Fastener + Fixing Magazine #47 by Fastener + Fixing Magazine

See us on stand 4. B14 19th-20th September 2007

Exhibition List pages 49-51 CONTENTS

Inside wholesaling, quality and safety

NEWS Europe and World . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-18 North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-24 Russia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-30 Asia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34-38 EVENTS CALENDAR New! . . . . . . . . 52

Insight

Pages 42-44, 68-70, 72, 86-88, 122-124

FACE-2-FACE Bernhard Berrang - EFDA . . . . . 64-66 Steve Auld - Trifast plc . . . . . . . . 78-80

Heat treatment matters

Manufacturing Technology

COVER STORY Reyher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-41

Pages 102-116

The Big fastener shows - worldwide

INSIGHT Bringing wholesaling into sharp focus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-44 The Aladdin's Cave of fasteners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68-70 New European initiative in Shanghai . 72 Building a brand that meets approval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86-88 Hard-Lock - securing against vibration . . . . . . . . . . . 122-124 EXHIBITIONS Fastener Fair Stuttgart. . . . . . . . . . . 46 Fastener Fair Coventry . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Practical World Shanghai. . . . . . . . . 58 NIFS West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 STAFDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS Torque controlled expansion anchors . . . . . . . . . . . 82-84 Ceiling collapse in the Interstate Connector Tunnel . . . . . . . . . . . . 90-92 News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94-96

Exhibitions

Pages 42-62

PROFILE Lakshmi Precision Screws . . . . . . . . . . 74 APPLICATIONS Wind of change brings supply chain challenges . . . . . . . 118-120

Wind energises business

TECHNICAL Estimates of diameter and strength of bolts for a given application. . . . . . 126 FOCUS ON Construction, anchors & fixings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98-101

Applications

Pages 118-120

Echoes from a tunnel

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY Matching furnance type to production need . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102-104 Are you sure the heat treatment is right? . . . . . . . . . 104-106 News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108-114 MANAGEMENT & SYSTEMS News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128 Help Them Help You: Setting expectations with suppliers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130-132 TOOLS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134-137 CATALOGUE RACK Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138-139

Fixings

Pages 82-96

PRODUCTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144-160 RECRUITMENT & ADVERTISERS INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

Echoes from a tunnel In July the US National Transportation Safety Board adopted its accident report on the fatal ceiling collapse in Boston’s Interstate 90 Connector Tunnel. It is a comprehensive document that I found fascinating, if at times disturbing, reading. Fortunately for this magazine, so did Mark Salmon, a regular contributor to these pages, who has provided an analysis of the report’s By Phil Matten relevance to fixings companies this side of the Atlantic. On our US News pages you will also find extracts from the NTSB report’s executive summary, and details of how to download a full copy. There also is John Wolz’ latest report on the grave situation facing Powers Fasteners Inc., which has been indicted on a charge of involuntary manslaughter in relation to the accident. To a long distance onlooker there are quite bizarre aspects to what is happening in Boston. Perhaps the greatest concern, though, should be that financially focused battles fought out in public do not draw attention away from the concatenation of errors described by the NTSB and their tragic consequence.

Every way up? As the effect of China’s reduction in export rebate on fasteners ripples across the world there is talk about the prospect of a ‘new China’ – the next source for even lower cost fastener supplies. No one, though, is able to name a region, and these comments seem more expressions of hope than probability. As a director of one major importer said recently, “despite the price increases coming through it has to be recognised that China remains the lowest cost source for most standard fasteners, and that is not likely to change”. So does that mean that the days of perpetually lower fastener manufacturing prices are gone? Trifast CEO, Steve Auld was emphatic when we spoke a few weeks ago. “I cannot see fasteners ever being as low cost as they were towards the end of the 1990s. There are too many inflationary factors – raw materials, energy, labour, freight, government actions. Like it or not we are in a period of sustained fastener price inflation.” Bernhard Berrang, EFDA’s president and a man who thinks deeply before pronouncing, makes a parallel point – effectively that for costs to be reduced something has to give. Within the mature customersupplier relationships his business engenders he clearly has in mind design review, perhaps lowered expectations, or a stronger perspective on total not just unit costs – but never for reliability or safety to be jeopardised. It doesn’t feel too cynical, though, to suggest that in less well-ordered circumstances there is also the real risk of unseen corners being cut. More, incidentally, from both these gentlemen in this issue’s Face2Face interviews.

Which way the future? While I might well question blind reliance on market forces in all circumstances – it seems to me there are times when markets react too slowly or too quickly with painful consequences - I have no doubt about their brutal implacability over time. There is no question that, taken in short views, costs will fall as well as rise – the effect of falling nickel prices on stainless steel is demonstration enough. Having said that, its worth remembering that, while nickel prices have fallen to virtually half their peak earlier this year the current level is still four times higher than the same period in 2002. The real issue is the long-term curve. Steve Auld is far from alone in believing that will prove to be upward for fasteners. For years fastener salespeople were trained and practiced in a deflationary market. There was always somewhere cheaper to go to buy fasteners. That this had been habit forming was clearly demonstrated when raw material increases churned the fastener market into a maelstrom in 2004. Perhaps the crucial question now is one of preparedness – whether old habits will be allowed to die hard or whether the industry decides that times have changed. If the latter then the challenge surely is to train and manage its people to have confidence in negotiating a decent price for what is, lest anyone forgets, an engineered product in many cases destined for use in a critical application. Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

Fastener & Fixing Europe 18 Alban Park, Hatfield Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 OJJ, UK Tel: 0044 (0) 1727 739 150 Fax: 0044 (0) 1727 831 033 Publisher Jeremy Ramsdale jerry@fastfair.net

Editor Phil Matten phil@fastfair.net

Assistant Editor Will Lowry will@fastfair.net

Advertising Manager Jamie Mitchell jamie@fastfair.net

Advertising Executive Harry Whyte harry@fastfair.net

Production Citrusfresh production@fastfair.net

Fastener & Fixing Europe 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. 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.

Copyright Entire contents copyright © Fastener Fairs Limited 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 £60/€90

Chinese fastener demand to reach RMB40bn by 2010 Demand in China for industrial fasteners is projected to increase 9.4 percent annually to RMB40 billion (3.9 billion euros) in 2010, according to Cleveland-based Freedonia Group in its latest industry report. Gains will be supported by rapid growth in manufacturing production, especially of industrial machinery and motor vehicles. Increasing production of electrical and electronic products will also provide growth opportunities, although these gains will be less pronounced than over the past decade. In addition, industrial fastener demand will be driven by expansion and modernisation of China’s infrastructure and building construction activities. Functional competition from alternative joining technologies such as adhesives and welding, as well as new materials and manufacturing methods that reduce the number of fasteners required in durable goods production, will restrain further increases. Non-threaded sales will post the strongest gains among standard fastener types, rising 10.4% annually through 2010, stimulated by rapid growth in durable goods production and construction activity, as well as by further technological innovations in non-threaded fastener design. Externally threaded fasteners will remain the dominant standard fastener type,

accounting for nearly three-fifths of total fastener demand, as these fasteners are less likely to be replaced by alternative joining methods. Aerospace-grade fastener demand will outpace advances for standard fasteners, rising 12% per year through 2010, spurred by government investment in non building construction, commercial aircraft, and aerospace and defence applications. Nevertheless, aerospace-grade fasteners will continue to comprise less than one percent of total demand. By way of comparison, demand for aerospace-grade fasteners in the US will constitute nearly 20% of total fastener demand in 2010. Construction demand for fasteners will outpace that of both the OEM and maintenance/repair/operations (MRO) markets. Demand for fasteners in construction applications will increase 10.8% annually through 2010, driven by government funding for large-scale infrastructure construction and government efforts to increase private home ownership. However, the OEM market will remain the largest in China, as demand is stimulated by rapid growth in the industrial machinery, motor vehicle, and electrical and electronic product markets. The 170 page Fasteners in China report was published in July and is available for US$4,900 from the Freedonia Group, Inc., www.freedoniagroup.com.

Parker takes up Severstal-metiz position Andrew Parker, previously sales and marketing director of Bridon International, has joined the Severstal-metiz team as business unit director of Severstal-metiz Europe and CEO of Carrington Wire Limited (CWL), the UK based division of Severstal-metiz. From 1st August 2007, he took responsibility for CWL operations as well as the European sales, marketing and business development for all Severstal-metiz group products/services. In its statement Severstal-metiz says Andrew Parker will be reviewing the Carrington Wire business model to develop the business to offer clients higher value added products and services using the synergies within the group. Severstal-metiz is committed to developing its position within the European market as a higher value added and service orientated business within the international steel industry. Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

NEWS

Bufab buys into Spain Bufab has acquired Suminox S.L, which has operations in Barcelona, Madrid, Seville and Bilbao, Spain. The company focuses on the stainless steel market, has sales of £6.5million and employs 27 people. The new company will be called Suminox Bufab S.L. ”This is an important step for Bufab”, says Hans Björstrand, CEO of Bufab. ”It is a very positive move. It gives us new possibilities on a market where we have not been present earlier and further strengthens our overall position in Europe. Our strategy is to continue to expand during the coming years to become a leading supplier of fasteners worldwide.” The former owners Joan Gimenez Alberto and Carles Seijo Camats will remain managing directors at Suminox Bufab S.L.

Norm Fasteners sets up Delta Protekt® coating line Turkish manufacturer Norm Fasteners has been appointed as a licenced coatings facility, applying Dörken MKS-Systeme for micro-layer corrosion protection systems. From the beginning of October Norm will be able to supply inhouse coated fasteners with DeltaProtekt®, Delta®-Tone, Delta®-Seal and Deltacoll®. Norm has established the inhouse coating facility and signed the agreement with Dörken MKS-Systeme in order to provide the high corrosion protection and specific friction coefficient requirements of automotive OEM and Tier 1 suppliers. In another development , Norm Fasteners has incorporated tooling manufacturing and design

company NE-DU to its group. A high level of competition all over the world market is forcing companies to take compulsory actions on reducing the cost and lead times. To keep abreast of these conditions, Norm Fasteners has established its own tooling company to serve OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers with fast solutions, as well as the competitive pricing and high quality for which the professional team within the Norm group is renowned. Currently NE-DU supplies dies and secondary operations on semi-finished parts and has 22 employees led by two engineers. Now this operation meets the needs of Norm Fasteners and in the future plans to be a solution partner for other companies in the fasteners industry.

IEW celebrates 25th anniversary The German trading company, Industrial Equipment Westendorff GmbH (IEW), celebrated its 25th company anniversary in July. The company founded by Klaus Westendorff in 1982, has its principal office in Erkrath near Düsseldorf, the capital of North RhineWestphalia. The company is favourably located at the intersection of three motorways, which facilitates quick and punctual delivery to the customers. Under the direction of the managing partner, Eduard Rempe, a team of

ten committed members of staff concentrate on making high-quality connecting parts available ‘just in time’ to its business partners. IEW delivers all products according to customer specification and in the requested lot sizes, exactly to customer’s requirements. Managing director, Mr Rempe, commented ”With this flexible and reliable service, we are helping our industrial partners to efficiently achieve their production targets. At the same time, this ensures the future of our company; after all, we want to successfully exist for the next 25 years”.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

NEWS

Punjabi fastener makers cooperate to meet export demand According to reports in the Indian media Punjab-based fastener manufacturers have decided to set up a joint export house to handle big export orders. The ministry of small scale industry is reported to have already approved the project, and suitable land is being scouted near Ludhiana for the purpose. The industry’s objective is to double its turnover as a result of the new joint venture. At present, there are reported to be about 1,000 units manufacturing fasteners for all types of industries. However, their individual capacity constraints mean they have not been able to win big export orders. Last year, the reports say, a US based auto transmission company was prepared to

place a Rs 1,000 crore order, but no manufacturer was in a position to meet the total demand. After losing this big order, industrialists decided to work jointly to cater to the growing demand. The joint operation would occupy a 60 acre site with shared infrastructure including a test laboratory and common effluent treatment plant. Narinder Bhamra, president of the Fasteners Manufacturers Association of India (Punjab), confirmed that the central ministry has approved the project. Investment is expected to total Rs 450 crore, with the project planned to be operational within three years. Bhamra expects total turnover to jump to Rs 1,500-2,000 crore from Rs 1,000 crore. Central government is expected to provide 70% of investment, with the remainder contributed by manufacturers. 76 business units are reported to have signed up and paid an initial fee to participate in the project.

CEN anti-counterfeit workshop CEN, the European committee for standardisation, has announced a 14-month workshop to develop procedures for the detection of counterfeit goods and the provision of proof that can enable their seizure and the arrest of perpetrators. CEN says the number of counterfeit products manufactured in Europe, as well as other parts of the world, is on the rise. The workshop, which starts 2 October 2007, is also expected to come up with methods for authentication and secure tracking of legitimate goods. CEN’s release does not define the scope of the workshop or types of products the workshop will consider. The workshops eventual consensus document can be transformed into a formal European standard.

Tappex buys Swedish distributor Stratford-upon-Avon based Tappex Thread Inserts Ltd. has acquired one of Sweden’s leading fastener distributors, AB C Edgren, located in Örebro, around 200 kilometres west of Stockholm. Announcing the acquisition Tappex group managing director, Tim Barnsdale said, “Edgren have been successfully distributing our fasteners in the Scandinavian countries for the past 20 years and we have established an excellent working relationship with the company. They have a very broad industrial base, including

customers in the automotive, sheet metal, fabricating and building industries. “This acquisition will safeguard our markets in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden and facilitate our expansion abroad. It will also provide marketing opportunities for Tappex’s presswork and assembly sister company, Pressavon Ltd.” “Lars Olof Pontynen, previously technical director of AB C Edgren has been appointed managing director.” Tappex is a privately owned UK fastener specialist, which has designed, developed and manufactured threaded inserts for more than 50 years.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

NEWS

First sheet metal conference and show in Poland As the first event in Poland dedicated exclusively to the sheet metal sector, the BLECHbusiness conference and exhibition is generating considerable interest both in Poland and the region, according to organiser Mack Brooks Exhibitions Limited. The event takes place 27-29 November at Warsaw’s modern EXPO XXI International Centre. Conference content is organised by the European Research Association for Sheet Metal Working and comprises three days of the latest papers from eminent academics, engineers and specialists. A full programme will be published at www.blechbusiness.com in late September. The site already has an exhibitor list. Also available is a PDF BLECHbusiness market report, which highlights that Poland’s sheet

metal industry is booming. Rapid growth of the country’s industrial output, manufacturing base and infrastructure means that major consumers of sheet metal and related products are continuing to increase their demand. In the automotive sector, approximately 100 million euros has been invested in Poland in the last 12 to 18 months alone. There are 27 major vehicle manufacturers and automotive suppliers in the country. Recently General Motors has said that much of the production from its Astra plant in Belgium will be moved to Poland. Construction and civil engineering is booming, too, with 100 million euros of construction work in the first half of 2007, and the subcontract mechanical engineering industry has grown to the point where it is supplying sheet metal components against highly competitive eastern European countries. Polish industrial output is forecast to rise by between 11 and 14% during 2007.

AFS wins exporter award Alcoa Fastening Systems Ltd (AFS) won the exporter of the year award at a recent business awards evening, hosted by Shropshire Chamber of Commerce and the Shropshire Star newspaper. The seventh annual ceremony, held at Telford International Centre, was attended by 600 people representing a cross section of businesses from the English county of Shropshire. Commenting on the achievement, operations director Marcus Lokier, pictured with Phil Challlinor, head of international trade at UKTI (UK Trade & Investment), said: “We are delighted with this award which represents how AFS has evolved from when we were first established.”

HCL ties up new corporate ID HCL Fasteners, the company responsible for unleashing the Herbie Clip, Ezclik plastic hose clamps, Ezybond Earth Clamp, Smart Band and Smart Tie offshore banding systems on to the world-wide marketplace, has revamped its image. The re-branding exercise, carefully undertaken over several months, has resulted in a new website and logotype. Peter Coles, sales director at HCL, comments: "The plastic clamping market is our business. We therefore felt the need to change our company logo to reflect this, while getting away from any connotations involving nuts, bolts and screws, as we've never been a wholesale supplier of those.” "With this in mind, the new strap line beneath our logo is now 'plastic clamping solutions' which, we believe, conveys the key skills and core activity of HCL." Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

Leap into the world of high level technology! See on page 79

NEWS

Unmissable at Stuttgart

So says Brighton Best European managing director, Ray Southam. What is it? “Brighton Best’s unique inflatable tower and globes,” he says. “Also new for this year will be our 20 brochure display area, where customer can take brochures that are relevant to their product needs.”

Tuflok sockets and Metric fine pitch sockets. The latest range of key sets is also featured with the new Poly sleeve range and a hot off the press brochure for hexagon loose keys in both 6150 Chrome vanadium and 8650 Chrome nickel Molybdenum. The complete range of unified hexagon bolt brochures will be on display, SAE5 (8.8), SAE8 (10.9) and the new L9® (12.9) to complete the range. All new brochures display technical information for the product, the range, weights and pack quantities.

There are four standard socket screw brochures covering the complete range of threads from Whitworth BSF and BA through American and British Unified threads to Metric. In addition, there are new brochures for Metric flange buttons, Metric

“Brighton Best continues to support Fastener Fair from its first outing in the UK back in the 1990’s to its expansion through Maastricht to Stuttgart,” says Ray. “The show is a firm fixture in Brighton’s European development.”

It was a landmark at Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2005 – for 2007 visitors it will be taller, fatter and more colourful than before.

Visit Stuttgart and end up in Shanghai! Harrison & Clough Europe will this year make its debut at Fastener Fair Stuttgart and would like to invite you to join them on their stand, H45/H50, to find out what they can offer your business. Plus every visitor will be entered into a draw for a chance to win a holiday for two to Shanghai.

the supply of standard parts, to the supply of parts to a customer’s own requirements, through to the supply of fasteners and other industrial components direct from China through Qewitco.

The theme of the stand will be to introduce the Harrison & Clough Europe group of companies - Harrison & Clough Ltd, BCF Ltd, Tite-Fix Ltd and Qewitco.

Through its Far Eastern company Qewitco, the group offers the merchant a unique opportunity to buy direct from the East without the usual concerns and uncertainties.

At the same time it is important that the group listens to what the trade requires from a wholesaler, particularly at this time of change and flux in the markets.

“If you are planning to be in Stuttgart please call on the Harrison & Clough Europe stand, you will be very welcome and you never know, you might just end up in Shanghai …..or if you are really lucky, a long weekend in Keighley!”

Harrison & Clough Europe remains a family owned and managed business serving only the merchant trade with a commitment to stock, service and quality.

Each of the companies has its own area of fastener expertise, from

Anniversary for Baker & Finnemore Baker & Finnemore has celebrated a successful first year since the management buyout in 2006. In the past 12 months, the business has seen a significant growth in its export

markets, predominantly with its Starlock push-on fastener range. Baker & Finnemore’s in-house tool design and manufacture has also attributed to being a major factor in winning new business. Derek Sharp, managing director, said: “We’ve had a fantastic 12 months since the

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

MBO but we are not about to slow down. We have set the bar very high. Our continued innovation, competitiveness and efficiency means that we aim to grow our business, particularly in the custom pressings sector.”

PRELOK

www.prelok.com

PRELOK~FASTENERS are the UK licensee for the manufacture of the EJOT range of Delta-PT®, PT®, Duro-PT® and PT® type DG thread forming screws.

Delta-PT® Screw - developed for use with Thermoplastics materials, the special thread geometry of the screws allows for smaller diameters and/or shorter fasteners to be used, with no loss of torque performance. Resulting in beneficial weight and cost savings over conventional direct fixings.

PT® Screw - for use with Thermoplastics material the PT® Screw has a profiled thread design to assist plastic material flow, which reduces mating component boss bursting forces and develops high stripping torques with low installation torques.

PT® Type DG Screw - developed for use into light alloy metal components giving low installation torques with high clamp loads. Duro-PT® Screw - design incorporates a “cutting notch” that effectively removes debris that is a common problem with conventional self-tapping screws when used in Thermoset plastic materials, leading to greater stripping torques at low installation torque and reduce bursting forces. Contact PRELOK~FASTENERS for the genuine Ejot range of PT® Screws, on 01902 600153 or visit our website at www.prelok-fasteners.com PT is a registered trade mark of EJOT Verbindungstechnik GmbH & Co. KG, Bad Laasphe, Germany.

NEWS

Unveiling a change for the better at Stuttgart ! “Earnest Express Europe are proud to announce that we will be at the Fastener Fair in Stuttgart on 19th and 20th September 2007, stand number C6. When we will be unveiling a company name change and we invite you to come and celebrate with us a new dawn for American fasteners in the UK and Europe.”

Retaining a strong market position “Beneri’s story began in 1958 with a small workshop – just 100 square metres – in which three young men, by no means rich but full of enthusiasm, began a great adventure.” That is how Mr. Giampietro Bernabeo, describes the origins of a company that has subsequently built an international reputation for the production of retaining rings. The charisma and vision of the 76-year-old chairman of Beneri S.P.A., is credited by all in the business as the past and current example followed by all employees. Now, Mr Bernabeo’s two sons, Patrizia and Giovanni, together with an excellent team, ensure that Beneri - located in Valmadrera, north of Milano, Italy - is at the top of the retaining ring industry thanks to a commitment to quality, service and competitive prices.

The company’s main goal is to achieve ongoing improvements in order to offer a high quality product at a very competitive price. Its philosophy emphasises full cooperation with partners that share the same objectives. Beneri has always concentrated on standard metrics products and, therefore, requires very high volumes in order to achieve cost efficiencies in the production processes. Daily production currently exceeds twenty million pieces but the company management aims to increase this volume in order to be fully competitive in the global market. “The secret of our success,” says Mr Bernabeo, “is a mix of technological innovation, an excellent rappore within our organisation and a strong cooperation with our distributors. We thank our employees, our commercial partners and suppliers, and above all, our customers for their commitment to our continued success.”

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

Tel: Fax:

01384 561000 01384 411142

info@electraengineering.com www.electraengineering.com

US NEWS

by John Wolz – editor@fastenernews.com

Powers Fasteners to be only firm indicted for Big Dig collapse Powers Fasteners Inc. appears to be the only company that will be indicted for the 2006 fatal ceiling collapse in Boston's Big Dig tunnel. Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley has reportedly concluded that only Powers and the two companies that managed the Big Dig - Bechtel Co. and Parsons Brinckerhoff Quade & Douglas were criminally negligent, the Boston Globe reports. Coakley has ruled out further indictments "unless settlement talks with (Bechtel and Parsons) break down," according to the Globe. The two large firms are reportedly hammering out details of a settlement in excess of $300 million. Powers Fasteners, which supplied the epoxy blamed in the July 2006 fatal tunnel collapse, was indicted for one count of involuntary manslaughter. "The only reason that our company has been indicted is that unlike others implicated in this tragedy, we don't have enough money to buy our way out," Powers Fasteners president Jeffrey Powers stated after the indictment was announced. According to the Globe, Powers Fasteners offered $8 million to settle the case before the charge was announced, but the "offer

did not satisfy Coakley's demand that any settlement be painful," the Globe reports. Powers reportedly carries about $26 million worth of professional liability insurance. "Coakley had wanted Powers to pay something out-of-pocket that was big enough to show contrition," according to the Globe. If confirmed, these developments would appear to back Jeffrey Powers' claim that his comparatively small company lacked the financial clout to buy its way out of legal trouble. Attorneys for Powers Fasteners have asked that Coakley and her assistant prosecutors be recused from the case due to an "irreconcilable conflict of interest." Powers Fasteners claims that "while the Attorney General was making the determination to criminally charge Powers, she has been seeking to advance the Commonwealths ability to collect as much money as possible from Powers and others - to cover the significant cost overruns caused at least in part by the states own mismanagement of the Big Dig."

Powers, the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority, and several other companies also face a wrongful death lawsuit by the family, as well as a civil suit filed by the state. By singling out Powers Fasteners, Coakley's assessment of the case contradicts a National Transportation Safety Board report that spread broad blame for the ceiling collapse. The NTSB investigation found that designers and construction crews had not considered that the epoxy holding support anchors could pull away. The NTSB also specifically faulted ceiling designer Gannett Fleming for failing to stipulate which kind of epoxy to use during installation. As the Globe summarized, Coakley now faces a public relations challenge "to convince the public that Powers is the most culpable firm in the tragedy and uniquely deserving of criminal prosecution." Arraignment is scheduled for September 5.

Powers Fasteners: a brief history Brewster, NY-based Powers Fasteners is a 75-year-old family-owned business with annual sales of about $40 million and 275 employees in the U.S. Jeffrey Powers is president. His father, Frederic Booth Powers Jr., the retired chairman and president of Powers Fasteners Inc., died December 20, 2005, at the age of 72.

In 1995 the business name was changed to Powers Fasteners Inc. as part of international expansion plans and facilities were opened in Australia, New Zealand, Europe and Southeast Asia.

Frederic Booth Powers Jr. started in the fastener industry in 1958 with the Rawlplug Co., a company founded by his father. Under Frederic Powers the company expanded in construction and plant maintenance markets and added manufacturing facilities in Michigan, Indianapolis and Chicago; acquired a Canadian firm; and established 28 regional sales locations.

Powers Fasteners supplies mechanical and adhesive anchors, roofing fasteners, gas-technology tools and powder actuated fastening systems, serving professional construction and plant maintenance markets. Powers has manufacturing facilities in Michigan, along with 27 U.S. warehouses and four international locations.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

Stockist & Distributor of Rolled Thread Machine Screws Complete Range of Metric Threads in All Heads Zinc Plated Offered Ex-stock with Next Day Delivery Imperial Threads & Non-standards also within the Range or can be Manufactured Specially

Machine Screws Limited Unit 5, Kingfisher Enterprise Park, Arthur Street, Redditch, Worcestershire, B98 8LG

ajm@machinescrews.wanadoo.co.uk

US NEWS

by John Wolz – editor@fastenernews.com

NTSB report published One year after the accident the National Transportation Safety Board published its Highway Accident Report NTSB/HAR-07/02 ‘Ceiling Collapse in the Interstate 90 Connector Tunnel Boston, Massachusetts, July 10, 2006’. The full report can be downloaded from www.ntsb.gov The following is extracted from the report’s Executive Summary: About 11:01p.m. on Monday, July 10, 2006, as a 1991 Buick car approached the end of Boston’s Interstate 90 connector tunnel, a section of the tunnel’s suspended concrete ceiling became detached from the tunnel roof and fell onto the vehicle. About 26 tons of concrete and associated suspension hardware fell onto the vehicle and the roadway. The driver’s wife was fatally injured; the driver escaped with minor injuries. The NTSB determines that the probable cause of the ceiling collapse was the use of an epoxy anchor adhesive with poor creep resistance; that is, an epoxy formulation that was not capable of sustaining longterm loads. Over time, the epoxy deformed and fractured until several ceiling support anchors pulled free and allowed a portion of the ceiling to collapse. Use of an inappropriate epoxy formulation resulted from the failure of Gannett Fleming, Inc. (tunnel designer), and Bechtel/Parsons Brinckerhoff (project

managers) to identify potential creep in the anchor adhesive as a critical long-term failure mode and to account for possible anchor creep in the design, specifications, and approval process for the epoxy anchors used in the tunnel. The use of an inappropriate epoxy formulation also resulted from a general lack of understanding and knowledge in the construction community about creep in adhesive anchoring systems. In addition Powers Fasteners, Inc. failed to provide the Central Artery/Tunnel project with sufficiently complete, accurate, and detailed information about the suitability of the company’s Fast Set epoxy for sustaining long-term tensile loads. Contributing to the accident was the failure of Powers Fasteners, Inc., to determine that the anchor displacement that was found in the tunnel in 1999 was a result of anchor creep due to the use of the company’s Power-Fast Fast Set epoxy, which was known by the company to have poor long-term load characteristics. Also contributing to the accident was the failure of Modern Continental Construction

Company, Inc., and Bechtel/Parsons Brinckerhoff, subsequent to the 1999 anchor displacement, to continue to monitor anchor performance in light of the uncertainty as to the cause of the failures. The Massachusetts Turnpike Authority also contributed to the accident by failing to implement a timely tunnel inspection program that would likely have revealed the ongoing anchor creep in time to correct the deficiencies before an accident occurred. The safety issues identified during this investigation are as follows: • Insufficient understanding among designers and builders of the nature of adhesive anchoring systems; • Lack of standards for the testing of adhesive anchors in sustained tensile-load applications; • Inadequate regulatory requirements for tunnel inspections; • Lack of national standards for the design of tunnel finishes

Acument launches Avdel North America with Szuba at helm Acument Global Technologies formed Avdel North America, an independent business unit that plans to strengthen ties, through key distributors, of its blind fastening products for automotive, industrial, and electronic markets. "Distributors are the backbone of our business," stated Phil Szuba, director and general manager of Sterling Heights, MI-based Avdel North America. "Our success is based on their success, and we will support them with a brand-driven strategy that delivers costeffective assembly solutions, competitive pricing, and marketing communications support."

In addition Avdel named Bob DeVoe as director of sales and marketing. Avdel has a strong brand presence in blind fastening systems, one that can be traced to the introduction of its first aerospace fastener more than 70 years ago. "As a new and autonomous business unit, we will build on that heritage by reintroducing ourselves to North American markets and revitalizing our product brands," Szuba noted. Avdel will relaunch Avseal II, a compression sealing system for automotive engines and drivetrains that has achieved success in European truck markets. Also scheduled for reintroductions are Avdelok high-strength lockbolt, Rivscrew PL for plastics, and Fastriv pierce riveting. Avdel plans to unveil new products over the next two years.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

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RUSSIAN & CIS NEWS by Elena Semak, Editor-in-Chief, Metiz Magazine, Ukraine, www.metiz-info.com.ua

MMK-METIZ launches new heat treatment line The original contract was signed with the Italian company Automation Service in November 2004 and the line was installed and commissioned during 2006.

The self tapping and drywall screws are cold headed, heat treated and finished by phosphate coating or electrolytic zinc-plating. Coldheading and thread rolling equipment, with an annual capacity of 1,100 tonnes, was purchased from WAFIOS and HILGELAND in 2006. Coating lines were sourced from Automation Service for both electrolytic zinc-plating and phosphating.

It is part of a complete investment program for the production of self-tapping and drywall screws, and high-strength bolts and nuts up to 12mm diameter. The line nitrocarburizes self-tapping screws to a case depth up to 0.18mm, and tempers bolts, grade 8.8, 10.9 and 2.9, and nuts. Treatment of high strength fasteners is expected to reach 2,400 tonnes per year. Production capacity for heading and threading bolts and nuts up to 12mm is already established.

The development of drywall screw manufacturing was driven, primarily, by the strength of the Russian construction market and increased use of plasterboard. Self-tapping screws are widely used by the manufacturers of domestic electronics, instrument-makers, the precision machinery and automotive industries. The new heat treatment capability means MMK-METIZ can now manufacture to the same specifications as fastener makers throughout Europe.

The official launch of a new heat treatment line has taken place at the Magnitogorsk hardware of MMK-METIZ.

New spring washer machines at Orel factory The Orel factory of the Severstal-metiz has installed three new automatic coiling machines to manufacture spring washers. Two more machines were scheduled for delivery during July and August. The new equipment allows production of spring washers with diameters from 6 to 8mm, corresponding to the national standard. Productivity is three times better than previous equipment.

“The automatic washer-coiling machines are purchased under the investment program of the Severstal-metiz company, aimed at upgrading the level of production equipment, achieving cost reduction, and creating the opportunity to develop new types of production,” said Sergey Tatenko, executive director of the Orel factory. “This will give us the opportunity to maximise productivity, to manufacture high-quality products demanded by the market, to be able to meet competition and to grow.”

Soldi & Co builds regional logistic center In Spring 2008 trading company Soldi & Co plans to open a regional logistic centre in Dnipropetrovsk. Dnipropetrovsk is Ukraine’s third largest city, located on the River Dnieper in the southeast of the country. The new centre will be responsible for servicing customers in Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, Kharkiv, Zaporozhje and Simferopol regions. The centre will include a retail store, a laboratory,

offices and a 3,500m2 warehouse with 7,500 tonnes fastener capacity. According to Oleg Derstuganov, director of subsidiary firm Soldi-Dnepr, opening the regional center will give the company an opportunity to serve clients much more effectively, as well as to analyse the quality of incoming goods. Sales of a wide range of products, including engineering, construction and general purpose fasteners, in the Dnipropetrovsk region is planned to achieve 12-13 million hryvna (1.8 – 3 million euros) per year.

Three years on: Severstal-metiz looks forward In the three years since its formation the Severstalmetiz group has expanded and established itself as an international player. Nowadays it is one of the biggest companies in Europe and CIS based on volume output. “In the strict competitive conditions this is not enough”, thinks CEO, Olga Naumova. “Other approaches are necessary to be effective in comparison with leading European manufacturers”. These new approaches were the topic of discussion at a group directors meeting in mid June at Cherepovets. The general strategy agreed was to improve profitability per ton through production of higher added value

products. Severstal-metiz is deliberately decreasing sales of low-profit production, primarily in Europe and CIS and focusing on the development of its “domestic” markets - Russia, Ukraine and Great Britain. Emphasis is also placed on an expanding presence in specific product segments. Efficiency improvements are planned through reorganisation of internal processes: more specialisation, optimising infrastructure and business processes, and introducing lean manufacturing concepts. “In a five-year perspective we should build an effective, client oriented business, which will be able not only to compete head-tohead with the leading European companies, but will also be attractive for its personnel”, Olga Naumova stressed.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

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RUSSIAN NEWS

Accessing the Russian market by Alexander Ostashov, Editor, Fasteners, Adhesive, Tools and… Magazine. www.fastinfo.ru

Over the last two years we have communicated with companies from many different countries – a dialogue started at Fastener Fair Stuttgart, 2005. Here I would like to share some thoughts on common questions that arise in establishing contacts with Russian businessmen. The Russian market has substantial attraction for the delivery of fasteners and tools. The presence of foreign firms grows. The sales volumes of Hilti and Würth increase, though their products are not cheap. Koelner has built a factory near Saint Petersburg. Fischer has opened its own office in Moscow this year. Many Russian companies now import standard construction fasteners direct from Asia as much as from Europe. The construction market represents a major opportunity because market activity is so intense and Russian manufacturers produce only the simple types of building fasteners. More specialised fastener products represent an important area of opportunity. Only a few kinds are produced by Russian enterprises – for

example, there is no anchor manufacturing in Russia. However, the possibilities for foreign specialised fasteners are poorly presented in Russia and fastener consumers are informed only to a small degree. The designer or construction engineer needs to better understand the advantages of this or that fastener. Therefore the question “what are the advantages of this fastener in application?” remains largely without answer. In many cases the question is not even asked because preference is still given to variants prescribed for decades. The director of one construction engineering firm admitted that they had not risked the use of chemical anchors in an important project, and used through bolts instead. Overcoming this deficiency of technical information is one of the paramount factors in developing sales of new fixing elements into Russia. Trading firms tend to stay on the well-traveled roads, offering established fastener types. Trailblazers in the fastener market are rare. However, they do exist and some are definitely establishing their own sales roads in Russia. So, what barriers are there in establishing contacts with Russian businessmen? There are now several Russian businesses actively supplying fasteners imported from

different countries. Those with two or three years’ operational experience with foreign sources have little difficulty establishing new contacts. For the less experienced, wishing to expand their range and enter new business areas, it is more difficult. There are obstacles of a purely technological character. For example the connection (e-mail is now most commonly used) does not always work reliably. If possible, it is also better to duplicate messages through different communication channels. A fax or even a letter is a useful back up to your email. The principal causes of barriers, though, are connected to the human factor. First of all, there is a real language barrier. For many years English and German has been taught in Russian high schools. But to start speaking in it? – that is uneasy to our personality. The psychological barrier is great – the fear of being misunderstood, of getting things wrong is very real. This is an inherent quality in many of us, because of our traditional authoritative upbringing. Russians are also very vigilant about information reaching competitors. The adjustment from the structured functioning of Russian enterprises to becoming

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

contenders in a competitive field has been an uncomfortable one. Recently one representative of a German company told me how he recognised this jealous guarding of their business by some Russian directors, and said how important it was to take it into account when organising discussions at exhibitions. Therefore, do take into account some Russian characteristics when we communicate with you. We carried out surveys of our magazine readers interested in developing international contacts, which revealed situations where enquiries remained without answers. To my mind this reflects insufficient persistence on the part of some of our businessmen to expand their work on the international scene. On the other hand, what does it say about your desire to work with Russian firms? How do you prepare for an exhibition in Russia or when you plan to advertise to find partners in Russia? It would be very good, to include Russian text with including details of your expectations from potential partners and a list of applications or projects in which your products have successfully been applied. These things can promote the removal of barriers and make for a more effective search for Russian partners.

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ASIAN NEWS

The following news stories are provided by Chinafastener, as part of a news exchange agreement. Translation and editing is by Editor, Alice Hu. www.chinafastener.info

Chinese Fasteners will set sail from China International Fastener Centre Located in the economic center of the Yangtze Delta, Haiyan is rapidly rising as the hometown of China fasteners. It is surrounded by Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou and Ningbo, the four economic powers along the Yangtze Delta. Currently, Haiyan has more than 1,500 fastener manufacturers and related companies. 14,000 types of products are involved, such as general standard fasteners, nuts, screws, hightensile bolts. Haiyan accounts for 50% of the nut exports from Zhejiang Province, and its output and export of long bolts are the largest in China. In 2006, the output of standard fasteners in Haiyan reached one million tons, with 70% for export. The day before the much respected international Fastener Fair, Stuttgart the People’s Government of Haiyan County has sponsored a special presentation at Messe Congress Centrum B Raum XI, Stuttgart Exhibition Center, Germany. The China · Haiyan— 07’ Global Largest Fasteners Purchasing Center Investment Presentation, will begin at 15:00 pm, September 18, 2007. This event is to present the major investment opportunities that exist in relation to this exciting development for the world fastener market.

After their survey, the leaders showed appreciation for its development as an excellent project equipped with three advantages—right time, right place and unity. During the interview, Mr. Cai Zhiyuan, president of Ganglong Group (a key investor), interpreted their "right time, right place and unity" slogan as follows: Right time In recent years, the fastener industry, no matter in China or across the world, has developed at a rapid pace. As the country with the fastest development, the Chinese fastener industry maintains a rapid growth rate of 20% to 30% every year. By 2006, the

number of China fastener enterprises had reached 7,000 and the output was up to 4.3 million tons. It is estimated that by the end of 2010, the output of China fasteners will have reached over 6 million tons. The three biggest fastener markets, including North America, Western Europe and Asia, take up 95% of the world’s total fastener demand. It is anticipated that the total fastener demand in the three biggest markets will have exceeded US$ 50 billion by 2009! Right place Haiyan is a famous "China fastener city". It has more than 1,500 fastener manufacturers and related enterprises, with

To find out the latest news of CIFC, a ChinaFastener reporter visited Haiyan recently. On the same day, the minister and deputy minister of Jiaxing Municipal Publicity Department, along with the deputy secretary of Haiyan County Party Committee, also visiting CIFC.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

over 14,000 kinds of products. The products are exported to over 60 countries and regions from Asia, Europe, America, etc. Along with the longest across-sea bridge in the world (Hangzhou Bay Bridge opens to traffic in 2008) Haiyan will become the center of the Hangzhou Bay-Rim region, which includes Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Ningbo and Jiaxing. From Haiyan, it takes only one hour to Hangzhou, Suzhou, Shanghai and Ningbo. Meanwhile, Haiyan has a comprehensive dock with an annual handling capacity of 1.2 million tons of products, an inland waterway and a national first-class port—Zhapu Port, laying an export foundation for the Haiyan fastener industry.

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ASIAN NEWS

Unity As one of the three main projects of Haiyan in 2007, CIFC has actual preferential policies. The People's Government of Haiyan County offers a supporting policy of "2 years' rent free, 3 years' tax refund” for the enterprises that enter CIFC. In 2007, the government of Haiyan County layouts lands for fastener use, in order to help the enterprises solve problems in storage and factory building. So right time, right place and unity smoothes the process of CIFC investment. So far, nearly 1,000 famous fastener enterprises in China have committed to CIFC, such as Gem-Year, Jiaxing Brother, Ningbo Yonggang, Ningbo East Port, Ningbo Anchor, Wenzhou Yonggu, Wenzhou Excellence. The American Morgan Group, as well as purchasing organizations from Spain, Canada have also settled in CIFC. Yuanda invests in advanced multi-die nutmaker Wenzhou Yuanda Standard Components Mfg. Co., Ltd., located in Wenzhou is an ISO 9001:2000 certified member of the China General Machine Components Industry Association. Recently it added to the advanced manufacturing equipment it operates with a RMB 1.5 million investment. The Tawainese made 27B cold header went into operation in July. Mr Chen, manager at Yuanda, told Chinafastener that the machine will mainly be used to produce automotive nut products, for supply to Europe, America, Taiwan and Japan. Mr Chen believed this investment in top technology would be significant in

increasing value added output, which the recent draw back on export rebates made an essential strategy for his business. Jishiu County attracts back fastener producers In recent years the upgrade and development of the Wenzhou Ecological Park has resulted in over 500 standard fastener enterprises relocating to other areas. Recognising this trend Jishui County has worked with the management committee of the Ecological Park and signed a collaboration agreement to encourage the return of the industry. With an investment of RMB 1 billion from the Zhejiang International Trade Center, a standard fastener project has now been formally settled in Jishui of Jiangxi Province, occupying 75 million square metres, and having an annual output capacity of 150,000 tons. Nail exports via Tianjin Port increase January to June According to statistics from Tianjin Customs, January to June 2007, exports of steel nails via Tianjin Port increased by 6.3% to 280,000 tons while export value increased by 13.5% to US$ 190 million. The average export price of US$ 663.2 per ton, increased by 6.9%. 59.6% of exports were to the United States, although the 167,000 tons was 17.7% down on 2006 same period. 41% of nail exports were from privately owned enterprises. Cost advantage continues to be the main factor driving export growth of steel nails, although China has put in place a series of control policies on steel products exports since the beginning of the year. The

transfer of increased steel supply to domestic producers, though, has meant a fall in the costs of steel nails, which combined with low labour and resource costs means overall costs of manufacturing remain low.

Economic Development Zone. Manufacturers from Germany, Spain and France are understood to be negotiating for space in the zone and Shenyang expects further automotive parts investment.

Würth breaks ground for new Shenyang production centre

Zhejiang Qifeng looks for foreign investment

Würth Group held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Würth Industrial Park and the production halls of Arnold Fasteners (Shenyang) Co., Ltd. in the Shenyang European Union Economic Development Zone. It is the second biggest investment project by a German enterprise in Shenyang after BMW. Würth Group plans to build a 30-hectare industrial park. Arnold Fasteners (Shenyang) Co., Ltd., a Würth subsidiary, will be the first to enter. Its production halls, technical buildings and administration building cover an area of 13 hectares, and further manufacturing companies of the Würth Group are expected to be built gradually on the remaining 17 hectares. The production halls and the buildings of Arnold Fastener (Shenyang) will be completed in 3 years. Annual output is expected to reach 11 billion pieces of finished products from October 2008 (first stage completion), worth a total of RMB 10 billion. 70% of the products will be supplied to automotive manufacturers, mainly in China with a small proportion for export. Würth will also build a solar energy cell production base and logistic center in Shenyang, locating its Chinese headquarter in Shenyang-European Union

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

Zhejiang Qifeng Hardware Make Co., Ltd., a hardware manufacturer of over ten years of experience, is located in Haiyan County of Zhejiang Province. The company produces a varied fasteners and special parts, 50% of which are exported to foreign markets. General manager, Chen Yuezhong, says Qifeng features a wide range of specifications and a full product range. Diameters range from M6 to M52 and the maximum length can reach 1500mm. "We have a variety of equipment, including cold forging, hot forging, thread cutting and, tapping," Mr. Chen said. He also noted that their products had a wide application range. Qifeng moved to its new factory in February and has introduced new multi-stage cold headers taking its equipment count to over 100. Investment in the new factory has so far totaled RMB15 million. The new factory covers an area of 40 Mu (more than 26,000 square metres), 8 times that of the old one. When asked about the next plan, Mr. Chen said Qifeng was looking to diversify and hoped to attract foreign investors to cooperate with it, as the new factory has lots of available space.

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COVER STORY

Getting better to stay good: Reyher builds on its logistics strengths

In the fastener business there are many roads that lead to success. For Reyher customers, they all lead to Hamburg! The Hamburg company is over 100 years old and has specialised in this market segment for almost 60 years. The emphasis is on expertise and product variety…concentrated in one location. Reyher meets the constantly rising demands of the market through continual investment in the millions – so that its logistics services perform optimally. And their customers profit from it. The heart of Reyher’s world is in Hamburg. More than 110,000 different items are in stock here. Reyher has the fastener industry’s broadest and deepest assortment in one location. Its sophisticated and yet sleek logistics system cannot be compared to any other in Europe. It guarantees the efficient delivery of items from the remotest shelf in the warehouse to dispatch and on to the merchant who commissioned them, and it is constantly being expanded.

reliability. 99% of Reyher stock items are always available. These days this is not always the case for every supplier. In an industry where goods consist almost exclusively of metal and overwhelmingly of steel, full stocks – due in particular to the raw material hunger of the Chinese market – are no longer to be taken for granted, but Reyher is and remains a reliable partner.

Consistent modernisation At the beginning of 2007, by using a huge crane to reach through the roof of the warehouse, tonnes of out-dated equipment were lifted out of Reyher’s Hall 4. At the same time this hall was completely revamped and, like all the other halls at Reyher, brought up to date. The in-house logistics system now runs completely on the goods direct principle. This ensures greater efficiency and rapid, secure delivery to the customer. One delivery, numerous advantages Customers value Reyher’s central storage depot strategy for two reasons. They usually receive their order in only one delivery and, in each case it is processed at optimum speed and with maximum Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

41 Grey Ferraris that travel at 0.5 m/s A total volume of around 800 pallets of material is processed in one hour in the Reyher warehouses. An unending stream of items fill the grey plastic boxes that roll along conveyors and shuttle through a number of stations from shelves to dispatch. Their average

speed is 0.5 m/s. For the layman this might not mean much, but the logistics expert knows this is Formula 1 peak performance. For Reyher it’s everyday traffic flow.

Making Internet ordering comfortable The Internet as a sales platform is practically taken for granted in the industry these days, but even here Reyher stands apart from its competitors with the numerous comfort options it offers. At the beginning of 2007, Reyher renovated RIO (Reyher Internet Order), its Internet shop, by introducing a catalogue structure and creating the ability for customers to speedily enter their own item numbers - among other supportive facilities. With RIO Scan, Kanban users can immediately print their own bar code labels from RIO, as well as quickly and efficiently ensuring optimum stock levels. In addition there is a multiplicity of electronic order possibilities that are a benchmark for the industry. All these things make Reyher not only one of the best companies in its field but also, perhaps, the customer-friendliest partner for C-part management.

Everything under control Information and control are crucial at any speed. Even after the goods have left the premises Reyher can determine their location through the Internet by using track and trace. A sophisticated dispatch system, with run time checking, ensures the path of the goods is transparent. It’s not all technology, though. Friendly customer care personnel are always available to provide all available information. A further aspect of control concerns the screws and fasteners themselves. Reyher was one of the first in the industry to use its own testing equipment. Today it implements a mix ranging from supplier audits, a strict assessment of supplier systems and testing of incoming goods as well as Reyher’s own testing laboratory, which ensures reliability and excellent product quality.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

INSIGHT

Bringing wholesaling into sharp focus Owlett-Jaton, Stone, United Kingdom

The Owlett and Jaton names have been stalwarts in the UK fastener and construction merchant supply markets for decades. In 1997 Owlett’s was acquired by the Decco Group. The acquisition of Jaton followed the next year. Initially the merging of the two businesses proved a less than comfortable experience. In the last four years, though, Owlett-Jaton has quietly and effectively secured its position as the largest fastener wholesaling operation in the UK. Today, Owlett-Jaton operates from its large warehouse and distribution centre, with head office attached, at Stone, near Stoke-onTrent. In March this year a 3,000 square metre warehouse extension was opened and rapidly filled with product, reflecting both growth and commitment to range. The company also has a 3,000 square metre warehouse at Nailsea, near Bristol, which is dedicated to its JCP Construction Products division and logistic support to a major national account. 360 people are employed in the company, with 250 based at Stone. The company wholesales around 20,000 product items, delivering 80% of orders to UK fastener distributors and builders merchants next day. Several hundred pallets of product are cleared through the goods-in operation at one end of the long Stone warehouse every day, with a similar volume picked and loaded

onto ten double-deck trailers at the other end. From here the orders are freighted overnight to ten hubs, operated by CEVA Logistics, and loaded onto a fleet of local delivery vehicles. The change from owned fleet to the CEVA relationship occured four years ago, mainly to achieve greater delivery capacity and flexibility. The very personal relationship between driver and customer, though, is retained – Owlett-Jaton deliveries are made entirely on dedicated vehicles. Relationship with customers was also a key factor in the retention of local sales offices across the UK – at Elland, Milton Keynes, Swindon and Dartford – in addition to that at Stone. While inventory was drawn back to the central operation several years ago, to improve delivery efficiency and availability, local contact remains a crucial element in the Owlett-Jaton ethos. In all, the company employs 75 telephone sales people. Real emphasis is placed on a recruitment process that consciously seeks people with the intellect, the ability to be articulate, and the personality to work effectively with a broad spectrum of customers. These innate abilities are further developed through in-house product training. It all reflects the continued importance of this human interface with the customer. Although Owlett-Jaton’s information technology department is currently implementing an online ordering system for its customers, the majority of orders are still taken by phone. “Most of our customers want to have a sensible

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

conversation,” says commercial director, Neil Jackson, “and to go away from that conversation confident of good availability and a competitive price.” As well as regional specialisation Owlett-Jaton dedicates a number of internal sales people to product specific teams, one example is stainless steel, and to key major accounts. When you have two directors that can trace their career to the 1970s when Jaton was a small ironmongery shop in nearby Stoke, it’s not really surprising that the operation as a whole has a high proportion of longstanding employees, retaining a crucial level of experience and knowledge in the business. It’s said that if you find the photograph of the 1980 Jaton football team you can still recognise a good half of the faces as you walk around Stone. OwlettJaton is also an increasing rarity in its continued investment in knowledgeable and active field sales personnel. Step away from the detail for a moment and the Owlett-Jaton business structures remarkably neatly. 50% of sales derive from the traditional Jaton business, supplying UK and Irish fastener distributors, predominantly on a next day basis. 25% of sales come from the Owlett heritage of servicing similar day-to-day requirements for independent builders’ merchants. The remaining quarter is national account business, much of it built on longstanding and close working relationships. It is business that often also reflects these national customers preference to P44

INSIGHT

avoid handling ‘ugly’ products – low value,

high unit weight and variable demand – through their own distribution centres. Instead Owlett-Jaton handles the products from Asian manufacturing source, through packaging, to final branch delivery. The ‘ugly’ product issue characterises an interdependency between it and its customers that is at the core of the Owlett-Jaton business. The UK fastener market is still largely populated by free-thinking, independent traders – the result, originally, of the demise of the regimented GKN market control in the 1970s, and the subsequent ‘spinoff’ of knowledgeable fastener people needing to earn a living in the only market they knew. Since 1980, when Jaton eschewed direct ironmongery and counter sales and focused exclusively on wholesale supply to distributors, the business has been moulded by that interdependence. It explains the breadth of range, and also a continued commitment to depth of inventory, which allows Jaton to respond to short-range, high volume demands for a single item. It also explains a pick, pack and deliver mechanism that has been refined to ensure early next day delivery to distributors who generally only hold a limited inventory range. It is also at the root of the emphasis placed on skilled sales office people with the ability to negotiate pricing to meet day-to-day variations in volume and needs - and the absence of electronic call-centre technology to complicate that contact. Longstanding relationships, and a willingness to place responsibility in the hands of those with the specialist capability, are equally important in a supply chain that depends substantially on Chinese manufacturing these days. Jaton has forged a strong relationship with one leading exporting agency in China over a 15 year period. Now

the relationship provides Owlett-Jaton with a dedicated operation in Shanghai, which includes a sourcing team, warehousing and a full packaging facility. In essence the Chinese operation, once entirely state-owned and now a combination of state and private ownership, provides the infrastructure and Owlett-Jaton provides the order book. The result is a partnership that has ironed out the vagaries of supply, quality and packaging; which ensures regular monitoring of factory performance and a constant look out for new product opportunities. The relationship now extends to Owlett-Jaton welcoming Chinese graduate trainees at Stone to learn about the end market for the products sourced through their own company. In Stone, Owlett-Jaton also has an in-house packaging facility, on a mezzanine floor above the goods-inwards department. A team of 15 is permanently employed, with up to another 25 contract workers involved as necessary. Here the company predominantly packs low demand volume items. It also provides an insurance policy – particularly important to some of the national accounts – against the possibility of shipment delay from the Chinese high-volume packaging plant. Two key thoughts feature regularly in discussing the Owlett-Jaton business with its people. One is ‘focus’ – in management terms, reflected in an increasingly clear definition of the business’ priorities and the means to effectively achieve them. The other is the recognition that wholesaling is a fundamentally straightforward business, which suffers all too easily from an overcomplicated approach. In the last four years the abilities and knowledge of a predominantly existing management team have been channelled into the roles and responsibilities in which they will be most

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

effective. That has brought with it the continuity benefits that come from a team of people that know and trust each other’s capabilities. Where the right expertise did not exist it has been carefully recruited and positioned – whether it was the wealth of distribution experience brought by Nick Simpson, appointed as logistics director, or the breadth of knowledge of purchasing director, John Barker. Few would gainsay that the calmly incisive management of now Owlett-Jaton chairman, Geoff Hopwood, was pivotal in creating the foundations for the company’s stability and growth. It now justifies its position as a distinct entity, alongside Decco and others within an overall UK investment portfolio, and reports directly to the US parent’s office in England. The shareholders have demonstrated a sustained belief in the UK fastener wholesaling industry and in OwlettJaton as the correct vehicle to establish and grow its share of that market. Challenges will clearly continue to be encountered – the latest, the impact of the changes in Chinese export rebates. Significantly, the strength of Owlett-Jaton’s relationship with its Chinese partner ensured continuity of shipment during a period when the Shanghai docks were log-jammed with containers. Prices inevitably are being affected, with adjustments feeding through gradually as replacement stocks arrive. Throughout, though, Owlett-Jaton has maintained focus on fulfilling the needs of a wide spectrum of UK customers.

r l e ou ica lin n ew h n Vi Tec e o u ll fu log ta

Starlock

Push on Fasteners

visit us at www.bakfin.com Baker & Finnemore Limited, 199 Newhall Street, Birmingham, B3 1SN, UK Tel: +44 (0) 121 236 2347 Fax: +44 (0) 121 236 7224 e-mail: sales@bakfin.com

Standard Listed – you know who’s best! But contact us for all the rest . . . Non-preferred Metrics – Intermediate Sizes Short and Long Lengths – Slotted Grub Screws A4/80 Bolts & Socket Caps – 6 Lobe (TX) Drive Screws Tel:

+44 (0) 117 – 972 8560

All Metal Self-Locking Nuts – Studding Connectors

Fax:

+44 (0) 117 – 972 8570

And many more . . .

Email:

sales@avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk

Online Product Guide: www.avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk

Unit 10, Riverside Business Park, St Anne’s, Bristol, BS4 4ED, UK

EXHIBITIONS

Success encourages Fastener Fair Stuttgart to move in 2009 With this year’s Fastener Fair Stuttgart opening its doors on Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 September, the organiser has announced plans to move the September/October 2009 event to the soon to be opened Messe Stuttgart trade fair centre near the international airport. “With two year to mature and complete it’s infrastructure the new messe will be a superb venue for 2009. Not only will there be much more space for the rapidly growing exhibition, but the modern halls have been specifically designed for events of just our type.” Being right by the international airport, the A8 motorway and the rapid-transit railway, the new Messe Stuttgart is ideally placed for visitors to make the most of a trip to Fastener Fair Stuttgart. And for exhibitors, it will be much quicker and easier to set up stands, as they won’t have to deal with the city centre traffic. “This move really is the best of all worlds,” says Jerry Ramsdale, “and people can choose to stay at one of the airport hotels or in the beautiful city centre, which is just 20 minutes away by S-Bahn.” Explaining the reasons for the move, Jerry Ramsdale continued: “The show has more than doubled in size and in the last few days before this year’s event we have had to turn away some companies that didn’t book early enough. The new halls have over 105,000 m2 of exhibition space, which will allow us to grow and ensure that the event continues to meet the needs of all exhibitors and visitors. “We never had any doubt about staying in Stuttgart,” he continues. “We discussed the matter with key exhibitors and visitors, and the consensus was that Stuttgart truly is ideally placed slap-bang in the middle of Europe’s industrial heartlands, with incredibly easy access for visitors from both East and West Europe, as well as the rest of the world.” For further information on visiting Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2007, please visit www.fastenerfair.com.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

See us on stand

4. A8 19th-20th September 2007

a perfect fit RIVQUICK ®

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B o l l h o ff F a s t e n i n g s L t d , W i l l e n h a l l W V 1 3 2 J W • Te l : 0 1 9 0 2 6 3 7 1 6 1 • w w w. b o l l h o ff . c o m / u k

FASTENER FAIR 2007 I Distributors/Wholesalers

Stuttgart Exhibitors Company

I Manufacturers I Manufacturing Technology

Stand

Bufab Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F15

Doistua SA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L20

2K polymer systems limited . . . . . .5. N22

Bulloneria Del Toce Srl . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F29

Don Quichotte . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A7

3 C srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G20

Bulte Plastics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G12

3 Marcos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K30

Bunyat Industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. C37

Dongtai City Huawei Standard Component Corporation . .5. L32

A M F . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F16

Burago Viti Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A36

Dra-Goon Fastener Inc. . . . . . . . . . .4. A40

A M R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A19

Burwood Fastener Products . . . . . .4. A23

Drawlin Industry Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . .4. E21

A T S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A13

Can Eng . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G40

Dream Tec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K17

A. Jate Steel Co., Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D46

Canatex Industrial Co., Ltd . . . . . .5.2 G14

Dresselhaus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G3

A. Sternberg GmbH . . . . . . . . .4. C15 / D12

Canning Brett . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E29

Dubai Wire FZE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D1

Accurtek Products Corp. . . . . . . . . .4. D18

Caparo Atlas Fastenings Ltd . . . . . .5. N30

Dura Fasteners Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . . .4. E31

Achilles Seibert GmbH . . . . . .4. C15 / D12

Carlo Salvi S.p.A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B44

Dynaware Industrial Inc . . . . . . . . . .4. B28

Action Can Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. C22

Carniere & Defossez . . . . . . . . . . . .5. M26

E.u.r.o. Tec GmbH

Acton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A4

Celo SA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K22

Eagle Metalware Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . . .5. L8

Adolf Pühl GmbH . . . . . . . . . .4. C15 / D12

Cetin Civata San. ve Tic. A.S. . . . . . .5.2 F8

Earnest Express Europe Ltd . . . . . . .4. C6

Advanced Global Sourcing

Chan Liang Enterprise Co., Ltd. . . .4. B33

Eastport Fastener Manufacture . . .5. J10

Ahorn Befestigungs . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B58

Chang Zhou Oread Fasteners

. . . .5. M10

Ebinghaus GmbH Co & KG . . . . . . .4. B24

Albert Pasvahl GmbH + Co. . .4. C15 / D12

Changshu Dayou Imp & Exp Co Ltd 4. A21

ECAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G41

Alex Screw Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. N15

Chaves Bilbao . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. C7

Edilon BV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B24

Alexander Paal GmbH . . . . . . . . . . .4. C20

Chemfix Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G26

EFDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J32

Alfred Ebinghaus GmbH . . . . . . . . . .4. B24

Chemofast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G19

Eldes snc di Bellotto Paolo & C. . . .5. L31

Alloy & Stainless . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G53

Chin Chun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B43

ELP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K11

Anchor Pro Sri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A45

China Fasteners

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. N17

Emek Percin ve Metal San.Tic.Ltd . .5. K31

Annibale Viterie

China Industrial Fasteners Exhibition & Puchasing Center . . . .5. K32

Engel GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. C9

China National Center for Quality Supervision and Test of Standard Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L35

Essence Method Refine . . . . . . . . .5.2 H16

. . . . . . .4. B35

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L27

Apex-Inox (Apex Stainless) . . . . . . . .4. C25 Arlem Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L18 Arma Kalip ve Yedek Parça . . . . . .5.2 G34 ARSER SPA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D27 A-Stainless International . . . . . . . . .4. E25 Asvefat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H5 ATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K6 Atlantic Man Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D44 Atotech Deutschland . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F50 Auxin Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H24 Avdel Deutschland GmbH . . . . . . . .5. K20 Bäcker GmbH & Co. KG . . . . . . . . .5.2 H12 Bakker Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H48 Beco Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B20 Bendfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E4 Berdan Bolt&Nut Co.Ltd. . . . . . . . . .4. E10 Bever GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B4 Black Country Fasteners . . . .5.2 H45/H50 Bolt Fasteners Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H21 Boltun Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E7 Boss Precision Works . . . . . . . . . . .4. C47 Bossong SpA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G41 Bosung Metal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J12 Bralo SA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D35 Brighton-Best Socket Screws .4. B11/C10 BTS GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D25

Chong Cheng Fastener Corp. . . . . . .5.2 F6 Chu Wu Industrial Co., Ltd . . . . . . .5.2 F46 Chun Yu Works & CO., LTD. . . . . . . .4. E35 Cixi Zhencheng Machinery . . . . . . . .4.C41 Classic Metallic L.L.C. . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H1 Clinching Fasteners Co,.Ltd . . . . . . .5. N9 Clyde Fasteners Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F43 Colombo Ezio SRL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D7 Corbetta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K28 Corti Domenico Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. M3

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A24

Erich Ulrich Gmbh & Co Kg . . . . . .4. B24 ETA Fixings (UK) Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E39 Eurobolt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G15 Eurofix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E6 Europa Fastenings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D5 F I N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A37 F.lli Mauri (Ilexport) . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F20 Fa.ri International S.R.L. . . . . . . . .5.2 F12 FAR Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. C4 Fareast Metal International . . . . . .4. D26 Fast Milano Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L25 Fastbolt Distributors (UK) Ltd . . . . .4. B14

Cresent Manufacturing . . . . . . . . .5.2 G57

Fastbolt Schraubengrosshandels GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B14

CTR Carbide Dies Ltd . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H30

FASTDEV S.r.l. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L31

Da Yang Enterprise Co., Ltd. . . . . . .4. D30

Fastener & Fixing Europe . . . .5.2 G1 / G2

Dalian Pinghe(DA) Trading . . . . . . . .4. A27

Fastener 2000 GmbH . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H11

David Dorfmuller Sohne . . . . .4. D31 / E30

Fastener Fair . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G1 / G2

Dejond Cold Forming . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D19

Fastener Jamher Taiwan Inc . . . . . .4. B23

Dell’era . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H7

Fastener Technology . . . . . . . . . . . .4. C34

Deltaleigh Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E34

Fastener World Magazine . . . . . . . .4. B27

Denet Civata San AS . . . . . . .4. D39 / E38

Fasteners,Adhesives,Tools and . . . . .4. A1

Dieter Lesmeister e.K. . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F29

Fastenex SL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F9

Din Ling Corp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B49

Fasten-it . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A36

DIV d.o.o. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B45/C44

Faster Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G22

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

FASTENER FAIR 2007

Fasttec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. M17

Icon Fasteners Ltd . . . . . . . .5.2 G33 / H32

Linkwell Industry Co. Ltd. . . . . . . . .5. M24

Favit s.r.l. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F49

Il Ryung . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J14

Litmat SpA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F18

Ferdinand Gross GmbH & Co. . . . . .4. C38

Imas Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L6

LLS Lavorazioni Special . . . . . . . . . . . .tbc

Fermax Industries B.V. . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H46

IMI Industries (Suzhou) Co., Ltd. . . .4. D42

Longhwa Screw Works Co., Ltd . . . .5. N8

Filrox Industrial Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . . .4. B26

IMS Verbindungstechnik . . . . . . . . .4. D34

Lotu SA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G28

Filtomatic Fasteners SRL . . . . . . . . . .4. A5

Index - Técnicas Expansivas . . . . . .5.2 G4

M G H d.o.o. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H6

Fixi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E46

Ingramatic Tortona Srl . . . . . . . . . . .5. K12

M P F Fasteners Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D17

Fong Her Fastech Corp. . . . . . . . . . . .5 L11

Innovative Components Inc . . . . . .5.2 G52

M&W Fastener Co., Ltd. . . . . . . . . . .4. C18

Fong Yien Industrial Co., Ltd . . . . . .4. E17

Innov-X Systems, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A22

M.M.A S.R.L . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A41

Fritz Schaber GmbH Stahlstiftfabrikation . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J17

Inox Mare Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E44

Machimpex Ningbo Limited . . . . . . .4. A48

Inoxdadi SRL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B32

Manassero & C srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B30

FWU Kuang Enterprises Co., Ltd. .5.2 G16

InterWolf d.o.o. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K29

Maquinas Andrea SA . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D21

G & B Fissaggi Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J6

Italbolt Inox Service Srl . . . . . . . . . .4. A35

Marer Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. M20

G F D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B18

Italbolt Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F29

Martyn Price ETA Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E39

Ganesh Steel Industries & Fasteners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H26

ITB Import-Export

. . . . . . . . . . .5. J21

Master United Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D47

IVI Metallics Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E8

Mavita s.r.l . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L13

IWIM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J15

Max Europe GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. N18

J Newsome (Tools) Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J1

Max Mothes GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G9

J One Industry Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . . . .5. K15

M-Craft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H4

J. C. Grand Corporation . . . . . . . . . . .5. J4

Mecavit Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B34

Jari Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H23

Mectron Engineering Co., Inc. . . . .5.2 G27

JCP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G33 / H32

Metiz Magazine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. C3

Jinan High Strenght Standard Parts Co.,Ltd.

Micro Plastics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H39

General Inspection, LLC. . . . . . . . . .5. N17 Gesi Gewindesicherungs . . . . . . . . .4. B41 Giga Fastener Solutions . . . . . . . . .4. A31 GoFast Co., Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E43 ................................... GRK Europe GRK Fasteners . . . . . .4. A11 Growermetal SrL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K27 GTP Engineering Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E47 GuangHe Industry (Hongkong) Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G48 Guldner Sonderschrauben . . . . . . .4. B25 Gustoc-Titanbau GmbH . . . . . . . . . .4. B17 GWI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H25 Haiyan Huasheng Fastener Co., Ltd 5. M12 Haiyan Yuxing Nuts Co., Ltd . . . . . . .5. N7 Hanfast Int’l Industrial Co., Ltd . . . .5. M15 Hariton Machinery Co., . . . . . . . . .5.2 H17 Harrison & Clough Ltd . . . . . .5.2 H45/H50

. . . . . . . . . .5. N4

JinJiang City Runyoung Fasteners Industrial Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A38 Johnson Machine & Tool . . . . . . . . .4. B50 Joker Industrial Co., Ltd. . . . . . . . . .4. E16

MKT Metall-Kunststoff-Technik GmbH & Co KG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L15 Mols Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. N11 Mungo Befestigungstechnik AG . . . . .5. M30/N31

Kalm Befestigungssysteme . . . . . .5.2 F10

Nakashimada Engineering Works Ltd . . . . . . . . .5.2 G27

Kapurthala Ind. Corp . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F56

Nanmat Technology Co., Ltd . . . . . .4. E24

Kee Klamp GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B19

National Machinery . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G27

KFFIC(Korea Federation of Fasteners Industry Cooperatives) . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J5

Nestinox B V . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E2

Kale Makina Ltd. STI . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F17

Ningbo Anchor Fasteners Industrial Co., Ltd . . . . . .4. A46

HBV Locksystems . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K21

Kind-Auspice Industrial Co., Ltd. . .4. B16

Header Plan Co. Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E19

Ningbo Gold Ring Fitting Co . . . . . . .4. A44

HECO-Schrauben GmbH . . . . . . . . .5.2 F2

KISmart Technologies Corporation . . .5.2 H18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Heinz Soyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F28

Kobout BV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H29

Ningbo Jinpeng High Strength . . . .4. C39

Helmut Steinfels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. C30

Koelner SA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L5

Ningbo Ordam International . . . . . .5. K10

Herbert Knoke GmbH . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F35

Kohlhage Verbindungstechnik . . . .5.2 F27

Hermann Huster GmbH . . . . . . . . . .4. A42

KPF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J20

Ningbo Qunli Fastener Manufacture Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H9

Hermann Lohmann GmbH & Co. KG 5. M4

KPO Schrauben U Normteile . . . . .5.2 F34

Ningbo Toyofast Co Ltd . . . . . . . . . . .5. K8

Hilker & Partner GmbH . . . . . . . . . . .5. K5

Kundan Industries Ltd . . . . . . . . . . .4. B47

Home Soon Enterprise Co Ltd . . . . .4. E12

Kunshan Chenghe Standard . . . . . .5. L16

Ningbo Wili Precision Fasteners Co.,Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. M16

Hsien Sun Industry Co., Ltd . . . . . . .5. M8

Kuntech International Corp. . . . . . .4. C45

Hsin Chang Hardware Industrial . .4. C24

Kwantex Research Inc. . . . . . . . . . . .5. L12

Hsin Jui Hardware Enterprise

. . . .4. A43

Lakshmi Precision Screws Ltd . . . . .4. E1

Hsin Yu Screw Enterprise . . . . . . . .4. B29

Lancaster Fasteners Ltd . . . . . . . . . .4. B7

Ningbo Xinyang Weiye Import & Export Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A65

Hugo Benzing GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A8

Lecco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F20

Ningbo Yonghong Fasteners . . . . .5.2 G23

Hunter Fasteners & Tools . . . . . . .5.2 G44

Lederer GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D38

Ningbo Zhonejie Metal . . . . . . . . . .5. M13

Hurmg Yieh Machinery Industrial Co., Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B38

Liebig GmbH (Heinrich) . . . . . . . . . .4. D11

Nord Lock (UK) Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E10

Lindapter International Ltd. . . . . . . . .4. C9

Hwa Hsing Screw Industry Co., Ltd. . . .5.2 G24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Norm Civata AS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G8

Linit Exports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F42

Norma Germany GmbH . . . . . . . . .5.2 F38

Link Hardware Co.,Ltd . . . . . . . . . . .4. A40

Northern Precision Ltd . . . . . . . . . . .4. C31

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

Ningbo Jinhui Fastener Co Ltd . . . . .5. K7

Ningbo Xintai Fastener Manufacturing Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . . .5. N14 Ningbo Xinxing Fastener . . . . . . . . . .5. L9

FASTENER FAIR 2007 Nova Fastener Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . . .5. M19

Sen Chang Industrial Co., Ltd. . . . . . .4. E3

Top Screw Metal Corp. . . . . . . . . . . .4. B21

Olympic Fixing Products Ltd . . . . . .4. D22

Seoul F & D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J18

Topist Enterprise Co., Ltd. . . . . . . . .4. C36

Omnitechnick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D43

Shanghai Delon Special Rivet . . . . .4. A47

Tork Fasteners (INDIA) Pvt.Ltd . . . .5. N27

Ornit Blind Rivets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. N29

Shanghai Fanto Hardwares

. . . . . .5.2 H8

TOX - Dubel Werk . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F11

Otto Roth GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B6

Shanghai Fast-Fix Rivet . . . . . . . . . .4. B2

Trafilerie San Paolo . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A34

Owlett- Jaton . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G33 / H32

Shanghai Link Stainless Steel Rivets 4. A2

Tramev . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A34

P S M International . . . . . . . . .5.2 F5 / G6

Shanghai Metals & Minerals Imp & Exp Corp . . . . . . .5. M6

Tromboni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J28

P.TRE srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. M20 Panther T&H Industrial Co., Ltd. . .5.2 F30

Shanghai Prime Machinery Co.,Ltd., .5. K9

Uni-Protech Industrial Co., Ltd. . . .5. N19

Panzeri S.p.a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L33

Shanghai Qiangyi Fasteners Co., Ltd4. A38

PECO Special Fasteners BV . . . . . .5.2 G18

Shanghai xupu fasteners co.,ltd . .5.2 H28

Pecol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K3

Shanghai Yaqing Industry & Trade Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . .5. M5

PFITZER Verbindungstechnik . . . .5.2 H15 Pin Tai Metal Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B36 Pioneer Hardware Magazine . . . .5.2 H19R ................................... Plogsties GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H11 Prebena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. C21 Precision Technology Supplies . . . .5.2 F39 Prelok . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E29 Progressa AG Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K24 Qewito . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H45/H50 Raajratna Fasteners Pvt. Ltd. . . . . .4. E22 Rapierstar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B12 Ratnaveer Stainless Products . . . .5.2 F47 Rawlplug Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L5 Ray Fu Enterprise Co Ltd . . . . . . . . .4. E20 Reisser Schraubentechnik . . . . . . . .4. C26 Retina Systems, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .tbc Rex Fastening Systems . . . . . . . . . . .4. D4 Rexlen Corp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. C35 Reyher GmbH & Co KG . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F21 Rickert e.K. (Handelsunternehmen Meinolf) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J29

Shanghai YongXie Mechanical Parts Co. Ltd . . . . . . . .4. A25 Shin Chun Enterprise Co Ltd . . . . . .4. B42 Shin Jaan Works Co.,Ltd . . . . . . . . .5. L10 Shining Sun Fastener . . . . . . . . .5.2 H19L Sicatech

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F24

TtapDrive.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G7 Uniscrew Europe BV . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B10 Urals Precisions Alloys Plant (UZPS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L23 V.S.P. Bulloneria S.p.A . . . . . . . . . . .5. N26 Vertex Precision Industrial . . . . . . .4. D36 Vinex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J30 Vipa SPA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D8 Viraj Fasteners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K2/L1 Virtuoso Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B31

Simar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H41

Visserie Guerry S.A.N.V. . . . . . . . . . .5. N33

Simes Senco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G49

Vitex GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H40

Simpson Strong-Tie GmbH . . . . . . .5. N28

Viti Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. M22

Simtanideh Sepahan Co. . . . . . . . . . .5. J15

Vorpa Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L2

Sofasco Ind. (M) SDN. BDH . . . . . . .4. A17

VVG - Befestigungstechnik . . . . . . .5.2 F7

Som Fasteners Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H35

Wagener & Simon GmbH . . . .4. A55 / B54

SourceIT GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. N13

Wattson Fastener Group Inc. . . . . . .4. C32

Special Rivits Corp . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E26

Way In Enterprise Co., Ltd . . . . . . .5.2 G17

Specialised Fastener Products . . . .4. A51

Weighpack International BV . . . . . .4. A30

Springfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A3

Wenzhou Junhao Ind . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. C1

SPS Unbrako . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D20

Wenzhou Kangsheng Hardware Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. M14

Srubex S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E9 Stafa Holland . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J26 / K25 Stahl GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J22 Stamperia Carcano Giuseppe . . . .5.2 F29

Wenzhou Yuanda Standard . . . . . . . .4. B1 Wera Werk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. D38 Windfast Industrial Co., Ltd . . . . . . .A. B55

Right Tight Fasteners PVT Ltd . . . . .4. A20

Sunildyfas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K19

Woods & Hughes Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H2

Rivit Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F1

Suzhou Hongly Hardware Co

. . . . .4. E45

Wrentham Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G55

Roberlo S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F22

Swancor Ind Co., Ltd . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G32

Rodex Fasteners Corp . . . . . . . . . . .4. E31

System Cases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L30

Würth Industrie Service GmbH & Co. KG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J25

Rollfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G30

T R Fastenings Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G11

Rotadrill Industries b.v. . . . . . . . . .5.2 H44

T.L.M. Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B50

S T F Export Ltd . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G33 / H32

Taiwan Shan Yin International

Sacma Limbiate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K12

Taiwan Wing Fasteners Co., Ltd . . .4. A39

Sahand Poulad Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J15

Tapoo Metal Products (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. N6

Saima Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. M28 Sala Punzoni srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L4 Samjin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K13 Sansoar Engineering . . . . . . . . . . . .4. A29 Sa-ra Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. N23 Sariv srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 H20 Sater Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. L14 Schäfer + Peters GmbH

. . . .4. B15 / C14

Schröder Schrauben GmbH . .4. C15 / D12 Schürmann & Hilleke . . . . . . . . . . . .4. B5 Screwtech Industry Co., Ltd. . . . . . .4. E36

. . . .4. A17

Wuxi Qianfeng Screw Factory . . . . . . .5. L7 Wyser International Corp. . . . . . . . .4. B22 Ying Yang Hardware Co., Ltd . . . . . .4. E23 You Chun Enterprice . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J8 Youngsin Metal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. J16 Your choice Fasteners & Tools . . . . .4. E41

Tecfi S.p.a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. M11

Yow Chern Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E5

Techfast Manufacturing

. . . . . . . . . .4. D9

Yuh Chyang Hardware Industrial . . .4. B40

Tech-Fast.Com Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. C23

Yu-Tai Precision Co.,Ltd. . . . . . . . . .4. B53

Technika Zamocowan AMEX . . . . . .5. N25

Zandvoort Draadindustrie BV . . . . . .5. N2

Thelma Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. C43

Zhejiang Huantai Fastener . . . . . . .5. L22

Thiel-co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5. K12

Zhejiang Jieneng Autoparts Co., Ltd 4. A67

TI Midwood & Co Ltd . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 G36

Zhejiang Shalamei Fasteners Co., Ltd4. A2

Titan Machining Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2 F4

Zhejiang Zeen Fasteners Co.,Ltd . . .4. A63

Tite-Fix Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. C19

Zhejiang Zhapu Industrial . . . . . . . .4. A53

TLI Thomas Lage Gmbh . . . . . . . . .5.2 G50

Zyh Yin Ent. Co.,Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4. E15

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

EVENTS CALENDAR

Practical World Shanghai Where Shanghai, China • When 23/10/07-25/10/07 • Web www.koelnmesse.com What An international trade fair for the Hardware and DIY sector

MSV Brno

Elmia Sweden

Where Brno, Czech Republic When 01/10/07-05/10/07 What International engineering fair. Concentrating on news, innovations and key trends from various areas of the engineering industry Web www.bvv.cz

Where Jönköping, Sweden When 06/11/07-09/11/07 What International trade fair for subcontractors and suppliers within the engineering industry. Web www.elmia.se

PTC Asia 2007

Where Las Vegas, USA When 12/11/07-14/11/07 What Trade fair on fasteners, machinery formed parts, tooling and packaging. Web www.fastenershows.com

Where When What Web

Shanghai, China 10/10/07-13/10/07 Incorporates fastener and springs section www.ptc-asia.com

Nation Industrial Fastener Show/West

Canton Fair

MidEst Paris

Where When What Web

Where Paris, France When 13/11/07-16/11/07 What Trade fair involving subcontracting technical expertise and services for the processing of metals, plastics, electronics and electricity. Web www.midest.com

Guangzhou, China 15/10/07-20/10/07 & 25/10/07-30/10/07 China Import and Export Fair www.cantonfair.org

SAIE Bologna Where Bologna, Italy When 24/10/07-28/10/07 What Trade fair for building technology, building systems, building supplies, machines for building materials, Data Processing Installations plus much more Web www.saie.bolognafiere.it

Interbuild Where When What Web

Birmingham, UK 28/10/07-01/11/07 Trade fair concentrating on the construction industry www.interbuild.com

STAFDA’s 31st Annual Convention & Trade Show Where Nashville, TN, USA When 04/11/07-06/11/07 What Annual convention for the speciality tools and fasteners distributors association. Web www.stafda.org

BLECHbusiness Where Warsaw, Poland When 27/11/07-29/11/07 What BLECHbusiness concentrates on the sheet metal working sector. Web www.blechbusiness.com

IIHT + Fastener Show Mumbai Where Bombay, India When 17/12/07-19/12/07 What An international trade fair for the Handtool and Hardware sector Web www.iihtexpo.com

London DIY Show/Totally Tools Where London, UK When 14/01/08-16/01/08 What DIY, garden and toools show orientated to hardware and DIY retailing Web www.diyandgardenshow.com

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

EXHIBITIONS

Great for work, rest and play as Fastener Fair returns to Coventry With plans for next year’s Fastener Fair Coventry already well advanced, the event looks set to offer the best-ever combination of work, rest and play. Already famous as the meeting place for the UK and Ireland’s fastener and fixing professionals, Fastener Fair Coventry is adding new strings to its bow for the 2008 gathering, which takes place at the Ricoh Arena on Wednesday 11 and Thursday 12 June 2008. Organiser Jerry Ramsdale says: “The exhibition has been designed for exhibitors as a quick-and-easy ‘turn up, set up and do business’ event. So everything is included in the cost-effective basic package – from a turn-up-and-exhibit stand and preferential hotel rates, through to free and reduced-rate marketing opportunities in the exclusive show guide.” The ever-popular Gala Dinner will be held on the evening of Wednesday 11 June, with one of the UK’s funniest and most indemand acts, John Moloney, sure to be the highlight of the networking evening. Described by Time Out as “a powerfully funny

act”, Moloney is also the winner of the Best Live Performer award for two years running at the London Comedy Festival. Exhibitors, visitors and guests coming to Fastener Fair Coventry will also be able to enjoy The Isle at Ricoh Arena. It is not only the UK’s largest casino, but also offers five bars and three restaurants for great networking and entertaining opportunities. The tropical environment of The Isle is complemented by an amazing 35 metrehigh indoor water feature – a real ‘must see’! Ramsdale concludes: “Fastener Fair Coventry only takes place every two years, acting as the UK and Ireland’s key event for networking and doing business. Taking part is essential for any serious player in the market – if you’re not seen in 2008, you could fall off the industry’s radar and won’t get another chance to come back until 2010.”

“The exhibition has been designed for exhibitors as a quick-and-easy ‘turn up, set up and do business’ event...”

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Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

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EXHIBITIONS

2007 show expands to seven halls China International Hardware Show powered by Practical World Exhibition space for the 2007 Chinese International Hardware Show, to be held Tuesday 23 to Thursday 25 October, has increased to 80,500 square metres. The show will occupy seven halls at the Shanghai New International Expo Center, Pudong.

particularly from outside China. Visitor numbers from Europe and the US increased last year, and there were also visitor growth from elsewhere in the Asia-Pacific region, as well as from Australia, Indian and Russia. That combined to deliver a 35% growth in overseas visitors. At 12% the proportion of overseas visitors is higher than any other trade fair held in the region. The product mix of the 2007 show looks to be consistent with the trend to date. Tools companies will exceed 50% of the exhibitor numbers again and Practical World anticipates continued growth from the garden segment introduced two years ago.

The China International Hardware Show merged with Practical World Asia in 2003 and since has seen consistent annual growth. Last year the gross exhibition space was 70,000 square metres occupied by 1,600 companies from 14 countries. 149 exhibitors were from outside China. The 2006 event attracted 30,500 visitors from 72 countries. Projections for 2007 are for this to increase to 33,000. There is no doubt that the quality of the organisation is a significant driver in the growth of both exhibitors and visitors,

Certainly China represents both sides of the rails for exhibitors and visitors. Production of hardware, DIY and gardening products in China continues to grow at around 8% per year. Equally significant is the growth in domestic demand with a continued large construction project boom, as well as a buoyant property market and rapid privatisation of the real estate sector. These market forces are driving demand for machines, tools and construction materials as well as for kitchen, bathroom and houseware products. Current forecasts indicate China will have the world’s largest DIY market by 2015. Significantly, there is very strong demand growth for quality products and brands from outside China. As this magazine reported last year the jury must still be

out on whether the show will establish itself as a major venue for fasteners. Last year Chinese support for the show in this sector was spasmodic, with very few major players outside of Shanghai Prime. A number of European companies exhibited, their stands acting, quite often, as sourcing as well as sales venues, and intercepting those European customers who visited. Enthusiasm, though, was muted and there was a feeling the show had someway to go to reach a critical fastener mass. There is little evidence the fastener content will grow dramatically this year. By Practical World’s own acknowledgement it is not a sector that they have really

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

addressed yet, although there are strong indications they want to in the future. Last year the US-based Home Improvement President’s Council piloted a meet the buyer forum during the show. Initial results appear to have been positive, if limited. This year there are adaptations to the format including a seminar that will be free to Chinese suppliers to attend. An entry fee will continue to be levied for the one-to-one meetings with representatives from Leroy Merlin (France), Emil Lux (Germany), in addition to several US buying houses. Further details and preregistration can be found at www.cihs-practicalworld.com

See us on stand 4. C15/D12 19th-20th September 2007

EXHIBITIONS

New venue already setting new records For 2007 the 11th annual National Industrial Fastener Show/West moves to the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Convention Center in Las Vegas, November 12-14, 2007. The show management is already reporting record booth sales and anticipating a record attendance.

“We have already sold 780 booths to 634 companies (July 23, 2007), making this year’s event 21% larger than 2006 with four months yet to go,” says show manager, Susan A. Hurley, CEM. “We believe the expo will grow to over 800 booths and 650 companies in the massive exhibit hall by show time. People are very excited about the move to Mandalay Bay and the seamless, all-boothsin-the-same-hall floor plan”, she adds. Included in the early count are over 60 companies that were not present at the 2006 show. The Machinery and Tooling Section, a new addition to the Show, has attracted 25 companies to date. “The Mandalay Bay Convention Center lends itself to large

machinery and the exhibiting companies have a ready-made audience for their products in the many fastener manufacturers who will be exhibiting and attending. Schreck, Inc., Cerritos, California, will be exhibiting a machine and we expect more companies to follow suit”, say Jim Bannister and Mike McGuire, the Show’s General Partners. In addition to the many US fastener manufacturers in the 2007 show, exhibitors are expected from 15 other countries, including Canada, China, Germany, India, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Spain, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. The new venue has also resulted in many exhibitors taking additional space. Examples include Infasco and Distributor Sales International, with a show record 25 booths, and Heads and Threads International, which has expanded to eight booths. “We expect this trend to continue with companies expanding from one to two booths, two booths to three booths, etc. The current ratio is nearly 1.25 booths per company”, says Jim Bannister, General Partner. The exhibition will be open 9:00 a.m. to 4:00p.m. Tuesday, November 13 and 9:00a.m. to 12:00 noon on Wednesday, November 14. Admission is open to fastener industry businesses, end users are not admitted. Conference programs A full day of conferences programming precedes the expo on Monday, November 12. The Los Angeles Fastener Association is presenting “Understanding the Bolted Joint” from 8:30a.m. to

Another event shows how the new exhibit hall contrasts with the previous NIFS/West setting

4:30p.m. Carmen Vertullo, CFS of Simply Better will be the instructor for a full day of training in a small-group environment, which includes breakfast and lunch, training materials, a certificate of completion and eligibility for LAFA’s Certified Fastener Specialist designation. An Application Engineering Workshop will run from 9:00a.m. to 4:30p.m. led by Jim Speck, P.E., The Johnson Gage Company, who Jim Bannister and Mike McGuire say is “one of the brightest young engineers in the fastener industry and his workshop brings tremendous added value to our educational program”. The Western Association of Fastener Distributors is also offering a two-hour program on ‘The international economy and its effect on costs, demand and pricing of metals affecting the fastener industry’, presented by Dr. Bart Basi. Social events No Vegas Fastener Show would be complete without the popular Gala Welcoming Reception set for Monday evening, November 12 at the Mandalay Bay Convention

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

Center. “The complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres will flow freely. We want this to be our biggest and best welcoming event ever”, say Jim Bannister and Mike McGuire. The reception is free-of-charge for all registered exhibitors and show visitors. The “Hall of Fame” Luncheon on Wednesday will honour Barry L. MacLean, president of MacLean – Fogg Company and Marty Schneider, president of Continental - Aero. “We are pleased to recognise these two business leaders for their many accomplishments and contributions to the industry. We hope that many of their industry colleagues will be there to help us celebrate their induction”, commented Jim Bannister and Mike McGuire. The event is open to all show attendees and will be free of charge for all “Hall of Fame” members attending. By popular demand the Las Vegas golf outing returns on Sunday November 11 at the Stallion Mountain Country Club, with a $25,000 hole-inone contest sponsored by American Fastener Journal. Net proceeds from the outing will go to the Marine Corps Foundation benefiting the Wounded Warrior Program.

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EXHIBITIONS

STAFDA set for a grand ole time This year, Music City will host the 31st Specialty Tools & Fasteners Distributors Association, Annual Convention & Trade Show. The event takes place November 4th - 6th in Nashville, Tennessee. Executive director Georgia Foley lets us in on what to expect at the home of country and western. The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, only 10 minutes from the Nashville International Airport, will host the group’s three day meeting. This November marks STAFDA’s fourth return to Gaylord Opryland which recently completed an $85 million renovation with updated guestrooms, new restaurants, and expanded meeting facilities. STAFDA’s Convention registration opened July 2nd and at press time, the exhibit hall is 59% sold out, the hotel is 60% sold out, and overall attendance is tracking 12% ahead of last year to date. STAFDA’s best attended meetings have always been held in Las Vegas and Nashville and with these two cities hosting back-toback annual meetings, STAFDA is expecting another record crowd this November. Before the meeting begins on November 4th, STAFDA will host a golf scramble on the Gaylord Links Golf Course, Saturday, November 3rd. Carved from the banks of the Cumberland River, the course is designed by former U.S. Open and PGA Champion, Larry Nelson, and is a Scottish links-style, par 72 course.

The first Convention event is the Tech & Consultants Fair. This half-day event allows STAFDA consultants and endorsed service providers to meet individually with members. These professionals are experts in inventory, sales, warehousing, credit card processing, employee testing, financial/tax planning, human resources, and more! Two, one hour workshops will also be featured: Abe WalkingBear Sanchez, STAFDA’s Credit & Collections Consultant, with “What Top Business Managers Don’t Know and How it Hurts their Business.” STAFDA’s Business Insurance consultant, Doug Austin, will follow Sanchez with “Business Insurance Marketplace Tips.” Additional education continues Sunday afternoon with four workshops. Each program is 90 minutes, then repeats to a different audience following a short break. STAFDA’s financial consultant, Dr. Al Bates, will present “Making Money in a Tough Market.” Bates will show how to maximise sales in slow growth periods, manage gross margin, and rethink payroll costs. Economist Alan Beaulieu’s workshop will focus on “Planning for Change.” He’ll share ideas on how to plan effectively for the future and prepare for changes to enhance profits and market strategies. He’ll also offer insights on how China and India are impacting global business. “Protecting Vital Business Systems” will be the third workshop. Mike Foster, an expert in disaster planning, will explain how attendees can safeguard their businesses during natural disasters. He’ll

Gaylord Opryland Center

cover a checklist of necessary business functions, management needs to have in place until their company is fully operational and running at 100% capacity. The fourth speaker is Laura Stack, author of the recently released book, “Up Your Energy.” She’s a time management expert who will provide tips on how to balance a successful career with a rewarding personal life, while boosting personal productivity levels and lowering stress. Spouses/companions, meanwhile, may attend a program by noted American antique appraiser, Ken Farmer. Attendees will be able to bring in their “personal treasures” and have Farmer appraise their value. It’ll be an entertaining afternoon where “priceless treasures” may be discovered or discarded! STAFDA’s Opening Party on Sunday night will be an evening to remember! Following a 90 minute reception and dinner, attendees will be transported to the Grand Ole Opry House, adjacent to the Gaylord Opryland Hotel. Country music superstar, Martina McBride, will perform a private 75-minute concert for STAFDA members. McBride is known as “Country Music’s Queen of Consistency” and is a multi-Platinum recording artist.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

Monday morning’s General Session will include two State of the Industry addresses before keynote speaker, Christopher Gardner, takes the stage. Gardner, subject of the recent movie, Pursuit of Happyness, will share how he went from a single, homeless father, to running his own highly successful brokerage firm in Chicago. Audience members will find his story inspiring and compelling.

Keynote speaker, Christopher Gardner

Following the General Session, the Trade Show opens for six hours. It’s anticipated this year’s show will top last year’s record breaking Las Vegas Show by offering over 1,000 booths with hundreds of vendors. It’s a golden opportunity for distributors to take advantage of show specials, terms, as well as view suppliers’ 2008 product lines. More than 35 major product categories will be represented under one roof. The Trade Show runs another six hours on Tuesday before a Closing Party that evening.

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FACE 2 FACE

Bernhard Berrang President, European Fastener Distributor Association Managing director of Karl Berrang GmbH, which in addition to distribution centres servicing the OEM market across Germany also has businesses in France and the USA, Bernhard Berrang was elected as the second EFDA president in 2004. Phil Matten went to Mannheim to listen to a man who, on every meeting, evinces consideration both in relationships and opinion. One of two delegates from the German distributor association, Fachverband des Schrauben-Großhandels (FDS), Bernhard Berrang has been deeply involved in EFDA’s development since its inception in 2000. He took over the presidency from Dr Florian Seidl at EFDA’s council meeting at Telford, England. A man of considerable personal charm and courtesy, Bernhard Berrang weighs his words with care and, in his presidency to date, has fostered an inclusive and cooperative atmosphere amongst EFDA’s five national association members.

“The EFDA president is responsive to the needs of the member organisations” “The EFDA president is responsive to the needs of the member organisations,” he says. “In particular there is a responsibility to make sure the voice of every member association is heard in equal measure.” Bernhard Berrang also takes seriously the four primary tenets of EFDA. “It is our responsibility to actively provide the European platform that enables the national associations to meet with all parties linked to the fastener distribution industry. We coordinate and collectively respond to essential challenges on behalf of our associated members. We aim to stimulate and promote free exchange of experience between fastener distributor associations worldwide and we work to enhance recognition of the importance and value of the distribution industry wherever possible.” “EFDA was designed from the beginning to be a responsive organisation that came into action when it was needed. It aimed to

encourage a common understanding and to provide an ongoing means of contact, a structure within which its members can easily exchange information. It is consciously a lean organisation so there are no tools, no reservoir of people to do things. The funds are controlled by the national organisations and it is also they that provide the resource to carry through various projects – EFDA acts as the umbrella.” When EFDA came into being in 2000 there was a specific reason. “This was the time when a European Quality Act was being considered and we did not want the same fiasco in Europe as had happened in the United States. Some European countries do now have legislation similar to the FQA but due to the common interaction between the distributors and the manufacturers, there was an understanding that we should not repeat the same mistakes. In the end, there was an intelligent understanding that this would not improve quality but would simply create more work. That is how it has turned out in the US, the bureaucracy is there but it does not improve the quality, simply increases the amount of paperwork.” So how does Europe defend against the pressures on quality? “Over recent years I do not see a real issue here,” explains Bernhard Berrang. “Yes, there is some product that comes into Europe that is of indifferent quality and, of course, there is always the chance that the wrong product might find its way into a critical application. Generally, though, industry is aware that fasteners must be to certain standards and must be inspected. The procedures used in these high criticality applications, in receiving and in assembly, just do not permit bad fasteners being used.”

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

“At some point, though, you have to understand that if you want the level of quality you do have to pay for it. If you do not want to pay for it then maybe there is a different solution...” For Bernhard Berrang customer expectations drive the requirement. “They generally have quite adequate knowledge of the process to make the product, and know which supplier is able to ensure the product is made from the right material, using the right process.” He acknowledges the cost down pressures exerted by customers over several years. “At some point, though, you have to understand that if you want the level of quality you do have to pay for it. If you do not want to pay for it then maybe there is a different solution, a different design that may allow a product to be manufactured in a different way to achieve a cost down. However, it is very short sighted to exchange a quality product, purely on the basis of cost, with one that might not fulfil the requirement and in the end creates risks and costs elsewhere. Of course, we work in a field of tension and sometimes there may not be an answer that satisfies both sides. Where I do see a real problem is the increased paperwork as a result of a quality driven requirement.” Returning

specifically

EFDA

P66

FACE 2 FACE Berrang is quietly satisfied Bernhard with how the organisation functions and is developing. Does he see EFDA as sometimes taking a leadership role or does it always fulfil a responsive role? “It can be both ways. There are items that are created within EFDA and EFDA makes a proposal to the national associations. For the main part EFDA is a facilitator, disseminating information and acting as conduit for communication. Here, EFDA has been very successful between national associations that have distinctive characteristics and varying priorities. When we organise our general meetings, like the one in Stratford-upon-Avon last June, this is very much what EFDA is doing.” “In relation to the threat of antidumping measures, I think everyone sees the need for common action so there is no question who is the leader. With internationalisation, EFDA has taken a leading role in making contacts with North America and Taiwan and, I think, will go on taking a leading role in making contacts with other countries. I see this as a very important task for my presidency.”

“His contacts and knowledge from former roles in the global fastener industry are invaluable...” It is a role in which Bernhard Berrang is appreciative of support from EFDA secretary, Bernd Stapf. “His contacts and knowledge from former roles in the global fastener industry are invaluable,” he says. The starting point for the internationalisation process were invitations to the 2006 Stratford meeting extended to Joel Roseman, then vicepresident and now president of National Fastener Distributor Association in the USA, and William Liao, from the Taiwan Fastener Trading Association. Subsequently Bernhard Berrang and Bernd Stapf made presentations to both NFDA and TFTA conventions. Bernhard Berrang is also keen to explore the possibilities for links in Central and

Eastern Europe. “This was an area that we focused on in the beginning. While there was a lot of distribution activity we realised a significant part was being conducted by distributors who are members of EFDA’s national associations. As far as we know there are not national distributor organisations in these countries. This is important since EFDA will not accept individual company members – it is firmly an association of associations. That means we either find existing organisations that have a formal presence, a common speaker and the appropriate statutes or maybe we will need to encourage and support their development. This is an important reason for EFDA having a presence at the Fastener Fair at Stuttgart, where we will be explaining how we work and what is needed to be a member.” For Bernhard Berrang the opportunity to learn from the diversity that exists in other distribution associations across the world represents real value. Attendance at the NFDA conference in spring 2007 was his first direct involvement with the US association. “In comparison with what we have in Europe it is a very large organisation. There are a lot of companies involved but you have the clear impression that they all know each other pretty well, which is part of the American attitude generally, I think. The climate was very encouraging to talking together. The educational part of their meetings seems very strong and people told me they go to get new ideas. Of course, the US has a unified market with common national standards. We Europeans did not have that before. On the other hand European markets are much geographically closer together. In the US the elbows are not touching so closely: the market is not so intensive as some parts of Europe. Maybe this is why people are more ready to share information. Also it is the American way to come together and do things straight away. In Europe it takes more time and there is more distance in these things.” “What the FDS in Germany and BAFD in the UK have created in terms of educational materials, though, has been outstanding. France is also at the moment developing their education tool together

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

with the French Fastener manufacturer association. To enable people who have not worked with fasteners to have the basic understanding of the technical background and the standards, and the risks of selling these parts, is very important. To be able to then share this work through EFDA has been a valuable achievement.” What has he learnt from the international contacts so far? “That there are differences and that what we do is not always the only or necessarily the best way. I think we could learn that it is possible to share more information together and it would not hurt companys’ positions in the marketplace. Would I be comfortable with this? – That is another question. On the other side, we would probably argue that there are times when it is important to be cautious what you show others. What we have done now is established a working group between the three associations that can discuss items common to the different markets. It is a tool to communicate, in keeping with the philosophy of EFDA, when it is necessary or productive to do so.”

“There is a long tradition of dialogue – sometimes of monologue...” There are areas, also, Bernhard Berrang believes where manufacturers and distributors can benefit from dialogue. “There is a long tradition of dialogue – sometimes of monologue. We are partners in the same market; we are competitors in the same market; we are customers and suppliers in the same market. Distributors rely on manufacturers to produce the solutions that they sell. We need the manufacturers, as they need distributors because they cannot properly serve the market on their own. Manufacturers have to educate distributors in what they can do. Equally the distributors must listen. It should be possible to establish common technical conditions between manufacturers and distributors because we face the same market. Also there should be co-operation in new standards and in updating existing ones, with education another area in which manufacturers and distributors can co-operate.”

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The Aladdin’s Cave of fasteners Max Mothes, Düsseldorf Extensive…wideranging…comprehensive – you regularly hear these descriptions of fastener stockholding. Sometimes they prove accurate, other times somewhat optimistic. As Harry Whyte and Phil Matten discovered during a recent visit to Düsseldorf, when it comes to Max Mothes any of these expressions is, well frankly… inadequate. Truthfully, in the German fastener industry you don’t need to say any more than ‘Max Mothes’ to conjure up an extraordinary commitment to stockholding of engineering related fasteners. Established formally in 1918, Max Mothes has occupied the same site, south of Düsseldorf city centre, since 1937. In those 70 years it has accrued a unique reputation for availability across arguably the widest range of mechanical fasteners in Europe. While a central city location still has benefits – Max Mothes maintains a local service trade counter and many of its personnel live close by – it also brings with it the challenges of traffic congestion and difficult truck access as well as limits to physical expansion. Once a big industrial park the area in which Max Mothes is situated is now mainly residential. 1990 was the last year in which the company was able to expand on the site, building upwards with an additional layer of office space. For that reason Max Mothes production operation was relocated to an industrial area in Neuss-Uedesheim, alongside which the company has three warehouse halls providing 15,000 pallet spaces of storage. Between the two sites the company employs 300 people. 100 are at NeussUedesheim. 85 people operate the Düsseldorf warehouse, with the remainder in office roles, the majority comprising sales teams structured by geographic service areas. Max Mothes also employs fifteen external sales people to cover Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Spain and Turkey.

It is not entirely fanciful to talk about an Aladdin’s Cave when describing the Düsseldorf warehouse operation. Expansion over the years has resulted in a complex series of storage and operational areas hosting seemingly labyrinthine storage shelves. Sales director Karl Heinz Plum acts as our maze-master pointing out, picking up and, in the case of an M140 DIN 934 nut, energetically hefting, examples of Max Mothes treasures. You want M6 by 300mm long DIN 912 – fine, what would you prefer? Grade 8.8, 10.9, 12.9? Of course, production requirements for these sizes will still be in the thousands, while customer orders are inevitably no more, and often less, than 100 – offering an insight to the stockholding commitment required to offer ranges that often extend to M64 diameters. Little surprise then, that stock counting is operated on a cyclical basis or that Karl Heinz Plum’s surefooted guidance is the result of 40 years experience at Max Mothes. Knowledge is fundamental to Max Mothes. The company supplies some 6,000

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accounts, from an inventory of 90,000 articles. German customers are mainly end users, although sheer availability draws regular orders from distributors. Export, which is worldwide, is more often to distribution. Like many German fastener companies, expansion to the East has been significant over recent years. Max Mothes has established distributors in Russia and has experienced good growth from Poland and the Baltic states. Overall, export accounts for 35% of sales, much of it following German industrial companies that have spread their wings globally. Ensuring that vital expertise is there for the future Max Mothes operates apprenticeship programs for both commercial and warehouse personnel. It is a reflection of the difficulty of recruiting qualified and experienced people, but it is also an investment that pays dividends in terms of employee’s long-term commitment to the business. Inevitably, the combination of a huge

Karl Heinz Plum delightedly showing Max Mothes treasures

See us on stand

5.2 G9 19th-20th September 2007

INSIGHT

inventory, products,

including many scarce and an extensive customer base means that orders picked at the Düsseldorf warehouse are often small and fragmented. Over 300 parcels below 30Kg are despatched every day and picking documents highlight how many orders are single line or, where multi-line, have small, no-box multiple quantities. Add in requirements for sorting and packing materials returned from plating and it is easy to understand why, uncharacteristically for German distribution, this is a manual and labour intensive operation. For most items Düsseldorf only holds immediate picking stocks. In-bound inspection is, therefore, limited if evidently stringent, concentrating mainly on dimensional conformity. A short drive across the Rhine to Neuss-Uedesheim, in the company of Silke Vitenius – joint managing director together with Jürgen Reinhardt – reveals completely different aspects of Max Mothes. Here, two complete warehouse halls are dedicated to palletised stock, from which the Düsseldorf warehouse is fed daily, using own transport that also delivers to local customers. Currently a Kanban style replenishment system links the two inventories, although it is planned to replace this with a computer-based system. Here, too, is a well-equipped inspection department. The majority of standard fastener inventory is sourced in Europe. Suppliers are categorised according to historic performance so inspection is carried out on a statistical sample basis. Much of the inspection equipment and resource, though, is focused on the thousands of special parts Max Mothes handles and manufactures for its customers. A computer-linked profile projector is key in checking critical dimensions and profiles. A similarly linked tester ensures turned part surfaces conform to required levels of smoothness. As always, though, it is the commitment of the quality specialist that is the final determinant and here, be assured, there is absolutely no lack of enthusiasm for the task.

supplies an equal mix of standard fasteners and special parts. It is not uncommon to share an account, where one of the major managed inventory specialist’s supplies high volume, price critical, standards and Max Mothes fulfils specials and lower volume standards. Deliveries are generally weekly and mainly dispatched in KLTs.

flexibility and speed of response. Never is this more important to customers than during the Christmas to New Year period when many factories carry out maintenance – only to discover they urgently need a part to get the factory back online. “It is a time when we do very good manufacturing business,” says Jürgen Reinhardt.

At the other end of the building is a jewel in the Max Mothes crown. The company began manufacturing soon after its establishment – an initiative by Silke Vitenius’ great great grandfather, initially just cutting lengths but soon developing wider competences. In the 1980s Max Mothes bought another manufacturing company, which was assimilated to its own operation. More recently Max Mothes has begun the process of investment in modern automatic CNC technology, clearly evident as one walks around a 2,500 square metre facility, which also houses band saws, a bank of two die circular thread rollers, and an array of manual and semi-automatic lathes and drillers. The manufacturing operation employs 45 skilled and highly flexible operators producing for the main part short run batches of typically 15 to 20 pieces.

Max Mothes is an institution in the European fastener industry. As its management acknowledge that status brings with it a reputation for being somewhat conventional, perhaps oldfashioned. That is understandable – but also demands that one looks a little deeper. The company has modern information technology systems applied to virtually all aspects of its operation. It operates a complex, service driven business achieving high levels of satisfaction from some of the most demanding end users in the market. While it retains, and clearly values, depth of experience, it invests intensively in the development and retention of its younger employees. It has appointed young, talented managers in the logistics, sales administration and purchasing functions and has others ready in the wings to take on the roles vacated by retiring members of the management structure.

The first rack in the adjoining bulk stock warehouse is dedicated to Max Mothes’ inventory of large diameter hexagon and socket head blanks. By now it is no surprise to learn that there are around 800 different dimensions in stock in diameters ranging up to M80 and lengths beyond 600mm. In the production area there are also extensive bar stocks for turning outright special parts. The emphasis throughout is on

A third, linked, warehouse is dedicated to Max Mothes’ growing Kanban business. The company services around 40 accounts, mainly in Germany but also in France, Belgium, Middle and Eastern Europe. Typically it Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

An appetite for change and progression is evident, even from a short visit. It is tempered, though, by a recognition and respect for the core values that have been developed over nearly 90 years. It is a balance that shows all the signs of being well poised to drive Max Mothes forward for years to come.

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INSIGHT

New European quality initiative in Shanghai Both Ferdinand Gross and Fastbolt have many years of experience independently sourcing fasteners from Asia. Each already has its own sourcing office in Shanghai. Now the two companies have established a jointly owned Fastener Quality Center (FQC) in Shanghai. Phil Matten talked to Fastbolt group managing director, Ekkehard Beermann, about the new initiative. Catching up with Ekkehard Beermann can sometimes prove a challenge. This time the convenient venue turned out to be Dusseldorf. For the Fastbolt group MD it was a

brief sojourn in Germany to check progress on a major development project at the company’s Gronau warehouse before returning to Shanghai, where he spends an increasing amount of his time. His other major project addresses the crucial issue of ensuring consistent product quality from Fastbolt’s Chinese suppliers. “We’ve been thinking about quality control in China for a long time,” explains Beermann. Two years ago Fastbolt established a Chinese subsidiary in China with offices in Shanghai. “It has been very important to us,” he says, “particularly in strengthening relationships and communication with key factories. Factory audits can be carried out regularly and we can have someone at the factory almost immediately if there are any issues to be addressed.” Fastbolt China was also established with the objective and capability of controlling quality more tightly. “We have the knowledge but, in terms of actual testing, we remain reliant on the factories’ own laboratories. The equipment is somewhat variable and, of course, availability of the facilities are dependent on the factory’s own needs.” “We want to extend the range of products imported from China but it is absolutely crucial that we have stringent quality control as near as possible to the source,” says Beermann. “Ferdinand Gross already also has an office in Shanghai and, as we discovered the more we talked together, faces similar needs. Their purchasing director, Friedhelm Noll agreed there was little sense in investing separately in testing resources when we could work together to achieve an excellent

joint facility.” As a result the two companies agreed an equal share joint venture. The new Chinese company has been established as a technical consultancy to meet local regulations. “We originally looked at setting up in Haiyan but rapidly recognised there was real difficulty in recruiting technically qualified people there. It was equally difficult to persuade good technical people to move from Shanghai to Haiyan, so we decided to locate in Shanghai, on the outskirts of Pudong.” General management of the new company will be the responsibility of Werner Schelling, Ferdinand Gross’ highly experienced quality manager. “While he will not be based full time in China, he will be spending a lot of time there,” says Beermann. Initially two Chinese technicians are being trained. The training has included extensive periods at Ferdinand Gross’ headquarters in Leinfelden-Echterdingen, Fastbolt in Gronau and at a professional independent fastener laboratory. Fastener Quality Center occupies the 350 square metres ground floor of a new building in Pudong. “We had a bit of a challenge getting a 6 tonne

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

tensile tester through the main door,” smiles Beermann, “but otherwise the organisation has been excellent. The first phase of equipment provides all we need for comprehensive metallurgical and physical testing – core and surface hardness, tensile testing to 20 and 100 tonnes, spectroanalysis, coating thickness, all dimensional testings and all the preparation machines.” Operations start at the beginning of August and the official opening is scheduled for mid October. “The process is already started to obtain ISO 17025 status which will take about 7-8 months,” says Beermann. Once established, and satisfactorily fulfilling Ferdinand Gross and Fastbolt’s own requirements, the intention is to offer the services of the facility more widely. “We will be able to offer a European standard quality testing facility in China,” explains Beermann, “to both European and US importers who need similar assurance close to source. We will also be able to offer Chinese manufacturers a local facility at which they can prove their quality under stringent and independent scrutiny.” Ferdinand Gross are exhibiting at Fastener Fair Stuttgart, Hall 4 Stand C38. Fastbolt will be found at Hall 4 Stand B14.

PROFILE

Lakshmi Precision Screws Rohtak, India Known globally as “LPS”, Lakshmi Precision Screws is a US$46 million company, which has established itself as a leading manufacturer and supplier of high tensile fasteners for the automotive and other industrial sectors. The company started in 1972 as a small 500 tonne output plant in a technical tie-up with Richard Bergner, Germany. Today it has grown to over 18,000 tonne capacity and boasts state-of-the-art plants and world-class testing facilities. Its dedicated team of professionals is driven with a real zeal to make world-class products under the leadership of a dynamic management team. In the last decade LPS has achieved at an average rate of 24% annually and this year has exceeded the US$46 million mark in revenues for the first time. The company is a major player in the Indian domestic market and a leading exporter, with 43% of sales coming from exports. The corporate vision of Lakshmi Precision Screws vision is to have LPS products in one out of every ten vehicles in the next ten years. The company also aims to be recognised as the most preferred supplier of international standard; to be a one stop shop with a strong replacement brand; and to be a global player competing with the best in the industry. LPS has grown steadily over the past 30 years on the strength of its in-house technological developments and innovations, coupled with the establishment of a reputation as a company with strong commitment to

Looking forward Lakshmi Precision Screws has clearly identified the cornerstones to its continued development and success. Consolidating global presence: LPS is a dominant Indian player in exports to the US, Europe and Australia and is very closely watching the trends in the international market. India is now considered as a preferred destination for component sourcing and companies like

customer satisfaction and quality improvement. The company attributes the main reasons for the growth to: • the opening up of Indian industry and strong OEM growth • a major focus on exports and OEM developments • internal restructuring to bring focus on individual market segments of OEMs and replacements LPS is emphatic that its products are not normal fasteners, but precision fasteners, manufactured inside its own facilities. Besides forging, extruding, thread rolling, heat-treating and plating/coating (which are environmentally friendly), LPS also has capabilities for sophisticated physical, mechanical and chemical testing. All manufacturing facilities are supported with an online quality assurance system employing statistical process control.

current level of success. These include EEPC awards for three consecutive years; the Golden Peacock Award for its environment management system; and Volvo Global Supplier audit and certification. Today Lakshmi Precision Screws has a series of prestigious business partnerships and global alliances. These include: LPS-Bossard Pvt. Ltd. - a joint venture company of LPS and Bossard, AG of Switzerland. Recoil Business Division of 'LPS’. This division of LPS is sole master distributor of Fairchild Fasteners Melbourne, a part of Alcoa group. A licensing agreement with Camcar Division to manufacture and market TORX™ proprietary products.

LPS is proud to be able to claim it is the first fastener company to achieve TS16949:2002 certification. The company is also ISO-9002, QS-9000 and ISO-14001 certified. Its testing facilities are A2LA, USA and NABL, India accredited. The company has also achieved a series of major recognitions during the journey to its

Ford Motor, Volvo, Cummins, John Deere, GM, Hyundai, Volkswagen, Caterpillar, have either scaled up sourcing capacities or adopted India as a new source destination. With its in-house capabilities and technical know-how, LPS believes it is geared up to capture this huge potential and boost its presence in the international arena. Continuous research and development: LPS is spending between 1 and 1.5% of the

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

total turnover of the company on R&D. The objective is to be able to provide a one stop shop for all the fasteners requirement of its customers. Capacity increases and technical enhancements: LPS is planning both machine additions and major efficiency drives such as Six Sigma Projects. The company is also working for OSHAS certification this year.

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FACE 2 FACE

Steve Auld Chief executive officer, Trifast plc Steve Auld was appointed as chief executive of Trifast on 1st June 2007, taking over from Jim Barker who stepped down as planned after five years in the role. Phil Matten caught up with Steve in late August for a characteristically free-ranging conversation. Steve Auld is 47. He joined the Trifast plc board in October 2005, following the group’s acquisition of Serco Ryan, where he had been managing director since July 2005, and previously sales and marketing director for 15 years. Steve is also chairman of the British Association of Fastener Distributors and vice-president of the European Fastener Distributors Association.

“TR introduced the concept of vendor managed inventory to the fastener market in 1992,” Steve Auld is the first Trifast CEO not to have worked his way up through the TR ranks – an accolade, and responsibility, which he takes very seriously. TR was established as a local fastener distributor in Uckfield, East Sussex, in 1973 by Mike Timms and Mike Roberts – hence the brand. “TR introduced the concept of vendor managed inventory to the fastener market in 1992,” explains Steve. “That typified an approach that really contrasted with the rigidity the old British fastener manufacturers had displayed for years. TR had a genuinely caring service approach to its customers – they would split a box, almost gift wrap the product and they would deliver it, without fail, on the day you wanted it. That culture, fostered by Malcolm Diamond when he became MD, remains integral to TR today.” Trifast plc acquired full listing on the London Stock Exchange in 1994. “At that time you were looking at a £30million sales business,” says Steve. For the year ending March 2007 Trifast reported sales of £131.95 million, up 12% on the previous year, generating before tax profits of £8.81million, a 55% improvement. While retaining significant shareholdings Mike Timms and Mike Roberts no longer have an active role in the business. Nevertheless Steve Auld is intent that their legacy is not forgotten and has just commissioned photographs of the two founders, either side of the brand they initiated, for TR’s reception areas. “They translated that caring attitude to TR’s own employees,” says Steve. “Clearly it was tough down in East Sussex to find well trained fastener people, so it was pragmatic to make sure you kept the people you developed. More than that, though, they knew how to recognise and reward people personally – something that remains very important to us.” The result has been people committed long term to TR. “Geoff Budd is a fine example. He started in the warehouse, progressed through goods inwards to the purchasing office, from there to senior commercial roles, and onto main board directorship.”

It’s clear that, even in the few months since his appointment, Steve Auld is intent on valuing what he calls the TR family culture – one that, he says, he has been able to see very clearly as someone coming into the business. Currently he is completing a round of one-toone conversations with senior people across TR’s locations. “It is about having a comfortable atmosphere in which people will articulate their concerns, allowing them to be properly recognised and addressed. Then in the evening it’s a simple thing, we go out for a round table meal with the team, so you can see everybody, engage everyone in conversation. Maybe we are a little more formal today, but it owes it origins to Mike Timms and Mike Roberts.” It is a demonstration of the seriousness with which Steve Auld views the less tangible but equally important responsibility of fostering the “TR spirit”. He is also intent that the approach will “cascade throughout the business” – one that now employs 1,150 people globally.

“The Serco Ryan acquisition was needed by both parties,” Which is not to say that this is a business cast in stone. “The Serco Ryan acquisition was needed by both parties,” he says. “Serco needed an understanding home to go to. The market penetration of the two businesses was complimentary. Jim Barker, though, also recognised that TR needed to restructure itself ready for its next phase of development. Quite rightly we came to talk about it as a transformative acquisition.” It was not without pain, inevitably. “Finding so-called synergy benefits in practice translates in to people’s jobs. It’s never nice and I certainly had restless moments – the day I don’t feel that way I will probably have got it badly wrong.” In the main, though, Steve Auld is convinced the process of assimilation was managed properly and fairly although he acknowledges, “if you are on the receiving end it can never feel that way.” TR now has eight branches in the UK, reduced from 18 at the time of the Serco acquisition. “At the time everyone in the business knew that our Asian operation was the centre of TR profitability. We set out to rebalance that. Lat year Europe and the US made more profit than Asia, not because Asia fell back but because the other areas drove forward.”

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

FACE 2 FACE

Across

Europe TR has been busy building its infrastructure. “Recruitment of our new European sales team should be completed by October,” says Steve. “We have earmarked a lot of funds this year for recruitment and training of the right people to take TR forward. That includes bringing in 30 apprentices to the UK business, with plans for a similar number next year.”

transformative acquisitions and this was most certainly one. The deal between Jim and Steven allowed us to enter the Asian market on a rock solid footing. Since then it has been a series of gentle acquisitions of quality businesses that have produced good sales revenue and profits.” In 2002 TR opened its own distribution operation in Shanghai and has now commenced manufacturing in China to service the market there.

“We need to have our next generation of people in place”

“Steven has been a major driving force in TR throughout those years so, just as with the handover from Jim to myself, management continuity will be crucial when he steps down at the end of this year. Fortunately we already have an outstanding thinker and management practitioner, Michael Teng, in place as deputy MD of TR Asia Group.”

“We need to have our next generation of people in place and it is tough to recruit the right people into a fastener business, which is why we are committed to catching and working on them when they are young.” “A lot of people look at TR as one of the big providers of VMI systems to the OEM market - absolutely right, we are. We have other points of entry to the marketplace, though. We are working hard on what we call transactional sales activity – where we are happy to take orders from smaller customers for boxes of fastener components for deliver to their locations. A lot of people seem to have forgotten about that marketplace. We haven’t – it is a good market and an invaluable one in which to train our people in preparation for roles servicing our contract customers.” “The other part of our business that is very active, and becoming even more so, is the sale of TR branded products. Earlier this year we launched our Master Distributor programme for Europe, based on a tremendous level of market research, which we have been able to share with our chosen partners. This ensures they can be effective at developing TR branded sales, mainly in the markets where we do not have our operation, although there are exceptions like Holland where our master distributor and the TR branch work amicably alongside each other.”

“It’s not about who can buy the most TR stock, it is about who will be most effective at building long term sales” “In June we launched the programme in the US, presenting the concept to eight distributors we invited to Phoenix. Almost embarrassingly every one of them really wants to participate so we are now going through a qualification process. It’s not about who can buy the most TR stock, it is about who will be most effective at building long term sales, particularly for self-clinch where we see a US$17million market share opportunity.” “The great thing was that the first joint presentation alongside our Californian master distributor immediately resulted in US$250,000 of business. Alan Bate, our group distribution sales manager, got confirmation of the order an hour before he was due to report to the board on the US program. Was he smug? – You better believe it.” Turning to Asia, Steve Auld is again emphatic about the pivotal roles played by Jim Barker and by Steven Tan, the latter joining TR when his Formac company was acquired in 1997. “Talk about

So talking about transformation, how has Steve Auld found his own changes the last two years? Characteristically the short answer is, “I’ve really enjoyed it.” He is also quick to identify some key enabling factors. “Strangely enough, the role as chairman of BAFD was very important,” he says. “I did wonder what I had let myself in for at the time but while, hopefully, I managed to do some good for the association it certainly did some good for me. It provided the arena in which I got to know Jim Barker, and also many other key senior people in the UK industry whom I value deeply. It also provided, through EFDA, a unique opportunity to meet with business leaders from across Europe and gain a much stronger insight into the differences in the various markets it encompasses.”

“Having a strong, established senior team in place, with which you can talk through your ideas, is an absolute bonus.” “Taking on the role at TR has been a real pleasure. Having a strong, established senior team in place, with which you can talk through your ideas, is an absolute bonus. Again I owe Jim a debt for the way in which he ensured scope for exploration of ideas with people who are not afraid to voice their thoughts and are prepared to translate them into effective action.” A similar level of transparency has now also been adopted in TR’s communication with its shareholders. The recently published Annual Report and Accounts reflects a radical departure, catalysed by chief financial officer Stuart Lawson - based on research that showed strongly positive investor response to a higher degree of transparency and on Lawson’s own frustration with an old format that “didn’t add any value.” “We have already had excellent feedback from investors,” says Steve Auld. “Including one comment saying ‘you are one of the few companies where I can pick up the report and understand what you are doing and why you are doing it’.” “It is a document that shows what the TR spirit is about,” concludes Steve Auld, “It underlines our responsibility to achieve sound profitability in order to drive key developments that will ensure our continued growth. Above all it reflects the crucial role that will be played by the quality and energies of TR people.”

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

Torque controlled expansion anchors. About the Construction Fixings Association “Ensuring Best Fixings Practice” neatly encapsulates the objectives of a group of major fixing manufacturers, which came together as the Construction Fixings Association as long ago as 1979. The Association fulfils this objective by means of a variety of different activities of which this series of articles is one. European Technical Approvals Probably the most significant development within the European fixings industry in recent years has been the award of over 200 European Technical Approvals [ETAs] for anchors to be used in safety critical applications. ETAs are awarded against comprehensive and thorough testing regimes to give both specifier and user the confidence that approved anchors will work reliably and carry the quoted loads. Distributors offering anchors with ETAs are providing their customers with valuable commodities – confidence and peace of mind. The CFA has been involved from the start with the development of the Guidelines (ETAGs) against which ETAs are awarded. Work with influential industry bodies The CFA has been represented on a variety of committees over the years including BBA, BSI, BSRIA, CEN and CIRIA and has thereby made a significant contribution to the better understanding and use of fixings within the UK and Europe. Members Commitment All CFA members are committed to providing technically proven products manufactured to recognised Quality Assurance procedures and backed up with comprehensive technical support services including performance data, applications advice, on site testing and training in the correct use of their products.

Mark Salmon of Independent Fixing Consultants represents the interests of the CFA in the various European and UK committees concerned with the use of fixings in the construction industry. Mark has drafted most of the CFA Guidance Notes, freely available from their website www.fixingscfa.co.uk which he runs. Independent Fixing Consultants offers training for specifiers, distributors and installers covering all aspects of the selection, installation and testing of fixings for general purposes or specialised applications.

In reviewing the first series of articles penned by Mark Salmon on behalf of the CFA it became apparent there was a large gap in the topics he had covered - all those anchors which you put into a hole and set by tightening. The most common of all anchors specified and, so he assures me, arguably the most reliable. But also probably the anchor you are already most familiar with. So the challenge for Mark is to throw new light on this most common of anchoring techniques. I suspect he will just use it as an excuse to bang on about the benefits of tightening torque! The earliest recognisable anchoring technique which could take significant loads was a “Torque controlled expansion anchor”, what we know today as the “Shield anchor”, and it was developed and popularised, although not invented, by a gentleman named John Rawlings who kindly lent his name to the company which made it and still does. Note I didn’t say “The first recognisable anchoring system”. That particular accolade, in which the word system is most appropriate, goes to the humble – let’s call it “Wall plug” – from the same stable. Initially they were made of metal but soon replaced by fibre (mmmmmm, yummy) if you knew how they are made you might not think so! and latterly plastic. The “System” bit came from the fact that, in those days, you drilled a hole with a No.10 drill bit, put a No.10 plug into the hole and fixed your shelves up with a No.10 screw. And they could actually take quite large loads because, back then, 1” plugs were not unknown – I’m talking diameter here not length! But for really high loads you needed a much stronger device – enter the Shield anchor. The Shield anchor comprised of a series of malleable cast iron segments loosely held together by a clip with a cast expander cone at the bottom end through which was threaded a bolt. Tightening the bolt drew the cone into the segments and forced them into the sides of the hole where they gripped and resisted being pulled out - mostly by friction. The concept of the tapered cone has survived and gives all torque controlled anchors one of their most useful features “Follow up expansion”. If for any reason

Mark Salmon, of Independent Fixings Consultants can be contacted personally on + 44 (0) 1664 474 755 Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

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have not tightened the anchor quite enough, or an you extra, unexpected load is applied, the cone can pull even further into the anchor, increasing the expansion and hence the load capacity. Not a feature you want to rely on as a matter of course but a benefit compared with those expansion anchors in which the initial expansion is all they ever get. The other useful feature of the early Shield anchor and still employed by all those myriad companies who have copied the idea (a noble tradition among fixing manufacturers) is the clip which holds the segments loosely so that they can expand easily. This, together with the large expansion ratio afforded by the thick segments, is what makes them work so well in brickwork. Why? Because brickwork, being a relatively soft material, tends to open up under the action of powerful drilling machines, and hole diameters can easily be a full millimetre larger than you might expect. The clip lets the segments expand into the enlarged hole most readily and the segments are thick enough to still be able to exert a strong grip. Malleable cast iron is still being used but not in the eponymous version which turned to pressed steel segments and cold forged expanders years ago. The availability of a variety of different formats, including hex bolts, projecting studs, hooks and eyes, not to mention shield alone, means the shield anchor is still alive and well.

engineers looking to transfer high loads into concrete structures. The high stress exerted by the expansion mechanism rules it out for brickwork.

“Talking of cracks, but turning back to concrete, Throughbolts have been a real success here.” The other through fixing is, of course, the “Throughbolt”. Popular because the hole you drill is the same diameter as the bolt itself. This has meant that the expander clip is relatively small so the expansion stresses are relatively high and focussed in such a small area of the substrate that while they work very well in concrete they are not really suited to brickwork which they tend to crack. Talking of cracks, but turning back to concrete, Throughbolts have been a real success here. When it became apparent that cracked concrete had a potentially serious effect, not only on how anchors actually worked, but also on their load capacity, it was initially assumed that only special anchors such as Undercut types would be the answer. Well, careful development of the Throughbolt

“The deficiencies of the shield anchor were... that it was not a through fixing and... not all that strong” The deficiencies of the shield anchor were, and still are, that it was not a through fixing and, in comparison to modern anchors, not all that strong as it used a mild steel bolt (since replaced with stronger grades). These aspects were answered by what we now know as Thick walled sleeve anchors. The replacement of the mild steel bolt with a high tensile one did the trick for the tensile strength while the addition of a thick sleeve above the shield added real strength in shear and made it a through fixing as well. Features are usually included to help ensure expansion starts easily and to enable small gaps between the fixture and the concrete to be pulled down. This combination of high strength and ease of installation has made this anchor type popular with

expansion mechanism has meant that the Throughbolt has become the most popular anchor in terms of the number of European Technical Approvals awarded for use in cracked concrete. Talking of which the Throughbolt is also popular among copyists who can churn them out by the million with little regard to how well they actually work. Cheap they may be but many of them don’t function correctly in the best drilled holes let alone in hard concrete or when the drill bit is worn. The only way to be sure that any anchor will work well, and do what it says in the catalogue, is to choose one with that coveted ETA.

“Torque Control” is to control the clamping force, which means the fixture won’t move...” But of course the real benefit of “Torque Control” is to control the clamping force, which means the fixture won’t move, and to protect the bolt material to make sure it’s not overstressed - but that’s almost a topic in its own right so I’ll leave you to mug up on that via the website at www.fixingscfa.co.uk - see the Article on Installation - first published here in volume 32 and reproduced on the CFA website by kind permission of F&FE. Thank you.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

INSIGHT

Building a brand that meets approval Trutek Construction Fastening Systems In little more than five years Trutek has built a strong recognition for its branded range of fixings throughout the UK market. Not so obviously, the Sheffield headquartered company has also quietly established firm footholds in many European markets, through a combination of company expansion and distribution partnerships. Will Lowry found out more from Steve Miller, responsible for Trutek European operations. Trutek was formed in November 2001 and started trading in January 2002 from its headquarters in Sheffield, UK. “Our aim”, says Steve, “was to provide a comprehensive range of construction fixing systems to the UK distribution sector and also to develop exports to countries in Europe.” Since opening in the UK, Trutek has established two further operations; one in Warsaw, Poland, which was opened in July 2004, and another in Lisbon, Portugal, opened in January 2007. “The operation in Poland has developed strongly since opening in 2004,” says Steve, “and with the Polish construction market currently being very active, we’re confident we can go on growing the business.” “2008 will present Trutek Poland with major expansion opportunities as a direct

result of Poland and Ukraine being awarded the European Football Championships in 2012. Due to the Championships there are plans for three new stadiums, plus the refurbishment of another five stadiums. 1,000 new hotels are planned to be built and there will be improvements in all infrastructures including roads and rail networks.” As well as planning for the future, Steve explained some of the challenges Trutek faced when first setting up the operation. “The operation in Poland was a completely new set up and was also established before Poland joined the EU. This meant that, initially, we had to market products to Polish standards, which are very stringent.”

“We have several ITB approved products such as throughbolts, drop-in anchors, PAT, sleeve anchors and resin systems,” explains Steve. “We also hope to obtain ITB approval on our concrete bolt and shield anchor range in the near future”. It’s a commitment that has clearly struck a chord with Polish distributors. “We found that Polish distributors were coming to us wanting to take the Trutek brand, rather than us having to go out and persuade them,” says Steve. “Being an established UK company also proved to be a positive for our Polish customers.” “As a group we are committed to position ourselves more and more firmly in the approved product market and push away from commodity trading”

“The requirement for approved product is far more widespread in Poland than in the UK and our ability to supply these products has been an important strength in our development in Poland. Even since the expansion of the EU and the official adoption of European standards, the Polish standard is still specified strongly.”

Trutek has just implemented a SAP fully integrated computer system, which incorporates purchasing via its website. Across the group it has recruited three new sales people during 2007 and plans to add a further 5 next year. “In Poland we are also looking to recruit two technical specialists to visit sites along side our distributors’ sales people” adds Steve.

The Polish standards are defined by the ITB (Building Research Institute), whose aim is to ensure the quality of the Polish building industry. To do this the ITB has a group of testing laboratories, including 14 accredited PCA laboratories. These laboratories allow the ITB to grant technical approvals (AT ITB) for the majority of construction and electrical engineering products.

The Portuguese operation was only opened at the beginning of this year. Steve explained why the location was chosen.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

“As well as allowing us to develop business in the Portuguese market, establishing the business in Lisbon provides us a great opportunity to develop business across Spain, which remains a strong market for construction products.” P88

Group Operations Trutek UK Trutek House Brooklands Business Park Leigh Street, Sheffield S9 2PR, United Kingdom Tel.: +44 (0) 1142 42 3333 Fax: +44 (0) 1142 42 3300 e-mail: sales@trutekfasteners.co.uk

Trutek Polska Al. Krakowska 55, Sękocin Nowy, 05-090 Raszyn/k Warszawy, Poland Tel.: +48 22 701 9325 Fax: +48 22 701 9324 e-mail: info@trutek.com.pl

Trutek Portugal Edifício Fábrica De Portugal Av. Marquês De Pombal 524, Sabugo, Fracção 29, 2715-128 Pero Pinheiro, Portugal Tel.: +351 21 962 7100 Fax: +351 21 962 7109 e-mail: info@trutekfasteners.pt www.trutekfasteners.co.uk

With an ever expanding product range to meet our customers needs and exceed their expectations.

INSIGHT

Steve

acknowledges, though, that similar to Poland the Portuguese development has also been driven by relationships as much as market opportunity. ”When we first looked at setting up an operation in Portugal, we considered acquiring an established family company. However, the location of the company, in the centre of Lisbon, presented significant limitations, particularly in relation to vehicle access to the warehouse. In the end, we decided to set up the operation in a new location, on the outskirts of Lisbon, where we could take on an excellent new warehouse. Then we moved the family business into the new building. Although that represented some disruption to existing trade, in the longer term it means we have a much more efficient operation, which we can easily expand.” In addition to the owned operations in Poland and Portugal, Trutek has also established distributors across Europe and the Middle East. “We have strong distributors in Russia, Czech Republic, Romania, Bulgaria, Italy, Switzerland and the Middle East” commented Steve. “These are mature businesses importing their volume requirements direct. However, they need a reliable shortrange partner to fill gaps in the range, or shortages - which Trutek is able to do very effectively.”

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Trutek is planning further expansion in 2008, with the company looking at opening an operation in Scandinavia. Steve commented “The plan is to open an operation in Finland, an opportunity which is again based on relationship. This will provide us with a base to service the whole of Scandinavia.” He went on to say “There are also plans past 2008 to grow the Trutek operation base in such countries as Holland, Belgium, Spain and France.” “As well as expanding abroad we are planning to move our UK operation in 2008, to a purpose built 11,500sq ft premises, where we will have full testing facilities for further product development and customer training.” It hasn’t taken long to establish the Trutek brand, in the UK and across European markets, which is a testament to the dedication and ambition of its management team. The brand’s established reputation and conformity to ITB standards means Trutek is extremely well positioned to exploit a vibrant Polish construction

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market, as well as penetrating the Iberian market from its more recently established Portuguese operation. It’s clear that the appetite to grow elsewhere is also strong, and with a wellestablished supply chain for its branded ranges it seems like it won’t be long before Trutek is rapidly scaling the slopes of several more key European markets.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

19th-20th September 2007

4. D4

See us on stand

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

Ceiling collapse in the Interstate 90 Connector Tunnel Boston, Massachusetts, 10 July 2006. On 10 July 2006 sections of concrete ceiling panels fell from the roof of a road tunnel in Boston (a section of the so called “Big Dig”) killing the female passenger of a car travelling beneath. The panels had been suspended from the concrete roof using hangers, each fixed - six years earlier - with anchor rods set in epoxy resin. Anyone involved with the supply of anchoring systems in general, and resin systems in particular, must be concerned to know what the causes of the accident were? If such a thing could happen here? And, if so, how it could be avoided? We asked Mark Salmon of Independent Fixing Consultants for his comments as an independent expert on these issues. resulted in a commensurate loss of strength. What sort of resin was used in the Boston Tunnel? The resin used was an epoxy resin but one made available in two versions – a “Standard Set” version and a “Fast Set” version. The latter Post accident photograph by Massachusetts State Police. was found to have been The car is just visible beneath the concrete panel used in the area of the wreckage accident. Both were formulated by Sika Corporation and The failure of the anchors was supplied to Powers Inc in the USA who sold investigated by the National it under their own brand. From enquiries I Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) of have made I do not believe any of the major America who issued a report on the European manufacturers of anchors anniversary of the accident. The following supplies this or a similar formulation. I comments are based on the statements cannot be sure about the many importers made in the report, a full version of which of anchoring products so distributors or can be downloaded from www.ntsb.gov. users who are concerned on this issue Of the many points raised in the report should make enquires through their own here are the ones believed to be most suppliers. significant in the view of the writer: How does this resin relate to what is The major finding is that “ the probable available and used in the UK? cause ….. was the use of an epoxy anchor Resins can be crudely divided into two adhesive with poor creep resistance, …..”. categories. The report also points to “… a lack of understanding and knowledge in the construction community about creep in adhesive anchoring systems.” The report also found that a high proportion of the anchors in the area of the failure – nineteen out of twenty – had voids in the resin and these would have

The first group includes Vinylester*, Polyester, Methacrylate and Hybrid. These are the types of resin most commonly used in the UK. They differ in formulation and capabilities but share the fact that they all cure by the action of catalysts and have relatively fast curing times. Epoxy resins are not cured by a catalyst but by the

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

chemical reaction between two components. As a result curing times of most epoxies are usually much slower. For this reason they tend to be specified only when their special characteristics of high strength and low shrinkage are particularly useful. It is worth noting that the “Fast Set” resin used in the Boston Tunnel would still cure very much more slowly than any of the catalytically cured resins. * Note: Vinylester is often known as Epoxy Acrylate but this is NOT the same as an Epoxy resin and its characteristics are totally different. What are the relative curing times of these anchors? Typically an injection type of vinyl ester or hybrid resin will cure in about 60 minutes at temperatures between +10 and +20°C; (the same resin used in capsule format will take only about 20 minutes) whereas a “normal” epoxy resin (only available in injection format) may take 12-16 hours at these temperatures. Some epoxy resins include a compound known as “Mercaptan” which endows the resin with a cure time similar to that of an injection resin of the catalytic type along with the most pungent smell you will ever experience. The resin used in the Boston tunnel is not understood to use the Mercaptan component. What is creep? Creep is what happens when a material, which can happily support a load in the short term, cannot support it over the long term. Special “Sustained load” tests have been devised to identify materials

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

poor creep characteristics. with The “Fast Set” version of the resin formulation used in the Boston tunnel had previously failed such a test while the “Standard Set” version had passed. Tests carried out by the NTSB themselves after the accident showed that the “Standard Set” version was capable of sustaining loads in excess of the applied load of the job, with acceptable levels of displacement, while the “Fast Set” version exhibited high displacement rates even with loads lower than the applied load.

NTSB photograph taken after the accident showing other hanger plates that have started to pull away

The fact that the “Fast Set” version had poor creep characteristics is acknowledged by the suppliers who maintain that they had informed the relevant authorities of this during the design stage and were under the impression that it was the “Standard Set” version that had actually been installed in the job. European Technical Approvals (ETAs) are only awarded to resin systems which have passed a sustained load test confirming that the loads quoted in the approval are O.K. for a design life of fifty years. Do resins sold in the UK suffer from creep? The creep characteristics of the resin used in the Boston accident appear to be untypical of the performance of most commonly supplied resins. Certainly, all of the manufacturers I have contacted on this issue assure me that their resins, even their epoxy formulations, are very different to the one involved in the accident. Most European manufacturers now have ETAs awarded to at least one of their resin systems.

What influence did the poor installation procedures have? The NTSB report states that nineteen out of twenty anchors in the area of the failure were found to have voids in the resin coverage of up to 40%, with an average of 10%. A void of 10% is a serious reduction in the bonded area and will lead to a direct reduction in strength. A void of 40% would mean that the safety margin of the anchor in question would be dramatically reduced. Obviously this was a serious omission in the installation procedures but the creep characteristics of this particular resin are such that even if correctly installed these anchors may well have failed anyway. How can I make sure that the resins I supply can be installed overhead? Installing resin anchors overhead is tricky. It depends on the resin being suitable for overhead use in the first place and on the correct technique being used along with the appropriate accessories. A system that has been awarded an ETA for overhead use will have been checked in that mode. Some resin formulations are capable of supporting the weight of the anchor rod as soon as they are injected, others take a few minutes and some much longer. Special plastic cones are available to help retain the resin in the hole. The installation technique is crucial to ensure that the gap between anchor rod and hole is filled with resin and that there is no air entrapped as the injector nozzle is withdrawn. Some systems are available with special flanges on the nozzle to help with this. It is worth noting that capsule anchor resin systems are relatively simple to install overhead as they tend to support their own weight very quickly and the insertion of the resin is easy with little risk of air entrapment. How can I best protect my liability and that of my customers in safety critical applications like this? The simplest way is to only offer an anchoring system which is approved for the use concerned. In the case of an overhead application this could include the consideration of expansion anchors or undercut anchors. A resin bonded anchor with a European Technical Approval (ETA) will have been subjected to the most stringent tests of any anchoring system available and, as long as it is selected according to the design method of the ETA and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions,

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

there should be no risk of a similar failure or one from any other cause. This applies of course to all safety critical applications and not just overhead uses in tunnels. Anchor selection via manufacturer’s software, best carried out by a qualified engineer who understands the requirements of the project, is the best way to safeguard everyone’s liability. Distributors should also be careful when they suggest a change of fixing specification for any safety related usage. Most engineers will consider the proposal for a change but this should only be adopted if the same rigorous selection procedure is followed for the suggested alternative. Carrying out one or two proof tests on site is not sufficient to prove that all the factors taken into account in the design process are satisfied - nor is a quick comparison of recommended loads between catalogues. Once the chosen anchoring system is on site the contractor should have the installers and their supervisors trained in the correct installation methods. Distributors who are not equipped to offer this training should involve the manufacturer who should be able to carry it out. With a job of such a safety critical nature a proof testing regime is a useful tool in making sure that the installations have been made correctly but this regime needs to be carefully designed and any failures investigated to determine the cause so that further failures can be prevented. In Summary The resin used in the accident was of a type not sold in the UK by any major manufacturer of anchor systems. The types of resins used for the vast majority of applications in the UK work on a different chemical system and have acceptable creep characteristics. If well proven resin anchors (e.g. those with an approval) are chosen correctly and installed by trained operatives in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions, there should be no possibility of a similar accident occurring in the UK. For future projects: Choose an anchor with an appropriate to the application.

ETA

Ensure the installers are trained and supervised

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

BoxBolt information is an e-flier Technical information on popular BoxBolt steelwork cavity fixings is now available at the touch of a button from Access Technologies Ltd. The company has designed a new technical e-flier allowing architects, specifiers, structural engineers and contractors to download data instantly via a specially designed email link. The e-flier provides technical information on BoxBolt cavity fixings, which Access Technologies believe is a key strength of its range. The technical information covers the key features, benefits and applications, detailing the types of head available, from the standard hexagonal head through to a button head socket, countersunk option and socket head cap screw. Installation instructions are also included alongside technical data. The e-flier will offer a click-

See us on stand 4. B19

activated link to the BoxBolt technical brochure, the full 28 page BeamClamp 19th-20th September 2007 product catalogue and the BeamClamp website. “This new e-flier provides immediate access to important technical information for designers and specifiers” says Access Technologies’ general manager, Ian Page. “It will help meet the growing demand for information from our customers on a unique product. BoxBolt cavity fixings are the first hot dip galvanised steelwork expansion bolts on the market, and continue to bring enormous installation, durability and corrosion resistance benefits to any application”. A BoxBolt fixing can be used with rectangular, square and even circular hollow sections. Manufactured in M8, M10, M12, M16 and M20 bolt diameters, BoxBolts are available in a choice of three lengths, for each size, to allow for a large fixing range.

Epoxy resins in historical building applications During restoration operations on historic buildings, strengthening works often involve the insertion of metal elements into masonry or wooden structures to stitch up small damage; to join supporting metal elements to existing structures; to join binders to perimeter walls; or to strengthen lofts or wooden roofing. Anchoring, link-ups and stitching can be integrated to the masonry or wood through resin injections. Depending on the application and on the type of material involved, injection anchoring requires different types of intervention. Resin injections are fairly simple when anchoring lengths are less than 1.5metres. For longer lengths, says Italian fixings specialist Bossong, cement mortar injections compatible with the original materials are essential. Thixotropic resins, used normally for anchoring, stops excessive spreading in the wall gaps, but the short curing time complicates the deep extrusion stage. Bossong believes that the use of their BCR-EPOX, epoxy resin, characterised by long hardening and handling times, allows deeper penetration for better anchorage. Resin joints mean only small holes are drilled into the sub-layer, just a few millimetres bigger than the diameter of the metal element. These are not invasive and can even be reversed by drilling a larger diameter. However, mortar applications need larger diameters, which require the use of special diamond core drills. On one hand there are technical and theoretical reasons for deciding when the anchoring should be done with resin or cement

See us on stand 5.2 G41 19th-20th September 2007

mortar. However, those limits are not always so well defined during applications. Many other factors, such as compatibility with original materials, are involved and these can limit the choice of materials or cause feasibility problems. Bossong reports that in Italy their BCR-EPOX, and recently the new size BCR-400 EPOXY 2:1, are amongst the most popular epoxy resins used in strengthening important buildings in historical areas of Rome, Verona, Naples and Venice. Examples include roof restoration at the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Bossong’s home city of Bergamo; the use of Bossong epoxy resin to strengthen the upper tower walls of the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence; and work at the Santa Maria della Scala complex in Siena.

ETA approval for Chemfix Chemfix Products Ltd is proud to announce the award of its first ETA approval for Pure Vinylester Resin, available in 380ml, 345ml and 150ml 10:1 cartridges.

See us on stand 5.2 G26

The unique styrene free resin 19th-20th September 2007 system provides a highly cost effective heavy duty fixing, with high chemical resistance.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

See us on stand 5. J22 19th-20th September 2007

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS

Fischer’s new FH II The FH II is a new high performance sleeve anchor which fischer says offers the highest performance, with excellent load-bearing in both cracked and noncracked concrete. It has a European Technical Approval at Option 1 for use in cracked concrete and F90 fire resistance capability. The FH II offers up to 21% higher permissible tensile load capacity and double the shear load capacity of its predecessor, the FH. This fixing is suitable for

use in situations where the aesthetic appearance is important. Unlike with bolt anchors, where a length of threaded bolt can protrude from the fixing, in the case of the FH II, the head of the fixing will remain flush with the surface, if the countersunk head option is chosen. Other head options include hexagonal head, cap nut and bolt with hexagonal nut. “The FH II high performance anchor offers a winning combination of very high performance in both cracked and non-cracked concrete, together with simple and economical installation and a good aesthetic appearance. It’s a great new addition to our range, which I think will prove popular with many of our construction industry customers,” says Dr Pietro Grandesso, managing director of fischer fixings UK Ltd. The FH II sleeve anchor is available in diameters ranging from 12mm (M8) to 32mm (M24).

Bolt-on girder clamps simplify refurbishment Bolt-on Lindapter girder clamps have helped provide a fast and flexible solution for the refurbishment of the old Cement Mills Viaduct railway bridge on the Isle of Wight, UK.

See us on stand 4. C9 19th-20th September 2007

The project was designed for the Isle of Wight Council by Opus International's Fareham office. Key design considerations were cost effectiveness, durability, and maintainability - combined with the need to protect reed beds below the viaduct that form part of the nature reserve on the site of an old cement mill. For this refurbishment, the previous walkway surface was stripped off to get back to the original compound girders. Galvanised beams were laid crosswise onto the two primary girders, to provide a platform for the decking. These beams were attached using Lindapter's girder clamps, which simply bolt on - avoiding any need to modify the original structure. Epoxy-encapsulated plywood decking panels were then laid on top of these beams to provide the walkway surface, and a safety parapet.

Opus International's project manager, Andy Traves, explains his design: "For economy, flexibility of implementation, and maintainability, we decided on a highly 'componentised' design for the upgrade. The Lindapter clamps meant we could attach beams simply, without welding or drilling. The modularity of the design also makes it simple to maintain - a spare part can be made ready, and replaced easily and cost effectively using local scaffolding."

The one from Rawlplug Rawlplug has been manufacturing plastic plug products for over 50 years and now markets its premium branded UNO product as a truly universal plug, which fixes into any substrate - hollow, solid, plasterboard, any ceiling, wall or floor and is suitable for all light-medium weight fixing tasks. UNO has a unique design with expansion throughout the length of the plug giving instant grip, anti rotation & improved performance. Improved feel is achieved through increase in resistance as it is fixed so UNO cannot be over-tightened. Rawlplug also says that UNO works in oversized and slightly worn holes too.

See us on stand 5. L5

UNO plugs are available in both polypropylene & Nylon, for heavier 19th-20th September 2007 applications, or for commercial environments where load or fire resistance is an issue. UNO is available in retail packs of 96 & trade packs of 288 or bulk packs of 1,000. In addition to the UNO range, Rawlplug has a standard range of plastic plugs for all purposes and cost effective fixings for medium & lightweight applications. Plastic plugs have profiled bodies for extra grip, anti rotation fins and are available in 5, 6 & 7mm sizes. For fixing of lightweight loads, Rawlplug also has the HDPE range of plugs, available in 5, 6 & 7mm.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

not only resin

easy&strong

Resina Poliestere e Vinilestere senza stirene Polyester and Vinylester resin styrenfree Cartucce da 300 e 165 ml. con sistema a sacchetto 300 ml. and 165 ml. cartridges in tubolar foil Utilizzo con normale pompa per silicone Standard silicon pump required

BOSSONG S.p.A. Zona Industriale 2 - Via E. Fermi, 51 - 24050 GRASSOBBIO (Bergamo) Italy Tel +39 035 3846 011 - Fax +39 035 3846 012 - info@bossong.com www.bossong.com

FOCUS ON

BeamClamp

Bossong SpA

Beamclamp configuring software unveiled to German market BeamClamp’s revolutionary steelwork fixing design software makes its mainland European debut on Stand B19 at this year’s Fastener Fair in Stuttgart. Visitors will be able to try out the new Personal Assembly Tool in a special interactive display on the Stand to see how, in three easy steps, they can significantly save time when configuring and designing structures using the BeamClamp range. Available in the German market from Kee Klamp GmbH, BeamClamp fixings are ideal for securing secondary steelwork to primary steelwork in construction, engineering and HVAC applications without the need for any on-site welding, thereby saving time and cost. The unique Personal Assembly Tool allows engineers to enter key information, such as the type and size of steelwork to be connected and the load to be carried. Using this information, the innovative software then automatically configuring the connection and relevant BeamClamp components required, helping to dramatically speed up design time and ease the process of product specification. On the Stand visitors can trial this versatility, speed and accuracy for themselves and see the results displayed. Tel: 0049 (0) 6109/5012-0 www.beamclamp.com

Deltaleigh

Bossong offer a large and professional range of Powder Actuated Tools since 1962. During our 45th anniversary we introduce into the market a new generation of Powder Actuated Tools. We will start with the automatic BOSS-8000 with magazine M75 approved by C.I.P. Institute. This new Tool will replace the in-force BOSS-80B and magazine C75B. The BOSS-60B and magazine C45B will be replaced beginning of 2008 with BOSS-6000 with magazine M45. These tools have power regulator, automatic self-coking piston and automatic cartridge advance system for 6,8/11 strip cartridges green, yellow and red; works fully automatic when nail’s magazine is used. These tools works using the rules of indirect action (low velocity tool); maximal speed of fasteners is smaller then 100 m/s. Re security firing of the cartridges is possible under the pressure of at least 0,17kN (17Kg). Minimal recoil and very low noise thanks to the inside silencer. High power, enabling steel penetration up to 10 mm. Simply maintenance and assembly. Nails suitable: KDH, KDHM, KDRK, KDHR 15, KDHR 23, KDHR 36, KDR, GD6 (M6), GD8 (M8), KDC and KISL, with right guide and base plate. Recently we have added new items like GRAT52 a disk for grating fixings and an M8 threaded nail for steel fixings as well. We have also new strip nails KDHMC for frameworks fixings. Boss-4000 is a semi-automatic P.A.Tool with power regulator, automatic cartridge advance system low noise due to the silencer system, minimal recoil, simple maintenance and assembly. Loads 6.8/11 ML in 10 shots cartridges strip. Nails up to 75 mm. Nails suitable: KR, GBH, G6 (M6) and G8 (M8). The fully range of nails and cartridges is suitable for Competitor’s Tools. Fax: 0039 035 3846 012 www.bossong.com

DiBiTi Fixings

RIGIFIX© Dry lined wall anchor system

A manufacturer of hammer plugs, wall plugs and insulation plugs.

The answer to fixing heavy duty items to a dry lined wall or fibre board wall.

We have: Certificate of quality system managemant ISO 9001-2000 and Certificate of Factory Production Control.

With the ever growing use of Dry lining has come a major problem of how to fix heavy duty items e.g. TV Screens, Kitchen units, radiators etc. without destroying the integrity of the plasterboard, because however the wall is lined you will create a cavity. The patented UK designed Rigifix© solves this problem by transferring the load away from the plasterboard directly into the masonry, leaving the plasterboard to be simply decorative. Drill straight through the plasterboard into the masonry, insert the polypropylene plug, then screw the machine steel, threaded sleeve until fully home, this then leaves an exposed inner threaded hole using the Pozi headed set screw (provided), place through your bracket, simply tighten it home. UK University tests show performances of the M6 Rigifix© holding over 250kg and the M8 Rigifix© over 500kg. The Rigifix© is only available from the UK manufacturers Deltaleigh Ltd who can let you have full details and technical specifications, although potential license holders are being sough for the European markets. For more information or samples, please do not hesitate to contact us: Tel: 0044 (0) 1422 824959

sales@deltaleigh.co.uk

Tel/Fax : 0048 (0) 32 4236516

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

dibiti@dibiti.com.pl

CONSTRUCTION ANCHORS AND FIXINGS fischer fixings UK Ltd. fischer nail anchor – easy fixing in any conditions The fischer FNA II Nail Anchor has been developed to enable straightforward anchoring in any conditions. Drill the hole, strike three times with a hammer, and the FNA II sits tight. It’s as simple as that – and this is the first anchor of this type to boast a European Technical Approval for use in ceilings made from concrete of class C12/15 (B15). The FNA II combines the working principle of a bolt anchor with the principle of Hammerset installation, so there is no need to tighten the anchor after installation. The FNA II is easy to install even in conditions where a difficult working position, poor lighting, muscle strain and the effect of drill dust in the face can sometimes make the installation of other anchor types difficult, even dangerous. Such unfavourable working conditions are frequently encountered during the overhead installation of suspended ceilings, where the less than perfect installation of other anchor types can result in differences in setting performance, both in terms of quality and quantity. The small drill hole diameter and the low anchoring depth save time and money during installation, but the FNA is no lightweight, with retaining values of 1.6kN and a minimum anchoring depth of 25mm. Tel: 0044 (0) 1491 827900

www.fischer.co.uk

ForgeFix

fischer fixings UK Ltd. fischer’s new fh ii – high performance anchor for cracked and non-cracked concrete The FH II is a new high performance sleeve anchor from fischer which offers the highest performance, with excellent load-bearing in both cracked and non-cracked concrete. It has a European Technical Approval at Option 1 for use in cracked concrete and F90 Fire Resistance capability. The FH II offers up to 21 per cent higher permissible tensile load capacity and double the shear load capacity of its predecessor, the FH. The fixing achieves this impressive performance as a result of the interaction between the expansion sleeve and the cone. When the screw or nut is tightened, the cone is pulled into the expansion sleeve and tightens against the inside of the drill hole. Characteristic of fischer’s new generation high performance anchors, the FH II features a black plastic ring. This visual feature indicates the highest performance. Black means safety and ultimate strength. The component itself is made from a high grade material, which absorbs the tightening slip when the anchor is stressed and compensates for any cavities in the anchor plate. The result is a perfectly tight fit within the substrate.

Tel: 0044 (0) 1491 827900

H Schreiber Ltd

Forgefix are proud to announce the launch of our new 2007 product catalogue.

H. Schreiber Limited are proud to announce our versitile & cost effective range of concrete anchors, combining load carrying characteristics with ease of installation.

We have introduced many new lines recently, including Timber Fix Screws, HT Bolts and HT Set Screws. To supplement the Anchors and Fixings selection we have introduced many new sizes of drill bits, as well as a full range of SDS Max. Our Hole Saw range now includes a Diamond Hole Saw Set and a Downlighter Set.

Shield anchors: pressed steel segments ensure consistent dimensional accuracy and positive displacement.

After many years of building our range of screws we now have a complete portfolio which includes: Twinthread, Multipurpose, Self Tappers, Drywall and Drywall Collated screws. Our specialist knowledge on this range has enabled us to produce top quality products at realistic prices. This combined with our professional approach to customer service has led to ForgeFix becoming a major supplier to the Construction and Building trade via our customer base. We have recently launched our dedicated customer online website as well as our general website. To find out more details, to order a catalogue or to request a personal visit please contact us on the following: Tel: 0044 (0) 1663 719460 As a customer visit: www.forgefixonline.co.uk or view our product range in detail on: www.forgefix.co.uk

www.fischer.co.uk

Loose shield bolts: optimum taper nut angle for maximum expansion in all substrates. Through bolts: innovative clip design with external grip feature provides increased anchor performance. Sleeve anchors: drill size marked on sleeve for correct installation. Innovative split sleeve design with external grip feature allows secure fixing in substrates. Drop in anchors: slotted sleeve and captive internal tapered wedge to facilitate easy expansion and setting. We hold large stocks of our extensive range at our West Midlands warehouse.

If you need further details, then call 01582 575727 and speak to our sales staff who will only be too pleased to quote you. You can also visit our website at www.hschreiber.co.uk

FOCUS ON

100

Harrison & Clough Ltd Fixing Solutions from MasonMate Over the last 10 years, MasonMate has dedicated itself to providing the best fixings solutions for the construction industry. Over this period the range had been constantly monitored, reviewed and then developed inline with the needs of both the tradesman and the industry as a whole. Recently re-launched with a new catalogue MasonMate offer the perfect solution for any masonry or concrete application through an extensive range of construction anchors. This technically advancing range includes an array of Through bolts, Sleeve anchors, Shield anchors, Heavy-Duty anchors, Drop In Wedge anchors and most recently Chemical anchors. The MasonMate anchors range highlights a variety of features from internal threaded expansion for a secure fit, through fixings for a faster installation, heavy-duty fixings for safety critical applications to injection resins for awkward materials or where access may be difficult. Not only do Masonmate offer established construction anchors and metal fixings, but the range also includes Screwbolts, Concrete screws, Masonry nails, Light Duty Nylon fixings and Cavity fixings to name but a few. Masonmate is just one of the brand names available from the Mates range, combined with TimberMate and MetalMate the range spans over 40 different product catagories. For more information on MasonMate or any of the Mate range, please contact our exclusive distributor H&C on 0870 8892222.

Lindapter Lindapter – the clamping system for steelwork and hollow sections since 1934. Lindapter’s latest offering is the M24 Type AF which is set to revolutionize the fixings market for high strength friction and tensile load applications. The new product guarantees load capacities in tension of up to 62.5 kN per clamp and up to 35kN per pair of clamps in friction. The new clamps can be used with either grade 8.8 or grade 10.9 bolts. The Lindapter AF range is cast from high strength SG Iron and hot dip galvanized as standard. – In summary the new clamp offers the same tensile loads as the traditional Lindapter clamps in M30 and M36, but require a 15% lower torque for installation. The profile nose of the Type AF also enables various tapers of beam flanges to be accommodated (max 10°). Like all other Lindapter products they are designed to eliminate the need for drilling or welding steelwork and preserving its integrity, they also allow for ease of fitting and flexible adjustment during installation. This is yet another successful innovation based on decades of experience, close customer relationship and thorough work of Lindapter’s in-house R&D department.

Tel: (UK) 0044 (0) 1274 521 444 Tel: (Germany) 0049 (0) 201 214 778

LIEBIG Liebig Heavy-Duty Anchoring – The programme for the professional One of the leading companies worldwide in the field of heavy-duty anchoring. With pride, we can look back at 60 years of advocating and supporting industry standards. To this day, the Liebig safetybolt is a dependable heavy-duty anchoring product. The success of the safetybolt and the experiences in the field of heavy-duty anchoring lead to a worldwide company with manufacturing facilities in Germany and Ireland. Even today, the company paves the way for new technologies. Liebig developed the undercut system for extremely high loads in cracked concrete. Complex anchoring requirements in nuclear power plants for example, demand particularly reliable anchors that accept high-load capacities – the classic area of application for the original undercut anchor, ultraplus. With these undercut anchors, physical structures are protected from dynamic loads in earthquake-prone regions. In addition, Liebig developed the first and so far, the only undercut system superplus with self undercutting, mechanical interlock. In this case, without the use of additional tools an undercut is created in the concrete, by dropping the anchor into the cleaned, drilled hole and applying the required torque. This way, mechanical interlock ensures high-load capacities. With this innovative anchoring system, Heinrich Liebig Stahldübelwerke enters the 21st century continuing its record of accomplishment for the company. Tel: 0049 (0) 6157 / 9868-0

www.liebig-duebel.de

Mage AG MAGE AG is a specialized Swiss manufacturer whose task is to be a partner and a guarantee for quality in the demanding field of the building industry. We are producing fasteners in Switzerland since more than 30 years ago and we offer a complete program of bimetal austenitic stainless steel self-drilling fasteners for steel building. Our topex programme represents the cutting edge of today’s technology in the European market. topex‚ Self-drilling fasteners in carbon and bimetal stainless steel for roofing and cladding as well as for industrial applications with drilling capacity in steel up to 18mm. topex‚-ufo Ultra-low head-design self-drilling fasteners in carbon and bimetal stainless steel offering an aesthetic solution for visible fixations. Further to our wide range of self-drilling fasteners we have the possibility to powder paint our fasteners or to NYCO-over mould our hex-head fasteners. We provide Swiss precision fasteners with high quality that has been widely approved by International approval authorities and by leading building system manufacturers. For further specification, technical or product assistance, please contact us. sales@mage.ch

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

www.mage.ch

CONSTRUCTION ANCHORS AND FIXINGS Simes Senco S.A.

Simes Senco S.A.

Quimisim (Chemicals) Range

Fisim (Rivets)

SIMES Group is a medium size group of companies which is dedicated to the design and production of innovative fastening solutions on an international level. Among its products, the QUIMISIM range is the result of intensive research and development in the field of chemical fastening technology over a decade. The injection anchoring with TWO component reactive resin mortar is designed with a high performance formulations to achieve the ETA option 7 certification and provide support to an extend customer base at both the Private Label and/or Quimisim Label format.

Tel: 0034 (0) 948 335266

export@simes.es

Woodall Fastening Systems Woodall Fastening Systems continue to grow in the roofing and cladding market. This market requires high quality fixings at all times. Service and Price complete the requirements for this highly competitive industry. At Woodall’s we are proud to offer our range of fixings as follows: Bi-Metal Stainless Steel Self Drilling Screws offer all the benefits of a stainless steel screw with the strength of a carbon self-drilling point. These APPROVED ranges of fasteners are covered by our warranty backed product liability insurance. Ruspert Coated Self Drilling Screws offer a long life coating of up to 1000 hours. We have extensive ranges of sizes to suit all applications including composite and built up, twin skin systems, and they are available for hot and cold rolled steel applications. This range is also APPROVED and covered by our warranty backed product liability insurance. Moulded Head Screws. With our own in house moulding facilities working around the clock we can mould almost any colour onto any screw. Having our own facilities offers us greater flexibility and offers a much higher level of service and quality control for our customers. Rustpert coated concrete screws are used in concrete applications. This range of screws have become very popular because of their extensive range of uses. Our range also includes Carbon Steel Self Drilling Screws and Wing Drilling Screws for both light and heavy steel, together with silicones, sealants and lap tapes for most Roofing and Cladding applications. We hold large stocks of our extensive range at our West Midlands warehouse. If you need further details, then call 01384 263900 and speak to our sales staff who will only be too pleased to quote you. You can also visit our website at www.techscrew.com

FISIM is part of SIMES Group, a medium size group of companies, dedicated to the design and production of innovative fastening solutions on an international level. From our leading position in the Spanish market of fixing systems, our aim is to expand further into European and Worldwide markets with the extensive Riveting product range to meet our customer needs and exceed their expectations.

Tel: 0034 (0) 948 335266

export@simes.es

Next Issue... November 2007

FOCUS ON... Nuts, Washers and Locking systems

Highlight a product or application in the November FOCUS ON. This offers a cost effective opportunity to target your core audience. Each entry includes a 200 word description, a high resolution image, and most importantly your contact details. Your company can have a presence from as little as £250/€370. For more information please contact Harry Whyte

Tel 0044 (0) 1727 739 150

Email: harry@fastfair.net

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

102

Matching furnace type to production needs by Michael K. Klauck, P.Eng., CAN-ENG Furnaces The issue of furnace type is one of increasing complexity as furnace builders continue to develop new technology that meets the ever-exacting needs of customers. This has led to a wide variety of furnace styles over the years, with some designs losing favour and others continuing to evolve over time. Much consideration has to be afforded at the conceptual furnace stage to ensure that production needs are ultimately met. Some of the factors that need to be considered are the following: • • • • • • • •

Production capacity Thermal cycle Metallurgical process Part geometry, orientation, and chemical composition Method of heating Part cosmetic requirements Sub-surface conditions (i.e. Carburizing or Carbo-Nitriding etc.) Temperature uniformity

Production capacity The primary consideration in furnace type is the production capacity requirements as expressed in lbs/hr, parts/hr, tons per day or some other definitive production rate. This information will determine the furnace style; batch or continuous. A batch furnace is better suited to lower production volumes while a continuous furnace lends itself to higher production demands. If volumes warrant a continuous furnace system, then one must determine what type of high temperature furnace conveyor will match the part configuration and geometry. Semi-continuous furnace systems are also available and offer continuous processing at intermittent cycles.

Thermal cycle The thermal cycle is the time/temperature profile that the product undergoes during its production run. This consists of the heat up to temperature and any associated intermittent hold, plus the specified hold time at an elevated temperature. This could be the solution treating temperature for aluminum products or austenitise temperature for steel products. Metallurgical process / mechanical – metallurgical properties While the thermal cycle dictates the time/temperature profile, the metallurgical process specifies what is to be accomplished during heat treating, for example: annealing, quench and temper, vacuum carburize, blueing or bright annealing, etc. This will influence the method of heating (indirect or direct gas fired, electric etc.) and the need for a process atmosphere(s). The requirement for attaining a specified structure, as well as defined mechanical properties and hardness traverse profiles are commonplace today. Part orientation, geometry and chemical composition If we compare the physical size of

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

automotive fasteners with a 78 inch 60 ton ingot, one can quickly appreciate the differences between the two. The part orientation and geometry has a sizeable influence on the type of high temperature furnace conveyor chosen and the ability to achieve a given time/temperature profile. The chemical composition of the part does play a role in determining heat up calculations as certain grades of steel have lower thermal conductivity than others (i.e. tool steels). The specific heat capacity as defined by the energy required to raise 1 lbs of material 1 degree Fahrenheit (Btu/lbs F), varies across alloy families and needs to be taken into consideration when doing a proper heat balance for the furnace system. Method of heating In North America most systems are natural gas (usually 85% methane and 15% ethane) fired. Depending on the equipment location, certain jurisdictions have favorable power rates and in those locales it makes greater economic sense to go with an electric system. In high temperature (>1,850 F) atmosphere or vacuum furnaces the method of heating is nearly always electric as it is difficult to

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MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

radiant tubes (indirect fired systems) that provide find reasonable service life, however in some applications silicon carbide is now a viable option. For gas fired systems one area of great interest has been recuperative or regenerative burners. Burgeoning markets like India and China require furnaces to be heated with fuel oils, some with very high sulphur contents. Part cosmetic requirements Direct fired furnaces have POC’s (products of combustion) in contact with parts being heated. Electrically heated or indirect fired atmosphere furnaces are usually either inert (nitrogen, argon or helium) or combustible (neutral carrier or carburizing gas), and are typically produced by atmosphere generators (exothermic gas or endothermic gas) or from the decomposition of nitrogen methanol at furnace temperatures. Vacuum furnaces draw air from the furnace chamber and heat under vacuum or an inert atmosphere. All of these systems exist due to the requirements for part cleanliness and/or sub surface treatment as dictated by the customer or end-user.

generation equipment, piping, safety and design considerations must be taken into account when running such cycles. Temperature uniformity Furnace builders are encountering increasingly stringent requirements for tighter temperature control. In some instances these needs are valid. In many others, it is driving the price of the equipment higher when a wider temperature uniformity tolerance could be completely acceptable. While this is not intended to be a complete or definitive list, hopefully the reader has an appreciation for some of the key factors that influence furnace design and ultimately the ability of the furnace to meet the customer’s production needs.

Sub-surface conditions Very often automotive parts (gears, fasteners, and stampings) have requirements for case work, whether that is carburizing, carbonitriding or some other process. This requires that the carbon potential of the furnace atmosphere is high enough to meet the case carbon depth and micro-hardness criteria. Special atmosphere

Are you sure the heat treatment is right? by John Houseman and Dr John Newnham Confederation of British Metalforming, www.britishmetalforming.com Steel bolts and screws of property classes 10.9 and 12.9 require heat treatment to a standard defined in ISO898/1. It is often vital for these fasteners to be heat treated correctly to ensure that their properties are at the expected level. Some essential metallurgical requirements after heat treatment are below. Core hardness is specified to give the tensile strength and hardness properties required by the standard, so there must be good temperature control and consistent quench. Failure to harden correctly through incorrect furnace temperature or quenchant can lead to low finished part strength, and possible fracture or failure in the service application. Higher strength than specified can lead to increased susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement, and potential delayed failure. Surface carburisation is not allowed - this is defined in ISO898 by limiting the amount by which the surface hardness exceeds the core hardness to 30HV. The major reason for this is that it increases the potential for hydrogen embrittlement, especially in combination with high core hardness. Carburisation also gives a brittle surface easier to initiate fatigue or tensile stress cracks. The variation of fatigue resistance with surface hardness is shown in figure 1. So correct atmosphere control in heat treatment is essential, and in particular, the carbon potential must be compatible with the steel being treated.

Figure 1. Variation in fatigue life with surface hardness for a 0.40C steel with core hardness 43 Rc (From data presented by SPS Technologies Inc)

Surface decarburisation. The depth of any fully decarburised layer may not exceed 0.015mm, 0.0006”. Although the soft surface is more forgiving in preventing crack initiation, it is believed that free ferrite at the thread surface will cause a reduction in fatigue properties (figure 1). However thread strength may be affected where there is a deep partially decarburised layer, as shown in

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

See us on stand

5.2 G27 19th-20th September 2007

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

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figure 2, and ISO898 limits the permissible amount. There is also the possibility of galling that might result with a soft thread surface. So the surface chemistry has to be controlled well, and modern equipment can ensure correct atmosphere control, which will prevent excessive decarburisation.

higher hardness at the surface can be achieved with carbo-nitriding. The temperature and speed of throughput determine the depth of case hardness, and applications such as 'drill' screws, which benefit from a hard shallow case, utilise this facility.

Figure 3. Instrumentation panel on a modern continuous furnace Photo: HHT (Midlands)

Figure 2. Example of thread decarburisation (Supplied by D.Bainbridge, Rotech Labs.Ltd)

Quench cracking. Some steels have the potential for quench cracking, especially carbon steels with above 0.4%C and alloy steels with above 0.35%C. This can occur at sharp changes in section, and needs correct choice and control of quench medium. It is even advisable for sensitive steels not to allow quench cooling below 125°C before they are transferred to tempering, and quench speed will also be a significant factor. The speed of the quench process can be controlled by the composition of the oil, percentage of accelerator used and the circulation and temperature of the quenchant. Consistency in this regard is paramount to ensure CpK of 4.5 and greater.

The modern continuous furnace technology allows for part tracking to an extent difficult to achieve previously, providing 24/7 reporting back to both heat-treater and customer alike via an internet link. This information is also essential for the traceability of safety critical components used in the automotive sector, where every aspect of the process from hardening temperature, time at temperature, quench temperature, and tempering time and temperature, can be accessed long after the parts have been despatched for assembly into the vehicles. In summary, heat treatment control is essential for the safety and durability of fasteners in service, because of its influence on fastener properties. The modern furnace instrument technology now available gives the opportunity of ensuring that fasteners are heat treated correctly.

Heat treatment equipment. Furnace types will have an influence on the consistency of heat treated properties. Continuous furnaces should give a more consistent product and process capacities of up to 3 tonnes per hour are in use by the sub contract heat treatment industry today. These modern furnaces incorporate sophisticated atmosphere control systems. Using the latest oxygen probes, a highly controlled carbon potential in the atmosphere can provide the opportunity to repair partial decarburisation in the original wire surface, whereas inert atmospheres do not. However, with such fine control of the furnace atmosphere applications which require a Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

Figure 4 Typical modern control panel detail

See us on stand

5.2 G27 19th-20th September 2007

See us on stand

5.2 G40 19th-20th September 2007

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MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY SAFED joins AICHELIN group Two leading players in heat treatment have joined forces. On August 7, 2007, AICHELIN GmbH., situated at Mödling, Austria, acquired full ownership of Four Electrique Delémont S.A. (SAFED), headquartered in Delémont, Switzerland. SAFED remains an independent enterprise within the AICHELIN group and with an annual turnover of around 15 million euros will be an important member of the group, which had gross turnover in 2006 of 95 million euros. Announcing the acquisition AICHELIN noted that the move will provide SAFED with a strong economic background and that it will be a valuable addition to the AICHELIN product range. For customers, the new partnership means more choice of products from one source and additional service. SAFED has a strong standing and a long tradition as a manufacturer of industrial furnaces for heat treatment of precision small parts in the various industrial fields, including bearings, fasteners, automotive and machine components, and the watch-

and-clock-making industry. This constitutes a valuable addition for AICHELIN, itself a supplier of thermal processing plants and induction heating plants for the automotive and transmission industry, industrial hardening shops, for fastening technology as well as the bearings and semi-finished products industry. The addition of wire belt furnace plants to its portfolio makes AICHELIN into a comprehensive supplier of heat treatment facilities with regard to part dimensions, throughput and applied technologies. Under the new ownership, SAFED will have access to AICHELIN's global network of production facilities and sales offices in Europe, the USA, South America and Asia. Customers will also benefit from the bundling of the two companies' entire process engineering know-how. Aichelin says the research and development capacity of the new partners in heat treatment technology will also receive a strong boost and new strength with the new union. In the run-up to this acquisition, management took a close look at the business model and the values of both companies. The review concluded there is an excellent strategic fit not only in terms of market approach but also with regard to the reliability of products and services, and to sound technical know-how, which are of utmost importance to both companies alike.

New hybrid sensors from SK SK’s new generation of process monitors offers two significant developments for improved failure detection and ease of operation: hybrid sensors and puzzle technology. Hybrid sensors define an entirely new approach by being able to sense both force and acoustic emission signals, with the same sensor. Tests have proven that hybrid sensors are far superior in detecting smaller failures, such as tool breakages or even cracked parts, compared to conventional load sensors. The new puzzle technology aims at reducing the previous operational complexity down to merely pressing a few buttons, which select a suitable monitoring program for a given job. Every puzzle piece incorporates the expert know-how and the experience of many different applications. The operator only needs to decide which difficult-to-detect type of error he is expecting, or if his forming operation requires special treatment.

The final monitoring puzzle is easily composed by picking the suitable puzzle piece for each forming station from the available catalogue of pieces. It takes just a few button presses to obtain a perfectly matched monitoring package, with a high degree of error detection. Once found to be a good working puzzle, this is saved into memory under the respective part number and is ready to be re-used the next time the part runs.

Zwick put Phillips into aerospace

understanding of the needs of customers and is collaborating with many leading aerospace organisations.

Zwick Roell Group has announced that it has recently appointed David Phillips to co-ordinate all global activities relating to its presence in the aerospace industry. David joined the Zwick organisation in 1982, fulfilling a number of important roles in the UK and, more recently, as managing director of its Asia-Pacific headquarters. In his new role as vice president of, corporate marketing, he brings both a technical and commercial

Zwick delivers complete solutions, developed specifically for the needs of aerospace and related organisations where precision, reliability, flexibility, ease of use and first class technical support are the minimum requirements. Products include the latest technology in materials and component testing software, digital contact and non-contact extensometry, customised tooling and fixtures, and personal consultation through its dedicated team of application experts.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

Manufacturers & Designers of Thread Rolling Dies Knurls & Engineer’s Chasers

EJOT Delta PT

TAPTITE®

www.mayesandwarwick.com contact us via email: sales@mayesandwarwick.com tel: +44 (0)1543 682561 fax: +44 (0)1543 686232

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MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY PTMS & digifast® delivers 100% traceability Combining the Permanent Mounted Tranducer System from Intellifast GmbH with digifast®, links bolted joints seamlessly to ultrasonic measurement technology.

assembly. This precise control means that an easy and nondestructive clamp load measurement can be taken during initial tightening and subsequent inspection of critical bolted joints. Now digifast® technology provides ultrasonic fastener information in a barcode on each bolt, in addition to a serial number, and a range of assembly relevant data, such as target load, as well as other customer specific information, like the bolt supplier. A laser process is used to apply a permanent high contrast code to the bolt. With this information stored any bolt can reliably be identified and precisely measured. A data matrix reader allows bolt load measurement to be assessed in any bolt, at any time, with any Intellifast load measurement device. No previous documentation (reference readings) is required to use the ultrasonic measurement tool because of the data stored in the digifast® code. The load in any bolt, at any time, can be instantly and precisely measured and it is simple to select a specific fastener for inspection.

PTMS uses a measuring pin, which is integrated in a standard tightening tool, to measure an accurate clamp load directly during

Digifast® technology is licensed by Schrauben Betzer GmbH & Co. KG

Corus expands across Europe

machining and cold-heading steels,” says sales manager, Grant McBain. “The rate of adoption of our steel here has been faster than we have seen anywhere else in the world, with sales last year up by almost 70%." Supporting this eastern expansion is the network of Corus offices across the region. There are now knowledgeable Corus representatives working in Prague, Budapest, Kiev and Moscow.

The growing markets of Central and Eastern Europe are opening up exciting new opportunities for Corus, the international steel company. Over the past year, Corus has doubled the volume of automotive component steels it supplies into the region and tripled its customer base. Consistent supplies of wire rod are now being delivered into Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Slovenia, where Corus says it has attracted a host of new customers in the past 12 months. A first batch of high-quality steel has also been sent into Russia, opening up a new supply route into a market that Corus expects to grow substantially in the coming years. "There are some major car plants in the region and the market is growing strongly. We are supplying a range of automotive spring,

Through collaboration with the University of Gent in Belgium, Corus’ wire rod business is also exploring optimum logistics routes into Eastern Europe and beyond. “We are working with academics and customers to develop supply-chain strategies that will enable us to offer UK levels of service and availability across Europe,” says Grant McBain. Grant adds: "We know we have the quality of product demanded by customers in the area, and we are building our cultural understanding through local offices."

RLS Tooling planning further investment RLS Tooling Ltd has announced that due to the success of its thread rolling dies in the global market, it is in discussion with CNC machinery manufacturers to make further investment in new machinery later this year. RLS Tooling believes that its policy of continuous improvement and treating its customers as partners has helped it achieve this next stage of its expansion programme. “We look ahead to a bright future where we hope to develop more partnerships with other screw and bolt manufacturers in the

worldwide market, either direct with our office in the UK or via one of our local agents” the company says. RLS Tooling is a licensed Taptite thread rolling die supplier and offers a full range of Taptite 2000, Duo Taptite, Taptite II, Taptite CA, Powerlok and Plastite dies. RLS Tooling also has the licence to manufacture dies for the Remform range of fasteners and hope to start making them later in the year. The company also has years of experience in dies for making bolts for use in concrete and other building materials, including some, such as the Excalibur Screwbolt, that are licenced parts.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

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MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY LaserLab™ – Improves quality, saves time and money The old adage, “Quality does not cost, it pays!” is usually taken with a grain of salt, but in the case of the LaserLab™, General Inspection says, all doubt has been removed. Delicate hand gages requiring routine calibration, including micrometers, calipers, thread gauges and optical comparators have been superseded by one compact system.

• Routine sampling is assured with operator ID and time of checks being recorded. • USB ports for data from other devices like hardness, tensile, chemistry, etc. • Networked directly to Gi for future up-grades or troubleshooting. • Automatic NIST traceable calibration before every part inspection.

High volume cylindrical parts are typically made from expensive CNC lathes, cold headers and screw machines. Conventional first article inspections typically require several minutes or sometimes even hours to generate reports.

See us on stand

5. N21 19th-20th September 2007

Anything that can reduce downtime (and scrap) reflects favourably on the bottom line. It’s easy to see that idle machines do not make money, but that’s only part of it. General Inspection says that the new LaserLab™ has many additional advantages, including: • Human error (reproducibility problems) eliminated. • Accurately dimensioned “blue print” of every part stored in memory. • Length, straightness, diameter, measurements (system 22).

taper,

and

thread

• Little operator skill or training required. • Less downtime for first article and SPC only requires seconds per part. • Data stored and always available on network to resolve disputes.

IFI receives contribution from machinery show The International Fastener Machinery & Suppliers’ Association has contributed US$53,000 to the Industrial Fastener Institute. The contribution was part of a contractual arrangement for IFI’s endorsement and promotion of the IFE show held in Cleveland in May. IFMSA executive director Ray Zirkle said, “We welcome the opportunity to make a contribution to the efforts of IFI in support of the fastener industry.” IFMSA chairman, Ray Sullivan, concurred, adding, “We’re machinery manufacturers and suppliers of materials, tooling, components and services for the fastener industry. It’s in our best interests to support the work of IFI—and we’re happy to do it. The role of IFMSA—and particularly the recent IFE show—is not to make a profit, but to provide a forum and marketplace for our members to display and demonstrate the latest products and equipment to fastener manufacturers.” Sullivan is president of Elgin, IL-based Cinco Industries, Inc., a manufacturer of cold heading and thread rolling machinery. Rob Harris, managing director of IFI, said, “We sincerely welcome

and appreciate the financial support. IFMSA’s IFE show is the only event that actively supports the industry in this way. We will put these funds to good use in our continuing efforts in industry training, standards development, and the important work we do in Congress to ensure passage of favourable legislation that impacts the fastener industry.” Founded in 1931, IFI is an association of the leading North American manufacturers of bolts, nuts, screws, rivets, and all types of special formed parts. Associate members include suppliers of equipment, materials, and services commonly used in fastener manufacturing. IFI continues to advocate for stringent adherence to quality standards and procedures for the manufacture of fasteners, and to promote overall fastener quality in the marketplace. IFMSA, a global trade organisation, has represented and promoted the best interests of the fastener manufacturing industry since 1992. Members include the leading suppliers of manufacturing machinery, tooling, testing, packaging, raw materials, and systems and controls used in the production of fasteners and precision formed parts.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

See us on stand 5.2 H30 19th-20th September 2007 CERT No. FM85086

CTR Carbide Dies Ltd is a AS/EN9100 and ISO9001 accredited company who are members of the SBAC and MAA associations. Established in 1973 and located in the heart of England, CTR Carbide Dies Ltd provides a complete machine-tool supply service supplying into the Aerospace, Automotive, Rail and Construction industry. Our services include CNC, wire and spark erosion, milling, softhard diamond turning, our grinding shops have over 50 machines from cylindrical, surface and internal also we have a variety of lapping, horning and polishing machines.

We continue to invest in the latest machining techniques and our ongoing training programmes ensure that we continue to stay at the forefront of a competitive market place. We offer a complete service, which give our customers the option of a sole source of supply if required.

7 Port Hope Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham, West Midlands, England, B111JS Tel: +44 (0)121 772 0817 or: +44 (0)121 773 9135 Fax: +44 (0)121 773 9342 Email: info@ctr-uk.com

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MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY New Videx cold formers Videx has launched a new line of single or multiple die hand feed cold formers. The machines are designed for production of small and medium size batches of long headed, shouldered or extruded parts. The Videx cold formers are available with 1, 2 or 3 heading stations and in tonnage rating from 50 tonnes up to 300 tonnes. A threading station is optional on all models. The feed of the parts is done either from the front (for straight parts) or from the side (for bent parts that need to be collated or headed close to the bend). Videx designed the machines for a very quick and simple change-over. The whole gripper die block lifts up pneumatically and die change can be performed outside the machine. The heading tools are reachable from the side and can be changed in a couple of minutes.

The position of the blank is precise due to the retractable positive stop, and the stroke is fully adjustable by turning a big wheel at the back of the machine. When supplied as a fully automatic machine, the machine will also straighten, cut to length and optionally thread the parts.

Voestalpine Draht Finsterwalde GmbH: The production of drawn wire in Finsterwalde, Germany, started five decades ago and provides the basis of today’s voestalpine Draht Finsterwalde GmbH. Nine months ago the former Finsterwalde GmbH wire mill was incorporated into voestalpine, the Austrian based international steel group. Together, with voestalpine Austria Draht, the two businesses are the biggest producers of cold heading wires in Europe. Aside from this core product, Finsterwalde produces iron wire, free-cutting steel wire, roller bearing and welding wire. voestalpine Draht Finsterwalde produces approx 95,000 tons of drawn wire a year in the dimension range of 2mm – 35mm. All this

happens in a purpose built manufacturing site with optimised production logistics. There is a special focus on in-house training of future key personnel, reflected in a current group of 14 apprentices. voestalpine believes this combination of young vigour with the experience of long term staff members ensures a good boost for the future development of the company. Focus on new developments and the latest technologies in combination with continuous investments ensures the mill is a state of the art production site, which is certified according to ISO 16949 and also complies to environmental standard ISO 14001.

Controlling rotating head formers This type of header is used when the fastener shank remains unchanged after the first stage of the forming cycle. The dies are arranged similar to bullets in the revolving drum of a gun. During the drum’s rotation, each die first loads the wire being cut and then it carries the part during the subsequent steps, avoiding the need for transfer fingers. A disadvantage of this type of machine is that each die may produce differing dimension parts, unless it is individually adjusted. The new Eldes program for the control of these machines allows the user to treat the production of each part as a separate line. The system continues to utilise piezoelectric sensors to monitor the force developed from the punches, but is able to control the different dies individually.

The first advantage of this system, according to Eldes, is better sensitivity in relation to process unconformities, due to the fact that it is no longer necessary to take into account the difference from one die to another while determining the control limits.

See us on stand

5. L31 19th-20th September 2007

A second advantage is that it allows for faster machine setup taking into account not only the final result of each “production line”, but also the measurements coming from the individual dies. The new approach from Eldes includes the possibility to retain previously installed sensors, which makes it attractive for existing headers and provides the opportunity for them to play an enhanced role in the factory’s range of equipment.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

& No Riveting – Self-piercing Hardened Self-Clinching Fasteners ● Press Nuts ● Binding screws ● Rivet Bushes ● Prestincerts ● Eccentric studs ● Floating Nuts

Autonic Engineering Co. Ltd Salisbury Rd. Rye Park, Hoddesdon, EN11 0HU Tel: 01992 471101 Fax: 01992 471102 Email: enquires@autonic.co.uk www.autonic.co.uk

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APPLICATIONS

Wind of change brings supply chain challenges

Wind energy is now officially the fastest growing energy source in the world. With economic as well as environmental pressures driving the move to sustainability, the global growth of the wind energy sector is posing supply chain challenges that manufacturers are gearing up to address, working in partnership with the global turbine manufacturers to ensure that supply can keep pace with demand. With global warming a reality, consumers are becoming increasingly environmentally aware and at many levels are looking for commercial approaches that place less pressure on natural resources. While mass personal choice will, in the long-term, influence providers, it is at government level that the real pressure is starting to be seen. In 2006, the EU set out its vision for an energy strategy for Europe. Declaring that Europe is “entering a new energy landscape”, it identified the need for a more sustainable, efficient and diverse energy mix. In the same year that saw the EU embarking on its mission to create a single energy strategy, the wind power industry achieved record growth. This February, the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) announced a 32% annual growth for 2006 over 2005. Its figures, which include wind

energy developments in more than 70 countries, reported the installation of 15,197 MW, taking the total installed wind energy capacity to 74,223 MW, up from 59,091 MW in 2005. In economic terms the wind energy sector saw a total of some 18 billion euros of new generating equipment installed during 2006. While Europe is still leading the market with 65% of the global total installed capacity, other regions are starting to catch up, with Asia experiencing the strongest growth outside Europe. China more than doubled its total installed capacity, making it the sixth largest market world wide, boosted by the country’s new Renewable Energy Law. In the UK, which saw its first commercial wind farm start generating 15 years ago, a record-breaking 630 new megawatts of wind energy had been commissioned by the end of 2006, a 50% increase on the 2005 performance. According to the British Wind Energy Association, 2007 will be a critical year for the renewables sector: the government’s targets for 10% of UK electricity supplies to come from renewable sources are only three years away. Announcing the global figures for 2006, the GWEC referred to constraints facing supply chains for wind turbines. Amedeo Aversa of engineered access solutions supplier Southco explains: “In the wind turbine industry it is the top 10 global

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

suppliers who drive the market, and the GWEC figures show that growth is genuinely becoming global. This obviously puts pressure on the wind turbine manufacturers to develop global capabilities and it also pushes those pressures down the supply chain. For the manufacturers, it is essential for successful delivery, at such a critical period in the industry’s growth, that they find supply chain partners who can match them in weight, expertise and global coverage.” As Southco points out, strength in one territory alone is insufficient to support an industry that is projecting growth in Europe, North America and Asia. Even the relatively young African and Middle Eastern market saw a 63% growth in 2006 with signs of future development. Aversa continues: “In this context it is even more crucial that there is a perfect fit between

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and their supply partners. Technologically it is a fast-moving environment and it is also one in which product reliability is essential. Manufacturers are looking to suppliers who can offer them global support, with innovative products, that can match the life cycle expectations of the installations they are building. If you were looking for a single phrase to sum this up it would be ‘global connectivity’.” One leading wind turbine manufacturer has described what their organisation is looking for in the supply chain partnership by saying: “We are looking for integrated product development with strategic suppliers who must share, live and implement our mission.” Commercially, wind turbines have to be competitive, well-functioning and delivered on time. With their technological complexity having increased dramatically, reliability is the challenge, with failure not being an option. For Southco, this means the ability to supply critical components to one of the most critical systems on a wind turbine: engineered access components on the electrical pitch system. One of the most vulnerable systems in a wind turbine, the importance of the pitch mechanism is increasing with the development of larger wind turbines. Part of the safety system, it plays a key role in power control and load reduction provisions and it controls the pitch of the blades, to achieve the optimum angle for the wind speed and rotation speed. Southco products help manufacturers solve five key problems: security, vibration control, ease of service, corrosion resistance and cost effectiveness. With a range of solutions on offer, the ‘perfect’ fit solution already chosen by two of the leading OEMs is Southco’s E3 stainless steel vise-action compression latch. Designed specifically for environments where vibration, noise or environmental sealing are a concern, the E3 provides vibration control even in the harshest wind conditions, in-shore and off-shore, with a secure fastening which will not open or come loose

E3 stainless steel vise-action compression latch

accidentally. The E3’s sealing performance, which involves the compression of a gasket, makes it suitable for NEMA 4 and IP65 applications and it has been successfully tested to over 500 hours of salt spray. Other key requirements fulfilled are ease of installation/replacement, tool operation for restricted access, the durability and corrosion resistance of stainless steel. Aversa says: “OEMs see benefits in switching from draw and cam latches to the E3 because of the problems they have experienced. These latching solutions have limitations in the pitch mechanism application because they are difficult to access, given the space constraints in the nacelle, making maintenance a problem. In addition, they are less able to withstand vibration which, due to the nature of the environment, can pose a safety hazard as the vibrations may cause the pitch system enclosure to accidentally open, forcing the wind turbine to stop. The consequence is extremely high downtime costs. Obviously there is a cost factor involved in selecting a highly engineered component, but in the longterm a vise-action compression latch offers substantial performance and durability advantages in these critical applications.”

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

As a strategic supplier to the wind generation industry, Southco predicts a much broader application of its products in systems onboard the wind turbines such as control panels and switchgears. However, it is the company’s global positioning and capabilities that it sees as being its key selling points in this growing international industry. Aversa: “We have listened to what the leading edge OEMs are saying. To fulfil both environmental and economic expectations, they are looking for minimal lifetime costs and the focus has to be on reliability. To meet these requirements, our OEM customers are looking for strategic suppliers who can partner with them, as they move out of the European market into the global world of wind energy and manufacturing. One summarised it by saying that it is a matter of saying goodbye for ever to a local mind set. Globalisation is a concept that Southco has already embraced so we can move forward confident that we have the support infrastructure that these strategic partnerships need. In addition, Southco’s wealth of experience and expertise in demanding industry applications such as electronics, energy equipment and marine provides an immense engineering resource that the Wind Turbine OEMs can leverage in their industry specific engineering challenges.”

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INSIGHT

Hard-Lock – securing against vibration There are some bolted joints, exposed to severe vibration or constant movement, where the risk of loosening simply has to be eliminated – nothing less than complete surety is acceptable. In these applications the consequence of failing to do so may be measurable in human lives. For over 30 years now the Hard-Lock nut has provided the solution. Materials fastened using threaded fasteners are held together by the force of tension generated by the elongation of the bolt shaft (the bolt axis force) and by the force of compression generated in the objects being tightened (the tightening force). These two forces generally remain in balance as long as no external forces are applied to the objects being fastened. In some situations, particularly where the joint is exposed to severe vibration, constant movement or rotational forces, the pretension force originally applied may decrease spontaneously - leading to the fastener loosening, with potentially catastrophic results. In the UK and other countries, nowhere has this risk and its consequences been more clearly demonstrated than in railway applications. There are, though, many other critical areas – whether nuclear installations, oil and gas production, bridges and towers, machinery or automotive. “Hard-Lock technology has provided the ultimate reliable solution for these applications for over 30 years,” says Michael Moore, director at the UK’s exclusive Hard-Lock supplier, Staytite Limited. “Equally important is that Hard-Lock possesses a number of key characteristics that massively reduce the risk of incorrect installation. It does not need to be seated, it is normally re-useable without loss of ability, and it only requires a standard wrench for secure and reliable installation.” The Hard-Lock nut was first manufactured in 1974 in Japan, where it is used extensively on railways, both on track and signaling, and on high-speed locomotives and carriages including the Nozomi trains running on Japan Railways’ Shinkansen high-speed network. These trains initially suffered a series of problems due to bolts loosening as a result of vibration during operation, but since Hard Lock replaced the original nuts, there have been no further problems. More recently, some four million Hard-Lock products were supplied for rail and sleeper connection on the Taiwan Shinkansen line. The product has also been used on the Hong Kong MTR underground system. Nippon Steel, Kobe Steel and several other Japanese steel producers use Hard-Lock for in-plant applications and it is also approved and used by nuclear installations in the country. Leading Japanese corporations also use Hard-Lock in an extensive list of construction, shipbuilding, machinery and energy applications.

These include large numbers of Hard-Lock products used in reinforcement work on the Rokkosan Tunnel in Kobe following the 1995 Great Hanshin Awaji Earthquake. “In the UK Hard-Lock has Certificates of Acceptance from Railtrack and Network Rail, including for use on the adjustable stretcher bars that have been the major focus of concern in relation to vibration loosening following the 2002 Potters Bar rail accident,” says Michael Moore. “Recently Airwave, who provide dedicated telecommunication masts for emergency services have also specified Hard-Lock.” Hard-Lock nuts work on a simple wedge effect, employing a pair of nuts, one convex, one concave (figure 1). The nuts can be used either seated against a surface or positioned at any point along a thread. The lower nut is positioned, and if seated, tightened to the required torque. The second, upper nut, is threaded down the screw until its machined concave recess contacts the off-set tapered cone on the lower nut. While retaining the lower nut with a spanner, if it is not seated, the upper nut is tightened with a standard wrench by about one more turn, or to a tightening torque prescribed by Hard-Lock. This induces a locking torque between the two nuts as a result of the eccentricity between cone and recess.

figure 1 Not only is an installation force created along the axis of the fastener, but also a force is induced perpendicular to the axis. The first fastening nut generates axial torque in the same way as a conventional nut. As the second locking nut is tightened, the offset cone creates a wedge effect generating force perpendicular to

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

ALLBOLTS LTD

Unit 18 Fortress Close, Brome Industrial Estate, Eye, Suffolk IP23 7HN

Tel: 01379 872910 Fax: 01379 872915

allbolts@btconnect.com

Hose Clip and Clamp Manufacturers in Birmingham UK Established 1978

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the axis, which pushes the convex nut against the screw thread. Effectively the lower nut is pulled into the screw threads in one direction, while the upper nut is pulled in the opposite direction (figure 2).

comparative tests on a range of self-locking nuts to DIN 25201, using a Junker transverse vibration test machine. The objective of the test was to determine the time taken for the clamp load on the joint to be released and to measure the extent to which each nut subsequently self-loosened. The graphs shown on this page tell the story. “The unit cost of the Hard-Lock nut, is inevitably higher than other all metal self-locking nut systems,” concedes Michael Moore. “However, when you take into account a minimal requirement for maintenance inspection, the elimination of post installation service costs, and their safe reusability the use of Hard-Lock is a realistic, economic proposition in a wide range of vibration and loosening prone applications. And all of that is without any consideration for the safety implications of a joint loosening or failing in a critical application or the losses that can be incurred as a result.”

figure 2 Installation of the nuts in reverse creates the same equally powerful self-locking effect, which is intrinsic regardless of whether there is any gap remaining between the two nuts. The result is a product that has established broad-based trust in the most critical applications as locking nuts that never loosens regardless of the degree of vibration to which they are exposed. Repeated usage does not reduce the locking ability of Hard-Lock nuts, nor will there be undue wear on either the nuts or the thread of the screw as a result of repeated removals and subsequent reinstallations. In addition to the cost benefits this presents, together with the installation using standard tools, Hard Lock nuts deliver long-term economy because they do not require regular maintenance checks.

Hard-Lock nuts are available from Staytite in a standard size range from M6 to M36. Other thread forms are possible and Hard-Lock nuts are manufactured up to M125 or equivalent. Standard materials are low carbon steel or high carbon steel - supplied unplated, zinc plated or hot dip galvanized – or AISI 304 and 316 stainless steel. Production in other materials is possible. Last word to Michael Moore: “In December 2006, the BBC “Potters Bar – the Truth” programme interviewed an inspector from the Railway Accident Investigation Board, who said, while holding a Hard-Lock nut in his hand, ‘this nut is the solution to a problem that the railway did not know it had.’ What could Hardlock do for you?”

The overarching advantage of Hard-Lock, though, is its security against extreme vibration and also rotational forces that loosen traditional self-locking nut designs. Hard-Lock’s unique design also performs in applications exposed to extreme levels of temperature. Hard-Lock’s locking capabilities have been extensively tested, notably by Japanese Railways. Their test was carried out on a vibration test machine in accordance with NAS 3350. The tests demonstrated that a conventional ‘nut and jam nut’ assembly loosened in just 11 seconds. Both nylon insert nuts and various designs of all metal self-locking nuts lost clamp load in less than 30 seconds. The test on the Hard-Lock nuts was discontinued after 30 minutes, as there had been no discernable sign of loosening. Similar tests conducted under US national aerospace standards NAS 3350 and 3354 mirrored these results, with a series of alternative locking systems within 180,000 vibration cycles, while the Hard-Lock nut went onto complete the 510,000 vibration cycle test without abnormality. Earlier this year Staytite Limited commissioned UK-based bolted joint analysts Bolt Science to carry out an independent series of

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

See us on stand

5.2 H8 19th-20th September 2007

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TECHNICAL Type of loading is the next step (step B) to consider, as follows:

Estimate of diameter and strength of bolts for a given application

For a static concentric working load, column 1 load remains the same. For static eccentric or concentric dynamic the load is increased one step, to 16000N.

Dr John Newnham, from the Confederation of British Metalforming, outlines the technique required to estimate the diameter and strength of bolts for a given application using the VDI2230 standard and tables. VDI2230 is the German Engineering Society standard for the calculation of bolt size and strength for bolted joints. When it first appeared in the 1970s, it transformed the accuracy with which designers could specify bolts. However, it is a mathematical treatment, and quite daunting to all but the specialist. Various computerised versions are available, but even these require specialist technical knowledge in order to get an accurate estimate of bolt strength and diameter.

For eccentric dynamic as in the example, increase by two steps to give 25000N, shown in green in the table. For transverse loadings, increase by four steps.

In (step C), the accuracy of the tightening method is taken into account next. The step B load is the minimum preload that has to be delivered, and the preload scatter in tightening determines the maximum load that has to be sustained. For yield controlled tightening, or bolt extension control, the step B load is not increased. For torque tightening with a precision wrench, the load is increased by one step, to 40000N, shown in purple in the table. For torque tightening with an air driven wrench or other less accurate method, the load is increased by two steps. So for the example selected, the rough estimate has given a choice of three bolts, a 12.9 grade at M10 diameter, a 10.9 grade at 12mm, or an 8.8 grade at 14mm. You must remember that this is a preliminary estimate only, and VDI2230 uses this selection as the starting point for more complex calculations, but this may give a useful indication of whether there has been a significant undersizing in an application.

Within the VDI2230 document, there is a method of making a preliminary sizing of bolt diameter, and this is used as the first estimate, which is then subjected to the detailed mathematical analysis, and adjusted if necessary. This is embodied in Table 1 of VDI2230. This table has had relatively few modifications in the 30+ years and two re-writings of VDI2230, so it can be assumed that it provides a fairly good first estimate of bolt size and strength for a particular application. It could give a useful rough indication of whether the correct bolt has been specified in an application, in the event of a service failure. In order to make an estimate of size and strength, knowledge is required of the magnitude and type of working load the bolted joint has to withstand, and the installation method. Taking an example of a cylinder end cap bolt, installed with a precision torque wrench, which has to withstand an alternating working load of 8500N, the first step (step A) is to select the load in column 1 of the table that is just higher than the working load. So this is 10000N, in yellow.

Table 1:

LOAD in N 250 400 630 1000 1600 2500 4000 6300 10000 16000 25000 40000 63000 100000 160000 250000 400000 630000

4 Nom. Dia in mm Strength grade

12.9

10.9

8.8

3 3 3 4 4 5 6 8 10 12 16 20 24 30 36

3 3 3 4 5 6 8 10 12 14 18 22 27 33 39

3 3 4 5 6 8 10 12 14 16 20 24 30 36

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MANAGEMENT & SYSTEMS

Hewlett-Packard certifies DocuWare 5.1 Hewlett-Packard has thoroughly tested and certified the integration of its storage management solution, HP StorageWorks File System Extender, in DocuWare 5.1. This integrated solution manages automatic storage, even of large quantities of data, in central storage systems. Hewlett-Packard says that an advantage of the DocuWare document management system is its simple integration, thanks to

standardised interfaces for a wide variety of applications. The HP StorageWorks File System Extender (FSE) Version 3.4, backend solution, supports both disk and tape storage media, as well as the most popular backup and recovery programs. Data can be automatically copied from hard disk to hard disk; even parallel copying is possible. In conjunction with the DocuWare document management system, users get a solution for long-term archiving that is strong enough to administer even large quantities of data in central storage systems.

Essentials for distributors Infor Distribution Essentials is a distribution management solution specifically designed to help distributors of all types run an efficient, end-to-end operation. From accounting and sales to the warehouse and throughout the supply chain fulfillment process, Distribution Essentials, according to Infor, allows companies to enhance customer service, optimise inventory levels, increase productivity and improve profitability.

buttons, Distribution Essentials allows users to accomplish tasks more quickly and more accurately than with other software packages. Robust functionality and innovative features provide new levels of efficiency, accuracy and convenience, allowing distributors to maximise resources throughout their business.” The following are some of the features and benefits offered by Distribution Essentials: • Fast sales order entry.

“Advanced in both design and function, yet easy to use, Distribution Essentials delivers quality and functionality. Your business processes are automated through an intuitive, graphical interface. Revolutionising information management, our solution boasts a full-featured client/server and flexible, event driven operations, running on the latest Windows®-based connectivity standards.” “With customisable search capabilities and quick navigation

• Warehouse and stock management with bar coding. • Financials and management information. • Buyers control centre. • Rebate management. • Innovative e-business. • Integrated customer service. • Event-driven alerting.

Unimer announces OGL as ‘preferred specialist supplier’ Merchant cooperative, Unimer, has awarded OGL Computer Services Group ‘preferred specialist supplier’ status for its stock management and order processing software prof.ITplus, for stockists, distributors and wholesalers. With a number of its members already using the software to streamline their business processes and increase productivity, Unimer has recognised prof.ITplus as what it believe to be the ideal

software solution for small to medium-sized businesses in the merchants industry. Unimer believes that some of the new features of prof.ITplus, including the CRM and eCommerce modules, enable merchants to stay ahead of the competition and take a proactive approach to increasing their profit margins. Howard Grant, managing director of Unimer, says “We are delighted to recommend OGL as our ‘preferred specialist supplier’. Our members who currently use prof.ITplus have been able to run their businesses more efficiently and increase their profits as a result.”

Thomas Graham choses Merlin again Thomas Graham & Sons Limited, a member of the THS Tools group, has recently decided to upgrade its existing Merlin text based software to the Merlin Windows Software, from Chatsworth Computers. Following a full review of the marketplace, including several other industry specific software packages, Thomas Graham decided to stay with Chatsworth and placed its order for the Merlin Windows Software.

Thomas Graham will be using the windows version of Merlin across its four depots for sales & purchase order processing, stock control, accounting ledgers, CRM, proof of delivery, e-commerce and purchase/credit card integration. Roger Smith, managing director of Thomas Graham commented “We had six very successful years with Chatsworth and are excited to be upgrading to their new Merlin Windows Software. We see Chatsworth’s new system taking us to new levels of efficiency, particularly in stock control, reporting capacity and CRM.”

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MANAGEMENT & SYSTEMS

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Help Them Help You: Setting expectations with suppliers by Jason Bader Although written with the US market’s sales and distribution structure in mind Jason’s latest offering challenges distributors everywhere to reflect on how to turn a too often thought-of nuisance into a valuable asset. Don’t you just hate it when a sales rep drops in when you are right in the middle of a project? Or better yet, you are trying to bail out early for a twilight tee time and you just have a few more things to clear off the desk. It always seems to happen. A rep from one of your middle of the road lines just wants to drop in to see how things are going. There doesn’t seem to be any substance to the sales call, just a friendly hello. Depending on how the day is going, we either accept or reject the intrusion. Unfortunately, if the day hasn’t been so rosy, somebody is going to get a double barreled verbal assault right between the ears. Great, now I have to buy something to make peace. A couple of months ago, I wrote an article about creating a vendor report card. Ultimately, creating this type of reporting is all about setting expectations. In order to avoid the situation I described earlier, we need to establish a set of expectations with the representatives charged with maintaining our account. Help them help you. We all know the positive effect that a good sales rep can have in our organization. They keep us up to date on new product offerings, they help us manage our dead inventory, they drive sales through our organization and they can even help us train our sales people to be more effective in the field. A good manufacturer’s rep drives profitability in our company. According to the distributors I have interviewed recently, the good reps seem to be in the minority. And, if they are really good, they tend to get promoted and replaced with an energetic young pup just

waiting to chew up your slippers. With all the new reps and less than stellar performers out there, we need to develop a program for making the rep a contributor in our organization. Wait a minute. Isn’t that the job of the manufacturer? Don’t they sign the paycheck? Yes they do, but who ultimately pays the price for poor representation? We do. Rather than wasting a bunch of time in the blame game, we need to be proactive in our approach with the rep. It is our responsibility to give them a set of ground rules. Show them how to do business with your company. The first place to set expectations is with the sales call. Do you allow drop in calls with no appointment? If so, what is the best time to reach you? Many of the distributors suggest that they have a business lull between the hours of 10AM and 2PM. This would be good information for the sales rep. If you do not appreciate a drop in, how should they set an appointment? Many of you are fine with a phone call. Others would like to have an email detailing the nature of the call and if there is any specific information the rep is looking for. When I sat on the other side of the desk, I was in the email camp. My generation, so notably termed Generation X, tends to prefer the email route. We want to get to the point and leave the idle chit chat aside. Regardless of your preferred method, clearly communicate this to any new manufacturer calling on your company. They will appreciate the heads up and ultimately help you manage your day. Who does what in your organization? Over the years, many of our organizations have grown from one point of vendor contact to several different points of interaction. Responsibility has been delegated to many individuals depending upon the

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

specific task at hand. I found it useful to draw a map for each new sales rep that enters the building. It was a simple 2 page letter titled ‘How to do business with Acme Construction Supply’ (my former company). In the letter, I stated our preferred method of communication, the best hours for meetings and some other expectations regarding literature and showroom displays. The most important part of the letter stated where to go for specific issues. Who handles new product introductions? Pricing updates? Co-op advertising? Accounts payable? By drawing a map for the rep, they were able to go directly to the source of their request without disturbing several people along the way. Our most effective reps embraced the information; the least effective folks disregarded it. Who do you think got to spend more time in front of our sales team? Speaking of sales, the most successful relationship with a manufacturer begins with a solid marketing plan. Many of us avoid this step. If the price is good, and the quality is acceptable, revenue occurs. For many of our lines, we hope this is the case. What happens when we really plan to drive a line? The results can be astounding. At the beginning of the year, sit down with the manufacturer rep and create a plan of action. Plan out the use of marketing funds. Target campaigns around new product launches. Most importantly, define the responsibilities of each party. If you agree to have four product knowledge

www.alfranfasteners.co.uk

MANAGEMENT & SYSTEMS

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meetings with a manufacturer, you must fulfill your obligation. Again, this exercise is all about setting expectations. I agree to do this and you agree to do that. Make sure that you have quarterly meetings to assess the progress. It is easier to make adjustments along the way. The last thing we want is to have a bunch of finger pointing at the end of the year. A part of this marketing campaign generally involves interaction with your sales reps. Many of you have outside sales representation and joint sales calls, with the manufacturer rep, maybe appropriate. Establish some ground rules ahead of time. Do we do full days together or half days? Many distributors suggest that half days are more effective. Can the manufacturer discuss your net cost with a sales rep? This is a really sticky situation. Some of us don’t make net cost available to our sales teams. We load the cost with a percentage for operating expenses and work from a standard cost. Rather than trying to shove the pin back in the grenade, just let the manufacturer know what you expect. Who owns the end user? One of the more difficult situations with a joint sales call comes into play after the contact is made. Should the rep be allowed to call on the same end user with a competing distributor sales person? This becomes especially difficult with independent rep agents. Since they represent several lines of product, they may be calling on the same end user with a different line of product. There is no right answer here; but there are several strong opinions. Prior to setting up

the joint sales calls, let the manufacturer know how you view this dilemma. Generally, a good compromise can be worked out. How do we handle gifts? This is a very common practice in any sales relationship. Manufacturers have logo items they want to distribute. They may have special trips or outings they want to take you on. These are all designed to strengthen the bond between you and the manufacturer. How do you want to handle this practice? Make sure your employees understand your policy as well. I had a purchasing agent that felt entitled to a free lunch any time a rep wanted to make a sales call. This was not the intention of the company; but no one explained this to the purchasing agent. If you really want to throw the rep a curve ball, take them out to lunch. Show your appreciation for a rep who goes above and beyond for your company. After I wrote the vendor report card article, I had a nice call from a gentleman who was very proactive in creating vendor rankings. His company actually named a vendor of the year and took several members of that organization on a trip. He understood that it was important to recognize those suppliers who made his company more profitable. We have a natural tendency to think that our manufacturers should know how to meet our expectations. In fact, we often expect them to be a bit clairvoyant. If you want a rep to work for you, set your expectations down on paper. The results will be better than you expected. Good luck.

Jason Bader is managing partner at The Distribution Team Inc. The Distribution Team specializes in providing excellence in inventory management training, business operations consulting and technology utilization to the distribution industry. Jason has over 20 years experience in the distribution field, including ten years serving in an executive capacity. He spent four years on the board of directors with STAFDA, and in his final year had the honour of being the association's youngest ever president. Jason can be contacted at Jason@Distributionteam.com or go to www.distributionteam.com

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

TOOL ZONE

134

Avdel® launches Genesis® nG handtools ®

Avdel has introduced the Genesis nG handtools range, which are claimed to increase reliability, ergonomics, productivity and service over the models they replace. Avdel®

Genesis®

The new hydro-pneumatic nG1, nG2, nG2s, nG3 and nG4 installation tools are applicable in assembly operations that use breakstem rivets and lockbolts. Avdel® Genesis® nG handtools weigh between 1.5kg and 2.28kg, with pull forces that vary between 6.0kN to 18.68kN.

Redesigned combi drills and drill drivers Bosch Professional Power Tools has completely redesigned its cordless combi drills and drill drivers to meet customer demand for faster, tougher tools. The Bosch Turbo Tough range, named to reflect the products’ speed and robustness, is faster, provides unrivalled torque and is said to be 35% more durable than its competitors. The range has been developed taking account of Bosch research, which indicates over 75% of the market uses nickel based batteries to power their cordless tools.

The 48mm Bosch-built motor used throughout the range is double wound, providing an outstanding overload capacity through better heat dissipation. The newly developed five-planet gearbox is all-metal and incorporates a world first - a fan-assisted air-cooling system.

See us on stand 5. K20 19th-20th September 2007

New features include an additional piston return spring that, Avdel says, reduces installation rates to 1.2 seconds per rivet, and an integrated cycle counter that tracks working strokes and alerts operators to maintenance schedules. Avdel® Genesis® nG handtools feature impact-resistant plastic bodies and heavy-duty rubber bases. Additional steel tie rods securely connect the air cylinder components to the tool head and remove structural loads from the body. Also, according to Avdel, the introduction of bearings into the head assembly reduces component wear and extends tool life.

FAR adds to range More products have recently been added to the wide range of articles within the FAR range.

See us on stand 4. C4 19th-20th September 2007

The Multistage “tamp” rivet in steel, available in diameters 3.2, 4.0 and 4.8, is characterised by a retained nail, high mechanical strength values, as well as good vibration resistance. Zinc plated structural “Farbolt” rivets, are now available in dome head type 6.4x15, 6.4x20, 4.8x11, 4.8x14 and in the countersunk version 6.4x17, 4.8x13 and 4.8x16mm. Other additions include A4 stainless steel rivets and Multifar rivets in A2. The range of FAR tools has also been updated with the K35F, RAC171 for structural rivets and FHU05 for pin and collars. The KJ40 has also been replaced with the KJ45 for M4 to M12.

The tools incorporate a progressive clutch that allows very precise torque settings for every screw diameter, important for driving smaller screws. The NiMH batteries supplied contain cooling sticks, with 12-point battery contacts, further improving connection and overall battery life. The redesign improves the overall working balance of the tool and incorporates a slim handle with soft grip pads at both front and rear. A Dura-shield flexible housing and three-piece stack construction adds to their quality, testified says Bosch by their ability to work normally after being dropped from a 2m height. A single-sleeve autolock chuck with tungsten carbide teeth, to provide long lasting grip, is fitted throughout the range. The Bosch GSB Turbo Tough combi is 20% faster than its main competitor based on drilling tests on site. In addition to getting the job done quicker this results in the health and safety benefit of less direct time on the tool, say Bosch. The GSB combi gearbox ratio has been optimised for hammer drilling and, in second gear, has an impact rate of 0-31,000 rpm. Again, Bosch claims this is a significant advantage with up to 15% more torque than competitor products. No torque adjustment is needed when switching to hammer mode and the same torque setting is available when the hammer mode is switched off. The progressive clutch mechanism is important for the drill driver as its very fine settings can be used to advantage, when working with fine finishes, where the final depth of the screw head is crucial. The Turbo Tough drill driver provides more torque than its combi counterpart, an advantage for those working mainly with larger screws, drilling larger holes or working with wood. Tools are available in 18, 14.4 and 12-volt versions.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

ACTION CAN There’s no BIGGER name in Industrial Aerosols

60+ PREMIUM GRADE SPECIALIST PRODUCTS

Action Line: 01942 713667 www.actioncan.com

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TOOL ZONE

Offline Driver wins award The Kamasa Offline Driver and bit set took the Silver award in the hand tools category of the Industry Awards 2007, sponsored by Koelmesse 2007 along with Hardware & Garden Review, DIY Week and Hardware, held in London earlier this year.

The Offline Ratchet Driver can be used at an angle of up to 15 degrees, allowing it to be used in awkward spaces such as against walls or under shelves. In addition, it can be locked straight for normal use. The set includes 10 bits in Px-Drive, Phillips, Star and flat formats. Since it was originally developed as an innovative bit holder, the OffLine concept has been applied to other tools such as a socket driver range, available as 1/4"D, 3/8"D and 1/2"D, and in screwdriver style with 6 popular bits. The driver also takes all 1/4” shank bits.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

Groen adds to KLEMFIT range Groen Bevestigingsmaterialen BV says it has introduced, under the brandname KLEMFIT, the Worldsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; first open-end ratchet wrench. With the KLEMFIT ratchet wrench, screws, bolts and nuts can be turned loose and tight without moving the tool from its place. The open-end ratchet wrench has a big reach and 30 different seizes of bolts and nuts (Metric and BS) can be (de)mounted (9 - 27mm). Under the brand name KLEMFIT, Groen supplies in-house developed tools for mounting and demounting its clamps. Also, it only supplies to (international) wholesalers in the following branches: hardware, industry, automotive, sanitary, building and road maintenance.

Addax brings a sparkle to cutting blades Another new product launch has been made by T.I. Midwood via their Addax brand, with a range of dry diamond cutting wheels.

See us on stand 5.2 G36 19th-20th September 2007

These are designed to work a variety of media, and include a wide selection of sintered and laser welded blades to suit most machines, including floor saws up to 600mm. The diamond blades have been designed so that they cut the most commonly used materials in construction - reinforced concrete, stone, common brick, lintels, paving slabs and blocks, roofing, ceramic and porcelain tiles, asphalt, abrasive blocks and green concrete. All of the laser welded cutting blades conform to the stringent standards required by the organisation for the Safety of Abrasives (oSa). Dry diamond cores are also stocked in sizes from 22-152mm for medium density building materials. These have 10mm deep segments as standard to give excellent performance and value for money. Cores are also available in 3 piece, 4 piece and 5 piece sets in durable metal cases.

See us on stand

5.2 G7 19th-20th September 2007

CATALOGUE RACK

138

SEPTEMBER 2007 – TOOLS Fastener & Fixing Europe Magazine provides a unique reference guide that offers the industry a fast and easy way to get current as well as new product catalogues. Use this convenient service to call, fax or email the companies to request a copy of their latest Catalogue.

ABRACS Ltd

Crest Industrial Ltd

ABRACS Ltd are the UK's leading distributor of abrasives and allied products. Our product range includes the best selling “Phoenix” brand of abrasive discs, flap discs, sanding discs, wire brushes, diamond blades and much more. If you want top quality abrasives coupled with the best service around then talk to ABRACS, the UK's number 1 for abrasives.

Crest Industrial Ltd is a master importer of screwdriver bits and accessories manufactured to and exceeding the highest industry standards from the best quality tool steels available. We only sell to the distribution trade with user friendly packaging and own branding if requested. For more information catalogues and discount information please contact us Tel: +44 (0) 1904 789 997 Email: abracs@abracs.com

Tel: 0115 965 4100 Fax: 0115 965 4114

Evolution Power Tools CUT STEEL, ALUMINIUM & WOOD WITH ONE SAW & ONE BLADE With over 20 years experience in the industrial power tool market, Evolution have a strong and well earned worldwide reputation among professional power tool users. Evolution have traditionally specialised in steel dry cutting technology and pioneer a range of advanced TCT saws which cut steel. This incredible technology has also been developed into a range of multipurpose tools which cut steel, aluminium and wood with a single blade. Evolution also offer a range of more conventional construction machines such as magnetic drills and compaction plates. As well as offering ground breaking tools, Evolution strive to launch products at the 'right price'. So the user can enjoy all the benefits of an Evolution Power Tool, at the same cost or even cheaper than a comparable product.

Tel: 0870 609 2297 www.evolutionpowertools.com

Hardman Hardman-Work Tough Tools. When looking for performance and strength you can rely on, then look no further than Hardman ‘Work Tough Tools’. This range of handtools continues to go from strength to strength offering the tradesman and the DIY enthusiast a wide range of quality hand tools at a competitive price. At the beginning of the year, Hardman produced an A4 catalogue highlighting their entire range in a convenient, easy to use booklet to support their growing product range.

Harrison & Clough Harrison & Clough’s complete product catalogue. Launched this month, the new product catalogue is the first time H&C has featured fasteners & fixings, hand tools, power tools and accessories in one handy catalogue. Not only does this offer the ultimate reference guide, but with alphabetical listings, an easy to use index and quick links throughout, H&C’s product catalogue is an essential resource. Tel: 0870 889 2222 www.harclo.com

Tel: 0870 889 2222 www.harclo.com

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

Norbar

MG Tools - Taiwan MG Tools is a professional Taiwanese leading manufacturer of bits, rachet screwdivers and accessories for power tools since 1972. Our sturdy products have been selling worldwide and have earned a stellar reputation in screwdriver and bits field. Please visit our website for further information.

This edition of Norbar's acclaimed catalogue includes details of new torque testers along with numerous other enhancements to the range As well as being a detailed listing of Norbar's tools and services, the catalogue is packed with information that will be invaluable to anyone concerned with bolting or assembly quality control. Sales Dept: 0044 (0) 1295 753 600 Service/Calibration Dept: 0044 (0) 1295 753 635

email: merlin.mg@msa.hinet.net www.mgtools.com

Prebena GmbH & Co. KG

Stahlwille Top tools for top technicians

PREBENA Technology – Made in Germany One of the world's leading manufacturers of pneumatic stapler and nailer, cordless nailer, compressors, staples, brads and pins, collated -nails, -screws and cable-clips, for all systems. Experience of more than 45 years is the guarantee for high quality and performance. ISO quality management is our worldwide standard.

Tel:+49 6044 – 9601-0 www.prebena.de

Tel: 0049 202 4791 – 0 www.stahlwille.de

High quality tools for screw fastenings and a wide selection of torque wrenches for manufacturing and maintenance work in aviation and industries. Approved as suppliers to the aviation and aerospace industry. STAHLWILLE products are completely manufactured in Germany from the first to the final production stage. That means "Forged and finished in Germany".

NOVEMBER 2007 - CATALOGUE RACK GERMANY • Available only once a year • Project your Catalogue to the industry • Cost effective platform to market your Catalogue

Your Catalogue entry includes: • Company name in Bold • Front cover • Profile (50 words) • Contact Information: Phone & Web • Only €220/£150 per entry Call Harry now to reserve your entry

+44 (0) 1727 739 150

Email: harry@fastfair.net

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Fastener & Fixing Europe Magazine The leading European fastener magazine that targets the decision makers. 94% of the 22,000 industry speciďŹ c readers are based in Europe.

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06 10

5 Pa

144

PRODUCTS AFS launches Marson® PR-75K ®

Alcoa Fastening Systems Ltd (AFS) has launched the Marson PR-75K plastic riveting kit in the UK, aimed predominantly at the automotive aftermarket. The CE approved PR-75K includes a PR-75 hand tool and 80 Klik-Lok® rivets in four different sizes. Precision moulded from nylon and used to fasten plastic to plastic, metal or fibreglass, the three legs on the blind side of the rivet compress during installation to securely lock the components in place and prevent pull-out. Highlighting the convenience and versatility of the PR-75K, Dean Bradley, AFS sales manager for UK, Ireland and South Africa, said: “Although standard air tooling may be used to carry out installation in high production runs, this portable kit is perfect for low volume use. In addition, the PR-75 hand tool has one of the smallest access area envelopes of its kind, especially useful for difficult-to-reach installations. Currently used to secure interior trim and dashboards, Klik-Lok rivets already hold General Motors and Ford part numbers in the US automotive industry. Their light weight also offers a variety of alternative applications including portable buildings, caravans and the general MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) market.”

New lightweight edge clip fasteners Anixter Components, formerly Heyco, has launched three new edge clip fasteners, the Standard edge clips, ‘S’ type edge clips and Cable edge clips. The clips are used to hold panels, components and flanges together in automotive, telecoms, electronics, construction and panel building applications. The clips can be simply pushed or tapped into place with no drilling or additional screws needed. The ‘S’ type edge clips are designed to hold metal, plastic or wooden panels at 180 degrees to each other and can accommodate panels from 0.2mm up to 2.4mm thick. They are also removable and reusable. Cable edge clips can be used for securing pipes or cables to metal or plastic panels. They require no special installation tools and include rolled edges to prevent fraying or chafing. The cable clip range accommodates panels from 0.5mm up to 4.4mm thick and cable and pipe diameters from 3.2mm to 31.8mm.

“Spring Steel Clips have always been a popular method of securing panels together, because of their simplicity of use,” says Andrew Fletcher, technical director. “This new range enables us to offer our customers a wide variety of fastening solutions. Our spring steel clips are a low-cost solution, accommodating a range of panel sizes and applications.” All clips are available on carbon spring steel with phosphate and delta tone black plating and offer a salt spray protection of 250 hours minimum, as well as being RoHS compliant.

Roebuck aims to save UK industry £000s BuckHickman InOne claims that British manufacturing companies could save thousands of pounds on their indirect material costs by switching to Roebuck products. It comes as the company unveils its first Roebuck catalogue, aimed at the UK market, containing 23,000 tools, maintenance and health and safety products. Available exclusively from BuckHickman InOne, the company claims that Roebuck products are up to 15% cheaper than other leading brands and that independent testing proves they are of equivalent or better quality. Marketing manager, Simon Armer commented “Most main brands that sell into the industrial market also sell their products to the Consumer/DIY market. The costs associated with building a brand image among the general public and meeting the packaging and promotional requirements of retailers are then reflected in the price.” “Roebuck products must meet rigorous standards and be robust and durable enough for the most demanding of applications. Therefore we give all the Roebuck hand tools, spanners and sockets a lifetime warranty.” “Recognising that industrial purchasers and end users are under increasing pressure to cut costs but maintain quality standards, we have decided to make it easier for them to select the appropriate Roebuck product by developing both a catalogue and the brand’s own website.” Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

Eine kleine Auswahl unserer GroĂ&#x;en A small selection of our big ones

KTS Kunststofftechnik GmbH Produktion & Vertrieb Osterkamp 18 D-59368 Werne Fon + 49 (0) 23 89 / 5 18 06 Fax + 49 (0) 23 89 / 86 31 info@kts-duebel.de http://www.kts-duebel.de

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Composite fasteners tested on helicopter rotors AgustaWestland in Yeovil, UK, has successfully tested and flown icotec screws and floating anchornuts on EH101 helicopter rotor blades. The fasteners have been used to attach a replaceable tip on their new technology British Experimental Rotor Programme (BERP) IV main rotor blade. The fasteners were required to be light, have high shear strength and be corrosion free. Extensive structural tests - static and fatigue - have shown that the icotec fastening system

meets all the requirements. Furthermore, the high cycle fatigue tests, with elevated loads, and the flying programme have confirmed the fasteners' excellent torque retention, with no loosening occurring. Icotec manufactures high-performance components made of endless fibre reinforced composites. The patented Composite Flow Moulding (CFM) process enables the Swiss company to mould parts with an endless fibre content of over 60%. Icotec says this results in excellent mechanical strength, fatigue resistance and weight savings of up to 80% compared

with traditionally used materials. Icotec used DIN 65151 test to compare the behaviour of screws made of different materials under vibrating conditions. The steel screw loosened after only a few loadcycles. The aluminium screw remained stable for quite some time before it failed due to fatigue. The titanium screw lost preload by about 60% and slipped under the screw head. The composite screw from icotec retained preload during the whole duration of the testing after an initial setting at about 90%.

Profil UK develops NBR stud A new derivative of its NBR stud has been developed by pierce and rivet fastening specialist, Profil UK, to ensure accurate positioning and high strength threaded fixing of components in sheet metal assemblies.

Building on the proven abilities of the company’s 14mm diameter plain NBR studs, which provide precise location of front subassembly assemblies on BMW MINIs, the latest fasteners are ideal for dynamic, static and shock load applications in materials from 0.6mm to 4.0mm thick. They feature a large flange head for exceptional pull through performance and are equally suitable for plain or coated raw materials in aluminium, steel, stainless, magnesium and high strength steel - enabling high strength, watertight fixings to be achieved with an absolute positional accuracy of + 0.2mm. The new NBR stud variant also incorporates a shouldered design for precise component location and a generous thread lead-in for use with high speed nut running equipment. Like other Profil fasteners, it is designed for automatic insertion in pressed components as part of their production process and has already been specified by a further European vehicle manufacturer to streamline the location and retention of door hinges on a number of its models.

Tite-Fix - the name behind award winning brands such as:

Tongue N design of specialist fasteners.

“The assured accuracy and consistent placement of our products in every component is ideal for robot-based or ‘machine vision’ based automated assembly methods,” says Profil UK’s sales manager, Adrian Ellis. “Furthermore, their load carrying capabilities and corrosion resistance all contribute to the exceptional cost and quality benefits our pierce fastening technology offers over traditional welded or threaded fixing methods.

If you have an application problem

Please come and see us on stand C19 Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2007

LTD

TITE-FIX LTD • PO Box 115 • Castleford • WF10 4WR t: 0870 043 4571 • f: 0870 043 4572 • e: sales@tite-fix.co.uk • www.tite-fix.co.uk

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

See us on stand 5.2 H20 19th-20th September 2007

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PRODUCTS Plus points in fastening for commercial vehicles When the engineering team of a major motor manufacturer were considering the most effective method of fastening, for an application within their new commercial vehicle derivative, they chose to use RIVNUT® PN from Bollhoff Fastenings Ltd. The need was to provide a strong anchorage for the load lashing points and fixing a strengthening rail to the cargo floor. The slotted shank Plus-Nut® is installed simply and quickly, to achieve 600N pull-out resistance and a torque value in excess of 40Nm. Designated RIVNUT® PN or Plus-Nut®, these fasteners have been designed for use in thin sheet metal and plastics, where a strong female thread is set securely from one side of the work piece. On clenching, the slotted shank splays out into four ‘petals’ to the rear of the base material, providing a wide grip range and offering a large bearing surface to ensure maximum pull-out resistance. The wide spread of the upset shank section distributes the load and allows for setting in variable thickness materials or multiple layers. Hole tolerance is less demanding and reinforcing washers is not required. Minimal radial stresses are generated during installation, avoiding any risk of damage to soft or brittle materials. Thread sizes range from M4 to M10, in steel, with aluminium or stainless steel available on request. To enable Plus-Nut® to be installed under torque with a pneumatic setting tool, there is a ‘pre-bulbed’ range, where the shank has been subject to a gentle pre-splaying.

NORD-LOCK washers now RoHS and ELV compliant See us on stand

NORD-LOCK, supplier of wedge 4. E10 19th-20th September 2007 lock washers, has announced that its steel products will now come with the zinc flake coating Delta Protekt®, bringing them in line with the latest RoHS (Restriction of the use of certain Hazardous Substances) and ELV (End of Life Vehicles) requirements.

Pioneering solvent free polyurethane adhesive Polyped2, an innovative product created by Chemique Adhesives and Sealants Ltd, is used for the installation and manufacturing of raised access flooring. The adhesive was specifically formulated for the bonding of metal pedestals to concrete, when installing raised flooring systems. Carefully designed to ease the mixing, both parts are provided within a 7 litre bucket. Part B rests neatly inside the cuvette which, when removed, provides the extra space for adding and mixing the formula together. Due to this new single package storage, transport requirements have been considerably reduced. For easy identification the two parts are coloured in blue and yellow, which, when mixed, form a uniform green colouring to identify that it is ready for use. “Recognising that our customers’ success is based on our ability to respond to their ever changing flooring requirements,” said John Bellerby, Chemique technical manager “we hoped, when creating Polyped2, to design a strong, extremely flexible bond and exceptional adhesive solution to metal substrates and concrete sub-floors even on the most inconsistent floor.”

Smart aluminium hinges New anodised aluminium hinges from Elesa (UK) Ltd should interest equipment manufacturers where an especially smart appearance is required. The CMM-AL and CMD-AL hinges are suited to installations of cabinets, panel doors, inspection panels and wall boxes that will be on long-term display. The CMM-AL is a 180º log-on hinge of 50mm length, featuring countersunk screw mounting. The finish is in natural anodised aluminium with stainless steel hinge pin. Its counterpart, the CMD-AL, also operates over 180º, but also features in fully concealed fixings and is especially suited to assembly on thin doors. The CMD-AL is 65mm overall length and has polyamide-based technopolymer guide bushes for smooth operation.

The washers are now supplied in the Delta Protekt® matt-grey finish, which, NORD-LOCK claims, gives improved corrosion resistance. NORD-LOCK is currently changing to a higher grade of steel to provide customers with the advantage of an even harder and optimised product. M3 to M130 washers are available in steel, M3 to M80 in stainless steel. NORD-LOCK also supply washers in other steel alloys for demanding applications such as high temperature (Inconel® 718), sea water (254SMO) and acid environments (INCONEL®/HASTELLOY® C-276). Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

EUROPEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LARGEST EX STOCK RANGE OF

Twin Hole Spanner Pin Hexagon Resistorx One-Way and Pin Phillips Machine and sheet metal security screws The latest 24 page catalog from European fastener specialist DOUWES INTERNATIONAL BV features in excess of 900 security screw and nut products in diameters M3-M12. Most items comprising the range are available in stainless steel, ex-stock and can be delivered to any European destination within 48 hours.

Manufacturers of Masonry Nails, Cartridge Tool Nails, Washered Nails and Capping Nails See us on stand 4. A7 19th-20th September 2007

For a free catalogue and/or enquiries for quotation, contact DOUWES INTERNATIONAL BV: Tel: +31 153 615 210 Fax: +31 153 615 299 Email: mblaauw@douwes.nl www.secufast.com The range is also available from appointed stockists throughout Europe

INTERNATIONAL BV Telephone 0031 15 3615210, TELEFAX 0031 15 3615299 PO BOX 61 2640 AB Pijnacker, Holland

J.H. de Wit en Zonen B.V., P.O. Box 60, Gerstdijk 17, Industrial Zone No. 9081, 5700 AB Helmond,The Netherlands. Tel: +(31) 492 - 588888 Fax: +(31) 492 - 547585 E-mail: info@don-quichotte.nl www.don-quichotte.nl

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PRODUCTS Latest Huntsman materials at aerospace show Huntsman showcased its latest developments in materials and technologies for the global aerospace industry at MAKS, 21-26 August 2007, including two recent innovations - V Araldite® 1641 A/B and Epocast® 1633-A41/B. Araldite® 1641 A/B is a unique epoxy based aerofoil syntactic paste, which won the 2006 JEC Composites Innovation Award for the aeronautics category. It is a very low density two-component syntactic paste, which exhibits noise and vibration damping characteristics. It can be used as a replacement for traditional metal reinforcements in aerospace engine components such as outer guide vanes. Epocast® 1633-A41/B is a new low density, flame retardant, epoxy syntactic paste that is bromine-free, as required by EU Directive 76/769/EEC relating to the restrictions on the marketing and use of certain dangerous substances and preparations. It can be used for high strength reinforcement of a range of honeycomb core parts. This lightweight syntactic is the result of several years research aimed at eliminating the chemical compounds octabromodiphenyl ether (OBDE) and pentabromodiphenyl ether (PBDE), that have previously been used to manufacture flame-retardant compounds. The Epocast® 1633-A41/B also exhibits a compressive strength of 45 MPa and is qualified to Airbus AIMS 08-08-001-04 and Boeing BMS 5-28, Type 18, Class 2 specifications.

VW specifies Magni 594 The Volkswagen Group has just approved newly developed Magni 594 for threaded bolts and nuts in severe corrosion, under vehicle/under hood applications, per the VW TL 245 specification. This new Magni 594 coating is totally chrome free and consists of only two layers, combining Magni’s widely used zinc rich basecoat, with a new inorganic aluminium pigmented topcoat, with internal lubrication engineered to comply with Volkswagen friction requirements. Additional extreme performance requirements of the Magni 594 coating include the uniform thin film of only 12 microns, consistent thread gauge-ability, chemical resistance, high heat resistance and frictional properties that prevent stick/slip during bolt/nut installations on high speed assembly lines. Magni 594 is the latest coating from the laboratories of Magni Europe. In addition to nuts and bolts, Magni coatings are typically engineered for door hardware, steel fuel tanks, brake rotors, and fuel filler pipes.

Machine Screws Security Screws Socket Screws HT Bolts & Sets Threaded Inserts Special Fasteners Materials St/St Brass Mild Steel

Finishes Zinc, Galvanised Black

Where Quality & Service Come As Standard

Threaded Types BSW, BSF, UNC, UNF, BA, METRIC

Woodscrews Packaging Materials Rivets and Rivet Nuts Self Drilling Screws P.P.E. & Safety Wear Kanban & J.I.T. Systems

PH 01902 790 780 FX 01902 790 810 Extensive Product Range Single Source Supplier

www.global-fasteners.co.uk

World Leaders for the Manufacturing of Standard Metric Retaining Rings

UNI EN ISO 9001:2000 AND ISO TS 16949:2002 CERTIFIED

BENERI S.P.A. VIALE XXV APRILE, 56 - 23868 VALMADRERA (LC) ITALY PHONE:- +39 0341 581101 FAX:- +39 0341 583471 EMAL:- info@beneri.com WEBSITE:- www.beneri.com

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New offshore testing valve uses RotaBolt RotaBolt® tension control fasteners have been chosen for new Open Water Lubricator Valves (OWLV), being used on offshore drilling rigs as a safety testing device in open water riser systems. The OWLV typically sits 50-200 metres below the rig floor and allows the introduction and external pressure testing of the down-hole tooling string, ensuring that all the elements function correctly and can withstand wellbore pressure prior to installation. “This is the first time we have used RotaBolt technology,” commented design engineer Chris Cusack from Expro. “We have been very pleased with it and found that the installation and tooling times were

considerably reduced. The tension control assurance delivered by RotaBolt gave us an added comfort factor - we knew we could be confident about the pre-load on the joints.” The RotaBolt 2 system was selected because it offers two tension settings in a single sensor and features a dual load indicator cap – the outer cap for high tension setting and inner cap for low tension – giving the choice of an operational tension range for overload or maintenance control. Each OWLV is approximately 132” (3353mm) long, has an external diameter of 24.20” (950mm) and a through bore of up to 7.375” (187mm). Ten RotaBolt 2 fasteners are fitted to the flanges at each end of the OWLV.

A hot dip from Stafa Hot dip galvanizing delivers corrosion protection in a variety of exposure conditions. Whether used in atmospheric, concrete, soil, fresh or salt water applications, hot dip galvanizing allows for maximum service-life to first maintenance. Hot dip galvanized coatings have a proven performance under numerous environmental conditions. Zinc coatings’ corrosion resistance is linearly related to the

Fastener Fair Stuttgart 19.09. – 20.09.2007 Halle 4 C15/D12

thickness of the coating, which is a function of the chemistry and thickness of the fastener material. The thicker the coating, the longer the barrier and cathodic protection delivered. Galvanized coatings are much thicker than zinc-plated coatings and painted coatings offer only barrier protection.

See us on stand 5. J26/K25 19th-20th September 2007

So simply to guarantee a longer duration of life and also an optimal fitting, Stafa Holland has chosen for hot dip galvanized iso fitting fasteners. Another big advantage of iso fitting fasteners is the guarantee that bolts and nuts can be exchanged between one another.

Special Screws · Direct from Stock Passschrauben

Fit bolts According to DIN 7379 as well as screws with dog/cone point, square head bolts, knurled thumb screws, plugs, flat headed screws and specials

S P E Z I A L S C H R A U B E N www.pasvahl.de info@pasvahl.de

Oehleckerring 23 · D-22419 Hamburg · Tel. +49 [0] 40 - 53 28 52-0 · Fax +49 [0] 40 - 53 28 52-52

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PRODUCTS

The tape that thinks its glue

Mammoth Powerful Grip tape is the latest product to be launched by Everbuild as part of the Mammoth range of tapes. This latest tape is set to break all the rules when it comes to tapes – it is literally the tape that thinks it’s a glue! Mammoth Powerful Grip is a double sided tape with supposedly immediate bond strength. The strength has been tested by two members of Wakefield Trinity Wildcats Rugby Team. Ryan Atkins and Brett Ferres (also England Internationals) attempted to pull apart a 20lb steel plate secured by Powerful Grip Tape – and failed! Powerful Grip Tape is available in 2.5 meter long rolls in 12mm, 25mm and 50mm widths. A printed starter pack is available which contains the 25mm and 50mm sizes of tape, along with leaflets and holder. Boxes of individual sizes are also available. Powerful Grip demo squares are also available on request for you to check the strength of the tape for yourself. Everbuild has also released a new product catalogue which contains brand new products, as well as recent, and new, Everbuild adverts and product interest features.

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Thread inserts in plastics – update Following last year’s announcement by Cross Manufacturing that Cross Spiralock thread inserts unexpectedly demonstrate a locking performance in plastic that is equal to that in metal, chairman Rodney Cross observed: “We don’t really know why it works, but the fact that it does work is worth knowing.” Since then the company has spent time and energy trying to find out why. Summarising the outcome of extensive additional testing, Spiralock insert test engineer Chris Whittock says: “The secret appears to be in the 30˚ angle of the ramp on the Spiralock thread insert. The tensile force caused by the tightening of the bolt is carried as a radial load in the thread insert. It only works when the Spiralock profile is on the wire

thread insert. Using the Spiralock profile on the plastic itself is ineffective.” In layman’s terms this means that the profile of the Spiralock insert thread locks the bolt and distributes the load on the entire wedge spiral, rather than concentrating the stress on the first few engaged threads as a conventional thread form does. Tightening the bolt creates a radial load which, in turn, compresses the insert between the bolt and the plastic material, pushing the insert into the surrounding area and further increasing the resistance to movement. Summing up, Mr. Whittock explains “The important thing is that the insert really does work in plastics and this should open up a whole new area of locking and vibration resisting applications for a product which had traditionally only been used with metals.”

Disc-Lock washers now available glued Disc-Lock Europe has awarded Universal Adhesive Systems Limited of Daventry, England, the contract to design, implement and install an automated system of applying hot-melt glue to the entire Disc-Lock Washer range, thereby enabling each pair of washers to be glued together for easier assembly. The new automated system is to be installed in Disc-Lock Europe’s Kent warehouse. Last year Disc-Lock introduced a new, patented, scrap-free manufacturing process by which to produce its washers; a process which led to a substantial reduction in manufacturing costs. With the introduction of this new, automated gluing system, not only will the end user find the Disc-Lock Washer easier to install but they will also find that the washers are very competitively priced.

Disc-Lock Europe’s managing director, Bob Hope, commented “Over the last 12 months DiscLock has lost some of its market share in the vibration-proof washer business as our washers have not been glued. This new automated system will significantly and very quickly re-establish our market share on a world-wide basis, as we are poised to undertake an aggressive marketing and pricing policy to achieve this. Once we have completed gluing the large stocks of Disc-Lock Washers, which are kept in our Kent warehouse for distribution in Europe, the new machine will be shipped immediately to our manufacturing plant in Taiwan where it is to be integrated into the production line, enabling all DiscLock Washers to be glued in pairs at manufacturing source.”

New compression swinghandles EMKA claims that compression latching of control cabinets has become even easier with the introduction of its 1152 compression swinghandle to IP65. The small size and single cutout installation of the 1152 means it can be used for cabinets where immediate manual operation is called for, without the projection of a standard L or T handle. The 1152 is available with or without a key lock cylinder and presents a smooth low profile of just 9mm. Clamping operation is provided by the action of depressing the swinghandle into the escutcheon to provide 3mm of axial movement, firmly clamping the gasket for optimum sealing and released by lifting the handle which then allows 90º rotation of the handle and tab so the door may open.

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

See us on stand

5.2 G8 19th-20th September 2007

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PRODUCTS Rapid curing adhesive features non-yellowing properties Master Bond EP30-4 is a transparent, low viscosity, fast curing adhesive sealant and coating, especially recommended for applications requiring rapid cure without adding external heat. When EP30-4 is spread in films, as thin as 0.025 inches it will become tack free in as little as 30 minutes. Another property of the EP30-4 is the optical clarity of the system. Offering spectral transmission in thin sections and non-yellowing properties, it is suited for use in fibre optic bonding applications. The two component EP30-4 epoxy produces high strength, rigid bonds with tensile strength greater than 10,500 psi and bond shear strength exceeding 2,000 psi. Efficient to process, it has a working life of 8-10 minutes and can be applied by spraying or flow coating. EP30-4 bonds are resistant to chemicals, including water, oil and most organic solvents, over the wide temperature range of -50ºC to more than 120ºC. Master Bond EP30-4’s electrical insulation properties include a volume resistivity greater than 1,016ohm-cm, a dielectric constant and dissipation factor respectively of 4.3 and 0.022 at 100 hertz. Master Bond Polymer Adhesive EP30-4 is used in electronic, fibre optic, optical, OEM, medical and various industrial applications where thin sections of epoxy must cure rapidly without adding heat.

Addax unveils pro bits range A range of professional screwdriver bits and accessories has been launched by T.I. Midwood under its ‘Addax’ brand name. The range consists of 25mm insert bits, power bits up to 150mm in length, with a selection of magnetic and quick release bit holders to suit most applications. All bits are made from tough and durable S2 tool steel for long life and many are See us on available with either TiN or Ti-CN hard stand coatings, which increase surface 5.2 G36 hardness and wear resistance, without 19th-20th September 2007 making the bit brittle. Two sets are also available. The smaller 10-piece set features a selection of bits to fit the popular Pozidriv and Phillips head fasteners, as well as a magnetic holder with securing ring. The larger 32 piece set also covers some six-spline, hexagonal and slotted sizes, as well as a No.2 square bit for decking screws, and comes with a quick release holder. Both are available in attractive display cartons.

See us on stand 5.2 G16 19th-20th September 2007

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Rotor Clip introduces wave springs Rotor Clip Company, Inc. has taken its expertise in processing and coiling wire, to produce retaining rings, and applied it to the manufacture of singleturn and multi-turn wave springs. A wave spring is coiled flat wire with waves added, to give it a spring effect. Wave springs are superior to coil springs in certain applications because they provide lower work heights with the same force.

This not only provides space savings, but also smaller assemblies that use less materials, hence lower production costs. Wave springs can act as load bearing devices compensating for accumulated tolerances in assemblies and providing end-play take-up. Wave springs exert a force, or ‘preload’, on assemblies made to the low side of the tolerances ‘snugging’ everything up. On the other end, they also ‘give’ when parts are made to the high side of tolerances.

V7 stainless steel draw latch from Southco® According to Southco® its new V7 stainless steel draw latch is designed to deliver smooth, quiet and durable performance in marine environments and other exterior applications. Sleek design, combined with corrosionresistant 316 stainless steel construction, makes it, says Southco, an attractive option for exterior storage compartments.

An optional integrated lock plug offers key locking security, while a high-strength handle gives tamper-resistant protection. “While this latch's design and construction are robust enough to meet the demands of industrial use, its smoothly contoured lowprofile styling eliminates sharp edges. Additionally, its cupped handle and catch enclose the latch's mounting hardware keeper and working mechanism for enhanced protection against vandalism or forced entry.”

The lever-action mechanism provides secure latching with quick access and an over-centre latching mechanism ensures engagement and prevents accidental opening due to stress or vibration. The integrated lock plug design maintains the smooth exterior look of the latch and precision molding technology permits the creation of precise lock plug designs, molded from corrosion-resistant stainless steel.

Northern Precision fastener catalogue puts RoHS compliancy to the force By clearly signposting, in its latest product catalogues how its vast range of over 5,000 in-house stock lines of sheet metal fasteners are RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliant, Northern Precision’s believes it is setting a new benchmark in the way fasteners, as well as specialpurpose turned and cold formed parts are described and can be selected. The new full colour, 40-page fastener tome contains detailed technical drawings, specifications and photographs, illustrating the comprehensive ranges available.

In addition, the new catalogue contains technical diagrams, photographs and application guides for each product series, in addition to part number guidelines for easy ordering. Steve Smith, sales director, commented “As a producer and supplier of fasteners for use throughout the sheet metal fabrication and electronics industries Northern Precision is committed to

Issue 47 – September 2007 – Fastener & Fixing Europe – www.fastenerfair.com

See us on stand

4. C31 19th-20th September 2007

See us on stand

5.2 H6 19th-20th September 2007

DIRECTOR OF SALES (SALES DIRECTOR DESIGNATE) We are a successful company operating in the field of industrial fasteners. As the result of re-structuring we are looking for a Director of Sales to be based at our High Wycombe plant. The Company operates from a dedicated distribution site and serves a growing client base across Europe. In the UK, demand for its products continues to grow. The Company is looking to appoint an exceptional business developer - an accomplished ‘door opener' with experience in marketing, capable of identifying and developing new accounts, whilst effectively managing existing business. Sales staff, both internal and external will report to the ideal candidate. Good interpersonal skills would be essential. As the candidate you will be computer literate, enthusiastic and thrive in a sales environment, challenged by the opportunity to grow business in competitive and dynamic markets. Ideally you will have experience of working within the fastener industry, coupled with a thorough appreciation of technical requirements. This will require close interaction with customers to ensure accurate interpretation of their needs. You will be confident when dealing with people at all levels and used to managing a varied client base that is likely to include blue chip organisations and major multiples. This is a key appointment for the organisation and an excellent opportunity for an experienced, dynamic sales professional looking to further their career with a developing company in its field. The importance of this role is reflected in the excellent salary and benefits package on offer. If you feel you meet the above criteria and would like to apply, in confidence, for this role then please send your CV and current salary details to: The Operations Manager, Staytite Ltd., Staytite House, Coronation Rd, High Wycombe, Bucks HP12 3RP

SALES MANAGER We are an established fastener manufacturer & distributor, sites in the UK and China. The position involves continuing the growth of the sales function, developing existing and potential customers, identifying alternative product ranges and markets. We are looking for someone who has energy, self motivation, initiative and a desire to be successful. Package tailored to individual.

SALES JUNIOR To assist the Sales manager, with the emphasis on ‘caring for the customer’. Experience not essential, just a great attitude needed.

SALES AGENTS To cover European markets, all countries considered.

Apply to:Europa Fastenings Unit 5D/8 Leaton ind. Est., Bomere Heath,Shrewsbury,SY4 3AP Tel: 01939 291199 stephen@europafastenings.co.uk

Achilles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 ACT Fasteners & Components . . . . . . . . . . . .129 Action Can . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 Adolf Pühl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Adolf Schnorr GmbH & Co. KG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Advance Spares (& Rivits) . . .45 Ahorn Befestigungs Technik . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140 Aksa Industry Machine Inc. Trade CO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .157 Albert Pasvahl GmbH & Co .152 Alexander Paal GmbH . . . . . .59 Alfran Fasteners Ltd . . . . . . .131 Allbolts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123 Alloy & Stainless . . . . . . . . . . .57 Apex Stainless . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Arndale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127 Arpel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 Atlantic Man Srl . . . . . . . . . .127 Atotech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Autontic Engineering . . . . . .117 Avon Stainless . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Baker & Finnemore . . . . . . . .45 Bäcker GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Bendfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117 Beneri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151 Bierbach GmbH & Co. KG . . .133 Bi-Mirth Corp . . . . . . . . . . . .161 Blakeacre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Bollhoff Direct . . . . . . . . . . . . .63 Bollohoff Fasteners . . . . . . . .47 Bossong . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 Bralo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 Brighton Best . . . . . . .8,10,12,14 Bülte Plastiques SA . . . . . . . .54 Can-Eng . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107 Carlo Salvi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111 Chatsworth computers . . . . .129 China Fastener . . . . . . . . . . . .35 China International Industrial Fasteners Exhibition & Purchasing Center . . . . . . . . .39 Crest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .131 CTR Carbide Dies Ltd . . . . . .113 Dacral . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 Dacral . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Deltaleigh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103 DIY & Totally Tools . . . . . . . .136 Dörken MKS-Systeme GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119 Don Quichotte . . . . . . . . . . . .149 Douwes Int BV . . . . . . . . . . . .149 Dresselhaus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 DS Fasteners Ltd . . . . . . . . . .77 Dubai Wire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 Earnest Express . . . . . . . . . . .23 Electra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Emhart Technologies . . . . . .145 ETA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Europa Fastenings . . . . . . . .162 Everbuild . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .150 Fastbolt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Fermec Srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141 Forward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6,7 Fwu Kuang Enterprises Co. Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .158 Gesi GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143 Global Fasteners . . . . . . . . . .150 Hafren . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Harrison & Clough . . . . . . .15,59 Heinz Soyer Bolzenschweisstechnik GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Hugo Benzing . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 JCS Hi-Torque . . . . . . . . . . . .145 Jagular Industry Ltd. . . . . . .153 FK Moore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 Heco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 Industrial Equipment Westendorff GmbH . . . . . . . .109

Infast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137 Jin Hui . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .131 KISmart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36,37 KTS Kunststofftechnik GmbH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145 Lederer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Lindapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 London Screw Company Ltd 143 M-Craft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 M&W Fastener Co.,Ltd . . . . . .31 Machine Screws Ltd . . . . . . . .23 Martyn Price ( Bolts & Nuts ) Ltd . . . . . . . . .85 Mason Fasteners Ltd . . . . . . .77 Max Mothes GmbH . . . . . . . . .69 Mayes & Warwick . . . . . . . . .109 Maynards Industries . . . . . . . .27 M G H d.o.o. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .161 Mectron Engineering Co., Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105 Microplstics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 Mofast Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143 Mollificio Pavano S.p.A. . . . . .71 Morgalv Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63 Nakashimada Engineering Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121 National Machinery . . . . . . . .164 NIFS/W . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 Ningbo Ordam int'l trading company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 Nordic Metalblok Srl . . . . . . .29 Nord lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Norma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Norm Civata . . . . . . . . . . . . . .157 Olympic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 Pecol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93 Pinstructure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Premier Fastening Systems .29 Prelok . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 PTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 Push-Up Thread Dies PVT . . .47 Rawl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95 Ray Fu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154 Rex Fasteners . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 Reyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Rivco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Rivit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .163 Rotorclip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 S D Products Ltd . . . . . . . . . . .63 Sacma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115 Sanhuan Fasteners Corp. Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133 Sariv srl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147 Schröder Schrauben . . . . . . . .59 Shanghai Fanto Hardwares CO., Ltd . . . . . . . .125 Specialinsert Srl . . . . . . . . . .127 Spirol . . . . . . . . . . . .77, 149, 158 Star Fasteners . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Staytite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123 Staytite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .162 Steven Walker & Sons Ltd . . .67 STF Export . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Sunhuan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133 Sun-Maku Co., Ltd. . . . . . . .117 Tecfi S.p.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Techfast Mfg Sdn Bhd . . . . . . .65 Tecno Impianti . . . . . . . . . . . .113 Tite-fix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .146 Titibi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 Tooling International Ltd . . .109 trevafield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .159 Trojan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 Trutek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87 Ubk Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Viraj Fasteners . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Vogelsang GmbH & Co. KG . . . . . . . . . . . .15,71,129 West Special Fasteners . . . . .71 WTI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 Yi Tai Shen Co., Ltd. . . . . . . .155 Zero Clips Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . .123