Fastener + Fixing Magazine #137 by Fastener + Fixing Magazine

WE ARE THE PRODUCER OF HIGH QUALITY WOOD SCREWS STRONG FOR GENERATIONSwww.klimas.com In this issue… fastenerandfixing.com ≡ Issue 137: September 2022 Klimas – a global fixing provider European Technical Assessments Rail applications

A TRUSTDISTRIBUTORSPACKAGE

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES

From two base products in 1965 to currently over two hundred twenty, ND continues its tradition of cutting edge research and development with the regular introduction of unique materials along with competitive brand offsets.

APPLICATORAUTHORIZED

High strength encapsulated epoxy threadlocker for use in electrical systems where low halogen materials are necessary. Contains small micrometer microcaps which reduce material extrusion on installation.

NDassemblies.servesa

global market with divisions across the continental U.S., Taiwan, and licensees around the world. ND’s core business revolves around the application of a wide variety of materials onto fasteners and assemblies to aid in functions such as locking, sealing, masking, lubricating, and noise and vibration dampening. ND also manufactures a line of bottled products under the Vibra-Tite® brand name for MRO and retail use.

Did you know that ND is an approved 3M applicator? Further proof why ND should be your one stop shop for pre-applied fasteners.

Since 1955 ND Industries has specialized in the development of innovative materials and processes which increase the safety and reliability of fastener

A high temperature, high pressure thread sealant which withstands up to 40MPa. Offering thread locking breakaway torques greater than 20Nm and a maximum temperature of 428°F (220°C). Thermoseal is an extremely versatile product for challenging sealing conditions.

ELECTROLOC®THERMOSEAL™THERMOLOC®1500 • Customer Service Driven • Vertically Integrated • Innovative Products • Global Presence

ND’s highest temperature chemical threadlocker. Initially performs like a vibration dampening compound. Once temperatures reach 750°F (400°C), a secondary activation begins, causing the fastener to be permanently locked in place. Tested to over 1500°F (850°C).

Highest temperature pre-applied nylon threadlocker in the industry. Unlike the competition, ND’s application process requires only 120°C, preventing plating damage. However, once crosslinked, it can withstand temps up to 260°C. Meets MIL-DTL-18240F / QPL-18240.

This pre-applied threadlocker consists of separated epoxy hardener and expoxy resin. Upon fastener installation, the two materials mix and activate. When fully cured, EpoxyLock provides greater breakaway torque than conventional nylon fastener locking devices.

THREAD ARMOR®

EPOXY-LOCK®EXPAND-A-LOCKNUTS®EXPAND-A-SLEEVE™SEALTEK™

Extruded ND Mastics are pre-applied to fasteners (threaded or non-threaded), bound for e-cote cycles. Heat from the process causes the material to expand, sealing large leak paths between fastener and assembly.

An advanced anti-galling and lubricating thread coating designed to extend the life of bolts up to 15 times while under intense torque and high friction loads. Helps to ensure consistent clamp load. Works well on stainless steel fasteners.

A unique pre-applied microencapsulated expanding threadlocking & sealing compound. Increases in volume 20-50% on installation, penetrating the gaps in fastener threads typically unfilled by conventional threadlockers.

An acrylic-based sealing material which is applied to the underhead of the fastener. SealTek’s robust seal replaces the need for O-rings, gaskets, or sealing washers. VC

Prevents galvanic corrosion in assemblies with dissimilar metals, such as aluminum, and steel, by electrically isolating the fastener. Specially bonded to the fastener, ND Galvanic Patch is durable, chemical resistant, and non-conductive.

ND PATCH® HI-TEMP

THREAD ARMOR®

READY FOR DEPARTURE! W2 FASTENERSBREATHEE ® MANUFACTURER & DISTRIBUTOR Come meet us at the Eisenwaremesse. Booth Hall 11.2 Stand O019 Each day our products ship out throughout Europe. We are looking forward to depart to the first international fair in a long time and meeting our customers again in person. It has been too long! At our booth, we will update you on our latest developments of various products and logistic services. For more information: www.pgb-europe.com Ranging from real-life product solutions to smart digital services that lift your business to a higher level. pgb-Europe is ready to help you progress as a partner. Let’s talk soon! Looking for FREE tickets for the Eisenwarenmesse? Contact our sales representatives or visit www.pgb-europe.com

CONTENTS

COVERNEWSINSIGHTSTORY Financial reports, acquisitions and trade duty news 12-36 38-39 40-66 Full coating service from Growermetal DIV Group looks to take advantage of EU AD Freightdutiesforwarders changing position in supply chain Litnaglis investing in capacity and capabilities Worldwide presence, local service Fastener distribution in the USA Will wearing blinkers lead to myopia and how could it impact the fastener industry? A specialist in fixings and fasteners Twenty years in the UAE A new step for Bülte EXHIBITIONS FIXINGSCONSTRUCTION68-7678-102 Through quality comes innovation Assessing the proposed CPR revision Innovative anchoring intelligence ETA feature TECHNOLOGYMANUFACTURING 104-126 MANAGEMENT + SYSTEMS 134-140 TECHNOLOGYAPPLICATION 142-150 Rail feature PRODUCTS + TOOLS 152-168 Klimas – a global fixing provider Collated fasteners, nailers, staplers + systems Coatings,featurelubrications + locking technologies feature TESTING 128-132 38 From peddler to prospector: The changing role of outside sales 1107078 8 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022 46144

www.pasvahl.de It‘s ﬁxed. Fit bolts, plugs, knurled thumb screws, square head bolts, ﬂat headed screws, hexagon set screws, brass screws and specials . Up to 34 million special screws directly from stock! Fon +49 (0) 40 532 852-0 · E-Mail: info@pasvahl.de DIN 912

Will Lowry, content director, Fastener + Fixing Magazine

Another article that is about investments is our Cover Story, which concentrates on Polish manufacturer Klimas Wkręt-met and how, to ensure it builds on its global identity, it has committed to ongoing investments in its production, new offices, as well as its people –even during the current market challenges.

Next up we have the Coatings, Lubrications + Locking Technologies feature in Manufacturing Technology. Articles include Pasquale Cozzolino, tier 1 manager EU GMF – region Europe/India GMF at Atotech, talking about coating solutions for woodscrews; Cavin Ciaciuch, chemist at ND Industries Inc, highlights the capabilities of the ND Microspheres® TA Series of pre-applied threadlocking materials; and DÖRKEN showcases its new contactless, precise and digital measuring process that can record different component surfaces. Also within Manufacturing Technology there is an interview with Andrew Kalnow, CEO at National Machinery, about developments at the global leader in advanced cold and warm forming machinery, process technology, and customer support products and services.

FindTel:AshleyVerulamnon–tradeAnnualmeansretrievalpartEntireCopyrightnecessarilywithinfromliableaccuratecarematerialliableTheDisclaimerEuropeanpublicationFastenerlee.duskwick@verulammedia.comLeeProductionchantal.ridings@verulammedia.comChantalBusinessemiliano.pagliaroli@verulammedia.comEmilianoBusinessmac.rahman@verulammedia.comMacSalesrebecca.england@verulammedia.comRebeccaEditorialclaire.aldridge@verulammedia.comClaireDeputywill.lowry@verulammedia.comWillContentjamie.mitchell@verulammedia.comMitchellDirectorLowryEditorAldridgeAssistantEnglandDirectorRahmanDevelopmentManager–ItalyPagliaroliDevelopmentManager–EuropeRidings&DesignManagerDuskwick+FixingMagazineisadedicated,trade–onlywhichiscirculatedfreelythroughoutthetrade.Publishercannotbeheldresponsibleor,inanyway,forerrorsoromissions,duringinputorprintingofanysuppliedorcontainedhereinalthoughtheutmostistakentoensurethatinformationcontainedisanduptodate.ThePublisheralsocannotbeheldforanyclaimsmadebyadvertisersorincontributionsindividualsorcompaniessubmittedforinclusionthispublication.TheopinionsexpressedarenotthoseoftheEditororVerulamMedia.contentscopyright©VerulamMediaLtd2022.Noofthispublicationmaybereproduced,storedinasystem,ortransmittedinanyformorbyanywithoutthepriorpermissionofthepublisher.subscription(6issues)toandoutsideEUis€160.00MediaLimited,Office121,Road134,StAlbansAL15JR+44(0)1727743882FastenerandFixingMagazine@fastenerfixingfastener---fixing-magazineFastenerandFixingusonline:

Also in the section there are articles on Growermetal and its full coating service; Triplefast Middle East celebrating 20 years of operation in the United Arab Emirates; and ForgeFix points out the steps it has taken to develop the products and services it can provide as a specialist supplier of fixings and fasteners; plus, Nick Ruetz of AIS, and president of the National Fastener Distributors Association (NFDA), tells us how the US market has handled the challenges of the last two years.

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Part of the Mack Brooks Group

In addition to a multitude of articles on investments, it is also great to see that more face-to-face exhibitions are returning, with our Exhibitions section including previews on EISENWARENMESSE – International Hardware Fair Köln in September, FASTENER POLAND® in October and Fastener Fair Italy at the end of November. The latter of which we will have

www.fastenerandfixing.com Managing Director Jamie

In Construction Fixings we have an exclusive interview with Tassilo Deinzer, member of the executive board at Hilti Group –responsible for the Fastening & Protection Business Area, where we discuss the role of the CPR and ETA system within the construction sector. To add to this, we also have an exclusive interview with Sebastian Wall, president at the European Organisation for Technical Assessment (EOTA) about the proposed revision of the CPR and the potential impact on the fixing sector.

owhere is this more apparent than in our Insight section, with a host of companies discussing recent investments. Firstly, DIV Group reports on how it is financial restructuring in order to take advantage of the recent anti-dumping duties introduced by the European Commission. Next, nail manufacturer Litnaglis emphasises its recent investments in order to drive efficiencies at the business even higher; and we find out why Gecko International is expanding its production to meet customers’ needs.

a full preview for in our November edition, alongside a special Made in Italy feature.

With a plethora of challenges currently impacting companies around the world, this edition of Fastener + Fixing Magazine underlines how companies within the sector are still investing in order to grow their capacities and capabilities – to meet the needs of new and existing markets.

The continuesindustrytoinvest

EDITOR’S NOTE

Other articles include Jason Bader, Principle at The Distribution Team, looking at the changing role of outside sales; SMT Srl, the independent testing laboratory and mechanical workshop, focusing on yield strength and how there are different yield values that are required by different standards; and Nord-Lock Group analysing how smart products can redefine bolt maintenance.

NEW IN STOCK OUR WEBSHOP achill-fasteners.com DIN 912 DIN 931 / DIN 933 ISO 7380-1 / ISO 7380-2 DIN 6921 DIN 6912 DIN 934 ISO 4014 / ISO 4017 DIN 960 / DIN 961 ISO 10642 / DIN 7991 DIN 7984 DIN 125 SINCEQUALITY1951 Achilles Seibert D-24558Philipp-Reis-StraßeGmbH3Henstedt-Ulzburg THE GLOBAL PARTNER FOR DISTRIBUTORS Tel +49 (0) 41 93 89 55 Fax +49 (0) 41 93 89 56 sales@achill-fasteners.com99 EDINEW TAPPING SCREWS ISO 14585 ISO 14586 type C DRILLING SCREWS ISO 15481 ISO 15482 DIN 7504 type K THREAD ROLLING SCREWS ISO 14583 ISO 14579 ISO 14580 ISO 14581 DIN 7500 CE/M HEXAGON SOCKET SET SCREWS DIN 913 DIN 914 DIN 915 DIN 916 NUTS DIN 985 DIN 6923

Bufab also recently acquired the Polish company CDA Polska Sp z.o.o, which has annual sales of approximately SEK 90 million (€8.4 million). The acquisition is a strategic addition to Bufab’s business in Segment East and, together with the previous acquisitions of Pajo-Bolte and TI Midwood (TIMCO), strengthens the Group’s offering in the construction industry.

SFS Group generated gross sales of CHF 1.22 billion (€ 1.25 billion) in the first half of the year, which corresponds to year-on-year growth of 27.8%. In addition to organic growth of 9.8%, there were consolidation effects of 19.3%, primarily as a result of the first time consolidation of Hoffmann as of 1 st May. Currency effects reduced sales growth by -1.3%.

INDUSTRY NEWS NEWS

The two divisions of the Fastening Systems segment took advantage of the opportunities presented by the continuing dynamic market environment in the construction industry. The strong demand that has existed since the end of 2020 continued unabated in the first half of 2022. The performance of the Riveting division was also positive in most of its other application areas. Business in the automotive industry continued to be characterised by supply chain bottlenecks on the customer side. Segment sales amounted to CHF 334.5 million, which corresponds to year-on-year growth of 14.1%.

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COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE OF KEY

emand for SFS products remained high over the period in most end markets and regions – regardless of the considerable uncertainty due to the war in Ukraine, sustained disruption in supply chains, further waves of Covid-19 in Asia and Europe and an environment of rising interest rates and inflation. As in the previous financial year, a high-level of delivery readiness remained a strong competitive advantage. The continued ability to deliver to customers was maintained thanks to local production sites, robust and largely regional supply chains and the tremendous commitment of the employees.

Adjusted for remeasured additional purchase considerations, Bufab’s operating profit increased by a full 64% and the margin was significantly strengthened. “Although the quarter continued to be affected by supply chain disruptions, long delivery lead times and some component shortages, the situation has stabilised. We are seeing indications among our companies of improved availability and shorter lead times, which together creates fewer disruptions and thus a better flow,” mentions Johan.

In a challenging environment shaped by considerable uncertainty, SFS Group exceeded its growth targets in all regions and end markets in the first half of 2022 – with the exception of the automotive industry.

Strong second quarter for Bufab

“The process of integrating the recent acquisition is well under way. By applying our Best Practice model, this work strengthens both existing and newly acquired companies,” explains Johan. “We also continue to develop our operations in the long-term by gradually broadening our customer offering and increasing our degree of digitalisation and productivity. For example, we launched a new eCommerce solution during the quarter, implemented more logistic solutions, and improved the efficiency of several processes using Robotic Process Automation (RPA). Our sustainability programme is an increasingly important aspect for our customers, and us, and is an area in which we can really make a difference for our customers. Our efforts have intensified significantly in recent times under the framework of the Science Based Target initiative.”

SFS exceeds its growth targets in first half of 2022

ohan Lindqvist, president and CEO at Bufab, comments: “The second quarter was another strong quarter for Bufab. We reported continued strong growth, a stable gross margin, a robust result, and continued acquisitions. We noted growth of 57% in the quarter, of which 16% was organic. This organic growth was a result of price increases and healthy underlying demand in all segments. It is also gratifying that we continue to capture market shares and that our order intake is stable.”

Bufab Group has reported its second quarter net sales increased by 57% to SEK 2.24 billion (2021: SEK 1.43 billion) of which 16% was organic growth. The Group also completed the acquisition of CDA Polska, a specialist in the Polish construction sector.

The weakening in customer demand in the automotive industry, seen in the course of the first half of the year, had a negative impact on capacity utilisation in automotive related business areas. This led to an uneven utilisation of production capacities overall. Profitability was also affected by the rising costs of commodities, energy and personnel.

Acquisitions continue

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owmet Aerospace also reported net income of US$147 million in the second quarter of 2022 versus net income of US$74 million in the second quarter 2021. Net income excluding special items was US$149 million for Q2 2022, versus US$96 million in 2021.

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Howmet Aerospace has reported second quarter 2022 revenues of US$1.39 billion (€1.39 billion), up 17% year-on-year, primarily driven by growth in the commercial aerospace market of 34%.

Bulten had previously announced the closure of its Russian operation, which was bought by the Russian company CAR SEATS LLC. All shares in the joint venture company previously owned by Bulten and GAZ were redeemed.

suki group has acquired the French group VT Fastware, which includes Vynex, Tréfilaction and FTV-Asia. Both suki group and VTF are active in the distribution of DIY products, such as hardware in a wider context, hand tools, self-adhesives and other DIY essentials.

The management team of VTF will remain in place in its entirety and work jointly together with the suki group board. Hervé Hacot will remain CEO of Vynex and Tréfilaction. Sebastian Laus is the CEO of the enlarged suki group.

Howmet Aerospace reports revenue growth

Hervé Hacot, CEO of VTF, explains: “The DIY market is becoming increasingly global and more and more complex with new skills to be developed to meet increasing demands. With suki group we found the ideal and fully complementary partner in Europe, geographically and in terms of product ranges, with hardware as a common point. In all other ranges we will be able to take advantage of our individual skills.”

A strong part of the acquisition is that suki group strongly supports the industrial relocation project initiated by Vynex and this should become a major accelerator for the group. Sebastian Laus adds: “We are excited to become, through VTF’s initiative, producers of high-quality woodscrews ‘Made in Europe.”

“Howmet Aerospace delivered another strong set of results as the commercial aerospace recovery continued in Q2 of 2022. Looking ahead, commercial aerospace narrow body production rates continue to improve and are the primary growth driver through 2022, while we expect wide body volumes to improve as we move into 2023,” commented John Plant, executive chairman and chief executive officer at Howmet Aerospace. “While 2022 is a transition year for Howmet’s defence aerospace growth following last year’s updated F-35 build rate forecast, we continue to expect the defence aerospace market to resume growth in 2023. Commercial transportation is expected to improve as customer supply chain challenges ease, while industrial gas turbine and oil and gas should grow further as we progress through 2022.”

Bulten AB has achieved net sales of SEK 1.006 billion (€93.94 million) in the second quarter of 2022, an increase of 10.5% on the same period last year (SEK 910 million). Operating earnings (EBIT) totalled SEK 41 million (2021: SEK 55 million), equating to an operating margin of 4.1%.

Bulten achieves higher sales

Fastening Systems reported revenue of US$277 million, an increase of 6% year-on-year due to growth in the commercial aerospace market with narrow body recovery more than offsetting Boeing 787 production declines, as well as declines in the industrial market.

ebastian Laus, CEO of suki group, comments: “I’m happy to welcome VTF into the growing suki group. The acquisition of VTF is a unique opportunity for the future of the two groups. Together, we will be better able to serve our customers in different regions and sales channels.”

Finally, VTF’s packing centres in China and Vietnam will of course offer their services to suki group; more generally, a sharing of suppliers in Asia will allow to improve the management of the supply chain of both groups.

For Vynex this is a major opportunity to further strengthen its ROCKET® brand, the main brand of technical woodscrews for the building and renovation industry in France. This prospect of international sales development will help to consolidate the industrial relocation plan in France and consequently to increase the volumes produced in the Ardennes through growth.

nders Nyström, president and CEO at Bulten AB, states: “The second quarter was characterised by a volatile business climate, where costs increased in tandem with fluctuations in our production. Underlying demand in the automotive industry remained strong, but unfortunately our customers’ production volumes were negatively impacted early in the quarter by widespread component shortages. On a positive note, however, at the end of the quarter the production disruptions decreased significantly and we also finalised the closure of our operation in Russia.”

suki FastwareacquiresgroupVT

Additionally, suki group business units Facido (multichannel provider for many innovative DIY manufacturers of decoration, flooring and sanitary ranges) as well as DBM.S (merchandising organisation in many European countries) will deliver further synergies and opportunities.

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In the EMEA business region, NORMA Group generated sales revenues of €121.6 million in Q2 of 2022, corresponding to a year-on-year decline of 1.3% (Q2 2021: €123.1 million). This was attributable to the continued decline in customer demand in the European automotive market, as well as lower sales of standardised joining technology.

The team of Bernd Müller, board member of Sattler & Partner AG, has exclusively advised the shareholders of TITAN during all phases of the transaction. Details of the transaction were not disclosed.

ITAN focuses on the development, production and distribution of spacer bolts and spacer sleeves made of brass, steel, and aluminium, for applications in a wide variety of industries. The sale of the company to ETTINGER GmbH is a continuation of a long-lasting and close cooperation between TITAN and ETTINGER, which is now placed on a new and sustainable basis.

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Sound growth in the first half of 2022

“Our joining solutions are in demand worldwide and our order books are well filled. I am confident that we can meet this demand more profitably than we are currently in a position to do. With targeted measures, we will initially leverage short-term savings potential and also further improve both our efficiency and processes in the medium term. Our long-term goal of sustainably profitable growth remains in place,” explains Dr Michael Schneider.

The Kurschildgen family that owned TITAN will withdraw from the company after a short transition period. Mr Stefan Wickler (TITAN) will be responsible for the operational business as managing director of TITAN. Mr Simon Kleinbruckner-Nangru from ETTINGER will be responsible for quality, process and environmental management as second managing director.

NORMA Group grows in second quarter of 2022

Second quarter earnings for 2022 in the EMEA region were negatively impacted by lower sales, higher material prices and temporarily higher costs in the course of moving some product lines from a plant in Thuringia to existing plants in Germany and the Czech Republic. NORMA Group has also initiated a range of measures in order to improve profitability. In the EMEA region, in particular, the company intends to increase the productivity of its plants, carefully scrutinise operating costs and offset higher material prices even more consistently with price increases.

In the America region, sales were up 29.7% to €155.3 million in the period from April to June 2022 (Q2 2021: €119.7 million). Roughly half of this strong growth was driven by organic growth and half by positive currency effects. Business with water management solutions for stormwater management and efficient irrigation was again very positive.

Despite the strained situation on the global raw material markets, uncertainties in the energy sector, and higher inflation, NORMA Group has significantly improved its sales compared to 2021.

ETTINGER,

In the Asia-Pacific region, sales amounted to €41.1 million in Q2 of 2022, an increase of 5.8% compared to the previous year (Q2 2021: €38.8 million). The increase was the result of positive currency effects; organically, sales declined by 2.8%. In particular, modest demand from the Chinese automotive industry for joining solutions, as a result of Corona related lockdowns, had a negative impact. By contrast, the water management business in India, Malaysia and Australia developed positively.

“We grew again in the second quarter,” says Dr Michael Schneider, CEO at NORMA Group. “Thanks in particular to strong business with water supply, irrigation and drainage products in America, we achieved robust results despite unexpectedly high burdens from the impact of the Ukraine War, Corona restrictions in China and general inflation. We managed to partially offset our increased material and logistics service costs through higher selling prices.”

n the period from April to June 2022, NORMA Group generated Group sales of €317.9 million – a year-on-year increase of 12.9% (Q2 2021: €281.7 million). Organic sales growth was 5.3%. Positive currency effects, particularly in connection with the US dollar, contributed an additional 7.5% to sales growth. Net operating cash flow in the second quarter of 2022 was about €26.4 million and was thus well below the prior year figure (Q2 2021: €36.8 million).

ETTINGER acquires TITAN a supplier for electromechanical components, has acquired 100% of the shares in TITAN Befestigungstechnik GmbH, a well established medium sized fastening technology manufacturer.

In the first six months of the current financial year, Group sales were €622.3 million, an increase of 9.5% compared to the previous year (H1 2021: €568.1 million). Organically, sales grew by 3.8% in the six month period. The main contributors to this positive development included good business with water management solutions in the Americas region; positive currency effects; and price effects from increased selling prices.

still be run as a family company whilst sharing many of the same cultural values of quality, customer focus and industry expertise. These qualities will ensure that Fixings Plus and Whitehouse Industries will be a great success moving forward. The added investment Whitehouse Industries can provide will also enable the business to continue to grow in the future.”

“The Indian industry is at a crossroads where the customers today are looking to enjoy the value added services, which are being enjoyed by their counterparts in the developed markets; over and above the good quality of the product. Being a fastener manufacturer, we needed a specialist who understands the industry requirements by providing world-class inventory service at an affordable price. Based in Germany, Keller & Kalmbach fits into this role perfectly. We are excited to present the new company,” says Deepak Arneja, managing director and CEO at Mohindra Fasteners Limited.

Birmingham-based distributor Nutters Fastenings Ltd and Coventry-based Bailey and Wade Engineering Ltd, and Anchor Inserts, are also part of Whitehouse Industries, a business created by entrepreneur Stuart Whitehouse to build a group of UK-based mutually beneficial businesses.

MKS acquisitionclosesInstrumentsAtotech

“I am delighted to be adding Fixings Plus to the group. It is an excellent business, with great staff and is a strong strategic fit –providing us with enhanced scale in our core business areas,” comments Stuart Whitehouse, managing director at Whitehouse Industries. “It is a well known company in the Midlands and has been involved in most, if not all the major building projects in the Birmingham area. It is a testament to the leadership and the efforts of all the staff that it has delivered significant growth in the business since lockdown restrictions were lifted, whilst maintaining its usual excellent service levels.”

Whitehouse Industries names latest acquisition

MKSfamily.”Instruments is a global provider of technologies that enable advanced processes and improve productivity. It delivers foundational technology solutions to leading edge semiconductor manufacturing, advanced electronics and speciality industrial applications.

Keller & Kalmbach and Mohindra Fasteners enter joint venture

Keller & Kalmbach Group has formed a joint venture with Indian-based Mohindra Fasteners Ltd, a manufacturer of cold and hot forged fasteners and precision machined components for automotive and industrial applications, to provide local support to industrial customers in India.

“With KK Mohindra Fastenings, we will combine the best of both worlds – the manufacturing expertise of Mohindra Fasteners on the Indian market and the specialisation of Keller & Kalmbach in terms of intelligent and customised C-parts management for industrial companies. In addition to fasteners, KK Mohindra Fastenings will offer a wide range of C-parts and will always focus on efficiency, supply security and process optimisation with intelligent C-part management tools. With our experience in application technology, we optimise material flow and aim to build responsible partnerships with our customers in India and offer new ways of thinking in the manufacturing industry,” summarises Dr Florian Seidl, managing director at Keller & Kalmbach.

Whitehouse Industries has announced a number of new acquisitions over the past few months as part of its growth strategy to consolidate services in the manufacturing sector, with UK-based Fixings Plus the latest to be added.

MKS Instruments Inc has announced the completion of the previously announced acquisition of Atotech Limited for approximately US$4.4 billion in cash and MKS common stock.

Russell Fincham, managing director of Fixings Plus, added: “What really appealed about Whitehouse Industries is that the business will

s well as providing local support, the joint venture, named KK Mohindra Fastenings Private Limited, will look to continuously expand its activities and implement VMI, Kanban and other C-parts management tools to Indian and international industrial plants in India – using a variety of eLogistics solutions such as RFID based Kanban systems, etc.

ohn T.C Lee, president and CEO of MKS Instruments, commented: “The acquisition of Atotech positions MKS to accelerate roadmaps for future generations of advanced electronic devices. By combining leading capabilities in lasers, optics, motion and now process chemistry, MKS is set to be a leader in the next frontier for miniaturisation and complexity: Optimising the Interconnect SM , a significant enabling point of next generation advanced electronics. Atotech’s leadership in functional and decorative surface finishing will also extend MKS’ product offering for industrial applications and grow our market reach. I could not be more excited to welcome the Atotech team to the MKS

ounded in 2004 Fixings Plus Ltd is a major supplier of fixings, fasteners and complementary products to the construction industry. Based in central Birmingham, UK, it has been involved in recent prestigious projects such as the Midland Metro and the Commonwealth Village. The purchase of Fixings Plus expands Whitehouse Industries’ offering into construction fixing systems and other supplies for the construction industry.

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KK Mohindra Fastenings is planning to start its operations in about six months in Pune and will enlarge its horizon to other geographical locations in the next phase to cater customers on a Pan-India basis.

As a chemical engineer and post-graduate from the IESE Business School, Javier Sanz has developed most of his professional career at Quilosa Selena Iberia, where he has carried out a successful job in the sales and marketing field for the last 25 years. He has been the general sales manager of Quilosa since 2015 and also became part of the board of directors and as a result, has extensive experience in the adhesives and sealants sector.

ForgeFix has made several key appointments over the last few months, including Paul Swift as managing director – who joins the company from Tyman Plc, a leading global window and door hardware manufacturer.

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“I am looking forward to the challenge of running a larger company in a new region, working within an industry that I know and love so well. I will bring with me my engineering expertise from my years at Sturtevant Richmont and apply that to the vibrant and fast moving markets that Norbar serves,” commented John.

NEWS - INDUSTRY

New CEO at QS Adhesives & Sealants

Andrew Lobo added: “Though my leaving the managing director position is a bittersweet moment, I have every confidence in John to continue to drive Norbar towards a successful future. I am proud of all we achieved in bringing the Snap-on expertise together with the rich Norbar history and will continue to work with its teams and those from Sturtevant Richmont as I return to Snap-on in the US.”

The company has also appointed a new head of marketing, Rebecca Fortescue-Halliwell, who has a depth of experience in the fixings and fasteners sector, including Swiftec Group, SPARKA UK Ltd and T.I.Midwood & Co Ltd (TIMCO). Rebecca will be proactively supporting merchant customers and leading the company’s ‘Voice of the Customer’ initiative, designed to put the merchant at the heart of everything it does.

he family business, known in the market under the QS brand name, was co-founded by the Sanz Muñoz family from Elche with first and second generation members. It continues to grow and consolidate its position in the market today.

The key figures for the 2021 financial year, including sales of €210 million, and the first half of 2022 now show that Dresselhaus has returned to its old profitability with the realignment and has thus put a difficult phase behind.

“I assume with enormous personal and professional enthusiasm the mission of leading one of the few Spanish companies in the adhesives and sealants sector with the trajectory and potential of QS. Personally, I fully identify with the values, entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to service and the export motivation of this company,” comments Javier Sanz. “I appreciate the confidence provided from all the Sanz family. I am taking over the challenge with the hope of achieving the goals that we have set for ourselves in this new stage. I am convinced that together, with the great professional team that I am joining, we will be able to place QS as one of the leading brands in the market, both domestically and internationally – where it already operates.”

Markus Schörg, managing director at Dresselhaus since March 2021, has reorganised the top management level at the business in order to make the organisation of the company more transparent and lean.

resselhaus’ top management level is made up from Axel Türke – chief sales officer, Stephan Pertschy – chief sales and marketing officer, Alexander Kretschmer – chief procurement officer, Mario Plank – chief logistics officer, Andreas Bruchmann – chief financial officer, Markus Kniebeisser – chief information officer, as well as Uwe Stein – chief operating officer southern branches.

“With the typical Dresselhaus virtues and our customers in focus, we will be able to continue on the successful course we have embarked on together,” reported Markus Schörg.

Javier Sanz is the new CEO of QS Adhesives & Sealants S.L, a Spanish manufacturer of adhesives and sealants founded in 1995.

ForgeFixB

Norbar appoints new managing director

K-based ForgeFix is known as a specialist for fasteners and fixings. As new managing director, Paul’s main focus will be on changing how the company approaches its supply chain coupled with a return to the ‘ForgeFix way’, which means flexibility, excellent customer service and protecting the company’s reputation as the friendly supplier that is easy to deal with, as well as always being there to support businesses.

UK-based Norbar Torque Tools Ltd has appointed John Reynertson as new managing director, replacing Andrew Lobo.

announces new appointments

ringing 36 years of experience in the torque tool industry to the role, John will lead Norbar’s global operations. He was previously president at Sturtevant Richmont, a US company recently purchased by Norbar’s owner Snap-on. His appointment is part of the continuing collaboration between the three organisations to bring customers the best quality torque products for their industries.

Management changes at Dresselhaus

Steve Moore also joins the business as product support demonstrator and will become a familiar face in merchant branches up and down the country. Steve has a trade background and will demonstrate the ForgeFix family of brands, which includes SPECTRE ™, Coreplus and FORGEFAST

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NORMA Group has put a fifth plant into operation in China, which is strategically positioned near Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) and other OEMs of electric vehicles. At the new plant, NORMA manufactures and assembles thermal management systems for battery-electric vehicles (BEV) and plug-in hybrid cars (PHEV).

“China is the largest manufacturer of new-energy vehicles in the world. More than one third of all battery-electric and hybrid vehicles come from Chinese production sites, either by national OEMs or by joint ventures,” points out Dr Michael Schneider, CEO at NORMA Group. “With the new plant in Guangzhou, we are further expanding our market position through a targeted investment according to our localisation strategy. By offering our products and services where the demand is, we can provide efficient logistics, improved shipment costs and engineering services close to the customer.”

lederer-world.comEXPLOREMORE:Stainless Steel Fasteners

The site is a branch of NORMA Group’s plant in Qingdao in eastern China (Shandong province), which has been in operation since 2008 and currently running at full capacity. NORMA Group operates five plants in China, two for metal joining solutions such as clamps, and clips, and three plants for plastic solutions such as quick connectors, tubes and complete fluid systems.

urrently the plant is serving customer orders for fluid transport systems that have already been booked. Series production for other regional customers are being prepared. The new facilities on the premises of the Datang Auto Technology Park has a total space of 2,500m 2 and an initial annual production volume of around two million parts. In further expansion stages NORMA Group plans to increase the capacity to five million parts. Around 65 employees currently work at the Guangzhou plant; the number is expected to rise to over 100 by the end of the year.

as they continue to drive the technological transformation of the transport sector.”

During the opening of the new site, China Country Leader Michael Eisner, who is responsible for NORMA Group’s business activities in China, said: “We already see and expect further increase in demand for advanced joining technology for electric vehicles. With our significantly expanded production capacities in China, we are well positioned to serve Chinese customers

In 2021 NORMA Group generated €173 million in sales in the Asia-Pacific region, which amounts to 16% of Group turnover. The Chinese automotive market is a strategic market for NORMA Group in the region, together with the market for water managements products in India, Malaysia and Australia, the automotive market in India, as well as the market for industry applications in various countries.

NORMA Group expands production capacities in China

NEWS - INDUSTRY

Tom concluded: “Customers in these high-tech sectors stipulate raw material from selected approved sources and the wire being manufactured to specific AMS and ASTM specifications. We adopt these practices, making it easy for customers to select AWI as their programme partner. This is further strengthened by our quality and operational systems being accredited to AS 9100 (aerospace) and ISO 13485 (medical devices).”

The company’s shipping department also put in place a number of contingency plans with some of the world’s best transport carriers, ensuring its material can be anywhere in Europe within three weeks of the order being placed.

UK-based Alloy Wire International (AWI), which supplies round, flat and profile wire, has seen orders soar to nearly a third of its predicted GB£13 million annual turnover, with the company’s commitment to short lead times and security of supply securing a string of new clients.

NEWS - INDUSTRY

AWI records a major increase in European sales

WI explains that investments in creating a strong network of sales offices across the globe are really paying off, with local on-the-ground knowledge now present in forty countries and proving crucial to building strong relationships in the automotive, aerospace, high value engineering, medical, oil and gas and nuclear sectors.

He continued: “A lot of our growth has come through our ability to meet supply requirements when we say we are going to do it. Our

lead times are three weeks, and this is among some of the fastest in the industry, thanks predominantly to our investment in 400 tonnes of stock at any one time; the quality of our production capabilities in the UK; and our logistical operation.”

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Tom Mander, managing director at AWI, commented: “We’ve seen all the newspaper headlines around BREXIT and the complications it is causing, but we’re bucking the national trend it seems. Yes, it hasn’t been easy, and we’ve had to spend a lot of time and money in getting the processes right. However, the results speak for themselves with European sales up 20% over the last twelve months, underlining the importance of supply chain resilience.”

AWI, which operates from two factories in the West Midlands and Yorkshire, has seen similar growth outside of Europe, with the buoyant oil and gas industry encouraging a major surge in North American business. Demand for round and profile wire – manufactured in corrosion resistant and/or high temperature resistant alloys such as Inconel X-750, Phynox, Inconel 718 and Hastelloy C-276 – is coming from customers producing springs and fasteners that are used deep underground or under the ocean.

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outhern Fasteners, based in Winston-Salem, NC, provides commercial fasteners and industrial supplies to MRO and OEM customers. The company lists operations in Montgomery, AL; Anaheim, CA; Orlando, FL; Pendergrass, GA; D’Iberville, MS; Greenville, SC; New Johnsonville, TN; Houston, TX; Richmond, VA; and Parkersburg, WV.

However, when mechanics in Everett removed the cradles, “nearly 100 improperly installed fasteners clattered to the factory floor”.

“A subsequent inspection found the South Carolina team in Everett had installed hundreds of temporary fasteners near the join between the two aft fuselage sections without the collars needed to hold them in place,” according to the Times.

by John Wolz,

NEWS - NORTH AMERICA 26 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

ParkOhio completed the acquisitions during a strong second quarter performance. Revenue increased 22% to

US$429 million (€417.8 million), boosted by strong results from its Supply Technologies and Engineered Products segments. Net income improved to US$1 million from a US$3.5 million loss in the second quarter of 2021.

GlobalFastenerNews.comeditor,

Likewise, an “unusual production mishap” on the 787 assembly line in Everett, WA, revealed a continued problem with incomplete fuselage sections from Boeing’s South Carolina facility, according to the Seattle “DuringTimes.787assembly, before the point where all the fuselage sections and wings are joined to make the complete airframe, the fuselage sections are held in place by cradles,” wrote Dominic Gates of the Times. “After the join is made, the cradles are lowered and removed.”

It is unclear how long it will take Boeing to deliver all 120 backlogged planes, which were built at factories in Washington state and South Carolina, with each one needing to be cleared by the FAA.

ParkOhio bolsters its fastener business

he Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will approve the company’s process for validating fixes to each plane before they are delivered to airline customers.

Supply Technologies segment sales rose 13% to an all time quarterly high of US$175.8 million, breaking the previous record of US$168.8 million established last quarter. Sales gains were driven by “strong customer demand in the majority of our end markets, with the biggest increases in heavy-duty truck, semiconductor, industrial and agricultural equipment, and civilian aerospace”. Average daily sales increased 18%, with operating income up 24% to US$12.7 million.

Q2 operating margins improved to 7.2%, “as profit flow-through from the higher sales levels and the favorable impact of pricing initiatives more than offset higher supply chain costs and general inflation”.

As reported by GlobalFastenerNews.com, fasteners played a prominent role in the nearly three year delay of the Dreamliner as supply disruptions and improper installation plagued its test aircraft fleet.

Boeing also had an issue with overtorqued fasteners in some of the first 787s. The aircraft manufacturer discovered hairline cracks in wings “stemmed from fasteners used to connect aluminum shear ties on the wing ribs to the carbon fibre composite wing panel”, according

ParkOhio has acquired Southern Fasteners & Supply and Charter Automotive (Changzhou) Co Ltd, both of which will join ParkOhio’s Supply Technologies segment and bolster its fastener business.

FAAS clears Boeing to resume 787 Dreamliner deliveries

Based in Changzhou, China, Charter Automotive “is strategic to our fastener manufacturing business and will accelerate the global growth of proprietary products to EV and other auto related platforms”, explained ParkOhio.

Boeing could soon resume deliveries of its large 787 airliner, which has been plagued by a series of production issues since late 2020, the Associated Press (AP) reports.

“Southern Fasteners complements Supply Technologies’ growth initiatives centered around industrial supply and MRO products to our global OEM customer base,” pointed out ParkOhio.

“Approval to resume deliveries would be a boost for Boeing, which collects a big chunk of each plane’s purchase price at delivery,” according to AP.

Boeing has accumulated a backlog of about 120 undelivered 787s. The plane, which Boeing calls the Dreamliner, lists at US$248 million to US$338 million depending on size.

Issues with the 787 started in 2020 when small gaps were found between panels of the fuselage that are made of carbon composite material. Inspections turned up problems with a pressurization bulkhead at the front of the plane. Boeing also had to replace titanium parts including fasteners after it was discovered that the Italian supplier used alloys that did not meet FAA standards.

to the Wall Street Journal. “The fasteners were over-tightened without the use of manufacturing fillers, compressing a gap in the structure and in some cases caused hairline cracks of less than an inch. If left unchecked it can cause unintended stress on the jet’s structure and lead to further damage.”

indFast CEO Bill Niketas comments: “We believe the combination of LSG and Star will give our collective customers the unparalleled ability to meet all of their fastener needs with one company. With Star’s 14 branches and distribution centers across North America, and the 16 locations we have, this collective footprint will allow our customers to access product even more efficiently than in the past.”

Shipping has improved, but Tim Roberto, president of Star Stainless Screw Co, said “ports can’t handle” the shipping as is and “any little bump down the road” creates larger problems. “Your customers are going through the same problems,” Roberto pointed out.

Morgan Burgoyne, CEO at TFC, added: “AFC was a natural fit for us. With a shared vision and AFC’s support, TFC will be well positioned to further strengthen its support for existing customers and expand into new regions and markets.”

Angela Philippart of AFC Industries, who has 25 years in various purchasing roles, said a key will be “keeping lines of communication open in the supply chain”. AFC has relied on “communication and collaboration”.Robertoagreed there is a need to share information. Star Stainless is relying on supply chain relationships, he said. “We are all swimming in the same ocean,” panel moderator Eric Dudas

NFDA panelists: Supply chain faces ‘bumps’

LindFastJ acquires Star

In 2021 AFC Industries was acquired by Foster City, CA-based Bertram Capital.

Stainless Screw Co

Philippart said AFC is ordering further in advance and working with domestic partners for “greater control over the order board”. In buying domestic, AFC is looking “at the total cost of imported product”.

Kochan touted EFG’s internship program and noted he just hired an engineer who had been an intern. He had once been “third shift on the shop floor in Alabama who others had helped along”. Kochan urged management to be engaged with employees. “People need to know they are important” and they “have a future” with the company.

LindFast Solutions Group (LSG) has acquired Star Stainless Screw Company for an undisclosed sum. Together LSG and Star will distribute fasteners ranging from stainless to inch, to metric, and provide value added services.

Kochan agreed that domestic versus imported “comes down to cost”. But he noted that “people are talking about it (reshoring) more” and EFG is having “conversations with customers”. He predicts there will be more domestic production. “Price is not the total cost of ownership,” Kochan noted.

oe Kochan, COO of the Elgin Fastener Group, said: “Inbound raw material was stabilizing” before Russia invaded the Ukraine. Raw material “continues to be a challenge” for Elgin. The Ohio-based manufacturer is ordering and forecasting further out, Kochan said. There are also delays in outside processing for manufacturers, Kochan added.

AFC Industries acquires TFC Ltd

FC will continue to be led by Morgan Burgoyne and the current TFC management team – as the AFC European business unit. “We have been looking for some time to be able to better support customers in Europe, but it was crucial to find the right team who shared AFC values and bias for execution,” stated Kevin Godin, CEO at AFC. “We recognized in TFC a similar commitment to customer service, team culture, and execution, that have been central to AFC’s success.”

AFC distributes fasteners and assembly components to OEMs, assembly plants and other users. The company provides supply chain management, VMI, stock and release programs, right assembly, kitting, and private labeling, to a range of industries.

www.nfda-fastener.org

Philippart said remote employees have opened a greater talent pool. She cited a recent search drew 12 applicants to work in the office, but “a thousand-plus to work remotely”.

Roberto said the import/domestic ratio “comes back to cost”. He asked and answered reshoring questions: “Can we? Yes. Should we? Yes.”

Industry panelists at the National Fastener Distributors Association 2022 spring meeting reported supply chain problems are easing, but are not back to normal.

Roberto started in the fastener industry with a summer job 31 years ago. He became a branch manager at age 25. All along he has been “building relationships” with Star Stainless by “sitting down and having a conversation”. When you get to know them you “recognize where their strengths are”. Also be aware that “people evolve”,

NEWS - NORTH AMERICA 28 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

Recessionsummarized.ahead? “I’m usually the optimist,” Roberto said. But he finds fear of a recession “is driving the narrative”. Kochan pointed out that even if a recession develops that “we serve different markets” and some markets will have a soft landing. “There is still business during a recession,” Roberto pointed out.

As with other recent LindFast acquisitions “little change is expected in the near term from a customer perspective”, explains Niketas. For the foreseeable future, Star will continue to operate out of its existing facilities, will remain on the same ERP system, as well as extend the same policies currently in place.

Roberto added. “Give tools to people who are motivated.” Knowing an employee’s strength helps you avoid attempting to put “a square peg into a round hole”, Roberto advised.

Roberto suggested to improve efficiency “go to the person who is doing that job” for suggestions. Philippart emphasized that managers “need to be leaders. I have to be the leader” and “set the example”.Referring to the pandemic of 2020, Philippart recalls “there was no playbook” and AFC had to “look at alternatives”.

AFC Industries has acquired UK-based TFC Ltd – a supplier of industrial fastening products and services via a network of UK and European locations – terms of the deal were not disclosed.

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www.fastinfo.ruMagazine

NEWS - RUSSIA + CIS 30 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

The Russian authorities continue to look for ways to support the metallurgical industry, which is losing sales markets and margins due to sanctions. Among the traditional measures it is discussing is the purchase of metal into the state reserve, which can then be used for interventions in the domestic market and in the Donbass. According to the metallurgists themselves, it is important to understand what product range will be bought out and at what price. A likely contender for this is sheet metal, the demand for which has declined significantly. Analysts believe the most realistic support option is tax adjustment.

With this in mind, the Russian government is preparing to allocate 20.7 billion rubles to support demand in the car market (according to the forecast, this will stimulate almost 10% of the production of new cars). The Ministry of Industry and Trade supported the deputy’s proposal to exempt Russians from paying transport tax for two or three years if a citizen buys a domestic car.

In the first half of the year, car assembly volumes decreased by 61.8% compared to the result of January to June 2021 (736,000 cars). In June, 13,420 cars left the assembly lines in Russia, according to a report from Rosstat. This is 9.2 times less than in the same month of 2021, when 123,000 cars were assembled in the country. In general, according to half year results, the difficulties faced by the domestic automotive industry meant that Russian automakers were able to produce 281,000 cars.

he events of 24th February this year shocked many of us. I confess that I wanted to close the issue of our magazine in order to reorient myself to other activities. However, after hearing the opinions of readers and partners of the edition, I decided to continue its release.

The fastener business is global. The largest Russian manufacturers of fasteners recognise this. New design and engineering solutions usually require special fasteners. The implementation of such solutions can be carried out quickly and reliably with fasteners that are already produced in different countries. Russia has still has not mastered the production of fasteners used in large quantities in industry and construction, such as anchors and rivets. The production of such products could actually be mastered in Russia, in my opinion, but the creation of industries is constrained by subjective factors. I see the seeds of development of the future Russian fastener industry in small companies that are now mastering the production of both common types of fasteners and specialised products.

Production of Russian passenger cars decreases

The Russian market

by Alexander Ostashov, editor, Fastener, Adhesives, Tools and...

The actions of the Russian troops in Ukraine has also hit the Russian automotive industry, with some factories stopping assembly; others deciding to sell their business; and some forced to build new supply chains – adapting to changing conditions and new partners.

I confess that I do not see the development of the Russian fastening industry without meetings of specialists and managers at leading specialised exhibitions such as Fastener Fair Global and wire® Düsseldorf. However, when the active creation of new Russian fastener production will begin, remains open.

Today, every sane Russian, in my opinion, is looking for what can be done to avoid bloodshed on Ukrainian soil and to follow the path of a radical change in the situation in the country.

Measures to support the metallurgical industry

The Russian metallurgists are critically dependent on key foreign equipment and, due to Western sanctions, will be forced to look for workarounds to purchase it or switch to lower quality options. At the same time, the process of import substitution may take at least ten years –from the draft of the industry development strategy until 2030, prepared by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. So far, metallurgical companies have been relatively successful in finding replacements for raw materials and components, but access to large equipment is limited, which threatens development projects.

Products With a high demand of flexibility, reliability and quality, the mid-sized and in fourth generation family-owned and managed company PÜHL, based in Plettenberg (GER), manufactures standard, ISO-, DIN- and special stamping parts for mechanical connections. Service State-of-the-art manufacturing technology with 20 stamping machines and pressing forces up to 1,000 tons and a substantial warehouse of raw materials and finished products allow a fast production and delivery to competitive conditions. Reliability Wholesalers and end users in the sectors of wind energy, steel construction, traffic engineering, railway engineering, agricultural machines and the automotive supplier industry, value the quality and the competitive conditions of the products. www.puehl.deYour reliable partner in challenging times STANDARD PARTS SPECIAL PARTS PARTS ACCORDING DRAWING

Vertex Precision, a specialist in automotive, electronics, and mechanical fastener manufacturing, has released and patented the V-Tex Thread for Wood, which is suitable for the household and DIY markets. onsidering the growing demand for household and DIY fasteners, due to the global pandemic, as well as the high interest of European and American market users in woodscrews with more functions and performance, Vertex Precision has expanded its service range to meet diverse customer demands.

8 San Shing Fastech 71.07 40.09 13.83

Source: Fastener World

NEWS - ASIA 32 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

21 Sheh Kai Precision 14.42 35.78 10.33

Pro Power has also recently announced its further deployment in the OEM production of drywall piercing screws with a goal to offer customers an alternative approach to getting access to products at cheaper prices, with faster delivery, and higher quality.

11 Jinn Her Enterprise 36.33 23.78 N/A

20 Thread Industrial 15.33 45.17 N/A

Top Taiwanese fastener companies in 2021

Pro Power is also planning three new plants covering 6,000m 2 , which are under construction and expected to be officially put into operation this year. The new plants will enable Pro Power to broaden the supply range of its construction and DIY fasteners, as well as meet customer demand and reinforce its market share in the US.

Source: Fastener World

Due to its customers valuing price, and a very strict product quality, Pro Power has introduced sophisticated automated equipment from Italian company SACMA and Korean business Hyodong to continue to guarantee the quality of its products.

12 Tong Hwei Enterprise 35.41 29.23 N/A

9 Lu Chu Shin Yee 43.74 45.17 9.05

The company’s main products include various woodscrews with sizes below 10mm and lengths less than 150mm. Its current monthly capacity is up to 4,000 tonnes.

17 Spec Products 21.23 40.04 4.85

With this in mind Pro Power has also integrated various management softwares into its manufacturing lines, which helps achieve the most suitable control based on different customers’ demands and tolerances and fulfil the management strategy of reduced cost and less waste.

1 Ta Chen International 968.86 63.56 9.98

2 Tong Ming Enterprise 132.36 44.32 10.9

V-Tex woodscrews offer three kinds of minor diameters, which (sorted by value from large to small) are cutting ribs, shank, and chip recesses. After its sharp point drills into the material, the cutting ribs will twist off fibres to create a larger hole diameter and the special cutting teeth on threads will cut off wood fibres. Then, the chip recesses offer extra space for dust to reduce drilling resistance, facilitating the assembly/engagement/fastening of wood materials and revealing excellent functionality.

Fastener World Magazine researched the revenues and growth of major Taiwanese fastener companies and published the following table of its results:

Through detailed testing, research, and evaluation by the company’s R&D team, Vertex Precision was able to successfully developed the V-Tex, which the company reports features an optimised appearance and better performance than other counterparts in the market.

3 Chun Yu Works 118.1 46.62 6.31

13 Jau Yeou industry 33.38 20.51 N/A

Pro equipmentinvestsPowerin

7 Boltun 71.72 48.34 4.87

4 Tycoons 107 34.93 3.98

18 Intai Technology 19.73 0.61 11.56

22 NAFCO 14.26 -16.31 -6.8

leading construction and DIY fasteners supplier, Pro Power Co Ltd is well known in the industry for its “cheap prices, quick delivery, and extremely high-quality”, as well as its strength in manufacturing many customers’ products to necessary standards and certifications.

V-Tex Thread for Wood

Ranking Company (0.1RevenuebillionNT$) Revenuegrowth(%) Netmarginprofit(%)

16 Sumeeko 22.85 14.77 6.26

5 QST International 101.93 15.51 3.69

6 Tycoons Worldwide Group (Thailand) 75.2 30.83 4.16

19 King Point (PATTA) 18.75 24.75 4.53

10 OFCO 37.61 105.97 3.46

15 Rodex Fasteners 24.28 14.15 10.26

14 Sheh Fung Screws 28.59 26.84 9.65

China rolls out measures to spur automotive consumption

More parking facilities will also be built in cities and more battery charging facilities will be added in parking lots, gas stations and expressway service areas, among other spots, to meet NEVs’ charging demand, the vice minister noted.

Efforts will also be made to bolster the large-scale development of the used car market. For used non-commercial light-duty vehicles, restrictions on the cross-regional transfer of those vehicles that meet the national stage V emission standard were lifted nationwide as of 1 st August. Such measures aim to promote efficient automobile circulation in the market and facilitate the cross-regional operation of related enterprises.

China has unveiled a slew of measures to invigorate automobile circulation and boost auto consumption, as multiple factors have weighed heavily on the industry, reports Chinafastener.com.

In the application environment of cement boards, using general screws may lead to poor engagement or unpleasing protruded cement boards owing to poor dust removal. Sheh Fung’s patented cement board screws with pineapple knurls, made of 1022 carbon steel and coated with highly corrosion resistant eCoating or Kaitex®, can assemble cement boards with wood or steel structures vertically and special pineapple knurls can cut cement boards into powder to achieve a complete countersunk fastening result.

Roger Su, R&D and manufacturing assistant manager at Sheh Fung, comments: “This Taiwan patented product is also painted with ACQ resistant Kaitex® coating and has been ICC certified, which offers customers stability and durability.”

Fung releases new patented screws

heh Fung Screws Co Ltd points out that often for outdoor balconies or floors around swimming pools, different colours of waterproof, high temperature and compression resistant composite decks – made of recycled wood dust and plastics – are used. However, the surface of such decks is prone to mushroom defect when they are fastened together with the base layer of ACQ lumbers.

he Chinese Ministry of Commerce and 16 other government departments have detailed 12 specific measures, in six aspects, to inject impetus into the automotive sector, Vice Minister of Commerce Sheng Qiuping announced.

The Sheh Fung R&D team therefore decided to conduct in-depth research on the performance of products and adopted a six lobes design on its new composite deck screw in order to achieve better cam out avoidance. Special oval threads have also been added to help cut the composite deck boards during fastening and the twin cut design can quickly cut off and remove wood dust, similar to pre-drilled hole that can countersink screws into the composite deck boards. In addition, in order to maximise the efficacy of the composite deck screws, they are available in different materials based on where they’ll be applied.

Sheh Fung, based in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, has introduced two new patented screws –a composite deck screw with twin cut and a cement board screw with pineapple knurl.

Source: Fastener World

“After cement boards are painted, the cement board screws become invisible,” points out Roger Su. “This product has been patented in Taiwan and the USA.”

Steps have been initiated to build a unified national market for automobiles that is rule-based and features interconnectivity, with efforts to remove local protectionism in the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) market and promote NEV sales in rural areas.

vehicles. The move to unleash the auto industry’s potential is part of China’s policies aimed at maintaining economic stability, Sheng said, noting that auto sales play a vital role in boosting consumption and stabilising economic growth.

NEWS - ASIA 34 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

Measures will also be taken to boost the green and low carbon transition of the auto industry, with efforts to stimulate NEVs consumption and improve the recycling system for scrapped

ShehT

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NEWS - BRAZIL

First Metal Conformation Congress

4 th Stamping Technology Seminar – coordinated by Dr Gilmar Batalha, University of São Paulo (USP), SP/SP.

1 st Meeting of Fasteners Specialists (Fastening Systems) – coordinated by Dr Roberto Garcia (FSA).

2 nd Welding Technologies Seminar – coordinated by MSc José Agustin Castillo Lara, Santo André Foundation (FSA), AS/SP.

ocusing on the cold and hot forging metal sectors, the first edition of the Metal Conformation Congress was held from 14th – 15th June 2022, at the Santo André Foundation University Center, located in Santo André, a city in the metropolitan region of São Paulo. Despite it being a debut show, and with cold weather, more than 200 people, including students and academics members, as well as professionals from national and multinational industries, attended the Congress.

FastenerF exports and imports 2022

More than 200 people attended the premiere edition of the Metal Conformation Congress, known in Brazil as Congresso de Conformação Metálica – CCM.

9 th Forging Technology Seminar – coordinated by Dr Mauro Moraes de Souza, Faculty of Industrial Engineering (FEI), SBC/SP.

However, the first half of 2022 has shown an import value of US$513 million, with a little more than 101,556 tonnes imported, both up compared to 2021, which stood at US$457.18 million and 98,650 tonnes at the same point.

Sérgio Milatias, Revista do www.revistadoparafuso.com.brParafuso,

Prosdac was founded in 1995 and is one of the most traditional brands within the Brazilian sector, including for automotive and auto parts customers. “Located inside the FazGran Industrial Condominium, Prosdac has its own excellent facilities, including a 2,600m 2 plant,” explains Ricardo Kiqumoto, CEO of the new Primat Group subsidiary. “Primat has also purchased a neighbouring property – expanding the total area beyond 5,000m². Plus, the company has already added a new machine, produced by Sidasa, which is about to go into operation and should raise the actual operating capacity to more than 2,400 tonnes per month by the end of 2022.”

The event was divided into five modules, including:

For the first half of 2022, data from the Brazilian Economic Ministry has pointed to a record amount of fastener imports, with figures predicted to go above US$1 billion by the end of the year – for the first time since 2013.

H1 2022 US$89.05 million US$513 million 19,929.54 tonnes 101,556.3 tonnes

editor,

Period Fastener exports Fastener imports

To further expand the business, Primat Group decided to cross around 9,700km, from Italy to Brazil, and acquire Prosdac Revestimentos Técnicos Ltda, based in Jundiaí, 86km from the state capital, São Paulo.

When it comes to exports, Brazil’s best year for fastener exports was in 2019, when it achieved US$194 million and exported 29,600 tonnes. In 2021

H1 2021 US$66.31 million US$457.18 million 35,744.99 tonnes 98,650.41 tonnes

2 nd Seminar on Conformation and Application of High Performance Steels – coordinated by Dr Jesualdo Luiz Rossi, Institute for Energy and Nuclear Research (IPEN), SP/SP.

Brazilian exports totalled only US$153 million in value, but did achieve a record volume of 58,600 tonnes. For the first half of 2022 the revenue for fastener exports reached US$89.05 million, against US$66.31 million for H1 2021, and 19,929 tonnes – compared to 35,744 tonnes in 2021.

rimat SpA, based in Lecce, Italy, was founded in 1972 – becoming a supplier to the automotive sector in 1982. After taking control of IEB Srl in 2015, and Zincatura Reggiana Srl in 2017, it was renamed as Primat Group and made responsible for overall coordination.

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n 2021 the expectation was, once again, for the import value of fasteners to beat the 2013 mark (US$1.048 billion and 191,000 tonnes of fasteners) but it eventually fell short at US$939.9 million – which was still the second best ever result and did include unpublished volume results of 205,000 tonnes.

Primat Group acquires Prosdac

The electroplating company Primat has agreed to acquire Prosdac, a surface treatment service company, giving Primat a strong position within the Brazilian surface treatment services market.

The SQ Ceramic lamellar coating application technology is a modern way of protecting against corrosion, which is different to zinc plating. The coating consists of a mix of zinc and aluminium flakes and binding resins. “The lamellar coating is characterised by exceptionally effective protection against corrosion despite a relatively thin layer. This ensures up to ten times higher protection against corrosion in relation to zinc plating and double the protection in relation to hot dip galvanising,” points out Maciej. “The lamellar coating maintains resistance to red corrosion even up to 1,000 hours in the salted atmosphere chamber –while hot dip galvanising only offers 500 hours. The coating has also high resistance to chemicals and UV radiation, but does not contain heavy metals, such as hexavalent chromium (VI).”

stablished in 1990, and originally a producer of plastic components, Klimas has spent over 30 years implementing investment programmes across the entire company. Today, the company has four production plants, located in Kuźnica Kiedrzyńska and Wanaty, near Częstochowa – representing a production area of over 80,000m². “We are proud to have one of the most modern production plants for fastening technology in Europe,” states Maciej Strychalski, marketing manager at Klimas Wkręt-met. “As a relatively young company, when compared with our western competitors, we believe our biggest USP is our manufacturing capabilities right here in Europe.”

Producing more than 30 million screws a day, Klimas Wkręt-met has established itself as a global partner for high-quality fasteners and fixings. To ensure it builds on its global identity, the company is committed to ongoing investments in its production, new offices, as well as its people – even during the current market challenges.

Klimas – a global fixing provider

“Companies everywhere are putting a lot of effort into finding an ‘eco’ solution to the changing global environment,” explains Maciej. “As a manufacturer we have an opportunity to help build a better future for the world and produce products dedicated to building awareness and increasing knowledge about the environment, which includes our SQ Ceramic coating line.”

These partnerships lead to closer working relationships with customers enabling Klimas to grow and expand, with the company now exporting its product range into different markets in more than 60 countries worldwide. It is also therefore key that Klimas keeps up to date with all global market trends – including a big focus at the moment on ‘eco fasteners’.

The ability to offer this guidance to customers is all part of Klimas’ aim to offer added value to its customers. “The role of a sales rep is also changing and they are not just collecting orders anymore. Sales reps are becoming more of a customer advisor who need to be able to support their customers with not only product related queries but sometimes advice on the market, stock and other areas,” comments Maciej. “Klimas is therefore focusing on this advisor role and giving our employees the tools to be able to become more of a partner for customers.”

Klimas can supply framework fasteners, woodscrews, roofing screws, as well as fastenings for thermal and hydro insulation of flat

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Klimas’ production facilities include over 100 injection moulding machines, 200 presses and rolling mills, high-quality steel material from European mills – such as low carbon, stainless A2, acid resistant A4, plus steel for heat treatment – as well as six advanced hardening furnaces, two modern furnaces for hardening screws over 200mm with highquality parameters and an automated hardening line.

“What is important for us is that all processes – from manufacturing to coating – are all done in-house, ensuring we can control the quality of every single step. This of course is an added benefit to our customers as quality is absolutely essential in our industry. Our production capabilities also enable us to quickly prepare for any customer needs or requirements – which again, is essential given that these needs are constantly changing.”

Maciej continues: “Twenty years ago customers just wanted to buy a product. Now there are technical challenges connected with each product – mechanical anchors, woodscrews, etc. Customers need information and documentation, as well as certificates to give them the knowledge and guarantee that the products they’re using are quality products suitable for the required application. Our role as a manufacturer has developed and adapted to meet the needs of customers, so we can prepare any necessary documentation, as well as offer guidance where needed.”

This commitment has been aided by the company also opening up new sales offices in India, the Czech Republic, and most recently in France in 2021. Located in the west of the country, the French branch of Klimas, in Poitiers, has sales and technical support agents providing the French market with solutions such as fastening systems for thermal insulation of walls and fastening systems for lightweight housing.

made it the first Polish company to hold such an approval. Today it holds 21 European approvals, numerous certificates and distinctions that prove the highest quality of its products. “Quality right now is absolutely fundamental,” comments Maciej. “Customers everywhere need the assurance that the solutions they’re buying are safe. That’s why ETA certifications are crucial. They not only show the products are quality, but they prove products are safe and right for the job.”

In 2005 the company was granted its first European Technical Assessment for construction products, which Klimas mentions

“The French market has shown us that our strategy is working and we can reach new markets and be successful,” explains Maciej. “We are a beginner in the French market, but that means we still have space to grow and there’s an abundance of potential for us. At this moment in time, to be able to open offices across Europe and to continue to manufacture all our products in Europe – we have such an advantage. Our customers can trust that they’re getting a high-quality product without long lead times that are becoming so typical of the market right now.”

Another issue impacting the global industry at the moment is the energy crisis. “The energy situation across the globe is another impact on the market that couldn’t necessarily have been predicted,” mentions Maciej. “As a Polish manufacturer, we need to be prepared by using energy from domestic Polish companies, as well as looking for other sources of energy this winter. As a company we always look positively into the future, but supply chain disruptions, Covid-19, the Ukraine War, as well as energy problems, are all impacting the market. In Poland we’re also currently having massive issues connected with inflation, so it’s so important that we stay on top of all market trends. This means being prepared to sell into every single area of the market.”

roofs, all with this coating. Lamellar coating application technology properties can also be used in other demanding industries.

One way of ensuring Klimas can work across many areas is its wide product portfolio from chemical anchors, frame fixings, roof screws, fasteners for thermoinsulation systems, to products for flat roofs. “If one market, and therefore one product, is stagnant, we have the experience and knowledge to be able to counteract this and sell our wide range of products into the next growing market,” proudly states Maciej. “Different markets have different requirements, such as approvals and certifications, and it is our responsibility to be able to service these needs, as well as grow our product range, accordingly.”

www.klimas.com WWW.FASTENERANDFIXING.COM 39

These certifications and approvals also enable Klimas to build its brand across Europe. “We don’t want to be just a Polish brand, we want to increase our global reach and serve everyone. It doesn’t matter where a customer is – in Europe, Asia, etc – we are ready to serve them.”

For a leading manufacturer of safety washers, spring washers, and bended parts, like Growermetal, every surface treatment or coating plays an essential role in many different fields –including automotive, railway, aerospace, construction, electromechanics, power generation, and many others, each of which have different needs or application conditions.

After winning this award, and being included among the homologated platers for the Zinklad 250M surface treatment, in 2016 the process received another acknowledgement and Growermetal was approved for the mechanical zinc plating process according to the automotive standard FCA PS.50042 –as a unique plater in the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) markets. This allows Growermetal to add a superior quality to its range of washers, and also to meet the needs of third parties –making the treatment available for its products.

hen it comes to safety washers, details count, which is why Italian washer manufacturer Growermetal SpA ensures it studies, designs and tests the most suitable solutions for every application – taking into account every aspect of production. A key point in this process is choosing the right surface treatment, which can determine the effective performance of the safety washer in the most challenging conditions. At the same time, the most suitable coating is essential in creating long-lasting products, protecting them from corrosion and boosting fastener quality.

The mechanical zinc plating is a high-quality and high performance anticorrosive coating, free from hydrogen embrittlement risks. Zinc powder is applied on the surface of the

From mechanical zinc plating to zinc flake coatings, Growermetal can offer customised solutions suitable for the needs of different industries – supported by in-house facilities that create new opportunities of personalisation for customers worldwide.

So what is the added value of Growermetal’s mechanical zinc coatings? The answer is multifaceted and ranges from the uniformity and absence of flaws at the structural and physical level, to the quality of the actual performance and its durability. Benefits include: Absence of hydrogen embrittlement: The process eliminates the risks of breaking and is extremely effective in preventing hydrogen embrittlement.

Coating thickness uniformity: Mechanical zinc plating is applied with coverage of all parts and surfaces of the washers, obtaining a uniform coating without any build-up thickness even on protruding points.

In addition to outsourced processes such as galvanic zinc plating, zinc-nickel plating, nickel plating, copper plating and phosphating, Growermetal provides two extra in-house coatings – mechanical zinc plating and zinc flake coating, with two production lines specifically designed to process washers and flat parts.

...every surface treatment or coating plays an essential role in many different fields… each of which has different needs orconditions.”application

“Since 2009 Growermetal has been carrying out the mechanical zinc plating internally, inside its modern plant and using exclusively original MacDermid® chemicals, which have been studied on purpose to get an excellent coating,” mentions Paolo. “This process earned Growermetal the ‘Technology and Innovation’ award at the Surface Expo in 2010 – the Italian trade fair dedicated to surface finishing and treatments.”

“Technical know-how, quality control, and a deep knowledge of materials, have to be aligned to provide the best solutions and punctual, flexible and efficient answers to customers’ requests,” states Paolo Cattaneo, CEO of Growermetal. “Since Growermetal was established in 1950 we have been committed to creating a completely in-house manufacturing process, focusing our energies and resources in creating an internal system able to offer a full spectrum service to local and international partners.”

Full Growermetalservicecoatingfrom

All the benefits of mechanical zinc plating

Elimination of sticking pieces: Thanks to the nature of the mechanical zinc plating, during the process there is no risk of sticking parts.

Mechanical zinc plating

pieces through a process made in the presence of glass spheres and in an appropriate chemical environment, without the utilisation of electric power or further heat induction.

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40 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

Excellent corrosion resistance: The mechanical zinc plating offers an outstanding corrosion protection with an excellent coating adhesion – providing a superior resistance in comparison with other surface coatings.

Following the path of innovation, expertise, and efficiency, we wish to build a more and more functional system, giving attention to every detail.”

Zinc flake coatings

In 2016 Growermetal installed a new and fully automatic coating line, which boosted the flexibility of the company in supplying products with zinc flake coatings. The coating line for zinc flake surface treatments has been designed for carrying out the surface coating on washers, with many benefits both from the aesthetic point of view and the performance.

The main benefits of a zinc flake system

No de-tempering: The process is carried out at room temperature, therefore mechanical zinc plating does not de-temper heat treated parts, avoiding modifications of the hardness during the process.

Today the company uses exclusively original DÖRKEN products, which ensure high-quality and high performance coatings, by providing a choice of different solutions of basecoat (e.g Delta-Protekt® and DELTA®-TONE range) and top coat (e.g Delta-Protekt® VH range).

“Among the many results reached by the partnership between Growermetal and DÖRKEN , in 2020 the German Railway (Deutsche Bahn) approved the Delta-Protekt® KL100 coating on Growermetal’s double coiled spring washers, produced according to UIC 864-3,” points out Paolo. “Widely used for railway applications, these washers are usually exposed to challenging weather conditions and extreme vibrations. The zinc flake coating system of Delta-Protekt® KL100 offers a superior corrosion resistance, without adhesion issues during stress or reduction in anti-loosening performance.”

This leads to a coating characterised by:

Possibility to modify the friction coefficient – according to the requirements.

A network of services and experienced professionals

In addition, this investment has enabled Growermetal to reach the best results and make its services more competitive, merging a versatile range of high-quality coatings with the ability to accomplish the requests of customers in shorter times, thanks to the in-house processes.

“Thanks to the in-house structure, customers are involved in the different stages of the manufacturing, working side by side with the company’s technicians and engineers. The latter are essential in selecting the best raw materials and suggesting the most recommended and functional treatments for every application,” concludes Paolo. “In order to maintain a truly competitive service, cooperation and dialogue are essential values at every step in the manufacturing. Following the path of innovation, expertise, and efficiency, we wish to build a more functional system, giving attention to every detail.”

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High cathodic protection level – thanks to zinc flake coating acting like a barrier.

Electrical conductivity: The mechanical zinc plating guarantees a very good electrical conductivity, making the coating perfectly suitable for electromechanical applications.

The application of a zinc flake coating is carried out through immersion, centrifugation followed by polymerisation. The excellent corrosion resistance is achieved by the mechanisms of cathodic protection; the wall-effect generated by the flakes of zinc and aluminium; and the reaction of the binders with the base metal.

www.growermetal.com

The positive results reached by Growermetal are boosted by its in-house surface treatments, with a synergy between the different departments involved in the manufacturing process. Among them, the heat treatment process allows the company to change and transform the microstructure of raw materials, improving their characteristics and ensuring the maximum control of the parts. This aspect helps Growermetal to reach higher safety performance against loosening of the washers produced and provide a customised process to all its partners.

Extremely thin and uniform surface layer thickness (8µm – 12µm) with the maximum protective effect.

Cr6 free – RoHs/ELV and Reach compliant – meeting the highest quality standards.

Environmentally friendly process: Thanks to its low energy consumption process, and to Growermetal’s modern water depuration and recycling system, mechanical zinc plating guarantees a low environmental impact – in compliance with the ISO 14001 standard specifications.

INSIGHT

Long-term corrosion resistance – with delayed formation of rust.

High resistance to chemical products, environmental influences and mechanical impacts – protecting the component. No presence of hydrogen embrittlement – during the coating process no hydrogen is generated, so no stress corrosion cracking occurs.

Keeping the electric conductivity – and full respect of the mechanical features of the base material.

www.gberardi.com

The Berardi Group is a living heritage, an evolving process which we develop day by day, to shape a better future. Our know-how, innovative spirit, and attention for human relationships combine to create a business model that meets modern needs, without forgetting where it all began.

Our wide assortment and logistics services are our best products!

theBuildingfuture together

“Over 95% of our production of fastener products go into the steel construction, construction, automotive, shipbuilding, railway, electrical and wood industries as

“The European Commission’s decision in early 2022 to introduce protective tariffs for the import of Chinese fasteners into the EU presented us with a huge opportunity,” states DIV Group. “Our largest fastener production factory is located in the town of Knin, close to the port of Split in Croatia, and due to the new duties we are looking to put a large part of our annual production capacity into the European market – as we are a lot more competitive now when it comes to price.”

In total the Knin factory has 23 production lines, 14 thread rolling lines, 3 heat treatment lines, 2 galvanising lines, as well as a semi-automatic packaging line. “This means we can produce a wide range of fasteners in dimensions from M6 to M27 –meeting the needs of customers throughout Europe and the rest of the world.”

Another important factor in DIV Group’s ability to compete within the market is its fast delivery times, which it is able to provide thanks to its significant warehouse storage, with the most popular dimensions of fastener products, from standard bolts to screws –all according to DIN and ISO – available on a ‘Just in Time’ service. DIV Group can also provide products according to individual customer requirements.

well as mechanical engineering in general,” points out DIV Group. “Through the financial restructuring we have been making, we are now in a stronger and more competitive place to compete within Chinese products within the European market. As a group we are continuously growing and through our dedication and investments we have developed into one of the most efficient and competitive companies in Europe – offering a wide range of products supported by the experience and confidence needed to participate in highly demanding and evolving industries.”

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DIV looks to take advantage of EU AD duties

www.divgroup.eu

The Knin fastener factory covers over 30,000m 2 and focuses on the complete production of standard fasteners – from preparation to the final product. The total Knin facility covers 120,000m 2 . “To remain competitive within the EU market it is essential that we have full control of the entire production and procurement processes. This starts with the raw materials procurement; to preparation for production; and PPAP monitoring of the production process. By doing this we cannot only guarantee that the products meet the highest quality standards, and provide our customers with maximum safety in use, but we can also ensure that every process is as optimised as it can be,” explains DIV Group.

IV Group is an affiliation of up to 55 companies – with 95 years of tradition and over 3,000 employees – that together specialise in the processing, production, and trade, of fastening products, machined parts, and other metal products, for shipbuilding, capital railway infrastructure projects and bridge construction. As a European leader in the metalworking industry, DIV Group also has a commercial presence in more than 40 countries around the world.

DIV Group is currently carrying out a financial restructuring in order to become stronger, more competitive, and take advantage of the recent anti-dumping duties introduced by the European Commission on certain fasteners from China.

MORE THAN A MANUFACTURER www.divgroup.eu

Freight forwarders changing position in supply chain

With staff being furloughed at the end of March, the closing of the office, and

a move to remote working, a few nervous weeks followed. During April, bookings remained low, but in May there were some signs of recovery, which continued from there onwards. “Both BREXIT and Covid-19 have shown that we have the ability to adapt and change to external pressures. At Espace we pride ourselves on our ability to work with customers and provide solutions to the challenges of the market.”

Formed in 2000, Espace has a wealth of knowledge and collectively hundreds of years’ worth of freight experience. However, the younger members of the team had very little understanding of international trade –and little need for it as Great Britain had been members of the European Customs Union since the 1970s. “The leaders of Espace very much thought that we had to take control over the whole process,” explains Geoff. “To start from the beginning and to learn everything we needed to about international trade for the sake of our customers, staff and ultimately our business. This included things such as understanding INCO terms, which seems so basic now but for a lot of our customers, who had only ever bought and sold into Europe, their true meaning was irrelevant.”

Whereas a traditional haulier can move a load from ‘A to B’, a freight forwarder can take care of the transport and facilitate the often hidden steps required within that movement. “For anyone new to exporting or looking to grow trade lanes, I urge them to look at the freight forwarding industry as their outsourced shipping department,” says Geoff. “A good forwarder will be able to move your freight around the world in a way you would struggle to do as efficiently yourselves without hiring expertise. A great forwarder will also look to build relationships with you; find ways to save you money; and add efficiencies and innovation to your supply chain. It really is a win-winGeoffrelationship.”continues:“Rather than having one or ten trade lanes, as an exporter may have, we see hundreds a week, each slightly different from the other and are often asked to find creative solutions to make them work.”

www.espaceglobalfreight.com/fastenersandfixings

Over the past two years, Espace has also seen its role as a freight forwarder in the market change significantly. “Before BREXIT, ‘price was king’. It was as easy to move a load from Manchester to Marseille as it was one from Coventry to Cambridge. Post BREXIT, the freight forwarder has become a valuable enabler to trade and a source of practical and trustworthy advice,” states Geoff.

INSIGHT

Whilst preparing for BREXIT another epoch defining moment arrived with the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. “Naively, we thought Covid-19 would affect our Asian interests and nothing more. With the arrival of Covid-19 in Italy we realised pretty quickly we were in for a rough ride,” recalls Geoff.

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Over the past three years the freight and logistics industries have experienced a plethora of challenges – such as being at the frontline of the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic and, more locally in Europe, the trials of BREXIT. However, Geoff Yates, head of commercial development at Espace Europe, underlines it’s not all been bad news.

asting his mind back to 2016 and the morning after the BREXIT vote, Geoff admits he was surprised with the outcome. “I remember thinking ‘what have they done?’ and ‘where do we go from here’”. Whilst for many companies in the freight industry there was still a period of ‘business as usual’. For Espace it was a case of going back to the drawing board to redesign a business that would survive the post transition period. “Right from those early days, we took the stance that our customers’ issues were our issues. If our customers weren’t ready for BREXIT, how could we be?”

The freight forwarding industry has also seen a seismic shift towards technology in recent years and the adoption has allowed SME forwarders to challenge blue chip ones for market share. “Espace has a very positive outlook for the future, with this year our 22 nd year of trading,” concludes Geoff. “Technology now is very much at the forefront of everything we do and a key part of our development strategy going forwards. However, crucially, being an employee owned business allows us to employ new co-owners who share our company vision and values. Our ‘ownership’ mindset means our mutual interactions are kept at the highest level ensuring a great customer experience. We see ourselves as a customer care company specialising in freight forwarding.”

www.litnaglis.com

eadquartered in Plungė, Lithuania, JSC Litnaglis was originally established for the manufacture of common nails for use in wooden pallets. Following the company joining the European Pallet Association (EPAL) in 2001 – as well as being one of the first certified EPAL nail manufacturers in the Baltic states – the company began to enjoy considerable commercial growth. This led to Litnaglis expanding into new premises in 2004 and growing the business from an initial productivity of 90 tonnes of product per month into what is now up to 4,000 tonnes of product per month.

continue to develop its technology, Litnaglis has established a training centre for new, inexperienced employees who want to work in the company. “New trainees are given a particular trainee programme followed by a three month probationary period. After completing the training, the employee becomes a qualified specialist. This has effectively allowed us to develop a highly specialist workforce that truly values working at a place such as Litnaglis –delivering benefits both in terms of workforce motivation and overall staff turnover.”

Litnaglis has made significant investments in the development of a new nail factory, which is currently under construction and will include advanced automation and data computing systems to drive efficiencies in the business even higher.

Alongside its production capabilities, Litnaglis is also focused on the level of customer service it can provide each and every customer. “As a company we want to ensure that the customer journey meets the very same benchmarks set by our product quality. Given the present concern of the construction industry with relation to delivery time and speed, it goes without saying that this is a core area of focus for us in meeting the present day needs of the market.”

Litnaglis continues: “As a manufacturer within Europe we are in a strong position to meet the needs of the market, especially with the continued challenges associated to supply from the Far East. Our long-term goal is to become the most flexible and wide range nail producer in the world. We want to produce all type of collated nails so that customers can get everything at once. We have big plans for the future, which includes expanding our premises with the addition of several more nail manufacturing factories –which will partially use green energy sources. We are also looking to expand our product line with new products, with one of them being duplex nails in a plastic strip, which is becoming more popular in the market. We also plan to further expand our supply network worldwide and aim to make the woodpecker in the Litnaglis logo even more recognisable in the nail industry.”

Through its production capabilities Litnaglis is able to offer nearly all diameters, and types of nails, and displays a clear commitment to using only the highest quality raw materials for production. “By combining flexibility with high standards of quality we have become recognised for reliability and the ability to meet the ever changing requirements of the industry,” points out Litnaglis.

A good example of this commitment is how Litnaglis has handled the Covid-19 pandemic, with the company proactive from the very beginning. “When the pandemic began to spread around the world, our

“During this time, we also managed to cement our name in the industry as one of the largest nail manufacturers not only in the Baltic states, but also in Europe,” states Litnaglis. “We estimate that by 2023 our maximum production capacity should reach 4,500 tonnes per month – thanks to the new nail factory, which we expect to open in September.”Litnaglisprides itself on its continuous investment in modernising its equipment and introducing new application technologies in order to improve efficiencies and customer handling. Through the new nail factory the company aims to not only allow for an expansion of workload capacity, but also enable the company to better refine its operations.

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company was several steps ahead, predicting that raw material prices would rise and there would be massive shortages. Thus, our company took a very important strategic step by purchasing raw material for the year ahead, so we made sure that there would be no shortage during the most difficult period of the year,” highlights Litnaglis. “Of course, it was a very risky move due to the uncertainty of the future of the industry, but it paid off. At the same time, demand grew exponentially, many companies faced difficulties due to the lack of raw materials, however our company not only maintained but also increased productivity.”

Litnaglis investing in capacity and capabilities

solutions. “We are flexible and can offer any solution to our customers. Of course, it all depends on the quantity requested by the customer. Prospective customers should take into consideration that Litnaglis is both a nail manufacturer and a wholesaler at the same time, so we sell our products only in largeToquantities.”meetcustomers’ requests, and

A key part of its production is Litnaglis’ ability to work with customers on bespoke

Tel.: +49 6581 916 MADEAwww.bts-saarburg.deinfo@bts-saarburg.de888NAMEFORQUALITY&RELIABILITYINGERMANY CAPCONNECTORS,WOODNUTS YOUR PRODUCT Special custom made products DIN 315 DIN WINGWING316NUTS/SCREWS Cast Iron, Brass, A2, A4 WING NUTS/ WING AMERICANSCREWSPATTERN Steel, A2, A4 BEAM CLAMPS Approved for both tensile directions, full range for M6-M16 threaded rods and clamping widths from 18-45 mm, different finishes ACCESSORIESASSEMBLY Via per Carpiano, 18, 20077 Melegnano (MILANO) ITALY WWW.FIMINOX.COM

nown as Gecko Fasteners, the company reported solid demand in the first half of 2022 and was able to achieve on time delivery, within 3 weeks, for 99% of its standard part orders for both Q1 and Q2.

localpresence,Worldwideservice

INSIGHT

At the same time Gecko Fasteners will continue to focus on the quality of its products, in regard to both its custom-made parts – which is a large part of its production –as well as its standard products that are produced according to high standard certificates such as IATF 16949.

“Under the global circumstances and raw material shortage in the fastening industry, we have seized the opportunity to expand our production capability and to further develop our visibility in the market,” comments Johann Nitsch, GM Europe & USA at Gecko Fasteners. “As a qualified professional manufacturer, we have also looked to strengthen our global networking and supply chain efficiency – maintaining a strong global network and a competitive lead time for injection moulded nylonGeckoproducts.”Fasteners has been able to underline its reliability and strength in the current uncertain environment, with the company attributing its fast delivery of nylon products to its long-term commitment to process improvement. “A key factor in our service reliability is our own in-house tool shop, where we are able to produce custom parts within just 6 to 8 weeks,” emphasises Johann. “In addition, the production capacity at our factory in Shenzhen, China, has been increased massively through continuous automation. For instance, our plastic rivet production is fully automated –including 100% dimensional testing.”

www.gecko-fastener.com

“Through our highly reliable fastening solutions, with guaranteed quality products, we will stay on track with strong sales and meet our targets for the year,” highlights Johann. “Moreover, the current fast on time delivery achievement allows us to provide better fastening solutions to our partners and clients going forward.”

Gecko Fasteners has branches in Germany, Spain, Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines, as well as distribution partners in Korea and India, and is planning for further branches in France, Scandinavia, and the USA. “We are a very proactive manufacturer and continuously look to expand our product range and our partnerships in the market,” explains Johann. “We want to cooperate even closer with our current and new partners to become even fastener, more effective and more cost-efficient.”

Gecko International Co has continued its strong performance within the market, with the business expanding its production capability to further meet customers’ needs.

new look same winning story

www.colombofasteners.com your fasteners specialist

and place to sit down face-to-face and be together, but we’ve learned to be more efficient along the way and that doesn’t hurt.

The National Fastener Distributors Association (NFDA) is a non-profit trade association serving the North American fastener industry. Content Director Will Lowry spoke to Nick Ruetz of AIS – a wholly owned subsidary of MSC Industrial Supply, and NFDA president, about how the US market has handled the challenges of the last two years.

“This industry has been hit hard in terms of logistics. Particularly lead times and the costs associated with ocean freight. Lead times in our industry have gone from 60 – 90 days for a domestic made part to 180 days. Most of this is due to material and capacity

Fastener distribution in the USA

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The NFDA has always held its roots in networking and best practice sharing and continuing that task in a virtual setting was paramount. Our goal in the near and long-term is to now get back to our in-person events – while taking the best parts of what we’ve learned in working virtual and continuing to provide that value to our members. We held our first ‘in person’ event in June in Minneapolis and attendance was robust and the excitement to reconnect with our industry peers was evident.”

The last two years have seen a host of challenges for fastener companies within Europe. How have US fastener distributors been impacted?

From an industry perspective, fastener distributors, and particularly those who provided value added services in terms of Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) or engineering support, saw very little impact at the start of the pandemic in terms of service and supply. Our teams know what products are on our customers manufacturing floors and where its located better than our customers typically – so we had to show up and continue to provide that service.

Fasteners make up such a small amount of our customers’ total cost of goods sold that they are often expensed, and they rely on us to serve in all facets of their supply chain in terms of forecasting, procurement, quality, and delivery. What changed the most is how sales teams had to learn to develop new business and conduct business reviews with customers either not allowing non-essential outside visitors, or their staff were working remote. At the same time, we’ve become more productive as we’ve learned to hold meetings virtually. I think back to my days out selling and there were plenty of times I made a two hour drive for a 30 minute meeting and then back to the office. There will always be a time

One of the main challenges over the last two years has been logistical issues – both on land and sea – how have your members been impacted and as an association have you been able to help them manage the situation?

“Where to start. I don’t think it matters what industry or end market you’re in to have had what you knew as ‘normal’ rocked by the Covid-19 pandemic, followed by the aftershocks since related to supply chain and labour. From an association standpoint, the NFDA shifted to providing our members with virtual resources in terms of information and roundtables that focused on all aspects of fastener distribution. Whether it was supply chain, IT, human resources, or executive leadership, NFDA provides perspective and a sense of togetherness.

availability. For parts made overseas, particularly in south-east Asia, lead times have skyrocketed to around a year – where historically it was around 90 days for manufacturing and 30 days in transit. From the time a purchase order was placed till the goods were at our docks used to be around 120 days. Now overseas lead times for manufacturing is around 8 – 9 months and the ocean and inland freight can take anywhere from 60 – 90 days. I think at its worse we saw some freight times of 120 days. This has pushed up inventories due to the uncertainty of receipt timing.”

54 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE

Distributors that are able to provide insight to their customers… and those who invest in automation and efficiencies have a bright future and a strong role to play…”

There have been a variety of factors also impacting the market, such as the price of raw materials and labour, as well as inflation. How have your members been impacted? How do you see these factors developing in the future?

INSIGHT

What are the services you provide members? What are the advantages of these services?

Both these events are paired with educational opportunities where the NFDA arranges for economists and industry experts to speak to the members regarding economic trends, potential head or tail winds, or other topics like the process of selling your business. We also collaborate with the Young Fastener Professional Group to educate the next generation of fastener professionals through mentorship and training.

“Inflation has likely been the number one burden to our industry over the last year. Raw material costs are up 50% – 100% (around half of a finished fastener cost is the raw material). Ocean freight and final delivery fees have seen a 10x increase at its height last fall. The issue with fasteners is that we max out on the weight of the container long before we run out of volume in the container. Things have retreated some, but we’re still running at 4 – 5 times what we were paying for containers from two years ago.

All these events and insights are aimed at providing the membership with information to help run their businesses, as well as planning for the future. As an association we are also always looking to continue to generate more members from both the distributors and manufacturers within our industry.”

“Yes. This has created immense opportunity for distributors. The threshold at which manufacturers are willing to let goods come through distribution and the value of our safety stock and supply chain practices has never been more relevant. We’ve seen a lot of customers come to us asking for us to take on parts they have always bought direct. Distributors that are able to provide insight to their customers through on demand data and analytics on their stock levels, relative to customer forecasts, and those who invest in automation and efficiencies have a bright future and a strong role to play in the manufacturing world. Those who simply rely on providing VMI services the same way we have the last 20 – 30 years are

More recent inflationary pressures have come around secondary operations, like heat treating and plating, as energy costs rise, as well as the cost of labour. I don’t ever expect that we’ll see deflation to the point of costs retreating to historical levels, but I would expect things to settle out and come down to a more realistic range.”

“The NDFA provides members with an opportunity to connect with industry peers in both formal and informal environments. One of our flagship events is our Executive Sales Planning Session that occurs bi-annually. This event focuses on connecting manufacturers and distributors over two days. The suppliers host distributors in suites where they can conduct business reviews and strategise on growing together in the future. The other main event we host is the annual Executive Summit, with the next in person event taking place in Naples, FL, from the 9 th – 11 th November –giving owners and key executives a networking opportunity.

Have these challenges also provided opportunities? If so, what? Have the last two years underlined the importance of distribution within the market?

likely going to end up needing to reinvent themselves in otherFastenerways. distributors have an opportunity to embrace connecting customers and suppliers through a digital experience that speeds up decision making and improves the flow of information. I believe fastener distribution is on the cusp of disruption similar to what eCommerce felt like to industrial distributors 20+ years ago. We can choose to be a disrupter and lead from in front or wait to see what others come up with and chase form behind. The good news is there’s still plenty of time to lead from out front.”

www.nfda-fastener.org

When humans first began to fasten things together is lost in the mist of time. However, wherever early humans ventured, these skills were always present and remained so within nomadic and isolated cultures. Agricultural skills and the need to cultivate fixed areas of ground necessitated groups of people living in close proximity. The shared interests of these groupings and the need to defend what they had from other groups created the world’s first requirement for mass production. The larger the groupings, the greater the demand for manufactured goods to supply them.

INSIGHT

The growth of the Industrial Revolution

Clearly, the larger the empire, the bigger the forces required for its defence/expansion, which in turn offered the benefit of ‘economy of scale’ from the use of standard parts.

The rest, as they say, is history. Big groups, which are successful, grow bigger and to sustain themselves need to grow ever bigger. Success creates envy and at some point, an internal or external threat will cause the brick walls to tumble. As in the case of all successful empires, the armed forces always provided the hot air that kept the whole show airborne. To do this, the Roman Army, the Terracotta Warriors of China, the Athenian Fleet, etc, were all equipped using centralised, mass production facilities owned and run by ‘the state’.

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Here Peter Standring, technical secretary at Industrial Metalforming Technologies, seeks to identify and evaluate the key issues that companies in the fastener supply chain should be considering in these changing times.

t is this author’s contention that the most important human invention was the ability to take two entirely disparate objects and use a third to fix them together. This ability made it possible for people to produce clothing, shelter, tools and everything we find in the modern world.

It was not until the rise of empires, followed closely by the Industrial Revolution, that the various states began making or

Will wearing blinkers lead to myopia and how could it impact the fastener industry?

The industry asked. We listened! The newest standard and innovation in on site machining and bolting solutions www.sygmamachines.com

A global presence

Huge, automated assembly plants with adjacent satellite supplier companies offering scale of economy efficiencies, which only the

Primary raw materials became more ubiquitous as the ever increasing rates of machine output and demand expanded, causing the local sectors of production to grow. Areas specialising in certain products became synonymous with regions where local manufacturers focused on particular goods. Equipment, skills and attendant sub supply chain elements gathered in all regions where these facilities were required.

ordering standard military equipment for their armed forces. The development of production equipment by individual entrepreneurs for their own use or for general sale meant the manufacture of goods was limited only by the availability of the raw materials required and the markets they supplied into.

At the global level, post 1945, the cooperation to create international forums for political, financial, trade and health, etc, provided the stable conditions which world trade requires in order to function.

Following such endeavours, and with a new world to build/ rebuild, the demobbed army of trained experts covering every aspect of peacetime requirements, poured out into the various communities to create a world for themselves.

In small centres of population – towns or villages – the local need for trade persons was met by blacksmiths, carpenters, builders, etc. In larger centres of population, local manufacturers produced locally finished goods for industrial and domestic use. Figure One shows this supply chain as it developed in the Industrial Revolution.

whilst working inside a clearly defined envelope of practicalities; creating the working groups which could deliver the goods; and bringing all the necessary elements together to obtain a successful conclusion; produced countless years of ‘on the job’ training.

Figure One: Supply chain development in the Industrial Revolution

The industrialisation of warfare as witnessed in the 20 th Century changed the world. The global nature of both world wars and the unending demand for more of everything gave rise to the need for interoperability within the supply chain. Goods in the wrong place at the wrong time or the inability to produce them to the correct standard, simply reconfirmed the military axiom that, logistics win wars. Simplicity equates to efficiency. In terms of manufacture, this ‘always’ begins with design. The myriad of state funded wartime knowledge gained in identifying a need; agreeing how this could best be achieved

Coal,internationalNational/Primaryrawmaterialsiron,wood,wool,etc Large centres of Manufacturerspopulation of industrial and productsdomestic Bulk finishedsemiandgoodsDistributors/retailFinishedgoods SmallDirectsalecentresofpopulation

Interestingly, this aspect of ‘collective localisation’ of specialities has been continued as national manufacturing has expanded internationally. From shoes to ships, ceramics to automotives, manufacturing centres for such goods appear to congregate in collective groups. This makes sense because it focuses the supply side, much as the establishment of local markets and, more recently, shopping malls have for consumers.

A few months before the Berlin Wall came down, China had experienced its own breeze of democracy and ended it abruptly in Tiananmen Square. The ‘command economy’ was modified to encourage direct trade with the rest of the world, the success of which created huge inflows of foreign currency – resulting in, the ‘China Price’.

The political benefits were clear – to integrate the previously communist countries into the democratic family as quickly as possible. For OEMs, the creation of super efficient plants in the East made many of the existing plants in the West economically redundant; so they were closed.

At the end of the 1990s when the central and eastern European tsunami was subsiding, China’s induction into the World Trade Organisation (WTO) provided the renewed booster to manufacturing ‘growth’. Having established a manufacturing base, the Chinese government promoted the prospect of ‘growth’ at least an order of magnitude beyond that experienced through expansion into central and eastern Europe. The message around boardroom tables was: ‘If you are not in China now, it is probably too late!’ The rush to offshore along with the ‘China Price’ caused the closure and loss of networks of local suppliers built up over many years to serve a near to hand business sector that now resided thousands of miles away.

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Modern supply chains

Of course, in the post war period, the free trade rules of ‘borrow today and pay later’ no longer applied. This meant the previous global presence was rapidly shrunk to within restored national boundaries and tariffs imposed to protect national interests.

The development of modern supply chains can be traced to 1989 and the fall of the Berlin Wall. At an instant, the need for defence spending in the West virtually disappeared and the ‘hot air’ that previously maintained it was significantly reduced. This transition allowed huge swathes of central and eastern Europe to replace the former communist economies. Like a released vacuum, the previously unenergised populations were greeted by an infusion of Western interest and goods. With well educated, low cost labour and citizens desperately requiring the means to establish a sound financial basis on which to build a future, major manufacturers flooded east scattering state of the art production/ assembly facilities to wherever profit could be obtained.

The scale of the market being served determined the size of the manufacturing operation and its need for raw materials. The growth of one meant growth of the other. Local centres for the manufacture of specific goods evolved because they matched the locations for supply and delivery, together with the environmental aspects required. Success created employment, which in turn produced specialisation. This concentrated industries in regions that became synonymous with the goods being manufactured. Around these grew sub supply chains, which served the needs of the local manufacturing base.

Trade has always been ‘international’ long before many parts of the world had nations. Raw materials collected in remote regions were carried to population centres where they could be furnished into semi and finished goods. These were then transported to other centres for direct resale or for distribution by travelling traders.

As always during times of conflict, there has been a race to improve technology. For the fastener industry, the cold forging of steel developed in Germany in the 1930s, using a conversion coating on the billet to hold the lubricant, was a major breakthrough and a state secret. This was picked up by post war UK and USA manufacturing specialists and was further developed within state owned R&D laboratories. So important was cold forging considered as a means for enhancing manufacturing technology, that, in 1961, it received Organisation for Economic Development (OECD) funding to increase its widespread industrial development/uptake.

Growth now became the word that those involved in finance saw as the goose that laid the golden egg. More growth (demand) meant more people able to afford the badges of success, which money could buy.

It is likely that throughout history, virtually all leaders would subscribe to the Darwinian view of ‘survival of the fittest’. However, most would construe fitness with strength and the ability to dominate. The term, ‘fitness’ used by Darwin referred to the ‘ability’ to survive, which need not require strength. For instance, small mammals succeeded dinosaurs.

Today, standardisation is everywhere and in the wake of the efficiency and cost savings it brings, disappear the talents of the personnel who worked and competed on the multiplicity of components that now no longer exist.

Figure Two: Venn diagram showing the global interaction of OEMs, tier one suppliers and their supply network (T2 to Tx).

Logistics

OEMs T1 supplier T2 ➞ agentsLocalTxSatellitepartsGlobalplantsTransporthubsagentsLocal

Where to from here?

Figure Two provides a general outline of modern supply chains. It should be noted that all mass production global manufacturing plants irrespective of their location are built to this model and generally, with a defined lifetime – with it being more efficient to design, build and equip new than to retrofit a pre-existing facility.

largest investments can match, today represent the current peak of mass production excellence. One of the key developments that has made this possible was the recognition in WW2 of the need to have standard parts. If there are many things that do the same job, choose one, make lots of them and dump the rest.

The supply chain model shown in Figure Two has not been developed by accident or through trial and error. It has been arrived at through a combination of many factors that make it possible. Digitalisation allows the collection, storage and dissemination of data. The use of data, coupled with transportation links, makes global logistics functional. Data, from design to legacy – including every aspect of scheduling, manufacture, and finance – makes the

WWW.FASTENERANDFIXING.COM 59

Given the prospect of global instability, that could be at least an order of magnitude more severe than what has been faced since the Covid-19 pandemic, new strategies for manufacture will emerge. This will naturally be costly and involve unwanted effort. However, picking the fruit before a pending storm knocks it to the ground makes sense. Just as the previous period of ‘growth’ was achieved on a step-wise basis of relocation, any new model for global manufacture will take place in a similar way. The fly in this particular geopolitical ointment arises when the focus on building stabilisation creates ‘blinkers’. Although well intended, these ‘blinkers’ obscure the wearer from other potential distractions as in the case of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. When someone says they won’t and then they do, the ensuing instability destroys any hope for efficient manufacture.

Since February this year the manufacturing world has seen a shift in the direction of flow of goods and services. At present, this may not be huge in the scheme of things, but the sirens have already sounded. The supply chain model that emerges will not be based on hope but on tangible assets, which can be exploited. When OEMs first marched across the globe and suppliers set up their shiny new facilities alongside them, they used their home-based supply network to match the increased demand. This was followed

modern supply chain operational. However, the key to this remarkable global success story is, ‘stability’. Throw a huge spanner into the precisely balanced mechanism and it stops. For example, introduce a significant loss in communications due to an enormous solar flare, an ongoing pandemic, a major (possibly nuclear) war and the whole super efficient edifice will collapse.

Concerns regarding the existing and potential threats that could overturn the apple cart are always being considered in all OEM boardrooms. Strategies for mitigating risk include reshoring overseas manufacture to the home base; relocating current manufacture to another low cost (stable) country; and bringing previously outsourced manufacture in-house. In short, ensuring control.

Despite the myth of some earth destroying global ‘flood’, as long as there is more land unaffected than has been inundated, once the tsunami recedes there should always be someone to clear up the mess. Moving stuff from low lying threatened areas beforehand will make the economic ‘fall out’ much easier to handle.

INSIGHT

In the three decades that the ‘growth’ economic model has been rolling, it has had multiple manufacturing ‘churns’. This has included building global manufacturing facilities and the supporting networks, rationalising/sharing design/production techniques and using web-based 24/7 working to reduce time to market and maximising resources. Where the OEM goes, the supply chain partners must follow.

by tier one’s obtaining potential local suppliers in a new location, often paying the home-based suppliers to provide on the job training and certification. Then, when tier one moved all or most production overseas, their existing supply network became expendable and was cast adrift.

Perhaps a new trend will emerge in manufacture where smaller, more numerous plants produce a greater diversity of product? The airlines are choosing smaller more efficient passenger aircraft over

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In the late 1990s, within the European Union (EU), there was a glut of steel making capacity that exceeded the demand. This resulted from enlargement of the EU and the fact that most member states had their own steel industry. At that time, the world output of steel was around 750 million tonnes. In 2021, China produced ~1.79 billion tonnes of steel, which was almost two and a half times more than the rest of the top twenty steel producing nations combined.

“With the introduction of our SPECTRE ™ brand we were finally able to offer our customers a ‘good, better, best’ range of brands – F&F, SPECTRE ™ and FORGEFAST,” points out Paul Swift, managing director at ForgeFix. “Since the launch of the SPECTRE ™ brand it has proven to be our fastest growing brand as it delivers in terms of both performance and price.”

“The pandemic has taught us all some very difficult lessons. We cannot continue to rely on purchasing the vast majority of our products from the other side of the world in the hope that everything will return to the way it was ‘pre-Covid’. We cannot control the greed of the shipping companies; the political decisions made by other countries; or ‘Mother

Whilst the Covid-19 pandemic has proven to be a major challenge to the business over the last two years, it has also led to ForgeFix looking to redefine how it manages its supply chain and customer offering. “A prime example is that we are now far less reliant on just one factory for each product range and also less reliant on the major shipping lines, opting to use a far more reliable service of charter vessels. From our customers’ perspective, we have also amended the format of

The subsequent foreign policies aimed at controlling the transmission of Covid-19, such as travel restrictions; as well as the high shipping costs; and erratic supply from the Far East; plus the anti-dumping duty on Chinese fasteners into Europe; have all been factors that have shaped ForgeFix’s future purchasing decisions when assessing product development.

ForgeFix has also looked to develop products and lines to meet the developing needs of the market.

A specialist in fixings and fasteners

In order to meet the needs of its customers and the market, ForgeFix has taken several steps in recent years to develop the products and services it can provide as a specialist supplier of fixings and fasteners.

stablished in 1991, ForgeFix can supply in excess of 5,000 different product lines to trade customers, including builders merchants, plumbing and heating merchants, DIY outlets and hardware stores. The company has also successfully developed brands that are well known within the market.

“In the construction industry there have been a number of changes in the last few decades, with timber frames replacing brick for many internal walls, etc. We have therefore introduced a range of products to meet these additional demands and continuously review our product lines to meet our customers’ expectations for the future,” mentions Paul.

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price breaks can be viewed on our upgraded website.”

the beginning of the year. “ADD have made a huge impact on our customers in both Ireland, Northern Ireland and the continent. As Forgefix did not have a warehouse outside of the UK, we were unable to act as the importer and reclaim VAT at point of import into the EU. This meant that our customers had to take on this burden of responsibility, which for many was not ideal. Currently, we are trialling a third party logistics operation in Europe, which will eliminate this burden for our customers. We can also ensure that all stock going into that building is of non-Chinese origin, supplying Europe and Northern Ireland with a more limited but ADD free range of products. This is just another example of how we monitor factors in the market and how we listen to our customers and strive to meet their demands.”

Nature’ herself. All we can do is mitigate and reduce risk, and to do this we need to explore new markets to ensure we do not have ‘too many eggs in a very large, unwieldy basket’,” explains Paul. “With this in mind, it is also far more likely that we will purchase products far closer to home than we have in previous years, with European manufacturers being the obvious first choice. Purchasing nearer to home will also reduce our carbon footprint, which is something that many of our customers have expressed as one of their chief requirements for the future, as part of sustainability policies.”

www.forgefix.co.uk

Another area in which ForgeFix has looked to develop to meet the needs of customers is its stock availability, which has been an issue for the whole industry over the last twelve months. “To ensure that we have sufficient stocks in the event of future lockdowns, shipping disasters, or raw material shortages, etc, we have invested heavily in both additional stocks and warehousing to accommodate this,” points out Paul. “We currently have the highest stock value we have ever had, even after factoring in the huge increases the industry has experienced over the last two years.”

Paul continues: “We have seen the cost of our goods increase between 30% – 50%. We have absorbed much of this cost, but have been forced to review our prices far more regularly than before. For our September price review, we have actually been able to reduce the list price for many of our products – with the vast majority remaining unchanged. The good news is that the high cost of shipping appears to be abating and raw material costs have slowly started to fall.

Your Fixing Specialist Telephone: 01663 719460 Email: sales@forge x.co.uk Web: www.forge x.co.uk Available from NUTSSCREWSFIXINGS&BOLTS HARDWAREDRILLS/PTANAILS

In the two decades that have followed, the organisation has grown, supplying precision engineered components to energy markets in the Middle East, North Africa, Caspian, Indian subcontinent and AsiaAsPacific.part of the multinational LoneStar Group, it has been critical for TripleFast Middle East to maintain the highest standards of quality and safety. For over 60 years, LoneStar Group has manufactured standard and speciality fasteners and gaskets and has applied industrial coatings that are primarily used in extreme temperature, high pressure and corrosive environments, such as sub-sea petroleum exploration and production systems, as well as petroleum and petrochemical refineries.

With such a broad spectrum of inventory available, the company has expanded its manufacturing capability to extend from small batch prototyping, right through to full production quantities and supply. To ensure the components and materials that TripleFast Middle East use meet the rigorous quality standards of the world’s energy markets, the organisation has developed and enhanced a Quality Management System to ISO 9001:2008 standards.

The company’s in-house quality control department also works in conjunction with several leading external test houses to provide certification from initial raw material testing to verification of finished product. Conformity of all in-house processes and coatings is ensured through destructive and non-destructive testing. Operating in adherence to clearly defined procedures throughout the manufacturing process, TripleFast Middle East can provide 3.1 materials certification to ensure full traceability and third party endorsed 3.2 certification for all products.

www.lonestargroup.com

Twenty years in the UAE

TripleFast Middle East’s core markets, including oil production and operations, gas and low carbon energy, nuclear, and renewable energy, demand not only reliability and high performance but also availability of product – often requiring short lead times for a wide variety of material specifications. As TripleFast Middle East

a supplier of choice for major oilfield and energy OEMs in the region and around the world. Over the last two decades, the business has been accepted onto approved vendor lists, and it makes us very proud that our components are named in the specifications for many projects. This is a testament to our precision engineered components meetings the needs of some of the world’s most demanding customers and environments.”

Headquartered in Jebel Ali in the UAE, TripleFast Middle East’s state of the art 15,000m 2 facility has expanded over the years to meet growing demand. Through continuous investment, the organisation has upgraded its manufacturing capabilities, combining conventional in-house manufacturing of bar turned products with the latest CNC machining technology.

“Being in business and serving some of the world’s busiest and most challenging energy markets for 20 years is an achievement the whole team is incredibly proud of,” states Steve Kettle, TripleFast Middle East’s vice-president MENA APAC. “We have been able to grow the business and expand, in part, due to the quality of the components we manufacture and supply. Our customers trust us because they know they can trust in the products we supply.”

Steve comments: “Our commitment to quality has made TripleFast Middle East

ounded in 2002, TripleFast Middle East was established to act as LoneStar Group’s manufacturing and supply centre in the Middle East.

In addition to expanding its product range, inspection services and stock, TripleFast Middle East has also seen its team grow. The organisation currently employs 180 people in the Middle East. “As well as adding new team members to support our year-on-year growth, we still employ a number of staff who have been with us for the past 20 years,” mentions Steve. “We have many more who are celebrating 10 –15 year service milestones with us this year. This is good for the business and our customers. Our people are part of our fabric and our customers benefit from having the same people in place, as this has been instrumental in our ability to forge long-lasting relationships.”

Going beyond the manufacture of bolting solutions, TripleFast Middle East completed Whitford Corporation’s Quality Approved Coaster programme in 2020 for the handling, coating and testing of Whitford’s high performance coatings.

has developed, so has its product range and stock. The group holds a worldwide stock range of fully certified raw materials, semi-finished and finished components worth over US$48 million (€48.3 million). This enables the business to produce either non-standard customer parts or supply in accordance with national and internationally recognised standards and specifications.

While the Covid-19 pandemic presented unique challenges to the markets the company services, TripleFast Middle East was able to manage the situation – utilising the group’s global footprint and capability to provide expertise in manufacturing and supplyStevemanagement.concludes: “By providing a combination of optimum product availability, high performance products, rigorous pre-dispatch testing, effective service delivery, and customer support that extends well beyond the sale, we have remained a supplier of choice for end users, operators, and distributors, throughout the height of the pandemic and beyond.”

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TripleFast Middle East, the specialist in fasteners, gaskets and seals, is celebrating 20 years of operation in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Bülte currently offers more than 30,000 references including washers, spacers, barrels, nuts, screws, plugs, operating knobs, plastimont, adjustment feet, cable glands, miscellaneous parts, as well as handles. “Customer satisfaction is still our number one priority,” explains Fanny. “This means that as well as our wide range of products we are concentrating on increasing our special parts. By adopting the best production methods to suit a customer’s technical and financial requirements, we can produce components according to customer demands and help meet customer needs as effectively as possible.”

INSIGHT

For almost seven decades Bülte has provided high-quality plastic fasteners ‘Made in Germany’. Through internal growth, a worldwide presence, as well as its new Groupe Bülte strategy, the company is constantly seeking to meet the expectations of its customers across four continents.

Features of the new website include a a powerful search bar; filters to help navigation and searching; as well as drawings – allowing users to easily visualise the type of part needed. “This new design, which is also dynamic and functional, should give full satisfaction to the users during their various searches,” concludes Fanny.

Bülte is also able to offer 2D and 3D prototypes, as well as CAD downloads to help with the design of special parts.

www.bulte.com

A new step for Bülte

Amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, Bülte was able to reflect on its marketing and communication strategy – which included investing time and effort into the customer experience. “For several years we have been digitising our company. During the pandemic we felt it was the right moment to improve our sales tool by bringing our website completely up to date to meet the digital needs of our customers and leads. The new website is more ergonomic, more accessible, more dynamic, and has been developed so that we can adapt to the significant changes observed during the pandemic,” comments Fanny.

s part of this growth, in June 2021 Bülte bought the plastic parts division of German-based Werit Kunststoffwerke GmbH – a specialist in plastic fasteners – in order to reinforce its manufacturing capacity and help meet delivery times. “Thanks to the acquisition of Werit we have been able to consolidate our position in our markets – specifically in the northern and eastern European market,” explains Fanny Bülte, granddaughter of the founder, and executive director at Bülte. “The acquisition also represents a major strategic shift for our new Groupe Bülte strategy.”

A new website – fast, dynamic, efficient and user-friendly

satisfactionCustomer is still our number one priority…”

National FX32 Salvi 780 Smart NGP200 Sacma SP25U MANASSERO Follow us on DEALERS IN SECOND HAND MACHINERY FASTENER & NAIL MACHINES MANASSERO srl - Italy www.manassero.eu+390115216446info@manassero.eu INGRAMATIC RP2 (7 machines) M8x90/45 mm, 410 ppm 1975 to 1987 E W MENN GW83L 4 12mm 150/105 mm 260 ppm vibratory bowl 1984 SMART NGP 200 (2 machines) M10x160/80 mm 450 ppm 2010 & 2011 TLM RS20 M20 x 155/100 mm, 500 ppm, vibratory bowl 1996 CE ORT 3RP24 max pressure 24 tons, 30 100 rpm 2004 E W MENN GW160H M24x250/150 mm, 200 ppm, dies 305/280 mm 1997 WAFIOS S200 3 8 6 X 25 200 mm, 200 ppm 70s VITARI V17 (5 machines) & V20 (2 machines) VERY SPECIAL PRICES SALVI 780/SV (2 machines) 6 35x80 mm 360 ppm 1986 & 1990 NAKASHIMADA NS60A (2 machines) 7 5x50 mm 250 ppm 1990 & 1995 SACMA SP31 (2 machines) 12x120 mm, 125 ppm 1978 & 1970 NAKASHIMADA NP100L 13x120 mm 40 120 ppm sound enclosure 2012 NATIONAL FX32M 11x75 mm, 300 ppm, sound enclosure 1995 NATIONAL 500 (3 machines) 14x50 mm, 100 ppm, Univers al Transfer, TKO 1986 SALVI 243 (4 machines) 5x25 mm, 350ppm, bushing cutoff, sound encl 1990 NATIONAL FX34M 11x75 mm, 300 ppm, sound enclosure 1993 SACMA SP25U (2 machines) 13x100 mm, 125 ppm, sound enclosure 1982 SACMA SP35 16x120mm, 105 ppm, dies' dia 90mm, 20 tons, 30HP 70s NATIONAL 625 S3LS 19/16 x 100 mm, 150 ppm, 24 tons, sound enclosure 1988 M A N A S S E R O s r l I t a l y i n f o @ m a n a s s e r o e u www manassero eu +39 011 5216446 TRANSFER HEADERS DOUBLE STROKE HEADERS NAIL HEADERS Follow us on National FX32 Salvi 780 Smart NGP200 Sacma SP25U THREAD ROLLERS MANASSERO DEALERS IN SECOND HAND MACHINERY FASTENER & NAIL MACHINES www.acton.fr 3 Bis rue du Faubourg de Couzon 42152 L’Horme | France +33 (0)4 77 73 35 43 export@acton.frwww.acton.fr

After a pandemic enforced pause, Fastener Fair Italy will be the first in Europe to showcase the fastener and fixing industry and exhibitors are clearly eager to get back to the live show experience and to build business relationships.

The fairground at Fiera Milano City is situated in an ideal location for both domestic and international visitors right in the heart of Italy’s commercial and industrial capital. When you reach one of Milan’s numerous airports or its central train station, Fiera Milano City can be easily reached by public transport from ‘Portello’ station on the Milan Metro. On-site car parking is also available at the fairground. Fastener Fair Italy will take place from 30 th November – 1 st December and is open from 10:00 until 18:00.

EXHIBITIONS

Visitor information

At Fastener Fair Italy, professionals in key manufacturing sectors will benefit from the ability to source the latest products and equipment and discover trends and innovations in the sector, as well as the ability to meet face-to-face.

innovations, and will be organised by Mack-Brooks Exhibitions in cooperation with renowned partner organisations. Places to present at Fastener Fair Italy are limited, so if you are interested in giving a lecture in the conference theatre, it is imperative to get in touch with the team at fastenerfairitaly@mackbrooks.co.uk . All visitors and exhibitors of Fastener Fair Italy are invited to attend the conference sessions, which are free to attend and included with the ticket. Full details on the conference programme will be released in due course.

PREVIEWS AND REPORTS FROM INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIRS

Following the success of the conference programme in previous editions, industry experts will be able to demonstrate the latest

www.fastenerfairitaly.com

astener Fair Italy showcases products and services from a diverse range of industries such as industrial fasteners and fixings, construction fixings, fastener manufacturing technology, as well as communication and services. As such, the wide range of products displayed at Fastener Fair Italy attracts visitors from many key manufacturing sectors, including construction, general engineering, automotive, aerospace, power generation, marine, electronics and more.

The exhibitor list is now live with 150 suppliers from over 15 countries, with strong participation from Italian, German and Turkish companies. From SMEs to many large multinational enterprises, exhibitors will include Ambrovit SpA, Bontempi VIBO SpA, Bralo Italia, Carlo Salvi SpA, CHAVESBAO (CHAVES BILBAO S.A), Di Costa Guiseppe Srl, Dimac Srl, Fastbolt Schraubengroßhandels GmbH, Lederer GmbH, MEVI ITALIA Srl, Piloni Srl, SOM FASTENERS, Teknoform Bağlantı Elemanları San ve Tic A.Ş, VIPA SpA, VISION Srl, VITAL SpA and many more.

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Registration is open online and, in addition, the show planner feature is now live on the Fastener Fair Italy website and can act as a guide to ensure time at the exhibition is as enjoyable and as productive as possible – by favouriting relevant exhibitors and conferences to create a streamlined plan.

The final countdown to Fastener Fair Italy 2022

Taking place at Fiera Milano City, Italy, from 30 th November – 1 st December 2022, Fastener Fair Italy enables companies specialising in fastener manufacturing equipment and materials, as well as producers, wholesalers, resellers, distributors, and end users of fastener and fixing systems, to come together for commercial activities and strengthen their business relationships.

“We are thrilled to see the return of face-to-face events and looking forward to welcoming the fastener and fixing industry at Fastener Fair Italy 2022. The strong exhibitor participation in the show is a positive signal indicating the industry’s need to return to in person events to facilitate business networking and trade, as well as enable new sales opportunities. Visitors attending Fastener Fair Italy will be able to discover modern solutions for the fastener and fixing sector and get real insights into the latest technologies provided by the main industry suppliers. Furthermore, a comprehensive conference programme will support attendees’ experience on-site, by offering a knowledge platform to gain competencies on the direction of the entire supply chain,” commented Liljana Goszdziewski, portfolio director for European Fastener Fairs at organisers MackBrooks Exhibitions Ltd.

Organiser:www.fastenerfairitaly.com Register now for free 3 rd International Exhibition for Fastener & Fixing Technology 30 November – 1 December 2022 Fiera Milano City | Milan | Italy Join the leading event in Italy dedicated to the fastener & fixing industry Industrial Fasteners and Fixings Construction Fixings Assembly and Installation Systems Fastener Manufacturing Technology Storage, Distribution, Factory Equipment Information, Communication and Services

Liljana Goszdziewski, portfolio director for the European Fastener Fairs at organisers Mack-Brooks Exhibitions Ltd, explains: “It is such a pleasure to welcome the fastener and fixing industry back to Stuttgart. There has been so much happening within the industry that we are looking forward to discovering at the show the most modern technologies the sector offers. Boasting strong participation from exhibiting companies, we can safely say that there is an eagerness for the sector to return to the live exhibition as there is no real substitute for face-to-face networking to strengthen connections and enable new sales opportunities. Particularly with such a large and renowned exhibition within its industry such as Fastener Fair Global, which has such wide ranging and international participation.”

From 21st – 23rd March 2023, Fastener Fair Global returns to Stuttgart to bring the global fastener and fixing industry back together to meet face-to-face and see the latest innovations, products and services, as well as initiate and strengthen business relationships.

At the last edition of the show, back in 2019, 85% of exhibitors received positive business

ith an exciting and enriching event to keep up to date with the latest developments and innovations that have affected the entire supply chain in the last few years, Fastener Fair Global will showcase products and services from a variety of sectors including fastener manufacturing technology, industrial fasteners and fixings, construction fixings, assembly and installation systems, storage, distribution, factory equipment, as well as information, communication and services.

Fastener Fair Global is organised by Mack-Brooks Exhibitions Ltd, part of RX. It belongs to the highly successful worldwide series of Fastener Fair exhibitions for the fastener and fixing industry, such as Fastener Fair Italy, Fastener Fair India, Fastener Fair Mexico and Fastener Fair USA. Fastener Fair Global is the portfolio flagship event.

Fastener Fair Global returns to Stuttgart

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www.fastenerfairglobal.com

enquiries as a result of taking part in the show. Furthermore, the exhibitor satisfaction was impacted by the quality of the attendees at the show, with 95% of visitors having an influence on or personally making purchasing decisions. The mix of visitors also represented the diversity of markets served by the fastener and fixing industry, with most visitors being either wholesalers, manufacturers or distributors, all playing a vital role in the supply chain. Visitors also came from a wide range of professions, such as senior managers, buyers, engineers, R&D professionals and specialists who source and trade fasteners and fixings for various sectors, mainly from automotive, construction, distribution and mechanical engineering.

EXHIBITIONS

A return to face-to-face events

There are already over 750 exhibitors confirmed from 40 countries across the world, with the strongest representation from German, Italian, Chinese, Taiwanese, Turkish and Indian firms – totalling over 20,520m 2 of exhibition space. Among the confirmed exhibitors are Alexander PAAL GmbH, Böllhoff GmbH, Carlo Salvi SpA, Eurobolt B.V, F REYHER Nchfg GmbH & Co KG, Fastbolt Schraubengroßhandels GmbH, INDEX® – A Perfect Fixing (Técnicas Expansivas S.L.), Inox Mare Srl, Lederer GmbH, MKT Metall-Kunststoff-Technik GmbH & Co KG, NORM Civita Sanayi ve Ticaret AŞ, Obel Civita San ve Tic A.S, pgb Europe NV, Pühl GmbH & Co KG, SACMA Limbiate SpA, Schäfer + Peters GmbH, SPAX International GmbH & Co KG, Tecfi SpA, TOBSTEEL GmbH, WASI GmbH and Würth.

21 - 23 MARCH 2023 MESSE STUTTGART, GERMANY Industrial Fasteners and Fixings Construction Fixings Assembly and Installation Systems 9 th FixingtheExhibitionInternationalforFastenerandIndustry www.fastenerfairglobal.com BOOK YOUR STAND NOW! Organiser: Fastener Manufacturing Technology Storage, Distribution, Factory Equipment Information, Communication and Services Showcase your technologies to the global fastener and fixing industry

Sheetwww.euro-blech.de2022metalindustry.

EVENTS CALENDAR

Specialistwww.fastenerfairitaly.com2022fastenerevent.

bauma 2022 Munich, Germany 24 Oct – 30 Oct Constructionwww.bauma.de2022machinery, building material machines, construction vehicles and equipment.

Taiwan Hardware Show Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Milan, Italy

FASTENER POLAND ® Kraków, Poland

EuroBLECH Hanover, Germany

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Hardware + Tools Middle East Dubai, UAE

Stuttgart, Germany

22 nd Fastener Trade Show Suzhou Suzhou, China

SchraubTec OST Dresden, Germany

7 Dec – 9 Dec Specialisedwww.joining-expo.jp2022showfor all industrial adhesion & bonding technologies.

OTD Energy Bergen, Norway 18 Oct – 20 Oct Oilwww.otdenergy.com2022andenergyprofessionals meeting to do business, share technical knowledge and network.

Global Automotive Components and Suppliers Expo Stuttgart, Germany

25 Oct – 28 Oct

Automotivecomponentsandsuppliersexpo.comwww.globalautomotive2022componentsexhibition.

Adhesion & Bonding Expo Tokyo, Japan

Leadingwww.parts2clean.de2022international trade fair for industrial parts and surface cleaning.

17 Oct – 19 Oct Fastenerwww.fastenershows.com2022manufacturers, distributors and users.

International Fastener Expo Las Vegas, USA

17 Nov Germanwww.schraubtec.com2022regionaltrade fair for screw connections.

30 Nov – 1 Dec

19 Oct – 20 Oct 5www.fastenerpoland.pl2022theditionoftheinternational trade fair for fastener and fixing technology.

26 Oct – 28 Oct

22 Nov – 24 Nov

Fastener Fair Italy

Tools,www.hardwaretoolsme.com2022hardware,materialsand machinery.

19 Oct – 21 Oct Tools,www.hardwareshow.com.tw2022buildingmaterials/DIY and houseware products.

8 Nov – 10 Nov

11 Oct – 13 Oct

Internationalwww.fastenertradeshow.net2022fastenerexhibition in China.

parts2clean

Nedomická 494, 277 16 Všetaty, The Czech Republic Call for information +420 315 698 020 sales@valentazt.cz www. valentazt .com 2021 STANDARDTHREADEDCAPACITYEXTENDEDRODSLEADSCREWSSTUDSFASTENERS

The road to future-proof parts cleaning

The need for resilient supply chains and increased demand for improved sustainability are the driving forces for major changes in industrial parts and surface cleaning. How these challenges can be mastered will be the focus at parts2clean – taking place from 11th – 13th October 2022 at the Stuttgart Exhibition Center in Germany.

This year, the B2B meetings will take place in the form of a hybrid. During 19 th – 20 th October, cooperation meetings will accompany the FASTENER POLAND® trade fair in the meeting rooms of EXPO Kraków, and once finished they will move to a virtual space. The event is organised in cooperation with the Enterprise Europe Network at the Chamber of Industry and Commerce in Kraków.

During FASTENER POLAND® visitors have the opportunity to meet important representatives of the Polish fastener industry face-to-face, in one place. The last edition held in 2019 saw 4,093 industry visitors – 43% of which were foreign visitors from 44 countries. The top five visiting countries included Ukraine, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Italy and Germany. In total, 210 companies exhibited, 72% of which were foreign companies from China, the Czech Republic, France, the Netherlands, India, Malta, Germany, Slovenia, Turkey, Taiwan, Great Britain and Italy.

ASTENER POLAND® is a convenient space for decision makers, engineers, and purchasing professionals, from key manufacturing sectors, to meet with leading fastener manufacturers from around the world. For exhibitors, participation in FASTENER POLAND® is an excellent opportunity to reach thousands of specialists in the same place, and time, and to present innovative solutions, which translates into strengthening market position, brand recognition and, most importantly, maximising profits while saving time and money.

Also taking place at this year’s show are the B2B meetings. Initiated last year when the traditional fair could not take place due to the Covid-19 pandemic, these meetings saw producers, distributors, wholesalers, sellers, buyers, and suppliers of raw materials, meet on a specially prepared platform. Overall, 156 participants from 30 countries attended over 177 meetings. Of the participants, 53% were manufacturers and distributors, 28% buyers, 19% wholesalers and other participants related to the fastener industry.

The 5th international trade fair of fastener and fixing technology – FASTENER POLAND® – will once again take place on 19 th – 20 th October 2022 at EXPO Kraków in Poland, providing insight into industry trends and key information on the latest developments in the fastener and fixing sector.

rom the automotive industry and its suppliers, to plant and mechanical engineering, medical and sensor technology, aerospace, energy technology and the semiconductor supply industry, new and modified products and manufacturing technologies – in the field of industrial parts and surface cleaning – require new, adapted solutions. This is also the case with the recycling of raw materials and the remanufacturing of products, which is becoming increasingly important due to a shortage of raw materials and the need to conserve resources. Added to this are trends such as digitisation and AI, as well as stricter regulatory requirements and climate protection objectives.

“parts2clean addresses all these challenges. Every segment of industrial cleaning technology and all of the relevant suppliers are represented at this flagship fair, which offers a comprehensive overview of trends, technologies, procedures and processes that no other trade fair can rival,” explains Hendrik Engelking, global director at organisers Deutsche Messe.

With its cross industry offerings and broad range of materials on display, parts2clean enables users from all sectors of manufacturing, as well as from reconditioning and recycling, to learn about the latest cutting edge solutions from industrial cleaning technology and directly compare the various technologies – from wet chemical processes, energy efficient drying solutions, cleaning containers and workpiece carriers to technologies for dry cleaning, such as CO 2 snow blasting, plasma, laser, vibration and compressed air processes. Other areas include the control, monitoring and inspection of cleaning, rinsing and drying processes and the degree of cleanliness achieved.

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Fastener industry to meet again in Kraków

Innovative solutions are also being developed in the segments of cleaning automation, including parts handling, developments for the intelligent integration of cleaning processes into connected manufacturing environments and Cloud solutions. In addition, the focus will be on cleanliness compliant manufacturing environments, such as cleanrooms.

“Due to Covid-19 and problems with availability, lots of European production companies have moved into central European countries including Poland, and with that comes an increased demand for fasteners. Poland is currently the 3rd largest producer of fasteners in the EU with its skilled workforce and reasonable production costs,” explains FASTENER POLAND® organisers.

www.fastenerpoland.pl

During FASTENER POLAND® there will also be a professional and substantive discussion on topics relevant to the industry. The organisers, in cooperation with the Polish Association of Assembling Engineers and Technicians, have planned a conference entitled: ‘A world of production full of challenges: From supply chains to distribution’.

www.fastenerpoland.pl Organizers:Accompanying event: B2B Meetings on-site meetings October 19-20, 2022 virtual meetings October 19-28, 2022 19-20 October 2022, Krakow, Poland 5th International Trade Fair for Fastener and TechnologyFixing 15% 4% BoardManagerdirectormember, TechnicianPurchase,salesspecialist Engineer,designerLecturer,teacher Visitors – occupational position* 33%6%9%2%Household goods Interiorfurnituredesign,ArchitectureprocessingMetalManufacturing,commerceAutomotive,railway,shipbuildingMechatronics,industrialproductionElectromechanics,energetics Visitors – industrial sector* *Exhbition statistics confirmed by CENTREX audit

EISENWARENMESSE returns

After four years, the sheet metal working community is eagerly awaiting its leading meeting place for the industry. EuroBLECH 2022, the 26th international sheet metal working technology exhibition, will take place from 25th – 28 th October at the Hannover Exhibition Grounds in Germany.

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At a time when supply chains are rebuilding themselves after two years of pandemic related cancellations and postponements, EISENWARENMESSE – International Hardware Fair Köln is back from 25th – 28th September 2022.

EuroBLECH is a ‘must attend’ event for design engineers, production managers, quality managers, buyers, manufacturers, technical directors and experts from associations and R&D in order to discover the latest trends and machinery in sheet metal working. Visitors to this year’s show can expect the complete spectrum of intelligent solutions and innovative machinery for modern production in sheet metal working, which are presented in the form of numerous live demonstrations at the exhibition stands.

“With international travel restrictions to enter Germany from abroad fully lifted, we can’t wait to welcome back our international audience to the world’s leading sheet metal working technology exhibition. Our exhibitors are already busy preparing their participation for the long awaited return of the show in October,” concludes Evelyn.

“Many innovations have been developed in the past few years, with a focus on cost and resource efficiency. While digitalisation and Industry 4.0 were topics only large companies were realising at the previous EuroBLECH, these key drivers have now reached the factories of small and medium-sized companies too. Exhibitors at this year’s event will present everything they have on offer to innovate and digitalise the manufacturing process, along the entire sheet metal working technology chain,” says Evelyn Warwick, event director of EuroBLECH, on behalf of the organiser Mack-Brooks Exhibitions Ltd.

“We are very pleased with how the event is coming along so far. There have been some cancellations, but we are also seeing amazing developments in the European market – such as the enormous increase in exhibition space for Turkey. As well as this, Germany, southern and eastern Europe, and the Netherlands, will have a strong presence as usual. Booking levels for India are also stable. All segments will be represented at the trade fair in the expected quality,” says Matthias Becker, director of EISENWARENMESSE – International Hardware Fair Köln.

Fastener companies exhibiting include DIRAK GmbH, Goebel Group, HAEGER Europe B.V, Heinz Soyer Bolzenschweisstechnik GmbH, RIVIT Srl and TRUMPF Werkzeugmaschinen SE + Co KG.

erman and European suppliers will be strongly represented, as well as a number of exhibitors from outside Europe. Due to ongoing travel restrictions, many companies from Asian countries will have to cancel their participation. However, they will send their products and rely on representatives from other continents to present them. For the first time EISENWARENMESSE will offer remote access to these companies and a ‘digitally present’ contact person.

head of the show, around 1,300 exhibitors from 39 countries have already secured their stand space at the world’s leading trade exhibition for the sheet metal working industry. Currently, major exhibitor countries are Germany, Italy, Turkey, China, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Poland, Austria, Portugal and the USA. Exhibiting companies have already secured a net exhibition space of 88,600m 2

EISENWARENMESSE is one of the first opportunities for the hardware industry to get a complete overview and meet a variety of business partners in person since the pandemic, with buyers, commercial representatives, as well as major associations such as EDRA/GHIN, BHB, BME and ZHH looking forward to the event.

EuroBLECH 2022: The gateway to a smarter future

“All these developments are reflected in this year’s motto for EuroBLECH – ‘Your gateway to a smarter future’. The event will offer everyone in the community the opportunity to come together and see what the future of sheet metal working looks like. EuroBLECH offers

Returning again for 2022 will be the EISEN Award powered by Zentralverband Hartwarenhandel e.V. (ZHH/Central Association of the Hardware Trade). Organisers and ZHH have once again set out to find outstanding inventions in the categories of innovation, design/ergonomics, and sustainability, with the winners announced on the first day of the show at 10:00 in the EISENforum.

its visitors the possibility to find solutions for the recent challenges in the industry and connects them with businesses from all over the world to help them integrate the latest machinery and software into their manufacturing process.”

PLATES AND SUPPORTS FOR WOOD CONSTRUCTIONS ON REQUEST Certified ETA 19/0535 OF 21/10/19 SIPA s.r.l. Via dell’Artigianato, 16-18-20 - 36027 SAN PIETRO DI ROSÀ (VI) - ITALY Tel. 0039.0424.562044 - Fax 0039.0424.564055 E-mail: sipa@sipaitalia.it - E-mail: ordini@sipaitalia.it - Web: www.sipaitalia.it www.anomaliecreative.it

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news and information dedicated to construction fixing products CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

Our last interview with Hilti was at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Clearly there have been numerous challenges over the last two years. Therefore, before we talk about the CPR and quality, what have been the key developments at Hilti in this time?

innovationcomesqualityThrough

ETA FEATURE

Reflecting on the external environment, obviously we are living in a period where it couldn’t get more complicated or more volatile. This has to do with supply chain interruptions, with the situation regarding Covid-19 and the ongoing war in Ukraine, as well as a variety of other factors. These have all created additional challenges to us as a company and for everyone else around the world. Based on the resilience we have built up as a group, as well as the success of the Champion 2020 strategy, we have been able to achieve a lot of good things internally – whilst weathering the external storm.”

Here we speak to Tassilo Deinzer, member of the executive board at Hilti Group –responsible for the Fastening & Protection Business Area, about the role of the CPR and ETA system within the construction sector and how a commitment to quality can also lead to innovation.

“Firstly, we need to separate the internal development within the company from the external environment. Internally I think we made good progress to implement our Champion 2020 corporate strategy, and innovation, in the industry. We also followed through with what we said we would do on topics such as digitalisation and our sustainability strategy.

One thing that we fully support within the CPR revision is the emphasis on sustainability. This is a very positive thing, not only from an industry perspective, but also from a humanity point of view. Sustainability needs to be addressed by everybody and we are all aware of the massive footprint of the construction industry. I believe the fastener industry can support the construction market as a whole in lowering the CO 2 footprint when it comes to the construction of buildings.

“From my perspective the current CPR process, in its form before the revision, works. It adds a lot of value to the European industry when it comes to fasteners, as we have a harmonised system in Europe that allows for a level playing field for all the suppliers in the industry. This also fosters innovation within a reasonable timeframe. If you take a look at how many ETAs are published, it is a clear signal that the industry is vibrant and is able to adapt to the needs of the customers when it comes to new building methodologies, different applications, etc. We therefore see the current EAD route as a positive one for everybody with some improvement potential: The speed of some of the administrative processes at EOTA and EC level is slow. The CPR draft does not resolve these concerns, but rather increases complexity and adds uncertainty. Today, the publication of EADs in the OJEU can take up to three years, this is not acceptable.

How have the construction markets around the world been impacted by all these different factors? What has Hilti done to support its customers?

behind it. We are leading the way in this area, as we are getting the tools back from customers and then working in a closed loop system.

When it comes to fasteners, the changes will come through building methods – modular design, modular construction, etc. The construction industry is not usually an early adopter of new ideas or technologies. It is a complex industry with a lot of players coming together to develop the finished products. However, from my perspective modular construction is clearly something that will increase in importance going forward. This is based on not only the sustainability and circular economy aspects, but also when it comes to a more productive way of building and the adaptability of buildings – possibly even less costly construction.

How important is it to have recognised quality standards and regulations (such as EADs/ETAs) for construction products? How do you get customers to focus on quality rather than the price of products?

To be close to our customers and to be a good partner means that we are also able to find reasonable ways of handling challenges, such as inflation. Like everybody, we have also been hit by raw material price increases and it is about finding the right balance between a long-term partnership and the needs of securing a reasonable profitability. This is where our direct sales business model is an advantage because we have direct interaction with our customers.”

I think as an industry we are just starting to learn about this area, but I firmly believe that it is something that needs to be developed by the entire sector. It could be a great opportunity for the industry to address the needs of the market and customers. As suppliers to the industry, it also opens up a new innovation cycle. At Hilti we are looking at what our role is in supporting and driving these changes in building methodologies and it will also remain a clear focus for us going forward.”

“The ETA system is very good and has a lot of benefits for customers, as well as manufacturers. It gives a level playing field and allows

A recent development within the construction sector was the European Commission publishing a revised proposal for the CPR. What are your thoughts firstly on the CPR and on the revised proposal?

Another key part of the CPR proposal is the lifecycle of products. At Hilti we have two main business areas – tools and fasteners. On the tool side the prospect of circular economies and lifecycle of products is something that we have been engaged in for several years and we have a business model that is called fleet management, where we take tools back from our customers and ensure there is a recycling plan

“First of all, being a reliable partner to our customers in situations like this one is of upmost importance. It is vital we are close to our customers and answer their needs. That starts with ensuring that we are delivering the products we have promised to deliver. For example, if an anchor is not available on a jobsite, then the work on the jobsite cannot continue, which is unacceptable.

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

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There are more topics within the revised draft CPR that need a closer look. Especially EADs being outside of the “Harmonized Zone” and the extremely long transitional period between existing and new CPR need to be modified to maintain the current high agility and European harmonisation momentum for the construction sector. Overall, EADs provide a good framework for the industry and provide a European level playing field.

No. There will always be iconic buildings around the world. However, I think we do need to have a different perspective on how construction can work. It is happening and will continue to grow.”

“I believe that everything needs to come together. The gains we will see on productivity will only happen if we treat this all as one area of innovation. For example, using a robot on a jobsite is possible without BIM, but it is not as efficient as it could be if you haven’t already laid out all the anchor holes or fixing points. Therefore, I do not think it is a case of ‘either/or’ but more of an ‘and’ in order to drive the next stage of production.

Changes or disruptions always create innovation and the desire to change something. With the unpredictable things that have happened, we also understand that in these phases there is always an opportunity for innovation. There is an opportunity to bring in differentiation and a new way of doing things.”

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for innovation. We are very positive about ETAs and believe this is the way we should continue to work as an industry, alongside the European Commission.

We make sure to have conversations with customers and find the right solution that serves the purpose. Sometimes, it might even be a more economical solution. If, for example, a certain application is over specified we reduce the material used for the application – such as installation systems or hanging pipe applications (value engineering). This underlines that a focus on the price per fixing point is not the right way to go, and a conversation about value is much better and productive.”

As a supplier, if you can deliver on value then that is what is going to make the difference. At Hilti this is what we are striving for.

perspective a lot of these topics come together – when it comes to digitalisation or modelling. This goes hand in hand with the opportunity to have feedback loops from the construction site and the project. By feeding back the information you can learn more and go back to the modelling to develop it even further. This enables customers to develop buildings in a more industrialised way.

Will industrialisation take over everything in the construction industry?

How do regulatory developments within the sector, and the requirements of customers, impact you as a business? How do you keep on top of such developments?

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

The ETA system has a lot of benefits for manufacturers.”ascustomerswellas

You mention robotics and digitalisation, which all fit within the trend for industrialisation within the construction sector. Does Hilti still see this as one of the biggest opportunities for the market – especially with the continued labour shortage issues?

Customers recognise us as a productivity partner within the industry and through these discussions it opens up other conversations that you might not have if we just served a basic customer need.”

By doing this we are creating a nice circular loop, where we can talk to customers and then develop groundbreaking innovations, which then help customers be more productive. Thanks to the work we have done in the past, Hilti has become known for innovation and its R&D capabilities. This helps us attract more customers to approach and speak to us.

Out of the areas mentioned –digitalisation pre-fabrication, robotics, etc – what do you see as having the biggest influence on the construction market?

As for quality versus price, I believe the key thing is that customers are always looking for value. If someone aims to provide the right value, then whilst price will play a role it is not the dominating factor. When it comes to safety on construction sites or the safety of a building, or additional services – engineering, modelling, etc – it is not the price of the product that drives the customer’s decision process.

“Absolutely, I wholeheartedly believe that industrialisation in the industry is happening today. I think some of the ideas are being implemented and not just in a prototype stage; they are developed and being put in place. From our

“This is where our business model really benefits us. We have over 18,000 employees out on construction sites having conversations with customers on what they need. This can help identify applications that potentially need new technology to allow for productivity gains. We then follow this up with solid research and engineering work to find a solution.

The question is whether with the current market and challenges are now an opportunity to take a leap forward?

A prime example is our robotics sector, where we have seen interest from customers looking at embarking on a digitalisation journey – maybe due to a shortage of labour or to improve productivity. From this we start a conversation about the different options – whether it be robotics or BIM (Building Information Modelling) or other propositions that we can bring to the table.

www.don-quichotte.com Keeping things tight. Since 1921. 100YEARS When it comes to delivering perfect results, you need a partner you can rely on. With Don Quichotte, you can be certain of just that. We put all of our 100 years of experience into providing ﬁrst class solutions for fastening, connecting, routing and protection. Count on us for high quality and clever solutions at competitive prices. That’s what we call being at home at your building site. See you around!

The most important uncertainty is linked to the unclear status of EADs. The ETA route offers a path to CE Marking and is therefore clearly a harmonisation tool. In the same way, EADs form part of the common technical language by providing harmonised assessment criteria for a multitude of innovative and other non-standard products that would otherwise be excluded from the internal market. Introducing a distinction between harmonised and other technical specifications that serve as the basis for the declaration of performance, and CE Marking, could cause confusion and lead to market distortions. Irrespective of the harmonisation route used, manufacturers should enjoy the same high valuation and legal safety.

EOTA also believes that the new CPR should include clear, ambitious and binding timelines for the citation of EADs. If these cannot be guaranteed, the current solution allowing issuance of an ETA and CE Marking prior to the publication of the EAD reference should be maintained to enable competitive ‘time to market’ for product innovations.

Sebastian Wall, president of EOTA

©EOTA©EOTA

Looking to the future, the ETA route will play a key role in achieving the EU’s Green Deal, Circular Economy and Digital Decade objectives, because Europe will need innovative, smart and sustainable construction products, which are not –and in some cases cannot be – covered by harmonised standards.

“EOTA welcomes the initiative of the European Commission to strengthen the internal market for construction products and transform the construction sector into a sustainable, resilient and smart industry. The proposal for the next Construction Products Regulation, published by the European Commission on 30 th March 2022, is an important first step to achieve these goals.

The proposed Construction Products Regulation (CPR) revision could potentially have a huge impact on the fixings sector. We therefore contacted one of the leading associations in the sector, the European Organisation for Technical Assessment (EOTA), to get President Sebastian Wall’s thoughts.

As the organisation in charge of coordinating the ETA route, EOTA encourages European decision makers to renew their commitment to facilitating product innovation in the European construction industry.

EOTA welcomes the initiative of the European Commission to strengthen the internal market for products...”construction

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS 84 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

Manufacturers of innovative construction products competing EU wide or even globally, need a fast and proactive means for CE Marking as offered by the ETA route. They cannot wait for two years or more for the ‘intended’ adoption of harmonised technical specification (Art.35(2)(b)). This clause should be deleted.Theacquis of EADs should be preserved for the benefit of manufacturers of non-standard products, in particular by defining realistic transition periods, during which EADs remain valid

What is EOTA’s response to the European Commission’s proposal for a revision of the CPR and what are your thoughts on the general concerns voiced by the industry?

EOTA calls on European decision makers to place more focus on creating an innovation friendly legal framework and ensure fair and equal access to the internal market for all manufacturers. EOTA believes that EADs should be accorded the status of harmonised technical

specifications or equivalent to reflect the fact that they serve the same harmonisation function and are subject to equally stringent technical, formal and legal requirements. They should be explicitly mentioned in all places where this is relevant, to avoid legal uncertainties and ensure fair conditions for manufacturers of innovative products.

ETA FEATURE

Within the CPR framework, the European Technical Assessment (ETA) route offers a voluntary and agile path to CE Marking for innovative and non-standard construction products. The ETA route has been Europe’s very successful response to fostering innovation and promoting high safety, as well as environmental and climate protection standards for over 30 years. This is what has built the ETA route’s excellent global reputation.

Assessing the proposed CPR revision

and available as a basis for CE Marking. Addressing relevant new performance characteristics in the ETA route should still also be possible as they are an essential part of the innovation process.

“As buildings account for 40% of the energy consumed, the energy embodied in construction products is key to its reduction. This aspect is even more important now – as the whole EU tries to decrease consumption of fossil fuels. Through the ETA route, manufacturers will be able to transparently declare the relevant performance of their product to help customers choose the right product for a construction project.

In the future, it will be the set of criteria laid down in the proposal for the new CPR that will define the sustainability requirements. Going forward, the proposal for the new CPR shows that the Commission places high importance on transforming the EU construction sector into a sustainable industry. EOTA and its TABs will be happy to assist the Commission and the manufacturers in these endeavours by providing technical expertise.”

EOTA shares the general concerns voiced by other stakeholders and requests the European Institutions to ensure a clear, sustainable and functioning balance of responsibilities between the Member States and the European Commission is found, whilst any bottlenecks in the citation of harmonised technical specifications and EADs, especially due to a multiplication of the responsibilities of the European Commission in combination with limited resources, are avoided.”

The TABs in EOTA have considerable expertise in assessing sustainability, which is included in our Project Team 12 ‘Sustainability’. However, there is currently no AVCP system available for the assessment of requirements relating to environmental sustainability (BWR 7 of the current Construction Product Regulation). It is our understanding that

What is EOTA’s main focus over the next two years?

What role can the ETA route play in achieving the EU’s Green Deal – when it comes to sustainability in the construction industry?

86 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

EOTA also believes that the new CPR should include clear, ambitious and binding timelines for the citation of EADs.”

“Within the framework of the CPR review, EOTA has been developing a set of actions to raise awareness of the relevance of the ETA route for manufacturers who otherwise would not have a legally safe, reliable and agile access to the market. The aim is to promote an innovation friendly regulatory framework by ensuring fair and good conditions for the stakeholders of the ETA route.

Furthermore, we are aiming at improving our internal processes to provide the best service possible to manufacturers, TABs, and business associations, who are looking to place innovative and non-harmonised construction products on the market. Meanwhile our technical work continues unabated and together with the European Commission we strive to have several more EADs published in the Official Journal of the European Union this year.”

such an AVCP system might be agreed upon by the Member States and consequently, it would be possible to implement the sustainable use of natural resources in ETAs for anchors and other construction products.

www.eota.eu

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

SW DG ISO 9001 ISO 14001

ETA FEATURE

C Quality right now fundamental…”absolutelyis

“The formula of the Mount Everest chemical anchor developed by our laboratory is designed to provide professional contractors with maximum strength and durability of connections,” says Wiktor Paradny, global product manager at Klimas Wkręt-met. “These properties are of particular importance in construction, where the required durability standard is calculated for 50 and 100 years. Such durability of our Mount Everest chemical anchors is confirmed by tests carried out in accordance with applicable standards.”

now is absolutely fundamental,” comments Maciej Strychalski, marketing director at Klimas Wkręt-met. “Customers everywhere need the assurance that the solutions they’re buying are safe. That’s why ETA certifications are vital. They not only show the products are quality, but they prove products are safe and right for the job.”

hemical anchors, consisting of a steel bar and an injection anchor, which is usually two component, work well wherever the safety of the connection is important. For installation, the cleaned mounting hole is partially filled with resin before the anchor rod is inserted. Its ability to connect with the irregular shape of the drilled hole makes it very effective in transferring loads along the entire length of the joint, using the bonding forces. The most important advantages of chemical anchors include the possibility of using them in various types of substrates, both in cracked and non-cracked concrete, as well as for installation in brick walls, hollow blocks, silicate blocks and aerated concrete. Pasting threaded and rebar into concrete of an existing structure is used in the construction of new facilities, but is often used in the reconstruction, reinforcement and joining of structures.

The anchors have approval for installation of threaded rods into masonry substrate (ETA – 20/0617), as well as approval for threaded rods and rebar calculations according to EN-1992-4:2018 (ETA –“Quality15/0702).right

Created with sustainable construction in mind, professional chemical anchor brands Mount Everest and Makalu, from Klimas Wkręt-met, are both certified by ETAs and meet the criteria of the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certificate – underlining the manufacturer’s commitment to quality products.

Also available from Klimas is the Makalu range of universal chemical anchors for extreme applications. The Makalu universal chemical anchor is characterised by a wide range of applications, in both indoor and outdoor conditions – in humid rooms, industrial and marine environments, as well as particularly aggressive conditions. Available in WCF-EASF, WCF-EASF-E and WCF-EASF-C versions for heavy and medium loads, these chemical anchors are used to protect multi-layer arches, multi-layer wall connections, fixings for lighting installations, as well as being suitable for repairing lintels, cornices and bay windows. They can also be used for fixing steel elements of column structures, protective barriers, plinths of machines and devices, rails, guides, window frames, wooden structures, gratings, hinges, pipe connectors, as well as cable routes to the ground. The Makalu chemical anchor can also be used on all types of surfaces, from ceramic blocks, bricks, silicate, to cellular concrete.

A new generation of chemical anchors

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS 88 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

www.klimas.com

Klimas explains that its Mount Everest brand of anchors is one of the most advanced formulas in its portfolio. Thanks to their properties, they can be used in demanding investments – from the construction of buildings and civil engineering structures, to the construction of roads and bridges. The Mount Everest WCF-ES epoxy injection anchor for heavy loads has assessments for bonded fasteners for use in concrete (ETA – 17/0234) and for metal anchors for use in concrete, used as an EAD (ETA – 15/0681).

Stainless Steel A4 - Highest level of anti-corrosion protection.

Galvanized steel - Guarantees high degree of anti-corrosion protection

STRONG FOR GENERATIONSNEW WEDGE ANCHORS more at: www.klimas.com | contact us: export@wkret-met.com LE-A4 LE-ZN - Wedge anchors (Galvanized steel) LE-DA4 - Wedge anchors (SQ Ceramic + Stainless steel A4) LE-ZNA4 - Wedge anchors (Galvanized + Stainless steel A4) LE-A4 - Wedge anchors (Stainless steel A4) ANTI-CORROSION PROTECTION INOX A4 SUPER SQ CERAMIC QUALITY Zn WHITE European Technical Assessment: ETA 20/0640 (LE-ZN), ETA 20/0641 (LE-ZNA4, LE-DA4, LE-A4) Design of chemical and mechanical KLIMAS anchors has never been so easy! Software is available free of charge. To download our software or to get more information please contact us. KLIMAS DESIGN FIX - FAST AND INTUITIVE SELECTION OF FASTENER

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SQ Ceramic - Special anti-scratch multi-layer aluminum-zinc lamellar coating allows the use of the anchors in environments with higher corrosivity classification.

Synonymous with quality and security

Any product with ETA certification must be indicated and accredited on the sales packaging with a distinctive mark. Additionally, special attention should be paid to the information required by the applicable technical specification. This seal can be found in INDEX® metal anchors, as well as its chemical and plastic fasteners. When it comes to ETAs for mechanical and chemical anchors for use in concrete, different assessment options are established based on the intended use in non-cracked and/or cracked concrete.

Constantly developing ETAs

“We’ve invested a lot in certification for this product, including shear, tensile strength, breakage limit and many other safety coefficient related tests, with an aim of developing a reliable product that is international standards compliant and safe for users. This product is a newer application in the anchor sector and can be used to replace conventional expansion anchors,” explains Ryan Huang, product manager at Joker Industrial Co Ltd.

uropean Technical Assessments (ETAs) are European documents that contain information on the assessment of the essential performance characteristics of a product. Obtaining an ETA makes it possible to bear a CE Marking, enabling the marketing of non-standard products in European and international markets.

INDEX® – A Perfect Fixing provides a quality commitment to each and every customer, as well as guaranteeing that its components are manufactured and assembled according to all relevant regulations and assessments – such as ETAs.

After achieving ETA Option 1 (ETA – 14/0374) in 2014, Joker points out it is continually extending its certification to cover more head types. Currently, Joker is hoping its high-quality bi-metal concrete screws will achieve an ETA before the end of 2022.

The characteristic of being ‘redundant’ refers to applications with multiple fixings, where in the event that one of them fails or is excessively displaced, the load will be distributed to neighbouring fixings without significantly violating the resistance and service requirements of the system.

n terms of structural design, the carbon steel portion – combined with the fore-end cutting edges and exclusive patented 3-circle hi-low thread design – allows the bi-metal concrete screw to cut faster, while the shank made from 316 stainless steel also provides excellent outdoor rustproof performance. In a practical test with other similar products, Joker reports the bi-metal concrete screw has been proved to achieve almost double pull-out strength and safety coefficiency with less amount used and better work efficiency.

Most recently in 2021, Taiwanese-based Joker gained EU approval for seismic tests C1/C2 to satisfy the demands of clients in seismic areas, as well as approval for concrete screws used in redundant non-structural systems (ETA – 21/0177).

www.joker.com.tw

In addition to ETAs for use in concrete, there is a specific ETA for use in concrete for redundant non-structural systems. Non-structural systems are those whose failure does not put at risk the general stability of the construction works – such as electrical installations, piping, ventilation and heating systems.

Also available from INDEX®, the TH/TH range meets the highest quality standards with Option 1 approval for installation in cracked and non-cracked concrete (ETA – 20/0046), C20/25 – C50/60, approval for non-structural redundant systems in concrete (ETA – 20/0494), C20/25 and hollow core slabs ≥C30/37 approx, approval for fire resistance R30 – R120 in concrete, as well as seismic approval C1 and C2 for structural and non-structural installation.

ETA FEATURE

www.indexfix.com

Among the range of INDEX® approved metal anchors, the MT range includes anchors with approval for use in cracked and non-cracked concrete (ETA – 12/0397), C1 and C2 seismic approval, as well as fire resistance approval and approval for use in non-cracked concrete (ETA – 05/0242).

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS 90 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022 ETA FEATURE

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

The DuoXpand is available in countersunk head and hexagon screw variants in diameters of 8mm and 10mm and plug lengths of 80mm to 120mm (diameter 8mm) and 80mm to 230mm (diameter 10mm).

©fischer

fischer has launched its new DuoXpand frame fixing, which combines an ingenious combination of materials and design, as well as various anchoring depths, to suit respective anchor substrates and guarantee secure and flexible application in solid and hollow construction materials.

Made of high-quality nylon, the grey main body of the DuoXpand offers a strong hold while the red material component ensures flexibility and optimal expansion. The European Technical Assessment (ETA – 021/0324) for multiple use for non-structural systems certifies its secure hold in all building material classes. The expansion element with two anchoring depths also increases flexibility with 50mm in concrete, solid and hollow construction materials and 70mm in all building material classes, from concrete to aerated concrete. Two additional anchoring depths of 140mm and 160mm expand the range of applications to hollow construction materials with large cavities.

www.fischer-international.com

Click here to find out more DuoXpandabout

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS ETA FEATURE NOPURECOMPROMISES.STRENGTH. DuoXpand. A member of DuoLine. www.fischer-international.com

The DuoXpand guarantees gentle force transmission in hollow construction materials and even load distribution in solid building materials

intelligenceInnovativeanchoring

“The product is simple and easy to use. Simply position the fixture with the DuoXpand using the push-through installation method, tighten with the screw, and done. The object is now permanently and safely anchored,” explains fischer. “The pre-mounted safety screw is perfectly suited to the plug and saves time during installation.”

In addition to a hexagon head, the DuoXpand frame fixing is available with a countersunk head screw, making it suitable for various metal and timber applications. The special lamella geometry of the plug gently expands in the respective construction material, while the intelligent design guarantees even load distribution in solid building materials. In perforated brick, the lamellae expands along the stone fillet and forms an undercut in the cavities. Thanks to its gentle force transmission, even in porous construction materials, fractures are avoided and anchorages can be placed close to edges without issue.

DuoXpand is available with a countersunk head screw and a conical shaped plug rim, variants that are particularly suitable for timber construction fastenings. The additional DuoXpand FUS versions with hexagon screws and moulded washers also allow a diverse range of metal construction applications, during which the wide plug rim avoids contact corrosion between the fixture and screw for a permanent, secure fixing. The respective version with a countersunk head or a hexagon screw can be used to carry out façade, ceiling and roof substructures made of wood and metal. The frame fixing’s wide range of applications also includes windows, gates and doors, wardrobes, kitchen cupboards, joists, beams, TV units, wall claddings, metal brackets and much more.

ischer states that the new DuoXpand frame fixing is another addition to its successful fischer DuoLine, with the product family now consisting of five intelligent plugs that feature innovative combinations of materials – covering multiple applications and construction materials.

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What is the process of creating an ETA and what do you see impacting ETAs in the future?

For more than 35 years we have been involved in the production and approval of fasteners for structural timber engineering. Our internal product testing to ensure the necessary performance prior to applications, completes this service.

We are convinced the fastener industry will also face increasing sustainability requirements from the market and ultimately from regulators. Therefore, AVVIO has already started to work with universities and standardisation bodies to prepare the ground for an energy consumption test to fill this gap and add an energy class system for fasteners in standards such as EN 14592 and EAD 130118.”

“All in all, the creation of an ETA is a clearly defined and regulated process. Nevertheless, it involves a lot of effort and requires quite some experience. Therefore, especially in a field like regulation and approval, we recommend not to take unnecessary risks and cooperate with experts who have a lot of experience. AVVIO offers a unique service in this respect.

Changes in regulatory environments have been impacting ETA holders for years. Here, Austrian-based AVVIO GmbH & Co KG looks at certifications in general and what’s in store for ETA holders in the future.

“A steady increase in legal requirements can be observed in the area of construction products. For screws in wood construction, several new versions of the relevant standards (EN 14592 and EAD 130118) have been issued in recent years, which has led to a great deal of uncertainty regarding the requirements currently applicable in detail. At the same time, there has been increasing activity by various national surveillance authorities. Serious complaints and potential penalties are becoming more frequent. BREXIT and UKCA Marking, which will finally replace CE Marking in the UK from 2023, will pose even greater challenges for manufacturers.

Surveillance authorities tightened the requirements for ETA holders in 2022, how is this impacting the market?

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

www.avvio.at

VIP Service With yearlong know-how, we take care of all necessary steps for you - no effort, no problems Full Cost Control ETA at a controlled price to save money & time Reproduction ETA Easiest way to obtain your ETA Internal LaboratoryTest Internal upfront product tests ensure necessary performance MORE ON: avvio.at/en/eta T +43 316 269 469 TOP ETA SERVICE MEET 2022 LEGAL REQUIREMENTSWITHOUT ANY EFFORT Technologies Austria Fastener & Fixing AUSTRIAN based company

With the regulatory environment becoming more complex, we see an increasing lack of knowledge about the process of ETA creation. There are several ways to obtain an ETA and participants need to know the associated benefits and risks. So called ‘reproduction ETAs’, for example, are often still unknown but an interesting option in which the prospective ETA holder – instead of going the usual, costly and time-consuming route of creating an entirely new ETA – enters into an agreement with the holder of an existing ETA to create a copy of that

ETA. It is obvious that this agreement must be drafted with particular care in order to avoid risks for both parties.”

ETA FEATURE

The future of ETAs

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ETA FEATURE

Part of the E-Jet® family, which was launched in 2013, the range was also the first Engel brand of wood construction screws with ETA certification and is available in a diameter range from 3mm up to 6mm – with a maximum length of 300mm. “The E-Jet® brand was the first step in the direction of self-aligned screws,” comments Daniel Kamp, head of sales trading at Verbindungselemente Engel GmbH. “As Engel was always well known for distributors focused on timber construction, it was clear that the range needed to be extended – and the range of E-Jet® X timber construction screws was born.”

Lastly, CELO says it is constantly adding new sizes to its range of MFR multifunctional frame plugs with two setting depths. Due to

ETA FEATURE

the high demand, the company has also invested in a fully automatic assembly machine, which pre-assembles the plug and screw, saving users time in the installation process.

CELO points out that its injection mortar

ith a European Technical Assessment (ETA) and CE Marking, the E-Jet® X is suitable for the most demanding design requirements and offers maximum flexibility thanks to its design with both countersunk and wafer head. The user benefits from the best possible result due to fast, practical processing in combination with an outstanding surface appearance.

ELO’s most recent ETA certified products include the injection mortar ResiFIX Pure Epoxy EPP SF; the new distance mounting system ResiTHERM® 16; and the multifunctional frame plug MFR.

Also receiving an ETA this year, the distance mounting system ResiTHERM® 16 helps fasten heavy loads such as canopies, awnings, French balconies or satellite dishes on insulated façades – bridging the insulation and anchoring safely in the brick or concrete walls. ResiTHERM® 16 also prevents thermal bridges with its glass fibre reinforced thermal-separation module and offers a safe sealing even against driving rain in accordance to DIN EN 1027 1A.

www.schrauben-engel.de

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS 96 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

“Despite the fact it’s not the desired market situation for a new product launch – such as the critical situation in Ukraine; the already long-lasting difficult supply situation; as well as the energy crisis – we are very satisfied with the turnover results. However, we also have to be vigilant in ensuring the delivery performance in order to meet the current market demands,” emphasises Daniel Kamp. “We will continue to expand our family of brands little by little, to be a reliable and strong partner for our worldwide distributors, especially with fasteners specialised for wood construction.”

Engel has launched its own timber construction screw, E-Jet® X, as part of its E-Jet® family. The E-Jet® X combines properties for structural timber engineering and roof insulation systems.

E-Jet® X for the most demanding applications

CELO’s latest ETAs

ResiFIX Pure Epoxy EPP SF excels in the ETA tests with an expected service life of 100 years – when the ETA normally states a service life of 50 years. Being safe and long-lasting, the injection mortar is suitable for fixing heavy loads in cracked and non-cracked concrete. In addition, EPP is also very versatile in application, the product is, for example, approved for diamond drilling and has obtained the European Technical Assessment for post-installed rebar connections. It can be used in water filled drill holes and is even suitable for contact with drinking water.

When it comes to safety critical applications, fixings need to live up to the highest requirements. That’s why with almost 60 years of experience, CELO products are continuing to receive ETA certifications.

-Plus is the newest version of the original Epoxy21 from the 1990s. It has many features and benefits including a 100 year service life, which is twice the standard 50 years. As well as this, the E-Plus has applicability in flooded holes tested underwater; it is fire resistance up to a maximum of R24; and has a natural ability to penetrate in holes and hollow materials thanks to the successful combination of fluidity and adherence – reaching up to 2.5 metres of extrusion. There is also no expansion or shrinking, making the epoxy suitable for use with masonry, wood, and concrete, in a range of temperatures that allows use at 50°C, as well as a strong grip on smooth surfaces such as core holes.

E Z.I. 2 - Via E. Fermi, 49/51 - 24050 Grassobbio (BG) Tel +39 035 3846 011 - info@bossong.com www.bossong.comsistemidifissaggio ® DISISTEMIFISSAGGIO OPTION 7 - 1 SEISMIC C1-C2 ETAG 020 - 014 FIRE E-PLUSPUREEPOXYRESINComingsoon03/2023 11/2022soonComing HIGH FORCHEMICALLOADANCHORCONCRETE RESIN MADE IN MANUFACTUR D BY BOSSONG SINCE 1 993 info@blumorgana.it EAD POST330087-01-0601INSTALLEDREBAREAD 330499-01-0601 THREADED ROD ETA ETA - 22/0469 EAD 330087-01-0601 ETA - 22/0468 Bonfatti Filettatu re s. r.l . Via De Nicola, 42 - 41100 Modena, Italy Tel: +3 9 0 59 251 6 0 4 Fax : + 3 9 0 5 9 25 4 22 6 e m ail: i n fo@bonfattifilettat u re.i t ww w . b o n f att ifil ettatu r e . i t ready for your warehouse, including: • Production of high-strength bolts: 10.9 – 8.8 – 5.6 • Partially or fully threaded rod / threaded rod grade • 8.8 Clamping bolts • M4 to M100 – Rolled threads and metric trapezoidal Experience & professionalism since 1966 CERTIFICATES ENUNI1090-1:2009+A1:2011ENISO9001:2015 ISO 9001

www.bossong.com

The next generation of super epoxy resin

ETA FEATURE

Bossong has also recently invested in a new logistics centre, which has enabled the company to completely automate its warehouse and connect it with all the latest technologies – leaving more space in the main building for additional production lines. The centre is also connected using 4.0 next generation technologies and robotics.

E-Plus, just like the Epoxy21 before it, has been developed following the earthquake that devastated L’Aquila in 2009 and Bossong SpA states the chemical anchor is the first product in the world to obtain the C2 aseismic certification for fixing standard threaded rods.

In addition, Bossong has just installed 1,250m 2 of photovoltaic panels, providing a power of approximately 200kW per year. This is part of the company’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint; a circular economy approach that it says benefits the entire community.

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

The chemical anchor has obtained numerous certifications including EOTA approval for concrete bonding in accordance with EAD 330499-01-0601 and EAD 330087-01-0601. Its aseismic performance is especially notable as it is double that of the current product and has obtained the highest C2 rating for M12 and M24. “It is the ‘jewel in the crown’ of this new 3:1 formula capable of reacting efficiently to significant earth movements, just as the certified aseismic rebar rods with 12mm – 32mm diameter,” explains Bossong. All Bossong chemical anchors are also qualified according to the LEED protocol concerning the certification of VOC content (Volatile Organic Compounds) and have obtained the highest qualification level, i.e. A+ rating of the French regulation.

Bossong has launched the E-Plus bi-component styrene-free pure epoxy resin – an earthquake resistant and green chemical anchor created to meet the needs of the construction sector while also respecting the environment.

Following an agreement with the European Organisation of Technical Assessments, here is a list of ETAs published recently on the EOTA website.

ETA - 22/0214 G&B Fissaggi Injection System Extreme Hybrid XTR,Extreme Hybrid XTR Summer,Extreme Hybrid XTR Nordic Fissaggi Srl

Mechanical fasteners for use in concrete

ETA - 22/0247 CELO Injection system ResiFIX Pure Epoxy for rebar connection CELO Befestigungssysteme GmbH

Recent European Technical Assessments for fixings

ETA - 22/0364 SPIT TAPCON XTREM/A4 SPIT

ETA - 22/0261 Ceiling anchor ANCU INDEX Técnicas Expansivas S. L.

he provisions of many European countries’ building codes require that materials and products, intended to be used in construction, should be identified by the manufacturer; qualified under the responsibility of the manufacturer; and accepted by the construction site engineer through the identification and qualification documents.

Most of Tecfi’s most popular roofing fixings are now ETA-CE certified, in compliance with the standing provisions of EAD330047-01-0602 and the CPR. These include the BIM02 hexagonal flat washer head BIMETAL (A2 stainless steel and carbon steel) self-drilling screw with special coating Steel Saver® 1,000h-R; TX01 hexagonal flanged washer head self-drilling screw with A2 stainless steel capped head, assembled with EPDM washer, with special coating Steel Saver® 1,500h; AB04 hexagonal flat washer head self-drilling screw, drilling capacity 12mm, zinc plated; AB01 hexagonal flat washer head self-drilling screw, drilling capacity 8mm, zinc plated; as well as the SD01 hexagonal flat washer head self-drilling screw with a drilling capacity of 6mm, also zinc plated.

With a catalogue of over 3,000 products, with a range of EU and anti-seismic certifications, Tecfi states it is the first Italian company to achieve an ETA on the majority of its roofing fixing systems for metal base materials, including screws and accessories for fixing sandwich panels and general roofing.

TRADE NAME COMPANY

Tecfi assortment for roofing panels

Post-installed rebar with mortar under seismic action

ETA - 22/0328 Chemfix CH+ MAX– Standard and Tropical CHEMFIX PRODUCTS Ltd

ETA - 22/0336 Injection system Epoxy PROFIX PIT-E+for concrete PROFIX AG

Plastic anchors made of virgin or non-virgin material for fixing of ETICS with rendering

NUMBERETA TRADE NAME COMPANY

ETA - 22/0268 GETO PLUS CE1 SMK G&B Fissaggi Srl

ETA - 22/0123 Würth concrete screw W-BS 2/A4 and W-BS 2/HCR Adolf Würth GmbH & Co KG

ETA - 22/0294 ISOPLUS LR ETANCO S.A.S

Screws and threaded rods for use in timber constructions

ETA - 22/0213 G&B Fissaggi Injection System Extreme Hybrid XTR Summer, Extreme Hybrid XTR Nordic,Extreme Hybrid XTR G&B Fissaggi Srl

For further information and a full list of valid ETAs visit EOTA’s website.

The above listed screws can be assembled with Tecfi SpA’s metal EPDM bonded washers, EPDM/metal umbrella shaped washers, saddle washers and rhomboidal gaskets.

Metal injection anchors for use in masonry

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS 100 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

NUMBERETA

ETA - 22/0246 CELO Injection system ResiFIX Pure Epoxy for concrete CELO Befestigungssysteme GmbH

Bonded fasteners for use in concrete - variant for sustained tension load factor for 100 years working life

G&B

Fasteners for use in concrete for redundant for non-structural systems

Bonded fasteners for use in concrete

ETA - 22/0391 Sigillite VE CE Plus C2 Vinilestere N.P.T. Srl a Socio Unico

ETA - 22/0390 Thunderbolt Pro SXTB ICCONS Pty Ltd

ETA - 22/0416 AKFIX C950 for rebar connection AKKİM YAPI KİMYASALLARI SAN. ve TİC. A.Ş

ETA - 22/0014 Profix screws PRO-CUT-RD, PROCUT-SD, PRO-CUT TKS-RD, PRO-CUT TKS-SD, PRO-SSF, PRO-CUT VGS, PRO-CUT VGZ, PRO-DS, PRO-COMBI, PRO-TA-COMBI and PRO-HWD

ETA - 22/0225 TT G Throughbolt Trutek Fasteners Polska Sp z.o.o

ETA - 22/0323 PROFIX PIT+, PROFIX PIT+ COLD, PROFIX PIT+ HOT AG

PROFIX AG

ETA - 22/0381 Chemfix CH+ MAX bonded anchor CHEMFIX PRODUCTS Ltd

ETA - 22/0269 GETO PLUS CE1 SMK G&B Fissaggi Srl

t is important to note that existing ETAs may be amended or withdrawn so this list should not be considered definitive.

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@fastenerandfixing.com www.eota.eu

ETA - 22/0362 Injection system TEKNOBOND 401 EP for concrete Tekno Yapi Kimyasallari San. Ve Tic. A.Ş

ETA FEATURE

PROFIX

Dependable solution for concrete

The EJOT Super Epoxy SE 800 is a very high load epoxy injection mortar for solid base materials, including stone, which can be used in dry, wet and flooded holes. Its performance capabilities make it an extremely versatile solution, suitable for use in warm/hot regions, diamond drilled holes and oversized holes.

ETA FEATURE

JOT offers two systems with outstanding performance capabilities to meet the requirements of a wide variety of applications – Super Epoxy SE 800 and the Multifix VSF. Both work by combining a chemical resin with a threaded stud which, when installed and cured, provide a secure anchoring fix with assured long-term performance in even the most severe environmental conditions.

Both the EJOT Super Epoxy SE 800 and Multifix VSF can be used in cracked and non-cracked concrete. They are ETA certified for anchoring threaded rod or rebar in concrete, fire rated, and have an A+ Rating for VOC content – with a superior design to provide high bond strength with high load, dynamic and chemical resistance.

Sister product EJOT Multifix VSF, a styrene-free low odour anchor mortar, is a two component chemical anchoring system based on a ‘high reactivity’ vinylester resin. It offers the benefit of low odour and fast curing, and can be used underwater as well as in potable water applications, being WRAS approved.

Injectable chemical anchoring systems from EJOT combine high strength with ease of use to provide dependable anchoring solutions for cracked and non-cracked concrete.

At the core of the systems is a high-quality threaded stud available in zinc plated and A4 stainless steel options. This features an embedment depth marker on the shaft, to help set the stud to the correct level, as well as a hexagonal nut and washer mechanism precision engineered by EJOT for problem free installation.

Both EJOT chemical anchoring systems are suitable for use in critical or overhead applications and enable anchoring close to the edge of concrete and at small anchor spacings. Installation is a simple process with the hole preparation involving a straightforward drilling and cleaning process prior to inserting the adhesive and the threaded rod.

ETAs are developed and issued based on appropriate EADs (European Assessment Documents). Put simply, EADs explain how to test products, assess the results, and define essential characteristics. So, they are the ‘road map’ for the test houses.

Different EADs are used to develop different ETAs suitable for different types of applications. For example, for structural applications in cracked and non-cracked concrete, JCP used an EAD for that purpose and developed ETAs for approved mechanical and chemical post installed fixings.

Typical examples for structural applications include guard rails, façades, staircases, tower and bunker silos, columns, and machine installation. These examples span a wide range of environments across commercial, industrial and residential

applications – including hospitals, hotels, buildings, shopping centres, car parks, warehousing, manufacturing and many more.

It is important to highlight that similar ETA/UKTA approved products on the market do not necessarily meet the same high results as those achieved and provided by JCP. Therefore, when cross referencing different products, a thorough comparison is strongly recommended.

The chemical anchors product range includes pure epoxy, vinylester, epoxy acrylate, styrene-free, and polyester resins, with Option 1 and 7 available, as well as glass capsules and J-Fix studs. JCP also offers a selection of nylon frame fixings, with a choice of head styles, materials and finishes to choose from.

n ETA/UKTA is an official document relating to a specific construction product, valid in the European Union and the UK. Although it is a voluntary document, regulated by the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), it is also a key requirement to unlocking other affiliated documentation recognised within the construction industry by architects, specifiers, engineers, and other key decision makers. National and international technical and standardisation institutions recognise, and actively promote and encourage ETA/UKTA certified products. Furthermore, most design companies and engineers almost always opt for approvals, recognising that following a policy of best practice is often the better option.

However, some applications are not structural, and therefore, some ETAs are based on other European Assessment Documents and are only suitable for non-structural, multiple use systems. For such applications, the number of fixings should be adequately high, so that in the event of a localised failure, the loads can be transferred to adjacent fixings, preventing system failure.

For instance, mechanical and electrical systems (cable trays, pipelines (liquid, gas), HVAC systems, etc) suspended from ceilings are predominantly non-structural. The bright zinc plated and stainless steel JCP approved drop-in anchors are a great example. The short-lipped version is designed for solid and hollow concrete blocks to avoid hitting any pre-stressed tendons in concrete; combined with JCP stop drills, the installation is effective, quick and easy to carry out and economical.

ETA FEATURE

Advantages of ETA certifed fixings from JCP

Here JCP, the specialist fixing division of Owlett-Jaton, discusses the advantages of supplying its customers with ETA/UKTA (European/UK Technical Assessment) certified products, which span the majority of its structural product range.

JCP Fixings offers a comprehensive range of ETA certified products, spanning the heavy-duty range of fixings, chemical anchors, as well as nylon and cavity fixings. The heavy-duty range includes throughbolts (Option 1 and 7), Ankerbolts (Option 1), heavyduty anchors (Option 1), drop-in anchors (including lipped) and socket bolts, with options on head styles, materials and finishes.

www.jcpfixings.co.uk

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS 102 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

An ETA/UKTA is a requirement to achieve a CE/UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) Marking, as legislation changes in-line with BREXIT. The CE/UKCA Marking will indicate conformity with the applicable requirements for products sold within the European Union and the UK. It is also a document upon which a Declaration of Performance (DoP) can be based. An ETA/UKTA can also be issued specifically for a construction product if it is not covered by a Harmonised European Standard (hEN).

3 STAR RIVETS MANUFACTURE Blind StainlessDeckingStainlessBi-MetalStainlessWoodStainlessSteelAluminiumRivetsSteelScrewsSteel(A2/A4)Self-drillingScrewsSteel(A2/A4)ScrewsSteel （ A2/A4 ） Tel : + Email:sxwx@3starrivet.com86-510-83571888 Website: http://www.3starrivet.com Phone: +1-586-232-3999 Email: info@tectorius.com Web: www.tectorius.com Distributors located in the UK and Portugal Contact us for distributorship opportunities • Optimizes Joint Assembly • Friction & K Factor Control • Many grades for any purpose Tec-SlipTM Dry Film Lubricant

By Pasquale Cozzolino, tier 1 manager EU GMF – region Europe/ India GMF, Atotech

The need to find substitutes for stainless steel in fastener manufacturing subsequently calls for alternatives in corrosion protection, bringing systems into focus that combine electrolytic and zinc flake coatings and can withstand extreme corrosion conditions. Shielding and protecting fastener substrates from their corrosive environment within timber structures requires a coating with maximum corrosion resistant properties. In addition, this coating must have a high-level of scratch resistance and is responsible for the friction behaviour of the screw. The coating also must not constrict the drilling capability of a woodscrew and needs to withstand the tooling.

Standards in the construction industry vary by country, region, and often by manufacturer and application. The environment in which a house is built determines the required fastener properties and quality level. For this reason, a wide range of different performance level specifications and requirements have emerged over the past few decades, posing challenges to fastener manufacturers and job coaters.

countthatsolutionsWoodscrewyoucanon

Atotech’s coating toolbox meets diverse requirement levels

Whenresistance.welookinto the requirements that a woodscrew must fulfil, we encounter a range of corrosion performance tests and standards –demanding various levels of corrosion resistance, depending on the environment in which the fastener will be applied. For woodscrews, tests like NSST, Kesternich, NordTest (NT MAT 003-2002), the outdoor exposure test, and ASTM G198, determine the required corrosion protection. Additionally, woodscrews must possess a high hardness level without deforming or embrittling effects.

Timber: A challenge for any fastener

The growing demand for alternative fastener substrates

With our broad portfolio of electrolytic zinc, zinc alloy, and zinc flake coatings, we are a ‘one stop solution’ provider for specialised coatings and combined coating systems that are fit for the

IN-DEPTH COVERAGE OF THE FASTENER MANUFACTURING PROCESS MANUFACTURING

ost-effective timber is therefore being used instead of steel to construct modern, creative multistorey office and residential buildings. In part, this is also due to the resilience of timber in a wide range of environments and its ability to resist horizontal and lateral forces from wind and earthquakes.

COATINGS, LUBRICATIONS + LOCKING TECHNOLOGIES FEATURE C

A shift is taking place in the building construction industry towards sustainable resources, ‘end of life’ recyclability, longevity and durability. As timber is a renewable resource, wood construction is on the rise –creating a 20% to 40% smaller carbon footprint than steel and concrete – and it caters to current trends for natural, rustic design. TECHNOLOGY

Increasingly stringent demands on construction fasteners and continuing import problems call for more investment in fastener production and expansion across Europe and North America. In recent years, stainless steel shortages and skyrocketing prices have also impacted the fastener industry, sparking a shift towards alternative substrates, such as steel, carbon steel and bi-metallic combinations.

104 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

Timber is not only deployed as plywood or in light frame constructions, but also in heavy, mass timber and prefabricated panel constructions. It is generally joined with mechanical fasteners, which must meet a host of specific requirements, including compatibility with wood preservatives, impregnated timber, sealings and fire retardants. In addition to user-friendliness in automated and handcraft applications, fasteners must have a high performance in corrosion resistance, appearance, friction, hardness and scratch

Innovative fastening systems for wood construction need to fulfil high technical performance requirements, such as application efficiency, which is defined by drilling time, less energy used by the tools, user-friendliness, and good performance in automatic applications – such as prefabricated timber constructions. In addition, fasteners for wood construction must be flexibly applicable to combined materials – e.g wood and concrete.

solutions meet

product range ensure outstanding corrosion protection with an attractive appearance and durability. Our unique products, global availability, and unsurpassed service capabilities make us a trusted partner for the fastener industry worldwide. Learn more about our products at: www.atotech.com

Limitless possibili ties . . .

requirements and

No matter what kind of corrosion protection you need, have the right tool for Atotech’s corrosion protection and exceed all industry cover the full spectrum of pretreatment, plating flake a comprehensive of of various possible exceptional

posttreatment systems with suitable coefficients

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Sustainable, economic processes for enhanced productivity

Our range of coating systems encompasses solutions for very high corrosion protection and dedicated systems for different requirement combinations, including friction behaviour, local and international standards, and corrosion performance requirements. Our coating systems also meet diverse requirements for economic efficiency, as demonstrated by their corrosion performance in various corrosion tests, such as NSST, cyclic corrosion test, and the Kesternich test. Our comprehensive portfolio of standalone lubricants, top coats, and sealers with integrated lubrication, fulfil the requirements for appropriate friction behaviour in construction.

Atotech has made an uncompromising commitment to developing more sustainable and durable coating systems and to eliminating harmful substances from its product range. We offer Cr(VI)-free and cobalt-free passivates for zinc and zinc alloy plating, as well as boric acid-free acid zinc and acid

Current efficiency is key when comparing the energy consumption of coating processes. With that in mind, Atotech has developed Zinni® 220, a zinc nickel electrolyte with a current efficiency of up to 90% and an excellent initiation covering power for woodscrews. Zinni® 220 is well suited to barrel production of hardened fasteners and fasteners with complex shapes. It can reduce plating time by up to 50%, outperforming state of the art alkaline zinc nickel electrolytes in terms of productivity. Several factors, including less intensive cooling requirements and higher current efficiency, result in a reduced number of plating tanks; increased barrel loads or shorter plating times; and lower energy consumption.

Wood is increasingly being favoured as a construction material because it can help to reduce emissions, waste, pollution and costs. This has sparked a major shift in woodscrew manufacture, encompassing professional truss fasteners and fasteners for DIY wood construction, as well as a wide range of fastener types for professional wood construction.

Atotech’s high-end corrosion protection coating systems, which are based on the combination of electroplated zinc or zinc nickel layers, together with zinc flake coatings, meet the most stringent demands for corrosion protection, optical performance and tribological properties. Both electrolytic layers, being sacrificial coatings, provide good cathodic corrosion resistance, while zinc nickel layers also provide high hardness and excellent wear resistance. The subsequently cured top coat layers exhibit strong chemical resistance and, by containing pigments and lubricants, provide both the desired optics and the required friction behaviour.

Woodscrew

With a rise in construction supply chain issues, and the transition to new fastener substrates presenting new challenges on the market, we offer excellent surface technology solutions that meet stringent new technical requirements in timber construction and its advanced automated execution. As the preferred global partner for corrosion resistant coatings, we provide our customers with the best local service and guarantee the consistent high-quality of our solutions all over the world.

Summary

construction fastener market – fulfilling the requirements of state of the art woodscrews used in timber construction.

In our range of products dedicated to timber construction fasteners, Atotech offers a colour spectrum ranging from blue or iridescent to silver and black. Moreover, we provide a selection of passivates that act as adhesion promoters for subsequent coating processes, such as powder coatings, as well as eCoats for fasteners requiring specific colours.

Top performing combined corrosion protection systems

In the fastener industry, attempts to substitute stainless steel, the prevalent substrate for fasteners, with other substrates, such as steel and carbon steel, call for more sophisticated alternatives in corrosion protection, as technical and performance requirements for fasteners are continuously becoming more stringent. Atotech offers a range of electrolytic depositions, zinc flake coatings, and combined coating systems, which provide outstanding solutions for corrosion protection. They also fulfil additional combined property requirements, which comprise of friction behaviour, appearance, cutting force and self-tapping properties. Atotech’s portfolio complies with both international and local standards. Our environmentally sound, durable coating processes do not only contribute to reducing wastewater, energy and chemistry consumption; they also improve manufacturers’ productivity by simultaneously reducing operating costs.

www.atotech.com

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY 106 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

Atotech is proud to have decades of experience in developing specialised fastener coatings for the automotive and heavy machinery industries. In these industries, specific requirements for friction, high corrosion protection, scratch resistance, appearance, and colour stability, play a vital role. They are based on fixed standards within tight variation windows.

Techdip® Silver SL is one example of a top coat that was developed for combined corrosion protection systems and zinc flake coating systems in construction applications. The organic, silver coloured, solvent-based top coat, with integrated lubricant, exhibits excellent adhesion on these surfaces. The top coat provides a corrosion resistance of more than 1,000 hours in NSST, and 15 cycles in the Kesternich test 2.0. The Techdip® Silver SL top coat layer does not show flake-off after drilling into wood and provides excellent chemical resistance, as well as a high UV stability.

coated with acid Techdip®passivatezinc,andSilverSLWoodscrew coated Zintek® 200 and Techseal® Black SL T

With our ever increasing focus on helping our customers to reduce their CO2 footprints, Atotech is continuously developing products that lower chemical and energy usage – while also enhancing productivity. One example is our Zintek® ONE HP, a base coat that has been designed for corrosion protection performance of up to 720 hours NSST with just a single application layer. With the base coat’s optimised flow characteristics, customers can achieve uniform coating thickness distribution, minimise touch marks, and make the layer thickness distribution more homogenous, which in turn leads to more reliable and reproducible corrosion protection capabilities. The one layer system can be applied as a one layer base coat, plus one layer top coat, exhibiting the same performance as older systems requiring two base coats and one top coat. With this more economical approach of reducing one base coat layer, the capacity of the coating equipment can be increased up to 50%. Zintek® ONE HP, therefore, can be an attractive alternative to multi-layer zinc flake coatings, hot dip galvanising and plating finishes.

zinc nickel processes. Our processes for zinc plating pretreatment are free of chrome VI and our alkaline zinc plating processes do not contain cyanides. Furthermore, all our zinc flake systems are free of chrome VI, cobalt, nickel, cadmium and other toxic heavy metals. Our products also contribute to reducing wastewater, energy and chemical consumption.

precote® electronicsmeets omniTECHNIK Mikroverkapselungs GmbH Munich | Germany | precote.com precote® 50 thread locking + sealing

Another advantage of the measuring technology is that it’s a contactless optical procedure, which means that no reference marks need to be applied to the object. The digitalisation of the component can also be undertaken relatively quickly, enabling surfaces and volumes to be calculated simply using modern software tools.

11MP 3D scanner in use Scan data of an M8 bolt in different scanneddeviationGeometricviewsofthecomponentfromthetargetdatacolourcoded COATINGS, LUBRICATIONS + LOCKING TECHNOLOGIES FEATURE 108

A new approach to technology

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

A structured light projection process is used to accurately record the surface of the component. Although this technology is not wholly new, it is only in recent years that it has caught the interest of industry – as the capabilities of modern PC systems enable the relatively swift digitalisation of components. But how does the scanning process work exactly?

The Vision Center can even use the laser scanning process to digitalise components of up to around 5m. “We have found a solution to record even very small details, such as a fine thread, although this brings us to the boundaries of resolution for this system,” mentions Sven Buhl. “In this case the surface of the component could be recorded through a cylinder to keep deviations from the actual surface to a minimum.”

A contactless, precise and digital coating measuring process

DÖRKEN and Vision Center have worked in partnership to create a contactless, precise and digital measuring process that can record different component surfaces – enabling optimal calculation of the amount of coating required for corrosion protection.

“We wanted to use screws for the first attempts at measurement,” says Christos Tselebidis, vice-president industrial coatings at DÖRKEN. “However, it is very interesting for us to note that this process can be used to record and digitalise components ranging from just a few centimetres in size to around 300mm – wishbones, wheel bearings, large pins – there would be no limits.”

Steinbichler

“The joint experiments were highly relevant for us, as the measurement technology enables us to make a precise calculation of coating quantities and consequently make our coaters even more capable and professional,” comments Christos Tselebidis. “A further major advantage is the fact that the component scans can be conducted by the customer on-site using handheld laser scanners. This means we can give a faster estimation of required coating quantities and tanks, for example.”

“A projection unit projects various patterns onto the part that is to be digitalised, with this then recorded by a camera system,” explains Dr Ing Sven Buhl, managing director at Vision Center GmbH. “The calibrated arrangement of projector and camera system is combined with the triangulation principle to calculate the distance information of the object that is to be scanned. This means that complete 3D models can be calculated using different angles to the object.”

ustainability is more important today than ever, which is why the corrosion experts at DÖRKEN decided to focus on the most precise use of paint in the surface coating of parts and components to deliver corrosion protection. To do this, DÖRKEN decided to work with Vision Center GmbH, based in Lüdenscheid, Germany, and use state of the art 3D measuring technology and digital image processing to measure parts and components down to the micrometre (µm).

www.vision-center.netwww.doerken.com S

High cathodic corrosion protection

CORROSION EXPERTS Dörken Coatings GmbH & Co. KG . Wetterstraße 58 . D-58313 Herdecke . Telephone 02330 www.doerken.com63243

Sometimes it is what is on the outside that counts. Our zinc flake systems are suitable for all screws and bolts and hug every thread perfectly. Premium quality that protects against corrosion, sets defined coefficients of friction and withstands a range of mecha nical stresses. However, we are not satisfied with the best and are constantly on the lookout for new solutions and innovations – for every problem, for every challenge.

Complex fastening enabled without problems

Cross-linking at low annealing temperature

HIGHTECHLIQUIDPerfectlyencased,perfectlyprotected

ND Microspheres® TA Series of pre-applied threadlocking materials

To learn more about ND Microspheres® or the wide variety of available applications for fastener locking, sealing, lubricating, or masking, visit the ND Industries website.

TA300 – low strength.

www.ndindustries.com N COATINGS, LUBRICATIONS + LOCKING TECHNOLOGIES FEATURE The ND Microspheres® TA Series from ND Industries is a range of dual microencapsulated, room-temperature-curing adhesives that can be applied to male or female threaded fasteners of virtually all sizes, configurations, materials and finishes.

TA850 – high temperature, with torque tension control.

ND Microspheres® TA Series offers three formulas to meet differing needs:

The ND Microspheres® TA Series also features dual microencapsulation, which is a process in which the resin capsules and activator capsules are combined in a binder solution. This results in a product that is less susceptible to environmental conditions than single encapsulation alternatives. The adhesive mixture is activated when a fastener coated with Microspheres® TA is screwed into its mating part. The forces of engagement shear the microscopic capsules, mixing the separate reactive components, and initiating a chemical reaction that locks the parts Undertogether.typicalconditions, ND Microspheres® TA Series materials have a fixture time of five minutes, with a full cure in 24 hours. ND Microspheres® TA products also give consistent and predictable torque values and require no heat or primers for curing.

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY 110 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

Pre-applied ND Microspheres® fasteners are coated to specification, ensuring consistent performance. Fasteners with pre-applied ND Microspheres® are also dry to the touch and ready to use whenever needed. The material has an on-part life of four years, when stored in a cool, dry environment, and remains inert until activated by engagement with a mating thread. ND Industries can apply ND Microspheres® TA to fasteners at any one of its regional service centres – with the divisions strategically located near metropolitan industrial centres to reduce shipping time and cost and provide better customer service and support.

As a specialist in the development and production of innovative materials that increase the safety and reliability of fastener assemblies, ND Industries Inc is able to apply a wide range of solutions that provide locking, sealing, lubricating, or masking features.

TA800 – high strength/high temperature.

Having ND Industries apply Microspheres® to fasteners saves time and money and improves quality control. Fasteners coated with ND Microspheres® can be automatically fed through standard feeding devices – speeding up the assembly process and improving productivity. The bulk pre-application of ND Microspheres® products to fasteners is less expensive than hand applying bottled threadlocking compounds at the point of assembly. It also eliminates the need for costly lock washers, cotter pins or castellated nuts.

D Microspheres® TA products have a cross-linked molecular structure, which creates a resistance to numerous chemicals – with oil, gasoline, salt spray, acids, most solvents, and water, having virtually no effect on the locking ability once a final cure has been achieved.

By Cavin Ciaciuch, chemist, ND Industries Inc

Here Content Director Will Lowry speaks to Andrew Kalnow, owner and CEO at National Machinery LLC –a global leader in advanced cold and warm forming machinery, process technology, and customer support products and services – about the development of the business over recent years.

“Clearly the sudden onset of the Coronavirus in March 2020, the resulting economic shut down, and then the continuing waves of Covid-19, rocked our company, as it did every enterprise. National shrunk during 2020, but we minimised losses, reduced our current loans and continued to serve customers globally with our worldwide regional service centres and satellite factories, which were and are self-standing.

National invests in its people

Hence, we consciously decided that National needed to be very proactive in not just hiring but investing in platforms that developed future skilled employees; such as, an ongoing engineering scholarship programme with guaranteed employment, and special programmes and funding at two different trade schools. We also elevated our stature in the community by a redevelopment project in downtown Tiffin that brought ‘National Corner’ and the ‘Frost-Kalnow Amphitheatre’ to life on a large parcel of landscaped green space –where parking lots and run down buildings once stood. We cultivated an image as the leading corporate citizen and top technology/ manufacturing company in our city and surrounding area with a populace of 55,000.

Not only was 2020 a totally unexpected year, but it also brought damage to National’s most important strategic investment… that is, our people. In the preceding years to the 2020 crisis National had determined that our most critical investment

In retrospect the biggest challenge to our company during this difficult time was retention of people. Like many, we instituted ‘short work’ with an attempt to preserve our workforce. This worked, but also didn’t work, as we still lost a greater number of our valued employees than what we had expected. Just before the Christmas holidays of 2020, I pre-announced that National in Tiffin would return to full time work at the beginning of 2021. This was a big morale booster, even though management knew that normal business levels had not yet returned.

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY 112 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

Our last interview was back in January 2020. Clearly a lot has happened since then. What have been the key factors that impacted National Machinery over this time?

In an even tighter labour market coming out of 2020, we have taken a series of further steps for investment in our people by implementing ever more competitive wages and benefits, including an enhanced 401k retirement plan; additional vacation; greater shift premiums; and 2x overtime pay over 45 hours. In short, we continue to believe that our single most important investment is retention, recruitment and development of our highly skilled people.”

need was not new manufacturing equipment or new products, but rather retention and recruitment of highly capable people in our manufacturing and technical workforce, including sales and service personnel. National, particularly at our headquarters and mega factory in Tiffin, Ohio, USA, faced the critical problem of about 10 – 15 years of very high-levels of impending retirements.

National had determined that our most critical investment need was not new manufacturing equipment or new products, but rather retention and recruitment of highlypeople…”capable

National Machinery prides itself on the high performance of its equipment and process technology. How does the company ensure this high performance?

What other developments/investments have happened at the company over the last two years?

We also have our Met-MAX Innovations division, which focuses on the development of process technology. The division was established over 15 years ago to be a dedicated and largely self-standing group within National. It has its own tooling design and process engineers; its own R&D machines for parts development; and its own tooling technology centre for production of proprietary tooling. Met-MAX’s business comes from non-fastener companies that are more often than not OEMs. These entities do not have full cold forming development capabilities, and they seek innovation.”

www.nationalmachinery.com High machines,performancetechnicalandprovenqualityarehallmarksofNational’sculture,itsanditsdedicatedcustomersupportnetworkonfourcontinents.” 114 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

The FXH Lightning is manufactured in National’s Tiffin plant, whereas the LEAN Header+Threader is produced in National’s Suzhou, China facility. Like the LEAN FORMAX ® machine manufactured in Suzhou, this model is designed to be a ‘no-frills’ machine to fit more frugal budgets. Both of the small header machines were introduced by National in part with the reshoring trend in mind.”

Although it would seem that these two machines are redundant, the two different models actually address different manufacturing approaches and priorities. The LEAN Header+Threader is a combination machine whereby the header comes with a built-in threader operating off the same drivetrain. This machine economises not only on space but also brings a 2-in-1 production advantage where there is only one operator for two manufacturing functions. This combination machine does however sacrifice speed, at 300 max ppm, compared to our other new header offering.

“Well, in the meantime, National has introduced two exciting new machine models at the 2022 wire® show held in Düsseldorf, Germany, in June. Each are smaller diameter 1-die 2-blow headers, a machine type that National was famous for in past decades, but were discontinued.

The FXH1 Lightning and its larger brother the FXH2 Lightning are high speed headers operating at a max 520ppm and 470ppm, respectively. These are great small FORMAX machines oriented to a manufacturing system where the threading department is separate from heading.

in process technology. You ask how we ensure this performance? Without being arrogant, after almost 150 years of being the leading machine builder from a performance capability standpoint, I think this performance is in our DNA. High technical performance and proven quality are hallmarks of National’s culture, its machines, and its dedicated customer support network on four continents.

Another example of our commitment to the high performance of our technology is that our FORMAX ® machines can come configured for Industry 4.0 digitalisation. The market demands for Industry 4.0 digitalisation differ regionally, with the European market being the keenest on this capability and the American and Asian markets less so, but we still think it is a key technology for the future. We are also working on further enhancements when it comes to our technology, machines and services.”

“National prides itself (as do our many repeat and key customers) in the high performance of our machines and also in our capabilities

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

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idex explains that the long bars are loaded on the machine by the operator. The machine then starts by shaking the bars, arranging them and feeding them from the bulk feeder into the one-row magazine, from where they are fed into the chamfer machine. Once chamfered, the bars move to the thread rolling station, where they are threaded on both

Theends.machine is equipped with the largest gear box that Videx Machine Engineering Ltd has ever supplied, assuring the full torque even for harder steel grades. The Videx chamfer and stations work dry and clean, automatically collecting the chips off the work area. The parts are positively gripped in the chamfer station, assuring smooth, vibration-free chamfers with longer life to the chamfer cutting tips.

Videx is offering added capacity to customers through its fully automatic line for long bars, incorporating a bar feeder from bulk, bar shear, a chamfer machine (dual side) and thread rolling machine.

The feed of the bars into the thread rolling dies is also controlled. A set of sensors check the position of the bars along the feed process into the dies and makes sure the feed is absolutely parallel, eliminating any risk of damage to the thread rolling dies due to improper feed. The line also works from coil.

www.videx-machine.com

Z.I. Intxausti s/nº 20720 Azkoitia, Gipuzkoa. Spain. T +34 943 850 262 +34 943 850 266 F +34 943 853 445 M saspi@saspi.es

Videx line for chamfered and threaded bars

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

OPTISORT with new feedinghigh-speedsystem

his new feeding system requires only a small amount of installation space but is still very efficient. Filling of the feeding system is done by a bunker system with vibrating channel. The output of the feeding device is a continuous gap-less part

New WAFIOSinnovativepartsoutput

WAFIOS Umformtechnik is revolutionising the output of finished parts from the machine with a new PTS parts output, which avoids the mixing of parts when changing products.

WAFIOS explains this new output has many advantages, which includes eliminating the need to wash parts before further processing, as parts come out of the machine virtually oil free due to the clean machine environment. The machine also enables a saving for manufacturers on conveyor belts and other related equipment, as well as an increase in tool life due to the cooling effect.

A new high-speed feeding system from GEFRA has been designed for the fast feeding of nuts and washers into OPTISORT inspection and sorting machines – capable of providing the machines with up to 1,200 parts per minute.

GEFRAchain.

GmbH is a long established manufacturer and developer of OPTISORT sorting and inspection machines for the fastener industry. The company offers two main machine OPTISORT designs – steel ring type OPTISORT ST for inspecting screws, blind rivets and long rod shaped parts –with diameters 1.4mm – 18mm and lengths up to 160mm; as well as the glass ring type OPTISORT W for inspection of nuts, washers, rivets, and other flat parts, with a surface 90mm x 90mm and up to 130mm in height.

Herknerstraße 4 88250 Weingarten T + 49 75156164-0 the KEY for transparency and efficiency in MES-Softwareproduction SK-go!® Sales | Support | www.schwer-kopka.deInformation:4.0 MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

The PTS not only extracts the parts, but also the oil mist from the press area. Due to the significantly reduced extraction volumes of the PTS, in most cases, oil mist extraction systems can be designed correspondingly smaller. As well as the new HC 4 rotor press type machines, existing WAFIOS machines can also be equipped with this innovative system in order to benefit from the advantages in existing production set-ups.

y taking the finished parts directly at the die, the new PTS then guides them through a pipe system out of the machine to the desired location. Good and bad parts are then carefully separated by a sorting gate.

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o ensure the quality of subsequent process steps, avoid rejects, as well as guarantee the functionality of the end product, consistent parts cleanliness is an essential quality criterion. Ever stricter or even modified cleanliness specifications must be met. In addition, demands on the speed, cost effectiveness and sustainability of the cleaning process are constantly rising. However, how well, fast, and efficiently, the cleaning work is carried out depends not only on the equipment, the process technology and the medium used, but also on factors relating to the cleaning process itself.

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

By Doris Schulz, Journalist DJV –on behalf of ECOCLEAN GROUP

This type of crate blocks ultrasonic waves and prevents them from developing their full effect on the wash load. Likewise, the spray pressure does not reach the inside of the perforated crates. Compared to baskets made of round wire, a further problem is that the cleaning medium does not drip off these crates as effectively. This may result in the unwanted transfer of contaminants and/or cleaning

CleanWorkpieces.EconomicalandSustainable. www.ecoclean-group.net Surface Processing & Selective CleaningWaterjetHigh-pressureDeburring Solvent Cleaning Ultrasonic CleaningAqueous Cleaning Cleaning Fasteners? Learn more Cleaning processes often offer considerable potential for improvement when it comes to making cleaning operations more reliable, economical and sustainable. The first step is to carry out a systematic process analysis that also takes a close look at upstream and downstream production steps.

If staining is the problem, one of the questions to be asked is whether the quantity and composition of the contaminants (processing media and other substances) have changed or whether the constituents and concentration of the cleaning medium are still appropriate. Other factors, such as rinsing water quality, bath treatment, process technology and process sequence, as well as the drying step, are also closely examined. These are further influencing variables that play a role if thin film cleanliness results are unsatisfactory.

A poor cleaning result, or one that does not meet new higher requirements, is a ‘classic’ reason for carrying out a process analysis. The first step is to identify the exact problem – are thin film cleanliness specifications not being fulfilled or are there stains on the parts?

So, what do you do if parts suddenly come out of the system stained; if specifications for particulate or thin film cleanliness are no longer met; the cleaned parts arrive corroded; or cleaning is too

slow/too cost intensive? In the case of these and other problems, a systematic process analysis such as that carried out by the ECOCLEAN Academy can pinpoint the root cause of the error. The cleaning experts not only focus on the actual cleaning process and equipment, but also assess the overall manufacturing environment. The smallest change to the part, part spectrum or material, type of contamination, or modifications to upstream or downstream processes, is enough to seriously impair cleaning results.

If the cleanliness analysis after the cleaning cycle shows that too many or too large particles are still adhering to the parts, this may also be due to the cleaning program and process sequence used. Possible causes include residual particles in the working chamber or on the part carriers, an unsuitable filtration system, or a clogged filter. Sometimes, it is the wrong choice of cleaning containers, such as crates made of perforated galvanised sheet metal, which hinders the efficient and reliable detachment and removal of the particles.

Analysing and optimising cleaning processes

Investing in the training and continuing education of cleaning staff is therefore a cornerstone in order to achieve reliable cleanliness requirements in an economical and sustainable manner. The ECOCLEAN Academy therefore also combines process analyses with classic training courses.

A further cause of a failed cleanliness inspection is often burrs that are still attached to the parts, which detach when the parts are handled during the residual contamination check and then show up on the particle filter. If these particles are examined under a microscope, it can be determined whether they are chips or burrs. If the latter is the case, upstream processes must be evaluated to find out where the burrs occur and how their formation can be avoided.

chemicals. In any case, much longer and thus more energy intensive drying processes are required.

Particulate cleanliness can also be impaired by magnetism that is ‘bought in’ with raw materials or arises during the manufacturing process. Magnetism binds chips to the parts and hinders or prevents their removal during the cleaning process. However, the cleaning process is not over when the parts come out of the machine.

To prevent recontamination or corrosion, which can occur even with preserved or passivated parts, it is important to look at how parts are handled after the cleaning step. The following questions need to be answered: Where, how and for how long are the parts stored? How are they transported to the next processing step? What kind of packaging is needed for this? In addition, high cleanliness requirements often make it necessary for processes such as internal transport, assembly or packaging, to be performed in a clean environment or cleanroom.

Besides cleaning problems, modified cleaning programmes can be a further reason for carrying out a process analysis. The aim is generally to shorten process times or enhance the cleaning result. As always, the analysis starts by documenting the actual state, which includes verifying the process parameters, process sequence and process times. Based on the analysis results, potential for improvement can be identified and appropriate measures can be defined. These may include modernising the system, such as by retrofitting or upgrading ultrasonic equipment.

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

www.ecoclean-group.net Product range • Flat thread rolling dies • Flat knurling dies • Flat form rolling dies • Circular thread rolls • Tangential chasers Licenced Products • Taptite PRO® • Taptite 2000® • Duo Taptite® • Powerlok® • High-Torque® • Taptite II® • Taptite® CA • Plastite® • Screwbolt® • Mathread® • Remform® Anchor Point, Walsall Road, Norton Canes, WS11 9NS Email: info@rlstooling.co.uk | Tel: +44 (0)1543 271 808 www.rlstooling.co.ukNEW14,000SQFTWORKSHOP CALL US NOW TO SEE HOW WE CAN HELP YOU The leading supplier of construction fasteners export@logisspzoo.pl+48535823333 large stock, fast delivery reliable partner for demanding clients www.logisspzoo.pl

It is essential that the parts cleaning staff are involved in the process analysis and optimisation measures. Raising staff awareness about cleanliness, as well as about the capabilities of the cleaning technology and the impact of parameter settings on the cleaning result, is a key factor. If there is a change of personnel, it is also important that knowledge of how the cleaning system works and how, for example, bath treatment measures or regular maintenance work on the cleaning system are carried out, is passed on. Otherwise, problems that had been eliminated in the past may occur again.

New 1D2B combined header model KSP12-R ALL-IN-ONE to run fasteners from M3 to M8

The KSP12-R combines typical SACMA solutions, proven by thousands of machines, with the most advanced mechatronic technology available in the market. Major set up adjustments are motorized for a quick and friendly changeover: S-feed wire feeder driven by torque motor, motorized wire stock gauge and DKO, threading starter driven by torque motor with self-learning function borrowed from Ingramatic rollers. The quality management is facilitated by two gates interfaced with the load monitoring system and discharging NC parts respectively after the header and after the roller. An optional sophisticated load control system is protecting the machine against overloads and is monitoring the forming and rolling processes. Scraps separators in different sizes are available when producing self-tapping screws. more information : WITH S-FEED WIRE FEEDER DRIVEN BY TORQUE MOTOR

info@sacmalimbiate.it 1D2B header with threading unit • All In One www.sacmagroup.com KSP12-R • WORLD PREMIERE Sacma Limbiate S.p.A. Viale Dei Mille 126-128 • 20812 Limbiate (MB) - ITALY Ph. +39 0299 4521 • info@sacmalimbiate.it 1D2B UNIT

THREADING UNIT WITH STARTER DRIVEN BY TORQUE MOTOR

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Ask for

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

This constant investment in machinery has also enabled Viti to reorganise its production process. Industry 4.0 has been implemented on the latest Carlo Salvi headers in order to interconnect processes and products using the latest digital technologies. The reorganisation of the production process means there will be a direct connection between the office and the machines with a view to a bilateral relationship and an ever faster exchange of data. This technology can be applied to all internal programming and maintenance activities in order to contain costs, as well as guarantee constant compliance with delivery

For daily production Viti has only used Carlo Salvi headers – with the first arriving in 1976. Despite having produced billions of parts annually, the machine has never needed extraordinary interventions and maintenance. Viti now has 30 Carlo Salvi header models, with the 31 st on its way.

www.carlosalvi.com

degree customer care guide is the daily activity. This professional consistency and affinity of thought were immediately perceived from our company, which was readily available to establish a working collaboration with great expectations,” says Germano Pandiani, COO at Carlo Salvi SpA.

The company’s products are used by European and Italian businesses operating in a variety of industries – from the classic hinges for furniture, to components for coffee machines, the white goods industry, cars and ovens. Over the years, Viti has developed an internal department for the design and, in part, for the autonomous construction of tools. It has also made investments for secondary operations to complete the production cycle – such as rolling, galvanising, heat treatments – in order to carefully control quality before packing the parts. The materials that are mainly treated range from C4C, C35 steel, A2, A4 stainless steel and brass.

The goal is to open our doors to unexplored markets, enriching our production range with special, fully parts…”customised

Coordinatedtimes.

iti is a producer of self-tapping screws and fastening systems that was founded in 1974 by Mr Adriano Ferrario. Today, under the guidance of his two sons Angelo and Stefano, the company has 45 employees and a total annual production that fluctuates around one billion pieces.

Carlo Salvi Stories: Utilising a whole range of headers

In turn, Angelo Ferrario, purchasing sales manager and president of Viti, together with his brother Stefano, recalls the beginning of the story with the Garlate company: “The motivation that prompted us to collaborate with Carlo Salvi is the proven historicity and corporate solidity, as well as the awareness that we would have to deal with the best world leaders in the field of double stroke headers. Over the years, we have increasingly realised how much what binds us to the company is a tangible result due to professionalism, safety, quality of service, reliability and technical excellence. We can affirm that ours is not a mere professional relationship, but a bond of friendship built over the years and supported by continuous trust as well as by high-quality and long-lasting outputs.”

From the beginning the two companies have established a deep bond, strengthened by the territoriality that unites them and the corporate values they share. “Viti is founded on solid cornerstones well familiar to the modus operandi of Carlo Salvi, where qualitative flawlessness, promptness of response and 360

training has also been organised both internally and by Carlo Salvi’s technicians, aimed at educating new hires and guaranteeing a constant level of quality within the production process.

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“We use Carlo Salvi’s whole range of header models, from the smallest to the largest machines in regards to the double strokes. In the last three years an additional investment has also been made in the shape of the two die and four blow models CS 243 and CS 246 E,” comments Stefano Ferrario, production technical director at Viti. “The goal is to open our doors to unexplored markets, enriching our production range with special, fully customised parts. Carlo Salvi machines enable us to do that with their simple and quick settings, as well as the quick-change kit, the consistency of the performance, durability and reliability.”

For ‘Chapter Four’ of our series highlighting ‘Carlo Salvi Stories’ – a series of articles celebrating business collaborations, successes and shared goals – we have an article focusing on how Carlo Salvi has helped Italian-based Viti Srl develop an increasingly ‘verticalised’ production process aimed at meeting the needs of every industry sector.

Thanks to the new combined machine CS 513 TH

carlosalvi.com

Sometimes take it easy! Sometimes make it easy!

Revolutionary concept for best solution and performance, in a better world.

・

The Measuring Division of Kaman Precision Products has announced the availability of its improved ThreadChecker™, a teachable eddy current inspection tool, widely used for thread detection, material sorting, plating presence, as well as the absence of heat treatment.

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

aman explains that this line of non-contact application specific sensors provides rugged, reliable verification of thread presence or absence in nearly any electrically conductive material. Any physical property difference that relates to

Kaman announces ThreadChecker™ with inspection capabilities

Modularity is at the core of the machine with the double spindles which is enabling two autonomous working areas.

Ask for more information to : info@hsautomazioni.it Tapping Machine With Four Spindles San Maurizio 184/17 Ph. +39 011

The T10-HC Automatic Tapping Machine is equipped with n.4 reversible spindles mechanically driven by lead screws with an output rate up to 200 pieces/minute Internal threads, within the range M2 to M10, can be executed using standard taps in both technologies, cutting and forming

HS ASPE will display the new tapping machine model T10-HC Come to see the demo at the Wire show

www.hsaspe.com NEW • T10-HC HS Automazioni s.r.l. Via

• 10073 CIRIE’ (TO) • ITALY

Precision in operation is achieved using a structurally rigid design of frame, along with the engineered and innovative design of the positioning/clamping devices. Orthogonality and concentricity in conjunction with other dimensional/geometrical features, are lifetime guaranteed.

9221825 • info@hsautomazioni.it Watch the T10-HC video NEW

Automatic

Flexibility is maximized with the possibility to work two geometrically different parts in completely independent processes.

With more than two decades of experience, he is now spreading his knowledge to bring innovative technologies. To get solutions to your testing related problems, share your queries at sanjay@pacorr.com

With such advancement, fastener producers or manufacturers of platings can ensure high-quality corrosion testing with technically advanced machinery, in a shorter period of time.

INSIGHT INTO TESTING METHODS FOR THE FASTENER SECTOR TESTING The role of high-end corrosion testing in fastener plating

A key factor in whether a fastener is able to provide the very best quality is its towardsresistancecorrosiveenvironments...”

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Pacorr’s salt spray chamber with HMI touchscreen is a high-end corrosion testing solution that brings the latest and next generation solution to salt spray testing and helps users in predicting the exact time period after which their coating, paint or plating will fail and the fastener will start to oxidise and corrode.

FastenersFEATUREareused

Sanjay Sharma is an expert author who has written many technical and informative articles related to salt spray chambers and corrosion test chambers. With his problem solving attitude, he has given solutions to many people on testing instruments. He has a vast knowledge of various national and international testing standards that are used to design testing machines. His main focus is on quality testing, quality assurance and testing equipment.

By Sanjay Sharma, director at Pacorr Testing Instruments Pvt Ltd

Ferroustouchscreen.fasteners or other metal products that are mixed with iron molecules are prone to corrosion. This becomes a big issue when fasteners are used in applications that are exposed to water, salt water, humidity, rain, air moisture, etc. To try and protect the fasteners they are often plated with a coating or painting. The oil-based paints prevent the moisture to enter inside and acts as a barrier between the water molecule and the metal surface. However, it depends on the quality of the plating and the fastener itself, in regards to how much exposure it can handle until the part starts to corrode. To plan for this scenario, it is necessary to carry out tests to predict the behaviour of a fastener under such a corrosive environment.

CORROSION + COATING THICKNESS TESTING

About the author

key factor in whether a fastener is able to provide the very best quality is its resistance towards corrosive environments, the most common type of quality drawback. In this article, we focus on how to improve the quality of fasteners by testing them with Pacorr’s salt spray chamber with HMI

as an important component in almost every machine and assembly, acting as the joints that bring connectivity. By keeping these fasteners strong, machines will perform better and for longer.

The salt spray chamber is able to run accelerated salt fog tests that help in evaluating potential year long results within just a few hours. Being equipped with an HMI touchscreen brings a lot of functionality to the salt spray tester. The user can easily set parameters, the test time and initiate the program. It also has auto-mode safety features that warns and also stops at any accidental situations. There is no need to attend the machine during tests as it comes with an automatic salt spray diffuser that is connected to a salt solution tank.

It’s crucially important for bolted joints to function safely and reliably. Therefore fastening technology must be continuously monitored and tested to eliminate the risk of recalls and additional costs. Kistler offers an extensive portfolio of test and analysis systems to analyze the functional characteristics of bolted joints and bolting tools.

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No matter what size – 100% reliability matters.

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In addition to the clip-on extensometer just described, there are other types of extensometer. The automatic motorised extensometer, mounted integrally with the tensile machine, consists of arms that measure the displacement simply by meeting the gauge length of the specimen to be tested. This system has the great advantage of allowing the test to be carried out more quickly than with clips, thanks to the automatic positioning of the gauge length and the automatic fixing to the specimen.Inrecent years, contactless video extensometers has also been developed, capable of recognising precise surface

All the extensometers described above are available from CERMAC , a company that thanks to its know-how is able to

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The modern extensometer consists of two grips that are fixed on the specimen to be tested at two points of the extensometer (L 0 ). During the test, the grips of the extensometer remain integral with these points and the extensometer detects the relative displacement ΔL in the range of a tenth of a micron – thanks to the use of sensors with high sensitivity such as strain gauges, LVDT (Linear Variable Displacement Transducer) or linear encoders.

references (e.g threads of a screw) of the sample and tracking their movements in ‘real time’. In addition to having the great advantage of allowing better productivity to the test laboratories, they are a tool capable of allowing the calculation of the yield strength even in the case of tests performed on pieces with variable section, such as screws or ribbed bars, which otherwise could be complex.

Finally, there are extensometers for use at high temperatures, where arms are used in ceramic material capable of withstanding temperatures even over 1,200°C.

install automatic electronic extensometers, clip-on, up to video measurement systems on its machines and on machines of any brand.

TESTING

t is simple and intuitive to understand how tensile strength can be obtained with a tensile test, but it is less obvious how the yield strength is obtained. Until the 1950s – 1960s the yield was calculated based on the tensile test graph, visually verifying the value of the R eH and the R eL and calculating the yield (R P0.2 ) by plotting the parallel to the elastic region on the graph.However, from the 1970s onwards, extensometers began to be used. The first extensometer was designed around the end of the nineteenth century and began to be commercialised on an industrial level only around the 1930s. These were fully mechanical extensometers that did not have great luck because they did not possess an acceptable level of accuracy and had high costs. Furthermore, as they presented inertia and friction, they did not allow measurements of dynamic deformations to be carried out. It was therefore necessary to wait for subsequent technological developments, especially in the electronics sector, which led to the creation of the modern extensometer.

Here Cesare Certini, owner of CERMAC Srl – an Italian testing machine manufacturer – focuses on yield strength measurements and the role, and development, of extensometers.

The role of extensometers

p0.2

In the case of low carbon steels there are two different yield values. As in Figure Two, these materials should begin to deform plastically starting from point P, but around the dislocations there are small interstitial atoms that interfere with their movement and for this reason the plastic deformation starts from Re H , called upper yieldOncepoint.this value has been reached, the dislocations begin to move and the deformation of the specimen can also occur under a stress lower than R eH . This R eL value is called the lower yield point. It should be emphasised that in the stretch from P to R eH the behaviour is elastic but does not follow Hooke’s law.

testing

This initial section (From O to P) in Figure One defines the plastic regime. By increasing the load the user will reach a value beyond which the specimen will no longer have an elastic behaviour but will begin to deform permanently, so if the load returns to zero the specimen will no longer have its initial size – this is when you enter the plastic regime.

Figure One

Figure Two

SMT Srl –

What is yield strength?

www.smtsrl.com

TESTING A σ=E∙ε

The yield point is therefore the stress by which you switch from the elastic to the plastic regime. Theoretically this value coincides with the point where the tensile test curve stops being a straight line. However, this value is not always easily identifiable and for this reason it was conventionally decided to assume as yield the value that involves a plastic deformation of 0.2%, corresponding to ε = 0.002 and relative to the beginning of the regime of largeThisdeformations.valueismarked with the symbol R p0.2 in Figure One and can be calculated by drawing a parallel to the elastic section of the curve and passing it through the point ε = 0.002 of the abscissa –the intercept between this line and the tensile test curve identifies the yield strength R p0.2 . The value of R p0.2 is normally required in the case of quenched and tempered steels, as in the case of classes 8.8, 10.9, 12.9 of the EN ISO 8981 standard or as in the case of grades B7 and B16 of the ASTM A193 standard and of grade L7 of the ASTM A320 standard. However, R p0.2 is not the only yield value required by the standards.

Here the independent laboratory and mechanical workshop – focuses on yield strength and how there are different yield values that are required by different standards.

The standards provide for these two yield values. For example, the standard EN 10025-2 – hot rolled products of structural steels, requires the upper yield point, while the EN ISO 898-1 standard requires the lower yield point for classes 4.8, 5.8 and 6.8.

tensile test allows an operator to obtain a variety of different values and among them the yield strength, the topic of this article. When a specimen is subjected to a tensile test up to a certain load, its behaviour is elastic. This means that if the load returns to zero, the specimen returns to its initial size without any deformation. In fact, in the first part of the traction curve the trend is linear and follows Hooke’s law:

Several years ago, I was given the honour of serving as the president of my trade association –the Specialty Tool and Fastener Distributors Association (STAFDA) based in the USA. One of the long-standing traditions is to give the president a small statue depicting ‘The Peddler’.

SYSTEM DEVELOPMENTS AFFECTING THE FASTENER SECTOR

magine an older gentleman with a knapsack and walking stick wandering around and peddling his wares from town to town. Obviously, the profession has grown from these humble beginnings, but our current crop of ‘peddlers’ still retain some characteristics of the gentleman salesperson. They often wander from office to office, site to site, looking for an opportunity to share their goods with prospective customers. The peddlers of yesteryear were responsible for the entire transaction, from presentation to fulfillment, to the ultimate collection of payment. Our sophistication of these steps may have improved, but many modern day peddlers continue to take on these aspects of the sales completion process. Is this really how we want to deploy our most expensive assets?

MANAGEMENT + SYSTEMS

When a salesperson performs all, or many of these functions, their ability to serve multiple customers is severely limited. We often see this type of salesperson

By Jason Bader, principle, The Distribution Team

We often see this type of salesperson relying on a touchamountmodestofhighcustomers that they have cultivated over the years. They literally put all of their eggs in very few baskets.”

From peddler to prospector: The changing role of outside sales

As I was growing up in the business, I saw how this outside sales position was lauded as the most important function in the organisation. This was the pinnacle position and with it came the most financial reward. This lofty compensation was not entirely unjustified. Sales reps were often responsible for finding the prospect; getting that prospect to sign an application for credit; enticing the customer to place that first order; pricing the invoice accordingly; and in many cases, they also delivered the recently fulfilled order. That is a lot of effort for the modest gross margin built into these transactions. You might even have a few salespeople that still operate in this manner. The problem with this model is the limitation of time.

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COMING 2023INUPDATEDUPGRADEDENHANCED

Another severe limitation to the income generating potential of a legacy sales representative is their access to information. I will freely admit that modern technology has allowed the field sales representative access to pricing and availability of products. Unfortunately, they rarely have access to scheduling and the logistical capabilities of the operations team. Without this critical information, there is a tendency to overcommit resources and they find themselves having to mend fences when service promises are not met. If you want to provide reliable service, commitments need to come from those closest to the operation. A strong inside customer service team can help fill this

Ifrole.we

relying on a modest amount of high touch customers that they have cultivated over the years. They literally put all of their eggs in very few baskets. If one of those customers leaves the fold for one reason or another, the salesperson and company will take a tremendous whack to their revenue. This is why most organisations become extremely nervous if any one of their customers accounts for greater than 20% of the income. You just never know what the future holds in the lifecycle of your best customer.

MANAGEMENT + SYSTEMS 136 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

are going to shift more responsibilities to the inside, what are the field salespeople going to do? They are going to do what they were born to do – create opportunities in the market. When I look at those personalities who have been most successful in the field, I see some basic commonalities. Field salespeople have the ability to make customers comfortable with a business transaction. They build trust through question and answer; they listen for pain points and share solutions; they generate interest and excitement in the products we have chosen to represent; they know how to persevere in the face of rejection; and they know how to hustle. There is a direct correlation between the number of faces a field salesperson gets in front of and the amount of order activity they can generate. So why do we burden them with mundane, detail oriented, non-revenue generating tasks that simply slow them down?

In my opinion, field salespeople should concentrate on four basic tasks – opening new accounts, introducing the breadth of product, performing field demonstrations when necessary, and solving problems when they arise. As an incentive to hunt for new accounts, I like to see clients create a two tier commission structure. For the

If we refocus our attention on how to make our field salespeople nimbler, they will be able to generate more excitement in the market. Because of their strong interpersonal skills, we still want them to be there when conflicts arise. Instinctively, they can work through the challenge and find solutions. They are the representatives of our company brand. The best use of their time is to keep charging down the field and planting flags. If your company is bogged down in the peddler mentality, find ways to remove that cumbersome knapsack, and hand your associate a pickaxe. It’s time to quit peddling and let them start doing some real prospecting.

If we are going to shift more responsibilities to the inside, what are the field salespeople going to do? They are going to do what they were born to do –create opportunities in the market.”

About the author

Jason Bader is a holistic distribution advisor who is passionate about helping business owners solve challenges, generate wealth and achieve personal goals. He can be found speaking at several industry events throughout the year, providing executive coaching services to private clients and letting his thoughts be known in an industry publication or two. Last year, he launched his first podcast, Distribution Talk. Episodes can be found at www.distributiontalk.com and most podcast applications. He can be reached via email at jason@distributionteam.com

first 12 months of new customer relationships, pay the field sales representative a higher than average commission rate. This is to compensate them for ramp up and to give them a reason to drive the new customers into several product categories. After 12 months, the relationship will have naturally shifted to our inside team. At this point, I advocate a small ‘legacy’ commission rate because we still want the field salesperson to solve problems. Imagine 15% for the high and 3% for the low. I would use the commission savings to shift some money to the inside team for their efforts. We still want the customer to stay with us and it would be great if we could continue to expand their product category participation.

I have spoken with countless sales managers and field sales personnel over the years, and they all agree that the old model has to change. I hear this all the time: ‘How do I get my people to call on new accounts?’ There are a couple of ways to approach this problem. First, change the expectations of the field sales role. Second, change the compensation to reward new account generation.

Many of us who have been around distribution sales for a few years admit that the majority of the transactional work associated with a legacy account is performed by someone working inside the four walls of our company. They take the phone calls, create the order, hopefully ask for a few additional accessory items and schedule the delivery or pick up. Over time, the customer will often develop a stronger relationship with their inside contact than their outside representation. It is not anything negative about the field salesperson, it is simply a matter of frequency of interaction.

anbanservis.cz info@kanbanservis.cz+420465520555 Sokolska 226, Kerhartice 562 04 Usti nad Orlici, Czech Republic We offer a screwsofrangecompletechipboard 26 years of experience in the ﬁeld of fasteners WT WINTECH a.s . ww w.wtwintech.e export@wtwintech.eu u +420 739 002 39 0 CMYCYMYCMYMCK mayes warwick quarter page-2018-outlines.pdf 1 25/01/2018

be adequate in some situations, consumer devices could present additional repair costs.

Mobile devices in a warehouse: Consumer versus rugged

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A consumer enterprise mobile device is a smartphone, tablet, or other electronic handheld that is used for business, but can also serve as a personal device. An example would be a personal smartphone that a manager also uses for business purposes, such as looking up inventory data or pulling sales reports. A rugged enterprise mobile device is a smartphone, tablet, or mobile that is built with the rigors of commercial use in mind.

Rugged devices are also built with longer battery power whilst consumer devices can’t compete on a single charge and don’t have the option of a swappable battery pack. For mobile devices to remain in service for a full shift, you need two things – a battery with the capacity to last and a removable battery that can be swapped –instead of taking the device out of service for charging.

Consumer devices are cheaper, it’s true, which is why many companies stick with them, despite all the advantages of more rugged devices. But what companies fail to take into account is the fail rates; repair and replacement costs; and ‘soft costs’ such as lost productivity and sales, time spent on tech support, and device maintenance against a rugged device. While consumer devices might be cheaper in the short term, purchasing rugged mobile handhelds for all warehouse needs could save businesses thousands of pounds in the long run.

For businesses using mid-range Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), with small to medium sized warehouses, finding the best mobile device – whether it be rugged devices or consumer – can be quite a challenge. Here, UK-based ClarusWMS outlines the differences between the two and how choosing the right device will maximise productivity.

he mobile device chosen, whether it be consumer or rugged, will determine the return on investment in a mobility strategy. If the wrong device is selected, this could result in frustrated users, decreased productivity, increased costs and potentially introduce safety risks. However, the right device will not only maximise productivity, but also the efficiency and accuracy with the tasks at hand – in combination with a WMS.

Lastly, most consumer devices can’t handle the requirements of high volume applications. Ruggedised devices have faster, more accurate barcode scanners; longer battery life; support for multiple wireless networking options; screens that can be read easily in both daylight and dark conditions; enterprise level security features; and additional options to support RFID scanning, GPS and otherFortechnologies.fastpaced, time critical applications, a camera scanner simply does not perform accurately and fast enough – decreasing worker productivity. Consumer devices simply can’t compete because they were designed for much lighter usage and different applications.

ClarusWMS is a UK-based supplier of Warehouse Management Solutions with a wealth of industry experience in third party logistics, wholesale distribution, online fulfilment and manufacturing warehousing.

MOBILE TECHNOLOGY FEATURE

Ruggedised devices are tested to withstand shock, vibration, drops to concrete floors, and exposure to dirt, dust, moisture and chemicals. They are less likely to fail in commercial environments than a consumer device that relies mainly on third party protection, such as screen shields and cases. While these may

But what are the main differences between consumer and rugged devices? A disadvantage of consumer mobile devices is that the operating systems such as Android and iOS, for example, may not include the business extensions and APIs required, resulting in manually installing additional components on every potential device. A rugged enterprise mobile device, on the other hand, could provide a single build – designed specifically for all mobile system needs. Ruggedised devices also include support for most Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions, whilst consumer devices can include security features that make it difficult to centrally provision certainWithapplications.regardsto security and safety, consumer device mobile solutions also have flaws when it comes to security as they rely on each individual user to safeguard the proprietary information being accessed and utilised through the device – potentially putting a business at risk. On the flip side, a rugged mobile device is typically designed with enterprise level security in mind. Multiple users and logins are easy to implement. They’ll also be less susceptible to hijacking, viruses and other forms of data theft. Rugged devices can also provide extra levels of safety in hazardous areas, such as volatile chemicals. Consumer grade devices are often not even permitted anywhere near these areas.

www.fastenerandfixing.com/podcast Listen to our latest podcast where we interview industry experts on the current situation regarding freight and raw material prices – crucial topics impacting all fastener companies. FREIGHT AND RAW MATERIAL PODCAST Listen to the latest episode here...

In order to keep track of stock in individual bins, iSHELF® can be used. If a bin is empty, the integrated shelves directly detect it

Through its highly flexible Kanban system, Würth can provide an automated warehouse and production management solution, CPS® C-Product Service, which with the use of RFID technology, can execute transparent inventory overview and control.

OGL Software continues focus on ERP

Following the announcement that telecoms and technology company Wavenet Ltd has acquired OGL Computer Support Holdings Limited and two of its subsidiaries, it has also been announced OGL Software Limited – supplier to the fastener and fixing industry – will breakaway to become an independent business focusing on core ERP business and supporting future growth plans.

FID enables radio controlled data transmission directly from the customer’s production to the central warehouse of Würth Industrie Service GmbH & Co KG. The small sized bins W-KLT® 2.0 S are designed with the needs of the workplace in mind and aim to ensure a more efficient process design for individual workstations. For batch traceability, the pre-picked small sized bins have an additional label, including master data such as item description, as well as their own RFID tag. This makes it possible to control consumption at the workplace and track the contents of the bins to the actual place of use.

shelf. The shelf then reads the RFID chip and transfers the information about the empty bin directly to the in-house Kanban Management System (KMS) at Würth.

W-KLT® 2.0 4315 has a loading capacity of ten small sized bins and W-KLT® 2.0 4115 can store four small sized bins in total. A system administrator of Würth fills the bins in the racks directly at the customer’s location. Reordering is done automatically via RFID based Kanban processing – by placing the RFID enabled mother bin at the top level of the Kanban rack.

In the near future, a customer specific label containing additional information on the customer’s storage location and rack level is also conceivable to reduce the search times on the rack. While the employees previously filled their own bins manually at the storage location, the C-parts partner will be able to provide a pre-defined quantity with the small sized bins defined as returnable packaging, thus eliminating the need to pick up bins at the customer’s site. The small sized bins are integrated into the mother bin W-KLT® 2.0 for shipping to the customer.

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ebbie Barton, chief executive officer of OGL Software, explains: “The acquisition will enable us to continue to grow our highly successful OGL Software business. Our products, services and markets have diversified so much that we felt there was greater opportunity to realise our ambitious growth plans if we gave each division its own space to expand. But it was important that we found the right way to do that for all three divisions, so when Wavenet approached us about the IT Services and Cyber Security part of the business, it presented the perfect solution.”

Optimising storage space

“OGL Software is now one of the leading ERP solutions for stockists, distributors and wholesalers across the UK. We have ambitious growth plans to further secure our position in the market and this new independence will give us the space and opportunity to really focus on our core business. Our software customers will receive the same first class, personal service that they are used to and we will continue to recommend OGL Computer Support and CyberGuard Technologies to our customers for IT and cyber security services,” adds Sharon Moreno, head of operations at OGL Software.

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Gantrexperformance.hasmodernised the industrial rail fastening industry with a soft mounted solution minimising the stresses imposed on the structure, centring the loads on both the structure, and railhead, and eliminating the uplift forces on the clips using a rubber nose.

In the 1970s Gantrex was leading the charge in modernising rail fastening solutions with soft mounted rails. Here, Steve Nikolayev, CX manager ports at Gantrex Group, looks at the history of the rail fastener and how the Group is continuing to innovate and solve customers’ problems by coming up with bespoke solutions.

then hit the clips with a hammer to ensure they engaged with the rail – only then could the specified torque from the data sheets be applied. Failure to follow the installation instructions would result in the clips not engaging with the rail and the rail moving in the latter direction, which would cause pad creep and pad failure in due course.

FASTENING SOLUTIONS FOR ALL INDUSTRIES APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

n the 1970s rails were mounted directly on the steel girders with steel-on-steel clamps or J-bolts, which caused excessive stress, as well as wear and tear on the girders. The patented solution at the time was to mount the rails on a rubber pad and use rubber nosed clips to eliminate uplift forces imposed on the clips by the rail through a bow wave. A bow wave is formed in the rail as the heavy crane moves on top of the rail, pushing the rail under the crane wheel down while slightly lifting the rail on either side of the wheel. The clips were secured in the lateral direction against the rail ensuring a proper alignment of the rail system is maintained.

The latest Gantrex clip innovation, the RailLok TM series clips, launched in the late 2000s, solves the installation dilemma with a patented Active Contact feature, which ensures that the clips are properly installed with the use of a pneumatic wrench – no longer requiring a hammer hit, which significantly reduces the installation time of each clip.

The Active Contact feature is incorporated within the attack angle of the bolt, as the bolt is tightened the attack angle shifts slightly towards the rail pushing the clip into the rail and locking it in place. All the installer needs to do is to push the clip against the rail and tighten the bolt using a pneumatic wrench, the RailLok TM clip will take care of the rest.

Click here to see more about the

Installing the first generation of clips was quite cumbersome, an installer had to first push the clips against the rail, tighten the bolts,

The addition of the Active Contact feature also substantially increases the stability of the clips in dynamic applications – where cyclical lateral forces are applied on the clips. Solving for dynamic stability was extremely important within the industry as modern design tools allowed for crane designers to increase the load capacity and the speed of the crane while minimising the amount of material used to build the cranes, essentially building more flexible cranes that imposed larger dynamic loads on the rail system. In the RailLok TM design, when a lateral force is applied on the clips it pushes against both the lateral wedge and the wedge formed on the clip bolt, which minimises slippage of the clip away from the rail. The previous generation of clips were pushed away from the rail over time, which required an intervention to reinstall the clips against the rail for proper clip

142 FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

The clips were also designed with a wedge in the lateral direction ensuring they remain in place and are naturally tightened when a lateral force is applied on the rail. The addition of a pad under the rail distributed the load more evenly over the centerline of the girder – minimising the stresses on the girder web. It also eliminated fretting corrosion on the top of the girder – as the rail moved in the longitudinal direction and allowed for a better stress distribution between the crane wheel and railhead – prolonging the lifecycle of the rail.Two types of clips were developed – a boltable and a weldable clip. The boltable clip consisted of a cam and a clip body. The cam, a specially designed washer, allowed for lateral adjustability of the clip. When installed with a bolt through the girder the cam locked the clip in place and ensured no slippage was allowed. A weldable clip consisted of a weldable lower that was welded to the steel girder and an upper that was bolted to the lower. Special grooves were designed within the body of the lower component to hold conehead and hex bolts. The benefit of using a lower component was the allowance of all work to be preformed from the top of the girder when the installers were installing the rail at height. The lower components of the clips would normally be pre-welded in the shop to the girders – easing the installation of the rail system on-site.

Getting on track with Gantrex

RailLok™Gantrex®clip

RAIL FEATURE

ABRITISHCOMPANYwww.wti-fasteners.co.uk For further information contact: Helpline: 01530 416888 Email: sales@wti-fasteners.co.uk 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. FM 28879 AS9100 Rev D and ISO 9001:2008 • BS7751 • BS7752 • MA/MS standards • DIN 8140 Fully traceable product. OnlineStandardButProductSTANDARD LISTED - YOU KNOW WHO’S BEST BUT CONTACT US FOR ALL THE REST... 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 Tel: +44 (0) 117-972 8560 Fax: +44 (0) 117-972 Unitwww.avonstainlessfasteners.co.uksales@avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk857010,RiversideBusinessPark,StAnne’s, Bristol, BS4 4ED Everyday Specialinsert® stands by railway passengers and employees, guaranteeing their comfort and safety on board. We design and develop deformation threaded or self-locking inserts, quick release fastening systems, and self-tapping bushes for the railway sector, also customized solutions. Innovative fasteners for every design requirement. Contact our specialists to ﬁnd the right product for your needs. specialinsert.it - export@specialinsert.it Proudly Made In Italy FASTENERS FOR THE RAILWAY INDUSTRY Italian quality since 1974

Nord-Lock Group recently partnered with Revotec and provided its Superbolt Load-Sensing Tensioner (LST) to help the monitoring of pre-loads and the impact of aerodynamic loads on railway noise barriers.

144 RAIL FEATURE Click

such as Joachim Muik – who was assigned to a four year research project developing two prototype solutions for preload detection on bolts, the REVO m-Bolt and REVO e-Bolt,” points out Michael.

APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY FASTENER + FIXING MAGAZINE ≡ ISSUE 137: SEPTEMBER 2022

After some conversations – and a knowledge sharing meet at Nord-Lock Group’s office in Lauchheim, Germany – the two parties agreed to tackle ÖBB’s problem together. At first Joachim was surprised that Superbolt LST didn’t look like a conventional nut, but he quickly saw the benefit upon installation.

How can smart products redefine bolt maintenance?

The future of preload monitoring

R here to watch an

Aerodynamic load is the force acting on noise barriers when trains pass, with its amplitude depending on the train speed, shape, height of the barrier and its distance from the track axis. It’s a pressure wave that forms a maximum amplitude in fractions of a second, creating a shock load that results in fatigue damage to the noise barrier’s steel Unfortunately,structure.therising speed of trains during the early 2000s has exaggerated this issue. “Below 160km/h you don’t really get problems, but German and Austrian trains now regularly exceed this speed, with some even surpassing 300km/h,” mentions Michael. “Noise barriers have also been heightened to six or seven metres, multiplying the impact of dynamic vibrations.”

Superbolt Multi-Jackbolt Tensioners (MJTs) take high preload requirements and break them down into manageable torques, using the jackbolts threaded through the nut body. For example, to tighten a regular M16 bolt to 80kN of preload there needs to be 200Nm of torque. “With the Superbolt LST it was only 12Nm on each jackbolt,” points out Joachim. “This meant I could stand on a ladder and work in tight spaces.”

The main challenge Revotec faced was the ability to continuously monitor preload force in the fastening elements. “At Revotec we employ a small team of graduate mechanical, electrical and civil engineers,

evotec is an international consultancy with expertise in the field of structural dynamics and structural health monitoring. Since 2014, the company has been developing smart products for engineering structures. “We have developed a reputation for analysing vibrations and preventing fatigue damage,” explains Michael Reiter, co-founder at Revotec ZT GmbH. “We use software to make dynamic calculations and evaluate the impact of, for example, vibrations of railway bridges due to train crossing.”

Research and development

Was there a solution already out there?

Revotec’s core business is consultancy, so as much as Michael has a thirst for innovation, he would never compromise finding the right partner to collaborate. Thanks to a connection with Thomas Schardax, Nord-Lock Group sales engineer in Austria, Michael learnt of the Superbolt Load-Sensing Tensioner (LST) – Nord-Lock Group’s Industry 4.0 solution for continuous preload monitoring.

Whilst installation is simple, the main innovation is how smart technologies completed this project. Pierre Kellner, Nord-Lock Group’s business developer for smart products, along with colleague Damien Thomas in Lyon, France, and partner Lisab from Gothenburg, Sweden,

Joachim found the continuous monitoring that ÖBB was looking for to be a particular challenge. “There’s a huge amount of knowledge behind engineering a nut or bolt that can actually measure the preload force, but it’s way more difficult to connect the internet to that bolt,” explained Joachim.

This capability resulted in a contract with the Austrian national railway company ÖBB in 2016, with Revotec tasked to investigate the impact of aerodynamic loads on the railway’s noise barriers. “The company wanted to know how fasteners are affected when trains pass at high-speed; how the service life of fastening elements change when preload force is lost; and is it possible to continuously monitor preload in those fasteners?” comments Michael.

withinterviewRevotec

afety in the rail industry is of course paramount, and service technicians are fully aware of the implications should any component, right down to the smallest of fasteners, be installed or assembled incorrectly.

Once installed, the Superbolt LST provides an accurate, remote and continuous preload reading that can be viewed from a web interface, anywhere in the world. “Using this technology, we can set trigger levels that automatically inform clients when preload has fallen below a predefined limit,” explains Michael. “We also detected a loss in preload within 72 hours of the first tightening, then another loss of preload after 1 year of monitoring.”

With this information, Superbolt LST users like ÖBB can set the optimal intervals for retightening and bolt maintenance, invaluable information for a company such as Revotec that specialises in helping clients to avoid fatigue damage in their infrastructure.

Looking forward, Michael believes that predictive maintenance will become more and more important for industrial and infrastructure companies. “Part of Revotec’s vision is that data recording can be done without any cables or a power supply, instead the train itself records the data of all smart products along the railway tracks and feeds a central database for train operators to plan maintenance schedules.”

supported Joachim through the first installation via a remote live stream at their desks, hundreds of kilometres away.

“Despite travel restrictions, Joachim’s Microsoft HoloLens smart glasses gave us an Augmented Reality view so that we could ‘be there’ with Joachim in the field. He’d never installed a Superbolt MJT before, let alone our smart solutions, but with this connection we could be ‘his eyes’, freeing his hands to do the work. Recording everything also gets rid of the need to take notes,” explains Pierre.

Irish Rail safely secured Nord-Lockwithwashers

Joachim adds: “The opportunities are endless, it doesn’t matter if it’s a noise barrier with simple fasteners or a high-level application like a turbine or pressured applications – this technology can be applied everywhere. I think, in the same way we’re now connecting to home applications such as TVs, heating, and vacuum cleaners, industries will do the same thing with remote connections to critical components. It makes life easier not having to be there and at the same time achieves greater control over maintenance.”

Click here to see how Nord-Lock’s washers are used on Irish Rail

The Superbolt LST in situ

Those wire locks were replaced with Nord-Lock wedge-locking washers on the entire fleet of more than two hundred cars. It’s easier to install, so there’s a cost saving, but the wheel shop also benefitted from a safer, more reliable and repeatable process.

www.nord-lock.com

At Irish Rail’s wheel shop, every wheelset has its own serial number and workbook, so that servicing is meticulous and has full traceability. With one model that originally came installed with a wire locking mechanism, technicians realised that vibration through the axle box had been causing bolts to loosen during service.

The potential for digital tools in industry

“Since the introduction of the Nord-Lock washers we have not had one instance of a bolt coming loose, which gives us a lot of comfort from a safety point of view,” said Conor Doyle, senior fleet technical support at Irish Rail.

Pierre Kellner and the Superbolt LST dashboard

As trains and railway networks become more advanced, so do the demands on rail lines and train parts. When a train is travelling at over 300km/h, the whole carriage is rattled with constant vibration and strain, creating a host of challenges.

When Irish Rail noticed the bolts on its axle boxes were loosening due to vibration, it replaced the locking-wire mechanism on the wheel sets with Nord-Lock washers.

B Ayazmadere Cad. Pazar Sk. Bareli Plaza No; CERTIFICATE Quality assurance System for Material Manufacturer AD 2000 Approved: QA System acc. to AD 2000 Merkblatt W0 Audit report no.: QS TUVNORD 2020/742 Scope of approval: Valid until: RAIL FEATURE

HALCO hook & loop used in new fleet of diesel trains

Jane Fisher, transition and projects director for West Midlands Railway, explains: “These smart, modern trains will boost capacity across our network and come with features such as under floor heating and extra luggage space, which I am certain will prove popular with passengers.”

The Class 196 units and their improved seating form part of an investment package by the train operator to improve services across the network. This includes an GB£800 million (€924.7 million) investment in new and refurbished trains – providing 20,000 extra seats for rush hour passengers in Birmingham and standing room for 50,000 more commuters in new, metro style carriages.

HALCO Europe Ltd is supporting UK-based West Midlands Trains with integral seating components on a fleet of brand new Class 196 trains.

Customer experience has been at the heart of the design process, with a particular emphasis placed on the comfort and configuration of new saloon seats. The Class 196 units have additional capacity compared to existing West Midlands Trains regional fleets. The final design scheme allows improved seat pitch and window views in all positions. Additionally, passengers will all have access to a USB point or a plug socket and every seat in standard or priority positions will have either a seat-back or fixed table. The cantilever design of the seats will also improve cleanliness and allow luggage to be stored underneath more easily.

APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

ack in 2019, West Midlands Railway ordered a total of 26 brand new diesel trains – known in the rail industry as Class 196s – as part of a huge investment in the region’s railway network. Despite delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic, both on the manufacturing and testing processes, and on driver training, the trains were progressively introduced into service in mid-2021.

HALCO adhesive backed hook & loop has been an integral component in the railway seating, its aggressive rubber-based adhesive making it ideal for use on smooth surfaces in seating applications. HALCO PRO adhesive hook & loop has an immediate high strength bond, with high temperature resistance and outstanding peel and shear strength, combined with premium grade yarn used in the hook & loop components, providing up to 5,000 open/close cycles.

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Egypt plans additional massive investments in its rail network over the next few years including, in particular, the establishment of a high-speed network, which is to be expanded to over 1,800km.

n August 2021, Camfaud was engaged on the HS2 critical path project. The project was facing the prospect of programme delays unless a solution was found in relation to pouring the tunnel invert at the site in West London. The Camfaud method was to install a pipeline and a specialist concrete pump.

In order to satisfy health and safety requirements, specialist brackets were required to hold the pipeline in place within the 9m diameter tunnel. Each bracket was secured with four Excalibur screwbolts. The initial target distance was 600m. Phase one of the project incorporates the development of the high-speed railway line from London to the West Midlands and incorporates civil assets, such as tunnels, viaducts and cuttings, stations and railway systems.

Vossloh, a provider of products and services related to rail infrastructure, has secured an economically and strategically important contract to deliver rail fastening systems for a new high-speed line in northern Egypt.

Approximately 400 Excalibur M16 100mm HSB screwbolts have been successfully deployed on the high profile HS2 project, by Camfaud Concrete Pumps Ltd, to fix the concrete pumping pipework.

he Barcelona Rail metro has twelve lines, 180 stations, more than 140 trains running at peak times on working days and caters for 465 million yearly passengers. Therefore in-track trials have been conducted using low profile Delkor Egg baseplates from Delkor Rail, which are designed specifically to deliver high vibration and noise attenuation. Measurements before and after the Delkor Eggs were installed showed a reduction in vibration levels.

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Due to the nature of the project, and distances involved, the situation required no ordinary pipeline with the high pressure pipeline chosen is only used in a small percentage of jobs. The high pressure allows the dense concrete to be pumped a further distance – with significant forces being generated by the pumping process. For this reason, it was vitally important to anchor the pipeline effectively; this would also ensure couplings stayed together and the entire structure remained safe. The Camfaud method was to utilise one bracket every other pipe, with each bracket being secured by four Excalibur screwbolts.

RAIL FEATURE RAIL FEATURE RAIL FEATURE

Delkor Rail’s range of Egg baseplates are available in a variety of standard sizes that can be customised and adapted to suit specific fastening systems and operational requirements.

Delivery of the rail fastening systems by Vossloh is scheduled to begin this year, with completion of the project expected in the course of 2024. The order, with a volume exceeding €40 million, will be carried out by subsidiary Vossloh Fastening Systems GmbH, which is headquartered in Werdohl, Germany.

s commissioned by the end customer, state owned company National Authority for Tunnels (NAT), the coastal city of El Alamein will be connected to the city of Ain Sokhna, which is located on the Suez Canal. A high-speed line is also planned between El Alamein and Mersa Matruh, which means the double track line will be approximately 660km long.

Excalibur speeds up HS2

“The Delkor Egg is a durable and highly resilient rail fastener for high vibration and noise attenuation. It is simple, reliable and maintenance free, which has been derived and developed from the original Cologne Egg design hatched in the 1970s,” explains Delkor Rail.

The rail fastener ensures optimum vibration and structure-borne noise reduction by providing six degrees of rail movement – provided by the rubber element, which supports the top plate holding the rail. Due to the very low dynamic to static stiffness ratio that the Egg provides it achieves a high degree of vibration and secondary noise attenuation.

“The new rail line will be designed for speeds of up to 250km/h. It will shorten the travel times for millions of people by up to 50% while producing more than 70% fewer carbon emissions than road traffic. We are delighted to be able to make a substantial contribution to this landmark project in this region,” says Jan Furnivall, executive board member of Vossloh AG. “Our extensive experience with the equipment of high-speed lines will allow us to create significant value for our customers.”

Delkor Egg baseplates used in Spain

While the population growth remains steady, the metropolitan area of Barcelona, Spain, continues to expand. With a major proportion of the existing metro travelling underneath the city in tunnels, the excessive vibration was recently identified as an ongoing issue with certain lines.

As the fixation components only pass through the base frame, which is isolated from the top plate by the rubber element, these fixation components are not subject to any loadings that could cause fatigue failures and maintenance issues over a period of time.

Vossloh supplies rail fastening systems for high-speed line in Egypt

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“Here we ensure very favourable production processes with very short cycle times. For example, inserting a pin into a car’s parcel shelf is up to ten times faster compared to other processes. The fact that no pre-drilling is usually necessary also reduces effort, time and

APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

costs,” points out Christian Busch, business development manager MultiMaterial-Welding® Bossard Group.

With MultiMaterial-Welding® technology, the specially developed polymer fastener, liquefied by ultrasound, flows through the top core and towards the bottom layer where it solidifies to anchor in position. Thus, forming a secure mechanical lock within the entire structure, which is also permanent and resilient.

MultiMaterial-Welding® – a future oriented fastening solution

Processing plastics in the same way as normal sheet metal, inserting solid elements into foam and much more. There seems to be virtually no limits to the developments in lightweight construction. “MultiMaterial-Welding® solutions, which allows the secure and permanent joining of porous materials are in great demand on the market and across all industries,” says Matthias Mitter.

To date there are six fastening products readily available including the LiteWWeight® Pin – for fast and strong fixation on sandwich structures with internal honeycomb structures or similar patterns; LiteWWeight® Lotus – a fast and secure joining concept for fibre components and textile structures; LiteWWeight® zEPP – the standard solution for a wide EPP sealing spectrum; LiteWWeight® Double Pin – for joining lightweight sandwich panels made of aramid, polypropylene and more, also for securely attaching a thread; InWWerse® Fastener – ideal for thermoplastics with or without reinforcement; and the InWWerse® Disc – for fast and secure joining of conventional, non-weldable plastic components.

Based on a technology that has been known for many years, MM-Welding® provides a portfolio of cutting-edge fastening solutions by using ultrasonic energy to trigger the partial liquefaction of thermoplastic materials. By doing so it opens a world of possibilities never before imagined in multiple industries, especially in lightweight construction where there is a demand for even lighter assemblies.

atthias Mitter, category manager welding at Bossard Group, explains: “Speed, resilience and high cost awareness are three of many criteria with which MM-Welding® technologies score in joining technology. After all, lightweight materials such as porous fibre composites or sandwich panels (so called honeycomb core boards) make it difficult to either join them together or attach a fixed assembly or joining element to them. Unlike compact materials, where conventional connections are in use, it is far more difficult to anchor a screw, for example, in a sandwich construction – due to its honeycomb structure, among other things.”

PRODUCTS + tools

EVERWIN states its newest framing coil nailer, FCN90LB, is answering the demands of modern users –with it being light enough for decking, powerful enough for framing, as well as precise enough for siding.

Specifically compatible with collated screw nails, the FCN90LB provides a solution to decking repairs and promotes a stronger fastener holding force. The tool also features a tool-free depth adjustment to drive nails to desired configuration.

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www.kinfast.com

New screw driving system for collated fasteners

The combo kits include the PRO300SG2 and PRO200SG2 Quik Drive® attachments, both equipped with a 2,000rpm, 20V brushless DEWALT ® cordless DCF624 driver motor and G3 lightweight extension. Simpson points out the new kits will also include two 5 Amp hour lithium ion batteries, a battery charger, screw quiver and a protective soft case.

COLLATED FASTENERS, NAILERS, STAPLERS

A collatedprofessionalpartner

VERWIN Pneumatic believes the FCN90LB’s growing popularity is thanks to its versatility and innovation. “Weighing only 3kg, the FCN90LB is 26% lighter in weight than other models in its class – making it the ideal tool for overhead work,” explains EVERWIN.

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“With this next generation Quik Drive® combo kit, users can offer enhanced industrial design and ergonomics along with reliability and reduced user fatigue,” explains Brandon Ward, fastening systems product manager for Simpson Strong-Tie. “Designed for easy stand up driving, the Quik Drive® Cordless PROCCS+ lets contractors drive more screws per battery charge than ever before.”

COLLATED FASTENERS, NAILERS, STAPLERS + SYSTEMS FEATURE

Kinfast Hardware (Shenzen) Ltd is also able to supply collated drywall self-drilling screws, which can be used to fasten plasterboard to timber. The collated screw strip is designed to work quickly and effectively with collated autofeed guns – enabling users to hang drywall faster and with minimal force, as less force is needed to drive the screws in.

“Our screws are strictly controlled and inspected during production and before assembling, to make sure they work well,” comments Kinfast. “Making products with consistent high-quality requires good process control techniques combined with advanced equipment. That is why we have advanced inspection measuring and testing equipment in-house to qualify all incoming raw materials, while our modern metrology laboratory ensures that all parts meet exact specifications.”

Working together with a European research and development team, Kinfast has the skill and innovative vision to consistently make high-quality products – such as its collated drywall self-drilling screws.

infast’s collated screws are held together with a durable plastic strip that has been designed to fit perfectly into auto-feed screw guns –making them suitable for all leading brands, including Hilti, DEWALT®, Makita, SENCO and Festool.

EVERWIN’s light 90mm coil framing nailer

Designed for both wire and plastic collated nails, the FCN90LB also features EVERWIN’s patented ‘Precision Nailing Technology’, which aims to minimise formation of driver marks – giving the exterior of houses a much cleaner finish. The contact tip is also designed much slimmer compared to conventional tools, giving the user a clearer line of sight.

Simpson Strong-Tie has introduced the Quik Drive® Cordless PROCCS+ Multi-Purpose Combo System – a lightweight, cordless version of its Quik Drive® auto feed screw driving system for collated fasteners.

esigned for applications in decking, underlayment, and subflooring, this new product improves speed, reliability, and user comfort, and offers a reliable drive with fewer kick outs – delivering the same durability and dependability as its corded system. Combining new advancements in battery technology, with low torque fastener designs, the Quik Drive® Cordless drives approximately 1,200 two inch screws per full battery charge. Eliminating electrical cords reduces setup time and removes tripping hazards. The kit also comes with two power packs, allowing for battery swapping on the jobsite. The product features quick loading collated screw strips, precise countersink adjustment and the Quik Drive® auto advance mechanism.

THE LAtest product and technology developments

SAFE HOLDER

BT-20 PROFESSIONAL BATTERY RIVETER

High

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RELIABILITY & RESISTANCE

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speed for the most demanding applications.

From Ø2,4 mm Standard rivets to Ø6,5 mm Hardlock, G-BRA, Hardgrip, Structural rivets and Ø7,8 mm S-Trebol rivets.

Cut the cord with SENCO Fusion

The tool also boasts an impressive runtime with the ability to drive 2,000 nails per charge to help maximise uninterrupted work time. For jobsite efficiency, the low nail lockout system with LED indicator informs users when it is time to reload and, in addition, this pin nailer features a tool-free jam release that helps to reduce downtime by quickly clearing jams, as well as tool-free depth adjust for precise nail placement.

SENCO’s Fusion F-35XP framing nailer combines pneumatic performance with cordless convenience, as well as a robust design and durable construction – making it ideal for professional framers and contractors.

FASTENERS, NAILERS, STAPLERS + SYSTEMS FEATURE

eaturing optimised power and performance, SENCO’s nailer is suitable for a variety of applications including framing, panelised construction, truss building, subflooring, sheathing, decking, fencing, pallets and crate assembly.

yan Masters, senior product manager at Stanley Black & Decker, explains: “Our users need the convenience and freedom offered by a cordless pin nailer that eliminates the use of compressors and hoses traditional pneumatic products require. This new nailer delivers on those needs and is just one of the most recent innovations from DEWALT® that is helping to fuel the transition to a cordless jobsite.”

DEWALT®, a Stanley Black & Decker brand, has introduced the ATOMIC COMPACT SERIES™ 20V MAX brushless cordless 23 gauge pin nailer. With its high output brushless motor, the DCN623 pin nailer is capable of driving 23 gauge pin nails from ⅝ inches up to 1½ inches in length into a variety of woods, including solid oak.

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Driving the transition to cordless convenience

STAPLERS + SYSTEMS FEATURE

As well as this, the tool features a smart framer to reduce jams and alert users to any problems; a pressure relief valve and refillable air port to simplify service repair and tool maintenance; and a brushless motor for efficient and consistent performance.

PRODUCTS + TOOLS

The Fusion F-35XP framing nailer also features up to 600 shots per full charge, as well as Fusion cordless air power technology, which means the tool operates like a true pneumatic with no ramp up time – providing the power to sink nails completely into hard substrates, including engineered lumber.

COLLATED

www.astrotechsteels.com | marketing@astrotechsteels.com GLOBAL FOOTPRINT CUSTOMIZED PACKAGING PRIVATE LABELLING COLLATED NAILS CUSTOM PACKAGED NAILS HAND DRIVEN NAILSISO45001:2018ISO9001:2015 | ISO 14001:2015 An “ISO 9001 Approved Supplier” SUPPLIER TO THE OEM AND AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY Unit 21, Vauxhall Industrial Estate, Ruabon, Wrexham, LL14 6HA, UK t: +44 (0) 1978 823 900 e: sales@aslgroup.uk.com www.advancerivets.co.uk

Makita has introduced the new 18V LXT® brushless 6,000rpm autofeed screwdriver, model XRF03Z, which it states delivers superior fastening speed to handle a variety of materials and applications.

Superior fastening from Makita

U COLLATED FASTENERS, NAILERS, STAPLERS + SYSTEMS FEATURE Fastener And Fixing Mag Ad AW.pdf 13 06/01/2021 12:22

sing a Makita brushless motor to achieve a maximum fastening speed of 6,000rpm, the autofeed screwdriver can be used in a variety of work environments and can drive up to 2,250 screws with Push Drive™ technology on a single charge of an 18V LXT® 5.0Ah battery. Push Drive™ enables the user to operate the tool but only has the motor running when the fastener engages for longer run times and reduced noise.

“The autofeed screwdriver is a great addition to the line-up of fastening tools in the LXT® system,” said Rudy Jansen, residential construction product manager at Makita Inc. “The autofeed screwdriver can handle a variety of drywall, decking and framing applications faster, allowing the user to increase productivity with less fatigue.”

PRODUCTS + TOOLS

Engineered for continuous use, the autofeed screwdriver is both compact and ergonomic and weighs only 4.9lbs, with battery, for reduced operator fatigue. The handle is designed with the user in mind with a comfortable rubberised grip and a lock-on button for continuous use.

Switching from a work environment that requires different materials to be installed is also achievable with the autofeed screwdriver, as it can accept screws ranging from 1 inch – 2 3/16 inches. The depth that the fastener is installed can be adjusted using a one touch wheel that allows the fastener to either sit at the surface of the material or below depending on the application.

omplying with DIN 3122/ISO 3315 regulations and suitable for torques up to 512Nm, Stahlwille Eduard Wille GmbH & Co KG recommends the new tool for professional users who frequently work with high torques. The tool features a changeover switch for right and left rotation, which is located on the top of the head in a slight recess. In doing this, accidental changeover is prevented.

UMAA has established a reputation for producing big and distinctive fasteners and exporting them across the world, including France, Germany, the United States, North Macedonia, Slovakia, and Saudi Arabia, by meeting the demand for fasteners that are more sophisticated, challenging and unique.

Stahlwille has expanded its ½ inch ratchet range with the 516 telescopic ratchet, primarily designed for use in the commercial vehicle sector, as well as bolt tightening operations on industrial installations.

With its crucial machined components and high-tensile fasteners, UMAA Engineers specialises in creating non-standard, unique fasteners based on customer requirements – always putting the customer first.

SPIROL recently launched its new and improved corporate website – a culmination of over 74 years of engineering knowledge and experience in the fastening, joining and assembly arena.

Available in 10 languages, the new corporate website has a specific ‘Fastener and Assembly Resource Centre’ for easy access to product catalogues and design guides, 2D/3D drawings, instructional videos, white papers, application success stories, as well as FAQs.

“Alloy steels, medium carbon steels, low carbon steels, and boron steels, are the basic materials we employ. Through our unwavering quality and prompt delivery, we hope to establish ourselves as a ‘go to’ source for special fasteners and critical parts for all railway and heavy equipment manufacturers. Our goal is to develop enduring business relationships with our valued customers by offering them a product that serves as a testament to our dependability, commitment and excellence,” comments Mr Palaniappan, CEO at UMAA Engineers.

New versatile tool –even in difficult spaces

The shaft of the ratchet can also be adjusted in five steps from 410mm –630mm, where each step is 55mm. The variable length allows for additional application possibilities where the use of a ratchet is not normally possible or only possible to a limited extent. The extension action is fast and safe thanks to the slide bearings and ‘end stop’ protection. The length is adjusted by means of a rocker at the front end of the shaft. Due to the telescopic shaft, the tool is versatile, even in difficult spaces with limited room to move.

imple to use and easy to navigate, the new site makes it effortless to connect with SPIROL’s global locations; request technical support; submit an RFQ; as well as purchase product through the company’s integrated eCommerce website.

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www.spirol.co.uk

The ratchet also features a two component convex handle for ease of use, which provides a secure grip, even when hands are dirty or wet. In addition, the grip components are resistant to oils, greases, brake fluids and Skydrol –a hydraulic fluid used in the aviation sector.

SPIROL launches new website

satisfactiontoCommittedcustomer

The site also provides an easy method of connecting with the global application engineering team to help design not only the engineered fastener, but also to make the critical recommendations for the interface between the fastener and assembly components to ensure the product goes together and stays together for the intended life of the assembly.

ndian-based UMAA Engineers is ISO 9001:2015 and IATF 16949:2016 certified and specialises in producing critical fasteners for earth moving equipment, road making machines, tractors, oil and gas energy applications, valves and two wheelers. The company produces hot forged, cold forged, and machined fasteners for diverse OEM applications.

“MAKINGQUALITYINDUSTRIALFASTENERSSINCE1870” Visit www.londonscrew.com to see our full range of products PURPOSESFORALLTHREADSALL • UK’s largest range of Allthreads DIN976 (up to 1.2m) • Machine screws (DIN/ISO, Imperial and Specials) • Large and small production runs • Ask for a copy of our stock list or request a quote Call 01384 569 832 or email sales@londonscrew.com THE WORLD FASTENERSINCH-OF www.schroederschrauben.de YEARS S C H RODE R

Produced by TR’s in-house visualisation team, 3D models have been created to enable the user to accurately visualise products in different settings and formats. Ever wondered what a self-clinch fastener looks like cut in half, or visualised the appearance of when it is fully assembled? TR believes it’s this product visualisation that will assist companies at the design stage and will be invaluable. Various options enable the user to interact with the products such as assemblies, cutaways, magnification, material types and Currently,installation.thereare approximately 50 products with the 3D product visualiser available on the TR website. The company’s intention is for

TR Fastenings has launched new interactive

PRODUCTS + TOOLS

these to be an integral part of its ongoing content strategy – as the industry evolves visualisation technology to meet design engineering demands. These interactive animations also include installation animations where an entire installation process can be shown, end-to-end. What can often be difficult to explain is now much clearer and easier to understand using visual representation. TR’s installation animations are a way of demonstrating a virtual assembly and sub assembly in a simple way. These ‘real time’ technical animations demonstrate products, processes, and concepts, which can often be complex and hard to visualise.

3D animations to serve as a training and educational tool for buyers and design engineers when it comes to products and installation methods.

ith the advent of emerging technologies, manufacturing is becoming more complex. The integration of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) is enabling manufacturers to simplify these processes. TR Fastenings Ltd, part of Trifast Plc Group, is therefore embracing and taking advantage of this growing trend with its animation know-how.

TR launches interactive animations for engineers

“We are delighted with our new series of 3D product visualisers and animations. This represents a real step change in how designers and engineers can work with us. VR and AR technology has advanced significantly in recent years, but our industry has not fully captured that potential. We will continue to develop our offering to ensure we bring innovative concepts to life,” says Glenda Roberts, global projects and marketing director at TR Fastenings.

EXPRESS 40.000automatedSERVICEstorage95%productsinstockREFERENCESstandardproductsscrews,bolts,nuts,washersONLINEORDERS24hdeliveryservicelivewarehousestockm e s d h dw D L S m s d b L d f v kdº09 d3d h L d4 L a b d d2 d3 s d s b k ds e a b h d > FASTENERS DISTRIBUTION < POL.MARTIARTU II - 48480 - ARRIGORRIAGA - SPAIN TLF +34 ROSMIL@ROSMIL.COM946714760 WWW.ROSMIL.COM ROSMIL INDUSTRIAL S.A. L a b d d2 d3 s CLINCHING FASTENER SPECIALIST t: e: w: +86-139-2920-4841 zhuyb@grandametal.com www.grandametal.com Main Products: • Clinch & Sheet Metal Fasteners • Self-Clinching Nuts, Standoff, Studs • Welding Studs and Standoff • Cage Nut • Rivet Bushes • Brass Inserts for Plastics • Rivet Nuts • Customeized CNC/Colf foring hardware. Strengths: • Producer in China • IATF 16949 Certificate • PPAP and IMDS free • Optical Sorting 100% • Full range for clinching fastener

askets are used to prevent leaks around mating surfaces, whereas washers are used to distribute the load of a threaded fastener. Most washers won’t have the ability to prevent fluid or gas leakage; therefore, gaskets are the better choice for sealing applications.

high-quality rubber, which is moulded into the cavity of the nut itself. These nuts feature threads moulded directly into the rubber and they provide a positive seal along the threaded section of the Seelnut®, as well as with the contact surface. This eliminates the need for gaskets, extra surface preparation and sealing compounds.

Washers from APM

Although gaskets and washers share some similarities, they serve functions.”different

Is a gasket the same as a washer?

Hexseal also produces patented Seeloc® washers, featuring moulded silicone rubber bonded to specially formed stainless steel washers. These washers work in conjunction with standard studs, screws, or bolts, to create an airtight seal unlike any other. By forming an effective seal, Seeloc® washers ensure optimal performance of electrical and mechanical equipment. They are UL recognised, making them a perfect choice for NEMA rated applications.

www.apmhexseal.com G

Although gaskets and washers share some similarities, they serve different functions. Here APM Hexseal discusses why gaskets and washers are often assumed to be the same thing and how they serve very different purposes.

Common types of gaskets include flange gaskets, constant seating gaskets, spiral wound gaskets and soft-cut gaskets. Gaskets are used in nearly every industry, with applications including aerospace equipment, wind turbines, medical equipment, electronics, automotive and heavy Commonequipment.types of washers include plain washers, locking washers, spring washers and torque washers. Bonded sealing washers are used throughout many industries such as aerospace, agriculture, automotive, construction, marine, military and mining. Their durability and effectiveness also make them suitable for applications such as HVAC equipment, marine electronics, construction and industrial equipment, hydraulics and braking systems.

Custom moulded gaskets from APM

Along with custom moulded gaskets, APM also offers a

The shape and size of washers are also different compared to gaskets. Most washers are small and feature a uniform circular shape to enable them to fit around bolts. Gaskets are not used with bolts, meaning they are available in a wider variety of shapes and sizes. In terms of materials, washers are almost always made of metal; whereas gaskets can be made of metal, metal alloys, rubber and other materials.

PRODUCTS + TOOLS

Imperial Seeloc® washers: These washers can handle torque values at least 50% higher than our original Seeloc® washers. They are ideal for various sealing applications, including medical equipment, chemical handling, construction equipment and food processing. These too are also available in heavy-duty.

“Washers and gaskets have different functions, but whichever one you need, APM Hexseal can help with its innovative solutions.”

As part of its product line, APM

Types of Seeloc® washers available include: Metric Seeloc® washers: These washers are available in all standard metric measurements to ensure an easy selection process for manufacturers around the world. They can withstand a broad range of temperatures and can resist fungus, dust, most acids and oils, oZone and more. These washers are also available in heavy-duty.

Moulded gaskets feature high durability and can withstand a wide range of operating environments. APM Hexseal is a provider of durable high-quality sealing hardware, including custom moulded gaskets and washers, with an experienced team of designers, engineers, and manufacturing experts, who can work with users to develop a reliable, rugged and high-quality gasket –based on specific application requirements.

Sealing Specialists t: 201.569.5700 • e: info@apmhexseal.com • w: www.apmhexseal.com 44 Honeck Street, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA Global leader in the design and manufacture of sealing solutions since 1947. Find out more at www.apmhexseal.com In the challengingmostclimates In the mostorconditionshostileOnearthinspace Need this? Get this – directly from stock! 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. TOBSTEEL GmbH Rudolf-Diesel-Straße 8 | D-74613 Öhringen So, why not contact us? Call +49 7941 6073-0 Mail info@tobsteel.com Visit www.tobsteel.com

PRODUCTS + TOOLS

reated after Ironclad® realised there was a significant gap in work glove technology, the Command™ Series line of work gloves stops workers from having to remove their gloves to enter data or capture images on phones, tablets or data entry devices – increasing their productivity and hand safety.

With touchscreen technology rapidly entering the work world, Ironclad® Performance Wear –available at Brighton Best International UK Ltd (BBI) – has introduced the Command™ Series line of work gloves, which it says is the first glove line to utilise embedded nanoparticle technology into the glove palm.

To determine the effectiveness of the technology, Ironclad® performed a series of comparison tests that pitted the Command™

“Our Command™ technology incorporates touchscreen into the very fibres of our gloves. By fusing conductive nanoparticles into the fibres of the synthetic leather, we are able to ensure that not only is conductivity present throughout the entirety of the material, but also that the material stays conductive throughout its entire lifespan. Our touchscreen won’t wear off, rip off, or wash off like typical touchscreen work gloves,” comments BBI. “We employ a similar technology in out knit gloves. Conductive nanoparticles are introduced at the beginning of production – ensuring that there is a consistent, homogeneous mix during the coating process. This makes sure that for as long as the glove is useful, it will remain fully touchscreen compatible.”

A Brighton-Best International CompanyT: 01224 047066E: sales@ironclad.com www.IRONCLAD.com GLOVES WITHOUT LIMITS DEMAND THE BEST. DEMAND IRONCLAD. KNIT CUT 1 SIZEKKC1FNXS-XXL KNIT CUT 3 SIZEKKC3KVXS-XXL 360 DRIVER SIZEULD-C5S-XXXL HEAVY UTILITY SIZEHUGS-XXL LP IMPACT SIZEKCI2PUS-XXL PRO IMPACT SIZEIEX-MIGLS-XXL CHEM IMPACT SIZEKCHA5S-XXXL A2 INSULATED SIZEKC1SNW2XS-XXL RIGGER C5 SIZEKRC5S-XXXL

Command™ touchscreen technology available from BBI

Over 150 years’ experience in UK MANUFACTURING Huge Range of Metric & Imperial Blanks Grades 4.6, 8.8, 10.9, 12.9; R, S, T, V, SAE8 UK’s largest stocks of BSF & BSW Special Head Shapes Most Materials including Exotics Excellent Prices & Delivery METRIC & IMPERIAL SPECIAL FASTENERS BulloughSmith Tel: 01942 520250 Yoursales@smithbullough.comwww.smithbullough.com Non-Standard is our Standard!

Additionally, WEBER Schraubautomaten GmbH insists customers utilising the SBM25 will be able to monitor the setting path and

Extraction tools for the toughest fasteners

www.reyher.de

REYHER’s extensive stainless steel range

Fully automatic processing of blind rivet nuts

“We talked with professional mechanics and industrial technicians, and they all pointed to massive flaws in their screw extractor tools,” comments Jarret Wolf, senior product manager at GEARWRENCH. “With their help our Bolt Biter™ screw extractors go above and beyond in addressing those issues to provide a solution that is as effective as it is durable.”

uplex is a mixed microstructure of ferrites and austenites, with this combination uniting the advantages of both materials. The yield strength is 0.2% higher than austenitic materials of the same ductility. In addition, the fatigue strength under corrosive conditions is also higher in duplex steels.

s part of the range, the GEARWRENCH Bolt BiterTM screw extractors are designed to grip stripped, frozen and damaged screws successfully – using patented tapered sides so the tool sits easily and safely onto damaged screws, while the side and tip cutting edges provide powerful and consistent extraction.

REYHER’s product range also includes fasteners of austenitic steels in materials A2, A4 and A5. The duplex items (material D6) with hardness Class 100 are available in nominal diameters ranging from M6 – M16.

lind rivet nuts offer users multiple benefits and are an indispensable component of modern fastening technology. When inserting blind rivet nuts, work is often carried out with exceptionally thin components, which are only accessible from one side or are already coated, thus requiring continuous monitoring of the work process. With the SBM25 insertion system, rivets and other fasteners are now fed via a push-in system, which reduces feed times. Both the applied force and the feed rate are also controlled. As with the previous model, threading and insertion of the components is carried out via two separate EC drives and the setting process can be configured via the operating panel.

The second generation SBM25 insertion system for blind rivet nuts and studs from WEBER offers the fully automatic processing of blind rivet nuts and studs for various applications.

“The new SBM25 is our response to customer requests we have received in recent years. We have invested over 20 years of intensive experience in this product area into the system,” explains Michael Steidl, product manager at WEBER.

GEARWRENCH, part of Apex Tool Group, offers a reliable range of extraction tools under its Bolt BiterTM range that have been designed to remove fasteners and screws that have been frozen, corroded or malformed.

The bi-directional design enables an easy removal of fasteners from the extractor after use and allows for fasteners to be retightened in an emergency, if needed. With ¼ inch and 7/16 inch hex base options, Bolt Biter™ screw extractors can be used with a ratchet, wrench or power tool and are available in both a four piece and ten piece set.

insertion force for the joint. The system offers the ability to visualise multiple displacement or force curves, enabling ease of use and error analysis. The device works according to the ‘spin-pull’ principle, so symmetrical deformation of the shank and surface friendly processing are ensured. The setting process takes place without hydraulicHexagonsupport.andround nuts in the sizes M5, M6, M8, M10 are processed as standard sizes for the insertion system. Customised solutions for other shapes and sizes are also available on request.

REYHER points out that thanks to their higher basic strength compared to austenites, higher end strengths are comparatively easy to achieve with duplex steels. For example, strength Class 100 is a very useful extension and achieves strength values with a tensile strength of 1,000 MPa and an elongation limit of 800 MPa, which are only slightly lower than those of a carbon steel screw of Class 10.9.

REYHER has a comprehensive range of stainless steel items in stock, including screws, nuts and washers of duplex steel D6 in the property Class 100.

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Jubilee ® Clips 100 Years of the Finest Hose Clip in the World Tel: +44(0)1634 www.jubileeclips.co.uk281200 QP Jubilee 2021 Add.pdf 1 23/02/2021 15:22:14

NORMA has been recognised by Boeing for its supplier performance in 2021, receiving a Supply Performance Achievement Certificate – as well as earning a spot in the Boeing Premier Bidder Program.

oeing issues the Supply Chain Performance Achievement award annually to highlight suppliers who have achieved superior performance. This year, Boeing recognised 240 suppliers who achieved either gold or silver level. NORMA Group was one of 43 suppliers to receive the gold level of recognition

NORMA Group also earned a spot in the Boeing Premier Bidder Program, which provides Premier Bidder members with an opportunity to increase their business with Boeing, including visibility of upcoming bids and an invitation to conferences with key Supply Chain leadership. NORMA joins approximately 140 suppliers that have met and sustained the high-quality, delivery and performance criteria required for inclusion in the Premier Bidder

“TheseProgram.recognitions represent a great honour for us and reinforce the fact that our products meet the stringent quality requirements of the aviation industry. Our hose clamps are used in the cabins and help to transport people and cargo safely from ‘A’ to ‘B’. We are extremely proud of this achievement. The recognitions are also an incentive for us to continue optimising our products and services. We look forward to further strengthening and expanding our cooperation with Boeing in the future,” says Dr Michael Schneider, CEO of NORMA Group.

PRODUCTS + TOOLS

NORMA recognised by Boeing

Opportunity to acquire business with busy trade counter. This long established and well respected, family-owned business, offers a unique opportunity to have a centrally located presence in the UK, close to all major motorway networks. For over 30 years this business has supplied fasteners and fixings to the engineering, construction and automotive industries. Major deals include supplying UK contractors’ fixings for major sporting events throughout Asia. Awarded with ISO 9001 Stockingcompanieswithenablingaccreditation,tradeaerospaceandtheHighwaysAgency.over 50,000 lines in all threads, it is supported by professional knowledgeableandstaff For more information about this opportunity, please email info@verulammedia.com quoting reference ‘acquire #026’ DISTRIBUTORFASTENERSFORBUSINESSSALE&FIXINGS WEST MIDLANDS, UNITED KINGDOM

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Norm Civata 19 omniTechnik Mikroverkapselungs GmbH 107

Schaefer+Peters 25

Sheh Kai 85 Sipa 77

Ningbo Londex 37

National Machinery 113 ND Industries 4, 5, 27

Triplefast s.r.o.

Jubliee clips (L Robinson & Co) 167

S.M.T Srl 132

Kanban Servis s.r.o 137 Kinfast Hardware (Shenzhen) Ltd 153 Kistler 129 Klimas 1, 89

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine #137

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