Avid Solutions marks significant growth in green hydrogen and decarbonization
Avid Solutions, selected as the preferred delivery partner for hydrogen solutions by Rockwell Automation, has recorded exceptional revenue growth and expanded its team to meet the rising demand for innovative solutions in low-carbon emissions. Avid Solutions, a Gold Rockwell Automation System Integrator Partner specializing in process expertise and digitally-enabled solutions, today announced significant growth in demand for the company’s decarbonization and green hydrogen (H2) services. Avid Solutions, having been named the preferred delivery partner for hydrogen solutions by Rockwell Automation, has expanded its team by 35 members in the past year to meet the increasing interest for sustainable energy projects. Avid Solutions’ contributions to low-carbon emission initiatives have been marked by a series of achievements. The company was named the preferred green hydrogen delivery partner for Rockwell Automation after supporting decarbonization projects with control system integration, front-end engineering, PlantPAx implementation and standardization of liquefactions systems. Avid Solutions was also a nominee for an innovation award at the Rockwell Automation Partner Network Conference, based on their work in the hydrogen sector. “We are seeing many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), process licensors, and producers entering the green H2 economy. They need expertise to scale, as well as speed to market entry,” said Tom O’Reilly, vice president, of sustainability, at Rockwell Automation. “With more than three decades of expertise in the process industries and helping OEMs scale, Avid Solutions is uniquely suited to help new green H2 clients implement best-in-class technology and ensure their business needs are met.” Rockwell Automation collaborates closely with Avid Solutions to address eco-friendly hydrogen manufacturing initiatives through the delivery of specialized services, including H2 liquefaction and turnkey plant automation using Rockwell Automation PlantPAx. Avid has supported projects across various sectors, including electrolyzer OEMs, H2 liquefaction licensors, and compressor OEMs. Avid engineers are actively involved in several ongoing projects, including an initiative in Texas aimed at delivering 45 tons of green hydrogen per day. These projects have led to record revenue and significant growth in the company’s Texas and Georgia offices, with the Brazilian team doubling in size to meet the needs of clients in the sustainability sector. “This growth and recognition underscore our efforts in shaping a cleaner, greener future,” said Gordon Bordelon, vice president, operations and technology, Avid Solutions. “The emergence of the hydrogen economy opens up exciting avenues in industrial manufacturing, power generation, and mobility. For producers looking to seize these opportunities, it’s important to partner with seasoned experts who can harness advanced technologies and confidently manage risks.” “We are located in one of the seven Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs (H2Hubs) selected through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), and we are actively involved in most of them.” said Avid Solutions Vice President, Sales and Marketing Mike Kiehl. “Avid Solutions continues to deepen relationships with engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firms in the industry and solidify our position as a leader in decarbonization efforts. Our goals are to enable the production of 450 tons of green hydrogen per day by 2025 and 1,000 tons per day by 2030.”
ASSP names 2024 Outstanding Safety Educator
Leslie Rex Stockel, a widely respected educator in the occupational safety and health field and member of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) for 35 years, is the Society’s 2024 William E. Tarrants Outstanding Safety Educator. Stockel, Ph.D., CSP, SMS, is an associate professor of professional practice at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, OK. She also is faculty advisor for the university’s student section of ASSP’s Oklahoma City Chapter, actively recruiting students to pursue degrees in occupational safety and health. Stockel’s teaching philosophy models a professional career environment, holding students to high standards. She uses her vast network to enhance the learning experience through guest lectures and field trips to industrial operations such as power plants, manufacturing facilities and construction sites. As a result, her students develop critical understanding and competencies that are fundamental to a successful safety and health career. Nominated for the ASSP honor by her students, Stockel is an esteemed faculty member with student evaluations rating her above both college and university averages. Students have described her as a passionate instructor who clearly knows the material and is dedicated to making her classes fun and informative. “Dr. Stockel constantly engages with her students and genuinely cares about our ability to understand the topics presented in class,” said Brady Hook, president of ASSP’s student section at the Stillwater campus. “She is a selfless individual who wants her students to succeed, so we know we can always go to her for guidance.” After a lengthy and successful career in industry, Stockel joined the university faculty in 2016 in the Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology program. She has made significant contributions to its continued growth and development while keeping her courses aligned with industry trends. She guides efforts to plan and execute career events where prospective employers meet with students about summer internships and permanent employment. She also encourages students to collaborate on campus and community service projects. “Her dedication to enhancing academic growth, mentoring students, and championing professional development has been truly invaluable,” said Chulho Yang, Ph.D., P.E., professor and interim head of the university’s Division of Engineering Technology. “Her instructional caliber is underscored by consistently earning impressive course evaluations. She is widely recognized as an outstanding instructor.” Stockel is a presenter at local, regional, and national safety education conferences. Several of her articles have appeared in peer-reviewed publications such as ASSP’s Professional Safety Journal. She was a co-project initiator when the U.S. Department of Labor selected Oklahoma State as an authorized OSHA Education Center in 2017. “Dr. Stockel is an asset to our program and the students she teaches,” said Dr. Virginia Charter, Ph.D., P.E., coordinator of the university’s Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology program. “She has made great contributions to the success of our students and their future safety careers.” Stockel will be honored at ASSP’s Safety 2024 Professional Development Conference and Exposition, held Aug. 7-9 in Denver. The global event will bring together thousands of safety professionals to learn about best practices, industry trends, and the latest product innovations in the workplace safety and health field. Each year, ASSP honors a member who demonstrates outstanding achievement in occupational safety and health education. These top instructors help students reach their full potential and become results-producing safety professionals. ASSP’s Outstanding Safety Educator Award is named after William E. Tarrants, a pioneer in safety education who was an ASSP Fellow and president (1977-78).
Atlantic Forklift Services recognized as top Bobcat Company material handling dealer
Awards given to top-performing material handling equipment dealers Atlantic Forklift Services was recently recognized for superior performance as a Bobcat Company top material handling dealer. The top dealers were recognized based on sales, volume, and other dealer engagement metrics. “We are pleased to recognize such a deserving group of dealerships for their efforts and achievements,” said Jarrod Steck, Bobcat vice president of material handling products. “While forklifts are a new product offering within the Bobcat portfolio, these dealerships bring years of expertise and experience within the material handling industry, and we are thrilled to award these top performers and valued dealer partners.” In recognition of this award Keith Driscoll, President of Atlantic Forklift Services, said, “As we reflect on our journey, I want to express my deepest gratitude to our team of dedicated professionals who work every day to be noticeably best. Their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts have been the cornerstone of our success. Additionally, I would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to our valued customers. Their trust and loyalty are the driving force behind everything we do. Thank you for choosing us, for believing in our vision, and for being an integral part of our journey. We are truly honored to serve you. Finally, I would also like to thank Bobcat material handling for recognizing our successes over this past year. We look forward to our continued partnership.”
Former Yale employee honored with lifetime achievement award by supply chain industry publication
Yale Lift Truck Technologies has announced that Jay Costello, who formerly served as director of dealer marketing, has received a lifetime achievement award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive. Costello retired in late 2023 after more than 50 years with Yale – approximately half of the brand’s 100-plus years in business. His time with the organization included 36 years as the brand’s vice president of marketing, followed by positions as director of training and director of dealer marketing. During his long tenure, the brand underwent several significant transformations and throughout, Costello helped to shape the culture of the organization, unify global marketing and maintain strong relations with the dealer network. When the brand transitioned from a division of Eaton Corporation to Yale Materials Handling Corporation and later to Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Costello played a pivotal role in forming and supporting the Yale identity. Costello applied this knowledge and experience to support the continued evolution as the brand unveiled its new identity and positioning at ProMat in 2023. Other notable accomplishments throughout his career include: Creating the company’s global product development process, which ultimately led to global marketing and product launches aligned across regions Securing the business of one of the organization’s largest and longest-tenured customers, a major hardware retailer Helping to plan and manage the company’s Experience Center facility, where customers, dealers and employees can access educational resources to improve lift truck utilization and advance training and innovation Costello has spent much of his career focused on mentoring young professionals who will continue to shape the company and the wider materials-handling industry. Helping others succeed in their careers has been such a passion and source of joy that Costello hopes to continue serving as a mentor even in retirement. “Jay was a leader at Yale long before I walked through these doors, and his mentorship has ensured that his legacy will be a lasting one,” said Brad Long, Brand Manager, Yale Lift Truck Technologies. “This recognition is a testament to the impact he has left not only on our brand, but on our industry as a whole, and more importantly, on the people working in it.”
Shibaura Machine announced new SCARA features at Automate 2024
Shibaura Machine will display THE SCARA range and showcase its robots in action Shibaura Machine will be exhibiting at Automate 2024 alongside TM Robotics. Shibaura Machine will showcase THE SCARA range of industrial robots, powered by TM Robotics, at booth 661 at the show and unveil new features to enhance its product offerings. Organized by the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), Automate offers industry professionals the chance to see first-hand the latest innovations and advancements in automation. Attendees can expect to see over 800 exhibitors from a huge range of sectors and will have the opportunity to attend various networking and education events throughout the show. Shibaura Machine will be displaying its full range of THE SCARA robots, along with a selection of its Cartesian and six-axis robots. Visitors will be able to see the two newest models in THE range, the THE800 and THE1000, in action at the show at its booth managed by TM Robotics. The THE800 is designed to excel in assembly and inspection processes where precision and payload capacity are crucial factors. With a maximum payload of 20 kg and improved accuracy and precision, the THE800 offers high-speed operation with a maximum cycle time of 0.41 seconds. The THE1000 has an impressive reach of one meter, making it ideal for assembly and inspection processes requiring larger components. It also has a maximum payload of 20 kg and high-speed operation with a maximum cycle time of 0.44 seconds. The THE100 will be working at full speed and handling its maximum payload at the show, highlighting its potential in industrial applications. Not only will Shibaura Machine be demonstrating its THE range in a display powered by partner TM Robotics, the company will also be unveiling a new suite of optional extras that end-users will be able to add to their robotic solutions later this year. This includes ceiling mounting, IP65 ingress protection allowing them to become part of the manufacturing process in food and pharmaceutical production lines, and clean room options. This significantly enhances the versatility of the THE range and broadens the spectrum of potential applications for these robots. Shibaura Machine will also be displaying a THE400 SCARA and a TVL700 six-axis robot working collaboratively with a SICK vision system for handling and inspection applications, demonstrating how harnessing the synergy between robots and advanced systems can help to optimize industrial operations. “Our robots are engineered to meet the demands of modern manufacturing and automation processes, delivering precision, speed, and reliability, said Nigel Smith, CEO of TM Robotics. “Our demonstrations at Automate 2024 in collaboration with Shibaura Machine will showcase how industrial robots can drive efficiency and productivity in a huge range of production applications. The new range of optional extras for the THE models will also offer our users an even wider scope for incorporating robotics into their operations — ultimately saving time, cutting costs and building smarter production lines.”
Genuine Parts Company announces officer promotion
Genuine Parts Company has announced its board of directors has appointed James F. Howe to the position of President, Motion, the company’s industrial business, effective April 1, 2024. With nearly three decades of dedicated service to the company, Howe brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. Most recently, Howe served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial and Technology Officer, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the corporate trajectory of Motion. His leadership in overseeing eCommerce, strategic pricing, sales excellence, corporate accounts, and human resources has been instrumental in driving the company’s success. In his new capacity, Mr. Howe will continue to report to Randy Breaux, Group President, GPC North America. “James has an impressive history, having served in numerous executive roles during his long career at Motion,” said Paul Donahue, Chairman and CEO. “His extensive experience makes him an excellent choice to lead Motion. We feel confident that under James’s leadership, our talented and experienced Motion team will continue to achieve great results.”
Episode 475: The Pivotal Role of Barcodes in Supply Chain Management with GS1
Barcodes are often underrated and underappreciated, but they play a pivotal role in product safety, efficiency, and movement within the global supply chain. In this episode of The New Warehouse Podcast, Reid Jackson, Vice President of Business Development at GS1 US, gives us the rundown on UPC barcodes and their role as passports for products in the supply chain. GS1 is renowned for setting the global standard in the supply chain, famously known for introducing the UPC barcode, an innovation that revolutionized retail and beyond. This episode delves into the foundational role of GS1 in standardization, its evolution alongside technology, and the future of supply chains. GS1 and the UPC Barcode The inception of GS1 is a story of necessity and innovation. Reid Jackson recounts, “We need the brands to have some type of identifier on them to speed up the checkout and to increase the accuracy.” This need led to creating the UPC barcode, marking a pivotal moment in retail and manufacturing. The initiative stemmed from the grocery industry’s demand for efficiency and accuracy at the checkout. GS1’s role extended beyond the barcode, emphasizing its technology-agnostic approach to solving industry-wide challenges. Leveraging Barcodes in Supply Chain Management The application of UPC codes and GS1 standards illustrates the vast impact on industries, exemplified by Reid’s Subway story. “Subway… would take product lettuce, tomato, meat, spreads, everything… take it into their inventory from tons of different suppliers, but they would inventory it all the same. When it came in, it was lettuce.” If there were ever a recall, they would have to return everything. “Now they’ve moved to GS1 standards,” Reid adds, allowing them to only send back impacted products in the case of a recall. This anecdote underscores the efficiency and safety GS1’s standards introduce to supply chain management, highlighting how specific product tracking can mitigate extensive product recall, ensure consumer safety, and reduce waste. Advancing Technology with GS1 Standards GS1’s engagement with emerging technologies signifies its continuous evolution. “We’re heavily involved with MIT and the Auburn RFID lab and constantly looking at these technologies and how they’re being implemented and used,” Reid shares. This forward-looking approach ensures GS1 standards remain relevant amidst advancements in warehousing, material handling, robotics, and beyond. GS1’s collaboration with technology institutions and industries fosters innovation while maintaining the utility and integrity of supply chain standards. Key Takeaways on Barcodes in Supply Chain Management GS1 pioneered the UPC barcode, significantly enhancing retail and supply chain efficiency. Applying GS1 standards exemplifies the profound impact on product safety and recall management. GS1’s proactive involvement with technology and research institutions ensures its standards evolve with emerging supply chain innovations. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 475: The Pivotal Role of Barcodes in Supply Chain Management with GS1
Synergy Logistics listed in the Top 100 IT Providers by Inbound Logistics for the ninth consecutive year
The committee selected the Top 100 Logistics IT Providers based on those offering the innovations their customers need to streamline supply chain operations. Synergy’s Tier 1 warehouse management system (WMS), SnapFulfil, and multi-agent orchestration software, SnapControl, were considered essential solutions in an era of fast-paced warehouse automation and robotics functionality. The recognition for SnapFulfil and SnapControl has been well received by the innovative company as it underpins how its leading-edge warehouse technology continues to evolve and remain relevant to the Inbound Logistics audience of top manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Synergy’s Chief Commercial Officer, Brian Kirst, said: “It’s no coincidence that Synergy has been recognized for nine consecutive years as a top 100 logistics IT provider. In a fast-paced world, we continue to invest in R&D and adapt our software to meet the ever-changing demands of our global customer base as well as introduce new products. “SnapControl is our latest solution, which is taking off as it tackles the need for seamless control of robotics and automation in the warehouse. It acts as a conductor of warehouse orchestration, otherwise known as multi-agent orchestration (MAO). Being vendor agnostic, it prioritizes work, allocates tasks and workflows, and ultimately enables companies to automate their operations on a much shorter timeline. But the real added value is the complete data picture it brings, which can facilitate tangible labor savings, accurate asset management decisions, and rapid time to value.”
PTDA Foundation welcoming nominations for 2024 Leadership Awards
Wendy B. McDonald Woman of the Year Award and Robert K. Callahan Advancing Leaders Award nominations open through June 8 The PTDA Foundation is seeking nominations for its Wendy B. McDonald Woman of the Year Award and Robert K. Callahan Advancing Leaders Award. The Wendy B. McDonald Woman of the Year Award celebrates a woman who, regardless of her career stage, has made significant contributions to her company and the PT/MC industry in 2023. The award is presented annually, when merited. Nominations will be accepted through June 8, 2024. The Robert (Bob) K. Callahan Advancing Leaders Award acknowledges the dedication and ambition of young individuals committed to advancing within the PT/MC industry. Nominations are due by June 8, 2024. Both awards will be presented at the PTDA 2024 Industry Summit at The Broadmoor in Colorado Spring, Colo. in October.
Why a strong brand isn’t a luxury but a necessity
Who invented the light bulb? Of course, you’d say Thomas Edison. But what you may not realize is that Edison did not invent the light bulb. It was actually invented by Joseph Wilson Swan and Henry Woodward. What Edison did really well was commercialize the invention. But why do we always think of Thomas Edison first? Of course, he was a prolific inventor, but more importantly, he built a recognizable and resonating brand. Edison branded everything he did with his name, face, and signature. He built a massive publicity machine behind him. He forged close personal relationships with journalists who could be trusted to write adoring (but not always strictly accurate) copy. He was a relentless self-promoter. He used multiple public demonstrations to highlight and promote his technologies. Edison didn’t just do a lot of marketing but rather build a brand he could leverage. For example, his main laboratory, Menlo Park, was famous for generating more than 400 patents in just six years. But Edison worked with a team of 14 or so engineers, machinists, and physicists who were rarely if not at all mentioned, building and amplifying the narrative of Edison as a “sole inventor”. Only those inventors who left the lab and branched out on their own (i.e., Nikola Tesla) had a chance to gain broader recognition. Edison, while positioning himself this way, spent over half his time dealing with clients and investors, and speaking to the press. Edison also knew what stories and sound bites would resonate with the public. He’s well known for saying, “I have not failed 10,000 times—I’ve successfully found 10,000 ways that will not work.” But actually, he failed 2,774 times according to his records. We all know the 10,000 times quote, and there’s no question it wouldn’t be the same if he had said 2,774. The bottom line here is that while we want to believe that an amazing invention or innovative solution will sell itself, it’s far from the case. Building a brand and identity intentionally, and shaping a narrative provides you the best opportunity to succeed. This doesn’t mean simply promoting your product or your company but creating a brand around it that’s engaging, unique, interesting, and different. How crucial, after all, is the brand of Steve Jobs to the image of Apple? Or of Larry Page and Sergey Brin to our perception of Google? Even though many companies today are cutting back on branding and marketing investments, it’s funny how the companies we admire, were not built simply by new products but achieved their level of success through investing and architecting a great brand. Edison knew this – even 100 years ago. Andrea Belk Olson is a keynote speaker, author, differentiation strategist, behavioral scientist, and customer-centricity expert. As the CEO of Pragmadik, she helps organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to Fortune 500, and has served as an outside consultant for EY and McKinsey. Andrea is the author of three books, including her most recent, What To Ask: How To Learn What Customers Need but Don’t Tell You. She is a 4-time ADDY® award winner and host of the popular Customer Mission podcast. Her thoughts have been continually featured in news sources such as Chief Executive Magazine, Entrepreneur Magazine, Harvard Business Review, Rotman Magazine, World Economic Forum, and more. Andrea is a sought-after speaker at conferences and corporate events throughout the world. She is a visiting lecturer and startup coach at the University of Iowa, a TEDx presenter, and TEDx speaker coach. She is also an instructor at the University of Iowa Venture School. More information is also available on www.pragmadik.com and www.andreabelkolson.com.
Dorner to showcase innovative automation technologies at Automate 2024
Dorner and its partner company montratec are set to unveil its latest innovations in assembly technology in booth 1224 at Automate 2024, May 6-9, at McCormick Place in Chicago. With a focus on enhancing efficiency and reliability in production environments, both Dorner and montratec will present a lineup of demo conveyors designed to meet the diverse needs of various industries. The newly released DualMove Pallet System will lead off Dorner’s collection. The DualMove features twin-strand timing belts that glide pallets precisely from one stop to the next. It also features three accessory modules: lift and transfer, lift and rotate, and lift and locate. DualMove’s reliability, flexibility, and easy integration make it a great fit for numerous assembly applications. Among the featured conveyors is the ERT150, an industry-ready solution engineered to convey medical and cleanroom-based product assembly. Boasting a versatile, low back-pressure platform, the ERT150 offers seamless and adaptable performance for various appliance, electronics, automotive, and consumer goods assembly applications. Its simple and effective design, including non-contact zoning and slip roller accumulation capability, ensures safe and efficient operation while minimizing downtime. With ISO Class 4 verification for cleanroom applications, the ERT150 sets a new standard for precision and reliability. Also on display will be Dorner’s FlexMove Pallet System, a versatile conveyor engineered for product routing, control, and inspection in small- to medium-size assembly automation applications. The FlexMove line is sold as completed assemblies or as kits. It offers users layout flexibility and the ability to implement easy conveyor system design changes to adapt to their business’s evolving needs. Modules include merge and divert modules, lift and locate stations, cushioned pallet stops, and a unique pin tracking system to guide pallets through 90° turns – all of which attach directly to the conveyor frame without modifications. Columbus McKinnon’s newest acquisition, montratec, will feature their montrac mono-rail solution at our booth. montratec’s intralogistics solutions for manufacturing, assembly, and production processes minimize cycle times and maximize customer operational throughput. Asynchronous movement enables products to be moved independently in multiple directions at varying speeds to balance production lines, increasing flexibility and productivity. montratec also brings a higher level of cleanroom certification that expands market access in the EV, life sciences, electronics, and semiconductor industries. Lastly, Dorner will feature its renowned 2200 industrial series conveyor solution. The 2200 series loop showcases the uniquely low-profile industrial line of conveyors and their ability to seamlessly transfer products from one conveyor to the next.
Haver & Boecker Niagara offers Rhino Hyde Liners
Haver & Boecker Niagara presented Rhino Hyde liners to enhance the wear life of a full range of equipment. The company’s custom-blend liners are strategically formulated and installed on key wear, material handling and impact areas of chutes, hoppers, vibrating screens and more. Rhino Hyde, constructed from thermoset polyurethane, boasts superior abrasion resistance, durability and chemical resistance compared to alternatives like thermoplastic polyurethane, rubber, or metal. “Haver & Boecker Niagara consistently seeks innovative solutions that elevate our customers’ operations,” said Karen Thompson, president of Haver & Boecker Niagara’s North American and Australian operations. “Offering Rhino Hyde liners underscores our commitment to delivering products and services that go well beyond the ordinary or expected. They aren’t just off-the-shelf products; they’re meticulously tailored solutions developed through collaboration with our partners and customers. It’s this dedication to personalized excellence that sets us apart.” Rhino Hyde liners are formulated and proven to outperform rubber, plastics, and even metals in rough weather. Producers can enjoy more durability with reduced wear in high-abrasion or high-impact areas. Additionally, Rhino Hyde liners offer a simple fix to seal worn spots. Polyurethane liners are a cost-effective solution and have the unique characteristic of being higher wear but are also a lighter-weight product with reduced maintenance and replacement costs. Rhino Hyde liners are designed for applications such as screening, material handling and hauling. They can be fully customized to the required size and are available in multiple different styles and attachment systems including the classic Rhino Hyde Blue, magnetic, urethane-backed ceramic, polyurethane blades, belt skirting and weldable liners. The original Rhino Hyde Blue liners boast high abrasion and impact resistance, along with reduced noise and vibration. Additionally, they won’t expand or contract in environments with fluctuating temperatures. Rhino Hyde Blue liners can be custom-made with several different backings, including solid steel, plain, expanded metal, fabric, and ceramic chip embedded. Magnetic Liners Magnetic liners are strong, durable liners featuring rare-earth magnets that easily fasten to steel without welding or bolting. Users can simply place the liner and remove as needed, saving both time and labor. They reduce material sticking, lessen noise and provide superior protection in even the most demanding applications. Magnets stay secure regardless of climate and withstand high levels of vibration and impact. Urethane-Backed Ceramic Liners Urethane-backed ceramic liners are the ultimate solution in applications where severe abrasion is an issue. The highly abrasion-resistant panels have replaced plain or weldable ceramic tile for decades in aggregate, coal, fly ash, glass, grain, gravel, cement and other industries. Urethane- backed panels require no fabrication, cutting or machining to install, and their durability and ease of installation reduces downtime, labor costs and waste. They combine the cut and abrasion resistance of ceramic, and the impact resistance and resiliency of Rhino Hyde polyurethane. Polyurethane Blade System Made with genuine Rhino Hyde polyurethane, Blade Systems provide thorough and even belt cleaning in both wet and dry conditions with exceptional resistance to cuts and tears. Rhino Hyde developed the Rhino Blade Tensioning System for excellent, cost-effective belt cleaning. The system has fewer moving parts than others in the industry, increasing reliability and offering a virtually maintenance-free experience. Furthermore, Rhino Hyde Blade Systems are compact in nature with minimal required space for installation. Complete Blade Systems can be installed in less than 30 minutes, and the Rhino Blade can be replaced in under 10 minutes by workers of all experience levels. Weldable liners Standard Rhino Hyde weld-in liners are easily installed with tack welding and have weld plates every 15-20 centimeters (about 6-8 inches) to ensure stability and rigidity. Rhino Armor weldable liners feature backing made entirely of perforated steel plate. These liners excel in heavy-duty applications, particularly those with heavy load drops.
H2C’s warehouse-in-the-sky is the first to pinpoint drone delivery
H2 Clipper, Inc. (“H2C”), an aerospace and alternative energy company developing uniquely capable hydrogen-powered dirigibles, has announced that it was granted a new U.S. patent for its warehouse-in-the-sky that includes the integration of aerial drones for picking up, transporting, and delivering packaged goods and other payloads. The technology incorporates: the use of a beacon, which can be a dedicated device or one’s cell phone, that enables package delivery by drone for companies like Amazon/FedEx/UPS/DHL etc., particularly in remote locations. Uniquely, the beacon also permits package returns from rural areas and remote global villages to put those items into international commerce; the ability to launch drones from a dirigible, allowing the drones to use all on-board energy to lift heavier packages rather than using that same energy to fly to the drop-off or pickup zone, resulting in efficient use of every route; charging bays for the aerial drones to recharge between short flights, which further reduces package delivery and retrieval time and trips; an on-board camera with each drone which provides proof of delivery, and is particularly important when using drone delivery in rural areas. With this patented technology, H2C’s warehouse-in-the-sky is the only airship technology that allows for pinpoint pick-up and delivery accuracy for commercial, consumer, and humanitarian use. “With the continued increase in online purchasing, the speed, convenience, and cost of local delivery are essential considerations for the supply chain,” said H2C Founder and CEO Rinaldo S. Brutoco. “By utilizing airships for delivery, shipments can bypass the exceedingly crowded and inefficient port facilities and airports, and eliminate the need for multiple intermodal transfers, handling steps, and ground-based facilities—minimizing delays and reducing costs.” US Patent 11,820,482 B2, entitled “Method and Apparatus for Lighter-Than-Air Airship with Improved Structure and Delivery System,” was issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and focuses on enhancements over previous airship designs and operating modes. Methods such as those described in H2C’s latest patent are focused on improving the “last mile” of delivery. The enhanced aerodynamic characteristics of the improved airship will enable it to travel at significant speeds, making door-to-door overnight delivery from a few regional warehouses and second-day door-to-door delivery of goods a possibility across the world. This ability to rapidly serve end-users directly from the factory or a few large regional distribution centers will resolve the last-mile challenges and provide a strong competitive advantage. The improvements represent a continuation of the work that H2C began in 2008 when it filed for its initial patent, which was issued in 2012. This news follows H2C’s January 2024 announcement that it was awarded a foundational robotics patent for using advanced “swarm robotics,” which achieves radical reductions of cost and quantum advances in manufacturing techniques for a wide variety of applications—including large scale lighter than air airships. H2C is represented in intellectual property matters by John C. Serio, a Partner in the Boston Intellectual Property and Technology Group at Withers Worldwide.
GRI expands product portfolio with 23 new SKUs in agriculture and construction tires
GRI has announced an expansion of its product portfolio with the addition of 23 new SKUs across its agriculture and construction tire segments. This strategic move underscores GRI’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its customers worldwide, as well as its dedication to innovation and excellence in tire manufacturing. The newly introduced SKUs encompass better load and speed indexes in the existing sizes to carry more weight with safety. These SKUs offer better options to the customers to choose the best fit for their machines. The expanded product portfolio includes tires designed for agricultural machinery such as tractors, implements, and sprayers, as well as tires tailored for construction equipment such as telehandlers, graders, and light trucks. Each SKU has been meticulously developed and tested to ensure optimal performance, durability, and reliability in demanding operating conditions. “We are excited to introduce these new additions to our product lineup, which reflect our ongoing efforts to provide comprehensive solutions to our customers,” said Dr. Mahesha Ranasoma, CEO of GRI. “With these new SKUs, we aim to further enhance our offerings and address the diverse needs of our global clientele.” The introduction of these 23 new SKUs further solidifies GRI’s position as a leader in the global specialty tire industry. With a focus on customer satisfaction, technological advancement, and sustainability, GRI continues to drive progress and deliver value to its customers worldwide.
Advanced Illumination introduces Light Hub for Zebra Smart Cameras
Advanced Illumination, the originator of LED lighting for machine vision, has announced the release of a new class of LED lighting controllers, aimed at revolutionizing machine vision system building through the simplification of camera, light, and I/O accessory interconnectivity. This machine vision solution cuts down on cost and setup time by operating as the connection “hub” between essential machine vision components. Starting with a variant that connects to Zebra’s popular line of Iris GTX Smart Cameras (previously part of Matrox Imaging), Advanced Illumination has developed the Light Hub for Zebra Iris GTX Smart Cameras. Also known as the HCS-150-ZEB (ZEB for Zebra), this Light Hub is capable of directly powering its connected Zebra camera while providing essential I/O functionality like triggering and analog dimming control between the connected light head, the Zebra camera, and any connected I/O accessories. Because this SignaTechTM-enabled controller can supply 4 amps of continuous output and up to 10 amps of overdrive strobe, users don’t need to compromise their machine vision lighting. With the HCS-150-ZEB, users can choose from hundreds of thousands of Advanced Illumination lighting configurations for unparalleled flexibility. The Light Hub is compatible with any new or existing C1 connection configured light heads. Whether users are looking to connect to a small, collimated backlight, or overdrive strobe a large, high-intensity bar light from their Zebra smart camera, the HCS-150-ZEB does so seamlessly. The HCS-150-ZEB is built for the rigors of industrial environments. Its IP67-rated enclosure ensures protection from dust and water ingress. The controller offers multiple mounting options, including a DIN rail clip for easy integration into controller cabinets, and M4 mounting channels for secure, custom positioning.
Saino doors marks 125 Years in the industrial door market
Saino Doors, a member of the Senneca family of brands, has announced to commemorate 125 years of unwavering dedication and passion in the industrial door industry. Since 1899, Saino has been at the forefront, setting the standard for unparalleled quality and reliability with its sliding fire and service door systems across various industries. As part of the Chase Doors brand, Saino offers a comprehensive line of door systems designed for a wide range of applications, including warehouses, distribution centers, industrial environments, processing plants, manufacturing facilities, parking garages, convention facilities, and pharmaceutical facilities. As Saino marks this significant milestone, they extend heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support and trust in Saino door systems. The company’s dedication to providing innovative solutions tailored to meet their customer’s specific needs and surpass expectations remains unwavering. “Saino: Opening Doors to Possibilities for 125 Years and Counting. With a legacy built on great people, loyal customers, and exceptional products, we continue to thrive and grow,” Rick Paterni, Vice President of product and Marketing shared. “We expect the trend of satisfied customers to continue for decades to come, as we remain committed to excellence in every aspect of our business.” With a steadfast commitment to exceptional customer service and advanced manufacturing capabilities, Saino has earned a well-deserved reputation for delivering high-quality products. The company appreciates the partnerships formed over the years and eagerly anticipates another 125 years of success together.
Synergy North America Inc. has partnered with supply chain BEST to expand their WMS implementation
Working together as preferred channel partners, rapidly expanding Synergy will leverage access to Florida-based Supply Chain BEST’s end-to-end system implementation and project management expertise. This partnership is the latest in a fast-growing ecosystem of partners, vendors, and integrations for SnapFulfil, and builds upon Supply Chain BEST resources in the US, Canada, UK, and Hong Kong. Supply Chain BEST President, Joe Huss, said: “I am delighted to be partnering with Synergy and am excited by the prospect of working together as we share a mission to deliver the very best in customer supply chain solutions. Having worked with various WMS solutions over the years, SnapFulfil stands out in terms of its technologically advanced rules engine, flexibility, and configurability. The build process is configured as part of the solution, so there is minimal additional development and coding for each deployment, which historically adds to complexity and cost. “SnapFulfil is so customizable we can also instruct our customers to self-configure the WMS and help them understand how the system can get them to the next operational level, which is a real point of difference for those needing to flex and adapt to ever-changing market demands.” At 40+ companies strong, Synergy’s partnership network covers a broad spectrum of integration categories, such as ERP, iPaaS, Marketplace, Robotics, Shipping, and other channel partners. Synergy Logistics Chief Commercial Officer, Brian Kirst, added: “It’s a mutually beneficial partnership, with the Supply Chain BEST team a great fit to match our domain expertise. They share the same comprehensive yet flexible approach to implementation, as well as an ethos that integrated software solutions should be about rapid time-to-value and strong return on investment. As business opportunities increase for both companies, we can scale and grow together and secure and develop more of the right kind of business.”
Hamilton expands Nylast® wheel line to accommodate heavy-duty industries
Hamilton Caster, manufacturer of heavy-duty industrial casters, wheels, carts, and trailers, has announced the expansion of its Nylast® wheel line to include sizes up to 24 inches in diameter, tripling its current load capacity of the series. This expansion not only broadens the scope of its offerings but also allows for the enhancement of several caster series for heavy manufacturing industries. Hamilton Nylast® wheels, crafted from solid-cast high-performance nylon, have long been synonymous with durability and resilience. Unlike conventional injection-molded nylon wheels, Nylast® boasts superior impact strength, making it the top choice for industries requiring robust performance under demanding conditions. Hamilton’s Nylast® material is meticulously formulated with finely divided particles of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), enhancing load-bearing capability while preserving the impact resistance inherent to nylon. Every aspect of Nylast® wheels, from the face to the bore, undergoes CNC machining to strict tolerances, ensuring consistency and quality in every product. With the introduction of larger Nylast® wheel diameters, Hamilton is even more poised to cater to the evolving needs of heavy manufacturing industries such as aerospace and defense, ship and bridge building, and construction. The larger Nylast® wheel sizes enable Hamilton’s Super Duty and Extreme Duty Caster series to handle heavier loads, provide enhanced versatility, and perform in demanding industrial environments. “This expansion allows us to provide our customers with more solutions to tackle even the most demanding tasks with confidence,” said Jodi Fritsch, director of marketing. “We are committed to continuously innovating and improving our product offerings to meet the evolving needs of our customers.” Nylast® wheels are more desirable in specific applications over forged steel and polyurethane due to their ability to withstand a higher load capacity without damaging floors. Because Nylast® wheels are much lighter in weight than forged steel or polyurethane, the overall PSI on the contact area of the floor is significantly less. Nylast® also has a higher degree of chemical and moisture resistance. Chemical resistance of wheel materials depends upon many variables including the manner and length of exposure, temperature, and chemical concentration. Check out the Nylast® Chemical Resistance Chart to learn the chemicals that play nice with Nylast®. Nylast® wheels have very low rolling resistance while moving heavy loads. This feature enhances energy efficiency and minimizes friction, which in turn can extend equipment lifespan and improve overall performance. Low rolling resistance not only saves energy and ensures smoother workflows, but it can also contribute to a more sustainable and cost-effective operation. Last year, Hamilton introduced its new U-Grooved Industrial Track Wheels, offering Nylast® as a wheel option due to its ability to withstand chemicals and moisture. Nylast® U-Grooved Wheels provide a great alternative for customers in industrial environments where crane cables, pulleys, rolling gates, and doors are prevalent, and sanitary and wash-down conditions are imperative.
March 2024 Logistics Manager’s Index Report® LMI® at 58.3
Growth is INCREASING AT AN INCREASING RATE for inventory levels, inventory costs, warehousing prices, and transportation utilization. Growth is INCREASING AT A DECREASING RATE for warehousing utilization, transportation capacity, and transportation prices. Warehousing capacity is CONTRACTING The Logistics Manager’s Index reads in at 58.3 in March 2024. This is up (+1.8) from February’s reading of 56.5. This is the fastest rate of expansion in the overall index since the reading of 61.2 from 18 months ago in September of 2022. The logistics industry is at a healthier place than it was then however. That reading from 18 months ago was largely inflated by unwanted inventories and high Warehousing Costs along with an anemic freight market. March of 2024 is a different story as we are seeing long-planned inventory expansions, along with more efficient levels of utilization in both warehousing and transportation as the drivers of growth. The level of 58.3 is within half a standard deviation from the all-time average of 62.2, suggesting that the overall logistics industry is now at the low end of what we would consider healthy and normal growth. Other signs of this health are that the growth has been consistent for Upstream (57.9) and Downstream (60.8), and also smaller (59.1) and larger (58.1) firms. The change this month was primarily driven by a continued rebuilding of Inventory Levels (+5.3) which at 63.8 are at their highest level since October 2022. This growth has had cascading effects on tightening Warehousing Capacity (-8.2) which is back into contraction territory for the first time since January 2023. These changes suggest that firms are building up inventories in anticipation of continued consumer spending and suggests that the economy will continue to grow in the near-term. Transportation Capacity is down (-1.3), but at 59.6 is still higher than Transportation Prices (53.0), meaning that we are not yet ready to call an end to the freight recession. Although it is much less severe than it was six months or a year ago. Researchers at Arizona State University, Colorado State University, Florida Atlantic University, Rutgers University, and the University of Nevada, Reno, and in conjunction with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) issued this report today. Results Overview The LMI score is a combination of eight unique components that make up the logistics industry, including: inventory levels and costs, warehousing capacity, utilization, and prices, and transportation capacity, utilization, and prices. The LMI is calculated using a diffusion index, in which any reading above 50.0 indicates that logistics is expanding; a reading below 50.0 is indicative of a shrinking logistics industry. The latest results of the LMI summarize the responses of supply chain professionals collected in March 2024. The LMI read in at 58.3 in March, up (+1.8) February’s reading of 56.5. This is the seventh time in the last eight months that the LMI has shown expansion. This growth is driven by the buildup of inventories, the subsequent tightening of warehousing, and the ongoing slow yet steady recovery in transportation. The overall index is now at the low end of healthy levels of growth, closing in on the all-time average of 62.2 and is pointing towards steady economic growth in the near term. The broader optimism of our respondents is reflected in the University of Michigan’s Index of Consumer Sentiment which is up (+3.3%) to 79.4 in March and is 28.1% higher than a year ago. Consumers are confident about both the current state of the economy, and that inflation will continue to slow down[1]. Wall Street seems to be confident as well as the S&P 500 ended the first quarter up 10%. With growth coming from all 11 sectors of the index, this is the best opening to a year for the index since 2019. Historically, first quarters this strong have portended strong growth through the rest of the year[2]. It will be interesting to see if this momentum holds through the rest of 2024. Underlying this is continued job growth and slowing inflation. The U.S. added 275,000 jobs in February on the back of 229,000 jobs added in January. On the flip side, with more people entering the labor force the unemployment rate is up to 3.9%, which is higher bust still historically low as the U.S. has now seen unemployment under 4% for 25 consecutive months[3]. Evidence that the uptick in the unemployment rate is due more to a growing labor force than to job losses can be seen in jobless claims dipping down to only 210,000 new claims in the last week of March[4]. This is a continuation of the end of 2024 as U.S. economic growth in Q4 2023 was revised up from 3.2 to 2.4%. The Atlanta Federal Reserve estimates that it is growing at a rate of 2.1% in Q1 2024, but at this point that is still a speculative number[5]. As for inflation, many analysts are predicting that interest rates will need to come down by June or July for the Fed to meet its forecast of three rate cuts in 2024. Citi expects hiring to slow in Q2, which would leave an opening for the Fed to begin cooling rates [6]. As is often the case, inventories are the straw that stirs the drink in the logistics industry. Inventory Levels were up (+5.3) to 63.8 in March, which is their highest level since October of 2022 when firms were desperate to slash inventories. Since this time, Inventory Levels have largely registered in the 50’s and 40’s, including contracting in seven of eight months from May to December of 2023. They have been increasing steadily since then and moving back into the mid-60’s in March suggests that many firms are now back to business as normal. This normalcy has returned in part due to continued consumer activity. Consumer spending was up 0.6% in February as U.S. consumers continue to spend past analyst expectations of post-covid “revenge spending”. While a significant chunk of this spending is on services such as flights and meals,
Versatile and easy to use in-house sign and label print system
DuraLabel has announced the immediate availability of its new Kodiak Max, industrial sign and label print systems. Kodiak Max allows companies to bring multi-color, industrial-strength sign and label production in-house. Users can instantly create messaging to their exact specifications; alter or append messages at a moment’s notice; create permanent safety signs or temporary/seasonal signage; and save time and money versus outsourcing. All Kodiak Max Print Systems come with LabelForge PRO design software pre-installed. This easy-to-use tool has thousands of pre-made sign templates and symbols that can be printed as-is or customized as needed. Users can even design their own signs from scratch. LabelForge PRO supports 14 languages and multiple keyboard layouts. The uses for Kodiak Max are limitless. Typical uses include Arc Flash/Electrical Warnings, OSHA Notices, Chemical Labels, Equipment Labels, Pipe Marking, NFPA Labels, Wayfinding, Rack/Bay Identification and more. Regulatory compliance labels are also preloaded and automatically updated if regulations change. A stand-alone system, the Kodiak Max is ready to use out of the box. It features Wi-Fi connectivity, a responsive touchscreen display, and a wireless keyboard. Setup is fast and easy. An intuitive user interface guides users through the sign/label printing process. The Kodiak Max Print System uses thermal transfer technology to ensure durability, vibrant colors, and sharp, 300 DPI text, graphics, barcodes, and QR codes. Signs and labels can be printed in two colors in sizes up to 10” wide x 100” long. Quick-load ribbon cartridges make color changes fast and easy. Seven ribbon colors and 17 vinyl tape colors allow for a wide range of color schemes. Exactly what companies need for ANSI/OSHA compliance. DuraLabel Premium Vinyl is water, petroleum, UV light, and chemical resistant. It has ultra-aggressive adhesive and provides exceptional performance in outdoor environments and even in extreme conditions like cold storage warehouses and non-climate-controlled facilities. To ensure performance, reliability, and durability Kodiak Max Print Systems are designed, built, and tested in the United States. They carry a five-year warranty on the printer and premium vinyl supplies. DuraLabel also provides lifetime customer support, service, setup, and design guidance.