Fastener + Fixing Magazine #148

INTEGRATED SUPPLY SOLUTIONS

As an integral element of the supply chain of European fastener distributors, Fastbolt has developed a wide range of digital connectivity tools to support the purchasing processes of its customers. With our own team of software developers we are able to provide customized EDI- and API-based connectivity and offer access to FBonline - our market leading e-commerce solution allowing customers efficient and intuitive digitized processes, information and documentation in purchasing. Fastbolt’s digital solutions help to reduce processing costs for fastener distributors and make daily sourcing of standard fasteners effortless.

Ideal for making reliable electrical connections between copper or aluminium busbars, PCBs, or cable terminals.

• Innovative design

• Simple installation

• Consistent electrical connections

• Reduced total installed cost

EDITOR'S NOTE

Will Lowry, content director, Fastener + Fixing Magazine

The challenges of CBAM

There are certain topics within the fastener sector that, as a magazine, we can always guarantee will elicit a response from an interviewee or company, for instance anti-dumping, freight prices and delivery, as well as raw material prices. As our special Fastener Distribution feature in this edition underlines, CBAM can certainly be added to this list.

The fastener sector has seemingly faced geopolitical issues almost every year since Covid-19, and it seems that for 2024 the challenge fastener distributors are facing is how they handle the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation, which is requiring a lot of time and effort to not only understand the regulation, but ensure the right data and information is being collected.

Nearly every article within the Fastener Distribution feature discusses CBAM, with each business outlining how they are tackling the topic, as well as some of the issues they are facing. The phrase ‘misery loves company’ might be a little strong, but the feature is certainly worth a read for those businesses that would like to see how other companies are approaching the topic.

in automation, digitisation, sustainability and storage capacity – emphasising that even in the current slow market, businesses are still planning for growth.

from national associations, including Fachverband des Schrauben-Großhandels (FDS) of Germany, Unione Distributori Italiani Bulloneria (UDIB) of Italy, PRISMEFIX –Association des Distributeurs Français Specialistes en Elements de Fixations of France, Asociación de Distribuidores Españoles de Fijaciones (ADEFI) of Spain, the British and Irish Association of Fastener Distributors – BIAFD, as well as the Dutch association NEVIB.

Another leading business within the fastener distribution sector is Fastbolt Group, with the company the focus of our Cover Story. Managing Director Ekkehard Beermann explains how the business is preparing to be one of the first in the world to pilot an automated compact storage system in order to further strengthen the supply chain for distributors in Europe.

The feature also does highlight some positive developments within the sector as well, including warehouse extensions, automated warehouses, and new warehouses located outside Europe, as well as new product lines, new services, plus investments

www.fastenerandfixing.com

Published by

Managing Director

Jamie Mitchell jamie.mitchell@verulammedia.com

Content Director

Will Lowry will.lowry@verulammedia.com

Deputy Editor Claire Aldridge claire.aldridge@verulammedia.com

The Fastener Distribution feature also includes an article from the European Fastener Distributor Association (EFDA) that concentrates on CBAM and how the association is looking to support members during the transition phase, as well as insights

Assistant Editor Rebecca England rebecca.england@verulammedia.com

Sales Director Mac Rahman mac.rahman@verulammedia.com

Business Development Manager –Italy

Emiliano Pagliaroli emiliano.pagliaroli@verulammedia.com

Business Development Manager –DACH & Europe

Chantal Ridings chantal.ridings@verulammedia.com

Production & Design Manager Lee Duskwick lee.duskwick@verulammedia.com

As always there are a host of other insights, articles and new developments throughout the magazine, so please do make sure you give every section a read to keep yourself better informed about what is happening within the fastener and fixing sector.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine is a dedicated, trade–only publication which is circulated freely throughout the European trade. Disclaimer

The Publisher cannot be held responsible or, in any way, liable for errors or omissions, during input or printing of any material supplied or contained herein although the utmost care is taken to ensure that information contained is accurate and up to date. The Publisher also cannot be held liable for any claims made by advertisers or in contributions from individuals or companies submitted for inclusion within this publication. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Editor or Verulam Media.

Copyright Entire contents copyright © Verulam Media Ltd 2024. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior permission of the publisher.

Annual subscription (6 issues) to non–trade and outside EU is €200.00 Verulam Media Limited, Office 3, 17 Holywell Hill, St Albans AL1 IDT Tel: +44 (0) 1727 743 882 Find us online:

+

Part of the Mack Brooks Group

Hilti Group continues growth in challenging environment

Over the first four months of 2024 Hilti Group recorded sales growth of 2.9% in local currencies compared to the same period of the previous year. Translated into Swiss francs, sales declined by 1.8% to CHF 2.103 billion (€2.161 billion) resulting from an ongoing significant negative currency effect.

Jahangir Doongaji, CEO at Hilti, explains: “Construction activity in Europe has slowed down significantly, while in other parts of the world, such as Asia and Latin America, we still see some market growth. We are confident that our robust global footprint will enable us to outperform the market.” Although the Swiss franc has weakened against the euro and the US dollar in recent weeks, the negative currency effect on sales remains significant and amounts to -4.7% for the first four months of the current year.

The sales development in the business regions varies strongly. Europe recorded a slight growth of 0.5% in local currencies, with southern Europe being the only region to escape this downward trend. The Americas increased sales by 2.6%, primarily driven by double-digit growth in Latin America. The Asia/Pacific region took advantage of an improved market environment to increase sales by 6.7%. The eastern Europe/Middle East/Africa region also remained on the growth track (+16%).

For 2024, the company anticipates sales growth in the low to mid single digit range in local currencies.

H.B Fuller acquires ND Industries

H.B Fuller Company, one of the biggest pureplay adhesives companies in the world, has announced that it has acquired ND Industries Inc, a provider of speciality adhesives and fastener locking and sealing solutions – serving customers in the automotive, electronics, aerospace, as well as other industries.

The acquisition is expected to accelerate the realisation of H.B Fuller’s top growth priorities, consistent with the company’s strategy to proactively drive capital allocation to the highest margin and highest growth market segments within the functional coatings, adhesives, sealants and elastomer (CASE) industry. As part of the acquisition, products under ND Industries’ Vibra-Tite® brand will be added to H.B Fuller’s existing epoxy, cyanoacrylate, UV curable and anaerobic product range.

“ND Industries has been a very profitable, family-owned business for several decades and has impressively built one of the most extensive product portfolios in the pre-applied fastener industry,” says Celeste Mastin, president and CEO at H.B Fuller. “Its products are a natural fit with our existing market segments and bring new technology to our portfolio – combining the benefits of an adhesive and a mechanical fastener within extremely demanding applications –resulting in a powerful advantage for our customers.”

ND Industries specialises in formulating and manufacturing a wide variety of materials applied on fasteners and assemblies to aid in critical functions such as locking, sealing, masking, lubricating, as well as noise and vibration dampening. The company also has a network of processing centres providing in-house engineered coating application services to help increase the safety and reliability of fastener assemblies, as well as a line of small pack technologies for maintenance, repair and operations (MRO). The combination of innovative adhesives, custom equipment, and pre-applied processing centres, expands H.B Fuller’s already extensive adhesive application expertise.

“With more than 55 years of excellence and a strong customer base, ND Industries has been at the forefront of technological advancements for decades,” adds Richard Wallace, chairman of ND Industries Inc. “Both companies have worked closely over the past several months to ensure a smooth transition and share many of the same values, including close customer collaboration and innovating with speed.”

Goebel to host World Riveting Congress

Goebel Germany is celebrating the opening of its new showroom ‘Riveting World’ with its World Riveting Congress (WRC2024) for buyers, distributors and manufacturers of blind rivet fasteners.

Being held on 26th – 28 th September, the WRC2024 will give attendees the chance to test the latest blind rivet developments, such as new riveting machines, robot arms, as well as automatic feeding systems. There will also be a tour of Goebel’s manufacturing plant, where the company manufactures blind rivets, such as the G-Grip®

Also taking place will be a line-up of technical lectures from experts including the Fraunhofer Institute, Deloitte, Smart Cert and many more. WRC2024 will conclude with an opening party at one of the most famous clubs in Düsseldorf, as well as a golf tournament. Space and availability to attend is limited and potential attendees are asked to contact marketing@goebel-group.com for an invitation.

A new CEO Europe at KAMAX

Peter-Thomas Büsing recently took over the role of CEO Europe at KAMAX, a global technological leader for high strength fasteners and complex cold form parts in the automotive industry.

In his role Peter-Thomas Büsing is in charge of all European plants, the subsidiary GALOL, and the sales, supply chain, technology and tools departments – making him responsible for around 2,500 employees, more than half of KAMAX’s workforce.

At KAMAX he will now drive forward the development of processes and the organisational structure. “My goal is to consolidate KAMAX’s position in Europe as a strategic partner for our customers that can be relied upon even in times of upheaval and complex challenges. Technologically, we will continue

to build on our strengths to offer innovative and individual solutions in the future,” states Peter-Thomas Büsing.

Previously, the 55 year old was president of the EMEA region and, since October 2022, a member of the executive committee of Grammer AG. In this role, he had overall operational responsibility for Europe, Middle East, and Africa, which has 18 organisational units.

Peter-Thomas succeeds Dr Reinhard Rupprecht, who has been appointed CEO of the KAMAX Group, with Peter-Thomas reporting directly to Dr Rupprecht.

Bulten partners with FNsteel for green fastener production

In order to further reduce its carbon footprint, Bulten AB has signed an agreement with Dutch wire rod manufacturer, FNsteel B.V, giving it access to the most circular steel on the market for fastener production, as well as enabling the company to offer its customers a greener product option.

The greener wire rod is based on 60% – 80% recycled scrap from ‘end of life’ products and is made using fossil-free electricity. This can be compared to the most common scrap-based wire rod used in fastener production today, which is usually based on steel scrap from industrial manufacturing processes.

With access to the unique wire rod, Bulten is able to take a critical step towards a product offering based on material with less than 300kg carbon dioxide per tonne of steel – a milestone on the way to carbon neutrality.

Bulten’s agreement with FNsteel runs for three years and will have a major impact for Bulten when it comes to achieving its Scope 3 emissions target, which is to reduce emissions from suppliers by 25% per tonne of products sold by 2030. The wire rod will mainly be used to produce fasteners for the automotive industry at Bulten’s European plants. These currently account for the majority of the company’s global production volumes.

“This exciting collaboration allows end user customers to access a truly bespoke green product, which is ‘best in class’ from a carbon footprint perspective when compared to any alternative in the market,” says Matthijs van der Schoot, managing director at FNsteel.

Novastone Capital Advisors acquires Mecavit

Novastone Capital Advisors GmbH, a Swiss company renowned for managing the world’s largest Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) programme, has successfully acquired 100% of Mecavit Srl, through an Italian special purpose vehicle.

With a 40 year history and based in Castel Guelfo di Bologna, Mecavit has established itself as a trusted name in the fastener manufacturing industry, known for its high-quality products. The company’s growth and reputation have been carefully nurtured by its partners over the years. The sellers will reinvest in the project, ensuring its continuity and future success.

Nicoletta Nutrito, an engineer and local resident with extensive experience in both national and international industries, will lead the company. Her vision is to maintain the company’s high standards of quality while fostering innovation and growth. “Our goal is to prioritise quality, technical expertise, and reliability, while expanding our offerings to new markets,” explains Nicoletta Nutrito.

Former partners Giuseppe Verdoliva and Giorgio Grillini will continue to support the company alongside Mrs Nutrito. “We are pleased to pass the management to a professional from our region who not only possesses the necessary skills but also shares our values and is committed to ensuring growth and continuity,” adds Bruno Carafa, director, speaking on behalf of the other partners.

Profast Group acquisition sparks new era of growth

Profast Group – a supplier of fasteners, fixings, window and door hardware to the construction and manufacturing industries in Ireland and the UK – has been successfully acquired by three dedicated colleagues.

Led by Stephen Clarke, alongside Craig Milne and Jonathan Aiken, the team has taken ownership of Profast Group for an undisclosed sum, with Belfast-based business advisory firm BDO Northern Ireland serving as the lead advisor during the acquisition. The strategic acquisition, which includes Profast Ltd in Ireland, Profast (NI) Ltd, and Fortus Hardware Ltd, sets a robust foundation for future growth and expansion.

As part of the successful management buyout, Stephen Clarke has been appointed chief executive officer, Craig Milne as chief operating officer and Jonathan Aiken as chief commercial officer. The company has been acquired from Brendan Flynn, who has driven its growth since 1995, with the support of his wife Helen and Managing Director Philip Gregg. The new leadership team is committed to increasing Profast Group’s footprint across

Ireland and the UK market, leveraging its extensive experience from large-scale public and private sector projects, such as Belfast’s new iconic Transport Hub and the Belfast Grand Central Hotel.

Currently employing more than 55 full time staff members, Profast Group has also contributed significantly to high profile developments, including Windsor Park in Belfast, Aviva Stadium in Dublin, the Titanic Museum, Belfast Film Studios, H&W, new educational institutions, residential projects and, in recent years, global data centres and renewable energy initiatives.

Reflecting on this transition Stephen Clarke commented: “The business remains in very capable hands. I am honoured to assume the role of CEO and lead Profast Group into its next phase of growth. No one understands the business and its potential better than

AICHELIN Group signs joint venture agreement

AICHELIN Group and Sistem Teknik have signed an agreement to establish a joint venture in Austria, to produce and distribute industrial vacuum heat treatment technologies and services in Europe.

With this joint agreement, AICHELIN Group is adding a promising segment to its existing product portfolio. Christian Grosspointner, CEO of AICHELIN Group, explains: “As one of the global market leaders in the production of industrial furnaces for industrial heat treatment, we want to become an even stronger partner in the supply of vacuum furnaces for industry. The joint venture combines the best of two worlds, with the products developed by Sistem Teknik and our global aftersales and service network, we create maximum customer focus – a perfect combination to better meet the increasing demand for vacuum solutions in the future.”

Mehmet Özdeşlik, CEO of Sistem Teknik Sanayi Firinlari A.S, adds: “The motivation of our joint venture is to offer the best possible technology that fits our time, which inevitably demands environmental efficiency and sustainability. We have noticed that there is a strong market for megatrends such as carbon footprint, electromobility and Lean production. With our vacuum furnaces, we aim to provide solutions that ensure low carbon emissions and maximum process quality. I am very confident that this collaboration will not only bring innovation, but also benefit our industry.”

Jonny, Craig, and I, and most importantly our amazing team. I am incredibly excited about the future, and I am very proud of our entire team. The Profast Group has come an incredibly long way since it was established almost 50 years ago.”

Bossard acquires Dejond

Bossard Group has expanded its market position within innovative fastening technologies, acquiring Belgian company Dejond Fastening – a manufacturer of blind rivet nuts and specialist in the distribution of high-quality fastening systems.

Dejond Fastening N.V, headquartered in Antwerp, employs 68 people and expects net sales of around €15 million for the current financial year. With its own brand Tubtara®, the company is a pioneer in innovative solutions for sheet metal, profiles, composites and plastic fastening solutions for a wide range of industries.

Dejond’s solutions enable engineers to optimise both their product design and manufacturing processes, which fits well with Bossard’s ‘Proven Productivity’ philosophy. With this acquisition, Bossard will further strengthen its market presence in the Benelux region.

“Bossard has been working with Dejond for over 30 years. We have consistently been impressed by the company’s reliability and innovations ever since. By combining technical expertise with our global market reach, technical sales expertise, and trusted access to a wide range of industrial customers, we see great potential to offer even more value to our existing and new customers,” reports Daniel Bossard, CEO of Bossard Group.

“Becoming part of the Bossard Group guarantees continuity for our existing customers and it opens up completely new possibilities to expand the global market presence of Tubtara®. It will give us new opportunities to widen our product offering and invest in new technologies and sales capabilities,” concludes Jan Maeyens, director R&D and manufacturing at Dejond.

The metal business, including the Metal Service Center, is not part of the acquisition and will continue to operate independently under the name Dejond N.V.

Würth Group donates to UNICEF

As part of a worldwide campaign week, Würth Group has supported the UN Children’s Fund UNICEF by making a donation of €405,000 to an aid programme providing children in Sudan with access to safe learning spaces and safeguarding their future.

In Berlin, Germany, on 14 th June 2024, Würth Group presented a donation cheque to UNICEF for the seventh time from the Group’s annual RW WORKOUT Week – a worldwide sales campaign running for over 34 years, in which staff team up in ‘ride-alongs’ where inside employees accompany sales representatives on their daily customer visits.

“Millions of children around the world cannot go to school. With this donation for safe learning spaces in Sudan, we want to restore access to education for children in the midst of the deep education crisis, so that they can not only go to school, but also be kids despite the difficult situation,” reports Bettina Würth, chairwoman of the advisory board of Würth Group and member of the UNICEF Committee for Germany.

The donation will be used for the UNICEF aid programme and aims to provide safe learning spaces for children in the midst of the brutal conflict in Sudan. Even before the outbreak of the ongoing armed conflict in Sudan, around 8.5 million children needed humanitarian aid. Today, the country faces one of the largest displacement and education crises in the world. Around 14 million children need humanitarian aid and 19 million children are no longer able to attend school due to the closure of 18,000 schools in conflict areas.

The donation will serve to set-up safe learning spaces, providing children and adolescents with access to protection, social contacts and education. UNICEF equips the learning spaces with learning materials

and toys and sees to the psychological and psychosocial support of children. If the safety situation does not permit for children to attend school in person, they can learn at home using an eLearning program on solar powered tablets. The UNICEF facilities also support family members by providing them with access to water and healthcare.

Celebrating 29 years of Hafren

Hafren Fasteners has marked its 29 th anniversary, celebrating nearly three decades of innovation, growth and dedication to providing top tier security fastening solutions, as well as being committed to safeguarding the assets and interests of customers through unparalleled quality and service.

From humble beginnings in 1995, Hafren Fasteners Ltd has evolved into a trusted name in the industry, renowned for an extensive range of tamper resistant fasteners designed to meet the diverse needs of a global customer base. Its journey has been one of continuous improvement and adaptation, driven by a clear mission to deliver security and peace of mind through reliable and innovative fastening solutions.

Over the years, Hafren has expanded its product lines and services, staying ahead of the curve with cutting edge technology and a deep understanding of the evolving security challenges faced by various industries. Its dedication to excellence is reflected in the numerous partnerships and long-standing relationships the company has built with customers across the world.

“As we celebrate this significant milestone, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team, whose unwavering commitment and expertise have been the cornerstone of our success. We also thank our valued customers and partners for their trust and support, which have been instrumental in our growth and achievements,” comments the company. “Looking ahead, Hafren Fasteners remains committed to pushing the boundaries of security fastening technology and is excited to continue our journey, innovating and expanding our offerings, to better serve our customers and address the ever-changing landscape of security threats.”

Vossloh supplies rail fastening systems to China

Vossloh has been awarded a contract to supply rail fastening systems in connection with the construction of two high-speed lines in China.

One of the two lines connects the megacity of Xining with the metropolis of Chengdu, which has developed into the most important economic metropolis in western China alongside Chongqing. The second line runs between Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu province, and the city of Hezuo in the south-east of the province.

Vossloh Fastening Systems China Co Ltd, Vossloh AG’s subsidiary based in Kunshan, China, will be responsible for the execution of the order, with deliveries scheduled from 2025. “Our high-quality, innovative strength and systems expertise are long appreciated in China. Our technical expertise in the construction of high-speed lines is leading worldwide. I am pleased about the trust placed in Vossloh by our customers in China, which is once again underlined by the award of this important order,” states Oliver Schuster, CEO at Vossloh AG.

BOLTING: ANCHOR BOLTS, ASSEMBLED BOLTING, BSW HEXAGON BOLTS, BSW HEXAGON SETSCREWS, CUP SQUARE BOLTS, CUP SQUARE HEX BOLTS WITH NUTS, FINE PITCH HEXAGON BOLTS, FINE PITCH HEXAGON SETSCREWS, GUTTER BOLTS AND NUTS, HEXAGON BOLTS, HEXAGON SETSCREWS, SERRATED FLANGE BOLTS, UNSERRATED FLANGEBOLTS, ROOFING BOLTS AND NUTS, SQ SQ HOLDING DOWN BOLTS AND NUTS, UNC HEXAGON BOLTS, UNC HEXAGON SETSCREWS, UNF HEXAGON BOLTS, UNF HEXAGON SETSCREWS. NUTS: 4-PRONGED TEE NUTS, BSF FULL NUTS, BSW FULL NUTS, DOME NUTS, FINE PITCH FULL NUTS, FINE PITCH NYLON INSERT NUTS T TYPE, FULL NUTS, LOCK NUTS, NYLON INSERT FLANGE NUTS, NYLON INSERT NUTS P TYPE, NYLON INSERT NUTS T TYPE, SERRATED FLANGE NUTS, SQUARE NUTS, SQUARE PRESSED NUTS, SQUARE ROOFING NUTS, SQUARE WELD NUTS, STOVER LOCKING NUTS, UNC FULL NUTS, UNC LOCK NUTS, UNC NYLON INSERT NUTS, UNF FULL NUTS, UNF LOCK NUTS, UNF NYLON INSERT NUTS, UNSERRATED FLANGE NUTS, WELD NUTS, WING NUTS. WASHERS: EU WASHERS, EXTERNAL SERRATED WASHERS, EXTERNAL TOOTHLOCK WASHERS, FORM A WASHERS, FORM B WASHERS, FORM C WASHERS, FORM G WASHERS, INTERNAL SERRATED WASHERS, INTERNAL TOOTHLOCK WASHERS, MUDGUARD WASHERS, SINGLE-COIL RECTANGULAR SPRING WASHERS, SINGLE-COIL SQUARE SPRING WASHERS, SQUARE PLATE WASHERS, T3 HP WASHERS, T3 LP WASHERS, T4 HP WASHERS, WASHERS, CRINKLE WASHERS, FLAT WASHERS, SCREW CUP WASHERS. STUDDING: STUDDING CONNECTORS, STUDDING, ALL THREAD STUDS, BSW STUDDING, UNC STUDDING. MACHINE SCREWS: POZI COUNTERSUNK MACHINE SCREWS, POZI PAN MACHINE SCREWS, SLOTTED CHEESE MACHINE SCREWS, SLOTTED COUNTERSUNK MACHINE SCREWS, SLOTTED PAN MACHINE SCREWS. SELF-TAPPING SCREWS: SLOTTED PAN SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, POZI PAN SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, POZI PAN SELF-TAPPERS B POINT, POZI COUNTERSUNK SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, POZI COUNTERSUNK SELF-TAPPERS B POINT, POZI FLANGE SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, ROUND HAMMER DRIVE, INDENTED HEAD HEX SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, POZI RAISED COUNTERSUNK SELFTAPPERS AB POINT, POZI FLANGE SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, HEX SEMS AB COMPLETE WITH WASHER, ROUND HAMMER DRIVE TYPE U, POZI PAN SELFTAPPERS BT POINT TYPE 25, POZI COUNTERSUNK SUPERTITE SCREWS, HEX WASHER HEAD SUPERTITE SCREWS, POZI PAN SUPERTITE SCREWS. WOODSCREWS: GENERAL PURPOSE WOODSCREWS, CHIPPY SCREWS, SINGLE THREAD WOODSCREWS, TWIN-THREAD WOODSCREWS, COACH SCREWS, EXTERIOR WOODSCREWS, DECKING SCREWS, TIMBERDRIVE EXTERIOR WOODSCREWS, MIRROR SCREWS, CARCASS SCREWS, ANTIVANDAL SCREWS, DRYWALL SCREWS, SELF-DRILLING DRYWALL SCREWS. MATERIALS: CARBON STEEL, A2-304 STAINLESS STEEL, A4-316 STAINLESS STEEL, BRASS, PHOSPHOR BRONZE, COPPER, ALUMINIUM, METAL, NYLON, PLASTIC, RED FIBRE. FINISHES: SELF-COLOUR, BRIGHT ZINC PLATED, GALVANISED, ZINC AND YELLOWPLATED, BLACK JAPANNED, MAGSHO GREEN 7494C, GREEN ORGANIC COATING MAGNI 599, BLACK OXIDE, BLACK PHOSPHATE, ELECTRO BRASSED. GRADES: A2-50, A2-70, A2-70, A4-70, A2-304, A4-80, A4-316, SAE GRADE 5 , GRADE 4.6, GRADE 4.8, GRADE 8.8, GRADE 10.9 GRADE 12.9, GRADE R, GRADE NE2, GRADE 1, GRADE 2, GRADE A, CLASS 17H, CLASS 10, CLASS 12, CLASS 4, CLASS 6, CLASS 8, AISI 301. BOLTING: ANCHOR BOLTS, ASSEMBLED BOLTING, BSW HEXAGON BOLTS, BSW HEXAGON SETSCREWS, CUP SQUARE BOLTS, CUP SQUARE HEX BOLTS WITH NUTS, FINE PITCH HEXAGON BOLTS, FINE PITCH HEXAGON SETSCREWS, GUTTER BOLTS AND NUTS, HEXAGON BOLTS, HEXAGON SETSCREWS, SERRATED FLANGE BOLTS, UNSERRATED FLANGEBOLTS, ROOFING BOLTS AND NUTS, SQ SQ HOLDING DOWN BOLTS AND NUTS, UNC HEXAGON BOLTS, UNC HEXAGON SETSCREWS, UNF HEXAGON BOLTS, UNF HEXAGON SETSCREWS. NUTS: 4-PRONGED TEE NUTS, BSF FULL NUTS, BSW FULL NUTS, DOME NUTS, FINE PITCH FULL NUTS, FINE PITCH NYLON INSERT NUTS T TYPE, FULL NUTS, LOCK NUTS, NYLON INSERT FLANGE NUTS, NYLON INSERT NUTS P TYPE, NYLON INSERT NUTS T TYPE, SERRATED FLANGE NUTS, SQUARE NUTS, SQUARE PRESSED NUTS, SQUARE ROOFING NUTS, SQUARE WELD NUTS, STOVER LOCKING NUTS, UNC FULL NUTS, UNC LOCK NUTS, UNC NYLON INSERT NUTS, UNF FULL NUTS, UNF LOCK NUTS, UNF NYLON INSERT NUTS, UNSERRATED FLANGE NUTS, WELD NUTS, WING NUTS. WASHERS: EU WASHERS, EXTERNAL SERRATED WASHERS, EXTERNAL TOOTHLOCK WASHERS, FORM A WASHERS, FORM B WASHERS, FORM C WASHERS, FORM G WASHERS, INTERNAL SERRATED WASHERS, INTERNAL TOOTHLOCK WASHERS, MUDGUARD WASHERS, SINGLE-COIL RECTANGULAR SPRING WASHERS, SINGLE-COIL SQUARE SPRING WASHERS, SQUARE PLATE WASHERS, T3 HP WASHERS, T3 LP WASHERS, T4 HP WASHERS, WASHERS, CRINKLE WASHERS, FLAT WASHERS, SCREW CUP WASHERS. STUDDING: STUDDING CONNECTORS, STUDDING, ALL THREAD STUDS, BSW STUDDING, UNC STUDDING. MACHINE SCREWS: POZI COUNTERSUNK MACHINE SCREWS, POZI PAN MACHINE SCREWS, SLOTTED CHEESE MACHINE SCREWS, SLOTTED COUNTERSUNK MACHINE SCREWS, SLOTTED PAN MACHINE SCREWS. SELF-TAPPING SCREWS: SLOTTED PAN SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, POZI PAN SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, POZI PAN SELF-TAPPERS B POINT, POZI COUNTERSUNK SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, POZI COUNTERSUNK SELF-TAPPERS B POINT, POZI FLANGE SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, ROUND HAMMER DRIVE, INDENTED HEAD HEX SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, POZI RAISED COUNTERSUNK SELFTAPPERS AB POINT, POZI FLANGE SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, HEX SEMS AB COMPLETE WITH WASHER, ROUND HAMMER DRIVE TYPE U, POZI PAN SELFTAPPERS BT POINT TYPE 25, POZI COUNTERSUNK SUPERTITE SCREWS, HEX WASHER HEAD SUPERTITE SCREWS, POZI PAN SUPERTITE SCREWS. WOODSCREWS: GENERAL PURPOSE WOODSCREWS, CHIPPY SCREWS, SINGLE THREAD WOODSCREWS, TWIN-THREAD WOODSCREWS, COACH SCREWS, EXTERIOR WOODSCREWS, DECKING SCREWS, TIMBERDRIVE EXTERIOR WOODSCREWS, MIRROR SCREWS, CARCASS SCREWS, ANTIVANDAL SCREWS, DRYWALL SCREWS, SELF-DRILLING DRYWALL SCREWS. MATERIALS: CARBON STEEL, A2-304 STAINLESS STEEL, A4-316 STAINLESS STEEL, BRASS, PHOSPHOR BRONZE, COPPER, ALUMINIUM, METAL, NYLON, PLASTIC, RED FIBRE. FINISHES: SELF-COLOUR, BRIGHT ZINC PLATED, GALVANISED, ZINC AND YELLOWPLATED, BLACK JAPANNED, MAGSHO GREEN 7494C, GREEN ORGANIC COATING MAGNI 599, BLACK OXIDE, BLACK PHOSPHATE, ELECTRO BRASSED. GRADES: A2-50, A2-70, A2-70, A4-70, A2-304, A4-80, A4-316, SAE GRADE 5 , GRADE 4.6, GRADE 4.8, GRADE 8.8, GRADE 10.9 GRADE 12.9, GRADE R, GRADE NE2, GRADE 1, GRADE 2, GRADE A, CLASS 17H, CLASS 10, CLASS 12, CLASS 4, CLASS 6, CLASS 8, AISI 301. BOLTING: ANCHOR BOLTS, ASSEMBLED BOLTING, BSW HEXAGON BOLTS, BSW HEXAGON SETSCREWS, CUP SQUARE BOLTS, CUP SQUARE HEX BOLTS WITH NUTS, FINE PITCH HEXAGON BOLTS, FINE PITCH HEXAGON SETSCREWS, GUTTER BOLTS AND NUTS, HEXAGON BOLTS, HEXAGON SETSCREWS, SERRATED FLANGE BOLTS, UNSERRATED FLANGEBOLTS, ROOFING BOLTS AND NUTS, SQ SQ HOLDING DOWN BOLTS AND NUTS, UNC HEXAGON BOLTS, UNC HEXAGON SETSCREWS, UNF HEXAGON BOLTS, UNF HEXAGON SETSCREWS. NUTS: 4-PRONGED TEE NUTS, BSF FULL NUTS, BSW FULL NUTS, DOME NUTS, FINE PITCH FULL NUTS, FINE PITCH NYLON INSERT NUTS T TYPE, FULL NUTS, LOCK NUTS, NYLON INSERT FLANGE NUTS, NYLON INSERT NUTS P TYPE, NYLON INSERT NUTS T TYPE, SERRATED FLANGE NUTS, SQUARE NUTS, SQUARE PRESSED NUTS, SQUARE ROOFING NUTS, SQUARE WELD NUTS, STOVER LOCKING NUTS, UNC FULL NUTS, UNC LOCK NUTS, UNC NYLON INSERT NUTS, UNF FULL NUTS, UNF LOCK NUTS, UNF NYLON INSERT NUTS, UNSERRATED FLANGE NUTS, WELD NUTS, WING NUTS. WASHERS: EU WASHERS, EXTERNAL SERRATED WASHERS, EXTERNAL TOOTHLOCK WASHERS, FORM A WASHERS, FORM B WASHERS, FORM C WASHERS, FORM G WASHERS, INTERNAL SERRATED WASHERS, INTERNAL TOOTHLOCK WASHERS, MUDGUARD WASHERS, SINGLE-COIL RECTANGULAR SPRING WASHERS, SINGLE-COIL SQUARE SPRING WASHERS, SQUARE PLATE WASHERS, T3 HP WASHERS, T3 LP WASHERS, T4 HP WASHERS, WASHERS, CRINKLE WASHERS, FLAT WASHERS, SCREW CUP WASHERS. STUDDING: STUDDING CONNECTORS, STUDDING, ALL THREAD STUDS, BSW STUDDING, UNC STUDDING. MACHINE SCREWS: POZI COUNTERSUNK MACHINE SCREWS, POZI PAN MACHINE SCREWS, SLOTTED CHEESE MACHINE SCREWS, SLOTTED COUNTERSUNK MACHINE SCREWS, SLOTTED PAN MACHINE SCREWS. SELF-TAPPING SCREWS: SLOTTED PAN SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, POZI PAN SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, POZI PAN SELF-TAPPERS B POINT, POZI COUNTERSUNK SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, POZI COUNTERSUNK SELF-TAPPERS B POINT, POZI FLANGE SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, ROUND HAMMER DRIVE, INDENTED HEAD HEX SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, POZI RAISED COUNTERSUNK SELFTAPPERS AB POINT, POZI FLANGE SELF-TAPPERS AB POINT, HEX SEMS AB COMPLETE WITH WASHER, ROUND HAMMER DRIVE TYPE U, POZI PAN SELFTAPPERS BT POINT TYPE 25, POZI COUNTERSUNK SUPERTITE SCREWS, HEX WASHER HEAD SUPERTITE SCREWS, POZI PAN SUPERTITE SCREWS. WOODSCREWS: GENERAL PURPOSE WOODSCREWS, CHIPPY SCREWS, SINGLE THREAD WOODSCREWS, TWIN-THREAD WOODSCREWS, COACH SCREWS, EXTERIOR WOODSCREWS, DECKING SCREWS, TIMBERDRIVE EXTERIOR WOODSCREWS, MIRROR SCREWS, CARCASS SCREWS, ANTIVANDAL SCREWS, DRYWALL SCREWS, SELF-DRILLING DRYWALL SCREWS. MATERIALS: CARBON STEEL, A2-304 STAINLESS STEEL, A4-316 STAINLESS STEEL, BRASS, PHOSPHOR BRONZE, COPPER, ALUMINIUM, METAL, NYLON, PLASTIC, RED FIBRE. FINISHES: SELF-COLOUR, BRIGHT ZINC PLATED,

TRUSTED BY PROFESSIONALS FOR QUALITY AND RELIABILITY

BIGGER AND BETTER RANGE THAN EVER BEFORE

Lesjöfors achieves ISO medical industry certification

Lesjöfors Group’s manufacturing plant in Changzhou, China, has passed the certification process for ISO 13485 – the medical industry’s optimal medical device standard.

The medical industry is constantly evolving and growing, partly due to an aging population. Innovations in drug delivery devices and diagnosis are not only improving a generation’s quality of life, but also enabling individuals to self-monitor and self-medicate.

Crucially sitting at the heart of many of these devices, and performing a vital function within the device application, are springs and pressings.

Mikael Andersson, vice-president at Lesjöfors Asia, explains: “Lesjöfors is one of the largest global suppliers of springs and pressings to the medical sector and this recent certification in China takes us one step closer to achieving our strategic growth goals. Our ambition is to not only become the largest supplier but also to be seen as the preferred supplier of springs and pressings to the global medical industry. We recognise that market growth for medical devices is stronger in Asia than in Europe and the USA. Achieving the ISO 13485 medical certification is a comprehensive quality certification of our quality and manufacturing processes, enabling our China operation to be increasingly confident within the marketplace.”

The medical sector is known for developing projects worldwide, sourcing from a bank of global suppliers. Lesjöfors’ global footprint, with spring and pressing manufacture operations across Asia, America and Europe, offers a ‘one stop shop’ supply partner to meet the demands of the international medical marketplace.

Mikael continues: “We appreciate companies have different sourcing strategies. We want to simplify procurement. Lesjöfors’ global sales and manufacturing platform enables our customers to avoid supply chain risks, as we’re geographically positioned to offer efficiencies. Our network of operations delivers a ‘local’ supply chain, reducing lead time risks within the purchasing cycle.”

Record attendance at BIAFD Spring meeting 2024

With a record attendance of just over 100 delegates, The British and Irish Association of Fastener Distributors’ (BIAFD) Spring meeting enabled fastener professionals to network with one another and learn about important challenges currently facing the sector.

The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation took centre stage as Jamie Mcleod of Crowe UK gave an overview of the initiative and explained the differences between EU and UK CBAM. Jamie’s session was followed by Andreas Bertaggia of the European Fastener Distributor Association (EFDA) who detailed the work EFDA is doing to support its members. BIAFD Chairman Ian Doherty then shared the association’s position on UK CBAM.

“I’m pleased that BIAFD members were in support of our position. Having an aligned position is vitally important so I’d like to thank Crowe UK for its advice, EFDA for its input, and BIAFD members for their support,” commented Ian Doherty.

The final session of the day was delivered by David Kivlin of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). David explained the role of inspectors and how the HSE’s investigation process works. This was followed by an update from a member who had experienced an HSE investigation and what they had learnt from the incident. BIAFD’s next meeting will take place on Thursday 10th October 2024.

Continued expansion for Auto Fasteners

Auto Fasteners Ltd, a global supplier of fasteners and metal engineered components to the automotive sector, has expanded its presence by taking up 15,000 square feet (1,393.5m2 ) of space at a new industrial scheme.

UK-based Auto Fasteners, which already has five units in Southam, Warwickshire, has signed a 10 year lease on a trio of units at Sucham Park to support its continued expansion. It will provide warehouse, assembly, quality inspection and office space for the business, which supplies parts to Volvo Group, Scania, Daimler Group, Ford, Stellantis, VW Group, Aston Martin and Jaguar Land Rover to name but a few.

The business, which has 14 staff, formed by Scott Simpson in 2007 and moved to Southam in 2011, is a major exporter with 90% of its business exporting around the world, supplying OEMs with engineered fasteners and metal components of the highest quality.

“We’re growing with our long-term customers and gaining new customers too, which has contributed to year-on-year turnover growth and a need for more space to support our expansion. It gives us the option to keep expanding and explore new opportunities. We have business in North America, Brazil, India, Japan and all over Europe. We are currently going through the process of opening a facility in North America, but our headquarters will always remain here in Southam, Warwickshire,” highlights Scott Simpson, founder and managing director of Auto Fasteners.

Standard and non-standard items

Norm- und Standardteile

DIN, ISO, EN and others / und andere

Special parts and special materials

Sonderteile / Sonderwerkstoffe

chavesbao.com

NEWS IN BRIEF INDUSTRY

Revenues at DELO reach almost

€230 million

A manufacturer of high-tech adhesives and other multifunctional materials, DELO recorded sales revenue of €229 million in the last fiscal year ending 31 st March 2024.

This is an increase of 12% compared to the previous year, with South Korea and Mexico among the most dynamic markets. Overall, around half of sales were generated in Asia and the other half is divided between Europe and North America.

Deligo moves headquarters

Deligo has moved to a new headquarters, featuring a spacious 40,000 square foot (3,716m 2) warehouse, providing the necessary infrastructure for enhanced efficiency and a more dynamic operation.

In addition to the increased space, the new location is designed for speed and efficiency. State of the art processes and facilities will enable Deligo to process orders more quickly, leading to reduced turnaround times and smoother transactions.

Tension Control

Bolts lands

King’s award

UK-based manufacturer Tension Control Bolts Ltd has been recognised by His Majesty The King with a King’s Award for enterprise in the international trade category.

Currently exporting some 20 million bolts to over 30 countries around the world annually, Tension Control Bolts’ exports have increased by more than 700% in the last six years. The company’s biggest export markets include the Netherlands, Germany, Australia, France and Portugal.

CMZ acquires new plot for assembly plant

CMZ has formalised the purchase of a 22,000m 2 plot in the Aboro district, Berriz-Vizcaya, Spain, to build a new assembly plant. This area will be the setting for the manufacture of the new lathe model the company plans to bring to the market.

This new investment joins those made by the manufacturer in the last few years – with the intention of increasing capacity to 1,000 machines a year. The medium term objective is to consolidate production of 800 lathes a year.

Bufab

divests Bufab

Lann AB and Hallborn Metall AB

Bufab AB has signed an agreement to divest its manufacturing companies Bufab Lann AB and Hallborn Metall AB to Arbona Industri AB for a purchase price of SEK 230 million (€20 million) on a cash and debt free basis.

Lann and Hallborn are two companies that manufacture components through turning and milling. The divestment is in-line with Bufab’s previously communicated plan to evaluate strategic alternatives for the two companies, in light of the updated strategy presented by Bufab in December 2023.

Bon Precision increases capabilities

Bon Precision Engineering, a manufacturer of precision engineered components, has taken delivery of a Star SB-20R CNC sliding head machine to increase capacity and accommodate a growing order book.

The SB-20R CNC machine, purchased at the 2024 MACH Show, represents a significant advancement in Bon Precision Engineering’s manufacturing capabilities, adding to the machinery already in place at its UK-based production unit.

by Jason Sandefur, editor/publisher, GlobalFastenerNews.com

US triples tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminum

US President Joe Biden has announced new tariffs on goods from China that will see tariffs of between 25% – 100% being imposed on the value of the imported item, applicable to US$18 billion (€16.7 billion) worth of goods.

The tariffs extend to semiconductors, electric vehicles, batteries, critical minerals, solar cells, ship-to-shore cranes, medical products, as well as steel and aluminum. The tariffs for steel and aluminum were tripled to 25%, making it likely that imported fastener costs will increase. Section 301 tariffs were imposed in 2018 under the Trump administration on US$300 billion in Chinese products.

The tariffs include 25% duties on bolts, screws and other fasteners (HTS subheadings 7318.11.00 to 7318.29.00) manufactured in China and 15% on all Chinese iron and steel nuts (HTS subheading 7318.16.00).

The Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) list includes:

7318.11.00 – Iron or steel, coach screws.

7318.12.00 – Iron or steel, woodscrews (other than coach screws).

7318.13.00 – Iron or steel, screw hooks and screw rings.

7318.14.10 – Iron or steel, self-tapping screws, w/shanks or threads less than 6mm in diameter.

7318.14.50 – Iron or steel, self-tapping screws, w/shanks or threads 6mm or more in diameter.

LISI partners on AI for autonomous machining

LISI Group has strengthened its partnership with Watch-Out by acquiring a minority stake in its holding company. LISI Group and Watch-Out have partnered for nearly 20 years in the field of high precision machining and are developing a disruptive AI solution for fully autonomous machining.

LISI Group explains: “We have decided to support Watch-Out in the deployment of this turn-key autonomous precision machining solution now ready for scale-up.” The Watch-Out solution combines all conventional machining cycles in a perpetual loop with a specific Artificial Intelligence – Machining 4.0. It is a virtually self-sufficient production machine that constantly self-corrects according to data generated and captured in ‘real time’ on parts and tools.

More than just an improvement on previous generation machine tools, the Watch-Out solution “represents a dramatic change in industrial paradigm aimed at eliminating the element of randomness in the treatment of chronic failures in the production chain”, explains Emmanuel Neildez, CEO at LISI Aerospace.

LISI Aerospace is part of France-based LISI Group, which manufactures fasteners and assembly components for the aerospace, automotive and medical industries.

7318.15.20 – Iron or steel, screws and bolts and their nuts or washers, imported in the same shipment.

7318.15.40 – Iron or steel, machine screws (o/than cap screws), 9.5mm or more in length and 3.2mm in diameter.

7318.15.50 – Iron or steel, threaded studs.

7318.15.60 – Iron or steel, screws and bolts, nesoi, having shanks or threads less than 6mm in diameter.

7318.15.80 – Iron or steel, screws and bolts, nesoi, having shanks or threads 6mm or more in diameter.

7318.19.00 – Iron or steel, threaded articles similar to screws, bolts, nuts, coach screws and screw hooks, nesoi.

7318.21.00 – Iron or steel, spring washers and other lock washers.

7318.22.00 – Iron or steel, washers (other than spring washers and other lock washers).

7318.23.00 – Iron or steel, rivets.

7318.24.00 – Iron or steel, cotters and cotter pins.

7318.29.00 – Iron or steel, non threaded articles similar to rivets, cotters, cotter pins, washers and spring washers.

42nd Mid-West trade show takes place in August

The Mid-West Fastener Association will hold its 42 nd annual trade show and 71 st annual golf outing during FSTNR Week 2024, which will take place from 18 th – 23 rd August at the Marriott Lincolnshire Resort, 18 miles north of Chicago O’Hare International Airport.

There will be plant tours in the Chicago area and a welcome reception from 5:30pm to 7:30pm on Monday 19th August. The tabletop trade show will be from 1pm to 6pm on Tuesday 20th August followed by the traditional Fastener Bash until 7pm.

MWFA’s 71 st annual golf outing will be on Wednesday 21 st August. An educational session on fastener failures is scheduled for Tuesday morning and Fastener Training Week for Monday through to Friday.

Industrial vending market to top US$2.5 billion by 2029

The global industrial vending machine market is expected to grow from US$1.6 billion in 2024 to US$2.5 billion (€2.3 billion) by 2029, at a CAGR of 10.1%, according to a Markets & Markets report.

The report analyzed the projected value of industrial vending machines by type (vertical lift, coil, carousescale, locker or drawer) and found that the carousel vending machine is expected to experience the most growth in value due to its ability to have compartments of various sizes and the fact that it can provide access to products by item, employee or designation. Additionally, the carousel machine has fewer moving parts, reducing overall maintenance cost.

The report also revealed that the aerospace segment is expected to be one of the major adopters of industrial vending machine technology, as a way to reduce foreign object debris (FOD). These machines will keep track of items and manage critical assets, such as radios, scanners and airport ramp operations.

Europe is showing significant growth in adopting industrial vending machines. There is also a growing emphasis on sustainability within the UK manufacturing sector. Vending machines can minimize waste and ensuring optimal utilization of resources.

The UK government has initiatives promoting Industry 4.0 adoption in manufacturing. This includes potential funding or tax breaks for companies with industrial vending machines that contribute to a more connected and automated factory environment.

Industrial vending machines are finding applications beyond traditional manufacturing sectors, such as automotive or aerospace – they are also being used in healthcare and construction sites.

IFI announces 12th edition of fastener standards book

The Industrial Fasteners Institute (IFI) has published the 12 th edition of the IFI Book of Fastener Standards, which serves as the industry’s resource and is a compilation of the most commonly used fastener standards for inch fasteners and non-ISO metric fasteners.

In addition to the book’s 96 standards, 30 of which are updated, the latest edition now includes IFI 171, which covers thread dimensions for the assembly of bolts, studs and nuts in the steel construction industry.

The 12 th edition is US$675 and can be ordered online (indfast.org/book). It represents 83 years of continuous development in fastener standards since the first edition was published in 1941 and has been distributed to manufacturing and construction interests throughout the world.

“IFI’s Book of Fastener Standards is known throughout the world as a ‘go to’ resource and is really unique because it combines the most requested fastener standards from ASTM, ASME, SAE and IFI in one convenient

resource,” highlights Salim Brahimi, IFI’s director of engineering and technology. “It also represents tremendous cost savings, because purchasing those standards separately would cost more than US$3,000. It would also require someone to source and organize the standards for engineering or quality personnel so the book saves you time.”

In addition to the Book of Fastener Standards, IFI also offers the IFI Technology Connection, which is an online tool that utilizes the latest data found in the standards to generate tables and specification sheets for requested parts that can be used by sales, engineering and quality professionals. IFI also hosts numerous education and training events throughout the year that are available to the public through the IFI website.

Sider heads sourcing for Aeromed

Aerospace distributor Aeromed Group has named Todd Sider, who has over 30 years of experience in the aerospace and commercial markets, as executive director for strategic sourcing.

Todd has worked for several companies within the fastener sector, including Century Fasteners Corp, Heads & Threads International, Federal Bolt & Nut Supply and Reynolds Fasteners.

Declan Grant, president at Aeromed Group, noted Sider’s experience in strategic sourcing and supply chain management will be “instrumental in driving our procurement initiatives a developing and growing with our strategic partners”. North Carolina-based Aeromed is an alliance of aerospace distribution companies.

by Fastener World Inc www.fastener-world.com

China and Taiwan top five in most carbon intensive export ranking

According to statistics obtained through the European Commission, China is the top exporter of carbon intensive products with more than 25,000 entries, and Taiwan ranked fifth with between 5,000 and 6,000 entries.

The US ranked second with about 10,000 entries, the UK third with around 7,000 to 8,000 entries, and Turkey fourth with around 6,000 to 7,000 entries. India ranked sixth ranging between 5,000 and 6,000 entries.

From the data, it is clear that China’s carbon intensive export entries are more than double those of the US and the UK and are nearly five times those of Taiwan and India. This is partially reflected in the fact that the value of China’s exports to the EU is the highest.

Taiwan, which ranks eighth in the world in terms of export value, also has a high value of exports to the EU. In addition, fasteners are the top downstream steel product category exported from Taiwan and are mostly produced by several SMEs.

Sheh Kai goes green

Sheh Kai Precision is reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption by improving manufacturing processes, increasing resource utilisation efficiency, and using cleaner manufacturing technologies.

Currently Sheh Kai uses energy efficient air compressors to improve the insulation performance of building structures, and plans to use more energy efficient equipment and machines. The company has also said it has completed carbon inventory and will apply for certification to verify the inventory data.

“Stock level is still high at European customers’ locations, but the customers are slowly coming back to purchase from Taiwan. Sheh Kai is using the void to upgrade our ERP system and equipment, focusing on carbon reduction and carbon inventory of the manufacturing process, to make full preparations for the future implementation of full CBAM and economic recovery,” comments Sheh Kai Precision Co Ltd.

In addition, the Taiwanese government has attached great importance to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation. Around 5,000 out of the 13,000 reports submitted by local EU importers came from Taiwan. However, it is worrisome that the completion rate of the first submission is less than 10%, as many EU local importers are unfamiliar with their reporting obligations. If they do not complete the submission by mid-July 2024, they will face fines up to €50 per tonne of carbon emission.

The European Commission has said it will simplify the system to make it easier for them to operate. However, it is still necessary for manufacturers who are most familiar with their own carbon emissions to work with EU importers to complete the submission smoothly.

Kanon Precision enters new markets

With an average monthly capacity of 3 million pieces, Kanon Precision Co Ltd, a specialist in the customisation of CNC precision lathe machined parts, has recently made several investments including new machinery to enter new markets –in particular Europe and America.

Recognising that it is an inevitable trend for factories to go international and communicate directly with customers face-toface, Kanon began its transformation in the second half of 2022. In addition to installing several CNC sliding/fixed head processing machines to meet different needs, its plant has recently added six computerised composite machines and two optical sorting machines to improve the process and control the quality. The company has also invested in Japanese Nomura’s full complex machining equipment, which is capable of completing sophisticated processing such as drilling and tapping holes on small sized turning products with precision tolerances.

“The introduction of the composite machines allows us to complete the drilling and milling process with a single machine, avoiding the displacement error caused by multiple clamping of workpieces between different machines, and realising the results of high precision and efficiency,” comments the company.

In 2025, Kanon will also participate at Fastener Fair Global in Germany, with the hope to promote its product technology and cooperate with more customers in developing new products.

by China Fastener Magazine

Tengda Technology successfully listed on Shenzhen Stock Exchange

Shandong Tengda Fasten Tech Co Ltd, a Chinese stainless steel fastener manufacturer, successfully conducted its initial public offering (IPO) on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (SZSE), signifying a milestone in China’s fastener industry for 2024 by becoming the first listed fastener enterprise of the year.

In the listing hall of SZSE, Chairman Chen Peijun, along with various leaders and distinguished guests, jointly witnessed the historic moment of the company ringing the bell, ushering in new opportunities for the development of China’s stainless steel fastener industry.

Since its inception, Tengda Technology has been dedicated to the research, production and sales of stainless steel fastener products, including bolts, nuts, screws, washers, etc. The IPO raised approximately Rmb849 million (€108.7 million), which is planned to be used for the expansion and technical transformation of stainless steel fasteners; the expansion of fastener product lines and the construction of supporting production lines; the construction of production and intelligent storage bases for stainless steel fasteners; as well as the replenishment of working capital.

“Looking ahead, Tengda Technology will always maintain a humble and respectful attitude towards the industry, steadfastly advancing towards the goal of becoming a world renowned stainless steel fastener manufacturer, sales integrator, and provider of specialised fastener technology solutions,” commented Chairman Chen.

Antarctic bolts –made in China

In the vast expanse of the southernmost ice fields on Earth, China is actively constructing its fifth Antarctic research station, the Ross Sea New Station. Over 70,000 sets of high strength bolts made in China played a crucial role in this process. These bolts not only had to withstand extreme cold, but also face the challenges of strong winds, ice and snow.

These Antarctic bolts are not ordinary fasteners, they are specially designed and manufactured fasteners. Yang Zhaojun, the general manager of a fastener enterprise in Anhui, said that these steel bars are actually special weather resistant steel, which contains more than a dozen special elements compared to ordinary steel. These special elements enhance the steel’s cold resistance and toughness, enabling it to maintain stable performance in extremely low temperature environments.

Moreover, the manufacturing process of these bolts is highly rigorous. The warm forging process ensures the steel does not crack during processing. Subsequently, these formed bolts undergo heat treatment and chemical treatment to enhance their weather resistance and delayed cracking resistance. Among every 3,000 sets of bolts, eight sets are randomly selected for impact performance testing in simulated extreme cold conditions to ensure their reliability.

Behind a seemingly ordinary bolt lies the dedication and intelligence of research teams and workers. It is these carefully crafted Antarctic bolts that have become the key cornerstone –ensuring the sturdiness and durability of the steel structure of the Ross Sea New Station and making outstanding contributions to China’s Antarctic scientific exploration.

Fastener experts gather in Yongnian

The third session of the First Membership Conference of the Yongnian Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export took place at the Yongnian Fastener Expo Centre, China, at the beginning of the year – bringing together experts from the hardware and fastener industries from all over the country, to collectively explore and embark on a new chapter in the development of Yongnian’s foreign trade.

In attendance at the event was Zhang Ning, the chief of Yongnian District, who delivered a significant address. He emphasised the crucial role of the Chamber in driving regional economic development and expressed high expectations for future development. He affirmed the government’s commitment to further supporting the Chamber’s initiatives, providing more policy and resource support for Member enterprises, and jointly propelling the economic prosperity of Yongnian District.

Yang Zhuqiang, president of the Yongnian Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export, presented a comprehensive summary of the work in 2023 and outlined the work plan for 2024. She meticulously reviewed the outstanding achievements of the Chamber over the past year and acknowledged the remarkable results achieved through the collaborative efforts of Chamber Members under the guidance of the Yongnian District Committee, District Government and District Commerce Bureau.

Looking ahead, the Chamber will continue to strengthen organisational development, expand its scale, enhance cohesion, and better serve its Member enterprises – contributing to the global influence of ‘Yongnian manufacturing.’

Sérgio

editor, Revista do Parafuso, www.revistadoparafuso.com.br

Is

the desire for passenger cars in decline?

With motorcycle production returning to 2014 levels in Brazil, and the automotive sector remaining stagnant, is there a fundamental change in consumer behaviour and is owning a car declining in consumers’ ‘hierarchy of desires’?

Around 2013, when the Uber service was still not widespread in Brazil, an article in the Folha de S.Paulo newspaper recommended: “If you use your passenger car for less than 26km/day, sell it and use a regular taxi, a very expensive service in these times!”

By the end of 2014, the last major year before a series of economic crises, the Brazilian passenger car, truck and bus industry produced 3.15 million units (2.978 million passenger vehicles), against the 2.324 million units (2.041 million passenger vehicles) in 2023 – with trucks and buses representing around 5.5% of the total. Meanwhile, in 2023, 1.573 million motorcycles were manufactured, almost the same as in 2014, with 1.517 million units produced – with

HEICO names Fixoved as new distributor in Brazil

HEICO Group, a German specialist in bolt securing elements, pre-tensioning systems and cold forged parts, has named Fixoved as a new distributor in the Brazilian market.

Founded more than 120 years ago, HEICO Group has a wide range of lines, including the HEICO-LOCK ® wedge locking system, HEICOTEC ® tensioning system and HEICO-FORM cold forged parts.

In April 2023 executives from HEICO met with representatives of Fixoved to confirm the new partnership. Since 1986, Fixoved Fixação e Vedação Ltda has acted as a sales agent for industrial metallic components, such as fasteners and items to use on sealing systems, establishing itself as a C-parts supplier.

Located in São Bernardo do Campo City, Brazil, Fixoved provides services and inventory management to manufacturing lines, with a portfolio made up of over 15,000 items.

the growth attributable to the multiplication of delivery services using motorcycles.

This means that over the last decade, the number of vehicles produced in Brazil has stagnated with only minimal, if any, growth. Furthermore, if mobility by electrified vehicles goes ahead, the demand for fasteners will decrease even further, which raises more questions for fastener manufacturers.

Add to this the high costs of owning a car – taxes, insurance, parking, as well as penalty fines for speeding, etc – is it any wonder the younger generation are refraining from buying a car, at least in Brazil. Are we witnessing a change in consumer behaviour, where owning a car may be fast declining on the ‘hierarchy of desires’?.

Júlio Milko has passed away

Júlio Milko, owner of Metalac SPS – a Precision Castparts Corp subsidiary since 2003, passed away on 5 th April 2024. Born in Hungary, Milko was living in Sorocaba City, Brazil.

Júlio was known within the Brazilian fastener market and was part of the group, during the first half of the 1960s, that was involved in the consolidation of the Sinpa union – the local fastener manufacturers’ association, in addition to other activities outside the sector – especially in the social sector.

FEIMEC a success

More than 65,000 visitors attended FEIMEC –a machinery and tools fair that took place from 7th – 11th May in the São Paulo Expo events pavilion –located in São Paulo City, SP, Brazil.

An acronym for ‘fair and mechanics’ (feira e mecânica), FEIMEC covered 80,000m² of exhibition space, with more than 1,100 international brands, made up of from 37 different industrially robust nations, including Germany, China, India, and others.

FEIMEC included leading agents active in every aspect of the industrial sector, including machinery, tooling, as well as the most recent technological advances in metal mechanical production –including productive processes such as abrasion, forging (cold and hot), cutting, drilling, folding, gluing, machining and welding.

The next edition of FEIMEC will take place from 5 th – 9th May 2026.

From left to right: Sales Assistant Lorenzo Ronzani and CEO Alex Larsen of Fixoved, CEO Jan Heimann and Head of Marketing and Sales Tobias Grobe of HEICO Group, as well as Nelio Diehl, HEICO Brazil national manager

Strengthening the supply chain for distributors in Europe

With the ongoing challenges within the global fastener industry, and wider global markets, it has never been more important for businesses to adapt quickly and efficiently to meet the needs of customers. That’s why global fastener distributor Fastbolt is preparing to be one of the first companies worldwide to pilot an automated compact storage system to further increase its efficiency.

Ekkehard Beermann, managing director at Fastbolt Group, explains: “We see various trends in these times of constant change and one challenge we have been experiencing for some years now is recruiting qualified labour for all sectors of our company. Although we focus on promoting young talents by offering various education and training models for commercial, logistics and IT job profiles, external recruiting is not easy. In our market position, as an importing wholesaler, efficiency in handling goods receipts and order preparation is likely to be one of the keys to success in the future and without automation we will not be able to increase our output in the years to come –partly also because skilled logistics staff are extremely hard to find on the employment market. With that in mind we decided to work with proven external logistics experts on a consultancy project on how we could benefit from a much higher level of technology and automation at our central warehouse

The first stage of this long-term consultancy project included an extension of Fastbolt’s warehouse and the installation of an innovative automatic bin storage system – the Jungheinrich PowerCube.

Being only the second company in the world installing this new automated compact storage system, Fastbolt is very excited to be part of the technical evolution of intralogistics.”

The Jungheinrich PowerCube will add 20,000 bin locations to Fastbolt’s current 20,000 manual pallet locations, increasing the efficiency of handling smaller quantities and a wider range of stock items – whilst also increasing overall storage capacity by at least 30% as smaller volumes will be transferred from pallets to bins.

“Being only the second company in the world installing this new automated compact storage system, Fastbolt is very excited to be a pilot customer and therefore part of the technical evolution of intralogistics,” states Ekkehard. “This first step into automation will certainly not be our last and we now have a clear idea on what areas of our intralogistics need further technological support to be more efficient in the future.”

The Jungheinrich PowerCube will create a more ergonomic workplace for Fastbolt’s staff and increase work safety, but at the same time will free up pallet locations creating room for stock range extensions, something Ekkehard believes to be key in light of the current market challenges impacting the fastener industry.

“With all the exceptional but very significant market developments and changes in the past three to four years – such as the Covid-19 pandemic, the introduction of anti-dumping duties against China for carbon steel fasteners, the Russian attack on Ukraine, with all its consequences to European economies, as well as the extremely volatile market for sea freight – the main challenge for the past two years has been adapting the business to these drastic changes, which is certainly very demanding.”

Managing CBAM

Another regulatory change has been the recent introduction of CBAM regulations – something that, as a business trading mostly standard fasteners that have traditionally been sourced in many different supply markets outside the EU, will have a massive impact for Fastbolt Group. “It came as a surprise for the entire industry that fasteners were added to CBAM at the last minute, with only very little preparation time,” explains Ekkehard. “While I fully support the general principles behind CBAM of trying to reduce carbon emissions worldwide, rather than only in Europe, I still see the inclusion of fasteners as being very problematic for our industry and creating massive risks for the European economy as a whole.”

He continues: “Looking at the regulation itself it becomes obvious that it had been designed for upstream products and certainly not for complex downstream products such as fasteners – with multi-stage production processes and traded through fragmented supply chains. The small to medium sized, but extremely relevant, manufacturers of fasteners all over Asia are having severe problems obtaining and providing the CBAM relevant emission data, which puts us importers under extreme pressure as we need to know and report specific emission data in order to import the product. Therefore in our view, fasteners should be taken out of the CBAM product scope, as the system is far too complex for our product and its supply chain. In any case it would have been much more realistic to exclusively focus on the CBAM based compensation of emissions caused by the production of the steel raw material in comparatively only very few different steel mills. It is these emissions anyway that count for the vast majority of total emissions caused by the production of a fastener. Relevant compensation would still be achieved while the unnecessary collection of minor but very detailed, as well as hard to collect and verify, emission values caused within thousands of different fastener manufacturing places outside the EU could be set aside. The effort of collecting, reporting and monitoring this particular data by far outweighs its relevance.”

Ekkehard continues: “At Fastbolt we are working with a high-level of effort to handle CBAM and its consequences to our business. However, we also know that we will not be able to place orders anymore to suppliers that are not able to provide the required data. Looking at the current stage of CBAM it becomes a certainty that it will therefore have a massive negative impact on the fastener supply for the European economy. As it is not too late yet, we still hope that fasteners can be taken out of CBAM, or at least necessary amendments to the regulation can still be made by the EU during the current transition period so that damages to our industry can be avoided.”

Committed to customers

To continue trading in an extremely competitive and challenging market environment, Fastbolt Group has a commitment to quality to ensure

consistency on all levels of activity. The company maintains an increasing amount of high-quality stock in its warehouses in Germany, the UK, and Portugal, as well as having strong relationships with competent supply partners all over Asia, looked after and supported by its own Asian sourcing team.

Exclusively supplying distributors, Fastbolt also offers customers efficient digital supply solutions from EDI via API up to FBonline, its in-house developed eCommerce solution that was introduced almost 20 years ago and has been developed consistently over the years. “Our services offered to distributors go far beyond just providing a comprehensive and competitive range of products,” proudly states Ekkehard. “We strive to be the best choice supplier for distributors – offering the best overall package. The need to be extremely efficient, error-free, reliable and innovative is huge. There is constantly more data involved and a higher level of system integration required in order to maximise the advantages and to comply with an increasing level of regulatory demand.”

He adds: “We have continued to invest in systems, more advanced inspection equipment and machinery, as well as spend more and take additional time to ensure we are a highly qualified supplier to distributors and continue to be in the years to come. In an increasingly complex global trading environment of more demanding regulations and documentation requirements, Fastbolt has the infrastructure, competence and processes to strengthen the supply chain for distributors in Europe.”

www.fastbolt.com

The Jungheinrich PowerCube will add 20,000 bin locations to Fastbolt’s current 20,000 manual pallet locations

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

exclusive insights from distributors and associations

EFDA rises to the challenge

The European Fastener Distributor Association (EFDA) is increasingly developing into a focal point for European fastener distribution, with its members being able to meet and exchange ideas more often than ever before in recent years.

New topics such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation are increasing the need for information and dialogue, and through webinars

EFDA has been able to provide added value to many companies – with the good and pragmatic exchange between member organisations, and the companies, paying off for the entire European fastener distribution industry. In addition, EFDA has created the CBAM Working Group, set-up in December last year, which has also been able to produce very useful documents and assistance for members.

“Our members benefit from regular information from EFDA on trade policy measures from the European Commission, such as anti-dumping, or CBAM and other legal requirements,” points out Andreas Bertaggia, EFDA president. “This gives them not only expertise and security, but we can often provide the companies with a realistic scenario of what they need to prepare for in the coming weeks and months. The opinion of experts from the EFDA Task Force is certainly a better guide than rumours on the world markets.”

Andreas continues: “CBAM represents a major challenge for our industry. It is a very ambitious EU project, whose goal of tackling climate change we share, but which is not yet fully developed. Nine months into the transition period, it is obvious that CBAM was not developed for downstream products such as fasteners, but for the import of raw materials. In addition, importers of fasteners under CN Code 7318 are at a significant disadvantage compared to importers of comparable products and especially compared to fastener manufacturers in the EU. This will lead to a clear financial disadvantage, especially from 2026, when importers will have to purchase certificates for emissions. This discrimination must end. The best solution would be to remove fasteners from the scope of CBAM. The EU legislator’s decision to include fasteners in CBAM at the last moment was not well thought out.”

From the outset, EFDA has informed its members and companies about CBAM and the resulting obligations for importers, and its impact on the fastener trade, through webinars, guidelines and a regular information service. The EFDA Working Group has also created a template that suppliers outside the EU can use to provide its members with the required data for their quarterly reports.

“The EFDA template is significantly leaner and less complex than the Commission’s template. Nevertheless, the response rate is still far from what would be required to successfully implement CBAM,” explains Andreas. “According to a survey of our members, only 12% of suppliers provide reasonably complete data – including concrete emission values. Without the use of default values even after 1 st July 2024, our member companies will not be able to submit their quarterly reports. We have made our position clear to the European Commission.”

In order to support European fastener distributors in the implementation of CBAM, EFDA is also active outside the EU –supporting its partner associations in Asia and America so that suppliers there can fulfil the requirements of CBAM and provide EU importers with the necessary data.

“We will do everything we can to support our members, and their member companies, in continuing their business successfully and we will lobby the EU to ensure that gross errors in CBAM are eliminated,” states Andreas. “The issues of sustainability and the increasing regulation of the supply chain, such as CBAM, are becoming an ever-greater challenge for both small and large companies in the fastener distribution industry. At EFDA we look to address these issues, inform our members at an early stage, get involved in legislative processes and support companies in implementing the requirements. Whether it’s the customer’s desire for a carbon footprint or the European Union’s obligations through CBAM, our member companies are rising to the challenge.“

www.efda-fastenerdistributors.org

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

Excellence in stainless steel supply

Italian wholesaler King SpA – a ‘one stop shop’ for high-quality, reliable and durable stainless steel fasteners – is currently in the midst of a digital transformation, with the company investing to improve its business processes and provide a better service to customers.

For more than 50 years King has been at the forefront of the standard stainless steel fasteners and bolts market, steadily growing in Italy, and abroad, thanks to the quality of its products and the speed at which it responds to requests.

“Working to fully meet the expectations of each individual customer is definitely challenging,” states the management of King SpA. “However, achieving the goal is almost more satisfying than finalising the business itself, which becomes the natural consequence once the customer has the solution they need.”

Guided by this realisation, King has looked to bring to life a management system designed in-house and fine-tuned specifically to ensure 100% satisfaction of each and every customer. “The program is calibrated to well defined and strict corporate standards but tailored to the personal expectations and needs of each individual customer,” underlines the management. “In addition, our bolts, nuts, screws, and other stainless steel supplies, are designed with high-quality materials and meet strict manufacturing standards.”

To add to this, and with a view to maximise customer satisfaction, King has also initiated a total quality programme to ensure the excellence of the products it offers, including chemical and dimensional aspects. “This ensures that each product undergoes a dimensional analysis that certifies its adequate compliance with the reference standards in terms of lengths, diameters, impressions, and threads, with each product analysed with an X-ray spectrometer that allows the detection of the main chemical elements that compose them,” points out the management. “This means that every product marketed by King is guaranteed to be 100% stainless steel and DIN compliant.”

In an ever changing market, where technology occupies a primary place in customer satisfaction, and where offering a quality product in a short time has become a prerequisite, King has also developed an online

For more than 50 years King has been at the forefront of the standard stainless steel fasteners and bolts market…”

system for accessing a shortlist of customised services. This includes an online shop for purchasing products and requesting quotations – with the aim of getting closer to its customers and creating a new system that could be the frontier of online sales; a tracking system for purchased products; a recall system for all documentation when reconstructing the procurement history; as well as a system for viewing the statistical trend of orders.

The Italian wholesaler is also making significant investments in order to increase its product range, as well as improve its automation in the search for the best logistical performance. “We have introduced new MRP and CRM systems that are allowing us to grow significantly, which has also led to us hiring many new professionals,” mentions the management. “We are able to further meet the needs of our customers thanks to our digital transformation and investments, especially within our sales department, which has allowed us to grow significantly. As a business we will continue to work hard, adapt to changes whilst adopting new technologies, as well as constantly invest to improve our performance, products and service.”

www.king-inox.com

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

Adapting to the modern age

In recent years, data, eCommerce and automation have played an increasingly larger role in the global fastener distribution market. Assistant Editor Becca England visited Apex Stainless Fasteners to find out how the UK-based company has been actively investing in all of these areas, to continue to offer its customers the highest level of service, while setting the company up for future success.

With the future in mind, Apex has implemented numerous changes – resulting in more investment in the last year than in the previous two decades of the company’s history. The first of these changes took place in 2023 with the company opting to change its ERP system to gain more efficiency in its operations. This change has enabled the business to operate more efficiently by using an eWMS system and several EDI integrations.

With a focus on continuing to improve its operational effectiveness, a walkway system has also been implemented in Apex’s warehouse to enable multiple orders to be picked simultaneously, making it easier for the company to handle peaks in demand.

Commenting on the role of automation in the fastener distribution market, David Vahter, managing director of Apex Stainless Fasteners Ltd, said: “To me the UK market has traditionally been symbolised with throwing one more pair of hands on it. However, having spent the majority of my working life in Sweden, Denmark and Norway you can see the difference where countries with higher wages for labour are in their automation journey. That is why at Apex we have automated parts of our operation, which has been a contributing factor to catching up with demand, as well as increasing our output during 2024.”

He continues: “With automation being key for the future, UK companies will need to balance the other variables influencing the market such as inflation and higher interest rates, in order for automation to begin to play a much bigger role in more traditional industries.”

Understanding CBAM

Arguably the biggest topic for Europe at the moment is CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism), a regulation which is set to hit UK businesses hard as it impacts both the import and export of goods. In order to aid Apex with the added administration and legislation, the

company has hired a sustainability and compliance manager to try and help bridge the gap between EU legislation and Far East manufacturers.

David remarks: “CBAM is definitely a pain due to the level of bureaucracy involved. In essence, we are in favour of CBAM but it is not well executed from the EU. We are applying a level of unnecessary bureaucracy and administration into our supply chain who do not understand it and this leaves distributors in the middle trying to translate. BREXIT is also a complicating factor in all of this and is a double whammy for many UK businesses that are both importing and exporting goods. However ultimately, CBAM is here to stay and there is no way around it.”

Investing for the future

Further investment from the company includes a new 67,000 square foot premises in Birmingham, larger than any other unit currently owned by the company, which will be fully operational by the end of the year. The new warehouse will have a packing and conveyor belting system, with different racking and shelving solutions installed, dependant on the type of goods that are being picked. Offices are also currently being fitted, as well as a canteen and a quality lab.

With the aim of further improving its services, Apex has also made an active investment in the development of a new eCommerce website for the business, to future-proof the company in terms of its readiness to adopt more digital solutions.

David continues: “We are and have been seeing a new trend of customers wanting to interact digitally instead of the traditional method of picking up the phone. They want an eCommerce option together with a quick delivery, a competitive price, a good service and a wide range. PreCovid we didn’t see this customer behaviour, however we need to adapt to meet customers’ needs, which is why we are investing in eCommerce.”

Additionally, Apex has hired more staff, with the company employing a new purchasing manager, an eCommerce marketing manager and an eCommerce executive. The company also plans to introduce a new brand identity, more suitable for use in digital touchpoints, and designed to better represent a more forward-thinking and innovative Apex Stainless Fasteners fit for the future. www.apexstainless.com

ADEFI and Spanish distribution

Here we speak to Jorge Cámara, president of ADEFI (Asociación de Distribuidores Españoles de Fijaciones) in Spain, about what is happening within the Spanish fastener market and how the association looks to support its members.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine last published its fastener distribution feature in 2022. How has the association and the Spanish fastener market developed in the last two years?

“At the Spanish ADEFI association we have welcomed two new members in the last two years, which takes us to twelve members in total. As an association we are always looking to open our doors to new companies and ensure we are representing the relevant fastener wholesalers and distributors in the Spanish market.

Through ADEFI we look to share information about news and diverse factors around our sector. The association also enables us to find meeting points, where we can discuss common issues, such as the organisational, managing and structural side of the market, which helps us feel like we are all in the same boat, even if we are competitors. The EFDA communications and regulatory issues that may impact or condition our business have also become the main driver feeding us weekly.

I believe it makes a difference being part of a team and being updated to better adapt your company – walking with companions and not alone, providing greater security and certainty. Finally, it gives a more solid voice inside and outside the country. That is why I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our members for their support and confidence.

When it comes to the Spanish market we have seen a growth in sales figures for members in recent years, even with a disturbing cannibalisation trend in traditional channels of supply. The market has also seen a more demanding industry in regards to quality parameters and requirements, which has helped improve standards and service.”

A

big topic at the moment is the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation. How do you believe it will impact the distribution sector and what measures are your members putting in place?

“The CBAM regulation is already impacting our purchasing departments and the purchasing process itself, such as increasing bureaucracy, requiring huge time and resources spent in tracing, as well as the effort needed for following up and fulfilling registers and requirements by the European Commission.

Through ADEFI we look to share information about news and diverse factors around our sector.”

Unfortunately, fasteners were included at the last moment, when other semi-finished products were not. Whilst carbon emission control may be necessary, improvement takes time and we are still adapting to this new scenario that will be fully implemented from 2026. We are only just understanding the depth of this issue, for instance the serious difficulty in receiving and collecting data from manufacturers – the European Commission has not even been able yet to calculate emissions at origin. This means costs are being absorbed by importers and not yet transferred into the product price term to customers, who seem not to be really aware of the regulation.

This is why simplifying template data documents and making the registrations for all importers easier and comprehensive, as well as extending default values, is the focus for EFDA and its members – the national associations such as ADEFI.”

Anti-dumping duties are also still in force on certain products from China. What impact is this having on the market?

“When anti-dumping was introduced, it coincided with the historic wave of disruptions in the supply chain and inflation in products – due to the Covid-19 pandemic earthquake. The impact and shocks are probably still being shown and felt now, when current wealth of European GDP and demand are suffering.

Geopolitical tensions and economic protectionism measure strategies regarding both the USA and EU versus China have an impact of damaging trade, making it tough for Chinese fastener companies as both markets are core for them. We are no strangers to these

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

turbulences; for European fastener companies China is more than an important partner in capacity and cooperation. This means that due diligence is very much needed in this period, even more so when the river brings rumours of circumvention inside China, meaning again huge risks for European importers.”

Sustainability is a big driver in the market –how are your members working towards a sustainable future?

“Each member is conscious to a lesser or greater extent to the speed in applying its environmental and social policies and creating value when feeding different industrial sectors. We also have to improve our purpose and policy as a body – a common goal of survival, caring for supply channels from origin to end user and in what we may handle; progressing our present and future standards and services; building through fasteners a better and more developed industry.

An area that is intimately linked to sustainability and having a particular impact on the fastener sector is the lack of human resources and the growth of automation. Both topics are in the mind and in the message of any Spanish or European person or company, not only in the fastener sector. Finding skilled or talented crew and implementing convenient automation in time are big concerns for our companies.”

What do you see as being the big trends for the fastener industry? How can your members benefit from these trends?

“Only the past can be predicted. The rollercoaster of recent years is a lesson and is evidence that we must adapt to unexpected and

The rollercoaster of recent years is a lesson and is evidence that we must adapt to unexpected and challenging situations connected to any crisis that shakes the world and disrupts markets.”

challenging situations connected to any crisis that shakes the world and disrupts markets.

However, fastener habits will continue to gradually evolve and shift through changes in regulations, product norms, and mechanical properties, as well as coatings, applications, customers, new competition, emerging sectors, digitalisation, and so on. Possibly even through the impact of Artificial Intelligence.

At ADEFI we will continue to support our members by structuring and coordinating all the issues we advance from EFDA – guaranteeing a good channel of communication. We will also keep aiming to expand our membership net and voice.”

40.000 REFERENCES

FASTENING TECHNOLOGY

IS OUR PASSION

TIMBER DECK AND GARDEN ROOF FAÇADE CONCRETE SOLAR

Whatever your requirements are, we provide you with everything from a single source. We manufacture with various processes such as stamping and stamping-bending technology, cold forming, injection moulding and extrusion technology.

PRODUCTION POSSIBILITIES

• Screws with 40 mm to 3000 mm, with a diameter of 3 – 16 mm are produced on fully automated machines

• Single thread

• Double thread

• Reduced thread

SURFACE PROCESS

• Drill point tip

• Different materials

• Different coating

• Different tip geometries

• Customer specific requirements

From blue galvanized zinc to special coatings for long-term resistance in weathered areas (C4 – C5).

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

Achill –

a global partner for distributors

Working together with both suppliers and customers, Achilles Seibert GmbH has completed a heavy period of investment to ensure a consistent and steady flow of goods, with the opening of two new warehouses in Vietnam and India, as well as the increase of capacity at its German warehouse by 50%.

Timo Scholle, managing director at Achilles Seibert, explains: “The business in the last two years has been a bit of a rollercoaster, but in general it’s more stable now. With numerous external challenges – such as the energy and Suez crises, the ongoing war in Ukraine, as well as the political ambition in the EU to regulate businesses further – we needed to focus on investments to open up new markets for us, especially overseas.”

Achilles Seibert, known as Achill, therefore set-up a new warehouse in Vietnam and India to add further capacity, but predominately to serve customers outside the EU. Although the new warehouses do have their benefits for EU customers as they help to close the delivery gap between traditional EU distributors, who deliver within days from stock, and producers who need up to six months to deliver items. Achill is able to provide an additional service to customers who want to avoid the risk of a defect delivery, or for those who need to source from new purchase markets but have a lack of experience or staff. Achill is able to ship inspected items from these warehouses within a week, so under normal transport situations, the customer is able to receive goods in around six weeks.

“Our goal is to enable smaller companies to import alongside us. That way we can support them with our experience and know-how and even take care of their CBAM reporting – something that is obviously a big challenge for distributors at the moment,” comments Timo.

He continues: “The import of goods will continue to get more expensive and it will take a lot of time to meet all the requirements. The beginning of the CBAM quarterly reports in January this year was very hard, but until July we can use standard values published from the EU, which makes it a bit easier. After this date we need the correct values

from all our suppliers so we are in constant contact with suppliers to support them and ensure we receive the correct data, promptly. Because of the CBAM situation, it makes sense for us to increase our stock level, which is why we are lucky to have additional warehouse space in Vietnam and India, as well as our German extension – which became fully operational in December 2023.”

With the complicated challenges we face on a day-to-day basis, it has never been more important to get the right items, at the right time.”

The new international warehouses also enable additional added services with staff in both Vietnam and India now serving as sourcing and quality control consultants to customers, underlining Achill’s ongoing commitment to quality. “Quality is paramount to our products –Achill is known for being a reliable partner to the fastener industry for over 65 years. It’s also important for us to only receive the goods we need in Germany. With the complicated challenges we face on a day-to-day basis, such as lack of containers and longer shipping times, it has never been more important to get the right items, at the right time,” highlights Timo.

Achill strives to serve its customers 24/7, which is why it has also invested in its IT systems and webshop to ensure there is always somebody available, making it easy for customers and suppliers to do business with Achill no matter the time, or wherever in the world they are located. This investment has also enabled Achill to work in a 95% paperless environment, helping to further its commitment to being more environmentally friendly.

With environmental factors becoming a daily challenge, in 2022 Achill also installed a solar panel park on the roof of its German headquarters. Timo explains: “Every day we try to reach more sustainability goals. With constant new government regulations or customer demands, sustainability is something that we must focus a lot of effort on to introduce new measures into the business.”

As well as the roof solar park, these new measures include recycling its packing material to use again for deliveries, as well as combining shipments to customers where possible, to try and reduce the CO 2 footprint in transportation. Achill is also in cooperation with local farmers for its wood waste, which can be used to heat animal stables in the winter with a pellet heating system.

Timo concludes: “After two years of big investments and changes, we are happy that we are now in a comfortable situation to work on a steady level and develop new projects. The uncertain outlook for the economy, the political situation, and the worldwide crises and wars, make it more difficult, however our plan is to look to the future and continue to find additional ways to add more value to our customers. Service and time saving business processes are now more important to our customers than ever and at Achill we are committed to a professional, efficient service with the personal touch.”

www.achill-fasteners.com

The three faces of the French market

Here PRISMEFIX – Association des Distributeurs Français Spécialistes en Éléments D’Assemblage – gives a brief summary on the latest developments within the French market, as well as how it ensures its members are kept up to date with the latest developments both from a domestic and international perspective.

The French market has experienced a ‘triple-face’ aspect for the last two years. For industry, the market is quite dynamic with good perspectives. For the residential building market, contrary to the industrial building market, which is following the industry market, there is a real important slowdown –due particularly to interest rates impacting the start of new construction at around 30% in the last two years. For the DIY market, after two very good years during the Covid-19 period, things have gone back to a similar point as before the pandemic, if not a little lower, due to rising cost of living for families.

These factors have meant that our members have reported a satisfactory last two years, depending on the markets they are focused on. Of course, during this period there have also been some big issues impacting the fastener sector itself. Firstly, there is the influence of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation, which is creating huge levels of administrative jobs and costs for all companies. This is having an even bigger impact on SME businesses who have less people to take on this type of administrative responsibility. There are also uncertainties regarding the data coming from overseas manufacturers, as well as what the future cost of CBAM duties will be. This could have a major impact on where a lot of sourcing of products will be in the future.

Another topic that has slightly gone into the background, but is still having a big impact on the European market, is the anti-dumping duties on certain products from China. Similar to when the previous anti-dumping regulation was introduced, sources of product have moved from China to other countries, especially to Taiwan, which again has an impact on costs. As an association we are also very aware and vigilant about the risk of circumvention and give alerts for our members.

These types of topics do create costs for distributors, but they also create opportunities, as they will favour distribution rather than direct manufacturers. However, the question is the capability and capacity of SME companies to handle all these challenges.

These factors have meant that our members have reported a satisfactory last two years, depending on the markets they are focused on.”

This could lead to the concentration of businesses; more specialisation within companies; as well as manufacturers adding distribution arms or distributors even adding manufacturing capabilities.

To help our members with all these types of events and challenges we look to provide as much data and information as possible. Firstly, we have two meetings a year in which we meet for a full day to discuss what is happening within the fastener and fixing sector. To add

to this, we have a newsletter that is published every two months that includes PRISMEFIX news, EFDA news, European community news, a worldwide selection of news, as well as technical issues, normative news, currency evolution, plus raw material and international freight index graphs. The purpose is to give our members up to date news regarding their business and share experiences on non-sensitive subjects. In case of urgent events, or important information, we can immediately inform members via email and then arrange video meetings to discuss if required.

Going forward, as an association our main target is to expand our number of members. This should enable us to increase our representativity and thus our ability to weigh in on state or industry decision making. Of course, this will also enlarge and improve the quality of our exchanges.

As for the French market, the current political situation in France – with the results of the European elections – has the potential to become uncertain, especially for investments, which could impact the market.

www.prismefix.com

FDS annual conference in September

The annual conference of the FDS (Fachverband des Schrauben-Großhandels e.V.) will take place this year from 19 th - 21 st September 2024 in Stuttgart, Germany, where members will be discussing key topics, as well as taking the opportunity to network.

With a membership currently standing at 47 wholesale companies, FDS continues to focus on informing members about important industry topics, especially legal measures that affect international trade, such as anti-dumping duties, sanctions against Russia or the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation. In fact, since the Covid-19 pandemic, FDS has been offering webinars on individual specialist topics – making it much easier to transfer and exchange expertise than in face-to-face webinars.

For instance, FDS members were able to participate in CBAM webinars organised by the FDS and EFDA. This helped them to better master the challenges of CBAM, with the experts from some FDS member companies also active in EFDA’s CBAM Working Group – helping to ensure that the industry is as well positioned as possible in terms of CBAM throughout Europe.

This has enabled EFDA to create templates and guidelines regarding CBAM that benefit all members, as the information is from the industry for the industry, naturally also with the input of external specialists, which is why members place a great deal of trust in these services.

“Regulation of the supply chain has increased dramatically. Informing our members at an early stage, like a radar, about upcoming

changes to the legal framework, and offering them implementation support, will be part of our core business in the coming years,” explains Volker Lederer, FDS president. “This will enable companies to prepare and position themselves on the market at an early stage. Membership of the FDS pays off for companies in the truest sense of the word.”

Volker continues: “We are excited for our conference in September, as the need to meet in person remains strong, even in times of online formats. That is why we have created a good networking event for the younger generation, with the newly organised FDS junior group, which is now called YOUNG FDS. Here, the next generation of owner families of member companies can exchange ideas and be supported in getting to know the industry and the market better. The group will meet for the first time in September.”

www.fds-online.de

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

25 years of C-parts without limits

As a comprehensive C-parts provider, Würth Industrie Service has been offering a product range of over 1,400,000 items to its manufacturing industry customers for more than 25 years – with the range extending far beyond just a catalogue.

Würth Industrie Service is primarily known for its core competencies in the field of connection and fastening technology, e.g screws, washers, and nuts, which were the origin of the company’s passion. However, the product spectrum now covers so much more. With a wide range of tools, technical chemicals and personal protective equipment (PPE), Würth Industrie Service is well established in the field of production related materials as well. With its specials and drawing parts, as well as services in the field of additive manufacturing, the company stands out when it comes to fulfilling individual customer requirements.

“In order to find the best solution for every customer, sustainable C-parts management requires much more than just supplying the required items,” underlines Würth Industrie Service. “That is why we are now developing into a comprehensive partner who is integrated

into the system-based process landscape, and also why we use holistic, automated systems and services that reduce process costs while increasing productivity, quality and flexibility.”

Even though C-parts represent a relatively small proportion of the purchase volume of companies, the procurement efforts are high, which proves to be time-consuming, error-prone and inefficient. This is exactly where the intelligent supply solutions for automated production supply of Würth Industrie Service come into the picture.

Product and system combined in an intelligent way

Würth Industrie Service has been offering tailor-made procurement and logistics concepts to its customers for 25 years. Through shelving systems with scanners, electronic solutions, modular vending machines, smart workplaces or ‘Just in Time’ supply with the help of RFID Kanban, the required parts are delivered directly to the place of use. This way, manual orders, coordination of countless suppliers and deliveries of goods, unmanageable invoice verifications, as well as walking routes of the employees in production are now things of the past. Instead, inventories are managed in a lean manner; unexpected increases and decreases in requirements are recognised early on; costs and procurement efforts are reduced; and at the same time, efficiency and productivity is achieved with maximum process and supply security.

“Thanks to the bundling of product and system competence, we have our sights set on not only the specialised segments, but rather on comprehensive factory and assembly demands of customers, which is why we offer everything from one single source. All of this is not just local, but rather global on a uniform quality level,” states Würth Industrie Service.

The company can also offer a wide range of services to assist more than 20,000 customers with their diverse demands and requirements in a comprehensive way. “Support from the very beginning at every step of the process, including design and development, that is our understanding of a holistic partnership,” explains Würth Industrie Service. “Whether it is about the individual components, an entire structural component of A, B or C-parts or even individual specials and drawing parts. As per requirement, we guide our customers from development, design and selection of the manufacturing process to production and quality assurance of all parts.”

Kobout is there for you

As a specialist in fasteners, Dutch distributor Kobout is continuously working on increasing its logistics capacity, as well as expanding its range even further, in order to go on providing a high-level of service to its customers.

Kobout has been a supplier of fastening materials since 1979, with the company now one of the largest players in the Dutch market – providing customers with a first-class service and excellent quality, supported by qualified staff and competitive prices.

“As a family business, Kobout always works on the relationship with its customers and suppliers. By staying close to the family values, and working with passion for the customer and the business, we are able to achieve close cooperation,” points out Cees Bijkerk, head of sales team trade at Kobout B.V. “We are also proud of our long employment relationships, with more than 20 colleagues being employed for more than 25 years.”

Kobout supplies both the trade and industry sectors and has seen differing demands from customers over recent years. “Due to high stock at customers’ warehouses, the demand from our trade customers recently has been temporarily less, but this is now picking up nicely again,” reports Cees. “We see big differences in the industry market, for instance companies involved in the energy transition are doing well, but there are also sectors that are having a hard time.”

In order to continue to meet the needs of both sectors, Kobout has made great strides in its internal logistics. “In our 13,300m² logistics centre, traditional racking and Hänel freight elevators offer more than

60,000 warehouse locations,” states Cees. “This means more than 50% of incoming and outgoing shipments are handled automatically.”

An increasing number of Kobout’s shipments also go through the Value Added Services department in order to realise additional customer wishes. “We are able to offer customers a wide variety of services to meets their specific needs, such as repackaging to private label, putting together sets or kits, assembling various parts, packaging per project or even metal processing such as sawing, drilling or tapping,” underlines Cees. “Our excellently trained employees are always ready to respond quickly and flexibly to specific customer wishes, as well as any developments within the market.”

A prime example is the work Kobout has already done when it comes to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation that is having a big impact on the market at the moment. “At this point, CBAM is just an administrative challenge for us as we are now well structured as an organisation to manage it,” says Jan-Arie de Jong, head of purchasing at Kobout B.V. “However, the challenge lies in the next phase, when actual emissions must be declared and paid for. Together with our suppliers we have investigated how they can reduce CO 2 emissions as quickly as possible in order to obtain more favourable rates.”

www.kobout.nl

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

NEVIB goes on supporting its members

NEVIB, the Dutch fastener distributors association, recently appointed a new board of directors with the aim of continuing to service its members on all issues relevant to the daily business of a fastener distributor.

In 2023 NEVIB said goodbye to its first chairman, Robert Klaassen, who was the driving force behind the association and helped it expand to the organisation it is today – together with Johan Dewandeleer and Niek Veldhuizen. Incumbent Board Member Arnoud Booij was elected as the new chairman, with Bart Veldhuizen of Hoenderdaal Fasteners as a new member and Vincent van Dijk remaining secretary.

“NEVIB provides a wide package of services, including information and intelligence gathering, monitoring of public policy and product quality, technical issues, lobbying, PR, etc. Our members also appreciate the networking we provide,” mentions NEVIB. “We meet at least once a year, usually at the premises of a member company. We then discuss the latest market developments, the regulatory issues that affect us, as well as other topics that are relevant to our business.”

NEVIB’s rapid alert services also enables it to quickly inform members about topics such as the anti-dumping duty procedures, the Russian steel import ban, the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation, as well as a variety of other topics. “We address these issues as NEVIB, but also through the overall EU level association EFDA, which has been instrumental in mitigating the negative impact of these measures.”

The main topic for NEVIB and its members over the last six months has been CBAM. “It is really bad that due to vague last minute lobbying by 3rd parties, the CBAM obligation, which is designed for raw materials, was ruled also applicable to processed products like fasteners,” states NEVIB. “We continue to lobby for fasteners to be exempt, and in the meantime EFDA has worked hard to explain this very complex and technical regulation to SMEs like our members. EFDA has also introduced a model tool that will hopefully help exporters to properly calculate their CO 2 emissions. This is crucial, as in a few years importers will have to pay for the emissions that are created. As the fees will be a substantial part of the total product cost, firms that can evidence low CO 2 emissions will have a competitive advantage over their peers.”

In the Netherlands, the new build construction sector is struggling somewhat, but the renovation construction market is buying fasteners as usual.”

A major challenge for NEVIB’s members currently, as well as the wide Dutch market across all industries, is the lack of labour. “Our society is aging fast and fewer people have to work for more non-active people,” explains NEVIB. “This means vacancies in logistics are hard to fill, especially as working in the fastener sector is less popular than working in other sectors or doing remote ‘influencing’ from the beach on a tropical island. Our members have looked to invest heavily in automation to try and counteract the lack of labour, but even so these systems still need supervising, back-up, etc, so there will always be a requirement for new employees.”

Looking at the current Dutch fastener market, NEVIB explains that so far this year its members have seen stable sales in terms of units, but that in general turnover is lower due to the lower price per product.

“Product stocks were high in 2022, but now they have come down. Still, demand continues to be good,” reports NEVIB. “In the Netherlands, the new build construction sector is struggling somewhat, but the renovation construction market is buying fasteners as usual. There is also the higher costs of container freight, which is still a challenge – although not as high as during Covid-19, when the price increases were hefty. Luckily, steel prices so far seem to be holding steady, so that is one less factor.”

www.nevib.nl

A.S.F Fischer enters sustainable chapter

Netherlands-based A.S.F Fischer B.V is celebrating a new chapter and era of possibilities with the completion of its new sustainable warehouse extension, which will soon be fully operational.

Working towards a sustainable future, the new 2,500m 2 extension is more environmentally friendly and includes underfloor heating and over 675 solar panels on the roof, providing the company with more than 275,000kWh of clean energy annually. This solar park will not only reduce A.S.F’s CO 2 emissions by approximately 130,000kg per year, it will also help the company become more self-sufficient.

“It all started on Friday 31 st March 2024 when we drove the first pile for the foundation of the expansion of our logistics centre,” proudly states the company.

“Casper Booij, the son of our current director Arnoud Booij, had the honour of driving the symbolic first pile at the age of 11, a tradition that is cherished within our family.

After months of dedication and hard work, we can now finally admire our completed warehouse, enriched with an impressive solar park.”

The new extension also features an advanced order picking and shipping system to help the company work more efficiently and process customer orders even faster.

“At A.S.F Fischer we believe that sustainability is an ongoing effort and our new solar park is palpable evidence of our continued commitment to environmentally responsible business practices.”

www.asf-fischer.com

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

GO EASY! with Ambrovit

By anticipating market trends and through constant innovation, Ambrovit SpA is introducing GO EASY! – a new brand aimed specifically at the hardware market, with a new image and affordable price range.

GO EASY! aims to simplify the choice of fasteners for the end user in the DIY sector, who can comfortably choose the products and independently purchase blister packs in hardware stores –a sector that until recently was still unexplored for Ambrovit.

To make the choice of products quick and easy, three different sizes of blister packs are available, containing different types of screws. To date, more than thirty products are available, including screws, hex lag screws, washers, nuts and rivets. Among these there are machine screws, self-drilling, and self-tapping screws, that can be used on different surfaces such as wood, drywall and chipboard.

The packaging has a modern and essential design, with a technical drawing of the screws on the front, along with descriptions, sizes and areas of use in both Italian and English. On the back, there are detailed descriptions in nine languages to facilitate the choice of the product. In addition, the certifications are also listed: ISO 9001, which demonstrates the strict quality standards observed; CE EN 14592 and CE EN 14566, for compliance with European standards on products; ETA, which guarantees compliance with

European technical standards; as well as CE ETA 16/0381 and CE ETA 18/1065, to guarantee a safe and high-quality product according to European standards.

Modular displays – aesthetically pleasing and functional

Appearance is important, which is why GO EASY! modular displays have a modern and eye-catching design to draw the attention and simplify the choice. They are specifically designed to stand out in any type of exhibition space, thanks to a two colour palette and a minimal design that demonstrates the attention to detail and functionality. The versatility of the structures, which adapt to all kinds of displays

and different spaces, demonstrates the attention to detail and functionality.

With the launch of GO EASY!, Ambrovit confirms its vocation for innovation and continuous development. By entering a new market of DIY, with a high-quality product with an attractive design, the company is able to reach a wider range of customers.

“GO EASY! is the ideal solution for those who are looking for a reliable, safe and user-friendly product. The variety of screws available, the clarity of packaging information, as well as the convenience of the displays, make GO EASY! the easiest choice for DIY,” comments the company. “Once again, with our many years of experience in the industry, Ambrovit proves to be a safe and solid partner that is also forward-looking and focused on the future.”

www.ambrovit.it

A trusted partner in fastening materials

With 30 years of experience, MEKR’S s.r.o specialises in the distribution and export of fastening materials and has built a reputation for reliability, innovation, as well as excellent customer service.

MEKR’S exports its products to over 20 countries worldwide, supported by a robust global distribution network – partnering with reliable logistics providers to ensure fast and secure delivery of products across Europe.

“Our strategic partnerships and improved logistics capabilities aim to provide faster and more reliable deliveries to our global customers. We have a commitment to quality and innovation, in order to enhance our offering to customers,” comments MEKR’S.

With ongoing investments including expanding warehouse capacity; incorporating advanced warehousing technologies, such as automation and smart factory solutions; ensuring higher quality standards; as well as reducing costs; MEKR’S is focused on expanding its distribution network and entering new markets, but at the same time establishing strategic partnerships and continuously enhancing logistics capabilities to meet the evolving needs of customers.

“MEKR’S has made significant progress in recent years, marked by technological advancements and market expansion. By staying attuned to market trends and customer needs, we have solidified our position as a leading provider of fastening materials,” explains the company.

To mitigate the challenges of the global supply chain, such as severe disruptions due to geopolitical tensions and natural disasters – impacting raw material availability and increasing lead times, MEKR’ S has

diversified its supplier base, increased inventory levels and strengthened relationships with key suppliers to ensure a more resilient supply chain.

MEKR’S concludes: “We remain committed to delivering highquality fastening solutions, backed by decades of experience and a relentless pursuit of innovation. Our strategic initiatives and customer focused approach will continue to drive our success and growth in the global market.”

www.mekrs.cz

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

Lancaster Fastener moves customer service forward

With a new ERP system, new product ranges and ongoing developments into launching an online portal, UK-based Lancaster Fastener is looking forward to enhancing customer satisfaction throughout 2024 and beyond.

Trading within the fastener industry for over 40 years, Lancaster Fastener has become established as a specialist importer and stockist of small diameter industrial threaded fasteners, supplying fastener distributors in over 50 countries worldwide. Operating from 3,150m 2 premises in the north-west of England, the company supplies many of the leading multinational fastener distribution groups, whilst also offering support to smaller distribution companies throughout the world.

Elaine Hollier, former sales director, now managing director since March 2023 at Lancaster Fastener Co Ltd, explains: “To say that the last few years in our industry have been tumultuous and challenging is an understatement to say the least. As a stockist with an average stock inventory level of at least 95%, we were well placed to service an increase in customer demand as we started to emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic, which culminated in a record sales year for 2021/22. Despite macroeconomic factors throughout 2022 – including container shortages, labour shortages, inflation and an increase in raw material and operating costs – we continued to operate above pre pandemic levels. With it, 2023 brought its own challenges: The introduction of new directives, such as Russian Sanctions and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation, compounded with overstock in Europe, has slowed down demand for some of our product ranges.”

However, now that supply chains are starting to stabilise, and with normality returning to stock levels, Elaine is confident that Lancaster Fastener is in a strong position to service its extensive customer base as demand returns.

Launch of a new ERP system

In February this year Lancaster Fastener implemented a new ERP system to improve efficiency, adaptability and productivity. “The

transition to a new system was a huge undertaking. We have never relied on ‘out of the box’ sales order processing, purchase order processing or warehouse management systems to operate our processes. We have been continuously developing software for over 30 years that has been specifically tailored to meet the needs of our business and to satisfy the requirements of our customers,” says Elaine.

She continues: “That said, thanks to a concerted effort across all areas of the business, the transition proved to be seamless. From day one, we were able to quote, process sales orders, allocate, despatch and invoice. The only change from a customer’s point of view was at the front end, with the improved design and presentation of our documentation. Our new, state of the art ERP system will provide us with improved integration capabilities and automation that will allow us to offer customers ‘real time’ access to our stock levels and eCommerce platform.”

Upgrading to a new ERP system has also enabled Lancaster Fastener to commence the development of an online portal for the benefit and convenience of its customers. “It is our intention to offer 24/7 access to our stock levels. In addition to placing orders through the portal, customers will be able to access stock availability and pricing,” continues Elaine.

Currently in the development phase, Lancaster Fastener plans to launch the online portal later in the year with the intention of enhancing customer satisfaction and engagement.

Investment in new product ranges

From over 3,000 tonnes of stock, comprising over 10,500 product lines, Lancaster Fastener offers a fast and efficient delivery service supported by an excellence in worldwide logistics. Lancaster Fastener’s stock profile is geared to meet the demand for ‘fast moving’ products and to offer peripheral sizes that are outside other ranges available within the industry.

Lancaster Fastener is also continuously listening to the industry and developing its product range to meet the requirements of its customers. “Our existing stock ranges are reviewed regularly to identify gaps within each product group from which to formulate future stock investment. As well as adding hundreds of new sizes to our range over the last 12 months, our enquiry tracking software has identified an increase in demand for our now established range of ISO Tap-Fix® threadforming screws for metal applications,” explains Elaine.

Navigating CBAM

As a distributor supplying both UK and EU markets, CBAM presents Lancaster Fastener with a challenge not least due to the complexity of the manufacturing supply chain within the industry but also with Lancaster’s status as a 3 rd country intermediary supplier into the EU.

“We are already reporting default values to our European customers, and we are working with our suppliers in Asia to establish their individual CO 2 emission values,” explains Bill Jambor, commercial director at Lancaster Fastener. “Obtaining accurate data from our suppliers is only one part of the challenge we face. Our IT system has therefore been upgraded so that we can generate CO 2 reports that provide a summary for multi-line customer stock orders. The issue here is that such orders are typically made up of items that have been sourced from different suppliers at widely differing times. We are however confident that the work we are doing now with EU CBAM will ensure that we are well positioned to meet the requirements of UK CBAM when it comes into effect in 2027.”

Sustainability and the years ahead

Lancaster Fastener is committed to operating in an environmentally, socially and economically sustainable manner. In response to

Lancaster Fastener is committed to operating in an environmentally, socially and economically sustainable manner.”

the ongoing energy crisis, the company has been successful in implementing strategies to mitigate its impacts and ensure sustainable energy management. “We are always looking to save energy and, as a result, lower operating costs,” explains Elaine. “We have recently decommissioned oil burning heaters throughout our warehouse facilities and replaced them with infrared heaters. Motion activated lighting has also been installed throughout our warehouses, so energy is only used when it’s needed.”

Elaine concludes: “While there are undoubtedly challenges ahead, such as overstock, subdued demand, CBAM, to name but a few, we are committed to navigating these with resilience and strategic planning. By focusing on product development, quality, innovation and a customer centric approach, we will continue to meet the needs of our customers throughout 2024 and beyond.”

www.lancasterfastener.com

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

BIAFD proposes exclusion of fasteners from UK CBAM

The British and Irish Association of Fastener Distributors (BIAFD) has submitted a comprehensive response to the UK government’s consultation on the UK CBAM regulation, proposing the exclusion of fasteners from the scope of the scheme. The association also prepared a suggested response to help members with their own submissions.

BIAFD is renowned for offering practical guidance and fundamental support to its members, with the association leading advice on critical issues, such as Russian sanctions and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation, alongside other industry specific challenges.

The association’s efforts have been particularly crucial in helping members understand the impact a UK CBAM will have if fasteners (CN Code 7318) are included. BIAFD has also submitted a comprehensive response to the UK government’s consultation on UK CBAM and

prepared a suggested response for members to use when sending their own submissions.

BIAFD Chair Ian Doherty explains: “Having an aligned position is vitally important so I would like to thank members for their unwavering support on such an important subject.”

This type of support has not only enabled BIAFD to retain existing members but also attract new ones, resulting in a notable increase in BIAFD’s membership numbers with Anixter Ltd, Earnest Machine Products Ltd, SPECTRUM

Fasteners Limited and Masons Fasteners Ltd all joining in the last few months – with members actively participating in discussions, seeking advice and sharing their experiences.

Highlighting this trend of heightened engagement was the record attendance at BIAFD’s recent Spring meeting. “The high attendance is a testament to the value that members place on being better informed, better protected and better supported,” emphasises Ian.

www.biafd.org

UDIB works for its members

Unione Distributori Italiani Bulloneria (UDIB) has been involved with several projects and activities in order to support its members with various services to meet the legal requirements for the fastener trade, whilst remaining a network for Italian distributors who can meet and exchange ideas.

Over the last 18 months UDIB has been involved in a number of projects in order to better serve its members. Firstly, in September 2023, Alexander Kolodzik took over the role of secretary of the association, with his work for EFDA resulting in great synergies that UDIB can utilise. At the beginning of 2023, UDIB also introduced a quarterly survey on the screw market in which its members can participate and orientate themselves. Plus, with UDIB YOUNG it is offering the younger generation of owner families a network to get to know the industry better and learn from each other.

“We are always working on how we can provide more information and assistance to our members in order to tackle the challenges of the modern market,” underlines UDIB President Riccardo Bonalumi. “Whilst the Italian market proved unexpectedly resilient in 2023, with a gradual slowdown rather than a collapse despite initial concerns – thanks to continued public infrastructure investment and a booming construction sector –

it also saw significant mergers and acquisitions, driven by investment funds, which could reshape the fragmented fastener distribution market and force smaller companies to adapt to new strategies in the face of increasing market uncertainties and protectionist measures. 2024 also opened with a slowdown and a strong bearish push on prices that led to a major contraction in turnover but especially in margins. At UDIB we look to update members about important topics, such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation, anti-dumping or even the EU Construction Products Regulation, to make sure they are better informed and are prepared for these market changing topics.”

To do this UDIB holds seminars, webinars and three general meetings a year, with the next big meeting in Bologna, Italy, at the end of November. UDIB will also have its own stand at Fastener Fair Italy, which takes place from 29th – 30th October in Milan.

www.udib.it

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

High-quality fasteners for industry, retail and trade

Having quadrupled its sales turnover since 2017, the most recent challenge for Halfmann Schrauben GmbH has been to continue to build on this strong growth. Despite the resistance of recent months, Edis Civic, managing director at Halfmann Schrauben, outlines how the company’s recent investments in storage capacity, as well as a new building, will enable it to achieve this growth.

We look back at the last two years fondly, with 2022 a very successful year for many fastener companies. For many, it was even the best year in history. Halfmann Schrauben managed to increase our sales and tonnage figures and supply our customers with a very large product portfolio. In addition to our numerous imports, we also supply both industry and trade with many special and drawing parts. Our product range also consists of over 70,000 DIN parts and 30,000 customer related connective elements.

In order for us to build on the strong growth of recent years, we decided to expand our warehouse in Essen, Germany to increase our existing storage capacity by 30%. We started the expansion back in 2022 and the finished building now covers 800m 2 and provides an extra 2,000 pallet spaces. The expansion has enabled us to continue to grow our capacity and capabilities, as well as ensuring a better availability of our products for customers. In addition, with the additional space gained, and the additional loading options, we are able to significantly increase the efficiency of the warehouse organisation, including storage and retrieval.

Automation is the key to our success. The days of having an above-average number of employees are over and we will no longer be competitive if we only rely on manpower. Turnover per head is very important to me and our figures – a €20 million turnover with an average of 28 employees is something we are very proud of.

Today’s customers are in a hurry, which is why we are also looking at ways in which we can make steps to be more efficient and improve as a business. For instance, the Halfmann webshop provides all 70,000 available items – with ‘real time’ stock levels and customer specific prices –immediately as a source of information without having to make any further clicks.

At the same time as these investments, we have also built a completely new warehouse in Remscheid, Germany, near the headquarters of our group of companies. This warehouse is designed only for complete pallets, and enables us to utilise our capacities in the best possible way. Halfmann tries to be competitive in several product groups and our purchasing strategy must reflect this. For example, the new Remscheid warehouse enables us to import two pallets of M8 x 20 hexagon head screw in different grades, instead of ten pallets of a normal 8.8, which almost every other dealer imports and stocks themselves. This makes Halfmann a reliable partner for many article groups and we plan to focus on new markets in the future.

A current trend in joining technology is the focus on energy and resource efficient processes. Increasingly strict environmental regulations and growing awareness of environmental protection are driving developments towards more sustainable joining methods. We have benefited greatly from this so far and have gained numerous new customers in the solar sector over the last 12 months.

...we are always looking at ways in which we can make steps to be more efficient and improve as a business.”

We want to continue to grow and gain even more market share, especially in the retail sector. We now supply over 50 different countries worldwide and want to further increase our export targets. A vital part of our success is also our ability to partner with customers – both trade and industry. It is the flexibility, service and reliability that characterises us. We specialise in procuring everything for our customers, and thanks to our large global supplier network we are a real specialist and the perfect partner.

www.halfmann-schrauben.de

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

CHAVESBAO continues to evolve

Here we speak to Jorge Cámara, export manager at CHAVESBAO, part of the Lontana Group, who outlines how CHAVESBAO is ‘directing the bow of the ship’ towards a more reasonable course of stability, by focusing on the performance and operative side of a new automated warehouse.

What are the benefits for CHAVESBAO’s customers of the new automatic warehouse and what other recent investments have been made?

“The facility transfer to a new automatic warehouse has increased our capacity to more than 25,000 euro pallets. We’ve also been able to apply new technologies within that environment with six robots for euro pallets, as well as robots for miniloading. It has taken time for us to understand the performance and operative side of things, however the huge investment has been necessary to greater our efficiency throughout the whole distribution process.

The investment has also put us in a better position for the future by helping us be more adaptable as the industry evolves. We are currently living in a tough era to find or retain skilled, talented people across our industry so we need to adapt and customise our service accordingly. We can do this through training our teams, but digitisation is key. Automation is improving processes, as well as Artificial Intelligence, which is already disrupting data management in our sector. Robots are slowly becoming our companions; it’s better to get used to them and be friendly.

Competition has never been higher. Standards are also getting higher and higher and with that, expectations are constantly rising. Whether that’s in added services or product quality, those companies that do not align their strategies to match and exceed the trend will sooner or later lose business. That’s why we recently improved our quality laboratory by renewing the load, tensile, hardness and X-ray testing devices – to provide consistent high-quality products.

We all must grow up and diversify our strategies, our products, our business. It’s just a matter of time – we must evolve.

We therefore have integrated a welding consumables range into our company to offer a different perspective. Welding with other technical nuances, although easily synergistic with fasteners, support each other and enhance the strength of our brand. The welding range was already an existing division within Lontana Group and now means we at CHAVESBAO have a bigger product offering.”

As a fastener distributor, what have been the biggest challenges over the past twelve months impacting the markets you operate in?

“Every market we cooperate with has its own idiosyncrasy, where a diversity of countries and realities coexist within each country. Common factors such as facing phases of a historic pandemic with worldwide consequences, as well as new European anti-dumping in carbon bolts and washers from China’s origin, have disrupted the supply chain – impacting markets and their consumption demands.

We have all been sailing through unbalanced stocks and inflation in product price terms waters, from crazy volumes to weaker demand currents. Huge purchases to feed the supply chain trend led

We all must grow up and diversify our strategies, our products, our business. It’s just a matter of time – we must evolve.”

to heavy extra logistics and costs, colliding last year with a cooling in the demand.

We have been managing high-levels of everything – inflation, prices, margins and now a reduction of margins in order to stay alive in the market. Unfortunately, I would say we are back to harmful habits of the past. How do we deal with that as a business? Through stock capacity, reliable processes, reliable delivery times, quality products, quality packaging, and most importantly, communication. Good communication with your suppliers, as well as your customers, is paramount to business. Just like in a marriage or friendship, businesses need to know their strengths – and must know their weaknesses too. What I mean by this is – be transparent and share everything. If an issue is identified by a customer, have a contact for them to call directly. Overall reliability and willingness to reach agreements is crucial.

This is the focus of CHAVESBAO, we are not perfect and have to keep on respecting and learning from the thousands of customers who place their confidence in us. They are our boss, who deserve gratitude. People make the difference and I feel our house is recognised in this sector as a home. We want to continue to compete in the ‘Champions League of European Fasteners’ – in what league do you want to play?”

Another big topic is the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation. How will this impact you as a business and what measures are you putting into place?

“Firstly, it must be said that the objective here is positive. For businesses to improve their standard of care and commit to taking care of the world by being mindful of carbon emissions is admirable. That being said, we need time to understand and adapt to the requirements of the European Commission. It’s very difficult to get the data from suppliers in the Far East.

The regulation has had a huge impact in our purchasing departments, with the process itself needing a huge investment of time and resources from our side to follow regulation and

registration. The issue is that this time and effort cannot be recuperated in the price of the product. Customers do not seem to be aware of these costs, so they are absorbed by importers.

Whilst it’s a tough challenge for us, we must be open to change.”

Looking ahead, what do you think the future for CHAVESBAO holds?

“CHAVESBAO is a family company with a history and values that are good foundations to face present and future challenges. Our sustainable growth strategy seeks to balance economic progress with social, environmental and governance responsibility to help improve the industry and the world a little more. We are marathoners. Can we last in the future if we do not take care of our house, our garden, our partners? Which is the perfume you want to leave in the sector?

As we look to the future, we are sure unexpected events, geopolitical issues, macroeconomics, regulations,

mergers and acquisitions, as well as industry changes, will continue to frame and condition our route. As we look at tariffs and regulations, will customers and suppliers become more selective, and will the European industry have enough competitiveness on a worldwide stage?

To better adapt CHAVESBAO to whatever scenario happens, I call upon César Luis Menotti, an Argentinian football coach, who famously said: “Don’t betray the idea, play well to win. The only thing you can’t stop doing is thinking.”

www.chavesbao.com

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

The more things change, the more they remain the same

Here, Ian Doherty, chief executive at Owlett-Jaton, discusses the current market challenges faced by fastener distributors, such as shipping disruptions and tariffs, as well as outlining why it is now vital for distributors to focus on understanding the carbon footprint of its products.

The past two years seem to have passed in the blink of an eye, that might just be a symptom of getting older, but it does feel as if the fastener market is staggering from one crisis to the next. Whatever happened to boring normality?

When I last wrote for the distribution special, we had just been through a number of major challenges in the UK market, such as BREXIT, Covid-19, the shipping crisis and the introduction of an Anti-Dumping Duty (ADD) on fasteners from China. At Owlett-Jaton, we had completed our restructuring, launched our new rivet range, our new website and store had gone online, and we had increased our sales force presence. Everything seemed rosy, crises over, business in good shape, and the only cloud visible on the horizon was the war in Ukraine, which we thought might have some negative economic impact.

However, whilst it does at least seem that Covid-19 is thankfully behind us, the other challenges have not gone away. BREXIT is still negatively impacting our business; shipping is once more an issue; ADD is still creating issues; the war in Ukraine has had a major impact on the economy and led to the introduction of sanctions on Russian steel; and to top it all, we now have the challenges of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation in the EU, as well as being in consultation for the UK. It really seems like a case of ‘the more it changes, the more it’s the same thing’.

The war in Ukraine did indeed have an economic impact, with energy and food prices spiking – driving more general inflation and economic slowdown, which, in turn, depressed the market for fasteners and fixings. On top of that, sanctions on Russia were stepped up to stop Russian steel from being used in other products. The initial EU approach to these sanctions created panic in the market, as importers, ourselves included, struggled to obtain Mill Test Certificates. Fortunately, the UK government’s approach was more pragmatic, and the EU has now taken a more reasonable line, meaning there is less of an impact.

The economic slowdown triggered by the war in Ukraine led to a build-up of stocks, unsurprising given the long lead time of the Far East supply chains providing the bulk of fasteners sold in Europe. We are also now in the midst of another shipping disruption as the actions of the Houthi’s have effectively closed the Red Sea and Suez Canal for transit between the Far East and Europe.

As a consequence, ships are taking the longer Cape of Good Hope route, adding both time and cost to the transit. The initial disruption, certainly for us, was absorbed by stockholding, but now we are seeing much more marked capacity issues going forward. As a result of the longer

transit times, capacity on the route has been reduced, I understand by 20% – 30%. This has not only led to further cost increases but, more worryingly, to real difficulty in getting all the desired products shipped. It is starting to look like 2021 again, with economic growth accelerating and insufficient shipping capacity. We could be facing another period of poor availability and much higher prices. I am sure the shipping lines who made such exceptional profits in that period will be very keen to see that repeated, and I do not anticipate any moves on their part to ease the capacity constraints.

The new challenge for us all is CBAM. For the fastener industry, the inclusion of CN Code 7318 products in EU CBAM at a late stage and with little consultation was a blow, especially as these products are not part of the EU Emission Trading Scheme like the other products in scope. It is proving a complex and difficult, often impossible, task to provide all of the required data to meet what are legal requirements to report. The planned withdrawal of default values from the end of June 2024 will just make this even more difficult.

EU CBAM is not only an issue for distributors in the EU. Many businesses want to be able to move products across EU borders and are requesting CBAM data for UK importers. Data is also needed if an EU produced product is reimported into the EU, everyone gets to share the pain.

In the UK, the government has been consulting on the introduction of a UK CBAM to start in 2027. I have no doubt this will go ahead, irrespective of who is in 10 Downing Street after the July election. The challenge for the fastener industry is the potential inclusion of CN Code 7318 products, mirroring the EU position. The British and Irish Association of Fastener Distributors (BIAFD) has been arguing strongly against the inclusion of CN Code 7318 and encouraging as many UK distributors as possible to do the same.

Whether or not the UK CBAM includes CN Code 7318, it seems clear to me that sustainability issues, and in particular carbon accounting, are here to stay. Climate change is a real threat to us all, and reducing carbon emissions is vital. To quote an old adage: ‘If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it.’

Measuring and managing carbon will become vital, and our business systems will have to adapt. At Owlett-Jaton, we are working towards the implementation of a new ERP system and ensuring it can capture and manage carbon data for the future. We hold the ISO 14001:2015 accreditation and have been recognised by EcoVadis for our efforts. We will continue to improve our own environmental performance, as I see understanding the carbon in our products as the next big step.

www.owlett-jaton.com

www.bbafasteners.com/bctdb

Abbott Fasteners loves a challenge

Abbott Fasteners was formed in 1982 and thanks to its wealth of knowledge and experience has grown to be recognised as one of the largest stocked suppliers of imperial threaded products, as well as standard metric forms – supplying into rail, aerospace, military, marine and general engineering.

Dave Challis, general manager at Abbott Fasteners Ltd, explains: “Our stock includes British and American imperial in all grades and materials, such as metric, fine, extra fine, UNC, UNF, BSW, BSF, BA, BSP, as well as many other thread forms – some of which you wouldn’t believe existed. We also have access to DIN/ISO specifications, along with older type BS specifications, so whether it’s for the most up to date military requirements, or vintage cars, we can ensure you will receive the correct part.”

Fully ISO 9001:2015 certified, and with an experienced team in the office and warehouse, Abbott Fasteners also guarantees every enquiry will be dealt with professionally and honestly in a timely manner. “You will receive a full emailed quotation so you can order with confidence, which will then be dispatched directly on a fully trackable service – with timed and Saturday deliveries as an option,” points out Dave. “If a customer is looking for a fully itemised Kanban or VMI system then we also have a dedicated office that can handle this type of account. These options help customers reduce their vendor base and costs by having us look after their C-class items in a 1 or 2 bin system – ensuring customers never run out of stock again – with regular structured deliveries available to suit individual business needs.”

From the very beginning, Abbott Fasteners developed a reputation for being able to supply products that aren’t always available elsewhere. “We often get calls beginning with ‘if you haven’t got this then I know it’s not available’ or ‘this is an oddball can you help me’, which we love and is what has enabled us to be successful over the last 40 years,” proudly states Dave.

Part of the company’s ability to provide these types of products and services is the knowledge and experience within the business, although keeping this knowledge within the company is a constant challenge. “The knowledge and expertise is drifting away from the fun world of fasteners, not just at our company but across the sector. Employees who have worked in the industry for

decades are retiring and it is proving more and more difficult to attract new, young people to join,” points out Dave. “For instance, we decided to recruit last year and it proved very difficult. The fastener market is not cool and sadly it’s not seen as a career, so it’s very difficult to attract the right type of person. Fortunately, we found someone with the right attitude to learn, but it took almost six months to do so.”

Dave continues: “We are only a team of twelve people, so it is vital every member is willing to learn and develop new skills, for every part of the business. A prime example is the extra work and challenges that are created when it comes to new duties or regulations, such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation. Thankfully we are an active member of BIAFD, which has been very beneficial to us, as the association provides key support and information on what is happening within the market. For instance, BIAFD has been very active in trying to get fasteners excluded from the scope of the UK CBAM regulation, as it will cause us a lot of extra work and admin, which as a small company will mean some serious changes will need to be made. Whilst larger companies might have the resources to handle the challenges associated with sustainability, CBAM and duties, etc, these topics can prove too much for certain smaller companies, as they simply don’t have the staff required to handle it all. That is why being part of BIAFD and being made aware of these types of things is vital.”

Looking forward Abbott Fasteners is confident it will keep on meeting the needs of its customers and relishes the challenges ahead. “Abbott can supply almost every type of fastener to customers’ requirements, from standard items to specials made to order. Being totally independent, our direct access to many of the brands in the fastener industry enable us to provide customers with the items they want quickly from either stock or Ex Works,” underlines Dave. “I invite customers to give us a try for any of their requirements, big or small, standard or special, to see how we can work closely with them to provide the products they need.”

Abbott can supply almost every type of fastener to customers’ requirements, from standard items to specials made to order.”

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

Non-preferred Metrics ~ Intermediate Sizes

FASTENERS & FIXING TECHNOLOGY

With over 130 years´ of experience, REYHER is one of Europe´s leading distributors of fasteners and fixing technology supplying customers worldwide.

NEW AND UNPARALLELED

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

Online Product Guide:

Short and Long Lengths ~ Slotted Grub Screws

A4/80 Bolts & Socket Caps ~ 6 Lobe (TX) Drive Screws

All Metal Self-Locking Nuts ~ Studding Connectors

CONU the Counter Nut

Flat surface now also on the nut side

Self-locking with maximum load-bearing capacity

Customized performance and strength class REYHER screw and washer assembly

Full load-bearing capacity with combi drive (ASK/ISR)

Everything from a single source

Through strong sales, strong purchasing, structured processes and a robust focus on quality, Fuchs+Sanders is able to supply high-quality screws, fasteners and solutions that meet the requirements of customers in various industries.

With an extensive range of over 65,000 readily available products, Fuchs + Sanders Schrauben-GroßhandelsGmbH + Co KG offers DIN and standard parts, special and drawing parts, blind rivet technology, anchors and heavy-duty fasteners, wood connectors, chemical products, speciality products for bonding, sealing and protecting, as well as a wide spectrum of products from renowned brand manufacturers, such as Lindapter. A recent addition to its wide range is HV safety sleeves, after noticing a trend in the industry demanding solutions to make construction easier.

“One of the main markets we serve is the steel construction industry. As a reliable partner, it is so important to actively communicate with customers about where trends in their markets are going. It is our job as a trustworthy fastener supplier to react to these trends and stock fasteners accordingly. We have also recently grown in the automotive, wind power and other industries because of the high-quality of our product range,” comments the company.

To guarantee the highest quality, Fuchs+Sanders places great emphasis on self-monitoring and continuous improvement. Internally,

the company focuses on a consistent improvement process with training and development programmes and an in-house testing laboratory, while externally managing its suppliers and conducting audits to ensure quality standards are met.

The quality department also receives continuous investment, including new testing machines, as well as new experienced technical staff such as Valerij Schram, who joined the company at the beginning of 2024 as technical sales manager.

“At Fuchs+Sanders quality takes centre stage, along with customer satisfaction, which is why we work very closely with both our suppliers and customers. It is important to us that our customers not only get the right products but also know how to use them, so our technical team regularly conduct training courses to educate where fasteners can be used,” explains Fuchs+Sanders.

Through close cooperation with customers and suppliers, Fuchs+Sanders is also able to support the drawing of new parts and act as a system supplier for its customers. The company explains: “Every customer has their own requirements and that is why we work hard to accommodate all customer needs. This is made possible with a strong team of 100 sales staff who can respond quickly to our customers.”

Orders can be made via a webshop, FUSA-scan, EDI, Kanban, framework agreement, project-related, or by telephone or email, with same day despatch on those placed before 3pm.

Commitment to sustainability

The company’s DIN EN ISO 9001:2015 certification reaffirms its commitment to maintaining high-quality standards. “We recognise our responsibility to future generations and, as a result, systematically incorporate environmental aspects, such as sustainability, into our business decisions – including two photovoltaic systems that cover 33% of our electricity consumption,” mentions Fuchs+Sanders.

The company concludes: “Our plans for the future are very big and we want to continue to grow and win new customers and projects worldwide.”

www.fuchs-sanders.de

F+S your strong partner in the steel construction industry

About us

Since our foundation in 1932, we are proud to be one of the leading wholesalers of fastening technology. Headquartered in Lotte, Germany, with over 200 dedicated employees, we work every day to keep the world together. Our focus is on high-quality screws, fasteners and solutions that meet the requirements of our customers in various industries. Our modern logistics center in Lotte ensures efficient and on-time delivery. Our vision of „Keeping the world together“ not only expresses our expertise in fastening technology, but also reflects our efforts to make a positive contribution to society through responsible action and sustainable solutions.

Highest quality

Our HV screw sets are produced to the highest quality by leading German premium manufacturers. Close cooperation with the premium manufacturers ensures complete product traceability at all times. As a result of this close cooperation a HV reference guide was created to assist you with any initial queries you may have. For all other questions our strong technical team can be consulted at any time and will be happy to help you.

Everything from a single source

• HV bolting assemblies acc. to DIN EN 14399 up to M36 ex stock

• SB bolting assemblies acc. to DIN EN 15048

• Turnbuckles with CE marking

• Nord-Lock wedge-locking washers for steel constructions (SC)

• Lindapter steelwork clamping systems

• Wide range of anchor fastenings for light, medium and heavy-duty applications

• Threaded rods up to 3 meters

• MEA tracks up to 6 meters

• Chemical products

• Abrasives, cutting discs and drills

• and much more

Here you will find all important documents for steel construction:

Here you can find our steel construction catalog:

Throughout Germany

What the founders Fritz Fuchs and Heinrich Sanders started as a specialist wholesaler for screws and hardware in 1932 in the city center of Osnabrück is now a company with 5 locations throughout Germany.

Headquarters

49504 Lotte Im Westerfeld 1 Germany

Tel. +49 5404 9160-0 Fax +49 5404 9160-140 info@fuchssanders.de

North 22525 Hamburg

3a

Region East 39179 Barleben An der Sülze 2

Region South 70794 Filderstadt

29

Region West 41066 Mönchengladbach

42

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

UBK – quality, safety, reliability

For more than 50 years, UBK SpA has been present in the Italian and European markets providing an excellent distribution service for high-quality screws, bolts and fasteners that are ideal for industrial and automotive applications. Moreover, UBK can supply customised components using specific techniques thanks to the support and expertise of its staff and production partners.

UBK has extensive experience in the distribution of high-quality fastener products throughout Italy and other European countries –supplying a wide range of products including screws, bolts, nuts, pressure plugs, dowel pins, studs, disc springs, washers and locking solutions, in both metric and inch sizes.

UBK also supplies its vast range of products in a variety of materials and finishes. Among the items it handles are dowel pins to DIN 6325 and DIN 7979, straps, shoulder bolts to ISO 7379, as well as metric and imperial fasteners. All UBK products comply with international standards, with PPAP and IMDS certificate available upon request. To supply high-quality fasteners, UBK partners with world leading manufacturers that adhere to certified quality systems (ISO 9001, QS 9000, ISO 14000 and ISO-TS 16949 certifications).

To meet the needs of more demanding clients, UBK is also able to offer customer designed products, which are specially designed and manufactured in accordance with technical specifications. These parts can be used for special applications such as typical parts for engines – cylinder heads, con-rods, transmissions, flywheels and pulleys.

Contending with market challenges

“One of the main challenges in recent years has been to recover the turnover lost during the Covid-19 lockdown period and resume business growth,” explains UBK. “However, we have a professional, motivated and innovative team with experience and a lot of expertise. The result is better management of stock and prompt delivery of about 93%. Through product quality, technical experience, warehouse availability, and flexibility in both commercial and logistical responses, UBK offers a dynamic and efficient service.”

Furthermore, UBK has a network of exclusive partnerships with excellent technical and logistic support. These collaborations make it possible to satisfy any customer need.

“With our extensive distribution channel, we are in a position to accommodate the needs of

Thanks to its knowledgeable and experienced team, UBK is able to provide engineering support and a specialised customer service.”

HAMMER HEAD SCREW

A2-70 stainless steel - TYPE 28/15

→ New hammer head screw (Ref.: 62201)

- A2-70 stainless steel

- Slotted head

- For fixing solar panels on rails, signage panels, etc.

- For profiles with dimensions (mm): 28/12, 28/15, 28/28, 28/38, 26/26, 26/18

→ Solar product range

- Hexagon head machine screws with serrated flange (Ref.: 62107)

- Hexagon socket head cap screws (Ref.: 62201)

- Hexagon flange nuts with serration (Ref.: 62609)

Acton | 3 Bis rue du Faubourg de Couzon | 42152 L’Horme | France | 04 77 73 35 43 | export@acton.fr

FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

Seeing Japan as a window to the world

Just three years ago, Japanese fastener supplier SUNCO Industries began to focus on overseas sales. Since then, the SUNCO brand has become well-known in the fastener industry – with international customers recognising the benefits of having a wide variety of products delivered in small quantities, as well as using SUNCO as an extension of their own warehouses.

Oversea sales for SUNCO have grown by 200% – 300% per annum over the past two years, with domestic sales also increasing 10% to US$2.6 million (€2.4 million). “We are positively feeling the impact of a brand recognition project, which we believe is a major factor in our current success,” comments SUNCO. “We feel this is the result of our continuous efforts to educate potential customers on both our services and products, and customers are realising that it is convenient to do business with us. We will stock the sizes and products customers don’t want to – and then supply them quickly and efficiently.”

This includes SUNCO’s JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard) products, working with over 1,300 high-quality Japanese manufacturers to have over 300,000 high-quality product types always in stock, including small sizes and various types of stainless steel products. In order to be able to

supply these smaller quantities, SUNCO has invested heavily in unique dedicated rotary racks for shipping products in smaller cartons, as well as dedicated small box racks, which have made picking more efficient – 2.5 times faster than before. “Looking ahead, we plan to introduce one of the largest automated warehouses in the industry,” explains SUNCO.

SUNCO adds: “Our motto of ‘your special is our standard’ reflects our commitment to fulfilling our customers’ unique requirements. We are here to help you. Recently, overstock has really started to become an issue for European distributors and we believe SUNCO is the answer because simply put – overstock doesn’t need to be a problem. SUNCO will stock and deliver products in any quantity. Using our own mathematical models to manage stock based on past performance and demand forecasts, we also work with economic analysts to assess market conditions and adjust the total value of stock to reflect the situation.”

…overstock doesn’t need to be a problem. SUNCO will stock and deliver your products, in any quantity.”

This is made possible due to SUNCO’s IT system and 70 strong purchasing team. The IT system is used to place orders on a daily basis to ensure stock levels are maintained at an appropriate level. Recently the company has also made inventory levels available to its suppliers to help them manage inventory more efficiently.

Customers are also able to access and check stock levels with SUNCO’s 3Qnet web catalogue, which features prices, drawings, inventory and 360° images of products in ‘real time’ and enables orders to be placed easily. Customers can also shop in various currencies including Japanese Yen, US Dollars, Euros and British Pounds. “We made the decision for customers to be able to shop in their own currencies in order to take advantage of the current exchange rates. Production and transport costs have certainly risen but inflation in Japan is still in the 2% range, which is different from a lot of international countries where inflation is rising. This, combined with the weak Yen, has given us a price advantage which, whilst not being as cheap as other Asian countries, we hope will encourage new customers that Japan is definitely a key supplier for the fastener market,” comments the company.

As well as a key supplier, SUNCO wants to use its knowledge and expertise to support fastener companies when it comes to the

Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation. “While, like other countries, Japan faces challenges from the CBAM legislation, we want to widen the circle of support by actively hosting CBAM study sessions and providing hands-on support to key suppliers. Our commitment to the fastener industry is both local and global and, as part of that commitment, we need to provide additional value to our customers. It’s never been more important for us to work hand in hand in this industry.”

With sustainability a key topic, Japan’s materials are mostly sourced through electric furnaces, with companies already making huge progress in decarbonising their products globally. SUNCO has also expanded its range of plated products with lower environmental impact, as well as introduced company wide initiatives based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

SUNCO concludes: “As we look to the future, environmentally friendly products are going to continue to be at the forefront of the industry, but as well as that we see closer globalisation coming into play. We need to make sure that customers have the confidence to buy from us and by doing so, our products and services match up as if they were buying domestically.”

www.jisscrew.com

INSIGHT

IN-DEPTH INTERVIEWS AND REPORTS WITH FASTENER SPECIALISTS

Koelner Rawlplug resumes nut production

Thanks to new investments, driven by increased customer demand – and after a hiatus of over 30 years –Koelner Rawlplug has resumed the production of hex nuts at its factory in Łańcut, Poland.

Koelner Rawlplug’s expansion of its production capabilities was possible thanks to the acquisition of a cutting edge HOTmatic AMP 20N production line, a state of the art hot former that is designed specifically for the manufacture of small precision parts in high annual volumes.

With this new addition to its machine park, Koelner Rawlplug is able to produce its own nuts for the increasingly popular Rawlplug HV sets. The machine is also suitable for the production of various complex parts and semi-finished products in a wide range of shapes and sizes, providing Koelner Rawlplug with the flexibility to utilise the machine in a variety of applications.

The HOTmatic AMP 20N operates in a production line, equipped with an induction heating system with a heating power of 900kW. It consists of three forming stations, with a total slider press capacity of 1,500kN, and can forge parts from steel bars up to 6 metres in length. With a maximum production speed of 200 parts per minute, Koelner Rawlplug states that it is ready for efficient and cost-effective production of high-quality hot formed components.

The production process for HV nuts begins with a steel rod of the appropriate diameter. The rod is then heated and cut to the appropriate size and weight. The prepared part undergoes hot forging in three stages –firstly preliminary forming, secondly creating the shape, and then finally forming and perforation. After the shape is formed, the nut proceeds to the in-house heat treatment process at the Łańcut factory. The parts, now with the necessary mechanical properties, are then subjected to a hot dip galvanising process, with the final threading stage also conducted in the Łańcut factory.

Throughout the production process, every stage is closely monitored by the company’s quality control department to ensure that the final product released to the market meets the highest quality standard.

“Given the constantly rising demand for our construction bolts, we primarily utilise this new investment to produce nuts for the Rawlplug HV sets,” explains Koelner Rawlplug. “However, the hot forming machine is versatile and capable of manufacturing various complex parts and semi-finished products, including those intended for further machining – with a convenient solution being our well equipped machining department that operates on the same premises.”

The company adds: “The launch of nut production at the factory in Łańcut not only represents yet another addition to our production capabilities, but also enables us to meet increasing market demands with efficiency and precision. New investments continue to play a crucial role in our business and reflect our ongoing commitment to quality and innovation, solidifying our position as a leader in the production of high-quality fasteners.”

BI HEXAGONAL FLANGED SCREWS S

 Up to M30 with 240 mm L. max

 Automotive, motorsport, industrial vehicles

 Engine and body assembly

 Carbon and Stainless Steel

www.colombofasteners.com

A philosophy of sustainability

As part of its commitment to providing the highest service levels to the metal processing industry, Steel Dynamics Group believes it must also meet high corporate behaviour standard, including the requirements of sustainability – with the Group recently partnering with Positive Planet to simplify the pathway to ‘net zero’.

Since it was established in 2011, Steel Dynamics Group – consisting of Steel Dynamics UK, Bornmore Metals, Offshore Stainless Supplies and P&P Non-Ferrous Ltd – has adopted a philosophy of achieving affordable, consistent growth through its expertise in metal processing and in-depth product portfolio, coupled with continual investment in manufacturing excellence, as well as unrivalled logistics.

To add to this, Steel Dynamics Group has also looked to develop its corporate behaviour and underline the values that define the Group as a business, especially when it comes to the topic of sustainability. That is why the Group recently partnered with Positive Planet, a company that specialises in helping businesses to simplify their pathways to ‘net zero’, as well as to help gather data to establish a true carbon footprint.

“By working with Positive Planet, we are able to collate data and ensure that it is analysed and monitored regularly,” points out Simon Howorth, group marketing manager at Steel Dynamics. “This then enables us to accurately input initiatives to reduce energy consumption and run each business within the group more efficiently. This is in addition to developing a roadmap of initiatives to help offset the energy needed to run each company, with a goal to becoming a carbon ‘net zero’ business by 2050.”

Steps that Steel Dynamics Group is already taking include minimising waste generation and maximising recycling, which are central to sustainable metal processing. “Factors such as project specifications, structural requirements, and cutting constraints, are assessed to determine the most efficient use of steel bars and plates, thereby significantly reducing waste,” explains Simon. “The waste that is produced is fully recycled ensuring we play our part in a circular economy.”

Furthermore, through the Great British Nuclear initiative, which was set-up in 2023 and will see the UK embrace nuclear power as a low carbon, reliable energy source, Steel Dynamics Group is able to play a prominent role through its pioneering processes and service solutions, as well as stringent adherence to nuclear safety standards, which are a testament to the Group’s dedication to advancing the nuclear industry.

“As Great British Nuclear sets the stage for a thriving nuclear renaissance in the UK, it is evident that with leaders like the Steel Dynamics Group family of companies, the nation’s path to a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future is poised for success,” underlines Simon.

Sustainability of people

Steel Dynamics Group also recognises the importance of people as part of its

social values and corporate responsibility. That is why the companies within the group participate in community projects and support the development of young people through apprenticeship schemes and training opportunities.

“The Group is committed to promoting and encouraging apprentices across a number of business functions, offering training in the most up to date technology, supported with a hands-on mentoring approach, which encourages innovation and unlocks talent potential for the future,” reports Simon. “Each business is also committed to its local community with most employees coming from the local area. Through partnerships with local charities, and organisations, the businesses also provide essential resources and support to those in need.”

Ensuring that each business within Steel Dynamis Group is connecting with its employees, and local community, also helps manage the skills shortage that is a significant issue within the metals industry, as well as engineering as a whole. “It is vital that we invest in our employees and provide opportunities for growth and development, as well as showing they are driving a sustainable future,” states Simon. “By doing so, the group can attract and retain top talent, ensuring that it has the skilled workforce it needs to succeed.”

Steel Dynamics Group’s commitment to people can take many forms, including training and development programmes, mental health first aiders, private healthcare, cost of living benefits packages, as well as a positive work environment. “By investing in its employees, the Steel Dynamics Group can create a culture of excellence and innovation, where employees are motivated to perform at their best and contribute to the group’s success,” concludes Simon.

www.steel-dynamics.co.uk

Producing UNS 32760 Super Duplex Strain hardened bars for Fasteners to MDS D59/D59L Rev 3

The increasing prospect of India

Espace, the UKs first employee-owned freight forwarder, believes that the Indian export market will surpass any other world economy in terms of growth over the next ten years, which is why it has made India the focus of its long-term global strategy.

Geoff Yates, commercial director of Espace Global Freight, explains: “India has an incredibly exciting economy at the moment and it has been making significant strides, emerging as a key player in global trade – including the fastener and fixing sector. This has been driven by robust manufacturing capabilities, competitive pricing and a skilled workforce.”

Celebrating 24 years of international freight forwarding in May 2024, Espace started out as European and time critical specialist, with a strategic acquisition of an air and ocean forwarder in 2017 allowing it to expand beyond its European horizons.

“In the fastener and fixing industry, staying updated on the global market trends is crucial for making informed sourcing decisions and giving an all important edge over the competition,” highlights Geoff. “Over the past decade, Indian exports have demonstrated a steady upward trajectory, recovering strongly post-pandemic. The fastener and fixing sector has seen substantial growth, with Indian manufacturers meeting the increased global demand and adhering to stringent quality standards.”

Several factors make India an attractive sourcing destination. The cost-effective production capabilities are a major draw. Lower labour costs, combined with advancements in technology and infrastructure, also allow Indian manufacturers to offer competitive prices without compromising on quality.

To add to this, improving trade between India and the UK is high on the agenda on a political level. “We met with the head of strategic relationship management at the British High Commission in Mumbai,” mentions Geoff. “They are very keen to assist British businesses to source high-quality manufactured parts from India and were all too aware of the key link that freight forwarders can play in that process.”

India’s emphasis on quality assurance through certifications, such as ISO and CE, enhances confidence in their products. However, ensuring consistency in quality and lead times can also be a concern. Recently, there are also increased logistical challenges in bringing goods from India, and Asia in general, to the EU.

“Negative developments in the Red Sea have had significant implications on shipping from Asia into Europe. Cargo vessels now

navigate around the Cape of Good Hope, adding at least two weeks onto lead times, which has meant UK and EU importers either need to import more stock, order more often or look at alternative ways of bringing in goods from Asia,” reports Geoff. “Costs are also rising rapidly on the water as the displacement of vessels and a lack of boxes has affected capacity. Luckily, air freight costs are currently holding steady –providing a viable alternative.”

The Indian government has also focused on improving the ease of doing business, such as implementing the Goods and Services Tax (GST), which simplifies tax structures and compliance. Plus, the ‘Make in India’ campaign aims to transform India into a global manufacturing hub by encouraging both local and foreign investment. Incentives such as duty drawback schemes, as well as the export promotion capital goods scheme, reduce cost burdens on exporters, which directly benefit importers in the UK and EU.

“Since BREXIT our value in the supply chain has gone from being a company that just moves freight around the world to being a company that enables and assists in worldwide trade,” states Geoff. “We have a lot of connections in the freight community and in the wider trade community. We’ve been able to build on the BREXIT experience and be part of many success stories and we’re really proud of that.”

Espace offers a full array of freight solutions from around the world, including road freight, air, ocean and rail. “Working closely with the midlands automotive industry has allowed us to develop bespoke service solutions. Cost is the key driver for many consignments of course but automotive traditionally favours ‘Just in Time’ practices so there are times when express, be it a dedicated van across Europe, On Board Courier or aircraft charter are the only options. We have a fully qualified in-house customs clearance team allowing us to seamlessly integrate the customs process with the movement of goods,” concludes Geoff.

The

fastener and fixing sector has seen substantial growth, with Indian manufacturers meeting the increased global demand and adhering to stringent quality standards.”

Goebel expands global capabilities

Goebel Group has recently invested over €5 million in establishing a manufacturing facility in Germany for blind rivets, as well as merging with a supplier within the UK to create Goebel UK – further increasing its capabilities and reach as a supplier of innovative fastening solutions.

Founded in 1979, Goebel Group is an internationally operating family business that is now managed by the 2 nd generation. As a developer, manufacturer, and distributor, Goebel is one of the leading suppliers of blind fasteners, including blind rivets, structural rivets, blind rivet nuts, lockbolts, as well as the necessary setting tools – all to the highest qualities.

In order to continue to grow as a business the company decided to establish a manufacturing facility within Germany that would help guarantee the highest quality products, with a ‘Made in Germany’ guarantee. The facility would also help reduce CO2 emissions and enable full traceability of products. “Our new factory in Germany gives us the flexibility to serve the customers more strongly,” underlines Marcel Goebel, owner of Goebel Group. “The production depth includes coloured rivets made in-house, with the factory including optical sorting machines, as well as individual packing options, such as private label, etc.”

Marcel continues: “The advantages of the German factory are huge, as special rivets can be developed. We are even able to simulate everything with a simulation program, leaving nothing to chance. The second phase of our ‘Made in Germany’ project will be to also manufacture blind rivet nuts and lockbolts at the plant, which will further grow our service and capabilities.”

UK added to Goebel global reach

In order to further grow its presence within the UK market, Goebel has also merged with a well-known supplier in the UK at the beginning of 2024 – creating Goebel UK. “Our new operation within the UK provides a

new stocking and manufacturing source for the UK market,” underlines Marcel. “The UK team is highly motivated and will serve customers using the same group philosophy – the customer is the king.”

An ISO 9001:2015 certified business, Goebel Group is already represented at six locations worldwide, all with highly qualified and motivated employees, as well as a sales network of representatives and distributors that offer the highest level of service for durable and sustainable fasteners. “Thanks to our global reach we are able to offer customers an all-round good service that is highly appreciated by our customers,” explains Marcel. “To further meet the needs of the customers, we have also expanded our warehouses worldwide in recent years and can deliver Goebel products to any place in the world in the fastest possible response time.”

As part of its service, Goebel’s engineers are also able to work alongside customers from an initial idea, to a patented product or a third party approved product – making it a company that customers can rely on. “A prime example is our patented full stainless steel extended lockbolt system G-GRIP®, which brings a lot of advantages to customers. The story behind this genius revolution, and the nowadays application, shows that Goebel is capable of developing sustainable fastener solutions,” mentions Marcel. “With our own R&D department, simulation software, engineers, and sales team, we are able to stay close to customers and ensure we are meeting their often daily changing requirements.”

All these products can be tested in Goebel’s new show room – ‘Riveting World’. “With our excellently equipped laboratory, we are able to test our products for all batches and this has resulted in a claim rate of only 0.02% annually,” mentions Marcel. “We have also recently invested in a tracking system to provide our customers with the documentation/testing reports. Customers need to simply scan the QR code on the box/delivery papers.”

Marcel adds: “We have annual manufacturing capacity of over 300 million pieces, but we are still continuously investing in further machines to increase the output. Geographically we are also looking to extend our business – with the brand and label expanding daily thanks to new customers and new markets. This underlines that even in difficult times globally we are on the right track. We are also working on a lot of new developments, including what promises to be the event of the year – the World Riveting Congress, which will take place at our German facility in Erkrath in September.” www.goebel-group.com

The power of 3D fastener animation

Techsol Media is a division within Global Techsol Ltd – a fastener engineering consultancy established in 1999 in the UK – that specialises in producing photorealistic video animations tailored specifically to the fastening sector.

Techsol Media’s aim is to support clients in showcasing, marketing and explaining products to potential customers.

“Trying to convey how technical products work through text and 2D images alone can be difficult,” explains Connor Hanratty, business development engineer at Techsol Media. “However, by creating unique tailored animations, we can demonstrate how a product works, its features and benefits, as well as installation techniques, and show the potential applications in concise 1 – 2 minute videos. This enables our clients to market their products online, in sales presentations, during training sessions, as well as at trade shows.”

Using state of the art animation and editing software, combined with computers utilising cutting edge graphics hardware, Techsol Media produces animated rendered video presentations. These can be narrated or supplemented with on screen text/graphics to further explain the on screen concept. “Photorealistic animation level of production quality means the audience is essentially watching a real version of the product, whilst the fastener company avoids having to shoot real video, which in some settings is simply impossible, or very costly to do,” points out Connor. “The ‘magic’ of animation enables a product or application to be seen in ways not possible in the real world. Solid products can be seen in their entirety and then transition to be seen in cross section – revealing what is going on internally. In addition, key features of the product can be seen in ultra close up detail. The product can also be dynamic and move to show how it works in a variety of application settings. However, the ‘magic’ not only depends on the software and hardware, but also our knowledge of how to produce a meaningful video animation production. Due to our expertise within the fastener industry, we can create the video with minimal input from the customer.”

Through these animated videos Techsol Media can provide a powerful marketing tool that helps capture attention more effectively

than static images or text – making them ideal for use on websites, social media and trade show displays. “The fastener industry can leverage 3D animations and videos to enhance various aspects of operations, from product visualisation and training to marketing and customer engagement,” reports Connor. “By utilising 3D animations, companies can create detailed representations of their fasteners, highlighting complex designs and mechanisms in ways that traditional methods cannot match. This allows customers to see how fasteners work in different applications, providing a deeper understanding of their advantages. These animations are particularly useful for demonstrating the functionality of innovative or intricate fasteners, making it easier to convey their unique selling points.”

The fastener industry can leverage 3D animations and videos to enhance various aspects of operations.”

In order to produce the videos Techsol Media firstly looks to understand the product and how it works, as well as the applications in which they are used. “We need to know what features of the product are important and what benefits they provide to the user. We finally need to understand who the target audience is and if we need to be aware of a theme or style,” mentions Connor. “Armed with this information, we then set about developing an animation that communicates the key points to the target audience.”

To start the process, Techsol Media creates a simple concept animation to ensure it is in agreement with the client on what is expected, before proceeding to the next stage of development. This allows the client to have input during the process and before the final version is created – with the process typically taking about 4 weeks from start to finish.

“Videos simplify complex technical concepts, making it easier for customers to understand the functionality and applications of various fasteners. Through engaging animations, clients can demonstrate installation procedures, product benefits and potential applications in a clear and visually appealing manner,” states Connor. “This not

only helps in educating clients but also reduces the likelihood of errors during the installation process, thereby improving customer satisfaction and product reliability. Overall, animated videos are a versatile and impactful medium for communication in the fastener industry, as well as aiding in both education and marketing.”

For instance, Techsol Media’s 3D videos offer several benefits to company’s training programmes for both customers and employees. “Our videos can present installation procedures, maintenance tips, and safety guidelines in a clear and engaging manner, which improves comprehension and retention,” highlights Connor. “This is crucial for ensuring that fasteners are used correctly and safely, reducing the risk of errors. Additionally, 3D animations can simulate real world applications and potential challenges, offering practical insights without the need for physical prototypes.”

Alongside its ability to create animated videos, Techsol Media can also assist companies with visual prototyping and final product visualisations. “Our capability in creating and designing 3D worlds, without the limitations and time requirements of machining and assembly, allows us to give our customers a view of their products or assemblies without any physical limitations. We can provide images or models of concepts for fastening assemblies or installation systems; make metals transparent; show angles otherwise inaccessible; and show the installation of products that have not yet been produced – all in high-quality, photorealistic images or videos. These tools can be invaluable for companies making proposals and presentations for their products to new customers.”

Connor concludes: “Techsol Media was born out of the fastener industry and we have over 40 years of ‘design in’ application engineering in-house experience in the company. With expertise in business

By utilising 3D animations, companies can create detailed representations of their fasteners, highlighting complex designs and mechanisms.”

development engineering for BBA Srl, we started creating videos to use as sales and marketing tools for BBA’s customers. Having realised the benefit of showing unique products to customers through a visual medium, which had previously been used only by large companies with large marketing budgets, we decided to combine our knowledge of fasteners and animation to make photorealistic animated videos accessible to all companies within the industry. These videos highlight the unique features and advantages of a company’s products, creating a compelling narrative that can drive sales. Additionally, the use of animation helps in building a strong brand identity, as visually consistent and well produced videos contribute to a professional and innovative image.”

www.techsolmedia.co.uk

EXHIBITIONS

PREVIEWS AND REPORTS FROM INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIRS

Worldwide fastener experts to meet in Kraków

FASTENER POLAND®, an international trade fair for fasteners, will take place from 25 th – 26th September 2024 at EXPO Kraków and is a key forum for exchanging experiences, learning about new products, as well as building lasting business relationships.

This year’s topics will include environmental issues such as carbon duties and sustainable development, increased quality and normative requirements, shortened supply chains, technological progress, as well as rising prices of materials. The list of exhibitors is constantly growing, and at the time of this magazine being published, over a hundred exhibitors in the fastener industry have already confirmed their participation.

In addition to Polish suppliers, companies from the Czech Republic, Spain, India, Malta, Germany, Turkey, Taiwan, Italy and China will be represented. They will present the most modern industrial connectors and fasteners – from screws, through to rivets, nuts, dowels and wedges; construction connectors – anchors, concrete screws, fastening of façades and insulation; advanced assembly and installation systems – with a presentation of the latest riveting devices, screwdrivers and systems inserting screws or mounting brackets; as well as connector production technologies and devices for their storage and distribution.

End users in the spotlight

The trade fair is targeted at industry buyers who use fasteners to produce products, in a variety of markets including the machinery industry, photovoltaics, household appliances, automotive, power engineering and electronics – all sectors with the greatest demand for connectors and fasteners.

This year FASTENER POLAND® will also include a special zone of fasteners for construction, which will allow specialists in the insulation industry, installers of air conditioning, ventilation and refrigeration systems, façade installers, scaffolding manufacturers, and contractors of industrial and warehouse halls, to establish contacts with suppliers. The trade fair will also be accompanied by expert speeches, training and shows.

www.fastenerpoland.pl

CBM Mini-Expo returns

The Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM) Fastener Sector has announced the return of the Mini-Expo, inviting UK fastener and precision component manufacturers to a showcase of cutting edge manufacturing equipment, technologies and services.

Scheduled for Wednesday 4 th September 2024, this one day event will be held at the National Metalforming Centre in West Bromwich, UK, from 10:00am. The Mini-Expo will feature around twenty UK-based suppliers, providing an exclusive opportunity to explore the latest advancements in fastener manufacturing.

Confirmed companies include Brankamp, Carlo Salvi, Saspi, RLS Tooling, Regg Inspection, Condat Lubricants, TR Fastenings, Plus Automation, Heat Treatment 2000 and Vision Engineering.

The Mini-Expo offers a uniquely time efficient opportunity to catch up on the latest support available for businesses. The event is designed to provide valuable insights and practical solutions to enhance manufacturing efficiency and product quality.

Attendees can expect to see a range of equipment and technologies, including cold heading and thread rolling machinery –such as cutting edge machines for efficient and precise manufacturing; process monitoring systems – such as advanced systems to ensure optimal production processes; as well as

high-quality tools and dies for various manufacturing needs. Coating systems will also be represented with innovative solutions for durable and high performance coatings; inspection and test equipment; as well as lubricants and wire and rod materials –essential for high-quality fastener production.

Additionally, the Mini-Expo will feature providers of heat treatment, coating and threadlocking applicators, testing and inspection services, and simulation software, making it a comprehensive event for anyone involved in the fastener industry.

A key highlight of the Mini-Expo will also be the seminar programme, featuring a presentation on the latest groundbreaking technology used to manufacture ‘true’ Green Steel. This session, presented by voestalpine, will delve into the challenges and innovations in producing environmentally friendly steel, providing attendees with a glimpse into the future of sustainable manufacturing.

If you are interested in visiting the CBM Mini-Expo, please email Rachael Bromley at rachael.bromley@thecbm.co.uk to book a place.

7th International Trade Fair for Fastener and Fixing Technology 25th -26 th September 2024 Krakow, Poland

Why Poland? Why Krakow?

● The third largest market for fasteners in Europe

● A leader among European furniture manufacturers

● Poland is the largest producer of doors, garage doors and windows in Europe

● Continous developement of the truck and car equipment production sector

● Highly developed Polish aviation industry

● The most prestigious fair in Central and Eastern Europe

Fastener Taiwan attracts international buyers

Organised by the International Trade Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs (TITA), and jointly executed by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) and the Taiwan Industrial Fasteners Institute (TIFI), Fastener Taiwan 2024 concluded successfully on 7 th June with over 10,000 professional buyers and industry insiders from 60 different countries and regions.

Fastener Taiwan 2024 brought together over 300 domestic and international exhibitors, occupying nearly 1,000 booths – a 20% increase in scale compared to the previous edition. The exhibition attracted professional buyers and industry insiders from a number of countries, with the top five buyer countries being India, Japan, the United States, Vietnam and Germany.

This year’s Fastener Taiwan highlighted three main attractions –the High Value Fastener Gallery, which showcased high value added fasteners for different industry applications, as well as highlighted the diversity and production flexibility of the industry chain; the Sustainability Zone, in response to the global trend towards ‘net zero’ carbon emissions, which displayed innovative achievements in energy saving, carbon reduction and circular economy technologies within the fastener industry; as well as the introduction of the ESG Pioneer Sustainability Label, which increased the visibility of ESG compliant companies but also helps businesses align with international standards.

Several industry exchange activities were also held during the exhibition. The Global Fastener Forum, held on the first morning, attracted a full house of industry professionals. Experts and corporate leaders from home and abroad discussed current hot topics, such as production line digitisation, the EU CBAM, and Artificial Intelligence factories, providing valuable references and suggestions for industry players.

The second day’s activities were equally exciting, with the procurement policy briefing by F. Reyher Nchfg GmbH & Co KG attracting

a large audience. The practical briefing on EU CBAM also provided advice for Taiwanese companies. Additionally, TAITRA invited international buyers from 13 countries, including the USA, Japan, Germany, Spain, France, the UK, Sweden, Bulgaria, Brazil, and Hungary, to visit Taiwan for 162 business meetings with exhibitors – helping fastener companies explore potential business opportunities.

The next exhibition is scheduled for 2026.

Visitor registration opens for Fastener Fair Italy 2024

Online registrations are now open for the 4th edition of Fastener Fair Italy, the biennial event dedicated to the fastener and fixing industry, taking place from 29th – 30th October 2024 at CityLife – Allianz MiCo, in Milan.

Fastener Fair Italy is a two day event dedicated to fastening and fixing technologies, where national and international producers and distributors will showcase their products, equipment and services. At the show, attendees can expect to see the latest innovations and technological advancements in the industry.

The strong participation in the event is underlined by the presence of over 190 exhibitors from more than 18 countries – with a strong representation of companies from Italy, Germany, Turkey, China and Taiwan.

Among the exhibitors already confirmed are Ambrovit SpA, Fosfantartiglio L.E.I. SpA, Bull-Vit Srl, Vipa SpA, Berardi Bullonerie Srl, VITAL SpA, LINKWELL Industry Co Ltd, Böllhoff Srl, Piloni Srl, UGC Ugur Gürbüz Civata AS, Bralo Italia, Carlo Salvi SpA, Lederer GmbH, Fastbolt Schraubengroßhandels GmbH, ISB Baglanti Elemanlari San Tic Ltd Sti, pgb Europe NV, DIV Group vand many more.

The show represents a unique opportunity and a central meeting point for industry professionals. It offers a platform to share new trends, launch new products, and promote corporate marketing activities. Attendees will also have the chance to personally meet customers, suppliers, and business partners, all gathered under one roof in one of Europe’s leading industrial economies.

The fastener market has become strategic in many production sectors, including automotive, aerospace, manufacturing and construction. With an average annual growth rate of 2.3% expected over the next five years, and projected sales to reach approximately US$2 billion by 2025, the Italian fastener market is experiencing strong growth. This expansion is also driven by the internationalisation of markets, presenting significant opportunities for commercial expansion across the entire sector. www.fastenerfairitaly.com

Fastener Training Week returns to Chicago

Fastener Training Week, a fastener training programme from the Fastener Training Institute (FTI), is returning to Chicago this year from 19 th – 23 rd August, at the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort hosted by the Mid-West Fastener Association (MWFA) as part of its annual FSTNR Week.

Fastener Training Week, FTI’s advanced technical training programme, includes a full week of classroom training, case studies, learning labs, hands on exercises, fastener manufacturing and testing facility tours and more. At the end of the week, students who pass a final exam receive Certified Fastener Specialist (CFS) designation, the highest achievement and recognition for fastener professionals.

“We had our largest class in Chicago last year and we are excited to be back. Coupling our training with the MWFA’s FSTNR Week gives attendees a chance to visit the table top show with added networking opportunities,” says Jo Morris, marketing director at the Fastener Training Institute.

Fastener Training Week is designed for fastener distributors, manufacturers, end users, OEMs, purchasers, engineers, and sales and quality assurance professionals, and includes a multitude of in-depth training topics, including understanding how fasteners fail, testing standards, fastener finishes and inspecting fastener dimensional features. The Chicago session will be taught by industry experts Laurence Claus, IFI director of education and training and Carmen Vertullo, owner and founder of Carver Labs.

Registration includes five days of training, educational materials, continental breakfast and lunch, transportation for plant tours, certification of completion and eligibility for the CFS designation and entrance into the MWFA table top show.

EVENTS CALENDAR

Fastener Fair Mexico

Jalisco, Mexico

5 Sep – 7 Sep 2024

www.fastenerfairmexico.com

The fastener event for Mexico.

Fastener Fair India

New Delhi, India

26 Jul – 28 Jul 2024

www.fastenerfairindia.com

The fastener event for India.

Fastener Expo Southeast Asia

Jakarta, Indonesia

21 Aug – 23 Aug 2024

www.mcteworld.com

Professional exhibition covering the fields of finished fasteners, fastener equipment and technology.

Intersolar South America

São Paulo, Brazil

27 Aug – 29 Aug 2024

www.intersolar.net.br

Exhibition for the South American solar industry.

SchraubTec Bochum

Bochum, Germany

4 Sep 2024

www.schraubtec.com

German regional trade fair for screw connections.

International Fastener Expo

Las Vegas, USA

9 Sep – 11 Sep 2024

www.fastenershows.com

B2B trade show catering for the entire fastener supply chain.

International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS)

Chicago, USA

9 Sep – 14 Sep 2024

www.imts.com

The largest industry trade show for manfuacturing technology.

The 27 th China Adhesives and Sealants Expo

Shanghai, China

19 Sep – 21 Sep 2024

https://en.chinaadhesive2000.com

Adhesives and sealants expo in China.

Afera’s 67th Annual Conference of the European Adhesive Tape Industry

Thessaloniki, Greece

25 Sep – 27 Sep 2024

www.aferatapeconference.com

The event for the European tape industry.

wire China

Shanghai, China

25 Sep – 28 Sep 2024

www.wirechina.net

Wire and cable, including fastener manufacturing technology.

BATIMAT

Paris, France

30 Sep – 3 Oct 2024

www.batimat.com

The international trade fair for the construction industry.

UK Construction Week

Birmingham, UK

1 Oct – 3 Oct 2024

www.ukconstructionweek.com

The UK’s largest construction event.

China International Hardware Show

Shanghai, China

21 Oct – 23 Oct 2024

www.hardwareshow-china.com

Tools, security systems, locks, DIY and building hardware fair.

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS INSIGHT

AND NEWS ON THE CONSTRUCTION MARKET

LIGHT-DUTY FIXINGS FEATURE

Fixings in a jar

pgb-Europe N.V has recently introduced a range of SMART nylon plugs in a new type of modern and attractive jar packaging, with a large opening for easy access to the product.

The reusable and 100% recyclable jars are fitted with a convenient lockable lid with handle. All relative product information is easily accessible thanks to the QR code on the labels.

One of the products available in these new jars are the universal nylon plugs XUP. These nylon plugs, with four expansion zones, give excellent results in all construction materials. They can be used with both woodscrews or chipboard screws.

Another type of product available in the jars is the hammer nail plug PKK. These pre-assembled nail anchors are ideal for the fixing of wooden and metal supporting constructions, cable and pipe clamps, etc. The hammer nail plug can easily be hammered in so there is no need for a setting tool.

www.pgb-europe.com

LIGHT-DUTY FIXINGS FEATURE

New fixing bands from Owlett-Jaton

Owlett-Jaton, the UK and Ireland’s leading wholesale supplier of fasteners, fixings, and associated products, has introduced three new JCP-branded plastic coated fixing bands to its range.

Colour options include red, white, and black, designed to either blend in or contrast with the application, and are all available in 10m lengths.

The fixing bands are ideal for general purpose strapping, supporting and securing in a multitude of applications. They are flexible, versatile and easy to cut. The bands are perforated, which removes the need to drill, saving time, and are supplied in a rigid plastic dispenser, making them easy to use, carry and store.

Plastic coated, the bands provide added corrosion resistance, meaning that they can be used as a lightweight brace for internal and external use.

The introduction complements the existing fixing band range from JCP, which includes 3M and 10M lengths, available in mechanical galvanised and A2 stainless steel, with round or straight profiles, all of which are perforated.

www.jcpfixings.co.uk

LIGHT-DUTY FIXINGS FEATURE

Versatile indoor and outdoor applications

Eurotec’s Blue-Power system screw offers a wide range of applications both indoors – on timber framing on concrete or masonry such as suspended ceilings or wall classing, as well as outdoors – in ventilated rainscreen cladding with faÇade insulation.

Capable of absorbing both tensile and shear forces, the BluePower system screw features insulation material that absorb some of the shear forces when fixing the insulation to the wall.

Manufactured from case hardened carbon steel, the screw is durable and meets the requirements of corrosivity categories C4 long and C5-M long in accordance with EN 12944-6. It is also suitable for use in Service Classes 1 and 2 to EN 1995-1-1 (Eurocode 5).

The Blue-Power façade fixing system provides a quick and easy solution for fixing timber framing to concrete or masonry. On request, Eurotec GmbH can also calculate on roof insulation systems for solid roof constructions with the Blue-Power system screw.

www.eurotec.team

fischer fixings for light loads

Fixing solutions for light to medium loads are a major contributor to the functionality and comfort of the home environment. That is why fischer offers a wide range of products and clever solutions for these types of applications, including intelligent anchors such as the fischer DuoLine with an innovative combination of materials.

fischer DuoLine plugs are suitable for fixing numerous home furnishings, accessories and installations in private homes on walls and ceilings. Taking into account all the necessary parameters, while being faced with a wide selection of options, has made it difficult for DIYers to choose plugs in the past. This is why fischer DuoLine plugs, with an innovative combination of materials, are such a clever solution. The plugs have multiple functions that allow them to self activate in the existing construction material. This allows DIYers to always find the right DuoLine plug for almost any conventional application around the home, whether they’re working with solid, hollow or panel materials. The intelligent plugs also offer maximum safety and successful fastenings without requiring lots of effort and research.

The DuoLine product family consists of five intelligent plugs with an innovative combination of materials, starting with the DuoPower, which

self activates the right function in any anchor substrate by folding, expanding or knotting. Additional products include the fischer DuoTec for high loads in any type of panel building material; the DuoBlade, which was specially designed for gypsum plasterboard, gypsum fibre board and lightweight cement board; as well as the DuoSeal, which enables secure fastenings while reliably sealing drill holes in wet areas –with it suitable for tiled surfaces and able to securely anchor in solid, porous and panel construction materials.

The fifth member of the DuoLine range is fischer’s DuoXpand frame fixing, which features a clever combination of materials and design, with various anchoring depths that suit the respective anchor substrate guaranteeing a secure and flexible application in solid and hollow construction materials. Hexagon and countersunk head screw versions are also suitable for various applications in metal and timber construction.

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

Recent European Technical Assessments for fixings

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

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

ETA NUMBER TRADE NAME COMPANY

Plastic anchors for fixing of ETICS

Bonded fasteners for use in concrete

ETA - 24/0301 RESINFIX E 600 Bonded anchor CHRYSO ITALIA Srl

ETA - 24/0343 Universal Scell-it (UK) Group Ltd

ETA - 24/0344 Highload Scell-it (UK) Group Ltd

ETA - 24/0473 BIZFIX-P Bizline SAS

ETA - 24/0489 D-TECH DTCAPOL Vermont Sales Pty Ltd

ETA - 24/0491 Vermont D-TECH DTCAVYN Vermont Sales Pty Ltd

ETA - 24/0507 Hobson Engineering Vinylester V401

ETA - 24/0509 Hobson Engineering Polyester P201

ETA - 24/0513 Hobson Engineering Hybrid H501

ETA - 24/0514 Hobson Engineering Epoxy E701

Injection anchors for use in masonry

Hobson Engineering Co Py Ltd

Hobson Engineering Co Py Ltd

Hobson Engineering Co Py Ltd

Hobson Engineering Co Py Ltd

ETA - 24/0414 Kemires VINYL CTR Bonded anchor Kimia SpA

ETA - 24/0472 BIZFIX-P Bizline SAS

ETA - 24/0490 D-TECH DTCAPOL Vermont Sales Pty Ltd

ETA - 24/0492 Vermont D-TECH DTCAVYN Vermont Sales Pty Ltd

ETA - 24/0504 Hobson Engineering Vinylester V401 Hobson Engineering Co Py Ltd

ETA - 24/0508 Hobson Engineering Polyester P201 Hobson Engineering Co Py Ltd

ETA - 24/0512 Hobson Engineering Hybrid H501 Hobson Engineering Co Py Ltd

ETA - 24/0528 TCM MPRO Trutek Fasteners Polska Sp z o.o.

Mortar systems for use in concrete

ETA - 24/0292 Licata Antifall System made of: FRP mesh Licata CRM Net 48, Licata CRM Net 80, Licata CRM Net 120 FRP mesh corner element Licata CRM Corner 80 FRP connectors Licata CRM Connector

ETA - 24/0355 Armoflex CRM

LICATA SpA

COLMEF Srl

ETA - 24/0340 Q60*8*95, 115, 135, 155, 175, 195 mm SP STAR STEEL NAİL ANCHOR Star Plastik Yapi Elemanlari Izolasyon Malzemeleri A.S.

ETA - 24/0341 Q60*10*100, 120, 140, 160, 180, 200 mm SP STAR PLASTİC NAİL ANCHOR Star Plastik Yapi Elemanlari Izolasyon Malzemeleri A.S.

ETA - 24/0342 Q60*10*200, 220, 240, 260, 280, 300 mm SP STAR STEEL NAİL ANCHOR Star Plastik Yapi Elemanlari Izolasyon Malzemeleri A.S.

Fasteners for use in concrete

ETA - 24/0360 Ningbo Anker Fasteners anchor type AWA Ningbo Anker Special Fasteners Ind. Ltd

ETA - 24/0392 MUNGO MBS & MBSr MUNGO Befestigungstechnik AG

ETA - 24/0399 Ceiling anchor SDA (CE) ITW Construction Products Italy Srl

ETA - 24/0411 Kemires EPOXY CTR Bonded anchor Kimia SpA

ETA - 24/0413 Kemires VINYL CTR Bonded anchor Kimia SpA

Screws and threaded rods for use in timber constructions

ETA - 24/0390 TEROX Screws LOGIN BV D.O.O.

ETA - 24/0396 Senco Wood Construction Screws Kyocera SENCO Netherlands

ETA - 24/0398 suki Chipboard Screw and suki Wood Construction Screw Suki International GmbH

Linear joint and gap seals

ETA - 24/0364 Isover Protect Acrylic Saint-Gobain Denmark A/S: Isover A/S

ETA - 24/0367 Isover Protect Coating Saint-Gobain Denmark A/S: Isover A/S

ETA - 24/0369 Isover Protect Coated Board / Isover Protect Flexiboard Saint-Gobain Denmark A/S: Isover A/S

ETA - 24/0377 GRAFT IPT Multi Sealant & Adhesive Polyseam Ltd

ETA - 24/0387 WT CONSTRUCTION VOLTECO SpA

ETA - 24/0482 Proflame Firestop Silicone Sealant Proco Muhendislik Danismanlik Insaat Ve Teknik Kimyasallar Sanayi Dis Ticaret Limited Sirk

ETA - 24/0485 Proflame Firestop Acrylic Sealant Proco Muhendislik Danismanlik Insaat Ve Teknik Kimyasallar Sanayi Dis Ticaret Limited Sirk

Wolf Group opens PU foam factory in Spain

European building chemicals producer Wolf Group has opened a PU foam factory in Spain, marking the beginning of foam production not only in Iberia but in the entire Mediterranean, North African and near east regions.

Located in Gavà, Barcelona, it is Wolf Group’s second factory in the region and its 5 th in Europe – representing the Group’s continuing growth and expansion and helping to serve focus markets more effectively in western Europe and the USA.

Wolf Group´s strong presence in Spain proved to be decisive in selecting the location of the new facility. Located next to the Wolf Group Ibérico S.A.U sealants factory, the new PU foam factory represents an investment of €12 million. The facility generates up to 50 new jobs, many of them unprecedented on the peninsula.

“Globalisation has made us vulnerable; it is not feasible to relocate the entire industry to China or low cost developing countries without endangering our existence,” explains Jaan Puusaag, founder of Wolf Group OÜ. “You can’t digitalise everything either; for everyday life, people need physical things. Industrial companies are important employers as they involve all social groups and contribute to regional development through tax revenue.”

The PU foam factory has been equipped with the most advanced technology and will be capable of manufacturing more than 70 foam combinations in the initial phase alone, including low-MDI, no-MDI and regular foams. More than 5 million units are expected to be produced in the first year.

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

Working Group to revise ISO 6789

Here Stefan Baus of GEDORE and Rainer Janecke of STAHLWILLE Germany, members of the Working Group ISO/TC 29/SC 10/WG 3, discuss how a revision of the current version of ISO 6789 will help make clear whether the calibration of torque wrenches can be simplified without compromising the quality of the result.

There is a lack of acceptance in the market for the current edition of ISO 6789:2017, which has led to calls for an editorial and regular revision (every five years), as well as a revision of the content. The international Working Group ISO/TC 29/SC 10/WG 3 is tackling this major challenge. Several goals are being pursued with the new version of ISO 6789. One goal is to provide more transparency about the addressees of both parts: ISO 6789-1 is aimed at manufacturers only and ISO 6789-2 is aimed at calibration laboratories accredited based on ISO/IEC 17025 and calibration services. They want to record all detectable influences in the application of a hand-operated torque tool with the respective individual measurement uncertainty (MU) and to output them as a total MU. ISO 6789-2 will make sure that these procedures and their results are comparable all over the world.

In addition, we aim to reduce the complexity of ISO 6789-2 without compromising on quality and informative value. For instance, hand operated screwdriving tools previously used on the market but not included in ISO 6789 are to be newly included, such as the ‘Slipper’.

Until the current edition of ISO 6789, the calibration of an angle function integrated in torque wrenches was not considered in ISO 6789. The ISO/TC 29/SC 10/WG 3 Working Group wants to meet this requirement with the new edition. Also new is the approach of describing a valid process for a test between the intervals of an annual calibration or MCT (machine capability test) in order to optimise a company’s internal processes. All in all, a hard and extensive piece of work. However, it is good to know that a dedicated team of experts from many countries is taking on this task.

New CFE Working Group on pre-installed fasteners

The European association Construction Fixings Europe (CFE) has enlarged its scope with a new Working Group on pre-installed fasteners in concrete, such as anchor channels and reinforcement products.

The new Working Group consists of three new CFE member companies, MAX FRANK , Leviat Limited and PohlCon GmbH, as well as the established CFE members fischer and Hilti. During the kick-off workshop of the new Group on 5 th June, several fields of activity were decided, including networking with other stakeholders; publication of technical guidelines for designers and end users; maintenance of European Assessment Documents and Eurocodes; and activities to ensure a level playing field. Thomas Holland-Letz, technical director at CFE, welcomed the decision of this Group to join CFE and emphasised the synergies between the existing Working Group for post-installed anchors and this new Group with respect to the implementation of the new CPR, sustainability and digitalisation. After the kick-off workshop, the Group joined the CFE Spring Meeting to discuss the implications of the new EU Construction Products Regulation (CPR) for the holders of European Technical Assessments (ETAs). www.construction-fixings.eu

Pictured (left to right): Dr Frank Häusler (Leviat), Björn Wingerter (PohlCon), Dr Ulrich Bourgund (CFE chairman), Moritz Michel ( MAX FRANK ), Dr Philipp Grosser (Hilti), Dr Thilo Pregartner (fischer) and Dr Roland Unterweger (fischer)

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

Improving construction safety using BIM

Building Information Modeling (BIM) emerged as a transformative force in the late 1990s and early 2000s, reshaping the way the construction industry approaches building design, construction and management. However, Hilti Group has recognised BIM not only as a tool for improving efficiency and sustainability but also as a critical enhancer of safety for both infrastructure and the individuals who build and occupy it.

The role of BIM is to facilitate superior collaboration and communication among all project stakeholders, such as architects, engineers, contractors, and owners, thus mitigating traditional gaps that may lead to inefficiencies and errors. That is why, when it comes to construction technologies, Hilti is leveraging BIM to deliver innovative solutions across design, engineering, prefabrication and installation processes –helping to maximise productivity, reduce costs and notably help enhance safety across all aspects of construction.

Safety of the building: Engineered fire protection

Fire safety is a concern in construction, essential not only for compliance with standards but also for the assurance of long-term building integrity and occupant safety. Hilti utilises BIM technology to enhance fire safety measures from the initial design phase, helping to ensure that optimal fire containment strategies are embedded in the building blueprint. Hilti’s comprehensive fire protection approach includes:

Firestop products: Advanced solutions specifically engineered to seal openings and joints in fire-rated walls and floors, helping to prevent the spread of fire, smoke and harmful gases.

Firestop software: Applications that support specifiers and contractors in the selection, specification and documentation of firestop solutions, working to ensure compliance with all applicable codes and standards.

Firestop services: Hilti extends its expertise beyond products by offering firestop engineering training, product training, and engineering judgements by certified personnel, to ensure that fire safety systems can be used in a particular situation.

By integrating these components through BIM, Hilti ensures that its firestop solutions are consistent, code compliant and fully traceable. BIM also facilitates better coordination with other trades, while optimising firestop installation to minimise waste and reduce both installation time and ongoing maintenance costs.

Optimising MEP support systems

The safety and functionality of Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) systems are crucial for any building’s operation, but the design, engineering and installation of MEP supports can be fraught with challenges due to the complexity of the systems involved. Hilti’s BIM-centric approach not only streamlines these processes but also enhances the safety of the workers tasked with the MEP systems installation.

By leveraging BIM, Hilti can design and engineer MEP supports with precision, which are then prefabricated in a controlled environment. This reduces the need for complex, risky tasks at the construction site, such as welding; working at heights to install ductwork; operating heavy machinery in tight spaces; and manual lifting and alignment of large components.

Utilising robotics for tasks such as overhead drilling, based on detailed digital designs, also significantly lowers the risk of accidents. For instance, the Jaibot – Hilti’s semi-autonomous construction robot –removes the need for workers to perform hazardous tasks, such as working at heights and handling heavy machinery. The Jaibot also includes an embedded vacuum system that controls dust and reduces exposure, providing an important health benefit for workers.

To add to this, Hilti’s impact wrenches are fitted with adaptive torque modules, which help ensure precise torque application and compliance with approvals, automating installation and documentation.

Extended applications of BIM in safety management

BIM’s capabilities extend beyond design and installation to encompass safety management throughout the lifecycle of a building. By creating detailed digital representations, BIM enables project managers to simulate and analyse potential safety issues before they become real problems on-site. This proactive approach not only helps in identifying risks but also in developing strategies to mitigate them effectively.

For instance, BIM allows for the virtual testing of emergency response strategies, enhancing building evacuation plans and safety protocols. This kind of simulation helps to ensure that buildings are not only safe to construct but also safe to inhabit and maintain over time.

Committed to training and support

To fully realise the benefits of BIM, Hilti provides comprehensive training and ongoing support to its customers. The company’s experts are not just versed in BIM technology, they are also skilled in its application to real world construction challenges. Additionally, Hilti offers regular workshops, webinars and on-site training sessions to ensure that all stakeholders can effectively utilise BIM technologies, helping to enhance safety and efficiency.

“Today, Building Information Modeling is seen as a significant technological advancement, supporting the transformation of the construction industry,” states Hilti. “That is why at Hilti we are dedicated to further incorporating BIM into our products, services and collaborations with customers. Our approach aims to contribute to a safer and more efficient construction environment. By strategically utilising BIM, we strive to provide innovative solutions that focus on enhancing the safety of buildings and supporting the professionals involved in their construction.”

Your skills, our wood screws.

A durable and ecologically friendly wood screw!

We believe in sustainability! The Hapax wood screw with 4Top coating was designed with envirnmental consciousness in mind. The coating not only protects the screws but also ensures a longer lifetime, reducing the need for replacements and contributing to a greener, more sustainable approach to construction.

• Free bit included in every box.

• The recess for screw diameters 3,5, 4,0, 4,5 en 5,0 are unified to a Tx20 stick-fit recess.

• The new 4Top coating offers a highly corrosion-resistant performance against atmospheric corrosion and aggressive substances that may be present in wood.

For pgb-Europe it is our daily aim to provide our customers with quality products and service to match. We have been an established supplier and manufacturer for fasteners and fixings for more than 60 years. It has been in our genes for 3 generations. Order now!

NEWS IN BRIEF CONSTRUCTION

Rapierstar agrees fastener supply partnership with Europlas

Rapierstar is supporting Europlas as it expands its current network of trade counters throughout South Wales, including Buckley, Flintshire, and Winsford, Cheshire, with new branches also coming soon in Scotland and another in South Wales.

Europlas branches supply a wide range of exterior and interior products to the window, door, roofing and joinery markets, plus hardware and tools, making the Rapierstar brand a perfect fit. Amongst the Rapierstar products now available at Europlas are StarFix® masonry fixings and StarTurn® universal woodscrews.

Advances in post installation anchoring

LIEBIG® Ultraplus heavy-duty anchors have recently demonstrated that post installation anchoring can offer performance equivalent to that of cast in anchors, whilst also being better suited to the complexities of modern construction processes.

Used in a GB£121 million (€142.7 million) Herring Bridge project to create a new lifting bridge over the River Yare in Great Yarmouth, UK, the design required EJOT to produce and deploy two lengths of M36 size LIEBIG® Ultraplus heavy-duty anchors, with the longest being 1.45m in length and the shortest 1.09m – both lengths being used on the same baseplates in an unconventional yet successful design approach.

Strong-Drive® SDWS timber screws now available in black

Simpson Strong-Tie now offers its Strong-Drive® SDWS timber screw with a double barrier black exterior coating.

Adding the black exterior coating means the Strong-Drive® SDWS timber screws not only offer strength and durability but also add a touch of aesthetics to outdoor living spaces, making them an ideal choice for deck framing, fencing, pergolas and more.

Samac Fixings unveils new TEK screw range

Samac Fixings Limited has announced the launch of its TEK screw range, engineered for a wide range of applications where materials such as wood and metal need to be screwed together – without the need for pre-drilling.

TEK screws feature a self-tapping thread, allowing them to cut their own thread into the material they are fastening, along with a drilling point. This dual functionality offers a quick and effective way to join two materials seamlessly.

Hydrajaws launches Verify Torque

Hydrajaws Ltd has announced the expansion of its digital solutions with the introduction of Verify Torque, an innovative Bluetooth enabled torque wrench adaptor that has been designed to seamlessly integrate with existing tools.

Verify Torque allows users to capture torque data via a dedicated reporting App, which not only ensures that all measurements comply with manufacturers recommendations, but also provides comprehensive traceability. Data collected is also securely stored in the Cloud, offering users easy access and peace of mind knowing their data is protected and available anytime, anywhere.

Long concrete screws for insulated ceilings

CELO’s new BTS6 E long with M8 connection thread provides fast and secure solutions for attaching appliances and other objects to insulated, concrete ceilings.

Designed for specific use with insulation ceilings, the new BTS6 E long screw has an extended screw length, which can span larger insulation thicknesses, and its new M8 connection thread helps make it an ideal choice for applications on insulated, or dry wall suspended ceilings.

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

DEVELOPMENTS WITHIN MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT

TOOLING, DIES + PUNCHES FEATURE

The complex relationship of operators and tooling

Here Peter Standring, technical secretary at Industrial Metalforming Technologies, seeks to explain the knowledge and experience required to obtain and utilise the optimum advantage for tooling employed for fastener production, including aspects of design, material selection, manufacture and use.

Tools exist to enable tasks to be carried out, with the right tool for the right job, used in the correct manner, often leading to an efficient completion of the task at hand. A change in any of the variables associated with the task – the material being worked, the techniques employed, the production demands – will inevitably have some impact on the result. To optimise the result requires a comprehensive knowledge of what the task entails. Breaking this into its simplest components – as in a flow chart – will provide a useful starting point. This should identify all aspects of the task that involve variable outputs and possible iterations.

The simple statement ‘produce a hole’, opens up a profound number of possibilities covering every option from using a spade to electron beams. Fasteners pervade every part of human activity and the tooling used to produce them can vary from injection moulding equipment, weaving commercial braid or squeeze/cutting materials to shape.

Although not always appreciated, approximately 95% of all product costs occur at the design stage. Once a design has been adopted attempts to reduce costs at all subsequent stages in manufacture and logistics are very much secondary options. ‘Freedom of design’ is a most valuable commodity, with the very best design incorporating all elements of manufacture, maintenance and in-service monitoring.

Where a design is already determined and a manufacturer is required to simply ‘make to drawing’, options to reduce manufacturing costs by redesign, to ensure functionality and achieve ‘cost effectiveness’, do not often exist.

Simple cost savings

Simple but often highly effective cost cutting design changes include only applying engineering tolerances (dimensional and geometric)

Although not always appreciated, approximately 95% of all product costs occur at the design stage.”

where the ‘design function’ requires them. This aspect of manufacture becomes increasingly important given the growth of digital inspection systems, which can quickly and easily identify features that may be out of compliance with the component drawing and yet have zero influence on the functionality of the part. This aspect of unnecessary customer demand often results from inappropriate ‘in-house’ design practice such as employing ‘blanket’ tolerances. To the manufacturer meeting unnecessary tolerances represents totally unnecessary expenditure. This in turn will reduce the option to invest in equipment, which could provide a real functional benefit in, for example, surface improvement.

Another area that can result in cost savings is the selection of, and/or approval for, the manufacturer’s use of workpiece materials, which are available, well understood and equivalent or functionally superior to those of the original design. There is also the option for the customer’s designer to work directly with a supplier’s technical specialists in improving the manufacturability of the design. Any relationship created to achieve these ends will improve the bottom line of both organisations in the short, medium and longer term.

M MFSeries

icro Former

Nakashimada MF Series Micro Formers

The Nakashimada MH/MF series micro headers/formers are designed to manufacture high precision miniature components. In use by major electronic, computer, watch and mobile phone manufactures world-wide. All MH/MF series feature punch (fingerless) transfer, incorporating a unique sliding die mechanism for short, difficult to transfer miniature parts.

Available from 1D2B to 4D5B with wire size from 0.5mm to 6.0mm diameter.

NAKASHIMADA RONDERSON

MACHINERY LIMITED

SHENZHEN, CHINA

Phone: +86 (0) 755-822-11008

Fax: +86 (0) 755-612-37382

Mobile: +86 1355-477-0032

Email: new@ronderson.com

NAKASHIMADA EUROPE

Himmelreich 6, 96224 Burgkunstadt

Germany

Phone: +49 (0) 9572-754803

Fax: +49 (0) 174-6441050

Email: narumi.fukui@nakashimada.org

1700 units in service

Nakashimada has more than 45 years of miniature cold forming experience. The MH/MF series has acquired the reputation for durability, precision, and reliability.

NAKASHIMADA USA

14555 Valley View Ave. Suite D Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670

Phone: +1 (0) 562-926-2419

Fax +1 (0) 562-404-2342

Email: krista.poirier@nakashimada.us

to find an agent near you.

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

Material selection

As in all metals manufacture, there is a workpiece material and the tooling used to work it. It goes without saying that the properties of the tooling must exceed those of the workpiece – but by how much, where and why? As stated above, workpiece selection is a design choice, that of the tooling used to work it lies entirely within the domain of the manufacturer. After all, it is their equipment, knowledge and skills that are to be used to fulfil the supply contract.

It is interesting to note that in only 30 years, the global steel industry has been transformed by its association with the automotive industry. In the 1990s, due to environmental pressures, the automotive industry sought performance salvation for its ever increasing vehicle mass by turning to aluminium alloy spaceframe construction. The steel industry’s response was its development of advanced high strength materials (AHSS) – up to eight times that of low carbon steel. Strength is a function of both the material stress/strain characteristics and its distribution (shape). The combination of complex geometries obtained by hydroforming and stiffness of up to 1,900MPa by hot stamping and rapid cooling (10 seconds) followed by laser trimming (10 seconds), provided both weight and cost reductions. These nullified much of the lightweighting benefits of aluminium alloys in automotive production. However, for those employed in the manufacture of components that utilised AHSS, the problems of dealing with such properties caused a rethink of both the equipment and tooling required to handle them.

The adoption of AHSS did contribute to significant performance benefits through lightweighting and these were made exploitable by the ability to form complex geometry parts, thus eliminating previous multi-component fabricated assemblies. Typical of these were stamped body panels (often using tailor welded blanks to obtain variations in base thickness), suspension beams, pillars and rails – made possible by cold roll formed sections, as well as hydroforming. Whilst these cost reducing/performance enhancing developments significantly improved the automotive manufacturer’s bottom line, and helped achieve the vehicle safety/emissions ratings, they also imposed a new and often problematic situation to those who needed to attach other componentry to the vehicle.

Interactive design

It is hard to imagine that in one working lifetime we have moved from component classification within individual manufacturing companies, through group technology – where families of different components could be identified. From each data source emerged standardisation, rationalisation, cellular and ‘Just in Time’ manufacture, as well as Kanban along with a host of other techniques to enable efficient production.

Even with a long-standing association with the automotive sector, as well as other markets, it is still common for a new vehicle’s internal and external specifications (model shape) to be decided and created by the automotive company design office – with fastener companies expected to create solutions that meet the specifications, even if there is extremely limited space available between the inside and exterior.

The simplest action to meet the specification is to buy ‘off the shelf’ or to use existing stock. This is fine for fastener manufacturers assuming their ‘off the shelf’ products meet the newer developments, which have been specified in the design of the new model to meet regulations, legislation and market demand.

This apparent superiority of buyers and end users over suppliers has no place in the manufacturing environment of today. It is certainly true that designers working in specific sectors have specialist knowledge, which sets them apart from those who operate outside that sector. What is also true is that those who design fasteners have a specialisation that designers outside this sector will not be able to match. Therefore, it makes absolute sense for designers who work for OEMs to seek the advice

and support from those whose specialisation they wish to obtain. This is particularly true where the OEM introduces new materials, of whatever type (metals and non-metals), which the fastener designer may not be familiar with.

Controlling the variables of tooling

Fast forward to today, and for decades the International Cold Forging Group (ICFG), a non commercial body of experts, has been studying, reviewing and publishing how to identify and control the variables associated with tooling, its production and use. Some of the basic factors concerned are listed in Table One.

One: Tooling considerations for fastener manufacture

Matters for consideration

Part to be made

Tool – punch/die

Process

Requirements

Manufacture

Inspection

Use

Management

Factors involved

Geometry, features, stress raisers, material, amount

Materials, life expectancy, cost (hard but not brittle – tough but not plastic)

Loading – constant, impact, cyclic

Hardness, strength, fatigue, wear

In-house, out sourced, method, soft/hard, surface finish

Documentation/data

Monitor and record, data capture, failure analysis/prediction, problem solving

Storage/refurbishment, full documentation, predictive planning

Table

S&P Software Consulting + Solutions GmbH is specialized in developing construction, dimensioning and product software –available in over 30 languages and 60 countries

DESIGN SOFTWARE FOR ANCHORING STRUCTURAL TIMBERS

With over 20 years of experience, we make our in-depth expertise available to all our partners. Our software ensures acceptance reliability, increasing use and frequency of our partners’ products as well as dimensioning in accordance with national and international technical regulations. We have also been ISO 9001 certified since 2015. From the basic calculation kernel to the user interface – we provide customized programs tailored to your requirements.

S&P Software Consulting + Solutions GmbH Rathenaustraße 54, 04179 Leipzig, Germany +49 341 442 460 • info@sup-scs.de www.sup-gruppe.com • www.sup-scs.de

PROCESS TRACK OFFICE

INNOVATION AND DIGITIZATION OF FORMING PROCESSES FOR INDUSTRY 4.0

The post-process data evaluation offers the possibility to analyze and evaluate the entire process data for the first time. Important conclusions can be found about process variation, setting of monitoring limits and recognition of process influences during the whole production run. The knowledge acquired is helpful in determining the optimum process parameters and provides detailed conclusions about tool wear.

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

A comprehensive list of the ICFG subgroup activities dealing with tool life and tool quality has also been published by Meisenbach Verlag Bamberg, Germany. These are shown in Table Two.

Part I

Part II

Part III

Part IV

Part V

Thinking aloud

General aspects of tool life (Doc 14/02) definitions, practical approach, tool life monitoring, tool management

Quality requirements for tool manufacturing (Doc 16/04), manufacturing factors influencing tool life and tool quality

Tool materials (Doc 17/06) PM steel vs tungsten carbide

CAE methodologies (Doc 22/12) tool life prediction and improvements

Surface finishing (Doc 23/13) finishing technologies and the role of the tool surface

Tooling is naturally fundamental to any metalworking operation. It’s not just the technology that matters but also the philosophy of how it is used. On a works visit to a top of the range global company, which had its own forging facilities, a main board director proudly waved his arm in the direction of the tool storage area and stated, “In here we have GB£43 million of tooling.” In the same year, visiting another mainstream automotive supplier using Hatebur hot forging machines, eating 20 tonnes of steel per hour, I recall the plant manager casually saying: “Of course, we operate a three tool system, one in the machine, one to replace it and a third that requires finishing.”

At another plant where a company was using a five station machine to develop an automotive valve spring retainer by cold forming, numerous trials had only succeeded in obtaining a maximum life of 700 parts prior to catastrophic punch failure.

Cold calling, a representative of a Taiwanese toolmaking company was given a drawing of the failing tool and within seven days had

“…it makes absolute sense for designers who work for OEMs to seek the advice and support from those whose specialisation they wish to obtain.”

supplied a trial tool. This ran for over 60,000 parts. Having the tool material analysed, the company found it to be nothing special. Given that all other variables were identical and better quality steels had been used in the failed trials, it was discovered the problem lay with the heat treaters and a degree of misplaced confidence over the belief that what had been specified had in fact been delivered.

In conclusion, as everyone knows, to be in control you must have control over all aspects of every variable. Clearly, this, like perfection, is not possible. However, knowing where problems can exist and how to limit them is the first step on the ladder of success. The ICFG has produced such a ladder for tool life and tool quality, which those in the business of fastener manufacture should be aware of.

The data gathered in gaining control is the bedrock on which a predictive maintenance programme can be based. Once this has been achieved, ‘Just in Time’ tool manufacture and use can become a reality, not simply a dream.

Awareness of the bigger picture is always of value, as in the case of the steel industry’s development of AHSS. Given the volume demand for AHSS automotive steel, and the corresponding decline in low carbon use, it was suggested that this might produce a price differential where low carbon becomes a premier priced commodity?

In the same way, for environmental reasons it would be preferable for dissimilar materials to be easily separated at the end of life. To date, adhesive bonding has not had a good press in this area. However, recent developments in adding metallic particles to the adhesive bond, which can in turn be selectively activated to provide localised heating at the joint may solve this particular problem. The question for fastener manufacturers is, how will this development impact their business?

Table Two: ICFG tool life and tool quality booklets

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

TOOLING, DIES + PUNCHES FEATURE

Always on a roll with KineForm™

KineForm™, a division of Kinefac© Corporation, has been supplying high-quality engineered new and regrind cylindrical thread rolling dies to its global customer base since 1962 – proudly ‘Made in the USA’ using the highest quality tool steels and the latest state of the art CNC grinding and inspection techniques.

KineForm™ dies can be made to fit any type of cylindrical die rolling machine and can be custom engineered for specific applications – ranging from standard thread profiles to high precision ball screw, lead screw, serration and spline profiles. In addition to dies, the company provides technical support services and specialised work support tooling for any type of rolling job.

“Our helical and annular infeed, throughfeed and incremental rolling dies are designed for long-life and high output,” underlines KineForm™. “Hardness and toughness are balanced with appropriate tool steel selection and heat treatment optimisation. Diffusion and mechanical surface treatment options are also available to further enhance tool life longevity.”

KineForm™ also has expedited delivery options and emergency regrind and repair services to help minimise disruption and downtime, with customers also able to take advantage of quantity discount pricing and blanket ordering and stocking programmes.

Throughput rates of 50mm to 125mm per second or more of M12 (½ inch) or M24 (1 inch) thread can be achieved by KineForm™ throughfeed annular, helical fast feed and helical super fast feed cylindrical thread rolling dies. A single set of KineForm™ annular thread rolling dies can also economically roll a variety of thread diameters of the same TPI without having to remove the dies from the thread rolling machine.

In addition to its KineForm™ production capabilities, Kinefac © is able to provide assistance with troubleshooting a thread rolling set-up or designing a special thread form to roll. “Kinefac © die and process development engineers are ready to assist on-site, remote, or in the Kinefac © thread rolling laboratory,” points out the company. “3D process simulation capabilities allow our engineers to analyse forming forces and material flow behaviours to optimise the rolling process. Prototyping and production rolling services are also available.”

To add to this the business can supply high performance work support tooling. “Thread rolling fasteners in materials such as stainless steel and titanium on standard carbide work rest blades can be a challenge. These materials

can adhere to the surface of the blade and result in poorly formed thread crests,” mentions Kinefac ©. “That is why we offer the next generation KineGlide™ work rest blades, which are ultra-low friction and resistant to wear and galling. Engineered with superior quality, these blades have friction coefficient a fifth that of carbide and a far superior surface hardness. This means smoother thread crests can be rolled with improved surface finish and minimal distortion. Depending on the application, KineGlide™ blades can last ten times longer than conventional carbide blades, which results in significantly reduced downtime. We also offer roller blade and bushing type work supports to fit specific application needs.”

www.kinefac.com

KineForm™ cylindrical thread rolling die range capabilities:

Diameters up to 406mm (16 inch).

Widths up to 356mm (14 inch).

Bores up to 152mm (6 inch).

Helix angles from 0° to 90°.

D2, M1, M2, M4, M42 tool steels.

KineForm™ form grinding capabilities:

Standard and custom infeed, throughfeed, incremental (single revolution) forms.

Threads, worms, knurls, splines, serrations, grooves.

UNR, UNJ, NPT, ANSI, Metric, Trapezoidal, ACME, Ball, Rope.

Standard and custom RRO and chamfered edge profiles.

Expanded lead or lead corrected designs.

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

TOOLING, DIES + PUNCHES FEATURE

RLS reintroduces tangential die head chasers

As part of RLS Tooling’s continual growth in the global marketplace it has reintroduced tangential die head chasers into its production, which were originally phased out back in 2015 due to old machinery and a retiring workforce in this area.

However, due to reinvestment last year in CNC milling and grinding machines specific for this area, RLS Tooling Ltd is now able to supply a range of tangential chaser sections that will fit 1.3/64 inch x 3 inch, 1.3/64 inch x 4 inch, 1.1/4 inch x 4 inch and 1.1/2 inch x 5 inch section, with a range of thread forms to suit – typically Metric, BSW, UNC and the popular 11 and 14 BSPT and BSPP pipe threads.

“We also still hold some old stock of the smaller size tangential die head chaser if required,” points out Marcus Smith, managing director at RLS Tooling. “Unfortunately, we do not manufacture the smaller range.”

The tangential die head chasers will complement the already popular flat and cylindrical thread rolling tools manufactured by RLS Tooling, which have been supplied to many thread rolling companies – covering over 20 countries worldwide during the last 35 years.

“Quality is always at the heart of the RLS mantra, which is why our in-house processes are comprehensive, and it will be the same for the new tangential die head chaser production,” concludes Marcus. “This aligns with our continuous recertification of the ISO 9001: 2015 and ISO 14001 accreditations.”

www.rlstooling.co.uk

NOF METAL COATINGS GROUP unveils PFAS-free topcoat range

PFAS, or poly- (or per-) fluoroalkyl substances – widely used in different industrial sectors – are now coming under increasing scrutiny due to their long-lasting presence in the environment. A possible European ban on PFASs, based on REACH, might come into force as early as 2027 for specific industrial segments.

Apart from PTFE, a fluoropolymer currently classified as a ‘polymer of low concern’ by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), NOF METAL COATINGS GROUP does not use any other PFAS in its products. In fact, regardless of potential restrictions imposed by environmental authorities on PTFE, NOF METAL COATINGS GROUP has taken this as an opportunity to develop a new PFAS-free topcoats range with worldwide availability.

PFAS-free PLUS® Series

The ambitious objectives of NOF METAL COATINGS GROUP’s new PFAS-free PLUS® Series is to be able to offer customers a new range of more environmentally friendly products, while guaranteeing the same tribological performance as its current PLUS® range, including its most popular topcoat range:

PLUS® XL 2 Silver: COF 0.06 – 0.09 (ISO 16047)

PLUS® VLh 2 Silver: COF 0.09 – 0.14 (ISO 16047)

PLUS® ML 2 Silver: COF 0.10 – 0.16 (ISO 16047)

“Applied on top of the GEOMET ® waterborne zinc flake basecoat, the PFAS-free alternative to PLUS ®

VLh satisfies the requirements of VW 011 31 and MBN 105 44 and will have the same outstanding properties, such as behaviour in loosening tests (including at high temperature), multi-tightening and high-speed tightening, stick slip avoidance, as well as compatibility with various counterpart materials (eCoat, aluminium and steel),” explains NOF METAL COATINGS GROUP.

Improved aesthetics of coated parts

To offer customers the best products on the market, NOF METAL COATINGS GROUP has also taken this opportunity to enhance the aesthetics of the products in this new range by adding aluminium pigments, thus obtaining a uniform silver colour. This enhancement will improve the visual appearance of assemblies where fasteners are visible by customers.

On the road to a greener future

Meanwhile, in NOF METAL COATINGS GROUP’s R&D laboratories its teams are continuing to work on PFAS-free coatings and GEOBLACK ® systems, with the addition of black topcoats to the PFAS-free PLUS® range to be ready before the end of the year.

Achieve perfect packing with Bonotto

Bonotto Packaging Srl, a specialist in the design and manufacture of machinery for packing fasteners, bolts, mechanical components, and small metal parts, presents the new BP-309 – a compact system that combines weighing and optical counting feed to achieve precise solutions.

The BP-309 is equipped with a bulk hopper and a vibratory linear feeder, which can be used for the fine feed of products – introducing the products one by one. This makes it the ideal solution for the packaging of small metal/solid material parts, such as nails, screws, bolts, nuts, rivets, washers and other hardware products.

The compact system also offers both manual and automatic feeding options, with easy format change, and can be used for multiple products sizes.

Bonotto has a wide range of packing solutions, including horizontal flow-pack machines, weighing machines, counting modules, vertical and tubular

machines, case packers, carton openers and closers, as well as complete packaging lines.

“Thanks to our Founder Antonio Bonotto, a true leader in the field of packaging small parts and mechanical components, the company has been able to achieve great success,” states the business. “Using his knowledge and experience within the field, we have been able to understand customers’ needs and provide tailor-made solutions.”

www.bonottopackaging.com

Feasibility studies and tool development with WAFIOS

WAFIOS Umformtechnik is ideally equipped to support users in machine selection, tool design and construction – whether that’s for machines from its own portfolio or for cold forming machines from other suppliers.

WAFIOS Umformtechnik GmbH has been developing and producing high-quality cold formers for more than 100 years. The forming specialist is also a partner to users in feasibility studies and tool development – with users benefiting from the company’s decades of experience and know-how.

This includes the design of forming processes (stage progress) where WAFIOS’ system can simulate volume, compression, reduction and cup ratios, as well as the approximate pressing force, which is particularly helpful for a general machine selection. The company can also simulate the transportation and feeding of pressed parts in order to determine the ideal gripper dimensions. The tools are also drawn in simplified form for this purpose.

As part of its capabilities, WAFIOS has special 2D material flow simulation software that can be used to precisely analyse the material flow in order to detect any wrinkles or other defects at an early stage. Different stresses, forces, etc, are calculated both on the product and on the tool. This is particularly useful for complex products and should always be carried out in advance.

In addition to the 2D software, the company is able to provide a 3D material flow simulation system, which means even the most unusual contours and geometries can be depicted in three dimensions. A 360 degree simulation can also be used to recognise possible buckling in the material, which can occur if the compression ratio is too high or the tool has not been ideally designed.

“By working with customers, we can support them in machine selection, tool design and construction to fit their requirements,” concludes WAFIOS Umformtechnik. “On request, fastener manufacturers will receive the finished design and are assisted in commissioning the process on-site.”

TESTING ANALYSING TESTING METHODS FOR THE FASTENER SECTOR

When the smallest components must meet the highest requirements

For over 75 years FOERSTER Group has been dedicated to the development and manufacturing of non-destructive testing methods, with a wide variety of methods – such as eddy current or magneto-inductive testing – revealing the quality of metal components and semi-finished products.

FOERSTER’s instruments are used worldwide and in a variety of industries, wherever high material quality is absolutely crucial. “For end-to-end quality control in production processes, we inspect fasteners quickly, reliably and reproducibly for cracks in the material surface, temper and the quality of hardening,” explains FOERSTER. “Since automation plays a major role in the manufacture of fasteners and connectors, we also offer automated test solutions individually tailored to processes in addition to standalone devices. We stand by our customers the whole way; from their first contact with us to the development of customer specific solutions, through to commissioning and service.”

Reliable quality control

Whether fasteners are simple or complex, the material requirements placed on them are constantly growing and the production process must keep up with those increasing demands. Not least because these parts are exposed to, and must withstand, constantly high loads – with failure resulting in exorbitant costs or, even worse, danger to human life.

Quality Control with FOERSTER

That is why FOERSTER’s instruments, in combination with various sensors, are designed to automatically and non-destructively check fasteners for cracks, temper and material composition – directly in the production line. The components are inspected at high-speed and sorted immediately thereafter. That means customers can quickly and reliably assess and document the quality of the components, making adjustments necessary to the production process.

Solutions for every type of component

FOERSTER has created a range of testing instruments for a wide variety of fastener products, including:

Pegs and cotter pins: Securing elements such as pegs and cotter pins are often exposed to extreme loads. To make it possible to monitor material properties, such as hardening depth and microstructure during the manufacturing process, FOERSTER has developed the MAGNATEST D – an automated and non-destructive testing solution with high throughput speed.

Nuts and bolts: FOERSTER has developed special, geometry adapted probes and encircling coils for in-line inspection of temper and microstructure. For additional surface testing, the STATOGRAPH module is used along with specially created rotating probes to check for surface cracks and to guarantee a high-resolution inspection of the material surface.

Fittings: A wide variety of fittings are needed to seamlessly connect tubing sections in piping systems. During forming, production related natural defects can occur, which may later cause component failure. In order to find these cracks early on, FOERSTER offers a testing solution using the STATOGRAPH CM+ along with its FLEXPROBES. These flexible sensors can be optimally adapted to the component geometry of the fittings – with large track widths enabling fast and reliable inspection of the entire surface.

Clamping rings and springs: Springs and clamping rings are typically under constantly high tension. However, they won’t withstand this pressure for long unless the components used have been correctly heat treated. To ensure this, 100% inspections are carried out during production. With its specially adapted coils and probes, the FOERSTER MAGNATEST D enables stable, fully automated testing of the temper and prevents material mix-ups. By using high performance harmonic evaluation, the MAGNATEST D can reduce interference factors during testing such as geometric part tolerances or temperature influences, thus achieving stable results over the long-term.

Hollow bolts: Although hollow bolts have relatively thin walls, they still need to be very strong. This presents manufacturers with enormous challenges during production. To make sure that only perfect components are supplied, 100% quality inspection for cracks and microstructure are required. This is where FOERSTER´s MAGNATEST and STATOGRAPH test systems come into play, in combination with encircling coils and probes. The critical points of the bolts are examined for surface defects and the hardness of the entire component is measured.

FASTENER TESTING

PERFORMANCE + APPLICATION TESTING FEATURE

The history of the pendulum impact test

By Alan Thomas, ZwickRoell Ltd

In the world of fastener testing, some standards stipulate the need to perform impact tests, often at sub zero temperatures, to verify fasteners can maintain good impact resistance even in low temperature service conditions. But what is the history of the pendulum impact test?

The origin of some standard mechanical tests conducted in laboratories today can be traced back to research and discoveries from the 1800s. At that time there was an International Association for Testing Materials that would meet every few years in various locations around the world. By the early 1900s it had over 2,500 members including famous names such as Brinell (hardness test), Martens (martensite), Heyn (grain size), Bauschinger, Le Chatelier and Charpy (impact test).

Georges Charpy was born in France in 1865 and graduated from the École Polytechnique in 1887 with an engineering degree. He later became a metallurgical engineer and subsequently a professor. Charpy became interested in measuring the impact properties of steel because of the significant premature failures exhibited in armaments, steam boilers and steam engines at that time. He presented a technical paper to the association in 1901 on the results of a test for impact resistance of steel using the aid of a pendulum mechanism.

Charpy also established the use of a notch in the test specimen was important in increasing the accuracy and reproducibility of the measurement. His name became linked with the Charpy impact test for notch toughness and many more years were spent investigating the parameters of the test.

The Charpy impact test establishes the relationship of ductile to brittle transition in absorbed energy at a series of test temperatures. Since a variety of metals undergo a transition from ductile behaviour at higher temperatures to brittle behaviour at lower temperatures, the Charpy test is now specified for a range of steel products including ships’ steel hull plate, pressure vessels in nuclear plants, as well as forgings for electric power plant components.

The typical Charpy test is performed using precisely machined specimens – usually measuring 10mm x 10mm x 55mm with a 2mm

deep V-notch in the middle of one of the specimen faces. Specimens are usually tested over a range of sub-ambient and elevated temperatures. Once a specimen reaches the specified test temperature it is quickly located onto a special fixture in the pendulum impact tester with the notch oriented vertically.

Following the release of the test machine pendulum the specimen is struck by the tup attached to the swinging pendulum of appropriate design and mass. The specimen breaks on impact, at its notched cross section, and the upward swing of the pendulum is used to determine the amount of energy absorbed in the process.

It may never be established if Charpy and others knew about the ductile to brittle transition that occurs with temperature in steel, during those early days of impact testing. If available records are correct, all Charpy’s tests were conducted at room temperature or above. Had the ductile to brittle transition been well known in the early 20th century, the steel plates manufactured in 1910 by the steelworks of David Colville & Sons in Scotland, UK, and used in the construction of RMS Titanic, could have been tested at sub zero temperatures. This would have revealed the brittle behaviour that resulted on impact of the hull plate with an enormous iceberg in the icy waters of the North Atlantic Ocean on the night of April 14th 1912.

Lack of understanding of the ductile to brittle transition in steel was again evident in the numerous Liberty ships that literally fractured in half during World War II. The over stressed steel welds became brittle in icy water temperatures and catastrophic crack propagation took place even when the ships were moored.

The Charpy impact test is important as it provides a comparative result for the impact strengths of various materials. When a material is tested across a range of temperatures, the Ductile to Brittle Transition Temperature (DBTT) can be plotted on a graph giving engineers an understanding of the temperature at which a normally ductile material will become brittle.

Impact testing has become firmly established in materials and component testing and the characteristics determined are part of basic material characterisation.

PERFORMANCE + APPLICATION TESTING FEATURE

Test methods for resistance to spontaneous unscrewing in industrial assemblies

Here J LANFRANCO & Cie outlines the three types of tests – Junker, vibration and impact, as well as helicopter – that it is able to perform on all its metal nuts to ensure they are a reliable solution.

The guarantee of the resistance to spontaneous unscrewing of assemblies in industrial environments is based on three distinct test methods. To evaluate this resistance, most current standardised tests focus on tests that induce transverse mechanical stresses, the most severe in the face of spontaneous unscrewing phenomena. The approach to evaluating these tests involves a comparative experimental study integrating three distinct types of stresses and tests, covering various configurations of assemblies and security solutions, which are: Junker test, vibration and impact test, and the helicopter test.

Junker test

A Junker test looks at the transverse loads generated by alternating movements, according to ISO 16130, DIN 65151 or DIN 25201-4 B. The test consists of tightening and tensioning a screwed or bolted assembly, then subjecting it to a succession of alternating transverse movements. The screw and nut or thread are positioned in two different parts of the test fixture, one in a fixed part and the other in a moving part.

Vibration and impact test

Vibration and impact testing uses transverse stresses generated by alternating shocks. The test consists of tightening and tensioning a screwed or bolted assembly, then subjecting it to vibrations – generating a succession of alternating transverse shocks. A test device consisting of a vibratory pot supporting a test fixture shall consist of a part attached to the vibrator having an oblong hole.

The screw and nut and a back-up washer are tightened on a shouldered spacer, this assembly is mounted freely, with play, in the slotted hole of the first part of the assembly. After tightening to achieve the target tension, the joint is subjected to alternating transverse displacements. Tests are performed on a test bench defined according to ISO 7481, ISO 8642, NAS 3350 or NASM 1312-7.

Helicopter test

Helicopter testing involves testing eccentric axial loads by alternating bending. The test consists of tightening and tensioning a bolted joint, then subjecting it to a succession of alternating bending stresses thanks to the eccentricity of the beam’s centre of gravity.

The clamping force is measured and monitored during tightening and testing using an ultrasonic sensor positioned at the end or on the head of the screw. The screw and nut are positioned on a mobile support that allows a martyr beam to be tightened in offset.

After tightening to the target tension, the assembly is subjected to alternating displacements that generate the alternating bending of the martyr beam according to the parameters defined XPE 25-046-2.

Mechanical tests in Junker or impact laboratories are often defective in real conditions and represent a minority of assemblies subject to dynamic stresses. It is crucial to choose the test method closest to the final assembly to avoid failures.

www.lanfranco.fr

The next generation of tactile coating thickness measurement

The new DMP® instrument series for the tactile and non-destructive coating thickness measurement of magnetisable and non-magnetisable base materials from Fischer Instrumentation (GB) Ltd have a robust, modern design, and are equipped with digital probes and new software for extensive evaluations.

The versatile DMP instruments have a modern look and come with numerous new features including an all-aluminium housing with IP64; a soft bumper to protect against falls; scratch resistant and chemical resistant display with Gorilla Glass; the ability to limit monitoring via light, sound and vibration; a replaceable and quickly rechargeable battery; as well as simple data transfers via USB-C and Bluetooth.

The DMP ® devices can be used for almost any measurement requirement in numerous industries. The DUALSCOPE ®, DELTASCOPE ®and ISOSCOPE ® models specialise in their respective fields of application, whether measuring electrically non-conductive layers on non-magnetisable, electrically conductive base materials or measuring non-magnetisable layers on magnetisable base materials.

The DUALSCOPE® itself combines both applications and thus offers high flexibility in one instrument. Also part of the DMP ® instrument series is the FERITSCOPE ® DMP30 ®, for precise measurement of ferrite content, and the SR-SCOPE ® DMP30 ®, for reliable measurement of copper thickness on printed circuit boards.

All DMP ® instruments are available with Fischer’s new digital probes, which offer outstanding accuracy and the highest repeatability, as well as smart and future-proof connectivity via USB-C interface. Additionally, with the help of the F-adapter, users can also continue to use the full performance of analogue probes and benefit from the largest probe portfolio on the market.

NO MATTER WHAT SIZE − 100% RELIABILITY MATTERS

Only continuous monitoring and testing provide a 100% guarantee that bolted joints are reliable and safe. Our test and analysis systems analyze the functional characteristics of bolted joints (such as the coefficient of friction, preloading force or torque) as well as bolting tools. By enabling the targeted monitoring of tolerance limits, they ensure that deviations in fastening processes are detected at an early stage.

www.kistler.com/reliability

MANAGEMENT + SYSTEMS

SYSTEM DEVELOPMENTS AFFECTING THE FASTENER SECTOR

INVENTORY + WAREHOUSE MANAGEMENT FEATURE

AI in warehouse management

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the warehouse is common nowadays, but its full scale application is only just starting to take off. Here, global warehouse automation specialist, Mecalux, discusses how integrating technologies such as automation and AI in logistics operations can bring multiple advantages to warehouse management.

An automated warehouse, also known as a smart warehouse, combines robotic and automated elements to replace the most labour intensive tasks. The warehouse incorporates machines such as stacker cranes or motorised shuttles to reduce repetitive tasks, increase agility and minimise physical strain on operators.

Warehouse automation also includes machines that systematise logistics operations by integrating AI-related enhancements such as picking robots. Thanks to computer vision, these devices recognise the shapes of objects they’ve never seen before and arrange them as efficiently as possible to fulfil orders. Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) can also move loads between different points of a facility, ‘making decisions’ without the need for predefined routes. These capabilities are enabled by AI and machine learning.

AI can also make demand forecasting more accurate by avoiding stockouts, and can also be an ally for preparing other supply chain processes. Other departments that manage behind the scenes activities for companies such as IT tasks, human resources and accounting, can also benefit from AI. Cognitive automation, for instance, can be implemented in billing processes.

Although it requires an initial outlay, employing AI in logistics comes with several benefits. These include 24/7 availability – AI driven systems need no rest, so they can work uninterrupted; higher productivity – machines such as picking robots cooperate with humans to boost their work in automated warehouses and if necessary they can also operate independently; attention to detail – AI’s accuracy in performing tasks results in fewer errors; customer satisfaction – chatbots respond faster to consumers’ questions and enable tracking of shipments and deliveries, whilst also enhancing the buying experience by personalising messages and recommendations; quicker data analysis –AI is capable of processing large amounts of information in a short time and can draw conclusions and make suggestions for optimisation; and predictive maintenance – technology makes it possible to detect potential problems before they cause failures, enabling companies to carry out preventive maintenance to ensure business continuity.

Another field where AI is extremely useful is route management. When employing AI in this process, companies are able to take into account factors such as total capacity, weather forecasts, traffic information and vehicle geolocation, enabling them to reduce travel costs and driving hours while serving customers as quickly as possible.

The future of AI in warehouse management

Experts anticipate that we’re on the brink of a new era for logistics. Supply chains will be transformed as AI technologies become more effective. Eventually, repetitive and physically demanding tasks will be relegated to robots. Then, operators will be able to focus on work that adds greater value. AI will also shorten customer service response times and improve the visibility of operations, increasing overall satisfaction.

Before integrating AI in warehouse management, it’s advisable to analyse your company’s capabilities and needs to formulate a plan. First, establish a strategy. Think about what you hope to achieve and how you’ll adapt AI to your current processes. Next, find the right type of AI. Several machines and systems already incorporate AI processes and the key is to choose the solution most closely aligned with business requirements. It should provide the greatest benefit with the smallest investment in time and resources.

Third, study how to integrate AI. It’s best to train all employees on managing these technologies. They can be implemented through a pilot project or through small tasks that gradually become more significant. Finally, measure improvements. It’s critical to assess performance to obtain the maximum possible throughput.

If you’re looking to speed up processes, whether automated or manual, a Warehouse Management System (WMS) is a must. This software will help you streamline operations and fine tune processes such as order fulfilment and shipping. Mecalux has developed Easy WMS to coordinate teams, inventory and the workforce from a single digital tool.

Modular and mobile Kanban with maximum protection

Würth Industrie Service GmbH & Co KG and Dringenberg GmbH Betriebseinrichtungen have added two further variants to the Kanban rack CPS®KANBAN flex with CPS®KANBAN flex mobil, a mobile Kanban rack on castors, and the CPS®KANBAN flex protect, a rack that can be closed with front-mounted roller shutters and front-mounted doors.

Instead of usual shelves, the CPS ® KANBAN flex stands out because it can either be used on modular shelves with rails, as well as drawers, or even shelves with dividers for bulky and long goods. Each base can be used individually depending on customer requirements, making it possible to customise the modules afterwards as well.

Thanks to the innovative rail technology, the fire load is reduced maximally compared to conventional shelves. Furthermore, the rails in combination with crossbars, as well as a stable upright profile, prevent the individual bins from slipping unintentionally, which ensures maximum organisation on the racks. The fact that the rails are compatible regardless of the bin size of the patented Würth small load carrier W-KLT ®2.0 also points to absolute flexibility.

The innovative CPS® KANBAN flex mobil is first and foremost a certified Kanban rack in accordance with DGUV regulations, but is mobile due to its plastic castors and has a maximum load capacity of up to 1,000kg. Additional forklift pockets provide even more mobility along the production line. The extremely strong racks can also be

transported over long distances without any complications. If the rack is moved manually by an employee in production, a specially fitted foot protection provides additional safety.

A wide range of racks variants – with a standard height of 1,830mm, a depth of 800mm and rack widths of 1,000mm or 1,300mm – are available for storing the bins. Thanks to perforated side and rear panels, it is also possible to attach additional accessories.

With CPS®KANBAN flex protect, industrial customers can now benefit from a modular Kanban rack that provides greater protection for stored goods, due to the availability of the option to close it. In particular, fragile parts such as hydraulic fittings or seals can be optimally protected against dirt. As an extension package of the CPS®KANBAN flex, the two safety mechanisms can be fitted quickly and easily as add-on elements subsequently, depending on the customers’ requirements. The rack has a standard height of 2,000mm, a width of 1,300mm and two rack depths of 600mm and 800mm. Different accessories can also be attached here as required.

www.wuerth-industrie.com

INVENTORY + WAREHOUSE MANAGEMENT FEATURE

Autonomous drone scanning technology for the warehouse

Anyline GmbH, a global specialist in mobile data capture and data insights, has introduced a new autonomous drone inventory management software that can scan an entire warehouse efficiently, in collaboration with Mondi – a packaging and paper company.

Seeking to improve its inventory management process across multiple, large warehouse locations, Mondi tested several technology options including handheld RFID and camera scanners before a breakthrough was achieved with Anyline’s mobile data capture technology within DJI Mini 3 Pro drones.

Prior to using barcode scanning drones, multiple workers used forklifts to manually lift two people at a time to scan inventory across large warehouses, sometimes only once per year. This process involves working at heights and, due to the need for space and extra safety measures, had to be done with overtime outside of warehouse operating hours. Now, a single drone operator can scan all the inventory aisle-by-aisle in a warehouse during operating hours. The new modern process is safer, very accurate and alleviates a mandatory after hours full warehouse count all at once.

“Both Anyline and Mondi are passionate about innovation. We are proud to be a part of this project, which is redefining what is technologically possible in inventory management but can also be applied across other industries. We look forward to continuing to work with Mondi and other organisations redefining expectations and inspiring others to innovate and transform the way they work,” says Lukas Kinigadner, CEO and co-founder at Anyline.

Anyline has established itself as a global specialist in mobile data capture and data insights. Using the latest, most innovative Artificial Intelligence and machine learning approaches, Anyline gives businesses the power to read, measure and interpret visual information with any mobile device.

The warehouse of the future

ferag.doWarehouse is an innovative software from Ferag AG, which is aiming to redefine the standards for warehouse management – offering an uncomplicated and customised solution for companies of any size and complexity.

Developed to meet the challenges of today’s warehouse environments, ferag.doWarehouse offers a customer oriented combination of flexibility, efficiency and performance. The solution is a WMS/WES with hardware abstraction and optimisation for highly flexible and simple integration into the SOC/PLC level. It standardises the interfaces to optimise the incoming and outgoing processes in a warehouse and enables the management of information from PLCs – including robots, WMS (Warehouse Management Systems), WCS (Warehouse Control Systems) and WES (Warehouse Execution Systems) – in a single solution. In simple terms, ferag.doWarehouse manages the warehouse and optimally aligns warehouse management with existing and future warehouse automation.

The software takes on three levels of functionality to suit different requirements and levels of automation – simple manual warehouses, complex automated warehouses and critical warehouse subsystems.

The focus for simple manual warehouses is easy entry into digitalised warehouse management – with a seamless transition from Microsoft Excel-based operations to a lightweight WMS. With an outstanding price performance ratio, easy implementation, and autonomously adaptable workflows, ferag.doWarehouse also offers excellent support for the

first steps towards warehouse digitisation. The lean software suits Excel-based operations that want to take the next step towards efficiency and quality and paves the way for future growth. ferag.doWarehouse offers scalability in any direction and can gradually evolve into a more comprehensive automation system at any time.

Its next level of functionality is aimed at warehouse operators who require the management of one or more important manual or automated processes. The focus is on the unification of the WES/WCS level and the possible integration of all existing subsystems. ferag.doWarehouse offers a ‘single source of truth’ and an easily configurable host interface for customisation. The modular architecture allows customisation to different systems, regardless of hardware, for maximum flexibility and efficiency.

Finally, the system also focuses on the optimisation of critical warehouse areas such as sorting, buffer, and picking areas, and provides an overview of all processes. With ferag.doWarehouse, any hardware can be connected and managed from a central dashboard. Due to its high modularity and independence from specific hardware, the solution enables the targeted and individual optimisation of all subsystems and provides analytics and KPIs to ensure maximum transparency and efficiency.

Finding additional hours to increase productivity

SPS Technologies, a specialist fastener, assembly and precision component manufacturer for the aerospace sector, has increased productivity by 23%, equating to 273 additional productive hours a week across fifteen machines, after utilising smart technology from FourJaw Manufacturing Analytics.

Employing 335 people at its site in Leicester, UK, SPS Technologies operates as part of PCC Fasteners, a manufacturer of critical fastening systems for aerospace and defence applications, including power generation, wind turbines, marine and performance motorsport.

With increasing inflationary cost pressures, skills shortages and longer lead times for machinery and equipment, the company challenged itself to increase the overall productivity of its manufacturing operations. The business was looking for an overall uplift in output and to achieve this it needed to engage in a number of strategic projects, including machine utilisation.

To do this, SPS turned to the manufacturing analytics platform, FourJaw. “Increasing productivity is a key lever to help offset inflationary increases and keep pace with demand. Finding a solution that could help us increase throughput before looking to purchase new equipment, which itself is a time-consuming and costly exercise, to maximise the output of our current machines was vital,” comments Richard Baker, continuous improvement manager at SPS Technologies. “To increase productivity, we needed to understand how productive machines were and what opportunity for improvement was available. To achieve this, we required accurate and timely data from our equipment. It

soon became apparent that we would require the assistance of a technology platform to work with our machines, which would be easy to roll out across the factory floor to deliver a ‘near instant’ measure of efficiency.”

SPS Technologies chose an IoT hardware and Cloud-based machine monitoring solution from FourJaw Manufacturing Analytics, starting with a trial of ten machines over six months. Thanks to its success, SPS has recently rolled FourJaw out further, bringing the total number of machines being monitored to 50.

The impact of the technology has been significant, it has removed inefficiencies in procedures; improved communication between the machine operators and the inspection lab; reduced downtime awaiting results of critical inspection processes; increased shift capacity by planning and scheduling work more efficiently; as well as improved cross department cooperation, which ensures problems are identified immediately and support is given to keep machines operational.

“All of these activities have led to an increase in machine productivity of 23%, which equates to 273 additional productive hours per week on the machines that have the platform running, which we see as a significant result for the business operationally and commercially,” concludes Richard.

APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

FASTENING SOLUTIONS FOR ALL INDUSTRIES

Bespoke solutions from KAMAX

A KXpanded bolt can be made very long and thin

At KAMAX we aim to be a reliable partner that customers can rely on in the long-term, which has proved to be a valuable asset in the current highly volatile and uncertain market environments.”

“At KAMAX we do not produce ordinary bolts, instead we deliver solutions custom-made to individual applications,” states Mario. “There are hardly any areas of the vehicle for which we do not offer products – with particular expertise that relates to the chassis/suspension and engine. Regardless of the vehicle type and drive system, we can meet all our customers’ requirements – especially in demanding applications, which are predestined for our engineering expertise. We are able to do this thanks to a very experienced application engineering team that analyses closely the applications and drawings of customers, before optimising them for functionality and efficient manufacturability.”

Mario adds: “By working with our customers we not only make the fasteners but entire applications better and more efficient. We can do this thanks to the engineering, laboratory, testing and development expertise we have built up in this area over the last few decades, which sets us apart from competitors when it comes to what we can offer customers.”

Developing EV technology

KAMAX has also been working with customers to develop different types of

Single source solution

COST-EFFICIENT COLD-FORMING & PRECISION MACHINING GLOBAL DELIVERY

DESIGN, PROTOTYPING & LAB SERVICES

ASSEMBLY EXPERTISE

CONSULTING BY OUR EXPERTS

Are you looking for a supplier who is an expert in every field?

Make it easy for yourself, get everything from just one source: us

Our experts analyze your application down to the last detail. We challenge your technical drawing with our decades of experience. We work with you to develop complex geometries and prototypes and conduct laboratory trials and material tests.

When your product is perfectly designed, we produce a cost-efficient tailor-made part: we form it, we machine it, heat-treat it, coat it, overmold it, assemble it, and package it. We then deliver it to you quickly, safely, and locally – anywhere in the world.

And if you want to get more out of it, our application engineers will find a way –without you ever having to deal with more than one source.

www.kamax.com

APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

fastenings when it comes to Electric Vehicles (EVs) – with this affecting not only the design of the parts but also the properties (i.e. the electric conductivity). “We started developing such solutions with the customers many years ago, to a point where EV products have become a new business area for us and represent a significant part of our turnover,” mentions Mario. “Some of the products we have produced include an insulating head by plastic over-moulding, which required us to introduce plastic moulding equipment and expertise within the group. We have also introduced a concept called KXpanded where we can make very long and thin bolts (e.g M6 x 600mm) with maximum straightness.”

Another product range that has a relevance to the EV sector is KAMAX’s KXtreme fasteners, which are ultra highstrength parts (up to strength Class 14.9U or 17.8U, depending on the environment/application) that can hold significantly more load than conventional screws.

“Thanks to the design of the KXtreme fasteners the total number of screws within an application and the size of the screws can be reduced. This gives the development engineer more design freedom and means additional load can be transferred,” points out Mario. “The KXtreme technology is not tied to any specific application; we can use it everywhere. However, with electrified vehicles there is significantly increased vehicle weights, which means increased load to the bolted joint – especially regarding vehicle crashes or where the high torques of the electric motor are impacting the joints. Here, we see the significant benefits of using ultra high-strength KXtreme bolts, with multiple applications in battery electric vehicles already proving this.”

Meeting the innovation challenge

KAMAX’s ability to introduce innovative solutions is thanks to its research and development capabilities, which have been a crucial part of the company’s success since the very beginning. “Innovation is essential for our business, we launch around 300 new products every year and in addition to our global and regional development teams, we have our own Innovation Hub to drive new ideas forward,” states Mario. “With the agile approach of our Innovation Hub, we can develop innovative solutions for challenging applications, which we find primarily in the battery environment of electric vehicles. Still, fuel cell electric vehicles are also a segment in which we have identified challenges that we are now working on.”

In recent years, KAMAX has also driven forward its vertical integration. “With majority shareholdings in the Robert Schröder Group and Galol, we have significantly expanded our expertise in cold formed and precision machined parts and coatings,” underlines Mario. “On the one hand, the aim was to diversify our product portfolio further and offer even more complex solutions. At the same time, we must have the critical steps in the value and supply chain under our control. Of course, this also has advantages for the customer, as they get complex products requiring different skills from a single source.”

KAMAX’s ability to introduce innovative solutions is thanks to its research and development capabilities, which have been a crucial part of the company’s success since the very beginning.”

KAMAX has also expanded its production capabilities, with three new operations around the globe, including Leon (Mexico), Bardejov (Slovakia) and a second plant in Changzhou (China). “Thanks to a combination of cold forming and precision machining, and the resulting production of complex formed parts and assemblies, we believe there is further potential to differentiate ourselves from competitors in the future. Our approach combines a high-level of application expertise with innovation, reliability and cost efficiency. If we continue to succeed in this, we will have opportunities for growth in all markets,” concludes Mario.

www.kamax.com

A KXtreme bolt

Born from the fusion of riveted insert and selfblocking nut, DEFORM-NUT® SELF-LOCKING is the new anti-loosening deforming rivet: the ideal solution for fixing parts subject to risk of loosening and strong vibrations. DEFORM-NUT® SELFLOCKING can be easily installed on boxes, pipes, sheet metal, profiles and on all those supports that do not allow the insertion of nuts inside them.

UNITY IS STRENGTH

 PATENTED INSERT

 Guaranteed anti-loosening without the use of additional components (threadlockers, elastic washers)

 Available in zinc-plated steel and stainless steel

 Available in various shapes and dimensions

Nylon ring

Build lighter, build stronger

With governments around the world driving the need for CO 2 reduction for many years, culminating in a global shift towards commercial electrification, EJOT UK offers an extensive product offering bringing strength and lightweight benefits to the electric vehicle market.

EJ OT’s dominant market for industrial engineering threadforming screws is historically automotive, largely driven by its product portfolio based on a foundation of parts rationalisation; reducing the number of fastening products in assemblies; allied with higher joint strength performance. In Germany, the company’s development teams have also been working with vehicle manufacturers and academic institutions as part of the ongoing process towards electrification.

The obvious mechanical difference between combustion driven vehicles and Electric Vehicles (EVs) is that the latter has no conventional powertrain, which is instead replaced with a motor and electric control unit (ECU).

“We are seeing a shift in product deployment across the range. For example, the escalation in the need for printed microcircuit boards, usually set into a light aluminium casting, is the domain of EJOT’s micro screw range. These threadforming screws provide the performance at a miniaturised level that designers would normally expect to achieve with much larger screws, as an alternative to soldering, gluing, clipping or welding,” comments Steve Wynn, UK sales manager for industrial fastening solutions, EJOT.

Meanwhile, EJOT’s ALtracs® Plus threadforming screws offer great potential for EV applications as they act as heat sinks, removing heat that is dispersing throughout the system, whilst providing a strong and vibration resistant join.

One vehicle manufacturer uses the ALtracs® Plus threadforming screws to secure the PCB onto a heat sink so the screw assists with the heat transfer, while another major German manufacturer uses it for the connector housing for DC adaptors, as well as the HV/LV filter in the vehicle’s power electronics and WR and PWRDC/DC units. ALtracs® Plus is also used alongside the EJOT Delta PT ® screw for fastening the battery back and WR DC/DC unit by another automotive manufacturer.

Engineering for the EV sector is largely dominated by the need to build lighter and stronger parts, and in turn this has led to the advancement

of many new engineering materials. Carbon fibre is one such material, sought after for its light weight, versatility and high strength.

“It was initially thought that new materials required for EV construction would make adhesive solutions a more attractive, dominant approach to fastening and they would gain the market share,” explains Steve. “However, while this has partially become true, mechanical fastenings are still a strongly preferred option, in part due to the hurdles of curing times and fumes associated with using adhesives.”

The key challenge continues to be designing mechanical joining systems for thinner and more lightweight materials, particularly when parts that are lightweight also become more flexible in many cases.

EJOT’s product range has responded accordingly with the development of products such as the EVO PT ® self-tapping threadforming screw. The latest generation of the PT, which revolutionised fastening into thermoplastics back in the 1970s, the EVO PT ® has the benefit of an optimised locating point and depth independent installation torque, which enables a uniform tightening torque in production at different screw lengths.

Another technology with great EV potential that is already used by the automotive sector for conventional vehicles is EJOWELD® – a friction weld system that was developed in conjunction with a premium German vehicle manufacturer who sought to take weight out of traditional vehicle design. The solution was to deploy high strength boron steel as the core structure for ‘body in white’ structures, a move that offered extreme strength benefits in a much thinner material than those traditionally used. As such, the solution demanded a new approach to joining secondary allots to the main vehicle body, culminating in the development of EJOWELD®

Looking to the future, with more EVs becoming commonplace on roads, the need to charge with speed, economically, and in multiple locations, is an area the company is keen to be involved with. EJOT’s EVO PT ® screws are already being deployed in this area, with up to 50 fastening elements used in home wall charging stations.

Worldwide leading manufacturer of plastic standard elements Discover the variety. Straight away.

dk

TINY PARTS. HUGE IMPACT. k

BENEFIT FROM THE VERSATILITY OF PLASTIC STANDARD ELEMENTS.

Plastic injection moulded technical standard parts of the highest quality, made in Germany: that‘s PlacoTec®!

» DIN standard: screws // nuts // washers // wing knobs // knurling knobs

» Material: PA // PA GF // PP // PE // PVDF // PEEK // ABS

» Sizes: M2 to M24

» Colors: Natural and RAL codes

» Other materials, colors and dimensions upon request

» Large stock for immediate availability

» Customized retail packaging according to your specifications

APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

Facing the challenges of the automotive industry

Growermetal has undergone continuous evolution in order to set itself as a leading supplier of washers and parts for the automotive sector – with its certified productive model, international sales network, and rooted know-how in fastening technologies, enabling it to embrace mobility transformation.

The automotive industry is a rapidly evolving field characterised by dynamic trends and the necessity for stable, reliable supply services. Growermetal has embraced these challenges with an innovative approach, offering comprehensive in-house services, cutting edge research and development, as well as a wide range of washer solutions tailored specifically for the automotive sector.

Since its foundation in 1950, Growermetal has built a strong reputation in the fastener industry by continually enhancing its production capabilities to ensure superior safety and high performance. Over the years, the automotive industry has become a focal point for Growermetal, prompting the company to meet stringent requirements and adapt to new market demands.

For instance, in 2011 Growermetal obtained the IATF 16949 certification, which is specifically for the automotive industry and provides quality management system process requirements. In particular, the standard focuses on customer requirements, defect prevention, improvement and a reduction of variation and waste in the supply chain.

Today, Growermetal’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in its ability to respond to the evolving needs of the automotive sector. This dedication has allowed the company to establish itself as a trusted supplier of high-quality fastening solutions, earning the confidence of automotive manufacturers worldwide.

Exploring the evolution of mobility

For the fastener industry, the transformation undergone by the mobility and automotive sectors has brought significant new trends. The transition towards electric vehicles, technology 4.0, and the consequent introduction of more demanding and strict regulations, present unique challenges and opportunities for the fastener sector.

As a consequence, the market of fastening systems is undergoing profound changes too, being called to improve locking performance and safety; introducing lightweight materials with no discount on resistance and durability; as well as designing parts with the integration of smart technologies.

Growermetal’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in its ability to respond to the evolving needs of the automotive sector.”

Growermetal has proactively addressed these needs by leveraging its efficiency and technical expertise to develop products that meet the highest standards of quality and reliability.

The centrality of innovation in the company’s strategy is clear from different points of view. On the one hand, Growermetal is working on the integration of smart technologies inside washers – leading to the development of its first smart sensorised washer Grower Detecto® – and on the creation of products suitable to electric vehicles, such as the metal parts with glued EPDM inserts that can be used as insulation in batteries.

On the other hand, the company is actively investing in new structures for research and development. As a result, Growermetal will soon inaugurate a new building in the area next to its main headquarters, with construction having started in 2023. The GIC –Growermetal Innovation Center will include new areas for sharing ideas and projects, laboratories and classrooms for training, as well as helping support the future development of innovation for automotive, transportation technologies and many other sectors.

Certified quality and comprehensive in-house services

Growermetal’s production process is highly centralised, encompassing various departments that work in unison to maintain a seamless workflow. The headquarters in Calco, Italy, covering a total area of 45,000m 2 (with 23,500m 2 of covered space), houses several key departments, including:

YOUR PARTNER IN FASTENING SOLUTIONS

GROWERMETAL’S NETWORK PROVIDES SOLIDITY TO YOUR BUSINESS WORLDWIDE.

Whenever you need a fastening solution for your challenges, we provide a complete range of standard washers and customized parts, with over 7,000 geometries and designs. From aerospace to automotive, from infrastructures, wind and solar energy to Oil and Gas, we meet the needs of every sector, combining a made-in-Italy production with an agile sales network.

Discover our services and products and spread safety in your applications.

APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

Tool shop: Growermetal offers mould and tooling design, manufacturing, and maintenance, for producing high-quality components. The tool shop is equipped with advanced machinery and skilled technicians, who ensure that every tool meets stringent quality standards. This capability allows the company to produce custom solutions with high precision, offering a flexible service and adapting it to customers’ requirements.

Heat treatment: Essential for achieving the desired mechanical properties in fasteners, the heat treatment department utilises advanced furnaces and precise temperature control to ensure that fasteners achieve the required hardness and strength characteristics.

Mechanical zinc plating: Providing exceptional action against corrosion, Growermetal’s mechanical zinc plating is a highly resistant coating certified to the FCA PS.50042 automotive standard. Thanks to the use of original MacDermid® chemicals, and constant monitoring, the company ensures a uniform and durable coating that meets the stringent requirements of automotive manufacturers, with the possibility of supplying the coating on the company’s products, as well as on the products of third parties.

Zinc flake coating: With a wide range of zinc flake coatings, Growermetal provides quality and aesthetics to the entire production, adding extra protection against corrosion to its washers and parts. During the process no hydrogen is produced, eliminating the risk of embrittlement of the pieces and the exclusive use of original Dörken chemicals completes the offer with different base and topcoats.

Besides these services, Growermetal’s production processes also covers blanking, coining, steel wire rolling, surface cleaning and finishing, as well as sorting and final quality control. Each department communicates directly with the others, ensuring a well defined production flow with minimal interruptions.

Together with its complete set of services, another one of Growermetal’s strengths lies in its extensive range of fastening solutions for the mobility sector, with the possibility of customisation according to customer’s specific measurements. Available in several different materials and dimensions, the washer range for the automotive industry includes:

Flat captive washers: These parts are very common in automotive applications, as they suit wider uses. Flat captive washers prevent surface damage and embedment from nuts and bolts, as well as providing a consistent surface for more predictable joints.

Ribbed flat washers: Ideal for use with soft-bearing surfaces

Another one of Growermetal’s strengths lies in its extensive range of fastening solutions for the mobility sector…”

such as aluminium and plastic, these washers feature radial ribs and serrations to prevent damage during tightening. Ribbed flat washers are particularly useful in applications where a secure grip is required, such as car body, engine, gearbox and other components.

Conical elastic washers: Designed to prevent loosening in assemblies and accommodate static loads, these washers combine elastic compensation with the elimination of play. They are suitable for applications with low vibration resistance and parts subject to temperature variations.

Eccentric washers: Commonly used in car and van suspension systems, these washers are essential for ensuring secure connections. The hexagonal hole washer is mounted and blocked on the underhead of the screw, while the counter washer is mounted in the two grooves of the bolt’s threaded part by the OEM during the assembling process of the car.

Crown lock washers for shafts: These economical and easy to use retainers are used in applications where it is necessary to position and securely retain a bolt or screw until a nut is applied to complete the assembly. Once the nut is applied and tightened, these washers provide a secure hold, resisting loosening and back-off rotation.

Corrugated elastic washers: This category includes two different types of products, according to the application and the material. Corrugated elastic washers are suitable for soft materials such as copper, aluminium, and plastic, while corrugated elastic damping washers compensate for the axial play of a component. In general, these washers reduce disassembly risk and compensate for misalignment. Cup washers and special geometries: Growermetal is also able to manufacture custom engineered washers that meet specific customer requirements, offering the best locking system for the application.

High thickness and precision flat washers: These are special products engineered and manufactured by Growermetal according

SCHNORR® is an international leader in engineering and producing safet y washers and disc springs for automotive, aerospace and mechanical applications

Original SCHNORR® safet y washers:

• Highly vibration-resistant

• Twofold effect from one component

• E x tensive range

Original SCHNORR® disc springs:

• Various applications

• Best price -per formance ratio

• Customized solutions

Please contac t us Together we will find your tailor-made solution.

Schnorr GmbH

Stuttgar ter Str. 37

71069 Sindelfingen, Germany

Phone: +49 (0) 7031 302-0

Fax: +49 (0) 7031 382600

mail@schnorr.de www.schnorr.de

APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

to customers’ technical specifications and drawing. These washers are mainly used in the automotive industry, replacing turned parts.

Metal parts with glued EPDM inserts: As the washer and the EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) part are co-stamped, the elastomer adds a superior resistance to high temperatures, steam, brake fluid and other weather conditions. Thanks to the fact that EPDM is an electrical insulator, these washers can be used in automotive applications where there is exposure to electrical currents or whenever it is necessary to avoid electrical conductivity.

“The company’s ability to control every aspect of the production process is a key factor in its success, enabling it to respond quickly to customer needs and market changes, whilst maintaining high efficiency and consistent quality across its product range,” underlines Paolo Cattaneo, CEO at Growermetal SpA.

Inventory and warehouse management

To create trusted relationships with customers, Growermetal also looks to provide logistical efficiency. That is why when OEM customers ask for timely and comprehensive solutions on a large scale, the company promotes a ‘Just in Time’ approach with an integrated supply service. Starting with its stock of raw materials and finished products, and ending with a distribution network of two important sales branches in North America (Growermetal USA) and Brazil (Growermetal do Mercosul), the company is able to serve automotive manufacturers all over the world.

In particular, Growermetal’s headquarters counts on a fully automatic warehouse with 17 levels of storage and 11,000 storage locations, supported by a management software (WMS – Warehouse Management System) exclusively tailored to meet the company’s requirements.

The warehouse is also equipped with stacker cranes and laser guided vehicles, ensuring that products are stored and handled with maximum accuracy and speed, reducing lead times and improving overall efficiency.

Finally, the new automatic packaging machine enhances this process, offering customisable packaging solutions to meet diverse customer needs. The machine is capable of handling various packaging formats, allowing Growermetal to provide tailored solutions that align with the specific requirements of each customer.

Growermetal participating at IZB 2024

Growermetal’s focus on automotive extends to the participation in important international events, such as the International Suppliers Fair

This prestigious event is a key platform for the automotive supply chain, attracting suppliers and professionals from around the

The 2022 edition saw 940 exhibitors from 37 nations and 43,000 world premieres, and the twelfth edition is expected to maintain this trend.

“Covering the entire value chain, IZB will be the occasion to discover Growermetal’s latest innovations and connect with key industry players,” reports Paolo. “Through our participation in events like IZB 2024, and our dedication to R&D, we aim to forge new partnerships and strengthen existing relationships – spreading our commitment to driving innovation and excellence in the automotive industry. With a strong legacy of expertise and a forward thinking approach, we are ready to seize future challenges and opportunities.”

www.growermetal.com

(IZB) 2024, held from 22 nd to 24th October 2024 in Wolfsburg, Germany, with Growermetal’s team present on stand 6106 in hall 6.

globe.

Specialised solution for EV busbars

Here John O’Brien, global technologist at PennEngineering®, talks about the changing requirements of the EV sector and how the newly launched ECCB™ PEM eConnect® Contact Bushing is able to provide superior electrical connections, especially for busbars in electric vehicles.

At PennEngineering® we look to be ahead of the industry when it comes to trends and designs, so we can make sure we have a relevant product or technology for when companies, in different markets, are looking for solutions. A fundamental part of these new solutions is that they offer an increased performance perspective or a cost saving –whether from the component level or the assembly.

My role as a technologist is that I work with every company within the PennEngineering PEM ®, Haeger®, Sherex® and PROFIL® focus on the electrical aspect of engineering. A number of years ago we identified as a business that there was going to be a requirement for electrical solutions and that is why we have built a knowledge base and experience within that area, so we can leverage this topic and create new products. This is exactly what we have done with our eConnect® portfolio, especially the ECCB™ PEM eConnect Contact Bushing, which provides a unique solution for busbar applications within electric vehicles.

When the initial EVs were launched a lot of the high current pathways in the vehicles were done using heavy-duty cables, as they provided great flexibility when fitting the system, but had very limited actual performance. As EVs developed so did the technology and the requirements for a higher current. This led to EV companies looking at the potential of busbars as an alternative, which offered the same performance but were significantly less expensive.

As EVs developed so did the technology and the requirements for a higher current.”

The initial busbars were copper and due to their design would require a significant amount of copper to make them suitable for the EV sector, which would make the vehicles too heavy and expensive. Companies therefore decided to run the busbars warmer, which helped halve the amount of copper needed. Further developments happened to the point where certain busbars could run at up to 10A/mm 2, but this led to them getting very hot. However, due to EV batteries also developing there was already a need for a cooling system, which meant it could be used for the busbars, enabling them to run hot whilst being kept slim –reducing costs and weight.

This is where the trend was for a while, but then around 2022 the price of copper reached a point where EV companies started to look at other materials that could be used, such as aluminium, which offered the same performance as copper. Even though twice as much material was required, creating a slight space constraint, the aluminium was still half of the weight of the copper that would be required. This meant it was a win-win scenario, as the copper could be directly replaced with aluminium and it was still possible to make a weight saving, as well as a cost saving.

The only issue with aluminium is it’s very corrosion resistant, as it forms an aluminium oxide layer on the surface extremely quickly – almost instantly. This is bad because it insulates, which is not good for busbars as you want to be able to make contact with the surface. To

get around this issue, manufacturers can give the aluminium material a polish with a rough surface, before quickly combining the surfaces, but this is not the most effective. Another option is to electroplate them, with either tin, silver or nickel, but the issue with this is it can prove difficult, it is expensive, and depending on the chemistry used, it is not particularly environmentally friendly.

That is why we introduced the ECCB™ PEM eConnect® Contact Bushing, which can be used to make reliable electrical connections between aluminium busbars, as well as copper, plus PCBs or cable terminals. The ECCB™ PEM eConnect ® Contact Bushing uses a high surface area knurl design to pierce the corrosion layer on busbars –creating a consistent electrical current connection without needing to plate the busbar itself. Designed for installation into straight punched holes, without additional surface preparation, the ECCB™ PEM eConnect® Contact Bushing also breaks aluminium and copper oxide layers on busbars for low resistance connections and can be used in panels with sheet hardness HRB 50 / HB 82 or less.

For installation, PennEngineering® can also supply PEM eConnect® current carrying pins, which provide superior electrical connections in applications that demand superior performance from internal components. Available in self-clinching and broaching mounting styles, these installation systems can be used with electric vehicles, including EV charging systems, EV powertrain, EV power distribution, as well as industrial switchgear.

The ECCB™ PEM eConnect® Contact Bushing is a new solution that will provide significant benefits for EV companies looking to optimise the vehicles. It has already been used for some applications and we have data available, including thermal cycling testing and current carrying cycling testing, to show that the product is able to meet the very highest requirements.

www.pemnet.com

APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY

Airbag clipping solutions improve vehicle safety

When it comes to the safety of the vehicles we drive, it’s important to recognise that improvements can come from even the smallest components of a vehicle. Here, Davide Meola, product development project manager at ARaymond Germany, outlines one such example – airbag fastener clips, which continue to evolve as suppliers seek innovative approaches that will increase end user safety while also improve the manufacturing process.

While easy to take for granted, these clips, which are pre-mounted into the fabric layers of an airbag before being assembled onto a car body, are an essential element of safety, and a goal of continuous improvement that must be taken seriously by suppliers. One specific area of vehicle assembly where ARaymond sees new innovations continue to arrive is in the fasteners used to secure side curtain airbags, a critical safety component in the event of an accident.

The latest generation of airbag clip solutions stand out by featuring a more ergonomic assembly surface that will result in a quicker, smoother assembly process. With OEMS and Tier 1 suppliers looking to maximise efficiency to help keep down prices on vehicle components, every change that improves this efficiency plays an important role.

The latest generation of airbag clips also offers proof of assembly, as confirmation that all retaining legs are correctly placed. This confirmation can be checked by the OEM, and proof of assembly means a higher likelihood of detecting failures at the OEM assembly line and preventing them from reaching vehicles heading out to the roadways.

The design of the clips allows for quality control and will not allow assembly to continue until the issue is resolved. Recognising that an error may occur in the assembly process, and creating a system of in-depth traceability to detect those errors, will limit the likelihood of recalls or other serious issues down the road for OEMs and suppliers.

Weight reduction with FH® ECO Plug

Where weight saving and utmost cost-effectiveness are concerned, the patented FH® ECO Plug from Flaig + Hommel GmbH offers the ultimate solution.

By using aluminium, the comparable unit weight can be reduced by another 70%. In CO 2 related applications, such as in the automotive industry, this reduced weight, coupled with extremely high manufacturing efficiency, offers unbeatable advantages.

The FH ® ECO Plug product line from Flaig + Hommel now also includes a range of new screw plugs in standard and special design. The structurally redesigned sealing faces are cold forged with no additional machining, making them very inexpensive. The self-sealing tightening bead is also 100% function tested.

Flaig + Hommel is an innovative company with a long-standing tradition in the cold forming sector. Based in Aldingen, Germany, the company can supply screw plugs of the light variety from stock, according to DIN 908 and DIN 910, and can also manufacture screw plugs from customer drawings.

www.flaig-hommel.de

AUTOMOTIVE FEATURE

DELO’s new adhesive for driver monitoring systems

DELO has developed a new, reliable sealant adhesive for CMOS image sensors, which are often used in driver monitoring systems. Glass filters can be bonded directly to the semiconductor chip using DELO DUALBOND EG6290.

CMOS image sensors are essential components in modern vehicles and are installed in LiDAR and driver monitoring systems. They must be completely sealed to keep out dust and moisture and maintain their safety functions over their entire service life.

Specially designed for the glass-on-die assembly method, the glass filter is fixed directly onto the chip, as is typical with iBGA image sensor packaging. Compared to previous products, DELO DUALBOND EG6290 has a significantly higher Young’s modulus of 2,350 MPa and significantly higher adhesion value.

Due to a glass transition temperature (Tg) of over +130°C, the adhesive exhibits mechanically consistent behaviour, even at high application temperatures, and can compensate for temperature dependent pressure changes. DELO DUALBOND EG6290 thus fulfils the requirements of the AEC-Q100 Grade 2 automotive industry standard.

The adhesive is applied via needle dispensing. Thanks to its very high thixotropy index, narrow and high bondlines can be precisely dispensed, onto which the glass filter is then joined.

Curing takes place in two successive process steps: First, the adhesive is exposed to light with a wavelength of 365Nm or 400Nm. As a result

the glass filter is fixed within a few seconds. The adhesive typically fully cures in 15 minutes at +130°C. Due to the rapid curing reaction, the matrix in the adhesive builds up quickly, which ensures the image sensor package is reliably sealed. Both the dual curing process and the comparatively low curing temperature help to minimise the pressure that usually occurs when bonding glass filters.

Kaltfließgepresst ohne Nacharbeit cold formed without machining

New connection technology for wind turbine tower sections

C1 Connection, a Dutch company from The Hague, has introduced the C1 Wedge Connection™ – a new connection technology that takes a completely different approach to connecting the tower sections in wind turbines.

The offshore wind industry is one of the backbones of the energy transition around the globe, which has led to offshore wind turbines growing massively in size over recent years. Through this development the next generation of wind turbines is expected to reach 20 megawatt of power. These large machines, with rotor diameters of over 250 metres, require tall towers to support the generator above the sea. Due to the large rotor and the tall tower, the loads exerted by these turbines have now reached a point where the traditional bolted L-flange connection simply cannot deal with the load anymore. Overturning moments at the base of these tall towers can be as high as 1GNm. To put this into perspective, this is the same load as lifting a Tesla with a 50km long stick.

Over the recent years, OEMs and wind farm developers have scaled up stud sizes at a rapid pace from M64 to M80 and M90. Even M100 studs are being considered for some wind farms. As a result, the tools required to tension these large studs become extremely heavy with weights of more than 100kg. Often workers are also required to work below suspended loads.

The C1 Wedge Connection™, developed by C1 Connections, plans to solve these challenges. The new connection technology takes a completely different approach to connect the tower sections in a wind turbine.

Working principle

The C1 Wedge Connection™ is a symmetric flange connection to connect tubular sections. The connection consists of a cylindrical shaft shaped lower flange and a fork shaped upper flange. During installation the upper flange slides over the lower flange until the top of the lower flange is in contact with the upper flange. Both flanges have radially elongated holes evenly distributed along the circumference that are aligned via a guide system during installation. C1 fasteners are placed in these holes to pull the two flanges together.

The fastener of the C1 Wedge Connection™ uses a small, horizontally placed bolt. The bolt pulls two wedges together. This pushes an upper block upwards in the lower flange and a lower block downwards in the upper flange. This creates a preload at the interface between the flanges. Upon applying the preload, the nut holds the wedges in place.

The wedges magnify the horizontal bolt force into a much larger preload (typically more than five times) at the interface between the flanges. This allows a small bolt to be used to generate a high interface preload. Due to the perpendicular orientation of the bolt between the flanges, relative to the externally applied load, it is isolated from external load fluctuations on the connection.

The C1 Wedge Connection™ uses a preload in the interface similar to traditional bolted flange connections. When an external tensile load is applied, the preload between the two flanges is reduced and the tensile load is transferred to the lower flange.

Benefits of the C1 Wedge Connection™

The C1 Wedge Connection™ presents several benefits over conventional connections. Firstly, it has a high ultimate and a high fatigue capacity, which enables future generation wind turbines to be connected to the foundations – where current L-flange connections cannot deliver sufficient capacity anymore.

In addition, offshore installation work with wind turbines requires the connection of a lot of flanges. With the growth in turbines, the tools and fasteners for conventional connections have reached a point where they cannot be handled safely by workers anymore. When installing the C1 Wedge Connection™ no fasteners need to be lifted since these components are pre-installed. Plus, the tools are lightweight since small studs are used to tighten the fasteners. Furthermore, installing conventional flange connections in offshore wind turbines is unsafe with technicians working below suspended towers. The C1 Wedge Connection™ addresses this issue by making a temporarily safe connection upon the landing of the tower onto the foundation without the involvement of personnel. This allows people to safely enter the tower once the connection is secured.

To add to this, the C1 Wedge Connection™ is typically 50% lighter than a conventional L-flange connection. As a result, the price for the total connection (flanges and fasteners) allows significant financial savings compared to traditional connections.

“Following years of development, the technology has been fully certified by DNV for use in wind turbines in dry and splash zone applications,” reports Jasper Winkes, director of C1 Connection. “The connection has already been implemented several times, including a two year successful implementation in a 14MW wind turbine. We see that the industry is embracing our solution and we have the biggest players in this field on board to introduce the technology on a large-scale to the market.”

info@eco-italia.com • www.eco-italia.com

export@kaleliler.com.tr

www.kaleliler.com.tr/en

Are 3D printed ceramic fasteners the future?

In environments where extremes are the norm – be it scorching temperatures, corrosive substances, or the void of high vacuums –traditional fasteners often fail. Here, Analisa Russo, senior application engineer at Nano Dimension – a company specialising in 3D printing solutions for polymers, ceramics and additive manufactured electronics, explains how robust and versatile 3D printed ceramic threaded fasteners could provide the innovative alternative to meet exacting functionality requirements head on.

Ceramic threaded fasteners stand as barriers against extreme conditions, with highly sought after properties including electrical insulation, non-magnetism, resistance to corrosion, as well as high temperatures. However, finding the perfect fit for harsh environments is akin to finding a needle in a haystack, especially for custom or low volume needs.

Producing a custom ceramic fastener begins with an ‘as designed’ model, drawing from existing screw thread standards or crafting bespoke designs for specific applications. Parts printed from ceramic slurries undergo a highlevel of shrinkage during sintering, so applying precise scale factors to a design prior to printing is essential for precisely matching ‘as designed’ dimensions. Female threaded features typically require a slight increase in diameter to achieve a snug fit with mating threads.

Through 3D tests it was determined that orienting screw threads so that the axis is perpendicular to the build plate, yielded the most precise results, as well as adhering to best practices for UV dose to prevent dilation of the geometry due to overcuring. Mating features were also printed in the same build, in the same orientation, to maintain uniform shrinkage and thread pitch between parts designed to interconnect.

Cleaning and post-processing

The work does not stop once the 3D printer’s hum subsides. Careful post-processing is also needed to maintain the fidelity of printed threads. Airbrushing is an effective non-contact cleaning method that prevents marring of delicate surface features, which can be used with warm water or solvents such as DPM.

As part of an internal production and testing project, 3D printed ceramic screws meeting metric standards ranging from M6 to a delicate M2 were made, alongside corresponding ceramic nuts. In the design iteration process, screws with highly accurate diameter and tooth pitch using typical Alumina printing scale factors were produced. The corresponding nuts required a diameter offset up to 0.4mm to achieve a snug fit, while keeping tooth geometry and thread pitch constant.

Spanning imperial screw sizes such as 8mm – 32mm, 10mm – 32mm, and 12mm –24mm, ceramic female threads accommodate ‘off the shelf’ hardware, underscoring the technology’s versatility across different standards, as well as use in multi-material assemblies. Beyond conventional fastening applications, some models employ threadlike features that do not need to precisely mate to external hardware. To demonstrate this concept an Alumina wire nut with internal conical cavity and coarse threads was designed and printed. Here, the action of twisting the wire nut compresses multiple wires together, forging a secure conductive connection.

While 3D printing can be used for low volume production of standard threaded fasteners, or in the production of new or non standard screw and nut geometries, it is likely that customers will encounter threaded features as just one part of a more complex custom design. Ceramic 3D printing can handle these versatile design needs in addition to withstanding demanding applications and environments.

Ceramic 3D printing can handle these versatile design needs in addition to withstanding demanding applications and environments.”

threading and turning technology

threaded and special parts

GmbH & Co.KG - Am Kalkbruch 2 - D-57413 Finnentrop

PRODUCTS

THE LATEST PRODUCT AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENTS

The TORX® ttap® drive system

Here we speak to Michael Claassen, president of CAMCAR Innovations®, about the TORX® ttap® – a premium drive system that helps make screwdriving faster and easier.

What is the history of TORX® ttap® and how does the drive system work?

“The ttap® was invented in Norway to solve problems with unstable drive systems used in the construction industry. With an unstable drive system, a construction worker must hold the workpiece in position, guide the screw, and manipulate the screw gun to drive the screw into position. This requires three hands or two people. With the ttap® drive system the screw drives in a stable (non-wobbling) fashion and sticks on the bit, meaning the installation only requires two hands as the screw no longer needs to be guided – bringing greater productivity to the job site and making it much easier for the worker.

The TORX ® ttap® utilises the high-quality TORX ® drive in combination with the ttap® button, which is a pocket at the bottom of the screw recess that mates to a corresponding button on the end of the drive bit. The engagement of the drive button with the ttap® recess creates additional points of contact, which provides remarkable stability. Not only is job site productivity improved, virtually all workpiece damage and minor cuts and bruises resulting from the drive bit slipping out of the recess are eliminated. For the worker, faster installation, and removing frustration from the work, allows quick and high-quality installations. The stability also enables the screw thread to tap into the wood faster.

This makes the TORX ® ttap® particularly suitable for the construction sector, including rough structural wood framing, steel roof systems, HVAC ducting, as well as window installation. A simple way to think about it is that it is suitable for any application where the screw is required to make its own hole.”

How does the TORX® ttap® compare to other drive systems? How does it compare to other TORX® systems?

“TORX ® was initially developed to prevent cam-out. To aid automated assembly, into tapped holes, a clearance was designed between bit and fastener recess to allow easy seating of the bit into the recess. While ideal for most industrial applications, the clearance does allow a minimal amount of wobble, which is greater than ideal for construction applications. Generic six-lobe or star bits, lacking any defining standard, often

between bit and screw than genuine TORX ®, resulting in severe generic wobble and, given their common use in construction screws, a dramatic reduction in bit life along with severe difficulties to install. TORX ® ttap® builds upon a great TORX ® system and adapts it for applications such as construction – where wobble, regardless of how minimal, cannot be tolerated.”

How do you guarantee the quality of the TORX® ttap® drive system?

“Similar to the TORX® brand, quality and consistency are critical to performance for the TORX ® ttap®. That is why we have created a quality system that includes in process gauges for manufacturers to check initial quality at the machine; final gauges to check final quality after all additional processing; detailed part and bit standards; detailed forming tool standards; and quality audits. All of this helps guarantee the quality of the TORX® drive system.”

How does a manufacturer become a licensee of the TORX® ttap® drive system? What are the benefits of becoming a licensee?

“To become a licensee, a company just needs to reach out to CAMCAR Innovations® through our website or directly to start the evaluation process. We have two licenses for this programme. The first is for the manufacturers who are only authorised to sell to brand partners and the second is for brand partner distributors who are authorised to purchase from the licensed manufacturers. The benefits of becoming a licensee now is that you are still on the front end of a growing product line that will be the premium standard in this industry. Additionally, the programme is well defined making it easy and fast to implement, as well as monetise investment as soon as possible.”

www.camcar.com

NUTS, WASHERS + LOCKING SYSTEMS FEATURE

Standard and special stamping parts – the best of both worlds

Since 1938, rfks has grown progressively and established itself as a reliable and innovative manufacturer for standard and special stamping parts on both the local and international washer market. Through combining many years of know-how with constant investment and process innovation, rfks is able to manufacture the best solution for every customer.

At the centre of the company is its 160 skilled employees across all areas of operation, including those operating 45 high-speed stamping machines, from 80 – 200 tonne press force, as well as a 25 strong in-house tool shop team –making rfks one of the leading European producers of washers according to DIN/ISO standards. At the same time, rfks supplies customised special parts for specific needs –all available in various material grades and surface coatings.

“rfks stands for reliability, efficiency and a comprehensive service underlined by our long-standing partnerships. What sets us apart from direct competitors is our versatility and know-how in both worlds –being competitive in DIN/ISO standard washers, as well as being technically defined in demanding special parts from customer drawings. Thanks to our own in-house tool design, and tool shop, rfks can provide exclusive solutions for each customer, covering a comprehensive spectrum of thicknesses from 0.05mm to 12mm and diameter from M0.8 to approximately M160,” explains Peter Schlütter, sales manager at rfks.

The combination of stamping and coining production results in multifunctional features in one stamping part. Due to its own tool shop, rfks develops intelligent tool designs for stamping solutions with fast and flexible project processing, distinguishing the rfks team from other market participants. rfks also offers its customers a comprehensive service to manufacture the products according to their needs, creating customised proposal

rfks stands for reliability, efficiency and a comprehensive service underlined by our long-standing partnerships.”

drawings by taking into account the technical functionality and usability of the product. rfks is also able to process all punchable material grades and offers a wide variety of hardness and surface options for its products. Through long-term relationships with reliable and certified suppliers for heat treatments, rfks can offer various treatments, such as nitrocarburising, austempering, hardening and tempering, as well as surface treatments, including zinc, zinc nickel, mechanical zinc, hot dip zinc, nickel, zinc lamella and phosphate.

To continue to meet customer demands, rfks is continually investing in both product innovations and production machinery. This includes two new 500 tonne press force machines and one 250 tonne press force machine installed in 2022, as well as a highly modern vibratory grinding centre added to its existing manufacturing capabilities, increasing the overall in-house stamping capacity by more than 30%.

As well as these investments, rkfs is also focusing on digitalisation with the consistent monitoring of its production processes, through the latest version of its ERP system, proAlpha 9.1.

Carl Philip Schulte, CEO at rfks, representing the third generation of the family owned business, underlines the importance of these constant investments: “In the age of digitalisation, rfks profits from a sophisticated system with controlled logistics and excellent production planning modules. In addition to that, we are implementing sustainability more and more into our everyday business. We are ambitioned to face environmental, social and governmental challenges in order to fulfil responsibilities towards the environment.”

www.rfks.com

NUTS, WASHERS + LOCKING SYSTEMS FEATURE

Securing bolted joints in every application

HEICO Group has a long history and in-depth experience of the science of bolted joints. Since the merger of its two production sites two years ago, the German manufacturer has continued to improve its operational and manufacturing efficiency, as well as become a catalyst for new product development.

With its wide and diverse product portfolio of bolt locking devices and pre-tensioning solutions, HEICO is a leader in the field of fastening technology. In addition to the classic wedge lock washers, the company offers numerous user-friendly product combinations and innovative variations, including ring lock washers, wedge lock nuts and HLK washers for special steel constructions.

HEICO-LOCK®

The HEICO-LOCK ® combi-washers, honoured in December 2023 with a Best of Industry Award, are the most innovative of HEICO’s bolt locking devices. The functionality of the combi-washers, and all locking devices from the series, is based on the wedge locking principle. The proven wedge lock washers, with its radial ribs on the outside and opposing wedge surfaces on the inside, serve as the basis. When pre-tensioning the bolted joints using HEICO-LOCK ®, the outer radial ribs are pressed into the counter part while the inner wedge surfaces effectively prevent the bolt from self-loosening.

Small tabs on the inner plastic ring allows the pre-assembly of bolts and combi-washers, which simplifies the mounting process, making this solution especially suited to applications in difficult to reach areas. However, the most important advantage of the combi-washers is the high-level of flexibility for the user, as the bolt locking device can be used universally with any type or length of bolt.

HEICO-TEC®

With its HEICO-TEC ® tensioning systems, HEICO offers a fully comprehensive system to pre-tension extra large bolted joints quickly and easily without using expensive electric, pneumatic or hydraulic tools – only a commercial torque wrench is required. Tension nuts and bolts, in standard and in customised variants, also feature in HEICO’s product range, as well as an extensive selection of accessories including reaction nuts, protective caps and lubricants.

HEICO-FORM

HEICO offers a diverse range of cold forging services under the brand name HEICO-FORM, specialising in producing customised parts such as bolts, rivets and metal pins for the automotive industry. The company operates within a versatile machine park equipped with modern multistage pressing capabilities of up to six stages. Manufacturing processes adhere to IATF 16949 standards, ensuring that the highest quality requirements of the automotive sector are met. This commitment to quality allows HEICO to deliver precise and reliable components while maintaining efficiency and flexibility in production.

www.heico-group.com

With its wide and diverse product portfolio of bolt locking devices and pre-tensioning solutions, HEICO is a leader in the field of fastening technology.”

NUTS, WASHERS + LOCKING SYSTEMS FEATURE

Anti-vibration anti-loosening technology from CZFastener

SHOXPROOF anti-vibration and anti-loosening technology from CZFastener (CZF), aims to address the root causes of loosening by utilising the virtualisation of thread clearances, rendering the transmission of vibrational forces through thread clearances ineffective in inducing loosening.

In the field of fasteners, the mechanism characteristic of using internal and external thread pairing is employed to achieve fastening purposes. The use of threaded connections is due to the loose-fit design of the fastener itself. Typically, to prevent loosening after assembly, numerous additional parts are added, leading to increased product costs, accumulation of mechanism weight and volume, as well as operational and managerial complexities.

Threads have always played a crucial role in the success and safety of mechanisms and machinery. Employing threads for connection to prevent component loosening is a necessary design requirement for mechanisms, preventing regrets stemming from minor impacts causing significant damage.

CZF works closely with its clients to ensure every fastener provided is not just a component, but a precise answer to a specific challenge. With a Taiwan patent (number I 722808) and US patent (number 12,006,962 B2), the SHOXPROOF anti-vibration and anti-loosening technology utilises the virtualisation of thread clearances. After assembly, the

locking force of the fastener, combined with axial friction, enhances the tightening force significantly. The threaded assembly mechanism, after assembly, mutually suppresses and assists each other along various axes subjected to external force transmission, meaning it is capable of resisting forces from all directions, thus preventing loosening due to any external vibrations.

“We engineer solutions that redefine industries. As a pioneering fastener sourcing and solution provider, CZF is committed to delivering tailored solutions and unmatched engineering services to our valued customers. In an ever evolving market, CZF stands at the forefront of innovation. We recognise the shifting landscape and have strategically invested in material science, weight and space reduction techniques, as well as efficient production methods,” comments the company.

www.czfastener.com

The highest quality in the shortest time

Güde GmbH is investing in a new logistics hall, with new automatic small parts warehouse, to shorten delivery times of its extensive product portfolio, including its screw locking devices, patented sperrkant spring washers, split lock washers, as well as other locking washers.

As a stock manufacturer, Güde aims to have almost all of its product portfolio in stock and ready for dispatch at short notice, with high availability and fast delivery times the reason the company ships approximately 2.5 billion parts to customers worldwide every year. The new logistics hall will shorten delivery times and further optimise internal processes.

Currently, the high availability of products is ensured by a well stocked warehouse, fully automatic packaging systems, all supported by a modern EDP (Enterprise Data Platform). Güde has also been using barcodes and scanners throughout its operations for over 15 years. Internal processes have been and are constantly being optimised, while the potential for errors is minimised.

Güde produces a wide range of screw locking devices, used in screw classes from 4.6 to 12.9 and in a dimension range of M2 – M30.

However, Güde can also produce spring washers according to DIN 127 up to M100. Standard and special parts are manufactured from spring steel, stainless steel, aluminium, bronze and special grades. The Plettenberg-based manufacturer also focuses on customer specific requirements, such as an EDI connection or individual packaging solutions.

Being a manufacturer of securing devices, Güde attaches great importance to the quality of its products. This begins with the careful selection of raw material suppliers and carries on through continuous self checks throughout the entire production process. Based on the CAQ software BABTEC, extensive quality tests are carried out throughout the entire production process in Güde’s own laboratory. Retained samples are taken and the results are then recorded and archived.

www.guede.net

KTX-Torpedo Plastic Decking Screws

(Composite

Free

(IPE,

KTX-Terrace (IPE) Screw

and more)

Drill Point

Drill extremely hard wood without predrill and without breakage

KTX-Jig for Hidden Decking

Screw System

The

Cumaru, Tigerwood, Garapa, Massaranduba

NUTS, WASHERS + LOCKING SYSTEMS FEATURE

A washer is not just a washer anymore

Hobson Engineering, a leading Australian-based supplier of quality fasteners for the mining, oil, construction and manufacturing industries, is leading the evolution of the fastener market –addressing the growing needs of updated safety standards, general performance, as well as time and cost savings, with its wide range of washers for numerous applications.

Hobson’s extensive product offering includes standard flat washers, which are a thin plate, typically round or square, with a hole that is normally in the centre. They are used for two main reasons; the first to minimise scouring or scratch damage to mating material as a result of nut rotation; the second to increase the effective bearing surface of the bolt and or nut. That is, to distribute the load of a threaded fastener over a larger area and prevent deformation of the bearing surfaces. Also offered by the company are squirter washers, known as DTIs (Direction Tension Indicating). DTI washers are used to ensure the required pre-load tension in a joint is achieved. They are hardened washers with protruding lugs or bumps on the bearing face. When the bolt assembly is tightened, these lugs are deformed to a prescribed level and hence indicate the required tension in the assembly has been achieved. During the lug deformation process, silicone is squeezed out –giving visible sign of correct tension in the bolt assembly. Hobson also offers load indicating washers (LIWs) which work much the same as DTIs, but don’t require the silicone process.

Spring washers, also called Split-lock washers, can help to resist counter-clockwise rotation caused by external forces, such as vibration, thanks to the protruding corner edges that, when the threaded fastener is tightened, bite into both compressing surfaces. Also available from Hobson, these washers should be used under the head of the bolt with the assembly being tensioned by rotating the nut. If the washer needs to be used on the nut side, another hardened flat round washer should be used between the nut and the split washer. Hobson develops its split lock washers from hardened spring steel that strongly resists compression.

Other washers that are specially designed to prevent loosening of bolted assemblies include spring washers. A Belleville washer, also known as a coned-disc spring or conical washer and cupped spring washer, is a type of spring shaped like a washer. It has a frusto-conical shape that gives the washer a spring characteristic. In the initial tightening, the effect on the joint is similar to a split type spring washer. However, as the tightening continues and the washer is flattened, it actually reduces the applied load in the bolt assembly. In this way, if the joint is loosened, the load will increase and hence counteract the loosening of the joint. Multiple Belleville washers

can be stacked to modify the spring constant or amount of deflection.

Lock washers, also known as a star washer, with teeth or prongs that extend radially inward and/or outward, are also available. These washers are designed to retain fasteners by achieving an increased friction between the fastener and the mating material – through mechanical interlocking or interference. Lock washers include two main types, teeth twisted out of plane (Type A) and edges of the teeth folded in opposite directions (Type B). Hobson offers two piece type lock washers from Nord-Lock, designed to prevent bolt assemblies loosening through vibration.

Nord-Lock washers comprise of two parts with serrated edges that grip the mating material. Its internal cam system boasts an angle exceeding the bolt thread pitch, requiring any force attempting to loosen the bolt to overcome resistance from the cams. Once a Nord-Lock washer is installed, the bolt is not going to come loose on its own.

Finally, nylon and isolating washers, which prevent increased speed of corrosion due to the galvanic reaction of dissimilar metals coming into contact with each other, are also available, as well as hardened washers used in high-tensile applications to resist washer deformation under high loads.

www.hobson.com.au

NUTS, WASHERS + LOCKING SYSTEMS FEATURE

Streamlining operations with the combi nut

Nord-Lock Group is introducing the combi nut to its standard product range, which now features a pair of Nord-Lock original washers, combining parts that were previously assembled separately as one integrated product.

Available in sizes ranging between M6 to M16, the combi nut is specially designed to enable easier and faster assembly in a range of industrial applications. This is primarily due to the upsides of not having to handle multiple loose parts in production, which could lead to incorrect assembly or accidentally dropping parts, both of which are virtually eliminated by the combi nut design.

The new product offers productivity advantages thanks to the reduced number of loose parts being used in repetitive and time sensitive assembly. Also, for applications where access and assembly are difficult, the combi nut has the potential to streamline operations significantly.

“At Nord-Lock, we first and foremost think of ourselves as a partner in bolting solutions, which means paying close attention to the challenges of specific customers and industries as a whole. Updating our standard product range with the combi nut speaks very clearly of such an organisational mentality and our capability to respond swiftly to customer needs,” states Graham Souter, vice-president, head of business unit at Nord-Lock Group. www.nord-lock.com

Böllhoff introduces KAPTI® components

The patented KAPTI NUT® from Böllhoff Group has recently been renamed to KAPTI® to make way for a product family of various functional elements, including the KAPTI® rivet nut – specially developed for the creation of screw joints in sheet metal components.

During the mechanical setting process, the new rivet nut is permanently inserted into thin steel or aluminium sheets in thicknesses of 0.7mm – 2.5mm, enabling a loss-proof solution. As well as this, they install flush with sheet metal for a sleek finish and offer high corrosion resistance as per customer requirements.

Available in sizes M5, M6, M8 and M10 in Class 8, the KAPTI® rivet nuts are suitable for press integrated and C-frame manufacturing processes, as multiple fasteners can be inserted simultaneously into the component during a single operation. This means users benefit from a high economic efficiency. Mechanical attachment of the rivet nut also eliminates the need for an exhaust system and removes the potential for thermal distortion in the components.

HAEMERS

FLAT WASHER SPECIALIST

FLAT WASHERS

Precise tolerance

All possible combinations in terms of internal and external diameter

No tooling costs

Both small and large series production, already from 50 pieces onwards

Tolerances of 0,1 and 0,05mm are no exception

Washers with a 100% flatness are perfectly possible

All standards, such as ISO7089, ISO7093, DIN125A, DIN9021, DIN7349, AFNOR NFE, KARROS, DIN522 A/C, ISO4759-3, …

The processed material concerns iron, stainless steel, plastics, copper, brass, aluminium and even cardboard

Extended range of packaging solutions in bags, small boxes or pallet boxes. In accordance with the customer’s requests

Private label packaging possible

Next generation 120XP ratchets for hard to reach fasteners

Modern cars use smaller and more compact components in the production process, presenting a new challenge for automotive technicians. GEARWRENCH, part of Apex Tool Group LLC, has therefore introduced the next generation of its 120XP ratchets for hard to reach fasteners.

The 120XP ratchets provide unparalleled access through a precision engineered head design that, GEARWRENCH says, is up to 22% more compact than existing ratchets.

In addition to the more compact head, the 120XP ratchets have a longer handle design for improved reach, leverage and comfort. Two double stacked pawls engage the 60 tooth gears to offer 120 positions that deliver a 3° swing arc to turn fasteners in tighter conditions.

GEARWRENCH’s 120XP ratchets are offered in ¼ inch, 3/8 inch and ½ inch drives, with extra long handle ratchets, as well as ratchets fitted with standard and flex heads. Sets are also available and the standard head ratchets are available with different handle lengths per drive size.

“GEARWRENCH introduced the first 120XP ratchet more than a decade ago, and users have trusted and relied on the access advantages offered by the 3° swing arc of the design,” says Chris Coll, product manager at GEARWRENCH. “We want to continue to deliver with that same level of dependability and durability that is expected in the 120XP line, and these ratchets are the ideal combination of performance and value.”

SOCKETS + WRENCHES FEATURE

Torque with a ‘click’

When it comes to controlled high torque transfer, Wera’s Click-Torque wrenches, so named by the audible click that indicates the mechanism release when the set torque is reached, are the suitable solution for torquing applications.

Capable of applying up to 1,000Nm of force, the newly available wrenches feature a long leaver and two easy to read torque scales, which are displayed on the handle.

A clear click sounds when each value displayed on the scale is reached. The audible feedback helps to indicate when the desired value has been reached and the wrench can then be locked. The same signal also sounds during the torquing process to help avoid the transfer of too much force.

The entire Click-Torque range comprises of 33 torque wrenches, including versions with a switch lever to enable direction change; wrenches with a captive square drive; as well as wrenches for insert tools, which can also be used for clockwise and anti-clockwise tightening.

To help make usage easier for its users, Wera Werkzeuge GmbH has printed abrasion resistant QR codes on its torque wrenches and inserts tools. Users simply need to scan the QR code, enter the target value and the set value will then be displayed.

SOCKETS +

WRENCHES FEATURE EVO® cable tie tool gets a refresh

A patented design for heavy-duty applications

Designed with the user in mind, and manufactured for strength and durability, the new Wright® Striking Wrenches improve fastener torque load while decreasing rounding and distortion of the fastener.

Designed to withstand heavy-duty applications, Wright’s wrenches are manufactured in the USA with strength and durability. Available in four different styles – straight handle, SAE offset handle, metric offset handle and straight handle/orange finish – these wrenches come in nearly 100 sizes, ranging from 11.7cm – 32mm (4 ⅝ inches – 12.5 inches).

The new wrenches also feature a new patented Wright Drive 2.0® 12 point design, which the company reports has up to 10 times more tool to fastener contact area than conventional 12 point wrenches. Also available is a Wright Drive 2.0® 6 point design, which moves the contact area away from the corners. This specialised circular diameter design improves fastener torque load while decreasing rounding and distortion of the fastener.

“Our striking wrenches are ideal for applications involving heavy construction equipment, off-highway equipment, power plants and large chemical and processing facilities,” says Tom Futey, president and co-owner at Wright Tool Company.

HellermannTyton has released updated versions of its handheld cable tie application tools, EVO 7i and 9i, offering visual and functional enhancements in-line with the company’s ongoing strategy to produce tools for customers processing wire, cable and tubular bundles.

Akey feature of the EVO® line is HellermannTyton Corporations’s patented Tension-Lock-Cut technology, which freezes the tensioner before the cut is made, eliminating kick back. The specially designed ergonomic handles also help to reduce repetitive strain injuries for the user.

The EVO 7i tension and cut cable ties ranging from 18lbs –80lbs, while the heavier duty EVO 9i processes 50lb to 255lb ties, including wide strap ties. Both tools are available in standard or short hand span models to accommodate all users. An additional model, the EVO 9HT, delivers even higher tensions for applications such as heavy equipment manufacturing.

Each tool is housed in a lightweight composite body that is resistant to damage and is moulded in the company’s signature dark blue.

Streamlining the rivet selection process

Jaton Riveting Products (JRP), the dedicated riveting brand from Owlett-Jaton, is helping to streamline the rivet selection process with a new online comparison product finder, exclusively designed to assist customers in finding the exact JRP riveting product for their needs.

Following four months of development, as well as invaluable input from JRP Technical Support Specialist Warren Keeley, the tool is now live and ready for action. The unique comparison product finder is an easy to use online converter accessed via the JRP website, whereby the user simply enters an alternative supplier code into the box, and it returns the JRP equivalent. Offering side by side alternatives to help

Concrete anchors, mechanical Concrete Bolt Concrete screws Conical seat Conical seat, wide Conical spring washers

Corrosion

coatings Cr(VI) free finishes Cranked bolts Cross recessed countersunk (flat) head wood screw Cross recessed countersunk flat head screw Cross recessed countersunk head tapping screw Cross recessed pan head tapping screw Cross recessed raised countersunk head screw Cross recessed raised countersunk head tapping screw Cross recessed raised countersunk head wood screw Cross recessed round head wood screw Crusher

(tunnel)

Curved spring

washers Curved spring washer Cutting knifes D Shackles Data Collection & Management software Disc springs

Drilling & Cutting Tools Drivers and screw insertion systems Drop-in anchors Drywall fixings and systems E-Business software Enamelled wire / magnet wire / winding wire External tab washer External tooth lock washer Eye nuts Eyebolts Façade and insulation fixings Fastener design and production simulation Feeding/discharging equipment Fish tail bolts Flat countersunk head nib bolts Flat counter sunk head square neck bolts with long square Flat countersunk head square neck bolts with short square Florist’s wire Forged bolt blanks Forged turnbuckles (Open type) Forging/heading machinery Foundation bolts Groooved pin with round head Grooved nuts Grooved pin with countersunk head Grooved pin, full length parallel grooved with pilot Grooved pin, full length parallel with chamfer Grooved pin, full length taper grooved Grooved pin, half length reverse Grooved pin, half length taper grooved Grooved pin, one-third length centre grooved Grooved rivet Hammerdrive rivet Hand tools Hardware/DIY prepacks and assortments Heat treatment Heavy Duty Bolt Clamps Heavy Duty Clamps Heavy duty hexagon head screw plugs Helical compression spring Helical tension spring Hexagon bolts with flange Hexagon

cap nuts, low type Hexagon collar nuts with a height of 1.5 d Hexagon couplers Hexagon dome cap nuts, high type Hexagon fit bolt with long thread Hexagon head bolts with hexagon nut for steel structures Hexagon head bolts with shank Hexagon head bolts with shank - metric fine pitch thread Hexagon head bolts with shank - Product grade C Hexagon head fit bolt with short thread Hexagon head screw with full metric fine pitch thread Hexagon head screws with full thread Hexagon head screws with partial thread Hexagon head screws with thread up to the head - Product grade C Hexagon head tapping screw Hexagon head woods screws Hexagon nut Hexagon nuts - Product grade C Hexagon nuts - Style 2 Hexagon nuts with a height of 1.5 d Hexagon nuts with flange Hexagon nuts with metric coarse pitch thread Hexagon nuts with metric fine pitch thread Hexagon pipe nut Hexagon slotted and castle nuts Hexagon socket button head screws Hexagon socket button head screws with

collar Hexagon socket countersunk head screws Hexagon socket grub screws with thrust point Hexagon socket head cap screw fully threaded Hexagon socket head

cap screws Hexagon socket head cap screws with centre, with low head Hexagon socket head cap screws with low head Hexagon socket head cap screws with metric fine pitch thread Hexagon socket head shoulder screws Hexagon socket pipe plugs Hexagon socket screw plugs Hexagon socket set screws with cone point Hexagon socket set screws with cup point Hexagon socket set screws with dog point Hexagon socket set screws with flat point Hexagon thin nuts (chamfered) Hexagon thin nuts (chamfered) - with metric fine pitch thread Hexagon thin nuts (unchamfered) Hexagon thin slotted and castle nut Hexagon thin slotted and castle

Hose Clamps & Clips Hot Dip Galvaised products

Indented

Industrial coatings Inserts for stone and marble Inserts for Tubes Inserts for Wood Inspection and quality control Interior fixings Internal tab washer for slotted round nuts J-bolts Jack nut inserts Knurled nuts, high type Knurled nuts, low type Knurling Dies L-bolts Lifting eye bolts Light duty anchors and fixings Lightning protection wire Liner bolts Lock washer MB Locking devices and seals Locknuts Locknuts for rolling bearings Maintenance and environmental control Material preparation and inspection Ma terials and semi-finished products Materials/product handling and transfer Measuring tapes Metal and plastic spacers Metallizing wire Mooring rings Multigrip rivet Nail Plugs & Hammer Fixings Nailing/stapling tools and systems Nails, pins and staples Nails, staples and brads Nitriding Non-ferrous fasteners (brass, titani um, aluminium, copper) Non-metric fasteners Nozzles & adaptors Nut for T-slots Nylon cable clamps Open end rivet nuts Other assembly tools and equipment Other construction fasteners and fixings Other forming technologies Other industrial fasteners and fixings Overhead powerline shackles Packaging equipment, mate rials and services Parallel pins with internal thread, hardened Parallel pins with internal thread, unhardened Parallel pins, hardened Parallel pins, unhardened Peel rivet Pivi clamps Plain washer - 100 HV Plain washer - from 300 HV - Product grade A Plain washer - up to 250 HV - Product grade A Plain washer for clevis pins - Prod

SEARCH BY PRODUCT

uct grade C Plain washer for clevis pins, medium finish Plain washer- Small series - Product grade A Plain washer, large, for timber constructions Plain washers - Large series - Product grade A Plain washers for bolts with heavy clamping sleeves Planetary Thread Rolling dies for Nails Plastic and nylon fasteners Plastic cable tie and holder Plastic circuit board hardware Plastic inserts Plastic nuts Plastic panel fasteners Plastic rivets Plastic screws Plastic washers Power Driven Uncoilers Power tools Pressed plates Presses and insertion tools/equipment Presses and stamping machinery Prevailing torque type all-metal hexagon high nuts with non-me tallic insert Prevailing torque type all-metal hexagon nuts Prevailing torque type all-metal hexagon nuts with flange Prevailing torque type all-metal high nuts Pre vailing torque type all-metal nuts with flange Prevailing torque type hexagon dome cap nuts with non-metallic insert Prevailing torque type hexagon nuts with flange with non-metallic insert Prevailing torque type hexagon nuts with non-metallic insert, heavy type Prevailing torque type hexagon regular nuts with non-metallic insert and metric fine pitch thread Prevailing torque type hexagon thin nuts with non-metalic insert Process control and data processing Projecting Shield Anchor Bolts PU foam guns Quad nut inserts Quenching and tempering Reinforced contact spring lock washer Retaining ring with lugs for shafts Retaining rings for bores Retaining rings for shafts Retaining washer for shafts Rivet countersunk head Rivet flat round head Rivet mushroom head Rivet round head Riveting tools, equipment and systems Roofing and solar installation fixings Roofing Bolt and Square Nut - Mushroom Head Rope wire Round couplers Round turnbuckles (open type) Rubber nut inserts Sales Intelligence & CRM software Sandblasting Sanitary and plumbing fixings Screw plugs Screw wire Sealed rivet Sealing bolts Sealing fasteners Sealing nuts Sealing rings Sealing screws Sealing washers Security fasteners for buildings

450 PRODUCTS

drilling screw with hexago nal head Self locking counter nuts (PAL) Self piercing/clinching fastener systems

Anchor Eye Bolts Shim rings and supporting rings Silver coatings Single coil spring lock washers for cheese head screws Sleeve Anchor Slotted capstan screw Slotted cheese head screws Slotted countersunk (flat) head wood screws Slotted countersunk head screws Slotted countersunk head tapping screw Slotted headless screws with shank Slotted pan head screw, large head Slotted pan head screw, small head Slotted pan head screw, with shoulder Slotted pan head screws Slotted pan head tapping screw Slotted raised countersunk head screws Slotted raised countersunk head tapping screw Slotted raised countersunk oval head wood screws Slotted round head wood screws Slotted round nut Slotted round nuts for hook spanner; ISO metric fine thread Slotted screw insert Type A Slotted set screws with cone point Slotted set screws with cup point Slotted set screws with flat point Slotted set screws with long dog point Slotted shoulder screw Smoothing tools  Snap ring for shafts Spade connector ends (machined) Special Clamps Special/to drawing fasteners Spherical washer Spirit Levels Split pins Spray Guns and hoses Spring lock washers, barbed plain Spring pins/roll pins - slotted, heavy-duty Spring pins/roll pins - slotted, light duty Sqaure head bolt with collar and short rounded dog point Square head bolt with collar Square head bolt with short dog point Square nut Square square bolts Square taper washer - especially for timber constructions Square taper washer especially for timber constructions Square taper washer 14% fpr I-sections Square taper washer 8% for U-sections Square taper washer for I-sections Square taper washer for U-sections Square thin nut Square washer plates Square weld nuts DIN 928 Square weld nuts DIN 929 Stainless steel fasteners Stainless steel fixings Stainless steel marine products Stainless steel wire and bars Staple wire Storage and materials handling Structural assembly set Structural assembly set with fit bolt Structural rivets Structural steel fasteners Structural tension and compression system Stud bolts metric thread Stud for T-slot nuts Studs - metal end ≈ 1 d Studs metal end ≈ 1.25 d Studs - metal end ≈ 2 d Studs - metal end ≈ 2.5 d Surface treatment, coatings and sealant systems T-head bolt T-head bolt with square neck T-head bolts Tab washer with long and short tab Tab washers for slotted nut to DIN 70852 Tap washer with long tab Taper pin with external thread and constant taper length Taper pins with external thread, unhardened Taper pins with internal thread, unhardened Taper pins, unhardened Thick hexagon nuts (special purpose) Thread cutting

screws - cross recessed head screws Thread cutting screws - hexagon screws and slotted head screws Thread forming, assembly and secondary operations Thread

Rolling Dies – Cylindrical Thread Rolling Dies – Flat Thread Rolling Dies – Planetary Thread Rolling Dies for Aerospace Fasteners Thread rolling screws Threaded cou plers Threaded inserts Threaded rod Threaded rods and suspension fixings Throughbolts Tie bars Tie rods Tooling, dies and punches Toothed lock washers Trian gle head bolt

Turned/machined parts Tyre wire U-bolts Wall plugs Washers for clamping devices Washers for steel structures - Product grade A Washers for steel structures - Product grade C Waterproofing solutions Wave spring washer Wax cones Wedge bolts Weighing/counting equipment and services Welding stud with hexagon nut

we’re sure you’ll find what you need Find your new supplier today at

Welding wire / cored wire / filler rod Welding/soldering equipment Wheel bolts Wheel nuts Window screws/frame anchors Wing nuts, rounded wings Wing screws, rounded wings Wire Drawing Equipment Wire Feeders Wire for architectural wire mesh Wire for use in the aircraft Wire for use in the automotive and diverse transportation Wire for use in the military Wire Payoff Equipment Wire Pointing Machines Wire Straighteners & Cutoffs Wire threaded insert Wood/chip board/decking screws Worm Drive Clamps Zincflake coatings

The drill screw with amazing sharpness

The ONIBA PIAS from SUNCO Industries offers an innovative screw solution, featuring a special blade edge that can easily penetrate sheet steel – removing the need for pre-drilling.

ONIBA PIAS removes the need to prepare special bits, with users only needing to use a cross bit and install the screw. Once placed, the screw maintains a strong and reliable hold in the material. The screw family also offers a high-level of corrosion resistance as the screws are capable of enduring a salt spray test for 2,000 hours.

Among the product family is the ONIBA PIAS PAN, which can be screwed with an impact driver – although SUNCO highlights the importance of not overtightening. For harder metal sheets, the Demon Blade PIAS PAN is suitable as one of the sharpest items in SUNCO’s PIAS brand line-up.

www.sunco.co.jp

Strong and flexible universal adhesive

Flex 310 M Hybrid is a universally applicable, one component, SMP-based adhesive and sealant from WEICON GmbH & Co KG, offering high elasticity, good mechanical strength, as well as high mould resistance.

on-corrosive to surfaces and able to be sanded or painted over, Flex 310 M Hybrid is free of silicone, isocyanate, and solvents, and offers high resistance against weather, as well as being low in both odour and emissions.

This adhesive and sealant also adheres well to powder-coated, galvanised, anodised, chromated or hot dip galvanised surfaces, even without extensive surface pre-treatment with a primer. Flex 310 M Hybrid also adheres to a wide variety of materials, such as metal, various plastics, natural stone, concrete, masonry, plaster, wooden floors, glass and more.

This universal adhesive and sealant can be used in many industrial areas, such as tank and apparatus construction, car body, container and vehicle construction, pipework and fitting construction, in the energy and electrical industries, in insulation technology and in plastics technology, among others.

During application, the surfaces to be bonded must be dry, clean and free of oil, grease and dust. Processing temperature of the adhesive and sealant is between 5°C to 40°C. WEICON outlines that the adhesive skin forms after approximately 10 minutes and the first 2mm – 3mm of the material will harden in the first 24 hours.

The latest range of spring return tensioners

UK-based bolt tensioning specialist TensionPro has launched a new range of spring return hydraulic tensioners, optimised for topside applications in the offshore oil and gas industry.

Versatile and reliable for all bolting applications, and designed to suit ANSI, ASME and API flanges, the HTR series features a fast spring piston return, making these tools the ideal choice for tightening several bolts in multiple pass operations.

Powerful internal springs reset the tensioner piston, so it is always ready for the next operation – thus reducing operator fatigue and increasing the speed of tensioning. The tools include important safety features such as a maximum stroke indicator and an internal relief valve to prevent accidental piston overstroke. This eliminates unnecessary downtime spent replacing a seal.

The CE marked range operates at 1,500 bar and comes with a pressure test certificate, as well as detailed operating, maintenance and safety manuals. In addition, all HTR tensioners are available from stock and can be configured with single or twin ports – accompanied by standard pumps, hoses and fittings.

“These new HTR tools are an excellent addition to our standard tensioner range. We are very pleased with the design, which incorporates the best quality components and surface treatments available without impacting on customer cost – ensuring our positioning in the market,” explains Richard Outram, sales director at TensionPro.

NEWS IN BRIEF PRODUCTS

Rivit offers riveting machines with booster

To meet the need for rivets and rivet nuts with larger diameters than standard, Rivit Srl offers riveting machines in the ‘B’ version with external hydro-pneumatic booster –capable of adjusting and exerting a higher pulling force.

Rivit is offering two models of riveting machines with booster, the RIV511B and RIV916B, respectively designed for fastening structural rivets and rivet nuts. These two models meet the needs of sectors requiring a particularly strong fastening, such as industrial bodywork, automotive, construction, heavy carpentry and industrial applications in general.

A commitment to excellence ‘beyond the bond’

LOCTITE® is reinforcing its commitment to exceed customer expectations in adhesive solutions by going ‘beyond the bond’ with full, end-to-end support, through educational initiatives aimed at enhancing the understanding and application of adhesives.

Firstly, there is the LOCTITE ® Xplore eLearning platform, a free to use educational tool in the industry. In addition to online resources, LOCTITE ® continues to offer in-person workshops and line surveys as it fosters close partnerships with each of its customers.

The rise of Tectorius®

Tec-Bond® 235 and 251

Tectorius® states that its Tec-Bond® 235 and 251 are ideal replacements for the recently announced discontinuation of two of 3M Corporation’s renowned thread adhesive products, 2353 and 2510.

Tec-Bond® 235 and 251 boast ‘plug and play’ replacements for these 3M products, with the Tec-Bond® formula providing resistance to vibration, shock and thermal cycling – ensuring that threaded fasteners remain securely in place even in the most challenging environments.

New cable management clips for solar installations

JET PRESS Ltd has announced the introduction of the Heyco solar cable management products to its portfolio, tailored specifically for the solar and photovoltaic industry.

These products include an extensive range of cable clips, ties and connectors designed to improve the installation efficiency and longevity of solar systems. The solutions are ideal for commercial and residential installers, EPC contractors and OEMs involved with inverters, combiners and racking systems.

Enhancing efficiency in material handling

WDS Components Ltd is able to offer an extensive portfolio designed to enhance material handling across various industries, with a focus on innovation.

WDS offers a collection of wheels and castors, levelling feet, conveyor parts, and tube inserts, which are engineered to meet the demands of diverse environments, including the stringent requirements of the hygienic, medical, and food industries, as well as the precision and high load needs of sectors such as aerospace and automotive.

Chemique Adhesives helps to maximise efficiency

Chemique Adhesives and Sealants Ltd has collaborated with both Mannok and Finishing Design Services (FDS) to develop a new, state of the art production line for bonding plasterboard to PIR insulation.

Considering future requirements for output and environmental impact, Mannok, FDS, and Chemique Adhesives, collectively determined that adopting a PU bead system would be the optimal choice for the new process. The adhesive used is from the Solfre range of polyurethane adhesives and its unique formulation provides superior resistance to chemicals, heat, humidity and thermal shock.

AD INDEX

3 Star Rivet 161

310 Express 166

Abbey Clamps 15

Achilles Seibert GmbH 11

Acton 73

Advance Spare 43

Albert Pasvahl GmbH & Co 9

Alexander Paal GmbH 171

Ambrovit 13

Apex 41

APM Hexseal 141

A.S.F Fischer BV 53

Astrotech Steels Private Ltd 125

Avon Stainless Fasteners Ltd 69

Bäcker GmbH & Co KG 133

BBA Fasteners Srl 67

Bendfast 170

Berardi Group 61

Bonotto Packaging Srl 115

Bossong 97

Bralo 21

Brighton Best International 61

Bülte GmbH

Kunststofferzeugnisse 97

CAMCAR Innovations™ 79, 149

Canali Srl 147

CEIA 109

Chavesbao 21

Colombo Special Fasteners 77

CZ Fasteners Parts Co Ltd 155

Don Quichotte B.V 95

DS Fasteners 75

E.CO. Srl 145

E.U.R.O. Tec GmbH 45

Fastbolt 1, 2

Fastener + Fixing Magazine 123

FastFixSearch.com 165

FastFixTechnology.com 139

Fastener 2000 GmbH 69

Fastener Fair Global 89

FASTENER POLAND® 87

Fixi Srl 15

Flaig + Hommel GmbH

Verbindungselemente 143

Fong Prean Industrial Co Ltd 167

Fuchs+Sanders GmbH & Co KG 71

Fuerniss GmbH 73

Gala Precision Engineering 27

Goebel UK 83

Graewe GmbH & Co KG 147

Growermetal 135

Güde GmbH 155

Haemers NV 159

Hafren Fasteners Ltd 141

Halfmann Schrauben GmbH 63

HA ŠPL a.s 164

HEICO Befestigungstechnik GmbH 153

Hisener 4, 5

Hobson Engineering Pty Ltd 58, 59 Index 3

Inoxdadi 83

Institut Dr. Foerster

GmbH & Co KG 114

J Lanfranco & Cie 121, 153

Jiangsu Yongyi Fastener Co 29

Jiaxing Kinfast

Ltd 111, 162

Co Ltd 169

CHOOSE SIMPLICITY

It's how to achieve streamlined installation processes.

That’s why we are introducing the Nord-Lock® Combi Nut. This product reduces the number of parts your operators have to deal with by combining our world-famous washers with a nut. The result? A faster, safer way to get the job done.