentation for tool replacement but also offers the added advantage of scheduling flexibility. These measures exemplify our steadfast dedication to excellence, a core value that resonates throughout every individual within the Easylink team.

Touch panels located at each machine

Sacma Group

Sacma Group will be attending IFE 2023 from October 9-11, 2023 in Las Vegas. The leitmotiv of Sacma Group is to innovate steadily and provide the most reliable range of machines making the customers more competitive in a continuously evolving market.

As usual Sacma Group will welcome all the actors of the fastener world in its booth for an exhibition dedicated to its four brands Sacma, Ingramatic, HS Aspe and Tecno Lift.

Sacma, designer and manufacturer of cold and warm forming machines, will introduce the new generation of wire feeder driven by torque motors named “S-Feed 2.0” and new features for large parts formers sizes 4, 5 and 6 which will be available within 2023. These features have been designed to extend the limit of the standard warm and cold forming machines. Sacma will also introduce its new App. Industry 4.0 which has been implemented with different levels to fit better the needs of the customers according to their ERP system and production organization. Three packages are now available : Industria 4.0 BASIC, ADVANCED and FULL ADVANCED.

Contact: Frederic Nathan

Email: f.nathan@sacmalimbiate.it

The Ingramatic division will give a better understanding about the undisputable capacity to design modular machines, with the introduction of two new modular units which can be integrated into the machines: the assembly unit for bushing and ferrules, and the rotary thread rolling station for multi shape parts. The rotary thread rolling station is already available with three different sizes : RR12, RR16 and RR20 having respectively the maximum capacity for rolling M12, M16 and M20.

The brand HS ASPE is the division of the group providing secondary operation machines to run pre-formed parts with a range of technologies which is consisting of tapping machines, combined machines, transfer machines and multi spindle turning machines. HS ASPE will introduce the new generation of automatic tapping machine model T10-S running parts up to M10. The T10-S is based on the reversible spindle architecture, mechanically driven by lead screws. Internal threads, within the range M2 to M10 can be executed with standard taps in both technologies, cutting and forming. Precision in operation is achieved by means of the structural rigidity of the frame and the very fine design and engineering of the positioning/clamping devices. Orthogonality and concentricity as well as the other dimensional/geometrical features, are so lifelong guaranteed.

Tecno Lift is the company of the group in charge of the design and the manufacturing of all ancillaries for the Sacma Group machines to load, feed and convey parts. The solutions are also available for other application or existing machines already installed to the customers.

Sacma Group staff will be pleased to welcome visitors at IFE 2023, to explain better all the new technologies and the capacity to support all the customers around the world.

www.sacmagroup.com

Sacma app 2023

HS ASPE T10-S

Luna’s Light

Luna’sLight is a Taiwan-based specialized precision fastener manufacturer and supplier, having two CNC turning factories in Taiwan and also supplying CNC milling parts. Our products are mainly applied to automotive parts, machines and many other industries. With 36 years of CNC producing experience, Luna’s Light supplies the best quality and excellent service to customers.

We manufacture OEM customized fasteners per drawings and samples. Our turning product capacity is ø2 mm~ 42mm and 250mm in length. Our milling parts are without limited diameter and length.

We also supply bolts, nuts, stamping parts, assembled parts and any kind of OEM products made from materials like steel, stainless steel, brass, copper, aluminum, titanium and any other materials we can buy.

We work with many Taiwanese associate fastener makers. By combining outsourcing production capacity, Luna's Light not only combines qualified merchandise, but also provides global customers with the most comprehensive range of products (including CNC parts, bolts, nuts, screws, washers, stamping parts, assembled parts, pins and none-metal parts).

Contact: Ms. Ball Lin

Email: sales@visdomsupply.com

We supply import & export agency services for domestic and overseas companies, such as goods and services price quotations, bidding quotations, sales promotion and distributorships in the metal hardware field.

We can provide documents like Certificate of Origin, Inspection Report, raw material Mill Sheet, PPAP 3 and IMDS data.

We offer one-stop-shopping & cost-saving service and provide end-users with high quality products at competitive prices, helping customers get more business opportunities. We also have stock on specific products for customers.

In order to offer more competitive service, we also have an office in Germany to meet European customer's request. Through our products and services, we hope to set more additional value service to work with customers.

Witec PrecisionThe Expert in Springs, Wire Forming Parts, and Stamping Parts

In2015, the president of Witec Precision –Mr. Wade Wu – has completed his career in the spring machine industry. After having lots of experience in setting up spring machines and overcoming the challenging jobs from foreign customers, he decided to expand his career to the metal part manufacturing industry and have his own business.

With some investment from the parent company – Pintec Industry Company Ltd., Witec Precision Industry Co., Ltd. was established to mainly produce springs, wire forming parts, and some stamping parts.

Pintec Industry Company Ltd. mainly produces fasteners, such as spring pins, retaining rings, washers. Pintec and Witec are dedicated to not only being an expert in the metal part industry, but also in the plastic and metal parts assembly industry.

Contact: Nina Wu

Email: nina@witecsp.com

Booth No. 773

Booth No. 659

為了方便統計準確，上述台灣扣件展團名單以有向本展台灣總代理商匯達公司報名為準。

D108a RJW International Co., Ltd. teacbow@gmail.com  www.rjwfastener.com

D109 Chao Jing Precise Machines Enterprise Co., Ltd.  jw.zw@msa.hinet.net www.chaojing.com.tw

D129 Chien Tsai Machinery Enterprise Co., Ltd.  jiancai@jiancai.com.tw  www.jiancai.com.tw

D130 Taiwan Industrial Fasteners Institute (TIFI) tifi.tw@msa.hinet.net  www.fasteners.org.tw

D131 Key-Use Industrial Works Co., Ltd.  sales@keyuse.com.tw  www.keyuse.com.tw

D132 Vertigo Forming Solutions Co., Ltd. vfs.amychang@gmail.com  www.vertigoformingsolutions.com

D133 Tai Huei Screw Industry Co., Ltd.  taihuei.screw@msa.hinet.net  www.taihuei.com

D142 Fratom Fastech Co., Ltd. thomas.liu@fratom-fastech.com www.fratom-fastech.com

Only Taiwanese exhibitors exhibiting through Taiwan's

exclusive agent Fastener World are listed.

American News

Economist to Pac-West: Next Few Years ‘You Are Going to Make Great Money”

“Clearly we are not in a recession now,” Dr. Chris Thornberg told the Pacific-West Fastener Association 2023 spring conference. Though there were “mixed economic signals” at the start of 2023, U.S. unemployment is just 3.5% and first quarter numbers were strong. The U.S. GDP rose 1.1% in Q1. “A ‘Main Street’ recession is unlikely in the near term,” Thornberg observed. Though there has been “excessive stimulus” due to Covid-19, there are no major structural imbalances in the economy now, the economist said.

“The next couple of years you are going to make great money,” Thornberg told Pac-West members. The “narrative” pushed by some is that “a recession is nigh.” Thornberg said some nay-sayers are warning that inflation will crush customers and that “banking stresses are a sign of rot.” But it has been only a “Godot Recession” – a recession that is expected, but never arrives. Today there is a “hangover” from the massive dollars Congress threw at the economy, Thornberg observed. There is inflation. Asset markets have sagged.

But spending is going back to normal after the Covid 19 over stimulation, he said. “This is not a market that is going to capitulate,” Thornberg said. Real estate listing prices haven’t fallen, he pointed out. There are too many job openings.

Thornberg noted there have been some bank failures, inflation is cooling and believes the U.S. is “half way through the current inflation trend.” “There are no major structural imbalances in the economy,” Thornberg declared. “Everybody has cash on hand,” he said.

NEFCO Buys Southwest Fastener

NEFCO completed the acquisition of Phoenix-based Southwest Fastener, expanding its geographic presence into the Southwest with three locations in Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. Financial terms were not disclosed. The deal is NEFCO’s eighth acquisition since 2017.

Founded in 1990, Southwest Fastener supplies strut channel, hardware, strut fittings and specialty fasteners through facilities in Phoenix, Albuquerque and Dallas. Founded in 1981, East Hartford, CT-based NEFCO is a family-run construction supply company with 21 East Coast and Midwest locations. The NEFCO Fastening Solutions divisions provide inventory management for OEMs.

AFC Acquires QFC Industries

AFC Industries has acquired Arlington, TX-based QFC Industries. Founded in 1973 as Quickway Fastener Co., QFC distributes fasteners and other small components to manufacturing and assembly customers in the U.S., Mexico, Europe and China. The company is led by president Clay Roark and operations VP Jason Danner.

In 2022, AFC Industries acquired four fastener companies: Erie-PA-based Champion Bolt; Oregon Bolt in Tigard, OR; Santa Fe Springs, CA-based Askew Industrial; and TFC Ltd. located in Europe.

Headquartered in Fairfield, OH, AFC Industries provides supply chain management solutions for fasteners, tooling and assembly components to OEMs. AFC services include VMI, stock and release programs, light assembly, kitting and private labeling. In 2021, AFC was acquired by Bertram Capital.

TR Fastenings Opens Hungary DC

TR Fastenings Hungary Kft, part of the Trifast plc Group, opened a new facility in Budapest. Established in 2000, TR Hungary outgrew two previous locations. The new 37,700 sq ft high-capacity distribution center will support growing European demand for its products. Customers are “increasingly looking towards the near shoring of products as well as European sourced parts,” the company explained.

Centrally located in Europe with seven countries on its border, Hungary is ideal for distribution hubs. The new Hungary site will provide multinational customers with technical and engineering support, as well as logistics services.

Sales Slow

Fastenal Co. reported fastener sales growth slowed to 7% in the opening quarter of 2023, hurt by lower manufacturing activity. The rate dropped from 9.1% growth in the fourth quarter of 2022 and down from 24.6% growth in the first quarter of 2022.

Fastener sales increased 2.3% in March, 8% in February and 11.6% in January. Q1 fastener sales totaled US$624.7 million (33.6% of overall revenue), up 6.9% from US$584.5 (34.3% of overall revenue) in Q1 of the previous year. Overall net sales rose 9.1% to US$1.86 billion in Q1, due to further demand in markets tied to industrial capital goods and commodities, which more than offset a modest contraction for construction supplies.

“The combination of good demand, more stable cost trends, and our long supply chain for imported fasteners and certain non-fastener products produced stable price levels for our products,” the company stated.

First-quarter operating income gained 9.8% to US$393.2 million, with net earnings up 9.5% to US$295.1 million. Sales to manufacturing customers grew 14.4%, while sales to non-residential construction customers dropped 2.4%. Fastenal added 89 new Onsite locations during the quarter, up 16% amid a 10.8% increase in FastStock signings and a 10.9% increase in FastStoc.

Opens Facility

Shannon Precision Fastener, Madison Hts., MI, USA, recently opened its 170,000 ft2 , state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. In September 2021, the company began construction of the fastener manufacturing facility, just north of Groveland Township. When at full capacity this summer, the new facility will produce 750,000,000 fasteners a year. The new manufacturing facility is adjacent to the 71,000 ft 2 Shannon Precision Fastener distribution center opened in 2017. “We are excited to grow again our Holly facility and remain strong in our communities in which we operate,” said Edward L. Lumm, President/CEO. The distribution/manufacturing center is the newest in a series of expansions by Shannon Precision Fastener, which makes precision engineered fasteners primarily for automotive OEMs that include power train, chassis and safety critical applications.

Nucor Corp. Reports ‘Strong’ Quarter

Nucor Corp. reported consolidated net sales were flat at US$8.71 billion in the first quarter of 2023 and 17% lower than the first quarter of 2022.

Average sales price per ton in the first quarter of 2023 decreased 11% compared with the fourth quarter of 2022 and decreased 18% compared with the first quarter of 2022. A total of 6,443,000 tons were shipped to outside customers in the first quarter of 2023, an increase of 12% compared to the fourth quarter of 2022 and an increase of 1% compared to the first quarter of 2022.

Total steel mill shipments in the first quarter of 2023 increased 18% compared to the fourth quarter of 2022 and increased 4% compared to the first quarter of 2022. Steel mill shipments to internal customers represented 20% of total steel mill shipments in the first quarter of 2023, compared with 20% in the fourth quarter of 2022 and 22% in the first quarter of 2022. Downstream steel product shipments to outside customers in the first quarter of 2023 decreased 3% from the fourth quarter of 2022 and decreased 8% from the first quarter of 2022.

Ramco Specialties Expands Michigan Operations

Ramco Specialties, Inc., Hudson, OH, USA, has expanded its Michigan operations into a new facility in New Hudson, MI, USA. With 50,000 ft 2 of space, this move will help Ramco pick up efficiencies by combining three buildings into one. This is an important step towards the firm’s ongoing efforts to improve operations, streamline processes and better serve customers. It will also benefit employees, who will work in expanded meeting, office and research spaces. The new Michigan facility will continue to serve as Ramco’s home for machining expertise. Ramco also reports two new six-station parts formers, which will increase domestic production in Ohio, USA.

Carmen Vertullo Awarded NFDA’s 2023 Fastener Professional of the Year

The National Fastener Distributors Association (NFDA) is pleased to announce that Carmen Vertullo of Carver Engineering and Manufacturing, San Diego, CA, USA, is the 2023 recipient of its “Fastener Professional of the Year” award. The Fastener Professional of the Year award was created by NFDA to honor individuals and companies that make a substantial positive impact on people’s lives. In nominating Carmen to receive this award, John Butler said he should be recognized due to, “His years of devotion to the fastener industry through education, tribal knowledge and generosity of time and materials.” Carmen has instructed fastener professionals in sales, purchasing and quality, and end-users, manufacturers and engineers for over 30 years. He is a founding instructor of the Fastener Training Institute’s (FTI) Certified Fastener Specialist (CFS) fastener training program and has instructed many hundreds of fastener professionals.

Obituary: Garfield James Edmonds III, 1950 – 2023

Garfield “Gar” J. Edmonds III, 72, of Houston, TX, USA, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2023, at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Born the son of Garfield J. Edmonds Jr. and Lois S. Edmonds (Freed), Gar grew up in the Roxborough section of Philadelphia, PA, USA. He graduated from Roxborough High School in 1968 and earned a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering from Pennsylvania State University at State College, PA, USA, in 1972. After graduation, Gar pursued his passion for manufacturing and distributing metal fasteners and spent most of his career building his business, Alloy & Stainless Fasteners. Founded in Houston, Alloy & Stainless grew to have locations in Texas, Pennsylvania, Oregon, California, and the Netherlands. Up until his death, Gar had no plans to retire, and was always exploring new ways to expand his businesses.

Humberto Avila to GM at ND Industries’ Texas Facility

Leading provider of fastener locking and sealing solutions, ND Industries, Inc., Clawson, MI, USA, announces that Humberto Avila has been promoted to General Manager of its Dallas, TX, USA, processing facility. This advancement highlights Humberto’s dedication and contributions to the company throughout his 17-year tenure. Avila’s career at ND Industries began as Quality Manager of ND’s Los Angeles, CA, USA location. Over the past few years, he assumed additional responsibilities to prepare for this General Manager position. During this time, he effectively managed and supervised dayto-day activities in production, sales, and customer service. His work history demonstrates his commitment to continuous improvement.

Packer Fastener Celebrates 25-Year Anniversary

Packer Fastener, the Green Bay, WI, USAbased threaded fastener and industrial supply distributor, celebrated its 25-year business anniversary on May 1, 2023. The company was founded in 1998 with one location and three original founders. Today, Packer Fastener has grown throughout the Midwest, USA and it has added two sister companies to the family; employing 160 team members and operating several physical branches. The family of companies now includes Packer Freight, a freight brokerage and logistics company; and Albolt Manufacturing, a manufacturer of specialty fasteners. “Our 25-year celebration is going to be great,” said CEO Terry Albrecht. “Throughout summer and fall, we’ll be sharing exciting announcements about new locations, new products, new members of our team and new opportunities.”

Camcar Purchases Assets of Partner Ttapdrive AS

Camcar purchased the assets of its partner, Ttapdrive AS on May 24, 2023. Ttapdrive AS is a Norwegian company that created the ttap® brand of drive systems. Camcar and Ttapdrive already cooperated in a partnership for over 10 years to promote the Torx® ttap® drive system through many quality distribution channels in the construction industry. Torx ttap provides leading stability (anti-wobble) and stick fit allowing increased productivity and lower injuries on job sites. Try it and you will Feel the Difference™. The brand and technology fit very well with Camcar’s mission to be a leading technology provider in the fastener industry.

CEO Terry Albrecht

2022 Fastener Trade Statistics of EU

HS

7318 Iron and steel screws, bolts, nuts, washers, etc. in descending order according to volumes of 2022

The EU imported a total of about 2.03 million tons of fasteners from the world in 2022, with China and Taiwan as the main import sources, accounting for more than 60% of the total. In addition, Turkey, Vietnam and India were also very important import partners for the EU, with individual imports of more than 100,000 tons. In 2022, only UK in the top 10 sources of imports showed a slight decline, while all the other sources were on a growth trend. In terms of value, the EU imported a total of about EUR8.06 billion from the world in 2022, up 25.8% from EUR5.98 billion in 2021, with the top 10 sources showing significant year-on-year growth. The data also shows that the EU is highly dependent on the supply chain of fasteners from Asia.

Export

Exports of fasteners from the EU grew from 569,000 tons in 2020 to 632,000 tons in 2021, and then down to 594,000 tons in 2022. The U.S., China and the U.K. ranked respectively as its largest to third largest export destinations, with the three countries alone accounting for more than 40% of the total. Exports to Switzerland, Mexico, Turkey and Brazil also reached at least 30,000 tons each. However, the data show a decreasing trend in the volume of fasteners exported from the EU to the US, China and the UK in 2022 on a year-on-year basis, while the portion exported to Switzerland, Mexico, Turkey, Brazil, India and Morocco all showed growth. In terms of value, the EU's fastener exports grew from 4.31 billion euros in 2021 to 5.35 billion euros in 2022, with all of the top 10 exporters showing growth in 2022 except for China, which showed a year-over-year decrease.

Article by: Gang Hao Chang, Vice Editor-in-Chief of Fastener World

Taiwan CSC Quarterly Conference with Fastener Business Owners (2nd

In terms of statistics on wire rod, in the first four months this year, Taiwan's imports of high, medium and low carbon steel fell significantly in weight, by 41%, 34% and 19% respectively. In the same period, Taiwan imported the largest proportion of wire rods from Indonesia, accounting for 48%, followed by South Korea and Vietnam, each accounting for 17%. The main types of steel imported were low carbon steel and alloy steel, accounting for 50% and 35% respectively.

In terms of fastener prices, Taiwan's exports of screws, bolts and nuts in the first four months of this year amounted to 440,000 tons, down 25% year-on-year, with an average unit price of US$3.88 per kilogram, up 4.4%. In the same period, Taiwan's top five export destinations for these products were the United States, Germany, the Netherlands, Japan, Canada, of which only the weight of exports to the Netherlands had a slight growth, while exports to the other four countries had more than 20% decline, indicating that in the same period this year, Taiwan got a reduced number of orders for these products.

Round, 2023)

With the war between Russia and Ukraine still unceasing as of mid-2023, as well as the fastener industry in Taiwan now at a relatively low level in terms of orders received, Taiwanese business owners are much concerned about the future wire rod price and global market development. They converged in Kaohsiung on June 2 for a conference with Taiwan CSC. During the conference, Taiwan CSC representatives gave the attendees a report which was divided into several aspects.

Looking at the global economy, the financial turmoil, RussiaUkraine war and inflation have caused the global economic growth rate to drop from 3.4% to 2.4% last year, but even so, the forecast for 2024 is that it may rebound to 3%. Regionally, the U.S. economic growth rate may fall from 2.1% last year all the way down to 1% next year, Europe from 3.5% last year to 1.4% next year, Japan hovering flat at about 1%, China potentially up from 3% last year to 4.5% next year, and ASEAN from 4% last year to 4.5% next year. Taiwan will have to strive to keep its economic growth rate at 2% this year.

Taiwan CSC observed that the global steel price index over the past three quarters can be characterized as being flat with little ups and downs.

In the construction market, the number of new housing starts in the U.S. revealed an overall downward trend last year. In the first four months this year, the number of housing starts rose upward, with a 2.2% increase in April, said Taiwan CSC. In addition, the local construction industry's confidence index also reached a 10-month high.

In the auto market, U.S. vehicle sales showed signs of a slow recovery in the first quarter this year. April sales grew 7.7% over the same period last year, reaching 1.357 million units. In Europe, vehicle sales in the first four months this year increased compared to the same period last year, indicating that manufacturers have solved the backlog of orders and the supply chain is gradually improving, and that the current recovery is continuing.

Taiwan CSC explained that the decline in the number of orders from overseas is due to the global macro-environment. Fastener inventory in overseas countries remains high, and thus the demand for Taiwanese fasteners has become less. The case is even worse for the business of Taiwanese auto fastener companies. Taiwan CSC suggested to go for energy saving and carbon reduction when there are fewer orders.

TIFI Chairman Mr. Tu-Chin Tsai

TIFI (Taiwan Industrial Fasteners Institute) Chairman Mr. TuChin Tsai echoed with a message to business owners that the EU carbon tax will soon affect the fastener industry in Taiwan, so it is time to prepare ahead for worst case scenarios in order to be able to receive orders when the tide of carbon tax sweeps in.

Taiwan CSC observed that most of the fasteners originating from China have been exported to Russia in recent years. In addition, it was also observed that the orders placed on steel mills in Vietnam only reached 60% of their full capacity, which bodes ill for the fastener business owners in Vietnam. An audience at the conference said, although business opportunities in Southeast Asia have been booming in recent years, his experience tells that the manufacturing costs in many aspects are higher in Vietnam than in Taiwan, and this is coupled with Vietnam's local policy of limitation on electricity supply. Doing business in Vietnam is getting harder, he said.

Taiwan CSC added that there are still turning points in the current situation of Taiwan fastener industry. Interest rates in the U.S. have reached their peak and will slowly drop in the future, and therefore we will be moving from high interest rates to an era of low interest rates. “Time will be on our side eventually,” said Taiwan CSC.

Article by Dean Tseng, Fastener World, Copyright owned by Fastener World

(Source: TIFI)

Table 1. Taiwan’s Export Weight and Price Charge of Major Fastener Types in First 4 Months of 2023

Table 2. Taiwan’s Export Weight of Screws, Bolts and Nuts in First 4 Months of 2023

Analyzing the Post-pandemic

Chinese Construction Fastener Market

TheCOVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the global economy, and the Chinese construction fastener market was not immune to this impact. However, with the rollout of vaccines and the gradual reopening of Chinese economy, the construction fastener market in China is poised to recover and grow.

Article by: Sharareh Shahidi Hamedani Copyright owned by Fastener World

Chinese Infrastructure Projects and Its Relation to Construction Fasteners

One of the key drivers of the Chinese construction fastener market is the country’s massive infrastructure development projects. Chinese government has announced plans to spend trillions of dollars on infrastructure (buildings, bridges, tunnels, and other infrastructure projects) over the next few years, which will create a huge demand for construction fasteners. Additionally, the increasing urbanization in China, coupled with rising disposable incomes, is expected to drive demand for housing, which will further fuel the construction fastener market. Some of the projects that improve the numbers in the construction fastener sector are:

Belt and Road Initiative: This is a massive infrastructure project that aims to connect Asia, Europe, and Africa through a network of roads, railways, ports, and other infrastructure. The Chinese government has already committed over US$1 trillion to this project, and it is expected to continue for many years.

High-speed Rail: China has the world’s largest high-speed rail network, with over 22,000 miles of track. The government plans to continue expanding this network, with a target of 30,000 miles of high-speed rail by 2025.

Urbanization: China’s urbanization rate is expected to reach 70% by 2030, which will require significant investments in urban infrastructure such as transportation, housing, and utilities.

Renewable Energy: China is the world’s largest producer of renewable energy, and the government plans to continue investing in this sector. In 2020, the government announced a plan to invest over US$360 billion in renewable energy by 2025. (The construction of 5G infrastructure often involves the installation of small cell sites on utility poles, streetlights, and

other existing infrastructure. This requires specialized fasteners that can securely attach small cells to the existing infrastructure without damaging it.)

5G Network: China is also investing heavily in 5G networks, with a target of providing 5G coverage to all urban areas by 2025. This will require significant investments in infrastructure such as base stations, fibre optic cables, and data centres. (The construction of 5G infrastructure requires a variety of construction fasteners that support the installation of 5G equipment. These fasteners are used in the installation of antennas, base stations, and other equipment that make up the 5G network.)

Airport Expansion: China has the world’s largest aviation market and plans to expand its airport network significantly. The government has announced plans to build new airports and expand existing ones, with a goal of having 450 airports by 2035.

Rural Infrastructure: Chinese government is also investing in infrastructure projects in rural areas, such as building new roads, bridges, and water supply systems. This is aimed at improving living standards and reducing poverty in these areas. Chinese government plans to invest CNY 1.2 trillion (approximately USD 183 billion) in rural infrastructure over the next three years.

The Chinese Consume Smart Fasteners in Their Construction Projects

Another trend that is expected to drive the Chinese construction fastener market is the growing adoption of smart fasteners. As the demand for safer and more durable structures increases, smart fasteners are likely to become more widely adopted. Chinese government has been promoting the use of smart fasteners in various infrastructure projects as a way to improve the efficiency and safety of these structures. Smart fasteners are designed to provide realtime monitoring of the performance of structures they are installed in, by measuring factors such as stress, temperature, vibration, and strain. Chinese government has recognized the potential benefits of using smart fasteners in various infrastructure projects, including bridges, tunnels, highways, railways, and buildings. The use of smart fasteners can help to detect potential problems early, prevent structural failure or damage, and reduce maintenance costs over the long term. In recent years, Chinese government has been investing in the research and development of smart fasteners and promoting their use in infrastructure projects. For example, the government has launched a Smart Fasteners Industrial Technology Innovation Strategic Alliance to coordinate research and development efforts in this area. In addition, Chinese government has included the use of smart fasteners in several key infrastructure projects, including Hong Kong-ZhuhaiMacao Bridge and Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway. As the use of smart fasteners becomes more widespread in China, it is expected that this technology will play an increasingly important role in the country’s infrastructure development plans. According to a recent report by Grand View Research, the global smart fasteners market was valued at USD 187.4 million in 2019 and is expected to reach USD 414.2 million by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 10.4% from 2020 to 2027. China is the fastest growing country in the world in this sector.

E-commerce and Its Effect on Chinese Consumption of Construction Fasteners

The COVID-19 pandemic has also accelerated the adoption of e-commerce in the Chinese construction fastener market. Online

sales platforms have become increasingly popular, providing customers with greater convenience and access to a wider range of products. This trend is expected to continue postpandemic, with more companies embracing e-commerce as a key channel for sales. According to a report by Technavio, the market size of online sales of industrial fasteners in China was estimated to be USD 1 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 10% between 2023 and 2027. This suggests that a significant portion of fastener trade is now taking place online in China.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Chinese construction fastener market is expected to recover and grow after the pandemic, driven by massive infrastructure development projects, increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and the adoption of smart fasteners. The trend towards e-commerce is also expected to continue, providing customers with greater convenience and access to a wider range of products. According to these changes, the future of construction fasteners in China looks promising, with the market expected to experience steady growth over the coming years. According to a report by QYResearch, the construction fastener market in China was valued at approximately USD 11.0 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 12.8 billion by the end of 2027, growing at a CAGR of 3.1% between 2022 and 2027.

Brazilian News

Originally founded by Brazilians at 1953, currently member of PCC USA, this fastener manufacturer has become a global aerospace provider

When Ford Motor Company inaugurated the first assembly line in its Brazilian unit, in São Paulo City in 1953, its neighborhood Metalac was starting its activities, as a manufacturer of cylindrical hexagon socket head bolts.

With a new leadership under Júlio Milko and Léo Braun since 1957, respectively Hungarian and North American, the company started its new era quickly combining growth and

Metalac SPS: 70 years modernization.

For example, since 1959 the company has been already part of the supply chain of multinational automakers in the country, such as Ford, General Motors, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen, allocating bolts lines to be used for cars, trucks and buses, including items for critical applications.

Associated with the North American SPS Technologies since 1966, in 1979 Metalac had a critical transformation with the relocation to Sorocaba City, 110 km away from São Paulo, in an area where more than 42 thousand square meters were for manufacturing.

Since 2003 all operations of SPS were sold to Precision Castparts Corp (PCC), USA, a producer of a wide range of complex metallic products for aerospace and industrial sectors, for which Metalac had become a source of aerospace fasteners. Since 2019 these operations have involved robust investments in local production of bolts and nuts for use in landing gear and braking systems on planes, according to Rodrigo Barranqueiro Egêa, the plant manager of Metalac, a unit that has more than 300 employees, 37 thousand square meters of factory area and an average of 53 tons/day production, mainly supplying to the automotive sector, with activities up to 70 years.

More Than 10 Thousand Tons of Fasteners Supplied to the Motorcycle Sector

Brazilian motorcycle production passes 1.7 million units in 2023

During the assembly process, each motorcycle requires an average 6 kg of bolts, screws, nuts, among others, according to Rubens Cioto, the director of Fastening Technological Center (Centro Tecnológico de Fixação).

Both automobiles and motorcycles produced in Brazil are under the Complete Knock Down (CKD) production concept, so local motorcycle makers do not necessarily buy fasteners only made in Brazil.

Rodrigo Barranqueiro Egêa, Metalac Plant Manager

The local market in 2023 can surpass the demand of more than 10 thousand tons because the motorcycle sector has grown during the last five years, with prediction to achieve around 1.7 million units by the end of the year. Also, there is a possibility of surpassing the two million mark by 2024, a mark once hit with more than 2.136 million units in 2012.

In Q1 2023 the local motorcycle makers put 397,070 new units on the market, up 21.37% from the same quarter in 2022 (up 40.61% from Q1 2021), as shown in the table.

The Brazilian Motorcycle Production, (Unit: Vehicle)

Systek Holds Bolted Joints Workshop

Source: Abraciclo (www.abraciclo.com.br)

From its 1st edition, the event will have other editions

With more than 25 years of activities in manufacturing and services involving equipment and technology for tightening, measuring, testing and control systems, in addition to conducting training, Systek gathered 117 people for the 1st edition of its bolted joints workshop on May 17 this year. The Technological Park of Sorocaba City hosted this event, which will continue to be held periodically, according to engineer Lídio Andrade, director of Systek and main lecturer.

“Share knowledge acquired over time and thus create critical mass; doing that, too, through exposition and interaction, was what motivated us to hold this meeting,”said Lídio to Brazilian fastener manufacturers such as Brasimpar, Lipos, Metalac Omke, Tekfor, and Tecnofix, as well as companies from other sectors such as MKS-Atotech, Metalfast, Montmann (surface treatment); Bosch, Dana, Gestamp, Hyundai, Kanjiko, Knorr-Bremse, Krupp, MWM, Scania, and Toyota (consumers), as well as teachers and students from Senai (National Service of Industrial Learning).

Introduction

China’s machinery industry is emerging as a global leader, as it enters a new phase of producing high-end products. According to China Machinery Industry Federation, the industry achieved a sales revenue of 12.95 trillion yuan (USD1.87 trillion) in the first half of 2022, showing a 5.44 percent increase compared to 2021. The sales revenue and total profits of the strategic emerging subcategories accounted for 79.3 percent and 76.64 percent of the overall machinery industry, respectively, reflecting growths of 3.38 percent and 2.67 percent.

After years of efforts made by Chinese enterprises, the global engineering machinery market formerly dominated by manufacturers from Taiwan, Germany, Italy, the United States, and Japan is opening the door for Chinese players, as the key to such a situation is competitiveness.

Undoubtedly, in the past few years, the level of China’s manufacturing industrial chain in general and machinery industry in specific experienced a swift growth in development. This was the result of the systematic improvement of China’s comprehensive national strength and the qualitative leap in innovation capability.

In addition to that, the government’s beneficial policies promoted the development of China’s high-end smart manufacturing. Good examples are the development plans for Hunan and Jiangsu Provinces.

During the 13th Five-Year Plan period (2016-20), Hunan Province witnessed a significant growth in its R&D investment, with the total investment doubling. Furthermore, the sales revenue of the sector in Hunan exceeded one-quarter of the national level, and the total

added value of high-tech industries in the province reached an impressive 1 trillion yuan. Hunan provincial government has continued to prioritize technological innovation during the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25), as evident in the draft guideline issued in 2021. The focus of the guideline is on making key technological breakthroughs, refining the technological innovation system, enhancing enterprises’ capacity for independent innovation, and consolidating technological foundation.

Xuzhou, located in Jiangsu province, is renowned for its engineering machinery and is actively working to promote the industry to a world-class level. The engineering machinery cluster in Xuzhou was among the first batch of national advanced manufacturing clusters. Over the years, the government has been dedicated to building the cluster into one with a complete industrial chain. As of 2021, the output value of the machinery industry for enterprises whose annual business income hits 20 million yuan each in Xuzhou made up 30 percent of the city’s total industrial output value in the same category. Furthermore, in the first half of the year, the output value reached an impressive 77.5 billion yuan.

Fastener Machinery

As stated above, Chinese fastener machinery market is currently undergoing a shift towards high-quality development. Chinese manufacturers are proving their ability to produce not only highquality products, but also to exercise advanced management skills, thereby transforming the label of “made in China” into “smart fastener machinery manufacturing”.

Overview of 2022 Chinese Fastener Machinery Market and 2023 Outlook

Article by Shervin Shahidi Hamedani Copyright owned by Fastener World

There are no shortcuts in the machinery industry; only by persistently striving towards innovation and development can enterprises lead the way towards the future of manufacturing. Chinese fastener machinery enterprises have seized domestic development opportunities and have demonstrated their prowess in enhancing technological innovation capabilities, manufacturing highend machinery products equipped with independent core technologies.

China is one of the largest producers and exporters of fasteners in the world. The country has a highly fragmented market with many small and medium-sized enterprises. In the last few years, Chinese fastener machinery market was growing at a steady pace due to the high demand for fasteners from the construction and automotive industries.

The market is driven by the growing demand for fasteners in various industries, including automotive, construction, aerospace, and electronics, among others. According to a report by Grand View Research, the fastener machinery market in China was valued at USD 2.47 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8% from 2021 to 2028.

The market is highly competitive, with many domestic and international players vying for market share. The fastener machinery market in China is characterized by intense competition, rapid technological advancements, and increasing automation. Many players in the market are investing heavily in research and development to improve the efficiency and quality of their machinery.

Chinese government has also been promoting the development of the fastener machinery industry, providing various incentives and policies to support domestic manufacturers. For example, in 2019, the government launched the “Made in China 2025 ” initiative, which aims to upgrade the country ’ s manufacturing industry, including the fastener machinery sector, through innovation and technology.

Despite steady growth, the fastener machinery market has been facing some challenges due to various factors such as rising labour costs, environmental regulations, and increasing competition from other countries. In response, like any other industry, industrial fastener machinery manufacturers in China are increasing their efforts to explore international high-end machinery markets by constructing international levels and growing market shares.

Fastener machines have been drastically transformed by leveraging on disruptive technologies and become much smarter than before. Machines can assist fastener manufacturers in solving some of their key production issues, such as low automation rates, and poor production line flexibility. Chinese manufacturers have been investing in advanced technology and automation to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

The COVID-19 pandemic also had an impact on the market, with a slowdown in demand and disruptions in the supply chain. However, as the pandemic is brought under control, the market is expected to rebound and continue its growth trajectory in the coming years.

Overall, the outlook for the fastener machinery market in China remains positive, with a continued focus on innovation and technology likely to drive growth in the industry. Chinese fastener machinery market is expected to constantly increase its strength and performance through technical innovation and industrial upgrade. The increasing use of lightweight materials in the manufacturing of vehicles, coupled with the need for fasteners that are stronger, more durable, and corrosion-resistant, is also contributing to the growth of the market in 2023 and beyond.

Fastener Trade of the U.S.

in 2022 Through Q1 2023

Fasteners play a crucial role in various industries, providing the necessary strength and stability to hold things together. From construction and automotive to aerospace and manufacturing, fasteners are an essential component in countless applications. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive review of the fastener trade in the United States, covering the trends, challenges, and developments throughout 2022 and the first quarter of 2023.

Overview of the Fastener Industry in 2022 >>

The fastener industry in the United States has witnessed steady growth over the years, driven by strong demand from multiple sectors. In 2022, the market continued to expand, fuelled by factors such as infrastructure projects, industrial production, and the rebounding economy. The U.S. construction industry was expected to contract by 4.3% in 2022, following growth of 1% in 2021. Manufacturing capacity was expected to move up 0.3 percent in 2022 after edging up 0.1 percent in 2021. The industry saw a surge in demand for fasteners, ranging from bolts and nuts to screws and rivets, as businesses aimed to meet the needs of their projects and operations. Imported fasteners to the U.S. reached USD 8.533 billion in 2022 that is 30% higher than 2021 and exported fasteners from the U.S. reached USD 4.765 billion in 2022 that is 15.2% higher than 2021. How did this significant growth happen in the fastener market in the USA?

• Reshoring and Domestic Production

One significant trend observed in the fastener trade was the increased focus on reshoring and domestic production. With the disruptions caused by the pandemic, many businesses recognized the importance of local supply chains and reducing dependence on foreign manufacturers. As a result, several companies began investing in domestic production facilities, boosting the growth of the fastener industry in the U.S.

• Technological Advancements

The fastener industry also experienced notable technological advancements in 2022. Automation and digitalization played a crucial role in streamlining manufacturing processes and enhancing productivity. Advanced fastening solutions, such as smart fasteners with built-in sensors and self-locking mechanisms, gained popularity due to their ability to improve efficiency and provide real-time data for monitoring and maintenance.

Fasteners in the U.S. in 2023 >>

While the fastener industry experienced overall growth, it also encountered several challenges during 2022 and the first quarter of 2023.

• Supply Chain Disruptions

The COVID-19 pandemic continued to impact global supply chains, causing disruptions in the availability and delivery of raw materials. The fastener industry relied heavily on steel and other metals, which faced supply constraints due to shutdowns, transportation issues, and increased costs. These disruptions led to price fluctuations and longer lead times, affecting the profitability of manufacturers and suppliers.

• Escalating Raw Material Costs

The fastener industry grappled with soaring raw material costs, primarily driven by increased demand and limited supply. The rising prices of steel, aluminium, and other metals directly impacted the cost of fasteners, putting pressure on manufacturers and distributors. To mitigate these challenges, businesses explored alternative materials and sought to optimize their supply chain operations to manage costs effectively.

The first quarter of 2023 saw the fastener industry grappling with the aftermath of the challenges faced in the previous year. While supply chain disruptions persisted, manufacturers and distributors worked towards stabilizing their operations. Efforts were made to diversify suppliers, establish strategic partnerships, and invest in digital tools for improved visibility and agility. On the other hand, with the gradual recovery of economies worldwide, the fastener trade in the U.S. showed

signs of improvement. Infrastructure projects, in particular, gained momentum, creating opportunities for growth in the industry. Government initiatives aimed at bolstering infrastructure development further supporting the demand for fasteners and driving market expansion (The following table shows the import and export of USA from July 2022 to Feb. 2023).

Key Points on the Fastener Industry in the U.S. in 2023 >>

Technology Integration: The integration of technology continued to be a key focus in Q1 2023. Digital tools, such as advanced inventory management systems and predictive analytics, enabled businesses to optimize their operations, mitigate risks, and respond more effectively to market fluctuations. Embracing technology not only enhanced efficiency but also provided a competitive advantage for fastener manufacturers and distributors.

Sustainability Initiatives: Sustainability remained a driving force in the fastener industry, with businesses increasingly adopting sustainable practices. Companies continued to invest in research and development to develop eco-friendly fasteners with improved performance and durability. Green certifications and compliance with environmental regulations became crucial factors for market success, as consumers and businesses alike prioritized sustainable products.

Conclusion >>

The fastener trade in the United States experienced growth and development throughout 2022 and the first quarter of 2023. Despite challenges such as supply chain disruptions and escalating raw material costs, the industry demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Looking ahead, the integration of technology will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the fastener industry. Manufacturers and distributors are investing in advanced inventory management systems, predictive analytics, and other digital tools to optimize their operations. These technological advancements enable businesses to improve efficiency, mitigate risks, and respond more effectively to market fluctuations. Embracing technology provides a competitive edge and positions companies for future success.

Another notable trend is the increasing focus on reshoring and domestic production. The disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of local supply chains and reducing dependence on foreign manufacturers. Many companies have started investing in domestic production facilities, which not only boosts the growth of the fastener industry, but also strengthens the overall resilience of the supply chain.

Sustainability initiatives also continue to shape the fastener trade. Businesses are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, utilizing greener materials, and reducing waste generation. Sustainable fasteners, made from recycled materials or designed for longevity, are gaining popularity as environmental consciousness grows among consumers and businesses. Obtaining green certifications and complying with environmental regulations have become crucial for market success and meeting the demands of environmentally conscious stakeholders.

Article by Behrooz Lotfian; Copyright owned by Fastener World

Analysis of Fastener Trade in Canada from 2022 Through Q1 2023

Introduction

The fastener trade in Canada is a crucial sector that plays a vital role in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, automotive, and aerospace. Understanding the trends, challenges, and growth opportunities within this industry is essential for businesses, policymakers, and investors alike. In this article, we will conduct an analysis of the fastener trade in Canada, focusing on the period from 2022 through the first quarter of 2023. By examining key market indicators, trade data, industry insights, and technological advancements, we aim to provide a detailed overview of the fastener trade landscape and shed light on the factors shaping its trajectory.

Overview of the Canadian Fastener Industry

The Canadian fastener industry is a dynamic and diverse sector that caters to the needs of various industries. It encompasses manufacturers of screws, bolts, nuts, rivets, and other essential components used for joining and fastening applications. The industry is driven by sectors such as construction, manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods.

The revenue of Canada's screw, nut, and bolt manufacturers has experienced a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) decline of 1.6% over the past five years. It is estimated to have reached US$926.1 million in 2023, with a further projected decline of 0.8% in revenue. Despite this, the industry is expected to achieve a profit margin of approximately 10.0% during the same period. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a severe impact on downstream markets, which are crucial for fastener manufacturers. These markets include aircraft, automobile, and consumer goods manufacturing. The restrictions and reduced travel due to the pandemic led to a decrease in demand, while consumer confidence declined, affecting consumer electronics expenditure. Although there was some temporary relief from the residential construction market, it was insufficient to compensate for the significant declines experienced in other sectors.

Trends and Growth Drivers

• Technological Advancements and Automation: Technological advancements have revolutionized the fastener industry, leading to improved efficiency, precision, and product quality. Automated manufacturing processes, such as robotics and computer numerical control (CNC) machining, have streamlined production lines and reduced labour-intensive tasks. This has resulted in faster production cycles, reduced costs, and increased overall productivity. Furthermore, advancements in material science have led to the development of high-performance fasteners capable of withstanding extreme conditions, such as high temperatures and corrosive environments.

• Changing Consumer Preferences and Market Trends: Consumer preferences and market trends play a significant role in shaping the fastener trade landscape. There is an increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly fastening solutions. This has prompted manufacturers to develop eco-friendly fasteners using recycled materials or incorporating biodegradable components. Additionally, there is a growing preference for aesthetically pleasing and innovative fasteners in industries such as furniture and consumer electronics, driving the development of decorative and concealed fastening solutions.

• Government Initiatives and Infrastructure Development: Government initiatives and investments in infrastructure development projects have a significant impact on the fastener trade. The Canadian government's focus on infrastructure expansion, including transportation, renewable energy, and construction projects, presents substantial growth opportunities for fastener manufacturers. These initiatives create a demand for fasteners used in infrastructure development, such as bridges, roads, railways, and renewable energy installations.

• International Trade and Market Expansion: Canada's participation in trade agreements, such as NAFTA (now the USMCA), has facilitated increased international trade for the fastener industry. The agreement provides Canadian fastener

Article by Shervin Shahidi Hamedani; Copyright owned by Fastener World

manufacturers with access to a larger market in the United States and Mexico, creating opportunities for export expansion. Furthermore, emerging economies in Asia and Latin America present untapped markets for Canadian fastener exports.

• Industry Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaboration and partnerships within the fastener industry are key drivers of innovation and growth. Fastener manufacturers often collaborate with raw material suppliers, technology providers, and end-users to develop customized fastening solutions and address specific industry needs. These collaborations foster knowledge exchange, enhance product development capabilities, and open new market opportunities.

Trade Data Analysis

Analysing trade data provide valuable insights into the performance of the fastener trade in Canada. While we don't have access to specific figures for 2022 and Q1 2023, we can examine historical trends to gain a broader understanding of the industry's import and export patterns. Graphic 1 illustrates the import and export value of fasteners (HS Code 7318) by Canada in the year 2022, measured in millions of dollars.

Historically, Canada has been a net importer of fasteners, primarily due to the high demand from various industries. The United States and China have been major sources of imports for Canada, supplying a significant portion of fasteners consumed in the country. However, Canadian fastener manufacturers have also established a strong presence in international markets, exporting their products to countries around the world. Graphic 2 shows the major source of fasteners shipped to Canada in 2022, measured in millions of dollars.

Graphic 3 displays the export value (in million US dollars) from Canada to the five primary destinations, with the United States significantly leading the pack compared to other countries.

Examining the data for the first two months of 2023, it is evident that Canada has imported fasteners with a total value exceeding USD 323 million, while the export value amounted to slightly over USD 104 million. To gain a better understanding of the trends in fastener imports and exports in Canada, Graphic 4a and Graphic 4b compare the value of fasteners (HS Code 7318) during the first two months of the years (2020 to 2023). This analysis allows for a comprehensive examination of the fluctuations in fastener trade over this period.

The data for the first two months of 2023 indicate a notable increase in the value of fastener imports compared to the previous two years. During this period, the import figures have shown a significant improvement, suggesting a positive trend in fastener trade. This rise in import value highlights the growing demand for fasteners in Canada and signifies a potential expansion in the industry. By examining these figures, it becomes evident that the fastener market is experiencing a promising start to 2023, outperforming the import values observed in the corresponding months of the previous two years.

Graphic 1. The Import and Export Values of Fasteners by Canada in 2022

Graphic 2. The Major Sources of Fasteners Shipped to Canada in 2022

Graphic 3. The Export Values from Canada to the Five Primary Destinations

Challenges and Opportunities

The fastener trade in Canada faces both challenges and opportunities. Supply chain disruptions, such as raw material shortages or transportation issues, can impact production and lead to increased costs. Additionally, intense market competition, both domestically and internationally, poses challenges for Canadian fastener manufacturers.

However, the industry also presents significant opportunities. The continued focus on sustainable practices and eco-friendly solutions opens avenues for innovation and market differentiation. Fastener manufacturers can leverage technological advancements to improve efficiency and develop highperformance fasteners tailored to specific industry needs. Moreover, strategic collaborations and partnerships can enhance product development capabilities and expand market reach.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the fastener trade in Canada is a dynamic sector that serves as a vital component of multiple industries. Technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, government initiatives, international trade, and industry collaborations are key factors driving growth in the Canadian fastener industry. Monitoring these trends, embracing innovation, and addressing challenges will be crucial for businesses to stay competitive and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the fastener trade. By continuously adapting to evolving market dynamics, Canadian fastener manufacturers can position themselves for long-term success.

Sources:

• Screw, Nut & Bolt Manufacturing in Canada - Market Research Report by IBIS World

• ITC, Trade Map, Trade statistics for international business development

Graphic 4a. Comparison of Fastener Export Values in Canada in 2020-2023

4b. Comparison of Fastener Import Values in Canada in 2020-202

Soft Power of Taiwan Fastener Industry Through 70 Years of Thick and Thin

Following the end of COVID, Taiwan International Fastener Show 2023 was held in Southern Taiwan and successfully closed on May 5. It has been 5 years before this fastener show returned to Kaohsiung City. It not only facilitated the exchange and collaboration between domestic and overseas fastener industries, but also injected new vitality and momentum into Taiwan fastener industry. The exhibition gathered nearly 300 excellent fastener manufacturers and nearly 900 booths, with a tagline which wrote "Where Quality Sets the Pace", emphasizing that the 2023 show featured "high end", "high-tech" and "high value", and incorporated ESG green sustainability issues, attracting nearly 10,000 professionals from the fastener industry worldwide. According to the statistics by Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), 60 countries and nearly 1,100 overseas buyers visited the show. TAITRA invited 49 international buyers and 24 business owners from 18 countries, including Mexico, Germany, UK, France, Brazil, New Zealand, Finland, the U.S., Canada, and the United Arab Emirates, to conduct 152 one-on-one procurement meetings, bringing huge potential business opportunities for Taiwan fastener industry through matchmaking activities.

The success of the show indicates that the products of Taiwan fastener industry are world-class in depth and breadth. Taiwan fastener industry can build a complete supply chain covering upstream, midstream and downstream. Fastener products made in Taiwan not only have stable quality and innovative technology, but also integrate the latest industrial technology, software and hardware system to tailor to the needs of customers around the world. Taiwan has been improving technology and quality in recent years, and the proportion of fasteners applied in highend industries such as automotive, medical, aerospace, offshore wind power and information technology has been increasing year by year. Taiwan fastener industry continues to move towards "high value", "low carbon" and "flexibility". In recent years it has been actively developing and introducing the latest energy-saving and carbon-reducing technologies. In the face of rapid changes in the internal and external environment of Taiwan fastener industry, having a highly flexible production model is the best way to cope with environmental changes.

Taiwan fastener industry is one of the world's pioneers in industrialization and has built the most complete industrial supply chain with a one-stop production model. In the second half of 2022, under the influence of the gloomy global steel economy, although manufacturers' order books were affected, resulting in an export volume slightly lower than in 2021, the export value surpassed the US$6.1 billion mark, mainly because Taiwan fastener industry has successfully transformed to produce high-value products and increase average unit price, as well as continue efforts toward low-carbon production and smart manufacturing.

History of Taiwan Fastener Industry

Since the end of World War II, there was a huge demand for fasteners both domestically and internationally. The fundamental industry in Taiwan was in its infancy at that time. Since the 1950s, Taiwan fastener industry has been developing for more than 70 years and has been pursuing transformation and upgrade in accordance with the changes in global industrial competition. With the efforts in resource integration, division of labor, and concerted upstream and downstream efforts, the industry has moved from the conventional screw and nut manufacturing into high-end applications such as automotive, medical, and aerospace. At its peak, the export of fastener products in Taiwan was always the most in the world, accounting for 30% of global shipments at one time, but since 1995, with the screw and nut factories in China and Southeast Asia entering the market at low prices, the market share of Taiwan's overall fastener exports has been decreasing year by year. Some Taiwanese companies have also set up factories in China and Southeast Asia, which has had a large impact on the export of Taiwan fastener industry. At this point, Taiwanese fastener manufacturers know they can no longer use low-priced fastener production as a means of international competition, and their only way is to improve technology and quality is to shift to the development of high-end products. Facing the rapid rise of Chinese manufacturers, Taiwanese manufacturers have continued to invest resources in upgrade and transformation to develop

high-end products for automotive, medical, and aerospace applications in order to continue to drive exports and create higher production values for the fastener industry in Taiwan. With the efforts of all fastener manufacturers in Taiwan, although the export volume of fastener products has decreased, the output value has not dropped drastically, and in the face of the fierce competition from countries such as China for the rise of low-priced fasteners, it shows that the fastener industry in Taiwan still maintains a considerable degree of competitive edge by virtue of transformation and upgrade.

There are a total of about 1,500 fastener factories in Gangshan District of Kaohsiung, Luzhu District of Kaohsiung, and Tainan, with more than 30,000 workers, accounting for the world's top shipment volume. I dug the statistics on total export value, total export weight and unit price of fastener products (7318: steel screws, bolts, nuts, automotive screws, screw eyes, rivets, cross pins, cotter pins, washers and similar products) in Taiwan over the 20-year period from 2003 to 2022, shown in Table 1. In 2003, compared with 2022, the export value increased 1.4 times, but the export value increased 3.6 times, and the unit price also increased 2.6 times as shown in Figure 2

Of course, in addition to the efforts by Taiwan fastener industry, Taiwan government has also provided great assistance in the transformation of the fastener industry in Taiwan. In October 1963, Taiwan government, UN Special Fund and Taiwan International Labor Office jointly established Metal Industry Development Center in Kaohsiung City. The Center was renamed to "Metal Industry Research and Development Center" (MIRDC) in May 1993 to engage in the research, development and promotion of production and management

Table 1.

20-years Export Statistics of Taiwan Fastener Industry (2003 ~ 2022)

Taiwan’s Fastener (7318) Export from 2003 to 2022

technologies required by the metal and related industries. In 2008, MIRDC promoted the "Training Program for the Development of Full Manufacturing Technology for Dental Implants" to bring Taiwan fasteners into the high-value medical industry. In 2016, the Industrial Development Bureau of Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs launched a three-year "NICE Upgrade and Transformation Program for the Screw and Nut Industry" to continuously optimize the structure of the screw and nut industry in order to expand higher value-added products and increase export unit prices. In 2022, the Industrial Development Bureau provided subsidies to assist manufacturers in implementing carbon emission inventories in order to help the fastener industry prepare for CBAM, which will require imported products to declare their carbon content. The fastener industry in Taiwan has experienced various challenges in the global economy and trade with the collaboration between industry, government, and research organizations. The manufacturers have always stuck to innovation and research, and pursued transformation and upgrade. Their products have changed from general hardware parts to high-end market applications such as automotive, railway, aviation, and medical, which has led to the growth and strength of Taiwan fastener industry. The overall industrial structure has become stronger, allowing Taiwan to retain its reputation as the "Kingdom of Fasteners".

Figure 1.

Figure 2.

Taiwan’s Fastener (7318) Export Unit Price from 2003 to 2022 (USD/KG)

The Future of Taiwan Fastener Industry in a Fast-changing World

The rapid changes in the world in the 21st century has dictated that operators of Taiwan fastener industry must observe more carefully the impact of external environment changes on business operations. In 2018, former U.S. president Trump began imposing 25% additional tariffs on Chinese goods exported to the U.S. Although the U.S. changed regime 5 years later, the trade war was continuing. The trade war between China and the U.S. was a big favor for Taiwanese fasteners, and the quantity of Taiwanese fasteners exported to the U.S. continued to rise due to orders redirected out of China. In February 2020, the COVID impacted all industries and changed the global industrial economy. The disruption of China's supply and logistics chains forced the global international trade to change overnight. China's strict Zero COVID policy and city lockdown caused a global supply chain disruption. In response to the inflation caused by the global government's cash handouts during the pandemic, steel prices rose, making some Taiwanese business owners suffer. The appreciation of New Taiwan Dollar has also made Taiwanese business owners swallow the bitter fruit of exchange rate differences. However, overall, the export value and weight of Taiwanese fasteners were not affected much during the pandemic. Plus, order redirection overshadowed other negative factors.

In February 2022, the EU announced an anti-dumping duty on screws imported from China, and Taiwan fastener industry embraced another business opportunity of orders redirected from European customers. This business opportunity also mitigates the negative impact of the February 24, 2022 invasion into Ukraine by Russian President Putin, which became the largest military confrontation in Europe since World War II. The 21st century has seen a shift in industrial structure and economic restructuring due to the trade war between China and the U.S., the pandemic, the city lockdown in China, and the war between Russia and Ukraine.

The war between Russia and Ukraine and the trade confrontation between China and the U.S. have turned into mutual resistance on industries and economies, resulting in the division of the world into two camps: the communist and non-communist. As geopolitics increasingly affects global free trade, multinational companies and sourcing companies around the world are alarmed that investment deployment only considering production in regions with lower costs or higher profits can no longer be the same as before. Considering "flexible supply chain", the world trade will be different in terms of industry, i.e. the quadrant that the industry belongs to being different. The procurement strategy will also be based on "flexible supply chain" (refer to the article " The Era of Flexible Supply Chain is Coming - the Impact on Taiwan Fastener Industry " in the 200th issue of Fastener World Magazine). Taiwan fastener industry must carefully consider the impact of overseas customers on future orders.

In global perspective, in June 2023 the U.S. didn’t cease raising interest rates. The U.S. sanctions against Chinese technology was only on the rise. The war between Russia and Ukraine was yet to subside. The Chinese economy was weak. The global economic growth rate was under tremendous pressure. Taiwan fastener industry with export as its lifeline, was facing unprecedented challenges, especially the influence of "geopolitics" cannot be overlooked. Since August 2022, when former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi led a delegation to Taiwan, China's Army has been conducting drills in many waters around Taiwan, and PRC air force jets have been frequently flying across the center line of the Strait into Taiwan's airspace. Cross-strait relations have become more tense than ever. Under this circumstance, the export-oriented Taiwan industry has been facing the most critical situation in its history. With TSMC’s announcement to set up factories in the U.S. and AUO Corporation's announcement of indefinite postponement of its 8.5th-generation panel plant, Taiwan companies are facing five shortages and one uncertainty, including shortage of water, electricity, land, labor and talent, and uncertainty in geopolitical conflicts. Under the deteriorating geopolitical situation across the Taiwan Strait, will European and American manufacturers consider redirecting some orders to other regions under the factor of "flexible supply chain" to ensure that the supply chain will not be broken due to the Taiwan Strait issue? This must be the primary concern for Taiwan fastener industry.

In the past, business operation was to pursue the highest efficiency, but with the rise of geopolitical influence, it is necessary to improve "corporate flexibility" in order to face the challenges. The ability to build up flexibility must be to do environment analysis, risk assessment, and increase risk response capability on a regular basis, such as establishing overseas factory locations, training multi-skill employees, and planning different logistics routes. Companies must establish diversified countermeasures, train organizational agility, and strengthen interaction with the inner and outer environment.

In late 2022, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) warned that the growth of the world economy will continue to shrink in 2023. The three major economies, the United States, Europe, and China, are all in the stagnation of growth. Taiwan fastener industry is highly export-oriented and relies heavily on the international market. Taiwan not getting into international trade agreements such as RCEP is a negative factor for its fastener industry. The continuous chaos in the world economy and the deterioration of geopolitics are both great challenges for Taiwan fastener industry, and of course, they are also the greatest driving force for the transformation and upgrade of production patterns. Through 70 years of thick and thin, Taiwan fastener industry has been upholding the spirit of diligence, unrelenting, overcoming difficulties and striving forward, creating miracles under the efforts of Taiwanese manufacturers, government, researchers and all fastener practitioners. I expect the whole fastener industry in Taiwan to keep working hard to create the next 70 years of prosperity.

Article by: Dr. Wayne Sung Copyright owned by Fastener World

Taiwan Fastener Chronicle H1 2014 in Review

Oct.: Fong Prean Invented Hardwood Fastening Savior MS Reamer

MS Reamer owns multiple patents. Its 3-in-1 head design is applicable to over 90% of hand tools in the market, and its thread design can eliminate burrs.

2013

Oct.

Nov. 15: SRC’s 30th Anniversary and New Factory Launch

SRC rented a land spanning 34,000sqm from Jiashan government (in China) and invested in a new and modern production base.

Nov.

Dec.

Nov. : Joiner Fastener Launched a New Plant

Nov. 20: TFTA Workshop with Participation of 135 Professionals

The workshop invited speakers including General Manager Tony Chen from Ming Shyr Metals International (Topic: Theories and Practices of Fastener Heat Treatment), General Manager Steven Fang of Fascon Corporation (Topic: Details about Threads), and Engineer Bozheng Wang of Taiwan CSC (Topic: Wire Rods for Fasteners).

Dec. 3: TFTA Members Visited Yulon Motor & San Yung Electric

Former TFTA chairman Jim C.N. Chen led TFTA members for the visit, who were amazed by both the companies’ professional techniques and business scale.

The monthly capacity of both the existing and new plants added up to 500 tons.

Dec. 6: 6th TFTA Chairman Succession Ceremony

President Bill Chen was elected as the new TFTA Chairman. The image shows the 5th former Chairman Jim C.N. Chen (left), former Chairman and Co-founder James Su (middle), succeeding Chairman Bill Chen (right).

Dec. 16: Tong Ming on Taiwan Stock Exchange

Wen-Ling Ko (Tong Ming spokesperson in Taiwan) stated that the transparent and well-established regulations in Taiwan as well as the stimulus policies have driven Tong Ming to go on Taiwan Stock Exchange for sustainable business operation.

Dec. 20: The 16th & 3rd Round of TIFI Annual Representatives Assembly

The assembly invited TFTA chairman Bill Chen and many guests and members, occupying all the seats. The assembly was hosted by TIFI chairman Joe Chen and many proposals were approved, demonstrating the solidarity of the fastener industry.

Feb. 21: 2014 TFTA New Year Gala Meeting

175 members throughout Taiwan gathered to celebrate at Taichung Windsor Hotel under the calling of TFTA and TFTA Central Chapter. The members’ participation made the gala the largest event for the fastener industry in central Taiwan.

Dec. 18: TFTA Central Dist. Chapter Succession Ceremony

Johnson Chang was appointed as the new president.

Mar. : Lung Yi Machinery- AIM System: Space-saving Storage, Intelligent Logistics, Computer-Aided Pickling System

Vertically integrated AIMS successfully saves the space taken by residual materials and products by 30-50%. Digital picking system (DPS) results in more accurate control of material inventory.

Mar. : SUPERIOR QUALITY FASTENER, Annual Growth up 10%

German Audi, U.S. GM and Chrysler all approve the quality made in Taiwan and recognize Superior Quality as a qualified trader.

Mar. : Lai Chin Chin Offers WorldRenowned Quality

Lai Chin Chin, cooperating closely with customers from North America, Europe, Latin America, and Australia, achieved a growth rate of over 10% and completed the annual capacity of 1,100 tons at the value of USD 5 million.

Mar. : JOHN CHEN Releases New Screws

President John Chen proudly demonstrated the newly developed John Tek after 16 years of R&D. He made an advance announcement that by 2014 the company could achieve a 30% increase in annual revenue.

Mar. 14: Fastenal & FASTCO Supplier Awards Banquet

140 guests attended and 10 awards were presented. The suppliers were scored on quality, lead time, price competitiveness, order fulfillment and overall service. The Best Supplier award winner was Super Cheng Industrial.

Mar. 27: TFTA Training Session

To help members enrich industry knowledge, director Ahung Chen was in discussion with universities on short-term creditearning courses for master degree. His aim was to ramp up the intellectual and technical level within Taiwan fastener industry.

Apr. 13: Five Regions Fastener Association Conference

Joe Chen, chairman of TIFI, the organizer of the conference, set the topic as “Status Report of Fastener Industry in Each Region”, lectured by representatives of associations from Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, Japan, and S. Korea. Joe spoke on the topic “The Past and Future of Taiwan Fastener Industry”.

Mar. 28: Chun Zu Released CBF-164UL Bolt Former

The machine is able to produce thin and long 18-inch bolts. Unlike other traditional thin and long bolts prone to deformation or defection, the machine overcomes this issue.

Apr.

Nov.

Nov. 21-22: Fastener World Exhibited at Fastener Fair Turkey

The show's grand launch attracted 135 exhibitors from 16 nations, among which were 66 exhibitors from Turkey, and 21 from Italy.

Mar.

Mar. 4-6: Fastener World Exhibited at KievBuild

Mar. 9-12: Fastener World Exhibited at International Hardware Fair Cologne

Apr. 2-4: Fastener World Exhibited at DesignBUlLD Melbourne

Mar. 12-13: Fastener

World Took Taiwanese Exhibitors to Fastener Fair Mexico

21 Taiwanese exhibitors booked the show through Fastener World and were the focus of attention at the show.

Apr. 7-11: Fastener World Exhibited at Wire Düsseldorf

Apr. 8-10: Fastener World Took Taiwanese Exhibitors to Fastener Fair Hannover

31 Taiwanese exhibitors booked the show through Fastener World and displayed their products and service.

Fundamentals of Hardness Testing of Fasteners

Although it is likely that few individuals outside of the fastener industry possess an appreciation for fasteners, the reality is that fasteners, even ones we consider “simple” are sophisticated engineered devices. Since fasteners are so crucial in holding everything together, it is important that suppliers and users can verify that the fastener will perform the way that it is intended. To this end, fasteners that have been heat treated to meet desired performance requirements must be examined to verify that they meet the standards and will fulfill these specific requirements. One of the more important verification methods is hardness testing.

This article will explore the fundamentals of hardness testing of fasteners. In addition to gaining insight into what hardness is and why it is a useful test, we will explore the different methods that may be employed to conduct hardness testing.

What is Hardness?

Hardness is a measure of a material’s resistance to plastic deformation when subjected to indentation. It is also commonly considered as the ability to resist scratching, abrasion, cutting, or deformation when a load is applied. The harder a material is the better it can resist these sorts of damage. Hardness is often a function of multiple variables and other material properties such as ductility, stiffness, strength, toughness, and viscoelasticity. In simpler terms, however, we generally recognize materials as being hard or soft, and when it comes to fasteners, we often associate the degree of hardness with the presence or absence of manufacturing processes such as annealing, quench and tempering, or case hardening. We recognize, for example, that high strength, quench and tempered parts are harder than lower strength, annealed parts.

Why do we measure hardness?

With many materials, and specifically steels, there is a good correlation between hardness and tensile strength. Strength, as a general concept, is defined as the material’s capacity to handle applied stress. Tensile strength is the maximum amount of tensile stress a material can withstand before it breaks. Although hardness testing does not as accurately correlate to yield strength and ductility, hardness testing conducted properly and found within specification becomes a good predictor that the other material properties will also be in specification.

When verifying that a fastener can meet its minimum tensile strength requirements, it is best to conduct a tensile test. However, with parts that are too small to be properly fixtured in a tensile test frame, a hardness test becomes the only reliable predictor of the fastener’s tensile strength ability. Thus, hardness testing on fasteners is quite common, as so many fasteners are simply not able to be tensile tested. Additionally, hardness testing is fast and efficient, so that it can be successfully deployed as an in-process monitoring step. In other words, fastener manufacturers and their heat-treating vendors may employ hardness testing during the process to ensure that parts are staying within specification.

Hardness Testing Types

Hardness testing is conducted by pushing a uniquely shaped indenter with a very well-defined load into the part. These test methods fall into two broad categories: macro hardness testing and microhardness testing. Macro hardness tests are conducted with large indenters and loads and can usually be seen by the naked eye. On the other hand the use of light loads and small indenters results in

an indentation invisible to the naked eye. These are referred to as micro hardness tests.

For general purpose testing, macro hardness testing is what is usually employed. There are multiple different test methods including Rockwell B and C, Macro Vickers, and Brinell that commonly get employed on fasteners. In these tests, the size of the indenter and the load applied are large and leave a mark that is visible to the eye.

When delicate or very thin sections need testing, micro hardness testing is employed. This includes hardness tests on the outer case sections of surface hardened fasteners. Often these case-hardened sections are very thin, and the loads exerted by a macro hardness test would be too severe and the indenter would pierce through the area of interest resulting in errant or false measurements. Micro hardness is also often deployed during experimental research where multiple groupings of test sites within small areas are desired. Micro hardness testers use light loads, and the indentations must be analyzed under magnification.

Hardness Testing Methods

In addition to these two distinct categories of hardness testing, there are multiple different methods. Each method usually has its own unique scale associated with the obtained test results. Although there are conversion tables between these different methods, it is not always exact and anytime that one method must be converted to a different method, care should be taken.

Rockwell Hardness:

In North America, the most common hardness testing method for fasteners is the Rockwell test. Although Rockwell scales run from A to G, steel fasteners are evaluated exclusively with either the Rockwell B scale or Rockwell C scale. The Rockwell B Scale uses a 1/16” diameter round ball and 100 kgf load. The Rockwell C Scale uses a 120° Diamond Cone and 150kgf load. Obviously the heavier the load the more capable it will be to indent harder parts and thus, obtain an accurate hardness measurement. For this reason, the Rockwell B scale may be used on annealed and un-heat-treated parts while the Rockwell C scale is used on heat treated parts.

In the Rockwell test a small preload referred to as the “minor load” is applied to the indenter. The minor load is about 10kgf, a small percentage of the total applied load and effectively seats the tip of the indenter into the part. The remaining part of the load, the “major load”, is then applied. Rockwell measures depth and takes just the distance between the depths of the minor and major load and applies an algorithm to convert the depth reading into a value along the appropriate Rockwell scale.

Rockwell also has an N Scale. This is the Superficial Hardness Scale, meaning that it is specifically for measuring case hardened parts. There are three N variations: 15N, 30N, and 45N. Each uses a diamond cone indenter and a 3kgf minor load. Thus, the major load for 15N is 12kgf, for 30N is 27kgf, and for 45N is 42kgf.

Vickers Hardness Method:

Outside of North America, the Vickers method tends to be favored for hardness testing of fasteners. This method is considered to be the “easiest” of the testing methods because the calculations are independent of the size of the indenter. In fact, the same pyramidal diamond indenter can be used for all materials regardless of the hardness of the part. The Vickers test results in a Vickers Pyramid Number (HV). This test is most often performed with light loads as a micro hardness test, but larger loads are possible for the macro test. Loads can range between 1gf and 100kgf.

Whereas the Rockwell test determines the depth of the indentation, the Vickers test measures the length of the diagonals obtained by the indentation. These are measured and applied to an equation to determine the HV value.

Knoop Hardness Method:

The Knoop hardness method is a microhardness test utilizing a pyramidal diamond indenter and 100gf load. With its indenter geometry, the Knoop test is perhaps the best method for very brittle or thin layer testing. Like the Vickers test the indentation is measured, but unlike Vickers which uses both diagonals, the Knoop calculation uses only the long side of the indentation.

Brinnell Test Method:

Although the least common method for fasteners, the Brinnell method is sometimes still employed. The Brinnell indenter is a very large 10mm diameter ball and 3000kgf load. The resulting indentation is measured and applied to an equation to generate the resulting Brinnell Number.

Fastener Testing

Hardness testing is most commonly employed as an in-process method during the heat treating of parts or as a final inspection tool at either the heat treating, fastener manufacturing, or end user. The processes that trigger a hardness check include heat treatments such as a strengthening quench and temper, case hardening, or annealing process. Quench and tempered parts will normally receive a Rockwell C or macro-Vickers check. Case hardened fasteners require a microhardness method, such as Knoop or micro-Vickers. Annealed fasteners usually receive a Rockwell B test.

In Summary

Hardness testing is an important and everyday test that all fastener suppliers employ. Regardless of the chosen method, they are all governed by consensus standard organization specifications, in particular ASTM and ISO methods. Although the test methods are common and straight forward, they must be conducted closely with these standard methods to assure the accuracy and quality of the test.

Ming Tang Centrifugal Feeder The Global

Market Share Winner

Contact: Sam Chang, Deputy General Manager of Sales

Email: sam@mingtang.com.tw

Patented Machine Design Touching Clients’ Heart

Starting as a screw forming machines manufacturer in 1979, Ming Tang (Wen Yang) Machinery has been at the forefront of R&D for nearly 45 years. They have a 2,480-square-meter plant in Hwa Ya Technology Park in Taoyuan City of Taiwan, where they continuously improve and supply 1-die 2-punch and 2-die 2-punch screw headers, 2-die 4-punch and 3-die 6-punch screw parts forming machines, open die headers, high-speed automatic threading machines, and screw washer assembling machines, all of which have received

Ming Tang is committed to improving machine stability and operational efficiency. Their die punching device, ejection device and toggle device are all patented and designed to significantly reduce machine failures. They also have a well-designed after-sales service and have established standard parts inventory management to allow customers to replace parts in a timely manner. This has Their great breakthrough in structural design is the improvement of all wearable parts and the design of quick-assembly and quick-disassembly devices. Instead of sending machines back to the their factory for repair, you only need to inform them of the parts to be replaced, and new parts can be shipped directly from the standard parts warehouse, allowing the user to easily replace by themselves, saving time and cost.

Centrifugal Feeder: Noise Reduction, No Damage to Product Surface, Saving the Most Energy

In addition to gaining a stable market share through the aforementioned machines, they crossed their bounds and developed centrifugal feeders that have made a name for themselves in the global market and at international trade shows. Conventional feeders using vibratory plates are prone to many problems, including noise and damage to product surface. Ming Tang's feeder replaces vibratory feeding with centrifugal alignment, which not only significantly reduces noise, but also prevents the coating from peeling off the products or from damaging the plating layer.

This centrifugal structure is made of stainless steel, which is highly resistant to wear and rust. Compared with the traditional vibratory plate whose coating often peels off after one year of use, the surface of Ming Tang centrifugal feeders is coated with 10mm thick PU oil which is durable. The delicate design of the centrifugal structure also includes a removable inner tray, which can be easily removed by maintenance personnel to clean up chips and oil stains, saving time and effort. The list of Ming Tang centrifugal feeder’s feature doesn’t just stop here. It consumes only one-tenth the power of a conventional vibratory plates. It is suitable for long screws, and the feed speed can be adjusted via a frequency converter.

Ming Tang said they are continuously improving and upgrading centrifugal feeders and will launch larger and more powerful models in the future, raising expectation in the market.

Gwo Lian Celebrates 55th Years of Prosperity and Expects to Reach a New Height Innovation,

to Achieve Fastener Industry Upgrade and ESG-Driven Mission

Gwo Lian Machinery is not big but critical. From its workers to engineers, they all adhere to the spirit of “becoming a respected craftsman" in the future, which is also an internal declaration of Gwo Lian. Furthermore, the expectation for people to change their stereotype of the machinery industry and consider it “a driver of industry upgrade and value innovation” is also one of the reasons that the 55th anniversary event was given. Gwo Lian would especially like to thank all supporters on its road to success and hope that they can continue to give support and become Gwo Lian’s strong backup and motivation to go forward.

The event had shown quite active participation since the registration was open. The number of participants rose from the initial 550 to more than 700, not to mention those calling to confirm participation after the registration had been closed. The total number of guests from Taipei, other cities, and abroad was even over 300. “I’d like to express my sincere apology to all if anything was not arranged properly during the event and thank you all for your tolerance and understanding,” said President Ahung Chen.

The guests attending the event included political/commercial/ academic/art/hospital leaders, public interest groups, fasteners/ electronics/aerospace/hi-tech and other industries’ presidents, Business Weekly CEO, MISA, principals, professors, EMBA societies, and many other prominent figures (such as DirectorGeneral Tai-Hsiang Liao of Kaohsiung Economic Development Bureau, TIFI Vice Chairman Ann Hong and Supervisory Board Convener Simon Lin, TFTA Founder James Su and Honorary Former Chairmen Kosky Yen/Jim C.N. Chen/William Liao, Yieh Hsing Enterprise President Lin-Maw Wu, and MIRDC Chairman Ren-Yi Lin), clearly demonstrating Gwo Lian’s long-term dedication to the industries and President Chen’s wide and good personal connections.

“I’d attribute the perfect closure of the event to all guests on that day,” Gwo Lian President Chen said humbly.

On the same day, Gwo Lian and PwC Taiwan signed a cooperation agreement for the implementation of German SAP ERP system, looking forward to a higher level of corporate governance and digital transformation. President Chen, who humbly dares not to be called a Buddhist but is a follower of Buddhism, has been trained by his parents (Gwo Lian's founders) since he was a child and had an education for spiritual purification like Nalandabodhi Asia, as a result, he also donated NT$1.18 million to a Buddhist Institute in Hsinchu. In addition, Afnor Taiwan (one of the founders of ISO) also presented to President Chen a certificate to certify his excellent strategic management in sustainability.

Gwo Lian President Chen awarded with AFNOR certificate as Sustainability Manager

Taiwanese artist BaiYu presents his painting to Gwo Lian President as the 55th anniversary gift

Lectures by Chief Sustainability Officer K.D. Tseng of WPG Holdings (revenue: TWD 700 billion), Executive Director Chaney Ho of Advantech (world’s top player in industrial computers with TWD 300 billion market value), and QST International President Mark Wu: • New Ways to Acquire Knowledge • Past, Present and Future of EVs • Exploring the Genes Behind Long-Standing Japanese Enterprises and the Path to the Century for Taiwanese Enterprises

From left to right: Excelsior Healthcare Group (Asia) President and GM Fang-Ming Fan, CB Ceratizit Chairman Wan-Lung Liao, Gem-Year Industrial President Yonglong Cai, Zhejiang Jiashan Taiwanese Company Association Honorary Chairman Chi-Li Chu, Gwo Lian President Chen’s wife Yuan-Yuan Chang

PwC President Jacky Lu signs collaborative contract with Gwo Lian Machinery on adopting German SAP ERP system President Chen, his mother and wife

With the 55th anniversary thanksgiving dinner, Gwo Lian hopes to do something special, not to sing the praises of something special, but to do something special with a normal heart and follow the altruistic spirit of the founders to give back to customers, colleagues and related supply chains. In addition to allowing industry professionals to get together, Gwo Lian also hopes to facilitate cross-industry exchanges and use this banquet to throw a brick to attract jade and call more attendees to support people and groups loving this land and making contributions, such as Lifeline Association of Kaohsiung, Bremer String Orchestra, MISA, Afnor, Artist BaiYu, Koji Pottery Artist Jung Wu, Artist Hsi-Chun Lin, Southern Taiwan Pops Orchestra Head Shu-Yuan Tsai and Director-General Jung-Hsiu Lu, etc.

Chief Sustainability Officer K.D. Tseng of WPG Holdings said: “It's not easy for a company established 55 years ago to grow continuously. President Chen has been very serious and active in learning lots of things that should be learned for the sustainable development of a company. I believe his leadership will definitely make Gwo Lian stronger, and I wish Gwo Lian 100 years of prosperity.”

Executive Director Chaney Ho of Advantech said:

“According to statistics, there are about 25,320 companies with a history of a century in Japan, while there are only 200500 in Taiwan. Currently, there are about 1,000 companies in Taiwan with a history of more than 55 years, and Gwo Lian is among them. President Chen is my first student in MISA. I wish continuous success to Gwo Lian celebrating its 55th anniversary under President Chen’s leadership, and I hope that Gwo Lian will take 100 years as the goal of sustainable development in the future.”

Minister of Labor Ming-Chun Hsu said: “In the past few years, the global environment has faced great changes, but Gwo Lian sees the future trend and begins developing smart machinery to solve labor shortages, activates digital transformation, and strives to research and develop more environmentally-friendly but also efficient and ESG-driven machine models. Gwo Lian is definitely the best example of achieving a win-win in economic development and environmental protection.”

Kaohsiung City Deputy Mayor Da-Sheng Luo said: “Gwo Lian emphasizes sustainable innovation and has continued to

grow its sales and profits despite the epidemic. Quality has always been its highest guiding principle, which has enabled it to create world-class machinery products. In addition, Gwo Lian focuses on the integration of proactive technology and has invested over NT$200 million in Luchubased Kaohsiung Science Park to develop related digital wire drawing machines. In terms of ESG and net zero carbon emission, Gwo Lian has also developed related machines to minimize the damage of the industry to the environment, hoping to give the next generation a clean environment and fulfill the business mission. In the face of future challenges, Gwo Lian insists on high quality, high added value, and high value created by net zero to turn crises into business opportunities.”

Tong Ming President Ching Tung Tsai said: “I have been friends with President Chen and his father for over 40 years and have learned a lot from the legacy they have passed down through the generations. There must be a reason for the 55 years of prosperity of the company. President Chen's filial piety is also one of the reasons for the success of Gwo Lian’s business. President Chen’s thanks to his mother on his knees in a crowd of over 700 people is also an important spirit in Chinese traditional culture. In addition, President Chen is very good at learning and sharing, combining business and practice, and constantly realizing the value of life, which is not only worthy of recognition and blessing, but also can lead Gwo Lian to innovation and sustainable development.”

TAMI Chairman Larry Wei said: “President Chen is really serious about his business and continues to follow the spirit of ESG by introducing smart manufacturing in accordance with the requirements of the times. I wish that Gwo Lian will go up to the next level, its quality and profit will get better, and its machinery will be more advanced and can be marketed all over the world.”

President Chen said: “On behalf of Gwo Lian, I’d like to thank you all for accompanying us for the past 55 years. Because of you, we can have this humble achievement. Looking ahead, we see that the international supply chain has undergone radical changes. Gwo Lian recognizes the ESG concept and has a strong sense of mission for the development of Taiwan industries. Therefore, we regard environmental protection, social responsibility and corporate governance as our core values and invest more resources in them. We hope we can go to the next level and move towards the goal of being an outstanding 100-year enterprise, and make more contributions to Taiwan’s industry.”

Gwo Lian has thus far received international certifications from D&B, ISO9001, and CE. Its self-developed wire processing methods and machinery have also acquired patents in Taiwan, Japan, and EU. Its products have been successfully marketed in nearly 50 countries and have received high customer satisfaction and reviews industry-wide.

Gwo Lian Machinery: +886-7-9515858

Gwo Lian Jia Xing: +86-573-84182518

Email: sales.dept@gwolian.com

by Gang Hao Chang, vice editor in chief of Fastener World Copyright

owned by Fastener World

Minister of Labor Ming-Chun Hsu

Taiwan Association of Machinery Industry (TAMI) Chairman Larry Wei

President Ching Tung Tsai of Tong Ming Enterprise

Kaohisung City Deputy Mayor Da-Sheng Luo

President Chen donates NT$1.18 million to a Buddhist Tower in Taiwan during the 55th anniversary event, hoping that Buddhism will be passed down in Taiwan for 3,000 years

Gwo Lian is passionate about social welfare

The performance of Bremer String Orchestra

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https://www.fastener-world.com/user_email.php?uid=1312

https://www.fastener-world.com/user_email.php?uid=1312