New crane system for advanced automation supplier
Three 5-ton capacity overhead cranes have been installed at a JR Automation / Setpoint facility where the design, engineering, and integration of robotic systems and custom amusement attractions occurs. Overhead crane and hoist manufacturer R&M Materials Handling Inc. and its distributor Hoj Innovations, of Salt Lake City, UT combined to deliver a solution for a recent expansion project. Application At the Ogden, UT facility, JR Automation / Setpoint uses a variety of material handling equipment as part of their everyday production. JR Automation / Setpoint designs, builds and integrates advanced automation solutions for automotive, aerospace, energy, and other industrial customers throughout the world. Think of the scale of construction required to manufacture and install these systems, and the levels of safety necessary to serve the industry. JR Automation / Setpoint is at the center of this exciting sector and relies on state-of-the-art cranes and hoists to meet the ever-increasing demands of customers like Universal Studios, Disney, Target, and Amazon. Challenge Jerry LeBaron, Sr. Engineering Projects Manager at Hoj Innovations, explained that JR Automation / Setpoint arrived at a need for additional cranes due to increasing workload projections and the lifting requirements involved. Steve Schultz, Facilities & Safety Manager at JR Automation / Setpoint, added that the cranes were required to support increasing production and to provide reliable lifting and positioning of heavy materials that were safer and more efficient than alternative methods and technologies. Two cranes were to be installed on a new, 260 ft.-long runway, which was also part of the contract, and one on an existing runway at the site. Solution Hoj Innovations has worked with JR Automation / Setpoint in the past. Hoj has been a long-time provider of service and support on the facility’s material handling equipment and as a supplier and integrator of conveyor systems utilized on previous projects. For this specific project, 5-ton capacity top-running, single-girder crane kits were provided by R&M Materials Handling Inc. and installed by its distributor, Hoj Innovations. The cranes, which span 47 ft. 9 in. and offer 21 ft. of lift, feature R&M’s SX low-headroom wire rope hoists, which help to maximize the lifting height of each system. Kimberly Cromwell, Regional Sales Manager at R&M, stated that Hoj Innovations chose to incorporate R&M modular crane kits for the project not only because they were able to reduce the overall cost to the customer due to to the efficiency of the assembly and installation of the crane components, but they also knew that JR Automation / Setpoint would appreciate the superior quality of the equipment and the extreme ease of use of the overall crane systems. Results In July 2021, three new cranes were installed by Hoj Innovations in the facility—two on the new runway and one on an existing runway. Schultz said that the overhead cranes can travel in narrow aisles or corridors and can move in multiple directions. This enables the efficient movement of materials through spaces that are too small for floor-based movers, such as forklifts. Hoj Innovations also provided operator training and after-sales support as part of the three-crane project. The cranes span 47 ft. 9 in. and offer 21 ft. of lift. The cranes feature R&M’s SX low-headroom wire rope hoists, which help to maximize the lifting height of each system. Hoj Innovations provided operator training and after-sales support as part of the three-crane project. 5-ton capacity top-running, single-girder crane kits were provided by R&M Materials Handling Inc.
Gorbel® CEO Brian Reh appointed Vice President of MHI
The leading association for handling, supply chain, and logistics appoints Gorbel® CEO to help shape its strategic vision Gorbel® Inc., a provider in overhead material handling, ergonomic lifting, and industrial fall protection, is excited to announce that Gorbel CEO Brian Reh has recently been elected to serve as Vice President of MHI, the nation’s largest material handling, supply chain, and logistics organization. In this role, Reh will be a vital part of solidifying the organization as the authoritative resource for material handling. Reh has been involved at MHI in various capacities for more than 15 years and has been a key participant in recent initiatives to set the direction for the organization. Reh and Gorbel® are key members of MHI industry groups that focus on overhead lifting and ergonomics. MHI members produce products and solutions ranging from mobile automation to storage equipment. MHI has a commitment to building supply chains that make the world work. To achieve this, the association delivers up-to-date knowledge, close professional connections, and top industry leadership, alongside the best market access for manufacturing and supply chain professionals. “MHI and Gorbel® share a commitment to sustaining the invisible force that connects everything, that is, supply chains,” affirms Reh. “Even in times of disruption,” he adds, “it is crucial that these supply chains run smoothly and successfully to keep critical goods flowing fast and freely. At MHI and Gorbel, we make sustaining supply chains our mission.”
Lift-O-Flex
Westminster Hydraulics is now a Merlo dealer
Westminster Hydraulics in Taneytown, Maryland is now a Merlo dealer. Mid-Atlantic area businesses needing truck-mounted equipment, liftgates, cranes, and attachments know to call upon Westminster Hydraulics. Now, Westminster supplies Merlo telehandlers and Rotos to the Mid Atlantic market. “Bringing on the Merlo product line further expands our ability to adapt to customer needs,” said Michele L. Cooney, Westminster Hydraulics Vice President. “We did our research to find a line that complements our existing offerings. The Merlo Roto is a strong, quality-driven option for material handling equipment, in both the arbor and construction sectors, that will help us serve our expanding market.” “Westminster is a stellar company that understands its market and the customers within that market,” said Brian Hatch, AMS-Merlo Territory Manager. “The Merlo Roto fits well with their market plan.” Over the years, Westminster’s small and nimble team of highly skilled individuals has grown the company to expand its offerings to include everything from fabricating & upfitting, to service, parts, and sales. “Our Team”, Cooney said “is our work family. We aim to create an environment and provide meaningful benefits that show how much we value their dedication.” This caring for the employee carries over to caring for the customer. “We take great pride in providing a level of customization, craftsmanship, and commitment to quality that is distinct in our builds. Cooney added. “Merlo Rotos fit this commitment. We provide honest guidance and reliable support to all our customers.” “With the Merlo Roto, tree care businesses can create a complete package of rotating telehandlers with grapple saw. Hatch said. “And, their construction and utility customers now have another option for safe, material handling at height.”
Caldwell Moon Lander Transporter tested, moved to Houston
A customized 2,500-lb. capacity transport cradle for a lunar lander, manufactured by The Caldwell Group Inc., has arrived in Houston. There, Intuitive Machines will complete the next stage of testing before the lander, Nova-C, will be sent to the Moon. When complete, the lander requires highly customized transportation to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center (KS) in Cape Canaveral, Florida, where it will be launched by a Spacex Falcon 9 rocket. The short and long base assemblies designed by Caldwell, delivered by distributor Kennedy Wire Rope & Sling Company Inc., meet Nova-C’s requirements for safe transport. Prior to sending the first cradle onto the next stage of the process, an in-person inspection by Greg Vajdos, integrated test, and verification lead at Intuitive Machines; Brian Johnson, senior mechanical design lead, CSWPA at Iron Ring Technologies; and Dan Mongan, senior sales engineer/project leader at Caldwell had to be completed. The general review of the product before shipment took place in late March at Caldwell’s facility in Rockford, Illinois, only once Mongan had overseen the final stages of polishing. He explained that a final inspection was necessary to make sure that the product left the facility to complete customer satisfaction. It was signed off and boarded a dedicated truck for the trip to Houston. “Nova-C is Intuitive Machines’ opportunity to return the United States to the surface of the Moon for the first time since Apollo 17 in 1972,” said Vajdos. “The Caldwell stand is an essential piece to accomplishing our mission and we’re confident that Nova-C will be safely transported to KSC for launch.” Next, Intuitive Machines will use a “Nova-C mass simulator” to load test and rehearse loading, unloading, and rotation operations. This test will provide complete assurance that the cradle will serve its purpose on the final trip to Florida. Mongan will be in Houston for that process. Chris Berland, of RiggRep, a manufacturer’s representative for Caldwell, has been involved with the project from the outset, making initial site visits to Intuitive Machines, upon consultation with Vajdos. He recalled: “Greg and I had the initial, exploratory discussions of how to safely lift, manipulate, and transport the lunar lander between three different locations—their facility, the Spacex site in Florida, and the test site.” A program was planned that started with the equipment that was required at each location (e.g., overhead cranes, hoists, overhead clearance, mobile cranes, forklifts, rigging, etc.) and the potential restrictions or limitations (e.g., bay door dimensions, DOT specifications, timeframe, budgets). However, the “elephant in the room,” as Berland called it, was that there was no standard piece of equipment that could safely lift, manipulate, and transport the lunar lander. Berland continued: “I showed Greg a standard Caldwell coil upender to discuss the functionality, and this led to a napkin sketch of the first concept of what an upending, transport cradle for a lunar lander might look like. This information was conveyed to Dan, and this is where the talented engineers from both Caldwell and Intuitive took the wheel and began having the first of many discussions on how to bring the project to life.” “Caldwell’s on-time delivery of Intuitive Machines’ lunar lander transport cradle affords us the time needed to test and rehearse loading and unloading procedures,” said Vajdos. “From design to delivery, the collaboration between Intuitive Machines and Caldwell will ensure Nova-C is transported from Houston to Cape Canaveral safely before launching to the Moon.” RiggRep’s Berland said: “The nature of the product and its ultimate destination certainly made this project unique. It’s not too often we have a looming ‘launch date’ to deal with in our world, but we enjoyed both the challenges and the opportunity. We’re excited to view the equipment in action. It was an honor to be approached to assist with this project. It speaks volumes about Caldwell’s reputation and ability to offer creative solutions for challenging applications. The project was both meaningful and interesting, and I am confident to say everyone involved learned something. The can-do attitude of Caldwell is contagious—and I am proud to be part of the team.” Left to right: Brian Johnson, senior mechanical design lead, CSWPA at Iron Ring Technologies; Greg Vajdos, integrated test, and verification lead at Intuitive Machines; and Dan Mongan, senior sales engineer / project leader at Caldwell. The customized 2,500-lb. capacity transport cradle has arrived in Houston.
JLG Financial® expands Retail Lending Program
JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company and global manufacturer of mobile elevating work platforms and telehandlers, announces the growth of its JLG Financial® retail lending program, now available to an expanded range of equipment buyers, including end-users and contractors, as well as rental houses and equipment distributors, in the United States and Canada. The program offers financing for purchases of $3,000 or more on new or used equipment (most makes and models, including competitive brands, reconditioned and certified equipment), attachments, accessories, and parts. “When the original retail lending program launched in Fall 2018, it was available exclusively through rental companies and equipment distributors in the U.S. to support their customers’ purchases,” says Jonathan Oris, JLG finance manager. “Since then, the program has grown significantly, including the addition of Canadian lending in 2019. Today, the program has evolved to offer various financing options, with industry-leading rates directly to customers in North America. To date, we’ve processed 1,850 applications for over 100 brands of equipment and 250+ unique equipment models and attachments (new and used). Those applications have resulted in the funding of more than $100 million, enabling customers to acquire the new and/or used equipment needed to run their business.” With the expanded retail lending program, Oris says, business owners and end-users can directly apply for financing through JLG Financial via a simple online application. Once an application is submitted for approval, customers can get credit decisions via text, email, or phone in 90 minutes or less in most cases. He adds, that JLG Financial also achieves industry-leading approval ratios by working with multiple lending partners, including LEAF Commercial Capital, Inc. (LEAF) in the U.S. and CWB National Leasing in Canada. Once approved, the JLG Financial lending team works to customize financing options and tailor payment structures, including balloon, seasonal, or skip payments, as well as loans, leases or lines of credit, buy-outs, and step-up/step-down opportunities, to best fit each customer’s unique business needs. Since no two customers are the same, no two financing packages through JLG Financial will be the same. “Our customers aren’t just names and numbers in our system,” explains Oris. “We get to know them and take the time to understand their business. We learn about the equipment they need and recognize how important these assets will be on their project sites. Gaining this deeper level of insight allows us to custom-build a package for each customer that includes competitive interest rates, financing, and terms.” It is an unpredictable lending market right now, with interest rates going up nearly every day. “To help our customers get the best rates possible for their purchases, JLG Financial locks rates in for 30 days, publishing a fixed monthly rate card,” says Oris. JLG Financial also offers subsidized rates on purchases of new JLG® and SkyTrak® equipment models. “Equipment financing doesn’t have to take a long time or be overly complex, especially when customers are ready to make a purchase. Financing retail purchases with JLG Financial is a great way for business owners to acquire the equipment they need while staying financially flexible,” concludes Oris. For additional information on this program, download the JLG Financial retail lending resource guide here. To get a quote or start the application process, U.S. customers can click here. Customers in Canada can click here.
OZ Lifting launches Dynamometer Lever Hoist
OZ Lifting Products has launched a third lever hoist range—Dyno-Hoist, a dynamometer-equipped product with 0.75 to 9 tons capacity. The Winona, Minnesota-based manufacturer is the first to bring a lever hoist that includes a dynamometer to the North American market. It is available in 0.75, 1.5, 3, 6, and 9 tons capacity, matching the ranges of the company’s industrial and premium (overload protected) lever hoist offerings. Dyno-Hoist, named by Richard Miller, sales manager, gives users a real-time reading of the load (in kilograms or pounds) they are applying to the hoist, whether it be lifting or pulling application. An overload alert is triggered at 126%; the American Society of Mechanical Engineers requires that when a hoist is repaired or recertified, it gets tested at 125% of the rated capacity. OZ Lifting wanted to be sure that the hoist could be tested to that capacity without timing out. Against best practice advice, users could operate it beyond that point, but they would have no knowledge of the load being applied. Steve Napieralski, president at OZ Lifting, said: “There is nothing out there in the marketplace like this hoist. I don’t think there is a specific market for it, but we recently displayed it at two industrial trade shows and there was specific interest from the aviation industry, as they must tension parts for testing and need to know the exact weight. It will be useful in any application where you need to know the weight of the load being applied to the hoist. Where you would have previously needed to use a shackle, dynamometer, and hoist, with Dyno-Hoist, you gain a significant amount of headroom because the load cell is an integral part of the unit.” OZ Lifting’s industrial line of lever hoists already offers a good choice if users know the weight of the load. The premium line, meanwhile, is based on the same hoist but has overload protection. This has proved useful if the load weight is unknown, as the overload protection will activate at approximately 50% above the load rating. Notably, Dyno-Hoist’s dynamometer fitting itself can retrofit to either of the industrial or premium lever hoists. If a user has one of those models, they can purchase the load cell and complete the installation. The net weight of the units (head only), is 16.5, 27.94, 45.1, 66, and 96.80 lbs. in order of capacity, while the effort to lift the safe working load (SWL) in each instance is 31.4, 49.5, 72, 76.5, and 81 lbs. The first three models in the range have one fall of chain and the 6 and 9 tons versions, two and three falls respectively. Other features include all-steel construction; steel handle with rubber grip; zinc-plated load chain; forged alloy steel hooks; and fully-enclosed gearing. Dyno-Hoist meets or exceeds CE, ASME B30.21, and AS 1418.2 standards. Standard AA batteries offer a run time of 150 hours, but the product can be plugged into a 115/1/60 outlet. Each hoist is load tested and arrives with a test certificate, one-year warranty, and a free set of latches. OZ Lifting will show a variety of davit cranes, hoists, and lifting components at this month’s Associated Wire Rope Fabricators (AWRF) Product Information Exhibition (PIE), which takes place at the Marriott Marquis Houston.
Sunstate Equipment ups Krause to COO
Sunstate Equipment has announced the appointment of Bob Krause as their new Chief Operating Officer. A long-time industry veteran, Krause will now lead General Rental and Trench Division Operations, Sales and Marketing, and Business Excellence. Headquartered in Phoenix, Ariz., Sunstate currently has 93 locations throughout fifteen states, with accelerated growth on the horizon. “As Sunstate continues our ongoing evolution from a small mom-and-pop rental company in the desert, opened back in 1977, to a leading national equipment rental supplier, internationally recognized for our world-class customer service,” said Chris Watts, Sunstate Equipment President and CEO, “we are pleased to have Bob step into this role. In the two years, he’s been with us, his depth and breadth of rental experience have been a tremendous asset and will greatly complement the next phase of our growth.” Krause joined Sunstate Equipment in 2020 as Vice President of Business Excellence, where he invested his time learning as much as he could about Sunstate’s rich history, core values, and culture, all of which were fundamental in Krause’s decision to accept the position. “It was immediately clear to me that Sunstate was a company where our shared values aligned,” Krause recalled of his first meeting with Watts. “I already knew about the strong reputation that Sunstate had in the marketplace, but I was not aware of how strong and good the culture was until I met Chris.” Sunstate’s position in the industry has been long-established as one that puts people first, nurturing a culture that empowers employees to provide best-in-class rental solutions to their business partners. Upholding their unique total team approach is paramount to Sunstate’s long-term growth plans as they continue expanding into new markets and specialized industry sectors. “Bob’s personal and professional values align perfectly with our people-first culture,” said Watts. “This ensures that as we continue to grow and evolve, we will always remain true to the most basic of principles that have brought us the success we have enjoyed for the past 45 years.” Krause brings thirty-seven years of rental experience to the role, including top positions with Blueline Equipment Rental (Corporate Vice President of Business Excellence), United Rentals (Regional Vice President – western United States, Alaska, western Canada), and HERC, where he first cut his teeth in the industry as an Inside Sales Rep to learn the business from the ground up after earning a degree in Construction Management from North Dakota State University. “I am extremely honored and humbled at the opportunity to become the Chief Operating Officer of Sunstate Equipment,” Krause said. “I look forward to working with the entire Sunstate team as we continue to grow our business, maintain our extraordinary culture, and promote our brand by providing exceptional customer service across the markets that we serve.”
Wolter, Inc. acquires Crane & Hoist Service Company in Dayton, Ohio
Valley Industrial Crane is a crane and hoist service provider, founded by Vic Slemker in 2002. Whether a one-ton monorail or a forty-ton steel warehouse crane system, Valley Industrial helps customers with a variety of resources including 24-hour service, maintenance, inspections, and turnkey installation. Wolter, Inc. has announced its acquisition of Valley Industrial Crane, located in Dayton, Ohio, marking Wolter’s 13th acquisition in the last 10 years, as well as the company’s 17th location. For Wolter, this acquisition adds a new layer of crane and hoist support and expertise to its existing Crane & Hoist business group, located in Louisville, Kentucky (formerly Bohnert Equipment Company). Moving forward, the Valley Industrial Crane team, including Owner Vic Slemker, will operate as usual, providing the same services to current and new customers under the Wolter name. “This new partnership is a great fit for Wolter’s existing crane and hoist sales and services. The Valley Industrial Crane team shares the same commitment to safety and continuous efforts to enhance productivity through a variety of solutions. We couldn’t ask for a better fit and are excited to grow this segment of the business.” – Jerry Weidmann, Wolter, Inc. president
Ara Eckel named Director of Product Management for Connected Solutions Platform
JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company and a global manufacturer of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and telehandlers, has announced that Ara Eckel has been named director of product management for the company’s connected solutions platform team. In this role, Eckel is tasked with driving the connected channel strategy. Job site connectivity is an important trend in the construction industry today, and JLG’s connected solutions platform team works to develop cutting-edge digital technologies, that when used with JLG® mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and telehandlers, improve the overall value of the company’s products. The team’s product portfolio today includes a number of connected assets, including the JLG Augmented Reality and Mobile Control Apps, which include features like the new Bluetooth® Enabled Analyzer & Analyzer Reader and Advanced Battery Monitoring System, as well as ClearSky® telematics with Access Control functionality, 3-D Interactive Schematics, a BIM library, SkySense electronic detection system and AccessReady Fusion XR™ virtual reality training simulators. “One of the biggest responsibilities JLG has as a leading global equipment manufacturer is to truly understand the needs of users — what they expect from the machine and how they want to interact with the equipment,” says Eckel. “The goal of our team is not only to demonstrate that we can deliver real-world job site value today, but that we also want to grow that value over time through technological advancements that create intuitive, engaging, and interactive connected experiences.” According to Eckel, JLG’s current connected solutions products only scratch the surface of what’s to come. “The sky is the limit for expanding the use of connected technologies. As we work to advance today’s connected job sites and tomorrow’s connected cities, we are focused on the customer. Anything we introduce is intended to make their work easier and their equipment more efficient,” he finishes. Eckel moved into this new role in Fall 2021. Prior to joining JLG, Eckel’s work experience included various sales, marketing, and technical product roles at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, General Motors, Meltwater Group, and Apple Inc. He is a graduate of Ithaca College and holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University. JLG’s team of product directors includes Eckel, Bob Begley, Daliborka (Dali) Ribeiro, and Nate Hoover. This team’s primary focus is on elevating the company’s product strategy across three pillars: Safety, Productivity and Technology.
JLG® Low-Level Access Lifts now available for purchase online
Offering a convenient way for companies looking to replace ladders and scaffolding with products that provide a safer way to work at height JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company and a global manufacturer of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and telehandlers, now offers its human-powered EcoLift™ 50 and EcoLift 70 low-level access lifts, as well as its push-around 830P and 1030P models, for retail sale through its Online Express e-commerce platform. For safety-conscious companies committed to decreasing ladder-related injuries and fatalities, these machines offer an alternative to ladders and scaffolding to complete interior maintenance, facility management and fit-out and finish work. According to Jennifer Stiansen, JLG’s director of marketing, JLG expanded its product line into the low-level access category in 2008 to provide people with a safer way to work at heights below 20-ft. “Today, we offer products in this category with platform heights ranging from 4-ft 11-in to 13-ft 3-in and working heights from 10-ft 11-in to 19-ft 3-in. And, all models weigh less than 1,000-lbs,” says Stiansen, “which makes them suitable for use on sensitive flooring and able to be pushed or rolled into place and between work areas, with no assembly or disassembly required.” In addition to the productivity features and benefits low-level access lifts offer, Stiansen says that these machines are designed to reduce strain on the body and lessen the risk of musculoskeletal injuries caused by repetitive movements associated with climbing up and down a ladder with tools and materials, then extending to reach the work area while maintaining three points of contact. “JLG’s low-level access lifts offer the user a 360-degree range of motion and the use of both hands while working from a spacious platform, which reduces the risk of fatigue-related slips, trips, and falls,” she adds. As the adoption curve for low-level access products continues to accelerate and their use as a replacement for ladders and scaffolding becomes more frequent, Stiansen says that requests regarding where and how to purchase these lifts have become more common. “To streamline the buying process and further our company’s ladders last philosophy, JLG has made these products available for purchase and direct shipment to customers through Online Express using a simple ‘Buy Now’ button from a desktop computer or mobile device,” she says. JLG’s Online Express is an online retail site that has traditionally provided users with the ability to shop for parts, accessories and attachments by equipment serial number, part number, or via a description. Today, consumers now have the convenience of buying the company’s low-level access products through this same platform. “With today’s around-the-clock, on-demand buying environment, both B2B and B2C customers have come to expect organizations to offer the same seamless buying experience as leading online retailers. Having the 24/7 convenience to order what they need, when they need it, is now table stakes when it comes to e-commerce,” finishes Stiansen. To learn more about JLG’s line of push-around and human-powered low-level access lifts, click here. Ready to make a purchase? Visit Online Express and click “Buy Now.”
ALL Crane promotes two
Crane rental leader names new Ohio Sales Manager and GM of ALT Sales, says goodbye to retiring longtime legend A well-deserved retirement is prompting a new round of promotions from within the ALL Family of Companies, which is known for the remarkable stability of its leadership team. Josh Bacci has been named the new Ohio Sales Manager for ALL Erection & Sales Corp. Bacci’s name is already well known to ALL customers, as he previously served as general manager of ALT Sales Corp., the boom truck arm of ALL. Bacci began his career with the ALL Family of Companies in 2005 and has served in many roles in operations and sales. In his new role, Bacci will oversee sales teams in Cleveland (including the company’s flagship yard), Columbus, and Jeffers’ Toledo and Lima branches. He will continue to work with branch leaders and sales teams to continue the company’s legacy of outstanding customer service. Bacci’s promotion follows the retirement of ALL legend Norm Rados. Rados started with ALL in 1978, first as an oiler and then as an operator, working primarily on a contract basis with local steel mills. Norm combined years in the seat and exacting lift planning with a natural business sense and an easy-going way of forging relationships. This made him an ideal candidate to tap for, first, a local rental/sales specialist position in 1994, and soon after, as the company’s first dedicated sales manager. Bacci will work alongside Rados through March to ensure a seamless transition. “The career that Norm carved out with ALL speaks for itself,” said Michael L. Liptak, CEO and president of ALL. “He has brought clear vision and a steady hand to his work — work that has helped our company thrive. We wish him well in retirement and know the position is in good hands with Josh Bacci.” Bacci’s promotion, of course, creates a vacancy at ALT. The company is proud to announce Josh Doyle has been promoted to general manager at ALT Sales Corp. Doyle is a seasoned sales executive with experience spanning several industries including information technology and the service industry along with heavy equipment sales. He has been in sales with ALL since 2019. With his sales background and proven track record, he is a worthy successor to lead ALT Sales.
JLG captures two category wins at 2022 IAPA awards
JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company and leading global manufacturer of mobile elevating working platforms and telehandlers, is pleased to announce it has won two 2022 IAPA Awards. The company was shortlisted for both awards earlier this year in the “Product of the Year” categories — for its DaVinci® all-electric scissor lift and 670SJ self-leveling boom lift. Karel Huijser, JLG’s general manager and vice president in the EMEA region, commented; “We are extremely proud to receive this level of recognition from our peers in the industry. Our company was born from a single vision: ‘To provide people with a safer way to work at height.’ Since 1969, we have continued to innovate in the spirit of this vision, bringing to market the products and technologies that drive the access industry forward.” WINNER: 670SJ Self-Leveling Boom – Product of the Year Boom Lift category The JLG® 670SJ self-leveling boom lift is a first of its kind that is changing the way people work at height. Equipped with JLG’s exclusive and patented self-leveling technology, the 670SJ is engineered to automatically adapt to terrain on slopes up to 10-degrees in any direction, while driving with full functionality at a class-leading 67-ft platform height. The machine offers a 73-ft work height, 57-ft horizontal reach, and 550-lb unrestricted/750-lb restricted capacity. The 670SJ’s self-leveling technology is designed to adjust the boom lift’s chassis to the ground conditions — rather than having to adjust the ground conditions to the machine. This allows the 670SJ to navigate uneven terrain while driving at height from one job to the other without lowering the boom, for greater productivity. The 670SJ boasts three operating modes to maximize transportability on-site or on the road. Self-leveling mode enables the machine to work at full height, with full functionality, on slopes up to 10-degrees. Travel mode can be used when the boom is stowed to move across the job site at a faster rate of speed. And shipping mode allows the entire machine to be lowered once in position on a truck, reducing its travel height. All of these features are made possible through the machine’s advanced control system. This system continuously receives performance data from various sensors on the machine, then displays the information through a digital display and selectable screen interface in the platform during operation, helping users understand what’s happening at ground level while working at height. JLG’s self-leveling technology offers a host of benefits for machine operators and their support crews, including reducing (and in some cases eliminating) the prep work required to level the work area. That means no more pre-grading the site or constructing laborious cribbing before work can begin. The 670SJ also eliminates the trial and effort of repositioning a boom lift to find a level work area. This helps operators get into position and up to the work area quicker, maximizes reach capabilities, and reduces the need for larger, higher reaching lifts onsite as a backup for added reach when uneven ground conditions exist. WINNER: DaVinci AE1932 Lift – Product of the Year Scissor Lift Category The DaVinci AE1932 scissor lift features zero hydraulics to help eliminate job site leaks and zero emissions to help control job site pollution. Every component on the DaVinci lift is fully optimized, including the control, lift, drive, and steering systems, to reduce the machine’s energy consumption by up to 70% as compared to a traditional 19-ft scissor lift. This reduced energy consumption allows for the use of a single, lithium-ion battery that can last up to 10-years. The DaVinci lift uses a distributed architecture where the lift, drive, and steer systems are connected independently, helping reduce voltage drops and latency, while enabling the control system to connect to and communicate with each directly. Because the control system is fully connected to the entire machine, the DaVinci scissor lift can transmit data back to operators, fleet managers,er and service technicians via Bluetooth and cellular networks. This sets the stage for new features like the DaVinciGo app. This app provides real-time machine health and battery status information, as well as the ability for service technicians to perform remote diagnostics and push over-the-air software updates. The drive system has permanent magnets which generate torque and create motion to spin the motor. It is estimated that permanent magnet performance can on average increase the efficiency of a motor by up to 20-30%. Motors with permanent magnets have a long life and require zero serviceability. For smooth operation, the independent controllers of the steering system are designed to help reduce tire scrubbing on job sites, which helps control tire wear and limits damage to sensitive flooring. The AE1932’s steering system allows operators to maneuver the machine into and around, narrow-access and space-restricted areas to get work done where it’s needed. The lift system is designed with an electromechanical lift actuator, replacing the more traditional hydraulic cylinder design. Since there are no hydraulics, the AE1932 does not leak, which means it can be used without leak protection. This system is also engineered to recover energy as the platform descends, sending it back to the battery to help maximize use between charges. The DaVinci lift can be fully charged in as little as 3-1/2 hours and opportunity charged in 5 minutes or less for 100-ft of drive, plus enough torque for loading. The AE1932 has a 4-mph travel speed, which is up to 2x faster than a traditional scissor lift, along with an indoor/outdoor 606-lb capacity rating. A progressive elevated drive speed feature slows the unit down as it elevates, instead of defaulting to 0.5 mph like a standard scissor lift. The machine has a compact footprint, weighs 3,450-lb, and offers 25% gradeability. It comes standard with JLG Mobile Control, allowing users to drive, steer and load for transport the scissor lift from an iOS or Android mobile device. The IAPA Award ceremony was held on March 10th in London
Daliborka Riberio joins JLG® Product Management team
Named Director of the company’s telehandler product line JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company and a global manufacturer of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and telehandlers, is pleased to announce Daliborka (Dali) Ribeiro as the director of product management for JLG® and SkyTrak® telehandlers, including the company’s latest rotating and agricultural models. In this role, Ribeiro will lead the multi-generation product plan and drive the direction and implementation of its telehandler go-to-market strategy. Ribeiro and her parents moved from the former Yugoslavia to Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, in 1998 where she completed high school and went on to study at Penn State University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing. After graduation, she followed in her father’s footsteps and joined JLG in 2005 as a parts pricing analyst. Ribeiro says that she always knew JLG would be the right place for her because of her father’s long career in JLG manufacturing, his passion for the products, and the company’s culture. While in her first role at JLG, she continued her studies at Shippensburg University where she earned a Master of Business Administration from the John L. Grove School of Business. Shortly after receiving her MBA, Ribeiro advanced to a parts pricing manager role. Ribeiro expanded that role to become a senior manager of business development, acquiring responsibilities beyond parts pricing, which included coordination with the supply chain, aftermarket parts sales, and integrated technology teams. With more than 10-years of aftermarket experience and a broad understanding of the JLG business and its customers, Ribeiro then advanced to a director of the pricing role, where she led the team responsible for both whole goods and aftermarket parts pricing, before moving into her newest role as director of product management for telehandlers. Throughout her career, Ribeiro has played an integral role in supporting business development initiatives. She says that taking on a leadership role in product management provides her with the opportunity to continue expanding her business knowledge by getting closer to the customer and being at the forefront of new business and product development decisions. “JLG has a well-established position in the telehandler market,” says Ribeiro. “It’s an honor to represent two market-leading brands like JLG and SkyTrak and to have the opportunity to talk directly with customers about the current product line and future enhancements. Feedback from the field spurs our process of customer-inspired innovation.” JLG has recently diversified its telehandler portfolio to meet the growing demand for these highly versatile machines. These new models support applications across the agricultural and landscape industries, as well as work in highly congested urban areas and in specialty applications where higher capacity and greater height are required. “Our team is passionate about understanding job site challenges to develop solutions that drive tangible value for owners and operators. It’s an exciting time to step into my new product management role, and I am looking forward to applying my aftermarket experience and developing a full lifecycle strategy for the telehandler product line,” concludes Ribeiro. In her new telehandler role, Ribeiro joins Ara Eckel, Bob Begley, and Nate Hoover to round out the JLG product management director team.
WIKA Mobile Control provides wireless system solution for QMC Cranes
QMC Cranes (QMC) is offering WIKA Mobile Control’s PRS90 wireless multi-sensor indicator as an option on their 40-series and 50-series boom trucks. The system is widely used as an option for production units and is frequently installed on older cranes requiring a wireless system upgrade. All of the 4033R and 5034R boom trucks equipped with the PRS90 are currently being used in the precast concrete industry. Given the harsh working environments that their machines operate in, QMC required a robust wireless system and chose the PRS90 for a variety of reasons. According to QMC, one of the many benefits of the system is that it is simple to use and easy to install which makes it a great fit for less experienced mechanics when upgrading in the field. In addition, the PRS90 is more robust and reliable than comparable wireless systems making it suitable for unique job sites and a large variety of applications. “Our team has been providing the PRS90 system to our customers for several years,” said Brent Petring, General Manager of QMC Cranes. “The ease of use, ease of installation, and reliability make the PRS90 a high-quality system, perfect for the tough applications that QMC Cranes sees every day.” The PRS90 system features a 4.3” color graphic display and various wireless sensor options including angle, load, and anti-two block. This system allows the operator to pre-set limits with an audible and visual warning and modify sensor configurations with ease.
Caldwell’s new hires target customer experience
Rockford, Illinois-based The Caldwell Group Inc. has named Jeff Ferchen, director, business development; and Lisa Sympson, marketing manager. The appointments chime with wider endeavors to further enhance overall customer experience, which is a focal point for Ferchen especially, who will also oversee inside sales and engineering activities. Sympson, meanwhile, aims to strengthen the company’s marketing efforts to better serve distributor customers and share the story of Caldwell’s lifting solutions with end-users. Ferchen brings 24 years of industry experience, including roles at The Crosby Group and Rockford Rigging, while Sympson returns to the material handling industry, having spent 23 years at Grainger Inc., North America’s leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair, and operating products. Darrin Noe, director of sales at Caldwell, said: “These appointments show our commitment to continuing to build a quality inside roster to enhance the overall customer experience. We have several things we want to achieve—both short and long term—and to reach those goals, we knew we had to invest in our human resources.” Doug Stitt, president and CEO at Caldwell, said: “Jeff is a major appointment. He brings extraordinary knowledge of the industry, first-hand experience with the products, and exemplary relationships with our customer base—a combination that will benefit greatly the way we serve distributors and end-users. With Lisa—like Jeff—we knew immediately that she would fit into the Caldwell culture and brought the right skill-set, attitude, and work ethic to help us get to the next level. Her broad and diverse marketing background is going to help us grow by creating better web experiences, stronger new product introductions, and better product information.” Caldwell, which provides equipment on the Grainger platform and via a global network of distributors, is a manufacturer of standard and custom lifters, rigging gear, and other material handling products. It recently completed an overhaul of its enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, with a primary focus on inventory management. A multifaceted business, Caldwell and the RUD Group unite their sales and marketing activities in the U.S. and Canada for material handling and lifting devices within a common organization; and clamp manufacturer J.C. Renfroe is a thriving subsidiary. Unique perspective Sympson said: “It is exciting to work for an industry pioneer that is strong and growing. Having been on the distributor side of the industry previously, it is going to be interesting to offer my insight to a manufacturer and learn about a different level of the supply chain, creating the assets I know distributors want and need. I am looking forward to assisting customers in finding the best solutions—to help them complete projects on time, on budget, with reliable, top-quality solutions. We will further improve communication to clients about new products and their capabilities, bolstered by an enhanced online presence over time.” Sympson will be present at the upcoming Associated Wire Rope Fabricators (AWRF) event and Product Information Exhibition (PIE), which takes place at the Marriott Marquis Houston on April 24-27 and will be responsible for the creation of the Caldwell trade show experience at future expos. “Caldwell is about relationships,” she said. “Events give us the opportunity to talk to our partners and learn first-hand what they love, what they need, and how we can make their lives easier. I want to hear people’s stories.” Noe added: “We still have a number of positions currently open—production personnel, administrative help, and outside salespeople—for which we’re actively seeking candidates.”
Columbus McKinnon introduces the first Electric Chain Hoist on the market with remote monitoring and wireless programming
Industry-leading CM® Lodestar® VS now features Intelli-Connect™ Diagnostics and Analytics for quick and easy hoist maintenance, monitoring, and troubleshooting wirelessly from the plant floor Columbus McKinnon Corporation, a designer and manufacturer of intelligent motion solutions for material handling, today announced that its Intelli-Connect™ Diagnostics and Analytics technology is now available on the CM® Lodestar® VS Electric Chain Hoist. When Intelli-Connect is paired with the Lodestar VS and its variable frequency drive (VFD), this hoist is the only chain hoist that allows operators to wirelessly program the hoist and access detailed diagnostic and analytic information right from the plant floor on a smartphone or tablet. IntelliConnect is available as an option on all new Lodestar VS units or in retrofit kits for units already in the field. “By combining the capabilities of Intelli-Connect with the Lodestar VS, we’ve made it easier than ever to program, maintain, monitor, and troubleshoot your hoist,” said Bryan Holby, senior global product manager, powered chain hoists. “Customers can get insight into how their hoist is operating to easily and proactively monitor performance and schedule maintenance, helping them address issues more quickly, keep operators safer and ultimately reduce downtime.” Intelli-Connect eliminates the need to connect a tablet or PC to the hoist with a cord. Now, users can access information wirelessly through the Intelli-Connect Mobile or Mobile+ apps from their mobile device. Intelli-Connect Mobile offers a wide range of functionality, including hoist programming and monitoring, access to manuals, parameter file storage, and over-the-air software updates, plus easy contact with the service team. Intelli-Connect Mobile+ offers all the capabilities of Intelli-Connect Mobile, plus advanced diagnostics and analytics. This includes continuous equipment monitoring complete with long-term performance information, such as runs, faults, alarms, and VFD status variables like fault codes, motor voltage, current, available hoist operating life, and more. The Intelli-Connect Mobile app is available as a free download on Google Play or the Apple® App Store®. Users can upgrade to Intelli-Connect Mobile+ functionality for a one-time fee through the app. Columbus McKinnon’s powered chain hoists are known throughout the material handling industry for their strength, reliability, and high-quality performance.
Bob Begley joins the JLG® Product Management team
Named Director for Scissor Lifts, Vertical Lifts, and Low-Level Access Lifts JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company and a global manufacturer of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and telehandlers, has announced that Bob Begley has joined the company as director of product management for scissor, vertical and low-level access lifts. In this role, Begley is responsible for the company’s multi-generational product plan, as well as driving the direction and implementation of its go-to-market strategies. “Within the last few years, JLG has taken big leaps in the evolution of its aerial lift portfolio, incorporating exciting new design changes and introducing new specialty models, including all-electric, lightweight, and indoor-only options,” says Begley. “Many of these progressive design changes were customer-driven and focused on productivity. And, that work continues today.” Begley says that stepping into this role, he and his team will continue to work with customers to gather feedback, as well as observe first-hand how JLG® machines are being used on job sites. These inputs help us identify application challenges that will fuel future customer-inspired innovations. “We take this approach seriously,” he says, “By closely working with customers throughout the product development cycle, we ensure that the JLG brand is developing and delivering advancements across our product lines that drive tangible value on job sites.” Begley notes that his team is also focused on highlighting product enhancements across all three of the product lines he is responsible for to provide users with a similar experience, regardless of what machine they are using. This will continue to improve the overall customer experience with JLG equipment. He also adds that the ongoing evolution of equipment through innovative, integrated technologies, will continue to drive productivity and safety improvements on JLG scissor lift, vertical lift, and low-level access lifts. Prior to joining JLG, Begley held various product management roles with Blaw-Knox Construction Equipment Corporation, Volvo Construction Equipment, and Ingersoll-Rand. Before getting into the construction industry, Begley served in the United States Navy. His education includes an ASAST in Nuclear Engineering Technology from Thomas Edison State University, a BSME in Mechanical Engineering from Youngstown State University, and a Master’s in Business Administration from Indiana University – Kelley School of Business Together with his director of product management peers, Ara Eckel, Daliborka (Dali) Ribeiro, and Nate Hoover, Begley will focus on fulfilling the company’s mission to elevate access across three pillars: Safety, Productivity, and Technology.
Verton and The Crosby Group expand load orientation technology in North America
Verton and The Crosby Group have announced an expansion of Verton’s load orientation technology in North America. As a partner and Master Distributor of Verton products for the Americas, The Crosby Group has invested in additional units for deployment in the United States and Canada, as well as key team members to support the growing business. Verton’s innovative load orientation solutions include Everest 6, SpinPod™ 7.5, and SpinPodTM 30, a modular load orienting system for a broad range of working load limits. Robert Desel, CEO of The Crosby Group, said: “Verton’s remote-controlled load orientation products provide a step-change in terms of the safety and productivity of our customers’ lifting operations. Verton’s wireless products remotely orientate suspended loads without the need for taglines, using gyroscopes and sophisticated control systems, removing the need for personnel near or under loads. The combined strengths of Verton’s product with the rich rigging heritage of The Crosby Group has allowed us to bring these benefits to job sites across the Americas.” CEO of Verton, Tim Ekert, said, “We are thrilled to see the investment that The Crosby Group is making in support of our partnership. Verton will have a greatly increased presence in the market to bring our products to new customers and industries and to provide an increased level of support to our existing customers.” The Verton range of intelligent and safe lifting solutions can provide benefits to all industries. The Crosby Group services include land-based and offshore energy, construction and infrastructure, cargo handling and towing, marine, mining, and transportation. Verton guarantees that their solutions deliver an ROI of at least 25% per month. Verton’s load orientation technology reduces downtime by 25% and hook time by 50%. In addition, Verton users see an immediate improvement in the safety and productivity of their lifting operations.
WIKA Mobile Control provides wireless system solution for QMC Cranes
QMC Cranes (QMC) is offering WIKA Mobile Control’s PRS90 wireless multi-sensor indicator as an option on their 40-series and 50-series boom trucks. The system is widely used as an option for production units and is frequently installed on older cranes requiring a wireless system upgrade. All of the 4033R and 5034R boom trucks equipped with the PRS90 are currently being used in the precast concrete industry. Given the harsh working environments that their machines operate in, QMC required a robust wireless system and chose the PRS90 for a variety of reasons. According to QMC, one of the many benefits of the system is that it is simple to use and easy to install which makes it a great fit for less experienced mechanics when upgrading in the field. In addition, the PRS90 is more robust and reliable than comparable wireless systems making it suitable for unique job sites and a large variety of applications. “Our team has been providing the PRS90 system to our customers for several years,” said Brent Petring, General Manager of QMC Cranes. “The ease of use, ease of installation, and reliability make the PRS90 a high-quality system, perfect for the tough applications that QMC Cranes sees every day.” The PRS90 system features a 4.3” color graphic display and various wireless sensor options including angle, load, and anti-two block. This system allows the operator to pre-set limits with an audible and visual warning and modify sensor configurations with ease.