Overcoming challenges in critical industrial applications
The launch of the BUMAX 88 and BUMAX 109 grades were milestones that went far beyond standard product development. BUMAX 88 was developed to match the strength of 8.8 carbon steel, while BUMAX 109 was designed to match the strength of high tensile 10.9 carbon steel bolts. This completely defied the common understanding that stainless steel fasteners were not as strong as carbon steel. On top of this, the specific A4/316L grade used by BUMAX meant it offered higher corrosion resistance than generic A4/316 fasteners commonly found on the market.
Furthermore, BUMAX 88 was evaluated for a material appraisal for suitability in pressure equipment and systems designed according to the Pressure Equipment Directive (PED). This was seen as a way to support segments including oil and gas, chemical processing and pharmaceutical manufacturing. The PED governs equipment operating under elevated pressure, vessels, piping, valves, heat exchangers and the safety assemblies that hold them together.
By achieving this PED appraisal, BUMAX validated its quality systems, material traceability, mechanical performance and documentation capabilities against some of the most rigorous technical requirements, making fastener selection and evaluation an easier process for engineers.