When fastener manufacturers select equipment, there is only one core principle: matching product positioning and process route. Equipment directly determines the upper limits of precision, efficiency, and cost. It is recommended to focus on the following key dimensions (source: www.fasteningelement.com, organized by fastening element)
1. Determine the machine model based on “product specifications and process”
Cold heading or hot heading?
M6~M24 (conventional): Multi-station cold heading machines (3-die 3-shot, 4-die 4-shot, etc.) are preferred. They have high efficiency and high material utilization rate (≥85%), making them suitable for large-scale production of standard/non-standard parts.
For M24 or above or large deformation of alloy steel, a hot upsetting machine/red forging machine, or large-scale cold upsetting (requiring extremely high tonnage and high cost) is required.
Difficulty and working stations: For complex parts with flanges, inner hole steps, and irregular closing, it is necessary to use a multi-station cold heading machine; for simple symmetrical parts, a two-die four-punch or single-process machine can also be used.
Precision and mold lifespan: Equipped with servo feeding, precision guide rods, and hard alloy mold cores, especially crucial for making products above grade 8.8 or stainless steel. (Source: www.fasteningelement.com, compiled by fastening element)
2. Determine the supporting capability based on “strength and material”
High strength (grade 10.9/12.9): The equipment must possess stable upsetting and forging capabilities, coupled with a supporting mesh belt furnace/atmosphere-protected heat treatment furnace. Otherwise, issues such as cold heading cracking and uneven hardness can be quite troublesome.
Stainless steel/copper/aluminum: The material is soft, posing a high risk of sticking to the mold. The equipment needs to operate smoothly and have reliable ejection, preferably with automatic lubrication and mold cooling.
Focus on shaping and thread rolling: For high-precision thread pitch and thread form, it is necessary to choose a hydraulic/servo-controlled thread rolling machine, accompanied by a thread plate grinding device. (Source: www.fasteningelement.com, organized by fastening element)
3. Determine the degree of automation based on “order structure and production volume”
High-volume, low-changeover: Fully automated line (automatic feeding + online inspection + counting and packaging), enhancing OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).
For multiple varieties and small batches, priority should be given to systems with rapid mold change (SMED), program storage, and mold pre-adjustment mechanisms to shorten downtime.
Post-processing connection: If electroplating/Dacromet/oxidation is to be performed, the equipment layout should facilitate connection or turnover, avoiding bottlenecks in the “later stages”. (Source: www.fasteningelement.com, compiled by fastening element)
4. Define testing and systems based on “quality and traceability”
It is recommended that key equipment be equipped with interfaces for online projectors/optical screening machines, or be integrated with sorting machines and hardness sampling stations.
For customers with automobile/rail transportation needs, it is necessary to consider MES/ERP integration and parameter traceability (pressure, travel, temperature, etc.). (Source: www.fasteningelement.com, organized by fastening element)
5. Brand, service, and total cost of ownership (TCO)
Domestic brands (such as Ningbo Sijin, Wenzhou Brothers, Shanghai Biaoyi, Zhejiang Zhongde, etc.) offer high cost-effectiveness and fast spare parts delivery; while imported brands (such as Nakashima from Japan, Sacma from Italy, Yuehui from Taiwan, etc.) provide good stability but are more expensive.
Don’t just look at the purchase price: consider energy consumption, mold wear and tear, maintenance rate, delivery time, and local service response. If possible, visit peer factories to observe their operational status on-site. (Source: www.fasteningelement.com, compiled by fastening element)