Issue: 120 (Nov - Dec 2019)

My first stop was to see Dr Stefan Beyer, general manager of Deutscher Schraubenverband (German Fastener Association), who not only spoke about the objectives of the association, but also the current climate within the German fastener market.

I also had the privilege of once again visiting Böllhoff’s impressive headquarters in Bielefeld, to speak to co-CEO Michael Böllhoff about the strategy behind the Group’s recent €172 million infrastructure investment and the benefits it will offer.

Other highlights during my trip included meeting Panos Spryidis who recently became the chair of fastening technology for the faculty of architecture and civil engineering at TU Dortmund University – who focused on the role fastening technology plays within the university’s curriculum; Matthias Bierbach explained BiERBACH’s new strategy to switch to the production of specialised nails; and I found out more about Felo – a leading specialist in screwdrivers and screwdriver bits.

During the trip I also had the opportunity to find out how Max Mothes became a manufacturer of high performance technology; see first-hand the benefits of GESIPA®’s completed ‘Evotion’ project; as well as meet Ralf and Goetz Kaltheuner – the fourth generation of the family behind Puehl – and discuss why they are joining the operational board from 2020. 

Also in this issue, our Cover Story concentrates on Ambrovit and how the Italian-based company is meeting customers needs through its vast stock quality and its commitment to guarantee quality.

Plus, in response to the article ‘CE Marking on post-installed fasteners: Why not a European Standard’ – which was published in our September edition, Thomas Holland-Letz from Construction Fixings Europe looks at whether the standardisation of post-installed fasteners would actually be the ‘magic bullet’, as well as myths and facts on hEN and EAD.

Another excellent article within the Construction Fixings section is from Ryan Murphy, technical director at Evolution Fasteners (UK) Ltd, who carries on his ‘Famous failures series’, this time concentrating on hydrogen embrittlement. Magdalena Grzelak, chief communication manager at Rawlplug, also focuses on the 2^nd generation SC-40 II and how it can offer both the speed of serial fixing, with the precision and safety of manual installation.

There is also plenty more news and insight as well, so make sure you don’t miss anything.