Author Archives Bossard

5 Benefits of Metric Dimensioning Fasteners

Metric Fasteners

When looking at fasteners, you have to decide whether you want imperial fasteners or metric fasteners. When designing new products metric dimensioning should be considered as a low cost solution to fastener assembling.

Metric fasteners most often win out over imperial fasteners and here’s why:

  1. It is a simple form of measurement with a base of whole numbers. This can help reduce the number of fasteners in a bill of materials.
  2. They are interchangeable in a global market. Parts can be assembled globally because of the availability of tools. Replacement fasteners can be purchased from local sources. Interchangeability was the key reason the automotive industry has moved to the metric form of fasteners.
  3. The metric system is the most precise form of measurement. It has been adopted by the medical industry as well as the aerospace and electronics industries.
  4. Metric thread falls between an inch course and fine thread. This allows the designer to take advantage of both thread types. It’s a better choice for vibration resistance as well as providing a larger stress area in the cross section of the screw. A commercial finish can be applied without gaging issues.
  5. Standard metric fasteners are manufactured in accordance to the ISO 4759 standard. This is a global base hole system that uses a letters and numbers system to determine a standard plus/minus tolerance for threaded fasteners.

These benefits will aid long term cost savings in design, manufacturing, and assembly, as well as product longevity in the market. If you are interested in other ways of making your business more productive, check out our product solutions and our Smart Factory Logistics.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, let us know how we can help you by contacting us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com.


April 21, 2017
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Fasteners for Composite Materials

composites

Composite materials have become more popular to use in various projects because of their versatility. Composites are often lighter and stronger than traditional materials, so they are a go-to for projects. However, it can be a little more tricky to find fastening solutions for composite materials. Fasteners such as bigHead® and BCT®* were created for more complex materials and situations like working with composite materials. Learn what bigHead® and BCT® can do for you.

bigHead®

These fasteners are made so any attachment points such as pins, nails, nuts, threads, hooks, etc. are attached to the head or base plate via a weld point. This construction allows bigHeads to be integrated into your project “invisibly.” It also means these fasteners don’t require holes in your composite materials, so your material can stay strong. These fasteners can either be embedded into the composites or surface-bonded to the composites so you don’t compromise the composite material itself.

BCT®

BCT® rivet nuts have cross holes on the shank to determine where the rivet nut will collapse to allow it to be installed in non-conventional blind applications. BCT® rivet nuts give you a resilient connection because it applies minimal stress around the base material so there is no damage to your materials.

Both bigHead® and BCT® work hard on your tough projects. These fasteners were designed to help out on those projects that are hard to handle. Using these fasteners with composite materials will help you to have a strong, stable and resilient product.

To find out more about fasteners for composite materials, or to find out which fastener is perfect for your project, contact us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com.

*BCT® is a registered trademark owned by BBA srl Italy

April 14, 2017
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Industry 4.0 Definition and Smart Factory Logistics

smart factory methodology with Bossard

The purpose of a factory is the mass production of goods. It allows for a company to make many products very quickly. Ultimately, the faster and better that companies can make products the more money they can make.

Factories have been around for a while, but now we are transitioning into something new—Smart Factories. “A new type of factory, so-called Smart Factories, are emerging worldwide. Manufacturers require flexible production lines and sites,” explains Urs Güttinger, Head of Smart Factory Logistics at Bossard. “Smart technologies enable this agile production at a fraction of the cost and time.”

At Bossard, we are on top of this new trend. We can help you implement smart manufacturing with our Smart Factory Logistics methodology. This methodology helps develop a leaner, faster, and better manufacturing process within your factories.

Bossard’s Smart Factory Logistics

We provide a simple yet intelligent process – Smart Factory Logistics is the complete system that manages your B- and C-parts. The proven methodology uncovers the potential for improvement and makes that potential a reality.

We provide customized solutions – We have advanced technological systems like SmartBin Cloud and SmartLabel Cloud that provide real-time information about the parts you have and the parts you need. That way your factory is provided with exactly what you need, not what you might need.

We provide transparency – Bossard has a supply chain collaboration software, ARIMS, that collects and processes the data from your specific factory. This software pulls together all the information you need from our systems like SmartBin Cloud and SmartLabel Cloud as well as other information you need to get the job done. This creates transparency between you and the customer as they can receive real-time information online.

If you are ready to step up and take your factory to the next level, contact us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com. You can also find more information at www.smartfactorylogistics.com.

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Smart Factory Logistics – Last Mile Management

Bossard SmartLabel – Smart Factory Logistics


April 07, 2017
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Fastening Solution for Extreme Heat: ecosyn®-MRX

ecosyn®-MRX

In an ideal world, your product would exist in the perfect climate with no wind, water or extreme temperatures of any kind. You would also never have to deal with any type of corrosion or rust. In a perfect world, your product would withstand anything man or nature could throw at it.

This isn’t a perfect world, but at Bossard we work to improve it every day. We work to provide you with fastening solutions that better stand up to the elements and keep your product going stronger for longer. One of these fastening solutions is ecosyn®-MRX, and it was developed for many reasons, but one of these reasons was to withstand extreme heat.

Customer Problem: Extreme Heat

A Bossard customer in France develops fixing systems around the world. They needed a fastening solution for a tunnel renovation. We were asked to provide a solution that could withstand corrosion and heat in the case of extreme conditions like a tunnel fire.

Our Solution: ecosyn®-MRX

Our team came up with the solution of ecosyn®-MRX. This fastener is constructed with special martensitic, hardened and tempered chrome steel. This means it can resist at least six hours in extreme high temperature up to 1,200° C. ecosyn®-MRX can withstand those hot temperatures to get the job done.

Examples of application areas for ecosyn®-MRX:

  • General sheet metal construction
  • Heating and ventilation ducts
  • Appliances
  • Vehicle body construction
  • Facade constructions
  • Green houses

You can use this fastening solution for a variety of different applications because it offers you many benefits. However, if you are looking for a solution for heat resistance, ecosyn®-MRX is a great option for you. Contact us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com if you have any questions!


March 31, 2017
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Find the Right Logistics System to Lower Your Total Cost of Ownership

Comparison of Bossard Smart Factory Logistics Systems

Looking for help with lean management and establishing better work processes? Take a deeper look at Smart Factory Logistics from Bossard. Below, we break down some of our parts and services so you can decide what will be the most helpful for you and your business.

SmartBin Cloud

SmartBin Cloud is the latest logistics technology from Bossard. SmartBin Cloud combines our tried-and-true SmartBin system with our intelligent modular label SmartLabel Cloud. Like our original SmartBin solution, SmartBin Cloud uses weight sensors to monitor your inventory. When a reorder point is reach, a new order will be placed automatically.

A new feature to SmartBin Cloud is the motion-triggered weight sensor that updates all stock and order information at every use (pick or refill).

SmartLabel Cloud

SmartLabel Cloud is an option for you if you cannot change or completely convert your existing system. SmartLabel Cloud can be added to any standard bin you may have, so it doesn’t require you to change anything about the way your factory currently runs.

The idea behind SmartLabel Cloud is that it will be an easy way for you to reorder products because the label has all the information to help you order parts without confusion. SmartLabel Cloud will also soon have the availability to be integrated with pick-to-light systems.

SmartBin

The idea behind the SmartBin part of Smart Factory Logistics is that we measure the number of goods that you have to increase efficiency. Do you want to implement just in time inventory at your facility? Luckily for you, you will be supplied with the correct number of materials at the correct time.

SmartLocker

Bossard SmartLocker is the perfect solution for storing and keeping inventory of high value items and consumables. The items stored in a SmartLocker can only be accessed via an RFID card that allows you to have full access control.

SmartCard

SmartCard is a flexible system for assembly line delivery. Like the SmartLabel, this technology is another that can be very easily implemented into what you do now.

When an item is out of stock, you take the RFID card associated with it and you put the card into the electronic mailbox. Then, Bossard will replenish your product for you. This is slightly different from SmartLabel where you must order the product yourself.

Conventional Logistics Systems

With Bossard Code, data is recorded with a barcode reader and sent to Bossard. Then, Bossard takes care of the replenishment of your product for you.

Do you use certain parts quite frequently? That is where Bossard’s 2Bin system comes in.

You can get two standard bins for all your parts or whatever parts you need. These bins are arranged one behind the other, so when you use up the first one, you just start using the second one. In the meantime, Bossard will collect your empty bins and refill them at regular intervals.

There are various options and various levels of Bossard’s Smart Factory Logistics. You can start small or go big, but either way you will get the Proven Productivity from Bossard. If you have questions about which parts of Smart Factory Logistics will work best for you and your supply chain, contact us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com.

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4 Inventory Management Strategies to Help Your Business Succeed

5 Lean Manufacturing Principles to Improve Efficiency


March 24, 2017
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Methods for Calculating Appropriate Tightening Torque

When you are trying to determine the tightening torque you need for a fastener, there are a couple ways you will want to go about it. It may seem like a fairly easy answer, but that is not always the case.

Use a Torque Calculator

Using a torque calculator to determine the approximate tightening torque is a good place to start. This calculator will request information such as the coefficient of friction, the bolt strength and diameter. A torque calculator is a good way to get started and get an approximate tightening torque, however, it will not be exact in all situations. This is why after using a calculator, it is a good idea to perform some joint testing to verify your results.

Test Your Torque

Once you arrive at the proper torque requirement, you may want to test your torque values to verify the accuracy of your assembly tools. This is important because it helps you ensure the safety, reliability and quality of your project.

You will need a calibrated hand torque wrench to verify the tightening torque of your fasteners. You can select from the First Movement Test, the Loosening Test and the Marking Test as an indication of the applied torque:

  1. The First Movement Test will involve applying force to your torque wrench after the fastener has been tightened. You will do this until the first movement of the fastener is noted.
  2. The Loosening Test requires that you turn the fastener in the opposite direction to loosen it. You will record the torque when the fastener first breaks loose.
  3. For the Marking Test, you will need to mark the fastener and continue to mark onto the surface being clamped. Then you will loosen and retighten until the marks match up.

It is important to use the proper torque on your project to ensure safe, reliable joints. To learn more about torque and methods for measuring it, contact Bossard at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com.

March 17, 2017
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Self-Tapping Screws for Plastic

self-tapping screws for plastic

Self-tapping screws are screws that can form their own threads as they are driven into the material. Plastic requires a specially designed thread profile as tapping screws used with steel can result in residual stresses in the plastic that can degrade the structural integrity of the assembly. Plastic screws give you more flexibility and quickly assemble components with fewer fasteners.

When looking into self-tapping screws, the first step is to decide what type of self-tapping screws are best suited for the application. Self-tapping screws for plastic application are classified into two categories: thread-forming and thread-cutting. To help chose the right screw category, it’s important to understand the type of plastic you are fastening into: thermoplastic or thermoset. Below is a brief description of each category.

Thread-Forming Screws

Thread-forming screws, generally, function best in thermoplastic materials. Thread-forming screws produce no waste as the plastic that is displaced to create the thread flows back into the root of the thread resulting in a very secure fit.

ecosyn®-plast is a great option for a thread-forming screw for plastic. These screws are designed to easily penetrate the material without causing stress to the material. Check out some advantages of ecosyn®-plast:

  • Low driving torque and high stripping torque
  • High breaking torque and tensile strength of the screw
  • Excellent security against vibration
  • Low risk for cracking the base material
  • No setting of the assembly due to excessive relaxation of the plastic material

Thread-Cutting Screws

Thread-cutting screws are designed for thermoset material. These screws remove material because they have cutting edges. Thread-cutting screws have a smaller flank angle to reduce installation torque while increasing surface area which results in a higher pullout force.

If you have questions about self-tapping screws for plastic or need help in deciding on a fastener, contact us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com. Our experts can help you get the materials you need for a successful project. We are also prepared to provide you with technical advice and we can even provide field-related assembly tests for you in our laboratory to help with application technique.

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https://provenproductivity.com/how-to-cost-efficiently-design-a-bolted-joint/

https://provenproductivity.com/use-ecosyn-plast-fasteners-to-improve-your-lighting-industry-application/


March 10, 2017
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Vibrational Loosening and Fastening Solutions

Vibrational Loosening

The environment your product is in is a huge factor in the success and sustainability of your project. Vibration is one factor that can cause your project to fail. This is because a bolted joint has the possibility of unintentional loosening or vibrational loosening that can cause fastener failure.

The good news is, we have anti-loosening and anti-vibration fastening solutions. Some of these solutions include: ecosyn®-fix screws, the Nord-Lock bolt securing system, and TufLok®. Check out the details on these product solutions below.

ecosyn®-fix screws
This screw is made to be shake and vibration resistant. ecosyn®-fix screws consist of a large washer that is integrated into the screw head. This surface is designed to help prevent unscrewing. These screws are used in many technical appliances and electrical equipment.

Nord-Lock bolt securing system
This securing system was designed to use tension to secure critical joints that are exposed to vibrations. The Nord-Lock bolt securing system blocks the rotation of the bolt/nut and maintains the clamp load. This can offer you a sense of safety and security on your bolted joints.

TufLok®
TufLok® is another solution for vibrational loosening. This is a system for thread locking and thread sealing fastened joints. This system uses an elastic, wear-resistant, blue nylon patch to seal and lock as fastener into place. This system is also resistant to many chemicals which makes it a great solution for many products.

Vibrational loosening is something you want to watch out for, but if you have the right fastening solutions, you don’t have to worry. We take pride in providing proven products to increase your productivity. If you have questions, contact us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com.


March 03, 2017
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Fastening Solutions for Automotive Applications

bigHead Bonding Fasteners

Fastening Solutions for Automotive Applications: bigHead Bonding Fasteners

When looking into a fastener, ultimately, you want one that is reliable, secure and it is efficient with your time. Solutions like bigHead have been developed to ensure you have a reliable fastener, even if it the situation isn’t as straightforward. Recently, there have been some changes in how the automotive industry has been building vehicles. These changes require better fastening solutions.

Changes in Building in the Automotive Industry

Like every industry, the automotive industry is always trying to improve the way they do things. For a while now, performance cars have used lightweight composite materials to improve performance in those vehicles.

Now, however, many high-end and luxury car manufacturers are looking to use those lighter materials as well. These luxury manufacturers want to reduce CO2 emissions, improve fuel efficiency and improve safety features. Decreasing the weight of these vehicles through composite materials will help achieve these ends.

To make this material change would mean to change production and assembly procedures. The only potential problem with this change is automakers finding the right fasteners to work with these composite materials, and a fastener that can keep up with quick assembly procedures. This is where bigHead comes in; these fasteners were designed to as a quick and easy solution for tough fastening applications.

Fastening Solutions like bigHead

bigHead has developed new production techniques to fit specifically with the changes in the automotive industry’s needs. The following are advantages of bigHead for the automotive industry.

  • bigHead fasteners can be securely and reliably bonded to CFRP panels with no special curing conditions.
  • Bonding times can be as little as 6 seconds or 15 seconds.
  • The results are completely invisible for the A-side panel with no holes or shadowing.
  • The bigHeads perforated head design allows adhesive to flow through the holes and firmly lock the fastener with high load distribution and excellent stability.
  • bigHead can be a highly precise application that doesn’t have to compromise the panel form or structural design.

These fastening solutions were created with automotive applications in mind. The needs of the automotive industry and automotive applications have been anticipated and bigHead provides the solutions. If you have questions about bigHead fastening solutions, reach out to us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com.


February 24, 2017
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Galling Definition: What is It and How to Prevent It

preventing galling with bossard

The galling definition is an interaction (usually negative) between two materials as they slide past each other. It is also known as cold welding which occurs frequently in mating threads of similar materials and surface conditions. Stainless steel fasteners are the most prone to galling but can also occur with aluminum and titanium as well.

Prevention of galling simply involves changing the surface condition of one of the mating components. If dealing with aluminum, changing the alloy of one of the components is sometimes enough. Hardening to create a difference in the mating surfaces is another option. Lubricants are also good deterrents of galling.

However, there are several ways in which you can prevent or minimize galling. Check out the infographic below for those solutions.

top coats for preventing galling

Take some time to think about preventing galling when you are assembling your next project. It will save you time, effort, and money in the long run. In order to find out more about preventing galling, contact us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com.


February 10, 2017
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