EnKon Systems' New Ball Screw Lift

EnKon Systems introduces a new electric ball screw lift table for automation and robotic applications that require maximum control. Control features such as long standing static load positioning, accurate repeatability, and speed directed by Variable Frequency Drives provide any manufacturing or assembly plant with the power needed to improve their application's operation. The lift system can easily integrate with robotics, conveyors, machines, and any other automated system.  Precision control capability is +/- .03″ (.76 mm).

The electric ball screw lift system, compatible with alternating current AC or direct current DC motors, is capable of lifting up to 50,000 lbs (22,680 kg). Captured wheel guides prevent the lift's platforms from tipping, and a catch nut system prevents the lift from falling in the event the load-bearing nut fails. High duty cycle capabilities and low maintenance requirements are additional features that add to the lift system's attraction.

 

 

 

KardexRemstar's Parallel Picking Improves Efficiency & Accuracy

KardexRemstar’s parallel picking is an order picking technique that can be used to improve the efficiency and accuracy in industrial material order picking operations. Parallel picking is often implemented into industrial material picking operations when standard picking methods become too slow or constrictive. Using the parallel picking method, the warehouse is divided into multiple picking zones.

When orders are requested, stock keeping units (SKUs) are picked from each zone simultaneously, in parallel, and transported to order consolidation. In a well-integrated parallel picking operation, each pick zone is matched with the optimum material handling technology. This allows each zone to work most efficiently. Based on the SKU profile of the work zone, material handling equipment, labor and velocity can be balanced to meet order picking needs. For example, high volume parts can go into flow racks, medium to slow moving parts into vertical lift modules (VLMs), vertical and horizontal carousels, and very slow moving parts into rack and shelving systems. Using this approach, automated storage and retrieval systems can be used in conjunction with non-automated systems to provide optimum order picking operations and create higher productivity. Parallel picking requires a shift in philosophy from picking an order to picking parts. In a traditional order picking operation, employees criss-cross the warehouse moving from storage location to storage location, searching for the parts necessary to fill a specific order. When an order is complete, it is delivered to a shipping area and the picker starts another order, retracing their earlier steps. Industrial material operations that rely solely on traditional order picking methods often can't sustain the growth necessary to meet business objectives.   Regardless of the number of order pickers added to the process, the quantity of orders eventually grows too large for the order pickers to keep up with.

Parallel picking, sometimes also referred to as zone picking, overcomes this problem by allowing the picker to focus on simply picking parts from an assigned zone, without concern for which order the part is destined. Once the parts are picked from a specific zone they are sent to a consolidation area to await the parts required from the other zones. Once parts from each zone arrive at consolidation, the complete order is sent to packing and shipping. Keeping a picker in an assigned zone decreases walk and search time and allows employees to spend more time picking, increasing productivity. Picking in a single zone also allows employees to become familiar with the technology associated with that zone, which in turn, allows them to make maximum use of the equipment.

When combined with inventory management software and pick-to-light technology, parallel picking can result in significant improvements in accuracy. Directing the picker to the exact location and cell of the part required could increase accuracy up to 99.9 percent. Parallel picking also offers organizations the flexibility to integrate technology, such as pick-to-light, in stages starting with high volume zones for an immediate improvement in accuracy.

The key to continued success is to review part locations monthly and move them to more appropriate zones as they change. Fast movers may become medium movers, and if they stay in the fast moving zone, the picking operation can lose efficiency. To maintain maximum picking efficiency it is important to review parts inventory on a continual basis.

 

 

Anderson Power Products Offers PowerMod HP Connector Series

Anderson Power Products (APP) offers its PowerMod HP (high power) series connector family, featuring touch-safe female housings, cable strain relief and integral positive latches. These safety features, combined with the ease of connector assembly, establish a new standard for cost effective high power connectors.

APP’s PowerMod HP Series is RoHS Compliant and rated up to 450 amps for appropriate applications at a 30 degrees C temperature rise. Using APP’s patented Sterling contact technology, the PowerMod HP offers low electrical resistance, provides a minimum of 500 mating cycles and is rated for circuit interruption (true hotplug). These connectors are IP 20 rated (touch safe) for user safety. The integral coding key provides further protection by allowing the user to configure unique mating of up to 6 individual connectors.

The connectors accommodate American wire sizes from #6 to 4/0 AWG and metric wires from 13.3 to 95mm². For additional reliability, an innovative cable strain relief kit that encompasses all applicable wire sizes is available as a product option. The unique latching system offers superior security and ergonomics as well as clear identification through its distinct blue buttons. PowerMod HP, offered in ten different connector housing types, including right angle, bus bar, panel mount and blindmate/float selections, delivers broad design flexibility for current and future high power interconnections.

 

 

 

Arpac Introduces New Stretch Wrapper

Arpac has introduced an improved stretch wrapper. The Electro-Wrap series automatic rotary tower stretch wrapper requires no pneumatic hookup. This reduces the total energy costs for the machine. It also reduces installation cost as no special pneumatic plumbing or air compressor is required. The machine combines automation and floor space optimization making it great for when you need to stretch wrap unstable pallet loads that are either too light or too heavy to rotate on a turntable wrapper. It wraps faster than a conventional turnable system and gives you flexibility to load the wrap zone with either a fork truck or pallet jack.

The material handler sets the pallet on the floor in front of the wrapper and activates the wrapping cycles from a remote lanyard. The Electro-Wrap series completes the job with the film carriage revolving around the stationary pallet load. Upon completion of the cycle, the system automatically clamps, cuts and wipes the film to the pallet. A safety sensor is included for instant stopping of the rotating film carriage arm. A robust swing arm drive system uses a slewing bearing design that ensures long life with minimal maintenance.

 

 

Women In Trucking Association Sets Vision & Elects New Officers

The Women In Trucking Association held a two-day strategic planning session to determine its future direction and to approve the appointment of its executive officers. Chairwoman Leigh Foxall welcomed new members to the board of directors, Chris Burruss, Truckload Carriers Association, Phyllis Cochran, Navistar, and Jan Hamblin, J. J. Keller and Associates Inc.  These directors join Foxall, Internet Truckstop; Marge Bailey, DriverFinder.net; Elisabeth Barna, American Trucking Associations Inc; Jeff Hammonds, Walmart; Maggie Peterson, YRCW; Mark Rousseau, Frito-Lay North America; Deb Whistler, FleetOwner Magazine. The board, under the direction of Ray Drake, UPS Central Region Public Affairs Manager, established the direction for the organization for the next 5 years during the strategic planning session. The mission statement was reviewed and activities were prioritized in alignment with the vision of the nonprofit corporation. Top priorities include offering a best practices white paper to avoid harassment issues in driving training situations, honor influential women in the trucking industry and encourage the employment of women in both supporting roles and driving positions in trucking.

Due to recent board changes, vacant executive committee roles were filled. Foxall continues to head the organization as chairwoman. Mark Rousseau was approved as vice chairman, Jeff Hammonds as treasurer and Jan Hamblin as secretary. Each of these terms extend through the remainder of the year and will be reviewed at the annual meeting in March 2011.

 

 

Raymond Technician Development Program Optimizes Technician Training

Service technicians for The Raymond Corporation and its authorized Sales and Service Centers are now trained through Raymond’s exclusive Technician Development Program. This program provides technicians with practical application training that enables them to immediately work out in the field, increasing productivity and uptime for the companies whose lift truck fleets they service. Through completing the modules of this program, technicians are prepared with optimal expertise and skill to minimize customer downtime for service.

The Raymond Technician Development Program was designed and developed with a team of service managers and Sales and Service Center trainers. The program includes three workshops:

1. Technical Primer to focus on foundational knowledge and skills.
2. Scheduled Maintenance to meet ongoing, regular maintenance procedures required for specific trucks.
3. Troubleshooting and Repair to perform diagnostics and repairs.

Each level uses an approach that allows participants to learn at their own pace through hands-on exercises, videos, reading and small group activities. At the end of each level, technicians must pass a test to receive certification and move on to the next level.

 

AME Announces Award Recipients at 2010 conference

The Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME) announced the 6 recipients of the 2010 Manufacturing Excellence Award. The awards, presented at AME’s 2010 International Excellence Inside Conference, signify high levels of excellence achieved and sustained during the past year. All award recipients recognized by AME have maintained global competitiveness throughout unstable economic conditions and continue to position their organizations as leaders during the economy’s recovery phase. AME’s Manufacturing Excellence Awards honor companies that demonstrate significant progress in their journeys toward enterprise excellence through continuous improvement over a three-year period. The following companies received this year’s award:

• DJ Orthopedics de Mexico; Tijuana, Mexico
• DJO, LLC; Vista, Calif.
• Parker Hannifin Hydraulic Filter Division; Metamora, Ohio
• Parker Hannifin Racor Division; Modesto, Calif.
• Plymouth Tube; West Monroe, La.
• TG Fluid Systems USA Inc.; Brighton, Mich.

 

HERC Enters Hawaii Market with Acquisition of Western Machinery

Hertz Equipment Rental Corp. has acquired Western Machinery, a leading rental company in Hawaii. Terms of the purchase were not disclosed. Western Machinery was founded in 1986 and headquartered in Kapolei, Oahu, with branches on Oahu, Hawaii and Maui. Western has a predominantly commercial customer base, and offers material and earthmoving equipment to customers in the industrial and government sectors. Western is also a dealer for Gradall, JLG, Bobcat, Liebherr, Linkbelt and Allied Hammers, and provides parts and service support to customers. In the past year and a half, HERC has aggressively pursued growth by acquisition and international expansion. In August of this year, it bought RentOne, an Italian power generation rental specialist; in July of this year it acquired 1^st Call Studio Equipment, Sylmar, Calif.; in February it entered into a joint venture to establish equipment rentals in Saudi Arabia; in July 2009, it acquired Irving Industrial Rental, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada; in April, 2009 it bought Rent One, a power generation rental company in Spain. HERC also established rental facilities in China.

 

CHEP Announces Intention to Acquire IFCO

Brambles Limited, the parent company of CHEP, announced the planned acquisition of IFCO SYSTEMS, NV, a leading provider of reusable plastic containers (RPCs) in 23 countries, and pallet management services in the U.S. The transaction will enhance Brambles’ position as a global leader in pooling solutions, creating an entity with sales revenue of approximately US$5 billion. The scale of the transaction requires review from the applicable regulatory authorities, as is common with transactions of this size and nature. During this period of review, expected to be completed within 9 months, both companies will continue to operate as separate entities. Once approved, the transaction would create an entity with sales revenue of approximately US$5 billion, of which more than US$4 billion would come from pooling and pallet services. The Brambles group would have more than 16,000 employees, working in 49 countries across 6 continents under the CHEP, IFCO, Recall, LeanLogistics and Unitpool brands.

 

SLT30/35AC- A DREXEL SOLUTION

The Drexel SLT30/35AC is a fork lift truck that operates in very-narrow-aisles (VNA).

• 3000 & 3500 lb. basic capacity units
• “EE” Construction Available
• Lift heights to 25 feet (other Drexel's with heights to 36 feet )
• Three Stage mast is standard, Quad masts are available
• Operates in standard over-the-road trailers
• Other Drexel units available 4000-12,000 lb. capacity

Drexel offers a 60% Space Savings vs. a standard forklift and at least 30 % vs. reach trucks- plus it works trailers!

Offering you the One Truck that can provide the

• Most Efficient Space and Operation
• All AC motors, and pumps for maximum performance
• Rack to Trailer - One Truck does it all!
• Wire-Guide & Rail Guide options available
• Freezer package -20 deg F is standard
• 9-10 hrs run time off single battery

With 48” x 40” loads, on 96” load beams, the SLT30 will work
54-56” clear aisles wire guided or 66” clear aisles unguided.

Need more information? – Just call yourlocal dealer, or Landoll at 800-428-5655

Landoll Corporation
Material Handling Division
Marysville Kansas
www.landoll.com/mhp

Cascade Introduces New Class IV K-Series Fork Positioners

The REVOLUTION Continues...  Introducing 120K, 150K and 165K Class IV K-Series Fork Positioners

I am pleased to announce the expansion of Cascade's K-Series Fork Positioners. New to the current line-up are the 120K, 150K and 165K Series Fork Positioners with capacity ranges from 12,000 lbs. - 16,500 lbs. The new K-Series Fork Positioners compliment the recently introduced Class IV F-Series Sideshifters and extend the capacity range of our exceptional K-Series line. The K-Series Fork Positioners have a proven track record and excellent specifications. To allow for use on trucks having only one function we have two economical hydraulic options: a sequence valve which permits fork positioning at the end of the sideshift stroke, or radio frequency hydraulic control.   Why a K-Series Fork Positioner? Improve Operator Safety: Avoid driver back strain and injuries related to manually moving forks on the lift truck. Increase Productivity: Eliminate the need for the driver to have to get on and off the truck to manually move the forks. Reduce Damage: Allow the driver to accurately position the forks from his seat for handling a variety of pallet sizes.

Midterm Vote Results Impact Material Handling

News Source: MHEDA Journal
Story Found By: Beth O.

This year's midterm election results will potentially have a far-reaching impact on every industry. The material handling industry is no different. From changes to the supply chain to a difference in environmental thinking from the past four years, a new Congress will play a role in the industry for the foreseeable future. Many MHEDA distributors we interviewed for the 2011 Industry Forecast felt that the results of the election could be the most important factor in the industry and economy improving. So how will the new Congress impact MHEDA companies? A couple of possible examples are below.

Environmental Regulations

The climate bill that passed through the House of Representatives in 2009 could be in serious jeopardy. H.R. 2454, American Clean Energy And Security Act of 2009, passed through the House on June 26, 2009, by a 219 to 212 mark but never reached the Senate due to fear of a Republican filibuster. The goal of the bill was to reduce greenhouse gases in the United States to 17 percent below 2005 levels by 2020, and 83 percent by 2050. On page 123 of the 743 page bill, the material handling industry was specifically named in a section assessment of electric motors and the electric motor market: "Characterize and estimate the opportunities for improvement in the energy efficiency of motor systems by market segment including opportunities for expanded use of process control, pumps, compressors, fans or blowers and material handling components." The passage was very contentious, especially along party lines. Of the 219 votes to support the bill, 211 of them were Democrats. The midterm saw the Republicans take control of the House and ensured that any bill that passes through the House would need far more than eight Republican votes to succeed.

The major divisive issue in the bill is the cap-and-trade system that sets a limit on overall emissions of heat-trapping gases. Republican and Democratic opponents of the bill claim that the legislation would raise costs for American companies that companies outside of the United States would not incur. "I don't deny the fact that we need to clean up carbon emissions, but the approach is questionable," says Richard Sinclair, president/CEO of Jefferds Corporation (St. Albans, WV). "Our economy is going to suffer, we're really not going to make a marked difference in the environmental construction of the world, and it's going to put a lot of West Virginians out of work. That's not going to help my business."

At the time of its passage, Republicans dismissed the bill as a national energy tax. "No matter how you doctor it or tailor it it is a tax," said Representative Joe Pitts (R-PA). Republicans predicted on the day of the bill's passage that it would be a measure Democrats would pay for in 2010.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB), which often sets the standard for the remainder of the country, proposed a similar law—recently delayed due to miscalculation of pollution levels—that would vastly reduce carbon levels in the state. The regulation, called the "In-Use Off-Road Diesel Vehicle Regulation," was adopted in July 2007 as part of California AB32. It aims to cut the amount of emissions released by diesel vehicles that aren't operated on roads and highways, such as forklifts, cranes, bulldozers and dump trucks. Peter Lauder, president of McCombs-Wall, (Orange, CA) believes such legislation deters people from doing business in California. "Our biggest challenges are regulations, government spending, EPA requirements and restrictions. It's everything you can think of that would discourage a business from investing in California. If we don't make some changes in the government I don't see any quick resolution of these significant problems."

In the midterm election, Californians were given the option to vote down AB32 by voting for Proposition 23. Proposition 23 was defeated. However, proponents of the measure are challenging that vote because of what they claim was prejudiced wording on the ballot. A Sacramento Supreme Court judge ruled that the ballot must refer to "major sources of emissions" rather than "major polluters" as it was originally written. However, Fresno County did not make the change to the ballot in time. CARB aims to complete work on another enforcement extension during a December 16-17 meeting. If passed, this regulation could damage internal combustion forklifts' position in the marketplace and negatively impact sales of used forklifts. "When customers do replace equipment, they tend to go more electric now. We've seen a drop in our used equipment sales with those that have fleets of four or more trucks because they've got to buy late-model units to comply," says Jay Waugh, president of Gray Lift (Fresno, CA), said in a previous article on the subject. And it's not just California who should be paying attention, says Patrick Stemper, vice president/general manager of Badger ToyotaLift (New Berlin, WI). "EPA basically follows CARB's lead, so it's only a matter of time before those regulations are in place in some form throughout the country."

Taxes

Another hot-button issue leading up to the election was the possible expiration of the Bush tax cuts, set to run out at the end of the year. Business leaders were hesitant to plan and make forecasts for next year because they felt that elected officials weren't providing direction as to how they should prepare to do business next year. "It's amateur hour in Washington," says Cliff Anglewicz, CEO of Yes Equipment and Services Inc. and its JCB division, in an interview given to The Columbus Dispatch.  "They keep talking about jobs, jobs, jobs. They have no empathy for what it takes to hire people and what it takes to pay for all the benefits and the taxes and what little bit is left over for the person who takes the risk."

Another major factor companies must consider is how the new healthcare legislation will impact costs. Economist Barry Asmus, who will address the 2011 MHEDA Convention in May, says, "I recently spoke to the governor of Arizona, who said the health care reform bill will mean Armageddon for the state of Arizona. It's going to drive Medicare through the roof and there is already a tremendous unfunded liability." Whether that will actually happen remains to be seen. But with the House of Representatives no longer in Democratic control, changes to the health care legislation may be forthcoming.

Whether somebody identifies themselves as a Republican, Democrat or Moderate, it is undeniable that the 2010 midterm results will impact the business climate in a significant way. How will MHEDA companies be affected?

Read the full article at: Midterm Vote Results Impact Material Handling from The Mheda Journal

Trelleborg Relocates Headquarters

News Source: MHEDA Journal
Story Found By: Tony Q.

Trelleborg Wheel Systems moved its North American headquarters and distribution center from Hartville to Fairlawn, OH. The move gives space for expansion, greater warehouse capacity and more efficient logistics. "Our company is continuing to grow and we need a location that is convenient to our valued customers and employees. The relocation of the distribution center will allow us to inventory additional products and better serve our dealers," says Ydo Doornbos, managing director of Trelleborg Wheel Systems Americas. "The close proximity of the new offices and warehouse to our previous location means that all our valued employees will have the opportunity of moving with us."

Read the full article at: Trelleborg Relocates Headquarters from The Mheda Journal

Springer Appoints O’Leary

News Source: MHEDA Journal
Story Found By: Tony Q.

Springer Equipment Company appointed Timothy K. O'Leary as senior capital sales executive. O'Leary has 20 years of industry experience, with extensive factory training and sales experience.

Read the full article at: Springer Appoints O'Leary from The Mheda Journal

Bender Joins Wholesale Material Handling

News Source: MHEDA Journal
Story Found By: Samuel F.

Wholesale Material Handling, a Naumann/Hobbs company, hired Dean Bender as general manager. Bender comes to the company with nearly 20 years of industry experience, having previously been general manager at Andersen Rack Systems and Lodi Metal Tech. Wholesale Material Handling was purchased by Naumann/Hobbs in 2008.

Read the full article at: Bender Joins Wholesale Material Handling from The Mheda Journal

NMHG Adds Over 400 Employees

NACCO Materials Handling Group, the makers of Yale and Hyster lift trucks, announced the addition of 401 workers at 4 different locations. In addition to adding workers, NMHG is adding third shifts to certain areas and assembly plants in Berea, KY, and Greenville, NC. The company is also starting up second shifts in painting and select assembly lines to meet expected ongoing demand and reduce lead times. "We've been waiting for this day for quite some time," says Jonathan Dawley, VP of marketing at NMHG. "Thanks to great leadership, preparation and the hard work of our employees, we were able to weather this recession and position ourselves to respond to the economic rebound. We're very happy to play our part in putting Americans back to work."

Read the full article at: NMHG Adds Over 400 Employees from The Mheda Journal