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Fastener + Fixing Magazine - Issue 66 November 2010

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CONTENTS Fastener + Fixing Magazine Part of the Mack Brooks Group 18 Alban Park, Hatfield Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 OJJ, UK

42-44

Tel: +44 (0) 1727 739 150 Fax: +44 (0) 1727 831 033 www.fastenerandfixing.com Publishing Director Jamie Mitchell jamie.mitchell@fastenerandfixing.com Editor Phil Matten phil.matten@fastenerandfixing.com Deputy Editor Will Lowry will.lowry@fastenerandfixing.com

NIFS/West report

Senior Advertising Executive Harry Whyte harry.whyte@fastenerandfixing.com Advertising Executive Claire Lake claire.lake@fastenerandfixing.com Production Manager Andy Clow andy.clow@fastenerandfixing.com Fastener + Fixing Magazine is a dedicated, trade-only publication which is circulated freely throughout the European trade.

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

32-33 Capitalising on inner strength

56-58 First and always a fastener company

62-76 88-104

Copyright Entire contents copyright © Fastener Fairs Limited 2010. 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 £80/€120/$160

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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EC launches Malaysian circumvention investigation On 28th October the European Commission published EU Regulation 966/2010 initiating a formal investigation concerning possible circumvention via Malaysia of anti-dumping measures imposed last January on carbon steel fasteners from the People’s Republic of China.

he announcement of the investigation has been expected since 21st September when this magazine first reported that the European Commission was seeking approval from EU member states to start an investigation under its own initiative rather than as a result of an external complaint. The Commission says it now has prima facie evidence of circumvention in relation to the tariffs on carbon steel fasteners from China applied by Council Regulation 91/2009 in January 2009. The evidence includes a significant change in the pattern of trade involving exports from China and Malaysia to the EU following the imposition of the anti-dumping measures. By the end of 2009 EU imports from Malaysia had increased 2.5 fold, compared with 2008, to a total of nearly 33,000 tonnes. The upward trend continued into 2010 with Q1 imports hitting over 21,000 tonnes. Imports from China plummeted from over 700,000 tonnes in 2008 to around 105,000 tonnes in 2009. The Commission has also identified, using Chinese export data and Malaysian import data, that exports from China to Malaysia increased four-fold from 2008, totalling over 61,000 tonnes in 2009. Q1 2010 volumes were more than 23,000 tonnes. It emphasises that these significant changes in the pattern of trade took place “following the imposition of measures on the product concerned, without sufficient due cause or justification other than the imposition of the duty for such a change.” The Commission says it has evidence that the “remedial effects” of the existing anti-dumping measures are being undermined both in terms of quantity and price. It is also known to have collated substantial evidence of explicit offers from Chinese exporters to arrange transhipment via Malaysia in order to circumvent the tariffs. The Commission has nine months from the announcement on 28th October to conduct its investigation during which EU Customs Authorities are required to ‘register’ imports of the products “in order to ensure that, should the investigation result in findings of circumvention, anti-dumping duties of an appropriate amount can be levied retroactively from the date of registration.” The regulation does not state the earliest point at which the Commission might announce decisions but it does set up timescales for interested parties to make representations to the investigation. Questionnaires are being sent to known exporters/producers in Malaysia, to their known associates in China, to known exporters in China, and to known importers in the European Union. Questionnaire replies must be received by the Commission within 37 days from the publication date of the investigation. Producers in Malaysia also have 37 days in which to request exemption from registration of imports or measures - the request must be supported by detailed evidence. This application will be crucial if legitimate exporters in Malaysia are to demonstrate that they should not be subject to tariffs. The regulation makes clear that non-cooperation with the investigation will lead to it making decisions based on the facts it has available. It also notes that false or misleading information will be disregarded and that “results may be less favourable to that party than had it cooperated”. The full text of the Regulation may be downloaded from the EU Official Journal, Reference L282 dated 28th October 2010 - go to www.eur-lex.europa.eu/ and select language.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

news

Circumvention: Reaction and concerns Fastener companies across Europe as well as in Malaysia are still evaluating the impact of the investigation. While there is approval amongst many importers that the Commission is taking action “at long last” there are a significant number of key questions and concerns on many people’s lips.

ppermost is the need for clarification on the criteria and timescale for confirmation of exemptions for legitimate Malaysian exporters. Most importers to whom this magazine spoke see no choice but to suspend trading with Malaysian suppliers, even though their relationships go back way before the application of tariffs on China, until there is official confirmation that imports from these companies will not be subject to retrospective tariffs. Others also expressed concern over whether tariffs could be backdated prior to 28th October or whether national customs authorities may be able to take action to recover tariffs prior to this date based on information unearthed by the investigation. Some of this nervousness could and probably should in some cases be attributed to knowing involvement in transhipment practices. It is also clear, though, that many companies had scrupulously audited suppliers in Malaysia to satisfy themselves of genuine manufacturing capability before importing from them but are now concerned that these factories may become subject to tariffs. In some cases the measures taken by importers had included obtaining origin interpretations from national customs authorities. “We have taken all reasonable precautions to ensure that we

are not breaking the law in relation to antidumping,” said one fastener manufacturer importing complimentary products to its own production, but echoing similar statements from distributor importers. “Now we have no idea whether we are at jeopardy of having to pay substantial back duties, which could be extremely damaging to our business. You cannot run a business with this level of uncertainty.” The announcement has also re-energised the vociferous condemnation of the basis on which the “normal value” was calculated during the AD525 investigation. Concerns are high that any duties applied to Malaysia will be based on the up to 85% levels imposed by Regulation 91/2009. Distributor importers continue to be incensed that “the calculation was based on a single Indian company, working in a specific field, and known to have links to one of the main complainants,” and fear that circumvention investigations could be a “back door” mechanism to apply high tariffs to other countries that are, unlike China, recognised as market economies by the European Union. More reactions and information in the January issue of Fastener + Fixing Magazine and, in the meantime, at www.fastenerandfixing.com

eU guidance for exporters faced with trade defence instruments The European Commission, Directorate General for Trade, has published a 30-page guide to assist EU exporters that may be faced with trade defence instruments - anti-dumping, anti subsidy or other safeguards - imposed by other countries around the world.

n the foreword, Spanish secretary of state for trade, Alfredo Bonet Baiget, says: “There has been a remarkable increase in the use of Trade Defence Instruments by third countries since the beginning of the economic crisis, both in terms of initiation of new investigations as well as in the number of measures adopted”. He notes: “Although the use of these instruments is legitimate, they have to be applied in line with WTO provisions” adding that “WTO standards have been frequently overlooked and in an increasing number of cases poor standards at initiation and during the investigation have been observed.” The Guide, says EU commissioner for trade, Karel de Gucht, “provides a useful tool to help you find your way in the trade defence world”. The Guide may be downloaded in any of the EU official languages from www.ec.europa.eu/trade/

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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Asia drives TR recovery Trifast plc reported a half-year pre-tax profit of £1.48 million. Asian operations doubled operating profits and the UK business returned to profitability.

or the half year to 30th September 2010 Trifast reported revenue at £52.04 million (approximately 62.5 million euros) compared with £39.85 million for the same period 200910. The group reported an underlying pre-tax profit at £1.72 million (£1.48 million after separately disclosed items). Trifast recorded a loss of £2.81 million for the full 2009-10 year. Asia performed strongly increasing sales by 54% and doubling operating profits to £2.09 million. Utilisation in TR’s Asian manufacturing operations rose from 20% in 2009 to around 80% this year. Trifast has agreed a significant investment programme to support growth in the region. The Group is relocating its Chinese operation from a free-trade zone into a purpose built facility that can service local and international business. TR’s UK business improved sales by 26% over the comparable period and turned an operating loss for previous half year to an operating profit of £0.89 million. Elsewhere in Europe, TR says Holland will become an “Automotive Centre of Excellence” whilst Hungary will concentrate on Eastern Europe sales. On a half-on-half basis Group sales continued to increase by 13% - Asia by 20%, UK by 14%. The Rest of the World remained at last year’s levels. TR identifies its priorities as: • Further penetration of globally spread multi-national high volume assemblers in electronics and automotive. • Increasing leverage of its low cost Asian manufacturing capabilities. • Growth of TR branded and transactional sales mainly in the UK and EU. Executive chairman, Malcolm Diamond, commented: “As the Group continues to advance, and despite some caution across certain global economies we are encouraged by year to date trading and the amount of ‘self help’ that is within reach. Given the market dynamics visible to us at this stage, the Board would expect profit for the year to 31st March 2011 to be significantly ahead of current expectations.

Positive trend continues for Bossard Issuing its third quarter results Bossard said the positive sales trend for the first half of the year continued.

he Group achieved quarterly sales of CHF 119.4 million (89 million euros), showing a 27% increase (32.2% in local currencies) compared to same period 2009. For the first nine months sales reached CHF 363.5 million, 21.2% up in Swiss francs, 25% up in local currencies. Annual sales are projected at CHF 470 million with profits expected to surpass the 2008 record result of CHF 32.4 million.

Hilti “gaining growth momentum” In its report on the second four-month period of 2010 Hilti Group says it came back on track achieving a 5.6% increase in sales in local currencies compared with the first eight months of 2009.

he Group, however, said it was penalised by the strengthening of the Swiss Franc, resulting in reported eight months sales rising only 2.5% to CHF 2.58 billion (approximately 1.93 billion euros). Hilti says growth was driven by the successful launch of new products and good growth in new business areas, notably solar panel fastening systems. The acquisition of Unirac in the USA contributed 1% to the increase in total sales. The Group benefited from the dynamism of Latin American and Asian markets. In Europe, Near/Middle East and Africa the picture is described as mixed. In North America the sales decline has been stopped and slight growth achieved.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

Hilti reported a turn round in profit with an operating result of CHF 167 million, 223% up on the same period 2009. Net profits were impacted by currency exchange but still rose 132% to CHF 54 million. Personnel numbers have increased slightly to 19,977 worldwide. “We have made very good headway with implementation of our stabilising measures introduced in 2009 and assume that sales will continue to grow over the coming months,” stated CEO Bo Risberg when commenting on the interim result. “These positive trends, however, must not be allowed to conceal the fact that, in many countries, the volume of construction relevant to us is still showing a decline and economic recovery in several markets remains slow.”

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news

Tremco illbruck acquires Turkish distributor Tremco illbruck has recently announced that it has acquired Park Dis Ticaret A.S, a distributor of Tremco illbruck sealants, tapes and membranes, along with its own Park brand of complementary products. Based in Istanbul, Turkey, Park has annual sales of more than 7 million euros. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

resident/managing director of RPM Building Solutions Europe Reiner Eisenhut commented: “Park will increase the presence of Tremco illbruck and the RPM Building Solutions Group (BSG) in Turkey and the Middle East.” He added: “As part of the RPM BSG, Park will also be able to expand its product offerings into new categories, such as fire stopping. Park will continue to be led by Adnan Akkin, who founded the business in 1994, and his management team, which will also assume responsibilities for Tremco illbruck sales and distribution in Turkey.”

75 years young Zandvoort Draadindustrie BV, the manufacturer of HJZ specialty nails, will be celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2011.

he family company, based in Haarlem, the Netherlands, was founded in 1936 and is already being run by the fourth generation of the family, with the company continuing to grow. Zandvoort specialises in manufacturing different kinds of hardened steel nails, as well as a complete range of stainless steel, brass, aluminium and red copper nails. The company recently expanded its product range to include stainless steel nails on coil, hardened Dübels/Fixpins and special nails to be used in agriculture.

world fastener demand to expand 8.5% per year In a recently released report Freedonia forecasts world demand for industrial fasteners to expand 8.5% per year through to 2014. The Asia Pacific region is expected to post strongest sales growth.

he major driver worldwide will be the recovery of automotive demand. Freedonia also expects world fixed investment levels will continue to rise and that the global durable goods manufacturing environment will improve. Mechanical fastener sales are expected to be restrained in some markets by increasing use of alternative joining technologies (adhesives particularly) and by production methods that eliminate or reduce fastener consumption. Asia Pacific growth will be led by China at a projected 12.8% annual growth in demand. Automotive demand will be a significant element, together with China’s ongoing industrialisation and growing manufacturing output. China is expected to account for 25% of all additional global fastener demand through to 2014 and by 2019 is forecast to have a larger fastener market than Japan and US combined. Freedonia says China will be the leading producer of fasteners in the world - it expects foreign investment in production there to continue as well as the development of

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

Chinese owned fastener manufacturing. It believes China will also narrow the gap in fastener technology compared with the US, Japan and Europe. Freedonia sees a bounce in fastener demand in the US, Western Europe and Japan as the slump in durables manufacturing is reversed. Freedonia projects world fastener demand in 2014 to reach US$ 80.5 billion from a 2009 level of US$53.6 billion. US and Western European demand by 2014 are projected at US$17.9 billion and US$17.5 billion respectively. This implies an annual growth rate of around 8% for the US but a more subdued 5.6% for Western Europe. Asia Pacific demand is projected to reach US$33.3 billion by 2014, at an annual growth rate of more than 10%. Freedonia estimates all other regions to reach US$11.8 billion by 2014 at an average annual growth rate of more than 9%. The Freedonia World Industrial Fasteners to 2014 report is available at www.freedonia.com for US$6,100 a copy.

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news Interfast Europe appoints Jason Grey as sales director Interfast Inc, the global aircraft and specialty fastener distributor, announced Jason Grey had been appointed sales director for Interfast Europe.

eter Oleck president of Interfast Inc commented: “Jason is a tremendous addition to our team who really understands the UK market and is very accomplished at building sales.” He added: “Jason has spearheaded European business development and sales teams with leading international fastener suppliers in our sector over the past 20 years. He has a track record that speaks for itself, significantly growing UK and European sales.” Grey will be responsible for European sales initiatives focussed on aircraft manufacturers (OEM - original equipment manufacturers) and the maintenance repair and overhaul (MRO) markets. “I see Interfast as the most capable, privately owned fastener distributor able to provide credible competition within the market sector after recent consolidations,” says Grey. “Interfast is globally well-positioned to support OEM and MRO customers with the increases in demand for fasteners that is broadly anticipated within the industry over the next few years.” Interfast Europe was established in September 2009, building a physical presence for Interfast to better service its aerospace and defence customers in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, and Switzerland. Peter Oleck was promoted to president of Interfast Inc. at the end of October joining CEO Douglas Woollings in managing the company. “Peter has played an instrumental role in the growth of Interfast,” says Douglas Woollings. “He has actively supported our team in building Interfast’s presence in Asia, while managing Interfast’s U.S. operations. He also has spearheaded our focus to bring new levels of support to maintenance, repair and overhaul operations in the aerospace industry. His operational knowledge and strategic thinking is a tremendous asset.” As president, Oleck will be responsible for directing the strategic growth of Interfast and overseeing operational aspects of the company.

Bossard launches ‘Apps’ Bossard has launched three fastener calculator applications, which can either be used online at its website or purchased and downloaded from the iPhone Apps Store.

he three calculators are designed for engineers, technicians, designers and students working with design and assembly of bolted joints. The Cost Savings Calculator estimates the potential costs savings through rationlisation of fasteners. Bossard argues that the cost of fasteners makes up only around 15% of total costs. 85% occur from procurement activities, internal logistic, assembly preparation and other activities, which makes rationisation very interesting as the cost savings potential is high. The second app is a tightening torque and preload calculator for sizes M1 to M68 for various combinations of friction coefficients and property classes. The calculations are based on the VDI 2230 standard for calculating bolted joints. The third app, again based on VDI 2230, provides a thread engagement calculator to determine the correct thread engagement length for through and blind hole applications.

Rapierstar salutes the Mercian Regiment UK based specialist fastener and fixings distributor Rapierstar Limited honoured the return from Afghanistan of the 1st Battalion Mercian (Cheshire) Regiment by providing the venue for a homecoming party for the returning heroes.

apierstar was in the unique position to salute the battle hardened troops and show their support by hosting over 1,000 soldiers and civic dignitaries within its recently purchased extensive 90,000sq ft distribution warehouse and head office near Congleton, Cheshire. The battalion had earlier proudly marched through the town of Congleton with fixed bayonets, band playing and colours flying to the delight of crowds of union flag waving people. The soldiers were then presented with the Afghanistan Medal at a ceremony outside the town hall before moving on to the Rapierstar party venue. “The bravery and dedication of the troops has been inspirational” stated Rapierstar managing director David Furness. “They have been separated from their loved ones performing a very difficult task, we also have to remember the 12 soldiers who lost their lives in Afghanistan, and more than 60 who were injured.” He added: “we are proud to support the Mercians in this way.” The battalion’s commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Andy Hadfield, aged 42, from Lichfield, said: “The march in Congleton was phenomenal. We expected something big but this has been amazing. Congleton has a special place in our hearts.” The soldiers and dignitaries enjoyed entertainment, a bar and food prepared by the Royal Irish Catering Corp well into the evening.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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MBD publishes new report on UK fastener industry Market and Business Development has announced the publication of a Development Report on the UK Industrial Fasteners Market.

eviewing the UK market between 2006 and 2010 MBD assesses UK apparent consumption of industrial fasteners declined by 26% to £582.3 million, largely the result of the significant downturn in UK car production and reduced construction activity. However, sales of industrial fasteners are expected to return to growth in 2010, as there are signs of a recovery in the automotive sector, although construction activity remains subdued. MBD expects demand for industrial fasteners to increase by 11% to £647.4 million in 2010. However, this still represents a 19% decline compared with 2008, when sales peaked at £801.8 million. Looking forward to the period 2011 to 2015 MBD sees the UK market for industrial fasteners increasing, although annual growth levels are anticipated to remain moderate at between 1% and 3% in real terms. In the short-term, market development is expected to continue to be hindered by the uncertain economic conditions, which are likely to continue to exert a downward pressure on key end user industries. In 2015, the value of the industrial fasteners market is forecast to reach £714.5 million (at 2010 prices), representing overall growth of 10% in real terms compared with the current year. Threaded fastener sales are expected to reach £570 million (2010 prices) by 2015, 10% up on this year, and are expected to continue to represent some 80% of the total industrial fasteners market. Bolts are expected to account for close to half of all threaded fastener sales, with nuts declining in relative terms to around 25%. Non threaded fastener sales are expected to grow by 12% in real terms over the five year period. The full report is available from MBD at £600 a copy. www.mbdltd.co.uk

Respecting trademarks Well known trademarked product names can easily fall into use as generic description. In the fastener industry Torx® probably suffers more than most. We asked Marty Bieschke, director of Global IP and Licensing at Acument® Global Technologies, Inc to clarify the trademark situation.

imply stated, use of a trademark is permitted when used in a valid and proper manner. For possible articles that may be submitted to a magazine like Fastener + Fixing Magazine, this could conceivably be for two reasons. First, the article is discussing the Torx® drive from a technical or informative perspective. Anyone of course may do so (assuming the report is indeed factual). In this type of use, it is permitted as long as the proper designation “®” is used with the name (i.e. Torx®) and recognition is directly given in the article that “Torx® is a registered trademark of Acument Intellectual Properties, LLC”. A second type of use, and the one more problematic, is when the name is used to imply the writer is or can manufacture or sell Torx® fasteners or is trying to pass off their 6-lobe as being Torx® brand. Only Acument, our licensed manufacturers or those who buy the fastener from a licensed manufacturer can use the name in this sense. All others must call the product 6-lobe or some such other generic description. Any unauthorised use in this manner represents trademark infringement, which Acument takes seriously and aggressively responds to. A listing of all licensed suppliers of Torx® products is contained on our web site: http://www.acument.com/licensing/licensedsuppliers.asp

Fastener + Fixing Magazine takes all reasonable care to ensure that it respects trademarks and will, on occasions, check with submitters of editorial and advertising if it is not certain about the legitimacy of use of a trademarked or registered name. We also encourage all trademark holders, in making submissions, to be explicit in indicating their registrations. We would ask all contributors to the magazine to assist us in endeavouring to respect trademarks and registrations.

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Taiwan show attracts top international buyers The 2010 Taiwan International Fastener Show closed on 20th October having attracted 1,488 international buyers and a total of 17,000 visitors during its two-day run, reports TAITRA, creating a strong impression for an inaugural event and laying a solid foundation for future exhibitions.

n addition to buyers from Europe, the US and Japan, 190 exhibiting companies greeted visitors from emerging markets, including Russia, Eastern Europe and the Middle East. According to a visitor survey conducted by joint-organiser, the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), over

80% of interviewees saw the products on display as highly diversified and reported finding suitable suppliers during the fair. Joe Chen, chairman of the Taiwan Industrial Fasteners Institute, the other organiser, expressed satisfaction over the number of visitors. He also said, on behalf of TIFI members, that the effect of the fair had far exceeded expectations. Sponsor Kaohsiung City Government saw the exhibition helping create business opportunities for the venue and also giving international buyers a favourable impression of the Kaohsiung region. Leading Taiwanese manufacturers included San Shing Fastech, Chun Yu Works & Co., Chun Zu Machinery Ind. Co., Taiho Tool Mfg. Co. and Fang Sheng Screw Co., Stampo Enterprise Co. showcased a large cold heading machine, which attracted several enquiries. Many exhibitors arranged factory visits for buyers after the exhibition, and strong business opportunities were expected to develop. For the “One-on-One Procurement Meeting” held

on 19th October, TAITRA invited 22 major buyers from Europe, the United States, Brazil and Japan ranging from specialist fastener importers to major industrial corporations and automotive systems companies. A total of 200 meetings were held and TAITRA reports that many business transactions were achieved onsite. Further opportunities to network took place at the Welcome Party held in the evening at the Grand Hi-Lai Hotel. TAITRA estimates that business worth US$200 million was concluded as a result of the show. The next Taiwan International Fastener Show is scheduled for two years time in Kaohsiung.

Visitor impressions Fastener + Fixing Magazine surveyed several European and US visitors on their return from the Taiwan International Fastener Show.

or most respondents there was little surprise in the range of exhibitors at the fair - most of the well-known Taiwanese producers were present. A pleasant surprise was the number of exhibitors departing from the small booths they usually occupy at international shows around the world in favour of “real show stands, some of them with quite intricate designs with floor space up to 40 or 50 square metres, some even offering bites to eat and drinks”. As one European buyer put it, “the companies were evidently proud of a doing a big thing in Kaohsiung with the whole buying side of the fastener world invited”. The quantity and quality of the visitors exceeded several respondents’ expectations. “European and US buyers from most of the big players were certainly all over the place,” said one visitor, with the Grand Hi-Lai Hotel simply “threaded”. One result was a heavily choked show registration system, eventually overcome by the organisers handing out badge holders into which visitors could place a business card. One of the few other criticisms of the show, apart from the limited catering facilities, was that the “aisles were so crowded

that you could hardly walk most of the time. Stopping and standing was a real challenge and every five metres you saw another familiar visitor face”. Altogether, these conditions made having discussions with exhibitors difficult. TAITRA had previously acknowledged that the Kaohsiung Arena venue was small, with a nominal capacity of 320 standard booths, but they were looking for the facility to be substantially expanded in two years time. Not surprisingly most international visitors took advantage of the opportunity before and after the show to visit factories in Taiwan and also elsewhere in Asia, with many staging through China, Vietnam, Malaysia and India. Some Taiwanese factories were reported to have received as many as twelve different companies in a single day. One senior European purchasing director summarised the potential for the show: “ It was unique in providing the opportunity to visit the factories within a few hours and to be able to meet with key raw material suppliers also. This will be definitely a must visit show to attend in the future. I hope though it will be held in Taipei or at least in a venue more adequate to its size.”

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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India - market of extraordinary and sustained opportunities The recent Commonwealth Games in Delhi epitomised India. Aspirations are sky high, delivery is complex, sometimes inhibited by bureaucracy and infrastructure, but in the end India demonstrates its unique vibrancy and absolute commitment to be a major world player.

or fastener suppliers world throughout that makes the prospect of the first Fastener Fair to be staged in India 16th - 17th April 2011 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai a truly exciting and potentially highly rewarding prospect. The two-day Fair is organised by Inter Ads -Brooks Exhibitions (India) Pvt, Ltd, a joint venture between the organisers of Fastener Fair Stuttgart, Mack Brooks Exhibitions, United Kingdom and Inter Ads Brooks, India. Fastener Fair India - Mumbai will be co-located with BLECH India 2011, a dedicated trade exhibition for sheet metal working, which when first staged in November 2009 attracted over 3,600 visitors mainly from the Indian industrial market. By population India is the second largest economy in the world, with nearly 1.2 billion people and an already substantial middle class expected to increase 10-fold by 2025. Significantly, domestic consumption rather than export sustained India through the global downturn: 2009 GDP growth held at 6.9%, hammering back in 2010 to a projected 9% plus. A vast country with a vast population, infrastructure remains a major challenge - but that very challenge, combined with the government’s clear commitment to sustaining economic growth at better than 8% annually, presents a massive and long term demand for fastening technology. Added to that India is rapidly becoming a major small car production hub. Capacity for over 750,000 more cars is already committed by major multinationals on top of the approaching 2 million units currently produced annually - to say nothing of some 8 million two wheelers and a rapidly growing truck and off highway output. For international suppliers of the fastener and fixing industry aiming to develop their business in India, Fastener Fair India Mumbai 2011 is an ideal, easily budgeted, platform to establish successful business relations, with customers, suppliers, local agents or partners. It also offers an excellent opportunity to gain first hand experience of the distinctive Indian business culture,

a real understanding of which is crucial to long-term business development in the country. Mumbai is a great location for the first Fastener Fair India on the western coast of the sub-continent it is the perfect place to enter this market of untapped potential. A large number of foreign companies have already settled here (the region attracts 25% of the foreign investment in India) and the administration is familiar with the needs and wishes of new investors. International traffic links are first class and there are good connections to other industrial centres throughout the country. The Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC), where Fastener Fair India - Mumbai 2011 will take place, is ideally situated along the Western Express Highway in Goregaon and is only a 10 minute drive from the national and the international airports and 20 minutes from the heart of the city. Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is serviced by numerous international airlines from all over the world. Ready for the challenges and rewards of India? Then reserve your stand at Fastener Fair India - Mumbai 2011 by visiting www.fastenerfair.com or contacting the Fastener Fair India team:

India:

Inter Ads - Brooks Exhibitions (India) Pvt. Ltd Gurgaon, Haryana, India Tel: +91 (0) 124 452 4200 Fax: +91 (0) 124 452 4227 Email: fastenerfair.india@interads.in

Outside India:

Mack Brooks Exhibitions St Albans, United Kingdom Tel: +44 1727 814 400 Fax: +44 1727 814 501 Email: india@fastenerfair.com

German investment in Deepak Fasteners

Sundram Fasteners first half sales up 42%

Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungs GmbH (DEG) of Köln, a member of the KfW Bankengruppe, is reported to have acquired an undisclosed minority stake in india’s Deepak Fasteners Ltd.

Sundram Fasteners half year domestic sales rose 36% to 6.4 billion rupees (103 million euros) while exports surged 61% to 2.28 billion rupees. Net profit for the half year was 534 million rupees up 49%.

he investment by DEG will be used for expansion. It follows a US$15 million investment by the Banyan Tree Growth capital LLC equity fund earlier in 2010. Deepak, which was founded in 1959, is primarily owned by the Kalra family and headquartered in Ludhiana, Northern India. In 2008 Deepak acquired the Unbrako fastener brand and its Shannon, Ireland production plant from SPS Technologies, subsidiary of Precision Castparts. Deepak has operations in the US, Australia, Canada, UK and Ireland. DEG has a track record of investing in India since 1964 - it signed new business worth 463 million euros across Asia during 2009.

or the second quarter, ending 30th September 2010, Sundram Fasteners reported revenue up 40.2% year on year, and 14.5% up quarter on quarter. Rising raw material costs, however, were identified as the key reason for operation profit margins of 12.6% to show a contraction both year on year and sequentially. Nevertheless operating profits rose 17.7% year on year to 587 million rupees (9.5 million euros). Net profit for the quarter stood at 309 million rupees, a 64% increase on same quarter 2009.

T 20

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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asian news

U Queen focuses on micro part formers A Taiwanese manufacturer of forming machinery has founded a new subsidiary, U Queen Machinery, and transferred its experience and technology completely to it.

t will continue to develop micro-miniature products in the future. Its current machines series is an automatic screw former, suitable especially for wire diameter of less than 3mm (full range from 0.5mm - 6mm), which includes machines from 1 die 2 blow to 6 die 6 blow multi-station models. In future U Queen will concentrate on further development in the area of microminiature part formers.

Powers Fasteners CSC supplies expands footprint record tonnage to in Asia fastener companies Powers Fasteners has established offices and warehouse facilities in Mumbai, India, with additional warehouses in Delhi, Contractor Supply reports.

effery Powers, president of Powers Fasteners, stated: “Our new operations in India will give local contractors and engineers the local support needed to help continue the growth in the region.” Powers Fasteners named Ajay Kulkarni as managing director and Sumit Bhattacharya as chairman. Kulkarni reportedly has 15 years experience with AEG Power Tools, as well as managing a private distributorship specialising in electric tools, concrete anchors and fasteners. Bhattacharya, who holds an engineering degree, was managing director of Proctor & Gamble India. Powers has also recently opened a Shanghai office under the direction of Jake Olsen to focus on China’s growing transportation industry. In addition to distribution, the Shanghai office is focused on quality control and product testing.

Report from GlobalFastenerNews.com

China Steel Corporation reported it had third quarter orders from the Taiwanese domestic fastener industry for 236,700 tonnes of wire rod and wire - the highest quarter in three years.

SC said quarterly consumption had remained around 200,000 tonnes for most of the three years but had dipped as low as 120,000 tonnes at the depth of the recession. China Steel has announced it will increase its supply of high quality wire products. Taichung subsidiary Dragon Steel Corporation has commissioned a new blast furnace increasing its maximum steel output to 2.5 million metric tonnes per year. It has switched its electric arc furnace, originally designed to produce steel billets, to steel wires and rods. Dragon Steel is expected to increase annual production of low-carbon steel wire rod to 100,000 tonnes, releasing other CSC capacity to be dedicated to higher grade wire rod products.

Lakshmi Precision reports four-fold profit increase Lakshmi Precision Screws Ltd, based in Rohtak, India, reported second fiscal quarter net profit more than quadrupled to 22.1 million rupees (356,000 euros). The automotive and industrial fastener manufacturer reported sales increased by 43.5% to 754 million rupees (12.1 million euros) for the quarter ended 30th September, 2010. according to Indian financial media.

Taiwan fastener delegation to South America Thirteen Taiwanese fastener manufacturers completed a 12-day tour to Argentina, Chile and Peru, organised by TAITRA, the Taiwanese external trade development body. The delegation staged trade meetings and product displays in Buenos Aires, Santiago and Lima. In addition to a representation by the Taiwan Industrial Fasteners Institute the delegation included Tong Hwei, Patta International, Min Hwei, Master United Corp, Kwantex Research, Ben Yuan Enterprise and A Jate Steel amongst others. These reports are based on information provided by Fastener World

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

UNBRAKO RANGE

DFL RANGE

russian + cis news Alexander Ostashov, Editor Fastener, Adhesives, Tools and… Magazine www.fastinfo.ru

Putin upbeat about Russian automotive market

“The Russian automobile market is potentially the biggest one in Europe. Besides, there are good perspectives for production of produce for export to adjoining countries. That is why we need not only medium but also large-scale productions.”

his was Prime-Minister Vladimir Putin’s announcement to a meeting for development of localisation of cars and automobile components production in Russia, held in St. Petersburg. “Until recently we could hardly call St. Petersburg and the Leningradskaya Region centres for Russian automobile production, but now the situation is fundamentally changed,” Prime Minister Putin noted. Ford Company was the first one to come to the region, other producers followed. “And now we see a new plant coming almost every year: Toyota in 2007, General Motors in 2008, Nissan in 2009. In 2010, now, today, we have been present at the official opening of Hyundai plants and Magna Company,” the Prime Minister said in a statement issued by his press centre. “A similar modern automobile cluster has developed in Kaluga literally from grass roots; new car production has also sprung up in Moscow, Yelabuga and other Russian cities. The new factories are being constructed by famous world automotive brands that have selected Russia as the location to realise their development programs.” The prime minister noted that world automotive businesses are using a regime of industrial assembly in Russia and reminded that discounted import tariffs on components were conditional on the creation of full production in Russia and continuous increases in localisation. “More and more component parts are to produced in the Russian Federation,” he emphasised. Mr Putin also underlined that previously reached agreements signed by the Government of the Russian Federation with foreign investor partners must be strictly fulfilled and are not liable to review. “I hope that our partners will, as they have done so far, fulfil their obligations as to the plants’ capacities and localisation.” He also underlined that there are more possibilities for the development of automobile enterprises in Russia, which need to be used. “Russia is one of the biggest producers and exporters of metallurgical industry, but more than 90% of metals necessary for the automobile industry are imported from abroad. That means we can and have to do a lot in this area in the immediate future and this will, of course, improve the production economy in Russia itself”.

UZPS Quality Management System approved

3M Russia appoints new general director

The Ural Plant of Precision Alloys (UZPS), part of the NLMK-Sort, has passed the inspection control of the Quality Management System (QMS) for compliance with GOST R ISO 9001-2008.

On 1st November 2010 Reza Vaziri started as the new general director of 3M Russia, replacing Svetlana Balanova, who was appointed chief operating officer of Attenti, a company in Tel-Aviv, Israel, purchased by 3M.

he audit, conducted by the certification body LLC UTSSI Uralsertifikat, confirmed the validity of the certificate of compliance for the QMS with respect to the design, manufacture and supply of industrial hardware and machine-building fasteners. In December 2009 LLC NLMK-Sort, a subsidiary of JSC NLMK, took management control of the grade division of the NLMK Novolipetsk Metallurgical Complex. The production structure of NLMK-Sort includes facilities that form a complete cycle from collection and recycling of scrap ferrous materials to production of high processed metallurgical products - reinforcing bar, wire rod and wire products. The core facilities of NLMK-Sort are NSMMZ (electric steelmaking and production of bar iron) and JSC UZPS (hardware production), both located in the Sverdlovsk Region.

orking in 3M Company since 1981, Reza Vaziri is a highly experienced manager with an innovative approach towards business management and organisation administration. His professional experience includes marketing and sales management, management of industrial markets in Germany, and key customers management. Since 2000 he was in charge of business development of materials for the automobile industry in 3M Europe, Middle East and Africa, in 2008 he was appointed general director of 3M Switzerland. Until recently he held the position of director for competitive ability in Western Europe.

New truck plant in St. Petersburg St. Petersburg has assigned land in the Nevskiy Area to Yarovit Motors for the construction of truck plant. The resolution was adopted at a meeting of the city government and plant construction will be finished within three years. Yarovit Motors is a Russian truck producer, founded jointly by Elgin System (USA) holding 51%, and Tracks & Dumpers (UK) holding 49% of the company’s shares. Currently Yarovit produces lorries at the facilities of Leningradskiy Metal Plant in St. Petersburg.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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Severstal-Metiz offers new fastener packaging The Orlovskiy Plant of Severstal-Metiz now offers an alternative to its fastener consumers to buy fasteners in new flexible containers as an alternative to the previous standard packaging of 50kg wooden boxes.

he company notes: “The packing is designed with a series of service functions: a discharge hatch, hinges for loading and unloading operations, and a pocket for product documentation. It also meets modern aesthetics requirements, provides no problems with utilisation and is more economic”. The Orel plant of Severstal-Metiz has started using the new BIG-BAG containers based on the positive experiences of other industrial enterprises.

Mercedes trucks now assembled in Russia Production of Mercedes-Benz lorries has started in Russia. In conjunction with the Russian KamAZ company assembly capacity for 4,500 trucks per year has been established in Naberezhniye Chelny.

nitially the plant will produce Actros and Axor models: later the model line-up will be broadened to include Atego and special trucks Zetros and Unimog. Assembly of the updated Axor and Atego, recently presented at the exhibition IAA-2010 in Hannover, will start in 2011.

Additional news from Mariya Valiakhmetova, editor of Metiz Magazine, Ukraine.

Avtovaz back in profit The Russian maker of the Lada model, in which Renault has a 25% stake, reported it had returned to profitability in the first half of 2010.

vtovaz achieved first half-year net profit of 3.1 billion rubles (around 72 million euros). Avtovaz’ future was severely threatened by the financial crisis in 2008/2009 but it was assisted by a Russian Federation scrappage scheme, which only applied to locally produced vehicles. This year Russian Technologies increased its stake in the company to 36% by injecting 730 million euros in a new subscription of shares. Renault would not invest further in Avtovaz but did commit to supply knowledge and technology reported to be worth more than 200 million euros.

RMP increases output

Mechel steel plant in Romania complies with EU requirements

The Rechitsky Metalware Plant in the Republic of Belarus has increased its production volumes during 2010 to date.

he European Commission monitored Mechel Targoviste and Mechel Campia Turzii during the period from 2004 to 2008 following the granting of state aid to both plants as part of a privatisation process. Monitoring included certain parameters of the companies’ activity, including: labour efficiency increase, reduction of materials consumption, manpower optimisation, modernisation of production facilities, and compliance with the EU environmental standards. The European Commission’s final report has confirmed compliance of Mechel Targoviste and Mechel Campia Turzii with all the key benchmarks required. Andrey Deineko, chief executive officer of Mechel-Steel Management OOO, commented: “The European Commission confirmed our Romanian subsidiaries’ compliance with the key restructuring benchmarks and this means that we would not have to pay back the state aid that had been granted to us during the privatisation period. The company invested over US$100 million in Mechel Targoviste and Mechel Campia Turzii between 2004 and 2008 which is 1.5 times above the level of investments specified by the EU. Owing to the crisis the subsidiaries’ performance in 2008 was worse than we had expected. We plan to reach the pre-crisis production levels by the end of 2010. We shall also continue our started modernisation program, the main aim of which is new technologies in steelsmelting and rolling to increase output of high value added products.”

n September RMP’s output of metalware was more than 10,600 tonnes adding to the previous eight months production of 81,600 tonnes, an 8% increase on the same period in 2009. January to August nail product was 39,100 tonnes, up 9% on 2009 same period. Fastener production in the eight months grew by 47% to 17,300 tonnes. Production of steel wire fell by 9% in the first eight months to 25,100 tonnes.

Mechel Group has confirmed compliance with European Commission viability benchmarks within the framework of the restructuring of the Romanian steel industry.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

FASTENER&FISHING.fh11 3/9/10 12:11 P�gina 1

american news By John Wolz editor@GlobalFastenerNews.com

PennEngineering acquires aerospace fastener maker PennEngineering expanded its aerospace holdings by acquiring Leland, NC-based QRP Inc, which manufactures quick release pins, lanyards, latches, and access fastener products. Terms of the transaction, completed on 30th September, were not disclosed.

ark Petty, CEO of PennEngineering said: “This strategic acquisition expands our fastening product portfolio and we expect significant growth opportunities for both of our companies.” He added: “QRP’s wide range of quick release pin products and related specialty fasteners will provide us with new capabilities and expertise to extend our offerings in key customer markets.” Founded more than 30 year ago, QRP supplies standard and custom-designed quick release pins for the aerospace, military, automotive, and marine industries, among others. The pins are manufactured in accordance with NASM23460 and NAS1332 and meet PAN, EFA, and AS requirements. “This represents an exciting opportunity to grow in conjunction

with PennEngineering,” said Tom Kievit, president of QRP, “and as a result there will be ongoing benefits for both of our companies in the future.” Kievit noted that the current QRP management team remains in place and that QRP will continue to operate its business from its current locations in North Carolina. This latest news follows PennEngineering’s 2009 purchase of aerospace fastener manufacturer 3V Fasteners, marking its entry to the aerospace fastener marketplace. PennEngineering has also introduced AS9100 quality systems in key facilities. “All these initiatives serve to reinforce PennEngineering’s position in the aerospace and defense markets,” Petty added.

Precision Castparts outbid in McKechnie Aerospace deal Precision Castparts Corp. was reportedly outbid for rival fastener manufacturer McKechnie Aerospace. The winning bid was made by aerospace components maker TransDigm Group, which agreed to pay US$1.27 billion for McKechnie. The deal is expected to close by the end of the year.

. Nicholas Howley CEO TransDigm stated: “This is the first sizable acquisition opportunity that we have seen in the last 3 or 4 years that meets our stringent strategic, operational and value-creation criteria.” He added: “They have continually invested in new platforms and are well positioned for growth as the commercial aerospace markets continue to recover from the recent down cycle and the new platforms begin to ramp up.” Interest in McKechnie, which makes fasteners, latches and valves, comes as Boeing and Airbus boost 2011 output to record levels. “There’s substantial pent-up demand for continued consolidation among commercial-aviation partsmakers,” said William Alderman of Alderman & Co. Capital LLC. “The trend and the need for this rationalization did not change during the recession; it was simply delayed.” McKechnie revenue is expected to top US$300 million in 2010. The business, which employs about 1,500 workers,

consists of seven major operating units that primarily sell to the worldwide commercial aerospace markets. Approximately two-thirds of the revenues are sold to the commercial transport OEM and aftermarkets; about 15% to the business and regional jet OEM and aftermarkets, and about 15% to the defense segment. McKechnie has major platform positions in both the OEM and aftermarket on a range of currently produced Boeing and Airbus aircraft as well as a many regional and business turbine aircraft. The company also has significant content on the new Boeing 787, Airbus A380 and A350. Former SPS Technologies executive Jim Costello is president of McKechnie’s Fasteners Group, which is comprised of Valley Todeco in Sylmar, CA, and the Linread businesses in the UK. The Fasteners Group generates about 20% of overall McKechnie revenues. In addition, McKechnie produces proprietary connecting rods and supplies certain mechanical controls to both

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

Boeing and Airbus. McKechnie’s two largest operating units - Los Angeles-based Hartwell and Electromech/Welco in Wichita, KS comprise about 60% of company revenue and a “significantly higher percentage of the total company profits.” Hartwell designs and manufactures proprietary external aerospace latches and connecting devices. Electromech/Welco is a major supplier of proprietary aerospace motors, blowers, valves and actuators. Irvine, CA-based McKechnie is owned by private-equity firm JLL Partners Inc. and Morgan Stanley. The partners bought McKechnie in 2007 for US$850 million from London-based Melrose Plc. Headquartered in Cleveland, OH, TransDigm designs, produces and supplies aircraft components for use on nearly all commercial and military aircraft in service today. The company generated fiscal 2009 revenue of US$762 million and net income of US$163 million.

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Lenhart appointed to NFDA Executive Mark Lenhart in the new executive vice president of the National Fastener Distributors Association.

verything I’ve done prepares me for this position,” the new executive vice president of the National Fastener Distributors Association said. In more than 20 years of experience with Chicago businesses, Mark Lenhart’s previous roles include sales, business strategy, a start-up company, distribution and industrial - including the automotive and agriculture industries. He was responsible for development of marketing, sales and communication strategies for subsidiary companies serving industrial markets, including a metal fabrication firm selling to the automotive industry. Most recently Lenhart was marketing and sales manager for distribution with a global provider of veterinary products. Though he has not held an executive position managing a trade group, Lenhart knows associations from the board member’s perspective: He was president of the Chicago chapter of

the American Marketing Association. Lenhart told GlobalFastenerNews.com he understands the ultimate measure of NFDA is distributor membership and participation. Associate members will join and attend if distributors are there. The NFDA reported 94 distributor members and 74 associate members. The 168 current total is down from 252 in 2005. The recession is only part of the lower numbers - the NFDA has also lost members as the result of company acquisitions. This year the NFDA also acknowledged losing a few domestic associate members due to its globalization initiatives. In a slow economy NFDA needs to focus on programs offering the most value to members rather than try to provide many services, Lenhart explained. “Less is more.” The NFDA has begun a globalization initiative with Taiwan and European distributors’ associations and is seeking what Lenhart termed as “collaboration

and cross-pollination.” Thus far the NFDA has put its “toe in the water” on globalization. Yet to come may be a trade group trip, which would include encouraging exporting from the U.S. NFDA president Jim Derry cited Lenhart’s “multi-faceted business background and his understanding of the challenges and opportunities our industry faces,” for his selection. “Mark has a wealth of experience in the key areas of business development and growth, marketing strategy, change management and strategic alliance-building which will allow NFDA to grow and introduce new services designed to facilitate your firm’s long-term growth.” During the NFDA’s business session at the autumn meeting, Derry announced the financial benchmarking program would be expanded. Other associations are invited to participate to broaden the number of participants.

Vertullo at Pac-West: Technical knowledge can reduce costs and risk The best opportunity to prevent a mistake is at the point a fastener distributor is purchasing fasteners, consultant Carman Vertullo told the Pacific-West Fastener Association.

ertullo advocated creating “TKP” or “Technical Knowledge Policies” to avoid fastener problems. Fastener companies have freight polices, credit policies, payment polices and a policy for returns, Vertullo noted. “Why not a technical knowledge policy?” Technical knowledge can “keep your customers happy, protect your profits and limit your liability”, Vertullo advised. He described it as “complicated stuff about fasteners that gives us headaches and nobody cares much about until there is trouble.”

Closing the loop of technical problems • RFQ: The process begins at the quote request. “Gather the information needed,” Vertullo advised. Do they need certifications and test reports? “Document, document and document.” • The sale: “Do not ignore the written purchase order; be sure you are selling what you quoted; know what a special is and be sure the customer knows too and be aware of other-than product requirements, including packaging.” • Purchasing: The best opportunity to prevent a mistake is at the point of purchasing fasteners. “Go back to the customer quote. Do not work on autopilot.” • Receiving: The receiving staff needs the broadest product knowledge and this stage is “the last ‘good’ chance to prevent a mistake.” Vertullo advised putting “inspection” in the process to make it “receiving inspection.” • Shipping: “The last chance to prevent a mistake,” Vertullo pointed out. “Order pulling and packing should be an organized effort.” Watch for revisions. “Know what REV means,” Vertullo

advised. “The majority of scrap is due to REV being ignored.” • Returns: “Have a formal, documented system for handling customer returns and complaints” and “process ‘lessons learned’.”

What gets us in trouble? Companies with no policy on how to use technical knowledge safely are risking trouble, Vertullo finds. Thinking you are an “expert” or telling customers you are an “expert” can be asking for trouble - as can having people anywhere in the company lacking sufficient technical knowledge to do their jobs. Vertullo urged companies to identify “someone at a high level as chief technical knowledge officer.” The company should know who knows what and “who are the go-to guys and gals.” Owners and managers should “know enough not be snowed,” consultants can fill in technical knowledge gaps and suppliers can provide technical advise to customers. Vertullo suggested fastener employers include a basic math test in the hiring process. “Does the applicant know whether 1/4 or 1/7 is larger?” He also advised testing knowledge regularly, encouraging growth through a TKP and compensation for superior performance. Technical knowledge may be gained in formal training such as provided by the Fastener Training Institute or by opening and reading the Industrial Fasteners Institute Fastener Standards text. The expensive way to gain technical knowledge may be “experience,” Vertullo counseled. “Mistakes, on-the-job training, mistakes, hard knocks, mistakes, skinned knees and mistakes are expensive ways to gain technical knowledge. It is great if it is somebody else’s experience.”

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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Fastener Fair Stuttgart Where: Stuttgart, Germany When: 22 Feb - 24 Feb 2011 Web: www.fastenerfair.com What: The fastener event for europe.

IndiaMart Handtools + Fastener Expo

Asia Pacific Sourcing

BUDMA - International Construction Fair

BLECH Russia

BAU

ISET / Interinstrument

Totally Tools, DIY & Secure

Fasttec Expo

International BouwBeurs 2011

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Hardware/DIY, Home, Garden Show

Ferroforma

Where: Chennai, India When: 17 Dec - 19 Dec 2010 Web: www.iihtexpo.com What: Handtools and fasteners exhibition.

Where: Poznan, Poland When: 11 Jan - 14 Jan 2011 Web: www.budma.pl What: Building technology, equipment and materials.

Where: Munich, Germany When: 17 Jan - 22 Jan 2011 Web: www.bau-muenchen.com What: German construction industry.

Where: Birmingham, UK When: 6 Feb - 8 Feb 2011 Web: www.totallydiy.com What: Tools, metal-working and manufacturing technologies.

Where: Utrecht, Netherlands When: 7 Feb - 12 Feb 2011 Web: www.bouwbeurs.nl What: Building exhibition.

Where: Dublin, Ireland When: 20 Feb - 21 Feb 2011 Web: www.irishhardwarefair.com What: Tools, metal-working and manufacturing technologies.

Where: Cologne, Germany When: 9 Mar - 11 Mar 2011 Web: www.asiapacificsourcing.de What: A platform for asian companies in import and export.

Where: St Petersburg, Russia When: 15 Mar - 17 Mar 2011 Web: www.blechrussia.com What: Sheet metal working exhibition.

Where: Moscow, Russia When: 15 Mar - 17 Mar 2011 Web: www.iset-expo.ru What: Professional and handheld tools.

Where: Moscow, Russia When: 15 Mar - 17 Mar 2011 Web: www.fasttec.ru What: Russiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specialist fastener technology fair.

Where: Sao Paulo, Brazil When: 15 Mar - 19 Mar 2011 Web: www.feicon.com.br What: Construction industry fair.

Where: Bilbao, Spain When: 23 Mar - 26 Mar 2011 Web: www.ferroforma.eu What: Construction industry fair.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 66 November 2010

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exhibitions

EuroBLECH 2010 more international than ever More than ever, this year’s EuroBLECH was the focus of the global sheet metal working industry for its role as the world’s leading trade exhibition and trend barometer for this industry sector.

hat was the verdict of the organisers as EuroBLECH 2010 closed its doors in October after five successful exhibition days. “After a difficult time, the sheet metal working industry is on the up again. Large increases in business activities have been reported by many of our exhibiting companies, and the general atmosphere at our exhibition was very positive,” explains Nicola Hamann, exhibition director of EuroBLECH 2010, on behalf of the organisers Mack Brooks Exhibitions. In total, 61,300 trade visitors came to the 21st leading international technology exhibition for sheet metal working at the Hannover exhibition grounds in Germany. 1,455 exhibitors from 43 countries put a wide range of innovative solutions, cutting edge technology and an enormous amount of live machine demonstration on display. In the current economic climate, approaching new markets was the main aim for the exhibitors at EuroBLECH 2010, according to the first exhibition survey. “We are therefore delighted to be able to report that EuroBLECH 2010 was more international than ever. 46% of our exhibitors came from outside Germany; and we could again increase our traditionally high percentage of international visitors. 39% of this year’s visitors came from outside Germany compared to 35% last time,” says Nicola Hamann. The first exhibition survey data show that top visitor countries outside Germany were Switzerland, Italy, the Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, Poland and the United Kingdom; but also the Czech Republic and Russia were well represented. Visitor attendance

from Asia and the USA increased substantially since 2008. “The overall attendance at this year’s show is in line with what we expected. It was obvious that after such a difficult time for this industry sector, we could not match the figures of the record event in 2008. We see it as a big success for the sheet metal working industry and its leading trade show EuroBLECH to be able to announce results that are comparable to 2006,” says Nicola Hamann. The preliminary exhibition survey also shows that EuroBLECH 2010 had an above average increase in visitors with decision making capacity; almost every second visitor came to the show with the definite intention of buying. At this year’s EuroBLECH 99.9% of all visitors were trade visitors. EuroBLECH 2010 received excellent evaluations from visitors and exhibitors from inside and outside Germany. Participants were highly satisfied, particularly with the comprehensive range of products on offer and with the international flavour of the show. Some 75% of all exhibiting companies intend to exhibit again at the next show. EuroBLECH 2012 will take place from 23rd - 27th October 2012, in Hannover, Germany. Next year, Mack Brooks Exhibitions will again hold a series of sheet metal working exhibitions in selected target markets. BLECH Russia 2011 will take place from 15th - 17th March 2011 in St. Petersburg, BLECH India from 14th - 17th April 2011 in Mumbai, and the first BLECH Nordic will be held in Stockholm, from 4th - 7th October 2011.

Strong support continues for 2011 Totally Shows The industry continues to show strong support for the 2011 Totally Shows, which will run on 6th - 8th February, in Hall 11 at the NEC Birmingham, UK.

he latest signings include substantial stand bookings and a return for Everbuild Building Products and Tor Coatings, both long time supporters of the show. Other rebookings include AP Lifting Gear, Ciret, Exakt Precision Tools, Isaberg Rapid, M Marcus, Mirka Abrasives, Route 1 Group, Select Hardware, Sika UK, SMC Corporation, Spin Secure, Trendsure and Trimaco. There is also a return to the show for door furniture supplier Dale Hardware and DK Tools,

importer and distributor of Am-Tech Tools. These bookings mean the shows will be bigger than 2010. The Totally Shows sales director Paul Grinsell explains: “Our shift to Hall 11 for 2011 enables us to increase the size of the shows by a third. To date we’ve sold the equivalent of 85% of the 2010 shows, so we’re well on track to create a larger exhibition next February. A wider choice and variety of exhibitors will be great news for our visiting retailers and buyers.”

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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exhibitions

The innovation elite sign up for BATIMAT 2011 BATIMAT returns in 2011 with show organisers stating that it will once again be the event French and international companies involved in building simply must attend.

ATIMAT 2011 will run from 7th - 12th November at Paris Porte de Versailles and will provide a complete and relevant response to the environmental requirements dominating the building sector. As always, numerous innovations will be presented and during its six days a comprehensive array of tools will be available to the industry to help it discover the products that will be taking centre stage tomorrow. Over 2,500 exhibitors and nearly 400,000 visitors are expected in 2011 for an event occupying more than 200,000m² of exhibition space. As of 15th October, nearly 1,000 exhibitors had already booked, with 38% being from outside France. They include the return of such leaders as ArcelorMittal, Corus Building Systems, Sika, Bergerat-Monnoyeur, Somfy, who were absent from the 2009 show because of the difficult economic situation. “BATIMAT is, above all, an event where people meet each other and discuss developments. A new visual identity has been commissioned for the 2011 show in order to focus on the men and women who contribute so much to the progress of the construction sector. A new logo, a new campaign and a new, redesigned web site reflect the desire of the organiser to highlight these Batimen and Batiwomen, who are the real drivers of innovation.”

Successful debut for Industrial Trade Fair Moscow Deutsche Messe’s first exhibition in Russia, Industrial Trade Fair Moscow, ran from 28th September - 1st October at the All Russia Exhibition Center in Moscow and hosted more than 270 exhibiting companies from 25 countries.

r. Andreas Gruchow, Member of the Board at Deutsche Messe AG stated: “The launch has been a success. We have come to Russia at the right time with the right concept.” He added: “We are establishing a subsidiary in Moscow and will continue to expand our portfolio in Russia.” More than 5,000 visitors, primarily from Russia, attended the Industrial Trade Fair Moscow premiere to learn about the latest products, services and technologies in the areas of power transmission and control, materials handling and logistics, industrial automation, and surface technology. “Our focus is always on quality, and we have set a new benchmark for exhibition quality in Russia,” said Gruchow. “Exhibitors, visitors and trade associations confirm that Deutsche Messe has fulfilled its claim to offer the highest quality in the region.” Industrial Trade Fair Moscow accounted for 10,000 square meters of exhibition space and featured four trade fairs under one roof: CeMAT RUSSIA, Industrial Automation RUSSIA, MDA RUSSIA, and Surface RUSSIA. Deutsche Messe organises Industrial Trade Fair Moscow in cooperation with the ITE Group, a UK-based event organiser with offices in Moscow.

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exhibitions

MIDEST picks up after slow start This year MIDEST, the industrial subcontracting exhibition, celebrated its 40th anniversary and was once again situated in Hall 6 of the Paris-Nord Villepinte Exhibition Centre in Paris, France.

he exhibition, which took place from the 2nd - 5th November, is a key exhibition for French subcontracting with the industry accounting for 61% of the 1,710 exhibitors. This year saw an increase in French company participation to 1,040 exhibitors compared to 984 in 2009. This increase contributed to an overall increase in exhibition space and exhibitor numbers of 3% and 1.5% respectively. The number of foreign exhibitors fell to 670 compared to 701 in 2009. At the time of going to print the visitor numbers for the 2010 show were not available, but they will be reported in the next issue of Fastener + Fixing Magazine. Once again the exhibition hall had been categorised into different trade zones and villages including foundry, treatment of materials, shaping metals, plastics, forging, industrial fasteners (including a European fasteners village) and electronics. This year also saw the introduction of two new trade villages in the form of machining & special machines and rubber. In addition to the different trade zones and villages there was also a large section of the hall dedicated to national and regional pavilions, which included seventeen French region stands involving over 550 companies. There were also country pavilions for South Africa, China, Turkey, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Tunisia, Bulgaria and Turkey. The number of trade zones and villages, national pavilions, regional pavilions and joint venture stands does create a problem where sometimes fastener related companies are situated in areas other than the industrial fastener zone. An example of this is Bonioni SA, which was situated in the Rhône Alpes pavilion and Daltron Forge which was on the CBI pavilion. This means that if a visitor wants to make sure they do not miss relevant exhibitors they have to walk the entire hall, which is time consuming. The European fasteners village, featured in the industrial fastener zone, is now in its second year and was situated in the centre of the hall. The fastening section at this year show grew by 21% to approximately 60 exhibitors. However, the fastening section decreased by 44% in 2009 meaning the European fastener zone this year was still relatively small. Companies within the European fastener village included Profil France, Lameco, Smalley, Codipro, Marer, Borelly, Pinet Industrie,

Faster Srl, Beck Crespel and Vilux. Another company included in the European fastener village was Gardette Industrie which received a MIDEST award for ‘organisation’ due to its marketing efforts prior to the show. The MIDEST awards, now in their fifth year, are presented to exhibitors who exhibit subcontracting excellence. This year the awards were presented in five categories: innovation, outstanding implementation, international, organisation and design offices. Jean-Sébastein Welde, sales manager at Gardette Industrie explained how the company came to win an award. “We sent out over 800 invitations for MIDEST and made 400 phone calls prior to the show asking for customers to come and visit us. This commitment to pre-show marketing resulted in over 100 customers visiting our stand at the show.” He added: “This resulted in us having an excellent show, we are very happy with the number of customers that have visited our stand and we have received some very positive leads.” Another MIDEST award winner at the show was FTV in the category of ‘innovation’ due to its universal fastener. The universal fastener is a system based on a ball and socket joint that allows a quick and easy connection of elements in any geometry whatsoever. Fastener exhibitors at the show reported a very quiet opening couple of days. This could be explained by the French national bank holiday which happened on the first day of the show. According to exhibitors the visitor numbers did start to pick up Wednesday afternoon and by Thursday they were at a respectable level. Overall the majority of exhibitors said that they were happy with the quality of the visitors to their stand, even if it didn’t seem as busy as previous years. A positive sign for MIDEST is the increase in exhibitors in the European fasteners village. However, it is important that these numbers are built on next year if MIDEST is to convince fastener companies that it is an important and relevant show. The 41st edition of MIDEST, which will take place from 12th th 18 November 2011, will once again be held at the Paris-Nord Villepinte Exhibition Centre.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

EXHIBITIONS

Viva NIFS/West The 14th annual National Industrial Fastener Show/West took place on 8th - 10th November 2010 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Las Vegas, USA. For Will Lowry it was first time to experience the city and one of the biggest and most important fastener shows in the world.

verything about Las Vegas is larger than life - the hotels, the casinos, the food and quite a few of the people too. In the first twenty four hours, the challenge is not just to adjust to the time difference but also to the sheer scale of the place, the cacophony of sounds, the constant whirl of intense images. Monday came as a day of relative calm. Fortified with three good platefuls of breakfast - it really doesn’t take long to adapt to the Vegas culture - it was time to take in the wide range of seminars NIFS/West hosts during the set up day for exhibitors. The seminars are arranged by several different organisations. The Fastener Training Institute kindly allowed me to sit in on the ‘Fastener technology workshop’, which ran all day and was led by Bengt Blendulf, president and principal lecturer, EduPro US, Inc. The workshop covered the ‘practical aspects of working in the fastener industry’ and included sections dedicated to product standards and materials, heat treatment, thread types and selection criteria, vibration loosening and locking technologies and various other issues. Other seminars run by the Fastener Training Institute included ‘Print reading

for fastener industry professionals’ and ‘Solid modelling and computer aided design for fasteners and assembly components’. Especially interesting was ‘Looking to the future: A perspective from the fastener supply chain on 2011 and beyond’ a seminar presented by a National Fastener Distributors Association (NFDA) executive panel involving Jeff Liter, president of Elgin Fastener Group, Steven Fang, managing director of Fascon Corp, Mike Wrenn, CEO of Heads & Threads International and David Nelson, director of the Institute of Supply Management. The seminar looked at various aspects of the fastener supply chain and the possible influences on it in the future including the financial market, commodity prices, consumer demand, currency exchange and freight. Monday night, the Welcome Reception was a first taste of how important a networking event NIFS/West is for the North American fastener industry. All badge holders, exhibitors and visitors, had a great opportunity to greet each other and catch up before the show in an informal environment, whilst making the most of the complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres well, breakfast was hours earlier. The fastener show

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

opened on Tuesday. First impressions were certainly of scale, of the sheer range of exhibits, but also that in some ways it is more intimate than a typical

European show. Nearly 600 companies covered a space of 70,000 net square feet (6,500 square meters) which was a 13% increase on last years show. The show organisers reported a total of 4,096 fastener professionals registered for the show, with 53% being exhibitor personnel. The 1,926 industry registrants included 979 fastener distributors, 329 fastener manufacturers and 151 independent sales representatives. Companies with a large scale presence at the show included the big US master distributors - Brighton Best International Inc, Porteous Fastener, Heads & Threads International, Star Stainless Screw Co and XL Screw Corporation. This year also saw an increase in the number of companies exhibiting in the machining and tooling section, with the show organisers reporting almost 50 companies. The section was dominated by inspection and packing equipment companies such as Accuvision Technology Inc, Dunkley International Inc, InSpec 100, Delta Engineering, Advanced Poly-Packing

Precision Technology Supplies Ltd

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EXHIBITIONS Inc, Intools Inc, General Inspection LLC and Mectron Inspection Systems, all of which offered physical exhibits. Other leading names within the machining and tooling section included Nedschroef Herentals NV, National Machinery LLC and Weighpack WPI Services B.V. Those exhibitors with physical exhibits were certainly using their presence to maximum effect, constantly giving demonstrations that attracted a lot of visitor attention and allowed the exhibitors to really highlight the machine capabilities. Whilst the exhibitor numbers were up in what is obviously becoming a very important section for NIFS/West the area seemed less imposing than, perhaps, it should have due to the empty space at the top of the hall. This resulted in the aisles suddenly finishing and some companies looking a little isolated. A large Chinese presence with approximately 85 exhibitors dominated the first two aisles. There was also a similar number of Taiwanese exhibitors but spread around the hall. The international element of the show also included exhibitors from Belgium, Canada, India, Israel, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, Spain, Saudi Arabia, United Kingdom and Korea. The latter having a pavilion featuring approximately ten exhibitors.

Lee Procter, marketing co-ordinator at Lancaster Fastener The first morning of the show was very busy with some aisles impassable due to the number of visitors. The US style of exhibition booths, for the most part involving not a great deal more than simply a table and chairs, contributed to the effect. Visitors stand in the aisle whilst talking to exhibitors affecting the flow of the traffic. That probably works pretty well in some ways, because it was very noticeable how effective most of the exhibitors were in engaging passing visitors by asking open ended questions. Having previously only experienced

European exhibitions it seemed almost alien that the exhibitors would try to instigate conversation before a visitor had shown any interest, but you could see how effective it was in stopping the visitor and getting a conversation started. Throughout the first morning there was a constant hum of noise involving contacts being renewed, demonstrations being given and networks being developed. After lunch the visitor numbers did start to die down. Possibly the appeal of ‘hitting the strip’ becoming too much of a temptation or maybe it is that the real business gets done over lunch and off show. However, various exhibitors reported talking to visitors right up to closing of the show. Also incorporated for the first time was a seminar schedule which involved five seminars on the show floor in the ‘Fastener Learning Centre’. The seminars included ‘Understanding machine rebuilding’ by Jim Flanagan of Reed Machinery Inc, ‘Technical knowledge policies as a risk management tool’ by Carmen Vertullo of Simply Better Inc, ‘Understanding and dealing with the Asian marketplace’ by Rob Lucas of Fidelis Fasteners and ‘Using social media to build your business’ by Eric Dudas of FastenerClearingHouse.com. In ‘Understanding and dealing with the Asian marketplace’ Rob Lucas looked at the ‘Five Ws’ of a typical sourcing strategy involving What to buy, When to buy, Where to buy, Who to buy from, and hoW to buy. He also covered issues arising from market fluctuation, manufacturing issues and logistics. Eric Dudas of FastenerClearingHouse. com and co-host of Fully Threaded Radio talked about ‘Using social media to build your business.’ In the seminar he explained that when trying to understand the potential of social media companies should think of it as “social marketing” - with the opportunity to research and gather information, as well as improve search engine optimisation. The second day of the show, which closed at 1pm, was fairly quiet with a noticeably smaller number of visitors walking the aisles. However, this did give exhibitors the chance to get off their stand and walk the aisles themselves. From speaking to exhibitors the majority seemed happy with the show and the visitor levels, although some did comment on the drop off during the first day. One European company very happy with the show was Lancaster Fastener Co Ltd. Lee Procter, marketing co-ordinator at Lancaster had to travel for over 24 hours involving two connections to get to the show, but said it was well worth the effort. “Our aim was to come out here and to look for an agent in America.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

We arranged several meetings prior to the show and are very happy with the outcome; it has been a good show.” Also happy with the show was Rotor Clip Company which had decided to offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind

whilst walking the aisles by offering an aqua massage on the stand (pictured above). The massage involved a visitor lying down in the machine fully clothed and then having water jets massage the entire length of the body. Those visitors who did try it came out of the machine completely relaxed and also thankfully dry. Joe Cappello, director of marketing at Rotor Clip Company explained: “Rotor Clip rings are worry free and it is our company motto to take the worry out of buying. Therefore we offered visitors the opportunity to relax and unwind by having an aqua massage, with several taking up the offer.” With the show finished it was time to head back to the UK, this Vegas experience over. The impact of the show was similar to the impact of Vegas itself, the opening morning of the show seemed a bit like pandemonium with visitors everywhere and a wave of noise circulating the hall - a similar feeling to the first time you see the Vegas “Strip”. However, once accustomed to the show it was clear to see how important it is to the North American market. This is underlined this year by the increase in show size as well as a small increase in registered fastener professionals, a positive sign surely following the uncertain times that last year’s event was staged in. Another clear positive for the organisers was the increase in the machining and tooling section with the level of physical exhibits brining an extra dimension to the show. One exhibitor probably best summarised the importance of the whole event: “coming to the show gives us the opportunity to meet all our customers in one location.” The 2011 National Industrial Fastener Show & Conference is scheduled for 19th - 21st October 2011 at the Sands Expo, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.

exhibitions

Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2011 pre-registered visitors save money Industry professionals in fastener and fixing technology from around the world will meet again for Europe’s biggest event for this industry sector, Fastener Fair Stuttgart, from 22nd - 24th February 2011 in Stuttgart, Germany. “We are still experiencing a real booking boom,” says exhibition director Susanne Rauberger, on behalf of the organisers, Mack Brooks Exhibitions. “More than 600 exhibitors from 36 countries have already booked some 12,000m² of stand space. For the first time, the show covers three halls to meet the huge demand for stand space at Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2011. The show will occupy halls 4, 6 and 8 at the new Stuttgart Trade Fair Centre.” Visitors will be able to save money by pre-registering online. Pre-registration will be open from mid-November on www.fastenerfair.com and ticket prices will be 20 euros for those who pre-register and 30 euros for on-site registration.

Visitor profile

Europe’s leading trade show for the fastener and fixing industry attracts top industry professionals from all over the world and offers manufacturers and suppliers of fasteners and fixing technologies to meet with buyers, specifiers, distributors and industry experts.

Show profile

The show profile ranges from materials and semi-finished products via production equipment, surface technology and quality assurance to finished products in diverse materials and modern bonding processes. Storage, distribution and information services round off the exhibition profile. High-tech as well as conventional equipment and systems will be on display.

Exhibition venue

The modern, newly constructed Stuttgart Trade Fair Centre, where next year’s Fastener Fair will once again take place, is conveniently located directly next to Stuttgart’s international airport; only a few minutes walk away. With excellent transport connections, the exhibition venue is easily reachable by car, by plane or by train. The city of Stuttgart and its vicinity offer a great number of hotels to suit all budgets.

Further details

The detailed exhibition profile, important information about the event, an up-to-date exhibitor list as well as useful travel information can be found on the multilingual show website www.fastenerfair.com.

Visitors come from industry sectors such as:

• Construction • Electronic and electrical goods • Metal products • Energy and power generation • Marine • Sanitary ware and plumbing • Aerospace • HVAC / air conditioning / services • Automotive • Communication technology • Furniture manufacturing • General engineering - light / heavy • Installation

Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2011 at a glance: Event: Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2011 International exhibition for fastener and fixing technology 22nd - 24th February 2011

Dates and opening times: 09:00 - 17:00 Tuesday 22nd February 2011 rd Wednesday 23 February 2011 09:00 - 17:00 Thursday 24th February 2011 09:00 - 15:00

Venue: Neue Messe Stuttgart Messepiazza 1 70629 Stuttgart / Germany Halls 4, 6 and 8

Entrance fees: Pre-registered visitors Visitors registering on-site

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

20 euros 30 euros

International Exhibition for Fastener and Fixing Technology 2 2 – 24 1 F e b r u a r y 2 01 ar t Me s s e S t u tt g Ger ma n y

FASTENER FAIR STUTTGART

Be par t of Europe’s biggest trade show for the fastener and fixing industry!

Fas t ener s

Fixings

Manuf ac tur ing Technology

For information on how to book your st and please cont act: Mack Brooks Exhibitions Ltd Tel: +44 (0)1727 814400 or Email: s tu tt gar t@f as tf air.ne t

www.f as t ener f air.com Untitled-1 1

11/03/2010 16:38

exhibitions

Fastener Fair stuttgart Route to Fastener innovation One of the key visitor attractions of Fastener Fair Stuttgart has always been the opportunity to discover and evaluate what’s new in fastening technologies. In previous shows innovative products have been displayed on a special innovations stand.

or 2011 Fastener + Fixing Magazine is also innovating. As well as a comprehensive preview of new technologies in our January issue, we will be organising the Fastener Fair Stuttgart - Route to Fastener Innovation. For the first time, exhibitors entering their product will not only have the opportunity to be heralded as one of 2011’s Fastener Technology Innovators, but will also ensure that visitors are guided to their stand - to see the product, evaluate it, and above all be able to hear what the exhibitor has to say about it. Every entrant to the Route to Fastener Innovation will not only be previewed in the magazine, it will also be featured on a special leaflet given out to all visitors - to guide them to the stands featuring innovations. In addition, participating exhibitor stands will be provided with a special logo highlighting that your company is a Route to Fastener Innovation entrant. A panel of experienced industry judges will review all the entries during the show and will decide on the three most deserving in their view of the accolade of Fastener Technology Innovator 2011. On the final day of the show there will be a special presentation to the winners at the Fastener + Fixing Magazine stand in Hall 6. Exhibitors who are interested in entering the Fastener Fair Stuttgart - Route to Fastener Innovation need to make sure that their innovations meet the following criteria if they are to be accepted. 1. The product must have been introduced to the market for the first time within the last 12 months.

2. The product must demonstrate significant and identifiable technical design, material or performance differences from other products already on the market. 3. The product must provide tangible and identifiable advantages for the end user or consumer - for example in efficiency, productivity, safety, strength, durability, and cost-reduction. 4. The product may be an improvement or upgrade on an existing line but must clearly meet all three of the above conditions. 5. The exhibitor submitting an innovative product for the showcase will need to provide a short explanation about how their product meets the criteria, particularly items 2 and 3. 6. Entries must not infringe the intellectual property rights of any other company. If the innovation meets the above criteria then all the exhibitor needs to do is send a 250 word description, in particular highlighting why the product is innovative and how it delivers tangible and new benefits to fastener users, together with a high resolution digital image to editor@fastenerandfixing.com. Entries must be received by Monday 13th December 2010 if they are to be considered. The Route to Fastener Innovation is only open to exhibitors at Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2011. Inclusion in the preview and competition is solely at the discretion of Fastener + Fixing Magazine and the panel of judges’ decision will be final.

Below is a selection of award winning innovations from previous Fastener Fair Stuttgart exhibitions:

e.U.R.o tec gmbh

E.U.R.O Tec GmbH has previously won two innovation awards, it came 2nd in 2007 with its IdeeFix, a hidden connector which offers easy application, and went one better in 2009 by coming 1st with its EiSYS.

E.U.R.O. Tec makes it EiSYS Innovation is always close to the heart of E.U.R.O. Tec GmbH, and the Hagen-based company has featured regularly in the Fastener Fair New Product Showcase. E.U.R.O. Tec says that its contender for this year’s title is the easiest method to use in facade assembly. The company explains that all the user has to do is screw the EiSYS through substrate and insulation material into the wall. The EiSYS includes a ring marker on the plug to ensure insertion to the correct depth, as well as a threaded sleeve for adjustment to correspond with the wall. The system can be adapted to cladding (for example timber cladding or fibreboards). Each fixing point consists of two fasteners placed in a V-shape, following the timber frame principle. E.U.R.O. Tec offers six fastener lengths corresponding to the most popular thicknesses of the insulation material. Assistance for structural calculation is also available from E.U.R.O. Tec. “The EiSYS screws are easy to handle and can be installed with the simplest of tools, which helps cut costs by reducing assembly times.”

Fastener Fair Stuttgart 7-8 Oct 2009, Hall 4 Stand C1

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

exhibitions

tite-Fix LtD

Tite-Fix Ltd has managed to win an innovation award at the last three Fastener Fair Stuttgart exhibitions. The first award was in 2005 when Tite-Fix won second prize for its Screw-Tite® Universal. In 2007 Tite-Fix picked up the first prize award for its Tongue-Tite® screw, and in 2009 it won second prize for its Adjust-Tite® Screw. Michael Wilkinson, managing director at Tite-Fix Ltd, explains what affect winning the innovation awards had on the product and company.

“

The innovation showcase is the ideal vehicle to get products in front of professionals that trawl the aisles for opportunities. Also being a prize-winner several times over is not lost on our customers who utilise the fact through endorsements. That is why we will be at Fastener Fair Stuttgart next February entering the Route to Innovation. It will be what our customers expect and we will be hoping to maintain our reputation and hopefully win another award to grease the route to market and help drive success through sales.

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ive years have passed since the RIV509 won an award at the Innovation Showcase at Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2005. Rivit explains that the award gave it the optimism and trust to work on developing more and more tool ranges, so that today the Rivit program for tools and fasteners can be considered one of the most complete in the world. “We suggest you visit our website where you could find all the information regarding the Rivit fasteners & tools program. At Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2011 we will once again present a new product in the Route to Fastener Innovation, as it is always the starting point for news in the fastener world.”

FeRoDoM s.R.o

erodom s.r.o managed to win an innovation award at Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2009 for its IstLock innovation. Jozef Dominik, managing director of Ferodom s.r.o explained that the key to the IstLock lies in its effective utilisation of assembling strength for protection by means of ﬂexible angled segment of a plastic material or soft metal. This segment is forced to decrease its diameter during assembly, developing adherence pressure on the screw thread and creating a friction lock between screw and nut.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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A s s o C i At i o n s

eFDA celebrates tenth anniversary On 27th September representatives from each of the national associations that make up the European Fastener Distributor Association convened in Lyon to mark the tenth anniversary of its foundation. It was a time for reﬂection and forward planning.

oday EFDA is recognised as the ‘umbrella’ organisation representing the pan-European and global interests of its members: British Association of Fastener Distributors (BAFD) in the United Kingdom; Fachverband des SchraubenGrosshandels (FDS) in Germany; Spécialistes Français en Eléments de Fixation (PRISMEFIX) in France; and Unione Distributori Italiani Bulloneria (UDIB) in Italy. The organisation has, in spite of the disparate interests, languages and geography of its members succeeded in becoming a lean but cohesive force in the European fastener industry. It is a presence that stems from a meeting of representatives of those national associations in Lyon in September 2000 and from the sustained commitment of successive presidents and its secretariat. In 2000 an association of associations was born to represent common interests at a European and global level; providing the focal point for the exchange of noncompetitive information and to act as the mechanism for networking between fastener distributors throughout Europe. Formally EFDA came into being in Munich, in February of the following year, where the national associations met to sign the statutes of the association. It was Dr. Florian Seidl who proposed the name of EFDA and it was also he who was elected as its first president - demonstrating then, as now, an extraordinary passion and commitment to the European industry and, in particular, to the cause of free trade conditions. EFDA defined its core missions as to provide a European platform that enabled the national associations to meet with all parties linked to the industry. It sought to collectively respond to essential challenges for associated members as well as to stimulate and promote free exchange of experience between fastener distributor associations worldwide. It also aimed to cooperate to enhance recognition for the distribution industry wherever and whenever possible. It remains as then a non-

profit organisation that does not pursue commercial goals. EFDA’s first task was to convince its manufacturing counterpart, the European Industrial Fastener Institute, that plans for a European Fastener Quality Act, similar to that enacted in the United States, would represent an additional administrative burden for the industry without delivering real benefits or added value for fastener customers. In 2003 EFDA staged the first of its

had focused strongly on establishing dialogue and links between the national associations. From this foundation Mr Berrang turned to the establishment of EFDA’s global presence, particularly working to develop links with the National Association of Fastener Distributors in the USA, and with the Taiwan Fastener Traders Association. 2004 also saw the first test of EFDA’s capability to react to the investigation of

A picture of the founding members. Top (l-r): Bernd Stapf, Florian Seidl (FDS), Bernard Maurin (PRISMEFIX), Alan Stennett (BAFD), Francesco Venturini (UDIB), Raphael Herbinet (Lawyer). Bottom (l-r): Massimo Guzzo (UDIB), Heinz Storch (BAFD), Christine Delambre (PRISMEFIX). triennial conferences in Munich combining technical and business presentations with the opportunity for each member association to outline its constitution, operation and priorities. The conference provided a groundbreaking opportunity for the individual members of the national associations to meet, network and explore areas of common ground and concern. Later in the same year, Bernd Stapf - long experienced in the European fastener industry - applied Swiss precision and multilingualism to the role of secretary of EFDA, a position he continues to fulfil. In 2004 Bernard Berrang succeeded Florian Seidl. During his presidency Dr. Seidl

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

anti-dumping measures on imports of stainless steel fasteners. An EFDA task force was able to influence the European Commission to substantially amend the final regulation, which came into force in 2005, ameliorating its effect on fastener customers throughout Europe. In June 2006 EFDA demonstrated the growing strength of its global connections at a lively conference in Stratford-upon-Avon. Speakers included Joel Roseman, then vice-president of the NFDA and William Liao, then president of TFTA. Bernard Berrang emphatically stated EFDA’s position in relationship to attempts to restrict fastener imports into

the European Union, saying: “Out of the responsibility to our customers and to our own businesses, and as passionate European citizens, we will not support protection or any kind of limitation in free trading”. It marked the beginning of a determined resistance to the initiation of anti-dumping proceedings against the import of fasteners.

From April 2008 until January 2009 Steve Auld held the presidency in a period dominated by EFDA’s defence against the instigation of anti-dumping tariffs on fastener imports from the People’s Republic of China. Leading that defence was Geoff Hopwood who, when Steve Auld was obliged to step down, took on the role of EFDA president. In January 2009 stringent tariffs were applied to carbon steel fastener imports from China. For EFDA the decision was “unfair and politically influenced”. In particular the Association remains convinced that the tariffs, the severity of which shocked distributors and manufacturers alike, were based on an unrealistic and highly artificial calculation, over which - as the Malaysian circumvention investigation begins it continues to berate the European Commission. The anti-dumping decision did not dampen EFDA’s third distribution conference in Stresa, Italy. Together with

“ E FDA’s commitment to fair but free trade remains as strong today as when the founders first met in Lyon.” EFDA continued to strengthen its global links with reciprocal attendances to NFDA and TFTA events and Bernard Berrang’s term of office was marked by the enhanced international presence of the Association. EFDA’s participation at the Fastener Fair Stuttgart, in 2007 and later in 2009, underlined that presence and provided a contact point for members of the national associations attending the show.

the unparalleled and largely unanticipated impact of the global downturn, it did though serve to highlight the crucial importance of the organisation’s role in a radically and rapidly changing market place. In his opening speech Geoff Hopwood spoke of “challenging times indeed and increased risk but these will also create opportunity for the strong to prosper. There may well be a new world order - it is up to us to decide where we will all fit in.” As delegates returned to Lyon in September 2010 Geoff Hopwood was able to reflect the results of a survey of the national associations, which emphatically confirmed the importance of EFDA’s role in representing and linking the European fastener distribution industry. “EFDA has experienced setbacks but it is clear that it is doing the right things for this industry,” says Hopwood. “There is room for improvement and some national association members still do not feel the affinity with their counterparts across Europe that we would like to see. The challenge is in defining how we do more within the resources our member associations are able to provide. One thing is clear, EFDA’s commitment to fair but free trade remains as strong today as when the founders first met in Lyon.”

insight

A galactic celebration As Galaxy fasteners celebrates a decade in business, sales director Tom Murphy reﬂects on how the company has transformed over the years to secure success and a special place in key markets such as the structural engineering and the agricultural farm building market.

010 heralds the 10th anniversary of Galaxy fasteners. Over the past decade we have instigated major developments, which have seen the company evolve from our origins as a woodscrew and self-tapping screw supplier to the distribution trade, to a company which offers a comprehensive portfolio of fastener and fixings solutions for more specialised applications. It hasn’t always been an easy journey, but standing by our core values of providing exemplary customer service, an unbeatable product offering and industry experience, we have learnt that it is possible to achieve even the toughest goals.

Early learnings The bar was set quite early for Galaxy after we achieved sales approaching £1million within our first year of trading. Keen to carry on this momentum, we decided to recruit a small but extremely effective external sales team in 2001, which we hoped would bolster our already impressive roster. The team - Dave Pound, Danny Megson, and I, offered over 50 years experience in the fastener market. We were a formidable group! Alongside our renewed team policy, we ensured that our range was extended to include general bolting, nuts and washers. Success built, year on year, with sales exceeding the £5 million mark by 2008. This rapid growth confirmed the value of opting for an experienced sales team and so we utilised the same policy in the sales office, with the addition of Will Flitcroft and Ciaran O’ Reilly as internal account managers. We ensure our customers receive regular contact from individual account managers, all with a minimum of five years experience. Impersonal call centres do not form part of the Galaxy offering, as we believe each customer deserves a uniquely personal experience.

A unique offer Our customers are paramount and influence every decision we make. Because of this, we strive to listen to and collaborate with our customers to enable us to grow with them. This process has resulted in Galaxy being the only UK market leading company within the structural engineering and farm building sector which offers a full package under one roof, saving distributor customers from needing to use three or four suppliers in order to fulfil their complete requirements. The complete product range is available from stock, covering application at the initial fabrication stage with the original draftsman’s list, right through to the fully finished cladded structure. If that wasn’t enough, we guarantee next day delivery, direct to site and on customer’s own paperwork, with exact quantities and full test certification. In response to customer requests, we also supply products in specific diameter colour-coded bags and labels for ease of identification. We also guarantee peace of mind to our customers by head marking our products at the factory, ensuring both traceability and quality. Luckily, Galaxy’s loyal customer base has always made it clear that they share our view, that although price is of the utmost importance, quality of product must never be compromised.

Challenges It hasn’t all been smooth sailing however. Like many other business we faced a tough challenge during the credit crunch and by the end of 2008 it was quite clear that we were going to have to take a step back and reassess the business in order to battle through 2009. The key difference was that, while many industry sectors attempted to batten down the hatches, Galaxy

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

The Galaxy team pictured opposite, from left to right: Leanne Wilkes, David Pound, Danny Megson, Liz Solomon, Ciaran O’Reilly, Tom Murphy, Will Flitcroft, Kirsty Jones and Martyn Baddams was already checking into potential new growth areas. When the EU introduced unprecedented anti-dumping duties in February 2009 against fasteners imported from China, it was the biggest case of ‘back to the drawing board’ that Galaxy has ever encountered. We were massively reliant on the relationships built up with our Chinese partners and we were tasked with finding a succession of new partners in Malaysia, Taiwan and the Indian sub continent. Our rapid response to this challenging time proved to our customers that we could still provide them with the next day delivery that was so essential and, ultimately, it has made Galaxy stronger than ever.

Constantly evolving To tackle the challenges of the future, we are continuing to evolve and constantly assess our offering to the market. From working closely with our customers we know that there is constant need for new products and because of this we have successfully implemented a product expansion plan, widening the number of countries we source from. Over recent years, we have also continued to expand the customer base with distributors specifically allied to the structural engineering and agricultural farm building market. 2010 has seen the introduction of a new range of fixings and CE approved assembled bolting products, as well as our accreditation as an official Beam Clamp wholesaler.

The vast range of galvanised products in the Galaxy portfolio also further enhances our specialist offer and includes bolts specifically used in motorway and car park barrier applications, as well as a range of structural galvanised bolting which is directly related to the energy and high gantry sector. The decision to invest in new products has certainly paid off. In fact, 2010 has seen a return to pre credit crunch levels of profit and turnover. This growth has predominantly come from listening to the customers needs and working closely with them to ensure operational excellence. So, whilst accepting that the UK fastener market remains both fragile and volatile, there are clear indicators of sustained growth for the future and we hope that 2011 brings even bigger and better things for Galaxy and its customers.

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Beldray Park, Mount Pleasant, Bilston, West Midlands, WV14 7NH, UK Tel +44 (0) 1902 499299 Fax +44 (0) 1902 405123 www.galaxy-screws.com

insight

First and always a fastener company Founded 35 years ago in Helsinki, Ferrometal is still known by many for its expertise in the high grade stainless steel fasteners from which its name stems. These days that is to understand only a small part of a business, still a dedicated fastener specialist but possessed of an infinitely more extensive range of competences. Phil Matten visited Nurmijärvi to get the full Ferrometal story from managing director, Mika Rantanen.

t was a great pleasure, it must be said, to visit Finland for the first time when the temperature was actually positive albeit little more than four degrees. The welcome from Ferrometal, though, was substantially warmer and extremely informative. Mika Rantanen came to Ferrometal some seven years ago but has imbued himself with the company’s background as thoroughly as he is committed to its continued growth and development. It was Finland’s once dominant paper and wood pulp industry that demanded acid resistant stainless steel in all its processing facilities and presented the opportunity for Ferrometal to start in 1976 in Helsinki. By the mid 1980s Ferrometal had relocated, its customer base had expanded, and its range extended from A2 and A4 stainless steel to a widening range of construction fasteners. In 1992 the company launched Delta finished fasteners to the Finnish market. “It was much too early,” says Mika Rantanen. “A lot of work was done to market the technology to engineers but Finland did not have the core automotive industry demanding this level of corrosion resistance at that time. Today Delta is very successful for Mika Rantanen, us, primarily in markets like tractors and snowmobiles managing director that have taken their of Ferrometal performance requirements from automotive.” In 1994 Ferrometal developed the first 2-bin system for Finnish industry, a service competence in which it can now justifiably claim to be an innovative leader. In 1995 the company moved to its current site, close to the Helsinki-Tampere highway at Nurmijärvi. In subsequent years offices and warehouses have undergone a series of expansions. Through the late 1990s and into the 2000s business was stable, with turnover between ten and twelve million euros, in a company employing around 30 people. Growth, though, is a fundamental expectation for all companies in the Würth Group, which acquired Ferrometal in 1989. The acquisition had been focused. “The Group wanted to buy a company with strong fastener knowledge and business in Finland,” explains Mika Rantanen. “Ferrometal is most definitely a fastener company; it was 35 years ago, it is today and I can say it will be for the future also.” Rantanen joined to drive growth and achieved the results. By 2007 the company’s sales exceeded 20 million euros: in 2008 it peaked above 25 million euros before, as with fastener companies everywhere, the end of October 2008 abruptly signalled a new world. That said, Ferrometal’s performance in 2010 is set to at least match 2007. “The recovery has been quicker than I expected,”

acknowledges Mika Rantanen. “However, we consciously did not match our cost reductions to the fall in sales. Even at the beginning of 2009 we knew we had to think about how we would perform tomorrow. Now tomorrow is here we are benefiting from that decision and, in fact, are already recruiting more sales people.” Around three-quarters of Ferrometal’s business comes from Finland. 60% of customers are mid and large scale mechanical assembly operations. “The small scale shops are not really our business,” says Mika Rantanen. “Our service concepts require the higher volumes to work effectively.” As a result Ferrometal also offers a comprehensive product program through regional distributors and retailers. Around 13% of sales remain in the specialist stainless steel sector. Fixings products for both concrete and steel applications now account for approaching a

“ Ferrometal is most definitely a fastener company; it was 35 years ago, it is today and I can say it will be for the future also.” third of sales. Customer specific parts represent a further 20%. The remainder covers an extensive range of plain, zinc plated and hot dip galvanised fasteners, as well as chain, wire and other accessories. The customer segments, and their distinctive requirements, are as diverse as the product ranges. Ferrometal services industrial OEMs that require high service level with predefined parts, often specific to the one customer, delivered to the production line using advanced logistics solutions. Alongside, sometimes part of the same customer, are the more project driven technology requirements of a development or specialist engineering operation, demanding not just very specific products and solutions but engineering and design support. Ferrometal rarely services the general construction site direct, supporting and developing this market instead through regional distributors that can offer the intensive on-the-ground service required. The exception is infrastructure projects, particularly tunnelling and bridge work, where the critical components involved demand a more direct relationship with the customer. Distribution customers are also remarkably varied. Ferrometal supplies independent, primarily business-to-business

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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insight distributors across Finland, offering a broad and varied product range and fulfilling prompt delivery requirements. It is also contracted to supply nationwide retail chains with a demanding systematic point of sale presentation. “You have to recognise how these segments are different,” says Mika Rantanen in arguably something of an understatement.

- from repacking loose fasteners into bins, both Ferrometal’s own design and customers’ KLTs, through top-up orders for the fix master program, to pallet quantities of large diameter bolt, washer, nut sets. To speak only about the Finnish market is, however, to neglect a very important market dimension for Ferrometal. “The Baltic states are also our home market,” says Mika Rantanen emphatically. “We have sales offices in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania and a long trading history with distributors and customers in these markets.” Supply is from Ferrometal’s warehouse in Finland. “We did have a small warehouse in Tallinn but we closed it because it was far more efficient to supply from our full stock range here in Nurmijärvi.” Trucks from Finland

“ T he Baltic states are also our home market.” “You have to develop a different service proposition and then support it with different logistics and customer service set ups.” “In fact, we do not sell fasteners,” says Mika Rantanen, “we sell concepts and systems, and deliver fasteners. Our message to the customer is always about systems, often to do with logistics but also shop concepts, training and other support”. Ferrometal’s product proposition is founded on two core competences. The first, not surprising given the group to which it belongs, is skilled sourcing of products. “World class sourcing is fundamental to our business,” says Mika Rantanen. “Not just so that we are competitive, although that of course is crucial. More important is that we know, always, what the product is and who made it. We have a lot of customers where it is completely unacceptable to supply fasteners if we do not know the sources.” The second element is a series of key brand relationships. For the concrete construction sector the most important is with Finland’s fixings manufacturer, Sormat, for whom Ferrometal is a nationwide distributor. For façade construction one of Ferrometal’s oldest relationships is with Japanese self-drilling technologists Pias-Piasta™. For steel construction, where quality assurance is an absolute, Ferrometal has strong relationships with Piener in Germany, Dokka in Norway and, most recently, Tension Control Bolts in the UK. Ferrometal’s three warehouses are geared to cope effectively with both the diversity of its ranges and the variations in demand from its customers. Two warehouses are dedicated to picking orders, the third to goods receiving and bulk storage. The latter also houses an automatic packing line primarily for Ferrometal’s own fix master range of fasteners and fixing products for both retailers and professional distribution. With 35,000 articles, across all ranges now held in stock, space is at a premium and smaller items are already stored in a bank of four Kardex vertical storage and retrieval systems. Order picking is equally varied

take the ferry to Tallinn, which is a one and a half hour crossing. “We can ship from our warehouse here today and it will be distributed throughout Estonia tomorrow as well as into the main cities in Latvia and Lithuania,” explains Mika Rantanen. “Our customer is not the construction site or industry needing something today so this is a very acceptable service level.” In fact most of the business is through distributor and retailers to whom Ferrometal offers, through this service, its exceptional range of assured quality products for both construction and industrial markets. Ferrometal’s relationship with the Russian market, specifically the St. Petersburg area, is also longstanding and well developed. “Compared with other European suppliers,” says Mika Rantanen, “we gain two or three days on the delivery times to Russia. We are particularly strong in St. Petersburg. We have been there for 15 years and the circle of important players that do import business are all our customers.” The logistics advantage, reinforced by an established record as a reliable supplier - plus, of course, Ferrometal’s comprehensive product program - create a combination that Mika Rantanen is keen to leverage. “We want to continue to strengthen our position with distributors and retailers in the Baltic States, and we want to build on our strengths in St. Petersburg to expand our relationships with similar businesses throughout Russia.” 35,000 quality-assured line items, from a supplier that has demonstrated a remarkable capability to service a diverse range of industrial and construction oriented customers, represents a persuasive argument. Considering 4 degrees Celsius in November to be “quite mild” probably won’t do any harm in the meeting of minds either.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

insight

What a performance Performance Fasteners Ltd, based in West Bromwich, UK, is coming towards the end of its inaugural year as a fastener manufacturer. Will Lowry visited the company to find out how the experience and reputation of its owners has helped the company far exceed its own expectations.

liff Roberts and Sally Matthews are joint directors at Performance Fasteners and have worked in the fastener trade for more than 25 years. In January 2010 they decided to set out on their own and use their experience and reputation to start up a fastener manufacturer that could combine quality and service with affordability. “Looking back it has been a very busy and successful first year,” comments Cliff. “We set ourselves a plan for the first 12 months, defining where we wanted to be at certain stages and what goals we wanted to achieve at the end of the period.

However, with a lot of hard work we managed to achieve all the aims we had set within the first six months.” Due to its quick success Performance was able to set itself new goals such as achieving ISO 9001:2008 accreditation which it achieved recently. “To gain our ISO accreditation within 9 months from a standing start has been amazing,” says Cliff. “Before the ISO accreditation we were receiving a selection of orders from certain customers, but with the accreditation we have managed to open the door a little further and are now receiving even more orders.” Throughout all the hard work during the company’s first year, both Cliff and Sally say that it was the support they received from within the industry which took them by surprise. “It was extremely humbling,” states Sally. “Since we started up the suppliers and the customers have supported us as people and, due to the staff, machinery and plant we have at Performance, we have been able to repay this trust with good service and quality products.” Performance has a wide selection of

machines including Autosprints and other CNC machinery. These are supported by manual capstans, millers and drillers that are used for secondary operations. The company’s location in the heart of the Midlands also means that it is in close proximity to other parts of the industry such as platers, patchers, finishers and laboratories, all of which Performance can work with to complete orders. “As people we have been known for socket screws,” explains Cliff, “but with the machinery we have we can now offer a wider range of products including six lobe screws, hex flange nuts, hex head screws, wheel bolts, security screws, studs, washers, flange screws, bushes, plugs and nib head bolts, as well as continuing in socket screws as our main core supply.” To add to its wide range of products, Performance can also offer a variety of different materials including stainless steel, copper, bronze, aluminium and brass. “We have found recently that we are receiving more orders for products in exotic materials,” reports Sally. “Which means we are now having to stock specialised materials such as duplex, titanium and nickel alloys.” In addition to having the machinery and materials to produce a wide range of products, Cliff and Sally are keen to point out that they also have experienced machinery staff, which help make the production process more efficient and are key to ensuring quality products and top service. “The staff we have in the factory are fully committed to the company and the team as a whole is working together to help make the whole process more efficient,” explains Sally. “There is a very positive atmosphere within the company and we will go out of our way to make sure orders are delivered on time. If a machine breaks down we will call somebody out immediately and if an order misses a carrier we will send it out on another carrier as soon as possible.” “The big word for us as a company is

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

service,” adds Cliff. “Obviously customers buy products on cost, but it takes more than this to attract customers, and our ability to go that extra step and do all we can to fulfil the order and make sure customers are fully satisfied is what helps us stand out.” Whilst both Sally and Cliff are happy with how Performance has progressed, they are all too aware that as a company you are only as good as your last order. “We have had a very good first 10 months but it is vital that we ensure that we do not grow too quickly,” explains Sally. “The most important thing is that the quality of products and service remains high, we don’t want to be in a situation where we are letting people down because we have taken on too much work.” The contacts and reputation that Cliff and Sally had gained previously within the industry were undoubtedly a key factor when getting Performance up and running, but it is this commitment to ‘not letting the customer down’ and focus on service and quality products which is at the heart of Performance Fasteners and explains the success it has achieved in a relatively short space of time. However, even with what they have managed to achieve within the first ten months, Cliff and Sally are not resting on their laurels, they are looking to the future and how the company can develop. “When we set up the company we aimed to be innovative and progressive, and this is still our aim. However, now we want to take it forward and are looking towards the next level. We need to continue to improve our service and grow, but at a rate which will still allow us to offer our customers what they have already come to expect, top service, good products and the ability to deliver what we promise.”

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c o n s t r u ct i o n f i x i n g s

Shining metal in the desert Held by plastic The first Ferrari theme park in the world is located in Abu Dhabi, on the island of Yas. The red-silver aluminium roof, which is over 200,000 square meters in size was developed, manufactured and installed by Germany company Interfalz, and is secured in place with the aid of mounting brackets made of BASF’s plastic Ultramid®.

he roof of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi consists of individual aluminium panels that were formed directly from roll stock on-site, seamed during installation and fastened together with the aid of mounting brackets made of the very stiff Ultramid A3WG10, a glass fibre reinforced polyamide 66 from BASF. The patented ribbed, ‘thermoholder’ plastic brackets replace their metal predecessors, and BASF says help optimise the sliding friction behaviour at the head of the bracket and improve the insulating characteristics of the roof considerably, since they prevent the formation of heat bridges or - more important in hot Abu Dhabi cold bridges that compromise the building’s insulation. The two-part plastic fastener system that Interfalz developed

in conjunction with BASF also incorporates an additional function as it secures the aluminium panels to the underlying insulating layer at a defined spacing. This is accomplished with the aid of an adapter plate welded to the ‘thermoholder’ mounting bracket. It engages the head of an anchor that is also made of Ultramid: After the self-tapping Ultramid anchor is pressed into the insulating layer and screwed to the substructure, the mounting bracket is screwed to the head of the anchor. “On-site installation requires that the anchor head designed by BASF be very tough, rigid and unbreakable when stepped on. The entire system must be rugged and easy to install by workers at construction sites around the world,” explains Heyung Meyer, managing director of Interfalz.

Great Stuff Pro gets a high five Geocel highlights that its Great Stuff Pro Multi-Purpose fire-rated foam, designed for filling gaps or cracks in fire-rated applications, now boasts a certified five-hour fire rating.

he fire-rated Great Stuff Pro foam is the only one available in the UK to be tested to a five hour rating in accordance with BS 476 Part 20: 1987. Great Stuff Pro is available in 750ml straw and gun application packs, with the straw foam pack having the added benefit of being Acoustic rated according to W=db59 foam sound reduction index. Geocel points out that Great Stuff Pro MultiPurpose fire rated foam is a B1 rated one-part polyurethane foam which is coloured pink to make it easy to identify as a fire-rated product. It expands rapidly and cures to a semi-rigid cellular structure that can be cut, carved or sawn to virtually any shape. It is easy and safe to use, adheres to almost any substrate, can be painted or plastered over once cured and to give effective insulation against damp and drafts. It is also completely water-resistant when cured.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

INDEX launches MAGNER INDEX has launched MAGNER, an anchor for direct fixings to concrete. The MAGNER features either a countersunk or hexagonal head and is coated in Silver Ruspert which provides the anchor with a high resistance to corrosion.

ndex highlights that MAGNER’s triple bevel thread makes installation easier and faster on all types of base materials without the necessity to use a nail. Also due to the triple bevel thread, as well a special tip with toothed edges, assembly is improved. Together with Magner, Index recently launched GRAVITEX, an innovative and patented gravity toggle anchor, optimal for fixings of light materials to false ceilings or vaults. The GRAVITEX’s design makes it possible to unscrew both the hook and the stud without loss of the nut, since it is embedded in the head tilt.

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Fasteners technology Furniture fittings DIY Systems Dreika®-applications technology Direkt-C-parts management

The «art » of connecting – Dresselhaus. Joseph Dresselhaus GmbH & Co. KG Zeppelinstraße 13 • D-32051 Herford Telefon: +49 52 21 9 32-0 • Fax: +49 52 21 9 32-4 00 • E-Mail: info@dresselhaus.de • www.dresselhaus.de

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insulation clip cracks the code Simpson Strong Tie has announced the launch of its new Insulation Clip, in response to requirements issued by UK’s Code for Sustainable Homes for insulated buildings to control heat loss and, in turn, carbon emissions.

n acknowledgement of this, the timber frame industry has adopted the use of solid insulation panels within buildings to increase their thermal performance and sustainability. Simpson’s new Insulation Clip allows the timber frame manufacturer to effectively fit these insulation panels in the correct position, whilst holding them in place during transport to the site. The product can be used on all standard 38mm and 45mm wide timber studs and can be fitted with speed prongs, which allow installation without the use of nails. An additional product feature is that the Insulation Clip ‘snaps’ in half along a predetermined break line to form two single clips for use around door and window openings, or cripple studs. Simpson’s head of engineered timber division, Jon Head, said: “The Code for Sustainable Homes is becoming more difficult to achieve as each year passes; however, timber frame buildings offer one of the simplest solutions to meet those requirements. The new Insulation Clip is the latest in a line of products we have introduced into our range, which enable us to continue helping our customers build better, safer and more efficient homes for the future.”

Erico top of the pyramid ERICO has expanded its highly popular CADDY® PYRAMID line to include three new series of rooftop supports: the CADDY® PYRAMID EZ series, the CADDY® PYRAMID ST series and the CADDY® PYRAMID RL series.

he CADDY® PYRAMID EZ series adjustable-height tool-free rooftop pipe supports are manufactured from a durable UV-stabilised EPDM rubber, the same material as many roof membranes. The series features a simple snap-on installation, which does not require the use of tools or fasteners. The supports easily allow for height adjustment from 45mm to 102mm, 127mm to 178mm, or 102mm to 152mm. The CADDY® PYRAMID EZ series can also accommodate up to DN50 pipe. The CADDY® PYRAMID ST series strut-based thermoplastic supports utilise an engineered thermoplastic base with a UV stabiliser. They have a high load rating - up to 6,670N - and provide uniform load distribution to help protect the roof membrane. The CADDY® PYRAMID ST series is available as a

fixed strut support and an adjustable-height strut support, which allows elevation change up to 432mm off the roof surface with up to 254mm or 406mm of usable strut length. Finally the CADDY® PYRAMID RL series roller-based thermoplastic supports feature a roller capability to allow for longitudinal movement of pipe, such as from thermal expansion or contraction. The supports can accommodate elevation changes on the roof and are designed to keep conduit away from higher ambient temperature, as required by code in many areas. The CADDY® PYRAMID RL series is available as a fixed roller support and an adjustable-height roller support, which can accommodate elevation changes of up to 406mm off the roof with up to DN150 pipe.

Making installation easy Universal Innovative Products GmbH & Co KG (UIP), based in Germany, says that its Ubolt® can be installed in three easy steps.

he Ubolt® is a self-cutting undercut anchor with a female internal thread support. UIP explains that installation is so easy that there is no need for torque wrench or special installation tool, all a user has to do is drill the correct sized hole, insert the Ubolt®, hammer and then remove the setting tool. UIP highlights that an undercut is guaranteed with the Ubolt®, even in shallow embedment of only 30mm, so there is no need to check with a torque wrench. Also the pre-drilled hole can exceed the length of the Ubolt®. The Ubolt® is available in stainless steel uip®-80 and A2-70 (304Q) and tension and shear load data is available from UIP on request.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

Hole in one!

The Everbuild Wood Filler range has a bright new look with easy to follow colour coded packaging and a product to suit every application. The tried and tested trade formulas have been improved using the latest resin technology so that they dry quicker, sand down easier and take a stain better than any other filler on the market. The Everbuild Wood Filler range â&#x20AC;&#x201C; bright on the outside, and bright on the inside! Everbuild Building Products Ltd Site 41, Knowsthorpe Way, Cross Green Industrial Estate Leeds LS9 0SW Telephone: 0113 240 3456 Fax: 0113 240 0024 Email: info@everbuild.co.uk Website: www.everbuild.co.uk

REPAIRS WOOD PERMANENTLY

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getting the eye in the sky Bonningtons, a chartered building surveying practice established in 1990, has announced the launch of its new industry specific service, the Building and Construction Observation Service (BCOS), providing aerial inspection and observation.

COS is tailored to the needs of the building and construction industry and offers a rapidly deployed and safe inspection service, without the need for hydraulic platforms or to erect scaffolding equipment and having staff scaling tall structures. It provides customers access to high definition digital video and photography equipment. BCOS currently utilises a Microdrone MD4-200 quadcopter to provide instant, high definition video footage of any building or construction project, allowing customers to review and monitor

progress either in real-time, as a movie play back or frame by frame. Precise images can be extracted and viewed as printed photographs or enlarged on a computer screen. Alternatively, high resolution stills cameras can be used. Bonningtons will introduce the larger Microdrone MD4-1000 in late November/early December 2010. This equipment operates with longer flight duration and increased payload with consequently a wider range of photographic and other equipment such as air quality monitoring, and higher wind speeds.

forgefix introduces DryLine Pro ForgeFix, a UK distributor of fixings, fastenings and associated products, has added another innovative product to its range in the form of DryLine Pro - a plasterboard fixing which thanks to its intelligent design and effectiveness in fixing heavyweight items to drylined walls won the award for ‘Best New Product’ at the 2010 Totally DIY Show.

ike Smith, sales and marketing director at ForgeFix explains: “Plasterboard drylining has become a popular choice with those building or refurbishing properties because of its speed and efficiency of installation. However, for those of us who have to go in and fix heavyweight items to them afterwards these walls do present a number of specific issues. DryLine Pro tackles these challenges head on - and that’s why we’ve added it to our range. It’s the perfect solution for fixing flatscreen TVs, kitchen units, curtain rails, boilers and other heavier items to dot and dab walls.” Capable of supporting up to 200kg, DryLine Pro owes its effectiveness to a unique combination of features. This includes

an extra long plug which can be inserted into the blockwork with the help of the drill bit provided. A specially designed head on the fixing then firmly grips this supporting sleeve causing the main pulling load to be taken by the wall itself with the only force exerted on the plasterboard being a slight downward thrust. ForgeFix is offering customers the option of a number of different pack formats for DryLine Pro. This includes an eight fixing blister pack and a 50 fixing trade pack both supplied with correctly sized screws and two free drill bits (a 7.5mm HSS bit for soft walls and an 8mm masonry bit for harder walls). To cater for tradesmen who have already bought these kits, ForgeFix will also offer a 100 fixing bulk pack.

Knockout range of fasteners and fixings RapierStar, a distributor of fastener and fixings, has teamed up with European Boxing Champion Brian Magee, supporting him in the latest defence of his European super-middleweight belt in Dublin. The 35-year-old from Belfast dominated his Armenian opponent, Roman Aramian, from the start in an impressive display.

ith Rapierstar’s policy of providing superior fixings, huge stock levels and a total customer focus, “Brian epitomises the positive attitude that our company strives to maintain,” stated managing director David Furness. “He is dedicated, professionally prepared and sets himself new and challenging targets”. Boxing is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK and Magee now wants a world title fight against current super-middleweight champion Dimitri Sartison of Germany. “I’m number one in the division and hopefully now I’ve put myself in a position to get it,” he said. “Brian is not only a great fighter but a down to Earth guy, he recently played for a RapierStar golf team which was in aid of a locally based cancer charity”, added Rapierstar’s Ireland sales manager Paul McAuley. With Brian in their corner, Rapierstar are fighting fit and going from strength to strength, with their knockout range of fasteners and fixings.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

c o n s t r u ct i o n f i x i n g s

Excalibur rings the changes in scaffolding Excalibur Screwbolts says it is set to revolutionise the scaffolding industry with the launch of its new Scaffold Ringbolt, which, due to its unique design, will prove to be a huge breakthrough in improving scaffolding stability and efficiency. A consignment has already been ordered for use on a project at the London 2012 Olympic Village.

he 120mm x 52mm ringbolt, which is available immediately, utilises the unique twin-helix technology pioneered by Excalibur, which has been a feature of a range of screwbolt products used worldwide for the past two decades across many construction industry sectors. Excalibur technical manager Jim Clement said: “Our newest product, the Scaffold Ringbolt, has been designed especially for the scaffolding industry. This is just what the scaffolders has been waiting for because it brings many advantages over scaffolding methods currently used.“ The Excalibur Scaffold Ringbolt’s shank length is designed to

engage 100mm into a wall, leaving sufficient space between the wall and a scaffold tube for the thickness of a clip. Excalibur highlights that a major benefit of its tough boron steel scaffold ringbolt lies in the fact that it is a one-piece anchor which fixes directly into the toughest substrate, such as concrete, without the need for additional fixings, plugs or resins so leaves nothing in the wall. The anchor can be fully removed when the scaffolding is struck, meaning that the hole can simply be plugged and, if future scaffolding is envisaged, the plug can be removed without damaging the thread left in the hole meaning a new fixing can be fitted, without the necessity of further drilling.

JCP provides unique anchoring solution JCP Construction Products, a specialist supplier of construction fixings to distributors, is offering customers innovative anchoring solutions which it says are twice the strength of conventional concrete.

ockite is an internal grade product for anchoring and patching, while Kwixset is an exterior grade anchoring product that is also waterproof. Both products are made of the same components, a hydraulic type cement compound, and produce an equally impressive result that is both fast setting and easy to use, expanding to the space required and gripping to it permanently. When they are mixed with water the pourable consistency of the products flow and seeps into place, with an initial set time of just 15 minutes. After just one hour the materials will develop compression strengths of 31Mpa or 4,500psi and will double to 8,000psi after seven days that’s double the standard resistance of conventional concrete. The products also offer versatility and, as well as anchoring, can patch holes and cracks in a range of surfaces, making a safer and more aesthetic environment. They are also self levelling, meaning any job can be done quickly and simply in the knowledge that the products do all of the hard work on their own. Nick Beardon of JCP explains: “Rockite and Kwixset are established and popular products that are ideal for anchoring a range of materials. There is minimal wastage too, as you can mix small, measured amounts and the product can set in low temperatures, meaning it can be used in almost all conditions.” Rockite is available in 1lb, 5lb, and 50lb cartons, as well as 10lb and 50lb pails, while Kwixset is sold in 25lb and 50lb pails.

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Dynamic solution to vibration applications Variable loads can occur in many applications, especially when fastening equipment in a manufacturing plant. Cyclic loads and vibrations can lead to fatigue of the fastening system or of the base material itself. This is why MKT GmbH & Co. KG has introduced the MKT Injection System VMZ dynamic for just such applications.

he fatigue bearing capacity of the VMZ dynamic has been determined by intensive testing and confirmed by the Deutsches Intitut für Bautechnik in General Technical Approval Z-21.3-1906. MKT explains that compared to other anchor systems on the market, the MKT Injection System VMZ dynamic allows for a significantly more economic anchor design due to higher axial and combined loads being permitted, static and vibratory loading being considered separately and increased loading when there are limited load reversals. MKT highlights that in many cases using the MKT Injection System VMZ dynamic can help reduce the number of anchors needed in an application which can help save money and make installation more efficient. The MKT Injection System VMZ dynamic is available in galvanised steel in sizes 100 M12 and 125 M16 for 2mm and 50mm fixture thicknesses and in 170 M20 for 50mm fixture thicknesses. Thinner fixture thicknesses are possible by increasing the anchorage depth. The 125 M16 size is also available in highly- corrosion resistant steel for outdoor applications and inside tunnels.

pgb-Europe presents brand new retail concept The latest development at pgb-Europe nv is a completely new DIY concept. Approximately 1,200 articles will be available in a brand new packaging, including fasteners (brand name pgb-fasteners) and anchor systems (brand name SMART).

he SMART anchors range includes heavy duty anchors such as through bolts, expansion bolts and anchor shields, as well as light and medium duty anchors such as frame anchors and certain plug/screw combinations. The emphasis was put on the packaging design. For the retailer, this resulted in a fresh presentation of the wall display and more profit per meter. For the end-user, it resulted in a clear colour-guiding system and detailed product information on the packaging helping them to choose the right product. “Innovation is one of our key guiding principles along with launching new products, exploring new markets, and advanced e-commerce applications.”

Roberlo’s vinyl resin receives CE marking Polyfixer VSF, a vinyl based styrene free resin from Roberlo has recently obtained the CE marking for “anchoring of reinforcing steel bars”.

ccording to this new approval, vinyl-ester styrene free resin from Roberlo has two CE marks for the main chemical fixing applications; fixing of threaded rods into concrete (ETA 07/0195), and fixing rebars in concrete structures. AENOR Approval Body has issued the EC Certificate of Conformity which attests Polyfixer VSF as a “product and system for the protection and repair of concrete structures anchoring of reinforcing steel bar” according to the European Norm EN 1504-6. Repairing reinforced concrete structures by introducing new rebars, or just anchoring these new rebars to solve a mistake during the engineering calculation of the structure, are two common situations in the construction market where Polyfixer VSF can give a practical solution. “This new approval confirms Polyfixer VSF as a high performance product usable in a wide range of applications and able to give constructive solutions to the market professionals. CEN, EOTA, SOCOTEC and other approvals have already been achieved in order to certify the quality of the products that we offer to our customers.”

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

Oct10_chemfix1.pdf

VORPA offers range of ETA approved anchors Below VORPA Srl describes the products for which it has obtained European Technical Approvals from prestigious European Institutes in accordance with ETAG guidelines.

TA 07/0031 option 7 was issued by STC Servizio Tecnico Centrale - Rome, Italy, and is related to through steel anchor VS-P which is characterised by high loadbearing capacity and is specially suitable for anchoring machinery, heavy duty timber and metal constructions. The VS-P anchor can be used in non-cracked concrete and natural stone. ETA 08/0138 option 7 was issued by ITB Instytut Techniki Budowlanej - Warzawa - Poland for CV.VSF PRO CE which is a vinylester chemical anchor. CV.VSF PRO CE is available in 300ml, 345ml and 400ml cartridges and is suitable for numerous applications, including high load applications on concrete, natural stone and solid brick, as well as being ideal for reinforcing bars. ETA 09/0175 option 7 was issued by DIBt Deutches Institut für Bautechnik - Berlin - Germany and relates to the heavy duty anchor TOP which is manufactured in the range of M6, M8, M10 and M12, in galvanised steel and A4 stainless steel, and is suitable for concrete C20/C25 to C50/C60. The final ETA accreditation is ETA 10/0125 option 7 which was issued by ETA-Denmark A/S and concerns steel anchor VE.CE7. The VE.CE7 features an A2 stainless steel clip characterised by excellent load bearing capacity in non-cracked concrete and suitable for medium and heavy duty applications. VORPA’s range includes several sizes from M8 to M16 and even extra long anchors M12 and M16 whose lengths are available from 200mm up to 400mm. C

CMY

Efficient and secure anchorage K

With the W-TM Heavy-Duty Anchor, Würth says it has included another high-performance anchor for the flexible fastening of mainly resting as well as quasi-resting loads such as consoles, cable routes and pipes in its product range.

ürth explains that the W-TM Heavy-Duty Anchor will replace the W-SAi Heavy-Duty Anchor offering valuable efficiency potential in the anchorage of medium and heavy loads through its easy and timesaving mounting process. The W-TM Heavy-Duty Anchor is made from galvanised steel and can, thus, be used without any problems in all dry interior rooms. At the moment, the anchor is available in the four versions Type A (anchor sleeve), Type S (anchor sleeve with hexagon screw), Type H (anchor sleeve with screw hook) and Type O (anchor sleeve with eyelet screw) in the thread sizes M6 to M12. Types A and S are approved (ETA10/0255) for individual attachment in uncracked concrete from class C20/25 to C50/60 (option 7). What is more, the concrete class < C20/25, pressure-resistant natural stone as well as solid stone masonry, also constitutes suitable anchorage substrates for all four anchor types (without approval). “The Würth W-TM Heavy-Duty Anchor is a torque-controlled expanding anchor. It works by a cone advancing into the anchor’s expansion sleeve when the recommended torque is applied. This results in the sleeve expanding in such a way that the anchor is positively attached to the sides of the drill hole. This functional principle allows for comparably low minimum edge distances and thus more flexible positioning of the anchors in the substrate.”

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Nestinox continues to develop Nestinox, a European distributor of stainless steel fasteners, has added a stainless steel hardwood screw to its range.

he stainless steel hardwood screw is made of A2 stainless steel and features self-countersinking nibs under a small raised countersunk head. The hardwood screw also include a 2x double thread for disposal of sawdust and is suitable for a TTAP® 25 drive. Nestinox has also recently developed a completely new WOOD brochure. The WOOD brochure includes all the stainless steel fasteners that Nestinox offers that can be used in various timber constructions such as hardwood screws, head wood screws, ‘Tellerkop’ screws, chipboard screws, hexagon screws and washers. “To request this brochure or for obtaining more information on our stainless steel fasteners please contact our sales department or visit or website.”

Recent European Technical Approvals for fixings Here is a list of recent ETAs granted in the last three months to fixing products, following the agreement with the European Organisation for Technical Approvals.

t is important to note that existing ETAs may be amended or withdrawn so this list should not be considered definitive. For further information and a full list of valid ETAs you should visit EOTA’s website, www.eota.be.

ETA NUMBER

TRADE NAME

HOLDER

ETAG 001 Metal Anchors for use in Concrete (all parts) ETA - 09/0401

Injection System X-TITE RESILOC E for rebar connection

X_CALIBUR INTERNATIONAL

ETA - 10/0102

TECFI DGE02

Tecfi S.p.A.

ETA - 10/0103

TECFI DGE02 for rebar connections

Tecfi S.p.A.

ETA - 10/0125

VE.CE7 ANCHOR

VORPA S.R.L.

ETA - 10/0164

VIFIX IV

Batifix

ETA - 10/0169

Upat Anchor Bolt IMC

fischerwerke GmbH & Co. KG

ETA - 10/0170

Upat Anchor Bolt MAX

fischerwerke GmbH & Co. KG

ETA - 10/0172

Upat drop-in anchor USA

fischerwerke GmbH & Co. KG

ETA - 10/0177

EMBRAFIX EDS

Desarrollos Espciales de Sistemas de Anclake S.A

ETA - 10/0230

POWERS THROUGHBOLT PTB-ETA1-PRO

Powers Fasteners Europe B.V

ETA - 10/0255

Würth Heavy-duty Anchor W-TM

Adolf Würth GmbH & Co KG

ETA - 10/0256

SCELL-IT Injectionsystem X-PRO for rebar connection

Scell-it

ETA - 10/0257

Sikla drop-in anchor AN

Sikla Holding Ges.m.b.H

ETA - 10/0258

Sikla drop-in anchor AN

Sikla Holding Ges.m.b.H.

ETA - 10/0259

Sikla Bolt anchor AN BZ plus

Sikla Holding Ges.m.b.H.

ETA - 10/0260

Sikla Injection System VMZ

Sikla Holding Ges.m.b.H.

ETA - 10/0261

Sikla Injection System VMU for concrete

Sikla Holding Ges.m.b.H.

ETA - 10/0262

SCELL-IT Injection System X-PRO for concrete

Scell-it

ETA - 10/0265

VESF

SogivaSwiss

ETA - 10/0266

SCELL-IT Injection system PUREPRO for concrete

Scell-it

ETA - 10/0274

SCELL-IT SA+

Scell-it

ETA - 10/0275

SCELL-IT SA+

Scell-it

ETA - 10/0276

SpaTec

RAMSET

ETA - 10/0277

EMBRAFIX EDB,EDL and EDB A4

Desa

ETA - 10/0278

EMBRAFIX EDB, EDL and EDB A4

Desa

ETA - 10/0294

SFA

Apolo MEA Befestigungssysteme GmbH

ETA - 10/0309

Injection system SPIT EPCON C8

Société SPIT

ETA - 10/0332

Powers >Injection system V12 for rebar connection

Powers Fasteners Australasia Pty Ltd

ETA - 10/0345

DESA-FIX FTB

Desa

ETA - 10/0346

DESA-FIX A4

Desa

ETA - 10/0347

DESA-FIX FTBC

Desa

ETA - 10/0357

OLIVE TQ-20S

OLIVE QUIMICA, Grupo Olivé

ETAG 014 Plastic Anchors for ETICS ETA - 09/0372

MKaM-LI3AL dia 10 and MKaM-L13AL dia 10 Mt

MKaM sp. z o.o.

ETA - 10/0163

CLOU (P)ISO I.N.G. and CLOU (M) ISO I.N.G.

I.N.G. Fixations

ETA - 10/0221

Plastic anchor JANSA PTP PK 10/50-La

Ing. Jan SKOVAJSA - JANSA

ETA - 10/0318

OUTIFIX ISOL

Société OUTIFIX

ETAG 020 plastic Anchors (all parts) ETA - 10/0348

SPIT Facade Anchor KT10 and KT14

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

ITW Befestigungssystems GmbH

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Accreditation key to JCP JCP Construction Products has a number of products which have a European Technical Approval. The range includes heavy duty anchors, throughbolts and resin systems.

echnical manager, Brian Deluce, emphasises that the ability to supply product meeting the rigorous testing levels required to obtain an ETA is an important area to the JCP business. JCP heavy duty anchors have an Option 1 Approval for use in cracked concrete (ETA 07/0331). They are designed to support substantial loads where safety and security of the fixture is of prime importance. With bolt head, stud and nut and countersunk versions these anchors are ideal for a large number of safety critical applications either of a permanent or temporary nature. With a high tensile bolt or stud, depth embedment mark, collapse feature and deep embedment for high loads the JCP heavy duty anchors can provide for a wide range of applications. The JCP Approved Throughbolt (ETA 08/0169) has an approval for uncracked concrete. As a through fixing it provides a secure through anchorage into dense concrete for medium duty fixings. The cold formed taper and close fitting clip provide a secure fixing with minimum movement when the anchor is set to the correct torque. The use of the correct torque ensures a positive clamping force in excess of the recommended tensile force, which means the anchor will not move. It also ensures the material of the anchor is not overstressed. The distinctive red ring around the thread provides visible evidence that the correct embedment is used and the long threads allow for stand off

applications where required. The stainless steel version (ETA 07/0332) is grade A4-70 for use in external or wet environments where resistance to corrosion is required. To complete the range the J-Fix Spin-In Capsule resin anchor system (ETA 07/0329) and the Vinylester Injection Resin (ETA 08/0085) offer a selection of resin anchors to suit most requirements. The resin systems are complemented with a range of studs which include zinc plated and hot dipped galvanised grade 5.8 studs, A2 and A4 stainless steel studs and grade 8.8 high tensile studs. All the studs have an embedment depth mark and hexagon driver and come complete with a setting tool for installation with the Spin In capsules. These products can easily be incorporated into a design by the use of the JCP Anchor Calculation programme which can be downloaded from the JCP website.

Trio of approvals for SCELL-IT SCELL-IT has announced that it recently obtained three new European Approvals to complete its chemical mortar range.

he products that received the ETA accreditation were the SCELL-IT Injection system X-PRO for rebar connection (ETA - 10/0256), SCELL-IT Injection system X-PRO for concrete (ETA - 10/0262) and SCELL-IT Injection system PUREPRO for concrete (ETA - 10/0266). SCELL-IT explains that the new approvals will enable it to offer distributors a rational and simple range of chemical mortar systems which comply with all market demands from January 2011. The product range will be launched simultaneously to SCELL-IT’s three main markets - in France, the company HQ, SCELL-IT UK, based in Cannock, and SCELL-IT Polska, based in Krakow. The European Technical Approvals follows SCELL-IT opening a new logistic centre in Lille-Lesquin, France, earlier this year. “The new logistic centre has a capacity of over 10,000 pallet spaces, and will enable us to move from a domestic French company to a major European supplier.”

Homologation vital to quality assurance In order to improve and certify the quality of its products and to ensure uncompromising quality for its customers, Index continues to extend its range of homologated products.

ome Index products have European Technical Approvals with the emphasis on heavy duty anchors. The SL-VT to Option 8; MTH and MTH A4 to Option 7, and CA-QU chemical anchor capsule to Option 7. Index says it also offers “completely safe mortar installations, regardless of the base material used, guaranteed by firstly, our EOTA homologation for our epoxy and vinylester mortars, suitable for any installations of yellow-zinc-plated and stainless-steel threaded screws and threaded rods on concrete; and secondly, our homologation by SOCOTEC, a French institute of remarkable prestige in the fixing field, for our polyester, suitable for installations on hollow and solid bricks”. The Index range of wood connectors is also CE homologated - specifically the SCAS asymmetric brackets, the SCED, SCEI and SCRF reinforced brackets, and the SOUO U-supports.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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c o n s t r u ct i o n f i x i n g s

cfA conference takes two For September 2010 the Construction Fixings Association elected to stage its conference in dual locations, one hosted by fischer fixings UK Ltd in Oxfordshire and one by Hilti GB Ltd in Manchester. The reward was a virtual doubling of attendance compared with 2009.

FA general manager, Mark Salmon, was extremely pleased with the new format, designed to make attendance easier for members north and south of the UK. “As well as the increase in overall attendance it was gratifying to see so many attending for the second or third time,” he said. In addition to delegates from the six full members of the CFA, all fixings manufacturers with a significant market presence in the UK, the conferences welcomed representatives from the CFA’s eighteen Approved Distributors and twenty-three Approved Testers (seven companies are members in both categories). A significant proportion of the conference days were dedicated to what Mark Salmon described as “guidance through the minefields” facing fixings suppliers now and in the future. George Waterhouse of Hilti GB Ltd presented details on three topics: The implementation of the Eurocodes, which effectively requires the use of anchors with ETAs. The Construction Product Regulation which will eventually replace the Construction Products Directive and the forthcoming BSI Code of Practice for the selection and installation of construction fixings which, explains Mark Salmon, “will remind everyone from specifiers and distributors to contractors and installers what they need to do to ensure fixings perform as required”. John Muir of Hilti gave George’s presentation at the Northern venue. For the Approved Testers Mark Salmon outlined the extension of accreditation for those Competent Testers who had attended training for General Purpose testing to also cover anchors for scaffolding and seasonal decorations. Mark also introduced the planned BSI Code to the Approved Testers and, in a technical presentation, outlined the distinction between load relaxation and resin anchor failure whose characteristics are sometimes confused.

Practical demonstrations featured at both events, focusing on the importance of proper hole cleaning for the installation of resin anchors. At the Southern venue the fixings were set by Mirka Valovicova, technical manager, fischer fixings UK Ltd. and tested by Mark Salmon. In Manchester Chris Priestely and Richard Laybourn of Hilti GB’s technical department took on similar roles. Not for the first time, Mark Salmon, emphasised the clear message of the demonstrations: “We must all encourage users to clean holes properly – so sell those brushes!”

Mirka Valovicova presented a chilling set of slides showing the results of some poor installation practices. By popular demand and with the permission of fischer fixings UK Ltd the CFA will be putting the photos on its website www.fixingscfa.co.uk The presentation provided an Mirka Valovicova, appropriate prelude technical manager, for Bryan Carroll, technical director fischer fixings UK Ltd of Masonry Fixings, Dublin, whose personal insights from a fatal construction site accident resulting from poor installation practice, convinced him to become a significant personal driver of the recently launched Irish Health and Safety Authority Code of Practice for the Design and Installation of Anchors. An unquestionable highlight of the 2009 CFA conference, Bryan once again made a forceful presentation, this time detailing just how carefully the subject of changing fixings specifications must be approached if suppliers are to protect their liabilities. “This message was all the more effective coming as it did, not from a manufacturer but from a distributor,” commented Mark Salmon. The CFA’s primary goal is “Ensuring Best Fixings Practice”. Its full members are: fischer fixings UK Ltd, Hilti GB Ltd, 2K Polymer Systems Ltd, Simpson StrongTie Liebig, Rawl Fixings, and ITW Spit Fixings. In recent years it Bryan Carroll, has extended its technical director influence in the UK fixings supply of Masonry Fixings market through developing associate membership categories for Approved Distributors and Approved Testers. The CFA has an authoritative website at www.fixingscfa.co.uk which hosts a wealth of information and articles covering the spectrum of fixings installation practice and providing, in particular, a range of Guidance Notes targeted at improving the selection and safe installation of fixings.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

c AtA Lo g u E r A c K

November 2010

germany

Fastener + Fixing Magazine provides a unique reference guide that offers the industry a fast and easy way to source both current and upcoming product Catalogues. Use this convenient service to call, fax or email the companies to request a copy of their latest Catalogue and up to date product information.

Adolf Pühl GmbH & CO KG Pühl Stanztechnik is one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of stampings for mechanical fastenings, especially washers. We produce to national standards (ASTM, BS, DIN, NFE, SS, etc.) as well as to drawings or samples - powered by professional in-house tooling. Wholesalers and end-users throughout Europe are satisfied by our excellent service, quality and valuable prices.

tel: +49 2391 8107 0 email: info@puehl.de

tel: +49 6631 77640 0 email: info@adunox.com

B+M Breitbach + Müller GmbH

Albert Pasvahl offers you its experience and expertise in special connection elements and accessories resulting from over 70 years in business. In the course of this time, we have become a leading stockist of special standard screws.

We are one of the leading manufacturers and exporters of connecting fittings for several industry branches. Our large warehouses located in Germany enable us to supply customers around the world with large quantities of various articles flexibly and at short notice. Ask for our free catalogue now. fax: +49 27 5359 5650 www.bum.de

BÜLTE GmbH Kunststofferzeugnisse

INDUSTRIAL CONTROL ELEMENTS

INDUSTRIE-BEDIENELEMENTE

Bäcker GmbH

ker GmbH & Co. KG

ück | Industriegebiet Jägersgrund I -0 | Fax: +49 (0) 27 53 / 59 50-44 /-45 /-46 echnik.com | www.baecker-kunststofftechnik.com

BÄCKER Plastics Technology has been manufacturing handle and clamp elements for more than 30 years.

Bülte is an ISO accredited supplier of plastic fasteners and protection products, with more than 20,000 articles.

Under the brand name of “PlacoGrip“, indexing bolts, clamp levers and handle elements are manufactured to a high standard of quality and in perfect designs. The very favorable price/ performance ratio is of special interest to trade partners in other European countries.

tel: +49 2753 5950 0 www.baecker-kunststofftechnik.com

adunoX is a young company but has over 20 years experience in fastening technology. adunoX is an experienced manufacturer of collated screws. We offer, from our stock in Alsfeld (Germany), a wide range of high quality auto-feed-screwdriver, collated screws, drywall screws, deck screws, stainless multi-purpose screws and more for professional craftsmen. Collation of special types is no problem.

Albert Pasvahl GmbH & CO

For example: Direct from stock DIN 609/610, DIN 561/564 DIN 478/479/480 DIN 464/653/466/467 DIN 906/908/910

tel: +49 40 532 852 0 www.pasvahl.de

adunoX GmbH

In addition to a full standard range in natural NYLON (PA), Bülte also provides products in non standard materials - POM, PP, PVDF, PE…

email: bulte@bulte.com www.bulte.com

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

Manufactured in Germany, Bülte’s fasteners have proven themselves over a period of years to be reliable, high quality products.

c AtA Lo g u E r A c K .Disc springs – theory and practice.

The product of load and

Dörken

World renowned designer and manufacturer of standard (according to Din 2093 & 6796) and custom: disc springs, disc spring stacks, wave springs, slotted disc springs, flat springs and precision parts in a variety of materials from spring steel to titanium for over 30 industries including the nuclear and aerospace.

Dörken MKS-Systeme has been developing micro layer corrosion protection systems for over 30 years. Under the brand name DELTA-MKS®, Dörken produces and configures extremely effective surface protection mainly for the automotive industry. Our worldwide approved products like DELTA-PROTEKT® are without any heavy metals, such as chrome (VI).

0803

deflection

Christian Bauer GmbH & CO KG

tel: +49 7182 12 0 email: info@christianbauer.com

tel: +49 (0) 2330 63243 www.doerken-mks.com

Dresselhaus GmbH & Co. KG

E.U.R.O. Tec GmbH

We are one of the leading European stockists of all types of industrial fasteners. 50,000 pallet locations of stock, along with over 700 employees make Dresselhaus your perfect partner for sourcing standard and specialised parts.

email: info@e-u-r-o-tec.de www.e-u-r-o-tec.de

tel: +49 52 21 9 32 0 www.dresselhaus.de

Verbindungselemente Engel GmbH

Fastbolt GmbH New catalogue 2010 with enlarged stock range.

We are a successful wholesaler of connecting parts with years of experience in supplying the industry and dealers throughout Europe.

tel: +49 751 407 0 www.schrauben-engel.de

email: info@felo.com www.felo.com

Our high rack warehouse in Weingarten (Germany), which houses more than 8,000 pallets, accommodates everything our customers need for their day-to-day business.

E.u.r.o.Tec - The specialist for fastening technology - offers professional fasteners made of hardened steel, coated steel, stainless A2/A4, hardened stainless for wood constructions, hardwood deckings, glue wood, roofings, facades, as well as solar fasteners. All approved and in certified quality. The main goal is to create fasteners offering the professional enduser a most possible benefit. For detailed information of the most recent developments, please, refer to the E.u.r.o.Tec homepage.

email: info@fastbolt.com www.fastbolt.com

Fastbolt is a leading wholesaler of industrial fasteners to European distributors only. Apart from a highly specialised product range ex stock Fastbolt offers individual supply solutions such as customised packing, direct container imports, pre-import quality inspections and a revolutionary online availability check and ordering system: FBonline.

Felo - Werkzeugfabrik GmbH

GEFRA GmbH

Felo is one of the German innovation trailblazers in screwdriver tools. With 132 years of experience the company’s expansive portfolio is based on more than 260 applications for industrial property rights. Felo tools are exported to 40 countries where the company is renowned for quality, innovation, flexibility, service and costefficiency.

The world leading inspection systems made by GEFRA for accurate measurements, crack detection, recess inspection and 360° thread inspection provide zero-defect inspection capability. Manufactures can inspect products at speeds up to 1000 parts per minute. All OPTISORT systems and feeding systems are designed for gentle hanling of parts during the inspection process. The OPTISORT line is completed with various models of packaging systems.

Inspection systems for fasteners

email: info@gefragmbh.de www.gefragmbh.de

www.fastenerandfixing.com

c AtA Lo g u E r A c K Güldner Sonderschrauben GmbH & Co. KG

Goebel GmbH Approved quality in our own labour guarantees the strong growth.

Güldner manufacture special purpose screws and fasteners, special bolts and nuts and CNC lathe-turned parts. As a TÜV certified manufacturer they process heat resistant, stainless steel materials, brass and ASTM materials based on customer specifications and drawings. Attestation in accordance with EN 10204 - 3.1 or 3.2 can be supplied.

All rivets are tested according ISO 14589. The high delivery rate based on a well organized central warehouse in Germany. Join and create the future with us. www.blindniete.org tel: +49 211 24 5000 0

tel: +49 7932 9155 11 www.gueldner.com

Helmut Steinfels GmbH & Co KG

Herbert Knoke GmbH Knoke Company is serving the market since 1964 with good quality products. Our main products are drywall- and chipboard-screws, which we are selling under our trademark PROFIX®, as well as high tensile bolts.

Your dealer for used machinery for the wire & the fastener industry from Germany. Speciality: Wafios, Hilgeland, P&E, National and E.W. Menn. Wire nail presses, wire weaving looms, chain link fence machines, screw production machines, headers, chain production machines, crimping machines, mesh welder.

Our latest innovation is the PROFIX® chipboard-screw with SKT® coating.

email: info@herbert-knoke.de www.herbert-knoke.de

tel: +49 40 522 60 13 www.steinfels.net

Hermann Lohmann HERMANN LOHMANN stands for high quality wire bending and threading technology since 1905. As a manufacturer of hooks and many other wire products we guarantee a fast availability of a broad standard range. Furthermore we provide many other articles made to customer’s individual specifications.

www.schrauben.de

KPO Schrauben und Normteile GmbH

Kompetenz in Verbindungstechnik • Automobil Hersteller • Automobil Zulieferer • Komponenten Industrie

KPO Schrauben und Normteile GmbH Köbbingser Mühle 10 58640 Iserlohn Tel.: 0 23 71 - 9 46 6 Fax :0 23 71 - 9 46 300 kpo@schrauben.de

Lederer GmbH

Lindapter GmbH

Lederer is one of Europe’s most specialised suppliers for stainless steel fasteners. It has more than 20,000 different articles in stock, primarily normed and standardized parts (ref. DIN, ISO and others). Industrial consumers, as well as retailers and wholesalers, all over the world rely on Lederer’s almost 40 years of experience.

Lindapter provides an exclusive product range of independently approved steelwork connection systems, including steel, cavity, decking, support and floor fixings. Experienced engineers offer unrivalled support, including a free design service and bespoke new product development. Lindapter solutions are utilised in multiple markets such as plant engineering, petro-chemical, offshore, materials handling and structural & civil engineering.

Verbindungs- und Klemmsysteme

seit 1934

fax: +49 2333 8309 18 www.lederer-online.com

KPO-Schrauben und Normteile GmbH Specialist for automotive fasteners, welding screws, nuts, stampings, rivet systems, Cold formed parts (also with secondary machining process), Zero defect sorting, all coatings. Full documentation, PPAP level 3 or VDA. Supply to OEM`s, Tier 1 and 2 suppliers and to related industries. Certified to VDA 6-2, DIN/EN/ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. Contact: Klaus Uhlmann

tel: +49 2371 946 512 www.schrauben.de

tel: +49 2339 1216 0 www.hermann-lohmann.de

We are offering delivery from stock or long term delivery!

tel: +49 0201 214 778 www.lindapter.com

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

C ATA LO G U E R A C K

Tel: +49 6374 91160 www.mkt-duebel.de

Tel.: +49 89 143381 0 www.precote.com

MKT - Metall Kunststoff Technik GmbH

Nosta GmbH

Are you interested in High Standard Fasteners? Do you know the new MKT Product Range? MKT manufactures European (ETA) approved anchors like Wedge Anchors, Highload Anchors, Drop-in Anchors and Chemical Fastening Systems. Products are tested and approved in Europe and many other countries.Technical support including design software is available.

Worldwide Competence in Quality and Technology We are a manufacturer of: - assembly technique = t-nuts and screws for aluminium profiles - milled parts, laser parts - turned parts, all-in-one treatment - standard program • parallel keys • woodruff keys • gib-head keys • t-nuts For further information please ask for our latest catalogues.

Tel: +49 9074 420 www.nosta.com

omniTECHNIK GmbH

OTTO ROTH GmbH & Co KG

More safety - with precote thread coating precote products provide ideal conditions for: • process controlled assembly • perfectly locked thread joints, even at highest dynamical loads up to 200°C • perfect sealing, also against highest pressure • nondestructive disassembling during the entire operating duration up to 850°C

OTTO ROTH is an innovative trading company for mechanical connecting elements and certified manufacturer of turned and finemachined parts with more then 100,000 products. We offer you rapid delivery from one source with individual logistics possibilities as well as comprehensive e-Business solutions, e.g. e-Shop with its opportunities for rapid data entry and on-line check of the current availability of products. Ask for our free catalogue now!

Tel: +49 711 1388 0 www.ottoroth.de

PFITZER Verbindungstechnik GmbH

Paal Group The Paal-Group is one of the leading companies for Circlips, Spring Washers and Washers like DIN 988. In the group there are different firms working hand in hand for standard and special articles in standard steel and also in INOX. With over 10,000 pallet positions we have one of the greatest stock for these items. Tel: +49 2191 906 134 www.paal.de

Tel: +49 221 949 978 0 www.prelok.com

Strong - accepted - next level The cradle of inch-sized fasteners Leading distributors of Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts, Washers & Specialty Fasteners according to American & British non + standards. Furthermore we offer you a first class procurement management in the special parts sector, especially turned and milled parts as well as parts based on sketches on the inch and metric sector. Self-responsibility Tel: +49 7131 797 769 0 www.pfitzer-verbindungstechnik.de and quality in all areas

Prelok GmbH

PRK Technologies GmbH

PRELOK offers Europe’s widest range of pre-applied locking and sealing solutions, eliminating the need for secondary locking devices, hand-applied liquid adhesives, or sealing tapes. The Tuflok Blue Nylon Patch when applied is permanently fused onto the screw thread of the parent component, and increases the prevailing removal torque, allowing the screw to be locked in any position upon assembly.

PRK Technologies GmbH collaboration with Micron Precision Screws Ltd. India. Manufacturing and supplying high tensile industrial and automobile fasteners. Product: DIN 912, DIN 7991, DIN 7984, ISO 7380, ISO 7379, DIN 6325, DIN 7979D, DIN 908/910, DIN 609/610, DIN 933/931, grade 8.8/10.9/12.9. Finish such as Black Zinc Plating, Decromate, special parts according to Drawing. Range M4 To M48 Maximum Length 400mm.

Fax: +49 40 386 45556 www.prk-tech.com

www.fastenerandfixing.com

C ATA LO G U E R A C K Reyher Reyher is one of the leading wholesalers for fasteners and fastening technology in Europe. Various services are at customers’ disposal, i.e. the widest and most abundant assortment, quick and reliable delivery, good product quality, many e-business possibilities, i.e. Webshop RIO Reyher internet order.

Schäfer + Peters GmbH Competence in stainless steel

Your specialist in stainless steel fasteners. An independent & reliable partner. We carry a stock of over 25,000 different products from the DIN/ISO standard parts sector which are available to you immediately. Our logistic partners guarantee shortest lead times worldwide. We combine quality and service. Take advantage of our excellent business connections.

Schäfer + Peters GmbH│Zeilbaumweg 32│DE-74613 Öhringen Tel. +49 (0) 7941 6094-0│Fax +49 (0) 7941 6094-700 info@schaefer-peters.com│www.schaefer-peters.com

email: export@reyher.de www.reyher.de

Tel: +49 71 32 99 600 www.schroederschrauben.de

Tel: +49 2359 7011 www.voehrs.de

Schäfer + Peters GmbH Your specialist in stainless steel fasteners. An independent & reliable partner. We carry a stock of over 25,000 different products from the DIN/ ISO standard parts sector which are available to you immediately. Our logistic partners guarantee shortest lead times worldwide. We combine quality and service. Take advantage of our excellent business connections.

Tel: +49 7941 6094-0 email: info@schaefer-peters.com

Schröder Schrauben

Sicatech GmbH

Over 30 years experience in trading and supplying customers with inch sized fastening items. • Inch sized screws available from stock. • Availability of every current type of screw threads and materials. • Special parts available as well. • Large availability from stock of high quality as per ISO9001-2000 don’t hesitate to talk to us we will be pleased to help you.

Sicatech is a quality orientated importer and stockist selling self-tapping screws, self-drilling screws, thread-forming screws, thread-cutting screws, Sica-Plas 30º screws for plastic at competitive prices. For many years we have been the partner for fastener distributers in Europe with top service also for smaller quantities and fast deliveries.

email: info@sicatech.com www.sicatech.com

Vöhrs GmbH & Co. KG

VVG Befestigungstechnik GmbH & Co

One of the leading international manufacturers of nuts and stamping. Whether made out ordinary steel, high-grade steel, bright or standard finish surfaces we offer the perfect solution for all your requirements. Our progressive and flexible production allows us to manufacture to your exact specification so you get the product you need - with no compromises!

We are the specialists with the experience of almost 80 years in development, production and sale of rivet technology. Enjoy our successful main catalogue including a wide range of blind rivets, blind rivet nuts and -bolts, industrial rivets, axial clamps, tools and a lot of additional technical background information. Tel: +49 4321 96 71 71 www.vvg-befestigungstechnik.de

Catalogue Rack January 2011 Coming up in the next issue... Fastener Fair Stuttgart Exhibitors Contact: Claire Lake email: claire.lake@fastenerandfixing.com • Tel: +44 (0) 1727 739 150 82

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

3...

Visit us at:

Drill correct sized hole with a standard drill-bit

22-24 FEB 2011 HALL: 6 STAND: K51

2...

Insert ubolt®

1...

Hammer then remove setting-tool

set! ubolt® is a self-cutting undercut anchor with a female internal thread support. No need for a torque wrench or special installation tool. Steps 3..., 2..., and 1... demonstrate how simple this anchor is set. The ubolt® is characteristics: Undercut, even in shallow embedment (30mm). Max loads, depending on grade of concrete (concrete failure). Undercut guaranteed - without the need to check with a torque wrench. Almost possitive undercut. Pre-drilled hole can exceed length L of ubolt®. Available in stainless steel uip®-80 and A2-70 (304Q). Tension and shear load data base available. Approval for cracked concrete available soon. Worldwide patent pending. Length L Thread G

Drill-Ø D

Material

Box

FUA-12-M8-30

uip -80 / A2-70

FUA-12-M8-50

uip®-80 / A2-70

FUA-14-M10-30

M10

uip -80 / A2-70

FUA-14-M10-50

M10

uip -80 / A2-70

FUA-16-M12-30

M12

uip®-80 / A2-70

FUA-16-M12-60

M12

uip®-80 / A2-70

FUA-20-M16-60

M16

uip -80 / A2-70

® ®

Type

For further information, please mail: us at

info@uip-systems.com

or visit our homepage

www.uip-ystems.com.

uip GmbH & Co KG, Natelsheudeweg 26, 30900 Wedemark, Germany

ubolt® is a registered trademark of uip Univeral Innovative Products GmbH & Co. KG

www.uip-systems.com

M A N U FA CT U R I N G T E C H N O LO G Y

A glimpse into the future of corrosion protection

Atotech recently opened the doors of its TechCenter, in Trebur-Geinsheim, Germany, to more than 140 guests from 15 different countries for the Corrosion Protection Summit 2010.

fter just two years from its inauguration, the TechCenter was once again the stage for presenting the most innovative solutions for corrosion protection coatings - with a focus on product quality, process efficiency and environmental sustainability. Guided on a tour of the diverse facilities at the TechCenter, Atotech’s guests examined the corrosion resistant coatings line and the advanced wastewater treatment system, operating with ion exchangers and UV. On their way around the line, visitors were acquainted with the technological and environmental advantages offered by the auxiliary

equipment installed. Notable highlights were the Tricotect® regeneration system for Cr(VI)-free passivates, and Recotect® regeneration system for zinc nickel electrolytes, which Atotech says ensure continuous plating quality at constantly high current efficiency and over the entire lifetime of the plating solution. In addition, the Summit offered Atotech the chance to show for the first time to the public the recently installed on-line analytic system, developed to maximise control over the line by performing a whole range of automated analyses, from titration and spectroscopy to conductivity measurements. Among the diverse zinc

flakes coating devices at display, Atotech reports that visitors’ attention was drawn to the Planetary Centrifuge coating system, eliminating recess fills even from the most complicated fasteners, and to the state-of-the-art Dip Drain System. During the second day of the Summit, visitors attended to several presentations covering the key issues of the future of corrosion protection. Along the extensive presentations’ agenda, special guests from the fasteners and automotive industries also took the floor. Particular emphasis was placed on environmental responsibility, with some of Atotech’s nontoxic processes and regeneration systems being illustrated in detail.

Offering what the customer needs As production ramps up across the globe, the requirement for capacity - in different forms - is required. National Machinery can offer two distinct equipment offerings for different customer needs.

irstly the economical LeanFX models are geared toward producing parts in the fastest and most efficient way possible. Ideally suited for long production runs, LeanFX is equipped with simplified features to be more affordable. LeanFX is designed by National Machinery headquarters in Tiffin, but built by it’s wholly owned National Machinery Group Technologies (NMGT) facility in Suzhou, China. LeanFX has the same high-quality FORMAX features and components such as linear feed, zero-clearance heading slide and straight-across transfer. The LeanFX family has grown to cover a large range of models and die configurations to fit any fastener producer’s needs. Machine sizes include: • • • •

anyone about used cold forming machines. This is an advantage for either buying or selling a used machine. National Machinery - Used machine advantages: • OEM knowledge of exact machine options and specifications. • Known location of thousands of machine models. • Global sales network, including 15 offices and service centres in North America, Europe, and Asia. • Complete language capability. • Available technicians for complete machine evaluations.

LeanFX8 - in 2, 3, 4 and 5 dies. LeanFX10 - in 2, 3, 4 and 5 dies. LeanFX14 - in 4 and 5 dies. LeanFX18 - in 4 and 5 dies.

The second offering from National Machinery is its used machinery sales capabilities. Quality used machinery that match customers existing technology can be a big production benefit. National Machinery, as the OEM and world leader in metal forming technology has the unique ability to know more than

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

M A N U FA CT U R I N G T E C H N O LO G Y

New speciﬁcation acceptance for Magni Magni Group Inc, and Magni Japan Inc, suppliers of coating materials to the automotive industry, have announced a new specification acceptance in the form of Honda Accord HES D2008.

agni Group explains that its protective coating system Magni 568 has been approved for use on various small metal parts, hose clamps, bolts and nuts in the 2013 Honda Accord vehicle. Magni 568 is available in silver, blue, red and black. Magni has been coating metal bolts, nuts, stampings, clamps, and other metal components for over 35 years, with its coatings being specifically engineered to extend the life of metal products by preventing corrosion.

SMS Meer modernises rebar mill SMS Meer has recently modernised Hmisho Trading Group’s rebar mill with an EBROS® system for endless rolling of sections, leading to a significant increase in the plant capacity.

MS Meer explains that the overall annual production has been increased by a minimum of 5% as a result of this modernisation. A further benefit is that the metal yield is improved by 1.5% through a reduction in the crop-end losses and the number of short bars. The EBROS® system was developed under license from Steel Plantech, Japan, and is based on the welding technology employed in the construction of tracks for high-speed trains. The technology has now been transferred to steelworks construction. The billet welding system is used to weld together the hot billets

(1,100°C) as they come out of the furnace. SMS Meer says that this process makes endless rolling possible, offering a considerable increase in productivity, material yield and plant utilisation, guaranteeing a consistently high product quality. At Hmisho, square billets of 130mm x 130mm and 12m in length are welded, based on a yield of 60 tonne per hour. The complete rebar mill with HSD® (High-Speed Delivery) system at Hmisho was supplied in 2007 by SMS Meer. The annual capacity is 350,000 tonnes.

N.O.F. Metal Coatings Europe wins award N.O.F. Metal Coatings Europe, formerly Dacral S.A., was voted overall winner of the 2010 European Responsible Care® Awards, beating a record-number 53 entries from 10 countries.

.O.F. Metal Coatings Europe earned top honours for developing a new version of existing coatings mainly used for small parts such as automotive sector bolts and fasteners. Judges praised the robust, innovative nature of the N.O.F. Metal Coatings Europe award submission, especially highlighting that the high-tech coating combines “a very impressive decrease of volatile organic compounds emissions with the phasing out of harmful compound - hexavalent chromium while turning a profit.” The elimination of hexavalent chromium alone was commended as “not easy and very innovative.” The new version coating product, designed for use by coating applicators subcontracted by automotive companies, required several years of dedicated research, including working with scientific institutions to better understand sol-gel technology. Under a project launched in 2004, pilot testing took place in 2007 and full commercial application of the technology occurred in March 2010 on two industrial lines in Germany. N.O.F. Metal Coatings Europe explains that the environmentally friendly coating vastly reduces the use of organic solvents from conventional levels down to 4% - 5%. The company also notes that the new compound does not contain methanol (toxic) or ethoxylated nonylphenol (endocrinian effects). Cefic president Christian Jourquin, who presented the awards at the Cefic annual general assembly in Rome said: “The awards competition this year was the most intense in its Cefic president Christian Jourquin (left) presents 6 year history. The winning projects clearly highlighted how the chemical industry is high-tech, innovative and sustainable”. Alain Chesneau, R&D manager at N.O.F. Metal

Coatings, with the Responsible care® prize 86

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

victorycommunication.it

the You are looking to the future, choose the best technology. THE NEW THREAD ROLLERS INGRAMATIC WITH COMPUTERIZED DIE MATCH ADJUSTMENT.

ECH HIGH T NS IO T U L O S

FIXED DIE HOLDER

QUICK DIE MATCH ADJUSTMENT

MOTORIZED GUIDES

SLIDE WITH HYDROSTATIC GUIDES

Innovative solutions for thread rolling of high tensile bolts. Nothing by hand but everything computerized. Ingramatic manufactures special guides with carbide or high speed steel inserts (M2) hardened to a high level of hardness increasing the resistance to wear caused by feeding. The following adjustments can be made on the new die holder block: height adjustment on the lower support surface; distance and angular adjustment of the rear support surface on the operator side. Height adjustment of the guides is motorized and can be quickly repeated when needed. Motorization can also be used to automatically align the guides with the vibratory feeder. In option, the width opening of the motorized guides can also be regulated using presetting. Ingramatic uses a hydrostatic guide system that features a high load-carrying capacity with significant damping. The pressurized lubricant is sent via a distributor to the special bronze guides fixed to the main frame. Due to the hydrostatic pockets in the guides, a layer of oil is formed that evenly distributes the work load and absorbs any shocks created when the workpiece is placed between the dies. Ingramatic supplies an additional option for the automatic die match adjustment in order to reduce the set up time and improve the tool life. The device permit a static die adjustment to control the perfect quality of the parts and a dynamic adjustment to reduce the tool costs. Only the highest quality of the materials, design and manufacturing of Ingramatic can provide a real result of automatic die match. Ingramatic is the only one company in the world to supply threaders for treated parts and special parts.

SACMA LIMBIATE S.p.A.: Limbiate - Milano - ITALY - Tel. +39 02 99 45 21 - Fax +39 02 99 05 01 85 - com@sacmalimbiate.it - info@sacmalimbiate.it - www.sacmalimbiate.it INGRAMATIC S.p.A.: Castelnuovo Scrivia - Alessandria - ITALY - Tel. +39 0131 87 161 - Fax +39 0131 82 30 70 - com@ingramatic.com - www.ingramatic.com

ADV_INGRAMATIC_FastenerFixing.indd 1

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M A N U FA CT U R I N G T E C H N O LO G Y

Dörken extends portfolio through acquisition Dörken MKS-Systeme GmbH & Co KG, based in Herdecke, Germany, has recently taken over LP-Oberflächentechnik GmbH of Schalksmühle, Germany.

P-Oberflächentechnik GmbH develops and markets specialist products for electroplating. This includes pre-treatment of the metal materials to various electroplating baths and on to passivation and sealing for after-treatment. The centrepiece of the product range is a high performance galvanisation system that is recyclable and therefore resource-saving and economical. In addition, the company has also developed a temper-free pre-treatment and coating system for the separation of non-brittlefracturing zinc and zinc alloy coatings. With the acquisition of LPO Dörken is expanding its product portfolio in zinc flake technology to include galvanic systems, making a conscious choice for the economical and ecologically aligned innovations of the LPO series in the process. “This addition enables us to set a further milestone with regard to Mikroschicht-Korrosionsschutz-Systeme the growing innovative ability of Delta-MKS® systems,” says managing director Dr. Gerhard Reusmann.

Top-Cut from Streicher Streicher Maschinenbau GmbH, based in KressBronn, Germany, has extented its Top-Cut range by a further three machines. These new machines are the Top-Cut 10D for tapping M6 M10, Top-Cut 16D for M5 - M16 and Top-Cut 33D for M16 - M33.

n order to achieve a high output quantity the machines are provided with two working spindles which operate according to the overflow principle (bent shank tap). Streicher points out that all kinds of standard, flange and round nuts, as well as special parts, can be machined, and the consistent implementation of mechanical controls with electrical monitoring assures uniform high quality for manufactured parts. For safety reasons, and in order to design the machines as compact as possible, the protective hoods enclose the entire feeding and working area. Streicher highlights that the strong coolant current lubricates the thread taps very effectively and thus ensures a high cutting speed and a maximum tool life. At the same time, it maintains the cleanliness of all machines and tool parts. Even after extended service there is no accumulation of chips anywhere. The machines also enable a reliable graveyard shift production due to torque monitoring.

Delta offers short-run packaging system Delta Engineering Corp, based in Winchester, MA, USA, has designed and built fastener packaging systems since 1951. Up until 2007, its machines were geared toward larger companies with long runs on fully automatic counting and weigh-counting systems. However, in 2007 Delta started offering a semi-automatic, short-run packaging system that is simple to use, easy to change from part to part, has a small footprint and an economical price.

elta explains that this packaging system is designed for the packaging of fasteners, electrical connectors, and other discretely shaped items into boxes, bags, clamshells, and jars when packaging runs are too short for the setup time needed for fully automatic systems or for those who have packaging requirements that do not justify the higher cost of full automation. It also lends itself to the packaging of items that tangle too much for automatic machinery to count accurately. The system is designed as a replacement for the traditional bench scale by taking most of the material handling out of the process with the use of a vibratory feeder system. Delta

highlights that this method eliminates the drudgery of the hand-filling process and makes for a much more pleasant and productive packaging experience. Bulk product is loaded into the bowl and fed directly into the container which is held in place by a funneling fixture freeing the hands of the operator to close and label the previous package while the next package is being filled. Customers report a doubling of the productivity vs. hand packing which, combined with the unit’s low price, makes for a favorable ROI for those who currently hand-package as little as four hours per day. Delta lists European installations of the short-run packaging system in Aberdeen, Scotland and Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

M A N U FA CT U R I N G T E C H N O LO G Y

New dimensions in screw testing TesT GmbH, with headquarters in Erkrath Düsseldorf, Germany, offers benches with patented measuring heads to investigate friction value and other mechanical properties of fasteners.

esT has delivered numerous machines in this field and has established itself as a market leader. Particularly in the area of screw testing, TesT cooperates with famous producers of screws, bolts, nuts and coating materials as well as with the most important automotive manufacturers. In collaboration with this industry TesT has brought innovations and patents into the market. Due to the requirements for bolts and nuts in accordance to ISO 14399 for wind turbines customers asked for solutions to determine the relevant properties up to diameter M64. A cooperative team spirit was an essential ingredient for the realisation. Electronics and mechanical engineers, physicists and IT scientists worked together to extend the machine range to larger dimensions. Up to now TesT has delivered three of these units and is working on a project for an M80 version. In accordance with ISO 14399 a patented 2-component sensor is used. The clamping force of the fastener and the total torque are measured. The maximum values are 3,000kN and 30,000Nm. The drive unit, which has a maximum torque of 30,000Nm, offers a rotary angle resolution of 0.1° and permits speeds up to 10rpm. The control and evaluation software TestWinner allows computer-aided realisation of the tests. Freely programmable sequences, result calculation, data export and an extremely fast PC-board allow simple adaptation to different test scenarios. Software packages according to international standards or standards of car manufacturers are also available. By using 3- or 4-component measuring heads it is possible to record without influence of one by the other the total head and thread friction in accordance to ISO 16047. Additional facilities such as extensometers for direct length measurement and measurements under temperature control (patented) are possible on all variants.

Influence of temperature on screw connections

Screws are currently the category of fastener under the strictest and most elaborate research, says TesT GmbH. Sometimes not every question is defined and there are more and more new problems which appear, sometimes, to be insolvable. The diversity of applications involved adds to the complexity and there are increasing demands for more detailed and enlightening results that will help to drive further development. One of the most important questions, in the past and at present, is the influence of temperature on screw connections. TesT GmbH has given specific attention to this matter. Tests according to DIN 16047 and others concerning coefficients of friction (screws and nuts) at fixed conditions are applicable

with TesT screw testing machines. Screw tests under modified climate conditions become more important. Here the temperature dependence of the mechanical characteristics plays a decisive role. For testing static fastener features under temperature state-of-the-art testing machines have needed to be located in a climatic chamber. A big drawback of this method is that the temperature prevailing in the test environment will influence both the screws under test and the measurement heads. This presents particular problems in the sensors’ thermal compensation and, secondly, the substantial issue of maintaining calibration simultaneous to changing of the temperature. As a result levels of guaranteed accuracy are relatively poor. During research of screw connections designed for the elevated temperatures characteristic for applications in or near by combustion engines, the installation of the screws occurs at room temperature, typically around 23°C. It has, though, to be ensured that the connection keeps its mechanical properties when the temperature increases, for example up to 150°C. For that purpose, the connection will be released at higher temperature whereupon relevant parameter will be determined and analysed. The temperature device developed by TesT is setting a new standard for the future testing of screw connections. This device presents a cost-effective and simple solution for determining screw properties subject to temperature effects. In comparison with other solutions, this system succeeds in providing exceedingly high accuracy of results without the necessity of recalibrating for different temperatures.

Keeping ahead of fastener testing requirements

TesT GmbH offers a range of other testing machinery and ancillary equipment designed for use in the fastener industry, including torsion testing machines, force and torque transducers and robotic materials testing equipment. With an established worldwide reputation as a specialist supplier of material and construction testing and force measurement equipment, TesT GmbH is firmly focused on continuing to design to meet the future requirements for fastener testing. The company provides a broad spectrum of equipment and technologies to its customers, ranging from individual measurement components through to complex solutions to meet customers’ specialised needs, particularly where special fastener components, as opposed to those conforming to international norms, are involved. This ‘project’ business is the area in which TesT really demonstrates its strengths in developing tailored, customer specific solutions.

New high speed inspection system Regg Inspection, based in Milan, Italy, has introduced the new High Speed 360 degree inspection system to detect damages on threads.

his patented system can run up to 300 pieces per minute and can detect damages on the crest of the thread over the entire surface of the screw. Regg Inspection points out that it’s highly skilled technical staff are able to design and manufacture among the highest quality inspection systems in the market, and its on-site technical service can assist customers in all main markets. The main applications for the High Speed 360 degree control are fasteners for the automotive, aerospace and screw machined product industries.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

www.cortidomenico.com

We can answer your packaging needs CORTI DOMENICO Srl has been working in the field of packaging since 1978 and is specialized on projecting, making and supplying complete lines made with machines assembled and synchronized to get a sequence of operations for fully automatic packaging cycle. We are packaging products such as small metallic and plastic parts, springs and special wire forms, cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. Corti Domenico Srl has widen its commercial network abroad reaching European Community countries, C.I.S. countries and others. We are applying, bagging, boxing, cartoning, checking, closing, counting, dosing, feeding, gluing, labelling, opening, taping, palletizing, parallelizing, weighing, wrapping.

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Via Seminario, 34 - 23900 Lecco - Italy Tel: +39.0341.498344 Fax: +39.0341.493802 Web: www.cortidomenico.com email: info@cortidomenico.com

M A N U FA CT U R I N G T E C H N O LO G Y

GEFRA OPTISORT® crack detection on the fast lane Fastener quality requirements are continuously growing as both products and customers become more demanding. The results are more and more complex quality control tasks within and at the end of the manufacturing process chain, with increasing batch values in shorter times.

he GEFRA Company is facing up to this evolution, offering flexible and steadily widening customer and product specific solutions, based on its approved OPTISORT® technologies. For 15 years the GEFRA Company, situated in Germany’s Westerwald, has developed and manufactured complete solutions for measuring, checking, and sorting applications in the field of industrial mass production of fasteners and other production parts made of metal and plastics. The primary business goal of the GEFRA Company is to ensure an efficient 100 percent automatic quality control at the nerve centres within or at the end of the fastener process chain of its customers, where a cost efficient and zero ppm error

demonstrated especially around intensive consulting activities, delivery reliability, and fast reactions concerning its products and customers. More than 200 systems, on site at many famous national and international fastener manufacturers and sorting companies, speak convincingly for the GEFRA Company.

Growing requirements

Driven by increasing quality demands, fastener and parts manufacturers are required to apply more and more extensive control processes to their products and to keep records, especially before the final products are delivered. While previously some simple dimensions were sufficient, now complex geometric measurements, inspections for damages like scratches, dents, points of impact, and cracks are a daily requirement. In addition to these, errors in colour, surface coatings, and also impurities have to be found at several positions on the parts. Thread examinations can range from an existence check to the measurement of all relevant parameter values. Functional elements like the driving recess have to be examined for complete forming. To a similar extent to the complexity of examinations, the performance and availability demands of the control systems and their internal and external components are increasing.

GEFRA OPTISORT® control and sorting system confirmation is essential. For this, different product lines of optical control systems are available. The GEFRA product portfolio is complemented by a wide spectrum of offers in the fields of service, maintenance and training. The strength of the GEFRA Company is

High speed image processing

Driven by these steadily increasing demands the GEFRA Company is continuously working on further development of its technologies: both hardware and software. The new generation of the control system OPTISORT® N (nuts) and W (washer) comes with up to seven image acquisition stations including all together up to 12 cameras. State-of-the-art camera technology enables an image acquisition at up to 30 frames per second. Flexible in use and based on modern LED technology, the

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

M A N U FA CT U R I N G T E C H N O LO G Y the end of the customer’s production line as a standalone component. A range of opportunities in part buffer storage and transport, part alignment, separation, and feeding are available. Important is the applied feeding technology, which is responsible for the smooth and even flow of parts through the system. Only this can guarantee a performance of up to 1,000 parts per minute. After the inspection and sorting process the parts can be filled into bulk containers, standard trays, or customer specific boxes. Different tray and filling systems like linear and rotary transfer fillers, band and roll-conveyors are available. Connection to existing customer-specific packaging systems is also possible. Naturally the control system counts the parts and controls the feeding and filling processes.

The next step

The GEFRA Company with its highly qualified and experienced staff members and partners in the field of mechatronics, Image acquisition stations in OPTISORT W-System electro techniques, engineering, informatics and natural sciences is working continuously to further optimise and illumination elements allow both the generation of contrasts for develop its products and technologies. different surface defects and making measurable contours visible The main focus lies on the further increase of the control - on a wide spectrum of parts and dimensions, generally without performance, on the integration of new concepts for illumination mechanical adjustments. and image acquisition, and also on the development of multiple The image acquisition hardware works independently using sensor systems. The integration of other imaging media like FPGA electronics, also responsible for the fast in-order (IO) and X-ray and other non-invasive inspections will be the next step. not-in-order (NIO) output processes. In these fields the GEFRA Company will work in collaboration The approved PC-based system software AUTOCONTROL does with external research institutions too. the image processing and generates the IO/NIO decision with In future the GEFRA Company will continue to offer its the help of an individual quality control plane, which includes all customers reliable, flexible, and robust state-of-the-art solutions important parameters of the part. Normally the planes include for their quality control applications. measurments as well as counts and examinations based on attributes, for instance for surface quality. The new software development contains tools for surface inspection inside complex contours, shavings in hexagonal structures, and multi dimensional error classifications. With the development of a feature-based position identification tool, the known problem of the verifiability of not-side-oriented parts can be solved. In the calibration process such a part is now captured from two sides or orientations. The identification of a well-defined orientation feature, which can be quantified by measurement or counting during runtime, allows the decision about the application of tools and parameters to the right image position. Especially for the examination of double end studs, this tool is of huge value for the actual performance of control and sorting. More and more complex software tools need higher user attention. Within AUTOCONTROL, she or he is supported by improved dynamic and intuitive user guidance with lots of decision-making aids and visualisations. In spite of the growing number and increasing complexity of examination tasks, the developers at the GEFRA Company continuously enhance the performance of its systems. Dependent on the performance of the part feeding, 1,000 parts per minute can pass GEFRA’s control systems.

Peripheral equipment

The OPTISORT control systems can be added very easily at

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

M A N U FA CT U R I N G T E C H N O LO G Y

Robust multihead weigher for larger metal parts Hastamat Verpackungstechnik GmbH has recently supplied and installed a weighing and packing line for continuous packing of heavy duty pressed parts. Here the company describes the robust design and construction required to meet this challenging application.

HASTAMAT 14-head multihead weigher of the CP-series in especially robust design for the weighing of larger metal parts

he industrial manufacturing of metal parts is normally fully automated. In many cases it is about standard and DIN parts of the machine and line engineering, mounting parts for traffic and automotive engineering, fittings for the furniture industry. Screws, nuts, disc washers, hinges, buffers, connecting elements or stamped parts are only a few examples. Usually multihead weighers are used for the packing of these products. In practice, these solutions can have a serious disadvantage. Originally the multihead weighers were developed for totally different products, e.g. the food industry. For the dosing and packing of metal parts, extremely Product collecting robust construction is required. bin with dipping Conventional multihead weighers from hopper, pneumatically the food industry often do not meet driven, for carton these requirements and are, therefore, not suitable for continuous operation filling in these challenging environments. For a customer in the presswork industry, Hastamat has developed a multihead weigher of the CP-series in a special design, matching exactly the requirements for the weighing and dosing of metal parts. Plain washers, with a diameter of up to 65mm and unit piece weights of up to 130g, are filled into cartons with a filling weight of up to 7kg. The complete line consists of a product feeding system, a Hastamat 14-head multihead weigher for metal products and a carton filling system. The metal parts are delivered to the vibratory feeding chute of the multihead weigher by a flighted elevator. The surface of the feeding chute and the surface of the vibratory dosing chutes of the multihead weigher have an industrial fibre lining. This lining minimises the noise and

reduces the wear and moreover increases the output. The other surfaces in contact with product are additionally protected against abrasion by an extremely thick polymer coating. To control the product feeding system, the filling level at the central feeding hopper is determined by a weighing cell located underneath the central distribution plate. For heavy products this method is superior compared to any photocell method and enables a more consistent and controlled feed to the dosing chutes. Subsequently the metal parts are transferred into the weighing bins via the dosing bins, both equipped with electric motor driven bin flaps and automatic locking mechanisms. Besides the constructional reinforcement, all bins are protected with additional, quick-changeable, baffle plates made of polyethylene. The material used has a very high resistance to wear, very good sliding characteristics and ensures excellent shock absorbance. The special benefit of this construction is that the heavy metal parts always bounce onto the fixed baffle plates and not onto the flexible flaps, avoiding damage and wear of the flaps. After quick determination of the best combination of weights for achieving the target weight, the products are transferred into the collecting bin through coated product slides. Filling of the cartons is done by a pneumatic dipping hopper. The products can also be transferred into other packages or directly into the filling tube of a vertical form, fill, and seal machine.

Fastener + Fixing Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 66 November 2010

Example of layout: line for automatic packing of metal parts

M A N U FA CT U R I N G T E C H N O LO G Y

New LaserLab 3D inspection system The new LaserLab 3D inspection system delivers comprehensive profiling inspection in 20 seconds. Greg Nygaard, VP of sales & marketing for General Inspection introduces the system and relates the experiences of key customers.

or many fastener-related businesses including manufacturers, distributors and end users, the inspection process has long been an expensive bottleneck, demanding high investment in gauges and related tools as well as extensive man-hours. As the number of applications requiring low-volume, high-value specialty parts has increased, the difficulty is even more severe. A practical solution is now available in the LaserLab inspection system from General Inspection, LLC, of Davisburg, Michigan, USA. Our company was initially involved in the development of sorting systems. In working with our customers, we identified the need for technology that could deliver 100% 3D part inspection in a short time and document the findings. The result is LaserLab.

A complete, self-calibrating system

LaserLab is designed for parts from 2mm to 38mm diameter and is available in models that accommodate 150mm and 300mm part lengths. A bench-top version is popular for lab use, and a larger floor model is built to withstand harsh shop environments. During the inspection process, parts are held stationary in an upright position. Because the part does not rotate, fixturing is accomplished quickly and easily. A comprehensive recess bit kit comes standard with each LaserLab unit. The bits hold the part in place and also measure recess depth. Once the part is fixed, a series of laser-emitting diodes specifically designed for inspection purposes scan the part. The first time a part is inspected, a template is created using General Inspection’s powerful yet user-friendly Windows®based software. The template can be developed directly from a prototype or sample part or from a CAD file or print and consists of a graphic representation, as well as numerical data. Anchor points are established to delineate all part features. Once created, templates are stored in the LaserLab’s electronic memory and can be recalled at any time for future inspections. As the part is scanned, a real-time comparison is made to the standards defined by the template, and any deviations are recorded. The 100% profile inspection covers all part characteristics including lengths, diameters, radii, tapers, min/max material, hex: across flats/corners, threads, trilobe, straightness, concentricity, wrench height, recess depth, first/ last scratch thread, and first/last full thread. After every scan, LaserLab automatically recalibrates itself via a NIST traceable calibration device. As a result, quality does not deteriorate over time or with changing environmental conditions.

Full thread inspection capability

One of the most critical aspects of inspection involves thread measurement. Thanks to LaserLab’s patented arrangement of laser-emitting diodes and detectors, eight beams focus on the part to deliver accurate data for all thread characteristics, including thread count, pitch and pitch diameter, major and minor diameter, functional diameter, lead deviation, flank angle root radius, and thread quality. Inspection results can be viewed in metric or standard measurements. Keeping in constant contact with our customers has resulted in a very positive ongoing product evolution, especially in the software area. For instance, the team at Fastenal requested that we input the Comprehensive Thread Database into the system, and we did. Currently, it’s a standard feature.

Customised capability for standard - and special - parts

Brad Partington, lab manager at the Winona, Minnesota, headquarters of Fastenal, describes the integration of LaserLab into the inspection process: “We first saw LaserLab at the Fastener Trade Show, and the concept interested us, so a group of our people went up to Michigan to see a demonstration. To make sure that it met our needs, we stopped by at one of our stores and got a bunch of sample parts. After seeing the system in action, we put our heads together and came up with a list of software features that we needed including a thread database, metric/standard conversion, and others. The people at General Inspection were extremely helpful and responded right away. In fact, we continually e-mail them for updates. I’m sure their experience with us has improved the system for other manufacturers and distributors as well.” “In addition to the tens of thousands of standard parts we sell, Fastenal has customer-specific accounts. These include critical parts for products such as electrical drives and energy-related systems, among others. We create an individual procedure manual for each account, and it’s not unusual for these parts to require 100% inspection. In one case, a series of electrical components required checking of 15 to 20 separate dimensions, necessitating the use of 15 different gauges and several man-hours per part. Thanks to LaserLab, we now inspect those parts in less than 20 seconds, and we are more accurate than previously.” “We also use the LaserLab for random vendor audits. In those cases, the templates are developed from Fastenal product

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

global fur nace systems group

M A N U FA CT U R I N G T E C H N O LO G Y standards or industry standards.” Brad and the Fastenal team have been so impressed that they see further use for LaserLab throughout the company. “We found many advantages to the system. For instance, as an international company we maintain laboratories in a number of our facilities. We’ve just bought another unit for the lab in the Netherlands. Now, instead of laborious manual inspection, we can exchange templates on-line and speed the process. In the future, we could foresee putting them in our manufacturing facility for first-piece inspection and ongoing quality checks. It is truly a stateof-the-art system.”

“We utilise a number of manufacturing processes including machining and thread rolling, and the system has been helpful in detecting machine-related deviations and enabling us to immediately correct the situation. Because the automatic recalibration maintains such a high level of accuracy, we have also used the LaserLab to calibrate some of our gauges.” “The operation is so fast and easy that in-process inspection can be implemented without any trouble. When you’re producing complex high-tolerance parts for some of the most demanding applications in industry, inspection is critical to success, and I haven’t seen a system as good as this.”

Meeting the difficult challenges

Documented accountability multiple uses

Industrial Forge, Inc., of Alma, Georgia, manufactures specialty fasteners exclusively. Founded in Florida by industry veteran Ted Murray, the business grew rapidly and relocated to Alma in 2006 to expedite shipments and control freight costs. Today, the company occupies a 15,000sq. ft. facility and employs a workforce of 30 in two shifts. “As a specialty manufacturer, we have to maintain a zero-defects policy and that includes everything about the product,” says Ted Murray. “For instance, we invested US$35,000 in a hand-held sensing device that’s used to check the materials we use. Our products are made from a variety of metals and alloys including stainless, monel, silicon, bronze and exotics, and we can’t afford to take the chance that something is mislabeled. When we first saw the LaserLab and then arranged a demonstration, we knew right away that it could take our inspection procedures to a new level.” “For us, one of the most valuable features is the recorded documentation. We do a good amount of work for the energy sector, and in some cases such as nuclear plants, every part made carries a 100% accountability factor. Thanks to the LaserLab’s software features, we can have a permanent record here and supply documentation to the customer.”

Würth Service Supply, of Indianapolis, Indiana, is a member of the worldwide Würth Group - diversified companies serving more than three million international customers. As a global leader in assembly and fastening materials, Würth is committed to the highest standards of product quality. Early in 2010, the company completed the installation of a new LaserLab inspection system. According to Steve Greene, director of quality, “We were looking for a system that could accurately handle the mostdifficult-to-measure products. These would include threaded fasteners of exceptionally intricate design that required lengthy inspection times using manual gauges. We looked at several different systems but were extremely impressed by LaserLab because the setup process was much more intuitive and not as limiting as machines I have seen in the past.” Würth Service Supply maintains an A2LA-Certified quality lab and has developed its own proprietary inspection software. Steve Greene comments, “One of the things that really sold us on LaserLab was the ability to integrate their software with our own, so as to maintain a complete reference file for inspection purposes. “One of the challenges we face comes in the form of specialty parts generated on CNC turning centers. The combination of multiple angles and grooves and extremely tight tolerances resulted in very long inspection times. Although it varies greatly between types of products, with LaserLab, we’ve cut inspection time on some parts by 90%. We also have a more thorough inspection and a better record.“

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“Also, we found that when it comes to standard parts, LaserLab gives us the flexibility to use existing templates to define new parts of varying lengths. The system has not only saved time and improved our process. It’s also given us a great deal more flexibility.” Perhaps most important, the staff at Würth Service Supply has been extremely impressed by the user-friendliness of the system. Steve comments, “The time required for the initial training of the system was minimal, and any time we’ve had any questions regarding the system, we’ve received excellent support from the people at General Inspection. Although the system is new to us, it has integrated exceptionally well into our quality program

and is providing us with fully accurate inspections in a fraction of the time.”

“The new standard…”

LaserLab has a bright future in a world of new applications. When we first developed the system, we thought we knew what it could do, but it seems that every day our customers are using the system for things we never originally thought of. Also, many of the software modifications they have requested have become standard on the machine and greatly expanded its capabilities. When an enthusiastic customer base is actively helping you to refine and evolve a product, you know you’re on the cutting edge of your industry. We see LaserLab as the new standard in inspection technology.

m a n u fa ct u r i n g t e c h n o lo g y

Providing maximum ﬂexibility Excel Metalform Techniques, based in Wem, Shropshire, UK, specialises in the supply, packaging and distribution of industrial components, fasteners and fixings for a diverse base of global clients in the manufacturing and technology industry.

he company also provides sub contract packing of screws and fixings to some of the major national catalogue and trade counter distributors. Following an increase in this business the company recently commissioned a new line from industrial packaging machinery specialist Comcount specifically for these contracts with a major emphasis on speed flexibility and accuracy. The heart of the system is a new Twin Head version of Comcount’s unique BFW650 Automatic Counting/Weighing System which Comcount states combines optical counting and weighing facilities in one machine giving unrivalled accuracy and flexibility. The Twin Counter System incorporates a new Siemens control system and touch screen display which enables the counters to be utilised to run two separate products such as nuts and bolts or screws and plastic plugs into the same bag or the same product can be run on both heads to achieve a higher output speed. The system also incorporates an Indexing Pocket Conveyor with manual workstations which can be utilised to manually add additional items to the bag if more than two different components are required or for very short production runs. Because the bags produced on the system are required for more point of sale applications, where an extremely good pack presentation is required, it was decided to utilise an Autobag AB180 Bag on Reel Bagmaker in the line. This system utilises pre-made Autobag bags which are available in a range of formats including clear polythene, white on one side for overprinting and full colour with optional Euroslot

header. The machine is also fitted with a Thermal Transfer Overprinter to print high quality text and bar codes directly on to the bag. The system is completed with an Inclined Bag Takeaway Conveyor and a Comcount Checkweigher unit to provide a final bag check when parts are added manually to provide the high degree of accuracy and quality control that Excel demand. Bob Stokes, managing director of Excel Metalform Techniques is delighted with the results. “We are currently utilising Comcount equipment with four complete lines already installed and have experienced significant savings in terms of manpower time and cost. By discussing our new requirement with Comcount they have been able to provide us with an automatic line that meets all of our specifications regarding increased flexibility, speed and accuracy enabling us to improve the service we are able to offer our customers.”

Weighpack supplies nickel packing line Weighpack International recently received an order from Vale Ltd, a Brazilian mining company, for the supply of five automatic packing lines for nickel product for Vale’s new nickel refinery in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

he machines that Weighpack will provide will pack 99.9% pure nickel, which will be used as basic material for stainless steel wire rod, sheet metal and battery components for automotive purposes. The fully automatic packing line is for 250kg drums, which are denested from a full pallet load, filled, checked, closed, palletised, stretch wrapped and labelled with a unique label showing the source for quality tracking and tracing.

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m a n u fa ct u r i n g t e c h n o lo g y

Why analysing threaded fasteners is necessary The quality of the screws and nuts used in assembly has an enormous effect on the quality of screwed joints, in turn influencing the quality of the final product. Performance tests are the most important type of analysis for use in assembly processes.

or bolts and nuts to do their job correctly the connected parts must be held together by a clamping force. The ‘minimum’ required force is calculated by the design engineer and must never fall beneath the specified clamp force value. During assembly the target fastening value is not the clamping force but, in most cases, a specified torque value. The relation between the applied torque and the reached clamping force is the friction in the thread and in the bearing surface. For determination of corresponding friction coefficients µ-total, µ-thread and µ-bearing it is necessary to know the total, thread and bearing torque and also the clamping force. This is where SCHATZ Analysis Systems prove their worth. The laboratory system enables fast and precise analysis of fasteners. Parameters like torque, clamping force, angle and other magnitudes like length changing or temperature are measured during the assembly procedure and evaluated. The laboratory system measures according to standards or under practical conditions for the assembly. Testing procedures can be performed rapidly and easily. ‘Wizards’ support easy programming of testing specifications to prepare the measuring procedure. Dimensions for threaded fasteners can be found in the thread specific database. Fast change adapter sets align the threaded fastener to the clamping force/thread friction-transducers.

Adapters are available for testing of nuts or bolts. Testing sequences are accomplished rapidly and effectively. The fastener to be tested is applied and the system starts the testing procedure by a push of a button. During each testing procedure the motor drive is able to proceed at different speeds to determine the assembly behaviour under production conditions. Online graphics enables the operator to assess exceptional behavior of the fastener during the testing sequence. Measured values and determined tightening characteristics are statistically calculated and displayed in charts. R&D obtains valuable information about the bolted joint behavior during assembly by measuring diagrams. Friction diagrams show the relationship of torque and tension. Graphs and lists are printed out to individual requirements - print format and logos can be adapted to specific corporate identity. The software testXpert© allows direct mailing of documentation via e-mail.

Simple and quick inspection solution To ensure product excellence the inspection system adopted by companies has to be able to check each manufacturing process so that unqualified products - due to tool life, wire quality, mechanical failure or other factors - are discovered instantly.

an Shing Fastech Corp has developed two new series of measurement system, SBM-35L and SXM-30S, aimed at replacing traditional measurement devices such as optical projector (2D), surface profilers or hand measurement tools (micrometer and internal gauges) to help ensure that the quality of products is always excellent. The new systems are equipped with a high precision telecentric lens and collimated illuminator to achieve precise measurement accuracy. SBM-35L is specially designed for the fast inspection of bolt products during manufacturing so that quality control can be

implemented on each manufacturing process. The measurement data obtained from each process can be used for complete process capability analysis and failure tracking. SXM-30S is designed for measurement of cylindrical parts such as punch with a high mix, low volume characteristic. The measurement and dimension marking are done automatically; presetting is not required. The reading can be dragged and pasted directly to the engineering drawing; no handwriting or form filling is required. In addition, the complete information can be saved or printed easily for data management.

104 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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m a n a g e m e n t + sy s t e m s

New Infor solution improves performance Infor, a provider of business software for mid-market customers, has announced what it believes is a new breed of business application in the form of Infor Express.

ased on a flexible implementation methodology developed through thousands of successful installations, Infor Express customers can implement at their own pace, with full activation in as fast as 90 days. The first solution, Infor Express Projects, is designed to help project-based manufacturers increase profitability and enhance customer service through fast, accurate bidding, detailed project monitoring and agile response to changes in the production cycle. Infor highlights that Infor Express Projects is the first available solution that combines robust functionality from Infor’s engineering, manufacturing and business intelligence solutions to benefit project-based manufacturers in three key areas: • Fast, accurate project bidding - comprehensive analysis of development, costing, sourcing, shipping, servicing and other complex aspects of production helps companies quickly make accurate bids on projects.

New OGL service goes live for fastener distributors OGL’s new service offering eCommerce, website design & web marketing, incorporating SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) and SEM (Search Engine Marketing) services for distributors in the fixings and fastener industry has now been launched online.

he new service is targeted at fastener distributors nationwide who wish to develop their potential online. OGL explains that its WebServices eCommerce can enhance a business’ online selling power and trading efficiency by providing automated integration of stock, order information and customer details between a website and a management software system. OGL WebServices eCommerce is also compatible with a range of stock management software systems, including the Sage range, giving a business the ability to transform its website, or develop a brand new website, into an effective, efficient eCommerce portal. Website Development forms the professional website design arm of OGL WebServices’ portfolio. OGL can design and develop a website’s design specific to a company’s needs and objectives and the development team can enhance a website with various features including animated Flash design and social media functions, as well as building the integrated framework structure of a website itself. Website Development also provides facilities including Content Management Systems (CMS), giving a simple, user-friendly editing tool with which website content can be updated and changed by the end user themselves, as well as customer portals. “We are delighted to launch the new service to the fastener industry and visitors to the site will identify that it’s a clear and effective source of information on how to optimise a website through the introduction of eCommerce, website design and also SEO and SEM,” says OGL’s marketing manager, Alex Byles.

• Project monitoring - end-to-end tracking of budget against actual throughout the entire project lifecycle, including aftermarket and service, helps meet customer expectations and maximise profitability by delivering goods on-time and on-budget. • Change management - monitoring for changes from suppliers, customers and the shop floor and assessing the impact, enables companies to quickly respond to disruptions and course-correct to meet projections and customer expectations. “At Infor we have a portfolio of industry-leading solutions, deep domain expertise and the experience gained from having more than 70,000 installed customers,” explains Greg Lashbrook, vice president, Solutions Value Engineering, Infor. “With Infor Express, the company is using its application portfolio, expertise and experience to deliver solutions that improve business performance for companies in specific industries and can be implemented quickly to generate a rapid return on investment.”

ProgressPlus software supports aerospace expansions plans Berkeley Myles Solutions has announced that Derry Precision Tools has invested in its ProgressPlus production control software to assist the privatelyowned Northern Irish company in gaining the prestigious AS9100 aerospace accreditation.

stablished in 1972, Derry Precision is a specialist precision engineering company offering machining, cleaning, spraying and a full design, as well as a test & assembly service to clients throughout Europe and the United States. Tara Jackson, partner at Derry Precision, said: “We considered several systems before settling on ProgressPlus. Feedback from existing users was reassuringly good, and we were further attracted by the user friendliness of the system. The ProgressPlus software offers enhanced ease of recording traceability information and the simplicity, clarity and flexibility of the system come in a comprehensively put together package.” Jackson continued: “Of course, Berkeley Myles are accredited Sage developers, which ensures seamless integration with our existing Sage financial software. In targeting high-traceability sectors such as aerospace, the highest quality control standards are of paramount importance to us, and we have been impressed with Berkeley Myles professionalism throughout.” Developed in 2001, ProgressPlus is designed to provide an innovative solution to help manufacturers streamline, automate and integrate the management and control of shop-floor production and administrative processes. It now has more than 1,400 concurrent users throughout the UK and Ireland. Berkeley Myles managing director Tony MacBride said: “We are delighted to be working with Derry Precision Tools in a sophisticated, stimulating and challenging sector of industry. At a time when the manufacturing industry is reported to be only slowly emerging from recession, businesses are recognising that it is the most efficient who will survive the economic conditions and go on to prosper.”

106 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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DK Business Solutions... much more than just another accounting package By Freyr Guðlaugsson, consultant, DK Software Ltd The DK Business Solutions system is a user friendly, highly integrated, all-in-one software package for all types of businesses. The range of functions on offer in the system allows organisations to manage their finances, accounts, customer relationship management (CRM), and point of sale (POS) activities on a single platform.

K has been establishing a firm foothold in the fastener distribution market through its UK distributor, Black Diamond IT Ltd. A key to the company‘s success in the market has been the system‘s inventory management module which provides key decision makers with valuable management information delivered through the module‘s powerful reporting and analytical tools.

Inventory management In an industry where stock levels, margins, and delivery times are of the upmost importance, having an inventory management system is not a luxury but a necessity. DK‘s inventory module offers a large variety of functions that allows companies to manage their inventory and get a complete overview of operations by analysing key performance indicators (KPI‘s) such as margins, stock turnover and valuation, highest selling items etc. A number of enhancements have been made specifically for the fastener industry and remain key to the recent success in the market. Those improvements have allowed for significant automation enhancements of the client‘s business processes and has in turn enabled them to streamline their workflow and manage their stock levels more effectively. The range of reports and analysis on offer in the system give key decision makers the crucial overview of their operations that is needed to be successful and are readily available with the click of a button. The system is equipped with the ability to manage multiple warehouses making it easy to see the stock around you. This allows monitoring of stock levels in a variety of warehouses from a central location and maintains the overview of the operation. Importing and exporting data from the system is fast and easy and should users prefer to manipulate data in Microsoft Excel® that can be done within seconds. This is only a fraction of what DK can do for businesses operating in the fastener and fixing market along with others such as: • Bar code management • Bill of materials (BOM) • Point of sale management (POS) • Stock transfers • Customer/vendor item code • Automated price changes • Category analysis • Numerous reports and analytical tools All the above contributes to significant time and cost efficiencies within the organisation not to mention the savings derived from keeping efficient stock levels in order.

The way forward The inventory module is only one of 11 modules in the DK system dedicated to bring your organisation together on a single platform. This includes all major functions of businesses such as sales, purchases, customers, suppliers, fixed assets, CRM, and POS, all coming together in the heart of the system, the general ledger. The system can be run either on a local machine or server, or alternatively as part of DK‘s hosted services.

“In an industry where stock levels, margins, and delivery times are of the upmost importance, having an inventory management system is not a luxury but a necessity.” It is now over a year since DK entered the UK‘s fasteners and fixings market and with growing reputation comes growing demand. In order to be able to provide their customers with quality services, DK has selected Black Diamond IT Ltd to be its official re-seller in the United Kingdom. Black Diamond IT had seen DK in action prior to becoming a re-seller and immediately saw the potential that the system has. It didn´t take a long time to reach an agreement between DK and Black Diamond when talks began as Black Diamond IT made an immediate impression on DK with its deep knowledge of the terminology and business processes in the fasteners and fixings market. But what were the key features that attracted Black Diamond to become a re-seller? Simon Underhill, an IT consultant at Black Diamond IT had this to say about the system. “The potential to streamline your businesses is incredible, DK is always developing and evolving solutions to save costs and time.”

108 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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m a n a g e m e n t + sy s t e m s

The challenges of working internationally There are plenty of good reasons to be present at the Fastener Fair in Mumbai next April. With a 1.2 billion population, average GDP growth of 7% and great opportunities in key sectors, it would be a mistake to ignore this vast market. For Jeremy Comfort and Peter Franklin, though, preparing how you make connections in a different business culture are crucial to long term success.

ecisions about what to do are difficult - find a local agent, set up a subsidiary, try for a joint venture with a local company. However, just as important is how you do it. Those vital first meetings at the trade fair or with suppliers and prospects can either be a deal maker or breaker. Successful international managers need first to reflect on or be mindful of their own cultural baggage. How do you do things at home? When you first meet a potential new supplier, on what are your first impressions based - the way they dress, the way they speak, their generosity, their frankness, their business-like behaviour. We need to build up a sort of cultural intelligence, which is

Organisation and planning Most European workplaces are structured and process-oriented. We document, quality assure, health and safety check and tick administrative boxes left, right and centre. We may not like it but most accept that this is how most organisations operate. India in some ways is even more bureaucratic - the British, after all, set up many of their bureaucracies in colonial days - but, like many other cultures, there is often another way to get things done. Who you know (using local contacts) can make all the difference. This then creates a parallel world where business can be speeded up and smoothed along through unofficial channels.

“Fast is… a relative term. India is a culture where time does not proceed in a nice logical, step-by-step way.” founded on insights into our own culture - that is your working culture. This then gives us the distance and observational skills (mindfulness) to notice how others do business in India and elsewhere. We must also never forget that our behaviour and that of our foreign partners is as much to do with individual personality as it is to culture. It’s all too easy to stereotype a whole nation because of the behaviour of just one of its citizens. There are some key areas of behaviour that we need to reflect on.

Don’t expect things to be documented and contracted so transparently if you want fast service. Fast is also a relative term. India is a culture where time does not proceed in a nice logical, step-by-step way. It rather goes in forward moving circles, sometimes taking much longer and then suddenly speeding up.

Bosses and hierarchies In the UK we like to think we are pretty chummy and not worried about status and hierarchy. I am not sure this is always the case beneath the surface.

110 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

In India respect for hierarchy is much more obvious. On one level we see it in attitudes towards the caste system but in the workplace you will probably notice how bosses are rarely contradicted or challenged by their subordinates. As an outsider, this means you need to make sure you are really speaking to the decision-maker. This respect for hierarchy means that staff can expect and even need much more supervision than we would give in the West. We pride ourselves on our independence and autonomy. Many Indians like to think of themselves as a vital cog in the wheel, not the wheel itself.

Communication and feedback An alien visiting us might think we have become obsessed with feedback - upward, downward, 360, annual performance review, customer satisfaction survey, etc. We feel we can only improve if we know how we are doing. There is also a belief that frank and honest feedback will help us to be better people. In fact, in the UK compared with some of our more direct European neighbours (notably the Dutch), we like to sugar the pill - wrap the message up in a polite and non-critical veneer. This might help us to understand the Indians and many South East Asian cultures, where “no” is rarely heard. We ask our Indian colleagues to deliver next week and we seem to have no indication that there may be a problem. They don’t like to contradict, refuse, deny, raise a problem. Their need to maintain harmony is very strong and will outweigh the need for transparency. Distance makes this even more complicated. Once we have returned from the trade fair in Mumbai, how can we tell whether the actions agreed are being carried out. We can only tell when and if the results are delivered and, in the meantime, there may be all sorts of issues which we are not aware of. Promises to deliver need to carefully investigated. You

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management + SyStemS need to give your partners the chance to revise a deadline without any loss of face - far better for you to be in the picture rather than shocked later. The qualities that we need to do business in our own cultures are still valid. We need to be open and interested in our business partners, we need to be flexible and creative in finding solutions which work for both parties, we need to be clear and transparent about what we want to achieve, we need to be able to deal with the stress and disappointments of building a new business as well as ready to celebrate the breakthroughs and successes. Some of the additional challenges of working with other cultures are:

• The ambiguity - often things are not clear. • The complexity - it takes at least a lifetime to understand another culture. • The language - English may be the international language of business but we soon discover that there is a world of difference between the English of one of our local customers and that of the head of a family-owned business in India. Being mindful of these differences can enrich our working lives - the diversity is endless and fascinating. Once we have observed and considered the differences we are then ready to identify some common best practice, which will help us to do business together.

“You need to give your partners the chance to revise a deadline without any loss of face - far better for you to be in the picture rather than shocked later.”

The Mindful International Manager by Jeremy Comfort and Peter Franklin is published by Kogan Page in December and available at all good bookstores and online at www.koganpage.com

112 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

About the authors

Jeremy Comfort founded York Associates, UK, nearly thirty years ago with the mission to develop people internationally. He has trained and coached hundreds of individuals and teams who face the ever more complex challenges of working internationally. Jeremy is responsible for creating the Developing People Internationally approach, an innovative set of training materials out of which The Mindful International Manager has grown.

Peter Franklin is a professor at Konstanz University of Applied Sciences, Germany, where his teaching and research activities concern culture and communication in international management. He also teaches on MBA programmes in China, Switzerland and the UK. Peter works with corporate clients to develop the competences described in The Mindful International Manager. He is also editor of the Internet knowledge community dialogin The Delta Intercultural Academy http://www.dialogin.com

management + SyStemS

how standards beneﬁt businesses Sue Barden of the BSI, the national standards body in the UK, highlights the role of standards in industry and argues that compliance with them could provide a competitive business advantage - and conversely how not being aware of their development may allow others to shape your market.

tandards make life safer, healthier and easier for people, organisations and enterprises all over the world. They enable and simplify communication and trade, while allowing resources to be used more efficiently. All areas in the fastenings sector can benefit from adopting standards, from global manufacturers and fillers to smaller local firms carrying out localised manufacturing work. For a business involved in any area of the manufacturing sector, being compliant with the relevant standards can save time, effort and expense, while giving added peace of mind that good practice is being followed.

purpose of fastening standards in relation to UK industry. Some of the international and all of the European standards in which FME/9 is involved are, once they are published, adopted in the UK. FME/9 is structured with three groups taking full advantage of members’ expertise in different areas:

Informal standards

FME/9/2 is responsible for reference and product standards for fastenings.

Businesses, associations or organisations can develop their own informal standards and can seek BSI’s help with this. An informal standard can be something as simple as a company having guidelines on how staff members should answer telephone calls or a trade association having a code of practice for its members. In many instances, informal standards can bring many benefits and help a business or organisation achieve its objectives.

“ Standards can be a versatile tool, but if a business chooses not to participate in their development others will shape markets for products and services that it is interested in.” How standards are created Standards are created when a genuine market or societal need has been identified and are frequently the result of needs that come directly from industry. This could be when a business develops a new product or process to which no existing standard can be applied. When this happens, businesses can work with the BSI to develop a new standard. BSI Technical committee FME/9 (Fasteners), which acts in a management capacity, is responsible for agreeing the scope and

FME/9 has overall responsibility for standards related to fastenings. FME/9/1 is responsible for standards relating to the mechanical properties of fasteners, including surface coatings.

Standards are drafted within specific rules to ensure that they can be applied consistently and (where appropriate) methods are given whereby any requirements can be consistently demonstrated. A draft version of each standard is made available for public comment, at which time anyone with an interest in the standard can express a view or make recommendation for changes. All feedback is then considered by FME/9 before the finished standard is approved and published. BSI staff coordinate the experts working within the committees to ensure that developments in the sector are embraced and reflected in new standards, and that standards are published to schedule.

Complying with standards To claim compliance with a standard all that is necessary is for its requirements to be implemented. For added credibility, some businesses choose to have their compliance independently verified by an auditor or test house.

Why should I get involved? BSI welcomes and is very keen to actively encourage approaches from those who are interested in standards work. Although it requires time and effort, there are a number of direct benefits that can be gained from participation in the development of fastener standards. Although participation in the work of FME/9 is unpaid, in some circumstances funding assistance is available when international or European travel is required. Sue Barden is programme manager for Manufacturing & Services, at the BSI. She can be contacted on +44 (0)20 8996 7773 or email: sue.barden@bsigroup.com

114 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

Starlock Push-on Fasteners

Precision Pressings

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

App l i c at i o n t e c h n o lo g y

Huntsman in the frame Working closely with Huntsman Advanced Materials, BMC has set a new benchmark in the worldwide bicycle industry by designing and producing the ‘impec’; the world’s first machine-made carbon racing bike frame which uses a high-end Araldite® resin system, to meet the most rigorous demands of racing cyclists.

n conventional frame building, racing bikes are assembled by hand in the manufacturing process, using hundreds of carbon mats. What makes the ‘impec’ different is that its unique design represents the first time that carbon tubes have been woven using a purpose-built, patented robot, guaranteeing the highest level of precision in design, removing any scope for error. BMC developed and patented new manufacturing methods and technologies for all stages of the ‘impec’ frame. This outstanding innovation provides the scope for automatically manufacturing carbon tubes that are tailored to specific loads, a technology that BMC has called Load Specific Weave (LSW). The density of the weave can be influenced by the varying speed with which the robot feeds the loom, allowing the material to be optimised to meet the specific requirements of each particular zone,

weaving carbon fiber into tubes of the exact shape, size and form required. The high-end Araldite® resin system is injected into the weaving machine’s loom to impregnate the braids. This is where good temperature management is vital; firstly to decrease the resin viscosity during the injection process and then immediately afterwards when the temperature needs to be raised quickly to speed up the cure as the ‘impec’ is extracted from the mold. In order to meet all these requirements, the resin must have a low viscosity, short curing time and good fibre impregnation capability. In addition, it must be able to satisfy the mechanical properties required to ensure that the frame is tough, stiff and able to withstand shock without developing micro-cracks. The high-end Araldite® resin system fulfils all these criteria.

Cleancon® concept No shock for Spirol Electronic components are involved in nearly half of all emergency assistance calls received by the German motorists´ association ADAC, with Vehicle breakdowns due to electronic components accounting for a hefty 48.5% of all failures in 2008. In many cases these malfunctions are caused by microscopic particulate contamination on screws.

onventional cleaning processes are virtually ineffective or even counter productive due to their negative effect on the mechanical properties of the fastening components. The Cleancon® concept developed by Arnold Umformtechnik creates a holistic solution where an innovative combination of the systematic coordination of all parameters affecting the cleanliness of components, cleanliness oriented production, micro cleaning and low-friction coating, and packaging of fastening components under cleanroom conditions allows substantially better cleanliness figures to be achieved. Arnold Umformtechnik explains that thanks to its extensive investments in engineering cleanliness it has succeeded in achieving a virtually unique level of cleanliness of its fastening components up to the time of installation by customers, without thereby degrading the mechanical properties of the components. Furthermore, precise cleanliness figures can be documented at all times by analytic measurement methods in Arnold’s inhouse laboratory. This ensures that the process has a positive impact on the operation of the individual electronic components and thereby on the operational reliability of the entire vehicle.

Spirol Industries’ high performance Series 13 self-tapping brass inserts have provided a solution for a company moulding components used in high voltage controls.

he inserts are able to withstand a high torque load as well as resistance to vibration, caused by constant low frequency switching when installed within plastic parts. The plastic housing has been designed to resist extremely high temperatures during normal operation and accordingly, the plastic composition has a high percentage of glass and mineral fillers to withstand the harsh environment. The plastic’s resistance to melting had made it exceptionally difficult for the moulder to install brass inserts using heat or ultrasonic equipment. However, without properly installed inserts, the plastic assembly failed, causing short circuits. Spirol Industries recommended that the moulder change to Series 13 selftapping inserts. The hole size in the moulded part did not require any modification to accommodate the new self-tapping inserts and it was also possible to utilise the existing X-Y fixture tooling for part positioning. Spirol’s model TA Automatic Insert Driver was installed in place of the company’s existing ultrasonic unit - almost a direct bolt-in - and production resumed immediately.

116 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

PRELOK ® We provide our customers with the right pre-applied l f

At PRELOK® we offer a complete range of evaluation test facilities and our team of dedicated specialists is available to advise you on the most appropriate solution to your fastening problems. With technical support, application engineering and processing facilities located throughout Europe and global strategic alliances, we can support your company wherever you are.

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a P P l i c at i o n t e c h n o lo g y

nelson® Stud Welding develops one stud welding head Doncasters Group Ltd, a manufacturer of precision components and assemblies has announced the availability of KSE 55 LS™, a stud welding head developed specifically for the automotive industry.

anufactured at Nelson® Stud Welding, one of Doncasters’ Fastener Systems facilities in North America, the newest addition to the group’s stud welding capabilities offers automotive manufacturers the flexibility of using one welding head for almost all welding tasks. “It is extremely important that we listen to our customers,” said Ken Caratelli, president of the fastener systems division at Doncasters. “The KSE 55 LS was developed in response to one of our automotive OEM’s need for extreme flexibility. This stud welder can easily manage an assortment of fasteners of varying shapes, where a conventional stud welding head can usually process only one stud type.” Part of the innovative new design allows stud welding to be done without a chuck. The reason is because the KSE 55 LS is equipped with a new gripper system which no longer requires the wear-prone chuck. Other features include intelligent stud feeding which ensures a fast cycle time without changing stud types, a servo-electric drive which does not require a support leg and limited interference edges which provide easy access to the body. Nelson Stud Welding highlights that the KSE 55 LS easily integrates into existing stud welding systems and does not require the replacement of other components such as feeders and switches.

P3 reduces costs for development and assembly Faster - better - more variable. These requirements are highly topical especially in economically challenging times. P3 Automation has produced an extensive modular system including a continuous product development for assembly and rivet technique.

he P3 Automation company, based in Barsinghausen, Germany, now offers a modular construction system for assembly solutions. From standardised riveting tools through stick rivet tool to robotic cells all necessary components are available for optimal assembly solutions. The selection of the required components leads to a customised conception and reduces the time for project engineering significantly. Because of the transparent cost structure the projects can be directly run within an economic framework. After preparation of concepts the implementation is done in a very short time. Due to the modular construction system the assembly facilities are very flexible and can be extended at any time. The picture shows an example for an assembly station consisting of a robotic cell, stick rivet tool with vacuum stem system and rivet presenter.

118 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

up on the roof BAS Components Ltd’s Flangeform® M6 closed end nut was designed to meet the strict parameters laid down by Ford Motor Company to ensure a watertight joint capable of supporting a roof rack, as well as meeting Ford’s stringent test requirements and helping to significantly reduce process costs.

AS Components explains that the M6 Flangeform® closed end nut uses the modified body of a 08 Flangeform® nut which means the nut to parent material performance is exceptional in terms of pull out, push through and break-off torque resistance. In addition, the rollover form created during installation provides a watertight seal between nut and parent material, while the blind thread prevents any water ingress through the threads. To achieve the goal of reducing process costs, an automatic feed system was developed to install the nuts directly into the stamped sheet metal. This unit is based in Ford’s Niehl facility in Cologne, Germany. Whilst on the Ford Fiesta and Fusion, it is used for the roof rack attachment, BAS Components points out that the Flangeform® closed end nut can be used anywhere water ingress is a potential issue, typically bulkhead, under bonnet and trunk areas. Owing to the success of the M6 fastener, BAS engineers are currently working with Ford engineers to develop a larger M8 Flangeform® closed end nut for new programmes due in 2012 and 2013.

When it comes to holding your business together, Earnest Machine knows not all fasteners are created equal. Earnest Machine is a leader in the fastener industry with a commitment to supplying high quality, high strength fasteners. Our knowledgeable sales staff is backed by in-house engineering and laboratory testing support.

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plow Bolts

Deep Nuts

Hex Flange with Serrations locking Screw

Wheel Nuts

Nylon Insert Style Serrated Flange

Direct From Factory Containers

Countersunk and Countersunk Slotted Socket Screws

Call: +44 (0) 1384 352600 for Quality Kingswinford, West Midlands for More information Email: sjs@earnestmachine.com

WWW.EarnEstMaChinE.CoM FASTENER FAIR - Stuttgart 22. - 24. February 2011 Hall 4 - Booth D-32

Thread locking

Safety rst -

is our philosophy

Thread connections with precote offer the highest security; optimum sealing; excellent temperature resistance, assembly and disassembly assistance. precote meets or exceeds all current automotive standards. Further information at www.precote.com

precote_210x145_fastenerfair2011_02_4c.indd 1

omniTECHNIK Mikroverkapselungs GmbH • München • Tel.: +49 89 14 33 81-0 omniTECHNIK Mikroverkapselungs GmbH • München • Tel.: +49 89 14 33 81-0

11.10.10 13:06

0 13:06

precot tocerp

precote_210x145_fastenerfair2011_02_4c.indd 1

60:31 0

App l i c at i o n t e c h n o lo g y

Low cost tooling with enhanced capabilities The PEM® StickScrew® System for small-screw insertion has been re-engineered with a new lower-cost StickShooter™ driver offering the capability to accommodate interchangeable nose assemblies and allow for quick tooling changeover.

he self-contained system combines the lightweight airpowered driver with ‘sticks’ of serially connected hex head screws enabling automatic screw installation without handling loose screws or driving them manually. The system can serve as a practical alternative to custom-engineered and higher-cost automated screw-driving systems. PennEngineering highlights that the StickScrew System promotes torque reliability (due to seating torque built into the screw), increased productivity, and safer screw insertion. The

system can also be up-and-running with minimal operator training. “Dozens of serially connected hex head screws are supplied in ‘sticks’ with lengths of 12 inch. Screws install by inserting the stick in the driver, advancing the stick of screws, squeezing the trigger, and placing the tip of the rotating screw into the hole. The screw is then driven home and twists off cleanly when precise seating torque is achieved.” The standard (in stock) product line includes thread-cutting screws from #2-56 to #6-32 and M3 in 400 series stainless steel. Other available types and sizes include machine screws and thread-forming screws in a variety of materials, including steel, brass, and aluminium, and in thread sizes from #0-80 to #8-32 and M1 to M4. Screws can be plated, black oxidised, hardened, and otherwise customised to meet application requirements.

TFC pushes the pedal of success TFC Europe Ltd recently came to the aid of the British Cycling Team at the World Championships in Copenhagen, Denmark. With the Championships approaching, the British team was short on Wavo springs for the bottom bracket of their competition cycles. The spring sits within a bearing that holds the pedals in position.

he British team turned to TFC to provide a quick turn-around order. The carbon steel Wavo Spring is ideal in a high force or bearing situation with restricted space, making it fit for purpose for the British Cycling Team. The British Cycle team went on to compete in one of their most successful World Championships, culminating in nine medals, eight of which are in the ten Olympic disciplines for the 2012 London Olympic Games. TFC, technical director, Brian Goode: “From round the world yachts to land speed records for steam powered vehicles, TFC have provided components for a number of world class companies, entrepreneurs, inventors and teams. We would like to think that our products have played a part, albeit a small part, in the story of their success.”

Podium place for Dow Building Solutions STYROFOAM-A insulation from Dow Building Solutions is gearing up for a winning performance at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

series of major building contractors working on the London 2012 Olympic Park are installing the distinctive blue insulation material on structures which will be seen by billions of people around the globe. STYROFOAM-A is proving popular with building designers looking for materials that help support energy efficiency targets. The A-foam range, only made by Dow in the UK, is manufactured using technology that takes CO2 from industry and uses it as a blowing agent. The resulting extruded polystyrene foam has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of less than five, meaning it helps support the Games’ sustainability commitments. Dow Building Solutions points out that all STYROFOAM products offer lightweight yet robust performance, high strength and excellent moisture resistance, making them ideal for below-ground and exposed roof-top insulation demands, or for areas where structural support is also required. “Discussions are already underway for STYROFOAM products to be used on yet more projects on the 2012 complex as construction continues,” said Jayne Law, UK and Ireland sales manager for Dow Building Solutions. “We’re confident in the ability of our products to put in just as strong a performance as the athletes when it comes to 2012 and beyond.”

120 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

Global Manufacturer & Distributor of Industrial Fastenings

TR FASTENINGS

Premier Range of Self-Clinch Fasteners Self-Clinch Fasteners

• Massive range ex-stock • Global delivery • Fast & friendly service • ISO 9001:2008 / ISO 14001:2004 • Performance data available

From studs to nuts and from panel fasteners to standoffs, the TR market leading range of self-clinch fasteners is both comprehensive and competitive and is stocked at our European headquarters. Rivet Bushes

TR has an expanding European distributor network so contact us today for all your self-clinch fastener requirements.

Stop press... TR now stock

Screws & Inserts for Plastic

Self-Clinch Concealed Head Studs and Standoffs • Threads: M3 to M5 • Lengths: 4mm to 25mm • Materials: A2 Stainless Steel & Aluminium

Micro Screws Binx Self Locking Nuts

Contact the TR European distributor team:

T: 0044 1825 747306 • E: shirleycr@trfastenings.com

TR Fastenings will be exhibiting at Fastener Fair, Stuttgart Micro Diameter and Security Fasteners

22nd - 24th February 2011 Come and visit us in Hall 4, Stand C110

FASTENER FAIR STUTTGART

A p p l i c at i o n t e c h n o lo g y

Proving Swedish quality provides a cost effective solution For some time now, Peter Fjordman, CEO at Kungälv based Appro, and Torbjörn Palmberg, CEO at Momento, manufacturers of impact sockets, have discussed the difficulties facing Swedish companies in having complete control over quality when production takes place abroad. Now the debate has moved from words to action with the launch of AppMo.

eter Fjordman explains: “The shipbuilding and energy crises of the 1970s resulted in the manufacture of fasteners moving abroad.” He adds: “The demands for low costs within industry today have created room for cheap, imported fasteners of varying quality. AppMo is our response, in partnership with Momento, to the increased risk of accidents and total costs that have resulted.” When production moved abroad, power over the selection of fasteners also shifted

from engineers and technicians to economists and buyers, says Fjordman. This resulted in low price taking precedence over technical performance. “Great distances in terms of geography, language and especially culture have also made it difficult to maintain consistently high quality,” he continues. “Unfortunately, even here in Europe, the focus has been on price rather than quality and the best overall solution. Cheap is far too often costly when it comes to optimising the manufacturing cost. The life of the product and also the safety aspect should also be weighed into the overall calculation. With this approach, we want to show companies that with the right

impact socket and screws, assembly costs can be reduced significantly,” explains Palmberg. Palmberg and Fjordman are convinced that the demand for low cost has also coincided with a fragmentation and consequently a dilution of responsibility in complex technical projects. “Many processes and suppliers are involved and tight lead-times have certainly not helped matters.” “The assemblies are not just about fasteners and impact sockets, they include everything from the design of parts to be assembled to expertise among installers. You have to have a holistic approach,” emphasises Fjordman. The many accidents within wind power over the past decade clearly illustrate this, as far as Fjordman is concerned. One of the world’s largest manufacturers of wind turbines, he notes, has set aside more than two billion kronor in warranty provisions more than half its operating profit and five percent of turnover. “That is why Momento and Appro have assumed the task of educating not just our customers, but others in our industry as well,” says Fjordman. “If the wind power producers had adopted the holistic approach we advocate, many accidents could have been avoided and large sums of money need not have been set aside in warranty provisions.” Appro follows Peter Fjordman’s leadership on these issues. The company has close relationships with other key suppliers, such as manufacturers of hydraulic tightening tools and lubricants in addition to impact sockets, in order to be able to deliver secure solutions for demanding assembly tasks. “The fact that Momento manufactures AppMo here in Sweden using Swedish steel results not only in more jobs, it allows us and our customers to feel reassured in terms of quality. In our future vision, the term MADE IN SWEDEN will once again be synonymous with first-class quality,” concludes Peter Fjordman.

122 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

AppMo comprises: AppMo Certified Quality Fasteners, which comply with a number of international standards. The fact that the screws are manufactured in Sweden means shorter lead times and lower total costs for customers. AppMo Power Impact Socket, which is manufactured in highquality Swedish spring steel and has a number of features to make tightening easier. AppMo Solid Lubrication Paste, the natural complement to this line of products. Besides protecting the threads against corrosion and thereby making any dismantling easier and cheaper, it also levels the pre-stressing forces, and the screws can be tightened with a lower torque.

Hi-Temp Nylon Patch Serving up the hottest performance in the industry!

• • • • •

Maintains torque at temps up to 500˚F (260˚C) No curing time required Reuse without damage to threads Won’t dry or shrink when exposed to chemicals Meets military, automotive, and OEM specs

1000 N. Crooks, Clawson, Michigan, 48017 USA Email: products@ndindustries.com Phone: 248.655.2503 • www.ndindustries.com

insight

Supplier of choice The last issue of Fastener + Fixing Magazine focused on the investments and infrastructure changes happening at Rivco Ltd. Two months have passed and the company is providing its valued customers with a product portfolio which will help it fulfil its aim of becoming the “supplier of choice.”

ecent developments at the Worcestershire based company have seen the introduction of a simplified logo so that customers will automatically connect Rivco with the supply of rivets, rivet nuts and quality setting tools. “The old logo was very complicated to reproduce in a consistent format,” says Steve Auld, managing director. “Also it was difficult to use it across all of our required media formats. The new logo can be used across all our company documentation and although it has been simplified it has retained the original colour purple which has been linked with Rivco since the company was established in 1994.” Steve explains that the decision to keep the purple theme running through the company was a deliberate one. “Not only is the purple Rivco logo synonymous with rivets within the industry, but by keeping the colour it underlines that whilst the company is going through a transitional period with a lot of investment and positive changes, the core of the company is exactly the same. We have a group of staff that have been with Rivco for more than 10 years and the quality of service that we have provided in the past is still a dominant feature within the company.” Throughout the re-branding process and investments Rivco’s business trend has remained very strong. “Recently we have opened a lot of new accounts, with the majority of them coming from referrals,” states Steve. “This is always pleasing to see as a company because it shows that what we are doing is obviously working and as well as keeping our current customers happy, it is also attracting new customers.” Rivco is completely focused on its aim of becoming a ‘supplier of choice’. The company is continuing to invest within its infrastructure and stock and is starting to see the benefits of these investments. “Increasing our stock not just in the standard ranges, but also in the specialised ranges has had a real benefit to the company as it enables it to offer distributors all the products they need from one source,” explains Steve. “The positive thing is that we are starting to see the benefits of schemes that we have introduced recently, which only encourages us to continue to invest in the company to make sure that we can offer customers what they require and become the ‘supplier of choice’.”

Rivco has been concentrating on increasing its stock in its rivet nut range. “Currently we are able to supply rivet nuts demanded by the automotive industry through to lower volume users where they require hand tools to place the rivet nuts, rather than air tools,” reports Matthew Roden, commercial director. He adds: “Rivet nuts are incredibly versatile products and can be used in various manufacturing processes using sheet metal. However, a problem with rivet nuts is the variety available which can make a lot of users unsure on how to use them, which is why at Rivco we have an experienced team who know how they work in different applications.” Matthew, goes into further detail and explains that a rivet nut is nothing like a normal nut product. “It is vital that the user has a lot of information to make sure that they get the correct product to go into the application. The reason for this is because a lot of applications are in box sections where the user cannot visually see the installation.” Important factors that Matthew says should be thought about before purchasing a rivet nut is the head style, body diameter and grip range. “The head style and body diameter are essential in making sure the correct rivet nut is selected. The other important thing is the grip range because if you put a wrong sized rivet nut into an application it isn’t going to hold on the blind side and won’t give the optimal strength.” As well as offering a full range of standard rivet nuts, Rivco also offers hexagon rivet nuts. “Most people think rivet nuts are only circular, but the hexagonal range is very interesting for us and we have received a lot of interest from customers,” explains Matthew. “Once a hexagon rivet nut has been installed it doesn’t turn due to its shape, which results in a more secure fixing.” Rivco has increased the range of rivet nuts it offers, including stocking various plating finishes. “We have also invested in stainless steel rivet nuts so that we can offer customers the range from stock and are looking for this product range to become a major strength,” adds Matthew. The expertise in Rivco also allows customers to select the correct tooling to make sure the rivet nut is set correctly in its application. Another example of why Rivco will become the ‘supplier of choice’.

Rivco is continuing to develop a strong and open working relationship with Alcoa Fastening Systems, by placing forward purchase commitments to increase the availability of Huck® products from stock. “We are delighted to be an official Huck® distributor and see the sale of Alcoa Fastening System products as a key strength to the development of Rivco,” states Steve. “We have access to the full range of Huck® products, Alcoa’s engineering expertise, as well as the approved range of Alcoa setting tools.” Steve adds: “Rivco is developing a very reliable reputation for providing setting tools for both sale and hire, and we are also able to provide a complete repair service for customers.”

124 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

Rivco A4 ad(11-10):Layout 1 05/11/2010 14:03 Page 1

The final piece of the jigsaw to fall into place

ice o h c f o pplier u s t r e s t The nu

We supply . . .

Unit 10 Finepoint Business Park Kidderminster Worcestershire DY11 7FB T: +44 (0) 1562 513910 F: +44 (0) 1562 69666 E: sales@rivco.co.uk W: www.rivco.co.uk

November 2010

nuts, Washers & locking Systems This issue’s Focus On is dedicated to Nuts, Washers & Locking Systems. Suppliers of products within this market sector have provided details of their capabilities along with up to date contact and product information.

Coming up in the next issue…

Sheet metal

Contact Claire Lake Tel: +44 (0)1727 739 150 email: claire.lake@fastenerandfixing.com

Aerotight Manufacturing

Allbolts

Aerotight® all-metal self locking nuts

For several years we have manufactured self locking nuts of many kinds including nylon insert. A lot of the allmetal self locking nuts are now obsolete but we still are asked to produce a wide variety for many applications. We are also asked to make nuts in a wide variety of materials such as high tensile steel, titanium, bronze hastelloy etc.

Aerotight Manufacturing offers the time-proven solution to vibration problems. The Aerotight nut has built a reputation for quality and reliability over many years, with a well-proven design that has become established throughout industry. It is the leading all-metal stainless steel self-locking nut and is also available in brass, aluminium or steel. There are no vulnerable inserts to be affected by heat or oil and it is re-useable, with the self-locking function remaining effective. In both its steel and stainless forms it can be used up to 300°C. The Aerotight nut will remain in position whether tightened down or not, providing the locking element is engaged, and does not have to achieve recommended torque to be effective. No additional parts are required for the Aerotight to function so no special tools are needed. All stainless steel bar used in the manufacture of the M5 to M20 range achieves an ultimate tensile strength of 700N/ mm2. The nut is available in most thread forms, including Metric, UNC, UNF, BA, BSW and BSF. Customer specials - for example thin types - are available to order. Aerotight Manufacturing is part of the Apex Stainless Fasteners Organisation.

tel: +44 (0) 1788 537 979

www.apexstainless.com

We hold a stock of stainless locking nuts but most other materials are made to order. Two to three weeks is a normal delivery time providing material is available. Our range of sizes starts about M3 and we have made as large as M52. Small quanities are also catered for providing a comprehensive service to the fastener industry.

tel: +44 (0) 1379 872 910

126 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

Fax: +44 (0) 1379 872 915

FocuS on nutS, WASherS & locKing SySteMS Bülte

Crest Industrial

FlAt Anti-loSS WASherS

Crest Industrial Ltd is a leading supplier of all types of All Metal Self Locking Nuts based in the East Midlands. We offer a wide range of sizes, strength grades and finishes available from stock. Stock sizes range from M4 - M36 and ¼” to 1” Strength grades Metric Class 8 and 10 and SAE grade B and C In hexagon and hexagon flange types. All our Zinc plated stock complies with RoHS and ELVD requirements. In addition we are able to offer a wide range of specialist finishes to meet your specific needs. We also supply a wide range of associated fastener products including hexagon flange bolts in 10.9ht, hexagon and Serrated hexagon flange nuts, toothed washers and cage nuts.

neW DiMenSionS Don’t lose your washers during assembly

Our washer can easily be slid onto the thread where it is retained by the specially designed lips, helping to speed up, and reduce the cost of assembly. “Flat”: the thickness of the washer varies from 0.5 to 1.0 mm. “Anti-loss”: to remove the washer from the screw you will have to unscrew the screw from the washer. It will be necessary to use the clearance hole sizes indicated in the catalogue in order to be certain of total locking and sealing. Flat anti-loss washers are available in the following sizes: M10, M12 and M16 + “New”: M5, M6, M8. The standard material is natural nylon (Polyamide). Nylon washers insulate against moisture and electricity and resist corrosion, abrasion and most chemicals. These washers can also be manufactured in other materials such as: PE, PP, POM, black Nylon… and feed quality or more flexible on request.

www.bulte.com

email: bulte@bulte.com

With a large information database we can identify, locate and supply fastener parts which meet or exceed the original equipment manufacturers specifications particularly within the automotive sectors. We believe customer satisfaction is paramount and we are prepared to do whatever is necessary to achieve this. For more information, enquiries or to receive a catalogue please contact us.

tel: +44 (0) 115 965 4100

email: sales@crestindustrial.com

DS Fasteners

Fabory

Stover Nuts • Nylon Insert Nuts Cleveloc Nuts • Castle Nuts Phillidas • Vargal HDG • Stainless Steel

locking with conﬁdence

DS Fasteners Products Ltd was established in 1976 as a specialist self locking nut supplier.

Flange Bolts Serrated Flange Bolts

We set out to stock a large range of the more unusual sizes and pitches with the emphasis on higher grades also. This allows us to reduce lead times and get orders delivered quicker. Our main stock items are the Stover nut (DIN 980V), Nylocs (DIN 985/982) and also Flange nuts (plain & serrated) and Stover Flange (DIN 6927) Nyloc Flange (DIN 6926). These are available in most finishes and in Grades 8, 10, 12. (Metric & imperial). To further compliment the range we also stock Serrated Flange Bolts (DIN 6921) in a range of sizes. We are also increasing our stock of Stainless Steel (A2 & A4) parts again in the fine pitch and the more unusual sizes. Recently added to the stock is a range of Philidas nuts. We have also added Hot Dipped Galvanized Nylocs to our range. If it’s a locking nut you require, with our knowledge and stock we are sure to be able to help.

For locking a threaded joint, engineers make use of products that can be grouped according to the cause of possible loosening and their intended action. If the problem concerns only embedding and creep then products such as conical spring DIN 6796, 2093 and NFE contact washers can compensate for the reduced clamping length. In case of self-loosening as a result of internal loosening torque and transversal displacements, prevailing torque nuts with nylon insert DIN 985, 982, 6926, all metal DIN 980, 6925 and SNEP are applied, having the advantage to lock against loss and the disadvantage that they do not secure clamping force. Additionally, other categories of locking products are needed to lock successfully against rotation, including: • Flanged bolts/nuts with Tensilock and Ripp serrations • Some types of adhesives • Nord-Lock and Schnorr washers. All of the above items belong to FABORY’S product range. FABORY, international fasteners and tools distributor, boasts over 100,000 items enabling customers to adopt whatever locking solution is necessary. For further enquiries, or to request a copy of FABORY’S technical brochure Locking Confidence In Threaded Joints, please contact:

tel: +44 (0) 1842 763 000

www.dsfasteners.co.uk

tel: +44 (0) 121 556 3474

email: sales.faboryuk@fabory.com

www.fastenerandfixing.com

127

FocuS on nutS, WASherS & locKing SySteMS Freeway Washer Ltd

Icon Fasteners

Established for over 60 years in North America, Freeway Washer now has manufacturing sites in Canada, England and the USA, plus established supply routes out of the Far East. The facility in Keighley, England product offering includes Din standard washers but specialises in Lock washers, Double Coil lock washers and pressed washers.

Icon are proud to be associated with Philidas Limited in stocking their range of self locking nuts, Philidas Industrials, Turrets and MKV’s are all available on a next day delivery service. We can reserve stock for a call off or work to your schedules. This coupled with Icons extensive range of Grd 8 Grd 10 and Grd 12 DIN 934 in self-colour, bright zinc plated and galvanised make us unrivalled in locking and standard nuts. Not forgetting our range of DIN 985 course and fine pitch and DIN 982 nylon insert nuts.

Stocked washers to Din 7980, 127B, 6797, 6798, B5, are readily available but we also manufacture Double Coil lock washers, both regular and tangleproof from our own in house wire drawing facility, allowing quick turn around times, substantially better than the industry average. Pressed washers are manufactured in line with customer’s specification/drawings, being used in safety critical applications for the automotive industry. With a significant drive to expand further in to the European market place, the goal is to build on the reputation for quality and customer service to offer the total solution for washer requirements for all different market segments.

To complement our Range of 10.9 and 12.9 bolting we offer DIN 6916 C45 through hardened washers, again in self colour and bright zinc plated. To complete our extensive stocks of DIN 931/933 galvanised bolting, we offer a complete range of DIN 125 form A washers.

Further information can be obtained at our website or on the contact number below.

tel: + 44 (0) 1535 610 600

www.freewaywasher.com

tel: +44 (0) 1902 491122

email: icon@icon-fasteners.co.uk

Inoxdadi SRL

J Cooke Engineering

INOXDADI S.R.L. is one of the most important producers of stainless steel and brass nuts, washers and fasteners certified ISO 9001.

Bar turned nut Manufacturer

For the great experience developed on the field of nuts for over 30 years, INOXDADI S.R.L. can boast a wide range of items produced in various grades of stainless steel such as: AISI 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 316Ti, 321, 309, 310, 314, 904L, Duplex - W. 1.4462 - W. 1.4529, W. 1.4923, Monel 400, Hastelloy, Titanium besides aluminium, brass, steel and zinc plated.

We manufacture specials to customer drawings and in most materials including, brass, steel, stainless steel, aluminium, phosphor bronze and aluminium bronze. With two manufacturing sites, one in Hertfordshire the other in the West Midlands, we are also capable of producing turned spacers and washers.

Upon request, all the items produced can be provided with certificate of chemical test.

The following give a brief example of the parts we manufacture/ stock. For further details contact our sales team.

“INOXDADI S.R.L.” is specialist in production of: • shear nuts • lock insert nuts • cage nuts • domed cap nuts • hex nuts • wing nuts • pressed insert nuts • castellated nuts • weld nuts • flat washers • flange nuts • spring washers • square nuts • special nuts and washers

HEX NUTS SQUARE NUTS SHEAR NUTS SLOTTED NUTS CASTLE NUTS WASHERS - TURNED SPACERS RIVET BUSHES MANIFOLD NUTS

tel: +39 (0) 363 914959 56

tel: +44 (0) 1462 742 888

J.Cooke Eng Ltd is the leading UK bar turned nut manufacturer established for over 30 years.

www.inoxdadi.com

Parts can be delivered on our own transport, carriers or exported to any European or worldwide destination.

128 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

email: sales@jcooke.co.uk

FocuS on nutS, WASherS & locKing SySteMS Martyn Price

Navgrah Fastners Pvt. Ltd.

Not many other fastener stockists can boast that they have M1 to M110 DIN 934 full nuts on the shelf. West Midlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fastener specialist Martyn Price can.

We are premier manufacturer of Washers made from Stainless Steel, Brass, Copper or any other stampable material from India. We are manufacturer of Stainless Steel Hooks (Haken) (Fix & Vario) various types, Adapter blech, Winkels, Connectors and other solar panel mounting parts as per customer requirements and drawings.

For over 35 years Martyn Price have built a solid reputation as a first tear supplier of nut products, these obviously include the standard sizes but they are arguably better known for their incredible range of non standard full and locking nut parts. All of which are marketed under their well known Allgrip brand. Based in Stourbridge they are well placed to offer any surface finish or secondary operation, with a rapid turnaround. These parts are available in grade 8, 10 and 12 along with both fine pitch and left hand thread. Furthermore, Martyn Price Fasteners distribute arguably the largest range of washers in the UK; these are also available in both metric and imperial. The foundation of this extensive range includes those hard to source parts including double coil and load indicating washers. Martyn Price Ltd FASTENER PEOPLE who have the stock and knowledge to solve every requirement NO MATTER HOW UNUSUAL. tel: +44 (0) 1384 424767

email: sales@martynprice.co.uk

Our production team is rich with experience of washer and solar items manufacturing work hard to meet any urgencies. In house tool room facilities help us to produce tools faster to respond to our customers quickly. Our extensive Tool Stock and skilled work force help us to supply at committed time. Our rigorous quality testing do not allow any discrepancy to pass through and this leads to full customer satisfaction. Our product range includes, Flat washers according to DIN 125 -433 -9021 -440 -1440 -7349 -436 -93 -463, Conical Washers 2093-6096, NFE 25 513-514, BS 4320 -3410, Penny washers, MS 15795, NAS 620C, AN960C, Commercial washers and any other special washers as per drawing. We are an ISO 9001-2008 company. Our main aim is to supply quality products with timely delivery at competitive prices. Fax: +91 260 237 0700

email: dakshesh@navgrahfastners.com

ND Jig & Gauge

Nord-Lock

Square plate Washers, round Washers Standard & non Standard

NORD-LOCK is committed to the manufacturing of a superior securing system designed for bolted joints. Our aim is to provide a secure and safe bolt locking system that is not affected by any kind of vibration or dynamic loads.

With over 60 years in the manufacture of washers, N D JIG & GAUGE has the knowledge and expertise to suit your requirements. We hold extensive stocks of standard black washers, square plates, through hard washers, taper washers and stainless steel washers.

The outside of the washers has radial teeth, which grip and seat the mating surfaces when the Nord-Lock Washer is tightened. In addition, the inside of the washer forms a wedge, making the pitch greater than the thread pitch of the bolt.

As manufacturers we have the capability for non-standard washers, special nuts and pressings at our factory in Wednesbury and with this, we can turnaround special square plates and round washer requirements in days. We have extensive stocks of raw material whether it is mild steel, stainless steel, copper, brass or an exotic alloy specials are also held in stock for call off. The standard washer ranges we stock are, BS 4320 form E, F & G. BS 3410 Table 7 & 8. BS 4395 thru hardened washers, square plates from 40mm sq x 3mm thick upto 150mm sq x 25mm thick. Specials made to order, self colour, zinc plated, hot dip galvanised, sheradized and dacromet. Phone your enquiries to our sales office direct, for immediate response and for more information on our products and services please visit our website. tel: + 44 (0) 121 556 0824

www.ndjig.com

The washer is mechanically keyed in place and allows movement only across the face of the cams. Any attempt by the nut/bolt to rotate loose is blocked by the wedge effect of the cams. Any increase of tension makes the nut/bolt self-locking. Using the wedge-locking principle, nuts/bolts cannot come loose when exposed to vibration/dynamic loads. However, the wedge lock nut can be removed easily with the use of a wrench. The washer can be re-used - always with full locking effect. While most locking devices rely on friction, the Nord-Lock washer uses tension to lock the joint. Therefore, the locking function is not lost by lubrication.

tel: +44 (0) 1980 847 129

email: enquiries@nord-lock.co.uk

www.fastenerandfixing.com

129

FocuS on nutS, WASherS & locKing SySteMS Owlett-Jaton

Prelok

Owlett-Jaton is the UK’s largest supplier of fasteners, ironmongery, and hardware to the distributor and merchant trade. Our central 130,000 sq. ft. hub warehouse is the largest single site distribution centre in the industry. Coupled with next day delivery to almost anywhere in the UK, we offer an unparalleled ex-stock, nationwide delivery service.

With almost 50 years experience in the field Prelok is the European market leader for pre-applied locking, sealing and dry film lubricant solutions for fasteners and threaded components. We have strategic global alliances and are constantly working in partnership with material manufacturers to develop new products and processes, which offer innovative jointing solutions to meet the ever changing industry demands.

Our range of nuts includes DIN 934 Full Nuts, Lock Nuts, DIN 982 and 985 Nylon Insert Nuts, and are available in Self Colour, CR3 Zinc, Zinc and Yellow, and Galvanised. We also offer Full Nuts, and Nylon Insert Nuts in A2 and A4 Stainless Steel. DIN 934 are also available from stock in guaranteed Grade 8 and Grade 10, standard and fine pitch. To compliment our range of nuts, Flange Nuts, Weld Nuts, Pronged Tee Nuts, Wing Nuts, Dome Nuts and Self Locking Nuts are also available.

The primary advantages of these technologies include the elimination of any secondary locking and sealing systems such as lock nuts or washers; the replacement of hand applied tapes or gaskets and controlled patch positioning instead of difficult to target liquid adhesives or sealants. Our flexible and high technological processing capabilities ensure we offer a complete service, exceeding the high quality expectations of our customers.

Just one call gives you immediate access to a wealth of experience and our complete product range - it’s the ultimate one-stop-shop.

• From miniature items for mobile communication to M30 bolts for bridge construction, we have the ability to process a vast range of components • Ability to work with a wide range of materials including stainless steel and non-ferrous materials • Approved by a majority of OEM’s and have been recognised with a number of industry approvals and standards • Complete fastener finishing service including a comprehensive range of corrosion resistant surface treatments

tel: +44 (0) 1785 811 300

tel: + 44 (0) 1902 600 000

A comprehensive range of imported manufactured washers are available from stock in Self Colour, CR3 Zinc, and Galvanised finishes. Washers in A2 and A4 Stainless Steel are also available.

Fax: +44 (0) 1785 819 699

www.prelok.com

Premier Washers Ltd

Staytite Hardlock Nuts

premier Quality and Service @ premier Washers ltd

Staytite has been dedicated to meeting all your fastening requirements for over 30 years. Our unrivalled knowledge, industry experience and outstanding customer service has come to be regarded as the best in the industry.

A Midlands based manufacturer, with comprehensive industry knowledge, supplying washers and pressings to the automotive, construction, white goods and other industries. An extensive range of machines including CNC and high speed coil fed presses enable us to supply high and low volumes with production capabilities from outside diameter of 6mm up to 150mm, in thickness from 0.2mm up to 10mm. We can supply our products in a large range of materials including mild steel, carbon, brass, stainless steel, copper and other exotic metals and in a wide variety of finishes including heat treatment, grinding, machining and surface treatments. In house toolroom facilities enable us to produce tools quickly in response to customers ever-changing needs. An excellent service and competitive prices, supported by our registration to BS EN ISO 9001:2008 places Premier Washers in a position to fully satisfy the requirements of all of our customers.

tel: +44 (0) 1902 307 121

email: sales@premierwashers.co.uk

Our experience makes us the premier supplier of All Metal Self Locking Nuts. We are the number 1 trusted source for both technical advice and extensive range of solutions to the age old problem of sourcing the right nut for the right application at the right price, not to mention availability from stock. Our extensive range of All Metal Lock Nuts starts from the most basic deformed thread type, to the complete engineered solution offered by the use of the Hardlock Nut. We have in depth experience of advising customers within the Automotive, Construction, Distribution, Railway and White Goods industries. For help sourcing and specifying the correct All Metal Lock Nut for the relevant application, please call 01494 462322 or email distributors@staytite.com where one of our experienced team will be happy to assist. tel: +44 (0) 1494 462 322

130 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

email: distributors@staytite.com

FocuS on nutS, WASherS & locKing SySteMS Threadrive Components

TR Fastenings Ltd

threadrive components hold dedicated stockholding of nord-lock for your requirements here in the uK.

The Binx® all metal thread-locking Nut is a unique TR Fastenings product which has developed into the industry standard in applications where vibration or stress would otherwise promote problems.

nord-lock Wheel nut The Nord-Lock wheel nut safely secures wheels by maintaining high clamping force even under extreme operating conditions. Each nut incorporates a pair of captivated washers with cam faces on one side, with a cam angle ‘α’ greater than the thread pitch ‘β’. On the opposite side there are radial teeth. When the wheel nut is tightened, the teeth of the Nord-Lock washers grip and lock the mating surfaces, allowing movement only across the cam faces. Any rotation of the wheel nut is blocked by the wedge effect of the cams.

nord-lock bolt securing system

Strong - The Binx® locking mechanism acts on both the effective diameter and the pitch of the thread, countering the threat posed by vibration and stress. Compact - The Binx® locking mechanism is incorporated into a nut head of no greater height than that of a standard nut and is ideal for use in restricted places. Versatile - The Binx® is all metal and can be confidently used in environments containing oil, grease and other contaminants. Reuseable - The Binx® torque resistance is maintained after many applications.

The Nord-Lock bolt securing system does not use traditional techniques to secure the fastener, and yet is a safe locking system. Nord-Lock’s proven wedge-locking method meeting DIN25201 utilises tension instead of friction to secure bolted joints, making it superior to traditional methods. Threadrive Components, holding dedicated stocks of Nord-Lock making sourcing and supply quick and easy.

As well as the Binx® nut, TR expertise can provide other thread-locking solutions from simple lock washers through to specially developed thread-locking products.

For further product details please contact Marco Pillow on the below details.

For detailed dimensional technical information on the Binx® Nut and 1000’s of other fasteners and components, please contact us.

tel: +44 (0) 1268 288 880

tel: +44 (0) 1825 766 676

www.threadrive.co.uk

Convenient - The Binx® is readily available in a wide range of sizes and in a variety of materials, ranging from mild steel to stainless steel.

www.trfastenings.com

Vöhrs GmbH & Co. KG

Washer Factory Ltd

innovative, ﬂexible, competent words which will lead you to our company!

We are the premier manufacturer of non-standard washers and light pressings, offering a quick turnaround in steel, stainless, copper, brass and other exotic materials, especially duplex stainless and nickel alloys.

With 50 years experience, quality products, and professional service, we have become one of the leading international manufacturers of nuts and stampings. Whether made out of ordinary steel, high-grade steel, bright or standard finish surfaces - we offer the perfect solution for all your requirements. Our progressive and flexible production allows us to manufacture exactly to your specifications so you get the product you need with no compromises! Nuts and Stampings Forms: square nuts and rhombic nuts (in flat or profiled versions), hexagonal nuts, rectangular nuts (thread in centre or one-sided, one or more threads), special parts (diverse special shapes, f. ex. contact nuts for the electrical industry with riffle, waffle-type and/ or lifted edges. Also oval nuts and pointed nuts for different areas of application). Materials: steel, high-grade steel, brass, aluminium, in flat or profiled versions. Surfaces: bright/blank, any kinds of electroplated coatings, thermally zinc-coated (TZN), Geomet, Dacromet, other finishes on demand. Material Thickness: 5mm x 1.3mm - 40mm x 8mm, length 6mm over 200mm. Threads: M2.5 - M12, 1/8”-5/16”, thread in center or one-sided. tel: +49 (0) 2359 7011

www.voehrs.de

We strive in all that we do to maximise customer satisfaction. Technical advice is offered freely, where required and we believe in treating customers fairly so if we know that a standard washer is available we will say so. Our production team has many years of washer making experience. Whilst traditional methods of manufacture are employed, our flexible approach, extensive tool stock and skilled work force mean that we can offer a fast turn around. Having a national supplier base we are able to quickly source most materials (including non-metallics). Products can be supplied in any surface finish ranging from simple zinc to organic plating, they can be heat treated or machined. We currently supply to a diverse customer base across many markets including construction, automotive and white goods. In many cases our products are far from the standard perception of a washer, take a look at our web site to see some examples of what we can do! We have no minimum manufacturing quantity or minimum charge so for a friendly fast and reliable service supported by a quality product please contact us. tel: +44 (0) 1902 865 777

www.washer-factory.com

www.fastenerandfixing.com

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new model from FAr FAR, a manufacturer of blind rivets, threaded inserts and riveting tools, has introduced the new fully automatic machine Model AU100 which replaces the previous Model AU96 that had been very successful in the market.

AR explains that the AU100 is a major improvement in terms of quality and reliability. The AU100 is less bulky as its components are assembled in a more compact and accessible way. It is also lighter and equipped with a Siemens PLC ignition switch on the front panel. “The riveting machine AU100 is a further example of the quality and constant evolution of FAR technology.”

Milwaukee has the power new generation of

drills from Fein

Milwaukee, a manufacturer of heavy-duty electric power tools, has unveiled a new generation of high voltage lithium-ion batteries featuring DPM (Digital Power Management) to control temperature, charge and discharge and to improve durability with cut-out protection and individual cell monitoring.

FEIN presents three new BOP series drills, which are suited to drilling, countersinking and thread cutting and were developed to machine metal, wood, plastic and composite materials.

he new M28 lithium-ion cordless system is completely cross compatible with Milwaukee’s existing V28 range and provides professional power tool users with an improved battery pack with advanced electronics. Milwaukee also points out that its M28 range offers exceptional performance in extreme cold or heat conditions, with new products including the HD28PD percussion drill and the HD28HX 3 mode SDS hammer with Fix-tec chuck. 12% more powerful, 10% more compact and also lighter than the V28 percussion drill, the new HD28PD percussion drill is ergonomic in design thanks to its 4-Pole frameless motor providing 85Nm and 0-450/ 0-1,800RPM. It also features a 13mm full metal Rohm chuck with carbide jaws to ensure maximum bit retention. “L-shaped in design for perfect balance and control, and featuring Fix-tec for quick and easy changing of complete chucks allowing for accurate drilling in wood or steel without adapters and without loss of power or efficiency, the HD28HX’s 28 volt high power motor gives corded tool performance thanks to the high quality, large capacity M28 battery packs.” Key features include a heavy duty keyless chuck of 1.5mm - 13mm, roto-stop for chiselling, a metal gearbox for exact seating of bearings and gears and block construction for exact seating of bearings and maximum robustness. The tools have been rigorously tested according to Milwaukee’s stringent programme, and are guaranteed to be ‘nothing-but-heavy-duty’ and come with a three year warranty.

he new FEIN drills in the BOP generation replace the 630 and 636 series. They are designed for various applications and add to the extensive range of FEIN rotary drills, hammer drills and core drills. The FEIN BOP 6 is a single-speed drill for diameters of up to 6mm in steel. With a high speed of up to 4,000rpm and a high torque, FEIN says it enables efficient drilling in metal construction and when working in wood or plastic. The FEIN BOP 10 is designed for on-site assembly work. FEIN points out that the compact drill has a torque of 9Nm making it one of the most powerful tools in its class. The single-speed drill is also suitable for making holes in steel with a diameter of up to 10mm and thread cuts up to M6. “Thanks to its ﬂat and slim design and practical width across corners, you can even use the FEIN BOP 10 in narrow spaces and corners.” The FEIN BOP 10-2 is a universal two-speed drill which FEIN says has an ideal speed range for steel and stainless steel with a diameter of up to 10mm. The mechanical speed reduction in the first gear ensures high torque, and with a torque of 20Nm the drill is suited to a number of applications and materials, even thread cutting up to M10.

A fuel powered cordless rooﬁng nailer system Paslode® is introducing Model CR175C a fuel powered cordless roofing nailer system which it says offers professional remodelers a powerful, lightweight and compact tool that helps increase productivity, reduce jobsite clutter and project downtime, and increase profits.

ike other fuel powered cordless tools, the Paslode roofing nailer drives nails sequentially by pushing the tool down and then pulling the trigger. Paslode points out that the tool is easy to use, drives two nails per second and holds 120 nails per coil. Also, by design, the Paslode cordless roofing nailer contributes to precise nail placement, which helps eliminate issues of high nailing. Additionally it features an adjustable depth of drive which reduces and often eliminates shingle blow-through.

The tool has a single door magazine for easy loading, skid guards and a belt hook. It comes with an adjustable shingle guide for precise nail placement and has a soft grip handle for greater control. The Paslode cordless roofing nailer system, Model CR175C, comes with a convenient backpack and one Roofer’s Choice™ Fuel + Nail Pack, as well as a safety tether, rechargeable battery, charger and safety glasses. It also features a one year full coverage warranty and five year limited warranty.

132 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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New ratchet screwdriver range Wera has added ratchet screwdrivers to its range of tools that allow not only for precise but also for powerful work, due to a fine-tooth design that allows a minimal return angle of only 8 degrees.

he new ratchet screwdrivers also offer a maximum torque of up to 50Nm which ensures, according to the manufacturer, much greater strength in comparison to conventional ratchet screwdrivers. An easy-to-operate and ergonomic reverse direction switch enhances working speeds and there is a lockable neutral position that allows fine adjustment work to be carried out. The ratchet function can also be disabled in this way should it not be required when tightening a screw. The new ratchet screwdrivers are also provided with the Kraftform handle, thus ensuring that work is done in an ergonomically safe way,

with the handle featuring a non-roll feature. Wera points out that the range satisfies the individual requirements prevailing in a host of applications. The new ratchet screwdrivers, for instance, are available as hand-held models with ‘Rapidaptor’ quick-release chuck for bits or as holders for Vario double-ended blade profiles. The ‘Kraftform Kompakt’ product line that can be used either in hand or power tool applications is supplemented by two additional tools: Kraftform Kompakt 60 RA with 16 bits and Kraftform Kompakt 27 RA with six bits integrated into the handle. “This means that the user has a number of tools available in a very compact form that can also be easily carried to the next job.”

Designed to work as hard as you do Metabo (UK) Ltd, based in Southampton, UK, has recently introduced the BS 18 LTX QUICK PowerExtreme, which it says is the lightest and most powerful drill/driver in its class.

he PowerExtreme battery pack coupled with a new innovative 4-pole motor delivers unbeatable power output, reports Metabo. The tool is also perfectly suited to the needs of carpenters and joiners who will appreciate the new ‘Metabo QUICK’ change system. Distinguished by its ergonomic and compact design, other key features that Metabo points out include the new innovative adjustable torque clutch system, now with both mechanical and electrical control, overheat motor cut off, and the unique ‘impuls’ function (boost pulse switch) for dealing with difficult screws. The BS 18 LTX QUICK PowerExtreme comes supplied with QUICK chuck, bit holder, 2 x li-ion PowerExtreme 3.0Ah batteries, air-cooled charger and carry case. “This is a tremendously strong machine designed to work as hard as you do. We are also the only manufacturer to offer an extended three year warranty on all machines, chucks, chargers and even batteries. Customers just need to register online within four weeks of purchase to qualify.”

tel. + 44 (0) 1494 462 322 www.staytite.com

Staytite Nuts

Stover Nuts

Hardlock Nuts

dedicated to meeting all your fastening needs

...unique fastener solutions

7147A Advert Layouts.indd 3

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p r o D u ct S

‘no catches’ in goebel toggle program The Goebel program of Toggles presents an extensive selection of high quality tension and quick-locking mechanisms in all key materials, including aluminium, zinc plated steel, and A2 or A4 high grade stainless steels.

very large range of different Toggle types, available from Goebel’s stockholding in Erkrath or via its distribution outlets across Europe, covers the most diverse tension and quick locking mechanism requirements for virtually all industries. These include large and small snap fasteners, whether with straight or curved baseplates, with spring protection or without. There are simple, not adjustable catches for straightforward applications, like smaller transportation crates or linings. Alternatively there are heavy-duty snap fasteners suited for high security loads found on a range of agricultural machinery or on roof luggage carriers. The very stable exzenterverschlüsse or eccentric toggle, offers the further advantage of the adjustability as well as high security. This adjustable catch is available in different sizes, widths and duties. The 701-703S series is available in high-grade steel A4, as well as zinc plated steel: the stainless steel version being particular resistant to the harsh environmental conditions found in maritime applications. Snap fasteners generally offer the advantage that they are simple to open and close. Where safety devices are required spring loaded versions provide a self adjusting feature that can compensate for variations in the closure tolerance. Additional protection against accidental unlocking or opening, particularly in applications experiencing high tension, is achievable using toggles that have a locking possibility by accommodating a split

pin. Additional security against unauthorised access can be achieved by using a padlock. This feature is available on toggles with our without spring loading. Catches with different rivet hole locations are available. Depending upon the application catches can be secured by rivets or screws and Goebel is able to offer a range of fasteners suitable for the installation of the toggles. All of the toggles described in the catalogue are available from Goebel’s main stockholding in Erkrath, near Dusseldorf or by arrangement from its subsidiaries and distributors throughout Europe. In common with all the product ranges offered by Goebel, stringent quality controls are applied to the entire Toggles range so that customers can be assured of the safety and effectiveness of the catches. In addition to traction, dimensional and functionality tests, plating thicknesses are checked and sample products undergo harsh environment simulation using a Kesternich SO2 chamber. Goebel is also able to offer special production to the customer’s design or samples and the company is pleased to offer proposals for customised solutions. Through a combination of many years experience and direct involvement in all production processes Goebel is able to guarantee a short development time even for complicated catches. CAD designs, samples for approval and rapid supply are all designed to ensure Goebel and its customers are in a “win-win” relationship.

PROTECTION & FASTENERS Rapid product search

Catalogue free on request

www.bulte.com ®

Exe-Fastener-Fixing-2010_112x155-DE_salon-logo-FF2011.indd 1

BÜLTE GmbH Kunststofferzeugnisse Carl-Sonnenschein Str.22, D- 59348 Lüdinghausen Tel : 02591 / 91 94-0 - Fax : 02591 / 59 77 bulte@bulte.com

28/10/10 14:40

Toggles & Excenters R CHLÖSSE KAPPENS S G L E T O G E S U I L L È R G R E N O DE PALANCA CIERRES

Visit us at

FA S T E N E R

STUT TGA

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22.-24. Febr uary 2011 Hall 4 - Stan d no. C20

DOWNLOAD

www.goebel-schrauben.de 250 - 24 50 00 X: +49-(0) 211 rauben.d e 00 - 0 / TELEFA 211 - 24 50 www.go ebel-sch e / Internet: TELEFON : +49-(0) bel-schr auben.d e-mail: info@goe

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THE STOCK SUPPLIER • 24 - 48 HOURS SHIPMENT Head office Goebel GmbH Ludenberger Str. 28-30 40699 Erkrath Tel: +49-(0)211-24-5000 0 Fax: +49-(0)211-24-5000 250

w w w . b l i n d n i e t e . o r g w w w . g o e b e l - s c h r a u b e n . d e w w w . g o e b e l - s c h r a u b e n . d e

p r o D u ct S

gap-ﬁlling bonding within seconds Mind the gap! Anyone who has travelled on London Underground will be familiar with this safety notice. But ‘minding the gap’ was also something that people had to do when using instant adhesives. With Loctite 3090, Henkel says it has now developed the first gap-filling instant adhesive, thus considerably expanding the range of uses.

nstant adhesives can help to get quick results in many industrial manufacturing applications. Moreover, for maintenance and repair jobs, they often provide an economical alternative to expensive repairs or replacement parts. However, since conventional cyanoacrylate-based products generally have low viscosity and no gap-filling properties, they can only be used to bond close-fitting parts. Henkel says that its Loctite 3090 is a new two-component instant adhesive which not only offers the same high bond strength and fast cure, but can also fill gaps. This vastly broadens the application range of instant adhesives, by offering a capability to fill gaps up to 5mm wide. Loctite 3090 is also suitable for almost all materials, including metals, most plastics, rubber and ceramics. Even porous substrates such as wood, paper and cork can be reliably bonded with it. Henkel points out that users also benefit from the significantly improved handling. The transparent ’instant adhesive’ is a high-viscosity gel, which allows easier application to vertical surfaces - without dripping. Another new feature is the convenient 2-chamber syringe packaging enabling precise and clean application. “Unlike one-component systems, Loctite 3090 does not depend on the moisture in the air to cure, but has an additional activator. The two components are dispensed into an integrated static mixer, which ensures that curing is triggered within the defined timeframe, regardless of moisture or temperature, and that the components are always mixed in the right ratio. The adhesive has a working time of 90 to 180 seconds after application. The bond is then strong enough for use or downstream processing of the joined parts.”

AUTOMOTIVE SPRING PIN® The logical solution.

100% control plus+. Optimal chamfer angle. Easily Installed. Greater Fastening Security. Reduces Fastener Costs.

www.jvu.de

Anzeigen_FFEurope_neu_RZ.indd 1

Spannstiftstrasse 2 D-58119 Hagen T. + 49 (0) 23 34.957-215 spannstifte@jvu.de

For more Information please contact our sales department

07.01.2008 10:02:45 Uhr

ONE OF THE BIGGEST MANUFACTURERS OF BLIND RIVET NUTS IN ASIA We have more than 1,000 styles in stock and our production capacity is 5 billion pieces. We can produce blind rivet nuts in steel, stainless steel, aluminum and brass. We also produce lots of non-standards based on customers drawings and samples.

SHANGHAI RIVET MANUFACTURE CO.,LTD. Export Department Tel: +86 21 372 86065 / 372 86522 Fax: +86 21 372 86066 Email: chinarivet@gmail.com / cyd@chinayuanda.com

www.ret-global.com

Shanghai Rivet Ad Nov 10 V2.indd 1

18/11/2010 10:00

p r o d u ct s

Accu-Load uses its head Accu-Load has launched a range of bolts and studs which are capable of monitoring and indicating their load during tightening and in use.

ach fastener features a visual or digital readout option which is built into the head of the device and measures a percentage of the proof load. Each bolt is individually machined and calibrated to suit the diameter, material and bolt design. They can be used indefinitely and can be supplied with a range of hand held mechanical or digital readout systems for remote monitoring. The technology is widely used where vibration, thermal shock, even and accurate tensioning is required on complex flange arrangements and critical environments on processing plants. So far the product has been used on oil platform legs and offshore equipment, heat exchangers, slew rings on cranes, mining equipment, wind farms, petrochemical plants, compressors, pumps and cylinder heads of larger engines.

Rotor Clip offers 3D downloads Rotor Clip Company Inc, a manufacturer of retaining rings, hose clamps and related products offers design engineers the option of downloading the most commonly used rings as IGES files, which can be opened using any 3D design program, and PDF prints.

otor Clip is creating additional files until its entire product line can be converted over. This means that anyone creating a design that uses a retaining ring, spiral ring, or wave spring can easily obtain the dimensional information directly from the website by accessing the catalogue pages or the online customer drawing. Once the part has been selected, downloading the IGES drawing, which depicts the ring in the installed state, helps the designer save time as they do not have to try to create a reasonable facsimile of the ring in the installed state. Instead they can obtain the 3D part from the web and mate it in their assembly. Rotor Clip highlights that unless the designer is willing to repeat these processes with multiple suppliers, it is recommended that the finished product be designed around the ring that has been tested. Choosing another supplier always runs the risk that the part may have a different shape and not function as well in the assembly.

DEWALT launches accessory storage solution DEWALT has recently announced the launch of its new Magnetic Tough Case (or MAGbox) accessory storage solution which aims to solve all end user accessory storage frustrations.

he new MAGbox from DEWALT has been designed to accept most common accessories such as flatwood bits, screwdriver bits, screwdriver bit holders, metal drill bits and other accessories up to a maximum of 170mm long, as well as fixings and fastenings. The MAGbox is very tough and will withstand the rigours of jobsite abuse. The MAGbox is also equipped with two very powerful magnets which allow the box to be attached to various ferrous metal surfaces on the jobsite such as metal track/studs, metal pipes, electrical cable tray and trunking, electrical switch boxes, ducting, as well as other ferrous metal items. The magnets are surrounded by a rubber ring so they can also be attached to a vehicle body without scratching the surface. There will be two Magnetic Tough Cases available and both include the new and innovative impact ready accessories which withstand the impact of an impact driver but can also be used in a conventional cordless drill. The DT7919 15-piece screwdriver bit set includes a mixture of Ph, Pz and TORXâ&#x201E;˘ bits as well as hex screw holders and a magnetic bit holder. The DT7965 20-piece screwdriver and drill bit set includes the same as the DT7919 as well as impact ready drill bits. Both sets are available now from local DEWALT distributors.

140 Fastener + Fixing Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 66 November 2010

p r o d u ct s

Critical measurements protected Where temperature, humidity or pressure is critical to operations, the measuring equipment has to be very reliable. Abacus Instruments manufactures products that measure accurately and the company uses locks from Camlock Systems to protect the equipment.

bacus Instruments is a British business that makes a wide range of products for ensuring that measurements of temperature or other parameters are monitored and/ or recorded. Several of these products have a lockable door to prevent unauthorised access or alarm override. Camlock Systems supplies Series 13 micro cam locks, which provide full functionality within ultra compact proportions. Like Camlock Systems, Abacus Instruments offers a range of products for rapid delivery from stock or can design and manufacture to meet customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; specific requirements. Clive Bratt of Abacus Instruments says: â&#x20AC;&#x153;After experiencing long delivery lead-times from our previous supplier, we approached Camlock Systems. We receive a good service from them, which helps us to achieve the highest levels of customer satisfaction. We also find their prices are competitive.â&#x20AC;?

Blind Rivets

A Riveting Experience ORLOCK Double locking system OR-BULB Spilt Tail STELOCK / STEEL-FIX Steel High Strength and Multi-Grip U-FIX High Versatile Multi-Grip T.P.R / O.R.P Superior Peel ORNILOCK / OR-BOLT Multi-Grip Structural

www.ornit.com

World Wide: +972-86610222 USA: 1-877-627-0423

P r o d u ct s

Sink your teeth into this! Everbuild Building Products has launched a brand new PU adhesive: Gator Glue, which is an all purpose, high strength adhesive that will stick to most common substrates, whether internal or external, and has a vast multitude of uses.

verbuild explains that Gator Glue is the adhesive with real bite, as once applied it penetrates and expands slightly, really “sinking its teeth” into both substrates to form an indestructible bond. Gator Glue is a totally waterproof glue which can be used to bond wood, stone, metal, ceramics and much more. It is available in four handy sizes: 60ml, 150ml, 250ml and 500ml, suitable for any size jobs. All of the sizes of Gator Glue are supplied in high impact, shelf ready display boxes. In addition, to celebrate the launch of this aggressive new glue, Everbuild is also doing a starter pack featuring 4 x 60ml, 3 x 150ml and 3 x 250ml bottles all packed in a display box.

Clinch it with Rivit Rivit Srl offers a wide range of fixing systems for, it says, the full satisfaction of its customers’ needs. Among the solutions is its range of self-clinching studs, nuts and standoffs, which are quick and safe fastening systems to solve fixing problems in metal sheets, box and thin plates, even where painted.

he nut range includes self locking nuts, hexagonal nuts K, flat nuts and round nuts. The round nuts allow users to create threads in thin materials, and are placed in a pre-hole. Due to the pressure application they fix themselves without damaging the material. All the nuts are available in carbon steel and stainless steel. The standoffs provide fast assembly between metal sheet and the other elements, particularly where the user needs to maintain them parallel and at a specific distance. They can be placed in metal sheets of minimum 1mm thickness and are

suitable both for passing and blind thread. The standoffs can be open or blind and they are available in carbon steel and stainless steel. The studs can be used on sheet metal from 1mm thickness to create a thread for securing with nuts. They are produced in different materials, such as stainless steel, carbon steel or phosphorous bronze, in order to offer solutions which are not possible with other products. Rivit also offers the tools for placing the self-clinching products, in particular manual presses like RIV2100.

ALLBOLTS LTD

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

Tel: 01379 872910 Fax: 01379 872915

allbolts@btconnect.com

improve your fastening

BORN TO FIX

PATENTED

Deform-Nut SC introducing the new fasteners experience

www.specialinsert.it

p r o d u ct s

bigHead resistance welding 66% stronger than clinching Both clinching and resistance welding are tried and tested fastening technologies used in a myriad of industrial applications. Both methods achieve good results, but which is stronger?

n an effort to answer this question bigHead recently carried out comparative tensile loading tests on clinched fasteners of equivalent material properties and dimensions to that of a bigHead fixing. The results clearly show that resistance welded fasteners can accommodate a 66% higher tensile load than equivalent clinched fasteners. The superior performance equates to an additional 200Kgf of loading before the product may physically fail.

Image 1: clinched fasteners after tensile testing

Images 1 and 2 (right) show both clinched and resistance welded fasteners after testing. Both fastener groups have been tested to destruction by the application of a tensile load applied axially to the stud. The example selected for test was a low carbon steel fixing with a diameter 30mm x 1.2mm head and M6 x 12 centrally affixed stud. Tensile loading to destruction is the benchmark test method used by bigHead for each and every production lot. It ensures every fastener bigHead produces is of maximum strength and quality. Contrary to many peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assumptions a bigHead resistance weld is also the strongest part of the fastener and is actually a point of strength and not of weakness. Indeed, one of bigHeadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pass/fail criterion for the tensile load test carried out on each lot is that the weld does not fail before the steel itself.

Image 2: bigHead fasteners after tensile testing; note that material has remained attached to the stud, having been torn away from the head; the bigHead benchmark testâ&#x20AC;Ś see left.

tel. + 44 (0) 1494 462 322 www.staytite.com

Flange Nuts & Bolts

Serrated Flange Nuts

Serrated Flange Bolts

dedicated to meeting all your fastening needs

...all your fastener requirements

7147A Advert Layouts.indd 4

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Use NORD-LOCK bolt securing system for your most demanding applications. Our wedge-locking washers, meeting DIN 25201, utilise tension instead of friction making them superior to traditional methods.

Cuts COsts WHILst INCREAsING sAFEtY Prevents loosening caused by vibration and dynamic loads Locking function not affected by lubrication Reduces assembly time and maintenance costs

NORD-LOCK Ltd Tel +44 (0) 1980 847129 Fax +44 (0)1980 847674 enquiries@nord-lock.co.uk www.nord-lock.co.uk

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3M extends portfolio 3M has further extended its portfolio of industrial adhesive and tape products with the introduction of a new range of laminating adhesive tapes.

M Laminating Adhesive 360 offers a range of features and benefits for the many OEMs designing thinner products using lighter weight materials, with 3M saying that its Laminating Adhesive 360 is able to provide greater shear and peel strength than other thicker tapes. Available as both an adhesive transfer tape and a double coated tape, the range offers initial high tack for fast, secure assembly to a range of high surface energy (HSE) and previously difficult to bond low surface energy (LSE) substrates. These include glass, ABS and hard to bond PP, HDPE, LDPE, nylon and powder coated or UV painted surfaces. Very thin bond lines of between 50µm and 130µm are achieved - ideal where aesthetic considerations are paramount. 3M points out that the products are easy to convert, with their minimal oozing when cutting helping to address common production issues such as adhesive ‘picking’ during unwinding, adhesive residue on cutting blades, and adhesive sticking to liner and/or die-cut part surfaces. These products are heat resistant up to 180°C and offer good resistance to solvents and harsh environments.

the sN series Nut from ErIco The SN Series Nut, part of the CADDY® line of fixings, fasteners and supports from ERICO, is an innovative new solution for supporting loads on threaded rod.

he SN Series Nut is easy to install and can be positioned instantly on threaded rod at any location, helping to significantly reduce installation time. The user simply needs to open the nut and insert it on the threaded rod where needed. They then have to twist it to close and tighten with a wrench. Because the SN Series Nut can be added to an existing application, it is ideal for use on a wide variety of retrofit projects, including trapeze installations. ERICO explains that the SN Series Nut was designed to reduce the need for threading and it offers an installation time saving of up to 50% compared to standard nuts and washers. The SN Series Nut also provides a load rating stronger than that of the threaded rod itself. `”The SN Series Nut is an innovation from ERICO designed to help the construction industry complete projects faster, easier and more efficiently.”

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threadlocking with a twist Permatex Gel Twist™ anaerobic threadlockers have been successfully selling in the USA for many years and since their European roll-out the product has been readily accepted by many consumers throughout the continent.

he ‘gel’ design and special pin-point applicator offer many benefits. Operators and technicians can put the threadlocker exactly where they want, in vertical applications and hard to reach places. Gel Twist will flow into threads more easily than solid stick formulations, but will not spill like liquid threadlockers. ITW Permatex points out that Gel Twist is more effective than conventional lock washers, nylon inserts and other mechanical devices because it secures the entire fastener assembly against loosening from shock and vibration, which means the fastener clamping forces are maintained and the threads are protected from corrosion too. Gel Twist is available in two grades: medium strength

Threadlocker Blue Gel, and high strength Threadlocker Red Gel. Blue Gel is used where hand tool disassembly is required, Red Gel will need special tools or heat to enable disassembly. The products also have rapid cure speed, very good chemical resistance and a temperature resistance range of -54°C to 149°C. Gel Twist has impressive performance figures, states ITW Permatex. Typical breakaway torque is 13Nm for Blue Gel, 20Nm for Red Gel and typical prevailing torque is 6Nm for Blue Gel and 26Nm for Red Gel. “Breakaway torque is the force required to initiate the fastener movement. Prevailing torque is the force required to disassemble the fastener once breakaway torque has occurred. Values are after 24 hours at 22°C on degreased 3/8-16 steel grade 8 nuts and grade 2 bolts.”

Bushlite shines bright Bright Light Company says that its new Bushlite, a rechargeable portable lamp, provides high levels of performance and convenience not previously seen in the portable lighting market.

tilising state of the art, patented, microprocessor technology, Bushlite provides the equivalent of a standard GLS 60 watt bulb for up to 8 hours from a full charge. Bushlite can be fully charged by connecting the AC adaptor to mains socket for just four hours or can be charged from a car power source socket, solar panel and even in an emergency by the built in wind-up generator. Bright Light Company points out that its Bushlite will have popular appeal for both business and leisure users. “Bushlite is ideal for all those who work outdoors and require a bright portable light whether that is a farmer, fisherman, security guard, serviceman or even shepherd seeking a lost sheep. Also, as it is weatherproof for use indoors and out, the Bushlite will be welcomed by caravanners and campers, utilised by trade and professionals but probably most enjoyed by those with no lighting at all.”

New safety critical bolting Leaks in petrochemical plants, failures in rail points, and breakages of wind turbine blades can often be traced back to a simple bolt or stud failure. For a bolt or stud to operate safely it is paramount they have the correct tension in operating conditions, yet this raises the question - how can you tell if a stud is still tight after assembly is long finished? A company based in Sheffield, UK, says that it has the solution.

rnold Wragg has launched a new product called EcoStud which offers a solution to this apparently simple, but actually very difficult and critical, problem. Fitted to the end of an EcoStud is a stainless steel rotor which is locked when the stud is tight but becomes free to spin when the stud begins to lose load. A simple fingertip test will instantly establish whether the stud is still tight simply by checking if the rotor will spin. Arnold Wragg explains that it is a very accurate test as every EcoStud has an integral tension gauge in its centre which directly measures the strain in the stud to an accuracy of +/-5%. “A wind turbine blade has typically 60 retaining studs, that’s 180 studs per generator for the blades alone. These studs are subject to high vibrational fatigue loading so it is a must that they are correctly tensioned to avoid fatigue failure. Using the new EcoStud it would take minutes to check each blade. By using the traditional method of applying the torque wrench back onto each stud would take a full day. Not to mention the difficulty of applying the wrench 60 times for every blade on a complete offshore wind farm …in bad weather.”

150 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 66 November 2010

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DIRAK slides into action

FDB offer 180˚capability

DIRAK has introduced the new 1-103 Slide Shoe for Cams, designed specifically to prevent the panel surface from being scratched by the rotation of a cam during the closing and opening process.

New from FDB Panel Fittings is the 40mm long cast hinge with 180° capability and sealing capacity to IP65 with RH or LH operation.

he 1-103 Slide Shoe allows the cam to slide easily during rotation, eliminating metal-to-metal friction often resulting in surface scratches and paint chipping. Fallen metal parts can cause short circuits and fallen paint particles can negatively affect the equipment inside the enclosures. The 1-103 Slide Shoe features a unique securing mechanism, referred to as the ‘Snap-Hook’, which holds the Slide Shoe securely in place on the cam and prevents it from turning or becoming loose during the application life cycle. To attach the 1-103 Slide Shoe the user simply needs to push the housing component onto the cam until it aligns with the cam. The latch wedge component is pushed to slide under the cam until the ‘Snap-Hook’ securely latches into the opening with an audible ‘click’ verifying proper installation. DIRAK points out that the latching mechanism eliminates the risk of the component falling off. In addition, the secure locking feature ensures that the 1-103 Slide Shoe will not twist out of place as the cam rotates or as pressure is applied. DIRAK highlights that the 1-103 Slide Shoe is made of a material that has a low coefficient of friction thereby providing ideal gliding properties against metal panels. Also wear or damage to the material is not incurred under load or surface movement. The 1-103 Slide Shoe can be applied to any 35mm and 45mm single or 3-point cam having the standard 3mm ramp. It can also be installed onto a preassembled quarter-turn after sliding the quarter-turn through the panel cutout. Note that the 2mm thickness of the Slide Shoe causes the ‘H’ dimension on DIRAK latches to be reduced by 2mm.

he 40mm long cast hinge will be of interest to specialist panel builders and installers of electrical or electronic cabinets where full door opening is required, either for maximum door clearance, e.g. for insertion of equipment - or for access to the rear of the door. They may be used on standalone enclosures/racks or on suite style side-by-side installations. Three versions are available with M5 cast in screws, with screws on one leaf and SNAP-LINE® fitting on the other leaf or with SNAP-LINE® (D-SNAP®) technology on both leaves. FDB explains that D-SNAP® technology enables assembly/dismantling without tools, screws or nuts, as well as being vibration proof. “Not only is this system fast and easy to assemble - it is also a simple ‘blind’ push-in fitting that does not require access from the rear - this often enables up to 90% savings in hinge assembly time.”

HECO-UNIX – The fully threaded screw with contraction effect ®

Visit us at Fastener Fair Stuttgart 22nd – 24th February 2011 Hall 4 / Stand No. G10

Patented HECO-UNIX full thread ®

Contraction effect thanks to the full thread with variable pitch The HECO-UNIX combines the characteristics of a part threaded screw with the advantages of a full threaded screw ®

Patented combi screw head for mounting in fittings and on wood Precise fit in fittings Milled effect in wood thanks to milling grooves

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

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A range in continuous evolution The new four-stars screws from Bülte Plastics are perfectly adapted for manual assembly thanks to the special shape of their head, making them ideal for hand tightening.

he are two different models to choose from the PLAS 70 with conical shoulder in sizes M4, M5, M6 and M8, and PLAS 71 with cylindrical shoulder in sizes M6, M8, M10 and M5 on request. A major asset of the new four-stars screws, which are manufactured in standard natural nylon, is their lightness along with their resistance to vibration and friction. Furthermore, the screws offer good electrical insulation, thus offering an effective alternative to metal screws. Bülte can offer the four-stars screws in PP, PE, PC and PVDF, materials resistant to diluted acids, greases and oils. Also, the lengths of the screws vary from 6mm - 80mm depending on thread size. With other lengths available on request. Prices and free samples, as well as a complete catalogue are also available on request.

RAWLPLUG is an innovative company focused on providing our customers with modern solutions in the field of fixings, fasteners and tools. We are a recognised global group who strive to meet the highest expectations of our customers. We achieve this objective through our employees who we are continuously developing and of whom we inspire with commitment and trust every day. We build an efficient, world-class organization which ensures value to its customers, shareholders and preserves respect to natural environment. Due to the combination of a traditional and modern approach, dynamics and responsibility, we have developed a company which you can really trust.

We have an exciting opportunity available to join Rawlplug as an Area Sales Manager for London Responsibilities within this role include: • Work within a defined geographical territory • Achieve and exceed monthly sales targets whilst maintaining agreed gross margin levels • Develop sales opportunities with existing customers as well as identifying new opportunities • Understand the market, identify the competition and displace the competition activity

Who we’re looking for ‘’We are looking for an individual who understands the tradition in our company, the fixings market and someone who is dynamic and strives for very high quality of work.’’ • Strong work ethic and results orientated • Able to demonstrate success and achievement in other roles • Tenacity, drive to succeed and with the ability to work autonomously whilst still operating as a team player • Excellent communication and relationship building skills

The Package Good basic Salary + Commission + Company car To apply for this position please email your CV to martin.bates@rawlplug.co.uk

ACT Fasteners & Components........................ 17 Action Can................................................... 135 ADI Supply Ltd............................................... 25 Adolf Pühl GmbH & Co. KG.. ............................. 1 Advance Spares.............................................53 Albert Pasvahl GmbH & Co............................ 57 Alca Fasteners...............................................59 Alexander Paal GmbH.. ................................ 115 Alfran Fasteners........................................... 103 Allbolts........................................................144 Alloy & Stainless Fasteners............................29 Ambrovit..........................................................9 APT................................................................38 Arpel (Chilterns) Ltd....................................138 Ashish International...................................... 41 Autonic Engineering Ltd................................63 Avon Stainless Fasteners............................... 25 Bäcker GmbH & Co. KG..................................69 Baker & Finnemore..................................... 115 Bendfast........................................................59 Berdan Bolt & Nut Co.Ltd............................... 67 Bilwinco A/S................................................. 95 Birlik Baglanti.. ............................................ 152 Bossong SpA..................................................63 Bralo.. ............................................................ 35 Brighton Best................................. 6, 8, 10, 12 Bülte Plastiques SA..................................... 136 Can-Eng Furnaces .........................................99 Chatsworth Computers Ltd.......................... 107 Chemfix Products Limited.. ............................ 71 Ching Chan Machinery.. ................................. 85 Corti Domenico.. ............................................ 91 Crest Industrial Ltd...................................... 103 Deepak Fasteners Ltd....................................23 Dejond Cold Forming...................................144 dk Software Ltd...........................................109 Dörken MKS-Systeme GmbH.. ...................... 156 Dresselhaus GmbH & Co. KG . .......................63 DS Fasteners.. .............................................. 123 E.U.R.O. Tec GmbH.. .......................................49 Earnest Machine Products Ltd.....................119 Everbuild Building Products.. ......................... 65 Everest Metal Industries.. ............................ 153 Fastbolt........................................................... 2 Fastener Fair India - Mumbai........................ 21 Fastener Fair Stuttgart.. ................................. 47 Ferroforma.................................................... 27 Ferrometal Oy............................................... 57 Fixi Srl........................................................... 65 FK Moore & Sons......................................... 153 Forward........................................................... 5 Fwu Kuang Enterprises Co. Ltd...................... 57 G & B Fissaggi Srl..........................................69 Gage Bilt..................................................... 133 Galaxy Fasteners (Owlett-Jaton).. .................. 55 Gefra.............................................................93 General Inspection........................................99 Global Engineered Products...........................13 Global Fasteners Sdn Bhd.. ..........................149 Goebel GmbH.............................................. 137 Graewe GmbH & Co.KG..................................13 Hafren Fasteners...........................................13 Hapare GmbH................................................59 Hastamat.. ..................................................... 97 HECO-Schrauben GmbH & Co. KG................. 153 Heinz Soyer................................................. 152 Hugo Benzing GmbH & Co KG.. ...................... 37 Ingramatic..................................................... 87 Italbolt Inox Service...................................... 15 Jubilee Clips.................................................. 37 Keyang........................................................ 133 Kohlhage............................................. 143, 145 Krumm & André GmbH & Co. KG.. ................ 147 Lederer.. ........................................................16 Linear GS..................................................... 105 London Screw Company Ltd........................154 Lusavouga................................................... 141 M&W Fastener Co., Ltd..................................19 Machine Screws Limited................................ 61 Masons Fasteners Ltd.................................. 136 Multiple Overseas Exports............................... 7 Nakashimada Engineering Works Ltd.......... 101 National Machinery.......................................89 ND Industries.........................................11, 123 Net Civata................................................... 113 Nordic Metalblok........................................... 91 Nord-Lock Ltd.............................................. 147 Norm Civata AS.............................................39 Norma........................................................... 51 omniTechnik GmbH.. ....................................119 Ornit Blind Rivets........................................ 143 Performance Fasteners Ltd............................ 61 Pinstructure................................................... 11 Precision Technology Supplies.......................43 Prelok.......................................................... 117 Rawlplug Ltd...............................................154 Ray Fu.........................................................148 Rex Fastening systems.................................. 65 Reyher.. ......................................................... 31 Rivco Ltd...................................................... 125 Rivit Srl........................................................ 155 Schnorr Adolf GmbH & Co. KG.. ...................... 27 Schröder Schrauben.. ..................................... 75 SD Products...................................................69 Shanghai Minmetals.................................... 117 Shanghai Rivet Manufacture Co Ltd.............139 Shin Chun Enterprise Co Ltd........................... 45 Simpson Strong-Tie/Liebig............................ 31 Sipa SRL.. ....................................................... 25 Smith-Bullough Ltd.. .................................... 147 Specialinsert Srl.. ......................................... 145 Stafa Holland BV.. ........................................ 123 Staytite.. ................................. 31, 68, 134, 146 Super Nut Industrial Co Ltd.. ........................ 142 Tecfi S.p.A ... ...................................................73 Tecno Impianti SRL........................................ 95 Test GmbH..................................................... 91 TFC Ltd........................................................... 11 Titibi.............................................................. 61 Top Screw Metal Corp. Ltd........................... 107 Totally Tools ................................................. 37 TR Fasteners................................................ 121 UBK SpA...................................................... 135 UIP.................................................................83 Vipa SPA........................................................ 17 Vlier Products................................................43 Vogelsang GmbH & Co. KG.. ............ 17, 75, 138 Volt Industrial Plastics, Inc.......................... 111 Vorpa Officine Meccaniche snc.. .................... 77 WASI.............................................................. 75 Weighpack.. ................................................. 103 Yi Tai Shen Co., Ltd...................................... 151

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02.11.2010 14:45:31 Uhr

WIND ENERGY

Make the most of the unbeatable efficiency of our zinc lamella systems. (Before the competition gets wind of them.)

Fastener + Fixing Magazine - Issue 66 November 2010

DELTA® protects surfaces.