In this issue… What Are Low-Profile Screws? Low-profile screws are made with a lower head height than typical screws. These fasteners are designed with a minimal or flush head that sits close to the surface of the material being fastened — providing low visibility but a secure attachment. These components are also referred to as…
September 2023 Issue: Hybrid solutions: When mechanical anchors meet adhesives
Sift through a few headlines, and you’ll likely come across news about labor shortages in several sectors. The trades are not immune. “Construction Workforce Shortage Tops Half a Million in 2023,” states the Associated Builders and Contractors. “Labor Shortages Forecast to Persist for Years,” predicts The Society for Human Resource Management. Blame what you will:…
April 2023 Issue: Digitalizing Inventory: How automation can save time & money
Transforming thoughts on going digital Digital phobia is a real phenomenon characterized by a discomfort or avoidance of technology and the digital era in general. More seriously known as technophobia or technofear, these digital-laden anxieties are more common than one might think. Although the exact numbers are unknown, research suggests up to one-third of the…
December 2022 Issue: 2022 Fastener Handbook
The value of good advice There’s an old proverb that says, “Good advice is beyond all price.” This might be true, but people generally tend to ignore advice, at least the unsolicited kind. For business owners and entrepreneurs, the reason is simple: they’re too busy working. Overwhelm and multi-tasking means there’s little time for heeding…
September 2022 Issue: How to best solve fastener loosening problems
Mark your calendars When the International Fastener Expo (IFE) launched more than 40 years ago, the aim was to bring manufacturers and distributors of industrial fasteners, precision-formed parts, and machinery tooling together. That goal is still the same. Impressively, IFE was and still is the largest fastener event in North America. What started as a…
July 2022 Issue: Reducing Risks – A practical understanding of hydrogen embrittlement
In May, I attended my first trade show in nearly three years. After months behind a screen, connecting with others via conference calls and Zoom meetings, it took leaving my home office before I realized how much I missed meeting new people and interacting with others — in person. Kudos to Fastener Fair USA for…
April 2022 Issue: The importance of testing concrete anchors
Companies that care Sustainability is on the rise — especially the demand for it. More than ever, companies are asked to show rather than tell, providing evidence of sustainable actions and a reduced carbon footprint. Regulatory standards are also increasing, often requiring businesses to disclose metrics such as emissions. According to the Global Sustainability Study…
December 2021 Issue: 2021 Fastener Handbook
A future with clever bolts “Imagine a future with clever bolts that communicate when tensioned?” This was a phrase spoken at a wind-power conference years ago, long before the digital wind farms of today, many of which are remotely connected and monitored to ensure optimal performance. It was before the popularity of “smart” tools and…
September 2021 Issue: How data and automation can improve production processes
Why resiliency matters Operational resilience is a form of risk mitigation and management. How well does your company anticipate, adapt to, and rebound from unexpected stressors or disruptions? Chances are you found out rather quickly in 2020 as the pandemic impacted everyday life and business. Uncertainty has always been a challenge. Manufacturers and suppliers have…
July 2021 Issue: What causes fastener seizing and galling?
Mark your calendars… “Once you’re in it, it’s tough to leave,” shares Jo Morris, who works with the Fastener Training Institute and Desert Distribution. She’s referring to the fastener industry, which is likely somewhat humorous and mostly true for many working in the sector. Morris has spent her career in fastening, which you can read…