International experts discuss new standards and innovations
Meschede, March 2025 – Over 200 experts from ten nations came together for the fourth ITH Bolting Technology Conference in Meschede to discuss the latest developments, new standards, guidelines and innovative technologies in bolting technology. After a break due to the pandemic, the renowned specialist event was once again held at the South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences on March 19 and 20, 2025. With 16 top-class speakers and a wide-ranging program on the latest standards, design methods and assembly techniques for large bolt connections from M20, the conference offered an excellent platform for intensive professional exchange.
Focus: New standards and the future of bolting technology
A central topic was the presentation of the new VDI 2230 Sheet 3, which deals with safe assembly methods for bolt connections. The focus was also on the requirements of ISO 898-11 and ISO 898-12 for the mechanical properties of bolts and nuts. Another important point was Amendment 1 (AMD1) to IEC 61400-6, which has a significant impact on bolt connections and assembly methods in the wind energy industry.
Presentations on topics such as determining pre-load on large diesel engines, finite element analysis, ultrasound-based preload measurement using the Intellifast system and digital screw data management in the cloud were also met with particular interest.
The presentations and discussions were held in both German and English, which made the event particularly attractive to an international audience of experts. Participants from countries such as the USA, Brazil, Japan, Spain, Denmark and Norway emphasized the high professional quality of the conference as well as the valuable practical impulses.
Practical insights at ITH
In addition to the technical presentations and discussions, a specially designed practical day at ITH Bolting Technology was on the agenda on March 21, 2025. Here, participants had the opportunity to experience various screwdriving technologies and systems in practice. Not only was theoretical content explored in depth, but innovative production techniques and smart tools were also presented. Many visitors were particularly impressed by ITH Bolting Technology’s high level of vertical integration.
Dipl.-Ing. Frank Hohmann, Managing Director of ITH Bolting Technology, expressed his exterior satisfaction with the course of the event: “The symposium has once again shown that professional exchange is essential for the industry. We are delighted with the great international interest and the very positive feedback from the participants. The combination of scientific depth, practical relevance and networking makes this event an important meeting place for experts from all over the world.”
This positive response is also reflected in the participant survey: 97% of participants would recommend the event to others – including their colleagues. A strong vote that confirms the high professional and organizational standards of the ITH symposium.
The ITH Bolt Connections Conference has thus once again established itself as one of the most important events in the field of industrial bolt connections.
