Torque Magazine issue 99 – October 2025

Page 1


125 years strongly connected

THE STANDARD DIN 912 | DIN 931 | DIN 933

HEXAGON HEAD DIN 6921 | ISO 4014 | ISO 4017 | DIN 960 | DIN 961

HEXAGON SOCKET HEAD DIN 7991 | ISO 10642 | DIN 6912 | DIN 7984 | ISO 7380 -1 & -2

THREADED SCREWS WITH HEXALOBULAR SOCKET ISO 14579 | ISO 14580 | ISO 14581 | ISO 14583

HEXAGON SOCKET SET SCREWS DIN 913/ISO 4026 | DIN 914/ISO 4027 | DIN 915/ISO 4028 | DIN 916/ISO 4029

THREAD ROLLING SCREWS DIN 7500 Form CE | DIN 7500 Form M

TAPPING AND DRILLING SCREWS DIN 7504 Form K | DIN 7981 | DIN 7982 | ISO 14585 |

HEXAGON NUTS DIN 934 | DIN 985 | DIN 980 | DIN 439 | DIN 6923 | ISO 4032 | ISO 7042

WASHERS DIN 125 | ISO 7089

PARALLEL PINS ISO 8734 | DIN 7979 Form D Achilles Seibert GmbH | Philipp-Reis-Straße 3 | D-24558 Henstedt-Ulzburg Phone +49 (0) 41 93 89 55 | sales@achill-fasteners.com

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GET READY PFAS-FREE

As the world‘s leading manufacturer of high-performance corrosion protection systems DÖRKEN consistently focuses on sustainability and environmental protection. In line with the current developments around the possible PFAS ban, we already o er our main products completely PFAS-free.

You can rely on innovative solutions that combine maximum performance and ecological responsibility.

Contact us.

Publisher Jerry Ramsdale jerry@torque-expo.com

Editor Jonathon Harker jonathon@torque-expo.com

Deputy Editor Rachel King rachel@torque-expo.com

Deputy Editor Simon Yuen simon@torque-expo.com

Sales Manager – UK Claire Warman claire@torque-expo.co.uk

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

UK Sales Manager – Tools Lloyd Ramsdale lloyd@torque-expo.com

Circulation Tracy Howell tracy@torque-expo.com

Head of Production Luke Wikner luke@torque-expo.com

Designers Dan Bennett Victoria Arellano

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Disclaimer

Although the utmost care is taken to ensure that information contained herein is accurate and up to date, the Publisher cannot be held responsible or in any way liable for errors or omissions during input or printing of any material supplied or contained herein. The Publisher also cannot be held liable for any claims made by advertisers or in contributions

06 NEWS

12 WOMEN IN FASTENERS > MAAYKEN SAEGEMAN, NORD-LOCK

14 COVER PROFILE > HEICO

18 FASTENER MANUFACTURING SPECIAL > FEATURING: VITERIA FUSANI, WAFIOS UMFORMTECHNIK, SCHUHL, SCG ENGINEERING, EUROTEC, VICTORY FASTENERS, SPIROL, OPTIMAS, SINTO AGTOS, GÜDE, PGBPOLSKA, SMITH BULLOUGH, BÄCKER GMBH, ÇETIN CIVATA, BOMET UK & ARMA

50 OPINION > APEX STAINLESS FASTENERS

54 SPOTLIGHT > BRALO

56 FOCUS > TORQUE TOOLS, TECHNOLOGY & BOLTING

64 BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION > ANCHORS

70 SPOTLIGHT > GESIPA

72 FOCUS > WIRE & FASTENER COLD HEADING

80 SPOTLIGHT > THE RIVET COMPANY

82 SPOTLIGHT > SUNCO

84 SHOW PREVIEW > BLECHEXPO

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CONSTRUCTION SECTOR TAKES AIM AT SILO MENTALITY

I made the trip to Construction Week at the NEC recently and the comprehensive seminar programme covered the big topics: digitalisation, skills, wellbeing, compliance, sustainability... all elements that are not going away anytime soon.

One common theme I picked up on was how important it is to resist the silo mentality. For sure, it is easier to compartmentalise challenges, but a significant push in the talks and roundtables I listened to were heavily in favour of a holistic approach.

The built environment is responsible for around 40% of carbon emissions and it’s going to be at the forefront in delivering one of the UK’s big ambitions – to retrofit circa 30 million homes with low carbon heating systems and energy efficient improvements.

Delivery of that aim is not going to be straightforward and is going to require a holistic approach that takes on board the views and expertise of different silos, if you will. The supply chain will need to be involved early, those who represent installers, those who protect consumers, manufacturers, training providers, the Government… it’s going to take a lot of cooperation to make it happen. (And clearly there’s a massive business opportunity there too).

Talking about rejecting silo mentality at a show is one thing, but making it happen in practice is another kettle of fish. But it’s encouraging to hear the energy and willingness among some of the big sector players (even when they don’t agree on the specifics) that working holistically and coop eratively will help the sector to move forwards, innovate and progress.

Jonathon Harker Editor

jonathon@torque-expo.com

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

BUMAX enters the smart bolt fray

The burgeoning smart fastener and fixing sector has grown with BUMAX’s Strainlabs partnership.

BUMAX bolts are now available with built­in preload sensors to enable remote preload monitoring, analysis and insights, using use Strainlabs sensor technology.

BUMAX bolts with Strainlabs sensors give peace of mind by verifying in real time that each individual bolt is securely fastened. Being able to monitor bolts remotely also reduces the need to

make manual inspections, which saves time – particularly when bolts are installed in inaccessible applications.

“Strainlabs and BUMAX have known each other for many years and have a great relationship,” said Csaba Madru, CEO of Strainlabs. “The two companies’ high level of expertise match each other perfectly.”

Strainlabs initiated the project by adding their sensors to BUMAX bolts and are available in BUMAX 88 and BUMAX 109 from dimensions M10 to M27.

BUMAX® 88 highstrength bolts with Strainlabs’ pre­load monitoring solution are currently being piloted on the Øresund Bridge railway track between Sweden and Denmark.

www.bumax-fasteners.com www.strainlabs.com

BIG NAME EXHIBITORS RETURN FOR TORQUE-EXPO TELFORD 2026

Key industry names have already signed up for Torque­Expo 2026, the one­day event bringing fasteners, fixings and tools under one roof.

Tuesday 12 May 2026 will see Torque­Expo run again in Telford International Centre (TIC), its home for successful shows at the venue in 2022 and 2024. The one­day event includes a B2B exhibition, a conference programme and an innovation zone.

Once again, the expo will be followed by a Networking Evening (sponsored by Optimas) and an awards presentation, highlighting the industry’s latest developments and achievements.

The list of exhibitors already signed up reads as a “who’s who” of key UK fastener and fixing companies, comprising wholesalers, manufacturers and service providers, including:

• BIAFD

• Böllhoff UK

• Bond It

• Bralo UK

• Brighton­Best International

• Brit­Pax

• Confederation of British Metalforming

• Deltaleigh

• Epicor Software UK

• Fabory UK

• Harrison & Clough

• Klipboard

•Lancaster Fastener

• Martyn Price Fasteners

TUESDAY

12 MAY 2026

• Merlin Business Software/Aptean

• OGL Software

• Owlett­Jaton

• Optimas

• Precision Technology Supplies

• Rapid Industrial Fasteners

• Smith Bullough

• Tite­Fix

• Tom Carrington

• Victory Fasteners

Interested in exhibiting?

Please get in touch with Claire Warman on +44 (0)1727 739160 or claire@torque-expo.com

Keep an eye on our show webpage for more exhibitor updates and to pre-register in advance: events.torque-expo.com

GALLEON FIXINGS STRENGTHENS LEADERSHIP TEAM

Dormole Group’s fixings division, Galleon Fixings, has made a series of senior appointments, bringing three members of ForgeFix’s management team into key roles at Galleon Fixings.

Paul Swift (left), currently Managing Director of ForgeFix (also part of Dormole Group) has been appointed Managing Director of Galleon Fixings. Overseeing the company’s relocation to new facilities at Bessemer Park, Sheffield, Swift is also tasked with driving the continued growth of the fixings and fasteners division. Swift will continue to serve as Managing Director of ForgeFix alongside his new responsibilities.

In addition, Paul Simpson, Head of Sales at ForgeFix, has been appointed Sales Director, while Rebecca Fortescue­Halliwell, Head of Marketing and Digital Strategy, joins as Marketing Director.

All three new appointees will join the newly formed Board of Galleon Fixings, alongside existing Board Directors Mark Revak, Mark Dorrington, Tony Armitt and Claire Mulvey. These appointments follow the retirement of outgoing Galleon Fixings CEO Michael Brown. www.dormole.net

Midlands sales manager update

Samac Fixings has announced the appointment of Jennifer Walters as its West Midlands Area Sales Manager.

“I’m delighted to join Samac Fixings as the Area Sales Manager for the West Midlands. Their reputation in the UK construction sector for quality products, exceptional service and excellent stock availability is second to none,” says Jennifer. “As a family­run business, I also love the fact they can offer merchants and their customers a complete fastening solution from a single supplier.”

www.samacfixings.co.uk

ASK FOR THEM BY NAME...

New wave, big hair, shoulder pads — not everything from the 1980s was designed to last forever. On the other hand, Nord-Lock invented the original wedge-lock washers that have been trusted to secure bolted joints ever since we began innovating the technology in 1982.

By using geometry instead of friction, Nord-Lock washers prevent bolts and nuts from loosening unintentionally. Engineers ask for them by name, and they’re a standard-bearer for safety in construction and industry. So, as the world changes through the decades, remember that a Nord-Lock washer is made to last.

GLOBAL NEWS ROUND-UP

Selected news from the fasteners, fixings and tools industries around the world…

NORTH

ENDRIES NAMES CHIEF FINANCIAL AND LEGAL OFFICER >

Endries has appointed Ryan Long as Chief Financial and Legal Officer. Previously, Long was General Counsel and Vice President of Business Integration at the company, playing a pivotal role in guiding the company through legal matters, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic growth initiatives. Long succeeded Dan Crociata, who was promoted to President and CEO in May of 2025.

NORTH AMERICA 02

ACE HARDWARE OPENS RETAIL SUPPORT CENTRE IN KANSAS CITY >

Ace Hardware has opened a new retail support centre in Kansas City, Missouri, the US.

Covering 1.5 million square feet, the facility is nearly twice the size of the company’s average distribution centre and is equipped with advanced automation technology and efficiency systems. The centre is also designed to streamline operations, reduce environmental impact and advance the company’s long­term sustainability goals.

UNITED KINGDOM 04

ATLAS METALS GROUP PROPOSED £1BN ACQUISITION >

UNITED KINGDOM – 03

SCELL-IT UK AND KAMTECH FASTENERS REBRAND AS THE RIVET COMPANY >

Scell­it UK and Kamtech Fasteners have rebranded as The Rivet Company, marking a step to simplify operations and strengthen supply across the UK and Ireland. The new identity unites the merged businesses of Scell­it UK, Kamtech Fasteners and Arpel. Together with partner company Rivco, The Rivet Company will serve as the exclusive distributor of the ELEMENT brand in both markets. Backed by multiple European Technical Assessment (ETA) approvals, ELEMENT has been established in Europe for more than 15 years. It will now replace the former Scell­it UK Group product branding of ARK and Scell­it. Read more on page 80.

Atlas Metals Group has signed a conditional share purchase agreement to acquire Universal Pozzolanic Silica Alumina (UPSA) in a transaction valued at £1 billion. UPSA, a privately­owned company incorporated in England and Wales, is the owner of one of the world’s largest reserves of pozzolanic silica alumina (PSA) which is a core constituent of green concrete. Given concrete production is responsible for around 8% of global CO₂ emissions, in the global mission to reduce carbon emissions through net zero targets, UPSA said it stands at the forefront of sustainability in construction.

EUROPE 05

AUSTRIAN FASTENER COMPANY

BECK JOINS CAS >

Austrian fastener and tool company BECK has joined the Cordless Alliance System (CAS). BECK is joining the CAS with three devices: the BECK Cordless Brad Nailer 55 mm, the BECK Cordless Narrow Crown Stapler 40 mm, and the BECK Cordless Framing Nailer 33°, 90 mm. The company said that joining the CAS is a “strategic step that meets the requirements of modern craft and industrial businesses”. There’s more on CAS on page 58.

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PACIFIC 07

TR SINGAPORE UPGRADES FASTENER CLEANING WITH ECO-FRIENDLY TECHNOLOGY >

TR Singapore, part of the Trifast plc Group, has upgraded its fastener cleaning process with a new vacuum solvent cleaning machine supplied by Italian manufacturer IFP Europe, aiming to increase workplace safety and sustainability. Installed in April 2025, IFP’s KP100 system delivers “superior cleaning performance” while maintaining air purity in the factory and removing hazardous exposure for operators. The system replaced the legacy kerosene­based method with a safer, closed­loop solution that improves operator safety, enhances air quality, and reduces environmental impact by recycling solvent for reuse.

MKT RECEIVES DGNB PLATINUM CERT FOR SUSTAINABILITY

>

MKT Metall­Kunststoff­Technik GmbH & Co. KG in Germany has made significant investments in expanding its facility. The new building meets the highest environmental standards, conserving both energy and resources. It has been awarded the Platinum Certificate from the German Sustainability Building Council (DGNB), the first ever issued for a manufacturing plant.

PACIFIC 08

OPTIMAS OPENS NEW BRANCH IN SINGAPORE >

Optimas has opened a new entity in Singapore, aiming to enhance supply chain efficiency and help mitigate geopolitical risks within the region. The expansion offers increased support for suppliers and “further enables Optimas to continue delivering efficiency, service and cost advantages that customers expect”.

INTERVIEW WOMEN IN FASTENERS

MAAYKEN SAEGEMAN

Maayken Saegeman, Sales Engineer at Nord-Lock Group, has built a career in the fastener industry by combining technical curiosity with a passion for problem-solving. Saegeman talks role models and the effect guest lectures at schools and companies can have to broaden the industry’s scope…

How did you get into the industry?

By coincidence. I was looking for a sales job, and one of our customers had an interesting vacancy nearby. The sales manager at the time valued enthusiasm over experience or technical background and gave me a chance.

What does your day-to-day job involve?

I focus on finding and approaching larger end users of NordLock washers, showing them how our products can save significant time and money in maintenance. This means sitting down with designers, engineers and maintenance teams. In addition, I give guest lectures at schools and companies. By introducing young people to our products, we hope to build long­term partnerships.

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

The steady decline in technical knowledge and the increasing difficulty of finding skilled people. Somehow, the job no longer seems attractive, even though it is a fascinating and varied field.

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

I’m naturally very curious and have immersed myself in AI technology and how it can support sales and marketing engineering. It’s a very interesting area, and I am now part of a working group focused on it.

What is your favourite thing about the fastener industry?

The versatility. Everything is held together by nuts and bolts including wheelchairs, wind turbines and rockets. That gives you a behind­the­scenes look at all kinds of companies and the chance to talk to all sorts of people. I still find it fascinating.

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

More role models – leading by example is key. In companies with more women in management, more women tend to apply for vacancies as well.

The lack of women actually starts in the classroom. I sometimes give guest lectures in secondary and higher education, and women still make up less than 5% of the audience, so there’s still work to be done.

On LinkedIn and Instagram, I follow several women in typically male professions. They share inspiring stories and portray technical and scientific jobs in a heroic light.

At the same time, I think we should accept that women and men often make different choices, including when it comes to careers.

If you could, what piece of advice would you give your younger self as you started working in the fastener industry?

Try less to please everyone and trust your own vision and goals more. Be selective about whose advice you take – people often give advice out of caution, and just because someone is successful in one area doesn’t mean their advice will work in another.

Try more and know that failing is not a problem. You can always try something else.

Any final thoughts?

As a woman in a male­dominated industry, you stand out, and you can use that to your advantage in a positive way. I have to honestly say that – except for the occasional awkward comments – I have never really encountered sexism. Most people know what is and isn’t appropriate in 2025.

www.nord-lock.com

// I give guest lectures at schools and companies. By introducing young people to our products, we hope to build longterm partnerships //

1900-2025: HEICO CELEBRATES 125 YEARS

Since its early days, HEICO’s production business has evolved into a cutting-edge producer of parts for the most demanding of industries. While firmly innovation-focused, HEICO is proud of where it came from and maintaining its family-owned roots. Jonathon Harker speaks with General Manager Jan Bernd Heimann – the fourth-generation owner of the business – and Sales Manager Tobias Grobe

For any business celebrating a big anniversary, there’s a fine balancing act to be made. You want to celebrate the past, but not at the expense of emphasising all the latest innovations and developments the company has been investing in. It is, after all, those elements that will help secure the future of the company for the decades ahead.

HEICO is just such a company that draws on a rich history of manufacture, with decades of tradition and experience in the field of fastening and forming technology. The firm began 125 years ago but it would be understating things to say it’s moved on significantly, particularly in recent years. A strong investment programme has seen the firm add new machines not only for cold forging, but also in its production site in terms of processes and sustainability. Now, the firm is a very innovative, modern company.

That’s a point exemplified at the time of Torque Magazine’s visit to HEICO’s headquarters in Ense, 40km from Dortmund. During the visit, the manufacturer was working on adding demanding new sector­specific certifications, as well as organising the arrival of a number of significant new advanced machines to expand its capabilities and potential reach into different markets.

Investing to unlock future capabilities

On site, Torque Magazine saw recently installed equipment, with further additions already scheduled. Among them were new packaging lines, cold forging presses and systems for secondary operations.

“In the past few years, we’ve made major investments in our production technology – from multi­stage presses to semi­hot forging systems – building a genuinely modern manufacturing base,” says General Manager Jan Bernd Heimann. “It’s important that every visitor leaves with a clear understanding of how we work, and with full confidence in the reliability of our products. Our facilities are state­of­the­art, transparent and can be audited easily – we are moving forward with confidence.”

Staying ahead of customer expectations is what drives this approach. “By investing in outstanding technology, we are securing the competitiveness of tomorrow.”

Sales Manager Tobias Grobe adds: “We take part in a lot of exhibitions to promote our products on a global scale. We send our goods to 81 countries and have 430 employees globally. We’ve 120 production machines and 32,000 m² production area. Every month, we are producing approx. 218 million parts. In addition to our bolt locking and pre­tensioning

systems, we can manufacture cold­forged parts ranging from simple rivets or ball studs up to complex, customised parts.

“Besides our core production capabilities, we are able to do annealing, inductive hardening, hardening, self­tempering… all in­house.”

Tradition, innovation and R&D

HEICO’s achievements have been down, in no small part, to its R&D efforts. Heimann says: “We believe we can only be successful if we have a sizeable investment in R&D and innovative ideas. Otherwise, products could be bought somewhere else easily, right? We need to be flexible and aim to set ourselves apart from other companies. This is very important, so we have concentrated in the last 15 years on these areas, finding fields of applications or products which help us to grow.

“Over the past decades, we have significantly expanded the number of employees dedicated to developing new technical solutions. Innovation is not something you can simply switch on or off – it is a continuous process of becoming more innovative and meeting customer needs and solving their challenges in the fastener industry.”

In terms of innovation, the inception of HEICO­LOCK® Wedge Lock Washers, launched in 2010, was a milestone. Designed for maximum reliability even under extremes of

// In the past few years, we’ve made major investments in our production technology... building a genuinely modern manufacturing base //

vibration or dynamic loads, the Wedge Lock System precipitated entering new sectors and geographical markets.

The HEICO­LOCK® Wedge Locking Systems with their wide range of different bolt locking devices, form a key part of the core business – complementing the two other divisions HEICOTEC® Tensioning Systems and HEICO­FORM Cold Forging Parts.

State of the art

“Our testing and measuring technology are state of the art,” Grobe tells Torque Magazine, revealing that the firm’s extensive quality equipment can handle vibration testing up to M64, something few others can reportedly offer.

Heimann picks up the point: “Our quality laboratory is a major focus for us and an area where we have developed ourselves a lot. Customers facing bolting challenges are encouraged to reach out to us. They bring us their application and then we analyse it… and of course, provide tailored solutions using our products.”

That in­house capability is backed with a bright network of sales engineers and certified Fastener Engineers (DSV), all bringing technical expertise and hands­on experience to support its customers.

Contrary to other companies, HEICO has always effectively leveraged challenging times to its advantage. “We take advantage of economically difficult periods to refine our products and processes, strategically investing in promising ideas and machinery to drive future success. I believe that every crisis makes us stronger, and I face them with confidence, not fear.”

HEICO stayed resolute amid the disruption and uncertainty of Covid, with Jan Bernd Heimann pushing forward its ongoing expansion programme. That bold decision has paid off, positioning the company to confidently embrace the next phase of growth and innovation.

30% of HEICO's energy needs are now met through renewable sources

HEICO General Manager Jan Bernd Heimann (right) who leads the business with Frank Lutter, Head of R&D Department

HEICO

HEICO’s investment programme has recently seen new packaging lines, cold forging presses and systems for secondary operations, with more scheduled for the coming months

“What’s the story with the polar bear?”

The firm has long concentrated on production and sales, but HEICO is increasingly seeing the value of marketing and outreach. It partakes in a huge number of exhibitions, in part for that purpose. And in terms of sticking in someone’s mind, HEICO has an additional ace up its sleeve – probably one of the most memorable logos of any firm in the fastener business.

“When customers come and visit us, they always ask, what’s the story with the polar bear?”

The logo of approximately 100 years ago featured a polar bear stepping on a ‘push pin’. The story goes that these were often poor quality and broke when pressure was applied to the head. HEICO solved this problem with a stronger product, using a special riveting process, capable of withstanding strong forces (figuratively illustrated by a polar bear).

Sustainability

HEICO has had its foot on the throttle regarding sustainability for some years now and 30% of its energy needs are met through renewable sources, including Biogas, which is produced just a few kilometres away. Clever building management systems mean HEICO can switch off departments, specific areas and machines whenever required, making energy use supremely efficient. There’s a business need to be more sustainable, but the firm is also passionately behind the topic (“Sustainability is a corporate commitment. We can no longer operate as we did in the past”).

The firm also has some eye­catching ESG commitments too. You can find animals in the grounds of the business. It taps into the social commitment of this family­owned company. Kindergartens, groups and clubs are among the visitors who make the trip to spend time with and look after the animals, firmly placing HEICO as a resource and hub to benefit and connect locals.

Family values

One of the through lines from HEICO’s past to the present is passion. There is no doubt this has something to do with the fact the firm is a fourth­generation family­owned company.

“I think our values are very important. This year, we are celebrating the 125th Jubilee, and 125 years as an industrial company. It’s a long story, with some good years and some really exciting years. And to be honest, we are very positive for the future.”

Jan Bernd Heimann is the owner as well as General Manager of the HEICO Group. Part of the fourth generation of the founding family, he officially started with the company around 20 years ago. The HEICO management team also includes Head of Sales Tobias Grobe who has 27 years of experience with the company. He says: “As Jan explained, when customers visit us, they should feel the HEICO spirit – a culture of professionalism, passion and innovation – and leave inspired, confident and assured that they are working with a company they can truly trust.”

HEICO – Setting the standard in fastener innovation

There have been many milestones for HEICO over the 125 years, with 2015’s ‘most innovative company’ award a recent highlight. A year later saw the firm launch its HEICO­TEC® Tensioning Systems. In 2024, the HEICO­LOCK® Combi­Washers picked up the Best Industry Award, showcasing the increasing expertise of the R&D brains at HEICO. The patented combi­washers feature an inner plastic ring with small tabs, allowing the locking device to be pre­assembled with any bolt type: a clear advantage over standard locking bolts. In addition, the user’s hands remain free during assembly, with no need to handle bolt and washer separately.

HEICO’s latest innovations are the revolutionary, patented HEICO­LOCK® Reaction Washers, engineered specifically for use with high­torque tools. Successfully launched in autumn last year, these washers enable reaction­arm­free tightening of large bolted joints while effectively protecting bolts against self­loosening. In addition, HEICO offers a special counterwasher to accommodate movement on the passive side of the bolt connection. Beyond the two­washer based HEICO­LOCK® system, the new HEICO­ONE Safety­Washer operates with just a single washer, providing an efficient and reliable solution for a wide range of applications.

Wedge Locking Systems

The approved system for bolt securing

Easy, fast and reliable assembly of large bolted joints

FASTENER MANUFACTURING SPECIAL

Torque Magazine speaks with 16 supply-chain-shortening companies in our latest Fastener Manufacturing Special, bringing production insights, trends and techniques from Europe, the UK and Turkey...

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FASTENER MANUFACTURING SPECIAL

VITERIA FUSANI CELEBRATES 70 YEARS

Even with decades of experience and expertise, Viteria Fusani understands the need to continue to evolve and innovate as a company, responding to the diverse needs of its customers. Sales Manager Isabella Fusani fills us in on the latest at the Italian manufacturer…

2025 has been a big year for Viteria Fusani, celebrating its 70th anniversary in the market. The manufacturer is a specialist in producing customised screws, expert in producing high­quality, large quantities.

To mark the milestone year, the firm held a special Celebration Lunch with all its employees as well as giving them a special 'experience' gift to remind them of the seven decades in business.

Naturally, the company has evolved significantly across those 70 years, with recent major milestones including the building of a new modern, bigger, eco­friendly plant in 2014. Since then, the firm has continued to innovate and in 2020 achieved its IATF 16949 automotive certification.

Things haven’t exactly stood still this year either, with 2025 proving to be a year of investment as well as celebration. When Torque Magazine talked with Viteria Fusani earlier in ‘25, a long list of updates were planned including new cold forming machines, improved forklifts and automatic loading systems for threading machines. Sales Manager Isabella Fusani picks up the story: “Most of the investments have been completed – the last cold forming machine will be ready by the end of the year.

“Some of our new machines have allowed us to improve our production schedules and reduce the risk of machine breakdowns. The new fork lifts have provided more safety and due to the better functions we are able to be more accurate. The loading systems for threading machines guarantee screw loading continuity, while also reducing manual loading movements of our employees, providing physical benefits for our workers.”

Numerous additional projects are ongoing underway too, including the plan to achieve environmental certification ISO14001 – now expected to be obtained by the end of Q1 2026.

Market outlook

Viteria Fusani’s 70 years in business has seen plenty of peaks and troughs in the market, and Covid has of course been responsible for some sizeable changes in recent years.

“2024 was a very good year. 2025 started off well though after Q1, the market started slowing down. However we predict our closing year results to be in line with 2024.

“Post­ Covid, we have recently seen many companies chose to do business closer to home. The increase of meetings online has helped companies build relationships virtually.

“The impact for us was high 'peaks' of demand, which created a real demand boom for European countries. This also created a fluctuation in terms of raw material and energy prices. Now the demand curve is stable. We foresee that when the political/ war situations will cease, the markets will respond accordingly.”

And disruption has yet to ebb away, not least with tariff uncertainty regarding the US: “Against a backdrop of a difficult economic situation, one challenge could be for companies and customers to keep prioritising quality service over low cost products and markets.”

Aside from the aforementioned projects like ISO14001, Viteria Fusani is planning for its appearance at key industry show Fasterner Fair Italy – Milano across 24­25 June 2026. The firm is also planning to expand its production line to include clamping screws, it reveals to Torque Magazine

Isabella Fusani concludes: “During these last few years we have continued to evolve and innovate as a company, responding to our clients' diverse types of need. We take great pride and are greatly rewarded when we see our customers happy and satisfied with work that we do.”

www.viteriafusani.it

FASTENER MANUFACTURING

SCREW INDEPENDENT

WAFIOS Umformtechnik explain the reasons and benefits why a company now manufactures its own screws

Before the pandemic, the topic of supply chains hardly figured for most consumers and even for many companies. However, it was not only health crises that put pressure on global supply networks, but also geopolitical tensions, cyberattacks and volatile commodity markets. This became particularly painful when even the simplest C­parts such as screws were missing and complete delivery obligations could not be met.

Experts assume that significant disruptions are also to be expected in the coming years, with direct consequences for manufacturing companies.

The case of a WAFIOS Umformtechnik customer: When screws became an Achilles’ heel

A practical example shows how vulnerable companies are in this area. A customer who had previously purchased screws as a low­cost C­part from external suppliers was confronted with several delivery failures. In some cases, elementary fasteners were missing, so that assemblies could not be delivered and delivery obligations remained unfulfilled – with considerable economic and reputational damage. The recurring bottlenecks, coupled with strongly fluctuating product quality for purchased screws, led to a rethink. The goal: more independence, a higher vertical range of manufacture and consistent product quality –even at the price of higher unit costs.

Why in-house production prevailed despite additional costs

The customer intensively discussed the project for the inhouse production of screws. In particular, the aspect of the higher costs per C­part was viewed critically, after all, it initially seemed contradictory from a business point of view to produce a cheap C­part yourself at great expense.

But the management sent a clear signal – the independence gained and process reliability justified the additional price.

The most important reasons:

• Maximum security of supply: In­house production capacities make the company independent of global supply chains and short­term disruptions.

• Avoidance of quality problems: Fluctuating screw quality of the purchased items had repeatedly led to problems and rework. With in­house production, consistent and good quality is guaranteed.

• Expansion of vertical integration: Screw production enables more flexible and faster product development, as special sizes and individual adaptations can be realised without external dependencies.

• Strategic resilience: In a geopolitically and economically uncertain environment, independence from a few suppliers is increasingly becoming a competitive advantage.

Unit costs are increasingly taking a back seat to strategic considerations, especially where dependence on external supply is seen as a costly risk factor

The extra price that pays off in the long run

This practical example shows that what used to be considered a business anachronism, the in­house production of simple Cparts is developing into a future­proof strategy in times of unstable supply chains. Even if the unit costs are higher, the benefits of security of supply, constant quality and flexibility are much more significant.

//

Over the past few years, WAFIOS Umformtechnik has advised several companies on the transition from purchasing to in-house production //

Companies that invest in their own production capacities for previously purchased products at an early stage secure decisive advantages in the long term in an uncertain market environment. The discussion about unit costs is increasingly taking a back seat to strategic considerations, especially since dependence on external sources of supply is increasingly becoming a costly risk factor.

Over the past few years, WAFIOS Umformtechnik has advised several companies on the transition from purchasing to inhouse production. To this end, part drawings are analysed, forming processes are virtually software simulated, and test series of customer parts are carried out on WAFIOS' own machines.

www.wafios-umformtechnik.de

FASTENER MANUFACTURING

COST AND ENERGY EFFICIENT

Through shifting machining processes to cold forming, Schuhl produces fastening solutions with lower manufacturing cost and overall carbon footprint…

Schuhl is a family­owned and controlled company based in Winterberg, North Rhine­Westphalia, Germany, supplying the automotive, electrical and electronics sectors, along with their supply chains, with a wide range of cold­formed parts and fastening solutions. The company specialises in nut production, offering dimensions from M3 to M24, including its signature Comby® Nuts with captive washers, as well as square, hexagonal and rectangular formats.

Across almost every sector, components made from steel, non­ferrous metals, brass, copper or even precious alloys – including lead­free grades – are still widely produced by machining or stamping. But that isn’t always the most efficient option. Schuhl has built its reputation on developing and producing high­quality, innovative cold­formed parts, offering an alternative that can deliver both performance and efficiency.

In recent years, Schuhl has increasingly shifted machining processes over to cold forming, working closely with customers to make the transition without sacrificing quality.

The company’s multi­stage cold forming machines, which can heat materials up to 900°C, are capable of handling a wide

Top: Special copper nut, highly conductive for the electrical industry

Bottom: Connecting element with multiple drive (thread and hexalobular internal drive ISO 10664-50)

range of metals. Parts are then subject to optoelectronic quality testing to ensure consistency.

Digital tools are another cornerstone of Schuhl’s production strategy. CAD design, simulation and 3D printing are used to identify and address potential problem areas before production begins, helping to reduce material waste and press defects.

With a fleet of more than 100 machines, Schuhl combines advanced techniques with resource­efficient planning to achieve significant savings. The company estimates manufacturing costs can be cut by as much as 70% compared to conventional processes – while also lowering the overall carbon footprint.

www.schuhl.de

SPECIAL

SCG ENGINEERING: FASTENERS MADE IN ENGLAND

SCG Engineering has been steadily building its capabilities, bringing on board more machinery and acquisitions as it evolves and establishes itself as one of the UK’s few fastener manufacturers. Torque Magazine speaks with Director Shaun Collinson

Despite being one of the newer names on the fastener manufacturing block, SCG Engineering is steeped in fastener production knowledge and expertise. Formed five years ago, its founding Directors all have plenty of experience in making fasteners for a multitude of different sectors.

Now SCG Engineering stands as one of the few UK fastener manufacturers in existence. It stocks, distributes and manufactures everything from M6 to M64 in normal non­exotic and exotic steels, in stock grades including 4.6, 8.8, 10.9, 12.9 and stainless steel A2/A4.

And the firm is expanding its capabilities all the time. SCG Engineering Director Shaun Collinson picks up the story: “We've just recently commissioned an operational forging machine and related equipment to further widen our scope of production and keep as many processes ‘in­house’ as possible. Now, we can raw manufacture as well as modify standard and non­standard parts. We can now hot forge up to M36 in diameter and one metre in length.

“We are always looking at investing in, and buying, machinery. We recently brought in additional threading machines, lathes, plus several state­of­the­art thread rolling machines… CNC machines are on the agenda too.”

SCG Engineering operates as a group of companies with Midland Engineering Ventures, who recently acquired J Hall & Sons, which boosted the company with more storage capacity, more machinery, and has “significantly grown our capabilities and strengthened our position within the UK fastener manufacturing market.”

SCG Engineering is a lean firm with just ten employees working within it, which has come in handy in an economy that has been hard to predict. Collinson tells Torque Magazine: “Since the government changed around this time last year, it’s been odd. November was quiet, then we had the best December in the history of the company.

“We’ll be down by the end of this year, compared with 2024, but I think last year was the peak of the supply and demand issue from Covid. Lately we’ve seen some unusually low prices from the Far East and Trump tariffs have influenced the market... but in the last month or so, it seems to have perked back up again. Thanks to the fact we are lean, we don't need to do chase turnover as much as other companies, but, we are always mindful and want to keep pushing forward in all aspects.”

// Lately we’ve seen some unusually low prices from the Far East and Trump tariffs have influenced the market... but in the last month or so, it seems to have perked back up again //

Made in England

SCG Engineering is unafraid to lean into the UK’s manufacturing heritage, and with the world’s supply chains recently exposed to extreme disruption, that seems a sensible bet: “We strongly believe that ‘Made in England’ and UK manufacturing is going to go ‘full circle’. It could be two years, five years… but we are ready. We have extended knowledge in all industries, all sectors, materials, grades, finishes… you name it.”

While the firm predominantly supplies UK businesses for now, it has picked up more export business as it has evolved. One recent win saw it supply very particular components to the leisure industry. Next time you ride a roller coaster in Orlando, it might be one of those that are held together with SCG Engineering­made fasteners.

Undoubtedly, the experience of the team is a huge selling point, and that lean staffing structure means that customers don’t have to go through layers of management to get a decision: “If you asked me if we can do a job, I'll tell you on the spot if we can do it or not.”

The business has firm plans in place as it further establishes itself. Collinson concludes: “We'd like to add a few more companies to the portfolio. In the long term we plan to increase our machinery capabilities and maybe add another couple of staff.”

www.scgengineering.co.uk

MANUFACTURING

SPECIAL

PANELTWISTEC AG: A TIMBER CONSTRUCTION STANDARD WITH TX40 DRIVE

Eurotec’s ETA-approved Paneltwistec AG has been designed to enable fast, safe and high-performance installation...

The Paneltwistec AG TX40 from Eurotec is a proven timber construction screw that has established itself for years as a reliable standard in professional wood construction. All dimensions of this screw are equipped with a uniform TX40 drive, which is particularly advantageous and significantly facilitates the installation process.

Good tip: The specially developed screw tip minimises splitting when screwing into wood

The Paneltwistec is a long-standing standard in the timber field

Flexible and efficient in application

The screw is available with either a flange button head or countersunk head and impresses with its specially developed screw tip, which reduces the driving torque and minimises splitting when screwing into the wood. In addition, milling ribs above the thread ensure easy countersinking into the wood and a particularly secure fixing.

Advantages of the TX40 drive

The TX40 drive makes installation considerably easier: a single tool is sufficient to drive all screws, enabling faster work and reducing the need for bit changes. The drive is a common standard in professional timber construction, especially where high loads must be absorbed. In combination with the flange button head, a larger head diameter is achieved, allowing for higher tightening and head pull­through values.

Versatile application possibilities

The Paneltwistec AG TX40 offers limited corrosion resistance and is suitable for service classes 1 and 2 according to DIN EN 1995 (Eurocode 5). With a diameter of 8.0 mm, it is particularly well­suited as a screw for fastening above­rafter insulation. However, it is not suitable for tanninrich woods.

Material and quality

Manufactured from hardened carbon steel and galvanized blue, the Paneltwistec AG TX40 is free from chromium(VI) oxide and stands out for its high resistance to mechanical stress. In addition, the screw is ETA­approved, confirming its suitability for professional timber construction.

One

drive for the highest demands

With the Paneltwistec AG and its TX40 drive, Eurotec relies on a proven standard that enables fast, safe, and high­performance installation processes. It’s pitched as a must­have for all professionals who value quality, efficiency and compliance with standards in timber construction.

www.eurotec.team

BECAUSE QUALITY IS OUR GREATEST ASSET

Our wood construction screws offer the highest stability and quality. With excellent surface protection, in stainless steel and as partially or fully thread screws – they are the right solution for every application!

A large number of the wood construction screws come with ETA approval.

FASTENER MANUFACTURING

SPECIAL

FROM PEOPLE TO PRODUCTION: POWERING LONG-TERM SUCCESS

Victory Fasteners has a reputation as a reliable fastener manufacturer and distributor, but the company is now stepping up its commercial ambitions. With exports growing, specials becoming a bigger share of the mix and continuous investment in the sales team, the company is navigating a market where price pressures are intense but relationships still make the difference. Torque Magazine sits down with Lee Howell, Sales Director of Victory Fasteners, to learn more about how the company is sharpening its focus on service and growth

ictory Fasteners specialises in various types of fastening products, including nuts, washers, hexagon heads, socket heads, studding and blanks, with services including prototyping, supply chain management and product traceability.

The company’s supply strategy also enables it to simplify customers’ supply chains by consolidating fastener needs with one trusted partner. This approach reduces administrative overhead, streamlines ordering and ensures consistent quality across all projects, giving customers a hassle­free procurement experience.

Business headwinds

Speaking of the business of Victory Fasteners, Howell says the entire fastener manufacturing industry has been facing a “tough” year.

“Over the past twelve months, as conditions have tightened, we’ve seen more customers focusing on price rather than service,” Howell explains. “We’ve been to several exhibitions and made plenty of visits, and it feels like everyone in the industry is in a similar situation. For us, the focus has been on what we can control – ensuring every project runs smoothly and that customers get the support they need.”

Despite these pressures, Victory has still been on a growth trajectory. “When I joined the company, turnover was just under £2 million, it’s been great to be part of an ever­growing team that has helped Victory to grow since then, 2024 saw us surpass the £4.3 million mark,” Howell notes.

Export is also a growing area in the company’s business. Currently, the segment represents around 20% of turnover, compared with just 5% a few years ago. Europe is the natural focus for Victory Fasteners because of logistics, while growth in Norway, the Netherlands, France, Poland and Ireland are notable.

Investment in the sales team

To sustain growth, Victory Fasteners has invested in its sales team, bringing in people with specialist skill sets and experience. The company will continue to do so by having open positions for Sales Executives and Account Managers. The team now has six members, including Export Sales Manager Janusz Wachowski and Technical Sales Executive Clayton Rogers, who brings extensive expertise in exotic materials. Rogers leads the company’s bespoke components and exotic materials business, helping to expand customer offerings.

FASTENER MANUFACTURING

SPECIAL

Howell adds that Rogers’ appointment came in response to rising demand for exotic materials. This investment also allows Victory Fasteners to move away from commodity pricing and deliver products that customers cannot easily source elsewhere.

The sales team adheres to the traditional approach of picking up the phone, speaking directly to customers and building relationships. Although emails have their place, Howell never finds them as effective as communicating over the phone. He also says that when quoting on a job or responding to an enquiry, relying on email follow­ups lacked the impact of a proper conversation, whereas picking up the phone demonstrated commitment and helped build a stronger connection.

Howell joined Victory Fasteners in 2016 and naturally progressed to Sales Director last year, having served as Sales Manager since 2020. With several years of experience at the company, he continues to remain hands­on in daily operations.

“I like to stay closely involved, personally overseeing projects where required. If we need to go an extra mile, even hand­delivering products to make sure they reach their destination on time, then that’s what we’ll do,” he says.

Investment in manufacturing

Not only does Victory Fasteners invest in its sales team, but it also invests in its manufacturing capabilities. Historically, Victory Fasteners was a stock distributor with a small offering of simple parting off and threading on semi­finished blanks,

but a bigger ambition propelled the company to expand with a much broader in­house manufacturing area.

To complement manufacturing, the business grew physically too. Over the years, it has expanded from one unit to now operating from three, including a machining hub and a dedicated stock facility, plus a new purpose­built sales and purchasing office to bring a central hub for the team. These moves helped keep more processes under one roof, giving it greater control and faster turnaround.

Currently, the company operates three CNC lathes, a Trishul milling machine, over 10 manual lathes along with broaching & traceable etching machines. Over the past 10 years, Victory has acquired businesses to enhance its manufacturing capabilities. The most recent acquisition has enabled Victory to take a leading position in drilling operations which has led to some extensive growth in certain sectors of industry.

Victory Fasteners remains committed to supplying highquality fasteners with full traceability and rigorous certification processes. Every product is backed by Mill Test Certificates (MTCs), as well as test certificates to 3.1, 2.2, 2.1 and Certificates of Conformance (C of C), ensuring that each component meets the required specifications and industry standards.

Traceability is a cornerstone of the company’s approach. Every part supplied can be tracked to its origin, with detailed material records maintained so that each batch can be traced back to its source with complete certainty.

Within the last couple of months, Victory Fasteners has also recruited the new Quality Manager, Daniel Gamble. With 30 years of industry experience, he brings a fresh perspective while also easing the burden on leadership, who previously carried much of the QA responsibility.

In addition to this appointment, Victory Fasteners has invested in Keyence’s Image Dimension Measurement System, which rapidly measures dimensions, angles, and tolerances on complex parts, enhancing product quality.

With anti­dumping duties complicating exports of Chineseorigin fasteners, Victory has also taken steps to broaden its supply chain. The firm actively sources alternatives from markets such as Vietnam, Taiwan and throughout Europe, giving customers greater flexibility and options for supply. Victory is also the largest stockholder of European­origin product, finished or pre­finished.

Currently, Victory Fasteners delivers products to over 65 countries worldwide, ensuring compliance with international regulations and seamless distribution.

Pillars of business and growth

Victory Fasteners’ strongest business driver remains the rail sector, supported by its long­standing ties with the automotive industry. The company’s drilling expertise has proved particularly valuable in rail applications. Beyond this, nuclear continues to perform strongly, while motorsport is beginning to pick up again.

Looking ahead, Victory Fasteners’ focus will remain on maintaining and strengthening customer relationships. With market conditions tightening, many customers are seeking cheaper alternatives or cutting back on spending, a trend Victory acknowledges but seeks to counter through service and support.

“Every penny counts for customers right now, and we understand the pressures they face,” Howell notes. “But for us, it’s about being present, visiting clients, ensuring they receive the level of service they have come to expect from us and deserve.”

Ongoing investment is also central to the company’s strategy. Under Managing Director Mike Cooke’s leadership, Victory will continue investing in its operations, whether that means the latest CNC machinery, additional personnel or other resources to support growth. This forward­looking approach ensures the company is not only meeting current demand but also preparing for future opportunities.

www.victoryfasteners.com

Victory Fasteners has invested in its QA lab, installing a new system from Keyence and a new Quality Manager, Daniel Gamble

// Every penny counts for customers right now, and we understand the pressures they face,” Howell notes. “But for us, it’s about being present, visiting clients, ensuring they receive the level of service they have come to expect from us and deserve //

FASTENER MANUFACTURING

SPECIAL

SAVE COSTS WHILE SAFEGUARDING MATERIALS

Spirol

examines the benefits of light duty coiled spring pins and their multiple applications in a white paper…

Spring pins are versatile mechanical fasteners commonly used for hinging, alignment and joining parts. Unlike other interference­fit fasteners, they are designed to be the flexible element of a joint, exerting constant radial tension against the hole wall. This flexibility helps protect the host material from deformation or permanent damage, while also accommodating wider hole tolerances and reducing manufacturing costs.

There are two main types of spring pins: slotted spring pins, recognised by their C­shaped cross section, and coiled spring pins, which feature a 2¼­coil cross section. Coiled spring pins are generally the more adaptable option, made from multiple wraps of thinner material and free from the slot that limits flexibility in slotted designs.

Three duty options

Coiled spring pins are manufactured in three duty levels: light, standard and heavy. These variations give designers the flexibility to balance strength, diameter and resilience for different applications. While all share the same 2¼­coil design, the key difference lies in the thickness of the raw material, which determines their overall strength and flexibility.

The choice of duty largely depends on the host material and the function of the pin. Light duty is best suited for plastics, soft metal castings such as zinc and aluminium, and brittle materials such as ceramics. Standard duty is commonly used in mild steels, cast iron and non­ferrous alloys, while heavy duty pins are designed for hardened steels or assemblies exposed to high shock and vibration.

Because overly stiff pins can damage fragile holes, light duty pins are often the most versatile option. They can even be used across all host materials in low­force applications, such as simple alignment tasks, making them a practical solution in a wide range of assemblies.

A light duty coiled pin retains the plastic ring to the metal rod of an automotive dip stick

Advantages of using light duty coiled spring pins

Thanks to their flexibility, light duty pins require significantly less insertion force: up to 50% less than standard duty pins and 75% less than heavy duty or slotted pins. This makes manual installation easier and less physically demanding for assembly workers, improving ergonomics and workplace safety. Additionally, their excellent shear strength­to­insertion force ratio means that, when diameter is not limited, a larger light duty pin can provide the same strength as a smaller standard or heavy duty pin while being easier to fit.

The flexibility of light duty pins reduces radial pressure on the host component, lowering the risk of damage, especially in soft or brittle materials. They are ideal for applications where the joint needs to remain serviceable, as they exert less stress on the hole compared to other pin types.

Light duty coiled spring pins in an aluminium automotive valve body assembly

SPIROL’s Series 550 Cosmetic Coiled Pins deliver a durable, high-quality friction hinge that lasts for the life of the assembly

For hand­operated or swivel­point hinges, light duty pins offer low shear resistance while providing smooth, high­quality movement. They are particularly effective in friction hinges, ensuring consistent performance over the life of the assembly. Cosmetic cases often use extra light duty pins with 1½ coils, such as SPIROL’s Series 550, to deliver precise and durable hinge action.

Light duty pins use less material, making them cheaper per piece and ensuring cost efficiency. The lower insertion force also allows for simpler, less expensive installation equipment. Compared to rigid solid pins, they offer overall assembly savings, including reduced material, equipment and host hole preparation costs.

Where light duty coiled pins shine

Light duty coiled pins are ideal for alignment tasks, where the pin mainly positions two components during assembly and bears little to no shear load. Compared to precision ground solid dowels, they require looser hole tolerances and are much easier and cheaper to install. Among coiled pin options, light duty maximises these advantages, making it the preferred choice for most alignment applications.

Lastly, light duty pins exert the least radial pressure on host materials, reducing the risk of damage even under shear loads. This makes them perfect for soft or brittle materials or where the joint must remain serviceable. Their flexibility also simplifies assembly and lowers installation costs.

www.spirol.com

Coiled spring pins are available in heavy, standard and light duty

MANUFACTURING

SPECIAL

FASTENING INNOVATION ON DISPLAY

Optimas will attend the Advanced Engineering 2025 exhibition this October to showcase its capabilities in engineered fastening solutions…

As a global manufacturer and distributor of fasteners, Cclass components and engineered parts, Optimas has a wealth of experience in supporting OEMs with bespoke technical and operational solutions to help them find greater value in their fastener usage.

From 29­30 October, Optimas experts will be on stand H190 at the Advanced Engineering 2025 exhibition in Birmingham, explaining how they can minimise risk to their supply chain, reduce total cost of ownership and demonstrate how bespoke engineering solutions can uncover cost savings and reveal product improvements.

Optimas will also hold a seminar at the Automotive Forum on the first day at 13:15 to discuss how incorporating bespoke fastening solutions for electric vehicle (EV) battery packs can improve performance, assembly efficiency and operating financials. Engineered fastening solutions can be pivotal for improving products and unlocking efficiencies across many industries. Below are five key benefits that these solutions are supporting EV battery pack assembly:

1. Enhanced structural integrity

Engineered fasteners that incorporate high­strength materials and vibration­resistant locking features ensure the parts maintain clamp load under crash forces, high­frequency motor vibrations and thermal stress cycles. Bespoke variants of highstrength bolts with serrated flanges or hardened studs with prevailing torque nuts or encapsulated local coating patches could be selected to prevent loosening under sustained vibration. In addition, tailored fastening solutions have been developed for critical applications such as busbar joints, ensuring secure connections and reliable electrical performance.

These solutions help ensure the overall battery pack remains secure and the vehicle’s safety system remains uncompromised.

2. Optimising for lightweighting

Reducing weight is a direct way to improve EV range and efficiency. Custom fasteners for battery packs are increasingly made from 6000­series and 7000­series aluminium to cut weight without compromising tensile strength. Furthermore, downsizing fastener geometries while leveraging higherstrength materials allow further weight reduction without loss of performance. Using these bespoke parts supports energy efficiency targets and enables OEMs to meet aggressive vehicle weight goals without sacrificing durability.

3. Ensuring environmental protection

Battery packs must be sealed against water, dust and road contaminants to protect sensitive cells and electronics, whilst also preventing byproducts of chemical reactions from escaping the pack and polluting the environment. Fasteners can be integrated with moulded silicone or EPDM O­rings under the head to achieve IP67, the required dust protection and water resistance standards. Utilising these bespoke solutions reduces the risk of leaks over the vehicle’s lifetime, a crucial aspect of EV battery pack performance.

Engineered fasteners made from high-strength materials with vibration-resistant locking features help maintain clamp load under crash forces, high-frequency motor vibrations and thermal stress cycles

4. Streamline manufacturing

Bespoke fasteners for EV battery pack assembly are designed to perform multiple functions at once, reducing part count and simplifying installation. For example, a captive washer flange bolt can help speed up assembly compared with standard components, as it can align the part, prevent rotation and lock in place. Self­aligning studs with pilot points are also useful as they guide heavy pack assemblies into position during automated assembly. By combining washers, locking mechanisms, and alignment features into a single component, OEMs can cut assembly time, reduce errors and improve throughput. These efficiencies translate directly into lower production costs and faster time­to­market.

5. Supporting sustainability and serviceability

As EV batteries reach the end of their service life, the ability to disassemble them efficiently becomes critical for recycling and reuse. Bespoke fastening solutions can incorporate designs that allow for the quick removal of batteries that prevent damage to surrounding components. Reversible thread­locking compounds enable bolts to be reused rather than scrapped. By making it easier to replace modules, these solutions supports a circular economy but also helps manufacturers meet evolving sustainability regulations.

Optimas’ onsite team at Advanced Engineering will also showcase the company’s innovative BOM management and design engineering tool, OptiSpec®. OptiSpec® is a cloud­based application that helps users prevent part proliferation, encourage part rationalisation and implement rapid prototyping. In addition to providing technical support, Optimas will demonstrate how to minimise supply chain risk through global sourcing leverage and localised support and explain how to reduce the total cost of ownership across fastener and C­class component usage.

www.optimas.com

MANUFACTURING

MTA PARTNERS WITH THE QUORUM PRINCIPLE IN MANUFACTURING COLLABORATION

Strategic partnership aims to address the unique challenges facing UK manufacturing sector through an enhanced collaboration approach…

The UK Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA) and The Quorum Principle have announced a strategic partnership designed to provide MTA members with enhanced collaborative capabilities and deliver competitive edge in the global marketplace.

The partnership comes at a critical time for UK manufacturing, which contributes £224 billion to gross value added (GVA), supports 2.6 million jobs, and accounts for 43% of the UK’s R&D investment and nearly half of all UK exports. Despite this, however, the sector faces challenges in maintaining global competitiveness.

The Quorum Principle seeks to improve manufacturing performance through a dual approach, which improves collaboration between manufacturers and their key solution providers by breaking down silos within manufacturers, and driving more collaborative working among solution providers.

Under the partnership agreement, MTA members will gain access to The Quorum Principle’s innovative training and consultancy solutions that create competitive advantage through enhanced collaborative capabilities.

James Selka, DL, CEO of the Manufacturing Technologies Association, says: “Manufacturing in the UK faces a unique set of challenges to its ability to compete internationally and remain profitable.

“The Quorum Principle's approach to breaking down internal silos and enabling better collaboration echoes the MTA’s belief in the power of collaborative growth, and our goal of fostering a dynamic, competitive, and sustainable UK manufacturing sector.

“Our members design, manufacture, and supply the advanced machinery and equipment that enable modern manufacturing, and this partnership more effectively equips them to seize emerging opportunities and to remove barriers to growth.”

John Robinson, Founder and CEO of The Quorum Principle, says: “It’s now clear that the current business model in global manufacturing is no longer fit for purpose, and at the root of this systemic problem is how organisations work together, both internally and with their solution providers.

“While many global Industry 4.0 initiatives focus on technical interoperability, The Quorum Principle focuses instead on organisational interoperability, which is key to breaking the current paradigm and unlocking manufacturing’s potential.

“Our partnership with the MTA recognises that UK manufacturing can gain a competitive edge on the global stage by adopting a qualitatively different approach to collaboration to that being taken elsewhere around the world.”

Robinson’s background includes senior roles at Kearney, SAP, EY, Atos, AVEVA, and Schneider Electric, together with more than a decade in manufacturing operations. This diverse experience enabled him to identify the collaborative approach that forms the foundation of The Quorum Principle in 2020.

Through the partnership, MTA members benefit from enhanced collaborative capabilities, while the MTA strengthens its commitment to its members by increasing their access to cutting­edge technologies and sustainable practices.

www.thequorumprinciple.com

Left: James Selka, CEO of the Manufacturing Technologies Association,
Right: John Robinson, Founder and CEO of The Quorum Principle

Operating 50 advanced machines across three dedicated manufacturing sites.

Manufacturing standard fasteners and bespoke components in all material grades that are often not available “off the shelf”.

“Doing what we say, when we say”.

Distribution Centre Unit 2

Stour

Lye

FRESH LOOK, FRESH CHAPTER

After entering a new era by joining the Sinto Group last year, Sinto AGTOS GmbH unveiled a new website with a strong focus on content…

Wheel blast machine specialist Sinto AGTOS GmbH has launched a new website, marking another step forward since the company became part of Japanese foundry equipment manufacturer Sinto Group last year.

Built on a modern content management system, the new site reflects high design standards with a streamlined structure that is intuitive to use and fully optimised for mobile devices. Sinto AGTOS also places strong emphasis on communication, offering visitors a variety of ways to get in touch.

Content is a key focus, with clear explanations of machines and processes, alongside insights into technology, sustainability and the people behind the business. A dedicated guide introduces newcomers to blasting technol­

ogy, helping them make informed investment decisions.

The website will continue to evolve with new features as blasting technology develops further.

Founded more than 20 years ago by a team of industry specialists, AGTOS has grown steadily since entering the market in 2001. After more than two decades of consistent growth, AGTOS entered a new chapter late last year as the company’s shareholders transferred their shares to the Sinto Group. The move was aimed at securing AGTOS’ long­term development under the umbrella of one of the world’s leading foundry equipment manufacturers.

As part of the transition, AGTOS was renamed Sinto AGTOS GmbH, emphasising the company’s new affiliation with the group. Today, the company employs 160 people, operates from a production area of 8,200 m² and supplies customers in over 60 countries.

www.agtos.com

MANUFACTURING

Güde GmbH has received HPQ certification from Deutsche Bahn – a significant landmark in the company's history…

Plettenberg’s Güde GmbH has reached an important milestone by successfully achieving HPQ certification by Deutsche Bahn. HPQ (‘manufacturer­related product qualification’) is one of the highest quality requirements in the railway sector and a prerequisite for the supply of safety­relevant components. By obtaining this certification, Güde is demonstrating its expertise, precision and reliability in the strictly regulated railway sector. Since its foundation in 1948, Güde has been an established manufacturer of screw and shaft locking devices. Over the decades, the family­owned company has built up an excellent reputation as a reliable partner for high­quality locking elements. The HPQ certification now represents the logical continuation of this success story and underlines the

company's high technical and organisational performance, it says.

By taking the step of expanding into the railway segment, Güde is responding to the growing demand for safety­critical components in the mobility and infrastructure sectors. Inclusion in the circle of suppliers qualified by Deutsche Bahn opens up new business areas for the company and at the same time strengthens its competitive position at home and abroad. The long­established company is therefore setting an example for innovation, quality and sustainability, it says.

“For us, HPQ certification is far more than just formal proof – it is confirmation of our understanding of quality and our future orientation,” explains Lutz Güde, Managing Director of Güde.

www.guede.net

PGB-POLSKA: GROWTH THROUGH INNOVATION AND MARKET EXPANSION

pgb-Polska General Manager Krzysztof Biskup talks supply chains, investments, trends and reshoring…

Krzysztof Biskup, pgb-Polska General Manager

Can you take us through some of the latest key developments at pgb-Polska?

Over the past years, pgb­Polska has made significant strides in automation, product innovation and sustainability, ensuring its position as one of the leading players in the European fastening market. New investments in automatic packing systems, product development and renewable energy have strengthened the company’s production efficiency and reduced its environmental footprint.

However, like the entire manufacturing sector, pgb­Polska is not immune to external challenges. Rising labour costs and increasing workforce shortages are pressing issues in Poland and across Europe. Despite these hurdles, the company has managed to adapt successfully by accelerating automation, optimising workflows and continuing to invest in its people.

The staffing challenges are real, but we see them as an opportunity to become even more efficient and forward­looking. Our focus on innovation, automation and synergies within the group allows us to remain resilient and competitive.

In terms of market strategy, pgb­Polska is actively expanding its international presence. While Europe remains the

company’s core business region, there is a strong push into new markets in the Middle East, Central Asia and North Africa. The company’s private­label packaging service has proven to be a powerful tool for building strong, localised relationships with clients in these regions.

The company continues to scale up its production capacity, ensuring that it can meet both existing and future demand. Investments in new machinery, laboratory facilities and sustainability initiatives reinforce its long­term growth path.

Despite the turbulence of the broader economic and geopolitical landscape, pgbPolska is proving its ability to adapt, evolve and grow. With a focus on innovation, efficiency and new market expansion, the company is well­positioned to turn challenges into opportunities and further strengthen its role as a trusted partner in the fastening industry.

What investments has your company made in recent years? What were the reasons behind them and what differences have they made?

Our commitment to progress has seen substantial investments in both infrastructure and technology. We have enhanced our production capabilities by acquiring several new machines and expanding the central material supply system, which ensures efficiency at every step. We are currently in the process of launching another automatic packaging line, designed for packaging larger sized items – such as our nylon frame anchors.

Additionally, we have embraced sustainability, installing energy measurement systems and photovoltaic panels to lower our carbon footprint, with further expansions planned. On the product side, we've introduced a variety of innovative fixings, such as insulation plugs with long expansion zones, specialised anchors for aerated concrete and sandwich panel screws and under the Hapax brand a new line of C4 coated screws. These invest­

The SMART brand has been in the market for years and is fully certified and compliant with industry standards

and new items are being introduced to the offer – all based on the needs of the market and our customers.

The company is currently implementing a new product – a plastic screw for anchoring foundation elements in the ground. It complements the product line offered under the Hapax brand – specialised fasteners and screws for hardwood and the assembly and construction of terraces.

How important are investments and innovation to you as a business?

ments not only streamline our operations but also improve our product offering, ensuring we remain competitive in a growing market, while catering to both current and future customer demands. Currently, the company is focusing on investing in a new laboratory, constant and well­organised quality control combined with proven sources of supply of products and materials for production is our priority at present.

Can you take us through what the company offers customers – what are the key factors that enable you to stand out from competitors?

We take pride in offering one of the most comprehensive ranges of plastic and metal fixings on the market, designed to meet the needs of diverse industries, from construction to furniture manufacturing. We have been promoting and offering our own products for years under the SMART brand, which has proven to be a proven range of products for our customers.

Every product is meticulously crafted using the latest technology, fully certified, and compliant with all industry standards. Quality isn’t just a value for us – it’s the backbone of everything we do. But what really sets us apart is our holistic approach to customer service. In addition to the SMART brand, we also offer a full range of wood screws, including construction and terrace screws known on the market from the PFS and HAPAX brands. But that's not all – the offer also includes self­drilling screws, sandwich panel screws and metric fasteners. From prompt delivery and a complete product portfolio to thoughtfully designed packaging and robust technical support, we ensure that our clients receive an experience that goes beyond the product itself.

Besides the product we also can offer digital connections and online ordering through our webshop or by means of EDI.

What are the types of products your company can manufacture?

While our primary expertise lies in producing top­tier plastic components, we also have capabilities for metal production, thanks to close partnerships with specialised firms. Quality is something we take extremely seriously, guaranteed through rigorous certifications and regular audits of our factory production processes. Our product portfolio is continually evolving, driven by market demand and a dedication to innovation. We ensure that every new addition not only meets but exceeds industry expectations in terms of performance and safety. SMART brand products are constantly being developed

Investment and innovation are the cornerstones of our business philosophy. By continually investing in the latest technologies, we stay ahead of the curve, enabling us to lower production costs while boosting efficiency and productivity. This allows us to introduce cutting­edge solutions that cater to the ever­changing needs of our customers, ensuring that we deliver both quality and value in every product.

What additional services is your company able to supply customers? How is your company able to work with customers to find fastening solutions?

Our service offering extends far beyond product supply. We provide a bespoke packaging service that allows clients to customise boxes with their own branding. This personalised approach not only meets practical needs but also adds significant value by aligning packaging with our clients’ brand identities, creating a fully tailored experience. Despite having large warehouses of our own, a great advantage of our company is the ability to supply and replenish deliveries to customers also from the warehouses of our mother company in Belgium. We strive to strengthen our partnerships with our partners, always working together. Offering a proven, certified product is a guarantee of future business success. As a growing group of companies, pgb has a very broad market offering and strong, expansive distribution channels. However, our Belgian management board is constantly working and focusing on even broader market expansion.

How has your company approached the topic of sustainability?

Sustainability is at the heart of our operational strategy. We've made notable strides in reducing our environmental footprint, particularly through the installation of photovoltaic panels, which help reduce energy consumption. Heat from production machines is reused for the heating of our building in the winter, our production is nearly a closed circle with no waste. Moreover, we are continuously exploring additional ways to enhance our eco­friendly initiatives, ensuring that our

FASTENER MANUFACTURING

business growth aligns with our commitment to responsible environmental stewardship.

We continue the process for an EPD on our plastic anchors, which will provide transparency about our product’s environmental impact, and supporting our customers in complying with regulations and certifications. This is also our commitment to ensure a long­term partnership with our customers.

THE MARKET & SUPPLY CHAIN

What are the key markets for your company geographically?

We have a global outlook but place particular emphasis on the European market, where the majority of our business is concentrated. As noted earlier, our reach extends far beyond, with strong sales activity in the Middle East, Central Asia and North Africa. Our ability to offer private, customised packaging has further bolstered our presence in these markets, allowing us to respond to local needs with greater agility and bespoke solutions.

What are the current challenges within these key markets and where do you see opportunities?

The key challenges we face include ensuring our packaging and labelling are universally adaptable, maintaining certification standards, and continuing to improve lead times and product range completeness. However, these challenges also present opportunities – by refining these aspects, we strengthen our market position and enhance the value we offer our clients.

What have been the biggest challenges in your domestic market in the last year? How have you managed the situation?

Like many in the industry, we've faced considerable difficulties in the domestic market due to the pandemic and the ongoing geopolitical instability caused by the war in Ukraine. These factors have created a turbulent economic environment, but through resilience and adaptability, we’ve managed to navigate these challenges and continue serving our clients effectively.

How do you see your role in the supply chain changing and how will you rise to the challenge?

Speed and efficiency are critical in today’s supply chain landscape. The need to shorten delivery times and streamline the supply chain is a challenge that all suppliers must meet. We’re focusing on optimising these areas to ensure we continue delivering excellent service while staying ahead of market demands.

Regardless of whether the product is offered under our own brand or specially customised for the client, it must be delivered quickly, ready for possible further distribution, and with all required documents and certificates. Our company guarantees this.

What general trends do you see for the fastener manufacturing in the future? How does your company plan to take advantage of these trends and opportunities?

As the industry moves forward, we foresee an increasing focus on expanding European production. Many companies, ourselves included, are exploring ways to boost their sourcing from within Europe, and in some cases, establishing new production lines here. This shift will strengthen the region’s manufacturing capabilities and reduce reliance on external markets, positioning us well for the future.

The growth of automation is also a big issue surrounding the manufacturing industry – how does automation play a part in your business and how do you see this developing in the future?

Automation is a key driver of our future growth strategy. It plays an essential role in improving operational efficiency and reducing costs. As we look ahead, we expect automation to become even more integral to our processes, enabling us to stay competitive and continue delivering value to our clients.

www.pgb-polska.com

FASTENER MANUFACTURING SPECIAL

SETTING HIGHER STANDARDS

Smith Bullough is investing in its manufacturing capabilities and the next generation as it plans to maintain its position in the industry…

For Smith Bullough, the phrase “Non­Standard is Our Standard” is more than a just company slogan, it defines the business’ core manufacturing philosophy. As a British producer of special nuts and bolts, the company is recognised for delivering high­quality fasteners in both small and large quantities, ranging from commercial­grade parts to highly specialised components with Lloyd’s Register approval.

The production process begins with forging, considered the heartbeat of fastener manufacturing. Smith Bullough operates three forging lines to upset heads from round bar stock, a method that ensures minimal waste and maximum efficiency. For precision­critical applications, forged blanks are transferred to CNC turning lathes or machining centres, where they are finished to exacting tolerances.

Moreover, the company’s recent investment in an additional CNC vertical milling machine has further expanded the company’s capabilities, allowing for the manufacture of complex components with greater speed and precision. This upgrade underscores Smith Bullough’s commitment to “continuous improvement and to staying ahead of evolving industry requirements”.

The company is also investing in people, recently welcoming two new apprentices onto the shop floor. Training the next generation of engineers is essential for safeguarding the future of British manufacturing, ensuring that technical expertise and craftsmanship are sustained for future years.

Smith Bullough works with a broad range of materials, including carbon and alloy steels, stainless grades, super duplex, nickel alloys, Monel and titanium. Whether producing Grade 4.6 or 14.9, the company is equipped to meet diverse and demanding specifications.

Threading expertise is another area of strength, with both cut and rolled threads available depending on application requirements. Secondary operations such as crossdrilling, through heads or shanks, are routinely carried out. Standard drilling starts at 2mm, with smaller diameters available on request. One example is a 5mm hole drilled through an M60 shank, a clear demonstration of the company’s technical capability.

Recognising that the integrity of any bolted joint depends on precise manufacturing and clear communication, Smith Bullough works closely with fastener distributors and end­user technical teams to interpret drawings and ensure every requirement is executed correctly.

The company’s fasteners are used across different sectors, including automotive, construction, renewable energy, military, marine and rail.

www.smithbullough.com

Smith Bullough specialises in forged, hard-tosource special bolts, including complex CNCmachined designs

SPECIAL

PLASTIC FASTENERS FOR MODERN INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS

Germany

based BÄCKER GmbH is a manufacturer of quality plastic fastening solutions for

a variety of industries with a specialisation in high-performance plastics...

Since its foundation in 1977, BÄCKER GmbH & Co. KG, headquartered in Erndtebrück (North Rhine­Westphalia), has established itself as a competent manufacturer of high­quality plastic fastening solutions. Today, the medium­sized family business is one of the leading producers of standard plastic parts and fasteners for industrial applications – with a clear specialisation in fasteners made of highperformance plastics.

Product range for specialist retailers and industrial OEMs

The product portfolio includes a wide selection of fasteners, including DIN screws, nuts, washers, spacers and protective caps made of plastic. The range is complemented by ergonomic operating elements such as clamping levers, locking pins, handles and levelling feet, which are also made of plastic. Components made of materials such as PA6, PP, PVDF, PEEK or glass fibre­reinforced compounds are particularly in demand. These impress with their high temperature and chemical resistance, low weight and excellent insulation properties.

With over 5,000 catalogue items and customised special solutions, BÄCKER primarily supplies technical wholesalers –in particular screw and fastener dealers in Germany and other European countries. Its long­standing trading partners include leading industry giants.

Versatile applications in modern industry

BÄCKER plastic fasteners are used in numerous industries, including the electronics industry, switch cabinet construction, chemical process engineering, mechanical and plant engineering, medical technology, lightweight construction, model making and the automotive sector. Plastic solutions are indispensable today wherever low weight, corrosion protection, electrical insulation or specific material combinations are crucial.

Quality, sustainability and manufacturing expertise

BÄCKER develops and manufactures exclusively in Germany at its Erndtebrück site. The company continuously invests in modern injection moulding technology, quality assurance and material development. In addition to series production, it also creates customised solutions for customers – from CADsupported design and rapid prototyping to series production.

With its clear specialisation, technical expertise and highquality standards, BÄCKER has established itself as a reliable supplier and development partner in the fastening industry for over four decades.

www.baecker.eu

BÄCKER develops and manufactures exclusively in Germany at its Erndtebrück site

SPECIAL

INSIDE ÇETIN CIVATA’S MANUFACTURING PROCESS

As one of Türkiye’s major fastener manufacturers, Çetin Civata has the capability, expertise and facilities to produce and supply a wide range of cold-formed fasteners. Here, the firm explains its fully integrated manufacturing process…

Founded in Istanbul in 1976, Çetin Cıvata operates a fully integrated production facility with a monthly capacity of 5,000 tons. With more than 350 employees, the company supplies a wide range of cold­formed fasteners including bolts, screws, nuts and engineered parts in sizes from M3 to M27 and lengths up to 300 millimetres. Its products serve key industries such as automotive OEMs and suppliers, white goods manufacturers, renewable energy and construction. Certified under ISO 9001, IATF 16949, ISO 14001, and ISO 50001, Çetin Cıvata consistently meets international quality and environmental standards. Its vertical integration, in­house tooling and R&D capabilities allow tight quality control and shorter lead times for new projects, reinforcing its reputation as both a mass producer and a solution partner.

The production journey begins with high­grade steel wire coils. The coils are inspected, cleaned in acid baths to remove surface scale and impurities, then coated with zinc phosphate. This porous coating reduces friction in subsequent drawing operations, extends the life of tungsten carbide dies, and improves the final surface quality of the wire. Once prepared, the coils are drawn through carbide dies to achieve precise diameters ranging from 2 to 30 millimetres, with tolerances as tight as ±0.01 millimetre. When large reductions are required, annealing furnaces are used between passes to restore ductility. This combination of drawing and annealing ensures uniform, high­quality wire stock for the forging lines.

In Çetin Cıvata’s Cold forming production, wire is cut into blanks and shaped on either two­station headers or progressive multi­station formers with up to six dies, depending on part complexity. Standard bolts and screws are shaped in one or two blows, while more intricate fasteners are formed through several stages, producing near­net­shape components with minimal machining. Thread rolling follows forging, using flat­die machines equipped with hardened tool steel dies. By displacing material rather than cutting it, this chipless process delivers strong, accurate threads with smooth surfaces and added work­hardening that improves fatigue resistance. After forming, fasteners undergo heat treatment. Five continuous furnace lines provide quenching and tempering to produce high­strength bolts. Carburizing processes are also applied where a hardened surface combined with a tough core is required. Each batch is tested for hardness, tensile strength, and microstructure to ensure compliance with international standards. Only parts that meet the specifications are approved to proceed further.

Surface treatment is also available within the company’s integrated facility. Coatings include electroplated zinc, alkaline and acidic zinc baths, zinc­nickel alloy layers, and advanced zinc flake systems. These coatings are supported by passivation and sealing treatments to maximise corrosion resistance and optimise friction coefficients. Baking processes are carried out where necessary to eliminate the risk of hydrogen embrittlement. By managing all coating processes in­house, the

From the first coil of wire to the final packaged fastener, Çetin Cıvata controls each stage of production

company ensures consistency, rapid turnaround and flexibility for standard and customised orders.

Every part then passes through sorting and quality inspection. High­speed automated machines equipped with cameras, lasers, and eddy­current sensors check each fastener for dimensional accuracy, surface defects, and coating quality. This full inspection ensures that only flawless parts reach customers, aligning with the zero­defect expectations of industries. The company’s laboratory supports these checks with spectrometer analysis, hardness and tensile testing, salt spray corrosion testing, and friction measurements.

Once inspected and approved, fasteners are packaged on automated lines. Packaging is tailored to customer requirements, with box sizes, labelling and palletisation designed to ensure safe transport and easy traceability. Automated weighing and counting systems provide accurate quantities, while pallet wrapping secures the load for logistics. Çetin Cıvata is able to meet just­in­time schedules and maintain buffer stocks, ensuring uninterrupted delivery to global clients.

In addition to its strong production capacity, Çetin Cıvata invests continuously in innovation and sustainability. Its tooling department designs and manufactures forging dies and special equipment, enabling rapid prototyping of new designs and quick adaptation to customer­specific requirements. Collaboration with clients during development is supported by structured processes such as APQP and PPAP, which ensure smooth and reliable industrialisation of new parts. On the environmental side, the company implements energy efficiency and waste recycling programmes, maintains ISO 14001 and ISO 50001 certifications and reports on its carbon footprint in line with the EU CBAM requirements.

From the first coil of wire to the final packaged fastener, Çetin Cıvata controls every stage of production under one roof. This integration allows the company to deliver consistent quality, high efficiency, and reliable service to customers across the globe.

www.cetin.com.tr

FASTENER MANUFACTURING

THREADED FOR PERFORMANCE

Since resuming operations in 2023, Bomet UK serves wholesalers in the fastener sector, as well as the mechanical, electrical and ventilation industries…

After closing its production facility in Willenhall in 2007, Bomet UK was reactivated in 2023, marking the launch of Bomet UK 2.0. The company is now operating exclusively as a wholesale business. Production of DIN976­1 threaded rods continues primarily at its parent company Bomet Europe NV, formerly Bodegraven Metaal NV, as of May 2025.

From Belgium, full truckloads are shipped to the company’s Birmingham warehouse, either alongside or independent of UK customer orders. All imports are managed entirely by Bomet UK, enabling customers to source threaded rods from a UK­based supplier without extra costs or administrative hassle.

Bomet UK mainly serves wholesalers in the fastener sector, as well as the mechanical, electrical and ventilation industries. These sectors prefer high­quality products (60° top angle) and avoid low­cost, inferior threaded rods, which carry significant risk. Bomet UK stocks 4.8 zinc­plated threaded rods in sizes M6–M24 in Birmingham, with hot­dip galvanised rods of European origin also available.

Bomet UK operates exclusively as a wholesale business

Bomet UK also provides consignment stock, allowing customers to purchase on a call­off basis. Short lengths are available, and with regular shipments to Birmingham, the company can ensure fast delivery times. For short lead times combined with 100% quality assurance, Bomet UK is the ideal partner.

In today’s geopolitical climate, sourcing from a reliable local supplier is increasingly important. Looking ahead, the UK will implement CBAM in 2027, and both Bomet Europe and Bomet UK are already working to minimise its CO₂ footprint.

Send your enquiries to Sales.UK@bomet.com

www.bomet.com

PLASTIC FASTENERS BUILT FOR VEHICLES

Arma’s plastic fasteners are engineered to meet the stringent quality and safety standards set by international automotive leaders, serving customers from Europe and Asia…

Arma Bağlantı Sistemleri A.Ş. has established itself as a trusted supplier of high­quality fastening solutions, serving customers in more than 40 countries. With a reputation built on precision engineering and innovation, the company continues to expand its global presence, driven by the success of its plastic fastener product group particularly within the automotive sector.

In recent years, Arma’s plastic fasteners have become increasingly prominent in OEM and Tier­1 automotive projects. Designed to deliver consistent reliability and performance, these components meet the rigorous quality and safety standards demanded by international automotive leaders.

The company’s products deliver lightweight, cost­effective and corrosion­resistant fastening solutions that are vital to both interior and exterior applications.

Their versatility makes them ideal for vehicle assembly, with uses ranging from interior trim panels, doors, dashboards and pillars to bumper and fender/wing attachments, underbody shields, engine covers, cable and wire harness management, headliner and roof lining installations, seat and carpet fixing, as well as lighting and sensor mounting. This adaptability not only improves assembly efficiency but also ensures long­term durability.

Quality is underscored by certifications including IATF 16949, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and ISO 27001. Continuous investment in advanced production technologies and a strong R&D framework enables the company to meet growing international demand while delivering customised solutions tailored to specific client requirements.

Arma’s expanding footprint reflects the trust it has earned from partners across Europe and Asia, with applications extending beyond automotive into wider industrial systems. As the industry accelerates its shift toward lighter and more sustainable materials, the company provides fastening solutions that combine dependability with innovation.

Looking ahead, the company is committed to further strengthening its plastic fastener portfolio and remains open to new collaborations and investments aimed at enhancing production capacity, advancing technology and deepening its global reach.

www.armafixing.com.tr

Customized project lengths with short delivery times

www.bomet.com European manufacturer N°1 of threaded rods DIN976-1

PRICES, PEOPLE & CBAM: APEX LAYS OUT ITS VISION FOR THE INDUSTRY

Writing for Torque Magazine, Apex Stainless Fasteners

MD Steve Forbes provides his perspective on industry trends including how CBAM is impacting on metals prices, behind the scenes at Apex and how people are at the top of the agenda for 2026…

The wider economy is facing a lot of challenges, and I think everybody in the industry would tell you that the market is fairly flat. From my perspective, as someone who is just 100 days into this role, I can see that market conditions aren’t great, but when speaking with our customers, certainly the ones that we’ve been trading with for a long time, things are pretty stable. They’ve been through bad economic situations before, and they’ve done all right. It’s a fairly solid industry in that sense.

However, as we look to 2026, there are many challenges on the horizon. How this sector navigates them will be key to its growth and its ability to get back to its ‘pre­Covid water level’ But I do believe that Apex, due to its size and legacy, has what it takes to weather the storm and help our customers in the process. Not every business has the capability to invest at the level we can, especially in the market conditions that we’re living in just now, but we feel that these investments are vital to help and support our customers and the market as a whole.

Apex’s stock profile & investment

The first challenge for us is how we can help our customers manage their inventory and stock so that they are able to best service the evolving demands of their customers. Breadth of stock and price remain key drivers but many of our customers aren’t able to cost effectively hold that level of stock.

Thanks to our size, legacy and investment in our new super site in the Midlands we can. We have invested quite heavily in our stock profile, and we are carrying plenty of running stock. Around 500 items in our range are ‘high runners’ so having that facility has enabled us to put a lot more stock on the shelf, which is going to help our customers a great deal. And our location also means we are perfectly placed to get the stock out the next day.

Ease of ordering is also key to helping our customers service fast turnaround orders. The web shop is bedding in, and we are tweaking it after we opened it to a select group of customers. We’ve done a lot of learning and I think we’ve got some really good foundations to build this into something our customers truly value.

In the future, we want to be able to drive these benefits across all of the geographical markets we support. There is definitely an export market out there that can really benefit from Apex’s size and scale so that is something we will focus on in the future.

// Not every business has the capability to invest at the level we can, especially in the market conditions that we’re living in just now, but we feel that these investments are vital to help and support our customers and the market as a whole //

The CBAM impact on metals prices

Based on what I’ve seen and heard from our customers, outside of stock availability, CBAM will be one of the biggest challenges our customers will face in the next 12 months. There has been a fair amount of uncertainty, but it feels like things are starting to crystalise more. Obviously, that’s moving faster in Europe and what we can see in the market is that many of our European competitors are buying forward to negate the short­term impact. So, there’s a spike in purchasing going on and this is having an impact on costs and the prices we can pass on to our customers. But, broadly speaking, metals prices are starting to go back up anyway. I think last week [at time of writing], we saw it going up around 6­10%, after being very low for a very long time.

5.3x12 - 13.0x29

// One of the most important factors impacting Apex’s future growth and success is our ability to focus and invest in what we have been historically very good at – which is distribution //

Apex has invested heavily in its stock profile, and is carrying plenty of running stock

Apex Stainless Fasteners’ new super site Wednesbury in the West Midlands
// Many of our employees have been at Apex more than 20 years. The level of knowledge and insight that this brings to the business is of immense value to us and our customers //

For Apex, as we straddle the UK and Europe, we are keeping an eye out on how this evolves and how we can best support our customers through this. The UK is a little bit behind on CBAM and we’re still figuring out what that’s going to be, but we are keeping a very close eye on how this plays out. We’ve weathered the storm so far and we have the scale and the ability to do it. We’ve been fiscally astute, and we’ve been careful where we invest in both the business and in the stock we hold.

Investing in our network and our people will be key to success Looking ahead, outside of the immediate supply and demand needs and the impact of CBAM, one of the most important factors impacting Apex’s future growth and success is our ability to focus and invest in what we have been historically very good at – which is distribution. Now that we have the super site in Wednesbury and we are building a team of experts in global distribution, we are perfectly positioned to grow and expand our distribution footprint in the short and long term.

It’s also important that we continue to invest in what has always made Apex so great and that is our people. I’ve been incredibly lucky, and it was one of the nicest surprises for me, that the quality of the team that I’ve inherited is market leading.

The team at Apex is genuinely a great bunch of very dedicated and passionate people. Many of our employees have been at Apex more than 20 years. The level of knowledge and insight that this brings to the business is of immense value to us and our customers. We really do value our staff, and we want to ensure that they feel valued too. Fortunately. there’s a really good level of energy around the business right now and we’re looking forward to driving and delivering against the Apex vision in the next 12 months.

www.apexstainless.com

BRALO PT PNEUMATIC RIVETERS:

BUILT FOR THE INDUSTRY, DESIGNED TO ENDURE

BRALO’s new generation of tools promise to combine durability, speed and precision engineering to meet the toughest industrial demands…

BRALO’s new PT range of pneumatic riveters are set to raising the bar in industrial fastening. Designed with a focus on long­term durability, operational speed, and ergonomic efficiency, these tools are built not only to perform, but to endure. PT tools are built to handle the demands of modern manufacturing environments – whether in automotive, construction, metalwork or heavy assembly lines.

“ENGINEERING SIMPLICITY, DELIVERING RELIABILITY”

At the core of the PT series is a commitment to simplicity. BRALO has significantly reduced the number of internal components, replacing complex assemblies with a streamlined design that relies on high­quality materials and advanced machining. By eliminating plastic and low­resistance parts, BRALO has created a riveter that’s not only stronger, but dramatically more reliable, it says:

“This approach ensures fewer potential points of failure, greatly reducing the risk of air or oil leakage over time. For the end user, this means less downtime, easier

on­site maintenance, and greater continuity in production environments.”

FASTER, SMARTER RIVETING

Advanced air redistribution technology enables faster piston return while maintaining long­term precision. There’s no loosening or slack over time, just consistent, high­speed riveting cycle after cycle.

FORGED TO PERFORM – ALUMINIUM WHERE IT COUNTS

Unlike other riveters on the market, BRALO’s PT models feature both a forged aluminium air chamber body and handle. This delivers high structural strength while keeping tool weight low – ideal for extended use in high­volume operations. BRALO said the PT range provides “unmatched durability, exceptional air­tightness and low­maintenance reliability”.

The design is built with an exceptionally high safety factor in riveting force, ensuring the tool always operates below its full capacity. This not only protects internal mechanisms from wear but also contributes to an extended service life.

The new PT line from BRALO has simplicity at its core

BUILT WITH THE OPERATOR IN MIND

Every detail of the PT range has been designed with the operator in mind. The ambidextrous grip ensures comfort for both right­ and left­handed users, while the adjustable mandrel collector with directional air exhaust improves comfort and safety during use.

A TOOL FOR EVERY TASK

From standard rivets to lockbolts (pin and collar), rivet nuts and threaded studs, the BRALO PT range covers it all, thanks to a wide variety of interchangeable nosepieces ensures the right fit for an extensive range of industrial applications.

BUILT FOR INDUSTRY & TESTED IN THE REAL WORLD

BRALO PT range is designed as a complete fastening solution engineered to keep pace with modern industry. No matter how tools are treated – carefully maintained or pushed to the limit – these riveters are built to last, says the firm.

Whether for standard, structural, or high­strength rivets, BRALO offers five specialised pneumatic tools, each fine­tuned to a specific application.

BRALO PT TOOLS FOR RIVET NUTS AND RIVET STUDS

The PT range extends beyond rivets to include high­efficiency tools for rivet nuts, with an emphasis on low air consumption, high setting force and user­focused features. Each model includes force/stroke adjustment, a reverse thread function and a sealed design for silent, consistent performance.

// BRALO has significantly reduced the number of internal components, replacing complex assemblies with a streamlined design that relies on high-quality materials and advanced machining //

The firm concludes: “With its PT pneumatic riveter range, BRALO has crafted a tool family for real industry – designed not just to function, but to thrive in demanding environments. From rivet nuts to structural fastenings, these tools strike a rare balance between strength, speed, and operator comfort.

“For professionals who demand reliability with every cycle, the BRALO PT range is more than a tool – it’s a partner in production.”

NEW PT RANGE OF PNEUMATIC RIVETERS

Built for Industry Engineered to resist

High pull force throughout the range, ideal for demanding assembly lines. Extremely fast even on demanding long rivet applications.

Versatile riveting tools to cover a wide range of applications. Robust and ef昀cient design for high durability and low maintenance.

Founded in 1992, MATATAKITOYO TORQUE TOOLS is a leading Taiwanese manufacturer specialising in highquality torque tools for automotive, aerospace, electronics and industrial applications. With over 30 years of expertise, the award winning firm delivers precision­engineered and cutting­edge solutions that ensure accuracy, durability and safety for professionals worldwide.

Unique Technology & Advantages

MATATAKITOYO’s latest torque tools feature advanced calibration technology, ergonomic design and strict quality control to meet or exceed international standards. It also offers customised solutions to meet diverse industry requirements.

The globally competitive business has a strong market presence, with the majority of its business in Europe (80%), with 6% in North America 6%, 8% in Northeast Asia and 4% in Southeast Asia. Its healthy R&D capability puts it in good stead to continuously innovate and that’s seen through its certifications from VPA/GS and VDE/GS, as well as its honours such as the Good Design Award, Golden Peak Award, ICET Award and Golden Torch Award.

New Product Highlight

MATATAKITOYO’s latest Digital Torque Adapter provides precise, real­time torque measurement with user­friendly

MATATAKITOYO’s Taichung HQ

operation and broad compatibility, enhancing flexibility and efficiency in diverse applications.

MATATAKITOYO is committed to empowering professionals worldwide with reliable torque control, backed by Taiwan’s manufacturing excellence.

www.matatakitoyo.com

STAHWILLE: TORQUING SPACE

STAHLWILLE is among the tool specialists that also offer storage and working space product lines, including this new workbench solution: The WB 630. Two metres wide and 72.5cm deep, it sports any intelligent features, such as an adjustable working height and numerous expansion options.

The WB 630 worktop is made of FSC­certified rubber wood. Rubber trees are around 50% harder than oak, so the wood is therefore one of the most resistant types and therefore ideal for worktops. With a thickness of three centimetres, the working area is also strong enough to withstand static loads of up to 1,000 kg. And the robust substructure can be adjusted in 25 mm increments for individual adjustment of the working height in the range of 77.3 to 107.8 cm – for back­friendly, ergonomic working.

The feature­laden WB 630 workbench has a perforated back panel enabling flexible attachment of tool holders or holders for spray cans and paper rolls. There’s also an integrated EU power strip with three sockets and two USB ports. Meanwhile, two rubberised passages allow for orderly routing of connection and power cables.

A TCS­ready, lockable drawer is also included, as is a safety lock for the optional TOP BOX. The drawer with internal dimensions of 530 x 350 x 74.5 mm offers a telescopic full extension with smooth­running ball cage guide for optimal accessibility of the tools. The bracket for the TOP BOX provides plenty of addi­

tional storage space on its own. With the TOP BOX attached, it significantly increases the storage volume, as the TOP BOX adds four drawers to the workbench.

The WB 630 workbench is available now and is available in two sets: Set 1 includes workbench and TOP BOX. Set 2 also contains a 157­piece tool set for the TOP BOX, distributed over six TCS inlays. With it, you are perfectly equipped for a wide range of tasks.

www.stahlwille.com

What do you bench?

Stahlwille’s WB 630 is available in 2 sets

CAS GROWS 70 NEW TOOLS IN 12 MONTHS

The Metabo-led battery sharing platform goes from strengthto-strength with – as this magazine goes to press – BECK joining the pantheon of skilled trade-oriented power tools…

The CAS cordless alliance – Cordless Alliance System – is continuing to grow and set new standards in cordless efficiency in the skilled trades. Launched in 2018 under the umbrella of power tool manufacturer Metabo, CAS now unites 45 leading brands and over 450 machines, all of which can be powered by the same battery – a cross­manufacturer system that offers real investment security and helps to simplify work processes. CAS aims to avoid professionals worrying about different chargers, batteries and interfaces for their cordless power tools, freeing them up to concentrate on their work.

Quantity and variety: 70 new products in twelve months

A look at the past year shows how CAS has been driving innovation and application diversity: Around 70 new tools have been added to the alliance's product range over the past 12 months. This is no coincidence, but the result of a clear strategy: CAS is expanding its portfolio specifically for different trades – from wood and metalworking to plumbing, heating and tiling to many other applications on the construction site.

Stronger networking – also internationally

At the same time, CAS is gaining visibility and relevance internationally: more and more partner companies from Europe and overseas are joining the alliance. This not only strengthens the product range, but also makes CAS a genuine system solution for professionals in many countries.

Technology driver: LiHDX – performance reimagined

At the heart of the system is the battery technology developed by Metabo – now in its latest version, LiHDX. It stands for maximum energy density, reduced charging times and uncompromising peak performance thanks to tabless cell technology and efficient heat management. In combination with powerful quick chargers such as the ASC 290, even large batteries (e.g. 8.0 Ah) can be fully charged in around 30 minutes.

Targeted solutions for every industry

Targeting different trades is a key component of CAS's success. To name just the areas of application with the greatest variety of machines, the alliance now offers, among other things

• for wood, roofing & finishing: nine brands with around 50 machines, including cordless nailers, various saws and routers for a wide range of requirements

• for HVAC & tiling: seven brands with more than 40 cordless tools, for example for pressing, cutting, drilling or installation

• in the metal sector, 12 brands with a total of 75 different devices making up a broad portfolio.

The flow of new brands wanting to use the battery system continues unabated. As a result, new and stronger applicationspecific target groups are constantly emerging. Currently, the areas of maintenance and repair as well as electrical installation are growing.

The future

For users, the increase in partners and machines means a steadily growing gain in flexibility and investment security, and so a clear advantage in practice, argues CAS, and all this with proven quality, reliability and consistent system compatibility.

The Battery Alliance CAS currently comprises more than 45 manufacturers with over 450 machines, all of which can be powered by one CAS battery.

More information on the new battery generation is available on the website.

cordless-alliance-system.com

THE NEXT GENERATION OF POWERED TORQUE TOOLS FROM NORBAR

'Advanced connectivity' technology is key to the new cutting edge of torque tools arriving from Norbar…

Norbar Torque Tools Ltd has revealed the latest evolution to its compact battery torque multiplier range. Building on the success of the EBT­C launched in September 2024, the EBT­CA sets a higher standard in repeatable accuracy, connectivity and user control, with models available in both 750 Nm and 1,100 Nm capacities.

EBT­CA features the addition of advanced tool modes (including: Angle mode, Torque and Angle monitoring and Audit mode), a patented cooling system and various advanced connectivity options for high repeatable accuracy and durability whilst retaining the compact, lightweight and ergonomic design of the EBT­C to improve operator’s grip and comfort while allowing for easier access to applications.

The EBT­CA is designed to set new standards in the torque multiplier market and is suited to a range of bolting applications across various industries that require a tool with precise torque application, measurement, data management and exceptional thermal durability.

The patented cooling system is engineered to manage and dissipate heat efficiently during operation, ensuring the tool maintains optimal operating temperatures, even under rigorous use.

One of the main challenges when using electronic torque tools is ensuring accuracy, repeatability and reliability. Recognising this challenge, Norbar has designed the EBT­CA to inherit the

EvoTorque®’s patented transducer control and ‘intelligent joint sensing’ technology and deliver a repeatable torque accuracy of ±3%, meaning every application meets precise specifications, with every bolt tightened to the correct torque.

The EBT­CA torque multiplier has a PC software platform available on the Norbar website, and a mobile application from Google Play and the Apple Store. This allows operators to communicate directly to the EBT­CA by connecting the tool to a mobile phone or PC to manage tool settings, run diagnostic checks, access results and view graphs.

Norbar has prioritised operator safety with the development of this new product, equipping the EBT­CA with a ‘safeto­start’ button that virtually eliminates the threat of accidental activation and ensures operators hands are kept clear of reaction pinch points.

Ian Hyland, Product Manager at Norbar Torque Tools says the new EBT­CA excels where other tools cannot thanks to its advanced connectivity and features. “The EBT­CA is an advanced version of our EBT­C, designed to further the possibilities of the tool through Norbar ingenuity. This tool is designed for those who depend on reliability, precision and repeatability every time, with no room for error.”

www.norbar.com

Last year's EBT-C launch has spurred a broader ‘advanced connectivity’ line-up of torque tools, including the EBT-CA

WHY ARE MORE PROS UPGRADING FROM IMPACT TO GEAR-REDUCTION TORQUE WRENCHES?

RAD Torque Systems shares its views and findings gleaned from industry on the shifting needs and wants of engineers when it comes to pro tools…

In demanding industries where precision, safety and durability are critical, the tools you use can make all the difference. That’s why more professionals are trading in traditional impact wrenches for gear­reduction torque wrenches – a smarter, safer, and more consistent solution for high­torque applications.

Industrial Torque Wrenches from RAD Torque Systems are among those leading the charge, offering new levels of control and reliability in fields ranging from aerospace and wind energy to mining and manufacturing.

Impact vs. Gear-Reduction Torque Wrenches: Key Differences

Let’s break down what sets these two tools apart:

• Impact Wrenches: Deliver torque through rapid bursts of high­speed hammering. While effective for loosening bolts, this mechanism can lead to inconsistent torque delivery, excess vibration, and premature wear on both tools and fasteners.

• Gear-Reduction Torque Wrenches: Use controlled electric or pneumatic motors paired with internal gearing systems to apply torque smoothly and precisely. This results in consistent output, better fastener integrity, and a longer lifespan for both tool and component.

1. GREATER PRECISION WHERE IT MATTERS MOST

Precision isn’t just a nice­to­have – it’s essential in environments like:

• Data centres, where uneven torque can damage critical infrastructure.

• Rail systems, where fastener security directly impacts safety.

• Aerospace and defence, where tolerances are tight and compliance is non­negotiable.

Gear­reduction torque tools offer programmable torque settings and deliver smooth, repeatable results – unlike impact wrenches, which rely on bursts that can overshoot or undershoot target torque values.

2. EXTENDED LIFESPAN, LESS DOWNTIME

Because gear­reduction wrenches operate with fewer highimpact internal motions, they tend to wear down far more slowly. The internal gears experience less friction, and brushless motors have fewer failure points.

This not only means the tools themselves last longer, but also that users benefit from:

• Lower maintenance costs

• Fewer unexpected repairs

• Less frequent recalibration

• Better total ROI over time

3. QUIET, ERGONOMIC WORK ENVIRONMENTS

In industries already dealing with high decibel levels and tough work conditions, minimizing operator fatigue is a growing priority. Gear­reduction wrenches are significantly quieter than impact tools and produce less vibration – making them ideal for:

• Extended­use jobs

• Indoor facilities with noise restrictions

• Workspaces where employee health and safety are a focus

This quieter, smoother operation also makes them more compliant with modern workplace safety standards related to vibration exposure.

When to make the switch

While impact wrenches still serve a purpose for quick removals or low­precision tasks, they fall short in applications that demand consistent torque and operator comfort. If you’re consistently working in environments where precision, durability, and ergonomics matter, upgrading to a gear­reduction system isn’t just smart – it’s essential.

Conclusion: The future of torque is controlled

Gear­reduction torque wrenches represent the next evolution in fastening technology. They improve job site safety, reduce equipment wear, and ensure fasteners are tightened to spec –every single time.

Want help choosing the right gear­reduction torque solution? Contact the experts at RAD Torque Systems to learn more.

www.radtorque.com/contact

Torque wrenches – like the B-RAD Xtreme 3000 – afford more control for users than impact wrenches, argues RAD Torque Systems

Up to 55 million special 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 · info@pasvahl.de

NO MATTER WHAT SIZE –100% RELIABILITY MATTERS

Only continuous monitoring and testing can ensure 100% reliability of bolted joints. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of TEST and ANALYSIS systems that evaluate the functional characteristics of bolted connections – including coefficient of friction, preload force, torque, and bolting tools. Our systems record all measured values and present the documented results in a clear and structured format.

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

ANCHORS

FISCHER’S ALL-ROUNDER FOR FASTENING APPLICATIONS

As strong as a steel anchor and as easy to install as a plastic plug – the new fischer HybridPower combines the best of both worlds. Versatile and reliable, the HybridPower works in all standard solid and hollow building materials – the flexible problem solver of nearly any fixing task...

Even experienced DIY enthusiasts and craftsmen sometimes can be uncertain when choosing the right anchor.

A heavy wall cabinet is to be mounted on the wall – but which anchor is the right one? Various factors play a role here: the interaction of the building material, anchor and screw as well as the type and extent of the load applied and other parameters. But what if the anchoring surface is unknown? And above all: how can maximum security be guaranteed so that pull­up bars, kitchen wall units hold reliably? Ease of use is also important. It is convenient if the installation works with familiar steps as with a conventional plastic plug – without any special tools.

The fischer HybridPower is the problem solver for a wide range of fixing tasks that fulfils all these wishes and requirements. With this all­rounder, users always have the right solu­

Hanging tough: the fischer HybridPower can be installed like a classic plug without special tools or torque wrench

tion for every common fixing task. That’s because the fischer HybridPower unites the strengths of both classic plastic and steel anchors. It combines easy handling with high load­bearing capacity, long­lasting security and versatile application options in all common anchoring substrates.

Whether TV consoles, wall shelves, kitchen hanging cabinets, wardrobes, lighting, pull­up bars, wooden slats, metal brackets and supports or HVAC fasteners (plumbing, heating, air conditioning, ventilation) – the HybridPower enables these and many other applications in solid and hollow building materials. The HybridPower is equally suitable for interior work in heavy duty applications requiring simple installation as it is for industrial and HVAC applications, such as fixing cable trays, ventilation and air conditioning systems and pipework. The range is suitable for metal and timber attachments up to 10mm.

Thanks to its high­performance metal components, the HybridPower also holds heavy loads and offers a high loadbearing capacity. Even in the event of a fire breaking out, it guarantees permanently secure anchoring – certified by the fire certificate. The metal power wedges of the anchor interlock with the building material, giving users that extra bit of security. Thanks to the clever combination of materials, the HybridPower can be installed like a classic plastic plug and used across all standard solid and hollow building materials. Typically, the choice of anchors depends on the installation method, such as pre­positioned or push­through installation. With the HybridPower, users always have the right solution. Thanks to its universal plug head, it can be used for either prepositioned or push­through installation. This also increases flexibility in application. Installation is straightforward – without any special tools or torque wrench. Simply insert the plug into the drill hole by hand or with just a few hammer blows and screw in the screw. The HybridPower expands in the building material thanks to its flexible plastic casing and holds securely and permanently. Together with hexagon head screws, the plug is suitable for fixing metal constructions, while with countersunk screws it is predestined for attaching wooden fixing parts. The included screw ensures a clean, flush finish without any protruding threaded rod. Removal is possible at any time if required. Simply remove the screw to release the fixing point.

With the fischer HybridPower, DIY enthusiasts and professionals are well equipped to realise a wide variety of fastening tasks in easily, safely and reliably.

www.fischer.group

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

INDEX ANCHORS AND CONCRETE SCREWS

INDEX have a range of anchoring solutions for every environment from stainless steel products to short concrete screws…

The range of stainless steel MTH anchors from INDEX® offer secure fastenings in outdoor and aggressive environments.

The A2 and A4 stainless steel MTH expansion anchors offer a robust, secure and durable solution for high­load structural fastenings in non­cracked concrete. They are certified according to European Technical Assessment ETA 05/0242 Option 7, meeting structural safety and fire resistance requirements, making them a reliable choice for outdoor installations.

The MTH­A2 anchor, made of A2 stainless steel (AISI 304), is recommended for interiors with high humidity or exteriors away from marine or industrial environments. The MTH­A4 anchor, made of A4 stainless steel (AISI 316), offers superior strength. It is ideal for coastal, industrial or aggressive environments, such as areas near roads.

MTH anchors offer high load capacity thanks to their friction expansion and are suitable for a wide variety of uses: from railings, signage and street furniture to machinery and metal structures. They also stand out for their corrosion resistance. The use

The INDEX MTHA2 anchor, made of A2 stainless steel (AISI 304), is recommended for interiors with high humidity or exteriors away from marine or industrial environments

ANCHORS

of stainless materials not only improves durability and reduces maintenance but also minimises the risk of corrosion failure.

INDEX® manufactures MTH anchors entirely in­house, allowing for total control of the production process and ensuring consistency in quality standards.

The stainless steel MTH range responds to the growing demand for resistant and certified solutions for outdoor use. Their strength, durability and certification consolidate them as an effective and safe solution for structural fastenings in demanding environmental conditions.

INDEX has also launched a new range of SF short concrete screws, designed for quick fastenings in areas with limited thickness or restricted access.

On construction sites, it is common to find structural elements with little thickness or areas where space prevents the use of conventional anchors. In these cases, installers resort to improvised solutions, such as oversized anchors or excessive drilling, which can compromise the structure, lengthen installation times and increase the risk of errors.

To respond to these situations, INDEX has developed the new SF range of short concrete screws, designed for secure fastenings with limited depth and without the need for plugs.

In renovations, refurbishments or technical installations, it is not always feasible to drill deep holes or use expansion anchors. The SF range is designed for these scenarios, allowing for shallower fixings without compromising strength, thanks to a threaded design optimised for cracked and non­cracked concrete.

The SF range features a galvanised coating and comes in three versions, adapted to different needs:

• SFP: with pan head, for visible finish fixings.

• SFT: with truss head, for plates, metal sheets or fixings requiring a larger support surface.

• SFM: with male thread, for suspended installations, such as threaded rods or air conditioning and electrical elements.

Like the rest of the INDEX range of concrete screws, SF models are installed with standard tools and without additional accessories. As a result of its application, it guarantees:

• Shorter assembly time, ideal for repetitive work.

• Lower risk of cracking, even near edges.

• Possibility of dismantling and reuse, useful in temporary or provisional installations.

These features make SF screws a versatile option for installers and a high added­value solution for distributors looking to expand their catalogue with practical, certified, high­performance products.

www.indexfix.com

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

ANCHOR SELECTION MADE EASY

EJOT’s AnchorFix 2025 software makes anchor dimensioning and selection even easier…

Anew version of EJOT’s AnchorFix software improves the process for developing anchoring designs and specifications for heavy­duty and safety­critical applications.

The software, which is free to download from the EJOT website, enables different fastening options within the EJOT through­bolt, resin anchoring and LIEBIG heavy­duty anchor ranges to be compared with ease. The result is a streamlining of the anchor dimensioning and calculation process to achieve cost and time savings.

Increased flexibility is a key benefit of the AnchorFix update, with new functionality to compare both standard and bespoke fastening options for different applications for the first time in line with all applicable standards and design codes.

An upgrade from the original AnchorFix is the ability to carry out a design specifically according to the application requirements, rather than being constrained by the current design code EN 1992­4 (Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures ­ Design of fastenings for use in concrete). This expands the software’s scope, enabling designs to be developed where the baseplate and anchor geometry falls outside of the scope of the design code. All calculations are backed with accurate and up­to­date code compliance or engineering judgment for all design outputs.

This means AnchorFix’s new capabilities allow the modular design concept of the LIEBIG range of heavy­duty anchors to be fully utilised for the first time in a digital environment. Designs can be achieved using readily available special­length anchors which are covered under the same ETA approvals as all standard­length anchors, increasing the flexibility available within AnchorFix and improving the speed of design for specifiers and engineers alike.

Another important feature improved in the latest AnchorFix is the process for optimising cost and efficiency. It also assists

AnchorFix’s new capabilities allow the modular design concept of the LIEBIG range of heavyduty anchors to be fully utilised for the first time in a digital environment

ANCHORS

Free to download, EJOT’s Anchorfix enables different fastening options to be compared with ease

when tasked with value engineering a solution to achieve a reduction in the total installed cost without compromising performance.

Paul Papworth, EJOT UK’s anchoring specialist said: “In creating AnchorFix 2025, our developers have achieved a new software release which is still based on the latest ETA data, the latest design approach, governed by EN1992­4, but with the ability to plot the actual connection design within the program as a nonregular baseplate or anchor group arrangement. This, in turn, will yield multi­product options supported by a report referencing the EN standard and/or manufacturer verification of the calculation.

“Once the anchoring design and specification is confirmed and work begins on site, EJOT’s support continues with installation trials and tool­box­talks to ensure installers are correctly trained to achieve the optimum results. This gives us the opportunity to partner with designers and contractors from ‘Concept through Construction to Commissioning’ – it is what we call our 3C total support approach.”

AnchorFix is part of an extensive package of support available from EJOT UK to help customers achieve the most effective anchoring solutions. This includes laboratory testing at its state­of­the­art research and development facility, the Applitec Centre, at its Yorkshire HQ, along with on­site pull­out tests.

www.ejot.co.uk/software-anchorfix

A scope-broadening upgrade means AnchorFix can now carry out a design specifically according to the application requirements, rather than being constrained by the current design code EN 19924

BEYOND

THE EXTRA MILE

Gesipa’s Belgian office may be small in size, but the team headed by Erik de Jaeger are determined to grow opportunities in the region and do whatever it takes to exceed customer expectations. Torque Magazine chats with Erik about his role within the blind rivet and riveting tool firm, and Gesipa’s plans for the regional base...

Erik de Jaeger relishes his role as the ‘Face of Gesipa’ in Belgium, even if he is more formally known as its Key Account Manager. Working for the company for four years, since it established the regional base, he wears many hats from sales to strategy and everything in between, Erik is willing to do what is needed to get the job done. With a deep understanding of products and the ability to provide solutionoriented support for complex requirements, he is responsible for the Belgian market and is the central point of contact for dealers, end customers and automation projects.

Jumping into the industry, Erik was happy to face the challenges that came with the new role. Gesipa was looking for somebody to take over the Belgian market, requiring him to work very autonomously, be somewhat self­sufficient and get hands on. “Before working for Gesipa, I was in the packaging industry, so moving to fasteners and tools was a jump, as it is very technical and it was completely new, but I like a challenge and I’m always open to them,” explains Erik. He took over the development of the sales department, updating customer data, price lists and improving efficiencies with process changes and the introduction of a repair and service area. Today, the team also covers technology, customer service and warehouse logistics.

With Belgium being a much smaller market than Gesipa’s home base in Germany, it represents a small division for the company and the wider SFS Group, but that size allows for opportunities to try new things and the ability to provide a personal touch. “We will always be a small entity in Gesipa’s global environment but that allows us to have some freedom,” said Erik. He looks to get a real sense of customers specific requirements and is committed to providing practical, application­oriented support whether it is with customer visits, demonstrations or technical expertise – and he is happy to do this for everyone from small workshops, dealer networks or larger automation projects.

Belgium is facing similar economic challenges to many other European markets at present, but Erik faces other problems too. “Belgium is a growing market for Gesipa, but we are still facing a lot of challenges. I have to contend with not only the larger economic and environmental challenges facing the market, but also individual challenges that come from being a small base. My time is very valuable, and I need to make priorities each day and decide what I’m going to do. But then there may be a change of plans, and I need to be flexible and set other goals. Something I’m happy to do to get things done.”

To help offset some of these challenges, not only does Erik work alongside a variety of teams in Gesipa’s head office but he joins forces with others from the CAS partnership to collaborate on exhibitions and promote Gesipa’s visibility in the region. Erik explains,

“At the end of this year, I will be joining other CAS partners such as Metabo Belgium to exhibit. We are working very hard on being present and visible in the marketplace and letting people know that the companies are there to support to you and whatever it takes we are there for you.”

Erik sets very high standards for himself and others in the team, striving to improve his visibility and awareness with customers and potential customers in Belgium. “Gesipa is investing in us and what we do but we are also working on improving awareness. It’s very important to do a good job, but if people don’t know you are there to start with, then how are they going to find you?”

An equally important part of his work is supporting specialist retailers. Depending on requirements, De Jaeger accompanies dealers to their customers, provides training or offers advice. “It’s important to me that our sales partners are in the best position to sell Gesipa products,” he explains. He thinks long­term: instead of just responding to enquiries, he seeks continuous exchange, offers support at an early stage and so creates reliability.

Looking ahead is something Erik is keen to do, setting lofty goals and expectations for himself as well as Gesipa. “I love my job and one of the ways I can distinguish myself from other people is that I always try to go the extra mile. Regarding customer visits and where I can give support, I know I go beyond the extra mile, this is my mindset. I know that I can distinguish myself from other competitors because I go further where others would stop, and this is my biggest strength. I don’t promise things that I can’t deliver.”

It is this desire for exemplary customer service that stems from Gesipa too as the Head of Marketing Industrial End Markets, Andrea Lawitschka explains. “Gesipa doesn’t just want to deliver riveting tools and blind rivets. We want to deliver the full system. We want to support our customer and to reach the best solution for the customer and his production. We want to be a partner. This is our aim and the aim of the Belgian market and team too.”

Gesipa's super light weight riveting tool

Gesipa Belgium is set to grow further – both structurally and strategically. The plan is to expand the sales team and provide even greater support for more complex projects in the field of automation. The aim is also to increase the company’s market presence: Gesipa wants to be more actively perceived and approached by relevant target groups as a technical partner. For Erik, this means one thing above all else: shaping development together. “Whenever I have the opportunity to grow, I try to bring others along with me. This is the only way to create a genuine partnership – within the team and with the customer,” he says.

www.gesipa.be

Erik de Jaeger is the Key Account Manager for Gesipa in Belgium

SWIFT, PRECISE, RELIABLE

Barton Cold-Form is geared up to make swift production adjustments to meet urgent client needs, as shown in this case study when the team successfully fulfilled a special request arising from a technical IT error…

Optimas’ UK manufacturing division, Barton Cold­Form, has successfully completed a major production shift for a client, reducing the delivery lead time from six weeks to just six days.

A customer of Barton Cold­Form experienced a technical IT error, resulting in the stock of externally threaded fasteners reaching a dangerously low level. This low level would stop the client’s production within just one week unless the fasteners could arrive in time.

// This is what UK manufacturing excellence looks like – fast, focused and deeply connected to our local supply chain //

Barton Cold­Form made several production adjustments after receiving the request from the client. Firstly, it reorganised the tooling schedule and completed a tool change within four hours, which normally takes eight hours. Secondly, it resumed manufacturing overnight and activated local subcontractors for plating and hardening.

After adjustments, Barton Cold­Form successfully dispatched the fasteners by 6am on the following Monday.

Commenting on this production adjustment, Mike Tuffy, CEO of Optimas International said: “This is what UK manufacturing excellence looks like – fast, focused and deeply connected to our local supply chain.”

Frank Walsh, Vice President of UK Manufacturing at Optimas, added that Barton operates as a cohesive unit, with everyone aligning with a shared purpose when a challenge arises.

Barton Cold­Form specialises in the production of externally threaded fasteners for a wide range of industries, providing Optimas’ UK and European customers with in­house fastener design, engineering and production capabilities.

The company’s site operates 29 cold heading machines running 24 hours a day, producing fasteners with precision tolerances of up to 0.02mm. Supported by 45 secondary operations and thread rolling machines, ranging from pointing to CNC turning, the facility delivers a diverse range of durable fasteners. Barton also offers the flexibility to manufacture lowvolume, high­quality parts ideal for prototyping and earlystage design. Committed to sustainability, the site recycles 89% of cold forming waste material, with none sent to landfill, while achieving an impressive output of more than one million fasteners every day.

www.optimas.com

Barton operates 29 cold heading machines running 24 hours a day

Barton Cold-Form specialises in the production of externally threaded fasteners for multiple industries

STRUCTURAL CHANGE UNLOCKS COMBINED EXPERTISE

The Tibbetts Group’s BFC is joining a newly formed Technical Department alongside other divisions, enabling customers to access combined engineering and product management expertise…

BFC, a division of the Tibbetts Group, has been supplying bespoke and standard fasteners and components for over 50 years. Specialising in cold­formed and turned parts, pressings, volume production items and spares, the company delivers competitive solutions across all C­Class product categories.

Recently, the engineering function across the Tibbetts Group evolved into a new, expanded Technical Department, reflecting a renewed commitment to innovation, quality and first­class customer service.

The shift from Engineering to Technical spanned all three Group divisions, including TGL, BFC and Powell Gee, and represented more than a name change. It brought together decades of experience from the team of product engineers and product managers under the leadership of Group Technical Manager, James Waters.

This integrated approach gives customers streamlined access to combined engineering and product management expertise, enabling faster response times and proactive, tailored support. By uniting capabilities under a single technical partner, BFC’s clients can rely on consistent expertise to support their business.

“I’m thrilled to lead our expanded Technical team and work closely with customers around the world during our next phase of growth,” says Waters. “By amplifying our expertise through this structural change, we can provide customers with even more forward­thinking solutions that keep their business ahead.”

BFC’s inventory includes a wide range of cold­formed parts, including screws, bolts, nuts and other fasteners, all manufactured to the highest industry standards.

“By uniting our best minds under a single Technical umbrella, we’re accelerating innovation and sharpening our competitive edge across The Tibbetts Group. I’m excited to continue working with James and his team to reinforce the exceptional service our customers rely on,” says Jonathan Tibbetts, Managing Director of the Tibbetts Group.

www.tibbetts-bfc.com

TGL, BFC and Powell Gee all joins the newly formed Technical Department

FEWER PARTS, STRONGER FRAMES

The JESOLVA® system developed by JFE Steel integrates a reduced number of parts made of ultra-high-tensile steel sheet, reducing repair expenses in the event of collision damage…

JFE Steel has developed a proprietary solution for manufacturing the rear­end component of automobile frames by using cold­press forming to integrate a reduced number of parts made of ultra­high­tensile steel sheet.

This innovation not only boosts production efficiency and reduces costs, but also improves portability and lowers repair expenses in the event of collision damage.

Cold pressing complex parts can cause material cracks, buckling wrinkles and dimensional inaccuracies. To overcome these challenges, JFE Steel employs its JESOLVA® system, which enables precise forming of large ultra­high­strength steel sheets of up to 1,470 MPa.

The company has now combined this with Tailor Welded Blank (TWB) technology, which uses laser welding to join steel sheets of varying thickness and strength, and its Cold Patchwork Method to integrate sheets of different properties into a single rear­frame component. The result is fewer parts, enhanced productivity and lower production costs.

Rear­end components are crucial for protecting a vehicle in rear collisions. Traditionally, these large modular structures –around 1,600mm long, 1,400mm wide and 140mm deep –consist of 11 spot­welded parts. JFE Steel’s approach reduces the assembly to just three parts: one left, one right and a central cross member, while maintaining the required collision performance.

While automakers increasingly explore large­scale component

integration, such as aluminium gigacasting or medium­scale integration using hot stamping, JFE Steel’s approach focuses on ultra­high­tensile steel solutions. Beyond supplying materials, the company actively engages in early vendor involvement, collaborating with clients from the initial stages of automotive development to optimise new products and performance.

Looking ahead, JFE Steel plans to further expand the application of ultra­high­tensile steel in auto­body components, combining improved performance with weight reduction to support a more sustainable automotive future.

www.jfe-steel.co.jp

JFE Steel develops a cold-press forming solution to make rear automobile frame parts with fewer components using ultra-high tensile steel

JFE Steel plans to further expand the application of ultra-high-tensile steel in auto-body components

•EXHIBITION• NETWORKING• •SEMINARS• AWARDS•

Torque-Expo2026willreturntoTelfordInternationalCentre,followingonfromthesuccessoftheprevious eventsin2022and2024.Thiskeyone-dayeventoffersaB2B exhibition,a substantial conference programme,aninnovationzoneshowcasingnewandunusualproducts,followedbyaneveningofnetworking andanawardspresentationhighlightingtheindustry’slatestdevelopmentsandachievements.Torque-Expo 2026isacompactandcost-effectiveevent,maximisingtimeoutoftheofficeandreturnoninvestment. 12 MAY 2026 TUESDAY

EARLY BIRD CONFIRMED EXHIBITORS FOR 2026

Smith Bullough

Trio unites for ‘The Rivet Company’ launch

The merging of Scell-It UK, Kamtech Fasteners and Arpel brings more than £3.5 million worth of stock into one central system, and distribution of the ELEMENT brand…

Asignificant change has taken place in the rivet market with the creation of The Rivet Company.

Merging Scell­it UK, Kamtech Fasteners and Arpel, The Rivet Company is, alongside partner company Rivco, exclusive distributor of the ELEMENT brand in the UK and Ireland.

ELEMENT was introduced in Europe over 15 years ago and the brand is recognised worldwide for its quality and reliability. It will replace the former Scell­it (UK) Group product branding of ARK and Scell­it, but for customers, the message is clear, says the newly formed company: “While the name and brand has changed, no products have changed. The rivets, fixings and setting tools – along with the quality and service behind them – remain exactly the same as before.”

The move has been designed to simplify operations and strengthen supply across both the UK and Ireland markets. Packaging has been redesigned with clearer labels and full traceability, while the core product range remains unchanged.

By consolidating more than £3.5 million worth of stock across two warehouses into one central system, the company will streamline operations and improve delivery times, with a strong focus on next­day service.

Other key benefits for customers include:

• Continuity, working with existing sales and support contacts.

• A single credit control team to handle all accounts.

• A larger combined technical and engineering team will provide expert advice.

The ELEMENT brand has also been backed by several European Technical Assessment (ETA) approvals (with more to come), ensuring quality standards remain consistent while offering better packaging and labelling.

The Rivet Company is, alongside partner company Rivco, exclusive distributor of the ELEMENT brand in the UK and Ireland

With The Rivet Company and Rivco now working under one brand, the group says its goal is to become the most efficient supplier of rivets, rivet nuts, ETA­approved fixings and associated setting tools in the UK and Ireland.

therivetcompany.co.uk

WE ALL HAVE A STORY

I dream of a life out in the peace and quiet of the mountains, but at work, I crave an atmosphere that’s dynamic. I might seem reluctant if you ask me what I think about technology, but I do admit it’s a valuable ally for enhancing our everyday lives.

Ileana Italian Market

AMBROVIT HAS ALWAYS PLACED PEOPLE AT ITS CORE AMBROVIT.IT/EN/UNDERCOVERHEROES

Sunco Shines

Sunco has shared its expertise and information on the screw industry to the public by participating in EXPO 2025 in Osaka

SUNCO has set up a booth at EXPO 2025, which will take place in Osaka from 13 April to 13 October, 2025. EXPO 2025 is an international event themed around “Designing a Future Society Where Life Shines,” bringing together people and things from around the world. At the venue, the collective wisdom of nations from across the globe will converge to address various global challenges, with each country showcasing its unique pavilions.

During the event, from 2 July to 6 July, the “3rd Japan International Art Festival/Osaka­Kansai Expo Exhibition” was held at the EXPO Messe “WASSE,” and SUNCO was selected to participate by recommendation of the Mayor of Higashiosaka City. The booth, which seamlessly blends screws and art, stood out and attracted the attention of many visitors.

President Okuyama’s Greeting

Following the opening ceremony of the 3rd Japan International Art Festival/Osaka­Kansai Expo, President Yoshihide Okuyama delivered a speech at the SUNCO booth. In his speech, President Okuyama stated, “Final products made using screws are widely used in industrial products, automobiles, motorcycles, and more around the world, with many of these utilizing JIS screws. SUNCO is committed to fulfilling its mission of delivering JIS screws to the world from Higashiosaka City, Osaka Prefecture – the region with the highest concentration of screw manufacturers in Japan – and we strive to achieve this every day.”

Exhibition Content

Despite having just under two months to prepare, the booth was filled with numerous innovative ideas. The booth was adorned with meticulously designed wall art and featured unique activities such as making original screw­themed keychains, attracting a steady stream of visitors throughout the day.

Particularly eye­catching was a diorama recreating the “Grand Ring,” the symbolic architecture of EXPO 2025. SUNCO created an art piece using screws to depict this iconic structure for the exhibition. The diorama received significant attention, featuring in TV and online news reports.

The creation of the Grand Ring diorama took over a month to complete using nearly 2,000 screws, all of which were sourced from SUNCO’s warehouse. The screws, carefully selected from SUNCO’s inventory of over 2.05 million items,

expanded the range of expression, resulting in realistic and substantial work. The production team stated, “The actual Grand Ring is constructed without using any nails or screws. There is significant meaning and charm in deliberately expressing such an architectural structure using screws.” Typically, screws serve as fasteners, supporting structures in the background. However, in this diorama, the screws take centre stage, imparting a sense of weight and brilliance unique to metal throughout the work. The meticulously crafted diorama reveals different expressions depending on the angle from which it is viewed.

Booth operations and visitor reactions

The booth attracted a diverse crowd, including school groups, families, and seniors, far exceeding expectations. Many visitors came from the local Higashiosaka area, with comments such as, “I’ve seen the penguin logo before,” and “I saw it on a TV commercial.” This was a valuable opportunity to interact with people outside the industry and reaffirm SUNCO’s brand recognition.

Reactions to the Socket Boy magazine

At the booth, SUNCO actively distributed the “SOCKET BOY” magazine to convey its initiatives, making efforts to ensure it reached as many visitors as possible. Even if the event merely raised awareness that there is a company in Higashiosaka actively engaged in public relations activities such as publishing an informative magazine, then the exhibition was worthwhile.

Post-Expo 2025 aspirations

Participating in the Expo 2025 with the goal of exhibiting there was a significant achievement for SUNCO, as it allowed us to collaborate and work together toward a common objective. The timing was perfect, as employees had begun to think globally in recent years, and the opportunity to participate in EXPO 2025 could serve as a catalyst for future overseas expansion. Going forward, the company plans to actively recruit young talent while working together as a whole to enhance SUNCO’s global recognition and expand sales. SUNCO will continue to pursue its mission of bringing Japanese screws to the world.

www.jisscrew.com

DRIVING INNOVATION IN SHEET METAL WORKING

BEST for Stainless Steel

The 17th Blechexpo will spotlight the full spectrum of sheet metal working, from thermal and mechanical processing to software, automation and quality assurance…

From 21 to 24 October 2025, Stuttgart will once again become the focal point for the global sheet metal industry as the 17th Blechexpo international trade fair for sheet metal working takes place at Messe Stuttgart.

The aim of Blechexpo is to present the complete process chain of cold­forming sheet metal processing, along with associated cutting, joining and connection technologies. For four days, nine exhibition halls will be dedicated to the sheet metalworking value chain, covering both established practices and forward­looking innovations.

Visitors can expect a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from thermal and mechanical sheet metal processing, to system peripherals such as controllers and software, as well as solutions for handling, feeding and quality assurance.

The hall layout is straightforward, with sheet metal, pipe and profile processing located in Halls 1, 3, 5 and 7; stamping technologies in Halls 4 and 6; cutting, joining and fastening solutions in Hall 9; and pressing and forming technologies in Hall 8. Finally, Hall 10 will cover steel and metal services alongside surface finishing technologies. This clear thematic structure allows attendees to navigate the fair with ease, discovering innovations across the full production spectrum.

Running in parallel, the 10th Schweisstec international trade fair for joining technology will further enhance the

offering, bringing together two complementary sectors under one roof.

Beyond the exhibition floor, Blechexpo/Schweisstec has built a strong reputation as a knowledge hub where suppliers, manufacturers and end­users exchange ideas and explore the latest advances in direct dialogue with experts.

Supplementing the fair is the prestigious best Award, which highlights outstanding innovations across five competition categories, including sheet metal, pipe and profile processing; pressing and forming technologies; stamping technologies; cutting, joining and fastening technologies; and steel and metal services with surface finishing technologies. A jury of industry specialists will select the winners, with the awards presented during a ceremony at 4pm on the opening day.

“The range of innovative solutions in the field of metalworking is extremely diverse. Finding and implementing the most suitable innovative solution for an individual problem is often quite challenging,” says Robin Kurth, Group Manager for Forming Machines and Project Manager at the Fraunhofer IWU. “The best Award 2025 highlights outstanding innovations from various areas of sheet metal working and welding technology for interested companies. It promotes an exchange of ideas and the transfer of these innovations into practical applications.”

www.blechexpo-messe.de

TWO NEW PRODUCTS FROM GESIPA: INNOVATION THROUGH AUTOMATION AND VERSATILITY

An automated blind riveting system and a battery-powered setting tool for blind rivet nuts will be showcased at the exhibition, along with existing products…

At Blechexpo, Gesipa will present two new products at stand 9420 in Hall 9, in addition to its existing product range.

BlechExpo is one of the leading trade fairs for sheet metal, profile and tube processing. Gesipa’s focus at this year’s trade fair is on two new devices designed to meet the requirements of today’s manufacturing environments.

With the GAV­Neo, the company is presenting an automated blind riveting system that features high setting force, short cycle times and fully electric, oil­free operation. The absence of compressed air not only makes the system more energy­efficient but also reduces maintenance and operating costs. These features make it suitable for use in automated production lines. Its compact design and reduced maintenance requirements also facilitate efficient integration into existing processes.

The FireBirdie will also be introduced – a new, lightweight battery­powered setting tool for blind rivet nuts. It is equipped with batteries from the manufacturer­independent Cordless Alliance System (CAS) and designed for mobile use, and areas with restricted access. The tool supports continuous drilling and removal, even with long or pre­inserted blind rivet nuts.

// The GAV-Neo is an automated blind riveting system that features high setting force, short cycle times and fully electric, oil-free operation //

Three operating modes are available for different requirements: force control, position control and the combined ThreadSafe mode, which takes both parameters into account. The FireBirdie expands the existing range with a cordless solution for flexible applications.

In addition to these two new products, Gesipa will also be showcasing existing devices and its range of blind rivets, blind rivet nuts and accessories at Blechexpo. The company will also provide information about customised automation solutions that can be flexibly adapted to different production requirements. Trade visitors can obtain personal advice at stand 9420 in Hall 9 and gain an overview of the current product range and its areas of application.

www.gesipa.de

FASTENING INNOVATIONS ON SHOW

Rivit will showcase two flagship tools at sheet metal working show Blechexpo in Stuttgart, underscoring its commitment to fastening technology and consumables while continuing to invest in product innovation, technical expertise and international growth…

On stand 9213 in Hall 9, Rivet will showcase two tools at the 17th Blechexpo, taking place from 21 to 24 October 2025 at Messe Stuttgart.

Developed from years of research and industry expertise, the Controlriv GEN3 is designed to deliver real­time process control for industrial applications. Suitable for sectors including automotive, heavy carpentry, industrial automation and materials handling, the system ensures the correct positioning of blind rivets, rivet nuts and lockbolts while instantly detecting anomalies.

This helps users cut down on errors, reduce downtime and achieve greater cost efficiency. Key capabilities include separate pneumatic and electronic components for easier maintenance, compressed air pressure measurement with alerts for out­of­range values, and realtime monitoring supported by colour­coded visual notifications.

The system also collects and stores process data locally or remotely, and can operate as a standalone unit or within a networked cluster, with connectivity options including Ethernet, Profinet, Wi­Fi and Bluetooth.

Alongside this, Rivit will also introduce the RIV943, its flagship hydro­pneumatic tool for threaded rivet nuts. Combining the power usually associated with booster machines with the handling of a portable tool, the RIV943 has been engineered for demanding applications in the automotive, railway, shipbuilding and heavy carpentry industries.

Its double adjustment capability allows both stroke (up to 10 mm) and force (up to 32,000 N) to be precisely set, while its single­stage operation deforms and unscrews rivet nuts in one efficient action. Compatible with RIVSERT female threaded rivet nuts (M4–M12) and RIVBOLT male threaded rivet nuts (M4–M10), the tool is supplied in a robust case complete with accessories and a technical guide for maintenance, diagnostics and repair.

“Being present at the fair means sending a signal of confidence in the future,” says Francesco Montanari, CEO of Rivit. “In addition to presenting our flagship products, this event is also a valuable opportunity for us to strengthen and consolidate our relationship with our longstanding partner and distributor for the German market, Kreuzer, with whom we share the stand.”

www.rivit.it

Rivit provides a diverse range of high-quality fasteners, tailored to meet the varied needs of its customers

The Controlriv GEN3 is designed to deliver realtime process control for industrial applications

REGULAR FEATURES

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

WOMEN IN FASTENERS & TOOLS

APPRENTICE Q&As

2026 FEATURES

JANUARY- FEBRUARY issue 102

Taking stock of the 2020s & the next 5 years

EDITION

Rivets, rivet tools and rivet technology

Hand tools and consumables

IT services, software and e-business

Building & Construction > Wood, chipboard and decking screws

SHOW PREVIEW > Preview Fastener Expo Frankfurt

SHOW PREVIEW > Eisenwarenmesse (International Hardware Fair Cologne)

SHOW PREVIEW > WIRE Düsseldorf

Q1 issue 103 ENHANCED DIGITAL

Digitalisation: Webshops, EDI, predictive inventory, real-time inventory tracking, etc

Plugs, plasterboard and cavity fixings

Battery technology & smart tools

MARCH-APRIL issue 104 PRINT EDITION

Nylon and plastic fixings and fasteners

Drill & screwdriver bits

Aerospace fasteners & tools

Research & Development

Building & Construction > High tensile (HT) and bolt assemblies

TERRITORY FOCUS > UK

TERRITORY FOCUS > Spain, Portugal

SHOW PREVIEW > Taiwan International Fastener Show

SHOW PREVIEW > Torque-Expo Telford 2026 1

TOOLS & DIY – Included with this issue (UK only)

Q2 issue 105 ENHANCED DIGITAL

Electric vehicle fasteners and tools, and supply chain

Add-on sales > tapes, sprays, gloves & more

Warehouse/inventory management software systems (WMS + ERP)

SHOW PREVIEW > Intersolar

SHOW PREVIEW > Torque-Expo Telford 2026 2

MAY-JUNE issue 106

AI in fasteners/tools

Tools > Made in Germany

Nuts, washers and locking systems

Fastener machines, equipment & tooling

Aesthetic fasteners and fixings

Renewables > Fasteners and tools (wind, solar, green hydrogen, etc)

Building & Construction > ETAs and Accreditations

TERRITORY FOCUS > Italy

SHOW PREVIEW > Fastener Fair Italy

Q3 issue 107 ENHANCED DIGITAL

TERRITORY FOCUS > Turkey

Inspection & quality

Structural engineering & structural fasteners

JULY-AUGUST issue 108 PRINT EDITION

QC laboratory focus

Oils, sprays and lubricants

Warehouse and industrial storage

Fastener Training - Academies

Fasteners Made in India

Building & Construction > Timber engineering

TERRITORY FOCUS > ASIA/PACIFIC

SHOW PREVIEW > International Fastener Expo

SHOW PREVIEW > WindEnergy

SHOW PREVIEW > Euroblech

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER issue 109

Fastener manufacturing special

Stainless steel fixings and fasteners

Torque tools, technology & bolting

Wire & fastener cold heading

Building & Construction > Anchors

TERRITORY FOCUS > North America

SHOW PREVIEW > Taiwan Hardware Show

TOOLS & DIY – Included with this issue (UK only)

Q4 issue 110 ENHANCED DIGITAL

Rivets, rivet tools and rivet technology

IT services, software and e-business

Workwear, PPE and safety

Sustainability > ISO 14001 certification, recyclable packaging, etc

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER issue 111

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

Industry and Trade Associations Wrap up

Security fasteners

Torque Rising Stars

Building & Construction > Adhesives, tapes, sealants and fillers

SHOW PREVIEW > BAU Munich

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

Keller & Kalmbach GmbH & Co. KG

n Fasteners & Fixings

n C-Parts & Kanban Systems

n Drawing Parts

n 3D Printing

n Tools & Safety Equipment

T +49 89 8395-0

E info@keller-kalmbach.com

W www.keller-kalmbach.com

Sinto AGTOS GmbH

n Surface technology

n Blasting machines

n Pretreatment

T +49 (0)2572 960260

E info@agtos.de

W www.agtos.com

Keller & Kalmbach, a family-owned company with over 145 years of experience, is a leading specialist in fasteners, fastening technology, and intelligent C-parts management.

Serving industrial customers worldwide, it employs 1,000 people, generates €400 million in revenue, and is recognised as one of Germany’s most innovative midsized companies.

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

SHOT BLASTING TECHNOLOGY AT ITS BEST

Sinto AGTOS provides shot blasting machines for surface treatment of fasteners and other parts.

The company also offers refurbished shot blast machines, repairs, updating and modernisation. In addition spare and wearing parts are provided.

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

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

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

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

COST:

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 expo@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

BOMET UK LTD.

n Threaded rods

n Threaded studs

n Studding

n Allthread studs

T +32 (0) 11 55 91 14

E Sales.UK@bomet.com

W www.Bomet.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

Gesipa SFS Group Germany 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fürniss GmbH

n Imperial Screws

n Bolts

n Screws

n Aerospace Standard

n latches

T +49 7247954400

E info@fuerniss.de

W https://fuerniss.de/en

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

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

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 10,000 international decision makers), as well as online at torque-expo.com.

COST: Only

SPECIAL PRINT EDITORIAL EXPOSURE (PROFILE)

£750 / €850 INCLUDED AS PART OF THE DIRECTORY PACKAGE. for the year

GWR Fasteners

n Stainless & High Tensile Fasteners & Fixings

n Captive Screws & Washers

n Aluminium Fasteners

n Spacers / Stand-off Collars

n Bar Materials

T +44 (0)1691 654979

E sales@gwr-fasteners.co.uk

W www.gwr-fasteners.co.uk

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

Halfmann Schrauben GmbH

n DIN/EN/ISO Standard Articles

n Stainless steel fasteners

n Plugs and anchors

n Construction bolting assemblies

n Fasteners with various coatings

T +49 (0)201 36484-0

E info@halfmann-schrauben.de W www.halfmann-schrauben.de

T +44 (0)1442 878879

E info@intactsoftware.com

W www.intactsoftware.com

JIMMORE International Corp.

n Torque Screwdriver

n Torque Adapter

n Interchangeable System

n 30% Higher Reversible Torque

n Low MOQ & Custom Design

T +886-4-2260-5352

E sloky@jimmore.com.tw W sloky.jic-tools.com.tw

IVT Verbindungselemente GmbH

n Weld screws

n Weld studs

n Special parts

T +49 2394 911 007

E info@i-vt.de W www.i-vt.de

Joker Industrial Co., Ltd.

n Concrete screw (ETA approval)

n Cavity & plasterboard fixing

n Blind Jack nut

n Hammer-in & frame fixing

n Hollow wall anchor setting tools

T +886-4-7580187

E info@joker.com.tw W www.joker-fastener.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

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.harclob2b.com

KINGWIN PRECISION CO.,LTD.

n Punches

n Molds

n Forming Tools

n Machining Parts

n Accessories

T +886-7-6967721

E service@kingwin.tw W www.kingwin.tw

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

Jiaxing Goodway Hardware

n Cold forming parts

n Hot forging parts

n CNC machining parts

n Stamping parts & Casting parts

n Metal injection moulding parts

T +86-573-82765508

E jackchang@goodway-fastener.com

W www.goodway-fastener.com

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

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

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

YOUR HANDY GUIDE TO DISTRIBUTORS, SUPPLIERS AND MANUFACTURERS IN THE INDUSTRY DIRECTORY

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

Alexander Paal GmbH

n Disc Springs

n Shim Washer

n Retaining Ring

n Snap Ring

n Serrated Lock washers

T +49 (0)2191 906-0

E info@paal.de W www.paal.de

Nylon Fasteners Ltd (Nyfast)

n Threaded Fasteners

n Washers & Spacers

n PCB & LED Fasteners

n Snap Rivets & Panel Fasteners

n Cable Clips & Clamps

T +44 (0) 1256 533 088

E sales@nyfast.co.uk W www.nyfast.com

PEARSON INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

n Auto Rivets for the locking parts

n Anchor Rivet bush nuts

n Self-clinching fasteners

n Fasteners for automotive parts

n Sheet metal fasteners

T +886-3-212-1160

E pearson8@ms29.hinet.net W www.pearson-clinch.com.tw

Optimas

n OptiSpec Bill of Materials Management Solution

n Engineered Fastening Solutions

n OptiTech Managed Inventory Systems

n C-Class Components

n Fastener Manufacturing

n Standard Fasteners

n Sofrasar Tunnel Solutions

E support@optimas.com

W www.optimas.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

SCHRODER

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

pgb-Polska

n Light duty plastic fixings

n Insulation fixings

n Mechanical anchors

n Chemical anchors

n Wood and self-drilling screws

T +48 (32) 330 26 10

E biuro@pgb-polska.com

W www.pgb-polska.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

Shaanxi Sinwa Int’L

n Titanium fasteners

n Titanium alloy vehicles

accessories

n Titanium customised parts

n Hand tools

n Non-standard and special fasteners

T +86 29 8928 9105

E sales@sinwafix.com

W www.sinwafix.com

F. REYHER Nchfg. GmbH & Co. KG

n Special fasteners for automotive & agriculture industry

n DIN/ISO/EN standard articles

n Stainless steel fasteners

n Plugs and anchors

n Construction bolting assemblies

n Fasteners with various coatings

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

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

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

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

Smith
Bullough

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 10,000 international decision makers), as well as online at torque-expo.com.

COST: Only

SPECIAL PRINT EDITORIAL EXPOSURE (PROFILE) £750 / €850 INCLUDED AS PART OF THE DIRECTORY PACKAGE. for the year

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

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

DEEPAK FASTENERS LIMITED

n Socket Head Shoulder Screws & Dowel Pins

n Tension Control Structural Bolt

n Studbolts / Threaded Rods

n Locpin

n Stainless Steel Fasteners

T +91 161 713 1111, 513 1111

E sales@deepakfasteners.com

W https://unbrako.com

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

SUNCO INDUSTRIES JAPAN

n Metric fasteners

n Many kinds of rare-size fasteners

n Many kinds of SEMS screws

n Hexagon socket head cap screws

n Many kinds of materials screws

T +81 6-6539-3560

E export@sunco.co.jp

W www.jisscrew.com

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 sales@taiwan-precisionfastener.com

W taiwan-precision-fastener.com

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

UNION FASTENERS

n Hexagon Bolts/Blanks All Grades

n F436/6916 Metric Washers

n Turned Parts

n Bespoke Exotic Special Fasteners

n In House Forging

T +44 (0) 121 526 6010

E sales@union-fasteners.com W www.union-fasteners.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

Universal Precision Screws (UPS Lakshmi)

n Shoulder Screw

n Pins

n Cylinder head bolts

n High temp application fasteners

n Piston pins

T +91 1262 205110

E amit@upsind.com W www.upsind.com

YESWIN MACHINERY CO., LTD.

n 3-7 Dies Progressive Headers

n 3,4,5 Dies Bolt Forming Machines

n 5,6,7 Dies Bolt Parts Former

n 5,6 Dies Nut Parts Former

n Cold Forging Machines for all fastener parts

T +886-6-2729939

E yeswin@twyeswin.com W www.twyeswin.com

Zolux International Co., Ltd.

n (A2-90/A2-100) Bolt & Nut

n Self-Drilling Screws

n Chipboard Screws (A4, CE)

n Head Painting, Collated Screws

n OEM Design & Package Service

T +886-7-696-2089

E mike.zolux@gmail.com

W www.zolux.com.tw

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

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

NEW CATALOGUE

FOR MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY AND PROFESSIONALS

Fasteners & Tools

The new Rivit catalogue has arrived number 11 !

More than 4500 products, including blind rivets, rivet nuts, lockbolts, tools for fasteners and many other service references, to fulfil even better all requirements.

Increasingly effective and efficient sales support tool, essential for choosing and browsing our comprehensive product range.

CONCRETE SCREWS

Now available in lengths from 40mm - 300mm

JCP’s concrete screws bite into tough surfaces with unstoppable force, resulting in powerful, permanent fixes.

A medium-duty fastener, they are designed to anchor objects into hard materials like concrete, brick, stone or block.

Undercutting Action

Locking Ribs Under Head CSK Head / TX Drive

Fast And Secure Installation Expansion Free Good Performance Reaction To Fire Class A1

Zinc And Yellow Plated Finish

View the range here

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