Quality Practices

The 5 Immediate Benefits of Smart Factory Logistics

5 benefits of smart factory logistics

Simply put, the better and smarter your factory is, the more you will succeed in the market. That is why we have developed Smart Factory logistics, to help you improve your factory and get it where it needs to be. Smart Factory Logistics will create agile production in a fraction of the amount of time to save you money. Still not sure? Check out the benefits you will see immediately below!

  1. Leaner Process – Your process will become leaner because you will save on order management and reduce material handling cost.
  2. Maximum Flexibility – Smart Factory Logistics Systems are designed to be compatible with different manufacturing environments and setups, so we can prioritize your needs and your operations.
  3. Increased Agility – We use advance embedded sensors technology to recognize your manufacturing demands. This allows us to respond quickly and accurately to fill your needs.
  4. Improved Predictability – Our ARIMS application software helps us to uncover patterns so we can serve you better in the long run.
  5. Proven Productivity – We are focused on execution and results. To improve those, we have value-stream-mapping methodology to show our productivity improvement.

Smart Factory Logistics will benefit your factory immediately. The proof is in the productivity, but signing up is up to you. Contact us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com to start the conversation.


August 12, 2016
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Smart Factory Logistics

Bossard's Smart Factory Logistics

We want your factory to be as good as it can be. Your competition is always evolving. Are you? These days it is important to optimize your production so you can have a leaner and smarter factory and we can help. Bossard has new Smart Factory Logistics that can give you a competitive edge.

The Bossard Smart Factory Logistics methodology will help you become the best possible factory. This methodology focuses on handling your key challenges in the best way possible. We help you tackle problems like reducing overall costs while boosting productivity, or keeping track of market developments that affect your production.

Smart Factory Logistics is a service for managing your B- and C- parts; it helps you uncover hidden potential for productivity improvement. The best part? Your requirements will help determine our system. We want to customize a system that is tailored to what you need.

This system will focus on your needs, but it will also give you five immediate benefits. These benefits are a leaner process, maximum operation flexibility, increased supply chain agility, improved predictability and proven productivity.

We have systems like the fully automated and flexible SmartBin that automates the ordering process and saves you time and effort. We also have the informative SmartLabel that has real-time information to optimize your C-part management.

With our Smart Factory Logistics methodology, we can give you a smooth and seamless supply chain performance. We can help you get an edge on the competition and best of all, we will customize the system to you.

With Bossard, you know it works. Contact Bossard at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com if you have any questions about our Smart Factory Logistics methodology and how we can help you.


July 08, 2016
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How Bossard SmartBin Can Save You Time & Money

Quality Department

In previous blog posts we’ve discussed Bossard SmartBin and how it can help with efficiency and convenience in your company. We’re bringing the subject up again because there’s another important aspect of this system to consider. Continue reading to learn about how Bossard SmartBin can save you both time and money.

At Bossard, we understand how valuable time and money really are. It’s our goal to help make your work flow as efficient as possible. That’s where Bossard SmartBin comes in.

But, just how is the SmartBin going to help save you time and money? Look at our list below:

  • continuous inventory monitoring by means of weight sensors
  • safe and reliable demand recognition
  • automatic ordering
  • automatic recognition of box refills
  • operate 24/7
  • inventory lists at the touch of a button
  • access to online platform (ARIMS)
  • transparent order and consumption statistics

These bins continuously monitor inventory with weight sensors. Once your stock gets to a certain level, it will automatically recognize that it’s ready for a refill and will go ahead and order. This maintenance-free program helps to enhance profitability by ensuring there are always products ready to be sold. However, it’s not just the profitability that is going to be enhanced. Since the SmartBin doesn’t need manual intervention, this saves employees time to work on core activities and help increase your efficiency.

Bossard Proven Productivity is dedicated to helping our customers through innovation and sharing our quality products. If you have further questions about the Bossard SmartBin and the SmartBin benefits, take a look at one of our additional blogs on the subject or email us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com.

June 10, 2016
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Importance of the Right Design

the right design

There are just so many things that go into a project, and each aspect serves an important role in the strength of the finished product. When it comes to design, the smallest details can potentially alter the performance of the structure. Will it withstand any type of weather? Will it fall apart after its first use? How much torque can it handle before it needs maintenance? These are just a few of the questions to answer while going through your design process.

One important factor to consider is where your structure or product will be and how it will be used. You will need to know what type of wear it needs to endure in order to know how to create a strong enough product. The design should set it up to be reliable and long-lasting.

When it comes to making decisions regarding materials and parts to use, choose carefully, and make sure to do your research! Look at the product descriptions and pay attention to what they were made to do. A key to proper design is to use the right combination of fasteners, nuts, bolts, and washers.

Fastener selection can be more difficult than it sounds. Remember to carefully compare the size, shape, weight, length, etc. to achieve the perfect design for a useful product or structure.

Here at Bossard, we use the term “Proven Productivity” to describe our commitment to providing our customers with the right tools and solutions to be as successful as possible. Whether it be design or installation, we are dedicated to helping you along the way.

We would love to answer any questions you have about design and fastener selection. Explore our website and check out our blog posts to learn more about engineering solutions and our company! Contact us any time at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com.


May 06, 2016
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Bossard Online Calculators

Bossard online converters

Bossard takes pride in living up to our “Proven Productivity” name, which is why we have made the design process even easier for you. It can be difficult to start a project when measurements aren’t all universal. Our calculators and converters are designed for engineers, technicians, designers and students involved in the development and assembly of bolted joint.

Here on our website, we have various free calculators and converters for you to take advantage of. There are even more if you create a username and password.
With our online converters, you can convert different units of measure to make your design process quick and easy. Check out our calculators on our website, Bossard.com, and be sure to download the Bossard Fastener Calculator in the App Store.

There are three calculators available to you through our website and app.

Cost Savings Calculator – You can calculate direct savings by reducing the number of different fasteners. Check out our blog on TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) and Fastening to learn more about the costs that go into engineering and producing fasteners.

Torque and Preload Calculator – It’s important to know the parameters to successfully work with screws and bolts. The calculations are essential in assembly and joints.

Thread Engagement Length Calculator – The proper design for nuts and bolts is crucial for successful results. Use this calculator to for concise measurements for through hole and blind hole fasteners.

Explore Bossard.com and find calculators for design and production, technical design, and online converters.

Trying to get the proper measurements for an upcoming project? Contact us anytime at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com with questions and concerns—we have you covered. We want to make sure our customers have the best experience with our products and services. For frequent updates and useful information about Bossard, please subscribe to our blog.


April 22, 2016
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Bossard Smartbin in 4 Steps

Bossard SmartBin

Bossard is dedicated to efficiency when it comes to delivering products. This includes the delivery methods of C-parts. Bossard’s SmartBins are specially developed to increase the efficiency of your production process. With this innovative resource, you are guaranteed the highest supply, yet reduced stock so you don’t have to store a ton of parts at once. We have broken down the Bossard SmartBin into four steps below.

  1. Storage
    The parts are stored as close to the point of use as possible. The bins are specially designed with weight sensors that are constantly monitoring the stock levels. With SmartBin mobile, you are provided a faster process, as SmartBins are portable and can be moved from different areas right up to the point of use. This storage element eliminates excessive motion, as your parts are right there near you!
  2. Data
    The data that the sensors (mentioned above) collect are sent directly to Bossard online where it is processed. A predetermined re-order point is input into the system and when that point is reached, a replenishment order is triggered and you get your inventory before you even realize it’s low. This continuous monitoring of inventory is made possible with its high-tech remote wireless connection.
  3. Quantity
    Bossard selects the required quantity and labels the material with the necessary customer information. As mentioned in the “data” step, it is collected online and the quantity is pre-determined.
  4. Forwarding
    Your parts are easy to identify as yours because of the labels that were created for each customer. The parts are forwarded to the point of use by Bossard or by the customer.

Bossard has combined efficiency and convenience to deliver our customers a reliable system that will keep their production process running smoothly, while increasing their profitability. We would like to hear your questions and concerns, so contact us anytime at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com. Be sure to subscribe to our blog to learn more about our company!


April 01, 2016
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Fastener Platings & Coatings

Coating fasteners

Keeping your fasteners in top working condition is important to maintaining their effectiveness. There are several reasons for coating fasteners. Listed below are the 4 primary reasons:

  1. To improve the appearance of the fastener
  2. To fight corrosion
  3. To reduce friction
  4. To reduce scatter in the amount of preload achieved for a given torque.

There are a variety of coatings and platings that can be used to prevent or delay corrosion in fasteners as well as enhance the physical appearance of the fastener. The following are some of the most common.

Zinc Electroplating: Zinc is by far the most common and economical type of plating used for steel fasteners. It is relatively inexpensive and can be applied in a broad range of thicknesses. The service life of zinc plating is a function of its thickness, exposure to conditions and post plating treatments such as top coats. The most common zinc thickness is 2 to 5 microns thick.

Mechanical Galvanizing: The major advantages of mechanical galvanizing is that the fasteners do not suffer the risk of hydrogen embrittlement because the process is carried out without the use of electricity as well as the lack of acid used in the preparation of the fastener. Mechanical galvanizing provides greater corrosion protection because of its thicker layers which can range from 8 to 20 microns. However, the thicker layers will cause gaging issues with smaller fasteners.

Zinc Nickel: This plating offers superior protection than zinc as well as being RoHS compliant. Thicknesses run between 5 to 10 microns which makes this a very good choice for smaller fasteners that require greater protection.

Deciding which would be most effective for you can be a little difficult. To learn more about fastener platings and coatings or to receive help in deciding which you should use, reach out to us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com. We would love to help you out.


March 25, 2016
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RoHS Basics

What is RoHS

All companies who deal with the European Union market are required to follow certain guidelines. These guidelines, known as RoHS and WEEE, are meant to keep the environment clean by banning certain substances that are known to be hazardous to the environment and pollute landfills. These materials can be dangerous in terms of occupational exposure during manufacturing and recycling.

What is RoHS? RoHS is an acronym for the Restriction of the use of Hazardous Substances. All applicable products in the EU market after July 1, 2006 must pass RoHS compliance.

What is WEEE? WEEE is an acronym for Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment. It mandates the treatment, recovery and recycling of electric and electronic equipment. All applicable products in the EU market after August 13, 2006 must pass WEEE compliance and carry the “Wheelie Bin” sticker.

In other words, RoHS makes sure products are safe from production to usage, and WEEE completes the process of safety for the environment by regulating the waste and recycling methods.

Here is the complete list of substances that are banned: lead, cadmium, polybrominated biphenyl (PBB), mercury, hexavalent chromium, and polybrominated biphenyl ether (PBDE) flame retardants—in electronic and electric equipment

In compliance of these regulations, Bossard has its own “declaration of compliance” where we outline the materials that are used in our products. Below is an example of the materials and substances we use in assurance that we fully comply with regulations set forth by the European Union.

Materials: Steel, stainless steel, non-ferrous metals, and plastics (except flame retardant products).

Coating: None, blue/white/clear zinc and zinc alloy plated, zinc flake coatings without chromium (flZnnc), and hot dip galvanization.

For more information about the basics of RoHS and WEEE, we encourage you to contact us anytime at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com.


February 26, 2016
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Bossard Fastener Expert Tools Box

Fastener Expert Tools

Bossard Fastener Expert Tools Box

Bossard is proud of its innovative technologies and ever growing engineering solutions, so we’re especially excited to announce our newest product for sale: the Fastener Expert Tools box.

This high-quality box contains:

  1. Over 60,000 2D and 3D CAD fastener drawings, including over 38,000 catalog parts and over 22,000 special parts. All of the software comes on a customized Bossard USB memory stick in the shape of a hex head cap screw.
  2. Unlimited access to Bossard engineering calculators and other expert resources; i.e. technical resources and white papers (given that the user registers to our website).
  3. An encyclopedia of fastening technology (i.e. latest Bossard T-section).
  4. A high quality Rotring/Bossard pencil.

We believe in doing the right thing from the beginning, so along with the items included in the box, you also get expert support and complete dedication from your friends here at Bossard if you run into an issue or have any questions.

The benefits of all this CAD data at your fingertips are extensive. The easy-to-use graphical user interface (in both English and German) makes for the best possible user experience. Having access to all this information in such a simplified place will both help simplify an engineer’s work and speed up the prototype design time.

There are no limits to your options – especially because there are unlimited number of downloads to any CAD systems with all different kinds of file formats available to ensure you can use it anywhere and anytime. An internet connection isn’t even needed to access the information and files. Once online, there is a simple online update feature provided to help stay on top.

If you have any questions about the Fastener Expert Tools box or are interested in purchasing one, please contact us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com. We’d love to discuss our new product further!


January 15, 2016
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Special Engineered Parts

engineered parts

Special Engineered Parts

Fastening solutions are often a critical piece of your product. This small piece can have a significant impact on your product, from functionality to design to durability.

So what happens when you can’t find the right fastening solution for your product?

The answer is simple: Bossard will create one.

Bossard works to develop and produce cost-effective solutions that are tailored to our individual customers’ needs. That means creating special engineered parts, including cold extruded parts, turned parts, milled parts, stamped parts and bent parts. Whatever our customers need.

Extrusion parts are produced in large batch sizes and will require special tools, and whether or not the part can be produced through the extrusion process depends on material, form, production tolerances and other performance targets.

Turned and milled parts are best suited for prototypes, and anything that requires high precision, tight tolerances and complicated forms.

Punched and bent parts are perfect for fastening elements, washers and other parts for machinery and equipment construction, from single parts to small and large batches.

Not to mention finishes and secondary operations on standard products or specialty items that can be used to address and/or accommodate special customer requirements.

For unparalleled competence, proven quality and unquestionable reliability, choose Bossard and our special engineered parts customized to fit your needs.

Interested in learning more about our special engineered parts? We’d love to discuss this further! Contact us at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com to get the conversation started.


January 11, 2016
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