TORQUE Magazine – Issue 067 2022 by stagpublications

Come meet us at the Eisenwaremesse! Booth Hall 11.2 Stand O019 Manufacturer & distributor • Insulation plugs • ETA approved bolts • Mechanical anchors • Woodscrews • And much more... issue 67 / September–October 2022

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES

From two base products in 1965 to currently over two hundred twenty, ND continues its tradition of cutting edge research and development with the regular introduction of unique materials along with competitive brand offsets.

APPLICATORAUTHORIZED

A high temperature, high pressure thread sealant which withstands up to 40MPa. Offering thread locking breakaway torques greater than 20Nm and a maximum temperature of 428°F (220°C). Thermoseal is an extremely versatile product for challenging sealing conditions.

Did you know that ND is an approved 3M applicator? Further proof why ND should be your one stop shop for pre-applied fasteners.

High strength encapsulated epoxy threadlocker for use in electrical systems where low halogen materials are necessary. Contains small micrometer microcaps which reduce material extrusion on installation.

global market with divisions across the continental U.S., Taiwan, and licensees around the world. ND’s core business revolves around the application of a wide variety of materials onto fasteners and assemblies to aid in functions such as locking, sealing, masking, lubricating, and noise and vibration dampening. ND also manufactures a line of bottled products under the Vibra-Tite® brand name for MRO and retail use.

ND’s highest temperature chemical threadlocker. Initially performs like a vibration dampening compound. Once temperatures reach 750°F (400°C), a secondary activation begins, causing the fastener to be permanently locked in place. Tested to over 1500°F (850°C).

ELECTROLOC®THERMOSEAL™THERMOLOC®1500 • Customer Service Driven • Vertically Integrated • Innovative Products • Global Presence

Since 1955 ND Industries has specialized in the development of innovative materials and processes which increase the safety and reliability of fastener NDassemblies.servesa

info@ndindustries.comwww.ndindustries.comwww.vibra-tite.com

An advanced anti-galling and lubricating thread coating designed to extend the life of bolts up to 15 times while under intense torque and high friction loads. Helps to ensure consistent clamp load. Works well on stainless steel fasteners.

A unique pre-applied microencapsulated expanding threadlocking & sealing compound. Increases in volume 20-50% on installation, penetrating the gaps in fastener threads typically unfilled by conventional threadlockers.

This pre-applied threadlocker consists of separated epoxy hardener and expoxy resin. Upon fastener installation, the two materials mix and activate. When fully cured, EpoxyLock provides greater breakaway torque than conventional nylon fastener locking devices.

Extruded ND Mastics are pre-applied to fasteners (threaded or non-threaded), bound for e-cote cycles. Heat from the process causes the material to expand, sealing large leak paths between fastener and assembly.

An acrylic-based sealing material which is applied to the underhead of the fastener. SealTek’s robust seal replaces the need for O-rings, gaskets, or sealing washers.

Prevents galvanic corrosion in assemblies with dissimilar metals, such as aluminum, and steel, by electrically isolating the fastener. Specially bonded to the fastener, ND Galvanic Patch is durable, chemical resistant, and non-conductive.

THREAD ARMOR® VC

EPOXY-LOCK®

EXPAND-A-LOCKNUTS®EXPAND-A-SLEEVE™SEALTEK™We’re at Booth #1215 LAS VEGAS, U.S.A.

Highest temperature pre-applied nylon threadlocker in the industry. Unlike the competition, ND’s application process requires only 120°C, preventing plating damage. However, once crosslinked, it can withstand temps up to 260°C. Meets MIL-DTL-18240F / QPL-18240.

THREAD ARMOR® GP ND PATCH® HI-TEMP

Email: info@torque-expo.com Web: www.torque-expo.com

Rachel rachel@torque-expo.comKing

For my money, the move had to be made at one time or another, particularly when you’re talking about the fast moving product world. But it comes at a cost. I’ve seen Screwfix catalogues in hands and homes and there is a branding advantage printed catalogues give you that digital struggles to replicate.

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

of the Editor or of Stag Publications Ltd. Copyright Entire contents copyright © 2022 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.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

The world has been wrestling with the transi tion to digital, including B2B fastener suppliers. By most logical measures, printed catalogues should be a thing of the past. How can they compete with digital catalogues that can be constantly updated with current prices and accessed almost anywhere in the world? And the environmental case grows ever more vital.

06 NEWS

Published by

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12 WOMEN IN FASTENERS > ALESSANDRA FASOLO, CARLO SALVI

ACTIVELY EXPANDING ITS PRODUCT LINES AND FRESHLY RE-LOCATED TO ANEW STRATEGIC AREA, PGB-POLSKA EXPLAINS HOW IT IS BETTER SERVING ITS CUSTOMERS

92 FOCUS

Designers

Publisher

Dan victoria@torque-expo.comVictoriadan.bennett@torque-expo.comBennettArellano

Stag Publications Ltd

Sales Manager UK Claire claire@torque-expo.co.ukWarman

Jonathon jonathon@torque-expo.comHarker

Deputy Editor

Circulation

Disclaimer

16 TERRITORY FOCUS > EASTERN EUROPE

40 FASTENER MANUFACTURING > OPTIMAS, BERDAN CIVATA, REINHARDT, R+FK SCHULTE, SCHRIEVER, VICTORY FASTENERS, RAPID INDUSTRIAL FASTENERS, GROWERMETAL, GÜDE AND OWLETTJATON ARE AMONG THOSE MAKING UP OUR BUMPER MANUFACTURING’‘FASTENERSECTION

That may seem pretty unimportant amidst raw material prices, the energy crisis and other seismic issues. And yes, it doesn’t really get close to the magnitude of those challenges, but the move may well prove influential.

Sales Manager International Harry harry.whyte@torque-expo.comWhyte

BUSINESS BAROMETER > AUTOMOTIVE MARKET ARE CONDITIONS FAIR OR STORMY FOR THE CAR BUSINESS? PREVIEW > FASTENER FAIR ITALY

MORE THAN TEN PAGES ON THIS MAJOR FASTENER REGION, FEATURING EXPERT OPINION AND PROFILES ON KEY BUSINESSES

Head of Production

NOW PRODUCTS.NORD-LOCKSUPPLYING 01384 Washingtonmartynprice.co.uk424767MartynPriceLtd,Unit8,TheCentre,HalesowenRoad,Dudley,DY29REsales@martynprice.co.uk

tel: +44 (0)1727 739160 fax: +44 (0)1727 739169

A LONG TIME COMING SCREWFIX has stopped producing physical print copies of its catalogue.

22 PGB-POLSKA > “A SOLUTION FOR EVERY FIXING CHALLENGE”

Sales Manager - USA & International

Editor

TORQUE TOOLS & TECH > FEATURING GEDORE, NORBAR, YOKOTA AND MORE FOCUS > STAINLESS STEEL FASTENERS AND FIXINGS BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION > ANCHORS > WORKWEAR, PPE AND SAFETY

Proud member of:

18 Alban Park Hatfield Road St HertsAlbansAL4 0JJ

Jerry jerry@torque-expo.comRamsdale

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 opin ions expressed are not necessarily those

Thomas A. tom@torque-expo.comKeenan

Jonathon Harker

Screwfix’s catalogue has been going for 300 editions over 30 years. But it’s final (possibly collectors’) edition had 16,000 products, a mere sliver of the 37,000 Screwfix has avail able. The move will undoubtedly help push tradespeople further towards digital catalogues and apps. Small beer indeed, but in a fast changing world, it's a reminder that technology, when refined, can usurp old methods, at both exciting and mundane levels.

Luke luke@torque-expo.comWikner

Tracy tracy@torque-expo.comHowell

jonathon@torque-expo.comEditor

Every deliveredorderdirectly Access to an international network of quality producers. Production to exact specifications. No worries about distribution or customs. Global door-to-door order monitoring – anywhere in the world. Container import with Stafa makes importing from the global market accessible to every company. Request a free quote Tel.: +31 495 599 888 Den Engelsman 18 6026 RB Maarheeze The Netherlands +31 495 599 stafa.nlinfo@stafa.nl888 Our part in every solution CONTAINER IMPORT Carefully selected European and Asian partners Customised production Price advantage thanks to purchasing volume No customs worries Support throughout the entire import process

The beginning of May saw the completion of the transaction with Hoffman, which marked “the internationalisation of the trading business conducted by the Distribu tion & Logistics segment”. SFS agreed to acquire Hoffmann at the start of 2022,with a view to opening “major development opportuni ties” for both parties.

GROWTH ON TRACK DESPITE UNCERTAINTY, SAYS SFS GROUP

this, design engineers had to rethink this critical component.

NEWS

Stainless steel fasteners. Verbindungselemente.EdelstahlStandard and non-standard items Norm- und Standardteile DIN, ISO, EN and others / und andere Special parts and special materials Sonderteile / Sonderwerkstoffe Lederer GmbH | Katzbachstraße 4 | 58256 Ennepetal | Germany | Fon +49(0)2333/8309-0 | info@lederer-online.com Shop 2020 | lederer-shop.com availability advice quickorder / ﬁle upload backlinked pdf pages Bestands-eMailSchnellbestellung / Datei-Upload verlinkte Katalogseiten NEW NEU News from the distribution industry…

SFS Group generated gross sales of CHF 1,223.6 million in the ﬁrst half year, which corresponds to year on year growth of 27.8%. In addition to organic growth of 9.8%, there were consolidation effects of 19.3%, primarily as a result of the ﬁrst time consolidation of Hoffmann as of 1 May. Currency effects reduced sales growth by –1.3%.

www.torque-expo.com

Safely reducing the installation and maintenance time of tightening large bolts is at the core of Superbolt technologies. With Superbolt NXT, Nord Lock Group is taking those capabil ities to the next level, it said.

NEW SUPERBOLT NXT PITCHED AS ‘EASIEST-TO-USE BOLT TENSIONER IN THE WORLD’

Noting the “challenging environment shaped by considerable uncertainty”, SFS Group saw H1 2022 sales up 27.8% on last year, at CHF 1,223.6 million, while the EBIT margin adjusted for one off effects stood at 14.7%.

“We worked with some of the best steel mills and heat treat ment partners in the world to get the right materials and processes to increase the strength of our jackbolts,” said Max Bastiaansen, R&D Project Manager for Nord Lock Group. “Now, we can offer the customer an equivalent preload with less jack bolts, so it’s faster and easier to install with less torque.”

As in the previous ﬁnancial year, a high level of delivery readiness remained a strong competitive advantage, said the group: “The continued ability to deliver to customers was maintained thanks to local production sites, robust and largely regional supply chains and the tremendous commitment of the employees. We again managed to make selective market share gains.”

Demand for SFS products remained high over the period in most end markets and regions – regardless of the consid erable uncertainty due to the war in Ukraine, sustained

FS Group saw growth targets exceeded in all regions and end markets for the ﬁrst half of 2022, with the exception of the automotive industry.

The key improvement has been reducing the number of jack bolts required to tighten the bolt, as a small decrease in jackbolts can deliver a large decrease in the tightening time. To achieve

Superbolt NXT also features a black oxidised coating for corrosion protection, laser markings to guide installation and an anti slip knurling grip layer. www.nord-lock.com/nxt

disruption in supply chains, further waves of COVID 19 in Asia and Europe and an environment of rising interest rates and inﬂation.

Everything has been designed with user simplicity, safety and speed at the forefront. A typical M76 multi jackbolt tensioner can have up to twelve individual jackbolts, whereas the M76 Superbolt NXT achieves the same secure preload with just eight. This, plus a new knurling grip layer to support with handling during installation and removal, and other user friendly features elevates Superbolt NXT.

ulti jackbolt tensioner specialist Superbolt®, has introduced the Superbolt® NXT, a bolt tensioner that is reportedly up to 30% faster to install than existing solutions.

A PERFECT FIXING FOR YOUR BUSINESS NEW CATALOGUE 2022

www.dresselhaus.de

The company has also appointed Rebecca Fortescue Halli well (Middle) as the new Head of Marketing. Fortescue Halli well has experience in the fixings and fasteners sector, including at Swiftec Group, SPARKA UK Ltd and T.I.Midwood & Co Ltd (TIMCO). She will be proactively supporting merchant

Showing personal responsibility, being a role model and tackling things that seem difficult together these are topics that are of great importance to Markus Schörg and for which he would like to inspire his employees in the future: "I always moti vated the entire team at Dresselhaus immensely, committed and open minded. With the typical Dresselhaus virtues and our customers in focus, together we will

here has been a change in the former dual leadership of the Dresselhaus Group with Markus Schörg, taking on the position of sole CEO since 1 July 2022. With this change, Dresselhaus returns to an organisation structure with only one manager at the top.

As part of the company’s restructuring and realignment in 2021, Dresselhaus opted for dual leadership in view of the challenges ahead. Markus Schörg joined Dresselhaus as Co CEO on 1 March 2021. He took over the areas of sales, marketing and digital business. Purchasing was added to Schörg’s department in July 2022, and since that time he has also been the CEO and Managing Director and has

orgeFix has made three key appointments over the last few months including a new Managing Director and Head of Marketing, plus a new Product Support Demonstrator.

Markus Schörg was born in Austria and before joining Dresselhaus he held senior management positions at various compa nies, most recently at Theo Förch GmbH & Co. KG and the Würth Group.

customers and leading the company’s “Voice of the Customer” initiative, designed to put the merchant at the heart of every thing it Stevedoes.Moore (Left) joins the business as Product Support Demonstrator and will become a familiar face in merchant branches up and down the country. With a trade background, Moore will demonstrate the ForgeFix family of brands including Spectre, Coreplus and ForgeFast.

SOLE CEO FOR DRESSELHAUS GROUP

www.forgefix.co.uk

be able to continue on the successful course we have embarked on again.”

Paul Swift (Right) has been appointed as Managing Director of ForgeFix, moving from Tyman PLC. Swift’s focus will be on changing the company’s supply chain approach and pushing a return to the ‘ForgeFix way,’ which means flexibility, excel lent customer service and protecting the company’s reputa tion as the friendly supplier who are easy to deal with.

EXPLORE MORE: lederer-world.comStainless Steel Fasteners NEWS News from the distribution industry www.torque-expo.com PEOPLE NEWS

been solely responsible for the business of the C parts specialist.

FORGEFIX’S NEW TRIO

Tel: +44 (0)121 4397329 Fax: +44 (0)121 4397346 Unit 4, Alma Industrial Estate, Stafford Road, Wednesbury, WS10 8SX, United Kingdon The Inser t (UK)CompanyLimited Specialists in Threaded Inserts for Wood, Plastic and Metal Zinc Alloy Inserts Steel Inserts Brass Inserts Furniture Connectors Headed Hex Drive Steel Knock-in Barbed Expansion Countersunk Caps

GLOBAL NEWS ROUND-UP

Spectre has launched new 100% recyclable tub packaging made with a minimum of 30% recycled plastic. The reusable tubs are available in various quantities and come with two Spectre screwdriver bits. The move is part of an overall drive by the company to reduce its carbon footprint.

Atlas Copco has agreed to acquire Montana Instruments Corporation, a privately owned company located in Bozeman, Montana, USA. The company provides cryostat solutions for customers involved in physics research and low temperature technology solutions. The acquisition is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to close in Q4 2022.

UNITED KINGDOM 03

UNITED KINGDOM 04

10 torque-expo.com

ATLAS COPCO TO ACQUIRE MONTANA INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION >

TIMCO is a finalist in the Mid Market Business category of the British Business Excellence Awards. The company is also a finalist in the Builders Merchants Journal (BMJ) Industry Awards 2022 in the Distributor of the Year category, with Sales Director Simon Rance a finalist in the Industry Personality of the Year category.

NORTH AMERICA 01

01 02 FOR BIG NUTS, BIG BOLTS & BIG WASHERS. 01384 Washingtonmartynprice.co.uk424767MartynPriceLtd,Unit8,TheCentre,HalesowenRoad,Dudley,DY29REsales@martynprice.co.uk Selected news from the fasteners, fixings and tools industries around the world…

The acquisition of Dytran Instruments, Inc. has been completed and it will be integrated into the HBK business. Dytran’s products are used in space, aerospace, industrial, and automotive applications. Dytran will enable HBK to build sales in North America. While HBK’s global presence will extend the reach of Dytran products worldwide.

NORTH AMERICA 02

SPECTRE LAUNCHES RECYCLED PLASTIC TUBS >

DYTRAN BRUELHOTTINGERJOINS&KJAER

TIMCO IN RUNNING FOR BUSINESS AWARDS >

07 08 03 04 06 05 MORE THANSPECSSIZES,&FINISHESANYONE! 01384 Washingtonmartynprice.co.uk424767MartynPriceLtd,Unit8,TheCentre,HalesowenRoad,Dudley,DY29REsales@martynprice.co.uk

MKS Instruments Inc has completed the acquisition of Atotech Limited for approximately $4.4 billion in cash and MKS common stock. Atotech is among the global leaders in process chemicals, equipment, software and services for printed circuit boards, semiconductor IC packaging and surface finishing.

ASIA 08

NEW CLAMPS >

ASIA 07

EUROPE 06

East China’s Jiangsu Province reported an 11.5% increase in foreign trade in the first seven months to 3.14 trillion yuan (about 465.8 billion U.S. dollars).

and

Components manufacturer norelem has added over 800 items to its range of clamping products. The range will allow for a larger variety of workpieces or tools to be fixed down and machined. New product families, including baseplates and subplates, have been added to the product range that can be positioned and fastened

torque-expo.com11

German Keller & Kalmbach Group, a fasteners and fixing technology specialist, has formed a joint venture with India based Mohindra Fasteners Ltd, a manufacturer of cold and hot forged fasteners and precision machined components. Delhi registered KK Mohindra Fastenings Private Limited will provide local support to industrial customers with plans to expand in the future.

Exports rose 14.6%, year in year, to approximately 2 trillion yuan according to Nanjing Customs. In the January July period, Jiangsu’s exports of mechanical and electrical products reached 1.3 trillion yuan, up 13.5%, dominating 65.4% of the province’s total export value.

To subscribe to Torque Magazine receive the newsletter visit: www.torque-expo.com/subscribe/ scan this QR code...

MKS COMPLETES $4.4 BILLION BUY-OUT >

EAST CHINA FOREIGN TRADE UP >

NEW INDIA BASED JOINT VENTURE >

EUROPE NORELEM05LAUNCHES

ALESSANDRA FASOLO CARLO SALVI

12 torque-expo.com INTERVIEW WOMEN IN FASTENERS

When I joined the company, the acquisition with Hatebur had recently taken place and we were in a transitory period full of Overchanges.time, despite the difficulties, the first group synergies were established, the identity of both brands was strengthened, and we created a common future oriented vision. Our produc tion range has expanded and new market opportunities and collaboration between teams have taken over.

Alessandra Fasolo takes us through her career milestones and explains how Carlo Salvi, a manufacturer of heading machines for fastener production, has been adapting to new opportunities...

I studied linguistics and I have a degree in foreign languages, specifically German and Spanish. While at university I had the opportunity to gain a broader view of the world and spent some time in these countries to improve my skills.

What are the biggest changes you have seen in the industry and the company since you started?

I was looking for a job opportunity that would allow me to take advantage of what I had learned and why not, if possible, to travel every now and then.

What does your day-to-day job involve?

In parallel to these tasks, I liaise with the marketing depart ment to coordinate the activities and strategies aimed at generating new sales opportunities and help organise our participation at trade fairs, which I also regularly attend.

How did you get into the industry?

Carlo Salvi is a well known company in the territory of Lecco, close to where I live. I often read news about the company concerning its presence and successes abroad. I decided to apply for a position, and they offered me an intern ship while I was writing my thesis. During that time I found myself in a completely new "technical" world, where even foreign languages were used in a "technical" way and with many appropriate terms. Working in that environment aroused my curiosity and the desire to learn something out of the ordinary, and five years later, here I am.

During my working day I deal purely with Sales and the back office activities that follow. I collaborate daily with the Sales Director on our commercial policies that are the basis of what we use to draw up customised offers and support him during theOurnegotiations.officealso takes care of assisting the sales network of agents and collaborators all over the world.

Schafer + Peters GmbH Competence in Stainless Steel INOX STAINLESSSTEEL Europe's leading distributor of stainless steel fasteners Over 37,000 items permanently in stock 40 years of experience Schafer+ Peters GmbHIZeilbaumweg321 DE-74613 OhringenIGermany Tel.+49 (0) 7941 6094-0IFax+49 (0) 7941 6094-700Iinfo@schaefer-peters.comIwww.schaefer-peters.com

I am happy to have joined this field and I thank Carlo Salvi and the people who believed in me by offering me the opportunity to learn, grow and reflect every day. I believe that imagining and motivating our own goals is an important step towards achieving them.

With the onset of the pandemic, it was difficult to predict and deal with unexpected situations. I am certain that, as for many other companies, this was an opportunity to encourage and implement research and development in digitalisation.

In recent years I have had the opportunity to meet career women with great skills, who were very bright and certainly inspiring for me. My advice is to let yourself be inspired. Try to look out into a new world, a world that requires a lot of energy and as women, we can do it.

www.carlosalvi.com

INTERVIEW WOMEN IN FASTENERS

We have invested heavily and are now able to offer an Industry 4.0 package for the maintenance, operations and assistance of our machines remotely. 90% of our turnover is generated by exports, in times when mobility was reduced it was fundamental. Today, it offers tax benefits and speed in our customer service.

What do you think needs to be done to encourage even more women to get involved in the fastener industry?

I believe that the fastener industry is such a large world that it is almost impossible not to find interest in one of its many facets. I personally don't believe that technology is masculine or feminine; the world is changing, and more and more women are entering this sector.

It is during difficult times that we must reinvent ourselves.

Carlo Salvi is a regular exhibitor at trade fairs

I’m very proud of the growth path I have had so far. I joined the company with very little experience, just looking for an oppor tunity but with a great desire to get involved. Today I have managed to gain confidence and responsibility in handling projects independently. I really feel part of the team.

Any final thoughts?

Can you share some of your career highlights and milestones so far?

Carlo Salvi is a manufacturer of heading machines for the production of fasteners. Every day we study and create completely customised solutions. Our business is very versa tile and flexible: we constantly reshape our strengths and our experience to adapt them to new opportunities. This is exactly what I like in this field, seeing that even after many years of experience in the company there is always something to learn and discover, nothing is taken for granted.

What is your favourite thing about the fastener industry?

// Our business is versatile and flexible: every day we reshape our strengths and adapt them to new opportunities. There is always something to learn and discover. //

2021 was a decisive restart. However, the project remains central now and is aimed at offering new product lines and expansion into the market.

14 torque-expo.com

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// There is one market in Europe which is growing almost every year, by more than 10%. //

POLAND: THE FASTEST GROWING FASTENER MARKET?

The Polish fastener market has been the rising star in Europe and there are indicators that its expansion will continue further still in the coming years. Marek Langalis presents the numbers –as well as forthright opinions – on how the Polish fastener market fits in to the bigger picture...

Poland has many times been called the China of Europe. There are few reasons for that: hard working people for not so big salary. It is totally different to many Western European territories. And it is still a country of young people. In table 1 You can see the median age in a few coun tries. If you think about Italy as the seond biggest fastener market in Europe, then you have to be sure that demography will change it in few years time.

Source: Eurostat

TABLE 1 MEDIAN AGE IN BIGGEST EUROPEAN COUNTRIES IN 2021 Country median age UK 40.2 Slovakia 41.4 Poland 41.6 France 42.1 Romania 43.0 Czech 43.3 Hungary 43.6 Spain 44.7 Germany 45.9 Italy 47.6

or many years on the European map of fasteners we had big four markets: Germany, Italy, United Kingdom and France (let’s say that biggest territory of Russia and Turkey are in Asia). And there was also Spain in fifth spot. But for a few years this has not been true. There is one market in Europe which is growing almost every year, by more than 10%. Let me take you for a short journey examining the Polish fastener market, the fastest growing market in Europe.

16 torque-expo.com

EASTERN EUROPE – OPINION

TERRITORY FOCUS

BIG DEMAND

In 2020, Poland was chosen by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Develop ment (UNCTAD) the fifth best place in the world to invest into green fields. There are many reasons for that and one of them is that you can still find a lot of people in Poland who love to work and enjoy their work, with out a huge salary. In table 2 you can see that Polish people are in second place in EU coun tries in terms of worked hours.

NEW IN STOCKOUR WEBSHOP achill-fasteners.com DIN 912 DIN 931 / DIN 933 ISO 7380-1 / ISO 7380-2 DIN 6921 DIN 6912 DIN 934 ISO 4014 / ISO 4017 DIN 960 / DIN 961 ISO 10642 / DIN 7991 DIN 7984 DIN 125 SINCEQUALITY1951 Achilles Seibert D-24558Philipp-Reis-StraßeGmbH3Henstedt-Ulzburg THE GLOBAL PARTNER FOR DISTRIBUTORS Tel +49 (0) 41 93 89 55 Fax +49 (0) 41 93 89 56 sales@achill-fasteners.com99 EDINEW TAPPING SCREWS ISO 14585 ISO 14586 type C DRILLING SCREWS ISO 15481 ISO 15482 DIN 7504 type K THREAD ROLLING SCREWS ISO 14583 ISO 14579 ISO 14580 ISO 14581 DIN 7500 CE/M HEXAGON SOCKET SET SCREWS DIN 913 DIN 914 DIN 915 DIN 916 NUTS DIN 985 DIN 6923

Source: own calculation on Eurostat data

TABLE 5 GDP GROWTH IN EU COUNTRIES IN 2018-2021 YR.

18 torque-expo.com

Country Monthly Romania 1,285 € Hungary 1,296 € Slovakia 1,405 € Poland 1,418 € Czech 1,549 € Italy 2,479 € Spain 2,648 € France 4,130 € Germany 4,168 €

Source: Eurostat

We cannot forget one important issue – 16 central European countries’ GDP (without Ukraine and Belarus) are only twice bigger than single country Poland. And Poland is still the fastest growing country in European Union (table 5). So if you want to move your factory from France, Italy or Germany then you will likely move it to Poland.

That long introduction was very impor tant to understand why the Polish fastener market is growing so fast and why it is, from 2021, in third place in Europe. Poland is different to modern countries in the European Union. Our GDP still consists of 40% from industry (a simi lar level to China). It is different to Germany (only 30% GDP consists from industry), France and UK (both 20%), Italy (24%) or Spain (23%). So Poland has many totally new factories set up by foreign investors or already grown from the beginning. You have to remember that before 1990, when communism in Poland went bankrupt, private business was almost banned (allowed only up to 10 workers). So from 1990 there was a huge gap between demand and supply. Lots of small businesses established in that time grew to middle and now big companies. At this moment Poland is the biggest producer in Europe of furniture (more than 22,000 companies are in that market), doors, garage doors and windows. Maybe it is simple production but all of them require fasteners. 85% of that production goes on export.

TABLE 2 WORKED HOURS IN CHOSEN EU COUNTRIES IN 2020

And if you compare this to table 3 (salaries) then you get a simple result. For a yearly salary of €17,000 Polish people will work 1,766 hours, but in many other countries, people work for less hours and more money, so it’s a simple calculation.

Country working hours Romania 1,768 Poland 1,766 Czech 1,705 Hungary 1,660 Spain 1,577 Slovakia 1,572 Italy 1,559 France 1,402 Germany 1,332

TABLE 3 AVERAGE GROSS SALARY IN CHOSEN EU COUNTRIES IN 2021

TABLE 4 CORPORATE INCOME TAX – 2021 Country Income tax Hungary 9.0% Romania 16.0% Poland 19.0% Czech 19.0% UK 19.0% Slovakia 21.0% Spain 25.0% Italy 27.8% France 28.4% Germany 29.9%

Country 2018 2019 2020 2021 Total Poland +5.4% +4.7% -2.1% +5.9% +14.4% Hungary +5.4% +4.6% -4.5% +7.1% +12.7% Romania +4.5% +4.2% -3.7% +5.9% +11.0% Slovakia +3.8% +2.6% -4.4% +3.0% +4.9% Czech +3.2% +3.0% -5.8% +3.3% +3.4% France +1.9% +1.8% -7.8% +6.8% +2.1% Germany +1.1% +1.1% -4.6% +2.9% +0.3% Italy +0.9% +0.5% -9.0% +6.6% -1.6% Spain +2.3% +2.1% -10.8% +5.1% -2.1%

EASTERN EUROPE – OPINION

And we cannot forget that corporation income tax is much lower in Poland than in France, Italy or Germany (table 4). Big industrial concerns arguably have a simple decision to make: producing where salaries are three times higher than in Poland, people work 25% less, corporate income taxes are half higher... or move to Poland or Romania.

// Corporation income tax is much lower in Poland than in France, Italy or Germany. //

Source: own calculation

Poland does not have a famous automo tive brand but we do have factories for the automotive industry. The biggest is Stellan tis (FIAT, Citroen and Peugeot). Passenger cars production is not on a high level, with

Source: Eurostat

TERRITORY FOCUS

STRONG FOR GENERATIONSNEW WEDGE ANCHORS more at: www.klimas.com | contact us: export@wkret-met.com LE-A4 LE-ZN - Wedge anchors (Galvanized steel) LE-DA4 - Wedge anchors (SQ Ceramic + Stainless steel A4)

ANTI-CORROSION PROTECTION

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Stainless Steel A4 - Highest level of anti-corrosion protection.

LE-ZNA4 - Wedge anchors (Galvanized + Stainless steel A4) - Wedge anchors (Stainless steel

European Technical Assessment: ETA 20/0640 (LE-ZN), ETA 20/0641 (LE-ZNA4, LE-DA4, LE-A4)

A4)

KLIMAS DESIGN FIX - FAST AND INTUITIVE SELECTION OF FASTENER

SQ Ceramic - Special anti-scratch multi-layer aluminum-zinc lamellar coating allows the use of the anchors in environments with higher corrosivity classification.

LE-A4

Galvanized steel - Guarantees high degree of anti-corrosion protection

www.klimas.com

Design of chemical and mechanical KLIMAS anchors has never been so easy! Software is available free of charge. To download our software or to get more information please contact us.

TIMBER CONSTRUCTION SCREWS STRONG FOR GENERATIONS more at: www.klimas.com | contact us: export@wkret-met.com EuropeanAssessmentTechnical www.klimas.com WKFCWKPCWKFS WKLC DOUBLE THREAD GREATLY IMPROVES TIMBER PENETRATION SPEED HIGH PERFORMANCE PARAMETERS LESS SCREWING RESISTANCE*20% FASTER SCREWING TIME* UP TO UP TO 40% *compared to old tip of Klimas Wkręt-met screws *compared to old tip of Klimas Wkręt-met screws

FASTENER DEMAND

Polish fastener producers were gaining here. An important issue is that the PLN is going down, which also helps exporters. Since Russia attacked Ukraine on 24 February, world investors started to treat PLN as higher risk currency. PLN dropped down to EUR from 4.5 to 4.9. Now it is stable at 1 EUR to 4,7 PLN. Still it is a good exchange rate for exporters. The most important countries for export are Germany, the United Kingdom, Czech Republic, France and Sweden.

I hope you can now see the demand for fasteners in Poland.

CHART 1 EXPORT OF FASTENERS FROM POLAND IN 2003-2021 YR (IN MLN PLN)

But it is the production of fasteners which makes the Polish market so interesting. In just six months I have received five inquiries about buying a Polish producer of fasteners. To be honest, in the past 10 years no one ever asked.

CHART 1

I can write lots of words but just take a look at this simple chart to understand how big the growth of fasteners in Poland is (chart 1). Within 18 years, exports of fasteners from Poland increased seven fold. It is correct – seven times higher within 18 years. Covid made this situation even better for domestic factories. Now it is not ‘just in time’ that is most important for planning and purchasing, now it is ‘just in Becausecase’.oflockdowns in China and prob lems with sea freight, big factories in Europe were looking for local producers, even if they had 10 15% higher price. In terms of fasteners, these are still small values.

Another big market for fasteners demand is aerospace. In South East Poland there is Aviation Valley – which consist of more than 100 companies with 35 thousands of employees.

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only 260,000 cars in 2021 (Slovakia – 1 million, Romania – 420,000, Czech – 1.1 million), but commercial car (trucks) production is on a high level – at 180,000. In Poland you can find a factories of: Magni, Toyota Motor, Valeo, Faurecia, Delphi, Kirchoff, MAN, Volvo, Neoplan, Scania, Solaris, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen. All of them are huge consumers of fasteners.

Companies from France, the UK and the USA are looking for a good manufacturing companies with a portfolio of clients, production know how, perfect financial status and a low price (one from this four should be excluded). Why is there such huge interest at the moment? Everyone thinks that after Ukraine has defended Russia’s attack, Poland will be the first to rebuild it. So, in the UK or the USA people think that they can buy Polish producers

// It is the production of fasteners which makes the Polish market so interesting. In just six months I have received five inquiries about buying a Polish producer of fasteners. //

Source: own calculation the data of the Central Statistical Office (Statistics Poland)

Last but not least there are electronics and domestic appliances. With the production value of more than €20 billion it is a big consumer of fasteners. In Poland there are huge factories of cookers and washing machines together with refriger ators, such as: Bosch, Siemens, Samsung, Whirlpool, Electrolux, LG, Zelmer (domes tic brand) and the biggest, Polish Amica. For the electronics there are: Phillips, Dell, LG, Flextronics, Sharp and much more.

// In contrast to countries like Germany or Italy where export of fasteners is doing huge numbers, Poland has a big market.domestic//

Poland 599 860 788 977

In contrast to countries like Germany or Italy where export of fasteners is doing huge numbers, Poland has a big domestic market. Until 2016 it was the sixth market in the EU (after Germany, Italy, the UK, France and Spain). In 2017, there was a first show in Cracow – Fastener Poland – which was a huge success. It helped Polish companies to get new contracts from all over Europe. Now the Polish market of fasteners is the third biggest, it passed Spain in 2016, then UK and France in 2019. As you can see in table 6, Covid year (2020) was a huge disaster for Germany or Spain. Poland also lost, but only 10%. For 2021, numbers for other countries

EASTERN EUROPE – OPINION

Italy 1,017 1,428 1,141 n.a.

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The fastener business in Poland is a little different to other European countries. We have a lot of young (under 40 years) companies. The biggest are: Rawlplug (former Koelner), Klimas (former Wkret Met) and Marcopol. All of them have production facilities and also do trading. They all are family run business. For the first time Rawlplug had (in 2021) turnover that reached more than 1 bln PLN. So at this moment it is more probable that Polish companies will aquire some foreign businesses rather than the opposite.

CHART 2

now and get good profits in next year. But there is one surprise – Polish owners think the same. And with the current favourable situation, prices for the compa nies will not be low. Nevertheless, produc tion of fasteners continues to see good growth. In 2021, for the first time it was higher than 2 bln PLN. And it looks like it will be a long trend. On 17 February this year the European Commission imposed anti dumping duty on steel fasteners from China (at 87%), so production in a coun try like Poland should be growing for a lot of next Pleaseyears.take a look at graph no 2 for the years 2009 2011. In 2009, the European Commission also implemented anti dumping on China fasteners, and Polish producers within two years almost doubled production. Now we cannot expect the same but still production of fasteners in Poland should grow.

still not available, but for Poland I have already made a calculation. It seems that 2021 was 20% higher than 2019. It is prob ably hard to predict that Poland can over come Italy, but five years ago I thought it was impossible to overtake France.

Germany 1,737 1,789 1,205 n.a.

Source: own calculation based on datas of Eurostat and Prodcom

TERRITORY FOCUS

Spain 617 593 270 n.a.

Country 2016 2019 2020 2021

Source: own calculation the data of the Central Statistical Office (Statistics Poland)

France 895 752 691 n.a.

CHART 2 PRODUCTION OF FASTENERS FROM POLAND IN 2003-2021 YR (IN MLN PLN)

TABLE 6 DOMESTIC MARKET OF FASTENER IN CHOSEN EU COUNTRIES 2016-2021 (MILLION EUR)

Czech 576 462 393 n.a.

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gb Polska is the manufacturing division of pgb Interna tional. It specialises in nylon fixings, steel anchors and chemical anchors. The main activity of pgb Polska is the development and production of high quality nylon fixings. Its fixing products are sold under the SMART brand.

The manufacturer produces and develops its nylon anchors in its production plant in Zabrze. By producing in Poland, pgb Polska is able to be a proud member of ECAP (European Consortium of Anchor Producers).

The SMART brand provides a wide range of fixing solutions, with the firm striving to provide a suitable solution for each fixing challenge. pgb Polska offers a wide range of fixing solu tions: standard wall plugs, heavy duty anchors for applications under seismic action, chemical anchors, etc: “We constantly monitor the construction industry and continuously aim to improve and develop our products to provide even better and stronger solutions.”

pgb Polska is intensively developing its product segment of wood screws and construction screws under the PFS+ brand. Stainless steel screws are also part of the PFS+ brand and are necessary for decks and outdoor constructions. pgb Polska has different types of stainless steel screws for almost any appli cation you can think of, it says: “These screws are extremely corrosion resistant and are recommended for certain types of hardwood due to the tannic acids in the wood.”

The assortment also includes traditional and mechanical solutions like powerful through bolts. The SMART S TB7 through bolt with ETA option 7 for non cracked concrete is a flexible solution for mounting in non cracked concrete surfaces. Thanks to its approval for two anchoring depths and its long screw thread, the anchor can be used in a wide variety of applications. In addition to push through installa tion, pre positioning and stand off installation is also possi ble. This new generation of through bolts enables higher loads, but also offers small edge distances and anchor spac ing, as well as fast installation.

PGB-POLSKA

Chemical anchors are among pgb Polska’s top products. Each chemical anchor cartridge injects a chemical resin/mortar into a previously prepared hole. The chemical resin/mortar is injected through a static mixer. This allows users to fill the entire hole in which they will place the threaded rod or anchor. In short, chemical anchors offer a strong solution for a wide range of applications on the jobsite. Some types even allow users to continue working in cold temperatures or in zones that are prone to seismic action.

COVER PROFILE

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“A SOLUTION FOR EVERY FIXING CHALLENGE”

Striving to have a product for every fixing job, pgb-Polska is actively expanding its product lines. Having recently re-located to a new strategic location, the firm has also been ramping up its sustainability efforts and digitalisation to better serve its customers…

New 15,000m2 site

pgb Polska is working from a strategic new location on a 15,000m² site, has approximately 11,000m² pallet warehouse and constantly invests in the development of new technologies. Currently, the company carries out activities related to the automation of the production processes and packaging of finished products. During the production of its fixings, it tries to

“We not only have the ISO 9001 mark, but most of our products are also ETA approved. The European Technical Approval (ETA) is based on an independent test report and ensures the consistent quality of most of the products pgb Polska offers. Independent tests ensure that our anchors meet the highest performance stan dards and comply with EU construction legislation.”

The continuing emphasis on quality and service contributes to pgb Polska further offering its services to foreign markets. This applies not only to European markets, but also to the Middle East and Asia, which are becoming more and more accessible and within its reach.

// With a wide range of products, you can find any fixing solution for your business. We can also support private label items. //

Pgb Polska says: “Our knowhow and continuous investments in new technologies make sure that we always meet more chal lenging and technical demands. Our 24 hour online service and high quality demands make sure that we can offer our clients a maximum service including: minimal in house logistic effort, an efficient order process and efficient stock management.”

torque-expo.com23

pgb’s SMART brand offers a wide range of ﬁxing solutions

“The wide range of products available to you, makes pgb Polska a partner where you can find any fixing solution for your business. Apart from the available range, pgb Polska also has the ability to support private label items. We are able to deliver packed products with any dimensions as per customers’ requirements. The products we manufacture can be packed in individually tailored packaging for a given brand.

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“We constantly monitor the construction industry and continuously develop our products to provide even better and stronger solutions”

PGB-POLSKA

“At pgb Polska, we care about sustainable development –thanks to the new photovoltaic cells installed on the roof of our headquarters, we reduce electricity consumption. We combine passion for what we do with the future and environ mental impact in mind.”

COVER PROFILE

// We not only have the ISO 9001 mark, but most of our products are also ETA ensureIndependentapproved.teststhatouranchorsmeetthehighestperformancestandards.//

Customer service is being improved all the time through new IT solutions, contact with the customer via the new website along with the opportunity to place orders and to handle inventory control. In 2022, pgb Polska will present its products at the fair in Cologne (Eisenwarenmesse) and in Krakow, at the Fastener Poland show. www.pgb-polska.com

minimise the impact on the environment: “We develop anchors and select raw materials with sustainability in mind. In addition, we prohibit the use of unsafe processes or materials.

rutek Fastening Sytems UK Ltd, Ighten Road.Burnley. BB12 0HP, UK

Mechanical Anchors

President Wojciech Klimas (right) with son Paweł

In 1990, Joanna and Wojciech Klimas were setting up their business in a country that had just undergone a rapid transfor

Wojciechbusiness.Klimas, CEO and owner of Klimas, emphasises that the family factor is particularly important not only for its image, but also defines its values. That family business status makes Klimas perceived as a brand that is credible, authentic and determined to provide goods and services of the highest quality, as well as a reliable manufacturer. The owner acknowledges that he is always guided by a sense of responsibility, both to his successors and business partners, and this always translates into relationships.

// India is one of the most promising Asiantoday.markets//

Klimas today has two large sites of the company including production facilities, both located near Czestochowa in southern Poland. Four production facilities with a total area of 80,000 m² produce 30 million screws and 9 million plastic fasteners every day, and 21 million screws are hardened there every day. Shipments to nearly 70 countries around the world – from Norway to Australia – set

TERRITORY FOCUS

t is said that behind every success is a person. In the case of Klimas, the largest manufacturer of construction fasteners on the Polish market, it is differ ent. The strength of the company lies not in one visionary, but in the whole family.

PASSION AND FAMILY Klimas, despite the enormous scale on which it operates today, supplying its products to nearly 70 countries around the world and having companies in several of them, still identifies itself as a family

FROM A FAMILY BUSINESS TO GLOBAL MARKETS

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The word “generations” acquires a special meaning – on the one hand, the mission of the company is to create fasteners that will last for generations, on the other hand, the business itself is the result of the work of the next generation. And both are strong.

KLIMAS: STRONG FOR EASTERNGENERATIONSEUROPE

mation and where the free market was just beginning. Life, says the CEO, prompted the business idea, the rest was courage to act and work hard daily, especially in the manufacturing area, which remains the beating heart of Mr and Mrs Klimas’ business. They have devoted theirselves to the work and the company, which is treated with the same passion by their children, all of whom have been involved for years in building the power of Klimas.

...These two words sum up the mission of Klimas, a company that in 32 years has become a leader among fastener manufacturers in Poland, and now boldly reaches for more. High, repeatable quality, in-house production, great passion and the unchanging desire to ensure that Klimas products are an optimal investment, an investment for generations...

S.r.l. KJ 46 The NEW Hydropneumatic tool for blind rivet nuts • Light & ergonomic tool for operator • Easy setting of new rivnut size • Pneumatic valve regulation of the force power (intuitive & easy from the bottom of the tool thanks to a pressure indicator) • Tie-rods savings • Minimal noise thanks to the new silencer • Traditional mechanical stroke adjustment system available • Tie-rods & heads in inches available on demand M4 ÷ M10 Particular attention in the design of this tool was paid to the reduction of noise, weight, size and a new system that allows two ways of use: air power setting or mechanical stroke adjustment. The first feature allows a fast and extremely intuitive adjustment from the first rivet nut simply by using the regulation valve located in the lower part of the riveter, which is connected to a small pressure indicator. This enables the correct installation of the rivet nut by controlling the level of pressure. Newquickand intuitive power /strokeadjustment Traditionalmechanical stroke adjustmentsystemasan alternati v e Lessnoisethanks to the new silencer • FAR Italy: Family owned business SINCE 1957 • 4 types of products - 9 sites • FAR operates in more than 75 markets • 65 YEARS of manufacturing experience in the market • N°1 in ITALY in fastening sector as Manufacturer and Distributor • LEADING COMPANY in Europe as Manufacturer & Distributor • Well estabilish brand in the international markets MANUFACTURING QUALITY FASTENERS & TOOLS SINCE 1957 www.far.bo.it Riv ets Riv n uts To ols Auto m ations FAR s.r.l. - Via Giovanni XXIII, 2 Fraz. Quarto Inferiore - 40057 Granarolo Emilia - Bologna - Italy Ph: +39 051 6009591 Fax: +39 051 76 828 4 E-mail: export@far.bo.it

IN-HOUSE PRODUCTION IS THE BASIS

The company is ever more successful around the globe, with European compa nies successfully establishing its position on the old continent, but Klimas is going for more. In 2019 it set its sights on a country as far away from Poland as India.

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REMEMBER THE PAST, LOOK TO THE FUTURE Klimas says that despite the obstacles along the way, persistence and hard work have paid off, with Klimas Wkrew met’s technological ideas winning more markets and gaining the approval of industry representatives from around theHowever,world. this would not be the case if it were not for continuous development, constant investment in technologies that allow the firm to improve products and create new solutions. A team of specialists conducts a number of studies and tests, combining the achievements of science

Production has not come about by accident; for years it has been the apple of CEO Wojciech Klimas’ eye. The company has always had a manufacturing character, thanks to which it provides its contractors with an uninterrupted supply chain. That’s why Klimas is trusted by investors and general contractors from around the world, to whom the company offers not only high quality products, but also on site service.

EASTERN EUROPE

21 million screws are hardened by Klimas

Not only big players can count on expert advice, the company of Mr and Mrs Klimas treats do it yourselfers and hobbyists with equal respect as general investors or archi

www.wkret-met.com

every day

QUALITY IS A MATTER OF TRUST

tects. That’s why Klimas products are avail able in more than 10,000 points of sale, and for several years also online, through the e klimas sales platform. Passion is passion, no matter the scale, everyone deserves the same excellent quality, says the firm.

Quality is a factor that needs constant attention, which is why Klimas quality control takes place continually, at every stage of production. Products are tested in various conditions, watched over by a whole department of experts. Compli cated strength tests, examining important parameters, in turn, are the daily work of the local laboratory. The company has always focused on high quality, even when it was simply one of many local businesses. Nothing has changed in this regard, Klimas knows perfectly well that once a customer’s trust is let down, it may not be recovered.

Courage in this family is apparently hereditary, and this move turned out to be an excellent step in business develop ment. Klimas' strategy is to continue to boldly reach out to other markets as a leader in fastener technology in Europe.

“India is one of the most promising Asian markets today,” says Pawel Klimas, Board Member and Export Director of Klimas (and the son of the owners). “We saw great potential there in the area of building material suppliers and decided to establish our own sales structures,” he explains.

with practical knowledge. Thanks to prac tice, an ace up the company’s sleeve, Klimas can create projects tailored to a given investment with close cooperation with business partners.

Klimas believes that it is always about rela tionships, they are what give birth to ideas that take shape and ultimately lead to development. The Klimas family business is based, on the one hand, on the strength of the family, and on the other, on a highly qualified team of experts, each of whom contributes his or her share to building the company’s status. With success, because Klimas has plans to become a leader already not only in the Polish, but also in the European market of fastening techniques.

TERRITORY FOCUS

POLISH LEADER, GLOBAL PLAYER

off from the warehouse, which has 25,000 storage spaces. The company employs around 800 workers, for some of whom it arranges daily transportation to and from work. And so Klimas, with all this enormity, with the great momentum of its operations, retains a human face: “This is a company where everyone says ‘hello’ to each other, where an employee can meet the President in the production depart ment and exchange greetings with him.”

The company does not focus solely on production and purely business activities, it has also set ambitious educational goals. It regularly releases instructional videos, educating about the products it offers (and there is plenty to do, Klimas has 6,500 of them in its product portfolio), organises training and coaching sessions, and provides expert advice to all those facing a choice of fastening techniques for their investment. Tests or technical calculations are not a problem here either.

THE STEEL SHAPING

The Advantages of Italian Technology 4.0

www.mecavit.it

SHOULD PRICE BE THE MAIN DETERMINANT OF PURCHASING?

Inflation and inventories are likely on the minds of much of the fastener business. Marcopol CEO Piotr Pierowicz and Supply Chain Manager Daniel Cyperling neatly lay out the recent predicament and argue how the supply chain should focus on transparency – and production located closer to companies – to reduce their susceptibility to disruption…

Marcopol Supply Chain DanielManagerCyperlingMarcopolCEOPiotrPierowicz

EASTERN EUROPE

TERRITORY FOCUS

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As of 2020, we are living in an era of pandemics, and this is having an impact on how companies in various industries oper ate. The problems facing automobile makers, machinery manufacturers and the fastener industry are mostly the same –broken supply chains and rising inventories.

Broken supply chains. Rising inventories. What to do about it?

Keeping track of fastener stock when supply chains go awry is no small endeavour, but there are solutions...

Little is said about the fact that back in June of this year we had to face the rigors of Covid 19. I am referring to China the “factory of the world” supplying goods and components necessary for production in many corners of the world, including

Poland. There, the Covidian regime was still in effect.

But let’s go back to 2020, when the problem of not only the virus but also broken supply chains emerged. Immedi ately after the initial shock of Covid 19 and the global drop in both production and demand resulting from the lock downs that were put in place, central banks and governments launched measures, including ‘shields’ of all kinds, generating large amounts of money in the market. This contributed to a surge in demand that factories, which only a few months earlier had been reducing their capacity as a result of the lockdown and fears that demand would fall, were unable to keep up with.

How has COVID-19 changed the reality for entrepreneurs?

Fast delivery

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Effects of excessive inventories

How to solve the problem?

Broken energy chains and war in Ukraine

What does it look like now? Central bank officials are trying to stifle high inflation, caused by the presence of “cheap money” in the market and the preponderance of demand over follow through. Interest rates have been raised several times in a short period of time, resulting in an unprecedented decline in the ability of businesses and final customers to borrow. This has also resulted in a rapid decline in demand, and companies have not had enough time to adjust. This situation is an economic roller coaster.

What’s more, companies are now hold ing significant inventories. Why? Fearing downtime and continued price increases, components were purchased in greater quantities than production required.

Everyone realises that increased inventory stocks present a number of problems. Prod ucts with a certain expiration date can result in the destruction of ingredients. Excessive inventory is also an increase in storage costs. Adequate storage space and people are needed to manage it properly – factors that in turn lead to increased storage costs.

www.marcopol.eu

Inflationary effects of COVID-19

However, as a result of the deep and rapid revision of interest rates and the reduction of credit and investment capac ity in the economy, there has been a sharp decline in demand for goods. Manufactur ers are faced with a dilemma – what to do with inventory that is not worth as much as it was when purchased?

Transportation most expensive in history

Increased demand for goods has led to an increase in freight prices. In some specific cases – even tenfold. According to tirsped.com.pl, the year on year differ ence in freight prices was more than 196%. The Shanghai – Gdansk route saw increases of almost 485%.

Marcopol, we can fulfill the same order within 60 days. Our own production, which as Marcopol we have, allows us not only to produce fasteners, but also to have advanced quality control, which is important in the case of component and labour shortages.

In the context of broken supply chains, there is also the issue of education and knowledge sharing. Placing emphasis on science majors and allowing apprentice ships at manufacturing plants such as Marcopol allows for the education of specialists – engineers who are able to design systems and solutions to produce better and better components in less and less time.

EASTERN EUROPE

Thanks to well organised logistics, we are able to provide customers with access to the goods they need, which we have in stock.

So what should be done besides selling goods? One way is to abandon thinking about price as the main determinant of purchasing. It is far better to focus on trans parency of the supplier and its supplies.

TERRITORY FOCUS

This, of course, translated into increases in commodity prices. In addition, there were problems with temporary port closures, precisely because of the pandemic outbreaks, which also did not facilitate efficient stocking. Increased demand with insufficient supply began to cause prices to rise, as there was no short age of customers willing to buy. The price increase fuelled further purchases –customers feared that with each delivery, goods would become more expensive, and found it worthwhile to prepare for this time by building up stocks.

Consolidate the orders!

At this point, it should be mentioned that the issue of inventory in commercial compa nies is not as burdensome as in the case of manufacturing companies, which, adapting to market requirements, stock up on currently needed fasteners. In addition to standard connectors, these are often custom made components. By declaring our needs in advance, we are able to ensure that our customers have the inventory to keep production running smoothly.

It is also important to keep in mind that the risks of Covid 19 is not the only black swan which we may encounter now. There’s a lot of factors which can delay the processing of orders placed outside Europe. All of this makes it worthwhile to shorten supply chains with manufacturers located in Europe.

A good solution is to invest in suppliers with factories in Western Europe. Closer cooperation with factories in Europe and Poland in particular allows for shorter lead times. Currently, for orders from China, lead times can be as long as 180 days. As

inventoriesIncreased present a number of problems, including shelf-life, storage costs and extra management

// Thanks goodslogistics,well-organisedtoweareabletoprovidecustomerswithaccesstothetheyneed,whichwehaveinstock.//

Added to these factors are the effects of the war in the East and the increase in uncer tainty, leading to a further decline in prod uct interest. As a result of this conflict, we are experiencing an increase in the price of energy resources – gas, coal and oil. This is leading to a reduction in demand, as both companies and customers have to contend with rising energy prices. This is another factor causing companies to further increase their inventories.

Long parts

Various production methods

Efficient production of small batches has been one of the long term objectives for Valenta ZT to pursue. While the company can produce small quantities relatively effectively, it is the internal logistics that determines a big portion of the cost. The smaller the batch is, the more important the logistics becomes.

Active on the fastener market since 1995, Valenta ZT supplies standard fasteners, not only to construction industry, but also to other fields of industry as engineering, power engi neering and civil engineering.

The main markets of Valenta ZT include the Czech Republic and European coun tries. Most stock items are shipped within one day and domestic customers will receive them on the next working day.

Two basic methods are employed by Valenta ZT to produce thread.

But then come situations when length tolerances are not defined by DIN 976. The general tolerances to DIN ISO 2768 m may apply and they are stricter than DIN 976, which is especially true for lengths 1,000mm and above. Then the customer may have a specific requirement for his application, which is not covered by the standards.

hile many users may consider threaded rod to be a simple product, the range of diameters, lengths and material requirements actually make it a complex product from the point of view of the producer and their logistics. Some of the threaded rod related topics are covered by this article from Valenta ZT, a company that makes threaded rod specials and trades with standard fasteners.

Valenta ZT is established as a valuable source of threeded rods to customers from Europe and increasingly also around the world. The company has its own production capacities for thread rolling, cutting, bending, cold drawing and CNC machining.

EASTERN EUROPE

MAKING THE COMPLEX STRAIGHTFORWARD

Small batches

The key range of goods of Valenta ZT includes standardised fasteners such as screws, bolts, nuts, washers, threaded rods as well as timber connectors, pole anchors, fence components and trapezoidal threaded rods and nuts.

Machining brings a lot more flexibility, less investment in tooling, and high pitch accuracy.Eachmethod is fundamentally different, but they are complementary in providing more options to the company.

valentazt.com/custom-production.html

Thread rolling versus machining

“Our strength is in the production of rods, studs, trapezoidal threaded spindles, threaded rods of large diame ters and lengths. We use a wide variety of materials from low grade steels to high strength alloys and stainless steels. Typical production lots range from dozens of larger parts to orders of tens of thousands of pieces.”

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Valenta ZT have been investing in long parts technology over the years. Long threaded rods, tie rods, linear movement spindles, spindles to customer drawings... they all fit into the long parts category. Diameters up to 200mm, lengths up to 6 metres, in some cases even more, thread types such as trapesoidal, round, buttress, customer defined, inch and of course metric of various pitches are available. These parts are often not fasteners as Valenta ZT uses the available technology for various types of products.

As well as standardised fasteners and other connectors, Valenta ZT makes special threaded rods and here explains how the latter can be a complicated product that requires expertise...

As part of the focus on threaded rod, Valenta ZT employs a range of production methods to meet various customer requirements. For example to produce DIN 976 M10x120, Valenta ZT can choose

LENGTH TOLERANCES FOR THREADED RODS AND SIMILAR PARTS LENGTH (MM) DIN 976 DIN ISO 2768-M EXAMPLE OF CUSTOMER REQUIREMENT 60 +- 0.6 +- 0.3 +0 -0.2 1000 +- 4.5 +- 0.8 +0 -0.5 DIN 976 STANDARD FOR THREADED ROD DIN ISO 2768-M GENERAL TOLERANCING STANDARD

Requirements for length tolerances of threaded rods are defined in DIN 976 (see table below). Stricter tolerances apply to lengths smaller than 1,000mm, while the tolerances for lengths 1,000mm and above are much looser. That goes together with the realities of production, where short lengths are usually made to request, while the lengths of 1, 2 and 3 metres are standard and mass produced.

TERRITORY FOCUS

The logistics of smaller batches of threaded rod can determine much of the cost

Length accuracy

Valenta ZT imports most of its DIN stan dard products from Asia. Much attention is paid to the selection of suppliers. The quality of products as well as production processes are checked regularly.

from five available methods, depending on the required quantity, material grade and length accuracy.

Thread rolling achieves high productiv ity, superior surface quality and usually improves mechanical properties of the rolled material.

Valenta ZT also supplies standard fasteners

FIND MORE www.eurotec.team/en/rockINFORMATION ROCK CONCRETE FORSCREWSFASTENINGWITHOUT DOWELS IN SOLIDInstallationSUBSTRATESwithout plugs High extraction-resistance values · No expansion effect, so smaller edge and centre distances are possible Broad range of applications thanks to a variety of screw heads and diameters ALWAYS A CONNECTIONSTRONG

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// We are currently at the stage of huge investments aimed at SOLVERAproductionincreasingsignificantlyourcapacityandachievingourgoalsinthefieldofsustainableproduction.//GAWEL

issued by the Polish Centre for Accredita tion in Rzeszów. Solvera also has its own office in USA and Taiwan. The US office is responsible for business development and distribution of its products in the American markets. Meanwhile, the office in Taiwan supports the firm with the purchasing of tools in Taiwan as well as support in sales in the Asian markets.

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EASTERN EUROPE TERRITORY FOCUS

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THE MAIN STAGES OF THE INVESTMENTS ARE: 37 machines, including 16 heading machines and 21 thread rollers Heat treatment furnace Automatic warehouse for semifinished products and a system for automatic management and control of the production process A line for lamellar zinc coatings Lines for galvanic coatings 12 optical sorting machines

“Our monthly production is about 250 million items while we employ over 300 people. The highest quality of production processes is guaranteed by IATF 16949, ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 certificates.”

The firm concludes: “Our goal for the coming years is to double production capacity to over 500 million units per month and to perform all production processes on our own, to guarantee the highest quality of the final product and the security of the supply chain for customers.”

www.solvera.pl

TECHNOLOGY S.A. PREPARES #ECOSMARTFACTORY PROJECT

The company also has its own Research Laboratory at its Research and Develop ment Centre, which has accreditation

“We are currently at the stage of huge investments aimed at significantly increas ing our production capacity and achieving our goals in the field of sustainable produc tion. The project called #EcoSmartFactory also fits into the strategy of industry 4.0.”

“For production, we use low alloy construction steels, high alloy chromium nickel steels, heat resistant steels, copper and aluminium alloys.

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ITS

An Industry 4.0-relevant project, titled #EcoSmartFactory, is set to be a game changer for Polish producer Solvera Gawel Technology S.A., bolstering the sustainability and versatility of its fastener manufacturing processes...

olvera Gawel Technology S.A. is a Polish company with many years of experience in the production of fasteners and among the European leaders in its industry. It specialises in the production of screws, bolts and rivets mainly through the implementation of individual orders and the needs of its customers in the automotive, household appliances and construction industries.

• Market leading brands • Large stock levels - depth and breadth of ranges • Next day delivery • Competitive prices • Sales office open 8:15 - 5:15pm, order online 24/7 • Dedicated wholesale to the merchant trade - absolutely no end user business Call 0844 571 22 22 Email sales@harclo.com Visit www.harclo.com RS00447

MADETRANSPORTATIONPRODUCTEASY

KRONUS offers wooden packaging for a variety of applications.

// The transition from disposable packaging to more sustainable alternatives is beneficial for business, as it is a positive decision for both the environment and the company.

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After decades in the industry, KRONUS is a specialist in wooden packaging production, creating solutions for product transportation that are simple and sustainable. KRONUS explains more…

Knowing this information, we can also talk about the costs. Consider this example; A company located in the EU has its own factories in Germany, The Netherlands and Belgium, and two suppliers from China. We assume that one packaging unit requires one Euro Pallet + three Pallet Collars + one Lid. That is, a full 90m3 truck will fit 99 packing units – 495 pieces of pack aging (Pallets + Collars + Lids). For sea containers the quantity of packing units is slightly different. When the empty packaging is returned from EU factories or sent to suppliers from China, the 495 pieces of packaging require only 4.72 loading metres.

fter more than 27 years in the market, KRONUS has become expert in the production of wooden packaging. Our acquired experience and knowledge, as well as the desire to improve and introduce new technologies, allow us to create the most suitable wooden packaging solution for the needs of our customers.

Based on the assumption that the transport price for 4.72 loading metres between the EU factories is €500, and is €2000 to China, once the wooden packaging is reused, you pay only €1.01 per piece when transporting empty cargo between EU factories and €4.04 per piece when sending it to China.

We offer wooden pallet collars, pallets and various acces sories, thus creating safe and environmentally friendly packag ing. Our packaging is suitable for a wide variety of storage and transportation applications, especially in the metalworking, mechanical engineering, automotive and light metal industries.

Advantages of using wooden pallet collars

Firstly, folded pallet collars are the most compact form of wooden packaging, which is important in the warehouse and when transporting the empty packaging back. When folded, one pack contains 108 units of the product, which will occupy less than 3 square metres. 108 pallet collars = 29 wooden boxes.

SPOTLIGHT KRONUS

An environmentally friendly solution

www.kronus.euPh:info@kronus.eu+37167515952

KRONUS is a Latvian company that cooperates with customers from more than 53 countries. Our work does not stop only with the production of wooden packaging and its accessories we provide an individual approach to customer needs, having created several delivery solutions to meet demands and provide the highest quality service.

The first purchase will be more expen sive, but you can use our packaging for up to 10 years and it will take much less space on the way back. If we compare this packaging solution with other options you can save money, space and time, including the potential cost savings over the 10 year lifespan of the products.

But the more your business grows and needs to use packag ing, the greater the world’s need for greener solutions. The transition from disposable packaging to more sustainable alternatives is beneficial for business, as it is a positive decision for both the environment and the company.

Industrial metalworking pack

In addition to these points, the packaging created by KRONUS meets international standards, so you will be able to deliver your goods in high quality packaging that is recognised all over the world.

KRONUS reusable wooden pallet

As more companies think about sustainable solutions – one of them is pallet collars and pallets. If you can save money and help nature, why not embrace this oppor tunity? Traditional packaging can contribute to different types of pollution, such as the high amount of carbon in the air, plus the waste that is left behind and does not decompose in nature.

In a volatile global market where supply chains are met with a never ending series of challenges and localisation has taken on renewed importance, Barton Cold Form were approached by a UK company who were sourcing parts from the Far East but were keen to onshore supply and for these parts to be produced, quite specifically, through a cold heading process.

Through this growth it is clear the passion to manufacture exceptional quality fastenings is still steadfast and the drive (accompanied by some out of the box thinking) to resolve each customers’ unique engineering challenges, remains.

When manufacturing for such a diverse portfolio of customers from industries including automotive (inc. the growing demand

FASTENER

The part, a mechanical gear wheel, was required in 420CS stainless steel – commonly deemed as non cold forgeable due to the hardness of the material and subsequent rapid deterio ration of tooling. However, the manufacturing team at Barton Cold Form were able to meet and exceed the requirement (even with very precise dimensions and extrusions) through a mix of material coating, dry lubricants, and coolant – and achieved this with good tool life. The result – one happy customer.

While the 70 plus skilled, dedicated staff at Droitwich are well equipped to handle rapid prototyping and high volume produc tion using cutting edge machinery (including 5 die cold form ers, thread rolling, SEMs, CNC turning and 3D printing) for more conventional fastening solutions, Barton Cold Form is rapidly gaining a reputation for increasingly complex requirements.

40 torque-expo.com UNITED KINGDOM – MIDLANDS

Since rebranded as Barton Cold Form, due to an increasingly diverse product range and thanks to improvements in capa bilities, the company’s last move to the current 5,100 m² facil ity in Droitwich Spa in 2006, was followed by the acquisition by Optimas in 2015 and a subsequent multi million dollar investment in plant, licenses and infrastructure.

Formed an incredible 90 years ago, Optimas Solutions UK manufacturing division, Barton ColdForm has seen many changes – none more so than the inherent progression and advancements in technology. However, to say the company started from humble beginnings would be no understatement, but a disservice to the passion and ideas that paved the way for its formation… Recent projects have found Optimas’ manufacturing arm essentially making the unmakeable – cold forming parts, that on paper do not lend themselves to this method of production. Droitwich facility is gaining a reputation for handling increasingly complex requirements MANUFACTURING

ncorporated in 1932 at the rear of the Bartons Arms public house in Aston, Birmingham — a public house that contin ues to serve customers to this day — the company, origi nally named the Barton Rivet Company, has relocated several times over this 90 year period, each move representing a much needed upgrade to capacity over the previous locale.

90 YEARS OF MANUFACTURING PROGRESSION

Though just one example, there is no question this is as far removed from those early days in the back room of a pub as you could imagine, but a perfect showcase of how far the company has come, and how dramatically it has evolved to meet modern day expectations.

// The

in the EV sector), agriculture, construction and defence, an unusual or bespoke solution is to be expected. Even so, recent projects have found Optimas’ manufacturing arm essentially making the unmakeable — cold forming parts, that on paper do not lend themselves to this method of production.

companies looking to reduce carbon footprint and emissions and meet sustainability targets.

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... Online Product Guide: www.avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk Unit 10, Riverside Business Park, St Anne’s, Bristol, BS4 4ED, UK. Tel: +44 (0) 117 - 972 8560 Fax: +44 (0) 117 - 972 8570 Email: sales@avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk

Cold forming is of course, far from a modern technology or process, in fact records highlight its discovery and first use in the early 1800s — however, the superior strength, consis tency and large scale reproducibility, lends itself to many manufacturing applications of today. Additionally, as the process itself produces such little waste (waste that can be mostly recycled), and with sustainability and localisation now key elements in the decision making process for many manufacturers, cold forming has found a new audience in

Partnered by manufacturing facilities across the Atlantic, and bolstered with integrated, on site engineering, inspection and quality labs, Optimas Solutions long standing fastener and cold forming expertise are then well placed to deal with even the most complex of customer requirements. And rivets too. www.international.optimas.com

Cold-forming produces such little waste that it has found a new audience in companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint

With quality, engineering expertise in spades and 50-plus years experience, Berdan Cıvata has the credentials to say that each nut is not the same, even if they are the right size...

• Al Haramain High Speed Railway project

With quality the priority, Berdan Cıvata has acheived required sector certificates such as; ISO 9001, ISO 10002, ISO 14001, ISO EN 17025, ISO 45001, EN 14399 1 (CE), EN 15048 1/2 (CE), EN 14399 3/4/5/6/10, DASt 021, AD 2000 Merkblatt W0, GOSTR etc. The firm adds: “We have never used Asian, Russian and Ukrainian raw materials in our production. Each process in our production is step forward to the next process after quality control process and these are controlled and recorded by ERP barcode system.”

• The world’s longest suspended bridge project “1915 Çanakkale”

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Berdan Cıvata (Bolt) employs 435 qualified employees, 80 of them leading expert engineers. This noteworthy number of engineers almost equals to total employee numbers of other fastener manufacturers. The firm says these significant engi neer staff numbers are important as it has carved out a repu tation for itself as an innovation leader in fasteners, in Turkey.

Berdan Civata has also been involved in some significant projects, including:

ONE STOP SHOP FOR STANDARD & SPECIAL PRODUCTION FASTENERS

ith a fully integrated factory and more than a half century of experience, Berdan Cıvata (Bolt) became a sought after fastener manufacturer for the high engineering knowledge required for fasteners with diameter ranges starting at M16 (5/8”) and up to M200 (8”).

• Robotic Arms & Automations in production

According to a survey of Turkish Time, Berdan Cıvata is the first company to make R&D expenses of 15 million TL in the sector in Turkey. With these R&D studies, Berdan has five patents, three new patent applications, four utility models and almost 50 different completed R&D projects.

“And we would like to warn all fastener purchasers about using accredited certified products. Because each nut is not the same even if they are the same sizes.”

•

Thanks to its vast experience, the fastener manufacturer says: “Whenever and wherever, and for all kinds of mega projects, we are ready to be the solution partner.

• 6.500 hours salt spray test resistant (~100 years corrosion resistant) coating, Cermacrome

www.berdancivata.com

• New ERP Modules

• 500 tons capacity for Europe’s strongest tensile test device

• Trans Anatolian natural gas pipeline project

• Kuwait International Airport project

• Europe’s second longest suspended bridge project “The Osmangazi Bridge”

The kind of sectors Berdan Civata manufactures for includes Energy (Wind, Solar, Nuclear, Geothermal, Hydro, Combined Cycle etc), Infrastructure (Highways, Railways, Ports, Airports, Bridges etc), Construction (Stadium, Factories, Steel Construc tions etc), Oil & Gas (Refineries, Valves, Pumping, Pipelines, Pressure Vessels & Boilers etc).

“In our accredited test laboratory, we are able to implement 20 different kind of tests and analyses such as; micro hardness test, tensile test (up to 500 tons), torque friction test (up to M75 diameter), chemical analysis (up to 20 elements), magnetic particul inspection test, and much more.”

Some of Berdan’s inventions & patents include:

• Konya Karapınar solar energy field project (1.400 MW Capacity) Akkuyu Nuclear power plant project 2.850 pc wind energy turbine projects

• A method which removes Hydrogen Embrittlement risks on high strength hot dipped galvanized fasteners

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“In our fully integrated factory, we have hot and cold forging facilities, CNC machining facilities, roll threading facilities, heat treatment facilities (hardening, tempering and normalisation), surface coating facilities (hot dipped galvanization, electro galvanization, zinc flake coating, teflon/Xylan coating etc), R&D centre and an ISO EN 17025 accredited test laboratory. Our heat treatment facilities are accredited according to AMS 2750 Aero nautics & Space standard by Performance Review Institute.

• Anamur Northern Cyprus water supply project

FASTENER MANUFACTURINGTURKEY–MERSIN

High performance turbines developed in house are core. Available in various performance classes with state of the art drives, these fans are superior to comparable fans in terms of their efficiency. Together with the large selection of heating elements, a wide range of power combinations are possible. Also new are the drive on, optimally insulated floor in sand wich structure and a completely revised door construction.

REINHARDT, SPECIALIST IN THERMAL ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS

Theregulations.”newlydeveloped

Reinhardt says its products are able to handle significantly higher demands of the accuracy of its systems. This is achieved through appropriate design measures and high quality measurement technology. The firm adds that temperature uniformity, optimum performance and long life cycles are characteristic of its ranges.

“A system adapted to customer needs always delivers the best results. This is how we ensure that all customer require ments are covered. These range from a wide variety of heating media to the most unusual applications.

Reinhardt standard industrial furnace series, “Titan”, can be a value alternative to the special industrial furnace. Reinhardt’s “Titan” covers almost all application areas in heat treatment. The basic idea is a modular system in which the oven can be easily configured for the respective application. This means that everything can be covered with this series, from powder coating drying to the heat treatment of metal. A DIN EN 1539 version is also available.

The firm adds: “Quality is our top priority. From the first conversation to the finished project our full attention is given to the customer and his products. Our goal is to provide advice at eye level in every situation, so that we can guarantee lasting quality at the highest level and meet almost all requirements. Decades of experience speak for themselves. This well founded knowledge is reflected in every single employee and largely determines our actions. However, we don’t stop there. We are consistently refining our products, to continue to act as one of the global market leaders.

High accuracy, high temperatures, long lifecycles and optimum performance, Reinhardt’s products come in a range of sizes and levels, but quality is always the foundation, it says… craft is to deliver the 100% right product, with the highest precision and absolute quality to all our customers. That is what sets Reinhardt GmbH apart.

Reinhardt adapts it ovens to the requirements of its customers, ensuring the right system delivers the right results.

FASTENER MANUFACTURINGGERMANY–VILLINGEN-SCHWENNINGEN // Our

“Our craft is to deliver the 100% right product, with the highest precision and absolute quality to all our customers. That is what sets Reinhardt GmbH apart.

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“And our success proves us right: till today we have planned, manufactured and delivered thousands of thermal engineering solutions. Worldwide!”

“We adapt our ovens to your requirements and it doesn’t matter to us whether it is a classic batch oven, a continuous system or a paternoster system. Our solutions can be used universally in the temperature range up to around 650 degrees Celsius. Reinhardt is also always in line with current standards and

Reinhardt’s standard ovens can be used universally in the temperature range up to 300 °C (preheating, tempering, drying, powder drying, hardening, etc). The temperature accuracy corresponds to the usual requirements of + 5°C, but this can be increased if required. All Reinhardt standard industrial furnaces can be designed according to current standards and regulations such as DIN EN 1539, DIN EN 746, DIN 17052 1 if required.

s a medium sized company with headquarter in Villin gen Schwenningen, in the Black Forest, Reinhardt GmbH is one of the global market leaders for thermal engineering solutions up to 650°C in the areas of industrial furnaces, heat treatment, coating and slush moulding systems. In the plastics area, the systems are used for preheating, drying and tempering, and also for conditioning and humidifying.

With the philosophy “less is more”, a more than adequate basic configuration was created in the electronics. A modern PLC with a wide range of equipment options such as e.g. recipe management or data logging is also a possible option.

www.reinhardt.gmbh

Valenta ZT s.r.o. Nedomická 494, 277 16 Všetaty, The Czech Republic Call for information +420 315 698 020 sales@valentazt.cz www.valentazt .com 2021 STANDARDTHREADEDCAPACITYEXTENDEDRODSLEADSCREWSSTUDSFASTENERSReinhardt GmbH | Güterbahnhofstraße 1 | 78048 Villingen-Schwenningen WITH OUR INDUSTRIAL OVENS, WE CAN MEET YOUR VARIOUS NEEDS AND REQUIREMENTS. TALK TO US, WE HAVE THE SOLUTION. CLINCHING FASTENER SPECIALIST t: e: w: +86-139-2920-4841 zhuyb@grandametal.com www.grandametal.com Main Products: • Clinch & Sheet Metal Fasteners • Self-Clinching Nuts, Standoff, Studs • Welding Studs and Standoff • Cage Nut • Rivet Bushes • Brass Inserts for Plastics • Rivet Nuts • Customised CNC/Cold forming hardware. Strengths: • Produced in China • IATF 16949 Certiﬁcate • PPAP and IMDS free • Optical Sorting 100% • Full range of clinching fasteners

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In January 2021, after corona related short time work, the managing owner Carl Philip Schulte showed courage and fore sight. He ordered two stamping presses with a press force of 500 tons, one stamping machine with a press force of 250 tons and a state of the art mass finishing centre. In total, the invest ment was a weighty €4 million.

One-stop shop

An independent tool shop, as well as motivated and well trained specialists are vital parts of the company’s success. rfks also benefits from a comprehensive service thanks to its large warehouse for raw materials, modern packaging lines and a logistics centre for stock goods. These form the foundation of the customer oriented product and service portfolio, from which in particular the screw wholesalers, the automotive industry and its suppliers, screw and dowel manufacturers, mechanical engi neering and steel construction companies as well as many

Significantly ramping up production capacity, rfks’ 2022 investment will help the Plettenberg-based manufacturer service customers and their varied needs… MANUFACTURINGGERMANY–PLETTENBERG

Aiming to provide “everything from a single source”, rfks offers, in addition to the wide range of DIN/ISO washers, a very large production range for special or drawing parts, which are manufactured on the state of the art machine park.

FASTENER

Both 500-ton punching machines are in their place in the rfks production hall. The picture shows the status connection of the peripheralcorrespondingdevices.

RFKS INVESTS €4 MILLION

rfks operations manager Jens Leuschke (left) senior boss Hela Schulte and sales manager Peter Schlütter observed the delivery of the new 500 ton punching machine.

The delivery and installation of the two 500 ton presses from the manufacturer Andritz Kaiser from Baden Württemberg demanded absolute precision work in order to manoeuvre the 120 ton machines the last few metres to their location in the rfks production hall.

+ FK Schulte (rfks) is one of the leading manufacturers of stamped, embossed and bent parts in Europe. The family company was founded in 1938 and is based in Pletten berg in Sauerland where it today employs over 160 people who process more than 30,000 tons of flat steel annually.

“This enables us to meet the increased requirements and needs of our customers,” says rfks sales manager Peter Schlüt ter. “With the new machines we have increased rfks’ produc tion capacity by 30%.”

rfks has recently been investing a large amount, in the millions, in the expansion and modernisation of its machine park.

Three new stamping machines and a vibratory finishing centre were purchased.

// With the new machines we have increased rfks’ production capacity by 30%. //

The Plettenberg company has a large product range of stan dard washers according to DIN/ISO, sealing covers and screw locks as well as a large number of special stamped parts.

“The new stamping machines were by mid May ready for production,” adds Plant Manager Jens Leuschke.

FASTENER MANUFACTURINGGERMANY–LÜDENSCHEID

Miniaturised connections

With TOBI and SixFix, SCHRIEVER has developed two innova tive heavy duty screw drives. The TOBI® driver system consists of the bit and the screw head drive, which has an increased contact area, an axial alignment between screw and tool, as well as a holding function for securely holding the screw head in place with the bit. Users are encouraged to reduce the wear and tear on their tools, take advantage of the multiple uses and test this ingenious system for themselves.

Expert in plastic connections

• Axial alignment: 100% axial alignment of the screw driving tool to the axis ensures an optimal power transmission. By preventing the screw from ‘wobbling’, you’ll never have trou ble finding the connection. Downtimes are also a thing of the past, with fully automatic screw connections.

PURPOSE-BUILT SCREWS FOR EXPERT & HEAVY-DUTY USE

Small, specialised, professional: miniaturisation and lightweight construction are two ubiquitous terms currently used in connective technology. SCHRIEVER manufactures thread forming screws for thermoplastics, starting from a thread diameter of just 1.0 mm. Micro screws for light metals and steel materials are available upon request.

With the development of small and micro screws, SCHRIEVER is continuously developing the very smallest components to meet growing demand across various indus tries for special connective solutions. To ensure that SCHRIEVER can best fulfil these exceptional requirements, it has significantly expanded its inventory of manufacturing technology and test equipment for the S Mikro® format.

• Less wear and tear: Enjoy your tools for longer with increased durability thanks to better axial alignment, larger and stronger contact surface for the bit/screw, higher quality, and fewer possibilities for handling errors.

ALL THE BENEFITS AT A GLANCE:

Expert in innovative heavy-duty applications

SixFix = One screw head, endless possibilities

Light, tried and tested – but gentle on the material: Thermo plastic connections offer particular challenges when it comes to construction, assembly and resilience. But that’s now a thing of the past, says SCHRIEVER, which has created the ideal connector for professional use: the Schriever STSplus® screw. To ensure that anyone can work with the Schriever STSplus®, SCHRIEVER experts are on hand to help with practical advice. The SCHRIEVER research lab is constantly optimising the connective technology and construction processes, offering customers free information.

A ‘master of all trades’, the screw head fits six types of bits. This completely redesigned SixFix screw head offers users the possibility of tightening screws with six different screw drivers. Whether it’s a Phillips, Torx, Allen key or slot head, or whether they are a DIY enthusiast or a professional, they can avoid ever being caught out with the wrong screwdriver, says the brand.

www.schriever-schrauben.de

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SCHRIEVER’s inventory has increased to meet demand

Mini- and micro-screws, thermoplastic screws and specialists for innovative heavy-duty applications, such as TOBI and SixFix: SCHRIEVER is a family-run business that supports its customers all the way from design to assembly with its expert knowledge…

• Holds the screw in place: For any hard to reach locations or overhead assembly, the screwdriver bit securely ‘holds’ the screw in place for added ease and safety.

ased in Lüdenscheid, Central Germany, SCHRIEVER has long been a specialist in thread forming screws, micro screws and special screwdrivers. As well as producing screws especially for plastics, light metals and duroplastics, SCHRIEVER also makes expert screws for thin sheet metal. SCHRIEVER manufactures individual production runs, offering a large selection of screw heads, drivers and thread shapes. Even small production runs are possible, with short delivery times.

• Larger contact surface: The larger the contact surface through which the screwdriver transmits torque to the screw head, the lower the surface pressure or stresses in the tool, reducing wear and tear. Compared to a TX bit, the TOBI® offers a contact surface approx. 10 times larger, says the brand.

CLAMPING LEVERS, TENSION LEVERS AND EXCENTRIC TENSION LEVERS // INDEX BOLTS AND BLOCKING HANDLES // BALL AND SPRING INDEX PLUNGERS // BRIDGE HANDLES // START AND SOFTTOUCH KNOBS // LOCKING HANDLES // CROSS AND THREE-STAR KNOBS // KNURLED KNOBS // WING KNOBS // BALL KNOBS // CYLINDER HANDLES // MUSHROOM KNOBS AND T-HANDLES // HAND WHEELS AND CRANK HANDLES // LEVELLING FEET //HINGES // RUBBER METALBUFFERS // LATCHES GRIP IT. USE CONTROLIT. IT. BENEFIT FROM THE VERSATILITY OF PLASTIC CONTROL ELEMENTS. TINY HUGEPARTS.IMPACT. BENEFIT FROM THE VERSATILITY OF PLASTIC STANDARD ELEMENTS. SCREWS // NUTS // WASHERS AND SPACER ROLLS // SPACER BOLTS // CABLE TIES // KNURLED KNOBS // WING KNOBS // THREADED RODS www.baecker.eu dk Lk d1 t

is continuing to grow and develop its machining capacity through investment and acquisition and welcomes the addi tional skill base that the Collins fasteners employees will bring to the “Thecompany.Midlands is a hotbed of machining and sub contract engineering companies and it’s important that we continue to develop and encourage those skills that we all depend upon.

Collins Fasteners is a locally based engineering company trading since 1995 that specialises in the drilling and cross drilling of fasteners, predominantly for the rail industry and associated sectors.

Director Vic Waddison commented that Victory Fasteners

MANUFACTURINGUNITEDKINGDOM–MIDLANDS

West Midlands fastener supplier and manufacturer Victory Fasteners has recently bought a local engineering company to continue to develop and encourage the skills that are vital for the continued success of the fastener industry…

“It’s not easy running a business with the constraints that we all face today, and it makes for challenging times ahead. We feel that the prudent decisions that we have made during this current year have given us a solid foundation to continue to grow and build upon the excellent reputation that we have established with our distribution customers.”

The move has seen Victory Fasteners invest further in semi-automatic drilling stations

FASTENER

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ictory Fasteners has successfully completed the acqui sition of Collins Fasteners, a specialist subcontract engineering company.

Victory has already invested in its capital equipment purchasing two semi automatic drilling stations which were specifically designed. The stations are now fully commissioned and already proving to be a shrewd investment, the firm says.

VICTORY ACQUIRES COLLINS FASTENERS

Find out more by contacting Victory Fasteners directly. www.victoryfasteners.com

The operations and staff of Collins Fasteners will be moved into the manufacturing unit of Victory and will be fully opera tional in early September 2022. They we will continue to welcome sub contract drilling under the banner of Victory Fasteners.

1W FASTENERSBREATHEE ® Insulation fixings by pgb-Europe S-IPH & S-IPT S-IPH: insulation fixing + reinforced plastic nail. Insulation plug with 60mm disc and short expansion segment • The plastic nail prevents marks on the plaster surface. • Simple hammer-in for quick installation. • Low anchorage depth reduces the drilling depth. • The plug will expand when the nail is hammered-in. S-IPT: insulation fixing + metal scew and cap Insulation fixing with ETA assessment for all base materials • Double expansion zone for optimal hold and flexibility in all materials. • The solid disc of 60mm ensures perfect fitting & high resistance. • The plastic cap around the head ensures low point thermal transmittance. • The plug will expand when the screw is screwed-in. For more information: www.pgb-europe.com

Enquiries should be directed to Owlett Jaton’s sales offices or the Field Sales Team. Contact details can be found at... www.owlett-jaton.com/contact

FASTENER MANUFACTURING Scan code to find out more! WedgeWWW.HEICO-GROUP.COMLockingSystems High quality demandingsecurityanti-vibrationforthemostofboltedjointapplications! The best value to secureHEICO-LOCKbolts!®

The team has decades of manages

experience and

Owlett Jaton’s specials team has many decades of experience in supplying special fasteners, covering a wide variety of applications.

specials

wlett Jaton is among the UK and Ireland's leading wholesale supplier of fasteners, fixings and associated products to the distributor and merchant trade. In addition to its large stockholding of standard products it also supplies a wide range of special fasteners to customers’ own specifications. This includes parts to drawing, in all material grades, head styles, and thread forms; special parts to drawing can also be supplied.

the manufacturing process for customers

Working closely with their customers, the team provides a fully bespoke service, ensuring that all specifications are met. The team provides the technical and documentary backup required to be a reliable partner in this important area of fastener supply. The process includes managing the manufacturing process, through to fastener testing and providing the supporting certification. Short lead times and quick turnaround for urgent jobs are also part of the service, helping to reduce costs and keeping downtime to a minimum. This level of service all adds up to convenience, efficiency, and peace of mind for the customer, ensuring the special fasteners are supplied right first time.

Owlett Jaton’s specials service includes full batch traceability, backed up by its ISO 9001:2015 quality systems. Additional certifications such as Initial Sample Inspection Reports (ISIR) and Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) are also available.

EXTRA SPECIAL LEVEL OF SERVICE FROM OWLETT-JATON

To support their supply of special fasteners, Owlett Jaton also provides a wide range of secondary processes, including all plating finishes and special coatings, along with thread patching and machining.

torque-expo.com51 UNITED KINGDOM – STAFFORDSHIRE

“With the two sides of the business complimenting each other, we are a complete supply solution. If you’re having problems with suppliers, lead times or availability, we can help. And we will do what we say.”

www.rapidfast.co.uk

“Manufacturing recruitment has been a challenge. We’ve

Bringing in expertise and machines in an offsite machine shop, Rapid has developed its manufacturing business to become a sizeable chunk of its turnover (approximately 30%) in a very short time. Torque Magazine was an early visitor to the manu facturer, back in 2020, and we returned in 2022 to see Rapid Industrial Fasteners’ latest step forward.

Torque Magazine returns to chart the progress of Rapid Industrial Fasteners and speaks with Managing Director Richard White and Operations Director Jason Hayfield

MANUFACTURINGUNITEDKINGDOM–MIDLANDS

RAPID ON RELATIONSHIPSREPUTATION,ANDRELIABILITYR

Controlled expansion

FASTENER

Developing partnerships with customers, rather than chasing many orders from different customers, has proven a shrewd strategy for Rapid Industrial Fasteners. Jason Hayfield, Opera tions Director, elaborates: “We develop relationships, earn their trust and give customers confidence that we will do what we say. We integrate with them and develop close working relationships.

Rapid’s export market has also seen expansion, with products now heading into the Netherlands, France, Spain, Germany and North Macedonia: “We have the systems in place to look after customers and do exports simply. We know what works and we’ve done our research.

Crucially, Rapid has added more lead roles in production and brought in more experienced staff.

Reputation and recruitment

52 torque-expo.com

While the recent expansion is primarily for the distribution side of Rapid Industrial Fasteners, the improved logistics benefit the machine shop too, which is now within one minute’s drive. All Rapid’s finished product goes through the distribution ware house before arriving with customers.

And what of the future? Following the recent expansion of the distribution facility, is the machine shop next in line to be increased in size?

Rapid’s machine shop stayed open throughout the Covid lock downs, where it picked up a lot of work. Things have stayed busy since and more personnel and machines have been added since Torque Magazine’s last visit in 2020. The firm has enhanced its quality system with even tighter controls on material handling in accordance with ISO standards.

“We’re looking for controlled expansion. We’re not reckless and we’re not desperate.”

“We are getting Ministry of Defence orders now, we’re working on renewable energy projects, offshore work…”

White answers: “We’re are edging close to capacity, however the next move won’t be simply adding more machinery, it will be focused on upgrading to faster, more capable machines. This year, however, we will consolidate what we’ve done.

Attracting quality employees has become easier as the firm’s reputation has grown: “We mean business. People can see what we can do. Taking part in an exhibition (Torque Expo Telford) was a new step for us. Part of the reason for being there was to improve our standing and perception. We’re proving that we are here to stay.”

apid Industrial Fasteners had amassed 39 years’ experi ence as a fastener distributor and wholesaler before it made the milestone move to add manufacturing to the business, in 2019.

improved the website to give more profile and awareness to the manufacturing side.”

“The manufacturing side benefits from the logistics of distri bution. We move a lot of product and that’s a capability that most manufacturers don’t have,” says White. “Many manufacturers do not hold stock as well. We are unique in the UK fastener market.”

“We’d been in the last place so long that you build bits on here and there – it was like a Meccano set – adding racking in obscure places to maximise space,” explains Managing Director Richard White.

This time, the firm has moved the distribution part of its business to a new larger unit – only a stone’s throw from its machine shop. The new distribution site is approximately 18,000 ft², a sizeable expansion on the old unit, which was closer to 10,000 ft².

RapidIndustrialIndustrialFastenersareaproudBritishManufacturerof fastenersandturnedparts. Operatingfromaseparatefacilitylessthan¼mileawayfromourdistribution centre,wemanufactureallstandardthreadedfastenersinawiderangeof steel,stainlesssteel,brassandexoticalloysincludingINCONEL,DUPLEXand SUPERDUPLEX.Additionally,ourfastenerengineersareabletoproduce complexbespokepartstodrawingandcustomerspecification. Rapidhavebeenabletoapplyahighlyresponsiveandservicedrivenculture toourmanufacturingphilosophythathasbeengainedfromsupplyinghighly demandingendusersforover40years. Itisoftotalimportancethatwedowhatwesaywhenwesay.Tothatend,we operateaTcardsystemtoplanandmanageourmanufacturingordersso wecanbetransparentwithourcustomersandcommunicateregular progressupdates. BRITISHFASTENER MANUFACTURER THINKFASTENERS THINKRAPID HeadOffice Unit2, StourValeRoad, Stourbridge, DY98PP 01215013903 sales@rapidfast.co.uk www.rapidfast.co.uk ManufacturingHub Unit27, LyeValleyIndustrialEstate Stourbridge, DY98PP

FASTENER MANUFACTURINGITALY

More than 7,000 different washers, all made in Italy, arebymanufacturedGrowermetal

Furthermore, together with the outsourcing processes such as galvanic zinc plating, zinc nickel plating, nickel plating, copper plating e phosphating, Growermetal offers two flagship in house treatments: the mechanical zinc plating and the zinc flake coat ing. High quality and high performance coatings which use respectively original MacDermid® chemicals and original Dörken products, providing a broad range of base coats and top coats.

In order to meet the needs of every industry sector, nowadays the overall production has over 4,500 washers manufactured according to DIN, UNI, ASME, NFE and other international stan dards and more than 2,500 washers and special parts manufac tured according to customer specifications.

Part of this broad production range will be at the centre of the company’s participation in the next Fastener Fair Italy, which will take place from 30 November to 1 December 2022 at Fiera Milano City. The showcase dedicated to the fastener and fixing industry represents an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between Growermetal and all its stakeholders, introducing some of the latest products of the security washer range. This is particularly important since the event and the innovative products displayed will attract national and international visitors from various manu facturing fields, connecting professionals worldwide.

At the same time, the company pushes towards enhancing service to its supply chain. The automated warehouse is a key element when looking for an optimised handling of the goods and an efficient packing service: located inside the headquarters, the storage department completes the synergy and the automi sation of the different areas of Growermetal.

The benefits of this system are several: production and deliv ery times are shorter, efficiency is implemented, the 360° moni toring combined with the quality laboratories guarantee the same excellence at every stage and, finally, the overall service opens the way to new possibilities of customisation.

There are many ways to increase the efficiency of a washer manufacturer: Investing in cutting-edge technologies and treatments, creating a flexible service, offering customised washer solutions and working with experienced engineers... all of which are important factors to take into account when organising production. Growermetal aims to realise them through its in-house manufacturing process.

The intent is to reach higher levels of flexibility, whilst enhanc ing product quality as the continuously evolving fastener market requires. In a fast moving industry focused on continual technical innovations, Growermetal offers reliable washer solutions for a broad spectrum of application fields. These include automotive, railway, aerospace, electromechanics, construction, oil and gas, transportation and power generation.

From the selection of raw materials to the finished product, Growermetal’s widely verticalised manufacturing process repre sents the expression of the company values and objectives: a model that puts efficiency at the centre, in order to create a busi ness based on productivity, reliability and high quality service.

54 torque-expo.com

In fact, the presence of the company extends far beyond the Italian boundaries. Counting on 70 years of history and having two international sales branches in Brazil and North America, Growermetal has become a consolidated presence in the inter national scene, with a process that is IATF 16949, ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and EN 9100 certified.

Last but not least, another strength of the business lies in the experienced team of experts and engineers which adds value to any project, from concept to production. These professionals help the company to maximise efficiency, finding the most functional designs and materials, saving precious time and reducing costs, while maintaining quality and customisation of every product.

IN-HOUSE PRODUCTION FOR OPTIMISED AND CUSTOMISED FASTENING SOLUTIONS

These results have been achieved thanks to investments that have improved the in house manufacturing process. From design to blanking, coining, wire rolling and treatments, every depart ment is connected and every stage is monitored to create high quality products according to the optimum quality standards.

ounded in 1950, Growermetal is a leading manufacturer of security washers, spring washers and blanked parts according to customer’s specification. Based in Calco, in the North of Italy, the company has always been run by the Cattaneo family, which has created an increasingly centralised service.

Talking about flexibility, the tooling department is equipped with CAM CAD applications and cutting edge technologies including CNC drilling milling machines, EDMs, CNC grinding machines and CNC lathes, in order to achieve the highest preci sion of the mould and the parts produced.

These all contribute to the customer’s involvement during the different stages of the process: working side by side with partners allows the company to study, design and manufacture tailored projects, building a mutual trust and a long lasting relationship.

www.growermetal.com

services and pursuing increasingly efficient processes

56 torque-expo.com

customers. The manufacturer discusses automisation, energy and keeping ahead

full customisation for customers, from products to packaging, Güde is fixed

delivering a wide

look

FOCUSING ON LEAN LOGISTICS

competitors… Digitisation and automisation help keep processes lean and efﬁcient at Güde // Added services have never been more important and we are proud of our ability to adapt to each customer’s FASTENERrequirements.individual// MANUFACTURINGGERMANY–PLETTENBERG

Offering on range of to after its of its

During the whole production process digitisation and automatisation helps to keep the process lean and efficient. The shop floor works on ghost shifts which is based on optical laser technology and automised machinery, the CAQ software guides the quality department, while the barcode system serves for online information.

Güde’s recently opened facility in Mikołów, Poland

Sperrkant washer washer toothed

Güde GmbH Dieselstraße 8 58840 GermanyPlettenberg +49 2391 - 91 sales@guede.net90-0 Spezialfabrik für Schraubenund Wellensicherungen www.guede.net Sperrkant spring washer A / Z DIN 127 ASME B18.21.1 A / B open / ﬂat DIN 137 A / B curved / crinkled DIN 128 A / B convexed / corrugated DIN 74361 limes type lockwasherconicalC Centring ring DIN 7993 A / B for shafts / for drillholes

New investments such as high pressure compressors in state of the art technology are now linked to the heating system, which are supporting the solar panels and the two block heat and power plants.

Sperrkant spring washer

lock washer DIN 6905 captive

Using custom made machines and tooling, Güde’s production facility ships up to 140 pallets of products every day to whole salers and distributors worldwide.

NF E 25-511 S / M / B / K slim / medium / wide / toothed DIN 6796 conical washer DIN 6798 A / I / V outside / inside / countersunk DIN 6797 A / I / V outside / inside / countersunk DIN 7967 row 1 / row 2 Doubled

S / M / B / K / Z slim / medium / wide / toothed Contact

Railway washers

Conquering the latest rises in energy costs, in 2021 a compa nywide energy cadaster was made to look for improvement and to take actions to save energy.

“Added services have never been more important and we are proud of our ability to adapt to each customer’s individual requirements.”Aspartofthis customised service, Güde offers personalised labelling in quantities specified by customers, as well a applying the customer’s specific label to the packaging. This enables the production line to be more streamlined as it avoids multiple unnecessary packaging processes, which in turn reduces total procurement costs.

Find out more directly from the firm at the official site. www.guede.net

Ghost shifts and automisation

Energy and strategy

torque-expo.com57

captive

As part of a long term strategy Güde recently opened a new facility in Mikołów, Poland, in order to increase its production capacity, be even more efficient as a supplier and to be able to act quickly according to the market requirements.

ith an emphasis on added services, lean logistics and high quality products, Plettenberg based washer manufacturer Güde produces safety washers, wire bended parts as well as screw and fastening devices.

Along with a modern IT system all soft and hardware helps to react faster, diminish human error, as well as improve reliability and accuracy. In addition, the company also uses an Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) system, which aims to be a more efficient communication path between the company and its customers.

“We are constantly making sure we have all the latest technol ogy available,” comments Lutz Güde, Managing Director at Güde GmbH. “This means we can offer full customisation to our customers, in terms of products, quantities, as well as packaging, which we need to stay one step ahead of our competitors.

One of the projects Bosch plans to fund with this invest ment is the construction of two new development centres – in Reutlingen and Dresden – at a combined cost of over 170 million euros. In addition, the company will spend 250 million euros over the coming year on the creation of an extra 3,000 square meters of clean room space at its wafer fab in

More parking facilities will be built in cities and more battery charging facilities will be added in parking lots, gas stations and expressway service areas, among other spots, to meet NEVs’ charging demand, the vice minister noted.

Measures will also be taken to boost the green and low carbon transition of the auto industry, with efforts to stim ulate NEVs consumption and improve the recycling system for scrapped vehicles.

CHALLENGES ENDURE BUT FUTURE REMAINS BRIGHT FOR AUTOMOTIVE

THERE WILL BE MORE ON THE AUTOMOTIVE FASTENER MARKET IN NOVEMBER-DECEMBER’S PRINT EDITION OF TORQUE MAGAZINE.

Demand for SFS products remained high over the period regardless of the considerable uncertainty due to the war in Ukraine, sustained disruption in supply chains, further waves of Covid 19 in Asia and Europe and an environment of rising interest rates and inflation.

…

The auto industry also has significant innovations planned to push the sector into more sustainable territory, not least the drive towards electric vehicles. One significant automotive fastener supplier, Bulten, recently announced it had secured a contract for a new global electric vehicle (EV) platform, to be produced in China. The order value is estimated at approx imately SEK 155 million a year at full production.

Steps have been initiated to build a unified national market for automobiles that is rule based and features interconnectivity, with efforts to remove local protection ism in the new energy vehicle (NEV) market and promote NEV sales in rural areas.

MeanwhileDresden.China has unveiled a slew of measures to invig orate automobile circulation and boost auto consumption. The Ministry of Commerce and 16 other government depart ments have detailed 12 specific measures in six aspects to inject impetus into the auto sector, as announced by Vice Minister of Commerce Sheng Qiuping at a press conference.

Bosch is among those investing billions to ease the semi conductor shortage and capitalise on the strategic impor tance of the sector. By 2026, Bosch plans to invest another three billion euros in its semiconductor division as part of the IPCEI funding program on microelectronics and communications technology. “Microelectronics is the future and is vital to the success of all areas of Bosch business,” says Dr. Stefan Hartung, chairman of the Bosch board of management. “With it, we hold a master key to tomorrow’s mobility, the internet of things, and to what we at Bosch call technology that is ‘Invented for life’.”

BUSINESS BAROMETER

Perhaps more significantly, the firm began work with Polestar on Polestar 0, the development project aiming to build a climate neutral electric car by 2030 by eliminating emissions in the supply chain. Bulten’s contribution will be the delivery of climate neutral and highly functional fasten ers. This can be achieved through a combination of energy efficient materials and processes, as well as renewable energy supply throughout the value chain.

Automotive’s stubborn challenges are still marking the sector out as troubled, but forces are at work to solve itsTheproblems.worldwide semiconductor shortage has undoubtedly hit the automotive market. Anecdotal reports indicate that higher value vehicles have been prioritised for the few chips available by car manufacturers seeking the maximum return on their limited semiconductor supplies.

n SFS’ first half of 2022 financial report, the group said that growth targets had been exceeded in all regions and end markets, with the exception of the automotive industry.

Reporting by Torque Magazine and ChinaFastener.com

58 torque-expo.com

Progress for the automotive industry has been slow in recent years as it struggles with a number of challenges. Yet the forecast remains hugely positive for the sector.

The move to unleash the auto industry’s potential is part of China’s policies aimed at maintaining economic stability, Sheng said, noting that auto sales play a vital role in boost ing consumption and stabilising economic growth.

SUPPLY CHAIN INNOVATION

We know, numbers don’t matter, but they can tell the success of a company and the value of its products. Discover them all on www.wearenotnumbers.it

650+ CARPENTRY WOOD SCREWS

WE NUMBERSNOTARE

SHOW PREVIEW

After four years, Fastener Fair Italy returns to its live exhibition format and to the city of Milan. Held over two days, it offers visitors and exhibitors the opportunity to network and build sales.

www.fastenerfairitaly.com

60 torque-expo.com SHOW DATES: 30 November – 1 December Fiera Milano City, Italy.

The previous show was attended by a total of 2,700 visitors, including managers, engineers and buyers, and organisers are hoping to see similar numbers again in 2022. Fastener Fair Italy 2022 will cover free seminars on innovations, topics and trends relevant to the entire industrial supply chain. These sessions will be led by industry experts and consist of updates on technical, regulatory and market issues. The seminar programme will be open to both exhibitors and visitors.

is expected to be a strong representation of companies from Italy, Germany and Turkey with some of the big names in the industry scheduled to exhibit including: Ambrovit S.p.A., Bontempi VIBO S.p.A., Bralo Italia, Carlo Salvi S.p.A., CHAVESBAO (CHAVES BILBAO S.A.), Di Costa Guiseppe Srl, Dimac Srl, Fastbolt Schraubengroßhandels GmbH, Lederer GmbH, MEVI ITALIA Srl, Piloni Srl, SOM FASTENERS, Teknoform Bağlantı Elemanları San. ve Tic. A.Ş., VIPA S.p.A., VISION Srl, VITAL S.p.A. and many more.

astener Fair Italy 2022 is returning to Milan, four years after the last face to face event. The exhibition represents an opportunity for national and international manufac turers and distributors in the fastener and fixing industry to showcase their products and services, as well as to present the latest innovations and technological developments.

Liljana Goszdziewski, Portfolio Director for the Fastener Fairs in Europe, comments: “We are thrilled to see the return of face to face events and looking forward to welcoming the fastener and fixing industry at Fastener Fair Italy 2022. The strong exhibitor participation in the show is a positive signal indicating the industry's need to return to in person events to facilitate business networking and trade and enable new sales opportunities. Visitors attending Fastener Fair Italy will be able to discover modern solutions for the fastener and fixing sector and get real insights into the latest technologies provided by the main industry suppliers.”

MEETING IN MILAN

The live show is due to run from 30 November to 1 December and marks the strategic importance of the sector to Italy and Europe. The international event will be held at the Fiera Milano City exhibition centre (Hall 3), where approximately 160 compa nies from 15 countries have confirmed their participation. There

Free visitor registration is now available via the website.

FASTENER FAIR ITALY

Huge Range of Metric & Imperial Blanks Grades 4.6, 8.8, 10.9, 12.9; R, S, T, V, SAE8 Most Materials including Exotics UK’s largest stocks of BSF & BSW Special Head Shapes BSmithullough Over 150 years’ experience in UK MANUFACTURING Your Non-Standard is our Standard! Tel: 01942 52025 Tel: 01942 sales@smithbullough.com www.smithbullough.com Tel: 01942 520250 METRIC & IMPERIAL SPECIAL FASTENERSNEW Wedgelock / NylonSelf-LockingPellet Specials in most materials & grades NEW - Drilling > 0.8mm

OCTOBER issue 078 ENHANCED DIGITAL

Fastener machines, equipment & tooling Rail Buildingfasteners&Construction > ETAs and Accreditations Renewables > Fasteners and tools TERRITORY FOCUS > Italy

Janitorial

JANUARY issue 070 ENHANCED DIGITAL

APRIL-MAY issue 073 PRINT EDITION

IT services, software and e-business

Women in fasteners special > North America

Plugs,

QC laboratory focus

FEBRUARY-MARCH issue 071 PRINT EDITION

IT services, software and e-business

plasterboard and cavity fixings

Rivets,

Fastener distribution special Nylon and plastic fixings and fasteners

SHOW PREVIEW > BAU

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER issue 077 PRINT EDITION

3D Buildingprinting&Construction > Timber engineering

SHOW PREVIEW > Fastener Fair Global 2023

TERRITORYscrewsFOCUS > North America

assembliesTERRITORY FOCUS >

& smart tools Automotive fasteners & tools Surface treatment and coatings Building & Construction > Adhesives, tapes, sealants and Turkishfillersfastener manufacturing Torque Rising Stars DECEMBER ENHANCED DIGITAL SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL > A special magazine on sustainable practices in the fastener and tool industries, covering company initiatives, ISO 14001 certification, recyclable packaging, end of life & related topics. 2023 FEATURES SUBMIT AN ARTICLE OR IDEA FOR CONSIDERATION TO jonathon@torque-expo.com

Rivets, rivet tools and rivet technology

issue 079

Advanced battery pack technology

Drill & screwdriver bits

Fastener Training - Academies

SHOW PREVIEW > Taiwan International Fastener Show

MAY issue 074 ENHANCED

supplies > Wipes, cleaners, sprays, etc Tool telematics

SHOW PREVIEW > International Fastener Expo

JULY-AUGUST issue 076 PRINT EDITION

etc)

Battery pack technology & smart tools

Online catalogues, brochures and webshops

Oils, sprays and lubricants

Fastener manufacturing special Stainless steel fixings and fasteners

Workwear, PPE and safety

Nuts, washers and locking systems Tools >

Torque tools, technology & bolting

Connected & smart tools

Building & Construction > Anchors Wire & fastener cold heading TERRITORY FOCUS > Eastern Europe SHOW PREVIEW > A+A 2023

rivet tools and rivet technology

TERRITORY FOCUS > Nordic countries Structural engineering & structural fasteners New

Electric vehicle fasteners and tools, and supply chain

TERRITORY

logistics and Kanban Production line tools (rivet guns, assembly tools, torque

EDITION

SHOW PREVIEW > Fastener Fair Global 2023

Battery technology

MARCH issue 072 ENHANCED DIGITAL

REGULAR

Hand tools and consumables

JUNE issue 075 PRINT

FEATURES BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION WOMEN IN FASTENERS & TOOLS APPRENTICE Q&A’S 5 MINUTES WITH… VIDEO INTERVIEWS WITH THE INDUSTRY

Building & Construction > Wood, chipboard and decking

Building & Construction > High tensile (HT) and bolt UK FOCUS ASEAN ASIA DIGITAL materials (graphene, hidrofugo, etc) EDITION Made in Germany

C-parts, wrenches,

Margin makers > tapes, sprays, disposable gloves & moreSHOW PREVIEW> BAU

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER PRINT

www.gberardi.com

theBuildingfuture together

Our wide assortment and logistics services are our best products!

The Berardi Group is a living heritage, an evolving process which we develop day by day, to shape a better future. Our know-how, innovative spirit, and attention for human relationships combine to create a business model that meets modern needs, without forgetting where it all began.

CHANGE AT THE TOP FOR NORBAR

64 torque-expo.com

A significant appointment for the torque tool manufacturer was made this summer, bringing close to four decades of experience into a key role…

anbury based Norbar Torque Tools has appointed a new Managing Director to lead the manufacturers’ global Johnoperations.Reynertson is the incoming Managing Director for the company and will replace the outgoing Andrew Lobo. He brings 36 years of experience in the torque tool industry to the role.

Norbar’s global reach has recently been bolstered by distribution deals in Kenya (with Amotech Africa Ltd) and a partnership with ISQ to expand its fixed location and mobile calibration capabilities in Portugal. In its home UK market, Norbar recently created a specialist tool madeto-order for the London Underground, for use on its fleet of Bombardier 09 Stock trains used on the Victoria Line.

TORQUE FOCUS

The outgoing Mr Lobo added: “Though my leaving the Managing Director position is a bittersweet moment, I have every confidence in John to continue to drive Norbar towards a successful future.

Oxfordshire-set Norbar was acquired by Snap-On back in May 2017 (reportedly for circa $72 million). The owning group has gone to pick up a number of other businesses, including Power Hawk Technologies in 2019 and Sturtevant Richmont, from which new Norbar MD John Reynertson has joined.

“I am proud of all we achieved in bringing the Snap on exper tise together with the rich Norbar history and will continue to work with its teams and those from Sturtevant Richmont as I return to Snap on in the US.”

www.norbar.com

John Reynertson joins Norbar from his role as President at Sturtevant Richmont, a US company recently purchased by Norbar’s owner Snap on (see right), that has designed and manufactured torque wrenches and torque control solutions since the 1920s. His appointment is part of the continuing collaboration between the three organisations to bring customers the best quality torque products for their industries.

Incoming Norbar MD John Reynertson (left) picks up the baton/torque wrench from former MD Andrew Lobo

ACQUISITIONS AND PARTNERSHIPS

TORQUE TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY

Mr Reynertson said: “I am looking forward to the challenge of running a larger company in a new region, working within an industry that I know and love so well. I will bring with me my engineering expertise from my years at Sturtevant Rich mont and apply that to the vibrant and fast moving markets that Norbar serves.”

66 torque-expo.com

TORQUE TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY with no kick back are features of the new impulse wrenches from YOKOTA

IMPULSE CONTROL

OKOTA, a leading company in the market for high tech air, electric and cordless tools, has recently launched a new range of cordless impulse wrenches. YOKOTA’s successful cordless impulse wrenches are continuously being developed and the new range features additional functionality for the YZ N collection of tools.

Aiming to be ‘tools with intelligence,’ the green status indi cation on the new model is a signal to the operator that the tightening process is proceeding according to the pre learned characteristics. With a green flashing indication, maintenance must be done in the short term. As soon as the tool can no longer work properly, the status indication turns red and an auditory signal is added, and finally the tool stops.

The key characteristics of the YZ NP Range include no kick back, high speed fastening, the use of hybrid technology and the powerful DC drive brushless motor. The compact design of

The YZ N series – impulse wrenches without a shut off – will be replaced by the YZ NP series to meet the needs of users. The YZ NP series is a new range of cordless shut off impulse wrenches and this new variant includes extra electronics that measure the strength of the hydraulic impulses, so that it can be signalled at an early stage when the impulse cell needs mainte nance. This prevents under torque tightenings going unnoticed.

YOKOTA is launching a new range of cordless shut-off impulse wrenches in the latest step on the continuous improvement for the successful tool collection.

High speed fastening

Developments will see new impulseintegratedfeaturesintothewrenchrange

TORQUE FOCUS

the YZ NP range offers great accessibility to the joint, tightening bolts M6 up to M10 with torque levels up to 60 Nm with very high speeds and remarkably low reaction forces.

YOKOTA is one of the brands distributed by Dutch company Rami Yokota BV, that distributes air tools mainly through Europe. The company was founded in 1896 and moved toward air tools from 1963. To support the biggest markets in Europe, the company has opened branch offices in Germany, the UK, France, Scandinavia and also in South Africa. In addition to YOKOTA, the brands distributed by Rami Yokota are TOKU and its own private label RED ROOSTER. To complete its programme of offerings, the company have added impact sockets and chisels from ACTION to its wide range of tools.

The new YZ NP range was developed by YOKOTA Industrial Co. Ltd. The tool firm is making great efforts to provide high quality and performance air tools for all industries. Modern technology combined with 100 years of experience has resulted in a high quality system. The company is internation ally orientated and active in global sales. The production of YOKOTA air tools, including this new range of cordless impulse wrenches, meets the demands of the 21st century. All developments such as the shut off capability, are based on original and flexible ideas. The YOKOTA strategy is that devel opment with flexible ideas will bring the best solutions. With all this research and developments YOKOTA is contributing to a better environment for the operator.

// The key characteristics of the YZ-NP Range include no kickback, high speed fastening, the use of hybrid technology and the powerful DC drive brushless motor //

torque-expo.com67

www.rami-yokota.com/en

YZ-NP availablewrenchesimpactarenow

68 torque-expo.com

Gedore will be presenting the new LDA/LAW Torque Wrench. Let’s take a look at its features...

The TRACK and QS modules enable the documentation of more than 10,000 bolted joints and are used for quality assurance archiving of your completed bolting work. The TRACK/QS modules can be switched on and off as required. The data transfer of all screwdriving operations via USB interface at the end of the working day is flawless and complete with these products, concludes Gedore. www.gedore.com LDA/LAW cordless torque solution provides up to 6,000 Nm, with reliable documentation software and a colour display. Head to Motek to see it in the flesh… TORQUE WRENCH

n October, Stuttgart’s Motek show, covering automation in production and assembly, will see Gedore showcase some of its finest torque solutions.

DOCU documentation module for quality assurance

CORDLESS

The highest standards

Torque up to 6,000 Nm

The new generation of LDA/LAW Solution cordless screwdrivers from Gedore Torque Solutions are made from lightweight high performance aluminium, with reliable documentation software, clear colour display, low weight and maximum performance. For maximum precision, the LDA/LAW Solution offers an optical zero defect strategy: a sunlight readable, digital colour display visually represents the entire work process.

The new high torque cordless screwdriver LDA/LAW Solution can be optionally equipped with a documentation module for quality assurance. Also, a storable screw joint assignment is possible. With the torque angle controlled tightening process, a perfectly defined tightening according to highest quality stan dards is guaranteed, says the brand. With the TRACK module, screwing operations can be traced back. During the screwdriving process the data is documented and then exported to a PC. From there, a bolting protocol can be created and archived. So it is precisely documented that all screw connections were screwed with the specified settings. The encrypted log file ensures that manipulation of the documentation data is impossible.

– UP TO 6,000 NM TORQUE TOOLS & TECHNOLOGYVisitGedoreTorque Solutions GmbH at Motek 2022 Hall 3 – Booth 3313 If you’re in the vicinity, head to Stuttgart-set Motek to see these new wrenches in action

Depending on the version, straight or angled, the basic model offers a torque of 90 to 6,000 Nm. The desired torque can be infinitely adjusted, says Gedore. The particularly efficient and fast brushless motor with 2 speed transmission and a powerful 18 volt lithium ion battery provides powerful drive. The battery operates at a constant peak performance until it is completely discharged.

TORQUE FOCUS The new

Reliable documentation software and clear colour display

ORGANISER ADVISER

The steel core and chemical resistant housing are made to last even in the harshest working conditions.Thetool’s lighter weight and adjustable handle design increase manoeuvrability and comfort.

Bahco has been making tools for over 135 years and is one of the leading manufacturers in the field of professional tools for industry that make human tasks more efficient and comfort able day by day.

Highly engineered design: Delivers the power needed over the life of the tool

TORQUE TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY

70 torque-expo.com TORQUE FOCUS

www.ingersollrand.com

The 2175max is lightweight but still packs a punch (2,715 Nm of torque)

6” anvil extension: Increases accessibil ity in hard to reach places

BESTwww.bahco.com

Optional muffler kit (2175-K764) or exhaust connection (2175-K285) for pipe-away and oil collection system

With the Bahco Connect App, users can boost the efficiency, traceability and control of torque and angle measuring within manufacturing processes. This app is so convenient and user friendly that it makes daily tasks in torque control smooth and simple, says the brand. TASMB screwdrivers and TAWMB wrenches let you reduce operating time, keep track of your work, and have complete control and traceabil ity over critical fastening operations.

INGERSOLL RAND MAKING AN IMPACT ON BIG BOLTING JOBS

Torque control is increasingly required in a wide variety of applications and especially in industry. For this reason, Bahco has designed a range of Bluetooth® digital torque and angle tools, ranging from screwdrivers to large wrenches, covering a multitude of fastening control activities. They communicate with your device via the Bahco Connect App available in various stores (Microsoft®, App Store and Google Play).

Swivel hose connection: Keeps cords from getting tangled so you can move freely around the garage

Ingersoll Rand’s 2175MAX 1” Pistol Grip Impact Wrench is engineered to make quick work of big bolting jobs and semi, bus and heavy equipment tyres. This tool has been made lighter, pushed harder and worked longer to make sure it can handle repeated demands without sacri ficing power.

OF THE REST

BAHCO: TORQUE CONTROL VIA CONNECT APP

Lightweight: weighs in under 9,1 kg. 360° adjustable handle: The side handle rotates fully around the tool as the job demands

In terms of power, a solid steel impact mechanism and robust motor deliver extreme torque that lasts for the life of the tool.

Chemical resistant housing & steel core: Stands up to drops and harsh work envi ronments

Solid steel impact mechanism: Deliver 2,715 Nm of torque

Steel core design: Few materials have been proven to last longer

HEAVY DUTY: The torque wrench is designed for tough jobs in the oil and gas, industrial, mining and wind energy sectors

Additionally, the Bolting Systems team designed High Cycle Hydraulic Torque Wrenches with safety in mind, with a fully enclosed drive mechanism, swivel manifold internal relief valve to prevent over pressurisation and a fine tooth pawl that prevents tool “lock on.”

Compact nose radius, allowing the tool to fit in tighter, hard-to-reach spaces

Fast operation, long stroke and optimum flow Multi-direction high flow swivel manifold Push-button square drive reversal and reaction arm release

Low-weight, high-strength design

SPX FLOW, Inc., a provider of process solutions for the indus trial, nutrition and health markets, is releasing the latest tool from Bolting Systems’ High Cycle Hydraulic Torque Wrench (TWHC) series. Internal testing shows that the TWHC 11 can offer superior performance with even more durable material that doubles to triples the wrench’s cycle life.

The Wrenches are known for their performance. At more power per tool, their increased reliability and simple drive assembly mean less time spent on maintenance. Other enhanced usability features include:

“Bolting Systems has been providing premium high cycle wrenches for decades,” says David Campbell, Global Product Director for Bolting Systems. “Our team knows our customers and their needs. The TWHC series is a perfect mix of power, performance and longevity, resulting in less downtime and moreHighresults.”CycleHydraulic Torque Wrenches play a critical role when large industrial fasteners are needed. These high strength hydraulic tools are for heavy duty users, like those in the oil and gas, industrial, wind energy and mining sectors. Made from corrosion resistant material, they can withstand the harshest of environments.

a wide variety of nutrition, health and industrial markets. To see more about this and other tools in the High Cycle Hydraulic Torque Wrench series, visit spxflow.com. www.spxflow.com

“This is our longest lasting High Cycle Hydraulic Torque Wrench to date in this torque range, meaning a lower cost of ownership alongside other advanced features,” adds Campbell. “As part of SPX FLOW’s suite of solutions, the Bolting Systems team is working hard to ensure that each and every customer has the right tool for their specialised job.”

SPX FLOW TRIPLES CYCLE LIFE OF TORQUE WRENCH

Based in Charlotte, N.C., SPX FLOW offers improved innova tive and sustainable solutions. The company’s product offering is concentrated in process technologies that perform mixing, blending, fluid handling, separation, thermal heat transfer and other activities that are integral to processes performed across

// This is our longest-lasting High Cycle Hydraulic Torque Wrench to date in this torque range, meaning a lower cost of ownership alongside other advanced features. //

“Whencustomers.”PTSwere

acquired by Trifast PLC in 2018, we under took a review of many policies that were needed to meet Trifast’s Corporate expectations. As well as the long estab lished ISO 9001 accreditation, we have updated our policies around sustainability and our carbon footprint,” says Andy. “Quality and customer service are at the very core of what we do here, which is why the company continues to grow.”

hanges are afoot at Precision Technology Supplies Ltd (PTS), with new developments, a new location, new product ranges and IT infrastructure updates. After successfully navigating the past few years, PTS continue to push ahead with their long term plans to further support its customers in over 120 countries worldwide.

Moving forward, what else is on the horizon for PTS? “There will no doubt be many headwinds for our industry but PTS’ financial strength, strong global partnerships and large diverse customer base across a wide range of industries mean that we continue to take the long term view and push forward, taking advantage of opportunities as they arise along the way. PTS will continue to invest in resources to grow the business and meet customer’s requirements,” explains Andy. www.pts-uk.com

A long awaited warehouse move to a much larger local premises is on the cards for 2023. This will allow PTS to bring together all existing sites into one larger, more automated warehouse, resulting in day to day logistical and order picking time benefits. PTS is continually updating its IT systems, implementing the latest technology and data streams. Together with the well known PTS e commerce website www.pts uk.com, which recently won the Torque Website of the Year 2022 Award, plans are ongoing to streamline the world of fastener distribution and offer our customers a better, more transparent and quicker service.

PTS stock holdings continue to increase quickly and more product ranges have been added, the most recent being Tita nium Grade 5 Fasteners. “We’re always on the lookout for

Precision Technology Supplies has experienced a lot of change recently, with more on the horizon. Sales Director Andy Knight talks to Torque Magazine about the new things that are happening with the business and what is coming up…

// Quality and customer service are at the very core of what we do here, which is why the company continues to grow. //

CHANGING SPACES

“Business remains robust despite the many headwinds the last few years have produced,” says Sales Director, Andy Knight. “PTS management and staff have faced the same challenges as most of our customers, with Brexit, Covid, global supply chain issues, stock shortages, sanctions and the war in Ukraine. Despite all these issues, we continue to forge ahead with our long term plan with the full support of our staff.”

complementary ranges that have a strong brand and mature market already to add to our Bumax, Nordlock, AMPG, Philidas and Evolution ranges,” says Andy. “With over 35,000 metric products and 10,000 imperial products we like to offer a complete basket of the best quality stainless steel fasteners to our

PTS is currently implementing a fully automated Warehouse Management System (WMS) which consists of barcoding all stock to give customers more information on country of origin, more traceability and better automated invoicing documenta tion for customs clearance. This will also streamline its ware house with faster order picking and despatch.

72 torque-expo.com SPOTLIGHT

RIVIT INDIA Pvt Ltd Chennai

Srl ITALIA HEADQUARTERS Bologna

rivitindia@rivit.in

SUBSIDIARY -

RIVIT / ITALY - rivit@rivit.it / rivit.it

SUBSIDIARY / - /

Temara / MAROC

rivit@rivit.ma / rivit.itRIVIT MAROC Sarl Au

rivit.in

INDIA

Owlett Jaton, the wholesale supplier of fasteners, fixings, and associated products to the distributor and merchant trade, offers in excess of 30,000 product lines, which includes a comprehen sive range of A2 and A4 stainless steel fasteners and fixings.

OWLETT-JATON STAINLESS STEEL OFFERING

// Owlett-Jaton’s stainless steel product range is wide and deep, covering fixings as well as fasteners, in grades A2-304, A4-316, and A4-80. //

Stainless steel fasteners and fixings are used in all manner of applications and industries, offering anti-corrosion and a host of other properties. We look at a fraction of what is on offer with the promise that there are always more sizes, styles and other options available. STEEL FASTENERS & FIXINGS

74 torque-expo.com

Today’s society is heavily reliant on convenience and being able to offer this to its customers is at the very heart of Owlett Jaton’s directive. The amalgamation of Icon Fasteners and Stainless Threaded Fasteners’ product offering into Owlett Jaton’s core range in 2020 is a prime example. Rather than customers having to contact up to three separate companies to place orders, receive numerous deliveries, as well as the corresponding invoices, the customer’s experience from start to finish has become more efficient now that it is under one (very big!) roof. One order. One delivery. One invoice.

TORQUE FOCUS STAINLESS

OFFERING MORE

Owlett Jaton is the Master Wholesaler for Blind Bolt across the UK and Europe, with options available on A2 and A4 stain less steel products spanning the range, including heavy duty and thin wall designs. Blind Bolt is a high performance constructional cavity fixing. A simple yet ingenious solution for blind fixing applications, the simplicity of Blind Bolt makes it an ideal choice for fixing to steel sections where access is restricted or when working at height, needs access from only one side, and covers horizontal and vertical applications.

> AN A1

The A4 stainless steel heavy duty throughbolts with CE and ETA (European Technical Assessment) Option 7 approval from JCP Fixings, includes over 40 sizes (and growing) from 40mm to 240mm in length. CE and European Technical Assessment (ETA) certified, they are the ultimate ‘through fixing’. They are ideal for bolting in place awkward fixtures without the need for marking out, removing and repositioning. The A4 316 stainless steel body offers superb resistance to corrosion and enables the throughbolts to be used in interior and exterior applications, including marine environments.

Owlett Jaton’s stainless steel product range is wide and deep, covering fixings as well as fasteners, in grades A2 304, A4 316, and A4 80. From A2 stainless steel panel pins, all the way through to A4 stainless steel specialist structural fixings from JCP and Blind Bolt, the stainless steel product range covers a broad spectrum of product type, size, material, head style and drive type.

www.owlett-jaton.com

EXPERIENCEYEARS’30THE UK MARKET WWW.APEXSTAINLESS.COMLEADERTHE STOCK RANGE COVERS IN EXCESS OF 20,000 ITEMS IN GRADES A2 ( 304) AND A4 ( 316) IN METRIC, UNIFIED AND IMPERIAL THREAD FORM AND MUCH, MUCH MORE ASK US FOR DETAILS Socket Screws Machine Screws Hex Head Screws ChipboardAerotight®ScrewsNutsMarine Items Rivets Woodscrews Security Screws Studding Turned Parts to Drawing Nuts Washers Self ThroughboltsTappers FAX +44 (0) 1788 547974 +44 (0) 1902 404944 PRODUCTSASSUREDQUALITY FOCUSEDCUSTOMERONCARE NEXT TODELIVERYDAYTHEUKMAINLAND WORLDWIDESHIPMENTPROMPT COMPETITIVEPRICING INTRODUCING The World’s Strongest Stainless Steel Bolt BUMAX® 88 Socket Caps and Socket Countersunk Screws available for Next Day delivery Other BUMAX® Products and Materials Available on Request including Hexagon Full Nuts, Flat Washers, Hexagon Head Screws and Studding TELEPHONE +44 (0) 1788 537979 +44 (0) 1902 404909 EMAIL BILSTON@APEXSTAINLESS.COMSALES@APEXSTAINLESS.COM

TOBSTEEL MORE THAN

www.tobsteel.com

Fasteners

in corrosion resistance classes CRC I to V

Established in 2004, TOBSTEEL GmbH is a specialist for high corrosion resistant fasteners in Europe, where customers bene fit from their extensive know how. Located in Öhringen (Baden Württemberg), TOBSTEEL is an important supplier of quality products which knows which materials and which corrosion resistance classes (CRC) customers need and the company is justifiably proud of the extremely high stock of special materials for every corrosion resistance class they carry.

76 torque-expo.com

corrosion resistant connectors.

But that’s still not all: whether it’s surface finishes, individual machining or drawing parts according to customer requirements TOBSTEEL also makes this possible. Thanks to the comprehensive knowledge and experience of the team’s 90+ employees, TOBSTEEL provide their customers with competent advice and support in the implementation of large industrial projects and thus offer far more than just the standard.

headquarters in Öhringen, BadenWürttemberg

Recently, TOBSTEEL was also involved in the procedure for the approval Z 30.3 6 of the German Institute for Building Technology (DIBt), in close cooperation with the Stainless Steel Information Centre. Therefore, TOBSTEEL is now listed in the belonging offprint 862 as a manufacturer for highly

The company is also represented in the timber work sector with its own wood screws, which have ETA certification, mean ing they are approved for the European market for the construction industry.

FIXINGS

TOBSTEEL are also pleased to enable the construction of wind farms, biogas plants, etc. with the supply of Duplex 1.4462 and thus make a sustainable contribution to environ mental protection and the energy transition. Of course, hydro electric power plants and general plant construction also play an important role here with the use of material 1.4571.

TOBSTEEL

All articles are checked thoroughly and provide reliable quality. The highly corrosion resistant materials are checked twice internally, because as a DIN EN ISO 9001 certified company, TOBSTEEL does not want to make any compromises.

In accordance with German approval requirements and the European standard Eurocode 3, TOBSTEEL thus provides its customers from the construction sector and industry with solutions in a flexible, competent, and reliable manner.

TOBSTEEL provides suitable fasteners for each of the five corrosion resistance classes (CRC I to V) – whether for solar thermal systems, wind power plants, water purification plants, pool technologies, tunnel constructions, bridge drainages or ventilation engineering.

STAINLESS STEEL FASTENERS &

Over 12,500 m² of storage space and with an automatic small parts warehouse (AKL) with 15,000 bin locations, not only fasteners in the standard materials A2, A4 and A5 (1.4571) are stored, but also in the highly corrosion resistant special materials D6 (1.4462 DUPLEX) and A8 (1.4529 HCR). 1.4410 Superduplex is also available and can be procured on demand. Including DIN 125, 127, 912, 931/933, 934, 976, 980, 985, 1587, 9021, 7991 (ISO 10642) as well as more than 25,000 other standard and special articles, which are shipped directly from stock all over the world.

In keeping with “TOBSTEEL makes the world a little better,” the company is particularly proud of its high stock of special material, enabling them to be part of substantial major projects such as the construction of the LNG terminal in Wilhelmshaven (HCR 1.4529) and the flood protection system “Mose” in Venice. But also in the leisure sector, families enjoy the safety of highly corrosion resistant screw fittings in the water world of Germany’s largest amusement park!

STANDARD Over 25,000 products from special materials TORQUE FOCUS

Upwww.pasvahl.deto34millionspecial screws directly from stock! Fit bolts, plugs, knurled thumb screws, square head bolts, ﬂat headed screws, hexagon set screws, brass screws and specials . Fon +49 (0) 40 532 852-0 · E-Mail: info@pasvahl.de It‘s ﬁxed. DIN,BRASS912 01342 410 758 | info@pts-uk.com | www.pts-uk.com • Over 35,000 Metric Products • Over 10,000 Imperial Products • Fast delivery from stock • We offer Metric sizes M1.0 > M52 • Imperial sizes 0-80 > 2” Diameter • A2, A2-80, A4, A4-80 & Bumax Material • Newly added Titanium Grade 5 Material • DIN, ISO, BS, ASME & NFE Standard Parts • In-house PMI Testing • ISO 9001 Certi昀ed, RoHS Compliant

and Great Britain where Torque HQ is based. The team is working on new projects like Torque Direct and a special (digital) magazine tackling sustainability in the industry, get in touch to find out more. www.torque-expo.com MEET THE TORQUE TEAM

Jonathon Harker Editor

claire@torque-expo.com

78 torque-expo.com ABOUT US

Tom Keenan Sales Manager USA & International

Claire Warman Sales UnitedManagerKingdom

Jonathon writes and edits Torque Magazine and website, spending his time breaking news, interviewing big cheeses and visiting warehouses and factories in the UK and Europe. You can spot him at shows in the UK and internationally (now they have returned), watching out for trends, gathering opinions and generally keeping a finger on the pulse of the fastener, tool and related industries. Talk to Jonathon to share your news and views in the magazine and website.

Claire looks after UK sales for Torque Magazine and Torque-Expo.

Claire is one of the longest serving members of the Torque team and has over one decade’s experience in the industry, having worked across both fastener events and magazines.

Rachel King Deputy Editor

Australian native Rachel writes content for Torque Magazine and website, using the skills she’s devel oped in the media in her homeland and the UK. With 15 years in publish ing, Rachel is no novice to trade shows, events or B2B magazines. When not typing away at her keyboard, Rachel is keen on DIY and has assembled more pieces of furni ture than she cares to count. Talk to Rachel about any editorial enquiries for the magazine or website.

Jerry Ramsdale Publisher

Talk to Harry today to discuss how best to promote your interna tional business, product or services with Torque.

he Torque Magazine team has recently been boosted with the arrival of Rachel King as Deputy Editor, a new role created as business continues its growth trajectory. An Australian based in the UK, the arrival of King (see below) brings a further international dimension to a team that includes experienced execs from Germany, the United States

Jerry is the founder and Publisher of Torque Magazine and Torque-Expo. Leading the Torque team, he has enjoyed many years in the trade.

rachel@torque-expo.com

The US-born sales veteran has worked across a number of sales & management positions, both domes tic and international to include exhi bitions within the publishing industry, emerging technologies, textiles and distribution. Tom comes to us with a reputation of building strong and lasting relationships with clients.

Anybody in the fastener, tools and related industries interested in promoting their products and services through Torque Magazine and Torque-Expo can contact Tom now.

tom@torque-expo.com

jonathon@torque-expo.com

Speak to Claire about publicising your company, services and prod ucts through Torque’s print or digital magazines.

The Torque team has expanded over the years to bolster the ranks, as the magazine, website and show have expanded. Find your key Torque contacts here:

harry.whyte@torque-expo.com

Jerry’s long career in fasteners started with the founding of his own distribution business and also includes the establishing of several successful global fastener exhibi tions and magazines. Talk to Jerry to tap into his extensive knowledge of the fastener industry. jerry@torque-expo.com

Harry Whyte Sales InternationalManager

After a 20-year spell in the UK, Harry is back in his native Germany to spearhead Torque’s European salesWithoperation.over18years’ experience in the fasteners and tools industries, Harry is highly accomplished at developing global fastener shows and magazines, and now heads up Torque’s permanent presence in mainland Europe.

80 torque-expo.com

Pgb Europe provides all its clients with all the technical information needed in its documentation, but it has also developed software specifically for calculating the load and the anchors needed for the application. The technical department is also glad to help installers with questions.

www.constructionanchors.net

Having the right anchor for the right job is a must in the construction industry whether it’s for heavy duty applications, mechanical or chemical anchors, frame fixing, throughbolts or more, ensuring the anchors meet regulation requirements yet are still easy to install is key.

Pgb Europe also has a complete range of drop in anchors, throughbolts (with ETA option 1 assessment), and four shield expansion anchors of the SM00 range with the options of a preinstalled threaded rod, bolt, forged eye bolt or forged hook.

PGB-EUROPE > Heavy Duty Anchors

Construction Anchors Co., LTD specialises in a wide range of innovative fixing solu tions along with bespoke products tailored to the customers’ needs. They aim to become a worldwide partner to construction professionals, dedicated to the highest quality of both products and service. On the cutting edge of the fixing and fastening technology, CA is committed to research and development, focussing on continuous innovation to ensure competitive longevity.

Pgb Europe has a full range of heavy duty anchors for every application, providing clients with the best possible mechani cal anchors. The heavy duty anchors are put through ETA assessments. These independent assessments guarantee that the anchors will hold the loads. There are also assessments for application in concrete and cracked concrete.

The flagship of this range is the SM07TB, a throughbolt with an ETA assessment option 7 for concrete, which you can also use in cracked concrete. The throughbolt can be installed at a reduced depth or at standard depth. Both depths are indicated on the threaded part with a mark. The reduced depth has the advantage of a faster installation. It reduces the drilling time and therefore speeds up the installation. The SM07TB throughbolt comes preinstalled with a washer and a nut, so you can immediately install the throughbolt via push through installation. Furthermore, you can also use the SM07TB for pre positioned installation.

The SM0BS range concrete screws all have ETA assessments for concrete and cracked concrete and are available in a wide range of diameters and lengths. The different kinds of heads of these concrete screws – combined with washer, counter sunk, pan head, internal or external thread – makes this range suitable for a vast number of applications.

www.pgb-europe.com

With that in mind, CA are proud to offer a competitive range of ETA certified anchors which include Wedge Anchors, Drop In Anchors, Ceiling Nails and Concrete Bolts.

Their latest update to the ETA Anchors programme is attaining C1 Seismic Approval for their ETA Option 1 Concrete Bolts. The Concrete Bolts are manufac tured in Taiwan with quality procedures that underlines the values and capabilities of the company.

Construction Anchors > ETA Certiﬁed Anchors

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

ANCHORS

ANCHORS FOR ALL

JCP Construction Products (JCP), the specialist fixing division of Owlett Jaton, is known as a brand synonymous with quality, an ever expanding product range, in depth product knowledge and unrivalled technical support.

The designer can then select the one they consider most applicable for their circumstances. Calculations are carried out in accordance with the current European Guide EOTA TR 029 for bonded anchors and EOTA ETAG 001 ANNEX C for mechanical anchors.

Many contractors are now required to provide proof testing for fixings. It is an expensive and time consuming practice. Proof testing, to validate the quality of installation, might not be necessary if approved anchors are installed by trained oper atives working under supervision. JCP’s Technical Department offers installation training sessions for contractors and their personnel. Training is not limited to installation practices other levels of training are available, including:

• BASIC an introduction to fixings, regulations on fixings and construction, and practical fixing practices.

Owlett-Jaton Complete Anchoring Solution from JCP

> The

ANCHORS

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION 82 torque-expo.com

With a reputation for expertise, technical back up and expe rience in applications and fixings, JCP can provide profession als with guidance when choosing the correct anchor for a specific application. From specification to project sign off, JCP supports installers across multiple industries.

The test rig is attached to the fixing, and load is applied to the specified level, which determines the strength of the application. Upon completion, the customer is provided with documentation, substantiating the application. This includes a report which records the loads achieved, the corresponding product data sheet for comparison, as well as a calibration report, proving that the results are true and accurate.

Training

• ADVANCED for engineers.

of information and data, including fire and seismic requirements, and can accurately suggest suitable anchors based on connection configurations.

Designed to simplify specifying connections to floors, ceilings, and walls, factoring in loadings, spacing, and edge distances, users of the ACP enter relevant data for a specific application, and the program recommends fixings accordingly.

Testing

JCP products are available for free next day delivery, with low minimum order levels, across the majority of the UK mainland, and customers can order online 24 hours a day, seven days a week via the Owlett Jaton website.

The anchor range from JCP covers multiple types manufac tured from a range of materials, including carbon steel and stainless steel. Products also include ETA and CE options for when extra substantiation is required.

Anchor Calculation Program

www.owlett-jaton.com

• ADVANCED for people without an engineering background.

Available as a free download from JCP’s website, its Anchor Calculation Program (ACP) includes a wide range

With the ever changing demands of the construction industry, factors such as load bearing capacity, environmental conditions, concrete class, anchor spacing, edge distances and loading type must all be considered.

Once the anchor has been selected, JCP’s Area Sales Managers are on hand to carry out on site product testing right across the UK when requested.

Dynamic markets, shorter production cycles solutions

and requirements from lean management are radically changing the procurement of C-parts. In demand are more efﬁcient

in production supply in order to devise processes that are simpler and more cost-effective. Our C-parts management makes your processes ﬁt for the challenges of the future! Get in contact with WebVideous.

THE WORLD FASTENERSINCH-OF www.schroederschrauben.de YEARS SCHRODER

State-of-the-art RFID Kanban solutions

The special lamella geometry gently expands in the respective construction material while the intelligent design guarantees even load distribution in solid building materials. In perforated brick, the lamellae expand along the stone fillet and form an undercut in the cavities. Thanks to its gentle force transmission even in porous construction materials, fractures are avoided and anchorages can be placed close to edges without issue. Made of high quality nylon, the grey main body offers a strong hold while the red material component ensures flexibility and optimal expansion. The Euro pean Technical Assessment (ETA) for multiple use for non struc tural systems certifies its secure hold in all building material classes. The expansion element with two anchoring depths increases flexibility with 50mm in concrete, solid and hollow construction materials and 70mm in all building material classes, from concrete to aerated concrete. Two additional anchoring depths of 140mm and 160mm expand the range of applications to hollow construction materials with large cavities.

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION 84 torque-expo.com

DuoXpand is available with a countersunk head screw and a conical shaped plug rim, which are suitable for timber construc tion fastenings. The additional DuoXpand FUS versions with hexagon screws and moulded washers also allow a diverse range of metal construction applications, during which the wide plug rim avoids contact corrosion between the fixture and screw for a permanent, secure fixing. The respective version with a coun tersunk head or a hexagon screw can be used to carry out facade, ceiling and roof substructures made of wood and metal. The frame fixing’s wide range of applications also includes windows, gates and doors, wardrobes, kitchen cupboards, joists, beams, TV units, wall claddings, metal brackets and much more.

A new option allows you to calculate the mortar quantities required for bonded anchors and post installed rebar connec tions. “The user enters various parameters such as the substrate type, drill hole quantities and diameters and the loads to be supported,” says Marc Klunzinger, Product Owner at fischer. “Based on this data, the fischer PRO app calculates the required quantity of the respective fischer injection anchor with the required number of cartridges.”

Intelligence

With the fischer PRO app, professional users and planners can access many useful functions and information on fischer’s fixing technology from anywhere and at any time. With its digital prod uct advisor, fischer helps tradespeople and engineers to access key information, facts and documents quickly and securely in order to be able to make decisions on the ideal fixing solution.

www.fischer.group Fischer > Innovative

The product advisor is also available as a desktop version for PCs. In addition to the product advisor, users can alternatively use the pro app’s virtual showroom to research suitable fixing and system solutions. Anchoring

ANCHORS

Fastening experts fischer is adding to its DuoLine with the new DuoXpand frame fixing. The product family now consists of five plugs with an innovative combination of materials. With its latest addition, the DuoLine now covers multiple applications and construction materials. The combination of materials and design guarantees a particularly firm bite in all anchor substrates.

Users can access the fischer PRO app anywhere and at any DuoXpandtime range from fischer The fischer PRO includesapp a calculationnewtool

The product is simple and easy to use. Simply position the fixture with the DuoXpand using the push through installation method, tighten with the screw, and it’s done.

Visit www.ejot.co.uk Email info@ejot.co.uk Call 01977 68 70 40

Metal anchoring for concrete.

MADE BY EJOT WORLDWIDE

The high quality of EJOT and LIEBIG anchoring products ensures safety and high load-bearing capacity values – promoting conﬁdence in design and speciﬁcation.

Bringing it together.

Advanced. Approved. Available.

Full product range. Specialist knowledge.

The demands of ﬁxing into uncracked and cracked concrete are wide and varied. Which is why EJOT’s range of solutions are equally varied, from the temporary fastening of facade scaffolding and cladding to the anchoring of structural elements such as railings, steel stairs, facade components. The list is almost endless.

Eurotec > Rock Concrete Screw

EJOT offers two systems to meet the requirements of a wide variety of applications – Super Epoxy SE 800 and the Multifix VSF. Both work by combining a chemical resin with a threaded stud which, when installed and cured, provides a secure anchoring fix with assured long term performance in even the most severe environmental conditions.

Designers can utilise EJOT’s user friendly calculation software, EJOT® Chemical Anchor Engineering. This allows volume calculations to be determined to optimise usage, saving time and improving accuracy in a wide variety of EJOTsubstrates.hasa wide range of anchoring solutions to cater for every type of concrete and solid base application including concrete screws, throughbolts and the heavy duty LIEBIG anchoring systems. www.ejot.co.uk

in concrete. The high strength steel ensures reliable use in class C20/25 to C50/60 concrete. A European Technical Approval also underlines the highest level of safety for anchoring it in cracked and non cracked concrete.

ANCHORS

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION 86 torque-expo.com

Due to the special thread, the concrete screw can cut a counter thread in the subsoil or in the building material. This provides immediate load bearing capacity and extensive grip in the concrete without further drilling or the use of special tools. A hammer drill is sufficient to create the drill hole. The optimal cleaning of the borehole is particularly important in order to guarantee a high degree of application safety. It is also necessary to pay attention to the correct setting depth.

EJOT > Chemical Anchoring Systems

Whether permanent or for a certain period of time – concrete screws are the perfect alternative for fast and efficient anchoring

www.e-u-r-o-tec.de

Eurotec offers customers the right concrete screw for numer ous areas of application. A variety of designs allows the customer to find the right screw – whether it’s with a hexagon head, a flange or a countersunk head. All Rock concrete screws in the range require minimum time for assembly and maximum cost savings for material.

EJOT Multifix VSF is a styrene free low odour anchor mortar. It is a two component chemical anchoring system based on a ‘high reactivity’ vinylester resin. It is fast curing, and it can be used underwater as well as in potable water applications, being WRAS approved.

As a specialist for fastening technology, Eurotec has been offering its customers professional and high quality products for various areas such as deck and landscape construction, timber engineer ing as well as roofs and facades for more than 20 years. In addi tion to these product lines, the company supplies numerous items for secure anchoring in concrete and masonry.

Multifix VSF and Super Epoxy SE 800 AnchoringChemicalSolutions

Both systems are ETA approved for anchoring threaded rod or rebar in concrete, fire rated and have an A+ Rating for VOC content, with a superior design to provide high bond strength with high load, dynamic and chemical resistance.

At the core of the systems is a high quality threaded stud available in zinc plated and A4 stainless steel options. This features a depth marker on the shaft to help set the stud to the correct level, and a hexagonal nut and washer mechanism for problem free installation.

The EJOT Super Epoxy SE 800 is a very high load epoxy injection mortar for solid base materials, including stone, which can be used in dry, wet and flooded holes. It is a versatile solution suitable for use in warm/hot regions, diamond drilled holes and oversized holes. There is no shrinkage, and it is thixotropic, meaning it can be applied in both vertical and horizontal directions.

Both systems are suitable for use in critical or overhead applications and enable anchoring close to the edge of concrete and at small anchor spacings. Installation involves straightforward drilling and cleaning process for the hole prior to inserting the adhesive and the threaded rod.

Eurotec Rock concrete screw mounted

EJOT

Injectable chemical anchoring systems from EJOT combine high strength with ease of use to provide a dependable anchor ing solution for cracked and non cracked concrete, brick and block in the most demanding applications.

Mounting concrete screws without plugs can be achieved with the innovative Rock concrete screws from Eurotec. The Rock concrete screws are used for assembly work in massive substrates such as concrete or masonry. Fastening heavy add on parts proves to be extremely uncomplicated and time saving, since no plugs are required in the pre drilled hole for assembly.

SCAN & WIN

SOARING SUCCESS

But they recognise that they wouldn’t be where they are today without their valued customers, so they too will get to join in the celebrations. “We would like to say a huge thank you to all our loyal ISS UK customers for the support over the last five decades and their contribution to our success,” explains Steve Topping. “As a thank you, we will be sending out gift boxes of fudge to our customers as well as an opportunity for customers to have a drink on us, by entering a competition online to win a bottle of champagne.” To enter the competition, visit the company’s website www.impactsocket.co.uk and fill in your details on the entry form.

The business is now in the hands of the company’s two directors – Alison Barker and Steve Topping, along with the ISS UK dedicated team. The company’s motto, ‘Service is our Strength,’ is fully backed by its technically trained staff who are always there to advise customers as necessary.

like to say a huge thank you to all our loyal ISS-UK customers for the support over the last five decades and their contribution to our success. //

Originally based at Phoenix Works, Friday Street, Chorley, the company had humble beginnings when it started out by sending out a few sockets a day by post in empty whisky boxes kindly donated by the local pub. From there business grew and opera tions expanded further when Ron Barker took the company on in 1990 and now hundreds of parcels a day are dispatched and delivered by the expertise of a worldwide courier company.

Stephen Farnworth, to re create the company’s logo, the Amer ican eagle, set within the hexagon of an Impact Socket, to commemorate the company’s continuing ‘soaring’ success. The artwork will take pride of place in the reception area as a reminder of the company’s 50 years of achievements and successes throughout the decades.

Impact Socket Supplies is celebrating 50 years in business

www.impactsocket.co.uk//Wewould

There are several plans to mark the special occasion in recog nition of everyone’s hard work and drive for success. Amongst the various celebrations, Alison commissioned local painter,

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mpact Socket Supplies are turning 50 this September. Estab lished as a one man operation in 1972, the business initially focused on regional clients but has expanded over time to become an internationally recognised name with blue chip customers all over the world.

These days Impact Socket Supplies has grown to be one of the UK’s No.1 distributor and exporters of high quality impact sockets specifically designed for power tools. The company now supplies over 4,000 product lines to serve the engineering, automotive, construction, aviation and many other industries. Complementing the impact socket range is an extensive array of impact accessories, boxed sets, spanners and more.

“We’re very focused on quality and customer service and our relationship with our customers,” says Company Director, Alison Barker. As to why Impact Socket Supplies has stayed in business for so long, she believes the reasons for the company’s longevity are its continued commitment to have the very best quality prod ucts and the ISS UK staff team’s determination to maintain strong relationships with their customers.

Impact Socket Supplies is celebrating 50 years in business, growing from a one-man operation to a leading distributor and exporter of impact sockets. Company Director, Alison Barker, tells Torque Magazine how they are marking the milestone.

SPOTLIGHT

IMPACT SOCKET SUPPLIES

OGL Software is the author and developer of the long established prof.ITplus, and its newly launched Profit4, ERP solutions. OGL’s software solutions are designed to improve the efficiency, productivity and profitability of hundreds of stockists, distributors and wholesalers across the UK, by bringing together key business processes includ ing CRM, Sales Order Processing, Warehouse Management, Stock Management, Accounts & Invoicing, Sales Analysis, eCommerce and Shopping Channel Integration (i.e. eBay and Amazon).

// Our services and markets have diversified so much that we felt there was greater opportunity to realise our ambitious growth plans if we gave each division its own space to expand. //

olihull based Wavenet Ltd announced the acquisition of OGL Computer Support Holdings Limited and its two subsidiaries OGL Computer Support Limited and Cyber Guard Technologies Limited, earlier this summer.

OGL SOFTWARE TO REMAIN FOCUSED ON ERP FOLLOWING ACQUISITION

90 torque-expo.com SPOTLIGHT

Wavenet purchase of certain OGL divisions clears Software arm to focus on its core business

Sharon Moreno, Head of Operations at OGL Software, commented: “OGL Software is now one of the leading ERP solutions for stockists, distributors and wholesalers across the UK, and following the official launch of our new prod uct, Profit4, in January 2021 the software company has been experiencing huge success. We have ambitious growth plans to further secure our position in the market and this new independence will give us the space and opportunity to really focus on our core business.

A press statement said the acquisition presents a fantastic opportunity for the OGL Group as it not only enhances the portfolio of services offered by OGL Computer Support and CyberGuard Technologies to support future expansion into new markets, but it also enables the hugely successful OGL Software division to break away from the Group to focus solely on its ERP business.

“Over the past 45 years the OGL Group has grown signifi cantly," said Debbie Barton, Chief Executive Officer of OGL Soft ware. "And our products/services and markets have diversified so much that we felt there was greater opportunity to realise our ambitious growth plans if we gave each division its own space to expand. But it was important that we found the right way to do that for all three divisions so when Wavenet approached us about the IT Services and Cyber Security part of the business, it presented the perfect solution.

www.ogl.co.uk/software

“The acquisition will enable us to continue to grow our highly successful OGL Software business. Having been actively involved in the running of this side of the business for over 35 years, I am thrilled to be able to head up the newly indepen dent operation as we embark on the next chapter. We are proud to be a family owned business, as we feel that is what enables us to really understand the daily challenges facing our UK customers who are often, themselves, family run.”

“Our software customers will receive the same first class, personal service that they are used to, and we will continue to recommend OGL Computer Support and Cyber Guard Technologies to our customers for their IT and cyber security services. It’s a really exciting time and I am looking forward to working with our staff and customers to drive the OGL Software business forward.”

Sofia Cinel, Managing Partner of KC adds: “KC’s development of flexible lithium batteries, for applications in clothing and accessories, opens infinite new possibilities. With Talon’s vast network, the use of this innovation can now be rolled out in the entire industry in countless new applications.”

“We’ve already had significant interest from our existing customer base, which has us very excited for the future of our industry,” says Larry Dyne, CEO at Talon. “Thanks to our part nership with KC Wearable Technologies, these technologies can be applied to garments and accessories, to create superior products with short development to market times.”

The focus will be on topics such as sustainability and the circular economy of products, digital services in the provision, care and storage of PPE, mobile working, exoskeletons (wear able robots) and wearables. Exciting forums and side events as well as an innovative Start up Zone complement the trade fair and set new, future oriented impulses.

Talon International Inc. and KC Wearable Technologies Srl. in Italy have formed a strategic partnership to supply Talon’s customers with KC’s wearable technology innovations. The cooperation will facilitate the sales and distribution of existing KC innovations, as well as the creation of exciting joint devel opments in clothing and accessories.

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What we are used to in workwear and PPE is set to change with fresh ideas coming in the near future as we look at some of the developments in the sector.

Decision makers and experts will find cross sector solutions and answers to the important questions surrounding a safe, healthy and sustainable workplace. From personal protective equipment (PPE), operational fire protection, environmental protection or disaster prevention to offers for ergonomic and healthy workplace design.

INNOVATIVE PARTNERSHIP

Developments like heating systems for clothing and acces sories, cooling systems for fashion and activewear, and wire less charging pockets for smartphones, will provide Talon customers with industry leading technology. With patented technologies, often designed to be removable for cleaning purposes, Talon foresees widespread use in the future.

Exhibiting companies can now register for A+A 2023, one of the world’s leading trade events for personal protection, occupational safety and health at work which will take place in Düsseldorf from 24 to 27 October 2023.

Photo Credit : Messe Düsseldorf/ctillmann

WORKWEAR, PPE & SAFETY

The research and development teams of both companies are thrilled about the next stage in their growth and excited to help change the future.

Dominik Kufner, Managing Partner at KC, says: “In the near future, we plan to jointly create new safety vests, with a wide range of revolutionary new safety functions. With integrated new communication tools, sensor technologies and alarm systems, workers can be safer than ever before.”

www.taloninternational.com

“A+A is unique because it offers tangible product presenta tions as well as exciting networking formats for a lively and personal exchange. It is therefore a ‘must’ for every decision maker across all sectors because health and safety at work are becoming an essential part of corporate culture, especially in the age of New Work and digital transformation,” explains Petra Cullmann, Executive Director, Messe Düsseldorf GmbH.

www.aplusa.com

LOOKING AHEAD TO A+A 2023 >

KC has integrated NFC tags into buttons and silicone patches, to allow consumers to create convenient shortcuts on their smartphones. Talon will now also roll out this concept on many of its existing product lines, including trims, Velcro patches, fasteners, and zippers.

TREND SETTING DEVELOPMENTS

TORQUE FOCUS

October 17-19, 2022 | Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas The International Fastener Expo is the most comprehensive B2B trade show that draws together the entire fastener industry from around the world. It is the largest B2B expo for fasteners, tooling and machinery in North America where attendees and suppliers connect to network, build new relationships, nurture current relationships, and do business. For more information about attending, please visit fastenershows.com/attend/ FOLLOW US: IntFastenerExpo @FastenerShow International Fastener Expo

Will Jones, Chief Operating Officer at BHETA collects the stats and provides the insights…

Total construction new orders were down in Q2 in the UK

A very sobering picture and disastrous for some. The DIY, tools and fixing category is not however one of the worst market

SERIOUS DOWNTURN ISSUES –BUT STILL AN OPPORTUNE MARKET

Gross domestic product (GDP) fell by 0.6% in June 2022 but was up 1.9% in the 12 months to June. Production fell by 0.9% in June, mainly because of a fall of 1.6% in manufacturing. Construction also fell by 1.4% in June 2022, following seven consecutive months of growth. The UK Manufacturing PMI fell to 46 in August 2022 from 52.1 in July, pointing to the first contraction in factory activity since May 2020. Total construc tion new orders decreased 10.4% (£1,355 million) in Q2 2022 compared with Q1; this is the largest quarterly fall in construc tion new orders since Q4 2020 (11.7%).

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HETA’s latest economic report (Q2) into DIY, garden, housewares and small domestic electricals coincides with BHETA’s latest member survey, and the outputs are very complementary. Whether we look at big data or qualitative feedback from companies and brands at the ‘coalface’ of the market, the same message is clear. The macro economic picture is seriously concerning, and there are no BHETA members expecting growth in the overall economy over the next 12 months. But, having said that, numbers of members are more positive about their own businesses’ prospects, with 17% expecting a better or much better year for their business. In fact, only 1 in 10 expect the next twelve months to be ‘much worse’, and just over half predict it will be only ‘slightly worse’. It seems it’s all about clever adaption in order to continue taking advantage of a sector which remains positive.

It would of course be madness to deny the situation we seem to be in as a nation. The Bank of England has forecasted the United Kingdom will enter a recession in the fourth quarter. A near doubling in wholesale gas prices since May is causing unprecedented increases in energy prices. This will exacerbate the fall in real incomes for UK households and further increase UK CPI inflation in the near term. We can quote a whole load more evidence of downturn and only have to listen to the media to see case study upon case study of scary consumer situations.

despite the YOY downturn. UK average house prices increased by 7.8% over the year to June 2022. Albeit down from 12.8% in May, the average UK house price was £286,000 in June, which is £20,000 higher than the same time last year. The knock on to home improvement – whether to sell or to stay – remains a positive factor to consider.

We need to keep educating and informing the new DIY consumer market – while of course offering support to the trade. We need to look carefully at supply chain for a myriad of reasons. The key message is that we have been forced into an era of quicker changes than we might have liked, but many are such that we should have had on the agenda anyway. While we adapt as we must, it is vital we keep the consumer on side.

GlobalData tells us that UK employment remains strong, and the housing market is relatively robust. So, there are positives. Weakening economic outlook is reducing the price of oil and some raw materials. Retail sales volumes rose by 0.3% in July 2022 following a fall of 0.2% in June 2022; sales volumes remain 2.3% above their pre COVID February 2020 levels,

affected – assuming we take action where we can. Of course we are down on those peaks of 2021, but thanks to lockdown’s influx of new consumers – and a still buoyant housing market – this category remains one of the most positive places to be.

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The house prices situation could have a positive impact on the home improvement market

So, despite the many alarms we now face, maybe it is not surprising that BHETA members are realistic but not despair ing in their view of the immediate prospects. While 53% expect UK orders to decrease, 29% expect a rise; and there is there is more confidence in export, with 38% predicting a rise in orders and only 27% expecting a decrease. DIY & gardening remains a much bigger category than it was before lockdown. Google

As you would expect the over riding concerns for BHETA members are inflation, raw materials and energy prices, and the impact on consumer demand. 93% are concerned about retailer acceptance of price rises and 83% concerned about supply chain issues, although at a lesser degree. The salutary fact is that the pandemic caused may companies to take steps that today’s economic threats would have made mandatory. In other words they are ahead of the game. According to BHETA’s member survey, lockdowns caused four out of ten businesses to change strategy, although for some that actually meant speeding up changes that were already underway. One of the big potential shifts is in routes to market. With 58% of members currently bringing in containers from Asia, just under a third are actively interested in switching sourcing back to European suppliers, with 15% having recently done so.

searches have declined versus this time last year but remain higher than 2019. GlobalData forecasts that 2022 will end about 6% higher than pre pandemic 2019. In short, there are now more people interested in the category, but they will have less disposable income to spend, so focus on showing value –whether expensive items showing long term ‘buy best buy once’ or on project ideas to increase multiple purchases – is clearly the way to go.

For more information about BHETA retailer networking and BHETA market data, contact the BHETA Member Services team on 0121 237 1130 or visit the BHETA website www.bheta.co.uk We have been forced into an era of quicker change than we might have liked, but many are such that we should have had on the agenda anyway. market

SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL A SPECIAL MAGAZINE ON SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES IN THE FASTENER AND TOOL INDUSTRIES. DIGITAL EDITION GOING LIVE > DECEMBER 2022WHAT WILL BE INCLUDED? AS SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES BECOME A MINIMAL REQUIREMENT FOR MAJOR CORPORATE CLIENTS AND END USERS, WE TAKE A CLOSE LOOK AT HOW FASTENER, TOOL, FIXING AND RELATED COMPANIES ARE TAKING STEPS TO MINIMISE THEIR CARBON EMISSIONS. THE SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL MAGAZINE WILL HIGHLIGHT EVERYTHING FROM CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL STRATEGIES TO RAIN WATER HARVESTING, INCLUDING: ISO 14001 CERTIFICATION • ELECTRIC FLEETS • RECYCLABLE PACKING END-OF-LIFE SYSTEMS • SUSTAINABLE LOGISTICS • RESPONSIBLE SOURCING NET ZERO CHAMPIONS AND AMBASSADORS • ECOVADIS SUSTAINABILITY RATINGS ESG STANDARDS • DYNAMIC LED LIGHTING, WATER MANAGEMENT & MORE HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED? HIGHLIGHT YOUR BUSINESS, SYSTEMS AND OPPORTUNITIES BY CONTACTING THE TEAM: Claire > UK Fasteners & Fixings claire@torque-expo.com Tom > UK Tools & North America Fastener & Fixings tom@torque-expo.com Harry > International RachelEDITORIALharry.whyte@torque-expo.comENQUIRIES: > Rachel@torque-expo.com

KRONUS n Wooden packaging n Pallet collars n Pallets n Wooden packaging accessories n Delivery solutions T +371 67515952 E info@kronus.eu W www.kronus.eu

TOGE is a manufacturer for fastening systems, located in Germany. For almost 60 years, the name TOGE has stood for a passion for developing and producing fastening systems tailored to the needs and wishes of our customers. In addition to metal anchors for the fastening of suspended ceilings as well as insulation and fire protection panels, TOGE is one of the pioneers of concrete screw technology.

The KRONUS philosophy is based on the idea of “People above the process”. Thanks to this approach, we have become a more flexible, cheerful, stimulating, creative and successful organisation.

TOGE Duebel GmbH & Co. KG n Concrete Screws n Insulating Panel Fasteners n Heavy Duty Fasteners & Fixings n Adhesive Screw Anchors n Bridge Cap & Parapet Anchors T +49 (0)911 659 68-0 E sales@toge.de W www.toge.de

DIRECTORY SPOTLIGHTS Abbott Fasteners Ltd n Stocked Imperial & Metric n All metal locking nuts including Vargal Philidas Stover n Largest stock of Genuine Helicoils in the UK T +44 (0) 1268 532 434 E sales@abbottfasteners.co.uk W www.abbottfasteners.co.uk Achilles Seibert n Torx screws/bolts n Hexagon socket screws/bolts n Hexagon head screws/bolts n Special/drawing parts T +49 4193 8955 E sales@achill-fasteners.com W www.achill-fasteners.com ADI Supply Ltd n Resin anchors n Shield anchors n Through bolts n Window frame screws n CFA approved tester E sales@adisupply.co.uk W www.adisupply.co.uk Albert Pasvahl n Fit Bolts n Plugs n Brass n Knurled thumb screws n Special scews T +49 [0] 40-532852-0 E info@pasvahl.de W www.pasvahl.de Ambrovit Bolts + Screws n Carpentry wood screws n Carpentry wood spacer screws n Carpentry wood terrace screws T + 39 (0)382 810280 E sales@ambrovit.it W www.ambrovit.com Apex Stainless Fasteners Ltd n Stainless steel fasteners & fixings n Aerotight nut n Stainless steel screws/nuts n Stainless steel washers T +44 (0) 1788 537979 E sales@apexstainless.com W www.apexstainless.com Arma Fixing Systems n Hose and pipe clamps n Locking type P clamps n Ear clamps n Metal clips and brackets n Plastic and metal fasteners T +90 212 549 57 31-32 E info@armafixing.com W www.armafixing.com Avon Stainless Fasteners n Marine products n Stainless fasteners n Stainless steel semi-standard T +44 (0) 117 972 8560 E sales@avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk W www.avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk YOUR HANDY GUIDE TO DISTRIBUTORS, SUPPLIERS AND MANUFACTURERS IN THE DIRECTORYINDUSTRY Chin Tai Sing Precision Manufactory n Brass Insert n Clinching Metal Fasteners n CNC Components n Automotive Components n Electronic Components T 886-4-26367001 E inquiry@ctsp-insert.com.tw W www.ctsp-insert.com.tw Chin Tai Sing offers precision molds for brass inserts, fasteners, and related productionProfessionalcomponents.designandstaffbringto bear over 20 years of experience in this field. The best technical staff, experienced operators, and outstanding foreign sales specialists work together to provide superior quality parts and OEM/ODM services. Valenta ZT s.r.o. n Threaded rods n Nuts and screws n Washers n Trapezoidal thread n Timber connectors T +420 315 698 020 E sales@valentazt.cz W www.valentazt.com Valenta ZT has been active on the fastener market since 1995. Becoming an important supplier for customers in the distribution chain of standard fasteners, supplying not only to the construction industry, but also to other fields of the industry such as engineering, power engineering and civil engineering. The main markets of Valenta ZT include the Czech Republic and European countries. Most stock items are shipped within one day. Welcome to this month’s NEW ADDITIONS >

Wooden packaging manufacturer with experience that spans almost three decades. Providing you with the best solutions for storing and transporting your goods.

Harrison & Clough Ltd n Fasteners & Fixings n Hand Tools n Power Tool Accessories n Industrial Consumables T 0844 571 22 22 E sales@harclo.com W www.harclo.com Hafren Fasteners n Security fasteners & fixings n Bespoke special security fasteners n Security fastener tooling & accessories n Security fencing bolts T +44 (0)1686 621 300 E info@hafrenfasteners.com W www.hafrenfasteners.com Gesipa Blindniettechnik GmbH n Blind rivets n Blind rivet nuts n Automatic riveting n Blind rivet tools n Setting process control T +49 (0) 6105 962 0 E info@gesipa.com W www.gesipa.com Deligo n Wedge nuts n Channel nuts n Wire suspension systems n Heavy and light duty fixings n Electrical accessories T +44 (0) 1384 824100 E sales@deligo.co.uk W www.deligo.co.uk DS Fasteners Ltd n All metal self locking nuts n Fine pitch nuts n High grade nylocs n Serrated flange bolts n Stover nuts T +44 (0) 1842 763 000 E nuts@dsfasteners.co.uk W www.dsfasteners.co.uk BRALO UK Ltd n Blind Rivets n Insert Nuts n Rivets tools n Fastener and Fixing n Lockbolt and Structural Rivets T +44 121 567 3230 E info@bralo.com W www.bralo.com Güde GmbH n Spring lock washers n Sperrkant washers n Sperrkant spring washers n Contact washers n Conical washers T 0049 2391 9190-0 E info@guede.net W www.guede.net FIXI Srl n Threaded Inserts n Blind Rivets n Self-Clinching Fasteners n Welding Studs n Brass Inserts T +39 011.7072398 E info@fixi.it W www.fixi.it Eurotec GmbH n Deck construction and landscaping n Timber engineering n Wood construction screws n Wood connectors n System connections for cross laminated timber structures T +49 2331 6245-0 E info@eurotec.team W www.eurotec.team CRC Industries UK Ltd. n Lubricants n Anti-Corrosion & Paints n Degreasers & Cleaners n Metal Working n Made in the UK T +44 (0)1278 727272 E sales.uk@crcind.com W www.actioncan.com Don Quichotte BV n Fastening and supporting n Connecting and distributing n Guiding and routing n Preventing and protecting T +31 492 74 50 00 E info@don-quichotte.nl W www.don-quichotte.nl Global Fasteners Limited n Bolts & nuts n Security screws n Woodscrews n Machine screws n PPE T +44 (0) 1384 480793 E sales@global-fasteners.co.uk W www.globalfasteners.co.uk Goebel Group n Blind Rivets n Blind Rivet Nuts n Rivet Setting Tools n 18V Cordless Riveting Tools n Lockbolts T +49211-245000-0 E info@goebel-group.com W www.goebel-group.com EJOT UK Ltd n Advanced Industrial Fastening n Advanced Automotive Screws n Construction Concrete Anchoring n Liebig Heavy Duty Anchors n Rainscreen Fastening Systems T +44 (0) 1977 687 040 E info@ejot.co.uk W www.ejot.co.uk Grand Metal Manufacturing GMM n Clinch & sheet metal fasteners n Self-clinching nuts, standoff, studs n Welding studs & standoff n Cage nut, rivet bushes, rivet nuts n Brass inserts for plastic T +86-139-2920-4841 E enquiry@grandametal.com W www.grandametal.com Brighton Best International n Hex Head Bolts/Sets 931/933 n Socket Screws n Dowel Pins n Stainless Fasteners n Washers/Nuts T +44 (0) 1384 568 144 E sales@brightonbest.org W www.brightonbest.co.uk Bolt World Fasteners Ltd n Stainless Steel Fasteners & Fixings n Threaded Bar n Security Fasteners & Fixings n Wood/Masonry Screws n Electrical Cables T +44 (0) 1375 767 780 E sales@boltworld.co.uk W www.boltworld.co.uk Boltfast n 10.9 hex bolts/set n 10.9 allthread n Class 10 full nuts n Grade 10 nylocs n Thru hardened washers Din6916 T +44 (0) 1922 749 357 E info@boltfast.co.uk W www.boltfast.co.uk BASS GmbH n Nut taps n Cutting taps n Roll taps n Thread milling cutters n Tap holders T +49 7932 892-0 E info@bass-tools.com W www.bass-tools.com TECHNIK FÜR GEWINDE Bodegraven Metaal N.V. S.A. n Threaded rods n Threaded studs n Studding n Allthread studs T +32 11 55 91 10 W www.bomet.com

NE Fasteners Ltd n Furniture Fasteners n Woodscrews n Kitting n Decking Screws n Drywall Screws T +44 (0)121 559 8866 E nefasteners@aol.com W www.nefasteners.co.uk Kebrell n Commercial fasteners & fixings n Automotive fasteners n Flange joint sets n Specials to drawing n 20,000 tonnes of stock T +44 (0) 121 526 6049 E kebrell@kebrell.co.uk W www.kebrell.co.uk Lederer GmbH n Stainless steel fasteners n Special parts by drawing n C-parts management T +49/2333/8309-0 E info@lederer-online.com W www.lederer-online.com K-Engineering n Allthread 1Mtr/3Mtr/3Ft n Washers n Nuts n Cup square n Roofing bolts T +44 (0) 1922 749 350 E info@k-engineering.co.uk W www.k-engineering.co.uk MATATAKITOYO TOOL CO., LTD. n Torque Tester n Digital Torque Wrench n Torque Wrench n Torque Screwdriver n Torque Multiplier T +886-4-2533-5893 E matatakitoyo@gmail.com W www.matatakitoyo.com Klimas Sp. z o.o. n Screws and fastening for wooden construction n Mechanical & Chemical Anchor n Fasteners for external insulations systems n Framework fasteners n System of fastenings for thermal and hydro insulation of flat roofs T +48 (34) 377 71 00 E marketing@wkret-met.com W www.klimas.com JET FAST COMPANY LIMITED n Rubber Nut-Insert n Metal Rivet Nut n Nylon Nut-Insert T +886-7-3740160 E jetfast@ms34.hinet.net W www.jetfast.com.tw n Extensive standard socket screw range ex-stock n Master distributor for Unbrako products n Manufacturer of specials to drawing n All thread locking + finishes inc Zinc, Geomet, Delta etc... T +44 (0) 121 515 0121 E sales@nssocketscrews.com W www.nssocketscrews.com OGL Software n Fully Integrated ERP Software n Cloud ERP Software n eCommerce Integration T +44 (0) 1299 873873 E software@ogl.co.uk W www.ogl.co.uk Peter Schröder GmbH n Inch Sized Fasteners n USA Fastener n MS – AN – Na n ASTM Standards n Special Screws and Parts T +49 713299600 E info@schroederschrauben.de W www.schroederschrauben.de SCHRODER Precision Technology Supplies n Stainless steel fasteners and fixings T +44 (0)1342 410758 E info@pts-uk.com W www.pts-uk.com pgb-Europe nv n Bolts & Nuts n Wood, chipboard and decking screws n Light duty anchors n Heavy duty anchors n Chemical anchors T +32 9 272 70 70 E info@pgb-europe.com W www.pgb-europe.com KARAT CORPORATIONINDUSTRIAL n Hand Rivet Tools n Hand Rivet Nut Tools n Air-Hydraulic Rivet Tools n Air-Hydraulic Rivet Nut Tools n Rivet Nuts and Blind Rivets T +886 – 2 – 8990 1800 E Sales@KaratTool.com W www.KaratTool.com Rapid Industrial Fasteners n Special fasteners and turned parts manufacturer n Duplex fasteners n Rapid manufacturing lead-times n Galvanised Threaded Bar n Galvanised Nuts, Bolts and Washers T +44 (0) 121 501 3903 E manufacturing@rapidfast.co.uk W www.rapidfast.co.uk Metabo (UK) Ltd n 12 Volt cordless tools n 18 Volt cordless tools n 18V Garden tools n Building trade and renovation n Metal craft and industry T +44 (0) 2380 732000 E info@metabo.co.uk W www.metabo.co.uk PECO Douwes B.V. n Special Fasteners n Security Fasteners n HSFG Boltsets (EN14399-4/6) n Duplex and Super Duplex 1.4462/1.4501 n Structural boltsets EN15048 (ISO 4014/4032 + 4017/4032) T +31-(0)15-3615200 E info@pdg.nl W www.pd-fasteners.nl INDEX A Perfect Fixing (Técnicas Expansivas S.L.) n Fixings (metal, chemical, plastic, ETICS…) n Screws, fasteners + accessories n Clamps (metallic and plastic) n Installation systems (Profiles, supports, accessories…) n Fixings for photovoltaic panels T +34 941.272.131 E info@indexfix.com W www.indexfix.com/en Hašpl a.s. n Loose nails n Collated nails (coil & strip) n Fasteners (screws, nuts, wood) n Timber connectors, tools n EPAL loose and coil nails T +420 491 401 711 E haspl@haspl.cz W www.haspl.cz Helmut Steinfels GmbH & Co. KG n Used machines for the fastener industry n Used machines for the wire industry n 2nd hand machinery for wire and fastener n Fastener production machines T 0049 40 522 60 13 E steinfels@steinfels-kg.de W www.steinfels-kg.de PROMOTEBUSINESSYOUR Appear in Torque’s print and digital throughoutmagazinestheyear CALL+44 (0) 1727 739160 FOR MORE DETAILS

Stafa n Bolts/Structural bolts/HV bolts n Nuts n Washers n Screws n Threaded rods T +31 495 599 888 E info@stafa.nl W www.stafa.nl The Insert Company (UK) Limited n Zinc alloy inserts n Steel inserts n Brass threaded inserts n Furniture connectors n Special turned parts T +44 (0) 121 4397329 E sales@theinsertcompany.com W www.theinsertcompany.com Tite-Fix Ltd n Construction & Engineering Screws n Decking Screws n Screw-Tite Multi-Purpose Screws n Specialist & Bespoke Screws T +44 (0) 1756 699 996 E sales@tite-fix.co.uk W www.tite-fix.co.uk Star Fasteners n Huck® Lockbolts & Blind Structural Fasteners n Associated Tool Hire, Service & Repair n VVG / Rivdom Tool Distributor n Fasteners & Fixings n Sealants & Adhesives T +44 (0) 115 932 4939 E sales@starfasteners.co.uk W www.starfasteners.co.uk Our part in every solution TOBSTEEL GmbH n High corrosion resistant fasteners & fixings n Stainless steel A2, A4, 1.4571, 1.4462, 1.4529 n 1.4462 (DUPLEX), 1.4529 (HCR) n DIN 125, 127, 439, 912, 931, 933, 934, 976, 980, 985, 1587, 6334, 7991 T +49 (0) 7941 6073-0 E info@tobsteel.com W www.tobsteel.com Taiwan Precision Fastener Co., Ltd. n Patented Wood Screw n Wood Screw n Mill Point Self-Drilling Screw n Self-Drilling Screw n Self-Tapping Screw T +886-7-616-2089 E fastener.comsales@taiwan-precisionW taiwan-precision-fastener.com TR Fastenings n Sheet Metal Fasteners n Enclosure Hardware n Plastic Hardware n Fasteners for Plastic n General Fasteners T +44 (0) 8454 811 800 E sales@trfastenings.com W www.trfastenings.com Smith Bullough n Blanks and finished stock n Metric and inch in all grades n Non standard bolting n Special forgings n Stainless and special alloys T +44 (0)1942 520250 E sales@smithbullough.com W www.smithbullough.com BulloughSmith Sheh Kai Precision Co., Ltd. n Hammer Drill Bits n Bimetal Concrete Anchors n Carbon Steel Concrete Anchors n Bimetal Screws n Stainless Steel Screws T 886-7-622 5669 E info@shehkai.com.tw W www.shehkai.com Socketfast n Socket caps n Socket countersunks n Socket buttons n Socket shoulder screws n Socket flange buttons T +44 (0) 1922 749 363 E info@socketfast.co.uk W www.socketfast.co.uk SPIROL Industries Ltd n Coiled Spring Pins n Inserts for Plastic n Compression Limiters n Disc Springs n Shims T +44 (0) 1536 444 800 F +44 (0) 1536 203 415 E info-uk@spirol.com W www.spirol.com TesT GmbH Testing Machines Testing machines and measuring devices for: n Bolts and fastening elements n Components n Materials n Custom applications T +49 211 209903-0 E test@test-gmbh.com W test-gmbh.com STAHLWILLE Eduard Wille GmbH & Co. KG n Torque Tools, Torque Testers n Spanners n Screwdrivers n Factory & workshop equipment n and more T +49 202 4791-0 E info@stahlwille.de W www.stahwille.de Tecfi SpA n Metal anchors & Concrete screws n Chemical anchors n Nylon plugs n Screws and connectors for wood n Screws and accessories for roofings T 0039 0823 88.33.38 E sales@tecfi.it W www.tecfi.it Trutek Fastening Systems UK n ETA approved products n Direct fastening n Chemical resins n Lightweight fixings n Carbide drilling T 0800 0129030 E info@trutekfixings.co.uk W www.trutekfasteners.euwww.trutekfixings.co.uk SUNCO INDUSTRIES JAPAN n JIS standard screws (1.4m items) n Semi assembled spring washers n Micro screws n Hexagon socket cap screws n Machine screws T +010-81-(0)6-6539-4011 E tradeinfo@sunco.co.jp W www.sunco.co.jp Schäfer + Peters GmbH n Screws n Nuts n Washers n Bolts n Stainless steel T +49(0)7941 6094-0 E info@schaefer-peters.com W www.schaefer-peters.com F. REYHER Nchfg. GmbH & Co. KG n Automotive Fasteners n DIN/EN/ISO Standard Articles n Galvanised Fasteners & Fixings n Stainless Steel Fasteners & Fixing n Wood & Construction screws T +49 40 853 630 E mail@reyher.de W www.reyher.de S&P n Design software for anchoring n Structural timbers n Installation systems n Reinforced concrete T +49 341 4424610 E info@sup-scs.de W www.sup-scs.de Scell-it Ltd n Heavy Duty Anchors n Chemical Anchors n Concrete Anchors n Rivets n Rivet Installation Tools T +44 (0) 1785 246539 E sales@scellit.co.uk W www.scellit.co.uk

Volt Industrial Plastics n Nylon products n Plastic fasteners n Plastic nuts n Plastic washers n Plastic spacers T +1 (870) 449-8027 W www.voltplastics.com Alloy & Stainless Fasteners n Bolts / Nuts / Studs n Sockets n Washers n Bent Bolts n Specials T +1 713 929 0480 E info@GoASF.com W www.GoASF.com Victory Fasteners Limited n Un threaded blanks n 10.9/12.9 Hex Bolt/Set n Din 6921 / ISO 4162 Hex Flge n Hardened Washers Din 6916/F436 n B7/L7 European Bolting T +44 (0)1902 544 480 E sales@victoryfasteners.com W www.victoryfasteners.com YOUR HANDY GUIDE TO NORTH AMERICAN DISTRIBUTORS, SUPPLIERS AND MANUFACTURERS IN THE DIRECTORYINDUSTRY ZAGO Manufacturing Co. n Sealing Screws n Sealing Nuts n Sealing Washers n Security/Tamper-Proof Seal Screws n Switch Boots T +1 (973) 643-6700 E info@zago.com W www.zago.com ND Industries, Inc. n Self-Locking & Sealing Fasteners n Adhesives & Sealants n Thread-Locking & Patch Products n NAS Fasteners T +1 248 288 0000 E info@ndindustries.com W www.ndindustries.com Advance Components n Palnut Push-On Fasteners n Cage Nuts n Threaded Inserts n Duplex Screws n Fulfillment Services T +1 (972) 446-5500 E sales@advancecomponents.com W www.advancecomponents.com 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. COST: Only SPECIAL PRINT EDITORIAL EXPOSURE (PROFILE) £500 / $650 / €650 INCLUDED AS PART OF THE DIRECTORY PACKAGE. for the year WPI Services BV n Packaging machines n Weighing machines n Counting machines n Packaging lines n Inspection machines T +31 703 067 100 E info@weighpack.nl W weighpackinternational.com Ttapdrive AS n Wood and construction screws n Wood screws n Construction screws n Drilling screws n Decking screws T +47 38 07 01 00 E info@ttapdrive.com W www.ttapdrive.com TORQUE MAGAZINE n Daily news website n Weekly email newsletter n 5 print magazines a year n 5 digital magazines a year n Events n International reach T +44 (0) 1727 739 160 E info@torque-expo.com W www.torque-expo.com

OCTOBER issue 068 ENHANCED DIGITAL Rivets, rivet tools and rivet technology Plugs, plasterboard and cavity fixings Janitorial supplies > Wipes, cleaners, sprays, etc NOVEMBER-DECEMBER issue 069 PRINT EDITION C-parts, logistics and Kanban Production line tools (rivet guns, assembly tools, torque wrenches, etc) Battery technology & smart tools Automotive fasteners & tools Surface treatment and coatings Building & Construction > Adhesives, tapes, sealants and Turkishfillersfastener manufacturing DECEMBER ENHANCED DIGITAL SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL > A special magazine on sustainable practices in the fastener and tool industries, covering company initiatives, ISO 14001 certification, recyclable packaging, end of life & related topics. JANUARY 2023 issue 070 ENHANCED DIGITAL Online catalogues, brochures and webshops IT services, software and e-business Electric vehicle fasteners and tools, and supply chain Advanced battery pack technology SHOW PREVIEW > Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2023 2022 FEATURES SUBMIT AN ARTICLE OR IDEA FOR CONSIDERATION TO jonathon@torque-expo.com REGULAR FEATURES BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION WOMEN IN FASTENERS & TOOLS APPRENTICE Q&A 5 MINUTES WITH… VIDEO INTERVIEWS WITH THE INDUSTRY NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2022 SPECIAL +INPROFILEDGETKANBANYOURBUSINESSANDINCLUDEDTHISSPECIALFEATUREHarryWhyte +49 172 6231 429 (Mobile) +49 6073 640201 (Office) harry.whyte@torque-expo.com DON’T MISS OUT – CONTACT ME TODAY C-PARTS, LOGISTICS

Torque Directory is a handy list of distributors and manufacturers, displayed all-year-round in print and digital issues of Torque Magazine. Digital readers can click directly through to supplier websites and listings reach 10,000 decision makers through the print magazines. £750 / €850 for the year Call +44 (0)1727 739 160 FOR MORE DETAILS YOUR HANDY GUIDE TO DISTRIBUTORS, SUPPLIERS AND MANUFACTURERS IN THE DIRECTORYINDUSTRY p.See stamping out the impact of theft globally www.hafrenfasteners.com ® Special Metals and Alloys Over 150 Material Grades 10,000 Ton Inventory Over 300 Machines We Service All Quantities Serving Distributors Worldwide Industrial Bolting 24-7 Emergency Service www.GoASF.com info@GoASF.com

ISSUEADINDEX067 September-October 2022 Achilles Seibert GmbH 17 Albert Pasvahl GmbH & C 77 Alloy & Stainless Fasteners 105 Ambrovit SpA 59 Apex Stainless Fasteners Ltd 75 Apex Tool Group BV 87 Avon Stainless Fasteners Ltd 41 Bäcker GmbH & Co KG 49 Berardi Bullonerie Srl 63 Berdan Civata B.C. 65 Brightonbest International UK Ltd 15 CHIN TAI SING PRECISION MANUFACTORY 51 D S Fasteners Ltd 61 Dongguan Grand Metal Manufactory (G M M) 45 Ejot UK Ltd 85 EuroTec GmbH 35 F. Reyher Nchfg. GmbH & Co. KG 67 Far srl – Fastening Systems 27 Fixi Srl 61 Garton Ltd t/a Smith Bullough 61 Goebel GmbH 25 Growermetal S.p.A 55 Güde GmbH 57 Hafren Security Fasteners 105 Harrison & Clough Ltd 37 Hašpl a.s. 97 HEICO Befestigungstechnik GmbH 51 Hisener Industrial Co. Ltd. 91 Index - Tecnicas Expansivas Sl 07 International Fastener Expo 93 Jiaxing Cavort Hardware Co., Ltd 89 Joseph Dresselhaus GmbH & Co KG 83 Klimas Sp Zoo 19, 20 Kronus 33 Lederer GmbH 06, 08 Marcopol Sp. z oo Producent Śrub 31 Martyn Price Fasteners 04, 10-11, 106 Matatakitoyo Tool Co., Ltd 105 Mecavit Srl 29 ND Industries 02-03 Nissei Co., Ltd 37 Nord-Lock International AB 79 O G L Computer Services Group Ltd 21 Olfor Marek Langalis 39 Optimas O E Solutions Ltd 43 Owlett-Jaton 108 P G B Europe NV 01, 52 Peter Schröder GmbH 83 Precision Technology Supplies Ltd 77 R & F K Schulte KG 47 Rapid Industrial Fasteners Ltd 53 Reinhardt GmbH 45 Remaches Factory srl 71 Rivit Srl 73 Schäfer + Peters GmbH 13 Sheh Kai Precision Co Ltd 63 Stafa Group 05 Sunco Industries Co. Ltd 95 Taiwan International Tools & Hardware Expo 69 Taiwan Precision Fastener Company Ltd 39 The Insert Company (UK) Ltd 09 Toge Dubel Gmbh & Co KG 81 Trutek Fasteners Polska Sp z o.o. 25 Valenta ZT Sro 45 Victory Fasteners Ltd 107 ZAGO Manufacturing Co Inc 83 STOCK EXPERTISE& TO SOLVE REQUIREMENT.ANY 01384 Washingtonmartynprice.co.uk424767MartynPriceLtd,Unit8,TheCentre,HalesowenRoad,Dudley,DY29REsales@martynprice.co.uk Fastener, Fixings & Associated Products business London area Busy Trade Turnover:Counter£1m+ For more details, and to receive a non-disclosure form, please write to: c/o Torque Magazine, 18 Alban Park, Hatfield Road, St Albans, Herts, AL4 0JJ CONFIDENTIAL RETIREMENT SALE

ISO ANSIDIN4762912BS2470B18.31936/1960BS4168ISO10642DIN7991ISO7380 CertiEuropean8.8/10.9/12.9B7/L7cation3.1FullyThreadedStandardsSpecials60°/90°DegM10>M64½”>2½” www.victoryfasteners.com | Email: sales@victoryfasteners.com Unit 4 & 5 Dunstall H ill Trading Estate • Gorsebrook Road Wolver hampton • West M idlands • W V6 0PJ Tel: +44 (0)1902 544480 Fax: +44 (0)1902 544481 8.8 10.9 12.9 B7/L7 ONE OF EUROPE’S LARGEST STOCKHOLDERS OF BLANKS & SEMI-FINISHED FASTENERS Whatever speciﬁcation your Socket products ..... .... We have it covered

QUALITY • SERVICE • PERFORMANCE R www.jrprivets.co.ukHIGHPOWERTOWEIGHTRATIOBRUSHLESS TECHNOLOGY FOR RELIABILITY AND EFFICIENCY ERGONOMIC DESIGN POWER • LIGHTWEIGHTSPEED DARTFORD ELLAND MILTON KEYNES STONE SWINDON t 01322 277733 t 01422 370121 t 01908 201600 t 01785 819819 t 01793 527829 www.owlett-jaton.com • www.jrprivets.co.ukCOMPETITOREQUIVALENTJRPRB65 JRP COMPETITOR WEIGHT DIFFERENCE 1.55kg 2.15kg 33% 1.60kg 2.15kg 26% 1.50kg 2.37kg 37% 1.64kg 2.37kg 31% MADE FOR PERFORMANCE 2.15kg 33% LIGHTER1.44kg E & OE