Quality
Product quality and service
In the world of fasteners and accessories, everything depends on the quality of the product. In many applications, this is the deciding factor. This is why pgb-Europe takes the term "product quality" very seriously. To consistently meet high quality standards, we first subject our suppliers to strict evaluations. We then carry out regular spot checks on incoming goods and, if necessary, call on an accredited independent laboratory.
Another form of quality that pgb-Europe considers equally important is the quality of our services: our customer service, the e-shop, and our recent warehouse expansion are just a few examples. Since 2002, pgb-Europe has been ISO 9001 certified. The purpose of the quality system is to increase the quality of our services and products and to increase the efficiency of the company.
At the beginning of 2021, the ISO certificate was renewed.
QC Department
We strive for high-quality materials through a proper purchasing policy, ensuring compliance with industry standards (DIN, ISO, or customer specifications). We approve, provisionally approve, or reject suppliers based on their past performance and quality system evaluations.
Random inspections of incoming goods are performed, with measurements taken and a standardized report made, depending on the product type. We use tools such as the Fischerscope, Thermo Scientific X-ray, Pull-out Tester, Go and No-Go gauges, Torque Tester, sliding gauge, micrometer, hardness meter, profile projector, and wire gauge for our inspections.
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Friction test procedure according to EN 14399
EN 14399 is a European standard that specifies the requirements for high-strength structural bolting assemblies for preloading. It covers the testing and performance evaluation of preloaded bolts, nuts, and washers used in steel structures. The standard includes various aspects of bolted connections, including friction tests for which pgb bought specific test equipment with a capacity of 2000Nm torque from Kistler, Germany.
Friction test according to EN 14399 HR and HV
The test is conducted to determine the coefficient of friction between the contacting surfaces of the bolt head/nut and the adjacent structural members when the bolted joint is subjected to a specified preloading force.
The purpose of the friction test is to ensure that the designed preload (tension) in the bolt is achieved and maintained after tightening. It is crucial because achieving and maintaining the desired preload ensures the stability and integrity of the steel structure.
- Test Setup = The friction test is typically performed using a specialized testing rig or equipment designed for this purpose. The bolt is placed in contact with the connected structural members, and the nut is tightened to the specified torque or tension.
- Preloading = A specified preloading force is applied to the bolt by tightening the nut.
- Relaxation Period = After the initial preloading, a short break is set before further tightening.
- Retightening = After the relaxation period, the bolt is retightened to the specified torque or tension to compensate for any preload loss during relaxation.
- Load Measurement = Throughout the test, the preload in the bolt is continuously monitored using load cells or strain gauges.
- Coefficient of Friction Calculation = The coefficient of friction between the bolted surfaces is calculated based on the preload values obtained from load measurements during the test.
- Acceptance Criteria = The test results are compared against the specified acceptance criteria to determine whether the bolted connection meets the requirements of the standard.
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