Critical to the supply of stainless fasteners is ensuring that the stainless steel material conforms to international standards of stainless alloys. Historically there have been concerns of low nickel stainless steel being imported into New Zealand which is prone to rusting more quickly. So against this backdrop, to ensure that standards are met, Anzor operates a comprehensive quality assurance program that is based on 21 years of experience in the fastener industry and also international best practice. In this way we have confidence that the material we are supplying will perform as it’s supposed to.

Quality assurance starts with Anzor’s purchasing department. Speaking with Purchasing Officer, Lance Newman, he says that the key to our high quality stocks is investigating suppliers carefully to ensure they use the correct quality control procedures. This includes visiting factories in Asia, and building long-term relationships with suppliers – Jim, our MD has had relationships with some suppliers for over 30 years.

Next in quality assurance is our Material Testing Program undertaken by our Lead Quality Technician, Teau Dickson. Teau says that: “When you are doing anything in Quality Control, it’s all about following a system and using your initiative.” Anzor’s processes utilise an XRAY spectrometer that scientifically determines whether the stainless is within the international specification or not.

Quality is at the core of everything we do, our Joint CEO Jamie Hunt, summarises: “Nickel is a major factor in the price of stainless steel and also in its ability to resist corrosion.  Unfortunately, some offshore factories have made fasteners and fittings from stainless grades with low levels of Nickel such as 201 and 204 to sell as 304 and 316 grades.  Ensuring we have the highest quality supply chain is critical to us so we go even further by testing material composition upon arrival to make sure it is the grade it is meant to be to stand up to New Zealand’s harsh conditions.”