TÜV SÜD Industry Service has launched the International Bolting Engineer (IBE) programme, featuring in-depth lectures and hands-on workshops focused on bolting technology.
The programme was developed in collaboration with the Nord-Lock Group, with Frank Götz, Business Development Manager for Construction, serving as an instructor during the first two days of classes and helping to develop the IBE curriculum.
The programme is organised into basic and advanced modules. The basic module covers topics such as preload force, torque, friction, materials, tightening methods and tools over seven days. For the first cohort, this was split across late October and early December 2025.
Each advanced module focuses on a specific industry: steel construction, flange connections and railway vehicles. Participants can take the advanced modules individually or as a complete series, depending on their needs.
“The participants gain a clear understanding of the many factors that influence a bolted connection – and where the limits lie. Just as importantly, they learn how to positively influence those factors through proper design and execution,” said Götz.
He added that globally recognised training for working with bolted connections is long overdue, noting that similar certifications for techniques such as welding have been established worldwide for years.
Looking ahead, TÜV SÜD is exploring the possibility of offering the courses in English, as German is currently the only language of instruction. The structure of the programme is also being reviewed to combine theory and practice in a blended format, where selected elements could be completed online, while essential hands-on training would take place on site in Germany over just a few days.
