Metal joining equipment manufacturer Heron Intelligent Equipment Co. Ltd acquired the business assets of flush self-pierce riveting specialist AKH Inc. with main facilities in Danville, IN.
The partial asset purchase offers Heron exclusive rights to sell the AKH fastener and an opportunity to serve a fast-growing assembly market in North America, with “state-of-the art” riveting technology.
AKH manufactures flush self-piercing rivets (FSPR), a mechanical fastening process for joining two or more sheets of material where welding is difficult, e.g. aluminum and steel.
The majority of AKH assets, which had been privately owned for over 40 years, was purchased from the family of the late George Hahn. Heron had agreed in principle to acquire AKH assets in November 2023 with negotiations led by AKH President Gary Caulk.
“This acquisition not only broadens our product offerings but also underscores our dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions to our customers,” stated Rene Zou, head of International Business Development & ESG, Heron Intelligent Equipment.
Heron purchased its first production line from AKH in January 2019 and developed a complete rivet solution for high-end sports cars manufactured by GAC Group.
By leveraging the advanced technology and expertise from the Flush SPR business, Heron aims to deliver enhanced fastening solutions that meet the evolving needs of the market. With Heron’s investment, AKH will be able to serve more segments in the e-mobility industry, with advanced joining technologies, as well as design and manufacturing solutions. The brand will continue to do business as AKH-Heron Technologies, with Adam Blaikie as president.
The integration of Flush SPR technology will enable Heron to offer a more comprehensive range of fastening solutions, ensuring greater flexibility and efficiency in manufacturing processes.
Founded in 1981, AKH provides rivets to the automotive, appliances, trucking and industrial manufacturing markets.
Founded in 2024 as the R&D lab for AKH and Heron, AKH-Heron Technologies designs, develops and manufactures solutions to complex material joining problems for OEMs, tier suppliers, and integrators of the global automotive, motor, electrical and appliance industries. Principal product development, manufacturing, customer support and marketing is currently located in Indianapolis.
Founded in 1991, Heron Intelligent Equipment Co. is a high-tech metal connection equipment manufacturer specializing in the R&D and manufacturing of resistance welding, clinching and riveting technology. Heron has developed advanced welders and automated production lines for customers in the automotive parts & components, compressor, low-voltage electronics, home appliances, industrial manufacturing, among other industries. In 2023, Heron had more than 400 skilled employees and a factory of 54,000 square meters. Web: heron-welder.com
