News Archive
Archive of industry news from the global och industryNews By Date
May 2013
Top
Abengoa to build $110 million power plant in Glendale
Spain-based multinational corporation Abengoa has announced that it will build a $110 million facility in Glendale, California, that will cook household trash at extreme temperatures, forming a gas that can be burned to make electricity.
Konecranes delivers RTG cranes to Meridian Port Services
A total of five Konecranes Rubber Tired Gantry cranes are being erected at the Meridian Port Services (MPS) container terminal in Tema, Ghana, it has been reported.
Konecranes STS cranes heading for Georgia
Four Konecranes Super Post Panamax STS cranes are on their way to the Port of Savannah, Georgia, operated by the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA).
Aloysius Rauen steps down as CEO of Demag Cranes
Aloysius Rauen is to step down as Chief Executive Officer and resign from the Management Board of Demag Cranes AG on 31 May 2013, it has been confirmed.
GE has interest in Ghana power plant
General Electric has expressed interest in Ghana’s power sector with the US firm planning to build a 1000 megawatts power plant in the country.
Cranes boost Manitowoc sales to $898 million
Wisconsin -based Manitowoc Co. has reported sales of $898.0 million for the first quarter of 2013, an increase of 5.4 percent compared to sales of $851.9 million in the first quarter of 2012.
Bailey Cranes rolls out hybrid-powered carry-deck cranes
To help increase fuel savings, Bailey Cranes has rolled out a new line of battery- and hybrid-powered carry-deck cranes. The 18,000-lb. capacity IC-18 is the first in a line of four industrial crane models that Bailey Cranes plans to produce. The family of cranes will range in capacity from 9,000 to 36,000 lbs.
April 2013
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Columbus McKinnon unveils new AirStar Chain Hoist
Columbus McKinnon has unveiled its CM AirStar Chain Hoist with new enhancements which, the company says, give the hoist “best-in-class performance” even for the most demanding applications.
Konecranes wins major order for Goliath crane
Finnish company Konecranes has received a major order for a Goliath gantry crane from Brazilian shipyard EstaleiroEnseada do Paraguaçu (EEP).
New cranes arrive at Colombian port
The Regional Port of Buenaventura SA, which constitute the largest cranes on the South American Pacific coast, has received two new Super Post Panamax gantry cranes, local news reports revealed recently. The USD 16.7M investment in the equipment is intended to increase productivity in port operations.
Grup TCB invests in new cranes at TCQ terminal
Spanish port operator Grup TCB has moved one step closer to its goal of increasing business with shipping companies in the west coast after it was announced that it will operate the new TCQ terminal at Puerto Quetzal, located on the Pacific coast of Guatemala.
Terex delivers 1,500th harbour crane
Terex Port Solution has announced that it has delivered its 1,500th Gottwald mobile harbour crane – a Model 6 G HMK 6407 – to SEA-invest’s Antwerp Bulk Terminal (ABT).
Ushering in a new chapter for OCH
The poet and renowned physician Oliver Wendell Holmes once remarked that the greatest thing in the world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving.
March 2013
Top
Network with the OCH industry on LinkedIn
OCH Magazine has created a new LinkedIn group for professionals working in the overhead crane and hoist industry.
Konecranes wins major order for Goliath crane
Finnish company Konecranes has received a major order for a Goliath gantry crane from Brazilian shipyard Estaleiro Enseada do Paraguaçu (EEP).
New cranes arrive at Colombian port
The Regional Port of Buenaventura SA, which constitute the largest cranes on the South American Pacific coast, has received two new Super Post Panamax gantry cranes, local news reports revealed recently. The USD 16.7M investment in the equipment is intended to increase productivity in port operations.
February 2013
Top
Kito subsidiary expands presence in the US
Harrington Hoists, a wholly owned subsidiary of Japan-based company, Kito Corporation, recently leased 97,000sqft (29,566) of commercial property in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. The company expects to be fully operational by May this year.
Hirschmann dealers expand US sales coverage
Hirschmann dealers, Crane Warning Systems and Skyazul, have recently expanded their sales territory in North America, the company announced late last week.
Konecranes named 13th best work place in Ohio
Konecranes has been recognised as one of the top places to work in Dayton, Ohio, by the National Top Workplaces 2013, the largest ever survey of US companies, the crane manufacturer announced late last week.
Boston manufacturer launches camera designed to monitor crane operations in hazardous areas
IP-based camera manufacturer and developer of advanced software for managing networks of video systems, Industrial Video and Control (IVC), recently announced the availability of the CM-ZO-3041-01 crane monitoring system. The Class I Division 1 certified product has been engineered to provide high quality colour video to crane operators working in areas where hazardous gases or liquids may be present, the company stated.
ICTSI wins contract to operate Honduras port
International Container Terminal Services (ICTSI) has won the bidding to design, build and operate the specialised container and general cargo terminal of Puerto Cortes in Honduras. The port operator stated that the announcement was made during a public hearing held earlier this month in Tegucigalpa, Honduras.
Gantry cranes planned for Peru port
Four Super Post Panamax gantry cranes are expected to arrive at Callao’s Muelle Norte in October this year, according to the port's operator, APM Terminals.
New training facility for British Columbia
A CAD 16M facility for on the job training for new crane operators will open in September this year at the western edge of Mitchell Island in British Columbia. The training site is currently in North Vancouver, and will be brought to Richmond.
Advantage Rigging appoints e-commerce marketing manager
US-based company, Advantage Rigging, which supplies chain slings, poly slings, nylon slings, gantry and jib cranes, has announced the hire of Dallis Hughes to the position of e-commerce marketing manager.
Sany America names southern Illinois dealer
Construction equipment manufacturer, Sany America, recently announced that G.W. Van Keppel Company has been named its crane dealer for Arkansas and southern Illinois.
Transportation supplier plans new intermodal facility in Quebec
North American-based company, CSX Corporation and its transportation and intermodal terminals subsidiaries, announced late last week an expansion of the company¹s intermodal presence in the greater Montreal region and Quebec. The company will build a new 36-hectare (89-acre) intermodal rail terminal in the City of Salaberry-de-Valleyfield in Quebec, connecting the region with CSX Transportation¹s 34,000km rail network in the US.
Georgia Ports Authority increases activitiy
The Georgia Ports Authority ended calendar year 2012 with a strong December, marking an 11.7 per cent increase in total tonnage across all terminals, and a 21.8 per cent increase in auto and machinery units compared to December 2011, the port authority announced earlier this week.
January 2013
Top
BLP Lafayette branch moves into new facility
US-based company specialising in testing and maintenance of heavy lifting equipment, Bishop Lifting Products (BLP), has recently announced a branch move. The company is moving from its location of New Iberia to Broussard in Lafayette, Louisiana.
Indianapolis utility plans USD 511M in power plant upgrades
Indianapolis Power & Light Company has sought approval from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission for construction of the company's Petersburg plant, it was announced earlier this week. Construction on the project could begin later this year and is expected to bring 350 to 400 construction jobs to the southwestern Indiana region.
Pennsylvania-based manufacturer includes 3D models on website
US electric overhead cranes manufacturer, American Crane, now features 3D models and hoists replacement parts with exploded views on its website, the company announced earlier this month.
Demag Cranes appoints new chief operating officer
Demag Cranes has nominated Steve Filipov to its management board in the position of chief operating officer, it was announced earlier this week. Filipov will also become president of the Terex Material Handling & Port Solutions business segment of Terex Corporation, majority owner of Demag Cranes.
Leading material handling company receives DNV certification on shackles
Columbus McKinnon has expanded its offering of Det Norske Veritas (DNV) type approved and certified shackles for the offshore industry, the company announced last week.
First Louisiana overhead crane facility
US gantry and overhead crane manufacturer, Standard Crane & Hoist, has opened a new 1,170sqm manufacturing facility in Gray, Louisiana, the company announced last month.
December 2012
Top
Explosion proof option for Yale Global King wire rope hoist
An explosion proof version of the Yale Global King electric wire rope hoist is now available, intended for use for Division 2, Class 1—groups B, C and D— applications.
Sapsis Rigging opens Midwest office
Stage rigging equipment firm Sapsis Rigging has opened a satellite office in Bowler, Wisconsin to serve schools, theatres, performing arts centers, arenas, special events, and other venues in the region.
Canadian firm learns to handle its liquor
A Canadian liquor distributor has replaced its vacuum lifter-based lifting solution, for transferring boxes of liquor from pallets to carts, with a new Easy Arm Q 165 intelligent lifting device.
November 2012
Top
Energy provider awards three-crane contract for new facility
Babcock and Wilcox Power Generation Group has awarded a contract for three fully automated 17t CMAA Class F waste-handling cranes for the Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County's Palm Beach Renewable Energy facility number two, a municipal solid waste-to-energy (WTE) power plant in West Palm Beach.
Sales dip at Columbus McKinnon despite strengthening US market
Manufacturer Columbus McKinnon, recently announced net sales of USD 146.5M for Q2 of fiscal 2013, down USD 3.4M—or 2.3 per cent—from the prior-year period.
Eight RTGs for Port of Houston
Eight rubber-tired gantry (RTG) container terminal cranes have been ordered by the Port of Houston Authority, with delivery scheduled for autumn 2013.
Magnetek expands international distribution to China
Developer and manufacturer of electronic power products, Magnetek, is expanding distribution of its radio control products in China, the company has announced.
Port of New Orleans continues heavy investment
A USD 16.7M project to upgrade the Port of New Orleans’ Napoleon Avenue Container Terminal will begin in early 2013, continuing heavy investment that has already included two new gantry cranes.
Long Beach container terminal invests in 50 green spreaders
California’s Long Beach Container Terminal, a wholly owned subsidiary of Orient Overseas Container Line, has ordered 18 all-electric ship-to-shore spreaders and 32 all-electric yard spreaders from Stockholm-based Cargotec subsidiary Bromma.
German tubing manufacturer heads for Louisiana
German-based company, Benteler Steel/Tube, plans to build a USD 900M hot rolling tube mill in Caddo, Louisiana, which will be the company’s first US manufacturing operation.
Mazzella opens new branch in Minnesota
Mazzella Lifting Technologies has opened a new branch in Virginia, Minnesota, the company revealed last month. The facility is in a central location for serving the local Taconite Mines and other general industry in the region.
Green light for Pennsylvania's first natural power plant
What will be Pennsylvania's first natural gas power plant has received its industrial stormwater permit along with the go-ahead from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection for its air quality plan.
Research reveals the most active US ports
Research by Jones Lang LaSalle shows the most active commercial ports in the US. The company looked at feedback from industry experts from ports as well as shippers and users of industrial real estate for its score.
October 2012
Top
Mobile gantry cranes delivered for California operation
A DB70 double-beam mobile gantry crane and a SB30 single-beam mobile gantry crane has been purchased by PCL Industrial Services to support its operation in Bakersfield, California, Shuttlelift recently announced.
Terex announces Q3 2012 results
Terex Corporation’s third quarter results for 2012 show strong growth in its material handling and port services (MHPS) division, which accounted for over a quarter of the corporation’s Q3 net sales.
Konecranes biggest US crane order for Texas steel pipe maker
Konecranes has received one of its largest US orders with a contract to supply the cranes for TPCO America Corporation’s new seamless steel pipe manufacturing facility near Gregory, Texas.
Liebherr plans extended marine crane line
International equipment manufacturer Liebherr has announced plans to extend its current range of maritime heavy lift cranes by one new model each year, eventually including models with 1,000t lifting capacities.
Terminal expansion for Vancouver port
Winnipeg-based company, Richardson International, is investing CAD 120M (USD 121.7M) to expand its port terminal facility in Vancouver.
Konecranes Q3 results show good sales despite orders plateau
Konecranes revealed its third quarter results for 2012 this week showing improved sales and operating profits compared to the same period a year earlier, while new orders are stable.
Liebherr delivers 40th mobile harbor crane to US
International equipment manufacturer, Liebherr, has delivered its 40th mobile harbor crane to the North American market.
Solar power plant planned in California
A 500MW solar power plant that was proposed for southeast California by BrightSource Energy has won a preliminary recommendation from the California Energy Commission. The project is estimated to cost USD 2bn to build.
Internal probe prompts Cavotec management shakeup
Cavotec’s board of directors has launched an investigation focused on the practices of two individuals at Cavotec's INET operations based in California. The review is currently underway, the company announced earlier this week.
Barnhart Crane & Rigging acquires New York-based business
Memphis-based Barnhart Crane & Rigging has acquired C&S Crane and Rigging Company of Syracuse, New York, the companies announced recently.
Airplane build crane installed at new Boeing facility
A Pennsylvania-based manufacturer of overhead electric cranes and hoists has completed installation of a custom Underhung Crane System built for the new Boeing manufacturing facility in Charleston, South Carolina. American Crane & Equipment Corporation manufactured and installed crane system used by Boeing to build its newest airplane, the 787 Dreamliner, which is the world’s first composite airliner.
Crane and rigging specialists announce involvement in Gulf coast upgrades
Two crane and rigging specialists have announced their involvement in new construction, expansions and heavy maintenance plans along the Gulf coast.
September 2012
Top
MHIA to launch Innovation Awards at ProMat 2013
A new Innovation Award will be introduced by the organizers of biennial US material handling trade show ProMat at next year’s event, being held in Chicago from the 21st–24th January.
USD 10.5M pledge for new Port of Providence harbor cranes
New England’s Port of Providence has received a funding pledge for USD 10.5M from Rhode Island’s Economic Development Corporation to help purchase two barge-mounted harbor cranes.
Canadian company plans US power plant
A Canadian power developer announced yesterday that it intends to build a 300mw generation plant in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania. EmberClear has selected SK E&C USA to build the plant, which is estimated to cost up to USD 400M.
Rena wreck salvage team receives crane barge boost
A 40t crane barge has arrived in Tauranga, New Zealand along with a specialist US diving team to remove debris and salvage a cargo ship grounded off the North Island coast nearly a year ago.
New crane safety council for Canada
A new Canadian crane safety council is being established today at the second annual Crane and Rigging Conference (CRC) Canada, held in Edmonton, Alberta.
Power plant planned for Oregon
Plans for a new 30-acre natural gas-fired power plant, expected to cost around USD 850M, are reportedly going ahead according to an announcement by a Boston-based energy development group.
Fire safety upgrades for East Coast student venues
Rigging for fire safety features at Pennsylvania’s Milton Hershey School and the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia have been renovated to bring safety standards up to code.
Guam moves forward with cranes purchase
A deal to purchase three gantry cranes for the Port Authority of Guam has received approval from the Guam Public Utilities Commission despite controversy over the cranes’ condition.
Power plant planned in Kansas
Planning permission for a USD 130M electric generating station in Grant County, Kansas has been submitted by Mid-Kansas Electric, which aims to begin building the 110MW facility in 2013.
August 2012
Top
Inobtrusive fall arrest system for Midwest manufacturer
A Midwest-based manufacturer of track trenching and surface mining machines has installed a foldaway fall arrest system to avoid slowing operations while improving worker safety.
Gas turbine producer expands with process and assembly cranes
Several EOT cranes have been installed for a new 450,000sq ft natural gas turbine production plant as part of power generation equipment manufacturer Siemens Energy’s expansion of its Charlotte, North Carolina factory.
Material handling marketplace poised for growth
Figures revealed by the Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) show expected growth of eight to nine per cent in US material handling equipment demand this year and over seven per cent during 2014.
New gas plant for Massachusetts
Plans to repower the ageing Salem Harbor Power Station near Cat Cove on the US East Coast have been revealed following its sale to a New Jersey-based power company.
Japanese steel tubing manufacturer grows Indiana facility
A USD 20M investment fund has been set aside for new equipment purchases and expansion plans at a Japanese-owned auto parts supplier’s Midwest US factory.
Double contract wins for control systems manufacturer
A global power transmission, distribution and control systems technology manufacturer has recently won two significant contracts in a Mediterranean sea port and the US.
Discount supermarket plans Florida mega-warehouse
Preliminary plans to build an 821,000sq ft distribution centre and regional headquarters in Florida for an international supermarket chain have received the green light from Royal Palm Beach’s village panel.
Columbus McKinnon agrees Gaffey sale to ACE
One of the largest lifting equipment manufacturers in the US has sold off one of its most well established crane divisions to a leading US-based overhead crane supplier.
Storm damages cranes in South Carolina
Port officials at Wando Terminal in Mount Pleasant have revealed it could be months before damaged cranes are back in service after a storm caused collisions between several rail-mounted cranes.
Danish vacuum lifters enter US market
An American manufacturer of overhead electric cranes and hoists is expanding its range of lifting equipment available through the addition of Danish-made vacuum lifters.
Large crane order expected for Mexican container terminal
Work on a new terminal at the Port of Lazaro Cardenas, Mexico is underway, with its operator looking to acquire a number of electric rubber tyred gantry and ship-to-shore cranes.
Port of Seattle invests in development
Terminal 18 at the Port of Seattle has taken delivery of three Super Post-Panamax cranes, part of a six-crane deal representing a USD 54M investment in the terminal.
New US production plant planned for Spanish steel processor
A Spanish steel processing company has announced yesterday it will invest USD 50M over the next decade to build a production plant in Union County, South Carolina, creating 65 jobs.
July 2012
Top
New harbour crane range for small port terminals
A new crane family aimed at small maritime and river port terminals has been announced with the launch of Gottwald Port Technology’s first rubber-tyred portal harbour crane, the Model 2 G HRK.
US Aluminum producer plans rod mill and port expansion projects
Plans to build a USD 45M rod mill in the US and a USD 11M expansion of Port Rhodes in Discovery Bay, Jamaica, are progressing claimed Noranda Aluminum this week.
Sherborne Sensors' Martian encounter
Sherborne Sensors, working with Carleton University in Canada, has developed a mobility system incorporating sensors for use on the Kapvik micro rover, designed for conducting research on the Moon and Mars.
Konecranes’ East Coast port expansion deal
Konecranes has been contracted by a new client, Maher Terminals, to deliver six diesel electric straddle carriers for the Port of New York/New Jersey.
Crosby tuffs out the cold
The Crosby Group, US-based manufacturer of crane rigging and accessories, introduced HR-1000CT Cold Tuff hoist rings for temperatures below zero.
Canadian win for Condra
South Africa-based Condra has sold four mining hoists on a rapid turnaround in Canada.
Konecranes America expands services
Crane manufacturer Konecranes acquired Ameratronic Industries of Portage, Indiana in June.
B-Command launches limit switch
German control component provider B-Command has recently launched the new Alpha cross limit switch for overhead cranes.
June 2012
Top
Wazee builds to triple production
Colorado crane builder Wazee has begun work on a new factory, that it hopes will allow it to triple crane production.
Sapsis's divine ascension
Sapsis supplied more than a dozen chain hoists for the New York Philharmonic’s free concert at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in Manhattan, US.
Winkle industries distributes Tech Weigh ScrapMaster weighing system
Winkle Industries in Ohio, a supplier of below-the-hook devices and crane products, has become a distributor for Tech Weigh ScrapMaster line of in-motion weighing systems for magnets and grapples as part of its aftermarket distribution range.
Konecranes wins gantry order in Michigan
Konecranes Americas has been contracted to supply two 410USt gantry cranes for a $800m maintenance and upgrade project at the Ludington Pumped Storage Plant in Ludington, MI.
Terex joins up port products
Terex has launched a new division, port solutios, that joins its recent Gottwald acquisition up with Noell and Fantuzzi, acquired in 2009, and PPM, acquired in 1995.
Gorbel launches Force Sensing Handles for G-Force hoist
Overhead solutions provider Gorbel has announced the release of a new series of handles, called Force Sensing Handles, for its G-Force product line.
Cargotec's Chinese JV gets building
A joint venture of Finnish port lifting solutions manufacturer Cargotec, and Chinese Jiangsu Rainbow Heavy Industries (RHI), called Rainbow-Cargotec Industries (RCI), recently held a ground-breaking ceremony for its new facility.
Konecranes’ powerhouse cranes go the distance
Konecranes has signed a deal with Rio Tinto Alcan, the aluminum-producing branch of international mining group Rio Tinto, to install two Smarton cranes at Alcan's British Columbia-based smelting facility.
American Crane celebrates 40 years
CMCO launches Yale LodeKing electric wire rope hoist
May 2012
Top
Lifting Gear Hire strikes training deal
Rigging supplier Lifting Gear Hire (LGH) of Bridgeview, Illinois announced it would pilot a new supplying partnership with the Local 597 Pipefitters Union training facility in Chicago.
Demag appoints new CFO
Demag Cranes AG’s Management board has appointed Lawrence Lockwood of Terex as CFO and member of the management board.
Lenze America’s opens facility for Electro-Mechanical assembly
Lenze Americas, the German drive and automation systems manufacturer operating in Uxbridge, Massachusetts, opened its new assembly facility in Glendale Heights, Chicago, Illinois at the end of March.
Konecranes Americas’ global training centre
Konecranes Americas, the US based branch of the Finnish crane manufacturer, is finalizing the lease for a building to house its new global training facility near its Springfield, Ohio headquarters.
CMCO offers quick shipping on Yale
Material handling equipment manufacturer Columbus McKinnon said it was speeding up deliveries by offering reengineered ready-to-ship versions of selected models from its Yale Cable King electric wire rope hoist range.
Pilot offered with new function
HBC-radiomatic in Germany has announced that its “wii-style” Pilot controller is now available to with a new function controlling the crane though tilting hand movement.
Oil States gets heavy
Oil States Industries has launched a 500USt marine crane, dubbed Nautilus7000L, to meet the high capacity construction needs of the oil decommissioning and wind power generation markets.
Demag Cranes Q2 results
Results from Demag Cranes, now majority owned by Terex, showed it had continued to increase new orders and revenues in the second quarter of financial year 2011/2012, thanks in part to a productive port technology segment.
Houston Wire and Cable Company scores with Forbes
Forbes Magazine has awarded Houston Wire and Cable Company with a Most Trustworthy Company Award for 2012.
Sumner’s lightweight lifter
Sumner Manufacturing of Houston, TX, has launched what it calls a lightweight, portable and easy-to-assemble GH2T Gantry Lift, to provide mechanical contractors with portable lifting.
MacGregor’s smart ARC claims 30% faster cargo handling
Cargotec has developed a new smart device for cargo handling, the MacGregor Active Rotation Control (ARC), which it claims can reduce handling times by 20–30% during ship loading operations.
April 2012
Top
Lift-It gets flight clearance
Rigging supplier Lift-It Manufacturing has upgraded its registration to ISO9001 to comply with the AS9100 quality standard, allowing it to supply aerospace businesses.
ProservCrane Group Acquires Overhead Crane International, LLC
Crane builder ProservCrane Group, headquartered in Houston, TX, has acquired Overhead Crane International, LLC allowing the company to expand distribution into the Western United States.
Hidalgo mine puts bounty on stolen hoist
In Hidalgo, New Mexico, the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s department is requesting information leading to the recovery of a stolen antique mine hoist. The hoist was stolen between 13 and 18 March out of a building outside of the McGhee Mine located on Highway 80 in Hidalgo County.
US Department of commerce awards Gorbel, starts intermodal forums
This past week the US department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) “Make It In America” program selected Gorbel as its Manufacturer of the Week.
Cargotec releases 2011 annual report
Finnish manufacturer Cargotec has released its 2011 Annual Report, saying sales grew despite the Eurozone crisis and Asian natural disasters.
CSC says visibility counts
Consulting company CSC has concluded a global survey of supply chain managers, finding visibility and flexibility are key to supply chain success of market leaders.
NEMA crane control guidance
NEMA, the US National Electrical Manufacturers Association, has released new guidance on crane controls.
SBI pushbutton pendant stations
Wisconsin-headquartered Magnetek has introduced a new line of SBI Pushbutton Pendant Stations for controlling overhead crane systems.
Winkle offers GTS Generators
Winkle Industries in Ohio has been appointed exclusive North American Distributor for GTS (Generator Technick Systeme) generators and magnets.
Virtual limits make smoother lifts
Gorbel says that a pump manufacturer reported an increase in productivity after adding a new production machine and replacing an air balancer with one of its G-Force systems programmed with virtual limits and speed reduction points.
March 2012
Top
Gorbel reconfigures paint line for two Easy Arms
US manufacturer Gorbel announced that it has supplied a second Easy Arm to a pump manufacturer in the northeastern US for renovations of its manufacturing facility, allowing a productivity increase.
O’Brien Installations appoints Northern Ontario dealer
O’Brien Installations Limited (O’Brien), a crane manufacturer in Ontario, Canada, has announced the appointment of Unalloy-IWRC as its exclusive authorized O’Brien crane dealer representing the Northern Ontario market.
ProservCrane announces crane part e-commerce operation
ProservCrane Group, located in Houston, TX has this March completed its parts warehouse expansion.
JR Clancy supplies controls in UAE for a change of scene
JR Clancy has supplied motorized rigging and controls to a theatre at the Abu Dhabi campus of Zayed University. They will be used for raising and lowering scenery, lights, curtains, and the orchestra shell.
MTNW and Applied Measurements install mooring winch controls
Two US companies have supplied equipment for jack up barges working in South East Asia.
LEEA elects new chair and president
LEEA’s 520 worldwide members include companies involved in the design, manufacture, repair, refurbishment, testing and use of cranes and hoists.
BLP opens Oklahama branch
This month Bishop Lifting Products, a fabricator and distributor of slings and rigging supplies, revealed plans to open a new regional office in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
EnerMech supplies four BOP cranes
Scottish firm EnerMech announced that it was contracted to supply and install four new cranes for Blow Out Preventer (BOP) handling on four platforms owned by client Apache North Sea.
Harrington’s new ED Infinity range goes beyond pick and place
Harrington Hoists has announced a new line of lightweight electric chain hoists, the ED Infinity range, designed for workstation or assembly line use as well as for pick and place operations.
February 2012
Top
Gorbel takes on Chesapeake challenge
Gorbel recently provided two articulating arm jib cranes to support retrofitting of bearings on the columns of the four mile-long Chesapeake Bay Bridge between Baltimore and Washington DC.
J R Clancy announces two promotions
J.R Clancy, a rigging equipment company based in New York, made a series of promotions earlier this month, hiring a new director of project management and making appointments in product development and marketing.
Hanson Pipe and Precast Relies on PSI Technics positioning system
Concrete pipe manufacturer Hanson Pipe and Precast recently installed a PSI Technics positioning system on a bridge crane to replace a discontinued legacy system from another supplier.
A job well done
The Crosby Group, a US-based manufacturer of material handling and rigging accessories, announced the launch of a patent pending tubing grab for well servicing applications, McKissick’s Tubing Grab.
Lonardi moves up at Harrington as Miller goes to Kito Europe
Harrington Hoists has appointed Carlo Lonardi as COO, as current VP of operations Scott Miller crosses the Atlantic to become MD of fellow Kito subsidiary Kito Europe.
US and Germany boost Terex port and industrial crane sales
Reporting fourth quarter results, Terex said net sales in the former Demag Cranes AG business were driven by machine sales for industrial cranes and mobile harbor cranes, due to strong orders during earlier parts of 2011. Service and maintenance sales also contributed, as good capacity utilization at customer plants led to an increased need for services. Germany and the United States were the largest drivers of net sales in the quarter, but Brazil, India and China also demonstrated considerable strength.
O’Brien Installations builds magnetic crane
Canadian manufacturer O’Brien Installations has supplied a custom 25USt magnet duty overhead crane for a local metal distributor in the greater Toronto area.
LCM Systems introduces remote software diagnosis
LCM Systems, a UK-based load cell manufacturer, has said it will be using remote software to enhance its support for its sensor systems software. The new service will mean engineers will be able to more accurately diagnose issues for customers in North America.
Economic change spurs investment in US
Rick Blasgen, CEO of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals spoke at the Modex Trade Fair on 8 February on trends within of the Logistics and Supply Chain Industry.
Vandiver says sold-out Modex anticipates long-term growth
Hal Vandiver, the MHIA’s executive consultant, met with OCH to explain the state of the market and the success of its new Atlanta show, Modex.
Harrington Hoists' Kito Americas expands into Chile
Harrington Hoists says its new Latin American-focussed distribution business, Kito Americas, has exceeded expectations and will now be expanding into Chile.
January 2012
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Gorbel’s G-Force makes short work of long cylinders
Gorbel has supplied a G-Force hoist to an hydraulic cylinder manufacturer for lifting 10ft cylinders, Gorbel said.
J R Clancy keeps up the PACE
J R Clancy has successfully supplied 14 hoists at the new Parker Arts, Culture and Events Center (PACE) in Parker, Colorado. The project ended in the last few months of 2011.
Columbus McKinnon’s revenue up 10.9%
Columbus McKinnon announced steadily increasing revenue in the third quarter of fiscal 2012. It grew 10.9% to $142.8m up from $128.7m in the third quarter of fiscal 2011.
MHIA forecasts improved 2012 as economy gains strength
MHIA executive consultant F Hal Vandiver was optimistic about the growth of the industry in the latest Market Forecast for Materials Handling Equipment Manufacturing (MHEM).
Columbus McKinnon buys South African Yale distributor
Columbus McKinnon has acquired full ownership of South African Yale distributor Yale Lifting Solutions (Pty) Ltd.
Tri Motion
Tri-Motion Industries is exhibiting at booth 1626, where it will be introducing the all new Bal-Trol Pro-Series air balancing hoist, and inviting visitors to operate some of the new Pro-Series units and controls. Tri Motion Industries says that its newly launched air balancing hoist is used for repetitive lifting applications in the workplace, and may reduce costly injuries of workers who suffer from repetitive strain.Air-balancing hoists are usually expensive, but the Bal-Trol units cut costs as it can be mounted on existing overhead rails or jibs and require only an 80 PSI air supply with no electronics, the company says. Bal-Trol units are provided with a variety of ergonomically designed controls. The company offers a Demo Program to qualified customers for in-house use to see how well these units work in their specific applications. Ask reps on the stand about the Demo Program for more details.
Positech
Manipulator manufacturer Positech will be featuring its Vertical Rail Lifter (V-Rail Lifter) manipulator, as well as its Articulated Jib Lifter at its stand, Booth #3111. The V-Rail Lifter enables a stable positioning of loads lifted either on- or off-center, and eliminates the swinging of a cable or chain, Positech said.
O'Brien Installations Limited
O’Brien Installations Limited (O’Brien) jib cranes and workstation bridge cranes will be on display at the show at its booth, #4202.
Master Magnetics
Master Magnetics, based in Castle Rock, Colorado, will be displaying its extra strong Neodymium lifting magnets capable of lifting without the need to use electricity.
Demag
Demag is launching its standard Coil Master crane product, and showcasing its wire rope hoists, overhead cranes, electric chain hoists, workstation cranes as well as its Gottwald port cranes at its booth, #3318.
Cervis
Cervis from Warrendale, PA, will be exhibiting a multitude of its remotes. The display includes its complete range of TM70/1, TM70/2 hand held and TM70/3-4-5-6-7-8-9 series console style wireless remote control systems for AC stepped, AC stepless and 230VDC controls.
Modex approaches
With the big material handling show of the year, Modex, approaching, OCH offers a preview of some of the most important exhibitors from the overhead lifting sector.
MHIA appoints executive VP and VP of exhibitions
The MHIA has appointed a new executive vice president and a vice president of exhibitions along to accompany other staff and organizational changes since George W Prest became CEO, effective from 1 January 2012.
CRC/ICHC 2012 to be held in New Orleans
New Orleans has been announced as the setting for this year’s two-day jointly held Crane & Rigging Conference/Industrial Crane & Hoist Conference (CRC/ICHC), scheduled to start on 23 May.
Lenze Americas doubles production capacity in North America with new facility
Lenze Americas plans to open a mechanical product assembly and logistics center near Chicago in Glendale Heights, doubling its North American production capacity for electro-mechanical products and bringing 40 workers on board.
Konecranes smart fabrication techniques impresses at HMHS
At the last 2011 meeting of the Houston Material Handling Society (HMHS) in November, Konecranes impressed attendees by demonstrating advanced production techniques along with the capabilities of its Smarton crane.
J R Clancy marketing VP leaves
J R Clancy, manufacturer of theatre rigging systems, said its vice president of marketing, Tom Young, has left the company as of January 1, 2012, citing health reasons.
December 2011
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Westinghouse’s industrial crane donation to aid nuclear crane design
This December, Westinghouse Electric Company’s subsidiary PaR Nuclear donated two 30t industrial cranes and training equipment to train engineering students at the University of North Carolina’s Energy Production and Infrastructure Center (EPIC) in Charlotte.
Mike Murphy appointed CEO of J R Clancy?
US theatre rigging specialist J R Clancy’s president Mike Murphy will replace longstanding CEO Bob Theis, when Theis steps down on December 31, 2011.
Columbus McKinnon opens training centre
Columbus McKinnon will bring new life its original headquarters in Tonawanda, New York, converting its former LodeRail production plant into a training center.
Hoosier Crane becomes CMCO parts depot and warranty repair center
Expanding its service network in the Midwest, Columbus McKinnon has selected Hoosier Crane Service Company of Elkhart, Indiana as a parts and repair service centre.
Columbus McKinnon Lodestar redesigned for a quick fix
Columbus McKinnon has announced that it is adding new features and design improvements to its Lodestar Electric Chain Hoist for easier maintenance.
Two new appointments at Magnetek’s material handing business unit
Controls manufacturer Magnetek has announced two appointments within its material handling business unit, Norman Davis is now business development manager for remote controls and John Holland becomes a manufacturer’s representative.
Engineered Systems streamline admin with Field ID
Field ID have signed a contract with US materials handling firm Engineered Systems to provide RFID tags for crane, trolley and hoist components for use with its cloud-based inspection system.
November 2011
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R&M’s Loadmate helps save elephant
Lifting equipment manufacturer R&M Materials Handling have been called on to help veterinary specialists in North Carolina lift a very unusual load, a 6.5USt partially-sighted elephant.
Konecranes sales and order growth overshadows disappointing profits
Konecranes posted third quarter results showing a 24% drop in operating profits, despite a healthy 14.6% increase in sales and a 53% increase in Konecranes’ order book year on year, as expansion costs bit at the Finnish multinational’s service division.
Elebia targets US foundries with CIS deal
Barcelona-based Elebia has announced that American Contractors and Industrial Supply (CIS) will be its hook partner for electrode handling equipment, supplying its hooks along with CIS’s electrode handling products to mills and foundries in Canada, USA and South America.
Parker Hannifin launches V14 110 and 160 variable speed bent-axis motors
Parker Hannifin announced that it has launched a new range of hydraulic motors for crane, winch and hoist drives, intended for high performance applications. The Cleveland-based company makes motion and control technologies, including motors.
Columbus McKinnon grows in emerging markets
Pursuing a strategy for growing in multiple emerging markets, specifically in Latin America, Eastern Europe, China and the rest of Asia, Columbus McKinnon reported net sales of $149.9m in the second quarter of fiscal 2012, and said it had sufficient capitalization to materialize its acquisition strategy.
New crane inspector certification program from NCCCO
A crane inspector certification program has been developed by the NCCCO in conjunction with the Crane Certification Association of America (CCAA), offering inspectors of tower, mobile and overhead cranes distinct certifications.
Demag factory cranes boost Terex
Thanks to a boost in business after acquiring Demag Cranes' port equipment and materials handling operations, Terex’s Q3, 2011 results signaled overall growth, as net sales of $1803.6m returned a 67.7% year on year increase.
Electric Rhino has compact body, low head
Harrington Hoists has launched a new line of electric wire rope hoists, the RHN ‘Rhino’ Series.
October 2011
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Gorbel holds steady on uneven floors
Gorbel announced this month that it had developed a workstation crane for a foundry in the South specialising in the manufacture of rare components for pumps.
'Indifference' to unsafe crane bags Ohio fabricator $134,400 fine
OSHA has proposed a $134,400 fine under its Severe Violators Enforcement Program (SVEP) after investigation of an Ohio based steel fabricator found 17 health and safety violations, including unsafe crane operations.
Demag introduces energy chain crane option
Demag Cranes has announced that in the coming months, it will begin supplying its standard cranes, which are radio-controlled, with energy chain systems as an added option.
Vic-Lok keeps holding on
IntegriCert, owned by Vic Segura with two locations in Louisiana, has recently launched the innovative Vic-Lok Shackle. The company is an inspection, load testing, and rigging company serving the oil and gas industry in the Southwest.
JD Neuhaus launches 125t air hoist
JD Neuhaus has announced the launch of a 125t air operated hoist in its EH range. It claims to be the first company to develop an air operated hoist in this capacity category.
Bishop achieves Atomic fusion
Bishop Lifting has acquired Atomic Industrial Marine and Supply, a New Orleans, LA based sling fabricator and marine supplies shop.
Mack remakes website, and attachments
Lifting attachment specialist Mack Manufacturing has launched a new website, with clearer navigation and an increased focus on its remanufacturing business.
Shuttlelift launches double gantry
Shuttlelift has introduced a completely new design to its traditional rubber-tired gantry crane (RTG) product lines with a series of double beam mobile gantry cranes. The company said it had engineered the cranes, which it calls ‘cost effective’, for moving heavy bulky items from production areas to transport areas.
Clancy helps Dolly Parton’s pirate ships set sail
For a grand opening in June of this year, J R Clancy provided rigging to move props at Dolly Parton’s family-oriented pirate show, Pirates Voyage, taking place in a former Dixie Stampede hippodrome in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Prest to lead MHIA
At the MHIA’s Fall Meeting in Cambridge, Maryland, last week, the group announced that George W Prest will take over leadership of the association when current CEO John Nofsinger retires at the end of this year.
September 2011
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Gorbel Auto parts client increases productivity
An auto parts supplier reportedly achieved a five-fold productivity increase after installing a Gorbel Easy Arm Q model to stamp metal blanks in the loading bay of its stamp press.
Ingersoll Rand modernizes with new facility
Ingersoll Rand North America has consolidated its business to improve efficiency and interdepartmental liaison between its industrial lifting and winch and hoist segments by moving them into one new facility.
Smart-Rig launches mini-crane for minimal lifts
In mid-September, Southern California based Smart-Rig Cranes, a portable crane and floor crane manufacturer, introduced the 1,000lb capacity T1 model electric floor crane for applications involving minimal lifting.
Konecranes America VP joins group board
Fabio Fiorino, VP of service for Konecranes America, has been promoted to the Finnish-based multinational's group executive board. The board will be reshuffled after the departure of Harry Ollila on 1 January, 2012. Ollila will continue to provide consultancy services to Konecranes.
MHIA downgrades forecast in fragile economy
In his latest quarterly forecast for the material-handling equipment manufacturing (MHEM) industry, released in August, MHIA executive consultant F Hal Vandiver sounds a cautious note, downgrading previous forecasts.
Panama Canal CEO to keynote Modex
The MHIA has announced that Alberto Alemán Zubieta, CEO of the Panama Canal Authority, will deliver a keynote at next year’s Modex show. The expansion of the canal, and its expected effect on US cargo flows, is part of the reason for the launch of the new show.
New easy-tilt vacuum lifter from Anver Corporation
Vacuum lifting product manufacturer Anver Corporation has announced the release of an electric hoist-based high-flow vacuum lifter combined with a pneumatic hand-powered 90 tilter for reorienting coiled products.
ACECO’s a glass act at Hanford
A 3t overhead crane provided by American Crane and Equipment Corporation (ACECO) has been installed at a new High Level Waste Facility at the world-renowned Hanford nuclear site in Washington, USA.
August 2011
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Eriez expands its services
Eriez, a US-based specialist manufacturer of separation and lifting equipment, such as lifting magnets, with 12 locations worldwide, has announced that it is constructing newbuildings in Pennsylvania, US, and in Tianjin, China.
David Round cleans up with new treatment center
Clean room specialists David Round have opened a new metal treatment center dedicated to the production of stainless steel cranes.
Harrington gets ISO cert
US lifting equipment manufacturer Harrington Hoists has achieved ISO 9001:2008 certification after an accredited registrar audited its design, manufacture and sales processes for its crane systems, components and hoisting products.
NuCrane ships first Chinese order
NuCrane, a specialist manufacturer of nuclear reactor cranes owned by Westinghouse, has shipped its first polar crane to China, for use in one of four AP1000 reactors being built in the country.
Demag Cranes order book swells as Terex deal completes
As Demag Cranes AG finalises its merger with Terex Corporation, the firm has posted third quarter results, covering the three months to 30 June 2011, showing increases in orders, revenues and earnings.
Columbus McKinnon appoints three vice presidents
Materials handling equipment manufacturer Columbus McKinnon has chosen three members of its executive committee to take on vice presidential roles for different arms of the business.
Gottwald supplies 100t pontoon cranes for Mississippi River runs
Gottwald Port Technology has supplied two of its 100t capacity harbour pontoon cranes for transshipping operations on the Mississippi River run by St James Stevedoring Partners of Louisiana, US.
Terex receives EU clearance to buy Demag Cranes AG
Terex has announced that the European Commission, the EU body responsible for enforcing competition law, has approved its merger with Demag Cranes AG. The purchase will go ahead next week.
Wenger acquires J R Clancy
On the 1st of August, New York-based theatrical rigging equipment designer J R Clancy was acquired by privately-owned theatrical supplies firm Wenger.
Mi-Jack acquires EcoPower Hybrid Systems to build green RTGs
Mi-Jack Canada has acquired Montreal-based green engine firm EcoPower Hybrid Systems.
Konecranes supplies coker crane in India
Konecranes is supplying a coker crane for Nagarjuna Oil Company in India, designed for clearing the coke pit at a petroleum refinery in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu.
Spanco AWS certified
The American Welding Society (AWS) has recognised overhead crane maker Spanco, and its fall protection division, with quality management certification for its welds.
Shuttlelift boosts productivity for Lafarge’s Calgary operation
Construction materials supplier Lafarge claims to have increased production speed at its precast concrete pipe manufacturing plant in Calgary, Canada, by purchasing a Shuttlelift SB 70 gantry crane.
July 2011
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SWF Krantechnik is on the move
SWF Krantechnik has launched a new air balancer for use with an overhead lifting device, and added improvements to its Nova electric wire rope hoists.
Columbus McKinnon’s 17.4% revenue increase to push international growth
Columbus McKinnon hinted that it will invest a net sales increase of $20.7m in the first quarter of fiscal 2012 towards its acquisitions strategy, following other industry leaders in acquiring developing markets.
Konecranes Lundmark explains Demag decision
Announcing second quarter sales up 21.9% over the prior year to €459.5m, Konecranes CEO Pekka Lundmark has explained the Finnish-owned manufacturers decision not to bid for Demag Cranes AG, saying Demag’s European asset base was too close to its existing market for anti-trust compliance, and not as likely to grow as assets in emerging markets, like those Konecranes has bought this year in India and Chile.
New MLTX2 bellybox transmitter
US power and motion control systems manufacturer Magnetek has announced the release of what it says is one of the lightest bellybox transmitters available on the market, the Enrange MLTX2.
Mazella acquires Indusco
Mazzella Lifting Technologies of Ohio, a maker of overhead cranes, has acquired Baltimore, Maryland-based rigging and sling firm Indusco, doubling the company’s staff.
O’Brien seeks Metreel distributors in selected US states and Canada
Manufacturer O’Brien is looking for light rail dealers in New York, Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland and Pennsylvania and all of Canada, where it is now the exclusive dealer for Metreel’s Met-Track product line.
Harrington appoints new board members
Harrington hoists, a member of the Kito Group, has made two appointments to its board of directors, vice president for sales and marketing Carlo Lonardi and vice president of operations Scott Miller.
Crane 1 expands headquarters
Crane 1 Services has announced plans to expand its corporate office in Franklin, Ohio. Crane 1 is a four-and-a-half-year old firm and employs 100 people at seven locations in seven different cities, including in Louisville, Kentucky; Charleston, West Virginia; and Baltimore, Maryland.
New OSHA inspections targets southern powered industrial truck owners
OSHA has launched a new four-month programme focused on reducing fatalities and injuries caused by powered industrial trucks operating in the State of Mississippi.
Bishop Lifting expands into Florida
On June 30, Texas based Bishop Lifting Products, a manufacturer of rope, slings, winches and hoists, officially acquired West Florida Wire Rope.
Lift-Tech veteran joins G.W. Becker training team
Lifting equipment manufacturer G.W. Becker has appointed Larry Lynn, formerly of Yale Lift-Tech, as the new training manager for its Hermitage, Pennsylvania-based service team.
Terex takes 67% of Demag Cranes AG shares
Terex has announced that it has acquired enough shares of Demag Cranes AG to complete its bid for the company. With 67% of shares of the industrial and port crane manufacturer, the US-owned crane builder has achieved the minimum acceptance level for the deal, which will now be subject to regulatory approval.
June 2011
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Shuttlelift client’s success with mobile gantry
American crane builder Shuttlelift used a mobile gantry crane to assist a steel manufacturer in Alberta, Canada to improve the firm’s production processes. The client, Plains Fabrication and Supply, produces heaters, separators pressure vessels, and skid packages.
Konecranes to refurb largest US power plant
Lifting equipment manufacturer Konecranes has been awarded the contract to refurbish three ageing 225USt polar cranes at the Palo Verde Nuclear Generation Station in Arizona by 2015.
Demag AG board recommends new Terex offer
Demag Cranes AG management has recommended its shareholders accept a revised takeover bid from Terex Corporation that includes an increased share price offer while safeguarding employee jobs, existing sites and Demag AG’s operational autonomy within Terex.
Gorbel client exercises Easy Arm
An exercise equipment manufacturer recently reported improved assembly processes after replacing a jib crane with a Gorbel Easy Arm intelligent assist device.
Konecranes cranes used at wind turbine test center
Cranes from Konecranes have been used at a new center built in Boston to test wind turbine components. The Wind Turbine Test Center will allow US firms to test blades measuring up to 90m.
Magnetek drive interface adds new functions at lower cost
Wisconsin based radio remote control manufacturer Magnetek has released a Radio Drive Serial interface (RDSI) module for its Impulse drive series that reduces costs while providing additional functionality for remotes.
EMH to build 500t cranes at new facility
EMH has announced that it will expand its plant in Valley City Ohio in order to add a crane range with increased capacities. The company builds overhead crane kits and wire rope hoists.
Strong US and EU performance boosts Columbus McKinnon
Columbus McKinnon has posted strong fourth quarter results for the fiscal year ending 31 March 2011 showing a 17.1% increase in net sales year on year, along with a 31.9% increase in its order backlog.
May 2011
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Bishop picked for safety award
Bishop Lifting Products has won an award from the Houston Business Roundtable’s Safety Excellence competition.
Control Chief 40 years old
In celebration of its 40th anniversary on 24th June, remote manufacturer Control Chief will hold a ceremony and an 'oldest system in operation' contest at its Bradford, Pennsylvania facility. It is looking to find the oldest of its wireless systems still in use.
Craneworks renovates washed up gantry cranes
This month has seen the start of a US government project to renovate two 50-year-old cranes used to lift the floodgates at the Gavins Point Dam, a Federal hydroelectric power plant.
More Positech products online
US based Positech has announced the relaunch of its website incorporating a video library and a broader selection of its manipulators for materials handling, organized by industry application.
Canada sales boost Kito results summary
Japanese crane manufacturer Kito has released a summary of its results for the year to March 31 2011, showing substantial increases in net sales and net income.
Terex makes offer for Demag AG
Terex Cranes has announced that its German subsidiary Terex Industrial Holding AG is making a public offer on the outstanding shares of Demag AG, at €41.75, a 15% premium over their value at the time of the bid, and 41% over their value in October 2010, prior to the first rumours of a bid for the company.
David Round adapts Roto-Mate line for clean rooms
US crane manufacturer David Round has announced its Roto-Mate line of jib crane motorisation products are now available in stainless steel for clean room and other sanitary applications.
April 2011
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Edison firm cited over failing to record crane tests, despite warning
A New Jersey granite and marble worktop manufacturer faces fines totalling $112,530 after committing 19 health and safety violations and failing to rectify five violations identified by OSHA in July last year, including failing to maintain records or reports of crane inspections.
New coil and pallet lifter from Bushman Avontec
Material handling equipment manufacturer Bushman Avontec has developed a motorised lifter capable of handling pallets and coils whether the coil eye is oriented along a horizontal or vertical axis.
ProMat review: O'Brien
O’Brien is a Canadian crane and hoist manufacturer expanding into light rail with the introduction of the Met-Track product line. It has been named Canadian partner for Metreel, and will distribute all Metreel products in Canada from its manufacturing facility located in Burlington, Ontario.
ProMat review: Met-Track
The new Met-Track light Crane system provides area-serving overhead handling and can work with the majority of lifting devices including hoists, vacuum lifting devices, manipulator arms, cantilever outreach cranes, and wide span cranes with up to 2000kgs of lifting capacity.
Konecranes America innovates for hydroelectric plant solution
Konecranes America has delivered two of its largest industrial cranes to a Canadian hydroelectric power plant north of Revelstoke in British Columbia, thanks to the firm’s newly developed jacking tower installation system.
ProMat review: Konecranes
Konecranes Americas, based in Ohio, is introducing new light lifting system products for the North and South America markets, though already available in Europe.
ProMat review: eepos
Germany’s eepos manufactures modular aluminum crane systems and opened its US headquarters in 2010. With the expanding automotive industry and its distributors in the south, eepos has chosen to base its US operations out of Tupelo, Mississippi. With long-standing connections to automotive companies like Mercedes Benz, Audi and BMW, eepos has seen demand working with these customers as they set up manufacturing facilities in the southeastern region.
ProMat review: Demag
Promat saw the US launch of a new profile in Demag’s KBK workstation crane product line. It’s wholly designed and developed in Germany, Demag’s headquarters, where it has already been launched and marketed.
ProMat review: Columbus McKinnon
At Columbus McKinnon’s stand, Cristina Brooks interviews Josh Karczewski marketing coordinator, and Tom Trost, regional sales director, about the next generation Lodestar electric chain hoist, currently in its beta phase.
Promat review
With ProMat at an end, OCH editor Will North reviewed the event with MHIA vice president for sales and events, Tom Carbott, and looked forward to a new event, Modex, next year. Cristina Brooks reviews some of the products on show at the event.
Magnetek’s journeyman comes full circle
US drives and motion control systems manufacturer Magnetek has appointed Don Schneider as its new business development manager for its radio remote controls division.
March 2011
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Demag KBK light crane system expanded
Demag Cranes has added the KBK II-H steel profile section, with an inside-running rail component, to its KBK light crane system, enabling the construction of monorails and suspension cranes with capacities up to 2t.
ProMat picks
ProMat in Chicago will be the premier meeting place for suppliers in the materials handling industry, offering the opportunity to learn and network. Over the next three weeks, OCH selects...
Shuttlelift
Shuttlelift provides mobile hoists and will show their Single Beam (SB) Series gantry cranes line at booth #1176. The line adds to its existing SL and ISL mobile gantry crane series, and offers companies an additional portfolio of lifting solutions. The SB Series is a new line of single-beam, rubber-tired gantry cranes and is offered to users in 15, 30 and 70USt models. Shuttlelift says that the cranes are ideal for handling longer loads and tandem picks, replacing a single 100t gantry with spreader bar, and is an effective solution when using gantry cranes in tandem, lifting items such as concrete bridge beams or wind tower components. The SB series can also be used in conjunction with a company’s existing conventional crane, regardless of the brand. In addition, as the weight of the load is located directly below the frame, potential stability issues using rough terrain cranes, forklifts or crawler cranes are no longer an issue.
TransTech
TransTech, a subsidiary of Fandstan Electric, is a leader in the power transfer technology market and manufacture open and closed conductor bar systems, as well as insulators for overhead crane and material handling applications. It works closely with its European sister companies to leverage a broad product portfolio. One of its key products, the REDI-BAR, will be displayed at booth 2674. REDI-BAR is a system designed to simplify crane conductor installations and replacements for applications requiring less than 480 amps. As the conductor bar system is factory-assembled and ready to install, TransTech says that the installation can be completed within a few hours with minimal downtime. Its features include an optional sealing strip available to reduce dust and moisture intrusion, it allows up to seven conductors within a compact enclosure, a trolley-style current collector integrates all conductors into a single low-maintenance unit, and the flexible feeder design can be located anywhere on the system. Although standard four-pole conductor bar assemblies are available off-the-shelf, TransTech says custom conductor bar assemblies are manufactured to order for unique applications. In addition, it is certified to CSA standard for the USA and Canada. AKAPP Multiconductor, another enclosed conductor bar system, for applications including cranes, slip rings, passenger trains, automated greenhouse equipment, manufacturing material handling applications, monorail systems and window cleaning equipment, will also be displayed. Other products include the original Delta Star Engineered Crane conductor systems, spring and motor driven cable reels, as well as Stemmann slip rings.
Spanco
Located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, Spanco provides cranes and material handling solutions. The company will be available at booth #452 to talk about its gantry cranes, jib cranes, workstation bridge cranes, and Rigid Lifelines fall protection systems. Spanco will be displaying a large number of graphics, showing off its products such as Rigid Lifelines fall protection systems, which reduce steel usage by 60 per cent and reduces injury due to its enclosed track. It exceeds Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards and American National Standards Institute guidelines. It is available in various
Dematic
Dematic will display its Multishuttle, FlexSort and Modular Conveyor at booth #3612 and booth #3603. A flexible system for automated storage and retrieval the Multishuttle was designed to enhance the interface between bulk stock and functions such as picking, and order assembly where pallets are stored and sequenced. It increases speed and accuracy, and adapts to existing building layouts. Dematic’s Flexsort SL, RL and ML linear sort systems are integrated sort systems, engineered as one machine. The system is made up of multiple sub-systems. It provides the user with smooth and efficient carton flow between subsystem, higher production rates at a slower speed, and a single control interface. As a company’s operation activity goes up and down the sorter automatically adjusts its speed to match the flow required. The Modular Conveyor System (MCS), for companies handling cases, totes, trays, poly bags, or parcel envelopes, is designed to increase operational flexibility. For instance, companies are able to change configurations and drop in new models without having to start over with a new conveyor network to accommodate change.
Acco
Acco Pennsylvania-based company Acco Material Handling Solutions has a longstanding history of providing material handling solutions. The company offers monorail cranes and hoists, grabs, lifters, tracks, two wheelers and non-powered material handling trailers, as well as related components and replacement parts. It will be displaying its new product, an Accolift electrical chain hoist, at booth #1471 at this year’s ProMat Show. The Accolift electric chain hoist offers a dual brake system, upper and lower limit switches, an installed overload safety alert, and is of a compact design to enable one-handed operation. In addition, the range offers capacity from half to 10 tons. It is also available in single speed or Variable Frequency Drive (VFD).
Viastore Systems
Viastore, an international system provider of turnkey automated material handling systems, integrates storage and retrieval machines, warehouse management systems, conveyor systems, material flow and process control. It also develops automated solutions based on project specific return on investment requirements, and will exhibit at booth #2319. The company will be talking about its latest work, its automation of Americold’s newly expanded Indianapolis facility. Americold is a global leader in temperature - controlled warehousing for the food industry. The building is designed to operate as either a cooler or a freezer and the solution includes a 110ft tall rack-supported building resulting in an additional 21,000 pallets for storage at the site, the capability to automatically replenish multi-level order picking positions integrated into the racking structure, and a pallet-handling automated storage and retrieval system. Viastore’s energy efficient solution, ViastoreBlue, will also be incorporated into the system allowing energy efficient drives throughout the system to be optimised through energy reclamation, and this system essentially monitors the entire warehouse. The project represents the full spectrum of the company’s capabilities and its longstanding reputation with automated systems in cold storage, Viastore says.
Tele-Radio
Tele-radio will exhibit Tiger and Panther remote control systems for use with cranes and a range of other industrial devices at booth #208.Tiger systems enable the user to control several systems simultaneously by transmitting the ID number of the machine being used onto the display. The Tiger model with 10 functions features a display screen which gives feedback readings. The feedback system transmits useful information from the receiver’s digital inputs and weight indication systems. When this occurs, the display lights up or a built-in horn sounds. The feedback system works with a range of different fieldbus systems including CANopen, Profibus or Modbus/TCP. Its software can be adapted to meet different requirements. This model is available with an optional joystick operating with two- or four-speed settings.An alternative model with 12 functions does not have a display.All product models provide a choice between 12 or 28 function relays and 69 selectable channels in the 433-434 MHz frequency band.Tele-Radio describes its Tiger system as having enhanced safety, as it is fully compliant with SIL3 IEC 61508, considered the highest level of risk reduction achievable using a single programmable electronic system. In addition, it is certified to CSA standard for the USA and Canada.The Panther system will also be on display. This range has the comparative advantage of flexibility, making it customisable for a wide range of applications from turbines to lifts. Panther remotes transmit on the accessible 2.4 GHz band up to 500 metres with the option to use an analogue signal. Panther remotes are offered in models with three, six or eight two-step buttons. The system generally comes with five functional relays, but it is programmable for any relay or relay series, as are the functions of the five LEDs. An additional six relays can be added upon request. The receiver relays may be set to momentary, latching or interlock.
LTW Intralogistics
LTW Intralogistics is well-known in Europe. The company says its goal at ProMat 2011 will be to brand the LTW name in the US. The company is part of the Doppelmayr Garaventa Group, one of the largest global manufacturers of trams, and projects include the tram at the Mexico City Airport. The company will be at booth #3819, showing display videos and answering questions on its products.LTW manufactures aisle-bound as well as curve-going stacker cranes and material handling systems for high-rise warehouses. It says its cranes are designed with fast and efficient aisle changing capabilities, are AC powered, and can be operated manually or be fully automated. The cranes operate in single or multiple depth pallet storage. Plus, the complete stacker cranes range features standing lifting capacities from 50kg to 7t.s.
Gorbel
Gorbel, which provides overhead material handling solutions, will be showing products from its line of crane technology and ergonomic lifting products at booth #3623. The company has expanded its line of portable gantry cranes to include a new lightweight portable deisgn and attendees will be able to see its new Aluminum Gantry Crane, released in January 2011, on display for the first time at the show.The Aluminum Gantry Crane is made for easy lifting and is ideal for localised lifting anywhere in a facility. Gorbel says that its portability makes it an effective solution for areas where lifting equipment is needed on an infrequent basis, such as over machines for maintenance, and it collapses down easily when not in use so that it does not take up valuable floor space. The Aluminum Gantry Crane has a capacity oft up to two tons. Gorbel will also be showing its free-standing work station crane, a hybrid Cleveland Tramrail monorail, the Tool Solutions jib line, and a Tether Track fall arrest system. Gorbel will be featuring its award-winning G-Force and Easy Arm intelligent lifting devices.
O’Brien Installations
O’Brien Installations will be showing its line of standard jib cranes at booth #1773, and will be available to answer questions about custom jib cranes for hazardous environments.The complete jib crane range features standard lifting capacities from 50lb to 22000lb. Boom lengths may typically be extended up to 38 ft, with custom booms being fitted up to 64ft. O’Brien can take orders for masts reaching heights of over 35ft.O’Brien’s jib cranes are available in a spectrum of configurations including standard free standing, column/wall mount, axial, and articulating jibs with booms suited for confined workshops. These may be driven by manual or programmed operation.The company says its range of jib and overhead cranes may be customised to suit a varied range of building environments, from hazardous work areas to outdoor ones. It offers an analysis service, accounting for variables such as cycle speeds and weight forces. The service can solve problems associated runway systems or manufacturing environments which must comply with industry regulations.Apart from general manufacturing, O’Brien serves a range of specific industries including paper, steel, auto-parts, recycling, aerospace and power. It also specialises in ports and boat secure handling.
Konecranes
Konecranes is introducing Smart Solutions, a kit of crane features that can adapt to meet the needs of projects requiring increased productivity, performance or safety. Konecranes says its features can use a smaller space more effectively, as well as minimising damage to cranes to decrease maintenance costs and downtime. Features are designed to reduce shock, prevent bridge skewing and stop overloads can minimize wear. The kit includes components such as sway control, positioning control, area control, load float and brake slip supervisionSway Control restricts unwanted movements in several directions while in manual and automatic modes, making crane operation easier. Plus, it is simple enough to use without extensive training, Konecranes says.The positioning control remote allows the crane to ‘learn’ pre-selected positions. It comes with a standard automation function that can be used without extensive programming, in most cases, although protected areas require changing by a qualified Konecranes technician.
EMH
EMH (Engineered Material Handling) will exhibit its AL Systems Aluminum Workstation Cranes and Nomad Freestanding Bridge Crane Systems in Booth #1447 of the ProMat 2011 Show. AL Systems workstation cranes can lift 2200lbs in ceiling mounted, freestanding and jib crane configurations.The Nomad freestanding bridge crane system has a 10t lift capacity and a 40ft width. It includes all EMH’s compatible components. A tie back to the building structure is not needed. Installation is easier as the system does not normally require footers.Also on display will be the EMH standard wire rope hoist and endtruck product line and its offerings of bridge and gantry cranes for loads to 300 tons. EMH can answer questions about its range of endtrucks, standard wire rope hoists for capacities to 50 tons and its customizable hoists for loads to 300 tons.
Demag Cranes and Components
Demag Cranes and Components will be introducing a new section on its KBK light crane system, as part of an effort to improve the product line by increasing load capacity and spanning capability. The new track profile will work for both suspension cranes and monorails. The addition to the traditional system is KBK II-H’s steel profile section that will fit between the KBK II and KBK III size sections, while remaining compatible with existing systems. The KBK II-H profile makes it possible to increase distances between suspensions on crane runways for spans of more than 6m and 1200kg loads.The section also features a rigid rail joint capable of being subjected to a full load at any track position.The track will continue to provide reliable overhead material handling, smooth running for trolleys, and pendulating suspension that absorbs horizontal movement.It will feature compatible KBK parts such as travelling, extending and overhead cranes.Demag’s modular crane construction kit is designed for adaptability. The structure is lightweight and the bridges are flexible. Demag says it is relatively easy to assemble.Also on display and ready for hands-on testing, Demag’s stepless high-speed chain hoist will be at their booth, #622. Clients can test out its precision positioning system. All chain hoists are certified by the Hoist Manufacturer Institute (HMI).The Demag booth will also display videos of overhead cranes being used in the steel coil handling, waste-to- aircraft, energy, concrete pipe and wind turbine manufacturing industries. An additional promotional video will show real-life demonstrations of Demag’s range used in port and manufacturing contexts. There, Demag can provide information on all its overhead cranes, wire rope hoists, electric chain hoists, workstation cranes and Gottwald port cranes.
Top Lift appoints parts and service manager
Top Lift Enterprises, a container-handling equipment dealer based in Canada, has appointed a new parts and service manager, Dan Breznicar. He will work out of Top Lift’s Stoney Creek, Ontario, headquarters.
Cervis introduces range limiter
Cervis is introducing a new feature on its remotes: Work-Zone Range-Limiting technology (WZL). The range limiter should be useful in applications requiring Hoist Manufacturer’s Institute (HMI) supervision, or those in conditions where reception dropouts occur frequently, such as iron and steel component factories.
February 2011
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Winkle develops lightweight scrap magnet series
Ohio-based lifting equipment manufacturer Winkle Industries has added two new lightweight models to its Optimag L-Series of scrap lifting magnets.
Harrington Hoist Targets South America
US-based manufacturer Harrington Hoist has announced the launch of an outreach program in South America. Named Kito Americas in reference to Harrington’s parent company, Kito Group, the program will allocate new resources to South American clients via its American offices.
O'Brien moves to Burlington
Canadian overhead crane and industrial door manufacturer and installer O'Brien Installations has complete a move to a new facility in Burlington, Ontario. The move gives the company more space, and moves it closer to customers in Greater Toronto.
Columbus McKinnon's revenue up 8.2%
Announcing its third quarter results for fiscal year 2010-2011, Columbus McKinnon showed net sales up 8.2% year on year in the third quarter, reaching $128.7m.
Report says manufacturing industry is expanding
In the final quarter of 2010, PricewaterhouseCoopers released a report predicting good prospects for the manufacturing industry based on interviews with 62 industrial products manufacturing executives.
ABB acquires Baldor Electric
ABB, Swiss-Swedish automation technology firm, acquired American motor manufacturer Baldor last November, expanding its trade in energy efficient motors.
January 2011
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Safe and sound solution for Indiana’s Palladium
At the Carmel Centre for the Performing Arts in Indiana, acoustic design specialists Artec Consultants brought in J R Clancy to design the support for acoustic canopies and curtains for the Carmel Regional Concert Hall.
Demag Cranes & Components extend reach in Americas
Demag Cranes and Components has appointed Comercial Fesanco as its representative in South America, providing support in Chile, Ecuador and Peru.
Virginia Crane designs cranes for Texas metalworks
Industrial equipment manufacturer LeTourneau Technologies has contracted crane and monorail system manufacturer Virginia Crane to design, build and install two 50USt overhead cranes, customised for plate handling.
J R Clancy supplies Arkansas community college
University of Arkansas Community College in Hope has selected J R Clancy as the rigging equipment manufacturer for its new auditorium and conference center Hempstead Hall.
December 2010
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Laird Technologies acquires Cattron
St. Louis, Missouri- based Laird Technologies has announced the acquisition of Cattron Group International Inc.
New leadership at MHIA
The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) announced the appointment of George W. Prest to the position of chief operating officer in early December.
Ingersoll Rand launch jib crane range
Multinational manufacturer Ingersoll Rand’s industrial arm has revealed a new line of jib crane models to support operations using overhead cranes in height-restricted areas.
November 2010
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Massachusetts firm develop vacuum lifter for awkward loads
Vacuum lifting equipment manufacturer Anver Corporation has developed a vacuum hoist lifter designed to allow a single handler to safely lift awkward loads weighing up to 250kg.
Winkle expands production plant
Winkle Industries has unveiled the expansion at its Ohio base, following increasing production since the plant was built in 2003.
Global material handling demand to approach $113bn by 2014
A study released by market researchers Freedonia predicts that world demand for material handling products will increase by 6.5% by 2014.
October 2010
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Teatro Bradesco select JR Clancy rigging equipment
On its opening in early October, the 1,457-seat house in the Bourbon Mall São Paulo, became one of the largest traditional theatres in Brazil.
R&M announce new jib crane package
Hoist manufacturer R&M Materials Handling has extended its Spacemaster range of crane packages with the addition of the Spacemaster JC jib crane package.
September 2010
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Sprint Electric to unveil new motor drive range at SPS/IPC/Drives
Motor control drive manufacturer Sprint Electrics will release its new JL/X range of three-phase output slip ring motor drives at the SPS/IPC Drives international trade fair in Nuremburg, this November.
J R Clancy joins the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing US businesses
The New York-based stage rigging design and manufacture firm, has been featured in Inc. Magazine’s list of the top 5,000 fastest growing privately owned companies in the USA.
HBC – Radiomatic release wireless remote for service engineer safety
Wireless control system manufacturers HBC – Radiomatic, has developed a new radio remote control for the operation of automated rack heavy machinery, to facilitate safer maintenance.
Elebia release e10 model motorized automatic release hook
Automatic crane hook fabricator Elebia has updated its stock and is now offering a 10t version of their patented e5 industrial hook system.
Avtron Crane Systems awarded upgrade project
Port Freeport, Texas, has awarded Avtron Crane Systems a contract to upgrade a mobile harbour crane, including adding a new drive system.
AS/RS Industry Group announce results for the quarter
The Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS) Industry Group of Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) has announced its latest report, titled: AS/RS: A Key Link in the Cold Chain.
August 2010
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PaR Crane System for Chernobyl Regeneration Project
PaR Systems is to supply the main cranes systems for the Chernobyl plant in Ukraine.
MHIA to launch new event in 2012
The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) has announced the launch of its new event, Modex 2012, to be held 6-9 February at the Georgia World Congress Centre in Atlanta, Georgia.
JR Clancy project manager passes rigging exam
JR Clancy employee Bridget Cox has passed the Entertainment Technician Certification Program (ETCP) for Theatre Rigging.
Stage lifting firms set for PLASA
Entertainment riggers JR Clancy and Hoist UK will showcase a new partnership at next month’s PLASA show, which takes place at London’s Earls Court from 12-15 September.
JR Clancy to provide theatre rigging gear
Theatre rigging firm JR Clancy will provide a range of equipment for the Miller Performing Arts Center in Missouri. The 498-seat proscenium venue is scheduled for completion in October 2010.
Shuttlelift launches new SB gantry series
Gantry crane manufacturer Shuttlelift invited dealers to the official unveiling of its new SB series last month (July).
NAI supplies 11 cranes for shipbuilder
North American Industries (NAI) has designed and manufactured 11 cranes for a South American shipbuilder for a new facility in Argentina.
July 2010
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R&M holds 10th master distributor meeting
R&M Materials Handling held its 10th annual master distributor meeting at its Springfield facility on June 15, 2010.
June 2010
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NAI kits out new steel service center
North American Industries (NAI) has installed overhead bridge crane components and runway electrification systems for Valley Iron's new steel service center in Vacaville, California.
Cattron unveils New England and Carolinas partners
Cattron Group International has contracted O’Leary & Associates Inc to represent the company in New England and New York.
Konecranes closes Wisconsin factory
Konecranes will close its assembly plant in Windsor, Wisconsin by the end of October 2010.
May 2010
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Cattron signs up Mexican partner
Remote control manufacturer Cattron Group International has signed a contract with TTechTrain SA de CV to represent the company in Mexico. TTechTrain will handle all brands for the industrial and rail markets.
US manufacturing rises again
Conditions for the nation's manufacturers improved again in April to its highest level since June 2004, according to the Institute for Supply Management (ISM).
Quality is key
Product quality is the most important supply chain initiative for manufacturers and retailers in 2010, according to a recent survey conducted by analyst firm IDC.
ProMat bedfellow rebranded
The International Robots, Vision and Motion Control Show has been rebranded as Automate, ahead of its next outing alongside ProMat in 2011.
OCH back from NA 2010
OCH magazine is back from NA 2010, which was held in Cleveland, Ohio last week.
April 2010
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NA 2010 underway
The NA 2010 show is underway at the I-X Center in Cleveland, Ohio.
US manufacturing expansion continues
Economic activity in the manufacturing sector expanded in March for the eighth consecutive month, and the overall economy grew for the 11th consecutive month, US supply executives reported in the latest Manufacturing ISM Report on Business.
ThyssenKrupp onboard with NAI
ThyssenKrupp Airport Systems Inc. has invested in a new 20 ton overhead bridge crane at its Fort Worth manufacturing facility in Texas.
MARAD grant to fund crane investments
The US Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) has announced $14.7m in grant awards to help improve 17 small shipyards in 16 states.
JR Clancy comes up Trumps
Stage equipment specialist JR Clancy has overhauled the rigging control system at the Trump Plaza Casino Hotel in Atlantic City, New Jersey as the hotel upgrades its showroom.
CMCO launches new website
Columbus McKinnon Corporation (CMCO) has launched a new corporate website.
Demag DC chain hoists HMI-Certified
Cleveland, Ohio-based Demag Cranes & Components said it is the first manufacturer to receive HMI certification for its DC range of electric chain hoists.
Alps Wire Rope to tackle US jobs and prosperity
Brad Benner, vice president and general manager of Alps Wire Rope Corporation, has been appointed to the advisory board of the Jobs and Prosperity Task Force in the US.
FSU archives JR Clancy rigging history
Florida State University’s (FSU’s) School of Theatre has setup an archive of the history of stage rigging system supplier JR Clancy, after receiving a collection of around 15,000 project and product drawings from the last century produced by engineers at the company.
Galvanizer issued big fine after crane death
V&S Detroit Galvanizing LLC, of Redford, Michigan has been hit with $245,000 of proposed fines by the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) following a fatal crane accident in 2009.
NAI to fuel Houston manufacturing
North American Industries (NAI) is to design and install two 10 ton Class E top-running overhead cranes for Houston OCTG Group.
March 2010
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MHIA to address state of the industry
The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) will conduct its annual press conference during the 2010 North American Material Handling & Logistics Show (NA 2010).
CMCO upgrades Lodestar
Columbus McKinnon Corporation (CMCO) has upgraded its Lodestar electric chain hoist to provide smoother operation in entertainment applications.
Konecranes to grow in North America with Kito alliance
Finnish hoist manufacturer Konecranes has said it will be able to increase its sales in North America after securing a strategic alliance with Japanese counterpart Kito Corporation, which wholly owns Harrington Hoists.
AMH to offer test database
Illinois-based All Material Handling Inc. (AMH) has launched a web-based database system for documenting lifting equipment test data.
Aloi takes cleaning job
Aloi Materials Handling has completed a unique job installing an electric hoist to allow a 2.5 USt chandelier to be lowered for cleaning.
Hirschmann names premier dealers
Pennsylvania-based Hirschmann Automation and Control has named three new premier dealers.
American Crane launches online store
Pennsylvania-based overhead electric crane and hoist manufacturer, American Crane and Equipment Corporation, has moved to improve its web presence by launching a new online catalogue.
Draft chain hoist standard consultation opens
BSR E1.6-3-201x, Selection and Use of Chain Hoists in the Entertainment Industry, is now available for public review.
ProMat interest ‘bodes very well’ for future
The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) said exhibitor interest for ProMat 2011 ‘bodes very well’ for the future.
MHIA forecasts growth in material handling equipment new orders in 2010
Material handling equipment orders contracted 37.4% in 2009 and are forecasted to grow 6-8.5% in 2010, according to the latest Material Handling Equipment Manufacturing (MHEM) forecast, from the Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA).
Magnetek launches brake repair service
Digital power and motion control system specialist Magnetek has launched a new brake repair and recertification program.
February 2010
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APPI introduces upper limit switch for overhead trolleys
Allied Power Products Inc. (APPI) has introduced a new upper limit switch assembly for use with its manual trolleys that allows its Columbia hoists to be used in overhead hoisting applications.
Harrington looks forward with memories of the past
Harrington Hoists has celebrated its 20th anniversary as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kito Corporation by offering a gift made from an original Harrington Hoist dating from the 19th Century.
Cattron to present new EOT crane control at NA 2010
Cattron Group International will present its new LRC-M1 wireless control system for EOT cranes at NA 2010, to be held in Cleveland, Ohio on 26-29 April.
Gorbel launches G-Jib
Gorbel Inc has launched what it is calling ‘a smart alternative to the traditional work station jib/chain hoist combo’.
OCH to exhibit at NA 2010
OCH will exhibit at the 2010 North American Material Handling and Logistics Show (NA 2010).
January 2010
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Robots takeover over at ProMat
North American material handling show ProMat is to join forces with the International Robots, Vision and Motion Control Show in 2011.
Harrington adds to Haiti relief efforts
Harrington Hoists is contributing a range of lifting equipment to relief efforts in Haiti.
CMCO offers Haiti help
Columbus McKinnon Corporation (CMCO) is contributing $40,000 of lifting products and accessories to aid recovery efforts in Haiti.
Harrington issues warning over hoist maintenance
Harrington Hoists’ business development sales manager, Bret Lussow, has said a lack of maintenance on hoists and crane systems is commonplace, and warned this can cause ‘critical dangers’.
Harrington offers temporary hoist anchor
Harrington Hoists has added a new line of universal beam clamps for use as a temporary or semi-permanent hoist anchor point for overhead lifting and vertical rigging applications.
ICHC speakers announced
The preliminary speaker line-up for the inaugural Industrial Crane & Hoist Conference (ICHC) has been announced.
Track system offers alternative to C-track festoons
R&M Materials Handling has introduced the NRGmaster track system, which it said is a modern alternative to C-track festoons.
Vacuum lifter for contoured structures
Anver Corp. has launched a new below-the-hook vacuum lifter fitted with pivoting suction cups to allow the safe lifting of contoured structures and vessels.
December 2009
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MHEFI board of directors elections
George Prest, of Unarco Material Handling, and Will Heddles, of Tiffin Metal Products, have been re-elected to the Material Handling Education Foundation Inc. (MHEFI) board of directors.
New generation of AS/RS crane
Logistics firm TGW-Ermanco has released a new version of its Mustang single-mast automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS).
Manufacturing to grow 5.7% in 2010
Economic growth in the United States will resume in 2010, according to the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) in its December 2009 Semiannual Economic Forecast.
November 2009
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Alps strengthens sales team in northwest
Chicago-based Alps Wire Rope has appointed John Shwartz as northwest regional sales manager in the US.
MHIA predicts new order growth in 2010
The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) has said new order growth of 2-3.5% is possible in 2010.
ARRA funds crane investment
New York State’s Scarano Boat Building Inc has invested in a 10 ton overhead bridge crane thanks to a $376,000 grant as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).
R&M offers HoistMonitor to improve efficiency
Ohio-based R&M Material Handling is now offering HoistMonitor as part of the option list for its RX and QX quick delivery programs, to improve end-user efficiency.
Konecranes’ year to end with Alabama closure
Konecranes is to close its crane production and assembly facility in Birmingham, Alabama by 31 December.
Midwest manufacturing output increases in September
The Chicago Fed Midwest Manufacturing Index (CFMMI) increased 1.0% in September, to a seasonally adjusted level of 82.3, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago.
NAI to supply Guatemalan bridge crane
Massachusetts-based industrial overhead crane manufacturer North American Industries (NAI) has been selected to provide a new overhead crane system in Central America by Pantaleon SA.
Website looks to simplify manufacturers’ software search
Software information service provider Software Advice has launched a website specifically for manufacturers.
October 2009
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CMCO backlog indicates ‘slight recovery’
US hoist and hoist equipment manufacturer Columbus McKinnon Corporation (CMCO) said year-on-year improvements in backlog during the second quarter “may indicate the beginnings of a slight recovery”.
Hoist firm targets national audience with ecommerce
South Carolina-based Hoist Experts has launched a new ecommerce website to take its products and experience to a national audience.
New arbor design to improve stage rigging
Thern Stage Equipment (TSE) has unveiled a new front-loading counterweight arbor that it has designed to provide stagehands with an “attractive solution that solves many of the problems of traditional counterweight rigging”.
UK firm makes US move
UK industrial load monitoring technology firm Straightpoint (UK) Ltd is expanding its export business to take advantage of the weak sterling and rising value of exports, including establishing a US base in California.
New crane control panel from Hitachi
Hitachi America Ltd has launched a new series of bridge crane control and distribution panels.
September 2009
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Alps gets bigger
Alps Wire Rope has expanded its distribution locations in the US as it looks to expand its presence and improve customer service.
OCH seals conference partnership
OCH has signed up as official North American publication for the Industrial Crane & Hoist Conference 2010, organized by US-based publisher Maximum Capacity Media. The event will be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Houston North, Greenspoint, USA, May 26-27.
Cranes to maintain Black Hawks
Overhead crane manufacturer North American Industries (NAI) is designing and building five overhead bridge cranes for an army aviation support facility at the FE Warren Air Force base in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Magnetek launches new control
US control specialist Magnetek has launched a new radio remote control, the Telemotive XLTX.
Harrington unveils new trolley hoist
Harrington Hoists has unveiled a new ultra-low headroom trolley hoist.
USA manufacturing activity shows growth
Suppliers of factory lifting equipment to the US market welcomed news that economic activity in the manufacturing sector expanded in August, following 18 consecutive months of contraction.
August 2009
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Crane duo announce strategic partnership
Lucette Crane Systems, of Cincinnati, and Lilli Crane & Equipment, of Dayton, have announced a strategic partnership with the formation of a new resource for overhead traveling crane sales and service - Custom Crane Solutions.
July 2009
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CMCO consolidates sales force
Columbus McKinnon Corporation (CMCO) is to merge the sales and marketing for all its hoist and rigging products and brands into one sales force.
CMCO announces first quarter results
Columbus McKinnon Corporation (CMCO) has announced financial results for its first quarter of fiscal 2010 that ended on June 30 2009. Current quarter results include the Company’s Pfaff-silberblau (Pfaff) business which was acquired on October 1 2008.
Harrington joins forces with Affiliated Distributors
Harrington Hoists has partnered with Affiliated Distributors, the largest wholesale buying and marketing group in North America with over 530 independent distributor companies and more than 3,000 locations in the US and Canada.
June 2009
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Crane America Services' new home
Crane America Services, a wholly owned subsidiary of Demag Cranes and Components, has relocated its corporate headquarters to Miamisburg, Ohio.
MHIA leads smart marketing
The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) is providing members with free access to a webcast that will help them tackle three factors that are challenging most companies’ ability to market and sell their products and services.
CMCO announces hoist and rigging promotions
Columbus McKinnon (CMCO) has announced two promotions within its hoist and rigging operations...
MHIA market conference moves with the times
A number of changes have been announced for the MHIA’s 2009 Overhead Market Planning Conference in order to make it easier for CMAA, HMI and MMA member companies to attend and reap the rewards.
April 2009
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Detroit Hoist to incorporate Hitachi inverters
Michigan-based wire rope hoist manufacturer Detroit Hoist is to integrate Hitachi America’s SJ200 and SJ300 variable frequency inverters into its standard hoist design on all models through 30hp.
Manufacturing improvement forecast for 2010
There is a light at the end of this tunnel "beginning later this year in some industry segments and most by 2010 to early 2011", according to the MHIA.
SMA appoints director of engineering
Dr Arthur Pantelides has been appointed as director of engineering at Sumitomo Machinery Corporation of America (SMA) to strengthen the company's leadership in the difficult economic climate.
New capacities for air powered hoists
Harrington Hoists has released two further capacities for its TCS Cheetah air powered hoist range.
Clean room hoist
US handling solutions provider David Round Company has introduced a new range of clean room chain hoists for the pharmaceuticals, food processing and electronics manufacturing markets.
March 2009
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OCH names new Group Sales Manager
Progressive Media Publishing has named Martin McCarthy as Group Sales Manager of the company's lifting titles, namely Cranes Today, Hoist and Overhead Crane & Hoist (OCH). He replaces Mark Bridger who has left the company to pursue other business opportunities in the USA.
February 2009
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Harrington launches NER/ER cylinder control option
A new cylinder control option for Harrington Hoists Inc’s NER/ER three-phase electric chain hoists gives operators control over the hoist direction by allowing them to move the in-line handgrip with one hand while positioning the load with the other.
MHIA to exhibit, and present, at ergonomics event
The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) will exhibit at the Institute of Industrial Engineers (IIE) Applied Ergonomic Conference (AEC) from March 23-26 in Reno, Nevada.
January 2009
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New control handle for 5-225kg loads
Ingersoll Rand has unveiled a new control handle for handling loads from 5-225kg.Used with Ingersoll Rand's standard range of pneumatic load balancers, the completely pneumatic unit does not require any electric power supply.Loads are lifted and moved with just one hand. If no pressure is applied to the control handle, the load remains balanced no matter where the load balancer is located on its translation area.With a simple pneumatic sensor on the gripper, two different loads can be balanced: the empty gripper or the gripper with the component to be handled. The inline control adapts, furthermore, to a wide range of loads, starting at around 80% of a load balancer's capacity.
Winch for NASA facility
Fisher Technical Services, Inc. (FTSI) will provide a high speed precision cable winch and motion control system for the testing of potential lunar and planetary surface approach instrumentation packages at NASA.
Cableform expands Digital DC magnet control line
Cableform, Inc. has expanded its patented Optimizer digital DC magnet control line, with the Optimizer Billet Master for hot metal magnet management.
Cervis shows DC crane packages
Cervis, Inc. showcased its DC crane packages at this month's ProMat show. The units are used in many of north America's largest mills, including AK Steel, Jersey Shore Steel and ArcelorMittal Steel.
Pfaff boosts CMCO global sales, but economy and steel prices bite
Columbus McKinnon announced third quarter results for its 2009 fiscal year, on 22 January. The acquisition of the German company Pfaff-silberblau boosted international sales by almost 50%. However, the declining economy and high steel prices hit earnings, leading to 200 job losses, and warning that these cuts may double, to as much as 14% of its workforce.
Tele Radio launches Lynx remote control
Tele Radio has added to its remote control range with the launch of the Lynx model with duplex functions. The system has been developed for applications where there is a "requirement for feedback from the equipment," it said.Both the hand and the stationary units use a duplex two-way communication technique with visible feedback on the transmitter's LEDs.Lynx operates on the "worldwide accepted" 2,4 GHz band which ensures a "powerful, precise radio transmission," according to Tele Radio.It is equipped with bipolar transistors and communicates via serial standards (RS2332, RS485, modbus) with a PC or PLC. A certain software development is required to ensure the communication between the user's PC or PLC and the radio remote control."The hand unit has 16 channels and its own unique ID, from a total of four billion which are accessible," added Tele Radio.The hand unit warns the user when the battery is low and is equipped with five LEDs, where LED 2-5 is user programmable.The system's stationary unit has two open collector outputs and operates on 5-24V DC. The power consumption for 5-12V is 30 mA and for 24V 16 mA.
Three new products from Gorbel
Gorbel, Inc. used last week's ProMat show, which took place at Chicago's McCormick Place South, to unveil three new products.First, it launched a higher capacity Easy ArmÆ Q/iQ Intelligent Lifting Arm, integrating patented G-ForceÆ Q and iQ lifting technology and a processor controlled servo-drive system into an articulating jib design.It also showed a tool solutions product line which features new 50 and 150lb jib cranes, along with a new tool trolley. The new Tool Solutions jib is the latest addition to Gorbel's enclosed track work station jib product line. It was designed to be a smaller, lighter, and more cost effective solution for applications with suspended tools.Also new was the Tether Track fall arrest anchor systems, "a reliable, cost-effective way to reduce the risk of injury in elevated work environments," it said. Standard systems are designed to support multiple workers, each weighing up to 310lbs with tools. Heavier worker systems can also be custom engineered.
MHIA announces staff promotions
The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) has announced the promotion of Tom Carbott to vice president of sales and events. In this role, Tom will be responsible for both sales and exhibitor services for the ProMat and NA 2010 trade events.
Cattron to unveil new product at ProMat
Remote control firm Cattron Group International will introduce CattronConnect at ProMat 2009, which takes place at Chicago's McCormick Place South, January 12-15.
December 2008
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Vacuum lifter for heavy porous blocks
A new, below-the-hook, self-contained vacuum lifter with an electric power station for handling heavy porous blocks and construction materials has been introduced by Anver Corporation of Hudson, Massachusetts.
US firm snaps up stage rigger Summit Steel??
UK event rigging company Summit Steel has been bought by Production Resource Group LLC (PRG).OCH understands that founder Jon Bray and his team will remain in their roles, while the brand, logo and identity will exist as before.PRG CEO Jere Harris said: "We are delighted to add Summit Steel to PRG's portfolio of brands in the UK and Europe. A specialist rigging supplier of this strength and reputation will complement and enhance our existing brands in the region and our business globally."Bray responded: "The team at Summit Steel are looking forward to becoming a member of PRG's group of companies. Our relationship with our new UK sister companies within the group, PRG Lighting and Essential Lighting, will provide exciting new collaborative opportunities for our businesses."He added that the resources available to the firm from a global organization will "help us develop the Summit Steel brand further and diversify the range of equipment."Summit is the exclusive supplier of rigging services to London's O2 Arena.?PRG, which was formed in 1996, provides lighting, rigging, sound and projection services from 14 locations in the US, alongside bases in Canada, Mexico, the UK and Japan.
HMI introduces Certified Program
The Hoist Manufacturers Institute (HMI) has introduced the HMI-Certified Program for manual hoists, manual and powered trolleys, powered chain hoists and powered wire rope hoists.
ProMat staff training opportunity
The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) has authorized Jefferson Davis, president, Competitive Edge, to offer an exclusive training opportunity to ProMat booth staff on Sunday 11th January from 3-4.30pm, the day before the four-day event begins at McCormick Place South, Chicago.
November 2008
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MMA introduces Certified Program
The Monorail Manufacturers Association (MMA) has introduced the MMA-Certified Program for enclosed track workstation cranes, monorails and patented track systems.The MMA-Certified Program was developed by the MMA to instill confidence in product specifiers and end users through evidence that the MMA-Certified products meet the American National Standards (ANSI) MH27.1 or MH27.2 Specifications, and that the products are properly supported in the market.The certification consists of two sections. The first section consists of a review by a registered professional engineer to determine that the product design meets or exceeds the design requirements of the ANSI specifications by completing the Declaration of Conformity - Technical. Upon affirmation of this, the Declaration of Conformity - Technical is stamped by the registered professional engineer.The second section addresses service and support. A Declaration of Conformity - Service and Support is signed by the company's CEO. This Declaration of Conformity - Service and Support affirms that the company provides: - Literature and manuals that address safety, installation, maintenance, warranty, and replacement parts.- Product training and technical support.- Availability of spare parts for the "life cycle" of the product.- Qualified service and repair capability.- Proof of adequate liability insurance.The Monorail Manufacturers Association administers MMA-Certified and only those products that have met the technical, support and service requirements can display the MMA-Certified logo. Companies having earned the MMA-Certified status for their products will display the MMA-Certified logo on their products, literature and brochures.For more information on the MMA Certified Program visit www.mmacertified.org.
MHIA presents to China forum
The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) presented an overview of the United States overhead material handling market during the 2008 'China Forum on Crane New Technology' last month in Shanghai.The event was sponsored by the China Heavy Machinery Industry Association and Beijing Materials Handling Institute. The forum was held on October 29-30, with over 300 people participating representing crane manufacturers throughout China.Participants included business principals and their crane technology, marketing and sales staff.Xiao Liqun, director general of the China Heavy Machinery Industry Association introduced Hal Vandiver (pictured), MHIA executive vice president of business development. Vandiver provided attendees with an overview of the United States market, statistics from MHIA and information on standards, specifications and programming from the Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA), Hoist Manufacturers Institute (HMI) and Monorail Manufacturers Association (MMA).The following individuals joined Vandiver:?- Jim Robertson, Cattron Group International?- Martin Chen, Cattron Group International?- Guo Baoshun, Gorbel, Inc.?- Wylie Chenn, Columbus McKinnon?- Richard Howes, OCH magazine- Mark Bridger, OCH magazine
CM revenues up 6.7%, despite stormy market
Columbus McKinnon (CM) has reported revenues for the second quarter of its 2009 fiscal year up 6.7% to $154.7m. Export growth, at 10.6% over the quarter, outpaced domestic growth of 4.9%. The company's delivery schedule and margins were hit by Hurricane Ike.
October 2008
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Gosan opens US facility
Spain-based manufacturer Gosan has opened a US facility in Jacksonville, Florida, where it will produce sheaves for the overhead lifting markets of north and south America.The company has 40,000 sq ft of manufacturing and warehousing space, and will manufacture between 10-20,000 sheaves a year, it said. Gosan will share the new facility with JC Renfroe & Sons, Inc., which has been its US marketing partner for the past six years.Juan Miguel Gutierrez, managing director, Gosan, said the company has invested over $3million to bring its sheave manufacturing to the US. "Once we are in full operation, we expect to have 30 new employees," he added. "With the increase of construction in developing nations and with the movement to increase oil drilling in the US, we believe our market for sheaves is only going to grow."Gosan has been manufacturing welded machined steel sheave products in Europe since 1971. Its product lines have been used in a variety of industries including construction, marine and oil rigging.
Konecranes expands Canadian operations
Konecranes has acquired the business of the Canadian crane and crane service company Provincial Services Crane Specialists, located in Allanburg, Ontario.Konecranes acquired the assets from the owner, who will remain with the company for a transitional period. The company has 20 employees and net sales of approximately EUR4million. The value of the acquisition was not disclosed.Provincial Services Crane Specialists was founded in 1980 and is today a recognized name in the Canadian lifting market. The company is specialised in overhead crane inspection, maintenance, repair, spare parts, modernization and lifting equipment.The company sells its products and services directly to end users in the steel, mining, power and general manufacturing industries. Through the acquisition, Konecranes will be able to expand its Canadian operations in these industries."The market coverage of Provincial Services is quite complementary to ours,” said Keith King, president, Konecranes Canada, Inc. "Provincial Services will help to provide us with entry to the primary steel industry along with their specific knowledge of this industry, close relationships and Konecranes technologies," he added.
CMCO names two new board members
Columbus McKinnon Corporation (CMCO) has swelled its number of board members to nine.Christian Ragot, president and chief executive officer of FreightCar America, Inc., and Liam McCarthy, president and CEO of Molex Inc., will become members of the board of directors, effective November 10 2008."Chris and Liam are outstanding additions to our board, and we will benefit greatly from their years of industrial and international business experience," said board chairman Ernest R. Verebelyi.He added: "Their appointments will further strengthen the skill set of our board, as Columbus McKinnon continues to execute its growth strategy and expands globally."Ragot joined Chicago-based FreightCar America as chief operating officer in 2007, and later that year was appointed to serve as president, CEO and a director of the company.Previously, Ragot served for seven years in a number of executive positions with Westport, CT-based Terex Corporation, including group president of Terex Utilities, Roadbuilding & Advance Mixers.Ragot also held senior management positions at Ingersoll-Rand Company, including time spent in various distribution, sales and marketing positions as well as vice president and general manager of its European operations based in Paris, France.He earned a BS from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and an MS from The Johns Hopkins University.McCarthy, meanwhile, began his career with Molex in Ireland in 1976, in cost and management accounting. Prior to becoming president and COO of Molex Inc. in 2005, he served as vice president of operations for Europe, president of the Americas region data communications division, and as a senior executive in a variety of international leadership positions, including in Singapore and other areas of the Asia-Pacific region.McCarthy earned his Business and Commerce Degree from University College Dublin (UCD) and his MBA from Henley Management College (accredited by Brunel University) in the United Kingdom.
Demag unveils ProMat showcase
Demag Cranes & Components (booth 2272) will show its DR20 wire rope hoist at ProMat 2009, which takes place at Chicago's McCormick Place South, January 12-15.
CAN-D launches new line of cable entry fittings
CAN-D Electrification Systems Ltd. of Burlington, Ontario, Canada, is manufacturing a new line of cable entry fittings, "designed specifically for 600 volt flat cables used in industrial crane and hoist applications," it said.Made of high impact materials that are oil resistant, units are suitable for temperature ratings from -25 to 80 degrees C, "to meet most industrial applications," it added.The cable grips are made from a two-piece body that incorporates an interlocking tongue and groove design "providing superior strength."Units have a 1in National Pipe Thread (NPT) nut and a rubber gasket for securing to electrical enclosures.The universal body utilizes various caps with a rectangular slot to fit a variety of flat cable sizes. For example, it can accommodate 14 American Wire Gauge (AWG, 2.5mm2), to 6AWG (16mm2) in a 4 conductor cable or 14AWG (2.5mm2) or 16AWG (1.5mm2) in 8 or 12 conductor cable.
Cervis unveils ProMat package
Cervis, Inc. will show a range of remote control products at ProMat 2009, which takes place at Chicago's McCormick Place South, January 12-15.
Bushman names application engineer
Bushman Equipment, Inc., a manufacturer of custom-engineered material handling equipment, has named Paul Karrels as application engineer.
CMCO set to issue latest financial report
CMCO has arranged a teleconference and webcast for Friday 24 October at 10.00 eastern time, at which management will discuss the company's fiscal 2009 second quarter financial results and strategy.
56 cranes for new wind turbine manufacturing facility
Vestas Towers A/S, a global wind power company headquartered in Randers, Denmark, has selected Konecranes to supply 56 cranes for its new wind turbine tower manufacturing facility in Pueblo, Colorado.
Ladle cranes bound for Canadian smelter
Xstrata Nickel, a business unit of Falconbridge Ltd., has ordered two 100t, four-girder ladle cranes from Konecranes. The purchase is part of a major upgrade of the converter aisle at Xstrata's Sudbury smelter in Ontario, Canada.The cranes will be used to rotate, tip and pour ladles of molten nickel, conveying it through a multi-stage refining process.
CMCO buys Pfaff-silberblau
US giant Columbus McKinnon Corporation (CMCO) has acquired German hoist and rigging retailer Pfaff Beteiligungs GmbH (Pfaff-silberblau), a leading European supplier of lifting and material handling products with a sales revenue of EUR62m.
September 2008
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Konecranes markets service package
Konecranes, Inc. has increased the marketing of its Mainman crane and hoist inspection package, "a multi-point visual inspection of overhead lifting equipment enhanced by proprietary software," it said.Inspection results are delivered in a detailed report that can be hand delivered or accessed through the internet. "The report alerts customers of maintenance problems and identifies areas that are not in compliance with regulatory standards," it added.For more click here.
Kahn Steel Co. acquires overhead crane
Kahn Steel Co. has bought a new facility on the Kansas City Southern Railway, which includes an overhead crane, according to reports on yourmetalnews.com.The report said Kahn bought the 50,000sq ft building and an additional 7.5 acres at 1710 Southern Road in Kansas City's Executive Park for an undisclosed amount.It added: "Jackson County tax records show a 2008 market value of nearly $1million for the property. However, the records also show that it was sold for $1.9m in 2005, when the county listed its market value as $941,850."Kahn Steel plans to start operations at the facility on October 1.
Overhead crane operators on strike
Two overhead crane operators are on strike at a Boeing picket line in Everett, Washington, according to reports on socialistworker.org.The report said: "The strike at Boeing by 27,500 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is in its third week. Despite earning record profits of over $8.5 billion since the last strike was settled in 2005, Boeing forced the IAM onto the picket line with an offer that included inadequate pension and wage increases, more outsourcing of union jobs and increased health care costs."Strikers Don Grinde, a 31-year employee at Boeing, and Steve Parsley, who has been at the company for more than 19 years are on their fifth and fourth strikes, respectively, against Boeing.Full story here.
R&M markets QL modular crane package
The QL modular crane package by R&M Materials Handling, Inc., is a "complete crane component package," it said.
NA returns to Cleveland in 2010
The MHIA has confirmed dates for the 2010 North American Material Handing & Logistics Show (NA 2010), which will be held April 26-29 at Cleveland's I-X Center.The show will feature over 150,000 square feet of exhibits from over 500 of the leading suppliers of material handling and logistics solutions for manufacturing, distribution and supply chain operations.NA 2010 will be the most comprehensive material handling and logistics show and conference held in the US in 2010. Exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling and logistics industry, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems.To make it easier for attendees to find the solutions they need, the NA show floor will be divided into three solution-specific centers: manufacturing and assembly, fulfillment and delivery, and information technology.The NA 2010 exhibit spacedraw will be held January 14 2009 during the ProMat 2009 event at Chicago's McCormick Place South. This will be the first opportunity for organizations to secure exhibit space at this event.
Funding for research confirmed
The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) has announced its first ever direct funding of material handling and logistics research.A $50,000 grant will support Ohio State University (OSU) researchers towards the creation of a research center focused on distribution ergonomics. The research grant is provided by MHIA through its College Industry Council on Material Handling Education (CICMHE).Dr. Carolyn Sommerich and Dr. Stephen Lavender of OSU were awarded the grant for their research proposal entitled, "Developing a Distribution Ergonomics Research Center." The specific aims of the proposal are:?- To create a research center that develops and evaluates ergonomic methods, tools and processes that will allow distribution center (DC) workers to work more safely and efficiently.- To develop partnerships between regional DCs and material handling equipment manufacturers to assist the DCs in becoming "workplaces of excellence" via the proper utilization of ergonomics and lean engineering.
August 2008
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Morris launches new electric chain hoist
Morris Material Handling, Inc., the original equipment manufacturer of P&H cranes, hoists and replacement parts, has introduced the ZIP-V electric chain hoist, with lifting capacities from 1/8 to 5 tons.
Industry expert joins EC&M
International crane control professional Michael Urbassik has joined The Electrical Controller and Manufacturing Company, LLC (EC&M) as advanced technology engineer.Urbassik has more than 33 years of application experience in electromechanical and solid-state crane technology and is the holder of two patents.He will be involved in consulting, customer training and the deployment of EC&M’s electromechanical crane components and products. He will also assume a leadership role in applying the other advanced technology products sold by EC&M.A published, international authority on DC contactor and solid state technology applications for steel mill overhead cranes, Urbassik is also a regular presenter at Association for Iron and Steel Technology (AIST) crane symposiums and past vice chair of the AIST Crane Operating Committee. He plans to continue to remain active with the AIST COC.Urbassik was formerly with Eaton Electrical (Cutler-Hammer) of Cleveland, Ohio. EC&M has been providing products, solutions and expertise to the heavy-duty crane control industry for more than a century. The company manufactures and supports DC and AC crane control products from its headquarters in St. Matthews, South Carolina, and has customers in the steel, shipbuilding, concrete and other heavy industries across the United States and worldwide.
R&M markets QX modular crane package
The QX modular crane package by R&M Materials Handling offers a "pre-engineered, modular crane package intended to maximize performance," it said.Designed to expedite simple assembly, ease of operation and reduced maintenance, the modular crane package is said to be ideal for most industrial crane applications.The Spacemaster SX electric wire rope hoist, with lifting capacities from 0.5 to 80 tons and lifting speeds from 10/1.5-62/10fpm, is the highlight of the package, according to R&M. The large diameter rope drum of the SX hoist offers low headroom, easy positioning, closer approaches and reduced component wear. The hoist is outfitted with additional performance-enhancing features including sealed brakes, a two-speed hoist motor and trolley inverter control.Plug-in electrical cabling (available for most packages) facilitates simple, fast installation and allows the operator to control movements from a convenient push-button station. The package comes with standard safety features, including an electro-mechanical weight overload limit switch that prevents lifting loads in excess of 110% of the rated capacity.The package includes end trucks capable for CMAA Class C or Class D crane duty. The modular design of the bridge drives includes a gearbox, motor and brake, specially designed for crane applications.The bridge controls feature a standard inverter that offers two-speed or two-step infinitely variable speed control.For more information about the QX modular crane package, or to obtain more information on all the ways R&M Materials Handling, Inc., can benefit your material handling challenges, click here or call 800 955 9967.
Austin Ventures snaps up rigging firm
Austin Ventures (AV) has acquired Delta Rigging & Tools (Delta). The transaction closed on August 4 2008 and financial terms were undisclosed. AV investment professionals Joe Aragona and Scott Donaldson will join Delta’s board of directors."We are extremely excited about our investment in Delta Rigging & Tools, given its outstanding management team, strong track record of growth and profitability, and exceptional customer base," said Aragona, a general partner with AV.Delta, headquartered in Lake Jackson, Texas, is a one-stop provider of lifting products and services within the large and fragmented domestic lifting equipment and rigging industry.Delta offers a complete portfolio of lifting solutions, including hoists, winches, wire rope, synthetic slings, accessory parts and hardware as well as testing, inspection, and field services. Delta serves a national footprint of customers and end user markets with particular strength in various energy applications throughout the Gulf Coast of Texas and Louisiana.AV and Delta's management team have partnered with CIT Energy, a division of the CIT Group, and Madison Capital Funding to provide the equity and debt capital necessary to support Delta’s continued growth and success. "This transaction is excellent news for Delta's customers and employees," said Kevin Rodgers, Delta CEO.Austin Ventures has been working with entrepreneurs to build companies since 1979, it said.
Deshazo wins $29million contract
Deshazo Crane Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mitchell Industries Inc., has been awarded a $29million contract to provide 36 overhead cranes to the new Thyssen Krupp steel mill in Mobile, Alabama.
Freeland Hoist & Crane wins Shaw-Box contract
Freeland Hoist & Crane Inc. has won a $14,883 contract to supply a 10 ton capacity Shaw-Box wire rope hoist with motorized trolley, for use at a United States Coast Guard (USCG) facility in Seattle.Contract award number: HSCG85-08-P-6BXC00.Solicitation number: HSCG85-08-Q-6BXC00.Contact: Marilou M Ponge, purchasing agent, email: marilou.m.ponge@uscg.mil, tel: 510 637 5987.
Harrington enhances chain hoist range
Harrington Hoists, Inc. has added the 'Guardian' Smart Brake Technology to its NER/ER three-phase electric chain hoist line.All standard models are UL listed, with capacities ranging from 1/8-20 tons, all offered in standard single speed and under-the-cover variable frequency drive dual speed.Additionally, new motor, brake and inverter components lower noise levels resulting in increased operator comfort. All models have a three-year warranty.Harrington added: "Enhanced premium quality features also include low-headroom upper and lower limit switches, heavy-duty contactors, super strength, nickel-plated load chain and five or six pocket load sheaves."Count hour meters, which record lowering starts and hoist on time, are standard on both the NER and ER models for preventive maintenance.Harrington Hoists, Inc. is a Kito Group Company located in Manheim, Pennsylvania and Corona, California. It supplies electric and air powered chain hoists and trolleys, electric wire rope hoists and trolleys, lever hoists, manual hand chain hoists, push and geared trolleys, overhead cranes, crane accessories and a full line of replacement parts.
Cattron names Chinese marketing boss
Cattron Group International has named Martin Chen as marketing and sales manager, China located at the Shanghai office. Reporting to Jim Robertson, executive director, business development, Chen is responsible for providing leadership and direction for all of Cattron's marketing and sales operations in China.He will develop new strategic business relationships, expand Cattron's distributor sales network in China by adding additional distributors as well as work directly with major key accounts within China. Chen has over 16 years experience in the industrial market as well as over 12 years experience in sales and marketing. He holds a master's degree in business administration, managerial science and engineering from Webster University in St. Louis.He previously worked for US- and German-based companies where he gained significant experience building distributor networks in China. "China has great market potential for industrial wireless remote control products and with CGI's support in bringing the latest technology and solutions to China, I will strive to steadily grow this business," said Chen."We are extremely pleased that Martin has elected to join the Cattron team. His experience brings invaluable expertise to Cattron," responded Jim Robertson.More information on the company and its products is available by calling 724 962 3571 or online at www.cattrongroup.com.
Building the workforce of the future
On January 13, renowned journalist Forrest Sawyer will moderate a ProMat show keynote entitled 'building the workforce of the future'.Sawyer will address how the world's labor force is changing. He will outline the impact of baby boomer retirement, which will set the stage for major shifts in workplace demographics including a declining working population through 2025. The implications for manufacturing and the supply chain are far-reaching.Even if you have never used the term 'disruptive demographics' you will soon be living it.Baby boomers are beginning to retire, setting the stage for major shifts in workplace demographics including a declining working population through 2025. Skill sets are rapidly changing. Life/work balance is taking on new meaning. And there is often a huge disconnect between people already in the workforce and those just entering it. That is disruptive demographics.Will the next generation be ready to step into their roles? How will these roles change? The implications for manufacturing and the supply chain are widespread.Get an in-depth look at these changes and how companies like yours can prepare for them during this important session including:- How worker shortages in key areas such as manufacturing, engineering and distribution will impact your bottom line.- How to attract and retain the next generation of workers who have different motivations and reward structures.- How to adapt to take advantage of new competitive opportunities created by the aging workforce and disruptive demographics.The ProMat keynote will consist of a panel of four experts at the forefront of this important issue and moderated by renowned business journalist Forrest Sawyer.They will provide real-world perspective, detail how the workforce is changing and offer practical ideas that will help you adapt to this change as you build your workforce of the future.
Research advancements shared
Material handling and logistics researchers from around the world met from May 28-June 2 2008 during the 10th International Material Handling Research Colloquium (IMHRC).This biannual event sponsored by the College Industry Council on Material Handling Education (CICMHE) of the Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA), brought together researchers to discuss current and future material handling research.
Manufacturing improvement forecast
Manufacturing improvement forecast for 2010. Click here for more.
Magnetek acquires Saminco product line
Magnetek, Inc. has acquired the DDC direct DC drive product line from Saminco, Inc., Fort Myers, and the associated DDC technology, patent and intellectual property rights from co-owners Eaton Corporation and Saminco.
July 2008
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CMCO announces latest financial results
Columbus McKinnon Corporation (CMCO) has announced financial results for its first quarter fiscal 2009 that ended on June 29 2008. Prior periods have been restated to reflect the classification of the company's Univeyor business as discontinued operations.
CMCO sells Univeyor business
Columbus McKinnon Corporation (CMCO) has signed a definitive agreement to sell its Univeyor business to a newly-formed company established by the owner of a Danish material handling company, in a transaction expected to close on July 25 2008.Prior to the transfer, the company will repay Univeyor's debt obligations of approximately $15.2million.The company confirmed its intent to divest Arden, Denmark-based Univeyor in January 2008, "as the subsidiary's sales channels, business model and margins were not in line with the company's long-term strategy and performance goals," said CMCO.In fiscal year 2008, Univeyor's results negatively impacted company earnings by $10.1m, or $0.53 per diluted share.In its first quarter of fiscal 2009 financial results, reported separately, CMCO disclosed that it accounted for Univeyor as a discontinued operation.
R&M raises profile of electric chain hoist
R&M Materials Handling, Inc., has enhanced the exposure of its Loadmate electric chain hoist, which offers lifting capacities from 1/8 to 5 tons.
Cattron names new sales chief
Cattron Group International (CGI) has named James Kingerski as executive vice president, marketing and sales, to be based at its Sharpsville, Pennsylvania headquarters.
CMCO schedules latest teleconference
Columbus McKinnon Corporation has scheduled a teleconference and webcast for Thursday 24 July at 10am eastern time at which management will discuss the company's fiscal 2009 first quarter financial results and strategy. The company will issue its earnings release for the fiscal 2009 first quarter on July 24 before the market opens.Interested parties in the United States and Canada can participate in the teleconference by dialing +1 888 459 1579, asking to be placed in the "Columbus McKinnon quarterly conference call," providing the password "Columbus McKinnon," and identifying conference leader "Tim Tevens" when asked.The toll number for parties outside the United States and Canada is +1 210 234 7695.
Cattron names executive director, business development
Cattron Group International has named James Robertson as executive director, business development at the Sharpsville, Pennsylvania headquarters.
Another vacuum lifter from Anver
A new, high capacity vacuum lifter that features a hydraulic powered tilter for handling steel fabrications up to 10,000lbs, without chains or slings, is being introduced by Anver Corporation of Hudson, Massachusetts.
June 2008
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Stage set for MHIA Fall Meeting
The MHIA Annual Meetings will be held September 7-11 at The Phoenician in Scottsdale, Arizona. Complete meeting details and on-line registrations are available at www.mhia.org/fall2008.
NA seminars can now be viewed online
The NA 2008 Show and Educational Conference featured 70 on-show-floor seminars in the NA 2008 Knowledge Center. The majority of these 45-minute seminars can now be viewed as Webinars on www.nashow.com.
Added value for MHIA members
As a new member benefit, every MHIA member now receives a complimentary upgrade of its current listing on MHIA.org.
MHIA ShowPro 2008 coming to Chicago
The MHIA ShowPro 2008 trade show workshop, in support of ProMat 2009, will be held September 18-19 at Chicago's McCormick Place.
May 2008
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Cervis launches new website
Cervis, Inc, a provider of wireless and electronic controls solutions for mobile and industrial equipment, has launched a new website at www.cervis.net.
R&M promotes Stagemaker range
R&M Materials Handling Inc. distributes the Stagemaker entertainment hoist, an ergonomic solution designed to lift staging, theatrical and lighting equipment, to the Americas.
Drivecon names sales manager
Drivecon, a leading manufacturer of drives, controls and automated systems, has named Carl Walters as sales manager. Walters will be responsible for managing the sales operations and guiding the strategic growth plans for the organization.
Kentucky home for HBC-radiomatic
HBC-radiomatic, headquartered in Crailsheim, Germany, will move its North American headquarters to Hebron, Kentucky.
April 2008
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Job website to target students
Gateway, the first website dedicated solely to the recruitment of students within the material handing industry was recently launched by the Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA).Gateway was developed to attract and recruit students who are seeing employment opportunities within the material handling industry and to strengthen relationships between material handling academia and industry.Gateway includes a resume bank that is offered at no charge to students and is also open to prospective employers who are searching for prospective candidates.
March 2008
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Process crane reliability survey
Konecranes, Inc. is offering a process crane reliability survey (CRS) designed to uncover problems that are undetectable by standard regulatory inspections.During a CRS, the Konecranes team studies equipment documentation, interviews crane users, and uses advanced diagnostic tools to penetrate deep into equipment.The CRS can also help to improve crane performance and reliability by providing a guide for repairs and upgrades.Divided into four modules - CORE inspection and analysis, structures and working conditions, components, and maintenance and reliability - the CRS covers a range of subject matter.The CORE inspection and analysis includes an overall inspection and analysis of the crane, including a service life analysis, a detailed crane inspection, detailed crane identification, and an executive summary.The structures and working conditions analysis, meanwhile, includes an examination of the crane's condition by evaluating the operating equipment, including an ambient conditions analysis, a power supply analysis, a geometric analysis, and a steel structure analysis.Finally, the components analysis includes a detailed assessment of the present condition of the crane's key components, an electrical component analysis, and an analysis of the motor, rope, gears and hook.
February 2008
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Spanco launches Beam Boss tractor drive
Spanco, Inc. has launched its new Beam Boss beam tractor drive, the first offering from its new Boss line of products. The unit will bring motorised power to bridge cranes or trolley hoists, available in a wide range of standard speeds with many optional features.Primarily designed for indoor service, the Beam Boss can run on an I-beam or wide flange beam with lower flange from 3.25-8.5in with a 1in thick maximum. It can navigate curves down to a 60in radius and is rated for H3/Class C service. Hardened flat tread wheels are provided with all drives intended to operate on patented track. Optional features include explosion proof controls, spark resistant wheels, soft start, variable frequency drives, and many more.
Coffing to show JLC-V models at NA
Coffing (booth 3208), a CM brand, will show its JLC-V models, which now feature a variable frequency drive, at NA08, which will take place at the I-X Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA, from April 21-24. The compact size of the drive unit allows neat and complete placement under the cover of the hoist. "Combine this new JLC-V option with the renowned Coffing design features of a five-pocket load sheave, multiple-disc motor brake and overload clutch and you have the best performance value in the marketplace today," it said. The Coffing variable frequency drive (VFD) allows for unsurpassed load-spotting and inching capability. The VFD offers additional speed flexibility that standard 2-speed motors cannot offer. The soft starting and stopping of the unit is perfect for delicate applications and reduces the daily wear and tear on the hoist, it said. The JLC-V models are rated for loads from 1/8 to 2 US tons, and are capable of lifting speeds of 8 to 32 feet per minute depending on the capacity. Standard lifts of 10, 15, and 20ft with other lifts are available. Standard push-button drop is 4-feet less than lift.The Coffing JLC-V drives feature a closed loop system, which monitors the load hook's direction and speed. Additional components monitor motor amperage to provide consistent and reliable operation. In addition, in-field, instant programming allows speeds from infinitely variable (12:1 speed ratio) to any intermediate, predetermined speed range. The standard 2-step buttons allow the operator to increase and maintain the lifting or lowering speeds. The optional 3-step buttons allow the operator to increase, maintain, or decrease the lifting or lowering speeds without interruption. The JLC-V can be mounted with rigid or swivel top hook, lug, plain, geared, and motorised trolley. In addition, the variable frequency drives can also be externally mounted to motorised trolley units. The JLC-V features a lifetime warranty with a durable construction and compliance with ASME/ANSI B30.16.
Control Chief announces NA08 plans
Control Chief will exhibit both its Advantage Series remote control receiver and its durable LJ45 wireless remote control BellyBox style transmitter at NA08, which takes place at the I-X Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA, from April 21-24. The Advantage Series utilises "PLC on a Chip" technology which allows for application specific ladder logic programming. The system has been engineered and designed to be modular in form, providing both analog and digital input and output capabilities for multiple voltage and current options. The LJ45 "is a perfect fit for those in industry who need a solution that fits between standard product technology and custom engineered technology," it says.
Lift-It to stage sling and rigging conference
Lift-It Manufacturing will host a sling, rigging and fall prevention conference, in Los Angeles, California, April 22-23.The two-day seminar will address risk exposure and the identification of potential hazards common to the lifting business.Day one features sling user and inspector classes, presented by Mike Gelskey, president of Lift-It Manufacturing. Fall prevention training and demonstrations will be presented by representatives from DBI/Sala during a factory tour of the Lift-It facility, which will also feature fabrication and testing demos. The second day includes a sling and rigging class, presented by Harley Gist. The format will include basic and advanced rigging in a classroom setting, as well as hands on rigging in the afternoon. Early registration is encouraged as class sizes are deliberately limited for "maximum benefit and participation." Contact Michelle Brown, conference coordinator, tel: +1 323 582 6076 ex 715, email: michelle@lift-it.com. Registration forms can also be found on the Lift-It website at www.lift-it.com
OCH exhibiting at NA08
OCH has received confirmation that it will exhibit at booth 2725 at NA08, which will be held at the I-X Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA, from April 21-24. On a show floor packed with storage and automation equipment and lift trucks - there will be more than ever this year - it's so important that overhead lifting equipment is given the exposure it deserves. Of equal significance is the need to introduce it to potential visitors before they get in the show grounds. The OCH team is passionate about promoting overhead lifting above all other forms of material handling. There are clear advantages of, say, gantry and jib cranes over widely used lift trucks. But the challenge is positioning the products in a way that convinces the end user market that is the case. In a recent poll of visitors to OCH's parent site (www.hoistmagazine.com), the majority (61%) said the main reason they choose overhead lifting equipment over fork lift trucks is to clear floor space. Some 22% said trucks are cumbersome, noisy and dirty. The former reason is a real selling point and it is just one of the messages OCH will be trying to get through to the sales channels during NA08, America's largest trade show relevant to this industry of the year. What advantages do your products have over alternative forms of lifting? Don't be shy about marketing your products and brands directly against the competition. It's one thing contributing to trade associations and product groups, but only when you unite forces against the lift truck business will you gain a priceless portion of the massive slice of the market they currently enjoy. Send in all your product news to gain maximum online and print exposure ahead of NA08. And don't forget to drop by booth 2725 if you're at the show.
Demag to show DR20 hoists at NA
The DR20 is standardised with a long list of features and is used on double girder cranes with the EZDR hoist trolley. This trolley is dimensionally optimised to meet the market requirements for these cranes.Used in a wide variety of industries, the DR20 features duty classifications ranging from FEM 1 Am to FEM 4m, capacities from 6.3 to 50 US tons, and hoist speeds in a range of 12 FPM to 64 FPM.The DR20 features quiet running, two-speed hoist motors, engineered for high cycling rates and accurate positioning, or VFC controls for higher speeds combined with "partial load express speed" for optimum efficiency."Computer controlled, low current switching circuitry significantly extends contactor life," Demag says. "A microprocessor provides real-time diagnostics as well as service and maintenance information covering hoist and crane functions," it adds.This information can be accessed via control pendant or radio transmitter mounted LCD screens. Communication with the crane is achieved with either a laptop or Pocket PC (PDA), with pre-loaded software from Demag, via infrared, without leaving the floor.Operational safety is enhanced with standard hoist overload protection, upper and lower geared limit switches, brake wear monitoring and load spectrum recording. Additional standard features include a fast acting hoist brake, protective rope guide, lubricated for life gear reducer and state-of-the-art electrical equipment. Hard-wired push button pendants or optional radio controls are available.
Gorbel unveils NA08 plans
Gorbel Inc. will exhibit the latest addition to its line of G-Force intelligent lifting devices at NA08, which will be held at the I-X Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA, from April 21-24.The new Q and iQ units are available in a 660lb (330kg) capacity, extending the capacity of the G-Force product line beyond the previous limit of 380lbs.The Q 660 is the base model, which comes loaded with many standard options. The iQ 660 is the more advanced unit that comes standard with added programmability for increased flexibility. Gorbel said: "The Q and iQ units combine the responsiveness of a human operator with the power of a machine. They are capable of more precise placement than traditional hoists, plus they're more responsive than traditional air balancers."By giving operators greater control over the lodas that they are lifting and placing, the G-Force Q and iQ can improve operator safety, product quality, and overall productivity in that work cell, it added.The Q and iQ 660 units are ideal for larger capacity lifting applications, including lifting fully dressed engines and transmissions, changing out expensive machine tooling and dies on production machinery, heavy equipment manufacturing, and large valve assembly for the oil and natural gas industry.
Konecranes wins repeat order for RTGs
Konecranes has received an order for six rubber tired gantry (RTG) cranes from SSA Marine. The parties have agreed not to disclose the value of the order.The cranes are for its Mexican cargo terminal SSA Mexico, Manzanillo in Colima. They will be delivered during the fourth quarter of 2008.The six RTGs will be used to provide "flexible, high capacity container handling," according to Konecranes. The 16-wheel RTGs have a lifting capacity of 50t and can stack one over six containers high and six wide plus a truck lane.There are 18 Konecranes RTGs in the Manzanillo port, the first of which were installed at the end of 1990s.The port of Manzanillo is the largest port in Mexico and a prime port of entry to the country, with an annual capacity of 1.41million TEUs."Our cooperation with Konecranes has run very smoothly," said Troy Hatherell, general manager at SSA Mexico."The RTGs ordered are high-efficiency cranes with modern technology. With these new cranes we are looking to increase productivity at our port."
Morris to join Army programme
Morris Material Handling will officially join the Army's PaYS (Partnership for Youth Success) programme tomorrow (Thursday 14 February 2008).Fabio Fiorino, president of Morris Material Handling, and Brigadier Gen. Dave Mann, the Deputy Commanding General of the United States Army Recruiting Command, will sign the ceremonial document at Morris Material Handing's Windsor component plant.The ceremony will incude remarks and presentations by LTC Miller, Brigadier Gen. Mann and Fiorino. Several newly hired Morris Material Handling employees who had recently retired from the military will attend the event.
OCH LATEST NEWS
The Supply Chain Execution Systems & Technology Group (SCE) of the Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) will sponsor a webinar on February 27 at 11.30 EST entitled 'Go Green, Save Green: Supply Chain Improvements that Save Money While Saving the Environment.'During this webinar, logistics and information technology experts will address the tremendous pressure in the marketplace for companies to 'go green,' and how supply chain operations present a ripe target. Using real-life examples, the speakers will demonstrate how supply chain green initiatives can reap significant cost savings while also helping the environment and providing positive public relations for companies.
January 2008
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Register for the OCH Email Newsletter
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CM features in US auto market study
In the US automotive industry, a single back injury can add as much as $2,000 to the cost of production of a single vehicle. But until recently, there has not been much research into the ways that US automakers could reduce stress, fatigue and injury to US auto workers. How can cranes and hoists help?COHAM (Centre for Occupational Health in Automotive Manufacturing), located at Ohio State University in Columbus has begun to research ways to use material handling equipment to reduce these stresses on workers. There are over 75 auto plants in Ohio and they produced more than 1.5 million cars in 2006.Gene Buer, executive director of Columbus McKinnon, said: "Columbus McKinnon is discussing research contracts with COHAM that will assist with the development of new methods and techniques towards improving the ergonomics for production workers." He added: "Ultimately, these studies and developments will help US automakers increase safety, output, efficiency and profits. Our products such as lift tables from American Lifts, jib cranes from CES, LodeRail, hoists, and rigging products, are all being used as vital parts of this revolutionary programme."With an aging and longstanding workforce, US auto manufacturers are beginning to understand the needs of these particular workers. By helping them avoid injuries, the costs of vehicle production can be kept down and potentially help make American automotive makers more competitive.Largely funded through a partnership with Honda of America, COHAM is a unique interdisciplinary partnership between an assortment of University Departments, various automobile manufacturers, and numerous automobile suppliers with the overall intent to design assembly tasks and processes so that occupational health risk is minimized and productivity and quality are optimised.Uniquely, COHAM is the only university-based full scale manufacturing operation in the world where automobile manufacturers as well as suppliers can test the effects of manufacturing systems on the health of workers. The Ohio State University-based programme is distinctive because it provides a "real world" environment to study and optimise high-tech manufacturing technology along with state-of-the art occupational health risk assessment techniques.
NCCCO awarded ANSI accreditation
The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) has been awarded accreditation by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).All three certification programmes, including Overhead Crane Operator, are now accredited by ANSI to the ISO/IEC 17024 International Standard for organisations that certify personnel.NCCCO president John Kennedy said: "Accreditation by ANSI is a remarkable validation of the vision, determination and dedication of the hundreds of volunteers from across the country who worked tirelessly to establish this national programme of crane operator proficiency and who, over the last ten years, have strived to maintain it."NCCCO commission chairman Kerry Hulse added: "As someone who was involved in the development of the programme from the outset, I can't think of a more appropriate validation of their efforts than for the organisation they helped to create receiving this affirmation from ANSI, the nation's pre-eminent standards-setting body."Among the American National Standards developed under ANSI guidelines are the ASME B30 lifting standards, on which CCO certifications are extensively based
Lodestars lift truss lighting system
CM Lodestar units of 500kg capacity were used to support a Litec QX30S square truss grid system at Audiomotion, "Europe's largest motion capture studio," according to supplier AC Lighting. The truss grid was first used on a UK location shoot for an upcoming film, where it was configured into a multi-level 8x18m grid on six Litec Unitowers. The truss has since been re-configured in the company's studio as a 10x14m grid. AC Lighting is the exclusive UK distributor of Litec trussing and rigging products. Visit the website at www.aclighting.com.
High capacity vacuum from Anver
A high-capacity, custom-built vacuum lifter for handling 48 x 8ft steel plate and non-ferrous materials has been introduced by Anver Corporation of Hudson, Massachusetts.The 30,000lb capacity unit features 12 rectangular suction pads and is powered by a 460 3-phase electric vacuum pump. Anver said the unit "eliminates magnets, grabs and hooks" with an all-welded steel frame, six adjustable cross arms and built-in parking stands. It can handle steel, stainless steel, alloys, and aluminum.Only rubber touches the load surface and standard features include an oil-free electric vacuum pump, vacuum gauges, check valves, reservoir and manifolds, audio/visual safety indicators, and integrated pendant controls. Units are priced from $39,995.
Ikusi set to raise US profile
Following its introduction at Bauma, Munich, Germany, earlier this year, Ikusi's I-syon remote control units will soon be introduced to the North American market.Meanwhile, the firm is renewing its TM70 range to bring it into line with new market requirements. For instance, the new desk incorporates an LCD70 display unit that permits feedback from the receiver and allows alarm signals to be displayed, "so users have more information on movements and therefore greater safety," it added.The TM70 range of remote control units has also passed tests conducted by two major manufacturers of hydraulic machinery and has obtained ATEX approval, according to Ikusi, "which means that these units can be used in areas where the atmosphere is potentially explosive."
Cattron names new sales manager
Cattron Group International has named Marlon Piva as industrial sales manager for Cattron-Theimeg Americas. Piva will be responsible for sales of the company's industrial products throughout Brazil. He will report directly to Laercio Neves, general manager of Cattron-Theimeg Americas. Piva has a degree in mechanical-electrical engineering and previously worked with hydraulic equipment, sales and guaranty services for Bosch Rexroth, a German company in the industrial market.He also worked with automotive automation products for Robert Bosch, also based in Germany."Piva brings sales and technical project experience as well as customer service and problem solving skills to Cattron Group's Brazilian operation," Cattron said.
Tomcat launches flying truss
Tomcat USA has launched its so-called Baxx-Truss, "the world’s only self-stacking, folding truss," it says. Designed for speed by NBA production electrician, Rob Baxter, and developed by Tomcat, the unit has been installed for the LA Lakers' custom court lighting system.The Baxx-Truss "simply unfolds, pins and flies," says Tomcat. Some 40ft of truss rolls from the truck and flies to trim in 10-15 minutes with just two stagehands, it adds.The Lakers' truss sections consist of five 8ft pieces of 30x16in heavy duty, open bottom truss, with a total rolling height of 88in. Due to the spigot ends, the 40ft sections are easily assembled into far-greater-than 40ft lengths, as long as they are in 40ft inline increments.As it unfolds up from a horizontal position (like an accordion), two hands on 8ft ladders simply pin the spigots as it flies vertically. The opposite happens as it flies in and folds on itself. Once deployed vertically, they swing over another motor point hung 40ft away, attaching this to the lower truss end and then lifting this end up, until the truss is horizontal.
CAS names director of HR and safety...
Crane America Services (CAS), a wholly owned subsidiary of Demag Cranes & Components, has named Kristi Cain as director of human resources and safety. Cain's responsibilities include consulting with management on employee relations issues, reviewing and recommending procedures and practices, overseeing training, directing benefit programmes, monitoring safety programmes, and coordinating and monitoring employee recruitment. Cain previously served as a human resource generalist for Amtex, Inc. in Lebanon, Ohio, a supplier of soft automotive interiors to Japanese manufacturers. She also worked in the human resources department at Burke Products, Inc., a government contractor located in Centerville, Ohio. ...and VP marketingCAS has also named Rick Smith as vice president of sales and marketing. Smith will be responsible for managing the company's sales operations, "providing strategies and programmes that deliver higher productivity and cost savings to customers, while increasing Crane America's market share, revenue and margin growth throughout its 31 US locations," CAS said. Smith was previously general manager with a competitive service company, overseeing the sales and service efforts for the company's central region, including marketing, forecasting, budgeting and operations as well as the overall performance of 22 service branches. He also served as district manager for the gulf-state region and as a branch manager. Smith served in the United States Navy for nine years, where he earned the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for Heroism. He also holds a bachelor's degree in business administration.
Steel market declines
The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Steel Committee says steel production in the US is declining following a period of solid gain and import-induced inventory build-up. In the first 10 months of last year, steel producers cut production by 3% from the level prevailing a year earlier to 81.6 million tonnes. Inventory levels are falling to more normal levels.In Mexico, production is increasing rapidly towards a record level of 17 million tonnes in 2007, supported by capacity increases particularly in the long-products segment of the market. The OECD Steel Committee says the global market (in its sixth year of strong output and demand growth) remains strong but growing risks cloud the outlook.The outlook for 2008 is less buoyant amid weaker prospects for global economic growth, according to the Steel Committee meeting in Paris in December 2007.South American steel output is rebounding from last a slowdown. Production in Brazil, the largest producer in the region, was up by 9.2% (by 2.2 million tonnes) to 27.9 million tonnes in the first 10 months of the year. Part of this growth stems from base effects due to a five-month blast furnace outage in the first half of 2006.
Street raises US profile
Street Crane has named Dick Davidson as North American sales manager as the UK-based firm launches a new range of "competitive high technology hoists." Davidson aims to introduce independent regional crane builders to Street's "advanced hoist technology," he said.Davidson has spent his entire professional career in the industrial crane industry. Since graduation from Mississippi State University, with a degree in maths, he has worked for major manufacturers such as Eaton-Yale Hoist, R&M and DeShazo.A past president of the Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA), he is widely known throughout the industry.His appointment is part of a worldwide expansion for Street Crane which is aiming to substantially increase its hoist and component sales business.For the past three years the company has been developing a new generation of hoists. Using 3D modelling techniques, finite element analysis, critical vibration tests and accelerated life testing the company has developed "a family of robust modular based hoists," it said.
Tomcat USA gives away workshop spot
Tomcat USA offered attendees at the 2007 LDI Show the chance to register to win a scholarship to one of its workshops in 2008. Bobbie Duncan of Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, was randomly selected.Duncan has been with the theme park for about two years working as a lighting technician in the 37 venues throughout the Universal Studios property. She was recently promoted to lighting crew chief.Tomcat's 2008 workshops will feature a new and improved curriculum. For the first time, participants will be able to choose their focus, between rigging and truss or chain motors and truss, with beginning and advanced training in that area of focus, all in one workshop. Both of these sessions will be offered from February 20-23 and June 4-7, in Midland, Texas. To register online for these workshops visit www.tomcatworkshops.com.
October 2006
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Hirschmann opens new Americas HQ...
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September 2006
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Tele Radio
The first joystick transmitter that the company has developed itself is on show.
August 2004
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Breaking News 1
OCH provides a unique online voice for the Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) and its key overhead lifting product sections, Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA),Hoist Manufaturers Institute (HMI) and the Monorail Manufacturers Association (MMA)
July 2004
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CAVOTEC AGREES SALE OF GANTREX DIVISIONS
CAVOTEC AGREES SALE OF GANTREX DIVISIONSCavotec MSL has entered into an agreement with the Belgian Gantry Group for the sale of Cavotec Gantrex in Ajax, Ontario, Canada, and all related Gantrex operations in the Americas. Cavotec Gantrex, a centre of excellence within Cavotec MSL which specialises in the design and manufacture of crane runway products, was acquired by Cavotec in November 2002, and generated revenue of $9.7 million in 2006.
