Torque Magazine issue 106 – July-August 2026

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Publisher

Jerry Ramsdale jerry@torque-expo.com

Editor Jonathon Harker jonathon@torque-expo.com

Deputy Editor

Simon Yuen simon@torque-expo.com

Sales Manager – UK

Claire Warman claire@torque-expo.co.uk

Sales Manager – International

Harry Whyte harry.whyte@torque-expo.com

UK Sales Manager – Tools

Lloyd Ramsdale lloyd@torque-expo.com

Circulation

Tracy Howell tracy@torque-expo.com

Head of Production

Luke Wikner production@torque-expo.com

Designers

Dan Bennett

Victoria Arellano

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Disclaimer

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

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

12 WOMEN IN FASTENERS > REBECCA FORTESCUE-HALLIWELL, GALLEON FIXINGS

14 COVER PROFILE > APEX STAINLESS FASTENERS CELEBRATES 35 YEARS OF MAKING LASTING INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS

18 FOCUS > OILS, SPRAYS & LUBRICANTS

20 SPOTLIGHT > NORD-LOCK ON REDUCING ITS SCOPE 1 EMISSIONS

22 TORQUE-EXPO AWARD WINNER INTERVIEW > GARY MACAULEY, MARTYN PRICE

24 FOCUS > WAREHOUSE & INDUSTRIAL STORAGE

28 SHOW PREVIEW > INNOTRANS 2026

32 BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION > TIMBER ENGINEERING

38 TERRITORY FOCUS > 26 PAGES FOCUSED ON THE CRUCIAL ASIA/PACIFIC REGION

64 WEBINAR RECAP > USING AI TO HELP MAKE BUSINESS DECISIONS

66 TECHNICAL OPINION > EJOT ON THE CHALLENGES OF ASSEMBLY WITH STAINLESS STEEL FASTENERS

68 MILESTONES > JCP CELEBRATES 25 YEARS

72 SHOW PREVIEW > INTERNATIONAL FASTENER EXPO 2026

74 TECHNICAL OPINION > NORM FASTENERS ON VIBRATIONINDUCED SELF-LOOSENING

76 SHOW PREVIEW > EUROBLECH 2026

81 DIRECTORY > YOUR GUIDE TO DISTRIBUTORS, SUPPLIERS & MANUFACTURERS IN THE INDUSTRY

jonathon@torque-expo.com 04 NEWS

CARS DOWN, PLANES UP?

There were a few news stories crossing the desk of Torque Magazine recently that seemed to tell a story of the current direction of the market.

First up, there was the news that SFS has acquired Heartland Precision Fasteners, a US fastening company that serves the aerospace sector. Within a day or two, the news landed that Bulten was divesting two of its automotive manufacturing divisions. Its Tianjin-based contract manufacturing operation was being sold to a local investor group. And, on a larger scale, Bulten also revealed its European automotive contract manufacturing operations were being divested (with a few notable exceptions including its FSP automotive business in the UK).

On the face of it, these stories appear to be a straightforward illustration of current trading for those two sectors. Automotive is famously challenging at the moment. On the flip side of that coin, the defence and aerospace markets are very much in demand, for reasons you will be aware of. That is probably an overly simplistic take on the state of those two industries, but some of the detail in the stories was also interesting. Bulten’s divestments were, it said, part of its broader transformation toward less capital-intensive business, so it can focus on “a higher share of value-added activities”. There was a telling line that played into our reading of the news – diversity of sectors is a strength right now. Bulten said: “Building on the capabilities developed through our long industrial heritage, including quality, precision, reliability and the ability to meet complex customer requirements, we will apply these strengths across a broader set of sectors and applications.” To subscribe to Torque Magazine visit: torque-expo.com/subscribe/ or scan this QR code... As part of our commitment to the environment, Torque Magazine is fully recyclable.

Jonathon Harker Editor

80-year old Anochrome Group acquired in MBO

Private equity firm Endless LLP has backed the management buyout of Anochrome Group, a UK­headquartered surface finishing and coatings specialist.

Following the transaction, the business will continue to be led by its existing senior management team, headed by Mark Jones (pictured left, with Endless MD David Isaacs), Group Chief Executive of Anochrome. Other members of the management team, including Group Commercial & Divisional Director Steve Norman, Group Thread Locking, Sealing & Purchasing Director Kev Walton, and European Divisional Director Pawel Jagustyn, will continue to oversee the companies within the Anochrome Group. Those include Anochrome Limited, Inlex Locking, Wolver­

Bufab picks up profitable niche operator DC Iron

Bufab has agreed to acquire 100% of the shares in D.C. Handrails and Ironwork Parts Limited (DC Iron), a UK based distributor of iron work parts with net sales of £14.8 million in 2025 and operating profit margin significant above Bufab’s profitability target. The acquisition is in line with Bufab’s strategy of acquiring profitable companies in attractive niches within C­parts and technical components.

DC Iron is a distributor of wrought iron components, key clamps, handrailing and fencing for fabricators, engineering companies, and building contractors across the UK. The company has a broad product range, low customer concentration with end customers

hampton Electro Plating, Anocote CR, Anocote PL and Anotec, which recently launched SurTec 650 for the defence and aerospace sectors.

Owner Rob Gray will depart the company following the transaction.

Headquartered in Wolverhampton, Anochrome has been trading for more than 80 years, focused on high­quality surface coatings, corrosion protection and thread­locking sealant services to a diverse customer base across a range of sectors. The company operates from sites in the UK, Poland and the Czech Republic.

www.anochrome.com

in segments such as infrastructure, public indoor and safety. DC Iron has in recent years achieved excellent growth and profit. The company is based in Newcastle upon Tyne and has 40 employees. The seller is DC Iron´s founder Dave Collins, his wife Sandra Collins and son, Scott Collins, who will remain as Managing Director.

The acquisition agreement was signed in early July, and the acquisition is expected to be completed during the same month. DC Iron will be reported within Bufab’s region UK & Ireland and is expected to have a marginal but positive impact on Bufab’s earnings per share during 2026.

www.bufab.com

PROCUREMENT REQUIRES RELIABLE PARTNERS.

Lederer supports industrial companies worldwide in the ecient procurement of stainless steel fasteners and 昀xing solutions. With clearly structured processes, high delivery reliability and a global presence, we sustainably relieve procurement teams –PROCESSRELIABLE, SCALABLE, INTERNATIONAL. IF CONNECTION MATTERS.

ACCU APPOINTS DAN JACK AS CEO

Accu has named Dan Jack as CEO. In his new role, Jack will oversee Accu’s operational, commercial and financial performance. He will also focus on accelerating the company’s global expansion, with plans to grow Accu’s presence in the US, mainland Europe and Australasia. A key priority will be building partnerships with component manufacturers worldwide to further expand Accu’s catalogue of more than 500,000 components, supported by rapid delivery.

Jack succeeds Co­founder and outgoing CEO Martin Ackroyd, who will move into the newly created role of Chief Digital Officer while remaining on the Board of Directors. www.accu.co.uk

ARROW TOOL GROUP APPOINTS VP OF PRODUCT MANAGEMENT

Arrow Tool Group has appointed Chee Min Hong as Vice President of Product Management, eCommerce & Brand Marketing. In this role, Hong will lead the company’s product management, eCommerce and brand marketing strategy, helping to drive innovation, strengthen Arrow’s portfolio of trusted tool brands and accelerate long­term growth.

Lederer GmbH Katzbachstraße 4 | D-58256 Ennepetal www.lederer-online.com

Moreover, Hong will work across the company and with GreatStar’s global product development teams to advance Arrow Tool Group’s innovation roadmap, strengthen brand leadership and bring further consumer­focused products to market.

www.arrowtoolgroup.com

MECAVIT’S GIUSEPPE VERDOLIVA RETIRES

MECAVIT’s Sales Manager Giuseppe Verdoliva has announced his retirement.

In a letter to the company’s customers, Verdoliva said he will remain in the position throughout the transition period to ensure a smooth handover.

Regarding his successor, from 4 May, Alessandro Manini assumed leadership at the company, bringing more than 20 years of experience in the fasteners industry gained at leading international companies.

“I have full confidence in his pro­

fessional capabilities, and I am certain that he will continue to strengthen the relationship we have built over the years with the same dedication and attention to your needs,” said Verdoliva, who also thanked the company’s team in the letter.

www.mecavit.it

GLOBAL NEWS ROUND-UP

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

FTI ANNOUNCES FASTENER TRAINING WEEK IN LOS ANGELES >

Fastener Training Week in Los Angeles will include five days of education across August, November and December. Day 1 (12 August) covers fastener specifications and terminology, followed by understanding the bolted joint on Day 2 (13 August). Training resumes on 11 November with dimensional and material specifications, while Day 4 (12 November) focuses on plating and coating, print comprehension, fastener quality, and an introduction to fastener failures. The programme concludes on 10 December with fastener manufacturing plant tours.

NORTH AMERICA 02

SFS ACQUIRES US AEROSPACE FASTENER MANUFACTURER >

The SFS Group has acquired Heartland Precision Fasteners, a US fastening company serving the aerospace sector. With this acquisition, SFS enters the North American aerospace market, combining its existing expertise in aerospace fastening technology with Heartland Precision Fasteners’ knowhow and customer relationships. Moreover, the acquisition offers opportunities to develop a global manufacturing platform for the aerospace sector in line with SFS’s localfor­local strategy.

UNITED KINGDOM 04

UNITED KINGDOM – 03

SCREWFIX COMMITS TO LOWEST PRICES WITH PRICE PROMISE >

Screwfix has launched a price guarantee programme aimed at offering products at the lowest price on the market. Price Promise enables customers who find an identical product at a lower price from a qualifying retailer within seven days of purchasing it from Screwfix to make a Price Promise claim and receive a refund for the difference. Additionally, if customers present proof of the lower price when visiting a Screwfix store before making a purchase, Screwfix will match the price at the point of purchase.

UK GOVT TIGHTENS STEEL IMPORT RULES TO PROTECT DOMESTIC INDUSTRY >

The UK government’s new steel trade measure has come into effect, limiting tarifffree steel imports to protect domestic steelmaking. From 1 July, the UK government is limiting tariff­free steel imports, reducing overall quota volumes by 51% compared with the previous steel safeguard measure. Any imports above these quotas will be subject to a 50% tariff. The measure applies to imports of steel products that can be manufactured in the UK. The new measure replaces the previous safeguard duty, which expired on 30 June 2026.

EUROPE 05

FASTENER FAIR SPOTLIGHT TO LAUNCH IN PRAGUE, IN 2027 >

The inaugural edition of Fastener Fair Spotlight –Prague, will take place on 26–27 April 2028 at PVA EXPO Prague, Czech Republic, serving as a gateway to the fastener and fixing markets of Central and Eastern Europe. Pitched as a roaming, market­led event platform, Fastener Fair Spotlight is designed to connect the fastener and fixing industry where growth is happening.

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

ASIA 07

NORD-LOCK JOINS JAPANESE SOCIETY OF STEEL CONSTRUCTION >

Nord­Lock Group has become a member of the Japanese Society of Steel Construction (JSSC). The company stated that membership in the JSSC is the latest recognition of Nord­Lock’s suitability for construction projects in Japan. Since 2019, NordLock washers have been certified by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s New Technology Information System (NETIS), a certification granted to construction technologies after they have passed rigorous testing for quality and reliability.

EUROPE 06

Q2 CBAM CERTIFICATE PRICE DROPS

>

The European Commission has announced the Q2 price of CBAM certificates, which has marginally fallen to €75.28 compared with Q1 (€75.36). The Q3 price of CBAM certificates will be announced on 5 October 2026. Each quarterly price in 2026 will be calculated by the Commission during the first calendar week following the end of the relevant quarter. The calculation is based on publicly available information relating to EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) auctions.

ASIA 08

TRA RECOMMENDS EXTENDING ANTI-DUMPING MEASURES ON CHINESE WIRE ROD >

The UK’s Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has proposed extending anti­dumping measures on imports of wire rod from China. In a statement, the TRA recommended that the current anti­dumping duties on imports of wire rod from China remain unchanged for a further five years, following assessments that dumping would be likely to recur and that injury to UK industry would also be likely to recur. The residual duty of 24% will remain in place for Chinese exporters not subject to individual rates, while the rate for the Valin Group will remain at 7.9%.

INTERVIEW WOMEN IN FASTENERS

REBECCA FORTESCUE-HALLIWELL MARKETING DIRECTOR, GALLEON FIXINGS

With almost two decades experience in the industry, Rebecca Fortescue-Halliwell has seen evolution in the market, in roles and also in terms of representation. Here the Galleon Fixings Marketing Director talks about the role of marketing in the fastener industry, highlighting how digital transformation, strategic thinking and strong customer relationships are reshaping the sector…

How did you get into the fastener industry?

I joined the industry 19 years ago and quickly discovered a sector I genuinely love. What began as a tentative career move turned into a long­term passion, built on strong relationships, continuous learning and the opportunity to make a real commercial impact.

What does your day-to-day job involve?

I oversee the full marketing function for Galleon Fixings, spanning both the Harrison & Clough (H&C) and ForgeFix divisions. The role combines strategic leadership

with hands­on execution, and no two days are the same.

I’m lucky to work with a brilliant team, and together we manage everything from long­term planning and brand alignment to campaign delivery, product launches and performance analysis. I work closely with suppliers and customers on joint initiatives while also ensuring our messaging is consistent and commercially effective across multiple sectors. Creativity is a key part of the role, involving developing campaigns, shaping content and working closely with sales, leadership and operational teams to drive measurable results.

As a Marketing Director in the fastener industry, what are the main challenges?

One of the core challenges is differentiation in a highly technical, price­driven market. Fasteners are often perceived as commodities, so marketing must clearly communicate value beyond cost – whether that’s engineering expertise, compliance standards, reliability or partnership capability.

Another challenge is serving diverse sectors such as construction, automotive, rail, renewable energy and manufacturing. Each has different requirements and buying cycles, so we must tailor our messaging carefully while maintaining brand consistency.

How has your role evolved in response to market volatility and changing customer demands?

In recent years, my role has become far more strategic and cross­functional. Supply chain disruption, fluctuating raw material costs and extended lead times have required close collaboration with procurement, operations and sales to ensure transparent, timely communication that builds customer trust.

At the same time, customer expectations have shifted significantly. Buyers now expect fast digital access to product data, compliance documentation and stock visibility. This has led me to drive digital transformation initiatives, including website and portal upgrades, marketing automation and improved product information management. Marketing is no longer just promotional – it plays a central role in resilience, customer confidence and data­driven decision­making.

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

Across the industry, digitalisation and data­led decisionmaking have accelerated, alongside a stronger focus on supply chain resilience and transparency. Customer expectations around speed, information and service have risen considerably.

Within the business, growth and alignment have been significant. The expansion of H&C created new opportunities for collaboration and consistency, highlighting the importance of a unified marketing strategy. Since stepping into the Galleon Fixings Marketing Director role, I’ve seen continued investment in digital capability, customer communication and brand development. Marketing has evolved into a key driver of innovation and strategic direction.

Overall, the journey since 2022 has been one of growth, adaptation and elevating our standards – both in how we operate internally and how we present ourselves to the market.

Can you share some career highlights?

A major highlight has been leading campaigns that challenged traditional product­led marketing within the fastener sector. Bringing fresh creativity into an industrial environment has been both demanding and rewarding.

Collaborating with major consumer brands such as Greggs has helped reposition our brand as bold and modern, extending our reach beyond a typical B2B audience. More recently, partnering with Prostate Cancer UK has been particularly meaningful, using our platform to raise awareness of an important cause and unite customers behind something bigger than day­to­day business. These milestones reflect a broader shift towards innovation and purpose­driven marketing.

What is your favourite thing about the fastener industry? Without question, it’s the people. Despite the technical complex­

// Businesses must actively invest in development, mentorship and inclusive cultures. Our parent company, Dormole, has taken positive steps to support women’s progression, and being part of the company’s Empowering Women Steering Committee has reinforced how powerful intentional support can be //

ity of the products and supply chains, the industry is built on trust, collaboration and long­term relationships. There’s a strong sense of community, loyalty and mutual respect.

The mix of practical, knowledgeable and passionate individuals – many with decades of experience – creates an environment where partnerships truly matter. That human element makes the industry both productive and genuinely enjoyable to work in.

What needs to be done to encourage more women into the industry?

Visibility and representation are essential. When women see others succeeding in leadership, technical and commercial roles, it challenges outdated perceptions of the sector.

Businesses must actively invest in development, mentorship and inclusive cultures. Our parent company, Dormole, has taken positive steps to support women’s progression, and being part of the company’s Empowering Women Steering Committee has reinforced how powerful intentional support can be. Encouraging more women into the industry is about fostering a culture of opportunity and confidence.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don’t be afraid to question established ways of doing things. Innovation often comes from fresh thinking.

I would also say yes to opportunities, even when they feel daunting. Every experience builds confidence and capability. Most importantly, trust that you belong – curiosity, hard work and openness to learning are what truly matter.

Any final thoughts?

The fastener industry is in a period of transformation – digitally, strategically and culturally. Innovation is accelerating, and diversity is becoming increasingly recognised as a strength. More women are stepping into influential roles, shaping strategy and leading change. If we continue to champion inclusion, invest in talent and embrace innovation, the industry will not only grow stronger but also become more resilient, progressive and representative of the world it serves.

www.galleonfixings.com

COVER PROFILE

MAKING CONNECTIONS THAT LAST:

35 Years of Apex Stainless Fasteners

The dust is settling on recent investments for Apex Stainless Fasteners and, at 35 years of age, the business is set on continuing to transform with its bedrock principles of stock, availability, reliability, relationships and people at the core. Torque Magazine sat with MD Steve Forbes and the rest of the Apex executive team to discuss the past, the present trends and what’s around the corner…

Apex Stainless Fasteners has had a big period of investment and transformation in recent months... can you give us an overview?

Steve Forbes, Managing Director: There’s been a lot of change over the last few years and that’s an understatement, everything from locations to systems and the Managing Director. All of it is moving us in the right direction, taking us from a small group of warehousing operations to a proper service centre. We’ve been leveraging technology to improve and last us into the next 35 years.

Apex is also reaping the benefit of being part of a bigger group. BUFAB is a very well­established public company with a great reputation across the world in the c­parts marketplace. Apex fits very nicely into BUFAB as a wholesale stockist focused on stainless.

With all the changes, what we really leverage is the people. We have people who’ve been here for the full 35 years, or 20 years… the connections and relationships those people have in the industries is really important.

When we talk about technology, AI comes up and there’s obviously a fear it will take some jobs. But in this organisation, AI is more of an enabler – it gives our people more time to focus on customers, colleagues and relationships. That is the way that we have worked, and I don’t think we should ever lose that.

In terms of the changes, are they largely complete and operational?

Steve Forbes: Yes, we tried a few things, and some of them didn’t go how we wanted, but we’re agile and turned the clock back where we needed to. We’ve got some areas to iron out, but our error rate is under 3%, our pick is getting better and the team working with customers think we’re about there now. When you’re consolidating from different locations, in a longstanding business, and with the scale of the operation, we’ve had a lot of changes. We found some products I think we probably had in the warehouse for 35 years!

You’ve said previously that the process of transformation will continue. Is that driven by the customers, or developments in the market, or is it something you’re pushing internally... or is it a combination of all those things?

Steve Forbes: We’re definitely looking at all the ends. I think we’re in a position where our customer mix is changing somewhat and the age of the customers that we’re dealing with is changing. When your demographic changes, it means you have to change how you respond. We are looking at how we go on a digital journey internally; we’ve got to be available in different channels, so that means we have to do some transformation. We have the teams and the plans.

The social media side of things has really developed in the last 10 years...

Jason Lloyd, Head of Marketing: We’re now frequently posting on LinkedIn, which is an appreciation that your position in the market is determined by your share of voice on marketing channels. That’s not just digital channels, it’s also physical events. It’s about creating memorability, and as a market leader in stainless fasteners, we need to be where the industry is. We’ve made a real effort with our customer engagement and content, and there’s much more to come.

“We’ve been around 35 years now. We’re a good, healthy business. We’re reliable, and nowadays reliability is something are really looking for”

APEX STAINLESS FASTENERS

Steve Forbes: We’ve been around 35 years now. We’re a good, healthy business. We’re reliable, and nowadays reliability is something people are really looking for. We get quite a lot of feedback that customers prefer to trade with us because of our stability.

Daniel Rule, Rugby Sales Manager: In my case and other people within the sales department, customers will give you the first chance of getting the order because of the relationship that you built up with them, it’s very important.

INDUSTRY CHANGES

Over the 35 years of Apex’s lifetime, what are some of the biggest changes in the industry? Things like sourcing, the internet and environmental legislation?

Gareth Whiteford, Commercial Director: In the days preinternet, we were using fax. When an email came in, somebody would receive an email, then print it and fax it back… you’d have one computer with the internet for the whole company and would have to book your time slot with it!

Sourcing is another big change. When we first started, our biggest sourcing countries were Italy, Switzerland, France and Belgium. Then it moved to India, then it moved to China and now it’s split between various countries, which has been a huge change.

And then the final one you mentioned was legislation. Historically, there was only anti­dumping duty, but now you have got anti­dumping duty, Russian sanctions, CBAM, PPWR, conflict minerals…

That’s one of the benefits of being in a group. Small companies are struggling because they have to employ someone directly to deal with it. For CBAM, we [in the UK] are a year behind, but all our sister companies have had to endure that this year, so we can learn from them.

And then there’s been Brexit, Covid… there have been a lot of changes, but those are the three main ones.

It’s been a disruptive few years, but looking longer term, has it really been any more disruptive than in past periods, specifically when Apex was starting out on in the early years?

Tony Brown, Longest serving Apex staff member, since company formation: Most companies have to go through recessions, but the one that really was bad was the nickel shortage. You just couldn’t get the stock and the prices rocketed.

35 years ago, we didn’t have the competition that we get now from Europe within the UK. I think the Europeans eventually saw that the UK was a good market to get into and they heavily invested in promoting themselves here. We see European companies as some of our biggest competitors now.

Looking at Apex internally over those years, what have been the big milestones?

Tony Brown: Paul Lower started the company and the profits went straight into the stock levels, which became one of Apex’s biggest assets.

Gareth Whiteford: The purchase of Aerotight in 2000 helped protect stocks, and acquisitions are part of the history of Apex.

COVER PROFILE

Director;

One of the big milestones came when Bufab acquired Apex in 2015. There wasn’t a dramatic change instantly, but it was a gradual and important change, with the support from global teams, the IT infrastructure…

What about the core business principles in the fastener industry? Things like speed, delivery, consistency of business relationships, etc – are they still as important now as they were 35 years ago?

Daniel Clark, Purchasing Manager: Those are constants that are never going to change.

Tony Brown: One of the main things we didn’t look at 35 years ago, probably as we were trying to establish ourselves in the UK, was the export market. We shipped to Ireland quite regularly, but no other European countries. We went to a fastener show in Maastricht, and we set up an export department to build on that.

Gareth Whiteford: I headed up the export department and it rose to around 20% of turnover at one point. But due to geopolitical changes and then Brexit, it fell away. Now we’re looking at revitalising it.

Steve Forbes: We’ve seen a 66% increase on our year­to­year export sales, so we’re encouraged by our prospects for export sales in the future.

Tony Brown: Where I think we’re winning in the export markets, is that we do a lot of imperial sizes, which Europeans still purchase.

Daniel Clark: It goes back to reinforcing just how important the stock levels and our breadth of offering are.

What’s the state of the stainless steel market?

Gareth Whiteford: Since Christmas, we’ve seen sourcing cost

increases of around 30%, due to new reduced Indonesian Nickel quotas, along with other increases such as molybdenum. People want greener material too, so factories are investing in lowering their carbon output thanks. We’re doing well, but it’s a struggle to pass those increases on. Then CBAM on stainless is anywhere to 20­30% on top of that next year, after the raw material increase. But we are fairly happy with how things are going for us.

Which is no mean feat against that backdrop. Do you think the customer base is aware of things like CBAM?

Steve Forbes: My view is, if you’re the biggest in the market, you have a responsibility to help the market keep informed and we should lead that way. So, over the next six months, there will be a lot of communication from us about what CBAM is, what it means, how it works and what we’re doing. I think it’s important that people understand it’s not a margin improvement tool, it is a genuine cost into the organisation.

THE FUTURE

What else has Apex been working on, and has coming up over the next five years or so?

Steve Forbes: We’ve got some great things in the pipeline, some we can’t talk about, but at the end of last year we put six apprentices into the organisation, of which Nathan is one…

Nathan Jones, IT & Business Intelligence Executive: We’ve gone from having 1­2 apprentices at any time to having 6 in the company now. That’s the most I’ve seen in my 13 years here.

Gareth Whiteford: Apprenticeships have been successful historically for Apex, with management coming from people who started here at a very young age.

Steve Forbes: The reason I put apprenticeships back in answers your question – what about the next five years? We’re going to need some fresh eyes and different perspectives for

APEX STAINLESS FASTENERS

this organisation’s future. Three are doing a data apprenticeship, and three are doing an AI apprenticeship. We didn’t go for any of the traditional apprenticeships, we wanted something that will help take the business into the future. Then there’s the work that Jason and his team are doing around digitisation of the business and how we communicate. Historically, I think Apex has been a very traditional company when it comes communicating with its customer base. Maybe there’s been a bit of an assumption that everybody knew who we were. But in this day, you can’t do that. You’ve got to be front of mind when people want to buy, and when they’re purchasing. We have some really good plans around taking ourselves forward; to help digitise selling, having the platform to grow in the export market on a digital platform… using AI to free up time. Once again, it’s not about AI being a replacement for people – I think that’s a folly. It’s using AI to speed up the things that usually take us a lot of time, to give us more time to communicate directly with our customers, which is where the magic happens.

Circling back to that topic about apprenticeships, there’s a bit of industry anxiety about attracting new blood and retaining them.

Steve Forbes: The fastener industry is not necessarily attractive, but we have managed to land a couple of cracking young people…

Daniel Rule: We’ve got a really keen 17­year­old who’s doing an apprenticeship. He loves what he is doing and is already talking about what can he can do next. We’re investing in him, so he’s invested in us.

Geoff Young: We’ve got another new starter keen to learn and he has good people skills. He’s training on the actual nuts and bolts of it, working in the warehouse… I think that’s where you gain the product knowledge.

Steve Forbes: There’s a bit of a misconception that young kids nowadays don’t want to work and that’s just not true, I think. We’ve got a dozen young people here, and as long as you engage with them and they feel like they are engaged with the business, and you embed them in the business properly, you get that investment back in spades.

Nathan Jones: The staff are really happy, there’s a real buzz around the buildings. When you walk in like a lot of people look very happy in it.

THE APEX STAINLESS FASTENERS EXEC TEAM

Steve Forbes – MD

Gareth Whiteford – Commercial Director

Edward Wilson – Finance Director

Geoff Young – Head of Operations

Jason Lloyd – Head of Marketing

Daniel Rule – Rugby Sales Manager

Julie Callaghan – Leeds Sales Manager

Mark Howell – Wednesbury Sales Manager

Daniel Clark – Purchasing Manager

Supported by:

Tony Brown, Longest serving Apex staff member, since company formation

Nathan Jones, IT & Business Intelligence Executive

Jason Lloyd: There’s been a lot of improvement in how we communicate to customers, how management communicate with staff and we have seen a dramatic change in staff morale and customer satisfaction as a result.

Daniel Rule: There’s a new positive energy about the place that I’ve not seen in 20 years.

Jason Lloyd: Apex is 35 years old and it’s a good time to reflect, but I think everyone around this table can agree that it feels like we’re in the strongest position we’ve ever been as a business, and that’s exciting. There is so much potential with the right team, the right stock, the right facilities and right technology that we’re developing. It feels like we’re at an important moment when we’re going to see real growth and continued change. That’s credit to Steve and a focused plan that we can all get behind. I think we’re all very, very excited for the future.

“We have people who’ve been here for the full 35 years, or 20 years… the connections and relationships those people have in the industries is really important”

Steve Forbes: Coming into a long­standing organisation can be difficult. But it’s a great group of people and has been a privilege. Every time people come and visit, they leave with the comment about the nice atmosphere. When you combine that with a good business working towards exciting growth plans, it’s great position.

www.apexstainless.com

OILS, SPRAYS AND LUBRICANTS

SUSTAINABLE LUBRICATION

Klüber Lubrication is advancing its sustainability strategy through the launch of mass-balanced lubricants…

Klüber Lubrication has launched environmentally friendly lubricants using mass­balanced renewable raw materials.

With this initiative, Klüber Lubrication offers lubricants based on mass­balanced raw materials for industrial use. The biomass balance approach is a method in which fossil­based raw materials are systematically replaced with certified renewable alternatives at the beginning of the production process. This significantly improves the product’s climate impact while maintaining the same application performance.

The first product launch focuses on the Klübersynth GH 6 gear oil series, covering the most commonly used viscosities. Klübersynth GH 6 is a synthetic highperformance gear and high­temperature oil based on polyglycol that meets the growing requirements and increasing power density of modern gear systems.

The new product is identifiable by the suffix MB, which denotes the massbalanced version. From a chemical and performance perspective, Klübersynth GH

6 MB corresponds to Klübersynth GH 6, which is approved by Flender, Siemens, Siemens Geared Motors, SEW Eurodrive, Getriebebau Nord, Stöber Antriebstechnik, Lenze, ZAE Antriebssysteme, Cavex, Bonfiglioli, Rossi Motoriduttori, Motovario, Moventas, Boston Gear, Baldor and Yilmaz Redüktör.

“By integrating mass­balanced renewable raw materials into our lubricants, we not only reduce our own carbon footprint but also enable our customers to meet their sustainability targets without having to make any changes in handling or performance,” says Jun Harasaki, Head of Product Portfolio Management at Klüber Lubrication.

At the same time, Klüber Lubrication is fully implementing the REDcert system at its production site in Belgium. The system is used to evaluate and document the use of sustainable raw materials, verify the share of renewable raw materials used in production and ensure full traceability throughout the supply chain.

“Our aim is to continuously reduce the environmental footprint of our products –

not someday in the future but starting now,” says Harasaki. “For our customers, this means access to lubricants that are not only environmentally responsible but also independently verified for sustainability. This is a clear advantage when it comes to internal sustainability reporting and communication with stakeholders.”

In addition to implementing the REDcert system, Klüber Lubrication has once again been awarded the EcoVadis Gold Medal, recognising the top 5% of companies assessed by EcoVadis during the 12 months preceding the award.

With a score of 85 points, the highest the company has ever achieved, this marks the fifth consecutive year that the specialty lubricants manufacturer has received a Gold rating.

In a statement, the company cited EcoVadis, which said that the Gold rating “reflects the quality of the company’s sustainability management system and demonstrates a commitment to promoting transparency throughout the value chain”.

The EcoVadis methodology evaluates management systems across four themes:

Klüber Lubrication received the EcoVadis Gold rating for the fifth consecutive year

Environment, Labour and Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement. The assessment is based on documented policies, actions and results, and takes into account a company’s sector, size and geographical location. Klüber Lubrication achieved scores of 80 points or more out of a possible 100 in all four themes for the first time.

“We are very happy about this renewed recognition,” says Markus Hermann, Sustainability Manager of the Klüber Lubrication Group. “The feedback we receive clearly shows how motivating a Gold Medal is for our teams worldwide, who are working to reduce our footprint and increase the positive impact of our products and services to support our customers on their sustainability journey.”

Lastly, Klüber Lubrication and OKS Spezialschmierstoffe are joining forces under the umbrella of Freudenberg Chemical Specialities (FCS), a subsidiary of the Freudenberg Group.

Following the integration, both companies will continue to operate independently within their established focus

Klüber Lubrication’s Wolfgang Sammer and OKS CEO Diana Stirner will continue to lead their respective businesses following the integration

will further strengthen its position as an OEM partner across numerous industries while expanding its engineering expertise and global presence. OKS, in turn, will reinforce its position in the Maintenance, Repair and Operations

(MRO) market, broaden its international distribution network and further strengthen its research and development capabilities through the integration.

www.klueber.com

REDUCED FUEL-RELATED EMISSIONS

Nord-Lock Group’s Scope 1 emissions have reduced by 99.9% thanks to the adoption of biopropane…

Nord­Lock has transitioned to biopropane, a renewable fuel produced from feedstocks, at its production facility in Mattmar, Sweden, reducing the site’s Scope 1 emissions by 99.9%.

According to the company, this has significantly lowered its CO₂e emissions from 190 tonnes per year to just 0.26 tonnes. This transition forms part of the climate ambitions that all companies within the Nord­Lock Group have committed to through the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), which helps businesses set climate goals aligned with what science shows is necessary to limit global warming. As part of these commitments, Nord­Lock aims to reduce absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 58.8% by 2034 and achieve net­zero emissions by 2050.

The switch to biopropane is therefore a concrete and measurable contribution to these long­term goals. The company added that, as biopropane offers the same performance and reliability as previously used fuel sources but with a dramatically lower carbon footprint, Nord­Lock can maintain the same high quality and operational stability that customers depend on while signif­

Nord-Lock Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050

icantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

“The transition to biopropane is a significant step in lowering our carbon footprint and a key milestone in reaching our sustainability goals,” says Graham Souter, Vice President BU Nord­Lock. “We are constantly seeking solutions that cut emissions while maintaining product performance. Achieving a 99.9% reduction in our factory’s Scope 1 emissions without impacting production is an excellent example of this approach.”

In addition to adopting biopropane, the facility is entirely powered by renewable electricity, predominantly hydropower, which further reduces its carbon footprint.

Anna Sjöberg, Nord­Lock Group Quality & Sustainability Manager, adds: “The successful execution of our Mattmar facility's switch to biopropane is strong confirmation that NordLock Group's sustainability roadmap is having a timely, positive impact on reducing emissions from our day­to­day operations, and is delivering clear and meaningful results.”

www.nord-lock.com

TORQUE-EXPO AWARD WINNER INTERVIEW: GARY MACAULEY

Gary Macauley, Martyn Price owner, picked up the coveted Industry Achievement Award at this year’s Torque-Expo Awards earlier this year. With over 25 years at Martyn Price, which has gone from strength-to-strength under his tutelage, Gary is a well-known character in industry circles, with decades of experience in fasteners…

You won the Torque-Expo 2026 Outstanding Industry Achievement award – congratulations! Was it a surprise?

Yes, it was a huge surprise, and I think some of the event photos were a testament to that!

Where are you keeping the award in the office?

I actually decided to take it home; it’s currently sitting in my conservatory and is a nice talking point for visitors.

You’ve worked in the fastener trade for over 40 years – if you knew then what you know now, would you have any advice to give to your younger self?

To trust the process, roll with the punches and keep moving forward.

You’ve been with Martyn Price for over 25 years - if you had to pick out top three highlights, what would they be...?

1. When joining in 2000 we restructured the business operations from a completely manual Kardex system to an IT system. Which is hard to imagine these days.

2. In 2006 we introduced new shareholders to the business, allowing Martyn to retire and giving some new impetus and direction to the business.

3. And of course, completing the management buyout in 2018, becoming owner and returning Martyn Price to being a family­owned company.

BIAFD (the British and Irish Association of Fastener Distributors) seems to have been an important part of your fastener industry career – is that fair to say? What are your thoughts on the organisation and how it has progressed?

Yes, I remember early BIAFD meetings that consisted of about six people including both executive and general membership. It’s continued to grow and helps bring the industry together to face a range of challenges, for that reason alone it’s worth supporting.

Has there been a person or people who’ve made a big contribution to your career and progress?

I’d say all of my old bosses, some good and some bad!

Have you got a favourite moment or two from over the years? (Apart from this award win!)

Professionally, I’d say having the opportunity to travel to the Far East, India and across Europe within the role, which has brought very fond memories. More personally, involving my family, bringing my (less than impressed) sons in during the holidays to pack kits. Along with bringing Carly (my stepdaughter) at 16 to bring your children to work day and 26 years later that career still going strong, now as Sales Director at Martyn Price.

What about a piece of advice to the next generation of fastener executives?

I’ll try and keep it serious! I’d encourage those starting out in the industry to try a wide range of roles. The appreciation for different aspects such as sales, warehouse operation and logistics not only adds variety, but a breadth of knowledge which is useful when it comes to management roles.

www.martynprice.co.uk

WAREHOUSE AND INDUSTRIAL STORAGE

Transitioning to automated vertical lifts has transformed DK Jones’ logisitics strategy

SCALING WITHOUT MOVING

Expand your premises or move… or boost the efficiency of the space you already have instead? DK Jones Manufacturing chose the latter and enlisted Compact Lift vertical storage for the task…

DK Jones Ltd recently initiated a major facility refurbishment and expansion programme. During the process, the operations team faced a classic industrial bottleneck: how to dramatically increase storage capacity for heavy, mixed­size components without expanding the building footprint or incurring the costs of relocating to a new site.

Traditional floor­based racking was no longer viable. It limited operational space and risked slowing down day­to­day warehouse workflows.

The solution was delivered by Randex, the UK partner for Compact Lift automated storage systems, manufactured in Sweden by Weland Solutions.

Each vertical lift module occupies a footprint of approximately nine m². The system is built around a robust rack­andpinion drive concept, ensuring stable tray movement and precise positioning even when handling heavy or unevenly distributed loads.

90 tonnes stored in one-tenth of the space

By transitioning from conventional floor storage to automated vertical lifts, DK Jones Ltd has transformed its logistics strategy. The reduced footprint means the new vertical storage

system uses approximately one­tenth of the floor space previously required. Now there’s high storage capacity – the four units together store around 90 tonnes of material safely and efficiently. And workflow has improved – heavy components are delivered directly to operators at an ergonomic working height, improving safety and freeing up valuable floor space.

“The machines have been an absolute game changer for us – efficient, reliable, and invaluable in helping us store more materials while freeing up space,” says Chris Jones, Managing Director of DK Jones Limited. “We could not recommend them highly enough.”

The installation demonstrates how vertical power can transform warehouse capacity without increasing building size. For industrial operations facing similar space or capacity limitations, automated vertical storage offers a scalable way to unlock warehouse potential without expanding the existing facility footprint.

Readers can explore how vertical lift technology could increase storage capacity and free up space within their existing facility by contacting the Randex team to arrange a practical layout and load­profile review.

randex.com/contact

Workflow has improved and now heavy components are delivered to operators at ergonomic working height

VICTORY FASTENERS INVESTS IN NEW FORKLIFT TRUCKS

Victory Fasteners has recently taken delivery of two new forklift trucks as part of its ongoing investment in the business.

The new vehicles will support warehouse and logistics operations at Victory’s West Midlands facility, helping to improve efficiency, stock handling and the movement of goods throughout the site.

This latest investment reflects Victory Fasteners’ continued commitment to developing its facilities, equipment and team as the company grows its presence across the UK and continues to expand into international markets.

Alongside investment in machinery, technology, and operational infrastructure, Victory Fasteners remains focused on building the capacity and capabilities required to support customers both at home and overseas. Every investment is made with the aim of maintaining the high levels of service, responsiveness, and reliability that customers expect.

The addition of these new forklift trucks is another practical investment that supports the company’s long­term growth and ongoing commitment to operational excellence. www.victoryfasteners.com

TORQUE FOCUS

WAREHOUSE AND INDUSTRIAL

STORAGE

AUDITING WAREHOUSE TRUCKS

Operating a fleet of warehouse or industrial trucks? These hard working vehicles impact workflow when they fail, and regular inspections help keep operations smooth. Wosatec has a traceable inspection software solution to help…

Industrial trucks are an integral part of daily operations in warehouses, production facilities and logistics centres, and safe operation requires regular inspections and traceable documentation.

These vehicles move materials and ensure smooth operational workflows, so there’s a straightforward goal for those responsible: equipment must be checked regularly and the results must be available in a traceable format.

To bring more structure to recurring inspections, wosatec GmbH is expanding its license portfolio to include a new inspection category for industrial trucks. With this inspection license, companies, public institutions and inspection service providers can digitally record inspections, carry them out via a guided process and provide legally compliant proof.

The license is particularly relevant for managers responsible for overseeing large fleets, coordinating inspection schedules and maintaining centralised access to records.

Regular inspection of warehouse trucks helps keep these work horses operating

Daily operations often involve managing a multitude of individual data points that must be reliably consolidated – and this is precisely where the new inspection license comes in. It supports recurring inspections in compliance with the German Ordinance on Industrial Safety and Health (BetrSichV), DGUV Regulation 68, and other relevant technical standards, including recommendations based on FEM 4.004.

The new inspection license covers various types of industrial trucks, including (among others) manual and electric pedestrian­operated trucks, trucks with standing or seated operator positions, as well as automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). This enables companies to manage and document a wide range of vehicle types within a unified digital inspection environment.

“Industrial trucks are among the most frequently used pieces of equipment in many companies,” explains Thomas Gottweis, Managing Director of wosatec GmbH. “It is therefore crucial to organise recurring inspections efficiently and document them comprehensively. With our new inspection license, we help companies implement this process digitally and practically.”

Record inspections where they happen

The wosatec web app guides inspectors step­by­step through the inspection process. Irregularities can be recorded directly on­site, photos can be added and results immediately linked to the specific piece of equipment.

Upon completion, the application automatically generates a PDF inspection report. This ensures that the record is created during the inspection itself and remains available for future analysis. For appropriately marked equipment, identification is handled via QR codes. A single scan is all it takes to call up the relevant industrial truck, view existing data, and prepare for follow­up inspections.

The application runs on PCs, tablets and smartphones and can be used both online and offline.

Organising recurring inspections can quickly become complex, especially for large fleets with many industrial trucks. Inspection schedules, histories and documentation must be managed in a way that ensures they are always up­todate and traceable. Digital recording helps centralise information and reliably organise recurring inspections. Features such as automatic inspection reminders, a photo function, digital signatures and central data storage simplify the management of equipment subject to mandatory inspections during daily operations. Managers can easily keep track of which items have been inspected, what records are available and when the next inspection is due.

www.wosatec.com/de/Flurfoerderzeuge

INNOTRANS ON TRACK TO CELEBRATE 30 YEARS

Held every two years at Messe Berlin showground, InnoTrans has established itself a major meeting point for the rail sector…

Naturally there will be a certain amount of looking back and celebrating its three decades, but Innotrans 2026 promises to avoid getting sidetracked in nostalgia, not least in its conference agenda which will cover hot­button topics like AI (and digitalisation) and sustainable mobility.

The 15th InnoTrans will take place from 22 to 25 September 2026 at the Berlin Exhibition Grounds. The show is building on significant numbers – the 2024 show saw almost 3,000 exhibitors, with over half from overseas. Visitor numbers skewed similarly, with over half (58%) from overseas and a grand total of 169,214 visitors attending the show. This time around, there will be increased numbers from the railway infrastructure and tunnel construction sectors, thanks to the closer integration between the two sectors.

The five segments of InnoTrans comprise Railway Technology, Railway Infrastructure, Public Transport, Interiors and Tunnel Construction.

EU Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas is scheduled to open this year’s show, with Patrick Schnieder, Federal Minister of Transport, also attending the opening event. Industry representatives including Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility, and Škoda CEO Petr Novotny, will discuss “Mobility on a global scale – Shaping projects and growth opportunities” at the opening.

“As the most important meeting place for the transport technology industry, InnoTrans stands out not only for its technical innovations and world premieres, but also for its intensive professional exchange,” says InnoTrans Director Kerstin Schulz: “We are proud to once again welcome countless high­profile speakers and panelists from all segments of the industry this year.”

Rail networking

The Dialogue Forums serve as a platform for different ends of the transport world to meet and discuss challenges and future issues. Policymakers, industry, academia and transportation companies will chew over topics like digitalisation and sustainable transportation to infrastructure, cybersecurity and innovative technologies.

Highlights will include: Resilience in Motion: Navigating the Challenges of Future Mobility

Innotrans also includes the invitation­only Rail Leaders’ Summit, with highlights like a discussion on “Strong infrastructure in Challenging Times. Elsewhere, the implications of AI will be discussed in the Public Transport Forum and International Tunnel Forum.

Another highlight of this year’s InnoTrans is the launch of the European Network of Infrastructure Managers (ENIM) on

Railway station: Innotrans has been a hub for the industry for 3 decades

Wednesday, 23 September 2026. ENIM will bring together high­level representatives from railway infrastructure managers and allocation bodies to address the current challenges in the field of network expansion and maintenance. Roland Leucker, Managing Director of the industry association STUVA, says: “Digitalisation – including the use of artificial intelligence – opens up new possibilities for planning, building and operating tunnels more efficiently and sustainably. It is precisely these topics that are the focus of STUVA’s International Tunnel Forum within the Innotrans Convention, which promotes professional exchange and international networking within the sector.”and international networking within the sector.”

The organisers also operate a clever ‘Innotrans Plus’ through which exhibitors and visitors can arrange appointments ahead of the fair, as well as chat or video calls before the show’s underway.

Following this year’s Innotrans, Messe Berlin will stay busy with Innotrans Asia, debuting next year specifically for the Asian market, running 7­9 September 2027 at the Singapore EXPO grounds.

GÜDE: APPROVED SUPPLIER OF DEUTSCHE BAHN AG

and

For more than seven decades, family­owned Güde GmbH has stood for quality, reliability and continuity in the field of fastening solutions. Since its founding in 1948, Güde has earned international recognition as a trusted manufacturer of spring washers and a broad range of precisionengineered connecting elements.

Looking ahead, the company is once again participating as an exhibitor at InnoTrans 2026 in Berlin (hall 25, booth 170). Its first appearance two years ago was a significant milestone for the company. It says: “Presenting Güde alongside the major players of the industry at the world’s leading trade fair for railway technology was both impressive in scale and a moment of pride for our team. With decades of expertise in the railway sector, we are well prepared to showcase our capabilities and continue strengthening our position within this highly specialised market.”

Since 2010, Güde GmbH has been an approved supplier of Deutsche Bahn AG for sperrkant spring washers (BN 208 012) and sperrkant washers (BN 208 010) – a milestone that marked the beginning of its long­term success in the railway sector. Over the past 16 years, Güde has continuously expanded its expertise, strengthened its partnerships and proven its reliability in countless national and international rail projects. In 2025, the company achieved another important qualification milestone: Güde received the HPQ approval

of Deutsche Bahn for railway superstructure spring washers (e.g. FE6 Iog 30.7000, FE 7 Iotkv 4a, FE15 Iotkv 14 , FE19 Iotk 114), further underscoring its technical competence and commitment to meeting the highest safety and documentation standards in railway infrastructure.

The business added: “Our customers have trusted us for decades, and we continue to support them with a strong portfolio of railway­specific fastening solutions – all manufactured with precision, consistency and deep material expertise. This combination of technical know­how and long­standing industry experience positions us as a reliable partner for both vehicle and infrastructure applications.

“Even as global challenges intensify – including evolving regulatory frameworks such as CBAM – we remain confident in our ability to adapt and continue delivering excellence. Our long­standing commitment to quality, flexibility, rapidity and reliability forms the foundation of our success. These principles are the reason we are able to supply more than 2.7 billion components per year worldwide, and they continue to guide our actions as we navigate an increasingly complex and dynamic market environment.

“Trust in Güde, many others do.”

www.guede.net

Güde’s expertise and partnerships in the railway sector have expanded over the years

ACCESS HARDWARE FOR RAIL SECURITY AND PASSENGER COMFORT

Southco’s positioning hinges and quarter-turn fasteners are among the solutions being showcased at Innotrans 2026

At InnoTrans, Southco’s focuses will include latching solutions that support some of the industry’s key security concerns, including protecting rail carriages and on-board equipment from theft, vandalism and cybersecurity threats...

Engineered access hardware and positioning technology specialist Southco will showcase its latest product innovations at InnoTrans 2026.

In Hall 3.1 | 300, Southco will exhibit its extensive portfolio of mechanical and electromechanical latches, locks, fasteners, hinges and positioning solutions – all designed to enhance safety, security, maintenance efficiency and passenger comfort across a wide range of rolling­stock applications.

Built to withstand demanding rail environments, Southco’s robust, vibration­resistant access hardware helps protect interior and exterior panels from unauthorised access while reducing maintenance requirements. Compression latches provide secure, vibration­free closure with a variety of key and tool­operated latching options, including corrosion­resistant stainless­steel versions. At InnoTrans, Southco will specifically focus on showcasing latching solutions that support some of the industry’s key security concerns, i.e. protecting rail carriages and on­board

equipment from theft, vandalism and cybersecurity threats. Visitors will also discover Southco’s touch point solutions that improve the passenger experience. Southco’s positioning hinges and display mounts enable smooth, reliable movement and support of screens, armrests, headrests and fold­down tables without secondary supports. Intelligent electronic locks secure luggage storage and staff­only areas, while multi­point latching systems help prevent false latching and offer flexible actuation options. Southco’s DZUS® Quarter­Turn Fasteners further simplify maintenance by enabling quick and easy access.

Trusted by leading rolling­stock OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers for decades, Southco combines a broad product portfolio with global manufacturing capabilities and local engineering support to help customers address the evolving challenges of modern rail design.

www.southco.com

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

TIMBER ENGINEERING

ECONOMICAL SOLUTIONS FOR TIMBER PROJECTS

ENGEL’s E-JET® and E-JET® X help reduce installation time while improving connection quality and reliability…

Verbindungselemente ENGEL's E­JET® and E­JET® X are timber construction screws developed for professional users, combining quality, advanced design features and versatile application options.

The E­JET timber construction screw is designed for clean, safe and efficient screw connections in timber construction and interior fit­out applications. Its countersunk head with milling pockets allows flush installation in wood without surface breakout, which is especially beneficial for visible surfaces and precise joints.

The hexalobular drive, used with the included Jetta® bit, creates a practical stick­fit effect that supports stable onehanded driving, even in demanding working conditions. In addition, the reduced­friction shank lowers driving resistance and helps preserve the battery life of cordless tools.

The screw geometry of the E­JET is optimised for fast installation and reduced stress on the material. Its convex spiral thread minimises driving resistance and helps prevent splitting or cracking of the wood, while the cut point improves penetration, speeds up installation and further reduces splitting forces. In many softwood applications, this allows installation without pre­drilling.

The E­JET is available in yellow­ and blue­zinc­plated versions, with partial or full thread, and optionally with a hexalobular or Pozi drive, offering a high level of flexibility. With CE marking and ETA approval, it is suitable for key timber construction applications and so is valued by carpenters and furniture manufacturers.

The E­JET X structural timber screw is a further development of the E­JET and has been specifically designed for structural timber construction and the fastening of over­roof insulation

E-JET and E-JET X deliver faster installation and more reliable

systems. It is intended for higher loads and demanding construction requirements. Particularly notable are its high head pullthrough values and optimised clamping performance, especially in the wafer­head version, which provides maximum stability and secure fixing. Depending on the application, the E­JET X fullthread screw is available with either a countersunk head or a cylindrical head, allowing flush, clean or deep installation.

Its design is focused on performance and installation reliability. A coarse­pitch thread makes drilling easier and reduces splitting and cracking of the wood. The reduced­friction shank significantly lowers the force required during installation. In addition, the cutting edge with a serrated thread improves the initial bite and further reduces splitting forces, often making pre­drilling unnecessary in softwood. In the countersunk head versions, milling ribs ensure a clean and flush finish.

The newer full­thread variants of the E­JET X are especially suitable for modern timber construction. The full­thread screw with a countersunk head enables flush installation and reduces the risk of material cracking, making it ideal for modern timber construction, refurbishment and prefabricated buildings. It can also be a cost­effective alternative to traditional connectors such as metal brackets. The full­thread screw with a cylindrical head offers additional advantages on crack­sensitive timber surfaces due to its smaller head, reduces chipping and can be driven deep into the material.

Both the E­JET and E­JET X help reduce installation time while improving connection quality and reliability. Made from hardened carbon steel and CE marked with ETA approval, they are well suited to professional, standards­compliant applications.

www.engel-verbindet.de

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

BUILDING BETTER FAÇADES

EJOT’s CROSSFIX façade support system combines high load-bearing capacity, thermal efficiency and design flexibility to support modern façade construction…

EJOT CROSSFIX is a façade support system that offers multiple benefits, including high load­bearing capacity and design flexibility. The system has been used on a major new building at the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus. By utilising stainless steel and offering the optional use of a power wrench, the system achieves significantly higher loadbearing capacities. ETA certification confirms that the system can transfer substantially greater loads. Its tested load­bearing values and regulated calculation methods ensure a higher margin of safety for the entire structure.

The CROSSFIX console is highly adaptable, enabling it to form both fixed and sliding points while accommodating horizontal and vertical support profiles, ensuring maximum flexibility during planning and installation. When combined with other system components, it provides standards­compliant fastening on all common substrates, as well as secure connections between the console and support profile. This substructure system combines engineering flexibility and high load­bearing capacity with exceptional thermal performance and maximum fire protection.

Compared with systems using aluminium consoles, CROSSFIX more effectively meets structural and thermal performance requirements. This improved performance can reduce the required insulation thickness, resulting in a smaller overall wall cross­section and increasing the building's usable floor area.

The system also offers the benefits of a reduced carbon foot­

CROSSFIX reduces thermal bridging compared with traditional aluminium

print and improved energy efficiency. CROSSFIX requires significantly less energy during manufacturing than most competing systems. Additional benefits include energy savings during installation, lower heating costs through improved insulation performance and a reduction in the overall amount of insulation material required.

The system also significantly reduces thermal bridging compared with traditional aluminium supports, resulting in improved U­values (thermal transmittance) while maintaining the same insulation thickness. This enhanced performance reduces the overall requirement for insulation material, providing additional environmental benefits. As a result, the system is well suited to projects targeting certifications such as DGNB, LEED and BREEAM.

In terms of application, the EJOT CROSSFIX façade support system enabled Kovara Projects to securely and efficiently install a complex timber cladding feature as part of the construction of a major new building at the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus near Didcot. Kovara Projects served as the building envelope contractor for the project.

The building features a sawtooth roof and an envelope that incorporates a palette of materials, including dark standingseam roofs and external walls combined with naturally finished timber cladding to complement the surrounding landscape and enhance the building's architectural design.

Each unit features a recessed façade at the gable ends,

created by incorporating cantilevered purlins into the roof design. This allows curtain walling to maximise natural light while the overhanging roof helps manage solar gain.

This design required the Thermopine timber cladding used on the exterior walls to continue across the soffit of the roof overhang to achieve the desired appearance. EJOT UK was therefore tasked by Kovara Projects with providing a plug­andplay solution for this distinctive architectural feature, which covers a total of 24 square metres across the eaves of all the recessed façades, using the CROSSFIX system.

“By utilising the CROSSFIX system in conjunction with EJOT’s technical support, the system’s enhanced structural and spanning

The building features a sawtooth roof and a façade combining a range of materials

capabilities were identified and incorporated into the design, enabling a reduction in the quantity of material required for the soffit installation when compared with a traditional bespoke fabricated support framework,” says Architect Scott Brownrigg. Kevin Rackley, Flat Roofing Business Development Manager at EJOT UK, adds: “The versatility offered by CROSSFIX due to the nature of its design means it can solve all kinds of façade fixing challenges without the need to develop bespoke brackets and support profiles. In addition to the cost and time savings this offers, it also provides the assurance of ETA certification to demonstrate its performance capabilities.”

www.ejot.co.uk

STORA RVICE GESE

55 million special and custom screws according to DIN and ISO standards – that‘s over 55 million fast and precise solutions. In all standardized diameters and lengths – even in extra lengths and intermediate sizes. Direct from stock and „just in time“.

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

DESIGNING TIMBER CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

Designed for modern timber construction, fischer’s FiXperience WOOD-FIX module enables engineers and designers to accurately calculate and verify timber fastening applications in accordance with European standards…

The WOOD­FIX module within fischer’s FiXperience Suite, a design software package that enables precise planning, is specifically developed for modern timber construction.

As a free module within the FiXperience software family, WOOD­FIX is designed in accordance with the requirements of the European Technical Assessment (ETA), using Eurocodes 1 and 5 together with the relevant national application documents. The software enables engineers and designers to accurately calculate and verify timber fastening applications while ensuring compliance with European design standards.

The software supports the dimensioning of on­rafter insulation systems and façade insulation fixings, as well as the verification of a wide range of timber connections and reinforcements using fischer PowerFull II fully threaded screws. Users can also determine wind and snow load zones either by entering a postcode or by manually inputting project­specific data, simplifying the design process and improving calculation accuracy.

Moreover, for approval­compliant design of fastenings for timber façade substructures on solid external walls, the FiXperience program suite also includes the FACADE­FIX module.

This module enables the design and planning of fastenings for ventilated rainscreen façades with timber substructures using long­shaft anchors, including all required verifications in accordance with applicable guidelines.

Overall, the FiXperience Suite is available in both online and offline versions, providing a comprehensive range of design and calculation modules for a wide variety of fastening applications.

The software includes dedicated modules for different applications. Aside from WOOD­FIX and FACADE­FIX, the software includes C­FIX for structural anchor design, REBAR­FIX for postinstalled rebar connections, REINFORCE­FIX for structural strengthening solutions for flexure and shear in reinforced concrete beams, CHANNEL­FIX for cast­in channel systems, SOLARPANEL­FIX for photovoltaic mounting systems and RAILFIX for railings on reinforced concrete slabs and staircases. Together, these modules provide a complete digital design platform covering a broad range of construction fastening requirements.

www.fischer.group

TIMBER ENGINEERING

ENGINEERED FOR STRENGTH

HECO's HECO-TOPIX-plus range provides high-performance fastening solutions for timber construction, enabling efficient connections between main and secondary beams…

HECO offers a range of solutions for connecting main and secondary beams, including the HECOTOPIX­plus CombiConnect and other timber construction fasteners.

The HECO­TOPIX­plus CombiConnect is an ETA­certified double­threaded screw specially developed for the transmission of high compressive and tensile loads in timber construction applications. It features two threads with different thread pitches, enabling connected components to be pulled together. Loads are transmitted axially through the threads, allowing significantly higher tensile load capacity than conventional partial­thread screws.

The HECO­TOPIX­plus CombiConnect can be installed quickly without splitting the timber, ensuring easy, userfriendly handling.

The screw is available in diameters of 6.5 mm and 8.5 mm and in lengths ranging from 100 mm to 350 mm. It is certified under ETA­19/0553. A 45° installation angle ensures maximum stability, while the proven HECO­TOPIXplus tip generally eliminates the need for pre­drilling and reduces the risk of wood splitting.

The HECO­TOPIX­plus Flange Head screw is specifically engineered for timber construction applications. Its enlarged head diameter provides a greater clamping surface, enabling it to transfer significantly higher loads while reducing the number of fastening points required. The part­threaded version also features shank ribs, which lower driving torque and create a tension­free connection during installation.

The HECO­TOPIX­plus Countersunk Head screw is also designed for structural timber construction. Its full thread enables the transmission of high tensile and compressive forces while significantly reducing the number of fixing points required. The optimised thread pitch makes installation faster and easier. In addition, the patented HECO­TOPIX point reduces the risk of timber splitting and enables fast installation without pre­drilling or countersinking.

As a result, the screw delivers fast, secure installation while reducing processing time by up to 30, the brand says.

www.heco-schrauben.com

STRENGTH THROUGH PARTNERSHIP

Backed by vertically integrated manufacturing, Linkwell provides a broad portfolio of fasteners and precision-engineered components

As the fastener industry faces challenges ranging from CBAM regulations to labour shortages, Linkwell continues to focus on automation, efficiency improvements and sustainable growth to strengthen its competitiveness in international markets…

Linkwell Industry Co. Ltd (Linkwell) is a Taiwanese fastener manufacturer, offering an extensive portfolio of products for automotive, industrial, machinery and construction applications.

Established in 1977, Linkwell has grown into a recognised supplier of fastening solutions, serving customers across a diverse range of industries. The company originally started as a trading business. However, it recognised that long­term growth would require its own manufacturing capabilities, and therefore gradually established its own production facilities.

Headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, the company specialises in the manufacture of custom­engineered components produced to customer drawings and specifications. This capability enables the company to support a wide variety of project requirements, from specialised industrial applications to highvolume commercial programmes.

Kosky Yen, President of Linkwell, says

that the company’s comprehensive supply chain and long­term collaborations with clients set it apart from fellow Taiwanese fastener manufacturers.

According to Yen, the company’s vertically integrated manufacturing capabilities, combined with decades­long supplier relationships, enable Linkwell to offer a comprehensive product portfolio spanning all kinds of fasteners and other engineered components.

He adds that Linkwell boasts multiple customers who have been working with the company for more than 30 to 40 years, with some partnerships dating back to the early years of the company.

“We also enjoy a high level of stability among both our supplier partners and employees, with many team members having been with the company for more than 20 to 30 years. The trust built through these long­term relationships is one of our most valuable assets,” Yen comments.

OPERATIONS AND MANUFACTURING FACILITIES

In addition to its operations in Taiwan, Linkwell has established a manufacturing footprint across Asia, with production facilities located in Thailand, mainland China, Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam. The facility in Thailand operates as a joint venture, while the company’s other overseas manufacturing sites are wholly owned and independently managed. This regional presence enables Linkwell to provide efficient production capacity and responsive support to customers across global markets.

The company’s expansion into Malaysia and Indonesia was initially driven by antidumping measures imposed by the European Union (EU) on stainless screw products, prompting Linkwell to establish alternative manufacturing bases to ensure a more competitive supply chain. Vietnam, meanwhile, was selected in anticipation of

// Our focus is on supporting our customers’ requirements while continuously improving operational efficiency, reducing energy usage and lowering carbon emissions across our operations //

the country’s long­term growth potential, with production commencing at the end of 2017.

Linkwell’s Malaysian operation has been established for more than 20 years, while its Indonesian facility has a history of approximately 15 years. The company’s Vietnamese plant has been operating for around nine years, further strengthening its manufacturing network across Southeast Asia.

Although the company operates in several Southeast Asian countries, Yen believes that manufacturing fastener products in Taiwan is still cost­effective.

Yen attributes Taiwan’s competitiveness to its mature industrial ecosystem, where specialist processes such as heat treatment and plating can be outsourced to experienced partners without requiring manufacturers to invest in every stage of production.

In recent years, the influx of foreign investment into countries such as Vietnam and Thailand has continued to drive up labour and land costs, according to Yen. As a result, when overall supply chain efficiency is taken into account, manufacturing in Taiwan is not necessarily more expensive than in Southeast Asia.

“In some cases, Taiwan can even offer a more cost­effective solution, supported by its mature industrial ecosystem, established supplier network and operational efficiency.”

CLIENTELE

Currently the US is Linkwell’s largest market when measured on a country­bycountry basis. However, when assessed by region, total sales across Europe have now slightly surpassed those in the US.

The company’s products are distributed worldwide, with an established presence across North America, Central and South America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Japan, as well as selected markets in the Middle East, North Africa and South Africa.

Yen says that Linkwell maintains long­

standing customer relationships in virtually all major industrial markets, reflecting the global reach of its manufacturing and supply capabilities.

Regarding market sentiment, Yen believes that the US market continues to demonstrate relatively strong performance, while demand across Europe has generally been more subdued.

“However, Europe comprises a diverse group of national markets, each with its own economic conditions and demand patterns. As a result, weaker performance in certain countries does not necessarily translate into a significant decline across the region as a whole,” he says.

Although the COVID­19 pandemic has subsided, the fastener industry continues to feel the effects of the disruption it caused. From late 2020 through the first half of 2022, market demand was exceptionally strong, prompting many customers to place large orders and build up inventory amid concerns over potential supply shortages. This trend was not limited to the fastener industry, with similar purchasing behaviour seen across a wide range of manufacturing sectors.

However, the market subsequently cooled at a rapid pace, leaving some customers under pressure from high­cost inventory accumulated during the peak demand period. While conditions have yet to fully recover, Linkwell believes that the most challenging phase of the downturn has now passed.

Although a return to the unprecedented levels of demand seen during the pandemic is unlikely in the near term, the market is gradually moving towards a healthier and more sustainable balance, characterised by more rational purchasing patterns and inventory management.

CBAM

There is a great deal of uncertainty regarding the practical implementation of CBAM.

Kosky Yen, President of Linkwell

Yen notes that CBAM presents a particular challenge for manufacturers with production facilities spread across multiple countries, as carbon accounting methodologies and potential carbon costs vary significantly between jurisdictions.

“Our focus is on supporting our customers’ requirements while continuously improving operational efficiency, reducing energy usage and lowering carbon emissions across our operations. That said, the ultimate impact will largely depend on how national policies and regulatory frameworks are put into practice,” Yen explains.

Challenges and plans for future Manufacturers worldwide are facing increasing challenges related to labour shortages and rising operating costs. As a result, automation and smart manufacturing technologies are becoming increasingly important for maintaining long­term competitiveness. As labour availability becomes more constrained, companies are under growing pressure to improve efficiency and reduce their reliance on manual processes.

Yen believes companies that fail to advance their automation capabilities risk losing competitiveness in the years ahead, adding that automation has become a strategic necessity rather than an optional investment.

Looking ahead, Linkwell does not currently plan to undertake major new factory investments. Instead, the company intends to focus on increasing automation, improving production efficiency and strengthening its manufacturing capabilities.

“Rather than pursuing large­scale expansion, our goal is to enhance overall competitiveness through continuous optimisation and efficiency improvements,” Yen concludes.

www.linkwell.com.tw

ASIA PACIFIC TERRITORY FOCUS

BETTING ON PERFORMANCE OVER PRICE

Backed by strong investment in R&D and an export-focused business model, John Chen Screw targets the high-end local and international fastener markets with its newly developed Grade 16.9 super alloy screws…

John Chen Screw is a Taiwanese fastener manufacturer specialising in stainless steel fasteners. Established in 1981, the company has more than 40 years of experience in the industry and has built a reputation for fast delivery, customised solutions and high product quality.

At Taiwan International Fastener Show 2026, John Chen Screw exhibited Grade 16.9 super alloy screws, which the company has been developing over the past 14 years. Designed specifically for turning tool holders and face mills, Grade 16.9 super alloy screws deliver exceptional strength and durability in demanding machining applications.

With a hardness of HRC 56 and a tensile strength exceeding 1,600 N/mm², the screws provide secure fastening under high

// John Chen Screw specialises in customised products and accepts small quantity orders, allowing it to serve a broader range of customers across multiple industries //

At Fastener Taiwan 2026, John Chen Screw showcases its Grade 16.9 super alloy screws, the result of 14 years of research and development

loads and cutting forces. The screws also feature a surface treatment that eliminates the need for anti­seize compounds while offering outstanding corrosion resistance. Depending on the application, they can withstand 8,000 to 20,000 hours of salt spray testing, equivalent to up to 250 years of rust resistance. In addition, the Torx recess maintains its original shape even after 250 repeated uses, ensuring reliable installation and removal over an extended service life.

By providing a tighter and more stable fastening force, the screws help minimise cutting vibration and can extend tool life by up to 20%. Laboratory testing has also shown that they can last between 30 and 250 times longer than comparable screws from major brands. A full range of stan­

dard sizes is available from stock, while custom designs can be developed to meet specific application requirements.

According to Brad Huang, Assistant Manager of the Global Sales Department at John Chen Screw, the product was driven by growing market demand and a desire to compete directly with established international brands.

“We aim to deliver a product that combines high performance and quality with a more competitive price point, offering customers an alternative source of highstrength fastening solutions,” says Huang.

STRONG FOCUS ON INNOVATION

Research and development remain central to John Chen Screw’s growth strategy. Over the past four decades, the company has accumulated more than 100 proprietary technologies spanning manufacturing processes, tooling development and production equipment.

The company invests approximately TWD 12 million (£285,000) annually in R&D and maintains a dedicated engineering team focused on developing specialised products for international high­end markets.

According to Huang, this focus on innovation and quality has enabled the company to avoid competing solely on price, despite increasing competition from manufacturers in China and Vietnam.

“Many low­priced, lower­quality orders have shifted to China and Vietnam. However, we continue to secure business for highquality, value­added products because we have differentiated ourselves in the market. While there has been some impact, it has

not been significant because our focus remains on high­end products,” he explains.

Huang also highlights the company’s flexibility as a key differentiator. Unlike many manufacturers that prioritise largevolume orders, John Chen Screw specialises in customised products and accepts small­quantity orders, allowing it to serve a broader range of customers across multiple industries.

Export-driven growth

Exports account for 70% of John Chen Screw’s business, with the remaining 30% generated from the domestic market in Taiwan. Japan and the US are the company’s

Rather than competing on price alone, the company focuses on delivering value despite growing competition from manufacturers in China and Vietnam

largest export markets, each accounting for around 40% of overseas sales, while the remainder is distributed across Europe.

Huang says the company is fully capable of meeting European standards and certification requirements.

“We can fully meet those standards. If inspection reports are required, we can provide them. Exporting to Europe requires additional effort, but it is something we are fully capable of doing,” he says.

The US market remains stable, although Huang notes that growth is increasingly driven by existing customers rather than new business opportunities.

“In the past, we received large orders from long­standing customers while also bringing in new customers. Today, most of our business comes from existing customers who know our products and trust our quality. Although our prices are higher, they are willing to pay for that quality,” he explains.

Looking ahead, Huang expects Taiwan’s fastener industry to face increasing pressure from changing market conditions and regional competition. As a result, he believes manufacturers must continue moving up the value chain.

“We have focused on developing highervalue, higher­quality products, and we believe this is the direction the industry needs to take. Companies that fail to upgrade their capabilities or differentiate themselves may struggle to survive as competition from China and Vietnam continues to increase,” he concludes.

www.jcscrew.com.tw

“THE STRONGEST APAC SUPPLY CHAINS ARE BUILT ON PARTNERSHIPS, NOT PRICE”

Optimas International explores how evolving sourcing priorities are reshaping supplier relationships and driving a more strategic approach to procurement…

Over the past 25 years, the fastener industry has evolved dramatically.

Sourcing strategies that were once relatively straightforward now operate within landscapes shaped by globalisation, evolving trade dynamics, geopolitical uncertainty, regulatory requirements, tariffs and rising customer expectations.

This is particularly true in the AsiaPacific (APAC) region. Unlike more geographically condensed regions, APAC encompasses fragmented markets, extensive trade routes, differing trade agreements and regulatory frameworks and multiple currencies.

These complexities create a challenging environment for manufacturers and fastener suppliers operating across the region. OEMs are no longer just buying fasteners; they are investing in the confidence that their production lines will continue running without disruption. The ability to maintain continuity, mitigate risk and respond quickly to changing conditions is now equally as important as cost.

While cost will always remain a key consideration, the cost of a production stoppage or supply chain disruption can quickly outweigh the savings generated through marginal purchase­price reductions.

APAC's operating environment is forcing manufacturers to reconsider what value really looks like. The challenge for suppliers is that many of the metrics traditionally used to demonstrate value are becoming less relevant. OEMs are increasingly evaluating partners on their ability to support resilience and supply chain continuity rather than simply providing the lowest unit cost. Yet, many suppliers continue to position themselves primarily on price.

The conversations we are having with manufacturers today are fundamentally different from those of a decade ago. Discussions that once centred primarily on price now focus equally on risk exposure, inventory resilience, regional support capabilities and supply chain visibility. Increasingly, manufacturers are recognising that resilience cannot be secured at the point of disruption; it must be built into supplier relationships long before the challenges arise.

As manufacturing footprints expand across APAC, suppliers are increasingly expected to operate as regional partners, capable of serving multiple production sites. Partnerships need to deliver local inventory, coordinated logistics, consistent quality standards and proactive cross­border communication.

The role of a fastener distributor has therefore evolved from supplier to strategic supply chain partner. Transactional relationships are becoming increasingly unsustainable in an ever­changing region. Instead, manufacturers are seeking collaborative partnerships built around forecasting, inventory planning, risk management and long­term operational stability.

These partnerships deliver benefits beyond continuity of supply. Shared planning improves responsiveness, while agreements that account for commodity fluctuations, currency movements and changing demand patterns create greater stability for both parties. Strong governance, compliance and sustainability standards further strengthen trust and reduce operational risk.

And perhaps most importantly, strategic partnerships create opportunities for innovation and expansion. By aligning growth objectives and sharing market insights, partners can identify opportunities across product categories, customer sectors and emerging markets. Early engi­

APAC supply chains are shifting towards fewer, but stronger, supplier relationships

neering engagement, design­stage collaboration and coordinated sourcing strategies create pathways for innovation and accelerate routes to market. When relationships move beyond procurement, they become a driver of competitive advantage.

Looking ahead, APAC supply chains are likely to be defined by fewer, but stronger supplier relationships, supported by greater regional coordination and increased visibility across the supply network. Supplier selection criteria continue to evolve, with factors such as resilience, inventory flexibility, ESG performance and regional service capability carrying as much weight as price competitiveness when evaluating supply partners.

At the same time, we are going to see further regionalisation of supply networks as manufacturers seek to balance efficiency with risk management. Rather than concentrating sourcing in a single market, businesses will increasingly build networks capable of supporting continuity across multiple countries and production locations.

Over the next decade, the winners in APAC manufacturing will not necessarily be those that buy the cheapest fasteners. They will be those that build supply partnerships capable of anticipating disruption, adapting quickly and maintaining continuity when others cannot.

www.optimasinternational.com

ASIA PACIFIC TERRITORY FOCUS

PRECISE DETECTION WITH ADVANCED TECH

Ching Chan’s advanced AI leverages deep learning and improves through daily training

Based in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Ching Chan Optical Technology specialises in producing high-precision sorting devices for fastener manufacturers across the world. At Fastener Taiwan 2026, Torque Magazine talked to the company over its business and future plans…

Ching Chan Optical Technology was established in 1992, beginning its business with the manufacture of vibratory feeders. The company later developed optical sorting machines and simultaneously established a contract sorting division. Today, backed by its high­precision optical inspection and sorting technology, Ching Chan has become a supplier of sorting equipment for many leading fastener manufacturers in Taiwan and around the world.

In 2000, the company expanded into sorting and screening machines. Initially, Ching Chan focused on simple screw and nut inspections, even operating its own OEM screening facility for three to four years to guarantee machine quality through hands­on operation before selling equipment externally.

Jackson Huang, Sales Manager of Ching Chan, says that the independent, in­house development of sorting machines is the company’s core technical advantage, as Ching Chan has around 40 engineers out of a total workforce of 200 employees.

“Our primary strength lies in independent, in­house development across software, hardware, mechanical design, programming and optical­mechanical­electrical integration,” Huang says. “Because everything, from software and hardware to the production of sorting machines, is developed in­house, we offer an exceptionally high level of customisation.”

Competitive edge

Aside from the quality of its products, Ching Chan also prioritises the quality of its after­sales service. Despite not offering the lowest prices, Huang says clients recognise that the cost directly reflects the company’s top­tier, real­time technical support provided through its local agent network.

Moreover, Ching Chan has also integrated AI into its sorting machines. Huang states that traditional software often mistakes good products for defects or struggles to accurately detect flaws when images contain high levels of noise.

“In contrast, our advanced AI utilises deep learning and undergoes continuous daily training. This allows the system to precisely isolate minute flaws even under noisy conditions, significantly boosting both production capacity and inspection accuracy,” Huang says.

Moreover, there is also a distinct difference in AI quality across the market, with some systems being merely functional or rule­based AI that lack comprehensive capabilities and serve as little more than a software gimmick. Huang emphasises that Ching Chan’s AI systems can “genuinely solve customer problems”, as the company balances independent research and development with external collaborations with other AI companies to leverage each other's technical strengths.

Ching Chan's optical sorting machines are designed to inspect and sort a wide range of fasteners used in demanding industries such as aerospace and automotive manufacturing. To accommodate different fastener sizes and production requirements, the company offers a comprehensive range of machines, including a Standard Rotary Disk Sorting Machine, Larger Rotary Disk Sorting Machine, Rotary Disk Sorting Machine for Long Screws, Glass Dial Sorting Machine and a Continuous­Running Rotary Disk Sorting Machine.

Ching Chan is expanding its focus into the semiconductor industry

Domestic and international markets

Ching Chan’s products are distributed across approximately 30 countries worldwide. Geographically, the Greater China region is crucial to the company’s business, with the Taiwanese market accounting for 20­30% of its business and Mainland China accounting for 30­40%. The remainder comes from overseas markets.

To better serve every market, Ching Chan has established dedicated local service teams in almost every region. In Japan, Germany and the US, Ching Chan has maintained close partnerships with its agents for nearly 20 years. Furthermore, the company has worked with partners in Turkey and India for more than 10 years. In emerging markets such as Thailand and Italy, Ching Chan has also introduced new service teams to expand its global footprint.

However, not every market has been booming in recent years. According to Huang, although the European market has been sluggish lately, Ching Chan’s customers continue to place orders.

“Our primary European strongholds are Germany and Italy. In Italy, we collaborate with the largest local fastener and automotive fastener manufacturer, which provides us with strong technical synergies,” he says.

Regarding other countries, Ching Chan is also actively tapping into opportunities in France and Spain.

Meanwhile, the US market is managed through specialised agents based in Illinois and California. The US division focuses heavily on high­precision sectors such as aerospace. Because aerospace clients demand extreme precision and flawless surface defect detection, Ching Chan has deployed its advanced AI systems there to significantly improve defect detection rates, precision and accuracy.

In Taiwan, the market is exhibiting a trend in which "the large become larger", according to Willy Tsai, Manager of the Sales Department, who oversees the company’s domestic market.

“Large enterprises are heavily investing in automation to replace manual labour and leveraging AI systems to collect production data for process optimisation,” he says.

Conversely, labour shortages, driven by the immense popularity of Taiwan's electronics and semiconductor sectors, will force many small companies to downsize or shut down. Tsai adds that traditional manufacturing simply cannot compete with the high salaries and excellent benefits offered by these high­paying technology sectors.

“However, if we look at it from another perspective, it also means that genuinely skilled technical professionals will become increasingly scarce,” Tsai says. “While this inevitably drives up labour costs for manufacturers, it also reflects the fundamental market principle that scarcity creates value. As a result, traditional manufacturers are under growing pressure to accelerate their transition towards intelligent automation and smart manufacturing.”

Looking ahead, Ching Chan’s next phase of growth will lie in the semiconductor industry.

As part of its strategy to diversify into new industries, Ching Chan acquired a 100% stake in The First Contact Tech (TFCT) in 2019. TFCT is a leading manufacturer of automated optical inspection (AOI) systems, serving industries including passive components, semiconductors and LEDs.

TFCT’s main products are chip electronic component automated inspection (AOI) machines, which are suitable for passive components, resistors, inductors, capacitors (RLC), semiconductors, LEDs, diodes and other wafer­based components.

The acquisition has significantly broadened Ching Chan's product portfolio, enabling the company to adopt a multi­brand marketing strategy to better meet the diverse needs of its customers. It has also enhanced production efficiency through the integration of manufacturing resources, consolidated raw material procurement across both businesses, and created technological synergies by combining the expertise of the two companies.

www.ccm3s.com

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DECADES OF PRECISION MANUFACTURING

Backed by vertically integrated operations and decades of engineering experience, San Shing delivers comprehensive tooling solutions to customers across both traditional and high-tech industries…

Celebrating its 60th anniversary, San Shing Fastech Corp. continues to strengthen its position as a trusted global partner in precision tooling and advanced manufacturing.

San Shing specialises in a wide range of tooling manufacturing, including OEM cold­ and hot­forging dies, punches, pins, complex­profile tooling, stamping tools, rubber injection and compression moulds, as well as precision machinery components for global partners. While maintaining strong foundations in the automotive, aerospace, construction, hand tools and industrial manufacturing sectors, San Shing is actively expanding into the semiconductor, optoelectronics, medical, sports and AI­driven high­tech sectors.

Built upon six decades of engineering expertise and craftsmanship, and supported by a team of more than 360 professionals, San Shing’s Tooling Division has evolved from a traditional forging tool manufacturer into a vertically integrated precision manufacturing group serving both industrial and high­tech sectors worldwide.

Equipped with more than 370 advanced CNC machining centres, multi­axis machining systems, EDM and wire­cutting technologies, as well as high­precision inspection and measuring equipment, San Shing has established a comprehensive manufacturing platform capable of delivering total solutions for global customers across diverse industries.

To remain at the forefront of modern manufacturing, San Shing continues to invest in smart production systems, advanced machining technologies and nextgeneration quality assurance capabilities. Its extensive in­house operations, from customised drawing verification, machining, heat treatment and grinding to final inspection, ensure consistent quality standards and reliable delivery performance.

More than just a manufacturing partner, San Shing values long­term relationships built on trust, communication and shared growth. The company welcomes global customers and partners to connect and explore future opportunities together.

www.sanshing.com.tw

San Shing is expanding into semiconductor, medical and AI-driven high-tech sectors

ASIA PACIFIC TERRITORY FOCUS

TAIWAN'S HARDWARE SHOWCASE RETURNS

During the TiTE x IHT show, international buyers can verify product specifications and visit nearby manufacturing facilities within 24 hours to conduct factory audits and assess production capacity…

The Taiwan International Tools & Hardware Expo (TiTE) and International Hardware Expo Taiwan (IHT) will return to Taichung in October 2026.

The exhibition will take place from 20 to 22 October at the Taichung International Convention and Exhibition Centre (TICEC). According to organiser Lanza International Co., Ltd., the 2026 edition is expected to attract up to 500 exhibitors and feature more than 1,000 booths, making it one of the largest and most comprehensive hardware industry exhibitions in Taiwan.

Under the theme From Manufacturing to Co­Creation | AI Empowerment · Smart Upgrade, the exhibition will showcase a wide range of hand tools, fasteners and building hardware, alongside advanced automation equipment, AI­powered collaborative robots, low­carbon materials and energyefficient manufacturing technologies.

The exhibition aims to provide international buyers with a comprehensive sourcing platform covering the entire manufacturing process, from design and precision machining to carbon footprint management and sustainable delivery solutions. Organisers say the event will highlight the resilience, innovation and high added value of Taiwan’s manufacturing sector in an increasingly competitive global market.

A key feature of the exhibition is its "Exhibition as Factory, Sourcing as Decision­Making" model. International buyers can verify product specifications during the exhibition and visit nearby manufacturing facilities within 24 hours for factory audits and production capacity assessments. The approach is designed to

The show is expected to welcome up to 500 exhibitors across over 1,000 booths

shorten sourcing cycles and reduce procurement costs.

To further support international participation, visitor registration and applications for the International Buyer Accommodation Subsidy Programme are now open. More than 70% of exhibition space has already been reserved.

In addition to preparations for the 2026 event, organisers announced that the 2025 exhibition has successfully achieved ISO 14067 Carbon Footprint certification following an independent audit process.

Lanza International stated that the certification reflects a comprehensive verification programme covering event planning, on­site monitoring and postshow data analysis. The achievement demonstrates that TiTE x IHT meets internationally recognised environmental standards and highlights the organisers’ commitment to supporting the transition of Taiwan’s manufacturing supply chain towards lower­carbon business practices. The initiative is also intended to help Taiwanese manufacturers strengthen their competitiveness as global decarbonisation requirements continue to expand.

www.hardwareexpotw.com

ASIA PACIFIC TERRITORY FOCUS

ONE-STOP SOLUTION

Kingwin Precision combines decades of manufacturing expertise with advanced CNC production and ISO 9001-certified quality management to supply precision forming tools for the global fastener industry…

Founded in 2003, Kingwin Precision specialises in manufacturing highquality forming tools for the fastener industry. The company operates an ISO 9001­certified quality management system and focuses on meeting customers' requirements for quality, specifications and on­time delivery, helping it maintain an excellent reputation within the industry.

Kingwin's manufacturing expertise is built on decades of experience in meeting customers' specialised requirements. The company supplies forming tools manufactured to customer drawings or sample parts, utilising CAD systems for product

design and CAM systems to support its CNC machining operations.

Operating more than 40 CNC machines across two shifts, with production running 16 hours a day, Kingwin can accommodate orders ranging from as few as five pieces to more than 3,000 pieces per order. The company also uses barcode tracking throughout the production process, enabling every stage of an order to be monitored efficiently from manufacture through to completion.

Kingwin Precision offers a comprehensive range of tooling solutions for fastener manufacturing applications. Its punch

product portfolio includes stamping, square, socket, 6­lobe, hex, 12­point, piercing, header, recess, extrusion and ejector punches, as well as inserts, sleeves and K.O. pins.

The company's die range comprises nut, screw, segment, cutting, trimming and carbide insert dies, together with header dies and open die sets. In addition, Kingwin manufactures a wide selection of forming machine components, including transfer fingers, cutters, holders, collets, rollers, ratchet wheels, spacers and spring clips. www.kingwin.tw

ASIA PACIFIC TERRITORY FOCUS

BI-METAL INNOVATION

The European market is key to Sun Through's business, which has a strong R&D capability and the support of a dedicated subsidiary specialising in heat treatment…

Sun Through is a premier OEM maketo­order fastener manufacturer specialising in high­performance self­drilling screws and bi­metal fasteners.

As one of Taiwan's leading pioneers in bi­metal technology, the company serves a global customer base, with more than 80% of its revenue generated from the demanding European market.

Sun Through's core competitive edge lies in its strong R&D capabilities and comprehensive production control, supported by a dedicated subsidiary specialising in heat treatment. The company's patented spiral self­drilling screws deliver drilling speeds up to 50% faster than conventional self­drilling screws, can penetrate steel plates up to

More than 80% of the company’s revenue comes from Europe

Sun Through supplies OEM/ODM solutions and ultra-high-strength bolts up to Grade 14.8

30mm thick, and reduce installation time by as much as 50%.

Certified to ISO 9001 and offering full support for CE and ETA documentation, Sun Through provides tailored OEM/ODM solutions, engineered standard parts and ultra­high strength bolts up to Grade 14.8. Committed to metallurgical precision and exceptional quality, the company has established itself as a trusted long­term partner for industrial customers worldwide, it says.

Founded in 1996, Sun Through began as a supplier of heat treatment equipment, developing extensive expertise in heat treatment technology. In 2004, the company's founder developed a new bimetal welding process. After two years of

research, development and testing, Sun Through commercialised its bi­metal screw technology and began production in 2006. Through consistent product quality and reliable delivery, the company has earned the trust of customers around the world.

Innovation remains central to Sun Through's business strategy. The company develops products designed to reduce installation time and minimise long­term maintenance costs for customers. Supported by advanced expertise in heat treatment and bimetal welding, Sun Through operates its own heat treatment facilities through dedicated subsidiaries, enabling strict quality control throughout the supply chain. From raw material processing and cold forming to heat treatment and surface finishing, every product is manufactured in Taiwan to ensure consistent quality and dependable delivery.

www.sunthrough-industrial.com

PATENTED FOR PERFORMANCE

Backed by patented designs, international certifications and a strong supply network, Taiwan Precision Fastener also strives to innovate with new products for customers worldwide…

TPF launches one to two new products each year

Taiwan Precision Fastener (TPF) is a specialist manufacturer of high­performance screws, committed to delivering innovative fastening solutions and consistently high product quality.

TPF's product portfolio includes wood screws, mill­point self­drilling screws, chipboard screws, self­drilling screws and self­tapping screws. The company has also developed a range of patented wood screw designs for professional applications, offering customers differentiated products that help strengthen their private­label portfolios, expand market share and enhance profitability.

Innovation is at the heart of TPF's business strategy. The company invests heavily in research and development, with a goal of introducing one or two new products each year. Its proprietary fastening technologies are designed to deliver enhanced performance while providing distributors and end users with solutions that stand out in an increasingly competitive market.

In addition to CE certification, TPF's XDC Point wood screws are certified under ETA (ETA 19/0779), further demonstrating the company's commitment to quality and compliance with international standards.

Having served the fastener industry for many years, TPF began by supplying the domestic Taiwanese market before expanding its business internationally. Today, the company supports customers worldwide through responsive service, dependable delivery and flexible manufacturing capabilities.

www.taiwan-precision-fastener.com

ASIA PACIFIC TERRITORY FOCUS

BUILT FOR GLOBAL SUPPLY

ALFIRSTE and ALFIRS Hardware combine advanced production capabilities with rigorous quality control to serve global fastener markets…

ALFIRSTE operates a manufacturing facility in Yuyao, Zhejiang Province, China, where it has completed the development of its bi­metal screw range and is now progressively fulfilling customer orders.

Alongside this, the company continues to invest in laboratory facilities and research personnel to optimise the production costs of carbon steel screws, stainless steel screws and bi­metal screws. These investments enable ALFIRSTE to maintain world­class product quality while offering increasingly competitive pricing.

Established in 2006, the ALFIRSTE factory occupies a 15,000m² site with a 12,000m² production facility. Equipped with advanced manufacturing equipment and supported by an experienced team of engineers and technical professionals, the plant has a monthly production capacity of 1,500 tonnes. Today, its products are exported to more than 20 countries across Europe and the Americas, where it has earned a strong reputation for quality, competitive pricing and reliable service.

ALFIRS Hardware operates a separate manufacturing facility in Thailand. After two years of production, the factory has achieved a stable monthly output of 1,000 tonnes, with its carbon steel fasteners exported primarily to Europe and the US. In response to the anti­dumping duties imposed by the European Union on headless screws imported from China, ranging from 54.7% to 72.3%, ALFIRS invested in additional production equipment last year to manufacture threaded rods. This expansion has enabled the company to help customers reduce the impact of increased import tariffs while broadening its product offering.

Both ALFIRSTE and ALFIRS Hardware follow the same rigorous quality management principles. From raw material inspection through to finished products, every batch undergoes comprehensive laboratory testing, while quality inspectors carry out random inspections throughout each stage of the manufacturing process to ensure only qualified products proceed to the next stage of production.

ALFIRSTE and ALFIRS Hardware operate under the same strict quality management system

Sustainability remains a key priority for both factories. ALFIRSTE and ALFIRS are committed to environmentally responsible manufacturing and are actively supporting the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) audit process. Both companies aim to be among the first manufacturers in the sector to successfully complete CBAM verification.

Guided by the philosophy of "Original Spirit & Manufacture With Heart", both companies continue to invest in product

development and international certification. Many of their products have already obtained CE, ETA and ICC certifications, while ongoing research and development supports the introduction of new products. As the European and US markets continue to recover, ALFIRSTE and ALFIRS are committed to providing customers with innovative fastening solutions that meet evolving market demands.

www.alfirste.cn

FOCUS

PRECISION IN EVERY CLINCH

PEARSON serves customers worldwide with a comprehensive range of precision-engineered products…

Located in Taoyuan City, PEARSON is one of Taiwan’s leading manufacturers of clinching fasteners. Since it was established in 1990, the company has developed an efficient production and supply process covering key cold­forming operations for products such as clinch nuts, standoffs and bushes.

PEARSON has also made significant investments in research and development, securing a number of patents for innovative product designs and specialised fastening solutions.

With a strong export focus, PEARSON has been supplying customers in global markets, including Europe and the US, for more than 20 years. Combining reliable quality, technical expertise and responsive delivery, the company has established itself as a trusted partner for customers seeking high­performance fastening solutions.

PEARSON’s product portfolio includes anchor rivet bush nuts, clinch nuts, clinch nuts with prevailing torque locking, kelly nuts, pierce­clinch nuts, rivets for locking parts, rivets and special bolts.

www.pearson-clinch.com.tw

PEARSON supplies customers in markets around the world

PEARSON’s investment in R&D results in patented fastening solutions

ASIA PACIFIC TERRITORY FOCUS

COMMITMENT TO PERFORMANCE AND SUSTAINABILITY

With more than 40 years of experience, JOKER Industrial continues to meet the evolving needs of customers worldwide through its portfolio of anchors, fasteners and precision fixing solutions…

Founded in 1984 in Changhua, Taiwan, JOKER Industrial has grown from a domestic hardware manufacturer into a leader in anchors, fasteners and precision fixings, built on four decades of engineering innovation and an unwavering commitment to quality.

JOKER's international growth began at the Cologne Fair in the 1980s, where President Huang unveiled a revolutionary stamping technique for nut production. Applied to hollow wall anchors, the technology replaced costly milling processes and helped the company expand into the European and North American markets. Today, JOKER holds more than 30 patents and supplies high­performance fastening solutions to renowned companies worldwide.

In 2014, JOKER became the first Asian manufacturer to receive ETA certification (ETA­14/0374) for concrete screws. In 2025, it achieved another world first when its A4­316 stainless steel concrete screws earned ETA Seismic C2 approval, placing JOKER among only two manufacturers worldwide to pass this most stringent seismic performance test.

Thanks to these performance values, engineers and contractors can achieve certified safety standards using the minimum number of screw anchors, reducing labour requirements, accelerating project completion and lowering overall material costs.

JOKER's ETA­certified concrete screw anchors are now available in eco­friendly green steel, fully compliant with EPD ISO 14025. This commitment to sustainability does not come at the expense of performance. The company's patented threethread design delivers what exceptional tensile strength and superior safety factors, seamlessly combining top­tier structural performance with modern sustainable construction, it says.

To support engineers on site, JOKER offers the free web­based DesignFiX calculation software, allowing users to input real project conditions and receive precise screw size recommendations. JOKER also proactively provides CBAM data to support importers complying with EU carbon disclosure requirements, reflecting decades of transparency and strong part­

nerships with European customers.

Alongside its flagship concrete screws and patented anti­bending hollow wall anchors, JOKER's product port folio includes blind jack nut rivets, cavity and plasterboard fixings, express nails, anchor installation tools and custom neered solutions for the construction, window framing, sanitary ware, sandwich panel and automotive sectors.

www.joker-fastener.com

JOKER was the first Asian manufacturer to achieve ETA certification for concrete screws

ASIA PACIFIC TERRITORY FOCUS

MATATAKITOYO combines manufacturing agility with global compliance to ensure quality

PRECISION, DIGITALISATION AND RESILIENCE: DRIVING THE NEXT ERA OF PROFESSIONAL TOOLS FROM TAIWAN

MATATAKITOYO highlights how advanced torque solutions and smart tool technologies are helping distributors meet the growing demands of modern industrial applications…

As the global supply chain continues to seek resilience and diversification, the Asia­Pacific region has become the focus of manufacturing realignments.

Within this dynamic landscape, Taiwan remains a powerhouse for high­end professional hand tools and precision components, according to MATATAKITOYO. While emerging markets offer high­volume production, global distributors and industrial buyers increasingly rely on Taiwan for specialised engineering, stringent quality control and rapid adaptation to market shifts.

The modern industrial market demands more than just basic functionality; it requires tools that seamlessly integrate into digitised and highly regulated workflows.

For instance, in sectors such as automotive assembly, aerospace and renewable energy, torque precision is paramount. Strict alignment with international standards, such as

// Taiwan remains a powerhouse for high-end professional hand tools and precision components //

ISO 6789 for torque tools, has shifted from a competitive advantage to a baseline requirement. Buyers now look for manufacturers that can deliver advanced internal mechanism designs, exceptional calibration accuracy and reliable ergonomics that minimise workplace errors.

Furthermore, digital transformation is redefining the tool industry. Smart tools equipped with data transmission capabilities are becoming essential for modern smart factories, where every fastening process must be tracked and recorded.

As a leading professional developer in this field, MATATAKITOYO has continuously invested in advanced factory calibration equipment and custom mould designs to meet these evolving challenges. The company specialises in providing global distributors with a comprehensive range of advanced solutions, including BTA & WDTA Wireless Torque Adapters

for smart data transmission, specialised Insulated Tools for the burgeoning EV market, and high­end MTS & RSR Torque Display & Calibration Systems that ensure ultimate precision.

By balancing localised manufacturing agility with global technical compliance, MATATAKITOYO enables its partners to navigate supply chain uncertainties without compromising on quality or performance.

www.matatakitoyo.com

CONTINUOUS INVESTMENT IN REFINED PRODUCTS

TSY

Taiwan Shan Yin (TSY) is committed to developing high­performance fastening solutions designed for modern construction and industrial applications.

Founded in 1984, the company's product portfolio includes patented construction screws, standard construction screws, industrial fasteners, self­tapping screws, self­drilling screws, automotive fasteners, electronic screws and customised OEM/ODM fastening products, supporting a wide range of industries and market requirements.

Beyond offering a comprehensive fastening product range, TSY continuously invests in patented fastening technologies, multimaterial solutions and high­corrosionresistance coating systems to help global partners improve installation efficiency and strengthen their market competitiveness.

Through optimised thread geometry, reverse­tip technology, cutting structures and other performance­driven enhancements, TSY screws deliver faster installation, reduced wood­splitting risks and

improved fastening performance across a wide range of applications, including timber construction, decking, outdoor projects, steel framing, industrial installations and other fastening applications.

TSY's multi­material fastening solutions are designed for wood, plastic boards, drywall, steel sheets and selected concrete applications, helping customers simplify inventory management and improve installation efficiency.

In addition, the company's self­developed SKT® Coating is compatible with a wide range of metal substrates and chemical surface treatments, delivering outstanding corrosion protection in demanding environments. Available in customised colours, it is particularly suited to ACQ­treated timber used in construction and decking applications. The coating has successfully passed rigorous durability testing, including up to 2,500 hours of salt spray testing (SST) and 20 cycles of the Kesternich corrosion test.

In addition to product innovation, TSY

offers flexible OEM/ODM partnership support backed by manufacturing facilities in Taiwan and Malaysia, ensuring a stable supply, rapid product development and global customer support.

Taiwan Shan Yin is certified to IATF 16949:2016 and SA8000, and its construction screws are ETA certified. Together with its ISO 9001­certified manufacturing facilities, the company is able to meet the requirements of the automotive industry and other demanding sectors.

The company's commitment to quality is underpinned by rigorous in­process quality control and advanced manufacturing facilities equipped with comprehensive production technology.

More than just a fastener manufacturer, TSY is a fastening solutions partner dedicated to helping customers strengthen their market competitiveness and create long­term value through innovative products and collaborative partnerships.

www.shanyin.com.tw

ASIA PACIFIC TERRITORY FOCUS

JAPANESE QUALITY AND EXPERTISE

In February 2026, Sunco Industries brought together representatives from five major suppliers for its second supplier roundtable. Following the inaugural session in July 2025, the discussion focused on how Japanese fastener manufacturers are expanding beyond the domestic market and creating new opportunities overseas…

Drawing on their own international experience, participants of Sunco’s second supplier roundtable exchanged views on entering global markets and shared their perspectives on how Japanese fasteners are perceived by buyers around the world.

At the discussion, Atsushi Hashimoto, President of Unytite Corporation, referred to the Taiwan Industrial Fasteners Institute (TIFI), which established a dedicated team to improve quality and actively participate in exhibitions in countries such as Germany and Poland.

“While Taiwan is promoting itself overseas in a coordinated manner through its industry association, I feel that Japan has room for improvement in this regard. Since individual companies face limitations in terms of funding and resources, effectively leveraging external systems and institutional support is extremely

important,” Hashimoto explains.

Yuki Kariya, Managing Director of QP Fastening Works, believes that selling drilling screws is no longer sufficient, since this sector has already matured and is beginning to enter a phase of gradual decline. Instead, Japanese fastener manufacturers need to provide clear added value, as this is becoming increasingly important.

“Under these conditions, the Japanese Building Standards Act specifies the use of designated construction materials for certain structural applications. By positioning our products within such regulatory or system­based frameworks, we believe we can create new opportunities for future growth,” Kariya says.

Yoshifumi Taniguchi, President of Nakaumi Industries, adds that actively engaging with overseas markets is crucial to expanding the company's business abroad.

Taniguchi uses the packaging requirements for threaded rod bolts as an example.

“As our presence in the European market grows, we believe we can contribute by helping to bring greater standardisation to packaging practices in this segment. For the time being, we intend to continue focusing on Europe.”

In the future, Nakaumi Industries aims

Nippon Fastener Corporation, adds that the company is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and exported to the US market many years ago. Given this historical connection, Nippon Fastener Corporation is considering focusing on the US market again.

“It is a country with which we have maintained connections throughout our history, and I am hopeful that this longstanding relationship may lead to new opportunities in the future,” says Murakami.

Meanwhile, expanding sales channels, steadily acquiring new customers and enhancing PR activities can help Japanese fastener manufacturers stand out in over seas markets, according to Miki Hiraoka, Manager in Sunco’s Purchasing Department.

volume rather than total sales value, the US has recently become its largest market.

Additionally, in H1 2026, Sunco received orders from Cyprus, Nigeria, Guatemala, Croatia, Saudi Arabia, the Czech Republic and Bangladesh.

“These enquiries suggest that market activity is beginning to emerge in these regions, and we believe it is important to continue monitoring overseas markets

As a Japanese company, Sunco offers multiple languages on its website, enabling buyers and visitors from differ ent countries to contact the company.

Tomokazu Takada, Assistant Section Manager in the International Trade Section at Sunco Industries, adds that the US, India, the UK and Vietnam currently account for approximately 50% of new Sunco customers. In terms of order

FOCUS

ASIA PACIFIC

TITANIUM EXPERTISE

With integrated capabilities spanning machining, hot heading and cold heading, Sinwafix offers customers a complete manufacturing solution from a single source...

Founded in 1999, Sinwafix specialises in supplying standard and nonstandard fasteners, tool accessories, stamping parts and construction hardware. The company has also achieved ISO 9001:2015 quality management system certification.

Headquartered in Xi’an, China, the company’s technical team places a strong emphasis on production technology development and innovation, helping design all workpieces. To improve production efficiency, the company regards automated production and CNC machining as its core competitive advantages.

The company is a professional exporter of high­quality fasteners and specialshaped parts manufactured from titanium and titanium alloys. Its products comply with GB, DIN, ANSI/ASME, ISO, UNI and JIS standards, with thread sizes ranging from M1 to M64.

Sinwafix also offers complete manufacturing capabilities, including machining, hot heading and cold heading, enabling it to meet customers’ one­stop sourcing requirements.

The company supplies titanium and titanium alloy products in a wide range of materials, including TA1, TA2, TA3, TA9, TA10, TA18, TB2, TB3, TB6, TB8, TC4, TC4ELI, TC11 and GR1­GR5, with Ti­6Al­

4V (TC4/GR5) being the most widely used. It also manufactures products using other non­ferrous materials, including nickel, Zr702, Zr705, C­276, 2205 and SS316.

Sinwafix’s titanium parts workshop is located in Baoji, widely recognised as China’s Titanium City. Baoji is the country’s largest production and research base for titanium and titanium alloys, as well as the only production base capable of manufacturing the full range of titanium materials.

The production workshop is located just one kilometre from Baotai Industry, China’s largest titanium material producer. In addition to manufacturing titanium materials, Baotai is one of the principal organisations responsible for developing China’s GB standards for titanium, and its laboratory is an accredited metal materials testing centre. Recognising the importance of material compliance, Sinwafix can provide EN 10204­3.1 certificates upon customer request.

Titanium material testing is typically carried out by internationally recognised third­party organisations, such as SGS or the Baotai Industrial Testing Centre, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of material data.

Titanium offers a combination of light weight, non­magnetic properties, high strength and excellent corrosion resis­

tance, making it suitable for a wide range of high­end applications. To ensure consistent product quality, Sinwafix follows a zero­defect quality management approach, implementing full­process control from raw materials through to finished products while maintaining complete product traceability.

A selection of commonly used product specifications is kept in stock, enabling the company to provide rapid delivery to customers.

Behind every product is Sinwafix’s commitment to standardised management, professional research and development, advanced manufacturing technologies and rigorous quality inspection. These strengths have enabled the company to earn widespread recognition across the industry. Looking ahead, Sinwafix remains committed to supporting customers with high­quality products, excellent service and a collaborative approach that delivers longterm mutual success. www.sinwafix.com

Sinwafix exports highquality titanium fasteners and special-shaped parts

RAPID INDUSTRIAL FASTENERS

UK MANUFACTURER & DISTRIBUTOR

Trusted ISO 9001 certified Manufacturer and Distributor of standard and custom-engineered components, backed by 52+ machines, £2M in stock, and national same-day to global delivery.

THINKING FASTENERS THINK RAPID

USING AI TO HELP MAKE BUSINESS DECISIONS

How can artificial intelligence be used by distributors and wholesalers to help make more confident business decisions? That was the topic of a recent webinar, hosted by Torque Magazine with Merlin Business Software at Aptean…

There can be few executives in the industry who’ve not considered how AI might be able to assist in their business operations. However, gleaning real world insights into how artificial intelligence can make a positive difference in day­to­day business is not necessarily easy when confronted with a glut of information and headlines on the topic.

That was the overall theme of a special webinar held in Q2, hosted by Torque Magazine and supported by Merlin Business Software from Aptean.

Kelly Stafford, Regional Account Manager at Aptean, and Ollie Wilson, Account Manager for Merlin ERP at Aptean, helped guide viewers through the topic, with ideas for distributors, wholesalers and business leaders who are looking to improve visibility, reduce their reactive decision­making and understand how AI can support their day­to­day operations.

“Distributors and merchants have never had more visibility into their operations dashboards, alerts, reports. Yet visibility alone hasn't solved the underlying problem. When a dashboard flags an issue, someone still has to interpret it, call a supplier, or build a spreadsheet. The bottleneck isn't the data; it's everything that happens after the alert fires.

“That's the shift AI needs to make: from showing you problems to helping you act on them. Not replacing people or expertise, but removing the friction between spotting an issue and doing something about it.

“The key distinction is between generic AI and vertical AI. Generic AI produces broad, cross­industry predictions that

still land as another report for a human to interpret. Vertical AI is trained on merchant and distributor data and embedded directly into everyday workflows – surfacing stock risks before they become stockouts, flagging eroding margins, escalating picking discrepancies instantly, and giving early warning of supplier delays ahead of busy periods.

“At Aptean, this is built into Merlin ERP through AppCentral and role­based AI agents – intelligence at the point of decision, not bolted on as a separate product.

“Crucially, adopting this doesn't require a leap of faith. The most effective approach is structured: start with high­impact, repeatable decisions; embed AI into existing workflows without disruption; measure what changes throughput, error rates, service levels; then scale with confidence.

“Visibility got the industry this far. The next stage of value comes from turning that visibility into action – practically, and at a pace that suits each business.”

Action points

What are the common questions that distributors and whole

salers tend to ask when integrating AI into their businesses? And how can they stay up to date with the latest developments in AI in business? Those were some of the action points and discussion areas covered in the webinar, which is available to rewatch online:

magazine.torque-expo.com/torque-merlin-webinar-2026

THE FASTENER MAKERS

STAINLESS STEEL FASTENING MADE EASY: HOW TOBI® SIMPLIFIES HANDLING AND STABILISES ASSEMBLY

EJOT provides an expert take on the challenges of assembly with stainless steel fasteners…

In stainless steel fastening, assembly challenges often begin long before torque is applied. Unlike conventional steel fasteners, stainless steel does not allow the use of magnetic bits, making reliable handling, positioning and retention significantly more difficult – particularly in automated or highvolume assembly environments. Dropped screws, misalignment and unstable pick­and­place behaviour can quickly compromise productivity and process reliability.

This makes the screw drive interface far more than just a torque­transmitting feature. It becomes a critical enabler for stable handling and precise positioning. While hexalobular systems have long been the industry standard, they offer limited support when it comes to secure tool engagement without magnetic assistance, leaving a clear gap in stainless steel applications.

The TOBI® Drive System directly addresses this challenge through its unique geometry, delivering a strong self­holding (“stick­fit”) capability that fundamentally simplifies handling. By ensuring secure retention between bit and screw, TOBI® enables stable pick­up, reliable transport and precise placement – even under demanding, non­magnetic conditions.

At the same time, TOBI® enhances process performance through improved axial alignment and increased contact surface, resulting in more uniform load distribution and reduced surface pressure. While these advantages are particularly impactful in stainless steel applications, they are equally beneficial for carbon steel fasteners and other materials, improving handling, process stability, and overall assembly efficiency across a wide range of use cases.

The result is a safer, simpler and more robust fastening process – with or without magnetic support.

FROM TORQUE TRANSMISSION TO PROCESS STABILITY

Traditional drive comparisons often focus on peak torque values. In practice, production engineers care just as much about repeatability over thousands – or hundreds of thousand – of cycles.

Bit wear, recess deformation and inconsistent engagement are among the most common causes of:

• unplanned line stoppages

• increased scrap and rework

• torque scatter at the end of tool life

In automated and semi­automated environments, even short tool changes disrupt cycle time and reduce overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). As a result, drive systems are increasingly evaluated not only on ultimate strength, but on how predictably they behave over time.

THE TOBI® DRIVE CONCEPT – GEOMETRY WITH INTENT

The TOBI® Drive System is a matched system consisting of the screw head recess and the corresponding bit. Its performance is based on a deliberately engineered geometry rather than increased material hardness or higher axial force during tightening.

Key

geometric features

• Large concave and small convex shape within the recess

These shapes increase the usable contact surface between bit and drive, reducing local stress peaks and surface pressure.

• Tapered geometry towards the top edge of the bit

This creates a controlled clamping effect, generating reliable self­retention of the screw on the tool.

• Axial self-alignment during bit insertion

The converging surfaces guide the bit into the recess, improving centring and reducing the risk of misalignment –particularly relevant in automated screw feeding.

WHAT THIS MEANS ON THE SHOP FLOOR

• Secure screw retention without magnetic or vacuum assistance

• Reliable engagement in overhead or hard­to­reach fastening points

• Improved handling in manual assembly through one­handed screw picking

• More stable engagement at higher tightening torques

• Reduced risk of fallen screws within inaccessible areas

APPLICABILITY ACROSS SCREW SIZES AND TYPES

An important practical aspect of the TOBI® Drive System is its broad applicability across fastener dimensions and screw types. TOBI® is available and can be implemented from micro screws through to large industrial fasteners, with drive sizes covering a wide range (from very small dimensions up to large­format screws). In addition to the standard sixlobe TOBI® variant, dedicated geometries exist for:

• very small and micro screws, where handling and alignment are particularly critical

• tamper­resistant applications, where controlled disassembly is required

From an application standpoint, the system is not limited to specific screw materials or head designs. TOBI® can be used with steel, stainless steel, aluminium and titanium fasteners, making it suitable for both magnetic and non­magnetic screw applications in mechanical engineering, automotive, electronics, appliance manufacturing and general industrial assembly.

The full performance benefits (including tool life, torque capacity and retention) are achieved when TOBI® screws are used with TOBI® bits

// Extending tool life is not just a tooling issue – it directly affects uptime, quality stability and total assembly cost //

For designers and production planners, this scalability means the drive concept can be applied consistently across an entire product platform, rather than being restricted to a narrow size range or niche application.

COMPATIBILITY WITHOUT LOCK-IN

From a service and maintenance perspective, TOBI® screws can be loosened and refastened using standard hexalobular bits of the same size. This ensures field compatibility and avoids dependency on special tools during repair or servicing. However, the full performance benefits – particularly tool life, torque capacity and retention – are only achieved when TOBI® screws are used with TOBI® bits, as the system is designed as a functional pair.

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON:

WHY TOOL LIFE DOMINATES THE EQUATION

Test data published by EJOT shows that TOBI® bits achieve:

• up to 60% higher ultimate torsional strength compared with standard hexalobular drives

• around 30% higher torsional strength compared with enhanced hexalobular designs

The improvement is attributed to a more uniform stress distribution within the bit, reducing peak loads that typically lead to premature fracture.

TOOL LIFE IN REAL NUMBERS

For a B25 drive size at 9 Nm tightening torque (typical for an M5 screw), the following comparative tool lives are reported:

Potential tenfold increase to bit life, torque dependent

Rather than a marginal improvement, these figures indicate a step change in durability under repetitive load.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRODUCTION AND

MANAGERS: REDUCED DOWNTIME

AUTOMATION

Fewer bit changes mean fewer line interruptions. In automated cells, this also reduces the frequency of torque reverification and process restarts.

Higher process reliability

Stable engagement lowers the risk of stripped recesses, incomplete seating and quality deviations – especially towards the end of conventional bit life.

Simplified

end effector design

Because TOBI® retains the screw mechanically, vacuum pick­up sleeves and compressed air systems can often be eliminated, reducing system complexity and maintenance effort.

SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH

SIMPLIFICATION

The sustainability contribution of a drive system lies primarily in efficiency gains rather than materials alone.

The TOBI® Drive System supports this by:

• reducing energy consumption through the elimination of vacuum retention

• extending tool life and lowering replacement frequency

• supporting non­magnetic fasteners without additional handling technology

In high­volume production, these effects accumulate quickly.

A NOTE FOR FASTENER MANUFACTURERS

TOBI® is offered as a licensable drive technology and is already integrated into the portfolios of multiple fastener and tooling manufacturers.

From a neutral technical perspective, licensing offers:

• drive level differentiation without sacrificing service compatibility

• alignment with end user demand for higher process capability

• the ability to deploy a single drive concept across a wide range of screw sizes and applications

As customers increasingly specify fastening solutions based on uptime, reliability and total cost of ownership, the drive system itself becomes a strategic design choice.

CONCLUSION: SMALL INTERFACE, SYSTEM-LEVEL IMPACT

The TOBI® Drive System demonstrates how targeted optimisation of the screw–bit interface can deliver measurable gains in torque capability, tool life and assembly reliability.

By rebalancing contact pressure, retention and axial alignment, TOBI® addresses fundamental limitations of conventional hexalobular drives – without increasing process complexity.

For engineers, it widens the safe operating window. For production managers, it reduces downtime risk. For purchasers, it strengthens the total cost argument.

In an industry often driven by incremental improvements, TOBI® shows that rethinking fundamentals can still unlock significant process gains.

https://tobidrive.com/en

EJOT Germany: Mario Braun +49 151 74451754

EJOT UK: Dan Lunn: +44 7966 444 805

JCP: BUILDING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR THE NEXT 25 YEARS

Celebrating its first quarter of a century, JCP Fixings has built its success on support and industry experience – the team collectively have more than 90 years in the fixings industry – while building a range of over 1,800 SKUs…

Reaching a 25­year milestone is no small achievement in the construction industry, yet for JCP Fixings, the journey from specialist supplier to one of the UK’s most recognised fixing brands has been built on a simple foundation: technical expertise, trusted products and unwavering support for distributors and installers alike.

Established in 2001 as the specialist fixings division of Owlett­Jaton, JCP Fixings has evolved into a major force within the UK construction fixings sector. Today, the business offers a comprehensive portfolio of anchoring and fastening solutions, supported by a technical infrastructure that has become one of its defining strengths.

From heavy­duty anchors and chemical fixings to specialist application systems, JCP’s product offering now exceeds 1,800 SKUs – establishing the brand among the leading names in the UK fixings market.

Built on experience

A major contributor to JCP’s success story has been the people behind the brand. In 2003, Nick Beardon joined the company as General Manager, bringing extensive industry experience and a clear vision for growth. Over more than two decades, he helped shape JCP into the respected technical brand it is today, overseeing significant expansion in both product range and market presence before stepping away from the business earlier this year.

Taking the reins is Reza Jafari, whose engineering and commercial credentials – including MEng, Executive MBA and MICE qualifications – position him strongly to lead the next phase of development. Supporting the technical direction of the company is Mehrdad Mirshokraei, whose civil engineering background and Master of Science degree from the Polytechnic University of Milan further reinforce JCP’s technical pedigree.

JCP’s Area Sales Managers (ASMs) continue to play a crucial role in the company’s reputation. Its four full­time ASMs not

only support distributors nationwide, but also carry out onsite visits, installation guidance, and certified testing services. Collectively, the team represents almost four decades with JCP, and more than 90 years of experience within the fixings industry – an invaluable resource for customers seeking practical, informed advice.

Technical support at the core

While product quality remains essential, JCP has long recognised that technical support is what truly differentiates a modern fixings supplier.

Its online technical resources have become increasingly sophisticated, providing distributors, contractors, and specifiers with immediate access to detailed product information and installation guidance. The company’s website has been designed with usability in mind, offering downloadable datasheets, installation instructions, and product­specific technical content through easily accessible QR codes integrated across the range.

Among the company’s offerings is the Anchor Calculation Program Pro suite – a professional software package developed to simplify anchor design and verification for engineers, contractors and specifiers.

The ACP module allows users to calculate anchoring solutions for cracked and non­cracked concrete applications, taking into account critical parameters such as spacing, edge distance, concrete thickness, load direction and substrate performance. Following calculation, the system suggests suitable JCP anchors and generates detailed PDF reports suitable for project documentation and approval processes.

Additional specialist modules covering railings, resin injection systems, rebar applications and ceiling installations have further expanded the platform’s capabilities, helping users access highly accurate technical data and supporting documentation with ease.

This investment in digital engineering support reflects the

increasing demand for traceability, compliance and specification accuracy across modern construction projects.

Engaged in standards and compliance

JCP has always recognised the importance of keeping pace with – and contributing to – the latest technical standardisation and regulatory requirements affecting the products it brings to market. Since 2008, the company has been a member of the European Consortium of Anchor Producers (ECAP), a fully self­funded group of small and medium­sized European manufacturers that work together to help shape the CE marking process for post­installed fasteners, timber connectors, powder­actuated tools and related components.

JCP has also recently joined the Construction Fixings Association (CFA) with the same aim. The CFA is primarily active in the UK, supporting manufacturers as well as specifiers, contractors, installers and testers to promote best practice on site and ensure fixings are selected and installed correctly.

Supporting installers on site

Technical support at JCP does not stop behind a desk. The company’s on­site testing services continue to provide installers and distributors with added reassurance when performance verification is required.

Whether supporting building regulation compliance or offering confidence in challenging substrate conditions, JCP’s experienced ASMs carry out testing and provide practical troubleshooting support directly on site.

One recent project highlighted the level of professionalism involved, with a JCP ASM conducting testing within a high­security aerospace facility. The visit required extensive pre­site safety procedures, including mandatory online inductions and additional on­site training before testing could commence. Once completed, a comprehensive site test report – including photographic evidence – was produced to document the installation and results.

Certified for confidence

As specification requirements become increasingly stringent across the construction industry, certified performance has become more important than ever. To meet these evolving demands, JCP Fixings continues to invest significant time, expertise and resources in obtaining and maintaining independent product certifications.

JCP’s portfolio includes a wide range of independently approved products, helping installers and specifiers meet the demands of modern building standards. Certifications and approvals across the range include CE marking, WRAS approval and multiple ETA accreditations, giving users confidence in both performance and compliance.

These approvals are clearly identified throughout the latest JCP catalogue, making product selection straightforward for distributors, contractors and engineers alike.

Looking ahead

While 25 years is a significant milestone, JCP Fixings shows no sign of slowing down. The business enters its next chapter with strong technical leadership, an expanding digital support platform, a continual review to expand the product range and a growing reputation for engineering expertise throughout the construction sector.

As construction methods evolve and specification demands continue to increase, the need for reliable technical support and proven fixing solutions will only become more critical. JCP’s ability to combine product performance with practical, handson expertise positions the company strongly for the future.

For distributors, contractors and specifiers alike, the message is clear: after a quarter of a century in the industry, JCP Fixings is not simply celebrating its past achievements – it is actively building the foundations for the next 25 years.

www.jcpfixings.co.uk

DRILL AND DRIVE SPECIALIST ARMEG LAUNCHES FIXTAINER PRO SET WITH FISCHER

Two companies have worked together on a “Drill, Drive, Fix” installation collaboration, aimed at professional electricians.

British drilling and driving expert Armeg cooperated with German fixing manufacturer fischer to launch a fully­loaded masonry solution, the ARMEG x FISCHER FIXTAINER PRO SET.

The set combines fischer’s DuoPower wall plugs in 6, 8 and 10mm sizes with corresponding Armeg Twister Impact Masonry Drill Bits, designed specifically for use with ever popular impact drivers.

Engineered and manufactured in Sheffield, the Twister Impact Masonry Drill Bits feature Armeg’s SQS Super Quick Spiral® flute technology, developed for rapid spoil removal to maximise drilling efficiency when used at the high rotational speeds generated by impact drivers.

Crucially each drill bit also incorporates a depth­stop matched to fischer DuoPower plug sizes, helping installers achieve consistent drilling depth and reducing the risk of under or over drilling.

fischer do screws as well of course: The FIXTAINER PRO SET also includes generous quantities of their countersunk and hex head safety screws, together with a selection of Armeg’s impact­rated driving accessories including Magnetic Collar Screwdriver Bits in PZ2 and T40 Torx, plus a 13mm Twister Magnetic Nut Driver.

To support onsite usability, the kit includes two Armeg Belt Loop Bit Holders, allowing commonly used drilling and driving accessories to be kept close to hand while working.

All components are supplied in fischer’s modular FIXTAINER case system for organised storage and to help users know when it’s time to restock bits and fixings

The ARMEG x FISCHER FIXTAINER PRO SET is available now through UK electrical wholesalers under part code AFDDFPROSET.

www.armeg.co.uk

STRUTBOLT operates through an internal expansion mechanism activated during installation

INDEX UNVEILS STRUTBOLT FOR HIGH-LOAD HOLLOW STEEL APPLICATIONS

INDEX has introduced STRUTBOLT, an expansion anchor designed for structural fixings in hollow steel sections.

STRUTBOLT operates through an internal expansion mechanism activated during installation, enabling it to be installed from a single side of the section. This simplifies assembly and eliminates the need for hot works or rear access.

The system allows metal­to­metal connections without the need for welding or through­bolting, providing an alternative solution for applications where access to the inside of the section is not possible.

Applications include structural steel connections, the fixing of metal profiles and installations in hollow sections subjected to high loads. It can be used in rectangular, square and circular hollow sections, provided there is sufficient space for proper expansion.

ETA­approved, STRUTBOLT is also available in two versions: hot­dip galvanised (HDG) for environments requiring high corrosion resistance and zinc­plated.

INDEX stated that the launch of STRUTBOLT expands its range of fastening solutions for steel structures, with a focus on installation efficiency and on­site safety.

www.indexfix.com

Long-Lasting Installation Tools & Automated Systems Designed For High Productivity & Volumes

PRODUCTION & QUALITY: FAR is one of the “solid” names in the manufacturing of blind rivets and rivnuts in Italy, Europe and worldwide. With its wide fleet of 125 machines dedicated to various outcomes for fastening, “production” and “quality” are two of the key words in FAR daily working operations. FAR is certified ISO 9001 and TUV and has been for many years.

100% made in Italy Bologna, Northern Italy

Total sqm 20,000 sqm

Total sqm covered 16,500 sqm

4 product categories

Rivets, Rivnuts, Tools & Automations

Rivets outcomes > 350,000,000 rivets/year

Rivnuts outcomes > 100,000,000 rivets/year

Tools & Automations > 50,000 units/year

Total employees 120

Market distribution 75+ countries

FAR is a strong brand in the United Kingdom and well­known for the reliability of its technologies. PART­ON TOOLS Ltd was founded and grew up alongside FAR and today operates as one of the most valuable FAR Authorised Distributor & Tool Repair Centre. At its Birmingham headquarters, it has a FAR technology showroom where applications for rivets and inserts can be tested. FAR is now an accredited Official Supplier to some of the UK’s automotive manufacturers and OEM. PART­ON TOOLS provides high­value technical services to all end users in the UK, as well as repair support and consultancy to system integrators and other Distributors. Training courses for Repair Centres worldwide are regularly supplied from Bologna headquarters.

EXTENSIVE STOCKS: the company is able to deliver its portfolio everywhere in just a few days, either by truck, sea or air. Large volumes of products are available both at the HQ in Bologna and at Distributors’ warehouses internationally. DEMONSTRATIONS of tools & automations are now promoted in several markets through local FAR showrooms activated in main markets like in Germany, France, UK, Poland, USA, Canada and in Oceania and at main exhibitions. If you’re interested in becoming a part of FAR’s Partner International Network, please contact FAR Export Management.

CONSULTANCY: FAR is one of the few leading fastening players with cross­competences in manufacturing different categories of technologies under the same roof, such as: quality fasteners and installation tools and automated systems. It targets Distributors & Dealers, as well as System Integrators and “high level” end­user Manufacturers.

‘Made in Italy’ means that FAR Bologna is FAR’s only manufacturing facility, this enables FAR to control productions & processes from one Italian hub. www.far.bo.it

NORTH AMERICA’S FASTENER SHOWCASE

The IFE 2026 will bring together thousands of fastener professionals for three days of exhibitions, sourcing and technical learning – this time in Phoenix…

The International Fastener Expo (IFE) 2026 will take place at the Phoenix Convention Centre, Halls 1–4, in Phoenix, Arizona, with the IFE Summit taking place on 7 October, followed by the exhibition on 8­9 October 2026.

The event, with the new theme The Power Behind the Build, is expected to bring together more than 4,000 fastener industry professionals from over 33 countries, alongside more than 20 hours of educational sessions, offering attendees extensive networking and learning opportunities.

The IFE 2026 will attract executives from across the supply chain, including distributors, manufacturers, engineers and senior decision­makers. Attendees can discover new products and technologies, build business relationships, explore market trends and identify new commercial opportunities.

SourceGlobal, located within the International Fastener Expo (IFE), provides a dedicated platform for connecting US buyers with international manufacturers without the need for overseas travel. Bringing together more than 350 factories from key sourcing regions, the exhibition enables distributors, importers and sourcing professionals to meet suppliers face­to­face, evaluate product quality and strengthen their supply chains.

SourceGlobal offers manufacturers direct access to the US market, connecting them with more than 4,000 industry professionals from sectors including construction, aerospace, automotive, electronics and defence. The exhibition showcases a broad range of products and services, including fasteners, production machinery, tooling, inspection and testing equipment, packaging solutions, plant maintenance products and

specialist fastening technologies.

Major sourcing regions represented at SourceGlobal include China, India, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Europe, making it one of the largest international sourcing platforms for the fastener industry.

New for 2026, the International Fastener & Assembly Summit (IFAS) will debut alongside the International Fastener Expo, offering two dedicated conference tracks tailored to different industry needs. The Strategic Programme, hosted on the main stage, will feature senior executives from leading organisations including General Motors, Toyota, Ford, Timken, Yaskawa Motoman, Zimmer Biomet and the US Air Force Research Laboratory. Sessions will explore topics such as AIdriven manufacturing, supply chain resilience, automation, risk management and zero­defect quality, providing practical strategies for business leaders.

Running concurrently, the Technical Programme, led by the Fastener Training Institute, will focus on engineering and manufacturing challenges through expert­led breakout sessions. Topics include joint design, preload control, failure analysis, hydrogen embrittlement, corrosion, quality systems, international standards and risk management. Built around real­world case studies, the summit aims to equip attendees with practical knowledge and actionable solutions to improve manufacturing performance and product quality.

The International Fastener & Assembly Summit (IFAS) is designed for senior decision­makers and technical professionals responsible for fastening and assembly operations. The

event will bring together C­level executives, engineering directors, manufacturing leaders, procurement and supply chain specialists, quality and regulatory professionals, automation and digital manufacturing experts, as well as R&D and product development managers.

Representing industries including automotive, aerospace, defence, construction, electronics, MedTech and semiconductors, attendees will have the opportunity to exchange knowledge, discuss industry challenges and explore the latest technologies shaping advanced manufacturing.

The 2026 International Fastener Expo will once again host the Fastener Hall of Fame and the Young Fastener Professional of the Year Award. The Hall of Fame recognises individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the global fastener industry, while the Young Fastener Professional

of the Year Award celebrates emerging talent that has demonstrated outstanding achievements early in their careers. Winners will be honoured during a special ceremony at the exhibition and presented with commemorative plaques in recognition of their contributions to the industry.

Last year's International Fastener Expo was held at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas from 15 to 17 September, featuring more than 700 booths from 19 countries.

Since 1981, the event has continued to bring together manufacturers and master distributors of fasteners, precisionformed parts, fastener machinery and tooling, and other related products and services with distributors and sales agents from across the supply and distribution chain. fastenershows.com

PREDICTING THE UNPREDICTABLE: VIBRATION-INDUCED SELF-LOOSENING OF THREADED FASTENERS

Norm Fasteners R&D Director Umut İnce discusses the importance of preload and the role of fastener design in mitigating the loss of preload under vibration, impact and fluctuating temperature...

Threaded fasteners are often called the “rice of industry”: small, even inconspicuous, yet responsible for holding together almost everything from automobiles and aircraft to bridges and machinery. Their function depends entirely on preload, the clamping force generated at tightening. The trouble is that, once assembled, bolts tend to shed this preload on their own under vibration, impact or fluctuating temperature. Because loosening has been linked to serious field failures, preload retention is a primary safety concern, not a detail.

What makes loosening one of the most difficult and least predictable problems in fastener engineering is that many interacting variables govern it at once. Gerhard Junker’s landmark 1969 study showed that transverse (lateral) vibration is the dominant driver of self­loosening. However, whether a particular fastener will loosen and how quickly it will do so depends on many factors, such as the geometric characteristics of the fastener components, the materials of the assembly components, static and dynamic friction conditions, assembly parameters, and static and dynamic loading conditions. Worse, loosening can begin under micro­slip, well before the joint reaches the classical critical­slip displacement.

Precisely because of this complexity, the analytical explanation of loosening has attracted intense interest from the scientific community over the past sixty years. To explain when rotation begins and how the preload decreases, researchers have proposed critical transverse force criteria, microslip and local slip models, as well as energy­based formulations. A standardised Junker test, such as DIN 65151, is used to measure this behaviour. In this test, a fastener under preload is subjected to a constant transverse displacement, and the decrease in clamp force is monitored cycle by cycle; this allows for direct comparison of components under different bolted assembly conditions.

Norm Fasteners R&D has contributed to this body of knowledge at the level of academic literature. The parameter adaptive analytical model published by İçmez, İnce and Enser predicts bolt and nut loosening rate under transverse vibration through an energy­equilibrium approach: the torsional strain energy stored in the bolt is balanced against the kinetic energy released once the applied torque exceeds the critical threshold, yielding the rotation per cycle and hence the loss of clamp force. it was validated against

Junker tests and reproduced the measured loosening trends well.

SteadiBolt® is one of the practical products resulting from this accumulated knowledge. It features an optimised undercut design that converts tightening torque into a strong mechanical lock; the directional ramp angles create a self­reinforcing locking effect under vibration. In a comparative Junker test, it was demonstrated that while the SteadiBolt® flange bolt maintained its preload nearly constant throughout the test, a DIN 6921 flange bolt loosened within the first few cycles, and a competing serrated­design bolt rapidly lost its clamping force.

normfasteners.com

References

[1] C. İçmez, U. İnce, S. Enser, “Analytical Prediction and Experimental Validation of Bolt Self-Loosening under Vibration,” Eur. J. Res. Dev. (Norm Fasteners R&D).

[2] H. Gong, J. Liu, H. Feng, “Review on anti-loosening methods for threaded fasteners,” Chin. J. Aeronaut. 35(2):47–61, 2022.

[3] G. Junker, SAE 690055, 1969 — Junker test / DIN 65151 & ISO 16130 (Bossard; Vibrationmaster).

Comparative Junker Tests of SteadiBolt®

SHEET METAL INNOVATION TAKES CENTRE STAGE

This year’s EuroBLECH will debut the Innovation Zone and host a dedicated conference programme featuring expert presentations and panels…

EuroBLECH 2026, the 28th International Sheet Metal Working Technology Exhibition, will take place over 20­23 October 2026 at the Hanover Exhibition Grounds in Germany.

Recognised as one of the world's leading exhibitions for sheet metal working technology, EuroBLECH brings together manufacturers, suppliers and industry professionals from across the global supply chain. Covering the entire sheet metal processing value chain, the event provides a platform for showcasing the latest technologies, exchanging technical expertise and developing new business opportunities.

The exhibition will occupy Halls 11­17 and 27, featuring a comprehensive range of products, machinery and solutions for the sheet metal working industry.

This year’s show will debut the Innovation Zone, showcasing the technologies driving efficiency, precision and competitiveness, alongside live machinery, new product launches and realworld demonstrations taking place across exhibitor stands.

The zone’s emphasis on advanced manufacturing reflects the industry’s ongoing demand for greater efficiency, flexibility and resilience, bringing together technologies such as automation, digital production systems and precision engineering. To ensure a strong focus on the latest developments, only technologies launched between 1 November 2025 and 20 October 2026 will be featured. With two participation formats, Showcase Podiums and Discovery Panels, companies can present their solutions through physical displays or visual storytelling, depending on their application.

“EuroBLECH has always been a platform where the future of sheet metal working comes into focus,” says Evelyn Warwick, Exhibition Director for EuroBLECH on behalf of RX. “With the Innovation Zone, we are placing advanced manufacturing technologies firmly at the heart of the visitor experience. It is about making advanced manufacturing developments more accessible, more visible and more actionable for the global manufacturing community.”

The EuroBLECH Awards will once again recognise outstanding technical innovation across the sheet metal working industry. Six winners will be honoured for excellence in Advanced Manufacturing Software & AI, Automation & Smart Factory, Sustainable & Resource­Efficient Production, Cutting Technologies, Forming Technologies & Tooling, and Joining, Surface Treatment & Quality Control.

Additionally, the new NextGen Technology Stage in Hall 27 will host a dedicated conference programme featuring expert presentations and panel discussions on topics including smart manufacturing, sustainable production, workforce development and productivity.

Rivit’s RIV920 and RIV930 hydro-pneumatic riveting tools will debut at the show

New for 2026, the Job Shop & Subcontractors Market will provide a dedicated area where fabrication centres and subcontract manufacturers can connect with OEMs and other manufacturers seeking flexible, high­quality outsourcing partners.

The exhibition will also introduce Automotive Guided Tours, offering structured routes designed specifically for automotive OEMs to help them identify relevant technologies and suppliers. These will complement the returning Guided Tours, which support targeted, high­value visits across the exhibition.

EuroBLECH 2024 welcomed 1,317 exhibitors and 38,946 trade visitors from 114 countries, occupying a gross exhibition space of 160,000 m2. These figures reinforce the event’s continued importance as a truly global meeting point for sheet metal working professionals. With 81% of visitors involved in purchasing decisions and a high proportion actively seeking new suppliers or partners, the exhibition continues to deliver measurable business value for participants.

Gesipa

At stand 16­H12, Gesipa will showcase its latest blind riveting solutions for industrial applications.

A key exhibit will be the GAV Neo blind riveting machine, designed for automated production lines. Engineered for high setting rates, the fully electric system reliably processes larger­diameter blind rivets while reducing maintenance requirements and energy consumption. Its compact design also enables straightforward integration into existing manufacturing environments.

AFFORDABLE PERFORMANCE

With the RIV920 and RIV930, Rivit continues to offer high-performance, reliable and competitive solutions for fastening professionals.

SHOW PREVIEW

EUROBLECH 2026

Gesipa’s GAV Neo blind riveting machine is designed for automated production lines

Watch the birdie: EuroBLECH visitors should head to Gesipa’s stand to see the brand’s FireBirdie battery powered blind rivet nut setting tool for mobile applications

Gesipa will also present automated blind riveting and process monitoring solutions that support the integration of blind riveting into serial production. The systems enable the monitoring, control and documentation of individual joining operations, helping manufacturers maintain consistent process quality and identify deviations at an early stage through advanced interface and control technologies.

Also on display will be the FireBirdie battery­powered blind rivet nut setting tool for mobile applications. Designed for flexible use, the compact tool enables the efficient installation of blind rivet nuts, even in confined assembly environments.

Rivit

At stand 16­G04, Rivit will showcase its latest fastening technologies, including a new range of smart hydro­pneumatic riveting tools and its advanced ControlRiv GEN3 process control system.

Making their exhibition debut are the RIV920 and RIV930 hydro­pneumatic riveting tools, designed for installing threaded rivet nuts up to M8 and M12 respectively. The RIV930 delivers a setting force of up to 30.6 kN, compared with 20.7 kN for the RIV920. Both tools feature a lightweight, compact design and single­stage operation to improve ease of use while providing an accessible entry point into Rivit's professional range of hydro­pneumatic riveting tools.

Also on display will be ControlRiv GEN3, the latest generation of Rivit's process control system for real­time monitoring and traceability of fastening operations. Designed to support manufacturers focused on quality assurance and digitalised production, the system helps maintain high process standards

while reducing errors and production costs.

Through its participation at EuroBLECH, Rivit aims to strengthen relationships with its existing partners while expanding its international distribution network. The company currently operates in more than 65 countries worldwide.

ControlRiv GEN3 is a process control system for realtime monitoring

“EuroBLECH has always been a key event for our sector, and for Rivit it represents a valuable opportunity to meet the partners we have been working with for years, gather feedback directly from the market, and develop new business opportunities at an international level,” says Francesco Montanari, CEO of Rivit.

www.euroblech.com

REGULAR FEATURES

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

WOMEN IN FASTENERS & TOOLS

APPRENTICE Q&As

2026 FEATURES

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER issue 107 PRINT EDITION

Fastener manufacturing special

Stainless steel fixings and fasteners

Torque tools, technology & bolting

Wire & fastener cold heading

Building & Construction > Anchors

TERRITORY FOCUS > North America

SHOW PREVIEW > Taiwan Hardware Show

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

issue 108

TERRITORY FOCUS > Turkey

Inspection & quality

Structural engineering & structural fasteners

Rivets, rivet tools and rivet technology

IT services, software and e-business

Workwear, PPE and safety

Sustainability > ISO 14001 certification, recyclable packaging, etc

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER issue 109 PRINT EDITION

C-parts, logistics and Kanban

Production line tools (rivet guns, assembly tools, torque wrenches, etc.)

Battery technology & smart tools

Automotive fasteners & tools

Surface treatment and coatings

Industry and Trade Associations Wrap up

Security fasteners

Torque Rising Stars

Building & Construction > Adhesives, tapes, sealants and fillers

SHOW PREVIEW > BAU Munich

GenetiQ

n Stock & inventory management

n Customisation and personalisation

n Sales and order management

n Integration and connectivity

n Business intelligence and reporting

T 01443 878 879

E info@genetiqsoftware.com

W www.genetiqsoftware.com

GenetiQ (formerly Intact) builds cloud ERP for merchants, wholesalers and distributors who expect more from their systems. GenetiQ Cloud is modern, intuitive and browser-based, giving you real-time margin, stock and sales insight where it matters. Your team can adapt screens, workflows and automation to fit how you work. It connects easily, scales with you, and is implemented by experts with 30+ years’ industry experience, giving you control, clarity and confidence for what your business needs next.

DIRECTORY SPOTLIGHTS

JIAXING XC WASHER CO.,LIMITED

n Flat Washer

n Conical Spring Washer/Belleville Washer

n Spring Lock Washer

n Tooth Lock Washer

n Special Washer

T +86-573-84956182

E jeremy@xcwasher.com

W www.xcwasher.com

Since 2002, XC Washer & Stamping has manufactured standard and hardened flat washers, special washers and metal stampings. With strong fastener expertise, in-house tool and die resources, over 80 automatic CNC presses and inspection facilities for hardness and finish, we produce custom parts from drawings or samples. Customers choose us for quality products, competitive prices, reliable delivery, good credit and responsive service.

TO PROMOTE YOUR PRODUCTS TO OVER 10,000 INDUSTRY DECISION MAKERS

Torque Directory offers a cost-effective platform to promote your business all year round in both print and digital issues of Torque Magazine (published 10 times a year, reaching an audience of over 10,000 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 £750 / €850 for the year

Abbott Fasteners Ltd

n Stocked Imperial & Metric

n All metal locking nuts including Vargal Philidas Stover

n Largest stock of Genuine Helicoils in the UK

T +44 (0) 1268 532 434

E sales@abbottfasteners.co.uk

W www.abbottfasteners.co.uk

ACE FIXINGS

n Power Tools & Accessories

n Fixings, Fasteners & Hardware

n Supplier of EXP88 Nails & Cartridges

n Sealants, Foams & Adhesives

n Hand Tools & Site Equipment

T +44 (0) 28 2564 9323

E sales@acefixings.com

W www.acefixings.com

Achilles Seibert

n Torx screws/bolts

n Hexagon socket screws/bolts

n Hexagon head screws/bolts

n Special/drawing parts

T +49 4193 8955

E sales@achill-fasteners.com

W www.achill-fasteners.com

ADI Supply Ltd

n Resin anchors

n Shield anchors

n Through bolts

n Window frame screws

n CFA approved tester

E sales@adisupply.co.uk

W www.adisupply.co.uk

Albert Pasvahl

n Fit Bolts

n Plugs

n Brass

n Knurled thumb screws

n Special scews

T +49 [0] 40-532852-0

E info@pasvahl.de

W www.pasvahl.de

Ambrovit Bolts + Screws

n Carpentry wood screws

n Carpentry wood spacer screws

n Carpentry wood terrace screws

T + 39 (0)382 810280

E sales@ambrovit.it

W www.ambrovit.com

Apex Stainless Fasteners Ltd

n Stainless steel fasteners & fixings

n Aerotight nut

n Stainless steel screws/nuts

n Stainless steel washers

T +44 (0) 1788 537979

E sales@apexstainless.com

W www.apexstainless.com

Arma Fixing Systems

n Hose and pipe clamps

n Locking type P clamps

n Ear clamps

n Metal clips and brackets

n Plastic and metal fasteners

T +90 212 549 57 31-32

E expo@armafixing.com

W www.armafixing.com

Avon Stainless Fasteners

n Marine products

n Stainless fasteners

n Stainless steel semi-standard

T +44 (0) 117 972 8560

E sales@avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk

W www.avonstainlessfasteners.co.uk

Boltight Ltd

n Hydraulic bolt tensioning systems

n Multi-stud and multi-bolt tensioning systems

n Subsea and offshore tensioners

n Power generation tensioning solutions

n Hydraulic pumps, hoses, and accessories

T +44 1922 669222

E enquiries.boltight.uk@nord-lock.com

W www.nord-lock.com/en-gb

Chin Tai Sing Precision Manufactory

n Brass Insert

n Clinching Metal Fasteners

n CNC Components

n Automotive Components

n Electronic Components

T 886-4-26367001

E inquiry@ctsp-insert.com.tw

W www.ctsp-insert.com.tw

Fürniss GmbH

n Imperial Screws

n Bolts

n Screws

n Aerospace Standard

n latches

T +49 7247954400

E info@fuerniss.de

W https://fuerniss.de/en

BOMET UK LTD.

n Threaded rods

n Threaded studs

n Studding

n Allthread studs

T +32 (0) 11 55 91 14

E Sales.UK@bomet.com

W www.Bomet.com

Deligo

n Wedge nuts

n Channel nuts

n Wire suspension systems

n Heavy and light duty fixings

n Electrical accessories

T +44 (0) 1384 824100

E sales@deligo.co.uk W www.deligo.co.uk

Gesipa SFS Group Germany GmbH

n Blind rivets

n Blind rivet nuts

n Automatic riveting

n Blind rivet tools

n Setting process control

T +49 (0) 6105 962 0

E info@gesipa.com

W www.gesipa.com

Brighton Best International

n Hex Head Bolts/Sets 931/933

n Socket Screws

n Dowel Pins

n Stainless Fasteners

n Washers/Nuts

T +44 (0) 1384 568 144

E sales@brightonbest.org

W www.brightonbest.co.uk

Eurotec GmbH

n Deck construction and landscaping

n Timber engineering

n Wood construction screws

n Wood connectors

n System connections for cross laminated timber structures

T +49 2331 6245-0

E info@eurotec.team W www.eurotec.team

Global Fasteners Limited

n Bolts & nuts

n Security screws

n Woodscrews

n Machine screws

n PPE

T +44 (0) 1384 480793

E sales@global-fasteners.co.uk

W www.globalfasteners.co.uk

BÄCKER GmbH & Co. KG

n Standard elements

n Control elements

n Connecting elements

n fixing elements

n Screws & nuts made of plastic

T +49 2753 5950-0

E info@baecker.eu

W www.baecker.eu

Çetin Cıvata Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.

n Hex and socket head bolts

n Nuts and female parts

n Screws

n Weld studs

n Pins and rivets

T 00 90 212 778 11 00

E info@cetin.com.tr

W www.cetin.com.tr

FIXI Srl

n Threaded Inserts

n Blind Rivets

n Self-Clinching Fasteners

n Welding Studs

n Brass Inserts

T +39 011.7072398

E info@fixi.it W www.fixi.it

Goebel Group

n Blind Rivets

n Blind Rivet Nuts

n Rivet Setting Tools

n 18V Cordless Riveting Tools

n Lockbolts

T +49211-245000-0

E info@goebel-group.com W www.goebel-group.com

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

COST: Only

SPECIAL PRINT EDITORIAL EXPOSURE (PROFILE)

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

GWR Fasteners

Grand Metal Manufacturing GMM

n Clinch & sheet metal fasteners

n Self-clinching nuts, standoff, studs

n Welding studs & standoff

n Cage nut, rivet bushes, rivet nuts

n Brass inserts for plastic

T +86-139-2920-4841

E enquiry@grandametal.com

W www.grandametal.com

Halfmann Schrauben GmbH

n DIN/EN/ISO Standard Articles

n Stainless steel fasteners

n Plugs and anchors

n Construction bolting assemblies

n Fasteners with various coatings

T +49 (0)201 36484-0

E info@halfmann-schrauben.de

W www.halfmann-schrauben.de

JIMMORE International Corp.

n Torque Screwdriver

n Torque Adapter

n Interchangeable System

n 30% Higher Reversible Torque

n Low MOQ & Custom Design

T +886-4-2260-5352

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

Güde GmbH

n Spring lock washers

n Sperrkant washers

n Sperrkant spring washers

n Contact washers

n Conical washers

T 0049 2391 9190-0

E info@guede.net

W www.guede.net

IVT Verbindungselemente GmbH

n Weld screws

n Weld studs

n Special parts

T +49 2394 911 007

E info@i-vt.de

W www.i-vt.de

Joker Industrial Co., Ltd.

n Concrete screw (ETA approval)

n Cavity & plasterboard fixing

n Blind Jack nut

n Hammer-in & frame fixing

n Hollow wall anchor setting tools

T +886-4-7580187

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

n Stainless & High Tensile Fasteners & Fixings

n Captive Screws & Washers

n Aluminium Fasteners

n Spacers / Stand-off Collars

n Bar Materials

T +44 (0)1691 654979

E sales@gwr-fasteners.co.uk

W www.gwr-fasteners.co.uk

JET FAST COMPANY LIMITED

n Rubber Nut-Insert

n Metal Rivet Nut

n Nylon Nut-Insert

T +886-7-3740160

E jetfast@ms34.hinet.net

W www.jetfast.com.tw

Hafren Fasteners

n Security fasteners & fixings

n Bespoke special security fasteners

n Security fastener tooling & accessories

n Security fencing bolts

T +44 (0)1686 621 300

E info@hafrenfasteners.com

W www.hafrenfasteners.com

K-Engineering

n Allthread 1Mtr/3Mtr/3Ft

n Washers

n Nuts

n Cup square

n Roofing bolts

T +44 (0) 1922 749 350

E info@k-engineering.co.uk

W www.k-engineering.co.uk

Jiaxing Goodway Hardware

n Cold forming parts

n Hot forging parts

n CNC machining parts

n Stamping parts & Casting parts

n Metal injection moulding parts

T +86-573-82765508

E jackchang@goodway-fastener.com

W www.goodway-fastener.com

Keller & Kalmbach GmbH & Co. KG

n Fasteners & Fixings

n C-Parts & Kanban Systems

n Drawing Parts

n 3D Printing

n Tools & Safety Equipment

T +49 89 8395-0

E info@keller-kalmbach.com

W www.keller-kalmbach.com

Kebrell

n Commercial fasteners & fixings

n Automotive fasteners

n Flange joint sets

n Specials to drawing

n 20,000 tonnes of stock

T +44 (0) 121 526 6049

E kebrell@kebrell.co.uk

W www.kebrell.co.uk

KINGWIN PRECISION CO.,LTD.

n Punches

n Molds

n Forming Tools

n Machining Parts

n Accessories

T +886-7-6967721

E service@kingwin.tw

W www.kingwin.tw

Lederer GmbH

n Stainless steel fasteners

n Special parts by drawing

n C-parts management

T +49/2333/8309-0

E info@lederer-online.com

W www.lederer-online.com

MATATAKITOYO TOOL CO., LTD.

n Torque Tester

n Digital Torque Wrench

n Torque Wrench

n Torque Screwdriver

n Torque Multiplier

T +886-4-2533-5893

E matatakitoyo@gmail.com

W www.matatakitoyo.com

Metabo (UK) Ltd

n 12 Volt cordless tools

n 18 Volt cordless tools

n 18V Garden tools

n Building trade and renovation

n Metal craft and industry

T +44 (0) 2380 732000

E info@metabo.co.uk

W www.metabo.co.uk

NE Fasteners Ltd

n Furniture Fasteners

n Woodscrews

n Kitting

n Decking Screws

n Drywall Screws

T +44 (0)121 559 8866

E nefasteners@aol.com

W www.nefasteners.co.uk

Nylon Fasteners Ltd (Nyfast)

n Threaded Fasteners

n Washers & Spacers

n PCB & LED Fasteners

n Snap Rivets & Panel Fasteners

n Cable Clips & Clamps

T +44 (0) 1256 533 088

E sales@nyfast.co.uk

W www.nyfast.com

OGL Software

n Profit4: Innovative ERP software for UK merchants, distributors & wholesalers

n Software that connects all areas of your business

n Cloud & browser-based solution

n In-house UK support & development teams

T 01299 873873

E software@ogl.co.uk

W www.ogl.co.uk

Optimas

n OptiSpec: Bill of Materials Management Solution

n Engineered Fastening Solutions

n OptiTech Inventory Managed Solutions

n C-Class Components

n Fastener Manufacturing

n Standard Fasteners

n Tunnelling Solutions

E engage@optimas.com

W www.optimas.com

pgb-Europe nv

n Bolts & Nuts

n Wood, chipboard and decking

screws

n Light duty anchors

n Heavy duty anchors

n Chemical anchors

T +32 9 272 70 70

E info@pgb-europe.com W www.pgb-europe.com

SCHRODER

Peter Schröder GmbH

n Inch Sized Fasteners

n USA Fastener

n MS – AN – Na

n ASTM Standards

n Special Screws and Parts

T +49 713299600

E info@schroederschrauben.de

W www.schroederschrauben.de

Alexander Paal GmbH

n Disc Springs

n Shim Washer

n Retaining Ring

n Snap Ring

n Serrated Lock washers

T +49 (0)2191 906-0

E info@paal.de

W www.paal.de

PEARSON INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.

n Auto Rivets for the locking parts

n Anchor Rivet bush nuts

n Self-clinching fasteners

n Fasteners for automotive parts

n Sheet metal fasteners

T +886-3-212-1160

E pearson8@ms29.hinet.net

W www.pearson-clinch.com.tw

pgb-Polska

n Light duty plastic fixings

n Insulation fixings

n Mechanical anchors

n Chemical anchors

n Wood and self-drilling screws

T +48 (32) 330 26 10

E biuro@pgb-polska.com W www.pgb-polska.com

F. REYHER Nchfg. GmbH & Co. KG

n Special fasteners for automotive & agriculture industry

n DIN/ISO/EN standard articles

n Stainless steel fasteners

n Plugs and anchors

n Construction bolting assemblies

n Fasteners with various coatings

T +49 40 853 630

E mail@reyher.de

W www.reyher.de

San Shing Fastech Corp.

n Tools for All Formings

n Profile Dies & Punches

n Progressive Stamping Tooling

n Custom Rubber Molds

n Advanced Precision Components

T +886-6-2309949

E machine.tool@mail.sanshing.com.tw W www.sanshing.com.tw

Pühl GmbH & Co. KG

n Washers

n Conical spring washers

n Special parts

n Parts acc. drawing

n Split pins DIN 94

T +49 2391-8107-0

E sales@puehl.de W www.puehl.de

S&P

n Design software for anchoring

n Structural timbers

n Installation systems

n Reinforced concrete

T +49 341 4424610

E info@sup-scs.de

W www.sup-scs.de

Rapid Industrial Fasteners

n Special fasteners and turned parts manufacturer

n Duplex fasteners

n Rapid manufacturing lead-times

n Galvanised Threaded Bar

n Galvanised Nuts, Bolts and Washers

T +44 (0) 121 501 3903

E manufacturing@rapidfast.co.uk

W www.rapidfast.co.uk

Schäfer + Peters GmbH

n Screws

n Nuts

n Washers

n Bolts

n Stainless steel

T +49(0)7941 6094-0

E info@schaefer-peters.com W www.schaefer-peters.com

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

COST: Only

SPECIAL PRINT EDITORIAL EXPOSURE (PROFILE)

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

Shaanxi Sinwa Int’L

n Titanium fasteners

n Aluminum fasteners

n Ni, Zr702, Zr705, Hastelloy parts

n Drill bits & Taps

n Drawing parts, Special designs

T +86 29 8928 9105

E sales@sinwafix.com

W www.sinwafix.com

Sinto AGTOS GmbH

n Surface technology

n Blasting machines

n Pretreatment

T +49 (0)2572 960260

E info@agtos.de

W www.agtos.com

SUNCO INDUSTRIES JAPAN

n Metric fasteners

n Many kinds of rare-size fasteners

n Many kinds of SEMS screws

n Hexagon socket head cap screws

n Many kinds of materials screws

T +81 6-6539-3560

E export@sunco.co.jp

W www.jisscrew.com

Tite-Fix Ltd

n Construction & Engineering Screws

n Decking Screws

n Screw-Tite Multi-Purpose

Screws

n Specialist & Bespoke Screws

T +44 (0) 1756 699 996

E sales@tite-fix.co.uk

W www.tite-fix.co.uk

Universal Precision Screws (UPS Lakshmi)

n Shoulder Screw

n Pins

n Cylinder head bolts

n High temp application fasteners

n Piston pins

T +91 1262 205110

E amit@upsind.com

W www.upsind.com

Nord-Lock Group

n Mechanical multi-jackbolt tensioners

n Flange tensioning solutions

n Turbine and power generation bolting systems

n High-load and critical joint tensioners

n Tensioner installation and maintenance tooling

T +44 1264 355557

E enquiries@nord-lock.com

W www.nord-lock.com/en-gb

TOBSTEEL GmbH

n High corrosion resistant fasteners & fixings

n Stainless steel A2, A4, 1.4571, 1.4462, 1.4529

n 1.4462 (DUPLEX), 1.4529 (HCR)

n DIN 125, 127, 439, 912, 931, 933, 934, 976, 980, 985, 1587, 6334, 7991

T +49 (0) 7941 6073-0

E info@tobsteel.com

W www.tobsteel.com

Victory Fasteners Limited

n Un threaded blanks

n 10.9/12.9 Hex Bolt/Set

n Din 6921 / ISO 4162 Hex Flge

n Hardened Washers Din 6916/F436

n B7/L7 European Bolting

T +44 (0)1902 544 480

E sales@victoryfasteners.com

W www.victoryfasteners.com

Smith Bullough

n Blanks and finished stock

n Metric and inch in all grades

n Non standard bolting

n Special forgings

n Stainless and special alloys

T +44 (0)1942 520250

E sales@smithbullough.com

W www.smithbullough.com

Taiwan Precision Fastener Co., Ltd.

n Patented Wood Screw

n Wood Screw

n Mill Point Self-Drilling Screw

n Self-Drilling Screw

T +886-7-616-2089

E sales@tpf-screw.com.tw sales@taiwan-precisionfastener.com

W taiwan-precision-fastener.com

DEEPAK FASTENERS LIMITED

n Socket Head Shoulder Screws & Dowel Pins

n Tension Control Structural Bolt

n Studbolts / Threaded Rods

n Locpin

n Stainless Steel Fasteners

T +91 161 713 1111, 513 1111

E sales@deepakfasteners.com W https://unbrako.com

Volt Industrial Plastics

n

n

n

n

n

T +1 (870) 449-8027

W www.voltplastics.com

SPIROL

n Coiled Spring Pins

n Inserts for Plastic

n Compression Limiters

n Disc Springs

n Shims

T +44 (0) 1536 444800

E info-uk@spirol.com

W www.spirol.com

The Insert Company (UK) Limited

n Zinc alloy inserts

n Steel inserts

n Brass threaded inserts

n Furniture connectors

n Special turned parts

T +44 (0) 121 4397329

E sales@theinsertcompany.com

W www.theinsertcompany.com

UNION FASTENERS

n Hexagon Bolts/Blanks All Grades

n F436/6916 Metric Washers

n Turned Parts

n Bespoke Exotic Special Fasteners

n In House Forging

T +44 (0) 121 526 6010

E sales@union-fasteners.com

W www.union-fasteners.com

YESWIN MACHINERY CO., LTD.

n 3-7 Dies Progressive Headers

n 3,4,5 Dies Bolt Forming Machines

n 5,6,7 Dies Bolt Parts Former

n 5,6

Dies Nut Parts Former

n Cold Forging Machines for all fastener parts

T +886-6-2729939

E yeswin@twyeswin.com

W www.twyeswin.com