TRW Acquires TACK Welding Technology

8 October 1999

TRW Acquires TACK Welding Technology

    CLEVELAND--Oct. 7, 1999--TRW Inc. and TACK Engineering GmbH today announced a transfer of TACK welding technology to TRW's Nelson(R) Stud Welding business.
    Under the agreement, TACK will transfer technology to TRW that eliminates the need for fixtures, reduces material handling and storage requirements, and allows limitless weld geometries in the arc welding process. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
    "This technology transfer represents an exciting growth opportunity for Nelson Stud Welding," says Frederick Clarke, vice president & general manager. "We look forward to working with the principals of TACK Engineering GmbH to exclusively market, sell and service these state-of-the-art TACK processes for stud welding fasteners and stamped brackets. Target markets will include automotive and heavy duty trucks, off-road equipment, lawn and garden equipment, heating and air conditioning, and major appliances.
    "Our technology," says Hartmut Ilch, managing director of TACK Engineering GmbH, "was designed to reduce costs, save time and improve accuracy in the tack welding process. The proprietary software and hardware also enables operating within close tolerances, elimination of fixturing, and quick changeovers."
    TACK Engineering GmbH was founded in 1993 and is a highly regarded innovator of closed loop TACK welding systems and GMAW rotary welding heads. TACK and Nelson have worked closely over the past four years in developing stud welding applications to complement each other's capabilities. "During the first year of this agreement," said Ilch, "we look forward to working closely with Nelson people to ensure continued high levels of service to TACK and Nelson customers."
    TRW Nelson(R) Stud Welding, the oldest and best-known name in stud welding, is the world's leading producer of stud welding fasteners and equipment. Headquartered in Elyria, Ohio, the business is being sold by TRW as part of the company's debt reduction activities following the purchase of LucasVarity earlier this year.
    TRW provides advanced technology products and services for the global automotive, aerospace and information systems markets. The company's news releases are available through TRW's corporate website, www.trw.com.