Manufacturer mitigates supply challenges

28th May 2021 By: Theresa Bhowan-Rajah - journalist

Manufacturer mitigates supply challenges

FIRM GRIP The BAND-IT stainless steel band clamps spread their clamping force out across the full perimeter of the items they are joining

With the global pandemic posing challenges across all industries, the greatest challenge that industrial and electronic supplier Actum faces is the timeous supply of raw materials.

“Actum Group is the only authorised manufacturer under licence for BAND-IT stainless steel strapping and buckles outside the manufacturing plants in the US and the UK. The challenge that arose during the pandemic was the timely arrival of raw materials from overseas,” says Actum MD Kevin Klaff.

Actum Group mitigated the additional challenge of the fluctuating prices of these raw materials “by planning ahead and ensuring that there is always an abundance of stock available”, he adds.

Meanwhile, when compared with other joining methods, such as threaded fasteners, spot welds, tack welds, rivets or nails, the BAND-IT stainless steel band clamps spread their clamping force out across the full perimeter or contact area of the items they are joining.

“This allows the joint to be formed without altering the items being joined. This, ultimately, sets the BAND-IT fastening solution apart from others,” explains Actum BAND-IT product leader Matthew Campbell.

There are multiple benefits to using these stainless steel fasteners – they are flexible and conform to any shape without breaking. The fasteners are nonintrusive – they do not require any welding or drilling – with no damage to the surface on which it is used.

The fasteners can be used in permanent, temporary and adjustable clamping solutions, making them suitable for use in a variety of applications.

“BAND-IT offers different grades of stainless steel – most commonly 304, 201 and 316 – with speciality grades available on request for subsea or highly corrosive environments. BAND-IT also offers coated stainless steel options, which increase corrosion resistance and the life span of the fastener,” concludes Campbell.