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Australasian WireIndustry
Association
The Wire LinkNewsletter
Issue No. 38May 2017
Incorporating: Australasian Fence Industry Association; Australian Chain Link Fencing Association; Temporary Fence AssociationAustralasia; Spring Manufacturers Association & Wire Workers; Reinforcing Steel Manufacturers Association
THE WIRE LINKNOTE FROM AWIA PRESIDENT 2016 / 17
Hello to all our members,sponsors and anyone elsereading.
It’s been a busy year so farfor many of our membersaccording to the conversationat our mini conference inMelbourne on the 9th of thismonth, where nearly 30people turned out to hear agreat array of speakers andenjoy some AWIA fellowshipand fun. There was also theopportunity to visit NationalManufacturing week.
The highlight had to be the dinner on the Tuesday night atthe Wharf hotel which proceeded with a volume andenthusiasm that I have come to expect and thoroughly enjoyfrom members of this association. The other surprisinghighlight was the conference venue, The RenaissanceHotel. Formerly the commercial travellers club in FlindersStreet, it is rather beautiful and steeped in history. Havinglived in Melbourne for most of my life, I never knew thisbuilding existed, and it was great to discover it.
If you haven’t been to a mini conference as yet or joined usat the main conference in association with the SteelInstitute then put September 17-19 in the calendar as theseare great days (and nights) where there is the opportunity tolearn a little and have fun with like-minded people from ourindustry.
A huge thank you to Richard Newbigin for all theorganisation of the mini conference and to his wife Margaretwho was a wonderful help. Also to the delegates, old andnew, who took the time to come and join in and make theday such a great success.
I hope this year is goingvery well for you and yourbusiness, and I lookforward to seeing you inQueensland in September.
Sincerely
TEMPORARY SITE SECURITYGOES HIGH TECH
Risks associated with unauthorized entry, potential injury to thepublic and the possibility of theft has encouraged the installationof temporary perimeter fencing on many major engineering andinfrastructure construction sites. However, manning entry pointshas added additional labour costs and contractors sometimesfind it difficult engaging suitable employees to diligently carryout this task.ATF Services have found a solution with the “Smart SolarGate” system.
This temporarygate system hasthe followingfeatures:
Its free standing, no ground penetration easy levellingsystem
6 metre clear span opening Wireless entrance solution Opens double gate with smart phone Includes 2 customisable security cameras Instantly opens gate for exiting vehicles
More information www.atfvision.com.au
AWIA Sponsors
Charles JohnstoneSee inside for a special 4page chain-link fencing
feature on chain-linkmanufacturing and
compliance requirements
Fencing Members
0508 TempFence1300TempFenceAAC Temp Fence
Advanced National ServicesAdvanced Steel Products Ltd
Aim HireAll Temporary Fencing
Ambit IndustriesAnchor Wire NZ
ARC FencesATF Services
Atlas Rodek FencingAustralian Security Fencing
Australian Steel & WireCAI Fences
Carrick Hoarding HireCenturion Temporary FencingChainmesh Security FencingCitywide Temporary Fencing
Coast Wire FencingCrown Temporary Fencing
Diamond Fence (Aust) Pty LtdDiscount Fencing
Doogood Powder Coating Pty LtdDownee
Emu Wire IndustriesFahey Fence Hire
Fence IQFencepac
Fencescape FencingFence WorksFenceWright
Fencing & Gate CentreFencing Australia Pty Ltd
Fencing VictoriaFrauenfelder
GHL TempFenceGlennwire Fencing Pty Ltd
JSB Fencing & Machinery HireKeena Fencing
Lee Bros FencingMesh Industries Group
MP Mesh ProductsMesh Works
Olympic Fencing Pty LtdOtter Fencing
Oxford PlasticsPlaysafe Fencing Pty Ltd
Protective Fencing Pty LtdReady Fence NSW
Secura Fence and FabricationSiteTech Solutions
Superior Fences and GatesSupreme Fence & Gate (Aust)
Supreme Line FencingSupreme Wire Fence and Gates
Taylor FencingTemporary Fence HireThe Temp Fence Shop
Titan Hoarding SystemsTotem Fencing
Ultracourts Pty LtdVater Hardware Group
Victorian Temporary FencingVisible Temporary Fencing
The Wire L inkIssue No. 38
Page 2
VICTORIANREPORT
The Victorian led project to develop aNational Code of Practice for MetalSliding Gates has unfortunatelyprogressed slower than had been hoped.The draft scope has been completed andcirculated to a number of industry stake-holders for comment, including State safetyregulators.
Feedback has already been received fromsome interstate sliding gate manufacturerson specific items they feel need to becovered in the proposed document.
It has been stressed by some respondentsthe code should only address the principlesof design and manufacturing processesimpinging on operator and public safety. Itshould not try to prescriptively describe howto design or manufacture gates.
It is hoped to arrange a meeting of thesliding gate working group in August 2017to review the work which has been done sofar and to tackle the task of expanding thesections’ headings.
The Temporary Fencing and Hoardingindustry working group are also scheduledto meet in mid-July to table their work onthe review of Australian StandardAS4687.
Contact:[email protected]
NEW ZEALANDREPORT
During February and March, RichardNewbigin visited Auckland and Wellingtonand met with National Spring & WireProducts NZ, Anchor Wire, EdgesmithASPL, Fahey Fence Hire, Wire Displays,Superior Industries and NZ SpringWorks.
There was significant interest from themembers visited in attending the Wire &Tube Show in Dusseldorf in 2018 sobusiness confidence seems strong.
It was good to see that succession plans atmany companies are working well with newgenerations having taken over the reins, or,in the process of doing so, at Anchor Wire,Superior Industries and NZ SpringWorks.Richard hopes to visit other New Zealandmembers before the end of the year.
WESTERN AUSTRALIAREPORT
In association with a number of localcolleagues, the Association is
planning to undertake a campaign promotingthe benefits to Perth municipal Councils ofmandating the installation of temporary fencingon residential construction sites.
As well as site security, the containment ofbuilding packaging materials and the reductionin damage to Council kerbing has been a factorin the decision for so many east coast Councilsto make temporary fencing part of their by-laws.
NEW SOUTH WALESREPORT
Under the tutelage of John Morris aNSW working group is preparing a submission toStandards Australia to initiate a new AustralianStandard for “High Security Anti-intruder fencesin chain-link and welded wire mesh”. Such anAustralian standard will bring Australia in linewith relevant international standards such as theBritish standard BS EN 172.10 and the Americanstandard ASTM. F1712. According to John, thecritical imperative of the proposal is to demon-strate the need for, and the net benefit andimpact of, the proposed standard on theAustralian community.
The heightened risk of criminal and terroristactivities along with non-compliant products willunderpin the case for a more specific, relevantand contemporary Australian standard.
It is hoped that the proposal will be ready to beconsidered by Standards Australia in their nextround of standard deliberations later in 2017.
Members are urged to contact John if they cancontribute any information which will assist inpreparing the submission or if they are a stake-holder in the higher security fencing sector.
Contact [email protected]
SOUTH AUSTRALIAREPORT
Secretary Brian Mullarvey metwith a number of sliding gateindustry manufacturers in Adelaide
in March 2017 seeking input on the scope forthe proposed National Code of Practice forsliding metal gates. The Association thanksGrant Murdoch and Downee for making theiroffice available for the meeting.
Participants made a number of suggestions foritems which could be included in the proposeddocument. These included post design, selectionof support rollers, design of gate receivers,screening and guarding, criteria for track founda-tions, risk analysis, handover documentation,and other suggestions on safety and automation.
It is intended to consult with stakeholders inother states during coming months.
Page 3The Wire L inkIssue No. 38
WE WELCOME NEW MEMBER
Oxford Plastics have been a manufacturer of plastic productssince 1985 including being a leading manufacturer of recycledplastic fence feet in the UK. Involved in international trade sincethe late 90’s Oxford supplies markets in USA, Europe andAustralia.
Oxford Plastics have been supplying temporary fencing feet andother safety products to the Australian market for the past 15years. Probably they are better known in Australia formanufacturing and supplying Telstra pit covers.
Contact: Joel Evans 0455 020 680
International Trade Fairs & Exhibitions - 2018Fencetech - Phoenix USA.
5 - 9th February 2018
Dusseldorf Wire Exhibition - Germany16 - 20th April 2018
China International Wire & Cable Industry Trade Fair -Shanghai
6 - 29th September 2018
REPORT FROM AWIADIRECTOR
Membership certificates have notbeen sent out for a few years now sowe will send out new certificates forthe 2017/8 year, once payment ofsubscription dues has been received.
At our last committee meeting, theStrategic Plan for the Associationwas reviewed for the next two years.A copy of the Plan will be sent to members with the MembershipCertificates. The Plan is a fluid and dynamic document, andmember input will be welcomed. It gives us a good framework tomove forward with, and is designed to be achievable within thebudget constraints we work to.
One of the matters it does not directly address is how we growour industry. The diversity of the industry means a single avenueto growth is probably unlikely, but I would love to hear from themarketers among you with some ideas. As an example, SPASA,the swimming pool and spa association, choose to grow theirindustry by promoting pools as an investment that enriches yourlife and improves your health. Industry growth is obviously apriority for all members.
Our May Conference in Melbourne was well supported,informative and fun, and thanks to all members who attended.Our next conference is on 19 September on the GoldCoast and will be held in conjunction with the ASIConvention. Please put the date in your calendars.
New Technical Manager at Vater
Vater welcomed back Matt Curry as their new TechnicalSales Manager.
Matt had previously been with Vater a few short years ago.
Matt’s 20 year involvement in the construction industry hasgiven him a wealth of knowledge of Vater products bothfrom his involvement with them in a R&D capacity forVater, but also as an estimator and project manager forend users of their products.
According to Trish Riddell,Vater’s National Sales SupportManager, they consider he willbe an integral part of their salesteam and will help out on anational level with all customers’technical enquires.
Matt’s contact details are0418 119 100
Retirements at Crown Temporary fencing
Director, Leo Di Giambattista recently announced the saleof the Crown Temporary Fencing business to SuperSafe Hire of Bayswater in Melbourne and his retirementfrom the industry.
Leo, along with wife Rosanna and partner Lou Perri,formed Crown Temporary Fencing in 1999.
An early member of the TFAA since 2003, Leo was amember of the original Technical working group in 2006which produced the AS4687 Australian StandardTemporary Fencing and Hoardings.
Leo has remained an active member of TFAA untilrecently and participated in the working group whichprepared the submission to Standards Australia for thereview of AS4687 Temporary Fencing and Hoardings.
Our thanks go to Leo for his valuable contribution to theindustry.
Photo:
Top: Leo & Rosanna DiGiambattista,
Front: Lou & Pierina Perri
at their retirementcelebration dinner inMelbourne
Page 4The Wire L inkIssue No. 38
AS4687 STANDARDREVIEW
Director Richard Newbigin and TFAA Secretary BrianMullarvey along with a number of other industry and safetystakeholders attended the inaugural meeting of the CE-008Australian Standards’ Technical committee in Sydney on 2ndMay 2017.
The CE-008 committee is charged by Standards Australiawith conducting the review of the temporary fencing andhoarding standard AS4687. Our TFAA industry workinggroup will meet in early July 2017 to formulate proposedchanges and additional insertions which will be submitted tothe CE-008 committee for consideration for inclusion in thenew standard.
Progress, October 2016, the review working group at theMelbourne meeting determined a suggestion be made to theStandards Technical Review committee to split the currentAS 4687 Standard into several sections. The intent wouldprovide temporary fencing and temporary hoardings their ownplatforms of detailed and specific information. Each might besplit further, temporary fencing may cover dealing with windand shade cloth installations, whereas temporary hoardinghas its own unique challenges such as use inside retailshopping centres with heights of 5.0m and greater.
Greg Bloom of Titan Hoarding Systems will be coordinatingthe preparation of possible suggestions related to temporaryhoardings. We welcome stakeholders’ suggestions that couldimprove the safety and stability of temporary Fencing andHoardings.
Please send suggestions to:Greg :[email protected] TemporaryHoardingsFor more information on otheraspects of the TemporaryFencing Standard review
contact either :Richard Newbigin: [email protected] orBrian Mullarvey : [email protected]
VALE - LES FOREMANSadly we report on the passing of Les Foreman.
Les, along with wife Lorraine,purchased Keena Fencing inMelbourne in 1985. The companywas previously owned by HubertKeena, his father-in-law. Les hadalready been a fencing sub-contractor for over 10 years. In1997 he designed and produced hisown interlocking temporary panelsystem which subsequently led tothe establishment of KeenaTemporary Fencing in 2000.
Les was a great supporter of qualityworkmanship and contributed toboth the Temporary Fencing &
Hoarding standard working group in 2006 and then between2008 and 2010 worked on the Technical committee whichreviewed the chain-link fencing series of standards.
Les semi-retired in 2013 to become a part-time golfer. KeenaFencing will continue to operate as a family business underhis son Adam’s management.
Something New
Slope Motion Controller (SMC) – DedicatedGate Safety
Sliding gates are often installed on a slope. The gate rollingdown a slope places considerable stress on a motor, yet fewpeople consider the potential for the owner unlocking themotor resulting in a “runaway gate”. Additionally the risk isincreased if the motor used isn’t strong enough to handle theincreased loads of pushing a gate up a slope, then slowing itdownhill. An under-spec’d motor and the risk of a gearboxfailure is real.
A compact, one-way hydraulic damper, the SMC’s piniongear engages with the drive rack providing substantialresistance to the gate rolling downhill. The resistance forceadjusts to match gate weight to a slope angle.
SMC is insurance againstpotential disaster.
Contact Downee for details.
Application of Non–Climbing Zones inTemporary Pool Fencing
A number of city and suburban Councils appear to beapplying similar installation requirements for temporary poolfencing as for permanent pool safety barriers with regards tonon-climbing zones (NCZ). When temporary pool fencingabuts balconies or step-downs installers can be required toerect a perpendicular panel, without footholds, which canmeet the 900mm NCZ requirement.
This photo demonstrates how Tony Cross at AAC TempFence in Ballarat, Victoria tackles the problem. He installs a2.4x1.8 shade cloth covered panel adjoining the step-upwhich has satisfied the relevant building surveyors in hisarea.
In the proposal submitted by the AWIA to StandardsAustralia to review AS4687 Temporary fencing andHoardings it was suggested a new section be included inthe new standard specifically detailing the requirements oftemporary pool fencing. The CE008 Standards technicalCommittee has commenced work on reviewing the oldstandard and a revised standard is expected to be availablein the next 18 months or so.
Page 5The Wire L inkIssue No. 38
CHAIN-LINK FENCING FEATURE - What is Chain-link Fabric?Most chain link fabric is made from either heavy (heavy duty) or standard (light duty)galvanized or PVC coated steel wire. The vertical wires are bent into a zig-zag patternso that each "zig" hooks with the wire immediately on one side and each "zag" with thewire immediately on the other. This forms the characteristic diamond pattern seen inthis type of fencing. More recently zinc/aluminum and fuse-bonded polymer chain-linkhave been added to the range.
Photo: Chain-link fencing at Woomera airport installed by Fencing Australia
AFIA Members Manufacturing Chain Link Fabric
Elgate’s range of unique, purpose designed fencing productsis unrivalled for simplicity and value giving you the biggestchoice when you look for quality, strength, durability and
performance in fence fittings
www.vaterhardware.com
What are the options for Chain-Link sportsboundary fencing?
AS1725 provides five design options for use by councils,schools and sporting clubs for boundary fencing around sportsand playing fields.Types 1- 4 for boundary fencings around playing fieldsType 5 for domestic applications where light durability isacceptable
More info see AS1725. Part 5 Figures F1, G1, H1, I1 and J1
State /Country
Company Sales Contactnumber
Email contact
Victoria ARC Fences
Discount Fencing
Otter Fencing
1800 336 237
(03) 5248 1376
1300856 833
NSW Olympic Fencing
Protective Fencing
Fencing & Gate Centre
Playsafe Fencing
(02) 4008 0888
(02) 43404411
(02) 9625 4244
1800 366 999
Queensland Coast Wire Fencing (07) 5525 3488 [email protected]
West Australia CAI Fencing (08) 9271 9933 [email protected]
Tasmania Supreme Line Fencing 0417 554 900 [email protected]
New Zealand Anchor Wire 64.9.2666 666 [email protected]
Look for Elgate Chain-linkGate & Fence Fittings
Type Interposts
Piperails
Type 4 DN40 DN32
Type 5 DN40 DN32
Chain linkfabric
3.15mm HD
2.5mm LD
Service Life(Durability)
Light
Extra Light
Type 3 DN40 DN40 3.15mm HD Medium
Type 2 DN50 DN40 3.15mm HD Heavy
Type 1 DN50 DN50 3.15mm HD Extra Heavy
Page 6The Wire L inkIssue No. 38
CHAIN-LINK FENCING FEATURE - History of the Development of Chain-Link FencingManufacturing
Whist the history of modern wire making goes back some 500 years or so, wire as a fence product can be traced back to themid-19th century.During this time chain-link fabric has had many names including Chainwire and Chainmesh as well as wire-mesh fencing,Diamond fencing, Cyclone fencing.The original production of Chainwire fencing started with Charles Barnard of Norwich in the UK. The Norwich area was wellknown for the manufacture of cloth and by using this local cloth weaving methodology Barnard created a method for weavingChainwire in 1844.Anchor Fence Company were the first company to be granted a US patent and introduced chain-link to that country in 1845,using the same weaving method introduced by Barnard.Also possibly inspired by wool and cotton trade, in 1893 in Germany Ernst Wagner established a workshop in Pfullingen toweave thin wires. Wagner was a partner in a firm which became the internationally known machine company WAFIOS. Asearly as 1905 Wagner’s wire fencing machines had won prizes at Exhibitions in London and Brussels.
Photo: Early WAFIOS chain-link machine from turn of the 20th century
By 1914 WAFIOS had improved on its single-spiral machine and had developeda double-spiral model which significantly improved the output. Besides makinggalvanised chain-link it could also weave plastic coated mesh. Over theintervening years WAFIOS has produced and shipped countless wire weavingmachines all around the world.Italian immigrant, Frank Bergandi, is widely credited with making the first auto-mated chain-link machine in the United States in 1927. Bergandi Machinery isnow a major supplier of chain-link weaving machines to the international markettoday.
The Australian history of chainmesh is somewhat cloudy; early records on chain-link manufacturers are rather scant as manymanufacturing companies were either amalgamated or ceased operation. Much of the remaining history is only in the memoryof some of the long serving participants in the industry.Some early Australian Chain mesh manufacturers not now operating include Chucks Fencing, Austral Wire Fencing, ScottWire and Diamond Fencing in Sydney, and other Victorian companies such as Arnolds and Tames.The “Cyclone” brand logo is still alive today after 119 years.
Page 7The Wire L inkIssue No. 38
CHAIN-LINK FENCING FEATURE (History continued)
For over 100 years, the iconic brand “Cyclone” has been marketed in the Australian chain-link marketplace. The CycloneFence and Gate Company was established in Melbourne in 1898 by Leonard Chambers and William Thompson, afterhaving successfully secured the Australian Manufacturing rights for “Cyclone” woven wire fencing from the USA. By the1920’s the company had established separate manufacturing plants in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. Thoughmany of the original product concepts and technologies used by the company originated overseas, Cyclone established areputation for innovative products adapted specifically for the Australian market.Subsequent Cyclone owners, Boral continued to invest heavily in the latest fencing technology. Juergen Arndt of Bliss &Reels well remembers a significant sale of eight DF51 chain-link weaving machines to Boral Cyclone in 1981, it being his firstyear in sales with Bliss & Reels. Rohan White at ARC Fences says the majority of these machines are still in service today.Even today, the Cyclone brand name is synonymous with the public’s perception of chainmesh fencing. It’s nowmanufactured and marketed by ARC Fences.Peter Arnold at Supreme Fencing & Gates recalls his grandfather Herbert Arnold making chain-link on a hand operatedmachine in a small shed at the back of his house in Coburg in Melbourne. The mesh was for his son, the original owner andfounder of Arnold Fencing. Herbert had commenced manufacturing chain-link in the 50’s.Another Melbourne manufacturer, Ray Otter at Otter Fencing remembers that his father, Jack, commenced makingchain-link in 1960 on a WAFIOS AF41 single wire weaving machine.In NSW, Protective Fencing was established by Craig Gibbens in 1975. Craig then purchased a WAFIOS DF5 machineand commenced manufacturing chain-link fabric. The Gibbens family had long been involved in wire and spring makingventures.
Protective Fencing has now become a leader in its field withover 7 machines.The chain-link fencing industry, in concert with most of themanufacturing sector, has experienced increased competitionand cost pressures from imported products in recent times.In researching this article it’s become obvious that there arelots of gaps in the history of our industry. We will try to remedythis by trying to pull together a more comprehensive history.It’s gladdening to know, however, that the majority of chain-linkfabric is still manufactured in this country to the same highstandards set by the early industry pioneers.If you have any information or photos on the early history wewould be glad to receive them.
Photo: WAFIOS DF51 at Protective Fencing in Sydney.
Doogood Powder Coating are specialists in powdercoating for the commercial fence industry.
Steel tube supplies Powder Coating (10 metre
ovens) In-house sand blasting Standard powder-coated fence
posts in stock Manufacturing
Hallam Victoria (03) 9708 6116
Page 8The Wire L inkIssue No. 38
Australianstandard
Name of standard Applications / content
AS 2423-2002 Coated steel wireand fencing
Covers requirements forbroad range of fencingproducts wire/chain-linkfabric/ welded mesh panels /barbwire etc.
AS 1725-2010.1
Chain-link fencing –Security fences &gates
Minimum requirements formaterials and workmanshipfor security fences and gates
AS 1725-2010.2
Tennis court fencing-- Commercial
Tennis court fencing for useby schools, Councils andsporting clubs
AS 1725-2010.3
Chain-link TennisCourt fencing -Residential
Construction of tennis courtfencing for private andresidential fencing only
AS 1725-2010.4
Chain-link cricket netfencing enclosures
Range of cricket practice netfencing
AS 1725-2010.5
Chain-link sportsground fencing
Range of alternative designsfor boundary fencing forsports grounds
AS/NZS1163.2016
Cold-formedstructural steelhollow sections
Requirements for manufac-ture and supply of structuralgrade steel hollow sections
AS 1074-1989 Steel tubes andtubulars for ordinaryservice
Wall thickness requirementsfor service grade threadedand plain end steel tubesused in fencing
AS/NZS 4534 -2006
Zinc and Aluminium–alloy coating onsteel wire
Requirements forzinc/aluminium–alloy coat-ings on steel wire and onfabricated products
AS 4506 - 2005 Metal finishing –Thermoset powdercoating
Requirements for powdercoatings applied to metalsubstrates
How Chain Mesh is MeasuredMesh size is expressed as the nominalinternal distance between the wiresforming the parallel sides of the meshdiamond and is referred to as the pitch.Most Australian chain-link varies between25mm to 60mm.
Pitch Toleranceson Chain LinkFabric
Support CablesIn the Australian Standard AS1725-2010Part 1, it specifies “support cables shall beof the same quality as selected for thechain-link fabric eg HG support cable withHG chain-link.
Nominalsize mesh
Toleranceon mesh
size25 mm +/- 3 mm
40 mm +/- 3 mm
45 mm +/- 4 mm
50 mm +/- 4 mm
60 mm +/- 4 mm
CHAIN-LINK FENCING FEATURE Australian Standards Relating to Manufactureor Installation of Metal Fencing
These Australian Standards are availablein hard copy or electronic editions eitherdownloaded individually from Standards’
website or via on-line and DVD subscriptionservices.
Contact SAI Global Customer servicePhone 13 12 42. Email:[email protected]
Page 9The Wire L inkIssue No. 38
MAY MINI CONFERENCEThe Rendezvous Hotel in Flinders St, Melbourneprovided a sensational venue for our one day confer-ence. The vestibule outside our conference room wasdesigned by the interior designer of the Titanic, but, inspite of some technical glitches, we managed to keepthe day well afloat. A pre-conference dinner wasenjoyed in the less than salubrious Celestial Lane inMelbourne’s Chinatown.
Our conference day started with Corrina Dowling fromFCB Lawyers talking about some recent bizarre caselaw developments. She cited a case where it seemedapparent the Fair Work Commission (FWC) had nottaken its cue from the Human Rights Commission.The FWC imposed the reinstatement of an employeesacked for making racist and homophobic comments.
In 2017 there will also be a 10 fold increase in individualand company penalties with the search powers of theFair Work Ombudsman being strengthened.
Our next speaker, Vas Banschikov, gave us an insightinto work he has done in restructuring a family companyto put it on a growth path for the future, including theimportance of frank discussion with family membersabout their perceived role in, and commitment to, thecompany’s future direction.
Peter Golding of the Galvanisers Association talkedabout the ever present danger of rust with the ratherstaggering statistic that globally 1 tonne of steelcorrodes every second. Peter’s overriding messagewas that to get what you want, you need to specify itfully; eg don’t just ask for ‘gal pipe’.
Mei Leong from OneSteel provided a report on localand international economies. The Australian economyis showing increasing consumer and business confi-dence, with forecast infrastructure spending expectedto be very strong. The continued urbanisation in Chinaand India is expected to grow by 30 to 40% by 2030,with India’s GDP expected to pass Japan’s by 2025,and with China likely to be the world’s largest economyby 2030.
Darren Edmunds gave a presentation on the factorsimpacting on world wire pricing and its possiblefluctuations over the next six months or so, and theanswer is up!
The day was completed with a visit to NationalManufacturing Week and dinner at a local hotel on theYarra. Special thanks to all our presenters.
Richard Newbigin
Metallic Wire Coating Identifying Codes
Wire coating requirements specified in AS/NZS 4680
HINTS ON PVC CHAIN-LINK
Typical Diameters of Extruded PlasticCoated Wires
Metalliccoating
designation
Identifyingcode
Common use name
W02Z SG Standard Galvanised
W10Z HG Heavy Galvanised
W05Z5A ZA Zinc/aluminium. egLife Max
W10Z5A HZA Zinc/aluminiumHeavy eg LifeMax XL
Confusion sometimesarises when PVC fencing
fabric is specified or notedon drawings. Some
specifiers are unaware PVCis called up using the
diameter of the metalliccore wire, not the nominalor the outside diameter of
the PVC wire
Commonidentifying
code
Nominaldiameter
ofmetallic
Basewire
Diameterrange forextrudedplasticcoated
wire
Commonusage
1.57 mmPVC
1.57 2.07-2.27 Tie wire
2.00 mmPVC
2.00 2.50-2.70 Lacing wire
2.50 mmPVC
2.50 3.20-3.50 Chain-linkfabric
3.15 mmPVC
3.15 3.95-4-35 Chain-linkfabric
4.00 mmPVC
4.00 4.80-5.20 Cable wire
Tie Wire and ClipsParagraph 3.10 in AS1725 states that tie wire to securechain-link fabric to cables shall be single strand 1.57mmdiameter core wire or optionally 2.00mm diameter core wirenetting clips, same quality as chain-link fabric.
Page 10
Making friends in Düsseldorf
Discussions have commenced with local and internationalrepresentatives of Messe Dusseldorf GmbH aboutAssociation members attending Wire & Tube Dusseldorfbetween 16 - 20 April 2018.
In 2016, 70,000 visitors attended the joint show, 75% ofthose being international. 1,335 wire exhibitors extendedover 59,000m2 of exhibition space, with 1,277 exhibitorsoccupying over 51,000m2 in Tube.
Next year, there will be a focus on glass fibre and plastictubes, not our typical product lines but definitely worth hav-ing a look at.
Ticket cost is 58 Euros for a single day pass, and 98 Eurosfor 5 day entry. Catalogues cost 32 Euros.
Eight member companies have so far indicated theirintention to attend this important trade show. If you wish toadd your name to the list please contact :
Need to Get Engineering Advice
The practice of attaching shade cloth or solid promotionalplastic banners to tennis court and sporting fencing isbecoming more prevalent. To avoid fence failures andmore importantly injury to the public, engineering designadvice should be sought if the height of the chain-linkfences exceed the heights detailed in AS1725 or if shadecloth or banners are attached.
Photos: Examples of failed sporting chain-link fenceswhere shade cloth or banners have been attached
DEVELOPMENT OFRANGE OF FLUXES FORHOT DIP GALVANIZINGOF STEEL WIRE
The manufacturing sector is constantly under pressure toensure appropriate consideration be given to the environmentand safe working practices. With this in mind, PANCHEMICALS S.p.A of Italy has developed a range of fluxes forhot dip galvanizing of steel wire. Two products being usedglobally are the PANFLUX5600 and the ALUFLUX 5610.
PANFLUX 5600 is applied to standard zinc coating. Keyfeatures:
Low concentration make up 8-12% 100% soluble, eliminating the issue of undissolved salts
at the bottom of the application vessel. Low temperature operation from ambient up to max 40C.
Energy costs reduced. Reduction in bottom dross and zinc oxide and ash
formation, therefore minimising reclamation costs. More uniform alloy layer between the steel and the zinc
coating. Lowers zinc consumption.
ALUFLUX 5610: Developed for the surface treatment ofgalvanized carbon steel wires before passing into zinc-aluminium alloy (Galfan). Functions by removing traces ofoxide, by etching the surface promoting adhesion between thezinc-iron alloy and the zinc-aluminium alloy.
The ALUFLUX 5610: Key features :
Low concentration make up 15 % (weight/volume) 100% soluble, eliminating the issue of undissolved salts
at the bottom of the application vessel.
Operates at temperatures between 40C-60C
APAC Wire Technologies [email protected] products and services including tungsten carbide rollsused in cold rolling of wire for reinforcing welded mesh as wellas a regrinding service for worn and or damaged rolls.Australian manufactured high tensile spiral post descalebrushes are also available ex-stock Melbourne
Agencies include:
PAN CHEMICALS, S.p.A of Milan, ITALYwww.panchemical.com
EURODRAW, S.p.A of Milan, ITALY:www [email protected]
DEM Costruzioni Speciali S.r.l Udine , ITALYwww.demills.com
QED WIRELINES, Quebec CANADAwww [email protected]
GMP – SLOVAKIAwww gmp-slovakia.com
The Wire L inkIssue No. 38
The Wire L inkIssue No. 38 Page 11
Acquisition of GibbensIndustries by Marsh Springs
March 2017, Australia’s largestspring maker, Marsh Springs,acquired Gibbens Industries, (thespring business of the Gibbensgroup) with the intention of enablingMarsh Springs to strengthen itsposition in the Australian spring andmetal product market, and furtherenhance supply opportunitiesoverseas.
Whilst Gibbens Industries will trade as ThomasMarsh & Co, operations will continue at Gibbens sitefor the majority of 2017.Marsh Springs, located in Carol Park west ofBrisbane, has over past years extended its productrange beyond springs with wire and other metalproducts and has successfully acquired a number ofother spring companies. Marsh Springs is a familybusiness which has beentrading for more than 60years.According to ManagingDirector, Greg Marsh, “theacquisition of GibbensIndustries by Marsh Springscombines two of the strongestbrands in the Australianspring industry with acomplimentary product andservice offering”.More information contact:
Sales Manager Marsh Springs, Peter Bell(07) 3271 3500.
CHINA REPORT
Manufacturing of Galvanised wire in China’s Anping areastill continues to be difficult. The government has bannedproduction of any Heavy Galvanised material for the lasttwo weeks due to an international conference in Beijing.
Air pollution is still a hot topic in that region, even when yourmill does not pollute you are affected by blanket bans onproduction sprung on you whenever Beijing ison display to the world.
From our China Correspondent
Enterprise AgreementsUnder Fire
The well-known Beechworth Bakeries was the latest in astring of Australian businesses that have had their approvedEnterprise Agreements revoked by the Fair WorkCommission. The Beechworth EA was originally approvedlast year, after passing the FWC’s Better Off Overall Test(BOOT), and would provide workers with a higher base rateof pay in exchange for reduced penalty rates on weekends.However, the Shop Distributive Allied EmployeesAssociation (SDA) appealed this decision and won ongrounds that the BOOT had been incorrectly applied and thatsome workers would be disadvantaged.
This is just the latest in a string of EAs that have been turneddown by the FWC after dispute from an employee union.Last year, the famous Hart v. Coles decision saw a nation-wide EA revoked after its approval by the FWC. NegotiatingEAs to reduce penalty rates in exchange for a higher baserate of pay has been a long time practice of Australianbusinesses. However, due to this recent backlash fromunions resulting in the FWC overturning EA, it is important toseek expert legal advice to ensure the process runs assmoothly as possible.
FCB Group has extensive experience in negotiating EAsfor many Australian manufacturing businesses.
For more information: [email protected]
VALEALBERT BLASHKI
It is with regret we report the passing of Albert Blashki.OAM. JP.
Albert was a pioneer in the wireindustry, commencing work with hisfather, hand processing wire workat A Jones & Co in Fitzroy inMelbourne in 1945. From a homegarage in suburban Melbourne, hestarted ACE Wire Works in 1954,then after two years set up apurpose built facility in Springvale.The business further expanded andwas relocated to its present site atHallam in 1998.
Albert remained active in the business whilst into hisnineties, attending board meetings and according to his sonPhilip, “Albert continued to present ideas on how to improvethe business right up to his final days”. He was, says Philip,“a mentor to some, a father figure to many, a friend to all andwill be sadly missed”. Albert was nearly 98 when he passedaway.
have moved to new warehousefacilities at Commercial Court, Tullamarine, near MelbourneAirport. MD, Andy Greer, says the increased floor area willallow for expansion of their already extensive range ofstainless steel wire coils, panels, woven mesh and screens.
More info. www.sswm.com.au Tel: 1300 305 148
DATECLAIMER
Temporary Fencing and Hoarding workinggroup meeting – Mid July 2017
Australian Standards CE-008 TechnicalCommittee meeting 26th July 2017
ASI Convention / AWIA ConferenceSurfers Paradise 17 – 19th September2017
Victorian Chapter Fencing Meeting 9th
November 2017
Victorian AWIA Christmas gathering 30thNovember 2017
NSW AWIA Christmas Function earlyDecember 2017 (DTBA)
QANTAS Aquire ProgramIf you quote the AWIA ABN (95 602 035 937)when you make any Qantas bookings (flights,cars or hotels) you will also be earning pointsfor the AWIA. These points can then beused for travel approved by NationalCommittee.Points earned through this program do notaffect your own accumulation of frequent flyerpoints, they are completely additional.
Thanks for your assistance.
Page 12The Wire L inkIssue No. 38
WIRE AND SPRINGMEMBERS
Ability Works AustraliaAce Wire Works
Advanced Steel ProductsAM Wire Pte LtdAnchor Wire NZ
APAC Wire TechnologiesAriston Wire
Australian Steel & WireAustralian Mesh
Austube MillsAutomatic Wire
Bekaert InternationalSingapore
Better SpringsBliss & Reels
Boynes SpringsCastle International
Concept Wire IndustriesDoogood Powder Coating
FrauenfelderIcoa AustraliaIdee Parfait
Industrial EngineersJubilee Springs
M&F GroupMachinery Forum
Marsh Springs & MetalProducts
Mesh ProductsMP Mesh Products
Mesh WorksNational Springs & Wire
Products NZNZ Spring Works Ltd
One Steel Market MillsOne Steel ReinforcingProtective Wire Mesh
IndustriesProTube AsiaR.E. Walters
SanwaSmart Weld NZ Ltd
Spring Specialists LtdStainless Steel Wire and Mesh
Superior Industries NZUllrich Machinery Company
Wiredex Wire ProductsWiretainers Pty LtdWire Displays NZ
TRAINING AWARDThe Training Award is still up for grabs thisyear. One member has indicated theirintention to submit an application, but themore the merrier. The final applicationdate has been extended to June 30, 2017.All member companies may submitapplications to reward one or more of theirstaff whom they believe are deserving ofrecognition for their hard work orinventiveness in the wire industry.
The aim of this award is to keep goodpeople in the wire business by providingthem with the means to add to theirknowledge of the industry. It’s all abouteducation and support for your employeesto improve their worth to your business andto the industry as a whole.
So, if you have someone within your rankswhom you would like to recognise for theirachievements or dedication, please put theirnames forward, and we shall guide youthrough the application process. TheTraining Award Criteria is available in theNews section of the AWIA website.
http://www.wireassociation.com.au/sites/wireassociation.com.au/files/AwardCriteria_2017v4.pdfPlease remember that the Award isavailable to all staff - internal, external andfactory floor.Please [email protected]
Wire Requirements for GoodChrome Plating
As more products are chrome platedoverseas, the process has become lesswidespread in Australia. The availability ofoff the shelf plater’s quality wire has alsobecome less readily available.Manufacturers of wire products still needing“plating quality” wire need to consider thefollowing aspects when placing orders:
Specify that you require the wire forplating, which will allow your supplier toengineer the best product process route.
Ensure surface defects from potentialwiredrawing, handling and formingprocesses are minimised. This includesabrasion, steel hot rolling andwiredrawing scratches etc.
Minimise or eliminate adherent residuallubricant which will avoid the pinholeeffect that could potentially occur withchrome.
“The WIRE LINK”is an industry newsletter publication by theAustralasian Wire Industry Association Inc.
ABN 95 602 035 937 ARBN 103 377 537
Melbourne Office - PO Box 1210GGreythorn Vic 3104
Tel 1300 942 500
E-mail:[email protected]
Mobile: 0418 335 999
DisclaimerThe information contained in “The Wire Link”
newsletter has been prepared in good faith and isintended for general information only. Informationon products and industry practices are not to beconstrued as Association recommendations. The
views or opinions expressed in the newsletterarticles are not necessarily those held by the
AWIA.