Gebrüder Weiss announces strategic partnership with PartsCloud
Gebrüder Weiss, an international transport and logistics company with a 500-year history, announced a new strategic partnership with PartsCloud, a LaaS (Logistics-as-a-Service) start-up that digitizes spare parts logistics for engineering and plant construction. PartsCloud is based in Stuttgart, Germany, and the grand opening of its new Chicago warehouse represents its first entry point into the U.S. market. “Spare parts logistics in engineering and plant construction is very complex, and Gebrüder Weiss can provide support based on our many years of logistics know-how,” says Lothar Thoma, Managing Director Air & Sea at Gebrüder Weiss. Moreover, we believe in the business model of PartsCloud, and there is still immense potential for standardization and digitization in industrial spare parts logistics.” PartsCloud co-founders Benjamin Reichenecker and Fabian Gemmecke founded the company in 2021 with the mission to create a global logistics network that people can use through a simple interface. Engineering and plant construction is one of their native Germany’s leading export and innovation sectors, but lack of digitization has created procurement challenges. Machine downtime in production plants costs these businesses an average of 13.5 million euros per month. The cooperation with Gebrüder Weiss enables PartsCloud to smoothly transfer its established standard operating model and its fulfillment processes in Germany to the U.S. “Our LaaS platform puts our customers in full control and offers standardized interfaces for efficient logistics,” says Reichenecker, CEO of PartsCloud. “We are proud to work with a logistics provider as experienced and reputable as Gebrüder Weiss as we partner to bring this interface to customers in North, Central, and South America.” In addition to its US expansion, PartsCloud plans to open markets in Asia, Mexico, the UK and the Middle East.
KEEN Utility introduces the Lansing Chelsea with pull-on convenience
With the release of the Lansing Chelsea, KEEN Utility brings its go-to work hiker with pull-on convenience while still providing essential protection and support. Made with a durable, water-resistant leather upper that’s as good-looking as it is hard-working, the Lansing Chelsea steel-toe boot offers elastic panels in the ankle area that make it easy to pull on, while a reflective safety feature runs from heel to toe for added visibility on the job. Other product highlights include an EH-rated outsole to provide a secondary source of protection when accidental contact is made with live electrical circuits and an oil- and slip-resistant, non-marking, multidirectional lugged rubber outsole. New for Fall 2023, the Lansing Chelsea is available for men.
Know your Key Performance Indicators in rental management
As the calendar turns to November, it’s hard to believe that it’s been over a year now since becoming a regular contributor in this Aftermarket column. In last month’s edition, I wrote about the topic of relational capital; the intangible asset that encompasses the network of relationships you build with your customers, partners, and employees. My personal relational capital has allowed me to regularly get inspiration for content to contribute to this monthly column. So, with that, this month’s inspiration came from my attendance at the recent MHEDA Rental and Used Equipment Management Conference in Chicago. The goal of the conference was not only to enhance rental and used equipment management skills, but also to increase the profitability of said departments. A common topic shared after speaker presentations and during round-table discussions was the topic of having dedicated technicians for your rental equipment. Let us further explore this topic. Many dealerships I visit tend to have a dedicated rental equipment department. The rental department managers are responsible for making the service and parts decisions for the equipment within. Many of the rental management professionals I spoke to at this conference shared the same sentiment: When it comes to managing a rental fleet, where efficiency and reliability are paramount, the role of dedicated technicians cannot be overstated. Whether your dealership rents forklifts, construction equipment, or any other type of machinery, having a team of specialists solely focused on maintaining and servicing your rental fleet can be a game-changer. Three important rental management KPIs that are related to aftermarket parts and service include: Maintenance Costs: Monitoring the expenses related to maintaining your rental fleet. Costs include technician labor, spare parts, as well as any other 3rd party maintenance costs. Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your equipment and reduce long-term costs. Employee Productivity: It is important to regularly measure the productivity of your staff involved in the rental process, including sales, customer service, maintenance and logistics. Downtime: Monitoring the amount of time your rental equipment is out of service due to maintenance, repairs, waiting on spare parts, and other reasons. Reducing downtime is crucial for maximizing profitability. These three KPIs (Key Performance Indicator) are why it’s recommended to have dedicated technicians servicing your rental equipment. Dedicated technicians are the heart and soul of your rental fleet maintenance. They are the ones who will know the intricacies of your equipment. By specializing in the specific make and model of forklifts or any machinery within your fleet. They can develop an intimate familiarity that extends far beyond the operator’s manual. Their expertise enables them to swiftly diagnose issues, execute efficient repairs, and minimize downtime. These specialists are the guardians of your machinery, ensuring it operates at peak performance. Consistency is a cornerstone of dedicated technician teams. With a singular focus on your rental fleet, they adhere to a standardized maintenance and inspection regimen. Every forklift, aerial work platform, or other machine receives the same meticulous care, enhancing reliability, safety, and unwavering quality assurance. Technician efficiency is a precious commodity. With dedicated technicians, you gain an edge in efficiency. These specialists are not distracted by the demands of everyday service calls with a wide array of customer owned equipment. Their undivided attention translates into quicker turnaround times for maintenance and repairs, ultimately benefiting your bottom line. Preventive maintenance is the key to cost savings and a well-run rental fleet. Dedicated technicians excel at identifying and rectifying issues before they escalate into costly problems. By proactively addressing maintenance needs, they keep downtime to a minimum and ensure that the machines in your fleet remain reliable money-making machines. Dedicated technicians create accountability and clear lines of responsibility. With a specialized team in place, it’s easier to pinpoint who is responsible for the condition of each machine. This accountability fosters a culture of excellence and ensures that your forklifts or other equipment are consistently kept in optimal working condition. These dedicated technicians also maintain meticulous records of all maintenance and repair activities for each piece of equipment in your rental fleet. This documentation is invaluable for tracking the history of each machine, adhering to maintenance schedules, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Dedicated technicians are the driving force behind your rental fleet’s success. Their expertise, consistency, and commitment to excellence ensure the continued reliability of your equipment and elevate your service quality. In the competitive landscape of equipment rentals, dedicated technicians are a strategic investment that propels your business towards operational excellence and customer satisfaction. By having a team of dedicated technicians responsible for servicing your rental fleet, you not only ensure the well-being of your equipment but also elevate the overall quality of service you provide to your valued customers. In the competitive world of equipment rentals, dedicated technicians are an investment that pays dividends in operational excellence. Downtime is lost time. So, look to employ dedicated technicians for your rental equipment to ensure operational efficiency, profitability, and customer satisfaction. The presence of dedicated technicians instills a sense of accountability and excellence in the management of your rental fleet, making them an indispensable asset for success. About the Author: Chris Aiello is the Business Development Manager at TVH Parts Co. He has been in the equipment business for 16-plus years as a service manager, quality assurance manager, and business development manager. Chris now manages a national outside sales team selling replacement parts and accessories in various equipment markets such as material handling, equipment rental, and construction/earthmoving dealerships.
Crossover at Kinnick Iowa Hawkeyes Women’s Basketball Bobblehead unveiled
This morning, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum unveiled an officially licensed, limited-edition bobblehead commemorating the “Crossover at Kinnick” women’s basketball game that is set to take place this Sunday, October 15th at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. The bobblehead features University of Iowa mascot Herky the Hawk holding a “Crossover at Kinnick” basketball while standing on a basketball court inside a replica of Kinnick Stadium. The special edition bobblehead is being produced by the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum, an official licensee of the University of Iowa. Iowa will look to set the all-time women’s basketball attendance record when it hosts DePaul at Kinnick Stadium on Sunday. The women’s basketball attendance record of 29,619 was set in the 2002 National Championship game between Connecticut and Oklahoma in San Antonio’s Alamodome, and over 47,000 tickets have already been presold for Sunday’s game. Holding a basketball with the “Crossover at Kinnick” logo and standing on a basketball court inside a replica of Kinnick Stadium, the Herky the Hawk bobblehead is wearing his white Iowa Hawkeyes basketball jersey. The stadium base reads IOWA HAWKEYES across the front along with the “Crossover at Kinnick” logo on the sides. Each bobblehead will be individually numbered to only 2,023 and they are currently available exclusively through the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum’s Online Store. The bobbleheads, which are expected to ship in January, are $40 each plus a flat-rate shipping charge of $8 per order. With more than 47,000 tickets sold 10 days prior to the big event, the “Crossover at Kinnick” featuring the Iowa Hawkeyes, last year’s national runner-up, and DePaul is certain to shatter the all-time women’s basketball attendance record. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for our women’s basketball program and the sport,” 24th-year Iowa coach Lisa Bluder said in a statement. “I look forward to seeing all of our closest friends inside Kinnick Stadium for a historic day.” All proceeds from “Crossover at Kinnick” game will go to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Excitement is high for the 2023-24 women’s basketball season in Iowa City after the Hawkeyes went on a memorable and historic run last season. Three starters, including All-American point guard and reigning National Player of the Year, Caitlin Clark, return from a team that went 31-7 and finished as the national runner-up. In August, the program announced that season tickets were already sold out. The state of Iowa has a long history of supporting girls and women’s basketball. The Hawkeyes were second nationally in attendance last season with an average of 11,143 at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. In addition to appearing in the title game of the NCAA Tournament for the first time in program history where they lost to LSU, 102-85, the Hawkeyes finished as the runner-up in the Big Ten Conference behind Indiana with a 15-3 record and won the Big Ten Conference Tournament title for the second consecutive season. Earning a No. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament, the Hawkeyes recorded victories over Southeastern Louisiana, Georgia, Colorado, and Louisville to advance to their first Final Four since 1993. In the national semifinals, Iowa knocked off defending champion, previously undefeated and top-seeded South Carolina, 77-73, before a sellout crowd of 19,288 at American Airlines Center in Dallas in one of the most anticipated matchups in women’s Final Four history. “We are excited to release this very special bobblehead in celebration of the Iowa women’s basketball team’s ‘Crossover at Kinnick’ event,” National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum co-founder and CEO Phil Sklar said. “After the excitement created by the Hawkeyes last season and the anticipation for another memory-making season, this bobblehead will be a must-have for fans of the Iowa Hawkeyes and especially for those that will attend this historic event!”
Relational capital
I recently attended a leadership conference in Boston. While my plans during my stay in Boston included seeing a Red Sox game in the evening at Fenway Park, enjoying a pint of beer at an Irish pub, and eating clam chowder and lobster, I was also looking forward to the lineup of speakers and workshops at this conference. One speaker in particular was Ed Wallace and his workshop on relational capital. Ed Wallace is President and Chief Relationship Officer of The Relational Capital Group; he is critically acclaimed as the foremost authority on business relationships and their impact on performance. There were many takeaways from his workshop, and I knew this topic would be a good one for my monthly aftermarket column here. The success of your dealership is often attributed to a combination of factors, including innovative products, effective marketing strategies, and efficient operations. However, one essential but often underestimated factor plays a pivotal role in shaping your organization: relational capital. This intangible asset encompasses the network of relationships you build with your customers, partners, and employees. Let’s look at the significance of relational capital and explore how it can be a game-changer for your business. Relational Capital Defined The relationships with your customers, suppliers, partners, and employees should be considered a core asset of your business, known as relational capital. Relational capital can be understood as the collective value derived from your business’s relationships with various parties. It extends beyond financial transactions and encapsulates the trust, goodwill, and mutual understanding fostered between your business and its stakeholders. These stakeholders include customers, suppliers, investors, employees, and even competitors. At the heart of relational capital lies trust. Establishing trust with your customers and partners can lead to long-lasting relationships that are built on honesty and integrity. Trust fosters loyalty, and loyal customers are not only more likely to stick with your brand, products and services, but also become advocates, spreading positive word-of-mouth and attracting new customers. After-sale service at a lift truck dealership encompasses maintenance, repairs, parts replacement, and technical support. Relational capital in this context revolves around the intangible value generated from trust, customer loyalty, and the quality of interactions between your dealership and your customers in all aspects of the after-sale service. Customers In the age of information and social media, customers have more power than ever before. They can easily share their experiences and opinions about your business with a global audience. A strong focus on building positive customer relationships can help you manage your brand’s reputation and ensure customer satisfaction. Happy customers are more likely to provide repeat business and recommend your products or services to others. Running a lift truck dealership entails more than just selling equipment; it involves cultivating enduring relationships with your customers. The post-sale service phase presents a valuable opportunity to establish and nurture these relationships through relational capital. Suppliers Relational capital is not limited to customer relationships. Partnerships with suppliers, distributors, and even competitors can drive innovation and open up new avenues for growth. Having a good relationship with suppliers is vital, especially where critical components and complementary offerings are concerned. Successful companies understand that trust is an important distinction between a business transaction and a true relationship. They invest tremendous energy in developing ways to institutionalize trust in their procurement processes. For example, many successful businesses tend to develop long-term relationships with their vendors and suppliers rather than simply buying from the lowest-cost provider. They prioritize quality first, followed by service and cost. Building a good working relationship with suppliers helps develop their reputation and attract additional business. It is important to conduct regular strategic business reviews to assess the relationship and discuss performance, improvements, and new product development. It is also important to foster relationships with suppliers that share the same values as your organization. Focus on developing trust-based, mutually beneficial, and long-term relationships with your suppliers. Employees A business’s most valuable asset is its employees. Building strong relationships with your team members can result in higher employee satisfaction, improved morale, and increased productivity. As I stated in a previous column, the competition for service technicians, parts professionals, sales staff, office personnel, and management continues to be fierce. When employees feel valued and connected to your company’s mission, they are more likely to go the extra mile and contribute positively to your organization’s success. Strategies to Deploy Communication: Regularly engage with your stakeholders through various channels. This could include personalized interactions, newsletters, social media, and more. Specific to service, regularly communicate with your customers to remind them of upcoming service intervals, provide maintenance tips, and address any concerns they may have. Deliver Value: Continuously deliver value to your customers, partners, and employees. Show that you are invested in their success. Networking: Collaborating with other businesses can lead to the exchange of ideas, resources, and expertise, ultimately enhancing your own products or services. Attending industry events, conferences, and seminars to expand your network and connect with potential collaborators. Empathy: Understand the needs and concerns of your stakeholders. Showing empathy helps forge deeper connections. Personalized Maintenance Plans: Develop customized maintenance schedules based on each customer’s usage patterns and needs. This proactive approach demonstrates your commitment to their specific requirements. Transparency: Be open about your business’s operations, values, and challenges. Transparency builds trust and demonstrates authenticity. Additionally, offer clear and transparent cost estimates for repairs and parts replacements. Customers appreciate honesty and are more likely to return when they trust your pricing. Expert Technical Support: Provide accessible and knowledgeable technical support for troubleshooting and assistance. Prompt and effective support builds customer confidence. Warranty and Service Guarantees: Offer warranties on repairs and services, showcasing your confidence in your team’s expertise. Such guarantees bolster customer trust in your dealership. Customer Training: Organize workshops such as forklift operator training. This educational approach enhances customer empowerment and loyalty. Feedback Integration: Encourage your customers to share feedback after each service interaction. Act on their suggestions to continually improve your services. The benefits of these strategies include customer
Rockwell Automation and Infinitum announce agreement to make high-efficiency low voltage drives and motors
Partnership will deliver market-leading integrated drives and motors giving manufacturers the ability to deliver sustainable outcomes with less consumed energy, raw materials, and waste Rockwell Automation, Inc., the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, and Infinitum, creator of the sustainable air core motor, has announced an exclusive agreement to jointly develop and distribute a new class of high-efficiency, integrated low voltage drive and motor technology. This solution will significantly save energy and cut costs for industrial customers globally, while helping them reduce their carbon footprint and become more sustainable. As companies grow more energy conscious and look to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, variable frequency drives (VFDs) with high-efficiency motors have increasingly come into focus. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), electric motors consume approximately 40% of the electricity consumed globally, with the percentage rising to nearly 70% for industrial companies. Under this agreement, Rockwell’s market-leading PowerFlex® drive technology will be combined with Infinitum’s high-efficiency Aircore EC motor system. This powerful package will help companies reduce their carbon footprint with a motor system that is 50% smaller and lighter, uses 66% less copper, and consumes 10% less energy than traditional iron core motors. “We’ve long recognized the benefits of Infinitum’s integrated motor and drive system because of its class-leading energy efficiency, sustainability, and ease of operations,” said Barry Elliott, vice president and general manager of Power Control, Rockwell Automation. “We’re excited about the powerful impact that our new joint solution will have on improving sustainability, energy-efficiency, and productivity for our customers around the world.” Rockwell and Infinitum have collaborated since 2021, when Rockwell made an initial investment in Infinitum as part of the company’s Series C funding. “We’re excited to extend our successful partnership with Rockwell Automation. This agreement opens new customer channels for our sustainable motors that can power the world with less energy, material, and waste,” said Ben Schuler, founder and CEO, Infinitum. “Working with Rockwell will enable a direct and widespread impact on industrial companies, reducing electricity consumption and increasing sustainability for this energy-intensive sector.” The integrated VFD and motors will be available in late 2024 exclusively through Rockwell and its partners.
NSK presented with Motion’s Supplier of the Year award
Motion Industries, Inc., a distributor of maintenance, repair and operation replacement parts, and a premier provider of industrial technology solutions, named NSK “2022 Supplier of the Year.” The award recognizes companies that have shown exceptional commitment to Motion through quality products and services and earned the highest score in the multi-faceted Supplier Stratification rating system. The presentation took place July 18, 2023, at NSK’s manufacturing facilities in Franklin, TN. “NSK consistently seeks opportunities to increase their alignment with Motion’s strategies,” said Joe Limbaugh, Motion’s Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer. “We appreciate NSK’s forward-thinking and their efforts to ensure Motion’s success in its growth plan.” “It’s an honor to accept this award on behalf of everyone at NSK, from the U.S. team members to our factories around the world who support our local activities,” said Tarek Bugaighis, Senior Vice President – Industrial Business Unit, NSK Americas, Inc. “The collaboration between our companies to serve the industrial market has been tremendous not only last year, but in the years prior as well, culminating with this year’s Supplier of the Year award. Thank you to Motion and to everyone from both companies that work so hard to deliver exceptional value to the industrial market. It has been a pleasure to work with Motion, and I look forward to all we can accomplish together in the years ahead.” Motion’s Supplier Stratification formula is a rating system that evaluates each supplier’s performance in a number of Supply Chain, Marketing and Field Support categories.
TVH announces changes in Customer Service and Sales Teams in the U.S.
TVH Americas, a provider of quality parts and accessories for the material handling, industrial and light construction equipment industries are making changes to the Customer Service and Sales teams in the USA. Effective July 2023, Ryan Walker was promoted to Director of Sales and Services for the USA. Cathy Diaz will remain in her current role, as Sales Director USA, until December 2023 when she will retire and leave her beloved customers in Ryan Walker and the team’s hands. Cathy Diaz, Director USA Sales, began her career with System Material Handling Inc. (SMH) in 1984. Her wealth of experience and knowledge proved vital during the acquisition of SMH by TVH in 2003. In 2006, Cathy Diaz played an integral role in the IMC Holdings (Intrupa and LPM) acquisition. Ryan Walker, Director of Technical Service, has been in the industry for 34 years. Starting his career at Intrupa he was responsible for several teams including customer service, technical support, quality and sales. Ryan Walker worked with Cathy Diaz to smoothly integrate the two companies and will pair up again to manage our service departments in the USA. With a combined 75 years of industry experience, the duo will work diligently to keep customers at the heart of our organization. TVH wishes Cathy all the best in her next chapter and to Ryan all the success in his future with TVH.
Intella Parts Company searches for the oldest Hyster forklift
Intella Parts Company, LLC recently conducted a contest on finding the oldest Hyster Forklift that included their customers, LinkedIn and Facebook followers. They were encouraged to submit their entry if they felt they had the oldest Hyster. The rules were that they must actually own the forklift. Intella president Marcel VandenTop said they have quite a few Hyster parts inquiries and was curious on the oldest Hyster forklift out there. The winner of the contest would receive $100 gift certificate from Intella, a Carhart sweatshirt and a $100 VISA gift certificate. The winner of the oldest Hyster forklift was Public Steel, Inc. based in Amarillo, TX with a 1945 Hyster KD Krane. Phillip DeLuna from Public Steel in Amarillo TX submitted their 1945 Hyster model KD KarryKrane. Public Steel has been in business since 1948 and believe it or not has three of this model in their possession. Phillip reports that it still runs and the machine is still used once in a while, they also have a few more modern forklifts they use on a regular basis. The KD series from Hyster was likely built in their Peoria, IL factory (Learn more what Hyster was doing in the 1940s here). This model of Hyster will look strange to most modern forklift operators and drivers, mainly because this forklift was built and designed in the era before the modern pallet was invented. Back in the 1940s, pallets weren’t really universally used and the KarryKrane was a sort of pre-cursor to the modern forklift which lifts the omni-present 48×48 inch pallet. “Forklifts” of this time were just used as universal “move stuff around the factory” pieces of equipment. Here are some other images from Public Steel on the other Hyster forklifts from the 1940s they still have. Check out some of our other entrants to our 2023 oldest Hyster forklift competition below: “The only shocking thing to me was entries that were Hysters built in the 1970s. I mean, come on, someone, I mean something born in the 80s isn’t exactly ancient!” said VandenTop.
High Torques thanks to compact bevel Gear Boxes and Worm Gear Reducers
JW Winco has expanded its product range with two compact and robust angular gear boxes that translate rotational movements by 90 degrees and transmit high torques with or without a gear ratio. They are suitable for applications such as handling systems, packaging machines, and conveyor technology. The bevel gear box GN 3971 is available in seven sizes with housing lengths between 1.26 and 2.36 in (32 and 60 mm) and widths between 0.71 and 1.38 in (18 and 35 mm). The gear ratio between the gear box shafts is always 1. The direction of rotation can be selected as desired. The gear shafts can receive axial and radial forces of 13.9 lbf (60 newtons) on the smallest model and 124 lbf (550 newtons) on the largest. The special tooth geometry of the bevel gears of case-hardened steel allows for particularly high torques relative to the size. This can be as high as 10 newton meters, depending on the operating speed. Thanks to small center distances, the worm gear reducer GN 3975 measures only 2.36 in (60 mm) on the sides and only 1.38 in (35 mm) in width. An internal hardened steel screw moves a worm gear made of special brass. Seven versions provide gear ratios between 1:13 and 1:65. The maximum radial and axial force ranges between 44.96 and 112 lbf (200 and 500 newtons) on the input side and is always 112 lbf (500 newtons) on the output side. Starting with a gear ratio of 1:18, a static self-locking mechanism prevents the rotation of the worm gear from the output side, offering improved safety in many applications. The encapsulated housings of anodized aluminum make both angular gears light and corrosion resistant. They also effectively dissipate the resulting frictional heat. Numerous fastening holes make it possible to mount the gear boxes in many positions. The shafts can be rotated in both directions and feature a threaded bore and parallel keys for a positive connection to the hub. The bevel gear boxes, and worm gear reducers have lifetime lubrication and therefore require no maintenance. The two gear boxes can also be combined, such as with the elastomer jaw coupling GN 2240.
Increase service department sales by training topics
I recently met with a customer discussing their service technician opportunities and while we were talking about this, we also touched on service technician training topics to help drive additional parts and service revenue. They were specifically looking into ways for their service technicians to quote and upsell additional service and parts opportunities when on a service call or routine PM service. Since it was June and National Forklift Safety Day had just passed, they specifically discussed quoting and selling more tires on these service calls. With this, let’s talk about forklift tires for this month’s article. A forklift’s tires will wear down faster than other parts on a forklift. The weight of the forklift and its load causes a lot of wear and tear on the tires. Worn out tires can be dangerous for the forklift operator. Part of the OSHA pre-operation inspection for the operator is to check the tire condition and pressure including looking for cuts and gouges. Sometimes these items get overlooked, so tires are certainly a service and parts sale that your technicians can be looking to quote to your customers. As with a pre-operation inspection performed by a forklift operator, technicians can look for the following in regard to forklift tires: Visible damage such as chunking, tearing, splitting, and cracking of the rubber. Chunking is usually a result of running a forklift in an outside application, or running over objects, or on rough terrain. As you are familiar with checking the wear on your car tires, solid rubber tires can be checked similarly. If tread distance from the manufacturer’s nameplate on the tire falls below an inch or reaches the band on the wall of the tire, or tread is no longer visible, it’s time for replacement. If a tire is flat and patching the leak or hole does not fix the tire, it will need to be replaced. Additionally, tires with visible flat spots, due to uneven alignment or sudden stops by the operator, should also be replaced. With any of these conditions found on your customer’s forklift tires, it is important to convey to them that the condition of their forklift’s tires is critical to safety and regulatory compliance. They will not want to wait until an accident occurs when tires should have been replaced. Additionally, worn tires also put stress on the rest of the lift truck’s parts and fuel efficiency. For example, as forklift tires wear down so does their ability to absorb shock. Excessive shock on a lift truck can loosen parts, cause leaks in fluid lines, and even damage electrical components. Many dealerships will offer mobile tire service with a dedicated tire service department, sometimes with specially equipped mobile units for on-site tire pressing. While other dealerships may sub-out this service to a dedicated tire service company. The process is similar to when you have your tires on your car replaced, except with the pressing and mounting of the forklift tires. Nonetheless, if your service department is servicing the truck for regular repairs and maintenance, your service technicians should not be overlooking the opportunity for a tire replacement service and parts opportunity. Forklift Tire Basics Considering how the truck will be used and the environment it operates in will go a long way to helping you quote and sell the correct tire for your customer. Rubber or Polyurethane? In general, rubber tires are used on internal combustion trucks while polyurethane (poly) tires are more common on electric lift trucks. Here are some additional factors to consider when quoting tires for your customer’s forklift: Rolling Resistance – Poly tires offer less resistance than rubber. Because they are battery-powered, electrics trucks should use poly tires to conserve energy during operation and reduce downtime for recharging. Cushioning – The higher a tire’s durometer number, the harder the tire. A softer tire absorbs more impact and provides more cushioning. Because rubber tires have a lower durometer, they should be used if a softer ride is desired. Traction – Rubber tires offer a broader footprint over poly, thus giving them better traction. If you are still inclined to use a poly tire, modern versions now offer siping, or an engraved tread pattern, that lends them greater traction. Load Capacity – Because of their higher tensile strength, poly tires are more resistant to splitting, tearing, or chunking out under load than rubber tires are. Resistance to Cutting, Tearing, and Abrasions – As a general rule, poly tires will outlast a rubber tire by about four times. This is because poly tires are harder and less susceptible to cuts, tearing, and abrasions from sharp objects. Items that might cut a rubber tire will be deflected or become embedded in the much harder poly tire. High-Speed Operation – Polyurethane tires are more likely to fail due to heat buildup than rubber tires. This is because rubber tires can dissipate the heat better. For faster-moving trucks (propane and internal combustion) that see a higher buildup of heat, rubber tires are the way to go. Floor Marking – If marks on the floor (or a lack of) are a concern to you, then selecting a non-marking tire is an important consideration. While poly tires are naturally non-marking, black rubber tires will leave marks on the floor. You can get around this with special non-marking rubber tires. Response on Wet Floors – A smooth poly tire will have significantly less traction on wet floors than a rubber tire. If your operating environment requires a poly tire, consider one that has been siped to provide better traction. Chemical Resistance – Both poly and rubber tires are susceptible to chemicals in their environment. Knowing what type of chemicals your tires will come in contact with can help you choose between rubber and poly. It is best to use the right tire to match your needs to prevent costly failures. To sum up, rubber tires are often used indoors or outdoors where a softer ride or better traction is desired. Poly
Robroy Industries® named as One Of The “Best and Brightest” Companies to Work for in the nation
Robroy Industries® Enclosure Division, providers in the electrical products industry, has been designated as one of the “2023 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For” in the nation. This significant honor, given by The National Association for Business Resources, recognizes the most influential, trend-setting companies across the country. This award is based on assessments in categories such as communication, work-life balance, employee education, diversity, recognition, retention, and recognizes the commitment of Robroy Industries to excellence in human resource practices and employee enrichment. Robroy Industries Enclosures Division, Stahlin® and AttaBox® brands of non-metallic enclosures based in Belding Michigan has been recognized by The National Association for Business Resources, for 20 consecutive years, as one of the “Best and Brightest Companies to Work For” in Western, Michigan. Says Craig Mitchell, President of Robroy Industries Enclosures Division: “We are honored by this continuing recognition as a great company to have a career with. As a fourth-generation family-owned company, Robroy offers stability and experience of nearly 120 years in business with a forward-looking vision and proven progress. All of that has enabled us to remain highly successful even during challenging times. We support our talented team with a balanced working environment, competitive compensation and benefits, open, honest, transparent communication, and the ability to learn and grow with rewarding career opportunities.”
Continental introduces NightViu LED Driving Lights engineered for construction and off-highway use
Continental, a global supplier of systems, components, and tires to automobile, truck, and agriculture/construction equipment manufacturers, and a trusted provider of OE-engineered aftermarket parts, has introduced 10 new, professional-quality driving lights as part of the company’s NightViu® Lighting Solutions line. These new lights have been designed to help improve operational safety by dramatically increasing nighttime visibility. Engineered for use in agriculture, construction, and mining, the new NightViu Driving Lights are also suitable for marine and powersports applications. They feature rugged aluminum die-cast housings with cataphoretic coating, and resilient shatterproof polycarbonate lenses. Depending on the model, they are rated IP69K or IP67K for Ingress Protection (IP) from dust and water. Advanced optics NightViu Multi-function Driving Lights and Lightbars feature free-form reflectors that direct the light beam exactly where it’s needed. NightViu reversing lights feature Fresnel lenses to create a broad field of illumination directly behind the equipment. NightViu Driving Lights provide up to 5,500 lumens and a beam field length of up to 440 meters. Sophisticated electronics NightViu Driving Lights feature an integrated electronics driver and thermal management system to allow them to operate safely from -40°F to +190°F. The lights’ advanced LED technology delivers exceptional energy efficiency. They produce from 50-100 lumens per watt, depending on the model, and have been designed to ensure that they do not create electrical interference that could affect the vehicles existing electronics. Driving Lights for every application “Our new NightViu Driving Lights provide the illumination that operators need for maximum nighttime safety,” notes Edwin Betancourt Jr, Product Manager, Continental. “With three styles and a choice of configurations, they offer the right light for just about every application.” Continental is a leading aftermarket supplier of OE-engineered parts for HVAC and engine cooling, door systems, tire pressure monitoring systems, engine management, fuel systems, instrumentation, as well as automotive diagnostic systems, premium wiper blades, air, cabin, fuel, and oil filters, and brake system parts and fluid.
TVH
US Cutting Tool Orders totaled $190.0 Million in April 2023 which brings Year-to-Date total up 15.2% from 2022
April 2023 U.S. cutting tool consumption totaled $190.0 million, according to the U.S. Cutting Tool Institute (USCTI) and AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology. This total, as reported by companies participating in the Cutting Tool Market Report collaboration, was down 15.8% from March’s $225.6 million and up 7.5% when compared with the $176.7 million reported for April 2022. With a year-to-date total of $809.0 million, 2023 is up 15.2% when compared to the same time period in 2022. These numbers and all data in this report are based on the totals reported by the companies participating in the CTMR program. The totals here represent the majority of the U.S. market for cutting tools. “While several industry market segments have contracted recently, cutting tool market indicators remain positive with anticipated mid-single digit growth for 2023,” commented Jeff Major, president of USCTI. “There is a consensus that cutting tool inventories are higher within the distribution segment, which may indicate a short-term inventory burn followed by a possible uptick in renewed buying.” “After a spike in the first quarter of 2023, April shipments of cutting tools fell back to the levels seen at the start of this year, still remaining 7.5% above the April 2022 performance,” said Mark Killion, director of U.S. industries at Oxford Economics. He expanded on this, saying, “Demand from durable goods manufacturers has supported shipments over the past year but is now expected to turn weaker in coming months, in line with expectations for a shallow recession.” The Cutting Tool Market Report is jointly compiled by AMT and USCTI, two trade associations representing the development, production, and distribution of cutting tool technology and products. It provides a monthly statement on U.S. manufacturers’ consumption of the primary consumable in the manufacturing process – the cutting tool. Analysis of cutting tool consumption is a leading indicator of both upturns and downturns in U.S. manufacturing activity, as it is a true measure of actual production levels. Historical data for the Cutting Tool Market Report is available dating back to January 2012. This collaboration of AMT and USCTI is the first step in the two associations working together to promote and support U.S.-based manufacturers of cutting tool technology. The graph below includes the 12-month moving average for the durable goods shipments and cutting tool orders. These values are calculated by taking the average of the most recent 12 months and plotting them over time.
New generation of Compact LED Flood Lights outshine its HID counterparts
LEDtronics® announces its latest series of compact and lightweight LED Flood Lights that put out a surprising amount of light for their compact size and low power consumption. The high efficacy, multiple-angle mounting options, and sleek design make these light fixtures an ideal and easy installation in various applications. The area and spot luminaires come with an adjustable U-bracket that offers a multitude of choices for angle of inclination for outdoor area lighting needs that require adjustable-angle uniform illumination, such as architectural wall washing and accents, walkways, pathways, garden or landscape lighting, amusement parks, recreation areas, illuminated signs, and emergency exit way lighting, among many others. The LEDtronics GDL002 series flood lights are offered in a choice of two input voltages: 24VDC with 12 watts and 5000K pure white emitted color, and a wide 100~277VAC range with either 8W/4000K natural white combination, or 10.8W with 3000K and 5000K color temperatures. Other voltages, beam angles and color LED CCTs—5700K true white or 6500K cool white—are also optionally available to qualified volume orders. They provide a full-cutoff beam ranging from 40°x45° for the 8W, and a wide 95°x105° illumination for the rest. Their optimal design enhances glare-free night vision while maximizing path illumination. The luminous intensities range from 689 for the 8W all the way up to 1339 lumens for the 12W, while the maximum candela values range from 447 to 1170 cd! All offer lighting of color rendering index exceeding 80. The rugged, industry-standard luminaires feature a black-colored, lightweight and corrosion-resistant ADC12 die-cast aluminum housing and a clear, tempered-glass lens. The series boasts a wide ambient operating temperature range of ~-22F to ~+113F (~-30C to ~+45C) and is IP65 rated: they are protected against water jets from any direction, making them suitable for outdoor locations. Additionally, the solid-state design of these LED spot and flood lights renders them impervious to high shock and vibration, frequent switching and environmental extremes. They emit only minimal amount of heat, and little to no ultraviolet or infrared light. The easily adjustable U-bracket offers multiple mounting options. With average lumen maintenance of more than 100,000 hours, and energy savings of up to 70 percent over their traditional metal-halide/HPS counterparts, this latest series of LEDtronics compact, low-wattage and high-lumen LED luminaires with an infinitely adjustable bracket operate reliably, year after year, and are virtually maintenance-free. They provide accent and flood lighting, indoors or outdoors, while reducing energy costs and improving landscape ambience and security. The LEDtronics GDL002 series comes with an unconditional 5-year U.S. factory warranty, and is available through LEDtronics distributors; quantity discounts are available.
NORD DRIVESYSTEMS USA expands operations with new Texas production facility
NORD DRIVESYSTEMS is a global gearmotor and control products manufacturer that has seen exponential growth over the last several years as more companies incorporate automation into their workflow. In 2022, they had a record-breaking year and achieved over $1 Billion in sales for the first time in company history. The U.S. subsidiary of this family-owned German company currently operates out of three separate facilities – Corona, CA, Charlotte, NC, and Waunakee, WI, which also serves as their U.S. corporate headquarters. To meet the increased product demands while maintaining a high level of customer service, NORD is expanding their American operations into the southern state of Texas. The new facility is located just outside of Dallas in the northeast suburb of McKinney, Texas. It will include both assembly and office space totaling over 85,000 sq. ft. and feature a full staff of production, warehouse, quality, service, customer experience, and administrative personnel. NORD expects to begin assembling unpainted gear units in this location by the end of June 2023 and painted units by the end of Q1 2024 upon completion of paint booth construction. When fully operational, the plant will have the capacity to produce 200 units per shift. “We’re very excited about this new beginning and being able to further service our customers”, says Torsten Schultz, President of NORD USA. “The new plant will allow us to increase gear unit production as well as cut down on delivery times to end users in the southern region.”
Connect tubes securely and without visual clutter
Stable, strong, configurable, and precise: Tube-based constructions are an indispensable part of building machinery and plants. High-performance clamp connectors play a critical role. JW Winco is now adding connectors of glass fiber-reinforced polyamide to its standard product range. When it comes to clamp connectors, those universal connecting elements for tube-based constructions, most people think of parts made of metal. However, JW Winco now offers clamp connectors of glass fiber-reinforced polyamide for diverse configurations. These connectors can withstand temperatures up to 212 °F (100 °C) and are used in applications where corrosion resistance is important, weight is limited, or visual appearance is a significant factor. After all, these plastic connectors feature appealingly smooth and matte surfaces and attractive coloring. These lightweight yet quality plastic parts provide a high-end solution with defined load capacities. Depending on the tightening torque of the screw connections, JW Winco lists the axial extraction force, the radial torsional moment, and the rotation moment if an articulated axis is present. The connectors are designed to fully encompass typical construction tubes to create a nonpositive clamping connection. The tubes are fixed in place with socket cap screws and nuts of stainless steel or with a hand lever (GN 911.9). These are specially adapted to the plastic used and are particularly useful when the tube constructions need to be modified frequently or without tools. JW Winco offers these plastic tube connectors in a variety of configurations and dimensions. Which means there are no obstacles to implementing even the most individual designs. And if different tube diameters are required, special ribbed adapter bushings (EN 290), also of polyamide, can be used.
MARTINS introduces Premium Stud and Hub cleaning tools
MARTINS, a global provider of high-quality tire equipment and supplies, has announced the addition of the Stud and Hub Cleaning tools to its extensive product line up through its Checkpoint Safety division. Designed with unmatched quality and superior durability, these innovative tools exemplify MARTINS’ commitment to delivering exceptional solutions to the industry. The Checkpoint 2in1 Stud and Hub Cleaning tools by MARTINS have been meticulously designed to meet the needs of professionals. With a focus on providing optimal performance, efficiency, and durability, these tools redefine the standards of stud and hub cleaning, making them the go-to choice for anyone seeking unparalleled quality. “We are proud to introduce Checkpoint Stud and Hub Cleaning tools, which sets a new standard in the market,” said Yannick Lejour, Sales Director of MARTINS. “Their exceptional durability makes them the only stud and hub cleaning tools on the market to clean up to 800 car hubs or 300 truck hubs. With our Stud and Hub Cleaning tools, automotive and truck professionals can experience unparalleled performance and ease of use, ensuring the longevity and optimal functioning of their vehicles. We believe that their unrivaled durability will make them a must-have for anyone seeking the best cleaning solution in the market.” Made in one-piece, the Stud and Hub cleaning tools are built to withstand the rigors of everyday use. There is no replacement part required and no more parts falling off while you are working. These tools are constructed from top-quality abrasive pads that guarantee longevity and exceptional performance even in the harshest conditions. With Checkpoint’s Stud and Hub Cleaning tools by MARTINS, professionals can rely on a product that will last. With the addition of the Checkpoint Stud and Hub Cleaning tools to its product range, MARTINS reaffirms its commitment to offering cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of the industry.
Getting closer
I am sitting at my computer on May 14 wondering if my T Bills will be worth anything two weeks from now. I must tell you, on a financial front, we are in deep Dudu if we default on our debts. WHAT A MESS. And if I get bored, I run to YouTube to see what I can find out about where the EV (Electric Vehicle) vs ICE (Internal Combustible Engine) debate stands. Came across one program that was pretty good where they compared EV total cost against an ICE total cost over 125,000 miles. As it turns out the EV purchase cost is well in excess of a similar ICE model, but not as much if you take into account the $7,500 credit available on new EV’s. But let’s remember you must be able to “pay” for the EV and will not get the benefit of the if you don’t have at least $7,500 tax to pay. And it is probably safe to say that you need at least a $100,000 annual income to wind up with that type of tax. The bottom line is that the total cost (cost to purchase plus operating costs) over $125,000 was about the same at $65,000. The higher purchase price of the EV plus fueling was the same as the lower-priced ICE unit with the cost of gasoline and repairs. Thinking further ahead you would expect the EV cost to decrease as demand climbs, which could reduce total cost to the point where EV wins the cost game (if the demand for electricity does not get so high that cost increases get to the point where we once again wind up with a tie). Could happen. For me, I am thinking there are other alternatives that could provide similar climate benefits for less cost. Hydrogen in some form is that option. During my visit to ProMat I had a chance to spend some time with Plug Power while they were showing off how one of their units could be used with lift trucks. Less operating hassle compared to both acid and lithium batteries but similar overall run times per charge. And having H20 as the exhaust is not bad either. Toyota has developed an engine that operates along this line and concludes that EV is not necessary if buyers use the Toyota as an alternative to EV. Dealers, as far as lift trucks go, this is an option you have to keep in mind because customers are going to ask about it. As far as our financial picture is concerned, I believe it will be tougher than expected, mainly because of the banking crunch taking place. With BK’s increasing banks take steps to review their outstanding loan portfolio to see if they have any substantial risk to consider. Being in this frame of mind banks are cutting back on new financing requests or asking for tighter coverage on existing bank loans. We discussed this topic and reaction before, and I really cannot blame the banks if they decide they must cover their butts to stay solvent. But let’s not forget that these issues also concern your customers, especially those who constantly pay late or have known cash flow problems. In the end, the banking situation will slow the economy down to where we can prepare for a hard landing. To assist with your planning for any type of downfall that may appear, last month we went through a Balance Sheet (BS) exercise where I suggested you investigate cleaning up the BS with a goal to convert as many assets as possible into CASH because you are going to need it. The alternative is a balance sheet with assets decreasing in value once the recession goes into full swing, which, of course, are part of your bank collateral which the bank will be reviewing on an annual basis. Now, let’s discuss the Income Statement (IS) which, of course, represents how we did profit-wise over a segment of time. You all have an idea of how the IS works and understand that it is entirely possible, with all the changes taking place in BUSINESS these days, that Income Statement results could put a strain on the BS, your cash position, and the overall value of the company. Consequently, knowing what is likely around the bend I do not believe you can sit back and say there are no changes required in your business. You can, of course, come to that conclusion, but please do so after you have examined all your risk factors and find nothing out of order. And heck, I haven’t even mentioned AI yet! I expect a reduction in overall revenues (net of inflation) to soften up to the point where you will be glad that you have that extra cash available because of converting assets into cash. In other words, covering your fixed and variable costs will require both a more profitable business as well as cost reduction. I also do not see the negative impacts on your business reversing itself post-recession. Some items are just too sticky to do that. So, let’s go through an IS statement review this month using typical MHEDA numbers, and see what potential changes to anticipate and plan for. To help us focus I put together a brief review of a dealer’s potential sales mix and gross profit percentages and provide my thoughts on what to expect going forward. For comparison purposes, I also added similar data from the construction dealer side. My overall comments will be addressed to lift truck dealers and not so much to the construction side. I listed the dealer’s revenue and gross profit line items and then in the far-right column indicate what I expect each line item to do (net of inflation) based on my crystal ball to date. > representing an increase in the line item. < a decrease. New Sales I expect sales levels to fall as a result of both less demand and lower