The following is a case study of a customer application of screws from Hanshin Neji (Thailand) Co.,Ltd. , a fasteners trading company that supplying the screws to Thai Forging Engineering Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as TFE), which is engaged in the hot forging of mechanical parts.
▲ Exterior view of Thai Forging Engineering Co., Ltd.
Thai Forging Engineering Co., Ltd. (TFE), founded in 1991, is a renowned manufacturer of mechanical parts offering forging services to industries such as agriculture, automotive, and construction. Beyond serving the domestic market in Thailand, TFE also extends its supply chain to international markets, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and various European nations.
Examples of main molded products
Iron products
・ Gear & Clutch : Gear Reverse, Gear Reverse Idler , Connecting Rod/Cap, Shift Fork
・ Hub unit : Shift, Outer ring
・ Propeller Shaft : Flange yoke, Tube yoke, Slip yoke, Spline yoke, Spline shaft, End shaft
・ CV Joint : Inboard & Out board
・ Engine : Bracket, Connecting Rod/Cap
Aluminum products
・Shock up
・Off-road accessories
TFE has achieved ISO 9001:2015 and IATF 16949:2016 certifications, affirming its status as a top-tier manufacturer of quality parts. The Quality Control (QC) department, play a crucial role in every stage of production from material inspection, machined parts and molds used in manufacturing process, and conducting final inspection of finished products inspection to ensure that only parts meeting the highest quality standards are delivered to customers.
▲ A scene of manufacturing process at TFE factory
Along with traceability system in every process, when problem or irregular event occurred, they can immediately investigate and take action at the source of the problem.
“Aluminum Hot Forging,” a new technology responding to growing demand of EV parts
TFE has taken a significant step to address the rising demand for electric vehicle (EV) components. By installing new machines and setting up operations in aluminum hot forging, TFE is well-positioned to serve the expanding EV market.
▲ Example of screw application at TFE factory
In the hot forging process, it is essential to securely tighten the clamps on the mold and machine due to the immense force will be applied during operation. The fastening screws used must be high tensile strength type, conforming to the standard, to guarantee a stable and efficient forging process.
Enhancing Reliability with Standard Fasteners: Tripling Mold Maintenance Cycles
Before the introduction of Hanshin Neji’s fasteners, TFE was encountered several fasteners issues such as loosing and breaking screw during machine operation. Leading to a reduction in product quality and an increase in maintenance time due to the instability of the fasteners.
■ Made of high-quality materials that meet the manufacturing standard
■ Necessary processes, such as thread rolling and quenching are needed to ensure that the screw will meet the requirements of manufacturing standard
⇒These requirements are in place to guarantee that only the most suitable fasteners will be used in the hot forging process, therefore to ensure the optimal performance and reliability.
The first meeting between TFE and Hanshin Neji took place at an exhibition at the BITEC in Thailand, at the exhibition where Hanshin Neji booth is located. At the time, TFE had concerns regarding fasteners issues, in response, Hanshin Neji promptly supplied technical data related to TFE’s specific requirements, accompanied by sample fasteners for trial. Following successful screw tests, a mutual trust in product quality created between TFE and Hanshin Neji. Consequently, Hanshin Neji’s screws applications are expanded across various manufacturing processes within TFE.
▲ Sample of 12.9 strength class socket cap screws used by TFE
An examination of the screw quality has led to reductions in labor costs and enhancements in work efficiency
The challenges faced by TFE originated from the substandard quality of screws utilized. Applying screws that failed to meet quality benchmarks resulted in damages such as thread breakage, which lead to issues including a reduced lifespan for screws and stop in the production line as well as the need of machinery repairs. After Hanshin Neji’s screws application, these quality-related issues were resolved, and screws lifespan increased up to three times. Moreover, TFE has achieved a reduction in work hours and labor expenses, as well as capability to forecast a comprehensive maintenance schedule.”
Additionally, providing high-quality screws with expedited delivery time along with technical consultant services, create one of Hanshin Neji core competencies. Fasteners are such small components, but they play significant roles that directly impact to product quality and production efficiency. Hanshin Neji is committed to ongoing resolution of fasteners-related issues in Thailand.
▲ Staff of TFE and Hanshin Neji (Thailand)
【Interview cooperation】
THAI FORGING ENGINEERING CO., LTD.
