Bolt torqueing and tensioning

The collaboration between Bolt Engineering and Distributors (B.E.D.) and Bolt Torque brings premier service, cutting-edge technology, and nationwide support in bolt torqueing and tensioning to companies in different industrial sectors. 

When mining companies are planning capex purchases, bolting and tensioning may be viewed as the smallest priority. Yet these pivotal practices have significant implications for productivity and safety. Downtime due to bolting or torqueing failures – including incorrectly calibrated tools – can translate into financial loss, and accidents result in potential breaches of safety regulations and even potential loss of life. As currently production is peaking in African mining, this can prove very costly from a financial and human resources perspective.

Perfectly timed

So, the pre-2024 Electra Mining announcement of the collaboration between Bolting and Engineering Distributors (B.E.D.) and Bolt Torque could not have been more perfectly timed. The collaboration increases B.E.D.’s capacity to meet the safety and quality requirements from mining companies, reinforcing its position as a leader in the market.

Significantly, the collaboration strengthens B.E.D.’s well-established fastener product portfolio by integrating Bolt Torque’s advanced torque tensioning technology and expertise. “This collaboration allows us to offer a more robust suite of products and services, including state-of-the-art equipment for precise bolt torqueing and tensioning and the requisite annual tool calibration, which is crucial for demanding mining conditions,” explains Mike Giltrow, CEO of B.E.D., illustrating B.E.D.’s knack of establishing lasting and productive partnerships with reputable suppliers.

Rigorous supplier selection

While B.E.D. is known for the slogan and ethos of ensuring ‘the perfect fit fast’, it applies a rigorous process in supplier selection. The company thoroughly assesses potential suppliers based on their technological innovation, global and local market reputation, and ability to meet its high standards of product quality and reliability. This ensures that the preferred supplier fits with B.E.D.’s operational ethos and strategic vision.

B.E.D.’s and Bolt Torque’s industry track record

Thus, when looking for a suitable supplier to enable it to offer comprehensive turnkey torqueing and tensioning solutions,  B.E.D. selected Bolt Torque: “Bolt Torque’s proven industry track record, sound business ethos, and complementary expertise in bolt torqueing and tensioning solutions align perfectly and synergistically with our operational expertise, organisational ethos and strategy,” enthuses  Giltrow.

From Bolt Torque’s perspective, Angus Houston, Bolt Torque’s Global Sales Manager, recounts that, when the opportunity to partner with B.E.D. came up, management did not think twice: “From our perspective as a supplier, B.E.D. is an ideal strategic partner due to its extensive industry and distribution experience, strong local market presence, ethical reputation and unwavering commitment to quality and customer service.”

In particular, Houston cites the following attributes of B.E.D. as the perfect strategic partner:

• Extensive industry experience: With over four decades of experience, B.E.D. has built a strong reputation and a wealth of expertise in supplying high-quality products across diverse industry sectors, including agriculture, mining, materials handling, working at height and welding.
• Commitment to safety and quality: B.E.D. is synonymous with safety and quality, consistently delivering products that meet stringent industry standards.
• Strong supplier and customer relationships: B.E.D. maintains long-standing relationships with an impressive portfolio of both international and local suppliers, built on shared values of trust, integrity, and a commitment to the ‘100/0’ ethos of taking 100% responsibility and accountability, with zero excuses.
• Comprehensive solutions and reliable service: B.E.D. has been a key player in providing tailored solutions for numerous significant projects across various industries. The company ensures reliability in stock, sourcing, and delivery, supported by innovative in-house logistics and management, to meet the needs of its loyal customer base.

 Extending B.E.D.’s bolting and torqueing product range and capabilities

The addition of Bolt Torque’s latest technology extends the range of B.E.D.’s product portfolio by including high-precision hydraulic torque wrenches, and advanced wind turbine tensioners for wind farm applications. This addresses some of the most pressing challenges in bolting and tensioning in renewable energy, oil and gas, and mining sectors.

Houston highlights some of the features of the technology and the convenience it brings to the complex task of bolting and tensioning: “The latest Plarad battery-powered torque and tension tools from Germany are engineered to provide precise and consistent results, addressing the issue of variability in bolt torqueing and tensioning, which can lead to equipment failures or safety hazards.”

Turnkey solution

Of note is the fact that the partnership goes beyond the latest technology. It adds significant value – not only by expanding B.E.D.’s existing fastener range with high-quality bolting and tensioning tools and capabilities, but also by offering a turnkey solution which includes equipment rental, certified and traceable tool calibration and on-site technical support services. In this way, customers not only receive high-quality products – but also the necessary services to maintain and optimise their equipment, thereby improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime. 

In particular, Houston sees the rental options as providing the convenience of cost-effective bolting and tensioning solutions for companies that need high-quality equipment without the upfront investment.

Furthermore, through  Bolt Torque`s 20 year association with Top Rope, a leading rope access and on-site contractor, Bolt Torque and B.E.D are able to offer bolting installations on customers’ sites.

Nationwide reach

What’s more, the new distribution agreement with B.E.D. enhances Bolt Torque’s reach and its service offering to customers: “By leveraging B.E.D.’s 9 branches and established customer base, we can now provide nationwide access to our high-quality bolt torqueing and tensioning tools. Customers can expect not just the best torqueing and tensioning equipment, but also expert guidance regarding its application, ensuring that bolts are tightened correctly and safely,” Houston says, underscoring Bolt Torque’s commitment to maintaining a high standard of service, with rental tools and spare equipment readily available to meet urgent needs.

In summary, this dynamic collaboration allows B.E.D. and Bolt Torque to better serve their joint customers; and, together, to tap into new vertical industries and opportunities across South Africa.

Regarding what current and prospective customers in the mining sector should expect, Houston pronounces, “Excellence!” Then, he proceeds to elaborate: “Clients can expect an elevated standard of service and product offerings, marked by speedy delivery, agility and innovation, which will set a new benchmark in the industry.”