Torque Magazine Issue 57

WE ALWAYS THINK IN STAINLESS STEEL

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

120 mm

Our little POWERHOUSE

56 mm

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LIFTING ANCHOR APPLICATION VIDEO

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Publisher Jerry Ramsdale jerry@torque-expo.com Editor Jonathon Harker jonathon@torque-expo.com Staff Writer Liberty Sheldon libby@torque-expo.com

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NEWS

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WOMEN IN FASTENERS > BÜLTE > FANNY BÜLTE

16-52 FASTENER FASTENER MANUFACTURING MANUFACTURING SPECIAL > > SPECIAL 36 PAGES DEDICATED TO THE INDUSTRY’S PRODUCERS FROM GERMANY, ITALY, THE UK, INDIA, NORTH AMERICA & POLAND

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TORQUE TOOLS FOCUS > STAHLWILLE HEADS UP OUR SPOTLIGHT, ALSO FEATURING INSULATED TORQUE TOOLS, STANLEY ENGINEERED FASTENING, SERENCO, GEDORE, RAD, NORBAR AND MATATAKITOYO

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STAINLESS STEEL FOCUS > FEATURING APEX STAINLESS FASTENERS

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TORQUE RISING STARS > WE LOOK TO THE FUTURE OF THE FASTENER AND TOOL INDUSTRIES WITH THIS RUN-DOWN OF UP-ANDCOMING YOUNG EXECS

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SHARE THE LOAD > ANCHORS AND FIXINGS, FEATURING JCP, HECO, FISCHER, KLIMAS & CELO

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APPRENTICE Q&A > TR FASTENINGS

Sales Manager – UK Claire Warman claire@torque-expo.co.uk Sales Manager – International Harry Whyte harry.whyte@torque-expo.com Sales Manager - USA & International Thomas A. Keenan tom@torque-expo.com Circulation Tracy Howell tracy@torque-expo.com Head of Production Luke Wikner luke@torque-expo.com Designers Dan Bennett dan.bennett@torque-expo.com Tina Ries tina@torque-expo.com Victoria Arellano victoria@torque-expo.com

Published by Stag Publications Ltd 18 Alban Park Hatfield Road St Albans Herts AL4 0JJ tel: +44 (0)1727 739160 fax: +44 (0)1727 739169 Email: info@torque-expo.com Web: www.torque-expo.com Disclaimer

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

GUEST EDITOR Barbara Sorgato Secretary General of the European Consortium of Anchors Producers (ECAP)

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Jonathon Harker Editor jonathon@torque-expo.com

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

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

"What is it now?" is the kind of question every wholesaler, importer or supplier could be forgiven for asking since things took an unfortunate turn in early 2020.

Sadly, the answer to that question is, “yet another thing with the potential to upset manufacturing and the supply chain”.

Disrupted energy supplies were perhaps not at the top of our ‘things to worry about’ list of 2021, but news of disruption, insolvent small energy firms and government ministers holding crisis talks have swiftly rung alarm bells. Possibly, by the time you read this, those fears will not have materialised into full blown business-impacting problems, but in a period that seems to have been designed to embody Murphy’s Law (If it can go wrong, it will), you’d have to very much be an optimist to think so. And when a government minister says the immortal words “this is not something to worry about” then you know we are in trouble.

You didn’t come here for me to cheer you up, but on the up side, this once-in-a-generation period of extreme disruption has not proven insurmountable for the fastener, tool and fixing distribution industries. Businesses and personnel have remained nimble, stable and relatively consistent despite all the challenges that have been thrown their way in the last 19 months, and seems destined to remain so, even if there are a few more ‘dificulties’ to brace us yet.

This issue’s Guest Editor is

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Copyright

WHAT IS IT NOW?

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

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

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Unit 4, Alma Industrial Estate, Stafford Road, Wednesbury, WS10 8SX, United Kingdom

GUEST EDITOR COMMENT BARBARA SORGATO, SECRETARY GENERAL OF THE EUROPEAN CONSORTIUM OF ANCHORS PRODUCERS (ECAP) IS GUEST EDITOR OF THIS ISSUE OF TORQUE MAGAZINE

DIGITALISATION AND HARMONISATION IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR The European Regulation on Construction Products (CPR) is currently under review, and one of the key aspects will be the digitalisation of information.

The aim is that all information on construction products is not delivered any longer as PDF files, but become part of the common repository for all relevant building data used for informed decision making and information sharing within the construction sector, among building owners and occupants, financial institutions and public authorities.

The Declaration of Performance (DoP) is not only a requirement before placing a product in the Single Market, but it has become the most important tool to deliver information on the performance of a construction product. DoP need urgently to be accessible in XML format (human and machine readable) from the link included in the CE marking.

This link will allow the use of “smart” devices connected to the internet (mobile phones, tablets, computers, etc) to use this information through internet browsers, applications or software and, finally, BIM models and Digital Logbooks.

In this way, the big investment made by manufacturers to be able to issue a DoP (product tests, factory production control and, particularly for post-installed fasteners, the intervention of third parties such as external laboratories or notified bodies), will be fully exploited.

Barbara Sorgato Secretary General of ECAP www.ecap-sme.org

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That’s why the construction industry is developing XML formats for each harmonised product standard. The European Organisation for Technical Assessment (EOTA) is aware of the challenge, and asked the industry to develop XML files for those EADs that are conceived like standards and deal with a family of products (the old ETAGs). A first draft of XML format for post-installed fasteners (former ETAG 001) has been developed under the umbrella of CPE – the Construction Products Associations with the technical support of ECAP’s members, continuing and strengthening the cooperation started in 2018 with the publication of the CEN workshop agreement CWA 17316.

// The Declaration of Performance (DoP) is not only a requirement before placing a product in the Single Market, but it has become the most important tool to deliver information on the performance of a construction product. //

WE BREATHE FASTENERS

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The SMART S-TB7 through bolts with ETA option 7 for non-cracked concrete NX ^TZW ‫ܫ‬J]NGQJ XTQZYNTS KTW RTZSYNSL NS STS HWFHPJI HTSHWJYJ XZWKFHJX 9MFSPX YT NYX FUUWT[FQ KTW FSHMTWNSL IJUYMX FSI NYX QTSL XHWJ\ YMWJFI YMJ FSHMTW HFS GJ ZXJI NS F \NIJ [FWNJY^ TK FUUQNHFYNTSX .S FIINYNTS YT UZXM YMWTZLM NSXYFQQFYNTS UWJ UTXNYNTSNSL FSI XYFSI TKK NSXYFQQFYNTS For more information: www.pgb-europe.com

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

Goebel to hit new heights with Tower Fasteners EU deal

oebel GmbH has revealed a new partnership with Tower Fasteners EU Ltd as an official authorised distributor for all products & tooling.

The agreement will see Tower Fasteners EU Ltd handle Goebel GmbH product lines including: Blind Rivets, Threaded Inserts, new G‐Grip™ Stainless Lockbolt System, Self‐Tapping/Drilling Screws, Sealing Washers, Drill Bits, Nut Drivers, Over‐ Center Toggle Latches, Hand & Power Tools, PPE Equipment and many more innovative specialty products.

Tower Fasteners was founded by Thomas J. Shannon in 1967 in Mineola, New York and Dublin’s Tower Fasteners EU Ltd is the first European distribution centre opened by the firm. Tower Fasteners also has distribution centres in New England, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, North Carolina, Mexico and Texas.

“Goebel GmbH is pleased to partner with Tower Fasteners EU Ltd to distribute our blind fastening product lines, over‐ centre latches, new G‐Grip™ Stainless Lockbolt System and other product lines

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throughout the Republic of Ireland,” said Marcel Goebel, Goebel Group CEO. “For over 50 years Tower Fasteners has been a leader in the field of fastener distri‐ bution and “C” class commodity inventory management systems. Tower Fasteners EU Ltd is a great fit for our company’s vision and we’re looking forward to working together for years to come.”

Derry Cronin, Key Account Manager, added: “Tower Fasteners continues to set the standard for innovation and excellence in fastener distribution.

Tower Fasteners is committed to providing world class products and services. Each and every Tower employee shares the Shannon family's commitment to total customer satis‐ faction. Partnering with Goebel GmbH and distributing their innovative fastener solutions will help us provide our customers new products that will help streamline their manufacturing processes.” www.goebel-group.com www.towerfast.com

market raising prices by an unsustainable 700% in the last year, it said.

Fastener and tool manufacturer and distributor Rivit Srl joined FERVI Group SpA, with effect from 7 September 2021.

Fervi is a significant player in professional equipment mainly for mechanical and car workshops, carpentry, construction and products in the MRO market, including to professionals and the advanced DIY market segment.

Bufab bought US company Components Solutions Group, Inc (CSG) for US$

26m. CSG is a distributor of fasteners and other C‐class components in the North American market and is head‐ quartered in Dayton, Ohio. It owns three subsidiaries (two in Ohio, one in Kentucky).

Also this summer saw Torque Magazine launch the North America Insights newsletter, providing fastener, fixing and tool news focused on the territory direct to decision maker’s inboxes.

NEWS IN BRIEF

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n August, organiser Mack Brooks ended months of industry speculation with the announcement of a delay for Fastener Fair Stuttgart. The key industry show was officially moved from its November 2021 dates, pushing it back to 21‐23 March 2023, due to the effects of the pandemic.

August also saw BHETA seek an intervention on spiralling shipping costs.

The association called on the Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) to act following the international shipping

www.torque-expo.com

Stainless steel fasteners. ers..

EdelstahlVerbindungselemente.

Standard and non-standard items Norm- und Standardteile DIN, ISO, EN and others / und andere Special parts and special materials Sonderteile / Sonderwerkstoffe

NEW NEU

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rer-shop.co

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

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

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

LET’S GET CONNECTED!

At Scell-it®, we offer to the trade, an extensive range of quality Construction Fixings, Rivets, Rivnuts and Setting Tools at competitive prices. We have large fully stocked warehouses across four locations and offer full technical support with next day delivery*.

So, doesn’t it make sense to get connected?

Connect with us on 01785 246539 or email sales@scellit.co.uk.

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NEWS News from the distribution industry

www.torque-expo.com

PEOPLE NEWS

Aptus Fasteners links with Mike Smith ptus Fasteners has announced an exciting co‐operation with Mike Smith as Sales Agent and Consultant.

Smith brings with him a wealth of experience and an infectious enthusiasm for the fastener market and its prod‐ ucts. He will be involved throughout the UK and will be in touch with customers old and new working alongside the existing Aptus Fasteners sales team.

Mike Smith commented: “I am delighted to be joining Aptus at this most exciting time in their development.

“I have always admired both the Aptus approach to their

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customer base as well as their expertise in the structural timber market. I was surprised how their range has grown which now includes many application focused and approved products. I am really looking forward to visiting some of my old customers as well as meeting new ones to promote the Aptus range.” www.aptusfasteners.co.uk

OGL bolsters senior team as turnover rises to £23.1m

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GL Computer Services Group has fur‐ ther expanded its senior team with the appointments of Charlie Grant (left) and David Jubb (right) in newly‐created roles, as Head of Profit4 Operations and Head of Communications and Information Systems, respectively.

The new hires form part of a senior‐ level recruitment drive across the com‐ pany to capitalise on the business’ strong performance and deliver an ambitious five‐year growth plan.

OGL Computer Services Group, antici‐ pates its employee numbers will increase to more than 300 by the end of 2021. The firm is behind the Profit4 ERP solution that is used widely in the wholesale/dis‐ tribution sectors.

David Jubb’s role as Head of Communi‐ cations and Information Systems will see him deliver growth and investment across the group, specifically through the stream‐ lining and digitalisation of operations.

Prior to his new role, Jubb was Finance Manager at OGL, overseeing the increase in turnover from £20.1 million to £23.1 million in 2020. His first project is the pro‐ curement, implementation and integra‐ tion of a new CRM system.

Another senior appointment is Charlie Grant who brings a wealth of technical expertise to his new role, primarily from his 14 years working across various managerial roles in OGL’s software division, including his previous role there as Development Manager. He will take

responsibility for driving business for OGL’s ERP software, Profit4.

OGL has seen the adoption of its ERP solution jump by over 150% in the last six months of 2020. In his role, Grant will streamline operations and the day‐to‐day management of the OGL Software team and oversee Profit4’s R&D. www.ogl.co.uk

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

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

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STEEL CONSTRUCTION

INTERVIEW WOMEN IN FASTENERS

FANNY BÜLTE

BÜLTE

Fanny Bülte, COO of Bülte talks day-to-day challenges of a family run company, plans for the company’s new website and how Bülte has adapted to deal with the challenges of the Coronavirus pandemic…

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How did you get into the industry?

This industry is a family affair, so it’s only natural that it has always been close to my heart. I remember when I was little, I would help my father assemble screws and nuts while watching TV. My grandfather Norbert Bülte initially started the Company in 1956 by selling washers.

My own father, Stefan Bülte, joined him and took over in 1980.

What does your day-to-day job involve?

No two days are the same and that’s what makes it excit‐ ing and challenging. I’m involved in pretty much all of the departments. From overseeing day‐to‐day operations to assisting our Marketing Department including Human Resources, my role as a COO is varied. Keeping this in mind, I always try to develop our business on a daily basis while remaining focused on customer satisfaction.

INTERVIEW WOMEN IN FASTENERS

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

Needless to say, technology and communications have brought a lot to this industry. We are slowly getting to under‐ stand the full importance of digitalisation in this field.

However, the Covid‐19 pandemic has had an even bigger impact and has pushed us to question our branding and commercial and company strategy even further. In the space of a year, we have seen most of our competitors embrace the new digital sphere beautifully. It is only expected that this has happened, as digitalisation is now crucial for any company.

When I first joined BÜLTE, I was so surprised to see that cata‐ logues were still being printed, in so many languages. One of the biggest challenges we have faced this year as a company is the “Zero‐Paper” project, where from now on, everything will be done via email.

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

I’m proud to say that building up my career in Germany has been a great help to me. Prior to BÜLTE, I worked as a Business Developer which helped me gain experience in efficiency and productivity. Working at the family business has been a joyful rollercoaster! I started as a Sales Assistant and ended up as COO. This has helped me to better understand each and every department within the company, which is a great experience for becoming a respectable COO. I’m glad I have managed to bring change and modernity to the company.

// The growing number of women joining the industry is an asset. // What plans does the company have for the next 12 months?

Our most recent and important project of the year is our website. Following the latest trends in the industry (but also elsewhere), our goal is to digitalise our communications and to be present not only on our website, but also on social media.

We are hoping to slightly rebrand our company to keep it fresh and up‐to‐date. In addition, we aim to improve our corporate responsibility by finding new ways to improve sustainable development such as reducing our footprint and avoiding wastage, but also through our suppliers (i.e. transport service providers) or organisations like the National Plastics Industry Union. We still have a lot to do.

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What is your favourite thing about the fastener industry?

In our wonderful B2B business, we always have the possibil‐ ity of working with any kind of sectors – from automotive, medical or health, to the building sector – that’s what I enjoy the most, seeing opportunities in sectors we have not yet explored. Besides, the fastener industry can continue to evolve through new products such as recycling PPE, etc.

Finally, improving the company’s strategy while adapting to the world’s changes is to me, and above all else, the most important thing in years to come.

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

I haven’t had any negative experiences to date. In some contexts, you may be surprised by the person in front of you, but as in many other professions, men are in the majority, but you have to persevere and find your place. I can only encour‐ age women to come into our industry because they have a different approach to certain problems or situations, which can be very helpful and is often appreciated by our colleagues.

In this sense, the growing number of women joining the indus‐ try is an asset, even though the overwhelming majority of the field is still male.

How does Bülte bring in new talent from a variety of backgrounds? Do you think this is a challenge for the industry?

We have still a lot to do to bring new talent in the company.

Since spoken languages are now a necessity when it comes to having an international presence, we of course are looking for talents that have been abroad and can bring something fresh to the company. But it is definitely a challenge to find employ‐ ees that ‘come out of the box’ while being trained to under‐ stand this field. What we have to work on is the technical aspect of our products. I think it is more important than ever to have employees who can improve their technical skills.

How is the company finding the coronavirus period apart from the economic consequences?

As is the same for every other company, the coronavirus health crisis is complicated in relation to human contact – whether it is with customers or internally. We therefore had to rethink the way we could discuss projects, by offering video confer‐ encing. Beyond that, the situation is difficult for everyone espe‐ cially for the employees who are slowly but surely not able to cope with it anymore. For example, not being able to organise internal events is something that harms overall morale. But we are doing our best to keep them satisfied, hoping that better days will return soon. www.bülte.com

n o i l l i s m w 4 e 3 r c s l a Up to speci ! k c o t s m o r f y l t c e r di www.pasvahl.de

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FASTENER MANUFACTURING UNITED KINGDOM

SMITH BULLOUGH > KEEPING THE MOMENTUM GOING As the Manchester-based bolt manufacturer Smith Bullough experiences a busy 2021, Director Tim Garton speaks with Torque Magazine about the importance of keeping the momentum going…

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ased in Hindley Green, Greater Manchester, Smith Bullough supplies the fastener distribution trade with the largest range of standard and non‐standard special bolts and fastener products in the UK, according to the group.

So far, businesses have experienced a variety of challenges following the coronavirus pandemic and Brexit trade deal. An increase in raw material prices in particular, has left many global companies in a difficult situation.

Tim Garton, Director at Smith Bullough says “The increase has been significant (>30%) from both stockholders and steel mills. As a bolt manufacturer who uses significant quantities of steel in our manufacturing process, we have had to manage a shortage of availability in addition to the price hikes. The UK Steel safeguarding system is another big problem for fastener manufacturers. In the UK to help domestic steel suppliers a 25% tariff on imported steel is levied once imports have reached a specific level. Unfortunately, Liberty Steel (UK) have not supplied the UK market since Q1 of 2021 and 125,000 tonnes of material is lost to UK manufacturers which needs to be filled by imports, if available, regardless of high sales price and possible import tariffs.”

In regard to the Brexit trade deal coming into place this year, Garton says: “Brexit caused a lot of logistics grief. Although better, the situation is far from satisfactory. Costs are increasing.”

Additionally, with an increase in demand post pandemic for special and non‐standard parts, 2021 has been a busy year compared to 2020 for the company. Garton adds “We are fortunate that only a very small amount of our sales go into the passenger car market that endured the Covid pandemic and whose production is now being decimated by the global lack of microchips.”

To help combat the rise in demand throughout the fastener and fixing and tools industries, Smith Bullough has recently added to its thread rolling capacity. Garton tells Torque Magazine: “In the past year we have introduced CNC milling and a large CNC machine with live tooling. These machines complement our in‐house forging capability.”

With important customers also based outside the UK, Smith Bullough will increase its manufacturing capability to match demand and improve customer satisfaction, in a bid to keep the 2021 momentum going. www.smithbullough.com

// In the past year we have introduced CNC milling and a large CNC machine with live tooling. //

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Your reliable partner, even when times are challenging

www.puehl.de

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

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

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

PARTS ACCORDING DRAWING

FASTENER MANUFACTURING GERMANY – SÜDWESTFALEN, ENSE

HEICO SAYS “MADE IN GERMANY” IS CENTRAL TO ITS HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS All HEICO-LOCK® and HEICO-TEC® products will be exclusively manufactured in Ense, North Rhine Westphalia, with HEICO firmly committed to Germany as a production location, thanks not least to the high level of innovation and technology as well as excellent infrastructure...

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ince way back in 1900, the HEICO Group has offered innovative product solutions in the field of fastening and cold forging technology. HEICO products are sold world‐ wide through 14 company‐owned sales branches and an extensive international network of dealers. The company philosophy is clearly defined as “Made in Ense – distributed all over the world”.

As a supplier to the automotive industry and leading compa‐ nies in the energy sector, HEICO is accustomed to high quality standards, so its products like the HEICO‐LOCK® and HEICO‐TEC® series are characterised by top quality and precision engineering.

To reach such a high level of quality requires qualified specialists. With its leading universities in the engineering sector and a unique dual education system, Germany provides a large selection of excellent, capable professionals. The high level of education paired with great innovative strength are advantages for companies like HEICO, which manufacture premium quality products. In fact, typical virtues such as disci‐ pline, reliability, punctuality, precision and efficiency, which have always made “Made in Germany” such a seal of quality, are still present and alive today, it says.

The HEICO headquarters are located in beautiful countryside and offers employees an optimal environment to work and live, the firm says. But besides the rural location, the local infrastruc‐ ture is excellent. Good energy and communication networks paired with a dense transport infrastructure, direct motorway connections and three regional airports in short distance make the location so attractive for HEICO.

Thanks to export-oriented growth, HEICO is expanding with the purchase of new company buildings

The considerable pool of local talent has benefited the HEICO business, it says

// As a supplier to the automotive industry and leading companies in the energy sector, HEICO is accustomed to high quality standards. // HEICO is already investing in its future and at the same time in securing this location. The export‐oriented company has grown immensely during recent years, so much so that larger investment measures have become necessary. With the purchase of new company buildings and further construction work, the fastening technology division will move step by step to its new common headquarters in Ense‐Höingen. The unifi‐ cation of both plants at one location is planned for spring 2022. www.heico-group.com

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

HEICO-TEC® TENSIONING SYSTEMS The simple, fast and reliable way to tighten large bolted joints!

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FASTENER MANUFACTURING GERMANY – SÜDWESTFALEN, HERSCHEID Close-up of the disc during the spring force test

TARGETED TECKENTRUP

teckentrup GmbH + Co. KG facts > Located in Herscheid, Germany Founded in 1938 Family-run 245 employees > 50 million € turnover 3 locations

Backed by an experienced, knowledgable team and 30-plus production lines, teckentrup’s focus includes the automotive sector as well as providing screw locking technology...

T

eckentrup is a medium‐sized, independent family busi‐ ness with over 80 years of technological experience.

Production comprises 32 lines, with development including own toolmaking combined with sorting and cleaning facilities as well as a separate logistics centre. This forms the secure basis for the production and sale of drawing parts for the automotive sector as well as patented screw locking tech‐ nology in the form of the locking washer. teckentrup says that as a locking washer inventor, it has many years of experience in the field of screw locking technol‐ ogy. Thanks to the combination of resilient geometry and toothed surface, the locking element effectively counteracts the loosening and unscrewing of screw connections. In the course of active cooperation in the revision of DIN 25201‐4, a further development of the locking element took place at the beginning of the 2000s: the NSK washer. Due to its specially developed arc shape, a significantly higher spring effect is achieved, so that the more stringent requirements for screw locking elements are met.

Through targeted investments in the area of quality testing, it has been possible over the course of time to acquire in‐house test benches which, among other things, test the functionality of teckentrup's locking washers. These include, for example, the Junker test bench in accordance with DIN 65151 / 25201‐ 4 or the spring force test in accordance with DIN 267‐26. Due to the regular, multi‐stage (internal / external) product tests, teckentrup is in a position to take into account all specific application features and to constantly expand the product range with new, effective locking washers.

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The NSK washer was developed in the early 2000s, featuring a special arc shape

Screw locking technology for electrical screw connections In addition to the screw locking solutions for mechanical appli‐ cations, such as the NSK‐L with its compact outer diameter and high wall thickness for use on standard bores or also slotted holes on steel mating surfaces, teckentrup has developed the latest NSK‐E, a screw locking element that fully meets the specific requirements for electrical screw connections. As a one‐piece screw locking element, the NSK‐E reliably ensures continuous contact pressure between the conductive compo‐ nents and at the same time protects the soft mating surfaces such as copper and aluminium, thus avoiding system failures.

The highly competent teckentrup team will be happy to answer any further questions Torque Magazine readers may have. To get a first overview of the product range including all important details, please visit the homepage and watch its product videos on YouTube. www.teckentrup.net

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FASTENER MANUFACTURING GERMANY – SÜDWESTFALEN, HAGEN

Eurotec’s production expansion in Germany will improve processes and extend its planning horizon

EUROTEC EXPANDS IN-HOUSE PRODUCTION AT HAGEN The German fastener manufacturer is making a strategic move to boost its manufacturing levels in Europe and make itself as independent as possible from third parties – with a view to continue to be a reliable specialist for fastening technology, well into the future…

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s a long‐standing company in the international busi‐ ness with fastening systems as well as products for deck and garden construction, Eurotec GmbH offers its customers professional service and innovative options for a variety of construction projects. With the help of quality‐tested and patented screw solutions, wooden buildings of all kinds and attractive decks are realised worldwide.

Currently, however, there are obstacles which have an impact on many industrial companies – including the medium‐ sized company Eurotec. Whether steel, wood or insulation material: many building materials are currently in short supply, so that prices are rising considerably and supply bottle‐ necks of raw materials are present. For screws in particular, the situation could worsen drastically in the near future. Due to increased overall demand in the Asian region, there are diffi‐ culties with supplies to manufacturers from Taiwan and China.

Raw material bottlenecks, capacity utilisation as well as freight problems are the results here. Especially if the EU continues to impose additional anti‐dumping duties on the import of fasteners from China.

Long-term strategy to ramp up production in Germany In order to guarantee customers the quality and delivery times they are accustomed to in the future, Eurotec is relying on in‐ house production. A doubling of the production area to 6,000m² as well as an increase in modern machinery are planned, which should cover the current demand on the market, says Eurotec. Various high‐performance machines for

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cold forming, thread rolling, pinching machines and notching machines are to find their place there. This will bring not only factory production control, but also numerous new jobs.

Currently, Eurotec provides jobs for around 175 employees.

The expansion of production is planned for spring 2022, which will eventually add another 20 jobs. Among them are also some training opportunities in this field.

The decision to expand production is expected to bring many benefits: The production processes will be improved and the planning horizon will be extended. Production facilities in China or Taiwan and the previous cooperation are therefore to be dispensed within the near future in order to meet customer requirements. This represents only the first expansion step.

Further ones are planned in the coming years in order to be able to cover demand completely with in‐house production.

It should also be noted that climate‐friendly building with wood also continues to be an important topic – after all, wood as a raw material has a clear advantage over cement and concrete in terms of CO² reduction. Nowadays, this material has clearly come to the fore again, particularly as a result of the climate debate. This can be clearly seen in the ever‐increas‐ ing demand for professional fasteners. Solid wood construc‐ tion is to become more present and more important, for which Eurotec would like to make itself as independent as possible from third parties and continue to be the reliable specialist for fastening technology in the future. www.eurotec.team

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FASTENER MANUFACTURING ITALY

GROWERMETAL EXPANDS SAFETY WASHER PORTFOLIO Grower Tenkeep® is the latest addition to the extensive Growermetal safety washers family.

Growermetal takes Torque Magazine through the benefits of this new arrival and the rest of the safety washer range…

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rowermetal is a worldwide specialist in the manufacturing of high‐quality safety washers, offering a wide portfolio of product concepts for different applications when the safety of the bolted joint connection really matters, including: Contact and Sperrkant washers: Conical safety washers with a knurled ring on the surface in contact with the bolt’s under‐ head to secure electrical contacts and connection in electrical cabinets and at the same time allow the transmission of the current. Growermetal’s contact wash‐ ers are manufactured according to NFE 25‐511 and Siemens SN 70093 standards.

Electrical terminals: Small square or rectangular ribbed washers for electrical switches and other electri‐ cal components, these parts are widely used to keep electrical connections intact, retaining the elec‐ trical cables so they won't slip out from under the screw head.

Ribbed flat washers: Flat washers with radial ribs and serrations on one or both surfaces, used in several bolted joint connections in automotive applications, such as car body, engine, gear‐box and other car and truck components, espe‐ cially in the presence of soft bearing surfaces (i.e. aluminium and plastic).

Grower Twin-Lock® wedge-locking washers: a These safety washers offer high‐ power performance when working in pairs to secure bolted‐joint connections in several applications where there is the presence of severe vibrations and dynamic loads, such as power generation, oil & gas, railway, machinery, construction and transportation. Grower Twin‐Lock® wedge‐locking washers utilise tension in order to secure bolted joints, thanks to the wedge created underneath the bolt head. The tension generated in the body of the screw makes it impossible to loosen the bolted connection unintentionally, says Growermetal. Grower Twin‐Lock® wedge‐locking washers are sold by Twin‐Lock AB sales company.

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Grower Tenkeep® safety washers: The latest in Growermetal’s safety washers family, Grower Tenkeep® is a single high‐power flat washer having the two surfaces with knurls of different geometry, specially designed to ensure maximum performance against loosening of the bolted joints, even in the pres‐ ence of extreme vibrations and dynamic loads. The working princi‐ ple is based on friction, with higher loosening torque needed to untighten the bolt compared to the tightening one.

The side of the washer on the head of the screw side slides against the surface of the under head of the bolt when tight‐ ening the bolted joint. The advanced serration geometry of this side instead counteracts very efficiently against the loosening of the bolted joint connection.

The side of the washer which is in contact with the bearing surface becomes immediately solid to the bearing surface when the bolted joint is tightened, thanks to the exceptional grip of its knurling. These features allow three main technical advantages: The friction conditions are defined and uniform, not depend‐ ing on the material and on the mechanical characteristics of the bearing surface.

During tightening and untightening the Grower TenKeep® washer doesn’t slip and therefore doesn’t damage the bearing surface.

The untightening torque is significantly higher (+40% mini‐ mum) than the tightening one.

Several technical solutions are available with different performances, working principals and costs, adapted to differ‐ ent applications and technical needs, all manufactured at Growermetal in Italy, applied with the highest levels of know‐ how and attention to the geometrical, mechanical and coating features. All products undergo rigorous testing to ensure they strictly perform to specifications.

The production toolings, a key factor of a safety washer’s qual‐ ity, are all manufactured in Growermetal’s in‐house tool shop, allowing its products to reach the highest possible standards of performance: “If you’re experiencing a bolting issue where safety really matters, you can rely on Growermetal’s expertise suggest you the most efficient and cost‐effective solution.” www.growermetal.com

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Duplex & Super Duplex • Exotic Materials & Alloys Heat Resistant Materials • Stainless Steel • Carbon & Steel Non-Ferrous • Standard Bolting Grades 4.6, 8.8, 10.9, 12.9 Petrochemical grades B7/L7, B7M/L7M, B8M-1, B8M-2, B8-1,B8-2, B8T-1, B8T-2 Rapid Industrial Fasteners Manufacturing Hub 27 Lye Valley Industrial Estate, Stourbridge DY9 8HX Telephone : 0121 501 3903 Email: manufacturing@rapidfast.com www.rapidfast.co.uk

FASTENER MANUFACTURING GERMANY – SÜDWESTFALEN

BÄCKER REVEALS €1.7 MILLION MACHINE INVESTMENT BÄCKER has made a sizeable investment in its machines this year, modernising around a third of its machine park. The manufacturer tells Torque Magazine about its new capabilities and the expanding PlacoGrip Control Elements product range...

How is business?

Despite the pandemic, 2020 was the best‐selling year in the company’s history. 2021 has also got off to a very good start so far. We are well above our budget.

We are very broadly positioned with our product portfolio and benefit from our independence from individual industries.

The greatest challenge during the pandemic is the supply of raw materials and rising material prices. Again and again we receive “Force Majeure” messages in which the raw material producers limit or stop their deliveries. Prices are extremely unstable and difficult to predict. This situation will probably last well into next year.

What kind of markets and sectors do you typically serve?

Our range of standard parts comprises a total of three product groups. These are PlacoGrip® – operating elements (clamping levers, different types of handles, hinges), PlacoTec® – stan‐ dard elements (plastic screws, nuts, washers) and PlacoCap® – protective elements (protective and cover caps).

We deliver to various markets and industries. We supply wholesalers from the fastening and fastening industry as well as end users. Industries include electrical engineering, medical technology, mechanical and plant engineering, automotive, leisure and sports equipment, the plumbing industry and rehabilitation technology.

Our extensive product range of standard items includes over 5,000 items in a total of 23,000 different variants and dimen‐ sions; From 0.04g to the 800g injection moulded part.

In addition, we also produce special parts made of plastic, including to customer designs.

BÄCKER underwent a huge modernisation programme for its machine park earlier this year

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The PlacoGrip Control Elements product range has been expanded with three quick-release systems Can you give us an overview of the PlacoGrip Control Elements product range?

Our PlacoGrip operating elements product group includes clamping levers, locking bolts, a wide variety of handle vari‐ ants, handwheels, hinges, adjustable feet or vibration dampers.

These products are used wherever fastening, clamping or adjustment is required.

We always focus on the needs of our customers and have just expanded the product group to include three quick‐release systems. Vertical clamps, horizontal clamps and push rod clamps are very easy to use and have high clamping forces of up to 2,500 Newtons. The clamping height is infinitely adjustable here with an almost constant clamping force.

You’ve recently invested in new injection moulding machines – what kind of difference have these made?

In April of this year, we modernised around a third of our entire machine park and replaced it with new, more powerful and – above all – more energy‐efficient injection moulding machines. The investment totalled €1.7 million. The raw mate‐ rial supply for the plants was also brought up to date. The material is now transported to the machines by means of a vacuum suction device, making it much quieter and also filter‐ ing the dust from the raw material.

The background to the modernisation is that the new machines can produce around 1.4 seconds faster per stroke, so a 20‐25% higher output is possible. We can now inject plas‐ tic parts up to a weight of 800g.

By investing in technology and continuously improving our processes together with modern machines and systems, we see a positive future ahead. www.baecker.eu

FASTENER MANUFACTURING UNITED KINGDOM

COLD FORMING EXPERTISE

AND INVESTMENT AT BARTON COLD-FORM Barton Cold-Form, the UK manufacturing division of Optimas, recently spent $3.6 million on machinery and technology upgrades. Torque Magazine visits the Droitwich site to see the upgrades in person and speaks with Mike Tuffy, Optimas’ President-International…

Mike Tuffy, Optimas’ President-International

The Nedschroef Nedform Hybrid NH515 Cold Forming machine is one of a number of new additions at Optimas’ UK manufacturing hub

T

he recent multi‐million‐dollar investment in the Barton Cold‐Form manufacturing facility is significant, and the latest in a long line by owner Optimas.

Optimas was created in 2015 after investment group Amer‐ ican Industrial Fasteners acquired Anixter Fasteners. The newly minted Optimas was soon to turn its attention to manu‐ facturer Barton Cold‐Form.

“More or less the first thing we did was invest in the Barton Cold‐Form business,” Mike Tuffy, President – International, tells Torque Magazine.

After receiving feedback from customers that they wanted Optimas to invest ‘ahead of the curve’, Optimas saw how the factory could give it a strategic foundation for growth.

“We were questioning how best we could work with OEMs on design engineering at the front end; Working with them on applications, through to prototyping, problem solving, then going onto serial production – all within one facility.

“In essence, getting everything done within a local area is

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great for the carbon footprint and for speed to market, which of course is important for our customers. $3.6 MILLION FOR MACHINERY & TECHNOLOGY UPGRADES Optimas’ most recent investment has seen it substantially increase capability and capacity at Barton. Its cold heading, secondary ops and thread rolling machines have been bolstered with the addition of advanced Nedschroef NH518L and NH515 five die cold formers, Smart NG W40 SEMS thread roller and a Smart NP 24‐DD pointing machine.

The Nedschroef cold heading machines enable production of fasteners with an increased range of dimensions – between 6‐175mm length, 2‐18mm diameter, and in even greater volumes, yielding upwards of 7,000 fasteners per hour.

The Smart Machinery NG W40 thread roller and NP 24‐DD pointer, both capable of handling a wide range of sizes, complement the Nedschroef cold formers by offering increased levels of speed, reliability and quality.

FASTENER MANUFACTURING UNITED KINGDOM

Tuffy explains: “I don’t want Optimas International to be a manufacturing business. We are a distribution business and manufacturing augments what we do.

“We supply thousands of customers with hundreds of thou‐ sands of SKUs. We get the fastener to the point of use, for when customers need on the assembly line. We sort out all the supply chain idiosyncrasies, on time, in full, every time.

“We have some fantastic suppliers which we partner with around the world and now with state‐of‐the‐art machines at Barton, we have the make vs buy option in the company.

“With Covid, the supply chain is completely strained. We import a lot of product from all over the world and that has proven a challenge. There is container disbursement, lead times are out significantly because manufacturers are so busy, landed costs are significantly higher… that has been a challenge for the whole marketplace.

“We look at the total cost of acquisition, not the unit cost. Many of these recent higher costs look set to continue, so being in control of our destiny really helped this investment make sense.”

And there’s that lead time factor too, he adds: “Having the option to blend, or make a proportion and dual source helps give our customers continuity of supply, which is obviously really important.”

Because the new machines perform a number of operations, there are benefits there too, Tuffy adds: “That is where the customer wins and we do too. Our customers appreciate the saving and from a quality point of view the process is more repeatable.”

ENGINEERING SOLUTION The machine investment allows Optimas to produce more fasteners in the UK, however the firm aims to offer an more comprehensive service for its customers.

The machinery investments include a high‐performance Takamaz XY 120 Plus CNC bar turn machine, helping Barton provide everything from integrated engineering and rapid prototyping to quality testing capabilities.

Mike Tuffy picks up the theme. “Design engineering is important for us. How do we get the right part for the right product? How do we make sure the joining is correct?

“We have experts in manufacturing and distribution, includ‐ ing people working at customer sites. Our teams work together to problem solve. That is a big sell for our customers.”

Aaron Milborrow is Barton Cold Form Operations Director. He tells Torque Magazine: “We’ve got everything from 3D printing to bar turning to full production. It gives customers the opportunity to change their mind on a design. If they see an issue they can tweak this or that before they go into full set of tools for produc‐ tion. We have that ability and that gives the customer confidence.”

Barton Cold‐Form’s biggest customer is Optimas distribu‐ tion, but it also sells to third parties which want to deal direct with the manufacturer.

Mike Tuffy adds: “The best thing about our business is if our customer wants fasteners delivered every hour to their assem‐ bly line, then Optimas distribution can handle that.

“We can supply fasteners in direct line feed, Just In Time, through distribution channel, we can also supply weekly or monthly bulk deliveries from either manufacturing or distri‐ bution. We can offer the right fit for the customer. We bring further significant value to our customers by simplifying the complexity of the supply chain with additional SKUs to complete a full bill of materials, currently we have over

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The latest tranche of investments has included smart machinery, like the new generation flat die thread roller W40 EV1 100,000 live parts. We work with thousands of suppliers who can help fulfil those other areas including MRO. That can be anything from gloves, glasses, PPE, we can do all that.”

GROWTH POTENTIAL Optimas sees plenty of potential, including in sectors where it is a relative unknown, as Tuffy explains: “Within our marketing and lead generation, we have been very automotive or OEM focused, and we are looking to diversify that. There are different industries with people that have never heard of us. When we open a door then we can show them that all these other components they need can be cold formed, using less material and saving them cost.

“Our mindset is premier league automotive companies, but not every market has the same needs. We need to understand what areas cause customers pain and the different routes to market. Pain points might be something like they are buying components in the Far East but they can’t get them over with‐ out putting them on a plane for five times the cost. When they ask ‘can you help me with this problem, what can we do for lead times and can you help with this engineering challenge?’ that is music to our ears. Yes, we can help. If you are working on total cost of acquisition then we can help you.”

Targeting different markets – including electrification, renew‐ ables and general industry – Optimas is also working hard on sustainability and continuing to grow capacity and expertise at Barton Cold‐Form, which isn’t always straightforward in a coun‐ try where there is a limited amount of cold forming going on.

“In the past we have picked up machines from struggling businesses and the people too, even when we may not have had the work for them, at the time. Realistically they would have left the industry otherwise and their knowledge would have gone out of the industry.”

With 80‐plus years of history added to by those joining the firm over the years, Barton Cold‐Form’s knowledge, expertise and expertise in fastener manufacturing is considerable.

“Some of the people working here have spent all their life making fasteners. We are proud of them and the product we are making here in the UK, for the UK and also for export.

“There are some fantastic cold forming companies in the world, not that many in the UK. We aspire to be as good as a number of them and we believe we are as good as many. That’s our challenge – we will continue to push our business.

“It’s a challenge for our people too, we come to them with these projects and ask them ‘can you do this?’. And they can, they relish the challenge.” www.International.optimas.com

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Available from: Aptus Fastener Systems Ltd, Salterwood Drive, Denby Hall Business Park, Denby, Derbyshire, DE5 8JY, UK Tel: +44 (0) 1773 740 410 Fax: +44 (0) 1773 740 417 Email : sales@aptusfasteners.co.uk Web : www.aptusfasteners.co.uk

FASTENER MANUFACTURING GERMANY – SÜDWESTFALEN, PLETTENBERG

STREAMLINING PRODUCTION THROUGH DIGITALISATION Washer manufacturer Güde discusses the importance of placing emphasis on lean logistics, its personalised packaging solutions and manufacturing abilities with Torque Magazine…

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lettenberg‐based washer manufacturer Güde is an “A1” supplier within the fastener industry and produces safety washers, wire bended parts as well as screw and spindle fastening devices exclusively on self‐made machines and toolings.

The original machines at the company’s production facility work continuously for 24 hours to inspect the product with computer aided supervision. CEO Lutz Güde comments on the importance of this technology saying: “We need the latest tech‐ nology to be competitive when it comes to pricing and to ship products with the highest quality standard.” This comes in handy, as the company sees up to 140 pallets of products shipped to its customers every day.

Additionally, supplying directly to wholesalers and distrib‐ utors, Güde’s manufacturing abilities and packaging options remain at the forefront of the business. Furthermore, the company always has large raw‐material stocks to ensure the availability of its products.

As 70% of Güde clients have their own individual options and are trading companies, Güde is able to put into practice its state‐of‐the‐art machinery. The department ensures that pack‐ aging of products is as customer specific as possible by allow‐ ing items to be boxed in the customers’ chosen individual option with bespoke quantities.

In connection with Güde’s special label solutions, the customer’s specific label can also be applied to the packaging.

This enables the production line to be more streamlined as it avoids multiple unnecessary packaging processes and reduces total procurement costs. Combining the packing and stock possibilities, Güde guarantees a minimum lead time.

Continuously working towards ‘lean logistics’, IT services began to develop in the business through the use of barcode solutions which are used in all Güde logistic processes. Not only does a modern IT system react faster but by diminishing human error, it improves reliability and accuracy.

In addition, the company also uses an EDI (electronic data interchange) system with many top clients. It aims to enable a more efficient communication path between the company and its customers as it allows them to communicate informa‐ tion electronically including purchase orders, invoices and shipping notification. When discussing the company’s system and digitalisation, Lutz says: “With such a high degree on IT dependency used at Güde, we are more like an IT company with additional production.”

As the world is slowing beginning to return to normal, the company is looking forward to showcasing the exciting work happening at Güde in the coming year. www.guede.net

// We need the latest technology to be competitive when it comes to pricing and to ship products with the highest quality standard. //

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FASTENER MANUFACTURING

Spezialfabrik für Schraubenund Wellensicherungen

GERMANY – SÜDWESTFALEN

BÜLTE TAKES OVER THE FASTENERS’ DIVISION OF WERIT Bülte’s latest acquisition strengthens its position in the Eastern and Northern European markets

Sperrkant spring washer A/Z

DIN 6905 captive

DIN 127 ASME B18.21.1 A/B RSHQ À DW

DIN 128 A/B convexed / corrugated

B

ülte Group, which has been active in the manufacture of plastic fasteners and protection products since 1956, is now extending the scope of its activity by acquiring the specialised plastic fasteners division of the company Werit in Germany.

Negotiations were concluded at the end of June 2021 between Mr Schneider (Werit), Mr Stein (Werit) and Stefan Bülte, President of the Bülte Group. The acquisition repre‐ sents “a strategic turning point in Bülte’s business policy and a new direction for the future”.

Railway washers

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

DIN 74361 limes type conical lockwasher C

Centring ring

Sperrkant spring washer captive

Doubled toothed lock washer DIN 6797 A/I/V outside / inside / countersunk

DIN 6798 A/I/V outside / inside / countersunk

DIN 7967 row 1 / row 2

Güde GmbH Dieselstraße 8 58840 Plettenberg Germany 33

Contact washer NF E 25-511

Sperrkant washer S/M/B/K/Z slim / medium / wide / toothed

With this investment, Bülte is expanding its tooling range which will enable the company to further improve both quality and manufacturing efficiency. It will also strengthen its position in the Eastern and Northern European markets.

Bülte will continue to maintain its current production facilities, mainly in Germany, thus maintaining and confirming its “made in Germany” criteria for ever greater quality, flexibility and reactivity.

Like Bülte, the Werit Group is a family‐owned company with production sites throughout Europe. Founded in 1949 by the engineers Wilhelm Schneider and his son Helmhold, the company with its headquarters in Germany is celebrating its 72nd anniversary this year. Another similarity to Bülte, which is celebrating 65 years of continuous existence this year. Specialising in thermoplastics for injection moulding and blow moulding technology, Werit will concentrate on its other business areas. The Bülte Group will further strengthen its market position in the field of plastic fasteners by taking over a long‐standing market companion.

torque-expo.com

DIN 137 A/B curved / crinkled

DIN 7993 A/B for shafts / for drillholes

// The acquisition represents a strategic turning point in Bülte’s business policy and a new direction for the future. //

www.bulte.com

DIN 6796 conical washer

+49 2391 - 91 90-0 sales@guede.net

www.guede.net

FASTENER MANUFACTURING NETHERLANDS

100YEARS

DON QUICHOTTE > NAIL GIANT LOOKS TO THE FUTURE WITH BROADENING RANGES 100 years young, De Wit with its trade brand Don Quichotte has become among the very biggest players in the nail market, but there’s still space to expand with the Don Quichotte brand and OEM with its De Wit-Concept as well as through its broadening product line-up. Torque Magazine speaks with Sales Director Jan-Willem van der Wijngaart and Product Marketing Manager Naj van Galen…

The full package: The De Wit side of the business offers OEM products, while the Don Quichotte brand covers nails and an increasingly varied product range

W

hen it comes to hardened steel nails or masonry nails, Don Quichotte is a name that is difficult to ignore. It’s hard to be unequivocally certain, but Don Quichotte is possibly the biggest hardened steel nail manufacturer at its quality level. It exports to over 70 countries and has a healthy and still growing nail business including the supply to some of the best‐known names in the industry.

So, how did Don Quichotte get to where it is today?

NAIL NARRATIVE Back in 1921, the company was founded by Johannes Hubertus de Wit and it has been making nails ever since that year. Back then, the company was known as Ned. Kleinijzerwarenfabriek Jan de Wit. Manufacture was largely centred on standard nails, however by the 1950s and ‘60s, nails were starting to become a commod‐ ity and it was becoming ever harder to achieve good margins. So, the company‐owning De Wit family opted to introduce hardened steel nails, which can be directly used in concrete.

The savvy milestone move paid off. These types of highly specialised nails required a lot of know‐how and expertise for

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the precise hardening process. The firm established itself as an absolute expert in the field.

That pivotal move saw the firm, then known as J.H. de Wit & Zonen B.V., grow its international reputation, with expanding interest from abroad for its range. The company name was not so easy for global customers to wrap their tongues around, so the decision was made to smooth international marketing with a new trade brand name that overseas companies could handle: Don Quichotte.

The name was coined by the son of Mr J.H. De Wit, who stumbled on a statue of Don Quichotte made out of steel wire on a Paris market. He fell in love with the statue of Miguel de Cervantes’ titular hero and visitors to the company HQ can still find the name‐inspiring statue at the entrance.

The De Wit name endures for the OEM side of the business.

Sales Director Jan‐Willem van der Wijngaart tells Torque Magazine: “Private label products is an area that has been growing for us. We’ve worked with customers in the UK with private label products for many years, including some very well‐known fastener suppliers, but we’re now seeing this business in standard nails increase in other territories too.”

The company’s manufacturing experience dates back to the 1920s and the move to focus on hardened steel nails was a watershed moment

Another pivotal moment in Don Quichotte’s development came around 25 years ago with a step into the electrical sector.

Van der Wijngaart reveals that the firm was supplying nails to the sector and soon saw the opportunities to add selected plastic products to the line‐up. So, the firm diversified into plastics and combined products like nail anchors (Speedplug), cable clips and other products for that market.

“We have grown rapidly in the sector and we’ve built our cata‐ logue massively. It’s the fastest growing area for the business and we’re developing marketing and new product ranges. But hard‐ ened steel nails are our history and is still very important for us.”

Nails, then, remain core. The firm currently produces a stag‐ gering 10 million nails per day, approximately.

Nevertheless, the product expansion saw Don Quichotte expand its sales channels and as it grew, relocation became a must and it moved to a new business park in Helmond in 2004.

But while the firm is celebrating its big anniversary this year (naturally, celebrations are trickier in 2021 than they were prior to 2020) the emphasis is very much on the present and future, rather than basking in the glories of the past.

Modern investments at Don Quichotte include cobots and a high rise warehouse (pictured)

PACKAGING, ROBOTS & THE ENVIRONMENT One of Don Quichotte’s more recent projects has centred on packaging. In 2016, it invested in three new packaging lines and embarked on a unified packaging concept for continuity of branding in its expanding product line ups and categories. 2017 saw it install a new plug & pack bag packaging machine to continue the project.

Other investments for the future of Don Quichotte has seen cash put into a high‐rise warehouse and the addition of cobots (collaborative robots). Robots have helped tackle the kind of tricky recruitment challenges facing many economies, not least for repetitive tasks, freeing recruitment to focus on bringing people in for demanding logistics roles, including order processing and picking.

The environment is ever more in focus too for the ISO 14001‐ certified company. Product Marketing Manager Naj van Galen tells Torque Magazine: “We are heavily invested in corporate social responsibility. In terms of the environment, we have been looking at things like heat regeneration, packaging, LED lighting and reducing waste, among other areas.” And making the production process more energy efficient is a win‐win for the environment and company costs.

With its presence in the nail market well established, Naj van Galen also states that Don Quichotte is aiming to achieve a similar level of status for its electrical installation business. With that in mind, the company launched a brand new slogan “worker’s choice”, focusing directly on workers and installers, and also through its new social media channels on Instagram and LinkedIn. With a successful century of business behind it, it might have been tempting for Don Quichotte to spend its anniversary year looking back and celebrating its triumphs and innovation – and fortitude in the face of 100 years of challenges like the pandemic. Don Quichotte is, however, keenly eyeing its future opportunities (including a recent subsidiary and warehouse in Germany specialising in cable routing and trunking products) and responsibilities to the planet. Find out more at: www.dewit.group www.don-quichotte.nl

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FASTENER MANUFACTURING INDIA

UNIVERSAL PRECISION SCREWS ON COURSE FOR A RECORD YEAR

UPS supplies high quality fasteners to famous global brands

High-end Indian Fastener company UPS caters to the industrial, automotive and aerospace markets and is on course to achieve record revenue of €30.5 million in 2021…

U

niversal Precision Screws (UPS Lakshmi) started off in 2006 as an 100% export‐oriented unit. As time moved on, UPS also started to build up custom in the Indian market. Today, UPS has become one of the best‐quality and high‐strength fastener manufacturers in India with 630 employees and an export‐to‐domestic sales ratio of 74:26. It was awarded “Export Excellence 2016‐2017” by the Engineer‐ ing Export Promotion Council of India.

Certificates and capability to cover general and high-end industry demands UPS’ core expertise lies in producing safety critical fasteners for all the segments it services. In 2017, it acquired the IATF16949 certificate, an upgrade from TS16949. Besides automotive fastening components, UPS services the wind energy, aerospace, nuclear, power generation and industrial markets. UPS has the following certifications ISO, IATF, OHSAS, PED, CE. Particularly for aerospace applications, UPS follows AS 9100D Standard and all special processes like heat treatment and nondestructive testing are NADCAP‐approved.

“UPS has all manufacturing and testing facilities in‐house for manufacturing fasteners and machining components,” says UPS Vice President Amit Jain. “Our lab is ISO17025‐approved and our production is flexible. We can produce a small number to a million pieces of parts per our customer requirements.”

UPS plans to top its previous sales record (set in 2019) this year

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World-class clients Jain explains: “UPS supplies directly or indirectly to Suzuki, Honda, GE, John Deer, BMW, VW, Ford, Honeywell, Borg Warner, Mando, Advics, Dana, Rafale, HAL, ISRO and DRDO, among other renowned clientele. We installed top‐class machining centres with five axis controls which can ensure Zero PPM and industry‐leading parts production.”

UPS currently supplies to Europe (accounting for 43% of its business), the Americas (24%) and Asia (33%).

New sales milestone UPS achieved sales of EUR 27 million in 2019. This year in 2021 it is targeting EUR 30.5 million and this will be highest sales yet in UPS history.

UPS says its strengths are in producing defect‐free products with flexibility and fast turnaround times, competitive prices and customisability.

“We want to highlight that our major strength in export is in the supply of shoulder screws and dowel pins where we stand as a world leader and we can supply in a wide range with short lead time.”

For more details, contact Amit Jain, Vice President, via Customer@upsind.com or amit@upsind.com

FASTENER MANUFACTURING GERMANY – SCHRAMBERG

SCREW PRODUCER HECO TALKS EXTRAORDINARY CHALLENGES Achim Carstanjen took on management of the HECO business in July 2019 and has overseen the company through expansion, the transformation of HECO’s wood screw programme and of course the Covid pandemic. Torque Magazine speaks with the HECO boss about supply chains, digitalisation and passing on know-how and expertise through the HECO academy…

// In Europe we have long term proven partners and we work to make their life and business as simple as possible for them. The growth demonstrates that there is huge potential for our partners and us. //

How’s business compared with pre-pandemic times?

HECO experienced the last 18 months of Covid very differently compared to previous years. After the first Covid shock in spring 2020 we developed new abilities of cooperation inter‐ nally as well as with our partners. Furthermore, we noticed a continuous higher demand, especially since the end of last year. Now, summer 2021, it is the first time that we have returned to a “new normality”.

During Corona‐time HECO had to master three extraordi‐ nary challenges: a) digitalisation and through this new forms of collaboration due to Covid‐related spatial separa‐ tion of the HECO teams, b) market launch of our new wood screw generation HECO‐TOPIX‐plus® and of the stainless steel concrete anchor MULTI‐MONTI‐plus® Edelstahl and c)

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last but not least, dramatically increased demand of our products in regards to tense supply chains. Today we are very proud that we mastered these challenges in a good way and could demonstrate our ability to reach our targets even in these uncertain times. It allowed us to show to our part‐ ners our adaptiveness, flexibility and reliability, which, from my personal point of view, was and is only feasible as a local European producer.

We are proud that none of our colleagues got infected by Covid within HECO and we really offer safe jobs. To our part‐ ners we could offer continuously high availability of our prod‐ ucts, even under the pre‐condition of stressed supply chains and a complete transformation of our wood screw programme which we will have finished by the end of this year.

Schraubenhersteller > HECO’s two plant production strategy sees it manufacture in Germany and Romania One of the positive results of Covid is that we learnt to co‐operate virtually and to transfer our know‐how from our engineers to the shop floor by new means of communication.

From my perspective this was only possible by a deep common understanding of our team and our HECO culture. A proven result is the celebration of the 25th anniversary of our MULTI MONTI range – just in time the new stainless steel range with an ample assortment was placed in the market giving our dealers the opportunity to always offer the right products to interested users.

There’s much concern over the supply chain right now. Do you feel that as a European manufacturer you have more control over your destiny and are not as severely affected as others may be? How are your production plants developing?

Today, we are able to produce the majority of our products in two plants giving us additional safety in case of supply problems.

The Romanian plant has grown to nearly half the size of our German plant. Our strategy is to develop and test all the products in Schramberg, Germany and to produce according to production capabilities in the German or Romanian plant. In Romania we’ve observed a significant higher cost increase than in Germany, but in absolute figures there is still an ample difference.

The two‐site concept combined with our Schramberg logistics centre allows us to offer high availability, flexibility and quality of our products for reasonable prices. At the moment we are investing in a new packaging and logistic area in Romania which will be inaugurated by the end of the year.

What kind of opportunities are you working on? Expansion of reach to new countries? Has Brexit made it harder to deal with the UK? As European producer we concentrate clearly on the European market. And talking about Europe, it is not limited to the EU, but includes UK and Switzerland. In regard to the UK, Brexit did not really affect us. In Europe we have long term proven partners and we work to make their life and business as simple as possible for them. The actual growth demonstrates that there is huge potential for our partners and us.

Heco has worked closely with SFS for a number of years.

What kind of advantages does that give you and your customers?

From SFS we took over the whole timberwork area. We are now serving SFS as the competence and production centre for timberwork and masonry and concrete products. On the other hand, we receive valuable feedback from the SFS organisation for further product improvement and innovation.

Can you tell us a bit about the HECO Academy? Has it been operating online through these times of Covid?

In our strategy the HECO academy plays an important role. We learnt from the past that it is quite difficult to communicate the advantages of features of a screw to the user and final buyer. By that our HECO academy gets a strategic role to share knowledge and expertise, and it is not only one way, but in both directions. Did you know that HECO Magic Close feature allows you to use shorter screws to reach the same results as applying usual screws? Or our Grip Fit feature permitting one hand appliance of the drilling machine and screw? You have to experience this live. Last year, we started our online sessions and for the future we will offer the whole range of online, offline and hybrid events. We like to inspire our partners by proving the application abilities of our products. Besides the academy, our Technical Support provides advice in particular on demand by phone, internet or on site to our customers.

What are your ambitions for Heco over the next two years?

In the next two years we further improve our processes. Covid and the turbulent market situation gave us important hints what we have to do and where we can still reach further improvement. Of course, we are working on new, innovative products in both areas, timberwork and masonry and concrete. I cannot reveal further details at this moment as it is still too early. I will make one final point: HECO will work to strengthen its role as an innovative and reliable screw producer for our European partners. www.heco-schrauben.com

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SPOTLIGHT

PART-ON TOOLS REVEALS EXPANDED SERVICES AND SHOWROOM Part-On Tools’ brand-new showroom, developed with long-term partner FAR, is just one of a number of exciting developments paving the way for future growth. Torque Magazine reports from the showroom’s opening event…

W

ith over 50 years’ combined experience in the tool industry, Birmingham’s Part‐On Tools sells, services, repairs and maintains rivet tools and fastener tools for production lines and more.

Part‐On’s brand new showroom opened this summer, with the ribbon being cut at the official launch by friend and supporter of Part‐On Tools, Pete West, from the Department of International Trade at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce. Long term‐associates FAR joined in with the launch from Italy, via Zoom, including FAR General Manager Massimo Generali and Export Sales Manager Pierluigi Cassani.

Part‐On Tools firmly believes in the importance of relation‐ ships, and few relationships have been as integral to the Part‐ on family as the one it has with Italian rivet and tool manufacturer FAR. To emphasise the point, Part‐On’s brand

Part-On Company Director Chris Parton

// We’re not just selling a tool, we also look at how it fits into a customer’s processes. //

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new dedicated showroom has a wall displaying pictures of the manufacturer, including company trips to see the Italian firm.

The relationship between Part‐On Company Director Chris Parton stretches back two decades and it was FAR that helped Part‐On Tools in its early days, swiftly signing it up for an account.

Part‐On’s relationships with its customers are just as important, however, which is why Part‐On has been signifi‐ cantly enhancing its services and processes, including with the new showroom.

TRAINING, SHOWROOM & ADVICE HUB Located in the easily accessible heartland of England’s indus‐ trial Midlands, Part‐On Tools’ new fully fitted showroom allows for hands‐on demonstrations of FAR’s full range of fastener setting tools and fasteners. It’s also available as a

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SPOTLIGHT

FAR’s full range of hand and power tools as well as semi- and fully automated systems are available via Part-On Tools

// Part-On Tools’ new fully fitted showroom allows for hands-on demonstrations of FAR’s full range of fastener setting tools and fasteners. // training academy, providing in‐depth Total Productive Main‐ tenance training for production line staff and tool servicing.

Customers can come and view the full range of hand and power tools as well as semi‐ and fully automated systems. In future the showroom will also serve as a launch space where customers can see and trial new tools and fasteners.

It’s also a hub for Part‐On to help customers with their appli‐ cation challenges and pass on expertise and technical advice on the best processes and tools for their assembly.

Part‐On has 50‐plus combined years of experience in fasteners, fastener tools and applications of virtually every possible configuration, from those requiring 2.4mm aluminium rivets to M10 stainless rivet nuts. Part‐On also has familiarity of the product ranges across all fastener brands it can impart to customers.

FABRICATIONS, AUTOMATION & PRODUCTION LINE SERVICE Offering servicing, repair and maintenance is core to the Part‐ On business, however an exciting new development has seen it begin to offer production line builds from simple worksta‐ tions to complete production lines including lean and clean work accessories. The firm can provide complete, bespoke automated multi‐head machine builds to include process control and production flow improvement.

“It’s not something your average fastener supplier can offer,” explains Company Director Chris Parton: “We’re not just sell‐ ing a tool, we also look at how it fits into a customer’s processes. We can be a production partner, providing work‐ stations that are specified for customers.

“We can help them with ergonomics for the rivet tool users, creating jigs and fixtures… Anything that helps the company.

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We want to make it simple for them.”

“There are FAR machines with some more advanced options, but FAR equipment is affordable and not over engineered. We can get spares on the shelf quickly with fast turnarounds that help keep production lines running.”

Firmly believing in service first, sales after, Part‐On is prov‐ ing to be a progressive business that is focused on improving itself. In the last 12 months it has brought in a Behavioural Consultant, begun developing staff through weekly training sessions for sales staff as well as its engineers, and it is paying off already: “We’ve seen a change in the staff. The team are engaged and there is real energy in the company,” Chris Parton tells Torque Magazine. “We’re driving them to do more and see what they are capable of.”

At the showroom launch event, FAR General Manager Massimo Generali and Export Sales Manager Pierluigi Cassani told Torque Magazine of their pride at what Part‐On had achieved and also how FAR’s products are suitable for a variety of applications: “Automotive has been busy with the conver‐ sion to electric, but we work across general industry and are not reliant on any one sector. We are very diversified.”

FAR added that there had been new investments in logistics as well as new products developed over the last 12 months – developments that will no doubt filter through to Part‐On customers in due course.

As Part‐On and its customers begin to make full use of the new facility and its new products and services, the firm clearly has an ambitious growth plan with service at the centre as well as those all‐important relationships with suppliers and customers. Find out more at the official site: www.part-on.co.uk

FASTENER MANUFACTURING

ADVERTORIAL

FAR > MANUFACTURING QUALITY FASTENERS & TOOLS SINCE 1957 PRODUCTION & QUALITY > FAR is one of the most consolidated firms in the manufacturing of fasteners like blind rivets and blind rivnuts in Europe and worldwide. With a large fleet of more than 115 machines for rivets and rivnuts, production and quality are two of the key words for its daily working operations.

Thanks to careful technical controls, from the acceptance of raw materials, precise machine settings and checks on single batch outcome and packing formats for traceability reasons, FAR has been certified ISO 9001 by TUV.

FACTS & FIGURES > 100% made in Bologna, Northern Italy > 20,000 sqm Production Site > 16,500 sqm of Production Facilities > Rivets, Rivnuts, Tools and Automations > Up to 350,000,000 Rivets produced per year > Up to 100,000,000 Rivnuts produced per year > Up to 50,000 Tools & Automation units per year > Market distribution in 75+ countries > Over 145 Dedicated Employees

BLIND RIVETS > FAR produces more than 600 standard items together with a wide selection of structural and high performance blind rivets. Structural blind rivets are designed for applications requiring high vibration resistant solution and great clamping power, allowing fast, easy and safe installations.

BLIND RIVET NUTS > FAR produces more than 200 standard items in metric threads sizes from M3 to M12 supplied with knurled bodies, to provide better grip and high resistance.

FAR > Fasteners are first‐class only and widely used in industrial applications like electrical appliances, metal works in construction and architecture and cabinets, solar cells, roofing,

windows and doors; in the automotive and commercial vehicles especially where safe and secure connections are essential; in logistics, food processing, ground support equipment and maintenance in the aerospace sector.

TOOLS > Thanks to its wide experience in different fastening technologies and applications, FAR supplies a wide range of more than 40 tool models which includes manual, hydropneumatics and battery operated tools.

AUTOMATION > Bologna is among the capital towns of industrial automation worldwide and FAR plays a significant role in designing and customising automated systems targeted at high volumes and high productivity for end users.

// Ready-made stock of fast-moving items are readily available for delivery within a few days. //

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5-STAR SERVICE FROM FAR Logistics Service – fast and effective Technical & Training Service Customer Care Service New Fasteners Customisation Service Quality Service For TECHNICAL ENGINEERS interested in designing new applications in various projects and industries, from 2021 FAR will allow full access to its electronic catalogue of fasteners in cooperation with the CADENAS portal. Both rivets and rivnuts are available in 3D CAD models both before and right after installation, for the most precise project rendering.

WHY CHOOSE FAR? Over 60 years of solid experience in fasteners Quality and competitive prices – FAR’s first priority Consistent stock availability of fasteners today Short lead-time on key items WWW.FAR.BO.IT is one of most professional sources of technical information for end users, engineers and salesmen. Contact the FAR Export department to request a quotation. www.far.bo.it

FASTENER MANUFACTURING SWEDEN – MATTMAR

UPGRADING NORD-LOCK’S ORIGINAL WEDGE-LOCKING TECHNOLOGY A 64% expansion in its production facility in Mattmar, Sweden, has given Nord-Lock the opportunity to level up and optimise production further…

// There will be 100% heat recovery from production that we'll use to heat the building. Plus, all incoming energy is from renewable local sources, such as wind and hydropower. //

N

ord‐Lock Group has become a global leader in engineer‐ ing and bolting technologies, backed by the confidence of stable and long‐term owners, investment group AB Latour. Reflecting on the past 18 months, Nord‐Lock’s Division Director Anders Manfred says that despite facing challenging circumstances, they’ve been able to “continue an investment programme with full speed, thanks to a green light from Latour.”

Since 1982, Nord‐Lock has been developing original wedge‐ locking technology, starting from a small red barn in the forests of Jämtland, Sweden. Today, a stone’s throw from that very same barn in Mattmar, there sits a proudly renovated production facility that was expanded from 5,300m2 to 8,700m2 during the pandemic.

From here, Nord‐Lock Group distributes the trusted wedge‐ locking washers on the market to every corner of the world. Product manager Daniel Eriksson says: “We’re manag‐ ing margins of thousandths in our production, so of course precision is crucial to meet the tolerances we have for both cleanliness and tools.”

The 64% increase in space helped to facilitate several key process improvements, each one part of an investment pack‐ age that has levelled up the control and precision of manufac‐ turing superior wedge‐locking washers. Now a high‐tech facility, Nord‐Lock benefits from more efficient production lines, new machinery, better automation and a bigger premises for optimised workflows.

“Variation between Nord‐Lock wedge‐locking washers was already very low, now it’s even lower,” says Eriksson.

Residual oil from the stamping process can cause problems in the following steps, so Nord‐Lock upgraded its cleaning facility. Now it provides a better work environment, a higher quality clean and zero waste.

There are more profound developments too, with the area’s year‐round cold environment now channelled into Nord‐Lock's

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cooling system, reducing the need for electricity. “There will also be one‐hundred percent heat recovery from produc‐ tion that we’ll use to heat the building. Plus, all incoming energy is from renewable local sources, such as wind and hydropower,” adds Eriksson.

“This is a scenic and clean location for a high‐tech industrial company that also sets high standards: The only things to leave Nord‐Lock are clean water, carbon dioxide and the highest quality wedge‐locking washers on the market.”

New generation furnaces achieve much lower variation between washers during hardening, a process that is crucial to ensure the mechanical function of Nord‐Lock's wedge‐lock‐ ing technology, making it impossible for the product to loosen unintentionally.

Eriksson also considers the coating process to have been perfected with the installation of a new line. Coating now requires less chemical volume to achieve the same corrosion resistance and simultaneously giving a more even coating thickness with lower variation between washers.

Washers now last twice as long in the Neutral Salt Spray Test (according to ISO 9227) before any signs of corrosion occur.

In turn, Nord‐Lock promises what it says is the highest corro‐ sion resistance on the market and guarantee at least 1,000 hours of corrosion protection.

On reflection, Anders is full of praise for his colleagues.

“Expanding a factory in any circumstances can interrupt busi‐ ness, so to complete these upgrades against the backdrop of covid‐19 without causing delay to our customers, it’s a huge credit to our remarkable team.”

After a record investment year Nord‐Lock emerges with more productive, safe, and sustainable manufacturing. For the customer, this means delivery of even more consistent, durable, and secure wedge‐locking washers that are available worldwide. www.nord-lock.com

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www.obtec.eu

FASTENER MANUFACTURING NORTH AMERICA – NEW JERSEY

ZAGO > “SOURCING HAS ALWAYS BEEN AN AREA OF STRENGTH” ZAGO Manufacturing Co. CEO and Co-Founder Gail Friedberg Rottenstrich discusses the state of the industry and the company’s plans for the next twelve months...

T

orque Magazine speaks with Gail Friedberg Rottenstrich, CEO and Co‐Founder of Newark, NJ‐based ZAGO Manu‐ facturing Co., about how ZAGO is meeting increasing demand for its high‐tech sustainable sealing fasteners.

What began as a specialty sealing solution for the military and defense is now critical in myriad industries, including robotics and drones, electric vehicles, manufacturing, LiDAR and others.

ZAGO seal screws, seal nuts, seal bolts and seal washers differ from standard fasteners. They are engineered with a custom groove under the head of the screw (face of the nut/washer) that when combined with a rubber O‐ring and tightened, squeezes outwardly to form an impenetrable, 360‐degree seal. This leak‐ proof seal prevents contaminants (i.e., oil, water, gas, chemicals, air, moisture, dust) from entering and damaging high‐asset equipment or leaking out into the environment.

With the onset of Industry 4.0, coupled with the coronavirus pandemic, the demand for ZAGO high‐tech sealing fasteners (Made in the U.S.A / Buy American Act compliant) has accel‐ erated. These sealing fasteners protect sensors, electronic components and the data stored on them from contaminants.

“Business this year has been extremely robust continuing a growth trend that has been on an uninterrupted trajectory for

the last five years,” says Friedberg. ZAGO has been planning for this rise in production capacity through a combination of automation, robotics, and upskilling talent.

Regarding rises in raw material pricing, Friedberg reports that ZAGO is less impacted by these costs as sourcing has always been an area of strength. “ZAGO is never reliant on only one or two vendors for raw material, but rather can draw from a wide range of vendors, enabling us to negotiate the best possible pricing for ZAGO and our customers,” says Friedberg.

Another area where ZAGO sealing fasteners are in demand is alternative energy and recovery. In addition to sealing out contaminants, ZAGO corrosion and pressure‐resistant sealing fasteners protect and optimize the performance of offshore wind turbines, solar panels, and fixtures, especially those operating in harsh environments and extreme temperatures.

When it comes to planning the next 12 months, according to Friedberg, ZAGO will continue to increase its production capacity to meet increased customer demand. “ZAGO is both driving and meeting the demand for more resilient, automated equipment to meet current and future challenges,” notes Friedberg. www.zago.com

// ZAGO is both driving and meeting the demand for more resilient, automated equipment to meet current and future challenges. //

ZAGO leak-proof sealing fasteners prevent contaminants from entering and damaging equipment or leaking out into the environment.

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NSK-E EFFECTIVELY AND PERMANENTLY SECURES ELECTRICAL SCREW CONNECTIONS

IN THE ELECTRICAL INDUSTRY – LOOSE BOLTED CONNECTIONS INEVITABLY LEAD TO SYSTEM FAILURE Common causes for the failure of an electrical screw connection are...

Loss of preload due to increased setting amounts Loosening of the connection due to vibrations Damage to the conductor materials and chip formation

THE SOLUTION TO THESE PROBLEMS IS THE NEWLY DEVELOPED NSK-E FROM TECKENTRUP...

Surface coating with high corrosion protection and defined coefficient of friction Protection of the counter-surface due to the specially moulded skid shape Easy to assemble due to one-piece screw locking solution Curved-spring geometry minimises settling and creep phenomena, even with stainless steel due to increased material thickness Retention of pretensioning force and continuous contact pressure with soft materials Positive locking effect underneath the bolt head or nut due to further developed serration on the washer surface LEARN MORE AT...

Teckentrup GmbH + Co.KG | Elsetalstr. 6-10 | 58849 Herscheid | Germany +49 (0) 2357-90 80 0 | info@teckentrup.de | www.teckentrup.net

Future through Quality, Precision and Innovation

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FASTENER MANUFACTURING UNITED KINGDOM

INTRODUCING

PERRY PRO Pitched as the only multi-purpose wood screw you need, Perry Pro is a brand new range from A Perry…

N

eatly plugging the gap between high performance wood screws and every day woodscrews, the new Perry Pro range from A Perry certainly doesn’t compro‐ mise on performance or quality for those in the trade or home DIYer, says the brand.

Having the right kit in the toolbox is critical and with the Perry Pro multi‐purpose woodscrew, the 1,000 piece set comes in its own attaché case and an assortment of five variants.

Perry Pro is a new Grip Fit Pozi Head wood screw for increased torque without cam‐out that is also available in a DIY pack as well as refill packs with industrial use quantities.

Each woodscrew features both a countersunk head for a flush finish as well as being a ribbed head for improved coun‐ tersinking across a multitude of construction and DIY uses.

// The launch of Perry Pro comes on the back of a successful roll out of our highest performing wood screw to date, TENZ from PERRY for the professional tradesman. // Developed to target the experienced end user without the need for the more stringent use screw like the alternative and award‐winning TENZ from Perry range; Perry Pro still retains all the characteristics and benefits of a professional wood screw to tackle projects in need of high performance.

Steve Perry from Perry Trade says: “The launch of Perry Pro comes on the back of a successful roll out of our highest performing wood screw to date, TENZ from PERRY for the professional tradesman.

“Having successfully penetrated the sector with TENZ, we needed to address the gap in the market for a top performing wood screw at a more appealing price point for the needs of those that aren’t necessarily professionals or in the trade. Perry Pro perfectly captures that market and by offering this in the bespoke attaché case too, it’s a perfect addition to the home DIY kit.”

Perry Pro also comes with a type 17 sharp point for easy insertion meaning no pre‐drilling is required.

For more information visit www.perrytrade.co.uk or call the team at A Perry on 01384 414001. www.perrytrade.co.uk

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Perry Pro fills a gap in the A Perry range and the market

FASTENER MANUFACTURING

TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS

FOR THE SELECTION OF A CIRCLIP “Whatever the requirement, there is a circlip to meet it.” So says Rotorclip, which takes us through the technical factors to take into account when making your selection…

I

t’s challenging to develop economical designs that reduce weight, size, raw materials, and labour. Circlips (retaining rings, snap rings) hold components in place whilst accom‐ plishing these goals. Knowing which is the best ring for each application will contribute to the overall effectiveness and economy of a design. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a circlip for your application: Groove Depth & Preparation Most circlips require specific grooves to perform as designed.

Groove walls should be parallel to one another while being perpendicular to the axis of the shaft or housing. When a load is applied, it creates a lever action against the loaded groove wall. Under extreme loads this can lead to deflection of the ring and ultimately to failure – even more likely to fail when the incorrect ring type has been used.

Standard vs. Inverted Lugs Where loading conditions call for maximum groove engage‐ ment, basic circlips will be the best choice. However, where load isn’t critical, but lug protrusion may cause an interference problem, preference should be given to inverted rings.

Inverted ring designs are often used in low load capacity appli‐ cations where aesthetics or compatibility are the main criteria.

The two styles are interchangeable as far as groove dimension is concerned.

Basic vs. Heavy Duty For significant loads a reinforced circlip will out‐ perform the non‐heavy type due to the larger section, lug shape and thickness, all able to remedy instances of fatigue failure.

For radially installed circlips, where space is at a premium and loads are small, a crescent “C” Ring is usually the best choice.

E‐Rings are ideal for higher loads and offer a larger abutment area for retaining, reinforced E‐rings functions best for applications character‐ ized by high vibration, RPM and cyclic loads.

Bowed & Beveled Circlips Circlips can also be used to compensate for accumulated toler‐ ances or wear in the assembly and exert pressure between and against retained parts. Bowed rings can flatten under specified loads and will return to the initial height when the load is decreased and removed. When the ring is flat it exerts a counter‐ load in a similar way as a spring, offering endplay take‐up and producing a compressive force to reduce chatter and vibration.

For Beveled Circlips the ring’s spring characteristic is taken advantage of within its own plane. The 15° bevel on the groove‐side of the ring acts as a wedge between the groove wall and part, which locks rigidly, unlike the bowed ring which may deflect under load.

Although bowed rings offer greater endplay take‐up than beveled retainers, beveled rings offer rigid endplay take‐up and should be considered where cyclic loads occur. High rota‐ tional speeds do not work well with beveled circlips.

Self-Locking rings for applications without grooves Self‐locking rings are used on shafts or within bores without grooves and have a flat rim that supports moderate static loads. The prongs, or teeth, resist counter‐pressure by digging lightly into the shaft. These single use rings can only be installed in one direction and are destroyed upon removal. An external grip ring can move in either direction and its position can be adjusted after installation, this style is more suitable for applications where components may have to be disassem‐ bled for repair or maintenance.

Whatever the requirement, there is a circlip to meet it. At Rotor Clip we can work with you to find the ring that performs accord‐ ing to your specifications and delivers the expected economies. www.rotorclip.com

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FASTENER MANUFACTURING UNITED KINGDOM

BÖLLHOFF: 360° JOINING TECHNOLOGY Fastener producer and distributor Böllhoff has a presence in 24 countries and access to large stocks of both standard, and not so standard, parts, providing reliable supply even in these trying times…

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öllhoff is a partner for 360° joining technology with assem‐ bly and logistics solutions worldwide. As a family‐owned company it has been standing for long‐term success through innovative capacity and local presence since 1877.

More than 3,000 employees continuously shape the future of joining technology – both at its headquarters in Bielefeld, Germany, and in its subsidiaries around the world. As a result, despite the considerable challenges faced due to the Coron‐ avirus pandemic, it was still able to achieve a total turnover of around €545 million in 2020.

“Our wide range of products extends from standard screws in a wide variety of materials and finishes (according to DIN and ISO specifications) to special fasteners and assembly systems.

“Our extensive supply into the European rail industry means that we have access to the type of products that are widely used in the UK rail industry too. Products such as Vargal® nuts, SKM & VSK locking washers, NORD‐LOCK® washers, RIPP LOCK® products, Sealing Plugs, PARRYPLUG® and Geomet® coated prod‐ ucts are all available from our comprehensive stocks in Germany.

“Brexit has meant that our deliveries into the UK are now treated as Export, however our experienced logistics depart‐ ment handle the necessary paperwork so that deliveries to our customers in the UK are as smooth and as fast as possible.”

// Our extensive supply into the European rail industry means that we have access to the type of products that are widely used in the UK rail industry too. //

Bollhoff still offers a five/seven‐day standard UPS service for shipments up to 70kgs. Express services are available at extra cost, while palletised deliveries are handled by its part‐ ner Dachser and take around two weeks.

If required, Bollhoff is able to consolidate orders and ship either to a regular schedule, or to the customer’s individual requests. It can also hold dedicated stock for larger orders and deliver to an agreed schedule.

“In these current times of material shortages and delivery uncertainty, Böllhoff remain a strong and reliable supplier with large stocks of both standard, and not so standard, parts in an enviable range of materials and finishes.

“Call or e‐mail our UK sales team today, to find out if we are able to help you with your metric fastener requirements.” www.bollhoff.co.uk

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BÖLLHOFF TAKES US THROUGH THREE KEY RANGES...

RIPP LOCK® For more than 10 years, RIPP LOCK® has been ensuring secure screw connections. Our customers rely on the high reliability and economical advantages of this product range. We are constantly reviewing the solution to many applications and so the RIPP LOCK® product family is constantly expanding.

SEALING PLUG In many applications, hydraulic or gaseous media flow through channels and holes.

The permanent and safe sealing of such holes is of particular importance. This is where SEALING PLUG is used. These plugs can withstand operating pressures of up to 500 bar. So, if you need to permanently close holes, then SEALING PLUG offers a wide range of solutions for your application.

PARRYPLUG® The unauthorised dismantling of screw connections on machines and systems can potentially cause high risk situations. With the PARRYPLUG®, a locking element for internal drives, you can protect your systems quickly and easily. The PARRYPLUG® is inserted into a screw drive through the magazined handling aid and separated by turning. The dismantling of the locking elements is only possible with an appropriate tool. This makes PARRYPLUG® a safe and versatile protection against unauthorised removal of socket screws.

Passion for successful joining.

4

On continents

24

In countries

43

At locations

Over

1,934,000

load carriers handled per year

31,000,000,000 Over

fasteners sold per year

Logistics area over

28,000 m²

in size

Phone +44 .(0).1902.603934 bdirect@bollhoff.com www.bollhoff.co.uk

On average

5,500

deliveries a day

Up to

435

tonnes of incoming and outgoing goods per day

FASTENER MANUFACTURING GERMANY – SÜDWESTFALEN

GWI > PROFESSIONAL PARTNER FOR THE FASTENER INDUSTRY

GWI is the German agent of Wintwire Ltd, a UK manufacturer of specialty wires

GWI’s service team has an established place in the market

Cold heading wire specialist GWI discusses its affiliated company Märkische Forming Tools (MFT) and its role as the German agent of Wintwire LTD with Torque Magazine...

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WI GmbH, a specialist in cold heading wire, has been in business for a quarter of a century, operating out of Iserlohn, North‐Rhine Westphalia, Germany.

Originally known as a distributor, the company is now recognised as an agent and manufacturer, offering a wide range of products and services for European cold headers.

GWI’s service team, also in charge of maintainance, repair‐ ing, and overhalls of cold heading and thread rolling machines, has an established place in the market. At the beginning of the company’s founding, the team’s main job was repairing, but this now includes modifications to customers‘ requirements. This means that GWI customers will have an overhauled machine which is more suited to their needs and is more cost‐efficient.

Affiliated company Märkische Forming Tools (MFT) is contin‐ uously growing and is becoming more and more popular. The group has invested in new equipment, such as the purchasing of another machine for hard turning operations.

In August 2019, GWI became the German agent of Wintwire Ltd, a UK manufacturer of specialty wires including stainless steels, nickel alloys, ferrous and non‐ferrous metals. The company experienced its best ever year during the pandemic and has now registered a 7‐figure turnover in Q1.

Ben Turner, Managing Director, says: “The company has completed its first year after a management buyout (MBO) and has outperformed all of the forecasts, on top if this, we have started the new financial year with huge growth. The demand for our product continues to soar as our uniqueness shines. With the in‐house ability of pickling, batch and strand annealing, drawing, rolling, cutting, spooling and copper coat‐ ing it is easy to see why.”

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Furthermore, Wintwire Ltd has recently won a share of a £1.2M Innovate UK Smart Grant. The consortium faced an extremely competitive bidding process for the grant, coming up against other groundbreaking research and development projects.

The grant will fund an R&D project based on High Productivity Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (HPWAAM). The process known as WAAM, is the combination of an electric arc as heat source and wire as feedstock (raw material), to 3D print large scale components for industries such as mining, oil and gas, aerospace, construction and engineering.

Turner adds: “The success rate of such applications is as low as a few percent and with the current climate the number of applications was very high, which is a testament to the unique value of this project. Wintwire has just recorded a record year despite the pandemic and has the potential to be catapulted to huge levels of growth on the back of the project.”

“Being Involved with such a powerful consortium is an amazing opportunity to deliver ambitious technology targets and drive the wide‐spread adoption of Additive Manufacturing” Although the actual market situation is facing a variety of challenges, Wintwire is offering acceptable lead times. www.gwi-iserlohn.de

Ma rkische Forming Tools (MFT)

KNOW-HOW TO

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POWER

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Our 40-year experience meets 4.0 modern production capability, to satisfy requirements of any highly industrialised field.

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Whether standard or upon customer drawing, high quality screws are our business.

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www.mecavit.it

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TORQUE FOCUS TORQUE TOOLS

STAHLWILLE > SHARING EXPERT TORQUE KNOWLEDGE With 150 years’ experience of hand tool development, Stahlwille has gathered generations of essential expertise and experience in the field of tool systems and intelligent torque technology…

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ccuracy is everything when it comes to torque wrenches. If you want to avoid defects and problems on the production line, garage or anywhere else, ensuring that the correct torque is applied to bolted joints is vital, not least in safety critical applications. Thankfully, Stahlwille is aware of the pitfalls and helps customers avoid them with some carefully crafted solutions.

FLEXIBLE ROD REDUCES USER EFFORT For example, traditional mechanical compression spring wrenches have a disadvantage in that users must remember to reset them to zero (or the smallest value that can be set) after use, to prevent the spring from becoming deformed – or risk the wrench inaccurately measuring torque.

Stahlwille has cleverly designed this problem out with its unique Flexible Rod system, which does not contain a spring.

By jettisoning the spring, Stahlwille’s Flexible Rod doesn’t just provide a more reliable torque application (particularly when switching between torque settings) but also provides a longer service life, saving money for customers.

What is the Flexible Rod system, you ask? It uses a time‐ honoured principle that if the lever (in this case the flexible rod) is short then more force is required to overcome the resis‐ tance. The user moves the setting slide to modify the position of the counter bearing and in doing so changes the effective length of the lever arm (the Flexible Rod), thus increasing its resistance. A specific force is needed to overcome the resistance, which depends on the torque that has been set.

As soon as this point is reached, the switching element will be able to continue to travel and will produce both an audible and tactile signal – or “click”. Crucially, the tool components automatically return to their unloaded positions after the user ceases to apply force, avoiding the need to manually reset to zero, reducing errors and reducing user effort.

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GETTING THE RIGHT ANGLE FOR SAFETY-CRITICAL APPLICATIONS While accuracy in torque assembly is always important, for certain industries and instances with safety critical applica‐ tions, precision becomes ever more vital. In these instances, it’s not just the torque applied that is controlled. Torque‐ angle tightening is where the fastener in question is to be rotated through a predefined angle after the snug point (or pre‐load torque threshold) has been reached. The snug points and angles are calculated prior to assembly so they can be applied repeatedly for bolted connections under constant conditions.

// While accuracy in torque assembly is always important, for certain industries and instances with safety critical applications, precision becomes ever more vital. // Reproducing clamping forces exactly is the aim of the game, this is where Stahlwille steps in with a solution for this complex process.

Stahlwille’s MANOSKOP 714 is an angle‐controlled torque wrench. It has four measuring modes; torque, angle (with torque pre‐load), torque backed up by angle and angle backed up by torque. What’s more, this electromechanical torque wrench uses Stahlwille’s cunning electromechanical technology,

ACCURACY – FROM START TO FINISH. STAHLWILLE torque technology. No matter whether it is efficient torque wrenches, precise testing or calibration technology you need, STAHLWILLE has the solution for every requirement. To find out more, visit www.stahlwille.de.

TORQUE FOCUS TORQUE TOOLS Peek inside: The Flexible Rod system is used in Stahlwille’s mechanical wrenches for a more reliable torque setting...

so not only does it provide precise, electronic tracking but also the classic ‘Click & Slip’ of mechanical torque wrenches.

The tightening action is evaluated visually on the high‐res OLED display and lateral LEDS – and is also indicated acous‐ tically. The MANOSKOP can also log tightening actions which can be downloaded for evaluation and analysis, and complex fastener settings and sequences can be pre‐programmed for selection by the operator.

...meanwhile, Stahlwille’s MANOSKOP 714 is an angle-controlled torque wrench, using Stahlwille’s electromechanical technology.

NEXT LEVEL TORQUE: INDUSTRY 4.0 WORKPLACES AND NETWORKABLE TOOLS DAPTIQ is Stahlwille’s label for interconnectable systems; tools that communicate with each other as well as with the controlling and monitoring systems of the work environ‐ ment. Benefiting customers and users with greater efficiency and capability, Stahlwille’s smart solutions are geared up for digitalisation and Industry 4.0, with error proofing and safety continuing to be the name of the game.

In practice, this means the user doesn’t have to fiddle with settings and can concentrate on the task in hand with the likes of Stahlwille’s MANOSKOP 766 DAPTIQ angle‐controlled torque wrench. Production runs more efficiently, human error is minimised, training requirements are reduced, and a consistent high product quality is achieved through the clever tech.

We’ll have more on this next level smart torque technology from Stahlwille in the November issue of Torque Magazine.

In the meantime, Stahlwille has an online knowledge portal – named Spectrum – explaining the topics in this arti‐ cle (and more) in far greater depth. Find that at: www.stahlwille.de/en/news/spectrum

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MAIN OFFICE Via Bellardi, 40/A - 10146 Torino - ITALY Phone +39 011 707 23 98 +39 011 707 08 77 www.fixi.it - info@fixi.it

TORQUE FOCUS INSULATED TOOLS

TOOLING FOR EVERY LIVE ELECTRICAL JOB With electrification being implemented into ever more spheres of life, Insulated Tools has invested to produce tooling for all live electrical jobs, from electric automotive maintenance to offshore oil rigs and more…

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nsulated Tools Ltd was founded in 1965 and has been manufacturing insulated tools in Great Britain via a unique injection moulding process ever since and are said to remain the only company in the world to do so. Over the years the equipment and tooling have changed but the mission remains the same; make the longest lasting, hardest wearing, and safest insulated tools.

The world’s thirst for electricity is growing at a rapid rate and Insulated Tools has responded: “We have taken action by invest‐ ing in new product development and plant and equipment which allow us to provide the tooling solution for every live electrical job, from offshore oil rigs to electrical vehicle maintenance.”

Insulated Tools’ new range of innovative insulated torque wrenches are designed to ensure that the correct torque is safely applied to live connectors, fixings and fasteners.

Each torque wrench is individually tested to 10,000 Volts for

three minutes to ensure it complies with the international spec‐ ification for live line working, IEC60900. When coupled with Insulated Tools’ injection moulded range of sockets and accessories you’re fully protected up to 1,000 Volts, whether you’re installing underground cables or maintaining DC batteries, you’ll be safe.

With a newly designed handle, Insulated Tools’ torque wrenches enable repetitive use whilst providing maximum comfort for the user. As well as being easy to use, each wrench comes with an increment gauge meaning each live fixing or fastener can be accurately installed.

To discuss the range in greater detail please either call one of the team members on +44 (0) 1342 324 255, or email at enquiries@insulatedtools.co.uk or visit the website... www.insulatedtools.co.uk

// Insulated Tools’ new range of innovative insulated torque wrenches are designed to ensure that the correct torque is safely applied to live connectors, fixings and fasteners. //

Live work: Insulates Tools’ range can cope with a wide range of electrical jobs

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TORQUE FOCUS SCS CONCEPT ®

Industrial Bolting

“KNOWLEDGE IS THE KEY TO OUR SUCCESS”

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

SCS’s Freedom4 Quality

U

nderstanding physics, materials and solutions is an indispensable fundament of tightening technology.

For years, SCS Concept has worked as an expert, actively help shaping some key technical rules, studying the problems on the field and proposing new solutions. Theo‐ retical, technical and regulations skills has been shared with its global partners throughout.

“Knowledge is the key to our success,” says the business.

SCS Concept delivers either consultancy for tightening aspects and training at different levels depending on the user.

It has developed a vast set of theoretical education modules and practical trainings for threaded joints, assembly processes and the respective quality assurance. Training is always target‐group‐specific: assembly line to management level, construction and quality assurance department, planning, laboratory, operator on the production line.

Contents include: joint analysis and yield point, joint relaxation, screw friction, torque and angle measurement principles, tightening strategies, quality control methods, statistical process control (Cm/Cmk, Cp/Cpk, control charts), tool testing, calibration and more. Beyond the technical issues, regulations and norms are always involved: ISO standard, IATF, VDI/VDE. SCS Concept introduced its first electronic torque and angle wrenches in 2007. With the partner company Q‐Direct GmbH, now SCS Concept Deutschland GmbH, attained DKD accreditation (Dakks) according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025.

In 2021, it is a company with over 150 employees worldwide, certified ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, offering customers a wide range of torque/angle wrenches for production, quality & lab, data collector / analysers, rotary & static transducers, test benches, software, calibration and service, including customised solutions.

It operates globally in all prime vertical markets: Automo‐ tive industry, aerospace industry and general industry, as an advanced partner for all things that concern tightening and quality control.

24-7 Emergency Service www.GoASF.com

info@GoASF.com

CLINCHING FASTENER SPECIALIST Main Products: • Clinch & Sheet Metal Fasteners • Self-Clinching Nuts, Standoff, Studs • Welding Studs and Standoff • Cage Nut • Rivet Bushes • Brass Inserts for Plastics • Rivet Nuts • Customised CNC/Cold forming hardware.

Strengths: • Produced in China • IATF 16949 Certificate • PPAP and IMDS free • Optical Sorting 100% • Full range of clinching fasteners

www.scsconcept.com

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t: +86-139-2920-4841 e: zhuyb@grandametal.com w: www.grandametal.com

TORQUE FOCUS TORQUE TOOLS

HOW BATTERY POWERED TOOLS ARE RESHAPING THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY Cut the cord: Industry is increasingly looking towards battery powered power tools, but what do companies need to consider when choosing between a pneumatic tool and a battery powered tool? Stanley Engineered Fastening is here to help…

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e’ve been living in unusual times, so the likes of Stan‐ ley Engineered Fastening (SEF) have been wisely leveraging their communication platforms to bring their knowledge to a wide audience, including SEF’s recent webinar taster session, named ‘Cut the cord’.

The webinar session – which is still available to watch online – tackles how battery powered tools are reshaping the manu‐ facturing industry.

“We are seeing a significant shift in the use of battery tools,” explains Chris Magson, European Commercial Director at SEF. “We are seeing more and more manufacturers turning from pneumatic tools to battery tools. Innovations have brought lighter, more powerful tools with longer lasting batteries.

“We’re also seeing more distribution partners gearing their aftersales service to this growing market.”

That traditional adherence to pneumatic production tools is loosening as more sophisticated hand tools become even more cost‐efficient and competitive, says SEF. Magson also notes the environmental advantages: “There is increased focus on carbon neutrality and renewable energy sources continue to be a hot topic. Therefore it makes sense for companies to have possibil‐ ities to identify energy saving opportunities and the switch from energy‐intensive pneumatic tools to battery power tools is one of those opportunities.”

Stanley Engineered Fastening has recorded a significant shift in industry toward battery tools

Watch the webinar at https://bit.ly/3u8nKpl Other factors behind the trend include significant growth ahead for markets that clearly favour remote working, includ‐ ing solar energy and wind power, as well as innovations in tools that now offer increased repeatability, more accurate torque and the beginnings of smart tool services.

Among the numerous advantages of battery power tools over pneumatic is they are less power hungry

THE END IS NIGH FOR PNEUMATIC TOOLS? With other factors such as battery power tools being easier to maintain than pneumatic, you’d perhaps be forgiven for assuming the days are numbered for pneumatic tools. Not so, argues SEF, which predicts future and growing demand for pneumatic tools, just not at the level of battery power tools (which will grow at around 2‐3 times the market rate, it reckons). Predicting evolu‐ tion, not revolution, SEF will continue to offer pneumatic tools.

SEF is part of Stanley Black + Decker, the world’s largest tool company. DeWalt is its biggest brand with what it says is the world’s largest battery platform, producing tens of millions of batteries and with large established professional user bases in every large market in the world. Benefitting from that battery tech, SEF has significant scale and battery expertise to leverage in its tools.

The ‘Cut the cord’ webinar also covers trends, assembly line productivity, and a demo of recent tool launches Stanley Engi‐ neered Fastening, including the NB08‐18 Battery Powered Blind Rivet Nut Tool, the PB2500 Smart Rivet Tool and the SB25PT‐05 Battery Powered Speed Fastening Tool. www.stanleyengineeredfastening.com

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TORQUE FOCUS TORQUE TOOLS Serenco’s cordless torque multiplier is among its quality tool solutions

SERIOUS TORQUE Serenco already has customers for its quality tools in 55 countries, but the firm is now ready to take another step in its ambitious growth plan...

S

erenco Nederland B.V. is an ambitious supplier of tools and equipment for the international industry and auto‐ motive (mobility) sector.

From its distribution centre in Utrecht, in the Netherlands, Serenco supplies quality products to a growing group of loyal partners, spread over 55 countries worldwide: “We are known for our expertise, flexibility, excellent service and fast deliveries from stock. By listening carefully to our customers, we have been able to build a strong, and still expanding, range of inno‐ vative tools for the professional user. With these products, excellent people, and ground‐breaking marketing we are fulfill‐ ing the growth ambitions of our partners.”

SERIOUS RESULTS, SERIOUS SUPPORT Serenco believes in helping craftsmen and women improve their efficiency while working safely with high‐quality tool solutions: “We aim to consistently support our long‐term wholesaling‐ and OEM‐partners in growing their business in their own national markets. We do this through excellent service, sharing of know‐how, product training, operational flexibility, stock deliveries and partner‐marketing support.”

With long‐term partners and its own organisations in Europe, Asia (Taiwan) and USA, Serenco has logistic, procure‐ ment and quality control advantages and efficiencies to benefit its wholesaling partners and tool end users.

The high quality range is backed by the experienced team, with the business itself celebrating 35 years. Set up by Rob

Serruijs in 1986, Serenco introduced among the first boosters, LED‐lights, Go‐Jak vehicle movers, cordless tools and the universal Metrinch‐keys to the market. In 2018, the company was acquired by current CEO Remco Geirnaert, who has taken the company on a new and ambitious growth journey. With the introduction of new and innovative products, expansion of its geographic sales areas, finding new application markets and through partnering up with new suppliers, the company is now ready for the next steps in growth.

NEW PRODUCTS AND A ‘PARTNER FOR LIFE’ COMMITMENT Serenco is continuously investing in product development and innovation, from the likes of Power‐Start and Projecta‐boosters, Boxo tools and workshop equipment, to Powerhand lighting solutions, with minimal energy consumption. GoJak, mean‐ while, is a tough and durable solution for vehicle movement and repositioning.

Serenco aims for a “partner‐for‐life” commitment, something which can only be successful if mutual expectations are met or exceeded, and optimal support and quality is provided.

Serenco offers wholesaling and industrial partners opera‐ tional excellence through stock deliveries, digital ordering, and online configuration tools. “With our affiliate marketing programmes we support our partners in their communication to the end user. Education, sharing know‐how, product infor‐ mation and branding promotions are just a part of that programme. Where applicable and needed, we offer private label services to our partners. The feedback that we receive from end users and partners is brought back into product improvements or the introduction of new, innovative solutions.

The growth that results from a valuable partnership translates into business growth for both.”

Serenco is interested in speaking with anyone sharing its vision and looking to talk about a potential business relation‐ ship in sales, procurement, manufacturing, or distribution, on OEM‐private label opportunities, or its wide range of high quality products. Find out more at... www.serenco.nl/en

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TORQUE FOCUS TORQUE TOOLS

GEDORE > THE NEXT GENERATION The latest set of torque tools from stalwart Gedore promise intuitive, optimised operation, suitable for various and special applications…

G

edore’s new TORCOFIX 2.0 model has precision and safety as top priorities and further expands the manufacturer’s increasingly comprehensive torque expertise.

In addition to highly accurate torque measurement for controlled screw tightening, the torque wrenches are also characterised by intuitive, efficient and optimised operation.

This ensures safe bolting during repairs and maintenance in mechanical engineering as well as in the automotive and commercial vehicle industry. The new TORCOFIX 2.0 is avail‐ able in the variants TF‐K, TF‐SE and TF‐Z, which means that the series offers versatile solutions for very different areas of application and also special applications.

The TORCOFIX TF‐K enables controlled screw tightening in the range from 20 to 850 Nm with ratchet function: this variant has an integrated mushroom head square drive with ball lock for the models 1/2” up to 300 Nm, the models 3/4” in the range up to a maximum of 400, 550 and 850 Nm are in turn equipped with a push‐through square drive and pin lock.

Due to the reversible mushroom head/through‐square, the tool is equally suitable for clockwise and anti‐clockwise rotation. To change the direction of rotation, simply remove the mushroom head/square drive and reinsert it on the other side after turning the torque wrench.

TORCOFIX 2.0 comes in a number of variants tailored for different industries, including the automotive market

The model TORCOFIX TF‐SE is designed for the range from 20 to 400 Nm and has an internal rectangular holder including ejector device in the versions 9 x 12 mm (in the range 20‐150 Nm) and 14 x 18 mm (in the range 40‐400 Nm). This adaptor allows for an optimal adjustment to the respective tightening situation and the application, as completely different, inter‐ changeable insertion tools with quick‐change system can be combined with the torque spanner. This makes the TF‐SE the ideal partner for work in confined spaces, for example.

ERGONOMICS, INTUITIVE OPERATION & ACCURACY All models of the new generation TORCOFIX 2.0 provide intuitive operation of the torque wrench. The convex handle is based on the natural gripping position of the hand, the ergonomically optimised shape with a circumferential notch centres the hand in the middle of the handle. This position‐ ing is essential for precise application of the set torque.

The torque is also adjusted via the handle of the torque wrench. By pulling out the colour‐coded locking knob, the handle can be turned, allowing the required torque value to be set. A fixing recess at the upper end of the handle serves as an ideal counterhold. Subsequently pressing in the locking knob fixes the selected torque value. The audi‐ ble and tactile release of the torque is even better perceived thanks to the optimised handle. When the torque wrench is not in use, it is stabilised by a stand on the handle and thus prevented from rolling away. Another helpful detail that makes working with the TORCOFIX 2.0 particularly useful.

Since precise setting of the required torque is essential, GEDORE has also further developed the scale of the TORCOFIX 2.0 series. Maximum accuracy is achieved with the new double scale (Nm/lbf‐ft) with vernier. In addi‐ tion, the practical double scale eliminates the need for time‐consuming conversion. Depending on the model, the scale is divided into increments of 0.5 to 1 Nm and is located under a viewing window that protects against dirt and abrasion. A higher‐contrast colour scheme makes it much easier to read, even in poor lighting condi‐ tions. Another plus is the vertical orientation of the scale: This makes reading and setting equally effortless for right‐ and left‐handers.

Made of robust tubular steel with high‐quality plastic parts, the matt powder‐coated surface protects against annoying reflections. Thanks to the automatic release when the torque is reached, the TORCOFIX 2.0 is immedi‐ ately ready for use without having to be adjusted again, thus saving time. www.gedore.com

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TORQUE FOCUS TORQUE TOOLS

TORQUING AT -35C IS SNOW JOKE Extreme torquing: Battery-powered RAD torque tools proved able to perform in extreme conditions in one of the most inhospitable landscapes on earth…

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hen the team at Canadian mining company Baffin‐ land started planning an expanded rail link over the Arctic tundra, nearly 100 kilometres away, they knew they’d need tough tools to get the job done – so they turned to RAD Torque Systems.

Linking Baffinland’s River Mary mine to the new Sealift facil‐ ity meant Baffinland needed to acquire more torque wrenches that could withstand the extreme cold temperatures. How cold?

Well, the new facility sits about 1,500 kilometres inside the Arctic Circle reaching an average winter temperature of ‐35C. It’s so cold that the extreme weather only allows for 90 days of ice‐free shipping every year.

Typically, pneumatic tools are the primary choice for work done in these sub‐zero temperatures. However, in these extreme situations, air tools freeze up and workers cannot run alcohol through the lines to keep them from doing so.

Having used RAD Torque battery tools in the past, Baffinland knew that the B‐RAD and DB‐RAD would be ideal for the extreme conditions. In particular, the Digital B‐RAD 3000–2 has become the service tool of choice for both mine operations as well as fleet maintenance.

RAD battery tools feature fresh lithium‐ion 18V battery tech‐ nology and while lithium‐ion batteries perform best when cold, the temperatures at Baffin Island were among the toughest endurance tests known.

A large shipment of RAD’s B‐RAD and DB‐RAD tool was scheduled for August to begin the rail line construction. Then the mine crew will have to act fast, as they will only have 90 days to build the expansion before everything freezes up again in October.

// RAD battery tools feature fresh lithium-ion 18V battery technology and while lithium-ion batteries perform best when cold, the temperatures at Baffin Island were among the toughest endurance tests known. //

Battery tools were the only option, as the temperatures would freeze air tools up

www.radtorque.com

Standard Listed - you know who’s best!

But contact us for all the rest...

• Non-preferred Metrics • Intermediate Sizes • Short and Long Lengths • Slotted Grub Screws • A4/80 Bolts & Socket Caps • 6 Lobe (TX) Drive Screws • All Metal Self-Locking Nuts • Studding Connectors And many more...

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

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

TORQUE FOCUS TORQUE TOOLS

RELIABLE TORQUING MATATAKITOYO Torque wrenches are essential kit in the automotive industry, heavy industry and aerospace industry. In addition, the air conditioning and refrigeration servicing industry requires multiple torque wrench operations. All refrigerant pipe joints should be tightened with a torque wrench at a predetermined torque value. This is to avoid the flare nut crack after a period of time and cause refrigerant leakage.

MATATAKITOYO has been noting the most popular tightening torque of flare nuts and valve caps, and has used this knowledge in brand new generation torque handles with pre‐set torque values of 18, 42, 55 and 65Nm. They can be fitted with an adjustable wrench head fitting or four different sizes of open‐ended head fittings. They comply with ISO 6789:2017 and supply with a declaration of conformance.

In operation, colour coding provides quick and easy torque selection by matching the colour on the torque handle with the same colour on the fitting, which can help prevent accidental torque value adjustment. The push/pull handle locking design is quick and easy to use. Customised torque requirements can be accommodated. For more product information, visit the official site. www.matatakitoyo.com

NORBAR TORQUE TOOLS Norbar has launched a new range of electronic torque wrenches covering a total torque range of 0.45 to 800 Nm across 12 different models. With electronic torque wrenches coming out of the quality control laboratory and into more general use, the new ProTronic® range is split into two fami‐ lies with a standard range and a Plus range, both offering high accuracy in terms of both torque and angle.

All ProTronic wrenches are well equipped with torque and angle measurement, a variety of alerts to indicate that the target torque is being approached, including progres‐ sive LEDs on both sides of the wrench for ease of visibility, sound and handle vibration, a clear backlit LCD display and calibration to ISO 6789‐2:2017. The ProTronic ‘standard’ family consist of models from the smallest at 5 to 100 Nm rising to the largest at 17 to 340 Nm. The ProTronic Plus family consists of eight models cover‐ ing a wider torque range than the ‘standard’. The family starts with a screwdriver with a torque range of 0.45 Nm to 9 Nm. This is followed by two slimline and compact models of 0.5 to 10 Nm and 1.5 to 30 Nm. The larger end of the family consists of models from 5 to 100 Nm rising to the largest at 40 to 800 Nm. There’s more details at: www.norbar.com

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INTERVIEW APEX STAINLESS FASTENERS

RIDING OUT THE

PERFECT STORM

With the pandemic stretching companies in most industries, wholesalers, importers and stockists have been busier than ever, proving their value in the exceptionally stretched supply chain. Apex Stainless Fasteners Managing Director David Vahter tells Torque Magazine how Apex is handling these unprecedented times, how its customers are coping and provides his well-travelled take on the quirks of the UK fastener market…

How has business been in the first half of 2021?

Are things back to 2019 levels?

Our 2020 numbers were not far off 2019, and 2021 will be significantly up on 2019 for us. Maybe that’s the case with our competitors too. It could be that distributors turn to stockists because they don’t want to import themselves in these turbu‐ lent times, but I am a little surprised to be so busy. I am almost inclined to say that it seems like we are taking market share in the UK, which would be fantastic, but in these unusual times it’s hard to confirm.

There’s a lot of publicity about price rises. Are these largely through material prices or supply chain issues?

There are four main factors. You have the increase in raw material prices: Nickel was down at $12,000 dollars a tonne in 2020 at one point. It’s now edging $18,000 a tonne [Editor’s note – at time of interview]. That increases the prices of products like fasteners.

Then you have the high container prices: Before the pandemic they were down at around a $1,000‐$2,000 per container, in summer 2021 you are looking at $8,000‐$10,000 per container. It’s a massive increase. Luckily for us, we trade stainless steel fasteners instead of steel fasteners, meaning that freight prices have slightly less of an impact.

What is quite worrying now is the lack of manufacturers and the longer lead times. On top of that you have limited stock availability. At some point the increases gets pushed to customers, it’s hard to get around that.

Are customers accepting of it?

I think we have been pragmatic and careful with our price increases – you have to think about your customer relation‐ ships long‐term. We have seen some big price rises elsewhere in the market. Pricing correctly is a difficult balancing act – when your stock is turning over so fast it’s even harder. With

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a slower turnover of stock you can have smooth little price increases gradually over a long period of time.

You’ve mentioned it already, but availability is a big issue in the industry...

Lead times are longer than we’ve seen before. Without doubt, stock availability will continue to be an issue in the coming six to nine months. Our stock availability isn’t where we would like it to be, but we have done well under the circumstances and a lot of that is thanks to my predecessor, Paul Lower, who made sure we held a lot of stock.

The steel mills were shut for a while and are now struggling to keep up, right?

I think the main factors is that all the companies stopped. It was like pressing a big red button. Then there was this big surge, which was expected to slow by February. But things have picked up and picked up... It’s almost like we’re seeing a balloon inflating. How long can it take to make up that lost demand?

We may have seen the peak, but there are a lot of construc‐ tion contracts awarded that will need fasteners when they are executed. Are we currently seeing high sales figures because we are tidying up customer’s backlogs and filling gaps in their stocks? Or is there a real demand out there? It’s a tricky one. I have a feeling May was the peak and now it will be busy but will flatten out.

Does the anti-dumping investigation concern Apex?

The investigation doesn’t affect stainless steel fasteners, but I think this is the last thing the industry needs. The timing couldn’t have been worse. You are already working in a market with capacity issues and bad stock availability. Put this on top then it is a big concern for the industry, but I am sure those affected will be able to navigate around it.

You’ve hinted that you are super busy right now, is that just keeping up with the demand...

Yeah, we have seen record months and when you are that busy you have to be careful how much strain is on your operations and team. We are doing extremely well to keep up with the current business volumes, but we are not used to these volumes month after month. Making deliveries as fast as previ‐ ously has been difficult. I think there is an understanding among our customers that the whole supply chain is strug‐ gling. Everyone is. It really is ‘all hands to the pump’.

You’ve worked across different markets in the fastener business. How does the UK compare with other territories you’ve experienced?

I worked in the UK around a decade ago, and the UK fastener business was then, and still is, very focused on service. Quick turnaround is key and companies will try to go the extra mile to ensure supply. In that way it is very similar to the Norwegian market, where you have to be quick – perhaps even quicker than here.

I’ve also worked in Denmark’s fastener industry, where it is price sensitive because you are squeezed between Germany, UK and Sweden – three big industrial countries. It’s three hours to drive from Hamburg to the middle of the manufactur‐ ing centre of Denmark, so you have a completely different competitive set up in terms of pricing.

If you think of Sweden, the decision making process is typically longer– if you want to do something you make sure it is right, and that can be frustrating for other nationalities. That may be reflec‐ tive of the big automotive industry there and the big volumes.

People tend to think of Danes and Swedes as two peas in a pod however that is not my experience. In terms of making decisions there is an old Danish joke about the Øresund Bridge between Denmark and Sweden. When Sweden was still decid‐ ing whether to build their side of the bridge, Denmark had already started building their side.

Whatever the country, you have to be there locally to under‐ stand the differences. Local is key to get anywhere in any coun‐ try, in my opinion.

Covid-19 has obviously been hugely disruptive, and one of the initial industry worries was how smaller distributors/merchants would be able to cope. How have Apex’s customers fared, generally speaking?

We expected some smaller customers without big capital behind them to struggle and in Q2 last year we saw that some

“The UK fastener business is very focused on service...”

“Apex has invested back into stock and at times like these you realise how important that is.”

customers weren’t paying us as quickly as usual. However, by end of year that had returned to normal and we haven’t seen any big bankruptcies in our customers. We still have to see what happens when the government takes away its supportive measures like furlough, but I think it is looking quite positive.

We may see the current mergers and acquisition activities will pick up further as the UK industry is fairly fragmented.

In terms of the environment, you’ve previously spoken about reducing carbon footprint at Apex. Can you tell us a bit about that?

Sustainability is on the agenda for lots of companies and for Apex as well. We have managed to cut our printouts 50% in 2021. During the autumn we will review our packaging materials. Although I would like to point out that we are already quite efficient in in handling scrap out of packaging operations. We are also currently looking into swapping over more to green energy. Sustainability is definitely becoming more and more important for the business.

How about things like automation or expansion in the warehouse?

We are currently looking at how to optimise and make the warehouse more efficient. Automation isn’t always right for every business, but there is a potential for us to use more technology in our operations.

What are your expectations for the rest of 2021?

I think it will be busy and that there will be shortages across the board. I think that stockists will play a bigger part than ever in minimising disruption. It’s time like this that you see the true value in a stockist. Apex has invested right back into stock and at times like these you realise how important that is.

With shortages and the lack of manufacturing capacity I think we still have the perfect storm still ahead, but we have done extraordinarily well and I’m very proud of the company and our employees. We are in a good position.

If you look at all the factors: Port issues, Brexit, demand increase, the Suez blockage, new Covid variants… not to mention shortage of HGV drivers… I have never experienced a time like this, nothing close to it. When I speak to other managers, they all say the same. Ultimately, it is good we see such high demand in business, but it is tough. I can really sympathise with customers, colleagues and other stockists, end users and everyone. It is a perfect storm and we are trying to ride it out together. www.apexstainless.com

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TORQUE FOCUS STAINLESS STEEL

CORROSION RESISTANCE, durability and tensile strength Stainless steel has a number of properties that make it an evergreen favourite in the world of componentry…

Dormer Pramet > Milling stainless steel Dormer Pramet has launched a new generation of solid carbide five‐flute end mills, specifically for dynamic milling in general machining and die and mould applications.

The company’s S7 assortment covers a wide range of oper‐ ations in a variety of steels, cast irons and difficult‐to‐machine materials, including stainless steels and super‐alloys.

These latest additions, S770HB, S771HB, S772HB and S773HB, offer increased feed rates up to 25%, compared with four‐flute cutters. All feature a positive rake angle for smooth cutting action and to reduce the risk of work‐hardening.

An AlCrN coating provides thermal stability, reduced fric‐ tion, excellent wear resistance and prolonged durability, while a small corner radius and cutting‐edge design gives a stable performance and prolonged tool life.

The S771HB and S773HB cutters are suitable for narrow pocketing, trochoidal slotting and profiling applications.

These end mills include a chip divider to break swarf into manageable smaller pieces, helping to reduce spindle load and increase metal removal rates. This provides a 50% bigger width of cut compared to tools without a chip divider.

A neck recess helps avoid contact with the wall in shoulder Get to the point: Dormer Pramet’s new generation of solid carbide five-flute end mills can handle difficult-to-machine materials, including stainless steels and super-alloys

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operations, while through coolant improves welding resis‐ tance and enables a wide range of processes, especially for difficult‐to‐machine materials.

The S770HB and S772HB are more suitable for profiling, trochoidal slotting, and semi‐finishing applications, offering maximum productivity due to optimal metal removal rate and reduced machining time.

Meanwhile, Dormer Pramet has added three multi‐appli‐ cation high performance cutters within its S7 range for use on both CNC and conventional machine tools.

The new additions – S722HB, S765HB and S768 – support most common operations, such as slotting, plunging, contour milling, ramping and copy milling in various materials, includ‐ ing medium strength steels, stainless steels and super alloys.

These four‐flute cutters have a specific tooth design for improved chip evacuation. The AlCrN and Titanium Silicon Nitride (TiSiN) coatings support longer tool life, higher cutting speeds and increased heat resistance, making them ideal for dry machining. www.dormerpramet.com

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QUALITY S I N C E 19 51

N E W O N S TO T OC OCK: Tapping screws: ISO 14585 ISO 14586 type C

Thread rolling screws: ISO 14581 DIN 7500 CE/M

Drilling screws: ISO 15481 ISO 15482 DIN 7504 type K

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

Thread rolling screws: ISO 14583 ISO 14579 ISO 14580

Nuts: DIN 985 DIN 6923

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

T H E

G L O B A L

P A R T N E R

F O R

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

TORQUE FOCUS STAINLESS STEEL

Industrial fastener recovery to boost stainless steel demand Fact.MR has predicted the industrial fastener market will bounce back from a 2020 decline of 2.5% and to expand at a CAGR of 5% through to 2031. The report attributed the high usage of electrical, automotive and other indus‐ trial sectors are driving growth, while advanced processes such as hot‐dip galvanizing, zinc and chrome coatings are set to “further widen the growth scope for manufacturers”.

ELESA interlock handles in stainless steel New RH series tubular handles from Elesa offer a rugged and elegantly simple electrical cut‐off for the safe opening of access panels on machine tools. This is achieved with an IP65 pushbutton interlock in a single or twin button configuration. FG16 variants feature electronic buttons while FG18 are pneumatic. On the elec‐ trical handles, an emergency stop button version is available, as well as a plain handle version to compliment for use elsewhere.

Elesa RH handles are designed in a bridge or pull‐handle configuration and are suited to installation on cabinets, machine tools, moulding machines or other processing equip‐ ment in food or petrochemical plant.

Tubular handles in the RH series are available in stainless steel (FG‐16), in aluminium and Technopolymer (FG‐18) so they mayy be used in laboratory or electronic assembly applications where their safety, style and comfortable use are appreciated by users.

Operation of the safety interlock is achieved by the push buttons, which are connected to the machine control system via a solenoid which operates the safety cut‐off (FG‐16). The door latching mechanism is only then released when all the equipmentt has been brought to a safe condition. www.elesa.com

Stainless steel projects develop in Dainan Town, Xinghua, Jiangsu Province Stainless steel industry is the pillar industry of Dainan Town, with nearly 2,000 stainless steel enterprises.

In order to make the stainless steel industry bigger and stronger, Dainan town has realised “Five Concentration”, which provides support for the high‐quality development of stainless steel industry.

Jinqiao Welding Material project is a typical project. The project covers an area of 142,000 m², with a total investment of 1.5 billion yuan. Production includes low alloy steel, heat‐ resistant steel and other series, a variety of brands of welding materials, which can meet 80% of the domestic welding needs like shipbuilding industry, pressure vessel industry and other industries.

The first phase of the project has been completed and put into operation. At present, the second and third phases are getting started. After the completion of the project, 400,000 tonnes of solid gas shielded welding wire can be produced annually, with an annual invoice sales of 3 billion yuan and taxes of 300 million yuan. The domestic market share can reach 75%.

It is said that several big projects like 5G communication base station, intelligent manufacturing of high‐performance special alloy wire products, stainless steel scrap processing

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are under construction. Among them, Kangtong New Material Industrial Park is expected to be completed in December 2021. After completion, it will strive to become a national well‐known stainless steel fastener industry cluster by carry‐ ing out professional investment promotion around the

// Kangtong New Material Industrial Park is expected to be completed in December 2021. //

fastener industry. It will become an incubator for small and micro enterprises, and a new highland for the transformation and development of Dainan stainless steel industry.

Reporting by ChinaFastener.com. www.ChinaFastener.com

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Extreme surroundings require special quality characteristics of the used material. So, in the offshore sector, but also for bridges and buildings near the sea, reactor construction and chemical industry, the material D6 | 1.4462 DUPLEX is essential, which distinguishes by its strong resistance and belongs to Corrosion Resistance Class (CRC) IV. We are the specialist in high-quality fasteners made from stainless high-grade steel and special materials.

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In the course of the harmonisation of standards the category of Corrosion Resistance Classes (CRC) has been regulated by the Eurocode 3/DIN EN 1993-1-4, annex A. Many European countries are therefore encouraged to consider these newly determined stainless steel grades for the calculation and construction of steel structures.

TOBSTEEL is the only stockholder for fasteners who covers all Corrosion Resistance Classes (CRC) I to V according to Eurocode 3 – annex A.

NOVEMBER 2021 SPECIAL

FASTENER LOGISTICS Kanban, C-parts management & transparency

FOCUSING ON > C-PARTS, KANBAN, DIGITALISATION & MORE.

GET YOUR BUSINESS PROFILED AND INCLUDED IN THIS SPECIAL FEATURE

DON’T MISS OUT – CONTACT ME TODAY

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NOVEMBER 2021 SPECIAL

AUTOMOTIVE FASTENERS & TOOLS Bolts, screws, washers, rivets, clips, rivet guns, torque wrenches and more

FOCUSING ON > AUTOMOTIVE FASTENERS, TOOLS, PROCESSES, NEWS AND TRENDS IN THE SECTOR GET YOUR BUSINESS PROFILED AND INCLUDED IN THIS SPECIAL FEATURE

DON’T MISS OUT – CONTACT ME TODAY

Harry Whyte +49 172 6231 429 (Mobile) +49 6073 640201 (Office) harry.whyte@torque-expo.com

TORQUE FOCUS

RISING STARS 2021

CELEBRATING THE YOUTH OF THE INDUSTRY Earlier this year, Torque Magazine put out a call for companies to nominate their young, up-and-coming executives, whether they work in the warehouse, or are part of the sales force, part of the technical team or a different part of the business. So, without further ado, here are 2021’s Torque Rising Stars…

EMILY BETTS Sales Administrator, Stone Head Office Owlett-Jaton At 16, Emily embarked upon an apprenticeship and level 2 diploma in customer service with Owlett‐Jaton.

Upon completion of her one‐ year apprenticeship, she was offered a role as a Sales Adminis‐ trator. A vital role within the company, Emily responds to customer communication, processes orders, manages enquiries and assists with any issues.

Having joined so young, Emily gained a significant amount of confidence whilst on her apprenticeship and is now a valued member of the North West sales team.

JONATHAN WATTS Area Sales Manager - Northern Home Counties and East Anglia Owlett-Jaton Jonathan joined Owlett‐Jaton’s Dartford office as part of a level 2 intermediate apprenticeship certificate in sales in May 2016, with the goal of one day becom‐ ing an Area Sales Manager (ASM).

In May 2017, his apprenticeship ended, and Jonathan was offered a Sales Administrator position.

// As a Merchandising Rep, Jonathan built up relationships with key customers whilst starting to enjoy the travelling aspect of the role. // Over the next year, Jonathan worked as a Sales Administrator whilst supporting ASMs in merchandising projects when required. Over time he gained valuable merchandising experi‐ ence that led him into his next role as a Merchandising Rep. As a Merchandising Rep, Jonathan built up relationships with key customers. Two years later, he became ASM for the Northern Home Counties and East Anglia.

HANNAH SHAW Website Manager BS Fixings Since 2018, Hannah has been responsible for researching, sourcing, ordering and listing new products to the website, to keep up with, and set, industry trends in her role as Website Manager. In recent months she has overseen the additions of both SPAX and +DART products to the BS Fixings website, amongst others.

She is also responsible for maintaining stock levels, through constant liaising with the warehouse and sales teams, as well as analysing the performance of the website to ensure the customer journey is as straightforward as possible.

Customer service is a priority for both Hannah and the BS Fixings brand, and feedback from customers on review plat‐ forms, such as Trustpilot, reflects the outstanding job she does of giving clear and honest advice.

Hannah has completely transformed and developed the busi‐ ness into a successful and respected nationwide distributor of DIY and construction products, along with stainless steel and galvanised fixings and fasteners.

// In the past 12 months Hannah has greatly expanded the range of products on offer as well as researching and securing new stock management software, helping the business to run even more smoothly and efficiently. // In the last financial year (2020/2021), BS Fixings has seen a 45% increase in turnover through the help of Hannah’s forward thinking and innovative ideas, reacting quickly to industry trends and taking necessary risks to ensure that BS Fixings becomes a frontrunner in a fiercely competitive industry.

In the past 12 months Hannah has greatly expanded the range of products on offer as well as researching and securing new stock management software, helping the business to run even more smoothly and efficiently. She also oversaw the development of a completely new website for BS Fixings.

torque-expo.com

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TORQUE FOCUS

RISING STARS 2021 Message from the Editor “Congratulations to everyone that made it onto the inaugural Torque Rising Stars list. You were the first!

“We are incredibly proud to highlight up-andcoming executives in the industry and get them into our magazine alongside some of the more senior and established names and figures in the industry.

“Recruitment and retainment of valuable young staff is a challenge for just about every industry and that’s no less true of the fastener, tool and fixings sector. It’s a significant matter for companies of all sizes and Torque Rising Stars is our, albeit humble,

TROY GARDNER Sales Director Rivetwise Rivetwise would like to highlight its ambitious, hardworking and talented Sales Director – Troy Gardner, for the Torque Rising Stars initiative.

Troy previously worked as an administrator in the recruitment industry and joined Rivetwise as a Sales Administrator at the age of 19. His ability to grasp tech‐ nical information and put this into practice meant that he soon progressed into a Sales Executive role. The role has seen him build extensive relations with many high‐end customers, where he has maintained the highest level of customer service whilst dealing with their technical enquiries.

Troy was promoted to Sales Director during a time of transi‐ tion and growth for Rivetwise. Troy now heads up the internal sales department and is Line Manager for four members of the Internal Sales Team.

Rivetwise said: “Troy was impressive from the word go. His atten‐ tion to detail and his team ethic is top class. His technical knowledge has grown very quickly which goes a long way to provide our customers with the best solution and service. Troy is very much part of the future of Rivetwise and I am excited about developing the business with Troy being at the forefront of our development.

Troy added: “The best part of my role is being able to help our customers and provide technical advice on their applications. I also enjoy being able to support the team at Rivetwise and help‐ ing them with their day to day enquires. I love working in this fast‐paced environment, going the extra mile and maintaining an excellent service experience to our customers.”

Rivetwise would like to thank Troy for the commitment, dedication and hard work he has shown the company over the last five years.

Apprentice Rising Stars Since February 2021, Torque Magazine has run mini-interviews with apprentices in the fastener and tool industries. Once again highlighting younger executives from the fastener, tool and fixings trade and highlighting best practice. Want to take part?

Get in touch at libby@torque-expo.com

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way of highlighting some of the many talents coming through the ranks.

“Like our Apprentice Q&A regular feature, which we have been running throughout all our print magazines this year, we are keen to keep on banging the drum for the future of the industry.”

“Thanks to early adopters for getting on board this year and taking part in the 2021 Torque Rising Stars list. It is the first of many and the door is open to all our readers to join in for 2022’s list and beyond.”

Jonathon Harker, Editor

NIAMH O’CALLAGHAN Sales Administrator, Elland Branch Owlett-Jaton Niamh joined Owlett‐Jaton in June 2019 as a Sales Administra‐ tor apprentice based in the Elland office. The time spent within the Elland branch helped her develop her skills, and she has gained a level of newfound confidence.

A valued member of the team, Niamh successfully took the chance to apply for a role as a Sales Administrator once her level 3 Business Administrator apprenticeship was complete. Having demonstrated her strengths and commitment the previous year, she is now a permanent and valued team member.

Her role involves processing orders, customer relationship management and providing exemplary customer service.

Didn’t make this list this year? Forgot to nominate your star junior employee?

Don’t worry because we will do it all again in 2022. Drop us a line before 31 August 2022 (there really is no excuse this time). Simply send us a high resolution photo of the candidate, their job title and role, plus a short explanation of why they have been put forward. Nominees will ideally be under 40 years of age.

Email us at jonathon@torque-expo.com

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SPOTLIGHT

TROY (UK) LAUNCHES #SUPPORTINDEPENDENTS NATIONWIDE CAMPAIGN Troy’s new drive promotes the values of buying from its Independent ent Tooling Member Distributors. Here, the group takes us through how it will push the #SupportIndependents message

T

roy (UK) has launched a nationwide #SupportIndepen‐ dents Campaign to endorse the values of buying locally through its 350+ Independent Member Distributors across the UK. Trades and members of the public can support this campaign and their local economy by choosing to shop with a Troy Member industrial tooling distributor, rather than a buying through a national tooling chain. Troy Members are UK family businesses, built up over generations, with proud histo‐ ries offering unrivalled levels of customer service and in‐store technical product knowledge with access to over 400 suppliers and over 2,000 brands – providing quality merchandise, at great value all from a local and trusted trader.

Keen to get the message out, Troy will be highlighting the benefits in buying from a Troy Member; being competitive on price, giving a professional tool shop experience and offering first class, after sales support from a familiar and friendly face.

It will be pushing the flexible approach to sales, that only an independent can offer, their wealth of local knowledge, and a mutual ethos of supporting other independent businesses in their communities too – which is vital for keeping the UK’s local economies growing.

The #SupportIndependents campaign, which is part of a larger marketing strategy, will be directing professional trades and DIY customers to Troy Members through its online branch locator. It comprises local and national targeted advertising, social media, customer focussed digital events and trade road shows. To complement this, Troy recently became a sponsor of champion rugby union team, Exeter Chiefs, which is local to its Head Office. The Chiefs share many of Troy core beliefs; its strong family values, commitment to developing homegrown talent and beliefs in backing local enterprise – as well as putting the Troy brand firmly on the map.

Keira Park, Troy Group Marketing Manager, says: “Troy is synonymous with independents, so it’s our aim to reach out to all customers, far and wide, and highlight the real value in buying from a local independent – incredible customer service with a personal touch, technical product knowledge, flexibility of sales, tooling repair services and more.

“Customers may believe that a local independent industrial tooling distributor might not have access to the same wide ranges of products and brands as national tooling chains and that is simply not the case. Through our #SupportIndepen‐ dents campaign, we will be shouting via every possible chan‐ nel – social media, local & national news outlets, our digital events and through high profile sponsorship – to make sure

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that buying local is the first thing that people think of when wanting to buy industrial tooling products.”

Tradespeople, professions and DIYers can take the first step in supporting their local Troy independent tooling distributor by visiting Troy’s Website branch locator at... www.troyuk.co.uk/member-locator/ #SupportIndependents

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

SUPPORT INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES

BY CHOOSING A TROY MEMBER AS YOUR INDUSTRIAL TOOLING PROVIDER

- Access to 400+ Suppliers & 2000+ Brands - Professional Toolshop Experience - Family Culture, Heritage & History - Flexibility - Instore Technical Product Knowledge

Torque Directory is a handy list of distributors and manufacturers, displayed all-year-round in print and digital issues of Torque Magazine. Digital readers can click directly through to supplier websites and listings reach 10,000 decision makers through the print magazines.

- After Sales Service - Find us here

£500 for a year.

group

www.troy.co.uk/member-locator

BOLTED SAFETY In association with BOLTED Magazine, about bolting technologies.

Read and subscribe at www.bolted.com

MULTIPLE NORD-LOCK GROUP TECHNOLOGIES

PUT AN END TO COMMON JOINT LEAKS

Leaks in a gas turbine not only cause forced outages and damage to critical equipment, but can also pose a significant safety hazard. By combining multiple products and technologies, Nord-Lock Group has devised a combination of solutions to solve common 501F gas turbine four-way joint leaks.

F

our‐way joint leaks in gas turbines typically occur over time as extreme thermal variations and startups cause turbine cylinders to warp and distort. Cylinder misalign‐ ments compound the problem because flange surfaces don’t maintain the maximum contact area needed to ensure a proper seal, allowing leaks to occur.

Leaks can cause significant damage to turbine instrumenta‐ tion and insulation and may jeopardise operations and work‐ place safety. Recently, Nord‐Lock Group partnered with a 501F gas turbine fleet owner which had experienced such leaks for over 20 years. Trogether they ran a joint R&D project to find a better solution.

A NEED FOR A MORE PERMANENT SOLUTION “Previous fixes available to fleet owners have been either temporary in nature or consist more of containing the leak rather than stopping it,” says Jeremy Hersom, Business Devel‐ opment Manager, Power Generation, at Nord‐Lock Group.

A popular type of containment fix is to weld‐on leak boxes.

However, apart from failing to stop the leak, they also require removal and reinstallation during an outage – adding time and cost to the outage schedule.

“Previous fixes also tended to focus on a singular cause to solve the leakage issue,” Hersom says. “By contrast, our solution combines multiple products and technologies across our prod‐ uct portfolio to address multiple contributing causes for leaks.”

During the project, Nord‐Lock Group power generation experts had open access to the fleet owner’s turbines so they could study cylinder configurations and leak causes.

“Having open access to the 501F gas turbines proved critical to the successful diagnosis of multiple contributing factors to leakage,” says Hersom.

“This was very much a learning process over time, as several solutions were developed and tested.”

INGENIOUS COMBINATION OF TECHNOLOGIES After comprehensive testing, the most effective solution was a combination of multiple Nord‐Lock Group products and technologies. To start, a Boltight Hydraulic Closure System (HCS) is used to quickly and temporarily ensure the cylinders are aligned and that the four‐way joint is tensioned. If, after the cylinder has been squeezed by the HCS, a bolt hole or flange is still misaligned, a CamAlign tensioner system is used to realign the cylinder. This can close an internal gap by 2‐4 millimetres, ensuring the smallest possible gap is achieved.

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The HCS is pressurised to simultaneously and uniformly squeeze the turbine cylinder around the four‐way joint – thus isolating the area. Multiple hydraulic tensioners maintain the pressure while internal and external gap readings are recorded, and the cylinder alignment is checked.

Once these adjustments are complete and the four‐way joint is correctly aligned, the joint is again squeezed using the HCS, which allows the load to be transferred to the Superbolt mechanical multi‐jackbolt tensioners to perma‐ nently tension the joint. Rather than tension each bolt one at a time, which can create movement in the load, the HCS immobilises the entire joint and maintains total stability as each bolt is tensioned.

Finally, an internal seal is installed as an added layer of protection in the area where the combustor cylinder and turbine sections meet. This eliminates any leakage not prevented by realigning the cylinders.

“THE BEST SOLUTION ON THE MARKET” The combination of Nord‐Lock Group solutions – including multi‐jackbolt tensioners, hydraulic closure systems, and alignment tensioners – has since been tested and trialled in the fleet owner’s operations and has proven effective in preventing four‐way joint leaks. There have been no forced shutdowns due to instrumentation or insulation damage and it has provided a safer working environment inside the turbine enclosure.

The overall feedback from the turbine fleet owner is that “it is the best solution for four‐way joint leaks currently on the market”.

While this particular solution is unique to 501F fleet owners and their specific turbines, the knowledge and experience gained will prove valuable for Nord‐Lock going forward.

“Turbines share a common principle: a wheel or rotor revolves to produce power through movement,” explains Peter Miranda, Regional Sales Director, Nord‐Lock Group.

“The lessons learned by our Power Generation experts increases our expertise and can be applied to solve similar leakage problems.”

Nord-Lock Group produces Bolted, a biannual magazine covering secure bolting, industry insights and engineering challenges. Head to Bolted.com to read the latest issue. www.nord-lock.com

// The overall feedback from the turbine fleet owner is that; it is the best solution for 4-way joint leaks currently on the market. //

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BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION ANCHORS

JCP FIXINGS AND ITS ANCHORS TO THE RESCUE When a project in London diamond district Hatton Garden ran up against a construction conundrum, the customer called JCP to provide a fix…

J

CP – the specialist fixing division of Owlett‐Jaton – is known for its in‐depth product knowledge, technical support and a comprehensive range of high‐quality fixings. When it was approached by a customer who did not know which fixing would best suit a particular and unusual application, JCP put these elements together and provided an ideal solution.

Hatton Gardens – synonymous with luxury jewellery stores near central London – was the project’s location: The construc‐ tion of a large complex of luxury apartments. The customer needed a fixing which could be used in a concrete ceiling for each floor throughout the complex, to suspend the services from, including cable trays, pipework, and air conditioning.

However, all of the ceilings throughout the building had had 200mm of insulation already applied, and so the concrete surface was inaccessible. Drop‐in anchors had initially been specified, but because they are hammer set with a setting punch, they could not reach through the insulation; there was the added issue of not being able to tell if the anchor had been set, as the insulation prevented visibility.

The solution that JCP presented was to instead opt for a nail in socket. One of the benefits of this was that they have an auto‐ matic expanding action when hammered in situ. All the contractor had to do was drill a 6mm diameter hole through the insulation and into the concrete, attach a length of threaded bar to the nail in socket, push the nail in socket through the insulation and simply hammer the end of the protruding threaded bar; the fixing was immediately ready for use.

The nail in socket is from the JCP range of metal anchors, and

is a hammer‐in dual‐thread anchor, for multiple use in non‐ structural concrete applications. It is quick and easy to install, and the auto‐expansion feature provides a secure fixing. The dual thread allows the user to opt for either an M8 or M10 threaded rod – from the same fixing. It can be used in concrete C12/15, concrete C20/25 to C50/60, and cracked/non‐cracked concrete lightweight suspended ceilings. The nail in socket offers a reaction to fire class A1, with an R120 Fire Resistant Classification, which equates to 120 minutes resistance, and is CE and ETA (European Technical Assessment) approved for multiple use for non‐structural applications in concrete.

Once completed, a site test was requested by the contractor and carried out by JCP. The test took place where sufficient insulation could be temporarily removed, to gain access to the fixing and for the test rig to be applied. The site test results demonstrated that the fixing was successful and it passed, able to take an ‘Ultimate Applied Load’ of 4.0kN – that equates to just over 400Kg. JCP also offers a range of associated products including M8 and M10 threaded bar (studding), available in mild steel, high tensile, and stainless steel (grades A2 and A4), in a choice of lengths; finish options include self‐colour, bright zinc plated (BZP) and galvanized. A blow‐out pump which should be used every time to clear out debris, as well as a large range of drill bits, including SDS+ drill bits. Datasheets are also available to view and download from the JCP Fixings website. www.jcpfixings.co.uk

JCP’s nail in socket is a hammer-in dual-thread anchor for multiple use in non-structural concrete applications

// It is quick and easy to install, and the auto-expansion feature provides a secure fixing. //

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BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION ANCHORS

SILVER ANNIVERSARY > HECO’S MULTI-MONTI-PLUS CELEBRATES A QUARTER CENTURY The HECO MULTI-MONTI-plus screw anchor is celebrating its 25th birthday – and at the same time adding an A4 stainless steel version to the range. This variant makes the assembly fitting suitable even for particularly demanding weather conditions...

H

ECO launched its MULTI‐MONTI‐plus screw anchor, a multifunctional mounting system, 25 years ago. Low driving torque, expansion‐free connections and approvals for cracked and uncracked concrete as well as masonry make the MULTI‐MONTI‐plus one of the most versa‐ tile screw anchors.

Extremely difficult weather conditions place high demands on fasteners. “The new addition to the range – MULTI‐MONTI‐plus in A4 stainless steel grade – is proving to be a safe solution here,” says Frank Hofer, Product Manager at HECO‐Schrauben. “Be it for fasten‐ ing railings, post holders, awnings, solar systems or fireplaces.”

The use of the MULTI‐MONTI‐plus stainless steel variant in cracked and uncracked concrete is regulated in ETA 15/0784 Option 1. Its extra‐hard black phosphated BlackCut function tip, for example, offers some special advantages such as an opti‐ mal undercut, better positioning and low insertion torque. This allows the screw anchor to be anchored securely.

Specifically for transport infrastructure, and for use in tunnel structures in particular, the MULTI‐MONTI‐plus is also available in HCR stainless steel.

// Extremely difficult weather conditions place high demands on fasteners – the new addition to the range is proving to be a safe solution here. // A COMPLETE RANGE FOR ALMOST ANY APPLICATION The complete MMS‐plus range, in stainless steel and galvanised versions, is the largest approved screw anchor range with diameters of 6 to 20 millimetres, says HECO. The 10‐ to 20‐ millimetre variants also have seismic approval. In particular, the approvals also cover use in masonry under fire load.

Furthermore, MULTI‐MONTI‐plus is also approved for use in solid lime sand brick, perforated lime sand brick, and lightweight concrete. General type approval Z‐2.1‐2103 is avail‐ able for anchoring in masonry. With these properties, HECO’s fastening solution, which has been tried and tested for 25 years, is suitable for a particularly wide range of mounting types.

Based in Schramberg, HECO‐Schrauben is one of Germany’s leading manufacturers of screw and fixing systems for wood construction, concrete and metal applications as well as for heavy‐duty fixings. The company currently employs 400 people and avails of a production area spanning 20,000 m². www.heco-schrauben.com

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MMS-plus: This screw anchor range is suitable for multiple use in temporary fastenings and more.

The MMS-plus screw anchor in A4 stainless steel is ideally suited for outdoor use and can withstand even the most severe weather conditions

WHAT’S NEXT IN LINE FOR FISCHER? The fixing and anchor giant has bolstered its already considerable product line-up, this time with added focus on ease of use and sustainability…

f

ischer’s 2021 product innovations include the new fischer DuoSeal plug that enables secure fastenings while simul‐ taneously sealing the drill hole. It’s the latest addition to the fischer DuoLine, which now includes four smart plugs with an innovative combination of materials. The fixing specialist now also offers its new EasyHook range to hang or attach furnishing elements. The wide range of products includes round, eye or angle hooks that can be placed onto countersunk screws as an adapter. The product is quickly and easily installed directly in wood or any other conventional construction mate‐ rial together with the fischer DuoPower plug.

The fischer PowerFast II chipboard screw is the newest addi‐ tion to fischer’s broad range of screws and offers ease of instal‐ lation, high performance and a wide range of applications. The Power‐Fast II can be used for all types of wood‐on‐wood and wood‐on‐metal connections as well as with verified loads using fischer plastic plugs. fischer has also added 29 new measurements to its UltraCut FBS II range of concrete screws, with large useable lengths to anchor thick wood components specifically. The new FSW adjusting washer makes it quicker and simpler to adjust and align beams and sleepers and is used together with FBS II 10 US gvz concrete screws and the PowerFast II screws The new FA‐ST II bolt anchor setting tool is another new practical installation helper.

The tool makes series installation particularly quick and easy.

connections, water‐filled drill holes, applications in areas prone to earthquakes as well as specialist applications.

Because the physical performance limit of its chemical fixing systems has practically been reached, the company is focusing on user‐friendly, sustainable, and smart products when devel‐ oping new chemical products. These developments include non‐hazardous and low‐label systems that set new standards in terms of health and safety requirements. fischer also devel‐ oped additional applications, most recently with the new ETA (assessment) of its Superbond dynamic FSB dyn system. The assessment now also covers anchoring lightweight dynamic loads with standard fischer threaded rods in cracked concrete and defines the corresponding specifications. www.fischer.group

The new FSW adjusting washer (left) and FIS V Plus universal mortar (right)

USER FRIENDLY AND SUSTAINABLE CHEMICAL FIXINGS In the field of chemi‐ cal fixings, fischer also launched the new FIS V Plus univer‐ sal mortar in 2021, which provides a 100‐ year assessed (ETA) lifespan, a high bond strength in concrete as well as a wide range of applica‐ tions. Its potential uses include fastenings in concrete and masonry, post‐installed rebar

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BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION ANCHORS

SHARE THE LOAD > MECHANICAL ANCHORS & INSULATION FIXINGS Wedge anchors in galvanised steel, from Klimas

CELO FOCUSES ON THE ENERGY-EFFICIENT INSULATION FIXINGS MARKET CELO is highlighting the thermal impact of installations on insulated façades with a new video showcasing its insulation fixings, as well as the ResiTHERM system.

KLIMAS LAUNCHES MECHANICAL ANCHORS Mechanical anchors are professional solutions for the most demanding structural joints where high and very high loads are involved.

They are used wherever a permanent structural element such as a lintel or a tie beam cannot be used. They are available from Klimas Wkret‐met in four variants and 96 sizes (from M8 to M16). Since the use of anchors requires a design based on accurate load calculations, Klimas Wkret‐met offers full tech‐ nical support.

There’s also the free Wkret‐met DesignFiX application for designing the structure according to the requirements of the investment. The program is designed in accordance with the European design method for anchors TR 029 (ETAG 0001). www.klimas.com

The fixing manufacturer said it is now possible to safely install most external applications to any insulated façade.

Products such as the Insulation plug IPL or the Insulation screw IPS can be used to install light‐loads such as letterboxes and wall connection profiles, while the distance mounting system ResiTHERM® can be used to install to heavy‐duty appli‐ cations such as awnings.

CELO’s new video shows the thermal impact of installations on insulated façades, how they are helping prevent thermal bridging and how easy they are to install.

CELO says: “When insulating a building the first thing considered is the type of insulation panel to be used, however, it is equally important to think about what elements will be installed on the insulation such as lighting, downpipes, canopies, mailboxes or smart doorbells among others, and how it will be installed. By ensuring that even the smallest hole is optimally sealed, issues such as thermal bridging or water leaks could be prevented, and at the same time, it will optimise the energy‐efficiency of the household.” www.celofixings.com/1723-insulation-fixings

Galvanised and A4 stainless steel wedge anchors from Klimas

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STRONG FOR GENERATIONS

NEW WEDGE ANCHORS HIGHEST STRENGTH PARAMETERS

ANTI-CORROSION PROTECTION Zn WHITE

SUPER QUALITY SQ CERAMIC

A4

LE-DA4 (SQ Ceramic)

INOX

White Zinc - Thickness of zinc coating min. 12 μm, guarantee of quality and high level of anti-corrosion protection.

SQ Ceramic - Very high level of anti-corrosion protection (several times higher than the traditional galvanization).

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

LE-ZN - Wedge anchors (Galvanized steel - BOLT + CLIP)

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

LE-DA4 - Wedge anchors (SQ Ceramic - BOLT + Stainless steel A4 - CLIP)

LE-A4 - Wedge anchors (Stainless steel A4 - BOLT + CLIP)

Choosing correct Klimas Wkręt-met chemical anchor and mechanical anchor system is very simple now!

WKRĘT-MET DESIGNFIX IS FAST AND INTUITIVE This application is free for our customers and designers!

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

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

POLISH PRODUCER OF FASTENER TECHNOLOGIES

market 20 MILLION DIY-ERS

CAN’T BE WRONG

Viewpoint from Will Jones, Chief Operating Officer of the British Home Enhancement Trade Association (BHETA)

T

he latest GB TGI consumer data (August 2021) reveals that 38% of adults (almost 20 million people) have undertaken home improvement projects (either DIY or ‘do it for me’) in the last 12 months.

The most popular activity is painting, done personally by 72% of DIY‐ers, followed by putting up blinds/curtains (40%) and installing shelves/storage units (37%). The top tasks where professionals were paid are similar, and the spends involved exceed £2,000 on materials in a sizeable 15% of cases (three million people). The great thing for the tools and fixings market is that all the top projects either require both consumables and tools – or in the case of painting and deco‐ rating, even DIY‐ers require good quality tools if the job is to be done easily and successfully.

The TGI findings are very much supported by the latest statis‐ tics from GlobalData, now projecting DIY in general as being up 5.8% year on year by the end of 2021, with tools and security specifically 3.7% up. Compared to pre‐pandemic numbers, the

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equivalents are 9.8% and 7.8% respectively with the market clearly having moved onwards and upwards.

Google Trends also demonstrates the reality of the shift with searches for ‘paint brush’ still up 50% on pre‐pandemic levels and ‘power drill’ up 21%.

One of the most interesting things about all these ‘good news’ statistics is that we are now seeing really insightful profiling data on the consumers involved, meaning that both suppliers and retailers are in a position to maximise the effectiveness of their marketing and thereby maximise their share of this potentially lucrative home improvement pie.

Most home improvement spenders are likely to be in the older age groups and be relatively affluent.

There is however a significant niche of younger people including first time buyers and renters who have entered the market as never before. The value of these consumers stretches beyond their income and life‐stage and into their attitudes, with almost a third of them acknowledging just how aspirational they are, something which manifests itself in an active focus on improving their home.

There are several motivations for this, which suppliers can tap into. One is investment – with the home and garden seen as not only emotionally central, but as a good, rational and ‘profitable’ place to put any available cash.

Another is the importance of home‐based entertaining. A whopping 59% of home improvers cite the need to have some‐ thing fit to show off as a key driver of their DIY enterprises.

The third reason is the almost ‘over‐familiarity’ with the home space that successive lockdowns combined with home work‐ ing has caused. Whether for practical or emotional reasons, we need to make changes to re‐stimulate enthusiasm and pride for our own spaces.

Latest data also reveals much about the factors driving purchase and the routes to market used by these millions of home improvers. 36% of those who have spent more than £2,000 on a project in the last year say that they get their ideas and informa‐ tion from traditional print home improvement magazines (TGI).

It is worth noting that all forms of media – not just online – have increased in influence over the last 18 months In terms of routes to market, there are cautious customers out there who are still avoiding indoor venues, which suggests that online purchase will remain higher than ever before at 25‐ 30% of the market for the rest of 2021 and beyond even if it drops back from its lockdown peaks. Several retailers have either announced or are actively working on shortening the time between purchase decision and getting the product into use still further. Depending on the category, however, we do have to remember that physical shops are still the dominant channel for retail overall, outstripping online by two to one in pounds terms, particularly in categories where products have an aesthetic appeal, or are part of an assembly, or need the browsing and the advice of an assisted purchase. There is also an increase in demand for tradespeople to ‘do it for me’ with bigger projects now being tackled as people become more confident about having ‘the professionals’ back in their homes and gardens.

Another trend noted by GlobalData is tools rental. While still in its infancy as a route to market, 3.3% of consumers have rented tools or equipment in the last year with 4.7% say that they are likely to do so in the year to come. Virtually unheard of just a few years ago, the effect of rental on the tools and fixings category is certainly something to watch and explore.

As the latest market data demonstrates, we are now well beyond the place where we speculated on how long the so‐ called ‘home improvement boom’ will last and wondering when the bubble would burst. Tools and fixings alongside other DIY and garden categories are enjoying a fundamental shift to the good. It is crucial that despite the supply challenges currently being faced, we observe the market very closely and shape our businesses accordingly.

For more information about BHETA and its market data, lobbying, networking, and business support opportunities, contact Zara Miah of BHETA Member Services on zm@bheta.co.uk or 0121 237 1130.

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

2022 FEATURES JANUARY issue 060

ENHANCED DIGITAL

Online catalogues, brochures and webshops IT services, software and e-business Electric vehicle fasteners and tools, and supply chain The Show must go on > new products & services round-up Advanced battery pack technology SHOW PREVIEW > International Hardware Fair Cologne 2022

FEBRUARY issue 061

PRINT EDITION

Rivets, rivet tools and rivet technology Hand tools and consumables IT services, software and e-business Building & Construction > Wood, chipboard and decking screws TERRITORY FOCUS > North America SHOW PREVIEW > International Hardware Fair Cologne 2022 SHOW PREVIEW > Taiwan International Fastener Show

MARCH issue 062

ENHANCED DIGITAL

Connected & smart tools Margin makers > tapes, sprays, disposable gloves & more SHOW PREVIEW> Wire Dusseldorf 2022

APRIL issue 063

PRINT EDITION

Fastener distribution special Nylon and plastic fixings and fasteners Drill & screwdriver bits Building & Construction > High tensile (HT) and bolt assemblies TERRITORY FOCUS > UK SHOW PREVIEW > Torque-Expo Telford Preview TERRITORY FOCUS > Taiwan SHOW PREVIEW > Wire Dusseldorf 2022 UK new tool launch supplement

MAY issue 064

ENHANCED DIGITAL

TERRITORY FOCUS > Nordic countries Special fasteners Structural engineering & structural fasteners

JUNE issue 065

PRINT EDITION

Nuts, washers and locking systems Tools > Made in Germany Machines & tooling Rail fasteners Building & Construction > ETAs and Accreditations Renewables > Fasteners and tools TERRITORY FOCUS > Italy SHOW PREVIEW > Innotrans

JULY/AUGUST issue 066

PRINT EDITION

Women in fasteners special > North America QC laboratory focus Oils, sprays and lubricants PREVIEW > International Fastener Expo Building & Construction > Timber engineering TERRITORY FOCUS > Netherlands & Benelux

SEPTEMBER issue 067

PRINT EDITION

Fastener manufacturing special Stainless steel fixings and fasteners Torque tools, technology & bolting Workwear, PPE and safety Building & Construction > Anchors Torque Rising Stars TERRITORY FOCUS > Eastern Europe SHOW PREVIEW > Fastener Fair Italy

OCTOBER issue 068

ENHANCED DIGITAL

Rivets, rivet tools and rivet technology Plugs, plasterboard and cavity fixings Janitorial supplies > Wipes, cleaners, sprays, etc

NOVEMBER issue 069

PRINT EDITION

C-parts, logistics and Kanban Production line tools (rivet guns, assembly tools, torque wrenches, etc) Battery technology & smart tools Automotive fasteners & tools Surface treatment and coatings Building & Construction > Adhesives, tapes, sealants and fillers Turkish fastener manufacturing SHOW PREVIEW > Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2022

DECEMBER

ENHANCED DIGITAL

SUSTAINABILITY SPECIAL > A special magazine on sustainable practices in the fastener and tool industries, covering company initiatives, ISO 14001 certification, recyclable packaging, end of life & related topics.

JANUARY 2023 issue 070

ENHANCED DIGITAL

Online catalogues, brochures and webshops IT services, software and e-business Electric vehicle fasteners and tools, and supply chain Advanced battery pack technology SHOW PREVIEW > Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2023

SUBMIT AN ARTICLE OR IDEA FOR CONSIDERATION TO jonathon@torque-expo.com

Don Quichotte products stand for the highest level of reliability.

Thanks to 100 years of experience in the industry, our users can benefit from innovative products with added value.

DIRECTORY SPOTLIGHTS Welcome to this month’s NEW ADDITIONS

Arma Fixing Systems I Hose and pipe clamps I Locking type P clamps I Ear clamps I Metal clips and brackets I Plastic and metal fasteners T +90 212 549 57 31-32 E info@armafixing.com W www.armafixing.com

Goebel Group I Blind RivetU I Blind Rivet Nuts I Rivet Setting Tools I 18V Cordless Riveting Tools I Lockbolts

ARMA FIXING SYSTEMS is an innovative and dynamic organisation manufacturing fixing clamps, hose clamps, retaining clamps, ear clamps, exhaust clamps, heavy duty clamps, metal clips, caged nuts, plastic fasteners, metal brackets and metal components. Our products offer innovative solutions for fluid systems, hydraulicpneumatic systems, air conditioning systems, generator and radiator applications as well as automotive, white goods, agriculture, marine, construction, machinery and petrochemical sectors.

The Goebel Group is a family-run and internationally active business group of joining and assembly technology. Considered specialists in the development of innovative and high-quality joining elements and corresponding processing systems, their friendly and experienced staff, representatives, and distribution partners take care that customers are satisfied and actively support the entire supply chain.

T +49211-245000-0 E info@goebel-group.com W www.goebel-group.com

Don Quichotte BV I Fastening and supporting I Connecting and distributing I Guiding and routing I Preventing and protecting

Short-term availability and direct order processing mean that we are able to help you as a strong, reliable and competent partner.

T +31 492 74 50 00 E info@don-quichotte.nl W www.don-quichotte.nl

Global Fasteners Limited launched in 2004 having gained 35 years’ experience within the Fastener Industry. Our ‘Hands On’ approach has enabled us to work closely with the customer, of whom we have listened to and understood their needs and requirements.

Global Fasteners Limited I Bolts & nuts I Security screws I Woodscrews I Machine screws I PPE T +44 (0) 1384 480793 E sales@global-fasteners.co.uk W www.globalfasteners.co.uk

Metabo (UK) Ltd I 12 Volt cordless tools I 18 Volt cordless tools I 18V Garden tools I Building trade and renovation I Metal craft and industry T +44 (0) 2380 732000 E info@metabo.co.uk W www.metabo.co.uk

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

Special print editorial exposure (Profile) included as part of the Directory package.

COST: Only £500 / $650 / €650 for the year

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

Having positive responses already received from our customers, we are confident, purchasing from a Single Source Supplier of Fastener and Consumable related products, there are significant cost and time saving initiatives to be enjoyed.

Metabo is a premium brand power tool manufacturer for professional users, specialising in metal, construction, woodworking and outdoor trades. With over 96 years of experience developing and manufacturing professional power tools – Metabo have established themselves as an innovation leader in battery pack technology offering the most powerful two-row 18V battery pack on the market – delivering 1,600 Watts of power for the most demanding of applications.

RMZ Holding is the Asian supplier located in Europe that you are looking for: 1) Because we provide European quality at Asian prices.

2) Because we deliver like Europeans, short and quick, and we produce like Asians, quantities for everyone. More than 270 worldwide clients confirm it.

14,000 tons per month produced.

Experience and know-how simply because we’ve dealt with Steel for more than a Century.

From scrap to the finished fastener – all in one hand.

SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY TO PROMOTE YOUR PRODUCTS TO OVER 12,000 INDUSTRY DECISION MAKERS

The high quality and easy fixing products allow effective, rapid work and therefore ensure the highest level of economy.

RMZ Austria I Loose nails I Coil nails I Screws I Bolts I Nuts T +43 1 402 68 11 - 0 E office@rmz.at W www.rmz.at

R

A Perry & Co Ltd I Threaded bar I Engineered fasteners I Hardware/architectural ironmongery I Chain & rope I Fasteners & fixings T +44 (0)1384 414 063 E sales@perrytrade.co.uk W www.perrytrade.co.uk

Abbott Fasteners Ltd I Stocked Imperial & Metric I All metal locking nuts including Vargal Philidas Stover I Largest stock of Genuine Helicoils in the UK T +44 (0) 1268 532 434 E sales@abbottfasteners.co.uk W www.abbottfasteners.co.uk

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS Appear in Torque’s print and digital magazines throughout the year

Albert Pasvahl ADI Supply Ltd Achilles Seibert I Hexagon socket screws/bolts I Hexagon head screws/bolts I Special/drawing parts

CALL+44 (0) 1727 739160 FOR MORE DETAILS

T +49 4193 8955 E info@achill-fasteners.com W www.achill-fasteners.com

I Resin anchors I Shield anchors I Through bolts I Window frame screws I CFA approved tester E sales@adisupply.co.uk W www.adisupply.co.uk

I Fit Bolts I Plugs I Brass I Knurled thumb screws I Special scews T +49 [0] 40-532852-0 E info@pasvahl.de W www.pasvahl.de

Apex Stainless Fasteners Ltd

I Carpentry wood screws I Carpentry wood spacer screws I Carpentry wood terrace screws

I Stainless steel fasteners & fixings I Aerotight nut I Stainless steel screws/nuts I Stainless steel washers

T + 39 (0)382 810280 E sales@ambrovit.it W www.ambrovit.it

T +44 (0) 1788 537979 E sales@apexstainless.com W www.apexstainless.com

T +44 (0) 117 972 8560 E sales@avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk W www.avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk

Bolt World Fasteners Ltd

Boltfast

BRALO UK Ltd

I Stainless Steel Fasteners & Fixings I Threaded Bar I Security Fasteners & Fixings I Wood/Masonry Screws I Electrical Cables

I 10.9 hex bolts/set I 10.9 allthread I Class 10 full nuts I Grade 10 nylocs I Thru hardened washers Din6916

I Blind Rivets I Insert Nuts I Rivets tools I Fastener and Fixing I Lockbolt and Structural Rivets

I Fasteners and fixings I UK Manufacturing I Small run special fasteners I Cage nut, captive and speed fasteners I Nylon and plastics fasteners

T +44 (0) 1375 767 780 E sales@boltworld.co.uk W www.boltworld.co.uk

T +44 (0) 1922 749 357 E info@boltfast.co.uk W www.boltfast.co.uk

T +44 121 567 3230 E info@bralo.com W www.bralo.com

T +44 (0) 1623 883 000 E sales@mechfast.co.uk W www.mechfast.co.uk

Bülte GmbH Kunststofferzeugnisse

CRC Industries UK Ltd.

Deligo

DS Fasteners Ltd

I Nylon screws I Nylon nuts I Nylon washers I Nylon bushings I Nylon spacers

I Lubricants I Anti-Corrosion & Paints I Degreasers & Cleaners I Metal Working I Made in the UK

I Wedge nuts I Channel nuts I Wire suspension systems I Heavy and light duty fixings I Electrical accessories

I All metal self locking nuts I Fine pitch nuts I High grade nylocs I Serrated flange bolts I Stover nuts

T (+49) 02591 / 91 94 - 0 E info@bulte.de W www.bulte.com

T +44 (0)1278 727272 E sales.uk@crcind.com W www.actioncan.com

T +44 (0) 1384 824100 E sales@deligo.co.uk W www.deligo.co.uk

T +44 (0) 1842 763 000 E nuts@dsfasteners.co.uk W www.dsfasteners.co.uk

Ambrovit Bolts + Screws

Avon Stainless Fasteners I Marine products I Stainless fasteners I Stainless steel semi-standard

Bodegraven Metaal N.V. S.A. I Threaded rods I Threaded studs I Studding I Allthread studs T +32 11 55 91 10 W www.bomet.com

BRESCO MECHFAST LIMITED

Eurotec GmbH I Deck construction and landscaping I Timber engineering I Wood construction screws I Wood connectors I System connections for cross laminated timber structures

FIXI Srl

Gesipa Blindniettechnik GmbH

Güde GmbH

I Threaded Inserts I Blind Rivets I Self-Clinching Fasteners I Welding Studs I Brass Inserts

I Blind rivets I Blind rivet nuts I Automatic riveting I Blind rivet tools I Setting process control

I Spring lock washers I Sperrkant washers I Sperrkant spring washers I Contact washers I Conical washers

T +49 2331 6245-0 E info@eurotec.team W www.eurotec.team

T +39 011.7072398 E info@fixi.it W www.fixi.it

T +49 (0) 6105 962 0 E info@gesipa.com W www.gesipa.com

T 0049 2391 9190-0 E info@guede.net W www.guede.net

Hafren Fasteners I Security fasteners & fixings I Bespoke special security fasteners I Security fastener tooling & accessories I Security fencing bolts T +44 (0)1686 621 300 E info@hafrenfasteners.com W www.hafrenfasteners.com

HARRISON & CLOUGH LTD

Harrison & Clough Ltd I Fasteners & Fixings I Hand Tools I Power Tool Accessories I Industrial Consumables T 0844 571 22 22 E sales@harclo.com W www.harclo.com

HJZ (ZANDVOORT DRAADINDUSTRIE BV) I Hardened (masonry) steel nails – blue/black and zinc plated I Stainless steel nails (304 & 316) I Aluminium nails I Red copper nails I Brass nails T +31 314 333441 E hjz@hjz.nl W www.hjz.nl

JET FAST COMPANY LIMITED I Rubber Nut-Insert I Metal Rivet Nut I Nylon Nut-Insert T +886-7-3740160 E jetfast@ms34.hinet.net W www.jetfast.com.tw

Klimas Sp. z o.o.

K-Engineering

KARAT INDUSTRIAL CORPORATION

Kebrell

I Allthread 1Mtr/3Mtr/3Ft I Washers I Nuts I Cup square I Roofing bolts

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

I Commercial fasteners & fixings I Automotive fasteners I Flange joint sets I Specials to drawing I 20,000 tonnes of stock

I Screws and fastening for wooden construction I Mechanical & Chemical Anchor I Fasteners for external insulations systems I Framework fasteners I System of fastenings for thermal and hydro insulation of flat roofs

T +44 (0) 1922 749 350 E info@k-engineering.co.uk W www.k-engineering.co.uk

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

T +44 (0) 121 526 6049 E kebrell@kebrell.co.uk W www.kebrell.co.uk

T +48 (34) 377 71 00 E marketing@wkret-met.com W www.klimas.com

MATATAKITOYO TOOL CO., LTD.

NE Fasteners Ltd

I Torque Tester I Digital Torque Wrench I Torque Wrench I Torque Screwdriver I Torque Multiplier

I Furniture Fasteners I Woodscrews I Kitting I Decking Screws I Drywall Screws

I Extensive standard socket screw range ex-stock I Master distributor for Unbrako products I Manufacturer of specials to drawing I All thread locking + finishes inc Zinc, Geomet, Delta etc...

T +886-4-2533-5893 E matatakitoyo@gmail.com W www.matatakitoyo.com

T +44 (0)121 559 8866 E nefasteners@aol.com W www.nefasteners.co.uk

T +44 (0) 121 515 0121 E sales@nssocketscrews.com W www.nssocketscrews.com

Lederer GmbH I Stainless steel fasteners I Special parts by drawing I C-parts management T +49/2333/8309-0 E info@lederer-online.com W www.lederer-online.com

SCHRODER

pgb-Europe nv OBTEC GmbH

OGL Computer

Peter Schröder GmbH

I Welding-studs I Cold-forming parts I Bolts I Screws I Rivets

I Fully Integrated ERP Software I Warehouse Management System I eCommerce Integration I Cyber Security I IT Solutions

I Inch Sized Fasteners I USA Fastener I MS – AN – Na I ASTM Standards I Special Screws and Parts

I Bolts & Nuts I Wood, chipboard and decking screws I Light duty anchors I Heavy duty anchors I Chemical anchors

T +49 2373/89-1236 E wennrich.stephan@obtec.eu W www.obtec.eu

T +44 (0) 1299 873873 E enquiries@ogl.co.uk W www.ogl.co.uk

T +49 713299600 E info@schroederschrauben.de W www.schroederschrauben.de

T +32 9 272 70 70 E info@pgb-europe.com W www.pgb-europe.com

Rapid Industrial Fasteners F. REYHER Nchfg. GmbH & Co. KG I Automotive Fasteners I DIN/EN/ISO Standard Articles I Galvanised Fasteners & Fixings I Stainless Steel Fasteners & Fixing I Wood & Construction screws

Scell-it Ltd

I Stainless steel fasteners and fixings

I Special fasteners and turned parts manufacturer I Duplex fasteners I Rapid manufacturing lead-times I Galvanised Threaded Bar I Galvanised Nuts, Bolts and Washers

T +44 (0)1342 410758 E info@pts-uk.com W www.pts-uk.com

T +44 (0) 121 501 3903 E manufacturing@rapidfast.co.uk W www.rapidfast.co.uk

T +49 40 853 630 E mail@reyher.de W www.reyher.de

T +44 (0) 1785 246539 E sales@scellit.co.uk W www.scellit.com

Precision Technology Supplies

I Heavy Duty Anchors I Chemical Anchors I Concrete Anchors I Rivets I Rivet Installation Tools

SERENCO I Tools & Tools Storage including Hand tools (Boxo and Metrinch) I Power tools and Air tools (Boxo and Powerhand) I Boosters (Powerstart) I Worklights (Powerhand) T +31 30 241 50 11 E sales@serenco.nl W www.serenco.com

Schäfer + Peters GmbH

Sheh Kai Precision Co., Ltd.

I Design software for anchoring I Structural timbers I Installation systems I Reinforced concrete

I Screws I Nuts I Washers I Bolts I Stainless steel

I Hammer Drill Bits I Bimetal Concrete Anchors I Carbon Steel Concrete Anchors I Bimetal Screws I Stainless Steel Screws

T +49 341 4424610 E info@sup-scs.de W www.sup-scs.de

T +49(0)7941 6094-0 E info@schaefer-peters.com W www.schaefer-peters.com

T 886-7-622 5669 E info@shehkai.com.tw W www.shehkai.com

S&P

Smith Our part in every solution

Bullough Smith Bullough

Socketfast

I Blanks and finished stock I Metric and inch in all grades I Non standard bolting I Special forgings I Stainless and special alloys

I Socket caps I Socket countersunks I Socket buttons I Socket shoulder screws I Socket flange buttons

T +44 (0)1942 520250 E sales@smithbullough.com W www.smithbullough.com

T +44 (0) 1922 749 363 E info@socketfast.co.uk W www.socketfast.co.uk

SPIROL Industries Ltd I Coiled Spring Pins I Inserts for Plastic I Compression Limiters I Disc Springs I Shims T +44 (0) 1536 444 800 F +44 (0) 1536 203 415 E info-uk@spirol.com W www.spirol.com

Stafa I Bolts/Structural bolts/HV bolts I Nuts I Washers I Screws I Threaded rods T +31 495 599 888 E info@stafa.nl W www.stafa.nl

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

I Huck® Lockbolts & Blind Structural Fasteners I Associated Tool Hire, Service & Repair I VVG / Rivdom Tool Distributor I Fasteners & Fixings I Sealants & Adhesives

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

T +44 (0) 115 932 4939 E sales@starfasteners.co.uk W www.starfasteners.co.uk

Taiwan Precision Fastener Co., Ltd.

Tecfi SpA

I Patented Wood Screw I Wood Screw I Mill Point Self-Drilling Screw I Self-Drilling Screw I Self-Tapping Screw

I Metal anchors & Concrete screws I Chemical anchors I Nylon plugs I Screws and connectors for wood I Screws and accessories for roofings

T +886-7-616-2089 E sales@taiwan-precisionfastener.com W taiwan-precision-fastener.com

T 0039 0823 88.33.38 E sales@tecfi.it W www.tecfi.it

TOBSTEEL GmbH

Testing machines and measuring devices for: I Bolts and fastening elements I Components I Materials I Custom applications

I Zinc alloy inserts I Steel inserts I Brass threaded inserts I Furniture connectors I Special turned parts

I Construction & Engineering Screws I Decking Screws I Screw-Tite Multi-Purpose Screws I Specialist & Bespoke Screws

I High corrosion resistant fasteners & fixings I Stainless steel A2, A4, 1.4571, 1.4462, 1.4529 I 1.4462 (DUPLEX), 1.4529 (HCR) I DIN 125, 127, 439, 912, 931, 933, 934, 976, 980, 985, 1587, 6334, 7991

T +49 211 209903-0 E test@test-gmbh.com W test-gmbh.com

T +44 (0) 121 4397329 E sales@theinsertcompany.com W www.theinsertcompany.com

T +44 (0) 1756 699 996 E sales@tite-fix.co.uk W www.tite-fix.co.uk

T +49 (0) 7941 6073-0 E info@tobsteel.com W www.tobsteel.com

TesT GmbH Testing Machines The Insert Company (UK) Limited

Tite-Fix Ltd

I Un threaded blanks I 10.9/12.9 Hex Bolt/Set I Din 6921 / ISO 4162 Hex Flge I Hardened Washers Din 6916/F436 I B7/L7 European Bolting

WPI Services BV

I Sheet Metal Fasteners I Enclosure Hardware I Plastic Hardware I Fasteners for Plastic I General Fasteners

I Packaging machines I Weighing machines I Counting machines I Packaging lines I Inspection machines

WASI GmbH Stainless steel fasteners/components I Standard parts (DIN / ISO etc.)

I Maritime accessories I Solar mounting systems I Special and drawing parts I Levelling adjustment elements

T +44 (0) 8454 811 800 E sales@trfastenings.com W www.trfastenings.com

T +44 (0)1902 544 480 E sales@victoryfasteners.com W www.victoryfasteners.com

T +31 703 067 100 E info@weighpack.nl W weighpackinternational.com

T +49(0)202 / 26 32-0 E info@wasi.de W www.wasi.de/en

Victory Fasteners Limited TR Fastenings

DIRECTORY

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

Advance Components

Alloy & Stainless Fasteners

I Palnut Push-On Fasteners I Cage Nuts I Threaded Inserts I Duplex Screws I Fulfillment Services

I Bolts / Nuts / Studs I Sockets I Washers I Bent Bolts I Specials

ND Industries, Inc.

T +1 (972) 446-5500 E sales@advancecomponents.com W www.advancecomponents.com

T +1 713 929 0480 E info@GoASF.com W www.GoASF.com

T +1 248 288 0000 E info@ndindustries.com W www.ndindustries.com

I Self-Locking & Sealing Fasteners I Adhesives & Sealants I Thread-Locking & Patch Products I NAS Fasteners

ZAGO Manufacturing Co. Volt Industrial Plastics I Nylon products I Plastic fasteners I Plastic nuts I Plastic washers I Plastic spacers T +1 (870) 449-8027 W www.voltplastics.com

I Sealing Screws I Sealing Nuts I Sealing Washers I Security/Tamper-Proof Seal Screws I Switch Boots T +1 (973) 643-6700 E info@zago.com W www.zago.com

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

COST: Only SPECIAL PRINT EDITORIAL EXPOSURE (PROFILE) INCLUDED AS PART OF THE DIRECTORY PACKAGE.

£500 / $650 / €650 for the year

COMING THIS NOVEMBER

THE SHOW MUST GO ON...

...IN PRINT 2021 has seen some innovative new products and services launched by fastener and fixing companies, though sadly there have been no global trade shows to tell customers and potential customers all about them.

BUT THE SHOW GOES ON, IN PRINT AND ONLINE! Torque Magazine will round-up the new products, services and changes that fastener, fixing and related companies have introduced in 2021 with a special feature and supplement in the November print issue.

Editorial will be mirrored in Torque Magazine’s digital issue and also in the Torque Newsletter.

GUARANTEED PRESENCE IN 2 ISSUES – NOVEMBER PRINT AND JANUARY DIGITAL 200 words each + image/company logo + contact details Price €475 in total

Contact the team to find out more Harry Whyte >

Claire Warman >

Tom Keenan >

harry.whyte@torque-expo.com

claire@torque-expo.co.uk

tom@torque-expo.com

TORQUE COMMUNITY

Apprentice

Q&A

Callum Gunningham TR Fastenings Warehouse Operative Apprentice, Callum Gunningham, talks training and career prospects at Lancaster Fasteners in our latest Apprentice Q&A...

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH THE COMPANY? Approximately four months (as of 16th August 2021).

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO JOIN THE FASTENER INDUSTRY? I did not make a conscious decision to join this industry but my first few weeks have given me a valuable insight into how vast it is, across the globe. Most manufactured products will have some form of fastener within them, anything from mobile phones to wind turbines and I find it very interesting.

HOW MUCH OF THE JOB CURRENTLY INVOLVES TRAINING? Currently, I am learning on the job from experienced warehouse staff. There is always something new to learn. I also have a monthly meeting with my college tutor where we cover the academic aspects of my apprenticeship, for example, Health and Safety.

MILESTONES > Crane Electronics hits 50th anniversary

WHAT DOES A REGULAR DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU AS AN APPRENTICE AT LANCASTER FASTENERS? I feel I am now contributing to the workload and helping to get orders out. This involves attention to detail in locating stock, picking, counting out accurately the required quantity and ensuring that the packaging meets the Company stan‐ dards. I enjoy using the warehouse’s computer technology to print labels and then despatch the goods – continually checking for accuracy and that all documents match.

// I hope to be taken on as a fully qualified warehouse operative and grow with the company taking opportunities to advance my career as they arise. // WAS THERE A LOT OF COMPETITION WHEN APPLYING FOR THE COMPANY'S PROGRAMME? I am not aware of how many people applied for the position.

WHAT ARE THE PROSPECTS AFTER COMPLETING YOUR APPRENTICESHIP? I hope to be taken on as a fully qualified warehouse opera‐ tive and grow with the company taking opportunities to advance my career as they arise.

WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT BEING A TRAINEE AT LANCASTER FASTENER? A good opportunity to learn new skills in different aspects of warehousing. From day one everyone was very welcom‐ ing and I get the support I need on a day‐to‐day basis from the more experienced staff. www.trfastenings.com

T

orque measurement, control and quality auditing solutions specialist Crane Elec‐ tronics is celebrating 50 years in business.

After starting out as a small UK‐based company, Crane Electronics has gone on to grow into a truly global company. With head offices in Hinckley, UK and in Illinois, USA, Crane has also established long‐term partner‐ ships throughout the world.

It was established 4 November 1971 by David Crane at his home in Twycross, before moving to larger factory premises shortly after in Stoke Golding, Leicestershire. This was Crane’s home until the early ‘90s before moving to Hinckley, where it expanded further into larger premises in 2003, its current home.

torque-expo.com

97

MILESTONES > Crane Electronics continued...

Over the years, Crane Electronics has created and introduced a series of important products into the torque measurement industry, from reportedly the world’s first ‘smart’ transducers in the 1970s, the revolutionary CheckStar rotary torque transducers in the 1980s, the innovative TorqueStar data collectors through the ‘90s, to the current digital torque wrenches.

Today, Crane Electronics works with some of the world’s biggest manufacturing brands in a wide range of industries including automotive, aerospace, construction, marine, rail and general industry. With a diverse product range and first‐ class service, Crane delivers complete torque management, measurement and control solutions to help manufacturers improve their quality, safety and traceability and to increase productivity.

Crane’s current product range includes torque wrenches, trans‐ ducers, data collectors, torque testers, analysers and complete system software packages. This positions Crane Electronics as a go‐to solutions provider for tool capability assessment, process

A Perry & Co (Hinges) Ltd 23 Achilles Seibert GmbH 71 Albert Pasvahl GmbH & Co 15 Alloy & Stainless Fasteners 61 Ambrovit SpA 77 Apex Stainless Fasteners Ltd 67 Aptus Fastener Systems UK Ltd 31 Avon Stainless Fasteners Ltd 65 Bäcker GmbH & Co KG 27 Berardi Bullonerie Srl 79 Birlik Baglanti Elemanlari Ltd 89 Bollhoff Fastenings Ltd 53 Bralo SA 47 Bülte GmbH 49 D S Fasteners Ltd 23 Dongguan Grand Metal Manufactory (G M M) 61 EuroTec GmbH 03 FAR Srl 45-45 Fastener Fair USA Reed Exhibitions 58 Fixi Srl 59 G W I GmbH 21 Garton Ltd t/a Smith Bullough 49 Güde GmbH 33 Hafren Security Fasteners 21 HECO-Schrauben GmbH & Co KG 21 HEICO Befestigungstechnik GmbH 19 Hexstone Ltd 100 Insulated Tools Ltd INSERT Klimas Sp Zoo 87 Lederer GmbH 08, 10

capability assessment and control, and process verification, it says.

Adrian Duffin, Managing Director at Crane Electronics says: “Everybody at Crane is extremely proud of our 50th Anniversary.

Over the years, we have helped many customers in several industries with innovative solutions. These have enabled customers to improve their products and quality and importantly given them reassur‐ ance that their processes are safe.

“The way we deal with others is important to us. We pride ourselves on respecting and appreciating our employees, customers, suppli‐ ers and partners, working together to find the best way forward. Sometimes we just provide a friendly face for advice! What we offer and the way that we do it has proved to be a good recipe for the first 50 years, so why change it? There are many more products in development and we’re always here to help.

I couldn’t be more excited about the next 50 years!” www.crane-electronics.com

Martyn Price Fasteners

15

Mecavit Srl

55

ND Industries

02

Non Standard Socket Screw Ltd

73

Nord-Lock International AB

11

OBTEC GmbH

47

Optimas O E Solutions Ltd

29

P G B Europe NV

07

Part-On Tools Ltd

37

Peter Schröder GmbH

23

Pühl GmbH & Co KG

17

Rapid Industrial Fasteners Ltd

25

Rivit Srl

99

RMZ Vertriebsgesellschaft mbH

43

Rotor Clip Ltd

13

Royd Toolgroup UK Ltd

83

Scell-It (UK) Ltd

09

Schäfer + Peters GmbH

01

Sheh Kai Precision Co Ltd

83

AD INDEX

Spirol UK *

41

ISSUE 057

Stahlwille Eduard Wille GmbH & Co KG

57

September-October 2021

Teckentrup GmbH & Co KG

49

Teudeloff GMBH & Co. KG

41

The Insert Company (UK) Ltd

05

Tobsteel GmbH

73

Troy (UK) Ltd

79

Universal Precision Screws

71

ZaGO Manufacturing Co Inc

43

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