Food and beverage manufacturing plants should use stainless steel fasteners for highly specialised and safety-critical applications, says industrial equipment supplier BMG.

The company offers a range of high-quality stainless steel fasteners, as well as the Nord-Lock bolt-securing system, to enhance food safety.

The company’s stainless steel range is corrosion resistant and durable, enabling food and beverage plants to either mitigate or completely eliminate the adverse effects of moisture and washdowns, says BMG fasteners sales manager Maryna Werner.

“These fasteners are used in the assembly of machine frames, guards and critical components, where corrosion resistance, hygiene and long-term reliability are essential. By supplying high-quality stainless steel fasteners, BMG helps to support reliable operation .”

She adds that using the wrong fasteners might accelerate corrosion, which, in turn, could cause premature component failure or create a contamination risk for food and beverage products.

“Through BMG’s assistance with careful and accurate product selection, correct installation methods and appropriate care of equipment, substantial savings are realised. Apart from the supply of engineering consumables and components, industry requires ongoing maintenance and refurbishment services to ensure efficient productivity,” she explains.

Further, the Nord-Lock bolt-securing system limits the likelihood of equipment failure caused by bolt loosening resulting from vibration and dynamic loads. The system is based on a wedge-locking technology and is available in stainless steel. Nord-Lock washers are designed to safely secure bolted joints in high-vibration environments.

The Nord-Lock bolt-securing system, available in 316-grade stainless steel, improves equipment reliability while reducing maintenance requirements and unplanned downtime.

“It also reduces food safety risks, as bolted joints that loosen under vibration can create a significant risk, should a fastener or component enter the production line, potentially resulting in product contamination, costly recalls and production stoppages,” adds Werner.

The bolt-securing system is the only branded product of its kind on the South African market to carry the EU’s conformity symbol, CE, indicating compliance with stringent safety and quality regulations.

Werner says BMG commits to ensuring optimal operationality for all customers by facilitating access to numerous innovative fastening solutions.

“We work closely with customers to ensure that [every] plant is well prepared to maintain full production. BMG’s solutions for the food and beverage sector extend across the entire production process – from processing, where raw ingredients are transformed, to packaging, where products are enclosed and protected for safe distribution,” she concludes.