Fastener + Fixing Magazine #116

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In this issue‌ Industry insight Route to Fastener Innovation Battery powered installation tools fastenerandfixing.com | Issue 116 March 2019



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CONTENTS INDUSTRY NEWS

10-38

COVER STORY

40-41

Financial reports, acquisitions and trade duty news

Breathing fasteners and fixings

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

116-138

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

140-162

MANAGEMENT + SYSTEMS

163-172

APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

174-186

PRODUCTS + TOOLS

188-213

Face2Face: Jahangir Doongaji, member of the Hilti executive board High performance solutions from Rawlplug

FACE2FACE 42-48 Mark Belton, CEO, Trifast plc

INSIGHT 50-72 As the guard changes Precision Technology Supplies – perpetual growth Synonymous with quality

Atotech’s global TechCenter network Transparency and efficiency in production Teudeloff celebrates 25th anniversary

Booming trend in fastener and fixing packaging

ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 74-106 Who will be Fastener Technology Innovator 2019?

EXHIBITIONS

Events Calendar wire® and Tube® 2020: Bigger and better Fastener Fair USA announces welcome party NHS to feature more interactive experiences

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FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

Nord-Lock steel washers promise highest salt spray resistance on the market Converting residual gas into electricity Bringing cable management to life

Battery installation tools Rivets + rivet nuts



EDITORIAL Part of the Mack Brooks Group Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts, AL3 4ET, UK

Will Lowry, editor, Fastener + Fixing Magazine

Like waiting for a bus… You wait for years for your biggest ever issue and then you have two within six months… Welcome to the Fastener Fair Stuttgart show edition, which at 214 pages is in danger of denting your desk.

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ne of our main features, and a big attraction at Fastener Fair Stuttgart, is the Route to Fastener Innovation Competition – which once again will be sponsored by Fastener + Fixing Magazine. The competition is a first-hand opportunity to assess new products and services that exhibitors have brought to the market since the last show. To find out more read the special feature and remember to take a note of the stand numbers or look out for the distinctive Route to Fastener Innovation Competition 2019 logo on participants’ stands during the show. The winners will be announced on the second day at 14:00, when there will be a special presentation on the Fastener + Fixing Magazine stand (hall 5, stand 2614). Our Cover Story for March is from Deputy Editor Claire Aldridge and focuses on the significant investment over the last two years from pgb-Europe, as the full service supplier of fasteners, fixings, components, and hand tools, looks to develop new opportunities in the market. We also have exclusive face-to-face interviews with Mark Belton, CEO at Trifast Plc – as he celebrates 20 years at the group better known in the industry as TR Fastenings; David Dean and Dr Daniel Bossard reflect on how Bossard Group has developed and grown over the last 15 years, as well as the planned succession in April with Daniel taking over from David as CEO; plus Jahangir Doongaji, member of the Hilti executive board, (pictured) explores Hilti Group’s strategy in relation to the Internet of Things. To add to this, I visited HECO Schrauben to see its production capabilities and how it is becoming a leading screw manufacturer in Europe; I went to Trebur in Germany to find out more about Atotech’s global network of TechCenters; and I met with Precision Technology Supplies to chat about what has been a very busy three years for the UK-based distributor, and how it continues to experience perpetual growth. There are also a lot of other market insights and industry news articles that will help keep you entertained whether at the show, in the air, or sat in your office.

Say hello

If you do see one of the Fastener + Fixing Magazine team walking around the show (wearing our stylish badges) or walk past our stand (hall 5, stand 2614), please let us know what is happening at your company. We really do want to talk to you, so please feel free to stop us.

Looking after the environment

Finally, for those of you that receive the printed version of the magazine, you may have noticed that the wrapper was slightly different for this issue. That is because we have changed to a biodegradable plastic that will help stop the wrappers going to landfill and help save the environment. This is in addition to our magazine being PEFC certified, meaning it is produced from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources.

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FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

Tel: +44 (0) 1727 814 400 Fax: +44 (0) 1727 831 033 www.fastenerandfixing.com Publishing Director Jamie Mitchell jamie.mitchell@fastenerandfixing.com Executive Editor Phil Matten phil.matten@fastenerandfixing.com Editor Will Lowry will.lowry@fastenerandfixing.com Deputy Editor Claire Aldridge claire.aldridge@fastenerandfixing.com Sales Manager Mac Rahman mac.rahman@fastenerandfixing.com Business Development Manager – Italy Emiliano Pagliaroli emiliano.pagliaroli@fastenerandfixing.com Business Development Manager – Europe Peter Makin peter.makin@fastenerandfixing.com Business Development Manager – DACH Thomas Schwarz thomas.schwarz@fastenerandfixing.com Production & Design Manager Lee Duskwick lee.duskwick@fastenerandfixing.com Digital Content Assistant Grant Rebecca grant.rebecca@fastenerandfixing.com Find us online: @fastenerfixing FastenerandFixingMagazine fastener---fixing-magazine Fastener and Fixing Fastener + Fixing Magazine is a dedicated, trade–only publication which is circulated freely throughout the European trade. Disclaimer The Publisher cannot be held responsible or, in any way, liable for errors or omissions, during input or printing of any material supplied or contained herein although the utmost care is taken to ensure that information contained is accurate and up to date. The Publisher also cannot be held liable for any claims made by advertisers or in contributions from individuals or companies submitted for inclusion within this publication. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Editor or Fastener Fairs Ltd. Copyright Entire contents copyright © Fastener Fairs Limited 2019. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior permission of the publisher.

Annual subscription (6 issues) to non–trade and outside EU is €160.00


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INDUSTRY NEWS

NORMA reports 7.7% organic growth in 2018 Based on preliminary figures, NORMA Group sales increased 6.6% to €1.084 billion in 2018. Organic sales increased 7.7%, but currency effects reduced sales growth by 2.8%. Adjusted EBITA margin fell to 16%, from the previous year readings above 17%.

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trong sales growth in Engineered Joining Technology (EJT) in the Americas and Asia-Pacific regions contributed to the increase, driven by good order volumes in the US commercial vehicle and agricultural machinery markets, as well as in the Chinese automotive industry. The Distribution Services (DS) division also showed solid growth, particularly due to the positive development of NDS’s water business and the acquisitions of Fengfan and Kimplas, the latter contributing 1.6% to growth. “2018 was a challenging but successful year for NORMA Group,” said Bernd Kleinhens, CEO of NORMA Group. “Although the tense situation on the raw material markets had an impact on earnings and margins, our strong organic growth shows that our products are increasingly in demand worldwide.” NORMA increased Group sales in the fourth quarter 2018 by 5.3% to €267 million (Q4 2017: €253.6 million). As expected, organic growth declined at the end of 2018 to 1.7%. Acquisitions contributed 2.4% and positive currency effects 1.2% to Group sales growth in the quarter. 2018 adjusted EBITA decreased 0.8% year-on-year to €173.2 million (2017: €174.5 million). Adjusted EBITA margin was 16% (2017: 17.2%), with the difficult situation on the international raw material markets the main reason for the decline. NORMA identified higher alloy surcharges, force majeure in important plastic components, and punitive US steel tariffs, having a negative impact. Increasing shortage of materials and the strong sales growth temporarily led to variable special costs in purchasing, production and logistics. NORMA Group started a ‘rightsizing’ programme in the fourth quarter 2018, intended to help optimise the production landscape, which has grown rapidly as a result of acquisitions, among other developments, and organisational structures, but also to further harmonise processes and systems worldwide. The programme extends across all divisions and regions to consistently develop the business model further to meet the requirements of future strategic growth areas such as electromobility and water management. The programme is expected to cost €13 million – €15 million over two years, resulting in a positive earnings contribution of around €10 million – €15 million annually from 2021 on. In fiscal 2018, €2.2 million in costs were incurred and reflected in adjusted EBITA, together with €1.2 million acquisition related costs and €0.6 million integration costs. All figures are preliminary, unaudited and not yet approved by the NORMA supervisory board.

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Würth 2018 sales up 7.1% to record €13.6 billion

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Würth Group has announced preliminary results for 2018, with sales increasing 7.1% year-on-year (+8.6% in local currency) to a record €13.6 billion.

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ürth says all its individual regions reported successful development again in the past year. The Electronics and Electrical Wholesale segments showed above-average growth rates. E-business sales in 2018 reached €2.4 billion, growing at above-average compared to Group sales. According to preliminary calculations, the Group’s operating result is between €860 million and €880 million, also a new record and a clear increase over the 2017 figure of €780 million. Robert Friedmann, chairman of the central managing board of the Würth Group, commented: “We are highly pleased about this positive result. It provides proof of the fact that thanks to our strategies and services we are still an important partner for our customers in trade and industry.” The number of employees at Würth Group increased by 2,921 from 74,159 to 77,080 in 2018. In Germany, the number of employees reached 23,772, a year-on-year increase of 5.1%. The Group currently has 33,218 sales force employees. Würth expects sales growth in the moderate single-digit range as well as a proportionately rising operating result in 2019. “Due to an economic slowdown, the year 2019 will certainly become a bigger challenge than 2018. Nevertheless, there is still no cause for concern, as the company is based on stable ground,” says Friedmann about the expectations for the new business year. Würth will release its full annual financial statement on 8 th May 2019.



INDUSTRY NEWS

Bufab reports record sales, third year running For the third consecutive year Bufab has reported record full year sales – up 18% year-on-year. Operating and net profits were also at new record levels.

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ufab net sales in 2018 increased 18% to SEK 3.786 billion (€360.7 million), of which 8% was organic growth. Operating profit (EBITA) increased to SEK 367 million (2017: SEK 311 million), corresponding to an operating margin of 9.7%, unchanged from 2017. Fourth quarter net sales rose 17% (4% organic). Operating margin for the quarter eased to 8.5% (Q4 2017: 8.7%). President and CEO, Jörgen Rosengren, said Q4 growth was primarily due to strong contributions from acquisitions, but also exchange rates and market shares. “We saw no signs of a substantial slowdown in the economy, but did note increased caution among our customers. This drove a certain postponement of volumes until after the end of the year, which, on the other hand, led to a healthy start for sales in January 2019.” Rosengren said Q4 gross margin was considerably weaker than Q4 2017 and Q3 2018, entirely due to performance in Sweden, where the business had been under pressure throughout the year from high purchasing prices and a weak Swedish Krona. Lower margins in a newly acquired subsidiary also impacted Q4 results. The consolidated gross margin remained unchanged in 2018. “We have implemented major price increases for our customers in both

segments, thereby fully offsetting the higher purchasing prices,” Rosengren noted. “At the end of 2018, the increases in the price of raw materials levelled off. The prerequisites are thus favourable for purchasing savings to be made this year.” Rosengren continued: “We captured market shares throughout 2018. This was not a matter of a few random successes, but of many hundreds of new customers across all of our markets. Such a broad increase would not have been possible without the focus in prior years on recruitment, personal development, processes and tools in our sales organisation. We also significantly increased the pace of our purchasing by appointing a person in Group management in charge of this and, under her leadership, invested in our organisation, tools and processes.” Rosengren noted the acquisition of Rudhäll Industri in late 2018 and reiterated: “We have our sights set on other acquisitions.” He concluded: “Ahead of 2019, there is unusually large macro-economic uncertainty. However, regardless of how the market performs, we will continue to work towards our goal: To be the strongest company in our industry in 2020.”

Record 2018 for Bossard Bossard Group has posted record results for the 2018 financial year. Sales rose by 10.8% to CHF 871.1 million (€766.7 million) with all market regions contributing to this significant growth.

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ourth quarter business in America and Asia grew by double-digits, exceeding Bossard’s expectations. However, demand in the European markets slowed down sharply. Sales in Europe grew 4.2% in the quarter to CHF 114.9 million (+4.9% in local currency). Group sales for the quarter increased 7.9% to CHF 212.1 million. Bossard largely credited “the overall solid performance” to its steadily growing range of products and services. Bossard says it faced a more challenging economic environment in the second half of 2018, particularly in European markets. Full year sales for the region grew 10.8% to a record high of CHF 493 million. Bossard describes the reasons for slower growth in Europe as manifold: “We continue to see some customers operating at high capacity, which tends to flatten the potential for above-average growth. Another factor was a certain basis effect. The basis for comparison – the fourth quarter of 2017 – was already at a high-level. Finally, the purchasing managers’ indices (PMI) in Europe also indicate a normalisation of demand.”

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There was “new momentum” in Bossard’s American business with demand for its products and services remaining strong in the second half. Fourth quarter sales rose 13% to CHF 61 million (+14% in local currency). For the full year 2018, sales in America increased 9.4% (in local currency: +10.1%) to CHF 240.9 million. This “gratifying growth” was broad-based. Bossard’s cooperation with the largest US electric vehicle manufacturer contributed positively to demand acceleration in the second half as production of its third model series increased significantly. In Asia the Group also posted record full year sales, up 13.4% (+12.5% in local currency to CHF 137.2 million). Bossard noted it was able to sustain this momentum from October through to December. In contrast to general market trends in the region, fourth quarter sales increased 12.4% (local currency: +13.5%) to CHF 36.2 million.


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INDUSTRY NEWS

Fastener segment leads SFS growth SFS Group reported “solid sales growth” of 6.5% in 2018, taking its consolidated sales total to CHF 1.739 billion (€1.54 billion). Operating profit increased to CHF 243 million, corresponding to 14% of net sales.

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FS says “this attractive sales development was broadly based in terms of end markets and geographies”, with “a solid and balanced organic growth rate of 5%” in the Group’s core business activities, reflecting the strength of SFS’s customer specific solutions for selected niche markets. While broadly based, growth was led by the Fastening Systems segment, which reported full year sales of CHF 437.1 million, an increase of 13.8% over 2017. SFS says the segment strengthened its competitive position and captured increased share as a result of its innovative products – new product launches were a strong sales driver, and the segment enjoyed a ‘good market environment’. Organic growth was 5.6% with the consolidation of HECO into the Group contributing 5.8% of reported sales growth.

Engineered Component sales were CHF 976 million, up 4.4%; Distribution & Logistics sales were CHF 334.5 million, up 3.6%. The growth rate slowed in the second half 2018, which SFS says, can be traced to comparison against strong sales growth in the previous year and “an unexpectedly sharp, temporary decline in demand during the fourth quarter, especially from customers in the automotive and electronics industry”. Currency effects had a positive effect of 1.4% on reported sales. Switzerland accounted for 20.4% of total sales, with the rest of Europe contributing 41.1%. Sales in the Americas represented 17.7% and Asia 20.6%. Africa and Australia accounted for 0.2%. The preliminary results indicated an increase in operating profit by 23% (+4.2% on like for like basis) to CHF 243 million. Full results will be published in March 2019.

Bulten 2018 sales up 9.7% but Q4 hit by uncertainty Bulten released provisional results showing 2018 net sales increased by 9.7% to SEK 3.132 billion. However, fourth quarter sales growth weakened in the face of automotive uncertainly, increasing 1% in the same period 2017.

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ull year operating earnings (EBIT) were steady year‑on‑year at SEK 210 million; however, operating margin softened to 6.7% from 7.4%. Earnings after tax were down at SEK 143 million (2017: SEK 159 million). Bulten’s order book increased 2.8% to SEK 3.098 billion. Cash flow from operating activities increased to SEK 125 million (2017: SEK 58 million). During Quarter 4 Bulten signed two full service provider contracts for the driveline in electric cars, together worth around €7 million annually, starting during 2020. A previously announced contract for a new vehicle programme starting in 2019 is expected to be worth around €13 million annually. Retiring president and CEO, Tommy Andersson, commented: “Vehicle production fell during the quarter due to greater uncertainty on the market. The increased volatility in demand for vehicles is partly an effect of new environmental tax regulations in several European countries, as well as uncertainty regarding BREXIT.” “Bulten continues to win new business and take market shares despite weak market conditions. Net sales increased by 1%, and we are thereby compensating to some degree for the weak market development by start-up of new contracts. Order bookings during the quarter were in-line with sales, but down 12% compared to the previous year’s strong order bookings thanks to the start of new contracts and model shifts.” “Operating earnings during the quarter were down on the previous year, primarily due to reduced volume development in the latter part of the quarter. The reduction in volume came

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with very little advance notice. Adaptations to production have begun but will take some time. Earnings were also negatively impacted by currency effects and the beginning of restructuring in China. Raw material prices stabilised during the quarter, although at a continued high-level.” “Our financial position is strong and we are continuing with the strategic development and adaptation of our operation in-line with the communicated plan. Demand for hybrids and electric cars is increasing, and this is a favourable development for Bulten.” [SEK 1,000 approximately €95.43 at Interbank]


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INDUSTRY NEWS

Reed Exhibitions closes acquisition of Mack Brooks Exhibitions Reed Exhibitions, a division of RELX, has announced the completion of its acquisition of Mack Brooks Exhibitions – adding an outstanding line-up of industry leading brands to its global portfolio.

Hilti reports 10.7% sales growth in 2018 Hilti Group reported that its 2018 full year sales increased 10.7% to CHF 5.6 billion. Factoring out acquisition effects, sales increased 9.7% year‑on-year.

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ack Brooks Exhibitions was established in 1965 and features more than 30 business-to-business events in 14 countries, including Germany and the United Kingdom, serving nine industry sectors. Flagship brands include EuroBLECH (sheet metal working technology); inter airport (airport infrastructure and technology); Fastener Fair (fastener and fixing technology); Chemspec (fine and speciality chemicals); RAILTEX (rail infrastructure and technology); ICE Europe (paper, film and foil converting); CCE (manufacturing and converting corrugated and cartonboard); PSE Europe (plastics) and InPrint (print technology for industrial manufacturing). A broad programme of geo-cloning has successfully positioned many of these brands and related adjacencies outside Germany and the United Kingdom to include a presence today in countries including France, Italy, the United States, Mexico, China, Singapore, Thailand, India and Turkey. The acquisition expands Reed Exhibitions‘ global portfolio delivering value for stakeholders, including customers and staff. Nicola Hamann will continue as managing director of Mack Brooks, and the company will continue to be based in St Albans, UK. “Mack Brooks is an excellent fit with Reed Exhibitions’ existing portfolio and the combination of the two businesses will deliver value for all stakeholders, including customers and staff,” said Chet Burchett, CEO of Reed Exhibitions. Reed Exhibitions is a leading global events organiser, with more than 500 events in 30 countries. With 38 fully staffed offices, Reed Exhibitions serves 43 industry sectors with trade and consumer events. It is part of RELX, a global provider of information and analytics for professional and business customers across industries.

KYOCERA SENCO acquires Van Aerden Group KYOCERA SENCO Industrial Tools Inc is to acquire 100% ownership of Van Aerden Group B.V, a European-based distributor and manufacturer of pneumatic tools and fasteners.

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hrough the acquisition, KYOCERA SENCO Industrial Tools Inc (KSIT) – a subsidiary of Kyocera Corporation – will expand its global pneumatic tool and fastener business. Effective 1st March 2019, Van Aerden Group B.V will be renamed KYOCERA AERFAST Europe B.V. With the manufacturing and sales assets of pneumatic tools and fasteners that this acquisition brings, KSIT aims to strengthen its business in Europe.

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EO Christoph Loos commented: “2018 was an important year for the Hilti Group. We made substantial investments into innovations, market reach and our infrastructure, laying the foundation for long-term profitable growth. With double-digit sales growth, we have reached our goal. However, due to the continuing global trade tensions, we see a reduction in growth dynamic.” In Europe, Hilti achieved strong sales growth at 10.6% in local currencies. The only exception was the United Kingdom, where “BREXIT is creating uncertainties in the construction industry”. Hilti also recorded double-digit growth in North America (+10.4%), while Latin America continued an “upward swing” with an increase of 8.6%. Asia-Pacific sales grew 7%. “In spite of the challenges in countries like Turkey, Russia and Saudi Arabia” the eastern Europe/Middle East/Africa region increased sales by 9.3%. [CHF 100 = €88.52 at Interbank on 25.01.19]


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INDUSTRY NEWS

Seeing how it’s made With the invaluable support of Optimas Manufacturing, the British & Irish Association of Fastener Distributors (BIAFD) delivered another successful ‘Introduction to Fastener Manufacturing’ day.

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hirty delegates from BIAFD member companies, visited the Optimas Manufacturing facility in Droitwich Spa, UK, in February. The day comprised of a one hour seminar on fastener forming processes, presented by BIAFD director, Phil Matten; an introduction to Optimas Manufacturing and its processes by Sales Manager Zak Tolley; and a guided tour of the production operation.

Several of the team from Phil Holden Fasteners Ltd (PHF), owned by current BIAFD chairman Guy Stanhope, have already attended. “For independent, mid-sized fastener distributors like PHF, these BIAFD events are invaluable and are just one of a number of reasons our membership is a no-brainer,” says Guy. “There is simply no more effective way for our people to get their heads around what it takes to manufacture the products they are selling each day, and I am absolutely sure that makes a positive difference for PHF.” Significantly, for more than three-quarters of the delegates, this was their first opportunity to see fastener manufacturing. “Previous groups have rated seeing the actual processes and having them explained by experienced production managers, as one of the biggest values of the day,” said Phil. “BIAFD began arranging these tours some five years ago, working also with the British Steel Wire Rod Mill in Scunthorpe. The aim is to help distribution personnel, who in their normal role will not see the product made, recognise the complexity of engineering skill and technology behind what can sometimes be written off as ‘only a screw’.”

BIAFD wishes to express its appreciation to Optimas Manufacturing and its team for the generous support in making this event possible. BIAFD’s next member event is a technical seminar, already expecting more than 50 attendees, focusing on hydrogen embrittlement and the implications of the recently published revision to EN ISO 4042, the electroplated coating system for fasteners standard. For more on BIAFD membership visit www.biafd.org or email info@biafd.org.uk

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INDUSTRY NEWS

VIPA opens fully automated third warehouse

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VIPA has completed its third high-bay automated warehouse, increasing its storage capacity by an additional 30,000 pallet spaces to an eye watering 150,000 spaces. VIPA now has space for over 65,000 different products – including different sizes, coatings and materials – available from stock.

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IPA SpA moved to its current head office in Rolo, Italy, in 2001, and began with one high-bay warehouse, which is 135m long and 35m high – including five automated aisles. By 2007 the company expanded with a second high-bay warehouse, with an extra seven automated aisles – with all twelve aisles working in synchronisation. The third warehouse, built to the same dimensions as the other two warehouses, has increased VIPA’s storage capacity by 25% and is also synchronised. However, the third warehouse is fully automated. “The addition of the third warehouse means that we will have access to a totally automated 24 hour system,” mentions VIPA. “The machines will be operational round the clock. At night the machines will work on optimising the goods locations; not only on the basis of actual orders, but also on probability of potential ones.”

To go alongside the three warehouses, VIPA also has a fully equipped laboratory, which can conduct a wide variety of quality tests to guarantee the products according to certified and known norms. “We are also certified as a producer for structural bolts according to EN 15048:2007 standards. Our SB bolts are supplied with CE Marking in accordance with the construction standards 89-106 and 109 EN-1 and 2 – part of the category of high strength bolts.” Another important range available from VIPA, is its construction hex head bolts in HV kits, according to EN 14399, available in plain and HDG, from M12 to M36. VIPA supplies both trade and industry and in addition to its companies in Italy, it has five branches in Spain, France, Germany, China and Czech Republic.

Anders Nyström takes up the position as president and CEO of Bulten

Bossard expands aerospace competence

As Bulten AB announced on 20th June 2018, Anders Nyström has been appointed new president and CEO of Bulten. He has now assumed his position and takes over from Tommy Andersson, who retires after nineteen successful years at Bulten.

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lf Liljedahl, chairman of the board at Bulten, commented: “The board is very pleased with the recruitment of Anders Nyström. He will contribute with a broad experience from the automotive industry combined with strong leadership. We also want to thank Tommy Andersson who very successfully has led Bulten to a leading position in the market for fasteners.” Anders Nyström is a mechanical engineer with supplementary education in leadership and economics. He has extensive international experience from the automotive industry and has previously held several leading positions within, amongst others, Kongsberg Automotive, Volvo Cars and Ford Motor Company. Anders joins Bulten from IAC Group where he has been vice-president commercial since 2018. “Bulten is an extremely well managed company that I look forward to continuing to develop together with the management. We have an extremely strong foundation to build on,” said Anders Nyström, president and CEO of Bulten AB.

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Bossard Group has received AS 9120 aerospace certification in Italy. This official approval is the prerequisite for acting as a supplier in the aerospace industry. Bossard is already certified and active in the aerospace industry in the USA, France and Switzerland.

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n pursuing its acquisition strategy in recent years, Bossard has built-up its aerospace expertise. The certification received in Italy now, is an important step for Bossard in its efforts to expand its activity in this technologically demanding sector. The Italian aerospace sector is fourth in Europe and plays therefore a significant role. The Group says it intends to take suitable steps to steadily strengthen its involvement in the aerospace sector. Aerospace is a demanding business segment. Drawing on proven competence and strength of innovation in fastening technology, Bossard is confident it can meet the special requirements of customers in the aerospace industry at all levels.



INDUSTRY NEWS

€1 million investment in UK production

European Springs & Pressings, supported by its parent company Lesjöfors, has invested €1 million in a new spring coiling machine – the first of its kind in the UK.

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hroughout 2018, the Lesjöfors Group made continuous investments in both production premises, new machinery and technology, throughout the group and this has continued into 2019. The latest investment for the growing UK market is a unique state of the art coiling machine. The WAFIOS FUL166 is one of the latest large-scale, high-end spring coiling machines to come out of the German-based powerhouse and European Springs & Pressings is one of only two manufacturers in the world to have one.

Equipped for the future

Enhancing European Springs & Pressings spring portfolio, which now includes CNC coiling of wire diameters from 0.03mm to 17mm, this new investment continues to secure the company’s position in that market. Michael Gibbs, managing director of European Springs & Pressings, says: “Investing in this quality of machinery is testament to our dedication of being a world-class spring manufacturer. Lesjöfors, our parent company, is committed to investing in the UK and has consistently recognised the forward thinking nature of our management and the unrivalled quality of our production and lean manufacturing processes.” “We have just opened a second factory in Cornwall, dividing our automotive and industrial specialisms across two locations. This recent expenditure is the next chapter of an ongoing improvement initiative, building our capabilities in-line with demand, providing us with enhancements to maintain our and Lesjöfors’ global leading position.”

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John Murley from WAFIOS with Michael Gibbs MD of ESP in front of the UK’s first WAFIOS FUL166

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John Murley, UK sales manager for WAFIOS AG, concludes: “This level of machinery investment is unprecedented for most. European Springs & Pressings and Lesjöfors’ engineering excellence has secured their heritage and will continue to unlock growth opportunities as they harness technology allowing them to remain competitive and deliver the highest quality products. Our machines are unparalleled. The state of the art control technology offers interactivity at a level that is similar to an iPad and the machines are designed with maximum productivity and quality in mind.” www.lesjoforsab.com


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PERSPECTIVE by Phil Matten, executive editor, Fastener + Fixing Magazine

Phil Matten reflects on some of the key topics currently involving the fastener industry Some moons ago I had a German boss, who faced with some arcane procedural requirement in Great Britain, would often as not say, “why would anyone want to do that?”.

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ith 29 th March looming fast, there’s no way of evading the elephant in the room, so it looks like it’s time to face up to the ‘B’ word. I heard Boris Johnson on British radio’s flagship morning programme a couple of weeks ago say: “People around the world are going ‘Wow – they have made this incredible decision to go global’,”. Veteran BBC foreign correspondent, John Simpson – the man incidentally probably more than any other qualified to lay claim to having made a career of ‘being there’ – riposted on Twitter: “This is certainly not my experience. From the USA to China to India to South Africa, people I’m hearing from think we’re opting for imperial nostalgia.” Initially, my German boss used to say, “why would anyone want to do that?” with genuine puzzlement. Eventually, however, I began to sense rather less puzzlement and rather more pity. That’s been my experience over recent months – whenever, as it always does, BREXIT comes up during a visit to a fastener company somewhere in the world. I’m genuinely no nearer being able to answer the question, but I do have the overwhelming sense of the UK being internationally written off as eccentrically self-destructive. I suspect, to quote T.S. Eliot, 29 th March will close ‘not with a bang but a whimper’. Incidentally, it’s not insignificant that the poem is titled: ‘The Hollow Men’ and draws strongly on allusions to Dante’s first circle of Hell – Limbo.

24 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

In fact, it’s probably the words of a completely different breed of poet, the very British Rudyard Kipling, that are likely to prove most apposite. “If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster, And treat those two impostors just the same.” The odds are it certainly won’t be as great as many hope, nor will it be as dire as many fear. Businesses will, as they always do, find a way through, despite the turmoil generated by the seemingly inexhaustible, self-obsession of our politicians. That’s certainly the attitude I glean from the fastener industry – not just in relation to BREXIT, but also the many other geo‑political tensions around the world right now. That said, all the indications are these are sapping the energy from the global economy and that is beginning to reflect in the performance of fastener companies. So, it would be great to see some clarity and basis for renewed confidence by the time we all meet in Stuttgart. We work in a resilient, durable industry that always finds a way – but it is enough to have to face the inevitable cycles of world business without our politicians constantly heaping additional challenges. See you in an aisle or on a stand somewhen between 19 th and st 21 March.


1.1156


NORTH AMERICAN NEWS by John Wolz, editor, GlobalFastenerNews.com

IFI’s 10th edition includes 40 standards updates

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The 10th edition of the IFI Book of Fastener Standards already has half a dozen updates of standards, providing additional reasons for the Industrial Fastener Institute’s online edition.

he latest print edition includes 40 updated or added standards since the 9 th edition published in 2014, IFI director of engineeing and technology Salim Brahimi said. The digital library provides access to 92 of the most commonly used fastener standards for inch and non-ISO metric standards issued by ASTM, ASME, SAE and the IFI. The traditional paper ‘hardcover’ 1,236 page book is US$600. The online edition is US$575 a year for one user. The book has historically been updated every four or five years, Brahimi explained. The online edition “is always kept up to date”, he said. “As a new standard gets published, within a few days it is updated in the online collection.”

Prime for the online edition are companies with multiple users. “Companies that need multiple books for a single location or books for multiple locations get a much better deal, and several of those have purchased the online subscription,” Brahimi told FIN. The text is a compilation of ASTM, ASME and SAE standards, which are updated by those organizations. IFI standards “are updated as needed”, Brahimi said. Brahimi said the hardcover edition “used to take approximately two intense years of preparation. Joe Greenslade (former IFI director of engineering & technology) reduced it to less than one year”. For the next update, the IFI is “working to be able to complete and publish a revision within three months”. For information contact the IFI. Email: techinfo@indfast.org

Industrial Fastener stocks show strength in 2018 After two consecutive years of double-digit growth, the FIN Fastener Stock Index contracted in 2018, hampered by volatility that dominated the markets, making 2018 the worst year for stocks in a decade.

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he FINdex declined 7.1% during the year, compared to a 7% drop by an index of related industrial stocks. US stocks had their worst December since the Great Depression, according to Yahoo Finance. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 9.7%, the Nasdaq Composite dropped 10.4%, and the S&P 500 declined 10%.

During 2018, industrial fastener stocks replaced aerospace stocks as the dominant performer. FINdex stocks achieving growth during the year included: Dorman Products Inc (up 47.2%); Bisco Industries (up 87.2%); Grainger (up 19.5%); Lawson Products Inc (up 27.7%); TriMas (up 2%); and Wesco Aircraft (up 6.8%). During 2018, multiple FINdex stocks saw declines of 20% or more, including Arconic (down 38.1%); Carpenter Technology (down 30%); ITW (down 24%) MSC Industrial (down 20.4%); Park Ohio (down 33.2%); STANLEY Black & Decker (down 29.4%); and Tree Island Steel (down 20.5%). During the final quarter of the year, the FINdex mirrored the markets, showing its biggest dive during the year. During Q4, the FINdex dropped 15.6%, compared to a 13.4% decline by an index of related industrial stocks.

26 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

FINdex stocks losing 20% or more in value during Q4 included Carpenter Technology (down 39.6%); Grainger (down 21%); Park Ohio (down 20%); Simpson Mfg (down 25.3%); and Wesco Aircraft (down 29.5%). The FINdex rose 9.2% in the third quarter after declining 0.4% in the previous quarter. An index of related industrial stocks increased 9.8% in Q3. Quarterly gains were achieved by a broad cross-section of fastener companies. During the first six months of 2018, both the FINdex and an index of related industrial stocks were essentially unchanged. The FINdex achieved marginal growth of 0.3% in the opening quarter of 2018, compared to an 11.7% loss by an index of related industrial stocks. During 2017 the FINdex rose 20.2%, boosted by aerospace fastener company gains. In 2016, the FINdex rose 20%, compared to an 11.1% increase by an index of related industrial stocks.


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NORTH AMERICAN NEWS

Jergen’s ASG expands in Ireland

ASG, a division of specialty fastener manufacturer Jergens Inc, has opened a warehouse in Limerick, Ireland.

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SG will now ship directly from this location to surrounding European countries. With inventory being housed locally, customers will see many benefits, including reduced freight costs, duty-free shipments, and improved lead time, the company stated. ASG first made its presence in Europe by exhibiting at the Motek International Trade Fair in Stuttgart, Germany, in 2013. Shortly after, Federico Roma joined ASG as the European representative. “I am pleased by the growing investment and ongoing human effort ASG put in place in order to help me grow my territory, supporting end

users and distributors who believe in our competences and the solutions we bring to the market,” Roma stated. ASG specialises in precision assembly equipment for a range of industries, from light electronics to heavy industrial applications. Founded in 1942, Cleveland, OH‑based Jergens has grown into four separate operating divisions providing superior engineered solutions, key locking fasteners and industrial products in North America and throughout the world.

Arconic reports revenue increase Arconic reported revenue increased 8% to US$14 billion in 2018, which included organic revenue growth of 7%. Net income soared to US$642 million, or US$1.30 per share, versus net loss of US$74 million, or US$0.28 per share, in 2017. The news comes weeks after Arconic broke off talks with a buyer for a US$10 billion deal to acquire the aerospace fastener distributor.

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EO John Plant stated: “We did not receive a proposal for a full‑company transaction that we believe would be in the best interests of Arconic’s shareholders and other stakeholders.” Arconic, which includes Alcoa’s former US$1.8 billion Fastening Systems and Rings business, has been mulling possible takeovers since last summer when Apollo and two other companies expressed interest in the company.

28 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

Arconic will continue with the previously announced sale process for its building and construction systems business, Plant said. Q4 revenue rose 6% to US$3.5 billion (€3 billion), while net income grew to US$218 million, or US$0.44 per share, versus net loss of US$727 million, or US$1.51 per share, in Q4 of 2017. Arconic has commenced plans to reduce operating costs by approximately US$200 million on an annual run-rate basis. The portfolio will be separated into Engineered Products & Forgings and Global Rolled Products, with a spin-off of one of the businesses. The company will also consider the sale of businesses that do not best fit into Engineered Products & Forgings or Global Rolled Products. Arconic closed on the sale of the idled Texarkana, TX, rolling mill for approximately US$300 million in cash, plus additional contingent consideration of up to US$50 million. The company also closed on the sale of the Eger, Hungary, forgings business. During Q4, Engineered Products and Solutions (EP&S) revenue grew 8% to US$1.6 billion. Organic revenue was up 9%, driven by volume growth in aerospace engines and defence. Segment operating profit slipped 3.8% to US$220 million, as unfavourable product mix and manufacturing challenges in the Engineered Structures business, including the now resolved forging press outage in the Cleveland facility, were partially offset by volume growth across all business units. Segment operating margin was 13.6%, down 170 basis points year over year.



RUSSIAN + CIS NEWS Alexander Ostashov, editor, Fastener, Adhesives, Tools and…Magazine www.fastinfo.ru

fischer plans further breakthrough in 2019

fischer sales in Russia increased by 16% in 2018, meeting its budgeted expectations. It also increased its regional presence, expanding the geographic area it supplies. Now it is planning further breakthroughs for 2019.

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ischer opened a new warehouse, scaled and equipped to satisfy the needs of its growing number of partners and customers in Russia. It also introduced a new IT system, and its Russian fischer Academy now provides education and training on an ongoing basis. “The challenge for 2019 will be to improve our work with the consumer and bring new products to the market for further growth. We are preparing for a breakthrough in a number of areas in the coming year, and I am sure that all our partners and customers will appreciate it,” said Andrey Egorov, general director of fischer Russia.

VSMPO-AVISMA to expand titanium wire production The VSMPO-AVISMA Corporation has prepared an investment plan for the next year, forming the basis for a new eight year programme. The most ambitious and costly element is a complete reconstruction of pipe profile and titanium production.

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he general director of the corporation, Mikhail Voevodin, said: “For the past ten years, we have been focused on stamping and flat rolled products, and shop No. 3 has been somewhat deprived of investment. Until now, investments have been irrational and inefficient. It requires a complete reconstruction. What we have conceived for Shop No 3, truly represents a grand project! An almost completely new workshop will be built within three years. We have only to decide whether it will receive a new life in the old walls or whether there will be a new building with a new rolling mill. This will be a truly comprehensive solution and a guarantee of a successful future for our bar production, which we intend to expand with wire production, both for fasteners and medical products.”

30 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

The company has expanded the list of projects on which its products are used. Eight World Cup stadiums – in Kaliningrad, Sochi, Kazan, Saransk, Rostov, Moscow, and St. Petersburg – were constructed using fischer solutions. The company has also expanded cooperation with retail chains so that in 2018, the DIY segment contributed around 17% of the company’s turnover. The Russian regulatory framework for construction fasteners is currently under active development. fischer specialists are involved in the process both independently and as a member of the Russian Fastener Union.

New technical director for MMK-METIZ MMK Group carried out a number of changes in its management team. Alexander Mukhin was appointed director of OJSC MMK-METIZ Magnitogorsk Hardware Calibration Plant by decision of the MMK board of directors.

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rom 1 st December 2018 he began work in his new position. Prior to that, Alexander Mukhin was head of the technical department of PJSC MMK. The former head of the company, Oleg Shiryaev, has been appointed deputy general director for production at Magnitogorsk Iron and Steel Works.

Bidding for BelZAN called off Interfax reported that the bidding for the sale of 99.23% shares of Belebeevsky Avtonormal Plant (BelZAN), owned by the bankrupt AvtoVAZagregat, was called off in December due to the lack of buyers.

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he shares are pledged to RT-Capital, a subsidiary of Rostec. Its initial bid price was set at 554.9 million rubles (€7.47 million). Belebeevsky plant Avtonormal is a manufacturer of fasteners for the automotive industry. AvtoVAZagregat (Togliatti) was declared bankrupt in August 2016. RT-Capital gained control in BelZAN after Novikombank had assigned the collateral to it. Last year the press service of Rostec reported that the corporation intends to restructure the debt of the Belebei plant in the amount of 2 billion rubles and to invest about 1.8 billion rubles in its development.


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RUSSIAN + CIS NEWS Record electronic torque wrench order INSTRUM-RAND received its largest ever order for the manufacture of its KD series electronic torque wrenches.

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he order is the largest in the entire history of electronic measuring instruments supply by the enterprise. A distinctive feature of this batch of KD series wrenches is the ability to work with different types and lengths of connectors, without impacting the accuracy of measurement.

‘SPIC’ for new wheeled vehicles The Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation, GAZ Group and the Government of the Nizhny Novgorod Region have signed a special investment contract (SPIC) for production development of new wheeled vehicles.

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PIC ‘Creation of industrial production of new wheeled vehicles and modernisation of existing wheeled vehicles on the basis of production enterprises of GAZ Group’ has been signed for ten years – until 2028. Within the SPIC, more than 20 billion rubles are planned for investment in the development of high-tech production of new vehicles – technology with a high‑level of localisation and export potential. In particular, it is planned to organise the production of new light commercial vehicle models and trucks and to localise production of a modern light diesel engine for LCVs. The development of new models is to be based on the future requirements of the Russian, and export, markets and in accordance with modern trends in the technological development of the international automotive industry.

Bettermann to further expand in Lipetsk According to the press service of Lipetsk SEZ, the German company Bettermann plans to expand production in the special economic zone in the Lipetsk Region.

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n the first quarter 2019, Lipetsk says, Betterman will complete construction of the second stage of its plant at the production and logistics centre in the Special Economic Zone. By the end of the year it will commence design of a third enterprise for production of cable systems. Investments in this third stage are expected to amount to 7 – 8 billion rubles, bringing Betterman’s total investment in production in the SEZ to 17 billion rubles. Completion of construction of the third production line is planned by end 2020. Lipetsk SEZ says, for the production of the third stage, the investor asked for 17 hectares to be allocated, taking Betterman’s total project area to 25 hectares. The company bought about 4 hectares of land at Lipetsk SEZ in 2014 and invested 2 billion rubles to launch an electrical products plant in autumn 2016. Later, an additional hot dip galvanising shop and production and logistics centre were built for 3.4 billion rubles.

Mariya Valiakhmetova, editor in chief, Metiz Magazine, Ukraine

Largest migration to SAP HEC cloud in C&E Europe Metinvest Group has migrated its SAP system to a cloud platform, becoming the first SAP HANA Enterprise Cloud (SAP HEC) user in Ukraine. The data migration has been recognised as the largest in central and eastern Europe. Metinvest now has 138 systems and more than 18,000 users working in the cloud.

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he Group began to migrate from its own storage systems to the cloud service in 2017. SAP’s HEC technology will help to significantly reduce IT costs, increase the processing speed of large data arrays and improve the security of services. SAP’s reliable platform and applications will support Metinvest’s operations, forming the basis for future innovative projects. The process included updating the SAP software to the latest version and migrating to the new SAP HANA database. Overall, 21 core business systems were migrated over 18 months without business interruptions (including the enterprise resource planning,

32 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

transportation management, procurement, human resources, payroll, budgeting, finance and other systems). The project was managed by a dedicated team from SAP, Metinvest as the business customer and Metinvest Digital as the centre of IT expertise. The project team is now working to adopt a systematic approach for supporting systems hosted on the SAP HEC platform and flexible change management. Metinvest has been SAP’s largest client in Ukraine since 2012. The Group uses 21 SAP systems, which automate its business processes in practically all areas of its operations.


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ASIAN NEWS Sundram Fasteners Q4 profit up 21%

Taiwan fastener exports increase in 2018

Sundram Fasteners, part of the TVS Group, reported net standalone profit for the quarter ending 31st December 2018 (its third quarter) increased 21.3% to 1.1 billion rupees.

According to the Taiwan Industrial Fasteners Institute, Taiwan increased fastener exports by 5% in 2018, to around 1.67 million tonnes.

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hird quarter sales were 10.2 billion rupees, an increase of 19.7% over the same period previous fiscal year. Exports for the quarter increased to 3.7 billion rupees, up 29.7%. EBITDA increased 28.5% to 1.9 billion rupees. [INR 1 million approx equal to €12,200 at Interbank]

‘Largest bolt former in the world’ South Korea’s Hyodong Machine has developed the HBP-6220UL, which it says is the world’s largest forming machine with 2,200 tonnes of forging load.

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he machine weighs 420 tonnes, twice the weight of Hyodong’ HBP-650 model, which has a forging load of 1,500 tonnes. The new machine is a six-station bolt former, with a cut-off diameter of 55mm and cut off length from 100mm – 450mm. Hyodong has released two YouTube videos, one a time-lapse sequence of the machine’s construction; the second the machine in operation in South Korea.

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xport value increased to US$ 4.85 billion (€4.29 billion), an increase of more than 12%. Then average cost per kilogram also increase by around 7% to US$2.88/kg. Taiwan’s largest export destination is the United States, taking more than 41% of Taiwan’s fasteners.

King Sun Technology delivers 5,000 hours salt spray Expanding its business in power station development since 2016, Taiwan’s King Sun identified that solar modules ran the risk of corrosion and started to research new materials and ways to improve the engineering.

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astener World Magazine has announced that the company has now rolled out screws and bolts that remain free from red rust through more than 5,000 hours of salt spray, as opposed to an average 1,000 hour salt spray test. That translates to over 50 years of product life. Additionally, the screws and bolts survived over 100 cycles of acid rain test with no appearance of red rust, a five times higher level than Taiwan’s solar panel standard. King Sun’s anti-loosening fasteners have passed NASA’s NAS 3350 test. They have strong resistance against wind and vibration without the use of washers, vinyl adhesives or coatings. Despite a minor cost rise, the company was the first to adopt new materials for the structures of solar modules, which can benefit clients by reducing structural risks and maintenance costs, allowing modules to generate power consistently for 20 years.

Sheh Fung to promote timber screw at Stuttgart

Brazilian dam disaster hits iron ore prices

Fastener World reports that the focal point of the Fastener Fair stand of Sheh Fung Screws Co Ltd will be a timber screw with a European Technical Assessment.

The tailings dam in Brumadinho, owned by Brazil’s largest iron ore minor, burst on 25th January 2019. 166 people died, and some 200 are still missing.

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heh Fung general manager Kent Chen said the company’s active pursuit of achieving the ETA certificate, began with encouragement from a European customer. However, Chen already recognised the opportunity to extend to new areas of opportunity while at Fastener Fair Stuttgart in 2017. The product will also be available in customised specifications in the future. Main current markets for Sheh Fung are Europe and the USA, representing around 70% of exports. However, sales are not evenly distributed between the two markets and Sheh Fung hopes the certification will help increase its share in the European market.

34 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

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razilian authorities and Vale have suspended operations in other mines and police investigations have so far led to eight arrests of both Vale employees and those of TÜV SÜD, which reportedly certified the stability of the dam. Latest estimates suggest the actions could take around 40MMT of iron ore out of the global market. It is doubtful higher iron ore prices will sustain – Australian miners are expected to respond to demand. However, in the short-term prices have spiked to around US$90/tonne. Chinese steel mills are already under heavy margin pressure at current market prices, which implies ore prices will need to moderate.


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BRAZILIAN NEWS Sérgio Milatias, editor, Revista do Parafuso, www.revistadoparafuso.com.br

Brazil fastener imports increase to US$648 million

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Brazil ended 2018 having exported and imported more than in 2017, with clear signals the growth trend will continue during 2019.

uring January to December 2018 Brazil exported more than 25,000 tonnes of fasteners (bolts, screws, nuts and others similar made by steel or iron) – 4.5% more than 2017. Exports generated a total revenue of almost US$150 million, with an average price of US$5.826 per kg. The ten main destinations were the USA (28%), Argentina (19%), Paraguay (7.8%), Germany (5.7%), France (5.5%), India (4.6%), Mexico (3.6%), Bolivia (2.8%), Chile (2.4%) and the UK (2.3%). On the other side, the volume of fasteners bought by Brazilian companies increased 9.9% to 123,000 tonnes. The average price was US$5.26 per kg, totalling revenue of US$648.74 million (€574.2 million). The ten main supplying countries were China (19%), the USA (14%), Japan (12%), Germany (12%), Italy (8.6), Taiwan (6%), France (5.7%), South Korea (3.9%), Thailand (2.2%) and Spain (2.2%).

Brazilian automotive production grew 6.7% in 2018 After bitter and hard times, the production results of autos and motorcycles celebrated improvement, with high hopes the growth trend will continue in 2019. January already achieved an increase of 10.2%.

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n 2017 Brazil produced 2,699 million units (include passenger cars, commercial vehicles, trucks and buses). That figure jumped to 2,880 million in 2018, an increase of 6.7% – despite losing part of May and June due to a truck driver strike and 2018 elections. Motorcycle production closed 2017 with 882,876 units, but jumped to 1,036 million in 2018, a rise of almost 17.5%. Forecasts are for further growth of more than 6% during 2019 – good news for fastener and other supply chains.

However, the fastener import statistics do not take into account assembled products, such as auto parts, machines and others, in which bolts, screws and nuts are already installed. So total fastener imports are significantly higher than the statistics indicate. Brazil has an annual GDP around US$1.9 billion among its 27 states. Representing around 32% of GDP, São Paulo state received 48% of all fastener imports. Next was Santa Catarina (4.2% of GDP), receiving 14% of fastener imports; followed by Amazonas 9.85% (1.12%*); Paraná 9.62% (6%*); Rio Grande do Sul 4.25% (6.4%*); Rio de Janeiro 4% (11%*); Minas Gerais 3.35% (11%*); Bahia 2.59% (4.1%*); Pernambuco 1.39% (2.7%*); and Goiás 0.85% (2.9%*). Regarding exports, the 10 Brazilian states with the greatest share were: São Paulo 42.5%; Rio de Janeiro 21%; Santa Catarina 19.3%, Rio Grande do Sul 7.28%; Minas Gerais 4.34%; Paraná 2.2%; Bahia 0.3%; Ceará 0.29% (2.2%*) Amazonas, 0.046% and Pará, 0.0064% (2.2%*). *Fastener percentage

Walsywa launches special anchor Walsywa, specialists in fasteners for the construction sector, has launched a special metal anchor for application in hollow structural steel sections.

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he new product from Walsywa is also useable in structures where access is restricted to only one side of the structure. Its use extends to reinforcements in towers and metal poles; fastening systems on oil and gas platforms; peripherals in telecommunication towers; grids and guards in structural hollow sections; as well as fixing façades to steel structures. The Walsywa, which comprises a Class 8.8 hexagon bolt, with a jacket with a hexagon collar, and cone, is galvanised, easy to install, withstands high loads and can have load applied shortly after installation.

38 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

Metalac SPS certified AS9100 Now the Brazilian fastener industry is enabled for aeronautical supply.

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etalac SPS is one of most important Brazilian fastener industry participants, especially in products for critical and high strength applications in the automotive industry. The unit is a subsidiary of Precision Castparts Corporation, a global manufacturer of a wide variety of complex metal products for aerospace and industrial applications. So, after 65 years of activity, Metalac celebrates certification to AS9100, taking an important step to becoming one of the most important suppliers to the aeronautical sector – the most rigorous sector in quality and technology. Achieving the certification required significant investment to create a new operational division, inside its headquarters located in Sorocaba City, São Paulo state – a modern and integrated plant manufacturing for the global market. “This new area of expertise will certainly bring benefits to the automotive and industrial segments, taking them to a new technical level, by adding new and differentiated equipment and improvements in management,” Metalac said.


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pgb-Europe nv

Gontrode Heirweg 170 | B-9090 Melle T: +32 9 272 70 70 | F: +32 9 272 70 99 www.pgb-europe.com | info@pgb-europe.com

Class 8.8 EN 898-1


COVER STORY

Breathing fasteners and fixings The last two years have been a time of investment and growth for pgb-Europe. Deputy Editor Claire Aldridge went to visit the full service supplier of fasteners, fixings, components, and hand tools, to see how a new automatic pallet warehouse, WMS system, and webshop, are helping it develop new opportunities to compete within the European market.

F

ounded in 1956 by Marcel Pennoit and Henriette Grootaert as an end user seller, Pennoit‑Grootaert Bolts (pgb) has always been a family owned business. In 1983, their two sons Marc and Luc Pennoit joined the company, which resulted in the launch of the now well known pgb yellow box packaging, an in-house IT department, and the start of relationships with suppliers in the Far East. Then, in 1997 the company moved to its current European headquarters in Melle, near Ghent, where it has become a fast growing logistic centre for the storage and supply of fasteners. With the third generation of the family now active in the company – Frederik Pennoit, his brother in law Johannes Heye and Vincent Pennoit – it is important to pgb-Europe to compete at a European level with market trend setters. “Despite being a Belgian company at our core, we are constantly looking for new opportunities to help us grow within Europe, such as the acquisition of Polish nylon anchor manufacturer Esmark in 2002 – known now as pgb-Polska. These opportunities include continuing the modernisation, digitalisation, and product innovation that the pgb name has become known for,” proudly states Frederik Pennoit, member of the board at pgb-Europe NV. During the past decades pgb has invested in automation, starting in 2007 when it was one of the first companies of its size to build a robot picking warehouse (miniload). “This was a very important step to improve our picking and thus delivery

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speed. This system allowed us to pick up to 7,500 order lines per day,” comments Frederik. Ten years later and another big step has been taken by the company – the pinnacle of this period of investment. The construction of an additional 5,000m2 robot controlled pallet warehouse at its European headquarters in Melle, was fully operational in October 2018 and offers space for an extra 13,000 euro pallets. In total pgb-Europe now has 28,000 pallet places and 60,000 bin locations. “The new robot controlled pallet warehouse is fully automated – we receive goods, and the system will control the complete flow of materials and determine where stock needs to be immediately, so no human interference is needed,” comments Frederik. This is made possible by three Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGVs) from Dematic, which are fully autonomous robots that move and transport stock whilst following configurable paths to optimise storage, picking and transport functions where space is at a premium. “The AGVs are reducing our labour requirements and improving shipping speed and accuracy, with automated product movement from shelf to shipping for full pallets. It’s clear the AGVs will enhance our warehouse,” explains Frederik. To help optimise the new warehouse, a new ERP system (SAP) and WMS (DYNAMAN) were installed to enhance the service to customers. “You could say we were mad to install them both at the same time, but ‘Smart Industry’ is important to pgb – and you couldn’t have one without the other,” comments Frederik. “The new warehouse was being built so we threw ourselves into the deep end.”

Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGVs) transport stock with no human interference

40 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019


The new system offers more lot traceability with batch numbers, order references, connected article numbers, as well as internal and picking information – all stored on the delivery note. This enables pgb to quickly release certification and quality information, which previously was a manual time-consuming job. The new SAP system has also enabled pgb to launch an updated webshop where customers can find products and documentation – via PC, tablet or smartphone – easily and quickly. Customers are also now not only able to track their deliveries, but also track whether the order has been picked or shipped for their convenience. The investment in the new robot controlled warehouse follows a period of investment for pgb-Europe, including the significant investment of a 10,000m2 facility for pgb-Polska in Zabrze in 2017. Here, 3,000m2 was dedicated to production to enable it to expand its product range even further and increase domestic sales. pgb-Polska offers a very wide range of metal and plastic elements for fixing technologies – supplying high-quality, certified products, straight from stock. A key part of this product range is its own SMART® brand providing fastening solutions for every branch of the construction industry. 2017 also saw the finalisation of a screw production factory, PHC Fasteners, in Ho‐Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This helped consolidate the Group’s position in the product chain and offer more possibilities for its customers. This also enabled pgb-Europe to evolve into a manufacturer and wholesaler of anchors and fasteners. Everything in Vietnam is controlled internally from the raw material to the finished product. “pgb-Europe is committed to quality. In Belgium we have our own QC room where we can measure a variety of parameters, including zinc layer thickness, hardness, depth control or the recess in-house. As a result, we have an extensive range with no less than 1,500 references that are CE certified and in conformity with the CPR standard. We also have 15 ETA approvals for our SMART anchors. These high‑quality assurances are what we also require from the Vietnam factory. Our product quality, lead times, and the expertise we can offer, ensures we are a high-end company within the European market. The Vietnam factory follows this philosophy and my father, Luc Pennoit, and I visit the factory every couple of months and continue to do the sourcing ourselves,” says

Frederik. “We have relationships that span back decades, which are very important to us to help ensure our products are the high-quality we present to our customers.” At the end of 2018 the Vietnam factory was producing more than 500 tonnes per month, and an in-house heat treatment and coating line was set-up after receiving a permit from the Vietnamese government. This has allowed pgb to provide high-quality solutions to the European market for invisible and visible fasteners for wooden decks, under its brand – HAPAX®. “Innovation is a buzz word, but we are constantly trying to stay one step ahead. The goal for the next five years is to focus on steel construction (EN 14399 and EN 15048 screws), construction sites (Smart® anchors) and highlight the HAPAX brand in the European market. We’re doing this by presenting a new high-end product at Fastener Fair Stuttgart, which we’re very excited about.” The most recent addition to the Group was pgb-France, which was set-up in May 2017. “The decision to start pgb-France was a no brainer for us,” states Frederik. “We speak the French language and we’re neighbours, so a sales office seemed the next logical step. We have no intention to open a seond warehouse in France – we’ve made heavy investments in the Belgian warehouse so to keep stock in France would be a step back, not forward. Just as in the Netherlands and Poland, local employees are based in France – something that we believe will be pivotal in becoming more active in this growth market.” Frederik adds: “With all these recent investments, it’s absolutely paramount that we follow European guidelines. We’re therefore a proud member of ECAP and MEFDA. These two organisations help ensure we get market information as quickly as possible and allow us to react accordingly to guarantee quality and continue to be a leader in our region.” These last two years have certainly been a period of heavy investment for pgb-Europe, and with the focus on the HAPAX brand; the opening of pgb-France; and investments in its manufacturing capabilities; it’s clear this family-owned company is showing no signs of slowing down. “pgb-Europe wants to distinguish itself through know-how, excellent product quality, a high delivery rate, a client-oriented service and sound advice. With our modern logistics we are heading towards a ‘Smart Industry’ – which is one of the strengths making us a 100% fully reliable partner for all fastener and fixing needs.” www.pgb-europe.com info@pgb-europe.com

FASTENERANDFIXING.COM

41


FACE2FACE

Mark Belton CEO, Trifast plc

Not many people’s career paths will have started from the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, but that is where it all began for Mark Belton who in February celebrated 20 years at the global fastenings group Trifast, known in the industry as TR Fastenings.

I

nitially Mark trained as an accountant with KPMG. “As soon as I qualified, I left and went travelling. I didn’t want to be an auditor as I preferred making the decisions, rather than checking other people’s work. Plus, travelling really gave me a greater understanding of working with other nations and cultures.” “It was at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro where, by chance, I met another accountant who was working for a charity organisation in Africa. After learning about the qualities required for such a role, I realised this would be a great opportunity for me to use my skills and travel at the same time. I applied and got a position at the same charity, which was based in Tanzania, Zaire (as it was then) and Rwanda, working with refugees.” “I worked alongside the UN, getting involved with logistics, admin, finance, dealing with the press; you name it, I got involved in it. It was very much about pulling the team together.” “It was an unbelievable and humbling experience that usually an accountant would rarely have. Once I got back to the UK, I still had the buzz to work with different cultures, so I became a global accountant – working for several companies before joining Trifast, just over 20 years ago.” “One of the beauties of being in a Group finance role is that you are involved in absolutely everything. You are dealing with employees from operations across the USA, Asia and Europe. By doing this you get to know all the different parts of the business because ultimately every decision made comes back to a financial implication. That

was a really good foundation for me to grow within TR.” A big impact on the market and TR was the financial crisis in 2009. “There was a restructuring of the company and I was involved in getting the business back into shape. We really had to start at the beginning and once again set the foundations. I became group finance director and along with Malcolm Diamond (chairman), Jim Barker (CEO) and the rest of the board, began to get morale back into the business and do the simple things right. That progressed very well and we started to grow again and develop our global accounts.” Once back in a profitable position, to help with TR’s evolution and to build its position within key markets, the next step was a period of acquisitions. “We added TR PSEP (Malaysia) in 2011, TR VIC (Italy) in 2014, and TR Kuhlmann (Germany) in 2015, to the TR family. Adding these companies helped develop our business in key areas, with each adding different qualities and aspects to the overall Group. The most significant factor was that each business we acquired had the same mentality, culture and philosophy as us. A lot of companies talk about having a ‘unique culture’ but we

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Adding these companies helped develop our business in key areas, with each adding different qualities and aspects to the overall Group. The most significant factor was that each business we acquired had the same mentality, culture and philosophy as us.” 42 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019


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FACE2FACE specific part to different global locations. Thanks to our global network and our shared market knowledge, we are able to deliver the right solution for each customer wherever it is needed.” Where TR is winning when it comes the automotive industry is by getting its parts ‘designed in’ to new models and by working with the electric vehicle (EV) sector. “For the bigger accounts, the key thing is staying close to the customer and adding value by getting involved at the early stages of R&D. We have a very strong partnership with our customers. Our engineers talk to the customers’ engineers and work with them on applications and solutions, including products

TR has its own manufacturing facilities in Asia, Europe, and the UK, and is continuously investing in the quality and capacity of its manufacturing sites

really have something special. You can go to any of our sites around the world and it is the same culture – investing in people, investing in quality, and treating staff, customers and suppliers with respect and fairness. That ethos is crucial to the way we work and to our success.” As the business grew there were a lot of opportunities to make some step changes, with Mark becoming CEO in 2015. “Jim and Malcolm came to me and encouraged me to apply for the CEO role. Besides the experience I had gathered over more than fifteen years at TR, I knew the people in the organisation, I knew the business and, importantly, I knew the culture. Having such a great team within TR also made it an easy decision for me to make.” “At times, I see myself like a conductor of an orchestra; my job is to pull together all these instruments to make great music. Being able to collaborate with everyone and guide and support them, is essential. Our people know their functions and roles, so it is a case of letting them know where we are going as a business and motivating them to achieve our goals. They then understand the part they are going to play in delivering the vision.” The Group’s strategy of investment has recently continued with the acquisition of UK-based Precision Technology Supplies (PTS) in 2018. “PTS has been a great acquisition, it has a strong management team and adds a lot of product knowledge to the Group, especially in stainless steel, which will assist us with our sourcing going forward. The addition of PTS has also improved our position in the distributor sector, an area in which we have been performing phenomenally – not only in the UK but also across the rest of Europe. We have 34 Master Distributors around Europe, helping us reach the parts we can’t reach ourselves – predominantly selling our TR branded product ranges.” “As for the end user markets, automotive is a key sector for us and despite the current negative media around this sector, we are continuing to build market share thanks to our global capabilities and the emergence of new technologies resulting from the ongoing evolution of electric vehicles. We monitor the market closely for the next exciting areas of opportunity and we are flexible enough to move quickly when required.” “At the moment we are seeing automotive companies consolidating their supply chain, preferring global players that they can rely on to deliver a full service across the world. We have our own manufacturing facilities in Asia, Europe, and the UK, and we are continuously investing in the quality and capacity of our manufacturing sites, most of which have recently been accredited to IATF 16949, putting us in a very strong position. A key aspect of working with automotive customers is being able to offer the same

44 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

… we are continuously investing in the quality and capacity of our manufacturing sites, most of which have recently been accredited to IATF 16949, putting us in a very strong position.”


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FACE2FACE

Working with the customer and being able to manufacture the parts ourselves gives us greater control of quality, which is another big positive with customers because they know we are in control of the supply chain.” into plastics, mouldings and plastic composite. Working with the customer and being able to manufacture the parts ourselves gives us greater control of quality, which is another big positive with customers because they know we are in control of the supply chain.” “When it comes to automotive, it really doesn’t matter if a car is electric, hybrid, petrol or diesel, as the majority of our parts goes into the chassis, dashboard, seating, lighting and the interior of a car.” “Going forward, China will be one of the fastest growing areas for EV, as it is dedicated to reducing the high levels of pollution it has in the country. Also, the USA, with a number of start-up EV companies emerging, will be an opportunity. We are keeping close to these markets and our customers’ R&D technical centres, as well as focusing on Europe, which is also rapidly developing EV solutions.” “We have set up an Innovation and Technical Centre in Gothenburg, Sweden, an area in which many of the key players are developing forward-thinking solutions for the automotive market,

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including EV technology. It is a prime location for us to be based in and we are working on some exciting projects. We will also be opening an Innovation and Technical Centre in the Midlands, UK, in the summer and will be working with some big OEMs through our tier 1 customers.” “Interestingly, we are seeing more of our electronic customers entering the EV arena, especially in battery and EV charging units. We have a large presence in the electronics sector and we are already working with customers in this area.” “Electronics is a more competitive market for us, with slightly more commodity items than ‘designed in’ parts. This often leads to a focus on cost, however, more companies are beginning to realise it’s about the total cost of ownership (TCO) rather than the price of individual parts. At TR, we are all about providing the whole package, including a consistent, quality supply of products, backed by excellent customer service.” Another key sector for the Group is domestic appliances, which has shown steady growth in recent years. “When we acquired



FACE2FACE

We have just embarked on a substantial investment programme, Project ATLAS. This is the largest organic investment we have ever made – GB£15 million over four years.” TR VIC, it gave us a really good footprint in the domestic appliance sector. TR VIC is one of the largest European fastener manufacturers to the white goods sector and, since the acquisition, it has gone from strength to strength. We also enjoy success in Asia, where we have a number of large domestic appliance customers, where having close relationships between our engineers and customer engineering teams is key.” With a head office in the UK, a big unknown for the Group is the potential impact of BREXIT. “As soon as it was announced two years ago, we set up a cross-functional BREXIT team across the company in the UK, as well as involving our European colleagues. We carried out reviews with our customers and with our supply chains, so we understood the whole picture. From that we have Plan A, Plan B, Plan C, etc, based on the eventual outcome.” “Our main concern is around supply delivery, which is why we are increasing our inventory levels. The last thing we ever want to do is stop a customer’s production line, so we are taking steps to ensure this doesn’t happen. With our distributors, we are ensuring we have the right products to hand, supported by impeccable quality and service, and are there to offer help with any technical issues they may have.” “We are in a good position, but an unknown factor is ultimately how our customers will be impacted by BREXIT. We are staying close to our customers to ensure we fully understand what their requirements will be. This will help us to assist them where necessary, whatever the outcome of BREXIT.” Looking to the development of the fastener industry, Mark believes that consolidation is inevitable. “I believe there will be further sector consolidation in the next 5 – 10 years, as it is getting harder for smaller companies to keep on top of increasing changes in legislation and quality requirements. That said, there will always be a place for smaller fastener companies who have carved out a niche for themselves.”

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“A big ‘game changer’ for the industry will be digitalisation, which will provide the efficiencies the supply chain needs. That is why we are investing heavily in this area. We have just embarked on a substantial investment programme, Project ATLAS. This is the largest organic investment we have ever made – GB£15 million over four years. Before pushing the green light, our team spent a great deal of time going around the business looking at the IT infrastructure, management information systems and processes, which highlighted the benefits of bringing all of these aspects together within the Group.” “We are very much a decentralised group, as each site has its own P&L, although, over the top of this we provide Group services to give support (Group sales and marketing, HR, IT,etc). From this structure, we benefit by pulling best practice together around the Group and sharing knowledge, skills, as well as customer and supplier information.” “ATLAS is an exciting project and it is something we are really embracing. It is not just an ERP implementation, it is a global business transformation, drawing the Group even closer together.” Whilst digitalisation provides a big opportunity within the industry, Mark is clear it needs to go hand in hand with investing in engineering and people. “People buy off people. People want help; they want to know about the part; they want to talk to an engineer about its capabilities and understand the product. We have lots of colleagues at TR who have a great deal of product knowledge and our aim is to feed that knowledge down into the next generation via training schemes and apprenticeships. We are committed to developing our people’s talent and giving them training and support to reach their potential.” “Equally as important is to increase the capacity and efficiencies of our machines and manufacturing capabilities, to support our external customers and inter-company business alike. To really grow our presence, it is about investing in our people, our capacity, our products and our service, as well as looking for like-minded businesses to join the TR family that fit our culture, which is very special.”


www.puehl.de


INSIGHT

As the guard changes David Dean steps down as CEO of the Bossard Group from the AGM in April this year, with the board of directors already unanimously electing Dr Daniel Bossard as his successor. Executive Editor Phil Matten met with both at the Group’s corporate headquarters in Zug, Switzerland, to reflect on fifteen years in which Bossard has developed and grown remarkably.

D

avid Dean was appointed Group CEO in 2005, having served as Bossard’s CFO between 1994 and 2004. Previously he was corporate controller and a member of the executive committee of an international logistics group, and before had a ten year career with PricewaterhouseCoopers AG. Daniel Bossard joined the company in 2000, having worked as a consultant for Accenture. From 2003 to 2006 he was general manager of Bossard Denmark, before spearheading the realignment of sales strategies and the development of international customer relations in the Bossard Group. In 2009 he was appointed CEO northern & eastern Europe and member of the Bossard executive committee. “When Bossard was one of my clients,” recalls David Dean, “one of the things I always admired was that the CFO was one of the most atypical CFOs I ever encountered. Here was not the guy always looking back – he had ideas, he looked to the future”. “One of the things that has kept me here for 27 years is that Bossard is a company where you are able and encouraged to do far more than just your functional role.” So, in what condition was the company when he took up the responsibilities as CEO? “We had gone through a phase of acquisition in the United States, which had been a bit problematic. We were in the middle of getting Asia up and running as a greenfield project. And we were still wrestling with the effects of the 2001 crisis.” “Bossard was not really a coherent Group – more a collection of twenty companies, with the same name but far from providing the same services to the market.” The first three years, David Dean says, were “spent putting our house in order”. One key initiative was the adoption of the same IT system worldwide. “Before, we trained people, explained how it should be done. They went back and within a couple of weeks were falling back into their previous ways. Only with a common system could we make sure change was sustainable – that the system led people to do things the right way.” Within three years the world economy had descended into the maelstrom of the 2008/2009 financial crisis. “Not that I would want to see it repeated,” asserts Dean, “but in a way it was a good thing. It was an acid test of whether what we had built would hold up. Actually, it proved to be the worst recession, with a 30% fall in revenue. Yet, we still found it possible to achieve a profit, in which we were almost proud in the context of the years before”. Fortunately, market conditions rebounded fairly quickly and Bossard was able to harvest some of the fruits of what it had done internally. “That’s when we said: ‘OK, we’ve built the foundation, so now let’s refocus on the market, and grow’.” Not growth for the sake of growing, David Dean emphasises, but to earn some money. “It was time to focus on the right customers, do the right things effectively and efficiently.” Bossard also started on the acquisition trail again. “We had learnt a lot the hard way. There are a lot of companies that are in lower profitability, that play a traditional role as a distributor – they buy it, they sell it. We thought, ‘we know that part, we just add the Bossard services we want and things improve’. However, we underestimated the efforts to make the cultural shift. Customers are customers of a company for a reason, and not necessarily enthusiastic about what

50 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

David Dean steps down as CEO of the Bossard Group in April

Bossard is a company where you are able and encouraged to do far more than just your functional role.”


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INSIGHT

Bossard’s board of directors unanimously elected Dr Daniel Bossard as David Dean’s successor

…the challenge of greater global protectionism and trade barriers are less of an issue today because of Bossard’s global footprint.” 52 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

an acquirer adds, so you can lose quite a few that way. Then the people within the business are used to do things a certain way. Not everybody was fit to make the transition. There was a lot of effort expended into making it Bossard – that actually we could use in a better way.” From then on, the focus was to find acquisitions that could complement what Bossard did – whether in product or service solutions. That included identifying specialist niche businesses that might be acquired and their competence multiplied globally. “Bringing more knowhow into the Group, rather than to find someone that is doing the same thing as we do, which is not, in practice, really out there. In this way, we started to combine organic growth with carefully targeted acquisitions to broaden our solutions base.” Through the last fifteen years Bossard has established a genuine and consistent global footprint. “There was a time when a lot of the output was coming from Switzerland, but meantime we were getting stronger and stronger input from everywhere else,” explains David Dean. “So, Zug is no longer the epicentre, with things being invented here that others follow. There were great ideas from other places, increasingly ahead of what we could develop here.” Today the operation in Zug is primarily for the Swiss market. The IT for the whole group is controlled centrally, and there are some functional roles that emanate from the corporate headquarters. The Swiss distribution centre, however, is primarily for the domestic market and to support smaller European markets. “We have the widest assortment here, so if we build up a market it is logical to support it from here – a logical function of scale efficiencies in logistics operations and inventory holding. In the bigger country markets we have dedicated distribution centres – our big distribution centre in Germany is ultimately going to service most of the EU. Currently there are no big issues with supplying from Switzerland – the border crossings are electronic and efficient – but we have to be conscious these things can change.” In fact, David Dean has more concerns about whether Swiss industrial customers could ultimately have greater difficulties exporting to the EU, their biggest market. Overall, however, the challenge of greater global protectionism and trade barriers are less of an issue today because of Bossard’s global footprint. “If a Swiss customer moves out of Europe, we can follow – in most cases already be where they go. We are seeing the impact of US‑China trade tensions with things moving out of China, to other parts of south-east Asia, to eastern Europe, to Mexico. Bossard is already there, so while there may be short term pressures on the supply chain, we provide our customers with the security we can support them, wherever they are in the world.” “I don’t like protectionism, but it will probably never go away. Politicians are elected to achieve what people in their own country want, and they won’t get re-elected if they don’t. There is an inherent self-interest in what, say, Donald Trump does. However, it’s not fun – it slows the world economy for no good reason.” “We have also to put it all in context,” interjects Daniel Bossard. “Our global market share is 1%. Populations are growing globally, we are widespread across many industries, across many countries, so the opportunities are by far greater than the any problems we face. The challenges will always be there in some form and we are simply getting stronger and better at dealing with them for our customers.” One sector in which Bossard historically played a minor role is automotive. As powertrains rapidly evolve that has clearly changed. “Automotive developed its own supply chain,” explains


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INSIGHT David Dean. “High volumes, relatively defined assortments – mainly manufacturer to manufacturer business. The value add for us was limited – which is why we consciously stayed out.” “Through the EV route, somewhat by chance, we got into it. Before Tesla was really known, Bossard was involved in their design process. This was not a car company, it was a disruptor with a vision focused on very specific technologies, looking for solutions. Although it has changed somewhat now, as conventional automotive expertise has been drawn into the business, the original concept was to use standard components, to avoid reinventing something that was already out there. Bossard specialised in providing solutions – and that’s how we got in.” “It has become a super reference for Bossard to all kinds of start-ups,” says David Dean. “These guys need partners to help industrialise what they want to do. They are far more open to support in engineering, to using outside people to help them so they can focus on their core thing, their special knowledge. That’s the mentality of this new breed of entrepreneur – something for which Bossard is well positioned to be extremely relevant. We don’t have to convince them with nice PowerPoints – we have a solid track record of success in their world.” “The other development that has changed our relationship to the sector,” explains Daniel Bossard, “is that we now have relevant single solutions, related to lightweighting, advanced materials. We are able to interface with design engineers to introduce specific solutions. We can solve problems that automotive encounters through accelerated change, and then with those solutions tested and qualified, we can multiply them into our general industry customer base”. Aerospace, David Dean acknowledges, is more challenging to penetrate. “We are looking for acquisition opportunities but face a very consolidated market. However, the aircraft makers want to double the number of planes they build today and there are clear dissatisfactions with a supply chain that has become a closed club, protecting nice margins, but not really challenging each other. It’s significant that Boeing has taken the extraordinary step of acquiring an aerospace fastener distributor. They and Airbus are intent on engendering change.” While Bossard looks for the right acquisition, it is doing solid groundwork, most recently adding AS 9120 accreditation at its Italian operation to that it already holds in France, the USA and Switzerland. Perhaps one of the more surprising acquisition paths for Bossard has been into Additive Manufacturing. “The original speculation was whether 3D printing might even replace the fastener industry,” explains David Dean. “There were so many different perceptions amongst the board about what it was and what it was not, whether it was a realistic threat or an opportunity, we decided we needed to go and understand the reality. We looked into one of the biggest printing companies in Europe, we looked at printer manufacturers, we looked at the materials.”

“What we learnt was there is lot of demands of the engineering but there is no sense in bringing an existing product to 3D printing, the cost factor is just too high. So, you need a design engineer who thinks about what this technology could bring that conventional manufacturing technology cannot. That’s where we have a real interest – helping the customer find solutions. In order to understand what the technology can do we need to get our feet wet – so we decided to get involved in selling the printers, selling the material, so that we can see what is happening, and understand the capabilities.” “There is a close relationship between the design and printing knowledge, a lot of trial and error. This is why we now engage with some start-ups also to learn more. That is understanding we can bring into the design office of our customers. For us it is a learning process, a piloting, to get some real-life experience. Then we can decide whether to invest more and expand.” “That’s about Bossard thinking in the longer term – it’s not going to bring a lot of revenue short term, but it will develop a perspective, either as an early warning of a threat to our current business, or as we now increasingly believe, it will present an opportunity to provide more solutions.” “It is also connected to the fact we go more and more into engineering consulting,” says Daniel Bossard. “So, it’s about us really understanding the possibilities of additive manufacturing. Without that it is difficult to provide comprehensive consulting.” Ask David Dean about the greatest challenges in his term of office and he demurs: “There are always challenges”. Ask him about the differences he has made and he remains modest but voices what he hopes they will prove to be. “We have built up a good team of people who are not waiting for me to tell them what to do. We have a team with self-drive and motivation, pursuing something that they believe in.” “There was a time when we had geographic kingdoms operating by themselves. Now we have group management that sees the whole thing, knows how to learn and adopt from each other, and goes with the same strategy.” “That all sounds simple, but it is where many companies fail. Officially they have the strategy, politically they cannot talk to each other.” “If you look at Bossard’s top and middle management, we have really good stability. People like the way they can work, they have some scope for personal entrepreneurship. We have a strategy, everybody understands it, but the individual manager has a certain room to manoeuvre. We are using the brains of our people.” “I have always said, if I stepped out and everything falls apart, then I would have failed. I know that will not be the case in Bossard.”

Perhaps one of the more surprising acquisition paths for Bossard has been into Additive Manufacturing.” 54 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019


100% MADE IN ITALY since 1912 MUSTAD S.p.A. - Via Sant’ Anna 59/21 - 10070 Balangero (Turin) Italy Tel. +39 0123 346625 - Fax. +39 0123 346041 - commercio@mustad.it - www.mustad.it

- Professional screws for all applications - One of the leading case hardened screw manufacturers in Europe - 2 plants with a total covered surface of over 20.000 m2 - More than 100 heading machines, threading machines, point forming machines, packing machines - Controlled atmosphere ovens for case hardening treatments - Millions of pieces made every day - Thousands of items available in stock - Technical-sales customer care - ISO 9001 and ISO TS 16949 certifications issued by LLOYD’S Register


INSIGHT

This is ourEzio – DNA Colombo continuous improvement

Founded in 1953 Colombo Ezio & C Srl is a well established Italian manufacturer of a wide range of standard and special parts, which are used in many sectors around the world.

W

hilst the years and the generations have passed, the principles that have pushed Colombo Ezio since the very beginning have remained unchanged. “As a business we have always been driven by continuous improvement; investing in the company and its people; as well as looking to meet the ever changing needs of the market with high-quality products,” explains Emanuele Oliva, plant manager at Colombo Ezio. “This has enabled us to grow our experience, as well as develop our production capabilities, so we can provide the perfect solutions for customers.” Colombo Ezio’s commitment to continuous improvement is underlined by its investment in its computer systems and machinery, which will enable it to meet the ever changing demands of its customers. “Ensuring that you have control over your business’ processes helps to guarantee an efficient and reliable service – which is crucial when providing the highest quality products,” states Emanuele. Colombo Ezio manufactures a wide range of products including nuts, lock nuts, cage nuts, clamps, fasteners, and a selection of components for industries including automotive, agriculture, motor transmissions, marine, textile machinery, and lifting components. The company is also ISO 9001:2008 certified and works towards a zero waste target. “Our mission is to produce bushes, nuts, fasteners – whether standard or customised – and deliver them to the market in the most flexible and timely fashion,” states Emanuele. “We also guarantee to deliver products of the highest quality, as well as to the specified requirements and design. We are aware that the success and the development of the business depend on our capability to satisfy customers’ needs.” Another key part of Colombo Ezio is its experienced and organised team, which is always ready to seize opportunities in the market. “There are many loyal customers who rely on our experience to find answers to their technical questions,” explains Emanuele. “Thanks to our knowledgeable staff, we are able to work with these customers on projects and suggest products that will offer real benefits. We have found that this is the best business card for acquiring new customers, as they know they can rely on you to help.” Emanuele concludes: “As a company we are proactive in looking forward at what is ahead in relation to the market and the technology that will be available. We are focusing on increasing our business in the long-term and to invest strategically in order to improve our service. We want to get the perfect balance between quality, flexibility, service and improvement. By doing this we can ensure that we offer a high-quality product at the most effective price.” www.colomboezio.it

COLOMBO EZIO s.r.l. via Nazionale, 159 23821 Abbadia Lariana LECCO - ITALY Tel. +39 0341.731.657 Fax +39 0341.733.597 www.colomboezio.it colomboezio@colomboezio.it

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the King of the Rings

Colombo Ezio & C. srl

via Nazionale, 159 - 23821 Abbadia Lariana (LC) - Italy www.colomboezio.it - colomboezio@colomboezio.it - Tel. +39 0341 731657


INSIGHT

Precision Technology Supplies – perpetual growth

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It has been a busy three years for Precision Technology Supplies Ltd (PTS) with the company moving into a new warehouse, tripling its storage capacity; as well as being acquired by Trifast plc to become part of the TR family – all whilst experiencing continuous growth.

H

ighly regarded as a distributor of stainless steel industrial fastenings and precision turned parts, PTS has always been focused on delivering high-quality products and services. “From the very beginning when we started with micro screws, which we are still known for today, we have always concentrated on supplying the very best quality products and a first class service,” states Jason Collyer, managing director at PTS. “However, we now have around 43,000 products available to customers and can supply a whole host of products and sizes – selling to around 80 countries directly through our well established distributor network.”

point where the growth of the business was at such a pace we needed to move.” The new warehouse has taken PTS’ storage capacity from 11,000 square feet to 40,000 square feet (3,716m 2). “It was the perfect site, but it did need a lot of restructuring,” points out Jason. “Before we moved in, we installed new racking, relaid the floor, and created an open plan office. We then moved in over the UK bank holiday at the end of May 2016 – to minimise disruption to services.” With the additional capacity, PTS continued to develop its product range and by the middle of 2018 was once again starting to struggle for space. “When we first moved in, we thought it would be enough to last us for the foreseeable future, but we filled it very quickly,” says Andy with a smile. “Thankfully, there was an opportunity to buy another unit situated directly behind our warehouse, which we did. It required us moving some security fencing, so both buildings where on the same plot, but this was fairly easy and if anything has made the unloading and loading of products easier.” The new warehouse was once again fitted with racking and dedicated solely to bulk products. “It is literally floor to ceiling of racking,” points out Jason. “We wanted to use up as much of the available space as possible, but the problem is it has only been 12 months and we are already starting to fill up that capacity as well. Thankfully, we still have other opportunities open to us for further warehousing on the current site if needed. So it is a case of seeing how we continue to develop in the future.”

Building partnerships

Tripling capacity

PTS’ commitment to continuously grow its product range was a key factor in the company moving to a new site in 2016, which was situated only a few hundred metres away on the same road. “We had been at our previous site for 12 years and throughout that time we grew steadily and as we did, we kept adding additional warehousing,” explains Andy Knight, sales director at PTS. “We got heavily involved in importing the larger diameters in much larger volumes and we simply had nowhere to put it. It just got to the

PTS puts its continuous growth down to it having the right stock and quality, as well as the ability to offer the right price and service to customers. “We are known in the industry for doing things ‘the right way’,” mentions Andy. “For instance, when we add a new product we look to include the complete range, rather than just adding a few popular sizes. Obviously, some sizes move quicker than others, but it is about getting your capabilities out into the market. If your customers are confident you will have the range of products they need, in stock, then they come to rely on you and that is when you can build a long‑term partnership.”

…we now have around 43,000 products available to customers and can supply a whole host of products and sizes.” 58 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019



INSIGHT Just as important as the relationship it has with its customers, is the partnerships PTS has created with its manufacturers. “Being in the industry for as long as we have, we know the manufacturers and their capabilities,” explains Jason. “Similar to with the customers, we have built long-term partnerships with key suppliers and stuck with them through the good and the difficult times. This means not only can we be confident in the quality of the products, we also know we can count on a consistent and reliable supply.” Jason continues: “A key factor for us when sourcing products is that unless we have seen the manufacturing, we do not purchase from the company. For all of our suppliers we have visited their factories and we regularly carry out sampling of products. You need to have complete trust in your suppliers and work with them so you both benefit from the partnership.”

Joining the TR family

The most recent development for PTS was in April 2018, when it was announced Trifast Plc had acquired the company, with it becoming a stand-alone business within the TR family. “We had been approached by a number of companies and we looked at which one could take us forward and TR undoubtedly fitted the bill,” states Jason. “We have known the team at TR for many years, and joining them is a great opportunity for everyone at PTS.” Jason adds: “The two businesses are very complementary, we know a lot about the stainless steel sector and the pool of knowledge at TR regarding plastics, steel, and self-clinching is huge. We can learn from each other’s experience and that will help everybody to grow. In addition, both companies have very similar attitudes towards supporting customers, as well as suppliers, and that was very important for us.” “When the acquisition was confirmed we brought everybody together – from the warehouse to the offices – and made sure all the employees were aware of what was happening and where we were looking to go in the future,” mentions Andy. “Without our staff we would not be where we are today, so it was vital everybody was onboard.” Andy continues: “It has now been 10 months since the acquisition and it has been business as usual. We are only 15 miles away from TR, but we have been left to carry on doing what we have done so well for the last 30 years. The only difference is we now benefit from the Group’s services such as HR, marketing, and global sales services, which will open-up international markets and access to TR’s wider customer network.”

Looking to grow

So what is the next step for PTS? “It is about continuing to become the ‘one stop shop’ that we have always targeted – to make it easy for customers to buy any products,” states Jason. “To do this we need to have the range and the depth of products, rather than mass volume. Going forward, availability will continue to be key. Everybody knows where to go if they want to buy five pallets of one particular product. However, it is about being able to supply boxes of different products – all from one source.” “We will also continue to add key brands and high-quality products where possible, according to customers demands,” points out Andy. “A few years ago we added the BUMAX® range of brands, which has been very successful for us. We are extremely proud to be connected to such a well known and strong brand in the market. Having such a renowned brand on our website has been tremendous and we have found that when customers are buying the BUMAX brand they are buying other products as well.” PTS’ webshop has proven very popular with its customers and has evolved a lot since it was first introduced. “Our website has been a big success for us,” says Jason. “We are always developing the

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site, which is now multilingual, has multi-currency options, includes 3D models of every item – including dimensional data – and includes various search options to make it as easy as possible for customers to find products with just a couple of clicks.” The company is also currently in the process of introducing a new barcoding system that will help it streamline its processes. “The aim is to improve the efficiency and control the product and traceability – down to the tightest possibility,” states Andy. “We can then provide reports for customers as and when they need them.” “We are already able to provide traceability, but it involves paperwork and is a little long winded,” explains Jason. “To ensure we benefit from the barcoding system as much as possible we involved our warehouse staff on their thoughts and the features they would like. By getting them onboard at the start of the process you can make sure they buy into the process and the system.” Jason concludes: “We are always looking at the next opportunity to grow as a business, whether that is through our products, our services, or by targeting new markets. We are committed to providing the overall package and provide customers with a first class service, supported by the highest quality products – from stock.” www.pts-uk.com

It is about continuing to become the ‘one stop shop’ that we have always targeted – to make it easy for customers to buy any products.”



INTRODUCING.. THE ARK BATTERY TOOL RANGE

THE ART OF RIVETING KNOWLEDGE.

THE COMPLETE SOLUTION FOR RIVETS

AVAILABLE FROM APPROVED DISTRIBUTORS

ARKBRANDEDRIVETS.CO.UK


INTRODUCING.. THE ARK BATTERY TOOL RANGE

THE COMPLETE SOLUTION FOR STRUCTURAL RIVETS

THE COMPLETE SOLUTION FOR RIVET NUTS

AVAILABLE FROM APPROVED DISTRIBUTORS

ARKBRANDEDRIVETS.CO.UK


INSIGHT

Tooling up for further growth

Managing Director Steve Auld tells us the ARK Group of Companies has come out of 2018 with a solid, double-digit sales increment and is now tooling up for further profitable growth this year.

T

here are a whole range of contributors to a very strong year for Arpel, Rivco and Kamtech – at the heart of which has been the confidence customers have invested in the ARK branded rivet and rivet nut range marketed by all three approved distribution companies. “We offer the largest standard range of rivets, rivet nuts and associated tooling, ex‑stock in the UK,” says Steve Auld, “and we back it with comprehensive support and expertise”. The growth of the ARK brand has proven just as positive for its manufacturing partners. “The way we have more than delivered on our expectations, has built real confidence in ARK’s future potential,” says Steve Auld. “That has allowed us to really strengthen our manufacturing relationships on the back of a successful growth track, injecting greater flexibility into how we manage our supply chain – shortening manufacturing lead times and increasing responsiveness. We’ve built effectively on already solid trust relationships, to our mutual advantage.” Now ARK has launched a complete battery tool range for rivets, structural rivets and rivet nuts, based on a rigorous research and development process, as well as extensive parts and design programme. The battery powered ARK ‘all-stars’ provide a comprehensive range of

size and setting capabilities. Key features include powerful electric motors, providing class leading power of up to 24,000N, noise levels at less than 80dB, lithium-ion 14.4V 4.Ah 8 cell rechargeable batteries, capable of more than one thousand recharges. Complete sets of nosepieces are provided in each tool case, colour code for easy size recognition. 110V – 240V chargers, with European 2 pin or UK 3 pin plugs, provide quick charge times bring batteries to full charge after just 80 minutes. Each tool carries a 12 month warranty, excluding wear parts, and are CE accredited. ARK has launched a full colour, mini catalogue for the new range providing full details of each tool. “ We’re also really reaping the benefit of other sustained commitment to the visibility and promotion of our products and services,” says Steve Auld. “We’ve progressively seen greater and greater response from our web presence. In particular that has extended the global recognition of ARK and our other product offers, with sometimes quite surprising enquiries from around the world, leading to successful orders from Australia, Asia, North America, Mexico, Scandinavia and Europe.” “What really makes the difference in these cases is our flexibility and commitment to solving the customers’ problem. Some have been let down by their normal supplier, and we have been able to ensure they do not in turn let down their customer. That quality of response is rarely forgotten, and we are now enjoying repeat and regular orders from many of these contacts.” There are a couple of other areas of success, that are contributing healthily to sales and profits. Hydraulic tool hire is proving increasingly popular. “This is expensive, technical equipment, in which users cannot justify investing for occasional or short-term jobs. As well as being able to provide the equipment, often very quickly, we are importantly also able to provide instruction to ensure safe and effective usage on the job.” It’s not just the tools that are finding their place, however. The company is increasingly responding to demand for more niche products, whether because of the size range or material involved, and outright special items to meet specific customer volume demands. “We’ve just listed closed end rivet nuts in steel, stainless and aluminium,” says Steve Auld, “and are finding a market that really quite surprises us from time to time. We’ve also introduced larger rivet nuts, for example M16 with the necessary installation tools”. www.arkbrandedrivets.co.uk

…ARK has launched a complete battery tool range for rivets, structural rivets and rivet nuts, based on a rigorous research and development process, as well as extensive parts and design programme.” 64 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019


stamping out the impact of theft globally

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Vis Visitituuss::HHall 3, all 3 Sta Stanndd118890 , 90


INSIGHT

INOX-VITI® – an automotive partner Thanks to its technical knowledge and experience of cold forming, INOX-VITI® is able to provide a quality range of special bolts and components in a wide variety of specialist materials.

E

stablished in 1964 by Enrico and Bruno Cattinori, INOX‑VITI® initially started as a small warehouse producing stainless steel screws and bolts in Grumello del Monte (Bergamo). The family-owned Italian company has steadily developed its experience and expertise so that it can now deliver a comprehensive service of technical and commercial support throughout the entire production process – supplying quality products on short lead times. INOX-VITI has developed a particular competence in producing a selection of screws and bolts, especially special threaded fasteners. All of which it is able to provide as a high-quality product range that is available in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, steel for use in high temperature environments, alloys with high corrosion resistance properties, as well as special alloys such as AISI 316Ti, 1.4571, duplex (1.4462 and 1.4362), 1.4435 (AISI 316 LM), 1.4529, 1,4539 and 1.4980. “As a business we have built a reputation within the market as an experienced supplier of special items in a variety of stainless steel markets,” explains Ivana Cattinori, human resource manager at INOX‑VITI. “We have done this thanks to our ability to produce a wide range of products – enabling us to establish long-lasting partnerships with key companies across Europe.”

SOLUZIONI IN ACCIAIO INOX • STAINLESS STEEL SOLUTIONS

INOX-VITI Via della Molinara,8 - 24064 Grumello del Monte (BG) ITALY Phone +39 035 449 56 11 - Fax +39 035 449 15 84

www.inoxviti.it

info@inoxviti.it

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We have always paid great attention to new technologies…” The company’s production unit, equipped with high precision machines, permits the creation of a wide range of standard and special products – produced quickly and efficiently with comparable lead teams. INOX-VITI is able to produce screws up to a maximum length of 200mm; bolts and studs from M3 – M24; and threaded rods and bars up to M30, with a length of 5m. In addition to its special products and machines, the company also has professional staff that are trained and qualified to offer customers solutions that utilise advanced techniques and information – making INOX-VITI a reliable partner. “We can provide customers with a wide range of specialist materials for all their product needs, and our excellent customer service department and distribution performance ensures we deliver a first-class service,” mentions Ivana. “At INOX-VITI we have always paid great attention to new technologies and have also equipped ourselves with an efficient laboratory – including equipment for both chemical analysis of raw materials and for the controlled inspection of finished products.” “Over the last 50 years we have gained a great knowledge in fixing systems, materials and production processes,” explains Enrica Cattinori, engineer at INOX-VITI. “Thanks to the technical competence we have achieved, we can follow the customer right from the start of the project - providing them with a targeted support to choose the most suitable product for the specific requests.” Enrica continues: “We believe that the best solution is found in sharing the functional needs of the project together, which allows us to optimise production costs and meet quality standards. That is why we have invested heavily on an integrated production model aimed at continuous improvement; the introduction of important changes in production processes; eliminating waste and losses; as well as involving all employees in continuous improvement. We are also applying for new certifications that will enable us to gain further business.” This is underlined by INOX-VITI recently achieving the IATF 16949 certification for the automotive sector and EN 15048-1 for structural bolts. “We are very proud to have received these certifications as it underlines our commitment to the highest quality in every part of our business,” concludes Ivana. “Our wealth of experience of more than 50 years; our accredited performance; and our production capabilities; enable us to reach new and exciting goals. We will continue to focus on new business opportunities, including niche markets, and look to succeed in cold stamping even more new materials.” www.inoxviti.it


here

Inside you will find quality


FIXING EXPERTS

WE ARE MANUFACTURERS AND WE COMMIT WITH QUALITY We manufacture and control the production process for a wide range of products. Only this way are we able to guarantee maximum product quality and optimum service. Our desire to improve and to certify the quality of our offer in order to fully respond to the needs of our customers drives us to increasingly widen our range of certified products. The assessment processes are performed by prestigious institutions which guarantee that our products meet the highest posible standards of quality and technical requirements.

TESTED

www.indexfix.com


FROM THE PROFESSIONAL TO A DIY ENTHUSIAST

ANCHORS, SCREWS, CLAMPS, RIVETS, NAILS....

PROFESSIONAL BOX

BLISTERS

INDEX Fixing Systems offers a wide range of packaging formats adapted to the needs of each customer.

WINDOW BOX

I ND E X m i x

EASYKits

SELF-SERVICE PACKS

BULK


INSIGHT

Synonymous with quality It was in 1961, in a small workshop located in Berzo Inferiore, a village in Val Camonica, Italy, that Bruno Bontempi hot forged the first hexagon cap screw with a VIBO head marking. Since then the brand has become synonymous with quality and is now a reference point for companies and distributors looking for hexagon cap screws or hexagon socket head cap screws in carbon steel or stainless steel.

S

ince it was established Bontempi VIBO SpA – now led by Raoul Bontempi, son of Bruno – has consistently invested in its resources to enable it to compete in a market that it says is becoming more complex every day. The most recent investments include the installation of a new and very modern heat treatment line in its second production site in Calabritto, as well as new machinery to enable it to produce screws with captive washers. “The introduction of the new heat treatment line at our Calabritto site has enabled us to increase our production of carbon screws from diameter 6mm up to 12mm,” points out Raoul Bontempi. “As for the addition of the new machine for screws with captive washer, this will help us reduce lead times and means we can produce the part in 6mm, 8mm, 10mm and 12mm diameters, in both carbon steel and stainless steel.” An important point of strength for VIBO is the vast product range it is able to supply customers. “We are able to offer both hexagon cap screws and hexagon socket head cap screws from a diameter of 5mm up to 64mm,” states Raoul. “We can also cold forge bolts from 5mm up to 36mm in diameter at our plants in Rodengo-Saiano and Calabritto, as well as produce hot forged parts from 39mm to 64mm (extra long screws from 24mm to 36mm) through our sister company – FRAM Srl.” In addition to the well known range of hexagon cap screws (DIN 931, DIN 933, DIN 960, DIN 961 and DIN 6914) and its hexagon socket head cap screws (DIN 912), VIBO has added the hexagon socket button screw (DIN 7380), the low head socket cap screw (DIN 7984) and the hexagon flange bolt (DIN 6921). All of VIBO’s parts can be supplied with several different surface treatments including GEOMET®, Delta Protekt®, precote®, Dri-Loc® 2040, Tuflok®, dry and oil phosphating, as well as different types of zinc plated finishing.

1.575

“In our two plants we produce around 25,000 tonnes of screws, which is almost one billion pieces,” points out Raoul. “Thanks to our fully automatic warehouse, which has a capacity of 12,000 pallets, we can guarantee an immediate availability of the majority of our products – supplying all the main European markets.” However, having a wide range of items ready in stock is not the only key factor in attracting customers. “It is equally important to be able to provide them with a very high-quality level,” says Raoul. “That is why we have a truly modern quality laboratory, where we can ensure our products reach the highest requirements – PPAP, 3.1, ISIR, 2.2, IMDS, and several other key accreditations.” Last year VIBO has also achieved the latest ISO 9001:2015 certification for both of its production sites.

Thanks to the efforts of the Bontempi family and the investment in the business, VIBO has continuously enlarged its presence in the European market, with the company reaching a turnover in 2018 of over €42 million. “During 2019 VIBO will continue to invest with the introduction of a complete new DIN 912 10.9 range available in stock,” points out Raoul. “This will enable us to satisfy the increasing demand for this type of screw and expand our product capabilities. We will also look to target new European markets and will be creating a special department dedicated to the development of new projects. Last but not least, we have recently renewed our website to make it easier for visitors to browse with the goal to help our partners check ‘real time’ availability and price.” www.vibo.com

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TRADITION AND TECHNOLOGY SINCE 1961 Bolts up to M36 x 300. Wide stock availability. Guaranteed traceability. Products certified and tested in laboratory.

Via Stacca 3, 25050

+39 030 35031

Rodengo Saiano (BS)

www.vibo.com

Italy

info@vibo.com


INSIGHT

PRK Technologies ‘one stop shop’

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With its headquarters and its warehousing facility near Hamburg Airport in Norderstedt, PRK Technologies is a trading enterprise that assures maximum availability of stock at all times, as well as quick delivery anywhere in Europe.

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ased in Germany since 2007, PRK Technologies GmbH (PRK) is the associate company to Micron Precision Screws (MPS) – the Indian manufacturer of high‑tensile fasteners. “The collaboration with MPS enables PRK to bring the very best of Indian fastener design, and the latest advances in manufacturing techniques, to the European market,” states Karan Vig, managing director at PRK Technologies and Micron Precision Screws. “Thanks to our warehouse, with a capacity of 2,500 pallets, we can stock core parts to be delivered to customers efficiently as and when required. We can also provide ring fenced storage for customer contract orders that can be delivered efficiently on an agreed ‘call off basis’.” The product range that PRK is able to supply includes high‑tensile socket products, hexagonal products, sockets (DIN 912, DIN 7379, DIN 7991, DIN 7984, ISO 7380 and ISO 7381), dowel pins (DIN 6325, 7979D and DIN 7) and special DIN parts such as DIN 609/610, DIN 464, DIN 653, DIN 467, DIN 908, and DIN 910. PRK is able to offer these solutions thanks to a wide range of manufacturing capabilities at MPS in India, including the latest cold and hot forging technology, a turning centre to manufacture any type of turned component, an in‑house continuous heat treatment plant, automatic tempering and blackening furnaces, as well as in-house plating that enables oxidising, zinc phosphating, electro galvanising with white, yellow, black and green passivation. “ The MPS site also includes the latest testing equipment inc luding opt ical sor t ing, eddy cur rent , tensile tes t ing, metallurgical microscopes, plating thickness, torque testers and various other equipment to guarantee the very best quality,” states Karan Vig. “All the parts that we supply are manufactured to international quality standards such as ISO, DIN, BS, ANSI, and JIS. This is backed up with quality certifications such as IATF/TS-16949, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 18001, which enables us to work with approved suppliers to JCB, CNH, Honda, Volvo, Piaggio, as well many more OEM customers – with full PPAP documentation supplied.” Through the comprehensive experience of its integrated engineering team, and the latest management systems, MPS’ qualified work force has all the tools and equipment to develop any component to suit customer needs. “In addition to our core range of products we are also able to provide bespoke design and manufacturing of standard and non-standard parts,” mentions Karan Vig. “This means that PRK can offer unique ‘one stop service’ – providing designs, drawings, quotations, manufacturing and delivery to Europe and the rest of the world.”

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Karan Vig concludes: “Twenty years ago PRK was formed to provide a European base to stock and deliver industrial fasteners that were manufactured from MPS based in India. We have successfully established ourselves as a provider of high-quality value-added fastening solutions and services that keep our clients ahead of competition and at the forefront of technology. We will continue to provide more stock of core parts to meet the demands of our European customers and we are committed to innovation and change to deliver for the future and answer our customer needs.” www.prk-tech.com

The collaboration with MPS enables PRK Technologies to bring the very best of Indian fastener design to Europe for Europe.”



ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

Route to Fastener Innovation Competition 2019

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One of the many attractions of Fastener Fair Stuttgart is the first-hand opportunity to assess new products and services that exhibitors have brought to the market since the last show.

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astener + Fixing Magazine will once again sponsor the Route to Fastener Innovation Competition. The editorial team will review the products and services you can find on the following pages, looking for a worthy recipient of the title Fastener Technology Innovator 2019. To find out more read on – remember to take a note of the stand numbers or look out for the distinctive Route to Fastener Innovation Competition 2019 logo on participants’ stands. On the second day of the show at 14:00, there will be a special presentation to the winners on the Fastener + Fixing Magazine stand (hall 5, stand 2614). www.fastenerandfixing.com

2017 winner: VVG-Befestigungstechnik GmbH

Lightweight blind rivet technology GESIPA reports that its new lightweight blind rivet nut is the next stage of development in blind rivet nut technology – meeting all industry requirements such as weight reduction and the careful and responsible handling of resources, which are key focuses in the automotive sector.

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n addition to the advantages of up to 50% less weight; reduced space needed for the closing head; as well as a larger grip range than standard nuts; GESIPA points out that these blind rivet nuts provide the same or even better stability of the joints than usual blind rivet nuts. The lightweight nuts are used for all applications where weight reduction is of utmost importance, such as for car bodies (lightweight materials), add-on components (plastic material) and structural components (aluminium). All in all, due to their compact design and low space requirement, the new lightweight blind rivet nuts provide high‑quality solutions in complex applications. With three production sites in Germany, GESIPA Blindniettechnik GmbH develops and produces blind rivets, blind rivet nuts and solid rivets, as well as high-quality tools for setting

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the fasteners. GESIPA operates on an international level and offers its customers an innovative complete system comprising fasteners, setting tools and joining technology. www.gesipa.com



ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

The self-drilling plasterboard anchor DUOBLADE

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fischer is expanding its successful DUO-Line with the self-drilling plasterboard anchor DUOBLADE, which enables simple and easy installation in plasterboard and light cement board in combination with screws, hooks and eye-bolts.

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hether it be curtain rods, mirrors, blinds, pictures, smoke detectors or lightweight lamps on panelled walls or ceilings – the fischer DUOBLADE enables particularly simple and quick fixings in plasterboard, fibreboard and light cement board. The anchor’s distinguishing mark is its self-drilling sharp metal tip with three effective cutting teeth. The eponymous blade accelerates and simplifies installation while preventing the anchor from deviating. It enables a clean and effective drilling process during which the board structure remains intact. The middle tooth serves as a centring point and permits the precise setting of the anchor for additional safety. The fischer DUOBLADE is placed using pre-positioned installation. The grey base body made of nylon expands at the appropriate level of single and double plankings. The anchor’s additional expanding effect during the insertion of the screw ensures an optimal attachment and increases the critical load, as well as the holding force.

In addition, the DUOBLADE’s special length guarantees a significantly lower risk of the anchor breaking out of double planked plasterboard, therefore preventing the weakening of the construction material. The sharp, self‑drilling thread ensure quick progress and an optimal fit, which increases the holding values. The lateral shaft ribs prevent any co‑rotation while the anchor is screwed in. The red element made of polyethylene reinforces and blocks the anchor’s expanding function, providing more stability. Common cross-tip screwdrivers (PZ 2) make installation even easier, as the anchor as well as the supplied screw are placed with this bit, preventing users from having to change tools. The high torque when bearing against the edge of the anchor provides a ‘feel good factor’ and a sense of reliability. It is important to note that the metal tip is heat resistant and will not melt during drilling in double plasterboard plankings even in high temperatures.

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FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

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VISIT US !"#$%&'()*&+#,,&19 - 21 March 2019


ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

Work smarter, not harder

Since 1984, Superbolt® Multi-Jackbolt Tensioners (MJTs) have allowed users to tighten large bolts accurately with simple hand tools. The brand new Superbolt Tool, or Multi-Jackbolt Tightening Tool from Superbolt®, a division of Nord-Lock Group, add an extra layer of speed to this solution by tightening all the jackbolts simultaneously.

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lthough MJTs are already quick and easy to use, the added speed of the Superbolt tool can benefit those who use a high number of these tensioners and/or those who have frequent maintenance schedules, as the tool reduces installation and removal times considerably. The Superbolt Tool allows for fast and precise application of torque to multiple jackbolts. This maintains accurate bolt loading while providing even jackbolt load application, along with minimising procedural requirements. The key principle behind the Superbolt tool is ‘Powered by Uniforce Technology’ – invented by Nord-Lock Group. The patented technology consists of a unique scroll and ball gear mechanism for uniform and high transfer of torque. Drive is provided via multiple, large surface area contacts onto the ball gear, avoiding single point contact with traditional drives. This allows high force transmission at low friction, enabling very high efficiency. In operation, effective torque amplification is achieved in an extremely compact design – with input torque kept to a minimum. www.nord-lock.com

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Your #1 industry news source News - Interviews - Reports - Information

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ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

Introducing the micro threader RP020

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A member of the SACMA Group, Ingramatic has introduced the smallest threader inspired by its I-Thread concept, the micro threader model RP020, W00/W000 die sizes, for the high-speed production of very precise miniature screws.

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ngramatic’s well known modular ‘I-Thread’ machine line provides many innovative features such as the motorisation of the die match; a single starter unit driven by torque motor motion; and the patented double starter unit driven by servomotors. These two types of starter units have, as a standard function, the self-learning adjustment of the starter fingers to make the set-up of the blank introduction easy and quick. Ingramatic states it is the first worldwide company to have engineered a solution for the whole range of machines from M1 to M33. The new machine is equipped with the latest technologies available as an innovative tool holder, such as an introduction system driven by a torque motor for an ultra-precise introduction of the miniature blanks into the dies. The most innovative feature is the slide body running on linear guides (with ball circulation skates) in order to ensure a very high accuracy for the rolling operation – allowing the production of parts with an extreme precision and reliability. The drive transmission of the RP020 is made by an innovative double helical drive belt connecting the brushless main motor with an absolute master encoder. This new type of drive with double helical belt favours higher torque and precision. The RP020 is also equipped with the same advanced functions of the ‘I-Thread’ machines, such as the self-learning adjustments of the starter unit. Plus, the introducer stroke can be adjusted by the operator panel or by means of the electronic handwheel, so technicians don’t need to make any manual adjustment with service wrenches – ensuring speed and accuracy of measure change. To guaranty durability and precision, the frame is made of spheroidal cast iron and the SC-Matic interface ensures the management of the motorised adjustments. In addition, to give a better understanding about the undisputable capacity of Ingramatic to design modular machines with the highest level of sophistication, to serve the most exigent users, the machine can be installed in less than one hour thanks to its plug and play capacity. www.sacmagroup.com

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The NORMA HVAC clip

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The patented shape and innovative use of plastic for the NORMA® HVAC clip provides unprecedented functionality and flexibility for corrugated spiral hose installations in HVAC – with NORMA Group reporting that on average 132 metal clamp sizes and materials can be replaced with just one plastic HVAC clip.

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his means that using the NORMA® HVAC clip can deliver a major reduction in the number of parts customers have to hold in stock, simplify the ordering process, and most importantly, eliminate potential installation delays if incorrectly sized parts are ordered. In combination with NORMA’s range of cable ties, the HVAC clip also makes it very easy to attach externally corrugated spiral hoses in HVAC applications, as the shape of the HVAC clip and cable ties match perfectly to form a reliable system. The HVAC clip spans the crossing of the hose spiral and the cable tie grips the hose around its whole perimeter, fixing it safely and securely in position. The lightweight and flexible nature of the clip and cable also create less wear and tear on the application and make it easier and safer to install by hand in difficult to reach installations. Not only is the product physically flexible, it equally creates flexibility in stockholding. The special geometry of the HVAC clip patented shape adds versatility, as it is suitable for both clockwise and counter-clockwise spiral hoses. Furthermore, the HVAC clip can be combined with different lengths of 9mm wide cable ties to allow for different diameters of hose. Designed for long-term performance, all plastic components are chemically resistant, maintenance‑free and the black cable tie has UV inhibitors to prevent fading and cracking from intense lighting or the sun, making it particularly suitable for outdoor applications. The HVAC clip works with plastic cables that are rust-free and long-lasting, important in damp application or where there are temperature fluctuations.


TECHNICALLY PERFECT Fastening elements from Bäcker.

CONTROL ELEMENTS

Bäcker GmbH & Co. KG Jägersgrund 8 57339 Erndtebrück, Germany T +49 2753 5950-0 I F +49 2753 5950-44 www.baecker.eu | info@baecker.eu

STANDARD ELEMENTS

COL D HE A DING GREEN LUBRICANTS Cold forming vegetable oils Multi-fonctional fluid High performance solution Chlorine free alternative

COST SAVINGS ON : • Consumption • Tool wear • Health & Safety

Hall 3 - Stand 2450

CONDAT - 104 av. F. Mistral - 38 670 Chasse-sur-Rhône - FRANCE Tel. +33 (0)4 78 07 38 38 - www.condat.fr - condat@condat.fr


ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

A hero in screws

In 2018 Dutch screw specialist Hoenderdaal Fasteners introduced the 3rd generation of the new Dynaplus screw – which it says is fast, flexible, strong and remarkably easy to install.

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he unique screw thread design, in combination with a transparent lubricant, gives the Dynaplus screw a remarkable low screw-in resistance, which makes the installaiton super easy. This ensures an optimal ease in use and saves a lot of energy for both the user and the battery of the installation tool, which means more screws can be installed per battery charge. Thanks to its own special design drilling tip, with double cross sections and sawtooth thread, the Dynaplus screw ensures optimum pre-drilling features in wood and can also be used in nylon plugs. An extra big first thread for starting, ensures the screw grips immediately into the wood and the extra course thread makes this screw super fast in use.

Dynaplus screws are available in zinc plated indoor use and for outdoor use with a very high corrosion protective anti-rust coating, which meets the standard of C4. The screws are made of hardened carbon steel and are super strong – meaning no more issues with screws that break off during screwing. Thanks to a sophisticated hardening process, the screws are also very flexible. They can absorb the forces of working wood, minimising the chance of the screws breaking off in the structure. This new screw is now the third generation that the Dutch company Hoenderdaal Fasteners B.V has developed under its brand name Dynaplus, which is already the third biggest screw brand in the Netherlands. At Fastener Fair Stuttgart the company will be looking for new distributors and customers. www.dynaplus.nl

TEST THE BEST! We invite you to bring your own screws to do some extensive testing to make a comparison.

SEE YOU AT the Fastener Fair in hall 3 stand nr 1578.

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WWW.DYNAPLUS.NL


FM25045

FROM BAR TO BOX TO YOU, NON STANDARD SOCKET SCREW DELIVERS. NSSS is a major manufacturer and stockist of high-quality fasteners from prototype, to special, to standard. We are accredited to BSI ISO 9001 ensuring quality products meeting worldwide standards. Self-contained manufacturing facility with the ability to produce parts to your exacting standards from either drawings or samples. A wide range of hot forging presses, CNC lathes, miller and thread rollers, as well as in-house atmosphere-controlled heat treatment. NSSS is capable of manufacturing product from M2 to M64 (1/8” to 2 ½” diameter) in a range of materials and strength grades.

Visit our website:

WWW.NSSOCKETSCREWS.COM Live stock availability on our website Contact us on: Birmingham Tel: +44 (0) 121 515 0121 Fax: +44 (0) 121 515 0104

London Tel: +44 (0) 1895 430 003 Fax: +44 (0) 1895 430 004

Email: sales@nssocketscrews.com


ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

A self-extruding high strength screw

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TR Fastenings, the global engineer, manufacturer and distributor of industrial fasteners, has designed, developed and patented a new fastening solution, the EPW thread forming screw for thin sheet metal.

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PW is a self-extruding, high strength thread form fastener, which creates its own female thread in punched sheet metal, thereby dramatically reducing assembly times and costs. The screw works by being aligned to the pilot hole in the sheet metal, where it then forms the extruded collar, combining the forming of the thread and the creation of a strong extruded profile, before finally tightening and clamping into the metal. The key benefits of the EPW screw include: Removable and reusable strong screw joint. High stripping torque. High break loose and prevailing torque. Excellent vibration resistance. Combined thread forming and creation of strong extruded profile. Very high radial compression on screw shank. Standard machine screws can be used in the thread created by the EPW screw. Can be used for electrical earth connections. Suitable for both manual and automated assembly.

Depending on size, the minimum economical manufacturing quantity is approximately 20,000 pieces. “We are committed to providing the highest possible service to our customers, both in terms of the quality products we manufacture and how we deliver and distribute those products. The development and launch of the new EPW screw is a culmination of the hard work and talent of our TR VIC Italy design team, as well as the significant investment TR has made in the factory. The EPW screw will allow customers to make significant improvements to their manufacturing processes, reduce production times, and increase efficiency and cost‑effectiveness,” explains Karol Gregorczyk, TR VIC sales and development director.

The EPW screw is designed to function best in thin sheet materials, typically steel (0.4mm – 1mm thick) and aluminium (0.4mm – 1.5mm thick). It is available in a variety of surface coatings from standard zinc plating to zinc nickel and organic zinc flake for higher corrosion resistance. The screw is also suitable for use in a variety of applications for home appliances, automotive, electronics, technology, energy, medical, telecoms and general industry sectors.

Keep work under control Rivit’s CONTROLRIV helps monitor rivet nut and blind rivet assembling operations to avoid mistakes and deactivations, resulting in improved productivity, higher standard of work and reduced waste.

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ONTROLRIV can also be connected to riveting tools with the work of the tools monitored in real time, in according to the predetermined settings made by the operator. Other features include a display, easy to understand procedures and a PC interaction program to set-up and control activities in a few steps. Monitoring of the assembling operations is developed by the study of the curves, through piece and batch counters, and work lists. Work monitoring is also supported by stored set batches data and by all check activities, either with positive or negative results. For what concerns working phases, visual and sound alerts have been designed to highlight the correct or wrong applications, and particularly the lack of air in the latter case. Finally, the system features a pneumatic valve that turns compressed air on and off, to safely secure the hole, best distinguish the working phases from the configuration ones, and prevent further errors in the event of wrong application results. www.rivit.it

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A perfect partner.

Thanks to our Supply Chain experts, we are able to create a strong and everlasting partnership with our customers. VIPA proudly supports your production processes optimization.

Vipa S.p.A. Rolo-Reggio Emilia (ITALY) Via Cantonazzo 20/22 ¡ tel. 0039.0522.658900 ¡ www.vipafasteners.com


ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

Fully nylon slotted capstan screws

A specialist in plastic protection, Bülte has extended its wide range of nylon and plasto-metallic fasteners with the fully nylon range of slotted capstan screws DIN404 – an alternative to the metal screws usually available on the market.

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omposed of an enlarged cylindrical head, a straight slot on the top of the head, and two radial holes on each side of the head, these new slotted capstan screws have been published on Bülte’s website and introduced to the market in February. In comparison with metallic fasteners, nylon fasteners offer various advantages such as being lighter, cheaper, and easier to recycle. They do not conduct electricity and are also not subject to corrosion. Slotted capstan screws have a unique head design similar to a cheese/pan head in shape, and they have two holes bored through the side of the head at 90 degrees to one another – which serve a dual purpose – so that the screw may be tightened by inserting a tee bar into the holes when it is not possible to use a screw driver to tighten the screw; and to allow for locking wires to be attached to the cross holes to secure the screw. Slotted capstan screws are designed to be either tightened or loosened from the side rather than from the top, by inserting a small bar into one of the side radial holes in the head – this is very useful when there is restricted access to the top of the screw. Slotted capstan screw DIN404 can be used in a variety of applications including machine building, instrument making, as well as industrial sectors for bonding structural elements from various materials.

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In terms of design the standard colour of the slotted capstan screw DIN404 is natural nylon, however as it is polyamide it can be coloured, according to the RAL chart. www.bulte.com

CAN-ENG FURNACES’S CONTINUOUS MESH BELT ATMOSPHERE FURNACE SYSTEMS FOR HIGH QUALITY & SPECIALTY FASTENERS

STILL THE

INDUSTRY STANDARD Continuous Heat Treating Systems Proven Field Reliability • Maximum Fuel Efficiency • Hardening, Austemper, Martemper & Carburizing Systems • 100-3400kg/hr Production Rates • Reduce Part Damage & Foreign Part Occurrence • CQI-9 Compliant • Part Dephophating • Corrosion Protection

Energy Recovery System (ERS™) 25% Reduction in Atmosphere Consumption • Lower Carbon Emissions • Reduce Natural Gas Consumption • Improved Part Heat Up • Oil/Salt Recovery Systems

To learn more about CAN-ENG Furnaces Engineering, To learn more about CAN-ENG Furnaces Engineering, Design Manufacturing Capabilitiesororone to view one Design andand Manufacturing capabilities of our of our Global Installations please visit CAN-ENG at Global Installations please visit CAN-ENG at Wire Fastener Fair 2019, 19-21, 2019 in Stuttgart, 2018, April 16-20, 2018March in Duesseldorf Germany, Germany, Stand 3552 Hall 5, visit www.can-eng.com Stand 15B52, visit www.can-eng.com or email email Tim at tdonofrio@can-eng.com Timor Donofrio at Donofrio tdonofrio@can-eng.com.



ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

Deform-Ti® – when resistance is lightweight

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Specialinsert® has introduced Deform-Ti® – a threaded tubular rivet fully made of titanium alloy and designed for installation on sheet metal and composite panels.

New and innovative forging lines

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Videx has launched a new hot forging line that consists of between six and ten machines, replacing the traditional separate forging presses and trimming operation machines.

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ue to Specialinsert®’s research and development oriented business strategy, Deform-Ti® emerges from the evolution of one of Specialinsert’s leading products – Deform-Nut – the threaded tubular rivet made of steel, stainless steel and light alloy. With Deform-Ti, the company is introducing a solution able to meet the most stringent industry standards where weight control is as important as the materials’ mechanical strength capacity. Technical laboratory tests on the TC M6/TZ insert demonstrates that the titanium alloy rivet (2.1g/pc) weighs 40% less than a stainless steel one (3.7g/pc) and is able to withstand a tensile strength of 25,800N, 27.8Nm torsion and 6,450N shear strength. Specialinsert points out that these features, combined with high rust resistance, ensure Deform-Ti’s excellent performance, making it the first choice as a partner for the automotive, nautical and chemical industries. Ideal for applications where there is no possible access from the inside, such as tubes, metal sheets, and box structures, this system is easy and quick to apply. In fact, the user simply inserts Deform-Ti in the created hole on the material to be fastened and then uses the specific installation tool on the rivet – deforming the expansion chamber at the top of the insert and anchoring it to the receiving material. Another plus of Deform-Ti is its extreme versatility. It can be mounted on any type of composite material, starting from a minimum of 0.5mm, and on finished parts to be used in any production process phase – guaranteeing the utmost design freedom. Available in a cylinder version with different shaped heads, with the most popular threading, the titanium alloy rivet, like other Specialinsert ranges, can be customised according to customer needs, guided step-by-step in the choice and development of the right fastening system for any application by a team of in-house specialists. www.specialinsert.it

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idex’s new line comprises of a bar feeder and bar shear, cutting the material to length – this is for coils or long bars; a chamfer machine with optional turning stations; extrusion machine, extruding the chamfered end from major to pitch diameter; induction heating machine; double blow, solid die forging machines with stations – one feed station, two forging stations, and two ejecting stations; a cooling conveyor; and lastly, a thread rolling machine. The forging machines are available in 300MT, 400MT and 500MT for M20 to M48, M64 and M76 in lengths of 200mm – 1,000mm under head. The head (hex for example) is formed in a closed die and it does not need trimming. Its production rate is 4 – 6 parts per minute. The chamfered and extruded bars are fed into the die by a pneumatic piston. The feed dial indexes the parts to the first forging station, which upsets the parts and breaks the scale. The second forging station then completes the head shape. After heading the parts are ejected to a conveyor that transfers them onto a cooling conveyor on which they cool before they go into the thread rolling machine. The machines are sold either as complete lines or as selfstanding independent machines. “There are numerous benefits and reasons why this solution is better than anything already on the market. It is the first and only real commercial solution, starting from raw material and ending by a sellable product. This line is the fastest of its kind and the machine construction enables production of long bolts, in almost any length. The machine is also controlled from a single panel, which allows one operator to run the entire line,” comments Videx Machine Engineering Ltd. www.videx-machine.com


VISIT US AT FASTENER FAIR STUTTGART 2019 HALL 3 / STAND 2056 FAIR HIGHLIGHTS WASI WEBSHOP WASI APP WASI SC@N EDI WASI ORDERING SYSTEM DUPLEX

With our clever IT and logistics services, we have transformed ourselves in recent years from a pure distributor of stainless steel connections to a solution provider. In addition to procurement security, we also offer you procurement simplification. These include ordering systems such as WASI SC@N, EDI, the WASI ordering system, the WASI Webshop and the WASI App. Furthermore our product range is constantly being expanded and optimized to meet all market requirements and your wishes. For this reason, products made of Duplex (1.4462) have been added to the standard range. Find out more about this material with great potential. Visit us at our stand at the Fastener Fair and experience our innovative products and IT solutions.

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ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

New cordless rivet nut setting tool Qonnect B.V will be introducing its new cordless blind rivet nut setting tool – Q-Tool N10 with patented ball screw technology – to visitors at this year’s Fastener Fair Stuttgart.

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lready successfully used in the Q-Tool R50 cordless blind rivet setting tools and Q-Tool R64, this patented technology has many advantages including less friction due to rolling motion, less stick-slip behaviour and less wear. These advantages, in conjunction with the built-in BLDC motor, provide high-speed and high efficiency performance. The patented ball screw technology provides high efficiency motion, accurate running, low drive torque and long service life. Moreover, the Q-Tool N10 cordless blind rivet nut setting tool differs significantly from other similar products on the market due to its ergonomic design and unique ratio of weight, size and capacity. The rubberised handle and optimal centre of gravity allow for fatigue-free working.

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The Q-Tool N10 for blind rivet nuts (M3 – M12) and blind rivet bolts (M4 – M8) has a stroke of 1mm – 9mm, which can be adjusted digitally in 0.5mm steps and a setting force of 24,500N maximum, also digitally adjustable. The low weight of 1.9kg (including battery 18V/3.0Ah), the quick mandrel change, in conjunction with a speed charger and the overload protection, stand for a mobile, user-friendly handling.

Improve efficiency with i600 inspection

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The R&D department of Regg Inspection Srl has successfully developed the new i600 5.0 inspection machine in order to improve the efficiency and reduce the false reject of components to inspect.

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his new i600 5.0 features 5 megapixel high-speed cameras, gaining more than 20% in terms of precision with respect to the previous version, and IP65 backlights to boost the inspection consistency and durability – to help maintain the same brightness and performance over time. Also new, the i600 5.0 inspection machine features the Regg server data management system. This was developed according to Industry 4.0 requirements and designed to monitor the machine performance in order to recover functioning data, and to set the various parameters in order to improve the production in terms of quality and quantity.

Innovative and transparent sealant With a solvent-free formulation, the new innovative sealant – i.SEAL transparent – offers numerous advantages in contrast to conventional silicone products. Available in cartridges from i.GLUESYSTEMS GmbH, the product is virtually odourless, free of isocyanates and has excellent adhesion properties on almost all surfaces.

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ith low thread formation, as well as very good smoothness properties and a good stability, craftsmen can work fast, professionally and clean. Due to the low shrinkage behaviour no cracks occur – thus mould formation is minimised, since microorganisms responsible for mould have no attack surface. i.SEAL transparent is currently in certification and will be available by the summer of 2019. Like other sealants, it will carry the well known CE Marking. Of course i.GLUESYSTEMS is aware of its responsibilities as a manufacturer and has taken care to ensure the greatest possible protection of health and the environment, especially in residential applications. This is confirmed internationally by the EMICODE® label.

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“We are a team of technicians, engineers, and creative heads in an innovative upcoming company. Our employees have many years of experience in the range of fastening technology in the branches of construction, sanitary, project management, as well as in research and development,” comments i.GLUESYSTEMS.



ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

Determining hydrogen content in metallic components

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HELIOS III FASTENERS is an innovative instrument able to measure the diffusible hydrogen in steel components such as fasteners, bolts, springs, nuts, etc, using a hot gas extraction method.

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anufactured by Italian-based Letomec Srl, HELIOS III FASTENERS is being presented to the fastener market by its official worldwide distributor – Glomax Srl. The HELIOS III FASTENERS carries out a test where a sample is heated at a constant temperature in a furnace chamber in order to produce the desorption of the hydrogen. The instrument is also equipped with a solid state sensor that is able to measure the hydrogen content in air. The air containing the desorbed hydrogen is therefore pushed through the sensor by means of an air pump. Compared to other devices available for similar tests, HELIOS III FASTENERS has the following advantages: The testing procedure is safe and simple – the instrument does not require substances such as mercury, glycerin or silicone oils. The device is robust – no fragile components such as glass crucible or borosilicate cell, are involved. Low costs for the use and maintenance – carrier gas and dehumidification columns are not required. Low test time – customised furnace so that any potential object, regardless of size or shape, and even coated, can be measured.

Fast analysis – test for elaboration depends only on the size of the specimen. Easy calibration – calibration can be performed at every temperature using a certified kit able to produce different hydrogen concentration in the air. Easy to use – the system has a user-friendly software interface. “The automotive, aerospace and construction industries require steels having greater tensile strength in order to achieve weight reduction and to improve the mechanical performance of the products. However, the high strength steels are typically affected by hydrogen embrittlement,” explains Letomec. “Assessing the structural integrity is becoming mandatory to measure the hydrogen content. The HELIOS III FASTENERS can become the basis for developing methods able to evaluate the hydrogen content in fasteners by quantifying, for instance with proper indices, the risk of delayed fracture in service.”

forging your ideas

®

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SPECIAL FORCES

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sariv.it

BASSODESIGN - PH URNATO

elite structural rivets


ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

Screws for professionals

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At Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2019 GebuVolco will introduce to the market for the first time the SilverMate range – a new chipboard screw with a specially developed tip and other distinctive elements.

The new battery riveting tool for rivet nuts

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French-based DEGOMETAL states that its new GO 3312 new battery riveting tool for rivet nuts is fast, sturdy, reliable and ergonomic.

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he new GO 3312, containing the latest generation of lithium-ion batteries, has the advantage of allowing a true riveting by traction installation with an automatic phase for the screwing and unscrewing of the insert. The GO 3312 permits the riveting of rivet nuts from M3 to M10 in aluminium, steel and stainless steel and up to M12 in aluminium. The tool is provided in a plastic box with a charger and one or two standard batteries, 14.4V lithium‑ion (4.0Ah), depending on model.

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ebuVolco’s balanced range of SilverMate chipboard screws, also produced in a chromium-6 free galvanised version, offers extremely wide coverage of all needs. By using only three Pozi and three Torx® versions across the range, bit changes will be less frequent, thus saving time. With affixed CE Marking, and issued with an ETA (ETA – 18/0284), the SilverMate also features improved milling ribs to ensure a perfect damage-free finish. An extremely sharp point, combined with the improved thread, ensures rapid engagement in the wood with a minimal splitting risk. “The SilverMate is the strongest chipboard screw in its class, making it suitable for mounting into almost any type of wood. Sophisticated shaft ribs on the partial thread version and a superior wax also ensure minimal turn in resistance,” comments GebuVolco B.V. The SilverMate’s unique characteristics also include: Extremely strong screws with minimal risk of head break-off. Minimum turn in resistance due to the use of superior wax. Particularly fast engagement, almost immediately from the first rotation of the drill with minimum starting pressure. Very low splitting risk due to the four special milling ribs at the tip of the screw. Special shaft ribs give extra space to the screw head when it penetrates the wood, further reducing the chance of splitting.

SilverMate is packed in a sturdy professional box featuring a viewing window and easy access tray.

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Bülte’s adjustable feet with hex end

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Introduced in February 2019, Bülte’s new range of levelling/adjustable feet – the adjustable feet SF range – has a round base (various diameters available) and a hexagon shaped base above the foot.

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ülte’s new range of adjustable feet are fully nylon – both the threaded part and the feet – which is different to the levelling feet currently available on the market, which are usually a mix between metal and plastic. In comparison with the metal/plastic combined products, Bülte’s nylon alternatives offer various advantages including being lighter, cheaper and easier to recycle. The adjustable SF range does not conduct electricity and is not subject to corrosion. The polyamide material allows the use of the adjustable feet SF in areas subject to corrosion which, for reasons of hygiene or for specific regulations, require materials resistant to it. The hex end in the base allows fastening with a spanner when the product is in application, and the nylon base – available in four different diameters – provides a smooth non-abrasive surface that protects floors. The adjustable feet also allow adjustment under load and are an excellent solution for the levelling and height adjustment of a piece of furniture, machinery or general appliance. The hexagon, which can be found at the top of the thread, can be used for adjusting the height of the feet from above the foot, without having to remove it from the application they are attached to. They are easy to install without specific tools and make sure work surfaces are both even and secure. The standard colour of the adjustable feet SF is black nylon but as polyamide can be coloured according to the RAL chart, the range can be made to suit any application. www.bulte.com


FOR MORE THAN

60 Y E A R S

NYLON FASTENERS

®

BÜLTE GmbH - Kunststofferzeugnisse D 59348 Lüdinghausen - Germany Te l : ( + 4 9 ) 0 2 5 9 1 / 9 1 9 4 - 0 Fax: (+ 49) 02591/9194- 34

bulte@bulte.com - www.bulte.com

Stand 1357 Hall 1


ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

A new screw drive system for the perfect bit fit It can be very annoying and time-consuming if problems with the recess occur during assembling. The choice of the right drive and the right bit is crucial for professional work.

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in Ling says it has developed a revolutionary new drive for wood screws, with its 12 Star screw drive system offering the perfect combination of bit fit and power transmission. The screw head of the 12 Star screw is composed of a six lobe recess, which has been extended with additional ribs at selected positions. The drive consists of six main ribs in combination with six partial ribs, which increases precision. The matching 12 Star bit is inserted into the 12 Star recess in such a stable way that the screw does not fall off. The resulting one handed operation enables a more efficient workflow. This new screw drive system also allows the placing of screws in a stable and smooth running manner without rocking, shaking, tilting or wobbling. The innovation has been patented in Taiwan and the USA. Din Ling says its invention of the 12 Star screw drive system guarantees the perfect bit fit, optimal power transmission and no wobbling. “The 12 Star system is a patented drive system that adds six additional points to a normal screw,” states Din Ling. “This provides the largest possible contact surface for installation.”

Great quality for small components Quality - Flexibility - Speed - Service 360°

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DELL’ERA ERMANNO E FLIGLIO SRL - VIA SANTA VECCHIA 82, 23868 VALMADRERA (LC) ITALY Tel. +39 0341.550247 - Fax +39 0341.551364 - info@delleraviterie.com - www.delleraviterie.com

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ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

Jeclin – vacuum and cleanroom fasteners

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The growing market of vacuum and cleanroom technology requires strong suitable fastening solutions, in order to get an optimal vacuum environment and prevent virtual leaks and potential contamination.

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ith that in mind, Jeveka B.V has developed Jeclin – an extensive range of products for vacuum and cleanroom applications, characterised by a standard quality of stainless steel A4-80 (1.4432) and also available in inconel and titanium TiAI6v4 (Grade 2 and 5). “Current vacuum products on the market are usually a lower grade A2 or A4-70,” explains Stephanie Veltkamp, joint managing director at Jeveka. “For the Jeclin brand we decided to use A4-80 and higher grades, which creates a much stronger product, even if you drill a hole through it.” These ultra high-quality vacuum products can have a rerolled thread and various surface treatments are available, including electro polishing for reducing friction and particles; kolsterising for preventing galling; as well as Ag or Au plating. The Jeclin range is also provided in cleanroom suitable packaging for minimising contamination. “The different surface treatments in combination with the extensive range of products means Jeclin is suitable for vacuum and cleanroom technology in the aerospace, solar systems and health technology industries,” points out Stephanie. “A wide range of Jeclin products give users the certainty of finding the best fitting connection with the right conditions for the best vacuum and cleanroom applications.” www.jeclin.com

The next generation Screw-Tite®2 The next generation Screw-Tite®2, from Tite-Fix Ltd, incorporates all the benefits that made Screw-Tite® great but with a number of new advancements.

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he Tri-lock™ TS threadform still offers all the benefits of a twin and single thread on one screw, allowing a fast insertion with an enhanced start to ensure a perfectly balanced and straight drive with no kicking over on entry. The improved, acute Tri-Lock™ shank reduces torque helping the screw to go in easy and this, teamed with the coarse, single thread portion, locks into the substrate making sure once it’s in, it’s in. The high strength of Screw-Tite 2’s core means that with the majority of applications there is no need to pilot and just like Screw-Tite it can be used in almost anything. Early screws acted as both a fixing and a dowel in one, the dowel portion preventing lateral movement and reinforcing jointed timbers, whilst the threadform provided a strong fix, a feature lost on modern screws. Screw-Tite 2 reintroduces this concept with the unique Dowel-Tite® shank acting as a dowel, removing the need for additional support and reducing lateral movement whilst the Tri-Lock TS threadform provides a fast and firm fix. The new dowel ream reduces timber splitting by driving the perfect clearance for the Dowel-Tite shank, allowing screws to be fixed close to the edge and ensuring timbers are clamped fast and with a firm fix. Screw-Tite 2 is powered by the patented and award winning Stick-Tite® drive system, a specially designed recess that gives the ultimate grip between bit and screw. This tight fit ensures screws stick fast to the bit allowing them to be driven one-handed or at awkward angles, there’s no cam‑out so no damage to the recess and, if needed, the screws can still be driven with a standard Pozi® bit.

SWG terrace screws

Through its focus on terrace screws for various applications, and its commitment to launching innovations into the market, SWG Schraubenwerk Gaisbach GmbH – Business Unit Production has been able to introduce a new range of terrace screws.

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or applications with very hard wooden boards, SWG’s terrace screw features a reinforced shank and an enhanced drill tip, making it the first choice for numerous customers. The drill tip ensures a precise positioning of the screw, no splitting effect and short edge distances. The grooved shank collects existing wood fibres and prevents movement of the boards and any disturbing ‘cracking sounds’. Thanks to a small countersunk head with milling pockets, a final and visually appealing finish is provided. Any remaining chips are repeatedly collected and captured. One further development of the described stainless steel terrace screw is the new ‘vintage look’. In a special heating process the screw gets a dark brown colour, which changes the surface of the screw meaning a galvanisation process is not necessary. The result is a durable colour, which cannot be damaged by the application and transport. The ‘vintage look’ terrace screw matches perfect with dark wooden boards, for example terraces made of tropical wood. Besides the terrace decking, there are also other types of stainless steel screws with the ‘vintage look’ available, which can be used for fixing façades and many other applications. www.swg-produktion.de

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Welcome in hall 1, stand 956! CELO — your partner in fixings!

CELO Befestigungssysteme GmbH • Industriestraße 6, D-86551 Aichach www.celofixings.com • info@celofixings.de • +49 8251 90485 0


ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

Increased reliability and ensured quality EVIRT ITALIA has introduced the EVIRT ITALIA PLANAR® series which it says closes the loop between the die centre line positioning axis and the rotary die positioning axes. The series offers many user-friendly benefits, which not only cut job set-up time but also offer extended rolling processes and control features for high-levels of quality and tool life savings.

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he SMART ROLLING MACHINES® with built-in safety features are the answer for cutting long-term costs, improving production quality and increasing flexibility among operators by fully automating and minimising the manual guesswork, as well as the chance of costly set-up errors – what used to be hours set-up time has been reduced to less than five minutes. The automatic spindles’ inclination makes the machine’s set-up automatic and absolutely independent from the operators’ skills. Performed by servomotors and locked by hydraulic devices, the Smart Rolling Feature makes the spindles’ inclination process easy, instantaneous (inclination performed in less than two seconds) and highly repetitive, warranting a positioning precision lower than 0.01 degrees. The EVIRT ITALIA laser-based auto-pitching system is also able

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to automatically measure and calculate the most suitable dies’ rolling positions. Lasting only two minutes of optical analysis, the patented system does not require any operators’ skill or material waste. The device allows a simple and intuitive definition of the work-rest highness, making the two die rolling machine as easy and flexible as the three die ones. Hydraulically actuate and controlled through a proportional valve, it permits to define the workpiece’s rest highness in a fully automatic mode with 0.01mm positioning tolerance. “Watching Factory 4.0 concepts, the EVIRT ITALIA HMI has been designed to automatically define all the working parameters. Based on over 50 years of rolling experience, the operating interface allows an intuitive and easy machine’s set-up according to a mistake proofing method.” www.evirtitalia.com



ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

Heavy metal in concrete

fischer is expanding its range of concrete screws for use with heavy loads with the ULTRACUT FBS II made of stainless steel (A4) for individual fixings, with a specially hardened red tip enabling quick and safe installation.

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ue to being made of stainless steel, the ULTRACUT FBS II is suitable for use in wet rooms and outdoors. Just like previous versions, the ULTRACUT FBS II A4 with a red tip has an ETA (ETA – 15/0352), which covers applications in concrete and additionally the seismic performance categories C1 and C2. It has also achieved the fire resistance class R 120. The whole programme of fischer ULTRACUT FBS II covers a broad range of applications through their various diameters of 6mm – 14mm in the galvanised steel and 8mm – 12mm in stainless steel (A4). Depending on the diameter, the different variants are also approved for many different screw-in and anchoring depths that correspond to the respective existing load. There are also various head types, which enables fischer to always provide the right FBS II type for all fixing tasks in concrete.

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The patented thread geometry and the large core diameter guarantee the absorption of high-tensile and shear loads in concrete. The flanks of the FBS II cut deep into the concrete when it is screwed in. This allows the FBS II to reliably transfer all loads while anchoring itself in the anchoring substrate without expanding. The FBS II also features low edge and axial spacing, enabling safe and easy installation. The concrete screw can also be reused in certain conditions. It can therefore be used multiple times with temporary fixings, which is ideal for the installation of formwork in concrete construction, as well as many other applications. Temporary anchoring can also be carried out in fresh concrete with a strength of just 10N/mm².

GROWER TENKEEP®’s perfect grip

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With its technical know-how, use of simulation software, and numerous laboratory tests, Growermetal’s R&D department has developed GROWER TENKEEP® flat safety washers, which will be launched on the market at Fastener Fair Stuttgart.

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hen compared to other safety washers on the market, GROWER TENKEEP® safety washers have knurls with a different geometry on each side of the two surfaces – specially designed to ensure maximum performance against unscrewing of the bolted joints even in the presence of extreme vibrations and dynamic loads. In fact, thanks to the different geometry of its surfaces, the GROWER TENKEEP safety washer becomes immediately solid to the bearing surface when the bolted joint is tightened, while the screw continues to rotate. In this way the friction conditions are defined and uniform and therefore the tightening torque to be applied, in order to reach the required preload, is independent from the material and the mechanical characteristics of the supporting surface. There is no damage of the supporting surface during its application, even on galvanised or painted surfaces. Growermetal Srl says its GROWER TENKEEP safety washers guarantee the perfect grip of the bolted joint on all metallic materials with variable hardness range between 100HV and 350HV. The main advantages also include excellent locking performance in the presence of vibrations and dynamic loads, precise correspondence between tightening torque and

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screw preload, regardless of the material of the supporting surface, and minimal space requirement compared to the type of nuts and bolts used. There is also no geometric interference between the washer’s hole and the underhead radius of all the screws according to ISO and DIN standards. After assembly, the washer will always remain inside the screw head. For use with all types of bolts up to Class 12.9, the GROWER TENKEEP washer series is also suitable for applications with embedded holes and has a standard surface coating with very high resistance to corrosion. The series is also assembly friendly due to the presence of an internal chamfer indicator and reusable performance. Finally, with functionality regardless of the presence or absence of lubricant, and with excellent price/performance ratio, the GROWER TENKEEP safety washer is produced in three standard series: Medium series from M3 up to M30 (ideal for hexagonal bolts), large series from M5 up to M20 (ideal for flanged head bolts, soft material support surfaces and slotted holes), and lastly the cylindrical series from M4 up to M30 (ideal for cylindrical head bolts). www.growermetal.it


ARE YOU READY FOR THE ULTIMATE KEEP? Visit us Stand 1036, Hall 1 Fastener Fair Stuttgart 19-21 March 2019

growermetal.com


ROUTE TO FASTENER INNOVATION 2019

On the route to fastener innovation SPC-ROBOT, a robotised unit with cobot, enables the automatic control and execution of complex measurements, SPC data calculation and collection, non-contact and human error‑free.

on the production floor – achieving sustained quality by stable, predictable process results. The main benefit of SPC-ROBOT is that it automates several inspection processes that are repeated. Getting operators to repeat the same operation eight hours a day seems very inefficient when a robot can do the same job, in the same time interval. The SPC-ROBOT can be left to work on its own – it does not need to be monitored. In addition, the use of cobots mean the system is very user‑friendly and does not require any technical knowledge. The cobot used is a very popular version, an open-source system, which means there are a lot of different plug-and-play options for it, such as different gripping systems. This is very beneficial, as fasteners are very complex to handle and have different shapes and geometries. With an accuracy up to 5μm and repeatability up to 3μm, three models are available with a working range of 4mm – 25 mm in diameter, with a length of 30mm – 150mm. SPC‑ROBOT also offers tangible and identifiable advantages for the end user including an easy touch screen, unlimited number of plans storing, barcode reading, interfacing with the net and ERP system and a data backup system by UPS with floating battery. www.dimacsrl.com

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U Bolts • V Bolts • L Bolts • Eye Bolts • Sling Hooks Hook Bolts • Shackles • Suspension Bolts • Clamp Screws

Made to order for the UK, Europe & the Rest of the World

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PC data collection has become a talking point within companies, due to the time needed for operators in key departments to measure the produced parts – using calipers, hand micrometres and a variety of other tools. In some companies, every thirty minutes they have to measure five parts with different parameters each, which can be extremely time‑consuming. Expressly conceived for Industry 4.0, SPC-ROBOT is ‘one of a kind’ equipment, differing from any other product designed for similar purposes, using the latest automation and state of the art robotics. It enables companies to carry out automated statistical parts control in process, as well as the related data collection,

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Cold Former HT 5-40 Hilgeland Kieserling EWMenn Nutap

Made in Germany Cold Former HT 5-40 1-die-2-blow with oscillating die block High profitability High-precision clearance-free and sealed slide guidance Punches and gripper completely pre-adjustable outside of the machine Operating principle allows entire “ghost-shift” Precision Parts Forming Machinery

Visit our in-house exhibition in Wuppertal, Germany on 8th – 11th May 2019 www.hausmesse.wafios.com

Manufacturer WAFIOS Umformtechnik GmbH Im Rehsiepen 35 42369 Wuppertal · Germany Phone +49 (202) 46 68-0 sales@wafios-umformtechnik.de www.wafios-umformtechnik.com


EVENTS CALENDAR

Fastener Fair USA Cleveland, USA 22 May – 23 May 2019 www.fastenerfair.com/usa/ The fastener event for the USA.

National Hardware Show

Las Vegas, USA 7 May – 9 May 2019 www.nationalhardwareshow.com Connects retailers, wholesalers, distributors and manufacturers to the marketplace.

Global Automotive Components and Suppliers Expo

Stuttgart, Germany 21 May – 23 May 2019 www.globalautomotivecomponentsandsuppliersexpo.com Automotive components exhibition.

Construmat Barcelona

Fastener Tech™

Intertool Kiev

it: INDUSTRY TOOLS

Stainless 2019

Hardware + Tools Middle East

Intersolar Europe

IFS China 2019

FIT Show 2019

Guangzhou International Metal & Metallurgy Exhibition

Barcelona, Spain 14 May – 17 May 2019 www.construmat.com Building trade exhibition.

Kiev, Ukraine 14 May – 17 May 2019 www.intertool.kiev.ua International exhibition for hardware, tools + DIY.

Brno, Czech Republic 15 May – 16 May 2019 www.stainless2019.com 10 th international stainless steel exhibition.

Munich, Germany 15 May – 17 May 2019 www.intersolar.de International exhibition for solar technology.

Birmingham, UK 21 May – 23 May 2019 www.fitshow.co.uk UK event for the window, door, flat glass and conservatory market.

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Illinois, USA 3 Jun – 5 Jun 2019 www.fastenertech.com Fastener manufacturers, distributors and users.

Bilbao, Spain 4 Jun – 6 Jun 2019 www.ferroforma.eu Spanish hardware and DIY show.

Dubai, UAE 10 Jun – 12 Jun 2019 www.hardwaretoolsme.com Tools, hardware, materials and machinery.

Shanghai, China 11 Jun – 13 Jun 2019 En.Afastener.com The professional fastener show in China.

Guangzhou, China 13 June – 15 June 2019 www.julang.com.cn Metal industries and materials including fasteners.



EXHIBITIONS

wireŽ and TubeŽ 2020: Bigger and better than ever With immediate effect interested companies can register as exhibitors for the leading global trade fairs wireŽ and TubeŽ 2020. Taking place from 30th March to 3rd April visitors will again see Dßsseldorf Exhibition Centre turn into the global information and communication hotspot for the key players in the wire, cable and tube industries.

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n 2020 the “trade fair heavyweightsâ€? for these industries will again bring together some 2,600 exhibitors on a total net space of 115,000m2 in 15 exhibition halls. Finished products such as fasteners and springs will be featured for the first time at wireÂŽ in halls 16 and 17. The complete value chain for fasteners and springs will be presented alongside raw materials, machinery and equipment. The finished products – fasteners, connectors and industrial springs – will aid DĂźsseldorf to become a new order platform for manufacturers, distributors and buyers of screws, fasteners, construction and fitting components, all types of springs and bent wire parts from 2020.

As always, wire will be presented in halls 9 to 12 and 14 to 17, where a variety of machinery and equipment for wire manufacturing and wire processing, process engineering tools and auxiliaries, materials, fibre optic technologies, special wires and cable, as well as innovations from the area of measuring, control and automation technology will be on display. In hall 13 Chinese exhibitors will again be showcasing their wire and cable solutions under the heading ‘Meet China´s Expertise’. In the space of over 30 years, wire and Tube have developed into the leading trade fairs in their industries. The trade fair duo expect in excess of 70,000 visitors from some 130 countries in during the two shows. www.wire.de

PAAL - THAT‘S QUALITY SINCE 1945 PRODUCTS FOR YOUR SAFETY

DIE VERBINDUNG ZUM GANZEN.

Disc Springs; Shim washers, Retaining rings and many more! 10,000 different products 30,000 m² storage space International

Europe, USA, Australia, Africa & Asia

NEW PRODUCTS

108 FASTENER FIXING MAGAZINE ISSUE 116 Contact us -+ Phone: +49 //2191 9 MARCH 06 0 2019 • info@paal.de • paal.de

H-COIL THREADED INSERTS HAPARE.DE


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Stainless Steel FASTENERS & FIXINGS

HALL 3 Stand 1978

YOURLOGO TAGLINE GOES HERE

since 1992

ARILJEMETAL SKOPJE-MACEDONIA

Standard/Non standard Parts CNC Turned Parts Hot Forged Parts

We offer stable cooperation! Phone: +389 2 2469 815 export@ariljemetal.com Str. Pero Nakov Nr.110 (Industrial Zone MZT) MKD-1000 Skopje, Republic of Macedonia

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EXHIBITIONS

Fastener Fair USA announces welcome party Fastener Fair USA has announced more details for this year’s welcome party. Held the first night of the show at the GM Renaissance Center in downtown Detroit, the welcome party promises to be a networking event filled with music and fun.

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he GM Renaissance Center, also known as the GMRENCEN, is seven interconnected skyscrapers, with the middle skyscraper being the tallest building in Michigan and the fourth tallest hotel in the world. Similar to the Cobo Center – where Fastener Fair USA will be held – the GMRENCEN is set on the Detroit River looking into Windsor, Canada, allowing for amazing views from every corner of the building. “Connecting with colleagues and peers is an important aspect of the Fastener Fair experience and our welcome party is a fun way to build those relationships,” said Jessica Boweak, exhibition manager for organisers Mack Brooks. This year’s party will be held in the dramatic 5-storey GM Wintergarden, which boasts an entrance and ceiling covered in glass, as guests celebrate the culture of the city through music and history. Tickets cost US$20 until 26th April (US$30 after and on-site), and are available through registration; welcome party tickets include

entrance and refreshments. The GMRENCEN is located near the Cobo Center and accessible by a people mover train, keeping access easy for attendees and exhibitors. Detroit is known as the ‘Motor City’ and is one of the biggest manufacturing hubs in the country, with companies like Ford, General Motors, and Whirlpool all holding a large presence in the city. This will allow for even more networking and knowledge sharing between exhibitors and attendees from a wide variety of industries at the show. Fastener Fair USA brings together manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, OEMs, and end users of fastener and fixing technology. It is the meeting place for fastener professionals to see the latest technology and solutions, receive unparalleled education for all levels, and make valuable connections, all in a convenient location in the heart of the Midwest from 22 nd May – 23rd May 2019.

Ever greater demands placed on cleanliness In many sectors of industry, companies are facing new or more stringent challenges in industrial parts and surface cleaning. New manufacturing and fastening techniques call for new coating technologies and suitably adapted cleaning solutions.

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hen it comes to removing particulate residues and surface films in such applications, the demands are on the rise. Also in fields such as the semi-conductor industry, medical technology and mechanical engineering, the specifications for part cleanliness are becoming more and more stringent. Mastering these challenges is the name of the game at parts2clean, the international trade fair for industrial parts and

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surface cleaning, which is being staged for the 17th time from 22nd to 24th October 2019 at the Stuttgart Exhibition Centre. In the face of global competition, companies need to offer cleaning solutions capable of delivering consistently high results, both quickly and cost-effectively. To an ever greater extent, the levels of cleanliness achieved need to be documented on a continuous basis, and the results stored until the next processing stage or even up through delivery to the customer. “The exhibitors at parts2clean will be presenting solutions for every requirement. parts2clean is the top international get together for the industry, and a prime showcase for best fit solutions and the latest technological advances and trends,” says Olaf Daebler, global director of parts2clean at Deutsche Messe. parts2clean is the premier international source of know‑how and purchasing options for industrial parts cleaning, and the show’s visitors come in search of solutions for highly specific requirements.



EXHIBITIONS

NHS to feature more interactive experiences

Registration is now open for the 74th annual National Hardware Show® (NHS), where home improvement experts, builders, and other industry leaders and professionals, can experience everything home improvement all in one place.

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he Nat iona l Ha r d wa r e S ho w w i l l ta k e plac e f r om 7 th May – 9 th May 2019 in the Las Vegas Convention Center and will deliver an exciting and enhanced experience for retailers, manufacturers, and key media, to explore the latest trends shaping the future of the home improvement industry. The event is open to buyers, retailers, members of the trade and press. “The National Hardware Show provides an unmatched experience for industry professionals with access to the latest innovations, retail

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trends and business solutions in the home improvement arena. Each year we provide a top of the line experience for buyers, but in 2019, we’re ratcheting up the level of excitement with new buying and sourcing opportunities, expanded product categories and more. It’s going to be a great show and you won’t want to miss it,” said Rich Russo, industry vice-president for the National Hardware Show. NHS boasts approximately 2,500 exhibitors across more than 15 product categories including hardware and tools. Once registered, attendees will have access to the NRHA All-Industry Conference. The NRHA conference is a series of educational seminars and networking opportunities. This event combines the benefits of two of the home improvement industry’s premiere gatherings in one place. Designed for retailers, manufacturers, wholesalers and industry professionals alike, the conference line-up offers valuable insights into industry wide topics, including omnichannel retailing, the ever-changing consumer, generational trends and more. Registration for the 2019 show is now open and members of industry, retailers, as well as members of the press, are encouraged to sign up and experience everything the National Hardware Show has to offer. Registration for buyers and retailers is free from now until 16th March 2019.


HALL


CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

Jahangir Doongaji Member of the Hilti executive board Executive Editor Phil Matten visited Hilti’s Liechtenstein headquarters, to explore the Group’s strategy in relation to the Internet of Things – one of Jan Doongaji’s board responsibilities.

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orn in 1967, Jan Doongaji joined Hilti in 2000, with a MsC in Mechanical Engineering, an MBA and an application engineering background in power generation. Initially he led Hilti customer service in the Swiss market, moving to the corporate headquarters two years later, most recently heading Hilti’s Power Tools & Accessories business unit. In 2014 he became a member of the Hilti executive board, with particular responsibility for the Electric Tools & Accessories business and Corporate Research & Technology.

How ready is the construction industry for IoT?

“It’s no secret our industry is a very traditional one and change takes time. We build today essentially the way we built one hundred years ago. Therein lies the strength of our industry – it’s resilient, traditional. Therein also lies an opportunity, especially for Hilti, with very direct contact to the customer. The construction industry is clearly ready for productivity driving measures and intellectually understands that IoT is one of those. However, this is not the mobile phone industry where technology is a ‘pull’ from the customers. Here, it is part of our job to introduce the technology, to create productivity opportunities, and help the industry get ready to take advantage.”

How does readiness vary in different markets?

“The extent BIM is actually used is a good indicator of readiness for new technologies and new ways of working. The west coast of the US is very technology savvy, and very much ready. Look at parts of western Europe or Sweden for example, it’s a similar picture. In other parts of the world, we are lagging. Emerging markets vary widely.”

How about looking at the scale of the business involved?

The construction industry is clearly ready for productivity driving measures and intellectually understands that IoT is one of those.” 116 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

“That’s the other important dimension. We have pull for IoT solutions from big customers, with professional processes and people whose job it is to figure out how to make the company more efficient. They do come knocking at our door for IoT solutions. However, they face the same challenges as the smaller customers: The processes on-site, how people have been trained, day-to-day realities. If you say ‘mentally ready’, it is more the big customers and the big jobs but that also depends on the management level within the business – there can often be a big distance between the CFO and the site foreman. If one really wants to generalise, our industry is traditional, big customers are more open than smaller customers, certain geographies are further than others, but everyone fights with the same obstacles and implementation is really where the difference is to be made.”


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CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

What does that mean for Hilti’s interface with the customer?

“Hilti has a different business model than most of our competitors. We go all the way from fundamental research, through logistics, sourcing, production, selling it, servicing it. That is a major advantage – particularly in the IoT arena. Because it is a change in the industry, we are ideally positioned to work together with the customers, directly understand their challenges, and then directly help them implement solutions. 20% of the task is identifying where IoT can add value: 80% is about implementation with the customer. We can use our strength to understand not just the customers’ product problems but also their process challenges; then develop the best solution there is. However, you also have to be present in the customer C-Suite. Then you don’t just speak to the foreman, or the guy using our tool, or the engineer using our anchors; you also understand the needs of the logistics person, the purchasing person, the CEO and CFO.”

So, what is Hilti’s vision of the role of IoT?

“You’ve seen the McKinsey study, which shows what has happened to productivity in different industries since the 1920s. All the industries have curves that are accelerating upwards – except one, and that is ours. We don’t believe in grand visions. IoT is one more tool, with which our customers can be productive. It’s really not so different to our tools or anchors. We develop and engineer top-notch solutions that, combined with the services we offer through our business model, ensure our customers are more productive. IoT is one more enabling component that fits perfectly to us. In some senses it is even less technology than some of our products, it is more service. Being close to the customer is what we do best, so it fits beautifully with Hilti. We’re also realistic. This isn’t something that is going to happen tomorrow. The world is not going to suddenly be turned upside down by it. Our industry has proven – be it for good or bad is for others to judge – it isn’t really disruptive, it changes gradually over time. We want to be at the forefront of that trend – like all the others we have experienced – battery technology, off-site pre-fabrication – and help our customers to profit from it. That sits well with Hilti. It is about integration into a full service and support package and sustaining long‑term commitment to change. Over decades now, on the platform of our family trust ownership model, we have the privilege of being able to think long‑term. We have made massive investments into IoT. We are almost certainly one of the few in our industry that already has a sizeable revenue stream from our IoT offerings, because we are able to invest in the long‑term, in the confidence the pay back will be there over time.”

118 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

Hilti’s innovation centre in Schaan

IoT is one more enabling component that fits perfectly to us. In some senses it is even less technology than some of our products, it is more service. Being close to the customer is what we do best, so it fits beautifully with Hilti.”


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CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS Let’s talk specifically about some of those offerings

“IoT is a very broad term. Take it a bit further and describe it as digitalisation. It is really what we all do now with our iPads or phone, using digital means for our daily work. We do have specific platforms but let’s look first at the Hilti Total Station. Typically, total station technology has been used by surveyors and the general contractor, if he needed one, would call in the surveyor. Otherwise, even though he has a 3D model available to him for 20 years, he’d print out paper plans and then run around laying out points. The Hilti Robotic Total Station is the purist form of digitalisation – a product and a service, allowing the normal foreman on the site to layout digital plans directly, without going through the detour of paper. Another example: Our anchors need to be set it in a specific way. The tool recognises the anchor and sets the torque automatically to the correct level, allowing someone less qualified on-site to do the job accurately. It not only increases productivity, it ensures accurate installation, so enhances safety. That’s also IoT – and it will develop further.

Hilti Connect is a platform we are now rolling out, which is so far unique. Because we develop the tools and sell them direct, we have the serial number of the tool and the customer number. With your mobile device, logged into your customer number, you can identify the tool, and then access cloud-based services, specific to the tool and you. It has been a major Hilti investment to equip all our tools with NFC (Near Field Communication) chips. We repair our own tools – so each time one comes in we have the opportunity to retrofit a chip. Hilti ON!Track has really stretched our thinking. Up to now, we’ve talked about Hilti specific platforms; chips in Hilti tools linked to Hilti proprietary services. A couple of years ago we thought, that’s all well and good, but Hilti is typically only a fraction of the customers’ total assets on‑site. Customer CEOs were saying: “My problem is not the Hilti tool performance; it’s managing all these assets – pumps and ladders, lights and heaters, ventilators and on and on. That’s where I lose so much time. ON!Track asset management is a cloud-based solution linked, by retrofit tagging, to any site assets, not just those from Hilti. Extending that asset management makes the customer more productive. Typically, the customer needs fewer assets, because they know where they are. Inbuilt alerts for calibration and maintenance mean the asset is ready when required.

Hilti Connect is a platform we are now rolling out, which is so far unique. Because we develop the tools and sell them direct, we have the serial number of the tool and the customer number. With your mobile device, logged into your customer number, you can identify the tool, and then access cloud-based services, specific to the tool and you.” 120 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019


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CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

Sure, our competitors now have asset management solutions. However, the distinction is not so much in the technology – that is ubiquitous. Yes, we can invest more because it is a bigger business for us – develop a smaller tag, a better UI/UX. However, the key is the service. The customer generally wants to progress, they just don’t know how – so you need people that can take that path alongside them. We have 29,000 team members, with a large portion in daily contact with the customer. That provides a ‘power ingestion’ of high-quality customer understanding on top of all the other stuff others can do – user groups, focus groups, internet surveys.

For those who are reticent, we can show, we can demonstrate – build on the trust of the Hilti brand, trust of your Hilti person. Then the real challenge! Find all the assets, tag them, install the information about each, install the system on everyone’s mobiles, solve the inevitable problems. It’s all about combining our physical presence, a digital product, a physical product – adding in a network of always available customer support centres: That is what makes Hilti unique.”

How about the big data benefits?

“For Hilti that is really not something new. We have offered tool fleet management to our customers since 2001. Once again, it’s about Hilti’s end-to-end business model, from developing and manufacturing the tool, to supplying, servicing, repairing and eventually replacing it. Also where tools are bought outright, we carry out the repairs. So IoT is not a ‘big data’ revolution for us. We’ve always had that data – it’s at the core of the Hilti model. Take a combihammer we’ve repaired three times. We might be able to say to the customer, ‘we can see you only use it in chiselling mode, so why not switch to a breaker, which will be lighter, cheaper and is optimised for the purpose?’. The other dimension is to channel the learning to the improvement of our own products. When you develop the next generation of tools the first place you look is the repair database. What are the most typical repairs? In what geographies do we need to tweak what we are doing? What do we need to change? IoT, again, takes it wider. We have a very focused portfolio of products. Asset management helps us to understand applications that we may not previously have looked at, to recognise opportunities we had not previously seen. That provides insight to other products and their usage and, as time evolves, we will create more services based on that. The challenge is not acquiring the data, it is using it; understanding what can be of value, and above all being able to transform it into tangible productivity benefits for the customer, and that is what Hilti excels at.”

The challenge is not acquiring the data, it is using it; understanding what can be of value, and above all being able to transform it into tangible productivity benefits for the customer, and that is what Hilti excels at.” 122 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019


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CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

HECO: Leading the way Producing approximately 1.5 billion pieces per year, with a steel consumption of 6,000 tonnes, HECO Schrauben is undoubtedly a leading screw manufacturer within Europe.

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ounded in 1888, HECO has been owner-led for four generations, with the company very much influenced by the values of its founder Karl Hettich – inventiveness, diligence and quality awareness. “Whilst we are a highly innovative business, we have our feet planted firmly on the floor and we are always looking to meet the demands of customers, whilst producing high-quality solutions,” explains Guido Hettich, great grandson of Karl Hettich, and managing director of HECO. The centre of its production activities is in the district town of Schramberg in the Black Forest, Germany. Over the last 130 years the business’ strength has been building on its experience and developing in-depth knowledge of production to produce the highest quality fixing solutions. The centre of HECO’s production activities is in the district town of Schramberg in the Black Forest, Germany

Today, HECO has over 2,800 products on stock permanently, which can be shipped the same day if ordered by 13:00. Its wide range of production capabilities mean it can produce chipboard screws from diameter 2.5mm to 5mm, wood constructions screws from diameter 6mm to 13mm – with a length of 1,000mm; as well as concrete screws with a diameter from 5mm to 20mm. “We are extremely proud of our history as a German manufacturer, as well as our extensive range of quality leading

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In addition to its fully equipped factory in Schramberg, HECO also has a second production facility in Romania

products,” states Andreas Hettich, head of marketing at HECO. “We have established HECO as one of the leading brands for the professional end user, which we supply through distribution partners. However, we do not only supply the highest quality products, but also the services to support them. It is about offering the right mix.” In addition to its fully equipped factory in Schramberg, HECO also has a second production facility in Romania. “We simply had no space left at our Schramberg site and we needed to enlarge our production,” explains Guido. “We were increasing our sales and we needed additional machinery. We discussed various options and finally we decided to build a new factory in eastern Europe – and we decided on Romania.” This decision was taken at the end of 2006 and the first delivery of products was at the beginning of 2009. “In this time, we did a lot of planning and had to get a lot of approvals from the local authorities,” says Guido. “We also had to install the capacity, get our employees trained, and start producing the quality products associated with HECO. It was the first project for me when I joined the business, and it was a big challenge to build the site and introduce everything we needed.” The Romanian site is able to carry out every step of the production process, including heading, rolling, and hardening. It also includes a full plating line, which is a big advantage.

We are extremely proud of our history as a German manufacturer, as well as our extensive range of quality leading products.” 124 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019


HECO®-Schrauben Innovation. Safety. Future.

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HECO-Schrauben GmbH & Co. KG, Dr.-Kurt-Steim-Straße 28, D-78713 Schramberg Tel.: +49 (0) 74 22 / 9 89-0, Fax: +49 (0) 74 22 / 9 89-200 E-Mail: info@heco-schrauben.de, Internet: www.heco-schrauben.com

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CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS “We installed a plating line at the site because at the time there was no plating options in the country. We wanted to ensure the complete product was produced on-site and that no products required any further operations,” mentions Guido. Andreas adds: “Our screws are either 100% produced in Germany or Romania – using the same production and quality processes – there is no difference in the products. However, we predominately produce carbon steel screws in Romania and focus on stainless steel in Schramberg. As a business we are quality orientated – this is a base demand we must fulfil. We believe if you want to have reliable quality you have to produce the products yourself.”

Leading with logistics

Products from both production facilities are stored in HECO’s modern logistics centre, which is only a few hundred metres from its headquarters in Schramberg. “The needs of our customers over recent years have changed, with them wanting smaller deliveries in a shorter time frame. They were reducing their stock, and they were expecting us to carry their stock for them,” says Andreas. “Due to the lack of space, we were being constrained in our capabilities. We therefore decided to set-up a new logistics centre and reorganise our logistic processes.” The new logistics centre is 25,000m 2 and has capacity for 5,000 pallets and 60,000 outer cartons

The new logistics centre is 25,000m 2 and has capacity for 5,000 pallets and 60,000 outer cartons. It also offers fully automatic running to reduce the amount of manual handling required when sending out orders. “The people preparing the shipment previously would have to go and pick the stock manually, which was very time-consuming. Now the products are brought directly to the pickers, and the pickers know exactly what to pick,” reports Andreas. “At just one worker station we are able to pick five shipments in parallel, so if the same product is needed for five separate orders, it can be picked for all of them at the same time.” Guido adds: “The logistics centre is state of the art, which is very important for our development in the future. We are now able to react to shorter deliver times and smaller orders to meet customers’ demands. Plus, with the new processes and space we can focus on the needs and wishes for the medium and longer future.”

Leading with innovation

Over the years HECO has been an innovation driver within the fixings sector, introducing cutting-edge technology that helps it stay at the forefront of the industry. “It is the experience and knowledge we have within the company that has established us as a leading innovator within the sector,” states Andreas. “We look at the market and the applications and when we have ideas for better solutions – we realise them.”

126 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

“Traditionally the team involved with innovations was very small and mainly involved our brothers Stefan and Ulrich working on the ideas,” explains Guido. “However, over the last ten years we have transformed the process so that now around 10 – 15 people are involved in the development of ideas. We have an innovation process that involves several steps before a product is launched – idea, first proof, early development of product, market preparation and then promotion. After every step there is a ‘stop point’ where the group decides the business case for the product and whether we carry on with the process; maybe take one step back; or we look at further development. This innovation process is now integrated into the organisation.” Andreas adds: “We have to mention that we are not discussing inventions we are discussing innovations. An innovation is an invention that is sold to the market. It could be a new product or it could be adding features to an existing product. Both are crucial in offering customers new capabilities and solutions. We have a big box filled with ideas that will come into realisation. However, we have so many ideas we have to prioritise what we can do this year, next year, and the year after.” HECO highlights there were two important steps that led it to becoming the innovative company it is known as today. “The first was the launch of the HECO‑FIX‑plus, a self-invented screw with a teeth design on the thread, which we introduced to the market over 30 years ago,” says Andreas. “Not only was it our first innovative product, but it was the first time we had produced our own rolling dies. This was a big step for us, because we realised that as an innovative company, we couldn’t develop solutions without also have the rolling know-how and knowledge of how to design dies. That is when we decided to set-up our own rolling department.” Andreas continues: “The second step was the transfer of the teeth design principle from the chipboard screw to the MULTI-MONTI® concrete screw. Not only did we create a new product that changed the industry, but it also led us to developing our technical services – due to the amount of approvals and certifications the MULTI-MONTI achieved. These two crucial experiences have become the foundations for every innovation that we have developed since.” By following its founder’s vision of inventiveness, diligence, and quality awareness, HECO has become a pivotal manufacturer within the fixing industry. This was further underlined by its strategic partnership agreement with SFS Group in 2015. “The partnership with SFS, who is also a shareholder, has been very positive,” states Guido. “We have taken responsibility for and produce all of the product line – timberwork, which is sold in a different sales channel to our normal market. Making it an additional opportunity for us that offers lots of potential.” Andreas adds: “SFS has been a positive addition to our business and gives us another ‘leg to stand on’, but HECO will continue to be a strong brand for the trade. We have experienced good growth as HECO and we forecast that this will continue over the coming years. The general construction sector within Europe at the moment has been very good and we see a lot of opportunities in the future. Our share in the majority of sectors we supply is relatively small, when compared to some of the larger players. This means our growth does not depend on the market growing, but rather on how we develop as a business through or processes and our products. If we do our homework, we can be competitive in all sectors.” www.heco-schrauben.com



CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

Façade construction in the fourth dimension

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Approximately 76,000 fischer Zykon panel anchors FZP-II have recently been used as part of a two phase renovation project on the multi-storey office building – La Grande Arche de la Fraternité – in Puteaux just outside of Paris, France.

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t a height of 110.9 metres, a width of 106.9 metres, and a length of 112 metres, the La Grande Arche office building is almost cube-shaped and is made of reinforced concrete while its façade consists of glass and natural stone. Heat, frost, moisture and air pollution, put the white Carrara marble slabs into a poor state, resulting in distortions, spalling and cracks – while some of the panels that had been attached with mandrel anchors came loose. The marble was therefore replaced with white granite, known as ‘Bethel White’, obtained from a quarry in Vermont, USA. The stone’s special surface treatment gives it the same colour and shine as the original marble while being significantly more robust. Mobile access platforms enabled safe and productive replacement work to be carried out on the tesseract façade, optimising the final result. The fischer Group of Companies, in cooperation with a drilling firm, was in charge of the attachment using undercut anchors. FZP‑II‑SO Zykon panel anchors were installed using the stand-off method of installation in order to attach the granite panels to the façade. fischer supplied EDM with 42,500 anchors for the renovation of the south side and decorative surfaces between the end of 2015 and the end of 2017. The second phase, lasting from the end of 2017 until

the end of 2018, saw 35,500 FZP-II-SO anchors being supplied in order to exchange the panels on the north surface. fischer Zykon panel anchors FZP-II ensure form-fit and expansion-free installation in the conical undercut drill hole. Their reverse mounted installation enables fastenings in the ¹⁄₅ point of the façade panel. Compared to edge fixings (pin, plug pin and slot fixings) this technique achieves lower panel bending moments and higher load-bearing capacities. This allows the installation of thinner and larger-sized panels compared with installation using edge fixings. In comparison to the previous solutions, individual panels of the façade of the Grand Arches can be replaced thanks to the FZP-II, if required.

A solid and dynamic approach PECOL Group provides a global range of products and services in the areas of fixing and assembly systems, for all kinds of industry and trade, in compliance with the most strict quality criteria. Here, General Manager Antonio Novais explains why 2019 is set to be a record breaking year for the company.

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his year will be an intense year where we will introduce new developments, and innovations, and continue to look for partners inside and outside Europe that want to work with us on the internationalisation of our brand. Our motivated team is accustomed to breaking records every year and 2019 will be no exception. We have fantastic new products and projects that cannot be revealed due to the old maxim: ‘The secret is the soul of the business’. However, we are making strong investments on the continued internationalisation of the company. Spain, Italy, Poland, Morocco, and Angola, are countries where we have created PECOL subsidiaries in order to develop even more our business outside Portugal. Today PECOL is present in over 50 countries on four continents. Through PECOL Automotive we are specialised in the production of special fixing components by cold forming, with the company strategically oriented to the automotive industry requirements. In addition, through PECOL Sistemas de Fixação we distribute a wide range of fixing systems and solutions for the construction, industry and retail professionals.

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Also, thanks to the partnerships that we have with universities and our PECOL research and development centre, we are able to introduce innovations to the market – extending our offerings and answering the needs and opportunities identified by our customers. We would like to thank all our customers – who trust our products and involve us in their projects – for making PECOL a reference in fixation systems. www.pecol.pt


SET NEW STANDARDS WITH SWG PRODUCTION

SWG SCHRAUBENWERK GAISBACH GMBH SUSTAINABLE PLANNING  FUTUREORIENTED CONSTRUCTION SWG PRODUCTION BRIDGES SPAN LENGTHS OF 82 METERS Earthworks for the 96.44 x 113 metre production building began in October last year. Now, 3 months later, construction is already progressing. The excavation for the complete foundation was carried out. Also the pits for the hardening shop and the loading area with integrated heating coils have already been concreted. At present, soil improvement work is being carried out using concrete tamping columns and the strip foundations are being constructed.

The current wintry weather conditions do not affect the work, so that concreting could nevertheless be poured and work can continue according to plan. Therefore timber construction on the construction site is expected to begin in April 2019. Further reports on construction progress will follow in the coming weeks and months on our news blog and the social media channels Facebook, Linkedin, YouTube and Instagram.

Also in the new year construction work and preparations are running at full speed. Last week the timber construction company SCHLOSSER started with the production of the bracing framework for our new production hall. Subsequently, the main beams are manufactured in building beech wood. Both the bracing framework and the main girders will remain visible from the inside after completion of the hall.

SWG Schraubenwerk Gaisbach GmbH | Division Production | Am Bahnhof 50 | 74638 Waldenburg | +49 7942 100-0 | www.swg-produktion.de


CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

High performance solutions from Rawlplug Koelner Rawlplug IP Sp z.o.o has recently introduced two new products – a high performance hybrid resin R-KER II bonded anchor and a direct fastening system R-RAWL‑SC40 gas powered nailer.

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roducts in the bonded anchor category are designed to be used in specific conditions, namely in applications where it is difficult to use mechanical fixings. By definition, they need to display excellent performance and safety, which is where Rawlplug’s first new product, the R-KER II hybrid resin, meets the highest standards. The R-KER II combines impressive technical performance with other characteristics of key importance for professionals such as a wide range of hole diameters, an extensive line-up of fasteners that can be used, as well as comfortable application and cost‑effectiveness. The R-KER II uses a hybrid resin formulation, which is a totally innovative, specialised vinylester mix with added cement – making the product a viable alternative to expensive epoxy resins. Another significant advantage of the R-KER II is the wide range of compatible drill bits and rod diameters, up to 40mm in the latter case. The impressive portfolio of suitable fasteners, from threaded rods to internally threaded sockets to rebars, make Rawlplug’s new product suitable for over 90% of professional construction fixing applications including protective barriers, scaffolding, machinery, and specialised applications using dedicated rods, for instance in the post-installed rebar technology. The R-KER II is suitable for a very wide range of corrosive environments, from C1 to C5, and can be applied to an extensive range of substrates – cracked and non‑cracked, damp, wet, and even totally flooded. The anchor also features the DustlessDrill system. “This cutting-edge solution automates completely the process of preparation of the hole for application and guarantees absolutely secure installation and safe operation, maximising installation comfort at the same time,” comments Rawlplug. “The R-KER II is an indisputable proof of Rawlplug’s knowledge and experience spanning 100 years.”

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Speed of serial fixing with manual precision and safety

No major investment can be created without key elements, which can be very tiny indeed. The final outcome is influenced to an equal degree by each stage: From formwork fixing through fixings of all shapes and sizes, to finishing works where manual installation proves particularly important. This is why Rawlplug devotes equal attention to the solutions dedicated to each one of them – this includes its second generation R-RAWL-SC40 gas powered nailer. “When working on the R-RAWL-SC40’s design, we set ourselves two goals,” explains Rawlplug. “To make the device secure, convenient to use and reliable, and at the same time to give it all the features making it innovative and competitive on the well stocked construction tool market.” This is why Rawlplug has improved the features that are of key importance for contractors, achieving a totally new design. Firstly, the redesigned device guarantees protection of internal components against dust and larger concrete chips during installation. The guard has been designed in a way to protect the tool as far as possible against dust and dirt, at the same time ensuring convenient installation. Also, the front part is designed in such a way as to assure much better protection, extending the service life of the tool by around 40%. Rawlplug has also changed the handle position, making the whole device significantly more balanced, and consequently improving long-term working comfort to a substantial degree. Operators working in the vertical position will appreciate this in particular. The second generation R-RAWL-SC40 also has a redesigned plastic magazine, which improves balance and makes work easier in places that are significantly difficult to access. All this comes with an extremely durable 2.5Ah lithium-ion battery, with a rapid charging function – making it possible to install up to 16,000 fixings on a single charge. “All the changes made give us an innovative and reliable device that is simply indispensable to a user’s day-to-day work and is more than just another tool – it provides expert support to professionals.”


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CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

Committed to quality

INDEX Fixing Systems works daily towards maximum customer satisfaction which, in recent months, has included adding a series of new products to its assessed range – including the sleeve anchor, throughbolt anchors and direct fixing concrete screws.

I

NDEX Fixing Systems points out that these important product developments all have affixed European Technical Assessment. The new sleeve anchor with ETA Option 7 has been improved to allow the new anchor to enhance its performance by 20%, remaining above the main anti-rotation anchors on the market. The performance of MTH anchors has also been improved by up to 40% with improvements applied to the shaft and clip design. In addition to the new MTH-A2 stainless steel version, these improvements broaden the range of options when choosing the anchor that best suits customers’ needs. Now available in more versions is the direct fixing concrete screw for use in cracked and non cracked concrete.

MTH-A2

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“These new developments have taken into account the main needs of INDEX’s users, as well as the safety and the quality of our products. We focus on developing approved products, as this way we guarantee a quality and consequently a certainty that the anchor covers the highest standards,” comments INDEX. “Adding these products, allows us to provide a differential value to our customers, certifying and guaranteeing that the products comply with the mandatory requirements, defined in technical or regulatory requirements, improving the sale process of these products.” In order to guarantee maximum product quality, INDEX Fixing Systems has strict control of the manufacturing processes. Endorsed by the ISO 9001 certification, this enables the company to maintain its quality commitment to customers. In addition, the company is committed to the approval and certification of products, supported by the most prestigious institutions worldwide. www.indexfix.com



CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

Choosing the correct structural adhesive Structural bonding as an alternative to mechanical fixing or welding has become increasingly popular amongst sheet metal fabricators, construction, and specialist architectural metalworking companies in recent years. Particularly as businesses are seeking to reduce costs and improve finished product design – without reducing integrity.

T

echnical advances, and the development of new bonding solutions, have dramatically improved the performance of structural adhesives in recent years. Now more than ever, these benefits have contributed to the dramatic take up of structural adhesives. Bonded parts need to be structurally sound and ready to handle as quickly and efficiently as possible, with minimal wastage from the chosen adhesive. In the past, wastage was often a common and costly bi-product of using adhesives. However, new designs in mixer nozzles and dispensing cartridges, together with a little training on the correct method of dispensing adhesive, has effectively ‘designed out’ this problem and propelled structural bonding into the limelight as a very cost-effective and efficient method of joining metal substrates. Adhesives give the modern designer far greater flexibility allowing them to create products with more appealing cleaner lines that cannot be achieved by traditional riveting, welding or other mechanical fixing methods.

Two component toughened acrylic structural adhesives.

These types of adhesives are packaged in a two part cartridge containing hardener and resin. As the adhesive is expelled from the cartridge it mixes in a spiral nozzle and a chemical reaction starts the curing stage. Toughened acrylic structural adhesives are fast curing, resistant to moisture, impact, shock and vibration. Most toughened acrylic structural adhesives will be multi‑substrate bonding adhesives giving good adhesion to most metals, plastics, composites, glass, wood, stone, granite, ceramic and many more materials besides. They can tolerate different rates of thermal expansion from differing substrates and some can tolerate powder coating temperatures of 180°C after being bonded. Penloc® 1-1 for example, is a high performance adhesive and can withstand usual weathering and temperatures of around -55°C to +125°C. Penloc adhesive is ideal for bonding/fabricating decorative architectural metalwork, balustrades, stainless steel cooker hoods, lift car and escalator fabrication or refurbishment. It is also ideal for use on decorative finished materials such as brushed stainless steel or brushed aluminium. Traditionally, welding these materials will leave burn marks or indentations that require finishing and rework that all cost time and money. Penloc® 1-1R is a unique non-odour and non-flammable structural adhesive and is ideal for use in confined spaces or poorly ventilated areas or indeed on-site work that may restrict the use of flammable materials. Penloc adhesives from Eurobond Adhesives Ltd

134 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

will cure to a handling strength in just 3 to 5 minutes leaving the user free to carry on with other work. It will fully cure in one hour. Typical tensile shear strength values of 276kg/cm² can be achieved when bonding steel and 224kg/cm² on aluminium.

One component flexible structural adhesives

These are very slow curing, strong and resilient adhesives that cure by the absorption of moisture from the ambient atmosphere and the surface moisture present on the substrate. However, it is important to note that these types of adhesives should not be applied in temperatures at or below 5°C. At this temperature, all moisture curing or aqueous adhesive’s curing mechanisms are suspended. Eurobond Solo® for example is a polymer hybrid adhesive that cures to a tough, flexible bond. It will bond most metals, plastics, wood, composites, glass and many other substrates in any combination. Eurobond Solo has been specifically formulated to build high initial bond strength on a variety of complex substrates including those associated with industrial prefabricated structures, portable utility buildings, dwellings, containers and vehicle bodies. Eurobond Solo has also been designed to hold unsupported components against a vertical plane or soffit soon after application. Eurobond Solo is very user-friendly and environmentally friendly. It contains no hazardous elements, contains no free isocyanates, VOCs, acids or halogens. For most applications primerless adhesion can be obtained. Eurobond Solo is tolerant to damp substrates and does not shrink on curing. Eurobond’s range of single part flexible adhesives includes Eurobond SafeFix® – a flame retardant flexible adhesive that will bond just about any material combination; Eurobond MultiSeal® – an exceptional adhesive and sealant that will tolerate extreme chemical environments; Eurobond QuickFix® – a flexible MS Polymer adhesive that offers a fast cure speed and initial grab time; and finally Eurobond ClearFix – which can be used for wanting a transparent bond line perhaps for bonding clear plastics or glass.


METAL SHEET STAMPING

PLASTIC & RUBBER INJECTION

WIRE COLD FORMING


CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

ETA certificate for Parachim Methacrylate DL Chemicals has obtained an European Technical Assessment (ETA – 18/0009) for the chemical anchor Parachim Methacrylate. Based on this certificate a DoP was made and CE Marking has been added on the packaging.

P

arachim Methacrylate is a two component, vinylester fixing that is perfect for all stress-free anchoring in either dry or humid materials. It is used for the fixation of wire rods, screws, roller shutters, and staircase handrails, and can be used in hollow and solid material. Fixation close to the edge or in a corner is also possible and the styrene‑free product does not shrink. Parachim Methacrylate is available in two versions and can be applied from a standard cartridge gun. The grey version, in cartridges of 280ml, offers curing colour proof, which means users can clearly see when the product is fully cured and when it can be loaded. When the product is applied, it is blue. Only when it is fully cured does it regain its normal grey colour. This helps prevent the fixation being loaded too soon. Also available is a regular beige version in a 300ml cartridge.

Think ThinkFixing Fixing

G&B G&BUK UKwarehouse warehouse Quality Quality products products with with aa service service toto match match available available

for fornext nextday daydelivery deliverydirect directfrom fromour ourbranch branch ininSheffield Sheffield(UK (UKmainland mainlandonly). only). Contact Contact our our experienced experienced staff staff toto assist assist you you forfor allall you you need. need. G&B G&B GROUP, GROUP, the the Italian Italian company company

1.270 1.270

G&B G&B Fissaggi Fissaggi S.r.l. S.r.l. Italia Italia Corso Corso Savona, Savona, 22 22 10029 10029 Villastellone Villastellone (TO) (TO) tel.tel. +39+39 011011 961961 94 94 33 33 faxfax +39+39 011011 961961 96 96 39 39 info@gebfissaggi.com info@gebfissaggi.com

134 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019 www.gebfissaggi.com www.gebfissaggi.com

G&B G&B Fissaggi Fissaggi UKUK warehouse warehouse Unit Unit 16 16 Riverside Riverside Court Court Don Don Road Road - Sheffield - Sheffield - S9- S9 2TJ2TJ (UK) (UK) tel.tel. 0114 0114 242242 0074 0074 faxfax 0114 0114 242242 0075 0075 uksales@gebfissaggi.com uksales@gebfissaggi.com

Vertretung Vertretung Deutschland Deutschland G&B G&B Fissaggi Fissaggi johnengebfissaggi@gmail.com johnengebfissaggi@gmail.com G&B G&B Fissaggi Fissaggi Ibérica Ibérica gbiberica@gebfissaggi.com gbiberica@gebfissaggi.com G&B G&B Fissaggi Fissaggi Benelux Benelux info@gebfissaggi.com info@gebfissaggi.com G&B G&B Fissaggi Fissaggi France France p.carlu@gebfissaggi.com p.carlu@gebfissaggi.com



CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

Recent European Technical Assessments for fixings ETA NUMBER

TRADE NAME

COMPANY

EAD 330196-01-0604 Plastic anchors made of virgin or non-virgin material for fixing of ETICS with rendering

Following an agreement with the European Organisation of Technical Assessments, here is a list of recent ETAs published in the last two months on the EOTA website.

I

t is important to note that existing ETAs may be amended or withdrawn so this list should not be considered definitive. For further information and a full list of valid ETAs visit EOTA’s website. If you have recently received an ETA, and would like to have it included in our table, please email us the full details at editor@fastenerandfixings.com www.eota.eu

ETA – 08/0204

MKaM-ŁI3AΦ10, MKaM-ŁI3AΦ10Mt, MKaM ŁI3ALΦ10 and MKaM-ŁI3ALΦ10Mt

MKaM Sp. z o.o.

EAD 330030-00-0601 Fastener of external wall claddings ETA – 18/1001

HFB Fixing for GRC and concrete stone panels

HFB Engineering GmbH

EAD 330076-00-0604 Metal injection anchors for use in masonry ETA – 18/0623

POLY-GPG/POLY-GPG PLUS

Simpson Strong-Tie

ETA – 18/1000

Injection System BIT-200

BIT United Ltd

EAD 330232-00-0601 Mechanical fasteners for use in concrete ETA – 13/0422

SLP-H4

P.H. HAMAR Sp. J. B. i H. Grzesiak

ETA – 17/0942

CTU Anchor CE7 – “CTA”

CTU Anchor CE7 – “CTA”

EAD 330499-00-0601 Bonded fasteners for use in concrete ETA – 18/0921

POLY – GPG / POLY – GPG PLUS

Simpson Strong-Tie

ETA – 18/1031

RESPESF

ADI Supply Ltd

ETA – 18/1119

Vorpa ESF Injection System

VORPA srl

ETAG 001 used as EAD Metal Anchors for use in concrete used as an EAD ETA – 17/0168

Hilti nail anchor HFB

HILTI AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT

ETA – 17/0432

Metal anchors for use in concrete used as an EAD

Zweygart Fachhandelsgruppe GmbH & Co. KG

ETAG 006 used as EAD ETA – 12/0056

Milletech Fastening System

Milles Teknikkplast AB

Quality approved anchors from Asia Ningbo Londex Industrial Co Ltd is an approved anchor manufacturer in Asia, offering quality and service for oriented professional companies with a long-term strategy definition.

N

ingbo Londex offers first class quality fixing products, services, and customised solutions to its customers all around the world. These services include accurate delivery times, technical advice and support, ETA specialists, easy communication, and flexible service with regards to packaging and quantities. “Applying for a European Technical Assessment is a difficult process and you can only achieve a positive outcome if the item is of the highest quality. Each stage of the production process must be fully under control. Also, the quality – from the raw material to the end – must be traceable and

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the design of the anchor itself must be excellent, as this is the only way to guarantee quality, and consequently the security, that the anchor covers the highest standards,” states Ningbo Londex. “That is why all our staff members solemnly promise the highest quality, on time delivery and responsible after sales service. We are constantly working with the aim of bringing our products closer to our customers and fulfilling all their needs. This approach has opened the way for us to deal with a large number of clients worldwide, gaining their complete trust.” To ensure its quality, Ningbo Londex is fully equipped with state of the art machinery. Its facility, covering an area of 22,500m², is dedicated to manufacturing, assembly, and the packing of all its fixing and fastening products. In addition, any secondary processes are carried out on fully automated stamping machines, zamak injection machines, cold forming machines and bolt threading machines. Also available from Ningbo Londex is LONDEXCAL anchor calculation software, which has been developed to help all professionals in technical calculations. www.ningbolondex.com



MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

Atotech’s global TechCenter network

1.574

To offer the best local service and conduct extensive research and development, Atotech has spent the last decade establishing a global TechCenter network – combining unique capabilities, sophisticated equipment and highly proficient expert teams.

A

totech has always been known for its comprehensive experience, deep market insight and advanced solutions. However, with the addition of the TechCenters it has been able to introduce new and relevant technologies to the market faster and create closer working partnerships with its customers. “Establishing the TechCenters globally has enabled us to increase R&D efforts and exemplifies our commitment to innovation – while providing a leading customer service,” explains Markus Ahr, global product manager corrosion protection at Atotech. “Through the TechCenters we are able to constantly innovate and build new expertise, whilst sharing our knowledge with our customers and industry partners.” Atotech now has 17 TechCenters, in addition to 16 (14 chemistry and 2 equipment) production sites, located in Germany (Berlin, Trebur and Feucht), Italy, the Czech Republic, South Korea, Japan, China (Guangzhou and Shanghai), Taiwan (Kaohsiung and Guanyin), India, Singapore, Canada, the USA (Albany and Rock Hill) and Brazil. “The capabilities we have at each branch is dependent on the local markets needs,” mentions Markus. “Each TechCenter has experts that are locally based to help customers with any requirements. We also have a global service team that can offer additional technical support if needed.” Of the 17 TechCenters, there are 3 based in Europe dedicated to corrosion resistant coatings – in the Czech Republic, Italy, and

in Trebur, Germany. “Our Trebur team is solely focused on corrosion protection – zinc flake coating (paint with lamellar zinc particles) and corrosion resistant coatings (electroplating),” explains Markus. “Thanks to the infrastructure at our Trebur facility we are able to carry out the complete product development process for zinc electroplating and zinc flake coating – from the initial concept to full‑scale production. We can do this due to the three different stages of testing available to us – laboratory, manual (maximum 50 litre capacity) and a full electroplating and zinc flake line, which are a huge benefit when discussing solutions with customers.” Markus continues: “The initial idea behind having full working lines at the Trebur TechCenter was to give us capabilities similar to those at a customer’s site. When a solution arrives at the customer’s factory it has to work – straight away with mass production – there is no time to fine tune anything. With the lines at Trebur we can carry out complete pilot production and ensure that everything is working before it reaches the customer.” A recent example is when Atotech simulated mass production for a customer, by plating 10,000+ pieces over several days. “Being able to carry out such a big test sample was a really big advantage as the customer could see first-hand that the solution we were suggesting, worked in mass production without any problems,” points out Markus. Another benefit of the full lines is that Atotech can give its customers hands on experience of using the products in real production conditions. “On a working production line, it is not easy to trial ideas. That is why we invite our customers and our customers’ customers (OEMs) to our Trebur site. So that we can carry out training and make them aware of the possibilities with electroplating and zinc flake coatings. Often we find that our customers know about the options available, but their customers – the tier 1 or OEM companies – do not realise the potential. We therefore invite them to Trebur so that they can plate parts themselves and go through the process step-by-step.

The TechCenter in Trebur, Germany

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Zintek® ONE HP One layer silver zinc flake base coat

Superior protection with ONE coat

Join us at booth 574 in hall 1

ONE layer – great performance

Economic choice – reliable coat

Atotech’s silver zinc flake base coat eliminates the need for a second coat without compromising on performance. Zintek® ONE HP achieves the outstanding performance of 720 h NSST with only one zinc flake layer. Performance is dependent on part geometry, substrate and application method.

Zintek® ONE HP is designed to reduce process costs, handling costs, energy consumption and coating line occupancy by removing the need for a second coating step commonly required for standard zinc flake base coats. This makes Zintek® ONE HP a cost-effective alternative to multilayer zinc flake applications and even hot dip galvanizing and electroplated corrosion protection finishes.

Atotech Group Untergasse 47 65468 Trebur-Geinsheim +49 6147 50130 info@atotech.com Corrosion Protection Competence Center

720

hours NSST can be achieved with only one zinc flake layer

atotech.com


MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY This has a real impact on them understanding the possibilities.” Whilst the TechCenters have proven popular, there are still some customers that are conservative and reluctant to change to a new product. “Customers are happy to listen to what is new, and they are happy to come and carry out sampling on the new product, but it is still a step-by-step process. It is about showing your capabilities, the technical performance, and the customer seeing the plating speed,” comments Markus. “Where the TechCenters are helping is with customers that have difficult parts that need coating. They know we are able to offer support and advice to them and they can test the solution. It is not always about supplying the newest product, it is about the best system – which electrolyte, passivate, sealer, base coat or top coat fits the specific part. Once a customer has worked with us, and we have created a successful solution together, this is a starting position for further joint developments and process optimisations.” In addition to testing mass production scenarios, providing training operations, and developing existing products, the TechCenters also enable Atotech to create new solutions for customers. “Every year we have new demands from the customer, for higher corrosion and as a business we need to think about how to fulfil them,” points out Markus. “Obviously we look at what we already have in the portfolio and whether we can develop an existing solution to offer new capabilities, but thanks to the knowledge and experience we have within the TechCenter we can also develop new solutions for the market.” A recent example that was developed with the help of the TechCenter is the Zintek® ONE HP – a one layer silver zinc flake base coat that offers superior protection. “The Zintek ONE HP eliminates the need for a second layer (normally Zintek® ONE HP necessary for high corrosion protection) without compromising on performance,” states Markus. “It achieves an outstanding performance of 720 hours NSST and offers customers reduce process and handling costs. Because it is only one layer, it sometimes will not be the best solution for the most complex parts. However, it is still a cost‑effective alternative to multi-layer zinc flake applications, and even hot dip galvanised and electroplated corrosion protection finishes, for a wide range of parts.” Markus is clear that without the facilities at the TechCenter, Atotech would not have been able to develop a product like Zintek ONE HP. “The development of a zinc flake product is very demanding, just changing one additive can change the product dramatically. However, thanks to the TechCenter, and our very experienced staff, we are able to design very special technology that offer real benefits to customers.” Another product that was developed through the TechCenter network was the Tridur® DB – a fluoride-free, two-component deep blue passivate for alkaline and acid zinc nickel surfaces. “We had a customer looking for reliable corrosion protection, but also a blue finish that looked aesthetically good,” explains Markus. “However, the parts they wanted to coat were complex shapes, which made

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it more difficult to achieve an even finish. By looking at different solutions, we were able to create the Tridur DB, which produces an even attractive deep blue finish, even on complex shaped parts and offers outstanding high corrosion resistance of up to 1,000 hours against white corrosion – without using a sealer. When used with a sealer it provides even higher corrosion resistance results, along with a stainless steel appearance on acidic zinc nickel electroplated surfaces.” Atotech not only creates solutions according to customers’ needs, it also looks at potential future requirements in the markets, for instance cobalt-free passivates. “The European Union introduced ‘The Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals’ regulation in 2006 that looks at the production and use of chemical substances and their potential impact on both human health and the environment,” mentions Markus. “In REACH Annex XIV of this regulation, cobalt salts is mentioned on a list of very high concern (SVHC) and the plan was to discuss all of the chemical substances listed by 2017. However, the majority of the last decade was spent on discussing hexavalent chromium, with solutions for the electroplating market now available. This means they are now looking at the other chemical substances, including cobalt salts, and the final decision is still unknown. They might decide it is fine for use, but they could also ban it as soon as 2021/22. This may impact a lot of customers and if Europe bans it then there is the possibility it can also happen elsewhere – such as Asia and the USA.” Atotech has been working on a cobalt‑free passivate for a long time with its first solution available in 2012. Continued R&D efforts lead to development of an updated solution and in 2016 it introduced the EcoTri® NoCo 2.0 – a high performance cobalt and fluoride-free EcoTri® NoCo 2.0 passivate. “The EcoTri NoCo 2.0 offers an innovative feature that is unique in cobalt-free passivates, which is the ability to withstand hydrogen de-embrittlement baking even after passivation,” points out Markus. “After baking at 210ºC for 6 – 8 hours the EcoTri NoCo 2.0 exhibits no significant changes in appearance or evidence of corrosion. Also, the iridescent passivate can be applied over alkaline and acid zinc deposits and is suitable for fasteners and automotive applications.” Markus adds: “With protection against white corrosion lasting up to 144 hours in barrel applications and up to 168 hours in rack applications (NSST after baking), EcoTri NoCo 2.0 offers the same high performance as cobalt-containing passivates.” Being able to meet the ever-changing requirements of its customers and the market is a constant challenge for Atotech, but one it is prepared to meet. “The requirements in all directions have increased, both in corrosion protection and in appearance,” mentions Markus. “Twenty years ago, the part needed to fulfil the corrosion requirement. Now these requirements are even higher and in addition the product has to give a perfect appearance. This is true around the world, and this is a challenge. To fulfil these requirements, we need to put the effort into development and the TechCenters help us meet the demands. We are continuously improving our products step-by-step, we never stop.” www.atotech.com


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*SECONDARY OPERATION MACHINES -POINTING -DRILLING -BROACHING


MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

Transparency and efficiency in production

3.2140

Founded in 1990, Schwer + Kopka GmbH has established itself as a leading provider of process monitoring systems, with its red boxes becoming synonymous with fastener manufacturing sites around the world.

P

rocess and tool monitoring systems have been part of the cold forming industry for many years and ensure efficient and high-quality series production of a range of products, including stamped and bent parts, fasteners, formed parts, forgings, turned parts, as well as for assembly or joining operations. “Process and tool monitoring systems act as the central information control centre between the production floor and the higher level organisational systems – such as MES, CAQ and ERP,” states Wolfgang Faulhaber, managing director at Schwer + Kopka. “They guarantee a consistent product quality of the formed components even at the highest production speeds and protect machines and tools against overload damage at the same time.” By using Schwer + Kopka’s (S+K) systems, customers’ processes can be monitored on a variety of different machines, including single and multi-die presses, boltmakers, nut formers, and thread rollers, plus equipment for secondary operations. “Our systems can monitor every part of the production process and can provide a whole host of information that is valuable for the manufacturer,” mentions Wolfgang. S+K is solely responsible for the complete development and production of the hardware and software for its monitoring systems, which means it is able to react flexibly and quickly to the requirements of its customers and propose the right system for every situation. “Being responsible for the complete package is very important, as you can make sure every part of the system

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meets the highest quality standards and guarantees a first class performance,” points out Ralf Renz, division manager MES solution SK-go. “For instance, superior heat management ensures the electronics in our system consume as little energy as possible, thus keeping operating temperatures low and extending the service life of the electronic components. This means the PC-based systems work fan-less and with the latest Microsoft Windows operating systems.” Ralf continues: “Through our experience and knowledge all of the monitoring terminals of the SK series house the complete electronics for the evaluation of the sensor signals, the visualisation of the process monitoring, and the data acquisition, whilst providing reliable, trouble-free operation even in the typically harsh environmental conditions of a production plant.” Wolfgang adds: “All of our suppliers, where possible, are based within 100km of our headquarters. Only the items we cannot create ourselves – the PC main board or display – are from further afield. This ensures that we are able to guarantee the highest quality components are used for our systems. In addition, we have our own test equipment so we can check that all the components are suitable before we send the system to the customer.”


Monitoring techniques

S+K is able to offer a variety of monitoring techniques depending on the type of production the customer wants to observe. “For processes in the area of series production, monitoring the forces needed to manufacture the parts is the most suitable solution,” mentions Ralf. “Easy to install piezo‑electric sensors measure the loads on the tools such as forming forces, cutting forces or feed forces. The real power consumption of electric drive motors is also used for monitoring.”

4.0

MES software SK-go! Machine terminals Process monitoring

SK-go! is the leading MES software in the fastener industry wide range of data collection terminals SK 200 TP to SK 800 Ralf continues: “In a learn cycle, the monitoring systems automatically memorise the typical force pattern as nominal curves for the parts that are currently running. The curve of each subsequently manufactured part is compared to the learned nominal curve and monitored for limit violations using various methods. Impermissible deviations lead to the immediate shutdown of the machine in order to avoid further defective parts and to protect the machine and tools against overload. Alternatively, sorting gates are activated that automatically separate defective parts. Sophisticated algorithms ensure even minor errors are reliably detected, while at the same time unnecessary machine shutdowns are avoided.” The monitoring techniques S+K is able to supply customers, depending on their needs, include: Envelope monitoring with Mandonic: The monitoring electronics automatically creates an envelope band with upper and lower limits around the learnt force curve pattern. The Mandonic automatic monitoring system dynamically adjusts the width of the band to the spread of the process. It narrows where the force curves have a high repeatability and are stable and widens where the signal is more scattered. Foxmatic: This is a unique monitoring method, which works completely independent of the set envelopes. Foxmatic uses pattern recognition algorithms to tackle those errors that are not always reliably detected or not recognised at all using traditional envelope techniques. These include sporadically occurring errors such as cracks in fastener production, which are normally not detected with the usual random checks. Foxmatic can therefore even detect errors where force signal remains fully within the envelope. Peak force monitoring: For some manufacturing processes, monitoring the maximum forces occurring is the most suitable solution – for example, if the force curves tend to larger scatters. In this case, the current peak force is controlled with a lower and an upper limit. If the force value exceeds the upper limit, or if it is smaller than the lower limit, the machine is stopped immediately. The limits can be easily adapted to the current situation.

process monitoring specialist with more than 17.500 machine terminals installed worldwide high competence through international sales & service partners more than 28 years experience Check out our latest 4.0 innovations:

SK-go!-PTO process data tracker for successful customer audits SK-go!-CM machine condition monitoring

Please visit us at: Hall 3 , Stand 2140

Schwer + Kopka GmbH Herknerstrasse 4 D-88250 Weingarten (Germany) Fon ++49 751 56 164 0 www.schwer-kopka.de


MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY Trend monitoring: Manufacturing processes can also change gradually. This does not always lead to errors, but one should keep an eye on the development. S+K trend monitoring clearly shows at a glance how the process signals change over time. Easily adjustable upper and lower trend limits ensure the process cannot move away more than allowed from the start. Monitoring process stability: Technical production processes always have fluctuations. For impeccable products, however, these should move within narrow limits. S+K measures the repeatability of the process signals (force curves) and uses them to calculate the PQI factor (process quality index) as a measure of process quality. Good and stable running processes show a PQI that is close to 100%. Just set a minimum PQI to stop a swelling process in time. Joining monitoring: Joining and assembly processes are often characterised in that certain force and/or travel points must be reached for a fail-safe joining product. S+K’s Vision 100 software is specifically designed for monitoring joining operations such as press fitting, riveting, clinching, caulking and similar operations. The user can simply position the measurement windows for the particular application in free combination and specify how the joining force curve should pass through the windows. If desired, the force curve or certain segments of the force curve can be controlled by a dynamic envelope.

a positive, but also a negative for us as a business,” explains Wolfgang. “The fastener sector as a whole is very traditional, which means Industry 4.0 is a big step for a lot of companies. We have customers contacting us saying they are interested in Industry 4.0 and they want to buy our system, but they don’t know what they need or what they want to measure.” Wolfgang continues: “We are experts in networking and monitoring, but we are not experts in production. It is the customer that is the expert, so they need to define what measurements they want to record, and why. We can then work with them in partnership to provide a customised solution that can give them exactly what they require.” To enable customers to collect all relevant data from the connected machines and monitor the results, S+K has introduced its MES software SK-go®, with a new version – SK-go Express being launched at Fastener Fair Stuttgart. “SK-go is able to tap into the data from all types of machines and provide vital information such as up and down times, reasons for breakdowns, production volumes and speeds,” points out Ralf. “From the gained data the system can calculate a range of statistics that clearly present flaws in production, which can be addressed by production management. This data can also be stored and archived to generate reliable evidence of stable, repeatable and controlled processes.”

Suitable sensors

Each process monitoring system is also dependent on the quality of the measuring signal and thus on a suitable sensor type and the selected measuring point. “We develop, produce and sell a wide range of analogue and binary sensors for the most diverse areas of industrial sensing for the measurement of forces, pressure, strain, acoustic emission, vibrations, power consumption of electric motors, travels, angles of rotation, temperatures, etc,” mentions Wolfgang. “If you want to improve something in your production, you have to measure it and this always begins with an idea… and a sensor.” S+K can provide a wide range of typical and commonly used sensors, depending on the application, including Superflex probes, Axflex longitudinal dowel, Bridgeflex, Diskflex, sensor screws, force measuring rings/load cells, Powerflex, X-Flex, rotary encoder/position transducer, and special designs. “For electrical processing of the sensor signals, we also produce a programme of highly dynamic signal amplifiers. All sensors, together with the appropriate amplifiers, are designed to connect easily to our process monitoring systems,” says Ralf. “Thanks to our 30 years of experience, we are able to advise customers on the selection of the right monitoring system and sensor, depending on the measuring and monitoring task.”

Developing in partnership

To ensure its systems and sensors are always meeting the needs of the industry, S+K works with the leading fastener machine manufacturers. “This kind of partnership is mutually beneficial, as the machine manufacturers can gather a large amount of information on their machines, and how they operate under different conditions, and we can learn about new features and possibilities,” points out Wolfgang. “There are so many different types of cold forming machines, and new ones are entering the market all the time. We therefore need to make sure we are able to supply solutions for every machine. The market is fast and if you are not one of the first you have missed the opportunity.” S+K is also working with these companies on Industry 4.0, which is currently a huge topic within the market. “Industry 4.0 has been

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“Our state of the art monitoring systems are used on every continent and enable us to provide valuable information to manufacturing customers that are looking to monitor and improve their production processes,” concludes Wolfgang. “Processing monitoring will undoubtedly be at the forefront of where the fastener industry will be heading in the future. Through our systems, which can be used on old machines and the latest technology, customers will be able to analyse key processes to find the most optimal solutions – guaranteeing first class production. We have introduced a multitude of trend setting, technological developments over the last 30 years and we will continue to do so.” www.schwer-kopka.de


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Highlights Suitable for special screws, bolts, solid and other special parts – Up to 250 parts per minute – Wire diameter from 4 mm up to 12 mm – Equipped with Toggle Action system for smooth forming process – Turn key solution


MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

New range of thread rolling dies for rolling hard parts

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HEROSLAM will present its revolutionary new technology of thread rolling dies made with new steels and special alloys, for rolling hard parts, at Fastener Fair Stuttgart.

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he new range of thread rolling tools are made from a variety of special steel grades, including 12.9, 14.9 and 15.9, and include progressive roll-on thread rolling dies for rolling heat treated parts; special flat and cylindrical thread rolling dies for aerospace fasteners; as well as new flat dies for Mathread® and ojival fasteners. Other rolling tools in the range include milled flat dies for woodscrews, plastic screws, and self-tapping screws; planetary thread rolling dies for the production of nails, woodscrews and Mathread fasteners; as well as a range of knurling, grooving and cylindrical dies. “Our revolutionary new range of steels, combined with our special made in-house coatings, significantly increase tool life when rolling hard parts or parts after heat treatment,” explains HEROSLAM S. A. L. “This helps reduce machine preparation and changes, as well as minimising machine down time, which all leads to a significant reduction in manufacturing costs.”

As part of its international expansion strategy, during Fastener Fair Stuttgart HEROSLAM will also welcome enquiries from international tooling distributors and reps interested in representing its products in their countries.

Living for innovation

CAN-ENG commissions line for automotive fasteners

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EWMenn GmbH & Co KG is a worldwide partner in the fastener industry when it comes to the highest demands regarding precision, efficiency and flexibility of flat die thread rolling machines.

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s a technological leader EWMenn is continuously ahead of the curve and regularly presents innovative achievements, offering unique features such as the patented ADM® Adaptive Die Match system that, in combination with a Marposs process control unit, automatically sets and, if necessary, corrects die match while the machine is in production. In combination with other developments, such as the hydraulic die carrier clamping and push button die match systems, EWMenn machines are user-friendly and enable quick and easy repeatable set-up. In 2015 EWMenn also became a member of the WAFIOS Group and can, together with WAFIOS Umformtechnik, offer a complete portfolio of cold formers and pointers to go alongside its high performance thread and profile rolling machines and threading dies. “We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to our stand during the Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2019, where our team will be presenting our newest technologies and will be able to confer with visitors about their issues and business requirements. Together we will be able to develop solutions in a close cooperation,” comments EWMenn.

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CAN-ENG Furnaces International Ltd has recently commissioned a state of the art continuous mesh belt heat treat system for the production of high-quality automotive fasteners for an Italian company based in the Piedmont region.

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AN-ENG was chosen to supply its systems based on proven reliability, efficiency, and soft-part-handling features – hallmarks of CAN-ENG’s mesh belt furnace systems. The new, high volume fastener system features energy efficient combustion and waste heat recovery systems, an atmosphere controlled mesh belt hardening system, oil quench, post wash system, temper furnace, soluble oil system, bi‑directional conveyor discharge, and CAN-ENG’s Level 2 SCADA system. Also, CAN-ENG’s PET™ system provides the user with access to vital Industry 4.0 data that includes product traceability, detailed process data for continuous process improvements, comprehensive equipment diagnostics, cost analysis, and inventory management. The top of the line system also integrates CAN-ENG’s Energy Reduction System (ERS™), which significantly reduces the energy requirements of the system. The system was commissioned Q4 2018 and has met, and exceeded the clients’ performance expectations. Through proven results, CAN-ENG Furnaces’ continuous mesh belt heat treatment systems remain an integral technology for processing high quality automotive fasteners. As the demands of the automotive industry grow ever-increasingly, CAN-ENG’s mesh belt heat treatment systems repeatedly, demonstrate their capability of meeting and exceeding processing standards that include AIAG CQI-9 requirements. www.can-eng.com


SPECIAL DIE SOLUTIONS FOR SPECIAL DIE SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR APPLICATION YOUR APPLICATION

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Come visit us at Stand 1094, hall 1 www.SKAKO.com


MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

Targeting zero defect on double ended collar studs and brake booster bolts

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Italian-based Dimac Srl has been working with ATF Inc – a US manufacturer from Lincolnwood, Illinois – on controlling the complete range of high-quality double ended collar studs and brake booster bolts, up to 250mm long, for the automotive industry.

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o meet the challenge, Dimac restyled its MCV3 machine, with the bending inspection done in sequence together with crack detection and heat treatment inspection by eddy current technology. Thread profiles and full 360° dimensional controls can also be carried out. Hutch Zamudio, sorting department manager at ATF Inc, explains: “Every single bolt is picked up and turned 360° while the rotary table indexes. The complete bolt profile is scanned in 3D by the side profile cameras and the vision software performs a complete bending check with the highest possible accuracy.” MCV3 can be used 24 hours a day, across the three shifts of ATF’s sorting facility. “When we started working with Dimac on our company specifications, I personally followed the machine pre-acceptance in Italy with my colleagues and the final acceptance here in Lincolnwood,” mentions Hutch. “Everything fulfilled our expectations in terms of performances and accuracy of the inspection. This machine is really user-friendly to set-up and we can changeover from one part to a new one in a very short time.” Talking about DRA – Dimac Remote Assistance, Hutch adds: “Dimac after sales service in North America is fantastic, the staff of Angor-Intools – Dimac’s North American representative – always give a very prompt online teleservice assistance, as well as offering us support and advices for any improvements of the machine’s inspection capabilities.” ATF’s managers expressed their satisfaction for the partnership developed with Dimac and Angor-Intools during the last two years. “Dimac has been able to meet our requirements in terms of 100% inspection of very complex parts, which the automotive industry is challenging us to meet every day.” The MCV3 model for double ended collar studs, anchor bolts and brake booster bolts, is an example of how Dimac is constantly committed to meet, and possibly exceed, customers’ demands, for any kind of complex sorting. Just like the whole range of Dimac machines – this series benefits from the MCVx vision inspection system, an advanced dedicated software for the inspection of fasteners, and is the result of 20 years’ research and development, which Dimac carried out – and keeps on carrying out – with some of the most important fastener OEMs around the world. Dimac high-end technology integrated with new technologies such as robotics and AI, will be exhibited at Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2019 – stand 1818, hall 3. www.dimacsrl.com

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Dimac has been able to meet our requirements in terms of 100% inspection of very complex parts, which the automotive industry is challenging us to meet every day.”


mayes warwick quarter page-2018-outlines.pdf

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MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

Inspection System OPTISORT W GEFRA has been developing and manufacturing the well known brand OPTISORT for more than 20 years, working with leading fastener companies worldwide who have come to rely on OPTISORT’s quality control.

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OTW 800

EFRA GmbH points out that the high demands of end user customers make it necessary to continually expand the possibilities of the inspecting criteria. Today, it is not enough to measure the parts and inspect the surface for scratches, coating defects and cracks. That is why GEFRA offers a wide range of additional features to meet customers’ high demands, including: LineScan for measuring the flatness of stamping parts. Eddy current for checking hardness. Shape from shading (SFS) for inspecting the smallest surface defects.

Inspection system with eddy current (red coin) the spatial structure, as well as texture. However, with the SFS process users do not receive any explicit height values, but only information regarding incline and curvature of the surface. For this reason, this technique is only recommended for surface inspection.

All of these additional functions from GEFRA can be added to the standard inspection system without losing capacity and customers still benefit from the same easy handling they are used to with the AutoControl software. The EC is integrated in the program of OPTISORT and is shown on a monitor

“The big advantage of SFS is in the fact that with highly reflective surfaces, topology features can be clearly separated from texture (brightness) characteristics and high-resolution intensity images can be created,” mentions GEFRA.

LineScan of the conical washer During the optical inspection the control for hardness (yes/no) will be done with a coil for stamping parts. The structure of the parts will be continuously inspected with 8 frequencies at a speed of up to 500 parts per minute. GEFRA highlights that the calibration of the hardness test is also easy and user- friendly.

Shape from shading (SFS)

In the SFS method, four grey value images of a surface are taken with illumination from various directions. Using the differences in the grey values, images of the surface are calculated, which reflect

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OTW 800 with SFS


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MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

WAFIOS in-house exhibition set for May 2019

WAFIOS’ in-house exhibitions have become an established international platform for customers and people interested in cold forming technology. This year’s event will take place in Wuppertal, Germany, from 8th – 11th May 2019 and promises innovative technologies and interesting presentations.

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he 12 th edition of the popular in-house exhibition will present premieres from the world of precision parts forming machinery amongst others on more than 1,400m² of floor space. Machinery on display will include cold former HT 5-40 (1 die 2 blow with oscillating die block) – equipped with a

The cold former HT 5-40 (1-die-2 blow with oscillating die block)

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Schwer + Kopka system for process and machine status control, as well as the high performance thread and profile rolling machine AF 102 from EWMenn GmbH & Co KG. As usual, specialist lectures on current topics and numerous co-exhibitors from the industry will round off the exhibition programme. Detailed information on the exhibition, lecture programme, co‑exhibitors and much more, is available on www.hausmesse.wafios.com The high performance thread and profile rolling machine AF 102

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MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

MacDermid Enthone Academy Q&A Nadia Billen, global R&D special projects & plating academy manager

advanced or expert level – depending on the level of detail required. Programmes can be tailored for applicators of surface finishing processes and designers involved in automotive manufacturing.”

How long does the training take?

“Training sessions at the Academy are usually between one and three days and include a mixture of class-based lectures, workshop discussions and practical training in laboratories and pilot lines. This allows the introduction of concepts behind the companies’ processes, as well as demonstrating the practice of them.”

Where does the training take place?

What is the MacDermid Enthone Academy?

“The MacDermid Enthone Academy, formerly known as the ‘Plating Academy’, was initiated in 2003 as a comprehensive technical training course for its employees, customers and OEMs – covering both theory and practical skills in key processes and technologies. The aim of the Academy is to create an extensive network of skilled people who can solve technical issues and deliver unrivalled service and expertise to customers. Ultimately, it has been designed to provide continuous improvement across the industry, which is evolving to meet new market needs.”

Who is the training aimed at?

“The Academy covers training for a range of audiences, including newcomers and non-chemists. Even for those with extensive prior knowledge of plating processes, it is important to have an up to date view of the latest technologies and practices. Each training session is tailored to meet the needs of the participants and is based on either basic,

“Training sessions take place globally, based on MacDermid Enthone’s common principles and aims. It is important that everyone’s capabilities are consistent across the different regions, so that every customer base has the same level of service. Workshops are also customised to address specific technological challenges imposed by industry and government requirements throughout the world – to help make courses as relevant as possible. The classes are based at MacDermid Enthone’s state of the art facilities worldwide, including Langenfeld in Germany, Connecticut in the USA, and Shanghai in China, amongst other locations. Based on request, training sessions can also take place at customers’ or OEMs’ facilities.”

What will participants learn at the sessions?

“Participants can pick and choose the sessions they want to attend, based on their current requirements. Topics covered at the Academy include technical areas such as anti-corrosion, decorative, plating on plastics, hard chrome, electroless nickel, metallurgy, surface conditioning, PET and hardcoated films for a range of applications. Troubleshooting is also a key part of the teaching framework, as it encourages innovation and helps to position customers and OEMs as experts in their fields. Methodologies such as Failure Mode Effect Analysis (FMEA) and Six Sigma play an important role during training. This provides an advanced and holistic approach to solving problems in the field.”

The MacDermid Enthone Academy, formerly known as the ‘Plating Academy’, was initiated in 2003 as a comprehensive technical training course for its employees, customers and OEMs – covering both theory and practical skills in key processes and technologies.” 15 6 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019



MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY How does the training benefit the wider industry?

“Participants can benefit from increased confidence and an improved skillset through taking part in continuous learning, which has an impact on the wider industry. Gaining expertise in troubleshooting methodologies can help speed up and optimise problem solving methodologies, which can save both time and costs in the long-term. In addition, MacDermid Enthone has found that learning in a practical environment and using real life case studies, can help inspire innovation across the industry.

The curriculum enables participates to gain a high and uniform level of process knowledge and has also driven an exceptional level of communication, well beyond expectations. Sharing the training programme with customers and OEMs proved to be an excellent opportunity to network and exchange ideas. The interactions facilitated by the Academy have enabled strong working relationships with stakeholders across the industry supply chain and have improved MacDermid Enthone’s understanding of their requirements. The large number of external Academy training sessions that have taken place shows that the Academy is recognised by OEMs and tier 1 automotive suppliers as delivering high value training. The Academy also plays an important role in providing a wider understanding of global trends in the industry – helping to promote innovation and set a high standard for quality. In addition, the sessions include up to date information on regional legislations, such as Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulations, New Waste Water, Air and Ground Registration in China or the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to help ensure plating companies across the world comply with regulations.”

Where does this leave the future of the surface coating industry?

“The automotive and electronics market is expected to both grow and become substantially integrated in the next decade, and the challenge for the surface coating industry will be to keep up with the latest technologies, products and processes. As such, customer demand will most likely increase for coating innovations that require less maintenance and lower overall costs. Training is therefore essential to ensure the industry can offer consistent capabilities to meet future challenges in the industry.” www.macdermidenthone.com/industrial


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MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

Teudeloff celebrates 25th anniversary

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Established in 1994, German-based Teudeloff started business with only two employees. Today the company has 15 highly motivated employees at the German site and 35 tool specialists at its TiL (Tooling International Limited) production site in Birmingham, UK.

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uring this time Teudeloff has also seen significant growth in its customer base, with its customers spread out over 30 countries – mostly in Europe, the USA and Far East. “We are one of the leading suppliers in recess pins and punches for the fastener industry,” states Teudeloff. “Together with our production at TiL, we are able to focus on quality in geometry tool life and delivery performance.” With a very customer-oriented service, Teudeloff works out the fitting tool concept for each customer individually – adapted to requirements concerning tooling, service storage and logistics. The company highlights that its key competences lie in recess tooling, such as punches and pins for fasteners in cold forming – in all geometries – available with TORX®, TORX plus, six lobe, Pozi, Phillips, hexagonal, 12‑Multipoint, bihexagonal, special as standard or to drawing.

Teudeloff is also able to develop and optimise the tool life, reduce tool costs, improve productivity in production, as well as guarantee tool supply, with a quick and reliable delivery time, storage and delivery concepts. “We have the biggest TORX stock in Europe, with almost all sizes and penetration depths – in various materials and coatings including our top quality CodeT® – available from stock,” states Teudeloff. “We exhibit these capabilities at shows around the world, including wire® Düsseldorf, IFE Las Vegas, Fastener Expo Shanghai and will do so again at the upcoming Fastener Fair Stuttgart.” www.teudeloff.de

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Rebar measurement like never before ZUMBACH Electronics, a leading supplier of non-contact measuring technologies for the metal and steel industry, has introduced its newest PROFILEMASTER SPS 80 gauge for in‑line measurement of any rebar type.

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he sophisticated capabilities of ZUMBACH’s PROFILEMASTER SPS 80 enables the measurement of rebar products in hot rolling processes. With a unique processing feature, the full contour of a rebar is also captured and the cross section is extracted in such a way that core diameter, rib height, width and height, among other characteristics, can be measured and monitored. The PROFILEMASTER SPS 80 is specially designed to measure the rebar in the rolling mill without having limitations in terms of rolling speed. Since many rolling mills produce rebar in more than one strand, ZUMBACH’s PROFILEMASTER can handle up to three strands simultaneously with one single gauge. Every individual strand is measured and related statistics can be generated. ZUMBACH’s experience of supplying measuring systems into the metal and steel market helped it in designing a solid and reliable system for such applications and will also help its customers with higher quality and higher efficiency. The PROFILEMASTER family consists of various models and, depending on the product size, ZUMBACH can offer the best suitable model to accommodate the complete range of products. PROFILEMASTER systems are available with up to eight laser/camera modules, measuring continuously the cross section of the moving product. A powerful PC-based processor combines the captured line images of the individual cameras to yield the momentary cross section of the profile. All relevant dimensions such as width, height, angle, and radius or other geometric quantities, are computed to characterise the full cross sectional picture. An operator friendly graphic display of this data allows the monitoring of the product during the whole process. The nominal values for the profile can be directly imported from CAD design files, which allows easy and problem free configuration of the device.


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MANAGEMENT + SYSTEMS

Digitalisation in the supply chain By Richard van Hooijdonk, trendwatcher, futurist and international keynote speaker Digital technology has had a transformative influence on a wide variety of sectors over the years, including finance, retail, education, healthcare, agriculture, and construction. It now looks like supply chains are set to go on a similar path and experience a digital transformation of their own, spearheaded by emerging technologies such as robotics and automation, drones and self-driving systems, the IoT and big data, as well as blockchain.

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ogether with these technological trends, customer expectations have increased dramatically in recent years, in part due to a major boom in e-commerce. Today’s customers want their orders to be delivered faster and cheaper than ever before, and companies are often forced to introduce drastic changes to satisfy their demands and create a smarter, more efficient supply chain. “There is no doubt that digitalisation is having an incredible impact on supply chains and operations across the globe and is here to stay. Companies are faced with many options as new products and applications enter the market and gain acceptance in the industry. Having a purposeful strategy for supply chain digitalisation is now essential to assess the new technological landscape and chart a way forward to reap the benefits and stay ahead of the competition,” comments Lisa Harrington, the president of the supply chain consulting company L Harrington Group LLC, in DHL’s report ‘Digitalisation and the supply chain: Where are we and what’s next?’

hour and to reduce its operating costs by 20%. According to Amazon, the robots aren’t meant to replace human workers altogether, but rather to make their jobs easier and help them become more efficient. However, that doesn’t mean that the warehouse of the future won’t become fully automated eventually. In fact, the Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com has already announced the opening of the world’s first warehouse operated exclusively by robots in Shanghai.

Robots are taking over warehouses

Robotics and automation are viewed by many as the biggest threat to the future of human labour, and this designation may not be far from the truth. In a report ‘Jobs Lost, Jobs Gained: Workforce Transitions In A Time Of Automation’, the McKinsey Global Institute estimates that anywhere between 400 and 800 million people will lose their jobs to automation by 2030. While some professions are safer from automation than others, jobs in the supply chain will be among those most at risk, due to their highly repetitive and predictable nature. In fact, robots have already become a regular feature in many warehouses around the world, with Amazon positioned as the leading force behind this growing trend. Amazon was one of the first companies to recognise the benefits of robotic technology, and it all began with the US$775 million acquisition of the robotics startup Kiva Systems in 2012. Today, the company operates a fleet of more than 100,000 warehouse robots throughout its global fulfilment network. Any time a customer submits an order, one of the robots drives to the shelving unit that contains the required item, picks it up, and transports it to a human worker to retrieve the item. The adoption of robotic technology has allowed Amazon to reduce the average time required to fulfil an order from two to one

Solving last mile delivery issues with drones and self‑driving vehicles

Further up the supply chain, drones and self-driving vehicles are also becoming an increasingly common sight. They allow companies to address some of the issues that have plagued the supply chain for years, such as last-mile delivery. As in the case of warehouse robotics, Amazon once again finds itself at the forefront of this development, with Jeff Bezos announcing plans for a drone delivery service back in 2013. While these plans haven’t materialised yet, Amazon has already tested the technology on multiple sites in the UK, and it’s only a matter of time before Amazon Prime Air becomes a reality. Drones could also have other useful applications besides delivery, such as inventory management. Inaccurate inventory records cost companies billions of dollars every year, but drones could make this problem a thing of the past. Companies could use drones to keep track of their inventory in real time and make sure that there are no discrepancies between inventory records and actual stock. On the other hand, delivery with self-driving systems is already here. For instance, Kroger, the largest supermarket chain in the United States, recently joined forces with Nuro, a self-driving car

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MANAGEMENT + SYSTEMS

start-up, to launch a driverless grocery delivery service in Scottsdale, Arizona. The service will enable Kroger customers to place orders online and have them delivered to their doorstep by an autonomous delivery vehicle called the R1. “Unmanned delivery will be a game changer for local commerce, and together with Kroger, we’re thrilled to test this new delivery experience to bring grocery customers new levels of convenience and value,” Dave Ferguson, Nuro’s co-founder, said in a statement.

The IoT and big data provide valuable insight into every aspect of the supply chain

The Internet of Things and big data are also expected to play a major role in the upcoming transformation of the supply chain. The proliferation of IoT devices in recent years and rapidly decreasing costs of this technology are making it increasingly simple for companies to incorporate smart sensors into a wide variety of products and gather unprecedented amounts of information about various aspects of their supply chain. For example, companies could embed sensors into factory equipment or delivery trucks to monitor their condition and detect potential problems before it’s too late, minimising their maintenance costs. Furthermore, sensors can monitor the location of delivery trucks and delivery personnel to make sure everything goes as planned, and they can be embedded into various products to track their exact location at all times or monitor the temperature they’re stored at. Companies could also choose to share some of this information with customers to allow them to keep tabs on their orders throughout their journey via an App. However, collecting vast amounts of information won’t be enough on its own. Companies also need to find a way to make sense of it, and that’s where big data comes in. For example, it allows companies to identify transportation bottlenecks and determine optimal routes for their delivery trucks. It also allows them to gain valuable insight into customer behaviour and use it to predict future trends and anticipate demand. By analysing a wide variety of factors, such as historical shopping habits,

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social media trends, and weather data, companies can predict when demand for certain products is going to soar and adjust their inventory accordingly, significantly reducing the number of lost sales.

Blockchain could bring increased security and transparency

Blockchain technology could help solve one of the biggest issues associated with the supply chain – lack of transparency. For instance, Maersk, the world’s largest shipping company, recently joined forces with IBM to launch a blockchain powered shipping platform called TradeLens. The platform creates a shared, immutable record of shipping transactions that allows all participants to keep track of critical information about each shipment in the supply chain in ‘real time’. “TradeLens is leveraging the benefits of blockchain as a technology for distributed information sharing,” Marie Wieck, the general manager of IBM Blockchain, told Forbes. “Whatever might be needed by customs and regulators to ensure efficient and safe trade, all of that information is available in ‘real time’ to the participants.” The TradeLens platform was used to capture more than 154 million shipping events in ports around the world during its initial 12 month trial, which revealed some very promising results. According to Wieck, the platform can help users reduce a shipment’s transit time by as much as 40% and save them thousands of dollars per transaction. For example, discovering the location of a shipping container could take as many as ten steps and five people in the past, but TradeLens can bring that number down to just one step and one person. So far, 94 organisations from all over the world have signed up for the platform, including more than 20 port and terminal operators, international customs authorities, logistics companies, freight forwarders, and cargo


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MANAGEMENT + SYSTEMS owners. Blockchain technology could allow companies to simplify the global trade even further by introducing smart contracts that will automatically process payments as soon as the conditions stipulated in the contract are met. Just like many other sectors before it, digital technology is about to transform the supply chain as well. Digitalisation will enable companies to address a number of issues and create a smarter, more efficient supply chain. Whether it’s using robots to optimise warehouse management or solving last mile delivery with drones and self-driving vehicles, using the IoT and big data to improve end-to-end visibility and anticipate demand or increasing security and transparency with blockchain, almost every aspect of the supply chain is set to experience major disruption. To remain competitive in today’s digital economy, companies will have to adopt these emerging technologies or risk being left behind.

About the author

Trendwatcher, futurist and international keynote speaker Richard van Hooijdonk has had sessions attended by over 420,000 people. With his international research team, he investigates tech trends such as robotics, drone technology, autonomous transport systems, Internet of Things, biotech, nanotech, neurotech, blockchain, 3D and 4D printing, as well as augmented and virtual reality, and their impact on various industries. His findings are published weekly in the form of compelling articles, e-books and white papers.

References:

https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/future-of-work/ jobs-lost-jobs-gained-what-the-future-of-work-will-mean-forjobs-skills-and-wages https://www.technologyreview.com/s/611295/humans-are-stillcrucial-to-amazons-fulfillment-process/ https://www.forbes.com/sites/andriacheng/2018/12/10/ amazons-first-new-york-fulfillment-center-should-give-rivalretailers-another-cause-for-worry/#34690e9614c7 https://www.businessinsider.com/jeff-bezos-predicted-amazonwould-be-making-drone-deliveries-by-2018-2018-12 https://www.forbes.com/sites/lanabandoim/2018/12/19/krogeris-using-unmanned-autonomous-vehicles-to-deliver-groceriesin-arizona/#1e9023262f57 https://news.mit.edu/2017/drones-relay-rfid-signals-inventorycontrol-0825 https://postandparcel.info/94041/news/innovation/dhlpublishes-report-digitalization-supply-chain/ https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaeldelcastillo/2018/08/09/ ibm-maersk-blockchain-platform-adds-92-clients-as-part-ofglobal-launch-1/#4a877ed968a4

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MANAGEMENT + SYSTEMS

Logistics management via inconsoMIS App European logistics software provider, inconso AG, has introduced a mobile information system inconsoMIS that has been enhanced both functionally and graphically, with a clear user interface designed for commercial smartphones.

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ompletely reworked by the logistics software specialist, inconso MIS is a comprehensive App that provides a precise overview of process and performance statistics – anytime and anywhere. The new release now provides users with configurable real time information, for example on the number of orders, order processing, or capacity utilisation in individual warehouse areas. Key performance indicator criteria can also be defined down to a granular level and displayed using freely selectable visualisation modes. The new release of inconsoMIS cannot only display the KPIs of a single location but can also be used at multiple locations. As well as this, the App includes multiple languages and offers a quantitative and qualitative basis for daily logistics monitoring and control, as well as process optimisation. The user interface for mobile devices is based on HTML5 technologies, and the App can be used on Android as well as iOS devices. The current version runs with the mobile operating system versions Android 4.1 and up (min SDK level 16) and iOS 9 and up. Headquartered in Bad Nauheim, Hessen, Germany, inconso AG is a consulting and software provider for logistics solutions in Europe. The company offers sound consulting, innovative and practical software products, and professional system integration

solutions for optimising customer specific logistics processes. The main focus areas are warehouse, transport and supply chain execution and visibility solutions with inconsoWMS, inconsoTMS, inconsoSCE and add-ons of the inconso Logistics Suite. The company has over 1,200 employees at 31 locations worldwide and over 5,000 customers in more than 70 countries.

EDP is rebranded to Kerridge Commercial Systems Kerridge Commercial Systems, a provider of integrated software solutions for manufacturing, wholesale and distribution, has announced Electronic Data Processing Limited (EDP) has been rebranded as Kerridge Commercial Systems (KCS).

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ver four decades of steady growth and diversification, KCS has acquired a number of companies each trading with a different name. With that in mind and after much research and consideration, the company decided to reduce the complexity of the brand by incorporating each of the new companies within the KCS name. “We have grown from a business with 60 people to an organisation with more than 850 and are now part of a strong global brand. The EDP team have worked within very similar markets to our new KCS colleagues for many years now. It is a great opportunity to combine our industry knowledge and expertise to continue to service our customers, old and new, with innovative, market leading solutions with a strong unified company name,” commented Pete Clegg, sales account manager at KCS. UK-based KCS provides software to 15,000 customers worldwide, offering end to end ERP solutions including supply

168 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

chain management, financial management, CRM, warehouse management, Business Intelligence, ePOS, and more – specifically for the wholesale, distribution, and manufacturing markets. The rebrand supports the company’s strategy of continued growth and follows five acquisitions during the last 15 months in the UK and the Netherlands. “We are endeavouring to ensure the rebrand has a minimal effect on our customers so it is very much business as usual. As previously confirmed we will continue to support the EDP products and customers with the same level of excellence and professionalism all of our customers have come to expect as the company transitions to the KCS brand. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the loyal EDP customers for their continued support during this exciting development in the company’s long history,” added Ian Bendelow, CEO of KCS.


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Visit us: 19.-21. March 2019 Messe Stuttgart/Germany Hall 5, Stand 3034 Further products with our technical approvals: solar fastener, hanger bolts, DIN 931, DIN 933, DIN 934, wedge anchor, bi-metal self-drilling screws, concrete bolts Schäfer + Peters GmbH ● Zeilbaumweg 32 ● DE-74613 Öhringen Tel. +49 (0) 7941 6094-0 ● info@schaefer-peters.com ● www.schaefer-peters.com


MANAGEMENT + SYSTEMS

Battle skill shortages and increase productivity Over the past 12 months, the UK manufacturing industry has faced an array of challenges, both globally and domestically. However, arguably the biggest operational challenge that UK manufacturers face is the growing skills gap within the industry. According to recent research by the British Chamber of Commerce (BCC), 81% of manufacturers and 70% of service sector firms reported difficulties in finding skilled staff to complete everyday manufacturing tasks.

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he question is how can manufacturers withstand the ongoing uncertainty and best prepare for the future? The answer is through greater manufacturing and warehouse automation. By using a combination of OrderWise Manufacturing and OrderWise mobile WMS devices, businesses can streamline all aspects of their manufacturing operation. These systems offer complete BOM management, tools to handle multiple options, revisions, sub‑contracted processes, record batch/serial traceability, labour costs, by-products and much more. When combined with the cutting edge barcode scanning technology of OrderWise mobile WMS devices, businesses can further benefit from fast, accurate and paperless management of component picking and works order processes. By using these devices alongside OrderWise Manufacturing, businesses can rest assured their processes are more streamlined, removing the complexity of the operation for less skilled workers whilst also getting greater productivity from existing staff.

Structured management of manufacturing quality control

For manufacturing businesses it is often important to have procedures in place to carefully review different stages of the product building process, in order to maintain quality and control throughout. When a new manufactured product is being launched, a build process is being amended or bespoke work is being done, there may also be the desire for an additional revision check in order to add greater structure over quality management. To aid with this, OrderWise has seen new functionality added recently for a Bill of Materials (BOM) approval workflow. When using this new approval process, manufactured revisions can have three different approval statuses; draft, approved and archived. This allows revisions for bespoke and regulated products to be thoroughly checked before being committed to works orders, whilst also ensuring costs are accounted for correctly, and accurate margins are achieved. www.orderwise.co.uk

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“The thing that we found OrderWise are great for, are helping us develop as a joint partner; we don’t look at OrderWise as just a supplier. For us, OrderWise are a partnership, who work very, very closely with us. They come up with some fantastic ideas and they help us to continue to grow.”


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1.4529 HCR | CRC V

1.4529 HCR

CRC V

Directly from stock! Extreme surroundings require special quality characteristics of the used material. The application of the correct material is essential in those areas where chlorides, salts or sulfur dioxide are used. Material 1.4529 HCR belongs to Corrosion Resistance Class (CRC) V, due to its very strong resistance, and is obligatory for fixation of load-bearing components in swimming halls and in tunnel construction. We are the specialist in high-quality fasteners made from stainless high-grade steel and special materials. We are used to extreme conditions and face the toughest challenges on a daily basis. We never lose sight of our aim to give the customer just what they want. And we always offer that little bit extra. So, why not contact us? We are looking forward to your call.

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In the course of the harmonisation of standards the category of Corrosion Resistance Classes (CRC) has been regulated by the Eurocode 3/DIN EN 1993-1-4, annex A. Many European countries are therefore encouraged to consider these newly determined stainless steel grades for the calculation and construction of steel structures. TOBSTEEL is the only stockholder for fasteners who covers all Corrosion Resistance Classes (CRC) I to V according to Eurocode 3 – annex A.


MANAGEMENT + SYSTEMS

Booming trend in fastener and fixing packaging

By Maris Rumba, business development manager, Kronus SIA

5.3002

There is a boom in products moving from Asia to Europe for the fastener industry, which has resulted in an increase in problems moving goods through these channels. The goal therefore, as it is in any supply chain, is to deliver goods in pristine condition – quickly and with less costs. In most cases local packaging options that satisfy Asian requirements are not the best option for doing business with partners in the EU. What happens is that a business must absorb the losses when they find out the packaging they use is not approved for the EU. Not only is a business/producer tasked with having to get their goods to the EU without being damaged, but you also must make sure the packaging is not going to stall your load at customs.

Avoiding the problems

To mitigate the risk of disappointing European partners, damaging your goods during transportation and other risks, Euro pallets with collars are the solution. Euro pallets (EPALs) are the standardised packaging option throughout the European Union. They tick off the regulatory list nicely. EPALs are the solution for conveying goods from Asia to Europe with less stress and worry. Adding pallet collars to a certified EPAL creates a box that allows you the flexibility to increase or decrease the size of the container. This is especially helpful when shipping smaller parts such as fasteners.

I

t is imperative that goods arrive in top condition and that losses are minimalised, not only because of the financial implications but also to build strong business relationships between EU and Asian partners. Making sure that your business is building the right reputation starts by ensuring your goods arrive to retailers and end users in the best condition and delivered on the time schedule as promised.

The problems when conveying goods from Asia to Europe

Hands down one of the riskiest times for losses is during transportation. Most would guess that damages and losses are directly linked to rough handling during transportation. While rough handling is a contributing factor, loss and damages are more connected to the type of packaging that is used. The right packaging is vital to the safety and security of products and of course it can help to prevent the damages rough handling during transportation can cause. Packaging is paramount not only for protection but to make the transition through customs easier. The EU has uniform standards for packaging that Asia does not have, which can be a big problem for Asian companies wanting to send products to Europe.

Local packaging options

Many Asian manufacturers find themselves dealing with packaging issues when they make the choice to use a local packaging supplier to bring their products into the EU. One of the European Union’s uniform standards is the phytosanitary standard. Wooden packaging in the EU must be certified phytosanitary, if it is not, it will not be permitted through customs.

172 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

The benefits of EPALs with pallet collars

Of course, the primary benefit of having EU approved packaging is that moving goods from Asia to Europe is simplified but that is not all. Using pallet collars with EPALs also includes the following benefits: Meeting international standard on phytosanitary measures ISPM15. Flexibility in packaging can save costs. Approximate 10 year service life. Recyclable, reusable. High stacking capacity and load capacity. Easier storage of packaging goods. Keeping unauthorised users out. Shipping goods from Asia to Europe can be cheaper if you have the right packaging. Pallets outfitted with collars can create boxes of different depths, which means you do not have to pay to ship air in smaller loads. This reusable packing option can cut 32% of expenses. Participating in a ‘buy and sell back’ service can cut costs dramatically. A wooden package is also more difficult to tamper with. Keeping unauthorised users out is easy with this combination packaging. It is also a cost saver. They are durable, long-lasting and can be reinserted into the supply chain repeatedly and can be the ideal solution for delivering on your business promises. Learning more about packing options starts with turning to a trusted source that specialises in EU approved packaging. Kronus is a reliable source that can give you the ins and outs of EU packaging requirements. www.kronus.eu


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APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

Nord-Lock steel washers promise highest salt spray resistance on the market

3.2204

Nord-Lock Group has officially raised the corrosion resistance on all its steel wedge-locking washers and promises at least 1,000 hours in salt spray testing, ensuring optimum performance over time, even in the most extreme environments.

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orrosion is a growing concern across industries and the requirements are increasing in environments where accelerating factors such as humidity, heat and air pollution are combined. Corrosion occurs when metals come into contact with humid air or water, eventually weakening the steel parts and potentially affecting their function – forcing operators to increase repairs, which decreases productivity. It can impact structural integrity and therefore cause accidents. “Extreme environments demand more,” says Andrew Radnor, sales manager at Nord-Lock Group. “Corrosion will occur sooner or later and can jeopardise the whole application, not just the bolted joint.”

Generating 1,000 hours corrosion resistance

Understanding exactly how extreme factors such as pollution are affecting applications, and using this experience as the basis for product developments, is increasingly important. Whatever the environment, Nord-Lock Group collaborates with customers globally to meet needs and specifications including providing necessary certifications. Anders Knutsson, coating and corrosion expert at Nord-Lock Group, explains: “Customers need washers that can withstand extreme environments for a longer period of time. Based on this, we continuously put more focus on increasing the corrosion resistance of our standard products.” Although 1,000 hours is the official number released by the Group, this is just the minimum amount of time Nord-Lock steel washers, with zinc flake coating by Delta Protekt®, can withstand corrosion in a salt spray test. The quality testing the group does, as part of ensuring their high-quality standards, clearly shows that the washers generally endure much longer. “We have perfected our coating process so we can guarantee 1,000 hours. However, if you look at the results of the salt spray tests we do every week, the washers on average do endure over twice as long in the salt spray chamber before any signs of corrosion occur,” says Anders Knutsson. According to ISO 12944-6:2018, 1,000 hours in a salt spray chamber corresponds to at least C4 High or C5 Medium conditions. The Nord-Lock standard range includes Nord-Lock original washers and X-Series washers with standard and enlarged (SP) outer diameter and Steel Construction (SC) washers. High corrosion resistance for such a large range of washers allows customers to secure applications when facing a wide variety of challenges. This is especially helpful when the industry uses galvanised bolts which, combined with Nord-Lock steel washers, provide a very high corrosion resistance for the whole assembly. Galvanised bolts are used within

174 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

the wind power industry and according to Sales Manager Brian Troest, pairing them with Nord-Lock steel washers is very beneficial, as more and more wind turbines move offshore. “Steel washers are used onshore and offshore, inside the towers and on blade bolts, where they can be exposed to the environment,” says Brian Troest. “Galvanised bolts are often used in construction,” continues Andrew Radnor. “If steel washers are used in a polluted environment with galvanised bolts, the combination is very durable against corrosion.”

Developing products for global use

Big cities in Europe and the rest of the world are facing difficulties with a high-level of pollution. In some parts of the world, Asia for instance, corrosion is also propelled by a humid climate. “The high‑quality of the coating on the Nord-Lock washers allows us as a company to offer one washer to fit all the scenarios for steel,” says Andrew Radnor. A stable production with rigorous process controls is the most important way to ensure that customers do not encounter problems in the field. “Our testing facilities with state of the art equipment in Europe, the United States, and Asia, combined with our collaborations with external test centres, allow customers all over the world to know that they can always rely on our quality,” says Andrew Radnor. “We also do customer specific tests if for example a specific assembly needs verification.”


Nord-Lock Group now promises at least 1,000 hours resistance in salt spray testing for all Nord-Lock steel washers

Washers for even tougher environments

Oil and gas applications, power generation, and industrial machinery, must operate in some of the most aggressive conditions on Earth. Nord-Lock washers made of 254 SMO® are specifically developed to protect bolted joints in saltwater applications. Washers made from Alloy C-276 are the most reliable for acidic environments. Nord-Lock engineering services provide material and product selection guidance to ensure the best solution for every application. www.nord-lock.com

Neutral salt spray test

The neutral salt spray test, (NSST according to ISO 9227), is one of the most established corrosion testing methods in the industry. It was designed to test the resistance of materials and surface coatings against corrosion, by exposing them to high concentrations of salt over a specific period of time. The test itself is conducted in a chamber with controlled atmosphere and level of corrosivity. The corrosive environment in the chamber can be altered depending on the type of material being tested. The suitability of the material or surface coating is judged by the length of time it takes for corrosion to appear.

SUPPLIER TO THE OEM AND AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

An “ISO 9001 Approved Supplier” Unit 21, Vauxhall Industrial Estate, Ruabon, Wrexham, LL14 6HA, UK t: +44 (0) 1978 823 900 e: sales@aslgroup.uk.com

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APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

Approval for large size rivet nuts EFC International has announced the approval of Sherex Fastening Solutions’ large size rivet nuts for use in steel utility poles by a leading energy company.

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he approval is in accordance with the specification for tubular steel pole transmission line structures – SES-PD-027 – and covers the minimum requirements for the design, drawings, material, fabrication, welding, coating, inspection, and delivery of tubular steel pole structures. Sherex large size rivet nuts eliminate the welding process and reduce the number of components for installation. They also allow for a safer, one handed installation of the step bolts in the field. “This is a significant cost saving for pole and tower manufacturers, and we are excited to bring this product to the market,” states Paul Musgrove, industrial and distribution sales manager at EFC International. These rivet nuts exceed application performance and safety requirements including maximum retention in fibreglass material and increased spin out resistance for pole structures. This innovative rivet nut will serve other industries including automotive, truck, agriculture, heavy equipment, rail, and HVAC. EFC is a strategic

partner into these industries for Sherex and this partnership ensures customers receive the high-quality service they have come to expect. EFC International is a supplier of speciality engineered metal, plastic, cold formed, spring steel stampings, electrical and assembled component parts to the OEM and distribution market places throughout the world. www.efc-intl.com

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APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

Converting residual gas into electricity With a groundbreaking Stirling engine from the Swedish environmental technology company Ripasso Energy, the largest ‘waste-to-energy’ project of its kind ever implemented in Africa may be realised – with the help of Lesjöfors.

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ipasso Energy is a Swedish clean tech company founded in 2008 with a mission to further refine the incomparable ability of Stirling technology to convert thermal energy to electricity. Ripasso Energy’s Stirling engine can handle a wide range of fuels. The company’s latest product, the PWR BLOK 400-F, converts industrial residual and flare gases into electrical energy at a high rate of efficiency.

High volume production of bent pressings

A few years ago, Ripasso Energy started a project with Lesjöfors AB, in Värnamo, Sweden, when the Stirling engine needed further development and prototypes for new surface enlargement components. The surface enlarger makes the heat absorption in the engine more effective while lowering the exhaust temperature. In each Stirling engine, a large number of surface enlargers, which have a critical function, are used. Ripasso required the components in a heat resistant material that can withstand extreme temperatures and a cost-effective production method. After a number of months of intensive work and testing of several prototypes, the winning solution was a pressing in an optimal material for the task, which could be manufactured in a multislide machine at the Lesjöfors factory. “Our cooperation with Lesjöfors is characterised by a great response to our needs. The company is highly skilled for a high‑quality, cost-effective product development. With great knowledge and a great teamwork, Lesjöfors has been an important partner for us,” commented Christian Jensen, design engineer at Ripasso Energy.

Large environmental benefits in South Africa

Ripasso Energy has signed a letter of intent with Glencore operations where a large number of PWR BLOK are planned to be installed in the company’s facilities in South Africa. Ripasso Energy will use the energy from the plant’s gases and generate electricity that Glencore commits to buy. Carbon dioxide emissions are estimated after installation to decrease by up to 476,000 tonnes per year. The project is the largest of its kind in Africa and an opportunity to show that the technology works on a large-scale. “The declaration of intent with Glencore is a great success for Ripasso. It confirms that the PWR BLOK is an optimal solution to make the most of the energy in gases, both from a cost and environmental perspective. Close collaboration with our subcontractors is crucial to delivering innovative solutions and products of the highest quality. Lesjöfors is one of our most important suppliers who, with great dedication and expertise, has contributed to improving our product. We look forward to a long and close partnership,” says Gunnar Larsson, CEO of Ripasso Energy.

Broad knowledge and long experience

Lesjöfors is at the absolute forefront of pressings and stampings technology. With a wide range of technologies, the optimal production method can be used, whether it is a few components or extreme volumes of millions of items. The competence covers the whole chain, from design to development and production. “We are happy to be involved in such an exciting development project that can add so much positive value for the environment. Thanks to our extensive experience of complicated geometries, efficient manufacturing methods and material knowledge, we have been able to contribute to the power generating system of the future,” says Lesjöfors. www.lesjoforsab.com

SPRINGS - HIGH PERFORMANCE

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Lesjöfors Sales, Stockholm • Phone +46 8 445 88 88 • info.vby@lesjoforsab.com

176 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

A leading manufacturer of high performance springs and stampings – www.lesjoforsab.com


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Tel 0752 7266 020 I Int +44 752 7266 020 www.motorclipsdirect.co.uk I sales@motorclipsdirect.co.uk Unit F3, Morton Park Way, Darlington DL1 4PQ, United Kingdom. www.motorclipsdirect.co.uk


APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

bigHead launches Lean Bonding® bigHead launched its latest innovation, Lean Bonding®, at this year’s JEC World Exhibition in Paris, France, which took place from 6th – 8th March.

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atthew Stevens, managing director at bighead, commented: “After several years in development, we are very excited to be releasing this major innovation onto the market. Lean Bonding® will remove many of the frustrations and difficulties in fastening lightweight composites and thin metals.” The result of a multi-year collaboration with Cranfield University, which was co-funded by Innovate the UK, Lean Bonding has involved a number of leading technology partners in the UK, France and Germany. “We believe in collaboration as a great way to solve technical challenges. By combining the experience and expertise of complimentary companies we can offer our customers the very best solution.” bigHead focussed on the elimination of the difficulties in fastening lightweight composites and thin metal materials that cannot be welded, riveted or clinched. For years manufacturers have had to use surface bonding fasteners with wet adhesives, requiring complex storage, handling and dispensing processes, as well as long cure times and labour intensive operations. For high volume manufacturers these process inefficiencies have become an obstacle to using lightweight composites.

Lean Bonding is a fast, lean and automated way to bond fasteners onto composites

The solution consists of a bonding fastener pre-loaded with a dry adhesive film. This combination removes any need for separate adhesive storage, handling or dispensing. The fastener is bonded onto the surface in seconds, without any damage to, or penetration of, the material. The combination of pre-applied adhesive and accurate process control ensures consistent bond line thicknesses and repeatable bond quality. Rapid green strength enables immediate part handling and minimises ‘WIP’. The entire process can be automated on a small or large-scale. For smaller testing or prototyping volumes, a handheld bonding tool is also available. In addition, Lean Bonding is available in different combinations of fastener and adhesive, giving designers and engineers freedom across a wide range of applications.

Zinc Alloy Inserts Steel Inserts Brass Threaded Inserts Furniture Connectors

Unit 4, Alma Industrial Estate tel: +44 (0) 121 439 7329 Stafford Road, Wednesbury fax: +44 (0) 121 439 7346 WS10 8SX email: 178 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUEsales@theinsertcompany.com 116 MARCH 2019 United Kingdom web: www.theinsertcompany.com


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500 to 1,000 ppm, based on fasteners M8-1.25 x 25 mm in length.

Nuts from 250 to 500 ppm. Rivnuts from 500 to 1,000 ppm.

600 to 1,200 ppm, based on fasteners M2-0.4 x 10 mm in length.

Dual-Belt, Large Conveyor

Dual-Belt Conveyor

Single, Flat Belt Conveyor

Split Belt Conveyor

insPected Product tyPes: Ferrous and non-ferrous based fasteners, including nuts, weld nuts, rivnuts, washers, clips, non-collared studs and headed bolts.

Contact us to discuss which model will best meet your needs.

Ph: 00-1-248-655-2570 | www.lineargs.com


APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

Bringing cable management to life Cable management specialist HellermannTyton UK has opened a virtual reality (VR) experience at its site in Cannock, UK, with the investment forming part of the HellermannTyton ACADEMY.

within it. The products can also be ‘picked up’ from their positions for closer inspection and then placed back. Those working in the transport industries can also benefit from the VR experience. Separate rail and automotive software applications allow users to get underneath the carriages of a train or beneath a car. They can then visualise the type of cable management solutions used within the vehicles, without the danger or dirt that may be involved outside of the virtual world.

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he HellermannTyton ACADEMY is a centre that allows visitors and customers to gain hands-on experience with the business’ vast range of cable management solutions. The VR software enables users to delve into five different virtual worlds and experience how cable management solutions are used in real life scenarios. The first scenario enables users to travel through the tower and nacelle of a wind turbine and view HellermannTyton’s products in-situ Other applications include data cable management, and a replica of the HellermannTyton ACADEMY in Germany – where giant versions of products such as cable tie guns can be taken apart to view their intricacy and technical make-up. John Banks, head of product management at HellermannTyton UK, said: “The new virtual reality station within our ACADEMY is a great way for our visitors and customers to view how our cable management solutions are used across a wide range of industries and applications, without having to leave the room. For our initial visitors, it has been their first time using a VR headset and feedback has been excellent.”

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APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

Internationalisation plan

TECNOLOGIC 3® produces and applies products and systems (adhesives, sealants and self-locking) for the locking of threaded parts used in a wide range of industrial sectors.

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fter consolidating its position in the Italian market in recent years, TECNOLOGIC 3® is implementing an ambitious internationalisation plan by offering its technology, products, and services, to the most important global players – who have shown great interest in water-based products without solvents, which characterise all the formulations of TECNOLOGIC 3. The development guidelines of this plan are based essentially on four strategic pillars – increasing the number of automotive approvals, excellence in research and formulation, a new company organisation and a new business model.

Increase the number of automotive approvals

TECNOLOGIC 3 wants to grow and be able to offer its systems in the most important markets in the world – through a direct presence or in collaboration with local partners. To do this, by the end of the first quarter of 2019, the company plans to have at least three new automotive approvals available.

Excellence in research and formulation

Continuing to enrich its product catalogue to meet the new needs of the market, as well as increasing investment in patents and defence of industrial property, enables TECNOLOGIC 3 to continuously improve the performance of products. This will be combined with a strong improvement in the production processes and application techniques – with the use of new tools and systems.

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A new company organisation

Customisation of its service, and the ability to respond quickly, are characteristics that TECNOLOGIC 3 is able to offer all of its customers. However, the company will further increase its production capability, and the service it provides customers, to further enhance customers’ satisfaction.

New business model

Fully dedicated to the foreign market and able to meet and adapt to the characteristics of individual markets, and the needs of international partners, TECNOLOGIC 3 has introduced a new business model that will provide further possibilities for collaboration with the customer – ensuring it does not miss any chance for commercial development. “At TECNOLOGIC 3 we have over 30 years of experience within the market and we are able to work with customers to maximise the quality and effectiveness of an application,” explains Caterina Calasso, sales manager at TECNOLOGIC 3. “Through new approvals, new products, and renewed spirit of collaboration and service, we will be able to develop new markets and further increase the market share of TECNOLOGIC 3. Our company philosophy remains strongly oriented on the ability to provide excellent service and very short delivery times – with great attention to the environmental impact.” www.tecnologic3.it



APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

Greenkote® coatings used in the world’s second largest natural gas processing facility Greenkote Plc has announced that its Chinese licensee has won a major contract to supply 1,200 tonnes of coated hex bolts for the construction of the new Amur Gas Processing Plant (AGPP) in the Amur region of Siberia.

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hen completed, AGPP will be the second largest facility of its type in the world, designed to process 42 billion cubic metres of gas per year. The Greenkote® licensee, Shanghai Premier Tension Control Bolts Co Ltd, is a joint venture of Tension Control Bolts Ltd (TCB) of the UK, Shanghai High Strength Bolts Plant Ltd (SHS) and Shanghai Yan Yan Trading (YYT). “We’re very proud of Shanghai Premier for winning this significant contract,” said Mark Gore, CEO at Greenkote. “There were six other suppliers competing, and the performance specifications for the coatings were extremely high. Because of the very harsh Siberian environment, the customer required unusually thick coatings as well as the need to pass 1,000 hour salt spray testing. Shanghai Premier did an excellent job.” “For the AGPP we are providing a range of Greenkote coated Grade 8.8 and Grade 10.9 hexagon bolt assemblies – 16mm to 30mm in diameter,” said Yan Wei, vice general manager of Shanghai Premier and general coordinator of the AGPP project. “Our bolts are being used as fasteners for the steel structures throughout the

AGPP facility. Deliveries began in October 2018 and will continue until June 2019.” Shanghai Premier operates a full state of the art Greenkote coating line and has added significant new capacity to fill the AGPP contract. The company’s Greenkote coated preload bolts, both tension control bolts and hex bolts, all meet the most stringent international standards including ISO C5-M, which addresses very highly corrosive marine environments. Greenkote is a proprietary family of high performance zinc‑based coatings that can be applied to ferrous metals and alloys by a patented thermal diffusion process – for fasteners and many other applications. Greenkote replaces many older processes such as hot dip galvanising, zinc plating, sherardising and metal flake coating. In addition to its superior anti-corrosion qualities Greenkote also provides improved adhesion and longer wear, and it helps eliminate hydrogen embrittlement. Greenkote is also eco‑friendly, from which its name derives. Unlike many other anti‑corrosion coatings, Greenkote processing is totally free of pollutants. It is also compliant with ASTM A1059/A1059M, an industry standard specification for zinc alloy coatings. Notably, in 2016, Greenkote coated bolts (provided by Greenkote licensee TCB of the UK), were also selected for use in constructing the new Safe Confinement Shelter over the Chernobyl nuclear power plant site – another world-class application in an extremely harsh environment.

JW Winco now offers nuts with hygienic design US-based JW Winco Inc, a Ganter Company, is a leading supplier of standard industrial machine components and is now able to supply GN 1580 nuts with hygienic design.

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he GN 1580 stainless steel nuts are certified according to European Hygienic Engineering and Design Group guidelines, making them ideal for use in hygienic areas. “The sealed flange surface enables components to be mounted without dead spaces,” said John Winkler, CEO, office of the president, at JW Winco. “The high-quality finish, as well as the large corner radii and closed surfaces, prevent adherence of dirt and facilitate cleaning.” Available in either a matte or polished finish, the FDA compliant sealing ring on the nuts is made of a hydrogenated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber and is temperature resistant from -25°C (-13°F) to 150°C (302°F). JW Winco is a manufacturer and distributor of inch and metric standard parts – offering an extensive selection of

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plastic, steel and stainless steel adjustable levers, cabinet U-handles, revolving and retractable handles, hand wheels, hand cranks, shock absorption mounts, levelling mounts, hand knobs, spring, ball and indexing plungers, jig, fixture and fastening components, retaining magnet assemblies, toggle clamps, universal joints, oil sight glasses, and metric tools for the industrial and commercial equipment industries.


THREAD INSERT SYSTEMS AND SOLUTIONS

Bordo Europe Industry Source for Thread Insert Systems & Solutions

Locking keys Inserts available in Miniature, Thin Wall, Heavy Duty & Solid

External thread to suit standard tap sizes Insert available in Stainless AISI303 or Carbon Steel C1215 Dovetail groove for captive locking key

Loksert threaded inserts have pre-assembled dovetailed locking keys which are driven into the parent material to create a positive mechanical lock against rotation. This makes Lokserts ideal for applications where there is heavy wear and vibration such as the transport industry, mining, earthmoving and military equipment. They are used in high volume OEM applications such as railway carriages, transmission housings and suspension units, particularly in low strength materials like aluminium alloys. Lokserts are also used to repair broken or damaged threads.

Bordo Europe BVBA Industrieweg 2, 9200 Dendermonde, Belgium Tel: +32 52 412110 Fax: +32 52 410753 Email: info@bordoeurope.com


PRODUCTS + TOOLS

Scell-it® launches ELEMENT range Scell-it® SAS has launched its own full range of battery tools named ELEMENT – confirming the brand’s development strategy on the industrial market to meet all the needs of professionals in the metallurgical industry, seeking to gain autonomy and freedom of movement.

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cell-it® has designed the ELEMENT battery tools to have a greater freedom of movement due to having no hose or compressor. Their compactness, combined with an ideal weight-to-power ratio, ensures optimal operability, regardless of the angle of application, to overcome the most difficult access operations, without the user becoming tired. Moreover, a dedicated unique ‘footprint’ has been added to its back, allowing the tool to be put on a scaffolding or work plan upside down. Easy to use and maintain compared to a pneumatic machine, the company says its ELEMENT range is ideal for professionals looking for simplicity. With the unique and interchangeable 18V/2Ah lithium-ion battery, the ELEMENT battery tools also have a long life that allows users to work long hours, without changing the battery. The complete ELEMENT range is delivered with two batteries in standard (except the E-5 and E-8, for which the quantity of battery choice is left to the buyer) and has fast charging that ensures there is always a battery ready to use.

An ingenious French design

Scell-it believes that the ergonomics of a product is as important as its efficiency. That is why its products are exclusively designed in France along with local partners, whose skills and expertise are known and recognised. This results in an exclusive patented design for the most ergonomic tools. A low and well distributed weight combined with handling comfort and ease of use, ensures hours of work without fatigue. With a smart design the new ELEMENT tools feature numerous attributes such as charging light indicators, three integrated LEDs to ensure the visibility of the darkest working areas for more precision, and a fastener allowing the user to attach the tool to a belt or hang it at a fixed station. Each tool has its own specifications: Element-5 (E-5) – the pioneer of the range, which was launched in 2017, the E-5 already has several hundreds of satisfied users. It allows installation of all kinds of blind rivets from 2.4mm diameter (³⁄₃₈ inches) to 4.8mm diameter (³⁄₁₆ inches) in all kind of materials including aluminium, steel and stainless steel. Element-6 (E-6) – equipped with six standard installation noses, the E-6 battery riveter allows the installation of structural rivets such as the Scell-it HYPERIV (double locking assembly) and Scell‑it SUPERIV (adapted to the strongest mechanical constraints, wide clamping capacities), as well as other competitor brands such as Hemlok®, Magna-Lok® and Monobolt®. It enables installation in all kinds of materials including aluminium, steel and stainless steel from 4.8mm diameter (³⁄₁₆ inches) to 6.4mm (¼ inches). Element-7 (E-7) – the E-7 is very powerful and allows the installation of pins and collars of four types, depending on the selected kit. The

188 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

The E-7 is very powerful and allows the installation of pins and collars of four types, depending on the selected kit

The new ELEMENT range of battery tools underlines our ambition to become the specialist in battery rivet and rivet nut tools.” first kit is included in the original box and additional kits are sold as options. ELEMENT-Tight (E-T) – the E-T riveter, with its large stroke, is specially dedicated to WED (triform) blind rivets types, making it ideal for roofing, cladding and modular buildings. Three installations noses for diameters 5.2mm (¹³⁄₆₄ inches), 6.4mm (¼ inches) and 7.7mm (¹⁹⁄₆₄ inches) are included in its box. ELEMENT-8 (E-8) – the E-8 rivet nut tool is available in three different boxes, allowing the buyer to choose the quantity of batteries needed, depending on the users’ tools fleet. This tool makes


Never BE without your

ELEMENT

O N E B AT T E RY

TO RULE THEM ALL

18V - 2.0 Ah

FREEDOM, POWER & AUTONOMY Try one of the new battery powered tools ELEMENT by and you won’t be able to do without anymore.

,

One unique battery for 8 rivet and rivet nut battery powered tools, delivering an optimal operability, even in difficult access, and with a long lasting autonomy, will leave you with a feeling of total freedom. Whatever your working angle, you will feel like in orbit : free and light weighted to work for hours, without getting tired. A unique design and ergonomy that will surely leave a strong footprint in the riveting world.

MORE INFO


PRODUCTS + TOOLS it possible to blindly install a complete range of cylindrical or hexagonal blind rivet nuts, in all kinds of materials and with M3 to M8 diameters. ELEMENT-12 (E-12) – available in the 3 rd quarter of 2019, the E-12 has a traction power of 23,000N. It will enable the installation of large diameter blind rivet nuts up to M12. ELEMENT-Split (E-S) – the E-S rivet nut tool, with its longer anchor and extended stroke is dedicated to the specific installation of triform nuts with a diameter of M5 to M8. Particularly suitable for soft materials such as plastic these nuts can be used on support with large thicknesses. ELEMENT-Hexcut (E-HC) – the E-HC is a hexagonal punching machine that transforms a cylindrical hole into a hexagonal one on sheets up to 3mm (⅛ inch), depending on the type of metal to be punched, from diameter M4 to M10 depending on the selected punch. The E-HC is equipped as standard with three standard punches (M5, M6 and M8), however M4 and M10 punches are also additionally available. “The new ELEMENT range of battery tools underlines our ambition to become the specialist in battery rivet and rivet nut tools. It completes the E500RB and E640RB premium battery riveting tools range, providing a powerful and accessible alternative for every kind of customer – even occasional users,” explains Jérémy Foulon, technical director at Scell-it. www.scellit.com

self clinch nuts

The E-HC is a hexagonal punching machine that transforms a cylindrical hole into an hexagonal one on sheets up to 3mm (⅛ inch)

K&H AUTO PARTS #1118 room, #666, Hangxing Road, Gongshu District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang China Tel: 86-571-87208453 Fax: 86-571-87208452 e-mail: sales@khfastener.com

http://www.khfastener.com

K&H AUTO PARTS Hall 5 Booth 3280

FACTORY ADDRESS HAINING R-BEST HARDWARE CO, LTD. TeL: 86-573-87627681 Fax: 86-573-87627685 188 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH No: 2 Tiantong Road, Yanguan Town, Haining City, Zhejiang

2019

rivet nut



PRODUCTS + TOOLS

Complete riveting solutions from Rivit

Rivit Srl is known as a leading company in the production and distribution of fastening systems for sheet metal assembly, and the related tools for their placing. With over forty years of experience the company has developed a comprehensive range of fasteners including blind rivets, rivet nuts for sheet metal, self-clinching, welding studs, blind bolts, cage nuts, clamps, rivet nuts for plastic, latches, hinges, handles and specific tools for their installation.

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ivit’s wide and full range of tools for blind rivets and rivet nuts includes battery powered tools, which combine the quality of the work to the freedom of the movement. The practicality of the lithium batteries also ensure greater autonomy with respect to the traditional ones for the same power. RIV750 is a battery powered tool, designed for use with all rivets up to 4.8mm diameter in all alloys. Ejection of the mandrels follows the force of gravity, i.e. either forward, through the nosepiece, or backward, into the proper mandrel container. RIV750 also features 8,500N tensile strengt h and comes with a 1.3Ah battery and charger in a metallic case. Another battery powered tool, the RIV760, is the superior battery version featuring 13,000N tensile strength. Ejection of the mandrels once again follows the force of gravity, either forward, through the nosepiece, or backward, into the proper mandrel container. It was designed to place standard and structural steel rivets up to 6.4mm diameter and extra long FIORIV rivets in 4.8mm – 6.4mm diameter. RIV760 also comes in a metallic case with a 2.6Ah battery and a battery charger. The following options are available on request for both the RIV750 and RIV760: Retention nosepieces that firmly hold the blind rivet by means of a lateral ball. In this way, even when using the riveting tool in a horizontal position, the blind rivet does not fall. Universal nosepieces – thanks to its rotation you can select diameters of the blind rivet, without replacing the nosepiece at all times. Head extension, 200mm extension kit.

Also available is the RIV790 – a battery powered tool designed to place rivet nuts from M3 to M10, featuring 13,000N tensile strength. The tool is strong and versatile and the screwing of the rivet nut is done automatically when it is positioned against the tie rod – by pressing the trigger, the rivet nut is deformed, and automatically unscrewed from the tie rod. Rivet nut clamping is carried out by the adjustment of the front ring nuts. The tool comes in a metallic case with tie rods and heads M4, M5 and M6 (M8 and M10 on request) and with a 1.3Ah battery plus the charger.

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Rivit's GTRERIV range

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Also available from Rivit is the GTRERIV rivet range designed for the building sector. GTRERIV rivets, with gasket, are entirely made of an aluminium alloy (body and mandrel) and feature a neoprene gasket inserted under the head that guarantees excellent resistance to weathering, especially to infiltrations caused by rain, thanks to the integrated gasket. The low permeability, combined with an excellent fastening force, makes the GTRERIV suitable for roofing fastening installations, in particular to fix the brackets that support the photovoltaic solar panels on corrugated sheets and sandwich panels. The placement of this rivet is fast and easy, and from one side only. The mandrel, firmly locked, ensures solid and resistant joints, as it breaks flush with the surface. The three large pressure wings distribute the clamping force evenly over a large area of the surface, so even the soft, thin, flexible or fragile materials can be safely riveted without destroying or damaging the surface. GTRERIV are available in different diameters and lengths 5.2mm, 6.3mm and 7.7mm dome or large head for different grip ranges. www.rivit.it


Engineering Solutions for Bolts, Nuts & Studbolts

Berdan Cıvata Sanayi A.Ş.

Tarsus-Mersin Organize Sanayi Bölgesi 5. Cadde No: 6, 33540, Tarsus - Mersin / Turkey

T: +90 324 676 44 90-91-92 F: +90 324 676 44 93 E: info@berdancivata.com 1.1246

www.berdancivata.com


PRODUCTS + TOOLS

Reliable delivery of C-parts REYHER is continually adjusting its portfolio to the current C-part needs of its customers. At Fastener Fair Stuttgart the company will be showcasing everything relating to the newly introduced, customer specific range of articles in the RIO webshop, as well as comprehensive services for fastener and fixing technology.

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or industrial and trade customers, REYHER stands for reliable deliveries of C-parts along with a comprehensive range of services. Trade customers profit especially from the RIO webshop – REYHER Internet Order available 24/7, as well as customised trade packaging and labelling with the RKP – REYHER kitting and packaging service. F. REYHER Nchfg GmbH & Co KG has now extended its portfolio with numerous new products and ranges such as fischer articles and fastener and fixing elements for timber construction. In the RIO webshop, with access to all articles on offer, users can immediately see the availability and prices of articles needed online. Orders can be quickly and simply triggered, and a wide range of search criteria is available to facilitate locating the right article. As a new innovation, RIO customers can now receive customised ranges of articles. This is tailored by REYHER precisely to the needs of the user. If, for example, the customer exclusively uses fastener and fixing elements from a particular range of products, then the product line on offer can be limited to articles relevant to him.

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M

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CM

MY

CY

CMY

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T: +44 (0)1634 281200 www.jubileeclips.co.uk

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Trade packaging and customer specific labelling

With RKP – REYHER kitting and packaging, the company is also covering the needs of trade customers regarding trade packaging and labelling. In close cooperation with its customers, REYHER has developed the right solution, including customised trade packaging and customer specific labelling. Via RIO Webshop, REYHER has made its label designer tool available so that users can use it to design and print their own labelling. In addition, customers have the choice from a range of cardboards, with or without pouring lips in various sizes, or completely their own packaging. www.reyher.de


EXPERTS IN FASTENING SOLUTIONS

BRALO

Manufacturing and distribution of rivets, insert nuts and riveters

High quality blind rivets Personalised solutions Special pieces ISO 9001 | IATF 16949 | ISO 14001

Visit us: HALL 1 STAND 312 19 - 21 March 2019

Messe Stuttgart, Germany

www.bralo.com @BRALO_es BRALO Global expertise in Fastening Solutions BRALO GROUP

SPAIN - FRANCE - GERMANY UNITED KINGDOM - ITALY - PORTUGAL -TURKEY CHINA - MEXICO - CZECH REPUBLIC


PRODUCTS + TOOLS

Brooks Forgings replicates special Grade 12.9 tie rods Brooks Forgings, a specialist in manufacturing non-standard forged, fabricated and machined components, has a team of skilled operators that welcome the engineering challenges and their unique requirements, that are often presented by customers. A recent bespoke project was to replicate a special type of tie rod in Grade 12.9 for a new client in Europe.

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rooks Forgings was supplied with a sample for analysis and discovered it was a two piece welded fabrication. Thanks to its extensive manufacturing capabilities Brooks Forgings was able to offer the component as a one piece item instead. By forging the eye and free flow forging the flat section, the material grain flow remained unbroken and produced a stronger, more resilient component when compared to its fabricated counterpart.

Spanners used across industries Chicago Brand UK says its unique open end ratchet spanners can be used for thousands of applications where a ring ratchet cannot be used.

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oasting what Chicago Brand UK says is the smallest swing angle on the market, the open end ratchets feature a small head size designed to make it easier to work in tight work spots. Constructed from 17-4PH stainless steel these spanners are also perfect for, and already used in, the aerospace industry as they resist chipping and corrosion. Users increase productivity and work faster by keeping the spanner engaged with the fastener then using like a regular ratchet. The jaw uses an interactive grip that increases with force plus they do not damage the heads of nuts and bolts. Unlike other open end ratchet spanners requiring 60 degrees to operate, the Chicago Brand design means that users require half this to make the fastener turn. Professionals in the engineering, automotive, joinery, and construction industries can also benefit from the time saving design of the open end ratchet spanner. Exclusively supplied in the UK and Europe by Chicago Brand UK these spanners are available in both metric and imperial sizes and are covered with a lifetime guarantee.

196 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

Due to t he specif ic hardness range required, t he components were machined and thread rolled M24 x 2 (fine pitch) prior to a clean heat treatment process. All components were inspected for straightness after heat treatment and corrected (if required) prior to the final painting process. The final component measured just over a metre in length and a total of 600 were produced in the first batch.

Rivet nuts for corrosive environments

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FIXI Srl has expanded its wide range of rivet nuts to include A4 stainless steel items – fulfilling the continuously growing demand for high resistant fasteners necessary to serve a wide spectrum of industries.

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articularly suitable for applications in corrosive environments, such as in the powerboat building and shipyard industries, this series of stainless steel rivet nuts offers superior performance when products are exposed to sea water and are resistant to corrosion in sulphuric acid compounds. The new range of high-quality A4 rivet nuts is available in a variety of head and shank styles with open and closed ends. FIXI is a reliable business partner always ready to invest in new products and innovate its service to keep up with the evolving market. Amongst its range are also blind rivets, self-clinching fasteners, wire inserts, fasteners for plastics, inserts for tubes and all the related installation tools. “With a skilled staff, excellent stock inventory, competitive pricing and a variety of fasteners for many types of industries, you can rest assured FIXI is a reference point in the European market and is always ready to face the challenges of meeting customers’ increasing requirements,” comments FIXI. www.fixi.it


1G.A49

CLINCHING FASTENER SPECIALIST Main Products: Self-Clinching Studs - Nuts - Standoffs, Rivet Bushes; Welding Studs and Standoffs, Brass Inserts for Plastics, Cage Nuts, Rivet Nuts. Strengths: Producer in China, ISO 9001:2008 certificated and aiming to TS16949, PPAP package and MSDS for automotive industry, Automatic Optical Sorting 100%, Full range for sheet metal fastener and 20M inventory.

t: +86-139-2920-4841 e: zhuyb@grandametal.com w: www.grandametal.com


PRODUCTS + TOOLS

Makita’s first cordless rebar tying tool The new DTR180ZK rebar tying tool by Makita is powered by a brushless motor for extended runtime, increased power, and is also compatible with both 14.4V and 18V Makita lithium-ion batteries.

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akita’s first ever introduction of a cordless rebar tying tool allows fast and efficient application of rebar tie wire and eliminates manual action. Weighing a comfortable 2.6kg, with the battery, the DTR180ZK is designed to achieve the fastest method of applying rebar ties quickly and consistently, as well as automatically delivering double loop ties for a range of construction applications such as building concrete foundations. It can be operated single-handedly, in single or continuous action, allowing the other hand to remain free to adjust the position of the rebars. This tool can also be used with D10, D13 and D16 rebar in varying combinations of 2, 3 and 4 pieces of rebars. The traditional method of rebar tying is by hand with a metal hook, which is fine for small areas, however, for larger construction sites the DTR180ZK will prove to be economical as it will save time and manpower while achieving maximum consistency of application. With a maximum power output of 340W, this tying tool can be used in continuous action mode for the most efficient tying. The applicator can tie rebars simply by pushing the contact arm against the rebars when the trigger is continuously pulled. Using a 5.0Ah lithium-ion battery up to 120 ties of 0.8mm diameter annealed wire can be delivered. The new Makita brushless rebar tying tool complements the range of battery operated rebar cutters, as well as the steel rod cutter, and is supplied in a robust carry case.

196 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019



PRODUCTS

PRODUCTS + TOOLS

SPIROL offers pre-stacked disc springs

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While some applications only require a single disc, others require a number of disc springs to be stacked in a particular configuration to achieve specific force/deflection performance requirements. That is why SPIROL has decided to offer pre‑stacked disc springs

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istorically, SPIROL International Corporation has supplied disc springs in bulk packaging, and the customers have fashioned the discs into the prescribed stacks during the assembly process. However, SPIROL now offers pre-stacked disc springs (greased or ungreased) in custom configurations packaged in shrink wrap with a perforated tab for ease of insertion into the application. The pre-stacked discs are delivered intact to the assembly line where the operator simply has to place the stack into the assembly and remove the shrink wrap. This saves customers time, investment and mess associated with greasing the stacks. Having prestacked disc springs delivered directly to the assembly line also helps to mistake proof the process.

“SPIROL’s application engineers will assist you in the design and selection of the most cost‑effective stack to fit in your space constraints while meeting your specific force and deflection requirements. Our experienced team can often configure a stack of smaller, less costly discs to get the same performance as larger, more expensive disc springs. Our engineers will also assist in developing special disc springs to meet the requirements of unique applications, which includes special dimensions, materials, finishes, shapes, shot peening, pre-setting and stacking,” comments SPIROL. www.spirol.co.uk

Providing permanent threads PEM® self-clinching SH™ nuts and HFLH™ studs from PennEngineering® can successfully install in high strength thin steel sheets to provide permanent threads for mating hardware in automotive component attachment applications.

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hese hard panel nuts and studs, manufactured from hardened alloy steel, ultimately exhibit stronger thread strength compared with conventional fasteners. The fasteners additionally eliminate the environmental related issues typically associated with alternative thin sheet fastening devices. Due to a lightweight design and reduced need for loose hardware, such as washers, these fasteners can contribute to overall weight reductions in vehicle assemblies. Lower installed cost can be gained from the elimination of embossing operations and the capability to

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install automatically using a standard press or in-die technology. Small outer diameters of the fasteners enable close-to-edge mounting without risking sheet buckling and, upon installation, the reverse side of the host sheet will remain flush and unmarred for a clean appearance. PEM SH nuts are engineered to install into high strength steel sheets at 975MPa maximum ultimate tensile and as hard as HRC 30 or less on the Rockwell ‘C’ scale. Host panels can be as thin as 1.4mm/0.056 inches. Standard thread sizes are M6, M8, and M10 for metric nuts and ¼-20, 5/16 -18, and 3/8 -16 for unified versions. PEM HFLH studs will install successfully into high strength steel sheets at 700MPa maximum ultimate tensile and as hard as HRB 91 or less on the Brinell scale. Host panels can be as thin as 1mm/0.04 inches. Standard thread sizes are M5, M6, and M8 for metric studs and #10-32, ¼-20, and 5 /16 -18 for unified versions.


FM 28879 AS9100 Rev D and ISO 9001:2008 • BS7751 • BS7752 • MA/MS standards • DIN 8140 Fully traceable product.

HIGH STRENGTH Stainless Steel Wire Thread Inserts Providing strong threads in a variety of materials and applications. Precision engineered in the UK to international standards. Extensive range of coatings and platings.

A CO B M RIT PA ISH NY

For further information contact: Helpline: 01530 416888 Email: sales@wti-fasteners.co.uk

www.wti-fasteners.co.uk

HEICO FASTENING SYSTEMS

HEICO-LOCK® WEDGE LOCK WASHERS MADE FROM STAINLESS STEEL ■ process optimization which leads to increased corrosion resistance ■ up to 1.200 h in neutral salt spray test (according to DIN EN ISO 9227) ■ corrosion quick test as part of the incoming goods inspection ensures consistent delivery quality WWW.HEICO-GROUP.COM

Visit us!

19. - 21.03.2019 Stuttgart | Germany

Hall 1 Stand 1222


PRODUCTS + TOOLS

DeWalt® debuts 20V MAX cordless cable stapler Part of the growing 20V MAX system of products from DeWalt®, the new 20V MAX cordless cable stapler DCN701 is compact, lightweight and can replace manual cable fastening methods.

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hen using a DCB203 battery and stapling 12-2 Romex wire in 2x4 wood, DeWalt® says the DCN701 is twice as fast as a manual hammer stapler, helping to provide fast and efficient wire-ups in residential wiring applications. In addition, the 20V MAX cordless cable stapler is 'Made in the USA' with global materials. Maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 20V. Nominal voltage is 18V. The 4.7lb (without a battery) cordless cable stapler is primarily designed for fastening NM-B (Romex®) wires and cables, but can also be used for low voltage applications. A proprietary cable guide helps to drive staples safely and accurately. The compact frame and lightweight design are ideal for tight spaces. A

HALL 1 GALLERY FLOOR BOOTH C27

centre mounted LED light helps to eliminate shadows and illuminate the work area in low light conditions. It is also compatible with the new UL® Listed DeWalt DRS1800 1 inch insulated cable staples, which are sold separately. A belt clip is included with the stapler, which offers left or right placement, depending on user preference.



PRODUCTS + TOOLS

Earnest Machine adds metric hex head cap screws

Earnest Machine is now offering DIN spec metric hex head cap screws in response to increased demand in the marketplace.

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he US-based global importer, distributor, and manufacturer of large diameter and hard to find fasteners, will carry metric products made to the DIN spec, which is the German national standard. Fasteners will be made to the DIN 931 and 933 specifications, in fine and coarse threads, property classes 8.8 and 10.9, and plain and zinc clear trivalent finishes. “ISO metric hex head cap screws have been part of our product line for years. However, we’re seeing a rise in the demand for metric products due to globalisation and the increase of imported heavy equipment. Many repairs now call for metric pieces,” said Kirk Zehnder, CEO of Earnest Machine Products. Metric products are needed in a variety of projects and industries including heavy equipment, agriculture, heavy truck, and so on. “As the global economy

shows more of a shift toward metric, the need for metric products becomes more acute,” explains Kirk. “We also offer a variety of value-added services, including custom plating, drilling and slotting rework, broken case quantities, kitting and packaging, and branded drop shipping." “While DIN specification products are not required for projects, it is understood that German engineering standards yield the highest quality product. These pieces are made from the strictest standards, so when you hear that a fastener is made to the DIN specification, you can trust this part will have lasting power,” concludes Kirk.

Ellsworth diversifies JW Winco offers plastic torque its portfolio Ellsworth Adhesives Europe has introduced a brand new line of tooling products – the first product range of its kind to feature in the distributor’s catalogue.

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esigned for use in the composites and foundry industries the new range comprises of over a hundred products including polyurethane and epoxy boards for styling, modelmaking and tooling – as well as specialist resin systems, close contour materials and reaction injection moulding. “In this challenging marketplace, we must innovate to remain competitive and ensure continued growth. Our diversification into tooling opens us up to new markets yet the product offering remains complementary to our core business – the supply of materials and dispensing equipment. We are eager to see how this new division will develop in the coming months and years and we are hopeful of a prosperous future,” comments John Henderson, managing director at Ellsworth Adhesives Europe. With the European tooling sector enjoying an annual average turnover of US$13 billion (€11.5 billion), Ellsworth Adhesives is entering a lucrative market. To ensure it is well positioned to service its demands, the distributor will welcome two new technical sales engineers into its team. Paul Moore and Graham Flanagan have a combined 70 years in the industry, giving them invaluable knowledge and experience. The new range of tooling products is being marketed as ‘Ellsworth Tooling Solutions’ and is available for online purchase.

204 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

limiting wing nuts JW Winco Inc, a Ganter company and supplier of standard industrial machine components, has added EN 5320 plastic torque limiting wing nuts to its range of products.

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vailable worldwide, these wing nuts are used when the manually applied torque is to be limited. When turned clockwise, the torque of the wing nut triggers an ‘over-engagement’ when the specified torque is reached. When tightening, this will ensure the maximum permissible torque is not exceeded. When turned counter‑clockwise, the torque needed for loosening will be transmitted properly. The technopolymer plastic is glass fibre reinforced and temperature resistant up to 176°F (80°C). The wing nuts are available in either a black or orange matte finish. Also available from JW Winco are the GN 3663 aluminium torque limiting knurled knobs. JW Winco is a manufacturer and distributor of inch and metric standard parts, based in New Berlin, Wisconsin, USA. The company offers an extensive selection of hand knobs, spring, ball and indexing plungers, jig, fixture and fastening components, toggle clamps, universal joints, and metric tools for the industrial and commercial equipment industries.


SPECIAL

THREADED PARTS

PRODUCTION

METRIC THREAD

TRAPEZOIDAL THREAD

CUSTOM PRODUCTION

LARGE STOCK

THREADED RODS, STUDS, BOLTS

THREADED RODS, STUDS, BOLTS

RODS, SPINDLES AND ACCESORIES

CAPACITY

THREAD ROLLING

www.

v a l e n t a z t. c om

19 – 21 MARCH 2019

MESSE STUTTGART, GERMANY VISIT US

STAND 2064, HALL 3


PRODUCTS + TOOLS

One battery for all The Badaptor from Power Adhesives is a battery adaptor that lets users convert one of three 18V batteries for use with Power Adhesives’ first battery powered glue gun – the b-tec 807 – eliminating the need to buy new battery systems for just one tool.

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he Badaptor is available in three different versions, allowing customers to use their 18V DeWalt®, Makita® or Milwaukee® battery in any tool that takes a Ryobi® 18V battery. Users can save money by using their existing batteries and can enjoy more freedom when using their Ryobi® tools. Power Adhesive’s b-tec 807 has been designed to use the widely available Ryobi® 18V ONE+ range of lithium+ batteries and chargers, which can achieve rapid recharge times. These batteries, which can also be used to power a range of Ryobi power tools, include an on-board 4-stage fuel gauge to indicate how much charge is remaining, making it easier for users to know when a charge is required. Simple and easy to use, the Badaptor allows operators more flexibility when using the b-tec 807 glue gun, which is completely portable and enables users to work virtually anywhere. This makes it ideal for awkward applications where a mains power source isn’t available, or where the gun needs to be taken to the job in hand.

Taking the full range of high performance tecbond 12mm (½ inch) glue sticks, the b-tec 807 is well suited to attaching devices like PIRs, carrying out car bodywork repairs, attaching low voltage cables and carpet gripper rods, and for window dressing and creating exhibition displays. The b-tec 807 has a strong glue output of 1.9 kilos per hour and reaches operating temperature in only 3 minutes. Covered by a 12 month warranty, the b-tec 807 can be purchased alone or as part of a kit, with separate battery and charger sets also available. All three Badaptor variants are now available from Power Adhesives.


Standard Listed – you know who’s best! But contact us for all the rest . . .

STANDARD LISTED - YOU KNOW WHO’S BEST BUT CONTACT US FOR ALL THE REST...

Online Product Guide:

Non-preferred Metrics ~ Intermediate Sizes Short and Long Lengths ~ Slotted Grub Screws A4/80 Bolts & Socket Caps ~ 6 Lobe (TX) Drive Screws All Metal Self-Locking Nuts ~ Studding Connectors And many more...

Factory & Warehouse: Via Verona 5, 20060, Cernusco s/Naviglio, Milan, Italy Tel: +44 (0) 117-972 8560 Fax: +44 (0) 117-972 8570 sales@avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk www.avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk Unit 10, Riverside Business Park, St Anne’s, Bristol, BS4 4ED

Headquarters: Via Negroni 30, 20060, Pessano c/Bornago, Milan, Italy

T: +39 02 9574 9273 | F: +39 02 9574 4857 E: info@pec.mitossrl.com | www.mitossrl.com

Smith

Tel: 01942 520250 Fax: 01942 520251 sales@smithbullough.com www.smithbullough.com

Bullough

Special Fastener Manufacturing Non-Standards are our Standard • • • • •

Non-Standard & Special Fasteners Forging, CNC Machining & Threading Metric, BSW, BSF, UNC, UNF Diameters M6 to M64, 1/4” to 2 Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel, Exotic Alloys, Super Duplex


PRODUCTS + TOOLS

Think HUCK®… think Rivco…

UK-based Rivco has been an established supplier of Huck® for over 20 years, and is known as a friendly, full service provider of the complete Huck® fasteners and tool solutions range. This includes the new Huck® Range ForceTM battery installation tool, which offers the users of Huck fasteners a more flexible installation method.

H

uck says its new Huck® Range Force™ battery tool, developed in partnership with global tooling experts Makita, is the only tool on the market specifically designed and tested to install the complete range of Huck blind fasteners and lockbolts up to 6.4mm (¼ inches). Supported fasteners include the Auto-Bulb™, Magna-Bulb®, Magna‑Lok®, HuckLok™, Magna-Tite™, BOM® (4.8mm 3⁄₁₆ inches only), BobTail®, C6L® / C120L®, Hucktainer® and the Magna-Grip®. Its unique electronically adjustable force control enables the installation of blind rivets as well as both pin-break and pintailless lockbolts such as BobTail, making it the most versatile battery installation tool available. The tool complements the existing range of pneumatic, hydraulic and pneudraulic tooling, providing a lightweight, cordless solution perfectly suited to hard to reach, or offsite applications. Even in typical production environments the tool can be used anywhere without the need for proximity to a power rig or air supply, adding flexibility to production as well as reducing system complexity. “Customers hindered in the past by cables and wiring and proximity to an air supply or heavy power rig now have the flexibility to install Huck blind fasteners and lockbolts in previously inaccessible

applications. We’ve seen increased demand from our customers for versatile tooling solutions and our battery tool is helping them solve problems,” explains Joël Melquiot, product manager at Arconic Fastening Systems. The tool comes in an easy to transport kit with a protective carry case, two batteries and a charger. www.rivco.co.uk

A new wave spring series TFC Ltd says its newest wave spring series, Nested Spirawave® Springs, is the first standard range of nested wave springs on the market. They will be available from stock in carbon and 17-7 PH stainless steel from 0.5 inches to 4 inches or 16mm to 100mm.

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ested Spirawave wave springs offer a variety of benefits to customers including two to three times the force, with the force increasing proportionally with the number of turns in the coil. “Compressing a wave spring creates bending, or tensile stresses, which can limit the amount of force the spring can produce without failing or permanently deforming,” explains TFC. “It is recommended that the calculated operating stress be less than the minimum tensile strength of the material in static applications and less than 80% of the minimum tensile strength in dynamic applications. Stacking single turn springs can achieve a higher load, but one Nested spring provides the desired load without the complication of stacking multiple parts.” TFC also points out that when an assembly demands a stack of single turn wave springs, they have to be aligned perfectly to prevent binding or uneven loading when compressed. However, because Nested Spirawave Springs are made from one continuous filament of flat wire, coiled in parallel, the layers stay aligned, allowing for consistent loading. The Nested Spirawave Springs are also ideal for automated processes. Their sturdy, multi-turn design allows for pick and place methods without the risk of deformation that can occur

208 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

when a robotic arm picks up a single turn wave spring. This design has no free ends, making it tangle resistant, reducing assembly time. “The Nested Spirawave Springs are a standard series from Smalley, with thousands of carbon and stainless steel, from 0.5 inches to 4 inches, available for next day shipment,” comments TFC. “Non-stock quantities can be available in as little as three weeks and if one of our new standard series springs doesn’t fit your application, Smalley can design you a custom Nested Spirawave.”


ENQUIRE NOW Think HUCK.. Think Rivco 01562 513910

sales@rivco.co.uk

www.rivco.co.uk

The Rivet & Rivet Nut Supplier of Choice


PRODUCTS + TOOLS

Making nut ready cuts

Milwaukee Tool’s new tool for cutting the most common sizes of threaded rod, the M18™ brushless threaded rod cutter, delivers clean, burr-free cuts for threading nuts on by hand. It also has the power to cut through ¼ inch, ⅜ inch and ½ inch mild steel or ¼ inch and ⅜ inch stainless steel threaded rod in seconds.

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he new tool features a unique design with a 1½ inch built-in trim length and one handed centre grip for making uniform, controlled overhead cuts. This also offers users the clearest line of site for the most accurate cuts. Not only is the tool optimised for overhead cutting, but it can also be laid flat on its back for prefab cutting. A brushless motor and an M18™ REDLITHIUM™ 2.0Ah battery allow this tool to deliver over 400 nut ready cuts per charge, reducing the need to file the threaded rod before applying the nut. The die also includes three different cutting sizes, which can be changed by rotating the dies, allowing users to cut the most common sizes of threaded rod. In addition, REDLINK™ electronics allow the tool’s jaw to auto-retract after each cut

Dreams Dreams Come Come

so users are ready for the next cut right away. All these features work together to prevent burrs, chips and sparks – all common frustrations when using non‑dedicated tools to cut threaded rod. The new tool is also part of Milwaukee’s M18™ system,which now offers more than 180 power tool solutions focusing on the user.

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208 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

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PRODUCTS + TOOLS

Torque data collectors for all applications

The TorqueStar data collector, first launched in 1992, has been used in hundreds of applications worldwide, including assembly tool auditing and fastener tightening validation. It is utilised throughout the manufacturing world, as well as in quality and auditing departments across some of the world’s biggest industries.

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he new TorqueStar series includes the Lite, Plus, and Pro, and delivers a solution to fit all budgets and applications with updated technology and expanded features to offer superior torque measurement performance. The TorqueStar Lite is a new basic torque data collector and indicator performing simple measurements of torque in track, peak, click and pulse modes. The Lite is ideal for users who want a quick and straightforward ‘plug and play’ data collector with high precision results.

Maximum precision and safety Whether trade or industry, precision tools that keep rigidly to the required tightening torque are essential for almost every kind of screw connection. With the DREMASTER® series, GEDORE offers robust adjustable and actuating pipe torque wrenches with a square drive for controlled bi-directional tightening.

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vailable in the drive sizes ½ inch and ¾ inch, GEDORE says the tools guarantee the highest precision and safety even under extreme conditions. Thanks to an ergonomic handgrip with the calibration tool and integrated ratchet function, even challenging installations can be completed quickly and without complication. The DREMASTER® is fitted with a micrometre scale (Nm/lbf.ft), and thanks to the patented changeover switch, only one unit is every displayed in the viewing area. This facilitates the precise and safe setting of the torque value. Whether a mushroom head, changeover, spigot or rectangular cavity, the DREMASTER is available in various designs for use in ranges from 20Nm to 850Nm. The galvanised ratchet of the DREMASTER K ½ inch – ¾ inch torque wrench has a mushroom head and

212 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE // ISSUE 116 MARCH 2019

5.2739

push-button release. The mushroom head prevents the whole square drive from accidentally being pulled out when changing the sockets. Removing the mushroom head to change the direction of rotation and reinserting the square drive is easy. Being able to change the square drive facilitates controlled bi-directional tightening. The pipe torque wrench is suitable for tightening over a range of 20Nm – 850Nm/15lbf.ft – 630lbf.ft. The torque wrench DREMASTER UK ½ inch with a changeover square drive and integrated ratchet function is used for controlled clockwise tightening over a range of 20Nm – 300Nm/15lbf.ft – 220lbf.ft. The reversible ratchet is turned clockwise or anti-clockwise, depending on the chosen direction. Also available, the adjustable actuating pipe torque wrench DREMASTER Z with spigot end (depth gauge 16mm or 22mm diameter) is suitable for controlled bidirectional tightening over a range of 20Nm – 850Nm. The tool quick change system with locking pin guarantees fast and flexible working even in hard to access areas. For instance, open end fittings can be used to carry out brake line or flange screw connections. Socket bits can also be used along with ratchet heads. These properties are also shared by the more compact DREMASTER SE. The torque wrench also has a rectangular cavity with a depth gauge of 9mm x 12mm or 14mm x 18mm, and facilitates controlled bi-directional tightening over the most common range of 20Nm – 400Nm.


Additionally, the TorqueStar Plus, incorporating a full colour, backlit screen, is a mid-range torque data collector with additional features including force, audit modes and the display of real time measurement data. With an icon-based navigation system, the Plus has an extensive range of features and statistics allowing accurate data recording and analysis for vital assembly torque records. Lastly, the TorqueStar Pro is a premium torque data collector. It is designed with the same hardware as the Plus but provides the user with even more functionality. The Pro also has all the features of the Plus model but with additional capabilities including move on, retighten and yield, ‘Jobs’ and ‘Rounds’, advanced statistics, and torque trace graphs. “The development and launch of the new TorqueStar series is another demonstration of Crane Electronics’ commitment to developing innovative and advanced products that meet the demands and requirements of the many industries we serve,” said Stephen Cox, sales and marketing manager at Crane Electronics Ltd. “We know that our customers across the globe are constantly demanding higher accuracy and precision in their torque measurements as well as easier methods of recording and storing this important data. Since the launch of the very first TorqueStar, and the extremely popular TorqueStar Opta in 2003, we have continually strived to raise the standard for torque measurement and data collection. The new TorqueStar series allows us to continue that legacy.”


ADVERTISERS INDEX 310Express Company............................................198 A Perry....................................................................... 104 Abbey Clamps............................................................. 15 Achilles GmbH............................................................ 11 Acton........................................................................... 109 Advance Spares.......................................................173 Albert Pasvahl............................................................. 9 Alexander Paal GmbH......................................... 108 Alloy & Stainless Fasteners..................88-89, 212 Ambrovit......................................................................13 Apex Stainless Fasteners ...................................163 Ariljemetal Doo...................................................... 109 ARK Group ...........................................................62-63 Arma Baglanti ....................................................... 104 Astrotech Steels Private Limited....................112 Atotech....................................................................... 139 Avon Stainless Fasteners Ltd........................... 205 AWAFAST......................................................................79 Bäcker GmbH & Co KG............................................79 Bendfast......................................................................211 Berardi Bullionare.................................................113 Berdan Bolt................................................................191 Bi-Mirth Corp..............................................36-37, 125 Birlik Baglanti Elemanlari San......................... 99 Bomet.............................................................................45 Bontempi Vibo........................................................... 69 Bordo............................................................................185 Bossong.......................................................................119 Bralo.............................................................................193 Brighton Best International................................ 21 Bülte................................................................................95 CAN ENG.......................................................................84 Carlo Salvi.................................................................145 CELO Befestigungssysteme GmbH.................. 99 Cetin Civata................................................................25 Ceviz Pres Döküm San. ve Tic. A.S....................65 Chavesbao..................................................................... 3 Chemitool...................................................................4-5 Ching Chan Optical Technology Co............... 160 Colombo Ezio..............................................................57 Colombo Special Fasteners Srl........................... 75 Condat...........................................................................79 Construction Anchors.......................................... 117 Dell’Era Ermanno & Figlio Srl............................ 96

Dimac.............................................................................47 Dipl. Ing. Fritz Lichthart.....................................149 Dirak............................................................................... 15 Don Quichotte.......................................................... 100 DS Fasteners...............................................................95 EFC................................................................................175 Ettinger.......................................................................167 Evirt Italia..................................................................157 Fareast Metal International Co Ltd..............200 Fastbolt........................................................................... 2 Fastener + Fixing Magazine................................76 Fastener Fair Stuttgart.........................................73 Fastener Taiwan .................................................... 111 FastFixSearch.com................................................165 FastFixTechnology.com.......................................121 Fiminox......................................................................200 Fixi Srl............................................................................ 31 Fong Prean Industrial Co Ltd........................... 123 G & B Fissaggi Srl................................................... 134 Gala Precision Engineering Private Ltd.........33 Gesipa............................................................................23 Grandmetal...............................................................195 Growermetal Srl..................................................... 103 GWI Werkzeug und Stahl Vertriebs GmbH........157 Hafren Fasteners Ltd..............................................65 Harrison Silverdale.............................................. 169 Heco Schrauben..................................................... 123 Heico Befestigungstechnik............................... 199 Hexstone Group......................................................... 17 Hoenderdaal Fasteners.........................................80 Index Tecnicas Expansivas S.L...........................67 Industrial Recence................................................ 199 Inox Viti ....................................................................... 66 INOXDADI SRL.........................................................101 International Fastener Show China...............107 Jesus Ornate...............................................................92 Jeveka.................................................................... 95, 99 Johan Smit.................................................................167 Joker Industrial Co. Ltd.......................................121 Jubliee Clips..............................................................192 K&H Auto Parts.......................................................188 KINFAST HARDWARE CO LTD..........................115 Kingwin Precision Co Ltd................................... 208 Kronus......................................................................... 171

Krumm & André GmbH & Co. KG.....................115 LD Fasteners............................................................ 169 Lederer GmbH.....................................................22, 24 Lesjofors.....................................................................176 Mac Precision Hardware....................................192 MacDermid................................................................155 Marposs......................................................................149 Mayes & Warwick...................................................149 MBI INDUSTRIES (PVT) LIMITED...................204 Mecavit.......................................................................... 19 Merlin Business Software Ltd.......................... 164 Messe Düsseödorf.................................................. 109 MITOS Srl ................................................................. 205 Motor Clips................................................................177 Mustad SpA.................................................................55 Nakashimada Engineering Works Ltd............43 National Machinery................................................85 ND Industries.................................................... 27, 179 Ningbo Londex...........................................................35 Non Standard Socket Screws.............................. 81 Nord Lock...................................................................214 Norm Civata................................................................53 omniTechnik Mikroverkapselungs GmbH.......153 Orderwise...................................................................168 Pecol............................................................................ 129 PGB - Europe NV................................................... 1, 39 Pinstructure............................................................... 15 Precision Technology Supplies...........................59 PRK Technologies..................................................... 71 Profiroll Technologies GmbH............................147 Puehl..............................................................................49 R+FK Schulte............................................................... 61 Ray Fu Enterprise Co............................................197 Reinhardt...................................................................147 Rexlen Corp.............................................................. 201 Reyher............................................................................33 Rivco............................................................................ 207 Rivit............................................................................. 213 RLS................................................................................152 Rosmil.......................................................................... 171 Rotorclip.....................................................................183 Sacma............................................................................91 San Shing Fastech..................................................137 Sariv...............................................................................93

Saspi Tallers.............................................................. 141 Scell-It..........................................................................187 Schäfer+Peters........................................................167 Schnorr......................................................................... 31 Schwer + Kopka.......................................................143 SD Products...............................................................195 Shanghai Fast-Fix Rivet Corporation...........195 Sheh Fung ................................................................ 123 Sheh Kai Precision Co...........................................131 Shin Chun Enterprise...........................................209 Sipa................................................................................. 51 Skako............................................................................147 Smith Bullough....................................................... 205 Spirol Ind....................................................................181 Stafa................................................................................. 7 Star Fasteners......................................................... 189 STS-Tectorius...........................................................174 SWG Schraubenwerk Gaisbach........................127 Tecfi...............................................................................133 Tecno Impianti........................................................ 156 Tecnologic3................................................................182 Teknoform................................................................. 203 Test GmbH..................................................................159 Teudeloff.....................................................................159 The Insert Company..............................................178 TITIBI........................................................................... 130 Tobsteel...................................................................... 169 Top Screw Metal Corp Ltd...................................211 TOPKRAFT SK..........................................................121 Trojan Special Fasteners....................................212 UBK.............................................................................. 196 Valenta....................................................................... 203 Verbindungselemente Engel GmbH..................77 Videx...............................................................................97 Vipa Spa........................................................................83 VVG Befestigungstechnik.....................................74 Wafios Umformtechnik........................................105 Wan Iuan Enterprise Co Ltd...............................151 Wasi................................................................................87 WPI Services.............................................................157 WTI............................................................................... 199 YUYAO ALFIRSTE HARDWARE CO.,LTD.......135 Zago Manufacturing Inc.......................................29

Bolts • Nuts • Studs Sockets • Washers Machined Specials

High Quality Bespoke Large Nuts & Fasteners Trojan supply to many niche markets with special industrial fasteners and focus on high quality, bespoke custom fasteners.

®®

M4-M52 Metric, #10-2.1/2” Imperial/Unified thread

® ®

Hex, square, flange, dome and round Nuts

Special Metals and Alloys

Over 150 Material Grades 10,000 Ton Inventory Over 250 Machines We Service All Quantities Serving Distributors Worldwide www.GoASF.com

info@GoASF.com

Castle, Slotted, All Metal Prevailing Torque Nuts Manufacturers of hard to find items Very fast manufacturing and delivery times Fully traceable manufacturing and delivery Fully compliant to ISO 9001:2008 quality standard Certificates in materials, heat treatment and plating Certificates of Conformity

www.trojansf.co.uk trojan.fasteners@gmail.com Tel: +44 (0) 121 789 8586 | Fax: +44 (0) 121 789 8006 18 Fortnum Close | Kitts Green | Birmingham | B33 0LG


! c i s u M with t Rivit, a differen con Rivit è tutta

un’al tra Mu sica

!

Come and visit us FASTENER FAIR - STUTTGART

HALL 3 - STAND 1702

RIVIT Srl ITALIA Bologna / Italy T. +39 0514171111 rivit@rivit.it / rivit.it

RIVIT INDIA Pvt Ltd Chennai / India T. +91 44 428 50 250 rivitindia@rivit.in / rivit.in

RIVIT MAROC Sarl Au Temara / Maroc T. +212 661 379 765 rivit@rivit.ma / rivit.it


ALL NORD-LOCK STEEL WASHERS verified for 1,000 hours corrosion resistance in salt spray test Increasing levels of humidity, heat and air pollution are making corrosion more common. Protect your critical bolted joints with the highest salt spray resistance on the market, verified according to ISO 9227. Find out more at www.nord-lock.com Visit us at

Hall 3, Stand nยบ 2204

19-21 MAR


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