Uncategorized

Fastener fatigue life and failure analysis in harsh offshore environments

The offshore oil industry operates in some of the harshest environments on earth, with subsea equipment and pipelines subjected to extreme conditions such as high pressure, temperature, and corrosive seawater. Fasteners used in these environments are critical components that hold everything together, and their failure can have serious consequences such as leaks, spills, and equipment damage. This publication focuses on the impact of seawater exposure and cyclic loading on bolt failure in offshore platforms and recommends preventive measures to mitigate this risk.

Fastener fatigue life

Fastener fatigue is a common mode of failure in offshore platforms, where equipment and pipelines are subjected to cyclic loading over long periods. This loading can cause microscopic cracks to form in the fastener material, which can grow and eventually lead to catastrophic failure. Fastener fatigue life is influenced by several factors, including the material properties, the design of the joint, the loading conditions, and the operating environment.

Material properties

The choice of material for fasteners is critical in harsh offshore environments, where seawater exposure and corrosive gases can cause rapid degradation of certain materials. Common materials used for fasteners in offshore platforms include carbon steel, alloy steel, and stainless steel. Carbon steel is the most common material due to its high strength and low cost, but it is also susceptible to corrosion in seawater. Alloy steel and stainless steel are more resistant to corrosion, but they are also more expensive and may not be suitable for all applications.

Design of the joint

The design of the joint can also have a significant impact on fastener fatigue life. Factors such as the size and shape of the fastener, the number of fasteners, and the preload applied to the joint can all affect the fatigue behaviour. For example, joints with too few fasteners or insufficient preload may experience higher stress concentrations and be more prone to fatigue failure.

Loading conditions

The loading conditions that fasteners are subjected to can also impact fatigue life. In offshore platforms, cyclic loading is common due to the continuous movement of the platform caused by waves and wind. The frequency and magnitude of the cyclic loading can vary depending on the location and weather conditions, and can significantly affect the fatigue behaviour of the fasteners.

Operating environment

The operating environment in offshore platforms can also affect fastener fatigue life. Seawater exposure is a major concern, as it can cause corrosion and stress corrosion cracking in certain materials. The presence of corrosive gases such as hydrogen sulphide can also accelerate degradation and increase the risk of failure.

Case study: Impact of seawater exposure and cyclic loading on bolt failure

To illustrate the impact of seawater exposure and cyclic loading on bolt failure in offshore platforms, a case study is presented here. The case study focuses on a subsea pipeline connection in the North Sea, where several bolts failed after only a few years of service.

The pipeline connection consisted of two flanges, each with 12 bolts, that were connected using a bolt tensioning system. The bolts were made of carbon steel and had a diameter of 1 inch. The pipeline was exposed to seawater and subjected to cyclic loading due to the continuous movement of the platform caused by waves and wind.

After a few years of service, several bolts in the connection failed due to fatigue. Failure analysis revealed that the bolts had developed fatigue cracks at the root of the threads, which had grown and eventually led to complete fracture. The cracks were caused by the cyclic loading of the pipeline, which had exceeded the fatigue limit of the bolts.

Further analysis also revealed that the seawater exposure had accelerated the corrosion of the bolts, reducing their strength and contributing to the fatigue failure. The combination of cyclic loading and seawater exposure had therefore significantly reduced the fatigue life of the bolts, leading to premature failure.

Preventive measures

To prevent fastener failure in offshore platforms, several preventive measures can be implemented. These measures include:

  1. Material selection: Choosing the right material for fasteners is critical in offshore platforms. Corrosion-resistant materials such as alloy steel and stainless steel are preferred for applications where seawater exposure is a concern.
  2. Coatings: Applying coatings such as zinc, cadmium, or other anti-corrosion coatings can help protect fasteners from the corrosive effects of seawater. However, the coating must be carefully selected based on the specific application and environmental conditions.
  3. Preload: Properly tightening fasteners to the recommended preload can help distribute the load evenly and reduce stress concentrations. This can help prevent fatigue cracks from forming and improve the fatigue life of the joint.
  4. Inspection: Regular inspection of fasteners can help detect early signs of corrosion, cracking, or other defects. This can help identify potential problems before they become serious and allow for preventive measures to be implemented.
  5. Maintenance: Proper maintenance of offshore equipment and pipelines is critical to preventing fastener failure. Regular cleaning and inspection can help reduce the impact of seawater exposure and ensure that fasteners are functioning properly.

Conclusion

Fastener fatigue life and failure analysis are critical issues in offshore platforms, where equipment and pipelines are subjected to extreme conditions such as seawater exposure and cyclic loading. The case study presented here illustrates the impact of these factors on bolt failure and highlights the importance of preventive measures to mitigate the risk.

Proper material selection, coatings, preload, inspection, and maintenance can all help improve the fatigue life of fasteners and prevent premature failure. By implementing these measures, offshore operators can reduce the risk of equipment damage, spills, and environmental damage, and ensure the safe and reliable operation of their assets.

Technical Bulletins

Duplex and SuperDuplex Material Study

Duplex and superduplex steels are advanced materials that offer superior mechanical, corrosion, and erosion resistance properties over conventional stainless steels. These alloys have a two-phase microstructure consisting of austenite and ferrite phases, resulting in improved strength, toughness, and resistance to stress corrosion cracking. These properties make duplex and super duplex stainless steels ideal for applications in aggressive environments such as the oil and gas, chemical, and marine industries.

SeprDuplex Offshore Installation

Development of Duplex and Superduplex Stainless Steels

Duplex and super duplex stainless steels were developed in the 1930s and 1940s as a result of research into the corrosion resistance of stainless steels in acidic and chloride-containing environments. Early duplex stainless steels were low in nickel and high in chromium and molybdenum to improve their corrosion resistance. However, these alloys had limited toughness and ductility, which made them difficult to fabricate and prone to cracking during welding.

In the 1960s, the development of more advanced duplex stainless steels began, incorporating additional elements such as nitrogen, copper, and tungsten to improve their mechanical properties and welding characteristics. The addition of nitrogen, in particular, increased the strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance of duplex stainless steels, leading to the development of super duplex stainless steels.

Grades of Duplex and Superduplex Stainless Steels

  1. Duplex Stainless Steels (UNS S31803, S32205): These grades contain around 22% chromium, 5-6% nickel, and 3% molybdenum. They also have a small amount of nitrogen (0.1-0.2%) to improve their mechanical properties. Duplex stainless steels offer a good combination of strength, toughness, and corrosion resistance, making them suitable for a range of applications in the chemical, petrochemical, and pulp and paper industries.
  2. Super Duplex Stainless Steels (UNS S32750, S32760): Super duplex stainless steels contain around 25% chromium, 7% nickel, and 3.5% molybdenum, as well as 0.3% nitrogen. These alloys have higher strength and corrosion resistance than duplex stainless steels, making them suitable for use in more demanding applications such as offshore oil and gas production, desalination plants, and chemical processing.
  3. Lean Duplex Stainless Steels (UNS S32304): Lean duplex stainless steels contain around 21% chromium, 4.5% nickel, and 0.3% nitrogen. They offer good corrosion resistance and lower cost than other duplex stainless steels, making them suitable for applications in the food processing, wastewater treatment, and architectural industries.
  4. Hyper Duplex Stainless Steels: Hyper duplex stainless steels are a new generation of duplex stainless steels that offer even higher strength and corrosion resistance than super duplex stainless steels. They contain around 27% chromium, 7% nickel, 4% molybdenum, and 0.8% nitrogen. Hyper duplex stainless steels are currently being developed for use in highly corrosive environments such as offshore oil and gas production and chemical processing.

Trademarked Grades

There are several trademarked duplex and superduplex stainless steel grades that have been developed to meet specific application requirements. Some of the most common ones include:

  1. SAF 2205: This is one of the most widely used duplex stainless steel grades. It contains 22% chromium, 5% nickel, and 3% molybdenum, along with other alloying elements such as nitrogen and manganese. SAF 2205 offers excellent corrosion resistance, high strength, and good weldability, making it ideal for use in a range of applications, including oil and gas, chemical processing, and marine environments.
  2. SAF 2507: This is a super duplex stainless steel grade that contains 25% chromium, 7% nickel, and 4% molybdenum, along with other alloying elements such as nitrogen and copper. SAF 2507 offers even higher corrosion resistance and strength than SAF 2205, making it ideal for use in highly corrosive environments such as desalination plants and offshore structures.
  3. Zeron 100: This is another super duplex stainless steel grade that contains 25% chromium, 7% nickel, and 3.5% molybdenum, along with other alloying elements such as nitrogen and tungsten. Zeron 100 offers excellent corrosion resistance, high strength, and good weldability, making it ideal for use in a range of applications, including oil and gas, chemical processing, and marine environments.
  4. Ferralium 255: This is a super duplex stainless steel grade that contains 25% chromium, 7% nickel, and 3.5% molybdenum, along with other alloying elements such as nitrogen and copper. Ferralium 255 offers even higher corrosion resistance and strength than SAF 2507, making it ideal for use in highly corrosive environments such as desalination plants and offshore structures.
  5. LDX 2101: This is a lean duplex stainless steel grade that contains 21% chromium, 1.5% nickel, and 0.3% molybdenum, along with other alloying elements such as nitrogen and manganese. LDX 2101 offers good corrosion resistance and high strength, making it ideal for use in a range of applications, including chemical processing and marine environments.

Each of these duplex and super duplex stainless steel grades has been developed to meet specific application requirements. For example, SAF 2205 and Zeron 100 offer good weldability, while SAF 2507 and Ferralium 255 offer even higher corrosion resistance and strength for use in highly corrosive environments. LDX 2101, on the other hand, offers a more cost-effective solution for applications where high strength and good corrosion resistance are required but at a lower cost than super duplex stainless steels.

Super Duplex Zeron 100 Fastener Grades

Zeron 100 is further developed in higher strengths graded FG and FLT versions. Hague Fasteners have extensive experience working with these alloys.

Zeron 100 is a duplex stainless steel that is widely used in a variety of industrial applications. It is an alloy that contains a high percentage of chromium, molybdenum, and nitrogen, which provide it with exceptional corrosion resistance properties. It also has high strength and toughness, making it ideal for use in applications where mechanical stresses are present.

The higher strength graded FG and FLT versions of Zeron 100 are modifications of the standard alloy that have been designed to provide even greater strength and durability. These alloys have higher levels of nickel, nitrogen, and molybdenum, which provide them with even greater corrosion resistance and strength. They also have improved toughness, which is essential in applications where high mechanical stresses are present.

The FG version of Zeron 100 is specifically designed for use in fastener applications. It has been optimized to provide the high strength and corrosion resistance required in these applications. The FLT Grade of Zeron 100, on the other hand, is suitable for use in floating production systems, such as oil and gas platforms. It has been designed to withstand the harsh and corrosive environments found in these applications.

The applications of Zeron 100 and its higher strength grades FG and FLT are extensive. The standard alloy is commonly used in the chemical and petrochemical industries, where it is used in equipment such as pumps, valves, and heat exchangers. Its excellent corrosion resistance properties also make it ideal for use in marine applications, such as seawater desalination plants and offshore structures.

Zeron 100FG is commonly used in fastener applications, such as bolts and screws, where high strength and corrosion resistance are essential. It is also used in oil and gas production equipment, such as valves, pumps, and manifolds.

Zeron 100FLT is commonly used in floating production systems, such as offshore platforms. It is used in a variety of equipment, including risers, connectors, and subsea production systems. Its exceptional corrosion resistance and high strength make it an ideal material for these applications.

Zeron 100 and its modified FG and FLT grades are exceptional alloys that provide excellent corrosion resistance, strength, and toughness. They are widely used in a variety of industrial applications and are particularly useful in aggressive and corrosive environments. We work extensively with these alloys, and we are confident that they will continue to play a vital role in the industrial landscape for many years to come.

Environment and Applications

Duplex and superduplex stainless steels are ideal for use in aggressive environments where conventional stainless steels would fail. These alloys offer excellent resistance to pitting, crevice, and general corrosion, as well as erosion and stress corrosion cracking. Some common applications of duplex and super duplex stainless steels include:

  1. Oil and Gas: Duplex and super duplex stainless steels are widely used in offshore oil and gas production, where they are exposed to highly corrosive environments containing chloride, hydrogen sulfide, and carbon dioxide. These alloys offer excellent resistance to corrosion and erosion, making them ideal for use in subsea pipelines, offshore platforms, and other critical components.
  1. Chemical Processing: Duplex and super duplex stainless steels are used in chemical processing plants where they are exposed to highly acidic or alkaline environments, as well as high temperatures and pressures. These alloys offer excellent resistance to corrosion and erosion, making them ideal for use in heat exchangers, reactors, and other critical components.
  2. Desalination: Super duplex stainless steels are commonly used in desalination plants, where they are exposed to highly saline environments containing chloride and other aggressive ions. These alloys offer excellent resistance to corrosion and erosion, making them ideal for use in seawater intake systems, brine concentrators, and other critical components.
  3. Marine: Duplex and super duplex stainless steels are widely used in marine applications, where they are exposed to seawater and other corrosive environments. These alloys offer excellent resistance to corrosion and erosion, making them ideal for use in offshore structures, shipbuilding, and other critical components.

Duplex and super duplex stainless steels are advanced materials that offer superior mechanical, corrosion, and erosion resistance properties over conventional stainless steels. These alloys have a two-phase microstructure consisting of austenite and ferrite phases, resulting in improved strength, toughness, and resistance to stress corrosion cracking. There are several grades of duplex and super duplex stainless steels available, each with different compositions and properties, making them suitable for a range of applications in the oil and gas, chemical, desalination, marine, and other industries. The development of hyper duplex stainless steels represents a new generation of these alloys, offering even higher strength and corrosion resistance properties for use in highly corrosive environments.

Technical Bulletins, Thread Protection

Screw Thread and Bolt Protection

Screw Thread Protection for Engineered Components

Thread Protection

One of the most common forms of damage to engineered components is screw thread damage. Screw threads are an integral part of many components, and any damage to them can have far-reaching consequences. In this article, we will detail the problems caused by damaged screw threads in engineered components commonly caused by poor bolt protection during packaging and shipping.

Screw Thread Protection for Engineered Components

Engineered components are crucial in various industries, from automotive to safety-critical Nuclear and Defence installations. These components are designed to perform specific functions with a high degree of precision and reliability. However, when these components are damaged during packaging and shipping, it can cause significant problems.

The Problems Caused by Damaged Screw Threads

The primary function of screw threads is to provide a secure and reliable connection between components. Any damage to the threads can compromise this connection and result in several issues.

Firstly, damaged threads can cause the component to fail prematurely. When the connection between components is not secure, it can cause the assembly to become loose or dislodged, resulting in a malfunction or failure. This can be particularly dangerous in critical applications, where a single component failure can have catastrophic consequences.

Secondly, damaged threads can result in increased maintenance costs. If a component fails prematurely due to damaged threads, it will need to be replaced or repaired. This can result in increased downtime, lost productivity, and increased costs.

Thirdly, damaged threads can result in reduced efficiency. When the connection between components is not secure, it can result in vibrations, which can cause wear and tear on the component. This can result in reduced efficiency and increased energy consumption.

Bolt Protection

The Extra Efforts Hague Fasteners Go To Protecting Threads and Precision Turned Parts

One such method is by wax dipping them to prevent knocks and damage after manufacturing. Wax dipping is a process where the component is dipped into a bath of hot wax to create a protective coating. This coating provides a layer of protection that can prevent damage from knocks and bumps during shipping and handling. It also helps to prevent moisture and other contaminants from penetrating the component, which can cause corrosion or other forms of damage, giving up to 10 years of extended rust prevention in storage.

Wax dipping is an effective and cost-efficient way to protect engineered components, especially threads, during shipping and handling. By taking this extra step, we can ensure that our components are received in perfect condition, ready to perform their intended function with reliability and precision. This protection is far more effective than the Extruded Mesh Sleeves sometimes applied to threaded parts.

Screw Thread and Bolt Protection, Damaged Threads Summary

Damaged screw threads in engineered components can cause significant problems, including premature component failure, increased maintenance costs, and reduced efficiency. That’s why it’s essential to protect components during shipping and handling to prevent damage from occurring. At Hague Fasteners, we go the extra mile to protect our components by wax dipping them to prevent knocks and damage after manufacturing. By doing so, we can ensure that our components are received in perfect condition, ready to perform their intended function with reliability and precision.

Hydrogen Embrittlement, Technical Bulletins

Hydrogen Embrittlement

Hydrogen Embrittlement Fasteners

What is Embrittlement

Hydrogen embrittlement is a phenomenon that can occur in fasteners, such as bolts and screws, due to the presence of hydrogen atoms. This process can weaken the structural integrity of the fastener and lead to unexpected failures, which can have serious consequences. In this publication, we will examine the causes and effects of hydrogen embrittlement in fasteners, as well as potential prevention strategies.

Causes

The cause of hydrogen embrittlement in fasteners is the absorption of hydrogen atoms into the metal during manufacturing, processing, or service. Hydrogen can be introduced into the metal through various methods, such as pickling, electroplating, and welding. Once hydrogen atoms are introduced into the metal, they can migrate to areas of high stress concentration, such as the threads or the shank of the fastener. When the hydrogen atoms accumulate in these areas, they can create internal voids or microcracks, which can reduce the ductility and toughness of the metal. As a result, the fastener becomes susceptible to sudden fracture, even under normal loads.

The effect of hydrogen embrittlement in fasteners can be catastrophic, especially in safety-critical applications, such as aerospace, automotive, and construction. The failure of a fastener due to hydrogen embrittlement can lead to equipment malfunction, loss of structural integrity, and even personal injury or loss of life. Moreover, the damage caused by hydrogen embrittlement may not be immediately apparent, as the fastener can fracture without warning after a period of service. This makes it difficult to detect and prevent hydrogen embrittlement in fasteners.

Prevention – Baking

Preventing hydrogen embrittlement in fasteners requires a proactive approach that addresses the sources of hydrogen, the design of the fastener, and the selection of materials and processing methods. One common prevention strategy is to use low-hydrogen processes, such as electroless nickel plating or black oxide coating, that minimize the introduction of hydrogen into the metal. Another approach is to reduce the stress levels in the fastener by using larger diameters, smoother threads, and lower torque values. Additionally, designers can select materials that are less susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement, such as high-strength alloys with low hydrogen affinity.

Heat treatment baking is a common process used to prevent hydrogen embrittlement in high-strength fasteners. This process involves heating the fasteners to a specific temperature for a certain amount of time, which allows any hydrogen that has been absorbed by the metal to diffuse out of the material. The baking process is typically performed after the fasteners have been plated or coated with a hydrogen-absorbing material, such as cadmium or zinc.

During the heat treatment baking process, the fasteners are heated in an oven or furnace to a temperature typically ranging from 375 to 450 degrees Celsius (700 to 840 degrees Fahrenheit) for a period of several hours. The specific temperature and duration of the baking process depend on the type of material being used and the amount of hydrogen that needs to be removed.

The heat treatment baking process can be done using either a batch or continuous process. In a batch process, the fasteners are placed in a rack and then loaded into the oven or furnace, while in a continuous process, the fasteners are conveyed through the oven or furnace on a conveyor belt.

One of the advantages of heat treatment baking is that it is a relatively simple and cost-effective process that can be easily integrated into existing manufacturing processes. It is also a proven method for reducing the risk of hydrogen embrittlement in high-strength fasteners.

However, it is important to note that heat treatment baking is not always effective in preventing hydrogen embrittlement, particularly in cases where the fasteners are exposed to high levels of hydrogen during service. In such cases, alternative methods of preventing hydrogen embrittlement, such as the use of alternative materials or coatings, may be necessary. Overall, heat treatment baking is an important process for ensuring the safety and reliability of high-strength fasteners in a wide range of applications, particularly in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and industrial manufacturing.

Prevention – Materials

To help avoid hydrogen embrittlement, there are several materials and superalloys that are less susceptible to this phenomenon. Here are some examples:

    Austenitic stainless steel: Austenitic stainless steel is a non-magnetic alloy that is resistant to corrosion and hydrogen embrittlement. It contains high levels of nickel and chromium, which provide excellent mechanical properties and resistance to environmental degradation.

    Titanium alloys: Titanium alloys are known for their high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and resistance to hydrogen embrittlement. They are commonly used in aerospace, medical, and industrial applications.

    Inconel alloys: Inconel alloys are a family of nickel-based superalloys that are known for their high temperature strength, corrosion resistance, and resistance to hydrogen embrittlement. They are commonly used in aerospace, marine, and chemical processing applications.

    Monel alloys: Monel alloys are a family of nickel-copper alloys that are highly resistant to corrosion and hydrogen embrittlement. They are commonly used in marine and chemical processing applications.

    Cobalt alloys: Cobalt alloys are a family of high-performance alloys that are known for their high temperature strength, wear resistance, and resistance to hydrogen embrittlement. They are commonly used in aerospace, medical, and industrial applications. It’s important to note that selecting the best material or superalloy for a given application depends on various factors, such as the operating conditions, the type of fastener or component, and the cost. Consulting with a materials engineer or a specialist in the field can help identify the best solution for a particular case.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hydrogen embrittlement in fasteners is a serious issue that can compromise the safety and reliability of equipment and structures. The causes of hydrogen embrittlement are multifaceted and can occur at various stages of the fastener’s life cycle. The effects of hydrogen embrittlement can be catastrophic, leading to sudden failure and potential harm to people and property. Prevention of hydrogen embrittlement requires a holistic approach that includes minimizing the introduction of hydrogen, reducing stress levels, and selecting appropriate materials and processes. By following these best practices, engineers and manufacturers can ensure the integrity and longevity of fasteners in critical applications.

Examples of Failures in Fasteners

  • In 2019, a steel beam collapsed at a construction site in Melbourne, Australia, killing one worker and injuring several others. The cause of the collapse was determined to be the failure of a fastener due to hydrogen embrittlement. The fastener had been recently installed and had not been properly heat-treated, which contributed to its susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement. (Source: ABC News, “Melbourne worksite collapse: One dead, two critical after scaffolding falls on them,” 23 November 2019)
  • In 2010, a gas pipeline explosion occurred in San Bruno, California, killing eight people and causing significant damage to the surrounding neighborhood. Investigation revealed that the cause of the explosion was a rupture in a pipeline due to hydrogen embrittlement in a weld joint. The fasteners used in the weld joint were found to have absorbed hydrogen during the welding process, which led to their sudden fracture. (Source: National Transportation Safety Board, “Pacific Gas and Electric Company Natural Gas Transmission Pipeline Rupture and Fire,” Accident Report NTSB/PAR-11/01)
  • In 2013, a fire broke out in a Boeing 787 Dreamliner parked at Heathrow Airport in London. Investigation revealed that the cause of the fire was a fractured titanium fastener that held the battery casing in place. The fastener had experienced hydrogen embrittlement, which weakened its structure and led to its sudden failure. (Source: Reuters, “Boeing says Dreamliner fire caused by faulty battery,” 20 March 2014)
  • In 2017, a water tank exploded at a chemical plant in Louisiana, killing three workers and injuring several others. The cause of the explosion was determined to be a failed bolt that had experienced hydrogen embrittlement. The bolt had been recently installed and had not been properly heat-treated, which contributed to its susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement. (Source: Chemical Safety Board, “CSB releases final report into 2017 fatal incident at the Packaging Corporation of America in DeRidder, Louisiana,” 29 October 2019)
  • In 2017, the U.S. Navy issued a safety bulletin warning of the risk of hydrogen embrittlement in certain types of stainless steel bolts used in shipboard equipment. The bulletin cited several instances of bolt failures due to hydrogen embrittlement, including one incident where a bolt on a high-pressure air compressor failed, causing an explosion and injuries to sailors. (Source: Navy Safety Center, “Hydrogen Embrittlement in Bolts and Screws,” Safety Bulletin 17-01)
  •  In 2019, a bolt failure caused a roller coaster derailment at the Daytona Beach Boardwalk in Florida. The failure was attributed to hydrogen embrittlement, which weakened the bolt and led to its sudden fracture. Two riders were ejected from the coaster and fell 34 feet to the ground, suffering serious injuries. (Source: NBC News, “Roller coaster derailment caused by ‘excessive corrosion’ of support beam, state says,” 17 July 2019)
  • In 2016, the roof of the Allianz Riviera soccer stadium in Nice, France partially collapsed due to the failure of several fasteners. An investigation revealed that the fasteners had experienced hydrogen embrittlement, which weakened their structure and led to their sudden failure. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident. (Source: The Local France, “Nice stadium roof collapse due to ‘metal fatigue’,” 14 September 2016)
  • In 2018, the roof of the Afsluitdijk road tunnel in the Netherlands partially collapsed, prompting its closure for several months. An investigation revealed that the failure was caused by the corrosion and hydrogen embrittlement of fasteners used to secure the roof panels. The fasteners had been exposed to high levels of saltwater and hydrogen gas, which contributed to their deterioration. (Source: NOS, “Afsluitdijk tunnel closed due to faulty bolts,” 17 January 2018)
  • In 2016, a train derailment occurred in Mosier, Oregon, causing a crude oil spill and fire. Investigation revealed that the cause of the derailment was a broken bolt in the rail joint, which had experienced hydrogen embrittlement. The bolt had been manufactured using a high-strength steel that was susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement, and had been exposed to hydrogen during service. (Source: Federal Railroad Administration, “Railroad Accident Brief: Union Pacific Railroad Derailment,” Accident Report RAB-16-03)

These examples highlight the serious consequences in fasteners, and underscore the importance of taking preventive measures to minimize the risk of failure.

Uncategorized

Plastic Packaging Tax Statement (PPT)

Plastic Packaging Tax

What is the Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT)?

The PPT came into force on the 1st April 2022. It applies to plastic packaging used in products imported into, or manufactured in the UK, that do not contain at least 30% recycled plastic for companies that produce in excess of 10 metric tonnes of plastic packaging per annum.

What is the purpose of the tax?

The aim of the PPT is to encourage businesses to increase the use of recycled material in the production of plastic packaging for products. Demand for recycled material is expected to increase the collection and recycling of waste plastic thus reducing the amount which is landfilled or incinerated. The rate of PPT increases in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) as advised by the UK Government.

Hague Fasteners and the Plastic Packaging Tax

The total amount of Plastic Packaging used by Hague Fasteners falls significantly below the PPT threshold.

From the 1st April 2022 Hague Fasteners Limited monitor in scope, out of scope, and exempt packaging on a continual basis to determine any PPT liability.

Hague Fasteners ensure that all Plastic Packaging used within our operation contains 30% recycled plastic, as an absolute minimum, and where possible seeks alternative materials to completely eliminate the use of plastics.

We recognise that we are all in challenging times in terms of global environmental impacts and we all have a part to play in addressing threats to our planet.  Hague Fasteners is fully committed to assessing, understanding and improving its environmental impact and performance.

In the unlikely event that the threshold of 10 tonnes is reached, then as per our obligations, we will register with HMRC as liable to pay PPT on all applicable packaging used within our Company and will then :-.

  • report and with best endeavours complete HMRC tax declarations accurately.
  • Provide evidence for all exemptions and recycled content declarations.
  • carry out due diligence checks to ensure product specifications are and remain accurate.
  • identify, investigate and qualify alternative packaging methods for future targeted packaging improvements.

We monitor in scope, out of scope, and exempt packaging on a continual basis which easily helps us to determine any future PPT liability.

Declaration

Hague Fasteners are exempt from PPT as the total amount of Plastic Packaging used by us falls significantly below the 10 tonnes PPT threshold. Further as a commitment to improving our Environment we strive to eliminate the use of plastic completely from our packaging and where this is not possible commit to ensuring any products used contain at least 30% recycled plastic.

If it is determined that there is a PPT liability at any time in the future, then Hague Fasteners will assume all related PPT liabilities on all applicable packaging.

We confirm that Hague Fasteners customers shall not have any liabilities in respect of PPT on all applicable packaging used within Hague Fasteners products purchased from the company.

Copyright, DMCA, Uncategorized

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Uncategorized

Christmas 2022 Shutdown

We are winding down for the Holiday period from midday on the 22nd December, our offices will be closed between 23rd December and 2nd January, returning as normal on Tuesday, 3rd January.

Hague Fasteners Merry Christmas

As always we will remain reachable via Email and our Website Chat Message Service throughout the holiday break although response times may naturally be a little slower than typically expected as we all take a well earned break, ready to go again in 2023.

DayStatus
Thursday 22nd Dec 2022Closing at Midday
Friday 23rd Dec 2022Closed
Monday 26th Dec 2022Closed
Tuesday 27th Dec 2022Closed
Wednesday 28th Dec 2022Closed
Thursday 29th Dec 2022Closed
Friday 30th Dec 2022Closed
Monday 2nd Jan 2023Closed
Tuesday 3rd Jan 2023OPEN – Normal Hours Resume
Christmas 2022 / New Year 2023 Holiday

Christmas Message From Hague Fasteners

As 2022 draws to a close and we all start to wind down for the Festive Holiday Season, I would like to take a moment to thank you for your part played during the year.

2022 has been another year of growth and development, with new machinery, additional production staff and further improvements to our Critial Safety Assured Quality Management Systems.

We continue to be one of the very few, if not only, SME Special Fastener manufacturers that are operating at Net Zero, a Carbon Negative operation, and are proud to have planted over 500 Trees in the developing world under our Tree Planting Project ‘The Hague Forest, in Madagascar, Kenya and Haiti, with over 160 Tons of CO2  Sequestration to aid the future sustainability of our planet.

I look forward to working alongside you in 2023 with any Special Projects where Custom Precision Engineered Components are needed with the very best in Customer Service and Support.

2022 has been a very successful year again for us, we have added even more clients to our large portfolio and continue to assit on major Global projects, whilst helping with small individual restoration jobs and everything in between, we are proud as ever to offer our expertise no matter how big or small a demand may be.

We look forward to continuing our journey into our 52nd Year in 2023 and further developing the relationship between our Companies.

Thanks again for being part of our journey, I wish you and yours a Very Merry Christmas and all the best for the New Year.


With thanks and best wishes

Jon Hague and the all the team at Hague Fasteners

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Conflict in the Ukraine Statement

Conflict in the Ukraine Statement

Hague Fasteners condemns, in the strongest possible terms, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. We express our solidarity and sympathy with the Ukrainian people at these times of peril and deeply regret the loss of human lives due to military action.

Hague Fasteners strongly deplore and condemn the invasion of Ukraine by Russia that is currently underway. This unprovoked attack on the territorial integrity of Ukraine is a clear violation of international rules, and it poses a real threat to peace and security in Europe and beyond.

Hague Fasteners supports the conclusions of the special meeting of the European Council of 24 February 2022. The agreed sanctions must enter into force immediately and be vehemently upheld. These sanctions sent a message to the Russian leadership that the international community will not tolerate Russian military and aggressive actions on the territory of another country.

For this military attack on Ukraine the leaders and elite of Russia and Belarus are responsible. People and business owners widely condemn these barbaric actions. Therefore, European Institutions and national governments should put forward contingency measures to protect EU citizens, enterprises and workers active in Ukraine, Russia and Belarus.

Hague Fasteners do not accept developments that threaten democracy and the functioning of the free market. We wholly support sanctions that will now impact directly or indirectly all businesses and of course these sanctions have an effect on global supply chains.

This conflict shows again the importance of a strong and united World where we all stand up to aggression affecting our brothers and sisters facing oppression in all corners of the World.

Hague Fasteners Risk Exposure & Operational Resilience

Hague Fasteners has no suppliers in Russia, Belarus nor Ukraine, the direct impact of the conflict to materials availability is minimal to zero. Our sourcing in surrounding countries both sourced directly and indirectly through our approved suppliers network totals a very limited part of our procured materials volume and can be, because of its generic nature, easily redirected.

We do, however, anticipate indirect impact which may affect supplies, particularly cost levels, for instance transportation, energy costs etc. At this point the world is dealing with increased levels of unpredictability and uncertainty, whilst continuing to deal with the effects and aftermath of a global pandemic.

We are closely monitoring the situation and will keep our news channel updated of any developing implications.

Download our Conflict In Ukraine StatementPDF
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Albrighton Cricket Club Sponsor

Hague Fasteners are proud to announce they have become the sponsors of local Albrighton Cricket Club for the 2022/2023 Season.

Hague Fasteners have made a donation to the club to become the Players Leisure Shirt Sponsor with our Company featured around the ground and an the players leisure shirts worn by the team to arrive at matches and socialise in after games.

Albrighton Cricket club have made a big push through their crowd-funder site following support from Sport England, enhancing their fundraising with incentives to the club. All of the clubs fundraising is going direct in to the Clubhouse redevelopment fund and Hague Fasteners are proud to help in their efforts in support of the local community.

Albrighton Cricket Club has been established for over one hundred years and currently have two teams playing in the Shropshire County Cricket League, a Sunday Social XI, a growing Junior Section coaching both boys and girls in all age groups and their hugely popular Ladies Softball Team named ‘The Roses.’

The clubhouse was originaly built in 1988 and the changing facilities in the mid-seventies, both are in need of bringing up-to-date to meet new ECB criteria. Throughout the year Albrighton Cricket Club host many club events and community events attracting people from a wide network including their main community event of Bonfire & Firework night. The opportunity for sponsorship gives us the opportunity to advertise to their community and countywide visitors through both cricket and tennis.

We wish Albrighton Cricket club all the best for the forthcoming season and to their exciting re-development ambitions.

If you are able to help support Albrighton Cricket Club with their re-development please donate via their Crowdfunding Page Here.