Fastener Technology International - December 2007/January 2008 - (Page 66)

QUALITY CHECKS ON RETAINING RINGS: YOUR RECIPE FOR SUCCESS John Hardee, Marketing Rotor Clip Company, Inc. www.rotorclip.com With all the recent news stories concerning quality mistakes from overseas and here at home, one may soon develop the opinion that an end product safely meeting the requirements of the consumer suddenly becomes a game of chance. During these days of automation and mass production, one expects an occasional fly to find its way into the soup, but more often than not, the consequences of such mistakes border on more than the mild frustration of being served a bug and his bath. Bearing this in mind, Rotor Clip (www.rotorclip.com) has taken the lead in alerting buyers of retaining rings —whether or not they are purchased from us—to the most easily discernable characteristics of quality. The concept of a quality ring, we believe, is no different than the concept of a quality soup. If all of the ingredients that go into making it meet or exceed your expectations, then one can be assured of a satisfactory product or, in this case, a great tasting soup. Flies will still happen, but if one brings a little foresight to the table, most will not be mistakenly swallowed. country of origin listed anywhere? It is a requirement that country of origin be displayed on the box or label; more importantly, you have a right to know where your rings were made. Thirdly, look for a lot number on the packaging label(s). Any supplier anywhere along the chain who will not make his product susceptible to lot traceability should be avoided. Lot traceability protects suppliers and distributors just as well as it protects manufacturing and raw material. If legal action is taken, chances are the easiest target will face litigation, and that may not always be those on the manufacturing side of the supply chain. Protect yourself and your customers—check that package. VISUAL INSPECTION OF PRODUCT As when an entrée is plated by a master chef—checked to ensure that the visual is just as perfect as the taste— the product should be removed from its packaging and visually inspected. Calibrated equipment may be necessary to verify certain standards, however many obvious quality issues are discernable using only the naked eye. Check for rust as metal fasteners are certainly not immune to oxidation, and they may have have passed their shelf-life and usefulness. The presence of rust is an indication that rings have passed their shelf life and should not be used. CHECK THE PACKAGE The first impressionable clue to a product’s quality is how it has been packaged. We’re not suggesting throwing aside every dirty box or botchy tape-job one comes across. Aesthetics are aesthetics. Quality is different. One should always check the level of information detailed on the packaging label. First, is it to your specified requirements? Secondly, is the 66 Fastener Focus December 2007 http://www.rotorclip.com http://www.rotorclip.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Fastener Technology International - December 2007/January 2008

Fastener Technology International - December 2007/January 2008 Contents Editorial Calendar Industry News 5S – Turbocharged Lean House Cleaning: Principles and Practices for Creating an Efficient Workspace Corporate News Mechanical Properties – Part 7: Strength & Ductility in Bending FTI Technical Achievement Awards — Class of 2007 The Heat Treatment of Fasteners — Practice Melt Shop Provides More Efficient Titanium Wire & Rod Production Spotlight On Simulation Comparing Preparation and Calibration Techniques for Ultrasonic Bolt Tension Measurement – Part 2 Future-Oriented Testing Equipment Wire Handling Roundup What’s Happening at the IFI? Product Showcases Machinery Product Showcases Quality Education & Training in 2008 Fastener Focus Quality Checks on Retaining Rings: Your Recipe for Success Straight From The Show: NIFS/WEST Spotlight on Plastic Fasteners Competence in Stainless Steel Pick More Orders in Less Time With Slotting New Fastener, Drive Systems & Insert Join a Proven Product Line ASTM Update on Fastener Test Methods – The Bolt Doctor Column Advertisers’ Index Classified Advertisements Editorial Index

Fastener Technology International - December 2007/January 2008

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