Self tapping screw

Client: Cordek

Project type: Design to manufacture

Product features

The Cordek screw is a self-tapping fixing which can be fitted with a hammer - avoiding the use of a screwdriver. The Cordek screw makes its own thread and provides the same features as a regular screw. It is a tiny element of an overall Cordek protection system - but takes a fraction of the time to fit.

The Challenge

Cordek is at the forefront of developing innovative new construction solutions. In 2004 the West Sussex-based company won a prestigious contract to supply protection materials for the construction at Heathrow's new Terminal Five (T5) building.

As is so often the case with innovative, forward-looking companies, Cordek knew how its product required evolution - one small change that would make a dramatic difference to wider product effectiveness and overall efficiency.

Terminal 5 was a massive project and any construction work on such a huge area would take time. Cordek wanted to speed up the process and increase their efficiency on the project, by adapting one small element of their protection system - the screw that they were using to fix panels.

Instead of screwing-in each panel, which would take time, Cordek needed a self-tapping fixing which could be banged in with a hammer and make a secure connection.

The Process

Cordek approached MotionTouch to develop the screw. They broadly briefed MotionTouch on their T5 project and their protection system - and in much more detail on the screw they needed to make a significant improvement to the overall product.

MotionTouch then took the project forward with initial designs, to producing a prototype through to manufacturing the 25,000 screws required for the T5 project.

The Outcome

The Cordek screws were used to huge time-saving effect in the T5 project on the roof of what is certainly one of the most iconic buildings of our time.

Henry Powell, Client Director at MotionTouch commented; "We were delighted to assist Cordek with this small but vital part of such a significant project. We liaised closely with Trevor and formed a strong working partnership from design stage to manufacture. It was great to see Cordek evolve and improve their product design to such significant effect."

Trevor Larkin, Technical & Design Manager at Cordek added; "Without the fixing system and MotionTouch's expertise, Cordek would have found it more difficult to secure the order for the protection materials. In a very short space of time Henry's team turned around numerous prototypes for each fixing concept. This allowed us to keep ahead of the competition and secure a tremendous order."