Insight

Thanks to new investments, driven by increased customer demand – and after a hiatus of over 30 years – Koelner Rawlplug has resumed the production of hex nuts at its factory in Łańcut, Poland. 

Koelner Rawlplug’s expansion of its production capabilities was possible thanks to the acquisition of a cutting edge HOTmatic AMP 20N production line, a state of the art hot former that is designed specifically for the manufacture of small precision parts in high annual volumes. 

With this new addition to its machine park, Koelner Rawlplug is able to produce its own nuts for the increasingly popular Rawlplug HV sets. The machine is also suitable for the production of various complex parts and semi-finished products in a wide range of shapes and sizes, providing Koelner Rawlplug with the flexibility to utilise the machine in a variety of applications.

The HOTmatic AMP 20N operates in a production line, equipped with an induction heating system with a heating power of 900kW. It consists of three forming stations, with a total slider press capacity of 1,500kN, and can forge parts from steel bars up to 6 metres in length. With a maximum production speed of 200 parts per minute, Koelner Rawlplug states that it is ready for efficient and cost-effective production of high-quality hot formed components.

The production process for HV nuts begins with a steel rod of the appropriate diameter. The rod is then heated and cut to the appropriate size and weight. The prepared part undergoes hot forging in three stages – firstly preliminary forming, secondly creating the shape, and then finally forming and perforation. After the shape is formed, the nut proceeds to the in-house heat treatment process at the Łańcut factory. The parts, now with the necessary mechanical properties, are then subjected to a hot dip galvanising process, with the final threading stage also conducted in the Łańcut factory.

Throughout the production process, every stage is closely monitored by the company’s quality control department to ensure that the final product released to the market meets the highest quality standard. 

“Given the constantly rising demand for our construction bolts, we primarily utilise this new investment to produce nuts for the Rawlplug HV sets,” explains Koelner Rawlplug. “However, the hot forming machine is versatile and capable of manufacturing various complex parts and semi-finished products, including those intended for further machining – with a convenient solution being our well equipped machining department that operates on the same premises.”

The company adds: “The launch of nut production at the factory in Łańcut not only represents yet another addition to our production capabilities, but also enables us to meet increasing market demands with efficiency and precision. New investments continue to play a crucial role in our business and reflect our ongoing commitment to quality and innovation, solidifying our position as a leader in the production of high-quality fasteners.”