Nord-Lock wins for product innovation at Torque-Expo Awards 2026 

The Nord-Lock Group’s founding bolting-solutions brand, Nord-Lock, has won the Product Innovation Award – at the Torque-Expo Awards 2026 for its X-series of washers.  

Presented this year on 12 May at the Telford International Centre in the United Kingdom, the Torque-Expo Awards recognize notable achievements, innovative products, and positive initiatives across the fastener-tool sector.  

For Nord-Lock, the award acknowledges the significant accomplishment of developing the Nord-Lock® X-series of washers. Nord-Lock X-series washers combine wedge-locking technology with a conical design to prevent spontaneous bolt loosening and compensating for settlement. This patented combination enables reliable joint security under dynamic conditions. 

“We are extremely honored to be recognized by the Torque-Expo Awards,” says Graham Souter Vice President, Head of BU Nord-Lock. “This award is a clear reflection of the industry seeing how much of a transformative step forward the Nord-Lock X-series washers are and appreciating what it means for bolted joint security.”  

Nord-Lock X-series washers have been proven to be a comprehensive solution to multiple design challenges. They can keep bolts secure under severe vibration and dynamic loads, as well as reduce the risk of slackening in joints with short clamp lengths. Corrosion-resistant and with a locking mechanism unaffected by lubrication, the washers are also reusable and offer sustainability benefits.  

Moreover, Nord-Lock X-series washers are qualified to bear the European Union’s CE marking for construction applications – meaning they comply with the most stringent standards for health, safety, and environmental performance. 

“Anyone who has gone through the CE certification process knows how arduous it is,” explains Graham Souter, who points out that the Nord-Lock X-series washer is the first of its kind to achieve CE-marking. “It was a Herculean effort that required dedication from the whole team to provide all verifications and proof, and this Torque-Expo Award is recognition of their efforts.” 

Held in conjunction with the Torque-Expo – a one-day exhibition and conference – the Torque-Expo Awards are organized by the UK-based Torque Magazine, a global publication covering the fastener, tool, and related distribution industries. A biennial event like the expo, 2026 marks the third iteration of the Torque-Expo Awards and the first win for Nord-Lock, which received a “highly commended” mention in the Product Innovation category in 2024.