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Gelcoats and structural adhesives capacity to be expanded Scott Bader Europe Composites Division has recently made capital investments in the region of €1 million to expand the gelcoats and structural adhesives mixer capacity of its UK and French plants. Two new mixers have been installed and are now fully operational.
In Amiens, France, an additional large volume gelcoat mixer has been installed. The new mixer has provided extra production capacity for the wide range of specialty Crystic gelcoats produced on the site. Scott Bader France handles orders, not only from French gelcoat customers, but also from Spain, Germany and other parts of mainland Europe. The additional mixer has enabled the Amiens production team to reduce lead times while handling a larger number of orders; they have seen continued growth during 2010 and 2011 for specialty Crystic gelcoats, particularly for transportation, building and marine applications. Scott Bader products are available on line at www.scottbader.com |
Fastener and adhesives show first time in the North Harrogate is famous for its architecture, spa, warm welcome and now fasteners and adhesives. On April 26th the town will become the centre of fastening and adhesives excellence when the FAST & IASE Exhibitions take place there.
The reason the FAST and IASE shows are in the North next spring is to enable engineers and buyers to benefit from a dedicated fastening and assembly show right on their doorstep. It has been noted that visitors who come to Harrogate might want to visit shows in the Birmingham area but can ill-afford the time needed to travel so far. Now the cream of the UK’s fastening and adhesives suppliers will go to their audience in an important move for manufacturing industry in the North. The Pavilions of Harrogate is an easily accessible out-of-town location providing easy access and plenty of free parking on site. Additionally a free bacon roll and brew on arrival is available for qualifying pre-registered visitors, courtesy of the Organisers. Entry to FAST & IASE exhibitions is free. One registration provides a badge valid for both events and pre-registration can be done at either www.fastenerexhibition.com or at www.adhesives-show.com. |
The new mixer in the Wollaston, UK plant is designed for the production of their Crestabond range of primerless methyl methacrylate (MMA) structural adhesives, which were launched in 2010. This additional capacity has been installed in response to the significant growth in sales and new orders over the last 18 months for both 400ml coaxial cartridges of Crestabond and bulk 20 litre pails or 200 litre drums for use with proprietary dosing machines. 
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Enterprise grant extended to 10 Shropshire schools The Shropshire arm of Young Enterprise, the UK’s largest business and enterprise education charity has received a grant of £56,000 from Telford based Alcoa Fastening Systems (AFS). Secured through the company’s Alcoa Foundation , the donation is part of the foundation’s support for non-profit organisations throughout the world, which promote environmental stewardship, enable economic and social sustainability and prepare tomorrow’s leaders through education and learning. From the academic year beginning September 2012, the two-year funding, £32,000 in the first and £24,000 in the second, will be used to support ten Telford and Wrekin area schools in two Young Enterprise programmes. Project Business, where students aged 13 to 16, enjoy a ‘taster’ of running a small business for a day and Company Programme, where 15 to 19-year-olds, mentored by Young Enterprise advisers, set up and run a business for a year. The most successful of the year-long projects will be crowned business of the year at a Shropshire awards ceremony in May, with the potential to progress and become a regional, national and European winner! Commenting on the grant, David Graham, Young Enterprise manager said: “This is the biggest single funding boost we have had in our recent history and is perfect timing as Young Enterprise steps up a gear to become the country’s foremost business-led educational charity. The grant will help to attract students from secondary schools who wouldn’t normally get involved in Young Enterprise and will focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics types of businesses. Employees from AFS will act as business mentors and the company has also offered its office and warehouse facilities as Picture (left to right): David Graham, Young Enterprise manager (education relationships), Claire Masefield, HR executive, Marcus Lokier, operations director and Lucy Moloney, HR manager, AFS.
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Inserts offer excellent corrosion resistance Recently launched by PennEngineering, Atlas Monel blind threaded inserts provide strong permanent threads in thin panel sections and offer excellent corrosion resistance ideally suited for attachment applications where equipment or components will be exposed to especially harsh conditions. Type AEKM high-strength nickel-copper alloy 400 fasteners additionally feature a minimised-profile head allowing for near-flush installations without requiring special hole preparation such as countersinking or dimpling.
The inserts can be installed quickly and easily anywhere and at any stage in the shop or field using Atlas Spin-Pull, Pull-to-Pressure, or Spin-Spin tools. An added benefit is their capability to accommodate applications where only one side of a panel is accessible for hardware installation. In these cases, the inserts can be installed from the front side and a single mating screw completes final component attachment.
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training rooms and to help students gain the practical skills in a ‘real’ workplace environment.”
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Protection and transparency across the supply chain
Providing a secure seal and reliable protection, SecuritySeal products undergo a physical and visual change when they are opened. Such changes are irreversible, meaning that any attempted tampering is clearly evident. When the seal on the tape or label is opened, a warning appears and remains visible when closed again. The label material can be supplied in different formats, colours and sizes and customised to the customers’ needs to ensure protection against imitations. They can be quickly attached and easily removed without leaving residue. The Security concept guarantees maximum security as a result of tailored advisory services, solutions and comprehensive guidance, claims the company
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UV curing equipment available under new agreement Techsil of Bidford-on-Avon Warwickshire has made an agreement with UV equipment specialist Hönle and its subsidiary company, adhesives experts, Panacol. Techsil will become distributors of Hönle’s world leading UV curing equipment and Panacol’s UV and LED curing adhesives to markets in the UK and Ireland.
Hönle and Panacol offer bonding solutions for a wide variety of substrates such as plastics, glass, and metals and their products are used extensively in the electronics, medical equipment and disposables, glass bonding, and optics sectors.
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The need for transparency and reliable protection for consignments across the whole logistics supply chain is of vital importance, says adhesive tape specialist tesa, which has responded to this challenge in developing the Security concept and a range of SecuritySeal adhesive tapes and labels which clearly show whether a shipment has completed its previous journey in the logistics chain intact and in its original packaging.
Adhesive expert Panacol offers an extensive product range from structural adhesives through conductive adhesives to UV adhesives. As UV technology is a fast growing sector, Panacol has recently further developed its successful Vitralit range. This innovation combines improved curing characteristics with an even higher resistance to moisture and temperature changes. | . |
You’ll never over-tighten a screw again An important development in torque tools has taken place with the launch of an innovative range of torque screwdrivers, claims torque measurement and control specialist Norbar.
The TruTorque range of products includes adjustable tools for flexibility of use and fixed torque versions called P Types, which have been designed for the production environment and pre-set for specific workplace demands. Norbar tells us that the new products are safe, easy-to-use and extraordinarily accurate, to better than the International Standard. They also offer high performance capabilities for dealing with a wide range of precision tasks requiring sensitive and safe screw connection, it is claimed. All adjustable tools are supplied with traceable calibration certificates. The variable versions are easy to adjust without need of additional tools and can be locked to prevent accidental adjustment of the set torque. For maximum versatility and particularly for applications with limited access, the bit holder can be removed and replaced with widely available screwdriver blades. The durable handle is constructed from a strong base material covered with a soft overlay for comfort and slip resistance.
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Free training workshop goes on the road
Kevin Ellison, the presenter and technical support engineer at Leuze electronic, commented: “We have had a wide variety of people travel to our previous workshops at our office in St Neots, including people from as far away as Cornwall and Aberdeen. The majority however have been from companies close to our office and so I am looking forward to meeting new people by taking the show on the road.” Leuze electronic’s managing director Mark Weymouth added: “The machine safety market is complicated by some consultants who over complicate the issues and create fear, and some suppliers who treat machine safety as a commodity product. These sessions are designed to show a different middle-way, with Leuze offering high performance products and an automation expert like HMK Direct to support customers on their applications.” Topics covered in the workshops: More information can be found at www.leuze.co.uk or by calling 01480 408 500
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Leuze electronic’s next free of charge ‘Introduction to Machine Safety’ training workshop is on Tuesday 31st January, at the offices of the HMK Direct in Congleton, East Cheshire. Thanks to the support of HMK this is the first time these popular half-day training workshops have been held in the North West. The program includes lunch and tea and coffee will be available during the morning.| . |
Stainless hinge suits larger cabinet doors
The hinge’s strength comes from AISI 316 castings with fine-ground finish with a simple elegant design which enables rapid door removal by a simple lift-off process for installation of doors or for straightforward equipment maintenance. The hinge programme in stainless steel accommodates 26mm door returns with 180° opening, which is considered ideal for use on adjacently situated suites of cabinets in corrosive wash down environments or for harsher situations such as offshore installations where often larger and heavier doors are needed. Matching stainless steel L and T handles as well as swinghandles are available as are some 500 extruded rubber sealing profiles for door sealing, the company tells us. EMKA’s range of enclosure hardware includes electronic locking systems, stainless steel hinges, spanner locks, wing handle/locks, 19 inch cabinet locks, HVAC locks and profile sealing strips for enclosure sealing in natural rubber, EPDM, neoprene and PVC.
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Speeding cabinet assembly Whether assembling a complete cabinet or just for the door furniture, the specialists at FDB Panel Fittings are convinced that their Snap-Line range of hinges, locks, handles and panel joiners can provide big time savings for enclosure production, enabling hardware to be installed without the use of tools or mounting hardware such as screws or nuts.
By using this technology, the hinges, quarter-turn locks and swinghandles which are integrated into a housing component, are wedged into the cut-out, providing a secure vibration proof installation. Without screws there is no concern about loose pieces falling off and damaging sensitive equipment. This design, with its two spring-loaded sets of wings, offers an installation that is comparable with the strength of conventional products that require hardware and tools for assembly. The hardware may be installed via blind assembly from the front and therefore can even be used for hollow profiles or sandwich panels.
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A lift-off hinge has been designed with simple screw fixing, which maintains the integrity of cabinet doors by requiring only screw hole punchings – not cut outs. The 1110-U120-PH from EMKA also aids rigidity and can work with larger cabinet doors. 
Managing director Terry Cantle explained: “This technology offers a completely new way of reducing cost and is an overall time saver for enclosure manufacturers. D-Snap technology speeds up the entire hardware installation process, allowing manufacturers to save up to 90% of their assembly installation time.”| . |
Access control system uses proximity cards
The compact, low-profile reader features a sealed, weather-resistant design, which can be combined with the Southco EA-P1 Pin/Prox reader for a complete access control system. An integrated LED provides visual feedback of card acceptance, and it works with any access control or security system that accepts Wiegand input. The EA-P3 is simple to install, set up and operate. Project Engineer Cindy Bart commented: “The EA-P3 is well suited to applications needing a simplified, affordable access control device that uses a customer’s existing HID access cards. The reader is designed for quick and easy installation and use.”
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Gantry style robot aids adhesive dispensing
The strength of the F5200N lies in its ability to create its own working area, enabling the system to be mounted on any work surface. The system is suitable for use on any type of platform requiring a gantry type mounting with open access under the robot. It is also ideal for conveyor fed automation or can be installed in work cells operating as a slave robot, allowing users to create their workstation. Intertronics point out that the robot comprises a control module, a teach-pendant and an articulated-gantry. The F5200N has a working area of 200 x 200mm with a resolution accuracy of 0.001mm. Using the teach pendant, the dispensing robot supports windows compatible dispensing software and can store and retrieve up to 100 programs.
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A recently launched proximity access controller from Southco uses HID proximity cards typically used for building access. Convenient and secure, the EA-P3 produces a standard output for easy integration with existing security systems and enclosure systems.
Low cost versatile robots are becoming increasingly popular in the manufacturing environment and the latest Fisnar F5200N gantry model offers huge flexibility for dispensing operations, according to supplier Intertronics, especially in applications such as form-in-place gaskets, adhesives, potting, coating and filling.| . |
No more sealing problems for flow control products
Specialist sealing company, Dichtomatik, solved a recent problem application involving a trunnian mounted ball valve used in the gas cleaning/sweetening processes. This involved the removal of carbon dioxide and acidic gasses such as hydrogen sulphide from gas streams, including synthesis gas produced by the gasification of coal, coke and heavy hydrocarbon oils. Gas sweetening is commonly undertaken in refineries, petrochemical plants and gas processing facilities, where the process often utilises a glycol-based solvent for the acid gas removal. The solvent chemistry, together with RGD (Rapid Gas Decompression), can attack the valve seals and ‘O’ rings typically located in the valve seat. This can lead to seal life reduction, premature valve leaks and higher costs for both plant operation and maintenance. A successful solution was achieved by the fitting of DuPont Kalrez Spectrum 7090 seals. These perfluoroelastomer products offer an excellent combination of chemical compatibility, with both RGD and high temperature resistance for O-ring applications, particularly where handling glycol-based solvents. |
Fold away handles add important safety feature The fold away handle feature on Elesa’s crank handles and hand wheels – whether solid or spoked – is an attractive and practical aspect of the company’s range of standard machine components.
Fold away handles are frequently required in spaces where they would otherwise be a safety hazard, where a wheel is motor driven, for example, or where a protruding handle may catch clothing when operators pass by the equipment. By virtue of folding the handle itself into the body of the wheel, the problem is eliminated while retaining convenience and ease of use. Solid hand wheels such as the ESW, VDS, VDT and VDO all have +IR options, as do the VRTP, ETW, GN322.3 and VR.FP versions. Elesa has also managed to incorporate a fold away handle into the EMW monospoke hand wheel and the MT crank handle. Revolving handles in resilient technopolymer or solid Duroplast are available to match the hand wheel design.
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Ball valves, utilising a drilled-through ball rotating in a retaining socket, are widely used for process line control operations within industry. Ball valves offer both flow throttling and full shut-off conditions, while applications can involve an extensive range of pressures, temperatures and even the use of chemically aggressive fluids. The importance of specifying the right sealing products for use within these valves becomes paramount, particularly where breakdowns or plant shutdowns caused through valve failure can be catastrophic.
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Spray adhesives suit large surfaces Adhesive tapes manufacturer tesa has launched a range of professional spray adhesives and cleaners for the large surface adhesion of different materials. From large format graphic displays and exhibition stands, to model construction and upholstery, bonding materials with a large surface area is one of the most important and challenging processes, especially when the substrates to be bonded are different and have varying weights.
Superior strength, especially on rough and porous surfaces such as foam and fabric, is offered by spray glue 60022. This temperature-resistant spray adhesive also bonds heavy materials such as wood and metal. Fitted with a vario valve, this product provides infinitely variable spray quantity control which helps to form an even film of adhesive on a broad array of surfaces while also offering a practical handling solution. For those industries previously mentioned where large surface materials are regularly constructed and then deconstructed, another challenge is presented in the process of temporary adhesion. With spray glue 60023, lightweight materials such as advertising billboards or posters can be easily removed and repositioned. This UV-resistant transparent spray creates a thin, even adhesive film. It can also be applied more thickly, or on both sides, to achieve permanent adhesion. The company’s 60040 product removes various types of soiling and residue and prepares surfaces for gluing and and can be used to correct virtually any mistake made. The product eliminates adhesive residue, for example if glue is sprayed outside the intended area or the wrong adhesive tape is used.
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Stainless steel lock for food and clean room areas
The new lock, designated 7-081, complies with Food and Drug Administration requirements and features special red silicone gasketing for easy identification. Additional features include electrical continuity by use of a grounding nut to protect users against static discharge. The wide variety of cams available ensures that there is high application flexibility and optimal fit to frame width. Locks can be delivered pre-assembled under FDB’s RocFast brand package.
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The different characteristics of these aerosol spray adhesives and industrial cleaners provide an efficient solution for most materials and different levels of adhesion. Developed for lightweight materials, such as paper, fabric and Styrofoam in particular, spray glue 60021 ensures permanent adhesive bonding. Its fine, even mist provides excellent adhesion results on both smooth and slightly uneven surfaces. 
A stainless steel quarter-turn lock just released by FDB Panel Fittings has some exciting features that ensure its suitability for food processing and electronic clean room assembly areas. The easy to clean polished and rounded shape eliminates crevices that could trap debris, thus preventing accumulation of dirt and bacterial contamination by the use of conventional methods, including high pressure cleaning. There is a reduced risk of injuries and guaranteed germ free environment within the enclosure. | . |
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Thank you for being one of the 66,000+ users of this website. We value your visit and always try to make the service we provide especially useful to you. Due to staff holidays over the Christmas break our next news update will be posted here on Thursday 5th January 2012, but in the meantime you can still access almost 1,000 suppliers and countless products by using our ultra-quick ‘Find’ buttons to the left of the page. We have some diary dates that you might wish to note for 2012:
You can follow the exhibitions, FAST Magazine and this online site at www.twitter.com/fasteninguk We wish you a Merry Christmas and a safe, happy and rewarding 2012 Mark Newby |
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND BEST WISHES FOR 2012 FROM NEWBYCOM LTD| . |
Stainless standard parts and machine accessories
The WDS range spans castors, gas struts and clamps, to hand wheels, screws and studs. Customer demand has driven the company to develop this latest catalogue as a way of linking all the stainless steel products from across a number of different product ranges into one, easy to navigate format. Every product in the catalogue includes a picture along with technical drawings, dimensions, specifications and part numbers; the steel grades available for that product are also included. Where products have complimentary or recommended accessories, they are suggested with a page reference. All products in the catalogue are available with no minimum order quantity and without a small order surcharge. Fully annotated files are also available free to download in most popular CAD formats.
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Budget locks fit industry standard cutouts A range of budget locks from EMKA subsidiary Fort include many with master key capability for zone locking formats. Others offer particularly low cost options for workboxes, storage lockers, transit cases, enclosures, cases, cabinets and access security.
Detailed information on EMKA products and services can be found on the company’s website, where it is also possible to download 3D CAD files to incorporate into engineering designs. Click on the Info and follow the link to the website.
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Standard parts manufacturer WDS has launched a new catalogue that brings all of its stainless steel products together for easy reference. Ideal for industrial applications located in clean rooms, wash-down and potentially corrosive environments, the products are available in a number of stainless steel grades. 
The Fort budget range is designed to fit industry standard panel cutouts and comes with a wide variety of both key combinations and cams to suit common applications. Standard key cylinder quarter-turn locks are complimented with lockable recessed handles, as well as digital combination locks and radial pin tumbler camlocks with or without electronic switches for securing of electronic equipment or for mains electrical circuits.| . |
Popular fasteners on show at Southern Manufacturing
The Snaploc system minimises vibration and noise while allowing quick and easy ‘snap-fit’ installation as well as disassembly for servicing, repair or replacement: without the need for special tools. It’s simple two part – ball and cup – design enables online assembly operation times to be reduced and offers the potential to benefit from further manufacturing savings by reducing the number of parts required in the fastening process. Flexitol stepless tolerance compensation fasteners enable precision alignment of parts during assembly. Greater manufacturing flexibility is achieved allowing costs to be reduced as well as the prospect of additional savings by increasing the tolerances on outsourced parts – all the while retaining quality. Installation involves inserting the retaining element of the fastener into a pre-punched hole. A friction bush adjustment element is then fitted into the Flexitol and the fastening bolt is inserted and turned to achieve perfect alignment. Assembly can be from one side only and the system is easily integrated into manufacturing procedures. Bollhoff UK also supplies a mechanical insertion tool with hydraulic-pneumatic drive option for setting the system.
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Volumetric dispensing system gets a volume boost The preeflow eco-PEN 600 from Intertronics is a high precision volumetric dispensing system that takes all the features of the existing eco-PEN 300/450 and adds size. Maximum volume is nearly trebled at 16 ml per minute while minimum dose is just 0.015 ml, thus increasing the application scope of these systems, as well as enabling them to take on the bigger jobs where guaranteed 1% accuracy is required with continuous repeatability such as with robotic installations in electronics, component assembly, medical or laboratory type industries.
Associated microprocessor based controllers are available in bench top or panel-mount format and are claimed to be simple to operate, without submenus but with graphic support. A wide variety of dosing programs with part-management are storable. External signals can be connected by the preeflow EC200’s I/O ports to a PLC for control in automated lines. The supply pressure is monitored and can be displayed digitally. Error messages for filling level and motor current may also be monitored via an RS232 interface. For robotic and automated installations a speed control enables time and pressure to be set by external computer system.
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Bollhoff Fastenings will be exhibiting at next year’s Southern Manufacturing Show which is being held on 15th and 16 th February 2012 at FIVE in Farnborough. Central to the company’s demonstration will be the Snaploc range of reusable push-on/pull-off fasteners and Flexitol tolerance compensating fixings, which have delivered manufacturing cost savings for customers. 
Intertronics tells us that the eco-PEN 600 also maintains the ease of use characteristic of the endless piston design with its easy clean rotor and stator, independence of feed pressure and easily controllable suck-back which ensures a clean material cut-off and no post-drip effects.| . |
Mixing epoxy without including air improves performance
Tests with the Thinky ARE-250 using two-part epoxy structural paste adhesives showed that small exact quantities can be mixed reliably and cleanly in a fraction of the time taken by hand and with consistent optimal results every time, even compared with a hand mix plus secondary degassing process. Results included reduction in mixing time from 20 minutes to 20 seconds and complete elimination of observable air bubbles with a consequent 15% improvement in lap shear test strengths.
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Rapid prototyping concept for fastening components Arnold Umformtechnik has come up with rapid prototyping concept that allows highly complex fastener components and precision parts to be developed quickly as prototypes and manufactured later as production-ready parts with the same technical properties and cost-effectiveness for large volume production. Fastener Express, the company boasts, closes the gap between development and regular production. Nowadays for new cars the elapsed time between the first sketch on the drawing board and the start of regular series production is little more than 30 months. Nearly half of the time previously required has been eliminated, thanks to the systematic optimisation of the entire supply chain for automobile production, which has now reached the small-parts level as screws, bolts, turned parts and precision parts. In the past, development departments had to reckon on development times of up to 30 weeks for special solutions in this area.
With the Fastener Express method, a specially formed rapid prototyping team eliminates the lost time that usually arises from administrative processes. The established direct acceptance process systematically eliminates request delay times typical in the industry. Instead of a wait for handling, order receipt automatically triggers a prompt technical evaluation of factors such as using typical fastener materials or testing the mechanical properties of the joint.
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Based in Scotland or the North?
Watch this space for further updates! |
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Traditional hand mixing of two-part epoxies – especially in cases of extreme viscosity difference – can result in the inclusion of substantial quantities of air bubbles, as well as much mess and waste. The resulting mix tends to be non-homogeneous and inconsistent/unreliable in performance. Now the Thinky ARE-250 from Intertronics can address these issues.
As early as the development phase, Arnold´s Fastener Express team carries out the Production Ready check to determine whether the subsequent production-ready part will be a turned part or a moulded part. This decision has major ramifications in terms of potential cost savings. Many turned parts can be converted to more economical moulded parts during the transition from the prototype phase to volume production.
If you’re located in the Northern parts of the UK make a diary date to visit the FAST & IASE Exhibitions which are taking place at the Pavilions of Harrogate on 26th April 2012. It’s the furthest north the events have been and offers a first-class opportunity for design teams, production personnel and manufacturing managers to meet and talk face-to-face with some of the best suppliers in the fastener and adhesives business. | . |
Fabricator gets a step ahead with machine purchase A market leader in orbital welding, Orbital Fabrications which specialises in the assembly of gas and fluid handling systems, has become one of the first UK companies to purchase an ARC Machines EPS-1500 welding system, following its launch earlier this month. Cambridgeshire based Orbital Fabrications is no stranger to ARC Machines having used its products for over 22 years and now has nothing but praise for the EPS-1500. The company says that it has enabled it to adopt a far more flexible method of working. And the new machine will allow the business to undertake a more diverse range of new projects. Chief executive officer, Philip Pearson, explained: "The EPS-1500 is almost universal because it operates with a cross-section of different manufacturers' weld heads, is compact and has a continuously adjustable weld level instead of a step level. The cost was no more expensive than any other comparable welding system so it was not only a highly viable purchase but has also assisted Orbital Fabrications with future proofing."
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More energy for longer The rising cost of fuel is a topic that is high on most people’s agenda and is focussing our attention on the efficiency of our renewable energy solutions. Solar technology is not a new notion by any stretch of the imagination and solar power efficiency levels have increased dramatically – now solar panel manufacturers are exploring new and innovative techniques to reduce the cost of manufacturing the equipment.
A short video demonstrating the use of igus plastic bearings in solar panels can be viewed at: www.igus.co.uk/videos/bearingsforsolarpanels
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Orbital Fabrications supports a diversity of industries including aerospace, electrical, semiconductor, pharmaceutical, fuel cell and automotive sectors. Services range from small scale projects to full turnkey solutions, so flexibility is an important issue. The adaptability of the EPS-1500 means that the firm can now service all these industries with the minimum of change downtime, which allows it to provide a full one-stop-shop service.
Plain bearings and spherical bearings are components that are traditionally used to support the movements of the solar panel while it tracks the sun’s rays for maximum efficiency. However, extreme temperatures and weather conditions caused by wind, water, dirt and dust take metallic bearings quickly to their performance limits. Plastic bearings from igus UK are made from tribopolymers; totally self-lubricating and requiring no maintenance, they are tested and proven to perform and last in these extreme environmental conditions, have a predictable lifetime and never fail catastrophically.| . |
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Next April in Harrogate will be an interesting month for design and production engineers based in the north of the country, especially those with a remit covering fasteners and adhesives. The FAST & IASE exhibitions, which have found success in the Midlands, London and the Southwest, are now to visit Harrogate on April 26th 2012. FAST showcases everything good in mechanical fastening and IASE (Industrial Adhesives, Sealants & Encapsulants) does likewise in the arena of industrial and engineering bonding. Organisers NewbyCom carefully chose the location for the nortrhern debut. Managing director Mark Newby explained: “We wanted somewhere out of the centre of town – an easy to reach and convenient location, readily accessible with free parking. The site chosen at the Pavilions of Harrogate has excellent facilities and I am sure will be ideal for both visitors and exhibitors. Next years’ FAST & IASE Exhibitions take place on April 26th 2012 in the north at the Pavilions of Harrogate will feature the industry’s top suppliers of fasteners, fastening systems and adhesives with recognized technology experts, plus free parking and free bacon roll and brew for qualifying pre-registered visitors. To be amongst the first to see, discuss and evaluate everything new in fastening, adhesives and assembly, simply go to the exhibition websites and pre-register now. Entry to FAST & IASE exhibitions is free. One registration provides a badge valid for both events and pre-registration can be done at either www.fastenerexhibition.com or at www.adhesives-show.com. |
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Adhesive tapes team enjoy a F1 activities day Adhesive tapes supplier tesa recently rewarded its sales force with a day of on and off track motor sport themed activities at Silverstone, organised by Speedsport Promotions.
tesa sees motorsport as the ultimate embodiment of performance and success, qualities they associate with their own expertise in tape engineering. tesa UK’s managing director, Steve Plastow explained: “We’re focused on helping our customers to benefit from implementing profit-driven engineering solutions that enable them to achieve the best performance possible. In this sense there are strong synergies between what we do and the world of motor racing where the principles of agility, determination and expertise are required to compete and succeed at the highest level.” During the day, the sales team spent time on the izone (pictured), Silverstone’s state-of-the-art driver training simulator. This was followed by a briefing after which the group got the chance to drive supercars from prestigious marques including Ferrari and Aston Martin, on the famous Silverstone Grand Prix Circuit before having a high speed passenger ride in a Nissan GTR sports car with Callum MacLeod, one of Britain’s top young racing drivers.
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Specialising in driver management, race car preparation and corporate hospitality, Speedsport Promotions has had a business relationship with tesa for more than 15 years. During this period the company has successfully staged numerous motor sport orientated sponsorship and hospitality events for tesa. Speedsport is also the official supplier of tesa tapes to the motorsport industry from its base at Silverstone.| . |
High-performance struts for hold-open and lock-in-place applications QRP, a US based PEM company, has introduced a series of high-performance struts designed for hold-open and lock-in-place applications in the aerospace and military industries. All strut types have been engineered to offer ideal solutions for engine cowlings, access panels, and maintenance doors, among other end-uses. QRP’s scissor struts in particular have been qualified for JSFM62 and JSFM64 (Joint Strike Fighter) programmes by meeting or exceeding JSFM specifications for tension, compression, and handling loads.
QRP (www.qrp-inc.com) is a PEM company and has been a leading manufacturer of quick release pins, lanyards and latches for more than 30 years.
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Electronics packaging hardware makes it quick and easy
This technology offers a way of assembling racks and cabinets, as well as their necessary hardware without the use of tools or other fittings such as screws or nuts. The need was identified to enable side panels, tops, bases and doors to effectively be produced as flat items and then quickly assembled either at the factory or on site. Of particular relevance to 19in systems, a recently launched captive Snap-Joiner, which fits the standard rack 9.5mm x 9.5mm cut-out, is quicker and easier to use than the traditional screw with cup washer and cage nut. The fastener is simply punched into the front panel where it is held by spring clips, this assembly is then mated to the rear panel and the Snap-Joiner core push fitted to activate spring wedges which accommodate a clamping range of up to 5.2mm in a vibration proof connection. Removal is simplicity itself with a 45° turn by cross-head screwdriver, thus meeting the requirements of the Machinery Directive 2006/42EC.
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In addition to scissor versions, the product line-up includes telescoping struts, fixed-length struts, spring struts, and hold-open rods. Depending on type, struts can be specified with automatic or manual lock-in features. Secondary safety-locking features also can be provided. 
Assembling cabinets for electronic equipment can create a significant bottleneck in the production process with consequent downstream effects on productivity. Normally the idea of reducing time might also involve reducing quality in some way, but one practical solution can be found in D-Snap and Snapline technology which is available from FDB Panel Fittings and offers high quality outcomes with assembly time reduction in the order of 90%.| . |
Anti-corrosion training centre opens near Paris NOF Metal Coatings Group has launched what it believes is the first training centre dedicated entirely to zinc flake anti-corrosion technology. Located 20 minutes from Paris-Roissy Charles de Gaulle airport near Paris, the centre is equipped with industrial scale facilities and offers much diversified training and has for its main aim to follow the evolution and challenges linked to Geomet coatings.
Key to the centre’s success is information, training and communication, explained Isabelle Perche, head of the Quality Department and executive in charge of the training centre. “When attending a session at our European training centre, the trainees will be immersed in the heart of our industrial daily life of research and engineering,” she said. “The training will be performed by highly experienced specialists who are ready to share the passion for their job.” |
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Zero Clips secures future after staff buy-out
The four believed in each other’s dedication and the business model, having worked for the company for many years and seeing a bright future for Zero Clips. The new owners agree: "It's early days, but we want to increase sales and create new job for the Birmingham area, which will secure a bright future for us all,” they commented in a joint statement. Zero Clips, which only moved into its new Charles Henry Street premises in October 2008, has been in business since 1978 and is a manufacturer and distributor of clips and clamps for use in a huge range of industries from automotive to white goods and Agricultural to Marine.
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Geomet and Dacromet coatings are industrially applied by a worldwide licensee’s network. Today, more than 3500 tons of fasteners are coated daily worldwide. The company believes the creation of this training centre represents a strategic means aiming at effectively controlling the evolution of its products on a global scale. During the courses, participants will handle compounds in a specific laboratory, use salt spray cabinets and carry out physical measurement, electrochemical or tribology tests.
Birmingham based Zero Clips is celebrating a successful management buy-out by its employees. And as a result, four of the staff have now become Directors. These are brother and sister John and Lynn Lymer, Kvieta Dixon and Imran Munawar. All four have worked for the company for many years and embarked on the buy-out, when they heard the previous owners had decided to retire and sell on the business. | . |
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Flexible adhesive gains structural strength in less than an hour Structural adhesives are generally available either as a fast curing solid structural material or as a slow curing product which can take up to 24 hours to reach its optimum bond strength. But now a new range of adhesives, formulated by AEC Polymers in France, combines both technologies to produce high strength adhesives which are also highly flexible. Three grades of SAF fast curing, flexible structural adhesives has been launched in the UK by Eurobond Adhesives. Managing director Simon Dearing explained: “We have three different flexible grades 30%, 150% and 400% elongation which are available with three different cure speeds 15 minutes, 30 minutes and one hour. This depth in our range should be sufficient for any application.
The SAF range will be widely used in automotive, marine, rail, general manufacturing, signmaking and construction industries and can tolerate powder coating processes after metal substrates have been bonded.
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Fastener firm grows despite Irish foes According to a recent NCB Purchasing Managers’ Index, Irish manufacturing activity contracted at its sharpest rate in two years during September. But industrial fastenings manufacturer and distributor TR Southern Fasteners, based in Mallow, Ireland, is bucking this trend with the business reporting over 35% growth over the last two years.
Branch manager Dara Horgan explained: “Our business growth is due to the service, support and loyalty that we provide our customers. We pride ourselves on the relationships we build with them, offering customers individual solutions that fit their business needs. Tailoring vendor management solutions to meet our customers’ requirements, we are able to streamline their efficiency and productivity thus increasing our clients’ profitability.” |
This advanced new generation adhesive technology combines the high strength benefits of methacrylate structural adhesives with the flexibility of modified silyl (MS) polymer adhesives.
Key to this success, the company claims, is local customer care and service. As part of the TR Fastenings group, the company’s service is supported by extensive global resources and manufacturing operations in the UK and Asia. This combination has allowed TR Southern Fasteners to supply a vast range of fasteners and associated components to small, medium and large Irish manufacturers and engineering subcontractors while meeting each individual company’s needs. | . |
Pin and keeper product for quick sign assembly Sign Fastener is a new product from Micro Plastics which has been designed for rapid assembly and disassembly of a sign or other panel to its support structure. This reusable fastener fits hole diameters of 8mm to 9.5mm and can be used to fasten two panels with a total thickness of between 25.4mm and 41.6mm by simply squeezing the keeper together and sliding onto the pin.
Moulded from impact resistant and UV stabilized nylon 6/6, the sign fastener is designed for weather in outdoor applications. Micro Plastics manufactures millions of fasteners every day. The company offers over 20,000 items and maintains an inventory of over 250 million parts. Free samples are available on request.
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Quick access fastener turns heads Ben Goater, Southco’s Global Product Manager believes that Dzus Fasteners has taken the quarter-turn fastener to a new and unrivalled level of development with the introduction of the D8 three years ago. The product incorporates a manufacturing technology that uses a rolled cam form process exclusive to parent company Southco. This quick access fastener has seen sales increase by 28% overall, including 60% growth in the USA in the past year alone.
The key features which make the D8 line a leading choice for a wide range of applications is its oriented head to cam feature. Other significant attributes include its precision fit, quick assembly, smooth feel and improved aesthetics, superior strength, improved ergonomics, and choice of stud sizes and receptacle styles.
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Goater explained: “The D8 range is a culmination of over 80 years’ experience in quarter-turn fastener technology and manufacture designed to offer a far more effective alternative to the screw. [The product] came about because we recognised the limitations of traditionally machined fasteners and the many advantages – including improved quality, reliability and feel – that the orientation of head feature to cam feature on a rolled fastener would bring to the quarter-turn quick access market. | . |
Free designers’ guide is just a phone call away Linear motion specialist NSK has published a free, pocket-sized guide detailing its extensive linear motion range. The booklet is divided into six sections and extending to 85 pages. The company tells us that the pocket guide provides a concise yet comprehensive guide to NSK’s linear motion products.
Running to over 20 pages, section one of the booklet is devoted to linear ball guides: six configurations, including the standard LH and LS, LW, PU, PE and Translide series are all featured, with full sizing information via convenient charts; and the technical aspects of the guides are also displayed with the help of simple graphics. Free copies of the pocket guide are available from NSK’s Freephone service Tel: 0500 2327464. Callers should quote the catalogue reference LIN/B/E/06.11, and also the title of the publication: Pocket Guide Linear Motion. |
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Corrosion-resistant grab handle has safety lock A new grab handle in glass fibre reinforced techno polymer from Elesa incorporates a spring loaded security lock with the operating pin in AISI 304 stainless steel. Consequently high corrosion resistance makes the EBR handle applicable for environments where regulations, hygienic concerns or climatic/ environmental factors make it important to use corrosion-resistant materials.
Related products from Elesa include lobe knobs, grab handles, T handles, foldaway handles and a selection of enclosure handles in ergonomic design styles. Further information regarding Elesa products may be found by clicking the Info button
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Ideal for use by design engineers, the pocket guide provides general data on equipment types and clear graphics that should help engineers assess the benefits of such features as groove configurations on linear guides for load carrying capacity and impact loads.
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Free Online Seminar on lean manufacturing
Mettler Toledo is hosting another of its series of informative online on-demand seminars, focusing on lean manufacturing – and they’re completely free. This webinars are devoted to providing solutions on how to optimise your production processes and avoid wastage. Participants will learn how three practical solutions will continuously improve their production processes.
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Volumetric dispensing for many materials Intertronics’ introduction of the eco-PEN 450 offers a greater capacity for high accuracy and highly repeatable volumetric dispensing as well as addressing the needs of a wide range of low to medium viscosity applications. These include oils and fats, colour mixes, silicones, sealing compounds, adhesives and even abrasive media, which can be easily handled by the innovative precision rotor-stator mechanism referred to as an ‘endless piston’ by manufacturers ViscoTec.
A wide variety of dosing programs with part-management are storable. The supply pressure is monitored and can be displayed digitally. Error messages for filling level and motor current may also be monitored via an RS232 interface.
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Lean Manufacturing is the latest buzzword in manufacturing circles – lean manufacturing strategies can save millions yet produce excellent results. Advantages include lower lead times, reduced set-up times, lower equipment expense, and of course, increased profits. It gives the manufacturer a competitive edge by reducing costs and increasing quality, and by allowing the manufacturer to be more responsive to customer demands.
The product deals easily with dots and beads as small as 0.004 ml at up to 6 ml per minute, featuring viscosity autonomous application at pressures from 16 to 20 bar via Luer lock nozzles or needles. Easy fitment to robotic systems is facilitated by the dispenser’s controllers which are available in bench top or panel-mount format. The units are microprocessor controlled and simple to operate, without submenu, and with graphic support. External signals can be connected via I/O ports to a PLC for control in automated lines. | . |
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Low profile compression latch aids environmental sealing Two new stainless steel quarter-turn latches from Dirak offer compression in a low-profile design. The 7-078 fixed cam latch and 7-079 adjustable cam latch are claimed ideal for any indoor or outdoor application that requires compression for environmental sealing, reduction of noise and rattling due to vibration and low protrusion.
Both latches offer up to 6mm of compression and can be used with variable door thicknesses of 0.8mm to 22mm. They are water and dust-tight according to IP 65 and DIN EN 60529. Available in both left and right hand versions, interior protrusion of the latches in an uncompressed position is 48mm and 69mm respectively.
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Epoxy adhesive system receives GL approval Huntsman Advanced Materials has received approval from Germanischer Lloyd (GL) for Araldite AW 4856 / Hardener HW 4856 Fast; an epoxy adhesive system designed for the manufacture of wind blades and The system has been certified as a Duromeric adhesive, comprising good thixotropic and low exothermic properties. Offering increased toughness and fatigue resistance in applications requiring load bearing strength, this adhesive also provides excellent adhesion under adverse application conditions.
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When using these latches, the door is locked and secured with a 180° turn. The first 90° turn secures the door closed. The second 90° turn compresses the gasket. There is a colored locked and unlocked indicator on the face of the latches so the user can clearly see the lock status.
Huntsman offers a full range of products that can be used in the Wind Energy sector, including seamless modelling pastes for master models, gel coats and resins for mould production, GL certified resins and adhesives for parts production, as well as materials for on-site repairs.| . |
Following one of the most successful events ever held (the week before last at the National Motorcycle Museum Birmingham) the Organisers of the FAST & IASE Exhibitions have announced that the shows will be heading North in 2012. On 26th April the events will take place at the Pavilions of Harrogate, part of the Great Yorkshire Showground. “We chose the venue because it fitted the bill so well for a variety of reasons that are of equal importance to visitors and exhibitors alike in the North” said Mark Newby of organisers NewbyCom Ltd. Key amongst these reasons were:
I Visitors are expected to arrive early as an early start means the ability to take in the exhibitions and still be back in the office late morning for those who are located within an hour of the venue. It also means that visitors travelling greater distances can have their day usefully shortened too. To encourage early starters the organisers have arranged to provide a free bacon roll and cup of tea for the first 250 pre-registered visitors. Full details and a pre-registration facility will be posted on the exhibition website from December but in the interim if you would like to pre-register in advance simply email registration@fastening-solutions-exhibition.co.uk
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Spring latches suit arduous environments
The latch is operated by turning the thumb lever 180° to either retract or extend the indexing pin, location of the mechanism is ensured with an indexing notch for each position. Housings of the Elesa GN722 are in zinc plated cast steel with black painted finish and are provided with mounting lugs for machine screw or nut and bolt fixing. However, the product is left in natural steel to facilitate welding in position as required.
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Architectural hinges are designed for strength
Variants within the FDB offering include the Loadmaster which is recommended for adjusted door weights up to and beyond 160kg, fitted with or without door closer devices, and annual usage up to 150,000 cycles. Dual bearing hinges – a hybrid five knuckle hinge incorporating two styles of bearing, plain knuckle bearings at the centre, and concealed or shrouded polymer bearings at the outer knuckle load bearing faces. Recommended for adjusted door weights up to 120kg, doors with or without all types of door closer and annual usage up to 200,000 cycles, they are particularly suited for metal doorset applications. Where low door weight and low frequency of use are applicable, plain knuckle hinges are suitable for use on a wide range of applications, including high quality joinery, such as cabinet and cupboard doors, through to internal dwelling doors.
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The GN722 series of 180° operation spring latches have been released by Elesa for use in steel fabrications or assemblies where quick and low cost positioning or locking is required with a simple manual activation. The company tells us the latches have been specifically designed to function in arduous and dirty environments such as in the production of jigs and fixtures, in clamping devices and assembly installations, for locking, fixing and securing components and parts in dirty or messy work places such as those where dusty materials are involved. This would include production or service situations in industries such as shipbuilding, mining and agriculture.
The Phoenix range of heavy duty architectural hinges now available from FDB Panel Fittings have been designed for strength and an attractive physical appearance. These features, claims FDB, demonstrates a high degree of compliance with EN1935 having gained test performance from grades 1 to 14 and with CERTIFIRE approvals. The hinges are suitable for applications such as department stores, schools, bank doors, offices and residential installations. These situations of course include external doors (circa 160kg), fire doors, internal doors and lightweight furniture, cupboards and wardrobes.| . |
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Online distributor expands fastener portfolio Stella Seven, the online-only distributor for Alcoa Fastening Systems, has just completed one year of trading and to celebrate has added items to its product portfolio from Recoil, Marson and the Camloc Keenserts range. Marson precision-moulded all-nylon rivets are ideal for non-conductive, non-corrosive environments, with the potential to fasten plastic to plastic, plastic to metal and plastic to fibre-glass. On installation, three `legs’ on the blind side form to securely lock the components in place and prevent pullout.
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Fire retardant epoxy adhesives will suit the aerospace sector Two white IFR structural epoxy adhesive systems have been announced by ITW Devcon. One system offers a five minute working time with a fast cure time of one hour. The other is a 10 minute non-sagging version which cures in three hours and is ideally suited for use on vertical and overhead surfaces. These two-part self-extinguishing products are available in cartridges, are easy to mix and can be applied using a dispensing gun.
The adhesives are intended for bonding metals, fabrics, ceramics, wood, vinyls and concrete for use in the aerospace, marine, electricity generation and rail industries. Typical applications are expected to be potting inserts, edge sealing of aircraft interiors, and applications where a self-extinguishing structural epoxy system is required.
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The automotive range kit from Recoil is essentially five metric-sized kits in one, including M6-1, M8-1.25, M9-1.25, M10-1.5 and M12-1.5. It can be used to repair damaged threads in a variety of automotive applications such as wheel bolts, spark plugs, brake callipers, oil sump and drain plugs. 
A key environmental benefit is the fact that less smoke is created if the material burns and no halogenated flame retardant additives are used in the formulations and these approvals make the adhesives ideally suited to the needs of the aerospace sector. Additional benefits including fast cure, noise and vibration dampening, low coefficient of thermal expansion, lightweight but strong and flexible long-lasting bonds, high corrosion and fatigue resistance, good impact and peel strengths.| . |
High purity welding system cuts costs A new welding system from Arc Machines has been designed for high purity applications in the manufacture of aerospace systems, biopharmaceutical equipment, semiconductor production, food and dairy cooling distribution systems. Equipped with a 150 amp power supply, the unit weighs just 23Kg and offers a patented S3 weld schedule and offers substantial operational cost savings because it can be used with a wide range of AMI weld heads and those of competing suppliers.
Experienced welders can start programming the unit and setting up multi-level, multi-pass, stepped S3 programmes after only a few minutes training. Less experienced welders can also be trained in a fraction of the time needed to learn comparable systems, significantly reducing the time required for training welding operatives. Arc Machines UK's general sales manager, Sean Blandford, commented: "The new EPS1500 is the most competitively priced lightweight power source and weld heads on the market. Designed to address a common problem faced by our customers in the orbital welding industry in securing skilled labour, [it] directly addresses this problem through its ease of use." |
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FAST & IASE Exhibitions – a record number of attendees on site! Last week’s FAST & IASE Exhibitions saw hundreds of UK engineers and buyers and specifers of fasteners and adhesives flock to the National Motorcycle Museum to take in the latest developments in the field. The exhibitions saw a record attendance this year, and many visitors chose to arrive early in the morning to discuss their needs with exhibitors. In fact the number of visitors that arrived in the first hour alone (between 0930 and 1030) was almost four times the number that came in the same period at the 2009 show!
Commenting on the events afterwards, show director Mark Newby observed “Despite the continued attempts of the media to paint a dark picture of the UK economy, manufacturing is still strong and the buzz at last week’s show was clear evidence of it. Britain’s manufacturing excellence is based on innovation, imagination and the engineering expertise to make things, and make them better than our international competitors do. The visitors included top engineers from leading OEMs large and small, all of them keen to embrace the latest opportunities and new products in fastening, adhesives and assembly. They met with an eclectic portfolio of some of the best fastening and adhesives suppliers in the business and I know that many exhibitors have had their best ever show with us as a result”. The next FAST & IASE Exhibitions take place in the North, at the Pavilions of Harrogate on 26th April 2012. |
The Exel EPS1500's features are the culmination of two years development work and include intuitive 12in software driven touch screen, which uses just three dashboard screens to control and monitor the entire weld process. Fully microprocessor controlled, weld parameters are set by the power supply which records the weld schedule for each size and wall thickness of tube or pipe in the unit's memory. These can easily be recalled and modified for different materials with any subsequent changes logged by the system. | . |
Fastening and adhesives ideas, innovation, new products and processes!
These are specialist exhibitions as well as being the only shows of their kind to take place in the UK. The exhibitor portfolio doesn’t just provide manufacturing professionals with a hands-on opportunity to see, evaluate and discuss all the latest new products and processes to have emerged recently: arguably of equal importance is the unrivalled pool of real application experience and expertise also available to visitors, free of charge, from stand staff who are amongst the most experienced application experts to be found anywhere! Cost reduction and the improvement of designs always feature highly in the extensive list of advantages gained by visitors. Visitor research at previous events reveals that the majority of visitors don’t just solve the questions they arrived with - more than 80% also state that they made discoveries that they weren’t expecting to at the events. Exhibition entry is free, and parking is also free and plentiful at the National Motorcycle Museum. Moreover, the Organisers are adding value to every visitor’s day by providing a free museum pass too, saving the £8.95 entry fee normally charged to view the fantastic collection. Visitors who pre-register in advance (up to the cut-off point of 1900 on Weds 19th October) may also benefit from a complimentary bacon roll and brew if they choose to arrive at the events before 1100. The National Motorcycle Museum is located adjacent to the NEC at J6 of the M42. Pre-registration can be done at www.fastenerexhibition.com or www.adhesives-show.com . One badge covers both events. |
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New look website gives easy access for rivet buyers Gesipa Blind Riveting Systems has gone live with a new look website (www.gesipa.co.uk) which provides online visitors an easy access to the complete range of Gesipa manufactured products through easy navigation. Along with case studies from different customer markets and latest news from the company, the website also provides access to a flip page catalogue with separate downloadable product PDFs.
With over 50 years of designing, manufacturing and testing application expertise Gesipa Blind Riveting Systems are considered to be world leaders in producing an extensive range of rivets, rivet nuts, rivet nut studs, associated tools and bespoke solutions. The company prides itself on its quality, which has been achieved through continuous investment in top quality machinery, excellent staff, continuous improvement processes and vigorous quality and testing methods. The website gives various options to the users to get in touch with the company. Contact details via area, for technical sales account managers and an information request form can be found on the site along with details of Gesipa locations worldwide. Meet Gesipa at the FAST Exhibition at the National Motorcycle Museum Birmingham on 20th October 2011.
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Push button snap locks are simple but effective
A new series of push button snap locks from Elesa is ideal for small doors and panels where a slam closure is required with quick opening. This is achieved with a radial spring loaded slide which snaps into place when the door is closed – opening is by simple push button to disengage the slide. Elesa tells us that the GN315 series is ideal for inspection cover panels or doors, or for quick location of frequently removed equipment where manual release is appropriate. The snap locks feature both an integral grip knob handle and adjustable depth of locking distance to accommodate various door and frame distances – from 18 to 23mm and from 23 to 28 mm. The GN315.1 is a simple flush mount button available with fixed clamp settings of 20mm or 25mm. Visitors to the FAST Exhibition at the Motor Cycle Museum on October 20th can find more information on the Elesa stand.
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See the new Araldite products at the IASE Show Araldite distributor Sil-Mid has extended its product range to include the new silyl-terminated polymers Araldite 2060 White and Araldite 2061 Black. The new adhesive has been developed to meet the requirement for genuine elasticity in bonding applications. In contrast to the high-strength epoxy and methacrylate-based systems, these one-component adhesives offer outstanding flexibility and elastic recovery combined with high adhesion properties due to their silane modification. The new Araldite products are available, next day delivery, from www.silmid.com at a cost of £5.17 per 290ml cartridge.
Following Sil-Mid Ltd’s long and continued success in the aviation industry it is now diversifying into new markets and the ambition as part of a strategic intent is to expand its market share by supplying the whole of the transportation sector. “Our partnership with Huntsman Advanced Materials is one that we trust and we value our relationship which has been built over an extensive period. Their products will always feature within our portfolio, we have to continually offer strong and durable products,” said Gary Marriner, Sil-Mid’s managing director. Visitors to the forthcoming IASE Exhibition which is being held at the National Motorcycle Museum, on Thursday 20th October can see the products first hand and meet the Sil-Mid team on the stand.
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Free counting guide for FAST readers Leading supplier of weighing and measuring solutions, Mettler Toledo is offering a free Counting Guide which outlines where piece counting can be used and what challenges can be faced by users of such equipment. The guide also presents a comprehensive overview of the many weighing solutions available.
The free CD also contains various application notes, case studies, informative product brochures and an overfilling cost calculator to calculate the potential increase of profit through precise piece counting. Request your free Counting Guide by registering at www.mt.com/counting-guide and discover how versatile piece counting is and how it can help you to increase your profits. Visitors to the forthcoming FAST Exhibition being held at the National Motorcycle Museum on October 20th will be able to find out more about piece counting and weighing systems on the Mettler Toledo stand.
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These properties are combined with good paint ability, weather resistance and outdoor durability, as well as ease of application and they’re free of any isocyanates and do not carry any hazard symbols.
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Put it together better by talking with the experts! Visitors to the FAST & IASE Exhibitions on 20th October will steal a significant advantage over their competitors by discovering, discussing and evaluating all the latest ideas, innovations and products to have emerged recently in the fields of fastening and adhesives. The FAST Exhibition (Fastening & Assembly Solutions & Technology) showcases all the latest developments in mechanical fastening, and the IASE Exhibition (Industrial Adhesives, Sealants & Encapsulants ) does likewise in the extensive field of bonding and sealing in industrial and engineering applications. Visitors will meet an eclectic portfolio of some of the best suppliers in the business who can help them take advantage of new methods, new processes and new products that have been introduced this year, many of which open up significant new opportunities for design and production teams. The events take place at the centrally-located National Motorcycle Museum Birmingham, adjacent to the NEC, and are open between 0930 and 1500. Exhibition entry is free and so is parking, of which there is plenty. Visitors who pre-register in advance may also take advantage of a free bacon roll and cup of tea if they arrive before 11am, or a complimentary luncheon voucher to use throughout the rest of the day. A free museum pass is also available, saving the normal £8.95 entry fee. Pre-registration can be done at either www.fastenerexhibition.com or by using the adhesives exhibition site at www.adhesives-show.com . One badge covers both events. |
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FAST Magazine Reader Survey – If you are a reader of the quarterly fastening and adhesives journal FAST Magazine, published by the same team that produces www.fastening-solutions.com and organises the FAST & IASE Exhibitions, we’d like you to take part in our 2011 Reader Survey. As responsible publishers we remain keen to ensure that we continue to deliver a quality magazine that is of value to its readers and advertisers, and it would assist us greatly if you would take part by completing the questionnaire.
It can be found at www.fastmagazine.co.uk/survey and will take about five minutes to complete. Every reader taking part in the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win a brand new, latest spec tablet: the draw takes place on November 2nd and the winner will be informed on the 3rd November. The winners name will also be published in the January 2012 edition of FAST Magazine. Whilst you are on the FAST Magazine site you can also either re-register to continue receiving the journal free of charge, or register for the first time if you are a new reader. |
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Wear-resistant plain bearing has green credentials Polymer researcher and bearings specialist igus has developed a plain bearing material that is based on 54 per cent sustainable and natural raw materials. The basic polymer of the new iglidur N54 plain bearing is mainly made of castor oil, rather than finite crude oil. The company’s mechanically and tribologically optimised biopolymer is suitable for universal use in the low-load range.
“The introduction of our iglidur N54 biopolymer marks the first serious step towards ‘green bearings’,” commented Matt Aldridge of igus UK. “The biopolymer is made from crop oil instead of crude oil – you can’t eat it and it’s not biodegradable – but it is an industry first for a technical polymer.” The new bio-bearing fits well within the igus concept of developing environmentally-friendly alternatives for applications that currently work with lubricated metallic plain or roller bearings. iglidur N54 bearings help to not only protect our natural resources, they are self-lubricating so kinder to the environment.
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Preparing for work in manufacturing Industry Awarding organisation EAL has launched a Level 2 Certificate in Preparation for Working in the Engineering Manufacturing Industry. Implemented by Nissan, the certification programme enables learning providers to access funding support for unemployed learners. The qualification is fully accredited by the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF). According to EAL, the qualification draws on employers’ expectations of the knowledge and skills a prospective employee should have, and provides a gateway to those wanting to enter the workplace. Successful learners will cover key areas including understanding the engineering manufacturing environment, the importance of sustainability, demonstrating hand skills, preparing for interviews and solving problems at work, including kaizen and continuous improvement techniques.
Steve Pallas, training and development manager for Nissan Global Training Centre commented: “Before we started this training programme, about 12 per cent of people got through our recruitment process. We’ve now got a success rate of 60 per cent, and we‘ve seen the retention rate improve.”
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Ann Watson, EAL managing director explained: “A career in engineering can open the door to a host of future opportunities. So having this qualification on a CV will show potential employers that a candidate has the basic industry knowledge and skills to make an impression in the workplace, while demonstrating their commitment to on-going development.” | . |
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Clever shear bolt provides tamperproof fixing Pijnacker, Holland based Douwes International claims to have been Europe’s market leader in security screws for over 20 years. And now the company has added the Non – Recess TRF to its SecuFast range.
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Pneumatic applicators have novel multi spray pattern function
Jetflow3 is a multipurpose applicator, which outputs both bead and spray and replicates highly accurate spray patterns, crucial in sectors such as automotive repairers and refinishers. The applicator is simple to change from bead to spray and is claimed to be ideal for use with all conventional and sprayable low to high viscosity sealants. The latest in the Airflow series is a more efficient, modern and aesthetically pleasing applicator, that’s straightforward to use in the application of low to high viscosity sealants. The Airflow3 has a built-in silencer and integrated air connectors. There are no exposed parts and an integrated air pressure regulator allows for a more precise and smooth flow control.
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The SecuFast Non – Recess TRF is a shear bolt that can be fastened with a normal cross recess driver. Once a certain torque is reached, the hexagon head brakes of and removal of the screw is impossible. The shear bolts are available in machine screws M3, M4, M5 and M6 in stainless steel, lengths from 6 – 25 mm.
Specialist applicator manufacturers PC Cox has launched two pneumatic sealant and adhesive applicators, which have been ergonomically designed to be light and comfortable to handle, allowing longer usage time to aid productivity. | . |
Moulded inserts join standard range
The Series 41 is a through-hole moulded-in insert while the Series 45 is a blind-end moulded-in insert. They do not require any specialised insertion tools as the operator places the insert directly into the mould prior to plastic injection. In addition, the company has designed this insert to simplify orientation and placement on to the mould core pin, thereby increasing productivity and reducing potential scrap rates.
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Individual control of multiple carriages on same leadscrew The SLW range of components for assembly systems from linear expert igus UK comprises a standard drylin W slide which is adjustable via a leadscrew for precise movements. The latest addition to this range is the SLW Stop-and-Go.
The drylin SLW Stop-and-Go allows multiple carriages to be on the same leadscrew but controlled separately, offering a significant cost saving to customers. To lock the carriage into position the knob is lifted up, this disengages the nut from the leadscrew and the other carriages are still able to move freely. When the knob is released and pushed back into the carriage, the leadscrew nut re-engages. The slide can be used in a number of industries, such as machine building and automation. The stainless steel system comes with three options of liner – iglidur J for wet environments, iglidur X for high temperatures or iglidur A180 for applications that require FDA approval. It is therefore well-suited to applications in the food and packaging industries. Meet igus at the FAST Exhibition, 20th October 2011, National Motorcycle Museum Birmingham
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A range of inserts from Spirol Industries is intended for use as a placement in a mould prior to plastic injection. The Series 41 and 45 Inserts can be used in applications where torque and pull-out/through resistance are required. They feature a hexagonal head on each end and a large centre undercut, with this design providing a high level of bi-directional torque resistance and high tensile strength.
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Record car sales for BMW boost manufacturing confidence The BMW Group achieved its best-ever August sales results this year with 110,891 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brand vehicles sold worldwide. Sales for the month were up 7.4% compared with 2010 easing fears of a double dip recession, at least in the motor manufacturing industry.
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Handling the alternative approach
Take for example the EMKA 1130, which is an IP65 recessed T-handle with a clip. The product is flush fitting and importantly also has a compression locking function which makes it suitable for vibration prone applications such as road and rail transport. In a similar fashion, rugged good looks are displayed by the 1091 stainless steel heavy duty latch, which is available with key insert or padlock facility and is a good example of ergonomic design – in this case for operation with gloved hands in cold environments.
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The Group’s worldwide sales passed the one million mark in August, with a total of 1,073,363 vehicles delivered to customers since the beginning of the year – an increase of 16.8% compared with the first eight months of the previous year.
Form versus Function is a long running debate. Like it or not Form and Function are intrinsically linked, especially in the case of something we deal with quite as physically as a handle; so iconic in fact that it finds broad application in our everyday language. This intimacy with such an everyday object inevitably gives rise to a strong element of visual interest, of form as well as function. It is this duality of roles that EMKA seek to fulfil in the design of their cabinet handles. | . |
Free protective packaging for fragile deliveries
Specialty chemicals packaged in common metal and plastic containers can be harmed during and after delivery to customers. Leakage caused by damaged packaging can lead to safety issues and hazardous waste disposal. Other problems that impact customer costs may arise, including lost time due to unusable inventory and expensive product returns. Ellsworth Adhesives’ new protective packaging significantly reduces harm to containers and the secondary costs associated with this damage. Key features of the innovative new packaging include premium corrugated cardboard boxes, custom-fitted PK foam inserts that insulate containers inside the box, and recyclable paper padding. The Ellsworth Packaging Advantage guarantees predictable and dependable product quality to all of Ellsworth Adhesives’ valued customers. The packaging is standard for all applicable chemical systems.
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Exclusive distributor announced  Cooke Brothers has become an exclusive distributorship arrangement with one of Germany’s leading hinge manufacturers BaSys and is now the sole UK stockist and distributor of the Pivots series of fully concealed, three way adjustable, four knuckle precision hinges and the Objecta range of heavy duty, high performance, security hinges and receivers.
BaSys has established an enviable reputation throughout Europe for supplying such prestigious developments as the BMW Headquarters in Munich, the Klum Hotel in St Moritz, and the Raiffeisen Bank in Graubunden, Switzerland. Cooke Brothers National Sales Manager Phil Dicken commented: “The addition of the BaSys hinges to our well established Phoenix brand products will certainly open up new untapped opportunities for us. We are already in the process of identifying potential customers whose door and frame specification requires an uninterrupted sight line.” Meet Cooke Brothers at the FAST Exhibition, 20th October 2011, National Motorcycle Museum Birmingham
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Ellsworth Adhesives latest business development involves a new protective packaging system that is now standard for all containers prone to damage during normal shipping and handling. And the company tell us that the service is available at no extra cost to the customer| . |
Instant grab hybrid structural adhesive saves days A two-part hybrid technology structural adhesive from 3M can save significant time when bonding bigHead and general fasteners. Scotch-Weld Epoxy-Acrylic Hybrid Structural Adhesive 7271 B/A has been designed to secure this type of fasteners instantly and is suitable for a wide variety of substrates including composites, GRP, epoxy-based resins, aluminium and stainless steel.
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RFID for tracking components during manufacture
Industrial Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems have emerged as a rugged and reliable way to track and document products as they move through the manufacturing process. Unlike barcode systems used for similar, less demanding applications, industrial RFID systems are designed to withstand harsh environments. Plus, reusable read/write tags allow for flexibility in information and application. Designed to address these needs, the 56RF modular system, which is available from Rockwell Automation, comprises Allen-Bradley ArmorBlock interfaces, transceivers (read/write heads) in sensor housings and a wide selection of re-usable data carrier tags in different styles for standard and special environments. Flexibility and scalability is maximised as ArmorBlock units offer interfaces for one or two RFID channels, standard I/Os and embedded Ethernet switches with device level ring (DLR) function in order to save wiring and installation costs. Rockwell tell us that applications sure to benefit from this new system will include asset tracking; tracking and tracing of raw material, parts, trays, bins, work piece carriers, tooling and containers; intelligent object routing and automotive body assembly, paint and body shops. |
Imran Idrees of 3M’s Industrial Adhesives & Tapes Division commented: “7271 B/A can instantly hold mechanical fixings unlike commonly used two-part acrylic adhesives which can take anything up to three hours to hold fixtures. “Moreover, when compared with pungent, basic entry-level acrylic adhesives this instant grab adhesive is odourless. This eliminates the need for a respirator to protect against odour during use, and can be applied vertically or even upside down without the adhesive dripping.” The biggest cost and time savings are for applications where numerous fixtures need to be bonded.
An Allen-Bradley radio frequency identification, which is based on the open 13.56MHz I-Code standard, delivers a rugged plant floor RFID solution for both tracking and real-time localised data storage, with seamless data communication from shop floor to enterprise systems. What is more, its use of an open standard provides much more flexibility for expansion and integration.| . |
Grey is the new friendly colour for welding electrodes Since ESAB achieved ISO 14001 certification in 2006 for its approach to welding products manufacture, the Group has continuously reviewed its methods environmental impact reduction. The company has recognised that some of the dyes used to colour electrode coatings can be environmentally detrimental.
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Panel fittings for cabinets and furniture
Hinging within the range is offered with a series of mild steel and brass butt hinges coupled with decorative and lift-off types. Specialist screen and presentation case designs provide for those infrequent but otherwise standard needs – for more frequent use there is also a selection of piano hinges in sizes from 25mm to 38mm flat widths and in materials of steel, stainless steel, aluminium and brass. The range also covers highly finished pulls and knobs – complimented by inset mounted flush pulls for sliding doors and panels.
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The decision has therefore been made to remove the green dye used in the coating of the Murex branded Vortic Marine welding electrode. This dye is purely a recognition feature and does not contribute to the welding performance and properties of the product. The coating colour is being changed to grey and the new colour electrodes will be seen as stocks become available through distribution channels. 
Cabinet and furniture hardware specialists FDB Panel Fittings has just launched a range of high quality fittings designed for areas where style and robust use are key to the situation. This would include retail and service environments, corporate offices, high quality equipment and public access facilities such as banks and libraries.| . |
Flexible woodworking machines need standard components Industrial woodworking machines are high precision pieces of equipment with a requirement for great flexibility in the manufacturing process so high quality standard components are likely to be of great value in helping machine manufacturers to reach their goals. An example of a standard machine element is Elesa’s DD52R box indicator, which features a lowered height case especially suited to woodworking machines – they may be assembled by passing onto a machine spindle in any angular position to give a direct reading of the machine component. They are also suitable for motor driven applications.
High strength clamping knobs are often a requirement of woodworking equipment and are catered for in the Elesa range by the VB.639 series which provide up to 130mm dia of rugged leverage for heavy duty operation – where the application of a hammer may be required. Meet Elesa at the FAST Exhibition, 20th October 2011, National Motorcycle Museum Birmingham
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New website for Unifast A revised and simplified website goes live this week for Unifast Fastening Systems, the UK partner of the global fastening solutions company Unifast Srl.
Unifast’s standard range includes FAST turn quick acting fasteners, which are widely used where rapid assembly and disassembly of units is vital or where service access is required. The automotive industry is a major user of quick acting fasteners; the noise shields under motorcars being a prime example. KAPti-nut is a high strength captive threaded fastening system for sheet metal ideally suited to multiple and automated insertion into thin gauge steel, aluminium and pre-finished materials. Unifast also offers weld nuts for high quality and special purpose needs. Meet Unifast at the FAST Exhibition, 20th October 2011, National Motorcycle Museum Birmingham
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The company’s Ergostyle range of machine elements includes the ERM range of adjustable clamping handles in epoxy coated zinc die. These handles are a real advantage where space is tight since they allow partial tightening with a limited arc, then release and reverse to tighten again over the same arc. Other applications include repetitive clamping applications where the speedy ratchet style action greatly enhances operator comfort and productivity.
Unifast is an acknowledged leader in the fastener market and aims to deliver professional, innovative, reliable and economic fastening solutions to customers worldwide. Services on offer include manufacturing planning, design, development, prototyping and laboratory. Unifast specialises in the re-engineering of existing parts, simplifying processes and reducing both process time and overall cost. The company works closely with clients, acting as a partner involved from concept through to the final product. The website at | . |
In-die feeding system installs fasteners during stamping
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Light curing adhesives opens up new design possibilities for mounting components Developments in fastener technology coupled with new light curing adhesives that cure in less than five seconds have combined to create new design and assembly options for plastics components while enhancing quality and reducing manufacturing costs.
The technology is expected to deliver significant benefits to manufacturers in the automotive and electronic industries where it will replace moulded inserts as well as traditional mechanical and heat based fastening methods. Meet Bollhoff Fastenings at the FAST Exhibition, 20th October 2011, National Motorcycle Museum Birmingham
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The Pemserter in-die fastener feeding system has been engineered to install self-clinching nuts, studs, and standoffs in assemblies during the stamping process. Working in tandem with a stamping press to feed and install fasteners, this portable system from PennEngineering eliminates secondary operations typically required for fastener insertions.
International fastening and assembly specialist Bollhoff and industrial adhesives manufacturer Delo have joined forces to introduce Onsert - an innovative fastening system that enables the bonding of fasteners in seconds to a wide range of substrates. The system can be used on most thermoplastics, CRFP (carbon fibre reinforced plastic), SMC (sheet moulding compounds) GMT (glass mat thermoplastics), glass, lacquered or electroplated surfaces, metals, stainless steel and aluminium. As no heat is involved in the light curing process there is no risk of discolouration or deterioration of mechanical properties in the substrate. | . |
