issue 049 / November-December 2020

fasteners tools distribution magazine

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 • Customer Service Driven
• Vertically Integrated
• Innovative Products
• Global Presence

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

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

From two base products in 1965 to currently over two hundred

twenty, ND continues its tradition of cutting edge research and
development with the regular introduction of unique materials
along with competitive brand offsets.

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

THERMOSEAL™ AUTHORIZED
A high temperature, high pressure thread sealant which withstands up to
40MPa. Offering thread locking breakaway torques greater than 20Nm
APPLICATOR
and a maximum temperature of 428°F (220°C). Thermoseal is an Did you know that ND is an approved 3M
extremely versatile product for challenging sealing conditions. applicator? Further proof why ND should be
your one stop shop for pre-applied fasteners.

THERMOLOC® 1500
ND’s highest temperature chemical threadlocker. Initially performs like
a vibration dampening compound. Once temperatures reach 750°F
(400°C), a secondary activation begins, causing the fastener to be
permanently locked in place. Tested to over 1500°F (850°C).
 ND PATCH® HI-TEMP
Highest temperature pre-applied nylon threadlocker in the industry. Unlike the competition,
ND’s application process requires only 120°C, preventing plating damage. However, once
crosslinked, it can withstand temps up to 260°C. Meets MIL-DTL-18240F / QPL-18240.

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

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

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

EXPAND-A-LOCK®
A unique pre-applied microencapsulated expanding threadlocking & sealing
compound. Increases in volume 20-50% on installation, penetrating the
gaps in fastener threads typically unfilled by conventional threadlockers.
Scan QR Code
for more info.

EXPAND-A-SLEEVE™
CONTACT US Extruded ND Mastics are pre-applied to fasteners (threaded or non-threaded),
bound for e-cote cycles. Heat from the process causes the material to expand,
www.ndindustries.com
sealing large leak paths between fastener and assembly.
www.vibra-tite.com
info@ndindustries.com

VIBRA-TITE® PRODUCTS
Vibra-Tite, the bottled product division of ND Industries, is one of the
world’s market leaders in anaerobics, cyanoacrylates, epoxies, and ultra-
violet technologies.
 INSIDE THIS ISSUE

08 NEWS

12 WOMEN IN FASTENERS >

DIANA SCHOLEFIELD > GESIPA UK IT’S GOOD TO TALK... AND LISTEN
16 ACCU >
COUPLING EVERGREEN SUPPLY What people think a job entails often doesn’t
PRINCIPLES AND A MODERN APPROACH match up to the day-to-day reality. Racing
Publisher TO PRECISION COMPONENTS drivers likely spend more time talking about tyre
Jerry Ramsdale
jerry@torque-expo.com 20 GUEST EDITOR CHOICE > treads in offices than behind the steering wheel
Editor REDUCING LIFECYCLE COSTS WITH and actually racing. Similarly, film stars spend
Jonathon Harker DUPLEX STAINLESS STEEL FASTENERS more time waiting around on set than acting.
jonathon@torque-expo.com Possibly, you may imagine a magazine editor
20 COATING AND PLATING >
Staff Writer spends all day typing furiously while shouting
Liberty Sheldon
libby@torque-expo.com 22 C-PARTS, LOGISTICS AND KANBAN > at junior staff members (that’s what I was
Sales Manager – UK
promised, anyway). The reality is that there’s
Claire Warman 30 25 YEARS IN FASTENERS > a lot of organising involved and – probably the
claire@torque-expo.co.uk FEATURING APEX STAINLESS FASTENERS, crucial bit – plenty of listening too. Being good
Sales Manager – International OWLETT-JATON, HAFREN,
25 at listening is not up there with the skillset of a
Harry Whyte TITE-FIX, DELTALEIGH & OUR
harry.whyte@torque-expo.com OWN JERRY RAMSDALE
YEARS
IN FASTENERS
pilot, maybe, but being able to gently prompt
Sales Manager – USA & UK interview subjects, encouraging them to pick
Tom Keenan 44 AUTOMOTIVE FASTENERS AND TOOLS > up on a detail and generally shutting up and
tom@torque-expo.com ACCU, BRALO & NORMA letting your interviewee speak is essential.
Circulation
52 MANUFACTURING >
So, in one sense, this issue of Torque Magazine
Tracy Howell
tracy@torque-expo.com PRINZ, RFKS & KALELILER has been easy to put together, because I’ve
Head of Production spent a lot of time listening over phone and video
Luke Wikner 56 INTERVIEW > calls. This month I’ve mainly been listening to
luke@torque-expo.com GESIPA MANAGING DIRECTOR fastener industry executives regaling me with
Designers URS LANGENAUER
Dan Bennett
stories of the past quarter century (for our
dan.bennett@torque-expo.com 62 BUILDING & CONTRUCTION > special 25 years in fasteners feature, commem-
Tina Ries FISCHER + ADHESIVES, TAPES, orating the start of Fastener Fair, starting on
tina@torque-expo.com SEALANTS AND FILLERS page 30) and, perhaps more pertinently, putting
Victoria Arellano
victoria@torque-expo.com 66 INSPECTION & QUALITY ASSURANCE >
their years of experience and insight to work and
giving us a few predictions for the next five or
Published by 68 BHETA > even 25 years.
Stag Publications Ltd Listening to customers and colleagues is a
18 Alban Park 76 TORQUE MAGAZINE IN 2021 >
Hatfield Road
loose theme to this month’s issue and we’ve
St Albans been responding to what our readers and
Herts AL4 0JJ supporters have been saying in our 2021 plans
tel: +44 (0)1727 739160
fax: +44 (0)1727 739169
Email: info@torque-expo.com
GUEST (page 76). We hope you enjoy this magazine and
we’re ‘all ears’ if you want to
Web: www.torque-expo.com
Disclaimer
Although the utmost care is taken to
EDITOR drop us a line.

ensure that information contained herein

is accurate and up to date, the Publisher This issue’s Guest Editor is Lars Holm,
cannot be held responsible or in any way
liable for errors or omissions during
new Managing Director of BUMAX
input or printing of any material supplied Turn to page 6 for his insight into the market
or contained herein. The Publisher also
cannot be held liable for any claims made Turn to page 20 for the ‘Guest Editor Choice’ – a
by advertisers or in contributions from special feature chosen by Lars Holm himself.
individuals or companies submitted for Jonathon Harker
inclusion within this publication. The opin-
ions expressed are not necessarily those Editor
of the Editor or of Stag Publications Ltd. jonathon@torque-expo.com
Proud member of: To subscribe to
Torque Magazine visit:
torque-expo.com/subscribe/
or scan this QR code...

Copyright
Entire contents copyright © 2020 Stag Publications. No As part of our commitment to the
part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a
retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any
environment, Torque Magazine
means without the prior permission of the publisher. is fully recyclable.

04 torque-expo.com
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Unheaded Screw-in Unheaded Hex-Drive Type E

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 GUEST EDITOR COMMENT

LARS HOLM, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF BUMAX, IS GUEST EDITOR

OF THIS ISSUE OF TORQUE MAGAZINE

HOW SUSTAINABILITY
WILL DOUBLE SALES
AT BUMAX

AS OF 1 October, I am Managing Director of premium fastener manufacturer BUMAX of Sweden. With

a strong sales background from industries such as logistics, manufacturing, adhesive and tooling
industries, my primary objective is to have even more companies discover the benefits of our range of
high-strength and corrosion-resistant stainless steel fasteners. My focus is to proactively drive sales
with a focus on sustainability – and to solve more of the world’s most challenging fastener issues out
there along the way.
We already have some of the world’s leading brands in our customer base, but the importance of
fasteners for sustainability will put us in an even better position to gain market share and substantially
increase sales.

INCREASED FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY

Fasteners need to be durable and need to last for as long as possible. The global cost of corrosion exceeds
US$2.5 trillion annually, or three percent of global GDP. In addition, the environmental consequences of
poor-quality fasteners that require maintenance and replacement are enormous. There is increasing
awareness of the benefits of using high quality fasteners in the construction, vehicle, marine, energy and
engineering industries all around the world. High quality fasteners reduce maintenance, have longer lifes-
pans and help avoid potentially catastrophic fastener failure to significantly decrease lifecycle costs.
Our own sustainability program has been running for nearly ten years now and we have managed to
reduce the energy used for heating and electricity
at our facility in Åshammar in the Swedish ‘steel
belt’ by over 50% – to significantly reduce our
// We have kept our factory open
carbon footprint. and operational throughout the
corona crisis with no delays or
MORE RESILIENT SUPPLY CHAINS
I firmly believe we have the potential to drive our
disruptions to production. //
sales by taking a more aggressive approach to
marketing. I believe we can double our turnover in the next five years. With the supply chain disruptions
experienced during the corona crisis, I believe that many customers would be interested in developing
a solid and dependable supplier based in northern Europe. We have kept our factory open and opera-
tional throughout the corona crisis with no delays or disruptions to production.
So, besides a much stronger focus on quality and sustainability, I think companies are taking a long
hard look at their supply chains. Where can we find the most reliable source of high-quality fasteners
for our products and projects? Let the Northern Lights guide you.

Lars Holm TURN TO PAGE 18

Managing Director of BUMAX FOR A SPECIAL FEATURE
www.bumax-fasteners.com COMMISSIONED BY GUEST
EDITOR LARS HOLM HIMSELF.

06 torque-expo.com
 THINK BIG

IF YOU CAN DREAM IT, YOU CAN DO IT.

Walt Disney

žĈńƪŕōÝžŕńĭāŴÝŸƇōĈŸƤĩŕɕğŕŸŕƣĈŸɀȾƪĈÝŸžɕĩÝžùĈĈōÝńĈÝāĈŸĭōƇĩĈƼĈńāŕğùŕńƇžÝōāžûŸĈƤžĭōƇĩĈ
UƇÝńĭÝōÝōā1ƍŸŕŴĈÝōŋÝŸŀĈƇɚ{ƍŸûÝƇÝńŕġƍĈĭōûńƍāĈžɔāŸƪƤÝńńžûŸĈƤžɕûÝŸŴĈōƇŸƪÝōāûĩĭŴùŕÝŸāžûŸĈƤžɕ
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AMBROVIT: YOUR BUSINESS PARTNER FOR FASTENING SYSTEMS

Ambrovit S.p.A. Italy A DEDICATED OPERATOR FOR ALL YOUR QUESTIONS Tel +39 (0) 382 810280 WWW.AMBROVIT.COM
 NEWS
News from the distribution industry…

www.torque-expo.com

BERARDI FASTENERS WELCOMES FIFTH GENERATION

B
erardi Fasteners CEO Giovanni
Berardi has revealed that the
family‐run fastener company has
now welcomed a fifth generation of the
founding family to the business.
Anastasia Berardi has joined the
Marketing Office and Cesare Berardi is
now working in the Logistics Depart‐
ment, while Bernardino Berardi has been
working in the Technical and Sales Offices
for some time. The trio are the children of
Francesco Berardi, as well as niece and
nephews of CEO Giovanni Berardi.
Giovanni Berardi and his brother
Francesco brought about significant
expansion of the company, building on explores the international market with CEO Giovanni Berardi said: “Our
the 1919‐established fastener business, its flexible working approach. Key to company has a dynamic heritage, an
founded by Giulio Berardi. The two Berardi’s development is the expansion ever‐evolving process, where know‐
brothers made the company grow and of the stock‐ready product range, with how and interpersonal relationships
assert itself among the leaders in the dedicated technical and logistical are as important as the energy and
market, opening as many as 12 branches support. innovation brought in by each person,
on Italian soil, three subsidiaries (Vibolt, Reportedly, family businesses at their to safeguard a business model that
Vitman and VIBF) and even an interna‐ third generation represent only 13% of responds to modern business needs,
tional branch in Morocco in 2017. Today, the total, while only 4% of them makes while maintaining its historical roots.”
the company keeps expanding and deep‐ it to the fourth. Berardi is among the
ening its industrial synergies, and very few to reach the fifth generation. www.berardi-screws-bolts.com

Torque puts boots on ground in Germany

E
xperienced fastener industry
executive Harry Whyte has relo‐
cated to his native Germany to
continue his role as Sales Manager for
International, for Torque Magazine.
The move means Torque Magazine
will, for the first time, have highly expe‐
rienced team members working full‐
time in mainland Europe and in the UK,
where the magazine is headquartered.
“After 20 great years in the UK, I am
excited to be based in Germany, in
order to serve my clients in Europe
more effectively,” said Whyte. “It also
means that Torque is prepared for
whatever the ‘Brexit hurdle’ will throw
at us as we’ve got facilities on both
sides of the Channel.”
There is more detail on page 76.

Stainless steel fasteners.

ers..
Edelstahl-
Verbindungselemente.
Standard and non-standard items NEW
Norm- und Standardteile NEU
m
rer-shop.co
DIN, ISO, EN and others / und andere
| lede
Special parts and special materials Shop 2020 Bestands-e
Mail
advice tei-Upload
Sonderteile / Sonderwerkstoffe availability hn ellbestellung / Da
Sc
/ file upload talogsei ten
quickorder verlinkte Ka
linked pdf pages
back

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

 Nuts
Fastener people with the stock and knowledge to solve every requirement
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 NEWS
News from the distribution industry www.torque-expo.com

Philidas picks PTS

Bülte unveils
PEEK range
P lastic protection and fastener specialist Bülte has
launched a new range using organic thermoplastic
polymer for engineer applications, PEEK.
PEEK is a thermoplastic with excellent mechanical and

P recision Technology Supplies Ltd has been appointed as

a distributor of Stainless Steel Philidas Nuts. Philidas is
among the leading all‐metal self‐locking nut manufacturers in
the world, specialising in the design and manufacture of self‐
locking nuts for numerous industrial and domestic applications,
including automotive, railways, earth moving equipment, elec‐
trical appliances, off highway vehicles, mining and aerospace.
Philidas Nuts lock at any position on a bolt and are, there‐
fore, a convenient and practical fastening method for modern
industry, particularly where vibration is a problem. They also
help reduce assembly time, are less expensive and use few
components than alternative methods, says the brand. Phil‐
idas products are specified by Network Rail and other OEMs
for use in safety critical applications.
PTS said: “Philidas is recognised as a quality brand and this
links well with the likes of Bumax and Nordlock already
offered as part of PTS’s product range. For more information
visit our website www.pts‐uk.com or contact us on
sales@pts‐uk.com.”
chemical resistance properties that are retained to high
temperatures (oils, hydrocarbures). The highly robust
material can fabricate items for demanding applications,
including bearings, piston parts, pumps, compressor plate
valves and electrical cable insulation.
Due to its low flammability (UL 94), it is one of the few
plastics compatible with ultra‐high vacuum applications,
which makes it suitable for many types of industries. PEEK
is also considered as an advanced biomaterial used in
medical implants. It also has a lower density than metal,
which makes it an excellent substitute when weight is a
limiting factor in the final product.
Bülte’s product range in PEEK material includes washers,
hex socket head screws, hex head screws and hex nuts. There
are more details via info@bulte.com or find out more in
Torque Magazine’s October issue www.torque-expo.com/
magazines
www.bulte.com

Stainless steel fasteners.

Edelstahl-Verbindungselemente.
Eléments d’assemblage en acier inox.
Viteria in acciaio inossidabile.
Elementos de sujeción de acero inoxidable.
Verbindingselementen roestvast staal.
Łączniki ze stali nierdzewnej. www.love-fasteners.com
Spojovací materiál z nerezové oceli.
Rozsdamentes acél kötőelemek. Lederer GmbH | Katzbachstraße 4 | 58256 Ennepetal, Germany
Spojovací materiál z nerezovej ocele. +49 (0)2333/8309-0 | info@lederer-online.com
 WE
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FASTENERS

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INTERVIEW WOMEN IN FASTENERS
DIANA
SCHOLEFIELD
Diana Scholefield discusses her career highlights, Brexit and the importance of introducing
young women into the manufacturing world with Torque Magazine…
How did you first get into the fastener industry?
I started at GESIPA as a Project Engineer in 1995 after doing
a Mechanical Engineering degree. I was working on various
fastener projects and process improvements. I then moved
into Quality in 1998 when GESIPA was wanting to implement
the QS9000 quality standard. Working in quality is, in my
opinion a great learning experience, as you are working with
customers and the teams internally in high pressure situa‐
tions, solving quality issues. I then moved into Commercial
Operations in 2000 being the bridge between the external
technical teams and the customer requirements and develop‐
ing the design internally with the various Gesipa teams. In
2014, I became Managing Director and am very proud of what
the team in Keighley have achieved.
What does your day-to-day job involve?
My day‐to‐day job includes managing the business. I could be
speaking with customers, suppliers or colleagues across the
Group in various countries or working on a project with one
of our internal teams. This is what is so great about this posi‐
tion, every day is different.
// I am also passionate about
getting young women
interested in manufacturing
and engineering. It is a
great career and will lead
to many places. //
12 torque-expo.com
You have children, but would you say that GESIPA is a
family friendly company?
I have two children and throughout my career where I needed
to change my hours to fit with childcare arrangements,
GESIPA worked with me to find a solution that worked for
both sides. GESIPA is a family friendly company but I think it
is about communicating together to find the right solution
that works. It is also about being flexible and I believe that
having the correct work ethic goes a long way.
What are the biggest changes you have seen in the
industry and/or the company since you started?
GESIPA UK moved from making rivets and threaded fasteners
to just making threaded fasteners. This was a huge change for
the employees of GESIPA as we had made rivets since the
company started in 1971. We did this over a period of time and
worked with the plant in Germany to ensure a smooth transi‐
tion. It was a huge leap to produce only the threaded fasteners
and the structural rivets at the Keighley plant, but we believed
it was the correct strategy to take and it has certainly paid
off. From an industry perspective the biggest change has been
 Schäfer + Peters GmbH
Competence in Stainless Steel

Schäfer + Peters GmbH Tel. +49 (0) 7941 6094-0 E-Mail: info@schaefer-peters.com Web: www.schaefer-peters.com
INTERVIEW WOMEN IN FASTENERS
GESIPA UK stopped the production of rivets to
focus on the manufacture of threaded fasteners
the change in materials to be fastened and the ever‐changing
requirements of the fasteners. Also, the tooling to set the rivets,
rivet nuts and rivet nut studs and the development and how
smart that tooling is now.
Can you share some of your career highlights and mile-
stones so far?
One of the highlights of my career is the different countries
that work has taken me to – China, USA, Switzerland, Sweden
and Dubai to name but a few and working with the Group
across the world and the different cultures. Another highlight
was getting my MBA whilst my children were young. I wanted
to do this to give me a business qualification to go with my
Engineering Degree. The main highlight was actually becoming
MD of GESIPA Keighley. I am passionate about our products
and what we do.
How does GESIPA bring in new talent from a variety of back-
grounds? Do you think this is a challenge for the industry?
One of the things I am passionate about is getting young people
interested in engineering and manufacturing. We work closely
with local secondary schools and Keighley college offering
workshops and insights into manufacturing and the world of
work. I am also passionate about getting young women inter‐
ested in manufacturing and engineering. It is a great career and
will lead to many places! We also offer apprenticeships and at
the moment we have four apprentices in various areas – quality,
customer service, marketing, and maintenance. By working
with young people, we hope that when they see our name in
job adverts they have a recognition of GESIPA, you also never
know where these young people will end up working!
Overall, women are still underrepresented in management
positions globally, do you think this is the same for the UK?
And why?
I do think women are underrepresented in management, but
it is becoming more common.
How did you find the coronavirus period apart from the
economic consequences?
Our biggest concern was keeping our employees safe. It was a
very uncertain time and like nothing I had ever experienced
before. We stopped certain production sections for a short
14 torque-expo.com
// We need to ensure that
we make it as simple as possible
for our customers outside of
the UK to continue to
work with us. //
period, and you don't realise that the machines aren't running
until you hear the silence. It was also a constantly moving land‐
scape but being members of Make UK was very useful as they
us kept very up to date with the government schemes and
advised. We worked closely with our supply chain to ensure
that we could supply our customers that were still running. It
was a very stressful and uncertain time, but we are all here
and healthy.
What plans does the company have for the next 12 months?
Our plan for the next 12 months is to manage Brexit and the
challenges that that will bring. We need to ensure that we
make it as simple as possible for our customers outside of the
UK to continue to work with us. We are also continually
improving our processes and it is great to see the outcomes of
these improvements.
What is your favourite thing about the fastener industry?
I love the challenge of solving customers fastening require‐
ments. You think that there cannot be another variant of a
certain type of fastener and then an application is brought in
that requires something extra – and seeing the design be
manufactured and then work is a great feeling.
Any final thoughts?
I would advise anyone to do engineering and work in fasten‐
ers, it can open up so many opportunities and if I had my time
again I would do exactly the same.
www.gesipa.co.uk
COVER PROFILE
ACCU

“QUALITY, SERVICE
AND EFFICIENCY
ARE EVERYTHING”
Accu has coup
coupled evergreen supply principles
with a very modern approach to the
precision components supply business.
precisio
Torque
T
To r ue Magazine speaks with Accu Co-
rq
Founder Martin Ackroyd about how the
Founde
rapidly growing business was
conceived and how it is tackling
Covid-19 while simultaneously
readying for Brexit…

A
ccu is one of the world’s leading preci‐
sion component suppliers. Founded
in 2012, Accu has shipped more than
50 million components to 50% of the world’s
100 largest manufacturers; and to more than
15
150 countries worldwide.
Able to design, engineer and deliver prototypes
for
f r exacting components, Accu is renowned in a number
fo
of industries
industries, such as motorsport, space, education and
medicine. Its components have been used in ventilators in
the fight
f ght against
fi agains COVID‐19 and for the UCL Mars Rover. Co‐
Founder Martin A Ackroyd explains to Torque Magazine how the
firm
f rm has come so far in eight years…
fi

In such a traditional
tradit sector as the component industry,
why did you
y u decide
yo de to invest in a strong digital presence?
Accu was founded
f und on the basis that the almost archaic engi‐
fo
neering compo
component industry was ready for a shake‐up. I’d
spent years in the precision engineering sector, where
stac of paper catalogues on your desk was
having a stack
commonplace and generally considered an essential
commonplace,
‘weapon’ in the design engineer’s arsenal. I knew that
there had to be a better, more efficient way. I wanted to
th process of finding the perfect components,
streamline the
so that engineers
engine could spend more time innovating. I knew
that not only would
w it have a positive impact on engineers,
an industry as a whole.
but businesses and

16 torque-expo.com
 Our real digital strength happens behind the scenes. We
employ more programmers than sales staff, and they’re mostly
working on internal tools that run end‐to‐end operations. We’re
heavy on digital innovation and automation to drive efficiency.
The fastener industry, in particular, is compliant with the tradi‐
tional, outdated idea that components are sold in standard pack
sizes, and that’s just the way it is. But that’s not particularly
useful when an engineer is at the prototyping stage of the design
cycle, so our warehouse utilises custom‐built technology to
allow us to offer a unique “pic’n’mix” choice to our customers ‐
they can buy a single component, or they can buy thousands.
This minimises waste, increases efficiency and means that we
are a very good option when it comes to prototyping.
An unintentional by‐product of being digital is the huge
potential to scale quickly. When we add a new component
range, we’re not thinking about expensive catalogue reprints
and distribution. We can focus purely on the benefit to our
customers: does this component solve a customer’s problem?
Is it high in accuracy? Does it have industry‐leading reliability?
Those are the things that are important.
You supply components to 50% of the world’s 100 largest
manufacturers. Why do you think you’ve seen such
success in a relatively short period of time?
This might come as a shock, but we never set out to actively
target the blue‐chip manufacturers. We don’t have sales execs
on the road and we’re not a pushy sales team. Our customers
come to us because we can provide something that they need.
Whether we’re working with an innovator, prototyping the
next big thing in their garage, or a huge manufacturer, they're
all looking for the same thing ‐ a personal, customer‐centric
experience that saves engineers’ time.
When it comes to big scale manufacture, precision compo‐
nents are usually a very small piece of the bigger supply chain,
so we know that quality, service and efficiency is everything ‐
they just need to be delivered on time and work as intended.
We’ve focused on building the best customer experience by
reducing the time it takes to identify and buy components, allow‐
ing small prototyping quantities and offering fast delivery. For
example, we’ve created AccuPro, allowing regular customers to
get next day delivery for an entire year, for just £30.
During the Covid lockdown, your business performed well.
Can you explain what happened?
Accu’s objective is to be the prototyping partner for all engi‐
neers. Covid has united the globe in a joint effort to tackle the
virus. It caused a wave of ground‐breaking medical innovation
that we were lucky enough to play a key role in. The most
rewarding part of working at Accu is that I get to see the amaz‐
ing achievements of our customers and the positive change they
bring to the world, that’s never been truer than this year.
As a result, we’ve seen a 60% year‐on‐year increase in the
number of orders being processed in our warehouse. Opera‐
tionally, it’s been a challenge and has meant we’ve had to adapt
quickly to keep our service high and our staff safe.
Given how much has changed in the last eight months, how
will Accu look in five years’ time?
This year, more than others, has shown how hard it is to
predict the future. Above everything, we want to stay technol‐
ogy‐focused and be adaptable to new challenges and opportu‐
nities. It’s really important that we continue to offer improved
efficiency to our customers and be able to respond quickly to
whatever our customers need.
// A by-product of being digital is
the huge potential to scale quickly.
When we add a new component
range, we're not thinking about
expensive catalogue reprints and
distribution. //
At the start of 2021, we’re really excited to be launching a
major revision to our ecommerce platform, aimed at making
it even easier to find the perfect component. In parallel, the
team is working hard on our internal systems too, to bring
even more automation and accuracy to our daily operations.
Going forward, localised distribution is going to play a key part
in improving our service level. The closer we can get to our global
customers, the quicker we can get components into their hands.
Right now, we have 24/7 customer service split between the UK
and US, but distribution all happens from our UK warehouse.
Speaking of the future, do you expect Brexit to affect Accu?
Brexit really is around the corner and has been massively over‐
shadowed by Covid‐19. Having said that, as a business, we’re
well prepared. Our stock levels are higher than they’ve ever
been, and we’ve got everything in place to make the transition
as smooth as possible.
We’ve got an extremely strong and diverse supply chain. Our
top component lines have two backup manufacturing sources,
and in the unlikely event that doesn’t go far enough, our Made‐
ByAccu service can manufacture any components on a short
lead‐time.
The EU isn’t one of our key geographical markets but
supporting new and existing customers through Brexit is going
to be a major focus at the start of 2021.
www.accu.co.uk
torque-expo.com 17
 Guest Editor’s choice
REDUCING LIFECYCLE
COSTS WITH DUPLEX
STAINLESS STEEL
FASTENERS
This month’s Guest Editor of Torque Magazine – BUMAX Managing
Director Lars Holm – looks at how duplex stainless steel plays a vital
role in the efficiency, sustainability and longevity of fasteners…
S
ustainability and life cycle analyses are becoming
increasingly important in the fastener industry – not only
because it is good for the planet but also since customers
demand it. Here duplex stainless steel fasteners can play a
crucial role. They combine super high strength, excellent ductil‐
ity and corrosion resistance – to reduce lifecycle costs in
demanding applications compared with alloy steel fasteners.
INTRODUCING DUPLEX STAINLESS STEEL FASTENERS
Duplex stainless steel, also known as ferrite‐austenitic stainless
steel, is a family of stainless steel that has a two‐phase
microstructure containing ferrite and austenite. The mix of
ferritic and austenitic phase is roughly 50/50 to ensure optimal
corrosion resistance and mechanical properties.
Duplex stainless steel fasteners are unique as they combine
super high strength with excellent ductility. Even at very high
strength levels, such as classes 10.9 or 12.9, duplex fasteners offer
equally good or better elongation than the A4‐80 stainless steel
grade. The duplex microstructure together with low inclusion
content also offer excellent strength and good corrosion resistance.
Another essential property of duplex stainless steel is that it
has excellent corrosion resistance – far better corrosion resis‐
tance than A4 (316L). Duplex fasteners are not subject to
hydrogen embrittlement, poor ductility, as well as many of the
associated quality and performance issues inherent with the
use of coated alloy steel fasteners.
ACHIEVING LIFECYCLE COST – AND HUMAN – SAVINGS
The superior properties of duplex stainless steel fasteners
ensure they can be a more cost‐effective solution than alloy
steel fasteners in high‐strength applications in corrosive envi‐
ronments. Duplex fasteners can significantly lower total lifecy‐
cle costs by reducing or eliminating future maintenance,
18 torque-expo.com
// Duplex stainless steel
fasteners are unique as they
combine super high strength
with excellent ductility. //
downtime and replacement costs, which can often far outweigh
the initial higher cost of the fastener.
Beyond lifecycle cost savings, the failure of an alloy steel 12.9
fastener due to corrosion, hydrogen embrittlement or fatigue
can be catastrophic for the application and the associated
assets. Such a catastrophic failure can involve massive financial
costs and risks to human life – think bridges, vehicles, vessels,
skyscrapers, refineries, oil platforms, etc – which can all be
mitigated against by using duplex stainless steel fasteners.
APPLICATIONS
Duplex stainless steel fasteners are used for critical applica‐
tions that demand a combination of excellent corrosion resis‐
tance and high strength. Duplex grades are primarily used in
the oil/gas, chemical, and pulp and paper industries, and
subsea or other applications in highly corrosive environments.
Premium stainless steel fastener specialist BUMAX of
Sweden is a company steeped in history that has a long tradi‐
tion of being at the forefront of fastener innovation and devel‐
opment. A few years back, it developed the world’s strongest
bolt – the BUMAX Ultra – with three times the strength of a
standard stainless steel fastener. Its next generation of very
high strength duplex stainless steel fastener is called BUMAX
DX (Duplex) 129. With excellent corrosion resistance, BUMAX
DX 129 is poised to be the ultimate choice for strength, ductility
and corrosion resistance.

Torque Magazine quizzes BUMAX
Technical Director Anders Söderman
on trends, R&D and the future of fasteners…
HOW HAVE FASTENERS IN GENERAL DEVELOPED
IN RECENT DECADES?
I think a major trend in the last 30 years is that we have seen an
increase in cheap fasteners on the market that might lack the
required properties for a particular application – such as strength
and corrosion resistance. It may seem to make good business
sense when purchasing cheap products, but such fasteners might
require regular maintenance or replacement, and even result in
catastrophic fastener failure if not properly maintained. This is
why it is essential to source high‐quality fasteners from suppliers
that can help with selecting the best fasteners for a particular
application from a lifecycle cost perspective.
At the same time, materials technology has continued to
develop – to make high quality fasteners with exceptional prop‐
erties for extremely demanding applications. Duplex stainless
steel fasteners are the latest addition to the list of high‐
performing stainless steel fasteners on the market, providing
excellent strength and corrosion resistance.
IS THERE A SHIFT IN CUSTOMER FASTENER DEMAND?
Yes, we have seen the growing trend of stainless fasteners
being used to substitute alloy steel and standard stainless
fasteners. Customers are increasingly taking a lifecycle
perspective on their fasteners – to reduce overall lifecycle costs
and risk. There is also greater appreciation of cold formed
high‐quality fasteners with excellent properties.
BUMAX DX 129 is the
next generation of very
high strength duplex
stainless steel fastener
// Customers are increasingly
taking a lifecycle perspective on
their fasteners – to reduce overall
lifecycle costs and risk. //
HOW DO YOU DEVELOP NEW FASTENERS?
We have a structured process when developing new products. It
always starts with an idea, either from a customer to solve their
particular need or by us anticipating a particular need for better
performing fasteners in the market. We create the business case,
conduct a feasibility study and eventually initial product trials.
New products are tested by us, third parties and often by our
customers. If the samples from the trial are approved, we can
move to the last step, which is full‐scale production and
commercialisation. The entire product development process
typically takes between one to two years. Our new range of
BUMAX Duplex stainless steel fasteners for example took 18
months to develop and have been tested on extremely demand‐
ing customer applications.
WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE MOST EXCITING
DEVELOPMENT IN THE FASTENER INDUSTRY?
Besides high‐performing duplex stainless steel fasteners that
have the potential to solve many customer application issues
in corrosive environments, Smart Bolts are really interesting.
Basically, a Smart Bolt is a fastener with a built‐in tension
sensor, which measures stresses and preload in the bolt over
time. They reduce the risk of failure and costly inspections –
particularly for critical or difficult to access fasteners.
FOR YOU PERSONALLY, WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING
TO IMPROVE IN THE WORLD OF FASTENERS?
At BUMAX, we have always been at the forefront of fastener
innovation. Several of our products are unique when it comes
to strength and cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
We are also actively developing Smart Bolts.
www.bumax-fasteners.com
torque-expo.com 19
TORQUE FOCUS
COATING & PLATING

ADDED VALUE IN COATING >

THE MULTIVARIABLE COATING SYSTEM
Sven-Michael Tolksdorf, Reinhardt Technical Sales Manager Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Dipl.-Ing. (FH),
explains how the dip-spin coating system technology specialist can significantly improve
material flow with intelligent part guidance…

W
ith the Multivariable Coating System, different
batches and coating states can be run simultaneously
in one system. Traceability is always guaranteed.
A new air‐conditioning system in the coating chamber
guarantees an even more continuous color quality, and the
re‐dosing has also been optimised. These measures minimise
the consumption of the coating media.
Since there is only one drum or basket in the medium at a
time, considerably less space and material is required during
the actual coating process compared to multi‐drum systems.
The intelligent control of the speed, direction of rotation and
angle of inclination produces excellent results even with
scooping parts.
Evaporation, drying and cooling is carried out in the furnaces
developed and produced by Reinhardt GmbH. The renowned
manufacturer of industrial furnaces guarantees a perfect air
flow with high temperature uniformity at all times. The patented
and proven pallet transport system over several levels saves
expensive space in the user's hall, and thus saves money.
In summary, the systems offer the following advantages:
I Very good coating quality
I Coating plant and furnace technology from one manufacturer
I All assemblies from one source
I perfect coordination of the individual components
I Reduced material and energy consumption
I High flexibility
I Low space requirement
www.reinhardt.gmbh

Reinhardt’s dip spin system (left) and dip spin unit (middle) with part of the electrical equipment (right)

20 torque-expo.com
 QUALITY
SINCE
classic • system • automotive 19 51

NEW O
ONN STO
S TO C K:
K:
Tapping screws:
ISO 14585 / ISO 14586 type C
Drilling screws:
ISO 15481 / ISO 15482 / DIN 7504 type K
Thread rolling screws:
ISO 14583 / ISO 14579 / ISO 14580 / ISO 14581

A L S O N EEW
W ON S
STO
T OC
C K:
K:
Hexagon socket set screws:
DIN 913/ISO 4026 / DIN 914/ISO 4027
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
C-PARTS, LOGISTICS & KANBAN
HOW CORONA IS CHANGING
C-PARTS MANAGEMENT
The pandemic is going to bring lasting change to the C-parts
business, argues industry veteran Ferdinand Gross…
W
hether the Spanish flu, world wars, oil or financial
crises – anyone who has been in the market as the
oldest “screw dealer” in Germany for over 150
years knows well that crises are part of business. For Ferdi‐
nand Gross, the main challenge is to identify the processes
triggered by the crisis and to find the right answers. Because
one thing is certain: The corona crisis will change C‐parts
management permanently.
MORE HOME OFFICE - MORE DIGITISATION!
In the course of the home office boom, there is a growing
demand for web‐based tools that not only provide real‐time
insight into the company's own Kanban system, but also offer
22 torque-expo.com
active control options. With the “Falcon” tool, Ferdinand Gross
was reportedly the first company to bring such an innovation
onto the market. It enables buyers to control the use of C‐parts
from the home office in an effective manner and to react
quickly to peaks in demand using statistics and evaluations.
INCREASING PRICE COMPETITION FOR DRAWING PARTS
The increased price competition is a further development that
will intensify significantly. While the scope for cost savings has
largely been exhausted with standard C‐parts, the market for
custom‐made parts, which has grown strongly in recent years,
offers potential for savings. Cost reductions can primarily be
achieved here by sourcing outside of Europe. C‐parts dealers
The home working boom has seen
increased demand for web tools to
provide Kanban system access
 FFA
ASTENERS & FIXING TECHNOLOG
GYY

With
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ustomers
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who have aligned their supplier management to this trend at

an early stage and who can present successful reference
projects are in a good position here. Provided that they can
guarantee the customer long‐term security of supply.

SECURITY OF SUPPLY AS A CENTRAL SERVICE

In the wake of the corona crisis, there is much talk of the dark
side of globalisation. The highly internationalised supply
chains and the resulting potential dependencies and bottle‐
necks in crisis are discussed in particular. But what does that
mean for C‐parts management? In principle, C‐parts special‐
ists can bring their strengths into play right now. The prob‐
lem is often not so much the globalised supply chains but
just‐in‐time production. As a C‐parts dealer, however, you can
secure the JIT production of your customers with the appro‐
priate stocks and easily cushion short‐term delivery difficul‐
ties of the C‐part manufacturers. And even in the event of
long‐term crises and production stoppages, the supply of We secure
We secure your
your ssupply
uppllyy
C‐parts can be guaranteed: Ferdinand Gross anticipates
potential delivery bottlenecks as part of the “Safe Supply off C-parts
o C-pa
parts
Chain” management and approaches customers actively with
alternative suggestions. In this way, additional sources are
organised and, if necessary, accredited at an early stage, 130,
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elivvery
erryy
of supply, with competent support from an international
C‐parts specialist, does not endanger security of supply, but TTechnical
echnical competence
competence
rather increases it (see diagram above).
In summary, the crisis also turns out to be an opportunity
to accept the developments of recent years even more
Diverse
Diverse e
e-business
-business ssolutions
olutions
resolutely and to advance them with important innovations
and services. Above all, it harbours the opportunity for more Flexible
Flexible K
Kanban
anban ssupply
upply
intensive and productive cooperation with the customer,
which can lead to more appreciation for the complex service Individual
Individual p
packing
pa
ackiing ssolutions
olutions
of C‐parts management. And in the end, appreciative and
personal customer relationships are the best means to
emerge stronger from a crisis.

www.schrauben-gross.com

F. REYHER
F. REYHE
EEYHERRNNchfg.
Nch
c fg. GmbH
GmbH & CCo.
o. KKG
G
Ha e eg 1 · 22769
Haferweg
Haferw 22769 Hamburg
Hambur
bu g · Germany
German
a y
Phone
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o e+ +49
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400885363-0
85363-0
3-
ccontact@reyher.de
ontact@reyher.d
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@rey
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eyhe de · wwww.reyher.de
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eyher.dde
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torque-expo.com 23
TORQUE FOCUS
C-PARTS, LOGISTICS & KANBAN

PGB-EUROPE >
RESPONDING TO DEMAND
Torque Magazine discusses expansion, supply chains and digitalisation with pgb-Europe…

P
gb‐Europe is a good example of how an efficient supply
chain develops into a sales argument. The specialist in
fasteners and fixings is armed with a robotised pallet
warehouse and a new ERP and WMS system for the future.
Vincent Pennoit, Logistics Manager, says: “We gained in effi‐
ciency, respond to the demand for traceability and optimised our // The customers notice that
delivery times. These are assets that our customers appreciate.”
Since 1956, pgb‐Europe has developed from a local player
we do everything we can to
into a reputed international business. The head office in Melle, serve them optimally and
near Ghent, functions as a logistics center for the storage and
delivery of fasteners and tools. Its own production units are they appreciate that. //
located in Poland (anchors) and Vietnam (wood screws). The
sales market from Melle is mainly located in Belgium and
neighbouring countries. With Frederik and Vincent Pennoit
and Johannes Heye, the third generation is active within the
company. pgb‐Europe settled in Melle in 1997.
In preparation for the future, pgb‐Europe has already gone
through several expansion phases. Among other things, a new
WMS and ERP system lay the foundation for a streamlined future.
In addition, work has been carried out on the construction of a
new 5,000 m2 high‐bay warehouse, bringing the total to 28,000
pallet locations. pgb‐Europe continues to critically analyse
its own logical workflows and there is a strong focus on
digitisation with new system‐to‐system connections such as
EDI, scanning and e‐invoicing.
pgb‐Europe sees the supply chain as an important asset for
its customers. “We do not aspire to be the cheapest, but offer
our customers optimum quality, a beautiful appearance on the
shop shelf, convenient ordering modes and fast delivery – at a
correct price. Our base contributes to the image of the company.
The customers notice that we do everything we can to serve
them optimally and they appreciate that,” adds Pennoit.
pgb‐Europe is not resting on its laurels even after its exten‐
sive transformation trajectory. The company is now working
on the digitisation and automation of its Polish site, pgb‐Polska.
www.pgb-europe.com

pgb-Europe’s
warehouse
transformation
is to be echoed
in its Polish site,
pgb-Polska
PGB Logistics Manager >
Vincent Pennoit

24 torque-expo.com
TORQUE FOCUS

BERARDI ENHANCES
KANBAN SERVICE WITH
RANGE EXPANSION

YOUR PARTNER FOR

STAINLESS STEEL
B
erardi Fasteners is an Italian C‐parts management
specialist. Headquartered in Castel Guelfo (Bologna), the
company has 12 branches across Italy, and three
national subsidiaries (Vibolt, Vitman, VIBF), a sales office in
Croatia and an international subsidiary in Morocco (Berardi
FASTENERS
Maroc). With over 100 years of experience in fasteners, Optimize your process chain with only one
Berardi is specialised in C‐parts management, creating simple supplier and save valuable time and process
and personalised services for its clients.
Understanding that the market of industrial supplies goes
costs. Take advantage of our procurement ex-
toward the optimisation of logistics and the reduction of the pertise and know-how gathered in more than
number of suppliers, Berardi has expanded its product range 55 years of experience.
with a variety of components beyond fasteners, to complete
its Kanban service offer.
Among the new products, there are components for www.wasi.de/en
hydraulic, fluidic, and pneumatic systems, such as tubes,
fittings, and sealings. In partnership with specialised suppliers,
Berardi offers a wide range of high quality products, as well as
technical sales support. Berardi’s own quality assurance office YOUR ADVANTAGES
completes the picture, guaranteeing the highest quality stan‐
dard for every product.
The ‘Extra Components’ project (non‐fastener items) is
21,000 PRODUCTS IN STOCK
being developed by several product managers, supporting the
sales network with technical know‐how, and providing a big HIGH AVAILABILITY & FLEXIBLE LOGISTICS
value‐add for Berardi’s clients.
WORLD-WIDE SUPPLIER NETWORK
www.berardi-screws-bolts.com

ADVISORY SERVICE IN YOUR LANGUAGE

ORDER 24/7 & FAST DELIVERY TIME

EXCELLENT QUALITY MANAGEMENT

IHRE VERBINDUNG ZUM ERFOLG

YOUR ACCESS TO SUCCESS

torque-expo.com 25
TORQUE FOCUS
C-PARTS, LOGISTICS & KANBAN
AVAILABILITY FOR SCREWS 2.0 >
HOW SCREWERK MADE AVAILABILITY ITS BUSINESS
MODEL THROUGH INDUSTRIAL DIGITISATION
Thanks to Screwerk’s clever “predictive production” approach customers
don’t have to worry about sourcing screws for plastics anymore.
I
n the world of C‐parts, products are usually manufactured
in very high quantities but limited to a small variety of
in‐demand items. However the same can't be said if you
need smaller quantities or atypical sizes of an item. Despite
this existing demand for more variation and low quantities,
manufacturers and distributors are often not in a position to
adjust their processes accordingly. A great example of this
bottleneck is found with screws.
Founded in 2013, Screwerk developed its innovative
“predictive production” to solve this problem and with an
initial assortment of screws for plastics the company can
pretty much provide a suitable dimension for every need.
Guided by its founder’s IT background, Screwerk applies a
digital approach to provide technical solutions in an industrial
environment. The company created a comprehensive digital
system that integrates an extensive inventory with a standard‐
ised “assortment production” for screws. While most produc‐
ers are just starting to gather data to optimise machine
maintenance, Screwerk is already combining production and
distribution data in its very own innovative business model.
The “predictive production” is an example of what can really be
achieved by consistent digitisation", says Alexander Hoffmann,
one of the company’s founders.
Screwerk’s self‐developed software named “Graph” is the
Screwerk’s founders
Heiko Schlabach and
Alexander Hoffman
26 torque-expo.com
heart of the system. It allows the order fulfillment department
to organise an inventory of over 300 million individual items
in 10,000 different variations. The “Graph” also controls the
work preparation of production through algorithms using data
such as order history, inventory levels, and production capabil‐
ities of the individual machines. Data gathered every day is
statistically evaluated for future demand and production slots
are organised in an optimal order. As a result, the decision to
produce a certain item is made even before the customer’s
order comes in. Using computerised processes Screwerk
secures the uninterrupted availability of the existing assort‐
ment while at the same time expanding it with production‐opti‐
mised small batch additions.
Now with in‐house production, the company, which origi‐
nally started as an E‐commerce business, has evolved into a
pioneer in the industrial digitisation of cold forming processes.
At Screwerk’s Lüdenscheid facility in Germany, the company
has built a production hall where existing machines are digi‐
tised through open source‐based retrofits that secure contin‐
uous open standards. These standards allow information to
flow freely without interfaces throughout the organisation and
enable processes to be modelled with flexibility. The existing
machinery can be fitted with sensors and actuators connected
to the mainframe and can be controlled digitally. “A digital
In its R&D production, Screwerk pioneered the
industrial digitisation of cold forming processes
 transformation in which existing machinery has to be replaced
with new ones is not affordable for any company,” explains
Hoffmann, “therefore a highly adaptable retrofit approach is
necessary to connect the vast variety of production resources
in a cost‐efficient way.” Today, Screwerk’s strategic decision to
strictly stick with open‐source software and hardware solutions
has resulted in one of its decisive competitive advantages.
The approach provides a showcase of what can be achieved
with technologies that are available to everybody. The necessary
information, software solutions and hardware are available in
abundance on the internet. Storage space and processing power
are not a constraint anymore. And all of this at prices that only a
few years ago were unimaginable. It’s in this environment that
the company can re‐think solutions for industrial production in
a digital way and transform a traditional industry.
More than 2,500 new customers per year find what they are Any order quantity is possible by integrating standard-
looking for through Screwerk’s availability of screws for plastic ised production and inventory into one digital system
and the firm is one of Germany’s fastest growing companies.
Since the business model is not only based on the screw as a below their minimum lot sizes if requested by their customers.
product, but rather on its availability in an extreme niche, it With its successful model already in place, Screwerk is currently
offers a valuable proposition to all market participants. End expanding its offer by including metric machine screws and
customers benefit from the extended availability in small every day is building up the assortment. And all in line with the
quantities while distributors and C‐part managers benefit company’s vision to provide the ultimate availability for screws.
from reduced search costs and drop shipments to their
customers; and manufacturers can now provide quantities screwerk.de

THE SEARCH IS OVER!

The assortment specialist for Screws for Plastics

Over 10.000 items available online

No minimum quantities

Transparent prices & stock levels

Very short restocking cycles

Global shipping

World: screwerk.de
USA: screwerk.com
 TORQUE FOCUS
C-PARTS, LOGISTICS & KANBAN

STAFA LOGISTICS SERVICES

S
tafa is continuously looking for ways to improve and expand its
products and services, most recently with the addition of a Kanban
service, “Stafa Logistics Services”.
This service makes Stafa an even more reliable and complete fastener
supply partner, the firm says. Both existing customers and new customers
have been reacting very enthusiastically to the addition of this service, Stafa
tells Torque Magazine. By using RFID identification, stock levels are kept
accurately and articles are automatically ordered when the RFID labels are
scanned. On the touch screen that is attached to the Kanban cabinets,
real‐time information is immediately shown to warehouse operatives. On
this screen you can see which items have been ordered and which ones are
on their way. Booking new stock is also very easy. By taking one bin out of
‘received shipment’ and scanning it with RFID in front of the scanner, the
system scans the entire delivery and the stock is instantly updated.
At all times customers can print out their own overview from Stafa’s specially
developed portal with usage data per line or article. In this way, up‐to‐date
information is always available in both the warehouse as well as the office. Stafa
Logistics Services (SLS) assists its customers, which ultimately results in a
streamlined supply of articles without having to keep large numbers in stock.

www.stafa.nl

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 25
YEARS
IN FASTENERS

25 YEARS OF GOOD
AND LONG-LASTING
CONNECTIONS
Twenty-five years ago, 24 October 1995, saw the birth of a fastener legend, Fastener Fair.
The industry-leading event debuted with a three-day show taking place in Donington, in the
Midlands of the UK. Twenty-eight pioneering exhibitors showcased their products and
services for the inaugural Fastener Fair, which drew in over 2,000 visitors.
In the year of the show’s 25th anniversary, Torque Magazine took the opportunity to look
back at that first ground-breaking show and speak to the people who were there, see how
much the industry has changed and look at its future. And we’ve started with the brains
behind that first Fastener Fair (and Torque Magazine publisher), Jerry Ramsdale…

Many exhibitors remain familiar

names in the fastener trade,
while others have been
absorbed by larger groups

30 torque-expo.com
 // People do business
face-to-face, they look
each other in the eye
and shake hands. //

I
was looking to promote a new business I had set up called
Socket Screw Supplies. I had the idea of stocking zinc‐
plated, hydrogen de‐embrittled socket screws in bulk and
supplying the trade. I offered next day delivery in the UK,
which was in its infancy at the time. I could offer stock rapidly
which in normal circumstances could easily take up to seven
days to turn around. Today I’m told a high percentage of socket
screws are supplied this way.
So, there was an exhibition recently started for the fastener
industry that targeted the user, and was for companies in
manufacturing, which was not suitable for my business or the
ones I attracted as we looked to supply the trade.
Steep learning curve
The first exhibition was the hardest. There was a steep learning
curve; venue, suppliers, visitor promotion and attracting
exhibitors to the concept were all new to me. Some people I
knew already and some have become great friends over the
years. There was less than six months from the idea to the show
opening, which was an extremely short time, looking back.
When we opened the doors for the first day, we didn’t know
what to expect and we were amazed with the number of visi‐
tors. For those first 28 pioneering exhibitors, it was probably
the best exhibition they ever attended. As I cast my mind back,
there was so much excitement when the doors opened. It was
almost a party atmosphere, with some people meeting old
friends, such as people that they had been apprentices with
many years before but lost contact with over the years. Good
and long‐lasting business connections were made.
The show trebled in size the next year and in 1998 I sold
Socket Screw Supplies to Brighton Best to concentrate on the
exhibition and fastener magazine I had started to publish. The
business grew internationally thanks to a great team with the
launch of a show in Stuttgart in 2005, which trebled in size by
2009. I sold the business to Mack Brooks Exhibitions in 2010
which has done a fantastic job with growth and has taken the
exhibitions to many other countries.
The industry has changed over the last 25 years, but it’s a
gradual thing. The larger wholesalers now have highly sophis‐
ticated computer systems for sales, stock control and ware‐
house systems. For their customer, especially in the UK, if they
wish they are able to place their orders online, into the evening
and often getting the order delivered before they open for
business the next day. It’s a fantastic service which has resulted
in distributors not needing to hold as much stock, which has
enabled many of them to expand their range of product mix.
Watch this space...
And so to the future, what does the next 25 years hold? With
the outbreak of Covid‐19 which has rocked the planet it’s diffi‐
cult enough to predict a year ahead. As the vaccine is rolled
out in 2021, I expect business travel will reduce as more tech‐
nology like Zoom and Microsoft Teams are rolled out. The
demand for fasteners will continue to grow, with more global‐
isation and buy outs. I expect a lot of people that can, will
continue to work from home at least partially as the social
experiment seems to have worked and there will be more digi‐
talisation. But people are naturally sociable which brings me
back to exhibitions, which will return. One thing is for sure,
people do business face‐to‐face, they look each other in the eye
and shake hands.
So why did I come back with Torque-Expo five years later? I
missed it and all the people in the industry. I’d been in the
fastener industry over 35 years and there was no longer an
exhibition for the UK market. And I was still in publishing and
events with Fleet World for the car market and Cycling Industry
News for the cycling industry. The idea of Torque was to focus
on a wider product range that was sold through distribution
and to offer new ideas, which we do through Torque Magazine
and to the future with cutting edge technology and news
through our digital presence. For exhibitions, there are going
to be some changes, watch this space!
jerry@torque-expo.com

THE FIRST EXHIBITORS Heads & Threads

Abbey Stainless Components Ltd JBS Computer Services
Adam Equipment Co Ltd Magdrill Sales & Site Services
Agrati Nettlefold
Apex Stainless Fasteners Ltd Oetiker UK Ltd
Brighton-Best Socket Screw Ltd PRD Fasteners
Crown Washer Co Ltd Ramset Fastening Systems
Deltaleigh Ltd RCF Bolt & Nut
Eurofast SEP Group
Eurofix Socket Screw Supplies Ltd
GSS Fasteners Ltd STF
Hafren Fasteners System Cases (UK) Ltd Turn the page to hear more
Hampton Plating Co (Birmingham) Ltd WD-40 from some of those original
Harrison & Clough Ltd Weighpack International 28 exhibitors...

torque-expo.com 31
 25
YEARS
APEX STAINLESS FASTENERS
IN FASTENERS

25 YEARS OF RADICAL CHANGES

FOR THE STAINLESS FASTENER SUPPLY CHAIN
Paul Lower, Founder & Director of Apex Stainless Fasteners, established the
business shortly before the first Fastener Fair took place in 1995. Here, he
provides his recollection of that first show, how Apex has changed in the quarter
century since and on the shifts that have taken place in the fastener industry…

A
pex Stainless Fasteners formed only a few years before
the inaugural Fastener Fair and looked to establish a
specialist stainless fasteners business to service the
fastener trade in both the UK and Ireland, with an initial target
of incrementally growing turnover by one million GBP every
year. At that time, nearly all contact with customers was over the
telephone and the product was largely of European manufacture.
While Far Eastern manufacturers had also come on stream these
were based in countries other than India and China, which now
largely dominate supplies to the European market.
The first Fastener Fair was like a breath of fresh air and the
first trade show Apex ever attended. It was geared to the UK
market almost exclusively and as a new growing business Apex
were very keen to participate. Obviously, no one knew quite
what to expect so it was with a degree of uncertainty that the
decision to exhibit was taken. All existing customers were
given advance details, but not quite knowing the extent this
would provide an invitation to meet competitors. In hindsight
this was never really an issue for that first show proved a great
idea and a success story for Apex, as UK‐based businesses
attended and as such it did not provide an early entry route
for what subsequently became major European competition.
Apex staff took the opportunity to come face‐to‐face with
customers, plus the many other fastener distributors attending
that had up to then either not known of or traded with the
company. Lots of new business contacts were forged and for
Apex it was not only the first but almost certainly the most
successful of all the fastener trade shows ever attended! Provi‐
sional expectations were greatly exceeded with significant
new business achieved as a direct result.
Right from the start (set up) the banter, humour and fun
were almost contagious, and there was little spirit of being in
a “competition” nor any lack of openness amongst exhibitors.
All were working not only to promote themselves but together
to facilitate the success of the venture as it was in their mutual
interest. This may simply have been because it was the first
such event and a great idea, but everything went from
strength‐to‐strength throughout the show and nearly every‐
one seemed delighted with the outcome. It set a great prece‐
dent and foundation for all the shows that followed.
FROM A BIT PART PLAYER TO A SIGNIFICANT WHOLESALER
Since these early days, the pattern of growth in the Apex busi‐
ness has remained remarkably consistent with a similar incre‐
mental rate year‐on‐year in line with the original target. The
company has seen its transition from being a part player to
probably the major force in the UK market for stainless steel
fasteners, developing from a small sized distributor to a signif‐
icant stainless fastener wholesaler. The business has steadily
grown by adding good staff, while consistently following the
procedures and business ethics set in stone in those early
years, focusing always on customer service above everything
while ensuring that key sales staff remain at the forefront of
all direct contact with customers. Initially based in a small
4,000‐plus feet² warehouse, the business now occupies 100,000‐
plus feet² cumulatively, with an additional 15,000‐plus feet² UK
manufacturing site.
The stainless fastener supply chain has seen a radical change
over the last twenty‐five years. The manufacturing base has
moved from Europe to the Far East, despite efforts by the

Apex Stainless Fasteners has developed from a small sized distributor

in its early days to a significant stainless steel wholesaler

32 torque-expo.com

European manufacturers to hold back the transition by means
of anti‐dumping legislation. It is now truly a worldwide supply
chain with both China and India vying for market leadership.
The demise of the European manufacture base has also elimi‐
nated any “manufacturers inventory” while consequently
increasing both lead times and size of orders. It has in essence
transferred effective internal control of the European Market
to a group of major European stainless wholesalers. However,
one thing that has remained constant within the UK is the 24
hour delivery expectation that customers effectively rely on to
service their business needs and this has been core to both
service and mutual success of Apex and customers alike.
COVID, BREXIT AND BEYOND
Throughout this period there have been significant events and
developments both within the trade and at Apex. There have
been exceptional years when sitting on shed loads of stock
proved a financial godsend, such as when the nickel price
increased dramatically, but other years when external factors
had the opposite impact. Inventories and pricing are poten‐
tially the Achilles heel of all wholesalers. Anti‐dumping
measures (duty) clearly created a challenging business climate
as well. However most external factors have been compara‐
tively straightforward to cope with, save the 2008 recession
when business levels literally almost changed overnight, and
thereafter the struggle to realign costs quickly ensued. Since
then and until 2020, with the arrival of the Covid pandemic,
business has developed well year‐on‐year. This year saw busi‐
ness fall dramatically again for a number of months, but the
initial recovery phase has so far proved a less daunting busi‐
ness prospect than in 2008/2009, although it is clearly too
early to assess the longer‐term business impact.
Following a decent first quarter this year, three poor trading
months followed due to the pandemic lockdown. The use of
Furlough to save jobs that may otherwise have gone has
worked, although a limited reduction of staff (and costs) has
been necessary to maintain viability and efficiency. Inventory
was consequently reduced although will soon recover as new
stock orders are already placed with the intention of rebuild‐
ing stock levels in advance of Brexit. Once the outcome of
government negotiations is known, Apex has plans to speak to
customers and particularly Irish and other European based
customers with a view to minimising both disruption and any
net cost impact on them. By allocating purchase orders to a
greater number of manufacturing outlets any negative impact
of Brexit on the service and supply to customers should be
minimised in 2021.
Moving on beyond Covid and Brexit, Apex will continue to
look after its customers with the same service focus as in the
past. Potential future raw material pricing factors appear to be
stabilising, with gradually increasing nickel prices due to
world demand (for electric vehicle batteries). The stainless
fastener market share has continuously grown year‐on‐year,
based on attention to life cycle costs, coupled with the recy‐
cling capability of stainless steel. This trend is almost certain
to continue in the future.
Following a long‐time association with Apex and the
fastener trade my own involvement is gradually winding
down, with a new Managing Director just appointed (David
Vahter). The leadership transition will be complete by the end
of 2020 with the business and all its staff well placed to look
forward to continuing prosperity in the years ahead.
www.apexstainless.com

PAUL LOWER AWARDED BUFAB’S LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Unknown to Paul Lower while writing this article, Bufab Group is giving
a special award to him – one of only three granted in four decades...

T he Bufab Group has decided to honour Mr Paul Lower, Founder and Managing Director of the highly successful Apex Stain‐
less, with the Bufab Lifetime Achievement Award. The award recognises his outstanding achievements in the industry, in
Apex Stainless and in the Bufab Group. The Bufab Lifetime Achievement Award recognises outstanding business achievement
over a long time, often decades. It has been awarded to only three people in over 40 years.
Founded in 1991 by Paul Lower himself, Apex Stainless Fasteners has built a world‐wide reputation for service, competitive
pricing as well as an extensive and comprehensive stock range, and is now one of Europe’s leading specialist suppliers of stain‐
less steel fasteners. Since 2015, Apex Stainless is a member of the Bufab Group.
“Paul Lower embodies the entrepreneurial values that are core to the Bufab Group,” says Jörgen Rosengren, Bufab’s President
& CEO. “Combining this entrepreneurship with excellent people leadership and a unique business acumen, he has built up one of
Europe’s strongest players in the very competitive stainless fasteners industry. Apex Stainless is also a highly appreciated and
important employer in several locations throughout the UK. Against that background, it’s my honour and privilege to award Paul
the Bufab Lifetime Achievement Award.”

torque-expo.com 33
 25
YEARS
HAFREN FASTENERS
IN FASTENERS

HAFREN FASTENERS > A LOOK BACK

AT 25 YEARS IN SECURITY FASTENERS
Hafren Security Fasteners exhibited at the first Fastener Fair in 1995 at Castle Donington.
Business Development Director Ben Cooper attended that first show. He tells Torque
Magazine: “25 years ago Hafren Fasteners was a pioneering new business created with the
mission of stamping out theft through the supply of specialist security fasteners.
“At the same time the first Fastener fair at Castle Donington created the ideal platform
for us to promote our business and raise awareness about security fasteners as well as
meet distributor customers, many of whom we still do business with to this day.”
Here, the firm looks back on the development of the security fastener market
since the mid-‘90s.

the widest range of security fasteners globally available from

stock, including several patented products that can only be
obtained through Hafren approved distributors.
From its humble origins of a garden shed, Hafren has gone
from strength‐to‐strength outgrowing its premises six times. In
Q1 2020, Hafren opened a purpose built warehouse increasing
storage space by more than four times.
With an industry leading service, dealing with Hafren is easy
for any proactive distributor wanting to maximise margin
opportunities and offer its clients solutions to their fastener
demands. At the outset, Hafren said it wouldn’t deal directly
with end users… 25 years on and that is still the case. With a
growing list of distributors globally, it means you are never far
from effective security solutions.

THE FUTURE OF SECURITY FASTENERS DISTRIBUTION

Hafren Security Fasteners was one of a handful of
exhibitors at the first Fastener Fair
WHY THE NEED FOR SECURITY?
‘Stamping out the impact of theft globally’ was a straightfor‐
ward reason for the creation of Hafren Security Fasteners. The
‘impact of crime’ is significant and difficult to measure. It is
this ‘impact of theft’ that we wished to stamp out through the
application of our innovative fastener products.
HOW SECURITY FASTENERS HAVE EVOLVED?
Staying one step ahead of the ever‐increasing threat of theft,
Hafren Security Fasteners invests heavily in innovation and
R&D helping to develop new products. This has led to one of
2020 has had its challenges for fastener distributors, but
Hafren is cautiously optimistic about the future ‐ theft hasn’t
gone away and the need to safeguard products and property
is of all importance.
Continual investment in R&D for new security fastener prod‐
ucts is happening ‐ watch this space for new ranges in 2021.
Bespoke specials are a large part of what Hafren offers, giving
clients exactly what they require in terms of material, plating,
patching, painted heads and unique styles and variations.
In 2020, Hafren celebrated its 25th year and launched its new
‘orange boxes’ – this product packaging gives the range a new look
and feel that is much bolder and more appealing across all prod‐
uct offerings. Multiple openings, configurable sizing across the
range, tougher, more durable and greener than ever before – this
packaging will soon come with barcoding for the whole range too.

R&D continues to be
a priority in 2020
and likely beyond,
with new ranges
expected in 2021

34 torque-expo.com
 Looking tie-dy > The Hafren team The future’s bright > Hafren at
at Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2017 Fastener Fair Stuttgart 2019

Hafren is a strong reliable brand that has been embraced by

// 2020 has had its challenges,
but Hafren is cautiously
optimistic – theft hasn’t
gone away. //
the market; is renowned for quality; reliability and a world
class customer service – a reputation they have worked hard
to achieve for over 25 years.
Hafren Security Fasteners are available through approved
distributors throughout the United Kingdom and worldwide.
Contact us on +44 (0)1686 621 300 to find out more about becom‐
ing an approved distributor or to find a distributor near you.

www.hafrenfasteners.com

Harrison & Clough are a Yorkshire-based leading

distributor of quality fasteners, fixings, hand tools,
power tool accessories and industrial consumables.
As a fourth-generation family business, we have
been providing first class services and support to
the merchant trade for over 100 years. Trusted by
the world’s foremost tool manufacturers and market
leading fastener and fixings brands, we deliver quality
products to wholesalers on time and to budget.

• Market leading brands

• Large stock levels - depth and breadth of ranges
• Next day delivery
• Competitive prices
• Sales office open 8:15 - 5:15pm, order online 24/7
• Dedicated wholesale to the merchant trade
- absolutely no end user business
• Now with AEO accreditation

Call 0844 571 22 22

Email sales@harclo.com
Visit www.harclo.com

RS00447
torque-expo.com 39
 25
YEARS
TITE-FIX
IN FASTENERS

PIONEERING INNOVATION
Tite-Fix Founder Michael Wilkinson was at the first Fastener Fair, exhibiting with Nettlefolds.
Since then the industry veteran has launched the innovative and award-winning Tite-Range®
of fixings and seen plenty of industry changes along the way…

What were your expectations of that first Fastener Fair? showcase that innovation. It’s nice to get innovation awards
I thought it was a good idea and I expected it would be a and I think we’ve won more from Fastener Fair than any other
success. The industry didn’t have a specific fastener show at company. We do have patents, but you get copycat products,
that time so we were up for it. There was a great atmosphere taking the idea. That’s the nature of things and I suppose it’s
and it sounds dramatic, but we felt like pioneers, in a way. like they say, it’s a compliment.
We felt early on it would be successful. It was in a great loca‐ Tongue‐Tite won an innovation first prize and over time
tion in the country for visitors from the south and the north. we’ve changed the head size and other tweaks and it’s gone on
There was plenty of parking and it was easy to access. I to sell container loads.
thought it was a great venue. On a career level, every prize we’ve won is a milestone to me,
as has starting Tite‐Fix and the development of the Tite range.
What are some of the big changes you’ve seen in the
fastener industry since that first Fastener Fair? In 25 years, is 2020 the year that has seen the most disrup-
There’s been a big change in the route to market to the end user. tion in the fastener industry?
Not from the wholesaler and distributor, but we’ve seen some I’m not sure it has been. It’s unfortunate and a wrecking ball
of the big companies like Screwfix and Toolstation cut out some has gone through the economy. Some sectors have been suffer‐
of the distributors and merchants and offer a package that the ing terribly, but parts of the fastener industry have seen
end user really enjoys. So that has shifted the buying policy a unprecedented demand. On the construction side or anything
little bit for businesses that have jumped on board, like us. That to do with DIY, supply to builders and joiners, we’ve seen
approach has won extra customers this unprecedented demand and we know
year, as during lockdown some of the big some of our competitors have too. But if
nationals closed to begin with. So, we’ve // We are very proud you look at the engineering sector or
seen things shift even further this year automotive it’s a different story. Overall, if
and I think it might endure – they will
of our innovation. The you look at the pressure on supply as well
probably retain some of those customers. ethos of the business is as the constricted demand in those other
Another big change has been CE Mark‐ sectors, overall you would have to say
ing. This hasn’t been policed, but if it had to innovate and listen there has been disruption.
I think there would have been turmoil. to what the end April was bad and we had to make some
We did it right and we have CE Marking difficult decisions. So, we went to
on our products. user wants. // customers and worked really closely with
Even though it hasn’t really affected us them, perhaps the closest we ever have.
because we don’t buy from China, the other big change has And we’ve so far been proved right in those decisions. It has
been anti‐dumping, when it has been imposed and removed strengthened a lot of our relationships and we’ve never been in
over the years. Strangely enough, CE Marking and anti‐dump‐ a stronger position. But I know that some are not in that position,
ing are both things that have been driven by Europe, especially I can only say how it is for us.
CE Marking.
It’s going to be a big issue. If your CE Mark has given by a UK We hear there are stock issues in the market right now.
test house it won’t be recognised in Europe so you can’t use it. Have you found that to be the case?
Everyone is saying that transport is an issue. Stock from source
Tite-Fix has earned a reputation as an innovator, picking up is not a problem, but getting it into the UK is an issue. There
multiple awards over the years... are container delays and one guy told me a ship came to dock
We are very proud of our innovation. The ethos of the business and ended up leaving with some containers still left on board
is to innovate and listen to what the end user wants. Innova‐ because they ran out of time, including his container. Also, we
tion usually comes around application problems. Someone has hear that drivers are becoming scarce. So, there are issues in
a task and have been able to bodge it, then we look at that and the UK at the moment. We have managed our supply chain
develop something that works for the application and drive it quite well, despite demand going through the roof.
to market. Innovation is what drives Tite‐Fix and has done all
along. It sounds simple, but it’s not that easy. I’ve just finished Looking ahead, what will the fastener industry look like in
developing a screw which has taken two years. the next five or 25 years?
On the back of that, Fastener Fair is a vehicle where we can 25 years is too far to look ahead at, but in the next three or four

36 torque-expo.com
 Tite-Fix has won a number of
innovation awards, including
from Fastener Fair

years I think we’ll see a change in what the customer wants. I
think people are fed up of low quality products, specifically
low quality finished goods, although there will always be cheap
and cheerful products. I think this will drive quality up for all
parts and components and I can see that continuing.
There’s also the possibility that we will see changes to the
supply chain. It depends on the relationship between East and
West after we’ve seen trade barriers and a reaction against
China from the likes of Trump. Maybe after Brexit the UK will
get closer to other countries around the world. Even if we don’t
get a trade deal, I’d like to think that as a business we’ll
continue to collaborate with quality companies.
This year we’ve seen a lot of working remotely from
homes, so how important is that face-to-face experience
with customers. As important as it was in 1995?
We do a lot of shows normally. This year we’ve probably
been talking to customers more than normal, so we’ve got
closer in some respects. But I’ve always said that at shows
and Fastener Fair especially, in three days we can have
thousands of chats with people. And at shows you get
those unexpected visitors on your stand you wouldn’t
normally get.
www.tite-fix.co.uk

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Find out more about our leading brands... sales@tite-fix.co.uk www.tite-fitorque-expo.com

x.co.uk 39
 25
YEARS
OWLETT-JATON
IN FASTENERS

ROUNDTABLE >
A QUARTER CENTURY OF CHANGE
& THE FUTURE OF FASTENERS
Exhibitors at Fastener Fair’s first show included STF and SEP Group, both now absorbed by
Owlett-Jaton. Torque Magazine brought together three of Owlett-Jaton’s highly experienced
senior executives to chat about the days of those first Fastener Fairs, how the fastener industry
has developed over the following 25 years and what the future has in store for the sector…

David Jackson > Nick Horton > Tony Williams >

Key Accounts Purchasing Director Sales Director
Director

WHERE WERE YOU 25 YEARS AGO? For many of us, the mists of time have made it difficult to pinpoint exactly what we were
doing a quarter of a century ago, and it’s no different for the good people of the fastener industry. Many are sure they attended
some of the early Fastener Fairs, but it is less easy to be precise about which of the shows they visited. Thanks to the exhibitor
list, we can be sure which companies were there. We know that while Owlett-Jaton didn’t exhibit (or, strictly speaking, exist in
its current form back in 1995), key contributory parts of the company did exhibit. Owlett-Jatons’s Key Account Director David
Jackson (previously STF Sales Director) is one such attendee of one of the first Fastener Fairs. Torque Magazine hosted a
roundtable discussion with David, Owlett-Jaton Sales Director Tony Williams and Owlett-Jaton Purchasing Director Nick Horton
(the latter with over 40 years’ experience of general purchasing in the industry) to talk about how the fastener sector has
changed since the mid-‘90s and what lies ahead…

Timeline > How Owlett-Jaton has

developed over the decades

38 torque-expo.com
David Jackson > I went to Fastener Fair just after I joined the
fastener industry and remember it was held in what seemed
like an old aircraft hanger and there were a lot of people
attending. STF was established in 1985 and privately owned
by Alan Stennett, who subsequently started Icon Fasteners in
1995, followed by Galaxy in 2001. Those three companies
became part of Hexstone and more latterly Owlett‐Jaton, so
somewhere in there are the remnants of those companies.
What kind of changes have you seen in the industry over
the 25 years since that first Fastener Fair?
Tony Williams > We have gone from a regionalised business
with warehouses strategically placed across the country, to a
business with one warehouse in the Midlands serving the
whole of the UK. Our Regional Sales offices and teams remain
an integral part of the business, continuing to serve customers
in their own regions. The destocking of branches has been one
of the biggest changes for me in that period.
Nick Horton > The Owlett side of the business also held stock
in Dartford and Nailsea. Another big change was the company
had its own fleet of vehicles 25 years ago, servicing the country.
Tony Williams > Then you look at sourcing – both compa‐
nies were among the last wholesalers buying from UK manu‐
facturers such as GKN, Atlas Bolt and Regis Bolt.
Nick Horton > I went out to Asia at least once a year in
those days and the big difference is the quality of factories in
China. They were Chinese government‐owned and not
necessarily great. Now most of the factories you go to in China
are overseas‐owned, primarily Taiwan, and the difference in
quality is huge.
David Jackson > I can echo that. At STF and Icon, both
started in the early ‘80s and ‘90s and sourcing was not from
the UK, it was European and Northern Italy in particular. Then
in the following 10 years that changed to Far East sourcing.
Almost immediately it was Taiwan for stainless steel and also
for ICON’s socket products.
Nick Horton > From 1990 onwards we started moving our
product sourcing out to Asia – we had to, to be competitive.
There was still bolting sourced in the UK, but it tended to be
the lower carbon steel. Originally imports that came into the
country were either big wooden cases, or big plastic drums,
including self‐tappers and hexagon nuts. When I ran the
Leighton Buzzard operation, I employed one guy simply
because he was strong enough to lift up these 30‐40 kilo tubs.
// Originally imports were
either in big wooden cases or
big plastic drums. I employed
one guy simply because he
was strong enough to lift
these 40 kilo tubs. //
PACKAGING
Nick Horton > Health and safety and packaging have changed
a lot. In fact, Jaton were one of the first to improve the packag‐
ing of products coming into the UK, moving away from bulk.
We were spending an awful lot of time weighing things out. It
has been a big switch in the last 25 years from bulk product
into small boxed products. Even the bulk products now are 20
kilos maximum.
Tony Williams > That brings us onto how demands on the
wholesalers have changed. The change in packaging demands
during the last couple of decades has been immense. The vast
majority of product we sell used to be packaged in ‘non‐retail’
fit for purpose boxes or cartons. Now it is all about smaller
quantities, more informative labelling and packaging, and of
course, moving to recyclable materials wherever possible.
Unifix trade and retail bags were
launched in 2017 (see timeline, left)
torque-expo.com 39
 25
YEARS
OWLETT-JATON
IN FASTENERS
David Jackson > From our perspective at STF and Icon, it
started with a manufacturer’s box with a pretty basic label on
it. Then we got requests from customers for more and more
detail. Then barcodes came along and these changed the face
of packaging for the customer as well as how products were
handled in our own businesses. There is so much detail on
labelling now, it is astonishing compared with 25 years ago.
Nick Horton > I’ve spent the last six months working through
all the packaging of our plastic pouch bag range to make them
fully recyclable. Some plastics are called recyclable but they
are highly difficult to recycle. What we have approved and have
on order is fully recyclable packaging, for the trade and retail
bags. From February onwards you will start to see 100% recy‐
clable packaging coming though.
David Jackson > A lot of effort has gone into the operations
side to make sure that when you ship products out they arrive
in great condition. Time has been spent getting the primary
packaging right, the tertiary packaging right, the tape, the labels
and on how you actually ship it out overnight to the customers.
When I first arrived at STF the product was simply packaged
into an outer box sometimes as much as 25 kgs. I remember
watching a delivery driver drop a 25 kilo box of bolts off the back
of a carrier’s lorry onto the floor and let the customer collect
them up and take them into his warehouse.
IT TECHNOLOGY
David Jackson > Technology and IT have become absolutely
integrated in everything we do, day‐in, day‐out. Whether that’s
spreadsheets, software we’re using to buy, software to run the
CRM, software for everything. I remember when I first joined
STF we used to have a daily sales book. Someone would fill the
figures in and we’d hand it around the management team. Now
we have reports every morning with masses of information
about the previous day’s sales.
Nick Horton > Jaton actually had automated purchasing
back in 1993, we only used it for UK suppliers, based on a
demand planner. The computer churned out orders once a
month and it would run a program and calculate all the orders
on a preferred supplier basis, because you had a price list
discount negotiated with all the manufacturers.
David Jackson > IT in the warehouse now gives us a mass
of information, with barcodes and handheld terminals. That
control of stock means product is live and in the system within
hours of it coming off a lorry.
40 torque-expo.com
Operational effort > Primary
and tertiary packaging has
become more important
Nick Horton > When I started in the trade, if you were on
the sales desk, you had to write your orders out, then pass it
over to the person who did the stock allocation. You’d have to
write it on the form and tell the warehouse where to pick it
from. Then you would write out the advice note to the
customer, then accounts would write in the sale prices and
calculate VAT and anything else, then post it. At one stage we
had 15 people employed just raising invoices.
// There is no substitute for
a walk around a customer’s
warehouse or shop, spotting
opportunities for both
them and us. //
Relating back to shows, with so much remote working
from homes thanks to Covid-19, is it still as important to
get face-to-face with customers now as it was in 1995?
Tony Williams > It is just as important. Home working is fine for
many of our staff such as our internal sales teams, however, the
sociability aspect of the external Salespersons character, makes
it difficult for them to function as well behind a screen using
Microsoft Teams or Zoom. A physical call produces so much more
than you can ever achieve from behind a screen. There is no
substitute for a walk around a customer’s warehouse or shop,
spotting opportunities for both customer and us.
David Jackson > People buy from people. Video calls on
Microsoft Teams is brilliant, it’s certainly better than no meetings.
I think ultimately, however, you have to go and meet somebody.
Tony Williams > Expanding on this point, the business faces
challenges in 2021 regarding home working. The results of a
survey we conducted a few months ago clearly showed that
almost 95% of people who had moved from office‐based work‐
stations to home working, would not choose to revert. Many
would like the opportunity to ‘mix it up’ i.e. four days from
home, one day in the office. For many of them, the thought of
the commute to work after dropping children off at school or
nursery, battling the traffic jams and coping with the stress of
being late for work, and then having to repeat all of this at the
end of the day, is something they do not relish.
 ®

Industrial Bolting

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David Jackson > I think that is a good thing in many ways.
There is a work life balance. You don’t have to spend 40
minutes going to work and 40 minutes going home.
Tony Williams > I agree. As a business, we had no choice
but to make it work. IT played a huge part in ensuring the
connectivity and communications systems worked, and our
teams adapted remarkably well in changing the way they
operated. We are a business that is in tune with the work and
lifestyle balance. The needs of busy families, and of course
those of the business, are proving to be working cohesively. 24-7 Emergency Service
We’ve talked about some of the ways the fastener www.GoASF.com info@GoASF.com
industry has changed over the past 25 years, so what
about the future, five or even 25 years ahead for
the industry?
Tony Williams > I do not see a change in technology, I see an
acceleration of the use of this technology within our industry.
As the generation change progresses, we will see an increase
in the number of customers who will want to place their
orders without speaking to anybody.
David Jackson > Nevertheless, we get a lot of people who
like to pick up the phone and talk to us, but you look at the
younger generation coming through and they are much more
driven to the digital platforms and websites. I am sure this
industry will be slow in that process, so in the next 10‐20
years there will be a gradual drift towards that as the older
people like us retire and the new young ones come through.
It will all be about tablets and laptops and that availability at
people’s fingertips.
Packaging might change to become more recyclable as
well as smaller and lighter for health and safety, so no more Global Inch
30 kilo tubs. I think quality of packaging will get better, I
think the labelling will get better, I think the use of digital Fastener Solutions
information will get better, but I think fundamentally, people
will still buy bolts, nuts, washers and fasteners in boxes to
for more than
get shipped overnight.
David Jackson > The environment will become more of a
40 Years
concern for the industry in general, whether that’s trying to
recycle more or use different materials in the first place. We
can’t keep doing what we’re doing to the planet as we have
for the last century. It has to change and I am sure that we
will as an industry.

www.owlett-jaton.com

4EL  s&AX  

www.schroederschrauben.de
torque-expo.com 41
Wedge Anchor BZ3
Highest load capacity in cracked concrete
Unique flexibility in embedment depth, edge distance and spacing
Simple and safe in use

NEW!

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Phone +49 6374 9116-0 · Fax +49 6374 9116-60
info@mkt.de · www.mkt.de
25
YEARS
DELTALEIGH
IN FASTENERS

“A STEP INTO THE UNKNOWN”

Deltaleigh Managing Director Simon Haywood recalls how exhibiting at Fastener Fair’s debut
was a leap of faith but gave the firm chance to meet much of the industry for the first time.
Since those days, Deltaleigh has continued to adapt and implement new methods as the
business world changes…

Before the Fastener Fair in 1995, did you have any reser-
vations about it, or did you have high expectations?
The first show was really a step into the unknown, I doubt
anyone really knew how it would go. It was a gamble but defi‐
nitely worthwhile for Deltaleigh Ltd.

What was the atmosphere like at that first show?

I remember the hall being only partially filled with stands. The
floors weren’t completely carpeted and it was a very large area
for approximately 26 or 27 stands to try and occupy fully, quite to expect from Deltaleigh Ltd over the years. We are continually
daunting for those of us preparing for our first ever exhibition. adapting to the changing face of business be that through natural
progression or more recently circumstance. We are a relatively
Was it successful? small team and believe we will continue to grow through these
On reflection I’d say yes, it was the first time many of us had even uncertain times.
exhibited so whilst also the first show for Jerry [Ramsdale] it was
the first time many of us had even met. www.deltaleigh.co.uk
We continued to exhibit at all subsequent shows, I believe it
gave Deltaleigh (which was back then a relatively new company)
a good presence in the market, it certainly became a place our
customers old and new expected to meet us. Dot & Dab, Plasterboard Wall
In the 25 years since, 2020 has probably been the most Fixing Solutions!
disruptive for the fastener industry, thanks to Covid. Is
that fair to say?
2020 has certainly been a challenging year. It has seen business
change dramatically, not just to ensure the safety of staff and
customers alike, but also the way business is actually conducted
on a B2B level. I do believe certain aspects will return to ‘normal’ Rigifix is constantly rated as
eventually, but other areas will certainly remain changed forever. one of the best fixings available
when fixing into Dot & Dab
How has Deltaleigh fared this year? How has it adapted Platerboard Walls.
to Covid? Heavy duty applications include
Deltaleigh has adapted like most companies, much more of our s,
fixing Plasma TV’s, Kitchen Units,
sales are conducted via call or video which to date has gone Radiators, Boilers, Curtain Rails,
well. Our overall service remains unaffected. If anything it has Shelving and much more.
probably helped us streamline our procedures.
Available in Pre-Pack and Bulk
Boxes in both M6 and M8 versions. ns.
Next year potentially brings more disruption for the
fastener sector with Brexit. Do you see any particular
challenges or advantages? Coming Soon............
Brexit will obviously affect how a lot of our businesses operate
in the UK. I really don’t see it as more of a change than a
hindrance after all, changes were made when we joined the EU.
To perfectly compliment
Business adapted then and will undoubtedly do the same again.
the Rigifix range we are
Looking beyond Covid and Brexit, what will the fastener very soon going to be
industry look like in the next 5 (or 25) years? launching the Rigifix Lite.
As a company we remain committed to ensuring our customers This easy to fit combination fixing offers the simple
receive the quality of product, price and service they have come solution to fixing into dot & dab plasterboard walls.
Packs come complete with Drill bits and Screws.
For further information on these exciting products
Contact us on: TEL: (+44) 1422 824959
torque-expo.com 43 or visit: www.deltaleigh.co.uk DELTT LEIGH Fixings, Fasteners & Power Tool Accessories
TORQUE FOCUS
AUTOMOTIVE FASTENERS & TOOLS

LIGHTWEIGHT FASTENERS FOR A

GREENER AUTOMOTIVE FUTURE
Lightweighting is becoming even more important to the automotive market as it
contends with the new challenges of electric vehicles, set to become the standard in
the next 15 years in Europe and beyond. So what are the options? Yasin Boulakhras,
Application Engineer at Accu runs through some of the materials and fasteners that
can provide strong fastening without weighing too heavily the scales…

2
035 is the official year in which all petrol, diesel and
hybrid cars will come to an end in the UK ‐ no new
versions of these cars will be produced. Yet, this date is
highly likely to be brought forward in line with the majority of
Europe. There is now more pressure than ever before for car
manufacturers to produce cleaner, more efficient cars, leading
to industry‐wide discussions on lightweighting. Offering the
ability to increase range and performance in electric vehicles,
lightweighting has become the new buzz word in automotive
design, pushing engineers and designers down to the very last
gram. And it’s no surprise that fasteners are at the forefront of
this lightweighting phenomenon. On their own, fasteners don’t
account for much in terms of weight, but collectively, they make
up a big proportion of a car’s weight.
When thinking about how to save weight when it comes to
fasteners, choosing the right material is the first step. Tradi‐
tionally, fasteners in the automotive industry have been manu‐
factured from mild and hardened steel because they are cheap
to produce and offer excellent mechanical properties. But they
aren’t particularly lightweight.
// Metal fasteners have been
the go-to for many years in the
automotive industry. However,
they come with downsides... //
So, with increased focus on fasteners in recent years, more
exotic metals, such as aluminium, have begun to trickle down
from the aerospace industry and onto the factory floor of most
car manufacturers.
There are now more than 500 different types of aluminium,
offering varying characteristics, from high‐strength to high‐
heat resistant properties. Aluminium bolts, for example, offer
numerous benefits; they are lightweight, cheap, easily recy‐
clable and strong – perfect for use in joints which are subject
to varying temperatures. They also decrease the risk of
increased stresses in components, or dropped clamp load from
different thermal expansions.
However, while there are a number of benefits with
aluminium fasteners, there are other factors to consider, such
as the environment that they will be used in and what dissim‐
ilar metals they will come into contact with. One of the major
concerns with using aluminium is galvanic corrosion; a process
which happens when two dissimilar metals are brought into
electrical contact via a conductive fluid, such as water. This is
common in the automotive industry where aluminium bolts are
used in conjunction with steel parts. The lesser noble metal;
aluminium, electrically contacts the higher noble metal; steel,
resulting in the aluminium corroding, damaging the component
and making it highly unsuitable for areas of the car that are
likely to come into contact with water. There are, however, ways
to counteract this. Plastic washers, for example, can break the
contact between the two dissimilar metals.
An alternative fastener material that has also made its way
into the automotive industry from aerospace, is titanium. This
exotic material offers excellent strength, lightweight and excel‐
lent thermal and corrosion properties, allowing car manufac‐
turers to keep the strength properties of steel and stainless
with the added benefit of reducing weight. The only downside
to this material is price. The costs are a lot greater than steel
or stainless and these added costs in manufacturing are subse‐
quently passed on to the customer.
But what if metals weren’t the only fastener solution? After
all, there is an awful lot going on under the bonnet of a car, from
car oil to brake fluid, heat and humidity, meaning that the envi‐
ronment which fasteners are subject to is extremely harsh. As
this element of the car is so critical from a safety standpoint
and for vehicle reliability, metal fasteners have been the go‐to
for many years in the automotive industry. However, they come
with downsides; they are extremely prone to corrosion and
with all the fluids and chemicals in a car engine this can be
detrimental to reliability and safety of the car.

44 torque-expo.com
 // There is now more pressure than ever before for car
manufacturers to produce cleaner, more efficient cars,
leading to industry-wide discussions on lightweighting. //

That’ss why,
y more and more, the automotive industry is turn‐
ing to plastics as a way to save weight. They can now be chem‐
ical and acid resistant, dealing well with moisture and heat, and
are incredibly lightweight. The problem with plastics is that
they are not typically known for being strong. However, with
recent advancements in technology, this has all changed. They
are now becoming as strong as some metal fasteners; the auto‐
motive industry just has to be smart with the plastics it
chooses. Fiberglass epoxy is a popular plastic because
it is flame resistant. It is a composite material that
is made up of woven fiberglass cloth and an
epoxy resin, providing it with good strength
to weight ratios similar to some aluminiums.
Another favourable plastic is Thermoplas‐
tics Polyurethane (TPU), as it is a very
strong product and is significantly lighter
than metal, as well as being resistant to
chemicals, moisture and UV radiation. Electric cars are set to
Therefore, plastic fasteners are more become the standard
versatile than ever and they can provide a in just a few years
wide range of benefits. With the help of the
fastener industry, the automotive industry just
needs to do its research on which plastic is suited to
the application.
Not only does using different types of materials help the
automotive industry to save weight, but using different types
of fasteners does too. Pop rivets or blind rivets are a perfect
example. As they are often made from stainless steel or
aluminium, they can hold very thin types of material together,
with incredible strength retaining properties – all whilst being
incredibly lightweight.
Another fastener
f stener gaining popularity within the industry
fa industr is
thread forming screws. These ingenious fasteners are able to
join multiple layers of material without the need for tapped
holes. Numerous combinations of materials can join together,
saving multiple nuts and bolts that would have been used previ‐
ously. As more and more car manufacturers use aluminium
panels combined with composite panels and steel panels, it’s
the thread forming screw that is making this all possible.
Another great and simple way of saving weight
when it comes to fasteners is to think about the
head of a screw. Normal sized socket cap heads
are often used, however changing these to a
low cap head screw reduces weight and
replacing the drive type to a special drive,
such a TORX, allows car manufacturers to
generate the same amount of torque
required to fasten parts together but save
weight with reductions in head heights.
The obvious solution for a greener future
in the automotive industry comes down to
car manufacturers and the fastener industry
working together to help make the right choices;
whether that’s choosing a different fastener alto‐
gether or choosing standard fasteners in new advanced
materials. Careful consideration is required when making cars
lighter, and it can’t be at the expense of passenger safety.
That’s why Accu stocks a wide range of both rivets and
thread forming fasteners, specialising in stainless steel and also
offering more exotic materials with our custom manufacturing
service. To see the range, head to the Accu site.
www.accu.co.uk

torque-expo.com 45
TORQUE FOCUS
AUTOMOTIVE FASTENERS & TOOLS

SOLVING GREAT TECHNOLOGICAL

CHALLENGES > BRALO
Adaptation is key to success in the automotive market, and with three production
and distribution facilities in key worldwide locations, BRALO is (literally) well placed
to provide fastening systems for the automotive industry…

B
RALO, manufacturer and distributor of fastening systems,
has been working for over 35 years in the automotive
sector to offer a wide range of high quality solutions,
adapted to the requirements of its customers, which it incorpo‐
rates in its production processes regardless of where they are
carried out. Its three factories, located on three different conti‐
nents (in Spain, Mexico and China), ensure the production and
distribution of its products is wherever they are needed.
The automotive sector produces great technological chal‐
lenges and BRALO responds to the expectations of the sector
by creating innovative products with the latest technology. Its
production factories are based on the highest quality standards,
certified by an external certification body. BRALO is IATF 16949 BRALO has factories in key worldwide locations
certified enabling direct supply to OEMs and BRALO is ISO
14001 certified, supporting its commitment to environmental
management systems.
A well‐established SE‐Team (Simultaneous Engineering)
// The automotive sector produces
based on expertise of Quality, Manufacturing and R&D engi‐ great technological challenges
neers ensure that products are a suitable solution to individual
customer’s needs, focusing on values such as durability, safety and BRALO responds to the
and recyclability. expectations of the sector. //
The automotive sector makes up 30% of production. All
BRALO’s products are fitted inside and outside of vehicles:
doors, airbags, seats, roof, dashboards, body, etc; and not just philosophy enables the manufacturer to fulfil customers’
cars, but also trucks, buses or even heavy machinery. At the requirements quicker than many others, BRALO says. And if
same time the materials, processes and coatings cover all there are any problems or changes are requested, the company
costumer needs; no matter if parts need to be produced in has a very high speed response time.
aluminium, steel or stainless steel, BRALO has standard solu‐ BRALO has an innovative line of Visual Inspection Machines
tions and bespoke designs to cover specific needs according to that perform product quality control to ensure a “0” failure
the most demanding quality requirements. commitment to their customers. BRALO ensures parts are
In the automotive sector, adaptation is key to success, and delivered without defects and carries out a complete 100%‐
BRALO is able to respond quickly. Another advantage of using dimensional check on the most important dimensions.
BRALO products, either tools or fasteners, is the company’s
commitment to quality and innovation. The design to production www.bralo.com

BRALO can supply standards as well as manufacture

fasteners specific to customer needs

46 torque-expo.com
TORQUE FOCUS

NORMA’S NEW TWIST

SELF-TAPPING
AND
SPECIAL THREADED
INSERTS

N
ORMA Group has developed a new quick connector for
battery‐powered vehicles. The eM Twist is extremely
light and is space‐saving on installation, so it is ideally
suited for the usage in thermal management systems in e‐cars
and hybrids. The eM Twist was developed for the VDA type
spigot and it can be used in cooling water applications. Its
assembly‐friendly self‐locking mechanism can be securely
locked with a single movement and opened without tools by
twisting the locking ring.
“The shift in vehicle drives towards lower‐emission tech‐
nologies offers enormous potential for us,” says Dr Michael
Schneider, CEO of NORMA Group. “It is important to meet The FIXI self-tapping bushes are metal inserts with an
customer requirements precisely. With the eM Twist, we are
expanding our portfolio for the growing electromobility internal and external thread. They are used in either
market with an easy‐to‐install solution without compromising
on safety.” hard materials (steel, stainless steel) and soft materials
The eM Twist is optimised for use at operating tempera‐
tures of up to 110 °C and a maximum operating pressure of 2.5 (light alloys, plastics, copper, cast iron, wood) and
bar, geared to the temperature range and pressure require‐
ments of electrically powered vehicles. Its low assembly force provide high performance mechanical fixings.
makes it easy to install.
During development, NORMA Group's engineers concen‐
trated on the essential components and the best possible use
of materials. The connector saves around a third of CO2 in
production and the supply chain compared to similar connec‐
EASY INSTALLATION
tors in conventional cooling systems. The main reasons for this
are the optimised use of raw materials in product design and HIGH PERFORMANCE
less emissions through transport of the components.
Production of the eM Twist will initially start at NORMA MONEY SAVING
Group’s plant in Pilica, Poland. In the future, production can
be expanded to other locations.

www.normagroup.com MAIN OFFICE

NORMA is expanding its
electromobility portfolio 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-expo.com 47
WEBINAR REPORT
TAIWAN EXCELLENCE
TAITRA
GOES DIGITAL
As fastener shows around the world face
cancellations and online adaptations, TAITRA
host its Taiwan Excellence webinar in Taiwan
which welcomed more than 200 visitors…
T
he Taiwan External Trade Development Council
(TAITRA) hosted its successful Taiwan Excellence Build‐
ing Material and Fastener Webinar in Taipei, Taiwan, on
30 October, and welcomed more than 200 buyers and media
from around the world.
The webinar provided global participants a closer look at
Taiwan’s top brands and their innovative building material and
fastener products that improve user quality and safety. These
brands included King Slide Works Co, Ltd, TRONCO Electric
Machinery, Inc, Sheh Kai Precision Co, Ltd and Sheh Fung
Screw Co, Ltd.
The webinar concluded with business match‐making
sessions for participants to further interact with brand repre‐
sentatives. Simon Wang, Executive Vice President, TAITRA,
says the brands are all ramping up production and actively
seeking global, collaborative opportunities with buyers as well
as other product manufacturers.
Attendees were impressed by the presentation of stellar prod‐
ucts offered by these four top industry brands, says TAITRA.
King Slide Works Co, Ltd > presented three revolutionary
safety designs including “Ever‐Active Push‐Open Design”,
“Vibration Safety Design (VSD)” and “Switchable Push‐Open
Design,”, among which the product “SIMLEAD Safety Drawer
System with Push Open, Soft‐Closing and VSD” was selected
for the Taiwan Excellence Silver Award in 2019.
48 torque-expo.com
Sheh Kai Precision Co, Ltd > presented a comparison
between screw anchors and expansion anchors, demonstrat‐
ing the high‐quality products available to buyers. Its concrete
screw anchor won the Taiwan Excellence Award 2017, featur‐
ing high ductility within the load bearing area of the fastener,
and lowering the sensitivity of the fastener to damage by
embrittlement by way of hydrogen as well as corrosion.
TRONCO Electric Machinery, Inc > presented an intelligent
automatic door system that marries systematic integration
and mechanical design. TRONCO’s door systems assure
customers of safe and secure operation within a variety of
settings. The SW30 series of Automatic Swing Door System
incorporates microprocessor servo controllers that bring the
benefit of precision door position control and smooth noise‐
free operation. It is also a green electric system with high effi‐
ciency power supply units. Its stand‐by power consumption
takes below 0.5W, offering a superior energy, cost‐effective
automatic door solution. The built‐in obstruction detection
feature reacts to the lightest touch on the doors when closing
to prevent accidents.
Sheh Fung Screw Co > is an enterprise affiliated to Sheh Kai,
and a fastener brand offering quality and safety for the user.
Sheh Fung said it has developed an exclusive, superior corro‐
sion resistance coating for its fasteners and offers customisa‐
tion for different uses. Sheh Fung’s Timber Construction Screws
have the characteristics and function to let users handle them
more easily and save more time by their patent design to
reduce screw torque and the risk of splitting wood.
The winners of the Taiwan Excellence Award look forward
to partnering with international buyers to bring their innova‐
tions to global building material and fastener markets.
en.taitra.org.tw
Many webinars post videos of the event online for
industry executives to catch up on at their leisure
 Quality welding studs

OBTEC GmbH Hüingser Ring 52 Tel.: +49 (0)2373 89-1166

58710 Menden Fax: +49 (0)2373 89-1238
Germany info@obtec.eu

www.obtec.eu

Watch the video!

THINK SAFE
Setting process monitoring
toring inside!
> Cost-efficient
> High process reliability
> Avoidance of quality costs

TAURUS ® C WINTECH
SAFE. PRECISE. ALWAYS RIGHT!

The experts in riveting technologies GESIPA Blindniettechnik GmbH T +49 (0) 6105 962 0
Nordendstraße 13-39 F +49 (0) 6105 962 287
64546 Mörfelden-Walldorf info@gesipa.com
Germany www.gesipa.com
 CASE STUDY
SPHINX INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES
GROWS ITS BUSINESS BY DIGITALLY
TRANSFORMING ITS OPERATIONS
WITH OGL SOFTWARE
When time-consuming manual processes are holding your
business back, OGL Software is on hand to help…
S
phinx partnered with OGL in 2015 having realised it
needed to remove the manual processes that were hold‐
ing it back in order to reach its full potential. With big
plans to extend its trade counter, showroom, services, and
website, Sphinx needed a software solution that centralised
and digitalised its processes to manage multiple sales channels
and become more efficient and effective.
Prior to OGL Software, Sphinx used QuickBooks which “was
terrible”. The Finance Director explained to us that “there was
just no stock management in QuickBooks so our stock was all
over the place because we couldn’t keep track of what was
coming in and going out. As the company grew bigger and the
number of customers and product lines increased, it just
became a headache.”
The manual processes involved in managing their stock and
taking orders meant the staff couldn’t focus on growing the
business and instead spent hours doing admin. “All our back
orders were done manually, we all had to remember what
customers had ordered and when they needed it and as we got
busier and busier, that became a big challenge.
The Sphinx Industrial
Supplies team
50 torque-expo.com
“We have a trade counter too which had an A4 folder where
we recorded customer orders. I’d then have to sit for two
weeks just pricing all the handwritten notes and invoicing. I
wouldn’t do any of my sales or finance role because the paper‐
work was huge. You couldn’t view customer pricing on Quick‐
Books so you’d have to look through customer paperwork, it
was just impossible to keep on top of.”
“OGL Software has helped to streamline everything. We
wanted to expand without employing more people and the
system helps massively to manage all our sales channels
because we can easily see and control all our stock in one place.
“We use the system in everything we do, especially order
processing, purchasing, eCommerce, warehouse management
and pricing structures.”
// OGL Software has helped
to streamline everything. //
Needing an integrated eCommerce system was a key driver
for choosing OGL Software and thankfully the website helped
Sphinx to ride out the 2020 global pandemic, increase sales
revenue and promote its brand.
“We had a website before for four years and we never had
an order. That speaks for itself. We are now getting 8‐15 orders
a day on our new website and it’s only been live a year. We also
get a lot of calls from prospects looking at the website, so we
need to take that into account when looking at its value, it’s a
great promotional tool.”
When looking at the first lockdown period during the
pandemic, Sphinx explains: “I think we still would have been
here [after the lockdown], but we would have struggled. The
website has saved us. It was just processing orders because
people could see what we sold and the stock we had. The
website kept us ticking over the whole time. Sales revenue
increased by 300% during that period, it’s been manic.”
Implementing OGL Software, a fully integrated ERP system,
has helped modernise Sphinx’s operations which has enabled
them to improve their customer service, increase productivity
and efficiently grow their business. Embracing technology has
enabled Sphinx to stay flexible and adaptable in the ever‐
changing climate.
www.ogl.co.uk/software
www.sphinxindustrial.co.uk
 Rapid Industrial Fasteners Ltd
Honest lead-times you can rely on...
Say goodbye to ‘should be’
ISO9001-2015 Manufacturer of special Fasteners
M1.6 - M100, Componets and Turned parts

• Proudly 40 years old, established 28th November 1980

• Can work from your free issue material
•..7ERHGIVXMǻGEXMSREZEMPEFPI
• T CARD system for complete visability
• Shift work for emergency jobs and break down

Materials we manufacture from include:

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

Rapid Industrial Fasteners Manufacturing Hub

27 Lye Valley Industrial Estate, Stourbridge DY9 8HX
Telephone : 0121 501 3903
Email: manufacturing@rapidfast.com
www.rapidfast.co.uk
 FASTENER
MANUFACTURING PRINZ
GERMANY – SÜDWESTFALEN – PLETTENBERG
“PRESERVE TRADITION
AND SHAPE THE FUTURE”
PRINZ continues to be a leading automotive specialist in the fastener industry
as a visit from Torque magazine sheds light on the manufacturer’s success
since it was established nearly 150 years ago…
PRINZ manufactures fasteners almost
exclusively to customers drawings.
F
ounded in 1875, PRINZ is one of the leading manufac‐
turers of fasteners for the automotive industry, the
household appliance industry, window construction and
the tool industry. With a production area of 16,000 m², the
company use the cold forming methods to process more than
8,000 t of steel per year directly from the coil into high‐quality
connecting elements.
PRINZ manufactures fasteners almost exclusively to
customers drawings and works with companies such as BMW,
Mercedes Benz, Bosch and more and as its mission statement
contests, products that leave PRINZ are of the highest quality
and meet all customer requirements 100%.
PRINZ has more than 180 employees and more than 10
apprentices who work to continuously develop optimisation
processes to ensure the best quality of fasteners leave the
warehouse. Additionally, all products are carefully checked for
their internal, metallurgical quality. To do this, PRINZ uses the
latest digital image processing as well as microscopic and
macroscopic examinations of the finished parts.
Last year saw the fastener manufacturer sell approximately
137 million parts with an annual turnover of €32.5 million and
its exports at 50% worldwide. It is therefore no surprise that
PRINZ remains one of the leading fastener suppliers for the
automotive industry.
Now in its fifth generation, PRINZ continues to work under
the motto: “Preserve tradition and shape the future”. This is
done through continuous renewal and expansion of the
machine park. Its preliminary rounding is done by the commis‐
sioning of two six‐stage presses for the production of products
with a diameter of up to 20mm and the construction of a 100%
test using automated testing technology. The addition of a new
52 torque-expo.com
production hall of more than 1,500m² serves to optimise
processes and increase efficiency.
2012 saw the company expand as it added approximately
1,000m² of production to its portfolio to improve the area
process flows in shipping and to expand automated testing and
analysis. Additionally, the company also expanded its production
capacities in 2014 through a major investment of almost five
million euros for a machine package with two multi‐stage
presses, two thread rolling machines and one testing machine.
Technology used at the company includes: upsetting
(forming), rollers, straightening and cutting, flattening and
punching, toolmaking.
Cold forming technologies carried out at PRINZ include >
Upsetting
Bending
Flat die thread rolling
Round die thread rolling
Stamping
Machining welding
Surfaces/ hardening and tempering
Assemblies
Further project specific features
It is difficult to predict what the future holds during such
unprecedented times as many industries experience one of the
hardest economical challenges in the last decade, however, it
seems likely that PRINZ will continue to produce fasteners
of the highest quality whilst keeping a solid foothold in the
automotive sectors and more.
www.prinz-h.de
 FASTENER
MANUFACTURING R+FK SCHULTE
GERMANY – SÜDWESTFALEN – PLETTENBERG

HIGH-END STAMPING TECHNOLOGY

Innovation is key for Plettenberg-located washer and stamped parts business, rfks

drawing parts according to customer specifications, all produced

with its state of‐the‐art machinery.
With a comprehensive service and a customer‐oriented
approach, customers include fastener wholesalers, the exacting
automotive industry and its suppliers, screw and dowel manu‐
facturers, machine and steel construction companies and more.
Innovation is key to the RFKS philosophy. Continuously devel‐
oping and improving production processes, with the help of

I
n 1938, toolmaker Friedrich Karl Schulte set up a factory
building in Plettenberg and began production of washers and
stamped parts. In 1954, the Schulte brothers decided to join
forces and created Rudolf & Friedrich Karl Schulte oHG, Pressund
Stanzwerk, which became the more concise Rudolf & Friedrich
Karl Schulte KG in 1976.
Just as in its early days, R+FK Schulte (RFKS) still produces
stamped parts, as well as embossed and bent products. And just
as it started, the business is still family‐owned and headquar‐
tered in Plettenberg, only now with 160 employees and process‐
ing more than 30,000 tons of flat steel annually.
modern machinery and material combinations, RFKS aims to
Among the milestones of the RFKS business came in 2004
keep production costs low for customers and partners and keep
when the company bought a 12,000m² site (once part of a
the business one step ahead.
German railway company), paving the way for extensive expan‐
sion over the following decade or so.
www.rfks.com
High-end stamping technology
German‐made high‐end stamping technology is today’s focus for
RFKS, backed by technology expertise. Featuring its own tool
manufacturing unit staffed by well‐trained specialists, RFKS can
also count on large raw material stocks, modern packaging lines
and a logistics centre for stock.
Supplying not only a wide range of DIN/ISO washers, the
manufacturer also offers a broad production range of special and

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 Online Product Guide:

Fax: +44 (0) 117 - 972 8570 www.avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk
Email: sales@avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk Unit 10, Riverside Business Park, St Anne’s, Bristol, BS4 4ED, UK.
 FASTENER
MANUFACTURING KALELILER FASTENERS
TURKEY
FROM A SHOP TO A GROWING
MANUFACTURER AND SUPPLIER
Kaleliler has been a reliable supplier for steel fasteners since the 1990s but
the firm has changed and grown considerably from its humble beginnings...
K
ALELİLER Fasteners was founded by Mr Kazım Kaleli in
1995 in Ankara, Turkey as a small 35m² hardware shop
with a team of five. Today, Kaleliler is manufacturing and
selling to Europe in a factory of 9,500 m² covered area in a total
area of 14,000 m² in Ankara/Saray with a team of 132.
Production
Kaleliler’s production facility can manufacture a wide variety of
fasteners. There is bolt production, stud bolt and anchor bolt
production, nut and special fasteners production via hot forging
& cold forming methods with different steel and stainless steel
raw materials and electro‐galvanized coating. Hot dip galvanised
coating and Geomet coating applications can be applied as well.
In the machining section, the business manufactures custom‐
made parts to meet the requirements of different industries.
Fast production of superior quality fasteners is possible
thanks to Kaleliler’s machinery and equipment, from an auto‐
matic cutting unit to a hot forging unit, a heat treatment &
machining unit, the thread rolling unit, the coating unit and a
quality control laboratory.
Kaleliler can produce a wide range of fasteners with its KLR
marking bolts and screws between M12 – M72 diameter up to
length of 900 mm. It also produces threaded rods and studs
between M8 – M220 mm, with all length nuts between M20 –
M72. Anchorage bolts and bended items like U‐Bolts and J‐Bolts
are also manufactured by the business. In addition to a wide
range of manufactured products, Kaleliler also has a considerable
range of stock items for all type of fasteners.
Sectors and quality control
With such a wide‐ranging production facility, it perhaps comes
as no surprise that Kaleliler supplies a broad range of markets
and sectors, including:
Energy > Renewable energy, wind turbine power plants,
thermal coal power plants and hydroelectric power plants.
Petrochemical plants and refineries.
Bridge and tunnel construction
Industrial plants
Steel constructions
Airport constructions
Machine industry and heavy machinery
Kaleliler’s Quality Control Laboratory sees all checks and tests
performed by qualified engineers. Checks begin from raw mate‐
rial handling and the results are registered by the help of ERP
programs including CANIAS, and related 3.1 B certificates
according to EN 10204 standard are generated, so that the firm
can guarantee traceability to its clients.
54 torque-expo.com
Kaleliler’s Quality Control lab
The well-stocked QC lab features >
Universal tensile tester (600 kN & 1500 kN )
Hardness tester (Micro Vickers)
Hardness tester (Mechanical) (HRC-HRB)
Impact test machine
Coating thickness measurement device
Magnetic particle testing device
Spectral analyser
Calipers, micrometers and other measuring instruments
Profile projector
Metal microscope
Cutting machine
Bakelite press
Polishing machine
Nuts & bolts gauges
Traceability is handled with an ERP program while all production
and quality control steps are registered in the computer system
beginning from the handling of raw material and right throughout
the process. For more information on Kaleliler’s offering to the
fastener industry, contact the firm directly via:
info@kaleliler.com.tr
export@kaleliler.com.tr
www.kaleliler.com.tr
KALELILER FASTENERS’ CERTIFICATIONS
ISO 9001:2015 (TUV NORD)
ISO 14001:2015 (TUV NORD)
ISO 45001:2018 (TUV NORD)
TSE EN 15048-1_01.07.2020 ÜRÜN MARKA BELGESİ (TSE)
TSE EN 14399-3_01.07.2020 ÜRÜN MARKA BELGESİ (TSE)
TSE EN 14399-4_01.07.2020 ÜRÜN MARKA BELGESİ (TSE)
TSE EN 14399-5_01.07.2020 ÜRÜN MARKA BELGESİ (TSE)
TSE EN 14399-6_01.07.2020 ÜRÜN MARKA BELGESİ (TSE)
TSE EN 1025-Splm_06/01-073096
EN 14399-1:2015 EN 15048-1:2007 (SZUTEST)
CERTIFICATE OF CONFORMITY DAST Richtline 021 (SZUTEST)
RÜZGAR ENERJİSİ EKİPMANLARI YERLİ ÜRETİM BELGESİ
T.C. TÜRK PATENT ve MARKA KURUMU (MARKA TESCİL) 2007-70787
INTERVIEW

GESIPA > DRIVING VALUE

AND EMBRACING CHANGE
Urs Langenauer became Gesipa Managing Director and Head of the Riveting Division in SFS
Group last year, after over two decades with the group. While it’s been an eventful period
to have taken the helm (not least with the company celebrating its 65th anniversary in
2020), SFS’ former head of Automotive North America spoke with Torque Magazine
about disruption, longer term trends in the market and embracing change…

56 torque-expo.com
You’ve been head of the Riveting Division for almost a
year and a half now – it has been quite a disruptive period
to be in the role...
I have actually been with Gesipa parent SFS Group for 25 years
on 1 August. Yes, coronavirus has certainly impacted us all. SFS
Group has a large presence in China so we had a lot of insight
and communication early. Thanks to our colleagues in China, we
had already looked at things like best practice and communi‐
cated about it before even the German government started to
be active on Covid rules.
Another advantage we had was our IT system, so we were
ready to move our office team to work remotely thanks to our
system. It was definitely eventful, but from that point of view
it was controlled and with no major issues. We know the virus
is still out there, but we have a lot of safety measures in place.
There have been changes from an employee perspective;
Video calls have become a daily tool, in our Walldorf headquar‐
ters everyone puts on a mask as soon as they leave their desk…
From a company perspective, we started strong in the first
quarter then corona had a big impact in April and business
progressively improved. We’ve seen improvement in Germany
and also in other countries. No one is jumping up and down
about the sales numbers, but we were able to control our costs
to the point that the results are acceptable.
SFS Group results for HY 1, saw the fastening systems
division seemed almost at last year’s levels – so it
sounds like things are better than expected?
For us it was quite a mixed bag. It feels like construction didn’t
really slow down much while the automotive riveting business
unit was clearly down. Overall for the SFS Group, I would also
say the results for the first half were definitely solid.
Automotive does seem an important sector for Gesipa
and SFS, and has clearly been hit quite hard by Covid.
Are you seeing signs of recovery?
Clearly the automotive market shut down plants for quite a
while and actually came back quite strong in September.
However, the question is always, how much is just reducing
the backlog that has accumulated? And how much is people
buying cars again? In Germany, new car registrations were
significantly down in July and August, so we will see.
If you look back at the financial crisis, there were a lot of
concerns, but the reality is that two years later, people still
need to drive cars and buy cars, they still need to replace them.
The business comes back.
That comparison of the impact of Covid to the
2008/2009 financial crisis has been made a few times...
Clearly the cause is different. I would also say the development
was different. Globally you can see that government and central
banks have clearly learned from the credit crunch. For this
crisis, they were quick to improve liquidity. The challenge here
is you are dealing with another dimension. Back then the health
of employees was never impacted. Health of employees is obvi‐
ously very important and we are very concerned about it.
When sales and revenue disappear, you have to act quickly
on costs. You use the opportunity to improve the organisation
and keep going on projects. From that point of view, that’s defi‐
nitely an area where there are parallels.
One thing I feel is different is that in the financial crises every‐
one stepped on the brake, but the behaviours of how we do
things didn’t change much. Coronavirus has changed how we
do things dramatically. Video conferences, e‐shops… people that
probably had never used an online shop have become experts
in using them. Coronavirus has had a really disrupting dimen‐
sion that we probably have not seen in the last financial crisis.
Has it been hard to implement social distancing in
warehouses and plants?
In the offices it was quite simple, you can say work from home. It
is more complicated in the warehouse. On the production line you
can add plastic boards between people where it is not possible to
wear face masks, and you can stagger lunches, for example.
Germany is Gesipa’s biggest market, so how big is the
UK business?
It’s definitely an important business for us, we have Germany
which is our largest market historically. UK is a strong market,
also the US.
Will you be looking to launch into new markets?
I have a lot of respect for the history of the company, one of
the impressive things about Gesipa is that it has had a very
good distribution network around the world for a long time.
The company was at the pulse in a lot of markets quite early
on and still is. Something interesting right now is that some
Chinese automotive suppliers are starting to build up manu‐
facturing in the Balkans.
Clearly it will be an unusual few months ahead with
corona, but looking further in the future, what are your
goals for Gesipa?
Coming back to corona, the market is also changing. One
excellent example is when you look at mobility. E‐mobility has
been gaining market share quickly through the coronavirus
pandemic. Politically the signs are there that e‐mobility will
gain even more traction, and this is a field where there are a
lot of fastening solutions, so that clearly also impacts us.
I think the other topic is our distribution models in the
future. What impact does e‐commerce have on our industry ?
I personally also believe, while everyone talks about digitali‐
sation – what we’re not talking about enough as an industry is
decarbonisation, climate neutrality. I believe, as an industry it
torque-expo.com 57
INTERVIEW
will impact us. CO2 emissions will become more expensive.
Steel production today is very CO2 intense. Our industry uses
a lot of steel. In the further term it will definitely impact us all.
When I speak to senior fastener executives, this topic is
coming up more often. Is Gesipa addressing it?
As SFS Group we publish a sustainability report. That’s at
group level, but it impacts Gesipa. There are expectations today
from shareholders as well as from some of the larger customers
to reduce our carbon footprint. For SFS Group, protecting the
environment has been part of our policy for a long time.
In terms of progressing the company, are you developing
new products to grow business?
Our energies are concentrated on what we can create to help our
customers. Not just how can we build value for us, but also how
can we add value for the customer. We want to be focused on
our strengths that are riveting technology and its application.
The Brexit transition period is coming to an end – is it a
concern for Gesipa?
We are preparing for it, Gesipa UK´s managing directorand her
team have been planning and I think we are as ready as we
// It's challenging...
but if we are able and
willing to accept and
embrace change, then
the future is ours. //
58 torque-expo.com
can be. I think the challenge for us and our colleagues in the
UK is that Brexit adds another dimension of uncertainty. But
on the other hand, I am Swiss and Switzerland is not part of
the EU but is somehow working together, so apparently there
are models that seem to work, that’s my hope after the noise
and things become clearer. No one is sure what is really being
discussed away from the headlines. One thing we learned in
the last four years is that politics have got much louder.
Have you got any final thoughts for our readers?
Personally speaking, it’s definitely challenging at the moment,
but we have built a good team here and I know we are ready
for the future. Some topics have been accelerated by corona and
I believe having good people using common sense and being
willing to learn and change, to accept and embrace change, then
the future is ours. I am very positive. We are able and willing to
adapt to whatever the challenges for the future are.
I had to fly from the US into Europe around January when
people were just starting to wear face masks. It looked strange
at the time, but now we have all adapted. It clearly shows if we
have to change as humans, then we are surprisingly adaptable.
www.gesipa.de
TORQUE FOCUS
ABRASIVES AND CUTTING TOOLS

MAKE THE CUT >

5 TOOL TIPS
Knowledge is where distributors and merchants can offer a point of difference over
pure play retail. FEIN UK’s Managing Director shares knowledge from the tool
industry stalwart on how to speed up projects with Torque Magazine readers…

I
t’s often said that a “poor workman blames his tools,” which
is an odd thing to say as many installers will know that
without having the right tool, some jobs are virtually
impossible! And, to use another well‐worn phrase, because
“time is money” it’s especially important to make sure that
your toolkit will help you finish a task as quickly and efficiently
as possible, and to a high standard.
As a manufacturer of power tools and accessories, we’ve
built up a lot of experience at FEIN in understanding what the
equipment installers use every day needs to provide, so that
they can work quickly, accurately and to a high standard. We’ve
used this knowledge to create the following list of tips to help
identify the tools that will enable installers to complete a
project as swiftly and efficiently as possible.
The importance of multitasking
Tools that can tackle multiple tasks are a great way to
streamline your working processes, as they enable you to
spend more time focused on the work and less time setting
up and packing down equipment, or making trips to the van.
They also enable you to complete a multitude of jobs, while
generally having less gear to move around. Oscillating multi‐
tools are a good example, as they can be used for a long list
of jobs, such as sawing metal and plastics, cutting tiles, sili‐
cone joints and carpets, scraping out adhesives, polishing
and much more.
Our MultiMaster range for instance, is compatible with
Starlock. Meaning, users can benefit from up to 180 acces‐
sories and 100% power transmission.

// Our MultiMaster range is compatible with

Starlock, so users can benefit from up to 180
accessories and 100% power transmission. //

The FEIN MultiMaster range

60 torque-expo.com

Easy to swap out attachments
If you do opt for using multi‐tools over single‐purpose power
tools then it’s important to have the right attachments to hand
and know that they can be easily swapped out without any
hassle or fiddly connections.
Tools that have a simple click‐on connection avoid losing
time when switching between tasks, with some systems
enabling you to carry out quick tool changes in a matter of
seconds. The connection between the motor and the attach‐
ment also determines the power transfer between the two and
therefore needs to be robust as well as easy‐to‐use.
Having clear visual indicators on the attachment, such as its
specifications and intended application, is another bonus, as
it further speeds up the process of working out what tool you
need next.
Having accessories and spares on hand
Even by using multi‐purpose tools it’s likely that you’ll need
a long list of accessories as well as backups for the
blades/drills/sanding pads/etc. that you know you’re going
to be using a lot. Choosing a kit that keeps all of this together
and in one place might seem like a simple idea, but the stress
and time that it’ll save when that one crucial blade breaks
and you can’t remember where you put the spares is worth
its weight in gold.
The importance of durability
Using low‐quality tools for intense jobs or for too long risks
equipment breakages, which will slow things down while you
wait for a replacement. Even if the tool survives, it also risks
the installer being in a situation where they just don’t have
enough power to do the work properly.
Also, there is no guarantee a tool will have the ability to put
out a lot of power for a long duration of time. This is particu‐
larly the case with battery powered tools as, if the battery is
not properly protected, then it can be affected by overloading,
overheating and total discharge issues.
Easy to swap out attachments
will save end users precious
time on the jobjob, says FEIN
Getting the right amount of power
Whilst we’re discussing power, it’s important to get the power
level right, particularly when it comes to cordless tools. In
general, an 18‐volt motor that provides 450 watts of power
will be sufficient to handle extreme loads for a long period of
time. Bear in mind though that different 18‐volt motors have
different levels of performance, which will affect the intensity
of work it can do. In addition, not all motors are the same, and
ideally you want to choose one that is not only powerful but
which can generate power at constant speeds even under load
and which is also not going to be too heavy.
For example, FEIN’s MultiMaster 700 has an incredibly power‐
ful 450‐watt high‐power motor which is suited for continuous
use and overload for maximum cutting speed and rapid work
progress. This multi‐tool has the ability to saw wood, metal and
plastics, while also quickly cutting out tiles, and it comes with up
to 60 accessories, making it ideal for an array of jobs.
Having the right tool for the job not only means that the
work can be done quicker and better, but it also provides peace
of mind for an installer that they have what they need at their
fingertips and therefore don’t need to worry about breakages,
failures, replacements and a lot of unwanted hassle sucking up
their valuable time.
FEIN is the specialist brand of quality and reliable
power tools and accessories for the metal working and
interior sectors. As the inventor of the first electric
handheld power tool, FEIN has been developing innova-
tive and efficient solutions for everyday use by indus-
try and manual trades for over 150 years, and now has
a wide range of power tool products. FEIN also offers
an extensive range of special accessories, which are
tailored to pre-defined applications for professionals.
www.fein.com
torque-expo.com 61
 BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION
FIXING UP
A LONDON
LANDMARK
Fixings expert fischer supplied Zykon
panel anchors FZP II with nuts and drilling
technology to securely install a limestone
façade in a high profile London building…
R
egent’s Place is a prime site in London’s West End hous‐
ing international businesses like Facebook, Santander
Bank, the headquarters of department store chain
Debenhams HQ as well as investment management company
Dimensional Fund Advisors LP.
The location, which also houses retail, restaurant and other
recreational facilities, has recently undergone an extensive
renovation project, not least at 1 Triton Square, where the
building will extend from five to eight stories, with four large
roof terraces. Covering a whopping 366,000 ft² (34,000 m²)
and increasing space by 127,000 ft² (approx. 12,000 m²), more
room has been made available for retail and office rental.
310,000 ft² (approx. 29,000 m²) of office space have been pre‐
let to the Dentsu Aegis Network, a global communications and
media consultancy firm.
During the refurb, British Land Company PLC focused on the
requirements of the building’s users as well as on targeting
various client groups. The original character of the ‘90s‐
constructed building has been maintained during updates,
with one of the main factors being the design of the building
envelope. This contract was awarded to façade specialist Josef
Gartner GmbH of Gundelfingen, Bavaria, which belongs to the
Italian headquartered Permasteelisa Group. The task involved
maintaining the object’s familiar features while giving it a fresh
and modern look. The single‐leaf façade made of glass and
natural stone was refurbished and expanded on a total sur‐
face of 120,500 feet² (approx. 11,200 m²).
The majority of the existing façade and extension was reused
and partially refurbished, which corresponded with the
project’s sustainable BREEAM‐certified approach. New façade
surfaces were also added over the course of the building’s
extension – facade panels were installed over a surface of
approx. 2,300 m². The panels consist of the French “Val de Nod”
62 torque-expo.com
FISCHER
// We offered the right solution
for the project, consisting of
undercut anchors, nuts and
drilling technology. //
limestone and measure 900 x 450 x 40 millimetres. The lime‐
stone panels were securely installed in the anchor base using
approx. 24,000 fischer Zykon‐panel anchors FZP II. The under‐
cut anchors were supplied with nuts featuring a custom geom‐
etry. The façade system consists of stainless steel (A4) and is
therefore corrosion resistant. The Zykon panel anchors FZP II
are installed in natural stone without expansion pressure.
“To begin with, conical drill holes are created before an
undercut hole is drilled,” says Detlef Postler, Project Support
fischer Façade systems. “Next, the anchors simply need to be
expanded using the setting tool before being connected with
the substructure. We offer complete systems with the corre‐
sponding accessories from a single source for this purpose.”
This technique offers many advantages, explains Steven‐
Henrik Maier, Market Manager fischer façade systems: “In
comparison to edge fastenings, the load‐bearing capacity
increases and the bending stress of the panel is reduced by up
to 50% by attaching the anchors to the reverse side in a struc‐
turally optimised position, the so‐called 1/5 point.
“And that’s not all, as the undercut anchors also provide opti‐
cal advantages in comparison to edge fastenings by providing
a harmonious look between the gaps without any visible
fixings elements.”
Postler adds: “We offered the right solution for the project,
consisting of undercut anchors, nuts and drilling technology.
Also thanks to local expertise at our national subsidiary fischer
UK, we were able to provide not only prompt engineering
support for those involved with the construction project,
consisting of planning and calculation services, but also on‐
site assistance by our local ACT expert Jeff Holmes. We will
continue to do so until the project's successful completion.”
www.fischer.group
 FEBRUARY + MARCH 2021 SPECIAL

BE SEEN IN STUTTGART
IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO EXHIBIT AT STUTTGART 2021, THE
FOLLOWING OPPORTUNITY MIGHT BE OF INTEREST TO YOU

LOW-COST AND EFFECTIVE

From our
Torque 2019 Print
edition
Magazine will
publish a targeted
Fastener Fair
Stuttgart Preview –
spread over
2 key issues.

I Guaranteed presence in 2 issues – February

print + March digital
I 100 words each + image/company logo + stand
details + contact details
2019 digital edition
viewed on iPad
I Let our readers/the visitor know you are
exhibiting and where to find you
I We will do the layout/design for you
I Deadline 25 January 2021

DON’T MISS OUT – CONTACT ME TODAY TO GET YOUR BUSINESS INCLUDED IN THIS SPECIAL FEATURE

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+44 (0) 1727 739 160
harry.whyte@torque-expo.com
 BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION
ADHESIVES, SEALANTS & FILLERS

// This white, solvent-

free, water-based DON’T
sealant is highly flexible,
with a joint movement
capability up to 12.5%
CRACK UP
and can be overpainted UK sealant and adhesives manufacterer
within one hour. // Bond It discuss its new No Crack Caulk
sealant with Torque Magazine…

CUTTING WASTE
AND SAVING COST
Cutting the use of Single Use Plastics is
driving sales, saving cost and waste, explains
Scarlet McAleese-Banks, Marketing Director
of Hilton Banks.

T
he rise of more environmentally friendly sealants and
adhesives is a responsible move in the right direction.
Plastics are finding their way into our seas and oceans,
and of those plastics that are sent to landfill, some take over
a thousand years to breakdown in the soil.
There is little doubt that the construction sector and its
product suppliers need to take action. Research by the
company found that 87% of small to medium sized tradespeo‐
ple said sustainability and the environmental impact of
construction work is an important issue for them. 97% believe
the industry could be less wasteful in terms of packaging and
81% would expect the cost of more sustainable packaging to
be the same.
HB42 is listening to the trade and working to tackle the
pressing environmental problem of disposing of the single use
plastic cartridge. In 2019, the company launched its best‐sell‐
ing HB42 All‐in‐One Sealant and Adhesive in 400ml Eco Foils.
The 400ml foils produce 95% less waste than the single use
tubes and users get 38% more sealant than in the 290ml plas‐
tic tube. Using the latest MS Polymer technology, the product
seals, sticks and fills, is flexible up to 230%, can be over‐
painted and works in the wet. It is low in Volatile Organic
Compounds (VOCs) and bonds to almost anything; it is also
food safe, fully curing in 24 hours.
For merchant customers, moving away from Single Use
Plastics and switching to foils can be a strategic and socially

64 torque-expo.com
 ALL NEW IN

2020
B
ond It, one of the UK’s fastest growing manufac‐
turers of sealants, adhesives and building chemi‐
cals, has launched a new sealant to complement
its already growing silicone and sealant range.
No Crack Caulk, introduced under the company’s
Superheros Brand, is a water resistant, high quality
decorators caulk that prevents craze cracking when
painted. This white, solvent‐free, water‐based sealant is
highly flexible, with a joint movement capability up to
12.5% and can be overpainted within one hour.
With excellent gap‐filling properties this hard wearing
caulk contains a fungicide to retard mould growth and
is suitable for use on both interior and exterior jobs.
In addition, caulk adheres to most surfaces without
the use of a primer and is non‐corrosive to metals. It is
more resistant to movement than most standard caulks )FBE
0GGJDF
Unit G16, River Bank Way, LowGields Business Park,
Elland, West Yorkshire HX5 9DN
and is longer lasting. Furthermore, it is perfect for
Tel: +44(0)1422 315300,
sealing around window frames, architraves, cornices Email: salesuk@bonditgroup.com


www.bonditgroup.com
PVC profile trim & cladding, plasterboard joints and for
$)&$,
065
063
4*-*$0/&

"%)&4*7&
3"/(&4

'03
"--
:063
'*9*/(
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sealing cracks and gaps in plaster, brickwork, concrete,
skirting boards and walls.
For more information on Bond It contact the Sales
Team on 01422 315300 or visit

www.bond-it.co.uk

Nylon insert nuts

Cleveloc nuts
High grades
Castle nuts
responsible business decision. It can also be a decision
that makes financial sense too. According to a 2019 Nyloc dome nuts
survey from Hotwire, 47% of internet users worldwide
said they had switched to a different product or service Stover nuts
because a company violated their personal values. As
Stover flange nuts
society’s attitude changes, merchant suppliers will need
to adapt their products and the packaging they come in. Fine pitch
The good news is that we are already changing minds
and we have seen a 20% increase in sales of Eco‐Foils Full and lock nuts
through merchants in 2020 and it is a trend we want
to build on. And stacks more!
www.hiltonbanks.com Caxton Way, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 3RY
Email: nuts@dsfasteners.co.uk www.dsfasteners.co.uk

THE SELF LOCKING NUT SPECIALISTS

Call us on +44 01842 763000 or fax on +44 01842 764055
torque-expo.com 65
 INSPECTION AND QUALITY ASSURANCE
ON CLOSER INSPECTION
We hear from two expanding QA labs – Owlett-Jaton’s in the UK and a bolt maker in Spain…
Part of Owlett-Jaton’s
revamped QA facilities
OWLETT-JATON INVESTS IN NEW QA FACILITY
Significant investment in a new laboratory at Owlett‐Jaton’s
Head Office in Staffordshire will provide a new base for its
Quality Assurance Team. Moving locations has presented an
opportunity for Group Quality Manager Steve Phillips to
improve the existing facilities into a single dedicated fit‐for‐
purpose department located within the Stone operation.
“The move has allowed us to expand and has provided us
with two dedicated rooms, one for sample preparation and
limited re‐working of products, whilst the other room
provides a clean environment for performing inspection and
conducting investigations.
“Our optical inspection equipment includes both a Keyence
IM‐7000 Image Dimension Measuring System together with a
more traditional Mitutoyo shadowgraph, allowing us to
inspect parts to a high level of accuracy. We also carry out on‐
site hardness determination to Rockwell B&C scales, and a
significant range of the traditional ring, plug and caliper
gauges are still invaluable and enable us to inspect a large
sample of incoming products.”
// The move has allowed us to
expand and has provided us with
two dedicated rooms. //
66 torque-expo.com
Owlett‐Jaton’s goods inwards inspection process is rigorous,
spot‐checking ~50% of inbound fasteners ensuring they
conform to the relevant national and international manufac‐
turing standards. A bespoke fastener orientated inspection
system is employed, the system provides the dedicated goods
inwards inspector with all the information he needs to effec‐
tively assess the products without having to reference the
applicable manufacturing standard. The inspection system is
integrated with the purchasing supplier approval system,
providing the inspector with insight as to which manufacturers
or products he should focus on if required.
The majority of critical fasteners are sourced from reputable
approved manufacturers and are supplied with certification,
typically a 3.1 to DIN‐EN‐10204. The quality department are
also equipped and have access to NAMAS (The National
Measurement Accreditation Service) approved test facilities
which allow more advanced product verification documents to
be produced, such as an ISIR (Initial Sample Inspection Report).
Customers at the enquiry stage can also request a PPAP
(Production Part Approval Process) submission from the
manufacturer, an essential requirement for the supply of auto‐
motive components.
Regarding changes in customer requests and market trends,
Phillips explains: “There is an increasing focus on environmen‐
tal issues and we are being asked more and more often for prod‐
uct conformance to REACH (Registration, Evaluation,
Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) and RoHS (Restric‐
tion of Hazardous Substances). This isn’t a trend which is going
to go away, it will only grow in momentum and our purchasing
practices are changing to reflect this. We are also keeping a close
eye on developments such as the EU SCIP database (substances
of concern in articles, as such or in complex objects/products)”.
www.owlett-jaton.com
Ring gauges
 General Inspection HALO for
cutting B-1 with Feeder

BOLT MAKER PICKS GENERAL INSPECTION’S HALO

Davisburg, Michigan‐based General Inspection (Gi) has
installed another HALO inspection system, this time for
a bolt maker in Spain. This particular HALO is equipped
with a total of eight cameras providing 360° dimensional
inspection, 360° visual defect detection, crack detection,
recess inspection and recently developed bottom
cameras for bearing surface analysis.
The standard HALO uses four cameras that produce
eight images through a patented light sequencing
process. HALO measures all profile features including;
threads, lengths, diameters, tapers, angles, straightness,
perpendicularity and concentricity with back lighting.
Simultaneously, HALO detects surface defects such as;
dents, scratches, knurl damage, thread nicks and patch
quality/presence with front lighting positioned from the
top and bottom.
Additionally, two cameras positioned from the top are
used to detect cracks and recess defects. A special lens
plus Gi’s software algorithms combine to deliver opti‐
mum crack detection capability at unmatched inspection
rates, says Gi. A second special lens is used to view the
inner walls of recesses to detect small chipped punch
defects, plating fill and dimensional measurements of
recess features.
Finally, three cameras mounted from the bottom
provide bearing surface inspection. Defects such as
cracks, burrs, dents and other damages are detected
using Gi’s sophisticated algorithms, advanced lighting
techniques and a special “unobstructed view” part
handling technique.
After searching the world for an inspection system that
provides complete part coverage the Spanish bolt maker
selected Gi. Defect detection was key to the purchase
decision, but inspection rates at a minimum of 285 parts
per minute and less than 10 minute part changeover time
were important factors. want to build on.

www.generalinspection.com

torque-expo.com 67
 market
ENSURING THE DIY
BOOM CONTINUES
With an additional £550 million expected to be spent in Q4 2020 thanks to
lockdown 2, suppliers to the DIY market have an opportunity to embrace the
extended season. Will Jones, Chief Operating Officer of the British Home
Enhancement Trade Association (BHETA), provides his views…
A
s I write, the UK is going into Lockdown 2 – which it goes
without saying has implications for every aspect of
personal and commercial life. One of the big differences
for our sector this time around is that hardware is deemed essen‐
tial and so consumers and professional end users will still have
the choice of bricks and mortar and online purchase. And predic‐
tions are that they will keep on purchasing!
According to data, insights and consulting company Kantar,
Brits look set to spend £4.94 billion on improving their homes
and gardens between September and Christmas as DIYers say
they still have work to do. 34% of consumers intend to complete
jobs before Christmas and if shoppers follow through with their
plans, it will mean an additional £552 million is spent on DIY
between September and December compared with last year.
This includes an extra £124 million on garden work and £119
million on the home; and the sales opportunity extends from true
DIY across to ‘do it for me’, so the opportunity for tradespeople
also remains despite the lockdown challenges.
This is a huge opportunity for tools and fixings and while it may
sound cynical to say so, it means that the traditional ‘season’ for
sales has just extended. So, everything depends on the ability of
suppliers and retailers to reach the tools and fixings end user –
professional or consumer – regardless of the restrictions under
which we might be trading.
It goes without saying that online ‐ supplier platform or retailer
platforms, ideally both – has already proved key, and will
undoubtedly continue to do so. The positive sales projections
from many BHETA members have most commonly been from
those who were able to access their end customers via these
routes; and the popularity of the BHETA webinars on digital strat‐
egy and how best to go direct is also testament to the acceleration
of ecommerce.
But ecommerce capabilities alone are not enough. Customer
engagement is at least as crucial, as is the ability to get the product
– physically ‐ to where it is needed. One tool company that has
had a success on both those fronts and as a result has seen busi‐
ness flourish during the pandemic is BHETA member, DK Tools.
The Greater London‐based company manufactures and
68 torque-expo.com
distributes hand tools and power tools for the home, garage and
garden under the Amtech name, selling to both wholesale and
retail trade customers. Throughout the first Covid lockdown, it
saw the huge surge in enthusiasm for DIY projects; and one of the
company’s key strategies was to focus not just on making sales,
but on educating end users about the skills they needed to use
the tools correctly. To do this DK Tools used its dedicated
consumer website to feature both detailed Q&A and personalised
video tutorials to demonstrate products are used to best effect.
Ricky Johal, Head of Marketing, commented: “We are aware of
a generational skills gap in DIY and have been developing online
tutorials to assist the younger consumers. We saw a significant
increase in watch time on our YouTube channel, showing the
value our customers see in these videos.”
At the same time, DK Tools made sure it was able to supply
product to meet the demand using its dedicated business‐to‐busi‐
ness (B2B) web portal, supported by its warehouse operation.
Such was the success that the company was able to action a major
push to encourage new stockists to come on board. Johal contin‐
ued: “This has been incredibly successful; and we’ve seen a huge
interest in potential new stockists registering. We’ve also ramped
up our email communications by creating a weekly newsletter to
keep customers informed about the latest trends, products and
industry insights.”
As we all experience Lockdown 2, the tools industry must
embrace the extended season and keep momentum going. Suppli‐
ers need to invest not only in the way consumers and end users
now shop, but also in the way they make decisions about purchas‐
ing one product as opposed to another. Inspiration and education
are both key. As is easy, instant product availability.
That means looking to marketing and to operations, as well as
to sales and routes to market.
To find out more about how BHETA can help, and to register
for BHETA webinars, including the opportunity to pose
questions, contact Nicola Adams in BHETA Member Services
on na@bheta.co.uk or on 07946 078566
TEUDELOFF & TOOLING INTERNATIONAL
WE THINK AHEAD
WORLDWIDE

AUTOMOTIVE • AEROSPACE • WOOD • CONSTRUC TION • WHITE GOODS

QUALITY

SERVICE

SECURITY

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world class recess punches & fastener tooling

LQIR#WHXGHORႇGH (XURSH 7HXGHORႇ*PE+ &R.* your trust worthy

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VDOHVXV#WHXGHORႇGH (America) partner for more
7HO
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than 25 years
 2021 FEATURES
JANUARY (enhanced digital)
Online catalogues, brochures and
webshops
PREVIEW > Eisenwarenmesse –
International Hardware Fair Cologne
IT services, software and e-business
FEBRUARY (print)
Rivets, rivet tools and rivet technology
Hand tools and consumables
Rail fasteners
IT services, software and e-business
Building & Construction > Wood,
chipboard and decking screws
Fastener Fair Stuttgart preview 1
TERRITORY FOCUS > North America
MARCH (enhanced digital)
Hexagon and socket screws
Connected & smart tools
Fastener Fair Stuttgart preview 2
APRIL (print)
Fastener distribution special
Nylon and plastic fixings and fasteners
Drill & screwdriver bits
Building & Construction > High tensile
(HT) and bolt assemblies
PREVIEW > Fastener Fair USA
Fastener Fair Stuttgart (SHOW ISSUE)
TERRITORY FOCUS > UK
TERRITORY FOCUS > Taiwan
Submit an article or idea for consideration to jonathon@torque-expo.com
MAY (enhanced digital)
TERRITORY FOCUS > Nordic countries
Special fasteners
Sheet Metal – Structural Engineering
JUNE (print)
Nuts, washers and locking systems
Tools > Made in Germany
Machines & tooling
Building & Construction > ETAs and
Accreditations
Rising Stars > 30 under 30
Renewables > Fasteners and tools
TERRITORY FOCUS > Italy
JULY/AUGUST (print)
Women in fasteners special >
North America
QC laboratory focus
Oils, sprays and lubricants
PREVIEW > International Fastener Expo
PREVIEW > Taiwan International
Fastener Show
PREVIEW > Torque-Expo Telford
Building & Construction > Structural
timber fasteners and connectors
TERRITORY FOCUS > Netherlands &
Benelux
REGULAR FEATURES
WOMEN IN FASTENERS & TOOLS
BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION
APPRENTICE Q&A’S NEW
TORQUE TESTED
SEPTEMBER (print)
Fastener manufacturing special
Stainless steel fixings and fasteners
Torque tools (torque wrenches, etc)
Workwear, PPE and safety
Building & Construction > Anchors
TERRITORY FOCUS > China
OCTOBER (enhanced digital)
Rivets, rivet tools and rivet technology
Plugs, plasterboard and cavity fixings
Janitorial supplies > Wipes, cleaners,
sprays, etc
NOVEMBER (print)
C-parts, logistics and Kanban
Connected & smart tools
Automotive fasteners & tools
Surface treatment
Building & Construction > Adhesives,
tapes, sealants and fillers
Turkish manufacturing

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OPPORTUNITY
TO PROMOTE YOUR
PRODUCTS TO OVER
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DECISION MAKERS
Torque Directory offers a cost-effective
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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 for the year
CALL +44 (0) 1727 739 160
FOR MORE DETAILS
DIRECTORY
SPOTLIGHTS
Welcome to this
month’s NEW
ADDITIONS
ND Industries, Inc.
I Self-Locking & Sealing Fasteners
I Adhesives & Sealants
I Thread-Locking & Patch Products
I NAS Fasteners
T +1 248 288 0000
E info@ndindustries.com
W www.ndindustries.com
Rapid Industrial Fasteners
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) 121 501 3903
E manufacturing@rapidfast.co.uk
W www.rapidfast.co.uk
Victory Fasteners Limited
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
T +44 (0)1902 544 480
E sales@victoryfasteners.com
W www.victoryfasteners.com
ND Industries specialises in the
development and production of
innovative materials and processes
which increase the safety and
reliability of fastener assemblies.
ND Industries applies a wide
variety of materials onto fasteners
and assemblies to aid in functions
such as locking, sealing, masking,
lubricating, and noise and vibration
dampening. ND Industries supplies
high-quality fastener coating
products and services to industries
such as automotive, electronics,
aerospace, marine, military,
construction, and appliance.
Unique manufacturer AND
distributor of fasteners, fixings
and turned parts. We manufacture
fasteners and turned parts out of
all standard and exotic materials in
our own workshop. We have state
of the art machinery including a
sliding head turning centre. We
also carry large stocks of
galvanised fasteners.
One of Europe’s largest
stockholders of blanks and
semi-finished fasteners in grades
8.8/10.9/12.9/SAE 8/European
BL/L7 in all head forms.
Our standard stock range in grades
10.9/12.9 includes Hex
bolts/sets/Flange/ in metric
coarse, fine and extra fine threads.
8.8 10.9 12.9 B7/L7
 DIRECTORY
YOUR HANDY GUIDE TO DISTRIBUTORS, SUPPLIERS
AND MANUFACTURERS IN THE INDUSTRY

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
ADI Supply Ltd
Achilles Seibert
I Resin anchors
I Hexagon socket screws/bolts I Shield anchors
I Hexagon head screws/bolts I Through bolts
I Special/drawing parts I Window frame screws
T +49 4193 8955 I CFA approved tester
E info@achill-fasteners.com E sales@adisupply.co.uk
W www.achill-fasteners.com W www.adisupply.co.uk

Albert Pasvahl Apex Stainless Fasteners Ltd

I Set screws
I Plugs
I Knurled thumb screws
I Hexagon screws/bolts
I Special scews
T +49 [0] 40-53 28 52 – 0
E info@pasvahl.de
W www.pasvahl.de
Ambrovit Bolts + Screws
I Carpentry wood screws
I Carpentry wood spacer screws
I Carpentry wood terrace screws
T + 39 (0)382 810280
E sales@ambrovit.it
W www.ambrovit.it
I Stainless steel fasteners
& fixings
I Aerotight nut
I Stainless steel screws/nuts
I Stainless steel washers
T +44 (0) 1788 537979
E sales@apexstainless.com
W www.apexstainless.com
Avon Stainless Fasteners
I Marine products
I Stainless fasteners
I Stainless steel semi-standard
T +44 (0) 117 972 8560
E sales@avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk
W www.avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk

Boltfast Bolt World Fasteners Ltd BRALO UK Ltd

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
I 10.9 hex bolts/set
I 10.9 allthread
I Class 10 full nuts
I Grade 10 nylocs
I Thru hardened washers Din6916
T +44 (0) 1922 749 357
E info@boltfast.co.uk
W www.boltfast.co.uk
I Stainless Steel Fasteners & Fixings I Blind Rivets
I Threaded Bar I Insert Nuts
I Security Fasteners & Fixings I Rivets tools
I Wood/Masonry Screws I Fastener and Fixing
I Electrical Cables I Lockbolt and Structural Rivets
T +44 (0) 1375 767 780 T +44 121 567 3230
E sales@boltworld.co.uk E info@bralo.com
W www.boltworld.co.uk W www.bralo.com
BRESCO MECHFAST LIMITED
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) 1623 883 000
E sales@mechfast.co.uk
W www.mechfast.co.uk
Bülte GmbH
Kunststofferzeugnisse Deligo DS Fasteners Ltd
I Nylon screws I Wedge nuts I All metal self locking nuts
I Nylon nuts I Channel nuts I Fine pitch nuts
I Nylon washers I Wire suspension systems I High grade nylocs
I Nylon bushings I Heavy and light duty fixings I Serrated flange bolts
I Nylon spacers I Electrical accessories I Stover nuts
T (+49) 02591 / 91 94 - 0 T +44 (0) 1384 824100 T +44 (0) 1842 763 000
E info@bulte.de E sales@deligo.co.uk E nuts@dsfasteners.co.uk
W www.bulte.com W www.deligo.co.uk W www.dsfasteners.co.uk

Francis Kirk Group
I Socket screws: Unbrako,
Holo-Krome, Durlok
I Philidas: Steel and
stainless steel
T +44 (0) 161 336 2631
E sales@franciskirk.com
W www.franciskirk.com
Gesipa Blindniettechnik GmbH
I Blind rivets
I Blind rivet nuts
I Automatic riveting
I Blind rivet tools
I Setting process control
T +49 (0) 6105 962 0
E info@gesipa.com
W www.gesipa.com
Güde GmbH
I Spring lock washers
I Sperrkant washers
I Sperrkant spring washers
I Contact washers
I Conical washers
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)
JCP Construction Products
I Hardened (masonry) steel nails
– blue/black and zinc plated I Fasteners
I Stainless steel nails (304 & 316) I Fixings
Icon Fasteners I Sealants
I Aluminium nails
I Red copper nails I Fasteners & fixings I Adhesives
I Brass nails T +44 (0)1902 491 122 T +44 (0)20 8943 1800
T +31 314 333441 E icon@icon-fasteners.co.uk E jcpenquiries@owlett-jaton.com
E hjz@hjz.nl W www.hjz.nl W www.icon-fasteners.co.uk W www.jcpfixings.co.uk

Kebrell K-Engineering NE Fasteners Ltd

I Commercial fasteners & fixings
I Automotive fasteners
I Flange joint sets
I Specials to drawing
I 20,000 tonnes of stock
T +44 (0) 121 526 6049
E kebrell@kebrell.co.uk
W www.kebrell.co.uk
I Allthread 1Mtr/3Mtr/3Ft I Furniture Fasteners
I Washers Lederer GmbH I Woodscrews
I Nuts I Kitting
I Stainless steel fasteners
I Cup square I Decking Screws
I Special parts by drawing
I Roofing bolts I Drywall Screws
I C-parts management
T +44 (0) 1922 749 350 T +49/2333/8309-0 T +44 (0)121 559 8866
E info@k-engineering.co.uk E info@lederer-online.com E nefasteners@aol.com
W www.k-engineering.co.uk W www.lederer-online.com W www.nefasteners.co.uk

OBTEC GmbH OGL Computer Owlett Jaton Peter Schröder GmbH

I Welding-studs I Fully Integrated ERP Software I Fasteners & fixings I Inch Sized Fasteners
I Cold-forming parts I Warehouse Management System I Abrasives I USA Fastener
I Bolts I eCommerce Integration I Sealants & adhesives I MS – AN – Na
I Screws I Cyber Security I Agricultural & building I ASTM Standards
I Rivets I IT Solutions I PPE & workwear I Special Screws and Parts
T +49 2373/89-1236 T +44 (0) 1299 873873 T +44 (0) 1785 826167 T +49 713299600
E wennrich.stephan@obtec.eu E enquiries@ogl.co.uk E ojtinfo@owlett-jaton.com E info@schroederschrauben.de
W www.obtec.eu W www.ogl.co.uk W www.ojtrade.co.uk W www.schroederschrauben.de
pgb-Europe nv
I Bolts & Nuts
I Wood, chipboard and decking
screws
I Light duty anchors Precision Technology Supplies
I Heavy duty anchorss I Stainless steel fasteners
I Chemical anchors and fixings
T +32 9 272 70 70 T +44 (0)1342 410758
E info@pgb-europe.com E info@pts-uk.com
W www.pgb-europe.com W www.pts-uk.com
Smith
Bullough
Smith Bullough
Sheh Kai Precision Co., Ltd.
I Blanks and finished stock
I Hammer Drill Bits
I Metric and inch in all grades
I Bimetal Concrete Anchors
I Non standard bolting
I Carbon Steel Concrete Anchors
I Special forgings
I Bimetal Screws
I Stainless and special alloys
I Stainless Steel Screws
T 886-7-622 5669 T +44 (0)1942 520250
E info@shehkai.com.tw E sales@smithbullough.com
W www.shehkai.com W www.smithbullough.com
Star Fasteners
I Huck® Lockbolts & Blind
Structural Fasteners
I Associated Tool Hire, Service &
Repair
I VVG / Rivdom Tool Distributor
Stainless Threaded Fasteners I Fasteners & Fixings
I Fasteners & fixings I Sealants & Adhesives
T +44 (0)1902 499 213 T +44 (0) 115 932 4939
E enquiry@stf-fasteners.co.uk E sales@starfasteners.co.uk
W www.stf-fasteners.co.uk W www.starfasteners.co.uk
TOBSTEEL GmbH
I High corrosion resistant
Tite-Fix Ltd
fasteners & fixings
I Wood Screws
I Stainless steel A2, A4, 1.4571,
I Decking Screws 1.4462, 1.4529
I Construction & Engineering I 1.4462 (DUPLEX), 1.4529 (HCR)
Screws I DIN 125, 127, 439, 912, 931,
I Specialist & Bespoke Screws 933, 934, 976, 980, 985, 1587,
I Screw-Tite® 6334, 7991
T +44 (0) 844 571 0003 T +49 (0) 7941 6073-0
E sales@tite-fix.co.uk E info@tobsteel.com
W www.tite-fix.co.uk W www.tobsteel.com
WASI GmbH
Stainless steel
fasteners/components
Volt Industrial plastics
I Standard parts (DIN / ISO etc.)
I Nylon products I Maritime accessories
I Plastic fasteners I Solar mounting systems
I Plastic nuts I Special and drawing parts
I Plastic washers I levelling adjustment elements
I Plastic spacers
T +49(0)202 / 26 32-0
T +1 (870) 449-8027 E info@wasi.de
W www.voltplastics.com W www.wasi.de/en
Schäfer + Peters GmbH
S&P I Screws
I Design software for anchoring I Nuts
I Structural timbers I Washers
I Installation systems I Bolts
I Reinforced concrete I Stainless steel
T +49 341 4424610 T +49(0)7941 6094-0
E info@sup-scs.de E info@schaefer-peters.com
W www.sup-scs.de W www.schaefer-peters.com
Our part in every solution
Socketfast Stafa
I Socket caps I Bolts/Structural bolts/HV bolts
I Socket countersunks I Nuts
I Socket buttons I Washers
I Socket shoulder screws I Screws
I Socket flange buttons I Threaded rods
T +44 (0) 1922 749 363 T +31 495 599 888
E info@socketfast.co.uk E info@stafa.nl
W www.socketfast.co.uk W www.stafa.nl
Taiwan Precision Fastener Co., Ltd.
The Insert Company (UK) Limited
I Patented Wood Screw
I Wood Screw I Zinc alloy inserts
I Mill Point Self-Drilling Screw I Steel inserts
I Self-Drilling Screw I Brass threaded inserts
I Furniture connectors
I Self-Tapping Screw
I Special turned parts
T +886-7-616-2089
E sales@taiwan-precision- T +44 (0) 121 4397329
fastener.com E sales@theinsertcompany.com
W taiwan-precision-fastener.com W www.theinsertcompany.com
fasteners tools distribution magazine
TORQUE MAGAZINE
I Daily news website TR Fastenings
I Weekly email newsletter I Sheet Metal Fasteners
I 5 print magazines a year I Enclosure Hardware
I 5 digital magazines a year I Plastic Hardware
I Events I Fasteners for Plastic
I International reach I General Fasteners
T +44 (0) 1727 739 160 T +44 (0) 8454 811 800
E info@torque-expo.com E sales@trfastenings.com
W www.torque-expo.com W www.trfastenings.com
PROMOTE YOUR
BUSINESS
Appear in Torque’s print
and digital magazines
throughout the year
CALL+44 (0) 1727 739160
FOR MORE DETAILS
 torque-exp
o.com

What you may have missed in

Torque Magazine’s ENHANCED digital issue...
OCTOBER 2020 http://magazine.torque-expo.com/issue-1020

COVER PROFILE > GESIPA

CALIBRATION THE EASY WAY
Secure data for satisfied customers

FOCUS > RIVETS, RIVET TOOLS & RIVET TECHNOLOGY

RIVET RUN DOWN
Featuring Accu, JRP, Rivetwise, Rivit, Scell It and Stanley Engineered Fasteners

FOCUS > NYLON AND PLASTIC FIXINGS AND FASTENERS

FANTASTIC PLASTIC
Torque Magazine rounds up nylon and plastic fasteners including Hexstone, Bülte
In addition to our six print magazines Plastiques, fischer and Tecfi...
(and PDF replica), four completely separate
issues are purely ENHANCED digital issues.
GALLERY TOUR > MAKITA USA
With increasing business-to-business trade 50-MILLION-DOLLAR EXPANSION
being conducted online, Torque magazine‘s We take you on a tour of Makita USA’s huge new distribution, service and training
ENHANCED digital editions harness best centre in Reno, Nevada...
practice in digital and links readers directly
to B2B sites, websites, web shops, digital
catalogues and more – providing a useful
tool to readers and stakeholders. To subscribe to Torque Magazine visit:
Circulated worldwide, Torque Magazine’s https://torque-expo.com/subscribe/ or scan this QR code...
ENHANCED Digital editions offer readers
new and engaging interactive features.

Have you missed any of our previous enhanced digital editions?

Head to www.torque-expo.com/magazines for our back
catalogue of ENHANCED digital magazines.

What’s next...
JANUARY 2021 MAY 2021
FOCUS > Online catalogues, brochures and webshops TERRITORY FOCUS > Nordic countries
PREVIEW > Eisenwarenmesse – International Hardware FOCUS > Special fasteners
Fair Cologne FOCUS > Sheet Metal – Structural engineering
FOCUS > IT services, software and e-business

OCTOBER 2021
MARCH 2021 FOCUS > Rivets, rivet tools and rivet technology
FOCUS > Hexagon and socket screws FOCUS > Plugs, plasterboard and cavity fixings
FOCUS > Connected & smart tools FOCUS > Janitorial supplies > Wipes, cleaners, sprays, etc
PREVIEW > Fastener Fair Stuttgart preview

@Torque
Expo
Torque E
x po
@torque
expo
FUTURE PLANS for Torque Magazine and Torque-Expo

TORQUE MAGAZINE >

WHAT’S IN STORE FOR 2021
These may be unusual times, but the fastener industry has proved particularly resilient
during this pandemic. Indeed, Torque Magazine published one of its largest issues yet in
autumn 2020. Now, as the industry looks ahead to 2021, Torque Magazine wanted to
fill its readers in on some of its plans for the year ahead…

T
orque Magazine is becoming even more interna‐
tional than ever in 2021, making a permanent step
into mainland Europe as International Sales
Manager Harry Whyte relocates to Germany and West
Virginian native Tom Keenan, Sales Manager for North
America, focuses across the Atlantic.
Known to many in the international fastener industry,
Harry Whyte, is already set up in Germany: “After 20 great
years in the UK, I am excited to be based in Germany, in
order to serve my clients in Europe more effectively,” said
Whyte. “It also means that Torque is prepared for what‐
ever the ‘Brexit hurdle’ will throw at us as we’ve got facil‐
ities on both sides of the Channel.”
Meanwhile, Tom Keenan is heading Torque Magazine’s
work across the pond: “I am honoured and excited to be
covering the North American market for Torque
print/digital magazine. I was born in Jacksonville, Florida, EVOLVING WITH THE INDUSTRY >
grew up in West Virginia “Let’s Go Mountaineers!” and Torque Magazine will continue its now well‐established
prior to moving to the UK, I spent 10 wonderful years blend of print and digital media to reflect the changing
living and working in Atlanta, Georgia. While based here industry. This balance will be tweaked in 2021 following
in the UK, I have continued to work with both the North the fastener industry’s renewed appetite for print maga‐
American and International companies within the publi‐ zines. Off the back of one of its largest print issues in five
cations/events sectors, covering emerging technologies, years, Torque Magazine will switch to six print magazines
textiles and distribution. a year starting in 2021, while retaining four of the
“I am excited to be bringing my skills to Torque Interna- enhanced digital issues, the latter offering a more interac‐
tional. We will be having some exciting features that will be tive experience for readers with picture galleries, videos,
of interest to my fellow American clients, including a direct links to webshops and guides, and more. The email
special territory focus on North America, a focus on women newsletter will continue to deliver essential news and
in fasteners in North America and highlighting industry opinions for the fastener industry once a week.
rising stars, while promoting our digital capabilities to
capture the growth of your millennial customers!” YOUTH FOCUS >
Football pundit Alan Hansen famously said you can’t win
anything with kids, only to be proven spectacularly wrong
as Manchester United went on to have one of modern
football’s biggest winning streaks (with a team averaging
a sprightly age of 26 years).
Torque Magazine has opted for conventional wisdom by
mixing youth with experience, including some of the most
seasoned fastener publishing and events executives in (possi‐
bly) the world, all the way through to fresh‐out‐of‐university
> Harry Whyte > Tom Keenan journalistic talent in newest recruit Liberty Sheldon.

76 torque-expo.com
 2021 will see, however, a Torque Magazine Editor Jonathon
greater focus on the younger Harker adds: “Like everyone in the
generation of fastener executives fastener and tool industries, we’ve
by Torque Magazine. This will take adjusted to new working practices this
the form of regular interviews year and it’s just as important that we
with apprentices in the fastener continue to evolve and innovate into
industry and a special look at 2021. We’ve got plenty of new ideas –
rising stars in the sector, as well as like our recently launched Guest
> Liberty Sheldon > Claire Warman
other initiatives targeting the Editor initiative – so watch this space!”
younger generation of fastener and tool industry executives. Publisher Jerry Ramsdale concludes: “We like to think
With an emphasis on digital as well as print, Torque Maga- that we offer something a bit different, for the Interna‐
zine is well placed to keep connecting these different parts tional fastener and tool industry, with leading edge ideas
of the industry. in our publications and with new ideas in the exhibitions
we organise.
SHOW BUSINESS > “Since launching Torque Magazine in June 2015 we have
This year, getting face‐to‐face with customers in the come a long way, my thanks to our team, our contributors,
fastener industry has been harder than ever. With demand advertisers and readers from around the world who like
for a return to selling at shows hitting new highs, Torque‐ what we do.”
Expo is stepping in.
Claire Warman, UK Sales Manager for Torque‐Expo & GET IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM >
Torque Magazine, explains: “Whilst Torque is taking further harry.whyte@torque-expo.com
steps in the international market, we still maintain a strong Tom@torque-expo.com
presence in the UK now more than ever, and we are excited Claire@torque-expo.co.uk
to be bringing Torque‐Expo back in the autumn next year.
It’s been a strange year, we have missed that face‐to‐face Jonathon@torque-expo.com
contact with our loyal clients and very much looking libby@torque-expo.com
forward to seeing you all again soon.” jerry@torque-expo.com > Jerry Ramsdale

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX
Accu Group 01 Martyn Price Fasteners 09
Achilles Seibert GmbH 21 Matatakitoyo Tool Co., Ltd 59
Albert Pasvahl GmbH & Co. 09 Mecavit Srl 79
Alloy & Stainless Fasteners 41 ND Industries 02, 03
Ambrovit SpA 07
O G L Computer Services Group Ltd 28
Apex Stainless Fasteners Ltd 29
OBTEC GmbH 49
Avon Stainless Fasteners Ltd 53
Berardi Bullonerie Srl 42 P G B Europe NV 11
Birlik Baglanti Elemanlari Ltd 67 Peter Schröder GmbH 41
Bond It 65 Rapid Industrial Fasteners Ltd 51
D S Fasteners Ltd 65 Schäfer + Peters GmbH 13 ISSUE 049
November-December 2020
Deltaleigh Ltd 43 Screwerk GmbH 27
F Reyher Nchfg GmbH & Co KG 23 Sheh Kai Precision Co. Ltd 69
Fixi Srl 47
Teudeloff GMBH & Co. KG 69
GESIPA Blindniettechnik GmbH 49
The Insert Company (UK) Ltd 05
Harrison & Clough Ltd 35
Tite-Fix Ltd 37
Hexstone Ltd 80
Kaleliler Baglanti Elemanlari Ltd Sti 55 Victory Fasteners Ltd 11
Lederer GmbH 08, 10 Volt Industrial Plastics Inc. 15
MKT Metall-Kunststoff-Technik GmbH & Co. KG 42 WASI GmbH 25
 MILESTONES

TRUSTING
HOFFMAN
We’ve regularly featured 100-year old-
plus fastener and tool related businesses
as part of this regular milestones
section. But this is the first time we’ve
covered a business celebrating its very
first milestone, already earning a
dependable reputation…

Tim Paddison, Hoffmann Group UK MD

T
he first year in the life of a business can often be make
or break, so reaching 12 months is always a significant
milestone. Hoffman Group UK celebrated its first year
in business in style, with a string of hires that have increased
its headcount by approximately 20%.
Earlier this year, the system partner for tools, workstations
and PPE reorganised its business with the appointment of
customer‐facing technical experts; Chris Gordon and Angela
Hatfield as key account managers, covering the whole of the UK,
and Paula Rose as area sales manager,
following 10 years at Cromwell.
The business has also boosted its
PPE, site service and business devel‐
// As we move into 2021,
mented earlier this year to provide the businesses’ growing
customer base with a more bespoke, effective service through
bolstering the number of experts available to advise and
consult with clients. Through this, the business has boosted
its expertise, introducing dedicated support for large national
accounts and additional specialised resource to support
services such as inventory management, calibration and main‐
tenance, repair and operations (MRO). Additional investment
has also been committed towards computer aided design
(CAD) software for its in‐house
specialists, further broadening its
technical and design capabilities.

opment divisions, both regionally our goal is to build upon Future milestones
and nationally. Dharmesh Devabhai Hoffmann Group UK also has major
joins as PPE specialist, bringing with the strong foundations expansion plans in place for 2021.
him a wealth of experience in keep‐ we have laid in place Specifically, there are plans in place to
ing people safe at work. Amber increase headcount further to support
Bloore has joined as site service co‐ and strive for bigger the launch of Connected Manufactur‐
ordinator, with the remit of support‐ ing, a smart software solution for an
ing vending contracts and additional
and better goals for efficient manufacturing organisation.
services across the country. Gary the business. // Looking further ahead, the business
Quinney has also joined the business also has plans in place to double in
as senior technical support – bids size by 2023, through more effectively
and tenders. delivering a broad range of services designed to help customers
Finally, Sian Fletcher has also joined the Birmingham‐based reduce costs and increase productivity.
subsidiary as finance manager, a position that was previously Tim Paddison, Hoffmann Group UK MD, comments: “Our
based in Germany, as part of Hoffmann Group’s continued first year of operating in the UK has been, considering how
commitment to the UK market. challenging the past few months have been for the industry, an
extremely successful one. We have grown rapidly, and even
Investment and reorganisation implemented a complete reorganisation of how we operate in
Investment has also been made across other areas of the order to provide a better service for our customers during
company, with the business having increased the size of its these unprecedented times. As a result of this, we are now in a
vehicle fleet in order to assist site service co‐ordinators in fantastic place to push on and support manufacturers through
fulfilling additional services and tool vending contracts. whatever challenges the coming months may bring. As we
Furthermore, lower mileage company vehicle users have all move into 2021, our goal is to build upon the strong founda‐
switched to plug‐in hybrid electric vehicles, improving the busi‐ tions we have laid in place and strive for bigger and better goals
nesses’ carbon footprint by enabling all of them to commute to for the business over the coming months – watch this space!”
and from the office using purely the electric engines.
Hoffmann Group UK’s business reorganisation was imple‐ www.hoffman-group.com

78 torque-expo.com
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