WINTER 2022

in the Winter 2022 issue of
6 WE’RE CELEBRATING 45 YEARS!
8 HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT TESTING ON INTERNALLY
THREADED PRODUCTS – ARE YOU NUTS?
Rob LaPointe
10 IT’S A MAD, MAD, TRANSPORTATION WORLD
Chris Donnell
12 DRIVING SYSTEMS FOR FASTENERS – EXTERNAL DRIVES
Bruno Marbacher
14 WHAT FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS NEED TO KNOW
ABOUT STRESS FAILURES
Guy Avellon
16 [COVER FEATURE] BAY SUPPLY: THE FUTURE OF
SELLING FASTENERS IS HERE
24 GAGING SYSTEMS PART 1: SYSTEM 21
Larry Borowski
26 FIVE SIGNS IT IS TIME TO CHANGE SOFTWARE
Dennis Cowhey
28 LINDFAST + SOLUTION INDUSTRIES: TWO LEADERS
IN VALUE-ADDED SERVICE, NOW UNITED
30 OPTIMIZING VERY NARROW AISLES
Robert Footlik
32 FREE SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING TOOLS: CHOICE
PICKS FOR FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS
Joe Dysart
34 RETURNING BACK TO THE OFFICE – WILL IT BE DIFFERENT?
Jim Truesdell
36 CONNECTED FOR LIFE: RCSC HONORS ITS LATEST LIFE MEMBERS
Dani Friedland
40 HOWMET FASTENING SYSTEMS: STRUCTURAL BLIND
FASTENERS HELP ENGINEERS WITH LIGHTWEIGHTING
44 MWFA AWARDS $42,500 IN SCHOLARSHIPS
Nancy Rich
45 MWFA SCHOLARSHIP PHOTOS
46 CAN SOMEONE SLOW THIS ROLLER COASTER DOWN?
Laurence Claus
48 DISTRIBUTION ONE:
FUELING 2022 SUCCESS
THROUGH DISTRIBUTION
TECHNOLOGY AND
E-COMMERCE INVESTMENT
50 PHILLIPS SCREW CO:
HOW TO ACHIEVE A
“STICKING” FASTENER RECESS
TO DRIVER BIT CONNECTION
52 5 WAYS TO THRIVE IN A SHIFTING INDUSTRY WITH
CONSOLIDATING DISTRIBUTORS
Nelson Valderrama
54 PARKER FASTENERS & BTM MANUFACTURING:
#FASTENERBEDCHALLENGE – WHO’S NEXT?
56 IN-PERSON TRAINING EVENTS RETURN FOR 2022
Jo Morris
58 BLIND RIVET FAILURES & SOLUTIONS
Anthony Di Maio
60 ACE BOLT & SCREW: OLD SCHOOL IN A GOOD WAY –
SERVING THE SOUTHEAST SINCE 1969
Dennis Cowhey
62 CLAY WEAVER ELECTED PAC-WEST PRESIDENT
Amy Nijjar
63 PAC-WEST/SFA JOINT CONFERENCE PHOTOS
64 TAX MINIMIZATION ANALYSIS: HOW TO ADVOCATE FOR
CLIENTS SELLING THEIR BUSINESS – PART 1
Roman Basi
66 IFE 2021 RECAP AND 2022 PREVIEW
67 INTERNATIONAL FASTENER EXPO 2021 PHOTOS
68 UNIVERSAL FASTENING SYSTEM ANNOUNCES
REVOLUTIONARY SYSTEM
70 SELLING FASTENERS “IS KIND OF A BIG DEAL”
AT VENTURA INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS
72 SPIROL: SOLID PIN RETENTION FEATURES
Jeff Greenwood
74 FAB GROUP CONDUCTS SUPPLY CHAIN SYMPOSIUM
75 DAGGERZ DELIVERING THROUGH THE SUPPLY CHAIN CRISIS

volume 45 // issue #1
76 THORNBERG TELLS PAC-WEST/SFA – “THIS ECONOMY
HAS MOMENTUM”
John Wolz
80 RECAP OF STAFDA’S ORLANDO 2021 CONVENTION
AND TRADE SHOW
Georgia H. Foley, CEO
81 STAFDA ORLANDO CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW PHOTOS
82 GOEBEL FASTENERS: A LOOK AT THE NEW 18V
LITHIUM-ION CORDLESS TOOL LINE
86 PAC-WEST/SFA PANELISTS: SHORTAGES WILL CONTINUE
John Wolz
88 FASTENER FAIR USA CELEBRATES A SUCCESSFUL
IN-PERSON EVENT IN CLEVELAND, OHIO
89 FASTENER FAIR USA SHOW PHOTOS
90 RAMCO EXPANDS PRODUCTION CAPACITY IN MICHIGAN
90 NCFA SCREW OPEN A SUCCESS!
Dave Audia
121 SUBSCRIPTION FORM
124 NFDA SETS 2022 EVENT CALENDAR
Amy Nijjar
134 FASTENER INDUSTRY WEB LINKS
138 JOIN THE SEFA FOR THE 2022 SPRING CONFERENCE
Nancy Rich
148 SFA HAVING THEIR BEST YEAR EVER!
Baron Yarborough
152 WIFI 2021 ‘WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD’ WINNER
156 NEFDA VIRTUAL HOLIDAY PARTY
Nancy Rich
165 MWFA 2022 BOARD OF DIRECTORS & EVENT SCHEDULE
Nancy Rich
183 DON’T MISS OUR BIG SPRING ISSUE

8
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Rob LaPointe AIM TESTING LABORATORY
Rob LaPointe is a noted authority in materials and fastener technology. With extensive experience
in the management and science of materials testing laboratories combined with master’s degrees in
physics and education, he excels at bringing solutions to the client. Working specifically in the fastener
testing industry, he has developed expertise in mechanical, nondestructive, metallurgical and chemical
testing. With a background of 20 years in physics education, Rob is effective at communicating complex
ideas in a simple and understandable manner, communicating well with clients enabling them to make
informed decisions about their products and business. AIM is located at 1920 Cordell Court #101, El
Cajon, CA, 92020. Tel: 909-254-1278, email: sales@aimtestlab.com or online at www.aimtestlab.com
HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT TESTING ON
INTERNALLY THREADED PRODUCTS - ARE YOU NUTS?
Internal Hydrogen Embrittlement (IHE) in fastener
products can be a serious concern for the safety
of structures and people in or around them. Many
documented cases of unexpected and catastrophic
failure have been linked to hydrogen’s embrittling effect
in high-strength steel fasteners such as A574 and Class
12.9 plated cap screws. Product standards, including
ASTM A574 and plating standards including ASTM F1941
and B633 provide hydrogen embrittlement mitigation and
testing requirements for plated high-strength products.
In nearly all specifications that mention hydrogen
embrittlement as either a warning, mitigation procedure
or testing methodology, the reference to IHE implicitly
or explicitly is referring to externally threaded fasteners
such as bolts and screws.
So why don’t we see more IHE mitigation and
FIGURE 1 - A PLATED HEAVY HEX
NUT COULD BE HARBORING ENOUGH
HYDROGEN TO EMBRITTLE THE STEEL.
TECHNICAL ARTICLE
testing mentioned in
specifications relating
to nuts? Are nuts
capable of failure due
to the presence of
hydrogen?
To answer these
questions, let’s first
go over some of the
basics, including what
hydrogen embrittlement
FIGURE 2 - INTERNAL HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT FAILURE
OCCURRING AT THE FILLET RADIUS OF THE CAP SCREW.
is, its effects on high-strength steel when under a load,
and the application of force when loading internally and
externally threaded fasteners.
Hydrogen embrittlement is a permanent loss of
ductility in a metal or alloy caused by hydrogen in
combination with stress, either externally applied or
internal residual stress [1]. In more basic terms –
when a high-strength steel fastener is under a tensile
(pulling) load and there is sufficient hydrogen in the
metal, it can suddenly fracture even if the load on it is
less than the rated breaking strength of the fastener. A
fastener failure due to IHE is sudden and unexpected.
The fracture occurs where stress in concentrated. For
externally threaded fasteners, the stress is usually
concentrated at the head-body junction, known as the
fillet radius, or at the first exposed thread between the
engaged threads and the head. Figure 2 shows an IHE
failure of a fully threaded cap screw where the fracture
occurred at the fillet radius, which is the location of
greatest stress concentration when tightened.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 92

10
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Chris Donnell
Chris Donnell is the National Sales Director for Scanwell Logistics International (CHI)
Inc., specializing in Supply Chain Management, Inventory Control, Logistics Sales and
Management. Chris excels at selling the “Solution” to advanced program analysis and
implementation. A highly ambitious and effective team leader who thrives on the challenges
of this industry, Chris currently oversees a National Sales and Partnership Program consisting
of more than 100 Sales executives who focus primarily on SCM and Logistics development in
most vertical markets. Contact Chris at 847-228-6789 or email: chrisdonnell@scanwell.com.
IT’S A MAD, MAD, TRANSPORTATION WORLD
For the past 24 months, the logistics world has
suffered through the worst trade “bottleneck” on
record. Cargo owners, whether in the international or
domestic markets, faced a mountain of challenges and,
unfortunately, 2022 (for the most part) will mirror 2021.
The new year will bring new
challenges, but make no
mistake about it, we are on
the road to recovery. Things
will eventually return to a new
normal. Logistics will never go
back to the way things were
pre-pandemic, and that’s for
the stability of the global supply chain, which is a good
thing.
It is important to understand and to adapt to these
critical challenges, otherwise we are bound to repeat
them. I must admit, some of these challenges lack
common sense and some are outside the scope of one’s
control; but, in the end, these challenges will make you
and your company stronger. This is also a good thing.
The first challenge we face entering the new year
is the “Emergency Container Dwell Fee.” You have to
hand it to the logistics world, it never fails to add catchy,
scary names to things in order to stir public opinion.
This fee, introduced by the terminal councils of the ports
of Los Angeles and Long Beach, and backed by the
Biden Administration’s transportation Envoy, assigns a
compounding cost of $100.00 per day to each container
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
sitting past its determined timeline: 9 days for containers
being pulled from the port by truck; and, 6 days for those
moving by rail. Historically, the average dwell time at
these ports pre-pandemic ranged from 4-6 days by truck
and 2 days by rail; however, as of October 2021, that time
increased to 16 days by truck
and 19 days by rail.
Most will see these
costs as another way for the
terminals to take advantage
of the market, to make more
money since the charges
seem out of the control of
the actual cargo owners. But are they, really? As the
saying goes, a few bad apples spoil the bunch. There
are some companies out there that were using the
terminals as a make shift warehouse or staging area
since their own warehouses are over-flowing with cargo.
The enaction of these fees have already made a dramatic
impact - dwell times have been reduced by almost half
and are continuing in a downward trend. The impact
has been so drastic that the terminals have postponed
these fines until the end of November. It’s important to
note, however, that the terminals have already calculated
the fines since November 1 to be in excess of 6 million
dollars. November 1 was supposed to be the date the
fines were enacted, so if the fee was being used by the
terminals solely to make more money, why would they
postpone them?
CONTINUED ON PAGE 94

12
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Bruno Marbacher
Bruno Marbacher earned his mechanical engineering degree in Switzerland, he also holds a
business degree. He started out as a tool and die maker (poly-mechanic) and over the years he
has held various management positions in quality and engineering. During his time in America
he has developed and given numerous seminars on topics related to the proper use of mechanical
fasteners and machine elements, and assists engineers in solving fastening/assembly issues. His
has groomed and directed many young engineers in fastening/assembly technology. He now
offers his 40 years of experience through writing and lecturing.
DRIVING SYSTEMS FOR FASTENERS –
EXTERNAL DRIVES
Dear Reader - In this issue we cover external drives,
there are fewer options with these types of drive.
Whether a bolt or screw works in a certain application
usually comes down to preference. Practicality and
efficiency play a vital role in choosing the right drive.
Again, we list the critical functional features for
reference.
Critical Drive Features
To choose a screw with certain drive there are several
things to be consider. The Critical Functional Features are:
¤ Amount torque it can absorb.
¤ Off-angle driver to drive.
¤ Ease off alignment/engagement
¤ Cam-out, tendency to push driver out.
¤ Durability of drive, repeated assembly
¤ Good Stick fit, hold driver in drive.
¤ The effect of the coatings on driver engagement
¤ Tamperproof, preventing unauthorized access.
¤ Its worldwide availability
External Drives
TECHNICAL ARTICLE
External drives typically do not have a recess in the
head, which can collect water, dirt, or paint, that could
interfere with the insertion of a driver. Some external
drives can be engaged and tightened from the side,
without requiring much clearance for wrenches, Thus,
they can be used in tight spaces. Because the heads
must stand out from the surface of the clamped parts,
they are rarely available in countersunk or flush designs.
Cam-out effect does not apply to external drives.
However, If the head is tapered, it may have a slight
tendency to cam-out.
Square Drive
A square drive is four-sided it can be tightened with an
open-end wrench or an adjustable wrench, they can also
be rotated with 8 or 12-point sockets. Square drives
were common in the 19th and early 20th centuries when
it was easier and cheaper to manufacture them, than
other drives. They are not very common anymore.
Features & Concerns: Square drives can still be
found on pipe plugs and lag bolts that are used for
antique items; some double end studs may be furnished
with a square drive to prevent studs from turning while
the nut is being tightened. Instead of a square, studs
may be provided with a dog point with only to 2 flats,
180° apart. External hexes are now cost-competitive,
they have replaced square drives. Also, railway screw
spikes are furnished with a square drive, the square is
slightly tapered.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 96

14
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Guy Avellon
Guy Avellon has been in MRO and Fastener Distribution for over 30 years, in such positions Sales
Engineer, Chief Engineer, Manager of Product Marketing, Product Engineering & Quality and
Director of Quality & Engineering. He founded GT Technical Consultants where he performs failure
analysis, lectures on fastener safety, works for law firms and designs/audits Quality systems. He is a
member of SAE, is Vice Chairman of the ASTM F16 Fastener Committee, Chairman of the F16.01 Test
Methods Committee and received the ASTM Award of Merit in 2005. Guy can be contacted at 847-
477-5057, Email: ExpertBoltGuy@gmail.com or visit www.BoltFailure.com.
WHAT FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS NEED
TO KNOW ABOUT STRESS FAILURES
There are many different ways a fastener can fail
and the most common is metal fatigue, however, many
stress failures can be attributed to being environmentally
assisted. These are premature failures that are under
the influences of tensile stress and some type of
chemical or harmful environment. The predictive failure
mechanisms are predicated on the types of affected bolt
material employed and the environment, or corrosive
media, subjected to the bolt and joint.
Stress Corrosion Cracking
Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC) is one form of
failure to fasteners and bolted joints whose crack
propagation occurs unnoticed until the final catastrophic
failure. As the name implies, this phenomenon occurs
under the combined conditions of tensile stress and a
corrosive environment.
The environment is of critical importance as it only
takes very small amounts of highly active chemicals to
produce the initiation of cracking sites. These chemicals
include nitrates, alkalis (hydroxides) and sulfides or
ammonia. During the action of SCC, many times the
exterior surface of the fastener material is relatively
unaffected. The corrosive media will attack stress
initiation sites and any corrosion pitting sites. SCC is
basically an anodic cracking mechanism.
Stress concentrations initiate crevice loading
due to high tensile stresses or residual internal
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
stresses from cold working. Fine cracks, which may
be either intergranular or transgranular, will propagate
perpendicular to the applied stress.
A brittle fracture occurs without any plastic
deformation and normally ductile materials will sustain
a brittle fracture at lower stress levels when subjected
to SCC. This is especially true of Body-Centered-Cubic
(BCC) metals which are less densely packed than Face-
Centered-Cubic (FCC) materials.
Typically, your BCC metals include ferritic steels,
alpha irons, chromium and tungsten. The FCC common
metals include aluminum, copper and austenitic steels.
Alloy steels are more susceptible to SCC than just the
base metal and will propagate more rapidly, as these
fasteners will generally be stressed to higher limits.
Other examples would include copper alloys and
bronze which have a tendency to adversely react to
ammonia. Since many pipe fittings and valves are made
of these materials, it is best to avoid their usage on
tanks containing ammonia and some farm implements.
Grade 8 fasteners on a cement mixing truck were
found failing due to SCC. Typically, cement trucks are
washed down with muriatic acid, which is 70% diluted
hydrochloric acid. The trucks are rinsed off with water,
however the fasteners were located in an area that did
not receive a full neutralizing water rinse and which
retained some liquid in the area which initiated the
pitting and subsequent failure.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 98

24
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Larry Borowski President
GREENSLADE & COMPANY INC.
2234 Wenneca Avenue, Fort Worth, TX 76102
TEL 817-870-8888 FAX 817-870-9199
EMAIL sales1@greensladeandcompany.com
WEB www.greensladeandcompany.com
GAGING SYSTEMS PART 1:
SYSTEM 21
Oftentimes we get phone calls or E-mails asking
for help determining how to measure fastener
characteristics. Many times the print specifies a “Gaging
System” that further confuses the customer because
they are unfamiliar with that terminology and what it
means. Others are familiar with the terminology, but
are still unsure about the requirements and differences
between the Gaging Systems. I’d like to help clarify
what a “Gaging System” is as defined by the ASME
B1.3 – 2007 standard, as well as explain the different
Gaging Systems as it applies to product threads. These
systems apply to both internal and external threads.
ASME B1.3 – 2007 is the foundation of “Gaging
Systems”. Both the FED-STD-H28, as well as the
SAE AS8879 standards, refer back to the ASME B1.3
standard for definition on gaging systems. Not only
does it define the various systems, but also includes
detailed charts on what gages are acceptable for each
thread characteristic to be measured. In this Article we
will deal with the simplest of the them, System 21, and
future articles will cover System 22, and System 23 in
the same manner.
ASME B1.3 – 2007, Section 1 defines a gaging
system as: a list of screw thread characteristics
that must be inspected/evaluated to establish the
acceptability of the screw threads on a threaded product
and the gage(s) which shall be used when inspecting/
evaluating those characteristics. In other words, what
needs to be checked and what gage we need to use.
The standard also states that a gaging system SHALL be
defined, and if it is not the supplier and customer MUST
agree on one. We all know that this does not always
happen, but it is a good practice for a customer to be
aware of these gaging systems and demand some kind
of formal inspection procedure for the product they are
purchasing.
When no system is defined, and no inspection is
performed, you get folks after the fact asking whether
there is a default procedure. Just to make it clear, there
is no “default” procedure for an undefined inspection
plan or Gaging System. ASME B1.3 – 2007, section 5(b)
specifically states: There is no implied default gaging
system. Because of this, ASME B18 standards have
specifically addressed this issue and require system 21
inspection on all associated products, with the exception
of Socket products, which require system 22 inspection.
Borrowing the statement from ASME B18.2.1, Section
2.5.5: Thread Acceptability. Unless otherwise specified
by the purchaser, screw threads shall be determined
using thread gaging System 21 in ASME B1.3. This is
why it is important to work that out upfront, rather than
assuming it will just get done.
TECHNICAL ARTICLE
CONTINUED ON PAGE 100

26
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
COMPUTER INSIGHTS INC.
108 Third Street, Bloomingdale, IL 60108
TEL 1-800-539-1233 EMAIL sales@ci-inc.com WEB www.ci-inc.com
FIVE SIGNS IT IS TIME TO CHANGE SOFTWARE
by Dennis Cowhey
[1] Your Company Has Grown
Starting a new company is both exciting and
challenging. In the early stages, a substantial amount
of time is often spent choosing best practices and
procedures. During this trial and error phase, you learn
what you need and what is not necessary. When dealing
with a relatively small number of customers, products,
and vendors, you might effectively handle everything
without a sophisticated system. In the beginning,
manual procedures, spreadsheets, one-size-fits-all offthe-shelf
software, or a mix of the three can be enough
to get through the day. Successful companies commonly
start off this way. In the second or third year, they reach
a tipping point where the owners spend more time
keeping track of internal things and less time growing
their business.
Suppose you are at a point where you feel like
you need to hire more people to keep up with your
company’s growth. In that case, it is time to consider if
a better system will help your existing people be more
efficient and accurate.
Stop chasing paperwork and free up your time
to pursue new sales and work on your company with
The Business Edge TM
by Computer Insights, Inc. The
Business Edge, TM
from the start, has been designed to
help fastener and industrial distributors
do more, in less time, with fewer people.
Twenty-five years of industry focus
makes a difference. Whether you need
to keep track of 30,000 SKU’s or
over 500,000, if you have 2,000
customers or over 50,000 - The
Business Edge TM
will help you
stay on top of everything.
Every part of The Business Edge TM
is truly integrated
with every other aspect. As people perform their daily
tasks, the general ledger and financial reports update
automatically. Product locations, lot numbers, and
quality documents are tracked at every step and are
always easy to access. Customer notes and CRM
Actions are available on every screen you need them. A
single system eliminates double entry and time wasted
searching for answers to both common and unique
questions.
[2] Not Getting The Support You Need
You can waste valuable time playing phone tag. You
have work to do; your ERP software system should make
your life easier, not more complicated. Do you get a ticket
number instead of a solution when you call your software
provider? When your calls are answered by someone
who immediately sends you into a complicated ticketing
system, you have more problems than the question that
prompted your call.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 102

30
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Robert Footlik
Robert B. Footlik, PE is a retired Professional Industrial Engineer. With over 50 years’
experience as a Warehouse and Logistics Consultant to a wide variety of clients including
Fastener Distributors, Bob has a wealth of valuable information for our industry and he is
willing to share it. While Footlik & Associates is now closed, his expertise is still available
to his friends and our readers. For friendly advice, a second opinion or just to start a
conversation, he can be reached at robert@footlik.net.
OPTIMIZING VERY NARROW AISLES
Materials Handling and warehouse layout involves
balancing and trading time, manpower, capital and
aggravation. For any distributor, with a limited budget of
these four factors, designing an efficient operation will
always involve compromises.
Let’s Start With A Quiz
[1] Does your operation
service an active counter or will
call trade?
[2] Is there still space available
for storage and operations?
A yes answer to either of these
questions means that you should
turn the page and go to another
article. Very Narrow Aisles (VNA)
are not going to be an appropriate
solution in your context.
Conventional fork trucks
require aisles of 12’-0” to 15’-0”, depending on wheel
configuration, driver position and capacity. Any aisle
width under 9’-6” is regarded as “narrow aisle.” Reducing
the rack storage spacing to less than 8’ is considered a
VNA layout. Analyzed strictly on the basis of minimizing
space, VNA will usually optimize the theoretical utilization
of space. In the real world, however, cramming the
maximum inventory into a tighter configuration can be
efficient only under the right marketing conditions.
Ċan VNA Be Implemented In Your Space?
The minimum requirements are:
¤ Ceiling heights of 26+ feet clear.
¤ Floor thickness of 8” unless on highly compacted soil.
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
¤ Fibre-Mesh or properly placed steel reinforcing
in the concrete.
¤ Early suppression, fast response (ESFR) fire
protection sprinkler system.
¤ Aisle length in excess of 150’.
If any of these basic conditions are missing turn the
page and go on to next article.
Some Basic Considerations
VNA falls into two distinct
systems, man-aboard and fully
automated. A case can be made for
both operationally and use the same
underlying principles for optimal
operation. Over the years I have
often referred to “family groups” of
products as an appropriate place to
start any warehouse improvement
project, but VNA is most viable for
Fastener Distributors who specialize in Original Equipment
Manufacturer (OEM) supply. In this context traditional
family groups such as stove bolts, machine screws, Grade
8, stainless, etc. are irrelevant. What counts is how your
customers group their purchases.
While manufacturing farm equipment, heavy
construction machinery and military hardware might
have some fastener commonality, each product line has
uniquely engineered components that are purchased in
accordance to contracts and forecasts. This can work
for you or against you operationally. Data mining for
customer order trends is both an opportunity to partner
with your customers and an excellent starting point for
optimizing product placement.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 104

The DPA Buying Group
welcomes 14 new distributor
members to its industrial &
contractor supply division:
*Contractors Supply of
Central Florida, Inc, FL
*Corbitt Safety Surplus, AL
*CW Supply & Logistics LLC, OH
*Darrell Ifft (dba Fairbury
Fastener & Supply, IL
*Eastman Products, IN
*Empire Hardware &
Machinery Co, NY
*Metro Products, Inc, MN
*Pioneer Products, Inc, NY
*Radco Supply, KY
*Royal Brass & Hose, TN
*Savage Surplus, MN
*Southwestern Supply
Company, AZ
*Stanley Industries, Inc, MI
*Tri-J Tool & Fastener, Inc, TX
DPA has also added nine
new preferred suppliers since
the beginning of the year:
*Alliance Hose & Rubber Co, IL
*BESSEY Tools North
America, ON
*Bon Tool Co, PA
*Energizer Canada, ON
*Jobsite Caddy, IN
*Komelon USA, WI
*Mi-T-M Corporation, IA
*Precision Staffing Services, OH
*Rust-Oleum Corporation, IL
The DPA Buying Group
is a North American buying
and networking organization
comprised of more than
1100 distributors and 200
preferred suppliers in the
Industrial, Janitorial, Safety,
Public Safety, Packaging
and Restoration product
industries.
For more info contact
DPA Toll-free at 1-800-652-
7826, or visit them online at
www.DPAIndustrial.com.
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 31

32
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Joe Dysart
Joe Dysart is an Internet speaker and business consultant based in Thousand Oaks,
California. A journalist for 20 years, his articles have appeared in more than 40
publications, including The New York Times and The Financial Times of London.
During the past decade, his work has focused exclusively on ecommerce.
Telephone: 631-256-6602; web: www.joedysart.com; email: joe@dysartnewsfeatures.com
FREE SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING TOOLS:
CHOICE PICKS FOR FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS
Fastener distributors looking to engage customers
on social media without adding another expense to their
marketing budgets are in luck: There are plenty of prograde,
social media marketing tools you can use that are
absolutely free -- forever.
Of course, these top-level solution providers -- some
of the most popular in the
digital space -- are offering
free plans to entice you to
ultimately trade-up to their
paid offerings.
But if your plan right
now is simply to engage in a
moderately aggressive social
media marketing campaign
-- or to get a feel for social
media marketing before it
becomes an expense line in
your marketing budget, these
tools are the perfect solution.
Says Daniel Ku, CEO,
PostBeyond, a social media
marketing firm: “If you want to
connect and engage with your
future customers, you have to
be where they are. And that’s largely on social media.”
Probably the number one reason fastener distributors
will most likely be attracted to free social media marketing
tools is that they enable you to schedule multiple posts
about your business during a single, log-on session.
That’s an incredible time-saver when you consider the
alternative: Logging onto Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or
another social media network every single time you want
THERE ARE PLENTY OF PRO-GRADE SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING TOOLS
YOU CAN USE THAT ARE ABSOLUTELY FREE
IT’S DIFFICULT TO REMEMBER A TIME WHEN PEOPLE WERE NOT
OBSESSED WITH SMARTPHONES AND SOCIAL MEDIA
to make a marketing post about your business.
You’ll also find that the free plans are fairly generous
when it comes to scheduling posts. AgoraPlus, for example,
enables you to schedule up to 40 posts-per-month,
absolutely free. And Buffer, Crowdfire and Later each
enable you to schedule up to 30 posts-per-month for free.
Indeed, should you
decide to try out all four of
those social media marketing
tools simultaneously, you’ll
be able to schedule a total
of 120 posts-per-month -- or
four marketing posts-per-day
-- absolutely free.
For fastener distributors,
the ability to log on once-amonth
to four free tools so
they can schedule four-postsper
day for the next 30 days
may be all the social media
management they ever need.
Besides post scheduling,
many of these social media
marketing tools also offer
analytics on your posts, in
terms of who’s clicking on them, whether or not your
posts are driving more traffic to your Web site or other
digital property, which social media network is delivering
the most traffic for you -- and more.
Plus some of the tools -- such as Crowdfire -- will help
you find articles and other content on the Web, which
you can summarize and turn into posts to help keep your
brand top-of-mind with your customers on social media.
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
CONTINUED ON PAGE 106

34
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Jim Truesdell
James Truesdell is President of Brauer Supply Company, a distributor of specialty
fasteners, insulation, air filtration, and air conditioning with headquarters in St. Louis.
Mr. Truesdell is adjunct professor at Saint Louis University and Webster University.
An attorney and frequently published writer, he is the author of “Total Quality
Management: Reports From the Front Lines”.
RETURNING BACK TO THE OFFICE -
WILL IT BE DIFFERENT?
Over the past few months companies have been
calling their workers back to their offices after a year
or more of remote work necessitated by the pandemic.
Many distributors and supply chain participants look at
the anxieties and problems of these companies and
their workers with a bit of a smile. As people who are
responsible for putting the goods on the shelves across
America, they and their employees have generally
been the “essential employees” who never stopped
coming to the physical workplace. Adopting the requisite
protocol for masking, social distancing and the like,
they have answered the bell every morning to keep the
pipeline flowing and the parts counters open. While
supply chain salespeople have often been unable to
make in person calls on their customers, many have
adapted their routines to a more customer service
troubleshooting style to help their customers cope with
the challenges presented by the pandemic and all the
chaos and confusion it has wrought. Sometimes this
has meant making up for the declining customer service
support from manufacturers and financial, marketing
and collateral services who have gone remote or laid off
staff, or whose production lines have been pared down
due to labor shortages as workers were able to exist on
enhanced government benefits for the duration.
During this period we have all learned to navigate
the world of remote meetings, electronic communication
and Power Point to a far greater degree than previously.
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
Large segments of the country have had a crash course
in digitalization, especially due to their children’s being
educated remotely and the learning curve all parents
had to climb to make this possible. As a result, many
people have discovered that much of their actual work
can be done remotely (though the jury is still out as
to whether or not their companies and customers are
better off). Obviously a lot of companies have made
the determination that a collective office environment is
best, which is why they are calling people back despite
a goodly number of those workers pushing back, having
become comfortable with the flexibility and freedom of
working from home in whatever location that may be.
The result seems like it will be a hybrid with
workers coming into their offices a certain number of
days per week with other days plugged in remotely. In
an environment where there is a worker shortage and
employees have more leverage, companies have to
offer this solution as a necessity to keep and retain
employees. Remote work and flexibility appears to be
particularly attractive to younger workers who are raised
on digital communication and who balk at the structure
of the eight hour workday and daily commute. Companies
may want their workers to be in the office because it
promotes collaboration, commitment, networking and
loyalty-----but forcing workers to come in against their
wishes breeds hostility and disengagement. It is a
quandary that needs to be resolved.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 108

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 35

36
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Dani Friedland
Dani Friedland is the Director
of Marketing Communications
for the American Institute of
Steel Construction. She can
be contacted by email at
friedland@aisc.org
Reproduced
from AISC’s Modern Steel
Construction, November 2021 Issue
CONNECTED FOR LIFE:
RCSC HONORS ITS LATEST LIFE MEMBERS
The next time you look at a bolted connection,
be sure to take a moment to thank Larry Kloiber, Tom
Murray, Bill Thornton, Ray Tide, and Joe Yura.
The Research Council on Structural Connections (aka
the Bolt Council) recently named them Life Members—
i.e., active Council members whose extraordinary
contributions have earned them honorary memberships
for life. RCSC has now bestowed this honor upon only
eight individuals, total.
“We write a document that’s fundamental to steel
construction,” said RCSC Chair Salim Brahimi, PEng,
PhD, who is also director of engineering and technology
at the Industrial Fasteners Institute. “It’s a very important
document, way beyond our immediate vision in North
America or in the U.S. The contributions of these five
new Life Members have to be seen as foundational to
the bolting aspect of steel construction.”
And that foundational document covers a lot of
ground. Each new version of its specification tackles not
only technological innovations—recent changes have
involved coatings and a new tightening method—but
also constant efforts to refine the existing code to make
it more helpful.
“We continually try to look at issues that happen
on the job and try to clarify and write more stringent
code to reduce the problems that happen in the shop
and in the field,” said RCSC director and AISC chief of
engineering staff Tom Schlafly. “These five members
have all worked on various AISC committees and task
forces throughout the years, contributing to several key
specifications, and several of them have won AISC’s
highest honors.” “Building things is often taken for
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
granted,” said Brahimi. “We’ve taken for granted the fact
that we can build our roads, our bridges, anything—just
building, making things—is such a basic thing. It doesn’t
happen without a lot of expertise and work. It’s not just
worthwhile. It’s a noble thing to do, to be the builders in
our society. These people are among the leaders of that
field.” Read on for profiles of each of the five new RCSC
Life Members.
Lawrence A. Kloiber, PE,
Former Chief Engineer and
President, LeJeune Steel
Company
Larry Kloiber has been
involved in designing,
fabricating, and erecting
structural steel for over 55
years, first as an AISC engineer and then with the
LeJeune Steel Company as chief engineer and president.
While at LeJeune, he directed connection design
and fabrication on projects such as the Minneapolis
Convention Center and the Mall of America, along with
work on numerous high-rise office buildings, arenas, and
industrial buildings.
Larry is the author of numerous papers on the
design, fabrication, and erection of structural steel and
has lectured in more than 50 cities in the U.S., Canada,
and Europe. He is a co-author of the Handbook of
Structural Steel Connection Design and Details as well
as the second edition of AISC Design Guide 1: Base
Plate and Anchor Rod Design and AISC Design Guide 36:
Design Considerations for Camber.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 112

40
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
HOWMET FASTENING SYSTEMS
800 S State College Boulevard, Fullerton, CA 92831 USA
TEL 714-871-1550 EMAIL info@howmet.com WEB www.hfs.howmet.com
STRUCTURAL BLIND FASTENERS HELP ENGINEERS
WITH LIGHTWEIGHTING
The call for lightweighting has led
to significant advancements in how
we design and construct vehicles.
Technology gains have resulted in
new and exciting possibilities, but they
have also created unique problem
sets. The move toward increased
aluminum usage in vehicles is one
example. While it is widely accepted
that aluminum improves fuel economy
and agility, aluminum also poses joint
design challenges. The lessons learned
while fastening steel bodies do not
translate to the new aluminum joints,
since aluminum behaves differently
than steel. Based on this fact, even accepted practices
like welding must be re-thought. Fortunately, proven
technologies already exist to replace, and even improve
upon, now incompatible practices.
Enter structural blind fasteners. They have been used
in many critical joint applications for decades, including
widespread usage in aerospace, proving their reliability.
The availability of carbon steel, aluminum, and stainless
steel variations make structural blind fasteners a viable
option for joining a multitude of materials, including
aluminum. Installation of structural blind fasteners does
not require the extensive training required for other
joining technologies, and their captive subcomponents
eliminate the “squeak-and-rattle” caused by other types
of fasteners.
You may ask: “Why try something new, when I know
and trust adhesives or welding?” This article will explore
the benefits and drawbacks of these technologies, and
compare them to the benefits of structural blind fastening.
Adhesives
For manufacturers who must join dissimilar
materials, adhesives are an attractive option.
Application is usually simple and straightforward. These
adhesives form consistent bonds between both similar
and dissimilar materials, while only nominally adding
to the weight of the structure. Additionally, adhesives
can be applied along the perimeter of a joint to lend
additional strength and provide a measure of protection
from contaminants.
One can choose from a broad selection of adhesive
products for use in a number of applications. However,
these options must be carefully evaluated, as many can
be costly. Also, bonding times can be extensive, and
if the adhesive is not applied consistently and cured
properly, the resulting bond could be unreliable. When
adhesives are used, a careful review of each joint must
be performed.
TECHNICAL ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 114

44
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
MID-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION
PO Box 5, Lake Zurich, IL 60047
TOLL-FREE 1-800-753-8338 TEL 847-438-8338 EMAIL mwfa@ameritech.com WEB www.mwfa.net
MWFA AWARDS $42,500 IN SCHOLARSHIPS
By Nancy Rich
The MWFA held their annual Scholarship awards on
November 4th. Ryan Sweeney, former Major League
Baseball outfielder joined the group to address the
attendees especially students sharing his experiences
leading to his profession. He played in Major League
Baseball for the Chicago White Sox, Chicago Cubs,
Oakland Athletics, and Boston Red Sox.
Awarding scholarships and helping to further education
has always been very important to the MWFA. We thank
Glen Brin/Innovative Components, Wayne Wishnew/
XL Screw, Matt Delawder/SWD & Jake Davis/BTM Mfg.
for taking the time to serve on this committee. We
appreciate their dedication in reviewing the applications!
To date the MWFA has awarded $854,500 in
scholarships. In addition to the MWFA fund raising efforts,
we thank companies and families donating scholarships
making it possible to award larger scholarships to several
applicants.
$1,500 Scholarships
Ryan Baxter, son of Lisa Baxter of Crown Screw &
Bolt. Corp. Ryan is a high school senior planning to go into
Technical/Civil Engineering.
Natalie Brett, daughter of Marty Brett of World
Washer & Stamping and Dolly Brett. Natalie is a freshman
at the University of Mississippi studying Dietetics and
Nutrition.
Issayana Camacho, daughter of Guillermo Delgado
of Kanebridge Corp. She is a junior at Rutgers University
majoring in Marketing and minoring in International
Business.
Madison Davis, daughter of Rebeka Davis of
Eurolink. Madison is currently at the University of South
Carolina Upstate working on her bachelors in Exercise
Science.
Jillian Lesieur, daughter of Brian Lesieur of Crescent
Manufacturing. Jillian attends Lesley University where she
is pursuing her degree in Fine Arts in Graphic Design.
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
Cailean Nolan, daughter of Adam Nolan of Metric
& Multistandard Components. Cailean is a college
freshman in the Nursing Program at Mount Saint Mary
College.
Olivia Wesling, daughter of Paul Wesling of SWD
Inc. Olivia is a high school senior planning to study
computer animation and Graphic Design in college.
$2,000 BTM Manufacturing Scholarship
Anika Woelffer, daughter of Kurt Woelffer of
Endries International. Anika is a college freshman at
the University of Alabama where she is majoring in Pre-
Physical Therapy, a career she chose after dealing with
her own challenges after a knee surgery.
$2,000 Abbott Interfast Scholarship
Skylar Dorsey, daughter of Kameron Dorsey
of Beacon Fasteners and Components. Skylar is a
high school senior planning to study Accounting and
Environmental Science in college. She’d like to pursue a
career that combines both her love of math and science.
$2,000 Mike & Carol O’Connor Scholarship
Mike and Carol O’Connor owned and operated
Innovative Components for more than 25 years. As
strong supporters of apprentice programs and continuing
education, they are pleased to fund this MWFA
scholarship. The scholarship is intended specifically to
benefit individuals who are interested in manufacturing
and want to build a long-term career in the Fastener
Industry.
This scholarship was awarded to Philip Minniti
Jr. employee of Buckeye Fastener. Philip is pursuing a
degree in Business Administration. His plan is to utilize
his education to being able to make a significant change
follows a quote from Henry Ford: “Coming together is
a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working
together is success.”
CONTINUED ON PAGE 116

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 45
MID-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION
SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS DINNER - NOVEMBER 4, 2021

46
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Laurence Claus
Laurence Claus is the President of NNi Training and Consulting, Inc. He has 25 years of
experience with a medium sized automotive fastener manufacturer, holding positions
including Vice President of Engineering, General Manager, Director of Quality, Director
of New Business Development and Applications Engineer. In 2012 he formed NNi
offering technical and business training courses as well as technical consulting, expert
witness and consultation work. He can be reached at 847-867-7363 or by email:
Lclaus@NNiTraining.com. You can learn more about NNi at www.NNiTraining.com.
CAN SOMEONE SLOW THIS ROLLER
COASTER DOWN?
As Fastener Fair 2021 wrapped up, it was wonderful
to see the fastener community coming back together
again. Old friends and acquaintances were able to chat
with one another and attendees were able to visit with
potential new business partners. Although masks were
mandated, few attendees showed fear that the COVID
virus could be raging amongst the aisles and booths.
Overall it heralded a feeling that normalcy, at least related
to the pandemic, might be on the horizon.
As wonderful as this felt, as we emerge from this
pandemic, the fastener industry is facing some absolutely
momentous and unprecedented challenges. In fact, after
hearing months of experts predict when and how we
would emerge from the pandemic, I’m not sure anyone
was prepared for some of the challenges we have before
us today.
In the 2000 movie, “The Perfect Storm”, an all-star
cast memorialized the true story of the Andrea Gail, a
commercial fishing trawler lost at sea in a massive and
powerful storm that hit the east coast in October of 1991.
The storm, a confluence of Hurricane Grace moving from
the south and a massive low pressure system from the
north, would spawn a greater and even more powerful
storm than either system alone. Sebastian Junger, the
author of the 1997 book from which the movie was based
and its title taken, unknowingly birthed a new term, “a
perfect storm”, we commonly use in our vocabulary today
to describe any time separate and powerful forces come
together to create a devastating and memorable event.
It would seem that just such an event is currently
occurring in the fastener world. Confluences of multiple
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
business forces, political and governmental oversight,
and unintended consequences of the pandemic have
come together, provoking an awkward and difficult time
for fastener distributors and manufacturers alike.
Raw Material Shortages
About a month ago I reached the five thousand
mile mark on my car since its last oil change, and so
scheduled an appointment with the dealer to get it in for
this simple preventative maintenance measure. I look
forward to bringing the car in for an oil change because
it gives me an opportunity to check out the new cars
and pick-up trucks displayed in the dealer’s showroom.
I’m especially fond of pick-up trucks, so was looking
forward to being able to check out the new models. To
my utter amazement I walked from the service area into
the showroom and was greeted by a long, empty room.
In fact, I could have thrown a ball from one end of the
showroom to the other without hitting anything, except
perhaps a hapless sales person, in-between. Where
were the cars, I wondered? I wandered outside and only
then noticed that almost every car had a previous model
year sticker in the windshield and they were parked at
strategic angles to make the lot look fuller than in reality
it was. I could not believe my eyes, not a new car in
sight.
Of course I had been hearing about the impact on new
car production because of the shortage of semiconductor
computer chips needed to control important systems
and functions on the car. I had not realized, though, how
widespread the problem had become.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 118

48
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
DISTRIBUTION ONE
4004 Church Road, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
TEL 856-380-0629 FAX 856-222-0061 EMAIL info@distone.com WEB www.distone.com
FUELING 2022 SUCCESS THROUGH DISTRIBUTION
TECHNOLOGY AND E-COMMERCE INVESTMENT
2022 is finally here. While there’s increased
optimism for the new year, the supply chain is expected
to be an ongoing balancing act. How do you prepare and
what changes can you make now to overcome these
challenges moving forward?
Since 2019, most distributors have experienced
distribution process disruptions related to everything
from inventory stock outs and purchasing availability
to fulfillment delays and user productivity declines.
Couple that with staffing reductions and inconsistent
customer sales, and it’s easy to see that distributors are
desperate for a return to stability. Yet, as the pendulum
swings back and companies are returning to hiring
mode, they cannot afford to place new employees into
the same outdated legacy systems with acknowledged
weaknesses.
According to the report “Adding Value in a Post-
Pandemic World,” wholesale distributors generally
have positive expectations on 2022 but with some
caveats related to ongoing product availability and labor
shortages. A direct result of the pandemic is that 53% of
respondents “plan to invest more in digital capabilities
than previously expected.”
This Statistic Highlights 2 Important Truths
[1] The pandemic is forcing a significant number
of companies to reevaluate their current business
strategies.
[2] Increased investments in digital capabilities
are the only viable way ahead for a majority of the
companies surveyed.
This change in mindset is both telling and expected.
Normally, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” is the typical
guiding mantra companies use to put off needed
technological investments. However, the aftershocks
from the pandemic have proven that more can and
should be done quickly in order for companies to
position themselves to prosper.
More than ever, fastener industry wholesalers and
distributors understand that success in 2022 relies on
implementing whole-company ERP (Enterprise Resource
Planning) technologies to alleviate their existing pain
points, enhance user productivity, deliver data-driven
analytics, and expand selling opportunities. In addition
to the benefits of a unified, end-to-end distribution
process system, ERP business software needs to deliver
these crucial tools for succeeding in 2022.
User Experience And Productivity
Working with a smaller staff requires productivity
gains provided by ERP technologies. When navigating
business system screens, users require access to
accurate business data as well as operational simplicity.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 120

50
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
PHILLIPS SCREW COMPANY
1 Van De Graaff Drive, Burlington, MA 01803
TEL 781-224-9750 WEB www.phillips-screw.com
HOW TO ACHIEVE A “STICKING” FASTENER
RECESS TO DRIVER BIT CONNECTION
We all know the
frustration of trying to hold
a screw on to a screwdriver
or driver bit along with trying
to hold a bracket or hinge in
place, nine times out of ten
one of the components drops
on the floor and the process
starts again. In an industrial
automation environment, it’s
slightly different in that you
need a different method to
hold onto the screw without it
dropping off and having a hole
with a missed fastener.
Traditionally magnetic bits or vacuum suction
systems have been used, but they have their own
drawbacks. You can’t use magnetic bits with stainless
or non-ferrous screws and vacuum systems can wear
needing constant attention with associated assembly
downtime. So, how do you “stick” a screw to a bit so that
it doesn’t drop onto the assembly area or factory floor?
Well, it’s all in the geometry. The images below show the
geometric interference between the driver bit and screw
recess. This interference creates the “stick” effect.
A combination of clever tolerancing, precision tooling
and heading and strict quality control, combine together
to create drive systems with the following benefits:
¤ no dropped fasteners in the assembly area
and on factory floor
¤ reliable one-handed application of screws at
point of assembly
¤ magnetic bits or vacuum screw holders not
necessary
The regions of interference are located on the inner
surfaces of the driver bit, this negates wear on the
wings/lobes of the bit ensuring that it does not wear
prematurely and slip out of the recess. The slip effect is
known as “cam-out”.
There are other geometric interference systems that
use a button at the end of the driver bit which interferes
with an extended recess in the bottom of the primary
recess. This system works but, has the drawback of
increasing the total recess depth thus reducing the wall
thickness between the recess and the screw shank
creating a weaker screw.
If you want to save time and have less waste (who
doesn’t) contact the Phillips Screw Company!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Illustrated designs are covered by one or more patents held by Phillips Screw Company.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
PHILLIPS SCREW COMPANY

52
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Nelson Valderrama
Nelson Valderrama is the CEO of Intuilize, a software Service platform that specializes
in helping mid-sized distributors transform data into profits. With more than 22 years’
experience as P&L manager executive for major PE firms and industrial distributors.
Nelson has dedicated his career to help business uncover hidden competitive advantages
and unleash the power of data in the new Digital Economy. For more information
contact by email nelson@intuilize.com or visit www.intuilize.com
5 WAYS TO THRIVE IN A SHIFTING INDUSTRY WITH
CONSOLIDATING DISTRIBUTORS
For many decades, our industry has been rife
with small family-owned distributors. Today we see
consolidation as large players buy up smaller competitors
or private equity firms take over for these companies in
acquiring other businesses to expand their reach across
different regions of expertise. However, within the last
decade or so merger and acquisitions have accelerated at
an even more rapid pace than before - this trend will likely
continue because there are still plenty opportunities left
out on both sides of town that offer new challenges.
Small distributors receive calls or emails practically
every day from parties interested in purchasing or
partnering with the family business.
There are many reasons why this is happening. Some
people just want to retire and have their estate plan in
place, while others might lack resources or the energy
required for competition with companies that excel online
(i.e., e-commerce, Artificial intelligence, marketplaces,
etc). This consolidation has put increasing pressure on
many small and midsize distributors, pushing them to find
ways to counter shrinking margins and competition from
much larger players.
This article gives a list of tips for CEOS and GMs
in forward-thinking companies that want to collaborate
well with their distribution businesses. It also provides
information on how they can effectively harness
innovations while aligning both organization behind it
as well so there’s no risk or hesitation when taking
risks needed within the company due this consolidating
industry trend.
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
Tip #1- Attract And Retain Talent, Your
Ultimate Competition Advantage
Legendary coach Vince Lombardi once said: “Coaches
who can outline plays on a blackboard are a dime a
dozen. The ones who win get inside their player and
motivate.” As in so many instances, sports personnel is
a perfect microcosm of the business world. Right now,
there’s a highly competitive market out there for great
talent, and if any team wants to keep them for the long
term, it takes motivation, direction, conditioning and a
proper investment in them!
Steve Jobs famously claimed that a small team of
“A+” players can run circles around a giant team of “B”
and “C” players. Jack Welch (who I had the tremendous
privilege to work for) said that “no company, small
or large, can win over the long run without energized
employees who believe in the mission and understand
how to achieve it”.
All of this is to point out something fairly obvious but
something we are all overlooking far too casually: COVID-
19 has flooded pool of available talent and suddenly a
huge wave of motivated forward thinkers are ready to join
new businesses and drive growth. As management guru
Jim Collins has shown us, making the leap from good to
great starts with getting the right people on the bus.
If you want your team to operate at its peak potential,
you need to think about how each piece fits together. Your
need to develop, hire and align your talent to ensure that
the stars can shine — and that means putting the right
support systems in place.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 122

54
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
PARKER FASTENERS
TEL 623-925-5998
EMAIL sales@parkerfasteners.com
WEB www.parkerfasteners.com
BTM MFG
TEL 1-800-369-2658
EMAIL sales@btm-mfg.com
WEB www.btm-mfg.com
#FASTENERBEDCHALLENGE - WHO’S NEXT?
Parker Fasteners, cold forging
manufacturer of socket head cap screws and
related products, held their first annual Sleep
in Heavenly Peace build in August 2021.
Sleep In Heavenly Peace (www.shpbeds.
org) is a national service organization who
partners with businesses and organizations
to organize bed building events for children who do not
have beds to sleep in. Parker Fasteners donated over
$14,000, hosted over 130 volunteers and successfully
built over 90 beds at their facility. The staff at Parker
Fasteners was so impressed with the outcome and
the difference made in the community, that the
#fastenerbedchallenge was born. The idea being, get as
many fastener related companies as possible involved in
the wonderful organization to end
bedlessness throughout the United
States. The first company who
answered the call, to act for kids in
need was BTM Manufacturing and
ISSCO, Inc., in the Kansas City area. Jake
Davis quickly contacted his local chapter of
Sleep in Heavenly Peace and in the matter
of two months, completed a build of their
own, on October 30th.
On a brisk, but sunny, Saturday
morning, BTM Manufacturing and ISSCO,
Inc. officially accepted the #fastenerbedchallenge. With
over 60 co-workers and community volunteers on-hand,
50 beds were made in just a few hours. All of us enjoyed
lunch together too. This opportunity would not have
happened without being pushed by our friends at Parker
Fasteners and we are already looking forward to hosting a
much larger build in the spring of 2022. It was an amazing
opportunity to help a great organization that continues
to fight child bedlessness
throughout this country. Now,
who is next in accepting the
#fastenerbedchallenge?
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 55

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 55
PARKER FASTENERS & BTM MANUFACTURING #FASTENERBEDCHALLENGE - WHO’S NEXT? from page 54
All three companies, Parker Fasteners, BTM
Manufacturing and ISSCO are eager to plan their next
building events in 2022. Nothing would be better than
to see other fastener companies join their local Sleep
in Heavenly Peace Chapter and continue the fight to end
bedlessness in their own communities. The events are
not hard to host. All that is needed is 30-50 volunteers,
a decent sized
parking lot and
the team at SHP
will provide all
necessary tools
and supplies. A
donation from the
hosting company
or from other local
companies will also be required to allow for the purchase
of lumber and bedding for the children in need. This is
a great teambuilding opportunity and can make a great
impact in local communities.
For more information visit Sleep in Heavenly
Peace at www.shpbeds.org to find your local chapter
and hold your own #fastenerbedchallenge event
PARKER FASTENERS & BTM MANUFACTURING

56
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Jo Morris Marketing Director, Fastener Training Institute ®
FASTENER TRAINING INSTITUTE ®
5318 East 2nd Street #325, Long Beach, CA 90803
TEL 562-473-5373 FAX 661-449-3232
EMAIL info@fastenertraining.org WEB www.fastenertraining.org
IN-PERSON TRAINING EVENTS
RETURN FOR 2022
The Fastener Training Institute (FTI), the leading
nonprofit provider of fastener product and technical
training, has a combination of in-person, virtual and online
training opportunities for companies and students in
2022.
Fastener Training Week Program
FTI is offering four in-person sessions of its Fastener
Training Week, an accelerated training for the FTI Certified
Fastener Specialist (CFS) designation:
¤ February 21-25. 2022: Cleveland, OH
¤ May 2-5: Charlotte, North Carolina
¤ August 22-26: Chicago, IL
¤ November 14-18: Los Angeles, CA
Fastener Training Week offers five intensive days of
education covering manufacturing processes, consensus
standards and quality control, as well as plant tours.
The week features a refreshed curriculum with even
more learning labs and more hands-on interactive class
exercises and quizzes to reinforce learning. Courses
are taught by industry experts including Salim Brahimi,
Industrial Fasteners Institute; Laurence Claus, NNi
Training and Consulting; Carmen Vertullo, AIM Testing
Lab; and John Medcalf, Peak Innovations Engineering.
After completing this small group training and passing a
final exam, attendees are eligible for the CFS designation.
Fastener Training Week Scholarships
Scholarship opportunities are available through WIFI,
SFA, NFDA and Pac-West Fastener Associations. In
addition, a $500 discount is available for Pac-West,
NFDA, IFI, MWFA, NCFA, SFA and AIM Prime members.
TECHNICAL ARTICLE
Fastening 101 at Fastener Fair USA
May 17 in Detroit, MI
Industry expert Laurence Claus leads this intensive
training for fastener users, distributors, purchasers,
engineers, salespersons, and manufacturers. This class
covers manufacturing processes, consensus standards,
quality control product and design fundamentals.
Fastening 101 offers a thorough understanding of
the fastener industry, including products, applications,
industries and more, and is ideal for industrial,
automotive, aerospace, and military attendees.
Fastener Technology Workshop at
International Fastener Expo
October 17 in Las Vegas, NV
This full day seminar focuses on the practical
aspects of working in the fastener industry. You’ll learn
how to respond to technical questions from engineers
and technicians and how to find the appropriate answers.
You’ll gain a lot of practical fastener knowledge and
increase your professional value and industry status
by sharing this day with industry experts and business
colleagues.
Single Day CFS Classes
FTI will offer two single-day classes that qualify toward
a Certified Fastener Specialist (CFS) designation. The
classes will be Quality Assurance - Print Reading &
Inspection and Understanding the Bolted Joint.
Visit www.fastenertraining.org for more information.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 124

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 57

58
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Anthony Di Maio
Anthony E. Di Maio attended Wentworth Institute and Northeastern University. In 1962 he
started working with Blind Fasteners as Vice-President of Engineering & Manufacturing for two
blind rivet manufacturers. He has been Chairman of the Technical Committee of the Industrial
Fasteners Institute (IFI) and is still involved in the writing of IFI specifications. In 1991, he
started ADM Engineering and is working with Fastener Manufacturers developing new fasteners
and special machinery. He can be reached at ADM Engineering, 6 Hermon Ave., Haverhill, MA
01832; phone and fax 978-521-0277; e-mail: tdimaio@verizon.net.
BLIND RIVET FAILURES & SOLUTIONS
Blind rivet failures can be caused by many reasons
that can cause delay in production schedules. These
blind rivet failures can be avoided by the proper blind
rivet set-up conditions and operator training. Below are
the blind rivet failures and solutions.
Rivet Body Length Is Too Long
fastening the work pieces together. Note the correct
blind rivet body length the mandrel head is locked in the
upset side of the set blind rivet and the rivet body has
compressed and fastened the work pieces together with
the maximum clamp load. The “correct length” drawing
shows what a properly set blind rivet should look like
SOLUTION - Always use the work thickness listed by
the blind rivet manufacturer.
Rivet Body Length Is Too Short
TOO LONG
CORRECT LENGTH
Blind rivet manufacturers list the minimum and
maximum work thickness range that the blind rivet is to
be used.
The drawing illustrates the failure of the set blind
rivet when the length of the rivet body is too long for
the work thickness. Example:- using a size 48 blind rivet
that has a minimum work thickness of .375 (9.5mm)
and a maximum work thickness of .500 (12.7mm) and
use this blind rivet in a work thickness of .187 (4.7mm).
In the .187 (4.7mm) work thickness the mandrel head
is not trapped in the upset side of the rivet body and the
mandrel head can become loose and fall out of the set
rivet body. You also will not achieve a high clamp load
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
TOO SHORT
CORRECT LENGTH
The drawing illustrates the failure of the set blind rivet
when the rivet body is too short for the work thickness.
Example:- using a blind rivet that has a maximum work
thickness of .500 (12.7mm) and you use this blind rivet
in a work thickness of .562 (14.2mm). There is not
enough rivet body to lock the mandrel head and also not
enough rivet body to clamp and fasten the work pieces
together. This is a blind rivet failure.
SOLUTION - Use the blind rivet with the work
thickness listed by the rivet manufacturer.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 126

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 59

60
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
ACE BOLT & SCREW CO, INC
530 Julienne Street, PO Box 22533, Jackson MS 39225
TEL 601-355-3448 FAX 601-355-7100 EMAIL jacksonsales@acebolt.net WEB www.acebolt.net
OLD SCHOOL IN A GOOD WAY - SERVING THE
SOUTHEAST SINCE 1969 by Dennis Cowhey, President, Computer Insights
Third Generation Strong
Ace Bolt & Screw Co., Inc. was co-founded on July
1, 1969, by Randal and Tom, who moved to Mississippi
to open a fastener company. With Tom’s death in 2003,
Randal bought out his friend’s share. Ace Bolt & Screw
has become a 3rd generation family business that now
employs Randal’s sons, Randy and Mike, and his three
grandkids.
With much enthusiasm, in July 2007, Ace Bolt
& Screw opened its first branch location in Tupelo,
Mississippi. As the business grew, so did the dreams
for the company. Ace Bolt expanded even farther into the
Southeast in August 2017 and opened another branch in
Atlanta, Georgia. In the summer of 2017, their flagship
location in Jackson, Mississippi, remodeled its sales
counter, adding 3,000 square feet and numerous new
products. In 2020, amidst the pandemic, their latest
store opened in Gluckstadt, Mississippi.
Long-Lasting Quality Relationships
Over the last half a century, they have built long-lasting
quality relationships with their customers, employees, and
vendors. These relationships have always been crucial to
the success of their business. Everyone at ACE prides
themselves in being one of the most significant wholesale
fastener businesses in the Southeast.
As one of the Southeast’s largest and most
significant fastener distributors, they offer their
customers excellent prices and unparalleled service.
Treating customers and employees as part of their
extended family is baked into their company culture.
Everyone at ACE prides themselves in being “old
school” in customer service, and they treat customers
the same as they did in 1969 – no matter if they are
a mom and pop or a large corporation. They mix their
traditional service with the latest technology to offer
complete product tracing, vendor-managed inventory,
fully customizable billing, and much more.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
CONTINUED ON PAGE 128

62
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
PACIFIC-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION
3020 Old Ranch Parkway #300, Seal Beach CA 90740
TEL 562-799-5509 FAX 562-684-0695 EMAIL info@pac-west.org WEB www.pac-west.org
CLAY WEAVER ELECTED PAC-WEST PRESIDENT
by Amy Nijjar
Clay Weaver of Industrial Threaded Products (Brea,
California) was elected to serve as president of the
Pacific-West Fastener Association at a recent meeting of
the Pac-West Board of Directors.
Jo Morris of Desert Distribution (Castle Rock,
Colorado) was elected as the association’s vice
president, and Mark Thomas Cordova of Centennial Bolt
(Denver, Colorado) was elected as secretary/treasurer.
David Palmquist of N-D Industries (Santa Fe Springs,
California) stays on the Board as immediate past
president.
Mark Thomas Cordova of Centennial Bolt (Denver,
Colorado), Eunice Hajek of M & M Fasteners Supply
(Valencia, California), and George Martinez of Brighton-
Best International (Santa Fe Springs, California) were
elected by the Pac-West membership to serve three-year
terms on the Board of Directors.
Other members of the Pac-West Board are Craig
Beaty of Beawest Fasteners (Kent, Washington), John
Butler of The Olander Co. (Sunnyvale, California), Hans
Fuller of Fuller Metric (Langley, British Columbia), John
Gaudette of Metric & Multistandard (Sparks, Nevada),
Marisa Mudge of Mudge Fasteners (Corona, California),
and Ken Rosenblatt of Hi-Q Fasteners (Santa Fe Springs,
California).
At the association’s recent fall conference, tribute
was paid to retiring Board members Gigi Calfee of
Copper State Bolt & Nut (Phoenix, Arizona), Ed Smith
of Wurth Timberline (Commerce City, Colorado) and Ron
Stanley of Empire Bolt & Screw (Spokane, Washington).
Pac-West’s 2021 Joint Fall Conference with the
Southwestern Fastener Association took place October
20-23 at the Hilton Palacio del Rio in San Antonio,
Texas. The conference featured the perfect mix of
stimulating educational programs and fun events.
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
Offerings at the conference included:
¤ Economic Update presented by Dr. Chris Thornberg
¤ Fastener Industry Update by Tim Roberto Jr.
(Star Stainless Screw), Danielle Riggs
(Würth Industry North America), and Mike Bailey
(Nucor Fastener)
¤ Grow Your Company and Its Capabilities presented
by Dr. Barry Lawrence and Dr. Esther Rodriquez-
Silva of Texas A&M
¤ Craft Brewery Tour with Texas Barbecue
¤ Cookie Decorating Tips spouse program by the
award-winning Suzy Cravens (Advance Components)
¤ Dinner at The Buckhorn Saloon and Museum
Pac-West’s next conference will be March 16-18 at
the Westin Anaheim Resort in Anaheim, CA. The meeting
will feature a tabletop show and educational programs.
Don’t Miss These Pac-West Events In 2022!
February 10 After Hours, San Diego CA
March 16-18 Spring Conference and Tabletop
Westin, Anaheim CA
April 12
Spring Dinner Meeting
Holiday Inn, La Mirada CA
May 19
After Hours, LA/OC Line
June 9
After Hours, Denver CO
August 18 After Hours, Vancouver B.C.
September 14-17 Fall Conference
The Brown Palace, Denver CO
October 6 Fall Dinner Meeting
Holiday Inn, La Mirada CA
November 17 After Hours - Bay Area CA
December 8 Holiday Party
Holiday Inn, La Mirada CA
Please check our website www.pac-west.org for more
information and to sign-up for these events.
PACIFIC-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION

PAC-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION/SOUTHWESTERN FASTENER ASSOCIATION
JOINT CONFERENCE - SAN ANTONIO, TX - OCTOBER 20, 2021

64
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Roman Basi
Roman Basi is the President of The Center for Financial, Legal & Tax Planning, Inc. Roman
graduated from Milliken University obtaining a Bachelor’s of Science Degree with a minor
in Psychology. He earned an MBA from Southern Illinois University with an emphasis
in Accounting and recevied his JD degree from Southern Illinois University. Roman is a
licensed CPA as well as being a licensed attorney in Illinois, Missouri and Florida and is
in high demand for his expertise in financial, legal and tax matters. His areas of expertise
include mergers and acquisitions, contracts, real estate law, tax and estate planning.
TAX MINIMIZATION ANALYSIS: HOW TO ADVOCATE
FOR CLIENTS SELLING THEIR BUSINESS - PART 1
If your business was to sell today, how much cash
would you walk away with? Moreover, what is the tax
impact you would incur, and what is the best structure
and purchase price allocation to avoid such tax impact?
Essentially, how do you reap the maximum return on
selling a business you’ve spent your life building? A Tax
Minimization Analysis (TMA) is the answer. A TMA analyzes
a multitude of factors that play a vital role in the outcome
of selling a business. When executed properly, a TMA will
allow a seller to understand the financial breakdown on
every level of a merger, acquisition, or business succession.
Additionally, the TMA will provide an accurate calculation
taking into account all transaction factors and variables
that affect the cash a seller obtains at closing and postclosing.
At The Center for Financial, Legal & Tax Planning,
Inc., (The Center) we have found the TMA to revolutionize
M&A transactions as it provides the transparency a seller
deserves and the information necessary for our team to
best advocate for your desired outcome.
As many know, an M&A transaction can be
overwhelming with the multitude of variables that
drastically influence the outcome. The variables include,
but are certainly not limited to the overall structure of the
transaction, the asset/stock basis of the selling company,
ownership configurations, real estate involvement, multiple
entity involvement, liabilities paid at closing, purchase
price adjustments, earn-outs, consulting fees, recaptured
depreciation, and the federal, state and local tax impact.
Each variable listed can severely impact the outcome of
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
a transaction and each must be taken into account as
early in the transaction as possible. When all variables
are understood early in the transaction, your counsel is
best equipped with the knowledge to understand how to
best combat or strategically use such variables to obtain
an outcome that not only protects a seller legally but
minimizes their tax burden to the fullest extent possible.
After all, we did not invest our lives into a business to give
thirty to fifty percent of the closing proceeds to Uncle Sam
when it’s sold! The example below provides some insight
into the value of a TMA.
A TMA can not only pay for itself through the tax
savings it will discover, but potentially pay for the
merger and acquisition (M&A) team you engage for your
transaction. For example, you’re selling a business in an
industry that deals with complex licensing or regulation
(transportation, sand & gravel, chemicals, etc.), and the
Buyer seeks an asset sale for the benefits of immediate
depreciation. Through proper execution of a TMA, your
counsel can analyze and determine the best structure
of the transaction, whether it be an asset, stock, or
in this case a potential 338(h)(10) sale. The TMA will
calculate the tax effect of each sale type (asset, stock,
and 338(h)(10)) to determine what structure best suits
the seller from a tax standpoint. Under this example, the
TMA may determine the 338(h)10 will best overcome the
complexities of assigning licenses or permits while also
providing the paramount tax outcome for not only the
seller but in this example the buyer too.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 131

66
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
TEL 323-817-2226 EMAIL morgan.wilson@fastenershows.com
WEB www.fastenershows.com
IFE 2021 RECAP & 2022 PREVIEW
International Fastener Expo (IFE), North America’s
most extensive business-to-business tradeshow for all
types of fasteners, machinery & tooling and other
industrial products, successfully staged the 40th edition
of the event September 21 – 23 at Mandalay Bay in Las
Vegas, Nevada. The three-day event was packed with
special events, opportunities to network and a robust
conference agenda. Despite a different year, the feedback
from exhibitors and attendees was largely positive and
many were thrilled to be back and connect as an industry
in-person. Morgan Wilson, Show Manager of International
Fastener Expo provided additional insight. “Exhibitors
and Attendees both commonly stated they experienced
high-quality interactions and it was clear those who
participated this year were focused on doing business.”
Day one of the event kicked off Tuesday morning with
the 2nd annual golf tournament at Bali Hai Golf Club.
More than 90 players across 23 teams enjoyed friendly
competition, networking and good times. First place,
second place and third place teams were awarded prizes.
Participants were also awarded prizes for longest drive
and closest to the pin. Congratulations to the winners!
First Place Team:
Erik Mason, Tim Quick, Dennis Doyle and Jack Dobek
Second Place Team:
Michael Morrissey, Chris Berner, Dan Finucan and Jason
Shortt
Third Place (tie):
Kyle Lang, Zachary Schihl, Brad Burel and Erik Lang
Aaron Dollenmeyer, Mike Weishaar and Ted Grove
Women Closest to the Pin: Jamie Ausec
Men Closest to the Pin: Dennis Doyle
Women Longest Drive: Tara Rinkdskopf
Men Longest Drive: Mike Shall
SHOW EVENT ARTICLE
Day one concluded with the annual Welcome
Reception at Mandalay Bay’s Daylight Pool, where more
than 500 industry leaders gathered to celebrate the
Golf Tournament winners and enjoy an open bar, light
appetizers and live DJ entertainment.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 130

INTERNATIONAL FASTENER EXPO
MANDALAY BAY, LAS VEGAS, NV - SEPTEMBER 22-23, 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 127

68
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
UNIVERSAL FASTENING SYSTEM
300 Jeffords St. Suite C, Clearwater FL, 33756 TEL 727-386-5374
EMAIL info@universalfasteningsystem.com WEB www.universalfasteningsystem.com
UNIVERSAL FASTENING SYSTEM
ANNOUNCES REVOLUTIONARY SYSTEM
A true engineering breakthrough by Universal
Fastening System (UFS), announcing versatile designs
for the fastener Industry. UFS is a leader in design
and engineering of proprietary technology including high
performance drive systems for fastening applications
in ALL industries; medical, automotive, aerospace,
construction, marine, furniture, electronics using manual
as well as robotic processes. This concept is a true
game-changer.
Imagine this: The best qualities of a screw, a bolt, a
nut, and a nail - all combined into one system, which can
come in three-, two-, or one-piece fasteners depending
on the application. Imagine a screw that can be guided
from an angle into their final position, a nail that can
be inserted with built-in resistance to bending. Imagine
fasteners that can be secured and tightened using nonskid,
no-slip, dual internal and external hybrid connections
that mesh closely together in motion with their driver
counterparts to resist stripping.
There is no need to imagine! This versatile fastener
exists today as part of a universally applicable system and
is available for licensing and use. Dr. Kianor Shah, inventor
of the Universal Fastening (UFS) System, states “Now,
engineers and manufacturers can design better products
and structures by placing fasteners in more desirable
locations versus the conventional need for straight-line
access. Furthermore, failing, or existing fasteners can be
replaced to improve functionality and longevity.”
UFS components can be made from any solid
material such as metals, plastics, ceramics, and rubbers
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
in micro and macro sizes with various methods. The
fasteners can be driven or accessed from angles of up
to 180-degrees and in the tightest of places with an
effectively designed head that can act as a carrier for
manual or automated use or as an anchor for a secondary
process such as a permanent or nonpermanent joint.
Its tamper-proof qualities can also be hidden for added
security, restoration of esthetic features, or simply away
from environmental exposure that may result in rusting
and corrosion.
Universal Fastening System, LLC is a Florida entity
headquartered in Clearwater, Fl, for IP licensing and contract
manufacturing (OEM inclusive).
UNIVERSAL FASTENING SYSTEM

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 69

70
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
VENTURA INDUSTRIAL
PRODUCTS, LLC
TEL 330-467-0102 CELL 216-338-8485 EMAIL jv@jackieventura.com WEB www.jackieventura.com
SELLING FASTENERS “IS KIND OF A BIG DEAL!”
AT VENTURA INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS
My rep agency, Ventura Industrial Products, LLC was
established 10 years ago, in August of 2011. However,
I have been working in the fastener industry for over 38
years. I started my career in 1983 working as a secretary
for a fastener rep agency, Briggs Industrial Sales, Inc. of
Cleveland, Ohio and continued to work with them for 14
years advancing my way through the company as office
manager, inside sales, and finally landing a position in
outside sales.
When I first went out on my own
as an independent rep in 1997, I
was one of the first women-owned
manufacturer’s rep agencies in the
country. I opened my agency with
one line, Sems and Specials, and
a whole lot of courage! Because I
was a woman in a man’s industry,
I faced many challenges along the
way, but the people who tested and
challenged me helped me become
a better, more well-informed sales
person. Fortunately, with the support
and recommendations of many
industry connections, numerous
companies gave me the opportunity
to rep them when I was starting up
and I was able to build a successful agency, JV Industrial
Sales. The territory I covered then and still cover today is;
Ohio, Western Pennsylvania, Upstate New York, Michigan,
Eastern Indiana, and Northern Kentucky.
I ran that agency until I got married and moved to
Arizona where I lived for five years and also had a fastener
rep agency in the Southwest. Basically, I have worked as
a rep for my entire career with the exception of five years
when I worked as a direct sales person for Infasco after
moving back to Ohio in 2006. Infasco is a great company,
but my passion is working independently as a rep. So,
in 2011 I got back to it and formed Ventura Industrial
Products, LLC.
I love working with the people in this industry, many of
whom have become great friends! I get great satisfaction
when I can help a customer source a part, either through
one of my Principal’s product lines, or by referring them to
someone else who might be able to assist them. It really
is about helping each other and building relationships.
Some of the biggest challenges
many reps face is territory overlap
with other agencies and finding noncompeting
lines. There are many
great agencies out there, several of
whom rep the same companies I do
in their respective territories, and they
may have states that intersect with
my region. Therefore, I am unable
to represent some of my lines in all
of my territory. But, most of us reps
have all gotten to know one another
through sales meetings and other
industry events and have learned to
work together as a team and help
each other out across territory lines.
If the companies we represent are
successful, then so are we!
The benefits manufacturers get in hiring an
independent rep compared to a direct sales person lies
primarily in the cost differences. Reps pay all of their
own expenses; vehicles, phones, travel, health and auto
insurance, taxes, as well as meals and entertainment.
Plus, since we work on commission there is generally
no fixed salary involved. The more we sell, the more
our Principals should earn. Additional benefits include
industry experience and qualified contacts, which results
in less training or the need for lead generation to be
provided by the manufacturer.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 71

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 71
VENTURA INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS SELLING FASTENERS IS “KIND OF A BIG DEAL” from page 70
I am truly blessed to be working with some of the
most excellent companies in the fastener industry! I
pride myself in utilizing my strong work ethic and many
years of experience to provide exceptional service and a
clear channel of communication between the distribution
companies I serve and the companies I sell for. The
companies I represent are quality partnerships with the
same dedication and commitment to our customer’s
requirements, enabling us to meet the demanding needs
of today’s market. My Principals are listed below and
you will see ads from many of them right here in Link
Magazine!
AIM Testing Laboratory - Testing, Consulting & Training
Services
C & H International - Import Brokerage Service Provider
Choice Fasteners - Studs & Stud Bolting
Couplings Company - Brass Fittings
Dale Company - U-bolts, J-Bolts, Eye Bolts, Anchor Bolts
Disc & Belleville - Belleville, Disc & Spring Washers
EFC International - Specialty Engineered Components
Eastern Industrial Products – Gaskets, O-rings & Custom
Rubber Products
Eurolink Fastener Supply Service - Hard-to-Find Metric
Fasteners
Fascomp - Electronic Hardware, Panel Nuts, and Custom
Parts
Goebel Fasteners - Blind Rivets, Rivet Nuts, Threaded
Inserts, G-Grip Lockbolts and Installation Tools
One Stop Packaging - In-House Packaging Company
SmartCert - QR Code based Certificate Management
System
Spring Bolt & Nut - Exotic materials specialist, short run,
hot forged, machined.
Tool-X - Nano Fluid Technology that improves machine tool
life and production speeds.
Triem Industries – Semi-Standard & Special Screws/Sems
Wyandotte Industries - Special Nuts, Locknuts, Screw
Machine & CNC products
We look forward to working with you and assisting
you with your fastener requirements!
VENTURA INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS

72
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
SPIROL INTERNATIONAL CORP.
30 Rock Avenue, Danielson, CT 06239
TEL 1-860-774-8571 FAX 1-860-774-2048 EMAIL info@spirol.com WEB www.spirol.com
SOLID PIN RETENTION FEATURES
by Jeff Greenwood, Product Sales Engineer
Solid Pins are commonly used as permanent
fasteners in a wide range of applications. They are
retained by the harder Solid Pin displacing material in the
softer host component(s). There are two primary methods
of accomplishing this:
[1] Press-fit: Press-fit dowels and straight pins are
typically retained in the assembly by being pressed into
holes that are smaller than the pin diameter. The pins are
retained by compressing the host material.
[2] Retention features: Retention features (i.e.
knurls and barbs) are often preferred over press-fit dowels
because they allow for wider hole tolerances and lower
insertion forces during assembly. Knurls and barbs
carve into the softer host component, and displace the
host material into the valleys of the knurls and barbs.
This results in more frictional contact area between the
pin and hole, and thus higher retention as compared to
simple press-fit doweling.
This White Paper describes the common types of
retention features and can serve as a reference tool when
designing a new product. There are several types of Solid
Pin retention features, and it’s beneficial for designers
to take advantage of the characteristics associated with
each retention feature. The four most common retention
features are described below.
Straight Knurls
Straight knurls provide strong resistance to rotational
forces but minimal resistance to axial loads. Therefore,
straight knurls are often recommended when the pin
is used to transmit torque, such as when used as an
axle to rotate a wheel. In this type of application, the
pin would have a partial knurl equivalent (or shorter) to
the thickness of the retaining component. The mating
component could then
rotate about the pin’s
APPLICATION
EXAMPLE -
SPIROL LP500
LATCH PIN IN
AUTOMOTIVE
DOOR HANDLE
“blank” (non-knurled) section.
Helical Knurls
Like a screw, Solid Pins with helical knurls rotate
as they enter the hole and cut into the host component.
The helical knurls provide greater surface contact than
straight knurls, therefore providing greater resistance to
back out. Helical knurls provide resistance to both axial
loads and rotational forces. In dynamic applications with
solely rotational loads (like the wheel and axle mentioned
above), straight knurls are preferred because helical
knurls subjected to torque have a propensity to rotate
further into or out of the hole - depending on the direction
of rotation. In general, helical knurls are the most
versatile among the
Solid Pin retention
features.
TECHNICAL ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 140

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 73
The Swedish-based Nord-
Lock Group has inaugurated
the core of its business,
Nord-Lock’s production
facility in Mattmar, Sweden,
where everything started
almost 40 years ago. The
inauguration is the third in
2021, a result of the Group’s
focus on expansion to meet
increasing demand.
In 2019, the first sod was
laid for the Group’s most
extensive expansion project
ever, by upgrading and
expanding the three largest
production units in the
business, the foundation is
created for more future-proof
production and development
for the company.
In February, the Group’s
CEO Fredrik Meuller
inaugurated Expander’s
operations in Åtvidaberg,
Sweden, with a doubled
production area to meet
market demand for, among
other things, pivot pins.
In October, the Group’s
brand-new unit was
inaugurated in Pittsburgh,
USA, which will be the base
for the company’s Superbolt
production and US sales
offices.
`The expansion of
Nord-Lock’s operations
in Mattmar, Sweden, is
inaugurated together with
Governor Marita Ljung,
Investment AB Latour’s CEO
Johan Hjertonsson and the
Group’s CEO Fredrik Meuller.
The facility is the heart of
Nord-Lock Group and has
now a significantly larger
production area and a new
office building.
“We are seeing a sharp increase
in demand for our solutions from
customers all over the world, and
to ensure future needs, we have
expanded our three largest units
during the pandemic and invested
in state-of-the-art equipment. Today
we are very happy and proud to be
able to inaugurate our expanded
business right here in Mattmar.
The new facility ensures longterm
production capacity and
provides us with a good
basis for continued
focus on innovation
and development of
world-leading bolting
solutions. The focus for
the expansion has been
to create sustainable
production capacity and
provides us with a good
basis for continued focus
on innovation and development of
world-leading bolting solutions. The
focus for the expansion has been to
create sustainable production and
create a better working environment
for our employees,” says Fredrik
Meuller, President and CEO of Nord-
Lock Group.
For more information contact Nord-
Lock, Inc. by Tel: 412- 279-1149,
email: bolting@nord-lock.com or visit
them online at www.nord-lock.com.

74
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
FAB GROUP CONDUCTS SUPPLY CHAIN SYMPOSIUM
The Fastener Advisory Board (FAB Group) met in
Chicago, IL, on October 28 to review supply chain and
inventory management best practices. The FAB Group
is a 30-year-old peer review group first started through
a sponsorship by the NFDA that currently consists of
member firms AIS – an MSC Company, TR Falcon, Sherex
Fastening Solutions, Martin Fastener – a Division of
Martin Supply, AMPG, and G.L. Huyett. With multiple
industrial fastener distribution channel participants,
members benefit from viewing the current supply chain
state of affairs from an array of lens’ and perspectives.
Key highlights included a group benchmarking survey
that looked at total transit time from various origin
and destination ports, with an eye on finding clues
to compressing transit times, especially given current
congestion and shortages of transportation workers; and
total costs benchmarked to LCL and FCL shipments,
along with freight broker and forwarder performance
reviews. Adam Pratt of Sherex noted some recent
successes in routing shipments to the east coast, and
away from congestion out west. G.L. Huyett presented
inventory replenishment practices using data analytics,
encompassing a tools and benefits assessment from a
sponsorship of a doctoral thesis at the Massachusetts
Institute of Technology in early 2020 on the variations
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
in demand planning and setting inventory values. AIS
presented a concept of a sourcing tool which led to
extensive peer group discussions about the formation of
networks of suppliers and distributors that focus on team
wins of new business while largely eliminating the nonvalue-added
activity associated with quoting and RFQs.
There were many sidebar discussions and many of
the participants came away impressed and equipped with
new ideas. Laurie Massengill, Purchasing Manager at
Martin noted, “This meeting drew upon best practices and
has given me significant context to improve our practices
at Martin, as I learn about this industry in contrast to my
many years of experience in supply chains associated
with the elevator manufacturing industry.”
NICK RUETZ OF AIS, AN MSC COMPANY, DISCUSSES BEST PRACTICES WITH
MEMBERS OF THE FASTENER ADVISORY BOARD (FAB GROUP) DURING A RECENT
SUPPLY CHAIN AND INVENTORY MANAGEMENT SYMPOSIUM IN CHICAGO, IL.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 142

INTERNATIONAL FASTENERS, INC.
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 75
Tampa . Charlotte . Chicago . Dallas . Los Angeles . Philadelphia
TEL 1-888-241-0203 FAX 1-888-241-2096 EMAIL sales@daggerz.com WEB www.daggerz.com
DAGGERZ DELIVERING THROUGH THE SUPPLY CHAIN CRISIS
Once a result of Covid-19 disruptions, the supply
chain crisis is plaguing many industries, including the
fastener industry, mainly due to an increase in demand.
Did you know that this increase stems from panic buying
and is equivalent to nearly 50 million new Americans
joining the economy? Unfortunately, many supply chains
rely on lean principles which have rendered them
unable to keep up with growing demand. International
Fasteners, Inc., however, has managed to rise to the
challenge of meeting their customers’ needs.
By making the decision early on to put inventory as
their top priority, IFI has done everything possible to have
stock on their shelves to meet their distributor customer
needs. While prices have continued to soar, availability
has been the constant their customers can rely on.
It is estimated that the ships anchored off Los
Angeles alone could stretch from Southern California
to Chicago if laid end to end. These record backlogs
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
at the world’s largest ports combined with worker,
equipment, and space shortages in getting containers
to their destinations once they have reached land have
forced companies like International Fasteners, Inc. to
get creative. Domestic coatings and replacement boxes
have all come in to play to help turn overstocked plated
fasteners into much needed long life coated ones that
can be put back on the shelf until containers arrive.
This crisis is estimated to last well into 2023.
International Fasteners, Inc. plans to face these longterm
challenges through continuing to be adaptable,
creative, and focused on serving its customers by any
means necessary.
Interested in partnering and growing with a company
that will do everything in its power to continue to serve
its customers through every challenge? Follow them on
social media and make International Fasteners, Inc. your
choice today!
INTERNATIONAL FASTENERS, INC.

76
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
GLOBALFASTENERNEWS.COM
by JOHN WOLZ EDITOR
editor@globalfastenernews.com
THORNBERG TELLS PAC-WEST / SFA:
‘THIS ECONOMY HAS MOMENTUM’
“ The economy is back,” Christopher Thornberg
declared to the 2021 joint conference of the Pacific-
West Fastener Association and Southwestern Fastener
Association. “This economy has momentum.”
Expect 6% growth in Q4 with unemployment below
5%, Dr. Thornberg of Beacon Economics LLC predicted.
And the economy will be hot for the next few years,
he added. “Three years? Four years?”
The current economy comes after the tragic natural
disaster of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“History shows natural disasters have a “limited
long-run economic impact,” Thornberg said. “The crisis is
gone.”
Fiscal and monetary policy relations to the Covid-19
pandemic “have been excessive.”
The Federal Reserve responded to “over-heal the
economy in the short-term” with a “rocket booster,”
Thornberg suggested.
Many of the day-to-day “crises” were not real,
Thornberg said.
“Miserableness and the pandemic” did not result
in Americans “selling apples on the street corner in the
snow.”
The U.S. poverty rate actually fell in 2020, he pointed
out. “People are tougher than we think.”
Speaking to Pac-West and SFA on the topic of “Post-
Covid World, Over the Hump...or Over-Stimulated?,”
Thornberg cautioned that the overstimulation puts
the economy at “the greatest risk of inflation in 50 years.”
There are a “couple really good years in front of us”
that could end with recession due to overbuilding and over
expansion. The actual Covid recession was short.
“Typically after a recession, there are fewer jobs so
there are workers for low wages,” Thornberg said. “Not
this time,” he declared, noting there are 50% more job
openings. When applicants “don’t have to take the first
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
job it pulls everybody up.”
Only supply chain disruptions are “holding back” full
recovery, Thornberg said. The supply chain disruptions
result from “a lot of things adding up.” The Just-in-Time
model of the past decade meant inventories were down
and “nobody was ready for a surge.” The pandemic
caused “bad forecasting in 2020” and there was “excess
demand by consumers.”
The global shipping backlog is partially due to “slow
capacity growth in recent years.” he said of supply chain
problems. “It will turn. It will catch up.”
Changes are coming. There is an upcoming glut in
U.S. oil production. Natural gas prices up? That raises the
cost of steel, Thornberg forewarned.
Thornberg noted that ten million people lost jobs
during the pandemic, but 110 million received checks. The
U.S. government was “giving money to people who
can’t spend it.” For every $1 lost in earnings the U.S.
government gave out $3.50.
Checking account balances doubled, Thornberg
pointed out. One result has been “over-investment in real
estate in response to the temporary surge in economic
activity,” Thornberg observed.
Subsequently “Americans are flush,” Thornberg said.
They have money for autos and hot tubs. Home prices
have soared, Thornberg cited a 28.3% increase in Phoenix
as an example.
And companies recorded record profits during Covid,
Thornberg added.
For both political parties, the 2020 free dollars were
about “buying an election,” Thornberg said.
“There is no such thing as a free lunch,” Thornberg
said in reference to the trillions of dollars added to the
federal debt. The federal debt has doubled in comparison
to GDP in the past 20 years.
“The long run still matters,” Thornberg declared.
GLOBALFASTENERNEWS.COM

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 77

78
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
ND Industries is
pleased to announce the
hiring of Brad Gallagher
as Applications Engineer
and Business Development
Manager.
Brad will be focused on
the growing electric vehicle
industry, as well as the
aerospace and industrial
markets, while fostering
ongoing relationships with
clients across the Western
United States. As a trusted
partner, Brad will work with
new and existing customers
to determine how ND can
help solve their problems.
In 2009, Brad graduated
from Kettering University
with a Bachelor of Science
in Mechanical Engineering,
followed by a Master of
Science in Engineering
Management in 2011. During
his time at Kettering, Brad
participated in numerous
co-op programs. Each
program honed Brad’s skills
and exposed him to all levels
of an organization.
continued on next page...

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 79
...continued from previous page
Brad’s career path
allowed him to work with
world-renowned chemical
manufacturing companies
that specialize in fasteners
and adhesive technology.
Starting in the lab, Brad
was quickly recognized for
his technical know-how and
communication skills. Brad
has since worked in Account
Manager and Business
Development roles, handling
large OEM accounts.
Brad intends to draw
on his background in the
automotive industry to
collaborate with engineers
and managers to develop
technical solutions that meet
their product requirements.
With Brad’s assistance, ND
Industries will continue to
bring in new business and
build on the established
customer base. Brad is
confident that ND Industries
will remain on the cuttingedge
with its exceptional line
of products and unparalleled
customer service.
ND Industries is a
leading chemical technology
manufacturer, serving
the global market with
adhesives, sealants, and
thread-locking technologies.
ND Industries specializes
in products utilized in the
automotive, aerospace, and
defense industries.
For more information
contact ND Industries by Tel:
248-288-0000, Fax: 248-
288-0022 Email at info@
ndindustries.com or online at
www.ndindustries.com.

80
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
SPECIALTY TOOLS & FASTENERS DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION
PO Box 44, 500 Elm Grove Rd., Ste. 2I0, Elm Grove, Wl 53122
TEL 1-800-352-2981 FAX 262-784-5059 EMAIL info@stafda.org WEB www.stafda.org
RECAP OF STAFDA’S ORLANDO 2021
CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW by Georgia H. Foley, CEO
Nearly 2,400 construction/industrial distributors,
manufacturers, and rep agents met in Orlando, October
24-26 for STAFDA’s 45th Annual Convention & Trade Show.
Although it was only 56% of the usual attendance, it was
still a solid turnout considering the continued COVID-19
environment. Attendance was impacted by the inability of
international attendees to gain entry into the US.
However, the feedback STAFDA has received on
Orlando has been nothing short of positive! Manufacturers
(exhibitors) were happy to see their distributors again and
vice versa. Rep agents were also pleased to see their
principals and source new vendors. Twenty-one college
students from five universities attended the three-day
meeting. The students are upperclassmen with industrial
distribution, supply chain, or construction majors who
had the chance to experience a meeting within their
discipline and interview with STAFDA members for a full
time position or internship.
The meeting led off on Sunday, October 24, with
exceptional educational workshops to bring attendees
current on relevant topics. Morning sessions included
Kelly McDonald with “How to Work with People Not Like
You”; Skip Weisman discussed how to “Overcome 7
SHOW EVENT ARTICLE
Deadliest Communication Sins”; Janine Driver covered
how to “Decode Body Language to Increase Sales”;
and Jamie Turner focused on the “Unspoken Rules of
Leadership.” Sunday afternoon’s educational workshop
was a preview of new outside sales trends as presented
by STAFDA Sales Consultant, Paul Reilly. Earlier this year,
STAFDA asked Reilly to update its 2006 outside sales
training manual, Sales PRO, to take into account virtual
selling, social media, technology, and how the COVID-19
pandemic impacted outside sales. The revised manual
will be available to STAFDA members in Q1 2022.
Also Sunday afternoon, a seven-person panel led
a NextGen Luncheon to talk about what they look for
when hiring the younger generation and how they evolved
their businesses during the pandemic to survive and
thrive. The panel consisted of two distributors, two
manufacturers, two rep agents, and one social media
blogger. Social media exploded the past 1.5 years
and STAFDA felt it was important to have this medium
included on the panel.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 144

STAFDA 45th
ANNUAL TRADE SHOW & CONVENTION
ORLANDO, FL - OCTOBER 24-26, 2021

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GOEBEL FASTENERS INC.
5650 Guhn Rd Suite 110, Houston, Texas 77040
TEL 713-393-7007 FAX 713-393-7084 EMAIL sales@goebelfasteners.com WEB www.goebelfasteners.com
A LOOK AT THE NEW 18V
LITHIUM-ION CORDLESS TOOL LINE
We are excited to announce our brand new 18V
Lithium-Ion Cordless Battery Tools! They are proven
reliable tools ideal for demanding assembly, maintenance,
general metalworking and trucking industry applications.
Benefits & Features
¤ Built In LED Flashlight
¤ Soft Ergonomic Grip
¤ Includes 2x 18V Batteries in a Compact Carrying Case
¤ Adjustable Settings & Robust Design
Most operators of structural blind rivets would
agree that the use of the correct setting tool is crucial
for a strong fastened joint. Among the main variables
to be decided when selecting a riveting tool include
power to weight ratio, traction power rating, stroke
length, ergonomics, and ability to adapt different nose
assemblies to accommodate a wide variety of structural
blind rivets.
Goebel Fasteners, Inc. offers a variety of tools for
any application that you may encounter and our quality is
proven with each and every product we offer.
¤ GO-BR1
Designed for Blind Rivets with 3/32” up to 3/16” Diameters
Pulling Force: 2,698lbf Stroke (B/S): B= 0.83”/S= 0.59”
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
¤ GO-TR1
Designed for Bulb-Tite Blind Rivets with 3/16”, 1/4”, 9/32” Diameters
Pulling Force: 2,698lbf Stroke (B/S): B= 1.02”/S= 0.71”
¤ GO-BR2
Designed for Blind Rivets with 5/32” up to 1/4” Diameters
Pulling Force: 4,046lbf Stroke (B/S): B= 1.02”/S= 0.71”
¤ GO-RN1
Designed for Threaded Inserts with 6-32UNC up to 5/16-18UNC Threads
Traction Force: 4,046lbf Adjustable Stroke: 0.008” - 0.230”
¤ GO-RN2
Designed for Threaded Inserts with 10-24UNC up to 1/2-13UNC Threads
Traction Force: 6,070lbf Adjustable Stroke: 0.010”- 0.350”
¤ GO-SN1
Designed for Pre-Bulbed Threaded Inserts with 10-24UNC up to
3/8-16UNC Threads
Traction Force: 4,721lbf Adjustable Stroke: 0.150” - 0.610”
¤ GO-LB1
Designed for Lockbolts with 3/16” up to 1/4” Diameters
Pulling Force: 5,170lbf Stroke: 0.620”
¤ GO-HX1
Designed to Create a Hex Hole out of a Round Hole
Pulling Force: 3,600lbf Stroke: 0.790”
If you are looking for the best in durable and high-quality
powered riveting tools, see what Goebel Fasteners, Inc. has
to offer to get you and your project taken care of!
GOEBEL FASTENERS INC

84
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
DDI System, a leading provider of ERP &
eCommerce software for wholesale distributors,
is pleased to announce David Greene has
stepped into a new role with the company
as Director of Business Development. David,
founder and former partner of a market-specific
ERP for Foodservice Equipment and Supply
dealers joined DDI System as a dedicated
Foodservice Market Specialist in January 2020.
Greene’s wealth of industry expertise and
trusted relationships strengthened DDI’s focus
and growth in the Foodservice Equipment and
Supplies industry over the past year and a half.
Greene is now responsible for growing the
company’s business in all markets, finding
new business opportunities, and helping to
build a strong, recognizable brand alongside the
Marketing and Sales teams. David’s extensive
distribution experience and interpersonal
relationships will drive his ability to spot new
growth opportunities and solidifying current
customer, Buying Group and Association
relationships.
“David has proven to be an extremely valuable
member of the DDI System management team.
His experience and unique ability to build lasting
relationships has resulted in new opportunities
and greater software enhancements to serve
Food Service Equipment dealers and dozens of
other distributor markets,” says DDI System’s
CEO Adam Waller.
Greene’s prior experience includes
Vice President of Business Development at
AutoQuotes, where he assisted in sales, product
development and implementation of the leading
quoting software for Foodservice Equipment and
Commercial Kitchen Design.
DDI System serves over 1,200 distributors
in North America, providing industry-aware
ERP and eCommerce software and services to
wholesalers. DDI’s leading Inform ERP platform
combines operational benefits including daily
operations, mobile ERP functionality, warehouse
management, CRM, connected eCommerce,
detailed analytics, and financial reporting.
For more information conact DDI System by
Tel: 1-877-599-4334, email: sales@ddisys.com or
online at www.ddisystem.com.

86
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
GLOBALFASTENERNEWS.COM
by JOHN WOLZ EDITOR
editor@globalfastenernews.com
PAC-WEST / SFA PANELISTS:
SHORTAGES WILL CONTINUE
“‘Just in time’ is dead,” panelist Tim Roberto
declared as three panelists agreed shortages and a
strong market will continue well into 2022.
“Relief will not be until 2023, at best,” panelist
Danielle Riggs told the joint conference of the
Southwestern Fastener Association and Pacific-West
Fastener Association. “All signs are that the market is
strong,” Mike Bailey finds. All three panelists emphasized
“partnerships” as important in the current market.
Who will gain? Long-term good customers who have
developed partnerships with suppliers.
Who will suppliers ignore? Those past customers
who bought only now and then when they could get a
cheap price.
Nucor, a domestic manufacturer, finds that with
“imports strained,” customers are looking outside
traditional suppliers.”
Domestic capacity is growing, added Bailey – who
has been with Nucor Fastener for 18 years. Nucor just
acquired an existing state-of-the-art coil processing
facility in Shelbyville, IN, where four new National Bolt
Headers will be installed and begin operating in 2022.
Supply chain problems are across the industry,
Bailey pointed out. That starts with raw material.
“Vendor /supplier partnerships will remain critical,”
Bailey emphasized. Bailey said being a supplier has
been difficult: “I don’t like not having anything to sell.”
What Nucor does sell will focus on what customers
need most, Bailey said.
Nucor Fastener is able to buy steel from Nucor and
the fastener division has increased its steel purchasing.
Nucor wants to “strengthen our place as the domestic
lead for fasteners.” Bailey said the heavy truck and
non-residential construction industries have been strong
for Nucor. He added that infrastruture is strong as is
and may be more important as pending legislation “is
mentioned in every newscast,” Bailey observed.
Roberto, president of Star Stainless Screw, pointed
to a weaker U.S. dollar plus nickel rising 30% and copper
40% for stainless steel fastener price increases. He
finds sea freight averages five times as expensive.
The price jumps follow six years of “relative qualm”
for nickel, Roberto observed. The five-year average price
for nickel has been $6.09 per pound and the 20-year
price $7.31. Recently it topped $9. Copper averaged
$2.64 a pound over the past five years and the 20-year
average is $2.96. It has reached $4.30.
There is little price negotiating going on, Roberto
said. There are a limited number of wire mills and “what
the wire mill quotes you are stuck with it.”
Danielle Riggs, managing director of Würth Logistics,
summarized the current supply chain situation as a
“train wreck.” For 2021 transportation rates remain
high, container space constraints are a “challenge,”
plus the U.S. has congestion at ports and inland has
transportation shortages.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
GLOBALFASTENERNEWS.COM

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88
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FASTENER FAIR USA CELEBRATES A SUCCESSFUL
IN-PERSON EVENT IN CLEVELAND, OHIO
Fastener Fair USA 2021 wrapped up its first in-person
event since 2019 in Cleveland, Ohio—reuniting the
industry in the leading hub for manufacturing in North
America. Featuring a day-long educational program on
November 8, and a productive, two-day exhibit hall on
November 9 & 10—Fastener Fair USA fostered crucial
business connections and sourcing opportunities for the
full supply chain.
Fastener Fair USA is the only exhibition in the U.S.
dedicated to the full value chain – distributors, mechanical
and design engineers, purchasers, wholesalers and OEMs,
and for 2021, an expanded emphasis on manufacturing.
Key Highlights for 2021:
¤ Full-Day, Pre-Show Conference: Fastening 101
Presented by Fastener Training Institute
On November 8, vendors and attendees gathered in
a comprehensive course presented by Fastener Training
Institute—covering the basics of fastener engineering—
from introduction to fastener productions, product-use,
market value, business implementation, and more.
¤ Exhibit Hall with Leading Suppliers
The Fastener Fair USA exhibit hall welcomed leading
and new vendors to the show floor specializing in
manufacturing equipment, finished goods, fastener
supplies, technology, services, and more.
¤ Expert Knowledge
The show floor featured a session from Industrial
Fastener Institute and Fastener Training Institute—5
Ways to Improve Quality—focusing on the importance
of improving your business strategy, structure and
engagement to ensure leading results. From the impact
of staffing to the importance of training, Laurence Claus
from Industrial Fastener Institute walked viewers through
the future of business efficiencies.
¤ Networking Happy Hours at the Fastener Fair USA
Happy Hour on the show floor, featuring exhibitorled
band, Radiate Live and reunion at the Punch Bowl
Social, hosted by the North Coast Fastener Association.
SHOW EVENT ARTICLE
CONTINUED ON PAGE 142

FASTENER FAIR USA
CLEVELAND, OH - NOVEMBER 8-10, 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 109

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THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
RAMCO SPECIALTIES INC.
5445 Hudson Industrial Parkway, Hudson, OH 44236
TEL 330-653-5135 EMAIL info@ramconut.com WEB www.ramconut.com
RAMCO EXPANDS PRODUCTION CAPACITY IN MICHIGAN
Ramco Specialties continues to make significant
investments in its Michigan facility. The company has
purchased a third building, adjacent to its two existing
buildings. The addition provides 10,000 square feet of
production space, creating a total of 45,000 square feet in
Ramco’s Michigan location.
The expansion is a part of Ramco’s ongoing goal of
increasing production in the United States. With the national
supply chain problems and lack of timely delivery created
by international trade, Ramco has made a commitment to
help alleviate these issues by boosting its manufacturing
capacity and ability to get product to market quicker.
This addition to its Michigan production space will
continue to bolster turnaround time of machining and all
turned products. New machinery will be added to the third
building to support growth in CNC mill and lathe production,
screw machine capabilities and grinding requests. Ramco
Michigan will continue to focus on its expertise in machining
for precision applications, particularly for the automotive
and aerospace industries.
“Ramco is always interested in providing solutions.
The difficulty facing so many US manufacturers to be
able to source product is a serious economic issue.
Our company is well positioned to improve the quantity,
quality and speed for filling the manufacturing pipeline,”
said Jeff Melick, Director of Sales Marketing at Ramco
Specialties.
Ramco Michigan can machine a variety of materials,
including multiple grades of aluminum, stainless steel, cast
iron, copper, brass, bronze and nylon. Common applications
include hydraulic couplings, adapters with O-ring and
screens, quick disconnects, spark plugs, compression
tubes, fittings, plugs with assembled magnets, bushings,
drive and pop shafts, nozzles, and shear pins.
Ramco Michigan is certified for IATF 16949:2016 and
AS9100D. In addition to IATF 16949:2016, Ramco Ohio
and Europe are also certified for ISO-14001:2015 and ISO
9001:2015. With engineering support and manufacturing
capability, the company is ready and able to support the
Tier 1 automotive market.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
RAMCO SPECIALTIES INC.
NORTH COAST FASTENER ASSOCIATION
7737 Ellington Place, Mentor, OH 44060 TEL 440-975-9503 TEL 440-350-1676 EMAIL lgraham@ncfaonline.com WEB www.ncfaonline.com
NCFA SCREW OPEN A SUCCESS! by Dave Audia, President
The 2021 NCFA Screw Open returned to Valleaire
Golf Club on Thursday, September 9th and the event was
once again a great success. The early fall weather was
perfect for the 70 golfers that spent the afternoon helping
to raise money for the NCFA Scholarship Program. The
refreshments were ice cold and the Winking Lizard once
again provided both a delicious lunch and dinner for all.
This year the team from American Ring won the
scramble format event earning a cash prize of $200
for their efforts. Second place went to the Solution
Industries team.
All golfers enjoyed various skill shot competitions for
cash prizes throughout the round as well. Bill Armstrong
and Robb Nardy each took home $100 for sticking their
shots closest to the pin. Jackie Ventura and Michael
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
Morrissey muscled up to take home $100 each for the
longest drive competitions.
A special shout out again this year to our beer cart
teams – Kim Arnold & Krista Osborne from Brighton Best
kept the teams well hydrated throughout the event as
did fellow board members Kurt Triptow and Frank Devito.
Brighton Best donated a great prize of tools that was won
by Tyler Davis of Dunham Products.
The NCFA would like to thank all of our sponsors
this year who were once again acknowledged with signs
throughout the course– we truly would not be able to do
this without all of you. And of course a big thanks to all
who participated in this event. All proceeds will benefit
the NCFA scholarship program so we again say:
Thanks to all!
NORTH COAST FASTENER ASSOCIATION

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ROB LaPOINTE HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT TESTING ON INTERNALLY THREADED PRODUCTS - ARE YOU NUTS? from page 8
IHE failure has been well characterized in research
studies over the last 60 years or so. There are many
phenomena that can contribute to IHE. An IHE failure could
involve one or more of these contributors. Although it is
difficult to pin down exactly what mechanisms will contribute
to a failure, it is well understood that, in the broader scope,
the failure requires these principal components.
[1] The material must harbor free hydrogen that is able
to migrate through the crystal structure of the metal.
[2] The material must be susceptible to becoming
embrittled by hydrogen and be of sufficient hardness.
[3] There must a sufficient tensile stress on or in
the material.
If these three conditions are met, a fracture will occur
in the time it takes for the action of hydrogen to migrate
and concentrate in the material. Figure 3 illustrates the
list above and the possible triggers that lead to failures.
For internal hydrogen embrittlement, the trigger is the
addition of stress since the hydrogen is already present
from a source related to manufacturing or processing.
External hydrogen embrittlement typically is triggered
by the addition of hydrogen from the environment since
a mechanical stress has already been placed on the
material in its service state.
In a bolted joint, mechanical stress is applied to an
externally threaded fasteners in a significantly different
way than to an internally threaded fastener. Although both
internally and externally threaded fasteners experience
compression and tension loads when tightened, only
externally threaded fasteners experience large-scale
tensile forces during loading. Figure 4 illustrates a bolted
joint. Notice that when a bolt and nut are tightened, the
bolt experiences a large-scale tension or tensile load
caused by stretching the bolt material between the head
of the bolt and the nut, which asks like a moveable head
on the other end of the joint. The atomic structures that
make up the metal (atoms and molecules) are bonded
together electrically through the electrical properties
of the atom’s protons and electrons. This electrical
attraction is analogous to magnetic attraction, which
you’ve undoubtedly experienced by placing a magnet
near an iron-based surface such as a refrigerator or
near another magnet. Electrical force between positively
charged ions (a charged atom) and negatively charged
ions or electrons is attractive in the same way as a
magnet is attracted to steel or another magnet. This is the
force that gives metal its solidity and strength. In Figure 5,
we see free electrons attracting positive metallic ions to
hold the structure together. If we apply a tensile force to
this structure, it will stretch, enlarging the spaces between
ions. When the ions are stretched apart, electrical forces
counteract the stretch to return the structure to its original
shape. This restoring force gives metal its elastic features
that enable a bolted joint to achieve a clamp load and stay
tight when wiggled.
FIGURE 3 - VENN DIAGRAM SHOWING THE THREE NECESSARY
COMPONENTS REQUIRED FOR HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT FAILURES.
FIGURE 4 - A BOLTED JOINT ILLUSTRATING A TENSILE LOAD ON THE
EXTERNALLY THREADED FASTENER.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 146

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CHRIS DONNELL IT’S A MAD, MAD, TRANSPORTATION WORLD from page 10
On the surface, it would seem that the announcement
of these fees is having a positive affect however hidden
below them resides some troublesome issues. At first,
there is a negative domino effect in play: the use of
equipment. By forcing the hand of the cargo owner to
move the containers from the port, it’s putting a massive
strain on equipment, from trucks, to drivers and chassis.
Right now, chassis, especially for 20ft containers, are in
extremely limited supply. Couple that with the terminals
limiting the return of empty containers due to space
issues, it’s causing issues that can potentially increase
the dwell times, thus making is easier for the terminals
to enforce the fees onto the cargo owner.
Another issue we are facing due to terminal
congestion is the quick turnover of vessels being
unloaded. With more than 90 cargo vessels sitting off
the coast in both ports, they are working vessels faster
than ever, often without loading empty or export cargo.
As I write this article, there are more then 70,000 empty
containers sitting at the terminals; containers which
should be returned back to the origin to be used again.
This is not just an isolated issue for Los Angeles. Failure
to return the empty containers is causing an equipment
shortage overseas and increasing the number of blank
sailings with the carriers. These issues are allowing the
ocean carriers, terminals, and trucking companies to
keep transportation costs elevated. Dare I say ocean
carriers to the rescue? Today, due to the massive
amounts of empty containers sitting at our nation’s
ports, ocean carriers have activated a fleet of “rescue”
vessels which have the sole purpose of sailing to our
ports empty and collecting these empty containers,
thus giving the ports more space to accept returned
containers and freeing up previously used chassis.
Unfortunately, these added costs to the ocean carriers
will be passed to the cargo owners by way of continued
high ocean costs - but it should decrease congestion and
speed up the already strained supply chain.
Several other issues will ring in with the new
year. Two of them are the Chinese Lunar New Year
Festival (CNY) and the Beijing Winter Olympics. The
CNY festival takes place every year and it happens
to be the world’s largest human migration where
the entire Chinese population goes on holiday and
manufacturing stops. Exports start to ramp up about a
month prior to this (January 31st to February 6th) but
this year it also coincides with the Winter Olympics. For
those that remember the 2008 Summer Olympics, the
Chinese government implemented stringent controls
in manufacturing to curb pollution and esthetics of the
local areas hosting the games and this was done months
before the games took place. It is no different this time
and importers should expect the same.
These events, coupled with the current manufacturing
issues caused by the lack of fossil fuels throughout
China, will have a dramatic impact on manufacturing
and shipping from this region. While we had seen a
steady drop in imports from China since mid-October,
we have already seen the number of bookings increase
for the final 3 weeks of 2021 and a sharp increase in
those bookings leading up to the 1st week of February
2022. Import rates did take a tumble in late October,
especially for those port-to-port moves; however, we are
predicting rates will start to climb in late December and
early January. They should remain at near record highs
until mid-March 2022 when we expect to see them take
another downward turn.
I also need to mention air freight. Since early
November we’ve seen air freight climb in excess of 30%
and more than 60% compared to the same time last
year. This is due in large part to importers scrambling to
get cargo moved before the holiday season. Importers
should expect air rates to remain elevated until we get
through CNY.
One situation we are keeping a close eye on is the
buying surge. Will it continue at its current blistering pace
or advance as importers desperately try to replenish
stock after the holidays?
CONTINUED ON PAGE 148

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 95
The National Fastener Distributors
Association is now accepting nominations for its
2021 Fastener Professional of The Year Award. The
Fastener Professional of the Year award was created
by NFDA to honor individuals and companies that
make a substantial positive impact on people’s lives.
The award recognizes individuals from a fastener
distributor or supplier company who make exceptional
contributions to their companies and to the industry,
as well as, partners or consultants who demonstrate
exemplary support of the fastener industry
Membership in NFDA is not a requirement to
be selected for the Fastener Professional of the
Year award. Self-nominations are acceptable, or
nominations can be submitted by others.
The deadline to nominate someone for the 2021
award is February 19, 2021.
For more information, go to www.nfda-fastener.org/
fastener-professional-of-the-year.

96
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
BRUNO MARBACHER DRIVING SYSTEMS FOR FASTENERS – EXTERNAL DRIVES from page 12
¤ Fasteners with square drives require simple
wrenches so they can be assembled just about anywhere.
¤ Repeated tightening is typically possible; however,
off-angle tightening is possible with an open-end or
adjustable wrench only.
Other critical features do not apply or are not
prominent.
External Hex
Hexagon drives commonly called hex are six-sided.
The fastener itself is called hex head cap screw or hex
bolt. It can be turned with an open or close end wrench,
adjustable wrench, and 6 or 12-point sockets.
Features & Concerns: The hex head cap screws are
furnished with a thick, hexagonal head with a washer face
under the head, to provide a sufficient bearing surface.
The washer face is needed to provide uniform friction
conditions. Hex head are not 100 % perpendicular to
the shank, without a washer face a given corner could
dig into the material of the clamped parts. Instead of a
washer face, they may be furnished with a flange that
too would offer consistent tightening. Nuts as well as
some hex heads can be provided with a chamfer that too
ensure smooth tightening.
¤ Hex heads need more clearance between screws
and walls and between individual screws.
¤ The socket or wrenches can typically only be
engaged when not rotating, there are special sockets
that makes it possible to insert the socket while the
screw is rotating.
¤ Screws with hex drives can be assembled just about
anywhere.
¤ They offer a great a stick fit characteristic. A
magnetized socket can improve stick fit.
¤ This drive has a poor off-angle capability. Open end
wrench can be applied off angle.
¤ This drive can be reused serval times. The corners
may be rounded during tightening and loosening.
Other critical features do not apply or are not
prominent.
Pentagon Drive
A pentagon screw drive uses five-sided fastener
heads, and the fastener is known as a penta screw
or penta bolt. Since five is an odd number, it cannot
be turned by open-end, adjustable wrenches or typical
sockets.
Features & Concerns: They are designed to be
incompatible with common wrenches, can only be spun
by specialized five-sided socket drivers. However, the
security feature of this design can be bypassed by using
some type of pliers provided enough force is applied.
¤ Due to the difficulty of turning these fasteners
without specialized five-point wrenches such as hydrant
wrenches, they are commonly used for tamper resistance
by public utilities on water meter covers, natural gas
valves, electrical cabinets, and fire hydrants.
¤ Applications include Manhole Covers, Waterworks,
Valve Boxes, Meter Box, Ground Vaults, Polymer
Concrete Enclosures & various municipal electrical
junction boxes… and much more
¤ They essentially have a good stick fit characteristic.
Typically, not a big concern for this type of screw.
¤ This drive has a poor off-angle capability.
¤ This drive can be reused serval times.
Other critical features do not apply or are not
prominent.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 150

98
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
GUY AVELLON WHAT FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT STRESS FAILURES from page 14
Stress corrosion cracking may also be found
around elevated temperature applications, such as heat
exchangers. Heat and some gasses will cause SCC on
many steels.
Austenitic stainless steels are quite susceptible to
chloride SCC. As an example, a water park used type
304 fasteners for assembly of the rides and base water
containers. The fasteners failed from chloride SCC due
to the chlorine added to the water for health safety. The
fasteners had residual stresses from cold working when
the wire was cold drawn and formed. The solution was to
use type 316 stainless steel.
Hydrogen Embrittlement
Hydrogen embrittlement (HEMB), or hydrogen
assisted cracking, is where the presence of ionic
hydrogen makes a steel brittle and susceptible to
subcritical crack growth under stress. Typically, this
affects high strength steels and alloy steels whose
hardness exceeds 36 Rc and material strength is 150
ksi and greater.
Hydrogen may be absorbed into a fastener from
chemical processing the steel and by welding steel with
electrodes that may contain moisture. Typical chemical
processing methods include caustic cleaning, pickling,
phosphating and during electroplating with the chromic
acid post treatments.
All of these chemical processes generate hydrogen
in their chemical reaction, which makes HEMB a cathodic
cracking mechanism. Decades ago, cyanide zinc and
cadmium plating were replaced with more highly efficient
acid or alkaline plating solutions which reduced the
evolution of hydrogen from the work surface. However,
baking is still recommended for high strength alloys.
For hydrogen damage to occur, the fastener must
be tensioned. Fractures occurring during installation
tightening are not due to HEMB. Depending upon the
amount of hydrogen absorption, material hardness and
tensile loading, the threshold stress intensity increases
the crack growth velocity of the hydrogen as it diffuses
through the grain boundaries to ultimate fracture within
24 hours.
Fastener fractures will generally occur at the fillet, or
junction of the fastener head and body. This is the area
of the greatest single stress concentration. Cracks which
originate at the thread roots are generally the result of
metal fatigue, but when subjected to tensile stresses of
a static or inherent nature while in contact with a mildly
corrosive solution, hydrogen is generated and cracking
begins at the grain boundaries.
Sulfide stress cracking is another form of HEMB.
This type of failure is predominately associated with oil
and gas pipelines.
Liquid Metal Embrittlement
Liquid metal embrittlement (LME), or solid metal
embrittlement, is when one of the metals is brought
close to its melting point, under stress, at high operating
temperatures. With some metals, it may be time
dependent at lower temperatures. The greater the
stresses the less time it will take for crack nucleation
and propagation.
Cadmium plated metal locking nuts (Class B and C)
are very susceptible to elevated temperatures. Though
the cadmium plating has been banned by the EPA and
RoHS, the military still uses cadmium plating as well as
some imported products. Since zinc and cadmium both
appear silver in color, it was traditional to apply a yellow
dichromate post treatment to the cadmium plated parts
to distinguish the two.
The problem with the cadmium plated lock nuts is
that when exposed to elevated temperatures in excess
of 400˚ F (204˚ C) the cadmium diffuses into the
grain boundaries of the steel to cause intergranular
cracking, even though the melting point of cadmium
is 610˚ F (321˚ C). The fracture may initiate with
either the bolt or the nut. In some cases, both may
experience fractures.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 152

INTERNATIONAL FASTENER EXPO - WELCOME RECEPTION
MANDALAY BAY, LAS VEGAS, NV - SEPTEMBER 21, 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 176

100
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
LARRY BOROWSKI GAGING SYSTEMS - PART 1: SYSTEM 21 from page 24
There are various “standard” methods of defining a
gaging system on prints, procurement documents, or
purchase orders. Some examples are:
¤ A general note somewhere on the documentation.
For example “Acceptability of screw threads shown on
this drawing shall be determined based on System 21,
ASME B1.3”
¤ The designation can be part of the thread
description. For example, “¼-20 UNC-2A(21)”, where
the “(21)” indicates System 21 inspection.
¤ There are also cases where you may want a
standard System 21 inspection, but you also want
additional features like flank angle. In this case, you
would use an “S” after the gaging system number and
go onto define the extra features. For example, “¼-20
UNC-2A(21S): Flank Angle.”
According to ASME B1.3 – 2007, section 4(1): System
21 provides for interchangeable assembly with functional
size inspection/evaluation at the maximum material limit
within the length of the standard gaging elements, and
also inspection/evaluation of characteristics identified
as NOTGO functional diameter or as HI (internal) and
LO (external) functional diameters. The easy way to
remember this is that System 21 only requires the use
of fixed limit gaging, i.e. Pass/Fail or Go/NoGo gages.
The nice thing about the gaging systems is that
acceptability is backward qualifying. By this I mean
that if a product thread is acceptable using higher level
inspections like System 22 or System 23 methods, then
it automatically qualifies the product to meet System
21 requirements even though you did not use Go/NoGo
gaging. For example if you are inspecting a nut per
System 21 and you have the Go/NoGo work plug, but you
don’t have the Go/NoGo minor diameter plug, there are
options. If you have an ID mic, you can use the ID mic to
qualify the minor diameter to System 21. Let’s get into
the particulars now, and discuss the characteristics and
appropriate gaging to be used.
External Threads, ASME B1.3 - 2007 Table 3
In this table you will find that System 21 requires the
following features to be checked. Under each feature the
acceptable gages are summarized. These acceptable
gages are detailed in table 1 of the standard.
GO Maximum Material
¤ Go threaded ring gage, split or solid.
¤ Go Rolls or Segments for Thread Snap Gages.
¤ Rolls or Segments for indicating gages with either
120 or 180 degree contact points.
Note: You are evaluating the Maximum Functional Diameter
using either a Go ring gage or variable type gage that
will actually provide you with a Functional Pitch Diameter
reading. Functional diameter meaning that you are
evaluating a group of threads all at the same time including
individual elements such as flank angle, lead, taper, etc.
NOT GO Functional Diameter
¤ Not Go Threaded ring gage, split or solid.
¤ Not Go Rolls or Segments for Thread Snap Gages.
¤ Rolls or Segments for indicating gages with either
120 or 180 degree contact points.
¤ Pitch Micrometer with Modified Contacts
(approximately pitch diameter contact) Cone and Vee.
Note: You are evaluating the Minimum Functional Diameter
using either a NoGo ring gage or variable type gage that
will provide you with a Functional Pitch Diameter reading.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 154

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 101

102
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
COMPUTER INSIGHTS INC. FIVE SIGNS IT IS TIME TO CHANGE SOFTWARE from page 26
You should not have to explain your business to your
software provider. A one-size-fits-all solution does not
address the nuances of your business, and that causes
confusion and delays. The people at Computer Insights
have decades of experience with the fastener industry.
When you call Computer Insights, you do not have to learn
how to talk to “computer” people. They know the language
common to the fastener and industrial supply distributors.
They understand what you are trying to accomplish.
[3] Lacking Access To Information
If your system does not store the information you
need to make crucial business decisions, you cannot live
up to your potential. It is almost worse when you know
that the data is in your system somewhere, but it is nearly
impossible to retrieve when and how you need it.
Your customers expect instant gratification. Everyone
involved will quickly become frustrated if your people
cannot immediately answer any question because the
information is not readily available.
The Business Edge TM
by Computer Insights has
intuitive, interactive, user-modifiable screens. All of the
information you need is where you need it when you need
it. Information you don’t need can be hidden by unchecking
a box. The Business Edge TM has thousands of combinations
of existing customizable inquiries and reports. If you want
to do something more, a single click of a button will create
a spreadsheet out of any piece of data in the system.
The Business Edge TM
offers a suite of RESTful APIs for
more complex projects. No one makes getting data out of
a system easier than The Business Edge. TM
[4] Limited Or Non-Existent Automation Options
Your software should know how you want to run your
company. Any extra steps or double entry is holding you
back. You risk making mistakes and upsetting people if
your system is not validating things as you work.
The Business Edge TM offers dozens of ways to automate
your processes. Automatic Replenishment System (ARS),
Wireless Warehouse, Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI),
Automated Direct-Shipments and Reservations, Automated
Surcharges, and Vending Machine Order Replenishment.
Data entry validation throughout the system as you
work. Eliminate double entry and ensure accuracy with
Avalara Sales Tax Calculations & Address Validation,
ShipEngine Integration, Fastener Supply Chain Connections
(Brighton-Best International, Kanebridge, Lindstrom,
Stelfast, and XL Screw Corporation).
[5] Missing Key Features Unique To Your Industry
When your software provider is not focused on
your industry, many things that seem normal to you are
frequently overlooked or not handled properly.
Since 1996, Computer Insights has worked closely
with people from hundreds of fastener and industrial
distributors. The Business Edge TM
evolved and continues
to evolve by listening to business owners, office workers,
warehouse people, and master distributors.
The Business Edge TM
can help you manage what is
required for you to be productive and successful. Things
like Raw Cost vs. Landed Cost, complex customer
pricing, alternate part numbers, and much more come
standard.
What People Are Saying
“Having a partner like Computer Insights has been
critical to our success. As our company grows, so does
our need for technology and consequential integrations.
As the pressure for efficiency builds in the American
economy, we are forced to find new ways to automate.
The pace of business is moving faster every day, and
to keep up, we must automate. Without the right ERP
provider, this can be extremely frustrating.”
Joseph Stephens, CEO, Motor City Industrial
CONTINUED ON PAGE 156

104
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
ROBERT FOOTLIK OPTIMIZING VERY NARROW AISLES from page 30
Regardless of whether the VNA equipment is manual
or automated horizontal travel need to be limited for
overall efficiency. Man-up forklifts with a driver position
on the mast have an additional limitation. At the forks
rise the speed slows and most vehicles will turn off the
drive motors above 12’ of lift. Therefore, vertical family
grouping beats spreading related inventory horizontally.
Conversely, totally random storage is always a losing
proposition.
High lifting, man-up swing reach forklifts cost over
$100,000 each, then add another $20,000 for controls
and actuators. Even on the used market a decent
vehicles will cost two or three times as much as a narrow
aisle reach truck. Automated equipment can cost well
over $500,000/aisle. Having this equipment sitting idle
or operating sub-optimally isn’t a viable option. This
leads to grouping the inventory into the smallest and
tightest configuration, which leads to only one vehicle
in an aisle at one time. VNA, by definition means no
passing in either direction and this limitation means
that every aisle is a “main line track.” Waiting time is
expensive.
Physical Considerations
Very few rental or “spec” buildings are designed for
VNA operation. More lighting runs are required to meet
minimal OSHA requirements of 25 foot-candles at eye
level while standing on the floor. Today light fixtures
would be for Light Emitting Diode (LED) lamps, ideally
with occupancy sensors on every fixture, not the row.
Retrofitting these in an existing building may require
extensive relocations of conduit piping and existing
circuitry. Fortunately LEDs require far less power and the
energy saving will normally provide an excellent Return
on Investment (RoI).
Floors are measured in terms of both level and
flatness. Think of this in terms of your desk. Obviously
it is flat, but if it isn’t level pencils roll off any your
coffee spills. Without getting into the esoteric technical
details, the floor specifications can dictate the system
limitations. Even ¼” deviation across a 4’ aisle will
cause significant leaning 30’ in the air. Shimming the
racks will help compensate, but cannot cure a poorly
poured slab. Spilling a bucket of water can provide a
rough indication of the floor quality.
Often neglected are considerations of floor to ceiling
temperature variations. Without sufficient air flow as
hot air rises it can be trapped at the ceiling level and
create temperature 20 to 30 degrees higher than at
the floor level. Common individual unit heaters with
relatively small fans may have to be supplemented with
multiple large diameter, slow turning ceiling fans. A
better alternative is a heating system that is floor or roof
mounted with high airflows to turn and mix the air and
eliminate stratification.
For man-up systems a fan directed at the operator
may help, but once the temperatures exceed about 92
degrees the body will no longer reject excess heat and
working becomes both physically taxing and dangerous.
Discovering and recovering an operator who has feinted
due to heat exhaustion can be a major consideration.
As mentioned earlier, an ESFR sprinkler system is a
vital component of a VNA installation, but it is possible to
operate in a totally unprotected building. Your insurance
carrier and OSHA may have valuable input that should
be tapped. Even if an ESFR system exists, periodic flow
testing is normally both an insurance and fire department
requirement. Take a look at the test results and if
necessary hire a professional or meet with the local Fire
Marshall to review whether there is enough water to deal
with what will be stored. Obviously plastic fasteners are
more flammable than steel or brass products, but both
come in cardboard boxes on wood pallets, wrapped in
water resistive plastic wrap. The basic premise of any
sprinkler system is that it will wet the goods and limit
the spread of a fire. ESFR systems are designed to put
out the fire. VNA limits water penetration and this may
present unacceptable risk.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 158

106
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
JOE DYSART FREE SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING TOOLS: CHOICE PICKS FOR FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS from page 32
Bottom line: At the price of free, it really does make
sense to check-out one or more of these social media
marketing tools to get a feel for everything these tools
have to offer -- and how they can substantially enhance your
social media marketing efforts.
Here’s a representative sampling of some of the best
social media marketing tools that are a great fit for fastener
distributors -- all available for a song:
¤ AgoraPulse (www.agorapulse.com/pricing)
AgouraPulse offers 40 free scheduled posts-per-month -- as
well as a content calendar to ensure that managing your
social media marketing is a
snap. You can auto-post to
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram,
LinkedIn, and YouTube on
AgoraPlulse -- all from one
dashboard. You’ll also be
able to use AgoraPulse’s
onboard analytics to assess
if your social media posts are
resulting in more traffic to your
site. You can assess social
media sentiment about your
company’s name and your
company’s online reputation.
Power users will appreciate
AgoraPulse’s ability to create
custom reports, which will
track just the things you’re
looking to monitor.
¤ Buffer (www.buffer.
com/pricing) Buffer enables
you to schedule up to ten
posts per social media
channel each month. And you’ll be able to post to up to
three social media channels -- bringing your total scheduled
free posts-per-month to 30.
Posting to Facebook, Instagram,Twitter, LinkedIn, and
Pinterest are all supported. And you can tweak Buffer to
schedule your posts when your audience happens to be
most active on a specific social media site -- say 9 a.m.
Eastern Standard Time for your customers on LinkedIn.
Plus, Buffer will even alert you when the posts you schedule
go live. Its dashboard is spare by design -- and easy to use.
¤ Crowdfire (www.crowdfireapp.com/pricing-page)
Crowdfire replicates Buffer’s free plan: Fastener distributors
can schedule up to ten posts per social media channel
each month. And you’re able to post to up to three social
CROWDFIRE IS GREAT FOR FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS LOOKING
TO DO A LOT OF POSTING ON TWITTER -- IT AUTO-RECOMMENDS
HASHTAGS FOR YOUR TWITTER CONTENT
MOST FREE SOCIAL MEDIA TOOLS ALSO OFFER FREE ANALYTICS
media channels -- bringing your total free scheduled postsper-month
to 30. Numerous social media platforms are
available for posting, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn,
Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Etsy, Shopify, Medium,
500px, Vimeo -- and a number of others.
Crowdfire will also recommend hashtags that will most
likely work for you when you’re posting to social media.
That will be a major plus when you’re posting to Twitter. The
solution will display previews of your posts for your approval
before scheduling them for live publishing. Yet another
bonus: Crowdfire also offers a curation feature. That which
enables you to capture articles
from thousands of sources,
offer article summaries, and
then post those summaries
and links to those articles as
a way to supply an unending
supply of content to your
customers on social media.
¤ Later (www.later.com/
pricing) Fastener distributors
looking for volume in their
posting will also like Later,
which allows you to freely post
up to 30 posts-per-month,
using one social identity.
Supported social media
networks are Instagram,
Facebook, Twitter, Tiktok,
LinkedIn, and Pinterest. The
solution also comes with easy
access to high quality stock
images you can use in your
posts.
¤ Friends Plus Me (www.friendsplus.me/pricing) This
social media tool offers an interesting twist on free usage:
You can schedule up to five posts at any time, with no limit
on the number of posts you schedule in any given month.
Plus, you can schedule posts using up to two social
network identities. Friends Plus Me offers posting to
Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Tumbler.
¤ Socialoomph (www.socialoomph.com/pricing)
Socialoomph also enables you to post as many times as
you’d like for free -- as long as you limit your posts to threeper-hour
using one social network identity.
Social media networks supported by the tool are
Discord Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Reddit, LinkedIn,
Mastodon and StockTwits.
JOE DYSART

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 107

108
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
JIM TRUESDELL RETURNING BACK TO THE OFFICE - WILL IT BE DIFFERENT? from page 34
Some of the old indicia of worker value seems to be
due for a reappraisal. We are accustomed to applauding
the idea of long working hours when perhaps that has no
natural relation to productivity or value to customers. We
all know people who spend and waste a large percentage
of their daylight hours at their office with questionable
accomplishments. On the other hand, some people are
able to get in and get out with all key responsibilities
fulfilled, or sales results generated. Unless the job is
customer service or counter sales and support which
must be available during all business hours, perhaps it’s
time to adjust our perceptions and our payroll systems to
reflect actual output. Maybe seniority and years on the
job are no longer a key measure of employee value when
systems, products and procedures are changing every
year. Intimate mastering of legacy systems no longer
makes a person indispensible in their company.
Working from home can be handled well by some
people but for others it’s a poor substitute, certainly from
the employer’s perspective, but sometimes also from the
viewpoint of the worker. Sometimes too many elements of
the home bleed over into work. Sometimes the problem
is work invading the home itself. We all have learned to
accept a certain amount of disruption from dogs, cats and
children, interfering and uncooperative spouses/partners,
as well as substandard technology and office equipment
and supply shortfalls when the employee who is servicing
our account is Zooming from his or her house. There is the
risk that a disorganized and messy household can detract
from the trust a client places in his vendor to whom
he or she is entrusting a task. We have excused this
because we have seen the pandemic as a disruption we
have all shared together. As the world evolves to a more
permanent state we might prove less forgiving. Looking at
the best interests of the home and family, some people
can’t “turn it off” and get into a fully committed parent or
spouse role without business constantly on their mind.
These people have a much better chance of living a happy
life when they can draw a firm boundary between work and
personal lives which going to an office and then coming
home provides.
Another concern about establishing a cadre of remote
or partially remote workers is that it will contribute to
class division in this already fractured country. Skilled
office workers and professionals will work where they
will and avoid constant contact with the maintenance,
manufacturing, materials handling, and physical laborers
who have no choice but to show up where they toil. This
division will be characterized by financial class, racial and
ethnic concentrations, and resentment of the privilege
enjoyed by the elite who are allowed to work from home.
This might be the big unspoken negative effect of a
transition to a partially remote workforce.
We are going through a time when there are shortages
of people to fill available jobs. Some people who have
gotten used to working from remote locations are biding
their time in accepting job offers that require an office
presence. In fact, surveys have shown that the majority
of those looking for work are seeking a position from
which they can work at a distance. Unfortunately, only
a tiny percentage of the available positions meet those
criteria. Most are service jobs in restaurant, retail sales,
equipment operation and jobs requiring human contact.
Once support funding dries up for these refugees from
the workplace they will have to make some hard choices
about the kind of job they are willing to do.
What about the impact on a person’s career
satisfaction and growth? Will people miss the camaraderie
and social interplay of the office? Will new and younger
workers feel disconnected if they cannot find mentors,
learn from seasoned workers, or impress the boss with
face time? Will we all begin to lose those social skills
that come from daily interaction with all the challenges
involved in working face to face with other people?
Remote work may be the job of choice--- but it may
not help companies succeed, only perhaps to attract
employees. It may not be best for the customers of a
company. It may show up in polls as what large numbers
of people want. But, as Mick Jagger said in the Rolling
Stones’ song------“You can’t always get what you want!”
JIM TRUESDELL

FASTENER FAIR USA
CLEVELAND, OH - NOVEMBER 8-10, 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 143

112
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
DANI FRIEDLAND CONNECTED FOR LIFE: RCSC HONORS ITS LATEST LIFE MEMBERS from page 36
Larry’s outstanding work has been recognized by
different engineering societies and organizations. In
1982, he received the James F. Lincoln Arc Welding
Foundation Merit Award for the fabrication of the
University of Iowa’s Carver-Hawkeye Arena, and in 1998
ASCE presented him its “Certificate of Recognition of
Outstanding Service as Practitioner” in recognition of
his long association with and service to the University
of Minnesota’s Department of Civil Engineering. In
September of 2002, AISC presented Larry with a Lifetime
Achievement Award in “special recognition for many years
of service to the structural design, construction, and
academic communities” and, in 2004, its T.R. Higgins
Lectureship Award for the best paper on structural steel
design for his paper “Design of Skewed Connections.”
Larry received his BS in Civil Engineering from
Marquette University and became a licensed professional
engineer in several states. During his professional career,
he worked on many committees, including the AISC
Specification Committee and the Task Committee on
Connection Design, the RCSC Specification Committee,
the Design Task Group of the AWS D1.1 Code Committee,
the ANSI Specification Review Committees for both the
Steel Joist Institute and the Steel Deck Institute, and
the SEI Committee on the Design of Steel Building
Structures.
Thomas M. Murray,
PE, NAE, PhD,
Emeritus Montague-Betts
Professor of Structural
Steel Design, Virginia Tech
It’s not a stretch to say
that Tom Murray’s work has
improved the safety, economy,
efficiency, and predictability of
every building, bridge, and other structure that has been
designed or built since he began his career.
Bolts were almost always a feature of Tom’s
research, and he has personally created the bases upon
which we have advanced the design rules for bolts in
the RCSC and AISC Specifications; bolted connection
design recommendations in the AISC Steel Construction
Manual, AISC Seismic Design Manual, and several AISC
Design Guides, including a number that bear his name
as author; and many other publications and resources
used every day in steel design and construction. Of
particular note, Tom contributed directly to:
¤ Expanded capability to use snug-tightened joints
instead of pretensioned and slip-critical joints.
¤ Rigorous, streamlined, and simplified design
procedures for every connection provided in RCSC
and AISC literature, thanks in no small part to his
pioneering development of expert-system connection
design software in parallel with his research.
¤ The viability and usefulness of bolted moment
end-plate connections for a wide variety of applications
in both R=3 and high-seismic applications.
¤ A steady and regular improvement of the
completeness and ease of application of language in
RCSC and AISC standards and publications.
¤ The education of the profession and the industry
through countless seminars, webinars, and workshops.
Tom joined the Virginia Tech staff in 1987 after
17 years at the University of Oklahoma, the last
year of which was spent as a Distinguished Visiting
Professor at the U.S. Air Force Academy. A specialist
in structural steel research and design, Tom was
responsible for the construction of large laboratories
at the University of Oklahoma and Virginia Tech.
His research and teaching interests include steel
connections, serviceability, pre-engineered building
design, and light-gauge design.
Tom has served with distinction as a member
of the Research Council on Structural Connections
and its Specifications Committee; a member of the
AISC Committee on Specifications, AISC Committee
on Manuals, and the AISC Connection Prequalification
Review Panel; and as a lead researcher involved in the
SAC Steel Project following the Northridge Earthquake.
At Virginia Tech, he was named the Montague-Betts
Professor of Structural Steel Design, and in 2006
he received the Outstanding Faculty Award from the
State Council of Higher Education in Virginia. Tom has
also received several AISC awards: the T.R. Higgins
Lectureship Award in 1991, a Lifetime Achievement
Award in 2007, and the Geerhard Haaijer Award for
Excellence in Education in 2010. He was elected to the
National Academy of Engineering in 2002 and became a
Distinguished Member of ASCE in 2012.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 160

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 113
Perfection Chain Products
is proud welcome Jackie
Colamatteo as a territory
manager. Jackie will be working
closely with Jerry Roscoe in
preparation for his retirement
in June, 2022, taking the Mid-
West territory over as her own.
Jackie joins the team with 14
years of fastener experience. She
started her career with BBI, where
she fast-tracked her knowledge
of nuts and bolts, becoming a
branch manager. Jackie then
moved her career to Stelfast,
starting in sales and taking
over the responsibility of branch
manager. She credits her time
at Stelfast for empowering her
sales techniques while receiving
the tools to be successful.
“It’s always a challenge
when faced with replacing a
44-year veteran, such as Jerry
Roscoe. However, Jackie has
the persistence and the drive to
make this transition seamless,
and I can’t wait to see her
success” Keith Burgess, VP.
Perfection Chain Products is
the largest producer of weldless
chain products in North America
and is also a prime distributor
of welded chain and welded
chain attachments, as well as
wire rope and aircraft cable.
For more information contact
Perfection Chain Products by Tel:
1-888-856-4864, Email: info@
perfectionchain.com or visit
www.perfectionchain.com.

114
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
HOWMET FASTENING SYSTEMS STRUCTURAL BLIND FASTENERS HELP ENGINEERS WITH LIGHTWEIGHTING from page 40
Adhesives can also be susceptible to degradation
based on atmospheric conditions or contact with
corrosive elements, raising long-term durability concerns
for many applications. Lastly, the environmental impact
of adhesives cannot be ignored. The disposal of residues
from the application and cleaning up of adhesives can
present problems, as can the recycling of end-of-life
vehiclesin which adhesives were used.
Welding
Welding is another widely accepted process for
joining metals, having been used invarious forms since
the Bronze Age.The twentieth and twenty-first centuries
have seen a growth in new welding technologies,
many in response to lightweighting objectives and the
introduction of new materials.
The growing use of aluminumin the automotive
industry haspresented two major challenges for
welding technology: electrical conductivity and surface
preparation. The high thermal conductivity of aluminum
means that heat must be applied four times faster than
with steel in order to raise the temperature the same
amount. While high current must be used to generate
sufficient heat to reach melting temperatures, this heat
must be carefully controlled because aluminum exhibits
low strength at high temperatures. For this reason, heavy
or loaded parts must be supported during and after
welding.Even after cooling, these heat-affected zones are
often very brittle.
In addition, welding differing aluminum alloys,or
aluminum to other materials, adds another challenge.
Each alloy has its own specificmelting point, requiring
different levels and speeds of heat application. Welding
aluminum can also create complex and unpredictable
microstructures in the heat-affected zones.
Where welds on steel show a color change at the
melting point, aluminum does not. In fact, aluminum
gives no visual indication that the area next to the weld
could melt, whichmay result in welds that are larger
than desired. Cracks in aluminum welds are another
significant challenge.Not only are aluminum welds prone
to developing cracks at the outset, they will alsonaturally
age-harden over time, further increasing the probability
of cracking. The high coefficient of thermal expansion
exhibited by aluminum means that it expands two
times as much as steel, so if the part is constrained
by fixturing or part design, this could also lead to
cracking at the joint. When aluminum is to be joined,
pre-heating and slow cooling parts havingdifferent crosssectional
thicknesses can help prevent this cracking
from occurring.
Surface preparation is another area where the
practice for aluminumdiffers from that of steel. Naturally
occurring oxidation in the form of aluminum oxide must
be removed from the surface prior to welding. Aluminum
oxide has a higher melting point than that of the base
metal, so if heat is applied whenpresent,the resulting
weld could be weaker or wider than expected. Inert
gas or flux are typically used to prevent oxidation from
forming after the surface has been prepared. However,
either of these oxidation treatmentscould cause weld
imperfections. In addition, the presence offlux could also
lead to future corrosion issues.
Structural Blind Fasteners
A third method of joining utilized by automotive
manufacturers is blind fasteners. Blind fasteners are
used to join dissimilar materials such as aluminum
tosteel, or aluminum to carbon fiber. Current applications
for these fasteners include window regulators, door
handles, and trim. Blind fasteners are low cost, easy to
install, and easy to inspect. There are two major classes
of blind fasteners: structural and non-structural. Today,
the majority of blind fasteners in use are non-structural
“pop” type rivets, which limits their application to light
duty-type joints, since non-structural blind rivetsare not
load bearing.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 162

116
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
MWFA AWARDS $42,500 IN SCHOLARSHIPS from page 44
$2,000 Morgan Ohare Scholarship
Veronica Evitts, daughter of Paula Evitts of Avante
Imports. Veronica is a sophomore (due to completing
her freshman year while still in high school), at Belmont
University, majoring in Nursing with a minor in Psychology.
After completing her Bachelor’s degree, she plans to
continue on for her Master’s of Science in Nursing. She
looks forward to becoming a Nurse Practitioner.
$2,000 Component Technologies Scholarship
Nora Chernosky, daughter of Daniel Chernosky of
Buckeye Fasteners. Nora is a freshman at Dayton College
with plans to get a bachelors degree in Nursing. Nora
has always had an interest in the medical field. She
finds herself not only interested in giving care but also in
the healing process as a whole, physical and emotional
healing.
$2,500 SWD Inc. Scholarship
Madison Hunt, daughter of Tina and George Hunt III
of Brighton Best International. Madison is a high school
senior planning to pursue her degree in Registered Nursing.
She looks forward to giving back to her community and
helping people. She wants to be someone that makes
people feel comfortable and someone who makes a
difference.
$3,000 South Holland Metal Finishing/Brian
Christianson Scholarship
Spencer Hyman, son of Jennifer Hyman of Kanebridge
Corp. Spencer is a freshman at Eastern Carolina University
where he is pursuing his degree in Education. He would
like to become a History professor. He looks forward to
educating the youth of tomorrow.
$4,000 XL Screw Corporation Scholarship
We would like to extend a special thank you to XL
Screw Corporation for donating a scholarship for the 23rd
year. We are very fortunate to have given out $62,500 in
the name of XL Screw Corporation.
The original idea of a scholarship program came out
of XL Screw Corporation and has had amazing growth.
Many students have benefited from this program since its
inception. We appreciate XL’s continue support to this
great program.
It is a pleasure to award this year’s XL Screw
Corporations Scholarship to Emma Pace, daughter of
Kelly Grindle of XL Screw Corporation. Emma is a freshman
at the University of Cincinnati majoring in Biology/Pre-Med
and minoring in Business. Emma’s goal is to become
a plastic surgeon as plastic surgeons give people hope
from their tragedies or take away the insecurities running
through their mind.
$4,500 Richard S. Piskoty Memorial Scholarship
(Donated by Clarcorp Industrial Sales)
Richard Piskoty’s life led him in many directions and
every path he took he made an impact on many people,
from the kids he taught and coached to the salespeople
that worked for him. It is because of his devotion to his
family, dedication to his career, and desire to pass on and
give back to others that this scholarship is dedicated.
This scholarship was awarded to Elias Hyatt, son of
Caroline Hyatt of EFC International. Elias is a freshman at
Missouri University of Science & Technology. He is planning
on obtaining a master’s degree in Physics as well as some
form of music. While he is unsure of his future career he
hopes to find something that is engaging and allows him to
discover more about the world in interesting ways.
$4,000 Brighton-Best International Scholarship
Joshua Church, son of Barbara Newman of Brighton
Best Internationall. Joshua is a high school senior planning
to pursue Nursing in college. A recent surgery experience
helped him realize that he wanted to be a nurse who
keeps patients calm and knowledgeable of what is to
come. He strives to always keep his values in mind.
$4,000 Raul Torres Memorial Scholarship
(Donated by Star Stainless Screw)
Raul passed after spending 50 years in the fastener
industry. He was a gentleman who mentored many.
Raul spent several years on the MWFA Scholarship
Committee. Because of Star’s generosity, this scholarship
will continue.
We are pleased to present this award to Ashlee
Jackson, daughter of Debbie and Paul Jackson of South
Holland Metal Finishing. Ashlee is a high school senior
looking forward to pursuing a degree in Nursing. She
plans to become a healthcare worker so she prides
herself in working hard and helping others.
Congratulations to all 2021 students!!
MID-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 117

118
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
LAURENCE CLAUS CAN SOMEONE SLOW THIS ROLLER COASTER DOWN? from page 46
Although the “experts” originally predicted that things
would be back on track by Quarter IV of 2021, clearly
that is not happening and recovery will be slow and is
now not estimated to occur until sometime mid-2022 at
the earliest. This shortage is having a dramatic impact
on automotive fastener manufacturers and distributors
as their customers are temporarily shuttering operations
while they wait for more chips to complete thousands of
incomplete vehicles currently staged in massive parking
lots and hold areas of assembly plants and to bring back
production to pre-shortage levels.
Although this shortage has captured our attention
for months, it is but one example of a component or raw
material shortage currently sending ripples throughout the
fastener industry. Sadly, shortages in steel, washers, and
plastics have directly impacted fastener manufacturers
while shortages like semiconductors, building materials,
metals, and plastics have continued to indirectly impact
the fastener industry through their customers.
Shipping
News flashes that key US ports along the West
Coast have been experiencing significant delays in getting
container ships unloaded have been prominent in recent
days. In fact, US ports have been some of the world’s
most congested with many more ships just sitting and
waiting to be unloaded than are actively in the port facility
being unloaded. It has gotten so bad in recent weeks
that President Biden felt compelled to step in and call for
round the clock operations.
The reasons for these delays, however, are not as
simple as one might think. Small disruptions in one part of
the globe can have significant ripple effects for extended
periods of time in other parts of the globe. The list of
unexpected events this year is long and troublesome.
A few prominent examples that have contributed to
this disruption include typhoons in Asia, rolling COVID
lockdowns in key Chinese container shipping hubs, and
the debacle of the Ever Given, the container ship that was
wedged in the Suez Canal halting all ship passage for six
days in March. Add to that the shortage of dock workers,
empty containers, and especially truckers, and, we have a
system that is in serious disarray.
Labor Shortages
Perhaps one of the biggest miseries in the US is
the current labor shortage. Stories abound of employers
large and small that simply can’t find enough help of both
skilled and unskilled labor. Just about everyone I work with
in the fastener industry has shared concern and frustration
in not being able to fill empty slots. Although apparently
the biggest shortfall dwells in non-manufacturing sectors,
there are few fastener manufacturers or distributors that
are not currently feeling some degree of pain in this
regard.
In August and September 2021, the US Bureau of
Labor Statistics reported record numbers of individuals
quitting jobs. In fact, in September 4.4 Million individuals
quit their job, breaking the previous record of the 4.3
million made only the month before. This has been
dubbed the “Great Resignation” and has many experts
scratching their heads as to why. Many believe that it is
the result of unintended consequences emerging from
the pandemic. Remarkably, the greatest percentages of
these workers are from the mid-career category, aged
35 to 45. Most likely these individuals will reenter the
job market, but this is neither comforting nor helpful to
employers who have lost key individuals that they have
invested significant time and money into training and
are now confronted with hard to fill organizational gaps
or prospects of having to engage in time-consuming and
costly retraining. Finding ways to accelerate training and
development of all these new individuals will become a
real challenge for organizations in the short-term.
Another problem that the labor shortage is creating is
that companies have to do more with fewer people. This
is leading to increased weariness and burnout among
existing employees. It is one of the primary reasons
cited by many of those who left their jobs in August and
September. I have personally seen the impact of this as
more than one organization has told me that they really
need to do training but simply can’t afford to release their
workforce from everyday tasks for even several hours of
training. Unfortunately, although this may seem like a
necessity now, it is likely to have major consequences
later on.
Inflation
The experts keep trying to convince us that the cost
pressures we all see going on around us are simply
temporary. It would be very nice if they are right, however,
the inflationary pressures are becoming increasingly
common and more widespread. Costs associated with
component and raw material shortages, transportation,
and labor are all increasing daily and being passed onto
businesses and consumers in higher pricing.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 164

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 119
OBITUARY
Ron Sackheim,
former President of
XL Screw Corporation,
passed away December
6th at age 80. Ron
battled Parkinson’s
disease for over 23
years. Ron was a very
passionate supporter
of the CBNSA/MWFA.
He has been on the
Board of Directors ,
was a past President of the CBNSA and is a
member of the CBNSA Hall of Fame. Ron was
a huge Cubs, Bears and Bulls fan. He enjoyed
travel, tennis, jogging, bridge, and neighborhood
basketball games. He especially loved music. He
took piano lesson and played the piano for many,
many years. Ron will be truly missed.
Donations can be made to the Michael J. Fox
Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

120
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
DISTRIBUTION ONE FUELING 2022 SUCCESS THROUGH DISTRIBUTION TECHNOLOGY AND E-COMMERCE INVESTMENT from page 48
By assigning customized roles and providing
onscreen alerts to tasks needing immediate attention,
users will be more productive and responsive. Order
transcription automation also reduces the time and cost
of manual errors enabling users to spend more time on
additional responsibilities within the company.
Business Analytics With Real-Time Data
Real-time analytics provide key performance insights
and help maintain smooth business processes by
seamlessly communicating relevant data across all
departments and teams. Tools like data visualization
of key performance indicators deliver business health
snapshots to help managers make data-driven decisions
to predict trends and quickly respond to ongoing market
fluctuations.
E-Commerce
Digital Commerce 360 reports that $791.70 billion
was spent online with US merchants in 2020. According
to US Department of Commerce, this represents an
increase of 32.4% from the year prior which saw an
increase of 15.1%. While this substantial jump was most
certainly driven by pandemic-related activity, the results
are too large to simply be ignored.
Year over year, E-Commerce accounts for a growing
portion of a company’s sales activities. This is not only
due to the pandemic but also because customers are
more tech savvy and prefer the speed and convenience
of online purchasing. Understandably, distributors and
wholesalers need to make their products available online
via an E-Commerce solution in order to reach and serve
larger B2B and B2C audiences.
To be successful, the E-Commerce solution must
fully integrate with the company’s business software to
guarantee customers have the information they require
to purchase your products. Blending convenience and
functionality, Distribution One’s ERP-ONE integrated
E-Commerce includes:
¤ Sales Order Automation – Reduce costs.
Eliminate manual order processes and costly transcription
errors.
¤ Real-time Pricing – Provide accurate pricing.
The webstore can display either retail product price or
the current contract pricing once the customer logs into
the website.
¤ Real-time Availability – Build customer trust.
Because accurate inventory levels are pulled in real time
from the ERP software, customers can trust that the item
they are ordering is in stock and ready to ship.
¤ Customer Self-Service – Reduce office calls
and inquiries. Empower customers to view order status,
reorder from purchase history, pay open invoices, and
more at their convenience, 24/7.
¤ Increase Average Order Sales – Boost
per order revenue. Tools like product swatches and
complementary items help customers effortlessly add
additional items to an order.
This is just a focused snapshot of the wide range
of tools and benefits that Distribution One’s distributor
E-Commerce delivers for your staff and your customers.
When working in conjunction with Distribution One’s
proven ERP-ONE distribution software, your company
will enjoy the productivity gains and expanded sales
opportunities necessary to thrive in 2022.
For over 25 years, Distribution One has helped
hundreds of fastener distributors and wholesalers
turn distribution technology investments into realworld
success. We’re ready to help you reach your
goals in the new year.
DISTRIBUTION ONE

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 121

122
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
NELSON VALDERRAMA 5 WAYS TO THRIVE IN A SHIFTING INDUSTRY WITH CONSOLIDATING DISTRIBUTORS from page 52
Let’s use a football analogy. A world class quarterback
can’t win you games if he has no one to throw to, but
real football fans know that more often than not, the next
most important player on the team is not actually the
star receiver it’s the relatively unnoticed left tackle, who
protects the quarterback from things he can’t see which
could injure him.
Many distributors are looking for those great outside
sales reps that bring in tons of new business, or key inside
sales reps that keep customers happy. But when was
the last time that the executive team of your organization
spent the time to look at all the positions and find that “left
tackle” that can help lift all the other stars on your team?
Tip #2 - Add Value Or Get Out
In the age where customers can find out how much
an item costs and when they will receive it with just one
search, on-site or local competitors cannot match up. To
stay competitive in this market place, you need your service
to make sure that’s something only Internet retailers don’t
have access too - a value add so unique its worth paying
more for!
Your company has to add value to the products,
typically through services that cannot be easily copied —
what Warren Buffet would call a moat.
Typically this process starts with knowing your customers,
their needs and having your team very close to the market
place. Observe your own customers fiercely, and what other
companies (including the competition) is doing as well. You
can start by making a list of all those special requests
you had refused to do in the past like special packaging or
labeling, kiting, inventory consignment, VMI, etc.
Maybe you can look into your lost sales log (ERP or
CRM) and find which parts or series of parts you had not
bid, then find some trends of product characteristics (sizes,
finishes, etc.) to give you a clue about how deep your
offering really is.
The most successful distributors I’ve seen are those
that have a stretch communication with their vendors,
and data at their fingertips to understand trends to make
business judgment calls about new products or services
they want to try.
Tip #3 - Get Digital Or Die
I am sure you will find the below information shocking
and upsetting. Your customers are using digital sources,
which are always turned on to solve their problems!.
The days of being able to “kick the can” another
year are long gone. The Millennials and Gen Xers have
been eager for digital access, but now it’s time that this
changed if you want your business to thrive in today’s
world!
In order to stay ahead of the game, distributors
should provide a portal for their current customers. This
allows them access everything from review available trade
credit and order history, set up automatic reorders with
ease all while tracking what you need next!. This portal
should provide customer-specific pricing, show current
inventory levels, have detailed product content that
answers potential buyers’ questions.
If you do not have a tier or tailored pricing in your ERP
or you do not have public pricing in your e-commerce site
(for prospects) you might be leaving a lot of money on the
table (1-4% margin points).
Tip #4 - Find Customers That Are Very Sticky
All owners know by heart almost everything about
their top 10-25% customers, but when I ask about the
customers in the middle of their profit range, they barely
have a word or two to describe them. But a simple
comprehensive customer categorization (also known as
segmentation or stratification) is the simple way to create
a common language so anyone in a company when talking
about any customer in that “middle profit range” they
would know immediately if that account is a “Core”, “VIP”,
“Standard” or “Drain” account.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 166

124
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
JO MORRIS IN-PERSON TRAINING EVENTS RETURN FOR 2022 from page 56
Fastener Basics Webinar Series
Sponsored by Brighton-Best International, “Fastener
Basics Like Never Before” is a 22-part webinar series
presented by Carmen Vertullo, CFS. Students can join anytime
and still complete the full series. Carmen is a master at
webinar fastener training classes and uses his talents to
present Fastener Basics in an innovatively new way.
Each webinar is 90 minutes including a closing
30-minute Q&A session. Jo Morris moderates the program
and keeps the class interactive. This fast-paced program
will cover all topics relevant to new fastener professionals
and get you prepared for advanced learning in our CFS
track.
Online Learning Library
FTI has an Online Learning Library with more than
40 on-demand digital training courses for fastener and
manufacturing industry professionals. The videos are
accessible on any device and both rental and subscription
plans come with reference materials and quizzes.
Corporate subscriptions are popular with large companies
desiring to offer continuous educational opportunities to
employees.
On-Site Training Opportunities
FTI also offers on-site training opportunities for
companies who want an instructor to come to their
location. This training is tailored specifically to a company’s
workforce, industry, employee experience and needs. This
option enables in-person training while eliminating the
need for employees to travel.
FTI thanks our Sustaining Sponsor, Wurth
Industries of North America.
For the latest information on FTI’s live training
courses, digital training opportunities, online webinars,
and exclusive deals, visit fastenertraining.org and sign
up for the email newsletter, or follow FTI on LinkedIn,
Facebook and Twitter.
JO MORRIS | FASTENER TRAINING INSTITUTE
NATIONAL FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION
3020 Old Ranch Parkway #300, Seal Beach CA 90740 TEL 562-799-5509 EMAIL nfda@nfda-fasteners.org WEB www.nfda-fasteners.org
NFDA SETS 2022 EVENT CALENDAR by Amy Nijjar
The National Fastener Distributors Association has
set its 2022 calendar with a mix of virtual and in-person
events. Be sure to save the dates! Here is the 2022
calendar of events:
2022 Events Schedule
February 9
Roundtable - Sales/Marketing, Virtual
May 11
Roundtable - Human Resources, Virtual
June 21-24
Annual Meeting & ESPS, Minneapolis, MN
August 10
Roundtable - Operations, Virtual
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
October 12
CEO Roundtable, Virtual
November 9-11
Executive Summit, Naples, FL
December 14
Roundtable – Sales/Marketing, Virtual
For registration information and to ask questions about
NFDA, visit www.nfda-fastener.org or call Amy Nijjar at
562-799-5519.
NATIONAL FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 125
MW Industries, a leading provider of
precision components, announced today the
acquisition of Fox Valley Spring Company, LLC,
a principal supplier of springs, wire forms, and
flat springs.
The acquisition of Fox Valley Spring
Company closed on October 29, 2021 and
expands MW Industries’ existing automation
and manufacturing capabilities for springs
and wire forms. The combined company will
offer extensive expertise in complex precision
spring manufacturing for a variety of spring
types including extension springs, torsion
springs, wire forms, and die springs. Fox Valley
Spring will join MW Components, the division of
MW Industries focusing on manufacturing highly
engineered precision components at speed and
scale.
“Fox Valley Spring is well-known for their
experience in creating the highest quality, custommade
springs. Fox Valley Spring’s technology
and expertise will allow us to better support our
customers as they seek custom springs made
from specialty materials, manufactured to
tighter tolerances,” said Simon Newman, CEO of
MW Industries. “We’re thrilled to welcome Fox
Valley Spring to the family and look forward to
growing together as we provide more products
and services to our customers.”
Fox Valley Spring Company is a
nationally recognized expert in custom spring
manufacturing. With the latest CNC coiling and
automation technology, Fox Valley Spring can
manufacture complex precision springs in a
single operation. The expert engineering and
manufacturing professionals at Fox Valley Spring
can design and manufacture custom springs
to each customer’s unique requirements.
“Our goal has always been to provide
the best products and services to our
customers – joining the MW family allows us to
do more for them than ever before,” said Keith
Wincentsen, President of Fox Valley Spring.
“As one company, our customers will now
be able to purchase products from any MW
location and request specialty springs that
leverage our capabilities as well as those offered
throughout the MW family.
We’re excited to provide those resources to our
customers and bring our capabilities to serve the
greater MW customer base.”
As part of MW Components, existing customers
from the combined companies will have access
to the full portfolio of products and services from
across MW Components.
With over 30 manufacturing facilities worldwide,
MW Industries group companies deliver the
precision components today’s engineers need to
do their best work. The business serves over
19,000 businesses across more than 75 countries
worldwide and in sectors as diverse as life sciences,
automotive, aerospace, electronics, and energy. We
have a no-compromise ambition to deliver exactly
what our customers need, precisely when they
need it. So whether they want to partner with us on
developing a next-generation product or need one of
our thousands of stock parts for immediate delivery,
we can help.
For more information contact MW Industries online
at www.mw-ind.com.

126
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
ANTHONY DI MAIO BLIND RIVET FAILURES & SOLUTIONS from page 58
Burr On The Hole
BURR
than what is recommended by the manufacturer.
Setting Tool Held At An Angle
Setting tools should be held approximately at a right
angle to the work piece. The hole in the work piece
is at right angle to the work piece. When the blind
The hole in your work piece must be free of burrs. rivet is in the hole to be set and the setting tool is
Burrs are caused by using drill bits that are not sharp not approximately at right angle to the work piece, the
and by forcing the drill too fast through the work piece. mandrel of the blind rivet is then bent and when the blind
The burr is always on the upset side of the set rivet. rivet is set, the mandrel will bend even further. After the
When you set a blind rivet in a work piece that has a blind rivet is set, the setting tool then tries to eject the
burr, the upset side of the blind rivet will press against mandrel from the rear of the setting tool. In many cases
the burr and the burr will cut into the upset side of the the bent mandrel will not pass through the tool to eject
rivet barrel. This burr will cut and crack the rivet body and and the setting tool now has to be serviced to clear the
reduce the clamp loading pressure of the fastened work jammed bent mandrel.
piece. This condition gives a weak fastened assembly. SOLUTION - Hold the setting tool as near a possible
SOLUTION - Rivet holes should be free of burrs. at right angle to the work piece.
Rivet Hole Is Too Large
LARGE HOLE
CORRECT HOLE
Blind rivet manufacturers list in their blind rivet
catalogs, the minimum and maximum hole diameter for
all their sizes of blind rivets. When a blind rivet is set in a
hole that is larger than the recommended hole diameter,
the mandrel head will travel the complete length of the
blind rivet body and come to rest at the flange of the rivet
body. This condition offers the following problems.
[1] Mandrel head does not clamp the upset side of
the rivet to the work piece.
[ 2] Reduced clamping of the work pieces.
[ 3] Mandrel head burr will extend outside of the
flange giving a dangerous cutting edge for
someone to cut their hand.
SOLUTION - Never have rivet hole diameters larger
Tool Not Setting The Blind Rivet In One Stroke
When a blind rivet is set in a hole that is the
recommended diameter and at the specified work
thickness, the setting tool will set the blind rivet in one
stroke. If, for whatever reason it is necessary to take
more than one stroke, the setting tool needs service.
When a setting tool strokes more than one time when
setting a blind rivet, the setting tool pulling jaws teeth
penetrate the mandrel surface an many places and can
cause the mandrel to break when the jaws are gripping
the mandrel rather at the designed break point below the
mandrel head and you will have a long length of mandrel
protruding from flange of the set rivet. The setting tool
jaws will also get mandrel material logged in the grooves
of the pulling jaws and this will make the jaws slip when
pulling the mandrel, thus more than one stroke will
be necessary to set the blind rivet. The jaws need to
cleaned and lubricated.
SOLUTION - Be sure that your setting tool is
serviced with Hydraulic fluid and have the recommended
compressed air pressure.
ANTHONY Di MAIO

INTERNATIONAL FASTENER EXPO
MANDALAY BAY, LAS VEGAS, NV - SEPTEMBER 22-23, 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 167

128
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
ACE BOLT & SCREW CO INC OLD SCHOOL IN A GOOD WAY - SERVING THE SOUTHEAST SINCE 1969 from page 60
Vendor Managed Inventory
Vendor Managed Inventory is more than checking
bins – it takes experience and know-how. Ace Bolt &
Screw uses The Business Edge, an ERP system developed
by Computer Insights specifically for the fastener industry.
The system allows them to set up customer bin locations
with bar code labeling. A salesperson or customer can use
a mobile device, like an iPhone or iPad to scan locations
and upload orders directly to The Business Edge for Ace
to process and deliver what is needed. Using scanners
with their VMI customers has significantly boosted their
speed and efficiency, a huge benefit to their customers.
They never make mistakes because they scan the exact
bin that needs to be replenished. They can also furnish
their customers with more information than ever before
with the usage reports offered in The Business Edge. They
visit their customers often and become familiar with their
parts and usages to ensure they do not experience any
downtime.
Tracking Products
Ace Bolt & Screw maintains an inventory for industrial,
commercial, and construction customers. They listen to
customers and vendors and stock what will help get the
job done. They have complete traceability of products.
The Business Edge software can effortlessly track lot
numbers and locations of products from the minute
they are received and through every step of the process
until being delivered. Bambi Wallace, Marketing Director,
shared, “without The Business Edge by Computer
Insights, our operations would be at a standstill. Keeping
track of things has never been easier; for that, we are
grateful.”
Poly Bagging & Kitting
Automated Poly Bagging and Kitting is another service
Ace Bolt & Screw offers. When you need items packed,
they are ready to help. They have an Autobag Bagging
System and can cut the time it takes to count, bag, and
label the parts they sell. Their system can fill up to ten
bags per minute; their customers benefit significantly by
receiving their bagged parts or kits in a timely fashion.
Looking Forward
What began as a hope and a dream among two friends
has become one of the largest fastener distributors in the
Southeast. Ace Bolt & Screw Co., Inc. ships products
throughout the United States and beyond. They have more
than tripled in size over the past few years.
¤ They are now ISO 9001:2015 certified.
¤ They expanded in the wholesale fastener world and
are one of the Southeast’s largest Dewalt dealers.
¤ They have a top-notch selection of power tools.
¤ They currently have locations in Jackson, MS,
Tupelo, MS, Gluckstadt, MS and Atlanta, GA
¤ They will be opening a new Richland, MS
branch in 2022.
More Information
Ace Bolt & Screw Co, Inc can be reached at any of
their store locations, or contact Randy Clark and Mike
Clark, Owners by telephone at 601-355-3448 or visit them
online at www.acebolt.net.
Computer Insights, Inc. can be reached at 108 3rd
Street, Unit 4, Bloomingdale, IL 60108. Contact Dennis
Cowhey, President, by telephone at 1-800-539-1233, email
sales@ci-inc.com or visit them online at www.ci-inc.com.
ACE BOLT & SCREW

130
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
IFE IFE 2021 RECAP & 2022 PREVIEW from page 66
With health and safety protocols in place, the
expo hall was buzzing with productive business on
the remaining days of the show. Noteworthy attending
companies included Fastenal, Bossard North America, D.B.
Roberts Company, Penn Engineering, Stanley Industries,
Field Fastener, All Integrated Solutions (AIS) and ITW
Shakeproof Industrial. Top exhibitors included Brighton-
Best, B&D Cold Headed Products, Nucor Fastener,
G.L. Huyett, American Ring, Doerken Coatings North
America and Durham Manufacturing. “Our team worked
tirelessly to ensure our fastener community felt safe and
comfortable at IFE this year, and we are thankful for those
that trusted and supported us,” added Morgan Wilson.
The overall sentiment of show guests was positive with
one exhibitor noting, “[International Fastener Expo is] the
most important and productive fastener industry event of
the year!” Many attendees echoed the sentiment, with
one saying, “I really liked the smaller show as I was able
to get better meetings with fewer distractions. This was
excellent for me and my agenda.”
Continuing the tradition, the 2021 Hall of Fame and
Young Fastener Professional of the Year Award winners
were celebrated at a ceremony at the Session Stage
on Wednesday afternoon. The Hall of Fame and Young
Fastener Professional of the Year Awards recognize those
who have made lasting inputs to the fastener industry
on a national or global scale, and leaders, 40 years old
or younger, who already have a record of integrity and
respect in the industry. Steve Andrasik of Brighton-Best
International, Charlie Kerr of Kerr Lakeside and Nancy
Rich of Mid-West Fastener Association were inducted into
the Hall of Fame. Melissa Patel of FIELD was selected as
the 2021 Young Fastener Professional of the Year.
The Session Stage provided the perfect place for
attendees to learn about the latest fastener trends and
tools, with nine cutting-edge sessions presented over two
days. Session highlights included High Demand and Longer
Lead Times – Strategies to Tackle the Post-COVID Supply
Chain Double Whammy with Josh Bartel, Co-Founder and
CEO Hydrian Inventory Optimization. Josh explored specific
strategies that can be used to minimize stockouts in the
face of huge demand and supply uncertainty. Nelson
Valderrama hosted another session titled, Did You Think
Artificial Intelligence is Only Being Used by the Largest
Distributors? Think Again. This session focused on
common misconceptions surrounding AI and explored
the benefits of incorporating the technology into your
business. Finally, Lyndon Lattie, Chirag Patel and Mike
Gray explained the benefits of adopting eCommerce in a
panel discussion hosted by Mili Dutta, eCommerce for the
Fastener Industry: Your Questions Answered.
After a successful 2021 show, many are looking
forward to bringing the industry back together next year.
International Fastener Expo 2022 will take place October
17 – 19 at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas. Next year’s show will
build on the momentum and excitement of the 2021, with
special events and networking opportunities, expanded
conference content and more. Exhibitors who have already
signed on include Brighton-Best International, Infasco,
Lindfast Group, B&D Cold Headed Products, G.L. Huyett,
Star Stainless Screw Co. and more. Attending the 2022
show will also give you access to Star Metal Products
and Pacific Bolt Manufacturing Ltd., brand new exhibitors
for 2022 and American Scale Co. Inc. and SmartCert®
by Aramid, who were new to the show floor in 2021.
Registration will open soon! To be the first to know,
sign up here. For more information on IFE, please visit
www.fastenershows.com.
INTERNATIONAL FASTENER EXPO

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 131
ROMAN BASI TAX MINIMIZATION ANALYSIS: HOW TO ADVOCATE FOR CLIENTS SELLING THEIR BUSINESS – PART 1 from page 64
However, the example continues and the buyer now
seeks to allocate more than book value to the seller’s
equipment rendering the seller subject to recaptured
deprecation (taxed at the rate of ordinary income). Here,
the TMA would not only provide the threshold amount
subject to recaptured depreciation but it would allow the
seller to determine alternative negotiation strategies to
help avoid the negative tax impact caused by recaptured
depreciation. Then, when the purchase price allocation
is agreed upon and in place, the TMA will analyze
factors outside the transaction that impact its outcome.
Factors such as other income within the tax year of the
transaction or loss carryforwards, both of which can
play a vital role in the overall tax impact. This example,
while simple, displays the value in the TMA illustrated in
its transparency and ability to balance each factor and
variable that plays a role in the outcome of a transaction.
There’s tremendous value and comfort in providing
sellers with evolving transparency of their transactions.
At The Center, in our forty-plus years of M&A
experience, we have come to realize the value of
analyzing every factor that plays a role in the outcome
of a transaction. More specifically, this value is derived
from the TMA’s ability to evolve such factors as the
transaction progresses in order to give full insight and
transparency to the seller. This insight not only provides
a sense of comfort to sellers but also offers a strategic
advantage in achieving the desired result. A TMA will
allow open dialogue between counsel and client in regard
to goals and strategy while ultimately delivering the
most advantageous structure possible when selling your
business. If you are thinking about selling your business
or in process of selling your business, allow The Center
to analyze your transaction using a TMA so we can
confirm you’re obtaining the greatest outlook possible in
your sale.
ROMAN BASI

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SOUTHEASTERN FASTENER ASSOCIATION
PO Box 448, Elba, AL 36323 TEL 847-370-9022 FAX 847-516-6728 EMAIL sefa@thesefa.com WEB www.thesefa.com
JOIN US FOR THE 2022 SPRING CONFERENCE by Nancy Rich
Southeastern Fastener Association will be holding
their spring conference in Greenville, North Carolina, at
the Embassy Suites Greenville Golf Resort and Conference
Center. The event is scheduled to take place April 25-27,
2022.
The resort is located next to the Preserve at Verdae
championship golf course, the conference center resort is
six miles from downtown Greenville and 15 minutes from
the airport via free shuttle, which can be chartered within
a five-mile radius. Enjoy made-to-order breakfast, and
complimentary evening receptions.
It’s not too early to plan to attend. Rooms are as
low as $149 with all rooms being suites. The conference
will host a Welcome Reception, Panel Discussion, Golf,
Awards Dinner and other events.
Enjoy the conference and spend extra time enjoying
Greenville. Nestled up against the foothills of the
Blue Ridge Mountains in the heart of South Carolina’s
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
Upcountry, you’ll find Greenville situated just about
halfway between Charlotte, North Carolina and Atlanta,
Georgia. Greenville’s friendly, thriving downtown pulses
with things to do year-round. From one-of-a-kind shops,
boutiques and art galleries to museums, tours and
outdoor activities, Greenville is a welcoming retreat for
visitors of every age and explorers of every type.
Watch for details at www.thesefa.com.
SOUTHEASTERN FASTENER ASSOCIATION

140
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
SPIROL SOLID PIN RETENTION FEATURES from page 72
Diamond Knurls
Although they are very common, diamond
knurls provide little value compared to the
other retention features. Diamond knurls
shred the host apart during installation and
introduce a risk of particles escaping the hole.
While they do provide some retention, it is
minimal. Diamond knurls should be avoided.
Barbs
Barbs were designed specifically for use
in plastic assemblies. The raised barbs are
angled backwards, opposite the direction of
insertion. The plastic of the host component
naturally backfills
around the metal
barb after installation
permanently joining the components together. Barbs
provide the greatest retention among the retention
features discussed in this White Paper.
Solid Pin Retention Features
in Comparison
SPIROL OFFERS APPLICATION ENGINEERING SUPPORT! SPIROL APPLICATION ENGINEERS WILL REVIEW YOUR APPLICATION NEEDS AND WORK
WITH YOUR DESIGN TEAM TO RECOMMEND THE BEST SOLUTION. FOR TECHNICAL SUPPORT, FEEL FREE TO CONTACT SPIROL DIRECTLY OR
START THE PROCESS BY SELECTING PINNING APPLICATIONS IN OUR OPTIMAL APPLICATION ENGINEERING PORTAL AT WWW.SPIROL.COM
SPIROL INTERNATIONAL CORP.

Rotor Clip Company Inc. has once again
demonstrated its dedication to continuous
improvement and commitment to customer
satisfaction by recently receiving its ISO
13485:2016 certification.
Described as the medical device industry’s
most widely used international standard for quality
management, compliance with ISO 13485 means
that the medical device manufacturing industry can
now rely on Rotor Clip as the one-stop-shop for the
highest-quality retaining rings, wave springs and
hose clamps for their assemblies.
Rotor Clip has been a trusted supplier of the
medical industry for many years. Receiving this
certification reinforces the quality standards and
reliability of its retaining rings, wave springs and
hose clamps, so medical device manufacturers
can depend on its products to perform safety
critical functions every time.
Companies across a broad range of industries
rely on Rotor Clip products, value-added services,
and expertise to build reliable and safe equipment
for virtually any application. In addition to
manufacturing high-quality parts for medical, Rotor
Clip also meet the stringent quality standard
of industries such as military, aerospace, and
automotive.
According to Rotor Clip’s Quality Engineer, Amir
Abdalla, understanding customer requirements
and working towards exceeding customer’s
expectations is key to better serving the medical
device industry. Abdalla stated “This is another
Quality Management System to be added to our
IATF, AS and ISO9001 Systems that ensure Rotor
Clip continue to deliver high-quality products that
exceed customer expectations. I am very proud of
what our team have achieved.”
Rotor Clip is a global leading manufacturer of
retaining rings (circlips), wave springs and hose
clamps and offers the widest range of products in
the industry with manufacturing in the US and the
Czech Republic and with operations in the UK. As
well as being newly certified to ISO 13485, Rotor
Clip also produces its products under IATF 16949,
ISO 9001, AS 9100C, and ISO 14001 standard.
For more information contact Rotor Clip Company
Inc by Tel: 732-469-7333, Email: info@rotorclip.com
or visit them online at www.rotorclip.com.
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 141

142
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
FAB GROUP FAB GROUP CONDUCTS SUPPLY CHAIN SYMPOSIUM from page 74
Jason Crow, Purchasing Manager at AIS added, “Not
only was the content excellent, but I was able to compare
and ideate some of our work flow designs for purchase
order formulation and execution that will save time and
improve efficiency within our internal purchasing and
supply chain management team.”
There have been some recent changes in the
FAB Group. In August, Falcon Fastening Solutions was
acquired by Trifast, a European fastener manufacturer
and distributor who viewed Falcon as a geographically
strategic addition to its business development in North
America. Giovanni Cespedes, Falcon’s CEO, noted that
the FAB Group was supportive and insightful in providing
him guidance and input on navigating the delicate
issues associated with selling an intimate private family
business to a public company. In September, Martin
Supply closed on the purchase of Capital Bolt & Screw
of Jackson, MS. Doug Ruggles was thankful for the
guidance provided by the FAB Group, and during the
Supply Chain Symposium, FAB members offered input on
the integration of Capital’s supply chain and purchasing
functions with Martin’s.
As Tim O’Keeffe, CEO of G.L. Huyett noted at
the opening of the meeting, “The FAB Group has not
only been key advisors to me in my business, but the
members and their associates have become close
friends and confidants. This is one of the best things
I have done in supporting my fastener career.” Matt
Goldberg, CEO of AMPG added, “This group is built on
trust and making one’s self personally vulnerable, and
in return the members offer safe and effective feedback
to help us improve our management and leadership.”
The FAB Group plans to conduct future meetings with a
similar format, and add various corporate functions with
an eye on overall operational excellence.
If you are interested in learning about the FAB Group
and becoming a member, email tokeeffe@huyett.com for a
confidential discussion.
FASTENER ADVISORY BOARD
FASTENER FAIR USA CELEBRATES A SUCCESSFUL IN-PERSON EVENT IN CLEVELAND, OHIO from page 88
show floor from all the fastener industry professionals
looking to reunite and get back to in-person events.
Given Ohio’s renaissance in advanced manufacturing,
Cleveland was the perfect location. We’re already seeing
the anticipation for the May 2022 show in Detroit to
continue the momentum.”
Fastener Fair USA is continuing its momentum into
2022, bringing our customers back together in Detroit,
Michigan, May 17 – 19, 2022 at the TCF Center (formerly
known as the Cobo Center). You can pre-register to
¤ Cleveland: The Perfect Location
“We were excited to return to Cleveland and
present the first in-person Fastener Fair event since
2019,” said Bob Chiricosta, Event Director for Fastener
Fair USA. “You could feel the excitement on the busy
attend the 2022 show here www.fastenerfairusa.com.
Interested in becoming an exhibitor?
Visit www.FastenerFairUSA.com for the most up-to-date
information on Fastener Fair USA or contact Event Director,
Bob Chiricosta at bob.chricosta@rxglobal.com.
FASTENER FAIR USA

FASTENER FAIR USA
CLEVELAND, OH - NOVEMBER 8-10, 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 159

144
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
STAFDA RECAP OF STAFDA’S ORLANDO 2021 CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW from page 80
Real fun happened at STAFDA’s Opening Party on
Sunday night! STAFDA did a buyout of both Topgolf and
Andretti Karts for three hours which allowed attendees
to act like kids again! Both venues share a common
parking lot so people could freely go back and forth
between the two sites. At Topgolf, all three levels of the
hitting bays were open and retired PGA superstar, Annika
Sorenstam, spent 90 minutes visiting with members and
offering golf tips. There was a DJ, caricature artists,
along with other entertainment to keep the party lively!
Meanwhile, over at Andretti’s, the quick moving line
for the two levels of kart racing was busy all night and
every arcade game was in use. Attendees also made the
most of the zipline, laser tag, and bowling!
Back to business on Monday morning, October 25,
for STAFDA’s General Session. State of the Industry
addresses were presented by STAFDA President,
Brian Gersten, On Time Supply, Suffern, NY, who
covered distributor topics and Don Kudlak, president,
Aerosmith Fastening Systems, Indianapolis, shared
the manufacturer’s perspective. Keynote speaker,
Bill Taylor, co-founder of Fast Company magazine,
highlighted success stories of innovative business
leaders he’s interviewed in recent years.
Monday afternoon was open for the Trade Show and
the rush was on as soon as the doors opened! Exhibitors
said traffic was heavy and distributors were busy in
the hall for the five hours. Tech providers and STAFDA
consultants were also available to meet with members
and they too were pleased with the level of traffic on the
floor. The distributors in attendance represented the
leaders in the industry who haven’t seen their suppliers
since STAFDA’s Nashville 2019 meeting. The ‘right’
distributors were in Orlando and they made the most of
their time.
Tuesday, October 26 featured two educational
sessions in the morning: the ever-popular economist
Alan Beaulieu, and cybersecurity expert, Mark Sangster.
Following their presentations, the Trade Show opened
again for another five hours. STAFDA finished it’s
three day meeting with a Closing Party which featured
professional synchronized swimmers who performed a
routine in the Hyatt Regency Orlando’s pool. The outdoor
closing party was held on the Hyatt’s terrace deck and
gave members another chance to reconnect after two
years of being apart.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 145

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 145
STAFDA RECAP OF STAFDA’S ORLANDO 2021 CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW from page 144
There has already been considerable enthusiasm
for STAFDA’s October 30-November 1, 2022 San Diego
Convention & Trade Show. This will mark STAFDA’s
first time using the San Diego Convention Center. Host
hotels include the Marriott Marquis, Omni San Diego, and
Horton Grand. Because the dates fall over Halloween,
STAFDA’s private Opening Party at the San Diego Zoo will
be called “Boo at the Zoo.” Members will have the option
to wear a costume and STAFDA will have awards for best
costume, most creative, etc. Attendees will have free
reign throughout the Zoo to visit animal exhibits and talk
with handlers.
San Diego Convention registration opens Monday, June
27 from the members-only section of STAFDA’s website.
The STAFDA Convention is a member-only event and to
join the Association, please visit www.stafda.org to review
membership applications and see the full list of services
and benefits. We hope you can join us in 2022!
SPECIALTY TOOLS & FASTENERS DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION

146
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
ROB LaPOINTE HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT TESTING ON INTERNALLY THREADED PRODUCTS - ARE YOU NUTS? from page 92
FIGURE 5 - ELECTRICAL CHARGES IN A METALLIC STRUCTURE GIVE
IT SOLIDITY AND ELASTICITY.
There are small-scale compressive forces being applied
to the threads of an externally threaded fastener toward the
non-engaged side of the thread, but these forces only act
in compression on the scale of the thread and are focused
on the thread’s root. What’s more, is the compressive
forces contribute to the overall tensile force on the body
of the fastener. Referring to Figure 3 and the list of
conditions required for HE failures, we see that tensile
force or stress is required for a hydrogen embrittlement
failure. Externally threaded fasteners, when tightened, are
under large-scale tensile stress. This enables hydrogen
to migrate from areas surrounding the place of greatest
tensile stress and to concentrate, causing microcracks to
form and facilitating the propagation of cracks across the
material.
Loading an internally threaded fastener is quite
different. The engagement of the nut’s threads against
the bolt’s threads and against the assembly being bolted,
places a large-scale compressive force on the nut rather
than a large-scale tensile force. The force exerted by
the bolt’s threads on the nut and the force exerted by
the bolted assembly against the nut act in opposite
directions, squeezing the nut in large-scale compression.
Referring to Figure 3 and the list of conditions required
for hydrogen embrittlement failure, we’re reminded that
tensile force rather than compressive force is required.
There is the possibility that a nut, having both material
susceptibility and sufficient free hydrogen, could acquire
enough large-scale tensile force to fail due to IHE, but
not in a standard application of nut and bolt tension.
When tightening a nut, since the threads have an angled
interface, there is a small component of the applied force
in an outward direction, causing the nut to expand and
placing a tensile force on the material. A nut’s ability
to hold the tensile load applied by the bolt against this
outward component is call hoop strength. A properly
specified nut for a tension application with a bolt will have
more that sufficient hoop strength to cause the bolt to
fail in ultimate tensile rather than the nut split through
tensional stress. For example, if we were to tighten a
class 12.9 socket cap screw with a class 12 nut to the
point of failure, it will always be the screw that breaks
due to tensile failure. Even at the point of ultimate tensile
failure of the screw, the radial (outward) tensile force on
the nut will not be sufficient to cause hydrogen migration
and failure due to embrittlement.
The probability of a nut failing due to IHE while
serving the role of providing tension in a bolt or screw is
nearly zero. This is not to say that all internally threaded
fasteners in all applications are not at risk of hydrogen
embrittlement, but standard application of nuts with
standard bolting products have minimal risk. It is for
this reason, that hydrogen embrittlement test method
standards do not include methods for testing internally
threaded fasteners.
FIGURE 6 - DIAGRAM OF A NUT CREATING TENSION ON A BOLT
THROUGH BEING SQUEEZED BETWEEN THE BOLT’S THREADS AND
THE FACE OF THE ASSEMBLY.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 147

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 147
ROB LaPOINTE HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT TESTING ON INTERNALLY THREADED PRODUCTS - ARE YOU NUTS? from page 146
In countless IHE tests that we’ve conducted at
AIM Testing Laboratory, there have been a few failures.
These are always exciting for us because (1) something
happened, and something is usually more exciting than
nothing and (2) sometimes we get to witness the failure by
sight or sound. Since the fastener being tested is loaded
to 75-85 % of its ultimate tensile load (ultimate tensile
is the minimum force required to break the fastener),
there is a lot of force on the fastener that is causing it to
physically stretch. If the failure is quick, the fastener acts
like a rubber band that has been stretched and released
suddenly, sending it flying across the room at high
velocity. For this reason, we place fasteners under test in
a metal box to protect staff and delicate measuring tools
in the surrounding environment that could get hit if an IHE
failure occurs. We have never seen a nut fail due to IHE.
In all the IHE tests we’ve conducted at AIM,
approximately 99.5 % of them have been on externally
threaded fasteners and only 0.5 % on internally threaded
fasteners. When we do get an IHE test on nuts, we always
wonder why. In our experience, IHE tests on nuts have
always been driven by customer requirements rather than
drawing or specification requirements. What’s typical is
that an end-user has requested testing in an effort to
cover all possible conditions that a product may face,
so they may have the best assurance that the delivered
product is fully functional. Perhaps they have a nonstandard
use for the nut that might put unusual stresses
on it and they want to ensure that the product is safe for
use in their application.
There are several method specifications that we use
routinely for IHE testing including ASTM F606, NASM 1312-
5, ISO 15330, IFI-113, SAE USCAR 7-2 and ASME B18.6.3.
All of these are developed for externally threaded fasteners.
I do not know of any IHE method specifications written to
accommodate a test on internally threaded fasteners.
Because of the low risk, lack of standard requirement
and lack of methodological resource, we always question
customers who submit orders for IHE testing on internally
threaded fasteners. At AIM, we take the position that
educating our customers is part of the order process.
Additionally, by reducing unnecessary testing, we can
reduce a customer’s risk and save some expense for both
our customer and our customer’s customer.
ROB LaPOINTE / AIM TESTING LABORATORY

148
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CHRIS DONNELL IT’S A MAD, MAD, TRANSPORTATION WORLD from page 94
It is safe to assume that replenishment will add
to the shipping bottleneck, but the true extent will not
be known until after the holidays. Another situation
that will affect the global supply chain rests on the
new infrastructure bill and how quickly the spending
will take place. Undoubtedly, this bill will infuse a lot of
new business, cash and growth into the Fastener and
Industrial sectors as it focuses on building more fluid
and seamless transportation processes into our aging
infrastructure. Buyer beware though, when inflation does
take hold and buying slows, importers will be faced with
having to trim excess inventory, otherwise they will be
stuck with product they can’t sell or will be forced to take
on potential losses.
In closing, while we are on the road to recovery there
are still may things that could hinder it. There are some
positive things taking place which will help to minimize
the struggles everyone is facing, but it’s going to be a
long time before we get back to a more manageable
level. Something to keep in mind: in 2016, when the
west coast port strike took place, the strike lasted for
a total of 6 weeks but the residual fall out lasted for
several months. We’ve been thrust into the covid fueled
bottleneck for 2 years now, so it’s really anyone’s guess
as to how long the fall out will last this time around.
Therefore, I think it is safe to say 2022 will pose more
of what we saw in 2021 but there is a light at the end of
the tunnel. Although this is the time of year when we all
typically take a deep breath, unwind a little, and spend
time with family and friends; something tells me there
will be more issues, trials and tribulations that will take
place. Make sure you’re investing in the relationships
you have with your logistics providers, as they are in the
fight with you.
CHRIS DONNELL
SOUTHWESTERN FASTENER ASSOCIATION
292 Sugarberry Circle, Houston, TX 77024 TEL 713-952-5472 FAX 713-952-7488 EMAIL swfa@swbell.net WEB www.southwestfastener.org
SFA HAVING THEIR BEST YEAR EVER! by Baron Yarborough
Coming off the great succuss of the San Antonio
Conference, The Southwestern Fastener Association is
poised to have their best year ever! Interim Executive
Director, Baron Yarborough, has worked hard with the
SFA Board and Committees to ensure there are events
for everyone in the fastener industry in 2022. Some of
the events include, Happy Hours in Dallas, Houston,
and Tulsa, golf outing on March 29th, Sporting Clay
Tournament on April 14th, and Distributor Appreciation
Dinner, free to all distributors, also on April 14th. Not to
mention their Southern Fastener Conference and Expo
September 28th through October 1st.
More big news for the SFA is the development of
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
their Premium Supplier Program, which allows suppliers
to increase their marketing footprint in the southern
region of the U.S. Current Premium Suppliers include
Advance Components, Star Stainless, Goebel Fasteners,
Brighton-Best International, and BTM Mfg.
If you have any questions about the SFA’s upcoming
events or would like to join the Premium Supplier Program
call or email Baron Yarborough, (817) 896-3315 info@
southwesternfastener.org
SOUTHWESTERN FASTENER ASSOCIATION

150
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
BRUNO MARBACHER DRIVING SYSTEMS FOR FASTENERS – EXTERNAL DRIVES from page 96
12-Point Drive (Ferry Cap)
A 12-point screw drive uses two overlapped hexagon
shapes, one rotated by 30°. Standard 12-point socket
bits and wrenches can be used for these screws. The
screw heads are typically flanged and may fit into socket
head cap screw counterbore.
¤ This drive can be reused several times. Depending
on material being used screws may have to be replaced
if used in a very high temperature application.
Other critical features do not apply or are not
prominent.
External Torx
An external torx has six convex protruding lobes. The
external “E” Torx nominal sizing is not compatible with
the internal “T” size (for example, an E40 socket is too
large to fit a T40.) These screws are most often found in
the automotive industry.
Features & Concerns: A 12-point bolt design offers
the same bearing surface as a hex head cap screw of
comparable size. There really is no difference between
the two, except the top of the head makes wrenching
a little different. Compared to hex head cap screws,
the advantages of these screws include higher torque
capability. A disadvantage is the higher cost involved in
forming the heads.
¤ The increased wrenching surface is a great
improvement for a 12-point drive. A user can get a good
grip on the outside of the head.
¤ The assembler can get it into a counter bore
situation when it’s hidden in a hole. Also, when there’s
more wrenching surface there will be more torque to the
wrench because of an increased contact area for the
12-point bolt.
¤ Typically, a 12-point bolt would be seen in the oil
and gas industry because heads can be recessed.
¤ 12-point bolts are also prevalent in engine
applications. Clamp load for engine applications is
typically higher than most other uses, a 12-point screw
can deliver high torques.
¤ This drive has a poor off-angle capability.
Features & Concerns: External Torx are well suited
for applications needing a “shallow” head, they require
about 30 to 50% less depth.
¤ They provide an excellent alternative to hex or
12-point drives.
¤ External TORX sockets are smaller in diameter than
standard hex sockets used for the same-size fastener.
¤ Screws with external Torx are typical only available
in industrial nations and even there they do not have
widespread use.
¤ They offer a great a stick fit characteristic. A
magnetized socket can improve stick fit.
¤ This drive has a poor off-angle capability.
¤ This drive can be reused several times. the corners
may be rounded during tightening and loosening.
Other critical features do not apply or are not
prominent.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 168

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 151

152
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
GUY AVELLON WHAT FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT STRESS FAILURES from page 98
A classic example is when an exhaust pipe to
muffler was repaired on a school bus using cadmium
plated lock nuts. The pipe and flange heated sufficiently
to cause the bolt to fail from LME before the bus left the
maintenance yard.
Large grain sizes are more severely embrittled
and the fracture stresses vary inversely with the grain
diameter. Brittle to ductile transition temperatures are
increased by increasing the grain size. Therefore, to
avoid any type of metal induced embrittlement with
high strength fasteners, make sure the heat treatment
produces a fine grain structure.
Zinc, lead, cadmium and tin can embrittle steel at
temperatures below each metal’s melting point. Zinc
can cause LME above temperatures of 650˚ F (343˚ C).
In fact, many steels will experience loss of ductility and
cracking during hot dip galvanizing.
Corrosion Fatigue
Corrosion fatigue is metal fatigue failure in a
corrosive environment. This is a mechanical degradation
of the fastener under the combined action of corrosion
and cyclic loading. Unlike stress corrosion cracking,
where corrosive pitting leads to the development of
brittle cracks, the only requirement for corrosion fatigue
is that the material is under tensile stress.
Corrosion fatigue may be mitigated by the addition
of alloys, cathodic protection, nitriding, plating and shot
peening.
Conclusion
Be aware of the environment for the application
and the fastener materials used for compatibility. High
stresses are likely to nucleate a crack in corrosive
environments.
GUY AVELLON
WOMEN IN THE FASTENER INDUSTRY
PO Box 242, Northvale, NJ 07647 EMAIL events@fastenerwomen.com WEB www.fastenerwomen.com
WIFI ‘WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD’ WINNER
Congratulations to Nancy Rich, such an amazing
Woman who has contributed to the fastener industry
in so many ways. We are honored to have you as a
member.
Woman of the Year is an award that
recognizes exemplary leadership and
success in the fastener industry. The
recipient will have a long and distinguished
record of advocacy for the professional
advancement of women. Congratulations
2021 Woman of the Year – Nancy Rich, Association
Executive Director.
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
WOMEN IN THE FASTENER INDUSTRY

154
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
LARRY BOROWSKI GAGING SYSTEMS - PART 1: SYSTEM 21 from page 100
Major Diameter
¤ Maximum (Go) and Minimum (Not Go) Plain
Cylindrical ring gages for Major Diameter.
¤ Major Diameter Snap Gage
¤ Indicating Plain diameter gages, major
diameter type
¤ Optical Comparator and tool makers microscope
with suitable fixturing
¤ Plain Micrometer and Calipers
Note: You are evaluating the Major Diameter either using
Go/NoGo styles of gages, or just measuring it directly
using optical or hard contact means.
Minor Diameter (rounded root – UNJ, MJ only)
¤ Minor Diameter Snap Gage
¤ Minor Diameter Indicating Gage
¤ Optical Comparator and tool makers microscope
with suitable fixturing
Note: You are using either optical means or some
other type of hard gaging that will pick up on the
minor diameter and not interfere with the helix angle
of the fastener. The maximum minor diameter limit is
acceptable when product passes Go gage on UN, UNR,
UNJ, M, and MJ threads.
Internal Threads, ASME B1.3 - 2007 Table 4
In this table you will find that System 21 requires the
following features to be checked. Under each feature the
acceptable gages are summarized. These acceptable
gages are detailed in table 2 of the standard.
GO Maximum Material
¤ Go Threaded Plug Gage.
¤ Go Rolls or Segments for an indicating gage with
120 or 180 degree contact points.
Note: You are checking the Functional Diameter using
either a Go plug or some type of direct measurement
gage that will evaluate multiple threads at the same
time. The minimum Major diameter limit is acceptable
when the product passes the Go plug gage.
NOT GO Functional Diameter
¤ Not Go Threaded Plug Gage.
¤ Go Rolls or Segments for an indicating gage with
120 or 180 degree contact points.
Note: You are checking the Functional Diameter using
either a NoGo plug or some type of direct measurement
gage that will evaluate multiple threads at the same
time. There are no “NoGo” segments or rolls which is
why they are also listed as “Go”.
Minor Diameter
¤ Minimum (Go) and Maximum (Not Go) Plain
Cylindrical plug gage for minor diameter.
¤ Minor diameter type indicating gage
¤ Optical comparator and toolmakers microscope
with suitable fixturing and cast replica.
¤ Linear measuring machine with required accessories
¤ Coordinate measuring machine with required
accessories
Note: You are checking the minor diameter using either
a go/nogo cylindrical plug gage, or some type of direct
measurement gage.
System 21 measurements are the simplest and most
commonly used Gaging System. A quick way to remember
System 21 is to say that it requires pass/fail evaluation
only, with no actual data. Should you not have pass/fail
(Go/NoGo) gages for a particular feature then a direct
measure style of gage is also acceptable.
LARRY BOROWSKI | GREENSLADE & COMPANY INC

156
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
COMPUTER INSIGHTS INC. FIVE SIGNS IT IS TIME TO CHANGE SOFTWARE from page 102
What People Are Saying
“Choosing The Business Edge TM
helped us streamline
all of our processes and eliminated ALL the hiccups and
issues we had with previous ERP packages. If you’re in the
fastener business, I’m not sure why you’d use or entertain
anything else.”
Steve Parham, Operations Manager, Solution Industries
“When moving to The Business Edge, TM
we were very
pleased to find out how much better the customer support
was compared to our previous vendor. The people at
Computer Insights are very helpful and make our lives
easier.”
Eric Seiden, Chief Purchasing Officer, Interstate Screw
Corporation
“We have grown our business without increasing
overhead because The Business Edge TM
allows us to do
more with fewer people. Computer Insights makes it a
breeze to get support quickly and efficiently. We decided
to go with The Business Edge TM
almost twenty years ago.
To date, we still say, one of the best decisions we’ve ever
made with our business.”
Rick Johnson, Executive Stewardship Officer, RC
Fasteners & Components
Start Saving Time & Money
For more information about The Business Edge TM
contact Dennis Cowhey, President, Computer Insights,
Inc. 108 Third Street, Bloomingdale, IL 60108. Tel:
1-800-539-1233, email: sales@ci-inc.com or visit them
online at www.ci-inc.com.
COMPUTER INSIGHTS, INC.
NEW ENGLAND FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION
PO Box 151, Lake Zurich, IL 60047 TEL 847-370-9022 TEL 847-516-6728 TEL nancy@nefda.com TEL www.nefda.com
NEFDA VIRTUAL HOLIDAY PARTY by Nancy Rich
Fun and Chance for Members to Unite
After the success of last year’s event, the NEFDA
once again kicked off the holidays with a virtual raffle
on December 1st. Matthew Callahan of Callahan Sales
hosted a fun evening with members and attendees
while Laura Driver of D.B. Roberts coordinated our event
presentation – both did a fantastic job! A big ‘THANK YOU’
to the generosity of our sponsors who donated some
wonderful prizes; we couldn’t have done it without you.
Prizes included a fire pit, 32” TV’s, a Nest thermostat, a
Yeti cooler, a backpack, an Omaha Steak gift package,
Apple AirPods, an air fryer, and over $1000 in a variety of
gift cards. We had a bunch of winners and all the proceeds
went straight to the NEFDA scholarship fund.
Members who attended the event also took part in a
holiday “ugly” sweater contest and holiday drink contest.
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
Corey Magyar of Smith Associates was the winner of the
“ugly” sweater contest and Al Fowler of D.B. Roberts was
the winner of the holiday drink contest. Congratulations to
Corey and Al!
A big THANK YOU to our many sponsors who
made this a special event possible:
¤ Arnold Supply Inc.
¤ Brighton Best International
¤ Cable Tie Express
¤ Callahan Sales
¤ Crescent Mfg.
¤ D. B. Roberts
¤ EFC International
¤ Fall River Mfg.
¤ Kanebridge Corp.
¤ North East Fastener Corp.
¤ Rick Rudolph Associates
¤ R. W. Rundle Associates
¤ Soule, Blake & Weschler
¤ Sherex Fastening Solutions
¤ Smith Associates
¤ Spirol International
¤ Star Stainless Screw
¤ Stelfast
¤ U.S. Fastener Sources
¤ Vertex Distribution
NEW ENGLAND FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION

158
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
ROBERT FOOTLIK OPTIMIZING VERY NARROW AISLES from page 104
Making VNA Work In Your Context
The next concern is productivity. Analyzing and
potentially exploiting thisbreaks into horizontal and a
vertical components. Concentrating the inventory into
a tighter configuration means less horizontal movement
will be required. Narrowing the aisles to VNA distances
makes it impossible for two pallet loads or fork lifts to
pass in a picking aisle. This implies that only one truck
at a time can work in this aisle, or a very sophisticated
Warehouse Management System (WMS) must be in
place. If there is only one picker/vehicle working in
the warehouse, this is not a problem. Adding fork
lifts with aisles of less than 8’ will require some strategy
for splitting the orders, then mating the pieces together
prior to shipping. A good WMS given the right information
and working with context specific programs can handle
this. A poor system will fail. For most packaged WMS
programs based solely on popularity of product placement
travel times might decrease, but never optimize. In an
OEM distribution environment customers inevitably order
by their own defined family group which includes related
part numbers that may be quite limited in both the pieces
and the number of times picked.
According to accepted practices of Industrial
Engineering, the fastest moving items should be stored
closest to the front of the warehouse, with slow-moving
materials at the back of the storage area. This may be true,
but only for product families. In reality, most products have
an affinity for other items or families. Profiling a narrow
aisle warehouse must therefore take into consideration
both the vertical and horizontal travel speeds of the
equipment. It is far faster to store slow moving, related
items vertically, rather than spreading them throughout
the warehouse. Miss-profiling the pallet racks can reduce
productivity and throughput. Placing items randomly, or by
rules that ignore product affinity, guarantees that there will
never be a payback for the new equipment.
Consider a manufactured product with flanges that
require 8 cap screws, 8 washers and 8 nuts. When this
is assembled a special anti-gall paste must be applied.
If the chemical is sold by the tube or case of tubes the
ratio between fastener and thread treatment dictates that
although the items are related the quantities and picking
hits will be radically different. Under VNA planning the fast
moving Stock Keeping Units (SKUs) should be near the
floor level and the related, slower moving inventory directly
above it. “Popping up” is far faster than moving vertically,
even in a fully automated system.
Aisles that are 4’ to 6’ wide are too narrow for an
operator to traverse without hitting the racks or pallets.
Electronic guidance systems, and/or steel angle iron
guide rails are an absolute necessity. With the forklift
contained in the aisle, and self steering, the operator can
focus on the task of moving to the right bin and picking
the right materials. These systems are expensive to
install, and in a rental facility the cost of installation may
not be recoverable over the period of the lease. While the
electronic controls and steel can be reutilized, the cost of
moving these components to a new building can negate
the space savings. Even with wire guidance and fail safe
systems guide rails and guard posts are vital.
Another important layout consideration is the width of
any cross aisles. VNA equipment may require clearances
of 12’-6” to 16’-0” to turn from one aisle and enter an
adjacent aisle. If the picking aisles are short, then space
that is saved in the narrow aisle will be squandered in
the cross aisle. Some vendors have suggested that this
condition can be alleviated by eliminating one, or more,
of the cross aisles. On paper this looks good, but in the
real world, the savings in space is traded for reduced
throughput. An operator who needs to go from the rear
of dead ending aisle one to the rear of aisle two must
backtrack to the cross aisle. This could result in miles
per year of travel to move only 12’ sideways.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 170

FASTENER FAIR USA
CLEVELAND, OH - NOVEMBER 8-10, 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 169

160
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
DANI FRIEDLAND CONNECTED FOR LIFE: RCSC HONORS ITS LATEST LIFE MEMBERS from page 112
William A. Thornton,
PE, NAE, PhD,
Former President of Cives
Engineering Corporation
Bill Thornton’s greatest
impacts on the bolting industry
arguably result from the 26
years he spent as chair of the
AISC Committee on Manuals
and Textbooks (from 1985 to 2011). During this
time, the coverage of connection design and bolting
related topics in the AISC Steel Construction Manual
expanded significantly. Under Bill’s stewardship, the
Manual focused on providing simple and practical
guidance related to many common bolted connections
that remain firmly rooted in first principles. This work
influences thousands of engineers and likely millions of
tons of structural steel.
Beyond providing a guiding hand for the industry,
Bill also contributed directly to the body of knowledge by
formalizing the treatment of prying action for both bearing
and slip-critical connections, developing procedures
to evaluate the rotational ductility of bolted simple
beam end connections, and shepherding the adoption
of improved design procedures for single-plate shear
connections and vertical brace connections. If not for
Bill’s work, high-strength bolted connections would be
less efficient, safe, and prevalent than they are today.
As president of Cives Engineering, Bill was
responsible for all structural design performed by Cives
Engineering and served as a consultant to the six
divisions of Cives Steel Company in matters relating to
quality assurance, connection design, and fabrication
practices. He has nearly six decades of experience in
teaching, research, consulting, and practice in the area
of structural analysis and design. He won AISC’s 1995
T.R. Higgins Lectureship Award, a 2003 AISC Lifetime
Achievement Award, and the 2004 Craftsmanship Award
of the General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen of
the City of New York. He was inducted into the National
Academy of Engineering in 2013. Bill has also, obviously,
been a longstanding member of the Research Council on
Structural Connections.
Raymond Tide, PE, PhD,
Principal, Wiss, Janney,
Elstner Associates, Inc.
If you were to walk into Ray
Tide’s office at WJE, you would
sense that he is a real steel
lover. His bookshelves are filled
with references and reports that
encompass structural steel and
bolting over the past sixty years.
He joined RCSC in 1982, serving on the Council’s
Executive Committee multiple times and as Chair of the
RCSC from 2000 to 2006. His participation on the Council
resulted in significant improvements in our understanding of
bolt design provisions, including his work in long joints that
yielded more economical connections. He led committees
on research needs as well as bolts under tension and
prying action and has also been an active member of the
Specifications Committee.
He is a registered professional engineer in multiple
U.S. states and Canadian provinces. In addition to his long
history with AISC and RCSC, Ray has been closely involved
with the development of the American Welding Society’s
(AWS) D1.1 Structural Welding Code – Steel and the
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Subcommittee
on Structural Connections, as well as the Structural
Engineers Association of California (SEAOC) and Applied
Technology Council (ATC) following the 1994 Northridge
earthquake.
A University of Manitoba and Lehigh University graduate,
Ray served three years as an officer in the Canadian Army
Corps of Engineers, spending some time abroad on the
Sinai Peninsula. He joined AISC in Minnesota as a technical
representative after completing his doctoral studies at
Washington University in St. Louis in 1971. While at AISC,
he is credited with compiling the first version of the steel
shapes database in 1980, in conjunction with the release
of the 8th edition Manual of Steel Construction. From
AISC, he moved on to become manager of engineering for
Paxton Vierling Steel, where he was responsible for design,
fabrication, and quality control. During this time and until
his retirement to emeritus status in 2014, Ray was actively
involved in numerous AISC technical, special task force,
and ad hoc committees. Ray joined WJE in 1982, bringing
his background in structural steel to the practice of failure
investigations and rehabilitation designs.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 161

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 161
DANI FRIEDLAND CONNECTED FOR LIFE: RCSC HONORS ITS LATEST LIFE MEMBERS from page 160
Joseph A. Yura, PE, NAE, PhD,
Emeritus Professor in Civil
Engineering, The University
of Texas at Austin
Joe Yura’s meticulous
research and skill transforming
that research into practice
by crafting clear specification
requirements have greatly
advanced the use of bolted connections in buildings,
bridges, and ancillary structures. Joe stands out as a
leader in developing the understanding of connection
behavior and translating that knowledge through the RCSC
and AISC specifications.
Besides his contribution to the design of bolted
connections, Joe was very active in the development of
bracing provisions for columns and girders as well as
composite construction, offshore tubular structures, and
elastomeric bearings. He also served as director of the
Ferguson Structural Engineering Laboratory.
In 2000, he was elected to the National Academy of
Engineering for his work in the stability and bracing of steel
structures. His research in bolted connections improved
understanding and design of double row shear web
connections and block shear behavior of connections in
coped beams. He also developed the bearing deformation
limit in bolted connections, the effect of fillers upon the
shear strength of bolted connections, the method for
testing the slip behavior of coated surfaces, including
galvanized surfaces, and the effect of lubrication and
thread fit upon the tightening behavior of coated fasteners.
He served 32 years as a member of the AISC
Specification Committee and has received a Lifetime
Achievement Award and Geerhard Haaijer Award for
Excellence in Education from AISC, as well as the T.R.
Higgins Lectureship Award in 1974. He also received
ASCE’s Short-ridge Hardesty Award in 1997 and SSRC’s
Lynn S. Beedle Award in 2006.
DANI FRIEDLAND

162
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
HOWMET FASTENING SYSTEMS STRUCTURAL BLIND FASTENERS HELP ENGINEERS WITH LIGHTWEIGHTING from page 114
Structural blind fasteners offer similar benefits
to those of non-structural blind fasteners, while also
providinga distinct advantage:quantifiable and predictable
shear and tensile strength. Unlike “pop” type rivets,
structural blind rivets retain their mandrel after installation.
This retention of the mandrel is made possible by the
interaction of the mandrel and mandrel sleeve during
the installation process. The presence of the mandrel
accounts for a 60-80% increase in load-carrying ability in
shear and tensile over conventional non-structural blind
fasteners. Structural blind fasteners can be differentiated
from non-structural not only by their overall increased level
of strength,but also by the fact that their published shear
values will be higher than theirtensile values.
Structural blind fasteners install quickly (often in under
one second), by a single operator from one side of the
material. Operator training is simple, and does not require
any sort of certification. Also, special training is also not a
requirement for inspection, since the visual inspection of
structural blind fastenersis based solely on the position of
the mandrel break location relative to the sleeve.
CUTAWAY OF AN INSTALLED STRUCTURAL BLIND FASTENER
SHOWING BOTH A RETAINED MANDREL AND A FLUSH BREAK.
Many attributes make structural blind fasteners ideal
for fastening dissimilar materials. These fastenersare
available in a variety of materials, diameters, head styles,
coatings, and structural strengths. They join material
through either hole-fill or surface bearing. Hole-filling
blind fasteners ensure holes remain correctly aligned
after installation, preventing “sheet creep,” while surface
bearing blind fasteners may be used with thin or brittle
materialor where high tear out loads are required. These
surface bearing fastenersmay also be usedin situations
with slotted holes on the blind side of the application.
Installation of structural blind fasteners is both safe
and simple. No fumes are emitted in the installation
process, no heat is used, and surfaces do not have to
be cleaned or pretreated. The availability of material and
coating options for structural blind fasteners virtually
eliminates concerns about surface oxidation. Some
structural blind fasteners even include undercut filets on
the sleeves, ensuring that they seat properly and require
no grinding or de-burring of the hole surface.
Installed structural blind fasteners remain tight up to
their minimum mechanical values, creating tight, vibrationresistant
joints that are less susceptible to cracking.
These versatile fasteners can also be used in conjunction
with adhesives to ensure that a joint remains tight until
the adhesives cure while also contributing additional
supportive strength to the joint.
Finally, the installed cost of structural blind fasteners
tends to be lower than that of other joining options,
with savings on time, labor, and complicated inspection
processes resulting in overall savings and higher output.
Moving Forward
The automotive industry is under continued pressure
to do more with less: less weight, less cost, and less
time. The growing usage of aluminum and other exotic
materials presents unique challenges in joint design.
Understanding how different joining technologies function
from the perspective of weight, cost, productivity, and
reliability is crucial. While adhesives and welding are often
the joining technologies of choice when trying to address
weight concerns, structural blind fasteners should also be
given strong consideration.
Structural blind fasteners may add minimal weight to
the system when compared to adhesives or welds, but
despite this, structural blind fasteners offer a viable, if
not superior, alternative to other technologies. Structural
blind fasteners create strong, tight joints between various
materials, and the wide selection of fastener options
offers unique characteristics and performance, allowing
joint designers to zero in on the solution that works
best for each application. Easy installation procedures
make it easier to secure and train operators, while quick
visual inspection guidelines help ensure that each joint is
fastened properly, every time..
HOWMET FASTENING SYSTEMS

164
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
LAURENCE CLAUS CAN SOMEONE SLOW THIS ROLLER COASTER DOWN? from page 118
Additionally, we see continued cost pressure on
items like food, gasoline, energy, and construction
materials. It is impossible to predict at the moment, but
once instituted, how many of these items will remain
inflated? Additionally, how much additional energy and
resources will be required by fastener companies to
address and pass along their rising costs to their
customers?
COVID Vaccine Mandates
A final and very ominous looming challenge will be
how fastener companies will react to upcoming vaccine
mandates. Recent presidential edicts, should they
withstand legal challenges, will make it necessary for
most private sector companies with over 100 employees
and government contractors to have a fully vaccinated
workforce. Although there may be some provisions for
exclusions, these are expected to be fairly limited. How
will companies address compliance to whatever the new
rules effectively become when a significant segment
of their workforce, in some cases, perhaps as high as
40% remain unvaccinated? Companies, many already
struggling under the weight of the pandemic, simply
cannot remain solvent if confronted with having to
furlough or terminate 20%-30% of their workforce or face
costly enforcement actions or penalties.
Summary
If only one of these forces was in-play, companies
would likely feel some mild stress but quickly figure out
successful ways to work around them. However, the
combination of all these forces simultaneously raises
the question of whether we are facing a “Perfect Storm.”
Regardless whether you are impacted by all of these
things or not, the industry is inarguably experiencing
one of its most challenging seasons in recent history.
Business leaders and managers will have to stay
on-top of all of these things, recognize how many are
interrelated, and be prepared to decisively act to keep
their businesses healthy and making progress.
LAURENCE CLAUS
Frontenac announced that it has acquired EFC
International (“EFC” or the “Company”), a valueadded
distributor of highly engineered fasteners.
The financial terms of the transaction were not
disclosed.
EFC operates globally and provides solutions
such as engineering support, sales and marketing,
distribution, and high-touch service to customers in
the automotive, industrial, and other technical end
markets. The Company has served as a critical link
between suppliers and customers for over 35 years.
EFC has a history of growth driven by longstanding
supplier relationships and a tenured customer base.
CEO, Matt Dudenhoeffer, along with the current
executive team, will continue in their roles leading
the Company.
“We have enjoyed strong growth over the past
several years as we executed on a number of key
initiatives that have expanded our global reach as
well as our customer and supplier base,” said Matt
Dudenhoeffer. “With Frontenac as our new partner,
we are excited to leverage their industrial distribution
expertise to continue our expansion plans, both
organic and inorganic, and continue to increase
market share both domestically and abroad.”
Ron Kuehl, Managing Director at Frontenac,
commented, “We identify and invest in industry
leaders that are growing in excess of the market and
provide first rate service to customers and suppliers
alike. EFC has grown impressively and perfectly fits
our target profile. We look forward to deploying our
playbooks, working with the team to accelerate the
pace of progress, and having another successful
industrial distribution investment for Frontenac.”
Neal Sahney, Principal at Frontenac, added, “EFC
has performed exceptionally well over decades and
generated record results this year. The team has
proven to be adept at both investing in the business
for the long-term and growing earnings. The future
is bright for EFC, and we are looking forward to
collaborating with the team in support of their
strategic plan.”
For more information contact EFC International by
Tel: 314-434-2888 or online at www.efc-intl.com.

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 165
MID-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION
PO Box 5, Lake Zurich, IL 60047 TOLL-FREE 1-800-753-8338 TEL 847-438-8338 EMAIL mwfa@ameritech.com WEB www.mwfa.net
2022 BOARD OF DIRECTORS & EVENTS SCHEDULE by Nancy Rich
2022 Board of Directors
President
Vice President Jake Davis
BTM
Treasurer
Secretary
George Hunt
Brighton-Best International
Bob Baer
Abbott Interfast Inc.
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
Bobby Wegner
Beacon Fasteners and Components
Directors
Glen Brin - Innovative Components Inc.
Pam Cicero - Elgin Fastener Group
Matt Delawder - SWD Inc.
David Gawlik - telfast
Jill Lewis - Integrated Packaging
Alternates
Rich Cavoto - Metric & Multistandard Components
Tabitha Herbst - Burlington Graphics
Jen Kushnir - DLP Coatings
Steve Urhausen - All American Systems
Wayne Wishnew - XL Screw Corporation
2022 Event Schedule
February 17 Economic Update
August 22-26 MWFA FSTNR Week
August 23 40th Annual MWFA Fastener Show
August 24 69th Annual Golf Outing
August 25 MWFA Mixer
August 22-26 Fastener Training Week
November 3 Scholarship Awards & Elections
December 8 Holiday Party
Check www.mwfa.net for more dates and details.
MID-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION

166
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
NELSON VALDERRAMA 5 WAYS TO THRIVE IN A SHIFTING INDUSTRY WITH CONSOLIDATING DISTRIBUTORS from page 122
So what do these mean? Core accounts (a segment that
typically represent 30-50% of your total GM$) are those
ones that if you lose any of them you will not be able to
sleep , they tend to be the stickiest and you and your team
will do almost anything to keep them really happy.
VIP accounts are just shy of being Core accounts, so
you want to really focus on nurturing them to find out what
is the most important add value you are providing that will
make them to stick with you ---a journey that might take
months.
Standard accounts are your come-and-go customers
but provide a nice GM$ at lower cost to serve. And the
Drain accounts are actually losing you GM$, meaning it’s
time to review the cost to serve them.
To understand better how to segment these 2 last
buckets of customers you need to use some metrics
associated with customer acquisition, repeat purchases,
tickets size and the cost to serve them becomes critical.
Distributors should target buyers who will not just make
one-time purchases but order regularly.
Tip #5 - Size Matters, Use It To Your Advantage
Being a smaller distributor comes with certain
advantages that are unique to this industry. For example,
such businesses might have the flexibility of adding
products into their repertoire when demand suddenly
increases for something specific like face masks and
hand sanitizer during pandemic periods of time.
Smaller businesses are better positioned to solve
the issue of availability because they have fewer costs
and constraints. Large companies often sacrifice speed
in order maintain stability, which might translate into
an inability for them respond quickly enough when new
opportunities arise or threats materialize without warning.
A well-structured company needs time before it can
plan its next move; whereas smaller operations generally
do not need as much forethought since everything’s been
thought through beforehand. There are many advantages
to working with a local distributor. They can provide you
the critical tool or item that your company needs in order
for their location, which may be close by on site and have
an experienced sales rep who knows how best to deliver
said products same-day if need arises! Big distributors
might have a hard time pulling that off.
The most successful distributors I’ve seen are those
that have built a culture that rewards agility and getting
things done. They play smart by keeping their eye on the
ball, or in this case; target audience!
Forward Thinkers Play The Game Differently
To Thrive In A Consolidating Industry
Forward Thinkers attract, retain and invest in the
best talent which will help them to find a favorable mix
of profitable customers as well make the investments in
digital capabilities to improve the customer experience .
Forward Thinkers Compete smarter by building
commercial excellence from customer segmentation,
sales force training and dynamically tailored pricing to
accelerating organic growth and expanding margins
The future is not bleak for smaller and midsize
wholesale distributors. Even in the face of rapid
consolidation, there’s no doubt they still have a place on
this market as long as their experimentation continues
with adjustments along the way to find out what that
perfect spot looks like .
Businesses with seven-figure revenues can coexist
and thrive alongside the powerhouses that bring in billions
every year. In many cases, they may serve different
customer bases or address entirely different needs!
Despite the odds, many businesses continue resisting
attractive offers that would change their legacy. They know
it’s important for them to maintain a certain level of
independence and resist any attempts at rebranding in
order not only stay relevant but also better endure years
down the line with an established identity as well.
If you are looking into how these tips can help your
company stand out from competitors, then please feel
free to get in touch.
NELSON VALDERRAMA

INTERNATIONAL FASTENER EXPO
MANDALAY BAY, LAS VEGAS, NV - SEPTEMBER 22-23, 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 171

168
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
BRUNO MARBACHER DRIVING SYSTEMS FOR FASTENERS – EXTERNAL DRIVES from page 150
External Torx Plus
Torx Plus drive furnished with elliptical lobes, it
enables higher torque than regular Torx. This information
is partially based on product literature.
Other critical features do not apply or are not
prominent.
Torxstem ® Double-End Studs
Since most double end studs lack a drive system, it
is necessary to grip the threaded portion of the stud in
order to drive it in, which can result in thread damage.
A special external TORX extruded onto one end of the
TORXSTEM® double end stud simplifies driving.
TORXSTEM studs are installed using a TORX socket
thus reduce thread damage.
Features & Concerns: 0º drive angle, as a result,
the torque is transferred more in a turn direction,
eliminates radial stresses.
¤ Elliptical lobe configuration improves drive bit
engagement.
¤ Large cross-sectional area of lobes, provides 10%
more torsional strength, thus allows for a higher torque.
¤ Torx Plus allows for a Lower head Profile still
enables a high torque transfer.
¤ It requires a Torx Plus socket to assemble thus the
worldwide use is limited.
¤ This drive has a poor off-angle capability.
¤ E-Torx Plus is available with Autosert to facilitate
driver engagement to speed up automated assembly.
¤ This drive is very durable, hence can be reused
serval times.
¤ TORX PLUS® sockets are required for installation
and removal, as TORX® sockets are not compatible with
regular Torx.
12-Spline Flange
The 12-spline flange screw drive has twelve splines
the fastener head and tool. It consists of 12 equally
spaced protrusions, each with a 60° angle. The spline
drive was specified by ASTM B18.2.7.1M, which was
withdrawn in 2011, making the spline drive obsolete.
Its primary use is in high-torque applications, such as
tamper-proof lug nuts, cylinder head bolts, as well as
other engine bolts.
Conclusion
Many of the specialty drives we addressed are very
useful for certain applications but may not be that useful
for others. Before any of these drives are chosen, the
application, installation, should be evaluated. Application
engineers should carry out application testing, try it out
in the intended installation. Based on the results the
most suitable drive ought to be selected.
Some of these special drives are still patented, they
may not be readily available. Many of today’s devices,
appliances are hardly ever serviced so using those
special drives is perfectly all right.
However, for equipment that needs periodic service
and maintenance in the field, one should opt for more
common drives.
BRUNO MARBACHER

FASTENER FAIR USA
CLEVELAND, OH - NOVEMBER 8-10, 2021

170
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
ROBERT FOOTLIK OPTIMIZING VERY NARROW AISLES from page 158
Implementation Isn’t Easy...
Or It Might Be Simpler Than You Think
It all starts with philosophy and planning. The
philosophical basis is defining families in both your
context and your customer’s. While digging into the
data for frequency of demand (“hits”) and quantities
might be sufficient for a most Fastener Distributors,
OEM is usually radically different. Customer purchasing
systems, delivery requirements (corporate, centralized
Distribution center, or shop floor), part interchangeability
(vs. government contract part numbering), engineering
and testing mandates and a host of other factors will
dictate family groups. This can be best facilitated by
communication between the individuals who actually
work with the information. Attempting this level of
cooperation by working thru sales is likely to be an
exercise in futile frustration.
Unless procedures and training are updated, the
overall order processing time will increase dramatically.
Spending money on sophisticated systems that add cost
is not good for the company, or your career.
At this point, VNA may make economic sense, but
the Aaggravation factor@ is starting to dominate the
discussion. Putting in a Very Narrow Aisle system is
not just a matter of shoving the racks together.
Every
aspect must be planned to maximize performance.
Investing in a $100,000 fork lift is only the down
payment. Each additional cost factor contributes to
the savings, or expenses, of the system. One must
also examine the throughput. Will only one vehicle and
system be required, or will additional units need to be
purchased for immediate use? There are computer
simulation programs available for quantizing these
numbers. Most vendors can arrange for a dynamic
test of their equipment. This might be performed in an
installed system in another industry by utilizing a deck
of cards to simulate product picks. With 52 cards,
arranged in four families (spades, hearts, diamonds
and clubs) one can set up storage and pick patterns
that optimize the equipment usage and provides a fair
evaluation of the throughput. This poor man’s system
planning cannot cover every contingency, but will provide
an initial starting point.
The last factor to take into consideration is downtime.
The more complicated the equipment, the greater the
opportunity for mechanical or system failure. When the
complex equipment is out of commission, will everything
come to a halt? A relatively inexpensive Order Picker
type of forklift can do many of the functions of a “Swing
Reach,” with some loss of productivity. This may be an
acceptable way to cover these contingencies, and it must
be factored into the system justification.
Are There Any Other Choices?
When all these elements are considered, VNA
systems are often the best choice for improving space
utilization and productivity. Pay back periods of three to
five years are legitimate criteria, but this may not optimize
your situation. An acceptable alternative is not to trying
to solve all problems with the same solution. Given the
different requirements of picking “hits,” it may be possible
to use a variety of equipment and aisle spacing. Fast
moving, high pick families can be handled at floor level
with wider aisles and a reach type of forklift. The slower
moving affinity items within this family can be located
directly above the “quick picks,” and the slower moving
families, or stand alone items stored in a VNA area.
Mixing and matching the materials handling
equipment to the needs of the operation allows one
to develop optimization techniques and expand these
improvements on a “pay as you go” basis. The savings
generated by each productivity enhancement can be
accrued to prepay the next level on efficiency.
Every Distribution facility has a unique operation.
Even two branches, of the same company, in the same
city, may not have identical needs, and should not utilize
duplicated layouts, equipment or systems. Very Narrow
Aisles have their place in the layout specialist’s “bag of
tricks.” Knowing that sophisticated equipment exists,
and evaluating its potential in your operation requires a
long range perspective.
Devote as much time to planning and improving the
warehouse as marketing does to increasing sales. The
profitability may be greater, and at the very least, the
warehouse can continue to support the promises that
sales generates.
ROBERT FOOTLIK

INTERNATIONAL FASTENER EXPO
MANDALAY BAY, LAS VEGAS, NV - SEPTEMBER 22-23, 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 172

INTERNATIONAL FASTENER EXPO
MANDALAY BAY, LAS VEGAS, NV - SEPTEMBER 22-23, 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 174

INTERNATIONAL FASTENER EXPO
MANDALAY BAY, LAS VEGAS, NV - SEPTEMBER 22-23, 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 175

INTERNATIONAL FASTENER EXPO
MANDALAY BAY, LAS VEGAS, NV - SEPTEMBER 22-23, 2021

INTERNATIONAL FASTENER EXPO - WELCOME RECEPTION
MANDALAY BAY, LAS VEGAS, NV - SEPTEMBER 21, 2021

PAC-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION - HOLIDAY PARTY &
TOYS FOR TOTS COLLECTION - DECEMBER 2, 2021

advertisers index
#
3Q, INC. 117
Washers, nuts, tapping screws, bolts, special
fasteners, single parts, secondary processes,
in-house kitting and packaging, direct import
services, and remote managed inventory.
Tel (630) 405-8492
Email: sales@3Q-Inc.com
A
ACS MANUFACTURING, INC 121
Formed spring steel fasteners
Tel (888) NUTS-R-US
Email: info@acsmanufacturing.com
AIM TESTING LABORATORY 93
AIM Testing Laboratory is an integrated business
partner. AIM’s technical experts support your
staff and understand your processes so they
can provide the correct knowledge and guidance
when and where you need it.
Tel (619) 396-2046
Email: info@aimtestlab.com
AJAX WIRE SPECIALTY CO., INC. 119
For over 80 years, Ajax has been specializing in
the custom design and manufacturing of wire
springs, custom springs and spring assortments.
Tel (855) 966-AJAX (2529)
Email: ajaxwire@aol.com
ALBANY STEEL & BRASS 27
Specialty Tapping Screws - Swageform
Tel (312) 733-1900
Email: sales@albanysteel.com
ALL AMERICAN WASHER WERKS 84
Quality producers of washers and stampings
Tel (847) 566-9091
Email: sales@washerwerks.com
ALLOY & STAINLESS FASTENERS
38, 39, 78, 97, 123
Supplies special metal fasteners in over 150
material grades and over 25 coatings and
platings using over 300 machines with a
10,000 ton inventory with Emergency 24-7
on call service.
Tel (713) 466-3031
Email: info@GoASF.com
ALPHA-GRAINGER MFG. CO. 25
Electronic hardware, captive screws, shoulder
screws, spacers & standoffs
Tel (508) 520-4005
ALUMINUM FASTENER SUPPLY 110, 111
The only exclusive aluminum fastener
supplier of made in the USA products. 6,500
line items in stock with same day shipping.
It’s all we do!
Tel (800) 526-0341
Email: info@alumfast.com
AMERICAN BELLEVILLE 35
Belleville Washers, Belleville Springs, Disc
Springs, Flange Washers, precision-machined
custom components. Stamping, CNC lathe
and mill machining, grinding, heat treating.
Tel (440) 721-8350
Email: lriga@AmericanBelleville.com
AMERICAN IMPERIAL SCREW CORP. 85
Push on hats, push on bolt retainers,
locknuts, self-treading locknuts and washers,
regular washer locknuts, push-on retainer
fasteners and wing nuts, adhesives and
metal anchors.
Tel (800) 431-2391
AMPG
INSIDE BACK COVER
Domestic manufacturer of shoulder screws,
button head sex bolts, flat head sex bolts, prairie
bolts, non-standard flat washers, and machined
specialties from stock. Print to part in 7 days.
Tel (317) 472-9000
Email: sales@ampg.com
B
BAR STOCK SPECIALTIES 51, 115, 123
Metal bar processing; drawing, peeling,
grinding and cutting. Long length stainless
bar to 60ft.
Tel (713) 849-0055
Email: info@GoBarStock.com
BAY SUPPLY FRONT COVER, 3, 16
Fastener & Tooling Super Warehouse. Top
brands at bottom prices. Ships to 200+
countries.
Tel (800) 718-8818
Email: info@baysupply.com
BIG RED FASTENERS 65
Domestic Stud Bolts. USA made and melted.
Your full-service stocking distributor of all
bolts, nuts, studs, washers, machine screws,
tapping and self-drilling screws.
Tel (866) 621-6565
Email: sales@bigredfasteners.com
BRIGHTON-BEST INTERNATIONAL
OUTSIDE BACK COVER
Socket & square head set screws, hex keys,
L-Nine products, Grade 8 hex head, shoulder
bolts, pipe plugs, dowel springs, nuts &
metrics, hand tools and full stainless line.
Tel (800) 275-0050
www.brightonbest.com
BRIKKSEN STAINLESS 139
Full line of stainless-steel inch and metric. Tel
(800) 962-1614
Email: sales@brikksen.com
BRYCE SECURITY FASTENER 119
Manufacturer of the world’s most secure
fasteners. Learn more about KEY-REX® and
their other Made in the USA security fasteners.
Tel (480) 559-8287
Email: info@brycefastener.com
C
CAVALIER INDUSTRIAL SPECIALTIES
61, 79, 123
Acorn, dome, flat and radius cap styles –
small and large diameters. Custom fasteners.
Forging, turning, milling, drilling, slotting,
broaching, grinding, and roll threading.
Emergency 24-7 service.
Tel (713) 983-0055
Email: sales@GoCAV.com
THE CENTER FOR FINANCIAL,
LEGAL & TAX PLANNING, INC. 131
Thinking of buying, selling or transferring your
business? The center is the one-stop shop for
all of your business needs.
Tel (618) 997-3436
Email: rbasi@taxplanning.com
CHICAGO HARDWARE & FIXTURE CO. 87
Mfrs of Wire Rope and Chain Fittings,
Industrial and Marine Hardware and Allied
Products
Tel (847) 455-6609
Email: info@chicagohardware.com
COMPUTER INSIGHTS 19
The Business Edge – The simple solution with
a proven step-by-step method for unlocking
your fastener company’s potential.
Tel (800) 539-1233
Email: sales@ci-inc.com
CRESCENT MANUFACTURING 35
With over 50 years of manufacturing
expertise in the field of miniature screws
and miniature fasteners, Crescent offers
distributors an established source to meet
your Aerospace, Military, Commercial, and
Special Engineered requirements.
Tel (860) 673-2591
Email: sales@crescentmanufacturing.com
D
DARLING BOLT 163
Supplier of US, metric and stainless-steel
fasteners including nuts, bolts, screws,
washers, hardware assortments and
specialty auto body fasteners.
Tel (800) 882-0747
Email: sales@darlingbolt.com
DDI SYSTEM 77
Daily operations, eCommerce, Warehouse
Management, CRM. ERP software for
wholesale distributors.
Tel (877) 599-4334
Email: sales@ddisys.com
DELTA SECONDARY 83
Cut off & chamfer, cut threading, cross drilling,
tapping, turning, milling, slotting, grooving.
Tel (630) 766-1180
Email: delta911@msn.com
DISTRIBUTION ONE 49
ERP Software for Fastener Distributors
capable of running the entire operation,
efficiently & profitably.
Tel (856) 380-0629
Email: info@distone.com
DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 6, 183
Tel (800) 356-1639
Email: tracey@linkmagazine.com
E
ELGIN FASTENER GROUP 53
Selection. Service. Success. Discover the
Elgin Advantage
www.elginfasteners.com

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E
E & T FASTENERS, INC 149
Molded, machined, and stamped plastic
fasteners - uts, bolts, washers - Kynar, Teflon,
PVC, Nylon, and Polypropylene. Low minimums.
Tel (800) 650-4707
Email: eric@fastenercomponents.com
E-Z LOK 57
Thread inserts for metal, wood and plastic
Tel (800) 234-5613
Email: sales@ezlok.com
F
FALL RIVER MFG CO., INC. 23
Manufacturers of Stainless steel & nonferrous
fasteners
Tel (800) 275-6991
Email: sales@fallrivermfg.com
FASCOMP ELECTRONIC HARDWARE 33
Male-female standoffs, female standoffs,
male-male standoffs, spacers, shoulder
screws, captive screws, thumbscrews, swage
standoffs and spacers, handles and ferrules.
Tel (407) 226-2112
Email: sales@fascomp.com
FASTAR, INC. 31
Coiled and Slotted spring pins, dowel pins,
cotter pins, taper pins, grooved & special pins
Tel (845) 369-7990
Email: fastar@optonline.net
FASTENER WEBSITE LINKS 134
FCH SOURCING NETWORK 141
(Tel) 877-332-7836
FORD FASTENERS, INC. 15
410 stainless screws, sheet metal, self-drillers,
thread cutters, self-piercing, EPDM washers.
Tel (800) 272-FORD (3673)
Email: info@fordfasteners.com
G
GF&D SYSTEMS 113
‘One-stop’ for grease fittings and accessories.
Couplers and hose whips, grease fitting
caps, grease guns, custom designed fittings,
assortments, private labeling, custom kitting.
Tel (800) 360-1318
Email: sales@gfdsystems.com
GLOBALFASTENERNEWS.COM 147
GOEBEL FASTENERS, INC. 7
Innovative fastener solutions: blind rivets, selftapping/drilling
screws, toggles, strapping, wing
seals, tools & safety and insulation accessories.
Tel (713) 393-7007
Email: sales@goebelfasteners.com
GRAPHIKA CREATIVE 177
Marketing solutions tailored for the Fastener
Industry. Web, digital, email marketing,
exhibitions, point of sale and corporate
branding. Graphika - your off-site, in-house
comprehensive marketing department.
Tel (224) 489-9533
Email: lee@graphikacreative.com
GREENSLADE & COMPANY, INC. 101
Fastener inspection equipment, innovative
gage design, and dimensional calibration.
Tel (817) 870-8888
Email: sales@greensladeandcompany.com
H
HANGER BOLT & STUD CO 133
USA Hanger bolts, studs, dowel screws, pins.
Tel (800) 537-7925
Email: sales@hangerbolt.com
HANSON RIVET & SUPPLY CO. 117
Rivets, threaded inserts, riveting tools,
riveting machines, washers
Tel (800) 777-4838
I
ICS FLANGE 41
Stocks flange bolts and nuts in Grade 5, 8,
8.8 and 10.9 in steel and stainless in any
finish.
Tel (800) 231-0360
INDUSTRIAL FASTENERS INSTITUTE 71
2021 Edition IFI Book of Fastener Standards
is now available in hard cover and online
format. www.indfast.org/shop
Tel (216) 241-1482
Email: techinfo@indfast.org
INDUSTRIAL RIVET & FASTENER CO. 105
One name, one number, one source for rivets
and RivetKing FreeSet Series.
Tel (800) BUY-RIVET
Email: info@rivet.com
INTEGRATED PACKAGING 107
Parts are electronically counted, heatsealed
in our poly-bags, and labeled with
identification information on every bag, with
accurate optical counting mechanisms and
printers for SKUs.
Tel (847) 439-5730
Email: sales@integratedpack.com
INTERCORP 1
Premium self-drilling, drywall, needle-point,
pole gripper, stainless steel, outdoor,
concrete, cement board, woodworking and
special application.
Tel (800) 762-2004
ISC – INTERCONTINENTAL SALES 77
Fastener and Building Related Products.
Same day shipping, free private labeling, no
minimums
Tel (800) 741-4278
Email: info@isc-sales.com
INTERFAST GROUP 69
Distributor/importer of drywall, deck, selfdrilling
and self-piercing screws.
Tel (800) 605-1233
Email: ifg@interfastgroup.com
INTERNATIONAL FASTENERS, INC. 75
Daggerz quality construction fasteners.
Self-drill, drywall, deck, wood, concrete, clip,
needle point screws, post frame screws,
aluminum industry screws, EDPM bonded
washers, bits & threaded rod.
Tel (888) 241-0203
Email: sales@daggerz.com
INxSQL 91
Full-featured, ERP distribution software designed
and optimized for the Fastener Industry.
Tel (877) 446-9775
Email: sales@inxsql.com
J
JOHAN SMIT FASTENERS 123
Manufacturer and supplier of steel nuts in
the petro-chemical, steel construction and
energy market.
Tel +31(0)786230088
Email: info@johsmit.com
K
KEN FORGING 21
Domestic manufacturer of eyebolts, nut
eyebolts, rod ends, turnbuckles & fittings, eye
nuts, pad eyes, D-rings, c-clamps & screws,
swivel hoist ring. Custom forgings up to 250 lbs.
Tel (888) 536-3674
Email: sales@kenforging.com
KINTER ® 173
X-mas tree clips, binder posts and screws,
binder rings, steel barrel bolts and screws,
wall anchors.
Tel (800) 323-2389
Email: sales@kinter.com
L
LELAND INDUSTRIES INC 145
Manufacturer of bolts, nuts, screws in carbon
or stainless. Custom threading and specials.
U-Bolts and Anchors.
Tel (800) 263-3393
LOK-MOR, INC. 155
American-made locknuts at competitive prices.
Tel (800) 843-7230
Email: sales@lok-mor.com
M
BRUNO MARBACHER 151
With over 40 years of experience in the
fastener industry, and a recently retired
Director of Application Engineering, Bruno
is available to assist and resolve critical and
lingering fastening/assembly/quality issues.
Email: brunomarbacher4@gmail.com
MAR-BRO MANUFACTURING 153
Domestic manufacturer of standards, specials,
MS and NAS fasteners. Specializing in A286,
12 pt flange and hex flange fasteners.
Tel (602) 278-8197
Email: sales@mar-bro.com

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M
MEHTA TRADING INTERNATIONAL 141
The complete MILL stainless fastener source.
Tel (972) 642-1012
Fax (972) 642-1244
METRIC & MULTISTANDARD 13
Providing quality metric industrial products
and exceptional customer service since 1963
Tel (800) 431-2792
MW INDUSTRIES, INC – TEXAS 129
Washers, special fasteners, and metal
stamping for over 45 years. ISO 9001:2015
certified.
Tel (800) 875-3510
Email: sales@mwindustries.com
N
ND INDUSTRIES
INSIDE FRONT COVER, 42, 43
Self-locking and self-sealing fastener
processing, fastener inspection & sorting,
chemical blending, bottling, and A2LA Lab
testing.
Tel (248) 655-2503
Email: info@ndindustries.com
NORTH EAST FASTENERS (NEF) 11
AS9100 certified, supplying IFI, ANSI, MS,
NAS, NASM, AN, DIN, JIS, JCIS high quality
fasteners for commercial, military and
aerospace.
Tel (860) 589-3242
Email: nef@nef1.com
P
PIVOT POINT 37
Pins - clevis, cotter pins, quick release,
locking - wire rope lanyards, stock and
specials and award-winning inventions
Tel (800) 222-2231
Email: mail@pivotpins.com
PRODUCT COMPONENTS CORP. 125
Machined and molded fasteners in many
types of plastics. Woman-owned and
operated; specializing in excellent customer
service, competitive pricing, quick delivery
and small minimums.
Tel (925) 228-8930
Email: sales@product-components.com
R
RAF ELECTRONIC HARDWARE 59
Domestic standoffs, spacers, male-females,
swage, male-male and modified parts. NAS
fasteners.
Tel (203) 888-2133
Email: info@rafhdwe.com
W.J. ROBERTS CO. 101
Spacers and standoffs. Hex and rounds
3/16 to 5/8 diameter. Standoffs in brass,
aluminum, steel and stainless steel.
Tel (781) 233-8176
Email: sales@wjroberts.com
R&R ENGINEERING CO. 95
Bent bolts, wire forms. Quality craftsmanship.
Tel (800) 979-1921
Email: sales@randrengineering.com
S
SETKO FASTENERS 93
Domestic manufactured and imported
socket products. Standards or specials. Mill
shipments and blanket orders. Zinc plated
sockets, nylon patches, drilling, etc. Ready...
Setko!
Tel (630) 800-6377
Email: sales@setkofasteners.com
SHEAR-LOC PRODUCTS 84
The original instant thumbscrews. The
ultimate socket head cap screw accessory.
Over 5000 combinations. Inch and Metric.
Tel (800) 775-5668
Email: sales@shear-loc.com
SOLUTION INDUSTRIES 29
Call Solution Man to help you with nonstandard,
OEM specific fasteners, including
per print specials. Solution-ized service to
meet your customer needs!
Tel (866) 297-8656
Email: sales@solutionind.com
SPIROL 73
Coiled and Slotted Spring Pins, Solid
Pins, Disc Springs, Alignment Dowels and
Bushings, Spacers, Compression Limiters,
Threaded Inserts and Shims.
Tel (800) 321-4679
Email: info@spirol.com
SRC SPECIAL RIVETS CORP. 165
Blind Rivets. Company Rep: Tony DiMaio.
Tel & Fax (978) 521-0277
STAR STAINLESS SCREW CO. 47
Stainless fasteners - Inch, metric, standards,
non-standards, import, domestic.
Tel (630) 595-3440
SUBSCRIPTION FORM 121
SUPERIOR WASHER & GASKET CORP. 2
The single source supplier for all you washer
and gasket needs. Made in the USA.
Tel (631) 273-8282
Email: swg@superiorwasher.com
T
TAMPER-PRUF SCREW, INC. 103
Leader in Security Screws since 1974.
Tel (562) 531-9340
Email: tamperpruf90723@sbcglobal.net
TORTOISE FASTENER CO. 59
Specialty source for slow moving hex heads.
Stainless, brass, silicon bronze, aluminum,
nickel-copper and alloy 20 hex heads.
Tel (800) 691-8894
TUTTLE MANUFACTURING 181
Anchors, bent bolt specials, spade bolts,
acme threaded bars.
Tel (847) 381-7713
Email: tuttlemfg@gmail.com
U
UC COMPONENTS 107
Clean-Critical Fastener and Seal Solutions.
HV, UHV, Cleanroom Ready Fasteners
and seals in just about any size, material
and finish. RediVac® clean-packaged
screws and O-rings. Custom products and
prototypes.
Tel (408) 782-1929
Email: sales@uccomponents.com
UNICORP 69
Manufacturer of electronic hardware,
fasteners and handles since 1971.
Tel (973) 674-1700
Email: sales@unicorpinc.com
V
VIRGINIA FASTENERS 161
Specializing in HDG timber, hex, carriage,
lag bolts, tie rods, nuts and washers.
Tel (800) 368-3430
Email: sales@vafasteners.com
VOLT INDUSTRIAL PLASTICS, INC. 9
US made plastic fasteners, all types &
quantities, custom molding since 1992.
Over 100 million parts in stock with
worldwide shipping.
Tel (800) 844-8024
Email: sales@voltplastics.com
W
WESTERN WIRE PRODUCTS 179
Cotter pins, custom wire forms, spring pins,
d-rings, s-hooks, hitch pin clips, hog rings,
key rings, and lock washers. Made in the
USA.
Tel (800) 325-3770
Email: sales@westernwireprod.com
WILLIE WASHER MFG. 157
Domestic manufacturer of fender, spring,
tab and flat washers,
Tel (847) 956-1344
Email: sales@williewasher.com
X
XL SCREW CORPORATION 45
Importer of standard fasteners - hex
cap screws, bolts, nuts, locknuts, thread
forming screws, sheet metal screws, selfdrilling
screws, machine screws, washers
and anchors, metrics and mill shipments.
Over 14,000 imported products in stock.
America’s finest quality imported threaded
fasteners since 1968.
Tel (800) 323-7367
Email: xlw@xlscrew.com