AFT Fastener Distributors, Metal Stamping, Fabrication, Laser Cutting and Metal Finishing Experts will be Exhibiting at the AmCon Design and Manufacturing Expo in Detroit

AFT Fasteners and AFT Manufacturing will be exhibiting at the AmCon Expo on Tuesday, November 6th and Wednesday, November 7th. This year’s Design and Contract Manufacturing Expo will be held at the Suburban Collection Showplace, formerly known as the Rock Financial Showplace, at 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi, Michigan - near Detroit. AFT will be displaying in booth 323 on Tuesday from 9:30am-3:30pm and Wednesday from 9:30am-3:00pm.

AmCon Design and Contract Manufacturing Expos are a great way to see manufacturing's latest cutting-edge technologies from some of the finest local and national job shops and contract manufacturers. From prototype to production parts, your company will find sources for all your custom manufacturing needs. Meet AFT’s expert and courteous sales representatives for information on how AFT can provide a Business Solution for your company’s manufacturing and production needs.

Some great advantages of visiting an AmCon Expo are the abilities of comparing suppliers’ prices and quality, see professionals from numerous industries all under the same roof, get expert advice on difficult design and production issues, attend our FREE SEMINARS on applicable manufacturing processes, and best of all: ADMISSION and PARKING are FREE with pre-registration!

AFT Fasteners and AFT Manufacturing are professionally established fastener distribution, metal fabrication, stamping, manufacturing, plating and industrial services companies. “All-in-One”, the offer turn-key cost effective solutions to their customers. AFT also can supply high-quality standard, non-standard and specialty fasteners and hardware products. AFT serves customers with sales and distribution centers throughout the United States, so this allows them to provide expedited service and products with great lead times. Please visit them at booth 323 at the show or email AFT's professional sales staff at info(at)aft-com or call (877) 844-8595 for more information.

- The AFT Team

AFT Introduces Fasteners and Services Printable Brochure Resources

AFT Fasteners is pleased to announce our AFT Products and Services printable resource page. We invite you to visit us at this page for color printable brochures/flyers on some of our more popular fastener services and products - everything from Fasteners, MRO & Safety, Mil Spec, Manufacturing, Metal Finishing and Trailer Parts Industry Hardware...

These downloadable PDF files are by no means a complete list of our products but a nice resource for some of our clients and business partners. Please Contact Us for a fast and friendly quote for any of your fastener and industrial service needs - via Email or phone 469-865-2800.

- The AFT Team

Alloy Steel Socket Head Cap Screws are Now Being Offered in Zinc, Black Oxide, Silver and Other Finishes by AFT Fasteners

AFT Fasteners is increasing their inventory of socket head cap screws and other socket products to accommodate increasing demand for these safer, stronger and economical fasteners. To keep up with demand AFT is stocking a larger selection of sizes, head styles, finishes, US Imperial and Metric parts. AFT is also offering numerous materials such as different alloy grades and stainless steel socket head cap screws.

Socket head cap screws are used for applications with limited space. They have cylindrical head and internal wrenching features, mostly hexagon socket, that allow them to be used in locations where externally wrenched fasteners are not desirable. They are used for critical vehicle applications, machine tools, tools and dies, earth moving and mining machinery, and a wide range of engineering applications. The most important reasons for the increasing use of socket head cap screws in industry are safety, reliability and economy.
There are also many advantages of socket head cap screws over traditional screws. As compared to ordinary fasteners, less socket screws of the same size can achieve the same clamping force in a joint. As fewer screws are required for a given job, fewer holes are required to be drilled and tapped. There is weight reduction as fewer screws are used. There will also be a weight reduction on account of the smaller size of the component parts since the cylindrical heads of socket screws need less space than hex heads and require no additional wrench space. Another feature is that forged heat-treated alloy examples are high strength fasteners intended for the most demanding mechanical applications, with special alloy formulations available that are capable of maintaining strength at temperatures in excess of 1000 degrees F.
AFT Fasteners is a fastener manufacturing, importing, distribution, plating and industrial services company “All-in-One”, offering turn-key cost effective solutions to our customers. AFT also supplies high-quality standard, non-standard and specialty fasteners and hardware products. AFT serves customers with sales and distribution centers throughout the United States, and this allows them to provide expedited socket head cap screws and products. Please contact AFT's professional sales staff or call (877) 844-8595 for information on how AFT Fasteners can provide you with the highest quality socket products.

-- The AFT Team

Sheet Metal Fabrication and Stamping are Now Integral to AFT Manufacturer’s Services as Illini Metal Works of Illinois is Acquired by AFT Fasteners

AFT Industries has acquired the experience and capabilities of Illini Metal Works to add to their long list of quality services. It will be renamed AFT Manufacturing. Located in Taylorville, Illinois, Illini Metal Works has years of experience in sheet metal fabrication and stamping. Now joining with the capabilities of AFT Fasteners and Automated Finishing Technology, AFT Manufacturing’s sheet metal fabrication are a perfect fit into a tight group of companies that have the capabilities to produce high quality parts and products with experience based results.

In mid-August of this year AFT Fasteners added Illini Metal Works of Illinois to its holdings to become AFT Manufacturing. With the addition of this new partnership, AFT Fasteners now includes the ability of high quality sheet metal fabrication, stamping and forming. With a thorough knowledge of metal forming, aluminum and steel to stainless and alloy, AFT Manufacturing will be able to produce the highest quality products in the quickest possible turn-around time. Their skilled craftsmen employ specialized equipment to produce everything from single custom orders to high volume runs. AFT Manufacturing will be capable of producing precision fabrication of complex components to larger orders of super-sized products.

AFT Manufacturing believes in the philosophy of starting projects with professional engineering and design. Before any project begins there is a great deal of planning. Working from customers’ prints or their own professionally engineered designs, AFT Manufacturing helps customers with all of the production logistics. They also specialize in sheet metal fabrication which includes: stamping, cutting, welding, forming, shearing, finishing, painting, heat treating, sub assembly and final assembly. AFT Manufacturing is efficient at short run prototype runs or large quantity production runs.

AFT Manufacturing is part of a metal fabrication, stamping, manufacturing, importing, distribution, plating and industrial services company “All-in-One”, offering turn-key cost effective solutions to our customers. AFT also can supply high-quality standard, non-standard and specialty fasteners and hardware products. AFT serves customers with sales and distribution centers throughout the United States, so this allows them to provide expedited service and products . Please email AFT's professional sales staff at info@aft-com or call (877) 844-8595 for information on how AFT Manufacturing can provide companies with high quality metal fabrication, stamping and finishing.

- The AFT Team

Security Screws, Nuts and Drivers Selection at AFT Fasteners has Expanded

AFT Fasteners is pleased to promote a large selection of security fasteners, screws and products. Security fasteners, as the name indicates, are fasteners that provide an added level of security by their drive design that prevents removal with ordinary screw drivers. AFT distributes Tamperproof Screw Company products, and they are American made. We offer a variety of security fastener head-styles, drives and matching tools for their installation and removal. Screws are available in sheet metal and machine threads.

Tamper-Resistant Security Screws can save you thousands of dollars - by fighting off pilferage, tampering or unauthorized adjustments on scores of items. AFT offers Tamperproof Screw Company's complete line of corrosion-resistant security screws designed to prevent vandalism and theft, yet allow easy access by authorized personnel with matching tools. These screws are virtually impossible to remove without the special matching screwdrivers. Some examples of the types of screws available are:
• Snake Eyes Spanner
• Phillips Pin-Head
• Socket Pin-Head
• Torx® Pin-Head
• Tri-Wing ®
• Opsit Reverse Thread
• One-Way Slotted
• TP3 Security
• Spanner Nuts, Break-Away and Security Nuts
• Installation and Removal Tools
As well as screws, security and tamper resistant bolts and socket head cap screws are also available. AFT also has its own plating facility and can coat, spray or plate with many different applications - black oxide, silver, Xylan, etc.
AFT Fasteners is a fastener manufacturing, importing, distribution, plating and industrial services company “All-in-One”, offering turn-key cost effective solutions to our customers. AFT also supplies high-quality standard, non-standard and specialty fasteners and hardware products. AFT serves customers with sales and distribution centers throughout the United States, and this allows them to provide expedited security and tamper resistant fasteners. Please contact AFT's professional sales staff or call (877) 844-8595 for information on how AFT Fasteners can provide you with high quality tamper resistant fasteners.

AFT Fasteners Announces "International Solutions" Program to be Driven by Strong Experience in Global Sourcing, Importing and Exporting

Making U.S. companies competitive in today's International Markets is the goal behind AFT Fasteners recently unveiled “International Solutions” program. AFT has removed any roadblocks, answered any questions and helped its clients start sourcing parts. This program will be dedicated to helping small and large businesses alike find hard-to-find sources for manufactured parts and hardware.

 

      There are many advantages to sourcing international parts and hardware. Some include: Skilled Labor - foreign labor has become cheaper, reliable and more skilled than in the past; Resources - less expensive than domestic in many cases; New Aggressive Suppliers - emerging countries, markets and businesses compete for business at competitive rates to boost their economies. AFT's extensive global sources allows for a wide variety of products that range from hardware, electronic components and connectors, castings, plastics, injection molded parts, CNC machines parts, packaging, rubber, seals and more.
      The AFT International Solutions program also addresses the quality issue of imported goods and services. There are definite cost savings offered by global sourcing, but concerns about quality have made organizations hesitate. As part of the International Solutions program, AFT has developed an effective quality assurance program to ensure product quality and durability. Onsite manufacturer visits, comprehensive testing and the prototype approval process allows domestic companies the ability to set high standards which are standard and expected. Companies are avoiding the hassles of defective parts and unnecessary fights over quality certifications and take advantage of our independent testing laboratory. Technical Assistance and design engineering are available to provide assistance from prototype stage to production. Factories are ISO, QS or TS certified with the ability to provide PPAP’s, and MTR certs.
      Logistics also play a large part in AFT’s International Solutions program. AFT has established procedures and techniques for handling all of the logistics and customs services required to deliver products from the factory to customers’ doors. There is no longer a need to devote precious factory room housing bulky pallets of materials. The International Solutions program provides warehouse capabilities and supplies components as customers need them. Another “Solutions” service popular with AFT clients is offshore consolidation of shipments to ensure that materials are shipped together in dedicated containers. Critical items can be dual sourced both domestic and import to avoid interruption of supply and maintain a low risk supply chain. AFT also holds a buffer stock in our domestic warehouse if needed.
      AFT Fasteners is a fastener manufacturing, importing, distribution, plating and industrial services company “All-in-One”, offering turn-key cost effective solutions to our customers. AFT also supplies high-quality standard, non-standard and specialty fasteners and hardware products. AFT serves customers with sales and distribution centers throughout the United States, and this allows them to provide expedited domestic or global sourcing. Please contact AFT's professional sales staff at info@aft-corp.com or call (469) 865-2800 for information on how AFT Fasteners can provide your business with a successful International Solutions program.

- AFT Team

AFT Fasteners Provides All-Thread Rod that Meets ASTM Standards for B7, Low Carbon, Zinc Plated, Hot Dipped Galvanized, and Stainless Steel Threaded Rod

AFT Fasteners carries a large line-up of Threaded Rod, also known as “All-Thread Rod”. ASTM standards can easily be met by AFT Fasteners for petroleum applications, construction, fabrication, electrical and consumer product manufacturing. Standard and non-standard sizes, course or fine threads and most industry desired platings and coatings are readily available from global solutions providers - AFT Fasteners.

   

     Threaded rod is a widely used and very versatile product. It is generally used in several industries, including chemical, electrical, construction, agricultural, maintenance and even home use. All-thread rod eliminates the need for such on site resources as threading equipment, dies, and most importantly time. It is produced with threads rolled under high pressure to give greater strength and can be used with standard nuts and washers. Generally the rod can be cut with a metal cutting hack saw or a power band saw, and with clean saw cuts the nut will move easily over the threads. Rougher cutting devices may require chamfering to bevel the ends for ease of threading washers and nuts. AFT Fasteners provides threaded rod in standard 36" lengths, as well as specialty length which are cut to request.
     Grades of all-thread rod vary, and the most common grades include: ASTM A193 - B7 Alloy, Low Carbon Steel, Zinc Plated, Hot Dipped Galvanized, 18-8 Stainless Steel and 316 Stainless Steel. The most common is ASTM A193 B7 Studs and Rods. This grade has a tensile strength of 125,000 psi and is a heat treated alloy. It is generally used in applications where strength or high strength to weight ratio is required. This grade is a favorite for petroleum and oil field industries, and B7 is widely used in commercial plant applications and new construction projects for pipe and machinery installation and maintenance. The stainless steel grades of threaded rod are used when excellent corrosion resistance and strength are required. Used primarily in chemical, food, mechanical, agricultural and medical applications. With an in-house plating and coating facility, Xylan and other popular threaded rod coatings are very affordable!

     AFT Fasteners is a fastener manufacturing, importing, distribution, plating and industrial services company “All-in-One”, offering turn-key cost effective solutions to our customers. AFT also supplies high-quality standard, non-standard and specialty fasteners and hardware products. AFT serves customers with sales and distribution centers throughout the United States, and this allows them to provide expedited all-thread rod and other heavy duty fasteners. Please contact AFT's professional sales staff or call (877) 844-8595 for information on how AFT Fasteners can provide you with high quality B7 stud and threaded rod.

Stainless Steel Fasteners, Stainless Steel Bolts, Stainless Steel Nuts - Where Does It All Come From? AFT Fasteners has the Solution

      Stainless steel fasteners, stainless steel bolts, stainless steel screws, stainless steel nuts, stainless steel cap screws....The list is just too long to mention. Even the St. Louis's Gateway Arch is covered in stainless steel. What is the reason that this lustrous metal has become a staple of American and worldwide manufacturing?? It's obvious from the name: STAINLESS STEEL.

     Stainless Steel differs from carbon steel by the amount of chromium present. Unprotected carbon steel rusts readily when exposed to air and moisture. Stainless steels contain sufficient chromium to form a passive film of chromium oxide, which prevents further surface corrosion and blocks corrosion from spreading into the metal's internal structure. Instead of making you READ about the miracle properties and applications of stainless steel, we at AFT Fasteners have decided to share a great little video about the production of stainless steel and its manufacturing process. Relax and enjoy!!

"How It's Made" - Stainless Steel

     Now that we all have a good grasp on how stainless steel is created, we can get down to REAL WORLD applications. AFT Fasteners has been in business for decades - providing stainless steel hardware of all types and sizes. AFT specializes in offering a variety of 18-8, 304 and 316 stainless steels for numerous industries. Everything from aerospace, construction, auto and marine manufacturing and the list goes on and on and on.
     AFT Fasteners offers not just stainless steel but SOLUTIONS to your manufacturing projects and processes - inventory, machining, kitting and global sourcing for everything from crates to mill shipments. Contact our knowledgeable and friendly sales staff at 469-865-2800 for a quote on a solution for your stainless steel needs.



- The AFT Team

Nuts, Bolts and Fasteners are at the top of the AFT Top Selling List

Bolt: A fastener consisting of a threaded pin or rod with a head at one end, designed to be inserted through holes in assembled parts and secured by a mated nut that is tightened by applying torque. There are many types of Bolts and here are just a few that AFT carries: Structural Bolts, Carriage Bolts, Elevator Bolts, Flange Bolts, Foundation Bolts, Grade 5 & 8 Bolts, Hex Cap Screws, Lag Bolts, Plow Bolts, Square Head Bolts, Tap Bolts and Tension Bolts.

Ever wonder how steel nuts and bolts are made. Well, here at AFT Fasteners we believe that a good working knowledge is power and wanted to share this video from the Discovery Channel to provide a little bit of that power.

 

Bolts can be made from nearly any metal, but steel in many different hardnesses and finishes are the most common.

AFT Fasteners is a fastener manufacturing, importing, distribution, plating and industrial services company “All-in-One”, offering turn-key cost effective solutions to customers. AFT supplies high-quality standard, non-standard and specialty fasteners and hardware products. AFT serves customers with sales and distribution centers throughout the United States, and this provides expedited domestic or global sourcing. Please contact AFT's professional sales staff at info@aft-corp.com or call (469) 865-2800 for information on how AFT Fasteners can provide businesses with high quality electronic hardware solutions.

-- The AFT Team

MRO or Maintenance, Repair and Operations Supplies are Becoming the “Unsung Heroes” of AFT Fastener’s Product Line-Up

MRO supplies are the “behind the scenes” heroes of modern production facilities. Most attention is placed upon the final product; however, without MRO supplies like safety equipment, repair tools, lubricants, compressors and pumps then the final products would never make it to market. AFT Fasteners is now offering a complete line of MRO supplies from vendors such as 3M, Dewalt, MCR Safety, Greenlee, Dixon, Precision Brand, Kimberly Clark and many more.

http://www.aftfasteners.com/MRO-Safety

 

      Maintenance, Repair, Operations (MRO) items are supplies consumed in the production process but which do not either become part of the end product or are not central to the firm's output. MRO items include consumables, industrial equipment, plant upkeep supplies and even computer equipment. These types of items range from safety equipment, cleaning materials, laboratory and office supplies, compressors, pumps, valves, gaskets, lubricants, repair tools, and even computer equipment and supplies.

      The economics of ordering MRO materials and the decisions on how to save money by consolidating the vendors involved in this order process is an ongoing science. For 2012, AFT Fasteners has dedicated copious resources to the science of saving businesses money. By consolidating the MRO shopping process into a “One Stop Shop”, AFT Fasteners has allowed MRO purchasers to save time. The goal is to provide the most comprehensive vendor line-up in the world of MRO supplies. There are numerous factors in deciding upon an MRO provider and one of the most critical is the availability of products and the “speed of delivery”.

      Availability and “speed of delivery” are greatly increased by AFT Fastener’s ability to drop ship items from 19 locations in the United States. Just a few of these new locations for 2012 include Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Grand Rapids, Harrisburg, Houston, Los Angeles, St. Paul, Orlando, Pittsburgh and Portland. These warehouses contain over 60,000 individual SKU items for maximum availability and rapid delivery. Now you can order an item from your location and not worry about it being organized and shipped from across the United States. These efficient and clean warehouses offer JIT ordering and help keep your company’s inventory right where it needs to be.

      As the new year progresses AFT Fasteners will be analyzing companies’ needs and what items they order to make sure that the most popular MRO and Safety Supply items are maintained for production and manufacturing needs. AFT Fasteners is a global provider for fasteners, metal plating, industrial components, petrochemical hardware, kitting and warehousing services. If your company needs a resource for these services or has any questions about industrial solutions, then please contact AFT Fasteners online or call toll free at 469-865-2800.

 

-- The AFT Team

Kitting Services, Inventory Control, Warehousing and Fastener Modification-Fabrication Have Been Added to the Core of AFT Fasteners’ Business

Consolidation of services and production processes are at the heart of successful manufacturing. AFT Fasteners understands this and offers solutions to customers that allow the customers to focus on other aspects of doing business - like getting more business.

 

      AFT Fasteners’ customized products and programs have now been made available to domestic and international customers to lower their material, labor, inventory, storage and fabrication costs. AFT Fasteners has increased their warehouse spaces, increased inventory control capabilities and added more warehouse personnel experienced in today’s high-tech management systems. Other production services that AFT’s customers benefit from are hardware kitting and fastener modification, fabrication and plating.
      Warehousing and inventory services are implementations that improve shipping as well as inventory costs and price control. Automated systems like JIT, KanBan, VMI and EDI offer inventory counts and ordering times for needed parts without the potential for manual mistakes. AFT is offering solutions for customers who need their specialty parts imported, modified, plated and then stored in a safe, secure warehouse environment.
      Manufacturers are often unaware of the benefits of having “kitted” parts and hardware. Benefits afforded to those who use kitting services are easy ordering of parts with one “kit” number versus multiple part numbers. Invoicing is also easier because of the fewer part numbers and tracking requirements. Production is improved since all of the pre-approved parts are in one assembly location. Waste is also reduced since the parts are packed together instead of individual wrappings. Parts costs are lowered as well, due to the ability to order in bulk and package accordingly.
      AFT Fasteners also does hardware modification and fabrication. Just a few of the most common procedures include: fastener drilling, cutting, end slotting and thread locking. These capabilities, along with an in-house metal plating and coating facility, provide a one-stop production capability that few solutions providers offer. Visit www.aftfasteners.com, call 877-844-8595 or feel free to use our "Contact Us" form for more information.


-- The AFT Team

Dry Film Lube, Xylan® and Wet Paint Facility Acquired by AFT to Service Global Customers

     Automated Finishing Technologies, known for their high quality metal plating and coating operations, has added a new Dry Film Lube, Xylan® and Wet Paint facility. Located in Arlington Texas, this operation is located near the global shipping hub of Dallas, Texas. AFT globally provides a wide variety of fasteners with the most desired electro-plating, Xylan® and dry film coatings to meet the most stringent industry specifications.

 



     In recent years AFT, Automated Finishing Technology, has grown from a small North Texas business to an international importer/exporter of quality standard and non-standard fasteners, mechanical components and manufacturing industry services. One of their most recent acquisitions is a dry film lube and Xylan® coating facility located in Arlington, Texas. Proven business practices and management models have already lifted the local business to the international stage in the electroplating and fastener distribution fields.
     AFT has already started enjoying great success with this new facility by quickly establishing a diverse customer base. These customers are receiving excellent coated products to meet their wide diversity of manufacturing needs and specifications. Dry film lubricants start out as high performance, paint-like coatings consisting of fine particles of lubricating pigments blended with a binder and special additives. After application and proper curing, these lubricants bond to the surface of the ware, and form a solid film, which reduces friction, and greatly increases wear life. Many dry film lubricants also contain special rust inhibitors which offer exceptional corrosion protection in harsh environments. Dry film lubricants contain special pigments that reduce friction and wear by preventing surface-to-surface contact between mating parts (i.e., a shaft and its bearings). Performance properties vary depending on the specific lubricating pigment used. Some offer excellent lubrication and corrosion protection, while others operate at high temperatures. Some are formulated for use in extreme environments and can withstand nuclear radiation. A few applications of dry film uses are: parts usage in corrosive atmospheres, protection for stored parts, parts requiring permanent lubrication, parts subject to frequent disassembly, fretting and galling protection and ease of release assistance.
      Xylan® and wet paint applications can also be matched to a wide diversity of colors and specifications. Xylan® is the umbrella trademark for most of the Whitford fluoropolymer coatings line. Xylan® is comprised of low friction, wear resistant composites of fluoropolymers and reinforcing binder resins. There is a wide range of Xylan® coatings available in one, two, and three coat conventional and reinforced non-sticks. The fluoropolymers utilized in Xylan® coatings consist of PTFE, PFA, and FEP.
      Automated Finishing Technologies has years of experience in fastener and parts electro-plating and metal coatings and specialize in black oxide, copper, e-nickel, silver, zinc, zinc phosphate, cadmium and more. AFT also is related to AFT Fasteners which provides high quality fasteners, components, inventory control, kitting services and fastener manufacturing and modifications. These companies are no strangers to meeting the most stringent manufacturing specifications. For more information regarding metal plating, Xylan® and other coatings – visit www.aftfasteners.com, call 469-865-2800 or feel free to use our "Contact Us" form.

 - AFT Team

Self Clinching Fasteners by TR Fastenings to be Distributed in the United States by AFT Fasteners

TR Fastenings, the manufacturer of TR Hank® Self Clinch Fasteners, is expanding into the US market. They are pleased to announce that AFT Fasteners, based out of Texas, will be one of their United States distributors for their wide range of self-clinching fastener products.

     TR Fastenings was founded by Mike Timms and Mike Roberts in the United Kingdom in 1973. The TR Hank® Self Clinch Fasteners brand was established in 1988 and has since grown to be globally distributed for industries that range from mobile phone manufacturing to aircraft manufacturers. Self clinch fasteners are widely used as a fastening product when manufacturing thin sheet metal intensive products. These fasteners provide strong threads in sheet metals, require no “tapping” and provide high push-out and torque resistance. These are fasteners that are excellent when the manufacturing process does not provide easy access to the gripping side of a fastening point.
     AFT Fasteners is already a trusted international source for numerous products, and they are excited to add these internationally certified self-clinching products to their expansive line up. This partnership creates a global force to compete against manufacturers like Captive Fastener Corporation and Penn Engineering. With a focus on product quality and availability, AFT and TR Fastenings will provide a wide variety of high quality, self-clinching fasteners at a competitive price. Visit http://www.aftfasteners.com, call 877-844-8595 or feel free to use our "Contact Us" form for more information.


- AFT Team

Cable Ties, Heat Shrink Tubing, Mounting Products and Cable Tie Express’s High Quality Inventory to be Distributed by AFT Fasteners

     AFT Fasteners is proud to be a part of the Cable Tie Express distribution network. These products are high quality UL recognized and ISO certified to meet or exceed customers’ satisfaction and expectations. AFT was founded in 1984 and since then has become a distributor of global products ranging from fasteners of all types, petrochemical hardware, MRO and safety supplies, industrial services such as kitting, inventory and warehousing systems.

     Cable Tie Express announces the addition of AFT Fasteners to its distribution and dealer network. These companies are setting the standard in customer satisfaction and confidence, as a prime source for standard and specialty cable ties, heat shrink tubing, mounting products, cable clamps, wire connectors, and installation tools.  Non-standard items and to-print specials are other needs they fulfill on a daily basis. Cable Tie Express continues to seek and add specialized products to its product offering to provide customers with additional solutions to meet all of their wire management requirements. AFT Fasteners stands by the Cable Tie Express motto: “Tying Service to Quality”. Cable Tie Express has a strong commitment to their mission statement which includes maintaining a varied and competitive product line, highest quality standards, unparalleled customer service and fanatical product knowledge.

AFT Fasteners is thrilled to offer cable ties, mounting hardware, heat shrink tubing and other mounting products offered by Cable Tie Express. Visit www.aftfasteners.com, call 877-844-8595 or feel free to use our "Contact Us" form for more information.

- AFT Team

Stainless Steel Fasteners Galling or Seizing

We have a problem when tightening stainless steel bolts - they tend to seize - what's happening?     Stainless steel can unpredictably sustain galling (cold welding). Stainless steel self-generates an oxide surface film for corrosion protection. During fastener tightening, as pressure builds between the contacting and sliding, thread surfaces, protective oxides are broken, possibly wiped off, and interface metal high points shear or lock together. This cumulative clogging-shearing-locking action causes increasing adhesion. In the extreme, galling leads to seizing - the actual freezing together of the threads. If tightening is continued, the fastener can be twisted off or its threads ripped out.

If galling is occurring because of high friction the torque will not be converted into bolt preload. This may be the cause of the problems that you are experiencing. The change may be due to the surface roughness changing on the threads or other similar minor change. To overcome the problem - suggestions are:
1. Slowing down the installation RPM speed may possibly solve or reduce the frequency of the problem. As the installation RPM increases, the heat generated during tightening increases. As the heat increases, so does the tendency for the occurrence of thread galling.
2. Lubricating the internal and/or external threads frequently can eliminate thread galling. The lubricants usually contain substantial amounts of molybdenum disulfide (moly). Some extreme pressure waxes can also be effective. Be careful however, if you use the stainless steel fasteners in food related applications some lubricants may be unacceptable. Lubricants can be applied at the point of assembly or pre-applied as a batch process similar to plating. Several chemical companies, such as Moly-Kote, offer anti-galling lubricants.
3. Different combinations of nut and bolt materials can assist in reducing or even eliminating galling. Some organizations specify a different material, such as aluminum bronze nuts. However this can introduce a corrosion problem since aluminum bronze is anodic to stainless steel.

If you have questions about stainless steel or other fasteners, please contact us at AFT Fasteners (877) 844-8595 or via email Contact Us.

Petrochemical Hardware Suppliers in Texas, Houston & Dallas - AFT

 

     AFT Industries provides a wide variety of products and supplies for the Petroleum and Oil Field Industries. AFT is excited to announce that we now have offices in Dallas / Fort Worth as well as our new office in Houston, Texas. On the international stage of petroleum refinery and production, Houston stands on top of the industry that literally drives the world. We have expanded our services to an even broader geographical base of clients that drill, refine and transport petroleum based products all over the United States.
      Most hardware for this industry requires heavy duty components with larger sizes, higher safety specifications, higher operating tolerances and guaranteed longer life expectancies. Some of the premium petrochemical hardware that AFT Industries provides are:

• Studs and Bolts - petrochemical grades, stainless steel grades, exotic alloys: (nickel, brass, bronze, titanium), all threaded rod, low carbon studs, heavy hex bolts
• Nuts - heavy hex, all materials and grades, industrial electroplatings and specialty coatings

• Flanges - lap joint, welding neck, slip on, socket weld and threaded

• Pipes, Valves and Fittings - brass, steel, forged steel, stainless steel, CPVC, PVC, iron, and fittings for all purposes
• Gaskets - spiral wound, Flexitallic, composite materials/fibers and matching industrial sets

• Washers - all types of finishes and metal materials
• Special Platings & Coatings - Xylan, Teflon, Cadmium, E-Nickel, Zinc, Zinc Nickel, Nickel, Phosphate & more

• Cutting & Safety Equipment - personal wear, coco mats, escape chairs, welding helmets, welding supplies, leak detectors, saws, saw blades, circular safety blades and more.

     At AFT Industries the mission statement is simple: Provide our Customers with what they need to Succeed! We strive to accomplish this mission every day in a timely manner that allows your business to be as successful and profitable as possible.

Next time your company needs Petroleum and Oil Field hardware or supplies, do not hesitate to contact us at Info@Aft-Corp.com or call toll free 877-844-8595.


- The AFT Team

AFT Fasteners Builds a Foundation for Global Success

     Going from a local metal plating company to an international success in the fastener distribution market takes a passion for success. AFT Industries has been a quality provider of metal plating, fastener importing-distribution, and industrial services for more than a decade now. Providing customers with a cost effective and profitable partnership has been the driving force behind their success. It is with great pride that they are announcing a broad expansion of services for the future.
     Recent events include the acquisition of a large distribution center in the heart of Dallas and Fort Worth’s shipping community. This modern facility provides a great hub for global sourcing, timely shipping-receiving, inventory warehousing and a great environment for dedicated employees and staff to do business. New facilities were then added to increase capacities in metal plating, wet paint, dry film lube and Xylan® coatings. To further meet customers’ needs, AFT has amplified a global internet presence and global marketing strategy, making communications and requests for fastener pricing and availability easier than ever. Visit www.aftfasteners.com and take a virtual stroll through this user friendly web experience.
      AFT announces specialized sales departments to cater to high-tech clients with needs in the electronic hardware, MIL-Spec/Aerospace, and industrial services arenas. Dedicated departments provide detail oriented hardware kitting services, fastener modifications, and industry targeted customer specifications. AFT also has recently opened a sales and support department in the greater Houston area. Look for their appearance at the Southwest Design2Part trade show, to be held at the Reliant Center on November 16th and 17th, 2011.
      Maintaining profitable business relations in these economic times takes an attention to detail and dedication to customer satisfaction, now more than ever before. AFT's expansion shows that being a dedicated, reliable and "forward thinking" solutions provider can be done and done right.

“Meeting a customer’s needs is our number one goal, whether it is an everyday fastener request or a specialized international shipment. Satisfaction and building reliable relationships are AFT’s primary objectives.” – Johnny Rose, President

Bolt Head Markings and Indentification - AFT Fasteners

      Usually fastener standards specify two types of marks to be on the head of a bolt. The manufacturer's mark is a symbol identifying the manufacturer (or importer). This is the organization that accepts the responsibility that the fastener meets specified requirements. The "Grade Mark" is a standardized mark that identifies the material properties that the fastener meets. For example 307A on a bolt head indicates that the fastener properties conform to the ASTM A307 Grade A standard.

     Both marks are usually located on the top of the bolt head, most standards indicating that the marks can be raised or depressed. Raised marks are usually preferred by manufacturers because these can only be added during the forging process whereas depressed marks can subsequently be added (possibly with illegitimate marks).

     The below listed Table is a listing of some of the more common Bolt Head Markings. If you have questions about a bolt head marking or specification, do not hesitate to Contact Us via our electronic form or call us at 877-844-8595.

Hex Bolt Head Markings

SAE Bolt Designations SAE Grade No. Size Range Tensile strength, ksi Material Head Marking 1 2 1/4" thru 1 1/2" 1/4" thru 3/4" 7/8" thru 1 1/2" 60 74 60 Low or medium carbon steel 5 1/4" thru 1" 1 1/8" thru 1 1/2" 120 105 Medium Carbon Steel, quenched & tempered 5.2 1/4" thru 1" 120 Low carbon martensite steel, quenched & tempered 7 1/4" thru 1 1/2" 133 Medium carbon alloy steel, quenched & tempered 8 1/4" thru 1 1/2" 150 Medium carbon alloy steel, quenched & tempered 8.2 1/4" thru 1" 150 Low carbon martensite steel, quenched & tempered

ASTM Bolt Designations ASTM Standard Size Range Tensile strength, ksi Material Head Marking A307 1/4" thru 4" 60 Low Carbon Steel A325 Type 1 1/2" thru 1" 1 1/8" thru 1 1/2" 120 105 Medium carbon steel, quenched & tempered A325 Type 2 1/2" thru 1" 1 1/8" thru 1 1/2" 120 105 Low carbon martensite steel, quenched & tempered A325 Type 3 1/2" thru 1" 1 1/8" thru 1 1/2" 120 105 Weathering steel, quenched & tempered A449 1/4" thru 1" 1 1/8" thru 1 1/2" 1 3/4" thru 3" 120 105 90 Medium carbon steel, quenched & tempered A490 Type 1 1/4" thru 1 1/2" 150 Alloy steel, quenched & tempered A490 Type 3 1/4" thru 1 1/2" 150 Weathering steel, quenched & tempered

     Often one will find "extra" marks on a bolt head--marks in addition to those shown above. Usually these marks indicate the bolt's manufacturer.

     ASTM A325 Type 2 bolts have been discontinued, but are included above because they can be found in existing structures. Their properties can be important in failure investigations.

    While the bolts shown above are among the most common in the U.S., the list is far from exhaustive. In addition to the other bolts covered by the SAE and ASTM standards, there are a host of international standards, of which ISO is perhaps the most well known.

-The Fastener Team