FOCUS ON FASTENERS
TR Fastenings has relaunched its patented EPW self-extruding threadforming screw . The TR EPW creates its own internal thread in thin sheet metal .
manufacturers are expected to gain from this because of the rising demand for lightweight components from automotive manufacturers .
Increased levels of automation in enduser industries , particularly the automotive sector , have fundamentally changed the requirements of fasteners in recent years . In the past , the emphasis of production centred around time , handling and effort , but now the key characteristics are repeatability and tight performance tolerance .
Self-clinch thin sheet stud ( TR Fastenings ).
The increased life expectancy of many end-use products , such as the two-sided galvanization of automotive bodies , better finishes , increased use of plastics and new designs in engines and transmissions , have demanded that fasteners adapt to greater longevity . This has resulted in old practices , such as electroplating and phosphate and oil finishing , being replaced by sophisticated organic coatings . In turn , this has led to adjustments in tightening strategies and torque / tension testing .
According to Transparency Market Research , companies in the industrial fastener market are focusing on novel materials such as carbon fibre and various alloys for the development of corrosion-resistant , lightweight , superconducting industrial fasteners . Hybrid fasteners are also being developed using injection-moulded plastic materials and metals that are lighter , easier to install and costeffective .
UK fastener manufacturer , Clevedon Fasteners , has highlighted some of the most exciting trends and developments shaping the future of fasteners . These include :
■ Advanced materials : Developments in materials science are leading to the creation of fasteners that are lighter , stronger and more resistant to environmental challenges . This includes titanium alloys ( known for their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio , they are becoming increasingly popular in high-performance applications such as aerospace and motorsport ) and composite materials .
■ Innovative coatings : Coatings play a crucial role in enhancing the performance and longevity of fasteners . New considerations for this process include the increased use of nano-coatings , which provide superior protection against corrosion and wear without adding significant weight . These coatings can also reduce friction , improving assembly efficiency . This environmental resistance is particularly essential in industries such as oil and gas , where fasteners are exposed to harsh environments .
■ Additive manufacturing : 3D printing is revolutionising the fastener industry by enabling the production of complex geometries that traditional manufacturing methods may not be able to achieve . This has led to a rise in customisation ( allowing custom fasteners to be tailored for specific applications , reducing waste and lead time ) and lightweight designs ( particularly valuable in aerospace and automotive applications where weight reduction is critical for efficiency ).
■ Smart fasteners : The integration of smart technology into fasteners is a groundbreaking development that enhances their functionality through embedded sensors ( used to predict failures before they occur , improving safety and reliability ) and wireless connectivity ( alerting operators when a fastener requires inspection or replacement , thereby streamlining maintenance processes ).
■ Sustainability initiatives : As industries increasingly prioritise sustainability , fastener manufacturers are adapting their practices . Recycled materials in fastener production are on the rise , helping to reduce environmental impact and conserve resources . Eco-friendly manufacturing aims to minimise waste and energy consumption , contributing to a more sustainable fastener industry . n
Fastener Fair Global
Fastener Fair Global is the international trade exhibition for manufacturers , wholesalers , distributors and suppliers of fastener and fixing technology , taking place every two years in Stuttgart , Germany . This year ’ s event will be held from 25-27 March 2025 . The event covers the entire fastener and fixing industry and provides important insights into industry trends and key information about the recent developments in this sector . For further details , see www . fastenerfairglobal . com
20 | ismr . net | ISMR March 2025