Caldwell unveils new distributor portal
The Caldwell Group Inc. has unveiled a new online tool, where channel partners can access pricing and availability information online. The new Fast Find tool gives customers instant, online access to distributor pricing and product availability and is part of the company’s online Distributor Portal. Lisa Sympson, marketing manager at Caldwell, said: “Our customers asked, and we listened. They wanted a fast and easy way to get pricing and availability so they can prepare quotes for their customers more quickly and serve them even more efficiently. And now they’ve got it. No more phone calls. No more waiting on hold. No more delays.” To stay ahead in today’s ever-changing marketplace, manufacturers must quickly evolve to meet and exceed growing customer expectations, which means constantly improving online tools. As a manufacturer of below-the-hook lifting equipment, Caldwell has chosen to apply a continuous improvement mindset to all aspects of the business, from manufacturing to engineering, and through customer service and the overall online experience. “The thing about these dealers,” Sympson continued, “Is that they get all kinds of inquiries every day from those various end-user markets. We need to provide the support, online and otherwise, that helps them serve their customers in the best way possible. The breadth of knowledge that these partners need is vast. They’re offshore one minute, up a tower crane the next, and finish the day at an industrial site doing a chain sling inspection.” Caldwell distributors can follow three simple steps to get access today: Call 800.628.4263 or email [email protected] to request access. Caldwell completes registration and sends an email with log-in credentials. Customer clicks on the Fast Find link.
Hoist & Winch elevates success of large construction project
Hoist & Winch Ltd has recently completed a challenging project for one of the UK’s biggest construction companies involved in large-scale new home development projects. Faced with a demanding and highly technical brief, Hoist & Winch rose to the task, of providing a turnkey lifting system solution to ensure complete success for its client. The requirement was to install a concrete ceiling-mounted 7.5t swl (safe working load) lifting beam and manual chain hoist into the basement energy room of a large new tower block. This development is part of a large-scale prestigious regeneration project providing 5500 sustainable new homes in North London. At the design stage, following the formal tender and contract award, Hoist & Winch set about identifying the optimal solution. Due to restricted access to the basement area, the company decided to utilize a two-piece lifting beam design with an overall length of 7m. To join the two lifting beam sections, Hoist & Winch designed a central splice joint of bolted construction with a reinforced bottom beam flange. In order to spread the lifting loads over a greater area of the concrete ceiling slab it was decided to mount the lifting beam via four intermediate cross members, each having a four-bolt/anchor fixed into the concrete ceiling at both ends. Featuring a robust bolted construction design it was possible to deliver the lifting beam to the site in a fully dismantled form for ease of transportation and access. M24 resin anchors with an embedment of 255 mm into the 400 mm deep reinforced concrete slab fixed the intermediate cross members directly to the ceiling for maximum security. For approval by engineers at the main contractor, Hoist & Winch submitted design drawings and calculations for the structural design of the lifting beam and loading of the resin-type ceiling anchors. With the design approved, Hoist & Winch could progress to manufacturing, followed by delivery to the site. Using building column positions as datum points, the installation line of the lifting beam was marked out while working from scissor lifts and an aluminum scaffold tower located on the upper mezzanine floor. A surveyor’s laser line initially identified the correct lifting beam position, prior to overlaying with red chalk to ensure accuracy for the duration of the installation work. Raising the two lifting beam sections into position required the installation of eight 1t swl hand chain blocks, with each one suspended from M16 swivel eye bolts supported from flush-mounted anchored resin inserts drilled into the concrete ceiling slab. Following sample pull load testing, Hoist & Winch raised each lifting beam section into position using four 1t swl hand chain blocks. To raise the lifting beams to the full height and clamp them hard against the concrete ceiling slab ready for drilling, the company used two special lifting rigs per beam section. The first lifting beam section maneuvered into position also included the 7.5t swl hand chain block, which was rolled onto the lifting beam at a low level using a 1t swl hand chain block temporarily suspended from local steelwork. Once both lifting beams were in position, Hoist & Winch joined the two lifting beam sections using the aforementioned bolted splice plate. Next, the company undertook ceiling slab drilling operations and resin anchor installation for all 32 ceiling anchor points after very carefully cleaning each hole with a special heavy-duty internal brush and suction pump. Following the specified resin curing time, Hoist & Winch could tighten each anchor bolt to the required torque levels. The final installation and test operation were the LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) inspection of the lifting beam and manual chain hoist unit. This activity included dynamic load testing of the entire runway beam length with a 7.5t skid-mounted test load followed by a 125% static proof load test in accordance with BS 2853 2011. “Working as a subcontractor for the company supplying and installing the plant and services in the basement energy room, we delivered an entire turnkey lifting system solution,” states Andy Allen, Director of Hoist & Winch Ltd. “At completion, we provided the client with an overall project records and documentation package, before clearing all site equipment and undertaking customer handover. This project is just one of many exemplifying the meticulous, competent, and professional approach that Hoist & Winch customers can expect from our highly knowledgeable team.”
Inther Group provides futureproof DC for DHL Life Sciences
Two years ago, the starting signal was given for the completely new warehouse for DHL Pharma Logistics in Laekebeek (Brussels region), for which Inther Group was requested to design, construct and maintain the intralogistics system. This new warehouse (with a storage capacity of 25,000 m2 and several temperature zones) has now been put into use for storing and delivering medicines to more than 45 Belgian hospitals, doctors, pharmacists, and wholesalers. Incidentally, the building has also become the winner of Logistics Building of the Year 2022. Inther Group has provided the intralogistics hereof and integrated two former DHL sites into the new system at the new location. Automation increases efficiency Max Nijssen, the responsible Sales Engineer at Inther Group for this project, explains: “A major advantage of this project was that we could build it in a greenfield environment from the ground up at the new DC location in Laekebeek. This benefited the speed of construction and its final result. DHL was looking for higher efficiency through more automation to handle their order profile (delivery within 24 hours with higher numbers per order line) quickly and without errors. In addition, from a sustainability point of view, DHL wanted to be able to combine different orders from an end customer in one box. The complete and hybrid solution, therefore, consists of multiple elements, which together ensure the best result for DHL.” For example, a shuttle aisle with 27 levels is used, of which 17 will be taken into use in the first period (± 6,500 stock totes). The shuttles have been equipped with Inther’s own DTS software for even better coupling and integration with all other hardware. 635 meters of Inther conveyor equipment lead to, among other things, four Goods to Person workstations with pointer lights for up to eight compartments per tote and Pick to Light solutions. An Inther ADI (Automated Document Inserter) ensures the correct documents in every shipment. A box erector and closer, three Print & Apply machines, and weighing scales complete the system for DHL – all in DHL’s own branding by the way. Go-live is just the start After completing various extensive test phases with hundreds of test scenarios and almost 1,000 actions at and by Inther Group and DHL (including a System Integration Testing – the link with the DHL system Gaels), the system was successfully taken into use by DHL in November 2021. In the aftersales phase, Inther Group will further analyze the process in real life in order to continue to optimize the system to the changing intralogistics needs of DHL and its customers. DHL responds with satisfaction after go-live: the picking process is now much simpler, more efficient, and less stressful, as the goods come to the operator instead of the other way around. This was therefore enthusiastically received by the employees, but also offers advantages for the end customer. The storage is much more compact and the whole system offers several economies of scale, making it easier to expand to grow along with pharma customers. In addition, every step in the process is tracked, which ensures higher accuracy and traceability of all goods. Inther Group is certainly very proud of this project and of the successful result and looks forward to a good and lasting cooperation with DHL.
KPI Integrated Solutions opens first full-scale demonstration site in North America for New Geek+ Fourway Shuttle Solution
KPI Integrated Solutions, a supply chain consulting, software, systems integration, and automation supplier announces the opening of a full-scale demonstration site for Geek+’s multi-level, high-density, Four-Way Shuttle System at KPI’s headquarters in Belton, Missouri. As part of a KPI-designed operation that increases storage capacity, boosts throughput, and builds flexibility, the Geek+ Four-way Shuttle supports multiple picking and storage strategies for pallets, containers, and individual units. This dynamic goods-to-person solution combines Geek+’s X-series robots for pallet storage with its flagship P800 robots for ground-level picking. First launched in March 2022, the multi-level AS/RS shuttle solution is applicable for use in a variety of industries including retail, consumer goods, manufacturing, 3PL, and pharmaceuticals. “KPI is proud to partner with Geek+ to offer this exciting solution to our clients as an option for optimized storage and fast order fulfillment,” said Jim Kuecker, Chief Commercial Officer at KPI Integrated Solutions. “KPI’s sole focus is to deliver data-driven warehousing solutions and integrate industry-leading technologies for our clients that boost fulfillment speed and reduce labor dependence,” he continued. With rising warehouse costs and labor constraints, the Four-Way Shuttle system is specifically designed to maximize reserve storage space while optimizing order throughput. The combined interaction of the two robot systems provides greater operational flexibility for existing warehouses and can be integrated with existing infrastructure such as conveyor belts, robotic arms, or automatic lifts. “The team at KPI has been a trusted integrator of automated fulfillment solutions for decades and we have had great experiences with their organization’s dedication to solving unique challenges,” said Randy Randolph, VP, Channels & Partnerships, at Geek+ America. “Their Kansas City location is an ideal, centralized location for interested parties to learn more about how this new, dynamic solution can impact a business’s bottom line.” https://youtu.be/v_SBpQRy00k
US Service Group acquires assets and operations of Dalton Rigging and Transport
US Service Group LLC, a New York-based industrial services company, has acquired the assets and operations of Dalton Rigging and Transport, West Hartford, Conn. US Service Group LLC, a New York-based industrial services company, has acquired the assets and operations of Dalton Rigging and Transport, West Hartford, Conn. Dalton Rigging provides a broad range of rigging and transportation services to customers throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts. Kevin Dalton, president of Dalton Rigging, will be joining USSG along with the balance of Dalton Rigging employees. Combined with Walker Crane & Rigging Corp., based in Plainville, Conn., which USSG acquired earlier this year, USSG has established itself as the premier rigging and transportation operation in Connecticut, the company said. With the acquisition of Dalton Rigging, USSG continues its strategy of building an industry-leading national rigging, machinery moving, logistics, and warehousing business. Along with Able Rigging Contractors, Walker, and Transcope Services, USSG now consists of three separate operating businesses focused on providing rigging and machinery moving services to a diverse customer base including multiple Fortune 500 and top construction companies in the United States. A number of other companies are in discussions about becoming part of USSG, the company said. “Acquiring Dalton Rigging, along with Walker, strengthens USSG’s presence in the New England region and expands our network of rigging and logistics services into this attractive market,” said Steve Laganas, USSG founder and CEO. “We are very pleased that Kevin Dalton and his team are now part of USSG. With Kevin’s history, stellar reputation, strong customer relationships, and Walker’s broader scope of service capabilities, we see USSG will continue to grow and prosper in this market.” Laganas is also the owner and CEO of Able Equipment Rental, headquartered in Deer Park, N.Y.
JLG’s all-new E18 Vertical Mast Lifts now available
JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company and a global manufacturer of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and telehandlers, introduces an all-new vertical mast lift series to the market. The new JLG® E18MCL model is well-suited for construction and industrial applications that require outdoor and indoor capable machines while the E18MML model is ideal for finish work and general maintenance work, as well as for cleaner indoor-only applications. Both E18 models are available with a Stock Picker Package Option for warehouse and distribution center applications. “The new E18 vertical lift series from JLG has been engineered to provide the most important features and benefits: Maximized durability, ease of serviceability and enhanced productivity — while keeping operator safety, confidence, and comfort in mind,” says Misty Mason, JLG’s product manager. “These new models offer an efficient and productive way to tackle up-and-over work and an alternative to using ladders and scaffolding.” According to Mason, the “E” in these models’ nomenclature stands for “Electric,” giving a nod to the machines’ modern DC electric drive system. Equipped with long-running batteries, JLG’s E18 models offer two times more duty cycles than the market-leading competitive machines. And thanks to the batteries being mounted under the platform, the E18s also are designed with improved machine weight distribution for efficient loading and unloading. Application specific “One benefit of these new JLG vertical mast lifts is that these machines allow users to access confined spaces,” says Mason. The E18MCL is rated for indoor and outdoor use, opening up unlimited application opportunities. Equipped with solid, non-marketing tires, its scissor-style steering is similar to JLG scissor lifts for quick familiarization and reliable control through tight areas like doorways. The E18MML is rated for indoor use only, making it an ideal machine for sensitive flooring and finish work applications, including maintenance. Equipped with caster wheels, this model’s Point & Go® steering is the same as the more traditional vertical lift steering style on JLG’s predecessor models. The Stock Picker Package option, available on both E18 models, includes a fold-down work tray platform with side entry saloon doors, gate alarm, and dual amber beacons. Notable features These new models come standard with JLG’s field-proven load-sensing system. This pressure-based system monitors the load of persons, materials, and tools in the platform to ensure the machines’ capacity ratings are not exceeded. Optimized for durability, the E18s are engineered with an improved roller system on the extension deck and re-engineered mast guards to reduce the potential for debris to accumulate and hinder the operation. These models are designed with the operator in mind, featuring modern, ergonomic controls and an enhanced entry/exit from the platform. And, their quick change platform system allows operators to efficiently switch platforms in one minute to suit unique job requirements. There are five different platform options, including extension decks and trays, to choose from to increase productivity. The new JLG E18 vertical mast lifts share commonality with JLG scissor lifts, including toolless entry into key areas, to enhance serviceability. “This reduces familiarization time and increases efficiency with parts, service, and maintenance needs,” Mason says. And, she notes, that these models are compatible with the JLG Handheld Analyzer for on-site troubleshooting and are equipped with the onboard Multi-Display Indicator that provides real-time information on the machine. Mason adds that these models are also available with market-leading options such as ClearSky™ telematics for fleet maintenance and management, CleanGuard™ for leak containment, and a USB charger and phone cradle to give operators extra conveniences in the platform. Spec check “The new JLG E18 vertical lifts are spec’d for productivity,” says Mason. The E18MCL’s platform height is 18 ft indoors and 13 ft outdoors, while the E18MML and the E18 with Stock Picker Package Option models have 18 ft indoors. The E18 models also boast a platform capacity of 450 lbs when equipped with the standard platform. “This is 22 percent more capacity than comparable competitive vertical models in the market,” she says. Mason adds, “Keeping machine weight low was also very important in designing these machines.” The E18s weighs 1900 lbs when equipped with the standard platform — a lower gross vehicle weight than comparable competitive vertical models, which are over 2,000 lbs. And, these models are engineered with a zero turning radius and 30-percent gradeability to provide maximum maneuverability in a lightweight machine. “This means that these machines can go on most freight elevators, work on sensitive flooring and fit through doorways,” she finishes. JLG’s new E18 vertical mast lifts are now available to order. For more information on these new models, click here.
Carolina Handling releases Santa’s Automated Workshop to highlight intralogistics solutions offerings
For the second year in a row, Carolina Handling has released a children’s holiday book, this one illustrating the Raymond lift truck dealer’s capabilities as an automated systems integrator. Santa’s Automated Workshop is the second of the company’s Solutions for Santa Books and a sequel to last year’s If Santa Had a Lift Truck, which won three ADDY Awards in the categories of book design, copywriting, and direct mail. Written by Carolina Handling’s Marketing department and illustrated by Jason Craft, Santa’s Automated Workshop explores what happens when Jolly Old St. Nicholas packs his bags and moves to Cozumel. Following the instructions in a note left by Santa upon his departure, the elves call Carolina Handling to help save Christmas. The book highlights Carolina Handling’s capabilities in consulting and systems design, conveyor and sortation, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), automated storage and retrieval systems, and Raymond Corporation’s industry-exclusive Pick2Pallet LED Light System and iWAREHOUSE telematics. The exclusive Raymond Solutions and Support Center in the Southeast, Carolina Handling also provides advanced automated solutions that increase throughput and assist with ongoing labor shortages and consumer demand. The company’s Intralogistics Solutions Group offers design and engineering services, along with several automated products for systems integration. “Santa’s Automated Workshop is a unique, memorable way to show Carolina Handling’s capabilities beyond lift truck sales and service,” said Director of Marketing Donna Waldrep. “We illustrate in a fun, yet informative format what Carolina Handling offers as an integrated material handling solutions provider by helping Santa automate, connect and optimize.” To view Santa’s Automated Workshop flip book, visit solutionsforsanta.com.
Workplace safety professionals invited to DEI Summit
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) opened registration today for a free daylong summit on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the occupational safety and health profession. The online event on Jan. 26 is open to workplace safety and health professionals across all industries. Virtual seats are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The DEI Summit will include sessions and discussions that make the connection between DEI concepts and workplace safety. Presenters and attendees will examine the current state of DEI in the industry, generating ideas on how to remove barriers and build inclusive cultures to help the safety profession create safer workplaces. “Diversity helps strengthen an organization in many ways, including the safety and health of its workforce,” said ASSP President Christine Sullivan, CSP, ARM. “We are going to hear from experts and collect different perspectives from attendees on how we can elevate DEI in our profession.” Participants will collaborate on the DEI issues facing the industry today and hear from knowledgeable presenters who will discuss how DEI directly impacts workplace safety and health. Attendees will earn continuing education units to help maintain a range of professional certifications. ASSP is the world’s oldest professional safety organization with 36,000 members around the globe who are committed to principles of fairness, respect, and equitable opportunities for all. “This event is a critical part of our journey as safety professionals to ensure our profession welcomes and embraces a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives to achieve the safest environments on the job,” Sullivan said. “Organizational improvement occurs when diversity, equity, and inclusion are embedded components.” ASSP works to foster a dynamic culture that values the diversity of its staff, global membership, and the entire profession, aiming to accelerate that progress through educational opportunities and events. Differences of race, ethnicity, class, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, nationality, ability, and education should not only be accepted but widely celebrated. “It’s so important to understand how societal issues such as racism and systemic inequities can impede career advancement, undermine workplace safety, and disenfranchise workers,” Sullivan said. “I look forward to engaging with summit attendees to experience their energy as we work together on meaningful change.” For more information on the virtual DEI Summit and to register, please visit ASSP’s website.
Hikvision launches new Learning and Development Campaign: Free virtual classroom training for integrators
Virtual training is designed to increase product knowledge among installing technicians and salespeople, including Dec. 9 educational webinar about the program’s value Hikvision, a world manufacturer and supplier of security products and solutions that deliver the ideal combination of high performance and extreme value, is proud to launch its Learning and Development (L&D) campaign encouraging security businesses to sign up for its virtual training courses. Integrators and installing technicians are encouraged to sign up online for the free Instructor Led virtual training courses, each designed to educate on a variety of Hikvision products with varying skill levels. A short webinar on Friday, December 9 will help dealers—both business owners and managers—understand the value of virtual training. “It is important we deliver flexible, free virtual training for our customers. Giving their team members access to new product knowledge and practice helps integrators’ salespeople feel comfortable presenting these solutions to end users and gives technicians the skillset to easily install and troubleshoot in the field, ” said John Xiao, Vice President of Marketing, Hikvision USA. “Our online courses are ideal for those technicians who do not want to travel or attend-in person training, but would still like to receive personalized instruction on some of the most popular Hikvision solutions.” All Hikvision virtual training courses are free and can be accessed anywhere via an internet connection. Course instructors can interact with attendees in real-time, offering a personalized learning experience in a low-stress setting. A virtual environment also allows attendees to experience or practice with products they have not yet experienced in person to improve their competency prior to installation. This helps technicians and salespeople achieve expert-level product knowledge that ultimately improves sales and boosts customer satisfaction. As a part of Hikvision’s Learning and Development Campaign, those interested in the virtual training courses can attend an online, informative webinar on December 9, 2022. This short webinar is designed to help business owners, managers, dealers, and technicians understand how easy virtual training is and how course attendance can benefit operations overall. To view the virtual classroom training calendar, please visit: catalog.hikvisionlearning.com/event-calendar/ To register for the informational webinar, please visit: https://hikvision.webex.com/weblink/register/rd84535c9214bf1a51a94660a1b96b447
KION North America expanding operations in Dorchester County
An estimated $40 million investment will create approximately 450 new jobs KION North America, a member of the KION Group, has announced plans to expand operations in Dorchester County. The company’s estimated $40 million investment will create approximately 450 new jobs. KION North America is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of industrial trucks. The company’s brands, Linde Material Handling and Baoli, serve the specific requirements of the North American market with a comprehensive and complementary product portfolio known for innovative technologies, low energy consumption, and low operating costs. Headquartered at 2450 W. 5th Street in Summerville, KION North America is reshoring the manufacturing of core components including forklift masts. The company is also adding assembly lines that will involve the installation of crane systems, automated weld systems, new paint facilities, and more. The expansion is expected to be complete in 2024. Individuals interested in joining the KION North America team should visit the company’s careers page. The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to this project. The council also approved a $500,000 Set-Aside grant to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction. “We are proud to be investing in South Carolina, particularly in Dorchester County. Both the state and county have been excellent partners in this process. The KION Group is highly committed to expanding in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico and believes customers deserve products customized for these markets. We look forward to reaching more customers with our full-scale traditional lift truck portfolio and custom solutions such as automation, telematics, and fleet management.” said KION North America President and Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Dawley “Thanks to our state’s exceptional workforce and business-friendly environment, global leaders like KION Group are finding success here and driving our economy forward. Congratulations to KION North America on this latest expansion,” said Gov. Henry McMaster “We applaud KION North America’s ongoing growth in Dorchester County and the new opportunities they are creating for South Carolinians with this expansion. When a company decides to grow its footprint in South Carolina, it reiterates our state’s support for existing industries,” said Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III “KION North America has been a valued part of Dorchester County, and we are thankful for their continued presence and new investment in our community. Congratulations KION North America on your new expansion, and we wish you continued success,” said Dorchester County Council Chairman Bill Hearn FIVE FAST FACTS KION North America is expanding operations in Dorchester County. The company’s estimated $40 million investment will create approximately 450 new jobs. KION North America, a member of the KION Group, is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of industrial trucks. Located at 2450 W. 5th Street in Summerville, S.C. Individuals interested in joining the KION North America team should visit the company’s careers page.
Women In Trucking Association announces its December 2022 Member of the Month
The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced Kathy Tuccaro as its December 2022 Member of the Month. Tuccaro is a Heavy Equipment Operator for ExxonMobil. Although Tuccaro was a nurse for 13 years, she found herself on a destructive path, even homeless, due to decades of unresolved trauma. A wake-up call led her to a women’s recovery center, where she spent the next year relearning who she really was and accepting the most authentic version of herself. At the age of 42, nursing was the only career she knew so she attended a career planning workshop to figure out her next steps in life. After three days of aptitude and personality tests, she was handed a paper that had “Heavy Equipment Operator” in large, bold letters. “I laughed so hard I almost fell out of my chair,” Tuccaro said. “I didn’t even like equipment, I was not mechanically inclined, and I considered that a man’s job. I told the woman that her test was wrong.” However, the woman looked back at her and sternly said, “if you believe in yourself a little bit, you will see the test is right!” From there, Tuccaro was sent to a non-profit organization, Women Building Futures, where ExxonMobil was sponsoring 16 women to take a 12-week Heavy Equipment Operator course. She was selected out of 170 applicants, hired by ExxonMobil in 2013, and now drives a 400-ton 797F Caterpillar Mining Truck, a 52,000-gallon water truck, and a 24M Grader. “I highly encourage women to try a career in the non-traditional trades,” she said. “It pays well, is super fun, and will challenge you to be your best self in every aspect of your life.” Now 10 years sober, Tuccaro has written three books and travels the world working with women and youth in schools, juvenile homes, prisons, and communities. Additionally, she has won two awards for being an ambassador for women in the trades, has been featured in magazines, on radio shows, podcasts, and TV shows, and is a co-host on a radio show, Women Road Warriors, with Shelley Johnson on TNCRadio.Live. Tuccaro’s experience with homelessness inspired her to start “Operation Hydration,” where she distributes water to the homeless during the hottest months of the year in the cities where she’s traveling. She also started a work boot recycling program, donating gently used boots and hard hats to programs that assist people in need who are pursuing a job in the trades. This initiative has led her to distribute more than 7,000 pairs of boots to the communities in Alberta, Canada. When asked about her advice to other women, Tuccaro said, “to anyone out there who is craving change, start by changing the story you are telling yourself. You must believe in the person you want to become, then work every day to reach your goals. You won’t regret the efforts put into building a new and better you. If I can do it, so can you!”
Locus Robotics lands $117 million in Series F funding
Locus Robotics, a provider of autonomous mobile robots (AMR) for fulfillment and distribution warehouses, today announced more than $117 million in Series F funding, led by Goldman Sachs Asset Management and G2 Venture Partners. As part of the financing, Mark Midle, Managing Director, Goldman Sachs, and Zach Barasz, Partner, G2 Venture Partners, will join the Locus Board of Directors, bringing their unique industry perspectives and insights to further guide Locus’s next stage of growth and global expansion. “Locus has established itself as an innovative, high-quality market leader for flexible automation in the massive warehouse fulfillment and distribution market,” said Mark Midle of Goldman Sachs. “Our investment reflects our view that Locus has the product offering and the operational excellence required to meet and exceed the market challenges posed by today’s dynamic economic environment.” “This new round of funding marks an important inflection point for Locus Robotics as we look toward our next stage of growth, and we strategically chose to bring in investors with a wealth of experience in both public and private markets to advise us as we continue our journey,” said Rick Faulk, CEO of Locus Robotics. “As the rapid digital transformation of the supply chain continues, warehouses increasingly seek flexible, intelligent robotics automation to improve productivity and grow their operations, despite ongoing labor shortages and exploding order volumes.” Locus Robotics is known for its assistive-pick “multi-bot” AMRs and supporting execution software, which according to the company, deliver 2X-3X productivity by seamlessly coordinating both human labor and AMRs to dramatically improve order fulfillment efficiency and workplace ergonomics while lowering operational costs. “Locus is clearly a winner in the flexible warehouse robotics space, and the consistency with which the Locus team has executed is extraordinary,” said Zach Barasz of G2 Venture Partners. “We are thrilled to be investors in Locus Robotics, and to partner with the leading warehouse execution company in making global supply chains faster, more cost-effective, and more resilient and sustainable.” Locus Robotics has more than 230 sites under contract around the world – some having as many as 500 LocusBots per site. The company explains that its solution efficiently and seamlessly orchestrates the operation and management of multiple robot form factors, and provides forward-looking, real-time business intelligence, critical for optimizing productivity, proactively managing labor, and managing costs. “By 2026, 75% of large enterprises in product-centric businesses will have adopted some form of intralogistics robots in their warehouse operations,” said Dwight Klappich, Analyst, Gartner, in comments on the AMR market. “The lower price of entry and faster time to value of robotics opens the market to more companies that can justify automation … as companies adopt robotics, most organizations will expand and scale their use of robotics within the enterprise, leading to fleet growth.” “As order volumes continue to increase and labor shortages persist worldwide, robotics automation is now a must-have for warehouse operators,” said Ash Sharma, Managing Director, Interact Analysis. “Locus is uniquely positioned as a leader in digital transformation in this enormous global market as warehouse operators increasingly focus on scalability, fast ROI, and ease of deployment.” Locus partners with the world’s leading warehouse operators to create a powerful synergy that speeds deployment and delivers powerful, actionable business intelligence to optimize warehouse productivity, cost management, and labor management. “Our 5-year partnership with Locus has enabled DHL to deliver more resilient, flexible, and scalable supply chain solutions to our customers to support faster delivery, improve operational efficiency, and reduce employee workloads,” said Sally Miller, CIO of DHL Supply Chain North America. “In that time, Locus’s ability to integrate groundbreaking technologies into our operations seamlessly and in a targeted way has been a tremendous success for our customers’ supply chains.” In September 2022, Locus reached a major milestone with its industry-first 1 billionth pick. It took Locus 1,542 days to pick its first 100 million units and just 59 days for the last 100 million picks. Locus robots now average more than three million picks per day around the world. Locus counts more than 90 customers worldwide, including CEVA Logistics, DHL, Material Bank, Boots UK, GEODIS, Whiplash, Verst Logistics, Radial, and others, who are consistently doubling and tripling their fulfillment productivity, with near-100% accuracy, using the Locus solution. Also participating in the Series F round were Stack Capital Group, SuRo Capital, Next47, Stafford Capital Partners, HESTA, Newton Investment Management North America, Gray’s Creek Capital, Silicon Valley Bank, Hercules Capital, Inc., BOND, and Scale Venture Partners. According to Locus Robotics, this latest F Series round values the company at “close to” $2 billion.
House votes to avert strike, railroads calls on Senate to pass clean package
Today, the House of Representatives approved legislation to implement neutrally arbitrated tentative agreements reached with the remaining unions and avert an economically devastating strike. On the heels of that bipartisan vote, the House then narrowly passed a partisan resolution to insert itself between the parties undermining longstanding bargaining principles and compromising future negotiations not just for the freight rail industry but Amtrak and the airlines as well. Railroads are calling on the Senate to swiftly implement the tentative agreements and reject the Sanders-led push to add terms to the contract beyond the scope of the Biden PEB recommendations. “Today’s strong House vote to follow the clear majority pattern and implement remaining tentative agreements clearly underscores the overwhelming bipartisan support for Congress to heed President Biden’s call and quickly avert an economically destructive national rail shutdown without modification or delay,” said AAR President & CEO Ian Jefferies. “The Senate must now act quickly to implement the historic deals reached at the bargaining table and already ratified by eight of twelve unions. Unless Congress wants to become the de facto endgame for future negotiations, any effort to put its thumb on the bargaining scale to artificially advantage either party, or otherwise obstruct a swift resolution, would be wholly irresponsible, and risk a timely outcome to avoid significant economic harm.”
BSLBATT receives $1.65M replacement order for Yale, Toyota Jungheinrich, Nichiyu and Still forklift batteries
BSLBATT battery is a fast-paced, high-growth (200% YoY ) hi-tech company that is leading the adoption of lithium-ion technology solutions. We design, manufacture, and sell advanced lithium-ion battery packs that are disrupting the 100+-year-old market for lead-acid batteries. Today announced the receipt of a battery purchase order through its BSLBATT sales channel valued at about US$1.65 million. The batteries will be used by a leading forklift Dealer company to power end customers in Material Handling, Paper and Packaging, Food and Beverage, Refrigerated Storage, Manufacturing Industry, Fresh Produce, Wine Industry, Distribution, and 3PL industries in a new distribution center in South East Asia. The purchase order follows the company’s announcement on November 24, 2022, to confirm receipt of the customer’s 30% deposit to start production. A detailed description of the specific purchase order for the battery model and delivery location is shown in the figure below. The company expects to deliver batteries in its fiscal fourth quarter ending December 31, 2022. What made the customer decide to replace the lead-acid battery on the original forklift? With lead-acid batteries, Jenny Zeng says, trucks typically cycle through 8 hours of use, 8 hours of charging, and 8 hours of cooling per day to accommodate acid-level maintenance and other maintenance requirements. “It’s a very delicate process if done right; people who do it right can make their lead-acid batteries last a long time. Unfortunately, the reverse is also true. If people are careless, they will experience things like running Issues like short times, battery sulfation, and even acid leaking onto the floor. With lead-acid batteries, maintenance can become an issue, and the battery life is not five or six years, but three or four years.” In addition, the charging room of the warehouse needs air conditioning and ventilation fans to reduce the toxic gas released when the lead-acid battery is charged. This is not a problem with lithium-ion batteries. “Concerns about corrosive acids are gone. Handling batteries and switching at the start and end of each shift is gone,” Jenny Zeng said. “You can put the charging room space to its maximum and best use, not just overhead.” Other benefits of lithium-ion batteries include: TOLL – More flexible charging times: “opportunistic charging” (i.e. charging anywhere, even for brief downtimes such as lunch breaks) – No off-season maintenance: the lithium battery can be turned off and idle for 3-9 months at a time, then turned on and put into use with negligible power loss – Fast charging (2 hours or less), no “memory” effect Performance – Fast lifting and travel speeds at all discharge levels (no voltage drop) – Single battery operation with multi-shift charging – Service life > 3,500 cycles Cut costs – Longer service life: The expected service life of lithium-ion batteries is at least twice that of lead-acid batteries. With a typical new lithium battery forklift lease, the Li-on will likely last for two three-year leases. Afterward, it is still possible to transfer it to second-hand equipment or repurpose it (e.g. for energy storage) – Zero routine maintenance – Reduced wear and tear on forklift parts “This is not only an exciting project but also demonstrates the company’s ability to quickly deliver large-scale projects. Considering the rapid rise in demand for rental lithium battery forklifts by end users in the Southeast Asian market, we expect that by the end of this year, this user will become BSLBATT Southeast Asia The largest forklift rental battery operator in the regional lithium battery replacement lead-acid market,” said Mr. Haley, Chief Operating Officer of BSLBATT.
TAB Wrapper Tornado secures all four sides plus top and bottom to pallet
Orbital wrapping machines in the TAB Wrapper Tornado line from TAB Industries, LLC, Reading, Pa., enable packaging and material handling professionals to wrap stretch film around all four sides of a pallet load and around the top and bottom to fully enclose the pallet and load as a stable, unitized load that stays intact during transport. Solving a key shortcoming of horizontal turntable wrappers that leave the top and bottom of a pallet load unsecured, the TAB Wrapper Tornado pallet wrapper automatically wraps plastic film 360 degrees under and around the pallet and load while it is raised on a forklift. After wrapping the top, bottom, and two sides in seconds, the lift truck driver simply exits the wrapping ring, rotates the pallet load, and returns to the orbital wrapping machine for a second pass that secures the load in all six directions against shifting and sliding. “The turntable wrappers only wrap the products to each other,” says Steve Lewis, owner of Oregon Powder Coating, Tangent, Ore. “We needed to secure our products to the pallet and keep them from sliding off the pallet – the TAB Wrapper Tornado ensures they arrive safely in the same pristine condition as when they left the building.” The patent-pending orbital stretch wrappers are available in semi-automated and automated models with 100-inch, 80-inch, and 40-inch wrapping ring diameters as standard to accommodate 60” x 60”, 48” x 48” and 24” x 24” pallets respectively. The stretch wrapping machines are designed and manufactured at the company’s Reading, Pa. headquarters and delivered ready for operation with a warranty.
ProMach bolsters retort portfolio with acquisition of Ferlo
The deal expands ProMach’s international footprint and global retort capacity to readily serve global brands requiring the sterilization and pasteurization of consumer products ProMach, a worldwide provider of processing and packaging solutions, announced the acquisition of Ferlo, a manufacturer of retorts, pasteurizing tunnels, and associated product handling automation systems commonly used to provide shelf-stable food products with expanded shelf life. The acquisition of Ferlo increases ProMach’s existing position in processing equipment, expanding its international presence in the retort segment as well as strengthening its manufacturing capacity and supply chain partnerships. For over 50 years, Ferlo has tailored sterilization systems to the specific needs of customers in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Ferlo’s core offerings include a variety of autoclaves and pasteurizing tunnels for cooking and sterilizing foods, beverages, and pharmaceutical products, complemented by a range of delivery systems to accommodate the material handling of a variety of package types and production processes. ProMach’s existing portfolio includes product brands Allpax and Stock America, with complementary retort room offerings predominately serving the North American market. Ferlo, based in San Adrián, Navarra, Spain, largely serves the global market outside of North America with systems installed across Europe, South America, South Africa, the Middle East, India, and Asia. “Ferlo’s significant presence and strong customer relationships outside North America make it a great fit with our existing business,” said Mark Anderson, ProMach President and CEO. “They’ve built tremendous brand reputation serving many large global companies, and it’s exactly what we need as we continue to expand internationally.” ProMach’s Allpax product brand has been working with Ferlo for nearly two decades, utilizing its manufacturing competency to assist in supplying retort room equipment. “It’s something they excel at,” said Greg Jacob, Senior Vice President of ProMach’s Handling and Sterilizing business line. “While they do an outstanding job outfitting Ferlo branded retort systems, they also have a best-in-class process to efficiently manufacture high-quality pressure vessels, which has developed into a great manufacturing partnership between the businesses. Ferlo and its entire staff are joining the ProMach team as part of ProMach’s Handling & Sterilizing business line under the leadership of Greg Jacob. Current Ferlo owner and President, Rafael Lopez, will join ProMach as Vice President and General Manager of Ferlo. ProMach will continue to invest in Ferlo’s team, brand, products, services, facility, distribution relationships, and research and development efforts to further advance its position as a leader in processing technologies. “Working with ProMach’s product brands firsthand over the years, I’ve witnessed their ability to execute time and time again and win large projects,” said Mr. Lopez. “The number of orders we’ve fulfilled for Allpax and Stock America speak for themselves. I’m looking forward to taking our strategic relationship to the next level, as I feel we are well-positioned to increase our global capacity and service customers around the globe.” ProMach continues to grow its international footprint to better provide localized support for customers across its product segments. “Having a reliable international network is vital for our global customers,” Mr. Anderson explained. “And we want to deliver great customer service all over the world to them. The people and products at Ferlo give ProMach a broad line of retort solutions and improve our support capabilities. We are excited about the growth opportunities at Ferlo.”
New Low Voltage LED Panel Indicator Bulbs are color-coded for convenience and energy savings
LEDtronics®, Inc., adds a new series of low-voltage lamps to its large and constantly expanding selection of LED Metal Panel Indicators, as direct replacements for inefficient and low-performing incandescent counterparts. These 12VDC panel indicators with a 0.10-inch wide spade terminal fit 14mm (0.551 inches) mounting holes inside control panels and status indicators located in power plants, assembly lines, industrial controls, automotive, and more applications. They fit panels with a thickness ranging from 0.5mm to 8mm. The PT14M-012V-T1 series LED lamps feature a shallow, color-tinted, diffused lens dome with a nickel-plated bezel and a 5mm LED; they are offered in a choice of aqua green, super red, and super yellow colors. The matching color of the polycarbonate body and base makes it a convenient indication of the color of the lamp. They are housed in copper alloy and come with a black Buna-N O-ring, an 18-8 stainless steel internal-tooth lock washer, and an H59 nickel-plated brass nut with a maximum torque of 13 ft-lbs (18 Nm). These 12VDC LED panel mount lamps only consume a minimal 0.1 watt of power and operate on an input current of 0.006 amperes, providing a luminous intensity range of 100 to 1325 millicandelas and a luminous flux between 0.1 and 1 lumens, depending on color. The angle of illumination varies between 40 and 75 degrees. They are IP67 rated – dust-tight and immersion in water up to 1 meter in depth. Solid-state design renders them impervious to electrical and mechanical shock, vibration, frequent on-and-off switching, and environmental fluctuation. Additionally, these ROHS-compliant LED lamps contain no harmful mercury or other toxic elements and, unlike their incandescent counterparts, generate only negligible heat and emit neither UV/IR. Their long life, energy savings of up to 90% over incandescent lamps, and reliability in a wide operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C lower costs and reduce re-lamp frequency. Utility monitors, industrial designers, and maintenance departments will find these lights to be excellent solutions for maintenance-intensive and critical-process applications. The latest series of LEDtronics Low-Voltage LED Metal Panel Indicator Lights with spade terminals come with an unconditional 3-year U.S. factory warranty. They are available through LEDtronics distributors, and quantity discounts are available. Other voltages and color options for large quantities and qualified applications are also available.
U S Rail Traffic for the week ending November 26, 2022
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) has reported U.S. rail traffic for the week ending November 26, 2022. For this week, total U.S. weekly rail traffic was 413,305 carloads and intermodal units, down 4.1 percent compared with the same week last year. Total carloads for the week ending November 26 were 206,792 carloads, down 1.1 percent compared with the same week in 2021, while U.S. weekly intermodal volume was 206,513 containers and trailers, down 6.9 percent compared to 2021. Four of the 10 carload commodity groups posted an increase compared with the same week in 2021. They included miscellaneous carloads, up 4,015 carloads, to 10,410; motor vehicles and parts, up 1,516 carloads, to 12,199; and metallic ores and metals, up 299 carloads, to 18,552. Commodity groups that posted decreases compared with the same week in 2021 included grain, down 3,354 carloads, to 20,261; coal, down 2,211 carloads, to 61,740; and chemicals, down 1,854 carloads, to 28,184. For the first 47 weeks of 2022, U.S. railroads reported a cumulative volume of 10,892,805 carloads, up 0.2 percent from the same point last year; and 12,298,102 intermodal units, down 4.8 percent from last year. Total combined U.S. traffic for the first 47 weeks of 2022 was 23,190,907 carloads and intermodal units, a decrease of 2.5 percent compared to last year. North American rail volume for the week ending November 26, 2022, on 12 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 311,026 carloads, up 4.4 percent compared with the same week last year, and 283,638 intermodal units, up 0.3 percent compared with last year. Total combined weekly rail traffic in North America was 594,664 carloads and intermodal units, up 2.4 percent. North American rail volume for the first 47 weeks of 2022 was 31,825,338 carloads and intermodal units, down 1.9 percent compared with 2021. Canadian railroads reported 84,179 carloads for the week, up 25.8 percent, and 63,444 intermodal units, up 37.8 percent compared with the same week in 2021. For the first 47 weeks of 2022, Canadian railroads reported a cumulative rail traffic volume of 6,863,728 carloads, containers, and trailers, down 0.9 percent. Mexican railroads reported 20,055 carloads for the week, down 8 percent compared with the same week last year, and 13,681 intermodal units, down 9 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 47 weeks of 2022 was 1,770,703 carloads and intermodal containers and trailers, up 3.4 percent from the same point last year. To view the weekly rail traffic charts, click here.
BSLBATT makes gains in forklift lithium batteries
Following many decades of engineering evolution around the only power-source technology (the lead-acid battery), electric lift trucks and forklifts have finally adopted a new power source: Industrial lithium-ion battery packs. The benefits of lithium solutions are well-known by now — higher performance, less maintenance, and higher ROI. Lithium batteries provide a better return on investment and enable the use of automated guided vehicles and mobile robots (AGVs and AMRs), which rely heavily on durable ”hands-off” lithium batteries. Just how rapidly lithium batteries are taking hold in the lift truck market is something research firm Interact Analysis has studied closely, looking at data from multiple angles, including forklift classes, countries, and regions. The firm’s latest analysis finds that by 2030, 45% of the total forklift market, including combustion engines, will be powered by lithium batteries. Among all electric lift trucks, that share will be about 70%, says Maya Xiao, the senior analyst with Interact heading up the research. “There are two overall directions the research shows,” says Xiao. “One is that electric power is replacing internal combustion as a power source; and two is that within electric units, there’s an increasing trend from lead-acid batteries toward lithium batteries.” The OEMs that make smaller electric units, such as walkie-pallet jacks, will offer nearly all lithium-ion-powered products by the end of the decade. OEMs producing units weighing less than 250 kilograms already are focused on lithium power, explains Xiao, and by 2030, those offerings are expected to be nearly 100% lithium-powered. “It’s very easy for one order of these smaller forklifts to number into the hundreds at a larger logistics services or e-commerce company,” Xiao says. “Companies will ‘rinse and repeat’ with large orders as they replace older equipment, other companies will see the success, and that will help drive the market.” Xiao expects a shift toward lithium in Class 2 trucks, which cover narrow aisle equipment, moving toward automated narrow aisle systems with lithium power. When investing in these solutions, the battery price tag is not a huge factor because they’re focused on other aspects like uptime, throughput, and productivity, Xiao points out. The main areas of appeal for lithium lift truck batteries include low maintenance, high energy density, higher efficiency means more power, and fast opportunity charging during breaks, which when done properly, allows electric forklifts to run without battery swaps. However, lithium has faced some recent bumps, including ongoing supply chain delays this year, and rising costs for materials, since lithium batteries are in high demand in other vehicle segments. Interact Analysis lowered its lithium growth prediction for the lift truck market recently due to ongoing supply chain and cost concerns, says Xiao. Such concerns have generally led to longer lead times for lift truck buyers, Xiao added that such concerns often lead to longer delivery times for forklift buyers, which in some cases means that forklift manufacturers, as well as forklift dealer companies, look for high-quality forklift lithium battery manufacturers in the Chinese market, Instead of waiting for the original forklift manufacturer to provide. On this blog, BSLBATT compiled the 10 Best Lithium Forklift Battery Brands and Manufacturers (Comprehensive List and Reviews) Learn about the company history and what batteries each company offers.
Sunbelt Rentals acquires Wagner Rental & Supply locations
Sunbelt Rentals has acquired Wagner Rental & Supply, which has locations in Chillicothe, New Boston, Jackson, Ohio, and Ashland, Kentucky. “We are excited to announce the start of a new chapter at Wagner Rental & Supply. After much thought and consideration, we have decided to merge our four locations with Sunbelt Rentals and become part of their team. We are certain that this new chapter will result in us serving our community better and will help advance the careers of all of our current employees. After this transition, you will continue to see the same faces at each of our locations and we are excited to better serve you!” Wagner Rental & Supply has been in business for nearly 75 years. The company primarily rented to small contractors and homeowners, offering a wide range of hand tools, plumbing tools, lawn and garden equipment, track loaders, excavators, skid-steer loaders, floor-care equipment, scaffolding equipment, and aerial equipment. The Stansberry Firm represented Wagner Rental & Supply in the transaction.