SPRING 2022

in the Spring 2022 issue of
6 DISTRIBUTOR NEWS
8 HOT FORGING FASTENERS
Laurence Claus
10 FASTENER SCIENCE: HOW TIGHT IS RIGHT TIGHT?
Rob LaPointe
12 2022 TRANSPORTATION AND SUPPLY CHAIN OUTLOOK
Chris Donnell
14 AI PERSONALIZED NEWSLETTERS: HOW FASTENER
DISTRIBUTORS CAN DEEPEN CUSTOMER LOYALTY
Joe Dysart
16 [COVER FEATURE] WJ ROBERTS - QUALITY & EXCELLENCE
FOR HALF A CENTURY
24 FCH SOURCING NETWORK: OPTIMIZE YOUR FCH LISTINGS
Eric Dudas
26 SEE YOU IN DETROIT! JOIN FASTENER FAIR USA –
MAY 17-19, 2022
28 GAGING SYSTEMS PART 2: SYSTEM 22
Larry Borowski
30 DRIVING SYSTEMS FOR FASTENERS – TAMPERPROOF DRIVES
Bruno Marbacher
32 THE POWER OF ASSOCIATIONS AND EDUCATION TO
CONNECT THE SKILLS AND LABOR GAP
Jo Morris and Dan Walker
34 INXSQL ANNOUNCES SMARTCERT® INTEGRATION TO
AUTOMATE INBOUND & OUTBOUND CERT TRANSFER
36 TRUST BUT VERIFY
Robert Footlik
38 BRIKKSEN…. ‘BEYOND THE OFFICE’
Stan Lockhart
40 BIG TECH AND THE PURCHASING PROCESS
Jim Truesdell
44 CERTIFICATE MANAGEMENT: STOP MISTAKES & SAVE TIME
Dennis Cowhey
45 UNICORP OFFERS CUSTOM PARTS AND SERVICES
46 THE BENEFITS OF EVENTS: WHY TRADE SHOWS
ARE CRITICAL TO CONNECTION
London Penland
48 WHAT FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS NEED TO KNOW:
FASTENER FACTS AND ANSWERS
Guy Avellon
50 CRESCENT MANUFACTURING
LAUNCHES NEW ON-LINE
MARKETPLACE
50 NEFDA SCHOLARSHIP GOLF
OUTING SET FOR JUNE 2, 2022
Nancy Rich
52 STAINLESS STEEL SHORTAGE:
NO CHANGE UNTIL MORE PRODUCTION
John Wolz
54 HOW TO DETERMINE THE PROPER DISC SPING
STACK CONFIGURATION
John Leckfor
56 MWFA ANNOUNCES NEW VENUE FOR 2022 FSTNR WEEK
Nancy Rich
58 NEED A SUPPLEMENT FOR YOUR LEADERSHIP
TEAMWORK CURRICULUM?
Joe Sasso
60 MAYBE IT’S NOT THE MILLENNIALS, MAYBE IT’S YOUR COMPANY
Nelson Valderrama
62 FASTENER TRAINING INSTITUTE’S JO MORRIS NAMED
WIFI 2021 WOMEN IN BUSINESS
64 VOLT INDUSTRIAL PLASTICS BREAKS GROUND FOR
NEW EXPANSION
66 MACLEAN-FOGG: INTRODUCING THREADSTRONG ® - A NEW
LINE OF MADE-IN-USA AFTERMARKET WHEEL FASTENERS
68 AMERICAN BELLEVILLE: NOT ALL BELLEVILLE WASHERS
OR DISC SPRINGS ARE THE SAME
70 SECTION 1202 STOCK: HOW TO EXCLUDE UP TO $10
MILLION ON THE SALE OF YOUR BUSINESS – PART 2
Roman Basi
72 WHO HAS MADE A SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO
THE FASTENER INDUSTRY?
Vickie Lester
74 WHAT JUSTIFIES THE USE OF BLIND RIVETS?
Anthony Di Maio
75 INTERNATIONAL FASTENERS: PUTTING MEMBERS FIRST
76 IFI SOARING EAGLE AWARDS 2022
Salim Brahimi
78 BEAR GRYLLS TO KEYNOTE STAFDA’S SAN DIEGO MEETING
Georgia H. Foley, CEO

volume 45 // issue #2
79 3Q: PREMIER FASTENER SOURCING – BUY BETTER
USING THE RMI PROGRAM
80 FASTENER PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD
Mike McGuire
80 BRIGHTON-BEST NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
82 QUALITY FASTENERS: THE ‘HARD-TO-FIND ITEM’ SPECIALISTS
Dennis Cowhey
84 FASCOMP CELEBRATES 20 YEARS… PLUS!
Stan Lockhart
88 ESPS SALES PLANNING SESSIONS ® RETURN JUNE 21-23
IN MINNEAPOLIS
Amy Niijar
89 SUBSCRIBE TO LINK
90 U.S. ANCHOR: STRONG CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
THROUGH TESTING, APPROVALS & COMMITMENT
Jim Hahn
94 SANTA HELPS MWFA CELEBRATE HOLIDAYS
Nancy Rich
95 MWFA HOLIDAY PARTY PHOTOS
112 SFA: JOIN US FOR THE 2022 SPRING CONFERENCE APRIL 25-27
Nancy Rich
118 FIRST CLASS OF FASTENER LEGENDS ANNOUNCED
Mike McGuire
147 SAVE THE DATE! MFDA 25TH ANNUAL GOLF OUTING –
SEPTEMBER 10-11, 2022
Rob Rundle
156 THE MAFDA HOLIDAY & SCHOLARSHIP PARTY
Bill Bankoske
157 MAFDA HOLIDAY PARTY PHOTOS
170 NCFA HOLDS ANNUAL HOLIDAY BASH
Mike Robinson
171 NCFA 40TH ANNIVERSARY PHOTOS OVER THE YEARS
178 PAC-WEST AFTER HOURS PHOTOS – SAN DIEGO
179 PAC-WEST AFTER HOURS NETWORKING EVENTS
Amy Niijar
185 NCFA CELEBRATES 40TH ANNIVERSARY
Dave Audia
191 ADVERTISE IN OUR NEXT ISSUE!

6 THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
ND Industries is pleased to announce that
Luis Gonzales has been hired as General Manager
of its Arlington, TX facility. He is taking over
the position from Dan Conner, who recently
announced his retirement. Dan has
worked at ND Industries since 1988
and played an integral role in making
ND one of the current leaders in the
fastener locking and sealing industry.
ND Industries wishes Dan all the
best while he enjoys a well-deserved
retirement.
As General Manager of the
Southwestern Fastener Processing
Division, Luis will be overseeing
all production in this facility with a
strong focus on lean manufacturing. Luis will draw
on his extensive production line process expertise,
logistics background, and fastener coating
experience to drive continuous improvements. Luis
is planning to overhaul the production equipment
to increase reliability and output.
ND Industries President Mike Garofalo
welcomes the improvements that Luis Gonzales
will be implementing. “We’re always looking for
ways to increase operational efficiencies. Luis
brings with him a vast amount of
experience streamlining production
processes.”
Luis’ previous work includes
an eight-year role as production
manager for LATICRETE International,
where he introduced lean practices
to seven of their manufacturing
facilities, increasing production by
an average of 16%. He was also
a production/maintenance manager
at a Dura-Tech composite coating
processing plant, where his production equipment
improvements led to a significant increase in
production.
For more information contact ND Industries by
Tel: 248-288-0000, Email: info@ndindustries.com
or online at www.ndindustries.com.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
North East Fasteners Corporation are
pleased to announce the appointment of Martin
Van Linter as company President.
On August 10th, 1992, answering a newspaper
ad, a 23-year-old machinist walked into his
interview wearing shorts and a
t-shirt.
Starting as a machinist in
the industry at age sixteen, over
time, he had become a capable
craftsman able to run every
machine (nearly one-hundred in
all) on the factory floor. As he
transitioned into management
and then into upper management, Mr. Van
Linter became proficient in managing NEF’s
administrative needs. He has for some time now
displayed all of the exceptional qualities you
could ever want in a president, and he has more
than proved himself to be the right person for
the job.
On January 1st, 2022, nearly thirty years later,
that same individual became NEF’s President.
Mr. Van Linter embodies the American Dream,
proving once again that hard work, dedication, and
a genuine passion for what you do, can get you
into places you may have never
dreamed possible.
NEF is now AS9100/
ISO 9001:2015 certified with
a 100% standing for 8 years
running. It is also an QSLM
Levels 2/3 certified supplier,
serving the commercial, military,
aerospace and automotive
markets. NEF is currently producing a size range of
-00- to number 10 diameter fasteners in all types
and classes, as well as M1.2 to M4.5 (metric), up
to 2 inches (50mm) long.
For more information contact North East
Fasteners by Tel: 860-589-3242, Email: nef@nef1.
com or online at www.nef1.com.

8
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.
HOT FORGING FASTENERS
My first job in manufacturing was in a General Motors
sheet metal stamping plant. We made quarter panels,
fenders, doors, roofs, and many smaller components that
are married with others to build an automobile’s body.
The scale of this plant was huge and everything appeared
to be on steroids. The stamping presses could stand
over five stories tall and handle a die the size of a VW
Beetle but many times heavier. It was exciting every time
I stepped onto the plant floor and instilled in me a lifelong
appreciation, curiosity, and respect for the way things are
made.
Fast forward a couple of year and I recall my first time
observing how average size screws and bolts were made.
Honestly I was in awe at the speed and ingenuity of cold
heading and thread rolling, and, although I would spend
nearly every work day of the next twenty-six years in close
proximity to these same headers and rollers, I have never
lost my appreciation for the process. In those early years,
though, I often wondered what process is used to make
really large fasteners or fasteners from difficult to form
metals.
My question would eventually be answered when I
received an invitation from a fellow Industrial Fasteners
Institute member to come and visit their hot forming
facility. Once again, my eyes were opened to a new and
different way of making fasteners. If you have never had
the opportunity to see this process firsthand my hope is
that this article will serve as a journey into the basics of
hot forming fasteners. This article will explore basics of
the process, explain when it makes sense, and several
different approaches commonly used to hot form parts.
TECHNICAL ARTICLE
FIGURE 1: HEATED RAW MATERIAL ENTERING A HIGH SPEED
HOT FORGING MACHINE
What Is Hot Forming?
One doesn’t have to be in the industry long before
encountering terms like cold forming, warm forming,
and hot forming. It is clearly understood that these are
uniquely different processes, but what is the difference?
Obviously the answer to this question is the temperature.
It is universally understood that adding heat to metals
makes them easier to work. Therefore, if you have to
form a shape that is any more complex than a cylinder
or rectangle, adding heat probably makes the job easier.
Of course adding heat also complicates things. It makes
parts harder to handle, adds safety concerns and risks,
complicates processing equipment, and, if not carefully
controlled can change the physical composition of a part.
This list of concerns causes manufacturers to walk a fine
line and not complicate their processes by adding heat
unless it is deemed necessary.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 96

10
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
FASTENER SCIENCE:
HOW TIGHT IS RIGHT TIGHT?
If you’ve spent a large amount of time while growing
up, or as an adult, wrenching on things like engines,
automobiles, motorcycles, equipment, or other various
mechanical devices, you’ve come to know a bit about
how tight is right-tight. For fasteners from 6-32 up to
about 3/4-10, I have an internal torque-sense that
keeps me in the sweet spot of fastener tightness most
of the time.
I’ve gained this torque-sense through wrenching many
fasteners to the point of “Uh-oh…. I turned this one too
far.” By either taking the bolt or screw into yield (a point
where the fastener stretches and deforms permanently)
or all the way to ultimate tensile failure (the point
where the fastener breaks into two pieces), you get a
good sense of how tight a fastener should be, or more
particularly, how much torque (rotational force) should be
applied to the fastener to get to a tension (elastic force
caused by stretching) between 50 – 80 % of its ultimate
tensile value. Bear in mind that I’m not often measuring
to confirm this tension for applications where a specified
torque value is not required, but that it’s a feel that has
been calibrated by many failures and occasionally by
comparing to actual data acquired through measuring
torque-tension relationships in the laboratory.
Acquiring this internal sense of right-tightness can
also lead to other helpful “by feel” sensations. One can
gain a sense of the performance of a particular metal or
of a hardened material’s characteristics as it progresses
from yield to ultimate tensile. For example, stainless
TECHNICAL ARTICLE
FIGURE 1. TIGHTENING A BOLT IS OFTEN A MATTER OF “FEEL.”
steel has a great deal of stretch (yield) before it ultimately
breaks, and high hardness alloy steels have only a small
amount of stretch between yield and breaking. For me,
this experience has been calibrated by seeing hundreds
of tensile tests with a variety of metals in the laboratory.
It’s amazing to see the stress-strain curve of a tensile test
and gain a sense of comparison to what you feel when
you tighten a nut and bolt made form that material. It is
being sensitive to a very real feeling and comparing that
to knowledge about how metals behave under stress that
enables right-tight by feel.
For most installations, where the correct tension
is critical to the application or installations where
“tension by torque feel” is neither acceptable nor
legitimate, we need another more quantitative method
for relating torque to tension. Typically, the correct
tension for fasteners is somewhere between 50-80% of
the fastener’s ultimate tensile strength.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 98

12
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.
2022 TRANSPORTATION AND
SUPPLY CHAIN OUTLOOK
Is it just me, or does the transportation world resemble
the Bill Murray movie, “Groundhog Day” – the same
struggles over and over again, day in and day out? Just when
we thought there would be some sort of let up, something
comes around the bend and throws us back into the fray.
For most people I’ve spoken to, they all reiterated
how glad they are knowing that 2021 is over, kaput, in the
rear-view mirror. There was no supply chain on planet earth
that was not negatively affected by Covid and the resultant
turmoil it unleashed on the transportation world in 2021.
From extended lead times, to extensive transportation
bottlenecks; from inflated transportation costs and asinine
surcharges to political unjust, all that have left an indelible
mark on the global transportation world.
Now the question, are we really looking forward to
2022 and what it will bring? Do any of you think it’s going
to get any better? Well, let me highlight some things we all
need to keep an eye on, things that will have a dramatic
impact on the transportation market as a whole.
US And China Trade Tensions
Without going into who’s at fault or responsible,
make no mistake about it, this will certainly have a major
impact on the global supply chain and the economy of both
countries, here are a few issues surrounding this topic.
[a] Renewal of the Trump Tariffs
[b] China’s reluctancy to fulfill their agricultural
agreement to purchase 200 billion dollars’ worth of product
from the US in the years 2019 and 2020. As of February
18th they still are not working towards an amicable
solution.
[c] Territorial rights of Taiwan and Japan and the
alliances between the US and those countries.
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
[d] US Customs paying more attention to forced
labor and buying from manufacturers who use this type of
business practice. This focus kicked off in late 2021 and
is becoming more and more of an issue, especially for the
garment and textile industries (WRO).
Covid Continues To Wreak Havoc On The
Labor Force Globally
Just look at the almost intolerable conditions the
athletes in the Winter Games are going through. Many
countries such as Vietnam, Thailand and others are just
coming back and there are rumors that Europe is seeing a
massive spike in covid related cases and deaths. Look for
Covid to continue hindering the transportation world - if not
directly then indirectly.
We recently received word out of Vietnam that they
are shutting down again and people are being forced back
into their homes and back to the virtual workforce. We are
also seeing portions of Ningbo and other cities go into
quarantine recently. It is not any better throughout Europe.
Russia And The Ukraine
This dilemma currently unfolding is Europe is something
to keep and eye out for. The Russians have been amassing
a large troop and equipment concentration at the border of
the Ukraine, this is rattling the NATO powers. Today we’re
already feeling some of the impacts this stalemate has
caused such as fuel and oil prices are on the rise. Oil has
shot up to about $100 dollars a barrel and the impact we
are seeing is everywhere petroleum and oil is used such as
in plastics, gasoline prices increasing and others. Should
an invasion take place the economic impact would be felt
globally.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 100

14
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
AI PERSONALIZED NEWSLETTERS: HOW FASTENER
DISTRIBUTORS CAN DEEPEN CUSTOMER LOYALTY
Fastener distributors looking to auto-generate
marketing newsletters that feel much more personal to
customers are reaching out to artificial intelligence for help.
Turns out, AI is great at continuously analyzing what
readers are clicking on in the newsletters they receive from
your fastener distributorship -- and then customizing the
future content they receive
based on those behaviors.
Over time, that continuous
analysis and readjustment of
content results in an evermore
personalized marketing
newsletter for each customer
-- and generally, more sales
from each customer.
In fact, 61% of
customers who are treated
to personalized marketing
content from businesses say
they are likely to buy from
that business as a result
of that personalization,
according to a study by
Movable Ink (www.aithority.
com/technology/martech/
movable-ink-launches-firstannual-survey-on-the-power-of-personalization-amid-anevolving-marketing-landscape).
And 80% of Generation Z and Millenials say they are
happy to allow publishers to track their digital behavior in
exchange for a more personalized marketing experience,
according to a study (www.prnewswire.com/newsreleases/over-23-of-gen-z--millennials-say-personalized-
BUSINESSES ARE HYPER-PERSONALIZING MARKETING
NEWSLETTERS TO THEIR CUSTOMERS WITH AI
80% OF GENERATION Z AND MILLENIALS SAY THEY ARE
HAPPY TO ALLOW PUBLISHERS TO TRACK THEIR DIGITAL
BEHAVIOR IN EXCHANGE FOR A MORE PERSONALIZED
MARKETING EXPERIENCE
content-is-a-must-for-subscribing-to-publishers-email-
newsletters-301298613) from Jeeng, an auto-personalized
newsletter and digital marketing service.
In a phrase, AI personalized email “uniquely provides
a powerful way for publishers to build that coveted one-toone
relationship,” with customers -- especially with young
subscribers, according to
Jeff Kupietzky, CEO of Jeeng
(www.jeeng.com), an autopersonalized
newsletter and
digital marketing service.
Besides personalizing
marketing newsletters by
watching behaviors, fastener
distributors can also use AI
to study and react to a wide
variety of personal data-points
they track about each of their
customers. Those include:
¤ Basic demographics like
age, sex, home location, work
location, political party and
similar
¤ The time of day a
reader is most likely to interact
with your AI-personalized
marketing letter
¤ The type of device a reader is most likely to use
when reading your AI-personalized marketing
¤ The history of the reader’s purchases with your
business
¤ The average dollar value of the reader’s purchases
with your business.
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
CONTINUED ON PAGE 102

24
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
FCH SOURCING NETWORK
Sourcing Network for the Fastener Industry
TEL 1-877-332-7836 EMAIL eric@fastenersclearinghouse.com WEB www.fastenersclearinghouse.com
OPTIMIZE YOUR FCH LISTINGS by Eric Dudas
The most common question we hear at fastener
industry events is, “How’s business?”
“When fastener distributors do well, we do well!” That’s
my standard answer, because FCH Sourcing Network
(www.fastenersclearinghouse.com) has been helping
distributors show their parts to online buyers for over
15 years and our business directly reflects the wider
industry.
With supply chain problems and shortages of even
the most common fasteners a fact of life these days,
FCH has never seen more traffic. Buyers from across
the industry have taken to the web in search of parts as
their stocks grow thin. Sales are up, so we’re doing well.
The second frequent question we receive is, “What
are your top tips for listing inventory with FCH?”
Consulting with lifetime honorary Texan and
database guru, Brian Musker, I came up with this punch
list of ways to maximize your effectiveness:
Reload Often
Fresh inventory listings keep quantities accurate,
and a more recent upload time stamp date can win out
for clicks over older listings that appear stale. Also, our
search algorithms give a slight edge to newer listings, so
they tend to come up higher on the search results page,
which can mean more sales inquiries.
Each FCH member is responsible for keeping their
own listings up to date, and we’ve made this a very fast
and simple upload process that’s a lot like adding an
“You have exactly zero chance
of selling the inventory you
have on the shelf if nobody
knows you have it.”
attachment to an email. Users of INxSQL, Business
Edge and Distribution One software have the extra
advantage of being able to upload directly from their ERP
desktop.
Go Big
You should list as much inventory with FCH as you
can. More listings translates to more clicks. Too often,
people say they will start with a small handful of slow
movers, hoping to make some fast sales which can
sometimes take a while to happen. They sometimes
leave, disappointed with very few clicks. It’s much better
to go big and get lots of inquiries from the start, by listing
parts that make you margin and where you want to grow
your business.
Some slow movers will never move, but you have
exactly zero chance of ever selling them if nobody knows
they are on your shelf! So I suggest people use what
I call the “two bucket method”. Start with a list of
your dead stock, then add a list of money makers. It’s
the most successful strategy we’ve seen used on the
network, and it’s used by some of our oldest and most
successful members.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 104

26
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
SEE YOU IN DETROIT!
JOIN FASTENER FAIR USA - MAY 17-19, 2022
Fastener Fair USA joins the industry this May
for the 2022 edition of the fastest growing industry
event. See what’s in store.
May 17
¤ Conference: Fastening 101
Presented by Fastener Training Institute
May 18 & 19
¤ Exhibit Hall
The only exhibition in the United States dedicated to
the full supply chain—distributors, mechanical and design
engineers, purchasers, wholesalers and OEMs.
After the great success of the 2021 event in
Cleveland this past November—the first for the USA show
in 2 years—Fastener Fair USA continues its momentum
onward to Detroit, May 17 – 19, 2022 at Huntington Place
(Formerly known as Cobo Center/TCF Center).
Fastener Fair USA will once again unite a curated
show floor with leading education sessions, suppliers,
and plenty of networking opportunities.
SHOW EVENT ARTICLE
2022 Show Preview
¤ Leading Suppliers including easily connect and
follow up after Fastener Fair USA with top quality lead
generation. The 2022 Exhibitor List is growing! Key
exhibitors to note include CLUFIX North America, Buckeye
Fasteners, Goebel, Avk, Magni, Doerken, Alloy & Stainless
Fasteners, Infasco, The DECC Copmany, Wurth, and more.
You can view the full exhibitor list at FastenerFairUSA.com
¤ Conference & Content will continue to help work
to build business and provide key insights from leading
experts. The Pre-Show Conference Day on May 17 will
feature an all-day training course before the opens on
May 18 & 19. Fastener 101 presented by Fastener
Training Institute will give attendees access to a full day
of the basics of fasteners, market growth, engineering,
product design fundamentals, and more. Register and
purchase your package at the early bird rate of $399!
Price increases on May 3.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 106

28
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 2:
SYSTEM 22
Last issue, we covered System 21 Gaging Systems,
and this time we are going to go a little deeper and cover
System 22 requirements. I just wanted to recap on the
definition of a gaging system according to the standards.
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.
According to ASME B1.3 – 2007, section 4(2): System
22 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 the minimum material size
pitch diameter or thread groove diameter over the length
of the full thread. The cumulative effects of all other
thread characteristics such as lead, flank angle, taper,
and roundness variations are confined within product
tolerance limits with no specific inspection/evaluation
of their magnitudes. The easy way to remember this is
that System 22 involves variable gaging, or in other terms
involves obtaining an actual number.
The most common products that require system 22
measurements are Socket Head Cap Screws defined
in ASME B18.3, and Aerospace threads defined in SAE
AS8879. A quick outline of what is required for external
and internal threads are:
TECHNICAL ARTICLE
External Threads:
¤ Pitch Diameter
¤ Functional Diameter
¤ Major Diameter
¤ Minor Diameter (UNJ only)
¤ Root Radius (UNJ only)
Internal Threads:
¤ Pitch Diameter
¤ Functional Diameter
¤ Minor Diameter
External Threads, ASME B1.3 – 2007 Table 3
In this table you will find that System 22 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 incorporating individual
elements such as flank angle, lead, taper, etc. Go Maximum
material is one of the features in system 22 inspection/
evaluation that can be done using a fixed limit gage.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 108

30
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Bruno Marbacher
Dear Reader - Tamper proof screws are meant to
be difficult or impossible to remove. They are intended
to prevent unauthorized removal or tampering. In this
article, we cover the usual types and how they work.
We do not advertise ways to tamper or remove tamper
resistant screws.
The use of tamper proof screws has increased in
recent years to prevent theft, interference, and block
access to the working parts of cell phones and other
electronic gadgets.
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 –
TAMPERPROOF DRIVES
What Are Security Screws And
Fasteners Used For?
Security screws and tamperproof fastenings deliver
practical, low-cost protection for a wide range of items
from safety railings to park benches and access hatches
…and much more. They provide a simple way to deter
thieves and vandals.
When selecting a tamper proof screw there are
several factors to consider such as:
¤ The level of security required
¤ Does the screw need to be removed at any time?
¤ Is a high tightening torque required?
¤ Is the aesthetic appearance important?
¤ Is It merely to discourage a prank or vandalism?
¤ Does it need to protect high critical, sensitive or
high voltage equipment
Standard tamper proof screws are just that – they
are highly resistant to tampering but a really determined
person may be able to remove them. As mentioned
above, we do not publish ways to tamper or remove
TECHNICAL ARTICLE
tamper resistant screws, we merely address ways as to
how to make tampering even more challenging. A heattreated
screw or screws with an inserted heat-treated
pin is extremely difficult to remove. If that screw is
recessed (the deeper, the better), the head cannot be
“manipulated”, so the security is even more enhanced.
The term manipulating refers to processes such as
filing, sawing, drilling, milling etc., The shape of the
head is also critical, cylindrical heads may be loosened
with plyers if enough force can be applied. Truss head,
button heads make it much more complicated, if that
type of head is recessed tampering becomes extremely
difficult. Including a serration underneath the head or
applying a nylon locking batch increases the difficulty of
an unauthorized removing.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 110

32
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Jo Morris Marketing Director
FASTENER TRAINING INSTITUTE ® CONTINUED ON PAGE 114
Dan Walker Managing Director
INDUSTRIAL FASTENERS INSTITUTE ®
THE POWER OF ASSOCIATIONS AND EDUCATION
TO CONNECT THE SKILLS AND LABOR GAP
A Workforce Under Transformation
We’ve all experienced it. Workers have been leaving
the workforce in record numbers. At the end of 2021,
our economy was left with nearly 11 million unfilled
positions, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Access to skilled and educated workers is critical to the
success and competitiveness of companies. This chasm
between positions needing to be filled and access to
skilled labor, along with supply chain shifts due to COVID,
left manufacturers seeking new ways to ensure business
continuity.
Manufacturers that had slowly been embracing digital
transformation were accelerating the implementation of AI
technology, improved automation and analytics ushering
in the era of “manufacturing 4.0” In fact, 95 percent
of companies responding to the FICTIV 2021 State of
Manufacturing Report indicated that digital transformation
has become essential to their company’s future success.
These companies have been quick to point out,
however, that this digital transformation has not been
undertaken to replace the workforce. The technologies
and intelligence brought about via manufacturing 4.0 are
intended to augment the capability of an improved, skilled
workforce.
But this embrace of digital transformation is
not undertaken to replace the workforce, this digital
transformation is intended to augment the capability
of an improved, upskilled workforce that will increase
competitiveness and optimize productivity. To fully
leverage these increased capabilities through digital
transformation, manufacturers are examining ways to fill
the need for skilled labor.
Manufacturers are actively looking at ways to
upskill, cross-train and educate a workforce needed to
advance and leverage the new capabilities. The reality
is that individual companies simply cannot shoulder
workforce development for an entire industry on their own.
Workforce development is an industry-wide issue, but not
something that can be solved for all of manufacturing.
Workforce development must be approached with a deep
understanding of industry issues and technology, while
broad enough to be impactful across the broad array of
differentiated companies.
Enter Trade Associations
Trade associations are knowledge centers for entire
industries, dealing with broad, industry-wide issues, like
trade, infrastructure, policy, specifications, and market
development. By dealing with common issues that face an
industry, these associations enable individual companies
to focus on core business competencies and proprietary
differences.
As broad-based experts on an industry, trade
associations are also an ideal focus factory for developing
a skilled workforce, as is the case with our fastener
industry. As a mature industry, we are fortunate to
have established partners through key associations like
the Industrial Fasteners Institute (IFI) and the Fastener
Training Institute (FTI). While different in membership and
purpose, the IFI and FTI are closely aligned on providing
critical industry education to advance the workforce and
address growing skills gaps.
TECHNICAL ARTICLE

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 33
AFC Industries has
acquired Cinnaminson New
Jersey based AALL AMERICAN
Fasteners (AAF). Terms of the
deal, the third AFC acquisition
this year, were not disclosed.
Founded in 1998, AALL
AMERICAN Fasteners is a
Vendor Managed Inventory
(VMI) services provider offering
a complete line of fasteners,
electronic hardware, electrical
components, tools, abrasives,
safety, and industrial products.
AFC CEO Kevin Godin
explained, “The addition of the
AALL AMERICAN Fasteners
team to the AFC family will
expand our reach into several
key growth areas and further
establish us in geographies
that are important to us.”
AAF Owner Mark
Tenenbaum added, “AFC
brings the perfect balance
of scale and flexibility that
will allow us to expand our
capabilities while continuing
to build upon the customer
service commitment that has
made us successful so far.”
Headquartered in Fairfield
OH, AFC Industries supplies
fasteners and assembly
components, specializing
in Vendor Managed
Inventory solutions (VMI) to
manufacturing and assembly
plants in a broad range of
industrial markets.
In April 2021 AFC Industries
was acquired by Bertram
Capital, based in Foster City
CA.
For more information about
AFC Industries visit them
online at www.afcind.com.

34
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
INxSQL A FULL-FEATURED, EASY-TO-USE ERP SOFTWARE
1117 S. Cass Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48328
TEL 1-877-446-9775 EMAIL sales@inxsql.com WEB www.inxsql.com
INxSQL ANNOUNCES SMARTCERT ®
INTEGRATION TO
AUTOMATE INBOUND & OUTBOUND CERT TRANSFER
As a leading provider of ERP software to the Fastener
Distribution Industry, INxSQL is continuing its commitment to
streamline and automate processes with the integration of
SmartCert ® . With the SmartCert ® integration, INxSQL users can
instantly connect inbound certs to the part and lot information
in the ERP and automate the preparation of SmartCerts for
their customers within the familiar INxSQL workflows. Their
customers can access certs by scanning a QR code or clicking
a link on the packing slip and build a free, cloud-based archive
of SmartCerts received from their suppliers.
President at INxSQL, Bob Reynolds has this to say -
“SmartCert ® is a natural extension of the existing functionality
in INxSQL. Our integration enhances paperless lot & cert
visibility from the manufacturer to the end customer. This
further provides INxSQL users the absolute best practices
and functionality in supply chain management. INxSQL with
SmartCert ® is a must have in our industry!”
SmartCert ® , launched in 2021 by Aramid Technologies,
is a universal online platform that helps manufacturers and
distributors manage and exchange certs with their customers
and suppliers. Unlike email, portals and paper which push
problems downstream, SmartCert ®
eliminates problems,
so everyone benefits from simpler processes, happier
customers, and more efficient and engaged employees.
“After spending my career seeing how much time,
money and opportunity was wasted due to cert problems, I
knew there had to be a better way” said Aramid Co-Founder
and CEO Lyndon Lattie.
Nearing 20 years in business, INxSQL has remained
steadfast in the support and customization they offer their
customers.
As the pandemic has transformed how we work and
communicate, their accessible and state-of-the-art software
gives their customers the freedom to work the way that
makes sense for them.
Today’s staffing shortages, work-from-home options,
higher material costs and an increasingly competitive
marketplace pose significant challenges to companies.
Companies are now prioritizing opportunities to create
remote access to systems and efficiencies in operations,
reductions in expenses and additional value-add services
to differentiate them from the competition.
With the integration of SmartCert ®
and the automation
it creates the cert transfer process, INxSQL is helping
their customers save time and money, reduce their use of
paper, and provide their customers access to certs where
and when they need it.
INxSQL users gain a competitive advantage by delivering
documentation in a format that upholds the highest quality
standards and process requirements. SmartCert ®
provides
instant recall and traceability, should parts fail inspection,
or an inquiry is initiated. It also reduces the risk of
alterations or manipulation to documents once it leaves
your facility.
For more information, contact SmartCert ® or INxSQL today
and start automating your material certification process. You
can reach them via email - Lyndon Lattie – llattie@smartcert.
tech or Rob Reynolds - rob.reynolds@inxsql.com.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
INxSQL

36
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.
TRUST BUT VERIFY
Since ancient times, long before the pyramids
of Egypt were built, and in every culture storage and
distribution has relied on a system of control with one
individual taking a tally and another verifying the count.
We are still doing this today, but should we?
Everyday customers, staff and you trust the warehouse
workers to be efficient, accurate and reliable. If this trust
is real then every order is on time, filled properly and
100% perfect in every respect. Everything in a service
business is built on this trust and generally it is not
misplaced. But have you ever considered how this can be
turned into a more efficient way to operate?
Follow the path of a typical “line” on an order. The
picker travels to the stock location, removes the item
from a shelf, places it on a cart, travels eventually to
a checking station where the goods are examined for
accuracy then the cart or product goes to a packing table
where it is placed into a carton, paperwork is provided,
the carton is sealed, labeled and common carrier shipping
labels are affixed.
All this is just for a full case or box count item.
For many Fastener Distributors it gets even worse
if the materials have to be weigh counted. Under
typical warehouse operating scenarios a bin is removed
from the shelf, taken to a scale, counted and then
returned (eventually/hopefully) to the right location in the
warehouse.
The end result is that 90% to 95% of the time the
picker is walking and then the goods are being handled
multiple times. While materials handling equipment to
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
move the product to the picker exists, it is expensive
initially, complex to maintain and often inflexible in terms
of throughput and cube utilization. Before investing in
fancy solutions why not build on what you already have?
Instead of all these steps, a simple solution is
instituting “Pick-Pack” where the goods are removed
from a shelf (preferably using a batched order scheme),
placed in a box, sealed and shipped. The savings in
time and effort can be enormous with a Return On
Investment (ROI) measured in days not years. The
concept seems simple, so why have so few Fastener
Distributors embraced it?
The most common reason is that management just
“doesn’t trust the warehouse staff to get things right.”
The only way to eliminate this fear is to start with your
beliefs and then develop a trustworthy program a piece at
a time.
“Trust But Verify”
One excellent approach is to use well proven statistical
sampling techniques to “know” what is going on. For an
academic understanding of how this works search the
Internet using the term “Acceptance Sampling.”. A more
pragmatic approach is to accept that for most distribution
operations a 4% sample of the finished, packed outbound
orders will provide about a 97% level pf confidence that
what is observed is “truth.” This is done by cutting open
random boxes at random times and verifying all possible
problems and perfection using criteria the same way your
customer would view the order.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 116

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 37
The NEFCO Corporation,
a leading partner to the
professional construction
trades, has completed the
acquisition of Russell Supply.
Russell Supply, founded in
1974 and located in South
Burlington, Vermont is a
contractor supply company
serving Vermont, New York,
and New Hampshire.
The addition of Russell
Supply further expands
NEFCO’s New England
presence and provides local
supply capabilities for current
and future Vermont customers.
“With our combined business
experience and knowledge of
over 80 years, we look forward
to the continued success
Russell Supply will build with
NEFCO and our customers
throughout Vermont” states
NEFCO CEO, David Gelles.
“We are thrilled to welcome
the dedicated professionals
from Russell Supply to our
growing NEFCO team. Each
member brings a level of
commitment and passion for
continued growth and success
in Vermont.”
NEFCO is a family owned
and operated construction
supply company providing a
broad range of products and
services to a large variety of
professional contractors.
For more information,
contact NEFCO Corporation
at 411 Burnham Road,
East Hartford, CT 06108.
Telephone: 1-800-969-0285,
Email: Inquiries@nefcocorp.
com or visit them online at
www.gonefco.com.

38
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
2152 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,
Suite 1060, Sanford, FL 32771
1-800-962-1614 sales@brikksen.com www.brikksen.com
BRIKKSEN….’BEYOND THE OFFICE’
By Stan Lockhart
Brikksen hosted a very successful golf event at the
luxurious Rosen Shingle Creek resort in Orlando, Florida
on January 13th and 14th. This was to thank customers,
sales reps and direct employees for contributing to the
company’s record-breaking sales performance in 2021. The
event featured an 18-hole contest, opening reception the
first night, and then dinner with awards after golf while also
covering the cost of lodging for two nights at this premium
destination. The theme for the gathering was “BEYOND the
Office” and exemplified the management style of creating
a complete and well-rounded approach to business and
interpersonal relationships.
Dee Ward, Brikksen’s Executive Vice President wanted
to integrate this business philosophy not only with their
employees and sales reps, but to include the customers
as an extension of their commitment. The idea being that
goodwill does not just exist during working hours, but carries
over into other facets of daily life. Personal and professional
well-being…. a work/life balance is a 24-7 proposition., they
feel. Happy employees, sales professionals, and customers
tend to interact on a better level when all the elements of
personal and work responsibilities are in balance.
Brikksen continues to be a leader in the market for
stainless steel fasteners and has long been pegged as just
SUNNY GOLF WEATHER IN FLORIDA FOR THE BRIKKSEN
BEYOND THE OFFICE GOLF EVENT JANUARY 15th, 2022
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
DEE WARD LEADS OFF THE TOURNAMENT AT SHINGLE CREEK
GOLF COURSE IN FLORIDA
having metric inventory since its inception in Dallas, Texas.
Fast forward to today and Brikksen has a complete line of
metric and imperial stainless steel fasteners as well as
brass, silicon bronze, aluminum, chrome plated stainless,
and maintains inventory on many C & D items including
stainless steel hose clamps. Brikksen’s growth has resulted
from constantly listening to the customer and in a business
that is easily commoditized, they stress customer service
everyday and in every transaction!
Brikksen has launched an aggressive marketing
campaign to create better company awareness and plans
to continue expanding the theme of “BEYOND” to other
aspects of their daily interaction with customers, suppliers,
employees and sales reps.
BRIKKSEN

40
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”.
BIG TECH AND THE PURCHASING PROCESS
Along with all the benefits which technology has
brought to Americans, one of the most visible is the
ability to secure products quickly on line and see them
appear on your doorstep or loading dock in the next
couple of days. Consumers are able to secure those
“hard to find” items now within minutes of beginning
an on-line search. It almost seems like magic. But---as
this new purchasing channel becomes widespread, how
do we insure that it won’t become a process totally
controlled by a few powerful companies who monopolize
the channel and squelch any competitor who raises his
or her head? How do we make sure that competition
survives to keep market pressure on all parties
to uphold service levels and maintain competitive
prices? This may have particular importance for trade
wholesalers.
This concern is being addressed by a bipartisan
congressional group led by Senator Amy Klobucher (D)
of Minnesota and Senator Tom Scott (R) of Arkansas
who have recently introduced the Platform Competition
and Opportunity Act, designed to make major tech
companies demonstrate that proposed mergers and
acquisitions are not anti-competitive. A similar bill
from Democratic Representative Hakeem Jeffries of
New York will be voted on in the near future. As can
be expected, there is a lot of concern being raised by
people and companies on both sides of the issue.
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
Proponents of the legislation point to threats from
domination of platforms by a few large companies that
could include refusal to deal with rivals, restrictive
contracting, predatory pricing and excessive barriers
to entry in the marketplace. Significant opposition
exists from those who fear that this and other related
measure are too broad, could serve to block innovation,
or might hamper consumers use of on-line services.
The Klobucher-Cotton bill would expand the
authority of the Justice Department and the Federal
Trade Commission to intervene and stop acquisitions
by large tech companies which would increase their
monopoly power. The burden of proof would be
shifted to the acquiring companies to establish that
their actions would not be anticompetitive. Klobucher
characterized this as a modernizing of our anti-trust
laws to deal with our new digital economy.
Jeffrie’s House Bill would target tech companies
with market capitalizations of over $600 billion dollars.
Last June a House Anti-Trust panel approved a group
of five bills to place more control on tech giant
companies. Provisions of these included things like
keeping tech user data portable, preventing platform
owners from selling their own products therein, and not
allowing preferences to be given to selected sellers.
The panel narrowly approved these on a bipartisan vote
after spirited debate.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 118

44
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
CERTIFICATE MANAGEMENT: STOP MISTAKES
AND SAVE TIME by Dennis Cowhey
Is Certificate Management Slowing
You Down?
Maintaining and delivering proper certifications is as
important as delivering the right part in many instances.
Fastener distributors know that it can become a complex
part to handle if an item requires certification. Each
product can have varying certification requirements for
each customer. When entering a purchase
order, someone must specify the type of
certifications that are required. If your software
does not have a certificate management
system integrated into your purchasing
processes, things are easily and often lost
later down the line when the details are
crucial. Costly mistakes can be made that
result in returns and can lose customers.
Knowledge In The Warehouse
While receiving inventory, someone
needs to know what information is required,
and they must be confident that they go with the product.
Certifications are often different based on individual
customer requirements. Depending on who you are
selling to, an order could require any combination of
documentation. Material Test Reports (MTR) are a
certified record of a material’s physical and chemical
properties. These qualities are necessary for assuring
proper compliance, reporting, and application purposes.
In some instances, an MTR is enough; other times, it is
not enough or can be too much.
The warehouse personnel needs to be able to
identify the correct lot of the product that has the
required certifications on file, and they need to be sure
that the documents go out with the product. If any step
in this process is missed, there is big trouble. When
orders are shipped without the required paperwork,
customers reject the parts and insist that all the missing
documentation be produced. Once a customer writes up
your company for nonconformance, you risk losing all
future sales to that customer.
Let Salespeople Sell
When a customer orders a part that usually requires
certifications, the person placing the order may not
specify it during the sales call. When the salesperson
is taking an order, they should not have to remember to
identify the customer’s previously stated requirements.
When your system remembers the details, you
are free to stay focused on selling and customer
relationships. If you require manual steps during your
sales process and in each stage of handling parts to
assure that the proper certs go out, you are inviting
problems. This approach is time-consuming and errorprone.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 120

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 45
UNICORP ELECTRONIC HARDWARE
291 Cleveland St, Orange, New Jersey 07050
TEL 1-800-526-1389 FAX 973 674-3803 EMAIL sales@unicorpinc.com WEB www.unicorpinc.com
UNICORP OFFERS CUSTOM PARTS AND SERVICES
Unicorp Electronic Hardware is proud to announce
that we are offering custom designed products. Parts
can be manufactured to blueprints and we can modify all
standard products to meet your specifications. Unicorp can
manufacture any type of CNC and automatic screw machine
part. Additionally, Unicorp provides custom services for
complete technical support that can lead to cost-savings
and design improvement. We offer the largest range of
material options and finishes in the industry. Unlike our
competitors, we can accommodate fast deliveries at no
extra charge.
Since 1971, Unicorp has been a socially and
environmentally responsible leading manufacturer
of American standard and metric precision electronic
hardware, fasteners and handles. We pride ourselves on our
dedication to customer satisfaction and our commitment
to support the needs of our distributors. Unicorp offers
top quality products, fast delivery, excellent pricing,
technical assistance, and manufacturer to customer print
specifications. We are known throughout the industry as
the “oddball king” because we offer the widest variety of
diameters, lengths, and finishes in our numerous product
lines. The best way to view our products is on our website,
www.unicorpinc.com, complete with all products, sales
information, specifications, engineering, and tolerances.
If you would like to request more information about our
products, call us at 973-674-1700 or 800-526-1389 or
email us at sales@unicorpinc.com.
Product lines consist of: Standoffs & Spacers, Male
to Female Standoffs, Male to Male Standoffs, Jackscrews,
Swage Standoffs, Captive Screws and Retainers, Insulating
Shoulder & Flat Washers, NAS/MS Hardware, Shoulder
Screws, Plastic Circuit Board Supports, Nylon Fasteners,
Dowel Pins, Thumbscrews & Thumbnuts, Self-Clinching
Fasteners, Cable Ties, 24 styles of Handles, Fixed, Folding,
Rack- Panel & Ferrules. Unicorp Electronic Hardware
is used by leading companies in nearly every industry
including electronics, telecommunications, aerospace,
military, medical, computer, automotive, energy, robotics,
marine, PCB mounting, circuit board assembly.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
UNICORP ELECTRONIC HARDWARE

46
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
TEL 323-817-2226 EMAIL london.penland@fastenershows.com
WEB www.fastenershows.com
THE BENEFITS OF EVENTS: WHY TRADE SHOWS
ARE CRITICAL TO CONNECTION by London Penland
Even in today’s digital age, trade shows continue
to be an effective marketing strategy staple. They allow
businesses a personal touchpoint to connect with
potential buyers and existing customers that simply
cannot be replicated online. Rapid advancements in
connecting online audiences, such as social media,
webinars and video conferencing, may appear to make
the need for face-to-face events obsolete, however,
in-person events still offer benefits that other marketing
methods cannot. If anything, market research indicates
that such technology has enabled greater engagement
at such events. A trade show, especially a trade show
with the depth and breadth of the International Fastener
Expo, provides a personal and exciting experience (vital
components in making the critical connections that
define our presence within the industry). As you plan
for this year and the years ahead, especially within the
context of recently tumultuous market changing events,
consider how exhibiting at IFE, taking place October
17-19, 2022 at Mandalay Bay, may help you and your
business effectively adapt to current market conditions
to best meet the needs of your current customers and
establish relationships with potential new customers.
In-person interactions help build trust more
effectively, especially when compared to exchanging
emails or other digital methods. At a trade show, sales
leaders, owners, purchasing leaders, engineers and
other industry individuals can communicate face-to-face
with existing and potential customers. This increases the
odds of a positive customer for a variety of reasons and
supported by an overwhelming amount of psychological
SHOW EVENT ARTICLE
research, there are plenty of books on this topic for
business and sales leaders. A few big ones are the
fact that communication is not delayed. Customers are
also less likely to misinterpret information, allowing for
stronger rapport to be built and as we all know, especially
in the fastener industry, building and maintaining the
trust of your customers is crucial for success. Not
to mention, I find meeting with customers in-person
can help you build lasting relationships built on trust,
therefore when I conduct follow-ups and additional
conversations with customers they will be more efficient
since the customer has personally met me beforehand
and may have recently discussed their needs.
Just like with human relationships, our business
relationships require maintenance. For example, the
availability of rooms for rent for having more intimate
professional conversations with crucial individuals and
businesses, enables businesses to efficiently make use
of the industry’s presence.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 122

48
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 FAST FASTENER FACTS AND ANSWERS
After presenting hundreds of Fastener Safety training
seminars, there have always been standard questions
asked from users and purchasers regarding the selection
and use of fasteners. I have compiled many points into
quick, one sentence phrases that will help answer many
of those asked and unasked questions.
Fastener Selection
[1] Always be sure the order is correct if there is a
question.
a. This seems basic but maintenance personnel
use jargon and descriptions not easily recognizable on a
Purchasing Order to non-technical personnel.
[2] If the order includes one Grade or Class of
fastener and a different Grade or Class of nut that is the
same size, ask and reconfirm.
[3] Always use a nut whose strength matches the
grade of its mating fastener.
a. This may happen at the procurement level where
incorrect product was bought, due to lack of specification
or price.
b. This may occur at the maintenance level where
many types of products are stored and may be mixed
when excess product is returned.
[4] Make sure all of the fasteners and nuts in a
multiple connection are the same grade.
a. Sometimes fasteners may become mixed and put
into the same storage container.
[5] Bolt lengths should be long enough to
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
accommodate a flat washer under the head and under
the nut when applicable.
a. There only needs to be at least two bolt threads
sticking out of a tightened nut. Any more threads than
two are useless and increases the stresses on the
threads in the joint.
[6] Always use a hardened SAE flat washer under
the nut and bolt head with any fastener whose strength
is an SAE Grade 5 or ISO Class 8.8 or stronger.
[7] USS flat washers should only be used on sheet
metal, plastics or compressible materials.
a. The USS flat washer does not increase the load
bearing surface any more than an SAE washer does on
a steel joint.
b. The only fastener products that will increase the
load bearing surface area is a flanged head bolt and nut
because it is an integral part of the fastener.
[8] Fine threads (UNF) will produce 10% more clamp
load than a coarse threaded fastener.
a. This is due to the differences in stress area;
there is more metal with the UNF.
b. The shallow helix angle makes fine threads less
susceptible to loosening from vibration.
[9] Never mix nut and bolt finishes in a multiple bolt
connection.
a. That is, non-plated with plated or with different
types of coatings.
b. Especially with hot dipped galvanized products
where the nuts may be overtapped.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 124

50
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
CRESCENT MANUFACTURING
700 George Washington Turnpike, Burlington, CT 06013 TEL 860-673-2591
EMAIL sales@crescentmanufacturing.com WEB www.crescentmanufacturing.com
CRESCENT LAUNCHES NEW ON-LINE MARKETPLACE
Crescent Manufacturing is excited to announce the
launch of our on-line marketplace. Over the next few
weeks existing customers will be receiving a username
and password which will allow access to the online
ordering system at www.crescentmanufacturing.com. New
customers will have the opportunity to register on the
website to gain access to purchase existing inventory.
Once in the portal customers can access inventory,
price parts and place orders for existing inventory. There will
also be the ability to upload prints and request quotes for
parts not in stock. The next step in the integration plan is to
offer customers full access to the Crescent ERP system to
receive quotes, place orders and track those orders as they
move through the manufacturing process. The full roll out
of options is expected to be complete by 4th quarter 2022.
Any customers who would like a demonstration of the
expanded capabilities available on the Crescent website
can visit us at the Fastener Fair in Detroit, May 17 through
the 19th where we will be exhibiting in booth 245. We will
also be exhibiting at the International Fastener Expo in Las
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
Vegas in October. Stop by and see us at Booth 1014 in
Vegas.
Dan Bielefield, Vice President at Crescent stated “we
are incredibly excited to offer this service to our customers.
When complete this upgrade will allow our distributor
partners the ability to fully integrate with Crescent’s ERP
system which will offer the ability to receive a quote,
place orders and track those orders through the entire
manufacturing process. The opportunity to offer our
customers this ability to interact with our systems is an
important step in our pursuit to become our customers
premier manufacturing partner.”
Founded in 1960 and located in Burlington Ct Crescent
Manufacturing is a fastener manufacturer supplying precision
fasteners to distributors around the world. Products range
in size from 00 to 3/8 inches in diameter or M1 to M10 with
lengths up to 3 inches (76 mm) long. Materials include a
wide variety, including alloy steel (4037, 8740), aluminum,
most stainless steels, Monel, carbon steel, brass, phos
bronze and several other materials.
CRESCENT MANUFACTURING
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
SCHOLARSHIP GOLF OUTING - JUNE 2, 2022 by Nancy Rich
The New England Fastener Distributors Association
will be hosting this year’s Scholarship Golf Outing
on Thursday, June 2nd at Juniper Hill Golf Course in
Northborough, MA. Prizes will be awarded to the 1st,
2nd and 3rd place foursomes. Course contests will also
give golfers an opportunity to win prizes throughout the
day. All proceeds from this event go directly to the NEFDA
Scholarship Fund. Hole and hospitality sponsorships as
well as Premium sponsors are a great way to show your
support! A multitude of awesome raffle prizes are always
an anticipated part of this event.
Schedule For The Day
8.30am Registration
9:00am
Breakfast
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
10:00am Shotgun Start
3:00pm Cocktails, Barbeque Awards and Raffle
Early bird rates available!
Registration and further information can be found at
www.nefda.com. Questions? Please contact Nancy Rich by
email nefda@nefda.com or by phone 847-370-9022.
NEW ENGLAND FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION

52
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
GLOBALFASTENERNEWS.COM
by JOHN WOLZ EDITOR
editor@globalfastenernews.com
STAINLESS STEEL SHORTAGE:
NO CHANGE UNTIL MORE PRODUCTION
“Don’t hold out hope for the U.S.’s stainless steel
shortage to get better until you know of new supply
coming online,” guest columnists wrote in AgMetalMiner.
com.
“There appear to be no plans in the works to
increase domestic production,” C.J. Nord of Supply
Chains for Good, and Harry Moser of the Reshoring
Initiative wrote. “Supply may tighten even more than we
have seen. This is similar install to the chip shortage.”
Nord and Moser said the shortage “became a
national concern in January 2021, when ATI Metals took
304 stainless offline and shifted production to 316
grade.” ATI’s change took away about 30% of the U.S.
supply offline.
Even if a mill decides to bring 304 online, it could
take as much as a year for supply to reach the distributor
level,” they estimated.
“This is a long-term, painful shortage,” Nord and
Moser concluded.
Projects are being canceled due to lack of stainless
steel and/or a price increase “that puts it out of
budget. The shortage appears to be hitting mom-and-pop
manufacturers much harder than the large OEMs,” the
AgMetalMiner.com guest columnists wrote.
“Engineers are well respected for developing
solutions to material shortages,” Nord and Moser
wrote. “3D and additive manufacturing has created new
solutions.”
There may be other changes a company can make
internally, they suggested.
“A team investigating the shortage — including a
broad range of manufacturing trade associations, steel
distributors and manufacturing companies — concluded
that the broader economic impact is potentially severe,”
Nord and Moser wrote.
“Reshoring is booming due to supply chain
disruption,” but companies will be less likely to reshore
if 304 is not available, Moser said.
Impacted industries include construction,
infrastructure, defense, aerospace, medical devices and
food equipment. OEMs impacted include HVAC, mufflers,
plumbing, fabricators, stampers, shims, machine shops
and springs.
Western Metal Roofing.com noted steel prices hit
record highs in 2021 due to increased demand “and a
supply shortage throughout the global steel market that
left everyone scrambling to find raw material.”
Steel supply began to improve in the fourth quarter
of 2021, but there is “still a very large demand for steel,
especially from the automotive industry that needs steel
for its computer chip shortage,” WesternMetalRoofing.
com reported. Customers are “under allocation,” and it
can take four-to-six months for delivery
“As of October 2021, steel supply is just beginning
to improve,” WesternMetalRoofing.com observed. “While
it’s nowhere near where it was prior to the start of the
Covid 19 pandemic, there is better availability today.
However, we have to emphasize that while things are
starting to look up, we are still in a steel shortage.”
High steel prices “have started to level off” and
steel buyers aren’t find the “month-over-month volatile
price increases that occurred earlier in 2021. “We
expect the price of steel overall to remain flat into the
2nd quarter of 2022 based on the state of the steel
market today. As imported steel is starting to come into
the US more, it will help with the overall steel shortage.
We should see the supply being less tight by the end of
the 2nd quarter of 2022.”
“However, do not expect prices to drastically fall in
2022,”
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 126

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 53

54
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
HOW TO DETERMINE THE PROPER DISC SPRING
STACK CONFIGURATION by John Leckfor, Applications Engineer
Disc Springs are
conically-shaped precision
components designed to
be axially loaded. Disc
Springs can be statically
loaded either continuously
or intermittently, or
dynamically subjected to
continuous load cycling. What sets Disc Springs apart
from other types of springs is that deflection of the
Disc at a given load is predictable making it possible
to calculate the minimum cycle life. Due to their
predictability, high reliability, and unparalleled fatigue life,
Disc Springs are preferred over all other types of springs
in critical applications such as safety valves, clutch and
brake mechanisms for elevators and heavy equipment,
and supports for industrial pipe systems. Disc Springs
can be used individually or assembled into stacks to
achieve the force-deflection characteristics required for
the application. This White Paper details the different
methods of stacking Disc Springs, and how to determine
the proper stack configuration for a particular application.
To achieve the optimal Disc Spring performance, it is
best to keep the working deflection between 15% and 75%
FIGURE 1
of full deflection as it is in this range that measured results
most accurately match the theoretical characteristics of
the Disc Spring. If a single Disc Spring is not capable
of the force/deflection characteristics the application
requires, Disc Springs can be stacked in series, parallel
or combination to achieve the requirements (See Below:
Methods of Stacking and Figure 1).
Methods Of Stacking
IN PARALLEL
Deflection: Same as single Disc
Force: Single Disc multiplied by the
number of Discs
IN SERIES
Deflection: Single Disc multiplied by
the number of Discs
Force: Same as single Disc
IN COMBINATION
Deflection: Single Disc multiplied by
the number of Discs in series
Force: Single Disc multiplied by the
number of parallel Discs in a set
TECHNICAL ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 128

56
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 ANNOUNCES NEW VENUE FOR
2022 FSTNR WEEK By Nancy Rich
Fastener Show, Training, Networking,
Recreation All In One Week
MWFA will hold FSTNR Week August 22nd - August
26th. This event has proven to be a significant week
of opportunities bringing the fastener industry together.
This year’s show and golf will be at Oak Brook Hills
Resort in Oak Brook, IL. This venue offers attendees the
opportunity to stay on site for both events saving on travel
time and allowing for more networking! This upscale
conference hotel is 15 miles from O’Hare International
Airport. The resort has several areas for dining, indoor and
outdoor pools, a gym, spa, game room and sports courts
for guests to enjoy. The resort is also near the Morton
Arboretum, Brookfield Zoo, and upscale shopping at Oak
Brook Mall.
The week will kick off with an added feature of FSTNR
Week ‘22 on Sunday (August 21st) with a charitable
event. The MWFA is proud to partner with Sleep in
Heavenly Peace. SHP works with groups/communities
to build beds for kids who don’t have their own. They
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
believe that a bed is a basic need for the proper physical,
emotional, and mental support that a child needs. Sleep
in Heavenly Peace is 100% volunteer-driven and donationdriven.
MWFA is inviting the fastener industry to donate to
cover the cost of building beds and come help us build the
beds on August 21st. Industry personnel, families, and
friends, come out and enjoy the socialization while helping
children in need. No special skills needed to assist, as
there’s something for everyone!
A Safeguards for Buying Import or Domestic
Manufactured Fasteners Seminar, guiding fastener
personnel with a checklist of potential pitfalls and a list
of questions to identify and ask prior to ordering special
parts will be held on August 23rd from 9:30am-12:00pm
prior to the opening of the show. This seminar focuses
on avoiding costly mistakes in product error. The class will
be taught by Richard Pease, who before owning his own
company R.K. Precision Products, worked for domestic
cold header manufacturers, and various Industrial
Fastener Distributors. Richard has over 35 years of
product experience, purchasing, and sales in the fastener
industry. He has been instrumental in coordinating MWFA
education programs for many years.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 130

58
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
Joe Sasso
Coach Joe Sasso started his business careers with Motorola, a global telecommunications
company. He worked in sales, service, management, and leadership - heading a global
business consulting, training, and development team - developing 37 business training
programs for industry. In 1997 he started Team 2 Learn, Inc., which facilitates business
retreats to improve Leadership and Team Performance. He is a certified John Maxwell
Coach, Trainer and Speaker and a certified Emotional Intelligence Mentor. He is an author
and has written several books. Email joe@team2learninc.com.
NEED A SUPPLEMENT FOR YOUR LEADERSHIP
TEAMWORK CURRICULUM?
SPIRAL UP: THE SURPRISING
SECRET TO GREAT TEAM RESULTS
- a business fable based on the
true-life experiences of business
leaders who have been in the
trenches.
How This Book Can Assist You
¤ As a seamless case study for
students moving from classroom to
actual business experience.
¤ As a character development
study about leadership and a team
challenged by a time-to-market imperative.
¤ As a student business internship experience
before actually participating in an outside business
internship.
¤ As a script of questions for discussion using
the ‘Reflections for Deeper Learning’ at the end of
each chapter.
The story opens with a challenge taken on by a
leader who feels the need to assign leadership duties to
a trusted colleague. However, the colleague won’t take
on that responsibility. There are some ‘ah ha’ moments
from the dog in the story that the students will sense,
learn and enjoy. The Spiral UP model adds passion
to the business team as they reach peaks and then
experience a crash in the valley. Chapter after chapter
the story climbs before arriving at the synchronicity of
what their experiences teach them. The book’s team
development and growth process will be another learning
point in their professional and personal lives.
Thank You for the work you do in preparing people to
understand the organizational structure of business teams.
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
Spiral Up: The Surprising Secret to great
Team Results may be the supplement
to give your team a learning experience
before they get real work experience.
Learning Lessons
Prologue - The Power of the Big
Vision - Visions of Peer Leaders, Focus
and United
Chapter 1 - Embracing the Leader’s
Primary Role - Mutual Commitment
Chapter 2 - The Beginning: A new kind
of invitation - Mutual Agendas
Chapter 3 - Kick Off Meeting: A new kind of Partnership
- Know the Power of 2
Chapter 4 - Spiral Revealed - Power of the Spiral
Chapter 5 - Framework for Team Communications -
Preview for the Power of Great Reviews
Chapter 6 - Developing Trust - Relationships at the
Ground floor
Chapter 7 - “It’s My Baby” - Daddy does not know best
Chapter 8 - Blindsided - Holding back is a holdup
Chapter 9 - Accountability leads to Recovery -
Knowing how to correct the wrong
Chapter 10 - Back on Track - Coaching basics
Chapter 11 - From Breakdown to Breakthrough -
Teach & Retain the Spiral model
Chapter 12 - Ominous Warning - Communicating Bad News
Chapter 13 - Communicating Bad News -
Communicating Good News
Chapter 14 - The Celebration - Learning is winning
Chapter 15 - The Spiral with Heart - Passion is
really __________
Epilogue - SWOT + Never Give Up
CONTINUED ON PAGE 140

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 59

60
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
MAYBE IT’S NOT THE MILLENNIALS,
MAYBE IT’S YOUR COMPANY
Henry Ford famously said, “If I had asked people what
they wanted, they would have said a faster horse”. It is
true that the car changed everything about American life,
from how far our houses could be from work, to the 3.9
million miles of roadways that connect the nation.
We are going through a similar dramatic change
today. Technology and automation are changing the
way we work, creating an ever-changing landscape;
distributors must adapt or risk losing the talented people
that they have . They could even miss out on attracting the
talent that they need in the future.
Last week I had conversations with owners of two
successful distribution businesses with 40 and 70 years
in business respectively. Their main concern how to
attract new talent from open positions in the warehouse,
sales and purchasing.
The HR emergency that we are seeing unfold in realtime
forces organizations to reevaluate everything about
work. “What is temporary vs. what is transformative?” is
something people are talking about over coffee and in
boardrooms across the industry. This question will help
to meet the crises and thrive in the post-pandemic world.
Though the infection rate is slowly receding both here and
abroad, the future of work is changing beyond the crisis.
The pandemic has affected work as we know it and will
continue to do so in the coming years.
Accounting for the changes, there is an urgent
need for companies to build innovative approaches and
strategies on three levels.
[1] Temporary Changes
The COVID-19 crisis has forced companies to strictly
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
follow certain rules such as social distancing and workfrom-home.
Changing the operating model to keep the
lights on was challenging. Many companies redeployed
and repurposed team members for tasks related to safety.
It helped them cope with the crises, but these changes
need to be temporary. Though it helped companies learn
how to survive pandemic, it won’t be relevant when
COVID-19 protocols slacken.
[2] Permanent Changes
We adopted trends that were once regarded long-term
future work in response to the pandemic. The market has
experienced an explosion in digitalization and automation.
Something that was once considered ambitious suddenly
became key to survival. These are some irreversible
changes that have impacted the nature of work forever.
[3] New Ways Of Work
The pandemic also ushered in a proliferation of
new ways of doing work and generating income. The
outlook on work has changed; this trend has not yet
been categorized as permanent or temporary but, it has
given us new perspective. For instance, today, workers
can perform tasks remotely and more efficiently, from
shopping, to learning and beyond.
It will be interesting to see which of these changes
and trends are here to stay. With the evolving technology
and shift in societal expectations, organizations are
nurturing new avenues of capital generation. However,
one thing that stays beyond is determining the uncertainty
of change and strategizing decisions across the three
levels to succeed in the market.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 142

62
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
FASTENER TRAINING INSTITUTE ®
1545 N. Columbus Avenue Glendale, CA 91202
TEL 562-473-5373 EMAIL info@FastenerTraining.org WEB www.FastenerTraining.org
FASTENER TRAINING INSTITUTE’S JO MORRIS
NAMED WIFI 2021 WOMAN IN BUSINESS
The Fastener Training
Institute (FTI) is proud to
announce Marketing Director
Jo Morris has been named the
“2021 Woman in Business”
by Women in the Fastener
Industry (WIFI). WIFI defines
a Woman in Business as a
champion and community
advocate who works to
unite, educate, mentor and
encourage other women to
reach their full potential.
“I am immensely
grateful to belong to such an
outstanding association and
honored to receive this special award,” said Morris.
“There are many women in the fastener industry I look up
to and respect, especially my fellow WIFI members, who
have worked hard over the years to advance women in the
fastener industry.”
Morris has more than 30 years of experience in the
fastener industry and serves dual roles as the Director
of Marketing for FTI, as well as a Managing Partner for
Desert Distribution. She is passionate about giving back
to the industry and providing industry education and
mentoring to the next generation to help them succeed in
the industry.
Jo joined FTI in 2014 and oversees all aspects of
the in-person and on-line training program for the nonprofit
dedicated to education and training in the fastener
industry. In addition, in 2014 Jo joined Desert Distribution
as a manufacturer’s rep selling engineered components,
and in 2020 was promoted to Managing Partner of Desert
TECHNICAL ARTICLE
Distribution covering the territories of California, Nevada,
Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Colorado.
Beginning her career at Copper State Bolt & Nut, she
learned inside sales and account support and eventually
became their Sales Manager for Colorado. She also
spent time at Kemper Products, which specialized in
fastener and engineered components distribution.
Jo has received awards for her achievements
and contributions to the fastener industry, including
recognition by Fastener Engineering magazine.
About Fastener Training Institute
FTI is a nonprofit organization that provides
beginning and advanced training on fastener products,
standards and specifications. Our core purpose is to
enhance fastener use, reliability and safety. Our mission
is to make you more knowledgeable about the fastening
products you buy, sell, specify or use.
FASTENER TRAINING INSTITUTE

64
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
VOLT INDUSTRIAL PLASTICS
700 Hwy 202 West, Yellville AK 72687
TEL 800-844-8024 EMAIL service@voltplastics.com WEB www.voltplastics.com
VOLT BREAKING GROUND FOR NEW EXPANSION
Volt Industrial Plastics holds ground breaking
ceremony for an all-new 36,000 square-foot expansion.
Volt is located outside of Yellville, Arkansas, and
manufactures the finest plastic fasteners in the world.
This expansion will now give the factory a total of
100,000 square feet, allowing them to expand their
current inventory of over 100 million parts to even more.
Employing just under 100 people, Volt not only
manufactures plastic fasteners which are shipped
domestically and internationally, but also builds all of
their tooling and parts in house. This results in huge cost
savings which is then passed on to their customers.
“I want to say thank you to each and every one of
you that work here every day and work so hard,” said
Heidi Volltrauer, Volt’s COO/President of Marketing and
Sales, at the January 7, 2022 groundbreaking ceremony.
“I hope you’re all as excited as I am of where we’re going
this next year and the years to come. So if I had a drink
in hand I’d say, ‘Cheers,’ but that’ll be later. We’ll all be
cheering later and throughout the year.”
The expansion began in January and should be
completed by late summer of this year.
With a heritage of growth and hard work, Volt
Industrial Plastics is committed to our customers and
our future. You are valued. We are innovative and take
pride in our company and the products we manufacture.
We welcome every opportunity to put our experience,
technical expertise and rapid-response production
capability to work for you. Contact a member of our
friendly, knowledgeable sales team today to find out how
we can help.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
VOLT INDUSTRIAL PLASTICS

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 65
AFC Industries has
acquired Santa Fe Springs,
California based Askew
Industrial Corporation.
Terms of the deal, the
fourth AFC acquisition in
2021, were not disclosed.
Founded in 1957,
Askew is a global leader in
supply chain logistics and
distribution of industrial,
MIL-SPEC and engineered
fasteners, components
and MRO products.
AFC CEO Kevin Godin
said, “We are very excited
to have Askew join the
AFC family. They have a
long history of providing
excellent service to their
customers, expand our
reach in markets we found
attractive, and they will
help us accelerate our
expansion strategy in the
western United States.”
Former Askew owner
Turan (“Ron”) Kahraman
added: “We had many good
options when it came to
potential partners.
We were confident that
AFC’s culture was closely
aligned with that of Askew’s,
and this combined with its
financial resources, AFC
provides an environment of
personal and professional
growth for our experienced
and hardworking team
members. We look forward
to a long and successful
future together.”
For more information
about AFC Industries products
and services, visit them online
at www.afcind.com.

66
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
MACLEAN-FOGG COMPANY
1000 Allanson Rd, Mundelein, IL 60060
TEL 847-566-0010 WEB www.macleanfoggcs.com
INTRODUCING THREADSTRONG ®
- A NEW LINE OF
MADE-IN-USA AFTERMARKET WHEEL FASTENERS
MacLean-Fogg Component Solutions (MFCS), a
leading supplier of original equipment automotive
components, announces the
launch of the Threadstrong® brand
and accompanying ecommerce
website www.Threadstrong.us.
“We are well known as the
leading OEM supplier in North
America for high performance,
decorative wheel fasteners. It’s
always been frustrating to us to
see the aftermarket flooded with
inferior, low quality and potentially
dangerous replacement wheel
fasteners of unknown origin.
So, we decided to do something about it.” Said
Brad Southwood, MFCS Vice President of Sales and
Marketing.
“No team is more knowledgeable about how to
engineer and manufacture safe and durable wheel
fasteners than the MacLean-Fogg team. We’ve been
the leading supplier to many of the world’s largest
automakers for over 40 years. We want the aftermarket
consumers to know that when they buy a Threadstrong®
wheel fastener, they can trust it was made in the U.S.A
to all of the needed safety specifications.” Said Rob
Whitney, President of the MFCS Fastener Division.
“A lot goes into wheel fasteners that the general
consumer probably doesn’t think about. Beyond just
obvious considerations like material strength, corrosion
resistance, and durability, there is a tremendous
amount of engineering and quality control that goes
into controlling the friction of the fastener’s load
bearing surface against the
wheel. Too much friction and the
wheel fastener will torque down
while still being loose against
the wheel, creating a potentially
unsafe condition. Too little friction
and the act of torqueing the nut
down can overstretch the stud
creating a wheel stud failure. Can
you trust that the replacement
nuts you see online or in retail
stores have the proper friction
and coatings needed to assure a
safe clamp? Our benchmark testing shows significant
inconsistencies. What we do know is that Threadstrong®
wheel fasteners will be safe to install and will work in
the stated application.” Said Mark Raves, Director of
Wheel Fastener Engineering for MFCS.
Threadstrong® wheel fasteners are available direct
to consumers via www.Threadstrong.use-commerce
website and other select outlets.
Every Threadstrong® aftermarket wheel fastener
is engineered and built in MFCS factories in Michigan
and Illinois. The Threadstrong® brand is launching
with a limited number of applications in both stainless
steel and black appearance with new applications to be
added soon.
For more information, visit www.Threadstrong.us or
www.macleanfoggcs.com/Threadstrong.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
MACLEAN-FOGG

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 67
AUTO BOLT
Auto Bolt is a proud
American privately owned
domestic Bolt manufacturer
located in Cleveland, Ohio. For
the past 70 years, Auto Bolt
has experienced continual
growth and expansion based
on our solid reputation, strong
relationships and following
our “core values”. Auto Bolt
offers extensive fastener
knowledge at all levels of
the organization. We provide
a customized approach
starting with quick, accurate
quoting and carrying through
to CAD drawings, die design,
and delivery. With products
that are 100% domestically
made in Cleveland, Ohio,
Auto Bolt works directly with
customers and distributor
partners to customize a
solution rather than one-sizefits-all
products.
Our reputation is built
on meeting customers’
quality requirements and
delivering parts as promised.
Our complete in-house
engineering and tooling
teams assist customers
from start to finish, both
with current and new product
designs. We provide products
for many industries including
Automotive, Truck and
Trailer, Heavy Construction,
Agricultural, Solar, and
Military.
Now is the
time to source
domestic and
blend your
pricing.
Our full engineering, tooling and
design experts offers extensive
fastener knowledge at all levels of
the organization. We work closely
with our distributor partners to
offer their customers solutions
and the best quality, on-time
products in the industry.
Auto Bolt production size
ranges run 5/16“(M8) to 1-1/8”
(M27) including Hex Flange
Bolts, Hex Cap Screws, Shoulder
and Place Bolts, Wheel Bolts,
Carriage Bolts, Plow Bolts,
12-Point Bolts, Tank Bolts, Pins,
Double End Collar Bolts, Spring
Bolts and many Specials Per
Print. We also offer secondary
processes including Drilling
and Grinding, Heat Treatment,
Plating, Passivation, Patching and
Sorting.
For additional information,
contact Auto Bolt by telephone:
1-800-988-2658 or visit them
at www.autoboltusa.com. Please
send RFQ’s direct to quotes@
autoboltusa.com.

68
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
AMERICAN BELLEVILLE
8059 Crile Road, Concord, OH 44077
TEL 440-721-8350 LES RIGA 216-403-6058 PERRY BLOSSOM 440-343-4792 WEB www.AmericanBelleville.com
NOT ALL BELLEVILLE WASHERS OR
DISC SPRINGS ARE THE SAME
What Are Belleville Washers
And Disc Springs Used For?
To the untrained eye, Belleville
washers and Disc Springs may seem
to be simple products that can be
duplicated by nearly any manufacturer
or stamping company. But that couldn’t
be further from the truth. Simply put,
Belleville washers and Disc Springs
are engineered to support high loads,
relative to deflection compared to
ordinary lock washers or helical springs.
They reduce loosening in bolted joints
resulting from vibration, relaxation,
and differential thermal expansion and
contraction. They should be expected
to perform consistently for thousands to millions of
cycles when made and utilized properly.
What makes a Belleville washer unique is that it
is designed to meet locking requirements that other
types of washers cannot. Once pressure is applied
on a Belleville washer, it equally distributes the load
instead of concentrating it on one area. But how are they
different from one another?
Belleville Washers And Disc Springs:
Engineered Products vs. Commodities
Because of the critical requirements of Belleville
washers and Disc Springs, a high-quality product is
crucial in nearly all applications. That is a main reason
why our partners choose American Belleville as their
exclusive provider. While many manufacturers consider
these products a commodity, our team views them as
highly-engineered components. We carefully design and
manufacture them to do exactly what you need them
to do, and for as long as you need them to. Belleville
Washers and Disc Springs should not be viewed as
disposable, and if properly sourced and utilized, they
should be expected to be able to be re-used over and
over, each time as predictably as the last. It’s important
to ask yourself these questions, and perhaps more
importantly, the supplier that you choose:
¤ “Will this product meet the required load/
deflection characteristics?”
¤ “Does my application call for a part that is pre-set?”
¤ “Do my fatigue-life expectations warrant the use
of a shot-peened product?”
¤ “Have proper deburring techniques been utilized
in manufacturing the products I am buying in
order to mitigate over-stressing problems and
eliminate the risk of cracking or breaking?”
¤ “Will the Disc Spring stack I have designed
perform as needed in the environment that it will
be in?”
¤ “Have I selected the optimal material/finish
combination for the temperature and corrosion
resistance needed?”
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 174

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 69

70
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.
SECTION 1202 STOCK: HOW TO EXCLUDE UP TO $10
MILLION ON THE SALE OF YOUR BUSINESS! - PART 2
The title of this article is NOT a typo, that’s right...
up to $10 Million United States Dollars can be excluded
from the sale of a business if certain parameters are met.
Business owners should take note of the very important
requirements that allow the exclusion of up to $10 million
in federal tax. Section 1202 is an EXTREMELY beneficial
portion of Internal Revenue Code and so long as the
correct rules are followed, the exclusion is easy to apply.
Section 1202 is also referred to as the Small
Business Stock Gains Exclusion. The Section only applies
to qualified small business stock acquired after Sept. 27,
2010, that is held for more than five years. The Protecting
Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015 was passed
by Congress and signed into law by President Obama. One
tax benefit, made permanent by the Obama presidency, is
the Small Business Stock Capital Gains Exclusion found
in Section 1202 of the Internal Revenue Code. The intent
behind Section 1202 is to provide an incentive for noncorporate
taxpayers to invest in small businesses in the
United States.
Before 2009, this provision of Section 1202 excluded
50% of capital gains from gross income. To stimulate
American small businesses, the American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act increased the exclusion rate from 50%
to 75% for stocks purchased between February 18, 2009,
and September 27, 2010. The latest revision to Section
1202 provides for 100% exclusion of any capital gains
if the acquisition of the small business stock was after
September 27, 2010. Also, the treatment of no portion of
the excluded gain is a preferential element for alternative
minimum tax (AMT) purposes. The capital gains that
are exempt from tax under this section are also exempt
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
from the 3.8% net investment income (NII) tax applied to
other investment income. The amount of gain that any
shareholder can exclude under Section 1202 is limited to
either $10 million or 10 times the adjusted basis of the
stock. The taxable portion of a gain from selling a small
business stock has an assessment at the maximum tax
rate of 28%.
As previously discussed, not all small business
stocks are lucky enough to qualify for the tax breaks under
Section 1202. There are very stringent requirements that
must be followed with regards to qualified small business
stock. Those requirements are as follows.
[1] It was issued by a domestic c-corporation other
than a hotel, restaurant, financial institution, real estate
company, farm, a mining company, or business related
to law, engineering, or architecture. Note: while Section
1202 does not speak to an LLC taxed as a c-corporation,
a Private Letter ruling by the IRS allowed Section 1202
treatment for an LLC that chose to be taxed as a
c-corporation.
[2] It was initially issued after August 10, 1993 in
exchange for money, property, or as compensation for a
service that was rendered.
[3] On the date of the stock issue and immediately
thereafter, the issuing corporation had $50 million or less
in assets.
[4] The use of at least 80% of the corporation’s
assets is for the active conduct of one or more qualified
businesses.
[5] The issuing corporation does not purchase any
of the stock from the taxpayer during a four-year period
beginning two years before the issue date.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 144

72
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
FASTENER INDUSTRY COALITION
MARTY NOLAN TEL 216-389-2405 EMAIL m.nolan@rlenglish.com
WEB www.fastenercoalition.org
WHO HAS MADE A SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION
TO THE FASTENER INDUSTRY? by Vickie Lester
2022 marks the 40th
anniversary of the Fastener
Hall of Fame, which
recognizes professionals who
have made significant and
enduring contributions to the
industrial fastener industry on
a national or global scale.
As part of the annual
International Fastener Expo,
the Hall of Fame inductees are selected from names
submitted by people like you.
Now is the time for you to nominate someone you
think has made a difference to the industry, through
leadership, innovation, and education.
The process is simple: visit https://fastenershows.
com/awards-events-page/hall-of-fame/ to submit your
nomination online. The deadline this year to submit
nominations is July 30.
All nominations are reviewed and evaluated by the
Board of Directors of the Fastener Industry Coalition,
an organization comprised of representatives from
thirteen regional and national fastener industry nonprofit
associations.
Marty Nolan of R.L. English, the current chair of
the Fastener Industry Coalition, says, “When making
nominations, remember that the team that reviews
submissions may not be as familiar with the individuals
as you are, so please be sure to include details that tell
the nominee’s story and how they have made an impact
on the fastener industry.”
Young Fastener Professional of the Year
Since 2016, the International Fastener Expo
also has recognized a
young professional (age 40
and under) who has made
significant contributions to
fastener industry.
Please also consider
nominating someone who
is a rising star in the
fastener industry for their
achievements and potential.
Visit https://fastenershows.com/awards-events-page/
young-fastener-professional-award to submit your
nomination by July 30.
History
Mike McGuire and Jim Bannister, producers of the
National Industrial Fastener Show, started the Fastener
Hall of Fame in 1982. Mike and Jim would consult with
industry associates to select the inductees each year.
When Mike and Jim sold their tradeshow to Emerald
Expositions, Emerald carried on the Hall of Fame tradition,
asking the Fastener Industry Coalition to manage and
administer the selection process for inductees.
Members of the Fastener Industry Coalition include
the Fastener Training Institute, Industrial Fasteners
Institute, Metropolitan Fastener Distributors Association,
Mid-Atlantic Fastener Distributors Association, Mid-West
Fastener Association, National Fastener Distributors
Association, New England Fastener Distributors
Association, North Coast Fastener Association, Pacific-
West Fastener Association, Southeast Fastener
Association, Southwest Fastener Distributors
Association, Women in the Fastener Industry, and Young
Fastener Professionals.
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
FASTENER INDUSTRY COALITION

74
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.
WHAT JUSTIFIES THE USE OF BLIND RIVETS?
Although blind rivets have been in use for numerous
years throughout the entire industry questions still
arise from time to time, as to why they are used and
the advantages of using them. I intend to answer these
questions and to prove that when correctly engineered
and installed, blind riveting is the most cost effective,
easiest mothed of jointing general application in the
market today.
Proven Product Design
Because blind rivets are installed from one side only
(hence blind) the need for access to both sides of the
work is not needed, so product design does not have to
have available both sides of the fastened joint.
Improved Design Strength
The use of only a single drilled or punched hole filled
effectively by the expandable high strength blind rivets,
offers a great increase in part design strength over
screws, bolts
Quicker Assembly
Blind riveting is faster than any other jointing method.
A hand held blind rivet setting tool can set a blind rivet in
a work application within one stroke of the power tool. For
extreme high volume blind rivet setting requirements there
are automatic blind rivet feeding and setting systems that
can set 50 blind rivets per minute.
Tooling
Because blind riveting is a simple process, blind rivet
setting tools can be designed to fit the application, rather
than making the design fit the tooling as it is done today.
Special nosepieces fit into narrow spaces, deep holes
and even right angle applications can be tooled for.
Lower Installation Costs
Adding up the lower tool costs, maintenance costs and
labor savings because of quicker assembly, blind rivets
are shown to be cheaper “in place” costs than screws,
bolts, nuts etc.
Lower Part Cost
Bind rivet costs are lower over other combinations of
fasteners.
Lower Inventory Cost
Because blind rivets have a wide grip range and are
single item attachments, inventory cost savings are
significant. Vary lengths grip ranges on washers or nonwasher
screws assembles etc. all add up to large parts
inventories. High volume of fewer parts on the other hand,
add up to dollars saved in not only piece price but in
warehouse and also labor and costs from purchasing to
the assembly line.
Effective Fastening Of Dissimilar Materials
The controlled expansion of blind rivets provides
uniform compression which in turn allows many types
of dissimilar material to be joined effectively. Metals to
plastic, plastic to plastic, glass to metal, paper to metal
are just a few of the possibilities. Various design features
on blind rivets allow for maximum load spreading for
joining even the softest materials.
CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE
CONTINUED ON PAGE 144

INTERNATIONAL FASTENERS, INC.
PUTTING MEMBERS FIRST
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
Did you know that the market size for group
purchasing organizations has grown faster than the
overall economy? This speaks to the fact that companies
are realizing the benefits of membership and working with
suppliers that are associated with them. The fastener
industry is no exception. Membership in the buying
groups and co-ops available to fastener distributors give
even small businesses a strong opportunity to remain
competitive against larger dealers and big box retail
options. Mostly known as a way to get best prices, it is
now also a way to get more product needed.
International Fasteners, Inc. has been a proud
supplier with several buying groups and cooperatives
for many years. In times like the present, it is
important to rely on these groups and cooperatives
and the relationships that have been fostered through
them. This holds true for both preferred suppliers and
members.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
Particularly in these trying times when inventory
allocation is crucial, companies like International
Fasteners, Inc. place great importance on serving the
members of these groups. At International Fasteners,
Inc., it is the members of these buying groups and
cooperatives that are taken care of first and foremost
whenever possible. They do their best to try and provide
members with what they need, when they need it, even
if they might be newer to the company’s distributorship.
It is because of these connections and relationships
that companies are able to survive and even grow
through these unforeseen circumstances. Not knowing
how long it will be until the economy returns to a stable
condition increases the need for and the importance of
finding these types of reliances.
If you are interested in partnering and growing with
a company that will put you first, make International
Fasteners, Inc. your choice today!
INTERNATIONAL FASTENERS, INC.

76
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
INDUSTRIAL FASTENERS INSTITUTE
6363 Oak Tree Boulevard, Independence, OH 44131
TEL 216-241-1482 FAX 216-241-5901 EMAIL info@indfast.org WEB www.indfast.org
IFI SOARING EAGLE AWARDS 2022
by Salim Brahimi
The Industrial Fasteners Institute (IFI) will recognize
the 2022 Soaring Eagle Award recipients at a special
celebration to be held during their 2022 Annual Meeting
in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on
March 15, 2022. The IFI Soaring
Eagle Service Award will be
presented to Michael Clark Friel,
CEO of Haydon Bolts, LLC and St.
Louis Screw & Bolt; and the IFI
Soaring Eagle Technology Award
will be presented to Kevin Menke
of Fastenal Company.
The 2022 Soaring Eagle
Service Award Recipient is
Mike Friel
The IFI Soaring Eagle Service
Award recognizes individuals who
have contributed outstanding
time and effort in the leadership
of the Industrial Fasteners
Institute and/or contributed
to the health and well-being of
the entire industrial fastener
industry.
In recognition of your many years of outstanding
service to the Institute as an active member, industry
advocate, committee chair, officer, and as Chairman of
MICHAEL CLARK FRIEL
2022 IFI SOARING EAGLE
SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENT
the Institute. Your accomplishments as an IFI member
are equally important to the work you have accomplished
outside the IFI on the industry’s behalf. Most notably,
your active participation on
ASTM Committees and your work
as a long-time member of the
Research Council on Structural
Connections (RCSC). This work
directly benefits all manufacturers
of structural bolting products and
will continue to do so for many
generations to come.
Your continuous influence in
leading IFI’s Publications &
Information Committee as
chairman and vice chairman
over several decades has helped
hone IFI’s image to customer
groups as the technical leader
of the fastener industry.
Furthermore, your involvement in
the publication and promotion
of multiple editions of the IFI
Book of Fastener Standards has
made a significant and lasting impact on IFI’s financial
stability, and in turn, on the Institute’s strength and
ability to effectively serve its members, the industry, and
its customers.
TECHNICAL ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 146

78
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
BEAR GRYLLS TO KEYNOTE STAFDA’S
SAN DIEGO MEETING by Georgia H. Foley, CEO
British extreme adventurer and wilderness survivalist,
Bear Grylls, will keynote the Specialty Tools & Fasteners
Distributors Association’s (STAFDA) upcoming San Diego
Convention & Trade Show, October 30 – November 1,
2022. Grylls will speak on Monday morning, October 31,
on Resilience & Overcoming Obstacles during STAFDA’s
General Session.
Grylls first drew attention after
embarking on a number of outdoor
adventures then became widely
known for his wilderness survival TV
shows in the United Kingdom and
America: The Island with Bear Grylls
and Running Wild with Bear Grylls.
For the latter, Grylls takes celebrities
and professional athletes on a twoday
trip into the wilderness where
he pushes the boundries on their
physical capabilities and mental
toughness.
The son of a British politician,
Edward “Bear” Grylls got the
nickname “Bear” from his sister a week after his birth.
From an early age, he learned to climb and sail with his
father. Then came skydiving and a second dan back
belt in Shotokan karate. After college, Grylls briefly
hiked in the Himalayan mountains of Sikkim and West
Bengal. From 1994-1997, he served in the Territorial
Army with 21 SAS as a trooper trained in, amongst other
things, unarmed combat, desert and winter warfare,
survival, climbing, parachuting, and explosives. Becoming
SHOW EVENT ARTICLE
a survival instructor, he was twice posted to North Africa.
His time in the SAS ended as a result of a free fall
parachuting accident in Kenya in 1996.
Some of Bear’s adventures include circumnavigating
the British Isles on jet skis; climbing one of the most
remote unclimbed peaks in Antarctica; setting a Parajet
paramotor record in the Himalayas near Mount Everest
where he looked down on the summit
while coping with temperatures of
-60 degree Celsius (-76 Fahrenheit);
in addition to summiting Mount
Everest at age 23, becoming one of
the youngest Britons to have done
so. Other adventures include the
world’s longest indoor freefall, an
open-air formal dinner party in a
hot-air balloon at 25,000 ft., and
a 5,700 nautical mile trek in an
ice-breaking, rigid-inflatable boat in
the ice strewn Northwest Passage.
The most notable thing about his
adventures is that they are all
attached to a charity. Whether it’s a children’s charity
(Global Angels), raising awareness of global warming, or
The Prince’s Trust, Bear always names a philanthropic
organization to benefit from his extreme physical tests.
Bear will not put any convention attendees to the
physical rigors he’s accustomed to, but his mental
toughness tips in a COVID-laden environment should
provide a refreshing and positive outlook on the world
today.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 148

3Q INC.
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 79
1707 Quincy Avenue, Unit #159, Naperville, IL 60540
TEL 630-405-8492 FAX 630-839-0990 EMAIL sales@3q-inc.com WEB www.3q-inc.com
PREMIER FASTENER SOURCING - BUY BETTER USING THE RMI PROGRAM
3Q, Inc.’s goal is to provide a single part number
solution with inventory programs to improve customer
service and profitability for the fastener distributor. Our
ability to partner with our distribution customers is the
first step to a successful relationship. We continue to
see increasing demands placed on distribution customers
and we are here to support these efforts. We know of
plenty “big box” suppliers that will do a great job shipping
standard product with their label, their box size, and
50 lb. cartons but as VMI programs have evolved the
“touches” have increased to satisfy the highly disciplined
VMI program structures of the OEM customers. Special
labels, special package quantities, carton weight limits,
special finishes are what makes 3Q, Inc. unique as a
premier fastener source for the fastener distributor.
Remote Managed Inventory Program
The 3Q, Inc. RMI program is the premier stocking
program for the fastener distributor looking for inventory
turns and risk reduction to provide the highest level of
customer service. We are thinking this would have been
something nice to have over the last 6-12 months with
delays in the global supply chain. We have the answer –
The 3Q, Inc. Remote Managed Inventory program.
Value Added Services
Secondary processes are nothing new to 3Q, Inc. Our
proven supply chain secondary processes allow 3Q, Inc.
to provide a complete single part number in the carton,
labeled and ready to ship to your customer. Our customers
enjoy reduced risk, no inventory loss and known cost with
overall reduction in handling soft cost. 3Q, Inc. is in the
Chicago area and has relationships with the absolute best
sources for plating, painting, coatings, sorting, drilling and
so much more. Reduce your handling, freight, and overall
cost on these types of fastener items with the 3Q, Inc.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
3Q INC

80
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
WORLDWIDEFASTENERSOURCES.COM, LLC
TEL 602-793-2383 EMAIL mmcguire@worldwidefastenersources.com
WEB www.worldwidefastenersources.com
FASTENER PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD
Mike McGuire, President of Worldwide Fastener Sources.
com is pleased to be the proud sponsor and to announce
the first recipient of the Fastener Person of the Year Award,
Tim O’Keeffe, President of G.L. Huyett, Minneapolis, KS.
The award is based on three major categories, Business
Accum, Business Culture and Charitable work. From the
time Tim and his wife Carol purchased the company in
1992, Tim has grown the business to be one of leading
Master Distributors in the American Fastener Industry. With
over 100,000 varied sizes, and types of fasteners and
accessories G.L. Huyett is well known for their depth and
breadth of product selection. Their commitment to service
and quality of product, and technology is second to none.
Tim strongly believes the Company has an obligation
to provide opportunities for its employees to grow and to
prosper and to take pride in their vocation. G.L. Huyett has
grown to be an initiative-taking entrepreneurial Company
with an interest in personal improvement, professional
development, and commitment to their community. Phrases
like “Way of Life” and Culture of Excellence are continually
communicated around the Company offices and warehouse.
Mr. O’Keeffe said it best, “To profitably exceed expectations
using three principals: Be Honest, Work Hard and Live by
the Golden Rule.”
G.L. Huyett Charities supplies the turkeys for the Annual
Salvation Army in Salina each Thanksgiving Day, and support
Love, Inc., an Ottawa County disadvantaged persons support
program; the Ottawa County Fair; and the Ottawa County
Community Foundation. 2018, Tim started the G.L. Huyett
Community Garden with the belief that life is about helping
others and serving humanity while becoming successful.
This gives life purpose and value and lends itself to a sense
of satisfaction, self-worth, and personal happiness. With
establishment of a culture guided by these principles and
being active in the community, G.L. Huyett employees are
rewarded by the experience of distributing the garden’s
harvest around the community, particularly to those in need.
Mike McGuire, commented, “With Tim being our first
winner he has set the standard and raised the bar to a new
height for future winners!”
WORLDWIDE FASTENER SOURCES.COM
BRIGHTON-BEST INTERNATIONAL
USA HEADQUARTERS 5855 Obispo Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90805
TEL 562-808-8000 FAX 562-808-8137 EMAIL sales@brightonbest.com WEB www.brightonbest.com
BBI NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
[January 14th, 2022] Kimberly Arnold, Branch
Manager of Brighton-Best International Cleveland has
been nominated and elected Secretary of the 2022
executive board of Women in the Fastener Industry (WIFI).
For more info about WIFI visit www.fastenerwomen.com.
[January 28th, 2022] The Mid-West Fastener
Distributors Association (MWFA) recently held their
annual scholarship dinner meeting recognizing this year’s
scholarship recipients. Congratulations to:
$2,500 SWD Inc. Scholarship
Madison Hunt, daughter of Tina
and George Hunt III of Brighton-Best
Int’l. Madison is a high school senior
planning to pursue her degree in
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
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.
$4,000 Brighton-Best International
Scholarship
Joshua Church, grandson of Barbara Newman of
Brighton-Best Int’l. 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.
BRIGHTON-BEST INTERNATIONAL

82
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
QUALITY FASTENERS
10507 N IH 35, San Antonio, TX 78233
TEL 210-656-2323 EMAIL info@qualityfasteners.com WEB www.qualityfasteners.com
THE ‘HARD-TO-FIND ITEM’ SPECIALISTS
by Dennis Cowhey, President, Computer Insights
Quality Fasteners is a family-owned and operated
company founded in 1982. They are dedicated to meeting
the needs of customers for quality products, outstanding
service, and competitive pricing. December 2022 will be
40 years that Quality Fasteners has been building a solid
reputation as a premier supplier and distributor of quality
fasteners, related hardware, and the tools their customers
need. They are ISO 9001:2015 Certified and offer nearly
30,000 items for a broad scope of applications. They take
pride in always keeping their inventory well-stocked and
having more metric and stainless steel than anyone else
in the area. Larry and Mark Matula explained, “We are
committed to stocking what people need and then some.
We listen to our customers and want to have what they
need when they need it at a fair price. It has created winwin
relationships over the years.”
A loyal, knowledgeable, and experienced staff ready
to assist you sets Quality Fasteners apart from their
competitors. If they don’t have the item you require
on hand; they can special-order it for you. They are
committed to developing and maintaining long-term
business relationships with their customers and suppliers
and always treat each individual they serve with honesty,
integrity, and respect.
New Larger Location
After years of planning, Quality Fasteners is now
operating in a new location three times the size of
the last location. The move came with its challenges,
but the additional space will better serve existing and
new customers. When I spoke to Larry Matula, he
was organizing the movement of one of his forklifts
and putting the final touches on things. He mentioned
that The Business Edge TM
software was part of the
transition,“...scanning capabilities helped tremendously
keeping track of our inventory, without it would have been
extremely difficult to manage a manual system letting us
know where everything was at as a company. The new,
more prominent location does not change their focus
on small business and their desire to collaborate with
people.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
CONTINUED ON PAGE 150

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 83
DTE Energy and All State Fastener,
a Roseville, Michigan based supplier, today
announced ASF’s enrollment in DTE’s
MIGreenPower program. MIGreenPower enables
DTE Electric customers to attribute more of
their energy use to renewable energy from the
company’s wind and solar parks and is now
one of the largest voluntary renewable energy
programs in the country. ASF has enrolled at
25% with plans to attribute 100% of its electricity
use to renewable energy in the near future. The
company’s current MIGreenPower commitment
has the environmental benefit equivalent to
avoiding the greenhouse gas emissions from
driving a passenger car 204,822 miles each
year.
Founded in 1963, ASF is a second-generation
family-owned business. The company supplies
automotive, construction, aerospace, and
medical industries and recently received the
General Motors Supplier of the Year Overdrive
Award. In addition to enrolling in MIGreenPower,
ASF has partnered with DTE to implement a
number of energy efficiency measures, which
are expected to result in savings of around
30-50% of the company’s total energy use.
These initiatives complement other steps ASF
has taken to reduce its environmental footprint,
such as minimizing paper, using electric forklifts
instead of gas, and a host of other programs.
“As a family business, an American company
headquartered in Michigan and a global supplier,
we are committed to protecting the environment
both here at home and abroad,” said Tony
Giorgio, president, All State Fastener. “As the
automotive industry continues to innovate, we
want to contribute to the industry’s efforts to
green its supply chain. DTE’s MIGreenPower
program is helping us reduce our impact on the
environment and meet our sustainability targets
and those of our customers.”
With its enrollment in MIGreenPower, ASF
is joining 35 industrial, 460 business and
more than 50,000 residential DTE Electric
customers who are supporting the development
of new wind and solar projects in Michigan.
In 2021, DTE increased its renewable energy
generation by 40%, adding three new wind parks and
one new solar park to source clean energy commitments
from MIGreenPower customers. commitments from
MIGreenPower customers. To date, MIGreenPower
customers have enrolled more than 1.8 million
megawatt hours of clean energy in the program,
which has the environmental benefit equivalent to
taking more than 277,400 passenger cars off the
road each year.*
“We’re proud of the impact MIGreenPower is
making to Michigan’s sustainable future,” said Brian
Calka, director, Renewable Solutions for DTE Energy.
“Every enrollment is bringing more renewable energy
to the grid, reducing carbon emissions and creating
a cleaner Michigan for everyone. We are excited to
welcome ASF to the program and partner with them
to meet their sustainability goals.”
For more information contact All State Fastener
Corporation by Tel: 586-773-5400 or visit them online
at www.allstatefastener.com.

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THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
FASCOMP ELECTRONIC HARDWARE
1235 Tradeport Drive, Orlando, FL 32824
TEL 407-226-2112 FAX 407-226-3370 EMAIL sales@fascomp.com WEB www.fascomp.com
FASCOMP CELEBRATES 20 YEARS….PLUS!
by Stan Lockhart
Fascomp, a leader in electronic
hardware surpassed the 20-year
mark last year while also celebrating
record growth in 2021. Management
utilized the business downturn during
2020 to increase their inventory
levels ahead of the rebound that we
all experienced last year. To protect
their workers during the pandemic
outbreak, Fascomp instituted some
extensive cleaning measures on all
equipment between shifts and took
additional steps toward worker safety that resulted in
increased production efficiencies. This not only saved
jobs, but also helped to increase inventory levels on
popular sizes and styles within their product mix. This
strategy has benefitted the company and customers
alike who have come to depend on Fascomp for quick
and friendly service!
Fascomp continues to increase manufacturing
capacity both in Connecticut and at their overseas
facilities to support their extensive offering of standoffs,
spacers, shoulder screws, captive screws and thumb
screws, accounting for 75,000 SKU’s. In addition to
their standard products, sales of blue-print specials now
account for 30% of the company’s overall sales volume.
Machined panel nuts, socket head captive screws and
ball studs will further expand their customer reach
and open new end-user markets that are serviced by
fastener distributors. Capitalizing on their strong market
presence, the owners, Mark Georgia and Jason Bertone
believe in educating their customers and have created
FASCOMP EMPLOYEES AT THEIR 2021 CHRISTMAS PARTY
“Fascomp University” a power point presentation that
helps orient sales, engineering and sourcing specialists
to applications within the markets that utilize electronic
hardware.
The company is actively hiring additional office and
warehouse staff to keep their service levels high during
this continued period of business expansion. Erica Kail,
the General Manager of the Orlando office has been with
Fascomp since 2015 and oversees various positions
while handling customer service and coordinating
activities with the Connecticut manufacturing facility. A
full product catalog is available online and they offer joint
marketing initiatives.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
FASCOMP

86
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
The NEFCO Corporation,
a leading partner to the
construction trades has
opened a new location
in Westbrook, Maine to
further support and service
professional contractor
trades throughout Maine.
This is NEFCO’s first
location to open in Maine
and sixteenth branch
overall. Deliveries from
the location will begin
immediately and the
showroom will open in
early February.
The new Maine
location at 7 Thomas
Drive, Westbrook, ME will
provide customers with
access to local inventories
and enhanced services.
This 14,250 square foot
location will include a
state-of-the-art showroom
for walk-in customers and
an extensive inventory,
including SHARP® –
Strut channel, Hardware,
Anchors, Rod and Pipe
hangers — as well as a
broad mix of power tools,
safety equipment, and
general jobsite supplies.
“NEFCO has established
a great customer base in
Maine and our new location
will greatly enhance our
local product offering
and service levels,” said
NEFCO’s CEO David Gelles
For more information,
contact NEFCO Corporation
by Tel: 1-800-969-0285,
Email: Inquiries@nefcocorp.
com or visit them online at
www.gonefco.com.

AFC Industries has
acquired Tigard, OR based
Oregon Bolt, Inc. (OBI) at
the end of 2021. Terms of
the deal were not disclosed.
Founded in 2003, OBI
is a large, locally owned
and operated supplier
of industrial fasteners
and electronic hardware
specializing in vendor
managed inventory (VMI)
and servicing customers in
the Pacific Northwest.
AFC CEO Kevin Godin said,
“We are pleased to have the
Oregon Bolt team as part
of the AFC family. As part
of our expansion strategy
in the western U.S., we
were looking for a partner
in the Oregon market that
had an excellent reputation
for servicing customers and
a solid team. Oregon Bolt
checks all those boxes as
well as helping to deepen
product capabilities within
AFC that we expect will
contribute to growth in the
coming years.”
Former OBI owners Ron
and Beverly Tiedemann
added: “It was important
for us to find a partner
who would support us
in providing excellent
service to our customers
and opportunities to our
team. The culture and
resources of AFC will open
up additional opportunities
for our team to grow and be
successful.”
For more information about
AFC Industries visit them online
at www.afcind.com.
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 87

88
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
NATIONAL FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION
3020 Old Ranch Parkway #300, Seal Beach CA 90740
TEL 562-799-5509 FAX 562-684-0695 EMAIL nfda@nfda-fasteners.org WEB www.nfda-fasteners.org
EXECUTIVE SALES PLANNING SESSIONS ®
RETURN
JUNE 21-23 IN MINNEAPOLIS by Amy Nijjar
Executive Sales Planning Sessions ®
Save the date now for one of the best business
meetings of the year. NFDA’s popular Executive Sales
Planning Sessions® will take place June 21-23, 2022,
at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown.
During the Executive Sales Planning Sessions
(ESPS®), you’ll schedule private, one-on-one business
meetings with the partners who are most important to
your business strategy. It’s not as rushed as speeddating,
but the principles are similar, allowing you to
meet with several people in 1.5 days, without having to
travel to multiple destinations.
How ESPS® Works
¤ NFDA Associate and Service Provider members
book rooms at the Embassy Suites in order to host
private appointments. Only NFDA members are eligible
to be ESPS® hosts.
¤ Registered meeting attendees book appointments
in advance with the hosts of their choice by using our
new online scheduling tool.
¤ The schedule can accommodate up to thirteen
25-minute appointments on Wednesday, June 22 and
seven 25-minute appointments on Thursday, June 23.
¤ Designed to facilitate executive-level interchange
between trading partners, ESPS® gives you the greatest
amount of visibility and provides scheduling flexibility
with the most companies in a single location.
Education
The NFDA 2022 Annual Meeting also will feature
compelling education programs.
¤ Economic update from ITR Economics.
¤ State of the Industry Panel
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
NFDA Awards Scholarship for Fastener
Training Week
The National Fastener Distributors Association
(NFDA) recently awarded a scholarship for Fastener
Training Week, an advanced fastener technical training
program produced by the Fastener Training Institute,
to Teja Jampani, a quality engineer for Specialty Bolt
& Screw. The scholarship was sponsored by Brighton
Best International.
Scholarship applicants were evaluated based on
the recommendations from their employers, personal
achievements, work experience, and an essay.
Identifying information was redacted, so that the team
evaluating the applications did not know the names or
employers of those applying.
The next deadline to apply for an NFDA Fastener
Training Week scholarship is June 1. The application
can be found at https://www.nfda-fastener.org/
fastener-training-week-scholarship
For more information about Fastener Training
Week, visit www.fastenertraining.org
Young Fastener Professionals (YFP)
Looking for Volunteers
Are you interested in donating your time and
energy to the Young Fastener Professionals? The YFP
Board is currently laying the groundwork to provide
YFP involvement and support to all areas of the
industry.
If you are interested in volunteering, mentoring, or
being added to the YFP email list, please reach out to
Amy Nijjar at amy@nfda-fastener.org.
NATIONAL FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION

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90
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
U.S. ANCHOR
A BRIGHTON-BEST
INTERNATIONAL COMPANY
5855 Obispo Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90805
TEL 562-808-8000 EMAIL sales@brightonbest.com WEB www.brightonbest.com
STRONG CUSTOMER SATISFACTION THROUGH TESTING,
APPROVALS & COMMITMENT by Jim Hahn, U.S. Anchor Product Manager
Since 1985, the U.S. Anchor product line, from
Brighton-Best International, has consistently supplied
distributors and end users with high-quality Lite,
Medium and Heavy-Duty anchoring systems.
As the anchoring business has matured over time,
new products have been added to the U.S. Anchor
line up to meet the demands required on jobsites and
industrial facilities. This growth is due to a commitment
to invest in product testing to meet and exceed strict
industry standards. These new products deliver better
performance and improved ease of installation.
In today’s pandemic environment there has been
more pressure for manufacturers to meet the growing
demand of the marketplace. These demands are
mostly centered upon supply chain issues. Distributors
and users are seeking high fill rates that aid in their
planning process. BBI has consistently delivered high
fill rates of U.S. Anchor products from 21 regional
warehouses.
Product Testing & Approvals
Product approvals have become a requirement
in today’s construction environment. These approvals
emanate from industry code committees via consensus
agreements. The primary code committees A.S.T.M.
and I.C.I. establish new testing criteria for third party
testing laboratory protocols. Once established, the main
evaluation and approval agencies adopt the testing
protocols as part of their overall certification process.
Examples include ICC-ES and Miami Dade County.
Manufacturers today strive to design and engineer
anchoring products to meet or exceed the established
criteria conducted by the third party testing laboratories.
Once the results of the testing is evaluated for compliance,
they are published to the industry. Distributors can sell
and market these approved anchoring products with
confidence resting
on quality assurance
from independent
evaluation oversight.
To better serve U.S.
Anchor customers,
BBI has made significant financial investments in these
important areas.
Product Line Profiles
HEAVY DUTY ANCHORS
The two main areas of anchor industry development
and expansion are centered upon the heavier duty wedge
and concrete screw product lines. These anchoring
designs are typically specified when pull-out, shear and
edge & spacing criteria is paramount.
The Ultrawedge+, our flagship wedge anchor, has
been manufactured at the same factory since 1996,
while the Tapking HD is highly engineered, with strict
inspection, bi-annually through independent auditors.
As a result of code committee oversight and analysis,
changes to testing criteria has mandated improved
anchor design and performance. The main change in the
past 15 years has been ‘cracked concrete’. This has had
a profound effect on anchor design and ability to perform
under critical field conditions.
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 152

94
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
SANTA HELPS MWFA CELEBRATE HOLIDAYS
By Nancy Rich
Part of the industry’s Holiday tradition, for many, is
attending the MWFA Holiday party. The MWFA wanted to
be sure to take the opportunity to visit with industry peers
and collect Toys for Tots. The attendees donated a great
deal of toys as well as almost $2,000 in cash for Toys for
Tots. It’s very gratifying to see the attendees arriving with
armloads of toys!
Santa was present checking his naughty or nice
list. He couldn’t find any on the naughty list, so he
stayed and enjoyed visiting and taking photos with the
guests. Several guests also won raffle prizes donated
by members and the MWFA. Who doesn’t like an extra
present at the holidays! All this added to music, cocktails
and appetizers made for a festive evening. We thank
everyone for an awesome year and look forward to sharing
another great year with our members and industry.
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
2022 Event Schedule
April 14 Economic Forecast and Update
Dinner Meeting
Belvedere Banquets, Elk Grove, IL
April 28 Heat Treat/Plating Seminar/Plant Tours
Morgan Ohare, & SWD, Addison, IL
May 26 Still Screwed Up Open
White Pines Golf Course, Bensenville, IL
August 21-26 FSTNR Week
August 21 Sleep in Heavenly Peace - Build a Bed
August 23 Safeguards for Buying Import/Domestic
Manufactured Fasteners Seminar
MWFA Fastener Show
Oak Brook Hills Resort, Oak Brook, IL
August 24 Golf Outing Willow Crest Golf Club
Oak Brook Hills Resort, Oak Brook, IL
August 25 MWFA Mixer
Real Time Sports, Elk Grove, IL
August 22-26 Fastener Training Week
Fastener Training Institute
November 3 Scholarship Awards & Elections
Belvedere Banquets, Elk Grove, IL
December 8 Holiday Party
Medinah Banquets, Addison, IL
Check www.mwfa.net for more dates and details.
MWFA Welcomes New Members
¤ Cavanaugh Government Group, LLC - Bridgeview, IL
¤ Heico Fasteners - Hickory, NC
¤ Impact Tool Supply - Woonsocket, RI
¤ Industrial Fasteners Institute - Independence, OH
¤ Parker Fasteners - Buckeye, AZ
¤ Prestige Stamping - Warren, MI
¤ Tru-Pack - Richland Center, WI
¤ Ventura Industrial Products - Macedonia, OH
¤ Wisconsin Stamping & Mfg. - Germantown, WI
MID-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION

MID-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION
HOLIDAY PARTY 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 131

96
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
LAURENCE CLAUS HOT FORGING FASTENERS from page 8
and another exists is known as the Recrystallization
Temperature or Critical Temperature. When a part is
heated to a temperature below this inflection point, it is
considered to be warm forming. When it is heated above
this inflection point, it is considered hot forming. This
is important because, although the higher temperature
makes it easier to form, it might trigger a full or partial
crystal rearrangement that is undesirable in the finished
part and must be addressed in a separate post forming
process.
FIGURE 2: BLANKS TRANSFERRING ACROSS MULTIPLE DIE STATIONS
Most everyday fasteners are formed cold, meaning
that the raw material enters the forming machine at
room temperature. The ability to actually form the part
becomes a function of machine capability and raw
material formability. In fact, manufacturers that utilize
cold forming processes pay a premium to buy raw
material that is especially formable. However, not all
fasteners can be formed cold. Some parts require heat
to be added to improve their chances of successful
forming. When this occurs the manufacturer is now
performing a warm or hot forming process.
There is a fine but very important difference between
warm and hot forming. Metals are crystals. This means
that their atomic structure exists in an organized and
repeated manner. When exposed to certain conditions,
such as reaching a specific temperature, the atoms will
rearrange themselves into a new crystal arrangement. It is
these different crystal arrangements that partially define
the properties a metal will exhibit. The temperature where
an inflection point between one crystal arrangement
When Are Parts Warm Or Hot Formed?
Although the addition of heat helps forming, most
fasteners do not need it. Heat is added when the parts
start to get too big for the available equipment to handle
them cold or when certain hard-to-form materials are
utilized.
There is no hard and fast rule regarding size, but
generally when thread sizes start to reach the 1-3/4” to
1-1/2” diameter they begin to exceed machine capability
for cold forming. Therefore, large diameter fasteners are
mostly hot formed or machined.
In addition to size, the formability of the fastener
material plays an important role. Carbon and Alloy
Steels form well and, within the constraints of typical
cold forming equipment, hardly ever require added
heat. Other materials, however, such as some stainless
steels, titanium, and many of the nickel alloys work
harden very quickly and cannot be formed cold. Added
heat is required to successfully form these materials.
The appropriate temperature to use depends on each
specific material. For example, titanium fasteners are
usually warmed formed at temperatures approximating
800°F rather than hot formed at 1600°-1800°F. The
reason for this is that at temperatures about 1000°F
in open atmospheric conditions, Titanium forms a
deleterious oxygen-rich scale known as Alpha-Case.
Manufacturers strike a balance, therefore, and give
up some forming improvement to prevent Alpha-case
formation which can be extremely difficult to remove
once formed.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 154

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98
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
ROB LaPOINTE FASTENER SCIENCE: HOW TIGHT IS RIGHT TIGHT? from page 10
FIGURE 2 SKIDMORE WILHELM BOLT TENSION CALIBRATOR.
Typically, the correct tension for fasteners is
somewhere between 50 – 80 % of the fastener’s ultimate
tensile strength. This amount of tension stretches the
fastener enough so that it holds the joint securely
and can accommodate additional loads added by the
application without overloading the fastener. For example,
applications may add cyclical loading or vibration to the
fastener, both adding to and subtracting from the load
applied by tightening the fastener. The fastener must
have enough springiness to accommodate a lower load
without loosening and a higher load without breaking. A
fastener’s springiness is provided to it by tensioning it.
Fortunately, there are many ways of quantitively measuring
the tension in a fastener. These include direct tension
measurement devices, tension indicating devices, fastener
length measurement while under tension, and using an
established torque-tension relationship. I’ll briefly expand
on each of these below.
Instruments that directly measure tension in a fastener,
such as in a Skidmore Bolt Tension Calibrator (Figure 2) or
similar device are the most direct way of knowing tension
in a fastener. However, most of the time, these types
of tension measuring instruments will not measure the
tension of the fastener when it’s tightened in an application,
but only when tightened in the instrument. This doesn’t do
us much good if we need to measure a fastener’s tension
while installed. There
are small in-line load
measuring instruments
that could be placed
in an installation, but
this is not typical due
to the cost of such
instruments and the
need for them to be
designed into the
application.
There are other devices available such as direct
tension indicating (DTI) washers (Figure 3 and 4) that are
calibrated to show a bolt has a specific tension when the
washer is compressed a specific distance. This is not a
direct measurement as alluded to by the name, but an
indirect indication of tension. There are other analogous
devices such as squirting washers where cells filled with
colored paint pop at a specified tension and indicate the
tension in the joint. One downside of this method is that
although they provide evidence that the joint was, at one
time, tensioned correctly, they do not indicate if the joint
had loosened since being correctly tensioned.
The tension in a fastener can also be known indirectly
by measuring the length of the fastener while under
tension and comparing that to its length while not under
tension. Using this method, we’re measuring the amount
that the fastener stretches when placed in tension.
There is an established connection between the tension
a fastener exerts and the amount of stretch that causes
that tension.
FIGURE 3 DIRECT TENSION
INDICATING (DTI) WASHER
FIGURE 4 MEASURING THE DISTANCE BETWEEN A DTI WASHER AND
A HARDENED WASHER TO DETERMINE BOLT TENSION.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 158

100
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
CHRIS DONNELL 2022 TRANSPORTATION AND SUPPLY CHAIN OUTLOOK from page 12
International Carrier Information
[a] Ocean freight rates from the Pacific Rim, South
East Asia and the Indian Subcontinent will continue to
hold steady for most of the year as equipment shortages,
blank sailings and port bottlenecks continue. Importers
can expect rates to slightly dip and rebound quite often
and this should be the case of the next 2-3 months. As
we enter the new shipping season, (May 1st) importers
should anticipate a spike in ocean costs and those
costs remain elevated until mid to late September due
increased demand from big box retailers gearing up for the
holidays. Going into the winter months importers should
see a gradual rate reduction, some anticipate rates much
lower than where we are today but in discussions with the
ocean carriers, they have little to no intension to reduce
rates to pre-pandemic levels any time soon.
[b] Ocean rates from Europe, the Middle East and
Africa are holding but are still running around a third less
than what we are all seeing from China. With Europe, the
issues are more of a lack of equipment and truckers which
is due in large part to Covid related trade restrictions and
other mandates. For Cargo originating from the Far East to
Europe, we’re seeing pricing that resembles that of cargo
to the United States.
[c] USA exports are surging but they are struggling
to get loaded as ocean carriers are more focused on
imports, emptying vessels, and moving onto the next
port of call, often leaving exports and empty return
containers behind. In some ports, the port authority is
now imposing surcharges on ocean carriers for empty
containers sitting.
[d] Blank or Void sailings continue. For those who
aren’t familiar with blank sailings, it is where the ocean
carriers decide to park a vessel for a week or so before it’s
loaded. The carriers say this is due to congestion issues
on the west coast and the average number of vessels
they have allocated to their specific service schedule.
In short, there are too many vessels sitting outside our
ports and the carriers aren’t willing to load more vessels
until those at our ports disembark and head back to the
origin. However, what I see is equipment congestion at the
origin which allows carriers to create a stronger demand
for future sailings, thus allowing the carriers to hold their
rates at the elevated costs seen today.
[e] Air Import rates from the Far East remain strong
and will continue in their current range until the summer
months at least. The reasoning behind the elevated rates
is due in large part to the surge in demand as importers
switch from ocean freight to air, as well as the travel
restrictions at the origin due to Covid. Something to keep
in mind - many carriers are still only utilizing a quarter of
their true capacity to the United States and back. Once
the restrictions are lifted, we should see capacity open
and rates start to decline.
[f] Air Import rates from Europe are stable and
trending in the right direction; importers are seeing rates
at about the half the price of those coming from the Far
East to the United States.
[g] Ports in the US continue to struggle. Ports like
Los Angeles and Long Beach have about 100 vessels
sitting off the coast waiting to be berthed. Savannah
and Charleston on the East Coast are seeing their total
number of vessels awaiting to be berthed increase;
Savannah now has more than 30 vessels in queue.
[h] Ocean terminals (where containers are picked
up and returned – portside) in places like Los Angeles,
Long Beach and Seattle have run out of room which has
resulted in their not accepting empty container returns.
Many importers feel this is not their problem; they have
their cargo, it’s empty and out of their hands. While the
ocean carriers have been known to mitigate or remove
the storage charges as long as there is proof the trucker
tried to return the container but was refused, they are still
moving forward in invoicing it; make sure your forwarder,
logistics provider is fighting the carriers for you. What
importers need to understand though is that these
containers, although undeliverable are on a chassis and
until they are able to return that container the chassis is
still racking up costs daily, this falls on the hands of the
importer.
[i] Ocean terminals announce Empty Container
Dwell fees which coincides with the Emergency Container
Excess fees. However, the Empty Container Dwell
fees focuses on the empty containers the carriers are
harboring at the terminals without moving. While the
Container Excess Fees never really took off, the terminals
are now demanding that carriers take responsibility
or face stiff penalties for empty containers taking up
valuable dock space. As of the date of this article the
ocean carriers haven’t announced how they will proceed,
but it wouldn’t surprise me if they pass along the fees to
their customers
CONTINUED ON PAGE 160

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102
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
JOE DYSART AI PERSONALIZED NEWSLETTERS: HOW FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS CAN DEEPEN CUSTOMER LOYALTY from page 14
¤ Other business marketing content the reader
engages with on your business’ Web site, social media
properties and other digital properties
Ultimately, the number of personal data points a
fastener distributor can study and use as triggers to shape
content on a case-by-case basis is virtually unlimited.
Essentially: If you can imagine a personal data point
you want to track -- and a way to track it -- you can add that
tracking to your newsletter’s AI personalization mix.
Moreover, while AI’s ability to automatically track personal
data points is legendary, fastener distributors sending
personalized newsletters have
also found you can capture
even more data the oldfashioned
way -- using surveys,
online forms and/or Q&A’s
between a company chatbot
and your customer.
Jeeng, for example,
found in its study that 76% of
customers are willing to fillout
a short company survey
-- as long as they’re promised
more personalized marketing
content from the company.
The upshot: At the end of
the day, the number of data
points your business can
track and analyze is really
only limited by what you’re
willing to pay each customer
for that data. The question
becomes: If my customer will
part with a bit of data for
free, can I snare an additional
motherlode of personal data points if I promise a $10,
$20 or $50 gift card in exchange -- or some other
compensation.
Once you begin shopping for AI-powered personalized
newsletter software, fastener distributors will find that
many of the solutions are designed to integrate with
commonly used software services like Salesforce,
Mailchimp and Hubspot.
And many other solutions can be integrated with
less commonly used software packages using automated
integration solutions from providers like Zapier (www.zapier.
com), Automate.io (www.automate.io) and Microsoft Power
EACH CUSTOMER OFFERS A MOTHERLODE OF DATA YOU
CAN TRACK TO HELP PERSONALIZE YOUR FASTENER
DISTRIBUTOR NEWSLETTER
SOMETIMES OVERLOOKED, THE TRADITIONAL SURVEY --
WITH A REWARD FOR COMPLETION -- IS ONE OF THE MOST
EFFECTIVE WAYS TO BUILD AN IN-DEPTH, PERSONALIZED
DATA FILE ON EACH CUSTOMER
Automate (www.powerautomate.microsoft.com/en-us).
A good industry standard email solution to check-out
to use as a benchmark against competitors is Ras.io
(www.rasa.io).
An early player in AI-personalized newsletters, Ras.
io’s software tracks every item a subscriber clicks on when
interacting with your newsletter and continually provides
content that more closely matches those interests with
each subsequent newsletter from you.
For content, the software grabs news and info for your
newsletter from the Web, repackages it and then combines
it with any original content you
might also like to include.
Ras.io also enables
fastener distributors to design
any newsletter it manages for
you with your company colors,
fonts, layout and similar
design features.
Of course, Ras.io also
realizes you may want to
send at least some of the
same content to every reader
you’re marketing to with your
personalized newsletter. So it
enables you to reserve space
for say three-out-of-ten articles
in your newsletter that are
applicable to every reader in a
general way.
Here’s a representative
sampling of Ras.io’s competitors
that also offer personalized
newsletter services fastener
distributors can use:
¤ MarketTraq Email (www.markettraq.com/features).
This newsletter personalization service is worth a click
simply because it offers one of the most detailed, blowby-blow
rundowns on how they’ll personalize a newsletter
for you.
Like others competitors, MarketTraq studies readers’
interaction with your newsletter content and makes
adjustments based on the content those readers most favor.
Its service is based on what it calls M-Blocks --
technology that changes any image, article copy, headline
or formatting for your newsletter on a subscriber-bysubscriber
basis.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 148

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 103
Eurolink Fastener
Supply Service is pleased
to announce the recruitment
of Osbaldo Ramos as its new
Inside Sales Representative.
Osbaldo has been working in
the fastener industry for more
than 20 years, where he’s
specialized in complex
automotive fasteners, however
Eurolink will be a new challenge
for him in the non-Automotive all
metric world.
Osbaldo was born in
California but moved to Chicago
at a young age, then he and his
family made the move to South
Carolina 3 years ago. Osbaldo
has been married to Nelly for
more than 23 years now and
has 2 daughters, Kayla and
Kamila.
Eurolink is the premier
US distributor of metric
fasteners and specializes in
complimenting and extending
your basic fastener lines with
hard-to-find metric fasteners
manufactured to both DIN
and ISO standards. Eurolink
offers access to more than
100,000 quality C-class parts
- regardless of your required
size, material, or finish, Eurolink
has the European resources to
meet your demands.
For further information
contact Eurolink Fastener Supply
Service by Tel: 864-801-0505,
Email: sales@eurolinkfss.com or
online at www.eurolinkfss.com.

104
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
FCH OPTIMIZE YOUR FCH LISTINGS from page 24
“FCH SOURCING NETWORK SERVES THE FASTENER INDUSTRY WITH A STRONG FLOW OF USERS SEARCHING FOR PARTS.
MAKE SURE YOUR INVENTORY LISTINGS ARE OPTIMIZED FOR MAXIMUM SALES.”
Include Pricing Or Not?
We know that pricing information can help generate
more inquires, but the fact is that the vast majority of
FCH members chose not to include this information.
They like to qualify buyers before discussing price. With
that in mind, some members have had very good results
when they show blow-out pricing on parts they’d really
like to move. Showing pricing info can help.
Don’t Over Complicate It
Simple is often the best. When in doubt about
how to format the inventory spreadsheet you want to
upload, let our Scrubber software do the work for you. If
you find the software incorrectly identifies some of your
parts from your descriptions, we can usually resolve the
problem for you globally with a quick fix that also will
make future uploads even easier. Remember that even
AI learns by making mistakes!
Call Us
We enjoy talking to our members, and we learn a
lot about the fastener business as we try to help FCH
members fine tune their listings. Sometimes a few small
tweaks to descriptions can add extra clicks, and we’re
always glad to take a look with you to see if you’re
missing opportunities.
Conclusion
The best tip is to get your parts listed with FCH
Sourcing Network if you haven’t already! You will be
part of a strong network of North American fastener
distributors who are constantly on the hunt for parts.
With a little effort and a bit of experimentation, you can
maximize the effectiveness of your listings.
Contact Eric Dudas at FCH Sourcing Network by Tel:
877-332-7836, Email: eric@fastenersclearinghouse.com
or online at www.fastenersclearinghouse.com.
FCH SOURCING NETWORK

106
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
FASTENER FAIR USA SEE YOU IN DETROIT! JOIN FASTENER FAIR USA - MAY 17-19, 2022 from page 26
On May 19, IFI (the Industrial Fastener Institute) will
feature an Ask the Expert Panel, moderated and lead
by Dr. Salim Brahimi P.Eng., Ph.D with panelists including
Laurence Claus, President of NNi Training and Consulting,
Inc., Carmen Vertullo, VP, AIM Testing Laboratory, John
Medcalf, Principal Engineer of Peak Innovations Engineering.
The session will be held on the show floor technical stage,
beginning at 11:00 AM. In true “Ask the Expert” fashion,
an open discussion is welcome, with questions and topic
discussions to be fueled by audience members.
¤ Networking is the top reason attendees come to
Fastener Fair USA. From happy hours to lead generating
discussions—it’s a can’t-miss event for 2022. This year, the
Opening Night Networking Party will honor Motor City—taking
place at the GM Center, Wintergarden Event Space on May
18 at 5:15 PM. All attendees and exhibitors are welcome.
About Fastener Fair USA
Fastener Fair USA is North America’s fastest-growing
trade show and conference event for the fastener industry
and the manufacturing sectors it serves. Under new
management by Reed Exhibitions, this dynamic and
productive, this two-day event serves as an important
marketplace drawing fastener professionals from every
segment and all around the world.
About RX
RX is in the business of building businesses for
individuals, communities and organizations. We elevate
the power of face to face events by combining data and
digital products to help customers learn about markets,
source products and complete transactions at over 400
events in 22 countries across 43 industry sectors. RX
is passionate about making a positive impact on society
and is fully committed to creating an inclusive work
environment for all our people. RX is part of RELX, a global
provider of information-based analytics and decision tools
for professional and business customers.
¤ NEW! Speed Networking at Fastener Fair
USA After success at the Fastener Fair Mexico event
in 2019, the Speed Networking Program is coming to
Detroit! Exhibitors and attendees will be personally
and conveniently be matched with appointments to
network in the Speed Networking lounge on the show
floor. Participants will have their meetings pre-set using
appointment setting technology and meet with 10-15
exhibitors over the course of the session.
Interested in participating? Reach out to MJ McGrath,
Marketing Director at mj.mcgrath@rxglobal.com.
¤ Hotel & Travel Discounts - Book your hotel stay
in Detroit at a discounted rate through the Fastener Fair
USA official housing partner, Connections Housing. Only
here can you find the best rates in the city.
Register now to join us in Detroit! Visit us online at
www.FastenerFairUSA2022.com/DistributorsLink.
FASTENER FAIR USA

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 107

108
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
LARRY BOROWSKI GAGING SYSTEMS - PART 2: SYSTEM 22 from page 28
Minimum Material (Pitch Diameter, Groove
Diameter)
Note: Not Go functional diameter is another option
(i.e. nogo plug gage), but control of lead (including helix)
and Flank Angle (over the length of the full thread) must
also be demonstrated. This option is only acceptable by
agreement between purchaser and supplier.
¤ Thread Snap gages, minimum material, pitch
diameter type (cone and vee), or groove diameter
type (cone only).
¤ Thread indicating gages, minimum material, pitch
diameter type (cone and vee) with either 120 or
180 degree contact points.
¤ Thread indicating gages, minimum material, thread
groove diameter type (cone or best wire size radius
profile) with either 120 or 180 degree contact points.
¤ Pitch Micrometer with Modified Contacts
(approximately pitch diameter contact) Cone and Vee.
¤ Thread Measuring wires with suitable fixturing
¤ Optical Comparator and Toolmaker’s microscope
with suitable fixturing
¤ Linear Measuring Machine with required accessories
¤ Coordinate Measuring Machine with required
accessories.
Note: You are evaluating the Minimum Pitch Diameter
by isolating a single thread at a time and using either cone
and vee contacts or a radiused contact that simulates
“best wire”. Simple Pitch Diameter has also been used to
describe this feature. An actual value is required for this
characteristic.
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. Major Diameter is another
feature in system 22 inspection/evaluation, that can be
done using a fixed limit gage.
Minor Diameter (rounded root – UNJ, MJ only)
¤ Minor Diameter Snap Gage
¤ Maximum and Minimum minor diameter Snap gage
¤ Minor Diameter Indicating Gage
¤ Optical Comparator and tool makers microscope
with suitable fixturing
¤ Linear Measuring Machine with required accessories
¤ Coordinate Measuring Machine with required
accessories
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.
Root Profile (UNJ, MJ only)
¤ Optical Comparator and tool makers microscope
with suitable fixturing
¤ Profile Tracing equipment with suitable fixturing
¤ Coordinate Measuring Machine with required
accessories.
Major Diameter
¤ Maximum (Go) and Minimum (Not Go) Plain
Cylindrical ring gages for Major Diameter.
¤ Major Diameter Snap Gage
¤ Maximum and Minimum major diameter snap gage
¤ Indicating Plain Diameter gages, Major Diameter type
¤ Optical Comparator and tool makers microscope
with suitable fixturing
¤ Plain Micrometer and Calipers
¤ Linear Measuring Machine with required accessories
¤ Coordinate Measuring Machine with required
accessories
TYPICAL EXTERNAL VARIABLE THREAD GAGE – “TRI-ROLL” GAGE
CONTINUED ON PAGE 162

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 109
Suncor Stainless announces the launch of a
new line of Forged Shackles. These new shackles
are forged, resulting in better fatigue strength for
a longer product life, a higher strength due to the
manufacturing process, and a harder material for
better wear.
The new line of Forged Shackles is made from
grade 316 stainless steel for maximum corrosion
resistance and durability, making it ideal for even the
harshest marine and industrial environments. Forged
Shackles are suitable for lifting, if the specified
working load limits (WLLs) are strictly adhered to.
The WLLs for the Forged Shackle Series range from
500 lbs. to 5,500 lbs. (227 kg – 2,495 kg). With
matching shackle body and pin diameters for a
uniform design, the new shackles give you the option
to choose from two shackle body styles: Forged Bow
Shackle Body or “D” Shape Shackle Body, and two
pin types; Forged precision threaded Screw Pin or a
Bolt with Nut and Cotter Pin. Shackles range in size
from 3/16” to 3/4”and are great for general use in
applications where stainless steel is desired.
“The new forged shackle series is a key
component used in our PullPro pulley block
program. We wanted to satisfy our customers’
demands and offer them the option to also utilize the
new forged shackles as a stand-alone component.”
states Patrick Striebel, President
The new forged shackle series is a key component
used in the new PullPro pulley block program.
Suncor Stainless, Inc. is a leading manufacturer
for stainless steel hardware in the industrial, marine,
government, architectural, OEM and commercial
industries. Suncor’s modern facilities manufacture
the highest quality stainless steel chain, wire
rope assemblies and custom parts. The in-house
capabilities include a product development staff
whose tireless efforts, along with valuable input
from clients, work to continuously improve and
perfect their ever-expanding product line.
For more information contact Suncor Stainless
by Tel: 1-800-218-7702, Fax: 508-732-9798, Email:
info@suncorstainless.com or visit them online at
www.suncorstainless.com.

110
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
BRUNO MARBACHER DRIVING SYSTEMS FOR FASTENERS – TAMPERPROOF DRIVES from page 30
For high security applications, a premium security
screw is the best option. These have a more complex
drive design and are installed and removed using a
special, traceable tool.
There are various “tamper proof levels”. Several
screws are protective enough to deter casual meddling,
others are almost impossible to remove without a
specialized tool. “One way” security screws are designed
to prevent them from being loosened at all, they are best
for fastening, where typically no maintenance is needed.
The following warning or similar could be found in
product instruction manuals or on labels attached to the
product: “Do not attempt to take this product apart,
ensure that a qualified professional is sought,
opening the product could result in electric shock.”
Some typical tamper proof screws (drives) include:
A One-Way Slotted Drive
One-way screws are special
screws that can be turned in
one direction only. They are
sometimes called one-way
clutch screws but should
not be confused with true
“clutch” screws. They can
be installed with a standard
blade screwdriver but cannot
be easily removed using standard tools. One-way screws
are commonly used in commercial restroom fixtures and
on vehicle registration plates, to prevent vandals from
tampering with them.
One-way screws are practical only when the need for
removal is not likely. They are difficult to remove with
conventional tools because the slot is designed to cause
cam-out, when even a low torque is applied in the direction
to loosen it. The head can be manipulated with a tool
and thus be removed, recessing the head will eliminate
most of the tampering options. However, there are tools
available to unscrew them.
Pin Hex Head Screws
Pin Hex head screws:
Conventional socket screws
have a hexagonal recess, with
a pin inserted in the middle of
the hex drive the one-way screw
remover it requires a special tool to install and remove
them. Tools can be purchased relatively easily, thus
allowing for tampering. A pentagon recess is more secure.
Pin Torx (6 Lobe Pin Security Screws)
Pin Torx or 6-Lobe Pin TX
screws, have a pin inserted
in the recess that will resist
standard torx bits.
6 lobe screws are reusable
and suitable for use in areas
where maintenance is required.
Torx head screws and security
fasteners are also known by a wide variety of alternative
names including 6 lobe screws, resistorx, tamper proof
torx, torx pin, 6-lobe pin torx, and star pin drive. Tamper
proof torx fasteners offer a moderate security solution
to resist opportunistic tampering. Unfortunately, with
this type the security torx keys can be purchased online
impairing tamper resistance. A more secure version is the
5-lobe option. They require a special tool to fasten and
remove them.
Sentinel Screws (One Way Drive)
Sentinel screws have a
distinctive drive design which
can only be turned one way, so
they can’t be loosened. They
can be installed using a philips
or pozi driver and are easy to
install, so they suitable for high
volume assembly.
The shape of the drive is designed to prevent the
screwdriver from turning the screw in an anticlockwise
direction, Installation is straight forward, however removal
is very complicated. Sentinel clutch head screws are easy
to use thanks to their pozidrive style drive head.
The driver bits are only sold to authorized personnel
They can be installed with posidrive hand or power
screwdrivers, but once installed are almost impossible to
remove without drilling them out.
Clutch head security screws: These work in a similar
way to Sentinel screws and can be installed with a
standard slotted screwdriver. Again, once this screw is
fitted it cannot be unscrewed, making it a permanent or
1-way fastening.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 164

112
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
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
APRIL 25th-27th by Nancy Rich
Southeastern Fastener Association will be holding
their spring conference at the Embassy Suites Greenville
Golf Resort and Conference Center. 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. Rooms are as low as
$149 with all rooms being suites.
The Conference Schedule Includes:
Monday April 25th
1:00pm
Board Meeting
6:00pm - 8:00pm Welcome Reception
Tuesday April 26th
8:30am - 9:45am Golf-The Preserve at Verdae (on site)
Driving range available - balls provided
Check in at pro shop
10:00am Shot Gun Start
6:00pm
Cocktail Hour
7:00pm
Dinner, Awards, Silent Auction
Wednesday April 27th
8:15am
Member Business Meeting/
Breakfast
9:00am - 11:00am Table Top Show
11:15am - 12:00pm Social Media Presentation
12:00pm - 1:00pm Logistics-Where are we Now!
1:00pm - 2:30pm Panel Discussion
What We Learned, New Strategies,
Best Practices
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
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.
SEFA Welcomes New Members
Atlanta Rod & Mfg. - Lavonia, GA
Sonfast Corp. - Travelers Rest, SC
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
SOUTHEASTERN FASTENER ASSOCIATION

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 113

114
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
JO MORRIS & DAN WALKER THE POWER OF ASSOCIATIONS AND EDUCATION TO CONNECT THE SKILLS AND LABOR GAP from page 32
Together, IFI and FTI provide more than 20 in-depth
educational seminars each year to address key areas of
need for the fastener industry. The working relationship
between IFI and FTI grew even closer during the pandemic
and the two organizations are working side-by-side to
benefit the entire industry. IFI has opened up its
manufacturer focused Member Only Training classes to
everyone in the industry. These classes are now offered
to the public through FTI, and IFI members continue to get
this valuable training for no charge (a valuable member
benefit).
These training classes are a combination of webinars,
in-person classes, and hands-on demonstration with
subjects ranging from fastener basics, to testing and
industry specifications. IFI and FTI ensure training is
provided by recognized industry experts that are full-time
industry professionals with decades of experience. As
industry professionals, these instructors offer real-life
career experience as well as an in-depth knowledge of the
class subject area.
The classes offered by IFI and FTI are designed
to upskill employees and provide industry context to
develop and backfill a growing lack of mid- to senior-level
management that plagues the industry today and into the
future.
For 2022, IFI and FTI have scheduled a mix of
more than 20 classes that are a mix of webinars and
in-person instruction. In the first quarter of 2022, these
sessions are examining fastener basics, such as fastener
materials, quality assurance, structural bolting, electronic
assembly and lifting hardware, as well as geometric
dimensioning and tolerances for fasteners. There are also
sector-specific training sessions for key industries, like
aerospace.
Other specialty events, like FTI’s Fastener Training
Week, provide week-long intensive training for the industry
recognized credential known as “Certified Fastener
Specialist”. These immersive events include learning
labs, interactive exercises, and plant tours to prepare for
industry certification.
Companies with employees that participate in industry
training benefit from the latest industry knowledge and
can differentiate themselves from their industry peers.
This training brings value to a company and its customers
through their ability to embrace new efficiencies and
innovations that come to the industry.
Both the IFI and FTI also have extensive online libraries
and training resources that are critical industry resources.
These resources are columniations of decades of industry
leadership from their core areas of expertise. While
united in the mission of advancing the fasteners industry,
the IFI and FTI bring unique expertise to the industry.
Understanding more about the focus and capabilities of
these valuable industry partners can provide significant
benefit to your company and the entire fastener industry.
About the IFI
IFI offers a long history and experience, representing
the interests of North American mechanical fastener
manufacturers since 1931. The IFI represents more
than 160 fastener manufacturers and suppliers in North
America—making it the authoritative source of fastener
industry information.
The members of IFI are small, medium, and large
manufacturers, ranging from single-site, family-owned
businesses to multi-location, publicly traded fastener
manufacturers. IFI represents approximately 85 percent
of the production capacity in North America. Individual
companies range in size from around $10 million in sales
to companies with over $1 billion in sales.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 115

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 115
JO MORRIS & DAN WALKER THE POWER OF ASSOCIATIONS AND EDUCATION TO CONNECT THE SKILLS AND LABOR GAP from page 114
The IFI is an engineering-oriented association
addressing the operational concerns of its members and
representing the North American fastener manufacturing
industry to a variety of internal and external stakeholders.
It is headquartered in Independence, Ohio and is led by
the Managing Director, Dan Walker, who is supported
by a Director of Engineering Technology, Director of
Education & Training, Aerospace Division Manager,
Automotive Division Manager, and Industrial Products
Division Manager, as well as key clerical staff.
To learn more about the Industrial Fasteners Institute
(IFI), visit www.indfast.org.
About the FTI
The key objective of the FTI is to elevate the level of
technical understanding and expertise of the individuals
in the fastener industry by providing a variety of training
programs presented by recognized industry experts. The
core purpose for the FTI is to enhance fastener use,
reliability and safety by providing product training at all
levels.
FTI started in the 1970s as an industry group
in the Los Angeles area addressing a common need
among companies to train new employees with key
industry information. Today, the FTI is an international
organization for novice and advanced individuals working
in the fastener industry, providing in-person and online
training programs recognized by industry experts on
fastener products, standards and specifications.
FTI provides beginning & advanced training on
fastener products, standards & specifications. Our core
purpose: to enhance fastener use, reliability & safety.
FTI training helps the industry to deal with key issues,
including the effects of an aging workforce and advanced
engineering courses on troubleshooting fasteners to
increase reliability and safety.
To learn more about the Fastener Training Institute,
visit www.fastenertraining.org.
JO MORRIS & DAN WALKER

116
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
ROBERT FOOTLIK TRUST BUT VERIFY from page 36
If an error is encountered in this initial sample then
pull another sample of finished orders, possibly from
the same person or team in the warehouse. Should
another problem be encountered this is an indication
that a maximum, 100% level of sampling is required and
you might need to stop everything, open every order(!)
and get everyone involved in education and training.
This may sound drastic, but do you really want to deliver
orders that anger your customers?
Fortunately in most situations the sampling results
can be used to develop specific programs for enhancing
the numbers without drama and anxiety. Education is
the key, but you must reinforce this with psychological
incentives (thank team members in public, discipline
in private) for everyone involved and make sure that
both staff and management are fully participating in
the program. Post all statistical sampling information
using graphical charts, initially show the types of errors
with anonymous labels such as “picker,” “packer,”
“office,” “sales,” etc. Use these results for training on
both an individual and group basis without stigmatizing
individuals.
While in theory similar statistics could be gathered
simply by having the checker record and quantify the who,
what and when of any errors that occur, this function will
ultimately be eliminated if 4% sampling is more accurate
than 100% checking. How can this happen? With greater
focus during the verification process and by examining
sealed orders with the same scrutiny as a customer,
errors introduced at every level of the operation (sales,
stocking, picking, packing, shipping) will be noted. If the
customer ordered 100 package of 25, and 10 packs are
shipped you will hear about the error. But what happens
if the order was for 10 and 100 are shipped? Random
checking can catch both physical and logic errors (does a
one man customer shop really want 1,000 of anything?).
Establishing A Base Level Of Output
Start tracking the output of the pickers in context.
Warehouse picking is best measured by the “line” (most
of their time is spent in travel) for cart based operations,
while conveyor picking or other fixed location order
fulfillment is measured by the “piece.” The objective
is for you and everyone else to become comfortable
at about a 97.3% confidence level that what you are
finding in terms of both quality and quantity is “truth”
and accurate.
A good time frame should be at least
two months initially. Shorten the time frame if there are
monthly or seasonal peaks and valleys.
Over an extended period it is also possible to
develop correlations such as time of day, day of week,
individual momentary output, etc. For example, if an
order pick/packer has a significantly higher error rate
in the afternoon this problem can be investigated as to
whether the cause is fatigue or perhaps something they
were drinking at lunch.
Extending Participation
With the current checker/packer also reporting
any discrepancies encountered, including the who,
what and when, it is a simple matter to repurpose this
individual to become the random checker. If everyone
already trusts the checker’s observations, then the new
technique will be easily accepted. Adding more tasks
and responsibilities to this individual’s work day uses
any time saved more effectively and similarly sets the
stage for future progress.
Given that the checker should be conversant with
both checking and packing they may be the ideal individual
for initiating the Pick-Pack techniques. Therefore at
some point it will be necessary to train another individual
to take over the random sampling position. In many
operations this can even become a rotating job so that
everyone has hands on experience with what constitutes
a high quality order…from the customer’s perspective.
This is the time to begin setting goals for moving
the statistics in a positive direction, awarding the people
with incentives such as food, treats, time off, etc.
Acknowledgements for positive behavior will be far more
effective than money.
Introduce and emphasize the new “Perfection
Program” as measured by a “Percent of Perfection.” This
is far better than the more common “error rate” and it
reinforces something that most warehouse people have
never had in their lives. If 70% got them an acceptable
“C” in school then it’s going to take a lot of confidence
building to bring them up to a new standard of straight
“A’s.”. This will require full participation.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 166

118
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
JIM TRUESDELL BIG TECH AND THE PURCHASING PROCESS from page 40
Clearly this issue has supporters and detractors from
both sides of the political aisle. Some Republicans are
more focused on preventing online censorship (though
the counterargument would be that if competition was
protected that, in itself, would resolve the anti-censorship
needs). At any rate, the legislation is likely to face an
uphill battle for approval on the House floor.
Some of the large tech companies have begun rallying
constituencies against the proposals. Amazon has been
contacting some of the third party sellers who use their
platform to discuss concerns over how the proposed
laws’ effects could hamper those sellers’ ability to sell
their products on the platform. They also are contacting
legislators whose districts include Amazon distribution
centers and other facilities.
As the new year began, the Senate Judiciary Committee
in late January approved a measure called the American
Innovation and Choice Online Act. The vote was 16-6
despite the lobbying of the Big Tech companies against
this measure which would prohibit their platforms from
showing favoritism to their own products and services.
This move against what is called “self preferencing” as
debate goes back to the House as the Congress struggles
to come up with an anti-trust Tech bill that can garner rare
bipartisan support to become law.
Everyone marvels at the advantages to consumers
of highly developed on-line purchasing and distribution
channels. But we are still in the early stages. As things
move forward to be a mature segment of our industries we
will want to make sure that it is not the exclusive domain
of a few all powerful organizations that set the rules by
which the game will be played.
JIM TRUESDELL
WORLDWIDEFASTENERSOURCES.COM, LLC
TEL 602-793-2383 EMAIL mmcguire@worldwidefastenersources.com
WEB www.worldwidefastenersources.com
FIRST CLASS OF FASTENER LEGENDS ANNOUNCED By Mike McGuire
The first class of Fastener Legends is Mr. Martin
Calfee, Founder/Chairman of Copper State Bolt & Nut Co.
in Phoenix, Arizona and Mr. Leo J. Coar, Editor/Publisher
of the fastener trade magazine the Distributor’s LINK in
Naples, Florida.
A Legend is someone who leaves behind an
unforgettable impression on others. A Legend is
committed to a large goal or vision, and they touch lives,
they are remembered, and they are cherished because
they are known for doing something extremely well.
Worldwide Fastener Sources.com wants to
recognize these individuals for their accomplishments
and leadership skills in building, expanding, and growing
the American Fastener Industry.
One of the factors used in their selection is the 6 Ps
BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE
of Success. The 6 Ps are as follows:
PASSION: The ability to find ways to make it happen.
PRAGMATIC: The ability to set goals and to evaluate
them whether they work.
PRESPECTIVE: A way to review and evaluate specific
activities.
PERSONALITY: Being successful means being able to
collaborate with different people.
PREPARATION: Doing something to be ready and not to
lose a particular undertaking.
PERSEVERANCE: To persist despite difficulties.
Both of our recipients meet these qualifications
among other qualifiers.
Join us in congratulating Mr. Calfee and Mr. Coar in
their unique honor as a Fastener Legend.
WORLDWIDE FASTENER SOURCES.COM

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 119
The HONORS Program sponsored by
WorldwideFastenerSources.com is pleased
to announce the new HONORS Lapel Pin for
the winners in the Fastener Innovation Awards,
The Fastener Man of the Year, The Fastener
Legends, and The Multi-Line Independent
Fastener Rep.
The hexagon gold pin with a black lacquer
gloss finish is known as the 6 Ps to Success!
Originally presented to the Fastener Legends as the
“Achiever” pin is now part of the award for all the
HONORS winners. The 6 Ps are noted as follows:
PASSION: The ability to find ways to make it
happen
PRAGMATIC: The ability to set goals and to
evaluate them whether they are working.
PRESPECTIVE: A way to review and
evaluate particular activities.
PERSONALITY: Being successful means
being able to collaborate with different people.
PREPARATION: Doing something to be
ready and not to lose a particular undertaking.
PERSEVERANCE: To persist despite
difficulties.
For more information about the Honors Program,
contact Mike McGuire of WorldwideFastenerSources.
com at 555 Lesesne Street, Daniel Island, SC
29492. Tel: 602-793-2383, Email: mmcguire@
worldwidefastenersources.com or visit them online
at www.usfastenersources.com.

120
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
COMPUTER INSIGHTS INC. CERTIFICATE MANAGEMENT: STOP MISTAKES AND SAVES TIME from page 44
Problem Solved
The Business Edge TM
Certificate Management System
offers the ability to receive lot certificates from a vendor and
automatically send them to the customer. In conjunction
with the documentConnection TM
module, all certificates
are stored electronically for easy retrieval.
Automation
CERTIFICATE CATEGORIES
The Business Edge TM
allows companies to create their
own list of certificate types that they need to receive from
vendors and provide to customers. Each certificate type
has a default cost for purchase orders and a default price
for sales orders.
DEFAULT CERTIFICATES FOR PURCHASING
Every product can require different types of certificates.
The Business Edge TM
allows you to define a unique
default list of certificate requirements for each product.
The defaults are used when the product is placed on a
purchase order. These settings help people track which
certificates should be received from vendors and offer an
opportunity to override the cost when desired.
FLEXIBILITY
When entering a purchase order in The Business
Edge, TM
the system uses your default certificate settings
for each item. During the entry
of a purchase order, a person
can request additional certs or
remove specific default items. The
override features allow for custom
certification requirements for
specific purchase orders.
one document that fulfills multiple certificate types or
multiple documents per lot number. The documents are
scanned into the documentConnection TM
and linked
to the specific product, lot, and certificate types. The
relationship between lots and documents is maintained
after things have been shipped.
KEEPING TRACK OF REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Product inquiry screens show you which lots have
all required certificates scanned in and which ones are
missing required certifications. The system warns the
accounts payable personnel when entering the vendor
invoice if all the certificates have not been uploaded A
variety of inquiries and reports help people track any lots
that are missing their required certificates.
CUSTOMER CERTIFICATE DEFAULTS
There are two different ways of setting up default
certificates for each customer. First, you can choose
which certificates the customer will get for all products
on all orders. Assigning a customer with a general
rule for all products is helpful when they require the
same certificate type for all orders. Second, The
Business Edge TM also allows default certificates for a
specific product for a customer. Managing settings
per item enable customers to have different certificate
requirements without extra work.
SIMPLE RECEIVING
The Business Edge TM
can prompt
you to scan or drag-n-drop the different
required certificates while receiving,
or they can be uploaded at a later
time. The system allows scanning
CONTINUED ON PAGE 168

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 121

122
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
IFE THE BENEFITS OF EVENTS: WHY TRADE SHOWS ARE CRITICAL TO CONNECTION from page 46
Trade shows also allow for access to better
customer insights. Real-time customer feedback is a
unique opportunity at trade shows. As booth staff listen
to customers’ challenges, they can learn how to adapt
the business and its products or services to meet
their needs. In the case of a new product launch, expo
attendees can help provide immediate feedback about
features they love. The direct interactions trade shows
offer can give valuable insights that help your business
improve their products and services.
Trade shows allow for great lead generation
potential and a chance to boost brand visibility to
targeted customers. Trade show attendees are eager
to source immediate solutions to their business needs,
so focus on building your brand among these qualified
prospects. Your booth should stand out, or prospects
may quickly leave and head to the next booth. Your
booth’s presentation should make an initial connection
with prospective customers. As an exhibitor, consulting
with experts before attending an expo can help you
maximize the benefits of having a booth. Seeking advice
from someone on the International Fastener Expo team
can help you optimize your booth’s performance on
the show floor. If you’re looking to target fresh leads,
consider promoting QR codes linking to social media
accounts or online lead generation pages or offer
exclusive incentives on the show floor to those who
submit contact information or sign a contract on the
show floor.
One of the ways to build better customer relationships
at a trade show is by educating your customers.
Informative content has proven to be a valuable marketing
strategy that helps build authority and credibility. As
many of you may be aware, that’s been a critical
component of my work in the industry as informative and
also entertaining content provides customers with a way
to engage your company that doesn’t necessarily result
in sales right away but can certainly impact the inter- and
intra-personal organizational health of your business.
Attendees will get more value from your company
if you use the same educational approach coupled with
your expo promotional materials. One of the ways trade
shows can help in building connections is by offering
customer education using face-to-face connection, panel
discussions or seminars held at your booth. Providing
attendees with a learning experience shows that your
company is one of the authorities on specific topics in
the industry.
This is a critical way for some companies to establish
themselves or develop themselves within certain niches
and for others to expand upon product lines, plant the
seeds for the development of novel products, and to
keep tabs on industry trends as such events occur.
Having been the business development manager for a
relatively smaller, yet very effective (unbiased opinion,
of course…) metric importer prior to joining IFE (the day
before the 21’ show, by the way…), I saw firsthand how
a niche became a critical staple for an industry as events
necessitated new supply lines for many U.S. supply
chains. This is also why an event like IFE, which brings
together more fastener manufacturers, distributors and
suppliers, along with leading industry partners, in one
place and time anywhere in North America is a critical
component of the fastener industry and why I argue that
2022 particularly is the year for some companies to
return, some to debut and others to invest and capitalize
on the shifting market conditions not just to hit this
year’s numbers, but to establish themselves as the
leaders in their respective roles with positive value for
bottom lines for many years to come!
CONTINUED ON PAGE 123

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 123
IFE THE BENEFITS OF EVENTS: WHY TRADE SHOWS ARE CRITICAL TO CONNECTION from page 122
A successful trade show exhibit is not just about
how many deals you close in the booth. Even if you
don’t get a contract signed immediately, the customer
relationships developed can help build brand awareness.
You can expand your client base a short amount of time by
developing other marketing campaigns specifically around
customers you met at a trade show.
International Fastener Expo, North America’s most
extensive business-to-business tradeshow for all types
of fasteners, machinery & tooling and other industrial
products, provides a unique opportunity to connect
with new and potential customers, peers and industry
leaders. International Fastener Expo 2022 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. Brand New exhibitors
for 2022 include Star Metal Products and Pacific Bolt
Manufacturing Ltd. Returning to the show floor after
exhibiting for the first time in 2021 are American Scale
Co. Inc. and SmartCert® by Aramid.
And we are excited about our new exhibitors as well,
so be sure to check out my LinkedIn as I share messages
to welcome our fastener friends to the party! Also, be sure
to follow IFE on our social pages as we share updates
on the event in October, relevant industry research and
content, and other useful information.
Want to know more about International Fastener Expo
or a first-time exhibitor? We’d love to discuss in detail how
we can set you up for success at this year’s event and
explore the benefits of exhibiting and meeting with your
customers face-to-face at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas. Don’t
hesitate to contact a team member for more information.
I can’t wait to see everyone in October. With exhibitor
registration strong and many market indicators looking
good, we expect a great show for 2022!
INTERNATIONAL FASTENER EXPO

124
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
GUY AVELLON WHAT FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FAST FASTENER FACTS AND ANSWERS from page 48
[10] A lock washer will not prevent loss of preload.
a. If the clamp load is not significantly higher than
the external service load, nothing will prevent loosening
and loss of preload.
[11] If the assembly did not come with a lock
washer as OEM, Never put one on the fastener.
a. Reread above.
[12] No locking device will ever prevent loss of
preload.
a. Nothing will guarantee against loss if the joint
materials, fastener components and installation torque
are not compatible.
[13] Metal prevailing torque lock nuts are reusable,
nylon insert nuts are not. Choose the metal nuts if you
expect frequent maintenance.
a. Prevailing torque lock nuts have a lubricant
applied which reduces thread friction.
b. A nylon nut is like a standard nut, it has dry
threads which promote an increase in friction and an
increase in torque.
c. The nylon will also provide less drag with each
reuse due to wear.
[14] Any locking device will not always adequately
perform in every application.
a. Lock washers are good for sheet metal and small
screws, not 1-1/2” bolts.
b. Thread locking chemicals do not act alike, read
the labels.
[15] Thread locking chemicals are good for low
impact and low vibration loads.
a. Never rely on any locking device to stop loosening
or loss of preload.
b. Preload must be sufficient to overcome predictive
service loads.
Installation
[16] Any fastener made can and will fail if not
properly installed.
a. There are hundreds of variables to consider that
will cause loss of clamp load.
[17] Each joint is unique.
a. What you do for one joint may not be good for
another.
[18] Impact wrenches are NOT for installing
fasteners. EVER.
a. They have too much uncontrolled initial impact
torque.
[19] Uniform tightening is more important than
torque.
a. If one side is tighter than the other, loosening
occurs.
[20] Tightening technique affects the connection
more than torque.
a. How compressible is the joint?
b. Were incremental torques used along with a
torque pattern?
[21] Never apply full torque to a fastener during
initial tightening, especially with multiple fasteners in a
single joint connection.
a. The first fastener will become tighter, and then it
loosens as the rest are tightened.
b. Tighten in torque increments.
[22] If it is a critical connection, retighten the
fastener after two minutes and again after a load has
been applied.
a. This is due to normal compression set of the
materials, joint and fastener.
b. There is no such thing as a non-compressible
gasket. Every material relaxes, every material is
compressible.
[23] Torquing the head of the fastener takes more
torque than tightening the nut.
a. A torsional twist is applied to the body of the
fastener instead of stretching the threaded section which
dissipated the torsion more. When turning the head
stops, the fastener ‘unwinds’ itself and therefore loses
both stretch and clamp load.
b. This effect is reduced if the fastener is lubricated.
[24] Use incremental loading when tightening
multiple fasteners in the same joint as well as using a
criss-cross pattern.
a. This produces an evenly loaded joint connection.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 172

Powell Systems (PSI) is pleased to
announce the hiring of fastener industry veteran
Jim Witucki. Witucki has been in the industry
over thirty years. He began his career and spent
26-years with Nucor Fastener, where he was
sales manager. Most recently, Witucki was the
N. American Sales Manager for SKAKO Vibration
A/S based in Faaborg Denmark.
Founded by William J. Powell as Powell Pressed
Steel in Hubbard, Ohio in 1920, PSI has been
manufacturing material handling equipment for
four generations.
The first product was steel tote boxes used
to move manufactured material from one work
station to another. We pioneered several unique
designs with these boxes including gravity-feed
and drop-bottom containers.
Powell Systems is a fourth generation
manufacturer of material handling equipment,
pack lines and steel production containers.
Powell equipment and containers are found
throughout the hardware/fastener industry. In
addition to being a manufacturer, PSI is the
Dealer for SKAKO Vibration in the USA. According
to PSI President Jim Powell, “when SKAKO
decided to modify their sales and distribution
strategy in the USA, we saw a great opportunity to
bring Jim onboard. He was our primary contact at
SKAKO and now having him as a member of PSI
will make for a seamless transition for all parties
but most importantly the customer.”
Witucki will be PSI’s internal “SKAKO specialist”
as well as leading the sales effort. Witucki will
have the same responsibility at PSI as he did while
working at SKAKO for over five years. SKAKO is a
market leader in vibration technology. SKAKO has
over 50-years of experience in vibratory equipment
for hardware applications. Vibratory technology
provides for gentle and efficient feeding, including
highly interlocking parts.
To learn more about PSI’s line of products
including steel containers, pack lines, as well
as SKAKO’s vibratory solutions, contact Powell
Systems at 604 E. 9th St., PO Box 345, Fowler,
IN 47944. Telephone: 765-884-0613, Email
info@powell-systems.com or visit them online at
www.powell-systems.com.
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 125

126
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
GLOBALFASTENERNEWS.COM STAINLESS STEEL SHORTAGE: NO CHANGE UNTIL MORE PRODUCTION from page 52
In addition to more demand and inflation, China
is cutting back power for production to reduce carbon
emissions by working fewer hours.
S&P Global Platts reported steel imports into the
U.S. “are expected to rise enough in 2022 to keep
pressure on domestic prices that reached record levels
in 2021, but these shipments will not necessarily
represent an import surge.”
John Anton, director of pricing and purchasing at
IHS Markit, said the steel imports this may appear as
a spike, but this is mainly because imports since 2018
have been abnormally low due to tariffs, the coronavirus
pandemic and logistics issues.
“I would see imports maybe getting back to 2015-
2017 levels but do not see them surging,” Anton said in
a recent interview with S&P Global Platts.
UK-based Meps International Ltd, which monitors
worldwide steel market data, noted steelmakers are
reported record profits.
The Meps European average 304 cold rolled coil
basis value now equals the January 2007 all-time high
and the U.S. figure is at its highest in 14 years.”
Stainless prices are “expected to decline more
slowly than they increased in the past 12 months,” MEP
forecasts.
North American prices “are expected to be
constrained by reduced purchasing activity” in the
first half of 2022. Buyers already have significant
quantities of material already on order, with both
domestic and overseas suppliers. “However, supply
from domestic stainless steel producers is expected
to remain restricted. This will help to keep prices at
elevated levels, in the near term,” MEP reported.
European prices are forecast to move upwards early
in 2022. “However, inventories are increasing for most
grades and sizes. This, plus a softening in demand, is
expected to restrict the level of price rises that stainless
steel buyers will be prepared to accept during this
period.”
SMM News, which covers the metal market of
China, predicted that for the trend of stainless steel
prices in 2022, we think that the center of gravity moves
down, the price rises first and then suppresses, the
performance is strong in the second and third quarters,
and the overall fluctuation decreases.
SMM noted Ferro nickel production in Indonesia has
accelerated, but will remain tight in the first half of 2022.
Ferrochromium supply “tension is eased,” but
overseas capacity expansion is “relatively slow” while
demand for stainless steel is strong.
Stainless steel production capacity in Indonesia is
up and “we are cautiously optimistic about demand,
and the overall supply and demand of stainless steel is
loose.”
The “Global 304 Stainless Steel Market” study
projects that over the next five years the 304 Stainless
Steel Market will register “a magnificent spike in CAGR
in terms of revenue.”
The Covid-19 pandemic led to lockdown regulations
in multiple nations “resulting in disruptions in import and
export activities of 304 Stainless Steel.”
TradingEconomics.com reported Shanghai steel
futures were close to levels of late October “amid
limited supply, rising iron ore and nickel prices and
prospects of a demand boom.” Production in China is
likely to be constrained due to factories maintenance in
the first quarter, the Lunar New Year holidays and the
desire to limit pollution over the Beijing Winter Olympics.
Prices of nickel and iron ore for steel “remain elevated,
with possible supply disruptions in top iron ore exporter
Australia due to a surge in coronavirus virus cases.”
Second quarter demand in China will increase “as the
construction and infrastructure sectors pick up and the
Chinese authorities adopt stimulus measures to shore
up the economy.”
Reuters.com reported Chinese stainless steel futures
surged more than 5% earlier this month, “boosted by
tight supply concerns as producers cut production, while
strong raw material prices also offered support.”
“Domestic stainless steel firms are stepping up
maintenance in the first quarter, while affected by the
Spring Festival holidays and Beijing Winter Olympics;
overall production is expected to be limited,” Reuters
quoted analysts with Jinrui Futures.
Nickel prices keep stainless steel prices up cue,
Huatai Futures told Reuters.
The China Iron & Steel Association projected China’s
2021 crude steel output would fall to 1.03 billion tons
from a record 1.065 billion tons to reach a “supply and
demand balance.”
CONTINUED ON PAGE 174

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 127

128
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
SPIROL HOW TO DETERMINE THE PROPER DISC SPRING STACK CONFIGURATION from page 54
MEASURED CHARACTERISTIC CURVE
CALCULATED CHARACTERISTIC CURVE
to reduce deviation from theoretical predictions and
reduce heat buildup detrimental to life of the Disc. Disc
Springs stacked in parallel should be lubricated with
a solid lubricant such as molybdenum disulphide and
limited to a maximum of 4 Discs in parallel. Friction will
be less in a vertically oriented stack than in a horizontally
loaded stack. In dynamic applications there is a “running
in” period where friction is reduced as surface finish of
sliding surfaces and contact surfaces wear and smooth
due to part on part contact.
When stacking Disc Springs, a wide range of force/
deflection characteristics are possible; the stack can
be designed with specific load curves to meet the
application requirements with both progressive and
regressive possible (Figure 3).
REGRESSIVE
STRAIGHT LINE
PROGRESSIVE
FIGURE 2
Friction between Disc Springs stacked in parallel
must be considered. Factors affecting friction include
the number of Discs stacked in parallel, the amount of
Disc deflection, Disc lubrication and surface finish of the
Discs and guiding elements. A reasonable allowance
is 2 – 3% for each sliding surface. Addition of friction
in parallel stacked Discs results in an actual load/
deflection curve that is different from the theoretical
curve. Actual loads are higher when a load is applied
and reduced when the load is removed. This hysteresis
results in a damping affect that increases with thicker
Discs or more Discs stacked in parallel. (Figure 2).
Friction between sliding surfaces should be minimized
FIGURE 3
Stack Construction
It is preferable to configure the stack to have an
even number of Disc Springs with the outer edge of the
Disc Spring positioned at each end of the stack to aid
stability. Due to various application restrictions, it may
not always be possible to use a stack with an even
number of Disc Springs. When a stack configuration
uses an odd number of Disc Springs, the outer edge of
the Disc Spring should be oriented to the end which the
force is applied – the moving end of the stack.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 176

130
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
MWFA ANNOUNCES NEW VENUE FOR 2022 FSTNR WEEK from page 56
The afternoon of August 23rd will the 40th MWFA
Fastener Show. The Tabletop Show will allow suppliers
from across the country to exhibit their products in the
heart of the fastener industry. The show will open at
1:00pm and run until 6:00pm. While the industry has
enjoyed many virtual meetings with their associates, the
preferred option is an in-person meeting. It’s often said
the face-to-face meeting is the most productive, so take
advantage of this opportunity to showcase your products,
source new suppliers, reconnect with industry personnel,
and learn about new products and their applications.
The show features suppliers of fasteners, secondary
services, heat treating and plating as well as services to
the fastener industry. The show can also be utilized as
a valuable education tool for those new to the industry.
This economical event allows companies from across the
country to travel to Oak Brook which is easily accessible.
The show will be followed by the Fastener Bash
which always proves a great time to continue those
conversations begun at the show and secure new
relationships for suppliers and distributors. The Bash
will feature an open bar and appetizers from 6:00 p.m. to
8:00 p.m.
Join us on August 24th for the 69th MWFA Golf
Outing at the picturesque Willow Crest Golf Club, home to
numerous professional and amateur golf events. With a
beautiful, natural setting, gently rolling bent grass fairways,
well-bunkered greens, and unique water challenges, the
18-hole championship course is one of the finest in Oak
Brook, Illinois. This Chicago golf course features multiple
teeing areas for golfers of all experience levels. The
course is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary,
where land, water, and wildlife are protected. Enjoy rolling
fairways, well-bunkered greens, and challenging water
hazards.
The week doesn’t end after the show and golf.
On Thursday, August 26th, the MWFA will host one of
their MWFA Mixers inviting fastener friends to the patio
at Real Time Sports in Elk Grove. This allows more
networking while enjoying beverages, pizza, appetizers,
and raffles. The fun casual atmosphere allows local
and out of town companies to enjoy a great Chicago
evening together.
Fastener Training Institute will be participating in
FSTNR Week by providing their Fastener Week program
for those desiring to achieve their Certified Fastener
Specialist certificate. This week class offers intense
education and plant tours. Students may then take a final
exam to be eligible for the Certified Fastener Specialist
(CCFS) designation.
For more information about this class and additional
classes offered by FTI visit www.fastenertraining.org
This week will offer several sponsorship
opportunities allowing you an extra opportunity
to have your company name highlighted. Please
consider a sponsorship making you a special part
of a memorable week.
For more information or registration for these events
and sponsorships, visit www.mwfa.net or contact Nancy
Rich mwfa@mwfa.net. We look forward to seeing you in
August!
MID-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION

MID-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION
HOLIDAY PARTY 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 145

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THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 139
J.W. Winco, Inc., has
added two newly designed
machine feet families to its
portfolio. In addition to a
high-quality and exceptionally
stable design, the components
feature additional, beneficial
properties.
The new solid machine
feet from the standard
parts specialist Winco are
particularly well suited for
large and heavy systems and
machines. The machine foot
GN 36 uses the weight of
the machine to create a very
stable and robust connection
between the threaded stud
and the foot. The threaded
stud is not connected to the
foot plate. Rather, the stud
centers itself automatically
at the contact point via the
radius. The blue zinc-plated
steel threaded stud is available
with fine thread from M20x1.5
to M42x2 for precise leveling
and comes with the matching
lock nut. The forged steel foot
plate is available in a diameter
up to 7.87 in (200 mm), has
a powder coated black matte
surface and can be ordered in
three different types.
With type A, the foot plate
rests flat on the underlying
surface. Type B has an NBR
rubber pad that reduces wear
on the surface beneath and is
also suitable for contact with
oil or coolants. Type C has
an O-ring that seals the foot
plate, preventing liquids from
penetrating under the foot.
Depending on the foot plate
diameter, types A and C
can each support a load of
11240 lbf (5 t) to 56202 lbf (25 t). The
static load capacity for type B ranges
from 4496 lbf (2 t) to 24729 lbf (11
t) due to the nature of the rubber pad.
The feet are perfect when it comes
to compensating for an uneven floor;
however, the machine feet may not be
used on a surface inclined at greater
than 3 degrees to the threaded stud.
The second new machine foot GN
37 from Winco also has a central
fastening hole running clear through.
This allows use of an anchor bolt.
The anchor secures the foot to the
floor, preparing it for lateral loads. This
makes the machine feet optimal for
manufacturing systems or conveyors
that are subjected to dynamic
movements and lateral forces due
to the use of robots. As with GN 36,
the foot plate GN 37 can be ordered
in types A, B and C. The machine feet
GN 37 of types A and C can support
between 8992 lbf (4 t) and 33721 lbf
(15 t), depending on diameter, while
the load capacity of type B ranges
between 4496 lbf (2 t) to 24729 lbf
(11 t).
For more information, contact JW
Winco Canada sales at 1-800--397-
6993, EMail: sales@jwwinco.ca or visit
them online at www.jwwinco.com.

140
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
JOE SASSO LEADERSHIP TODAY: PLEASE STOP! WE ARE STILL BACK IN THE 20th CENTURY from page 58
Spiral Up - New Prologue
Alone we can do so little; together we can do
so much - Helen Keller
Jack Marshall sat in his office overwhelmed by
the challenge ahead. Jack had been with GY Bradley
Associates for over 15 years and had served successfully
in sales and leadership positions all over the world. He’d
chosen GY Bradley Associates because of its strong
leadership culture. The leaders energized the business
environment with clear visions that empower people to
bring their best intentions, knowledge, and experience to
the table.
Now back at the Chicago headquarters office for only
a couple of months in a senior leadership role with the
New Ventures Group, Jack had just gotten the go-ahead
to develop one of three prototype products the Board of
Directors believed had great promise.
To put together the proposal for the Board, Jack
had recruited several trusted leaders to be members of
the development team. They put together a plan and
strategy to roll out the new product within four months of
the Board’s approval and also provided a budget for the
first six months.
With the Board’s approval, Jack was confident that
his vision of the project would be the inspiration for
everyone he invited to work on the team. In fact, with
Jack’s reputation for inspired leadership, as word got out
about the project, people began volunteering to be on
Jack’s team.
This was the biggest challenge and opportunity for
Jack’s career. And he had a tight timeframe to make
it happen. He had three months to get the product
production-ready, including a beta-test for customer
acceptance. The fourth month would be spent getting
the product into the delivery system.
Jack leaned back in his chair and sighed. He knew
that he needed a seasoned leader to help him make this
project a success. Someone who could keep the team
focused and working together while he stayed involved in
some of his other work. His mind went immediately to a
trusted colleague with whom he had developed a special
relationship while assigned to training in India.
Satyagraha Ahimsa, or known to most as “Satya”,
was born in Dandi, India. Satya earned a business
degree in the US and worked for several companies
before coming to GY Bradley Associates. During his
time in at the Chicago headquarters, Satya was in an
automobile accident that left him nearly blind. At the
urging of his family, he participated in rehabilitation
activities designed to help him continue to work with his
new sight limitations.
It was during rehabilitation that he was united with
Gita. Gita is a pure white Labrador Retriever endowed
with sacred blue eyes. Initially, she was trained to be
a guide dog, but never quite measured up to those
requirements. She had, however, acquired enough of
the guide dog characteristics to be of assistance to
someone like Satya whose eyesight improved ever so
slightly after the accident. In a short amount of time,
Satya and Gita became inseparable. As Satya said
often, “Gita helps me to observe what I do not see
clearly.”
After the accident and rehabilitation, Satya returned
to work. Even with his limited sight, Satya was highly
regarded for his ability to inspire people to work together
as a team. He was known in the company to have
supernatural wisdom around team development and
performance.
After several more years at the Chicago headquarters,
Satya was asked to take on a special executive
assignment in India because of his extensive knowledge
of the Indian culture. Satya welcomed the assignment
as it meant he could spend more time with his family in
India.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 177

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 141
Birmingham Fastener
and Supply Inc. iis excited to
announce the acquisition of K-T
Bolt Manufacturing, Inc. based
in Katy, Texas. With over 100
years of combined fastener
production, this acquisition
strengthens Birmingham
Fastener’s product offering and
manufacturing diversity. Most
importantly, it allows us to add
teammates to our world-class
staff and will yield long-term
benefits for our customers.
K-T Bolt Manufacturing
provides custom fabrication,
closed-die forging, in-house heat
treating, and electropolishing.
With this new partnership,
Birmingham Fastener and its
sister companies can expand
product and service offerings to
their customers. Randy Peck will
stay on as President of K-T Bolt
and join the leadership team at
Birmingham fastener, offering
his expertise in the field.
“The future of our company
is now and always will be about
growth and productive changes.
At the same time, we must hold
fast to our core values like worldclass
service, accountability,
and a commitment to excellence
that we’ve had since my father
founded this company in 1980”
says Brad Tinney, President and
CEO of Birmingham Fastener.
“This partnership allows us to
further expand our footprint and
strengthen our commitment
to American fastener
manufacturing.”
For more information contact
Birmingham Fastener Inc. by
Tel: 1-800-695-3511 or visit
www.bhamfast.com.

142
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
NELSON VALDERRAMA MAYBE IT’S NOT THE MILLENNIALS, MAYBE IT’S YOUR COMPANY from page 60
Apart from changing trends and the COVID-19 crisis,
another challenge that the market is facing is a shortage
of labor. Today, almost every workplace comprises
millennials with their unique way of looking at the world.
According to research, over 19 Million US workers have
quit their jobs since April 2021. It has negatively impacted
the businesses in every sector. To stop this mass
exodus, companies offer employees with financial perks
and bonuses. But millennials are perceptive; instead of
appreciating the gesture, they sense a transaction.
It seems that the organizations are not meeting
their real needs. Employees today feel exhausted,
unenthusiastic, and indifferent towards their organizations.
Despite showering them with monetary benefits, a sense
of shared identity is what they truly crave. If workers don’t
feel valued, seen, heard, and empowered, they lose the
sense of purpose. So meaningful interactions, rather than
transactions, will play a major role as we move forward.
We need a new narrative that can reshape the future of
work. Work will never be the same as it was before the
pandemic. Too many things happened- in the world, inside
organizations, and among employees- catalyzing changes
that had long been brewing.
Taking everything into account, business leaders can
take the following powerful actions.
From Talent Takers To Talent Makers
Organizations are experiencing a skills shortage.
Therefore, scaling investments in learning can play a vital
role. Helping current employees learn and have a growth
mindset will help organizations improve. It is important to
employ ways to tap the hidden potential of their people
and uplift them throughout their career journey.
Job titles are a great way to stand out in the job
market, and they can also provide valuable insight
into how your company and culture are different. For
example, the title of “receptionist” might be revised to
“Customer Experience Associate” This new position will
allow employees more flexibility and responsibility, while
their experience in customer-facing work makes them
invaluable on any project.
Build The Personal Capacity Of Workers
Instead Of Managing Them As Machines
Leaders need to support employees and help them
create a meaningful life. Every person has a unique talent,
and the best leader can reveal and utilize it in the most
productive way. Reorganizing workflows and giving workers
a sense of belonging are great ways to get started.
A shared vision, mutual respect, and common values
unite people. It could be the best way to retain the
workforce and contribute to success. In order to succeed,
we have all been learning how important it is that each
person in our workforce takes more than just their title
and list of skills. The meteoric rise over the past 18
months with tech adoption reminds us again not only do
they need understanding but also consent from those
around them as well!
So, far, we have discussed the unusual job market we
are all facing, and how a change in perspective is needed
to meet that problem. Rather than throwing money at the
problem, this is an opportunity to grow talent, and manage
respectfully.
Before you proceed to the undertaking, ask the
following questions -
Are Your Leaders Motivating?
An organization that lacks motivating leaders often
finds its hardworking employees leaving. If workers do not
feel valued and inspired, they do not feel like giving 100%
to the job. Leaders need to lead with compassion and
empathy.
Are Your Workers In Their Right Positions?
For a successful organization, it is important to have
the right people at the right seats. It becomes more
important for managerial positions where new leadership
skills are essential. If your managers and executives
have no skills to work in hybrid and virtual environments,
training and capability-building will help.
How Strong Was Your Work Culture Before
The Pandemic Hit?
Returning to the office may seem like a blessing
and a way to address lingering culture and connectivity
concerns for many executives. It is time to understand
that the needs of your employees have changed, and your
culture may not have kept up, leading to magnifying the
weaknesses of organizations which was the main topic I
discussed with the two distributors I talked last week.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 143

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 143
NELSON VALDERRAMA MAYBE IT’S NOT THE MILLENNIALS, MAYBE IT’S YOUR COMPANY from page 142
Are You Focusing More On A Transactional
Relationship?
How you react in response to attrition shows how
you treat your employees. If your response is limited to
offering financial perks and bonuses, workers understand
that their value in the organization is just transactional.
Do not forget that the best people you have will always
find their way to organizations where they are valued
as human beings. Your aim should not just solve their
bank problems, but the whole person and the whole
organization.
Do Your Benefits Align With The Priorities Of
Employees?
Today, when most workers are returning to the office,
their top priority is not free parking or perks related to
entertainment but family care. As per a recent survey,
most people, especially women planning to quit, want
childcare. Organizations should keep the basic needs of
their employees a priority, for instance, onsite childcare,
flexible work hours, and other family-focused benefits. It
will ensure the employees that you value them not only as
workers but also as humans.
Do You Provide Opportunities To Grow?
While employees look for strong career trajectories,
they also desire recognition and development. Rewarding
employees with promotions and exploring the new projects
and positions challenge them to do more and better for
the organization.
Last Word
While Henry Ford’s invention created a world that
many in his era could have only dreamed of, we are in a
similar situation today with automation, employment, and
inspiring the next generation. One of the biggest, boldest
technical innovations today is Artificial Intelligence (AI),
and Intuilize is a leader in AI for the Industrial Supplier.
Contact us today to learn more about what we can do for
your business, and the future of work.
NELSON VALDERRAMA

144
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
ROMAN BASI SECTION 1202 STOCK: HOW TO EXCLUDE UP TO $10 MILLION ON THE SALE OF YOUR BUSINESS! – PART 2 from page 70
[6] The issuing corporation does not significantly
redeem its stock within a two-year period beginning
one year before the issue date. A significant stock
redemption is redeeming an aggregate value of stocks
that exceed 5% of the total value of the company’s stock.
If your business satisfies these requirements,
then congratulations! When you sell your company, you
should be able to exclude (almost all) of your federal
capital gains tax. State taxes that conform to federal tax
will also exclude capital gains of small business stock.
Since not all states correlate with federal tax directives,
taxpayers should seek guidance on how their states treat
realized profits from the sale of qualified small business
stocks.
Let’s walk through an example whereby a business
owner decides to close up shop and sell their business.
The business owner is single and has $410,000 in
ordinary taxable income, therefore placing them in the
highest tax bracket. They sell qualified small business
stock acquired on September 30, 2010 and have a
realized profit of $50,000. The taxpayer may exclude
100% of their capital gains, meaning the federal tax due
on the gains is $0. The exclusion could possibly be even
greater if the applicable state laws recognize Section
1202! Now, let’s change the facts a little bit. Suppose
the taxpayer purchased the stock on February 10, 2009,
and after five years sells it for a $50,000 profit. The
Federal tax due on capital gains would be 28% x (50%
x 50,000) = $7,000. This example really illustrates the
importance of timing with regards to when the stock was
acquired. Only stock acquired on or after September 27,
2010 is eligible for exclusion of up to $10 million.
Business owners should immediately check with
their legal counsel, accountant, or business broker
regarding the structure of their business, ESPECIALLY
if they plan on selling their business within the next few
years. Failure to do so could potentially leave millions on
the table!
ROMAN BASI
ANTHONY DI MAIO WHAT JUSTIFIES THE USE OF BLIND RIVETS? from page 74
Pressure And Leak Resitant Jointing
Blind rivets expand when set filling and plugging the hole
it is in from incursion by water, fumes etc. With sealant
applied to the barrel side of the flange, that when set on
roofs of police cars, water will not leak into the vehicle.
Vibration Resistance
Set blind rivets do not loosen, shake out or back off
as screws and bolts do. As blind rivets, when set fill the
hole completely and tightly, there is no possibility of slide,
slippage cannot exist. Locking devices, thread adhesives
and lock washers are unnecessary
Overcoming Mismatching
Blind rivets can be selected to overcome poor hole
alignment and oversized holes. Since blind rivets hold
by expansion inside the hole, irregularities can be
compensated for during installation.Not all blind rivets
are capable of filling oversized holes. The strong pull up
characteristic of the blind rivet allows even separated parts
to be pulled together and joined.
Foolproof Installation
While nuts could be forgotten at assembly, screws
not torqued and adhesives not set correctly, blind rivets
can only be set or not set. Once the setting tool cycle is
run the blind rivet is set and the mandrel is broken off
automatically producing a positive visually inspectable
joint. The operator of the setting tool is easily taught
and requires no adjustment or tinkering.
Variety
Blind rivets being standard for many years, are
available in many styles, types and sizes at low cost
and without lengthy delays for set-up and tooling.
Special modifications for unique features such as
shoulders to attached components.
Material range from steel, stainless steel, aluminum
to even plastic. Styles include large diameter heads for
load distribution, countersunk heads and even of set
stand-off heads for molding attachments. Colored blind
rivets to match styling needs.
ANTHONY Di MAIO

MID-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION
HOLIDAY PARTY 2021

146
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
IFI SOARING EAGLE AWARDS 2022 from page 76
The 2022 Soaring Eagle Technology Award
Recipient is Kevin Menke
The IFI Soaring Eagle Technology Award recognizes
individuals who have extensive experience in the
industrial fastener industry and who have made significant
contributions to the technological advancement of the
industry. Contributions may be through extensive work on
fastener standards committees; the publication of widely
acclaimed principles or documents; and/or through the
development of fastener-related equipment, products
or processes which have been widely acknowledged as
advancements in fastener technology.
In recognition of your remarkable service and
continuing contributions to fastener technology and
fastener standards. The highlight of your contributions is
undoubtedly the hugely consequential watershed revision
of ASTM B633. In the face of unprecedented obstruction,
you led a large collaborative effort that finally corrects
the record on hydrogen embrittlement and will benefit the
fastener industry for generations. This accomplishment
is a testimony to the personal integrity, persistence and
professionalism that have earned you such great respect
from your peers. Your many contributions in multiple and
diverse technical committees have led to significant and
enduring advancements in fastener technology, fastener
industry standardization, and in the state of the art.
Submit a Nomination
Visit our website at www.indfast.org/info/award
to submit a nomination for next year’s Soaring Eagle
Awards program.
About IFI
Industrial Fasteners Institute, headquartered in
KEVIN MENKE - 2022 IFI SOARING EAGLE TECHNOLOGY AWARD RECIPIENT
Independence, Ohio, is an Association of the leading
North American manufacturers of bolts, nuts, screws,
rivets, pins, washers, and a myriad of custom formed
parts. Suppliers of materials, machinery, equipment
and engineered services, are Associate Members
of the Institute. IFI membership currently stands at
70 Company Members with 61 Subsidiaries and 55
Associate Members.
For 90 years, IFI’s fastener manufacturing member
companies have combined their skills and knowledge to
advance the technology and application engineering of
fasteners and formed parts through planned programs
of research and education. Users of fasteners and
formed parts in all industries benefit from the continuing
design, manufacturing, and application advances made
by the Industrial Fasteners Institute membership.
To inquire about IFI membership, contact Dan
Walker, Managing Director at dwalker@indfast.org or call
216-241-1482 for details on eligibility and benefits.
INDUSTRIAL FASTENERS INSTITUTE

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 147
METROPOLITAN FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION
PO Box 72, Lake Zurich, IL 60047
TEL 201-254-7784 FAX 847-516-6728 EMAIL admin@mfda.us WEB www.mfda.us
SAVE THE DATE! MFDA’s 25th ANNUAL GOLF
OUTING - SEPTEMBER 10-11 by Rob Rundle
MFDA’s 25th Annual Golf Outing
“The East Coast Fastener Premier Golf Outing”
The Metropolitan Fastener Distributors Association’s
25th Annual golf outing will be held SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER
11, 2022. The Outing will be held at Wild Turkey Golf Club
at Crystal Springs Resort in Hardyston, NJ.
The Pre-Golf Cocktail Party, sponsored by MFDA
member companies, will be held late afternoon on
SATURDAY, September 10, 2022, at the Crystal Springs
Resort.
Saturday, September 10, 2022
Event:
Pre-Golf Cocktail Party
Location: Crystal Springs CC
Time:
Hardyston, NJ
4:30pm – 6:30pm
Sponsored by Member & Associated Companies
Sunday, September 11, 2022
Event:
Golf Outing
Location: Ballyowen Golf Club
Time:
Crystal Springs CC, Hardyston, NJ
6:45am - Registration
8:00am – Shot Gun Start
MFDA’s 23rd Annual Toys For Tots Drive
The MFDA held its first in-person event since the
pandemic began in December with its 23rd Annual Toys
For Tots drive. While attendance at the dinner this year
was understandably smaller than in the past, the MFDA
was thrilled to once again meet in person and get a
chance to celebrate the holidays. Due to cash donations
from over thirty-five members and friends, we were able
to make a MFDA record setting donation of $10,000!
Multiple MFDA companies also organized toy drives,
which were present to the Marines along with the check.
Each year the Marines of Golf Company based at
the Picatinny Arsenal help organize donations of nearly
100,000 toys to over 40,000 children in the Northern
New Jersey area. 2021 was a very difficult year for them.
Sergeant Santiago Lopez told the assembled members
that the Marine’s toy donations had been down from past
years, so the MFDA’s contribution was especially needed
and welcomed.
The Association is looking forward to its 24th annual
drive this coming winter.
All proceeds of the event go to kick off the 2022
MFDA Scholarship Fund.
We’re looking forward to reconnecting with our fellow
members and their guests to celebrate our 25th Outing.
Mark Your calendars! See you then! Details to follow
or check the MFDA website.
For more information contact Ken Schneeloch
or Nancy Montesano by Tel: 201-644-7424, or email
theschnee@aol.com or nmonte81@gmail.com.
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
METROPOLITAN FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION

148
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
STAFDA BEAR GRYLLS TO KEYNOTE STAFDA’S SAN DIEGO MEETING from page 78
In addition, Jude Nosek, Vice President-Marketing
and New Product Development, for Keson LLC, Aurora,
IL, will be STAFDA’s Associate State of the Industry
Speaker at the General Session.
For over a decade, he worked in
marketing for Anixter, a $10 billion
company with 500 inside and 150
outside salespeople. He wrote hundreds
of brochures, technical white papers,
product sell sheets, and catalogs.
During that time, Nosek also worked as
a project manager and eventually as an
internal creative director designing sales
and marketing strategies and support
materials executed around the globe.
In Fall 2004, he was asked to assess the marketing
needs of Keson, a company founded in 1968 by his
grandfather, Roy Nosek (the company name is the family
name spelled backwards). Soon, Jude was working
alongside his brother, Aaron and cousin, David. Since
that time, Keson has weathered almost 20 years of
growing stronger and more relevant to those who need
measuring and marking products.
The greatest challenge to date came
with the joining of two companies to
form Keson LLC and the subsequent
introduction of Austrian-based SOLA
products and Keson Levels into the
North American market. He worked
with teams on both sides of the Atlantic
to help craft an offering, compose
messaging, and launch the next phase
of Keson’s evolution, balancing the
needs of both brands under one
company’s offering.
STAFDA’s San Diego Convention Registration opens
on Monday, June 27 at 8 a.m. Central from the membersonly
section of stafda.org.
SPECIALTY TOOLS & FASTENERS DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION
JOE DYSART AI PERSONALIZED NEWSLETTERS: HOW FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS CAN DEEPEN CUSTOMER LOYALTY from page 102
The service also integrates Google Analytics into its
service, so you’ll be able to rely on world-class analysis to
better personalize your newsletters with each send.
Plus, MarketTraq serves-up an ‘Email Engagement
Score,’ for every subscriber, enabling you to segment-out
readers based on the interests they share, the amount of
money they have to spend based on past behaviors, how
often they engage with your personalized newsletter and
similar.
¤ Frizbit (www.frizbit.com): The service’s newsletter
personalization starts by tracking products and/or services
each subscriber has purchased -- as well as each product or
service they’ve engaged with, including categories they’ve
shopped, images they’ve viewed and prices they’ve checkout.
Friztbit will also analyze and adjust newsletter content
based on the total amount of time a customer spends with
the newsletter for your fastener distribution company or on
your digital property, how often they spend money, the value
of goods or services they purchase and the categories of
goods and services they shop.
Still other data points tracked include last time of visit
to your Web site and the computer device or devices they
use.
¤ Adobe Campaign Personalization (www.
experienceleague.adobe.com/docs/campaign-classic/
using/sending-messages/personalizing-deliveries/aboutpersonalization).
Adobe offers an incredibly detailed look
under-the-hood at how its newsletter and marketing
personalization works.
Like its competitors, it personalizes newsletter and
other marketing content for your fastener distributorship
based on a subscriber’s interaction with your newsletter
and other, highly personalized data points.
Still other newsletter personalization services to check out
include:
*Bronto (www.bronto.com/product/email-personalization)
*Autopilot (www.autopilotapp.com)
*Emarsys (www.emarsys.com/channels/email)
*Insider (www.useinsider.com)
JOE DYSART

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 149

150
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
QUALITY FASTENERS THE ‘HARD-TO-FIND ITEM’ SPECIALISTS from page 82
You can stop by their new location or shop online
at www.qualityfasteners.com. Quality Fasteners stocks a
wide variety of industrial supplies. If you don’t see the
item you need, give their knowledgeable staff a call, and
they will find it or special-order it for you. Quality Fasteners
also offers money-saving specials. Be sure to visit their
website often to see what is new.
¤ Bolts ¤ Electrical Terminals
¤ Nuts ¤ Lubricants & Cleaners
¤ Washers ¤ Hand & Power Tools
¤ Threaded Rods ¤ Springs
¤ Cutting Tools ¤ Metric Fasteners
¤ Abrasives ¤ Industrial supplies
¤ Anchors ¤ Brass Fittings
¤ Pipe Fittings
Online Store
Quality Fasteners is dedicated to supplying you with
quality products at very competitive prices. They believe
in going that extra mile to make sure you succeed, which
is why they offer Monthly Specials. The specials will
meet your needs for quality products and provide you
with additional savings. See what’s on special at www
qualityfasteners.com. Your satisfaction and success are
always top priorities.
Services
Quality Fasteners’ goal is to have what you need when
you need it at a fair price. They value a simple concept
of continuous improvement with our customers. They
maintain a large physical inventory with a 97% shipping
percentage. Their expert staff uses the best combination
of their resources to solve your inventory needs. They
offer nationwide shipping capabilities by ground and air.
They specialize in Vendor Managed Inventory, Just in Time
Inventory, Counter Sales, and On-Site Consulting.
Vendor Managed Inventory
Quality Fasteners are dedicated to finding the
best way to manage your inventory. They are ready to
accommodate you in finding the best combination of
Price, Quality, and Service that fits your business needs.
Vendor Inventory Management Services are available in
Houston, Ft. Worth, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, and the
surrounding areas. Their goal is to save you time and
money while removing the frustration of running out of the
products you need. With a 100% money-back guarantee,
you will never be overstocked on any product they manage
for you. Quality Fasteners takes a conservative approach
in recommending products based on your history of usage
and need.
In addition to inventory management, they have a
wide variety of assembled assortments that keeps your
inventory organized and easy to find. If one does not fit
your needs, they can create a custom assortment geared
toward your inventory system. They analyze and design the
most productive way to manage your inventory, so there is
no wasted time looking for the correct part. The Business
Edge TM
by Computer Insights, Inc. allows them to offer
their customers scanners to maximize efficiencies.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 151

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 151
QUALITY FASTENERS THE ‘HARD-TO-FIND ITEM’ SPECIALISTS from page 150
Just In Time Services
Their flexibility of inventory and services makes Just In
Time available at a minimal cost. They make it easy for you
to manage your inventory at your minimums and maintain
a backup supply to avoid overstocking to save you money.
Quality Fasteners can deliver 24 hours a day for emergency
requests and are dedicated to maintaining your service needs.
On-Site Consulting
Years of experience and an inclination to assist people
means Quality Fasteners is more than just a supplier.
They are a partner that has your best interests in mind.
They can advise you with the Organization of Supplies, the
Determination of A, B, and C items, Minimum-Maximums,
Problem Solving/Product Suggestions, and Integrated
Processes and Controls.
Technology
Partnering with Computer Insights, Inc. has been
a good fit from the beginning. Sharing a customerfirst
attitude makes working together easy. Larry Matula
told me, “...remote working has always been easy with
The Business Edge. TM
It became even more of an advantage
when COVID restrictions were in place. We did not have to
do anything special to allow some employees to work from
home. Other existing features helped us offer curbside
support; this was at a time when our competitors were
struggling with it or not offering it at all.” He went on to tell
me, “the credit card integration has been beneficial as our
counter sales have increased.” Mark Matula told me they
are taking advantage of The Business Edge’s RESTful APIs
to keep on top of their warehouse KPIs.
More Information
Quality Fasteners can be reached at 10507 N IH 35,
San Antonio, TX 78233. Contact Larry and Mark Matula,
Owners by telephone at 210-656-2323, email info@
qualityfasteners.com or at www.qualityfasteners.com.
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 at www.ci-inc.com.
QUALITY FASTENERS

152
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
U.S. ANCHOR (A BBI COMPANY) STRONG CUSTOMER SATISFACTION THROUGH TESTING, APPROVALS & COMMITMENT from page 90
Seismic events from the past contributed to an
important role in these new testing mandates. The
addition of cracked concrete approvals has contributed to
better performing anchoring products fueling the growth
of the U.S. Anchor product lines, particularly in the heavy
duty range of products.
LITE & MEDIUM DUTY ANCHORS
The comprehensive U.S. Anchor lite & medium
anchor selections include the following anchor types for
multiple substrates and applications.
¤ Tapking SD – Standard & Trim Head concrete
¤ Drop-In – Sleeve anchors (ASTM-E488)
independently tested
¤ Legacy Anchors – Single/Double Expansion,
Lead and Machine Screw
¤ Conical Plastic/Nylon Drive/Mungo/Toggle Bolts
¤ Drywall – EZ/Wall Driller/Hollow Wall
Generic bulk wedge and concrete screws, are also
available. All U.S. Anchor packaging includes pertinent
data to identify the parts, lot numbers and dimensions
for ease of use and traceability.
Inventory Commitment & Customer Service
Brighton-Best International prides itself on a strong
inventory commitment to support its 3,000+ customers.
Strict adherence to sourcing and on hand stocking levels has
contributed to high fill rates and high customer satisfaction.
The significant investment in product
testing and approvals has increased and
improved our reputation
at the engineering and
end user levels, with
the development of the
Ultrawedge+ Wedge Anchor
and the Tapking HD Heavy Duty larger
diameter concrete screw contributing to
increased recognition nationally.
U.S. Anchor inventory emanates from 21 regional
Brighton-Best International warehouses, backed by 150
inside and 20 outside sales professionals, and a web
ordering system that allows you to check availability and
pricing for any inventory item 24/7 with just a few short
keystrokes!
In addition to investing in product testing and
approvals, Brighton-Best International has not only built a
marketplace where customers want to come to transact
but also an in-house warehouse management system
that can track an order from sales order entry to picking,
packing & shipping. With the warehouse management
system, BBI is able to know real-time inventory positions
at all of its warehouse locations.
Quotations, purchase orders, open order inquiries,
and component certification reviews can all be accessed
quickly and easily on-line at www.brightonbest.com.
For more information on all U.S. Anchor product lines
please visit: www.brightonbest.com/us_anchor.
U.S. ANCHOR

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 153
Smalley Steel Ring Company is pleased
to announce the release of their new Tapered
Section Retaining Ring (Circlip) Series.
When you are in need of a quick and
economical heavy-duty ring, Smalley’s newest
standard series of Tapered Section Retaining
Rings (Circlips) is here to secure your assembly!
With over 100 years of manufacturing excellence,
Smalley is the Engineer’s Choice for supplying
or designing the right retaining ring solution for all
of your application needs. Smalley has recently
partnered with Beneri, the leading Italian circlip
manufacturer since 1958, to bring you even more
retaining ring solutions at the same quality you
trust. What are Tapered Section Retaining Rings
(Circlips)? Tapered Section Retaining Rings, also
referred to as circlips, are retaining rings with a
tapered radial wall. Designed for high thrust loads
and heavy-duty applications, Tapered Section
Retaining Rings are trusted in thousands of
applications across every industry because they
are an economical, efficient, and secure method
to streamline your assembly. “We are excited
to introduce Tapered Section Retaining Rings
to our selection of over 6,000 retaining rings,”
said Jon Fulton, Director of Sales Engineering.
“Expanding our retaining ring product line will
help us better support our customers and their
unique application requirements.”
Internal and External Tapered Section Retaining
Rings are in stock from 0.25 – 3”, or 3 – 75 mm.
Smalley is a quality-driven organization that
provides the highest quality retaining rings and
springs. Smalley’s parts have been used in the
Automotive industry for over 100 years in everything
from steering systems to transmissions.
For more information contact Smalley at
555 Oakwood Road, Lake Zurich, IL 60047.
Tel: 847-719-5900, Fax: 847-719-5999, email:
info@smalley.com or visit www.smalley.com.

154
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
LAURENCE CLAUS HOT FORGING FASTENERS from page 96
FIGURE 3: COMPLETED STRUCTURAL NUTS EMERGING
FROM THE HOT HEADER
The Process
The process can be split into two different categories;
high speed and lower speed. The high speed processes
are pretty close in comparison with cold heading, utilizing
continuous raw material coils, automated feeding, and
high speed equipment. The result is a process producing
high part yields. They may utilize a simple approach of
adding heat with an induction coil to just a selected
portion of the raw material wire prior to the blank being
cut-off (Figure 1) or utilize a more sophisticated approach
of heating the entire raw material wire section just prior
to cut-off and carefully controlling the temperature across
all the die stations (Figure 2). Even though parts now
have the benefit of heat, machine size is still a limiting
factor as heat does not infinitely expand the machine
capabilities and most machines are capable of producing
only marginally larger parts than what can be produced in
cold forming. These processes, however, are well suited
for high volume structural nuts, special high volume
engineered components, and standard titanium fasteners
(Figure 3).
Almost all parts larger than 1 ½” in diameter or very
long in length utilize a lower speed process. In these
instances the blank is prepared from bars cut to discrete
lengths. Each blank is cut to length using a power shear
or a metal cutting band saw. All the blanks needed to fulfill
the order are normally cut and staged prior to forming. The
next step is to get heat into the part where it is needed.
Unlike cold forming, where many geometry changes may
be taking place, when hot forming large parts normally
only a head or other unique feature is formed. This means
that only a selected area of the part (typically one end
only) needs to be heated. This is accomplished with the
operator placing that end of the blank into an induction
coil or a small forge to heat up the area in interest. The
operators will usually time or measure temperature to
establish that the desired temperature has been reached.
Depending on the length and geometry of the part, the
operator will grab the unheated end with their hands or
a set of tongs or crane and quickly transfer the blank to
the forming press. These presses may be set-up vertically
or horizontally. Once introduced to the die, the press is
cycled, striking the part and forming the shape that is in
the die (Figure 4).
FIGURE 4: HOT FORMED PART BEING REMOVED FROM THE DIE
CONTINUED ON PAGE 180

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 155
Lindfast Solutions Group is pleased to
announce the promotion of Darlene Collis to
the role of Vice President of Quality for LindFast
Solutions Group (LSG) effective immediately.
Darlene has most recently been serving as
the Quality Manager at Solution Industries. Her
prior experience also includes key roles at
Allegheny Coatings, NOF Metal Coatings North
America, and Curtis Metal Finishing Company.
Additionally, she holds a Bachelor’s degree from
Bowling Green State University.
Darlene has a wealth of knowledge and 23
years of experience with fasteners in various
quality, plating, coatings, and sales roles. She
has successfully led the Solution Industries team
through the AS9100 and ISO 9001 accreditation
process over the last three years. She is also
a long standing member of the ASTM F16
Fastener Committee and has recently joined the
B08 Metallic and Inorganic Coatings standards
committee.
We are very excited to have Darlene leverage
all she has accomplished at Solution and her
incredible skillset to the broader LindFast team.
We are confident her leadership and efforts will
continue to help drive exceptional growth for
LSG and be a critical component of our value
proposition to all of our customers.
LindFast provides an important link in the
fastener supply chain by offering a deep inventory
as a “virtual warehouse” of approximately
130,000 low volume, slow moving SKUs that
distribution customers need quickly but are noneconomical
to inventory and source ourselves.
In addition LindFast provides our distribution
customers a range of value-added services such
as break bulk, packaging, kitting, plating, coating,
and guaranteed stock programs, among others.
For more information, contact Lindfast Solutions
Groups at 2950 100th Court NE, Blaine, MN 55449.
Tel: 1-800-328-2430, Email: sales@lindfastgrp.
com or visit them online at www.lindfastgrp.com.

156
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
MID-ATLANTIC FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION
3211 West 9th Street, Trainer, PA 19061
TEL 610-430-8615 (Lubker Distribution) EMAIL info@mafda.com WEB www.mafda.com
THE MAFDA HOLIDAY & SCHOLARSHIP PARTY
by Bill Bankoske, President
The 2021 MAFDA Christmas Gala will be remembered
as the first gathering for the Mid-Atlantic area coming out
of the epidemic. A crowd of over 60 industry members
gathered to celebrate the passing of 2021 and renew
their relationships for 2022.
With over 40 distributor attendees and a good mix
of suppliers and reps it was a great opportunity to mix
and mingle with industry ownership and management
eveveverv evevCompanies were represented from
Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania,
Delaware and Maryland, it was an event that spanned
borders and brought the best from a wide area.
The MAFDA board of directors and all party goers
send out a special thanks to our sponsors for making
this night possible. Without their generous support the
night of festivities would be impossible.
Please remember each sponsor as business
opportunities arise.
Gold Sponsors
¤ Brighton-Best Int’l
¤ Stelfast Inc
¤ Kanebridge Corporation
¤ XL Screw Corporation
¤ ND Industries
¤ The Hanson Group
¤ Ford Fasteners
¤ Star Stainless
¤ Vertex Distribution
¤ Ironclad
Silver Sponsors
¤ Computer Insights
¤ R & D Fasteners
¤ Sems & Specials
¤ BBC Fasteners
¤ McCormick Associates
¤ Murty Associates
¤ R.W. Rundle Associates
Bronze Sponsors
¤ Lee Johnson Associates
¤ G.L. Huyett
The Brandywine Prime venue once again provided a
5 star experience with a variety of butlered appetizers, a
top shelf open bar and a full 3 course dinner of steak and
salmon. A finishing touch of NY cheesecake drizzled with
raspberry made the evening. Judging by the empty plates
the repast was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone.
Our raffle offered enough awards so every attendee
was a winner. In addition a photographer provided on-thespot
pictures to be taken home so everyone received a
picture highlighting the night. Overall the crowd left with
many mementos of the evening.
Through the generosity of sponsors and attendees
the MAFDA raised over $3,000 for the scholarship fund for
children of the member companies and proudly continues
to bring education and opportunity to our industry and our
families. Please remember too have all eligible children
get their applications in this year!
Overall it was an extraordinary year for our industry,
with historic highs and devastating lows. Now is the time
to renew relationships and move your business forward.
As we move into 2022 please reach out to the MAFDA and
join in the industry’s premier events.
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
MID-ATLANTIC FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION

MID-ATLANTIC FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION
2021 HOLIDAY GALA
CONTINUED ON PAGE 163

158
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
ROB LaPOINTE FASTENER SCIENCE: HOW TIGHT IS RIGHT TIGHT? from page 98
FIGURE 5 TENSION INDICATING DEVICES INSTALLED IN BOLTS
KNOWN AS THE MAXBOLT BY VALLEY FORGE & BOLT.
It’s essentially a variation on Hooke’s law F = kx,
where F is the force of tension, k is the spring constant
and x is the amount of stretch. This relationship must
be developed and modeled mathematically to derive the
tension from the change in length for a particular fastener.
The changed length can be measured in a variety of
different ways including an application of a strain gauge
such as those developed by Valley Forge & Bolt (Figure
5), an application of sound ranging (Figure 7), or directly
measuring the length change of the bolt using calipers,
micrometers, indicators, or other suitable instrumentation
(Figure 6).
Determining the tension in a fastener by the amount
of torque applied to tighten it uses an established torquetension
relationship. Mathematically, the torque-tension
relationship is a direct relationship between torque
and tension and is similar to Hooke’s law above. The
simplified torque-tension relationship is F = / Kd, where
F is the force of tension, (the Greek letter tau) is torque
applied, K is a value representing the total resistance to
FIGURE 7 ULTRASONIC BOLT TENSION INSTRUMENT.
torque, and d is the nominal diameter of the fastener. This
method is the most used method for correctly tensioning a
bolt so I will develop this method most completely.
A correct application of the torque-tension relationship
is largely governed by correctly measuring the value K,
known as K-factor. The K-factor is a value that represents
the total resistance to torque which includes stretching the
fastener and the coefficient of total friction in a bolted joint.
One frictional component is found between the fastener’s
head or nut, if that’s what’s being turned to tighten, and
the material the head or nut is bearing against. Another
frictional component is between the external and internal
threads. Figure 8 diagrams the frictional components that
make up the K-factor. The K-factor is highly connected
to the bolting and joint materials as well as any surface
treatments done on the fasteners such as lubrication,
plating, coating, carburization or kolsterizing.
FIGURE 6 DETERMINING BOLT TENSION BY MEASURING LENGTH
CHANGE WITH AN INDICATOR.
FIGURE 8 CROSS-SECTION OF INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL BOLTED
JOINT SHOWING FRICTIONAL COMPONENTS IN RED.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 159

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 159
ROB LaPOINTE FASTENER SCIENCE: HOW TIGHT IS RIGHT TIGHT? from page 158
Once the K-factor is known, the torque needed to
acquire the desired tension in the bolted joint can be
calculated. For example, if we have a ½-inch diameter,
grade 8 bolt and nut combination with a determined
K-factor of 0.12, we can use the torque-tension equation
above to calculate the torque needed to achieve this
tension. The ultimate tensile value for a 1/2-13, grade
8 fastener is 21,300 lbf minimum. Using 70% of that
value for our desired tension we get 14,910 lbf.
Using the equation solved for torque,
= KFd,
and substituting our values for the 1/2 inch grade 8,
we get...
= (0.12)(14,910 lbf)(0.5 in) = 984.6 lbf in
The result is given in pound inch units but can be
converted into pound foot units by dividing by 12. This
gives us 74.6 lbf ft of torque needed to tension this
fastener to 70 % of ultimate tensile. I have checked this
relationship many times by placing the bolt in a direct
tension device (Figure 2) and it is very accurate.
No matter how you determine right-tight for your
fastener application, you must be confident in the tools
and methods used to get the correct tension. The
quality of your bolted joint depends on correct tensioning
whether by feel, instrumentation or calculation.
For questions or additional information, contact me
at robl@aimtestlab.com, visit www.aimtestlab.com or call
(619) 396-2046.
ROB LaPOINTE / AIM TESTING LABORATORY

160
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
CHRIS DONNELL 2022 TRANSPORTATION AND SUPPLY CHAIN OUTLOOK from page 100
Imagine If The ILWU Decided To Strike
The current ILWU (International Longshoreman and
Warehouse Union) master contract is set to expire on July
1st 2022, and based on the position of the PMA (Pacific
Maritime Association), this could be a stalemate of epic
scale given the current transportation industry. Should
there be a work slow down or stoppage this could deal
a knock-out blow to the transportation industry. Back in
2014/15 the negotiations resulted in a strike that lasted
6 weeks, however, it took upwards of 4 months to dig
everything out. If a strike or work slowdown were to take
place today, the chaos would echo throughout the globe,
decimate our national supply chain (whatever is left of it)
and plunge us into one of the worst economic recessions
of the past 100 years. Keep your eyes on this one.
Rail/Intermodal
[a] The rail or intermodal industry continues to
struggle, however, with several ocean carriers continuing
to refuse inland cargo we are seeing few issues with
the rail. Further, while the ports of Los Angeles, Long
Beach and even Seattle are incredibly congested, the
rail carriers are operating at peak capacity and making a
dent in the long-standing cargo at the ports.
[b] Conversely, for inland rail terminals, especially
places like Chicago, Kansas City, Memphis, Dallas and
Atlanta, importers and exporters haven’t seen much
improvement. Congestion and equipment shortages,
driver detention and other issues are still hindering the
terminals from functioning at peak output. Factor in the
weather in places in the Midwest and it only further
complicates the situation.
Warehousing/CFS Stations And Airline
Terminals Will Continue To Struggle As They
Are Positioned At Or Near The Tail End Of
The Supply Chain
[a] Available warehouse space in Los Angeles,
Atlanta, Seattle and Chicago is reportedly less than 1%
and it has been that way for the past eight months. Most
warehouse leasing companies have a backlog of orders
for space and what does come available is filled within
days of being on the market.
[b] CFS Stations (Consolidated Freight Stations) are
not out of the woods as we are receiving reports across
the country of CFS stations being backed up for two to
three weeks before being able to pull containers from the
port or rail ramp and unload them. This adds to the total
costs, all of which are being pushed on the importer.
[c] Airline terminals continue to be rocked by a
surge in demand which is forecasted to not let up until
2023. Air imports have increased an average of 5% over
2020 levels even though the vast majority of carriers
are working with less than 50% of their overall capacity
due to travel restrictions, flight cancelations, and the
grounding of a large portion of the airlines global fleet.
Trucking In The USA!!!
This seems to be the hot topic of the day, especially
when you factor in what is happening on the Windsor,
Canada border.
[a] More than 5,000 truckers have created a
blockade for cargo entering and exiting between Canada
and the United States in response to the stringent mask
mandates enacted for entering Canada.
[b] Rumor has it that this is set to trickle into the
United States. I have received multiple emails stating
that the trucking industry is going to conduct a convoy
traveling across the United States starting on March 1st
- which if this where to take place could cripple supply
chains nationwide. Grocery store, gas station and water
shortages may be the result.
Summary
Overall, I think I’ve painted a pretty good (if not
possibly grim) picture of what importers, exporters,
and manufacturers can expect in 2022. If I could pass
along some advice, it would be this: Put a value on your
relationship with your logistics provider. Ensure you’re
in constant communication with them, forecast out a
minimum of 1 month to ensure space and capacity
is available when needed, and turn over every stone
when it comes to strategizing. It’s not easy out there,
especially when you’re on the ground floor watching
the transportation industry continue this path down the
rabbit hole.
CHRIS DONNELL

162
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
LARRY BOROWSKI GAGING SYSTEMS - PART 2: SYSTEM 22 from page 108
Internal Threads, ASME B1.3 – 2007 Table 4
In this table you will find that System 22 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.
Note: An internal thread smaller than a #10 or M5 is not
required to be evaluated/inspected by system 22 gaging.
SAE AS8879, Table 8 states; For internal threads of nominal
size less than .1900 inch, only the functional diameter limit
and minor diameter limit inspections are to be performed.
ASME B1.2 states; Internal product threads less than 3/16
in. in diameter are not practical to check with snap gages or
indicating gages.
GO Maximum Material
¤ Go Threaded Plug Gage (Full form Go plug gage
for MJ only).
¤ 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.
¤ Thread Measuring balls with suitable measuring
means
¤ Linear Measuring Machine with required
accessories
¤ Coordinate Measuring Machine with required
accessories.
Note: You are checking the Pitch Diameter, by isolating
a single thread at a time and using some type of direct
measurement gage. An actual value is required.
Minor Diameter
¤ Full Form Go Thread Plug (MJ only)
¤ 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.
Minimum Material (Pitch Diameter, Groove
Diameter)
Note: Not Go functional diameter is another option,
but control of lead (including helix) and Flank Angle (over
the length of the full thread) must also be demonstrated.
This option is only acceptable by agreement between
purchaser and supplier.
¤ Thread indicating gages, minimum material, pitch
diameter type (cone and vee) with either 120 or
180 degree contact points.
¤ Thread indicating gages, minimum material,
thread groove diameter type (cone or best wire
size radius profile) with either 120 or 180 degree
contact points.
¤ Pitch Micrometer with Modified Contacts
(approximately pitch diameter contact) Cone and Vee
TYPICAL INTERNAL VARIABLE THREAD GAGE – “BI-POINT” GAGE
System 22 measurements require more than just
pass/fail results, some characteristics require a
numerical value. Remember that the lists of gages above
are all the acceptable forms of gaging that can be used
to check a characteristic. Acceptance by any one gage
in current calibration specified for a characteristic shall
be the criterion for acceptance of that characteristic.
LARRY BOROWSKI | GREENSLADE & COMPANY INC

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 163
MID-ATLANTIC FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION
2021 HOLIDAY GALA

164
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
BRUNO MARBACHER DRIVING SYSTEMS FOR FASTENERS – TAMPERPROOF DRIVES from page 110
Snake-Eyes Screws (2-Hole Drive)
This Type is known under
various names, Snake-Eyes,
2-hole, twin hole screws.
screw drive uses two round
holes (sometimes two slots),
the same driver bits work
in both types opposite each
other and is designed to prevent tampering. The driving
tool is called a “spanner driver” or “spanner screwdriver
in the US, and a “pin spanner” in the UK. It may
be seen in elevators and restrooms in the United
States. The US military’s M17 and M18 service pistols
(variants of the SIG Sauer P320) use spanner screws to
dissuade disassembly of the handgun beyond normal
field maintenance.
Avsafe Security Screws (Oval Pan Drive)
Oval Pan Security Screws
(Avsafe screws) have a slightly
out of round shaped head
with beveled sides to prevent
removal with conventional
tools. An installed Avsafe
screw looks like a rivet or nail
head. it appears decorative,
recessing it in counterbore
makes this one extremely difficult to tamper with.
Tricone Security Bolts (Pig Nose Drive)
The Tricone security bolts
are furnished with three
equally spaced blind holes,
formed into the head, with
a cone projection protruding
from each of the holes. The
patented design makes
removal of the fastener extremely difficult. A special tool
is required to fasten and remove the screw. They are
individually coded and registered against each customer
for be fully traceable, to ensure the integrity of the drive
is not compromised. For this reason, Tricone screws and
tools are only available to end users; resale is prohibited.
Recessing the head make the screw even more secure.
Ultra-Lok (Custom Designed)
Ultra-lok and Ultra-lok II
are custom-designed drives,
necessitating matching drivers
which are only available
directly from the manufacturer
and only supplied to registered
owners, similar to keyed locks.
The Ultra-Lok, and Ultra-Lok II are some of these designs
that use custom keyed drivers, which tend to be confined
to industrial and institutional uses that are unavailable to
the average amateur.
Key-Rex Drive (Custom Designed)
Key-Rex screws are another
tamperproof design, which
is used on items such as
ballot boxes and bank vaults.
The unique keyway shape is
created using an encryption
process that builds the profile
shape out of millions of
variables and defines an unequaled keyway shape.
Customers pay for a one-time key code tool and licensing
agreement. The head is specially designed oval head,
preventing it from being loosened by plyers, nevertheless
countersinking them will further improve its resistance to
tampering.
Torq-Set (Cruciform Drive)
Torq-set is a cruciform
screw drive The Torq-set head
is similar in appearance to a
Phillips drive in that it has a
cross with 4 arms. In Torq-set
however, the lines are offset
from each other, so they do
not align to form intersecting slots across the top of the
head. Because of this, a regular Phillips or flat-blade
screwdriver will not fit the head. It is used in military
and aerospace applications. Tampering is still possible
under certain circumstances. Tri-Wing screws are similar
to Torq-set, they are recommended for low security risk
applications.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 182

166
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
ROBERT FOOTLIK TRUST BUT VERIFY from page 116
One way of gaining their attention is by soliciting
input from everyone on ways to raise quality to new
levels while tracking the results. Implement their
best ideas and post all information and results in an
easily understandable format and language. Customer
involvement can be achieved simply by adding a note,
“This order was 100% inspected as part of our continuing
program for always achieving 100% quality.” to any
carton that is randomly inspected. To get the recipients
involved in reporting problems add a phono and a name
on the quality assurance card and record all customer
interactions, both positive and negative.
Depending on the group dynamics and reaction
this step can be concurrent or an add on at any time.
Realistically at the minimum you will need at least two
months to gain acceptance and build trust both in house
and with the customer base.
Don’t Trust…Still Verify
Ever have a customer who found fault with every
single order? This could happen if someone internal to
your organization is deliberately sabotaging the orders.
Or, the problem could be on the customer’s side where
their staff is stealing the merchandise. Statistical
sampling is ae easy and quick way to develop some
suspicions, or even stop the theft on the customer’s
dock. The same card or note that is added to inspected
boxes can have a deterrent effect, especially if you notify
the customer’s quality personal to watch of these cards.
Posting the QC Sampling Notice as a label on the outside
of the cartons is a great deterrent.
Other Physical Steps
Still nervous about trusting the personnel to get
the right materials in the right box? Hedge your
bet with simple bar code labels on your racks and
shelving. These can be produced in house using any
ink jet or laser printer with the location and normally
stocked product expressed in both English and machine
language. Remember that similar labeling already exists
either as a vendor printed code or UPC in a standard
location on master cases (side) and inners (top flap) in a
usable format.
Purchase appropriate readers for both UPC and Code
39 (typical for the industry) with simple programming that
will allow for matching bar codes on racks with the ones
on the products. The purpose of simple, stand-alone
bar code reading is to verify both stocking and picking.
While wireless connectivity to a main server is great,
it isn’t necessary for verification purposes. The costs
and efforts can be minimal, with simple implementation,
but your peace of mind will make the payback virtually
instantaneous. Doing this by using a bar or QR code
program on a cell phone can take the identifiable
payback to days, not months.
The easiest place to start is stocking. Essentially, a
stocker verifies the code on the product or paper work
with a label on the rack, bin or shelf. Get this process
under control and then add picking, physical inventory,
checking and other functions. As a stand-alone process
this sets the stage for installing a new Warehouse
Management System (WMS) and can gain perhaps 50%
to 80% of the benefits before making any substantial
software investments. It will take at least two months
for any bar code label program to be usable so starting
on this in the near future is imperative.
If the Pick-Pack personnel needs to bring boxes with
them while picking. at some point you need to identify
the shipping carton type usage to determine what
cartons (and quantity) should be stocked strategically in
the warehouse and bungeed to their carts. While initially
the current pick carts and cartons can be utilized they
are not necessarily optimal for pick/pack. Self forming
bottoms for the cartons and a more user friendly cart
should be investigated. Reutilizing incoming random
cartons is still feasible, but not recommended.
A future article will discuss the personnel and
compensation issues involved in Pick-Pack operations.
Never mess with people’s paychecks until everyone in
the operation has reached a very high level of trust.
Saving time and labor in the warehouse provides an
opportunity for “gain sharing” where both individuals and
teams are rewarded. This is where the ultimate payback
is generated.
ROBERT FOOTLIK

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 167
Distribution One a leading provider of
ERP distribution software solutions, proudly
announces the newly redesigned website
showcasing the new release of ERP-ONE
distribution software as well as customer
testimonials, informational resources, and the
new spotlight on user roles.
The user-friendly website serves visitors
holding prior experience with ERP (Enterprise
Resource Planning) software as well as those
exploring the company-wide benefits of ERP for
the first time. Those new to ERP software will
enjoy the ERP Learning Path covering topics like
software evaluation, scalability, differentiation
from accounting systems, and more.
Experienced distributors can view individual
program functionality featuring screencaps from
the new ERP-ONE software.
In addition, a new feature on the website
provides an overview of specific role-based user
activities like Financial Management, Inventory
Management, Sales, and more by showcasing
some of the programs that users rely upon
to fulfill these daily responsibilities. The
Distribution One website also shares valuable
content including the company’s news and blog,
an events calendar, white papers, customer
success stories, and more.
“Just as our user-friendly ERP-ONE software
simplifies the complex,” explains Distribution
One President Larry Ward, “We’ve built our
website to deliver information to help visitors
understand how our innovations in ERP and
integrated E-Commerce will help simplify their
jobs and make their companies more profitable.
For over 25 years, this customer-centric
approach has been the force driving Distribution
One innovations.”
As a leading end-to-end ERP distribution
software resource for wholesalers and distributors
across industries including fasteners, industrial
supply, Jan/San, fine paper, and more, the
2022 Distribution One website expands on our
ongoing commitment to provide educational
resources and a positive user experience to
every visitor.
Distribution One is an industry-leading developer
of innovative customer-centric ERP software
designed specifically for the needs of wholesalers
and distributors.
Formed in 1996 with offices in New Jersey
and Texas, Distribution One is comprised of a
team of experienced ERP specialists who thrive
on providing solutions and US-based support to
customers across North America and into Europe.
The turnkey Cloud and On-Premise ERP-ONE
business software delivers intuitive, end-to-end
distribution process functionality that improves
company-wide productivity and profitability.
Supplemental features include integrated
E-Commerce, Amazon connectivity, Credit Card
processing, Sales Tax Compliance, Shipping
integrations, Wireless Warehousing, and Mobile
Apps.
For more information contact Distribution One by
Tel: 1-856-380-0629, email: info@distone.com or
visit them online at www.distone.com.

168
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
COMPUTER INSIGHTS INC. CERTIFICATE MANAGEMENT: STOP MISTAKES AND SAVES TIME from page 120
SALES ORDERS WITH SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
Each sales order will default to the customer’s
requirements based on the products entered. Once a
product is added to an order, the requirements can be
changed whenever the customer requires something
different than their usual. When allocating lots, the
system has the ability to not allow a lot that does not
fulfill the customer’s requirements. Certificates can be
printed or emailed automatically with the packing list
and invoice. System and customer level flags ensure you
meet your customers’ requirements.
What People Are Saying
“The Business Edge’s TM
documentConnection TM
has shaved hours PER WEEK off my Certification
Management duties. The ease of uploading test reports
while receiving a PO, even direct from your vendors,
makes for a smooth, no-brainer operation. When you
have “non-connected” vendors, it’s just as easy to do
with a scanner - AGAIN - while still receiving your PO! It’s
SO EASY! We really like the professional look it sends to
OUR customers—sending a clean and clear cert packet
with their invoice. Our customers appreciate not having
to track down an MTR because it is attached right to
their invoice. All in one task! TBE claims that it is a timesaver;
their certificate management features are a great
example of this motto! Thank you, TBE, for saving me a
lot of time and headaches!”
Rick Fisher, Purchasing & Inside Sales
Fastco, Inc.
“The Business Edge TM is THE software for the fastener
distribution industry. Computer Insights understands
the needs of our industry and delivers the software
necessary to run a successful business. We moved from
two different systems, one of them very powerful but
antiquated and the other was brand new but bloated.
TBE is the perfect middle ground, it has everything we
need without the extra bloat. With ease, we can manage
inventory, including document management for drawings
and certs. VMI customers are consistently impressed
at the level and detail of data we can provide via TBE
reporting to help them reduce inventory turns. On top of
it all, the staff at Computer Insights is knowledgeable
when support is needed and listens to their customers
when there is a suggestion for improvement.”
Jeff Kempka, President
Global Fastener & Supply
“Donnie, Billy and I still consider our trip to Chicago
in the fall of 2007, on a Saturday to learn about The
Business Edge TM
(appropriately named) software and
the subsequent first check write to become a partner
with Computer Insights, Inc. was one of the very best
business decisions we have made to date! Our deepest
thanks go out to you, your Dad, Ms. Diane and your
staff, a first-class company run by first-class people that
produce first-class results”
Robert Lomas
LTR Fastener & Supply
Conclusion
SIMPLE, FOCUSED, & EFFECTIVE
The Business Edge TM
is designed exclusively for
fastener distributors, and the Certificate Management
System is just one more example of how it is saving
companies time and money. The Certificate Management
System makes necessary steps easier and eliminates
nonessential steps. The system automates many
processes without the need for human intervention.
Countless hours of tedious, boring, and unproductive
work disappear. Customers continue to demand more
customer service from their suppliers. The Business
Edge TM
helps companies do more, in less time, with
fewer people.
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.

170
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
NORTH COAST FASTENER ASSOCIATION
7737 Ellington Place, Mentor, OH 44060
TEL 440-975-9503 FAX 440-350-1676 EMAIL lgraham@ncfaonline.com WEB www.ncfaonline.com
NCFA HOLDS ANNUAL HOLIDAY BASH
by Mike Robinson, Vice President
If you were in the Cleveland area on Thursday,
December 2, 2021, the NCFA Holiday Bash was the place
to be! After not having a Holiday Party in 2020, NCFA
members made sure to double down on the fun this year
at Cleveland’s Top Golf. We had golfers, non-golfers,
people watchers, and fastener friends come out in droves
for this event. We couldn’t have been happier with our
choice of venue, as there were activities everyone could
participate in. We had about 50 of our fastener friends in
attendance and by the amount of laughter and cheering
heard throughout the night, everyone had a good time.
Top Golf offered various games to play, so many of
our non-golfers even picked
up a club and swung for
the fences! Brighton-Best
International donated a
great Callaway Golf bag to
be awarded to the highest
score of the night. It was a
very close race that included
Dan Harrington from G.L.
Huyett, Steve Delis from
Fastener Tool, Marty Nolan
from R.L. English, and Dan
Jaram from Brighton-Best all within 4 points of each
other! The big winner of the night was Tony Martinez from
Buckeye Fastener. He was able to take home the great
golf swag from BBI. Thank you to all our sponsors for this
event and everyone that came out! We are all looking
forward to seeing everyone again this year!!
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
NORTH COAST FASTENER ASSOCIATION

NORTH COAST FASTENER ASSOCIATION 40th
ANNIVERSARY
EVENT PHOTOS OVER THE YEARS
CONTINUED ON PAGE 185

172
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
GUY AVELLON WHAT FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FAST FASTENER FACTS AND ANSWERS from page 122
[25] Clamp load must always exceed the service
load.
a. If not, the joint will either loosen or fail from metal
fatigue.
[26] Torque is a function of friction and only evaluates
torsional friction; keep all surfaces consistent.
a. Torquing a ‘dry’ fastener and a ‘lubricated’ fastener
with the same torque will result in the dry fastener having
a much lower clamp load than the other.
[27] The only time a torque wrench is accurate is
when the fastener is lubricated.
a. This is because friction is kept at a constant, not
a variable.
[28] A lubricated fastener will take less torque than
dry to achieve the same clamp load.
a. Lubricants reduce friction, so it takes less torque
(friction) to tighten.
[29] All metal prevailing torque lock nuts take less
torque to tighten than a standard hex nut.
a. All of these products are coated with a wax finish
to reduce the prevailing torque drag friction caused by
the locking feature.
[30] Never tighten a lubricated fastener without
using the proper torque value for that lubricant.
a. Some lubricants are more ‘slippery’ than others.
All types are different.
b. Too high a torque with a very efficient lubricant
will cause the fastener to be stretched into yield (UNC)
or to strip threads (UNF).
[31] A lubricated fastener will not vibrate loose any
more than a dry fastener if the proper torque has been
applied.
a. A lubricated fastener can produce greater and
more consistent clamp loads than non-lubricated
fasteners. Naturally, if the clamp load is higher, it is
more resistant to vibrational loosening.
[32] Keep procedures consistent.
[33] Never use torque as an ‘audit’ to check for joint
preload: there are too many variables and it is inaccurate.
a. Variables include overcoming rust, paint or
embedment. It is not a true indicator.
[34] If the tightening motion has stopped below
the desired torque value, tightening may continue safely
forwards, never backwards.
a. Loosening a nut will create extra friction between
the threads affecting torque, which will be less than
desired and can never be regained.
[35] The faster the nut and/or bolt are tightened,
the greater the joint relaxation.
a. The increase in speed causes more joint
compression, hence the relaxation. It is an elastic
rebound effect.
[36] Torque is not affected by socket extensions.
[37] Torque is affected by handle length extensions.
[38] Tapped holes, such as engine blocks, are
considered ‘wet’ torques by OEM.
[39] Metal prevailing torque lock nuts are reusable,
nylon insert nuts are not.
a. Prevailing torque lock nuts have a lubricant
applied which reduces thread friction.
b. A nylon nut is like a standard nut, it has dry
threads which promote an increase in friction and an
increase in torque.
[40] Never reuse a bolt in a critical application.
a. There may be stress cracks that are not visible.
[41] Never reuse a nut.
a. Nuts have a finite life.
b. Damaged internal threads are common but not
always visible.
[42] If one fastener fails in a multiple fastener
assembly, replace the adjacent fasteners.
a. The loads have shifted and are forcing the
adjacent fasteners to absorb greater loads which will
lead to their failure as well.
[43] If more than one fastener fails in a multiple
fastener assembly, replace all of the fasteners.
[44] Keep it clean.
[45] Keep it tight.
[46] Keep an eye on it.
[47] Fasteners are the least expensive commodity
product holding everything together:
When in Doubt, Throw it Out!
GUY AVELLON

172
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
GUY AVELLON WHAT FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FAST FASTENER FACTS AND ANSWERS from page 124
[25] Clamp load must always exceed the service
load.
a. If not, the joint will either loosen or fail from metal
fatigue.
[26] Torque is a function of friction and only evaluates
torsional friction; keep all surfaces consistent.
a. Torquing a ‘dry’ fastener and a ‘lubricated’ fastener
with the same torque will result in the dry fastener having
a much lower clamp load than the other.
[27] The only time a torque wrench is accurate is
when the fastener is lubricated.
a. This is because friction is kept at a constant, not
a variable.
[28] A lubricated fastener will take less torque than
dry to achieve the same clamp load.
a. Lubricants reduce friction, so it takes less torque
(friction) to tighten.
[29] All metal prevailing torque lock nuts take less
torque to tighten than a standard hex nut.
a. All of these products are coated with a wax finish
to reduce the prevailing torque drag friction caused by
the locking feature.
[30] Never tighten a lubricated fastener without
using the proper torque value for that lubricant.
a. Some lubricants are more ‘slippery’ than others.
All types are different.
b. Too high a torque with a very efficient lubricant
will cause the fastener to be stretched into yield (UNC)
or to strip threads (UNF).
[31] A lubricated fastener will not vibrate loose any
more than a dry fastener if the proper torque has been
applied.
a. A lubricated fastener can produce greater and
more consistent clamp loads than non-lubricated
fasteners. Naturally, if the clamp load is higher, it is
more resistant to vibrational loosening.
[32] Keep procedures consistent.
[33] Never use torque as an ‘audit’ to check for joint
preload: there are too many variables and it is inaccurate.
a. Variables include overcoming rust, paint or
embedment. It is not a true indicator.
[34] If the tightening motion has stopped below
the desired torque value, tightening may continue safely
forwards, never backwards.
a. Loosening a nut will create extra friction between
the threads affecting torque, which will be less than
desired and can never be regained.
[35] The faster the nut and/or bolt are tightened,
the greater the joint relaxation.
a. The increase in speed causes more joint
compression, hence the relaxation. It is an elastic
rebound effect.
[36] Torque is not affected by socket extensions.
[37] Torque is affected by handle length extensions.
[38] Tapped holes, such as engine blocks, are
considered ‘wet’ torques by OEM.
[39] Metal prevailing torque lock nuts are reusable,
nylon insert nuts are not.
a. Prevailing torque lock nuts have a lubricant
applied which reduces thread friction.
b. A nylon nut is like a standard nut, it has dry
threads which promote an increase in friction and an
increase in torque.
[40] Never reuse a bolt in a critical application.
a. There may be stress cracks that are not visible.
[41] Never reuse a nut.
a. Nuts have a finite life.
b. Damaged internal threads are common but not
always visible.
[42] If one fastener fails in a multiple fastener
assembly, replace the adjacent fasteners.
a. The loads have shifted and are forcing the
adjacent fasteners to absorb greater loads which will
lead to their failure as well.
[43] If more than one fastener fails in a multiple
fastener assembly, replace all of the fasteners.
[44] Keep it clean.
[45] Keep it tight.
[46] Keep an eye on it.
[47] Fasteners are the least expensive commodity
product holding everything together:
When in Doubt, Throw it Out!
GUY AVELLON

174
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
AMERICAN BELLEVILLE NOT ALL BELLEVILLE WASHERS OR DISC SPRINGS ARE THE SAME from page 68
We don’t simply leave it up to our clients to determine
if our product works for them. American Belleville will
work to understand exactly how the Belleville washer
or Disc Spring will be used in your specific application.
Then, we will ensure that we provide you with the
engineered solution you need. We take great care
and pride in producing our Belleville washers and Disc
Springs because we understand the important tasks that
are required of them. Read more about partnering with
American Belleville.
The American Belleville Difference
When working with American Belleville, you can
expect to receive the best products and service because
we understand your individual goals and requirements.
We have done extensive research to determine the most
historically-prevalent pain points in procuring our products,
as well as those similar. Our team strives to provide you
with these five essential items, the tenets of our Total
Customer Experience, during every interaction:
¤ Accuracy ¤ Expediency
¤ Reliability ¤ Quality
¤ Ease
When sourcing Belleville washers and Disc Springs,
you want to work with reliable vendors who solve your
problems with great care, accuracy, and in a timely fashion
with a high-quality solution. But don’t just take our word for
it; let our track record tell the story. We have consistently
exceeded 99% product accuracy and on-time delivery, since
Day 1. Simply put, we do what we say we’ll do.
Our Total Customer Experience
Nearly every customer has become a repeat customer
because of our Total Customer Experience. When you
reach out for help, we put all else aside to establish a
laser focus on immediately solving your problem. Whether
your problem is related to quality, availability, design
uncertainty, finding a competitively-priced solution, or a
combination thereof, we know your time is valuable, and
you shouldn’t have to ask for the same thing twice.
AMERICAN BELLEVILLE
GLOBALFASTENERNEWS.COM STAINLESS STEEL SHORTAGE: NO CHANGE UNTIL MORE PRODUCTION from page 126
Andindya Barman of Zacks described the steel
industry as coming “roaring back in 2021 after bearing
the brunt of the pandemic last year, taking succor from
a strong revival in end-market demand and an upswing in
steel prices.”
“The pandemic put most commodities on a slippery
ground last year and steel was no exception. A slowdown
in demand across major end-use industries put a dent
on the steel industry for much of the first half of 2020,”
Barman wrote. “In particular, the pandemic dealt a fresh
blow to the U.S. steel industry, which reeled under the
effects of the U.S.-China tariff war.”
Demand for steel picked up on the resumption of
operations across major steel-consuming sectors such
as automotive, construction and machinery, following
the easing of lockdowns and restrictions globally. Steel
prices have also witnessed an unprecedented surge this
year on the back of an upturn in demand across key
markets, tight supply conditions and low steel inventory
throughout the supply chain.
Stocks of several steel companies “popped this
year driven by the positive momentum of the industry.”
Barman cited Commercial Metals Company, EVRAZ plc
and U.S. Steel Corp. as notable.
“The rebound across major end-use industries such as
construction and automotive represents a tailwind for the
steel industry,” Barman wrote. “However, the rapid spread
of the Omicron variant of coronavirus may disrupt economic
activities and impact steel demand over the near term.
The $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill President
Joe Biden signed “is expected to be a significant catalyst
for the American steel industry and U.S. HRC prices
in 2022”. The bill includes about $550 billion in new
spending on roads, bridges, tunnels and the electric grid,
as well as airports, broadband and other infrastructure
improvements.
GLOBALFASTENERNEWS.COM

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 175

176
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
SPIROL HOW TO DETERMINE THE PROPER DISC SPRING STACK CONFIGURATION from page 128
Shorter stacks are more efficient, which is of
particular importance for dynamic applications. As a
result of friction between the Disc Springs as well as
the guiding mandrel or sleeve, the Disc Springs at the
moving end of the stack tend to deflect more than the
Disc Springs at the opposite end. Using the largest
practical diameter Disc Spring will reduce the number
of Disc Springs per stack, and the total stack height.
It is recommended that the overall stack height does
not exceed 3 times the external diameter of the Disc
Spring or 10 Discs in series. If the application requires,
taller stacks can be divided with flat washers to provide
stability.
The stability of a Disc Spring with a thickness of 1mm
or less can present a problem at the bearing surfaces.
In such cases, it is recommended that intermediate flat
Discs/Washers are used with outside diameter contact.
Once the Disc Spring stack has been aligned, a light
preload should be applied to keep the stack in position.
If this is not possible, the stack should be taken to flat
condition at least once, as this also has the effect of
centralizing the Disc Springs.
Stack Guidance
To keep the Disc Springs in position the stacks need
guiding. The preferred method is internal guidance, such
as a rod/mandrel, through the inside diameter. In the
case of external guiding, a sleeve is suggested. In either
case, the guiding component should be case hardened
to 58 HRC with a depth of not less than 0.6mm with a
surface finish of ≤ 4 microns. Since the diameter of the
Discs change when compressed, the following clearance
values are recommended:
Progressive Load Curves
Progressive loading can be obtained by assembling
the stacks in which the Disc Springs will deflect
consecutively when loaded, by:
¤ Stacking single, double and triple parallel sets
in series.
¤ Stacking Disc Springs of various thickness in series.
It is necessary to limit the compression of the
weaker Disc Spring to avoid over-compression while the
stronger Disc Springs, or parallel sets, are still in the
process of compressing.
DISC STACKS WITH PROGRESSIVE CHARACTERISTIC LOAD CURVES AND
STROKE LIMITERS TO AVOID OVERLOAD.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 177

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 177
JOE SASSO LEADERSHIP TODAY: PLEASE STOP! WE ARE STILL BACK IN THE 20th CENTURY from page 140
Satya had been working in India for about 5 years
when he and Jack met. During Jack’s training in India, he
developed a special relationship with Satya. Jack realized
that he and Satya had joined GY Bradley Associates for
the same reason: a desire to work with and lead teams to
higher and higher levels of performance. Jack experienced
Satya as a person who had an almost mystical ability to
inspire people to work together, naturally contributing and
sharing their authentic selves for the benefit of the whole.
Satya often spoke knowingly of how successful
people working in collaboration always accomplished
more for less, faster, easier, and better. Jack had always
been intrigued by this idea and often talked with Satya
about how exactly teams come to work together in such a
fashion. They had even discussed the development of a
model to capture the process.
With the time constraints around this project, Jack
knew exactly who he needed as a partner. He picked
Satya would remark, “Just as Gita and I work together as up the phone and called Satya. After exchanging
one, so to can teams achieve great things because of
their mutual involvement with each other.”
After completing his training in India, Jack continued
to stay in touch with Satya. Jack often found himself
communicating with Satya about a host of people’s
challenges and opportunities. Both Jack and Satya’s
successes at work had always been related to their
interest in nurturing and elevating people. They both
believed in the untapped potential “genius” of the people.
pleasantries, Jack got right to the point. He briefly
explained the project to Satya and asked if he’d be willing
to be the project team’s leader.
Mysteriously, Satya replied, “We’ve been waiting
for your call Jack. Gita and I will be on the next plane to
Chicago.” And even more mysteriously Satya continued,
“We need to talk more about the challenges and
opportunities of this project and YOUR role as the team
leader.”
JOE SASSO
SPIROL HOW TO DETERMINE THE PROPER DISC SPRING STACK CONFIGURATION from page 176
Pre-Stacked
The process of installing Disc Springs stacks
in a production environment is generally a manual
process. Depending on the stack configuration
this is a time-intensive process and introduces an
opportunity for errors in the stack configuration.
Rather than having to configure and stack Disc
Springs manually, manufacturers can specify Pre-
Stacked Disc Springs (greased or ungreased). These
stacks are packed in shrink-wrap with a perforated
tab, allowing a simple installation process that
saves time and helps mistake-proof the assembly
process.
Read how SPIROL Engineers determined
the best Disc Spring stacking methods for
an overload safety switch on SPIROL.com.
SPIROL INTERNATIONAL CORP.

PAC-WEST FASTENER ASSSOCIATON
AFTER HOURS SAN DIEGO - FEBRUARY 10, 2022

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 179
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
PAC-WEST AFTER HOURS NETWORKING EVENTS by Amy Nijjar
Mark Your Calendar Today! We are excited about
the upcoming Pac-West After Hours networking events.
Here’s the schedule:
¤ May 19 – Brea, CA
¤ June 9 – Denver, CO
¤ August 18 – Vancouver, BC
¤ November 17 – Bay Area, CA
We can’t wait to see everyone at these fun and
casual events!
Don’t Miss the Spring Dinner Meeting and Vendor
Showcase on April 12
Pac-West Dinner Program!
It’s time for the next in the series of Pac-West
Dinner Programs. Presenters Mark-Thomas Cordova of
Centennial Bolt, Eunice Hajek of M&M Fasteners Supply,
and Carmen Vertullo of AIM Testing Laboratory will
speak on Building our Workforce for a Successful Future
focusing on recruitment, retention, and growth.
Check our website www.pac-west.org for more details
and to register.
Save The Dates
¤ September 14-17 Fall Conference
Denver, CO
¤ October 6 Fall Dinner Meeting &
Vendor Showcase
La Mirada, CA
For more information about Pac-West contact Amy
Nijjar at 562-799-5509 amy@pac-west.org.
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
PACIFIC-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION

180
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
LAURENCE CLAUS HOT FORGING FASTENERS from page 154
the tool or by the press opening. This makes them good
choices for nuts, short bolts, forming a recess, and for
other short complicated shapes. Unfortunately it is not
a good choice for long parts.
FIGURE 7: EXAMPLE OF HOT FORMING ON HORIZONTAL PRESS
FIGURE 5: PARTS COOLING AFTER FORMING
Often the forming process requires at least two
strikes so that either the part is moved by the operator
from one die to another or the machine can reposition
tooling to strike the part a second time in the same
cycle. The formed part is either ejected or removed by
the operator and placed in a bin or tub to cool down
before moving to the next operation (Figure 5).
Vertical presses can usually apply greater force to the
part (Figure 6). The biggest drawback to a vertical press
is the limited length of part that can be accommodated in
FIGURE 6: EXAMPLE OF HOT FORMING ON VERTICAL PRESS
Horizontal presses make easier candidates for
automated or semi-automated feeding and especially
for long or very heavy parts. In a horizontal press the
tool is a clam shell configuration and closes around the
cylindrical blank (Figure 7). A punch comes in and strikes
the part forming the head (often a hex or carriage bolt
shape). These machines often strike the part twice, with
the second strike creating head markings.
One of the drawbacks of the clamshell die
configuration used on horizontal presses is that parts
often exhibit a die seam just under the head (Figure 8).
This represents where the die was not held perfectly
closed during the forming process. All of the pressure
exerted against the die opens it just a little bit and a
small amount of material flashes in-between. When the
condition is minimal it may just be ignored. If, however,
it is severe it could interfere with the application
clearance hole preventing the part from sitting flat.
This opens a critical joint to all sorts of vulnerabilities
and is not considered good practice. As a result, some
manufacturers machine underneath the head to clean
these discontinuities up. Since vertical press dies do not
split open, this is not a problem characteristic to them.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 184

182
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
BRUNO MARBACHER DRIVING SYSTEMS FOR FASTENERS – TAMPERPROOF DRIVES from page 164
T-Groove Tamper Proof Bolts (3 Grooves)
T-Groove® Security Bolts are
available for screws and nuts,
they are an excellent alternative
to other types of tamper proof
bolts. The Tri-Groove tamper
resistant fastener drive style
also known under the name Tri-Groove, T Groove, Trident
Drive and Coned Trident Drive. Security nuts are installed
using a special Tri Groove socket, which grips the
indentations along the outside of the fastener to turn the
nut along a thread. Tri Groove nuts can only be fastened
with Tri Groove Driver sockets. Socket can be purchased
online making this tamperproof screw less effective.
Security Wave Bolts (Waved Groove)
A Security Wave Bolt is
a highly secure tamper proof
bolt. These tamper proof bolts
can be either supplied with
either a two-way reusable or
one-way permanent security
drive. The unique rounded
design incorporates varying angles and radiuses to
resist against grips such as pliers – making it ideal for
applications where the highest level of security is crucial.
Also available with security wave nuts.
Security wave bolts require a special driver tool which
can be stamped and registered with a customer-specific
reference number – allowing the tool to be tracked to
manufacturers and installers who have purchased the
screws. Manufacturer statement: Under no circumstances
will the tools be sold to ‘non-account’ customers.
Tampering is extremely difficult, counter sinking it will add
another degree of difficulty.
Scroll Nut And Bolts
Scroll Nuts and Scroll Bolts
offer a clever solution for those
situations where you need an
anti-tamper fastener, that can
also be taken apart as the
need arises. The Scroll Nut
or Scroll Bolt is installed and
removed with the help of a special driver. The special
grooves cut into the outer surface of the scroll nut, allows
the nut to be tightened or released. The scroll nut/bolt
can also be made with just a drive groove, converting this
fastener into a one-way bolt or nut. They are also called
Slot-Lok. Again, countersinking the screws increases
tamperproof resistance.
Tamper Proof Locking Lug Nut
Newer vehicles come with
a security lug nut on each
wheel. Sometimes people that
get custom or aftermarket rims
put them on as well. They are
like regular lug nuts but have a
cut out in them and need a key
to be removed. They are used
to deter criminals from stealing
your wheels. The key usually
comes in a set which can be found with the spare tire
or sometimes in the glove box. If the key is lost or gets
broken, the dealer or manufacturer can make a new one.
Tork-Bolts (Break-Away Bolts)
Tork Bolts offer superior
theft resistance. Break-Away
Bolts, Break-off bolts also
known as Shear Bolts can be
installed with a conventional
wrench or socket, They provide
protection against theft, tampering, etc. The hex portion
breaks free from the screw or bolt. The bolt/screw is
properly and permanently installed.
Countersinking the head makes it almost impossible
to tamper. Breakaway Bolts are available in flat head
(countersunk) and button head.
Conclusion
We covered simple to very complex tamperproof screws,
there are additional tamperproof screws available, they
typical only differ slightly from the ones mentioned above.
No tamperproof screw is a 100 % secure, a determined,
creative, “skilled” individual may find a way to remove the
screws.
BRUNO MARBACHER

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 183

184
THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK
LAURENCE CLAUS HOT FORGING FASTENERS from page 180
is heated up in an induction coil and then introduced to
the thread roller. Rolled threads are stronger and have
an advantage in fatigue applications over cut threads.
For this reason, some customers will dictate the process
method for developing the threads.
Threads
FIGURE 8: PARTS COOLING AFTER FORMING
Threads on large diameter, externally threaded
fasteners may be cut or formed. Unlike smaller diameter
parts which most often employ flat thread roll die
technology, large diameter, externally threaded fasteners
that have formed threads usually use large twin die
cylindrical rollers. The unthreaded parts are positioned
between two cylindrical roll dies rotating in opposing
directions. The part is squeezed between these two
dies as they rotate. This is a progressive process with
each rotation forming a little more of the thread. With a
cylindrical roller there are no limits to how many rotations
the part can receive until the thread is finished.
Threads can also be cut by drawing the cylindrical
blank through a rotating set of cutters. This equipment
feeds the part through the center of the cutting head so
that it can generate very long threaded sections. Take,
for example, long anchor rods. These products can be
many feet in length with a six inch to one foot threaded
section on one end. Cutting those threads using this
process is easy.
Parts that utilize hard to form materials may also
need to add heat for thread rolling. The process is very
similar to forming. The area to be threaded on the blank
Typical Uses
Warm and hot formed parts can find their way into
many different products. However, they tend to be in
products that use large diameter fasteners, very long
fasteners or hard to form metals.
Large diameter fasteners are often used in
construction projects and on large industrial machinery.
Very long fasteners, such as anchor rods, are used mostly
in construction. Small and large diameter fasteners that
utilize hard to form metals such as stainless steel, A286,
Inconel, Hasteloy, and Titanium are commonly found in
aerospace, defense, and harsh industrial applications.
Summary
Warm and hot forming are common fastener
manufacturing processes when parts are very large or
the materials they are made from are extremely difficult
to form. Like smaller, cold formed fasteners, large
diameter, hot headed fasteners must pass rigorous
inspections and purchasing requirements. These
components play an integral part of the fastener
supply chain and serve in many critical applications.
The manufacturing process, whether conducted on a
high speed hot header or individually on a horizontal
upsetter, the process is fascinating and well worth the
time to understand and witness first-hand if given the
opportunity.
Acknowledgements
The author wishes to extend his grateful appreciation
to Atsushi Hashimoto of Unytite, Inc . and Rich Giusti
of Haydon Bolt for sharing images 1 through 7 for this
article.
LAURENCE CLAUS

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 185
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 CELEBRATES 40th ANNIVERSARY by Dave Audia, President
This year marks the 40th Anniversary for the North
Coast Fastener Association. The NCFA was established
in 1982, as a not-for-profit organization made up of
volunteers to help inform and educate affiliates of the
fastener industry. Over the years and upon the request
of its members, the NCFA has evolved into more of a
networking association. “Although we do offer educational,
informative and technical meetings when there is a
need, it had become clear to us over the years, that our
members wanted more networking opportunities.” We are
a smaller association and this allows us to really listen to
our members and what they want out of our association.”
said Dave Audia, NCFA President.
The NCFA would like to thank its members and
industry friends for their continued support over the last
forty years. Although there has been a slight delay in
ASSOCIATION ARTICLE
kicking of this milestone celebration because of Covid,
the NCFA Board is working hard to line up some great
events moving forward.
We would be amiss if we didn’t take this opportunity
to thank all of those that have served on the NCFA
Board over the years. So many industry friends from
an array of different companies, large and small, that
volunteered their personal time to ensure the continued
growth and success of the association. Thank you for
your dedication, time and support!
Cheers to another forty years!
Save The Dates:
May 5th - Distributor Social
August 4th - Night at the Ballpark
September 8th - Screw Open Golf Outing
NORTH COAST FASTENER ASSOCIATION
NORTH COAST FASTENER ASSOCIATION 40th
ANNIVERSARY
EVENT PHOTOS OVER THE YEARS

advertisers index
#
3Q, INC. 79
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 123
Formed spring steel fasteners
Tel (888) NUTS-R-US
Email: info@acsmanufacturing.com
AIM TESTING LABORATORY 159
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. 109
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 61
Specialty Tapping Screws - Swageform
Tel (312) 733-1900
Email: sales@albanysteel.com
ALL AMERICAN WASHER WERKS 125
Quality producers of washers and stampings
Tel (847) 566-9091
Email: sales@washerwerks.com
ALLOY & STAINLESS FASTENERS
86, 161
Supplies special metal fasteners in over 150
material grades with over 25 coatings and
platings using over 300 machines with a
10,000 ton inventory and Emergency 24-7
On Call Service.
Tel (713) 466-3031
Email: info@GoASF.com
ALFA TOOLS ® 37
Hole-Making, Threading, Screwdriving. Our
Tools Make Fastening Happen!
Tel (800) 253-2532
Email: sales@alfatools.com
ALPHA-GRAINGER MFG. CO. 25
Electronic hardware, captive screws,
shoulder screws, spacers & standoffs
Tel (508) 520-4005
ALUMINUM FASTENER SUPPLY 92, 93
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 69
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
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
AUTO BOLT 67
American cold-heading bolt manufacturer
serving many industries including automotive,
truck/trailer, heavy construction, agriculture,
military, material handling and more.
Tel (216) 881-3913
Email: quotes@autoboltusa.com
B
BAR STOCK SPECIALTIES 83, 161
Metal bar processing; drawing, peeling, grinding
and cutting. Long length stainless bar to 60ft.
Tel (713) 849-0055
Email: info@GoBarStock.com
BATCHING SYSTEMS, INC. 113
Fast, accurate, cost-effective packaging
solutions that can feed a wide range of
fasteners into bags, multi cell bags, boxes or
other containers for retail presentation.
Tel (410) 414-8111
Email: bags@BatchingSystems.com
BAY SUPPLY 3
Fastener & Tooling Super Warehouse. Top brands
at bottom prices. Ships to 200+ countries.
Tel (800) 718-8818
Email: info@baysupply.com
BIG RED FASTENERS 117
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
BRADLEY GROUP OF COMPANIES 81
Our proprietary applications of thread
lockers, sealants and nylon patches are
renowned for their effectiveness and
reliability. We use brand names you can
trust including Loctite Driloc and 3M Scotch-
Grip, Precote, all applied in our quality
assured processes.
Tel (800) 201-7381
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 39
Full line of stainless-steel inch and metric.
Tel (800) 962-1614
Email: sales@brikksen.com
C
CAVALIER INDUSTRIAL SPECIALTIES
87, 161
Manufacturers machined parts per drawing,
quality detailed fasteners, and custom
manufactured studs. We support customers’
requirements with CNC machining, upset
forging and thread rolling.
Tel (713) 983-0055
Email: sales@GoCAV.com
THE CENTER FOR FINANCIAL,
LEGAL & TAX PLANNING, INC. 175
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. 107
Mfrs of Wire Rope and Chain Fittings,
Industrial and Marine Hardware and Allied
Products
Tel (847) 455-6609
Email: info@chicagohardware.com

advertisers index
C
COMPONENT PACKAGING 121
Contract packager specializing in the fastener
industry - automated or hand bagging, shrink
packaging and order assembly.
Tel (417) 624-9395
Email: lorim@componentpackaging.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 51
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) 673-5983
Email: sales@crescentmanufacturing.com
D
DARLING BOLT 187
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
DELTA SECONDARY 165
Cut off & chamfer, cut threading, cross drilling,
tapping, turning, milling, slotting, grooving.
Tel (630) 766-1180
Email: delta911@msn.com
DISTRIBUTION ONE 77
ERP Software for Fastener Distributors
capable of running the entire operation,
efficiently & profitably.
Tel (856) 380-0629
Email: info@distone.com
DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 155, 169, 191
Tel (800) 356-1639
Email: tracey@linkmagazine.com
E
ELGIN FASTENER GROUP 31
Selection. Service. Success. Discover the
Elgin Advantage
Email: quotes@elginfastener.com
E & T FASTENERS, INC 71
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 65
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 85
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. 33
Coiled and Slotted spring pins, dowel pins,
cotter pins, taper pins, grooved & special pins
Tel (845) 369-7990
Email: fastar@optonline.net
FASTENER FAIR USA 143
Fastener Fair USA is the only exhibition
in the U.S. dedicated to the full supply
chain–distributors, mechanical and design
engineers, purchasers, wholesalers and
OEMs. From automotive to aerospace,
construction to HVAC, furniture to
appliances, fastener professionals from
every segment of the market find the latest
products they need at Fastener Fair USA.
www.fastenerfairusa.com
FASTENER WEBSITE LINKS 134
FCH SOURCING NETWORK 153
(Tel) 877-332-7836
Email: eric@fastenersclearinghouse.com
FORD FASTENERS, INC. 15
410 stainless screws, sheet metal, selfdrillers,
thread cutters, self-piercing, EPDM
washers.
Tel (800) 272-FORD (3673)
Email: info@fordfasteners.com
G
GF&D SYSTEMS 141
‘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 149
GOEBEL FASTENERS, INC. 7
Innovative fastener solutions: blind rivets,
self-tapping/drilling screws, toggles,
strapping, wing seals, tools & safety and
insulation accessories.
Tel (713) 393-7007
Email: sales@goebelfasteners.com
GRAPHIKA CREATIVE 181
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. 163
Fastener inspection equipment, innovative
gage design, and dimensional calibration.
Tel (817) 870-8888
Email: sales@greensladeandcompany.com
GROWERMETAL USA, LLC. 63
Growermetal USA, an American branch of
a leading European washer manufacturer
since 1950, provides standard washers
(ASME, AREA standards) and customized
special blanked parts.
Tel (440) 773-4948
Email: info@growermetal-usa.com
H
HANGER BOLT & STUD CO 99
USA Hanger bolts, studs, dowel screws, pins.
Tel (800) 537-7925
Email: sales@hangerbolt.com
HANSON RIVET & SUPPLY CO. 113
Rivets, threaded inserts, riveting tools,
riveting machines, washers
Tel (800) 777-4838

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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
IDEAL SUPPLY, INC. 97
One of the largest Monel® fastener inventories
in the world to meet your customer’s military &
commercial requirements to ASTM/MIL-SPEC.
Tel (847) 961-5900
Email: idealsupply@idealsupplyonline.net
INDUSTRIAL FASTENERS INSTITUTE 115
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. 73
One name, one number, one source for rivets
and RivetKing FreeSet Series.
Tel (800) BUY-RIVET
Email: info@rivet.com
INTEGRATED PACKAGING 69
Parts are electronically counted, heat-sealed 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 107
Fastener and Building Related Products. Same
day shipping, free private labeling, no minimums
Tel (800) 741-4278
Email: info@isc-sales.com
INTERFAST GROUP 127
Distributor/importer of drywall, deck, selfdrilling
and self-piercing screws.
Tel (800) 605-1233
Email: ifg@interfastgroup.com
INTERNATIONAL FASTENERS, INC. 75
Daggerz construction fasteners. Self-drill, drywall,
deck, wood, concrete, clip, needle point screws,
post frame and aluminum industry screws, EDPM
bonded washers, bits & threaded rod.
Tel (888) 241-0203
Email: sales@daggerz.com
INxSQL 35
Full-featured, ERP distribution software designed
and optimized for the Fastener Industry.
Tel (877) 446-9775
Email: sales@inxsql.com
J
JOHAN SMIT FASTENERS 161
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 ® 129
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 175
Manufacturer of bolts, nuts, screws in carbon
or stainless. Custom threading and specials.
U-Bolts and Anchors.
Tel (800) 263-3393
Email: info@lelandindustries.com
LOK-MOR, INC. 105
American-made locknuts at competitive prices.
Tel (800) 843-7230
Email: sales@lok-mor.com
M
BRUNO MARBACHER 183
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 111
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
MEHTA TRADING INTERNATIONAL 153
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 91
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
NOVA FASTENERS CO. INC. 57
Anchors, screws, nuts, washers, rivets, pins,
inserts, rods. Serving industry since 1948.
Tel (800) 645-1234
Email: info@nova-anchor.com
P
PERFECTION CHAIN PRODUCTS 89
Now manufacturing straight link machine
chain and straight link coil chain. Experience
the benefits of buying American.
Tel (888) 856-4864
Email: info@perfectionchain.com

advertisers index
P
PIVOT POINT 49
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. 167
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 101
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. FRONT COVER, 16
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. 103
Bent bolts, wire forms. Quality
craftsmanship.
Tel (800) 979-1921
Email: sales@randrengineering.com
S
SCREW & SUPPLY CO. INC. 119
Tamper-resistant security screws made in
USA.
Tel (800) 223-1316
Email: customerservice@screwsupply.com
SEMS AND SPECIALS 53
Your trusted source for sems and specials
since 1991. A cold forming manufacturer
of fasteners, we offer a diverse portfolio of
products ranging from standard commercial
fasteners to custom specials and ending
with Class II military hardware.
Tel (815) 874-0000
Email: sales@semsandspecials.com
SHEAR-LOC PRODUCTS 125
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
SPIROL 55, 139
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. 183
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
STELFAST ® INC. 29
Your source for sockets. Our inventory
covers nearly all categories to meet all of
your socket needs. Strategically stocked at
our locations in Dallas, Cleveland, and Los
Angeles.
www.stelfast.com
Email: sales@stelfast.com
SUBSCRIPTION FORM 89
SUPERIOR WASHER & GASKET CORP. 27
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. 2
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 173
Anchors, bent bolt specials, spade bolts,
acme threaded bars.
Tel (847) 381-7713
Email: tuttlemfg@gmail.com
U
UC COMPONENTS 121
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
UMETA OF AMERICA 59
Supplier of OEM quality grease fittings and guns
Tel (800) 595-5747
Fax (704) 799-1923
UNICORP 45
Manufacturer of electronic hardware,
fasteners and handles since 1971.
Tel (973) 674-1700
Email: sales@unicorpinc.com
V
VIRGINIA FASTENERS 179
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 133
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@westernwireusa.com
WILLIE WASHER MFG. 189
Domestic manufacturer of fender, spring,
tab and flat washers,
Tel (847) 956-1344
Email: sales@williewasher.com
X
XL SCREW CORPORATION 97
Importer of standard fasteners - hex cap
screws, bolts, nuts, locknuts, thread forming
screws, sheet metal screws, self-drilling 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