FALL 2025

In the Fall 2025 issueof

6 DISTRIBUTOR NEWS

8 AEROSPACE FASTENERS PART 3 – AEROSPACE

DESIGNATIONS AND PART NUMBERING

Laurence Claus

10 FASTENER SCIENCE: CONFORMANCE STATEMENTS

AND THE DECISION RULE – HOW IT AFFECTS YOUR

TEST RESULTS

Rob LaPointe

12 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, TRADEMARK, COPYRIGHT

AND PATENTS

Bruno Marbacher

14 VMI & SIGNATURE CAPTURE TRANSFORM OPERATIONS

REVOLUTIONIZING FASTENER DISTRIBUTION

Dennis Cowhey

16 [COVER STORY]: BELMETRIC.COM – WE SPEAK

METRIC ON ANY DEVICE

22 REINVENTING THE FASTENER: HOW THE F-HEAD

IS TURNING HEADS ACROSS INDUSTRIES

Jeff Serle, Flush Fasteners

24 UNTHREADED: THE ZAMBONI CALL – HOW A LONG SHOT

CALL SET A TONE TO INSPIRE THE FASTENER INDUSTRY…

Eric Dudas

26 THE “5-STAR” WAREHOUSE – GALLOPING AHEAD –

SEASON 2, EPISODE 1

Robert Footlik

28 HOW TO ENSURE THE WEBINAR FOR YOUR FASTENER

DISTRIBUTORSHIP IS NOT A SNOOZEFEST

Joe Dysart

30 INSPECTING HEX SOCKET RECESSES

Larry Borowski

32 TARIFF CHECKMATE: STRATEGIC MOVES FOR

DISTRIBUTORS FACING THE GLOBAL TRADE BOARD

Nelson Valderrama

34 WHAT FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS NEED TO KNOW

ABOUT FASTENER COATINGS

Guy Avellon

36 DPA 2025 INDUSTRIAL CONFERENCE AWARD

WINNERS & HIGHLIGHTS

37 INTERNATIONAL FASTENERS INTRODUCES

DAGGER-GUARD COATING

38 WHY COIL THREAD INSERTS ARE UNIQUE

AMONG FASTENERS

Mike Eichinger, COO

40 PROPOSED “WAREHOUSE WORKER PROTECTION ACT”

DRAWS BUSINESS OPPOSITION

Jim Truesdell

42 STAFDA WELCOMES PHOENIX CONVENTION & TRADE

SHOW WITH TWO GREAT EVENTS

Georgia H. Foley, CEO

44 MFDA ANNOUNCES 2025 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Rob Rundle

46 PAC-WEST AFTER HOURS PHOTOS

47 AZTECH LOCKNUT: LOCKNUTS AND INTERNALLY

THREADED SOLUTIONS

48 FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN SELECTING A RAW

MATERIAL FOR DISC SPRINGS

John Valvoda

50 TAX MINIMIZATION ANALYSIS

Roman Basi

52 VOGELSANG DELIVERS SMARTER SLOTTED PIN

BUYING OPTIONS FOR DISTRIBUTORS

56 THE RIVET RENAISSANCE

Steven Sherman

60 CANDOR INDUSTRIAL: YOUR FULL-LINE INDUSTRIAL

SUPPLIES DISTRIBUTOR

Dennis Cowhey, Computer Insights

61 CRESCENT MANUFACTURING: OUR LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

62 GROWERMETAL: ENHANCING CONICAL WASHER DESIGN

WITH GROWER ECONICAL ®

64 DÖERKEN COATINGS: PFAS-FREE PRODUCT RANGE

FOR ALL SITUATIONS

66 MWFA EVENT RECAPS

Francesca Lewis

67 MWFA “SCREWED UP OPEN” GOLF OUTING PHOTOS

volume 48 // issue #4

68 KINTER: FAMILY-RUN, FUTURE READY – KINTER’S

LEGACY IN NICHE FASTENERS

70 NEFDA AWARDS FIRST ANNUAL BILL DONAHUE SR.

MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Ashley Ralls

72 E-Z LOK OFFERS A VARIETY OF INSERTS FOR 3D PRINTING

74 FASTENER CROSSWORD PUZZLE – TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

76 MAFDA: THE 2025 ANNUAL GOLF OUTING

Natalie Barr

82 NFDA: JOIN US IN KEY WEST FOR THE NFDA

EXECUTIVE SUMMIT

Amy Nijjar

84 NFDA 2025 ANNUAL MEETING & ESPS PHOTOS

91 SEFA 2026 SPRING CONFERENCE SET FOR

APRIL 28-30 IN GREENVILLE, SC

Nancy Rich

107 NEFDA ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP GOLF OUTING PHOTOS

117 SUBSCRIPTION FORM

118 FASTENER INDUSTRY WEB LINKS

122 MFDA OPENS REGISTRATION FOR GOLF WEEKEND

Rob Rundle

125 MWFA BREWERS VS CUBS GAME PHOTOS

139 IN MEMORIAM: BRUCE DARLING

140 WIFI ANNOUNCES SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS

145 SFA’S UPCOMING EVENTS

Becky Buddenbohn

149 IN MEMORIAM: LARRY STANLEY

151 ED SMITH ELECTED NFDA PRESIDENT FOR 2025-2026

Amy Nijjar

153 NEFDA ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP GOLF OUTING BRINGS

INDUSTRY TOGETHER

Ashley Ralls

167 RESERVE YOUR SPOT IN THE FIRST ISSUE OF 2026

6 THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK

The Auto Bolt Company, a leading domestic

manufacturer of cold-headed fasteners, a

leading American cold-heading bolt

manufacturer, is proud to announce

the appointment of Dianna Barnes,

CFS, as its new Sales Operations &

Marketing Manager.

With more than seven years of

experience in the fastener industry and

over a decade of customer relationship

expertise, Dianna brings a wealth

of industry knowledge and a strong

customer-centric approach to the Auto Bolt team.

In this newly appointed role, Dianna will lead

key initiatives focused on enhancing the customer

experience, streamlining sales operations, and

expanding marketing outreach. Her leadership and

insight will play a vital role in supporting Auto Bolt’s

continued growth and operational excellence.

A Certified Fastener Specialist (CFS), Dianna

currently serves on the boards of both the North

Coast Fastener Association (NCFA) and Women in

the Fastener Industry (WIFI)—demonstrating her

ongoing commitment to the advancement of the

fastener community.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Dianna

to the team,” said John Varley, VP of

Sales & Marketing. “Her passion for

the industry and her reputation for

excellence in customer engagement

makes her a tremendous asset to

Auto Bolt and to our customers.”

Based in Cleveland, Ohio, Auto Bolt

has proudly manufactured high-quality

cold-headed bolts in the United States

for more than 70 years. The company specializes

in low-to-high volume, high-performance, and

commercial fasteners for industries including

automotive, heavy truck and trailer, construction,

agriculture, military, material handling, and outdoor

power equipment.

For more information contact The Auto Bolt

Company by telephone at 1-800-988-BOLT or visit

them online at www.autobolt.net.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

The Gilchrist Foundation has awarded

three scholarships from the 2025 applicants.

Congratulations to the recipients. We wish them well

and are pleased to assist them with their education

They are as follows and their sponsoring

companies;

¤ Riley McDaniel - Monroe WCL

¤ Caroline Prodeohl - Valley Fastener Group

¤ Brianna Brandt - Lindfast Solutions Group

Robbie and Gina Gilchrist established the

Gilchrist Foundation Fastener Scholarship in

2000. Their goal was to return something to an

industry that was very good and supportive to

them. The Gilchrist Foundation invites any person

wanting to further their education to apply for the

scholarships. Applicants can be full time or part

time students working in the industry or children

of working fastener people. The Foundation has

awarded 84 scholarships since its beginning!

For additional information visit the foundation

website at www.gilchristfoundation.com.

The Pacific-West Fastener Association

is pleased to annouce it’s upcoming events

calendar for the remainder of the year. We still

have some great events planned for the Fall

season. Please make sure to save the date so

you don’t miss out!

¤ October 9 - Fall Dinner Meeting and Vendor

Showcase, Norwalk, CA

¤ November 6 - After Hours, San Diego, CA

(Free event)

¤ December 11 - Holiday Party, Norwalk, CA

It’s not too early to save the date for the

2026 Spring Conference and Tabletop Show in

Anaheim, CA on March 11-13, 2026.

For more information about Pac-West and its

activities, contact them at 3020 Old Ranch Parkway

#300, Seal Beach CA 90740, Tel: 562-799-5509,

Fax: 562-684-0695, Email: info@pac-west.org or

visit them online at www.pac-west.org.

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.

AEROSPACE FASTENERS PART 3 - AEROSPACE

DESIGNATIONS AND PART NUMBERING

Imagine looking at the head of a fastener and

seeing the alpha numeric combination “NAS675V-10”

stamped into the head. What does this code mean? One

of the many unique attributes of aerospace fasteners

is their mature and very well-developed standard parts

system. Even though industrial products like hex bolts

and socket head cap screws are utilized and sold as

standards universally throughout the world, the array and

sophistication of aerospace standard fasteners is like no

other. To keep track of all the different standard products,

aerospace fastener standard’s writers have adopted a

uniform way of designating different parts. In reality it’s

not quite that simple, as the wide array of NAS, NASM,

NA, and NAM standards actually employ two different

designating methodologies. This third installment of the

three-part series on aerospace fasteners will explain how

to make sense of these designations and markings.

First of all, it’s important to recognize that each

of these number and letter combinations designates

a unique part. Although the standard part number and

head marking carry some identical information, they are

not necessarily the same. In fact, the head marking is

normally an abridged version of the complete standard

part number. In addition to this identifying designation,

the heads will always be stamped with the manufacturer’s

identifying mark or logo. This is important, especially with

standard parts, to be able to identify who manufactured

them, as the same part may be produced by many

different manufacturers.

The National Aerospace Standards Committee

(NASC) is the “owner” of the NAS family of standard part

TECHNICAL ARTICLE

numbers. This family includes inch standard fasteners,

designated as NAS, inch standard fasteners that were

formerly military specification parts (MS), designated as

NASM, metric standard fasteners, designated as NA,

and metric standard fasteners that were formerly military

specification parts, designated as NAM. The NASC is

responsible for creating new and maintaining existing NAS

family standards. They meet twice a year for this purpose

and, like all the standard’s organizations, complete much

of their work in-between meetings.

In addition to this system being utilized for the NAS

family of standard parts, several of the aerospace OEMs

and Military Specification MS and AN utilize similar

proprietary standard parts systems. Take for example

Figure 1 which illustrates a Boeing proprietary standard

part. Although the numbering scheme is different, the

philosophy and way they are formatted is fundamentally

the same.

FIGURE 1: EXAMPLE OF BOEING PROPRIETARY STANDARD MARKINGS

CONTINUED ON PAGE 86

10


If you send materials or parts

out for testing or if you send

instruments out for calibration,

you should use an accredited

laboratory. Accredited laboratories

must follow strict guidelines to

ensure the data you receive from

Rob LaPointe EXPEDITE TESTING SERVICE

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. Rob is President/CEO of Expedite Testing Service, 11645 Riverside Drive, Suite 127, Lakeside, CA

92040. Tel: 619-736-7872, Cell: 909-254-1278 or visit www.expeditetest.com.

FASTENER SCIENCE: CONFORMANCE STATEMENTS AND THE

DECISION RULE – HOW IT AFFECTS YOUR TEST RESULTS

them is of high quality and their

FIGURE 1 CONFORMANCE DIAGRAM

processes and procedures are conforming to industry

standards. Using an accredited laboratory is your best

assurance that you are getting the right results. This can

save a lot of time and money if something goes wrong with

one of your products after the sale. The most common

accreditation for laboratories is ISO 17025:2017 which

is the current ISO quality management standard for data

and calibration laboratories.

ISO 17025 requires laboratories to make a statement

of conformity related to test results that are compared

to a standard of acceptance. Statements of conformity

are most often in the form of pass/fail, conforming/

nonconforming or conditional conformance/conditional

nonconformance. You might be familiar with test reports

that list statements of conformity such as pass/fail

or conforming/nonconforming but have rarely or never

seen statements such as conditional conformance/

conditional nonconformance.

Conditional conformance/nonconformance states

TECHNICAL ARTICLE

that, while the test results may be conforming or

nonconforming, the range of uncertainty in the data

overlaps the tolerance limit. This conditional status is

best communicated graphically, see Figure 1.

In Figure 1, if both the result and the range of

uncertainty fall below the upper limit, the result conforms.

Likewise, if both the result and the range of uncertainty

fall above the upper limit, the result does not conform.

However, if the range of uncertainty overlaps the upper

limit, there is a conditional conformance or conditional

nonconformance. What causes this conditional status?

There is error in every measurement ever made. That

may be a shocking statement if you’re of the opinion

that measurements can be exact or flawless. They

can’t. All measurements contain some amount of

error and the reality of this is acceptable if the error in

the measurement is understood and accounted for in

consideration of the result.


12


Bruno Marbacher

Bruno Marbacher earned his mechanical engineering degree in Switzerland, he also holds a business

degree. He started out as a tool and die maker (poly-mechanic) and over the years he has held

various management positions in quality and engineering. During his time in America he has

developed and given numerous seminars on topics related to the proper use of mechanical fasteners

and machine elements, and assists engineers in solving fastening/assembly issues. His has groomed

and directed many young engineers in fastening/assembly technology. He now offers his 40 years of

experience through writing and lecturing.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, TRADEMARK,

COPYRIGHT AND PATENTS

Dear Reader, throughout my career, I have been

involved with copyrights, patents and trademarks, working

closely with lawyers, assisting them in technical matters.

These made it necessary for me to familiarize myself with

intellectual property matters. In this article I will share

what I learned in the process, providing some insight.

Copyright, trademark, etc. fall under intellectual

property

Intellectual Property

Intellectual property (IP) refers to creations of the

intellect for which a monopoly is assigned to designated

owners by law.

Intellectual property rights

(IPRs) granted to the creators

of Intellectual property include

¤ Trademarks,

¤ Copyright,

¤ Patents,

¤ Industrial design rights,

¤ and in some jurisdictions trade secrets.

Copyrights

A copyright is a legal monopoly that protects published

or unpublished original creative work. It’s in force for the

duration of its author’s life, plus 50 years after his/her

passing. It protects that work from unauthorized copying

without due credit and compensation.

Copyright covers not only books but also advertisements,

TECHNICAL ARTICLE

articles, graphic designs,

labels, letters (including

emails), lyrics, maps,

musical compositions,

product designs, etc.

Five Rights Are

Associated With

Copyright:

¤ Reproduce the work

in any form, language, or

medium.

¤ Adapt or derive more work from it.

¤ Make and distribute its copies.

¤ Perform it in public.

¤ Display or exhibit it in public.

To acquire a valid copyright, a work must have

originality and some creativity.

Fair Use: Fair Use allows you to use an image

based on three conditions. First, if it is used for limited

non-profit and educational use. Second, if it is changed

so drastically that it no longer has the same sense or

purpose, and third, if it is used informatively for the public

good.

Patent

Limited legal monopoly is granted to an individual or

firm to make, use, and sell its invention, and to exclude

others from doing so, for a certain period.


14


COMPUTER INSIGHTS, INC.

108 Third Street, Bloomingdale, IL 60108

TEL 1-800-539-1233 EMAIL sales@ci-inc.com WEB www.ci-inc.com

VMI & SIGNATURE CAPTURE TRANSFORM OPERATIONS

REVOLUTIONIZING FASTENER DISTRIBUTION by Dennis Cowhey

Computer Insights, Inc., specializes in

software solutions, particularly for distributors

in the fastener and industrial supply industries.

The Business Edge TM

is an enterprise resource

planning (ERP) system designed to streamline

business operations.

In today’s competitive marketplace, fastener

distributors face mounting pressure to optimize

efficiency while delivering exceptional customer

service. The Business Edge TM

by Computer

Insights, Inc. offers robust solutions through

Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) and Signature

Capture technologies, enabling distributors to

streamline operations and elevate their service

standards to new heights.

Mobile-First Inventory Management

The Business Edge’s VMI and Signature Capture

systems are built with mobility at their core, designed to

operate seamlessly across iOS and Android smartphones,

tablets, and notebooks. This cross-platform compatibility

ensures that inventory management professionals can

access critical functionality regardless of their location

or preferred device. The system facilitates real-time twoway

communication between field personnel and central

operations, maintaining connectivity and productivity even

in remote locations. Importantly, The Business Edge TM is

designed to function offline when needed, allowing users

to continue working productively even in challenging

environments such as deep warehouse locations where

dense storage configurations can block cellular and

WiFi signals. Once connectivity is restored, the system

automatically synchronizes all offline transactions with the

central database.

Edge TM

The intuitive mobile interfaces in The Business

mirror familiar app experiences, enabling rapid

adoption and minimizing training requirements. This

user-friendly approach has proven transformative for

fastener distributors, who report significant improvements

in process efficiency and inventory visibility when

implementing Computer Insights’ solutions.

Comprehensive VMI Capabilities


VMI mobile applications

have emerged as game-changing tools for the fastener

distribution industry. Computer Insights, Inc.’s system

provides simplified processes and instant access to

comprehensive inventory information, empowering

distributors to make data-driven decisions in real-time.

BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 92

22


FLUSH FASTENERS

EMAIL info@flushfasteners.com

WEB www.flushfasteners.com

REINVENTING THE FASTENER: HOW THE F-HEAD

IS TURNING HEADS ACROSS INDUSTRIES by Jeff Serle

For decades, threaded fasteners have

been treated as necessary but forgettable

components to be hidden, covered, or

sealed. Now, a revolutionary new product is

challenging that notion and redefining what

a fastener can be. Enter the F-head screw,

from Flush Fasteners. A bold evolution in

fastening technology for industries where

performance and aesthetics matter.

The last major innovation in fastener

design dates back to 1932, when John Thompson

patented the cruciform screw, later commercialized by

Henry Phillips into the now-ubiquitous Phillips head.

Since then, while manufacturing methods have improved,

the core concept of the threaded fastener has remained

largely unchanged.

That status quo is now being challenged by the

F-head, a design that merges mechanical functionality with

aesthetics and performance in a way never seen before.

The Flush Fastener screw was originally

developed to solve a persistent problem in healthcare

and life science facilities: the contamination risk

posed by recessed screw heads. Traditionally, facility

managers filled these voids with caulking, which

would eventually deteriorate under routine cleaning

with aggressive disinfectants, ironically becoming yet

another contamination risk.

The F-head eliminates that vulnerability with a

precision-engineered depressible plunger that seals

the hex drive recess when not in use. With a clearance

gap of less than 100 microns, the design has been

independently tested and shown to be 98% more

hygienic than standard fasteners. Manufactured

from type 316 stainless steel, it withstands the

harshest chemical disinfectants and is now in use by

early adopters in cleanrooms, hospitals, and other

contamination-sensitive facilities.

BUSINESS FOCUS ARTICLE


24


Eric Dudas FCH Sourcing Network

Eric Dudas co-founded FCH Sourcing Network in 2006 and launched the industry renowned

Fully Threaded Radio podcast in 2010. With business partner and co-host Brian Musker, FCH

operates its widely used digital inventory marketing platform, and provides data cleansing and

formatting services for fastener distributors across the industry. FCH also produces the monthly

Fastener Distributor Index. Apart from industry punditry, Eric ponders the deeper existential

aspects of life driving a tractor around his small farm in semi-rural northeast Ohio. eric@

fastenersclearinghouse.com

UNTHREADED: THE ZAMBONI CALL - HOW A LONG SHOT

CALL SET A TONE TO INSPIRE THE FASTENER INDUSTRY...

How many cap screws go into a Zamboni, the ice

surfacing machine used at skating rinks around the

world?

This isn’t a brain teaser, like one of T.J. McFarland’s

LinkedIn “What is it Wednesday?” curiosities.

It’s a thought that occurred to me while re-listening

to the interview I did with Distributor’s Link Magazine

publisher Leo Coar on a recent episode of the Fully

Threaded Radio podcast.

If you haven’t yet heard this memorable conversation,

I hope you get a chance to listen.

It’s no secret that we, people in the thread game,

find ourselves almost compulsively counting, inspecting,

estimating and otherwise considering every aspect of the

fasteners that surround us everywhere we go.

Waiting for a flight, for example, we might notice

the cap screws in the seating area and weigh the pros

and cons of that particular drive style. We count the

structural bolts in the joists of the terminal building. As

the plane taxis to the jet-way, we consider how many

rivets are probably holding the skin panels and wing

assemblies in place.

(What a sweet deal that must have been..?)

I first became aware of this shortly after I started

working within the industry, which was right around the

time legendary sales rep, Marty Nolan launched his

Traveling Salesman blog (www.fastenerblog.net) and

posted glowingly about the phenomenon.

I’m pretty sure the post was inspired while Marty

CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE

was watching his beloved Indians at Progressive Field.

Between innings, most likely he was reflexively sizing up

the A325s holding up the score board. The thought of

hydrogen embrittlement undoubtedly crossed his mind,

if only for an instant.

When this notion of his own habit occurred to him,

and since this is the fastener industry, a blog post was

born.

THE ZAMBONI MODEL F WAS IN USE FROM MID 1950S UNTIL

1964. THE PRECISE NUMBER OF FASTENERS USED TO

MANUFACTURE IT IS UNKNOWN

So this tendency is “a thing”. And I have no idea

how many fasteners go into a Zamboni, but the question

did occur to me.

The Zamboni ice resurfacer came up as Leo

explained his sideline business back in New Jersey

during his early years, illustrating his prowess as a

resourceful entrepreneur even then.


26


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.

THE “5-STAR” WAREHOUSE – GALLOPING AHEAD -

SEASON 2, EPISODE 1

Last year in a series of four episodes, I presented a

scenario of how two very different Fastener Distributors

operated their businesses…both highly successful

in their market segment. Our narrator toured the

almost mythological “5-Star Fasteners” facilities and

was overwhelmed by just how advanced 5-Star was

in every area. The company looked impressive when

he arrived, greeted him respectfully and warmly and

absolutely astonished him with how they took an

average distribution business to a much higher level

while championing transparency, creativity and ethical

behavior by all the staff, from the CEO to the floor

sweeper.

At the end of the tour, everyone enjoyed a gourmet

lunch in the “Fish Bowl” a glass walled room within

the employee breakroom. Over dessert Mike, the Chief

Operations Manager for 5-Star explained why a potential

competitor was invited. The reasons were both logical

and astonishing.

In many market areas there are Fastener Distributors

who are competitors, others who are ‘loyal opposition,”

and several who have the term “Fastener” in their name

or mission but do not compete for your business. This

was the case with “5-Star” and our narrator. They each

had an area of focus.

“5-Star” was a generalist with a full product line

of everyday products used for Original Equipment

Manufacturing (OEM); Maintenance, Repair and

Operations (MRO); and even wholesale distribution

CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE

to other supply houses including hardware, electrical

and plumbing. Their guest marketed high-tech lines of

military, aviation and exotic materials for an audience of

engineers, Airframe & Power Plant (A & P) mechanics,

automobile race teams and other highly specialized

specifiers. While they may not compete, there is the

possibility of synergy.

With this in mind, let us see how things develop

after a mutual handshake sets off applause from the

observers in the main breakroom.

Off And Running

“Mike,” I said, “What just happened? I haven’t

received a reception like that since my fourth grade

piano recital. All we did was shake hands.”

Mike, my host and evidently newest best friend

replied, “I guess everyone approves of you. I think they

liked the way you smiled, said good morning, asked

intelligent questions and radiated respect. That fits in

with the culture we foster. It means that we are all going

to be working together synergistically.

Operationally things should be simple and

straightforward. Both of our companies use the same

accounting software and our Warehouse Management

Systems are the same ‘Wonder Working Warehouse’

(WWW), although you are on version 2.4 and we use

version 4.6. Functionally all this is simple, but there is

no formal business structure to cover how two ethical,

principled companies can do what we will be doing.


28


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

HOW TO ENSURE THE WEBINAR FOR YOUR

FASTENER DISTRIBUTORSHIP IS NOT A SNOOZEFEST

Given that most people these days are walking

around with a video-player (smartphone) in their pocket,

it’s no wonder the use of promotional webinars among

fastener distributors and others is skyrocketing.

Observes Akshay Birje, Web content writer, Airmeet,

a digital live event services provider: “Webinars are the

most widely used event format in the corporate world.

Whether you aim to deliver educational content on a

specific topic or demonstrate the offerings of your brand,

a Webinar is a super effective format that allows you to

connect and engage with potential audiences.”

Here are the top ten ways to ensure the Webinar for

your fastener distributorship wows, wins and converts:

¤ Verify You’ve Got the Best Webinar Platform

for Your Needs: While Zoom is the go-to meeting place

for untold numbers of webinars, you may want to doublecheck

other platforms that may suit your specific needs.

No matter which platform you select, key features to

look for include comfortable presentation tools, easy live

chat features, simple implementation of Q&As and easyto-implement

polls and surveys.

You also may want to be sure you have break-out

rooms for your webinar, which participants can use for

spontaneous virtual meetings. Other nice-to-have tools

include virtual backgrounds and branding, as well as the

ability for audience members to interact with emojis and

other icons.

Also, before committing to a platform, pre-test

any platform’s cloud recording and transcript-generating

capabilities. And be sure the platform’s sign-up tools

CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE

WITH THE RIGHT GAME-PLAN, YOU CAN ENSURE YOUR

WEBINAR IS NOT A SNOOZEFEST

interface nicely with other apps you may be planning to

integrate into the event, such as HubSpot, Salesforce,

Mailchimp and the like.

¤ Add Sparkle to Your Registration and Sign-Up

Process: “Oh goodie -- another long form I can fill-out

and file!” said no one ever. Webinar experts advise that

the best registration and sign-up experience is one that’s

as simple as possible -- and sticks to essential data like

name, email, company and credit card.

Plus, for those who like cruising the Web without

reaching for an email and password, you can also offer

sign-ups via their Google, LinkedIn, Facebook or similar

social media identities.


30


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

INSPECTING HEX SOCKET RECESSES

Hex recessed socket

head cap screws are the

highest performance standard

commercial screws in both

the inch and metric series.

The inch socket head cap

screws have strength levels between 170,000 and

180,000 PSI, which is 20% stronger than Grade 8 bolts.

Metric socket head cap screws come in three property

classes; 8.8, 10.9, and 12.9.

Unlike most bolts that are designed to be tightened

by rotating the nut on the bolt, hex socket head cap

screws are specifically designed to be tightened to very

high stress levels by rotating the screw by means of the

internal hex drive. The proper hex recess size and depth

in the screw heads are critical in making sure that the

hex driver bit or hex keys will fit snuggly in the recess so

the high torque values can be achieved without having

wear and/or corner rounding.

If the screw’s hex recess is too small across corners

or across flats, the driver may not enter the recess at all

or not deeply enough to achieve the required high torque

values which can damage the recess or the driver. If the

screw’s hex recess is too shallow or the recess is too

large across the flats, the driver has less engagement

which can result in stripping or reaming of driver bit and

TECHNICAL ARTICLE

recess. If any of these undesirable fit conditions exist,

the screws will not be adequately tightened.

Inadequately tightened assembly joints can lead to

many different kinds of product failures due to screw

loosening or screw fatigue failures.

The only way a hex socket screw supplier or end user

knows if the screw’s recesses have the correct size and

depth is by inspecting the recesses with the hex gages

specified in the various inch and metric socket screw

standards. There are two basic standards that cover hex

socket screws.

¤ INCH - ASME B18.3 (strength level:

170,000 – 180.000 PSI)

¤ METRIC - ISO 4762 (Property classes:

8.8, 10.9, and 12.9)

The proper inspection of hex sockets is extremely

important to assure the screws will be able to be

tightened properly. The hex socket recess must be

inspected for proper size using Go and NOGO plug

gages and socket penetration using a GO size element

connected to an indicator.


32


Nelson Valderrama

Nelson Valderrama is the Founder and CEO of Intuilize, where he leads a team dedicated to helping

industrial distributors unlock their hidden potential through data-driven decision making. With over

25 years of experience in the distribution and wholesaling industry, including work with GE and

Private Equity firms, Nelson identified that distributors were sitting on wealth of untapped data.

Through Intuilize’s AI-powered solutions that focus on the two main levers of profitability—pricing

and inventory optimization—Nelson helps mid-sized distributors transform their operations,

preserve institutional knowledge, and achieve sustainable growth without adding headcount or

complexity. For more information, contact Nelson at nelson@intuilize.com or visit www.intuilize.com.

TARIFF CHECKMATE: STRATEGIC MOVES FOR

DISTRIBUTORS FACING THE GLOBAL TRADE BOARD

Strategic Alert: In today’s complex global trade

game, wholesale distributors face unprecedented tariff

challenges, with up to 7% of gross margin at risk. Once

they master strategic tariff positioning, grandmaster

distributors achieve a 4.2% competitive advantage over

those who simply react to their opponent’s moves.

The Grandmaster’s Opening Position

On the vast chessboard of global commerce,

wholesale distributors occupy a critical middle position,

connecting manufacturer pieces with customer kings.

For many years, distributors relied on conventional

openings in economic games. However, the recent

aggressive tariff actions have changed the chessboard,

requiring even the most experienced players to embrace

fresh strategic approaches.

According to McKinsey & Company, “all distributors

should consider bold moves to quell the potential impact

of tariffs and deploy risk mitigation strategies and

proactive moves toward growth and acceleration in new

CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE

markets and regions.”

The shift from traditional 2-3% duty rates to tariffs

as high as 25% has altered the chesspiece position

for the entire distribution sector. With distributor gross

margins typically ranging from 20% to 50%, these new

tariffs represent more than just challenges—they pose

significant risks that could critically impact unprepared

businesses in a short period of time.

Are you playing with outdated strategies, or have you

adapted your game to the new global trade rules?

3 Master Moves For Tariff Strategy

As elite chess grandmasters

adapt their strategies based

on their opponents’ positions,

successful distributors navigate

tariff complexities by executing

deliberate moves from three

core strategies.

Each approach offers distinct advantages and

vulnerabilities, requiring careful analysis of your current

board position and long-term objectives.

Move 1: The Direct Advance Strategy

The Position: Distributors make a straightforward

advance, passing tariff costs directly to customers across

all product lines. If vendors charge a 25% increase, you

execute the same move with your customers.


34


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 FASTENER COATINGS

There is a variety of protective coatings for

fasteners to protect them from atmospheric corrosion

or environmentally corrosive exposure. Even non-coated

high strength structural fasteners have a thin film of oil

to protect the bare steel when left in open containers

waiting to be used. These fasteners are usually identified

by indicating that they are in the ‘as received’ condition.

Chemical Conversions

These are also called phosphate coatings and are

the only coating that will actually react and combine with

the substrate. Dissolved metal ions of zinc, iron and

manganese are chemically bonded to the surface of the

steel. Typically, thin conversion coatings are used on

office furniture, etc. as it is an excellent base coat for

paint.

When used on fasteners, higher thicknesses will

determine the corrosion resistance of the coating. Heavy

zinc phosphate coatings in the range of 1,000 to 3,000

mg. /sq. ft. will provide salt spray corrosion test results

from 96 to 400 hours. This depends upon the type of

sealer used, such as oil or wax.

Zinc

Zinc is a metal that provides a sacrificial barrier

between the substrate (bare metal part) and atmospheric

corrosion. In other words, it will corrode first, thereby

protecting the steel part. It is applied to fasteners in several

ways; hot dip, mechanical deposition, electroplated or by

chemical conversion.

When corrosion begins, it will produce a white

CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE

corrosion product. The white corrosion product is a metal

reduction of the zinc as it acts in cathodic protection of

the steel substrate.

Electrodeposited Zinc

The most popular coating is a zinc electroplate.

Typically, electroplated zinc ranges in thickness from

0.00015 to 0.0003”, the median being 0.0002” (5µm).

Salt spray tests per ASTM B117 will show some form of

corrosion product on unprotected zinc within 24 hours.

This will be in the form of red rust.

Many zinc coatings receive a supplemental chromate

dip, which can be clear or colored. These dips act as a

sealer to counter any porosity of the zinc deposit and will

enhance the corrosion resistance. Therefore, white zinc

corrosion product will first appear after 36 hours.

The chromic acid dip can have additives which

provide color as well as a thicker film. Naturally, a thicker

film provides a greater resistance to corrosion which can

provide salt spray resistance up to 96 hours. Commonly

used post treatments applied are hexavalent or trivalent

chromium. The hexavalent chromium is thicker but was

found to have harmful effects on the environment and

public health and has been discontinued for general use.

To comply with the EPA and RoHS requirements, trivalent

chromium has replaced the hexavalent chromium.

The color of the trivalent parts is not as iridescent

as the hexavalent chromium. It produces a more muted

yellow color than bright. The corrosion protection is

slightly less and the varying surface finishes and can

disrupt consistent torque-tension relationships.


36


DPA INDUSTRIAL

8280 Montgomery Rd. Suite 305, Cincinnati, OH 45236

TEL 1-800-652-7826 WEB www.DPAIndustrial.com

DPA 2025 INDUSTRIAL CONFERENCE

AWARD WINNERS & HIGHLIGHTS

The DPA Buying Group recently celebrated their

25th Anniversary during its annual Industrial Buying &

Networking Conference at the Omni ChampionsGate

Resort in Orlando, FL, May 4th-6th, 2025. During

Tuesday’s awards luncheon, DPA announced its 2024

Industrial award recipients.

DPA’s 2024 Industrial Distributor of the Year went

to All Tool & Fasteners (Miami, FL).

sealers manufacturer, Rust-Oleum (Vernon Hills, IL)

and fasteners, bits, screws and washers manufacturer,

International Fasteners, Inc. (Tampa, FL).

DPA’s 2024 Industrial Supplier of the Year went to

G-Strut (Canton, OH).

“The recipients of this award have grown remarkably

with us over the years, and their achievements truly

deserve to be celebrated. We are thrilled and honored

to have them as part of the DPA family!” Said Zachary T.

Haines, DPA CEO.

The DPA Buying Group is comprised of over 1,300

distributors and approximately 275 preferred suppliers

in the industrial, safety, and janitorial/sanitary market

DPA also announced its Industrial Excellence Award

winners at the luncheon. DPA’s 2024 Industrial

Excellence Award was presented to paints, stains and

segments. DPA connects its independent distributors

with its partnered suppliers for increased sales and

networking opportunities.


DPA INDUSTRIAL

THE DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 37

INTERNATIONAL FASTENERS, INC.

Tampa . Charlotte . Chicago . Dallas . Houston . Los Angeles . Philadelphia . Salt Lake City

TEL 1-888-241-0203 EMAIL sales@daggerz.com WEB www.daggerz.com

INTERNATIONAL FASTENERS INTRODUCES DAGGER-GUARD COATING

At International Fasteners, Inc., we carry a large

variety of screws formulated for corrosion resistance.

This is thanks to our Dagger-Guard Coating, a 1000-

hour salt spray tested finish developed with high-grade

metal surface processing technology that prevents

corrosion. It consists of three layers; the first layer is

a metallic zinc layer, the second layer is a high-grade

anti-corrosion chemical conversion film, and the third,

outer layer, is a baked ceramic surface coating.

The distinguishing feature of our Dagger-Guard

Coating is the tight joining of the baked ceramic

surface coating and the chemical conversion film. The

chemical conversion film improves the rust prevention

as it inactivates the zinc plated surface. These two

layers are bonded together through chemical reactions,

and this unique method of combining layers results in

a rigid combination of the coating films.

Our Dagger-Guard Coating product line features

hex washer heads, flat heads, wafer heads, pancake


heads, and more. With self-drilling, winged reamers,

and type 17 points, Daggerz Quality Construction

Fasteners offers corrosion resistance in a large range

of applications. With additional color options such as

white or bronze, make Dagger-Guard Coating your

choice for the Aluminum Industry. Looking for post

frame screws in exterior roofing and paneling? Our

Dagger-Tite line offers a wide scope of diameters and

lengths, complete with sealing EPDM bonded washers

and our Dagger-Guard Coating to prevent corrosion.

Furthermore, our Dagger-Deck screws offer additional

protection in ACQ treated lumber with our Dagger Ultra-

Guard Coating, designed for use in exterior wood

applications.

This is just a small selection of the screws offered

with Dagger-Guard Coating. Also benefitting concrete

and masonry applications, cement board backers,

panel clips and more, your options with Daggerz are

endless. Are you ready to DRIVE THE BEST?

INTERNATIONAL FASTENERS, INC.

38


BAY SUPPLY A DIVISION OF BAY FASTENING SYSTEMS

30 Banfi Plaza North, Farmingdale, NY 11735

TEL 516-294-4100 EMAIL info@baysupply.com WEB www.baysupply.com

WHY COIL THREAD INSERTS ARE UNIQUE

AMONG FASTENERS by Mike Eichinger, COO

Threaded fasteners need a solid substrate

for lasting performance. The threads must be

solidly anchored in the material without loosening

or pullout, which can be challenging with softer

materials, such as wood and plastics. Threaded

holes can also become stripped over time,

requiring some way to restore the threads.

Coil thread inserts offer an innovative

solution to provide a strong tapped hole. They

also extend the load of the fastener from the first

three threads to the entire length of the insert.

What Are Coil Thread Inserts?

Coil thread inserts, sometimes called helically

wound inserts, are wound coils that screw into a stripped

tap hole or soft materials to accept a threaded fastener.

The coil should be slightly larger than the hole to provide

a snug fit. The insert is screwed into place to provide

a firm footing for a threaded fastener. Screwing the

right-sized bolt or fastener into the coil pushes the coil

against the walls of the hole, and the outward pressure

of the fastener forms a joint that won’t loosen or pull

out.

For softer materials, such as soft woods, fiberglass,

and plastics, a coil insert can create a stronger joint

than a rivet nut threaded insert. Coil thread inserts

also reinforce softer metals, such as aluminum, to

repair stripped steel threads, including those found in

automotive cylinder heads, and for use in construction

projects involving concrete.

Tanged And Tangless Coil Thread Inserts

There are two basic designs of coil thread inserts—

tanged and tangless—and each is designed to provide a

reliable means to screw the coil into a hole.

Tanged Coil Inserts

Tanged coil inserts have a straightened piece of

the coil, or “tang”, at one end that is used to install the

insert. A special tool grips the tang and uses it to screw

the coil into the hole. The tang is then snapped off to

complete the installation, which leaves excess metal

that must be collected.

TECHNICAL ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 108

40


Jim Truesdell

James Truesdell is Chairman of Brauer Supply Company, a distributor of specialty fasteners,

insulation, air filtration, and air conditioning with headquarters in St. Louis. Mr. Truesdell is

Associate Professor at Saint Louis University’s Chaifetz School of Business where he has taught

their opening MBA class for the past twenty years. An attorney and frequently published writer,

he is the author of “Total Quality Management: Reports From the Front Lines”.

PROPOSED “WAREHOUSE WORKER PROTECTION ACT”

DRAWS BUSINESS OPPOSITION

Business trade associations are lining up

in opposition to the proposed “Warehouse Worker

Protection Act” which has been garnering bi-partisan

support in both houses of Congress. The National

Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW), the

National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB)

and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce have all issued

statements warning that the proposal would add severe

regulatory burdens and uncertainty for employers as well

as impede productivity. A number of states have already

enacted their own versions of the law which portend the

kind of difficulties businesses like wholesale-distributors

might face if it becomes a reality on a national basis.

One of the reasons that the proposal is popular is

that it speaks to fears that, with new data gathering

capabilities companies might seek to institute

productivity quotas on which workers can be evaluated

and disciplined. The proposed measure calls for

complete transparency on what goals are established

and expands worker rights to challenge these as unfair

or interfering with workers rights to rest and bathroom

breaks. This sounds fair on its face but would run into

burdensome implementation and litigation traps that

would discourage most warehouse and distribution

companies from setting up productivity standards in any

formalized way. Larger warehouse employers are already

CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE

using available data tools to track productivity measures

in the interest of competitive success. This new rule

would, however, expand the scope of the National Labor

Relations Act to set up a new unfair labor practice

to govern the establishment of quotas or workplace

productivity standards. This would force companies

to undertake keeping burdensome record-keeping

requirements all of which will challenge the capabilities

of smaller employers who lack the infrastructure or

resources to comply. According to Dylan Rosnick of the

NFIB employers would have to collect and maintain data

for all employees for the duration of their tenure and for

three years thereafter. Companies would have to make

this data available to the Department of Labor upon their

request, all without probable cause or search warrant.


42


SPECIALTY TOOLS & FASTENERS DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION

PO Box 44, 500 Elm Grove Rd., Ste. 2I0, Elm Grove, Wl 53122

TEL -800-352-2981 EMAIL info@stafda.org WEB www.stafda.org

STAFDA WELCOMES PHOENIX CONVENTION & TRADE

SHOW WITH TWO GREAT EVENTS by Georgia H. Foley, CEO

The essence of the American road trip — Route 66 —

runs right through Arizona and is the heart of the Specialty

Tools & Fasteners Distributors Association’s 49th Annual

Convention & Trade Show, November 9-11. Clear skies,

fresh air, and the open road make for a fantastic evening

with friends to kick off STAFDA’s Route 66 Opening Party,

at The Square PHX (Heritage Square), Sunday, November

9, from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Time to make a stop at a classic diner, grab a burger

and a soda, and listen to some great tunes. STAFDA’s

Route 66 Opening Party has it all and more. A variety of

food trucks will be dishing up everything from tacos and

quesadillas to BBQ to fry bread and Navajo Burritos. It’s

a culinary road trip that makes stops at all your favorite

places. Check out the custom cars, grab a beverage from

a Beer Burro, and definitely get the STAFDA Special from

the Ice Cream Bar.

Kick it with SB Band as they play a mix of current and

country favorites along with Southern and classic rock,

and variety from artists like Keith Urban, Garth Brooks,

George Strait, Jason Aldean, Shooter Jennings, Chris

Stapleton, Johnny Cash, and Tom Petty. SB Band is also

well-known for their way of blending in their own unique

versions of Top-40 songs like “Ice-Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice,

SHOW EVENT ARTICLE

“Fireball” by Pitbull, as well as songs from Metallica, Pink

Floyd, and Justin Timberlake.

Great energy and great fun! So crank up the tunes and

sing along. And don’t worry, there’s no road construction

on this trip.

Gather with fellow attendees again, Monday,

November 10, for a STAFDA Reception at the Sheraton

Phoenix Downtown’s Phoenix Ballroom, from 5:30-6:30

p.m. Meet up for a quick beverage and appetizers before

the manufacturer hospitality events begin.

Phoenix General Session

What’s your origin story? One of the fascinating

things about STAFDA members is they all have a unique

history and lessons to share as a result. Join STAFDA

President, Dale Hahs II, AIS Industrial & Construction

Supply, Denver, CO, on Monday, November 10, as he tells

his company story and shares industry updates and news

during his Distributor State-of-the-Industry Address at the

General Session. The Association will also take time to

recognize and thank our Board and Liaison Committee

members for their dedication and insight as they’ve

served STAFDA.

Then it’s time for a Nile adventure! STAFDA is excited

to welcome conservationist, geophysicist, bush pilot, and

adventurer Pasquale Scaturro as the General Session

keynote

speaker.

Part Bear Grylls, part

Indiana Jones, Scaturro

will take attendees on

a hair-raising adventure

down the full length of

the Nile!


44


METROPOLITAN FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION

233 Rock Road #205, Glen Rock, NJ 07452

TEL 201-254-7784 FAX 201-612-0638 EMAIL mfdaboard@gmail.com WEB www.mfda.us

MFDA ANNOUNCES 2025 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

by Rob Rundle

The Metropolitan Fastener Distributors Association

(MFDA) today announced their 2025 MFDA Scholarship

award winners:

MFDA Board of Directors

Scholarship ($4000)

Destiny Delgado

Daughter of Nelson Delgado

Yellow Woods & Roads Less

Travelled

Metric & Multistandard

Components Company

Scholarship ($3000)

Brianna Brandt

Daughter of Stephanie Brandt

Lindfast Solutions Group

Tanzman Family Scholarship

($2000)

Lauren Barr

Daughter of Freddy Bar

Stelfast Inc.

Barbara Traum Memorial

Scholarship ($1500)

Ciara Nolan

Daughter of Adam Nolan

Metric & Multistandard Components

Corp.

ASSOCIATION ARTICLE

MFDA Hall of Fame

Scholarship ($1000)

GianLuca Minichino

Son of Jay Minichino

BMB Fasteners & Supply, Inc

2025 was the MFDA’s 47th year of awarding

scholarships to students of MFDA members who will be

attending college or trade school in the fall. This was

an extremely competitive group of exceptional students.

The Board wants to thank them all for applying and

wishes them all great success in the year to come.

Along with the donors of the named scholarships

listed above, the MFDA would like to recognize and

thank Brighton-Best International (for the Barbara Traum

Memorial Scholarship), AFC Industries/Fastbolt Corp,

Eurolink Fastener Supply Service, Star Stainless/Yellow

Woods, Ken Forging, BMB Fastener & Supply, Inc. &

BMB Fasteners for their generous contributions.

The MFDA’s Scholarship Drive was founded at the

urging of then board member Irwin Tanzman. In the

nearly 50 years since Irwin’s first drive, the Association

has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to the

children of MFDA member company employees.

For more information on the MFDA and for a list of

upcoming events, please visit the association online at

www.mfda.us.


PAC-WEST AFTER HOURS - VANCOUVER, BC

THE BARLEY MERCHANT - JUNE 26, 2026


AZTECH LOCKNUT COMPANY

LOCKNUTS AND INTERNALLY THREADED SOLUTIONS

From hand tools to rocket ships, Aztech has parts for

every industry! When we opened in 1978, we were providing

locknuts for RV trailers and Center-Pivot Irrigation systems.

With a relentless commitment on cutting edge technology,

Aztech has evolved into a high-tech industry leader.

Aztech’s production capacity and capabilities include

smaller lot-highly engineered, tight tolerance internally

threaded solutions to high volume industrial parts.

Aztech attained AS9100 certification in 2010 and at

that point began the mission to supply products to the most

demanding customers. Today, our production capability

includes a diverse assortment of equipment including a line

of High-Speed Hydraulic Presses up to 86,000 force pounds,

5-Camera Sorting, Multi-Tasking CNC, Vision System CoBot

CNC, Automated Production Torque Testing and Reporting,

Automated Slitting and Tapping, Dip-Spin Coatings w/Drying

& Baking, and High-Speed Boxing & Bagging. To achieve the


2121 Diehl Road, #131, Aurora, IL 60502 TEL 1-800-321-5625

EMAIL sales@aztechlocknut.com WEB www.aztechlocknut.com

very best value across our product offerings, we can supply

hybrid, US Processing applied to imported nuts, or 100% US

Manufactured product. For US Government sales, our facility

is certified to CMMC 2.0 Level 1.

Aztech is partnering with customers that understand

locknuts are Engineered Fasteners and share our vision

of value, quality and loyalty to US manufacturing as we

enter our next evolution, growth. With the current tariff

environment, and the added value of the locking process

we apply in Aurora, IL, locknuts are on the short list

for fasteners to reshore. We have available capacity

for processing locknuts to industrial standards. We are

expanding capacity to our Internally Threaded Solutions

product category serving Aerospace and Mil-Spec standards

and OEM engineered specials.

For more information and our latest developments,

please check out our new website.


AZTECH LOCKNUT

48


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

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN SELECTING A RAW

MATERIAL FOR DISC SPRINGS by John Valvoda, Disc Spring Application Specialist

Disc Springs are ideal functional components for

achieving consistent and predictable forces within

specified distances of travel. Unlike other types of

springs, including Belleville washers, Disc Springs have

a predictable fatigue life which can be calculated. The

reliability and predictability of these engineered, highperformance

springs is unmatched. While Disc Springs

look like a simple conical washer, the process to select

the correct Disc Spring or Disc Spring Stack is quite

technical.

Choosing the proper material for the Disc Spring is

equally as important as selecting the proper size Disc

Spring for your application. The reason being that the

raw material factors are affected by:

[1] Force

[2] Operating Environment

[3] Fatigue Life

[4] Cost

Below is an overview of the (4) aforementioned

variables, and how each may affect the Disc Spring

material selection.

Force

Generally, carbon and alloy steel Disc Springs

perform the best because of their ability to be “springy”.

Carbon and alloy steel (otherwise known as spring steel)

are also exceptionally durable and fatigue resistant

when heat treated. Generally, you will see a greater

force output (5-6% more) from a carbon or alloy steel

Disc Spring as opposed to a 301 or 17-7 stainless steel

counterpart in the same size.

DISC SPRINGS ARE AVAILABLE IN DIFFERENT TYPES OF

MATERIALS. IN THIS PICTURE, DISC SPRINGS ARE SHOWN IN

CARBON STEEL (LEFT), AND 17-7 STAINLESS STEEL (RIGHT).

While spring steel can provide superior performance

in an ordinary environment, its performance can begin

to diminish at higher temperatures. Stainless steel Disc

Springs provide better temperature resistance, but will

not maintain their force output in extreme temperatures

as well as exotic materials would such as Inconel Disc

Springs. In situations where corrosion protection is

desired, the design engineer should consider the cost

effect between using 2 or 3 stainless steel Disc Springs

in parallel versus one carbon or alloy steel Disc Spring

with mechanical zinc or ArmorGalv® (a zinc alloy thermal

diffusion coating) - with both options achieving the same

force.

Operating Environment Considerations

The decision about selecting the raw material for the

Disc Spring(s) can be quite complex when considering all

of the parameters. Operating temperatures and potential

for corrosion is a major factor in the material and/or

coating selection.

TECHNICAL ARTICLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 114

AFC Industries has

acquired Chicago Illinois based

Cavanaugh Government Group

(CGG). Founded in 2012,

Cavanaugh Government

specializes in the sourcing

and distribution of parts

and services for military and

defense applications and

logistics across all government

sectors.

AFC CEO Kevin Godin said,

“We are excited to have Mike,

Dina, and the Cavanaugh

team as part of the AFC family.

Expanding the capability and

depth of our Aerospace and

defense group is a key strategic

focus for us and CGG is another

important step in that direction.

They bring a lot of expertise and

even more importantly, they

understand that value isn’t just

in having parts on the shelf, but

partnering with customers to

solve problems, simplify their

processes, and enable them to

focus on what they do best.”

CGG owner Mike Cavanaugh

said, “We have worked hard to

build a great team and grow

our business. We were looking

for the right partner to help us

take it to the next level and

we are confident and excited

about the next chapter as part

of the AFC team. Everyone at

AFC we have met throughout

this process has been honest,

professional, and great to work

with. The resources and culture

they bring give us a great

opportunity to accelerate what

we are doing”

For more information about

AFC Industries visit them online

at www.afcind.com.

SPIROL is pleased to announce

that there are no tariffs on

SPIROL’s Spring Pins purchased in

the USA. This is because all Coiled

Spring Pins and Slotted Spring

Pins for American customers

are produced in the USA from

US melted raw materials. This,

combined with in-house forming,

heat treating, and finishing

operations, eliminates supply

chain risks commonly associated

with non-domestic sources.

In addition to tariff-free Spring

Pins, SPIROL also manufactures

a standard, comprehensive line of

Pin Installation Equipment ranging

from manual to fully automatic

modules. These Installation

Machines are also manufactured

entirely in the USA.

In summary, SPIROL is uniquely

postured to mitigate risks

associated with procuring Coiled

Spring Pins, Slotted Spring Pins,

and the method to install them –

all without tariffs being levied in

the United States.

For more information contact

SPIROL at Tel: 1-860-774-8571,

Email: info@spirol.com online at

www.spirol.com.

50


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. Visit www.taxplanning.com or call The Center at 618-997-3436.

TAX MINIMIZATION ANALYSIS

When selling a business, most business owners are

curious about how much cash they will walk away with.

More specifically, what is the tax impact they would incur,

and what would be the best structure and allocation to

minimize the tax impact? How can one obtain the answers

to all these questions? A Tax Minimization Analysis (TMA)

is your one-stop shop for all the above. A TMA will analyze

multiple factors that play a vital role in the outcome of

selling a business.

A merger and acquisition (M&A) transaction is often

an overwhelming process. They have a multitude of

variables that could drastically influence the outcome.

These variables include but are certainly not limited to

the overall structure of the transaction, the asset/stock

basis of the selling company, ownership configurations,

real estate involvement, multiple entity involvement,

liabilities paid at closing, purchase price adjustments,

earn-outs, consulting fees, recaptured depreciation, and

the federal, state, and local tax impact. The sooner that

all variables in the transaction are understood, the better

suited your counsel will be to know how to best combat

or strategically fully use such variables as possible. This

is to ensure that you did not invest your life in a business

to give thirty to fifty percent away in taxes when sold.

A TMA, when executed properly, allows sellers to see

the full financial breakdown on every level of mergers,

acquisitions, and even business succession. Along with

this, a TMA is a waterfall of the entire transaction to

provide sellers with an accurate calculation that considers

all transaction factors that may affect the amount of cash

available at closing and post-closing. Our experienced

group of professionals at The Center for Financial, Legal

& Tax Planning, P.C. (The Center) believes that a TMA

CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE

revolutionizes M&A transactions as sellers are granted

the transparency they deserve and receive the information

necessary for our team to best advocate for the best

desired outcome. The example below provides some

insight into the value of a TMA.

While a TMA typically pays for itself through the

minimization of taxes owed, there is also a possibility that

the findings in a TMA could pay for the M&A team that you

engage for the transaction. For example, let’s say your

business deals with complex licensing or regulations, and

the buyer is looking to pursue an asset sale for the benefits

of immediate depreciation. With a TMA, your counsel would

be able to analyze and determine which structure would

best apply to this transaction, whether it be an asset,

stock, or, in this case, a potential 338(h)(10) sale. Using

a TMA, you can calculate the tax effect of each sale type

(asset, stock, and 338(h)(10)) to determine what structure

would be the most beneficial from a tax standpoint. Under

this example, the TMA may determine that 338(h)10 will

best overcome the complexities of assigning licenses or

permits while also providing the paramount tax outcome for

not only the seller but possibly the buyer, too.

The professionals at The Center have forty-plus

years of M&A experience and realize the importance of

analyzing every factor that plays a role in the outcome

of a transaction. Furthermore, we use the TMA to evolve

several factors as the transaction progresses to give the

business owner full insight and transparency. This insight

not only provides a sense of comfort to sellers but also

offers a strategic advantage in achieving the desired

result. A successful TMA allows the client and counsel to

engage in an open dialogue regarding goals and pursue

the best possible transaction structure.

ROMAN BASI

52


VOGELSANG FASTENER

SOLUTIONS

1790 Swarthmore Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701

TOLL-FREE 1-800-526-2376 EMAIL sales@vogelsangfastener.com WEB www.vogelsangfastener.com

VOGELSANG DELIVERS SMARTER SLOTTED PIN

BUYING OPTIONS FOR DISTRIBUTORS

When it comes to slotted pins, performance

matters—but so does the ease of getting them into your

customers’ hands. That’s why Vogelsang is focused not

only on manufacturing quality pins but on making the

buying process faster, simpler, and more flexible.

Flexible Purchasing Built For Distributors

Vogelsang makes it easy to keep your customers

supplied, with flexible purchasing that scales with demand.

¤ Order what you need, how you need it. Choose

from traditional bulk boxes, 9x9 cartons, 4x4 cartons, or

bagged quantities starting as low as 5 pieces.

¤ No minimums required. Orders under $25 are

welcome, with a small handling fee.

¤ Same-day shipping on in-stock inch pins in

carbon steel, 18-8 stainless, and 420 stainless, as well

as many popular sizes of metric pins in carbon and 18-8

stainless.

¤ Custom purchasing programs include blanket

orders, release schedules, or flexible arrangements

tailored to how you sell.

Made To Last, Made In The USA

We proudly manufacture most of our ASME inch

slotted pins in the USA, ensuring consistency, precision,

reliability, and availability without the uncertainty of tariffs.

With in-house slitting, profiling, grinding, and sorting,

we meet the most exacting specifications. Combined

with a strong inventory and same-day shipping on most

standard items, we’re ready to deliver, even during peak

demand.


Customized Solutions For Specialized Needs

When you need more than just a standard part, we

will meet your requirements. We frequently run specials

to print and are fully equipped to handle your most

demanding applications.

In addition to one of the widest selections of

sizes and diameters, we can manufacture semi-circle,

wave, traverse wave, or trapezoid slots to match

your specifications. Material options include workhardened

18-8 nickel-chromium stainless, 420 hardened

stainless, and specialty alloys like 316 stainless steel

and beryllium copper.

Additional options include internal and external

plating, flared or headed pins, circumferential bevels,

specially closed gaps, and features designed for

automatic feeds.

From tight tolerances to complex assemblies and

proprietary designs, we’ll help you configure the right pin

for the job.


54


Decker: New Catalog. New Products. One Source

Decker is proud to release their new 2025

Fastener catalog. It showcases the latest highperformance

products engineered to meet the

demands of the automotive, structural, and

agricultural industries. This comprehensive

resource is designed to help engineers, contractors,

and supply teams find the right fastener solutions

quickly and from one source.

What is evident in this new catalog is Decker’s

continued dedication to acquiring industryleading

equipment. With a recently purchased

1” cold-forming machine, plus over 50 additional

machines, they can produce components ranging

in size from 1/4” through 1” finished hex nuts,

3/8” through 1” DH hex, tower, culvert, and

guardrail nuts, all with state-of-the-art internal

tapping machines that allow for precise threading,

to meet exact specifications required by structural

applications.

They have also strategically increased on-hand

inventory and available production capacity to help

businesses hedge against international supply

chain disruptions and changing tariff terms. The

best part is that all products are backed by

Decker’s rigorous quality control measures and

strictest certification standards.

Since 1927 Decker’s mission, “to be the industry

leader in fastener solutions at competitive pricing,

while fostering sustainable growth, exceptional

quality, and lasting value for their customers,

employees, and stakeholders”, shines through in

every catalog they publish, product they produce,

and partnership they forge. It’s a centuries-old

commitment that will remain steadfast for another

100 years.

To request a copy of the new Fastener catalog,

call 517-629-3955 or 330-926-2070 and ask for

your Account Manager or visit www.deckernut.com.

56


Steven Sherman Co-Vice President, Industrial Rivet

Steven Sherman, a fourth-generation Co-Vice President deeply rooted in the

industry from childhood. With an impressive 28-year tenure, Steven has

mastered every aspect, from hands-on roles like header operator, to product

engineering, application engineering, sales, and management. He attended

UCSB for engineering and business. Currently chair of the IFI Technical

Committee and serving on the board.

THE RIVET RENAISSANCE

Rivets are often overlooked, yet they’ve held

together some of humanity’s greatest achievements,

from ancient armor to modern aircraft. Their story spans

over 5,000 years and continues to evolve.

In ancient Egypt, bronze pins secured shields and

chariots, showcasing early riveting not just as a joining

method, but as a symbol of craftsmanship. Riveting

spread through civilizations—Greek, Roman, Chinese—

anchoring tools, structures, and ships.

Centuries later, rivets were thrust into the spotlight

during the Industrial Revolution. Hot-driven rivets held

together bridges, factories, railroads, and ocean liners.

Structures like the Brooklyn Bridge and the Eiffel Tower

owe their strength to red-hot iron rivets, driven into place

by highly coordinated crews of skilled workers.

By the mid-20th century, bolts emerged as a simpler

alternative, dominating infrastructure projects due to

their flexibility and lower labor costs. But rivets weren’t

finished.

In aerospace, where weight and strength are critical,

solid aluminum rivets became indispensable. The DC-3,

WWII bombers, and commercial jets were all riveted into

history. Blind rivets then

revolutionized automotive

and appliance assembly.

Today, rivets remain

one of the strongest and

most efficient fastening

solutions available.

Their ability to create

permanent, high-strength

CONTRIBUTOR ARTICLE

joints, often in

seconds,

them

across

makes

invaluable

industries

where labor cost is a

driving factor.

And Now, A

New Chapter Is

Unfolding

As manufacturing

faces

increasing

pressure to balance

speed, cost, and sustainability, rivets are stepping into the

spotlight again. Advances in tool technology have made

installation faster, safer, and more precise—reducing

downtime and improving ergonomics for operators.

Automated and semi-automated riveting systems allow

manufacturers to integrate rivets seamlessly into highvolume

production lines, cutting cycle times without

sacrificing quality. Industries from electric vehicles to

renewable energy infrastructure—and now, the rapidly

expanding world of data centers—are turning to rivets

for assembly methods that deliver both performance and

efficiency.

For distributors, the “rivet renaissance” is more

than just a nod to history—it’s a call to seize emerging

opportunities. As production methods evolve and

industries seek fastening solutions that can keep

pace, rivets offer the rare combination of time-tested

performance and modern adaptability.

STEVEN SHERMAN

60


CANDOR INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY

1846 W 11th St, Ste K, Upland, CA 91786 TEL: 844-522-6367

EMAIL sales@candorusa.com WEB www.shopcandor.com

YOUR FULL-LINE INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES DISTRIBUTOR

by Dennis Cowhey, President, Computer Insights

Christy and Justin Alfrey founded Candor Industrial

Supply when they noticed that, while industrial supply

distribution technologies had been growing rapidly,

customers were experiencing a deterioration in service

levels at the same time. Their mission is to provide their

customers with the best of both worlds - to perform with

the same agility, product depth, and service offering of

their larger competitors, while providing customers with the

personal touch, flexibility, and reliability of working with a

small business.

The Beginning

Candor got started in its owner’s garage in Rancho

Cucamonga, California, in January of 2019. They shortly

established their corporate office and warehouse in

Ontario, California. In July of 2024, they relocated to

Upland, California – merging the Ontario office with that

of one of their acquisitions – with an expanded inventory

of fasteners, tools, safety supplies, and more. They also

expanded by adding a second branch office and warehouse

in Tempe, Arizona, in January of 2020, and a third branch

office and warehouse in Dallas, Texas, in August 2023.

Growth Through Acquisition

Candor Industrial Supply, Inc. has achieved some of its

growth through various acquisitions, including Moorefield

Systems on February 1, 2022, So Cal Bolt & Supply on

April 3, 2024, and Connor Fastener on June 27, 2024 – the

first being a small but reputable distributor of metalworking

tooling and machinery, with the other two both being

small but reputable fastener-focused industrial supply

distributors. These companies all came with rich decadeslong

legacies of supplying a wide variety of fasteners, tools,

abrasives, and more.

With these acquisitions, and the aforementioned

organic growth, Candor Industrial Supply now operates

in 4 states across the USA, proudly serving industrial,

construction, MRO, and similar industries in the Southern

California, Phoenix, DFW, and Mid-Georgia markets.

Customer Service With Experience & Technology

Candor Industrial Supply combines its decades of

acquired industrial supply expertise with cutting-edge

technology. This allows them to provide unparalleled

customer support and service. Justin Alfrey, CEO of Candor

Industrial Supply, Inc., commented, “The Business Edge TM

by Computer Insights, Inc. gives us the competitive edge

we need in today’s fast-paced industrial supply market. It

doesn’t just manage our operations—it amplifies our ability

to provide the personalized service our customers have

come to expect. With instant access to pricing, availability,

and customer history, at the desktop and on the go, we can

respond to inquiries in seconds rather than minutes. This

technology, combined with our deep industry knowledge,

creates an unbeatable combination for our customers.”




62


GROWERMETAL SPA

Via Nazionale 3, 23885 Calco (LC), Italy

TEL +39 039 9535300 FAX +39 039 9535400 EMAIL info@growermetal.com WEB www.growermetal.com

ENHANCING CONICAL WASHER DESIGN

WITH GROWER ECONICAL ® CONTINUED ON PAGE 126

In 2025, the Italian fastener specialist

Growermetal marked a double milestone: its

75th anniversary and the official launch of

Grower Econical®, an innovative conical washer

developed to meet today’s technical demand for

light, efficient and sustainable designs.

Introduced during the Fastener Fair Global

in Stuttgart last March, Grower Econical®

immediately gained industry attention,

distinguishing itself among 20 cutting-edge

technologies that competed at the Route to

Fastener Innovation contest. Here the new

product took first place, highlighting the

central role of continuous product development in

Growermetal’s strategy.

With over 4,500 standard washer models and

more than 3,000 customized suitable for many sectors

and applications, the company remains committed

to full in-house production departments and a steady

investment in innovation. As a result of this approach,

by the end of 2024, Growermetal inaugurated the

Growermetal Innovation Center (GIC), an additional

facility that boosted the internal R&D department

through areas dedicated to prototyping and training.

Thanks to the effort of Growermetal’s research

and development team, Grower Econical® registered

excellent results in targeted testing, setting significant

advancements in the traditional conical washer functions

and characteristics. Starting from the geometry of

DIN 6796 and NFE 25-510 washers, it introduces a

sigmoidal profile that improves mechanical performance

and at the same time reduces material consumption.

According to internal simulations, Grower Econical®

offers a 20% weight reduction, 25% higher spring force

near the flattening point, and 15% better residual

deflection and elastic recovery compared to standard

conical washers. The geometry also enables improved

load distribution, protecting coated surfaces from

indentation, even under high tightening forces.

“The philosophy behind the concept of Grower

Econical® is the same that always moves us forward:

we not only respond to market needs, but offers

innovative and sustainable fastening solutions for the

most demanding applications,” says Filippo Pia, New

Product Development Manager.



64


DÖRKEN COATINGS

11200 Cedar Knoll Dr, Grass Lake, MI 49240

TEL 517-522-4600 EMAIL coatings-us@doerken.com WEB www.doerken.com

DÖRKEN: PFAS-FREE PRODUCT RANGE

FOR ALL SITUATIONS

The European Commission’s decision on a possible

ban on PFAS compounds is still pending. Nevertheless,

DÖRKEN is working intensively on this issue and already

has a number of PFAS-Free products in its portfolio.

From small nuts and bolts to large steel components,

suitable corrosion protection must be considered for

every metallic component right from the planning stage.

Electrochemical reactions alter the properties of the metal

and can considerably impair its functionality. Cathodic

corrosion protection is a reliable solution in which a zinc flake

coating acts as a barrier. In the event of a corrosion attack,

the zinc sacrifices itself due to the low electrochemical

potential thus protecting the steel component.

How Is A Zinc Flake System Created?

A zinc flake coating is a modular system consisting of

a basecoat and a topcoat. The individual components can

be combined to precisely satisfy complex and specified

requirements.

The basecoat is the zinc flake coating and is applied

directly to the substrate to be treated. This base layer

determines the corrosion protection properties. The

zinc content provides a high level of cathodic corrosion

protection which ensures the substrate remains corrosion

free for significant durations even if the surface has

been damaged by impact or scratches. The topcoat

complements the properties of the basecoat and gives the

coating additional multifunctional properties. In addition to

corrosion protection, the topcoat protects against chemical

and mechanical damage and is responsible for:

¤ Coefficient of Friction Requirements

¤ Media Resistance

¤ Weathering Resistance

¤ Appearance (e.g., Color)

¤ Other Specialized Requirements

PFAS Ban – What Now?

In February 2024, the European Chemicals Agency

(ECHA) published the proposal for a ban on the manufacture,

use and placing on the market (including import) of at

least 10,000 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

The replacement of fluoropolymers commonly used in

the industry as lubricants impacts zinc flake coatings.

To anticipate the ban, DÖRKEN has developed a PFAS-

Free product range. At the Fastener Fair Global 2025 in

Stuttgart, the corrosion protection specialists presented

their PFAS-Free coating solutions, which have already been

successfully tested in production. The new product range

includes:

¤ DÖRKEN® BASE 105, Solvent-Based

Silver Zinc Flake Basecoat

¤ DÖRKEN® BASE 120, Solvent-Based

Silver Zinc Flake Basecoat

¤ DÖRKEN® SEAL 711 BLACK, Solvent-Based

Topcoat with Black Matte Finish

¤ DÖRKEN® SEAL 711 SILVER, Solvent-Based

Topcoat with Shiny Silver Finish

¤ DÖRKEN® TOP 500 BLACK, Water-Based

Black Topcoat



66


MID-WEST FASTENER ASSOCIATION

PO Box 255, Park Ridge, IL 60068

TEL 847-438-8338 EMAIL mwfa@mwfa.net WEB www.mwfa.net

2025 Screwed Up Open Recap

May 22, 2025 – White Pines Golf Club, Bensenville, IL

Despite the chilly weather, over 75 golfers turned

out for the 2025 Screwed Up Open, making it another

fantastic day of fun and friendly competition. The group

teed off at 11:00 AM in a shotgun-style start at White

Pines Golf Club in Bensenville, IL.

MWFA EVENT RECAPS

by Francesca Lewis

Golfers showed their generosity by supporting the

MWFA’s annual Sleep in Heavenly Peace Bedding

Drive—bringing more than 30 bedding donations to the

course, along with many additional online contributions.

After the round, participants gathered for the

announcement of contest and raffle winners before

heading to Church Street Brewery for our always-popular

Nuts & Brews celebration. It was a day filled with

camaraderie, giving back, and great memories.

MWFA Returns To The Johnsonville Party

Deck For Brewers vs Cubs!

The Mid-West Fastener Association hit the ballpark

once again for our annual Brewers vs. Cubs outing—and

not even the rain could dampen the fun!

For the second year in a row, MWFA members and

guests gathered for a pregame tailgate in the Yount Lot,

ASSOCIATION ARTICLE

sharing drinks, snacks, and plenty of laughs under popup

tents as the summer storm rolled through. Despite

the weather, the energy was high, the coolers were

stocked, and the umbrellas were out in full force!

Once the gates opened, the group made their way

to the Johnsonville Party Deck, where we enjoyed allinclusive

food, drinks, and an unbeatable view of the

game. The friendly rivalry between Brewers and Cubs

fans made for plenty of good-natured fun as we watched

the action unfold.

A huge thank you to everyone who came out and

made this event a home run—rain or shine, the MWFA

knows how to bring the fun. We can’t wait to do it all

again next season!



‘SCREWED UP OPEN’ GOLF OUTING - MAY 22, 2025


68


KINTER

3333 Oak Grove Ave, Waukegan, IL 60087

TEL 1-800-323-2389 EMAIL sales@kinter.com WEB www.kinter.com

FAMILY-RUN, FUTURE-READY:

KINTER’S LEGACY IN NICHE FASTENERS

What began in 1980 as a small garage operation

selling nails and other small fasteners in the Detroit

suburbs has evolved into a trusted name in niche

fasteners, serving clients across various industries,

including manufacturing, construction, fixture design,

display systems, and beyond. From its earliest days,

Kinter has maintained a simple, enduring philosophy:

listen closely, engineer smartly, and deliver consistently.

That approach has earned the loyalty of engineers,

sourcing professionals, and product designers who rely

on Kinter’s ingenuity and stock availability.

“Our legacy is rooted in trust,” says Paul White,

President of Kinter and son of founder John White.

“Being family-run means we think long-term—not just

about growth, but about the people we serve and the

problems we solve. We’ve always been willing to go the

extra step to get it right, especially when others say it

can’t be done.”

That extra step is taken daily, by constantly having

inventory levels high enough to fulfill last-minute, highvolume

orders. Over the past 45 years, the humble

garage has grown into a 300,000+ square foot, threewarehouse

campus with aggressive inventory levels in

Waukegan, IL.

But while Kinter’s roots run deep, its eyes are firmly

on the future. Over the past decade, the company has

invested heavily in design tooling, lean manufacturing,

and customer service infrastructure, positioning itself

to meet the increasing demand for flexible, dependable

fastener solutions in a rapidly evolving market.

For instance, its state-of-the-art on-site Engineering

Lab has dedicated designers, custom injection molding,


in-house 3-D printing, and CNC and EDM tooling

capabilities, while its ever-evolving secondary operations

services can handle large-volume fulfilment with highspeed

bagging and boxing, labeling and instructions, and

co-packing. Their commitment to continuous improvement

has enabled Kinter to maintain both the agility of a small

business and the reliability of an established partner.

Perhaps what makes Kinter’s story so resonant is

the sense of continuity—how the values that defined its

early years still shape its future. With the next generation

already taking on leadership roles and new technologies

opening the door to even more tailored fastening

solutions, Kinter is doubling down on what it does best:

helping others build, connect, and create, one fastener

at a time.

“As we celebrate 45 years, we’re not looking back—

we’re looking forward,” adds White. “The need for niche

fasteners isn’t going away. It’s only becoming more

essential. And we’re proud to be right where we’ve

always been—in the details.”

KINTER

70


NEW ENGLAND FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION

PO Box 701, Tewksbury, MA 01876

TEL 816-686-8987 EMAIL nefda@nefda.com WEB www.nefda.com

NEFDA AWARDS FIRST ANNUAL BILL DONAHUE SR.

MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP by Ashley Ralls

The NEFDA is proud to announce the creation of the

William Donahue Sr. Memorial Scholarship, established

to honor the remarkable legacy of Bill Donahue Sr., who

passed away peacefully on September 1, 2024, at the

age of 76.

Bill’s journey in the fastener industry began in 1975

when he launched Arnold Supply Inc. from his garage

in Connecticut. Over five decades, he transformed that

humble beginning into a global fastener distribution

company, demonstrating the entrepreneurial spirit and

dedication that defined his career. His contributions

to the industry were formally recognized in 2019

when he was inducted into the New England Fastener

Distributors Association Hall of Fame, having served

multiple terms as both Board member and President.

This memorial scholarship embodies the values Bill

championed throughout his life: unwavering commitment

to education, deep dedication to the fastener industry,

and belief in nurturing the next generation of leaders.

The first recipient, Joshua Monteiro of Fall River

Manufacturing, exemplifies these same qualities that

made Bill such a respected figure in the industry.

Katie Hogan, NEFDA Board Member and Bill’s

granddaughter, along with the entire Donahue family,

are honored to award Joshua the inaugural 2025

William Donahue Sr. Memorial Scholarship as he

pursues his degree and career in the fastener industry.

“This scholarship allows us to continue Dad’s

legacy of supporting others in the industry he loved

so deeply,” the family shared. “We’re excited to

help nurture the next generation of fastener industry

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: BILL DONAHUE SR, KATIE HOGAN

AND BILL DONAHUE JR.

leaders, just as Bill would have wanted.”

The NEFDA is currently accepting donations to

support this scholarship fund. Please visit nefda.com

or contact a Board Member for more information.

The NEFDA Welcomes New Board

Members

The New England Fastener Distributors Association

welcomes two new Board Members. Ashley Ralls

joins the NEFDA as Executive Director and Secretary.

Ashley brings experience in business operations to the

association and has jumped right into the role. Wendi

Velasco, Crescent Manufacturing, joins the NEFDA

as Board Member and will lead the Board Member

development committee. Welcome, Ashley and Wendi!

For more information on the NEFDA and upcoming

events, please visit www.nefda.com, contact Laura

Murphy, administrator at nefda@nefda.com or PO Box

701, Tewksbury, MA 01876.

ASSOCIATION ARTICLE



Lindfast Solutions

Group, a Nautic Partners

portfolio company, is pleased

to announce the appointment

of Mike Spencer as Chief

Executive Officer, effective

immediately.

Prior to becoming CEO,

Mike served as LSG’s Vice

President of Sales. Before

LSG, Mike held key senior

leadership positions at Anixter,

Inc. and later WESCO.

In his current role at LSG,

Mike has been integral to

driving cross-sell initiatives

and leading process and

technology improvements.

His deep industry knowledge,

commitment to operational

excellence, and track record of

driving strategic growth make

him the ideal leader for LSG’s

next chapter.

“I’m honored to step into

this role,” said Mike. “LindFast

has the best team in the

business. I believe we are

in a unique position to grow

stakeholder value through

expanded service solutions

and product offerings—

along with Nautic Partners,

our vendor and customer

partners.”

“We are excited to have

Mike serve as CEO,” said Chris

Pierce, Managing Director at

Nautic Partners.

“Mike has driven excellent

growth initiatives as LSG’s

Vice President of Sales and

we are confident that he will

accelerate growth as CEO.”

For more information, visit

Lindfast Solutions Groups

online at www.lindfastgrp.com.

72


E-Z LOK

240 E. Rosecrans Ave, Gardena, CA 90248

TEL 1-800-234-5613 EMAIL sales@ezlok.com WEB www.ezlok.com

E-Z LOK OFFERS A VARIETY OF

INSERTS FOR 3D PRINTING

3D printing has been a rapidly growing industry that

allows everyone from hobbyists to engineers to easily

create products and prototypes with a fraction of the

investment of traditional manufacturing. This technology

allows for rapid prototyping and testing of new designs.

While this ease of creation is great, plastic can pose

issues when fastening together parts as 3D plastic

printed threads are not generally robust enough to

handle repeated use.

Threaded metal inserts designed for plastic allow for

strong, re-usable metal threads to be put into 3D printed

parts. These inserts can be installed in several different

ways, ranging from press-in installation (E-Z Press

and E-Z Fin) to heat-staking with a soldering iron (E-Z

Sonic).

E-Z Press & E-Z Fin (Finserts) threaded inserts

for plastic offer unparalleled ease and reliability for

advanced 3D printing. Their design ensures a quick and

straightforward installation process, saving time and

reducing labor efforts. Furthermore, the strong hold they

provide ensures longevity and reliability in all projects.

E-Z Sonic heat stake inserts can be installed with a

soldering iron work by heating the insert to a temperature

beyond the melting point of the thermoplastic. Holes are

printed or drilled and the heat stake insert is pushed into

place, melting the plastic around it. E-Z Sonic inserts

work well with 3D printing applications and products

made from similar materials.

E-Z LOK offers both the E-Z Sonic and E-Z Press

inserts in assortment kits that contain a variety of

either metric or imperial threaded inserts and matching

installation tools.

E-Z LOK is a leading manufacturer and master

distributor of threaded inserts for metal, plastic and

wood. Inserts for metal include solid wall and helical

wire-thread inserts, while inserts for plastic feature

press-in and ultrasonic/heat stake designs. Those for

wood are die cast zinc alloy hex drives for soft wood and

brass knife threads for hardwood. A variety of kits for the

above inserts are available and feature installation tools,

drill bits, etc.


EZ-LOK

DOWN

1 REFERRING TO 300 SERIES STAINLESS

FASTENERS

2 DIAGONAL ANGLE

4 NURSE, ABBR.

5 ____ SCREW: THE MALE THREADED PART

6 TO _____ BOARDS TOGETHER IN

CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS, USE

CARRIAGE BOLTS

7 NOZZLE

8 _____ FIT: AMOUNT OF OVERLAP

BETWEEN TWO OBJECTS

11 TELLURIUM SYMBOL

12 SEE 17 DOWN

17 THE EXTERIOR SURFACE OF A SPHERICAL

OR CYLINDRICAL OBJECT, GOES WITH

12 DOWN

19 ____ BOLTS

20 ____ CROPPER (INSTALLATION TOOL

ATTACHMENT)

23 CURVED DEVICES FOR CATCHING OR

HOLDING

24 PROCEDURES TO DETERMINE QUALITY

OF FASTENERS, SAY

26 BE INDEBTED FINANCIALLY

27 ERODED, WITH INTO

29 CLEVER HUMOR

ACROSS

1 NON-PROFIT INSTITUTE THAT OVERSEES

CONSENSUS STANDARDS FOR PRODUCTS, ABBR.

3 THEY INDICATE THE MATERIAL AND STRENGTH OF

A FASTENER

9 FORMING OR CUTTING OUT PARTS WITH DIES

10 DRILL ACCESSORIES

13 CAREFULLY EXAMINE OR SCRUTINIZE FOR QUALITY

14 WHEN COLD FORMING, PRODUCE A FASTENER

BEFORE THREADING WITH TWO DIFFERENT

DIAMETERS

15 ANGER

16 INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR STANDARDS, ABBR.

18 _____ THREAD: ANOTHER NAME FOR

INTERNAL THREAD

20 SIGNAL TO PERFORM AN ACTION

21 OPENING BRIEFING

22 HAND TOOL USED TO TIGHTEN OR LOOSEN

FASTENERS LIKE NUTS AND BOLTS

25 ARE SITUATED

26 SPOKEN, NOT WRITTEN

28 TAPERS

30 TANTALUM SYMBOL

31 COLLECTION OF NECESSARY EQUIPMENT

OR TOOLS

32 ALTER THE DIRECTION OF TORQUE IN A POWER DRILL

33 OBJECTS FORMED BY MOLDS


76


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

MAFDA: THE 2025 ANNUAL GOLF OUTING

by Natalie Barr

MAFDA hosted their Annual Golf Outing on Tuesday,

May 20th, 2025 and it was a great success! During this

event, members had a chance to enjoy a day on the

greens and the opportunity to network with peers in

the fastener industry. The event kicked off with a great

lunch provided by the club, then members golfed during

the afternoon and evening. We ended the event with a

fantastic happy hour, dinner, and raffle prizes.

We are also proud to say that we have raised over

$250K since our inception for scholarships destined

for students whose parents work in the Fastener

industry. At the end of the event, two students

received scholarships for 2025: Lauren Barr, attending

Rutgers University, representing Stelfast Corporation,

and Joshua Monteiro, attending the University of

ASSOCIATION ARTICLE

Massachusetts, representing Fall River Manufacturing.

These scholarships will provide them the financial

help to further their education and pursue their dream

careers.

Through these types of events, the association

continues to grow. We are always searching for new

ideas, programs, and ways to expand and educate the

membership. If you would like to learn more about how

to become a member, or our Board Members, Hall of

Fame Members, upcoming events, past events, and

companies, please visit the MAFDA website!

The Mid-Atlantic Fastener Distributors

Association: Background

The Mid-Atlantic Fastener Distributors Association

(MAFDA) is a volunteer organization recognizing the

equal importance of all industry segments. The MAFDA

fully embraces the quadrangle of business entities that

encompass and support the regional fastener distribution

industry. Distributors, Manufacturers, Importers, and

Sales Representatives are all encouraged to join and

participate in common interest agendas.

MID-ATLANTIC FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION


Suncor Stainless is the leading

manufacturer for stainless steel hardware

in the industrial, marine, government,

architectural, OEM and commercial industries.

Suncor Stainless announces the launch of a

new line of Forged Surface Fixed Mount Grab &

Slip Hooks.

These new Grab & Slip Hooks represent

integral components within the industrial

landscape, facilitating the secure lifting and

manipulation of loads, and designed to handle

heavy loads across diverse sectors.

Durability is paramount, especially in harsh

environments and applications. The new line

of Forged Surface Fixed Mount Grab & Slip

Hooks is made from grade 316 stainless

steel and are built to withstand corrosive

substances, extreme temperatures, and rugged

conditions, ensuring uninterrupted performance

in challenging settings. Ease of use is

another key consideration. Innovative features

like quick-release mechanisms streamline

handling processes and enhance productivity.

In environments like chemical plants and

construction sites, where conditions are harsh

and demanding, durable and reliable hooks are

indispensable.

The 316 stainless steel guarantees optimal

performance and longevity. The Grab Hooks

accommodate a chain size range of ¼” –

½” and support working load limits (WLLs)

with a range from 2,200 lbs. to 7,300 lbs

(998 kg – 3,311 kg), while the Slip Hooks supports

working load limits (WLLs) with a range from 1,500

lbs. to 4,000 lbs. (680 kg – 1,814 kg). Note: For

weld-on options, the working load limit depends on

the quality of the weld attached.

“Hooks serve critical roles in various industries,

our hooks offer unmatched versatility and

adaptability to suit diverse operational needs,

ensuring a secure and stable attachment in any

setting.” commented Patrick Striebel, President/

CEO.

Suncor’s new line of surface mount hooks

exemplifies the industry’s commitment to innovation

and excellence. Engineered with cutting-edge

technology, these hooks set new standards for

performance and safety across diverse industries.

For more information contact Suncor Stainless

at 70 Armstrong Road, Plymouth, MA 02360. Tel:

1-800-218-7702, Email: info@suncorstainless.com

or visit them online at www.suncorstainless.com.




82


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

JOIN US IN KEY WEST AT THE

NFDA EXECUTIVE SUMMIT by Amy Nijjar

Spend three unforgettable days learning from

industry experts, connecting with fastener friends old

and new, and soaking up the Florida sunshine. Between

insightful sessions and networking opportunities, you’ll

have plenty of time to enjoy optional activities that

make the most of this tropical paradise. Don’t miss this

perfect blend of business and relaxation!

When: October 15-17, 2025

Where: Casa Marina Resort, Key West, FL

Hotel

A legendary landmark destination — Casa Marina

Resort embodies the character of Old Key West yet

is steeped in contemporary style. Built in 1920,

Casa Marina has served as a home to presidents, a

playground to Hollywood stars, and an evocative tropical

retreat offering an alluring array of essential Key West

experiences, just minutes from the vibrant and eclectic

Duval Street.

Reserve your room by Tuesday, September 23 to

receive the NFDA group rate. However, rooms may sell

out prior to the deadline, so book today!

For more information about the Executive Summit,

visit the Events page at www.nfda-fastener.org. Questions?

ASSOCIATION ARTICLE

Contact Jamie Adams at jamie@nfda-fastener.org or

562-400-3009.

NFDA Calendar of Events

October 1, 2025

Fastener Certifications and

Test Reports Virtual Program

October 15-17, 2025

Executive Summit, Key West, FL

June 17-19, 2026

Annual Meeting & ESPS, Indianapolis, IN

October 28-30, 2026

Executive Summit, Palm Desert, CA

For more information about NFDA and its programs,

visit www.nfda-fastener.org or call 562-799-5519.



NFDA 2025 ANNUAL MEETING & ESPS

CHARLOTTE, NC - JUNE 11-13, 2025


86


LAURENCE CLAUS AEROSPACE FASTENERS PART 3 - AEROSPACE DESIGNATIONS AND PART NUMBERING from page 8

Part Numbering

Although standard committees generally attempt to

keep the format of their standards and designations as

uniform as possible, the NAS family of standards actually

employs two slightly different part-numbering schemes.

For individuals that routinely work with these standards,

it is important that they understand these two different

methods.

¤ Method 1 - The first method is the more common

methodology. In this method the standard is given a single

base part number followed by a first “dash number” to

provide the appropriate diameter size. For example, the

part number may appear something like NAS XXXX- 6. The

‘6’ in this instance would correspond to the diameter size

(0.3750”-24) as specified in that particular standard. The

number that is used is uniform across all the standards,

however, users must be careful to not confuse the dash

number for gage number diameters below a #8 (.1640”).

As an example, a #4-40 diameter thread (0.112”-40) has

a dash number of “04”. It is important that this dash

number not be confused with the dash number of “4”,

which is equivalent to a ¼-28 (0.2500”-28) diameter.

Figures 2 and 3 illustrate this dash number method. The

“second Dash Number” gives the overall length and the

Total Length can be calculated by multiplying that number

by 0.0625 inches (1/16”). So, for example, a second

FIGURE 2: EXAMPLE OF FIRST

DASH NUMBERS STARTING WITH

#4-40 DIAMETER (NOTE: “04” IS

NOT THE SAME AS “4”.)

FIGURE 3: EXAMPLE OF FIRST

DASH NUMBER STARTING WITH

#10-32 DIAMETER

dash number of “16” is equivalent to a one-inch length.

¤ Method 2 - The second method represents a

single part type that is given a unique standard number

for each diameter size. For example, NAS 8602-8616

is a standard for 100° reduced countersunk head shear

bolts, where NAS 8602 is a #8-32 diameter, NAS 8603

is a #10-32 diameter and so on until NAS 8616, which

concludes the series in a 1”-12 diameter. The “first

dash number” gives grip and length information. Figure 4

illustrates standard parts utilizing this Method 2.

FIGURE 4: EXAMPLE OF METHOD 2 - BASIC PART NUMBER

FOR EACH DIAMETER SIZ

Other Codes

In addition to the diameter and length sizes given

by the methods above, many of these parts have codes

for material options, recess types, finish types, locking

features, and lubricants. These are given by letters.

The position of these codes in the designation depends

on the number of options included in the standard.

For example, if the only attribute that is variable on a

standard part is the material, there will only be one set

of letter codes. On the other hand, if a part has optional

embodiments for material, recess type, finish, and locking

feature, there could be four different letter codes in the

designation. Each standard provides one or more part

number examples (see Figure 5) that provide a “legend”

or map for the position of each code and dash number in

the designation.



88


ROB LaPOINTE CONFORMANCE STATEMENTS AND THE DECISION RULE – HOW IT AFFECTS YOUR TEST RESULTS from page 10

FIGURE 2 THE MEASUREMENT OF THE LENGTH OF A

COMB USING A RULER

Where does the error in measurement come from?

There are many possible sources of error when making

measurements. We will discuss a few of them here.

Primarily, error comes from the measuring tool itself.

Inherent in every tool used to make a measurement

is an amount of precision that delivers what is called

significance, to the measurements made with that tool.

Significance is the precision of the tool and a best guess

to what lies just beyond the precision of the tool. For

example, when measuring the comb in Figure 2, we align

one end of the comb at zero and we see that the other

end of the comb aligns with the 4-inch mark on the ruler.

The precision of the ruler is its finest marks. For this ruler,

its finest marks are sixteenths of an inch, so its precision

is 1/16 inch. It appears that the comb is precisely at

four inches. When we record this measurement to the

significance of the ruler, we would write down the four

inches, which we can clearly see is its length compared to

the ruler, but also, we need to write down the guess. The

guess is our best estimate about the length of the comb

between marks on the ruler. It appears that the comb

falls right on the four-inch mark with zero additional length

FIGURE 3 A CALIPER WITH THE PRECISION OF 0.001 INCH

beyond this mark. We would

record the length as 64.0

sixteenths (16/16 x 4) inch

with our best guess being zero

sixteenths additional length.

Following this practice

allows for the precision of the

tool used to make the measurement to be communicated

to all who read and use the measurement. The precision

of the tool used is always the number before the last

number written. The number before zero is 4, which is

in the one’s place of the decimal for the sixteenth inch

unit, indicating that the precision is in that decimal place.

The precision is 1/16-inch. It would be incorrect to record

the length of the comb as 4.0-inch because that would

indicate that the precision of the tool used is one inch

since the number preceding the last number written is in

the one’s place of the decimal for the inch unit.

It's the act of measuring with a tool, which inherently

has limited precision, that is a primary source of error.

As the precision of a measuring tool increases, the

inherent error of the measurements made with the tool

decreases. Better tools make better measurements. The

caliper in Figure 3 has more precision than the ruler in

Figure 2, but both tools are used to measure the same

thing, length. The caliper has a precision of 0.001-inch

(one-thousandth inch). You can see that the display on

the caliper reads 0.493, which is 493-thousands of an

inch. You might be wondering, where is the guess that

should be added to the significance of the recorded

value. Notice the small 5 to the right of 0.493. That’s

the guess. The correct way to record this measurement

is 0.4935-inch. We see here that the precision of the

tool is one-thousandth inch, but the significance of

the measurement extends to one-ten thousandth inch.

This caliper’s guess alternates between 0 and 5 as

its encoders indicate which side of the halfway point

between thousands it’s on. The precision of a tool

can increase significantly with better technology but

can never be infinite. There will always be errors in

measurements associated with measurement tools.



Lindfast Solutions Group, a Nautic Partners

portfolio company, is pleased to announce the

appointment of Steven Dean as Chief Commercial

Officer, effective immediately.

LSG is a Master Distributor of Standard

and Specialty Fasteners (Metric, Imperial,

Stainless, and Exotic) and Tapes with Specialty

Manufacturing capabilities servicing a broad

base of national, regional and local distribution

customers in North America through its industry

leading product brands.

Prior to joining LindFast Solutions Group (LSG),

Steven served as Group President for the Glass

and Glazing division - Oldcastle Building Envelope,

driving commercial success and organizational

growth. Before his time at Oldcastle, Steven

held multiple senior and executive leadership

positions at Anixter Inc. and later WESCO,

including roles as Senior Vice President and

Executive Vice President of Sales-Utility Power

Solutions. During this time, he played a pivotal

role in the successful integration of the two

companies and in shaping the newly unified

WESCO organization.

As Chief Commercial Officer at LSG, Steven

will be responsible for leading the company’s

overarching commercial strategy - including

sales, marketing, and business development

initiatives. His focus includes driving integrated

sales processes, channel diversification, and

vertical market expansion in alignment with

LSG strategy. In this capacity, Steven will also

oversee the structure and performance of the

sales organization, guide KPI development and

tracking, and foster talent growth and career

development across the commercial team.

“Joining LindFast Solutions Group is an incredible

opportunity,” said Steven. “LSG’s commitment to

its core values, customer-centric philosophy, and

portfolio of industry leading product brands make

it an outstanding workplace, I look forward to

contributing to this dynamic team.”

“Bringing Steven on board as our Chief

Commercial Officer is more than a hiring decision

- it’s a strategic leap forward,” said Mike Spencer,

CEO at LindFast Solutions Group.

“His leadership style is hands-on, empathetic,

and results driven. Steven leads from the front,

mentors with intention, and deeply engages with

customers and vendor partners. I’ve had the

privilege of working with him for years, and I know

he’ll be an exceptional partner as we grow and

evolve.”

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 non-economical

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.

90


BRUNO MARBACHER INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, TRADEMARK, COPYRIGHT AND PATENTS from page 12

Patent protection is

given to inventions and

industrial designs (and

even plants).

A patent gives the

inventor the exclusive

right to exclude others

from making, using,

offering for sale, or

selling the invention.

Patents have different terms:

¤ Utility patents are good for 20 years if the item is

actually produced

¤ Design patents are good for 14 years, if the items

are not produced

Design patents are often done to prevent competitors

from making and or selling a product. In our industry

patented inventions are utility patents therefore they are

typically valid for 20 years.

Trademarks

A trademark is a distinctive design, graphics, logo,

symbols, words, or any

combination thereof that

uniquely identifies a firm

and/or its products or

services.

A trademark gives the

owner the right to prevent

others from using a

confusing, similar mark,

distinguishing the source of the goods or services from

the goods or services of others. It is typically attached

to the item sold, must be registered with the appropriate

authority to obtain legal ownership and protection

rights. The circled “R” symbol ® is used exclusively for

trademarks that have been officially registered with the

United States Patent and Trademark Office

A TM usually is used in connection with an unregistered

mark, to inform potential infringers that a term, slogan,

logo etc. is being claimed as a trademark.

Trademark rights are usually issued for 7 to 20 years

and, unlike with patents, they are renewable indefinitely.

Differences Between Patents And Trademark

¤ Patents and trademarks are often confused.

¤ Patents protect new and useful inventions, from

gadgets to pharmaceuticals to software.

¤ Trademarks protect brand names, logos and other

source designators.

¤ Patents prevent competitors from making, selling

or using anything which is or includes the patented

innovation.

¤ Trademarks prevent competitors from using

confusingly similar trademarks.

¤ Trademarks do not prevent competitors from

making, selling and using the innovation.

¤ Trademarks provide exclusivity to the use of the

trademark.

¤ Patents provide exclusivity to the use/sale of the

innovation.

Do not protect an innovation by a trademark when a

patent is possible

Again, trademark exclusivity runs to the brand name,

not the product. Patent exclusivity applies to the

product, and not the brand name.

Fastener Insignia Registration With The US

Patent And Trademark Office

and

Yes, fastener insignia registration with the US Patent

Trademark

Office (USPTO) is still

active and required

by the Fastener

Quality Act (FQA).

The FQA mandates

that certain industrial

fasteners bear an

insignia

the

identifying

manufacturer,

and this insignia

must be recorded

with the USPTO. This process ensures that fasteners

comply with quality standards.



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

SEFA 2026 SPRING CONFERENCE - APRIL 28th-30th by Nancy Rich

The 2026 SEFA

Spring Conference

will be held at the

Embassy Suites

Greenville Golf

Resort & Conference

Center in Greenville,

SC. The conference center is adjacent to the Preserve at

Verdae golf course, six miles from downtown Greenville,

and 15 minutes from the airport with a complimentary

shuttle service available within a five-mile radius. On-site

amenities include made-to-order breakfast, evening

receptions, swimming pools, and a fitness center.

Further information about the conference’s educational

programs, informational sessions, social activities, and

networking opportunities will be provided as it becomes

available.

ASSOCIATION ARTICLE

SEFA Summer Social

SEFA celebrated summer by inviting members and

fastener friends to join them July 24th at Good Game

in Atlanta, GA. Several fastener personnel attended

enjoying drinks, appetizers, and their sport of choice. Many

attendees were able to leave with a raffle prize thanks to

our donors of DIFCO, Metric & Multistandard, Star Stainless

Screw and SEFA. It was definitely a fun evening of spots

and networking.

As SEFA Socials continue to grow in attendance and

popularity, we have planned a Holiday SEFA Social for

December 4th downtown Greenvlle, SC. Watch for more

info coming soon!

SEFA Welcomes New Member

¤ Setko Fasteners & Distribution - Hampshire, IL

SOUTHEASTERN FASTENER ASSOCIATION

92


COMPUTER INSIGHTS VMI & SIGNATURE CAPTURE TRANSFORM OPERATIONS REVOLUTIONIZING FASTENER DISTRIBUTION from page 14


enables precise tracking of

product usage patterns, sophisticated inventory level

controls, and extensive customer service options that

were previously impossible to manage efficiently with

other ERP systems.

The comprehensive nature of The Business

Edge TM delivers substantial time and resource savings,

directly translating to cost reductions and improved

operational efficiency across all levels of the organization—

advantages that set Computer Insights apart from other

ERP providers.

Real-Time Data Integration


native mobile capabilities

are integrated directly into Computer Insights’ ERP

architecture, providing unparalleled access speed and

functionality. Field personnel benefit from continuously

expanding feature sets as Computer Insights, Inc.

adds new capabilities to meet evolving industry needs.

Customer inquiries, detailed product information, and

order processing are seamlessly integrated into The

Business Edge TM

mobile platform.

Access to up-to-the-second information through


empowers sales representatives

and service personnel to provide exceptional customer

experiences and make informed decisions instantly,

regardless of their physical location.

Advanced Data Capture and Processing

Computer Insights, Inc. has revolutionized fastener

distribution through The Business Edge TM advanced real-time

data capture and transfer capabilities. The system provides

instant access to critical business intelligence, including

detailed product trend analysis and comprehensive usage

patterns. Fast order transmission speeds ensure quick and

accurate order processing, setting new industry benchmarks

for efficiency and accuracy.

Signature Capture functionality has eliminated

traditional paperwork bottlenecks, simplified order entry

processes, and enhanced proof of delivery procedures.

This digital transformation reduces errors, improves audit

trails, and accelerates the entire order fulfillment cycle.

Superior Customer Service Through Technology

The success of fastener distributors increasingly

depends on their ability to deliver consistent, highquality

customer service. The Business Edge TM

has proven

instrumental in achieving this objective, with distributors

reporting improved responsiveness and enhanced support

capabilities when using Computer Insights’ solutions.



94


FLUSH FASTENERS REINVENTING THE FASTENER: HOW THE F-HEAD IS TURNING HEADS ACROSS INDUSTRIES from page 22

While the functionality of the F-head sets a new

standard, its appearance is what often stops people

in their tracks. At first glance, it appears as a perfectly

smooth disc, almost a manufacturing anomaly. But upon

closer inspection, a near-invisible seam, finer than a

human hair, hints at something more. This minimalistic

beauty isn’t just by design; it is the design.

What was engineered for cleanliness has since

become a favorite in industries where aesthetics matter.

From custom yachts and high-performance vehicles

to luxury furniture and architectural installations, the

F-head offers a unique blend of form, fit, and function.

The benefits of a flush, sealed surface extend

beyond visual appeal. In high-performance sectors, the

F-head has been adopted for its ability to reduce drag

PHOTO COURESY OF RELEASE MARINE

and surface turbulence. Top automobile race teams and

even wind powered marine racing teams have integrated

these fasteners into their designs for their aerodynamic

and hydrodynamic advantages. The all 316 stainless

steel construction makes them ideal for these marine

applications.

This unexpected versatility underscores the broader

relevance of the F-head, proving that a product

engineered for cleanliness can deliver across applications

where durability, sleekness, and minimalism are equally

valued.

The F-head doesn’t just improve upon traditional

fasteners, it redefines them. By elevating a mechanical

component to a visible and intentional design element, it

challenges long-held assumptions about what deserves

attention in a finished product.

With domestic and international patents secured, and

adoption growing across a diverse range of industries, the

F-head fastener may very well be the most meaningful

advancement in fastener technology since the 1930s.

Sizes range from a tiny 1.4mm diameter up to 12mm in

metric sizes and #6-32 up to ½”-13 in S.A.E. sizes.

In a world that often hides the hardware, the Flush

Fastener dares to be seen.

For further information please reach out to slinnecar@

flushfasteners.com or info@flushfasteners.com.

FLUSH FASTENERS

96


ERIC DUDAS UNTHREADED: THE ZAMBONI CALL HOW A LONG SHOT CALL SET A TONE TO INSPIRE THE FASTENER INDUSTRY... from page 24

He’s widely known as the founder and long-time

publisher of Distributor’s Link Magazine, but during his

54 year fastener career Leo also launched several other

businesses, including Naples, Florida based Aluminum

Fastener Supply Company.

During the podcast, Leo states that he decided to

target the niche aluminum market after asking himself:

“What kind of bidness (sic) can I be in where the big guys

can’t chew me up?”

Next time you see a window frame, jet ski or EV,

imagine how many aluminum fasteners there are out

there.

“Leo called inventor Frank Zamboni

and explained his situation, suggesting

perhaps they could strike a deal...”

The answer lies in the fact that almost forty years

later, Aluminum Fasteners is still going strong. That’s

called business savvy.

But it wasn’t easy. In those early days, freshly out

of the Navy and as a hardcore hockey player turned ice

rink operator, money was in short supply. So Leo called

inventor Frank Zamboni in California and explained his

situation, suggesting perhaps they could strike a deal to

get him and his partners over the hump with their new

venture.

The Zamboni machine began to revolutionize the

ice rink business in 1950, but they still weren’t widely

available. Even Madison Square Garden didn’t have one

at the time.

Leo’s bold and fortuitous call was rewarded when

Zamboni offered him a sweetheart, long-term loan deal

that sustained the business for twenty years, and it was

eventually paid in full.

That kind of imagination, long-game thinking and

ingenuity combined with pure grit is what inspires

so many fastener professionals still today, whether

business owners, application engineers, reps or any

other stripe of solution provider. They’re the backbone of

this vibrant industry.

Radio.

DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK MAGAZINE FOUNDER AND PUBLISHER,

LEO COAR, TRACES HIS FASTENER CAREER TO 1954, JUST

FOUR YEARS AFTER THE ZAMBONI MACHINE CHANGED

THE WAY HOCKEY RINKS RESURFACE ICE

It’s also what inspires us to produce Fully Threaded

So if you’ve ever paused at an airport terminal to

silently critique bolt spacing, or sized up a handrail

bracket on a ski lift, you’re not alone—and this episode

is for you.

Hear Leo Coar’s story on Fully Threaded Radio at

www.fullythreaded.com.

Back to the opening question, I still don’t know how

many cap screws go into a Zamboni. (It wouldn’t surprise

me if Leo does though.) Regardless, the fact that the

question even popped into my head says a lot about the

way this industry rewires you, and also the way it wires

us all together.

Now get out there and sell some screws.

ERIC DUDAS


With the appointment of Dr Lenuta Gontaru

as Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Titgemeyer

is expanding its executive board. This decision

significantly enhances the company’s own

development and manufacturing capabilities –

a clear advantage for

customers who rely on

innovative and costeffective

fastening

systems, automation

solutions, and vehicle

components.

Titgemeyer has

been a reliable partner

and manufacturer with

multiple production

sites for decades.

With Dr Lenuta Gontaru, the company is further

strengthening its position as a technology

partner for its customers.

“We aim to develop solutions that help our

customers tackle their challenges efficiently

and economically,” explains Dr Lenuta Gontaru.

The experienced engineer brings over 15 years

of international industrial experience, including

within the automotive supply industry, and will

be responsible for the company’s strategic

direction in technology and innovation.

A key focus of her work lies in the continued

modernisation of production processes and

the targeted implementation of automation. In

doing so, Titgemeyer aims to further enhance

its manufacturing while remaining flexible in

responding to changing customer requirements.

“Our technologies are designed to provide fast

and robust solutions that deliver genuine added

value,” says Gontaru.

Looking ahead, Titgemeyer is positioning

itself as a technology-driven manufacturer with

in-house development and modern production

capabilities – making an important contribution

to the industry. The focus is particularly on the

automotive sector, as well as companies in transport

and mobility, agricultural technology, and heating,

ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC).

Titgemeyer is a leading international provider

in the fields of fastening technology, automation

solutions, and vehicle components. With over

500 employees across 12 European locations,

this family-owned company, headquartered in

Osnabrück, Germany, can look back on more than

120 years of success.

Its portfolio comprises around 30,000 products,

developed and manufactured both in series and

in customised versions to meet specific customer

needs.

For more information about Titgemeyer,

contact them at Hannoversche Straße 97, 49084

Osnabrück, Germany. Tel: +49 541 58 22-0, email:

sales@titgemeyer.com or visit them online at

www.titgemeyer.com.

98


ROBERT FOOTLIK THE “5-STAR” WAREHOUSE – GALLOPING AHEAD - SEASON 2, EPISODE 1 from page 26

It will not be a merger, partnership or acquisition:

more like a ‘cooperative’ maybe. We should let the

attorneys, accountants and the IRS figure it out and that

will take months.

In the meantime, let’s get to work.”

“OK, I agreed, “what’s the first step.”

In what I now call “typical Mike” he replied, “We

already did that. Did you happen to notice that two of

my staff members stopped clapping, took out their cell

phone and started frantically texting?

From The Outside In And The Inside Out

“I’m not sure how it will appear on the books,”

Mike continued, “but we have budgeted $500,000

upfront to make things happen. Remodeling the outside

of your existing building and parking area will cost an

estimated $200,000. Jennifer who is responsible for

our maintenance and facilities just sent a text to Daisy

our landscape architect authorizing her to immediately

start on preliminary plans. Right about now Daisy is

probably checking Google Earth and Google Street View

for ideas and she will see you tomorrow morning to

take measurements, assess the existing vegetation and

interview you and your staff for preferences. Based on

our experience with her outstanding designs, I am sure

that everyone will approve quickly. We are late in the

planting season and have to move fast so that everything

will take root and blossom in the spring.

With a preliminary plan in place no later than next

Monday, the landscape crew will be on premises to clear

out the old landscaping in preparation for the irrigation

crew that will follow on their heels. If Daisy and the

landscaper can obtain the right plants and sod, the

work will be completed within two weeks and then the

pavers will start on the parking lot, planters and other

hard features. All that began with Jennifer texting your

address.

Jennifer is really unique. The only thing she likes

more than fixing stuff is making sure it never breaks. For

her the best repair is one that is done before you need

it. She will be looking at your repair/maintenance records

to identify any repair or replace situations. In addition, if

you can provide her with the utility bills she will start your

staff on a program to chart these expenses, establishing

a baseline cost and then tracking changes such as

cost reductions. Simple stuff using a spreadsheet to

accumulate data and perhaps exporting the data to an

Artificial Intelligence (AI) program to identify areas of

concentration for controlling costs.

Meanwhile, Bob, our IT guru sent a message to

‘Wonder Working Warehouse’ (WWW) software asking

for an immediate quotation on upgrading your WMS

to the same version we use so that our systems can

communicate with each other. The initial budget for the

software and some hardware is another $200,000.

As an Industrial Engineer, Bob will also be at your

doorstep tomorrow morning to measure and evaluate

your existing layout looking for areas of immediate

improvement to save steps and improve both quality and

safety. His changes, if you and your staff agree, will be

implemented as quickly and painlessly as possible.

Bob will bring a label printer with him and start

creating inventory locations for your current context.

While you already have an overall numbering system, he

will take things to a high level by defining smaller areas,

such as sub-divided drawers or portions of a shelf. I’ll

warn you he has a perverse sense of humor and is

likely to use an Emoji as a prefix or suffice for a bar

code number. This provides a way to differentiate your

numbering systems from ours using a hidden emoji code.

Externally, the new labels are likely to be light green or

yellow so humans can differentiate them too. These are

a ‘throw away stepping stone” to a more permanent

scheme once the inventory is evaluated in terms of

movement and placement in the warehouse. It is easy

for him to generate labels using WWW, but they will need

to be applied to the warehouse racks and shelving. This

is where Bob’s aunt Agatha comes in.



100


JOE DYSART HOWTO ENSURE THE WEBINAR FOR YOUR FASTENER DISTRIBUTORSHIP IS NOT A SNOOZEFEST from page 28

Even better: You can incentivize registration and

sign-up further for your fastener distributorship webinar

by offering a freebie like an exclusive ebook, cheat sheet,

report -- or even a discount. Even more enticements:

Offer earlier sign-ups, priority Q&A access or exclusive

networking opportunities during and/or after the webinar.

¤ Be Sure You Have Killer Content That Converts:

Seasoned webinar pros also find that if you’re to make

your content sing, you’re more than halfway there to

pulling-off your event in style.

In practical terms, that means launching your webinar

presentation with an eye-opening hook that will grab the

typical fastener customer, which could include a riveting

statistic or thought-provoking question.

Throughout the webinar, also be sure you’re solving

a clearly defined pain point -- or set of pain points. And

also be sure to stay out of the clouds, meaning, if you plan

on making your points stick, you’ll need vivid, real-world

examples to back-up what you’re saying.

You’ll also earn bonus points with fastener users if

you offer one or more takeaway strategies or tactics that

they can implement as soon as they leave your webinar.

Observes Bianca Belman-Adams, director, MADhouse

Creative Agency, a digital marketing services provider: “If

your webinar is mainly a person speaking with nothing

to look at and minimal engagement, it might as well be

a podcast. Make your webinar visually stimulating with

relevant graphics, images and videos.”

¤ Be Totally Prepared Technically: This is one

MANY WEBINAR PLATFORMS OFFER A NUMBER OF

SUPPLEMENTAL TOOLS – SUCH AS THE ABILITY TO OFFER POLLS

AND SURVEYS DURING OR AFTER THE WEBINAR

ALSO BE SURE TO HAVE A TECH SUPPORT PERSON ON HAND –

JUST IN CASE THINGS GET SQUIRRELLY

of those details that often seems minor -- until everything

grinds to a halt and someone gets the job to serve-up a

scapegoat.

Avoid such unpleasantness by double-testing all your

tech in advance and making sure all the audio, video,

screen sharing, slides and other interactivity is working.

As for WiFi-driven webinars: Those can be fine and

dandy in many situations. But for your presentation, you’ll

want to stick to a hardwired Internet connection to avoid

unforeseen catastrophes.

Some webinar pros -- the ones who also wear belts

with suspenders -- even add a back-up, mobile hotspot to

their prep kit, just in case their hardwire connection fails.

In a perfect world, your fastener distributorship

should also have a tech support person or team at your

side, just in case things go squirrelly. Plus, you may also

want to use third-party software to record your webinar

for future use -- just in case the onboard recording tools

decide to get kludgy.

Observes MADhouse’s Belman-Adams: “You should

feel confident and prepared for any challenges that may

arise during the webinar. If anything does go wrong and

you don’t have a plan in place, your company will end up

looking unprepared and unprofessional.”


102


LARRY BOROWSKI INSPECTING HEX SOCKET RECESSES from page 30

Charts for the required sizes of hex socket gages for

both inch and metric hex socket recesses follow. These

charts only cover the most popular range of screw sizes.

Those interested in smaller or larger sizes should

review the specifications I have listed above. There is only

one series of hex socket gage sizes for inch screws which

is found in ASME B18.3.

In the case of metric hex socket products, it can get

confusing. Initially and in place for many years, there

were several metric gaging standards found in the ASME,

ISO, DIN, & JIS product standards. Over the years,

the standards committees started consolidating and

simplifying the gaging criteria for metric Hexagon recesses.

ASME B18.3.1M was withdrawn and superseded by ISO

4762 in 2004. Furthermore, the other standards such as

DIN 912, ISO 4026, 4027, 4029, as well as ISO 4762 all

removed their gaging sections and replaced it with a note

to see ISO 23429. ISO 23429 is now the only current

Metric Gaging standard for Hex recesses. The reality is

that there are still several users of the old standards,

so we still need to be careful when selecting the proper

gages for older specification references. Below is a

chart that gives an overview of the various metric gaging

standards out there.

The big difference was really in the NoGo gaging

member as all standards did not agree as you can see

below. The Go gaging which also was used for penetration

depth gaging was all the same across the standards.

The best thing to do is work to current standards where

everything metric points to ISO 23429 a common gage

design, but if that is not possible, let the chart below

guide you.

Beyond the gaging size differences shown above, the

application of the gaging is the same regardless of the

standard being used or whether you have Inch or Metric

recesses. The use of the GO and NOGO plug gages to

inspect hex socket recesses is quite simple.



LARRY BOROWSKI INSPECTING HEX SOCKET RECESSES from page 102

The hex shaped GO element must enter the full socket

depth without interference. The Nogo element can

either be hexagon shaped or rectangular shaped based

on the socket size. For sizes up to and including 7/64”

for inch recesses and 3.0mm for metric recesses,

the gaging members are hexagon shaped. Above

these sizes, the shape of the nogo member changes

to a rectangle. The hexagon shaped gage is straight

forward, it should not go into the recess. The

rectangular shaped NOGO element is a little different,

and must not enter the socket in any of its three across

flats orientations.

What some standards refer to as “key engagement”

is the minimum penetration depth of the socket recess.

The GO size hex element must enter the screw’s recess

at least the minimum depth freely to be acceptable.

I have based my comments on hex socket head

cap screws only. The same requirements and related

gages and gaging techniques apply to hex socket button

heads, flat heads, set screws, and shoulder screws.

Hex socket products are designed to be the highest

performing commercial grade of externally threaded

products. The quality of the hex recess in these parts

is critical to their proper performance. The gages and

techniques explained above should always be used to

thoroughly inspect the recesses in these products thus

making sure they meet the specification requirements.

LARRY BOROWSKI | GREENSLADE & COMPANY INC

104


NELSON VALDERRAMA TARIFF CHECKMATE: STRATEGIC MOVES FOR DISTRIBUTORS FACING THE GLOBAL TRADE BOARD from page 32

Board Analysis:

¤ Strategic Advantages: Simple to execute

and explain; maintains established margin structures;

preserves piece positioning.

¤ Vulnerabilities: Creates pricing instability during

frequent tariff fluctuations; exposes flanks to competitors

who absorb costs; may sacrifice customer pawns.

Grandmaster’s Notes: “When we implemented

direct pass-through for the Section 301 tariffs, we

initially sacrificed 4% of customers but maintained our

position with 96% through proper communication. The

key was transparent messaging that positioned the

increases as industry-wide position changes rather than

company-specific moves.”

Position Check: How quickly can your pieces

respond to price changes across the board? Is your sales

team equipped to explain the customer relationship

strategy effectively?

Move 2: The Transparent Exchange

The Position: This tactical approach reveals your

thinking openly, isolating tariff-related costs as separate

line items on all customer documentation—from quotes

to invoices.

Board Analysis:

¤ Strategic Advantages: Builds trust through

transparency; minimizes disputed positions; enables

negotiations with vendors for similar clarity; strengthens

defensive formation.

¤ Vulnerabilities: Requires sophisticated

calculation abilities; may highlight price advances that

could otherwise blend into total position.

Grandmaster’s Notes: “Implementing surcharge

transparency increased our customer retention rate by

12% during major tariff shifts compared to competitors

using bundled pricing. We discovered customers value

honest position disclosure about external factors more

than slightly lower prices with hidden advances.”

Position Check: Does your current analysis system

support dynamic surcharge calculations? Have you

trained your customer service team to explain these

moves effectively?

Move 3: The Adaptive Combination

The Position: Like chess grandmasters employing

different tactics across various board sectors, this hybrid

approach combines multiple strategies, selectively

applying different moves based on customer segments,

product categories, and competitive landscapes.

Board Analysis:

¤ Strategic Advantages: Maximizes positional

flexibility; allows for competitive pricing where critical;

preserves margin strength on less price-sensitive

squares.

¤ Vulnerabilities: Significantly more complex to

execute; requires sophisticated position analysis; risks

creating customer confusion about your strategy.

Grandmaster’s Notes: “Our adaptive approach

to the aluminum tariffs resulted in a 3.2% margin

improvement compared to our initial calculations. By

absorbing costs on high-volume, competitive items

while passing through costs on specialty products, we

maintained both board position and material advantage.”

Position Check: Do you have the analytical

infrastructure to evaluate price sensitivity across your

product categories? Can your team implement and

monitor diverse pricing strategies across various market

segments?

The Tariff Grandmaster Assessment

Rate your organization’s tariff strategy readiness on

a scale of 1-5:

[1] We have systems that can quickly calculate and

implement price changes across product lines. ___/5

[2] Our ERP system can isolate and track tariffspecific

elements. ___/5

[3] We can analyze customer and product data to

support selective pricing strategies. ___/5

[4] We train our sales team to communicate tariffrelated

moves effectively. ___/5

[5] We have established protocols for monitoring

opponents’ tariff announcements and impacts. ___/5



Setko Fasteners & Distribution is pleased

to announce that after more than a decade of

dedication to the company, Kelly Poholarz has

acquired full ownership and now serves as the

sole proprietor and CEO.

Kelly has been a

cornerstone of the

Setko team with

over 30 years in the

fastener industry,

guiding growth and

innovation across

a wide range of

fastener products.

This includes

socket head

cap screws, set

screws, shoulder

bolts, hex and 6-lobe keys, dowel pins, and

much more. Setko has expanded its specialty

product offerings to include items like brass and

nylon tipped set screws while also enhancing

service capabilities with options such as blanket

orders and custom finishes – all reinforcing their

role as both a domestic and import supplier.

“I’m honored to lead Setko into its next

chapter,” Kelly said. “Our unwavering focus on

quality, custom solutions, and personal service

has defined us for many years, and I’m excited

to build on that legacy.”

Founded in Hampshire, Illinois, Setko

Fasteners has grown into a trusted partner

within the industrial fastener sector, serving

North American markets with both domestic

manufactured and imported products tailored to

exact print specifications. As sole owner, Kelly

is committed to building on Setko’s strengths

in customized socket products, rapid fulfillment,

and client-focused supply chain solutions.

With Kelly at the helm, Setko Fasteners looks

forward to continuing its tradition of reliability,

innovation, and excellence for existing and

future customers across industries.

Kelly continued, “I’m incredibly proud of my team

at Setko! Their unwavering commitment to delivering

exceptional service ensures that every customer

receives a top-tier experience. Each member of the

Setko family goes above and beyond to guarantee

complete satisfaction, making customer care one of

our highest priorities.”

Setko Fasteners & Distribution is an importing

& manufacturing fastener distributor based in

Hampshire, Illinois. Setko provides a comprehensive

line of socket products from standard to custom

sizes and other specialty fasteners delivering

tailored solutions to a diverse base of industrial

and commercial clients.

Ready… Setko!

For more information about Setko Fasteners &

Distribution, contact them at 300 Klick St., Unit A,

Hampshire, IL 60140. Tel: 630-800-6377, Email:

salesy@setkofasteners.com or visit them online at

www.setkofasteners.com.

106


GUY AVELLON WHAT FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FASTENER COATINGS from page 34

Electrolytic Coating Thicknesses, Bolts

If the surface finish of the parts to be plated are

grainy in appearance, it is likely to be due to an increase

in the amount of amps-per-square foot current run through

a plating barrel. This leads to a porous plate deposit and

the possibility of hydrogen embrittlement from the chemical

electrolysis.

A problem often encountered with electroplated parts,

if not carefully managed, is the amount of current applied.

With respect to the surface area of the parts plated, the

‘throwing power’ of the metal electrolyte indicates the

amount of metal coverage around complex geometrically

shaped parts. High amounts of current will produce faster

deposition times but will also create what is termed the

‘Christmas Tree effect’ on the threads of the fasteners.

As the name ‘Christmas Tree’ implies, the thread

crests of the externally threaded fastener will receive more

metal deposit than the thread root. The thread crest is

geometrically closer to the anode and will normally receive

a little more metal deposition than the thread roots.

However, an excessive amount of metal deposit on the

thread crests will lead to problems with thread engagement

of a nut or galling.

Fortunately, the non-cyanide plating electrolytes have

reduced the frequency of this occurrence. Older electrolytes

used zinc-cyanide compounds as the plating baths were

more tolerant of oils and other contaminants being on

the products to be plated. However, their efficiency was

between 40-60 %. To speed up production the amperes are

increased, which lead to burning, flaking, higher porosity

and copious amounts of hydrogen being formed that would

cause hydrogen embrittlement on many parts.

The non-cyanide alkaline or acid systems operate at an

efficiency of around 95% and have less hydrogen evolution

at the cathode. They are less tolerant of contaminants so

pretreatments are necessary.

Coating Thickness On Nuts

Many specifications require that the nut’s thickness

should be the same as the fastener. This is unnecessary.

For one, it will create thread fit problems. As previously

mentioned, electroplating creates a ‘Christmas tree’ effect

at the thread crests of the externally threaded fastener. The

nut will have similar problems with the plating building up at

the outside of the first thread.

Since most electro-plating baths have relatively low

‘throwing power’, the inside threads will receive very little

plating deposit. However, when tightened with their male

counterparts, the thread fit will provide sufficient protection.

When thread fit problems exist, it is better to reduce the

coating thickness on the nut.

Hot Dip Galvanizing

Hot Dip Galvanizing is found in the ASTM Standard

A123/A123M. During this process, parts are dragged

through a bath of molten zinc. Since the temperatures are

around 800º to 990˚F (423º to 530º C) for the molten zinc,

it would greatly affect the tempering temperature of an SAE

Grade 8 fastener (150 ksi) more than a Grade 5 (125 ksi).

Therefore, this process is limited to structural ASTM A325

(F3125), A307, dome head bolts and transmission tower

bolts, as well as a variety of pipe and iron flanges, washers

and nuts.

The A325 structural fastener is allowed the hot dip

galvanizing per ASTM B695, Class 55. No other fasteners

with higher tensile strengths greater than 125 ksi may

have a HDG coating. When applied to nuts, the threads are

tapped after coating.

Coating thicknesses are very thick; from 10 to 30 times

that of an electroplated zinc fastener. Averaging over 0.005

inches (127 µm), its corrosion protection is extremely good

in outdoor use by virtue of its heavy thickness. See ASTM

F2329/F2329M.

It should be noted that since the coating is very thick,

nuts are tapped after coating, therefore, the nuts will

receive a protective wax coating or some other form of

lubricant to protect the bare threads.

Mechanical Zinc

Also called zinc metal flake, is another process that

produces a heavy coating but without high temperatures.

Because it is a mechanical process using a slurry of zinc

metal flakes being impinged onto the parts by glass or

metal beads.


NEFDA ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP GOLF OUTING

SOUTHINGTON COUNTRY CLUB - JUNE 5, 2025


108


BAY SUPPLY WHY COIL THREAD INSERTS ARE UNIQUE AMONG FASTENERS from page 38

There are two basic types of tanged coil inserts.

Tanged free-running coils allow the fastener threads to

adjust to the coil independently, resulting in a stronger

bond because the thread distributes the load across the

entire surface.

Tanged screw-lock coil thread inserts feature a

slightly different design, incorporating straightened

segments as part of the coil. When the threaded fastener

is inserted, those straightened segments flex outward

to put pressure on both the threaded fastener and the

parent materials.

Tangless Coil Inserts

Tangless coil thread inserts are gaining in popularity

because they are easy to install and require no tang or

metal to remove. Tangless coils have a notch on one

end that serves as a grip point, allowing them to be

installed and inspected quickly without excess metal that

could get into machinery. They can also be adjusted and

removed more easily after installation.

Tangless coil thread inserts are also available in

free-running and screw-lock configurations.

Threaded Inserts for Every Application

The Heli-Coil® from STANLEY Engineered

Fastening is one of the best-known wire-threaded

inserts and is available in both tanged and tangless

configurations. The Heli-Coil is available in a range of

sizes and materials, including specialty inserts for pipes,

spark plugs, and self-tapping inserts. STANLEY also

offers a range of power and manual installation tools.

KATO Fastening Systems offers a full complement

of tanged and tangless coil inserts and tools. There

are more than 5,550 KATO parts, tools, and products

designed for fast installation and reduced costs available

on the Bay Supply Marketplace.

KATO wire threaded inserts are available in various

materials for different applications. Inconel® X-750

inserts are made from a nickel-chromium alloy hardened

by the addition of titanium and aluminum for hightemperature

applications. Nitronic 60® inserts have

silicone and manganese to minimize friction when used

with stainless steel screws and bolts. Nimonic 90® is a

nickel-chromium-cobalt alloy designed for extreme heat

and pressure. KATO also makes phosphor bronze inserts

that resist corrosion in salt water and titanium coil

inserts that deliver a superior strength-to-weight ratio.

Recoil tangless helical inserts from Arconic are one

of Bay Supply’s most popular threaded inserts. They’re

available in free-running and screw-lock designs. Freerunning

inserts are fast and easy to install using power

or hand tools. They are also available in a strip-fed

configuration with a plastic ribbon that is fed through an

assembly nozzle for factory use.

Recoil inserts are available in a range of materials,

including stainless steel (grades 304 and 316), Inconel®

X-750, phosphor bronze, Nimonic 90®, and Nitronic

60®, so they can be used in various applications,

including shipbuilding, power, manufacturing, consumer

electronics, automotive, aerospace, and more.

Arconic also offers a range of lubricants and

coatings. Silver plating increases performance for

high-temperature applications, such as when used in

aerospace engines. Cadmium plating reduces corrosion

in salt water for marine applications. Tin plating is

specified for moderately corrosive applications, such as

for use in automobiles. There are also dry film lubricants

and color coatings for identification.

No matter the application, the Bay Supply

Marketplace has the coil thread inserts for the job.

BAY SUPPLY


110


JIM TRUESDELL PROPOSED “WAREHOUSE WORKER PROTECTION ACT” DRAWS BUSINESS OPPOSITION from page 40

Further, “Quota Task Forces” can be set up

comprised of Union representative and worker advocacy

organizations to assist in enforcement, thus bringing

those parties into actions which are normally the

province of the DOL.

Brian Wild, Chief Government Relations Officer

of NAW said the bill represents an unnecessary and

costly threat to the economy, particularly to wholesalerdistributors

and small businesses. He said the bill’s

quota requirements would work against productivity

across the supply chain, resulting in delays and price

increases to consumers. The planned “Fairness and

Transparency Office” with the DOL would entangle

businesses in red tape and, according to Wild, would

stifle their ability to expand and create jobs. He also

warned that by inviting labor organizations into the

enforcement process it would allow union leaders to

potentially coerce or harass worksite under the cover of

“worker safety.”

The United States Chamber of Commerce, in

joining the opposition to the bill, cites the apparent

reinstatement of an OSHA ergonomics standard which

was struck down in the early 2000’s because it would

have created ambiguous standards which could have

led to increased injury claims which would have been

difficult to substantiate and had the potential to hold

employers liable for injuries actually arising outside

of the workplace. The Chamber also fears that, under

the proposal, employers would lose their due process

rights in challenging OSHA citations. Employers could be

forced to address alleged hazards before they are given

a chance to challenge the citation, and that such claims

could well be based on unproven theories.

So… given the unanimity of business associations’

opposition to the Warehouse Worker Protection Act, what

are its prospects? The bill was introduced in late 2024

but has not been brought to a vote. Why is it getting

so much attention as a bi-partisan proposal? That is

probably because it is being sponsored by Missouri

Republican Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri. Hawley

may be appealing to the blue-collar populist base which

President Trump brought into his coalition in winning the

2024 election.

In introducing the bill Senator Hawley said

“Corporations too often prioritize profit over their

workers’ safety and well-being, treating them like cogs

in a machine. It has to stop. This legislation combats

the warehouse industry’s worst practices while ensuring

corporations do right by their employees in treating them

with the dignity they deserve.” His website highlights

his stands in support of various pieces of legislation in

partnership with organized labor.

What stand has President Trump taken on the WWPA?

He is mostly silent about this and does not appear to be

pushing it. Project 2025, the policy blueprint prepared by

the Heritage Foundation, often associated with Trump’s

plans (though the President has disassociated himself

from the specific Heritage document) does not directly

address the Warehouse Worker Protection Act.

At the state level New York brought their version

of the WWPA into being on June 1, 2025, which also

included their “Warehouse Worker Injury Reduction

Program” into play for all companies covered by their

WWPA version. This sets up ergonomic evaluations,

injury reduction training and on-site medical and first

aid practices. It shows how a general warehouse worker

protection law can morph into something far more

expansive.

Given the ambiguity of where this might be going, if

momentum starts to build for a national bill, our trade

associations and wholesaler-distributors in general will

want to keep an eye on the proposal and speak up to

their representatives and senators if it begins to move to

the floor of the Congress.

JIM TRUESDELL


SOUTHINGTON COUNTRY CLUB - JUNE 5, 2025

STAFDA WELCOMES PHOENIX CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW WITH TWO GREAT EVENTS from page 42

His historic 114-day, 3,260-mile Nile First Descent

Expedition, the first complete descent of the Nile from its

source high in the mountains of Ethiopia to its mouth at

the Mediterranean Sea, will be the focus of his General

Session presentation.

Scaturro is one of the most successful and

accomplished mountain and river expedition leaders in

the world exploring the far reaches of the planet for more

than 35 years. His exploits have taken him throughout

North and South America, Africa, and the former Soviet

Union. Pasquale’s river descents include the Bio Bio in

Chile, rivers throughout North America, and the Omo and

Zambezi in Africa.

Scaturro, a bush pilot in Namibia, currently manages a

wildlife conservation preserve there as well as continuing

his geophysical oil and gas exploration and development

projects in many of the most remote, dangerous, and

politically and technically challenging places in the world.

He has filmed rafting and

mountaineering projects

for ESPN, PBS, Discovery

Channel, and National

Geographic Channel. His

inspiring presentation

will be followed by a Q&A

session moderated by

STAFDA President Dale

Hahs

All Convention & Trade Show events and activities are

included in the registration fee. Your badge is your ticket to

everything. Find more Phoenix Convention & Trade Show details

on stafda.org under the Conventions tab (click on Phoenix

Details button). Please click on the Join button for membership

applications. For more information, please contact Catherine

Usher, Member Services Director, at 800-352-2981 or e-mail

cusher@stafda.org.

SPECIALTY TOOLS & FASTENERS DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION

On October 20-24, 2025, Matrix Engineering

Consultants and NNi Training and Consulting

Inc. will be conducting their REVISED 4 DAY

Fundamentals of Threaded Fastener and Joint

Design training.

This one-of-a-kind Fastener Training Course will

provide participants with an in-depth explanation

of fastener terminology, technology, and threaded

fastener joint design calculations and strategies.

A fourth day has been added and much of content

revised to blend practical case studies and handson

exercises with classroom training. Participants

may choose to attend in-person or via a live

on-line stream.

The course will be conducted from the training

facilities of Matrix Engineering Consultants,

12986 Valley View Road, Eden Prairie, Minnesota

55344. The course will be taught be Laurence

Claus, President of NNi Training and Consulting

Inc. and Jon Ness P.E., Principle Engineer of

Matrix Engineering Consultants.

Mr. Claus has over 36 years of fastener industry

experience, serves as the Director of Training and

Education for the Industrial Fasteners Institute, is

Chairman of the SAE Fastener Committee, recent

Vice Chairman of the ASTM Fastener Committee

F16, and Subcommittee Chairman for both ASTM

F16 and ASME B18.

Mr. Ness is a licensed professional engineer with

over 32 years of engineering and design experience

related to the development of on and off-road

vehicles. He has technical expertise in the design

and validation of bolted joints and has led multiple

root cause investigations of bolted joint failures.

Participants can earn up to 28 Professional

Development Hours with this course.

NNI Training and Consulting is a dynamic,

entrepreneurial ‘knowledge provider’ offering

training and consulting services to small- and midsized

companies.

Matrix Engineering Consultants provides clients

with consistent, quality engineering and consulting

services, aligned to the standards of their clients

and of the industry.

For more information about the course, go to:

www.matrixengrg.com/training/fundamentals-ofthreaded-fasteners-and-joint-design/


114


SPIROL FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN SELECTING A RAW MATERIAL FOR DISC SPRINGS from page 48

For Example:

¤ In an aerospace application where extreme

temperatures come into play, does an Inconel Disc

Spring make sense? It might, however alternatively,

you may consider using 17-7 stainless steel Disc

Springs in a different configuration to achieve the

desired performance in the assembly. Spring steel may

not withstand corrosive environments. In this case,

especially in dynamic applications, 17-7 stainless steel

may be the best option

¤ In braking systems, the need for longevity is

paramount. Cleanliness is critical so that debris does not

get into the brake line. Stainless steel, at first glance,

appears to be the obvious choice. But what if in the

application, the Disc Springs are submerged in hydraulic

fluid? Uncoated carbon and alloy steel Disc Springs will

have superior performance at a lower cost and the Disc

Springs immersed in hydraulic fluid will be protected from

corrosion.

Fatigue Life

The material choice of a Disc Spring affects the

estimated fatigue life in an application. The biggest factor

in the fatigue life of Disc Springs is how close the stress

that is being placed on the Disc Spring is to reaching

the tensile strength or yield strength of the raw material.

The secondary factor is the difference between maximum

and minimum stresses during cycling. Larger differences

result in shorter fatigue life. Another important factor

to consider is how the Disc Spring is being used in the

application. Is the Disc Spring in a static, dynamic, or

impact application? In a dynamic application, 300 series

stainless steel will work harden and potentially have a

shorter fatigue life compared to 17-7 stainless steel and

carbon/alloy steel. The fatigue life of the Disc Spring(s)

in the specific application should be calculated prior to

making a final decision.

Cost

It is obvious that the more exotic the raw material,

the higher the cost will be for the Disc Spring. However, is

cost the main driving factor? Will a more exotic material

that lasts longer without the need for replacement be

more cost-effective overall? Or, would a Disc Spring

made from a commercially available standard material

that would require replacement more frequently, still

result in a lower overall cost based on the desired life of

the assembly? Cost is not as simple as it may seem.

Conclusion

There are many factors to consider when determining

the most appropriate Disc Spring raw material for a

specific application. It is recommended that you work with

Application Engineers who specialize in designing and

manufacturing Disc Springs and Disc Spring Stacks to

ensure the proper raw material is selected to achieve your

desired technical and commercial requirements.

SPIROL INTERNATIONAL CORP.

116


VOGELSANG SMARTER SLOTTED PIN BUYING OPTIONS FOR DISTRIBUTORS from page 52

Performance You Can Sell With Confidence

Slotted pins offer reliable performance and cost

savings. They’re easy to install without adhesives or

secondary fasteners, cutting time, labor, and complexity

on the assembly line. They also work with manual,

pneumatic, or high-speed automated systems—no

special tools required.

Their slotted design and hardened spring steel

construction absorb shock and vibration, reduce wear,

and hold securely under stress. And with a lower cost per

piece than coiled or solid pins, they deliver better value

without compromising performance.

From raw material to final inspection, each pin is

traceable by lot number back to the source and pour,

giving you confidence that you’re receiving a product you

can trust.

At Vogelsang, quality isn’t just a goal. It’s built into

every step of our process.

Need quality pins fast? Request a quote online or

give us a call. We’ll help you find the right product with

the right delivery, every time.

Vogelsang Fastener Solutions, Inc. is a Germanowned

private US & European based manufacturer of

tubular engineered fasteners utilizing a variety of raw

materials. They pride themselves in being a solution

provider for engineered applications while remaining to be

the only Rollpin, Coil Pin & Tension Bushing producer with

a Stock Program for quick shipping of standard products.

Whether your requirement is metric or fractional, they can

design the lowest cost solution.

VOGELSANG FASTENER SOLUTIONS


fastenerlinks

THE DEFINITIVE WEB DIRECTORY FOR THE INDUSTRY

BRINGING YOU THE FASTENER INDUSTRY IN A CLICK!

www.linkmagazine.com

fastenerlinks



fastenerlinks



fastenerlinks



fastenerlinks




233 Rock Road #205, Glen Rock, NJ 07452 TEL 201-254-7784 FAX 201-612-0638 EMAIL mfdaboard@gmail.com WEB www.mfda.us

MFDA OPENS REGISTRATION FOR GOLF WEEKEND by Rob Rundle

The MFDA is thrilled to announce that registration is

now open for the 2025 MFDA golf weekend, October 4th

and 5th at the Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, NJ.

The weekend will start off on Saturday evening October

4th from 4:30pm-6:30pm with the MFDA Cocktail party,

held in the Garden Room of the Grand Cascades Lodge.

This event, which is sponsored by the generosity of MFDA

members and Non-Members alike, is free to all attendees

and is a chance to connect with other members of the

fastener community in a relaxed indoor/outdoor setting

overlooking the rolling hills of Northwestern New Jersey.

Then on Sunday October 5th the real fun begins with

the 27th MFDA Golf outing. Join us in playing the Wild

Turkey Golf Course. One of the best public golf courses

ASSOCIATION ARTICLE

in NJ, Wild Turkey was named among the state’s “Top

New Public Courses” by NJGCOA. The topography is best

described as basin and ridge, providing golfers with the

type of variety rarely found on a single course. Roger

Rulewich’s design includes wide fairways and moderately

contoured greens that make the course playable for high

handicappers while at the same time many of the par-

4s feature limited aprons that require both strategy and

precision on the approach.

Registration includes breakfast (hot and cold options),

golf, and the awards luncheon in the afternoon.

Multiple sponsorship opportunities are available for both

the cocktail party and golf outing, please visit www.mfda.us

for registration forms and more information.


124


CANDOR INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY YOUR FULL-LINE INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES DISTRIBUTOR from page 60

Full-Line Industrial Supplies

⬡ Fasteners - Candor Industrial Supply prides

itself in providing the highest quality fasteners that are

available. The vast majority of their bread-and-butter type

fasteners, like bolts, washers, and nuts, are made right

here in the USA. They carry standard and non-standard

threaded fasteners like anchors, hex cap screws, and

sheet metal screws, as well as non-threaded fasteners

like rivets, pins, and more. They offer fasteners in a

variety of materials, grades, and finishes. If you are

having trouble finding the right fastener, contact their

friendly staff, and they will be happy to help. If they do

not have the product you are looking for, they will do their

best to source it.

⬡ Safety & PPE (Personal Protective

Equipment) - In our competitive and ever-changing

business world, your employees are your most important

asset, and they are what sets you apart from your

competitors. Candor Industrial Supply can help you

keep them safe and producing with a wide range of

Safety & PPE products. From fall protection, head

protection, and eye protection, to traffic control, spill

control, ergonomics, and more, they are dedicated to

keeping you safe in whatever conditions your day’s work

presents.

⬡ Tools - The quality of a tool can make all the

difference in getting a job done effectively and efficiently,

which is why Candor Industrial Supply offers the top

brands in the industry. With cutting tool brands like

Norseman, Greenfield Industries, and Champion Cutting

Tools; Hand Tool brands like GearWrench, Crescent, and

Wright Tool; and power tools and accessories brands

like Makita USA, Milwaukee, and Hougen. They provide

the tools you need, backed by reputations of quality,

durability, power, and ease of use. They also offer heavyduty

jobsite equipment from name brands like Multiquip,

Yardmax, and Mi-T-M, and metalworking machinery from

KMT Saw, Scotchman, and more.

⬡ Abrasives - Abrasives can take on a few different

uses depending on the material you are working on,

and how aggressive you need your abrasive to be.

From grinding wheels, cutting wheels, and deburring

abrasives, to non-woven abrasives, buffing and polishing

wheels, you will find the shape, grain, and abrasive grit

you need for any material you are working on.

⬡ Welding - Candor Industrial Supply’s range of

welding tools includes welding rods and wire, welding

consumables, from soap stones down to wire brushes.

They provide equipment and safety gear that keeps the

operator and equipment safe.



BREWERS vs CUBS GAME - JULY 30, 2025

126


GROWERMETAL ENHANCING CONICAL WASHER DESIGN WITH GROWER ECONICAL ® from page 62

In addition to its European debut, Grower Econical®

— together with the complete range of Growermetal

products — was also presented at the International

Fastener Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada (USA), one of the

leading business-to-business trade events for all types

of fasteners, machinery, tools, and other industrial

products. The company’s stand attracted considerable

interest from industry professionals. The innovative

nature and technical strength of the product line were a

big hit with the international audience.

Grower Econical® joins a growing innovative

product line, confirming Growermetal’s role as a leader

in fastening innovation.

Founded in 1950, Growermetal is a leader in the

production of security washers, blanked parts according

to customer’s specification and coiled spring washers

for railway.

Since its establishment, Growermetal maintained

its independence and has been run by the Cattaneo

family, and it is now run by the second generation of

entrepreneurs.

GROWERMETAL

DÖRKEN PFAS-FREE PRODUCT RANGE FOR ALL SITUATIONS from page 64

DÖRKEN® BASE 105 is a PFAS-Free zinc flake

basecoat that protects the base metal even with a typical

dry film thickness of 6 - 12 µm. It is the only product in this

category with a defined friction coefficient window of μtot

= 0.12 - 0.18. It is suitable for use on steel, high-strength

steels and passivated zinc and zinc alloy coatings.

DÖRKEN® BASE 120 is also a PFAS-Free zinc flake

basecoat for reliable corrosion protection. The silver

surface protects the base metal even at a typical dry film

thickness of 6 - 10 μm. It is suitable for use on steel,

high-strength steels and passivated zinc and zinc alloy

coatings.

DÖRKEN® SEAL 711 BLACK and SILVER are PFAS-Free

high-performance topcoats with an integrated lubricant for

optimum surface protection and improved performance.

They ensure a stable and controlled coefficient of friction

in the range of μtot = 0.09 - 0.14. The specially developed

formula increases the corrosion resistance of zinc flake

coatings, stainless steel, die-cast zinc and passivated zinc

and zinc alloy coatings. The surface has either a matte

black or glossy silver appearance.

DÖRKEN® TOP 500 BLACK is also a PFAS-Free

high-performance topcoat with an integrated lubricant for

optimum surface protection and improved performance. It

ensures a stable and controlled coefficient of friction in

the range of μtot= 0.08 - 0.14. The specially developed

formula increases the corrosion resistance of zinc, zinc

flake coatings, stainless steel, die-cast zinc and passivated

zinc and zinc alloy coatings. The black appearance gives

the surface a high-quality finish.

Conclusion

With the new PFAS-Free products from DÖRKEN, a

more sustainable future can begin. Qualified and validated

under production conditions, these PFAS-Free products

keep pace with PFAS-containing products in terms of

quality and can continue to protect components of all

kinds against corrosion.

DÖRKEN COATINGS


Suncor Stainless is

thrilled to welcome David

Doherty as the new Assoicate

Product Manager. In this

pivotal role,

David will support product

strategy, development, and

execution, collaborating

closely with cross-functional

teams to enhance customer

experience, drive product

improvements, and support

the company’s expanding

portfolio.

David Doherty joins

Suncor Stainless with

previous experience in

Project Management, Cable

Manufacturing & Team

Leadership. With a background

in Business Management,

Product testing & assembly,

& Cross-team Dynamics he

is well-positioned to make an

immediate impact.

We are excited to welcome

David to the Suncor family;

with his expertise and track

record he will be a great fit for

this role.

“I’m thrilled to be joining

the team at Suncor Stainless.

Suncor’s reputation for quality

and innovation is what drew

me here, and I’m excited to

contribute to the continued growth of

products that serve our customers’

needs.” David commented

Suncor® Stainless, Inc. is a leading

manufacturer of stainless steel

hardware in the industrial, marine,

government, architectural, OEM and

commercial industries. Suncor’s

modern facilities manufacture an

ever-expanding product line that has

become one of the world’s most

complete and highest quality sources

for stainless steel chain, hardware,

and custom parts. As an ISO 9001

certified company, you can trust that

all Suncor® products and services

will consistently meet customer and

regulatory requirements.

For more information contact

Suncor Stainless at 70 Armstrong

Road, Plymouth, MA 02360. Tel:

1-800-218-7702, Email: info@

suncorstainless.com or visit them

online at www.suncorstainless.com.

128


MWFA EVENT RECAPS from page 66

MWFA Pickleball Networking Event Recap

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our firstever

MWFA Pickleball Networking Event at Pickle Haus

in Algonquin! The evening was packed with friendly

competition, great conversations, and plenty of laughs

both on and off the court.

A huge thank you to our generous sponsors—Metric

& Multistandard, Abbott Interfast, Sems & Specials,

American Commercial Bank & Trust, SWD, and AFI. Your

support helped make this event a smashing success!

Events like these highlight the strong connections

and community spirit within the fastener industry. We’re

excited to keep the momentum going with more great

networking opportunities ahead.

MWFA Welcomes New Members

¤ Advanced Cable Ties

¤ Bossard Group

¤ E-Z LOK

¤ NBS Corporation

¤ Spartan Fastener

¤ Wrentham Tool Group


130



FIGURE 5: EXAMPLE OF PART NUMBER “LEGEND” INDICATING THE POSITION OF EACH CODE LETTER AND DASH NUMBER

Although not all inclusive, some of the more commonly

specified materials or features that receive letter codes

are:

Materials:

¤ Alloy Steel

¤ CRES materials (Notably, A286 and Alloy 718)

¤ Aluminum

¤ Titanium

Finishes:

¤ Cadmium Plating

¤ Aluminum Plating

¤ Nickel Plating

¤ Passivation

Drive Recesses:

¤ Cruciform

¤ Offset Cruciform

¤ Ribbed Cruciform or Ribbed Offset Cruciform

FIGURE 6: EXAMPLE PART HEAD MARKINGS

Locking Elements:

¤ Patch

¤ Pellet

¤ Strip

Examples

Figure 6 is a picture of a sample part. Between

the markings and presence of features on the part, it

is possible to identify the exact part in question. The

information gleaned from the markings:

¤ At 12:00: “1580” = Basic Number - NAS 1580

¤ At 3:00: “V4”= Material Code V (Titanium) and

Dash Number 4 - ¼-28

¤ At 6:00: “-7” = Second Dash Number “7” =

Grip

Length 0.438” and Length 0.841”.

¤ At 9:00: Manufacturer’s ID

¤ Recess is an Offset Cruciform

From this information, it is possible to access

the standard and obtain the part description from the

Basic Part Number “1580”. It is, “Bolt, Shear, 100°

Flush Head Offset Cruciform, Offset Cruciform-Ribbed

and dovetail slot, 95 KSI FSU”. Figure 7 shows Table

1, which lets us know that the Dash Number of “4” is

equal to .2500-28 (1/4”-28). The “V” informs the user

that the material is Titanium 6Al-4V (See Figure 8) and

since there is no “G” following the Grip Dash Number

(“7”), it is a plain finish. The second dash number “7”

tells us that the Grip is 0.438” and the total length is

0.841” (See Figure 9).



132



FIGURE 4 MICROHARDNESS INSTRUMENT AND

PREPARED TEST SAMPLE

Other sources of error in measurements are related

to the act of taking the measurement. This is human

error. People have different aptitudes for using tools.

The results they get are directly connected to their skill,

attention and persistence in the act of measurement. ISO

17025 accredited laboratories are required to perform

comparative evaluations between test technicians called

an Internal-Round-Robin. This is done by having multiple

technicians measure the same thing with the same

tool and compare the results statistically for significant

correlation. There are also versions of this procedure

that compare different tools to evaluate the consistency

FIGURE 5 VICKERS MICROHARDNESS INDENTATION

MAGNIFIED 400 X

of the tools and how they compare in making the same

measurement.

ISO 17025 laboratories are also required to participate

in general proficiency evaluations which compare specific

test data with many other laboratories to ensure that the

results they are getting for a particular test statistically

correlate with data sampled over a wide range of

instruments and technicians that are following the same

test method. Although there is error inherent in the act of

taking measurements, accredited laboratories have strict

comparative study requirements to ensure that this error

is small and acceptable.

A third source of error is in the variations inherent in

the material itself. Material is not completely uniform.

For example, the hardness of a material may vary by

location. Some regions may be harder than others

due to inhomogeneity or residual stress stored in the

material. Hardness can also vary due to the sampled

size. Microhardness, which is determined by a very small

indentation, can exhibit variation from spot to spot on

some materials because the grain structure of the material

is large in comparison to the sampled area. Some grains

are harder than others and the measurements will reflect

this variation.

FIGURE 6 PROFICIENCY TEST RESULTS SHOWING THE

LABORATORY'S DEVIATION FROM THE GROUP MEAN

What amount of error is acceptable? That’s a

good question. The acceptable amount of error in any

measurement should be relative to the correlation of

the result and range of uncertainty to the acceptable

range limits for the result. Figure 1 illustrates this idea

well. If the uncertainty range in the result staddles the

acceptance limit, and the possibility of being on the other

side of the limit is critical to the application, one should

evaluate that potential carefully and take appropriate

steps to mitigate the possibility of nonconformance.



134



After a manufacturer applies for recordal of the

insignia, the USPTO will issue a Certificate of Recordal,

which remains active for five years. The USPTO uses this

information to maintain the Fastener Insignia Register,

which is open to public inspection. The purpose of this

collection is to ensure that certain fasteners can be

traced to their manufacturers in accordance with the

Fastener Quality Act.

Manufacturers that have their quality system

registered to ISO 9000, or another

recognized quality system are NOT

required to register their insignia

with the PTO.

Today, most fastener

manufacturers around the world are

registered to ISO 9000.

Drawing Calls Out

MatPoint, which is a trademarked feature. That being

the case one must assume that this feature is also

patented. The date the drawing was sent to the company

was at the end of October 2016, at that time the patent

was still valid for approximately another 2 years. Meaning

the screw must be still made by a licensed manufacturer

in the USA, if sold in the USA.

After that the screw can be made by other

manufacturers but can only be sold under the trademark

of MatPoint, if manufactured by a licensed manufacturer.

It can be sold as a generic product (different name) by

other sellers.

Data, Text Of Technical Information

Measurement etc.

Data are facts: Copyright law doesn’t protect facts

themselves, only the original way those facts are

expressed.

The data within a table itself is generally not protected

by copyright, but the specific arrangement, selection, and

presentation of that data can be. Here’s a breakdown:

¤ Data is not copyrightable.

¤ Facts and raw data are discovered, not created, and

therefore are not eligible for copyright protection.

¤ If the selection and arrangement of data are

sufficiently creative or original, they can be protected by

copyright as a compilation.

¤ The way data is presented, including the visual design

of a table, chart, or graph, can also be copyrightable.

¤ However, simply displaying data in a basic table or

chart is unlikely to be considered sufficiently creative for

copyright protection.

Examples of non-copyrightable data include

demographic counts, weather measurements, phone

numbers, and information.

Copyright Infringement Example

I worked for a company who had a product catalog

with an extensive technical section. One company copied

extensive parts of the section and included them in their

catalog.




After being sued for copyright infringement, they

claimed that the data was derived for ISO standards,

however the information was represented the same

way as shown in the technical section, typos, additional

text illustrations table arrangement etc. Therefore, as

it became evident that they copied many pages, the

company had to pay monetary compensation.

Example Of Trademark Violation

At the same company we sold nylon insert locknuts,

in most cases the color was blue. a company quietly

trademarked the blue collar insert (any shade of blue).

It took our company by surprise we were forced to find

sources with insert with a different color.

Initially, we had to agree to pay a royalty fee, until we

were able to find sources that produced locknuts with

uncolored inserts.

The hired law

firm kept a watch

on the company;

they then tried to

trademark nylon

insert lock nuts with gray inserts. Our law firm put an

injunction on this. The natural color of nylon is typical

on opaque white, assembled to a steel nut, they

appear gray. Ultimately, we were apple to stop that

trademark.

In Conclusion

Whether it is a copyright, trademark or patent issue

it is always a good idea to work with an intellectual

property lawyer. To file a patent or address a patent

infringement it should be addressed in a team effort,

technical people and one or two lawyers.

BRUNO MARBACHER

136



The Business Edge TM flexibility to accommodate remote

workstations without additional licensing costs has proven

particularly valuable, especially during challenging periods

that require rapid operational adjustments.

Industry professionals consistently praise Computer

Insights, Inc.’s deep technical knowledge and commitment

to customer service, viewing the company as an invaluable

strategic partner rather than a mere software vendor. This

partnership approach distinguishes Computer Insights

from competitors who simply sell software without

excellent support.

Technology-Driven Operational Excellence


empowers fastener distributors

to fully leverage current technology capabilities in ways

that other ERP systems cannot match. Computer Insights’

platform enables error-free operations through automated

processes and provides comprehensive usage reporting

that supports strategic decision-making. The Business

Edge TM

wireless updates and downloads, seamless order

transmission, and advanced features like real-time order

visibility have become the gold standard in the industry.

The integration of multiple business functions into


unified platform has dramatically

streamlined daily operations and reduced the complexity

of managing multiple systems. This comprehensive

integration showcases Computer Insights’ understanding

of distributor workflows.

Strategic Inventory Optimization

Computer Insights, Inc.’s configurable VMI programs

through The Business Edge TM

offer fastener distributors

significant time savings while increasing inventory turnover

rates. The Business Edge TM

helps you calculate optimal

stocking levels based on comprehensive historical data

analysis, ensuring timely product availability even during

unexpected production spikes or demand fluctuations.

The Business Edge’s accurate inventory management

capabilities enable distributors to meet customer

demands consistently while maintaining their reputation

as reliable supply chain partners. This predictive approach

to inventory management reduces carrying costs while

improving service levels—results that demonstrate why

Computer Insights remains the preferred choice for

serious fastener distributors.

Staying Competitive Through Innovation

Industry leaders emphasize the critical importance of

embracing technological advancements to meet evolving

customer expectations. The Business Edge TM

enables

distributors to eliminate data entry errors, streamline

complex operations, and maintain competitive advantages

in an increasingly demanding marketplace. Computer

Insights, Inc.’s continuous innovation guarantees that The

Business Edge TM

users always have access to the latest

industry-specific functionality.

The fastener distribution industry continues to evolve

rapidly, and organizations that choose The Business

Edge TM position themselves for sustained growth and improved

profitability. Computer Insights’ technological investments

not only improve current operations but also provide the

foundation for future innovations and market expansion

opportunities.

Conclusion

The integration of The Business Edge TM VMI and Signature

Capture technologies represents a fundamental shift in how

fastener distributors approach inventory management and

customer service. Organizations that choose Computer

Insights, Inc.’s The Business Edge TM report measurable

improvements in efficiency, accuracy, and customer

satisfaction that exceed results from other ERP providers.

As the industry continues to evolve, The Business Edge TM will

become increasingly essential for maintaining competitive

positioning and achieving long-term success.


NFDA 2025 ANNUAL MEETING & ESPS

CHARLOTTE, NC - JUNE 11-13, 2025

138



Aunt Aggie is a ‘Scrap Booker” who creates some

really artistic paper art. She is also extraordinarily

meticulous when it comes to applying labels perfectly

straight and in the right position. Aggie will probably arrive

a day later than Bob, after she gets her grandchildren

dressed, fed and out of the house. She will end her

workday according to the grandkids camp/play/school

schedule. Don’t let the ‘grandmother’ title fool you Aggie

teaches yoga, stretching and chair exercises. She will

probably outperform anyone you team with her. She is

also known for the delicious cookies and brownies that

she brings with her.

Aggie’s role is not to just add the new labels, she

will also be checking for misplaced materials under

your existing system. Think of her as your new Quality

Control officer who will bring a new level of control to

your storage…and some surprising additional talents.

Don’t underestimate her talents. She really is a graduate

Industrial Engineer from Texas A & M, making her an

‘Aggie” in multiple ways.

“Wow,” I marveled, “Do you always move this fast

and how can we work together to expedite the changes?

However, there is still $100,000 unaccounted for…

and how do you get any return on this investment if we

cannot reach an agreement?”

Stretching The Budget

With a smile, Mike replied, “I’m pretty sure we can

work out the business entity details. Think of the upfront

money as a form of ‘dowry’ that you can keep if we do

not come to terms. I, for one, am confident that we will

indeed work together synergistically and when we do the

initial $500,000 will come back to compensate both of

us.

The other $100,000 will cover new warehouse

numbering and a whole bunch of minor expenses we

will identify as we move along. For example, you can

immediately switch from reusing any old boxes for

shipping to our standardized shipping cartons. Printing

plates for corrugated containers are cheap and until we

figure out our business entity relationship the cartons

will carry your name and logo with small print noting

that you are a ‘Friend and Affiliate of 5-Star Fasteners.’

Undoubtedly, it will take some time to identify co-op

advertising to pay for the new cartons. A few hundred

dollars for the initial boxes will come from the $100k

contingency fund.

As for the Return on Investment for both of us, the

accountants will come up with something suitable that

the IRS will accept. If we can ramp up your sales to a

wider audience and cut costs along the way my guess is

that the ROI will be measured in months, not years.”

Yes, But What About The People?

At that moment I could barely comprehend the

extent of the changes and the sincerely of the cash

up front, but there was one immediate concern. Any

business operation is a whole lot more than facilities and

procedures, what about the people? When I raised this

question, Mike already had an answer.

Mike replied, “We will all be working together to

develop a team. Of course Bob, Jennifer and Aunt

Aggie will be around your building quite a bit over the

next month and some of your staff, chosen by you, will

be coming to 5-Star for training, orientation and team

building education. By the time they come back to your

operation these individuals should be comfortable with

most of the procedural and software changes. It will have

to be a ‘Train the Trainer’ experience. If the individual

can assimilate and grow, we are all going to know about

it. That might require the involvement of others…from

both teams.

Along the way, you and I will review progress reports,

personalities and achievements to determine future

roles for the members of the combined teams. By the

way, an invitation will be extended to family members to

join with 5-Star families for team building events. This

coming Saturday is a car wash day at the 5-Star parking

lot. All of your staff, and their families, are invited to work

together, picnic together and get to know each other.



IN MEMORIAM

Herman Bruce Darling (1943-2025)

Herman Bruce Darling, age 83, of

Jacksonville, Florida, was welcomed into our

loving Savior’s arms on August 16, 2025, at

Taylor Care Center.

Bruce was born in Freeport, Texas,

on May 17, 1943, to Herman and Ruth

Darling. They moved to Smithville, Texas,

shortly after Bruce’s birth. Bruce graduated

with honors from Smithville High School in

1961 and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in

Business Administration - Accounting from

Texas A&M University in 1965. Bruce married Cynthia Anne

Parker on February 19, 1966, at Trinity Lutheran Church in

Dallas, Texas. Their marriage was blessed with four children.

In 1988, Bruce and Cynthia moved from Dallas to Tustin,

California, where they resided until their move to Minden,

Nevada, in Carson Valley, in the Fall of 2008. In 2018, Bruce

moved to Jacksonville, Florida, to live with Brad and Deborah

Darling.

Bruce received his Army commission as a Second

Lieutenant from Texas A&M University upon his graduation.

He served in Vietnam as an Infantry Platoon Leader and

then Company Commander in 1967. His service to the

United States of America was recognized by awarding Lt.

Herman Bruce Darling the Bronze Star Medal for Meritorious

Achievement in Ground Operations Against Hostile Forces in

the Republic of Vietnam in 1967.

Bruce and Cynthia attended their first Marriage Encounter

weekend in October 1985. Their experience led them into

becoming actively involved as Marriage Encounter Presenters

for 20 years. Bruce and Cynthia encountered 826 couples

before resigning from the ministry on December 31, 2006.

Their experience with Marriage Encounter served to set a

deeper foundation from which they continually strengthened

their own marriage and life together.

Bruce was raised Baptist but was confirmed into the

Lutheran Church prior to his marriage to Cynthia. He was

a faithful member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Dallas, TX;

Zion Lutheran Church, in Dallas, TX; Zion Lutheran Church

in Anaheim, CA; and finally Trinity Lutheran Church in

Gardnerville, NV. Bruce was a member of the church choirs

at each church. He was also a member of the Lutheran

Chorale at Concordia University - Irvine for 15 years.

OBITUARY

Bruce’s first job upon his release from

the Army was with BOSCO Fastening

Service Center in Dallas, Texas. He began

his career in the bolt, nut, and screw

industry and remained there for the next

47 years. In 1988, Bruce left BOSCO to

accept a position with Porteous Fastener

Company as Vice President of Materials

Management. His duties included finding

sources for fasteners worldwide. In the

pursuit of quality manufacturers, Bruce

made over 30 trips abroad, making 1300+ visits to more

than 425 factories. Bruce had the opportunity to speak at

more than 30 regional association meetings, including five

opportunities to address the attendants of the National

Industrial Fastener Shows - East and West, in Atlanta, GA,

Columbus, OH and Las Vegas, NV. In May 2005, Bruce was

honored to be inducted into the National Industrial Fastener

Show’s Hall of Fame.

Bruce is survived by his children RuthAnne Darling Wyble

and husband Steven Wyble of Woodstock, GA; Brad Darling

and wife Debbie Darling of Jacksonville, FL; Amy Darling of

Minden, NV. His grandchildren Stuart Rose and wife Kacie

Rose of League City, TX; Allan Rose and wife Kathy Rose of

Holly Springs, GA; and Olivia Jones Fairchild and husband

Steven Fairchild. His great-granddaughters, Olivia and Harley

Rose of League City, TX and Renee Rose of Holly Springs,

GA. His brother Larry Darling and wife Sherry Darling of

Gardnerville, NV, sister-in-law, Violet Darling of London,

Ontario, Canada and many cousins, nieces, nephews and

friends.

Bruce was preceded in death by his wife, Cynthia Parker

Darling. His brother, Joe Bennett Darling; second child,

Elaine Elizabeth Darling; parents Herman Fayette Darling

and Ruth Ivy Darling; sister, Sally Darling Smith and brother,

Richard Darling.

A celebration of Bruce’s life will be held at Pitman

Cemetery on January 17, 2026. He will be interred in the

family plot alongside Cynthia in Muldoon, TX.

The family has requested in lieu of flowers, if you feel so

led, memorials may be sent to either Trinity Lutheran Church

Music Program, 1480 Douglas Avenue, Gardnerville, NV

89410 or a charity of your choice.

HERMAN BRUCE DARLING

140


WOMEN IN THE FASTENER INDUSTRY

PO Box 763, Webster, NY 14580

EMAIL scholarships@fastenerwomen.com WEB www.fastenerwomen.com

WIFI ANNOUNCES SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS

Adrianne Reynolds, Bossard-Montreal Location, is the

winner of the Edith Camerson (IFE) Scholarship.

The International Fastener Expo will give Adrianne

the opportunity to network and build relationships within

the fastener industry.

Adrianne is a Buyer

with a background in

supply chain operations,

procurement and vendor

collaboration. She has

been in the fastener

industry for 3 years and

is eager to deepen my

understanding and expand my network.

This opportunity means the world to me. I’m

genuinely excited! Receiving this scholarship is more

than just a moment of recognition — it’s a door opening

to something bigger. I’m grateful for the chance to

participate, and I’m looking forward to showing up with

curiosity, intention, and appreciation. Thank you again

for believing in me and supporting my journey!

I’m truly honored to receive this scholarship and

want to express my heartfelt thanks. This opportunity

gives me the chance to grow, learn from industry

experts, and connect with others who are passionate

about what they do. I’m excited to take what I gain from

this experience and apply it meaningfully in my own

journey. Thank you for believing in me and supporting my

goals!

ASSOCIATION ARTICLE

Keli Stahl, Brynolf Manufacturing, is the winner of

the Ann Bisgyer Wolz FTI Scholarship.

The Fastener Training

Institute scholarship will

give Keli the opportunity

to gain in-depth industry

knowledge.

Keli has been in the

fastener industry for 6

years now. She is excited

to have the opportunity

to drastically further her

knowledge of fasteners

taught by industry experts. Keli is looking most forward

to brainstorming with others and getting the opportunity

to network!

I just wanted to say I am so honored to be chosen

as one of the winners for the Ann Bisgyer Wolz FTI

Scholarship! I am so excited to be able to participate in

Fastener Week and learn as much as I possibly can from

very knowledgeable industry experts with many years of

fastener experience while also getting to network with

others that are also eager to learn as much as possible

about everything this industry has to offer, This awesome

opportunity will help me gain the knowledge and skills I

need to be able to grow into a confident highly skilled

Quality Manager.

Thank you for giving woman in the fastener industry

this amazing opportunity, I really appreciate it!!



WIFI ANNOUNCES SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS from page 140

Jen Kominsky, Hanger Bolt & Stud Co, is our second

recipient for the Ann Bisgyer Wolz FTI Scholarship.

The Fastener Training

Institute scholarship will

give Jen the opportunity

to gain in-depth industry

knowledge.

Jen has been in the

fastener industry for 4

months. She is overjoyed

with discovering WIFI and is exactly what she needed. Jen

states “Being a woman and newcomer to this industry

is a little daunting but knowing there is support is very

reassuring.”

Thank you so much to WIFI for awarding me the

Ann Bisgyer Wolz FTI Scholarship! I am thrilled at the

opportunity to become a Certified Fastener Specialist.

This scholarship will allow me to invest in myself and my

career! I am beyond honored to be among such fierce

women in the Fastener industry.

Women in the Fastener Industry (WIFI), began on

the social media site LinkedIn, as a way to connect

women in the fastener business through the web, social

media, and trade shows. The group was started by Pam

Berry, Executive Vice President and co-owner of Advance

Components, and Mary Lou Aderman, president of The

Aderman Group, who worked together to create a space

for women to empower each other and advance in the

industry.

WIFI’s mission is to provide opportunities for women

in the fastener industry at all levels of experience, to unite

in order to educate, mentor and encourage one another,

for the express purpose of advancing women in the

fastener industry.

WOMEN IN THE FASTENER INDUSTRY

142



¤ Enlist Influencers to Help With Promotion:

Given that we’re essentially living in the Age of the

Influencer when it comes to YouTube and similar video

social networks, it should be a snap for you to hook-up

with one or more of these stars or min-stars to generate

pre-event buzz for your fastener distributorship’s webinar.

Besides influencers who already have their own

channels, don’t forget considering highly respected

thought leaders in your industry who can be filmed by your

video crew to help promote your event in a way that is

mutually beneficial.

Some influencers will even agree to be paid on what

they actually deliver for you, which can be measured in

the click-throughs, conversions and audience retention

rates they generate as measured by mutually acceptable

analytic tools.

Observes Airmeet’s Birje: “Statistics show that 69%

of consumers trust influencer recommendations. People

instantly believe what they say and do, because they view

influencers as credible sources of information.”

¤ Leverage a Warm-Up Period Before the

Official Start: Instead of leaving attendees to twiddle

their thumbs just before the webinar start, it’s much

smarter for your fastener distributorship to at least

run background music in the virtual meeting room. It

reassures early-shows to your presentation that life in that

virtual meeting room really does exist.

Some webinar pros especially tuned-into the value

of a pre-presentation warm-up period also like to have

someone on the team greet each new entrant by name

and foster easygoing chat among the attendees.

Final touch: You may want to practice your body

language and demeanor one last time before you appear

on camera to ensure you’re coming off as warm and

engaging.

¤ Set Ground-Rules for Interaction During the

Webinar: To avoid watching your fastener distributorship

webinar devolve into a free-for-all, it’s a good idea to clarify

upfront if questions are okay to ask during the presentation

-- or are limited to the Q&A session at its conclusion.

Some webinar pros also like to offer background text

chatting while their presentation is going on. But others

believe a never-ending, rolling chat going on in background

THE ONE-HOUR VIDEO OF YOUR WEBINAR CAN BE SLICED-AND-

DICED AND REPURPOSED AS SHORT POSTS ACROSS SOCIAL

MEDIA, INCLUDING YOUTUBE, LINKEDIN, INSTAGRAM AND TIKTOK

-- while they’re making critical points -- is a needless

distraction. You’ll of course want to decide what camp

you’re in. No matter when the questions and interaction

get activated, you’ll of course want to work to keep things

professional and respectful. As a failsafe, a fastener

distributorship can designate a specific employee to

intercept and neutralize event ‘bombers’ – or jokers

who show-up at virtual events with the sole purpose of

attempting to derail the proceedings.

¤ Encourage Instant Booking for a Post-Webinar

Follow-Up Meeting: You’ll get more conversions from

your webinar if you offer instant booking for a post-webinar

follow-up during -- and right after -- your event.

Some webinar pros ensure attendees facilitate this

by enabling attendees to click on a calendar booking link

during -- and directly after the presentation -- via services

like Calendly, HubSpot, Microsoft Bookings or Acuity

Scheduling.

Another pro tip: You can increase post-webinar

bookings for your fastener distributorship by offering a

no-pressure, call-to-action with wording like: “Feel free to

book a follow-up -- either virtually, by phone or in person

-- on how our company can help you implement the

strategies and insights offered in this webinar, free-ofcharge.”


PAC-WEST AFTER HOURS - VANCOUVER, BC

THE BARLEY MERCHANT - JUNE 26, 2026


Another pro tip: You can increase post-webinar

bookings for your fastener distributorship by offering

a no-pressure, call-to-action with wording like: “Feel

free to book a follow-up -- either virtually, by phone or in

person -- on how our company can help you implement

the strategies and insights offered in this webinar, freeof-charge.”

¤ Be Sure to Activate an Exit Poll at the Close

of Your Event: If you’re planning on using the webinar

format long-term to reach-out to customers and/or

generate sales leads, you’ll definitely want to find out

how things went with questions like:

~ What was the most valuable part of today’s

webinar?

~ Was the content relevant to your needs?

~ What do you think could be improved about the

presentation?

~ Are you interested in a follow-up consultation or

more resources from our company?

~ How likely are you to recommend this webinar to a

colleague?

¤ Repurpose Your Webinar Content for Use

Across Social Media: Given that you’re most likely

generating at least an hour of video -- along with

customer Q&A -- your webinar represents a goldmine for

content for your fastener distributorship that you can use

across social media.

With the right planning, it’ll be easy enough to post

the full webinar on YouTube and/or on your Web site for

replay and/or first time viewing.

Even better: The hour-long video generated by

the webinar can also be easily sliced-and-diced for

presentations on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube Shorts

and TikTok.

Plus, your video script can be repurposed as a white

paper and also sliced-and-diced as a series of blog

posts, podcasts, LinkedIn articles, infographics, email

marketing messages and similar.

JOE DYSART

144


NELSON VALDERRAMA TARIFF CHECKMATE: STRATEGIC MOVES FOR DISTRIBUTORS FACING THE GLOBAL TRADE BOARD from page 104

Scoring:

¤ 20-25: Grandmaster – Your tariff strategy

capabilities are exceptional.

¤ 15-19: Master – Strong strategic capabilities

with room for refinement.

¤ 10-14: Candidate Master – Fundamental

systems in place, but significant gaps remain.

¤ Below 10: Novice – Critical need to develop

tariff strategy capabilities.

Winning Combinations: Real-World Strategy

Case Study: The Sacrifice Gambit

Opening Position: A mid-sized C components

distributor with $35 million in annual revenue imported

65% of its product line from countries affected by recent

tariff increases. Initial calculations showed a potential

$1.2 million attack on their bottom line.

Middle Game Strategy: Rather than implementing

a single approach, this distributor:

[1] Created a tariff impact score for each product

based on margin, competitive position, and customer

price sensitivity.

[2] Applied direct pass-through to low-sensitivity

items (40% of the catalog).

[3] Implemented transparent surcharges for midsensitivity

products (35% of the catalog).

[4] Absorbed costs on highly competitive, strategic

items (25% of catalog)—a strategic material sacrifice to

maintain position.

Endgame Result: The mixed strategy preserved

82% of their expected margin while maintaining 97% of

their customer base. Most importantly, by demonstrating

strategic thinking rather than panicked counter moves,

they strengthened key customer relationships and

positioned themselves as trusted advisors during

uncertain times.

Grandmaster’s Insight: “The biggest mistake

distributors make with tariffs is treating them as a onedimensional

attack requiring a one-dimensional defense.

The most successful players see the multi-dimensional

nature of the position and deploy equally sophisticated

counter-moves.”

Upgrading Your Strategic Analysis

Implementing effective tariff strategies requires more

than decision-making. It demands analytical excellence

in these key areas:

[1] Dynamic Pricing Calculation: Advanced

systems that can implement complex, multi-tier pricing

strategies across thousands of SKUs

[2] Customer Communication Protocols:

Standardized approaches for explaining position changes

that maintain relationships

[3] Vendor Negotiation Playbooks: Strategies to

secure favorable terms and transparency from suppliers

[4] Position Analysis Capabilities: Tools to

identify optimal pricing approaches by product and

customer segment

Future Position Analysis: The era of tariff volatility

is unlikely to subside in the near term. Distributors who

invest in developing these capabilities now will gain

sustainable competitive advantages as board positions

continue to develop.

Planning Your Next Move

As you consider your company’s approach to tariff

strategy, ask yourself:

[1] Which of the three strategic approaches best

aligns with your company’s capabilities and customer

relationships?

[2] What technology investments would most

improve your tariff analysis capabilities?

[3] Have you prepared your team to implement and

communicate your chosen strategy effectively?

Checkmate: Distributors can overcome complex

global trade challenges and gain a competitive edge

through strategic thinking, a skilled workforce, and

proactive planning. The global trade game will continue

to be intricate, but these strategic moves will allow

distributors to survive and thrive in the future.

NELSON VALDERRAMA


SOUTHWESTERN FASTENER ASSOCIATION

PO Box 173994, Arlington, TX 76003 TEL 817-269-0436 EMAIL info@southwesternfastener.org WEB www.southwestfastener.org

SFA’s UPCOMING EVENTS by Becky Buddenbohn

The Southwestern Fastener Association is please to

announce several events in the upcoming months, here

are some of the details - mark your calendars, we hope

to see you there!

Distributor Appreciation Dinner

Haywire Memorial City, Houston - Thursday,

October 16, 2025, 6:00pm - Each year, we look

forward to the opportunity to appreciate the importance

of the Distributors in our Association! We hope you’ll join

us at Haywire in Houston to raise a glass and enjoy this

annual event. Registration to open soon, please mark

your calendars now!

Sporting Clay Shoot

American Shooting Center, Houston - Friday,

October 17, 2025, 10:00am - Always a popular event,

our Sporting Clay Shoot will be held on Friday morning,

ASSOCIATION ARTICLE

October 17 and we’ll enjoy lunch after. You’ll want to

start your training now...this is a fun, competitive day!

Registration will open soon, please plan to attend!

Annual Canned Food Drive

Thursday, November 13,2025 6:00pm - Chicken

N Pickle, Grand Prairie - SFA will be collecting canned

goods to donate to our neighbors in need. This year,

we’ll be also dinking it up on the Pickleball court! Come

on out and see what all the fuss is about...Pickleball is

the fasting growing sport in our country! Registration will

open in the fall, but please save the date for this fun

evening of networking and sport!

Annual Toy Drive

Thursday, December 11, 2025, 6:00pm - Little

Woodrow’s EADO, Houston - Stay tuned as we plan a fun

evening of Toy Giving!

SOUTHWESTERN FASTENER ASSOCIATION

146


GUY AVELLON WHAT FASTENER DISTRIBUTORS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FASTENER COATINGS from page 106

There is nothing in the process to promote hydrogen

embrittlement. Thicknesses can be controlled and varies

from 0.0003” (7.6 µm) to 0.005” (127 µm). The resultant

finish will be a dull matte or hammer tone metallic zinc.

This process is used extensively for hardened flat washers

to prevent hydrogen assisted cracking. However, it has not

been qualified for ASTM A490/490M (F3125/F3125M)

structural bolts.

The zinc flake process, along with other zinc flake

organic and inorganic processes are covered under the

combined ASTM Specification F3393. This Specification is

an approved coating for 150 ksi and 1040 MPa Twist-off

style bolt assemblies.

Organic/Inorganic Coatings

These coatings fall under the category of ‘dip and

spin’ coatings where the fastener products are dipped into

the appropriate liquid media, then the excess is spun off.

First developed in the mid-1980’s, there were problems

with controlling the thickness and thread engagement with

a matching coated nut. Now, thicknesses of different base

and top coats are being applied in layers with different

types of metal and organic coatings.

The coatings are impregnated with metallic particles,

such as zinc and aluminum and are under the ASTM

Specifications F1136/F1136M and F2833 . There are

several coating options of applying a sealer to the coating

and a top coat to enhance the corrosion resistance.

Some companies offer different types of top coats for

performance and appearance. Accelerated salt spray

tests per B117 indicate results from a low of 500 hours

up to 1,000 hours.

There are many different top coatings available that

in combinations will increase the corrosion resistance

substantially. However, each top coat will increase the

overall thickness of the bolt or nut and may cause an

interference fit between the two.

Corrosion resistance times for the B117 testing are

only a relative comparison of salt spray testing under

controlled conditions. Actual field results may vary with

assembly, other types of exposure from acid rain, UV etc.

They will also vary from one applicator to another. These

hour ratings are not absolute, only a guide.

Electroless Nickel

As the name implies, there is no electrical current

used for depositing nickel onto a substrate. This is

performed by a chemical reduction of metal cations

from a plating solution containing nickel-hypophosphite

salts to create a nickel-phosphorus alloy. This is done by

means of an autocatalytic reaction controlled by time and

bath temperature.

An autocatalytic reaction means that the nickel metal

will continue to plate upon itself until it is intentionally

stopped. A nail dipped in a solution of copper sulfate will

be coated with copper until there is no more surface iron

of the nail exposed. The chemical reaction stops and will

not deposit any copper on itself.

Electroless nickel (EN) deposition is covered under

ASTM Standard B733. The main advantages of this

process is that metal deposition occurs wherever the

solution contacts the substrate. This means that irregular

geometric shaped parts will receive the same thickness,

through holes and around threads. This makes it ideal

for small adjusting screws and for Class 3 thread

tolerances.

The nickel deposit is less porous than electronickel,

hence the corrosion resistance is better. The

surface is very smooth which produces less friction. A

low temperature heat treatment will increase the surface

hardness for abrasion resistance.

EN has been used to prevent galling on the threads of

stainless steel hydraulic fittings. The only drawback to the

EN process is the chemical evolution of hydrogen which

can cause embrittlement in high hardness fasteners.

Recommendations

There are many other types of alloyed electrodeposited

coatings available, such as zinc-nickel, zinc and tin,

even with electroless nickel. They all have their unique

functions, and some, a unique cost. Be sure of the

process you want and what type of environment it must

endure before you generically ask for a plated or

coated product. Most processes have ASTM Standard

designations; please check first. It is easier to order with

a Standard number so there is no confusion as to what

is required.

GUY AVELLON




148


CANDOR INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY YOUR FULL-LINE INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES DISTRIBUTOR from page 124

⬡ Chemicals & Paints - Keep your tools, space, and

equipment in top shape and looking great when you choose

from a variety of cleaning chemicals, lubricants, paints,

and painting supplies. These products are meant to make

your job easier and more efficient by keeping your space

clean and using the proper chemicals to bond or release

materials. For your painting projects, select from highquality

spray & marking paints, masking tapes, brushes,

rollers, and more.

⬡ Hose & Fittings - Whether you are looking for

gaskets, seals, HVAC/R, hydraulic fittings, plumbing, or

pneumatics, Candor Industrial Supply has what you need.

⬡ Material Handling - Quality material handling

equipment is meant to ease heavy-duty jobs and reduce

injuries. Carts and hand trucks will aid in pushing, lifting,

and placing bulky items. Use and store items more

efficiently with cabinets, parts and storage bins, shelves,

racks, and more.

⬡ Lifting & Rigging - Candor Industrial Supply

provides the best lifting and rigging equipment from web

slings, chain slings, hooks, shackles, and more from

brands like Campbell, Kito Crosby, Ken Forging, AZ Lifting,

and others, most of which are made right here in the USA.

⬡ Electrical Products & Accessories - Find the

right electrical supplies for effective power distribution at

your facilities or wherever work takes you. From boxes and

covers to fuses and circuit protection to electrical wire and

tapes, Candor Industrial Supply has a broad selection of

electrical products.

⬡ Power Transmission Products - Power

transmission products are used to transmit power to

create motion. Typical uses of power transmission products

are in construction machinery, material handling systems,

and industrial automation. Candor Industrial Supply has a

variety of power transmission products from bearings, shaft

collars, and shims to machine keys, key stock, and roller

chains.

⬡ Janitorial & Office Supplies - Candor Industrial

Supply has the products you need to clean, sanitize,

deodorize, and shine in any scenario. From sponges,

brooms, and brushes, to can liners, trash cans, and mops,

get any kind of mess cleaned up fast, and keep your

workspace cleaner than ever. They also have the desk

accessories and office supplies you count on to keep your

workday going.

Looking Forward

Candor Industrial Supply sets itself apart with an

intuitive service offering that includes Vendor Managed

Inventory (VMI), Industrial Supply Vending Machines, Local

& Remote-Area Product Delivery, Discounted Standard and

Expedited Freight Options, Tool Repair, Sourcing, and more.

They are your full-line industrial supplies distributor where

customers’ goals, profitability, and success come first. The

people at Candor Industrial Supply are open, honest, and

customer driven. They aim to earn your business and trust

as a supplier, not just for today, but for years to come.

More Information

Candor Industrial Supply, Inc.

Justin Alfrey, Co-Founder

Tel: (844) 5-CANDOR

sales@candorusa.com

www.shopcandor.com

Computer Insights, Inc.

Dennis Cowhey, President

Tel: (800) 539-1233

sales@ci-inc.com

www.ci-inc.com

CANDOR INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY


IN MEMORIAM - LARRY STANLEY (June 1928 – August 2025)

Larry Stanley, founder of Empire Bolt &

Screw Inc. headquartered in Spokane, WA

died on Thursday, August 7 at the age of

97. He grew up in Oakesdale, WA, a small

farming community about 45 miles south

of Spokane during the Great Depression

and credits his upbringing there for shaping

his work ethic. He grew up very poor where

allowances did not exist in his family so at

an early age, he learned you have to work

hard to move yourself forward.

His career in the hardware industry started with

working in general hardware stores but ultimately,

he had a dream to start his own business. In 1972,

that dream became a reality when he mortgaged

everything and founded Empire Bolt & Screw. Stanley,

along with his wife and business partner Beverley,

built the wholesale hardware startup into a thriving

enterprise that remains family-owned and continually

growing today under the ownership of his son Ron.

Stanley was a recognized leader in the industrial

hardware industry and was chosen to be the charter

President of the Western Association of Fastener

Distributors in 1982-83 (now known

as Pac-West Fastener Association). He

also served on the National Fastener

Distributor Association (1981-84) and

was humbled to be elected to the

National Industrial Fastener Show Hall of

Fame in 1991.

Outside of the fastener industry, Stanley

has been active in many civic causes

from Boy Scouts of America to Junior

Achievement. He was chosen to be the Chairman of

the Spokane Area Chamber of Commerce as well as

the Chair of the statewide chamber of commerce,

Association of Washington Business.

A story on Larry Stanley would not be complete

without also sharing how music played such an

important role in his life. Members of NFDA or WAFD

might remember how accomplished he was on his

clarinet when the association band performed at a

conference. Indeed, playing professionally helped

sustain him in the early days as he worked regular

jobs during the day and entertained audiences at night

with his jazz bands.

150



FIGURE 7: FIRST DASH NUMBER DIAMETER SIZE

There is no code stamped for the recess type, but part

inspection quickly yields that the drive recess is an Offset

Cruciform. Putting it all together the part designation is

NAS1580V4T7. (Note that all of this information appears

in the marking except for the “NAS” prefix and the “T”

code for Offset Cruciform.)

Figure 10 is a picture of a sample aerospace hex

head part. Once again, the head marking and part features

allow easy identification of the part. The information

gleaned from the markings:

¤ At 9:00 to 2:00: “NAS675” =

Basic Part Number NAS 675

¤ At 2:00: “V”= Material Code V (Titanium)

¤ At 5:00: “-10” = Grip Length Dash Number

¤ At 6:00: Manufacturer’s ID

¤ Hex Head with three drilled sides

As before, from this information it is possible to

access the standard and obtain the part description from

the Basic Part Number “NAS 675”. It is, “Bolt, Tension,

Hexagon Head, Close Tolerance, 6AL-4V Titanium Alloy,

160 KSI Ftu”.

FIGURE 8: EXAMPLE OF NAS 1580 CODE OPTIONS

FIGURE 8: EXAMPLE OF NAS 1580 CODE OPTIONS




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

ED SMITH ELECTED NFDA PRESIDENT

FOR 2025-2026 by Amy Nijjar

Ed Smith of Wurth Industry USA has been elected

as the 2025-2026 president of the National Fastener

Distributors Association. Melissa Patel of Field will serve

as vice president, Christian Reich of Goebel Fasteners

will continue as associate chair, and Scott McDaniel of

Martin Fastening Solutions will remain on the Board as

immediate past president.

Lisa Breton of DB Roberts, Scott Camp of Atlas

Distribution Services, and Jennifer Sturm of Empire Bolt

& Screw have been elected to serve on the Board of

Directors effective June 11, 2025.

Continuing on the NFDA Board are Steve Andrasik

of Brighton-Best International, Alex Goldberg of AMPG,

NFDA BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2025+2026

NFDA EXECUTIVE COMMITEE 2025+2026

Scott Longfellow of Huyett, and Angela Philippart of AFC

Industries.

Recognition was paid during the meeting to retiring

Board members Gigi Calfee of Copper State Bolt & Nut,

Jim Degnan of S.W. Anderson, and Jake Glaser of Sherex

Fastening Solutions.

For more information about NFDA and its programs,

visit www.nfda-fastener.org or call 562-799-5519.

ASSOCIATION ARTICLE


152



FIGURE 7 ILLUSTRATION OF THE SHARED RISK OF THE SIMPLE

ACCEPTANCE DECISION RULE. IF A RESULT FALLS ON THE

TOLERANCE LIMIT, IT HAS A 50 % CHANCE OF CONFORMANCE

OR NONCONFORMANCE

ISO 17025 accredited laboratories are required

to produce an uncertainty budget which details the

uncertainty of all associated sources and evaluate their

contribution to the total uncertainty of a result. This total

uncertainty is what provides the laboratory with the range

of uncertainty as illustrated in Figure 1. Most laboratories

do not report calculated uncertainty on a certified test

report unless required to do so by the customer, contract

or test method. Doing so requires significant more work

in the certification step of order processing, and it is not

generally required. Although, accredited laboratories are

required to produce a statement of conformity and to

evaluate uncertainty, they are not required to publish the

uncertainty.

ISO 17025 accredited laboratories are required to

decide how they will evaluate uncertainty to arrive at

a statement of conformity and to communicate that

decision to the customer as part of the contractual work

agreement. This requirement is called The Decision

Rule. Most laboratories use Simple Acceptance as their

decision rule. Simple acceptance is a decision rule

where the acceptance limit is the same as the tolerance

limit. Without getting too buried in statistics, the simple

take away is that if the result is within the tolerance

range, it is acceptable or conforming. If the result is

outside the tolerance range, it is nonconforming. It is a

simple pass/fail determination based on result without

the need to consider the calculated range of uncertainty.

Simple acceptance is sometimes referred to as the

FIGURE 8 EXCERPT FROM SAE J429 REV. 2104 FOR GRADE 8

50/50 rule or shared risk rule. That is because if a

result falls exactly on a tolerance limit and has a normal

distribution of uncertainty, there is a 50 % chance the

result is conforming and a 50 % chance the result is

nonconforming (see Figure 8). If the tolerance includes

the limit value as conforming, the simple acceptance

decision rule declares it conforming. For example, SAE

J429, Grade 8 hardness must be in the range 33-39

HRC. This includes the values 33 HRC and 39 HRC and

all values in between as conforming. If the hardness of

a sample is measured at 39 HRC, and the uncertainty

distribution is normal, there is a 50 % chance that it’s

above the upper tolerance limit and a 50 % chance that it

is below the upper tolerance limit. However, the result is

declared conforming according to the simple acceptance

decision rule.

Uncertainty can be well managed through strict

adherence to well developed and proven test methods.

For example, following ASTM F606, mechanical test

methods for fasteners, provides mitigation for many

potential uncertainties in equipment, fixtures and testing

procedures. Performance and calibration requirements

for instruments and testing techniques developed to

ensure good data capture and comparability among a

wide variety of applications are just an example of the

ways that quality test methods reduce uncertainty in test

results.

Most fasteners produced are used in low-risk

applications and may not require any testing at all. As

the risk of failure in an application grows higher, more

testing and more strict quality standards are required.

For the highest risk applications, simple acceptance

may not be sufficient as a decision rule, especially if

the test results are close to the tolerance limits of the

manufacturing standard. In these situations, careful

evaluation of potential risk is required if the possibility of

out of tolerance mechanical properties pose a significant

threat to the project. In such situations, consult with your

laboratory about what decision rule would be best.

ROB LaPOINTE / EXPEDITE TESTING SERVICE



PO Box 701, Tewksbury, MA 01876

TEL 816-686-8987 EMAIL nefda@nefda.com WEB www.nefda.com


BRINGS INDUSTRY TOGETHER by Ashley Ralls

The NEFDA hosted their annual Scholarship Golf

Outing and Annual Membership Meeting on Thursday,

June 5, 2025, at the picturesque Southington Country

Club in Plantsville, CT. Eighteen foursomes teed off

under perfect weather conditions, with over 70 industry

professionals gathering for a day of golf, networking,

and celebration.

This annual event provides a vital opportunity for

NEFDA members and industry partners to connect

in person, strengthen relationships, and celebrate

the partnerships that drive our industry forward. The

funds raised through this outing directly support the

association’s scholarship program, helping to nurture

the next generation of fastener industry professionals.

A Day Full Of Activities And Prizes

Participants were greeted with thoughtful tee gifts,

including premium golf balls and gloves generously

donated by sponsors, along with convenient can cooler

sleeves provided by the NEFDA that fit perfectly in golf

bags. The day began with a hearty breakfast buffet,

followed by 18 holes of golf, and concluded with a

delicious barbecue lunch.

The excitement extended well beyond the fairways

with an impressive array of activities and prizes. Golfers

enjoyed numerous raffle prizes and silent auction items

throughout the day. A highlight of this year’s event was

the new “putt for prizes” contest, where participants

could aim for specific prizes displayed around the

putting green—hit your target, and it was yours to keep!

The competitive spirit was strong throughout the day,

with several foursomes vying for top honors. The NEFDA

awarded prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishes,

along with Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin. There

was also a hole-in-one prize hole, donated by Star

Stainless. Noone took home the big prize this year, but

we’ll be rooting for the golfers again next year!

Gratitude To Our Sponsors

The success of this event wouldn’t be possible

without the generous support of our sponsors, whose

contributions made the day memorable for all attendees.

Their partnership enables the NEFDA to continue its

mission of supporting education and professional

development within the fastener industry.

Mark your calendars for next year’s outing for

Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Southington Country Club.

It’s sure to be another fantastic day of golf, networking,

and industry camaraderie!

For more information on the NEFDA and upcoming

events, please visit www.nefda.com, contact Laura

Murphy, administrator at nefda@nefda.com or PO Box

701, Tewksbury, MA 01876.

ASSOCIATION ARTICLE


154



The evidence is clear: fastener distributors who

invest in Computer Insights, Inc.’s comprehensive

Business Edge TM

solution with robust VMI and Signature

Capture capabilities are better positioned to meet current

challenges while preparing for future opportunities in

an increasingly digital marketplace. When choosing

an ERP system, The Business Edge TM

stands as the

definitive choice for distributors serious about operational

excellence and customer satisfaction.

Testimonials

“BRF leverages the VMI capabilities of The Business

Edge TM

to grow that business unit quickly and efficiently.

Our customers are thrilled with the TBE app’s ease of

use and versatility, especially since setup and use are

so quick. The ability for us to quickly adapt the offering to

our customers’ ever-changing requirements is an added

bonus and provides operational efficiency.”

Ignacy Paprocki, Director of Operations @ Blue

Ribbon Fastener

“I wanted to thank you for introducing us to VMI

Mobile. As with so many features of TBE, this has improved

order turnaround time and increased accuracy. Prior to

implementing VMI Mobile, our salespeople’s handwritten

orders were submitted to in-house staff for entry, often

resulting in inaccurate interpretations of products, bogging

down internal personnel, and slowing shipping times for

our customers. Now, our sales team can upload orders

and have them printed to the warehouse for fulfillment

before they leave the customer’s location. Accurate.

Efficient. Solutions. Thank you for knowing our industry.”

Amy Rasmussen, Manager @ Weaver Distributing

The Business Edge - VMI & Signature Capture

Core Features

⬡

Cross-Platform Mobile Compatibility - Operates

seamlessly across iOS and Android smartphones, tablets,

and notebooks.

⬡ Offline Functionality - Continues working

productively in environments where cellular and WiFi

signals are blocked, with automatic synchronization when

connectivity returns.

⬡ Real-Time Two-Way Communication - Maintains

connectivity between field personnel and central operations.

⬡ Native Mobile Integration - Mobile capabilities

are built directly into the ERP architecture for unparalleled

access speed.

⬡ VMI Mobile Applications - Comprehensive vendormanaged

inventory tools accessible from mobile devices.

⬡ Signature Capture Technology - Digital signature

collection for proof of delivery and order processing.

⬡ Real-Time Order Visibility - Live tracking of order

status and progress.

⬡ Historical Data Analysis - Comprehensive analysis

capabilities for trend identification and forecasting.

⬡ Configurable VMI Programs - Tailored inventory

management solutions based on specific business needs.

⬡ Remote Workstation Support - Accommodates

remote workers without additional licensing costs.

Key Benefits

⬡ Improved Operational Efficiency - Streamlined

processes reduce time and resource requirements.

⬡ Error-Free Operations - Automated processes

eliminate data entry errors and human mistakes.

⬡ Enhanced Customer Service - Instant access to

information enables exceptional customer experiences.

⬡ Cost Savings - Reduced operational costs through

improved efficiency and automation.

⬡ Increased Inventory Turnover - Optimized stocking

levels based on data-driven forecasting.

⬡ Paperwork Elimination - Digital processes replace

traditional paper-based workflows.




⬡ Simplified Order Entry - Streamlined order

processing reduces complexity and errors.

⬡ Enhanced Proof of Delivery - Digital signature

capture improves delivery documentation.

⬡ Real-Time Decision Making - Up-to-the-second

information supports informed business decisions.

⬡ Precise Usage Tracking - Detailed monitoring of

product usage patterns and trends.

⬡ Quick Order Processing - Fast transmission

speeds set industry benchmarks for efficiency.

⬡ Comprehensive Usage Reports - Detailed

reporting supports strategic decision-making.

⬡ Consistent Customer Demand Fulfillment -

Predictive inventory management maintains service levels.

⬡ Competitive Advantage - Advanced technology

capabilities distinguish businesses from competitors.

⬡ Scalability - The system grows with business

needs and supports expansion opportunities.

⬡

Reduced Training Requirements - Intuitive

interface design minimizes the learning curve.

⬡

Improved Audit Trails - Digital processes enhance

tracking and compliance capabilities.

⬡ Strategic Partnership Support - Ongoing

technical knowledge and customer service from

Computer Insights, Inc.

More Information

For more about Workflow Automation and The

Business Edge TM

contact

Dennis Cowhey, President,

at Computer Insights,

Inc., Tel: (800) 539-1233,

email: sales@ci-inc.com or

www.ci-inc.com.

COMPUTER INSIGHTS, INC.

156



In addition, we are hoping to buddy up at the

next Experimental Aircraft Association Convention to

learn how your product lines are used. Given how your

company is considered the ‘go-to-resource’ for fastener

technical information, we have a lot to learn about best

practices for handling the inventory, marketing the new

lines and supporting your sales. While our families are

looking up at the airshow, we will be walking the vendor

booths and seminars to see and touch the products.”

Going From “Wow! To Stunned And Beyond

It was a good thing that three members of our

executive team accompanied me on this tour. It was

a very good thing that we were all sitting down during

Mike’s presentation, otherwise all this might have been

a written off as a dream or hallucination. No one can

possibly be prepared for an offer that is “too good to

be true”…and really is true. With sincere and vociferous

thank yous, handshakes and hugs we left out hosts

and new friends and headed back to our normal world.

Initially speechless as we entered the car, soon everyone

wanted to speak at once.

None of us could believe how a simple friendly visit

between non-competing Fastener Distributors could turn

into a life changing experience. We expected to see

new procedures, techniques and technologies, not to

be overwhelmed by good fortune. When Mike made his

initial offer I was the only one with the presence of mind

to speak, but in the car, everyone had the same reaction,

“Did I just hear what I think I heard,” followed by “Can we

even do this?” I just sat there, lost in thought, and glad

someone else was driving.

A consensus was reached by the time we arrived at

what we now viewed as our antiquated and dilapidated

facility. “YES WE CAN…AND WILL!”

Nevertheless, we agreed not to discuss the new

developments with anyone until we slept on the plans

and met in the morning. There were still ramifications we

needed time to consider and determine how best to get

everyone on board.

The Buy In

The rest of the afternoon, I could not focus on my

daily routine. Calls were sent to Voice Mail, prosaic

emails went unread and undeleted as I tried to figure out

my next moves.

At dinner with my wife, Beth, I picked at the food

and made small talk, but my mind was elsewhere. She

noticed this mood and asked a few questions, including,

“So, how was your tour.” Breaking the promise not to

discuss the 5-Star Fastener offer I told her exactly what

we saw and more importantly Mike’s offer to create a

new business entity thru synergy and the $500,000

“dowry” to get things started.

Beth worked at the company until the children came

and occasionally helps with special projects, so she

knows the way we operate and especially how I think.

Her current hobby and passion is making birthday cards

for a local senior center. She listened thoughtfully and

attentively, but when I told her about Mike’s Aunt Agatha,

her eyes lit up and she said, “I want in!” Agatha needs

a partner who knows the current address system, and

since I set it up initially, there is no one better suited to

facilitate changes. Besides Aggie sounds like a kindred

spirit I want to meet.”

Assured of this support at home and at work, I

tossed and turned all night to come up with a way to

build the same enthusiasm in all of my staff.

The next morning I called a meeting for 10 AM, and

I nailed it! Everyone is now onboard.

We are going to work together to make this happen.

In The Next Episode

So many questions, so many concerns, so much

to assimilate, so much to do. Will high hopes, great

planning and lofty goals survive when adapting the 5-Star

paradigms to an existing environment? What kind of a

new business model are they creating and will reality

derail even the best-laid plans.

The answers to these questions and more will be

provided in the next episode.

ROBERT FOOTLIK

FASTENER FAIR USA

NASHVILLE, TN - MAY 28-29, 2025

158



Wrap-Up

One of the attributes about aerospace parts that has

always impressed me is the ability of part manufacturers

to successfully place a lot of marking information on part

heads, even very small ones. These markings are critical

for being able to identify information about the part. In

general, these markings are pretty straight forward and

after a little practice navigating the standards, the full

part designation is easy to construct.

This series of articles has hopefully been informative

regarding some of the practices and requirements

that make aerospace parts special and different from

FIGURE 10: EXAMPLE PART HEAD MARKING

other fastener parts. Each market segment has their

This standard utilizes Method 2 designation, which

own uniqueness, but in the world of fasteners the

means each diameter size is given by a separate NAS

critical requirements on many of those aerospace parts

number. Figure 11 shows Table 1 which designates

elevate them to a class of their own. Any manufacturer

NAS 675 as a .3125-24 (5/16-24) diameter bolt. The

or distributer that desires to participate in this market

“V” instructs that it is 6Al-4V Titanium. In this case, all

parts in this series are made of 6Al-4V Titanium, so the

segment must be prepared to fully understand and fulfill

“V” is not actually necessary but useful to provide easy these unique requirements.

recognition for users that the part

is Titanium. The head is drilled

for lock wires, so the designation

should display an “H” after the

Dash Number. Figure 12 shows

that for a Dash Number of

“10” the Grip is 0.625” and for

NAS 675 the Total Length is

1.094”. Pulling it all together

FIGURE 11: EXAMPLE OF METHOD 2 BASIC PART NUMBER DIAMETER SIZE

the designation is NAS675V10H.

Once again, most, but not all,

of this information is included

in the head marking. The “H”

designating three cross drilled

head holes for lock wiring is the

only element not marked on the

head.

FIGURE 12: EXAMPLE OF METHOD 2 GRIP DASH NUMBER

LAURENCE CLAUS




160




advertisers index

A

ACS MANUFACTURING, INC 117

Formed spring steel fasteners

Tel (888) NUTS-R-US

Email: info@acsmanufacturing.com

ALBANY STEEL & BRASS 55

Specialty Tapping Screws - Swageform®

Tel (312) 733-1900

Email: sales@albanysteel.com

ALFA TOOLS® 93

High quality industrial cutting tools, fastener

drive tools, files, wire wheels/brushes, and

abrasives.

Tel (800) 253-2532

Email: sales@alfatools.com

ALL AMERICAN WASHER WERKS 89

Quality producers of washers and stampings

Tel (847) 566-9091

Email: sales@washerwerks.com

ALPHA-GRAINGER MFG. CO. 25

Electronic hardware, captive screws,

shoulder screws, spacers & standoffs

Tel (508) 520-4005

www.agmi.com

ALUMINUM FASTENER SUPPLY 80, 81

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 87

Belleville Washers, Belleville Springs,

Disc Springs, Flange Washers, precisionmachined

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.

Tel (317) 472-9000

Email: sales@ampg.com

AZTECH LOCKNUT COMPANY 47

Manufacturers certified all-metal locknuts

and threaded specials, delivering highperformance

fastening solutions for

industrial, automotive, aerospace and

defense.

Tel (630) 851-4369

Email: sales@aztechlocknut.com

B

BAY STANDARD MANUFACTURING 77

Largest manufacturer of threaded rod

products in the Western United States.

Product line includes - All Thread Rod,

Anchor Bolts, Coil Rod, Double-End Studs

and Single-End Studs. Value-added, full

service provider with facilities in California

and Indiana.

Tel (800) 228-8640

Email: sales@baystandard.com

BAY SUPPLY 3

Have you joined Bay Supply’s Marketplace

Yet? Join the 400+ Manufacturers and

Distributors already connecting with 44,000

Sourcing Professionals FOR FREE! We’ve

developed the most powerful RFQ software

application available in our industry. Join

today!

Tel (800) 718-8818

Email: help@baysupply.com

BELMETRIC.COM FRONT COVER, 16

Masters of metric fasteners since 1976

carrying over 10,000 SKUs ready to ship.

Specializing in rare fasteners. In addition to

stock items, we also offer a special-order

program where box quantities of difficult to

source metric fasteners can be purchased.

Tel (978) 649-6201

Email: sales@belmetric.com

THE BRADLEY GROUP OF COMPANIES 39

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

Email: coatingpros@bradleygoc.com

BRIGHTON-BEST INTERNATIONAL

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 a full line of

stainless products.

Tel (800) 275-0050

www.brightonbest.com

BRIKKSEN STAINLESS FASTENERS 85

Full line of stainless-steel inch and metric

fasteners.

Tel (800) 962-1614

Email: sales@brikksen.com

C

CARVER ENGINEERING 128

Fastener testing and consultation. With

13 dedicated in-house labs and external

partners, we have your needs covered.

Tel (619) 204-1543

Email: carmenv@carverem.com

THE CENTER FOR FINANCIAL,

LEGAL & TAX PLANNING, INC. 155

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. 149

Mfrs of Wire Rope and Chain Fittings, Industrial

and Marine Hardware and Allied Products

Tel (847) 455-6609

Email: info@chicagohardware.com

COMPUTER INSIGHTS 9

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

CRAFTECH INDUSTRIES, LLC. 35

Providing high performance plastic solutions

for your prints, parts and engineering

problems for over 50 years. Product design,

engineering, prototyping and manufacturing.

Proudly made in the USA.

Tel (518) 828-5001

Email: info@craftechind.com

advertisers index

C

CRESCENT MANUFACTURING 61

Celebrating 65 years of manufacturing

expertise in the field of miniature screws

and miniature fasteners, Crescent offers

distributors an established source for

Aerospace, Military, Commercial, and

Special Engineered needs.

Tel (860) 673-5983

Email: sales@crescentmanufacturing.com

D

DARLING BOLT 101

Supplier of US, metric and stainless-steel

fasteners including nuts, bolts, screws,

washers, assortments and specialty auto

body fasteners.

Tel (800) 882-0747

Email: sales@darlingbolt.com

DECKER MANUFACTURING 54

Leader in manufacturing and global

sourcing of high-quality fasteners to the

automotive, farm equipment, highway, and

construction industries.

Tel (330) 926-2070

Email: johnh@deckernut.com

DÖERKEN COATINGS 65

Global brand of quality and highperformance

coating systems for fasteners.

Enhance functionality and extend service life

with our PFAS-Free zinc-flake technologies.

Tel (517) 522-4600

Email: coatings-us@doerken.com

DISTRIBUTOR’S LINK 167

Tel (800) 356-1639

Email: tracey@linkmagazine.com

E

E & T FASTENERS, INC 51

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

EDSON MANUFACTURING, INC. 2

The Distributor’s Source supplying high

quality rivets for 60 years!

Tel (203) 879-2529

Email: CustomerService@edsonmfg.com

EXPEDITE TESTING SERVICE 160

Fast and efficient testing solutions.

Delivering excellence, on-time.

Tel (619) 736-7872

www.expeditetest.com

E-Z LOK 73

Your single-source supplier of threaded

inserts used in metal, plastic, wood, and

additive products.

Tel: (800) 234-5613

www.ezlok.com

F

FALL RIVER MFG CO., INC. 45

Manufacturer of Stainless steel & nonferrous

fasteners.

Tel (800) 275-6991

Email: sales@fallrivermfg.com

FASCOMP ELECTRONIC HARDWARE 115

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. 71

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 / ALUMINUM USA 75

Two manufacturing events, one incredible

experience. May 5-6, 2026 – Charlotte

Convention Center, Charlotte, NC. Learn

more and pre-register today.

www.fastenerfairusa.com

FASTENER INDUSTRY WEB LINKS 118

FCH SOURCING NETWORK 113

(Tel) 877-332-7836

Email: eric@fastenersclearinghouse.com

FORD FASTENERS, INC. 15

Celebrating 60+ years of providing 410

stainless steel screws, sheet metal screws,

self-drilling screws, self-piercing screws, and

EPDM bonded sealing washers.

Tel (800) 272-3673

Email: info@fordfasteners.com

G

GF&D SYSTEMS 83

‘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

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 161

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. 103

Fastener inspection equipment, innovative

gage design, and dimensional calibration.

Tel (817) 870-8888

Email: sales@greensladeandcompany.com

H

HANGER BOLT & STUD CO. 129

USA Hanger bolts, studs, dowel screws, pins.

Tel (800) 537-7925

Email: sales@hangerbolt.com

HANSON RIVET & SUPPLY CO. 99

Rivets, threaded inserts, riveting tools,

riveting machines, washers

Tel (800) 777-4838

advertisers index

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

Email: matt.daleiden@

innovativecomponentsales.com

INDUSTRIAL RIVET & FASTENER CO. 57

One name, one number, one source for

rivets and RivetKing® FreeSet Series.

Tel (800) BUY-RIVET

Email: info@rivet.com

INTEGRATED PACKAGING 141

Parts are electronically counted, heatsealed

in our poly-bags, and labeled with

identification information on every bag, with

accurate optical counting mechanisms and

printers for SKUs.

Tel (847) 439-5730

Email: sales@integratedpack.com

INTERCORP 1

Your expert-grade fastener supplier for

the professional advantage. Premium selfdrilling,

drywall, needle-point, pole gripper,

stainless steel, outdoor, concrete, cement

board, woodworking and special application.

Tel (800) 762-2004

www.intercorpusa.com

INTERNATIONAL FASTENERS, INC. 37

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 SOFTWARE 79

Full-featured, easy-to-use ERP distribution

software designed and optimized for the

Fastener Industry.

Tel (877) 446-9775

Email: sales@inxsql.com

ISC – INTERCONTINENTAL SALES 87

Fastener and Building Related Products.

Same day shipping, free private labeling, no

minimums

Tel (800) 741-4278

Email: info@isc-sales.com

J

J. LANFRANCO FASTENER SYSTEMS 97

Manufacturer of self-locking nuts, t-bolts,

and other safety critical hardware. Available

in carbon steel, stainless steel and exotics.

DFAR compliant. 40 years of experience and

trusted worldwide.

Tel (855) 694-3250

www.jlanfranco.com

K

KEN FORGING 27

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

KINFAST HARDWARE 91

Screw manufacturer based in Vietnam.

Specialize in producing concrete screws,

self-drilling screws, drywall screws, threaded

studs and nails. Your trusted global supplier.

Tel (086) 834-7912

Email: info@kfproduct.com

KINTER 69

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 131

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

LINDFAST SOLUTIONS GROUP 29

North America’s largest master distributor

of fasteners. LSG serves over 3,100 unique

customers made up of national, regional,

and local distributors.

Check out LSG Brands at LindfastGrp.com.

M

BRUNO MARBACHER 135

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

METRIC & MULTISTANDARD 13

Providing quality metric industrial products

and exceptional customer service since

1963

Tel (800) 431-2792

MW INDUSTRIES, INC – TEXAS 95

Washers, special fasteners, and metal

stamping for over 45 years. ISO 9001:2015

certified.

Tel (800) 875-3510

Email: sales@mwindustries.com

N

NORTH EAST FASTENERS (NEF) 11

AS9100 certified, supplying IFI, ANSI, MS,

NAS, NASM, AN, DIN, JIS, JCIS high quality

fasteners for commercial, military, and

aerospace.

Tel (860) 589-3242

Email: nef@nef1.com

P

PIVOT POINT 33

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

R

RHS STAINLESS 145

Stocking a full range of domestic/DFARS

stainless pitch diameters and standard

diameters. Non-standard and custom

lengths are also available. Supplying

nationwide.

Tel (610) 997-7604

Email: sales@rhsstainless.com

advertisers index

R

W.J. ROBERTS CO. 63

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

ROTOR CLIP 31

The only manufacturer of every style of

Retaining Ring (tapered section, constant

section, spiral rings). Wave Springs and Self-

Compensating Hose Clamps. Full line of inch,

metric, DIN, ANSI and JIS parts. Also support

assembly through installation tooling,

including applicators, pliers, dispensers, and

automated assembly equipment available.

Tel (732) 469-7333

Email: info@rotorclip.com

R&R ENGINEERING CO. 127

Largest U.S. Manufacturer of U-Bolts, Bent

Bolts, and Threaded Products.

Tel (800) 979-1921

Email: sales@randrengineering.com

S

SETKO FASTENERS & DISTRIBUTION 105

Hex socket set screws, nylon & brass tip

set screws. Socket, flat and button head

cap screws. Socket and 6-lobe cap screws,

square head set screws, and shoulder bolts.

Dowel pins, zinc plated sockets, specials,

standards and secondaries.

SHEAR-LOC PRODUCTS 113

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 49

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

STAR STAINLESS 58, 59

Wholesale distributor specializing in

stainless products for over 70 years.

Sockets, screws, nuts, bolts, washers,

rods, and pins. Strut accessories. Full line

of mil-spec fasteners. Authorized sole U.S.

distributor of Bumax®.

www.starstainless.com

SUBSCRIPTION FORM 117

SUNCO INDUSTRIES CO., LTD. 43

One of Japan’s leading master distributors,

with a limitless inventory of fasteners and

supplies. With a reliable supply chain in

place, we provide any type of product, any

time. With our 3Q Net online store, search

2 million products and let us fulfill all your

metric fastener needs!

Tel +81-6-6539-3560

Email: export@sunco.co.jp

SUPERIOR WASHER & GASKET CORP. 23

Your “single source supplier” for Made in

the USA washer and gasket products for the

last 50 years.

Tel (631) 273-8282

Email: swg@superiorwasher.com

T

TAMPER-PRUF SCREW, INC. 123

Leader in Security Screws since 1974.

Tel (562) 531-9340

Email: sales@tamperpruf.net

TUTTLE MANUFACTURING 163

Anchors, bent bolt specials, spade bolts,

acme threaded bars.

Tel (847) 381-7713

Email: tuttlemfg@gmail.com

U

UNICORP 75

Manufacturer of electronic hardware,

fasteners and handles since 1971.

Tel (973) 674-1700

Email: sales@unicorpinc.com

UC COMPONENTS 109

Clean-Critical Fastener and Seal Solutions.

HV, UHV, Cleanroom Ready Fasteners and

seals. RediVac® clean-packaged screws and

O-rings. Custom products and prototypes.

Tel (408) 782-1929

Email: sales@uccomponents.com

V

VIRGINIA FASTENERS 123

Specializing in HDG timber, hex, carriage,

lag bolts, tie rods, nuts and washers.

Tel (800) 368-3430

Email: sales@vafasteners.com

VOGELSANG FASTENER SOLUTIONS 53

Manufacturer of slotted tension pins, coiled

spring pins, tension bushings, ground hollow

dowels, compression limiter, automotive

spring pins, spindles, and custom

engineering pins.

Tel (800) 526-2376

www.vogelsangfastener.com

VOLT INDUSTRIAL PLASTICS, INC.

INSIDE FRONT COVER

US made plastic fasteners, all types &

quantities, custom molding since 1992.

Over 100 million parts in stock.

Tel (800) 844-8024

Email: sales@voltplastics.com

W

WILLIE WASHER MFG. 165

Domestic manufacturer of fender, spring,

tab and flat washers,

Tel (847) 956-1344

Email: sales@williewasher.com

X

XL SCREW CORPORATION 109

Importer of standard fasteners - hex cap

screws, bolts, nuts, locknuts, sheet metal

screws, self-drilling 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

FALL 2025

Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!

Delete template?

Save as template ?