Demand for TR’s self-clinch fasteners has increased by more than 40% over the last five years, says the company, driven by “an extended product portfolio and the addition of new materials and sizes to existing ranges. TR Fastenings has actively promoted these products via its global Master Distributor network, which has also contributed to the growth in sales”.
TR’s self-clinch range includes a variety of studs, nuts, stand-offs and panel fasteners, and now includes the latest additions in the self-clinch products; the clear-hole, unthreaded standoff, that can be used for spacing and stacking; the TRPF11 Panel Fastener, available in different screw lengths and a retainer that offers positive-stop during installation; TRTFH self-clinching studs for applications in sheets as thin as 0.51mm; and TRTSO self-clinching standoffs for sheets as thin as 0.63mm. TR also manufactures self-clinch studs for the automotive industry, with the majority of products made bespoke to drawings.
TR was exhibiting (on Stand 6303) its new range of enclosure fastener products at Blechexpo, including locking systems and components, hinges, quarter turn locks and latches.
The fair takes place on a two-year cycle in the state trade fair centre in Stuttgart (Landesmesse Stuttgart), alongside the Schweisstec trade fair for mechanical and thermal joining. “This pairing makes the show the only event in the world that deals with the complementary technologies of sheet metal processing and joining technology,” adds TR. “The fair has gained in popularity and success over recent years, and now ranks second in the world on the list of trade fairs for sheet metal processing.”
Peter Henning, director of TR Kuhlmann, TR’s operating business in Germany, who was attending the fair, comments: “Blechexpo is one of Germany’s most important sheet metal trade shows, and it takes place in an area of the country that is well known for sheet metal production. As well as boasting a large number of sheet metal companies, the Stuttgart region is also home to over 500 Tier1-4 automotive firms, many of which TR supplies to.
“With our expertise and focus on self-clinch fasteners, and given our status as the leading distributor of these products in Europe, it’s vital that we have a presence at this show. The demand for self-clinch products in Germany alone is over €50,000,000, and the show is a fantastic opportunity for us to further our reputation in the country and make valuable industry connections.”
