Knowledge: OEM certification

Testing underpins the fastener supply chain, from the fastener manufacturer’s basic fastener product performance and specification tests to the end-user Design Engineer’s bolted joint test rig and product testing. But testing in isolation has little value for fastener manufacturers, distributors and downstream original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Design Engineers are increasingly integrating physical testing with software-based analysis to improve product safety and quality.

The Junker vibration test has become the standard for determining fasteners self-loosening behaviour under vibration. Testing procedures that reflect the real service conditions allow engineers to validate new bolted joints designs. If the purpose of testing is to certify fasteners to original equipment manufacturers (OEM) specifications or assess an insurance claim, ISO 16130, DIN 25201-4 […]

Producing fasteners that satisfy various standards is a “service qualifier” for fastener manufacturers. Every engineer in downstream original equipment manufacturer (OEM) end-users will assume that the fasteners they specify meet basic international standards. Increasingly, fastener manufacturers develop products to meet the specific performance characteristics laid down in their downstream customers’ standards and are creating their own benchmarks. Ensuring fastener manufacturers can deliver products meeting demanding ‘tested by me’ criteria requires innovative testing strategies and flexible, modular and affordable testing equipment to implement them.

A clear fastener testing strategy offers a wide range of benefits, from basic compliance to securing confidence from downstream original equipment manufacturer (OEM) customers. Astute fastener manufacturers can turn their investment in testing from being a cost to an opportunity to generate new sales and profits, particularly during periods when market demand for fasteners is depressed. An effective test strategy enables fastener manufacturers to continuously improve their products and to develop a source of competitive advantage. Key elements of a testing strategy are to identify and correctly brief a test laboratory on what tests to conduct, then interpreting the results to provide maximum return on investment.

The fortunes of the fastener sector correlate directly with its largest single consumer, the automotive industry. Motor vehicle production growth in turn offers growth opportunities for fastener manufacturers. But where can those opportunities be found? Despite the economic downturn, global motor vehicle production surpassed 80m vehicles in 2011, an increase of 3% when compared to […]