Torque Magazine Issue 55 by stagpublications

fasteners

tools

TECHNICAL WEBSITE AND BROCHURE

distribution

magazine

UNDERPINNED BY TECHNICAL EXPERTISE

OVER 1,300 LINES AVAILABLE

QUALITY • SSERVICE C • PERFORMANCE O

Advanced Fastening and Sealing Technologies

PRE-APPLIED

THERMOSEAL

™

Thermoseal is an ND Industries pre-applied process in which a proprietary hybrid medium strength sealant is applied to fasteners, giving them excellent sealing and threadlocking capabilities. Thermoseal is designed for high temperature, high pressure applications where other thread locking materials fail. In addition, it may also provide a lower coefﬁcient of friction than alternative pre-applied thread lockers to help with ease of installation.

PRE-APPLIED PROCESS FEATURES How It Works Thermoseal is a dual-encapsulated dry ﬁlm adhesive which is inert onpart until engagement with the mating fastener. During installation, shearing forces cause the microsphere capsules to rupture, mixing the two components, initializing the reaction and curing to form a strong chemical bond and effective seal.

High Pressure Seal

Chemical Resistant

Thermoseal processed fasteners exhibit exceptional sealing properties and the ability to withstand pressures in excess of 5800 psi (40MPa) under challenging conditions. Thermoseal can replace the need for PTFE tape due to its better reproducibility and installation speed.

Upon fastener installation Thermoseal cures to a cross-linked molecular structure; making it one of the most resistant types of adhesives. Oil, gasoline, salt spray, acids, solvents, and water have virtually no effect on parts when introduced after ﬁnal cure.

Surface Insensitive

Long Shelf Life

Thermoseal processing is compatible with most fastener sizes, conﬁgurations, materials and ﬁnishes. The use of an acrylic based microsphere adhesive ensures that a strong reliable lock and seal is formed.

Thermoseal processed fasteners have an on-part life of 1 year and will remain inert until a cure is activated by engagement with a mating thread.

Email: info@ndindustries.com www.ndindustries.com

CERTIFICATIONS & ACCREDITATIONS

Surpasses DIN & IFI Thermoseal processed fasteners meet or exceed all torque requirements of DIN 267-27, IFI 125, IFI 525, as well as automotive adhesive coated fastener performance speciﬁcations.

Product Specifications Break Away Torque: >20 Nm Prevailing Torque: <2.5 Nm Lubricity: 0.19 Temp Range: -40°C to 220°C

AS9100:2009, Rev. C • QPL-18240F • QSLM • ITAR • ISO-9001:2008 • ISO/IEC 17025:2005 CE Directive 2006/42/EC • ISO-14121 • ISO-12110-1/12110-2 • IEC-EN 60204-1

WE ALWAYS THINK IN STAINLESS STEEL

Competence in Stainless Steel Visit our shop: shop.schaefer-peters.com

MORE THAN 37,000 STAINLESS STEEL PRODUCTS DIRECTLY FROM S ST STOCK.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

06 NEWS 12 BUSINESS BAROMETER > THE WIND SECTOR’S

KEEP YOUR CUSTOMERS CLOSE...

RECORD-BREAKING YEAR 17 WOMEN IN FASTENERS > Publisher Jerry Ramsdale jerry@torque-expo.com Editor Jonathon Harker jonathon@torque-expo.com Staff Writer Liberty Sheldon libby@torque-expo.com Sales Manager – UK Claire Warman claire@torque-expo.co.uk Sales Manager – International Harry Whyte harry.whyte@torque-expo.com Sales Manager - USA & International Thomas A. Keenan tom@torque-expo.com Circulation Tracy Howell tracy@torque-expo.com Head of Production Luke Wikner luke@torque-expo.com Designers Dan Bennett dan.bennett@torque-expo.com Tina Ries tina@torque-expo.com Victoria Arellano victoria@torque-expo.com

TR FASTENINGS > GLENDA ROBERTS 20 JATON RIVETING PRODUCTS > WE HEAR FIRST-HAND FROM JRP’S TECHNICAL MANAGER REZA JAFARI 24 TOOLS MADE IN GERMANY > FEATURING STAHLWILLE, REISSER, WIHA, ITH & THE CORDLESS SYSTEM ALLIANCE 40 TERRITORY FOCUS > ITALY FEATURING SCS CONCEPT GROUP, MECAVIT, FIXI, BERARDI, BONTEMPI VIBO & RIVIT 42 FOCUS > MACHINES, TOOLING AND EQUIPMENT 52 FOCUS > NUTS, WASHERS & LOCKING SYSTEMS 60 BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION > ETAS AND ACCREDITATIONS 77 APPRENTICE Q&A >

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-expo.com Web: www.torque-expo.com Disclaimer

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

BUFAB

GUEST EDITOR This issue’s Guest editor is

Johannes Heye Marketing & Product Manager Member of the Board pgb-International pgb-europe

To subscribe to Torque Magazine visit: or scan this QR code...

Entire contents copyright © 2021 Stag Publications. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior permission of the publisher.

torque-expo.com

Jonathon Harker Editor jonathon@torque-expo.com

torque-expo.com/subscribe/

MANY OF the companies we talk to pride themselves on their close relationships with customers; on listening to their needs and being flexible. It’s not simply a case of “the customer is always right” however. A supplier may occasionally have to deliver an uncomfortable truth and tell a customer when they aren’t asking for the right thing. That may sound arrogant, but a supplier’s expertise and knowledge can provide benefit and value beyond a simple product. A customer may request a bolt when a rivet would be more effective, for example. Being able to tell a customer that what they want may not be the best thing for the job requires some skill and charm, but it helps when there is already a relationship and level of trust. While customer relationships are naturally a cornerstone for businesses, we’re potentially seeing a few more business-to-business relationships being formed at the moment, that go beyond a standard supplier/customer deal. Instead of the acquisition and consolidation many had expected in these disruptive times, we’ve seen (for example) 18 Spanish fastener businesses join together for the FEX Fastener Excellence Centre and the CAS power tool alliance link up with more yet brands (including Gesipa and ITH Torque Tools). Associations too, appear to be bringing on board more members. Working together for mutual goals in these strange times appear to be proving valuable for the businesses concerned. It’s not just customers that you should keep close.

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

EasyHook. Turn screws into hooks. With the new product innovation from fischer, every hook fixing succeeds in a snap. From now on, simply screw in and tighten with the cordless screwdriver. The attachable hook adapter allows angle, round and eye hooks to be precisely aligned and positioned for every application. Now turn your screw into a hook · www.fischer-international.com

GUEST EDITOR COMMENT JOHANNES HEYE, MARKETING & PRODUCT MANAGER, & MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF PGB-INTERNATIONAL IS GUEST EDITOR OF THIS ISSUE OF TORQUE MAGAZINE

STRIVING FOR CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT... EVEN IN STRANGE TIMES We won’t be telling you something new when we say that current times are crazy. Even more so in the fasteners and fixings business. The building industry is rocketing, while on the other hand uncertainty is around the corner thanks to the extreme raw material prices, logistics issues, challenges in the supply chain and potential antidumping duties. But given all this, our focus has not changed. As pgb, we still aim for continuous improvement in all of our business units. The last years have been tremendously busy with the extension of our HQ with a robot-controlled warehouse, digitisation and process optimisation and of course enlarging our product offer. This continuous improvement and the challenging of ourselves to perform better, is part of every department within pgb. To do this, we track and see where new technologies and resource or time saving solutions can benefit us. Spotting market trends and listening to customers and craftsmen are important to keep improving and launching new products. We make the difference by exploiting our service level for a.o. specialty fasteners by drawing or private label customers. Thanks to our membership and participation in multiple national and international branch associations, we keep monitoring legal and technological evolutions. All construction products have extensive ETA assessments and CE marking. On the technical level, we have dedicated software for engineers and prescribers with our Anchor Calculation Program and as well as software for woodscrew calculation in timber constructions. It is our daily job to provide assistance to customers all over Europe.

Johannes Heye Marketing & Product Manager Member of the Board pgb-International www.pgb-europe.com

torque-expo.com

Besides our strong historical presence in the Benelux countries, we are developing strongly in France. This requires a slightly different approach and adapted product range. Even in globalisation, it remains very important to act locally and also here our flexibility and agility are keystones. During the pandemic we quickly anticipated the need for safety measures for our people in the office and warehouse and also supported working remotely where possible. Thanks to our digital mindset, the shift to online meetings was made quickly and integrated. This will be a good addition in the future to the (very important) physical ones.

// The building industry is rocketing, while on the other hand uncertainty is around the corner... // In our Polish division, we are moving fast and our employees are working with the same strong spirit. In January, a big changeover was implemented, as we switched over to SAP, and now the whole group of pgb in Europe and Asia are on one ERP system. Besides this, in March of this year we started to expand the production hall and warehouse with new production lines and further automation to be one of the reference manufacturers of quality plastic fixings. Fasteners and fixings have been in our DNA for 65 years now, and still we breathe it every day.

TURN TO PAGE 60 FOR MORE ON PGB-EUROPE

Stanztechnik

www.puehl.de

Products With a high demand of flexibility, reliability and quality, the mid-sized and in fourth generation family-owned and managed company PÜHL, based in Plettenberg (GER), manufactures standard, ISO-, DIN- and special stamping parts for mechanical connections.

STANDARD PARTS Service State-of-the-art manufacturing technology with 20 stamping machines and pressing forces up to 1,000 tons and a substantial warehouse of raw materials and finished products allow a fast production and delivery to competitive conditions.

SPECIAL PARTS Reliability Wholesalers and end users in the sectors of wind energy, steel construction, traffic engineering, railway engineering, agricultural machines and the automotive supplier industry, value the quality and the competitive conditions of the products.

PARTS ACCORDING DRAWING

NEWS News from the distribution industry… www.torque-expo.com

ANTI-DUMPING AND COST PRESSURES LOOM DESPITE STRONG FASTENER MARKET

hile indications of a strong fastener sector continue into mid‐2021, the impending decision of the anti‐dumping investiga‐ tion of fasteners from China, together with cost pressures from freight, raw materials and shortages, continue to heap uncertainty over the market. A highly promising start to 2021 has seen many big fastener market players raise their expectations of 2021. Following sales growth in 2020, this year has got off to a promising start for Würth Group, with sales up 10.3% in Q1 y‐on‐y. Bossard Group said it expects sales to increase more than 20% in the ﬁrst half of 2021. US DIY giant Home Depot saw sales up by $9.2 billion in Q1, while SFS Group lay down higher expec‐ tations for 2021 (CHF 1.9 billion, EBIT margin of 15%).

// The global market for fasteners is upside down. //

Nevertheless, headwinds continue to batter the sector. Container prices and shipping costs have risen by at least three times, meanwhile China’s ports are (at time of writing) being severely disrupted by outbreaks of the Covid‐19 Delta variant. Further freight complications caused by changes to international trade deals, include Brexit, have also increased complexity for some exporters and importers. Raw material shortages and increased demand thanks to lockdowns have heaped further disruption on the global supply chain, leading the Euro‐ pean Fastener Distributor Association (EFDA) to state “the global market for fasteners is upside down”. In June, EFDA issued a stark warning to the European Commission as it weighs up whether to impose anti‐ dumping duties on fasteners from China. “With anti‐dumping duties on Chinese fasteners, the supply of screws and other fasteners to the European economy could no longer be ensured,” said EFDA President Dr. Volker Lederer. “High capacity utilisation, raw material shortages and shipping problems have already thrown international supply chains into unprecedented chaos, making it impossible for European fastener distributors to supply Euro‐ pean industry, trade and crafts with fasteners in time. Under these excep‐ tional circumstances, the European Union would create the ‘perfect storm’ if it were to impose additional duties on the import of iron and steel fasteners from the People’s Republic of China.” With anti‐dumping related stories continuing to rate highly on www.torqueexpo.com, sector anxiety about the topic is clearly at a high.

Stainless steel fasteners. ers.. EdelstahlVerbindungselemente. Standard and non-standard items Norm- und Standardteile DIN, ISO, EN and others / und andere Special parts and special materials Sonderteile / Sonderwerkstoffe

NEW NEU

rer-shop.co

| lede Shop 2020 advice availability / ﬁle upload quickorder pdf pages d ke lin back

Mail Bestands-e tei-Upload tellung / Da es lb el hn Sc n te talogsei verlinkte Ka

ZINC ALLOY

FURNITURE

INSERTS

CONNECTORS

Headed Hex-Drive Type D

Zinc Plated Flathead Bolts

Unheaded Hex-Drive Type E

Flathead Connector Caps (Closed)

BRASS THREADED

STEEL

INSERTS

Multi Unheaded

Headed Hex-Drive

Unheaded Screw-in

Unheaded Hex-Drive Type E

More products available, visit www.theinsertcompany.com Tel: +44 (0)121 4397329

Fax: +44 (0)121 4397346

Email: sales@theinsertcompany.com Unit 4, Alma Industrial Estate, Stafford Road, Wednesbury, WS10 8SX, United Kingdom

NEWS News from the distribution industry

www.torque-expo.com

PEOPLE NEWS

Anna Galoni is the new Thordon Bearings CEO

hordon Bearings Inc, a Thomson‐Gordon Group Company, has announced Anna Galoni as its new CEO. Prior to her appointment in April, Galoni held a number of senior roles in various departments including Human Resources Director, New Product Development Director and, subsequently, Chair, Thordon Bearings – a position she continues to hold. Her appointment follows the retirement of Terry McGowan, who stepped down after 14

Change at the top for TTS and Festool USA

estool USA and parent company TTS Tooltechnic Systems has announced key personnel moves. Matt Howard (Left) has been promoted to CEO of Tooltechnic Systems North America and its subsidiaries including SawStop, Festool USA, and Festool Canada. Howard will also continue to serve as CEO for SawStop. Clint Chapman (Right), who has served as VP of Marketing for Festool USA since October 2020, was promoted to CEO of Festool USA effective 1 May 2021.

years in the role. George (Sandy) A. Thomson, Thomson‐ Gordon Group Innovator and Thordon Bear‐ ings’ Founder, said: “I am delighted to announce the appointment of my step‐ daughter Anna as our new CEO. After three generations of family ownership, the Thomson‐Gordon Group and Thordon Bear‐ ings is now looking to a fourth‐generation family member to safely navigate the com‐ pany through the challenges of the future.”

THE SEARCH IS ON FOR THE FASTENER & TOOL INDUSTRY’S RISING STARS

orque Magazine is compiling names for a special new feature for younger up‐and‐coming executives in the fastener and tool industries. Whether they work in the warehouse, or are part of the sales force, part of the technical team or a different part of the busi‐ ness, Torque Rising Stars will highlight fresh‐faced talent in the fastener and tool industries, across wholesalers, distributor, manufacturers, service providers and more. You can nominate a colleague by simply sending us a high res photo of the candidate, their job title and role, plus a short expla‐ nation of why they have been put forward. Nominees must be under 40 years of age. Send your nomina‐ tions to jonathon@torque-expo.com by 20 August 2021. #torquerisingstars

Stainless steel fasteners. standard and non-standard items DIN, ISO, Lederer and Maritim individual labelling and packaging own accredited testing lab

www.love-fasteners.com Lederer GmbH | Katzbachstraße 4 | 58256 Ennepetal, Germany +49 (0)2333/8309-0 | info@lederer-online.com

www.nord-lock.com

ORIGINAL WASHER

X-SERIES

THE NORD-LOCK STEEL WASHERS Nord-Lock offers products in a wide range of sizes, shapes and materials, developed to suit even the toughest environments. With a promise of 1,000 hours corrosion resistance on all steel washers it makes the Nord-Lock washer the best on the market.

STEEL CONSTRUCTION

BUSINESS BAROMETER

WIND POWER BEATS FORECAST WITH RECORD YEAR Baulking expectations that Covid would slow wind energy growth, the sector (like construction and DIY) has boomed, providing positive news for fastener, tool and fixing brands and distributors that provide for wind turbines...

020 will be best remembered for Covid‐ 19, a pandemic that has disrupted and continues to disrupt the world. However, 2020 will also go down in the history books for something far more positive – as the year that wind power took a record‐breaking leap forward worldwide. The world set a new record in wind power installations in 2020, adding an unprece‐ dented 93 gigawatts of new wind turbines in the pandemic‐beset year – 50% more than in 2019. New installation records were recorded in China, the USA and in Russia despite expec‐ tations that the disruptive element of Covid‐ 19 and lockdowns would stifle growth in the wind sector. The figures, put together by the World Wind Energy Association (WWEA) revealed that world capacity reached a total of 744 Gigawatts – sufficient to generate 7% of the world’s electricity demand.

TOP INSTALLED WIND POWER CAPACITY IN 2020 1. China 2. USA 3. Germany 4. India 5. Spain 6. UK 7. Brazil 8. France 9. Canada 10. Italy

Shipment status at a glance www.lederer-tracking.com Activate shipping notiﬁcation and tracking now!

One eMail.

One number.

torque-expo.com

www.lederer-online.com | www.lederer-shop.com

One click to the goods. s n-standard item standard and no r and Maritim DIN, ISO, Ledere g ng and packagin individual labelli testing lab own accredited

BUSINESS BAROMETER

Stefan Gsänger, WWEA Secretary General, said earlier this year: “We are very encouraged by the strong growth in the wind sector in 2020. Given that many governments become more committed to greenhouse gas‐free renewable energy sources, we are very confident that such growth will also happen in the future and becomes even stronger. Accordingly and subject to increased efforts, the possibility exists that the world gets on track to meet the goals of the Paris agreement and limit global warming to 1,5°C. The key is: Let citizens and communities around the world realise and experience the benefits of wind power.” RENEWED OPTIMISM, GREEN HYDROGEN & DIGITALISATION Those strong numbers have helped an upsurge in positivity in the sector, as evidenced in the WEtix (WINDENERGY trend index) survey organised by Messe Hamburg in cooperation with the HUSUM Wind show. The report found that 70% of respondents believed that the coronavirus pandemic has had no effect on the wind industry, or that it actually affected it in a positive – or even very positive – manner. The share of respondents fearing a negative or very negative impact decreased since its autumn 2020 survey.

The same survey found that the mood in the European wind industry is now more positive than it has ever been (since the survey was founded). Europe’s onshore wind market has been receiving positive marks for both the respec‐ tive current year and the future, while the current outlook on the offshore wind market two years from now has reached a near‐optimum level. Likewise, expectations for the North American wind market are now very positive, according to the respondents. In terms of trends, a significant 70‐plus of respondents saw a ‘middle to very high’ likeliness that the production of green hydrogen will play a key role for wind energy over the next three years. This means that green hydrogen is now given somewhat greater importance than in the previous surveys. Expectations for optimisation potential driven by digitali‐ sation also improved slightly (see below), remaining at a high level for both onshore and offshore wind energy. Within this category, expectations in the offshore segment are more opti‐ mistic, leaving the onshore segment further behind. With promises from politicians (not least US President Joe Biden) to scale up wind power capacity, the supply chain for the wind energy market is forecast a strong growth period.

// Let citizens and communities around the world realise and experience the benefits of wind power. //

FOCUS ON COSTS Driving down costs remains an important factor for the wind sector. With that in mind, Freudenberg Sealing Technologies has developed an advanced test procedure and simulation methodology that, in combination with the company’s Ventoguard range of elastomer materials, improve the performance and longevity of components in offshore wind turbines, so says the company. Material simulation helps determine optimal materials and designs for wind energy applications by precisely analysing how the materials will behave over the lifetime of a turbine. The process was recently used to identify the best materials and designs available to protect turbine foundations from moisture and wear.

www.fst.com

torque-expo.com

STRONG FOR GENERATIONS

TIMBER CONSTRUCTION SCREWS

UP TO

40% 20%

FASTER SCREWING TIME compared to old tip of Klimas Wkręt-met screws

LESS SCREWING RESISTANCE compared to old tip of Klimas Wkręt-met screws

DOUBLE THREAD

IMPROVE THE SPEED OF FASTENER PENETRATION REMARKABLY

HIGH PERFORMANCE WKLC

CERTIFIED PRODUCTS WKSS

WKCS / KMWHT

WKFC

WKFS

WKCP

WKPC

PARAMETERS

more at: www.klimas.com | contact us: export@wkret-met.com

POLISH PRODUCER OF TIMBER CONSTRUCTION SCREWS

RIVETS, BOLTS, RIVET NUTS, SETTING TOOLS & METAL SCREWS

METAL ASSEMBLING SOLUTIONS 01785 246539

+33 320 329 818

+48 12 357 15 22

+39 051 011 3437

RIVET NUTS Using THE FORCE

RIV938

Hydro-pneumatic riveting tool for Rivsert

RIVIT Srl ITALIA HEADQUARTERS Bologna / ITALY - rivit@rivit.it / rivit.it RIVIT INDIA Pvt Ltd SUBSIDIARY Chennai / INDIA - rivitindia@rivit.in / rivit.in RIVIT MAROC Sarl Au SUBSIDIARY Temara / MAROC - rivit@rivit.ma / rivit.it

and Rivbolt

Watch the video!

Apply

INTERVIEW WOMEN IN FASTENERS

// Seven of our locations have female General Managers who have progressed through the company from differing disciplines including Quality, Project Management, Finance and Sales. //

GLENDA ROBERTS

TR FASTENINGS

Glenda Roberts, Global Projects & Marketing Director at TR Fastenings, talks staying connected through hybrid working practices, company plans for expansion and her love for the industry with Torque Magazine…

How did you get into the industry? By default, if I am honest! I was Regional Sales Manager with several American owned companies selling fast moving consumables e.g. food and beverage products to the HQs of supermarkets and pharmacies. This was in the 1980s before computerisation, and stock management and replenishment planning to ensure that the product was in the right place, in volume and on time was a very manual process. I could see that with new technologies emerging the need for large sales forces would become a thing of the past. I put my CV out with agencies and the rest as they say is history and that is how I joined a fastener distribution company.

torque-expo.com

INTERVIEW WOMEN IN FASTENERS

Can you share some of your career highlights and milestones so far? I joined TR as Sales Director for one of the manufacturing facil‐ ities and progressed to Sales Director for the UK and Ireland. Over time as TR developed sites around the world, I became the Group Sales and Marketing Director and formed a Global Strategic Team to manage major OEMs and their subcontrac‐ tors. This proved to be a successful strategy and I joined the Trifast plc Main Board in 2011. Currently my role is on the Operational Executive Board and I have responsibility for Global Projects and Marketing. What are the biggest changes that you have seen in the Industry since you started? Without doubt it is the modern workplace that we have today with all of the tools that we have at our fingertips. We have 32 sites in 16 countries and as a global company connectivity is key. This was never more evident than during this Pandemic where we were able to communicate with our workforce, customers, and suppliers through video conferencing tools such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom. Having data and statistics instantly, as well as search engines to assist with research and varying information, has transformed the way we all work. Adopting “hybrid” working practices encompassing the ability in certain roles to work from anywhere and still be effective, has also changed the perspective that we need to be in an office to be productive. That could not have happened even five years ago. Other changes in my 31 years with TR is that we have a far more balanced gender workforce as this industry had been notoriously male dominated. Seven of our locations have female General Managers who have progressed through the company from differing disciplines including Quality, Project Management, Finance and Sales. What do you think needs to be done to encourage more women to get involved in the industry? I don’t believe that we need to do anything. The world will always need fasteners, so it has longevity and our teams inter‐ act globally, so it is an exciting company to be in. I have trav‐ elled on company business to four continents, and so have a number of colleagues which gives you many interesting expe‐ riences that people rarely get in their usual job roles. It is a fascinating industry as our fastenings go into an amazing range of products from domestic appliances to 5G infrastructures to electric vehicles. We are members of WIFI who promote roles for women in the Industry. I have loved being in this Industry. How is the company finding the coronavirus period apart from the economic consequences? As the Pandemic moved around the world, we saw the impact that it had quite quickly in our Asia operations. As the virus moved into Europe, the UK and then North America we saw the scale of the reduced requirements from the OEMs. So yes, we were impacted, and we felt the financial pain that everyone else did. We had a strong balance sheet which carried us through, and we saw recovery as soon as August of last year. All of our locations, including the manufacturing sites thank‐ fully remained open as we were classed as an “Essential Supplier” by many of our customers. This included companies in the medical sector where we worked to support them particularly with parts for their ventilator productions. We are seeing that there is pent‐up demand in the marketplace for everything from washing machines, vacuum cleaners, power

torque-expo.com

Despite the pandemic, TR Fastenings have invested in new machinery in Asia, Italy and in the UK

tools and now of course from the burgeoning electric vehicle and battery developments. We are already quite heavily involved and have received some good business awards. The challenge now, which is a good one, is in managing the volume increases that have ramped up in the last five months.

// The world will always need fasteners, so it has longevity and our teams interact globally, so it is an exciting company to be in. // From a people perspective within the company despite remote hybrid working we somehow have been more connected than ever. It has consolidated the team spirit. However, as a company we are conscious that lockdowns and working from home can also bring other stresses. We have been proactively working with anyone that needed help and providing support as for some it has been a lonely existence and they miss the office environment. We all just want to get back to whatever the new normal will look like in the future as soon as possible. What plans does the company have for the future? We have a five‐year plan in place to expand. Despite the Covid situation we have invested in new machinery in Asia, Italy and in the UK to build up our inhouse capability and increase the capacity. We are focused on new products to add to our existing extensive range, some of which are meeting the needs of the latest industry requirements in EV and BEV. We are actively seeking acquisitions of companies with a similar culture to TR to increase our manufacturing portfolio and our production capacity. At this moment in time we are recruiting in a number of our regions to further strengthen the teams, and also to bring in new skills. A good example which helped earlier this year would be where we have recruited specialists in customs processes due to Brexit which helped us through this difficult learning curve. Basically, there is never a dull moment! www.trfastenings.com

WE BREATHE FIXINGS

SMART S - TB7 :

A flexible solution for

mounting in non-cracked concrete surfaces! Thanks to its approval for 2 anchoring depths and its long screw thread, the anchor can be used in a wide variety of applications. In addition to SXVK WKURXJK PRXQWLQJ SUH SRVLWLRQHG LQVWDOODWLRQ DQG VWDQG Rႇ installation is also possible. 7KLV QHZ JHQHUDWLRQ RI WKURXJK EROWV HQDEOHV KLJKHU ORDGV EXW DOVR RႇHUV small edge distance and anchor spacing as well as fast installation. For more information, visit our website at: www.pgb-europe.com

Have you tried us for...

Specia Specialist i lis i t Securit Security ity Insert Bits Bit its In Stock

+44 (0)1686 621 300 sales@hafrenfasteners.com hafrenfasteners.com

Insert Bits

COVER PROFILE JATON RIVETING PRODUCTS

DELIVERING TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE >

QUALITY. SERVICE. PERFORMANCE

It has been over 12 months since Owlett-Jaton brought to market its own riveting brand, Jaton Riveting products (JRP). Having firmly cemented its place within the blind rivet market, the leading wholesale supplier has seen JRP sales increase by as much as 600% since launch. Owlett-Jaton’s Technical Manager, Reza Jafari, shares the brand’s journey so far, talks about lessons learned and explains why a technical focus is so important in the world of riveting…

he speed at which JRP has established itself within the marketplace is astonishing. Having launched during the UK’s first National Covid‐19 lockdown, sales have contin‐ ued to grow month‐on‐month, way beyond our expectations. We are on target to sell more than 200,000 boxes of JRP this year. That is over 70 million pieces sold, to more than 400 (and growing) customers each month. CUSTOMER ORIENTATED When selecting the correct rivet or rivet nut, there is a multi‐ tude of factors to consider. Rivets are technical products, and as a wholesaler, it was paramount that we were able to support our customers with this decision‐making process. The JRP brand was developed based on the successful JCP busi‐ ness model. There is a vast and dedicated technical support struc‐ ture behind JCP, and we decided that that was the right way to go for JRP. Having a technical understanding of the range within our sales and technical teams is imperative, backed up by a technical catalogue and website. We are now able to advise customers in purchasing the correct product for the relevant project.

Jaton Riveting Products (JRP) products are used in a wide range of demanding industries

torque-expo.com

UNDERPINNED BY TECHNICAL EXPERTISE Rivets are quality products that go into critical applications, and we ensure the technical aspects of every rivet we sell meet the highest standards of safety and performance. When we started to discuss launching our own riveting range, we wanted to ensure that our products exceeded market demands in terms of both supply and quality. We audited facto‐ ries in China to ensure the manufacturers could meet our requirements. We outlined the technical specifications for the products we needed manufacturing, often going beyond stan‐ dard rivet requirements. DIN 7337 defines standard requirements for rivets by providing uniform tolerances on key dimensions. Through technical know‐how, we increased these requirements for certain aspects above the standard. MANDREL PROTRUSION As part of DIN 7337, a critical dimension is the protrusion of the mandrel from the head of the rivet. However, the standard only covers this as a minimum distance, meaning that if a rivet

is marginally below that minimum requirement the application could fail. This is due to the setting tool not being able to grab hold of the pin to set the rivet. When sourcing JRP, it was spec‐ ified that all rivets would have an increased minimum require‐ ment for the mandrel length to avoid failures. HEAT TREATMENT Heat treatment is used on rivets and rivet nuts to help create the crimp where the product snaps when installed. If not performed properly, a mandrel could snap in the wrong place, resulting in incorrectly installed rivets. By paying extra consideration to where manufacturers were having products heat‐treated, we are confident that the likelihood of an issue has been greatly reduced. By exclusively sourcing products that exceed standard toler‐ ances which are then subject to rigorous quality checking, we can ensure that only high‐quality products make up the JRP range. FIRST-CLASS TECHNICAL SUPPORT We often receive specific application questions either via our customers or direct from a customers’ end‐user. We were recently able to assist with a customer querying whether the rivets they were using were correct for their application regard‐ ing any possible galvanic corrosion. The specific rivet in question was a 4.8 x 16 dome head JRP peel rivet in aluminium/steel. We were able to advise the customer that based on the combination of materials they were using, we could confirm that there would be no reaction with the aluminium louvre as they are like‐for‐like materials, but there would be a marginal increase of galvanic reaction between the aluminium rivet body and the galvanised steel framework. This reaction will take a very long time (most probably many years) before there could be any kind of issue with the integrity of the joint as a result. Understandably, there are contributory factors that can accelerate the process such as cleaning with

chemicals, acidic rainfall in high volumes, or very close prox‐ imity to a saltwater environment. By providing the customer with the confidence that the rivet was ‘fit for purpose’, they went on to purchase the stock they required. A STRUCTURAL FOCUS When it comes to rivets, the primary factors for selection are the shear and tensile forces needed for the joint. This is espe‐ cially important when selecting a product from the recently expanded structural range, as it is often critical to the integrity of the fastening. Structural fasteners are used in some of the most demanding fastener applications, often where safety is paramount. Used in the manufacture of a variety of components used for cars, motorbikes, vans, lorries, taxis, buses, and trams, structural rivets offer multiple benefits over a standard fastener. They are specifically designed to meet applications where high shear and tensile strengths are required. Quick and easy to install, they provide tamper‐proof longevity. Offering high clamping properties to assist with moisture and pressure type applications, structural rivets provide exceptionally strong and vibration resistant joints even with elevated temperatures. This makes them ideal for use in industries such as solar and wind energy, aerospace, rail, HVAC, white goods, electronics, and heavy/general engineering. The JRP structural range includes JRP‐Lock, JRP‐Bulb, and JRP‐Hem rivet types, available in steel, stainless steel and aluminium materials, allowing them to be used in all sorts of environmental conditions. The JRP‐Lock rivet type is most commonly used in structural applications, specifically where high shear and tensile strengths are required. The high clamping properties assist with closing joint gaps and are especially effective in moisture and pressure type applications. They are used in a multitude of applications,

// By exclusively sourcing products that exceed tolerances which are then subject to rigorous quality checking, we can ensure that only high-quality products make up the JRP range. //

torque-expo.com

→

COVER PROFILE JATON RIVETING PRODUCTS

→

where a vibration‐resistant, tamper‐proof and low‐cost quick fixing solution is needed. The JRP‐Bulb rivet type provides a large blind side bearing area with a retained mandrel which avoids causing damage, electrical problems or rattling due to loose stems. Ideal for use in thin sheet materials, they compensate for irregular, oversized, slotted or misaligned holes. Due to their hole fill properties, they can stop movement. They also have exceptional shear and tensile strengths. Similar to the JRP Bulb, the JRP‐Hem rivet type has a large blind side bearing area with a mechanically locked mandrel, but with a more restricted grip range. They are ideal for use in thin sheet materials and can be used as a pivot due to their setting style. They also compensate for irregular, oversized, slotted, or misaligned holes, and can stop movement. If strength is a premium requirement in the selection of a structural rivet, then the exceptional shear and tensile charac‐ teristics offered by the JRP‐Hem would be our recommendation. As demonstrated, there are multiple complexities involving structural rivets, and that is why we place technical support at the forefront of the brand. THE FUTURE FOR JRP Introducing new products to the range underlines JRP’s commitment to mirroring the demands of the market. As a result, we have continued range growth planned for well into 2022, with significant investment sanctioned for stock arriving later this year. Despite the recent introduction of thirty‐two coloured rivets, added primarily for the roofing and cladding market, we had repeated enquiries for Anthracite Grey (RAL7016), which was not included. As a result, this item has now been added to complement the other colours and will be in stock soon. Depen‐ dent upon volume, we can add any RAL or BS colours required. NO HALF MEASURES JRP is no half measure. The range includes a significant 1,300 products, including rivets, rivet nuts and manual tooling. As standard, all products are clearly labelled with batch and lot numbers, which can also be supported with requests for full lot traceability, ISIR and PPAP certification upon request. Rivets are available in aluminium, steel zinc & Clr Tri3, A2 stainless steel, A4 stainless steel, and copper. Sizes range from 2.4mm to 9.8mm, depending on the type. Rivet nuts are available in aluminium, steel zinc & Clr Tri8, A2 stainless steel and A4 stainless steel. Sizes range from M3 to M12, depending on the type.

torque-expo.com

> CASE STUDY 1 < Following the initial launch, discussions began with a major account to offer a select range of products to expand their online offering. A mix of 150 popular sizes, head styles, and rivet types was selected to trial, to see if additional sales could be developed. We supported this project by creating technical datasheets for the customer to promote on their website. These included specific types and uses, possible applica‐ tion sectors, measurement criteria, material specification, manufacturing tolerances and standards information. The trial was so successful that an additional 100 items of rivets and rivet nuts were added to the trial range within the first trading quarter of the original launch. The technical data was also provided for these additional lines. I am pleased to say that the success has continued into this year, and the range is to be developed further with the inclusion of the new structural and coloured rivets.

> CASE STUDY 2 < Products supplied: 3.2 and 4.0 dome head JRP‐Bulb structural rivets in A2 stainless steel. Having only recently expanded the structural rivet range, we were able to help an existing customer and secure new business. The customer was experiencing consistent supply issues from a leading brand. As a result, a production line had stopped with the manufacturer which they were supplying. After cross‐referencing the competitor part number and checking that the JRP range met the technical criteria of shear and tensile strengths, we were able to offer an ex‐stock solution that kept the manufacturer meeting its supply deadlines. www.owlett-jaton.com Tel. 01785 811300 info@owlett-jaton.com

1,300 products comprise the JRP range, with new additions planned for 2021-2022

CONNECT WITH THE INTERNATIONAL FASTENER AND TOOL INDUSTRY TORQUE T TO ORQUE U MAGA MAGAZINE G ZI ZINE GETS YOU Y U FACE-TO-FACE YO F CE TO FA FA F CE WITH TOP INDUSTRY EXECS THROUGH OUR REGULAR GUEST EDITOR AND WOMEN IN FASTENER FEATURES OPINIONS > PREDICTIONS > EXPERIENCES > INSIGHTS > UNDERSTANDING

DON’T MISS OUT – SUBSCRIBE AT WWW.TORQUE-EXPO.COM/SUBSCRIBE WANT TO TAKE PART? SEND US A LINE AT INFO@TORQUE-EXPO.COM

TOOLS MADE IN GERMANY Stahlwille

TORQUE WITH THE SPECIALISTS One year away from its 160th anniversary, Stahlwille is one of the longest established torque and tool specialists in the world, still at the cutting edge of the torque field…

roducing high quality and well thought out products has been the name of the game ever since Mr Eduard Wille established Stahlwille at the sprightly age of 25, back in 1862. Nowadays, Stahlwille’s uncompromising quest for quality has seen it become a globally recognised specialist in torque technology, tool storage and hand tool manufacturing. NETWORKING TOOLS The inception of Industry 4.0 has been pivotal for production lines and increasingly for the world of construction too. Estab‐ lished in recent years, Stahlwille’s DAPTIQ brand highlights its networkable tools for Industry 4.0, offering product solutions which can be integrated into customer systems and into produc‐ tion processes for maximum efficiency and process security, not least error proofing. CONSOLIDATED STRENGTH & EXPERTISE Modern times have also seen this long‐established tool specialist acquire some choice companies, expanding expertise and strength in depth. Notable buy outs have included (in 2001) VBW Werkzeugfabrik GmbH (a 200 year old quality plier manufac‐ turer) and ALARM Werkzeuge GmbH (a business concentrating on sanitary, heating, electrical and building trades). 2015 saw Stahlwille look further afield and it bought Californian company Jetco Torque Tools, a specialist in torque and testing technology. Merging under the umbrella of the Stahlwille Group, the companies all have a passion for tools and for serving their customers. Each of the four subsidiaries of the STAHLWILLE Group – SWM, VBW, JetCo and Alarm – has its own identity and its own core competency. Each is well established in its market segment and has a loyal customer base. Together the four repre‐ sent a formidable wealth of experience and expertise. DEMANDING TARGET GROUPS Over the years, Stahlwille has served a variety of industries, including vehicle construction and shipbuilding, through to ever more demanding and exacting sectors, including aviation, trans‐ port and energy. Breaking new ground, Stahlwille has continued to develop more innovative (and intelligent) torque technology and tool systems, high‐quality screwing tools as well as individ‐ ual solutions for tool storage. Stahlwille is no stranger to product design awards – like its 2020 Gold German Design Award for its unique Torsiotronic electromechanical torque screwdriver, which gives users audible

torque-expo.com

FROM THE AGE OF STEAM... TO INDUSTRY 4.0 Stahlwille has been established long enough to have gone through not just one, but many industrial revolutions. Back in 1890 it installed its first steam machine, just a few years before early electrically‐powered machines were being installed in factories for the very first time. While firmly a ‘made in Germany’ manufacturer, Stahlwille has long been an outward looking company. By 1914, the Wille brothers had 500 employees and were sending a whopping 80% of products for export. Nowadays exports still make up the majority of production (60%) and the firm has its own sales branches worldwide (11 in Europe, one in China and one in USA). and tactile signals – the unmistakable ‘click and slip’ stop signal – once the pre‐set torque has been reached. Even more recently, Stahlwille was named the world market leader for manually operated tools for torque applications by the World Market Leader Index. To ﬁnd out more about Stahlwille’s award winning torque range, visit the website... www.stahlwille.de Watch out for more on Stahlwille in the next edition of Torque Magazine.

PREMIUM TOOL SOLUTIONS SINCE 1862

Tool Trolley 95VA. Maximum storage space in its most compact form, extremely manoeuvrable and mobile. This is STAHLWILLE‘s Tool Trolley 95 VA. Equipped with innovative features and a multi-stage safety concept, it is well received in any workshop environment. The legendary STAHLWILLE durability is assured by the high-grade components and the particularly wear-resistant worktop made of stainless steel. Find out more. Visit www.stahlwille.de.

TOOLS MADE IN GERMANY Reisser Ltd.

REISSER RAMPS UP POWER TOOL ACCESSORIES With improved bit performance, longevity and certiﬁcations, Reisser's PTA range is one to watch

hen it comes to innovation, quality and performance, Germany has a well‐deserved reputation for produc‐ ing quality tools which will fulﬁl the exacting require‐ ments of the professional tradesman. Bearing this in mind, it is unsurprising that Reisser has always sourced its premium ranges of hammer drills, jigsaw and sabre saw blades from Europe. Advancements in production techniques in recent years such as the adoption of dry machining for drill shanks, have led to a cleaner manufacturing process and improved tool life. The util‐ isation of punch ﬁxing locates the tip more accurately and prevents movement as it is brazed to the body, while advances in tip and shank design have increased drilling speed and dura‐ bility, as well as optimising dust removal and reducing vibration.

// Advancements in production techniques in recent years such as the adoption of dry machining for drill shanks, have led to a cleaner manufacturing process and improved tool life. // These improvements have increased bit performance and longevity, however, there are also additional benefits to be gained with regards to safety as where applicable all Reisser hammer bits are manufactured in accordance with the requirements of the PGM masonry drill bit certification board. This requires the use of dimensionally precise carbide tips and factory inspection to enable the products to carry their PGM certification mark. This approval benefits both the installer and manufacturer of the anchor, in that it clearly displays the products suitability for use with safety critical fixings and offers protection against liability not provided with the use of non‐approved drill bits. Reisser’s premium ranges consist of the SPEEDSTER two cutter SDS‐plus hammer bit, and the ZENTRO four cutter bit for maximum hole concentricity and drilling speed. ZENTRO bits are available for both SDS‐plus and SDS‐max drilling machines. Reisser’s jig and sabre saw blade range is also entirely sourced from a partner company in Germany, which is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of these products. After 50 years of co‐operation and growth, the range has been expanded to include more specialised blades such the LAMINATOR – manufactured using bi‐metal technology for long life, and with a shorter length and fine‐tooth pitch for the ultra‐clean cutting of laminate flooring and parquet. Also in the range are the KOMBI multi‐material blade, STAR triple ground fine cut blade and the CURVE double edged blade for fast, clean, curved cuts. The latest additions also include a range of oscillating multi‐ tool blades with the STARLOCK shank, as Reisser looks to further expand its share of the blade market.

torque-expo.com

The SPEEDSTER two cutter SDS-plus hammer bit is among Reisser's premium ranges With a continued focus on improving sales and levels of engagement within its loyal distributor base, each of the new PTA ranges beneﬁt from quality packaging with informative and eye‐catching labelling, as well as bespoke units available to merchants for display purposes, providing them with the best opportunity to sell the range and beneﬁt from the trust and recognition of the Reisser brand. As an international supplier of high‐performance wood‐ screws and power tool accessories, Reisser has grown to become one of the leading brands within the merchant indus‐ try, supplying to both national and independent distributors as well as the main buying groups. www.reisser.co.uk

classic • system • automotive

QUALITY S I N C E 19 51

NEW ON STOCK: Tapping screws: ISO 14585 ISO 14586 type C

Thread rolling screws: ISO 14581 DIN 7500 CE/M

Drilling screws: ISO 15481 ISO 15482 DIN 7504 type K

Hexagon socket set screws: DIN 913/ISO 4026 DIN 914/ISO 4027

Thread rolling screws: ISO 14583 ISO 14579 ISO 14580

Nuts: DIN 985 DIN 6923

Achilles Seibert GmbH · Philipp-Reis-Straße 3 · D-24558 Henstedt-Ulzburg · Fon: +49 4193 89 55 Fax: +49 4193 89 56 99 · sales@achill-fasteners.com · www.achill-fasteners.com

T H E

G L O B A L

P A R T N E R

F O R

D I S T R I B U T O R S

TOOLS MADE IN GERMANY CAS

ITH TORQUE TOOLS JOINS THE ALLIANCE Rapidly expanding battery alliance picks up collaboration with torque tool specialist ITH

ncreasing numbers of fastener‐related tool brands are join‐ ing the Cordless Alliance System (CAS). The scheme, which shares battery technology between multiple power tool brands, recently added torque tool specialist ITH to its ranks, coming a few months after riveting and processing technology specialist Gesipa. The cross‐manufacturer alliance was initiated by Nürtingen‐ headquartered Metabo, using its own battery technology. Now, 24 brands (and 230 machines) use the same battery system, removing the battery compatibility issues that have been present since the arrival of professionally and industrial‐ready electric power tools for end users. Thanks to the arrival of ITS, the portfolio has expanded to include the Battery Torque Wrench type ADS for torques up to 6,000 Nm (4,425 ft lbs). Cordless torque wrenches up to 6,000 Nm are used in steel construction, commercial vehicles, construction machinery, cranes, wind turbines, the rail indus‐ try and other sectors. “With ITH, we now have a strong partner on board who is a specialist for large bolt connections,” says Metabo CEO Horst W. Garbrecht. “This shows that CAS is also the best choice in this industrial sector – when it comes to very high torques and bigger bolt connections.” All machines of the CAS partners are 100% compatible with one battery and can be combined in any way. Based on Metabo LiHD battery technology, CAS brings together the most diverse trades under one roof and offers professional users the free‐ dom to work with standard and special products from various manufacturers in a mobile and flexible manner, far away from the power socket. ITH Precise bolting tools and system solutions have been devel‐ oped by ITH for tightening and loosening bolt connections with thread diameters bigger than 16 mm (5/8”). The company from the Sauerland region in Germany is a leading global system supplier in bolting technology. ITH President Frank Hohmann runs the globally‐focused family business ITH in the second generation together with his

torque-expo.com

brother Jörg Hohmann. He said: “It was not only the quality of the rechargeable battery technology that convinced us, but also the previous, long‐standing cooperation with Metabo in the development. We are an engineering company with a focus on innovation and customer focus – that is why cooperation in terms of engineering and development are important to us.” Jörg Hohmann added: “The cooperation has always been very productive. So, it was only a matter of time for us to join CAS as well. At ITH, the benefits for our customers have always been at the centre of our strategy, which is reflected in the so‐called “ITH customer focus strategy”. When looking at CAS, professional users recognize the advantages of a cross‐brand battery system. They are adding many highly specialized manufacturers to their own toolset – all based on powerful battery technology.” TORQUE TOOL > Battery torque wrench with optional turning angle function and digital data logging The first CAS compatible machine from ITH Bolting Technol‐ ogy is the battery torque wrench type ADS. The small and lightweight battery nut runner with power classes up to 6,000 Nm (4,425 ft*lbs) has the “best power‐to‐weight ratio in the market”, according to ITH, and turns off automatically as soon as the target parameters such as torque or turning angle angle (ITH option “ALPHA”) are reached. The ADS features a newly developed high‐performance gearbox and a brushless motor, which is highly wear‐reduced.

“The ADS is the world’s only cordless torque wrench in the segment for high torque values that can be optionally equipped with an external, digital control unit, the ‘ADS Smart Control’,” said Frank Hohmann. “With one control unit, the bolting parameters such as torque or angle of rotation of several cord‐ less torque wrenches can be set and documented centrally ‐ ideal for series assemblies. Likewise, with the `Docu` option, we offer a version for digital documentation, which, in addition to the cordless technology, is a decisive trend in the market.” The ADS is available in three versions: Basic, Standard, and Digital. System components such as supports can be designed according to customer requirements. Existing power sockets (hexagonal, hexagonal, hexagonal, or other) in the customer’s inventory can flexibly be exchanged on the square drive of the cordless battery torque wrench – depending on the bolt connection.

The Hohmann brothers are the second generation of their family to run ITH (Industrie‐Technische Konstruktion Hohmann, “Industrial‐technical design Hohmann”). A leading system supplier in bolting technology with bolting tools, engi‐ neering, fasteners, and service is present in more than 40 countries worldwide ‐ including 12 own ITH subsidiaries. With more than 200 international patents, ITH Bolting Technology is one of the major innovation drivers in the market. The Cordless Alliance System was launched in summer 2018 with nine power tool and machine manufacturers from different sectors. Currently, the companies Metabo, Rothenberger, Mafell, Eisenblätter, Collomix, Haaga, Electrostar (Starmix), Eibenstock, Steinel, Rokamat, Elried/edding, Birchmeier, fischer, Prebena, Cembre, Pressfit, Jöst abrasives, Gesipa, Trumpf, Monti, Baier, Scangrip and ITH Bolting Technology are part of CAS. www.cordless-alliance-system.com

www.pasvahl.de

n o i l l i s m w 4 e 3 r c s l a Up to i c spe ! k c o t s m o r f y l t c dire

Fit bolts, plugs, knurled thumb screws, square head bolts, flat headed screws, hexagon set screws, brass screws and specials.

FIT BOLTS according to DIN 609, 610, ISO 7379, DIN 7968

Fon +49 (0) 40 532 852- 0 Fax +49 (0) 40 532 852-52 info@pasvahl.de

TOOLS MADE IN GERMANY Wiha

TOOLING UP FOR THE EMOBILITY REVOLUTION For automotive workshops, the advent of electric and hybrid vehicles has brought about staff training requirements as well as the need for new insulated certified tools. Enter Wiha with its XL tool case and eMobility workshop trolley…

afety first: When working on e‐vehicles it is vitally important that insulated tools provide users with 100% reliable protection. Wiha guarantees its products with the benefit of over 40 years of experience in the development and manufacture of insulated VDE tools. Based on the special applications, requirements and needs of automotive repair workshop employees, the manufacturer developed two different tool set solutions with different scopes. All tools contained in each set are VDE certified, have protective insulation and have been individually tested at 10,000 V AC and approved for 1,000 V AC. PROTECTED WORK WITH THE 113-PIECE EMOBILITY WORKSHOP TROLLEY SET Distributed over five drawers, the entire equipment of the workshop trolley is protected and clearly arranged in precisely fitting foam inserts. Thanks to the fully extendable drawers, the tools are always easily accessible and can be used quickly. Additional storage space and the integrated four‐way power socket allow the trolley to be expanded individually with elec‐ trical appliances. Thanks to its roller runners, the workshop trolley is very mobile and can conveniently transport up to 150 kg of contents within the workshop. At the same time, the locks on the roller runners guarantee stability and steadiness, which means that the trolley can also be used as a stable work bench or storage shelf. The highlights of its contents include the speedE® electric e‐screwdriver, insulated torque tools, nut driver inserts, screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, a multifunc‐ tional flashlight with LED, laser, and ultraviolet light function and much more. From voltage testers to torque keys, from protective gloves to warning signs: with the fully equipped workshop trolley, users always have the right Wiha tool avail‐ able, while being fully protected. THE COMPACT TOOL CASE SOLUTION Regardless of whether it is to be used stationary in the automo‐ tive repair workshop or on the go (such as in the installation of charging stations), the robust tool case XL eMobility offers professional users many features. The tool inserts have been designed with an eye to efficient operation so that all tools can be removed quickly and easily. The contents of the case can be secured against theft with padlocks on the integrated eyelets. Additional storage space is provided by extra space in the bottom tray of the case. In addition, the ergonomic two‐compo‐ nent handle guarantees a comfortable carrying experience. The robust case is equipped with gas pressure shock absorbers which prevent uncontrolled closing of the lid and thus prevent injuries to the user. In addition to an insulated torque tool set, nut driver inserts, screwdrivers and pliers, it contains, similar to the workshop trolley, a full set of equipment that includes a voltage tester, protective gloves and even a warning sign. www.wiha.com/showtime

torque-expo.com

Rapid Industrial Fasteners Ltd Honest lead-times you can rely on... Say goodbye to ‘should be’ ISO9001-2015 Manufacturer of special Fasteners M1.6 - M100, Componets and Turned parts

Materials we manufacture from include: Duplex & Super Duplex • Exotic Materials & Alloys • Heat Resistant Materials • Stainless Steel • Carbon & Steel Non-Ferrous • Standard Bolting Grades 4.6, 8.8, 10.9, 12.9 •Petrochemical grades B7/L7, B7M/L7M, B8M-1, B8M-2, B8-1,B8-2, B8T-1, B8T-2

Rapid Industrial Fasteners Manufacturing Hub 27 Lye Valley Industrial Estate, Stourbridge DY9 8HX Telephone : 0121 501 3903 Email: manufacturing@rapidfast.com www.rapidfast.co.uk

THE WORLD OF

INCHFASTENERS Nylon insert nuts Cleveloc nuts High grades Castle nuts Nyloc dome nuts Stover nuts Stover ﬂange nuts Fine pitch

Y E A R S

Full and lock nuts And stacks more! Caxton Way, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 3RY Email: nuts@dsfasteners.co.uk www.dsfasteners.co.uk

SCHRODER www.schroederschrauben.de

THE

SELF

LOCKING

NUT

SPECIALISTS

Call us on +44 01842 763000 or fax on +44 01842 764055

TERRITORY FOCUS

ITALY

SCS CONCEPT GROUP >

TORQUE CONTROL SCS Concept has a new automotive-proven controller and a fresh range of easy to operate electronic click wrenches…

The CL and CLS series are a new range of electronic click-wrenches from SCS Concept

IM EVO is the new universal controller by SCS Concept. It controls up to 12 tools from any manufacturer and manages several virtual stations. This universal controller simplifies production station management and makes programming easier, providing a real cost saving in installation and programming. IT costs and resources are also saved, since the production software communicates only with this controller, connected to all the tools. Operator training and maintenance activities are also reduced, with improved quality and less time required to make the station operative. Proposed as an advanced Industry 4.0 solution, it features communication with tools in several industrial protocols and in implementing fieldbus. Industry 4.0 solutions are not only for connecting together several different power tools and electronic wrenches, but also full data traceability, where all the production data associated with the vehicle identifica‐ tion number (VIN) is read via a barcode scanner connected to the controller. Programming is performed via a web interface accessible by any PC on the same network of the FIM EVO. The output from the controller can be delivered to the specific customer produc‐ tion system. The results, statics and report can be reviewed from the web interface, making production process monitoring easy and quick. Advanced installation can have geoloca‐ tion tools and/or socket tray management,

torque-expo.com

// Industry 4.0 solutions are not only for connecting together several different power tools and electronic wrenches, but also full data traceability. //

for an even more complete controlled and error‐proof production station. As soon as it was released on the market, the FIM EVO was a great success, says SCS Concept, revealing that Italian car manufacturer FIAT installed 120 FIM EVO units on its new production line. CL AND CLS SERIES ELECTRONIC CLICK WRENCHES A particular solution is the FIM EVO used as a controller for the electronic click‐wrenches by SCS Concept: CL and CLS series. This new series of electronic wrenches features a torque/angle measurement on

FIM EVO is already in use on automotive production lines

FIM EVO is SCS Concept's new universal controller, capable of handling up to 12 tools a traditional click‐wrench. The mechani‐ cal click is adjusted as in a standard click‐ wrench, but the result of the operation is controlled by the wrench sensors. In this way, the process becomes error proof and traceable. The electronic click‐wrench is a produc‐ tion tool specially developed for critical applications, where error‐proofing is mandatory. The wrench is light and thin, able to reach narrow areas where a bigger electronic wrench cannot fit. Despite the technology present in this tool, for the operator it operates as the equivalent of an old click‐wrench. So, no long training programme is needed to put this tool in production. The operator is also advised about the status of the tightening opera‐ tion by the onboard LEDs. SCS Concept says that due to its design, the

mechanical click is much stronger than competitor designs. The technology makes the click point more stable during operation, therefore making the production operations more precise and requiring less torque adjustments. The CL/CLS wrench is equipped with an 868 / 915 MHz radio to communicate with the FIM EVO. Powered by internal rechargeable battery, it is automat‐ ically charged when positioned on its cradle. Untightening detection is an additional feature of this wrench. If the operator, by chance, loosens the screw while removing the wrench after the tightening operation, it invalidates the good result of the assembly process. In that case, the wrench automati‐ cally detects the unwanted operation to take corrective actions. www.scsconcept.com

How do you prevent torque overloads with un-skilled operators? OUR 500 AND 600 SERIES ARE THE SOLUTION!

o o o

o o !" # $"

TECNOGI is part of SCS Concept Group

Italian Manufacturer of Dynamometric Wrenches

TERRITORY FOCUS

ITALY

MECAVIT ADDS NEW STEEL WIRE PREPARATION LINE TO PRODUCTION SHED Mecavit Srl discusses its three year technological investment plan, production facility expansion and its new steel wire preparation line with Torque Magazine...

ounded in 1980, Mecavit Srl produces fasten‐ ers in Northern Italy, near Bologna, in the industrial area of Castel Guelfo, including stan‐ dard unified and special screws for virtually Giuseppe every industrial sector, Verdoliva made of high resis‐ tance carbon steel and stainless steel. In recent months, as part of a three‐year technological investment plan, the Italian manufacturer has completed the construction of a new section of the production shed of about 1,000 square meters which will be dedicated to a new raw material processing line. The new steel wire preparation line will allow the Mecavit Company to be more flexible and efficient in the production of both stan‐ dard and special fasteners. The processing foreseen in the new production department is the preparation of the wire rod which will allow produc‐ tion greater flexibility and quality control for all its products manufactured in the Castel Guelfo factory. Giuseppe Verdoliva, Mecavit Sales

torque-expo.com

Director, says: “The wire rod we are going to process will be used for all Mecavit production, guaranteeing higher quality both for the automotive sector and for all the other sectors that have been our Mecavit customers for many years.” Over half of Mecavit’s production is destined for overseas markets, including the rest of the EU, Russia and Extra‐ Euro‐

// The wire rod we are going to process will be used for all Mecavit production. // pean Countries. Key markets served include mechanical, home appliances and automo‐ tive. The latter is hugely important to Mecavit, representing almost one third of its business. Mecavit’s automotive business is handled via distribution, rather than directly with OEMs. But manufacturers and distributors alike are welcome to contact Mecavit and partner together on finalising designs, materials and tolerances.

Over the last few years, the production of special screws has increased thanks to several investments in new production technologies and the achievement of the prestigious IATF 16949 certificate which authorises Mecavit to produce items for the automotive sector. Therefore, the company can say that as of today, the largest percent‐ age of turnover is in favour of the customised products but without abandon‐ ing that of the standard product specialised in high‐strength steel socket screws. PRODUCTION FACILITIES Mecavit produces a wide assortment of standard parts, and 4,000 pallets of unified screws (DIN, UNI and ISO) in stock, ready for delivery. Back in 2017, the Italian government launched its Indus‐ trial Plan 4.0, a national programme offer‐ ing tax incentives to industry to encourage investment in new technology and to attract investment cash from over‐ seas. Mecavit used the opportunity to complement its Industry 4.0 manufactur‐ ing capabilities, bringing in two additional sorting machines, one thread rolling machine and one multi‐station machine. www.mecavit.it

TERRITORY FOCUS

ITALY

NEW THREADED INSERTS AND MORE, FROM FIXI A brand new catalogue from Fixi includes new and extended ranges, included threaded inserts and new tools… FIXI’s stainless steel A4 threaded inserts range has expanded with the new catalogue

ince 1984, FIXI Group has been a reliable partner for companies working in the metal sheet, solid parts and plastic components industries that are looking for effective fastening solution for every needs. Serving hundreds of customers in Europe and overseas, FIXI Group is continuously improving its services and range of products to offer more customer‐ oriented solutions to all companies look‐ ing for fasteners. The 2021 FIXI initiatives are in progress with the introduction of the newest release of the catalogue of threaded inserts, available for download from FIXI’s website. The group of threaded inserts, also called as rivet nuts, represents one of the most important family of fasteners for FIXI Group. Thanks to its expertise in the fasteners industry, FIXI is able to offer what it says is one of the most complete range of threaded inserts in the market, with short delivery time and very competitive prices. Threaded inserts are widely used in

industries working with metal sheet appli‐ cations, such as automotive, domestic appliances, carpentry and many more. The new edition of the catalogue for threaded inserts introduces in the stainless steel group the rivet nut with closed and knurled body, as well as the reduced head

In the group of aluminum rivet nuts, the complete set of knurled body inserts has been included as well. Concerning the family of tools, FIXI has introduced the new oleo‐pneumatic tool AP5, suitable for bigger thread size from M8 to M12.

// FIXI Group is continuously improving its services and range of products to offer more customer-oriented solutions to all companies looking for fasteners. // half‐hexagonal body for thicker grip range. In the portfolio of stainless steel A4 threaded inserts, FIXI has enlarged its range adding the rivet nut round head knurled body for thicker grip, the whole closed end and knurled type family and some new sizes for the closed end half‐ hexagonal shape.

You can watch demo videos of most of Fixi’s products, download full catalogues or single data sheets and send questions or inquiries using the request form at www.fixi.it. Any questions and inquiries are welcomed by the FIXI Export team. www.fixi.it

torque-expo.com

TERRITORY FOCUS

ITALY

B-LEAN FACTORY SYSTEMS > BERARDI’S NEW LOGISTICS DIVISION

fter more than 100 years in the fastener business, Berardi contin‐ ues to keep on adding value to its extensive range of products and its stor‐ age capabilities. In 2021, Berardi renewed its lean logistics division, rebranding it as “B‐Lean Factory Systems”. The B‐Lean team develops customised logistics solutions for clients that demand flexibility, reliability and quick responses to the most complex requirements. The objective is to become an all‐round supplying partner, offering a 360° service. The B‐Lean division tackles wasteful processes along the supply chain, allowing clients to spare the effort of managing C‐ parts and industrial components for the assembly lines of the finished products. As of today, the B‐lean team can offer the experience gained with over 400 active lean supply systems. “Having reached this milestone, we decided to rebrand the company’s logis‐ tics division, and further invest in its development,” says Andrea Destro, B‐Lean team manager. “Our goal is to enhance the performance of the companies we work

with, using a pragmatic approach to anal‐ yse and solve any logistics problem they may have. Personalised solutions are crucial to extract the full potential from our services. “For each project, we offer the specialised skills of our team, building a

relationship of mutual trust with the client. First, we understand their require‐ ments; then we proceed to implementing the project in close cooperation with them, adapting to their changing needs.” www.berardi-screws-bolts.com

BONTEMPI VIBO ACQUIRES MI.ME.AF

n its 60th anniversary year, Bontempi Vibo SpA has acquired 100% of Mi.Me.Af shares, a long‐established company from Italy’s Lecco area which specialises in the production of special design fasteners. The company, with a turnover of about €6 million per annum, is recognised for high quality and product customisation for a wide variety of sectors, from automotive to household appliances, from furniture to the locks and compressors sector. The acquisition of Mi.Me.Af. SpA is part of Bontempi VIBO’s industrial growth plan, which has set itself the goal of achieving €80 million revenue by 2025. Bontempi Vibo acquired Fram in 2019, enabling the company to increase produc‐ tion and considerably increasing its line‐up to reportedly one of the largest product ranges in Europe in the fastener sector. Future targeted acquisitions of solid and innovative companies are expected, which will allow the Group to expand its produc‐

torque-expo.com

// The company, with a turnover of about €6 million per annum, is recognised for high quality and product customisation for a wide variety of sectors. //

tion range reaching new strategic sectors. Bontempi VIBO CEO Raoul Bontempi said the strategy is to: “get out of the indus‐ trial dwarfism that has characterised Italian SMEs, to prepare the company to be increasingly a protagonist in the challenges that we will face in the fastener sector.” On 16 March of this year Bontempi VIBO also received the Cribis Prime Company as certification of its maximum commercial reliability, an award that was obtained only by 6% of Italian companies. www.vibo.com

QUALITY, EFFICIENCY, PROFESSIONALITY.

IF YOU CAN DREAM IT... WITH AMBROVIT YOU CAN DO IT!

Ĉńƪ ŕō Ý žŕńĭā ŴÝŸƇōĈŸ Ƥĩŕɕ ğŕŸ ŕƣĈŸ ɀȾ ƪĈÝŸžɕ ĩÝž ùĈĈō Ý ńĈÝāĈŸ ĭō ƇĩĈ ƼĈńā ŕğ ùŕńƇž Ýōā žûŸĈƤž ĭō ƇĩĈ UƇÝńĭÝō Ýōā 1ƍŸŕŴĈÝō ŋÝŸŀĈƇɚ {ƍŸ ûÝƇÝńŕġƍĈ ĭōûńƍāĈžɔ āŸƪƤÝńń žûŸĈƤžɕ ûÝŸŴĈōƇŸƪ Ýōā ûĩĭŴùŕÝŸā žûŸĈƤžɕ āŕŋĈ Ýōā ĈƍŸŕ žûŸĈƤžɕ ŋÝûĩĭōĈ žûŸĈƤžɕ žĈńğɫƇÝŴŴĭōġ žûŸĈƤžɕ ûŕōûŸĈƇĈ žûŸĈƤžɕ ùńŕûŀğŸÝŋĈ žûŸĈƤžɕ žĈńğɫāŸĭńńĭōġ žûŸĈƤžɕ žƇÝĭōńĈžž žƇĈĈń žûŸĈƤžɕ ĩĈƩ ńÝġ žûŸĈƤžɕ ōƍƇžɕ ƤÝžĩĈŸžɕ ùŕńƇžɕ ùńĭōā ŸĭƣĈƇžɚ AMBROVIT: YOUR BUSINESS PARTNER FOR FASTENING SYSTEMS

Ambrovit S.p.A. Italia

A DEDICATED OPERATOR FOR ALL YOUR QUESTIONS

Tel +39 (0) 382 810280

WWW.AMBROVIT.COM

TERRITORY FOCUS

ITALY

“ANYWHERE THERE’S METAL, THERE’S RIVIT” Dynamically opening branches in the new frontiers of global development, Rivit has grown to operate in 65 countries, bringing its range of fastening systems, including rivets and tools, to increasing numbers of customers... Rivet was established in Italy back in 1973. Now the firm operates in 60-plus territories, including India and Morocco

ivit is a leading Italian company in the production and distribution of an extensive range of products and services. The firm focuses on fastening systems and the relevant tools for sheet metal working and assembly. Formed in 1973, Rivit came to develop a wide range of fastener products for industry, including blind rivets, rivet nuts, self‐clinching, welding studs, blind bolts, latches, cage nuts, clamps, steel screws, stainless steel screws and plastic screws. Rivit also develops related tools for their installation, including tools for blind rivets and for rivet nuts, presses, welding machines and tools for blind bolts. Evolution and technological innovation play a key role at Rivit, but the firm believes that a direct relationship with customers is

absolutely vital. The company mission focuses on fully satisfying customer needs, working and growing as a true partner. Rivit is well rooted both in the domestic and international markets, operating in over 65 countries. The global side of the business has seen the company proac‐ tively enter the most interesting and dynamic markets in the world; Founded in 2011, Rivit India Fasteners Private Ltd is a distribution company for the Indian market and the neighbouring countries of Rivit products. New frontiers for interna‐ tional development are formed almost constantly, not least in Africa, so in 2017 Rivit gave birth to RivitMaroc, the new Rivit branch in Morocco. The firm says: “For anywhere where there is metal, there is Rivit!”

// Rivit is well rooted both in the domestic and international markets, operating in over 65 countries. // 38

torque-expo.com

THE COMPREHENSIVE RANGE OF FASTENERS PROPOSED BY RIVIT INCLUDES > Blind rivets, which allow blind fastening, working from one side only. They are produced in several lengths and diameters, standard or structural type; they are available with dome, large, countersunk head and they can be made in aluminum, steel, stainless steel, cooper, for every kind of application. Rivet nuts can self produce threading on pre‐drilled sheet metals, that cannot be reached from the back. Their use does not cause damages or deformations on materials subject to surface treatment. They are available in stainless steel, steel and aluminum; they can have a dome head, countersunk head or reduced head from M3 to M16 with cylindrical or hexagonal, open or blind shank. Self-clinching, quick and safe fastening systems, respond to assembly challenges on laminates, boxed and thin sheets. Each range of fastener includes relevant tools for their application, such as rivet tools and presses. For more details, head to Rivit’s official site. www.rivit.it

torque-expo.com

SPOTLIGHT OPTIMAXX

INVESTING TO STAY AHEAD Norman Shimwell, Managing Director at Optimaxx, talks global expansion plans, research and development investments and overcoming recent Covid and Brexit challenges with Torque Magazine…

ptimaxx Ltd was founded in 2014 by Norman Shimwell and is fast becoming recognised as a major player in the high‐performance woodscrew market in the UK, with a distributor base already spanning 500‐plus stockists nationwide. The company was acquired by Royd Tool Group in July 2018 and has since increased its product range to include decking screws, flooring screws, screwdriver bits, construction screws and storage cases. Torque Magazine speaks with Norman Shimwell with regards to the coronavirus and Brexit periods and discussed how the brand plans on becoming the number one wood screw brand in the UK within the next two years, which according to the Royd Tool Group National Account Manager, the brand is on track to achieve. Not only does Optimaxx hope to be the biggest brand of its type in the UK, but it is also planning on more global expansion as Shimwell hopes to take the company to Europe. “We have started that process and have quite a number of European retailers inter‐ ested. Plans to set up distribution from mainland Europe are under way to overcome the complication Brexit has thrown up.” While many companies have struggled to stay afloat during the coronavirus period, Optimaxx has experienced an exponen‐ tial growth in sales. After experiencing a massive hit in April, the business is now running at nearly double of what it was running pre‐Covid and has almost doubled its turnover in the last twelve months. “We have taken advantage of the situation and turned it to good effect where possible,” adds Shimwell.

// We have sat at 80-90% of supply all the way through the covid pandemic and we currently have good levels of stock across the range. // Additionally, whilst many companies put their staff on furlough during this period, Optimaxx decided to focus on funnelling its resources into research and development. In April, May and June, the group had a whole team working on research and development. It also invested heavily into stock in April and May of last year to combat any supply and stock challenges. Not only did the industry face stock challenges, but it has also seen a huge growth in demand. However, having invested in stock during the start of the pandemic, Optimaxx was ready to face the challenge head on. “There has been a huge surge in demand within the industry. One of the biggest challenges has been supply and stock levels. However, we have sat at 80‐90% of supply all the way through the Covid pandemic and we are currently have good levels of stock across the range which is unheard of in our industry,” says Shimwell.

torque-expo.com

Optimaxx plans to expand its current range over the next 12 months

Despite the addition of export challenges as a result of Brexit, Optimaxx has managed to keep supply lines open but has faced challenges with regards to container costs. “Increased container costs have been a massive challenge,” says Shimwell. “We have managed to keep supply lines open by working with the factory, which is why our stock has been up at good levels. We have had to increase our team on the purchasing side to deal with that, so we have invested in that side of the busi‐ ness, but it is clearly paying off.” With many brands questioning what the coming months will look like after such a challenging period, Optimaxx is looking to develop its current range by bringing in new products and are also looking at ways to bring more of its manufacturing and pack‐ aging back to the UK. “We are going to expand the range over the next twelve months, bringing in a range of prepacked products for DIY type outlets and then we are going to broaden our offerings in the construction industry as well. The Optimaxx Maxx Impact Screw‐ driver bits are now available and getting some great feedback. The market is awash with cheap bits but these perform second to none,” says Shimwell. The Optimaxx mission will remain the same over the next twelve months, Shimwell tells Torque Magazine. Products will continue to be stocked at high levels to meet demand, and the group’s social media engagement will aim to remain ahead of competing brands and therefore continue to benefit stockists that are supplying Optimaxx. “My message to people would be: If the demand is there and you can get the stock in, you will get an increase in sales. And we’re not stopping, we are going faster and faster,” he says. www.optimaxx-uk.com

Nuts Fastener people with the stock and knowledge to solve every requirement NO MATTER HOW UNUSUAL

TORQUE FOCUS MACHINES, EQUIPMENT & TOOLING

TESTING, TAPPING & ROBOTS Machines, equipment and tooling round-up > New QC testing machines, warehouse robots, a new generation of threading tools and a new level of tapping… WEIGHPACK’S COMPACT AND MANEUVERABLE AMR ROBOT The Karter AMR scans its environment and maps out its surroundings, to find the most efficient route.

Weighpack International is introducing the Karter AMR robot (Autonomous Mobile Robot) which can automatically move products and materials within a company's existing infrastructure. It is a cost‐effective natural feature navigation solution that does not require any modifications on the shop floor. The Karter AMR robot is a mobile robot that has the ability to adapt to its environment. This mobile robot makes a scan of its environment using the built‐in sensors and

// It is the most compact and manoeuvrable AMR robot available and can be used in various markets around the world. //

safety lasers. In this way, the AMR maps out its surround‐ ings and can determine the most efficient route for itself. The navigation software is from BlueBotics, a company from Switzerland that has been making software for AGV/AMR vehicles for over 20 years. To manage and opti‐ mise all activities on site (including AGV/AMR Fleet manager), Weighpack provides ANT server, an advanced software for mission and fleet management. The Karter AMR robot moves up to 1,500 kilos of prod‐ uct efficiently and safely. After eight hours of operation, the unit takes only 10 minutes to recharge, after which it can continue for another eight hours. The AMR robot is modu‐ lar and available in various versions. “It is the most compact and manoeuvrable AMR robot available and can be used in various markets around the world,” says Patrick van Tiel of Weighpack. The units are built in the Weighpack factory in The Hague where there is a demonstration system available. Weighpack also offers 24/7 service and maintenance, as the customers of Weigh‐ pack are used to. www.weighpackinternational.com

torque-expo.com

HEROSLAM LAUNCHES INVESTMENT PLAN OF €3 MILLION, SUPPORTED BY BEAZ International thread rolling solutions provider Heroslam has an ambitious investment plan underway at its plant in Abanto‐Zierbena, Basque Country, Spain. Backed by the “3i Program” that BEAZ (beaz.bizkaia.eus) promotes in the Basque Country, Heroslam faces three main lines of strategic action for 2020‐2021. On the one hand is to increase the produc‐ tion capacity of thread rolling tools by acquiring new and state‐of‐the‐art machinery that allows it to absorb the growing demand of its clients in sectors as demand‐ ing as automotive, aerospace and energy, in which Heroslam enjoys an excellent international position. The application of lean manufacturing and Indus‐ try 4.0 strategies will be aimed at improving the effi‐ ciency of the production process, increasing production capacity between 20% and 30% and shortening production lead‐time and delivery times. In the R&D chapter, Heroslam intends to increase its capacity to improve products, expand the range of tools that respond to a greater number of applica‐ tions and explore new and disruptive technologies such as additive manufacturing and the application of new materials to stay at the forefront of the fastener industry. To do this, Heroslam is intensifying its research activity of new materials and coatings for thread rolling high‐hardness parts, through collabo‐ ration with leading technology centres in the region. The objective is to develop a new generation of threading tools that offer performance and durability improvements for thread rolling heat‐treated parts or parts made of special materials such as titanium or inconel, among others. The company also plans to continue with its busi‐ ness diversification strategy, both geographically and industry‐wise, doubling its commitment to high demanding sectors and betting on new markets with increasing potential such as China, Taiwan, Korea, Canada, Brazil and Russia. Heroslam continues to evolve technologically in product, manufacturing technologies and manage‐ ment systems. Find out more at...

// The objective is to develop a new generation of threading tools that offer performance and durability improvements. //

www.heroslam.com

Standard Listed - you know who’s best! But contact us for all the rest... • Non-preferred Metrics • Intermediate Sizes • Short and Long Lengths • Slotted Grub Screws • A4/80 Bolts & Socket Caps • 6 Lobe (TX) Drive Screws • All Metal Self-Locking Nuts • Studding Connectors And many more...

Tel: +44 (0) 117 - 972 8560 Fax: +44 (0) 117 - 972 8570 Email: sales@avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk

Online Product Guide: www.avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk Unit 10, Riverside Business Park, St Anne’s, Bristol, BS4 4ED, UK.

TORQUE FOCUS MACHINES, EQUIPMENT & TOOLING

BASS > A NEW LEVEL OF TAPPING With the AMGB V BTIC, German tool manufacturer BASS is presenting a new coating for its nut tap, raising the bar in tool life and process‐reliability. For international eyes, the abbreviation AMGB seems rather cryptic, whereas in German‐speaking countries it is the normal term for nut taps (“Automatenmuttergewinde‐ bohrer”). Located in southern Germany, the manufacturer BASS naturally chose the rather shorter AMGB for its nut tap line when it started producing this tool many years ago. With almost 75 years of experience in tapping, BASS now is a world‐wide renowned producer of tools that live up to high expectations, with modern machinery and state of the art processes as well as tool development. One of the youngest innovations is the BTIC coating, raising process‐ reliability and tool life to a new level. Combined with the modern geometry of the AMGB nut tap, customers benefit from higher output quantities and lower costs per nut.

// BASS now is a world-wide renowned producer of tools that live up to high expectations. //

TAPS THE WAY > Bass has almost 75 years experience in tapping

The AMGB is a specially developed nut tap for fully auto‐ matic tapping of nuts with through hole threads in the run‐ over tapping process. The AMGB line comes with different potentials to connect the bent shank: welding, soldering or a screw system with spring or cartridge – the latter one offering a special benefit to the user. Whilst, for example, welding the tap to the shank creates a solid connection, the connection via a cartridge saves shank, tap as well as machine components from breaking with the cartridge acting as predetermined breaking point. So, in case the torque gets too high, or has an unexpected torque peak due to a single nut with a missing hole or overhard nuts, it’s the cartridge breaking and thereby disconnecting the assembly – leaving machine, shank and tool unharmed. As this solution requires a V‐shaped 60° profile on the tap for screwing the cartridge onto the nut tap, it is called AMGB V. The tap, cartridge and bent shank are available starting from M8 or corresponding sizes in other thread types such as UNC of UNF. Besides the AMGB, BASS also offers cutting taps for union nuts as well as roll taps with reamers, living up to its claim to provide all products necessary for a successful threading operation. BASS is a medium‐sized company located in southern Germany. Since its foundation in 1947 BASS has been devel‐ oping, producing and distributing high‐precision products

torque-expo.com

for all industrial, efficient threading applications. Around the world, customers from the automotive and aviation industries, as well as mechanical engineering and medical technology, trust in solutions from the tapping specialist. www.bass-tools.com

TEST GMBH’S NEXT GENERATION OF JUNKER TESTING MACHINES A bolted connection often bears a lot of responsibility: e.g., in railroad or aeronautical engineering. But what can it withstand? And how long before it loosens? The Junker test has long been among the preferred methods to get the required answers for quality assurance. It is used in particular to measure the service life of a bolted connection under dynamic transverse load. But the established method still had its weaknesses. Up to now, it has only been possible and standardised on a vibration test stand to adjust the transverse stroke without specimen before the test. During the test, however, the actual resulting stroke declined because the bolted connection was tightened. If the bolt then loosened during the test, the stroke continued to change. In order to enable a more differentiated test setup, the new TesT 208.200kN allows for the control of the transverse stroke in a closed loop as desired during the running test. The transverse displacement amplitude can be kept constant and any desired ramps or other sequences can be simulated. This product innovation anticipates the new aviation standard ISO 16130, which describes amplitude regula‐ tion during the execution of experiments as preferred. It also meets DIN 65151, DIN 25201‐4, DIN 16130 and can be used to test all elements of bolt connections and lock‐ ing systems. With the 208.200kN, TesT has further developed the Junker test decisively, setting new standards in the quality assurance of bolted joints. Since the foundation in 1994, TesT has evolved into one of the leading manufacturers of testing machines. For more details, see the latest enhanced digital issue of Torque Magazine (May 2021), or head to the official site: www.test-gmbh.com

Junker machines have long been common in fastener QC labs

torque-expo.com

SPOTLIGHT TECKENTRUP

FULL POWER > HOW THE NSK-E WASHER KEEPS ELECTRICAL CONTACTS CONNECTED Loose screw connections in the energy market add up to costly power failures. teckentrup explains how it developed a locking element, the NSK-E lock washer, for reliable electrical connections…

ccording to the motto: “A reliable locking element for electrical screw connections”, teckentrup has developed a new washer – the NSK‐E. In the world of electrical engineering, loose screw connections lead to system failures and a high risk of damage occurring.

In practice, loose screw connections lead to different types of damage > Increased contact resistance Voltage drops/fluctuations (flickering) Heating of contact points until the contact point itself or surrounding equipment combusts. Contact connections that work loose cause significant damage, which calls for a new approach.

According to a survey by a Canadian energy supplier, almost 40% of all power failures can be traced back to loose contact parts. Today, locking elements from mechanical screw connections are very often used, which are only partially – or not at all – suitable for the specific require‐ ments of electrical screw connections. The reason we developed this new locking element for elec‐ trical screw connections was a production facility that came to a standstill because of an electrical screw connection that had worked loose. This led initially to increased contact resis‐ tance and then to a loss of voltage. teckentrup was not able to find a suitable screw locking element that would solve this problem over the long term, so it developed the NSK‐E – a lock washer that meets the specific requirements of electrical connections and the related standards.

CHARACTERISTICS AND REQUIREMENTS OF A SCREW CONNECTION IN ELECTRICAL APPLICATIONS The main task of an electrical connection is to transmit power. Quality factor ku is decisive for assessing the joint quality/screw connection quality. This represents the ratio between the resis‐ tance in the joint and the resistance in the busbar.

THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL SCREW CONNECTIONS RELEVANT CHARACTERISTICS

MECHANICAL

ELECTRICAL

Materials screwed

Steel and high-strength aluminium alloys (hard counter-support)

Copper/aluminium, as well as tin, silver and nickel coatings (soft counter-supports lead to increased settling phenomena and risk of splintering)

Main task/ installation situation

Force transmission, usually with Power transmission, very short longer clamping lengths clamping lengths

Load type

Axial force, dynamic cross loads Vibration, thermal expansion

Material combination

Copper/aluminium counter-supports and The counter-supports and steel connection elements lead to clampconnection elements are usually ing elements and joining elements exhibitmade of the same material ing different thermal expansion

torque-expo.com

The aim of a joint is therefore to ensure that the quality factor is kept as constant as possible over the course of its life. It is necessary to maintain soft conductor materials’ required contact pressure over the life of the joint, in order to keep the quality factor, and therefore the resistance, constant. To achieve stable contact pressure, a screw connection must fulfil two functions > 1. ELASTICITY FUNCTION The elasticity function is necessary because > Different thermal expansion coefficients and heavily fluctuating operating temperatures lead to varying mechanical tension in the screw connection. Settling processes must be compensated for. Settling is where the surfaces of connection elements level off. The number of joints and the soft conductor material compound matters in this respect. Due to the short clamping lengths, the elasticity required of the screw connection can only be achieved by flexible locking elements. 2. SCREW LOCKING ELEMENT FUNCTIONS When screws work loose as a result of vibration and lateral displacement, this can also lead to a reduction in the electrical screw connections’ contact pressure, and therefore the types of damage already described. Screw connection failure can have the following causes > Thermal expansion with different expansion coefficients, due to the use of different materials (steel, copper or aluminium). Settling within the joint. Vibration, for example at high frequencies or as a result of motion transmission from the overall system. Unsuitable spring and screw locking elements The 1990s saw examinations of the spring and screw locking effects of the elements in use at that time. As a result, the standards governing spring rings, serrated washers and toothed washers were withdrawn, meaning they therefore no longer represent the state of the art. The use of two screw locking elements, for example a spring ring and washer, similarly also does not meet the requirements.

A SOLUTION RESULTING FROM KNOWHOW + INNOVATION The company teckentrup GmbH + Co. KG set itself this challenge, and developed the NSK‐E detent‐edged washer especially for the electrical industry.

Thanks to the company’s many years’ experience in mechan‐ ical screw locking elements, teckentrup was able to react to the specific requirements and, as a result of appropriate test‐ ing methods, develop an optimum solution. In partnership with end users and external test labs, the NSK‐E was also successfully tested under extreme conditions. The test procedures it was subjected to include, among others, DIN 25201‐4 (Annex B), DIN 267‐26 and IEC 61373. The NSK‐E demonstrated outstanding performance in all quality inspections, meaning that the washer can be used as a locking element in accordance with most common standards: DIN 25201-3: DIN 46200: DIN 43673-1: DIN EN 50343: …

Electrical bolted joints Current-carrying connection bolts Screw connections for busbars Installation of cabling

The NSK washers are available in two variants: coated spring steel and stainless steel 1.4401. The washers are currently available in sizes M3–M16, and can be used in combination with conventional screws. CUSTOM-MADE PRODUCT Thanks to its arched shape, the NSK‐E has an especially pronounced spring effect, meaning the contact pressure, and therefore the joint’s connection resistance, can be kept virtu‐ ally constant over a long period of time.

The enhanced teeth on the top side ensure a positive‐locking fit with the bolt head/nut. This ensures the components cannot work loose when subjected to cross loads. And to prevent the soft connecting elements becoming damaged, the NSK‐E’s underside features a runner‐like contour. When fitted in a tightened screw joint, the washer lies on the counter‐ support, so that despite its short installation size, the risk of exceeding the surface pressure is reduced. In the NSK‐E, the user has at his or her disposal a one‐part screw locking element, made from spring steel or stainless steel, which has been especially developed to meet the require‐ ments of electrical screw connections, and which represents the state of the technological art. www.teckentrup.net

torque-expo.com

SPOTLIGHT ROTOR CLIP

FAQ > GET TO KNOW CIRCLIPS Everything you wanted to know about Circlips, but were afraid to ask > Some of the most frequently asked questions about circlips – answered... WHAT ARE CIRCLIPS AND WHERE ARE THEY USED? Circlips – also known as retaining rings and snap rings – are metal fasteners installed into a groove on a shaft or in a housing or bore to retain an assembly. They keep parts in place using a compact, lightweight design that requires fewer machining operations than other fastening techniques. Engineers specify circlips based on their installation and removal needs, rotational speed of the application, expected force loads on the ring, the conditions of the operating environment, and cost. Circlips can range in size from 1mm to 1m in diameter, and the potential combinations of size, shape, style, and material result in designs that work in a wide variety of industries and applica‐ tions. A standard automobile, for example, can have well over 50 circlips spanning systems from steering to power train to passen‐ ger safety. Circlips are used in myriad other applications includ‐ ing gym equipment, wind turbines, bearing retention, bicycles, door knobs, gas pumps, office equipment and more. WHAT CIRCLIP STYLES ARE AVAILABLE? Circlips can be sorted into three main categories by their design attributes. Tapered and constant section rings both describe a nearly complete circle with a gap between two free ends. Tapered‐section rings decrease in width from the top of the ring to the free ends. Installed, they make continuous contact within their installation groove. Some tapered‐section rings designed for axial installation feature lugs that make them easier to expand and place.

Constant section rings (snap rings), in contrast, have the same width throughout their circumference. The resulting stiffer cross section results in contact at three points within the instal‐ lation groove. These simple, easy‐to‐produce rings typically do not have lugs. Spiral rings are made from flat wire coiled two or three times around the circumference. They make 360° contact within their groove and have a constant width around their circumference. Spiral rings are not usually designed with installation lugs. Instead, they may have notched ends that aid in their removal. WHICH CIRCLIPS CAN HANDLE THE SPEEDS AND FORCES OF MY APPLICATION? When choosing a circlip, you will want to take the demands of your application into account. Some styles of tapered section rings available have significant radial spring force that can handle high RPM applications and high loads. However, some radially installed tapered‐section rings are not suited to high speeds or forces, so be sure to check each style’s ratings. Spiral rings also work well with high loads, especially in appli‐ cations where resilience to dynamic loading is needed. Spiral rings are generally considered to have lower RPM capabilities than tapered section rings. However, some designs, like spiral rings with patented locking features from Rotor Clip, keep the product tightly in place. Spiral rings are well balanced and are available in materials and styles ranging from light duty to heavy duty based on the force load you need to retain.

Circlips are also known as retaining rings and snap rings

torque-expo.com

SPOTLIGHT ROTOR CLIP Spiral rings are the most difficult to install and usually the best option for tamper-proofing

Though constant‐section rings (snap rings) are typically used in applications with lower load and speed requirements, do not overlook them. Several constant‐section styles are available that can bear significant loads at an attractive price point. WHICH RINGS MEET MY INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL REQUIREMENTS? Consider your preferred installation method and the frequency with which you’ll be installing and removing the rings. For instance, the lugs on axially installed tapered‐section rings make them easy to install and uninstall with commonly avail‐ able tools like circlip pliers. Keep in mind, designers must ensure they leave clearance for the lugs and room for the pliers to fit within the design. Constant‐section rings (snap rings) are manufactured to ensure a controlled edge condition on the mating surface for less wear from sharp edges. The absence of lugs gives this style a low clear‐ ance but requires a tapered mandrel or cone for installation. Spiral rings are also free of sharp edges. They are the most difficult to install, usually via a tapered mandrel or cone, but they have the lowest clearance of the three style types. Spiral rings are usually the best for tamper‐proofing; choose an end type that makes them quite difficult to remove. Or, for easier removal, choose an end type that renders the spiral rings easy to remove with a flat‐head screwdriver.

HOW DO THE COSTS AND AVAILABILITY OF CIRCLIPS VARY FROM STYLE TO STYLE? The cost and availability of each style of circlips may also play into your ultimate decision. The higher load and speed capabilities of a tapered section ring are balanced by its somewhat higher cost. Constant section rings can be a lower cost way to meet the performance requirements of a variety of applications. Spiral rings are widely available. Because spiral rings are coiled from flat‐wire, their manufacture requires less tooling than stamped parts. That makes it much faster and more cost effective to create spiral rings with custom sizes and shapes compared to other circlip styles. HOW CAN I ENSURE I AM CHOOSING THE RIGHT CIRCLIP FOR MY APPLICATION? Your application requirements, installation practices and budget are all factors to consider when choosing a circlip style. For a balanced review of your options, consider a manufac‐ turer, like Rotor Clip, which supplies a range of circlip styles. Visit Rotor Clip’s website www.rotorclip.com or schedule a consultation with its engineers to get help choosing the best circlip for your application. www.rotorclip.com

Most self-locking retaining rings cannot be removed once installed, giving you peace of mind along with a secure assembly

torque-expo.com

COMING THIS JULY-AUGUST

STRUCTURAL TIMBER FASTENERS Bolts, construction screws, joist screws and other connectors

TORQUE MAGAZINE’S JULY-AUGUST BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION SPECIAL Focusing on products, trends and services in structural timber fastening

Contact Harry Whyte for more details > harry.whyte@torque-expo.com or Landline > +49 6073 640201 Mobile > +49 172 6231 429

52-55 FOCUS - Nuts & Washers TOR055 June 2021.qxp 18/06/2021 15:58 Page 1

TORQUE FOCUS NUTS, WASHERS AND LOCKING SYSTEMS

Going nuts for fasteners Torque Magazine dives deeper into all things nuts, washers and locking systems, with help from HEICO, Growermetal, Güde, Owlett Jaton, Zago, and Industrial Nut…

HEICO – The challenge of bolt securing in difficult assembly conditions For sustainable and reliable protection against self-loosening of bolted joints resulting from dynamic loads and extreme vibrations, the HEICO Group has launched a variety of locking devices under the family brand name HEICO-LOCK®. Besides the wellknown wedge lock washers, numerous innovative product variants complement the HEICO-LOCK® programme. Bolts are not always easy and simple to assemble. In particular, bolted connections in confined spaces and hard-to-reach areas can be a challenge. Other factors that may complicate the bolting of components are requiring work at extreme height, bolting in overhead positions or situations that require prompt action under time pressure. The German manufacturer HEICO clearly recognised this and embarked on a process of constant improvement of its wedge lock washers. This resulted in innovative product solutions based on the wedge locking principle that guarantee users clear handling advantages. One of the most convenient bolt securing products, in terms of ease of handling, are the HEICO-LOCK® Combi-Washers. Like all products from this series, the combi-washers consist of a wedge lock washer pair, but in addition the HEICO-LOCK®

ZAGO – sealing fasteners One of the greatest advancements taking shape in Industry 4.0 is the ability to transform virtually any physical asset into a digital asset, enabling us to work, live and communicate from nearly anywhere in the world. Another benefit: the ability to learn, study and perform jobs in off-the-grid locations of the earth or in space, where we can send robots, unmanned drones, underwater cameras, and satellites equipped with sophisticated electronic instruments, in our place. However, sophisticated electronics equipment capturing information in treacherous terrain or in highly pressurised environments must be designed to withstand the harshest conditions. Environmental hazards, such as precipitation, water, ice, dirt, air, saltwater, bacteria, and moisture, can easily enter and damage the innermost part of sensitive electronic devices and circuit components - if they are not sealed properly. ZAGO sealing washers are uniquely engineered with a rubber element that forms a 360-degree air-tight, leakproof seal that will not crack under pressure. The seal is impenetrable, preventing contaminants from leaking into equipment and damaging it or leaking out and potentially harming the environment.

torque-expo.com

Combi-Washers are held together in the correct position by an internal TPE-ring. The radial teeth on the outer side of the washer pair embed themselves into the counter material when tightening the bolt. At the same time, the opposing wedge surfaces on the inner side preventing the bolt from loosening due to dynamic loads and vibrations. What makes the combi-washers most practical are the small tabs on the inner side of the TPE-ring. These enable the user to attach the combi-washers easily and conveniently to any commercial bolt before assembly. This means both hands are free for mounting the joint and to concentrate on the assembly itself – in every situation and position. The HEICO-LOCK® Combi-Washers are available with standard and broad outside diameters in sizes M8 to M16 – in both steel and stainless steel. Other dimensions and special materials are available upon request. As a special service, HEICO also offers its customers the option of purchasing the combi-washers pre-assembled with a suitable bolt, directly from the manufacturer. www.heico-group.com

52-55 FOCUS - Nuts & Washers TOR055 June 2021.qxp 18/06/2021 15:58 Page 2

HEICO FASTENING SYSTEMS

HEICO-LOCK® COMBI-WASHERS The efficient combined securing system for highly loaded bolted connections! n Quick and easy assembly n Combine with all commercially available bolts n Can be supplied as a pre-assembled part – ready made SEMS fastener without the associated costs n Permanent connection - ideal for ‘in the field’ maintenance ZAGO offers two types of sealing washers: pressure sealing washers and panel bushing sealing washers, the latter of which meets Milspec Mil-DTL-5423. Both pressure and panel bushing sealing washers are composed of a stainless-steel type 202/302/316 inner component. This inner component is encompassed by silicone rubber molding, which creates an unpassable, air-tight seal. In addition to being pressure resistant, ZAGO pressure sealing washers and panel bushing sealing washers provide excellent noise and vibration reduction. They are sustainable, reusable, and highly durable and engineered to withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions. ZAGO pressure sealing washers and panel bushing sealing washers are RoHS and REACH compliant and made in the U.S.A. at the factory headquarters in Newark, New Jersey. ZAGO sealing washers are sold worldwide. Contact your local fastener distributor or visit www.zago.com to build your part online. Have a question? Contact a ZAGO sealing washer specialist at info@zago.com.

n Available from M8 to M16

HEICO-LOCK® WEDGE LOCKING SYSTEMS High quality anti-vibration security for the most demanding of bolted joint applications!

www.zago.com

torque-expo.com

WWW.HEICO-GROUP.COM

CONTACT@HEICO-GROUP.COM

52-55 FOCUS - Nuts & Washers TOR055 June 2021.qxp 18/06/2021 15:59 Page 3

TORQUE FOCUS NUTS, WASHERS AND LOCKING SYSTEMS

Güde – Sperrkant Spring Washer in stainless steel 1.4401 / AISI 316 The market of spring washers has developed significantly in the past decades. Although some standards for spring washers have been withdrawn, the numbers in usage are still rising and the developments are technical driven. Most end users these days tend to use the washers in highly industrialised components and demanding infrastructure. The SPERRKANT SPRING WASHER by Güde is based on inhouse standards such as Bahn-Norm “BN 208012-06”, Siemens Norm “SN 60727”, Knorr-Bremse “N10178” or Class Norm “CN20-1104” to name a few. It already exists in the raw materials C60s, 38Si7 and 1.4310. The latest requirement was a SPERRKANT SPRING WASHER in stainless steel AISI 1.4401 / AISI 316. TECHNOLOGICAL LEAP FORWARD In the past, Güde has not only retrofitted its current machines but also invested in the latest technology, such as lasersupported continuous measurement of the raw-material. Adding the possibilities to shape and process the surface of the wire as per its own requirement, Güde are getting the perfect raw material for its washer, with a maximum level of flexibility. Even smaller batches, as the SPERRKANT SPRING WASHER in stainless steel 1.4401 is a market in growth, are possible. This achievement also leads to a smarter production for other products. More and more production lines are equipped with the laser-supported continuous measure-

ment. The level of manual work is reduced, and the group is able to run more machines in ghosts shifts. This leads to higher capacity with less scrap. ADVANTAGES FOR THE CUSTOMER The SPERRKANT SPRING WASHER in stainless steel 1.4401 / AISI 316 gives the user the advantages of the known product but also in highly demanding atmosphere. The double-sided pattern ensures the optimal form-lock joint has a positive locking effect and high degree of electrical current. The corrugated, springy shape brings continuous pressure and serves for the set compensation, so a non-loosening effect. www.guede.net

Owlett-Jaton Doubles its Stover Nuts Offering Due to an increase in customer requests, Owlett-Jaton have launched a whole new range of class 10 stover locking nuts to their portfolio, doubling the size of their stover nut offering. The bright zinc plated (BZP) DIN 980V nuts are available as standard in metric sizes ranging from M6 to M24 all stocked ready for next day delivery. DIN 980V stover nuts are an economical hexagon all-metal, prevailing torque, self-locking nut. The self-locking function is produced by having irregularly shaped threads at the top of the nut; these threads grip the corresponding bolt threads, giving a stronger hold. Advantages to this are that they can be reused, adjusted, and removed after installation - ideal for servicing or repairs. Stover nuts are resistant to shocks and vibration. Being all-metal means that they are ideal for heat environments.

torque-expo.com

They do not require any form of anti-vibration washer, improving efficiency and reducing inventory requirements. Stover nuts can be used in a vast range of applications and industries including automotive, agricultural equipment, and metalworking industries. The leading wholesale supplier has also increased its class 8 stover nut range, with the addition of an M24. The class 8 products are also available in sizes ranging from M6 to M24. The new products are available for free next day delivery, with low minimum order levels, across the majority of the UK mainland. Customers can also order online 24 hours a day, seven days a week via the NEW Owlett-Jaton website. www.owlett-jaton.com

52-55 FOCUS - Nuts & Washers TOR055 June 2021.qxp 18/06/2021 15:59 Page 4

Growermetal – Grower Tenkeep® a new member of Growermetal’s safety washer family Growermetal, an Italian company leader in the production of safety washers, has launched a new component to its wide range of products: The Grower Tenkeep®. Growermetal has been present in the production of washers for the automotive industry for many years and has built up the necessary experience and know-how to create a unique product on the market. The Grower Tenkeep® washer has been designed by Growermetal's R&D department with the aim of offering a new safety product able to ensure maximum performance against loosening of the bolted joints even in the presence of extreme vibrations and dynamic loads. The Grower Tenkeep® differs from the other washers thanks to the presence of knurls of different geometry on the two surfaces. Specifically: side A, also known as the 'boomerang' side, has serrations with saw-tooth section that slides against the surface of the underhead of the screw/nut when tightening the bolted joint, counteracting its loosening. This side of the washer also has a chamfer on the hole, providing the dual function of avoiding any interference with the radius under the screw head and allowing the user to orientate the washer correctly. Side B, on the other hand, has serrations with a triangular section that adheres firmly to the bearing surface during tightening and does not damage it. This special geometric design ensures that while the screw continues to rotate, the friction conditions are defined and uniform and therefore

the tightening torque to be applied in order to reach the required preload of the screw is independent from the material and the mechanical properties of the bearing surface. The Grower Tenkeep® safety washers guarantee the perfect grip of the bolted joint on all metallic materials with variable hardness ranging from 100 to 350 Hv and are manufactured by Growermetal in three different series: Medium series, ideal for hexagonal head bolts, Large series for flange-headed bolts and for bearing surfaces made of soft materials and Cylindrical series perfect for cylindrical head bolts. All production is tested in Growermetal's laboratories by means of a mechanical function test to verify that the untightening torque is at least 40% higher than the tightening torque. Paolo Cattaneo, Managing Director at Growermetal Srl, says: “We are always eager to innovation and Grower TenKeep is an example of this. We have received many positive feedbacks from our customers, and this makes us extremely proud because confirms that we have conceived a high-performance, quality product.” www.growermetal.com

Industrial Nut – Piston Rod Locknuts The infinite adjustment inherent in this style of locknut combined with the low bearing surface runout ensure proper axial loading for demanding applications. Locking effectiveness is maintained at temperatures up to 250°F thanks to the resiliency and “elastic memory” characteristics of the heat stablised Type 6/6 nylon insert components. The moulded, triple-radius design of the insert provides easy installation and the ability to withstand severe vibration while providing a leak-resistant seal between mating parts. The nylon insert locknut features predictable torque performance and is less subject to thread galling. Parts are available in metric thread sizes from M20 thru M120 or inch equivalent. www.industrialnut.com

torque-expo.com

BOLTED SAFETY In association with BOLTED Magazine, about bolting technologies. Read and subscribe at www.bolted.com

BRIDGE DESIGN IN THE AGE OF INDUSTRY 4.0 While Industry 4.0 is gaining traction in the manufacturing industry, the construction industry could also benefit. So how can 4.0 technology support engineers when designing and maintaining bridges?

ndustry 4.0 – also known as the fourth industrial revolution – is essentially the application of new digital technologies including automation, connectivity, Big Data, AI and machine learning to the manufacturing industry. The develop‐ ment of smart machines that can communicate with one another and act independently is expected to generate massive gains in productivity and efficiency. At the same time, data analytics will help design more efficient production processes and supply chains. However, while the concept is generally discussed in the context of the manufacturing industry, these changes and emerging technologies will inevitably impact the building and construction industries too. The way bridges are designed and built, in particular, could potentially benefit significantly from emerging technologies in a variety of ways. MORE THAN JUST A BRIDGE “In the future, Industry 4.0 will mean that a bridge will no longer only be a bridge and will deliver much more than just carrying traffic from one side to another,” says Professor Raid

// In the future, Industry 4.0 will mean that a bridge will no longer only be a bridge and will deliver much more than just carrying traffic from one side to another. //

torque-expo.com

Karoumi, Head of Division of Structural Engineering and Bridges at the KTH Royal Institute of Technology, in Stockholm, Sweden: “Because of all the sensors installed, it will be able to provide information on traffic loads, traffic density, vehicles speeds and pavement condition.” Karoumi has over 20 years’ experience in the field and is regularly an advisor to various construction projects in addi‐ tion to his work at KTH. From a very young age, he had been fascinated by bridges. He wrote his PhD thesis on the topic of dynamic modeling of suspension and cable‐stayed bridges. For him, one of the critical criteria for designing a bridge, in addition to safety and functionality, is maintainability and ensuring all critical components can be accessed for inspec‐ tion and replacement. “In newly built bridges, structural health monitoring can help study the behaviour of new materials or designs,” he says. “In existing bridges, one of its most important functions is the evaluation of remaining life. Suppose you have a structure with problems relating to fatigue, for example. In that case, you can try to understand the development of strains and variations

Nord-Lock’s Industry 4.0 product, the Load Sensing Tensioner (LST), in action in the lab

due to loading and use this information to more precisely calculate when you need to replace a component such as a steel beam or a connection.” SOLVING SERIOUS BOLT LOOSENING Recently, Nord‐Lock Group began trials of its new Superbolt Load‐Sensing Tensioner (LST) – one of the group’s first Indus‐ try 4.0 products – on a railway bridge in central Europe. The rail operator is experiencing bolt loosening on noise barriers on around 300 different bridges. This is due to aerodynamic loads caused by passing trains, which can be travelling up to 200 kph. Noise barriers on bridges in particular are an issue due to limited space for fasteners. Nord‐Lock Group, which was approached by a third‐ party to help develop a solution, saw this as an opportunity to test its new smart product. “The LST is essentially one of our Superbolt multi‐jackbolt tensioners (MJTs) with a connector on it for readout devices (wired or wireless) and a sensor mounted inside,” explains Pierre Kellner, Business Developer Smart Products and Services, Nord‐Lock Group. “We discovered that there is a correlation between the circumferential expansion of the Superbolt nut body and the amount of preload on the Super‐ bolt. The more preload the Superbolt has, the more its nut body expands. What the LST does is to measure this expansion, and since it correlates to the amount of preload, the expansion can be translated into preload values in kilonewtons.” AUGMENTED REALITY HELPED INSTALLATION The LST can measure preload at a frequency of 100kHz, and in tests has shown an accuracy of plus/minus 5% or better. As part of the trial, four LSTs were installed on a rail bridge and will deliver continuous measurements as each train passes. In order not to generate too much data, the frequency has been reduced to 600 Hz. The solution has enormous potential for reducing mainte‐ nance costs and service visits. “The customer will be able to

access the data from home on their computer and receive noti‐ fications if the preload on any of the joints deviates from a pre‐ defined amount,” adds Kellner. Another example of an Industry 4.0 solution, the installation of the LSTs was performed via augmented reality goggles since Covid‐19 restrictions prevented Kellner and his colleagues from traveling to the site. “We could see exactly the same things as the operator and could even point to things in their visual field,” he explains. “It didn’t matter that we were not there, and in fact, we almost did a better job because the goggles enabled us to record the whole session as well, so the operator did not need to take notes.” OPTIMAL AND SUSTAINABLE BRIDGE DESIGN While still in the early phases, Professor Karoumi anticipates seeing Industry 4.0 trends affecting bridge design and bridge building in several ways in the coming decades. This includes using greater automation to create more optimal and sustain‐ able bridge designs, using Big Data in Building Information Modeling (BIM), and using robots and drones for automated inspections. He also sees the potential for structural monitor‐ ing and vibration analysis. “Just like we have in our cars today, I think we will see sensors that will detect abnormalities and help with early maintenance,” he says. “In the future, when we buy a prefabri‐ cated component for a bridge, such as a beam or a hanger, these will already be instrumented at the factory with smart sensors that can continuously monitor its condition and warn when it’s time to replace or inspect it.” This article is taken from Nord-Lock Group’s white paper Bridge Design, Construction & Maintenance: Insights and Best Practices for a Rapidly Changing Sector (2021) To read and download the 70-page white paper, go to nordlock.com/bridge-construction www.nord-lock.com

torque-expo.com

SPOTLIGHT NISSEI

DOUBLE NUT INNOVATION >

PERFECT LOCK BOLT v2 NISSEI has developed a low-cost, anti-loosening bolt named PLB v2, a practical and effective bolt which doesn’t rely on friction. Now, NISSEI is beginning a new business model for selling small amounts of PLB v2 and/or licensing the production and/or usage of PLB v2...

e might think there are no tech‐ nical improvements left to be made on a bolt, but let's think again: what about the problem of loosen‐ ing? It is a fact of mechanical life that bolts loosen. Many techniques for keeping bolts tight have appeared. From the perspective of practical usage, cost‐effectiveness, and the ability to truly prevent loosening, making better bolts is an old but new problem. NISSEI invites you to look at their new solution, PLB v2. PLB v2 (Perfect Lock Bolt, version 2) relies on double nuts and multiple threads rolled onto a single shaft. PRINCIPLES AND FEATURES OF PLB v2 Here is one mechanical method to protect against loosening. Roll the lead of each bolt with two different threads, then add one nut to follow each thread. Because the inner nut's lead is bigger than the one for the outer nut, when vibration inevitably makes the nuts start to rotate loose, the inner nut will be blocked by the outer nut. This is because the lead followed by the outer nut is more closely packed, so the outer nut must rotate more slowly. This is mechanical blocking.

HIGH LOCK PERFORMANCE The lock bolt that NISSEI has developed and named PLB v2 has been tested and conforms to international standard ISO 16130. For the specified vibration criterion relative residual clamp force of 2,000 cycles, other companies' products received a rating of "Acceptable loss of clamp force," ISO16130 terms. They perform adequately from 85% at best to 40% of the time. PLB v2 is rated ISO 16130 "Good self‐locking behaviour," meaning performance is good 93% of the time. PRACTICALITY & EASE OF USE A major value of PLB v2 is, above and beyond its lock properties, its practicality in actual use. By tightening the outer nut, the inner nut is also tightened. You can tighten both nuts with one action. With ordinary double nuts, you need to tighten each nut individually. With PLB v2, the inner nut follows the outer nut naturally. It is like having to tighten only one nut instead of two. No PLB v2‐specific tools are required; ordinary tools do the job. Ease and practicality in usage are additional advantages of PLB v2.

DO YOU WANT TO BE A PLB v2 PRODUCER IN YOUR AREA? NISSEI isn't a bolt manufacturer but a machine manufacturer of cylindrical die form rolling machines. We can manufacture and sell PLB v2, but we have no experience in selling bolts. Therefore, it takes much preparation for sales development. To spread this safety and liability tech‐ nology worldwide as quickly as possible, we have decided to adopt a business model where we can receive small orders from users of PLB v2 (pricing includes royalty value) Bolt manufacturers can use the optional thread rolling dies option to buy thread rolling dies from us to manufacture PLB v2 in the same process as standard bolts with their existing production facilities. Therefore, there is no need to introduce new machinery and reduce your initial costs. For further discussion, contact the author at NISSEI in Japan or visit the PLB v2 website. www.nisseiweb.co.jp/e/products.php?p age=plbv2

// By tightening the outer nut, the inner nut is also tightened. Both nuts, one action. //

PLB v2 PRINCIPLE PLB v2 bolt combines a single thread and multiple threads... Multiple threads nut Big advancement by one rotation

torque-expo.com

Single threads nut Small advancement by one rotation

THE MOST POWERFUL LOCKBOLT

PLB v2

WE ARE LOOKING FOR USERS TO SUPPLY SAMPLES OF PLB v2. PLEASE TAKE A LOOK AT PLB v2 AND EXPERIENCE THEM FOR YOURSELF...

PLB v2 PRINCIPLE PLB v2 bolt combines a single thread and multiple threads...

Relative residual clamp force [%]

ISO 16130 EVALUATION EXPLAINED 110 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

Good self-locking behaviour

85%

Multiple threads nut Big advancement by one rotation

Single threads nut Small advancement by one rotation

Acceptable loss of clamp force

40% Poor self-locking behaviour 0

500

1000

1500

MAIN FEATURES

2000

Number of load cycles Standard bolt and nut – lost clamp force (0%) at 300 ± 100 load cycles.

Easy installing, by tightening only the outer nut. Reduction of maintenance cost by high anti-loosening performance. Low price by thread rolling.

READY NOW PLB v2 thread hread rolling dies Meets ISO 16130 30 0 requirements att vel the highest level

LOOKING FORWARD TO RECEIVING Y YOUR ORDER OR REQUEST FROM:

END USER BOLT MANUFACTURER SCREW DISTRIBUTORS AND TRADING COMPANIES PLEASE CHECK THE O ONLINE PAGE “PLB V2”.

Scan QR CODE for additional information on the PLB v2

NISSEI CO., LTD. 2022 Torisawa | Tomihama-machi | Otsuki-shi Yamanashi | Japan 409-0502

Email enquiries: plb_bolt@nisseiweb.co.jp

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION ETA AND ACCREDITATIONS

WHEN ONLY ETA WILL DO From large load metal anchors and heavy-duty stainless steel anchors to wedge locking technology and wooden nails – we’ve got them all in our ETA and accreditations round-up…

LIGNOLOC COLLATED WOODEN NAILS FOR INDUSTRIAL USE. NEXT STEP… ETA The collated nail made of wood by Austrian manufacturer BECK is heading for the big stage. After receiving the German general construction technique permit in 2020, BECK applied for the European technical approval for LIGNOLOC®. Wooden nails are not yet covered by a standard. Therefore, BECK conducted extensive tests and complex calculation models to meet the expectations of the expert committee. General Manager Christian Beck says: “The German technical approval makes our vision of sustainable building with sustainable fasten‐ ing systems even more tangible. It is the official confirmation that this is not just a crazy abstract idea, but a completely well‐ thought‐out and marketable concept. For us, it represents the first major step out of the niche towards the mass market.”

// The German technical approval makes our vision of sustainable building with sustainable fastening systems even more tangible. //

torque-expo.com

LIGNOLOC is reportedly the first collated wooden nail for future‐oriented use in industrial production and in ecological wood processing. The German technical approval enables the planning, design and execution of load‐bearing connections in timber frame construction. Planks and panels made of solid timber, wood‐based materials or gypsum fibre can be attached to wood building materials using LIGNOLOC wooden nails. In addition, connections can be made with LIGNOLOC to produce bracing and load‐bearing wall diaphragms. According to BECK, the approval for the Euro‐ pean Technical Approval (ETA) is expected in autumn 2021. www.beck-lignoloc.com

// The fresh range consists of nine models with different heads in a wide selection of metrics, diameters and lengths. //

TH/TF METAL ANCHORS > THE NEW IN-HOUSE MANUFACTURED RANGE FROM INDEX INDEX A Perfect Fixing has started the year with a new catalogue and an extensive offering of fresh products featuring the new range of TH/TF metal anchors for large loads. The range consists of nine models with different heads in a wide selection of metrics, diameters and lengths. There are two types of coatings available: Zinc‐plated and Atlantis C3‐H, a special coating offering the best protection against corrosion in category C3 atmospheres in accor‐ dance with the ISO 9223 standard. Reinforcing INDEX’s commitment to offering quality products, the new range is approved under the strictest quality standards: • Approved (ETA 20/0046) in option 1 for installation in cracked and non‐cracked concrete (C20/25‐C50/60). • Approved (ETA 20/0494) for non‐structural redundant systems in concrete (C20/25) and hollow‐core slabs (≥ C30/37). • Approved for fire resistance R30‐R120 in concrete. The anchor can be installed with reduced distances between anchors and at the edge of the concrete element, because it uses mechanical interference between the thread and the base mate‐ rial to generate a smaller load on the concrete. The anchor can

be installed with just a drill and an impact driver, significantly reducing and simplifying installation time. It is not necessary to clean the holes in vertical installations and in roofs and/or floors. It can also be unscrewed for correct adjustment and up to three approved screw‐in depths. Once installed it is easily removable, making it a good solution for temporary installations. CHARACTERISTICS AND ADVANTAGES INCLUDE > • Optimised threads to guarantee maximum loads. • Removable anchor. • Approved for cracked and non‐cracked concrete. • Seismic C1&C2 assesment and fire resistance R30‐R120. • It is not necessary to clean the holes in vertical installations (ceiling and floor). • It can be unscrewed for correct adjustment. • Up to three screw‐in depths. • High protection against corrosion (ATLANTIS C3‐H version). • Available in a complete range of diameters. • Screwed with impact power tool. www.indexfix.com/promoth/index-pt.html

torque-expo.com

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION ETA AND ACCREDITATIONS NORD-LOCK AND THE INDUSTRY’S FIRST FULL LIFETIME WARRANTY Nord‐Lock Group says its products are used when safety really matters. Quality assurance is of the highest importance across its range of bolting solutions, securing the integrity of mechanical systems that play such a critical role. Therefore, meticulous design, rigorous testing and thorough accreditation ensures that robust and trusted products are supplied to the many different industries that choose Nord‐Lock Group’s solutions to secure thousands of different applications. Nord‐Lock’s original wedge‐locking washers are used to secure bolted joints exposed to severe vibration and dynamic loads. They've been produced to the highest specifications and quality standards for almost 40 years. In use, they simply won’t loosen. Even in the most critical application, Nord‐Lock wedge‐locking technology will sustain the preload and this is proven by Junker tests, according to DIN 65151, DIN 25201‐4 and ISO 16130. Nord‐Lock steel construction (SC) washers are more specifi‐ cally designed for applications across the construction and bridge‐building industry, promising among the highest corrosion resistance in the market. They are tested to at least 1,000 hours in the Neutral Salt Spray Test according to ISO 9227. According to Frank Götz, EMEA industry manager for building and infras‐ tructure at Nord‐Lock Group, some engineers hesitate to use them for fear they do not meet the exacting standards of Euro‐ pean construction regulation (EN 1090‐2). But in fact, Nord‐Lock washers do meet these standards, while also increasing safety and decreasing life cycle cost. Consistency is what sets Nord‐Lock washers apart, the group says. Each unit is laser marked with the Nord‐Lock brand name, control number and a type code. This guarantees that customers receive genuine Nord‐Lock washers and enables full traceability down to the first assembly. “You can trust our products, which is why we introduced the industry’s first full lifetime warranty,” says Nord‐Lock CEO Fredrik Meuller. “This guarantees that our wash‐ ers will stay in place and fulfill their function for the entire lifetime of the bolted connection.” ETA Approvals: Nord‐Lock SC‐washers have been rigorously tested and approved by independent institutes as well as certifica‐ tion authorities. They are safe to use with high‐strength structural bolting assemblies for preloading and are confirmed for HV‐assem‐ blies by the European Technical Assessment ETA‐20/0010 issued by the German Institute for Construction Technology (DIBt).

SC‐washers, NLO, NLSS and 254 SMO® are safe to use in non‐ preloaded structural bolting assemblies according EN 15048 and confirmed by the ETA‐19/0813 issued by the DIBt. SUMMARY OF NORD-LOCK CERTIFICATES AND APPROVALS • European Technical Assessment ETA-19/0813 > Nord-Lock washer for non-preloaded bolting assemblies. • European Technical Assessment ETA-20/0010 > Nord-Lock SC washer for preloaded bolting assemblies. • EBA 21.51-21izbia/030-2101#025-(038/18-ZUL) > NLXsp for railway-specific applications. • EBA 21.51-21izbia/030-2101#026-(039/18-ZUL) > NLSC for railway-specific applications. • EBA 21.51-21izbia/030-2101#027-(040/18-ZUL) > NL and NLX for cyclic loaded railway-specific applications. • Corrosion resistance 1,000-hour salt spray test according to ISO 9227. Learn more about Nord‐Lock Group’s certificates and approvals by visiting www.nord‐lock.com and finding your nearest local contact. Experts at Nord‐Lock Group promise to give full attention to customer needs and solving the bolting challenges that their customers face. www.nord-lock.com

// You can trust our products, which is why we introduced the industry’s first full lifetime warranty, //

torque-expo.com

THE HAPAX WOOD SCREW > IDEAL FOR EVERY SITUATION Hapax says you don’t have to look far for the reasons why its wood screw is so popular with professionals. They owe their popularity with quality craftsman to their low screw‐in torque combined with a high screw‐in speed, so working with Hapax wood screws saves time. These quality and patented wood screws are designed by pgb‐Europe based on years of experience and are produced and packaged with strict quality requirements. In addition, the environmentally‐friendly BlueTop coating provides an extra corrosion resistance which is up to 10 times higher than conven‐ tional galvanisation. That’s not to mention that these screws have successfully obtained a European Technical Assessment (ETA). What makes these screws really unique is the patented “triple thread point” and the equally patented unique geometry of the countersunk milling segment under the head of the screw. The “triple thread point” ensures that the screw grips the wood quickly and holds it firmly when being screwed in due to its low insertion point. This guarantees that the screw is highly suited for use in demanding applications (such as a timber frame construction) and reduces the risk of splitting the wood to a minimum. The specially shaped milling ribs under the head sink into the wood easily and blocks on metal without damaging it. When you combine the “triple thread point” and the countersunk milling ribs with an opti‐ mised thread, these elements ensure a low tightening torque with‐ out compromising the high pull‐out value. With the Hapax screws, you build on a number of strong advantages: a solid and high‐qual‐ ity fastening and a pure gain in time.

The unique BlueTop coating offers up to 10 times more corro‐ sion resistance in a neutral salt spray test than traditional galvani‐ sation. This makes the screw ideal for use in open constructions without direct exposure to the elements, such as under carports or pergolas. As a result, the screws meet the requirements of service class II according to Eurocode 5. The BlueTop coating is free of chromium VI and meets all the requirements of REACH / ROHS. This ensures that the environmental impact during production and recycling is reduced to a minimum. As mentioned before, the Hapax wood screws have recently obtained an ETA. www.hapax-europe.com

JCP FIXINGS EXPANDS ITS CERTIFIED OFFERING WITH STAINLESS STEEL Specialist fixings brand JCP has continued to grow its range with the addition of over 35 new stainless steel lines. Introducing new products to the range underlines JCP’s commitment to mirroring the ever‐changing demands of the construction industry, and ulti‐ mately the needs of its customers. The new additions include stainless steel A4‐316 heavy‐duty anchors, now available as a hexagon bolt, and countersunk versions. All sizes in both types are CE certified, and ETA (Option 1) certified, substantiating their use in cracked and non‐cracked concrete, C20/25 to C50/60. They are approved for use under seismic actions C1 and C2 and offer high tension and shear resis‐ tance. Both are resistant to fire exposure of 30‐120 minutes, with a fire classification of A1, meaning they will not contribute to the fire. The additions feature a compression ring which helps prevent turning and stop torque slippage, whilst a three‐part expansion sleeve allows for smaller spacings and edge distance with high loads. These two new types line up with the existing stud and nut type of A4‐316 heavy‐duty anchor, which features the same criteria. The A4‐316 stainless steel body enables heavy‐ duty anchors to be used in interior and exterior applications, including marine environments. A full range of CE certified and ETA (Option1) certified A4‐316 throughbolts have also been introduced. Suitable for use in cracked and non‐cracked concrete over C20/25, these through‐ bolts are also approved for use under seismic actions C1 and C2, and come with a fire classification of A1, meaning that they are resistant to fire exposure of 30‐120 minutes.

Although applying for an ETA is voluntary, as a leading special‐ ist construction fixings supplier, JCP often deems this vital, irre‐ spective of how complex, time‐consuming and costly the process may be. This certification demonstrates that the fixing has been rigorously tested, confirms its quality, and provides reassurance that it will meet or surpass market expectations. To meet the demanding needs of the construction industry, JCP’s products are subject to this independent performance assessment to allow for the addition of a CE mark. With recent changes in regulations and increased awareness regarding the impact of fire on fixings, an ETA can assist in determining the correct selection. It will also help to provide grounds when decid‐ ing whether or not the product is to be used on construction projects, both big and small. JCP has been committed to obtaining ETAs for over 25 of its structural ranges, and supplies a wide variety of approved prod‐ ucts from chemical anchors to metal fixings. JCP products are available for free next day delivery, with low minimum order levels, across the majority of the UK mainland. www.owlett-jaton.com www.jcpfixings.co.uk

torque-expo.com

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION ETA AND ACCREDITATIONS ETA CERTIFIED TIMBER ENGINEERING SCREWS BY HSI HSI GmbH is a German medium‐sized company headquartered in Iserlohn, which supplies extensive assortments to wholesalers and building markets. In addition to the distribution of sales articles in technology and furniture fittings or wood and deck construction, HSI's core business is the planning and realisation of innovative and customised sales shelves. HSI is known for quality and reliability.

// Depending on the area of application, the company supplies screws made of different materials and coatings and can identify a wide range of these with ETA certification. // As a building material, timber continues to prove its environ‐ mental and structural strengths and is becoming more and more important. Because a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, high‐quality fasteners are of great importance. This requires fasten‐ ing systems with special properties and functionalities. Screws have established themselves as solid timber connectors that provide optimal material connections if they are of the right quality.

torque-expo.com

In addition to individual product presentations, HSI offers corresponding sales articles, including screws for timber construction. Depending on the area of application, the company supplies screws made of different materials and coatings and can identify a wide range of these with ETA certification. Reduced splitting effect, good resistance to mechanical loading and fast and easy installation are, for example, properties of wood construction screws on which HSI focuses. The screws certified by ETA‐19/0564 are perfectly designed for load‐bearing timber constructions between components made of solid wood, glulam, laminated veneer lumber or similar bonded wood materials and can be used for a wide range of applications. The advantages of using HSI screws are mainly that high extraction resistance and extremely strong joints are created. High quality products are fundamental. Thus, compliance with legal and official requirements within an economic framework is a top priority for HSI. For this reason, a large number of its wood construction screws are identified with an ETA certification. The quality management of the company is certified by DIN ISO 9001, which means that all products are submitted to strict controls and fulfill the corresponding DIN ISO specifications as well as the building inspectorate approvals. For more information and technical details about the ETA certi‐ fied timber engineering screws and other products from HSI, visit www.schwerter.de

SFS’ NEW MDC AND MXC

SFS Group is revolutionising the fastening of sandwich panels onto concrete with its ETA‐Approved direct fixing solutions MDC and MXC. Both MDC and MXC fasteners provide high pull‐over values due to their big flange diameter. The sealing washer in combination with the double support thread assures what SFS says is a perfect sealing function. Both screw anchors enable a substantial overall cost saving due to less fasteners and installation time needed. Different important key features could be combined during the development of both concrete screw anchors. The asymmetrical thread with larger effective surface area in concrete as well as the optimised concrete thread leads to a load bearing capacity increase. The bigger outer diame‐ ter at the load‐bearing part of the fastener ensures a better under‐ cut in concrete and enables an easy insertion. The new generation of screw anchors MDC and MXC is distin‐ guished by greater efficiency, supe‐ rior strength and a wider range of applications. Both screw anchors can be installed close to edges without the use of a torque wrench. For applications in aggressive atmospheric environments, the MXC in stainless steel A4 can be used. Both fasteners can be installed with different embed‐ ment depths and provide more flexibility for the customers as well as an ETA‐Approval (ETA‐ 20/0115) with outstanding values for the customers. www.sfs.biz

torque-expo.com

torque-exp o.com

What you may have missed in Torque Magazine’s ENHANCED digital editions... MAY 2021

http://bit.ly/Torque-issue54

TEST gmbH > SETTING NEW STANDARDS A truer test for bolted connections from TesT

TAIWAN > Raw materials, fastener costs & increasing output

CASE STUDY > In addition to our six print magazines (and PDF replica), four completely separate issues are purely ENHANCED digital editions. With increasing business-to-business trade being conducted online, Torque magazine‘s ENHANCED digital editions harness best practice in digital and links readers directly to B2B sites, websites, web shops, digital catalogues and more – providing a useful tool to readers and stakeholders.

Industrial supplies merchant Broadbent readies for post-Covid growth with OGL

FOCUS > Structural fasteners BRALO, Owlett-Jaton, APTUS & Rivetwise share their structural fastener insights

Circulated worldwide, Torque Magazine’s ENHANCED Digital editions offer readers new and engaging interactive features.

To subscribe to Torque Magazine visit: https://torque-expo.com/subscribe/ or scan this QR code...

Have you missed any of our previous enhanced digital editions? Head to www.torque-expo.com/magazines for our back catalogue of ENHANCED digital editions.

What’s next... OCTOBER 2021 FOCUS > Rivets, rivet tools and rivet technology FOCUS > Plugs, plasterboard and cavity fixings FOCUS > Janitorial supplies > Wipes, cleaners, sprays, etc

DECEMBER 2021 STUTTGART SPECIAL New products, services and interviews from Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2021

@Torque

Expo

Torque E x

@torque

expo

SPOTLIGHT OBTEC

OBTEC’S STOCK PROGRAMME OF WELDING STUDS MASSIVELY EXPANDED

BTEC GmbH, a subsidiary of the globally operating OBO Better‐ mann Group, is among the lead‐ ing European quality manufacturers of welding studs. In the past, the company from Menden in the Sauerland region has mostly produced to order at the request of customers. In order to counteract the scarce supply of raw materials, it ensured in the first half of the year that almost the entire catalogue range of welding studs in accordance with the DIN EN ISO 13918 standard (types “PT” and “Short Cycle”) were available from stock. Sales manager Stephan Wennrich explains: “Our customers depend on a short‐term supply of fasteners. Therefore, we immediately took a risk at the beginning of 2020 and ramped up our production to get our warehouses full. It was foreseeable that the availability of materials would become more difficult from Q3.”

From externally threaded bolts to internally threaded bolts to flat connec‐ tors, almost all variants are available immediately. And even if the finished bolt is not in stock, there are at least semi‐finished products available that can be finished. Wennrich says: “We always want to be able to react quickly and flexibly to the coveted internal thread bolts. Accordingly, we have pre‐ pressed blanks in various lengths, which only have to be provided with internal threads afterwards.” OBTEC is sure this strategy will also help it get through the tradition‐ ally somewhat difficult summer months. “Our customers can depend on us to be able to supply them reli‐ ably with our standard programme,” Wennrich concludes. www.obtec.eu

Quality welding studs

OBTEC GmbH

Hüingser Ring 52 58710 Menden Germany

Tel.: +49 (0)2373 89-1166 Fax: +49 (0)2373 89-1238 info@obtec.eu

www.obtec.eu

market

THIS IS A ‘TOTAL RESET’ The recent home and garden boom has not simply been a reaction to ‘having nothing else to do’ during lockdown, but has been an acceleration of trends already in evidence… Will Jones, Chief Operating Officer of the British Home Enhancement Trade Association (BHETA), discusses a reset for society.

HETA is a significant source of market data including actuals, forecasts and trend predictions. Its market data partner, GlobalData has just published the results for the first quarter of 2021 in the DIY and garden sector, together with its updated forecasts for the year. Meanwhile its trend forecast‐ ing partner, Scarlet Opus has supplied its interpretation – beyond the pandemic – of the reasons why things are happen‐ ing as they are, and some of the implications for suppliers and retailers. It is at once reassuring, exciting and salutary to see that the two significantly different types of research share many similar views and conclusions. From the GlobalData report it is clear that the expansion in the DIY and garden sectors continues apace. For DIY Q1 was another stellar quarter as UK consumers continued to look to improve their homes, amid the national lockdown. One of the major beneficiaries of this was the combined presence of B&Q and Screwfix with B&Q’s Q1 – ending 30 April 2021 – seeing total sales increasing by 82.7%, with its UK & Ireland like‐for‐ like sales over February, March and April growing 21.5%, 58.6% and 132.8%, respectively. Overall, the value of the DIY market in Q1 was £2,008M, a growth of 11.4% YOY, with further growth for the year predicted at a further 3.4, and the tools sector likely to rise further by £4.5%. The garden and outdoor category showed growth of 5.5% in Q1 rising to a predicted 5.7% for the year. Its current value is £876M. Combined with the continued strength of the housing market, aided by the extension of the stamp duty holiday, this is a strong picture for tools and fixings, perhaps only under‐ mined by the strained supply of building materials, such as timber and concrete. GlobalData’s report indicates the potential threat that this could pose for the big heavyside projects. The overall take however is a positive one of continued success. Maybe not at the sky‐rocketing pace we have been seeing, but with ongoing growth for the sector throughout the coming year. Turning to the underlying reasons behind the numbers, it was interesting to see the Scarlet Opus view of the coming two to three years and its analysis of how the world has changed. Analysing the home and garden‐centric consumer behaviours which have impacted on our industry, and which were

torque-expo.com

Industrial Bolting Special Metals and Alloys Over 150 Material Grades 10,000 Ton Inventory Over 300 Machines We Service All Quantities Serving Distributors Worldwide

brought into sharp focus by lockdown, its contention is that they were not simply reactions to having ‘nothing else to do’ but a massive acceleration of trends already starting to be in evidence. In other words, a fundamental ‘reset’ in society’s valuation of what is important. According to the trend fore‐ casters, far from being just a ‘lockdown boom’, home and garden will remain a priority area of spend.

// Home and garden will remain a priority area of spend. // Continued home working, continued uncertainty and a signif‐ icant speeding up of concerns about sustainability, the environ‐ ment and climate change will ensure that the focus on maintaining and improving territory and living space will remain at the top of the agenda. This is likely to be at the expense of fast fashion, disposability and impulse travel. It will mean that those who have income and potentially savings will spend a significant proportion on their own immediate environment. The physical and mental wellbeing benefits have been shown to be considerable. A confident new generation of DIYers and gardeners has been empowered. Creativity, repair, recycling and self‐reliance remain market drivers. Home socialising will foster continual improvement of indoor and especially outdoor space. All of which is good news for tools and fixings suppliers and retailers. I appreciate the current challenges created by logistic and supply chain issues, rising raw materials prices and legisla‐ tive change, but it is at least reassuring to know that home improvement, garden and building industries are all providing opportunities and will continue to do so. For more information about BHETA and its market data, lobbying, networking, and business support opportunities, contact Helen Farnell in BHETA Member Services at hf@bheta.co.uk or 0121 237 1130.

torque-expo.com

24-7 Emergency Service www.GoASF.com

info@GoASF.com

2021 FEATURES JULY/AUGUST (print)

OCTOBER (enhanced digital)

Women in fasteners special > North America QC laboratory focus Oils, sprays and lubricants PREVIEW > International Fastener Expo PREVIEW > Taiwan International Fastener Show Building & Construction > Structural timber fasteners and connectors TERRITORY FOCUS > Netherlands & Benelux

SEPTEMBER (print) Fastener manufacturing special Stainless steel fixings and fasteners Torque tools (torque wrenches, etc) Workwear, PPE and safety Building & Construction > Anchors Fastener Fair Stuttgart preview 1 PREVIEW > Fastener Fair USA TERRITORY FOCUS > China

Rivets, rivet tools and rivet technology Plugs, plasterboard and cavity fixings Janitorial supplies > Wipes, cleaners, sprays, etc Fastener Fair Stuttgart preview 2

NOVEMBER (print) C-parts, logistics and Kanban Connected & smart tools Automotive fasteners & tools Surface treatment Building & Construction > Adhesives, tapes, sealants and fillers Turkish manufacturing

DECEMBER (enhanced digital) STUTTGART SPECIAL New products, services and interviews from Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2021

REGULAR FEATURES WOMEN IN FASTENERS & TOOLS BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION APPRENTICE Q&A’S NEW TORQUE TESTED

Submit an article or idea for consideration to jonathon@torque-expo.com

DIRECTORY SPOTLIGHTS CRC Industries UK Ltd. I Lubricants I Anti-Corrosion & Paints I Degreasers & Cleaners I Metal Working I Made in the UK T +44 (0)1278 727272 E sales.uk@crcind.com W www.actioncan.com

SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY TO PROMOTE YOUR PRODUCTS TO OVER 12,000 INDUSTRY DECISION MAKERS Torque Directory offers a cost-effective platform to promote your business all year round in both print and digital issues of Torque Magazine (published 10 times a year, reaching an audience of over 12,000 international decision makers), as well as online at torque-expo.com.

KARAT INDUSTRIAL CORPORATION I Hand Rivet Tools I Hand Rivet Nut Tools I Air-Hydraulic Rivet Tools I Air-Hydraulic Rivet Nut Tools I Rivet Nuts and Blind Rivets

CALL +44 (0) 1727 739 160 FOR MORE DETAILS

KARAT is a professional manufacturer of Rivet Tools. Hand Tools offer One Year Warranty, all Air-Hydraulic Rivet Tools have CE Certification – certified by German TÜV Rheinland. Strong R&D, advanced Lab, strict QA plus the renowned customers in USA and Europe make KARAT Tools enjoy “German Quality yet Taiwan Price” reputation.

T +886 – 2 – 8990 1800 E Sales@KaratTool.com W www.KaratTool.com

STAHLWILLE Eduard Wille GmbH & Co. KG I Torque Tools, Torque Testers I Spanners I Screwdrivers I Factory & workshop equipment I and more

PROFESSIONAL TOOL SOLUTIONS STAHLWILLE stands for innovative tools that are “Made in Germany”. Intelligent torque technology and tool systems, high-grade tightening tools and bespoke solutions for tool storage by STAHLWILLE are in daily use in such fields as the aerospace, transport and energy sectors and industry generally.

T +49 202 4791-0 E info@stahlwille.de W www.stahwille.de

Special print editorial exposure (Profile) included as part of the Directory package. COST: Only £500 / $650 / €650 for the year

Action Can is the leading professional, trade, and engineering brand of maintenance solutions from CRC Industries. Developed, manufactured, and trusted for over 60-years; Action Can AC-90 MultiPurpose Lubricant is a firm favourite for engineers who demand professional performance and right first-time results. All products in the Action Can range are manufactured in UK and European facilities with total quality control and ISO 9001 compliance. Discover why Action Can products are “Tested, Trusted, Approved” throughout the world.

WPI Services BV I Packaging machines I Weighing machines I Counting machines I Packaging lines I Inspection machines T +31 703 067 100 E info@weighpack.nl W weighpackinternational.com

Weighpack in The Netherlands is the specialist in development and production of inspection, weighing and counting machines as well as complete packaging lines for fasteners and other technical products. From 1974 Weighpack is providing heavy duty and highquality custom build packaging lines, therefore our machines guarantee reliability and safety.

Torque Magazine Issue 55

Articles inside

TOOLS MADE IN GERMANY

WOMEN IN FASTENERS

TERRITORY FOCUS > ITALY