When selecting equipment for fastener manufacturers, the core principle is one: 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 quantities of standard/non-standard parts.
For materials above M24 or alloy steel with significant deformation, a hot upsetting machine/red forging machine, or a large-scale cold upsetting machine (requiring extremely high tonnage and high cost) is required.
Difficulty and workstation: For complex parts with flanges, inner hole steps, and irregular closing, a multi-station cold heading machine is necessary; for simple symmetrical parts, a two-die four-punch or single-process machine is also sufficient.
Precision and mold life: Equipped with servo feeding, precision guide rods, carbide mold cores, etc., these are crucial especially when working with materials 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 or atmosphere-protected heat treatment furnace. Otherwise, issues such as cold heading cracking and uneven hardness can be quite troublesome.
Stainless steel/copper/aluminum: soft material selection, high risk of mold sticking, equipment needs to operate smoothly and have reliable ejection, preferably with automatic lubrication and mold cooling.
Pay attention to 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 production with minimal mold changes: Fully automated production line (automatic feeding + online inspection + counting and packaging) enhances OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).
For multiple varieties and small batches: priority should be given to quick changeover systems (SMED), program storage, and mold pre-adjustment mechanisms to reduce 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 tables.
For customers with automotive/rail transportation needs, it is necessary to consider MES/ERP integration and parameter traceability (pressure, travel, temperature, etc.). (Source: www.fasteningelement.com, compiled 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; 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)