Torque Direct – Issue 04 2023

Publisher Jerry Ramsdale Jerry@torque-direct.com

Editor Hayley Everett Hayley@torque-direct.com

Deputy Editor

Rachel King Rachel@torque-direct.com

Contributing Editor

Jonathon Harker Jonathon@torque-direct.com

Sales Manager – UK

Claire Warman Claire@torque-direct.com

Sales Manager – International Harry Whyte Harry.whyte@torque-direct.com

Circulation

Tracy Howell Tracy@torque-direct.com

Head of Production Luke Wikner production@torque-direct.com

Designers

Dan Bennett production@torque-direct.com

Victoria Arellano production@torque-direct.com

Published by Stag Publications Ltd 18 Alban Park Hatfield Road St Albans Herts AL4 0JJ tel: +44 (0)1727 739160

fax: +44 (0)1727 739169

Email: info@torque-direct.com

Web: www.torque-direct.com

Disclaimer Although

INSIDE THIS ISSUE EDITOR’S COMMENT

COVER PROFILE

08 Accu – From life-changing prosthetic limbs to cutting-edge conservation technologies, discover how engineers across the globe are building tomorrow with Accu components

TECHNICAL INSIGHTS

12 Safety & security – Securing the future of urban planning and ensuring quality expertise

18 JPG Système – The current trends, challenges and opportunities facing manufacturers in the aerospace industry

40 Berdan Civata – Selecting the correct fasteners for steel construction applications

IN-DEPTH – ROAD & RAIL

22 Analysis – Evaluating the current trends and challenges facing the global road and rail transportation sectors

24 Gala Precision Engineering –Transforming efficiency and safety in railway, road and off-highway transportation

28 EJOT UK – Providing greater flexibility in tunnelling applications with anchors

30 Nord-Lock – How incidents involving trucks can be avoided through improved safety measures

32 Expo Ferroviaria – Italy’s showcase for railway technology, products and systems returns to Milan in October

PRODUCT INNOVATIONS

14 Rivets & riveting technology – Fixi and Rivit share the latest innovations from the rivets sector

SPECIAL FEATURES

36 Women in engineering – Take a look at the individuals shaping the engineering industry of today

INDUSTRY EVENTS

20 Advanced Engineering – Inspiring the future of engineering and manufacturing

34 International Fastener Expo – The fastener industry will once again return to Las Vegas for this year’s International Fastener Expo

42 Taiwan International Tools & Hardware Expo – Shaping the future of the hardware and tools manufacturing market in Taiwan’s ‘tools kingdom’

To subscribe to Torque-Direct visit: torque-direct.com/subscribe or scan this QR code...

ELECTRIC DREAMS

THE GLOBAL transportation industry has faced its fair share of challenges this past year. From the recent fuel crisis to reductions in funding for public services and a shortage of skilled engineers, it has been a turbulent time for the sector. Add to this the current electricity crisis largely resulting from the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and progress in the area of electrification is also being hampered.

As a result, 2023 is shaping up to be a vital year for the industry as it continues to seek transparent and suitable fuel alternatives to power the world’s various road and rail transportation networks. As our In-Depth evaluation of the sector explains in more detail, the key areas to watch in this space are likely to include sustainable funding mechanisms, electric vehicles, modernisation, greater resilience, and digital innovation. On pages 2432, we hear from the fastener innovators helping to spearhead technological change in the road and rail realms and make transport safer, greener, and more efficient.

This issue also hears from the female pioneers and industry leaders currently shaping the direction of the fastener and tool industries (pages 36-28), and provides insight into the latest innovations from the rivets and riveting technology sector (pages 14-17). We also explore the crucial role safety and security fasteners will play in our future cities (page 12), evaluate the latest trends and challenges facing aerospace manufacturers (pages 18-19) and get the low-down on everything engineers need to know when selecting steel fasteners for their applications (pages 40-41).

As ever, Torque Direct previews the key industry events coming up over the next few months. On the bill for this issue is: Advanced Engineering, Ferroviaria 2023, Las Vegas’ International Fastener Expo and the Taiwan International Tools & Hardware Expo.

Hayley Everett Editor Hayley@torque-direct.com

As part of our commitment to the environment, Torque Direct is fully recyclable.

LATEST PRODUCTS > THE FASTENER & TOOL INDUSTRIES

ADVANCED PRECISION FASTENING

PANASONIC has released its new transducerised mechanical pulse tool offering high torque and advanced technology to maintain accuracy and consistency. The AccuPulse 4.0 Transducerised HT is specifically designed for advanced precision fastening with four onboard microcomputers, a built­in transducer and intelligently­managed torque sensing that helps manufacturers improve quality and motor control, accuracy, and data on the assembly line.

The tool’s reactionless ergonomics provide freedom of movement, error proofing and two­way wireless communication to deliver fastening accuracy and quality manufacturing.

“As manufacturers place greater importance on data to improve efficiencies and quality control, AccuPulse 4.0 Transducerised HT delivers an Industry 4.0­ready pulse tool that meets the engineering requirements of today’s smart factories,” says Aziz Lokhandwala, Senior Product Manager, Assembly Tools at Panasonic Eco Systems North America. “The AccuPulse 4.0 Transducerised HT was specifically designed for higher quality, better plant safety and greater efficiencies at a lower cost of ownership. Our exclusive algorithm enables this smart tool to learn joints and overcome difficult applications to maintain accuracy and consistency.”

www.panasonic.com/us/factoryequipment-solutions

CALIBRATION CAPABILITIES

Atlas Copco Tools & Assembly Solutions has received a unique landmark approval from the UK Accreditation Service (UKAS) for the calibration of electrically powered assembly tools. The first and currently only company to have secured this type of UKAS accreditation, the industrial tool manufacturer is able to provide calibrations for electrically powered and controlled torque devices from just 0.2NM up to 2,000NM.

The wide torque range covered by the additional UKAS

accreditation includes the company’s full portfolio of electric assembly tools and any other tightening tools that are electrically powered and electronically torque controlled. These include micro torque screwdrivers for low­torque applications such as electronics, cordless Tensor IxB assembly tools with integrated digital controllers for industrial assembly and vehicle production, and SRB HA smart battery nutrunners that provide traceable high torque bolt tightening for critical applications in the energy sector.

“Expanding the scope of our UKAS accreditation to include the calibration of electrically powered tightening tools and the related benefits in terms of cost savings, reduced downtime and quality assurance, reflects our focus on forging strategic partnerships with customers in the journey to the smart factory,” says Nicolas Van Zyl, Atlas Copco’s UK Calibration Manager. “Calibration is a key component of Atlas Copco’s ‘Smart Integrated Assembly’ concept, ensuring the accuracy and process reliability of assembly tools. Providing UKAS accredited calibrations makes a real difference for manufacturers, allowing electric assembly tools to be quickly re­calibrated and put back to work on the production line straight away.” www.atlascopco.com

DEMO DEMON SAW BLADE

Diablo Tools has introduced a new one­blade solution for maximising productivity in framing and demolition: the Demo Demon Next Generation Ultimate Framing/Demolition saw blade. Equipped with a new optimised Dura­Blend Carbide for the most extreme materials, the blade offers nano grind tooth technology for precise cuts and maximum blade life.

Standard carbide blades often cannot withstand the required cutting applications on the modern jobsite without dulling, breaking or failing when professionals need them

most. The new Demo Demon saw blade is designed to stand up to these requirements due to a new, specially formulated optimised Dura­Blend Carbide that combines micron carbide with hi­cobalt content. This helps the blade to withstand even the most extreme cuts while also offering up to 15 times the cutting life of standard blades. The saw blade also features a triple­grind, chamfer alternate top bevel tooth geometry for ultimate tracking control to ensure finer­quality cuts and longer blade life.

Accurate torque readings are vital for technicians in the field. Recognising this, Williams has released a new Digital Torque Checker capable of validating calibration of critical torque instruments right where work is being completed. The Digital Torque Checker is suited for manufacturing and assembly process control and data collection, coming in two modes of operation: track and click. The checker also features a N.I.S.T calibration certificate and is accurate to +/­ 1%.

Five models of the new Digital Torque Checker are available, each featuring a range of benefits such as: LCD display, one­button panel user interface, compact form factor for convenient mounting locations, adaptors for square drive torque instruments, and environmental protection IP40.

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ///////////////////////// ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// PRODUCT NEWS ////////// ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

www.williams-industrial.com

UNLEASH YOUR INNOVATION

Precision component supplier Accu impacts billions of people around the world. The company shares a selection of case studies from the past year demonstrating where and how its components are being used...

Behind every groundbreaking innovation and industry­changing technology, there are visionaries, brilliant minds and innovators who dare to see beyond the current landscape, challenging the norm to create something remarkable.

At the heart of these game­changing inventions and advancements, there’s often an unsung hero; the small precision components holding everything together.

In the dynamic sphere of engineering, Accu, a global supplier of precision components, plays a vital role. With a

BUILDING TOMORROW: HOW ACCU COMPONENTS POWER GLOBAL INNOVATIONS

1. TASKA Prosthetics Industry: Prosthetics and Medical Equipment

TASKA Prosthetics, a New Zealand­based prosthetics design and manufacturing company, has emerged as a pioneering force in the field of prosthetic technology.

range of over 500,000, Accu’s components are at the heart of some of the most transformative technologies impacting billions across the globe.

These small yet mighty components stand as a testament to a powerful truth – the biggest and most impactful ideas often start small.

From life­changing prosthetic limbs, to cutting­edge conservation technologies, discover how engineers and innovators across the globe are building tomorrow with Accu components.

Using a selection of Accu’s lightweight and durable components, TASKA has successfully engineered the world’s first waterproof, multi­articulating prosthetic hand, transforming the lives of individuals with limb differences around the world.

With a meticulous design that keeps the end user’s needs in the forefront, the TASKA Hand is a revolutionary prosthetic that empowers individuals to build confidence and develop lost abilities.

The company’s journey began with one profound experience that led to the creation of an innovative solution. After

For the HandGen2 – TASKA uses machine screws from Accu in sizes between M1.6 and M2.5, along with various general assembly hardware like pins, E-clips and circlips.

“FOR US, INNOVATION HAS NEVER BEEN ABOUT CREATING A PIECE OF NEW TECHNOLOGY – IT IS ALL ABOUT DELIVERING REAL-LIFE PRACTICALITY THAT IMPROVES PEOPLE’S LIVES.”

Mat Jury, Inventor & Director, TASKA Prosthetics

founder Mat Jury suffered a mountain biking accident resulting in dual arm fractures, he gained firsthand insight into the challenges faced by people with limb differences.

Motivated by this experience, Jury applied his engineering skill to pursue a vocation with a mission – inventing a prosthetic hand that could truly make a difference.

This innovation, tailored for robustness and versatility, was built upon insights from global experts, clinicians and first­hand users to directly address the shortcomings of previous myoelectric hands on the market – which were often hindered by fragility and limited usability.

TASKA’s success lies in its meticulous sourcing of quality components, including its choice of Accu for precision fasteners and assembly hardware.

“We use Machine Screws from Accu in sizes between M1.6 and M2.5, along with various general Assembly Hardware like Pins, E­Clips and Circlips”, comments David Lovegrove, TASKA’s Head of Design.

These components, with highly durable and lightweight properties, play a pivotal role in the creation of the TASKA Hand, which holds an IP67 waterproof rating, allowing users to carry out everyday tasks with confidence, even in adverse conditions.

Furthermore, the integration of Accu’s anti­vibration solutions ensures the durability and longevity of the prosthetic hand in the face of challenging conditions.

Central to TASKA’s ethos is its design­centric approach, marked by empathy­driven problem­solving and a commitment to enhancing both the functional and aesthetic aspects of prosthetic limbs.

Today, the company continues to develop new versions of the TASKA Hand with features such as improved dexterity which make it easier for users to achieve a secure grip and perform essential tasks like holding cutlery.

2. Labman Automation Industry: Robotics & Automation

Known for its cutting­edge robotics and laboratory automation, Labman Automation has been an Accu customer for several years, tapping into the company’s substantial range of fixings, fasteners and hardware to develop bespoke technology solutions.

Labman fully recognises the importance of embracing and advancing technologies, using its expertise to develop automated processes for the world’s leading companies.

From inception to manufacture, innovation is within the very DNA of Labman Automation. The team is fully committed to creating transformative productions and connected software solutions that not only integrate with existing processes, but develop and change whole industry operations for the better. Working closely with its worldwide customer base in over 50 countries, Labman produces world class automation solutions for Research & Development, labs and mass production facilities.

In partnership with Accu, Labman has created an innovative robot fighting championship, held annually at its HQ in North Yorkshire. The competition helps further the company’s efforts in recruiting talented young designers, engineers and technicians, whilst giving competitors a fun opportunity to showcase their skills.

Geared primarily towards students, but also professional combat robotics teams, this competition serves as a platform for testing their design and engineering prowess in constructing battle­ready robots. Drawing inspiration from the iconic TV series Robot Wars, participants unleash their creations in a specially designed bulletproof arena, striving to immobilise opponents through any means possible.

Following the success of its inaugural FightFest event in 2021, Labman joined forces with Accu to further elevate the competition. This partnership injects additional funding into the championship, with the dual objective of increasing awareness about FightFest and fostering a dynamic learning environment for

Labman Automation has been an Accu customer for several years, tapping into its substantial range of fixings, fasteners and hardware to develop bespoke technology solutions.

COVER PROFILE

3. Arribada Initiative Industry: Environmental & Conservation Technology

The Arribada Initiative, a not­for­profit organisation, is dedicated to the development of open and accessible conservation technologies that are specifically designed to better protect our planet.

Collaborating with global conservation groups, such as National Geographic, WWF, and RSPB, Arribada works to create affordable and accessible solutions for the conservation challenges that we face today.

Led by Alasdair Davies, a dedicated conservationist, the team conducts thorough research and development to design revolutionary hardware such as time­lapse cameras and marine enclosures.

Arribada’s collaborations extend to projects across the globe, including its Horizon tracking platform being used to study plastic waste movement in rivers and oceans. The organisation also aids WWF in detecting polar bears using thermal cameras in the Arctic, develop satellite­based sea turtle tags in Africa, and monitor penguin rookeries in Antarctica with time­lapse cameras.

For a comprehensive understanding of animal behaviours, these innovative technologies need to be incredibly resilient to endure the extreme conditions of the natural world – much like those found in the depths of the ocean or the chilling embrace of the Antarctic winter.

Given these challenging environments, Arribada relies on Accu’s extensive range of Stainless Steel Screws, Nuts, Bolts, and Fixings to securely seal enclosures, ensuring they remain impervious to saltwater immersion and harsh conditions.

Similarly, on land, its equipment mounts and scaffolds are fortified with the same high­performance components to guarantee integrity, strength, and long­lasting performance.

In fact, Arribada’s Antarctic time­lapse camera stands as a remarkable testament of the longevity of these components. Whilst initially designed for a one year deployment, the position of sea ice blocked access for the team preventing a timely retrieval. Impressively enough, the time­lapse camera persisted for over 3.5 years before finally being recovered, with its content intact and successfully downloaded.

4. Temple Cycles Industry: Bicycle Manufacturer

Temple Cycles, a Bristol based bike manufacturer, breathes new vitality into the cycling industry with its commitment to durable and timeless bicycles that are ‘Built To Last’.

Challenging the ‘throw away, upgrade’ culture commonly found in mainstream bicycle manufacturing, Temple Cycles aims to create quality bikes that are quite the opposite –simple, easily repaired and designed to become vintage.

As a matter of fact, the allure of reliable vintage bikes happens to be the source of inspiration to launch Temple Cycles, over a decade ago.

Founder Matt Mears, influenced by his Somerset cycling experiences, developed a keen fascination with vintage bikes. During his Mechanical Engineering studies, he restored bikes from the 1960s­80s, admiring their resilience and pure simplicity.

Recognising the challenge of finding an all­encompassing modern bike that mirrors the quality of their vintage predecessors, he aimed to create his own.

Temple Cycles officially launched in 2012, operating from its Bristol workshop, a dynamic hub for constructing, designing, and refining their bicycles.

In 2019, the brand extended its presence with the launch of a London store. Serving as a valuable extension to the workshop, this store grants inquisitive shoppers and cycling enthusiasts the opportunity to explore their offerings firsthand, testing out the bikes in person.

The brand’s design process, akin to Accu’s own commitment to quality, spans from conception through to testing.

As is to be expected for a bike that is ‘Built To Last’, component selection plays a vital role in the design process with each part being selected for its high quality and longevity. From mudguards to rack mounts installation, Temple Cycles uses a range of Accu’s Stainless Steel components throughout the assembly of its bikes.

For such a dynamic product, it is crucial that the components chosen for the bike are resilient against everyday wear and adverse weather conditions. With inherent resistance to corrosion and oxidation, A2 Stainless Steel proves to be durable and high­performing in such environments.

“Accu’s M5 Bolts are used throughout the bike assembly, from mudguard assemblies, to rack mounts and bottle cage mounts. We use Accu as we consistently get a quality product, and the delivery options are quick and reliable.” Says Dexter Robinson, Operations Manager for Temple

Cycles.

Accu’s M5 Bolts are used throughout the bike assembly, from mudguard assemblies, to rack mounts and bottle cage mounts.

Arribada relies on Accu’s extensive range of stainless steel fixings to securely seal enclosures, ensuring they remain impervious to saltwater immersion and harsh conditions.

5. Eleven-I Industry: Energy & Environmental Asset Monitoring

Wind energy has rapidly emerged as a pivotal player in the global quest for sustainable power sources. As wind turbine installations continue to expand, the efficiency of maintenance operations becomes paramount. A groundbreaking solution is on the horizon with Eleven­i, and its revolutionary technology that’s set to transform wind turbine maintenance.

Eleven­i redefines the landscape of wind turbine upkeep through its innovative approach. Traditional maintenance methods often involve time­consuming manual inspections and costly downtime. However, Eleven­i harnesses the power of cuttingedge technologies such as sensor nodes and predictive analytics software to streamline and enhance maintenance procedures.

By continuously collecting data from sensors embedded within the turbines, Eleven­i’s systems can detect early signs of wear and tear, as well as potential malfunctions. This datadriven approach enables maintenance teams to intervene proactively, preventing costly breakdowns and minimising operational disruptions.

Eleven­i uses Accu for all of its fixings, particularly M4 to M6 Stainless Steel Screws in a range of head and drive types, plus the Hex Nuts and Locking Nuts to go with them. The company firmly believes that developing strong working relationships with suppliers is key to success, particularly in maintaining these links as they grow.

One of the key advantages of Eleven­i choosing Accu for its component needs is the ability to maintain a lean supply chain, keeping stockholding to a minimum to avoid tying up capital on the shelf. This perfectly suits its business model, as devel

oping specially designed bespoke asset monitoring technology typically means highly targeted small­scale production.

Eleven­i stands at the forefront of a new era in wind turbine maintenance. Through the integration of its analytics software and sensor technology, the business is not only enhancing operational efficiency for its customers, but also contributing directly to the sustainability of the entire wind energy sector. As the world races to meet its renewable energy goals, these innovations from Eleven­i are catalysts for progress, revolutionising the way we harness and develop the technology to create clean and abundant wind power.

www.accu.co.uk

Eleven-i’s systems can detect early signs of wear and tear, as well as potential malfunctions.

“ELEVEN-I USES ACCU FOR ALL OF ITS FIXINGS, PARTICULARLY M4 TO M6 STAINLESS STEEL SCREWS IN A RANGE OF HEAD AND DRIVE TYPES, PLUS THE HEX NUTS AND LOCKING NUTS TO GO WITH THEM.”

SECURING FUTURE CITIES

5 reasons why security fixings are vital for the future of urban planning

As cities grow, the need for robust security measures becomes increasingly critical. Security fixings and fasteners play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and longevity of urban infrastructure. Anti­theft and antitamper security fastener specialist Hafren Fasteners has listed five ways in which these types of fasteners will be of importance for our future cities.

PROTECTING CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Security fixings offer a proactive approach to safeguarding essential components. Tamper­resistant screws, bolts, and nuts make it significantly harder for unauthorised individuals to gain access to critical infrastructure components, preventing potential disruptions, damage or even sabotage. Urban planners can incorporate security fixings to bolster the resilience of critical infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted services.

IMPROVING PUBLIC SAFERY

Security fixings play an important role in securing public spaces, street furniture and amenities. Tamper­proof fasteners can help to minimise the risk of vandalism, theft or intentional damage to public installations such as benches, street signs, lighting fixtures and public art. In addition to enhancing public safety, security fasteners can also help to create a sense of security in urban environments.

MITIGATING RISK

Modern cities face ever­evolving threats, such as terrorism and criminal activities. Security fixings can help to counteract these risks by offering enhanced protection against unauthorised access, tampering and forced entry. Utilising advanced fastening systems that are resistant to manipulation, urban planners can reduce vulnerabilities in high­risk areas like government building transportation systems and sensitive installations. Strengthening security measures can help to deter potential attackers and safeguard the well­being of citizens.

SAFEGUARDING SENSITIVE INFORMATION

In the digital age, safeguarding sensitive information and data is of the utmost importance. Security fixings play a vital role in protecting equipment that holds confidential or sensitive information, such as data centres, control rooms and communication networks. Temper­resistant fasteners can be used to secure cabinets, racks and enclosures that house critical technology infrastructure in order to ensure that sensitive information remains protected from unauthorised access. Robust security fixings can provide an added layer of defence against data breaches and potential disruptions to essential services.

FUTURE-PROOFING

For successful sustainable urban planning, environmental considerations must be considered alongside social and economic resilience. By integrating security fixings into urban infrastructure, planners can extend the lifecycle of assets and reduce maintenance costs. Tamper­proof fasteners also minimise the need for frequent repairs or replacements, resulting in long­term cost savings. Secure urban environments foster economic growth, attracting businesses, residents and toourists who value safety and security.

As cities continue to evolve and face new challenges, Hafren says security fixings will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety, resilience and sustainability of urban environments. Tamper­resistant fasteners are essential for protecting critical infrastructure, enhancing public safety and mitigating risks.

www.hafrenfasteners.com

Hafren's security fasteners save time and money when fixing applications that require a firm hold

”SECURITY FIXINGS CAN HELP TO COUNTERACT THESE RISKS BY OFFERING ENHANCED PROTECTION AGAINST UNAUTHORISED ACCESS, TAMPERING AND FORCED ENTRY.“

LANFRANCO: SELF-LOCKING SAFETY

French self­locking safety systems manufacturer J. Lanfranco has added more capabilities and equipment to its quality department that it claims ensures the same level of quality expertise as private laboratories. The company is compliant to standards NF EN ISO 898­2, NF EN ISO 3506­2, NF EN ISO 2320 and NF E25­035­2.

The latest investments guarantee the company’s safety fasteners are designed to meet the highest standards in the railway, mining, nuclear, aeronautical and petrochemical sectors. One of the machines that the company has invested in includes the Automatica, a new measuring bench capable of performing torque and tension tests from M5­M39 thanks to a four­way sensor and in­thread coefficient. The level of precision offered by the bench allows J. Lanfranco to measure the performance of its surface treatments and Filmogene.

Another investment made by the firm includes the ZEISS binocular machine, which is equipped with a magnification capacity of 1,000x and integrated measuring software that enables the company to directly control the protection thicknesses of its fasteners. This destructive test enables the company to ensure that its products comply with the strictest constraints.

The improvements have allowed J. Lanfranco to strengthen its expertise as a manufacturer of safety fasteners, and remain a major player in the global safety fastener industry. www.lanfranco.fr

”THE LATEST INVESTMENTS GUARANTEE THE COMPANY’S SAFETY FASTENERS MEET THE HIGHEST STANDARDS ACROSS MULTIPLE INDUSTRIES.“

The Automatica measuring bench

RIVETS & RIVETING TECHNOLOGY

KEEP THE PACE

RIV730 and RIV740 are suitable for rivet nuts up to M12. Flexibility, ease of use and a powerful brushless engine are among the key features of the new product range.

NEW TOOL RANGES

The RIV710 battery tool for blind rivets from Ø2.4 up to Ø4.8 mm is equipped with a powerful and reliable brushless motor and long­lasting battery, making simplicity and reliability its strong point. The tool offers customers a value­added solution capable of covering a wide range of applications for rivets in all major alloys and steels, featuring a marked nozzle for easy rivet matching and an end cone made of steel for greater strength and durability.

Other key features of the RIV710 include a bright LED indicating the operation of the tool, an easily removable container for nails and an ergonomic handle made of soft rubber. The tool is suited to applications such as general tanks, carpentry, building materials, corrugated panels, insulated roofing, plastics, batteries, cabinets and switchboards, among others.

Rivit is reinforcing its global presence on the fasteners and tools market with a double approach: from one side the company intends to “keep the pace” on the Italian market where the brand is well­known and appreciated, while from the other it aims to “increase presence and share in Europe and overseas countries” where there are many interesting opportunities.

First, let’s deep dive into the Rivit strategy in Italy. The core business of blind rivets, rivet nuts and related tools is going to be boosted by the introduction of new tools, a new important distribution partnership with PEM/Haeger for self­clinching fasteners, and a partnership with the e­tailer “Mister Worker” with a new physical point of sales on top of the web platform. This strategy will consolidate the Rivit brand on traditional core business while opening up more opportunities both in the industrial and retail channels. This will consolidate a multichannel Rivit approach in Italy that is furtherly enhanced by the synergies with the sister companies FERVI and RIFLEX.

Concerning the markets outside of Italy, Rivit is actively working on a selected network of business partners on the main GEOs. USA is among the most important markets for Rivit, especially for the automotive market, together with Germany, France and the Nordics. The East and Far East are the areas where Rivit’s growth is typically more consistent. Industrial automation is for sure the market segment with the highest potential, as a result of the skilled worker shortage that began with the pandemic and the need to increase automated solutions with big data to improve efficiency during the manufacturing process.

As part of this strategy, Rivit is increasing its battery tools offer with a brand new range of products for blind rivets and rivet nuts. The new RIV710 and and RIV720 are designed to cover the needs of the blind rivet market up to 6.4, while

The RIV720, while equipped with the same powerful and reliable brushless motor and battery, is designed for blind rivets from Ø2.4 up to Ø6.4 mm. Additional features include a knurled ring nut on the end cone that can be loosened and tightened by hand and a robust start button integrated into the main body. As well as the applications met by the RIV710, the RIV720 can also be used within solar panels and roof brackets of variable thicknesses. In regards to packaging, the tool comes equipped with a new practical and durable case with an extensive array of accessories, including two batteries. www.rivit.it

”USA IS AMONG THE MOST IMPORTANT MARKETS FOR RIVIT, ESPECIALLY FOR THE AUTOMOTIVE MARKET.“

Rivit’s Head of Product Marketing & Development Marco Mallegni provides an overview of the company’s growth strategy and how it is increasing its battery tools offering

The new range comes equipped with a new practical and durable case

Metal anchoring for concrete. Advanced. Approved. Available.

The demands of fixing into uncracked and cracked concrete are wide and varied. Which is why EJOT’s range of solutions are equally varied, from the temporary fastening of facade scaffolding and cladding to the anchoring of structural elements such as railings, steel stairs, facade components. The high quality of EJOT and LIEBIG anchoring products ensures safety and high load-bearing capacity values – promoting confidence in design and specification.

MADE

DIVERSIFICATION BREEDS SUCCESS

Fasteners specialist FIXI Group discusses how diversifying its product portfolio is opening up new markets

Since 1984, FIXI Group has manufactured and supplied a wide range of fasteners and fastening technologies to the metal sheet, solid parts and plastic component industries. Serving hundreds of customers in Europe and overseas, the group has continuously improved its services and range of products to offer more customer­orientated solutions in these industries.

Historically, the core of FIXI’s business has focused on metal sheet working fasteners such as blind rivets, rivet nuts, and self­clinching and welding fasteners. Now, the company is undertaking several initiatives to introduce new lines of fastening systems to address a variety of different industries.

SELF-ANCHORING INSERTS

Over the last few months, FIXI has developed and begun to sell its own self­anchoring insert for stone and solid surfaces, known as the IXKB Series. According to FIXI, feedback on the new range from its customers has been positive, encouraging the R&D team to further develop the product not only for the interior design industry for applications like kitchen and bathroom countertops, but also for the construction industry. To this end, the company has started a cooperation with important companies specialised in wall cladding systems to offer structures and anchors for a full solution in cladding and façade projects.

BONDING FASTENERS

Another project that FIXI’s R&D department is carrying out involves creating a new line of bonding fasteners for composites, with a full range of studs, standoffs, and nuts on different types of plates. With the new range, the company plans to compete in new emerging industries such as composites and new materials.

FIXI is entering a range of new industries with its products

The R&D department is developing several new product ranges

FIXI’s core product range includes blind rivets, rivet nuts and self-clinching and welding fasteners

PNEUMATIC TOOLS

Meanwhile, FIXI has also been working on the development of an innovative pneumatic tool for installing key­locking inserts, known as Keensert. The tools is designed to provide a more efficient solution for installing such inserts compared to other commonly used manual tools.

A SUCCESSFUL START

According to FIXI, the first few months of 2023 were successful for the group, with an increase in domestic and international sales of around 10% compared to the same period in 2022. For many other markets, the group has noted some slowdowns in the European production growth, especially from typically

high sales countries such as Germany and France. However, the company considers this to be a temporary consequence of the international measures aimed at countering the inflation peak experienced in the past few months.

To best prepare itself for when sales will begin to rise again, FIXI is enlarging its stock capability with the acquisition of a new building next to its headquarters in Turin. A new warehouse spanning more than 3,200 square metres will be ready for operation from September, while a new quality department containing the latest technologies and equipment will soon be operative in a new facility as well. In total, the group’s five branches located across Italy make up more than 6,000 square metres, guaranteeing plenty of space for all its ranges of fasteners and fastening technologies. As a result, this will ensure fast deliveries for all FIXI’s existing and new customers across Europe and overseas.

www.fixi.it

”THE COMPANY IS UNDERTAKING SEVERAL INITIATIVES TO INTRODUCE NEW LINES OF FASTENING SYSTEMS.“

”FIXI IS ENLARGING ITS STOCK CAPABILITY WITH THE ACQUISITION OF A NEW BUILDING NEXT TO ITS HEADQUARTERS IN TURIN.“

JPG SYSTÈME

ON THE RUNWAY

JPB Système’s Grégory Chauvet shares his thoughts on the current trends, challenges and opportunities facing manufacturers within the aerospace industry

Now that we’re past the half-way point in 2023, what are your main observations so far and are they those of opportunity or challenge?

It’s probably a mixture of both. Following COVID, this year marks the first full year in which most of the industry is back at 100%. Be it for business or leisure, people are travelling again, but the pressure is on to get back to full volumes quickly and even surpass those of 2022, while struggling with an industry­wide recruitment issue. To compound things further, other external factors have contributed to material shortages, which has in turn driven up costs. In fact, I would say that rising costs across the board – encompassing materials, energy prices, salaries and other expenses that are an ongoing issue for many within the whole aerospace manufacturing and supply chain. So, while we are pleased to be getting growth back on track and putting COVID in the rear­view mirror, like many others, we are grappling with plenty of other concurrent challenges.

With the digitalisation of general manufacturing continuing to gather pace, is this something that you are also seeing within the aerospace sector?

I think it’s recognised that within the aerospace sector, the pace of digitalisation is somewhat slower than in other key sectors like automotive. It is of course happening, especially among large players, but there are still plenty of companies deploying older, mechanised technologies. JPB Système is ahead of the curve having begun to automate its operations some time ago. Indeed, we were one of the first companies in France to estab

lish Industry 4.0 production that increasingly deploys robots and technologies like 3D printing to advance this. We’re not seeing it as onlookers; we’re embracing it and driving it.

The benefits of automated production are even more obvious if you consider the current issue of skilled labour shortages that I mentioned previously. We would all favour employing more skilled personnel if we could, but we are nonetheless offsetting that problem if we are able to automate related areas of manufacturing processes and make ourselves less reliant upon it when it isn’t available.

What do you think manufacturers and the aerospace industry ore generally should be doing to overcome the current skill shortage issue?

We must come together as an industry to not only tackle the current recruitment challenge, but also constantly highlight our worth so that over the long term, we ensure the next generation remains enthusiastic about joining the aviation sector.

It’s two­fold: first, as employers we need to make the effort to attract people to the industry in the first place. From our own perspective, we often welcome students into our facility to showcase our advanced production operations and enable the potential operators and engineers of tomorrow to see for themselves the exciting and attractive workplaces the sector offers – environments that are a sometimes a million miles from their preconceptions.

Second, once they are through the door, employers need to demonstrate their commitment to new hires by supporting growth either within the role or department, but also across other areas of the company. For me, it’s an obligation to ensure our people remain permanently satisfied. That means encouraging them to acquire experience in other areas, building a stronger and more rounded set of skills so that they are energised and inspired

Gregory Chauvet, General Manager at JPB Système

as they develop and learn, rather than remain in one lane for the whole time they are with us.

Fundamentally, it’s about always proving to your employees that they are valued. I think the fact that at JPB Système, we were able to ride out the COVID 19 pandemic with zero reduction in headcount, underscores that.

What advice can you offer to other manufacturers to help them navigate this tough sector?

I think it’s about exploring ways to diversify one’s product portfolio, while in­building innovation within that solutions offering. In our instance, despite a long­standing heritage as a supplier to aerospace engine manufactures, we continue to look at how we take appropriate products into other relevant sectors like rail or energy where there may be similar application needs. Beyond existing products for new markets, we have already diversified as a company to provide entirely new advanced non­sector specific solutions for the wider manufacturing industry, evidenced by our KeyProd production monitoring solution. I would always say customer satisfaction and quality are paramount. After all, a technologically advanced product that meets the customers’ needs is of little use if you fail to hit delivery times or there are failure issues. Companies that can successfully address that collective mix stand a far­better chance of not only keeping their existing customers but winning new ones to futureproof business.

www.jpb-systeme.com

”WE WERE ONE OF THE FIRST COMPANIES IN FRANCE TO ESTABLISH INDUSTRY 4.0 PRODUCTION THAT INCREASINGLY DEPLOYS ROBOTS AND TECHNOLOGIES LIKE 3D PRINTING.“

JPB Systeme was one of the first companies in France to establish Industry 4.0 production

ADVANCED ENGINEERING

REBRANDING WITH A FUTURE FOCUS

Now in its 14th year, Advanced Engineering will once again take place at the NEC in Birmingham between 1­2 November. The show returns this year with a fresh and future­focused rebrand, removing the previous show zones from its exhibition floor and introducing a main stage for the event’s well­attended forums.

“Making these challenges wasn’t any easy or a quick decision,” says Alison Willis, Director of Easyfairs, the organiser of Advanced Engineering. “We spoke to over 200 exhibitors, visitors and speakers to make sure that any changes made were futureproof and reflective of all stakeholders. We realised that many of the issues that our exhibitors and visitors are facing align, no matter what sector they’re from. Take sustainability as an exam

ple – we wanted to make sure that our floor plan gave attendees the best opportunity of sharing ideas and solutions to challenges like this.”

Originally starting out as a specific aerospace event 14 years ago, Advanced Engineering has since expanded greatly. “2023 felt like the right time to break down the walls that separated our exhibitors to fully encourage collaboration across industries and to prepare the show for a new era of manufacturing and engineering,” Willis adds.

To ensure that visitors and exhibitors can still easily find relevant contacts, exhibitors at the show will now be categorised by the services, products and solutions they offer. Companies will be able to highlight all of the sectors they work in, removing any limitations created by the specific show zones. In addition to encouraging visitors from the show’s established sectors, Advanced Engineering now hopes to attract visitors from newer sectors such as marine, security, rail, energy, sports and leisure, and medical.

The exhibition floor was previously divided into several different zones covering composites, automotive, aerospace and connected manufacturing. Now, the long­established composite zone will remain while the other zones will be removed. These sectors will still retain a strong presence at the event, though, with the industry­specific forums remaining. There will also be a main central stage on the exhibition floor where discussions about key challenges in the engineering sector will take place.

This year will see the show welcome back a full speaker programme with representatives from some of the leading companies in UK manufacturing. Attendees will be able to access the talks free of charge, totalling around 50 ours of free CPD accredited learning. Previous speakers have hailed from leading firms such as Jaguar Land Rover, Make UK, Rolls­Royce and Airbus.

www.advancedengineeringuk.com

Advanced Engineering returns to the NEC in November with an overhauled exhibition floor plan. Torque Direct previews what attendees can expect from this year’s event

”2023 FELT LIKE THE RIGHT TIME TO BREAK DOWN THE WALLS THAT SEPARATED OUR EXHIBITORS TO FULLY ENCOURAGE COLLABORATION ACROSS INDUSTRIES AND TO PREPARE THE SHOW FOR A NEW ERA OF MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING“

SMART FACTORY AND SUSTAINABILITY

Aimed at supporting manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers in the transition to fully automated operations, Atlas Copco Tools & Industrial Assembly Solutions is doubling its footprint at this year’s Advanced Engineering show. The smart tooling and industrial assembly solutions specialist will be showcasing its Smart Factory philosophy during the event.

Central to Atlas Copco’s ‘Smart Integrated Assembly’ is the goal of eliminating costly rework and material wastage, in pursuit of sustainable manufacturing. Advanced Engineering will see Atlas Copco feature ‘Avantguard’, its latest generation error­proofing software. The web­based solution provides ultimate flexibility, with the software able to run on any device with any operating system, that integrates with existing customer IT infrastructure.

Atlas Copco’s ‘Smart Integrated Assembly’ is designed to wirelessly connect all digital tools throughout the factory, harnessing the latest 5G connectivity on selected tool models in order to optimise production, improve quality, reduce costs and energy consumption. Utilising its customisable ‘ToolsControl’ solution removes the need for separate controllers for each tool on the production line. Atlas Copco’s innovative software creates a single environment for connecting every tool in the factory to the client’s MES (Manufacturing Execution System), which delivers significant reductions in hardware costs and floor space.

Complementing the assembly solutions being showcased will be ISRA VISION, part of the Atlas Copco group, that provides inspection systems which identify possible problems and defects at different stages of the production process, enabling manufacturers to further improve their quality assurance.

“As a strategic partner to manufacturers, Atlas Copco is fully committed to improving production efficiency by harnessing real­time data insights and hyper flexibility, as part of a smart manufacturing ecosystem,” says James McAllister, General Manager, Atlas Copco Tools & Industrial Assembly Solutions. “We are looking forward to demonstrating Smart Integrated Assembly with the ToolsControl ‘controller anywhere’ concept, as well as a comprehensive range of Smart connected solutions, including 5G and real­time software, to enable factbased decision making that will revolutionise production line design into a full Smart Factory.”

Atlas Copco’s stand will also feature a racing car in recognition of the company’s partnership with Red Bull Ford Powertrains, for the development of a new engine for 2026. Atlas Copco is providing Red Bull Ford Powertrains with a range of tightening technologies designed to boost innovation, enhance productivity and increase quality within the assembly process. Its Tensor IxB series of assembly tools with built­in controllers will revolutionise production line operation, providing improved

productivity and agility in the smart factory environment, while its Tools Talk 2 tool programming software will streamline the assembly line through simultaneous configuration of multiple power controllers and virtual tool stations from a single platform. Atlas Copco will also supply Red Bull Powertrains with ToolsNet8 data collection software and STR digital smart wrench, which will be used to disassemble the engines after use.

www.atlascopcogroup.com

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

European Springs, a UK manufacturer and supplier of pressings, springs and wire forms, has invested a substantial £500,000 in its production capabilities, highlighting its dedication to precision and quality. The latest addition to its arsenal is a renowned Bruderer stamping press machine, known for its exceptional precision and efficiency. The machine integrates seamlessly with the company’s state­of­the­art CNC machinery, solidifying its position as a leader in the manufacturing sector.

Bruderer machines have earned a distinguished reputation throughout the manufacturing sector, particularly in metal stamping and forming processes. These specialised stamping presses use for the shape or cut metal and other materials with precision dies and tooling, and are known for their precision, rapid cycle times and productivity.

Attendees at Advanced Engineering can find out more about the new capabilities enabled by the acquisition of the Bruderer machine during the show.

www.europeansprings.com

Atlas Copco’s Smart Integrated Assembly line

The Bruderer machine will enhance component precision and quality

THE FUTURE IS ELECTRIC

This in-depth feature looks at the current trends and challenges facing the global road and rail transportation sectors, within which fasteners play a crucial role in regards to safety, innovation, and enabling technological advances

The global transportation industry has undergone a turbulent few years. Against the backdrop of the recent fuel crisis, the industry has faced problems regarding funding, the efficiency and fairness of fuel taxes, and the need to seek transparent and sustainable fuel alternatives. Furthermore, the growing share of electric vehicles (EVs) and the development of the charging infrastructure needed to support this has been hampered somewhat by the current electricity crisis largely as a result of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Aside from these issues, the transport sector is also facing a talent crunch of skilled engineers and specialists who are depended upon to provide the technological advancements required by the industry to become more efficient, sustainable, and safe.

Multinational professional services provider Deloitte has identified five key trends that will influence the road and rail industries throughout 2023 and beyond: Sustainable funding mechanisms, EVs, modernisation of transportation systems, more resilient transportation networks, and digital and technology innovation.

As a result, 2023 is shaping up to be a vital year for the industry with the added issues of ongoing staff shortages and strikes, the increasing effects of climate change, and evolving passenger demands. Let’s dive deeper into the crucial role that fasteners play in both the road transport and rail sectors, and how innovative fastener solutions are helping to spearhead to technological advancements in these industries.

FASTENERS FOR RAIL

Rail fastenings are used to secure rails into chairs or directly to sleepers in order to facilitate an effective transfer of force between the train and track, prevent the longitudinal movements of rails and dampen the noise and vibration emanating

”THE TRANSPORT SECTOR IS ALSO FACING A TALENT CRUNCH OF SKILLED ENGINEERS AND SPECIALISTS WHO ARE DEPENDED UPON TO PROVIDE THE TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS.“

from them. These types of fastening systems are specifically designed to limit the rail’s ability to rotate around its outer edge, assist in maintaining track gauge, and prevent creeping.

There are several different types of rail fastenings. Fish plates are used to keep the rail line properly aligned to ensure continuity of the rails and allow for expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature. Spikes, meanwhile, serve the purpose of holding the rails to the wooden sleeper, and should possess significant strength for holding the rails in position. They should also be easy to fix and replace to ensure straightforward and convenient maintenance. Elsewhere, bolts are used to fasten fish plates to the rails at every rail joint, fix sleepers to girders, and attach chairs and bearing plates to wooden sleepers. Comprised of cast iron, chairs are deployed to hold the bull­headed and double­headed rails in the desired position, while keys ­ small and tapered wooden or steel pieces – are used to connect the rails to chairs on metal sleepers. Additionally, bearing plates are placed between the flat­footed rails and timber sleepers on a track, and are comprised of cast iron, wrought iron or steel.

When selecting which of these fasteners to use, engineers must consider several different factors:

Permissable speeds

Category of the track

Loads emanating from the acceleration/deceleration of trains

Track geometry

Vehicular axle loads

Electrical insulation

Underlying formation and structures supporting the track

The form of track construction

FASTENERS FOR ROAD

When it comes to the road sector, there are many different types of applications for which fasteners are crucial. Bolts, nuts, screws, spacers and springs are used in practically every car component, and it is estimated that there are some 64,000 different fastener designs used throughout the automotive industry.

Metal fasteners, commonly iron or aluminium alloy, are used to position and fasten heavy items, engine parts and suspension components, while plastic fasteners such as connectors, pins, spacers and washers offer a lightweight solution to fastening together various materials for a wide range of car applications. In addition to securing the vital internal components of vehicles, fasteners also play a key role in numerous other vehicle applications, such as storage compartments on buses, seating fixings, soft trim fastenings for interiors, cab fixings for trucks, body panel fixings, and fastenings used in vehicle conversions, to name a but few.

Aside from the vehicles themselves, fasteners are also key to ensuring our road infrastructure is safe and secure. Heavy duty stud bolts, hex nuts, ground screws and other large fasteners are crucial in securing structures such as overhead gantries, roadside signs, tunnels, communication towers and other heavy structures that need to be held up safely in the vicinity of people. High quality fasteners provide a safe and secure foundation for highway and infrastructure applications that keep our freight and transport networks functioning effectively.

In this in­depth feature, we hear from the fastener and fixing companies offering new and established fastening and fixing systems to the road and rail sectors to ensure better safety, reliability and security.

”HIGH QUALITY FASTENERS PROVIDE A SAFE AND SECURE FOUNDATION FOR HIGHWAY AND INFRASTRUCTURE APPLICATIONS THAT KEEP OUR FREIGHT AND TRANSPORT NETWORKS FUNCTIONING EFFECTIVELY.“

Coil springs are used in gangway couplers, break heads and engine spring exhaust valves

TRANSFORMING EFFICIENCY & SAFETY

Transportation is crucial for connecting people, facilitating commerce, and driving global economic growth. The railway and road industries are vital components of this transportation network, continuously striving to improve infrastructure, enhance safety measures, and promote sustainability. At GALA Group, we take great pride in being a leading provider of precision­engineered components that are revolutionising performance standards in transportation systems. With a strong focus on pushing the technological boundaries, we are actively shaping the future of transportation.

Recognising the pivotal role of transportation in our society, we understand the significance of excellence and innovation. Through our state­of­the­art manufacturing facilities, we are at the forefront of transforming efficiency, reliability, and safety across various sectors, including railways, roads and off­highway applications.

ENSURING SAFETY AND RELIABILITY

Safety and reliability are paramount in railway systems. We specialise in providing a wide range of components tailored specifically for railway applications. Our product offerings include Disc Springs – DIN 2093 Std, High Tensile Fasteners and Studs, Gallock Wedge­Lock Washers, and Coil Springs. These meticulously engineered products are designed to withstand the rigorous forces and vibrations encountered in railway systems. Our high­tensile fasteners and studs create strong and reliable connections, contributing to the overall safety and dependability of the Track Fastening system, protecting both passengers and cargo. Our products have been thoroughly tested and approved by leading OEMs in Germany, Japan, USA, Denmark and France.

GALA Group shares how it is transforming efficiency and safety in railway, road and off-highway transportation

”WHETHER IT’S THE TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS, FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM PARTS, BRAKES, OR SEAT RECLINING SYSTEMS, OUR COMPONENTS PLAY A VITAL ROLE.“

Disc springs provide reliable and consistent load distribution

One of our key offerings is Disc Springs, designed to provide reliable and consistent load distribution in the bogies and coaches of semi­speed and high­speed trains. These springs efficiently absorb and distribute forces, ensuring stability and minimising the risk of component failure. With their ability to withstand heavy loads and resist fatigue, Disc Springs play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and dependability of railway infrastructure.

To enhance the integrity and stability of bolted connections, we utilise Gallock Wedge­Lock Washers in various applications such as traction motors, traction push rods, control arm bushes, outer bearing caps, gear box assemblies, and compressor­tofan fittings. These washers feature a unique design that creates a wedging action, effectively countering vibrations and dynamic forces. By maintaining optimal tension and preventing loosening, they ensure long­term reliability and prevent the risk of accidents or failures caused by loosened connections. Gallock Wedge Lock Washers provide an additional layer of safety, contributing to the overall stability of railway systems.

Coil Springs, meanwhile, are used in gangway couplers and for break heads and engine spring exhaust valves to provide suspension and cushioning in diesel locomotives and metros, ensuring a comfortable and smooth ride for passengers. These springs are carefully designed to absorb dynamic loads, vibrations and shocks, reducing the impact on rolling stock and enhancing passenger comfort. By minimising wear and tear on train components and ensuring a stable and comfortable travel experience. Coil springs play a significant role in maintaining the safety, reliability and passenger satisfaction in railway systems.

”WE SPECIALISE IN PROVIDING A WIDE RANGE OF COMPONENTS TAILORED SPECIFICALLY FOR RAILWAY APPLICATIONS.“

Fastening system for ballast-less track

Traction motor of locomotive

ENHANCING STABILITY AND ENDURANCE

In the realm of the road industry, we pride ourselves on being experts in supplying durable and high­performance components that are essential for maintaining stability and withstanding the harshest operating conditions. Our wide­ranging product portfolio includes heavy­duty washers, cushion springs, slotted disc springs, coil springs and conical springs, each designed for specific systems within vehicles.

When it comes to breaks, our slotted disc springs enable precise load distribution and controlled deflection, ensuring optimal braking performance and driver confidence. And for the seat reclining system, our spiral springs deliver consistent force, allowing for comfortable adjustments and ensuring passenger comfort during long journeys.

In addition to these components, we offer damper and pressure springs with critical index and E1 and E2 parameters. These specialised springs are designed to uphold the integrity of road infrastructure and vehicles; smooth riding comfort and meet stringent performance requirements. For heavyduty applications, our conical springs provide reliable suspension support, even under heavy loads, contributing to stability and control.

Whether it’s the transmission systems, fuel injection system parts, brakes, or seat reclining systems, our components play a vital role. They are specifically engineered to absorb load forces, provide shock absorption and dampening, and ensure reliable force transmission. In essence, they significantly contribute to the overall performance and safety of vehicles on the road.

Through our contributions to the railway, road and off­highway sectors, we aim to enhance performance, safety and sustainability in transportation systems. We actively collaborate with industry partners to develop innovative solutions that address the evolving needs of modern transportation. GALA’s expertise positions the group as a driving force in propelling technological advancements and shaping the future of transportation, while actively contributing to the global connectivity and trade that drive our modern world.

www.galagroup.com

”TO ENHANCE THE INTEGRITY AND STABILITY OF BOLTED CONNECTIONS, WE UTILISE GALLOCK WEDGE-LOCK WASHERS“

Axel counting sensor

Bogie mounted braking system

Gallock Wedge-lock washers are designed to counter vibrations and dynamic forces

Gangway coupler

FLEXIBILITY IN TUNNELLING

Heavy duty ‘post installation’ anchors are ideal for providing secure attachments in tunnel construction projects and schemes to refurbish or upgrade existing tunnels. From brackets for cabling, lighting, signage and traffic signals to ventilation equipment and overhead catenary systems in rail projects, the varied requirements of tunnel projects mean casting­in all of the required anchors at the design stage is not feasible.

Shallow concrete depth, spacing restrictions and close edge distances, which are very typical challenges in construction projects, have routinely been major hurdles to cost effective anchoring because these scenarios often require the need for custom­made anchors with high unit costs and lengthy lead times.

The LIEBIG Superplus BLS modular anchor from EJOT, however, is redefining the possibilities. As this is a self­undercutting anchor, it requires no special setting tool during installation, but most importantly it offers excellent performance characteristics with a relatively small hole diameter.

This means the anchor is particularly effective for applications where only a shallow embedment depth is possible, or where there is a need to either anchor at reduced spacings or close to the edge of the concrete – with potential cost savings because baseplates can be smaller than usual.

Hence why post­installation anchors are important in tunnel construction. Unfortunately, however, the technical limitations of the vast majority of standard range anchors do not necessarily provide engineers or contractors with an easy or costeffective solution.

The Superplus BLS also enables two embedment depths per anchor diameter. This gives greater flexibility to the designer, as it enables the necessary embedment depth to be achieved to satisfy the design criteria without a need to change baseplate design.

By increasing the anchor length, as defined by both the effective embedment depth and thickness of the member to be fastened, a greater volume of concrete can be activated by the

EJOT

UK’s anchoring systems specialist Paul Papworth explains how a modular post-installation anchor can provide greater flexibility in tunnelling applications

”THE ANCHOR IS PARTICULARLY EFFECTIVE FOR APPLICATIONS WHERE ONLY A SHALLOW EMBEDMENT DEPTH IS POSSIBLE.“

Tunnel catenary systems are the kind of applications ideally suited to Superplus BLS

The cone of influence has an impact on the spaces permissible between anchors and how close they can be used to the edge of the concrete

CONE OF INFLUENCE

anchor, increasing the concrete capacity and thus the tensile resistance of the anchorage.

This anchor’s versatility comes from the way it utilises a larger cone of influence, given its deeper embedment in the

concrete. Increased embedment depth equals increase cone volume, which in turn leads to increased cone surface area and increased tensile resistance.

Crucially, this larger cone of influence impacts on the spaces permissible between anchors and how close they can be used to the edge of the concrete. Using anchors at closer spacings is beneficial in applications such as tunnel ventilation fans and overhead catenary supports where the position of the support may be close to the edge of a precast tunnel segment.

The modular design of Superplus BLS adds to its flexibility due to the bespoke lengths of the main threaded bolt and simple adjustments to the distance sleeve, which relates directly to the base plate thickness, can be made by EJOT at our Yorkshire factory with relative ease.

www.liebig.co.uk/ejot

CUSTOMISABLE FOR BESPOKE LENGHTS

Superplus BLS anchor can be easily customised without the lengthy lead times or high costs usually associated with bespoke solutions

”THE MODULAR DESIGN OF SUPERPLUS BLS ADDS TO ITS FLEXIBILITY DUE TO THE BESPOKE LENGTHS OF THE MAIN THREADED BOLT AND SIMPLE ADJUSTMENTS TO THE DISTANCE SLEEVE.“

Using Superplus BLS closer to the edge of concrete and at closer spacings can deliver many benefits

DRIVING TRUCK SAFETY

through improved safety measures

Few traffic safety topics are more earnestly discussed in Germany than the need for modern safety systems on trucks. Figures from previous years published by the German Federal Statistical Office have noted thousands of accidents involving trucks and cyclists, with a significant number of these leading to fatalities. Many f these incidents were caused by trucks not being able to see cyclists when turning.

As a result, demands to ban trucks completely from German cities are on the rise, while pressure is growing on the government to take action. An EU­wide regulation on extended truck safety systems is already under discussion but is not expected to become law before 2024.

Taking the initiative with truck safety

One company looking to get ahead of the new legislation is EDEKA Südbayern, one of the largest food retailers in Germany. Four years ago, the company developed a turning assistant with an integrated camera that eliminates the ‘blind spot’ for the truck driver, allowing them to see cyclists and pedestrians more easily.

“After several fatal road accidents involving trucks in the region, I conducted research and found out that there were no corresponding safety solutions on the market,” says Anton Klott, the company’s Technical Director. “Our trucks drive through all big cities in this region and turning is always a dangerous manoeuvre. I decided to develop the solution myself, and two months later, we had the first turning assistant on the road.”

Today, the system is distributed externally by a partner in the truck market and has so far been installed in more than 2,000 vehicles belonging to other companies.

“We are a food retailer that loves safety,” continues Klott. “These accidents have dramatic consequences, also for the truck drivers. Statistics show that 80% of all drivers involved in a fatal accident suffer long term stress and are unable to continue working. Police and other first responders also need psychological support to cope with these incidents.”

EDEKA Südbayern has a fleet of around 300 trucks and 475 truck drivers covering the entire southern part of Germany. The turning assistant is just one part of the firm’s vision of creating safer trucks, with other important safety features including a reversing assistant that can initiate an automatic brake, ultrasonic rear sensors, and side flashing lights.

No more loose nuts

Alongside these additional safety measures, EDEKA Südbayern also looked at how it could fix a crucial safety issue with loosening wheel nuts in its trucks by working with bolt specialist Nord­Lock.

“We used to have big problems with loosening wheel bolts,” explains Klott. “Sometimes they were not properly de­rusted, sometimes the driver forgot to retighten them. Alternative solutions were always complicated. For example, the driver had to check regularly that certain indicators on the wheel

Nord-Lock's wheel nuts are suited for both on and off-road vehicles

German food retailer EDEKA Südbayern demonstrates how incidents involving trucks and vulnerable road users can be avoided

”TRUCK SAFETY IS HIGH ON THE PUBLIC AGENDA IN GERMANY, AND EDEKA SÜDBAYERN HAS PROVEN THAT THIS DOESN’T NEED TO BE AN EXPENSIVE UNDERTAKING.“

nuts pointed in the right direction. That’s all history now. The wheel nut solution from Nord­Lock is a perfect system that increases safety.”

“Accidents due to loosening wheel nuts can be tragic and also very negative for a transport company’s public image,” says Stephen Gruber, Sales Engineer at Nord­Lock. “That’s why more and more companies use Nord­Lock to eliminate these kinds of accidents.”

Truck safety is high on the public agenda in Germany, and EDEKA Südbayern has proven that this doesn’t need to be an expensive undertaking: “All our security attributes only account for about 1% of the total truck acquisition cost,” explains Klott.

A technical approach

The loosening of wheel nuts is the main reason for wheel detachment – a problem that occurs mre often than you might think. According to the Department of Transport, in the UK alone there are up to 400 wheel detachments from heavy trucks every year, while the USA’s National Transportation Safety Board claims detached wheels result in around 20 accidents per week.

Available in M16­M24x1.5 and 7/8”­11 BSF, Nord­Lock wheel nuts are suitable for both on and off­road vehicles. The products use the same principle as the Nord­Lock wedge­locking system, using preload instead of friction. Every wheel nut comes permanently attached to a pair of Nord­Lock washers. The washers have cam faces on one side and serrations on the other.

“When the wheel nut is tightened, the serrations on the outer faces of the washers grip into both the fastener and the mating surface of the wheel rims, thus creating a tight fit,” says Gruber. “Each rotation of the nut leads to an immediate increase in preload, making self­loosening impossible.”

For all vehicles, it’s important to be able to loosen the wheel nuts quickly and easily, for example in the case of tyre changes. He continues, “the wheel nuts can be installed and removed using standard equipment and tools, making the process quick and easy. Nord­Lock wheel nuts are also reusable, depending on conditions of use, and can therefore be reinstalled.”

According to Gruber, the wheel nuts offer 100% reliability –ensuring better road safety for trucks and other vulnerable road users.

www.nord-lock.com

EDEKA Südbayern has a fleet of some 300 trucks

SHOW PREVIEW > FERROVIARIA

ON TRACK FOR INNOVATION

The 11th edition of Expo Ferroviaria will take place from 3­5th October at Fiera Milano Rho in Milan, Italy. The exhibition covers all aspects of rail technology, providing a showcase for manufacturers in the major fields of rolling stock technology, track and infrastructure and signalling and communications.

The show aims to serve as a shop window for suppliers of the many specialised products essential to the efficient and safe operation of the world’s railway and public transport systems, in areas such as vehicle maintenance equipment, fare collection systems, rolling stock leasing, electronics for rail applications and cable technology.

FEATURED PRODUCTS

There will be a huge variety of product categories on display at this year’s show. Companies from across the globe will present their products and services across rolling stock and traction for mainline passenger and freight traffic, vehicles for regional services metros and tram systems, as well as sub­systems and interior fittings. Track materials, construction and maintenance applications will also be shown, alongside innovations in signalling and control, communications technology, traction power supply and electrification equipment and services.

Elsewhere, companies specialising in freight terminal equipment and vehicle maintenance will display their wares, while others will showcase products and services related to cable technology, electronics, IT software and hardware, safety equipment, security systems, training systems and services, and consultancy services.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Within the exhibition space, Expo Ferroviaria will once again feature its On­Track Display element, where sections of track are laid in the hall enabling suppliers of rail­mounted vehicles and track­related equipment to display their products. Alongside this, a section of the hall will be dedicated to the tunnelling sector, creating an opportunity for exhibitors to showcase their technologies and offering a major attraction

Italy’s showcase for railway technology, products and systems returns to Milan in October

”THIS YEAR, THE EXHIBITION IS SET TO BRING TOGETHER AROUND 200 EXHIBITORS FROM 13 COUNTRIES, WITH 21% COMING FROM INTERNATIONAL MARKETS.“

for visiting industry professionals. The area offers an authentic scenario for the presentation of rail­mounted vehicles, railway equipment and on­track display.

There will also be an Aerospace Technology Hub at this year’s event. Organised in partnership with Italy’s National Aerospace Technology Cluster (CTNA), the space will showcase the integration between both industries on scientific, design and technological levels. The hub will provide an area for companies that are adapting aerospace technologies for use in the railway sector. Furthermore, in association with industry leader and exhibition partners, RX Exhibitions is offering attendees the opportunity to visit significant rail facilities in the Milan area.

BUILDING ON SUCCESS

The last edition of Expo Ferroviaria took place in 2021, bringing together some 10,000 industry experts from all corners of the rail industry. Over 7,000 visitors attended the show over the three days.

This year, the exhibition is set to bring together around 200 exhibitors from 13 countries, with 21% coming from international markets. Over a third of exhibitors are showcasing their products and technologies for the first time, which the organisers say underlines the importance of the event for the exchange of knowledge and discussions on trends, innovations and opportunities within the sector.

Alongside the exhibition space, an extensive programme of exhibitor presentations and conferences will take place, organised in collaboration with the show’s partners. The confirmed sessions will cover topics such as tourist and luxury trains, the implementation of the ERTMS Plan in the Italian railway network, technological frameworks, mobility of the future, and tackling environmental challenges.

The show will take place in Hall 9 of the Fiera Rho Milano between 3­5 October, 2023.

www.expoferroviaria.com

Avon Stainless Fasteners is a specialist supplier of industrial fasteners in stainless steel and many other corrosion-resistant materials including brass, bronze, aluminium, titanium and nylon.

Avon is not just a standard industrial fastener supplier, we can offer a complete service – fastener sourcing, product design & specification and technical advice. Avon has gained a reputation for its expertise in being able to source semi-standards and non-preferred items along with specials to drawings or sketch. How can we help you?

BRINGING INDUSTRY TOGETHER

The fastener industry will once again return to Las Vegas for this year’s International Fastener Expo

Each year, thousands of attendees from over 30 countries gather in the Mandalay Bay Convention Centre in Las Vegas, Nevada, for the International Fastener Expo (IFE). This year will be no different, as the established show returns to bring together industry professionals from across the fastener, machinery and tooling, and industrial related product sectors.

The show is the largest B2B fastener exhibition in North America, and continues to provide a meeting place for attendees and suppliers to network, build new relationships and do business. This year, the exhibition will take place between 9­11th October.

The Session Stage will host keynotes and presentations on important industry topics

”THE SHOW WILL BRING TOGETHER PROFESSIONALS FROM ACROSS THE FASTENER, TOOL, MACHINERY AND RELATED INDUSTRIES.“

‘OUTSTANDING’ ATTENDANCE

The last edition of IFE in October 2022 provided a host of new features as it attempted to rebound from the effects of the Covid19 pandemic. According to the organisers, the show saw ‘outstanding’ attendance, gathering more than 3,500 attendees from 36 countries across the world for the three­day event. Meanwhile, the expo floor featured a total of 450 exhibitors including 30 new additions that made their debut during the event. New for last year, the event app IFE Match helped to bring attendees and exhibitors together in a new ‘smart’ way. Over 350 meetings were arranged using the app, allowing participants to connect with peers, discover new business opportunities, and explore educational opportunities during the show.

CONNECTING THE INDUSTRY

IFE aims to cater for the entire fastener and related industry supply chain, and is attended by importers, distributors, independent sales reps and engineers from all corners of the sector. Attendees can discover the latest products and solutions on the market, while building new relationships and reconnecting with their peers.

Attendees also have the opportunity to learn about trends and the newest technologies being used in the industry from experts and industry leaders, while also meeting with current and new suppliers. The top fastener industries that attending companies serve include: industrial, construction, automotive, assembly and production, and truck and bus.

Attendees will once again tee off their time at IFE with the popular golf tournament at the Bali Hai Golf Club on 9th October. The tournament provides a relaxed environment for visitors and exhibitors to connect with new and familiar faces and engage in friendly competition. IFE will also partner with the

Fastener Training Institute to provide a full­day class on the topic “Fastener Fundamentals – The Nuts and Bolts for Fastener Professionals,” led by FTI instructor and fastener expert, Carmen Vertullo. A welcome reception will take place on the evening of the first day at Mandalay Bay’s Daylight Pool. Last year’s event saw more than a thousand industry leaders gather together.

The exhibition opens the following day, where over 650 exhibitors from around the world will showcase their products, technologies and solutions to attendees walking the expo floor. The exhibition will take place in Halls E and F of the Mandalay Bay. Alongside the expo space, this year’s show will feature even more educational opportunities for attendees than ever before. Visitors will have access to keynote speeches, session stage presentations, and a new fireside chat format. Topics on the agenda include risk management, technology and digitalisation, succession planning, fastener finishings, and more. The educational sessions will be held across the two days on the expo floor Session Stage and IFE Lounge.

Another important feature of the show will return again this year: the announcement of the 2023 Hall of Fame and Young Fastener Professionals. Reviewed and selected by the Fastener Industry Coalition, the inductees will be honoured and recognised for their significant contributions to the fastener industry at IFE 2023’s Award Ceremony, which will take place between 3­4pm on the final day of the show on the Session Stage.

Visitors and exhibitors alike will be able to make the most of their time at the show with the IFE Match app, allowing them to plan their itinerary, review educational sessions, and network with peers and businesses from their mobile devices.

www.fastenershows.com

IFE provides a range of social and networking events for visitors alongside the main exhibition

ENGINEERING IS FOR EVERYONE

Encouraging more women to be involved in engineering and other STEM practices is not a new trend but one that continues to gain momentum. Higher participation is an issue that can’t be addressed in isolation, Rachel King talks to a number of women from across the engineering spectrum about how individuals, educational institutions and businesses can continue the progress being made.

Working in engineering, be it in a traditional setting or related field has long been a male­dominated profession but there has been a conscious effort by many to increase the number of women studying the fundamentals of the field – maths and science, but then also encouraging women to pursue careers in the industry through various pathways.

According to the Office of National Statistics, there were just under 5.8 million people employed in engineering in the UK as of March 2020 but of those people, only 16.5% or 936,000 were women. These figures had gradually increased over the previous decade from 562,000 women in 2010 but showed that women continued to be underrepresented in the engineering workforce, especially considering women form 47.7% of the overall workforce across all sectors.

Education is seen as the first step to increased participation by women in the industry and educational institutions and workplaces are taking measures to encourage involvement. New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE) is on a mission to diversify the engineering industry not only by

providing graduates that are work ready but by actively recruiting and supporting women in engineering to help address the gender imbalance that has long been prevalent in the industry.

Students at NMITE marked International Women in Engineering Day (June 23) and shared their views on women in engineering. Elise Cummings is one of NMITE’s founding ‘Pioneer Cohort’ who will become the first NMITE Engineers when they graduate in 2024. She is studying MEng Integrated Engineering and is Vice President of the NMITE Women in STEM Society, its mission is to support, empower and facilitate women to succeed and advance in STEM fields. When discussing engineering, Cummings says, “For me, the most exciting thing about being an engineer is the problem solving and being able to see how your work improves the lives of others, making it feel like you can make a difference in the world.”

The career options for students continue to expand, with new technologies and innovations bringing about all sorts of prospects, something Habiba Rashid is excited about. Also studying MEng Integrated Engineering at NMITE and President of the NMITE Women in STEM Society, she says, “My

NMITE’s students mark International Women in Engineering Day

WOMEN IN ENGINEERING

hopes and ambitions for the future are to work in a wide range of industries such as automotive, construction and space. I would like to take the role of someone who is making a great impact on a large scale. NMITE is very proactive in encouraging female students in engaging and participating at various events and activities that boost their portfolio.”

Maisie Smithson is another trailblazer as she embarks on a T level course at Crawley College. “For me at 18 I have not encountered any barriers. I am the only girl on my course, but I’ve been accepted for my skills, knowledge and willingness to learn. I’ve been able to fully contribute, leading project work as well as being part of the team tackling assignments set by our tutor. I’ve also been welcomed into the world of work, during my current summer placement at Insulated Tools Ltd,” she adds.

A common theme among those with a career in engineering was the innate interest in building and construction or making things from a young age. “I’ve always enjoyed making and building things. I find working on projects hands on very fulfilling,”

Smithson explains. This was echoed by Amy Green, a HSE Specialist with Atlas Copco. “The decision to go into construction and engineering was made during my school years when I realised my strengths were to be hands­on and practical. I knew I wasn’t built to carry out the academic life, so my focus became on finding a future where I would fit in and thrive,” she says. “I started an apprenticeship in a joinery shop and once I had joined the firm, I was then informed I had become the first female in 25 years to be part of the ‘woodworking crew’.”

But while an interest in the area always helps, barriers to entry still exist, although they are improving. “When it comes to women breaking into the construction and engineering sector, it comes with various challenges but every individual going into the industry will have their strengths and weaknesses irrelevant if they are male or female,” says Green. “In my own experience I have had with starting out in the engineering and construction sector I felt I had to work harder just to prove my capabilities to others around me, even though I held the same qualification and skill set as my male colleagues. I learnt very early on that I needed to hold my ground and stand up for what I believed in, in order to be seen and heard as an equal. After 17 years in the industry, I can see an improvement every single year and the challenges are getting slightly easier for women to feel equal. One of the biggest challenges still to be overcome is equal pay between men and women within the industry.”

Ultimately while it may be up to individuals to be the first to embark on a course, or to land a new position, businesses are looking at ways to diversify their staff too. “At Atlas Copco Group we believe that diversity and inclusion are business critical drivers for our long­term success. With our Group goal of 30% women by 2030, we are addressing our biggest gap in the area of diversity and inclusion, our gender balance and a workplace that offers equal opportunities and a good balance of role models. We actively promote and showcase some of our amazing ladies on national awareness days, via social media and in our recruitment videos. We attend Female STEM events and Inspiring Girls events at local schools. We have this year introduced a mentoring scheme for female university students as well as Diversity & Inclusion workshops. We tie this altogether with lunch and learn sessions and online training,” adds Green. “The improvements are getting better each year regarding the barriers for women in the industry. Equal opportunities, empowerment and acknowledgment are all positive attributes to help break down the barriers. Although there are occasions within the industry where people still see gender rather than skill set.”

Whatever barriers still exist, ultimately mindsets and workplaces are changing, and given engineering is often at the forefront of many breakthroughs, there is no reason why the sector can’t lead the way for equality too. Professor Beverley Gibbs, Chief Academic Officer at NMITE, says, “Engineering is about making the world a better and ultimately safer place.” And that means it needs to be for everyone.

”EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES, EMPOWERMENT AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT ARE ALL POSITIVE ATTRIBUTES TO HELP BREAK DOWN THE BARRIERS.“

”THE DECISION TO GO INTO CONSTRUCTION AND ENGINEERING WAS MADE DURING MY SCHOOL YEARS WHEN I REALISED MY STRENGTHS WERE TO BE HANDS-ON AND PRACTICAL.“

Amy Green, Atlas Copco

WOMEN IN ENGINEERING

5 MINUTES WITH

DR.-ING. BOGLÁRKA BOKOR

Dr.-Ing. Bokor is the Senior Expert, Applied Research and Committee Work at fischer. She talks to Torque Direct about her career and the engineering sector.

Why did you decide to go into Engineering?

Technology always fascinated me. Bridges, buildings, cars, airplanes, they were all fascinating for me and still are. So, getting into engineering came very natural to me. Being a solution­oriented person, I found that engineering aligns perfectly with my mindset since it constantly requires finding and implementing new solutions, especially in the ever­evolving world of technology. Moreover, I have a genuine love for planning and research and wanted to be involved in a field where something tangible is created in the end.

What are your thoughts on the challenges to women breaking into the engineering sector?

In general, I believe that our performance and the kind of person we are, should matter, irrespective of gender. If we believe we are good for a certain role, then we should go for it and do our best. As a woman, you may bring a unique approach to certain situations or problems, which can prove valuable. However, you might face additional challenges and be required to prove your knowledge and capabilities maybe more often if you are a woman. Do not be discouraged by any negative feedback you receive but have confidence in yourself, and your efforts will be acknowledged and rewarded. I am happy to see that the number of women going for engineering and later joining the industry is increasing and they are making a mark, even though the industry seems to remain predominantly male. I strongly believe that embracing gender and cultural diversities in any profession, including engineering, can enrich teams' work, as it allows for the utilisation of unique perspectives and expertise from team members, colleagues, and advisors, resulting in innovative solutions and exceptional outcomes.

What education or training did you undertake for your role?

Construction has always interested and inspired me, leading me to pursue a path towards becoming a structural engineer. During high school I joined advanced level math and physics classes. I applied to the TU Budapest, Hungary to pursue civil engineering, where I received my B.Sc. degree. Following that, I began my career as a test and research engineer in the field of fastening technology at the University of Stuttgart, Germany. Simultaneously, I did my M.Sc. studies at TU Dresden, Germany. Later, I had the fantastic opportunity to work on an exciting research project, which I pursued with full commitment and enthusiasm, leading me to complete my PhD.

What does your role entail?

In my current position as a senior expert in fastening technology in Applied Research and Committee Work at fischer, my primary focus is bridging the gap between research and industry by

adapting and implementing research findings into practical applications. Additionally, I am actively involved in multiple research projects within our team and provide consulting support to colleagues working on interesting projects worldwide. One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is the constant variation; no two days are alike, and it continuously challenges me to work on new things and find solutions for problems. This role also demands endurance, as the journey from research to industry requires significant time, effort, and lots of communication.

I believe that to contribute to a better and more sustainable future in the construction industry, we must accelerate our ability to find solutions and develop innovative approaches for various challenges and problems.

What do you think employers can do to get more women involved in the sector?

The question at hand revolves around whether there are female applicants showing interest in specific jobs or if there is a lack of female professionals in the construction industry overall. Addressing the latter case may not be solely within the employers' control, as it relates to education and other factors. Also recognising and eliminating unconscious biases has to start early on. In my opinion, when a job position is open to applicants of any gender, it should be presumed that those who apply possess the self­awareness and capability to effectively perform the job, while having thoughtfully considered all relevant aspects related to their age group and gender by themselves. I am happy to see that many companies have adopted remote work as a new standard because I think that this approach can help significantly to manage a better work and family life for many individuals worldwide. By offering jobs that are flexible in terms of location and time, employers also have more opportunities to attract competent professionals worldwide, including female civil engineers. However, it is essential to acknowledge that remote work may not be feasible for every position, and it demands discipline and dedication from the employees who opt for it.

www.fischer.de

- Plastic fixings & fasteners

- Coatings & platings

• Event preview: Subcon / Automechanika

• Editorial copy: Thursday 1st May

• Ad copy: Thursday 8th May

• Published: Thursday 16th May ISSUE

• In-depth: Lightweighting

• Technical Insight: Smart tools

• Product Innovations:

- Rivets & riveting technology

- Electronic components

• Event preview: Advanced Engineering / EUROBLECH

• Editorial copy: Thursday 26th September

• Ad copy: Thursday 3rd October

• Published: Thursday 10th October

SUBMIT AN ARTICLE OR IDEA FOR A FUTURE ISSUE OF TORQUE-DIRECT

– CONTACT THE EDITORIAL TEAM:

Hayley Everett > Hayley@torque-direct.com

Rachel King > Rachel@torque-direct.com

Jonathon Harker > Jonathon@torque-direct.com

TO ADVERTISE IN A FUTURE ISSUE OF TORQUE-DIRECT MAGAZINE – CONTACT THE SALES TEAM:

SELECTING FOR STEEL

all you need to know when choosing the correct fasteners for steel construction applications

to be alloy steel in order to achieve the same strength. However unfortunately, some manufacturers do not realise this or they choose to ignore this fact in order to keep their profit or be more competitive in the market, as carbon steel prices are cheaper than alloy steel prices. This can have disastrous results, as fasteners are of critical importance to steel constructions. Choosing the wrong fasteners or material can lead to irreversible tragedies, such as the Morandi Bridge accident in Italy where 43 people died.

The differences of steels in a 8.8 grade bolt production for different diameters are shown in the below table. The values were taken from TD EN 10083­1 & TS EN 10083­3 standards.

STEEL GRADES ACCORDING TO DIAMETER FOR 8.8 GRADE BOLTS & STUD BOLTS

Fasteners can be manufactured in various strengths and by various steel raw materials whose grades are different, according to application or expected tightening force. As a result, there are many points at which mistakes can be made in selecting the right materials for fasteners.

In brief, bolts are manufactured in grades 4.6 – 5.8 – 6.8 – 8.8 – 10.9 and 12.9 in accordance with DIN 267 or ISO 898­1 norms. Marking bolt grades and manufacturer name or brand on the top of bolts is obligatory in accordance with these standards.

To explain bolt grades with an example; for a 8.8 grade bolt, the first 8 refers to 10% of bolt tensile strength, meaning that the bolt has 80 kg/mm2 tensile strength. Meanwhile, of two numbers “8.8” refers to the bolt’s yield strength, meaning that the bolt has 64 kg/mm2 yield strength.

The same steels can not be used in the manufacturing of bolts whose strength grades are the same, but diameters are different. When the diameter increases, used steel content has

Bolts or studs which are made using these steels have to be hardened in a suitably­designed heat treatment furnace which has shielding gas. Also, manufacturers must be sure that the bolts or stud bolts match with the specified nuts correctly. Nuts that will be used with bolts or stud bolts together must have the same steel grade. Lower grade nuts should never be used together with higher grade bolts or stud bolts.

The most important thing to note is that all of these factors can be controlled with product certificates. Therefore, test and analysis certificates issued by an accredited laboratory for each fastener order should be requested.

The Osmangazi Bridge Piers’ anchors: 10m length, M110 diameter, 10.9 grade, 790kg each

”NUTS THAT WILL BE USED WITH BOLTS OR STUD BOLTS TOGETHER MUST HAVE THE SAME STEEL GRADE. LOWER GRADE NUTS SHOULD NEVER BE USED TOGETHER WITH HIGHER GRADE BOLTS OR STUD BOLTS.“

Berdan Civata’s Arif Aksoy discusses

1915 Çanakkale Bridge Piers’ Anchors: 10m length, M85 diameter, 10.9 grade, 550 Kg each

APPLYING EXPERTISE TO PROJECTS

Originally established in Tarsus, Turkey, in 1979, with a 150m2 workshop area, Berdan Civata has since expanded its fastener manufacturing capabilities with a fully integrated factory spanning 49,000m2. The integrated factory has enabled the company to bring its heat treatment, surface treatment and laboratory services in­house to provide full fastener manufacturing capabilities from raw material to final goods dispatch. As a result, the company is in an ideal position to guide its clients towards the correct material selection, while also offering advanced engineering services such as hot and cold forg­

ing, threading, machining, heat treatment and surface treatment, alongside its research and development centre and TS ISO EN/IEC accredited test laboratory.

Berdan Civata manufactures fasteners from M16 to M200 according to the international standards DIN, ISO, EN, BS, ASTM, and customised technical drawings. The company’s test laboratory performs 20 different tests and analyses, and is equipped with the firm’s patented 750 capacity tensile strength device, which can apply full body tensile tests up to M100 diameter and 30,000 NM capacity.

As such, these capabilities have allowed Berdan Civata to land several high profile contracts, such as the Kuwait International Airport project, Mecca­Haramain High Speed Railway project, Tanzania Dar Es Salaam Morogoro Railway project, King Abdulaziz International Airport project, Gebze­Orhangazi Motorway project, Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant East Port project, and many more. Back in 2015, the company supplied 362 10.9 grade anchor sets of 10m in length and M110 diameter for Europe’s second longest suspended bridge, the Osmangazi Bridge. Berdan Civata was one of just three companies that received a sufficiency from Japanese infrastructure giant IHI for the project, and was the only company in Europe able to meet the project’s specifications. Later, in 2021, the firm supplied 762 10.9 grade anchor sets of 10m length and M85 diameter for the world’s longest suspended bridge, the Canakkale Bridge. Going forwards, the company is looking to become a solution partner in many more ‘mega projects’ with its fully integrated factory.

www.berdancivata.com

”BERDAN CIVATA MANUFACTURES FASTENERS FROM M16 TO M200 ACCORDING TO INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS.”

M125 Eyebolt for tightening of steel ropes weighing 16,500 tonnes each, for the 1915 Çanakkale Bridge

1915 Çanakkale Bridge: the world’s longest suspended bridge

The Osmangazi Bridge Piers

TAIWAN INTERNATIONAL TOOLS & HARDWARE EXPO

The Taiwan International Tools and Hardware Expo (TiTE) will return for its second edition between 4­6th October at the Taichung International Exhibition Centre in Taiwan. The show aims to connect the entire supply chain for the hardware and tools market, engaging both domestic professional buyers and those from overseas to shape the future of the sector.

Advised by Taiwan’s Bureau of Foreign Trade, of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the exhibition is jointly organised by the Taiwan Hand Tool Manufacturers’ Association, Strengthening Investment Services Project Office, NDF, Taiwan Institute of Economic Research, Taiwan Industrial Fasteners Institute and Taiwan Machine Tool and Accessory Builders’ Association, and Lanza International.

The show made its debut in October last year, offering an Industry Innovation Forum, online expo and O2O business matching events alongside the main exhibition. The show was devised with the intention of positioning Taiwan as a leading force in the hand tool market, launching omnichannel marketing campaigns, leveraging overseas partners, and diversifying the buyer base.

TOOLS IN TAIWAN

Taiwan is the third largest exporter of hand tools in the world, and the second largest exporter including OEM value. The country is seen as a valued partner for the global supply chain of tools and hardware due to its stable supply capability. Taiwan’s output value of hand tools was NT$122.5 billion (US$3.97 billion) in 2020, while the output value reached NT$110.39 billion (US$3.5 billion). The country also claims the world’s largest market share in high­end product lines with a total of 2,367 hand tool manufacturers nationwide.

Due to its strong capabilities in hand tools manufacturing and a complete industry supply chain, Taiwan has been able to dominate the global marketplace, even during the recent Covid­19 pandemic. In 2021, the total export value of hardware and hand tools from the country reached US$4.79 billion in 2021, a significant increase of more than 27.4% compared to the previous year. In this period, exports to the United States increased by 26.9%, while exports to the European Union rose by 33.3%.

EVENT FEATURES

Building on the success of last year, this edition of the show will provide an international buyer promotion program aimed at the European and US markets, as well as emerging markets such as East African and the ASEAN. The show will again offer its virtual exhibition hall and interactive business platform for a seamless experience for international visitors, alongside its omnichannel business matchmaking function. Through this, attendees and exhibitors can engage buyers face­to­face from all levels of the supply chain.

Taking place near the Central Taiwan Industrial Cluster in Taichung, the event provides a one­stop­shop for international buyers and procurement specialists to discover new products, technological innovations, potential business partners and go on factory visits. The show covers seven key product categories and exhibition areas, including: Tools and Related Accessories; Fasteners and Fixings; Automotive parts, Repair Tools and Maintenance Equipment; Garden, Outdoor, Agricultural and DIY; Building and Locks; Metal Processing Equipment, Testing Equipment and Industrial Safety; and Industrial Software and Digital Transformation.

Over 200 exhibitors have registered for the 2023 edition, bringing together manufacturers of hand tools, machine tools, screws and fasteners, and the show also has the backing of 20 industry associations.

www.hardwareexpo-taiwan.com

TiTE will return to the Taichung International Exhibition Centre in October

Shaping the future of the hardware and tools manufacturing market in Taiwan’s ‘tools kingdom’