Fastener + Fixing Magazine #93

In this May issue…

Fastener Fair Stuttgart report Business Intelligence Structural steel + cladding fasteners

SUPPLY SOLUTIONS FROM A TO Z

Mainland Europe Germany Phone: +49 (0)2565 93 25 0 Fax: +49 (0)2565 93 25 93

UK + Ireland United Kingdom Phone: +44 (0)1908 65 01 00 Fax: +44 (0)1908 65 01 01

Portugal + Spain Portugal Phone: +351 234 527 547 Fax: +351 234 240 957

Asia China Phone: +86 (0) 21-5836 2280 Fax: +86 (0) 21-5836 2279

www.fastbolt.com

www.fastenerandfixing.com

Issue 93 May 2015

SPECIALISED CATCH FOR DISTRIBUTORS ONLY Self Tapping Screws Self Drilling Screws Chipboard Screws

Threadforming Screws PLASFAST速 Threadforming Screws TRITAP速

Machine Screws Hexagon Socket Screws Hi Tensile Bolts and Setscrews Nuts

Threaded Rod

Mainland Europe Germany Phone: +49 (0)2565 93 25 0 Fax: +49 (0)2565 93 25 93

UK + Ireland United Kingdom Phone: +44 (0)1908 65 01 00 Fax: +44 (0)1908 65 01 01

Portugal + Spain Portugal Phone: +351 234 527 547 Fax: +351 234 240 957

Asia China Phone: +86 (0) 21-5836 2280 Fax: +86 (0) 21-5836 2279

www.fastbolt.com

STRONGER CONNECTIONS

w w w. i n d e x f i x . c o m

CONTENTS

40-41 Part of the Mack Brooks Group Romeland House, Romeland Hill, St Albans, Herts, AL3 4ET, UK Tel: +44 (0) 1727 814 400 Fax: +44 (0) 1727 831 033 www.fastenerandfixing.com Publishing Director Jamie Mitchell jamie.mitchell@fastenerandfixing.com

A far from fishy tale

82-84

44-48

Executive Editor Phil Matten phil.matten@fastenerandfixing.com Editor Will Lowry will.lowry@fastenerandfixing.com Deputy Editor Claire Edwards claire.edwards@fastenerandfixing.com Senior Advertising Executive Harry Whyte harry.whyte@fastenerandfixing.com Advertising Executive Emiliano Pagliaroli emiliano.pagliaroli@fastenerandfixing.com Advertising Executive Ilana Berstein ilana.bernstein@fastenerandfixing.com

Bumax® – starting where standard ends

Production Manager Andy Clow andy.clow@fastenerandfixing.com

EFDA conference

56-66

Production Assistant Jo Lightfoot jo.lightfoot@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 Ltd. Copyright Entire contents copyright © Fastener Fairs Limited 2015. 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.

Fastener Fair Stuttgart report 6

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

Annual subscription (6 issues) to non-trade and outside EU is €140.00

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by Titanox

E D I TO R I A L Will Lowry, editor, Fastener + Fixing Magazine

Reaching out…

In this issue we focus in-depth on topics and companies that cover the world of fasteners and fixings – starting with the recent Fastener Fair Stuttgart.

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nce again the show brought together the global fastener industry and underlined the size and importance of the market. We have a full report including visitor numbers, views and reviews from exhibitors, as well as the winners of the Fastener Technology Innovator Competition.

Our Cover Story concentrates on Fastbolt Group and how as a fastener distributor – with locations in Germany, the UK and Portugal – it is responding to, and anticipating, the needs of its distribution customers.

We also have an exclusive report from Executive Editor Phil Matten who attended the fifth triennial European Fastener Distributor’s Association conference, which was held in Berlin in April. The conference included associations from Germany, the UK and Ireland, France, Spain, the Netherlands, as well as members of the recently formed MEFDA group, and covered topics including international affairs and trade defence.

Other articles include an insight into UK-based Precision Technology Supplies Ltd and the next step in its development; Kobout B.V explaining how its excellent stock management and first-rate logistics has enabled it to become a key player in the Dutch market, as well as across Europe; plus an insight into the “world’s strongest steel bolt” – BUMAX®.

There is also a face-to-face interview with Mr Feng Jin Yao, chairman of the China Fastener Industry Association, who talks about the Chinese fastener industry and the challenges and opportunities it faces in the coming years.

To add to this there are also articles from Ingramatic SpA and how its manufacturing division in Castelnuovo Scrivia, Italy, will help further enhance its assembly and supply of components; as well as WAFIOS Umformtechnik GmbH focusing on how its recent in-house exhibition in Wuppertal, Germany, was a ‘striking success’.

CONTENTS INDUSTRY NEWS Europe and World.................................................................... 10-22 Perspective....................................................................................24 North America......................................................................... 26-28 Russia + CIS............................................................................. 30-32 Asia........................................................................................... 34-36 Brazil..............................................................................................38 COVER STORY A far from fishy tale...................................................................40-41 EXHIBITIONS Events Calendar.............................................................................42 Strong speaker line-up for EFDA conference......................... 44-48 Fastener Fair Stuttgart report..................................................56-61 Innovation the winner.............................................................. 62-64 A decade of innovations........................................................... 66-68 News........................................................................................ 70-72 INSIGHT Concentrating on China.................................................................74 TR Fastenings welcomes China Fastener Industry Association......76 Looking forward with anticipation........................................... 78-80 Bumax® – starting where standard ends................................ 82-84 Owlett-Jaton’s winning customer service drives demand............86 Kobout – supplying efficiency.................................................. 88-90

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

CONSTRUCTION FIXINGS Lindapter: Safely securing steelwork............................................92 Secure fixing for secondary steel connections..............................94 News...................................................................................... 97-100 MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY Ingramatic: Leading with new solutions.....................................102 News.................................................................................... 106-114 CATALOGUE RACK European manufacturers..................................................... 116-118 MANAGEMENT + SYSTEMS Business or Sales Intelligence – what’s best for my business?...119 You only coast one way.................................................................120 News............................................................................................ 121 Business Intelligence: It’s what you do with it that counts.........122 FOCUS ON Socket + hexagon bolts........................................................ 124-125 PRODUCT NEWS Application Technology news............................................... 126-130 Tools news.............................................................................134-137 Products news..................................................................... 138-150 INDEX...........................................................................................152

NEWS

EU extends anti-dumping duties on Chinese fasteners On the 27th March the European Commission published Implementing Regulation EU 2015/519 extending the anti-dumping duty on certain iron and steel fasteners originating in the People’s Republic of China and also consigned from Malaysia for a further five years.

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he new regulation concluded the Expiry Review initiated on 30th January 2014 at the request of the European Industrial Fasteners Institute. EU anti-dumping measures are normally imposed for a five year period after which they automatically expire unless an expiry review demonstrates the need for them to continue. In requesting the review the EIFI provided detailed evidence, according to its president amounting to 2,000 pages, that the termination of the measures was likely to result in a continuation or recurrence of dumping and injury.

An expiry review only considers the issues of dumping, injury and community interest to determine whether measures should be extended or terminated. It is not able to consider or amend the level of duty applied – this requires an Interim Review.

Ninety-one EU fastener producers offered to cooperate with the Review, representing around half of the EU’s total production of the fastener ranges under consideration. The investigation selected a sample of eleven companies to visit and investigate in detail. It also visited two importers, one German, one Polish, which had applied to cooperate. The European Fastener Distributors’ Association and the British & Irish Association of Fastener Distributors both registered as interested parties in the investigation and made detailed submissions to it.

“ An expiry review only considers the issues of dumping, injury and community interest to determine whether measures should be extended or terminated.

It is not able to consider or amend the level of duty applied – this requires an Interim Review.”

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

The Review identified ”several elements of concern, including large spare capacity available in the PRC, continuation of dumping and underselling practices worldwide, planned development of production capacity, product range and product complexity in the PRC, as well as growing trade barriers in other main third countries markets”. On the other hand, the investigation said: “Union consumption has been stagnating in the last five years” leading to “a state of vulnerability of the Union industry... characterised by a certain degree of spare capacity, low profits and business uncertainty”. The Review determined that “the repeal of the measures would with all probability lead to the sudden return of Chinese dumped imports, and that this would weaken the position of the Union industry in its core market.”

The Review concluded that “the continuation of measures would benefit the Union industry because the Union producers should be able to maintain their sales volumes, market share, profitability and overall positive economic situation. By contrast, the discontinuation of the measures would seriously threaten the viability of the Union industry because there are reasons to expect a shift of the Chinese imports to the Union market at dumped prices and in considerable volumes that would cause recurrence of injury”.

The Review decided the extension of the measures would not be against the interests of importers arguing that the sector had demonstrated its ability to transfer its purchases to other non-EU countries. No users or user representative groups cooperated with the Review. However, it interpreted their interests from the information provided by the fastener manufacturers and importers concluding: “…users can be… divided in two categories: High-end users, which need fasteners with very high-quality standards, and other users. High-end users could normally find the products they need from Union producers and from some highly specialised exporting producers. …the other users’ category (which might also include high-end users in need of cheaper products for less demanding applications) is the category of users which normally resorted to Chinese products. This category of users is normally served by importers, and according to the views collected while visiting cooperating importers, this category of users is now sufficiently supplied by imports from other countries, including Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.”

Anti-dumping duties of up to 74.1%, were reimposed on imports of wood screws, self-tapping screws, other screws and bolts, and washers, originating from China. The maximum duty was also reimposed on the cited fasteners consigned from Malaysia – except from nine companies previously granted exemptions. Precise details of the CN codes affected and ranges of duties applied to specific exporters, together with the Review’s detailed findings and conclusions, may be found by downloading a copy of EU Regulation 2015/519 from the EU Official Journal.

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NEWS

New circumvention cases reported Shortly before the European Commission issued the Regulation extending anti-dumping duties on steel fasteners from China, anecdotal reports began to surface of a new round of retrospective duties on Chinese fasteners allegedly trans-shipped via a third country, this time Taiwan.

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small number of importers in the UK, the Czech Republic, and Poland, were reportedly advised by their respective national customs authorities of liabilities for back duties on imports from Taiwan.

It is understood that OLAF identified eight Taiwanese companies as either involved in trans-shipment or refusing cooperation with its investigations. One estimate is that the imported volumes amount to 140 containers. One of the exporters is known to be Chinese owned. Three others have websites offering an extremely broad range of products suggesting they were traders and manufacturing activity was limited or non-existent.

There are unconfirmed reports one importer may be liable for more than 2 million euros in back duties. Other importers say the value of their liability is substantially lower as they only occasionally imported direct.

OLAF’s investigations are not reported publicly although importers may be provided confidential copies of investigation reports, if they require Customs authorities to provide evidence to support their accusations.

Importers are also reporting that EU investigators appear to be active in both Vietnam and India. Two exporters are reported to be under specific investigation in India, with other factories being contacted with requests to cooperate with EU investigators. Indian authorities have also reportedly tightened up on the issuance of Form A certificates to support duty exemption under the General System of Preference.

These developments are not entirely surprising when consideration is given to Eurostat data for EU imports of the cited range under the recently renewed anti-dumping measures (EU regulation 2015/519) on steel fasteners originating

from China or consigned from Malaysia.

Year-on-year import tonnage of these fasteners from India to the EU increased by 39% or some 17,000 tonnes. Imports of these products are 3.7 times higher than 2008, before anti-dumping measures were originally applied to China. Imports from Vietnam increased 35% year-on-year and are five times higher than 2008. Imports of stainless steel fasteners from Vietnam have also substantially increased in the last two years – up 42% in 2014 compared with 2013 and double the volume in 2012.

While some of these increases in volume will undoubtedly be attributable to importers switching sourcing from China and Malaysia as a result of the anti-dumping duties, the European Commission almost inevitably will have viewed these significant changes in the pattern of trade as cause for investigation.

City of London scrutinising Leadenhall bolt replacement The City of London has confirmed it has been fully informed on the investigation of failure of anchor bolts on the Leadenhall Building and that, as Building Control Body, it is ‘fully involved in the replacement process’.

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esponding to questions from this magazine it stated: “The City of London is carrying out its duties as the Building Control Body in respect of this issue.” Its spokesperson did not confirm that it had received a full copy of Laing O’Rourke’s investigation but did say it “has been kept fully informed of the investigation”.

Asked what actions it had taken to satisfy itself that appropriate regard has been taken to public safety in relation to the building the response was: “The City of London has satisfied itself that the owner and contractors are taking all appropriate measures to ensure public safety. This includes assessments, monitoring and tests of in situ bolts, tethering of exposed bolts, structural assessments of connections and exclusion zones.”

Finally the statement said: “The City of London is fully involved in the replacement process and is treating this as part of the original Building Control application.”

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

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NEWS

Bossard Q1 volumes grow “significantly” on acquisitions Bossard Group has reported that its Quarter 1 2015 sales volume increased significantly, with sales, in local currencies, up 8.4% compared with Q1 2014.

In Swiss francs sales increased 5.1% to CHF 168.8 million (161.1 million euros).

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EO David Dean regards the results as affirmation of Bossard’s investment policy. “Acquisitions and other investments have enabled us to consolidate our market position in various countries.” Without acquisitions sales would have declined by 1.5% in local currency and 4.3% in Swiss Francs.

Overall European sales improved 3.1% in local currency but fell 4.4% when converted to Swiss Francs.

Swiss sales, however, are in decline. American sales rose sharply, increasing 30.4% in local currency, as a result of the acquisition of Aero-Space Southwest Inc. Without the acquisition American sales would have declined 7.8% in local currency. Asian revenues increased 7.8% in local currency (up 12.4% to CHF 23.5 million) but sales growth in China was ‘below average’. Bossard said investments were helping to open up individual Asian markets.

David Dean said Bossard is aiming for annual sales between CHF 660 million and CHF 680 million (634 million euros – 654 million euros), representing growth of 13% – 16% in local currencies.

Previously Bossard released its detailed 2014 results. Net sales in Swiss Francs increased 2% year-on-year to reach CHF 617.8 million. The impact of the appreciation in the Swiss Franc is clear when growth in local currencies is seen at 3.1%. EBIT increased 4.3% to CHF 72.8 million. Operating margin increased from 11.5% to 11.8%.

European performance increased 3.5% to CHF 394.7 million (4.4% in local currency), with sales adversely affected in the second half by the Ukraine crisis and the weakening of the Euro. Asian sales grew 12.3% to CHF 101.1 million (up 14.7% in local currency). American sales fell 9.2% to CHF 122 million (- 8% in local currency) due to low demand from one major customer and delayed expansion of demand from an electric vehicle maker.

Commenting on the growth in profitability, David Dean, said: “The continuous growth in profitability is clear evidence of the success of our strategy. The orientation of the Bossard Group towards high-end products and services is clearly paying off.”

At the Bossard AGM Daniel Lippuner and René Cotting were formerly appointed as directors – these appointments were trailed in September 2014.

Bufab Q1 sales increase 10% Bufab Group reported Q1 2015 sales at SEK 609 million (approximately 65 million euros), an increase of 10% on Q1 2014.

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djusted for currency effects and acquisitions sales increased by 4% (Bufab acquired Flos B.V at the end of February. The Dutch company had net annual sales for 2014 of around SEK 160 million). Operating profit rose to SEK 49 million compared with SEK 33 million in Q1 2014.

Adjusted operating profit fell slightly to SEK 49 million from SEK 52 million in Q1 2014.

Jörgen Rosengren, Bufab president and CEO, said: “Underlying demand during the first quarter of 2015 remained cautious and in-line with the preceding quarter. Compared with Q1 2014, our assessment is that underlying demand in Sweden is somewhat weaker, while for international it is essentially unchanged.”

He noted the US dollar continued to strengthen against the Swedish krona and the euro weakened against the US dollar during the quarter. This meant Q1 2015 purchasing costs rose SEK 14 million as a result of exchange rate fluctuation.

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

In response Rosengren said Bufab had applied price increases, tightened purchase prices and applied cost savings to counteract the currency effect.

Market shares increased in Bufab’s international segment but net sales declined in Sweden as customer production continued to migrate overseas and a major customer opted to do its own manufacturing. Rosengren concluded: “Despite some positive signs, we have so far seen no enduring improvement in underlying demand. The exchange rates have continued to change in a manner that is unfavourable for Bufab. However, during the quarter, we have demonstrated the strength in our business model and organisation by succeeding in compensating unfavourable external factors with increased market shares and improved efficiency. Going forward, we intend to continue Bufab’s long-term favourable development in the same manner.”

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NEWS

NORMA Group expects solid growth for 2015 Reporting that 2014 sales increased by 9.3%, NORMA Group projects 2015 organic sales growth of between 4% and 7%.

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ORMA Group reported 2014 sales of 694.7 million euros compared with 635.5 million euros in 2013, with 22 million euros support from 2013 and 2014 acquisitions. Organic growth was 6.5%. Adjusted EBITA increased by 7.9% to 121.5 million euros (2013: 112.6 million euros) with the adjusted EBITA sustained at a high-level of 17.5% (2013: 17.7%).

“2014 was a successful financial year for us. We continued our growth path,” says Werner Deggim, CEO of NORMA Group.

“The economic recovery in the second half of the year for the US market, which is becoming increasingly important for us, and the continued dynamic development in Asia strengthened the growth even more. In the future, we will also focus on new product solutions and innovative technology.”

EMEA sales grew 1.7% to 394.5 million euros in 2014 (2013: 388 million euros). NORMA expanded its business despite the generally weak economic situation and overall lower levels of industrial production in Europe. It expanded capacity at two German locations as well as in Serbia, the Czech Republic, Sweden, and Great Britain.

In the Americas, NORMA Group sales grew 24.1% to 237.8 million euros (2013: 191.6 million euros). The improved economic situation and the once again rising dynamics of the US automotive market contributed significantly to strong growth.

Revenue from the acquisition of National Diversified Sales Inc (NDS) on 31st October 2014 totalling 13.9 million euros had a positive effect.

In the Asia-Pacific region, Group sales grew 11.6% to 62.5 million euros (2013: 56 million euros). Revenues from two 2013 acquisitions in Australia contributed to the successful result. In February 2014, NORMA purchased the remaining 15% of the shares of Chien Jin Plastic Sdn Bhd in Malaysia.

In May it opened its second production site in China to address increased demand for joining technology in the region. The new plant at Changzhou near Shanghai, manufactures worm drive clamps and profile clamps for the automotive and commercial vehicle industries.

NORMA Group expects a solid organic growth of between 4% and 7% in 2015, with additional revenue of around 110 million euros from the acquisitions of NDS and Five Star Clamps Inc. www.normagroup.com

Continued strong Bulten growth Bulten reported 22.7% sales growth for the first quarter of 2015 compared with Q1 2014, but said its operating margin was negatively affected by exchange rates – although it stresses this does not mean a long-term impact on profitability or competitiveness.

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et sales reached SEK 713 million (approximately 77 million euros) compared to SEK 581 million (62 million euros) in the same quarter 2014. Sales growth was mainly driven by two extensive FSP contracts that went into production in Q1 2014 and in the middle of Q2 2014, with a supplementary order received in the autumn. A general improvement in demand for light vehicles in Europe also had a positive effect on the Group’s net sales.

Bulten says it signed several new, smaller contracts during the quarter, some of which concern the joint venture between Bulten and GAZ Group in Russia, broadening the customer base beyond the original GAZ business.

Earnings improved, says Bulten, but the operating margin of 5.1% was negatively affected by exchange rates when translating working capital at closing day rates. This does not mean, Bulten emphasised, a long-term impact on profitability or competitiveness. Excluding currency effects of around SEK 13 million the operating margin was 6.9%.

Tommy Andersson, CEO and president, noted that car sales in Europe rose by 8.6% in the quarter according to ACEA statistics and said: “We will continue to invest in logistics and existing production to meet good demand for our products and our FSP concept. We also see good potential to further increase our market shares and strengthen our market position.”

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NEWS

Forward Industrial looking to inspire

Stafa Group is upgrading

Forward Industrial Products Group Ltd has been identified as one of London Stock Exchange’s ‘1,000 Companies to Inspire Britain’. The report is a celebration of the UK’s fastest growing and most dynamic small and medium sized businesses.

Stafa Group, a leading importer of fasteners is upgrading. In order to meet customer demand Stafa has recently opened a new office in Ljubljana, Slovenia, and has greatly expanded its facility in Maarheeze, the Netherlands.

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o be included in the list, companies needed to show consistent revenue growth over a minimum of three years, significantly outperforming their industry peers. “This report is a significant part of London Stock Exchange’s broader campaign to support UK high growth companies in their journeys from start up to stardom and to create an entrepreneurship revolution,” explained Xavier Rolet, chief executive at London Stock Exchange Group. “I’m delighted that a strong alliance between UK government, financial market participants, investors, entrepreneurs, and companies, has been created to support these inspiring businesses.”

Commenting on Forward Industrial’s inclusion, Martyn Cleaver, managing director, said: “What a fantastic achievement to be included in the ‘1,000 Companies to Inspire Britain’. We had no idea we were to be included but what a great accolade to the company and a great testimonial to the hard work of all our staff who are the key to our growth and continued success.”

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or Stafa, opening in Slovenia is the next step in providing current customers with an optimum service and offering potential customers the right added value.

The opening of a new production facility at Maarheeze is scheduled for June. This new facility means Stafa will be able to provide significantly expanded production capacity for private labelling – one of the distinctive services provided by Stafa that offers customers the benefits of process optimisation and cost savings. For this service, Stafa is also investing in advanced machinery and additional personnel “so that every possible package solution can be offered”.

Stafa now has eight offices worldwide with 15,000m2 of buildings and nearly 100 employees. That makes it , Stafa believes, one of the largest stockists of fasteners (DIN/ISO) in Europe.

“As a reliable and professional partner, Stafa Group offers a total solution in fasteners and fixings based on 40 years of dedication to flexibility, quality and expertise.” www.stafa.nl

DELO growing strongly DELO Industrial Adhesives concluded the fiscal year ending 31st March 2015 with sales of 74 million euros, representing an increase of 24% over the previous year’s figures.

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trongest growth was recorded in China and the USA with overseas revenues amounting to 70% of the total, the first time the medium-sized company has gained more than two thirds of its revenue outside Germany.

The company’s key pillars – the optical, electronics and automotive industries – were the growth drivers in the year.

Revenues from automotive grew 22%. Sales of adhesives for electronic applications in smartphones, smart cards, RFID tags, and semiconductors, rose by more than 60%.

“Due to a 15% R&D share in revenues, a multitude of completed research projects, and a broad range of new products, we expected a clear plus for the past fiscal year,” said

Dr Ing Wolf-Dietrich Herold, managing partner at DELO. “Such high growth rates also reflect the good economic situation.”

In the past year, the adhesive specialist hired 50 new employees and now employs 450 in total. DELO wants to create another 70 jobs this year, especially in engineering, R&D and production. The company also plans to expand its production facilities and build a new administration building at its headquarters in Windach, Germany.

“Even if we set the course towards further growth, we don’t intend to achieve it at all costs. We place higher importance on organic, profitable and sustainable growth,” added Dr Ing Herold.

Bossard expands in France The Bossard Group has confirmed it is taking over an area of activity from Titanox that generates 6 million euros annual sales.

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n March Bossard announced it was negotiating with Titanox and it has now confirmed the acquisition of the French group’s division for self-clinching fasteners for an undisclosed consideration. The partial acquisition strengthens the Bossard presence in France, which already entails four sites and 130 employees. The move also strengthens Bossard’s longstanding business relationship with PennEngineering® and means it becomes PEM®’s exclusive distributor in the French market.

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

TECHNOLOGICALLY ALMOST HUMAN

Hall 1 D39

Being experts in fasteners and having a high performance intelligent warehouse make us more capable, faster, and more efficient in fulfulling your needs; but it is our human team which drives us to excel every day.

Technologically almost human.

Experts in Fasteners

NEWS

MacB receives ISO/TS 16949 certification MacB Ltd, a specialist in automotive and engineering components, is gearing up to expand its export operations in central Europe, after it recently achieved the ISO/TS 16949 quality certification.

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ased in Cork, Ireland, MacB was established 30 years ago after the closure of Ford’s car manufacturing plant in Cork. The new accreditation, from German-based DQS UL Group, is a key step in the company’s development to supply major car manufacturers across Europe.

MacB’s focus on growth opportunities in the European market developed out of necessity over the past decade. The company followed a number of its customers overseas – when they relocated to central Europe – helping it to develop business relationships into successful customer partnerships. Today MacB Ltd continues to expand export operations into Poland, the Czech Republic, France and Spain.

The official presentation of the award was made by (Cork North-Central TD) Dara Murphy, minister for European affairs in Cork County Hall. Speaking in advance of the ceremony, Dara Murphy commented: “MacB is an Irish business success story, scaling up and expanding into the heart of Europe. It is a credit to the vision of John McCarthy and his management team, that a Cork firm is now a vital link in the European automotive industry supply chain, exporting essential ‘nut and bolt’ components to big brand corporate customers. I am confident that MacB will provide inspiration for other Cork-based companies seeking to develop market opportunities in the European Union.”

He added: “This prestigious award will help MacB to further differentiate itself in the competitive European marketplace and provides independent verification of its commitment to quality in every aspect of its business. I congratulate MacB on this achievement and wish them every continued success.”

Francis Kirk targeting 150 years Founded in 1868, Francis Kirk & Son Ltd is nearing its 150th year of trading and has established itself as a reliable partner in the UK fastener market.

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hrough the fifth generation of the family business, the company has added new staff, increased stockholding, and introduced an engaging sales strategy, which have resulted in an increase in market share. The company is now looking to branch out into new, previously unchartered sectors – such as renewable energy – as well as utilise state of the art business techniques to continue to grow.

Embracing technology and utilising the power of social media is just one element of this new strategy. New, informative video platforms are being prepared to help the company interact even better with its loyal customer base, as well as offer weekly fun competitions and incentives to demonstrate its progressive nature through its Facebook and Twitter presence.

Thomas Kirk, director at Francis Kirk & Son, commented: “As part of our market research we asked customers, and prospects, to provide their opinion on our business.

The feedback from potential and lapsed customers was that we were maybe a little outdated. This differed greatly from the experience of customers who use us regularly as they almost all felt we were a progressive, reliable and proactive company to deal with. Our objective has therefore been to encourage businesses who don’t deal with us frequently to experience that we are a modern, forward thinking partner, which is committed to providing progressive solutions.”

Thomas continues: “We have strengthened our supplier relations, increased our stockholding and now aim to impress customers with our knowledgeable and friendly staff, whilst fulfilling every sales order in the shortest amount of time possible. New internal systems and processes have been introduced (including the imminent ISO 14001 accreditation) to ensure this happens. We’re excited about what 2015 has in store for us.”

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

Fasteners – Meetaly 2015 Challenge the Future UPIVEB, the Italian association of fastener manufacturers, is promoting the first world convention focused on fasteners, which will be held in Milan, Italy, on 14th September 2015 in conjunction with Expo 2015.

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he convention ‘Fasteners – Meetaly 2015 Challenge the Future’ will attract approximately 500 participants from all over the world – including Europe, the USA, Japan, China and Taiwan. The majority of which will be operators working in the fastener industry (manufacturers, distributors and satellite activities), automotive industry, and major public works industry. www.fastenersmeetaly.com

NEWS

Earnest UK mourns John Zehnder’s death The former president of Earnest Machine Products Co Ltd died on 6th April 2015 from pancreatic cancer. Expressing its great sadness at his passing the Earnest UK team recalls the key role John Zehnder played in establishing the US company’s presence in Europe.

Agrati France inaugurates new logistics operation

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Agrati France has inaugurated its new 3,600 square metre logistics operation in Avressieux, Val Guiers.

t was John Zehneder who saw the potential in supporting US-based customers who had plants in Europe with the opening of a UK facility.

The turn of the millennium saw Earnest open a facility in Kingswinford in the West Midlands, supplying customer specific and core UNC & UNF product to both satellite facilities from US-based customers and also within the fastener distribution market.

In the early years there were some challenges for the business, however John was adamant that the business would work and supported the UK completely through those difficult times. David Townsend, who was one of Johns first ‘hires’ in the UK recalls that John was convinced “that keeping the UK facility open and making it work was the right thing to do”.

David reflected recently about his role at the distributor, as the Earnest Machine family experienced the loss of John Zehnder in April. John was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2014, three years after stepping down as president. John’s son, Kirk, serves as president.

“I remember when I visited the United States and John picked me up in his car,” David says. “I went to get in the passenger seat, and John said, ‘Nope, you’re driving this week.’ It was just little things like that, which immediately made you feel at ease with John. He made you feel comfortable. With him, it was like you were with the owner of the company,” David reflects. “Of everything he instilled in me, the value of respecting one another is especially important.”

Earnest Machine was started by John’s father, Paul, in 1948. It didn’t take long for John to become a part of the family business. John started working at Earnest in his teens. He attended Concordia Teachers College in River Forest, Illinois, USA, and taught in a high school in Chicago, Illinois, for several years, returning to Cleveland, Ohio, in 1967, to work for Earnest. Over the next 30 years, he wore many hats in the company and became president in 1974.

Just recently at Fastener Fair Stuttgart, Stuart Southall, business development manager at Earnest UK, recalls how now, people still come up to him and ask about John. It was obvious that John made a significant impression on everyone he met, even going back to those early days in setting the UK facility up.

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wenty five employees have transferred to the new site with a further 130 expected to transfer from La Bridoire by 2019, by which time the new site will have 16,000 square metres of covered area including production.

Agrati told French media its aim was to boost sales from the operation to 40 million euros on the back of a 6 million euro investment in new technology. In 2014 the current La Bridoire plant generated sales of 23.6 million euros.

The new operation is targeted at developing further sales to the German automotive sector. The company already supplies BMW, BOSCH, MAN and MAHLE and is reported to be negotiating new supply deals with Mercedes and VW. Agrati France is 51% owned by Agrati SpA with the balance held by the French Automotive Modernisation Fund.

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P E R S P E CT I V E

by Phil Matten, executive editor, Fastener + Fixing Magazine

Phil Matten reflects on some of the key topics currently involving the fastener industry Some years ago I addressed the China Fastener Industry conference on how its members could improve their marketing. All went well until I suggested that, if the CFIA ever again was to supply the EU legitimately, it had to control the anti-dumping circumvention activities of some of its members. Predictably, the response was a stony silence. Point proven by the recent Expiry Review conclusion, which clearly demonstrated the extent of circumvention was pivotal in the EU’s determination dumping would recur if the measures were lifted.

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n the other hand, there’s no question the original anti-dumping regulation applied tariff levels that shocked even European manufacturers and undoubtedly created a massive incentive to cheat.

Only an Interim Review can amend the duty levels – down or up.

It is now clear that China applied for such a review but that it was rejected, apparently for insufficient evidence. China now appears to be waiting the outcome of the WTO’s consideration of whether the EU correctly complied with the ruling of its Appeals Body.

While the parties in the dispute will know that outcome shortly it could be several more months before it is known publicly.

Meanwhile, it is clear the significant increases in imports of carbon steel fasteners from both India and Vietnam last year have drawn the attention of EU investigators. It seems inevitable this will result in further retrospective duties on importers that, knowingly or not, bought from sources involved in transhipping from China or simply refused to cooperate with EU investigators.

Talking of stony silences, EIFI President Anders Karlsson was greeted by one or two when he spoke about circumvention at the EFDA conference. The really raw nerve was his suggestion that importers, in order to comply with their quality certification, must know the source of their products. Correct of course, but it caused ire amongst importers for failing to recognise that,

however thorough their due diligence, it is not feasible to access financial, transactional and ownership data for a factory that in all other respects appears legitimate. Importers, trying to stay within the law but remain competitive in the market, feel it an affront to natural justice to be retrospectively penalised when it turns out a thoroughly scrutinised factory cheated behind the scenes.

It’s a Gordian knot with no apparent blade sharp enough to sever it. EU manufacturers say, simple: Source from within the EU. Importers counter that this does not reflect the realities of the EU fastener market, reminding that trade defence measures are not meant to totally block imports but to achieve a ‘level playing field’.

Barring a change to the EU’s basic anti-dumping legislation – an extraordinarily remote possibility – some things are certain.

Importers will face more retrospective duties and have fewer ‘safe’ sources outside the EU. The most intensive due diligence will not completely eliminate the risk of back duties. Importers that don’t carry out due diligence are gambling with the odds heavily stacked against them – and their pay-out if they lose is brutally punishing.

I sense a tipping point. The EU fastener industry will unquestionably evolve. Quite what the resulting landscape will look like, though, is a whole other question.

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NORTH AMERICAN NEWS

by John Wolz, editor, GlobalFastenerNews.com

West Coast ports dispute: Unions reach agreement Shipping companies and dockworkers reached a tentative labor deal after nine months of negotiations.

The agreement came three days after Thomas Perez, US labor secretary, arrived in San Francisco to broker a compromise in a dispute that had disrupted cargo flow through twenty-nine US West Coast ports.

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he International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the shippers’ bargaining agent, the Pacific Maritime Association, agreed to “fully restore all port operations” starting on the evening of 21st February, according to Reuters. The White House called the deal “a huge relief” for the economy, businesses and workers.

Port officials estimated it would take six to eight weeks to clear the backlog of cargo containers on the docks and several months for freight traffic to resume a normal rhythm. Perez told reporters

that the principal sticking point involved the arbitration system for resolving workplace disputes under the contract. The 20,000 dockworkers that staged slowdowns at ports up and down the western coast of the US have been without a contract since July.

Despite the new deal, delivery disruptions prompted shippers to use alternative trade routes to ports on the East Coast, Gulf Coast, Western Mexico and Canada, the Maritime Executive reports. A recent survey found 65% of shippers plan to send less cargo via the West Coast through 2016.

Brighton-Best acquires EZ Sockets Brighton-Best International has acquired EZ Sockets Inc in an asset sale. EZ Socket owners Ed Werner and Mildred Werner will retire within two months of the deal.

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ew Jersey-based EZ Sockets supplies domestic and imported socket screw products to distributors.

It was founded in 1978 by Isadore (Izzy) Mintz and Ruth Ringel Mintz, together with their daughter Mildred Werner and son-in-law Ed Werner.

Jun Xu, president at Brighton-Best, said the “combined strength of BBI and EZ Sockets will provide tremendous value and benefit across the distributor channel.”

Werner told GlobalFastenerNews.com that EZ Socket’s broad range of socket products, reputation and presence would help BBI, which will “capitalize on the depth of our inventory”.

When Mintz was with Hunter Stevens in 1974 he recruited Werner to join the fastener industry and started him with warehouse duty. Mintz handed Werner “the old red IFI Standards text to learn the fastener industry”, Werner recalled. He studied

the voluminous book while commuting by train to work until he commented to Mintz, who responded: “Oh, you only need the part on sockets.” After advancing to inside and then outside sales, Werner was sent to open a branch in the Atlanta market.

Mintz retired from Hunter Stevens in 1977 and in 1978 the four opened EZ Sockets.

Today EZ Sockets supplies domestic and imported socket screw products to distributors from branches in the Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Portland and Southern California markets.

Werner credited EZ’s “taking care of customers and service lot control” for its success. “We’ve always dotted our i’s and crossed our t’s and sought to be the best, not the biggest. We tried to do it right and we made money along the way.” Werner has been active in multiple fastener associations and was 1990-91 president of the Metropolitan Fastener Distributors Association.

US fastener stocks continue to struggle The FIN Fastener Stock Index fell 6.9% in the opening quarter of 2015, reversing gains it made during the final quarter of 2014. A comparative index of related industrial stocks rose 2% during the first three months of 2015.

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nly seven of the twenty public fastener companies tracked by the FINdex gained share value in Quarter 1.

In 2014 the FINdex lost 2.5% of its value, compared to a 7.2% gain by an index of related industrial stocks.

After dropping 7.1% in the third quarter of 2014, the FINdex gained 2% in Q4, compared to a 3.5% gain by an index of related industrial stocks. The final period of 2014 was marked by strong gains and losses for the 20 public companies tracked by GlobalFastenerNews.com

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

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NORTH AMERICAN NEWS

ASTM consolidates structural fastener specifications The ASTM Committee F16 on ‘Fasteners’ has consolidated six structural fastener standards into ASTM F3125.

The new standard covers structural fasteners for holding steel structures together from high-rise construction to retail to airport terminals to sports facilities.

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STM touted the new “streamlined approach” with one standard: F3125 ‘Specification for high strength structural bolts, steel and alloy steel, heat treated, 120ksi (830MPa) and 150ksi (1,040MPa) minimum tensile strength, inch and metric dimensions’.

“This is an example of what can happen when fresh perspectives, cooperation and effort combine,” said Subcommittee Chair Chad Larson of LeJeune Bolt Co. “The new standard maintains virtually all of the previous technical requirements and adds much needed changes in a very efficient manner.”

The six standards consolidated into ASTM F3125 are ASTM A325

and A325M for ‘steel heat treated structural bolts’; ASTM A490 and A490M for ‘steel alloy heat treated structural bolts’; and ASTM F1852 and F2280 for ‘twist off type tension control structural bolt/nut/washer assemblies’.

The F16 committee worked with the American Institute of Steel Construction and Research Council on Structural Connections.

With hundreds of millions of fasteners manufactured to ASTM specifications annually, fastener manufacturers, structural engineers and steel construction agencies will benefit from the streamlined standard, according to ASTM. Copies of the new standard are available online: astm.org

Anixter reports flat fastener sales Anixter International reported sales in its ‘Fasteners’ segment were essentially flat at US$249.4 million (approximately 224 million euros) in the opening quarter of 2015, with operating income rising to US$11.9 million.

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nixter auctioned its ‘Fasteners’ segment in January, which led to a US$380 million (341 million euros) deal with American Industrial Partners. The deal, which was approved by Anixter’s board of directors, is expected to close during the second quarter of 2015. AIP has also offered to acquire the portion of the ‘Fasteners’ business in France that has historically supported ‘Fasteners’ global business.

Weeks after the deal was announced, news broke that Anixter Fasteners is

testing a new name. Reports indicate the new name of the business could be “Optimas OE Solutions”. Optimas is Latin for ‘of the best’. If approved, the name would change in August.

Anixter Fasteners is a global distributor and manufacturer of highly engineered fasteners for customers in the heavy truck, powertrain, luxury automotive, agriculture, construction, recreational vehicles and other verticals. Anixter ‘Fasteners’ serves customers in 15 countries, and the average relationship

among its ten largest customers exceeds 17 years. The business reported 2014 revenues of US$938.5 million and operating profit of US$39.1 million.

The ‘Fasteners’ business includes 73 distribution centers, 12 quality labs and more than 1,900 employees worldwide.

Upon closing, ‘Fasteners’ will continue to be led by its current management team, with Ian Clarke assuming the role of president and CEO of the new company.

The company’s headquarters will remain in Glenview, Illinois.

ITW fastener segments report organic gains

Fastener sales up at Stanley Black & Decker

ITW reported Automotive OEM segment revenue, including fasteners, declined 2.2% to US$653 million (approximately 585 million euros) in the opening quarter of 2015, despite a 7% organic increase in sales.

Stanley Black & Decker reported its Engineered Fastening business achieved 12% organic sales growth in the opening quarter of 2015, driven by strong global automotive and electronics revenues.

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rganic revenues increased 13% in Europe, 3% in North America and 14% in China. Segment operating margin improved 170 base points to 25%.

Construction products revenue, including fasteners, declined 8% to US$381 million, with sales in North America up 5%, sales in Asia Pacific and Europe were up 1%. Segment operating margin improved 180 base points to 16.6%.

Overall ITW revenue in Q1 dropped 6.3% to US$3.34 billion (2.99 billion euros), with operating income rising 4.5% to US$697 million and net income declining 3.2% to US$458 million.

ITW manufactures highly engineered fasteners, industrial components and specialty products – primarily for the auto, food and construction industries. Brand names include Buildex®, ITW Fastex®, Ramset®/RED HEAD® and Shakeproof.

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EO John Lundgren stated: “We posted strong organic growth and operating leverage in our Tools and Storage and Engineered Fastening businesses in the face of a challenging currency environment.”

Overall Quarter 1 revenue grew 1% to US$2.6 billion (2.3 billion euros), with “robust” organic growth of 8% mostly offset by a 7% currency impact.

The company’s gross margin rate for the quarter was 37%, up from the prior year rate of 36.5% as a result of favorable volume, price, productivity and cost actions, which more than offset the unfavorable currency effect.

RUSSIAN + CIS NEWS

Alexander Ostashov, editor, Fastener, Adhesives, Tools and…Magazine www.fastinfo.ru

Bulten-Rus wins automotive award Bulten-Rus Company – a joint venture between Bulten and the auto components division of GAZ Group – has been recognised as the ‘Best Market Newcomer’ at the 18th International Russian Automobile Forum of the Adam Smith conference.

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ulten’s president and executive director, Tommy Andersson, accepted the award at the Adam Smith Forum, which took place from 17th – 19th March 2015.

Master of Ceremony Ben Hammersley of BBC World News announced: “The ‘Best Market Newcomer 2014’ prize is awarded to Bulten Company for the successful realisation of the development strategy on the Russian market.

Bulten is a leading supplier of automobile fastener elements with five factories around the world.”

Accepting the award Tommy Andersson responded: “The Bulten-Rus enterprise was opened at the facilities of GAZ Company in 2014, aiming to bring high-quality automotive fasteners to the Russian market. The factory is now certified by the main Russian and foreign car producers. The foundation of the factory is a long-term investment, aimed at the development of auto component production in Russia.”

Kirill Epstein, director of the auto components division of GAZ Group, commented: “Our cooperation with Bulten is an important step in the realisation of the strategy of the Russian motor car industry to localise production of auto components and substitute imports. Bulten-Rus organises modern production of world-class auto components within the framework of GAZ facilities. Bulten-Rus products are already used in production of new cars under the GAZ NEXT motor cars brand.”

Russian DIY chains continue to open shops in 2015 How will the economic situation influence the consumption in construction shops?

How will DIY chains develop in the new conditions? How has the consumer changed and how should one work with him in the future? These are the questions that companies, suppliers and producers of construction and finishing materials discussed at the ‘Problems and Prospects of Development of the Market of Building and Construction Materials and DIY-Trade’ forum, which was held on 1st April 2015.

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n 2015, Russian market analysts predict a serious drop in sales in the DIY sector. INFO-Line forecast a market fall of 8.2% compared with 2014. “In January the drop was 4.5%, in February 5%. Negative influences include growing costs for consumers and increased loan interest rates (Russians will pay up to 35% of income for credit repayments), and the devaluation of the ruble,” said Ivan Fedyakov, general director of INFO-Line.

“However, Russians still want to improve their housing conditions and 20% plan to make repairs.”

Nevertheless market leading construction and DIY chains expect further growth in 2015. Leroy Merlin continues to invest, as it believes in the Russian market. “We have not noticed any fall in sales and we continue to grow.

In 2015 the company will open ten more outlets. We want to open twenty stores every year. We think that Russia has the potential for additional 500 DIY outlets,” said Philippe Mougeot, marketing director at Leroy Martin.

In March a new Leroy Merlin store opened in Barnaul and the next one will open soon in St. Petersburg.

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

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RUSSIAN + CIS NEWS

Rosstandard develops standarisation programme for import substitution The standardisation system will become an effective instrument for substituting imports to Russia and driving the developments of the country’s economics as a whole, the standards body claims.

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n the 7th April 2015, Rosstandard’s proposal was presented to the board of the Federal Agency for Technical Regulation and Metrology. “Today, working to substitute imports is not so much a way out of the current crisis situation as a real chance for development and structural change of our economics,” commented Alexey Abramov, director at Rosstandard.

Alexander Zazhigalkin, deputy director at Rosstandard, presented the main report on the development programme of national standards, which is seen as a priority and crucial from the aspects of import substitution and national safety of key product types. Between 2015 and 2017 the programme aims to develop national and international standards that will ensure mastering of the production of key industrial products to replace current imports priority, taking into account the highest levels of international practice.

The programme includes 460 standards and covers products for nineteen industrial sectors. At least 42 technical committees for standardisation – including leading specialists of industrial enterprises, as well as science, design and engineering organisations – will take part in realising this large-scale project.

The completed standards will be used to determine technical requirements in state purchases; purchases by companies participating in state projects; and other market participants. One of the main trends in the programne’s realisation will be the conversion of the whole range of modern international standards into national standards.

New standard for anchor design in reinforced concrete structures In February a number of standards of the self-regulating organisation of the non-commercial partnership – ‘The Union of organisations fulfilling architectural and structural design for the nuclear industry SOYUZATOMPROYEKT’ were approved at the general meeting of its members.

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ne is ‘Nuclear power: Design of anchors installed in the hardened concrete of reinforced concrete structures’ – a standard designed by the ‘Center of Technical Competences in the Nuclear Industry’.

The designer took into account regulations and requirements of the national regulatory documents, as well as regional European and international standards. The standard includes calculations for mechanical and chemical anchors installed into concrete foundations under static load, mentioned in STO 36554501-039-2014 ‘Design of Hilti anchors’.

The new standard states requirements for the anchor design for construction of buildings and for use in nuclear power facilities.

“Fasteners. Quality and Responsibility” conference at Fastener Fair Russia On the 26th March the conference, “Fasteners. Quality and Responsibility”, was held within the framework of Fastener Fair Russia 2015.

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everal reports were dedicated to the important issue – ‘Fasteners with anti-corrosion characteristics’.

Mr Lysenkov, deputy general director for quality of Recom Plant, reported on: ‘Special features of different steels and their influence on fastener quality'. Another came from Mr Yarygin, director for quality and development of the plant of industrial coatings, who focused on: ‘Broadening the sphere of usage of innovative zinc-lamellar coatings. Problems and innovations’. Ms Kiselyeva, specialist at the Prodmash plant, spoke on: ‘Hot zinc coating of large size hardware products’.

Mr Galikhmetov, director for the technical development of BelZAN, talked about mastering production technologies for new fastener markets. He focused on the possibility to produce fasteners from stainless steel, titanium, heat resistant alloys, as well as establishing specialised production of aviation fasteners.

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

Specialists from Dow Corning and SACMA Group also presented their latest products to the conference.

The theoretical part of the conference included a report from Doctor of Technical Sciences, V.I. Gorynin, on ‘The influence of thread forming technologies on the strength of carbon steel fasteners made at low temperatures’. Candidate of Technical Sciences, K.N. Nechayev, presented: ‘Innovative technologies for fastening of sheet steel assemblies’.

Director of the Prommetiz Association, Mr Yarantzev, made the final report considering the current situation and development issues for the Russian fastener market.

The conference was led by Mr Ostashev, chief editor of ‘Fasteners, Adhesives, Tools and …’ Magazine, and Mr Guk, technical director of BoltRu.

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ASIAN NEWS

CFIA report on European delegation and EU Expiry Review The following is based on two separate reports from China Fastener Magazine (CFM), one issued before the announcement of continued EU anti-dumping measures on fasteners from China, one after. Due to limited space extracts are quoted and other content summarised.

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n March Mr Feng Jin Yao, chairman of the China Fastener Industry Association, led a delegation visiting Fastener Fair Stuttgart as well as Germany, Italy and the UK. Other delegates included: Mr Shen Jiahua, chairman of Zhejiang Province Fastener Industry Association; Mr Jinyao Wu, chairman of Wenzhou Fastener Industry Association; Mr Xu Pengfei, vice-chairman of Ningbo Fastener Industry Association; and Ella Leung, project manager of China Fastener Magazine.

On 11th March, the CFIA delegation met representatives of the European Industrial Fastener Institute (EIFI) in Stuttgart, including EIFI President Anders Karlsson and General Secretary Stefan Beyer.

According to CFM the attendees “widely exchanged opinions of the current situations of the Chinese and European fastener industries. The two parties also openly discussed the sunset review of anti-dumping duties on Chinese fasteners imposed by the EU.” CFM also says the two delegations “reached an agreement”. (EIFI sources later said this was effectively an agreement to differ on the subject of anti-dumping).

Chairman Feng quoted Chinese customs statistics. In 2014 Chinese fastener exports to Europe reached approximately US$700 million, of which less than US$100 million were fasteners covered by EU anti-dumping measures. Fastener imports from Europe were approximately US$1.1 billion, mainly high strength fasteners. The average per tonne import price was more than US$10,000 while the average export price of fasteners to the EU was US$1,836.

The CFM report contends: “Damage to the EU’s fastener

industry is relevant to the import of China’s fasteners and is actually related to internal structure of the EU’s industries”. It goes on, “we should clearly know that fasteners exported from China to EU are middle and low-end products so that there are no threats to the high-end fastener industry in the EU.” Chairman Feng expressed expectations that “manufacturers and traders of the European fasteners can unite… and jointly devote efforts to clearing up misunderstanding and misjudgments”. He proposed a working group between the CFIA and the EIFI to address the anti-dumping case and “through a mutual negotiation mechanism to achieve a win-win goal and joint development”. Chairman Feng also formally invited EIFI members to meet the CFIA at the Fastener Expo Shanghai in June with “the purpose to deeply understand the real situation of China fastener industry, eliminate all obstacles and strengthen the communication and mutual trust”.

(EIFI President Anders Karlsson later told the EFDA conference in Berlin that while the EIFI was not adverse to discussion with the CFIA it had categorically ruled out any discussion that would contravene anti trust regulations).

CFM went on to report: “...WTO will issue the final adjudication on the sunset review case regarding the anti-dumping duties on China’s fasteners imposed by the EU at the end of May. Insiders of China and Europe analysed that there would still be a huge possibility for the EU to continue imposing a five year anti-dumping duty on China’s certain iron or steel but with a lower duty rate. Mr Feng said that there would be a further discussion with the EU and also the Chinese government”.

CFIA statement on 31st March Following the publication of EU regulation 2015/519 CFM issued a further statement on behalf of the CFIA. “On 27th March 2015, the EU made its final ruling on the anti-dumping sunset review…, which chose to continue the anti-dumping measures against carbon steel fasteners originated from China. This decision truly astonished us.”

“Despite several face-to-face China-EU… dialogues, the EU still insisted on a wrong stand. The CFIA is very disappointed and angry at the EU’s final decision. It indeed violated the free trade rule and influenced normal trade between China and EU, which would lead both sides to a wrong destination.”

“The European Commission did not show respect to the endeavour from the Chinese side, that insisted the wrong decision to impose anti-dumping duties against certain iron or steel fasteners from China …would bring no benefits to each other.”

The CFIA statement makes extensive references to the meeting with the EIFI suggesting levels of understanding that differ substantively from interpretations from EIFI sources. The CFIA also argued that ‘the information age’ meant raw material costings in China are now transparent. It added that labour costs in China are constantly increasing and the price gap ‘between both sides is narrowing'. In conclusion it said: “We, CFIA, sincerely hope that the EU can follow the trend of development and completely bring the WTO adjudication on this case into enforcement. Confrontation brings no future; both sides should restart the negotiation aiming to bring win-win and mutual development to the Sino-European fastener industry.”

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

ASIAN NEWS

Chin Well expects flat fiscal 2015 Chin Well Holdings Bhd told the Malaysian Star that DIY fasteners, domestic market sales, and high security fencing products, are key growth drivers.

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xecutive Director Tsai Chia Ling expects domestic contribution to the Group’s new fiscal year, starting July, will improve due to new government construction and landscaping projects. Domestic contribution for the 2015 fiscal year is expected to be down as local wholesalers held back due to uncertainty over goods and service tax. Now these uncertainties have been cleared up, wholesalers are restocking.

Currently Chin Well’s Vietnamese operation produces 3,800 tonnes of fastener monthly, contributing 40% of Group revenue and half of the bottom line. Tsai expects 2015 fiscal to be flat compared with 2014 due to the weakened euro.

European sales, which account for 60% of group revenue, have increased but value declined. She said sales to automotive applications in Europe were growing steadily.

Quoting recent market reports Tsai noted that by 2018 the market for industrial fasteners in the Asia-Pacific region will account for 45% of world demand.

Boltun plans to consolidate production

Chinese fastener exports threaten Indian counterparts

Fastener World Magazine reports that Boltun Corporation has bought 16 hectares of land and plans to invest the equivalent of nearly 60 million euros to build a new manufacturing operation and headquarters.

Fastener World Magazine suggests Indian nuts and bolts manufacturers are having a very difficult time because of an “unstoppable challenge” from China.

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onstruction is scheduled to complete in 2017.

Boltun has obtained NADCAP aerospace accreditation and supported by Taiwan’s Industrial Development Bureau has developed superalloy fastener manufacturing capabilities. The company already supplies the large-scale wind generation sector and is now looking to gain share in the smaller scale generation market. Boltun says that, through the expansion of its production capabilities and range, it plans to become a VMI supplier to OEMs throughout the Asia Pacific region.

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he report suggests that the dumping of low cost nuts and bolts from China has impacted 40% of the local Indian fastener market. Statistics (Fastener World says without specifying a source) show there were nearly 2,000 nut and bolt manufacturers in India three years ago. However, the figure has dropped to 1,500 now. Some Indian companies are even said to have left for other industry sectors owing to their inability to compete with their Chinese counterparts.

Members of the Indian Fastener Suppliers Association have appealed to the government asking for appropriate measures (e.g. reasonable anti-dumping measures) to be adopted to prevent low cost Chinese nuts and bolts from being imported to India.

Chinese environmental crackdown may impact nickel prices Following the enactment of new laws on 1st January 2015 some Chinese cities appear to be cracking down on their worst polluters, which includes steel mills and nickel pig iron plants.

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eports are sketchy but in Shandong province, Linyi city temporarily closed a steel mill producing some 7 – 8 million tonnes annually. It also closed nine nickel pig iron plants, at least until they met stringent new emissions requirement.

Macquarie Bank has estimated that the closures could affect up to 35% of China’s total nickel output (equivalent to some 1,900 tonnes annually). China had replaced supply of high grade nickel ore from Indonesia by increasing imports from the Philippines and blending with domestically produced nickel pig iron.

If closure of such a significant proportion of domestic production were extended, China would need to increase its demand on world nickel inventories to sustain its stainless steel industry. LME nickel inventories are currently at all time high-levels. Similar to when Indonesia announced the ban on exporting nickel ore it will be important to differentiate between the effects of trading speculation and any fundamental change in nickel’s supply and demand relationship.

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

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

Brazilian trade fair season starts with boos for president Feicon Batimat 2015 drew extra emphasis from the country’s mainstream media, due to boos directed at Dilma Rousseff, the Brazilian president, during her visit.

F

eicon Batimat, one of the most important fairs for several markets in Brazil including the fastener sector, opened the event season.

This annual event is the main construction fair for trade in South America, and is held in São Paulo city, between March and April.

Belenus do Brasil LTDA, Âncora Sistemas de Fixação, Ciser Nuts and Bolts and Walsywa Indústria e Comércio de Produtos Metalúrgicos Ltda, were some of the most important Brazilian fastener companies attending the event.

The economic situation of Brazil means people are more occupied than worried, since it is essential to be prepared for everything, and also moments like this.

Higher social security levy will hit fasteners Published at the end of Quarter 1 Provisional Measure 669 raises the rate of social security contributions based on gross revenue of companies, as part of the fiscal effort to improve government accounts.

T

he controversial measure affects fifty-six production sectors, including the manufacture of screws, bolts, nuts and other items used in fastening systems. Fastener companies will have to pay between 4.5% and 2.5% of their gross revenue replacing previous contribution levels of 2% and 1%, which were introduced in 2011 to stimulate the economy and reduce costs for labour intensive industries.

The government measure, which has met opposition from the Senate, is due to come into effect in June in sectors including auto-parts, construction, shoes and clothes, mechanical and electrical/electronic products, shipbuilding, as well as truck/bus and trains.

Washer defect generates Mercedes recall

Revista do Parafuso: 50th issue

Mercedes-Benz has issued a recall to owners of Sprinter commercial vehicles and the GLK SUV model to replace a sealing washer in a tensioner and to retighten the assembly.

No one knows for sure in what year the production of fastener products in the Brazilian fastener market started, but its first specialised magazine was born in 2006.

ccording to Mercedes-Benz, the deformity in the sealing washer means there is a possibility of an oil spill onto hot engine parts, which could result in a fire in the engine compartment.

The models involved were manufactured in 2014 – Sprinter between June and November; GLK between March to July.

esearch and development, and preparation for production and print of the first issue of Revista do Parafuso all took place in 2006, with the first issue published and circulated in January 2007. Issue number 50 was published in 2015.

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

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C O V E R S TO R Y

A far from fishy tale Few need reminding that the role of the fastener distributor is ever more complex, fast changing and demanding. Phil Matten visited Ekkehard Beermann in Gronau, Germany, to hear how Fastbolt is responding to, and indeed anticipating, the needs of its distribution customers.

T

he role of the fastener distributor has never been a simple one but in the last decade the complexities facing distributors have multiplied exponentially. Geopolitical issues impinge on the fastener supply chain from global manufacturing base through to equally global customer environment.

Unprecedented economic crises test the mettle of fastener distributors throughout Europe. EU trade defence measures radically shift the pattern of trade and introduce huge levels of unpredictability in the supply chain. Increasingly complex and stringent regulatory requirements add to ever-tougher demands from fastener users for product performance, quality assurance and risk management.

Amidst all this flux the role of the importer wholesaler has also come under pressure, functioning as it does in a peculiarly transparent market where retaining customer loyalty is intensely challenging.

Recognition of the constant need to adapt and enhance its support to distributors is nothing new to Fastbolt.

Throughout its now 33 years’ experience the company has demonstrated two distinctive qualities that many similar businesses have found singularly challenging to reconcile.

On one hand Fastbolt has remained true to the core values defined by its founder, the late Heinz Storch. It continues to have an explicit commitment to exclusively support and supply the fastener distributor. Although its ranges have evolved and grown substantially it remains a specialist not generalist stockist of fasteners: A key element of that specialism is its commitment to hold defined inventories in both depth and breadth. It is clear in its intention to be a successful long-term business, ready and willing to commit major investment in a targeted and carefully considered manner to enhance its service capabilities. It is equally and unapologetically clear that to

40

sustain both investment and service, and be in the position to effectively support distributors in the future, it has to be a healthy, rigorously controlled and profitable business.

On the other hand Fastbolt has consistently demonstrated that it is attuned to the needs of its chosen market, fostering and maintaining a close and cordial relationship with its customers.

Arguably more significant, it has demonstrated the foresight not just to respond to what fastener distributors need now but also to anticipate and commit to the introduction of services to meet the needs of tomorrow.

Last year marked the opening of FB Ibérica Unipessoal Lda in Portugal. “We were already servicing the Spanish and Portuguese markets,” says Ekkehard Beermann, “but our inventory was around 2,000 kilometres away from our Iberian customers. Now they benefit from extremely fast deliveries from locally held stock, as well as the personal support of our Iberica sales team and management.”

“Of course we have a firmly established customer base in the UK and Ireland, serviced from Milton Keynes, and from Germany we service central and eastern Europe as well as Scandinavia and the

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

Baltic states. Looking forward I can see the potential to enter other geographic markets we are not able to service competitively or cost-effectively from our existing locations.”

Last year also saw the completion of a phased development of Fastbolt’s socket screw range, which now encompasses DIN 912 Grade 8.8; ISO 7380-1 and ISO 7380-2 in Grade 10.9; DIN 7984 Grade 8.8; and DIN 7991 in both Grades 8.8 and 10.9. The stock programme includes both plain and zinc finished screws. “The socket screw introduction is part of a strategic programme of selective range extensions,” explains Ekkehard Beermann.

“We maintain all of the core values Fastbolt has held since its beginning, so our range extensions are thorough, covering an extensive set of sizes and stocked in depth to ensure the reliability of availability our customers expect of Fastbolt.”

Now, Fastbolt is looking at the next phase of range development. “Within our specialist ranges we are confident we offer more than our competitors.

However, we recognise we must always achieve the right balance between our specialism approach and presenting our customers with opportunities for greater procurement efficiency.”

Major range extensions of this type, of course, demand both capacity and an effective logistics system. “The core plan continues to be to expand in Gronau,” mentions Ekkehard Beermann. “To use it as a central inventory holding and logistics centre, investing in expanded capacity but also in the technologies that allow us to gain efficiency and constantly improve accuracy and responsiveness to our customers.” FB Gronau has now acquired further space to expand existing racking space, as well as the approval for the future to develop a high-bay automatic warehouse.

Fastbolt has long held the reputation for having one of the most personable sales and customer service teams in the industry. In recent years it has been at the cutting edge of development in online enquiry and order systems. Ekkehard Beermann is clear that the two elements are entirely compatible and that FBonline delivers tangible benefits to Fastbolt’s customers. He also knows its further refinement and development will be an increasingly important element of Fastbolt’s overall customer service package.

“More than 60% of our German customers already use FBonline to check availability and their specific prices,” he explains. “Between 10% and 15% place their orders online – the majority need to use their own ERP system to generate the orders once they have confirmed the information from FBonline.” The latest system development focuses strongly on enhancing the ability for customers to see and manage their own order positions.

“Using FBonline 2.1 customers can clearly see all their open orders, including when stock will be available to fulfil them. They can see both the weight and value of current orders allowing them to consolidate or add to them for immediate shipment or collection.”

“This transparency is increasingly important because distributors have to be more flexible and responsive to their own customer and to do that they need easily accessible, accurate and comprehensive information from Fastbolt.”

FBonline is effective in supporting not just customers’ procurement teams but also their sales departments. “Because we are specialists, many of the articles we stock as standard are not stock items

for our customers – threadforming screws is just one example. FBonline allows the distributor’s salesperson to check availability, even outside office hours, on an item required by their customer, allowing them to commit to supply in the confident knowledge Fastbolt will support them.”

FBonline 2.1 also now includes volume related pricing, which means the customer can clearly and directly assess the advantage of placing a high volume order on a particular item. “Previously,” says Ekkehard Beermann, “the customer needed to call our sales office to discuss a volume related price. Now FBonline runs completely parallel to our sales office system so the customer can be sure they will obtain exactly the same deal, whichever method of contact they choose.”

The ultimate goal has to be a real connection between two ERP systems, with both customer and supplier operating purely within their own system but having full access to information from the other and exchanging documents securely. For customers whose buying volume and number of order line items justify the mutual investment Fastbolt is already proactive in both supporting and extending the capabilities of EDI connections to reach the highest level of process efficiency.

“With some customers we already developed solutions which incorporate the functionalities of FBonline and use EDI connections to and from our SAP system to process orders, order confirmations, delivery notes and invoices electronically.

Master distribution at its best!”

And there is more to come. Fastbolt has just hired the programmer of the latest version of FBonline as its in-house developer – a clear indication, were any needed, of the importance Ekkehard Beermann places on the role of FBonline in the future.

So the sashimi selection has never been so extensive, so varied or so readily available. But what happens, so to speak, if you are after the big fish?

“Our customers mainly see us as an importer wholesaler providing access to assured quality Asian manufactured

stock from a German, UK and now Iberian warehouse. The need for distributors to meet cost down demands from major customers continues to increase, however, and in those circumstances the distributor may look at importing product direct. FB Trade Asia gives our customers access to Fastbolt’s manufacturing base without needing to take on all the costs and risks associated with direct import. It is very attractive to certain types of customers and is a serious and growing part of Fastbolt’s business.”

“Each customer’s motivation is slightly different. For some the risks created

by EU anti-dumping measures are a big factor. They may not have the time or wish to incur the costs of personally auditing factories to ensure the integrity of the supplier. For some, straightforward economic and efficiency benefits are key and supply chain risk assurance is a bonus. For others, it is about quality assurance in the knowledge Fastbolt has its own factory audit team and can, if required, carry out comprehensive pre-shipment quality inspection.”

“This direct business is strictly focused on the products available from our existing supplier base – thoroughly quality assured and from proven factories with which we have a solid relationship and are committing substantial purchase volumes.

The benefit to our customer is receiving the container direct to their door, without incurring the cost of being handled in the EU, or pallets being shifted around our warehouse, but with a transaction made with a European supplier, eliminating the risks of being a direct importer.”

The Fastbolt ‘menu’ has never been more extensive. A personable and qualified sales team remains at the core, as does the long-standing commitment to breadth and depth inventory to meet ex-stock requirements. On that robust foundation has been built an array of technological and customised solutions: FBonline, EDI, system integration, direct container supply and at source assurance, customised logistics and packing.

“We see the variety in business methods and solutions as THE KEY ELEMENT to our business,” Ekkehard really is that emphatic, “in order to be a supply solution provider to ALL LEVELS of fastener distributors, from two people businesses up to multinational players in completely different European markets.

The fastener product always remains the same but the services attached to it and the way to sell it really does range from A to Z.” www.fastbolt.com

www.fastenerandfixing.com

41

EVENTS CALENDAR

National Industrial Fastener & Mill Supply Expo Where: Las Vegas, USA When: 21 Oct – 23 Oct 2015 Web: www.fastenershows.com What: Fasteners, machinery formed parts, tooling and packaging.

All American Fastener Show Where: Nashville, USA When: 9 Sep – 10 Sep 2015 Web: www.allamericanfastenershow.com What: Regional fastener event.

Vietnam Manufacturing Expo 2015 Where: Hanoi, Vietnam When: 10 Sep – 12 Sep 2015 Web: www.vietnammanufacturingexpo.com What: Industrial parts manufacturing.

Handtools + Fastener Expo Where: Mumbai, India When: 13 Sep – 15 Sep 2015 Web: www.iihtexpo.com What: Handtools and fasteners exhibition.

The International Engineering Fair (MSV) Where: Brno, Czech Rep When: 14 Sep – 18 Sep 2015 Web: www.bvv.cz/msv-gb What: International engineering fair.

HUSUM Wind 2015

18th Mechanical Components & Materials Technology Expo Osaka Where: Osaka, Japan When: 7 Oct – 9 Oct 2015 Web: www.mtech-kansai.jp What: Mechanical components and materials.

Taiwan Hardware Show Where: Taichung, Taiwan When: 12 Oct – 14 Oct 2015 Web: www.hardwareshow.com.tw What: Tools, building materials/DIY and houseware products.

Torque-Expo Where: Silverstone, UK When: 13 Oct – 14 Oct 2015 Web: www.torque-expo.co.uk What: Trade only distribution show.

SAIE 2015 Where: Bologna, Italy When: 14 Oct – 17 Oct 2015 Web: www.saie.bolognafiere.it What: Building technology, systems and machines.

China International Hardware Show

Where: Husum, Germany When: 15 Sep – 18 Sep 2015 Web: www.husumwind.com What: Wind energy trade fair.

Where: Shanghai, China When: 21 Oct – 23 Oct 2015 Web: www.hardwareshow-china.com What: Tools, security systems, locks, DIY and

building hardware fair.

FastTec 2015

PTC – Asia

Where: Moscow, Russia When: 6 Oct – 8 Oct 2015 Web: www.fasttec.ru What: Russia’s specialist fastener technology fair.

Where: Shanghai, China When: 27 Oct – 30 Oct 2015 Web: www.ptc-asia.com What: Trade fair for power transmission and control.

42

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

s s i M t ’ n o D

World’s Largest Fastener Expo!

19th Annual

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A Special Welcome to Our Fastener Industry Friends in Europe

October 21-23, 2015 Sands Expo & Convention Center Las Vegas, Nevada USA

A Special Invitation to Fastener Manufacturers, Distributors and Other Industry Related Businesses in Europe Visit the World’s Largest Fastener Expo featuring nearly 85,000 net sq. ft. of fasteners, fastener production machinery & tooling, precision formed parts, inspection, testing and packaging equipment, wire, plant maintenance and safety supplies, and more products and services from throughout the USA and around the world.

Meet and network with thousands of fastener manufacturers, distributors, importers, independent sales agents, manufacturers representatives and many others who attend the expo looking for new sources and solutions to every fastening application. Our expo regularly attracts buyers and sellers from throughout the USA and 35 or more countries worldwide.

Establish your company as a trusted supplier in the vital U.S. marketplace. Our expo is THE place to be if you want to build relationships and expand your business. Hundreds of domestic and international companies have enjoyed great success at our exhibitions over the past 34 years.

For Additional Information: Susan A. Hurley, CEM, General Manager: (614) 895-1279, email: info@fastenershows.com or visit our website at www.fastenershows.com

A S S O C I AT I O N S

Strong speaker line-up for EFDA conference The European Fastener Distributors’ Association staged its fifth triennial conference in Berlin this April. Phil Matten was there and reports on a well supported and exceptionally well organised event.

F

or Volker Lederer, now in his third year of presidency, and for Alexander Kolodzik, appointed general secretary in 2014, this was the first EFDA conference as organisers.

It certainly did not show and together they demonstrated a virtuoso organisational performance.

Dr Volker Lederer, EFDA president The Grand Hyatt Berlin provided a comfortable venue to bring together representatives from the national fastener associations, as well as speakers, guests and prospective members of the recently formed MEFDA group. Joining delegates from the German Fachverband des Schrauben-Großhandels was an unprecedentedly strong contingent from the UK and Ireland’s BIAFD; as well as representatives from Dutch Association, NEVIB; France’s PRISMEFIX and Spain’s ADEFI. In total more than 90 delegates attended the afternoon conference and some 130 people enjoyed the ‘Festive Dinner’ in the evening.

“ It’s no good complaining after the event.

You need to participate.”

44

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

International affairs and trade defence dominated the formal business of the conference. A battery of authoritative speakers was led by Knut Brünjes, deputy director general for external trade policy of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, updating the conference on the negotiations for TTIP – the Transatlantic Trade Investment Partnership.

John Lonergan, deputy head of the unit responsible for anti-circumvention at the European Commission’s Trade Directorate General discussed the modernisation of the EU’s trade defence instruments. Aimed at updating mechanisms largely unchanged since 1995 the Commission launched its modernisation plans in April 2013, with the intention “there would be something in it for everybody”. Radical and largely protectionist amendments by the European Parliament, which reversed a generally progressive set of proposals from the INTA committee have, however, led to an impasse with the European Council unwilling to approve the revised proposal, elements of which, Mr Lonergan hinted, were in practice unworkable for the Commission. The future of the process is now dependent on whether a future presidency of the Council invests the necessary impetus to achieve a compromise agreement.

Mr Lonergan continued by exploring measures designed to curtail circumvention, a major concern now for both European distributors and manufacturers. “China is a problem” in relation to circumvention, Mr Lonergan acknowledged, with transhipment via a third country a classic response to EU trade measures. He told the conference there was currently, “no ongoing investigation on circumvention via Taiwan on fasteners” but made no reference to individual customs actions based on OLAF investigations, which are known to have occurred recently. Overall Mr Lonergan

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A S S O C I AT I O N S was emphatic about the advantages, particularly for SMEs and their representatives, of engaging with the European Commission on trade defence issues. “It’s no good complaining after the event,” he noted. “You need to participate.”

Ending the first session, Anders Karlsson, president of the European Industrial Fasteners Institute, wondered whether he should cast himself as the “black sheep” amongst the assembly, acknowledging that the further period of anti-dumping duties on fasteners from China had been instigated by an EIFI request for the expiry review. Characteristically forthright, though, he added: “But I don’t feel it’s like that. It has been a fair game from the Commission.” He continued: “Now it is there and we have another five years… I can agree with some of the comments made here about the duty levels but the expiry review did not allow for any reassessment of them.” He admitted personal surprise at discovering this limitation in the expiry review, particularly since at the end of the current term of measures “the industry would be living with decisions based on conditions that were 13 or 14 years old”. That, he reflected, was “maybe a weakness in our legal system”.

Anders Karlsson, though, robustly challenged delegates on their responsibilities under ISO quality systems to ensure traceability of the products saying: “You should know where your products are coming from,” only marginally ameliorating the impact by adding wryly, ”OK, I am cheeky now, but it is true.”

Circumvention he continued was a real problem, but he likened the situation to a speed limit saying: ”If you are speeding and are caught you have to pay – circumvention works the same way.”

Anders Karlsson, EIFI president Turning away from the contention of trade defence Anders Karlsson highlighted the accelerated globalisation of fastener company ownership, noticeably within the last 18 months, as one of a number of significant trends in the industry. “Size does matter,” he continued. “We are going to see bigger and bigger companies to take advantage of economies of scale.” Another

46

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

prevalent trend is towards greater specialisation as a way for some companies to succeed against the increased scale of competitors. Nevertheless he also saw a continued trend of small entrepreneurs entering the market, particularly in eastern Europe.

“What can EFDA and EIFI do together?” he asked. “We have a big line between us”, referring to trade defence, but “should we not continue to talk?”

“Myself, I hate when people talk about the ‘simple screw’.

We should promote our industry at every chance we have. This is an interesting industry. We have 50,000 people in European fastener manufacturing; you have probably the same number in distribution. Yes, we compete against each other sometimes but I see more similarities between us than I see differences.”

The second half of the conference reflected a longstanding strength of EFDA, on which the current president has further built, namely its relationships with associations in the United States and in Taiwan.

Kevin Reidl, the immediate past president of the National Fastener Distributors Association, gave a perceptive ‘Overview of the US economy and the US fastener industry’. He noted NFDA had strengthened partnerships with regional associations in North America. He also described NFDA’s success in supporting the development of younger professionals in the US fastener industry. Amongst other key initiatives he credited these developments as contributors to the two years of growth experienced by the the NFDA. “The future of our organisation is very strong” he emphasised.

“ Myself, I hate when people talk about the ‘simple screw’.

We should promote our industry at every chance we have.

This is an interesting industry.”

Turning to trends in the US fastener market Mr Reidl noted continued strong growth in the US automotive sector but said the construction sector had been significantly slower to recover from the financial crisis and was “still nowhere near 2007/2008” – with activity likely to slow later in 2015 before returning to growth. Industrial machinery orders were also expected to soften

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A S S O C I AT I O N S in 2015. Defence spending, although not impacted in 2007/2008 had subsequently slowed and its fortunes were dependent on the future US administration. Aerospace in contrast was experiencing strong growth but also rapid and significant consolidation. The oil and gas sector had definitely slowed as a result of the current oversupply position, particularly hitting fastener businesses in key states such as Texas, Oklahoma, and on the Gulf of Mexico.

Echoing Anders Karlsson’s comments, Kevin Reidl also noted accelerating globalisation in the fastener industry. He commented on widespread ‘lean’ initiatives as US fastener companies built greater efficiency into the supply chain and tightened working capital and inventory control. “Consolidation will accelerate,” Kevin Reidl concluded, in the fastener industry and also in the industrial sector overall, because capital was currently cheap and readily available.

Mr Chen was emphatic that the Taiwanese fastener industry was constantly improving both its quality and reliability through strong levels of investment. “We have proven that Taiwan’s fastener industry is different from that of China.”

Mr Chen also emphasised the importance of Taiwan’s ‘cluster’ approach. More than 1,000 factories were located in a 30 square kilometre area, with all the support services, including steel supply, tooling, plating and machine suppliers, close by.

Returning to the vexed issue of circumvention Yuan-Guei Ho, from the Taiwanese Ministry of Economic Affairs, outlined actions taken by Taiwanese authorities to tighten procedures for the issue of certificates of origin, emphasising serious penalties that could be applied to both exporters and issuing agencies in the event of abuse. Concluding, Mr Ho stressed that Taiwan had an “open door” to EU custom authorities to cooperate in the eradication of circumvention activity.

“ Consolidation will accelerate in the fastener industry…”

Kevin Reidl, NFDA Following Kevin Reidl were a series of shorter presentations

by EFDA guests from Taiwan. Bill Chen and Ivan Lin, respectively president and chairman of the International Committee of the Taiwan Fastener Trading Association, presented a report on the ‘Current status of the Taiwanese fastener industry’. They described the membership of the TFTA, two-thirds of which are fastener manufacturers, the balance being exporters and service providers. Taiwan’s 2014 fastener exports totalled some 1.6 million tonnes, valued at US$4.25 million (3.8 million euros) – representing 10% year-on-year growth. Ivan Lin noted that while raw material prices for fastener producers had fallen, tighter environmental controls had driven up the cost of plating.

Joe Chen, former chairman of the Taiwan Industrial Fastener Institute, concentrated on “Why we are special”, explaining that 90% of Taiwan’s fastener output was exported making it the world’s fourth largest fastener exporter. “We must maintain our competitive advantage in the international market in order to survive,” he said. Newly released Quarter 1 data showed exports continuing to grow robustly, with a 5% increase over Q1 2014. Comparing Taiwan’s fastener industry with that of China, he believed data from the China Fastener Industry Association underestimated export volumes from the mainland.

48

Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

The final speaker in an intensive afternoon was Byron Maniatis, of Jones Day, a Brussels legal practice specialising in trade defence issues. He also spoke on ‘Anti-dumping and anticircumvention on fasteners’. Mr Maniatis revealed that China had lodged a request for an interim review (the only mechanism by which the level of anti-dumping tariffs might be varied) but the European Commission had found the request was not supported with sufficient information. In 2014 China also lodged compliance proceedings with the World Trade Organisation claiming the EU had not fulfilled its obligations following the 2011 WTO panel ruling. A WTO ruling will be issued to the parties in the dispute shortly, although not released generally until at least May. China appeared to be waiting for this outcome before considering its position on the interim review. Mr Maniatis also noted that certain EU court cases due shortly for judgement were “worth watching” as they included arguments based on WTO law.

He believed the WTO compliance dispute would most likely result in a negotiated solution.

Looking at other factors that could influence anti-dumping tariffs on fasteners, Mr Maniatis explored the potential for China to be accorded Market Economy Status in 2016, a change that fundamentally affects the calculation of anti-dumping duty levels.

Interpretation of the wording of China’s WTO accession protocol in this respect differed and Mr Maniatis said the “situation was unclear” and eventually was most likely to be a political decision involving not just the EU but the US and other governments.

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EXHIBITIONS

Fastener Fair Stuttgart sees further growth Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2015, the three day international exhibition for the fastener and fixing industry, saw a total of 11,090 visitors walk the halls of Messe Stuttgart on 10th – 12th March, a 4% increase on the 2013 show.

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total of 833 exhibitors from 42 countries covered a net exhibition space of 18,500m2 – with the exhibition fully booked. Compared to the last exhibition this amounted to an increase in exhibition space of 15%.

The range of exhibits at this year’s show included industrial fasteners and fixings, construction fixings, assembly and installation systems, and fastener manufacturing technology.

The exhibition attracted trade visitors from all over the world, with 60% of visitors travelling to Stuttgart from abroad to discover the latest industry trends, build international trade networks and source new products and systems.

The most important visitor countries after Germany (40% of all visitors) were Italy, Great Britain, France and Poland.

As a consequence, the number of international visitors increased compared to the previous event. In addition, the quality of visitors increased as well – the attendance of top management and visitors with decision making capacity increased by 10%.

“The busy atmosphere at Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2015 reflects the overall positive outlook of the industry. We are particularly delighted to be able to say that many exhibitors reported on lively trading activity and networking taking place throughout the four exhibition halls,” explains Nicola Hamann, managing director of the organisers – Mack Brooks Exhibitions.

The next Fastener Fair Stuttgart will be held from th 28 – 30th March 2017 at Messe Stuttgart.

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TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION All the fixings you need Always ask for the best quality for your work.

Always ask for G&B quality.

www.gebfissaggi.com • info@gebfissaggi.com

HECO-UNIX-top Cladding Screw – The unique cladding screw with contraction effect

Thanks to the contraction effect, the thread draws the timberwork onto the sub-structure

The timber components are fixed axially via the full thread Simple, concealed fastening thanks to the small head

Higher loads can be archieved to partial thread screws HECO-Schrauben GmbH & Co. KG Dr.-Kurt-Steim-Straße 28, D-78713 Schramberg Tel.: +49 (0)7422 / 989-0, Fax: +49 (0)7422 / 989-200 E-Mail: info@heco-schrauben.de, Internet: www.heco-schrauben.com

EXHIBITIONS

Showing its calibre…

Fastener Fair Stuttgart once again showed its credentials as the leading global event for the fastener and fixing industry – creating the perfect environment for three days of sustained and productive business:

“ Even though our booth was double the size of the previous shows, it was always full of interested visitors.”

Johannes Heye, Pgb Europe

“ Fastener Fair Stuttgart is getting more and more popular and becoming a central meeting point for the worldwide fastener industry.”

Tobias Grobe, HEICO Befestigungstechnik GmbH

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

“ …the quality of the visitors was really good.”

Michael Dietz, Flaig + Hommel GmbH Verbindungselemente

“ We received lots of interesting international visitors to our stand...”

Claudia Beggiato, Imanpack Packaging and Eco Solutions SpA

www.fastenerandfixing.com

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EXHIBITIONS

“ Great show!”

Marco Manassero, Manassero & C Srl

“ We had visitors from more than 29 different countries.”

Isaac Ciordia, Remaches Tudela S.L

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

“ The quality of visitors was first rate, we met lots of professionals from the industry all in one go.”

Holly Wilkinson, Tite-Fix Ltd

“ The visitor quality was very high.”

Michele Napolitano, Dimac Srl

www.fastenerandfixing.com

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EXHIBITIONS

Innovation the winner One of the many attractions at the recent Fastener Fair Stuttgart was the opportunity to assess new products and services that exhibitors have brought to the market – via the Fastener Technology Innovator Competition.

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astener + Fixing Magazine once again sponsored the Fastener Technology Innovator Competition and had the unenviable task of deciding which of the nineteen entrants of high calibre innovative technologies should be awarded the accolade of Fastener Technology Innovator 2015.

After studying all of the innovations, it was a unanimous decision that the first place award should be given to Phillips Screw Company for its External MORTORQ® Super bolt design. The new wrenching system is a high performance lightweight replacement for hex head, bi-hex, and six lobed bolt head designs in both aerospace and automotive.

First introduced as a weight savings option for high performance special alloy aerospace bolts the External MORTORQ Super bolt design reduces head height by 20% compared to the 12-point bolt it replaced. In addition, the new design provides 1.4 times the drive surface contact area and 2.5 times the removal surface contact for improved torque transmission and assured serviceability and maintenance. Weight savings were 30lbs (13.6kg) per 1,000 pieces compared to the original ¾ inch (19mm) diameter bi-hex head multiphase alloy bolt.

Second place was awarded to fischer Deutschland Vetriebs GmbH for its greenline range – including six plugs and one two-component injection resin – which reflects the company’s longstanding concern for sustainability and environmental protection.

All greenline products are made from at least 50% renewable primaries. The base for synthetic components is castor oil, which does not compete with food or animal feed crops. The regenerative material share is certified

by DIN CERTCO/ TÜV Rheinland as belonging to the ‘BIOBASED 50-85%’ category.

Regg Rolling, a division of Regg Inspection Srl, received the third place award for its R40 HD ‘High Speed’ two-dies cylindrical thread rolling machine – which has a production rate of up to 60 parts/min and can roll threads with diameters ranging from ½ inch to 3 inches.

The machines range from 40kN up to 1,000kN force for the widest range of applications – from a small high precision, high-tensile aerospace fastener to large threaded bars for the oil and power transmission industries. A new PLC control also helps to reduce set-up and cycle times.

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1st place: Phillips Screw Company

2nd place: fischer Deutschland Vetriebs GmbH

3rd place: Regg Rolling, a division of Regg Inspection Srl

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EXHIBITIONS

‌strength in depth The array of new products entered into the 2015 Fastener Technology Innovator Competition, underlined the continued commitment to product innovation across the global fastener industry.

Pictured is a selection of those entrants who might not have received an award, but successfully showcased their dedication to innovation.

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

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EXHIBITIONS

A decade of innovations Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2015 marked the 10th anniversary of the Fastener Technology Innovator Competition – a key platform for innovations and new technology in the fastener industry. Here we look back at some of the previous Fastener Technology Innovator award winners and the successful products:

Rivit Srl: Award winner in 2005 Rivit Srl has always considered the Fastener Technology Innovator Competition an important part of Fastener Fair Stuttgart, and has entered a product in every competition – showcasing the Rivit brand, technology and quality.

The company won a 3rd place award at the very first Fastener Technology Innovator Competition, in 2005, for its RIV509 – a tool for blind bolts. A decade later, RIV509 is still a leading product within the range of tools for fasteners.

A hydropneumatic tool designed to place Rivlock and Rivlock grip blind bolts up to diameter of 10mm, RIV509 operates with both a very strong pull and reverse force, which is necessary to make the ejection of the collar possible.

“In 2005 these features enabled us to win an award and ten years later they are still a key factor in the tool’s popularity in the market.”

Rapierstar Ltd: Award winner in 2007 Rapierstar Ltd entered the 2007 Fastener Technology Innovator Competition to highlight the capabilities of its bi-metallic self-drilling screw and how it eliminates the need for separate drilling and tapping operations.

Enabling faster, more economical installations.

The company received the 3rd place award thanks to the innovative features of its bi-metallic self-drilling screw, such as a hardened carbon steel tip, fused with a softer, inert, austenitic stainless steel thread and head. The screw also features a Phillips and square ‘stick fit’ recess driver for added performance and to ensure safe and easy installation.

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E.U.R.O Tec GmbH & Co KG: Award winner in 2007 and 2009 E.U.R.O Tec has won two Fastener Technology Innovator awards. The first of which was a 2nd place award in 2007 for the IdeeFix wood connector – an innovative solution for quick and easy assembly of hidden wood connections with high load capacity for tensile and transverse loads.

E.U.R.O Tec explains that this type of connection has a low weakening effect on the structure of the timber joist and can be retightened and removed at any time.

The system can also be used for single or multiple row serial connections and is available in three different dimensions. It comes with all the necessary system screws and has received a European Technical Approval (ETA – 14/0160).

Ferodom s.r.o: Award winner in 2009 A lot has happened in the five years since the IstLock® safety nut from Ferodom s.r.o received its 3rd place Fastener Technology Innovator award.

A key development has been that Ferodom, based in Slovakia, has extended the application of the well established and certified locking system to wheel nuts for trucks and lorries, as well as a variety of other applications affected by dynamic loads or vibration.

The IstLock provides effective protection against vibration as well as dynamic stress in the axial and radial direction. The locking system also has a low dependence on the friction coefficient and offers a high repeatability of usage – as the locking plastic ring can be easily replaced by hand with a new one with the same original characteristics.

“Originally the majority of our customers were from Slovakia, but thanks to the Fastener Technology Innovator award we received at Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2009, we have been able to increase our customer base around the world.”

EXHIBITIONS Tite-Fix Ltd: Award winner in 2005, 2007, 2009 and 2011 The most successful Fastener Technology Innovator participant is UK-based Tite-Fix Ltd, which has won a total of four awards.

Heinz Soyer GmbH & Co KG: Award winner in 2013 Heinz Soyer GmbH & Co KG won a 1st place Fastener Technology Innovator award in 2013 for its SRM patented stud welding in a rotating magnetic field system.

After Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2013, the SRM technology was successfully introduced in the fastener and fixing industry thanks to the technical and economic benefits it offered compared to other joining processes. Furthermore it enabled product quality and product safety to be significantly increased.

By winning the first place award, the SRM welding system attracted international attention and led to a growing demand from metal processing industries such as machine, plant, vehicle and container construction.

The Fastener Technology Innovator award also gave Heinz Soyer a strong incentive to further develop and optimise the SRM patented welding system.

Those awards include 2nd place in 2005 for its Screw-Tite® universal screw; 1st place in 2007 for its Tongue-Tite® screws (pictured right); 2nd place in 2009 for its Adjust-Tite®; and 3rd place in 2011 for its Clad-Tite®.

“The Fastener Technology Innovator award correlates perfectly with what we at Tite-Fix try to do,” explains Michael Wilkinson of Tite-Fix Ltd. “We look to offer the market products to solve application problems. That is why we are always eager to enter the competition. Having a product accepted for entry proves we are on the right track with regards to our ethos.”

Since winning the awards, Tite-Fix says that the products have successfully established themselves within the fastener market.

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Since 1929 has been specialising in fastener technology. With a competent team of 16 staff and our own procurement and QA organisation in Asia, we are partner to manufacturers and distributors. With the capacity to warehouse over 4.500 pallets we offer all the logistics services which are customary in the sector to customers. As a certified organisation, we are familiar with all current sampling and QA processes.

We are looking forward to a productive partnership with you.

EXHIBITIONS

Dates set for Fastener Fair Turkey 2016 The third edition of Fastener Fair Turkey will take place on 30th – 31st March 2016, once again at the IFM – Istanbul Expo Centre, with organisers already reporting very strong demand for stand space.

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ollowing the success of the 2014 show, some 60 companies have confirmed their participation at Fastener Fair Turkey 2016, with around 1,600m² already booked. In response, Fastener Fair Turkey 2016 will occupy two halls – Halls 9 and 10 at the IFM – to provide additional stand space.

A total of 1,700 managers, engineers and buyers visited the highly successful Fastener Fair Turkey 2014, which took place from 20th – 21st November 2014. The 2014 show was the second of these events to take place in Turkey, setting a pattern intended to see it return every two years.

The mix of visitors to the 2014 show reflected the diversity of markets served by the fastener and fixing industry. Half of visitors were either wholesalers (25%) or distributors (25%), all playing a vital role in the supply chain to resellers and end users. Around 21% were end users themselves. Fastener and fixing manufacturers accounted for the remaining 29% of those attending.

The number of suppliers of fastener and fixing products and systems taking part in Fastener Fair Turkey 2014 was 130, filling the venue’s Hall 11. While 45% of exhibitors were foreign companies representing twelve countries, participation by Turkish firms increased compared to the 2013 show, confirming that Fastener Fair Turkey is now established as the reference point for the market in this country.

Among foreign nations strongly represented were Germany, Italy, France, Spain, China and Taiwan, while companies from Croatia, Denmark, India, Norway, the UK and the USA also took part.

Taiwan Hardware Show – 15 years of innovation

Screwfix LIVE in September Screwfix has announced that its third Screwfix LIVE Trade and DIY Show will once again take place in partnership with the Totally Shows organiser, Brintex.

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Building on last year’s success, the 15th Taiwan Hardware Show will take place at the Greater Taichung International Expo Center from 12th – 14th October 2015.

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how organiser Kaigo Co Ltd is confident in another successful show for both exhibitors and visitors. With only six months to go, 90% of exhibition space has already been booked and over 350 international and domestic manufacturers will bring their best and brightest to the show.

The Taiwan Hardware Show emphasises ‘quality goods, made in Taiwan’ and encourages participating companies to enter global markets. International visitors to Taiwan Hardware Show 2015 can apply for a government supported subsidy programme.

“The exhibition is held in Taichung – Taiwan’s most important hardware cluster – making the visit a time effective trip for buyers who want to go from the airport to the show and then straight to the manufacturers.”

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crewfix LIVE 2015 will return to its launch venue – FIVE (Farnborough International Venue & Events) located at Farnborough Airport in Hampshire, UK – for its third year and will run from Friday 25th September until Sunday 27th September.

Totally Shows organiser Brintex has been selected once again in a partner agreement to consult on all aspects of the show and to run the operations and logistics to deliver the exhibitor and visitor experience.

Andy Newman, Screwfix LIVE operations manager, commented: “Brintex did a great job for us last year when we went to Event City in Manchester and we are delighted to reappoint them for our 2015 show.”

Paul Grinsell, Brintex and Totally Shows exhibition director, said: “We’re delighted to be reappointed to partner with Screwfix on their third show. Our joint experience in the sector together with our organisation and operation skills worked very well last year, and we’re looking forward to improving on that at Farnborough in September.”

Screwfix LIVE 15 is a tradesman and consumer DIY show featuring product demonstrations and competitions from the best known brands in the Screwfix supplier line up.

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BUSINESSES

The iconic ‘Wing’ at the Silverstone circuit, in Northamptonshire, UK, played host to the fourth Troy Means Business show on 23rd April 2015, organised by leading industrial buying group – Troy (UK) Ltd.

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ith over 700 people in attendance throughout the day and 450 people present at the Santander co-sponsored gala dinner at nearby Whittlebury Hall Hotel, the show proved, once again, to be a resounding success and a key date in the industry diary.

With exclusive deals offered to attendees at the show, Troy Means Business (TMB) is a place for members to network and do business with the 145 suppliers that exhibited this year, representing over 1,000 brands. TMB plays host to all the major global brands, as well as many UK based businesses including this year’s show sponsors Makita, Draper Tools, Toolbank and Dormer Pramet.

Some lucky members were able to test their driving skills at the Silverstone 4x4 and Rally experience throughout the day. Show attendees also had the chance to see a Britcar practice taking place next to the exhibition hall on the world famous racing circuit, in preparation for a 24 hour endurance race.

Troy has over 250 independent distributor outlets servicing the aerospace, automotive, nuclear, general engineering, industrial and trade sectors. The buying group has experienced substantial growth in the last six months following a major investment deal with Santander, which has seen member numbers increased by 10% since January this year.

Commenting on the event, chief executive of Troy (UK) Ltd, Paul Kilbride, said: “The show was once again a resounding success. It was bigger than ever before and each year we hear from members and suppliers about how valuable they find the day. With great deals on offer we know many orders are secured at the show alongside some high-quality light entertainment, which shows why the TMB event is now a key fixture in the industry calendar.”

MDA174O-witu15-Fast-92x135-2.ai

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23/4/15

1:20 pm

the specialist in security & tamper-resistant fasteners T: +44 (0)1686 621 300 E: info@hafrenfasteners.com W: hafrenfasteners.com

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FA C E 2 FA C E

Concentrating on China We invited Mr Feng Jin Yao, chairman of the China Fastener Industry Association, to give us an insight into the Chinese fastener industry – the major challenges and opportunities it faces over the coming years – and the role the China Fastener Industry Association holds within the industry.

Please give us a brief history of the CFIA and the role it now plays for the Chinese fastener industry.

“Founded in 1987, the China Fastener Industry Association (CFIA) is one of the earliest nationwide industry organisations, which was established during China’s ‘opening-up’ and reform period.

During this period, gears, springs, chains, powder metallurgy and power connections, as well as other basic parts, were merged into the China Fastener Industry Association – leading to the China General Machine Components Industry Association (CMCA) being established. Now the China Fastener Industry Association works as a fastener sub association of CMCA and is the only representative and authoritative industrial association for the Chinese fastener industry.

The CFIA has a membership of more than 2,000 fastener enterprises and has ten local branches in different provinces and cities, including Shanghai, Zhejiang, Guangdong, Anhui and Chongqing.”

What were the key statistics for fastener production in China during 2014? Can you compare the trend with previous years and also tell us about export trends.

“Through structural adjustment, China’s economy has entered a normal state of steadiness with benign improvement. In 2014, the Chinese fastener industry was moving ahead steadily.

Its fastener output reached around 7.2 million tonnes, up 5.88% from the previous period. Sales reached Rmb71 billion (US$11.6 billion), up 5.2%. The export volume reached 2.8 million tonnes, up 9.4% from the previous period, and foreign exchange reached US$5.28 billion, up 13% from the previous period.

With China’s structural adjustment and rapid growth, as well as the demand for high strength and high added value products, the volume of fastener import increased. The import of high-end fasteners reached 308,000 tonnes, up 12.8% from the previous period, and the import value reached US$3.46 billion, up 15.3% from the previous period. The average import price of fasteners per tonne was US$11,233 – six times higher than that of the export products.”

What are the major challenges and opportunities facing the Chinese fastener industry over the coming years?

“Reform, innovation, structural adjustment, and steady growth, have become the key factors of the Chinese fastener industry and China’s overall economic development. The Chinese fastener industry needs to closely follow the national development strategy of ‘one belt and one road’, which looks to realise the potential of industrial modernisation and new urbanisation, to help it grow larger and stronger.

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The Chinese fastener industry needs to focus on the automotive, new energy, aerospace, railway, city traffic, electronic appliances, as well as building and repair industries. The new urbanisation and civilian welfare construction of ‘one belt and one road’ will bring new development for the fastener industry to consolidate domestic needs.

China’s economic development brings a massive market for the fastener industry. China’s economy remains at a medium to high GDP growth of 7% – 8%. The market value is estimated to reach US$13 billion in 2016, at an average growth of 3% – 5%. To sum up, China’s fastener market demand is tremendous.”

How will the CFIA lead and support its membership over this period?

“The China Fastener Industry Association listens to the voice of the Chinese fastener industry and ensures effective communication with the Chinese government. We inform fastener businesses about the Chinese national industrial policy and product development direction through our official website and magazine. Thanks to our five year development plan for the Chinese fastener industry, we are able to encourage companies to embrace technological innovation and industry transformation.

The CFIA also helps to organise Chinese fastener companies that wish to participate in various exhibitions at home and abroad – so that they can collect technical information and further develop their experience.

Finally, we also host the ‘National Fastener Economy Trade and Technical Symposium’ once a year to provide an opportunity for deeper communication and to help promote the healthy development of the Chinese fastener industry.”

What are the plans for the Shanghai International Fastener Expo this year?

“The 6th edition of Fastener Expo Shanghai will take place from 25th – 27th June 2015 at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Centre. Since its introduction, Fastener Expo Shanghai has won support from numerous fastener companies and industry associations, both home and abroad, with the rising popularity proving its success. Total exhibitors for the 2015 show is estimated to reach 1,000, which will mean it will be the biggest fastener show in Asia.

In addition to the show, there is also the Global Fastener Industry CEO Summit – which will once again take place alongside Fastener Expo Shanghai on 26th June 2015.

We are looking to establish Fastener Expo Shanghai as a worldwide fastener exhibition by attracting more and more foreign exhibitors and visitors, and by learning from the successful experiences at other excellent international fastener shows.”

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INSIGHT

TR Fastenings welcomes China Fastener Industry Association TR Fastenings, the trading business arm of Trifast plc, recently welcomed Mr Feng Jin Yao, chairman of the China Fastener Industry Association (CFIA), to its headquarters in Sussex – on his first visit to the UK.

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s one of the world’s top producers and distributors of industrial components, TR Fastenings plays a key role as both an industry innovator and ambassador, and the visit, hosted by Trifast CEO Jim Barker, provided the ideal opportunity to discuss current global trade issues in the fastener sector.

Accompanied by his colleagues Mr Jinyao Wu, Mr Shen Jia Hua, and Ella Leung, Mr Feng Jin Yao was also taken on a private tour of TR’s manufacturing plant in Uckfield, which produces over 750,000 components a week, and shown the company’s extensive 20,000 square footage of warehouse and distribution space.

China is one of the world’s largest manufacturers and distributors of fasteners, exporting over US$700 million worth in 2014. The China Fastener Industry Association was formed in 1984 and plays a crucial role in the governance of this vast

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industry. Mr Feng Jin Yao commented: “We were honoured to be invited by Jim Barker to visit TR Fastenings and would like to thank him and his team for the opportunity to learn more about manufacturing high-quality products and the latest trends in fastener technology. TR is a globally important presence in the industry and we look forward to developing our friendship and trade links between our two countries.”

“It was a great privilege to host our ‘old friend’ Mr Feng and his colleagues,” commented Jim Barker. “TR Fastenings has two manufacturing plants in China and we are keen to do more business with Chinese fastener manufacturers in the future.

The visit was an excellent opportunity to talk about international trade and how it is essential that the fastener industry works together globally for its mutual benefit.”

INSIGHT

Looking forward with anticipation Having recently been appointed as UK wholesaler for BUMAX®, as well as being in the final stages of moving to a new warehouse that will triple storage capacity, Precision Technology Supplies Ltd is poised and eager to take the next step in its development.

E

stablished in 1988, Precision Technology Supplies (PTS) initially stocked micro screws and American parts, before gradually expanding its range to cover an extensive selection of products and sizes (from M1 to M52/0un to 2 inch) – including screws, nuts, bolts and washers, all available in stainless steel.

“Since the very beginning we have looked to develop new product ranges and expand our size capability,” explains Jason Collyer, managing director at PTS. “Thanks to our ability to monitor the demand within the market, and through listening to customers’ requirements, we have been able to continuously introduce products that not only complement our existing range, but also meet the needs of our customers.”

PTS’ continuous development of its portfolio has seen it recently make a high profile addition – the exclusive BUMAX® range of stainless steel fastener products, which it became the UK wholesaler for as of 1st May. “We are really excited to introduce BUMAX to the PTS stock programme,” beams Jason.

“BUMAX is a truly unique product, rightly recognised as the ‘world’s strongest stainless steel bolt’, which offers extraordinary performance in critical and demanding applications.”

How did PTS achieve such a coup? “Bufab was looking for a new option for distribution in the UK. We were approached and

“ We are really excited to introduce BUMAX® to the PTS stock programme.”

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asked if we were interested and we didn’t hesitate. BUMAX is simply an awesome product, and to be associated with the brand is an absolute honour. We have always strived to work with the best manufacturers in the world and to supply the highest quality products, and they don’t come much better than BUMAX. The range fits in very well with our current portfolio of products and reinforces that we are intent on supplying the right products, at the right time and at the right price.”

BUMAX will be available from stock for any box quantity and with next day delivery service where possible. “We want to ensure that we have the availability and that we make it as simple as possible for customers to get the BUMAX products that they need,” enthuses Jason. “We intend to grow the brand with Bufab and are confident that combining BUMAX’s unique performance capabilities, with our commitment to service excellence, will prove a winning formula.”

PTS was flying the flag for BUMAX at the recent Fastener Fair Stuttgart, where the range received a lot of interest from visitors.

“We had a lot of smiling faces visiting our stand when they saw we would be stocking BUMAX,” says Jason. “We had a mix of new and current customers asking us what BUMAX products we will be able to supply and when. We also had some very positive leads for other products in our range. Overall it was an exceptional show for us.”

To add to the excitement of the BUMAX range, PTS is also in the final stages of moving into a new warehouse, which will take its storage capacity from 11,000 square foot to 30,000 square foot. “We have been at the current site for 12 years and we have simply ran out of space,” mentions Jason. “Over the years we have expanded into the building next to us and added an additional unit to the front of the building – which was only built three years ago. However, we are already full and with nowhere to build or expand, it was necessary to move to new premises.”

Situated on the same road as the current facility, PTS is making some small modifications to the new warehouse before making the move. These include extending the racking capabilities and converting the offices into an open plan layout.

The schedule is to move into the new premises at the end of May, during the UK bank holiday, so that customers experience minimal disruption.

“Moving to a warehouse that is triple the size is a big step, but we did not make the decision lightly,” explains Jason.

“We are confident in our own abilities and have the products and employees to continue to expand, whilst at the same time making sure that the products in stock, are the right quality.”

An additional benefit of the move is that PTS has the

INSIGHT opportunity to assess all of its warehouse procedures and to gauge where efficiencies can be made. “We have analysed all our processes and looked at how we can enhance the service we provide,” says Jason. “We have also invested in new forklifts, new racking, a new telephone system, and will be looking to take on extra staff. All of which will help us give the customer a better service.”

The commitment to supplying only the highest quality products and service has been a key factor in PTS’ success. This is underlined by how selective the company is when partnering with manufacturers. “We only use manufacturers that we are 100% confident in and that we know will be able to guarantee the reliable production of products,” says Jason. “It is only by ensuring that you are getting the right products, and working with the right manufacturers, that you can be confident in the service you provide customers.”

As well as guaranteeing high-quality products, PTS also makes sure that the products are available in stock and delivered quickly to customers as and when they need them. “We work with UPS for all our deliveries,” explains Jason. “There are probably more cost-effective methods on certain routes, but the service that UPS provides is a significant factor for us. Products are traceable and we can be assured that deliveries will get to customers as quickly as possible. We export to over 60 countries and can provide next day delivery to almost anywhere. We can’t quite do yesterday yet, but we are working on it,” adds Jason with a smile.

To make it easier for customers to order products, PTS also has a modern and concise web shop that lists the wide range of products available – including the BUMAX range. The web shop is available in English, Spanish, German, Hindi and Mandarin Chinese.

It offers multi-currency, and gives users full costs of the charges including delivery. There is no sign up required – a user can simply use it as a cash customer. For those customers wanting

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“ Moving to a warehouse that is triple the size is a big step… but we are confident in our own abilities and have the products and employees to continue to expand.” to sign up as a repeat customer there is also an account option.

“We are incredibly proud of our web shop,” says Jason. “We have a wide range of dimensional data available online and our customers are able to see all the products that are available in stock. We work to the ‘shopping basket’ philosophy and the web shop gives customers the opportunity to buy all the products they need from stock, in one order.”

When asked about what has been the most crucial aspect of the business’ growth, Jason is left in no doubt: “Our success is down to every single member of staff. It has been a real team effort and we have all worked extremely hard to get where we are today. We have been established for 28 years and thanks to the dedication of our staff, and the partnerships we have established with both customers and suppliers, we have been able to ensure that we are providing the right products, service and quality.”

“There is a real sense of excitement about what the future will bring,” adds Jason. “The introduction of BUMAX represents an important milestone in our ongoing commitment to develop our product portfolio, and with the major investment and development in our logistics capabilities, we will be able to continue to grow and provide customers with a first class service, supported by the highest quality products – from stock.” www.pts-uk.com

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INSIGHT

Bumax® – starting where standard ends Ask about Bumax® and the most likely – and completely accurately – association will be with manufacturing the “world’s strongest stainless steel bolt”. The brand has been around since 1997 and the Swedish factory that exclusively produces the Bumax range for a lot longer. Despite which there remains a great deal about Bumax that is far from common knowledge even within the fastener industry.

Phil Matten set off for Sweden to discover what Bumax is really about.

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pproximately 200km north of Stockholm, nestled behind the forests surrounding the small village of Åshammar is a fastener factory. At first sight it might not seem particularly remarkable apart, perhaps, for its location. It employs around 60 people and has a not unfamiliar array of production equipment including established workhorses such as the Nedschroef BV boltmaker. The fruits of more recent investment, though, can also be seen in the form of the latest SACMA SP560 progressive header and Ingramatic RP72 thread roller commissioned in 2014.

Actually the location isn’t really that puzzling. This is Sweden’s historic steel making area and nails were forged on this site as far back as the 17th Century. The Åshammar bolt factory was established in 1899, installing its first cold heading former in 1916 and becoming one of the first companies in the world to cold forge stainless steel as long ago as 1926.

Significantly, particularly for the modern company – since 2000 a manufacturing subsidiary of the 235 million euros Bufab Group – Åshammar is just 16km from Sandviken. The town gave its name to one of Sweden’s largest industrial groups and, in particular, Sandvik Materials Technology, a leader in developing and manufacturing some of the most advanced stainless steels and special alloys in the world.

What is truly remarkable about this factory is what it produces – and what it takes to do it. Bumax® legitimately lays claim to manufacturing the world’s strongest stainless bolt – which using the ISO grade system for carbon steel fasteners means performance above and beyond Grade 15.9. That, though, is to focus on a single dimension of a fastener production programme, ranging from M3 to M36 in diameter, which includes a stocked range of high strength and high performance stainless steel fasteners, which have proved their worth in unusual as well as surprisingly simple applications. Beyond that Bumax extends to a set of unique and truly quite extraordinary performance fasteners, manufactured to specific requirements, which ensure critical joint reliability and longevity in the most extreme environments known.

The best starting point to really get to grips with this capability is the Bumax grade selection ‘cross’. Start at the centre with conventional A4 specification fasteners – but let’s be clear, if commercial grade A4 fasteners are genuinely adequate for the job there is no real point in talking about Bumax. Move outward, though, along the four compass points of increasingly extreme demands for mechanical strength, corrosion resistance,

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temperature resistance, and low magnetic permeability, and Bumax comes into its own – until, at the outer limits, it offers unique solutions to resist the most extreme performance demands.

Overstatement?

Try a few statistics.

At the equivalent of Grade 15.9 Bumax® Ultra has a tensile strength of 1,500MPa compared with a typical A4-80 value not much in excess of 800MPa. Available from stock, Bumax® 109 bolts – as the designation suggests, equivalent to Grade 10.9 in carbon steel – have a yield strength of 900MPa and a tensile strength of 1,000MPa but combine that with corrosion resistance that exceeds levels of standard A4-80 due to the high Molybdenum content.

A Bumax® SDX 12.9 ISO 4762 M10 x 100 socket screw – manufactured from Sandvik Super Duplex 1.4410 steel – as well as providing tensile strength of 1,284MPa and yield strength of 1,026MPa, delivers exceptional ductility. It has an elongation of more than 1.5 times its diameter – compare that to A4-70 at 0.4 x diameter. SDX provides excellent corrosion resistance, especially in chloride bearing media with a PRE (Pitting Resistance Equivalent) of 42.

Bumax® Hyper Duplex fasteners are the first to be cold headed from 1.4658 material developed and patented by Sandvik for really aggressive corrosive environments, which are encountered in combination with high mechanical stresses.

Bumax® HDX fasteners possess a PRE of 49 – virtually double the PRE-value of A4-80, outstandingly suiting them for use in severe environments involving hot chlorinated seawater or aggressive acidic, chlorine-containing media encountered in the chemical, oil, gas and petrochemical sectors. Used in an offshore

INSIGHT application, 3,000m below sea surface, the screws have to endure at least 25 years in service. If they don’t, it requires subsea robots to carry out repairs – at truly eyewatering costs.

Bumex® Ultra fasteners, formed from unique, ultra high strength, precipitation hardenable Sandvik steel, offer the extraordinary property of hardening with ageing to strength levels of 3,000MPa. Here corrosion resistance may well not be the primary issue, although Bumax Ultra still maintains similar levels to A4-80.

Bumax Ultra screws recently provided the only solution to persistent breakage in the seemingly mundane application of a lock mechanism. Grade 8.8 socket screws failed rapidly under the repeated transversal forces incurred during locking and unlocking. Escalating to carbon steel 10.9 and then 12.9 screws failed to resolve the issue, with failures after 10,000 repetitions.

Customer fatigue testing of Bumax Ultra class 15.9 stopped at 500,000 repetitions – without a failure.

Recently Bumax asked Sandvik R&D to carry out extended fatigue tests on M6 x 50 ISO 4017 samples in A4-80, Bumax® 88, and Bumax Duplex®. As typical preloads increased to beyond 400±80 only Bumax Duplex exceeded 10 million cycles before fracture. Bumax 88 sustained this level of cycles at 400±55.

Some A4-80 samples fractured within 1.4 million cycles at 400±50 and at 400±55 failure occurred within 0.4 million cycles.

Often fatigue failures under cyclic loading are triggered by microscopic crack formation at stress concentrations, typically surface defects and inclusions in the material. Worth recognising, then, that the starting point to ensuring Bumax performance is the extremely tight tolerance of the wire used to cold form the fasteners. Sandvik and Outokumpu steels are sourced to tightly defined EN standards. ‘Entry level’ Bumax 88 is produced from EN 1.4432 or 1.4435, or 1.4436, austenitic wire in which the maximum allowable carbon content is 0.03.

By comparison ISO 3506 permits A4 wire to hold up to 0.08 carbon, a level that at the discretion of the manufacturer may increase to up to 0.12 to achieve specified mechanical properties for larger diameters. In austenitic stainless steels with a maximum carbon content of 0.03, ISO 3506 permits nitrogen to be present to a maximum of 0.22. For A4 it is also permissible to have up to 4% copper in the alloy.

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Even then Bumax works extremely closely with its steel suppliers, recognising that process and quality control can vary substantially in critical melting, rolling, cooling and annealing processes. For its more demanding and critical wire, Bumax defines additional requirements for a series of key parameters and all incoming materials are closely scrutinised by Bumax’s own quality personnel.

One of the other key differentiators for most Bumax fasteners is that they are cold formed (only diameters beyond M30 are hot forged) and thread rolled. In fact the process of strain hardening often starts earlier in the production cycle with the wire being drawn, either in a specialist drawing area, or inline.

The significance of the manufacturing process is that it confers higher strength, higher fatigue resistance and lower risk of galling (the latter additionally prevented by the application of Bumax’s own specification assembly wax). It is not, though, easy.

Correctly defining the cold forming process, both to achieve the required material characteristics and achieve acceptable levels of tool wear requires exceptional levels of skill, developed over decades of experience, combined with extremely high-levels of metallurgical knowledge.

Incidentally, while talking more about male threaded fasteners bear in mind Bumax® Lock – an all metal lock nut made from the same steel grade as Bumax 88, with a specially designed thread profile, that means the nut is free spinning until tightened when it locks to prevent vibration loosening and increase fatigue resistance.

The arguments for using high strength stainless steel fasteners have become increasingly relevant in many applications – not necessarily just in extreme environments. Size may be reduced, as may weight, with the use of fewer fasteners to achieve the same or greater clamping force, enhancing weight savings and improved installation productivity. Better relaxation and fatigue resistance and increased safety margins are also increasingly important.

Needless to say Bumax possesses a series of quality certificates including ISO/TS 16949 and CE marking to EN 15048 for non-preload applications. Bumax 88 also conforms to the Pressure Equipment Directive PED no 97/23/EC and its strict control from the material origins means Bumax can provide 3.1 and 3.2 certification as required.

The full Bumax programme together with examples of the many challenging application sectors in which it has achieved distinction are detailed online. The Bumax website hosts an interactive version of the Bumax grade selection cross together with many technical downloads. Most importantly, though, is an online contact form to the Bumax technical team, committed to responsively identifying exactly which Bumax solution will best meet your, or your customers, requirements.

Bumax stock products, in Super Duplex, 88 and 109 materials, include hexagon head bolts and screws, hexagon nuts, socket head caps screws, washers, stud bolt and thread forming screws.

In key European markets inventory of Bumax 88 and 109 is also held by approved stockists to provide more economic and responsive availability.

Bumax really does start where standard ends but you might be surprised how often a Bumax solution succeeds in a far from exotic application. www.bumax.se

INSIGHT

Owlett-Jaton’s winning customer service drives demand Owlett-Jaton, part of the Hexstone Group, has identified a change in the profile of its customers’ orders, resulting in an increase in business.

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eflecting on the change in buying patterns, Tony Williams, national sales manager at Owlett-Jaton, commented: “In recent months we have experienced an increase in business, where service and reliability has been fundamental to the decision making process. Customers are reassured by our commitment to exceptional service levels, and this has resulted in more lines per order.”

Due to the increase in demand, Owlett-Jaton has invested heavily into its service promise – a strong selling point for the company. “We have invested GB£250,000 into a warehouse

management system, which is cutting edge for this industry,” mentions Tony.

“The robust system enables orders to be picked both reliably and cost-effectively.

Due to the new system, accuracy and efficiency have significantly improved, giving our customers even more peace of mind.”

Owlett-Jaton has also increased its staffing levels in its sales and warehouse departments, as well as bringing forward orders placed with suppliers. In recent months the company has also increased its product portfolio.

“Product development is always at the forefront of Owlett-Jaton planning,”

says Tony. “We have recently introduced HEICO® locking washers, as well as the PEM® brand of self-clinching fasteners, to the product portfolio. To many of our customers, we have become an extension of their own warehouse. Our 150,000 square foot warehouse stocks all of the essentials, which enables us to offer many industry sectors a ‘one-stop-shop’.”

As well as an ever expanding, comprehensive portfolio, the Owlett-Jaton service promise means that stock is available via next day delivery, with no minimum order charges accounting for the majority of business.

UK first for all six Hexstone businesses For the first time in the UK, all six of the Hexstone businesses will be coming together for the inaugural Torque-Expo exhibition, which will take place from 13th – 14th October 2015 at the state of the art Silverstone Wing of the iconic Grand Prix circuit in Northamptonshire.

A range of Hexstone incentives are also en-route for delegates.

H

exstone is the parent company behind Galaxy Fasteners, Icon Fasteners, JCP Fixings, Owlett-Jaton, Stainless Threaded Fasteners and Unifix. It is a key player in the fastener and fixing industry and will be playing a pivotal role in driving key decision makers, influencers and purchasing managers at the inaugural event.

“We have spent recent years building the Hexstone name and have significantly invested in constructing a brand that brings all of our customer requirements under one roof,” comments Keith Harrison, chief executive at Hexstone. “Until now, our presence at exhibitions and events has been restricted to the attendance of only a selection of the six businesses – due to the target audience. However, we now feel that Torque-Expo offers the perfect opportunity to bring them together in force and ultimately give customers the chance to understand more about the different names within Hexstone that they’re not so familiar with.”

The team at Hexstone are already gearing up with a series of promotions and incentives to entice visitors to the stand and will be releasing more news in the run-up to the event. www.hexstone.co.uk

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INSIGHT

Kobout – supplying efficiency Kobout B.V has been a supplier of fasteners since 1979 – combining highly qualified, service orientated, personnel with a passion for excellent stock management and first-rate logistics.

All of which helps deliver an extensive range of steel and stainless steel fasteners.

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key player in the Dutch market, Kobout supplies more than 25,000 different products from its warehouse facilities of over 9,300 square metres.

The company prides itself on both the scope and depth of its products, which includes bolts, nuts, screws, washers, plates, pins, rivets and threaded rod – the latter of which has a thread angle of 60 degrees; can be cut to measure, depending on customers’ requirements; and is sourced from Belgium to guarantee quality.

Quality is a key focus for the company, all its products are from a network of ISO certified suppliers – selected from around the world – to help ensure that only the highest quality products are sourced. “We have a good working relationship with all our manufacturers and have been partnered with some of them for over 30 years,” explains Jan-Arie de Jong, purchase manager at Kobout. “We understand how important quality is for customers and by working with carefully selected manufacturers, and through third party quality checks, we are able to supply products that are produced to the highest standards – not only in the Netherlands, where we have a very active role, but also across Europe.”

“We have established very good relationships with customers in Scandinavia, Germany, Austria, as well as a variety of other countries,” adds Simon Kodde, joint director at Kobout.

“We can provide one of the biggest stocks of hot dipped galvanised products in Europe, and can import full container loads directly for our customers if they require it.”

In addition to its wide range of standard products, as well as ‘special’ products according to customers’ drawings, Kobout provides a metalworking service that can carry out a variety of secondary operations. Consisting of four cutting machines, two drilling machines, as well as a specially adapted locking nut machine, the metalworking department has helped to further improve the service Kobout can supply to its customers.

“Introducing the metalworking department was a logical step for us as it helped us increase our capabilities and made the buying process for customers a lot more efficient,” says Simon.

“Previously customers who wanted products assembled or secondary operations carried out, had to outsource the work to a third party. Now we are able to offer tailored services according to customers’ individual requirements.”

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Due to the popularity of the metalworking division, Kobout recently introduced a mezzanine floor within the department to help create more space, as well as to increase storage capacity for the packaging department.

“Our packaging department is another example of us listening to the needs of customers,” points out Jan-Arie. “We found that customers were wanting different packaging solutions and by working more closely with them we were able to provide the answers – whether it be special packaging, assortment boxes or sets.”

“ T hrough its range of products, added service, and experienced staff, Kobout is able to provide customers with a wide range of capabilities.”

A unique feature of both the metalworking and packaging departments is that the Kobout employees were hired in cooperation with Ambachtse Bedrijven – a Dutch mental health organisation. Ambachtse Bedrijven helps ensure that people who might otherwise be unable to take part in the regular labour process are offered worthwhile occupation.

It’s more than fasteners Kobout B.V. Nijverheidsweg 43 3341 LJ Hendrik Ido Ambacht The Netherlands T +31 (0)78 684 6611 F +31 (0)78 684 6640 info@kobout.nl

www.kobout.nl

INSIGHT “When we decided to introduce the metalworking and packaging departments we did not hesitate in working with Ambachtse Bedrijven to find the right employees,” adds Joost Kunst, joint director at Kobout. “We believe that everybody should be given an opportunity to work. The employees are a vital addition to our company and add to the existing staff members – who offer vast experience and expert know-how on products and the market.”

“ Kobout has invested in 44 Hänel Lean-Lifts ® – helping to semi-automate incoming and outgoing deliveries.”

Through its range of products, added service, and experienced staff, Kobout is able to provide customers with a wide range of capabilities. However, it is its logistics system that the company says enables it to stand out from the crowd. To add to its traditional shelving and flow racks, which provide space for more than 6,000 pallets, Kobout has invested in 44 Hänel Lean-Lifts® – helping to semi-automate incoming and outgoing deliveries.

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The Hänel Lean-Lifts offer a streamlined storage system, with a computer controlled positioning lift in the centre. In front and behind the lift are storage shelves where the products are stored in height optimised positions. The storage locations are accessed according to what products are requested and delivered to the retrieval area at the bottom of the lift – where an operator picks and packs the product.

“Logistics perfection has become a mantra at the company,” proudly states Jan-Arie. “If you are going to supply 25,000 products in the most effective method possible, you need to have a streamlined and organised logistics centre. The Hänel Lean-Lifts offer high storage density and have helped us improve storage efficiency and retrieval times. We have also seen an increase in order picking performance, as there is less opportunity for mistakes through operator error.”

Kobout also provides an exclusive Kanban and two bin services for specific customers – with dedicated Hänel Lean-Lifts giving customers individual storage facilities. “The Kanban and two bin service is just another example of us providing additional services to our customers,” comments Joost. “We are always looking to create stronger working relationship with customers, as well as make the ordering process as simple as possible.”

It is this drive to answer customers’ needs, and make processes as simply as possible, that has enabled Kobout to establish itself as a supplier of steel and stainless steel fasteners. Thanks to a flat organisational structure and a close-nit team, as well as its semi-automatic logistics operation, Kobout is able to quickly respond to customers’ requirements and supply a streamlined and efficient service. www.kobout.nl

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C O N S T R U CT I O N F I X I N G S

Lindapter: Safely securing steelwork Established in 1934, Lindapter International says that it has built upon its proud history of developing innovative steel connections and is able to apply its proven clamping concept to the building envelope.

Hollo-Bolt® Flush Fit

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esponding to the artistic requirements of contemporary design, Lindapter has created a range of fixings to complement modern construction and façades.

Lindapter fixings are used around the world to connect a wide range of façade materials, cladding, and curtain walls.

External features can also be secured to a structure with speed and the reassurance of independently approved safe working loads.

Other applications include primary and secondary steelwork, balconies, staircases and handrails. Lindapter’s suitability to architectural design is further illustrated with the CE marked Hollo-Bolt® Flush Fit. This Hollo-Bolt is specifically designed to enable an aesthetically pleasing connection as the fixing is concealed within the steelwork with no protruding bolt head.

Lindapter connections also offer a wide range of benefits for on-site contractors. For example, the hot rolled structural sections have inevitable variations in exact dimensions and steel erection techniques have unavoidable tolerances in straightness along the beam length and other dimensions. On-site adjustability is therefore an essential prerequisite of the cladding support system. Lindapter clamping solutions, such as the new type AAF clamp, provide accurate adjustability during installation to allow contractors to slide the bracket or other fixing assembly along the vertical or horizontal structural beam with precise alignment, before tightening with a torque wrench.

Lindapter points out that the type AAF performs excellently in friction applications, and self-adjusts to suit a range of flange thicknesses, allowing a quick and simple installation of large areas of cladding and significantly reduces the period of crane operation.

Other advantages of Lindapter connections include: • Surface coatings are not damaged.

• No on-site drilling or welding.

• ‘Hot working’ permit not required.

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• Less work at height (easier compliance with work at height regulations).

• Only hand tools required to install.

• Reduces design time.

• Site adjustable (easier and faster realignment).

• Guaranteed, independently approved loads.

• Comprehensive technical support by experienced Lindapter engineers.

“As well as steelwork and cavity fixings, the Lindapter range also includes floor fixings and service supports. We are a premium British manufacturer that has industry leading approvals, the highest standard of customer service, extensive technical support – with a free design service for bespoke connections, and a worldwide distributor network.”

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C O N S T R U CT I O N F I X I N G S

Secure fixing for secondary steel connections John Kay, UK sales manager at Kee Safety Ltd – a global supplier of steel to steel connectors, discusses the features and benefits of its leading product range: BeamClamp® and BoxBolt®.

S

ince its launch in 2005, the extensive range of BeamClamp® and BoxBolt® solutions from Kee Safety has gone from strength to strength, with growth all across the world. The BeamClamp and BoxBolt range of fixings are a series of products that provide a secure fixing method for secondary steel connections. The fixings deliver solutions for joining steel together without the need for on-site drilling or welding, providing much more flexibility than traditional methods. They provide a guaranteed connection every time, without the need for on-site verification, as long as the installation guidelines are correctly followed.

BoxBolt® BoxBolt is a blind fixing solution for connecting into hollow sections or where access is restricted to one side only. The system provides an economical solution to making blind connections when compared with traditional methods such as welding or bolting through, and helps eliminate complicated fabrications such as welding internal nuts or providing internal stiffeners to reduce crushing from tightening.

are many other benefits such as a guaranteed load, adjustability, no damage to existing steel or coatings, no hot work permits and no debris created from drilling. These benefits are becoming very important in situations where drilling and welding can create hazards. For example, in a food factory no drilling is permitted over the plant and in an oil refinery a hot work permit is required for making any drilled or welded connections.

BeamClamp® Floor Fixings

BeamClamp® BeamClamp is a series of clamps that are used in conjunction with structural bolts to provide a solution for securing steel together. Kee Safety points out that when all the costs that are required to make a connection are calculated, the clamping system, in the majority of situations, is the most economical, as the installation speed and labour costs are vastly reduced. There

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Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

Key Safety can also supply the BeamClamp® Floor Fixings range, which is hot dip galvanised to provide excellent corrosion resistance. Using these fixings allows for site tolerances and the ability to relocate the connection should it be required. The range consists of FloorFix™, FloorFix™ HT, Grating Clip™ and Gratefix™.

FloorFix HT provides a fixing that suits a wide range of applications. It was designed to fix flooring plates to supporting steelwork from the topside only, without the need for time consuming on-site drilling, tapping, bolting or welding. It works on a cam mechanism that can be operated using a basic hexagon key drive.

This type of system allows steel erectors a high degree of tolerance. It retains all the benefits of Kee Safety’s widely renowned original design, but is far more user-friendly.

FloorFix HT allows for floor plates to be fixed to new steelwork that is erected within +/- 6mm of its intended position. It is capable of fixing to steel flanges from 3mm to 25mm without the need for additional packing pieces.

INDEX presents its new INDEXCal 2.2 INDEX Fixing Systems has introduced INDEXCal 2.2 – a new version of its proprietary software for the calculation of metallic and chemical anchor installation.

I

NDEXCal 2.2 has better graphics and improved software content, with the enhancements based on the requirements of INDEX’s customers and the technical characteristics of its products.

Regarding its graphic appearance, the new INDEXCal 2.2 presents a new 3D interface, which optimises the preview of the installation being calculated. As for its content, the update is a vast improvement on the previous version’s calculation capacity.

INDEXCal 2.2 includes a new calculation method for groups of 2, 3 and 6 anchors with shear loads towards the edge of the concrete base, and incorporates the possibility of installation depth optimisation for chemical anchors. The new version also offers new plates in addition to the 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 anchor rectangular existing plates. The new plates include 8 and 9 rectangular plates; 6 anchor hexagonal plate; 6 anchor round plate; and 3 anchor triangular plate.

INDEXCal 2.2 contains all the products launched in INDEX’s new catalogue, as well as including the company’s vast range of ETA products.

“The new version is available on our website under the Calculation Software section.

Those users who already have INDEXCal installed can update online through the program itself.” www.indexfix.com

Joyner Bolt™ shows its ‘teeth’ Developed by Dan Hardingham and Mark Doye, Joyner Bolt™ offers a single, reliable and guaranteed fixing for joining wood to wood or wood to metal.

F

or installation in timber connections, the Joyner Bolt™ can replace coach bolts or threaded rod. Using a coach bolt to join wood to wood, or wood to metal frequently results in the head of the bolt spinning or being pulled into the timber; or failing to provide a tight joint; or even splitting the wood. Threaded rod can be difficult to cut, difficult to de-burr and difficult to use efficiently in confined spaces.

The Joyner Bolt™ replaces the rounded head of a coach bolt with a flat rectangular head with angled ‘teeth’ that grip the wood around the drilled hole. The shank of the bolt slides through the hole and as the nut is tightened, the teeth bite into the timber resulting in a tight, non-twist joint that is perfect for joists, roof

trusses, stud walls and a host of other wood to wood or wood to metal situations. Joyner Bolt is available from 80mm – 230mm and diameters of M10 – M12.

“Joyner Bolt overcomes every problem associated with coach bolts and threaded rods,” explains Dan Hardingham.

“Even if the drilled hole is oversize, Joyner Bolt’s teeth will bite and hold the bolt securely in place and maintain the integrity of the fixing.”

Mark Doye adds: “Joyner Bolt is a British invention with a worldwide application and is designed for use at all levels of the construction and building industry, including home DIY.”

New injectable mortar for masonry Responding to customer demands, Hilti has launched the HIT-HY 270 injectable mortar for strong, safe and reliable anchoring in a variety of masonry base materials, such as hollow block or natural stone.

S

uitable for indoor and outdoor applications in dry or wet hole conditions, the all-weather attributes of the HIT-HY 270 covers temperatures between -5°C and +40°C (+5°C to +40°C for solid brick). The injectable mortar comes with an European Technical Approval (ETA – 13/1036) for use in hollow and solid masonry, and has been designed to work across a number of applications including: Fastenings in hollow and solid masonry; refurbishment and renovation projects; façade tie-backs to masonry structural walls; structural strengthening of old masonry walls; heavy bracing of items; and glass balustrade assemblies.

In hollow base materials Hilti recommends that the HIT-HY 270 is used with Hilti HIT-SC composite mesh sleeves and Hilti HIT-V anchor rods, which allow the operator to simply inject the mortar and push the rod into the sleeve. Modular sleeves can be used individually or clicked together for deeper embedment.

“Anchoring into masonry has long been an issue in the marketplace and one that has troubled our customers,” says Carlos Taborda, northern Europe product manager (anchors) for Hilti. “They challenged us to find the best possible solution and it was up to us to respond.”

Carlos adds: “The result covers many different masonry base layers, possesses all-weather properties and, perhaps most importantly, carries an ETA for peace of mind. Users know it will perform reliably, even when the size and location of bricks and voids are unknown.”

For the most cost-effective use of its mortars, the company also recommends the Hilti HDE 500-A22 cordless electric dispenser, which allows automatic control of the volume dispensed to avoid over dispensing whilst also minimising waste through an automatic piston return that prevents dripping.

www.fastenerandfixing.com

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C O N S T R U CT I O N F I X I N G S

GripIt® appoints global distributor GripIt® has announced that RS Components has become its preferred distribution partner for the second generation of the GripIt fixing – a revolutionary and universal plasterboard fixing.

RS Components has exclusive rights to the distribution of this new generation of GripIt for two months.

G

ripIt® fixings are easy to use – comprising a circular plastic plug with a pair of metal locking wings. The GripIt is inserted into a hole of the same diameter and tapped with a hammer to engage anti-rotation tabs.

It is then screwed in place. GripIt can be used on rendered or unrendered cavity walls, double thickness plasterboard, insulated plasterboard, or dot and dab walls.

RS is stocking the full range of GripIt fixings, available in four sizes from 15mm diameter to 25mm. The fixings are colour coded and available in various depths suitable for wall attachment thickness from 9.5mm up to 15mm.

For RS, the GripIt was an obvious addition to its product range as the fixing provides a stronger anchor capable of handling loads of up to 180kg.

“We’re dedicated to providing products to our customers which solve day-to-day challenges, making their

lives easier,” commented Ben Lawton, head of category at RS Components. “The GripIt is an innovative, new to market product offering high loading capabilities, ease of installation and consistent reliability to rival the traditional plasterboard fixing.”

Jordan Daykin, the teenage entrepreneur who invented the GripIt with his grandfather Stan Daykin, had previously appeared on the UK television series – Dragons’ Den – asking for investment in the GripIt fixing and his manufacturing business based in Wiltshire. After pitching for two hours, Jordan’s passion and knowledge gained the respect of Dragon Deborah Meaden, and Jordan became the youngest entrepreneur to receive an GB£80,000 investment.

The idea behind the GripIt fixing came about after Jordan and Stan struggled to secure a blind to a window of a converted garage at Stan’s home. The gap between the plasterboard and the steel lintel was too narrow and the drill bits kept snapping. The fixings available on the market at the time were not robust enough to secure the blind – so Jordan and Stan invented the GripIt. “GripIt solves a problem encountered everyday, all over the world, and we’re keen to bring our solution to the global market,“ explains Jordan. “RS has the global reach with a large customer base of installers and engineers. With this business relationship we feel we are on our way to achieving our ambitious goals.” www.uk.rs-online.com

• Takes heavier loads • New quick fix design • Removable and reusable • Easy and quick to install • Fits 9.5 -15mm thick Plasterboard • Ideal for Dot & Dab Walls • 100% Universal • 1 fixing holds up to 180kg

Going Global with RS Components

#gripitworldwide

uk.rs-online.com

SMART® anchor calculation software A new anchor calculation program from pgb-Polska offers users a variety of features to make it easier to select the correct SMART® anchor.

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he anchor calculation program uses designs according to SMART® ETAs, European Guideline ETAG 001 Annex C, as well as TR 029, to recommend the most suitable SMART metal or chemical anchor for installation in concrete.

The calculation program provides a 3D view of the application, with real time zoom function, and can create different anchor plate designs – rectangular, square, round and triangular. The program also provides an optimised setting depth calculation tool for chemical anchors, with different temperature ranges for setting chemical anchors also available. The final calculation reports are generated as a comprehensive PDF document. www.pgb-europe.com

New screw anchor generation HECO-Schrauben GmbH & Co KG has completely revised its screw range for concrete, presenting the new MULTI-MONTI®-plus at the recent Fastener Fair Stuttgart.

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ECO explains that the technical specifications of the new MULTI-MONTI®-plus (MMS-plus) are designed for greater efficiency, higher strength and a wider range of uses. The key feature of the new design is the optimised concrete thread with a larger effective surface area. Also, strengthened toothing on the screw tip makes the MMS-plus easier to drive and less susceptible to wear. The larger outside diameter, at both tip and thread, produces improved undercutting by the thread, which in turn permits higher loads.

The standard version of the MMS-plus will in future be a hexagon head with fixed washer. The range also includes numerous other versions and a wide choice of diameters and load classes. A new addition to the range is the MMS-plus V – a pre-set anchor for top mounting.

“We have put together an outstanding portfolio of approvals for MMS-plus. In addition to a European Technical Assessment, we have also applied for further national and international approvals, such as multiple uses in young concrete for temporary fastenings; use in pre-stressed concrete hollow core floors; and use in regions where there is seismic risk. These different approvals open up a wide range of applications for the user and provide a high degree of flexibility and reliability.” www.heco-schrauben.com

QUALITY

in-house checking facility

CE READY uniform packaging

LOGISTIC

automatic warehouse

E-SHOP

online orders & follow-up

the next generation of wood screws

pgb-Europe has over 25.000 SKU of fasteners, fixings and tools permanently available. With focus on high product quality and optimal product presentation we are one of the leading suppliers of fasteners in the Benelux.

Modern warehousing, uniform packagings, flexible order processing and many years of experience are a few assets that make our 100% family-owned company a trustful partner.

DoP Declaration of Performance

pgb-Europe nv Gontrode Heirweg 170 9090 Melle | Belgium Tel.: +32 9 272 70 70 | Fax: +32 9 272 70 99 info@pgb-europe.com | www.pgb-europe.com

C O N S T R U CT I O N F I X I N G S Recent European Technical Assessments for fixings Following an agreement with the European Organisation of Technical Assessments, here is a list of recent ETAs published in the last two months on the EOTA website.

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

From 1st July 2013, as a result of the Construction Products Regulation, new ETAs will actually be European Technical Assessments. European Technical Approvals published before 1st July 2013 will act as the new assessment until their expiry date.

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

ETA NUMBER

TRADE NAME

COMPANY

ETAG 001 Metal Anchors for use in Concrete (all parts) ETA – 04/0100

Anclaje grandes cargas INDEX SLVT

Técnicas Expansivas S.L. INDEX – Técnicas Expansivas S.L.

ETA – 05/0242

Anchor MTH Anchor MTH-A4

ETA – 07/0195

Polyfixer VSF

Roberlo SA

ETA – 14/0374

Anchor Sissy Stud

Joker Industrial Co Ltd

ETA – 14/0447

2KPS EX2 for rebar connection

2K Polymer Systems Ltd

ETA – 14/0453

RESINE EP for rebar connections

I.N.G. Fixations

ETA – 14/0454

RESINE EP bonded anchor

I.N.G. Fixations

ETA – 14/0460

Sogedeska Scellement Universel haute performance opsial

SOGEDESCA

ETA – 99/0009

HILTI HDA and HDA-R

Hilti AG Business Unit Anchors

ETA – 01/0009

FM 753 A4

Société FRIULSIDER SpA

ETA – 01/0014

FM 753

Société FRIULSIDER SpA Socièté FRIULSIDER SpA

ETA – 05/0169

FM 744

ETA – 14/0409

Eurotec

Eurotec GmbH

ETA – 15/0005

2KPS EASF for rebar connection

2K Polymer Systems Ltd

ETA – 15/0008

Injection System PESF Top – Winter and Standard

Chemfix Products Ltd

ETA – 15/0020

Injection system POLIFIX SF – Winter and standard

Batifix Z A

ETA – 15/0030

Injection System Vorpa CV.VSF PRO – Winter and standard

Vorpa Srl

ETAG 014 Plastic Anchors for ETICS ETA – 15/0006

fischer termoz CS 8

fischerwerke GmbH & Co KG

ETA – 15/0041

CAPATECT VECTOR PLUS

Synthesa Chemie GmbH

ETA – 15/0042

CAPATECT SCHRAUBDÜBEL 3D

Synthesa Chemie GmbH

ETAG 020 Plastic Anchors (all parts) N/A

N/A

N/A

info@blumoragana.it

CHEMISCHE VERANKERUNG FÜR BETON, VOLL- UND LOCHZIEGEL

SCELLEMENTS CHIMIQUE A INJECTION POUR BETON, BRIQUES PLEINES ET PERCÉES

CHEMICAL ANCHOR FOR CONCRETE, SOLID AND HOLLOW/PERFORATED MASONRY POLYESTER RESIN STYRENE FREE

ETA

ETAG 029

ETA - 11/0396

M8 ... M12

1 9 6 2 - 2 0 1 2

sistemi di fissaggio

1 9 3 7 - 2 0 1 2

®

w w w . b o s s o n g . c o m BOSSONG S.p.A. Sistemi di Fissaggio e Consolidamento Zona Industriale 2 - Via E. Fermi, 49/51 - 24050 GRASSOBBIO (Bergamo) Italy - Tel +39 035 3846 011 - Fax +39 035 3846 012 - info@bossong.com

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

Ingramatic: Leading with new solutions Ingramatic SpA, the leading Italian company for designing and manufacturing thread rolling machines, has announced that with the support of parent company SACMA Group, it is creating a manufacturing division inside its plant in Castelnuovo Scrivia – helping to further enhance its assembly and supply of components.

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ngramatic explains that the investment will be in milling centres and grinding machines to enable the company to provide parts in a shorter time for the customisation of the machines.

RP220: In 2015 Ingramatic will introduce its new W10/TR2 thread rolling machine featuring compact design, motorised die match and single starter unit driven by servomotor. This machine will be the most advanced thread rolling machine for the manufacturing of screws from M3 to M8, and is available with all the Ingramatic modular solutions, single or dual washer assembly units, and the VP unit for feeding and rolling headless screws and studs.

In common with all Ingramatics, the automatic loading system called ‘Porter unit’ is available for customers looking for a complete and automatic cell.

RP420-TR: To support customers looking for high-quality engine bolts, Ingramatic has designed a model called ‘Touch-rolling’ in order to clean and/or pass second time parts that have already been threaded to assure perfect thread quality. Since the ‘Touch-rolling’ machines are typically installed between a sorting machine and a packaging machine, this solution ensures customers will receive parts without thread damage or dirt in the thread.

Ingramatic’s well known ‘I-Thread’ line provides many innovative features, such as the motorisation of the die match, the patented starter unit driven by servomotors and the ability of the self-learning adjustment of the starter fingers.

Ingramatic points out that it is the first and only company in the world to incorporate this solution for its whole range of thread rollers. The top quality components and the perfect assembly by Ingramatic allows fastener manufacturers to obtain the best results from quick changeovers and easy set-up for the operators.

Production flexibility is essential for today’s fastener markets.

Ingramatic recognises the importance of producing highly specialised machines according to customers’ needs and strategies and has introduced several innovative solutions, such as:

“ Production flexibility is essential for today’s fastener markets.”

102 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

RP420-WR: To complement the SACMA warm former line, Ingramatic introduced Warm Rolling machines. Combining the heavy-duty design and features of the I-Thread, the WR provides a significant increase in thread quality, productivity and efficiency by rolling all shapes of bolts, screws, studs and parts made of materials difficult to roll, such as Waspaloy®, titanium alloy, A286 and Inconel. The machine’s features include WR feeding rails for the installation of an induction coil, a generator, a

New Thread rolling machine RP820-M for M18 to M27 bolts production Motorized die match adjustment Exclusive design and reinforced bed frame

Motorized adjustment in height and width of the feeding rails

New vertical elevator TL1200

Quick diameter change with spacers set Load monitor with die match control.

Rejection blade to reject n.c. parts

Soft-landing additional finished parts conveyor

Servomotor control for the Double Starter unit with self-learning adjustment

SC-Matic: Touch Screen panel allows the operator to control the machine and its accessories Electronic handwheel for slow motion jog and all machine adjustments

W60 Die length: mm.381x405x57, height: mm.177.5, diameter 18 - 27, Shank length: mm.330, Thread length: mm.175, Speed (rpm) up to: 100

High Speed and Reliability - The use of optimal high tensile materials made with the proper heat treatment specifications and ultra-precision surface finishes makes an Ingramatic the most precise, the most reliable, the most productive and lowest operating cost machine available on the market.

Flexibility - Double Starter unit with servomotors. Available options include the new Washer Assemby unit and Stud Feeding systems.

Rigid - The new designed frame, optimized by using FEM software, uses a “C” shaped stiffener that is specifically designed to counter the load stresses caused by thread rolling of heat treated parts and special profiles; providing precise and repeatable setups, consistent part quality and improve die life.

User Friendly / Ergonomic - Touch screen controls for all machine functions, safeties and information. Easy access for setup and maintenance.

Quick Set-up - Motorized adjustment of the feed rails and bowl feeder. Servomotor adjustment for the starter finger and the die match. Hydraulic clamping of the of the drive unit and stationary die position. Load monitor with computerized die match setting. Quick diameter change spacer set. New washer assembly unit with Quick Tool Change.

Simple to use for the operator – Electronic handwheel can be used for precise jog control for easy and quick setups and for all machine adjustments – die match – feed rail position – starter unit, eliminating the use of hand tools.

Available from W10 to W60 : RP320, RP420, RP520, RP620, RP820 www.sacmagroup.com

Ingramatic S.p.A. Viale Europa s/n Zona Ind. 15053 Castelnuovo Scrivia (AL) - ITALY Tel+39 0131 87161 - Fax+39 0131 823070 info@ingramatic.com

M A N U FA CT U R I N G T E C H N O LO G Y chiller, an inverter box, an optical pyrometer, and a cooled stationary die holder.

A set of selectors manage the parts through the induction coil to ensure the parts are consistently rolled at the correct temperature. Ingramatic says that its Warm Rollers provide quick changeover making it ideal for small lot sizes in the aerospace fastener market.

RP720: The new W50 machine will be introduced in 2015, replacing the popular RP72-L. The machine will be equipped with the double starter unit driven by servomotors and the revolutionary self-learning adjustments of the starter fingers.

The RP720 is stronger thanks to its brand new exclusive design and reinforced bed frame. Starting from the RP520 and upwards, Ingramatic has installed a system of hydrostatic slide liners – optimised for a high load capacity providing significant damping of the rolling load from automotive bolts threaded after heat treatment and parts rolled from exotic materials. Pressurised lubrication is fed to special bronze liners through a distributor to allow the hydrostatic pockets to create an oil film, equally distributing the rolling load and the absorption of the high forces generated during the rolling of the part between the dies. Also available is the RP720-R1 featuring a new washer assembly unit with quick change over and up sized for the assembly of very large washers.

Washer assembly unit: For the most demanding users, the standalone washer assembly unit (WAU) is now available with

a quick changeover system. The WAU can be installed on all existing Ingramatic thread rolling machines and many other makes. The WAU consists of a sturdy base, adjustable feeding rails, washer vibratory bowl feeding system, one set of tools for washer, washer assembly station, end rails for the connection with the threader and a touch screen control panel.

“The Ingramatic team will be pleased to welcome you at Castelnuovo Scrivia to see our unique show room and to present in detail the technical characteristics and features of Ingramatic’s family of machines. We hope to see you soon.” www.sacmagroup.com

Friction Coefficient Testing Machines for Screws, Bolts and Nuts Friction Testing • Vibration Testing • Torsion Testing • Tension Testing

• • • •

For fasteners from M2 up to M80 Patented transducers Integrated heating-solutions Extensometers optional Conform to standards: ISO 14399, ISO 16047, company standards from FIAT, GM, Hyundai, PSA, Renault, VW and many more

TesT GmbH • Helena-Rubinstein-Strasse 4 • D 40699 Erkrath • +49 211 209903-0 • test@test-gmbh.com • www.test-gmbh.com TesT KG • Bösch 63 • CH 6331 Hünenberg • +41 41 785601-0 • test@test-ag.ch • www.test-ag.ch

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

Strategic alliance between ENKOTEC and VIBRON ENKOTEC A/S, the Danish nail machine supplier, has agreed to a cooperation agreement with VIBRON Srl – an Italian manufacturer of nail cleaning systems – ensuring exclusive rights to sell and service VIBRON’s nail cleaning systems worldwide.

E

NKOTEC is a supplier of machinery for the manufacture of mass produced nails, as well as customised nail solutions. It is also a supplier of spare parts, service and support to its customers. The ENKOTEC technology is based on the unique rotary forming principle, invented in the early 1980s, which ensures its customers high, uniform quality, high efficiency rates and high capacity.

VIBRON has been supplying cleaning systems to the nail industry for more than 30 years, and has a long established

knowledge and expertise in metal cleaning systems. The new strategic cooperation agreement will enable ENKOTEC to supply total in-line nail manufacturing systems from wire to finished nails in a box, thus giving the market a ‘one-stop-shop’ when it comes to nail manufacturing.

This strategic agreement makes the ENKOclean product range available worldwide. The ENKOclean washing and drying system is designed for cleaning nails in an in-line nail manufacturing production or as a standalone unit, with a production speed of up to 2,000

nails per minute. The capacity is depending on the nail size. The system washes by vibrating the nails in a phosphate solution. It also features a vibrating washing machine, vibrating cob dryer and recycling tanks.

“This initiative is expected to further strengthen ENKOTEC’s position as a leading supplier of nail manufacturing lines. By agreeing to this cooperation we are combining our common competences, which we believe will be to the benefit of our customers.”

INNOVATION. QUALITY. RELIABILITY. Thread Rolling Technology Ltd. Unit 2 Central Business Park, Masborough Street, Rotherham, S60 1EW, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 1709 208 077 Email: info@threadrollingtechnologyltd.co.uk

www.threadrollingtechnologyltd.co.uk

Made in Germany

Headed – Slotted – Threaded Finished parts exit the machine

25 - 27 June Please visit us at stand:

1 F 01

Fastener Expo Shanghai, China 25.06. – 27.06.2015 • Booth 1F 01

Hilgeland Kieserling MRP Nutap

Forming Center SMR for the production of micro-parts M0,6 – M3 Output of 400 pcs./min Unique concept because of the combination of cold forming and secondary operations (fully automatic process) No washing operation and re-feeding between cold forming, slotting and thread rolling Hydrostatic bedded rotor with 8 dies for maximum precision

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

Precision Parts Forming Machinery FASTENER TECH TM 2015, Rosemont Chicago, IL, USA, 08.06. – 10.06.2015 • Hall F Booth 823 / 924

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

Focused on aerospace ‘jewels’ Spanish-based Talleres SASPI S.A says that it is starting to place more focus on the ‘jewels’ of the aerospace fastener market.

S

ASPI explains that fasteners for the aerospace industry are no longer simply just bolts. Each part is a “masterpiece” that has detailed specifications and is very valuable. Therefore each part rejected during the threading process, and especially during set-up, can prove costly.

There are some threading solutions in the market with automatic die alignment and die matches to help save time.

However, SAPSI points out that these systems are fine for big production lots but this is not the case in the aerospace industry.

Due to the variety of the parts and size of the batches, it is the efficiency of the machine changeovers that is key. For this reason SASPI is working on an easy to understand motorised system that mixes high technology with the traditional methods – making it possible for a machine set-up to be performed using just one part. The new system measures the deviation of the pitch, which

can be introduced on the PLC of the machine, and the machine automatically adjusts the moving die to correct it without wasting more parts. This combined with the motorised die block makes SASPI machines simple and easy to set-up.

SASPI is also able to supply MPA fully motorised and easy to use automatic high-speed pointers. The automatic pointers ensure that every part is held as close to the point as possible during the pointing, facing, drilling and broaching processes, regardless of the length. The company explains that this helps avoid any problems with vibration and guarantees precision and a high finishing quality of the part.

SASPI has also recently introduced a process control system to its pointers, which can measure the power of the machines, helping to monitor if there is a wrong part or if the inserts or drills are worn out. www.saspi.es

Not only packed but also oriented BILWINCO AS is a manufacturer of multi-head weigher systems for fasteners and supplies solutions that offer high capacity, high accuracy and flexibility for frequent changeover.

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hen fasteners exceed a certain length, typically 40mm – 50mm, there is often a necessity to orient the products in the box. Without orientation the fasteners would take up too much volume or it would simply not be possible to fit them into the boxes.

BILWINCO says it has solved this problem with its electromagnetic paralleling unit (PU). The empty boxes are run into filling position, where BILWINCO creates a powerful magnetic field in the boxes.

The finished portions drop from the multi-head weigher into this magnetic field in the boxes, and the fasteners are automatically oriented into the boxes.

The BILWINCO PU unit can run up to 25 – 30 boxes per minute, and box weights of up to 25kg.

“This way the customer can use a box of minimal volume, and when the end user opens the boxes the products are nicely presented.”

108 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

New line of 3-dies cylindrical thread rolling machines Regg Rolling, a division of Regg Inspection Srl, has introduced a new line of 3-dies cylindrical thread rolling machines.

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he Regg Rolling 3-dies thread rolling machines can roll threads with diameters ranging from 5 /8 inch to 10 inches. The machines range from 90kN up to 1,000kN force for the widest range of applications – from the small high precision high-tensile aerospace fastener to the largest threaded bars for the energy and power transmission industry.

All machines are designed with the most updated technologies to grant maximum rigidity and help maintain a high degree of accuracy and uniformity of parts, as well as to grant longer die life. The new PLC control also reduces set-up and cycle time.

Innovative nail packing solution Weighpack International (WPI Services BV) has recently introduced an innovative, low-cost and compact nail packing line, and has already installed several of these semi-automatic nail packing lines at customers’ facilities worldwide.

A

specialist in fastener inspection and packaging equipment, Weighpack explains that the nail packing line works by using a floor-standing bulk storage hopper to supply product to a magnetic belt conveyor that then transports the nails to the weighing system. Using a belt conveyor is an efficient way of lifting product to the weighing system, as it helps reduce the total height of the installation drastically.

The weighing system then supplies the correct weight to be dumped into the box, after which it will be magnetic orientated,

saving packaging volume and therefore increasing storage space.

The packing line is suitable to pack products such as nails and staples up to a length of 120mm, and can fill boxes with up to 25kg of product – at a capacity of 3 – 4 boxes per minute.

“For now box presentation and take away are done manually, which means the initial investment is lower than a full automatic packing line,” says Weighpack, adding: “Of course these features can be automated in the future.”

Friction Coefficient Testing Machines SASPI machines amaze mixing for Screws, Bolts and Nuts high precision and technology besides huge strength and legendary reliability.

Friction Testing • Vibration Testing • Torsion Testing • Tension Testing

Specialised in hard materials and aerospace alloys.

Save time and money with the quickest changeover by our patented system.

3 in 1 MPA machines. Pointig, Drilling and broaching.

• • • •

For fasteners from M2 up to M80 Patented transducers Integrated heating-solutions Extensometers optional Conform to standards: ISO 14399, ISO 16047, company standards from FIAT, GM, Hyundai, PSA, Renault, VW and many more*GV4-30 warm thread

If you are looking for quality this is your brand.

rolling machine

TesT GmbH • Helena-Rubinstein-Strasse 4 • D 40699 Erkrath • +49 211 209903-0 • test@test-gmbh.com • www.test-gmbh.com TesT KG • Bösch 63 • CH 6331 Hünenberg • +41 41 785601-0 • test@test-ag.ch • www.test-ag.ch

Zona Industrial Intxausti s/nº 20720 AZKOITIA (Gipuzkoa) SPAIN

Tel.: 34 - 943 85 02 62 943 85 02 66 Fax.: 34 - 943 85 34 45 E-mail: saspi@saspi.es

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

WAFIOS’ in-house exhibition a striking success WAFIOS in-house exhibitions have become a fixed date in the calendar for forming technology experts and have established themselves as an industry platform.

W

AFIOS has reported that its recent event, which took place in Wuppertal, Germany, from the 6th – 9th May 2015, has been a striking success. WAFIOS once again presented innovative technologies and presentations to visitors from all around the world.

One of the machinery highlights at the exhibition was the NAILMASTER + THREADMASTER. The high-speed wire nail machine was placed in inline operation with a rotary threading machine for the production of nails with profiled shaft – at an output rate up to 1,400 nails per minute.

In future, in addition to the machines from HILGELAND, KIESERLING, NUTAP and MRP, the nail machine Series N, N 90, NAILMASTER, and the thread rolling machines THREADMASTER and GW 92, will be found under the umbrella of WAFIOS Umformtechnik GmbH in Wuppertal.

HILGELAND

Thread Rolling Dies Thread rolling dies designed for complex and special threads with variable shape of pins, milled with high quality Fast and cost-effective reaction to customer requests Precise fabrication with high and steady quality

Hilgeland Thread Rolling dies

Support in design and development of innovations, dimensioning of thread-diameters

Made in germany

Fastener Expo Shanghai, China 25.06. – 27.06.2015 • Booth 1F 01 FASTENER TECH TM 2015 Rosemont Chicago, IL, USA, 08.06.–10.06.2015 • Hall F Booth 823/924

1_Anz GWB_Fastener+Fixing_92x135mm_2015-05_RZ

WAFIOS Umformtechnik GmbH Im Rehsiepen 35 42369 Wuppertal Telefon +49 (202) 46 68-0 Telefax +49 (202) 46 68-225 sales@wafios-umformtechnik.de www.wafios-umformtechnik.com

10.04.2015

WAFIOS Umformtechnik has many years experience in the manufacture and distribution of mechanical forming machines for the production of screws and fasteners of all types. Working on the single stroke process the nail machines round off the cold forming machine programme of HILGELAND and KIESERLING perfectly.

For this reason WAFIOS AG decided to transfer the complete nail machine programme to WAFIOS Umformtechnik.

The sales, design, production, procurement and assembly of the nail machine programme were transferred at the beginning of 2015. The transfer of the spare parts and service business for the nail machines will follow at the beginning of July 2015 and the transfer will then be completely finished. www.wafios-umformtechnik.com

Model 248E

innovation of 2015!

248E

warm series

min and max wire diameter induction heater max shank length max head diameter max cutting tonnage max heading tonnage stroke of P.K.O.’s

mm kW mm mm daN daN mm

4 - 12,5 50 82 20 6500 55000 20

Italian Style

Advanced Forming Technologies

Carlo Salvi S.p.A.

Carlo Salvi USA inc. carlosalvi@frontier.com

Carlo Salvi UK Ltd. sales.uk@carlosalvi.com

Carlo Salvi (Guangzhou)

Carlo Salvi ISTANBUL

Machinery and Equipment Ltd.

Makina Ve Ticaret Ltd. Sirketi

gm.china@carlosalvi.com

sales.tr@carlosalvi.com

Via Ponte Rotto, 67 23852 Garlate (LC) - Italy Tel. +39 0341 654 611 Fax +39 0341 682 869 carlosalvi@carlosalvi.it

www.carlosalvi.it

FASTENER SORTING EXPERT FASTENER SORTING FASTENER SORTING EXPERT EXPERT

PSG Series PSG Series

Expansion reservation upto 7 inspection stations Expansion reservation upto 7 inspection stations Expansion reservation upto 7 inspection stationschine with customized features. achine with customized features. gm n i t r with customized features. m o hine s rting ma c l a a i d ss dial so Glla orting s s s l a a i Glass d G Features:

Features: Features: 1. Glass Dial design, applicable for micro fasteners (M1.0~

1. Glass Dial design, applicable for micro fasteners (M1.0~ 1. Glass design, applicable for micro fasteners (M1.0~ M3), Dial automotive and aerospace fasteners (M3~M12), M3), automotive and aerospace fasteners (M3~M12), M3), automotive and aerospace fasteners (M3~M12), and machining / turning parts. and machining / turning parts. and machining / turning parts.

2. Sorting Speed: 100~900 PPM (depended on size of parts) 2. Sorting Speed: 100~900 PPM (depended on size of parts) 2. Optical: Sorting Speed: 100~900 PPM (depended size or of heatparts) 3.

Eddy current system for material on mixup 3. Optical: Eddy current system for material mixup or heat3. Optical: Eddy current system for material mixup or heattreatment or not. treatment or not. treatment or not.

4. Optical: Prism system to inspect thread damage of bolts 4. Optical: Prism system to inspect thread damage of bolts 4. Optical: Prism system to inspect thread damage of bolts and screws. and screws. and screws.

5. Optical: External/internal 360゜lens to inspect thread 5. Optical: External/internal 360゜lens to inspect thread 5. damage, Optical: External/internal 360゜lens to inspect thread feature or surface defects. damage, feature or surface defects. damage, feature or surface defects.

6. Customized machine for bigger objects is also available.

6. Customized machine for bigger objects is also available.

6. Customized machine for bigger objects is also available.

For pin roller For pin roller For pin roller OK OK OK

NG NG NG

For screws For screws For screws

For nuts For nuts For nuts 360° external & internal inspection 360° external & internal inspection 360° external & internal inspection

CHING CHAN OPTICAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. CHING CHAN OPTICAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. No. 58, Lane 110, Zhongxiao St., Hu-Nei Dist., CHING CHAN OPTICAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. No. 58, Lane 110, Zhongxiao St., Hu-Nei Dist., Kaohsiung City 829, Taiwan St., Hu-Nei Dist., No. 58, Lane 110, Zhongxiao Kaohsiung City 829, Taiwan Tel: +886-7-693-7937 Kaohsiung City 829, Taiwan Tel: +886-7-693-7937 Fax: +886-7-693-7017 Tel: +886-7-693-7937 Fax: +886-7-693-7017 E-mail: sales@ccm3s.com Fax: +886-7-693-7017 E-mail: sales@ccm3s.com E-mail: sales@ccm3s.com

http://www.ccm3s.com http://www.ccm3s.com http://www.ccm3s.com

Contact in Europe Contact in Europe BRUNE GmbH Maschinen fuer Drahtumformung Contact in Europe BRUNE GmbH Maschinen fuer Drahtumformung In der Delle 10, D - 57462 Olpe, Germany BRUNE GmbH Maschinen fuer Drahtumformung In der Delle 10, D - 57462 Olpe, Germany TEL: +49 27 61 In der Delle 10,837 D -378 57462 Olpe, Germany TEL: +49 27 61 837 378 FAX: +49 27 61 837 031 TEL: +49 27 FAX: +49 2761 61837 837378 031 E-Mail: brune@brune-machinery.de FAX: +49 27 61 837 031 E-Mail: brune@brune-machinery.de E-Mail: brune@brune-machinery.de

YOUR fastening

solutions

Schotte® Automotive GmbH & Co KG has cooperated closely with Taiwanese based ViZion® – an innovative leader for customised sorting machines – to develop a robust range of machines.

hält! / we fix it!

…we make the difference!

Sorting solutions…

Schotte® makes the difference

S

ISO/TS 16949:2009; ISO 9001:2008 Schotte Automotive GmbH & Co. KG Zum Kraftwerk 1 D-45527 Hattingen Phone: +49 (0) 23 24 / 97 79 77 00 Fax: +49 (0) 23 24 / 97 79 77 90 info@schotteautomotive.de www.schotteautomotive.de Schotte Automotive Engineering GmbH Im Schönen Winkel 4a D-47506 Neukirchen-Vluyn Phone: +49 (0) 28 45 / 37 99 97-0 Fax: +49 (0) 28 45 / 37 99 97-9 info@schotte-automotive-engineering.de www.schotte-automotive-engineering.de

chotte Automotive, and its brand Schotte Automotive Fasteners®, stands for individual and robust high-end solutions for the production and distribution of metal fastening components.

Alongside Schotte Automotive Engineering® the traditional German company has access to a pool of specialists and engineers – an expert team that can be integrated into the product development process at the earliest possible stage – helping to guarantee mutual customer benefits and lead to cost effective and robust solutions.

The need to find and develop a state of the art sorting machine, capable of meeting the standards and service demanded by the global automotive market, has led Schotte® to work with ViZion®.

Applying the principle of “Less is more” and eliminating all unnecessary components, has led to a very robust machine range. These basic machines will be customised according to individual customer needs or even to develop a new machine to meet special requirements. One potential upgrade could be 360° thread sorting for the detection of damaged threads.

ViZion brings in its expert know-how as a maker and developer of sorting machines. Schotte Automotive Engineering takes care of the European market and supports all customers with R&D service as a consultant and first level service support. www.schotteautomotive.de

LICHTHART Betriebsgesellschaft mbH

NOTHING WORKS WITHOUT THE RIGHT TOOL!

We develop individual and flexible solutions for our customers.

We maintain a large inventory of over 2,000 different tools, ready for same day shipping.

We provide fast turnaround on special made-to-order tools.

IN STOCK

t: +49 (0) 2351 9538 0 f: +49 (0) 2351 9538 30 e: info@lichthart.de w: www.lichthart.de Römerweg 21 D-58513 Lüdenscheid Germany

IN-LINE WIRE DRAWING MACHINES For calibrating wire from 2,0 to 35,0 m, in-line with cold headers and machines for chains.

• Gages • Trim Dies • Recess Punches • Planetary Dies • Thread Rolling Dies Lichthart is certified according to DIN EN ISO 9001:2008.

FOR YOUR IN-LINE AND OFF-LINE WIRE DRAWING NEEDS

HORIZONTAL WIRE DRAWING BULLBLOCKS For coil-to-coil wire drawing of cold heading wire from 5,0 to 32,0 mm.

Our lines are supplied complete with uncoilers, wire pointers, take-up units, coil compactors.

Tel. +39 0341.604801 Fax +39 0341.604289 www.tecnoimpianti-italy.com info@tecnoimpianti-italy.com

C ATA LO G U E R A C K

May 2015

European Manufacturers 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

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

email: info@baercoil.com www.baercoil.com

Tel: +44 (0) 1384 563356 www.brooksforgings.co.uk

A.M.C. (UK) Fasteners Ltd

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.

• AMC coldform nut manufacturer • Hexagon, Square & Round Nuts • Standard & Special Nuts • M4 diameter upwards in Standard & Special Threads • Weld Nuts, All Metal Lock Nuts, Wheel Nuts, Flange Nuts, Heavy Nuts, Full, Thin, Castle & Slotted Nuts • Carbon & Alloy Steels • Approvals to BS EN ISO 9001 & TUV-AD 2000 WO/TRD100 email: sales@amcukfasteners.co.uk www.amcukfasteners.co.uk

BAER Vertriebs GmbH

Bodegraven Metaal NV

BAER produces BaerCoil® Wire Thread Inserts and BaerFix® selftapping thread inserts. Also their taps and dies are available from stock in high German quality.

Bodegraven Metaal NV is the leading manufacturer of THREADED RODS (DIN976-1) from Europe. Our sales policy (distributors only) large stocks, together with 34 years of experience in only threaded rods guarantees you EUROPEAN QUALITY STANDARDS and a strong, solid partner. Our ISO 9001:2008 quality system ensures you a reliable product with certificates and full traceability in the higher grade.

BAER impresses their distributors and end-users with quality, availability, quick reactions, distributor support, application consulting and continuous development for offering best solutions in all applications.

Tel: +32 (0) 11 559 110 www.bomet.com

Brooks Forgings

Corbetta Srl

Brooks Forgings manufacture Forged and Machined fastener components. Our extensive in-house manufacturing capabilities enable us to produce STANDARD AND SPECIAL FASTENERS to suit customer specific requirements.

Thread sizes M6 up to M100 • Forged Lengths up to 6000mm • 16 Hot Forging Cells • 16 CNC Machines • Lloyds ISO 9001 • CE Approved • National Highway Sector Scheme • Achilles FPAL & LINK-UP Registered

We have been producing high quality forming screws, rivets and pivots according to drawing for 40 years.

The recent generation change allows us to adapt our experience to the fast market changes.

Our mission: Highest quality and flexibility for a product entirely manufactured in Italy.

116 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

email: corbettaviti@corbettaviti.it www.corbettaviti.it

Tel: +33 (0) 4 92 08 56 56 www.degometal.com

Degometal

FAR s.r.l.

• French Fabrication & Know-how • ISO 9001 Certified • Experience and Reputation since 1966 • Rivets, Nuts, Riveting tools, Screws, Cable ties • Standard Products & Custom Technical Solutions • Constant drive for Research & Development • Presence in the Industry & the Specialized Distribution • Mastering our craft is our major strength

FAR s.r.l. for over 50 years is leader in the manufacture of a wide range of high-technology articles that ensure maximum performances in terms of quality and service, all strictly produced in the plant of Bologna: blind rivets and threaded inserts, particularly in aluminium, steel and stainless steel, and manual/ pneumatic/hydropneumatic and battery tools, which exports over the 5 continents.

email: info@far.bo.it www.far.bo.it

HJZ – Zandvoort draadIndustrie B.V

JCS Hi-Torque Ltd Manufacturers of Hi-Grip, Hi-Torque and Tamtorque, the world’s finest quality worm drive hose clips and clamps, and approved to BSI Kitemark and Lloyd’s Type Approval Standards.

Founded in 1936, was the first factory of hardened steel nails in Holland. Under our brand “HJZ” a complete range of hardened steel nails, stainless steel nails, brass nails, aluminium nails, redcopper nails and special carbon steel nails are manufactured.

Tel: +31 314 333441 www.hjz.nl

For small orders you can visit the webshop.

JCS products are exported throughout the world for use in the Industrial, Automotive, Marine, Construction and Petro-Chemical industries.

Tel: +44 (0) 1787 376212 www.jcshi-torque.co.uk

email: mail@keil-fixing.de www.keil-fixing.de

KEIL Werkzeugfabrik Karl Eischeid GmbH Quality drilling tools from KEIL in Germany.

Every professional can rely on the careful production of a range in line with market trends.

We can offer a solution for every type of use.

More than 50 years experience with drilling and drill bits makes us a competent partner for you.

email: mail@keil.eu www.keil.eu

Lee Spring

Lueg-Stanztechnik e.K.

New look Series 20 Lee Spring UK catalogue featuring almost 20,000 product types, including High Pressure Springs, Metric Bantam™ Mini-Compression Springs and the latest in Heavy Duty Die Springs.

Since 1966, Lueg-Stanztechnik is your reliable partner for the manufacturing of stamping parts according to DIN/ISO standards and customer drawings.

To order visit leespring.com or call UK + 44 (0)118 978 1899 DE + 49 (0)2353 669933-0 Tel: + 44 (0)118 978 1899 www.leespring.com

Quality drilling tools

KEIL Befestigungstechnik GmbH With more than 1000 successfully completed projects, KEIL Befestigungstechnik is one of the world's leading manufacturers of innovative façade attachment systems based on undercut technology. KEIL offers architects and façade builders special solutions for attaching facade panels from the rear and thus avoiding visually distracting attachment points on the front.

We offer a wide range in design and material specification to meet the needs of modern industry.

Please contact us for a catalogue.

We are experts in processing materials with special requirements, like Duplex, Superduplex, corrosion and heat resistant alloy, high nickel alloy, stainless steels, Titanium and non ferrous metals. email: info@lueg-stanztechnik.de www.lueg-stanztechnik.de

www.fastenerandfixing.com

117

C ATA LO G U E R A C K Nail Ltd

pgb-Polska z.o.o.

Nail Ltd is the leading manufacturer of the widest range of high-quality nails in Ukraine with over 20 years of experience.

Along with building, finishing and roofing nails we produce coiled and loose pallet nails certified

by EPAL. For many years our products have been supplied to the European market.

pgb-Polska is the production facility of pgb-Europe. Its production range covers multifunctional wall plugs, universal plugs, hammer nail plugs, window frame anchors and cavity anchors. All nylon anchors are produced from high-grade halogen free polyamide PA6.

Our main products are CE/ETA certified. Please contact us for a full scope of our products!

email: export@nail.com.ua www.nail.com.ua

Tel: +44 (0) 1536 444 800 www.spirol.com

email: piotr.baczkowski@pgb-polska.com www.pgb-polska.com

SPIROL – COILED SPRING PINS

SPIROL – SLOTTED SPRING PINS

Versatile SPIROL Coiled Spring Pins provide flexibility, uniform strength, equal stress distribution, closer diameter tolerances, no interlocking, substantial advantages in trouble-free automatic feeding, and they reduce costs. Heavy, standard, and light duty pins provide combinations of strength, flexibility and diameter to meet the specific engineering objectives of your pinning applications.

SPIROL manufactures Slotted Spring Pins to ISO 8752 (EN 28752), ASME 18.8.4M Type B (Metric non interlocking) and ASME B18.8.2 (Inch), in High Carbon Steel, Austenitic Stainless Steel and Chrome Stainless Steel. We also produce special products subject to quantity such as light duty ISO 13337, reduced ends and combination pins.

TR Fastenings TR Fastenings – Global manufacturer & distributor of fasteners including sheet metal fasteners, PCB hardware & cable management, inserts for plastic, self-locking fasteners, sets, bolts, studding, screws, nuts, security fasteners, blind rivets & nuts, micro diameter and more.

Tel: +44 (0) 1536 444 800 www.spirol.com

ARTICLES OF OUR CATALOGUE PRODUCED IN ITALY

SIPA S.R.L.

VIA DELL’ARTIGIANATO, 16/18/20 - 36027 SAN PIETRO DI ROSA’ (VICENZA) ITALY TEL. (0039) 0424-562044 - FAX (0039) 0424-564055 - E-MAIL: sipa@sipaitalia.it

www.sipaitalia.it

• Competitive prices • next day delivery on all stocked items • online technical support email: sales@trfastenings.com Contact TR today – The clear alternative. www.trfastenings.com

Sipa Srl SIPA Srl. is specialised in the production of washers of different norms (DIN 125/A, DIN 9021, DIN 440 etc). We can supply washers with holes and dimensions on client’s request, in raw material, zinc plated, HDG and in small or industrial boxes. We also produce plates, shelves, connector bands also on client’s drawing.

email: sipa@sipaitalia.it www.sipaitalia.it

Catalogue Rack July 2015 Coming up in the next issue...

UK + Ireland Contact: Ilana Bernstein email: ilana.bernstein@fastenerandfixing.com • Tel: +44 (0) 1727 814 508 118 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

Business or Sales Intelligence – what’s best for your business?

Jayne Hill, business development manager at VECTA – the Sales Intelligence and CRM software specialists, looks at the benefits of Sales Intelligence software and how it can help fastener distributors recognise their customers’ needs.

I

s it time to outmanoeuvre the competition and increase your share of customer spend? Ultimately business growth drives us all, whether that’s new customer acquisition, the procurement of fresh leads or focusing on retention of current and revival of lapsed clients. It’s well documented that the most cost-effective and productive growth strategy is concentrating on your existing customer base – but in fast moving business sectors which route should you take with technology to drive that?

It depends very much on what you are looking to achieve for your business. A Business Intelligence (BI) solution will help to give you a general overview of the business, often in report format, whereas Sales Intelligence (SI) is positioned to help enhance sales growth, efficiency and self-sufficiency.

“ A Business Intelligence solution will help to give you a general overview of the business… whereas Sales Intelligence is positioned to help enhance sales growth...”

For both solutions having a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of your customer’s needs – gaining a thorough awareness of their business, seasonal sales trends, ethos, purchasing habits, patterns and the personalities within the organisation – are now a prerequisite. Acquiring and managing the necessary customer intelligence requires some consideration in parallel with the management, and also with the use and sharing of information already within the business.

A standard BI tool delivers data in report format but it’s important to remember that sales growth requires more than figures on a spreadsheet, and that those reports still need work to access the necessary sales actions – particularly where speed is crucial. Using SI will signpost actions and opportunities and remove the need for trawling and comparing spreadsheets and reports. Instant bespoke sales ‘actions’ and ‘alerts’ are presented onscreen (mobile or PC) ensuring teams are more efficient and better informed.

For a fast moving environment with strong competition, it’s also vital to have a central point for data collection, sales planning and the associated reporting – especially when working with a sizeable customer base. Imagine the impact on sales results if you had immediate access to accurate hard facts relating to sales and margins and instant visibility of exactly what was discussed last time a client was contacted.

The value of seeing detailed information about customers’ previous purchases – especially what they didn’t buy and what they could be buying. The positive impact becomes evident quickly and the customer recognises that your business really understands their needs.

Integrate SI and CRM and you enable proactive and highly focused management and sales activity to deliver tangible efficiencies through optimisation of customer relationships and understanding buying trends and habits, all without spending hours and hours poring over piles of reports and spreadsheets.

It’s an appealing thought to most MDs and sales directors.

Consider the scenario: A fastener distribution company, stocking tens of thousands of product lines with thousands of customers, notices a decline in turnover in a particular line but despite using BI reports it’s hard to pinpoint why. Integrated SI and CRM software provides instant alerts to gaps enabling an immediate response to the problem.

UK-based Orbital Fasteners Ltd can testify to the value of integrated Sales Intelligence and CRM having recognised the benefits with staggering results. “Using VECTA has enabled dramatic growth for us, as a result of acting upon the information VECTA feeds to us we have seen huge increases in our share of customer business. As an example, one customer group has grown from an average annual spend of circa GB£144,000 to a potential of GB£400,000 per annum.”

“Not only is VECTA helping us to increase business but it helps our customers too, using VECTA analysis is so quick and it is easy to check exactly what each customer buys.

The information we can provide to them also allows them to efficiently manage and police their own purchasing – instilling even greater confidence in us as a supplier.”

www.fastenerandfixing.com

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M A N A G E M E N T + SY S T E M S

You only coast one way

By Jason Bader, managing partner, The Distribution Team Many of us pride ourselves on the sheer volume of tasks that we accomplish in a workday.

From dawn until dusk, we overcome challenges, remove barriers and drive through another working day. Without a doubt, we produce a flurry of activity worthy of any beehive reference.

W

ith all this output, our organisations should be growing at breakneck speed. Unfortunately, the sheer volume of work does not always produce the kind of financial results we are looking for. We work harder than ever; but are we really getting smarter? If we really want to see results, we have to quit obsessing over completing tasks and focus on solving problems.

As the title of this article implies, many of us coast our way through the workday. Don’t get me wrong. Managers are not sitting at desks playing solitaire or meandering down the black hole that is Facebook; but people tend to coast. Again, the volume of tasks is not the problem. Executives are busy. Answering phones, responding to emails and attending meetings are all important. But do they really move the needle? By doing all of these activities, we tend to avoid the meaningful projects worthy of our attention. It’s time to quit rolling downhill and start climbing up the mountain.

As you can probably guess, procrastination is not an unfamiliar concept to me. Trust me, several of my editors probably have an opinion on this. I was an 11th hour madman when it came to term papers or finals in college. Why do it today when it can be put off until tomorrow? Sadly, that type of mentality tends to follow you into the professional world. Again, I don’t want to suggest that anyone here is lazy; but people tend to fill time with activities of lesser importance. The small transactional stuff gets done but the really big meaningful projects tend to remain in a place called ‘future’.

Several years ago, I ran across a book that had a profound impact on my level of output. ‘Eat That Frog! 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time’, by Brian Tracy, has been a best seller since it was published in 2001.

I think I picked it up because I thought the title was intriguing and a bit repulsive at the same time. The title comes from an old expression, and I am paraphrasing, ‘If you eat a live frog in the morning, you can go through the day knowing that it is probably the worst thing you are going to have to do all day’. Essentially, do the hardest things first and everything else gets easier.

Develop a day end routine This is one of those concepts that I find applicable to so many different levels of management. It also works great with field sales personnel. When we get extremely busy, some of our commitments tend to slip through the cracks. We may have written it down, but we didn’t make a plan to take action. How many of you have woken up in the middle of the night thinking about something you needed to follow up on? I know that I have.

In order to avoid these nocturnal panic attacks, we need to take time to mentally close out the previous day.

A day end routine can incorporate several elements. For this discussion, let’s just focus on creating a task list. Before you leave work, carve out 20 to 30 minutes of quiet time. Just sit down and make a list of all the things that need to get done tomorrow. Try this for a week and see if you start getting more things accomplished. By writing out the tasks, do you find more time in the day? It has been my experience that when I take the

120 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

time to write out the things I want to accomplish, and review my appointments for the next day, I tend to expend less energy accomplishing the work. When I know what I have to do, my stress level decreases.

Prioritise your tasks The next step to becoming more productive is to rank your list of tasks by level of impact. When you started working off the list you created the night before, did you find yourself wanting to bang out the quick little tasks first? I know that I did. There is a sense of satisfaction checking items off the list. Again, this is our brain telling us that more work is better work. Unfortunately, by doing all the little tasks first, we often run out of time for the high impact items on the list.

Go back to the ‘Eat That Frog!’ concept. If we really want to become productive, we need to eat the ‘biggest, baddest frog’ on our list first and then take on the tadpoles. During your day end routine, take the time to assign a ranking to your list. Mr Tracy suggests an A, B, C, D and E methodology. ‘A’ items are those that have a high impact on your work and also carry the most consequence if you fail to complete them. ‘B’ items also have a high impact but carry a lesser consequence. ‘C’ items are items that are good to do, but don’t have much impact on your work either way. ‘D’ items are those that should be delegated to others. This is really hard for some managers. If you want to become more productive, you must work at your pay grade. If you are a US$35 per hour employee, do US$35 per hour work.

Let others take care of the US$15 per hour tasks. Finally, an ‘E’ item is something that you should eliminate. Do you run a report that no one, including yourself, reads? Perhaps you shouldn’t be doing it anymore.

In order to make a meaningful impact, tackle those ‘A’ level tasks first. For me, that means writing an article, drafting a proposal or working on a presentation. For you, it may mean creating a job description for the next member of your team or putting together a perpetual dead stock plan. Making sure that a truck is being loaded right is something others can handle.

Bang out those ‘A’ and ‘B’ tasks. That is what managers are paid to do. If you are having difficulty prioritising tasks, go seek guidance from your boss. I am sure that they will have some thoughts on the matter. If you are the top dog, perhaps you should give me a call. I am always here to help.

About the author Jason Bader is the managing partner of The Distribution Team, a firm that specialises in helping distributors become more profitable through strategic planning and operating efficiencies. The first 20 years of his career were spent working as a distribution executive.

Today, he is a regular speaker at industry events and spends much of his time coaching individual distribution companies. For more information contact him by email at Jason@distributionteam.com. Also visit The Distribution Team’s website at www.thedistributionteam.com

Mobile solutions from Merlin Designed specifically with fastener and fixing distributors in mind, Merlin Business Software’s new Merlin CRM & Sales Order Capture App for Android™ enables remote ordering.

A

s part of its ever growing Android™ developments the Merlin CRM & Sales Order Capture App has been designed to work dynamically with the main Merlin software suite to enable sales teams to take orders electronically whilst out in the field and stream them back to the Merlin system. These orders are automatically processed

by Merlin at the office once received, with no need for the sales person to ‘call it in’ after a meeting.

The App is already in use with fastener distributors who actively use it to manage customers’ consignment stock levels, allowing them to invoice customers’ usage as well as letting Merlin handle the replenishment process to keep customers well stocked.

This development will enable a user to add and view contact notes, review customer orders and quotes, as well as look at outstanding invoices and customer account status prior to, or during a meeting. The App also works when a Wi-Fi or 3G/4G data connection is lost. It simply works offline and stores the data until a signal becomes available. All data is then automatically transmitted to head office.

“With this App a sales team doesn’t have to stay chained to their desks. They can take orders with confidence when out on the road with access to Merlin records. One customer reported that using the Android App saved them over forty hours a week – which is effectively the saving of a salary to the business. Why not see what Merlin can do for you?” www.merlinbusinesssoftware.com

Call us on 01246 457150

www.merlinbusinesssoftware.com Fully integrated ERP software specifically designed for Stockists, Distributors, Wholesalers, Merchants and Manufacturers “Using the Android App has saved us over forty hours per week” Read the full article here:

M A N A G E M E N T + SY S T E M S

Business Intelligence: It’s what you do with it that counts Here Jon Roberts, marketing manager for OrderWise Stock Control and Order Processing Software, takes a look at Business Intelligence and asks how it should be used and the benefits it can bring.

W

ith so much hype, hundreds of articles published, and an explosion in Business Intelligence system providers – all promising to supply you with information that will transform your operations – it can be difficult to really grasp what is meant by Business Intelligence (BI).

BI often comes in many formats, offering traditional reporting functions, easy to interpret KPI charts and more dynamic, flexible analysis of business data. This can then be used to identify performance strengths and weaknesses within products, sales channels, territories, account managers and more, along with unlocking the potential sales opportunities that exist within data.

With such a wide and varied range of BI tools to choose from, the task of identifying the right solution can often be difficult.

To start with, any BI system is only going to be as good as the data it uses, so if your current business software does not retain detailed, relevant data such as CRM activity or margin and profitability at the transactional level, then drilling down beyond top level figures will not be possible.

“ … the end result of BI is to increase sales, margins and profits so that business performance is improved.”

Secondly, you should consider what information will be available for each department and role, along with the format best suited to delivering this data. Directors may require information in a traditional report format to be automatically emailed each

day, week or month to make strategic decisions with confidence.

Departments on the other hand, are often best served with KPI charts that can be viewed on large screens for at-a-glance interpretation of current performance and workload. Account managers and sales staff will then want to identify customer leakage issues, drill into product and category performance and identify new or missed sales opportunities. Managers meanwhile will need to assess staff, customer and territory performance against targets, compare margins and profitability across various criteria, analyse CRM activities and more.

However, many businesses fall into the trap of forgetting about the most important part of using BI, which is ensuring processes are in place to quickly and effectively action what has been identified so positive outcomes can be achieved and monitored. After all, the end result of BI is to increase sales, margins and profits so that business performance is improved.

When using separate systems for BI, order processing, CRM, reporting, etc, this makes the workflow from identified issue to action to successful conclusion a more disjointed process, with the valuable results of data analysis often getting overlooked or followed up too late.

By having BI that is seamlessly integrated as part of one central and scalable business management solution – including stock and warehouse management, order processing, reporting, KPIs, CRM and more – businesses are able to gain a detailed and up to date picture across all their business data for in-depth analysis and review in a range of formats. Importantly, this integrated approach means the use of BI can become a part of daily activity, not only identifying issues such as customer leakage but, at the click of a button, initiating the follow up action within CRM so an account manager or member of the sales team can bring them quickly back on board.

So, if you have plans to look at how Business Intelligence can help revolutionise your business operations, it is worth first evaluating if your current business software is the right platform from which to build. www.orderwise.co.uk

About Wise Software (UK) Ltd Wise Software (UK) Ltd has been providing software for stock control, order processing, warehouse management, manufacturing and much more for over 24 years.

Based in Lincoln, UK, it has over 7,500 users of its software across a whole range of industries and sectors – all throughout the UK and Ireland. Designed for manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, merchants, web traders, resellers and more, its software provides a scalable solution fully tailored to meet the requirements of the company it is serving. As well as offering a comprehensive main software system that can be hosted locally or accessed remotely, it also supplies revolutionary barcode scanning mobile devices to manage everyday warehouse tasks and manufacturing activities. Continually developed with a new version released each month, its software and cutting edge functionality has emerged as a reliable solution for business operations.

122 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

Take Control of Business Operations

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Phone: +49 2334 957-0 Fax: +49 2334 957-269

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info@jvu.de www.jvu.de

sales@vogelsangfastener.com www.vogelsangfastener.com

FO C U S O N

May 2015

Sockets + Hexagon Bolts This issue’s Focus On is dedicated to Sockets + Hexagon bolts. 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…

Albert Pasvahl GmbH & CO.KG DIN and Specials – Direct From Stock – Huge Product Range

Kompetenz in Schrauben The screw experts

Albert Pasvahl offers you their experience and expertise in special connection elements and accessories, resulting from over 80 years in business. During the course of this time, they have become a leading stockist of special standard screws.

Lieferprogramm / Product range

w: ble no Availa new

The uct prod e! rang

• Leading stockist of rare standards • Immediate delivery • High product quality • Variety of sockets and hexagon bolts/plugs/screws with dog/cone point • Square head bolts, knurled thumb screws, flat headed screws and specials • Leading supplier for European Wholesaler

Construction Fixings Contact Ilana Bernstein Tel: +44 (0) 1727 814 508 email: ilana.bernstein@fastenerandfixing.com

Tel: + 49 (0) 40 532 852 0

Bontempi VIBO SpA

Eurobolt

Stainless and carbon steel bolts manufacturer.

Eurobolt, your second warehouse for Steel Fasteners in Europe with over 30 years of experience.

Bontempi VIBO Spa’s mission is simple: growing its always available range in order to satisfy all our customer needs.

We are going to add M27 and M33 Socket bolts up to 300mm! You will be able to buy these new items from stock by the end of 2015!

Our always available standard range consists of: DIN 931, DIN 933, DIN 960, DIN 961, DIN 912, DIN 7984, ISO 7380 in 8.8, 10.9 and 12.9, A2-70, A4-70, A2-80, A4-80 from M5 to M36.

www.pasvahl.de

Eurobolt, Your second warehouse for: • Hexagon head bolts (DIN 609, 931, 933 and ISO 4014,4017) • Socket head cap screws (Din 912, 6912, 7984) • Socket set screws (913, 914, 915 and 916) • Hexagon head bolts FP (Din 960, 961) • Hexagon bolts (Din 601, 558, 7990) • Special head screws (Din 571, 603, 6921, 7380, 7991) • Nuts (Din 4032, 934, 985) also in Fine pitch • Washers and springs. (Din 125, 127, 440R, 7989, 9021) • Lift eye bolts and nuts. (Din 580, 582) • Special bolts • Structure Bolts EN 15048 in HDG and Zincplated.

Naamloos-4 1

All of our items are available in plain or zinc plated (Chrome VI free).

Other surface treatments (yellow zinc plating, zinc and manganese (dry or oiled) phosphate, geomet, delta protekt, pre-applied adhesive and sealants, etc.) could be available upon request.

Our quality is granted by the ISO 9001:2000 certification which will soon be followed by an ISO TS 16949 certification and a full traceability.

Our outstanding service is granted by our brand new fully automated warehouse which contains more than 15,000 pallets.

Do not hesitate to contact us for any further information or inquiry.

Your satisfaction is our goal!

Tel: +39 030 350 3240

www.vibo.com

124 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

Depending on the product, we have grade 4.6 up to 12.9 plain but also Zinc plated, HDG, Yellow zinc plated and Geomet.

We export to all European countries and exclusively to distributors. With 25,000 pallets in stock, we have substantial stock levels including a lot of intermediate sizes.

Please send us your enquiries. We will answer right away.

Tel: + 31 3146 75730

email: sales@eurobolt.com

08-09-2009 09:57:45

Fastbolt GmbH

Peter Schröder GmbH

Fastbolt is a range specialist – our focus is on a small number of areas within the comprehensive spectrum of fastener types available. Being a specialist and not a generalist enables us to be competent in those areas that we encompass. Our current stock range covers a portfolio of ten product groups. Beside our range of small screws we offer:

American & British Inch sized Hex Head and Socket Screws in Grade 5 (8.8), Alloy and Stainless Steel!

Hi Tensile Bolts & Setscrews DIN 931 (ISO 4014) 8.8 plain, zinc plated and yellow zinc plated M 4 – M 30 DIN 933 (ISO 4017) 8.8 plain, zinc plated and yellow zinc plated M 3 – M 30 UNC/UNF Grade 5 (8.8) plain and zinc plated ¼” – 1” Hexagon Socket Head Screws DIN 912 (ISO 4762) 8.8 plain and zinc plated M 3 – M 24 DIN 7991 (ISO 10642) 8.8 plain and zinc plated M 3 – M 20 DIN 7991 (ISO 10642) 10.9 plain and zinc plated M 4 – M 20

Immediately available from stock or can be supplied at short notice.

Furthermore we also supply special items to drawings or pattern.

This broad spectrum spans from the simple slotted screw to the MS/AN/NAS specifications and specifically finished items.

Global Inch - Fasteners

for more than 40 Years

Tel.: +49 (0) 71 32/99 60-0 • Fax.: +49 (0) 71 32/99 60-60

www.schroederschrauben.de

In practically every design, material and type of thread.

Over 30 years experience in trading and supplying.

Do not hesitate to ask us – we shall be pleased to help you.

and new in our stock range are: ISO 7380-1 010.9 plain and zinc plated M 3 – M 12 ISO 7380-2 010.9 plain and zinc plated M 3 – M 12 DIN 7984 08.8 plain and zinc plated M 3 – M 16 We strive to constantly increase our stock range, but place product competence above size of range. We believe that this competence is prerequisite to being a successful strategic partner with European distributors. email: info@fastbolt.com

www.fastbolt.com

Tel: +49 (0) 71 32 99 600

www.schroederschrauben.de

pgb-Europe

F. REYHER Nchfg. GmbH & Co. KG

EN 15048 and EN 14399: available from stock!

With over 125 years’ experience, REYHER is one of Europe’s leading distributors of fasteners and fixing technology supplying customers worldwide.

pgb-Europe extended its range of fasteners as defined in Eurocode 3 with non- preloaded bolt assemblies according to EN 15048 for structural steel constructions.

The EN 15048 range covers sizes from M12 up to M36 available from our stock, in both zinc plating and hot dip galvanizing. Bigger sizes are available upon request. The full range is packed in solid carton pgb-boxes with clear label with all CE information. The Declaration of Performance (DoP) can be downloaded from our website. pgb-Europe also has hot dip galvanized preloaded bolts according to EN 14399 available from stock.

SOCKET SCREWS A wide assortment of socket screws in steel and stainless steel and non-ferro is at our customer’s disposal. The range covers hexagon set screws with different points, cap head socket screws, flat head socket screws, button head socket screws and pressure screw plugs.

More than 80,000 catalogue items are available for immediate delivery. REYHER provides you with the opportunity of convenient ordering via the webshop RIO – REYHER Internet Order.

Comprehensive product range of sockets & hexagon bolts on stock: • DIN 912 / ISO 4762 Hexagon socket head cap screws • DIN 912 / ISO 12474 Hexagon socket head cap screws, metric fine pitch thread • DIN 912 ISR / ISO 14579 Hexalobular socket head cap screws (~ TORX) • DIN 931 / ISO 4014 Hexagon head bolts with shank • DIN 933 / ISO 4017 Hexagon head screws with thread up to head • DIN 960 / ISO 8765 Hexagon head bolts with shank, metric fine pitch thread • DIN 961 / ISO 8676 Hexagon head screws with thread up to head, metric fine pitch thread

For more information and a full scope of our product range, please visit our or contact us directly for any inquiry!

Material/property classes: 8.8, 10.9, 12.9, AD W7, A 2, A 4, A 5, BUMAX e.g.

Coatings: zinc plated, zinc flake coating, hot dip galvanized e.g.

email: frederik.pennoit@pgb-europe.com

www.reyher.de

www.pgb-europe.com

email: contact@reyher.de

www.fastenerandfixing.com

125

A P P L I C AT I O N T E C H N O LO G Y Cathodic corrosion protection of high strength subsea bolting In the last decade Hague Fasteners Ltd has seen massive demand growth for British manufactured, European origin material, critical bolting to OEM specifications – written to ensure the prevention of failures in high strength fasteners used in offshore and subsea applications.

T

he selection, specification, manufacture and installation of fasteners for subsea use is critical to ensure resistance to corrosion due to various forms of environmentally assisted cracking. As oil exploration progresses into far deeper waters, the consequence of a fastener failure or other mechanical component breakdown is financially serious and for the environment potentially catastrophic.

The subsea specifications to which Hague Fasteners adheres emphasises the prevention of environmentally induced cracking under the conditions of cathodic protection – frequently used in marine vessels, as well as offshore and subsea steel structures, to reduce base metal corrosion by making it the cathode in an electrochemical cell.

Special fasteners manufactured and coated by Hague Fasteners do not deviate from the expert specifications designed to minimise the risk from the various forms of environmentally assisted cracking, including stress corrosion cracking, hydrogen embrittlement and sustained load cracking.

Hague Fasteners supplies high performance applications requiring higher strength fasteners. A major issue with fasteners

used offshore and subsea is that higher strength fasteners are susceptible to stress corrosion cracking and hydrogen embrittlement. In general, the higher the strength, the higher the hardness of the material and the greater the susceptibility to these failure mechanisms.

Common critical offshore and subsea bolting material grades are ASTM A320 Grade L43, ASTM A320 L7 and ASTM A193 Grade B7. Hague Fasteners certifies its manufactured items with additional PMI testing and MPI testing. It also further ensures component integrity by limiting hardness well below the proven 34 HR – where high strength bolting becomes highly susceptible to cracking from hydrogen embrittlement induced by cathodic protection. It is important to note that the maximum hardness specification for regular B7 is 35 HRC, above the limit of the susceptible range.

Quality simply cannot be compromised, says Hague Fasteners.

“The best in British manufacturing ensures all the risks are assessed and minimised by strict adherence to subsea and offshore manufacturing specifications. Where reputation is at stake, Hague Fasteners is your solution.”

High performance zinc flake basecoat At Fastener Fair Stuttgart, Dörken MKS-Systeme GmbH & Co KG presented its new Delta-Protekt® KL 120 – a strong basecoat with outstanding corrosion protection properties, which also offers an extremely high level of white rust resistance in combination with all topcoats – even black topcoats.

D

örken MKS-Systeme states that the Delta-Protekt® KL 120 is its most powerful zinc flake basecoat and, whilst delivering the same level of performance, goes up to 30% further than other basecoats in the Delta-Protekt® range.

The highly efficient material, which was at the centre of the company’s presentation at Fastener Fair Stuttgart, is compatible with all topcoats from the Delta MKS Systeme product portfolio. With a total coating thickness of 18µm – depending on layer build-up, shape of the parts and method of application – the systems achieve corrosion endurance times as per DIN EN ISO 9227. Including 1,000 hours against red and white rust on mass bulk materials put through manufacturing processes.

“The basecoat provides cathodic corrosion protection through the sacrificial effect of the zinc. The layers of flakes arranged in a scale-like manner produce a barrier effect that – compared to conventional galvanic corrosion protection coatings – appreciably slows down the attack of corrosive media such as moisture and oxygen. Another advantage is that, as no free hydrogen is generated in the coating process, it does not introduce the risk of hydrogen embrittlement of high strength components.”

The choice of coating technique for Delta-Protekt KL 120 is dependent on the part concerned. All standard coating techniques can be used.

126 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

316 stainless steel coiled spring pins SPIROL International Corporation has introduced a line of 316 stainless steel coiled spring pins, designed for applications used in highly corrosive environments.

E

asily recognised by their unique 2¼ coil cross section, coiled spring pins are self-retaining pins that compress when installed into the host component.

SPIROL says that its pins are the only coiled spring pins with uniform strength and flexibility after insertion. The pins also feature a shock absorbing design that helps dampen forces and vibration to prevent hole damage and prolong assembly life.

SPIROL’s 316 stainless steel coiled spring pins are offered in metric sizes with nominal diameters ranging from 2mm to 6mm and lengths from 8mm to 50mm.

“While all 300 series stainless steels are considered to be highly corrosion resistant, Type 316 exhibits superior resistance to pitting in more severe environments such as when submerged in seawater and when used in the petrochemical industry. This is due to the higher nickel content and, in particular, the addition of molybdenum, which significantly increases the chemical resistance of this alloy.” www.spirol.co.uk

Innovative quick connector enables 360° locking NORMA Group has developed an innovative metal quick connector that features a 360 degree claw ring locking system that withstands exceptionally high material strain.

T

he patented XM Quick Connector is suited for a wide range of heavy-duty uses, including charge air and cooling systems in the passenger and heavy-duty vehicles industry, as well as in industrial applications.

Future generations of turbocharged engines will be higher loaded to reduce fuel consumption and comply with emission standards. As a result, pressures and temperatures will rise.

“The efficient use of scarce resources, for instance fossil fuels, is becoming more important globally. We at NORMA Group monitor the technological implications of this trend very closely,” says Werner Deggim, CEO of NORMA Group. “We have anticipated our customers’ demands with this innovative quick connector. Our new product solution responds to their need for tight connections in tougher requirements and supports our customers in reducing fuel consumption.”

The XM Quick Connector is characterised by extreme pressure resistance of more than five bar and temperature resistance ranging from -40°C up to +230°C. Its innovative claw ring provides 360° locking on the spigot for a sealed and stable connection, which also keeps the connection free from all

kinds of deposits such as dust, debris, oil or water build-up.

Moreover, the claw ring allows for fast, easy and safe assembly without any special tools. The connector can simply be placed on the spigot while the claws are open. This plug and play mechanism requires only low assembly forces.

Once installed, the XM Quick Connector withstands extreme pull off forces. A screwdriver can then be used to disconnect it.

For a stable connection, a double crimp from inside and multiple smaller crimps from outside keep the standard hose in place and provide an additional seal between the hose and the connector.

In addition, NORMA points out that the connector’s compact design allows for more design flexibility because it takes up 10% less space than current connectors.

The quick connector can be applied to hoses and plastic tubes and is available in the size range 40mm to 95mm. For standard hoses, it comes with a double crimp, and for plastic tubes with a single crimp. The XM Quick Connector fits the German VDA spigot design. The Swedish SAE standard and other standards can also be manufactured on demand. www.normagroup.com

Global Inch - Fasteners

for more than 40 Years

Tel.: +49 (0) 71 32/99 60-0 • Fax.: +49 (0) 71 32/99 60-60

www.schroederschrauben.de

A P P L I C AT I O N T E C H N O LO G Y

Bonding solutions for automotive seating The increasing demand for more comfort, quality and visual appeal for automotive interiors, as well as economical and environmental aspects, are the key drivers for automotive interior designers when selecting new textiles, fabrics or new decorative trim solutions.

H

owever, some of these new materials can be difficult to bond and require advanced adhesive assembly technologies to enable customers to meet current and future interior automotive specifications.

Techsil currently supplies a range of hot melt adhesives and tapes for key Tier 1 automotive seat suppliers. One such supplier was looking for a fast assembly solution on the rear seat unit of a sport utility vehicle. The application required the bonding of the rear carpet finisher

to the powder coated metal frame. The increased demand for the vehicle meant a fast curing solution was required, but not too fast as the operator needed enough time to apply the correct bead pattern to the frame to ensure maximum coverage.

The customer also required a high temperature resistance, above standard hot melt EVA specifications of 60ºC to 80ºC. Techsil 6811-43 was selected for testing after extended environmental and physical tests proved successful.

Features of Techsil 6811-43 include a

softening point of 150°C; a temperature resistance of 110°C; and also a flexible low temperature of -30°C (Tg).

As the vehicle build increased, a faster assembly process was required. This meant more operators in the production cell. The customer chose to install bulk melter tanks with dual hoses. Techsil was asked for a bulk version of the Techsil 6811-43 and Techsil HM27399 was developed. This bulk grade has all the same specifications and passed all of the tests. Both forms are now used on the line.

A global source for all your products

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t: +44 (0) 1978 823 900 e: sales@aslgroup.uk.com w: www.aslgroup.uk.com Supplier to the OEM and automotive industry

Unit 21, Vauxhall Industrial Estate, Ruabon, Wrexham, LL14 6HA, UK

Special Screws Fit bolts, plugs, knurled thumb screws, square head bolts, flat headed screws, hexagon set screws, brass screws and specials.

directly from stock!

< KNURLED THUMB SCREWS 5.8, zinc plated according to DIN 464, 653

Fon +49 (0) 40 532 852-0 Fax +49 (0) 40 532 852-52

150120_FF_E4_R채ndel_190x135 o.M.indd 1

info@pasvahl.de www.pasvahl.de

20.01.15 11:11

A P P L I C AT I O N T E C H N O LO G Y

Testing the energy solutions of tomorrow At Clemson University, South Carolina, USA, an old shipyard has been turned into the world’s largest wind energy testing centre. Renk Test System (RTS), a German company, has provided a facility containing the world’s most powerful wind turbine tests rigs, which permit simulation of any type of wind force.

A

s wind energy rapidly develops worldwide, the US government plans to expand the country’s production from 35 gigawatts to over 300 gigawatts, equivalent to 270 medium sized nuclear power plants. The new testing centre plays a crucial role in achieving this goal.

For the first time, it will test wind turbine prototypes of up to 15 megawatts (MW) with every type of wind force, including hurricanes. The fact that today’s average wind turbines generate 3MW – 7MW, indicates the power of the testing facility.

“You don’t need to wait for the storm of the century,” says Jens Schneider, project manager at RTS in Augsburg, Germany.

“The rigs simulate the most extreme conditions in a matter of months and manufacturers save hundreds of millions of dollars by detecting weak points before deploying new systems. The savings in time and money are one reason why interest in our testing systems has skyrocketed recently.”

RTS was commissioned to build two test stands when the Clemson project started a couple of years ago. The company, a subsidiary of RENK AG, has developed and manufactured high-end testing facilities for gears, drive components and complete vehicles since the 1960s.

The Clemson project is the largest single contract in the company’s history so far and RTS added personnel to its Mooresville and Augsburg offices to meet the requirements.

It designed two test rigs: A 15MW stand with a fully dynamic load application that uses hydraulic cylinders and an 11,000

132 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

horsepower motor to impart force and moments onto the turbine’s rotating shaft; as well as a smaller stand for test objects up to 7.5MW. The 15MW rig is 30m (98.5 feet) long, 13m (42.5 feet) wide and 14m (46 feet) high. Ever since wind energy took off in the 1980s, tests have been limited to components, but these huge test rigs allow a complete wind turbine nacelle with an average weight of 300 tonnes to 400 tonnes to be attached to the test bed,

simulating dynamic loads in six axes of freedom. RTS shipped 800 tonnes of components to the US, including Superbolt multi-jackbolt tensioners (MJTs) and expansion bolts from Nord-Lock.

“This is state of the art technology that will be used to test new wind turbines over the next 30 years,” mentions Jens Schneider.

“That’s why we needed bolting security that is able to cope with tomorrow’s more powerful wind turbines, as well as today’s.”

874 Superbolt MJTs and expansion bolts, varying in size from M42 to M125, secure the most critical bolted joints of both test rigs. The largest ones fix the test rig’s single units to the 6,000 tonnes concrete foundations. These ensure the test beds are detached from the main structure, preventing vibrations from reaching it and impacting the test results. The rest are fitted to the test bed gears controlling the speed of the test object, as well as in the load unit’s shaft connection, which simulates the wind.

“These parts must handle extreme dynamic loads, replicating the harshest offshore conditions, and huge bolts are needed to keep everything in place,” Jens Schneider explains.

“Conventional bolts require heavy hydraulic wrenches for tightening and removal. Superbolt products from Nord-Lock provide the same or elevated preload levels, but allow us to work with normal hand tools, which are much more flexible.”

“90% of the rig’s components were manufactured in Augsburg, but there wasn’t space to pre-build and test the whole facility here,” explains Jens Schneider. “We only had one shot to get it right and using Superbolt tensioners made it possible for us to install both rigs within just six months.”

www.fastenerandfixing.com

133

TO O L S

High performance metal roof fastening BECK Fastener Group has expanded its portfolio in the field of metal to wood joints by developing the RoofLoc® SCRAIL® system – a new system that helps users install metal roofing quickly and efficiently.

T

he RoofLoc® SCRAIL® system was specially developed for metal to wood joints and combines the pneumatic FASCO Metal Roofing Installation tool and the patented RoofLoc® SCRAIL® fastener.

The RoofLoc SCRAIL is pneumatically driven with the FASCO Metal Roofing tool and can be unscrewed completely for repair work if necessary. The patented thread of RoofLoc SCRAIL provides holding power of 1,750N (400lbs) and the leakproof EPDM washer protects the underlying wood against moisture and can be used in a temperature range from -40°C to +120°C. For different coating requirements, RoofLoc SCRAIL can be manufactured in stainless steel and standard steel with BECK FasCoat® finish. In addition, the RoofLoc SCRAIL is also available in all colours upon request.

“The RoofLoc SCRAIL working method is new in metal roof mounting and represents an enormous increase in efficiency for the installation. The system is two times faster than collated screws and eight times faster than bulk screws.” www.beck-fastener.com

Complete and reliable nailing Poppers Senco UK Ltd, the UK exclusive distributor of brands including SENCO®, TyTecker ®, Muro and Technofast, has introduced the SENCO PalletPro100 coil nailer for applications needing large nails driven completely and reliably.

F

eaturing a double-handed safety mechanism, Poppers Senco says that the SENCO® PalletPro100 coil nailer has been designed with the muscle and durability to consistently and reliably drive up to 100mm nails. The tool also includes a T-handle that provides additional comfort, control and accuracy when operating and manoeuvring the tool during operation.

The unique double safety requires two hands to fire the tool – initially the operator is required to press the handle on the front of the machine with one hand before the main trigger is activated with the other hand. This will prevent the user from firing the tool using only one hand. This safety system is designed to provide additional safety to the operator of the tool and colleagues in the surrounding working environment.

The PalletPro100 is also equipped with an eye bolt mounted on the tool cap, which can attach the tool to a SENCO spring balancer.

This helps to reduce fatigue of the operator and makes the work easier.

New and fast technology at GESIPA® GESIPA® Blindniettechnik GmbH has completed its product portfolio with two hydro-pneumatic magazine setting tools with a quick setting process – TAURUS®1 and TAURUS®2 Speed Rivet.

L

ight and compact in design, GESIPA® explains that the new speed rivet setting tools are the product of decades of expertise and the unbeatable advantages of the well known, tried and tested TAURUS® series.

The speed rivet system has a quick setting process – achieving cycle times of approximately two seconds per rivet. The system also features an automatic switch off for safety and an ergonomic handling for fatigue free work. The speed rivet system can be used in many industries including sheet metal, construction, circuit board and automotive.

“Our engineers’ main objectives in the development was for the TAURUS® 1 Speed Rivet to be safe, quick and reliable. The very light and ergonomically shaped device will set new standards for the market. Both tools are also available in axial versions for easily and fast implementation in industrial applications.” www.gesipa.com

134 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

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• Twice as fast as collated screws • Eight times faster than bulk screws • Use almost anywhere ordinary screws are used

Scrailfasteners

www.beck-fastener.com BECK Fastener Group®, FASCO America®, SCRAIL® and "The Faster Fastener®" are registered trademarks of the BECK Fastener Group.

TO O L S

Special modular systems from PREBENA PREBENA Wilfried Bornemann GmbH & Co KG, a German manufacturer of pneumatic nailers, compressors and fasteners, has developed a special modular system for industrial production.

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ODUL 11-Z64, MODUL 11-Z80, and MODUL 11-WP130, are suitable for use in equipment of prefabricated house elements and offer a reliable and robust solution for quick stapling of the PREBENA Type Z and WP staples.

MODUL 11-Z64 weighs 9.75kg (15.85kg with staples) and MODUL 11-Z80 weighs 14.5kg (21kg with staples). Both have a working pressure of 4.5 – 7.5 bar and the weight capacity for both modules is 32 staple bars.

Specifications for the MODUL 11-WP130 include a working pressure of 5 – 7.5 bar and a weight capacity of 15 staple bars. The MODUL 11-WP130 is also heavier weighing 15.5kg (19.75kg with staples).

The modules feature a fast rate of shooting due to a large volume of air inside the body – with the maximum rate of fire 12 shots a second. Quick reload is possible due to the changeable magazine and the industrial packaging of the staples. An empty shot safety device and magazine sensor also help ensure a ‘disturbance free’ operation.

The modules are suitable for the industrial processing of gypsum fibre, fermacell, fibreboard, insulation panels, and other board materials, and are supplied ready for installation.

IM45 GN: Simple yet versatile

Drill bits for optimum performance

ITW Construction Products says it is continuing to break new ground in nailing with the launch of the IM45 GN multipurpose gas plastic coil nailer.

UK manufacturer of drilling solutions, Armeg Ltd, has launched a new range of twister impact rated ¼ inch hex masonry drill bits, previously only available as part of a 15-piece masonry fixing installation set.

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he IM45 GN cordless coil nailer is a multipurpose tool that is able to fire a range of nails to suit different applications including metal roofing, cladding, fencing, shingles, over boarding, drywall to timber and packaging.

Part of the Paslode® range, ITW Construction Products points out that the tool is simple yet versatile and features a unique delivery system. Used plastic coil is ejected out of the tool in one piece allowing for easy tear off and disposal when required. The tool also has a high capacity 125 nail magazine enabling users to be more productive with less down time. Other tool features include a compact lightweight design, tool free depth adjustment, last nail lock out, a narrow nosepiece with clear line of sight and a no-mar rubber tip.

Chris Rose, Paslode product manager, commented: “The IM45 GN is a truly versatile, multipurpose tool.

As it has the same battery platform as the IM350+, which so many trade people own, it’s a great addition to any carpenter or builders tool portfolio.”

What is

D

eveloped and manufactured in Sheffield, the drill bits are designed to give the optimum performance within impact drivers. The 1-piece twister drill bit is manufactured from high-quality alloy steel ensuring it has the durability and strength required to withstand the torsional impact produced by impact drivers.

The drill bits also feature a custom ground drill tip that has been designed with torsional impact in mind. Devised specifically for rotary only drilling, Armeg explains that the special grind reduces the torque placed on the drill bit resulting in faster and more efficient drilling.

All twister drill bits are designed with a ¼ inch quick change shank and can be used on multiple materials including masonry, timber and sheet metal.

The new range includes five sizes of twister drill bits, with diameters ranging from 5.5mm through to 10mm. Other sizes are available as either twin packs or single drill bits.

Johan Smit Fasteners?

Inventory

Metric and Imperial ASTM A194 - Full Range

Quality

140 Years of Expertise ISO 9001:2008 PED 97/EC/23

Traceability

“From the melt to the joint, nuts that are always traceable”

Johan Smit Fasteners www.johsmit.com - info@johsmit.com

JS

FH

P R O D U CT S

Two hundred new parts added In the past couple of months, SD Products says that it has added over two hundred brand new and unique parts to its already extensive selection of scrivets, expansion rivets, removable push rivets and fir tree buttons.

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ased in Mansfield, UK, SD Products stocks and supplies a large range of plastic panel and trim fasteners, with the total number of products available on its online catalogue approaching 11,000. The company’s range of push rivets and scrivets are reusable and quick and easy to assemble. They provide a secure fixing and will only be detached if necessary. With a closed end design they are especially useful in blind applications, where they help with self-alignment. When installed, these rivets will expand in order to secure themselves for a tight fit.

SD Products can also supply fir tree buttons, which are often used in the automotive industry and in furniture manufacture.

The barbs on the shaft of the button point downwards and away from the path of the hole. This allows for an easy access into the surface and secure hold, especially when used with softer materials such as wood, plastic or rubber.

“All plastic fasteners from SD Products are manufactured from top quality engineering polymers including nylon, polycarbonate and acetal. This ensures outstanding durability and impact resistance even for highly specialised applications. Rigorous quality control is one of the main reasons why we still maintain a great reputation amongst our customers after 35 years in the business.”

Powerful compression springs for the heaviest needs Lesjöfors Fjädrar AB specialises in the manufacture of springs for extremely heavy loads for customers in areas such as the railway, automotive, paper, mining and military industries.

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esjöfors manufactures both compression springs, tension springs and torsion springs in large dimensions. These springs must withstand extreme conditions and require wire dimensions up to 65mm, weighing up to 350kg. Many of the largest springs are manufactured in Åminnefors, Finland, and in Lesjöfors, Sweden.

The spring production comprises everything from fully automated processes to handmade bespoke springs.

Materials for extreme environments In some cases, the spring must withstand great strains in terms of high or low temperatures, exposure to chemicals or mechanical abrasion. High-performance materials are then often required, such as superalloys. Lesjöfors has extensive experience working with these materials and stocks many of them such as Inconel X750, Inconel 718, Nimonic 90, Monel K500 and MP35.

Advanced calculations and tests To ensure that the spring keeps its promises, Lesjöfors provides advanced test and measurement equipment for a variety of tests including FEM analysis, as well as fatigue and relaxation tests.

138 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

“Our experienced spring support team is happy to help with advice about materials, finish treatment, calculations and technical support, among other things. Please contact us as early as possible in your project so we can work out the optimal conditions right from the start,” says Mats Blåder, managing director of Lesjöfors Fjädrar.

The primary source for American Made plastic fasteners WORLDWIDE

Keeping customer needs as priority #1...

Our larger facility now provides: • Improved product development • Future growth of product line • Double the amount of in-stock inventory to one billion parts • Increased inventory allowing for same-day shipping of catalog items • Expanded shipping & receiving

• Expanded on-site tooling & production for custom orders

Additional customer conveniences include: • 24/7 website availability • Manufacturing operates 24/7 • Reach a real person Mon-Fri 7am-5pm CST (USA)

toll free fax 1-877-453-8707

www.voltplastics .com •

1-800-844-8024

700 Hwy. 202 West, Yellville, Arkansas 72687

P R O D U CT S

Fabory launches full service website Fabory recently introduced new and improved features to its website, designed to help customers navigate to products and solutions quickly and efficiently.

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ip Ten Bosch, marketing and e-commerce manager at Fabory, explains: “Customers tell us they need a partner to help them increase productivity and profitability. The enhancements to the website make it easy for customers to find the products they need, monitor their budgets and track their purchases.”

The website incorporates proven best practices of business-to-customer online retail in the business-to-business environment. Features include improved ordering functionality, with a utility toolbar added to streamline how customers order through the website. This feature provides access to online order history; personalises order lists; and enables a customer specific order approval process for maximum control. This means that the customer can adjust custom order allowance settings based on budgets and user rights, per buyer and a determined period of time.

Another improved feature is an enhanced search option. With

product search generating 75% of Fabory’s website traffic, the goal was to make the search experience as seamless as possible.

Over 100 product characteristics help customers narrow their search faster – right from the home page. In addition, the new product detail page includes enhanced images and product specific information to help customers make more informed buying decisions.

Enhancing its webshop functionalities, the company leveraged in-house e-commerce expertise. Fabory’s parent company Grainger Inc was recognised in 2014 as the 13th largest e-retailer in the US and Canada by Internet Retailer. The Fabory website operates on the same core platform as Grainger and leveraging technical resources from the United States.

“We are present throughout Europe so all features are available in 11 languages,” adds Jip. “These enhancements are a foundational step in our ongoing commitment to evolve as the needs of our customers change.”

Increased panel range with Pine Tree Clips GBK UK Ltd has added two new Pine Tree Clips, made from PA6 (nylon 6) and PA66 (nylon 66) to its range, which offer users panel ranges of up to 40mm.

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he new Pine Tree Clips offer significantly different benefits to users with panel ranges of this size.

Produced using both different fin design and material grades, one item is extremely malleable – making it ideal for difficult panel assemblies where manufacturing tolerances are difficult to achieve. The more rigid item has been used already in applications where stiffness is a desirable attribute, such as securing expanded materials to rigid housings or to another flexible or expanded material.

Pine Tree Clip 47206 is made from nylon 6 and has an 18mm head diameter. It requires a 6mm hole mounting and has a panel rage from 4mm – 40mm. Pine Tree Clip 47207 is made from nylon 66 and has a 15.3mm head diameter. It requires a hole mounting of 7.5mm and has a panel range of 24mm – 40mm.

“Contact our sales office to talk about your fastening, fixing and component needs and discover why GBK ships products globally and solves problems daily.”

Standard Listed – you know who’s best!

But contact us for all the rest . . .

Tel:

+44 (0) 117 – 972 8560

Fax:

+44 (0) 117 – 972 8570

Email:

sales@avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk

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

Online Product Guide: www.avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk

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

Established distributor of Huck® During recent trading months Rivco Ltd says it has noted significant sales growth in the sale of its Huck® product range to the distribution market – underlining the instrumental part the Huck® range plays in Rivco’s export activity.

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K-based Rivco has been an established distributor of Huck® for 20 years and has developed into a full service provider for the complete Huck fastener and tool solutions range.

The Huck distributor development programme has enabled Rivco to become an approved provider of technical support on Huck tooling and nose assemblies for new Huck tool sales. Rivco is also an approved service centre with the capability of servicing and repairing the air tool range, hydraulic rigs, tools and nose assemblies.

“Rivco has prospered in recent months thanks to our availability of Huck structural rivet products, and the next day delivery service we offer,” says Steve Auld, managing director at Rivco. “The recent increase in demand shows that we are the distributor of choice for many of our customers. We offer a reliable supply to those who have encountered problems in their normal supply chain and we encourage new enquiries going forward.” www.rivco.co.uk

Chavesbao expands range of standard washers Chavesbao has added yellow zinc plated conical washers (DIN 6796) and hot dip galvanised spring washers (DIN 9021) to its wide range – in order to meet customers’ needs.

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triving to exceed customer expectations, Chavesbao is continuously looking to add new products and invest in stock to help ensure a leading delivery service in the sector.

The DIN 9021 washer is included in the Chavesbao product catalogue and is available in A2 and A4 stainless steel, as well as other coatings – zinc plated, yellow zinc plated, and plain.

Chavesbao has also recently added zinc plated Grade 10 prevailing torque type hexagon nuts, with nylon insert (DIN 985), to its range. The nuts are available in sizes M6 to M48. www.chavesbao.com

Rivco Huck ad 11-13:Layout 1 01/11/2013 14:09 Page 1

The rivet & rivet nut supplier of choice

Proud to b e

Main Distributor 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

New Rivit technical catalogues

Rivit Srl has released two new technical catalogues dedicated to its industry division – the Blind Rivets Catalogue and the Rivet Nuts Catalogue.

ALLTHREADS, MACHINE SCREWS, HEX HEADS AND CUP SQUARES • M3-M12 OR 5/32”-1/2” L10mm-180mm • METRIC, UNC, UNF, BA, BSW, BSF THREADS • BRASS, BRONZE, ALU, STEEL AND STAINLESS • CUSTOMER SPECIALS ON REQUEST ASK FOR A COPY OF OUR EXTENSIVE STOCK LIST Park Lane, Halesowen, West Midlands B63 2QY, UK T: +44 (0)1384 569 832 E: sales@londonscrew.co.uk www.londonscrew.co.uk

ESTABLISHED 1870 Manufacturer of Quality Industrial Fasteners

B

ased in Bologna, Italy, Rivit says that both publications are extremely easy to use. All the information is laid out in a clear and simple manner and the technical data illustrates the features of all the products.

The Blind Rivets Catalogue is over 200 pages and has been produced to illustrate the comprehensive Rivit range of blind rivets, structural rivets, special rivets, and speed rivets in cartridge. Each entry is accompanied by a technical sheet, diagrams, and relevant applications.

Key products included in the catalogue include CAPRIV sealed rivets, which feature an excellent water resistance; the special SPHERIV, which has an installed appearance of a stud; the structural BAMRIV, which is comparable to blind bolts for shear and tensile strengths; as well as the brand new CH and SC series of speed rivets.

The Rivet Nuts Catalogue has been completely changed and updated. The most important update for Rivit was to underline how big its offer for rivet nuts has become throughout the years. The company has added a vast range of sizes and versions of rivet nuts to its portfolio – all of which have been included in the new catalogue.

Leading products include A4 stainless steel rivet nuts – available with cylindrical and hexagonal shank for a greater weather resistance – and the SQUARIV, which was designed for square holes.

“Both catalogues also illustrate the large range of Rivit riveters, as well as our full programme of tools to place blind rivets and rivet nuts. For each tool you can find photos, applications, technical data and QR codes to display the video presentations.” www.rivit.it

P R O D U CT S

Delivering adapted solutions

Degometal states that its know-how in manufacturing rivets, combined with a constant drive for research and innovation, allows it to meet customers’ special requirements and deliver adapted solutions.

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egometal’s complete line of rivets (blind, solid, semi-tubular and tubular) is a token of its constant innovating efforts. The ‘4-jaw’ nail technology, for blind rivets, ensures a precise mandrel breaking point; a constant tensile strength; and special mechanical and dimensional characteristics for developing specific products.

The company also offers additional items such as: Blind rivet nuts, tools, screws, cable ties, cold formed and rolled parts, as well as turned and stamped parts – all available with a wide choice of surface treatments, such as zinc plating, nickel plating, anodisation and lacquering.

Degometal explains that through its production units, which include cold forming machines (with 2 to 5 blows), rolling machines, and assembly machines, it is able to meet small or large orders in a quick and efficient way.

“Our expertise allows us to design and produce cold formed and rolled special pieces, and to develop parts from other manufacturing processes such as turning, stamping and from tube material. Our important product stock (10,000 references), our reactivity, and our flexibility, are some of our major assets – coupled with fast shipping and a first class after sales service.”

Providing secure attachment PennEngineering® says that its PEM® Type PFC2™ and PFS2™ self-clinching captive panel screws provide secure and permanent attachment for thin metal assemblies; enable subsequent access to an assembly whenever necessary; and eliminate typical issues and risks associated with the handling, installing, and potential loosening of screws in service.

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hese spring-loaded stainless steel (Type PFC2™) and steel (Type PFS2™) captive panel screws securely attach aluminium or steel sheets as thin as 0.060 inches/1.53mm and exhibit appropriate hardness to effect clinching. They are available in multiple screw lengths and in thread sizes #4 – 40 through ¼ – 20 and M3 through M6. In addition, both types can be supplied with a DuraBlack™ finish, whether for cosmetic or other purposes.

“The fasteners install quickly and reliably by squeezing them into properly sized holes using a PEMSERTER® press or other standard equipment to develop sufficient force. The force enables the shoulder of the fastener’s retainer to contact with the sheet material and the fastener then clinches permanently into place to become an integral part of an assembly.”

Inox Mare exhibits with style at Fastener Fair Stuttgart Inox Mare Srl used the recent Fastener Fair Stuttgart as an opportunity to present new products, new technologies, future projects, and its new company logo.

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he new Inox Mare logo was warmly received by visitors and represents modernity and evolution, without forgetting the great tradition that is associated with nearly 40 years of experience.

In addition to the new logo, the company also showcased its new wedge anchors. The wedge anchors are manufactured in Europe and marked with ‘IM’ exclusively for Inox Mare – in order to ensure a unique product.

144 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

Inox Mare is also planning to introduce a new e-commerce website, which will help customers save time and money. The new website will also enable customers to check price and availability updates in real time.

“Every month our website receives thousands of visits from all over the world. The new e-commerce site will be the ideal place for these visitors to find the information they need and enquire for more information – depending on their requirements.”

High quality disc springs from the world market leader Lightweight construction technology by new processing methods for smart machine elements.

Innovation: ▪ The Mubea Generation II Disc Springs

▪ Significantly higher stresses allowable and high potential for space reduction Advantages: ▪ Multiplied lifetime (by factor 10 possible, depending on application) ▪ Reduction of outer diameter up to 10 % ▪ Optimization of travel up to 40 %

▪ Reduction of spring stack installation length up to 20 %

> FASTENERS DISTRIBUTION < EXPRESS SERVICE

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AUTOMATED STORAGE 95% Products in stock

20.000 REFERENCES Screws, Bolts, Nuts, Washers, etc

* New CATALOGUE 2015 *

POL. MARTIARTU II, 3B T +34 94 671 47 60 WWW.ROSMIL.COM 48480 ARRIGORRIAGA F +34 94 671 30 25 (BIZKAIA) SPAIN E ROSMIL@ROSMIL.COM

Your benefit: ▪ Reduction of system size and weight ▪ Decrease of system costs

▪ Reduction of maintenance rate Mubea Tellerfedern GmbH P.O. Box 120 57564 Daaden, Germany

Tel.: +49 2743 806 0 E-Mail: info@mubea-tellerfedern.de

www.mubea-disc-springs.com www.mubea.com

P R O D U CT S

Innovative two component cyanoacrylate technology Panacol-Elosol GmbH has launched three newly developed two component cyanoacrylate adhesives – Cyanolit® 510, 520 and 530 – which it says have shown superior performance during extensive prelaunch testing.

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ow available for sampling, Panacol says its Cyanolit® series is based on innovative two component cyanoacrylate technology. Formulated for specific purposes, the Cyanolit® 510 has excellent adhesion to metal substrates, the Cyanolit® 520 is ideal for bonding plastics and polycarbonates, and the Cyanolit® 530 features a very flexible formulation with a great strain capacity for versatile applications.

In addition to very high adhesion, the two component reaction mechanism provides full cure in uncovered areas such as edge overflows or fillet welds. The adhesives’ high

viscosities also allow large gap filling up to 5mm, and drip-free dispensing for less waste and higher quality.

The Cyanolit adhesives are easy to handle and are dispensed from double cartridges with microstatic mixers, which provides control over the curing cycle. Just like conventional one component cyanoacrylates, curing takes places instantly when two substrates are pressed together. But unlike one component products, the two components of the new Cyanolit adhesives cure independent of humidity in the air, providing consistent speed of cure. Scrap costs associated with half-full bottles of polymerised adhesive can also be eliminated.

TIMco reaches GB£1 million of online sales After launching its new website less than six months ago, T.I Midwood & Co Ltd (TIMco) – a UK independent suppliers of screws, fasteners and fixings, as well as power tool accessories – has announced that it has already achieved more than GB£1 million of sales through its new website.

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aunched to further improve service levels by providing details on product applications, as well as a simplified ordering process for customers, the website now has more than 800 registered customers who use it on a regular basis.

As well as hitting the GB£1 million sales mark through the website, TIMco has also launched new features including a new store locator, an image gallery to download pictures of products, and an up to date price list.

“We designed the new website to make it easier for our customers to order products, whilst still reflecting the quality of our products and service we offer,” explains Simon Midwood, managing director of TIMco. “The new website has been well received and we’re thrilled people are finding it user-friendly. Hitting the GB£1 million mark is a tremendous achievement and it demonstrates how important it is for companies to offer a useful and user-friendly website.”

TIMco is currently working on other features for the website and aims to enable multiple users for each account by the summer.

Saving time with Schnabl® Schnabl® Stecktechnik GmbH says that by using its ‘drill, fasten and finish’ products, installers will be able to save up to 60% of working time.

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esigned for pipe and cable installation for commercial applications, Schnabl® says its simple yet innovative technology enables fastening elements to be fixed with very little effort. The fixings are simply inserted into a 6mm drill hole and the locking system holds them firmly in place, with no requirement for cable trays. The unique and precise design of the expansion component means that when under tension, the fastening elements are securely retained in place – allowing them to withstand any standard workloads and torque forces of up to 40kg.

“Our products offer a clear advantage for every type of installation and offer high torque values, high-quality and are totally recyclable or reusable. The modular system means that all components are interchangeable, minimising stock requirements and removing the need for specialist application tools.”

146 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 93 May 2015

Smith Bullough

cture M a n u f a etric r e n e t s Fa UNF • M Special • UNC •

S R N E O N I E T T C S FA P RO T E

W BSF • BS

From stock or blanks: •

Hexagon, Square

•

Cup Rd, Cup Sq & Nib

•

Csk Rd, Csk Sq & Nib

•

Special Head Shapes •

In-house Forging

•

CNC Machining

•

Cut & Roll Threading

•

4.6, 8.8, 10.9, 12.9

•

M/S, ‘R’, ‘S’, ‘T’, ‘V’

www.bulte.com

Tel: 01942 520250

sales@smithbullough.com

Fax: 01942 520251

www.smithbullough.com

®

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

P R O D U CT S

Arpel releases new catalogue UK-based Arpel Ltd has released its new catalogue showcasing its entire product range from fastening products to tooling.

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rpel’s new catalogue was released to help the company raise awareness of its capabilities, as well as the availability of its products – including next day delivery service.

The catalogue includes Arpel’s wide range of rivet and rivet nut products, as well as recommended tools for application. The company stocks rivet nuts from M3 – M12 and rivets from 2.4mm to 6.4mm – available in steel, aluminium, as well as A2 and A4 stainless steel.

Arpel also currently has a range of special promotions for a variety of rivet nut and rivet tooling, including: • FAR KJ60 rivet nut tool: Capable of setting rivet nuts from M3 – M8 in steel, stainless steel and aluminium.

• FAR KJ45S rivet nut tool: Capable of setting rivet nuts from M4 – M12 in steel, stainless steel and aluminium.

• FAR RAC180 riveter: Capable of setting rivets up to 4.8mm in steel/stainless steel and structural rivets including 3/16 inch (4.8mm) FARBOLT, Magna-Lok® and Monobolt® applications.

• FAR RAC171 riveter: Capable of setting 4.8mm – 6.4mm rivets, as well as being able to set 3/16 inch and 1/4 inch heavy-duty structural rivets such as FARBOLT and Monobolts.

“For special prices on these products please quote ‘ARP2015’ with your enquiry,” says Matt Roden, commercial director at Arpel. “Also, if you have specific head style requirements or finishes, give us a call and we will be happy to help you.”

Close, cover, and protect with Bülte sleeve caps Do you need to close a tube, cover pieces or protect a thread? Bülte Plastiques SA says that it has the perfect solution – Bülte sleeve caps.

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ade from polyethylene Bülte sleeve caps are flexible, non-corrosive, non-toxic, and very light. They can be used in a wide variety of industries including medical, aerospace, rail, electrical and electronics, building, chemical and food.

The sleeve caps are available in a variety of different colours, such as white, red, yellow and blue, and have an inside diameter from 5mm to 20mm and height from 22mm to 36mm. The minimum order quantity is 50,000 pieces. www.bulte.com

There will be a time when you need to join ‘A to B’… Know your options.

The new knowledge hub for fastening innovations, news, technology, and applications across every industry.

FFT Online Half Page Horizontal.indd 1

08/05/2015 14:08

P R O D U CT S

Fastener Fair Stuttgart – a complete success for WASI Along with the theme of ‘Cherry Picking’, Wagener & Simon WASI GmbH & Co KG showcased a wide range of new developments at the recent Fastener Fair Stuttgart.

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ASI’s new developments included a new web presence, a new WASI App – available since the beginning of March for Android™ and iOS – and a completely renovated WASI web shop.

Live presentations of the web shop during the show – on monitors and via tablets – were a central attraction for many visitors. Customers were delighted by the new face of WASI, with the web shop and the new presence in general praised as being modern, easy to follow and fast.

“Our ‘Cherry Picking’ theme was also a hit. This topic concerns both customers and suppliers. The theory behind the theme was that it is not always economical to divide orders among two to three suppliers.

There was very positive feedback on this point, even from competitors.”

WASI reports that its stand was always busy and at peak times it was difficult to serve all the interested visitors. During the three days of the trade fair, the WASI sales team reported numerous excellent discussions with customers.

INDEX Abbey Clamps........................................15

Fastbolt................................................1, 2

Mitsutoyo Kiko Co Ltd..........................105

Schäfer + Peters GmbH......................... 31

Acton.................................................... 131

Fastener + Fixing Search....................... 91

MKT......................................................100

Schnorr GmbH.......................................33

Adolf Pühl GmbH & Co KG.......................5

Fastener + Fixing Technology..............149

Mubea Tellerfedern GmbH..................145

Schotte Automotive GmbH & Co. KG..... 114

Advance Spares Ltd.............................130

Fixi Srl....................................................65

Mustad Spa............................................ 71

Shanghai Fast-Fix Rivet Corporation.... 136

Albert Pasvahl GmbH & Co.................. 131

Fontana Gruppo.....................................13

Nakashimada Engineering Works Ltd....35

Shin Chun Enterprise Co Ltd............... 151

Alloy & Stainless..................................123

G & B Fissaggi Srl.................................57

National Machinery................................27

Sipa........................................................73

Ambrovit........................................... 50-55

GESIPA Blindniettechnik GmbH............65

ND Industries......................................... 81

Smith-Bullough Ltd............................. 147

Arpel.....................................................148

Graewe GmbH & Co KG......................... 31

NIFMSE..................................................43

Sormat Oy..............................................93

Avon Stainless Fasteners Ltd..............140

Grip it Fixings.........................................98

NOF Metal Coatings Europe........ 127, 128

Spirol....................................................129

Raimund Beck KG Wire-Staples-Company.....135

Growermetal............................................9

Norm Civata AS........................................4

Srubena-Unia S.A................................ 101

Bendfast Ltd........................................152

Hafren Fasteners Ltd.............................73

NORMA Group........................................49

Stafa Group............................................47

Berardi Bullonerie................................. 31

Harrison & Clough Ltd..........................25

Orbit International Corporation Ltd...... 72 Tecfi SpA.................................................95

Berdan Bolt & Nut Co.Ltd...................150

HECO-Schrauben GmbH & Co. KG........57

Peter Schröder GmbH.........................129 Tecno Impianti......................................115

Birlik Baglanti........................................39

Heinz Soyer............................................65

PGB........................................................99 Test GmbH............................................104

Böllhoff GmbH.......................................47

Heng Chang Fasteners........................145

Phillips Screw Company........................63

Thread Rolling Technology Ltd............106

Bossong............................................... 101

Hexstone Group.....................................87

Pinstructure Ltd.....................................15

Tillex.......................................................15

Bralo....................................................... 11

Hugo Benzing GmbH & Co KG...............39

Pivot Point..............................................29 Titibi...................................................... 101

Brighton-Best International................154

Index – Técnicas Expansivas S.L.............3

Precision Technology Supplies Ltd........79 Trojan....................................................152

BSJ Fixings............................................57 Johan Smit........................................... 137

Rexlen Corp.........................................149

BUMAX...................................................83

Kingwin Precision Co Ltd....................115

Reyher....................................................33

UDIB.......................................................17

Bülte Plastiques SA............................. 147

Kobout BV.............................................. 89

Rivco..................................................... 141

UPIVEB................................................... 21

Carlo Salvi............................................ 111

KOHLHAGE Fasteners GmbH................69

Rivelit.......................................................7

Vipa SPA.................................................39

Chaves Bilbao........................................19

Lederer............................................ 22, 24

Rivit Srl.................................................153

Vogelsang GmbH & Co KG............. 66, 123

Ching Chan Optical Technology Co Ltd... 112, 113

Lichthart Betriebsgesellschaft mbH.....115

Rosmil Industrial.................................145

Volt Industrial Plastics, Inc..................139

Constructions Anchors Inc....................96

London Screw Company......................142

Rote Mate...............................................37

Wafios Umformtechnik GmbH..... 107, 110

Don Quichotte B.V..................................93

Mecavit Srl.............................................23

Rotor Clip Ltd.........................................77

Wan Iuan Ent Co Ltd............................110

UBK........................................................85

DS Fasteners Ltd................................. 131

MEKR’S, s.r.o (Ltd).................................75

Sacma..................................................103

Wilh. Lüsebrink GmbH........................ 147

E.U.R.O Tec GmbH.................................67

Merlin Business Software................... 121

Saima Corporation...............................142

Wise Software......................................123

EFC International.................................143

Messe Düsseldorf Asia Pte Ltd.............73

Saspi Talleres.......................................109

LONG LASTING QUALITY FASTENERS & TOOLS SINCE 1973