April 2012
www.wireropenews.com
The Golden Gate Bridge: Celebrating 75 Years story on page 8
The Cordage Institute: the industry’s best kept secret
story on page 22
Advertisers Index Page 79 The Golden Gate Bridge from the south side.
From the holdings of the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District. Used with Permission, www.goldengate.org
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Vol. 33, No. 4 April 23, 2012 Publisher & Editorial Director Edward J. Bluvias
Contributing Editor Barbara McGrath Spencer
Contents Features We still can’t get enough of the Golden Gate Bridge 75 years later ......................... 8
This national landmark is honored in movies, books, posters, documentaries and much more in its seven and a half decade history.
Web sling company partners with mobile boat hoist manufacturer ............................................... 14 Circulation Director Patricia Bluvias
All-Lift Systems, Inc. combines flexibility and mobility to lift vessels of all sizes.
The industry’s best kept secret: The Cordage Institute ........................................... 22 Graphics & Layout Don Tywoniw - 2D Graphics
This Wayne, PA organization sets the standard for synthetic rope.
Is this a good time to buy or sell a business? ..... 28 Website: www.wireropenews.com
Advice for those considering this type of business decision in todays volatile economy.
Workers’ compensation controlling your costs ........................................... 34
Business owners and informed employees can work together to deal with the rising costs of accidents and medical bills.
ISSN 0740-1809 Wire Rope News & Sling Technology is published by-monthly by Wire Rope News, LLC, 511 Colonia Blvd., Colonia, New Jersey 07067-2819. (908) 486-3221. Fax No. (732) 396-4215. Address all correspondence concerning advertising, production, editorial, and circulation to Wire Rope News, LLC, P.O. Box 871, Clark, New Jersey 070660871. Subscription rates: $20 per year, domestic: $30 per year foreign: $25 per year, Canadian. Quantity discounts of three or more subscriptions available at $15 each per year, domestic: $25 each per year, foreign: $18 each per year, Canadian. Single copies $4 per issue, domestic: $6 per issue, foreign; $5 per issue, Canadian. Copyright © 2012 by Wire Rope News, LLC, 511 Colonia Blvd., Colonia, New Jersey 07067. All rights reserved. Publisher reserves the right to reject any material for any reason deemed necessary. Printed in Canada Published bi-monthly; Oct., Dec., Feb., April, June, Aug. Issued 3rd week of month published. Insertion orders, classified, and editorial copy must be received before the 20th of month preceding date of publication (e.g. May 20th for June issue). Email: info@wireropenews.com
Cover photo:
The Golden Gate Bridge from the south side. From the holdings of the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District. Used with Permission, www.goldengate.org
Departments Advertiser’s Index . .....................................................79 Steel Industry News ...................................................38 The Inventor’s Corner . ...............................................59 New Products .............................................................74 People in the News ....................................................77 Classified ....................................................................80 Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
7
We still can’t get enough of the Golden Gate Bridge 75 years later By Peter Hildebrandt
The recent film “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” has a number of familiar actors in its cast. Yet another star in the film could easily get top-billing too. The Golden Gate Bridge plays a huge role in the action as it has in other films, documentaries, posters, postcards and imaginations over the past seven and a half decades.
T
he bridge survives the movie’s pivotal battle between drug-empowered simians and outraged, defensive Homo sapiens. But survival of the plan to construct the bridge itself certainly was not a given, both from the standpoint of sheer physical possibility and the more mundane but equally critical aspect of financing the structure’s building. The idea of a bridge spanning the expanse of water known as the Golden Gate Strait was tossed around for a long time before work started on the bridge we see today. It was first introduced as Golden Gate Bridge operating engineer on main cable.
From the holdings of the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District. Used with Permission, www.goldengate.org
8
an idea in the late 1800s. At one point there was a little bit of momentum from Charles Crocker, a railroad entrepreneur. A bridge here was visualized as another connection to the great Redwood Empire to the north as the city of San Francisco continued to grow rapidly, especially in the 1920s and 30s. Construction of the Golden Gate Bridge – which spans the water separating San Francisco and Marin County - took place between January, 1933 and May, 1937. There were ten prime contractors each with a specific task. For example, the massive cables were constructed and supplied by John A. Roebling’s and Sons Company. The structure is 1.7, 8,981 feet or 2,737 meters in length. The main span of the bridges is 4,200 feet or 1,280 meters long. The bridge’s towers stand 746 feet above the strait; for comparison the Washington Monument is just over 555 feet tall. The diameter of one main cable including the exterior wrapping is 36 3/8 inches or approximately .92 meters. The length of one main cable is 7,650 feet or 2,332 meters. The total length of galvanized steel wire used in both main cables is 80,000 miles or 129,000 kilometers. The number of galvanized steel wires in one main cable which are each 0.192 inches in diameter is 27,572. The number of bundles or strands of galvanized steel wire in one main cable is 61, with an average of 452 wires in each bundle. The new bridge opened up what is known geographically as the Redwood Empire, all the counties north of San Francisco. Mendocino and Del Norte counties, which reach to the Oregon border, are part of the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District (District). They saw the future and the importance of growing in order to bring more people to California. There was a short period of controversy surrounding disagreements over
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
the geology of the rock underneath the building site, according to Mary Currie, bridge spokesperson. Opinions differed regarding the serpentine rock on the south side of the strait where the bridge’s south tower would be constructed 1,125 feet off-shore. “The project started in controversy,” adds Currie. “Not everybody thought the bridge could be built; not everybody thought it could be paid for. There has always been two sides to everything that happens here.” The serpentine rock was subsequently load-tested and determined to be sound enough for the bridge’s south tower. This structure was built 1,125 feet offshore in the tumultuous tides of the strait. San Francisco had a clear interest in the bridge’s construction and then when Joseph Strauss, the chief engineer came along and promoted the venture for some ten years before the bridge was finally built, the Golden Gate Bridge project was embraced. “The so-called ‘old guard’—the railroad and ferry companies—along with some local conservationists, fought the project,” says Currie. “Yet the project did prevail ultimately. It was the people who went to the polls in 1930, just one year into the Great Depression, and voted to back the construction bonds to build the bridge, using their homes, vineyards, and businesses as collateral. Since that vote, the famed span has been dubbed locally as ‘the People’s Bridge’. There was no state or federal funds available then to build the Golden Gate.” Despite the possible riskiness of the move, people believed in it. They believed it would open things up and improve their economic status ultimately. The idea was – and this did happen – that the bonds would be paid off with a toll collected from those driving across the Golden Gate Bridge. These tolls paid the bridge off in 1971. Tolls for continued on page 10
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continued from page 8 this payoff were collected starting with the bridge’s opening in 1937. Traffic on the bridge became very heavy and congested in the 1960s when automobile travel really took off just after the 1950s, according to Currie. “Everyone had their own cars; life was good. But we had a huge traffic congestion problem. We in turn went into the public transit business to help solve the mounting congestion. The state legislature changed our enabling legislation as we were created by them in 1923 as the entity to build, own and operate the bridge as a special public agency of the state.” The state gave the District the go ahead in 1969 to start a bus and ferry system. Approximately one half of their bridge tolls now subsidize the area’s public transit system which in turn keeps the traffic on the bridge more manageable. This is not an inexpensive undertaking due to rising fuel and operation costs for the area’s transit system. The bridge toll is currently set at six dollars for cash payers, while 70% of the traffic use the electronic tolling system, FasTrak and presently receive a one dollar toll discount. Joseph Strauss was the person who is probably most responsible for getting the bridge project completed. He did all the PR work, campaigning for the passage of the 1930 bond measure. Then he worked with a team of the best bridge engineers of the day, including two New York-based engineers, O.H. Ammann and Leon S. Moisseif as well as the University of California professor Charles Derleth, Jr. These three
men formed his advisory board. “It was Ammann and Moisseiff who shed light on the idea Strauss had for the bridge,” adds Currie. “He had started with what was a cantilever, hybrid suspension bridge, bulky and clunkylooking. They convinced Strauss to go with the graceful suspension bridge that we see today; Strauss was not a designer of suspension bridges, he was a drawbridge designer and builder. Strauss came from a family in Cincinnati greatly influenced by the arts.” In 1921 Strauss submitted his first design for a bridge spanning the Golden Gate Strait to the city and county of San Francisco. “It is what was called the ‘ugly bridge’ by the local newspapers,” adds Currie. “By 1929 it morphed into the suspension bridge that we see today. But Strauss does not - in his chief engineer’s report of 1937 - state when the bridge design transformed into the full suspension bridge nor does he give his team credit for influencing the ultimate design.” Charles A. Ellis, who did all the calculations for the loads on the towers was hired and then fired by Strauss. Strauss was the kind of guy who seemingly did not give credit where credit was due,” says Currie. Strauss surrounded himself with this team of excellent people as he was a master at finding the right people to do the job. “Ellis is finally gaining the credit he is due for his vital contribution to the final design of the Golden Gate. In the Report of the Chief Engineer, Volume II released in 2007, the book’s preface clearly acknowledges his role. As an organization, we had never done that
Compacting machines were used to shape the main cable.
From the holdings of the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District. Used with Permission, www.goldengate.org
10
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
Painter on the main cable.
From the holdings of the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District. Used with Permission, www.goldengate.org
for Ellis. That’s why I find history so fascinating – we all have our interpretations and perceptions.” One of the biggest challenges was constructing the bridge’s south tower 1,125 feet offshore. This was something that had never been done before. They started with an access trestle that extended 1,100 out into the water. It was damaged twice during construction. At one point during a heavy fog a ship ran into it. At another time there was a tumultuous storm with winds and gales that lasted a couple of days and that damaged it. Once the test of getting the access trestle in place was met, then came that of how to build a foundation for the bridge, 110 feet below the water’s surface. The idea was that a caisson would be brought in, pre-fabricated and it would be plopped down on the surface before the water would be pumped out. “That didn’t work,” explains Currie. “They ended up doing five different iterations of plans of how to actually start building the foundation for the tower out in the middle of water. The final plan was the building of a fender with 22 different sections built from the bedrock up and sealed together to create this object we call the ‘giant bathtub’. The water was then pumped out of that. The concrete foundation for the bridge was built inside the fender. None of that was an easy task to figure out; there were some huge challenges there.” Other challenges included the great heights involved with the bridge that the workers had to face. Strauss insisted on using every single different continued on page 12
continued from page 10 safety system available, according to Currie. He brought in ones that had never been used for bridge construction before. Some of these things included hardhats, safety goggles, respirators and the safety net installed before the construction of the roadway. Eleven deaths occurred during the construction of the structure. The first didn’t occur until the fall of 1936. Then in February, 1937; in another accident shortly thereafter 10 men died at once when some scaffolding fell through the safety net. Two of the men in this group of twelve were able to hold onto the net. The other ten were not and were swept out to sea. Despite these tragic losses of life, these numbers beat the record at the time. The industry record then was that for every million dollars spent on such a project, one life would be lost. That would have translated into 35 lives lost. With all of the safety mechanisms being used on the Golden Gate Bridge project they were able to beat that record. Among the new safety equipment was the now-ubiquitous hardhat. The Bullard Hardhat Company, a firm still in existence today, supplied the hard hats for the job. The Golden Gate Bridge has under-
12
Workers on the main cable of the Golden Gate Bridge.
From the holdings of the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District. Used with Permission, www.goldengate.org
gone several significant upgrades over its 75-year history. Its roadway deck was replaced entirely in the 1980s, a public safety railing was added between the roadway and sidewalks in 2003 and its 250 pairs of vertical suspender ropes were replaced in the 1970s. The span also being retrofit to withstand an earthquake of 8.3 Richter magnitude occurring on a nearby fault. The bridge is located between two major fault lines—
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
the San Andreas Fault is ten miles to the west of the bridge while on the east is the Hayward Fault. A seismic retrofit project was started in 1997. It is not yet completed but work continues one step at a time, according to Currie. “We are also currently repainting our main cables. We’re out at mid-span right now with scaffolding on both the east side and west side cables. That project started in April last year and it will probably take us six years to complete the painting. We’ve already painted the cable below the roadway level; but one of our primary focuses for our paint crews now is those main cables. Cables are inspected by unwrapping the exterior wire and placing big wedges down into the cables to inspect the actual innards of the wires on the inside. Our wires are in great shape inside. But the exterior wrap and the paint on that is starting to reach the end of its useful life.” Though the sequel to the latest Planet of the Apes movie may have to show some repairs being done to the bridge in order for the next film to make sense, the real life bridge is doing just fine. The bridge that often vanishes into the area’s ubiquitous fog stands ready for its next 75 years of service. WRN
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Web sling company partners with mobile boat hoist manufacturer By Peter Hildebrandt
When we think of lift equipment for boats of up to 1,000 metric tons, mobility may not be something which immediately comes to mind. But one Appleton, Wisconsin company, All-Lift Systems, Inc. has found great success over the years simply by combining lifting with the flexibility and mobility to lift vessels of all sizes and hull configurations.
T
he idea was created before the 1940’s but the first mobile boat hoist was patented in 1945 for the world’s first mobile boat hoist came about in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, in 1945. Nine years later the company based on this product and concept was established. It would acquire its current name, Marine Travelift, Inc. in the 1960’s. Ever since, this firm has had a long-standing reputation as a marine industry leader, recognized for its tradition of excellence on a global scale, according to Jason Johnson, North American sales manager for Marine Travelift, Inc. “It all began right here in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin,” says Johnson. This was driven by the need to store boats onshore during the winter months, as well as the ability to service them throughout the season.” The Marine Travelift cranes have always been mobile, according to Johnson. The need for vessel mobility was the basis that founded Marine Travelift. Prior to that, boat hoists were either fixed in location or on rails. Be-
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… to fuel barges, the Travelift can handle almost any job.
14
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
marine forklifts, self-propelled transporters and other related marine lifting products, in addition to having an extensive U.S. and international dealer network, with more than 3,500 units in service worldwide,” says Johnson. “We’ve gone from marina-boatyard environments to being well-established in the shipyard market. Although we were in shipyards with our 500-ton machines in the 1980s, certainly within the past ten years, that involvement has also grown as the market seeks and requires larger vessels to be built; therefore larger machines to do the lifting have come to be a large part of our business.” Johnson’s background is in the marina-boatyard business. He actually came from operating these machines in the field himself, starting out as a client of Marine Travelift. Johnson first worked with Marine Travelift as a client. His experience with the mobile boat hoists and marine products came from working in boatyards in Minnesota, Michigan and Maine before settling in Wisconsin. In 2008, Johnson was hired by Macontinued on page 16
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continued from page 14 rine Travelift as a sales engineer. “I like to believe my background gives me perspective from a client’s standpoint and I’m better able to understand what’s important to them, what’s new with these machines and how we can help them,” adds Johnson. He holds a B.S. degree in Marina Management from the Maine Maritime Academy and serves on the International Marina Institute (IMI) Advisory Committee. The key concept with Marine Travelift is that the mobile boat hoists are not just designed for transporting and lifting boats out of the water, but that they are also investments for a business’ continued growth. They allow shipyards and marinas to offer additional services for repair, service and moving. The mobile boat hoists are also patented with options such as allwheel electronic steering to provide maximum flexibility, maneuverability and precision handling while operating in confined spaces. “Vessels are continuing to increase in size and we are seeing a demand for the ability to handle larger boats,” says Johnson. “Throughout roughly the past decade, we’ve seen that demand grow to the point where we compete and complement dry docks in shipyards for very large vessels, barges and even mega yachts. “On the marine side, certainly with the expanded capacities we are looking
The web slings that were used for this project were all 8”, 10” and 12” wide, 4 ply slings with an ultimate safe working load capacity, when the slings were in place, of 2,200,000 lbs. The slings, themselves, weighed approximately 20,000 lbs.
to build a 1,000 ton – and greater - lift so we are keeping our eyes and ears open, working with customers on even larger machines. Though the warmer times of the year are when shipping activities are greatest, in the winter months typically these are some of our busiest times on the manufacturing side of operations. Our product is literally reaching out around the globe; we deliver it to just about anywhere. Ma-
Do you have news that belongs in this publication? Have you promoted someone in your company? Made a major acquisition? Received an award for some type of achievement? Do you have a product or service you would like to introduce to our industry? If you tell us about it, we’d be very happy to consider it for publication.
It’s free!
All it will cost you is the time it takes to write it up and send it to us. Become visible to our readers. You might be surprised what a little publicity can do for your business. Send your news to:
P.O. Box 871 Clark, NJ 07066 Fax: 732-396-4215 • Email: info@wireropenews.com
16
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
rine Travelift doesn’t really have a typically slow and busy time - everything completely depends upon the market.” “Our shipping activities are at their greatest during the warmer months; however, the winter months produce busy times for our manufacturing department. Our product is literally used around the globe and we deliver to just about anywhere.” All-Lift Systems, Inc. of Appleton, Wisconsin partnered with Marine Travelift in providing them with slings. All-Lift Systems has been in business for years, starting back in 1981. They supplied the required synthetic webbing boat slings to Marine Travelift to outfit their largest mobile boat lift, a 1000-ton machine. “All-Lift Systems has supplied both nylon and polyester web boat slings to Marine Travelift for years and it has been the trend for the machines to continually evolve into larger capacities due to market demand,” says Bob Molitor, All-Lift Systems owner. “Marine Travelift has really stepped up their efforts in becoming the world’s largest supplier of mobile boat hoists and we have enjoyed our partnership with them during this growth.” Marine Travelift has quite a few machines in the marketplace in the 500-ton capacity and up range, so the request for slings for a 1,000 ton machine was not a difficult undertaking to conceive according to Molitor, it just was an additional challenge to add that amount of work to their production decontinued on page 18
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continued from page 16 partment and still maintain their existing web sling business with not only Marine Travelift, but numerous other customers as well. “The 1000 ton machine has been wellreceived by the customer and we have already been supplying them additional product to obtain the full utilization of this unique machine,” adds Molitor. All-Lift Sytems has two locations, one in Appleton, Wisconsin and the other in Iron Mountain, Michigan. They started out at U.P. Riggers and Tool Supply some 30 years ago. The original company was formed in Iron Mountain, Michigan. When work took them to Wisconsin on a regular basis, they found a better fit with their current name and location for the company. The firm’s name was changed about ten years ago. “We’re primarily what you would consider a rigging house, manufacturing web slings, chain slings and wire rope slings,” says Bob Molitor, All-Lift Systems owner. “We represent over 200 manufacturers of material handling products; these include overhead hoists, lifting beams and clamps.” Molitor worked for a local competitor for approximately five years, then left
to start his present company. “I felt my efforts could be better rewarded on my own,” says Molitor. “I was given the opportunity to get in on the ground floor of starting my own company with partnering with a larger Midwestern rigging house. That did not work out real well, having partners, and I bought them out about three years after we started the company.” All-Lift Systems picked up their own equipment on the market, bought new sewing machines, presses and test beds. They are able to handle machine shop work, doing a lot of repairs and rebuilds. “We do most of the in house repairs and maintenance on the machinery and things like that ourselves,” says Molitor. In 1999 Molitor acquired a DeMag crane distributorship selling and servicing overhead bridge cranes. “That pretty much started us down the road to becoming a service company as well as a sling house where we now have 18 to 20 full time service techs on the road performing inspections, repairs and installations of overhead bridge cranes and hoists. That division has really complemented our material handling side beyond being just a rigging house.” They cover Wisconsin and the upper
When selecting the proper shackle to meet your demanding applications, think OVERALL PERFORMANCE. At a minimum, the Federal Specification requires that all shackles must have the strength to lift to their rated capacity. But to be a Crosby carbon steel shackle, as well as other forged Crosby products, strength is just one of the performance requirements that must be met before our name goes on the product. Crosby shackles provide the following essential performance characteristics that allow you the peace of mind required when making a critical lift. • • • •
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peninsula of Michigan in most aspects of their product range such as slings, hoists and cranes, fall protection and a wide array of material handling products. “This area of our business has been a real growth area, however an extremely challenging one,” adds Molitor. “It is not unusual for our service techs to have to respond to a call at 3:00 in the morning to come out and get the customer’s crane up and running. We don’t normally stock any 10 or 20 ton hoists, so in many cases we have to be as creative as possible to get the customer up and running without them losing any valuable production time. We offer 24 hour service, 365 days of the year and although that can be stressful on our employees, it certainly has helped us grow.” The company currently has 60 employees total. They have six individuals who have been at the firm for over 15 years, three for over 25 years and about a dozen who have been with AllLift Systems for over 10 years. They have a few manufacturers’ reps or sales agents that are independent contractors out on the road selling for them. One particular company has agents out in Pennsylvania and in North Dakota. continued on page 20
Additional Features: • Forged - Quenched and Tempered, with alloy pins or bolts. • Can meet DNV impact requirements of 42 joules at - 20C. • Crosby screw pin and bolt type carbon shackles have Type Approval and certification in accordance with ABS 2006 Steel Vessel Rules 1-1-17.7, and ABS Guide for Certification of Cranes. • RFID Equipped - 25 metric tons and larger.
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Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
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boat slings for Marine Travelift.” continued from page 18 Marine Travelift’s mobile boat hoist Energy is the fastest growing market segment for All-Lift Systems, accord- machine - the world’s largest- required ing to Molitor. They sell primarily to a huge amount of work by All-Lift Systhe end user directly and don’t nor- tems and their supplier of the webmally get much resale for distribution bing, Southern Weaving of Greenville, other than a few select people and a South Carolina. Some of that webbing few select companies. They constantly Southern Weaving produced had a tenoffer training classes in the use of their sile strength of over 12,000 pounds per equipment. They have their eye on a square inch in order to supply the regroup of key employees to take over the quired slings for lifts of up to 2,200,000 business eventually. At present Moli- pounds. The amount of webbing used tor feels they don’t have as much an was a tremendous quantity, approxiemployment problem as an employee mately six miles of webbing, 25 miles problem. They can’t find skilled work- of thread, over 2,100 square feet of rubers here in Wisconsin; that’s a chal- ber pads and over 1,800 hours of labor to produce. The total order weighed in lenge for them, according to Molitor. All-Lift Systems has just celebrated at over 10 tons. “The undertaking of this order was their 30th year in business, serving the industrial and construction mar- a tremendous challenge to our produckets in all aspects of material handling tion department with some of the indithroughout Wisconsin and in some ar- vidual slings and wear pads weighing eas of the Upper Peninsula of Michi- between 200 and 300 pounds each,” gan. “Marine Travelift is the largest says Molitor. “We really did not start manufacturer of mobile boat hoists to grasp the full scope of the order until in the world and we’ve been supply- some of the required materials started ing those slings for about 20 years or to arrive at our facility. It did not overmore,” says Molitor. “We are the larg- whelm us, but it certainly was a chalest buyer of wide web in the country lenge that we were quite proud of.” Scott Keeler, Director of Sales for and are the largest boat sling fabricator in the country. From January to De- Southern Weaving points out that supplying cember, 2011 we had made over 2000 they’re CW_AD_PS_0410_WRN:Layout 1 4/29/10 5:59 AM Page 1material to All-Lift
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Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
Systems in order for them to fill their orders for Marine Travelift’s largest marine hoist. The new webbing designed for this hoist is a 12,000 Lb/ Inch nylon product. Engineering new products is fairly standard for this Greenville, South Carolina company; Southern Weaving has been in business for over 85 years. They’ve been supplying the nylon webbing for All-Lift Systems that is used by Marine Travelift. The webbing is shipped in rolls of their standard yellow color, which All-Lift Systems then assembles into slings for boat hoisting. “There is a growing demand for our material especially in the area of hoists such as those for the marine and boat hoist industry,” says Keeler. “We are pretty much a niche manufacturer supplying a great deal of nylon and polyester webbing for slings and fall protection harnesses in the construction industry, keeping workers safe on the job. This is not an industry which will be moving overseas anytime soon. Due to liability issues and safety standards, manufacturers we serve prefer to deal with a U.S. company they can depend on. “We’re looking ahead to our business continuing to keep on course and grow for years to come”. WRN
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The industry’s best kept secret: The Cordage Institute By Michael J. Major
The Cordage Institute plays an invaluable role in setting standards for synthetic rope.
“W
e’re the best kept secret in the industry,” says David Richards, technical director of the Cordage Institute, headquartered in Wayne, PA, Richards himself being based in Houston, TX. “Most people aren’t aware of how we came about or what we do today.” This is, to say the least, unusual, especially for an organization which is perhaps the oldest in the industry today and performs an invaluable service. One way to approach this issue is to trace the history of the Institute, and see how it’s outgrown its original purposes and evolved to perform the valuable services it does today. The first thing to note is that the “Cordage” in the organization’s title refers to cords or ropes. This implies natural fiber ropes. “The Cordage Institute was started in 1920, with its original purpose being to stabilize prices on imported fiber from the Philippines,” Richards says. “To do that today would be illegal. For most of its existence the Institute was a lobbying group, working to slow down imports of natural fiber rope.” These early ropes typically came from jute, sisal, or the marijuana plants, which also produced hemp. Then, in about 1856, a naval officer discovered the abaca fiber in the Philippines, and brought a couple of bales back out of which was fashioned what was to become known as Manila rope, by far the strongest natural fiber. This fiber became associated with ship usage. During World War II, when the Japanese took control of the Philippines, it cut off the supply of Manila rope. During the latter part of the war the U.S. reverted to growing marijuana plants in the Ohio River Valley to extract the hemp. When the Japanese also cut off the supply of silk to the U.S., used in everything from socks to scarves to parachutes, DuPont responded with its discovery of nylon. One of nylon’s first military applications was made by the British, who, when wooden gliders were being pulled off the runways,
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used the nylon as a shock absorber, in the form of a three strand half inch diameter rope. In the early 1950s polyethylene rope was discovered. And then many other synthetic or man-made fibers followed, becoming stronger, more varied, and more price competitive. Manila rope, meanwhile, has been found to be too heavy and cumbersome, and has been eliminated from most usages. The Cordage Institute was also going through its own evolution. “In the early 1970s, the government decided to get out of the business of standards writing,” Richards says. “They decided it was a waste of time and a waste of government money. For military specifications they said they would use industry standards when and if they were available. The problem was there were no industry standards available as far as the wire rope and fiber rope industries went.” As a result, Richards continues, the Cordage Institute decided to write the fiber rope standards to a general consensus. This represented a decisive change which made the Institute relevant and important today. “Up to that time, each manufacturer had its own standards and catalogs, but there was not a single standard that covered all manufacturers,” says Richards. “So our purpose was to establish standards in the industry, primarily emphasizing quality, and at the same time the safe usage of fiber rope. There were a lot of accidents over the years when a rope broke. As a result, safety is on everybody’s mind, especially the old timers who want to pass on what they’ve learned to the younger generations, on how the product has to be used properly.” The Institute has 80 members, of whom 31 are manufacturers of rope; 16 are associate members of whom 13 are fiber manufacturers and 3 are the manufacturers of the equipment that makes the rope; with 9 affiliate members; 11 reseller suppliers, 5 technical and testing members,the rest being ac-
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
ademics; and government officials with the latter in the form of the Navy with a representative on the board. The executive committee of president and vice president, along with the board meet twice a year to organize meetings, attend to the bookkeeping and other management matters. Meanwhile, technical committees evolve standards for areas such as an 8-strand braided rope to tensile strength and testing limits for any particular rope. There are currently some 40 to 50 different standards. The technical side meets three times a year and communicates its findings to the corporate side. Richards, who heads up the technical side, describes his job “is to provide technical expertise, answer questions when they come up or direct questions to the right people who have answers, and to be in front of the public for the industry.” Richards explains that the new direction of the Institute corresponded to the steady growth of man-made fibers replacing natural ones. For instance, in the early 1970s DuPont came out with KEVLAR, a very strong, very low stretch rope used for some applications in the fiber rope industry. Then came high modular polyethylene (HMPE), very strong with very light weight. One application Richards describes is that “if you’re loading heavy pieces of equipment 10,000 feet in the ocean, once you get to a certain point the weight of the wire rope exceeds that of the load. But since the weight in water of HMPE is zero, that rope can go down to that depth and pick up any load the crane is capable of carrying. This has opened up production for oil in deep water considerably.” Another synthetic rope Richards describes is liquid crystal polymer (LCP), which is marketed under the brand name of Vectran. “This particular product is unique in that it’s high heat resis tance, very high strength, and very low stretch. It has very little creep, which continued on page 24
continued from page 22 means that if a rope has a load on it to 50% of its breaking strength, it will gradually get longer and longer until it breaks. LCP has much less of this creep or stretch, up to 75-80%. It can be used in small diameters and is very good for the seismic industries.” Meanwhile, while these new specialized products are being introduced, nylon is still being used in many applications. “When you are designing a rope, you have to make a decision on the construction you are going to use,” Richards says. “For it can vary considerably. For instance, some years back, a little solid braid cord made out of cotton was made to hold an open window up. Now it’s not needed anymore. And something different was used for a clothes line before dryers came along, or a rope to tie up the dog. Each is designed for a different purpose. And, of course, it gets more complicated with synthetic ropes used for industrial purposes. Sometimes stretch is necessary, and all ropes have some stretch. Sometimes you want the stretch, other times you don’t. There are so many different applications, and each rope has to be designed for a specific purpose. “In this era ropes are being designed
for specific applications. We have the technology to design a rope, to manufacture it, put it into service, and pretty well predict how long it will last, how to handle and protect it, and service it for wear and tear. Every couple years it seems a new rope comes out, which represents some kind of improvement. We have to know what’s coming next, to be aware and keep abreast of it. That’s a part of our job.” Does this mean that wire rope is doomed to follow the path into obsolescence of Manila and other natural fiber ropes? “Not necessarily, there’s still a place for both,” Richards replies. “I once worked for a company that was doing a big job and using a lot of wire rope. I brought in some HMPE fiber rope. At 7.2 inches in diameter, we tested it and it broke at 4,200,000 pounds, the same at which wire rope would break. But the HMPE was much lighter. Yet wire rope was still used in many of the applications, because it is more heat resistant and much more capable of withstanding abrasion. These are the two man reasons wire rope is still here to stay.” Wire and synthetic ropes often go hand-in-hand. And Richards person-
ally works with a variety of organizations which set standards for both types of rope. “We have a line of communication with the Web Sling & Tie Down Association for both web and round slings,” Richard says. He also works with AWRF. As a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers he’s served on the B-30.9 committee which establishes standards for everything below the hook, round slings, web slings, fiber rope slings, chain slings, wire rope and wire mesh slings. We meet periodically to upgrade and publish our findings.” Richards also works with the International Standards Organization (ISO) to try to achieve international standards, for man-made fiber rope. This brings us to the question of why the Institute is not better known. Synthetic ropes are well known within the industry of course, but many are not that clear about the Institute’s history or the Institute’s role as standard setter. But the Institute is far less well known in terms of the end user. And this is in the context of countries such as India, China, Korea, and Mexico flooding the U.S. market with what continued on page 26
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continued from page 24 he terms commodity products such as 8-strand nylon polyester polypro pylene, which are often low quality and don’t adhere to standards. “I recently spoke with a large shipping company that was complaining about its imported ropes, but didn’t know they could be verified by an unbiased third party, that they could stipulate the stand ards, and make sure they got a proper product,” Richards says. People like this, he continues, tend to find out about the product only through
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accident. The Institute doesn’t advertise, Richards says. Why not? “Why don’t we do more education? We ask ourselves that all of the time. How can we get the word out? I give presentations. But it’s a rather boring subject and there’s not a whole lot of people lining up.” A more viable option, at least for now, he says, is getting large organizations on their side, which they’ve done in the past by helping the California Highway Patrol establish tie-down standards, and currently working with the Coast Guard to establish standards
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
for fibers used for shipping. Richards explains that domestic fiber rope manufacturers have been, like domestic wire rope manufacturers, greatly reduced over the years due to imports. “The Europeans have accepted international standards and are good competitors, but they too are suffering from imports,” says Richards. The domestic fiber manufacturers that have survived, he adds, have done so because they’ve found a niche market of high quality products which they specialize in. The exporters of cheap fiber rope are not at this time about to get together with any international standard setting body, but Richards does not give up hope. “If customers stop buying their products, then these companies will have to adapt. When I first got involved in the industry, I remember I tried to talk manufacturers here to adapt to common standards, and couldn’t do it. We’ve come a long way in my lifetime so I’m hopeful about the future.” Richards, at age 72, has lived a life spanning many changes in the industry. He enlisted in the Coast Guard at age 17, served for four years, was out five years, then back in during the Vietnam War for nine years, and along the way worked in a variety rigging shops, owning his own fiber rope warehouse for a few years. In fact, in addition to all of his duties with the Institute and the other standards organization, he still works a regular job. Richards has been married to his wife, Barbara, for 42 years. Both their mates in their first marriages died young, so they came together with three children each, so when they got married they had two 9-year olds, two 7-year olds, and two 2-year olds, born two weeks apart. They now have 14 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Two sons and two grandsons are involved in the rope business. When asked about hobbies, he replies, “Barbara and I like to flip houses. I’ll do all the wood working, plumbing, wiring, ceilings and the rest, and then we’ll sell it for a profit.” He adds that, at age 72, he doesn’t think he’ll have the energy to continue this pastime. One wonders what allows him the energy to do all he has done, which also includes con sulting, expert witness work, and, for a time, ranching. Perhaps Richards answers this question when he says, “I enjoy what I do. When I’m asked by somebody, ‘how do I splice this, and I say, ‘this is the way it’s done’ I feel it makes my whole life worthwhile.” WRN
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Is this a good time to buy or sell a business? By Michael J. Major
The short answer is no. It’s neither a buyer’s nor seller’s market. Though there are some exceptions, the best general advice for either a potential buyer or seller of a rigging business is to wait for an economic recovery.
U
sually, in terms of whatever item there might be that is up for sale, it’s either a buyer’s or a seller’s market. The advantages typically accrue to one side, the disadvantages to the other. But, in the case of buying or selling a small to medium size business in today’s economic climate, it’s a bad time to either buy or sell such a business. This is the considered opinion of Dick Pierce, owner of the Watson Company, founded in 1927, the oldest brokerage firm in Spokane, WA. Pierce speaks from two perspectives. The first is that of a certified business intermediary (CBI), one of Pierce’s second perspective is that only about ten brokers awarded that of his having a wide and varied expedesignation from the Chicago, IL-based rience as a small businessman before International Business1Brokers Asso-3:09 becoming a broker. CW_AD111308:Layout 11/17/08 PM Page 1 ciation (IBBA). To start, Pierce makes it clear he
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Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
is not referring to large corporate mergers or acquisitions, which he says “is a very different animal,” but rather the medium to small business, especially in the $4-5 million range, and smaller. “The tenuous financial condition of the country over the past three or so years has put businesses in the position where they are not profitable. Some obviously have gone out of business. Others may be losing profitability, and just hanging on. This doesn’t bode well for selling a business. For the value is based on a company’s track record for success, and not just for the past year or so.” This, Pierce continues, puts the small business owner in a difficult position. “There are some who choose to hold on, continued on page 30
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continued from page 28 to endure this difficulty, in the hope that the economy will turn around. But others come to me for an evaluation as a prelude to selling. I review their profit and loss statements and other records. Many have gone backwards and still want to sell.” Pierce says. He cites a client who wanted to sell a business he had about six years. The business was making no more than $6,000 a year, with both owners taking $3,000 for pay. “It’s interesting to note how many people out there believe someone will pay $100,000 for a business which nets only $6,000 which the owners put into their pockets. This attitude has always been there, but it seems to be increasing. Sellers think their businesses are worth more than they are, think they can do the impossible, then get increasingly desperate when they are unable to. Unfortunately, they have nothing to sell except their assets, which may not amount to much.” The flip side of the coin, Pierce explains, also makes it difficult for the buyer. There are fewer businesses up for sale, and those that are are often in the condition of ever decreasing profitability. The hope for a turn-around, Pierce maintains, is only that, a hope. “Even when there is a recovery, as happened when Reagan took office, it took about three years before profits started returning,” Pierce says. Add to this the many regulatory changes and additions in terms of the environment, health care, taxes, and so on, with further uncertainty created by the political gridlock, would immediately affect the buyer as it now does the current owner. The potential buyer also needs to know what other responsibilities he may be purchasing in terms of current benefits, retirement plans, and the like, Pierce continues. Pierce also counsels potential buyers to purchase only within an industry they are familiar with, so they can analyze the potential purchased the context of its viability within its geograph ical area, and the types of customers it serves, some more stable than others. Add to all of these obstacles the current difficulty in finding financing, for seller and buyer alike. “Seller financing or the hope that buyers can finance on their own have also become more challenging,” Pierce says. He explains that the only real source for financing the purchase of a business these days is through the Small Business Administration (SBA), which will typically work with banks guaranteeing up to 70
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
percent of a loan to a buyer. At the same time, it’s become much more stringent for the buyer to qualify in terms of his credit history, experience, and financial viability. At the same time the buyer will have to put down about 15 percent, and the seller 15 percent. Moreover, the seller often is not allowed to collect on his loan for a couple of year to make sure that there is sufficient cash flow so putting the seller in second place if something goes wrong. None of this is conducive to making a good deal appear that much easier for either buyer or seller. On top of this there has been a significant change in the way that banks operate over the past few years. Here it’s helpful to dovetail back to Pierce’s prior experience as a small business man prior to his becoming a broker. “I’ve been on the fringes of business since I was a kid, and have always enjoyed it,” Pierce says. “I started out helping a neighbor in his fire extinguisher sales and repair service. I sold parts and servicing, and learned the basic entrepreneural concept.” After serving in the military, Pierce was a police officer for five years, before going into the private investigation, polygraph, and security business in Nevada. Pierce owned his own business for almost 15 years before he sold it. Although he had an education in both criminal and political science, and, he says “did well in attracting clients for my contract services, I was not knowledgeable in the economics of it at all, and had a steep learning curve. Thankfully, I had a good hometown banker, who took me aside and was instrumental in having me attend seminars to learn how to project costs as well as how to borrow money on long-term needs and not just short-term ones. So I was able to grow, learning both how to borrow money correctly and pay it back, while making a profit. “For a learning experience like that in those days you wanted to establish a good relationship with your banker. Then the branch managers had a certain authority in terms of credit loans. They had a cap for loans up to $50,000 or $100,000 for equipment or a line of credit. So this relationship was based on your tax return, profit and loss statements, and continually showing the bank manager that you were capable of paying back loans. This was an excellent system, and it really helped small businesses to grow.” But now all that has changed, Pierce says. “Loans now have to be sought at continued on page 32
continued from page 30 higher and higher levels of approval,” says Pierce. “Often a loan will have to go through a committee, which may be outside the local office. Everything has become much more institutionalized, and there are so many new rules and regulations, which has changed how businesses deal with these institutions. It’s all become depersonalized. A lot of bankers have become more public relations people than bank operators, in my opinion. Even business owners who have been good customers and paid off their loans on time for years are finding their lines of credit reduced or altered in some way that handicaps growth. Add to these increased banking regulations with all of the governmental ones mentioned before, which include both federal and state, many business people are more or less in hiding, waiting to see what will happen.” It seems apparent that, if these are bad times for either buying or selling a business, it might be better to wait for better times. Is an economic recovery on the horizon? “That’s a billion dollar question,”
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Pierce replies. “All you can do is look at the indicators and try to project what will happen. But a lot of the indicators are not optimistic, for all of the reasons stated above. The economic problems we are having right now are the direct result of the failure of the politicians in our government to make positive changes that would allow private business in our capitalistic system to progress and move forward. The government is absolutely dictated by special interests. But we have to find a way, as human beings and citizens, to address these problems and find real solutions. Otherwise, the path we will be on will be terminal. We will end up looking like Europe.” Yet, despite all this, Pierce says, ‘I haven’t said that business deals are not going on. They are. But there are more obstacles today than before, and fewer transactions.” Also, adds Pierce, “There are some very good companies that have sustained profitability and growth. What I counsel them is that your business is not going to sell at the price that you want in this day and age. So you’ve got to make the choice of selling for less or roll the dice to see if you can make it through this period of financial instability.” But there are many individual factors also at play. If, say, the owner is close to retirement, has enough assets stored up in retirment and social security as well as various cash and property holdings, it might be good to cut loose at a loss, and enjoy his retirement as planned. “The circumstances are different for buyers,” says Pierce. “It’s hard to give a blanket statement. But if someone wants to buy a business, but hasn’t dealt with all of the obstacles, I say it’s like trying to climb Mount Everest in a T-shirt and shorts. The ideal buyer has a pocketful of money. And there are some deals to be had out there. Perhaps he has a million dollar inheritance he wants to invest in a business. But if I had a million dollars that’s the last thing I would want to do with it.” So, there appears to be nothing that buyers and sellers can really do - except for the rare good deal mutually beneficial to both sides. But Pierce also says, “My dad always said that worse than making a bad decision was not making any at all.” So, for this reason, Pierce counsels have a plan. “For the small business owner, the plan might be downsizing, hiring a manager, and taking more time off, while waiting for better times,” Pierce says. “For the
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
buyer it might be exercising more patience and waiting for the right deal to come along. In any event, analyze your own situation thoroughly and articulate a plan you feel comfortable with and put you in position to take advantage of any opportunities which may come along.” Some added advice for the buyer “Due diligence,” is the principle evoked by Larry Kopsa, CPA, Larry Kopsa, whose York, NE-based Kopsa Otte CPAs is a firm specializing in tax, accounting, and advisory services. “The potential buyer of a business should do a thorough analysis of how the business is doing. I would want to see the real numbers being generated and the comparison of past and current sales. Have the current sales dropped off? I would want to see the names of the employees, how long they’ve worked there. I would want to make sure they are staying on, but also what their payment and/or commission structure is. And what about fringe benefits? Will I be funding a number of things I may not have bargained for? If the business is generating a good income, has skilled employees, and a loyal clientele, then all that has value. But if I have to hire new employees, I may have to pay more than the guy down the street.” Kopsa says to look at, not only the proposed business, but also, the market area and the competition, how well the latter is doing. “You must determine how much cash you need to invest and then determine your return on investment. If you are paying $100,000 for a location, $225,000 for equipment, and $50,000 for supplies, you have to make sure your business will generate a cash flow to justify your expenditure and then to turn a profit.” But Kopsa also advises that even an apparently good situation might not be that clear cut. “For instance, if you buy an existing business, you’re buying both the good and bad, so if the owner has been responsible for building the clientele, then leaves, that clientele might also evaporate.” Kopsa closes with his most emphatic advice. “Make sure your lawyer negotiates a no competition clause within the agreement, so the present owner can’t open a similar business in your area. I don’t care how far away the person says he’s moving. I’ve seen it happen time and time again that the owner’s new plans didn’t work out, so he came back to town to reopen his business down the street. This no competition clause is really important, and should be a part of the purchase price.” WRN
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Workers’ compensation: controlling your costs By Phillip M. Perry Abstract: Employers are grappling with a spike in workers’ compensation premiums after years of virtually level costs. Increasing accident rates and higher medical costs are contributing to the problem. Business owners can help temper the damage by improving safety programs and informing employees about the shared costs of accidents.
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orkers’ compensation insurance, long a burr under the employer’s saddle, is gaining new prominence in the drive to protect profits. Business owners are getting hit with premium increases for the first time after years of virtually level costs for the nation’s oldest social program. “We are entering a new environment of rising workers’ compensation costs,” says Peter Burton, Senior Division Executive for State Relations at the National Council on Compensation Insurance, Boca Raton, FL (ncci.com). “It is estimated that employers are seeing premium increases in the two to five percent range as their renewals come up.” Why the increase? More workers are having accidents and it’s costing more to return them to health. “Most states have experienced ‘loss cost’ increases over the past year,” says Burton. “That’s a change from the virtually flat or decreasing environment of previous years.” The term “loss cost” refers to the average statewide cost of lost wages and medical payments resulting from injured workers. Higher loss costs translate into higher insurance premiums. Premiums rise A rising accident rate may seem surprising, given the many safety programs instituted by employers in recent years. “Workplaces are safer than they were 50 years ago,” admits Daniel C. Free, president and general counsel of Insurance Audit & Inspection, Indianapolis, IN (insuranceaudit.com). And that’s good because—at least until recently—controlling the number of accidents has gone a long way toward capping premiums. Unfortunately, a number of factors have come together to reverse the favorable trend. Among them is a population that’s getting older, heavier, and thus subject to more injury. “People used to retire in their 50s or 60s,” says Free. “Now they often stay in the workforce longer. Studies show that people who are older and overweight are more prone to slips and falls and lifting accidents, and take longer to heal.” Other cost drivers abound: Injured 34
workers today are treated with more sophisticated medical procedures and more costly prescription drugs. And as the economy emerged slowly from the recession employers began hiring new workers who were not as cognizant of security procedures, and whose lower experience levels led to more job injuries. Finally, states are bringing more conditions under the workers’ comp umbrella. “Some procedures, such as knee replacements, might not have been covered a few years ago but are now common,” says Free. “And a growing number of states are covering nonphysical injuries such as mental stress.” It’s all coming together to boost the doctor’s share of the workers’ comp bill. “Historically the indemnity portion of workers’ comp costs [the replacement of a portion of lost wages] was higher than the medical portion,” says Free. “Now the reverse is true: Rising medical costs are driving the increase in workers’ compensation premiums.” Get safe Rising insurance costs are unwelcome to employers already under pressure to produce more with less. Workplace injuries affect far more than insurance premiums. An absent worker, after all, no longer contributes to profitable operations. “Your employees are your most important business asset,” says Free. “You can replace computers if you have to. But your employees are hand picked.” What’s the best way to help cap workers’ comp costs? The safety programs that have played such a vital role in past years remain the most promising resource today. “The best thing you can do is take steps that will improve safety,” says Free. “That means training people in procedures that can reduce injuries, such as how to lift heavy boxes or utilize a computer keyboard safely. It may also mean purchasing safer equipment.” A big component is getting your workforce engaged. “Get people thinking about safety,” says Free. “It has to come from the top down. Make the employees feels you care about them. Every time there is an accident, enlist the help of
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
your employees in figuring out what caused it and see if it can be fixed.” Pay special attention to new workers who may not have absorbed all of the safety instructions they were given, or who have not honed the skills requisite to injury-free activity. Establish safety groups that bring employees and managers together so they will become more cognizant of good practices. And explain how a safe work record contributes to an employer’s lower workers’ compensation premium. Incentive programs can also help. Establish financial rewards for employees any time you go through a set period of time without injuries. A safe workplace is good for employees because it contributes to job retention. Need help? “Most insurance carriers have trained safety and loss prevention professionals who will visit your workplace and make suggestions,” says Free. “They can help a lot.” Back to work It’s important to get injured employees back to work as soon as you can. “Experience shows that for every dollar you spend on benefits for an injured worker you will be charged 3.5 dollars in premiums over the years,” says Norman A. Peterson, President of Norman Peterson & Associates, an Ashland, Oregon-based consulting firm that specializes in back to work issues (www.returntowork.com). Injuries lead to increased premiums because medical expenses affect your experience modification rating, or “x-mod” for short. If you experience higher than average claims your premiums will increase; the converse is also true. Generally speaking, smaller employers who pay less than $5,000 in annual premiums for three years running are exempted from x-mod calculations. But the threshold and rules vary by state. And even exempted employers will benefit from low accident rates because more employees will be productive participants in the workplace rather than spending time at home recovering from accidents. While the accident victim is off work, continued on page 36
continued from page 34 be sure to call and ask about the recovery process. “Keep very close contact with the injured employee,” suggests Burton. “Check in often. Show you are concerned and see what you can do to keep the person’s spirits up. Make sure the right medical care is being offered. The worst thing that can happen is a disconnect between the employer and an injured employee that does not lend itself to a prompt rehabilitation and return to work.” Make the employees feel that someone is worried and they are needed. Your business will benefit even if a returned employee can only perform light duty. “Employees who come back to work early go to their doctors less and take fewer prescription drugs,” says Peterson. “Their minds become fully engaged at their work when they are not sitting at home thinking about their injuries.” Develop and implement a light duty program designed to blend injured workers back into the workforce as early as possible. Consider appointing an injured worker as a safety coordinator. “Have him write a report on how the injury occurred and how it can be avoided in the future for all workers,” suggests Peterson. “Then have him bird dog the solution.” This will heighten the profile of security, which is
all to the good. The more employees think about safety the fewer accidents you will incur. Says Peterson: “Start to think of an injured worker as a resource.” Combat fraud Fraud can be expensive in terms of rising workers’ compensation premiums, the court time required for appeals and the time and expense required for hiring replacement employees. “The great majority of claims are legitimate,” says Burton. “Most are compensable and correctly filed. But there are occasional outliers and they can be costly to the employer. In a time when everyone is competing in a global economy the costs of fraudulent claims can make an employer less competitive.” How can you prevent such claims? “One of the best things you can do is use good interviewing techniques when hiring new employees,” says Burton. Interviews should assess the work background and history of the applicant and the person’s attitude toward work. “Also, educate managers to be mindful for things that might be suspicious,” adds Burton. “And educate your employees and managers on these topics. Make sure they understand that any time you add more costs to a business it makes the business less competitive and may result
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in an employer eliminating positions due to increased expenses.” Should you fight a fraudulent claim in court? “If the employer has substantial evidence either through investigation or surveillance, certainly it would be beneficial to challenge a claim,” says Burton. “Hopefully the workers’ compensation commission will make the right determination. Bear in mind that most claims are nonetheless legitimate.” What’s ahead? Workers’ compensation fills a vital need for employers who are protected from lawsuits by injured workers. At the same time, the system makes sure employees receive compensation for a portion of lost wages and medical costs resulting from workplace injuries. The workers’ compensation system is not subject to the same cost controls as the health insurance industry. Nor do injured workers pay deductibles. For these reasons and many more, premiums are likely to go up further in the years ahead. “No one knows what will happen once health care reform takes hold,” says Free. “One might think that the legislation will cause claim costs to go down because everyone will be insured. But there is a lot of uncertainty out there. continued on page 74
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Finished steel imports rise by 31% in January
Import market share increases to 23% Based on preliminary Census Bureau data, the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) reported that the U.S. imported a total of 2,546,000 net tons (NT) of steel in January, including 2,060,000 NT of finished steel (up 23% and 31%, respectively, from December final data). Annualized total and finished steel imports in 2012 would be 30.6 and 24.7 million NT, up 7% and 13%, respectively, vs. 2011. Finished steel import market share in January was an estimated 23%, up 1 percentage point from full-year 2011 and up 4 percentage points from December. Key finished steel products with significant import increases in January 2012 compared to December are line pipe (up 60%), cold rolled sheets (up 59%), reinforcing bars (up 58%), oil country goods (up 46%), cut length plates (up 42%) and standard pipe (up 42%). In January vs. the month before, the largest volumes of finished steel imports from offshore were from South Korea (314,000, up 55%), Turkey (142,000 NT, up 71%), Japan (128,000 up 0.2%), Germany (107,000 NT, up 25%) and China (100,000, up 15%). Below are charts on estimated steel import market share in recent months and on finished steel imports from offshore by country.
AISI commends the House and Senate’s bipartisan votes to pass legislation ensuring the U.S. Anti-Subsidy Law applies to China and other nonmarket economies
American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) President and CEO Thomas J. Gibson issued the following statement regarding the 370 - 39 vote in the U.S. House of Representatives and the unanimous Senate vote in favor of legislation overturning a December 2011 ruling of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit that the U.S. Commerce Department could not apply countervailing duties against subsidized products, including steel, from China and other non-market economies: “AISI celebrates the overwhelming bipartisan votes in the House and Senate in favor of legislation to overturn an erroneous federal appeals court 38
decision denying U.S. industry the ability to seek relief from subsidized imports from non-market economies like China. That ruling, if it had gone forward, would have put millions of valuable American jobs across many industries at risk. Passage of this legislation is a tremendous victory for American manufacturers and American jobs, as it is critical to ensure a level playing field for U.S. manufacturers and their workers. America’s steel industry is a backbone industry to all U.S. manufacturers, and as such we are extremely grateful to Congress for this significant action.”
Report on 2010 U.S. indirect steel trade now available
Indirect steel trade deficit grew 32% to nearly 12 million tons, AISI reports; China accounted for 48% of total indirect steel trade deficit A new analysis of U.S. indirect steel trade reveals that U.S. indirect steel imports and the total U.S. indirect steel trade deficit both registered substantial growth in the recovery year of
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
2010. The new report available from the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) shows that indirect steel imports in 2010 took a higher share of total U.S. apparent steel consumption than was the case prior to the 2008-09 global recession. The report through data year 2010 includes a comparison to the years 2006 through 2009. “Indirect steel trade” constitutes imports and exports of steel-containing goods, expressed in tons of steel. This report quantifies both the volume and value of annual U.S. trade in steelcontaining goods in the years 20062010 with respect to major end-use markets, world regions and key countries. The full 62-page report is now available in hard copy for $100. The new report shows that U.S. indirect steel imports approached 34 million net tons (NT) in 2010, up 24% vs. 2009. While U.S. indirect steel exports also increased over this time period (up 19%), the total U.S. indirect steel trade deficit with the rest of the world — much of it in automotive products continued on page 40
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continued from page 38 — rose 32% in 2010 to 11.9 million NT. In commenting on the new report, Thomas J. Gibson, president and CEO of AISI, stated that, “We are particularly concerned that, in 2010, while the United States was experiencing a slow and fragile recovery from the recession, China’s share of the total U.S. indirect steel trade deficit remained close to 50%, and U.S. manufacturers were forced to compete against an additional 1.2 million tons of steel incorporated in finished goods from China. These imports were aided by China’s central government-managed model of economic development, which includes massive subsidies to steel and steelintensive manufacturing industries.” In this regard, Gibson expressed concern that, “With the slowdown in global economic growth and China’s growing excess capacity in both steel and steel-intensive goods, there could be renewed surges of unfairly traded Chinese steel to the U.S. and NAFTA markets — either imported directly or indirectly. The current economic problems in Europe only amplify the threat that the U.S. and North America could become even bigger targets for Chinese steel and steel-intensive goods going forward.” “To combat this threat,” Gibson said, “AISI and many other U.S. industries are supporting the full application of both countervailing duty and antidumping law to non-market economies such as China, a trade remedy provision to address currency manipulation by China and other countries, new rules to address trade-distorting behavior of state-owned and influenced enterprises, and prompt passage of legislation to ensure the transparent, timely enforcement of U.S. customs laws and rules.” AISI has been publishing data on U.S. indirect steel trade since 1984. These reports provide data on the total amount of indirect steel trade each year in the U.S. economy, and show the main sources of foreign competition faced by major steel-using industries in the U.S. This latest report includes detailed data for the last five years (2006-2010). To obtain the full report, please contact Robert MacDonald at 202.452.7203, or visit www.steel.org.
January steel shipments up 5.1 percent from December
Up 12.9 percent year to date The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) reported that for the month of January 2012, U.S. steel mills 40
shipped 8,497,932 net tons, a 5.1 percent increase from the 8,085,761 net tons shipped in the previous month, December 2011, and a 12.9 percent increase from the 7,528,655 net tons shipped in January 2011. 2012 shipments for January would annualize at 102 million tons. A month-to-month comparison of shipments shows the following changes: cold rolled sheet, up 24 percent, hot dipped galvanized sheets and strip, up 19 percent and hot rolled sheet, down 9 percent.
American Iron and Steel Institute applauds U.S. filing of WTO complaint against China for illegal export restrictions
The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) applauds the decision of the United States, along with the European Union and Japan, to hold China accountable for its illegal restrictions on exports of tungsten and molybdenum, as well as rare earth elements. “Tungsten and molybdenum are important raw materials in making steel and other products, and China’s export restrictions have distorted the world market for those materials, to the detriment of American manufacturers and American workers,” AISI President and CEO Thomas J. Gibson, said. “The rare earth elements are critical to the industrial base of the United States, and AISI is pleased to see the U.S. government working with other countries to tackle China’s attempts to use export restrictions on raw materials to force foreign companies to shift industrial production and technology to China.”
American steel producers, workers applaud World Trade Organization decision on Chinese export policies
The American Iron and Steel Institute, the Steel Manufacturers Association, the Specialty Steel Industry of North America, the Committee on Pipe and Tube Imports, and the United Steelworkers have expressed their support for a favorable decision by the Appellate Body of the World Trade Organization (“WTO”) regarding China’s export policies. The decision held that China’s restraints on exports of various raw materials violated its WTO obligations. The United States, the European Union, and Mexico had challenged China’s application of export quotas, export taxes, and other export restraints on bauxite, coke, fluorspar,
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
magnesium, manganese, silicon carbide, silicon metal, yellow phosphorus and zinc, materials that are used to make steel and other manufactured goods. The Appellate Body decision upheld the key findings in an earlier decision by a WTO Dispute Settlement Panel. The Appellate Body recognized that China’s restraints on exports fundamentally contravene the obligations China assumed when it joined the WTO. This should send a strong message to all WTO members that restraints on exports are not permitted. The American Iron and Steel Institute, the Steel Manufacturers Association, the Specialty Steel Industry of North America, and the Committee on Pipe and Tube Imports represent the producers of the vast majority of steel made in North America. The United Steel Workers represents workers in the steel industry in the United States and Canada, as well as in a range of other industries.
Finished steel imports up 29 percent through two months;
While February permit tons drop slightly, import market share rises to 23 percent Based on the Commerce Department’s most recent Steel Import Monitoring and Analysis (SIMA) data, the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) reported that through 2 months of 2012, finished steel imports were 4.1 million net tons (NT), up 29% vs. the 3.1 million NT in the same period last year. Total steel import permit applications for the month of February were 2,549,000 (NT)., down 10% from the 2,826,000 permit tons recorded in January, but were up 0.1% from the January preliminary imports total of 2,546,000 NT. Import permit tonnage for finished steel in February was 1,991,000 NT, down 3% from the preliminary imports total of 2,060,000 NT in January. February 2012 total and finished steel import permit tons would annualize at 30,574,000 NT and 24,306,000 NT, up 7% and 11%, respectively, vs. the 28,515,000 NT and 21,835,000 NT imported in 2011. The estimated finished steel import market share in February was 23%. In February, the largest finished steel import permit applications for offshore countries were for Korea (276,000 NT, down 12% from January), Japan (157,000 NT, up 23%), Turkey (145,000 NT, up 2%), China (80,000 NT, down 20%) and Germany continued on page 44
continued from page 40 (67,000 NT, down 38%). Year-to-date (YTD), several key products are experiencing elevated import levels vs. their 2011 annual average. Significant 2012 YTD increases include reinforcing bar (up 90% vs. 2011 monthly average), bar size light shapes (up 84%), sheets and strip all other metallic coated (up 35%) and hot dipped galvanized sheets and strip (up 18%). Finished steel import permits for products that registered large increases in February vs. the January preliminary include wire rods (up 92%), sheets and strip galvanized hot dipped (up 46%), plates in coils (up 43%) and hot rolled sheets (up 9%). In commenting on the February 2012 SIMA data, Thomas J. Gibson, AISI president and CEO, stated that, “The most striking thing about the 2012 import data through two months is that finished steel imports are running a full million tons ahead of where they were through the first two months of last year. There are some significant volume increases in imports of a number of key long and flat products – most noticeably, in rebar, bar size light shapes and hot dipped galvanized sheets and strip. Such sud-
den and dramatic increases in imports will have adverse effects on U.S. producers.”
American Steel Industry lauds Senate passage of transportation bill
Urges the House to pass transportation bill before March 31 deadline American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) President and CEO Thomas J. Gibson applauded the U.S. Senate for passing a two-year transportation bill before the current surface transportation extension expires at the end of March. “Investing in our nation’s transportation infrastructure is critical to America’s international competitiveness and the health of our economy,” Gibson stated. “Without regular investments and upgrades, our roads, bridges and highways become unsafe and inefficient. We strongly commend the Senate for working together in a bipartisan way to pass S. 1813. This bill will not only help fix our crumbling transportation infrastructure, but will help drive our economic recovery and put Americans back to work. According to the Department
of Transportation, every one billion dollars federally invested in highway capital supports nearly 35,000 jobs. Maintaining and improving America’s transportation system should be a top national priority. We urge the House of Representatives to act on surface transportation legislation when it returns next week. The construction season is already upon us. We cannot afford to let the current extension expire without having a longer-term plan in place.”
Secretary Geithner and USTR Kirk to press China currency concerns at World Trade Orgnization Seminar
In a letter focused on China currency concerns sent to Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner and United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ron Kirk, the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) urged the United States to more aggressively pressure China for currency reform during the March 27-28 World Trade Organization (WTO) seminar in Geneva that will focus on the role of exchange rate practices in international trade. The seminar, hosted by the WTO continued on page 46
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continued from page 44 Working Group on Trade, Debt and Finance, will provide “another major opportunity for the U.S. and other concerned governments to press China to end its large and sustained interventions in foreign exchange markets, interventions that have made the Chinese currency the most severely undervalued major currency in the world,” the letter stated. AISI urges “the U.S. and other concerned governments to take full advantage of the opportunity created by the WTO seminar to increase the pressure on China to end its currency undervaluation policies.” Open a browser to www.steel.org/~/ media/Files/AISI/Public%20Policy/ Letters/Currency%20letter_03122012. ashx to read the full letter.
America’s steel industry is leading manufacturing out of the recession
New report finds the American steel industry supported more than one million jobs in the U.S. economy in 2011; each job in U.S. steel industry supports seven jobs in the U.S. economy A just-released report by Timothy
J. Considine, professor of energy economics, University of Wyoming, reveals that the American steel industry is playing a significant role in leading manufacturing’s post-recession resurgence primarily because it is highly interrelated with many other sectors of the economy. In his analysis titled, “Economic Impacts of the American Steel Industry,” Dr. Considine notes that, “Every one job in the U.S. steel industry supports seven jobs in the U.S. economy, reflecting its ripple effect on employment.” For 2011, the report states, the American steel industry directly employed 150,700 and given the multiplier effect, supported more than 1,022,009 jobs. In his report, Dr. Considine points out that the significant economic impact of the industry is based on the fact that steel is the most prevalent material in the economy, and the steel industry purchases a wide variety of inputs from other industries that create a favorable ripple effect. “This is one reason why so many countries around the world welcome investments that establish steel mills, because they stimulate industrial supply chains,” he states.
These indirect impacts support jobs in industries supplying the steel industry with inputs of energy, materials and services, examples of which are identified in the report. A third and final set of economic impacts arise from the stimulus that additional labor and capital income provides for households to spend on goods and services, the report explains. “These so-called induced impacts together with the direct and indirect impacts constitute the total economic impact of the industry,” the report states. “Thus, for every dollar increase in sales for iron and steel mills and ferroalloy industries, total output in the U.S. economy increases by $2.66.” Based on the estimated 2011 direct steel sector employment of 150,700, the Considine report states that the steel sector supported 1,022,099 jobs in the U.S. economy, contributed over $101 billion in value added and $246 billion in gross output. Based on tax multipliers utilized in the analysis, during 2011 the steel sector generated nearly $23 billion in local, state and federal taxes. Dr. Considine’s analysis was commissioned by the American Iron and continued on page 48
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continued from page 46 Steel Institute (AISI) to provide an updated look at the American steel industry’s overall impact on the U.S. economy. In his study, Dr. Considine employed the IMPLAN system developed by MIG, Inc., one of the most widely used and highly regarded systems for economic impact analysis. The report describes the industry’s purchases of a highly diverse range of products and services, thus supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs along the supply chain. For example, in 2010 the steel industry purchased more than $20 billion of materials produced in other industries, $8 billion of machinery, $4.4 billion from wholesale and retail trade sectors and more than $4 billion of transportation services. It also generated $12.4 billion in labor income. Point your browser to http://goo.gl/ PVz1V to read the full report. Also read the Key Findings at http://goo.gl/ svAVu.
AISI releases industry profile for 2012
Profile provides overview of the American Steel Industry The American Iron and Steel Insti-
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tute (AISI) released its Industry Profile for 2012 on Capitol Hill during a Congressional Steel Caucus Hearing. The Profile provides an overview of the American steel industry highlighting its commitment to sustainability, its global leadership in labor productivity, and demonstrating its ubiquitous presence throughout America in the automotive, construction and container markets, and as a strategic material in military applications. In addition, the Profile provides a list of AISI’s Producer Members including their locations and products produced. “We hope this 2012 industry profile will help everyone, from policymakers to the general public, better understand the importance of the American steel industry to our economy and our quality of life,” said Thomas J. Gibson, president and CEO, AISI. “Steel is the most prevalent material in the U.S. economy supporting more than one million U.S. jobs. It is also the most recycled material, more than all other materials combined. This Profile showcases the significance of steel in maintaining our global competiveness, transportation infrastructure, sustainability, energy and national security.”
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
Go to http://goo.gl/kuiIm to view the online version of the Industry Profile for 2012.
AISI urges U.S. Treasury December steel shipments up 9.2 percent from November
Up 10.1 percent year to date The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) reported that for the month of December 2011, U.S. steel mills shipped 8,085,761 net tons, a 9.2 percent increase from the 7,404,828 net tons shipped in the previous month, November 2011, and a 13.7 percent increase from the 7,111,031 net tons shipped in December 2010. Shipments for 2011 are 91,865,449 a 10.1 percent increase vs. 2010 full year shipments of 83,443,836. A month-to-month comparison of shipments shows the following changes: hot rolled sheet, up 15 percent, hot dipped galvanized sheets and strip, up 2 percent and cold rolled sheet, up 2 percent.
Chant Engineering partners with Talurit AB, in North America
Two great names have partnered together to provide products and service to the Rigging Industry. Chant Engineering Co., Inc. has partnered with Talurit AB of Sweden. In addition to its well known wire rope testing machines, Chant is now the authorized distributor for Talurit Swaging Presses, Dies and Wire Rope Cutting Machines, throughout North America. Chant will stock equipment, spare parts and provide service for all Talurit equipment from their New Britain, PA facility. Phil Chant, vice president of Chant Engineering, said “This is an exciting business venture that we have been working on for many years. The potential is tremendous. We now are able to offer our customers not only our products and services but package deals on swagers, cutting machines and test beds. This partnership will allow us to increase the size of our manufacturing facility and create quality American jobs.” Thommy Andersson, managing director of Talurit AB, said “This cooperation will allow us to provide not only our products and spare parts from stock at Chant, but also competent technical service and training. Talurit continues to be a pioneering force in the industry developing effective methods and equipment for mechani-
cal splicing of wire ropes, with high quality control and total customer satisfaction. Together with Chant we will create a new Talurit Service Centre in North America. We are looking forward to this venture.”
Samson awarded 12th patent for MLX rope
Samson has received its latest patent for developing a technology that blends high modulus polypropylene (HMPE) with high modulus polyethylene (HMPP) together in fiber rope products. MLX is the first rope on the market that provides higher performance characteristics than ropes made with traditional fibers such as nylon and polyester, yet it remains less costly than ropes made of 100% HMPE. For more information, contact Charlotte Wells at cwells@samsonrope.com.
Everett Industries, Inc. celebrates 50th anniversary
Everett Industries, Inc., of 3601 Larchmont Avenue, celebrates 50 years of manufacturing abrasive cutoff saws. The company was founded in
1962 by Chuck Everett and today employs 15 people. Everett Industries is operated by Chuck Everett’s son, Bill Everett, president, and Roy Williams, vice president. Everett Industries produces abrasive cutoff machines sold worldwide to any industry that needs to cut metal. Its 37,000 square-foot manufacturing facility houses a modern machine shop.
NEMA economic forecasters take top Wall Street Journal honors for accuracy
NEMA’s economic forecasting team of Don Leavens, vice president and chief economist, and Tim Gill, director, Economics, topped the The Wall Street Journal’s (WSJ) economic forecasting survey for 2011. Each year the WSJ compiles forecasts of real GDP, inflation, interest rates, employment, and other indicators from economists representing trade associations, financial and consulting firms, and academia. NEMA’s forecasts for 2011 were the most accurate in aggregate of the 52 surveyed. “In a year in which faulty govern-
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NCCCO approves use of calculators on CCO exams
Study reveals no impact on load chart interpretation Basic electronic calculators will be permitted for use on certain CCO written exams, the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) has announced. Previously, calculators have been prohibited on all CCO national tests. The measure takes effect July 2, 2012. The change in policy is based in continued on next page
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ment data threw just about everyone for a loop, it is nice to come out on top. A strong fourth quarter 2010 economic growth rate estimate by the government that was later revised sharply downward encouraged many economists to soften the level of their pessimism in early 2011,” said Mr. Leavens. “Like other forecasters, we upped our growth forecast, but only modestly. Our restrained enthusiasm about growth coupled with a closer read on inflation and interest rates helped to sustain our forecast at the top,” added Mr. Gill.
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continued from previous page part, NCCCO says, on the results of a study commissioned by International Assessment Institute (IAI), the company that provides test development and administration services to NCCCO. The study, The Effects of Calculator Use During NCCCO Testing, concluded that, while the use of calculators would not be appropriate for use on basic math questions such as those contained in CCO Core exams, their use would be supportable on load chart calculations used on CCO Specialty exams. The study notes that there are two types of math items used in NCCCO exams: calculation problems that require only the use of basic math skills such as adding, subtracting, dividing, and multiplying (items of this type were introduced on CCO Core exams in 2011); and those found on CCO Specialty examinations in connection with load chart interpretation that involve higher order thinking and information retrieval skills. In support of its recommendation that calculators be used on CCO Specialty exams but not the Core exams, the study notes that “a calculator would not help a candidate deduce
the correct answer on load chart questions since there are multiple problem-solving steps required for a correct answer.” NCCCO will start providing calculators for use at all NCCCO mobile crane written test administrations beginning with exams administered July 2, 2012. “The five-month phase-in period will provide ample opportunity for candidates and training providers alike to adjust to the new policy,” explained NCCCO Program Manager of Test Development, Joel Oliva. Calculators would be available for traditional paper-and-pencil tests as well as at computer test centers, he explained. Oliva noted that the new policy would ensure that certified operators demonstrate their basic mathematical ability unaided, while performing load chart calculations much as many do in the field with the assistance of a simple four-function calculator. “We expect the move to be well-received by the industry,” Oliva added. NCCCO’s decision was also in line with a recent shift in the position taken by standards and regulatory bodies on calculator use, said NCCCO Executive Director, Graham Brent. “NCCCO’s prohibition on the use of
calculators on its nationally accredited certification exams has been right in line with prevailing American National Standards,” said Brent. In particular, he cited the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) B30.5 committee which historically has interpreted its provision for crane operators to be able to “exhibit arithmetic and load chart/capacity usage” as being required without the assistance of calculators. “Not only has ASME recently modified its position,” Brent said, “but OSHA’s new rule on the use of cranes (29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC) permits the calculation and use of load/capacity information manually or with a calculator. These developments had prompted NCCCO to revisit the issue, which had led to the commissioning of the study by IAI, he added. IAI President, Dr. Anthony Mitchell, stated that the study represented a significant contribution to the industry debate on this subject. “We now have, for the first time, concrete data on which to base a rational and informed decision on a matter that many people in the industry have strong opinions about,” Dr. Mitchell said. “NCCCO has made the correct change in policy
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The Annual Conference is expected to bring together more than 600 industry professionals to network, learn and engage. Among the featured highlights are the Products Fair with 70 exhibitors; the Rigging and Hauling Jobs of the Year Competitions; the Annual Awards and Recognition Dinner; the SC&R Foundation’s Boogie, Boots ‘n Bling Gala; golf, tennis and fun run events; the President’s Reception; the Acoustic Alchemy Guitar Reception and special receptions for international members, first-time attendees and spouses. An impressive roster of speakers will educate and entertain attendees during special sessions throughout the Conference, including: Opening session speaker Curt Coffman will elaborate on why successful managers “first break all the rules.” SC&RA 2012 Annual He will explain how the best manConference set for April agers select an employee for talent 17-21 in Austin, Texas rather than for skills or experience; The 2012 Annual Conference of the http://designm.ag/resources/adobe-illustrator-brushes/ set expectations; motivate employees Specialized Carriers & Rigging Assoand, finally, find the right fit for each ciation (SC&RA), April 17-21, at the person rather than for the next rung Hyatt Regency Lost Pines, Austin, on the ladder. Texas, features a program that inA panel of insurance industry excludes educational sessions, networkperts will provide an explanation about ing events and committee meetings. without being swayed by the emotion that has often characterized discussion on this issue in the past.” Using data compiled from the performance of several thousand candidates on CCO Core and Specialty exams, the study seeks to identify correlations between candidate performance on the two types of math questions and overall exam performance. In addition, it provides a comprehensive overview of the current status of calculator use within various professional certification and licensing disciplines, a discussion of the effects of calculator use on test validity and reliability, and a thorough review of the literature on the subject. The Effects of Calculator Use During NCCCO Testing is available for free download from NCCCO.
how to assess the risks associated with any given contract and ultimately determine whether to accept the terms. The second part of the session will provide a “contract checklist” of items for both transportation and crane and rigging companies, including various additional insured endorsements and indemnity agreements. Speakers include Jeff Haynes, national practice leader, USI Insurance Services, LLC; Robert Moore, chief legal officer, NBIS; Bill Smith, vice president, Claims and Risk Management, NBIS; and Dave Wittwer, vice president, The Buckner Company, Inc. In his presentation,“The Lighter Side of Spaceflight,” Mike Mullane will explain how he realized a lifetime dream of becoming an astronaut through the practice of “mapping the edge of his performance envelope.” His session will take audience members on a space journey and leave them with a renewed sense of their potential – and the potential of their team. Dr. Martin Regalia, vice president & chief economist of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, returns to the Annual Conference after a two-year hiatus to report on the current economic continued on next page
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continued from previous page climate and his projections for 2012 and beyond. He will address stimulus spending, global construction and the general posture of the credit. “Enjoy the Ride,” is the advice offered by Steve Gilliland in his presentation, which will reveal through humor and reality tested techniques how to face conflicting demands in an unforgiving business environment that keeps getting tougher. Until March 9, early-bird registration fees are available at $619 for members, $329 for their spouses and $259 for their children (12-18); nonmember early-bird registration fees are available for $879 per registrant, $539 for their spouses, and $369 for their children (12 to 18). After that date, all registration fees increase by $70 per registration. Fees include receptions, full breakfasts, refreshment breaks and the closing night awards and recognition dinner. Visit www.scranet.org/2012-annualconference now to review the program, learn more about the hotel, and register as an attendee or exhibitor. Information is also available by calling SC&RA at (703) 698-0291. The Specialized Carriers and Rigging Association (SC&RA) is an international trade association of more than 1,300 members from 47 nations. Members are involved in specialized transportation, machinery moving and erecting, industrial maintenance, millwrighting and crane and rigging operations, manufacturing and rental. SC&RA helps members run
more efficient and safer businesses by monitoring and affecting pending legislation and regulatory policies at the state and national levels; researching and reporting on safety concerns and best business practices; and providing four yearly forums where these and other relevant member issues can be advanced.
Samson awarded Circle of Excellence by National Business Research Institute
Samson, the worldwide leader in performance rope, has received the Circle of Excellence Award by the National Business Research Institute (NBRI). This prestigious award is given to companies earning the distinction of Customer Satisfaction Excellence from NBRI. Samson employed NBRI to conduct a survey to measure customer satisfaction. NBRI has over 30 years of experience in conducting scientific research for businesses and has identified issues and survey topics that are universal to all organizations. They provide survey results which reveal trends unique to Samson customers, and also benchmark survey results against other companies within an industry classification. To qualify for the Circle of Excellence award, Samson had to score at or above the 75th percentile when measured against NBRI’s Benchmarking Database. Tony Bon, Samson president, reports “We are pleased to be rated so
highly among industry peers, however, we are most interested in how we are measuring up to the expectations of our customers. To that end, from the survey data we have identified areas in which we feel we can improve your overall experience with Samson. Our goal remains continuous improvement, and we are always striving for 100% customer satisfaction.”
AISI committed to working with USTR to correct errant decisions on zeroing
American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) President and CEO Thomas J. Gibson issued the following statement on recent developments regarding longstanding zeroing disputes: “The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) condemns the several rulings by the World Trade Organization (WTO) against zeroing, a method of calculating antidumping duties that has long been applied in the United States and other countries. The practice of zeroing is nowhere prohibited in the WTO agreements, and the WTO rulings on this subject are a classic example of overreach by the WTO Appellate Body. Elimination of zeroing will make it easier for foreign producers to dump their products in the U.S. market and injure U.S. workers and businesses. This is a case where the WTO Appellate Body got it wrong. United States Trade Representative Ron Kirk has emphasized that the Administration will continue to work to obtain a clarification that the WTO rules permit zeroing, which is critical to making our trade laws work. We strongly support this position by the Administration, and will continue to work with USTR and the Commerce Department to correct these errant decisions by the WTO.”
AISI lauds house passage of energy legislation; urges action on transportation bill
The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) lauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the energy portion of H.R. 7, American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Act of 2012. The energy provisions of H.R. 7, which will expand access to our nation’s oil and gas resources and devote expected revenues to pay for transportation infrastructure, passed by a 237-187 52
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
vote. The legislation also includes a provision to expedite the approval of the Keystone XL pipeline, which will create valuable American jobs and increase the nation’s energy supply. “Harnessing our domestic energy resources will create an abundant and affordable supply of energy while supporting the creation of thousands of jobs. At the same time, rebuilding our nation’s transportation infrastructure is vital to our economic and national security, “AISI President and CEO Thomas J. Gibson said. “Coupled together with surface transportation legislation, this energy bill will expand our domestic energy supply and make possible the substantial investment that is critical to upgrading our dilapidated infrastructure system. It is imperative that Congress pass H.R. 7 before the March 31 deadline when the current transportation authorization expires.”
AWRF 2012-13 calendar of upcoming events
2012 April 22 - 25 Spring General Meeting, Grand Hyatt Buckhead, Atlanta, GA. Sep 30 - Oct 3 Fall General Meeting, Marriott Wardman Park, Washington DC. 2013 April 28 - May 1 Spring General Meeting & P.I.E., Omni Fort Worth, Fort Worth, TX. October 20 - 23 Fall General Meeting, Century Plaza Hyatt Regency, Los Angeles, CA.
Web Sling & Tie Down Association 2012 calendar of upcoming events
Annual Meeting - June 5-7, 2012 – Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada Fall Meeting - October 16-18, 2012 Minneapolis, MN.
Bishop Lifting Products, Inc. adds a new location in Oklahoma City
Bishop Lifting Products, Inc. (BLP), a fabricator and distributor of slings and rigging supplies, has announced the opening of a new regional office in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The Oklahoma City office will be the one-stop source for servicing the oilfield rigging needs in the Mid-Continent region. “Our Oklahoma City office will provide rigging solutions
and local MaxiRider™ support to businesses in the region,” says Jeff Bishop, president of Bishop Lifting Products. The new office enables BLP to host key customers and prospects, as well as the ability to offer essential product and solution services, such as onsite product testing and training. Bishop Lifting Products in Oklahoma City will be fully stocked with Crosby products as well as a fabricator of slings, such as wire rope slings, web slings, roundslings, chain slings, and Slingmax® high performance slings. The location is also equipped with a 350,000 lb. proof testing machine, laser tag etching machine for making sling tags, a pouring tower for fabricating mast raising lines, and a 20,000 lb. wire rope spooling machine.
Bill Ray, regional vice president based in the Oklahoma City branch, says “we feel like our Oklahoma City facility is state of the art! It enables us to provide unparalleled service, fabrication and testing of rigging equipment for the Mid-Continent region. We are very excited about being in Oklahoma City.” This is the third new branch for Bishop Lifting Products in the past year. About Bishop Lifting Products, Inc. Founded in 1984, Bishop Lifting Products, Inc. (BLP) is a leading fabricator and distributor of products, services, and lifting solutions for crane, rigging, marine, and oilfield applicacontinued on next page
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continued from previous page tions. Our 200+ dedicated employees throughout Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Wyoming and Oklahoma supply wire rope, slings, rigging hardware, lifting devices, hoists and winches to customers with lifting, oilfield, towing, and hauling applications.
Southern Wire modernizes the Olive Branch distribution center
Southern Wire, a division of Houston Wire and Cable Co, is proud to announce the recent reengineering of their Olive Branch warehouse facility has been completed. The goal was to create a well-lit, safe, high efficiency space while maintaining excellent flow of shipping and receiving processes. Re-racking, high efficiency lighting, bar coding improvements, space utilization improvements, and additional reeling capacity are all now on line. Each of these projects was completed
Southern Wire’s commitment to Right Product | Right Place | Right Time. About the Company For 40 years, Southern Wire, a division of Houston Wire and Cable Company, has earned a reputation for understanding the unique buying requirements of their customers and delivering exceptional customer service and support. With quality and safety as our guide, it is the mission of Southern Wire to deliver superior foreign and domestic wire rope, chain, and other related rigging products and fabricated assemblies with exceptional service. By purchasing in large volumes from qualified vendors, stocking at strategically located nationwide distribution centers, and utilizing proprietary state of the art technologies, we are able to provide same day shipping of stock items at outstanding value. The Southern Wire family strives to build strong relationships with our customers, employees, vendors, and community by exceeding expectations and providing long term competitive advantages. Houston Wire & Cable Company is one of the largest providers of wire and cable in the U.S. end user market. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, HWCC has sales and distribution facilities strategically located throughout the nation.
Sessions at ASME Turbo Expo 2012 to examine alternative fuels in gas turbines
with zero service interruptions to Southern Wire’s customers. The Southern Wire production and distribution centers now includes: Olive Branch, Mississippi, Kansas City, Missouri, Houston, Texas, Los Angeles, California, Tampa, Florida, Chicago, Illinois, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and coming soon Seattle Washington. These facilities solidify
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Speakers at the upcoming ASME Turbo Expo 2012 will explore ways in which engineers are coming together to find solutions to some of the most critical issues facing our planet, including efforts to reduce the emissions of carbon dioxide and other pollutants in gas turbines. Presentations at the conference to open June 11 in Copenhagen, Denmark, will explore the use of alternative fuels – chiefly biofuels – in gas turbines ranging from stationary pow-
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
er systems to aviation engines. Other presentations at ASME Turbo Expo will cover wind power, as engineers and research scientists step to the forefront in the global push to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In one paper at the conference, a group of researchers at National Technical University of Athens, Athens, Greece, will assess the performance of algae and other biomass fuels in a helicopter. Using advanced computer models, the researchers have been able to simulate the effect of the biomass on fuel flow, rotor speed, vertical climb and descent, landing, and other engine parameters. “Worldwide air traffic is predicted to grow at a rate of 4-5 percent per year, and carbon dioxide emissions from aviation will be nearly six times the current level by 2050,” say the researchers in explaining the significance of their studies. On the ground, engineers are experimenting with the use of vegetable oils, wood, methanol, and other alternative fuels in micro-turbines and also large-scale stationary power systems. A research team at the Institute of Combustion Technology in Stuttgart, Germany is scheduled to report at Turbo Expo on the performance of biomass fuel in a micro-turbine, presenting analysis on ignition, flame speeds, burning velocities, and other variables. In addition, Danish researchers will present “Efficient Operation of a Gas Turbine on Methanol Using Chemical Recuperation,” examining a microturbine retrofitted with a methanol decomposer. “Environmental and political concerns are pushing for a fuel shift in the power industry,” notes the threeperson research team in the Department of Energy Sciences of Lund University, Lund, Sweden. The researchers believe methanol, which is easily stored and requires only moderate modifications to the gas turbine, represents a good candidate as an alternative fuel. ASME Turbo Expo – Turbine Technical Conference and Exposition will combine a technical program, equipment exhibit, keynote session, facility tours, continuing education workshops, and other activities. In addition to alternative fuels, ASME Turbo Expo 2012 will cover engine design, materials, fans and blowers, cogeneration, and combustion diagnostics, among other topics. Presentations will focus on the latest advances in research,
experimentation, and system applications. The conference will be held June 11-15, at the Bella Center. For more information on ASME Turbo Expo 2012, visit the Web site at www.turboexpo.org or contact the ASME International Gas Turbine Institute (IGTI) at 404-847-0072. IGTI, headquartered in Atlanta, GA, supports the exchange of information focused on improving the design, manufacture, operation and maintenance, and environmental impact of gas turbines, turbo-machinery, and related equipment. About ASME ASME helps the global engineering community develop solutions to real world challenges. Founded in 1880 as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, ASME is a not-for-profit professional organization that enables collaboration, knowledge sharing and skill development across all engineering disciplines, while promoting the vital role of the engineer in society. ASME codes and standards, publications, conferences, continuing education and professional development programs provide a foundation for advancing technical knowledge and a safer world.
Bridon Factory to produce world’s largest and most complex offshore, mining and crane ropes
Bridon International has invested £30m in a factory that will produce multi-strand ropes in gross package weights of up to 650 tons - making them by far the largest and most complex in the world. The facility will produce ropes of unmatched strength, safety and durability, and present a unique offer to customers looking to operate more challenging environments. The Bridon Neptune Quay site, which is located on Newcastle’s Tyneside, will be fully operational by the end of 2012. Bridon has already received production inquiries from a number of major multinational operators, and is planning a production schedule that will cater to the highest possible levels of demand. Key to the site’s unrivalled capacity is its unique closer machine, which is used to draw together thousands of wire strands into a single rope. Bridon’s closer is the first of its kind capable of making a 600 ton rope in a single pass, enabling the production of
Bridon’s new facility in Newcastle’s Tyneside is set to produce the world’s largest and most complex ropes.
longer and higher capacity ropes in a single piece and avoiding the need for multiple passes. Bridon Neptune Quay’s closer also boasts 24 bobbins (15 and 38 ton capacity), giving it the ability to make far more complex ropes than had ever previously been possible with such weights. Up until now, closers capable of producing very large ropes have typically had no more than eight bobbins. Jon Templeman, CEO of Bridon International Bridon Neptune Quay’s offer is not at the new facility . limited to the scale and complexity of of the art facility will expand the the ropes it will produce. The site’s boundaries of the possible for customdeep-water portside location will allow ers across the sector. Bridon Neptune Bridon to use innovative loading solu- Quay has been built to help us solve tions to reduce delivery timescales and our customers’ most significant technological challenges. order lead times for customers. “This factory, which is the most adJon Templeman, CEO of the Bridon vanced of its kind ever built, is a cruGroup, commented: “The ropes produced at this state continued on next page
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continued from previous page cial part of Bridon’s work to become the global technology leader in wire and rope solutions for offshore, mining and crane applications” Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, who on a recent visit to the site confirmed a grant from the government’s Regional Growth Fund for the project, said: “Bridon is a global technology leader in the manufacturing of steel and wire rope, and this state-of-the-art facility can be a valuable asset in strengthening the local and regional economy. We’ll be proud to see the facility furthering the region’s reputation as a global manufacturing base.”
Yale Cordage brings the power utilities industry the first and only dielectric rope worldwide to meet newly introduced ASTM International standard and achieve CE Certification
The Hy-Dee Brait Industrial Rope’s proprietary chemical treatment delivers maximum protection for live line work Yale Cordage, a custom and specialty rope manufacturer, announced its Hy-Dee Brait dielectric rope is the first and only rope on the market to meet the newly published ASTM standard for ropes with special electric properties. ASTM International develops and delivers international voluntary consensus standards used to improve product quality, enhance safety, facilitate market access and trade, and build consumer confidence. In addition, Hy-Dee Brait also achieved EN Standard CE 62192 certification, indicating the product meets European safety, health and environmental protection requirements. Hy-Dee Brait is an 8-strand bi-polymer rope that provides excellent grip and is treated with the company’s proprietary chemical mixture, Aralubedielectric. The treatment is critical to the rope’s wet dielectric performance, which makes it the highest dielectric strength rope commercially available. Under the new ASTM F1701-12 standard, the rope must not exceed a maximum leakage of 250 micro-amperes at any time during wet testing performed at 50KV AC. “The industry we’re serving with our Hy-Dee Brait product is one that has 56
unique, critical safety concerns,” said William Putnam, vice president, Yale Cordage. “By ensuring our product adheres to the newly published ASTM standard, we know our dielectric rope delivers the strength, durability and safety profile that this market needs and demands. Our customers deserve the best and we believe the Hy-Dee Brait exemplifies that.” In addition to its extraordinary dielectric properties, the Hy-Dee Brait is now easier to splice with a tucking procedure or by the quick splice method. A video comparing generic yellow polypropylene to Yale’s Hy-Dee Brait can be found at: http://www.yalecordage.com/videos. About Yale Cordage Saco, Maine-based Yale Cordage is a custom and specialty rope manufacturer that designs application-specific ropes: winchlines, stringing lines and blocklines for utilities; fiber optic pulling lines for telephone construction; bull ropes and climbing lines for arborists; safety lanyards and lifting slings for industrial applications; ropes for marine applications — from hawsers for mooring commercial tankers to halyards for sailing dinghies. Yale also designs and manufactures custom and specialty rope for specialty applications such as oceanographic arrays and faired electromechanical cables. For more information, please visit www.yalecordage.com.
J.C. Renfroe selects Allan Marketing Group of Australia as master distributor-agent for Australasia, Southeast Asia and South Korea
With industrial and construction growth increasing in the Asian markets, J.C. Renfroe & Sons, Inc., an international manufacturer and marketer of industrial lifting clamp products, based in Jacksonville, Florida, has selected the Allan Marketing Group of Victoria, Australia as its Master Distributor-Agent. The Allan Marketing Group will be responsible for promoting the sale and solicitation of orders for Renfroe’s product line in an assigned territory that includes, Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, South Pacific Islands, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, Hong Kong, Taiwan and South Korea. Renfroe offers a full line of lifting clamps and ancillary products such as crane blocks, sheaves and swivels. The
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
company, which has affiliated manufacturing facilities in Germany, Japan and Spain, supplies their products to customers around the world. Allan Marketing Group has over 35 years experience in the lifting industry and is an Asian supplier of hoists, chains, winches, wire rope fittings, plate clamps, hydraulic equipment, pallet trucks and lashing. “We are looking to grow our Asian markets,” explained Ron Raymond, vice president and general manager of J.C. Renfroe & Sons. “Our company wanted a distributor who has the reputation and experience to promote Renfroe’s product line throughout the southern Pacific Rim and Korea. We believe Allan Marketing Group is the right company to help us achieve our goals in these markets.” For more information about J.C.Renfroe & Sons, visit www.jcrenfroe.com. And to contact the Allan Marketing Group, go to info@titanlifting.com.
Equipment Lease Finance Industry confidence up in March
The Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation (the Foundation) releases the March 2012 Monthly Confidence Index for the Equipment Finance Industry (MCI-EFI). Designed to collect leadership data, the index reports a qualitative assessment of both the prevailing business conditions and expectations for the future as reported by key executives from the $628 billion equipment finance sector. Overall, confidence in the equipment finance market is 61.7, up from the February index of 59.6, indicating industry participants are optimistic despite concerns that external factors, including gas prices and the upcoming elections, may have on the market. When asked about the outlook for the future, MCI survey respondent Valerie Jester, President, Brandywine Capital Associates, Inc., commented, “I still remain optimistic, but it seems that increasing gas prices, looming elections, and lack of comfort with future government regulation have created a rather sluggish first quarter as far as the small business marketplace is concerned. We had hoped to see sustained momentum from strong fourth quarter activity, but it has yet to appear.” March 2012 Survey Results: The overall MCI-EFI is 61.7, an increase from the February index of 59.6.
• When asked to assess their business conditions over the next four months, 28.9% of executives responding said they believe business conditions will improve over the next four months, up from 23.5% in February. 71.1% of respondents believe business conditions will remain the same over the next four months, down from 73.5% in February. No one responded they believe business conditions will worsen, a decrease from 2.9% in February. • 34.2% of survey respondents believe demand for leases and loans to fund capital expenditures (capex) will increase over the next four months, an increase from 26.5% in February. 65.8% believe demand will “remain the same” during the same fourmonth time period, down from 67.6% the previous month. No one responded they believe demand will decline, down from 5.9% who believed so in February. • 21.1% of executives expect more access to capital to fund equipment acquisitions over the next four months, up from 20.6% in February. 78.9% of survey respondents indicate they expect the “same” access to capital to fund business, a decrease from 79.4% the previous month. No survey respondents expect “less” access to capital, unchanged from February. • When asked, 28.9% of the executives reported they expect to hire more employees over the next four months, up from 26.5% in February. 63.2% expect no change in headcount over the next four months, a decrease from 70.6% last month, while 7.9% expect fewer employees, up from 2.9% in February. • 89.5% of the leadership evaluates the current U.S. economy as “fair,” down from 91.2% last month. 10.5% rate it as “poor,” up from 8.8% in February. • 31.6% of survey respondents believe that U.S. economic conditions will get “better” over the next six months, up from 26.5% in February. 63.2% of survey respondents indicate they believe the U.S. economy will “stay the same” over the next six months, down from 70.6% in February. 5.3% responded that they believe economic conditions in the U.S. will worsen over the next six months, an increase from 2.9% who believed so last month. • In March, 28.9% of respondents indicate they believe their company will increase spending on business development activities during the next six months, up from 26.5% in February.
71.1% believe there will be “no change” in business development spending, down from 73.5% last month, and no one believes there will be a decrease in spending, unchanged from last month. March 2012 MCI Survey Comments from Industry Executive Leadership: Depending on the market segment they represent, executives have differing points of view on the current and future outlook for the industry. Bank, Middle Ticket “I am feeling very positive about the industry and hopeful of expansion as the economy grows over the next year.” Anthony Cracchiolo, president and CEO, Vendor Services, U.S. Bancorp Equipment Finance Independent, Small Ticket “Demand is steady and we expect it will remain so through 2012. We are expecting the election to have a chilling effect on business decision makers and this will likely hold demand down at moderate levels throughout the year. Portfolio quality remains excellent but we believe this has bottomed out and we will begin seeing a very slow rise in delinquencies as they work back to a more normal level.” David Schaefer, president, Orion First Financial, LLC Independent, Micro Ticket “While capital and portfolio performance issues are behind us, the growth story for our industry continues to be fragmented. Larger companies are the leading source of growth while the small/micro ticket segment continues to be influenced by the consumer segment with muted demand and aversion to debt. Until consumers open up their wallets, the small/micro ticket segment, and the general economy, will continue to sputter.” Paul Menzel, president and CEO, Financial Pacific Leasing, LLC. Why an MCI-EFI? Confidence in the U.S. economy and the capital markets is a critical driver to the equipment finance industry. Throughout history, when confidence increases, consumers and businesses are more apt to acquire more consumer goods, equipment and durables, and invest at prevailing prices. When confidence decreases, spending and risktaking tend to fall. Investors are said to be confident when the news about the future is good and stock prices are rising. Who participates in the MCI-EFI? The respondents are comprised of a wide cross section of industry executives, including large-ticket, middle-
market and small-ticket banks, independents and captive equipment finance companies. The MCI-EFI uses the same pool of 50 organization leaders to respond monthly to ensure the survey’s integrity. Since the same organizations provide the data from month to month, the results constitute a consistent barometer of the industry’s confidence. How is the MCI-EFI designed? The survey consists of seven questions and an area for comments, asking the respondents’ opinions about the following: 1. Current business conditions. 2. Expected product demand over the next four months. 3. Access to capital over the next four months. 4. Future employment conditions. 5. Evaluation of the current U.S. economy. 6. U.S. economic conditions over the next six months. 7. Business development spending expectations. 8. Open-ended question for comment. How may I access the MCI-EFI? Survey results are posted on the Foundation website, www.leasefoundation.org/IndRsrcs/MCI/, included in the Foundation Forecast newsletter and included in press releases. Survey respondent demographics and additional information about the MCI are also available at the link above. The Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides vision for the equipment leasing and finance industry through future-focused information and research. Primarily funded through donations, the Foundation is the only organization dedicated to future-oriented, in-depth, independent research for the leasing industry. Visit the Foundation online at www.LeaseFoundation.org.
Van Beest Houston moves to new premises
Because of the fast growing sales of their Green Pin and Excel items in the United States, Canada and Central America, Van Beest USA required more storage space to meet the increasing demands from these markets. Therefore they recently moved to a new facility at 1357 Sheffield Boulevard, near Houston International Seaport. This new location offers many advantages: • 15.000 square feet, or 1.400m2, continued on next page
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
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continued from previous page which is double the size of their previous warehouse. • Largest stock of quality lifting equipment in the area. • Logistic tools like barcode readers and onboard computers on their forklift trucks for quick and efficient packing and a minimum risk on mistakes. • Modern office space with fully equipped and comfortable meeting rooms. • Live computer connection to their other branches worldwide provides accurate information about availability, order status etc. • Easy to reach by truck to collect your shipment. If you want to see for yourself, you are more than welcome to visit them. Please contact the sales staff for further information at sales@vanbeestus.com.
Samson awarded Circle of Excellence by National Business Research Institute
Samson, a worldwide leader in performance rope, has received the Circle of Excellence Award by the National Business Research Institute (NBRI).
This prestigious award is given to companies earning the distinction of Customer Satisfaction Excellence from NBRI. Samson employed NBRI to conduct a survey to measure customer satisfaction. NBRI has over 30 years of experience in conducting scientific research for businesses and has identified issues and survey topics that are universal to all organizations. They provide survey results which reveal trends unique to Samson customers, and also benchmark survey results against other companies within an industry classification. To qualify for the Circle of Excellence award, Samson had to score at or above the 75th percentile when measured against NBRI’s Benchmarking Database. Tony Bon, Samson President, reports “We are pleased to be rated so highly among industry peers, however we are most interested in how we are measuring up to the expectations of our customers. To that end, from the survey data we have identified areas in which we feel we can improve your overall experience with Samson. Our goal remains continuous improvement, and we are always striving for 100% customer satisfaction.”
Lift-It® Manufacturing announces relocation to new facility
Michael J. Gelskey, Jr., Vice President and General Manager, Lift-It® Manufacturing is proud to announce the purchase of a new facility in Pomona, California. The 40,000 square foot, multi-million dollar building was purchased in the Mission-71 Business Park to provide the foundation for future expansion and continuing excellent customer service for those who demand and expect quality rigging and stellar service. Mr. Gelskey comments, “Our new facility will be one of the largest facilities devoted to the production of synthetic rigging products in the country and possibly the world. We made the purchase when I finally convinced my father that he could not see the floor in our existing facility. Every available square inch was allocated to finished stock, inventory and works in process. The new work flow process, machinery acquisitions and production personnel expansion will be necessary for the numerous marketing, sales and training programs we are continued on page 74
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Inventor’s Corner By William Fischer
Rope termination device Pat. 8,096,024 U.S. class 24/136K Int. class F16G 11/04 Inventor: Rory S. Smith, El Cajon, CA., Chi Phan, San Diego, CA., Alan M. Parker, Alpine, CA. Assignee: Thyssenkrupp Elevator Capital Corporation, Troy, MI. This patent offers a termination device for an aramidbased elevator rope having a high breaking strength. The termination device comprises a socket having a cylindrical, tapered internal passageway adapted to receive a corresponding wedge. The wedge includes a semi-cylindrical passageway in a substantially helical configuration to increase the surface area between the associated rope and the wedge. The termination device clamps the length of rope between tapered portions of the socket and the semicylindrical passageway of the wedge with a substantially uniform application of force on the cross-section of the rope. The tension member or rope 60 shown in the figures preferably comprises an aramid-based rope. Aramid is herein defined as any of a class of synthetic aromatic long-chain polyamides capable of extrusion into fibers having resistance to high temperatures and great strength. Suitable
Figure 2: Perspective drawing of one version of a rope termination device showing the socket and wedge and a rope inserted therein.
Figure 1: illustration of a typical traction elevator system showing the interconnection of various components of the system, including one version of a termination device.
materials include Kevlar™ aramid fiber, which is a polypara-phenylene terephthalamide aramid. Termination devices 80 and 85 are used to terminate the aramid-based rope in a manner that is secure and safe. It will be appreciated that the termination devices described herein are not limited to use with aramid fibers and may be used with any suitable rope, cable, wire rope, or the like. Referring now to the drawings in detail, wherein like numerals indicate the same elements throughout the views, figure 1 is an illustration of one version of a traction elevator system 10. The system includes a car 20, a counterweight 30, and a traction drive sheave 40. The car and the counterweight are connected to one another by a tension member or rope 60 that rides over the drive sheave 40, and sheaves 50 and 55, located over the car 20 and the counterweight 30, respectively. The tension member or rope 60 is attached to the top of the hoistway at its ends by rope termination devices 80 and 85. It will be appreciated that the continued on next page Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
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continued from previous page
Figure 3: Plan view of the device shown in figure 2.
traction elevator system 10 is described by way of example only, where the rope termination devices may be used with any suitable elevator system or any other system where ropes, cables, wire ropes, or the like, are mounted. Figures 2 and 3 illustrate one version of a rope termination device 80. The termination device 80 comprises a socket 90 configured to engage a wedge 100 such that the terminal end of a rope 60 is fixedly secured. The socket 90 or housing of the termination device 80 is configured for attachment via a fastener 95 to a hoistway, an elevator car, or any other suitable location where termination of a rope or cable is desired. In figure 1, the termination devices 80, 85 are fixed to the roof of a hoistway with fasteners 95. The socket 90 and/or fastener 95 may be welded, hinged, or otherwise affixed in any suitable manner to such a location. The body 92 of the socket 90 has a large end 96 and a small end 98 defining an internal passageway extending from a rear opening 97 to a front opening 93. The rear opening 97 is configured to accept the wedge 100 when the termination device 80 is assembled. The inner surface 94 of the socket 90 defines a tapered passageway 99 that corresponds to the taper of the wedge 100 such that, for example, an aramid elevator rope is fixedly secured when the wedge 100 is inserted into the socket 90 and the termination device 80 is assembled. When inserted, the wedge 100 engages the socket 90 in a luer slip fashion. The inner surface 94 of the socket 90 may be smooth, polished, and uniform, or it may include surface effects designed to engage and retain the wedge 100 and/or the rope 60. The dimensions and specific type of the socket, including groove depth and size, can be adjusted depending on the rope diameter. The wedge 100 is shown disposed within the tapered passageway 99 of the socket 90 to retain and secure the rope 60. The wedge 100, which corresponds in shape to the passageway of the socket 90, has a large end 65, a small end 60
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
Figure 4: Plan view of one version of a wedge.
63, and a tapered portion 67 between the large and small ends 65, 63. When the rope termination device is assembled, the large end 65 and the small end 63 of the wedge 100 are adjacent the large end 96 and small end 98 of the socket, respectively. Referring to figures 4 and 5, the wedge B has a uniform diameter, throughall bore 115 along a central axis A-A. In one version the throughall bore 115 is slightly larger than
Figure 5: Perspective view of the wedge showing various portions of a semi-cylindrical passageway.
the diameter of the rope 60. The bore 115 is configured to accept a portion of the rope 60 under tension through the opening of the bore at the small end 63 of the wedge 100. The rope 60 passes through the bore 115 and out the opening in the large end 65 of the wedge 100. The wedge 100 further comprises a peripheral groove 103 in the outer surface of the wedge 100 that is configured to receive the rope 60 after it passes through the bore 115. In one version, the rope is manually wrapped around the wedge. The length of the wrap will affect the compressive force on the rope, since the compressive force is uniformly distributed along the wedge. As the wedge is shortened, the rope will experience a higher compressive force. The wedge 100 contains a peripheral groove 103 for receiving a rope 60. The peripheral groove 103 on the wedge 100 may have a continuous or variable radius of curvature. The groove 103 preferably approximates the shape of the rope such that the rope is securely bound between the wedge 100 and the socket 90 when the termination device is assembled. The depth of the groove may vary depending on the rope diameter, where the depth of the groove may be selected to provide sufficient friction between the rope and wedge without crushing the rope. The peripheral groove 103 is divided into an upper portion 110 and a lower portion 105 having a substantially helical shape. The helical configuration is described by way of example only, where any suitable configuration that extends the contact surface area between the rope and termination is contemplated. The upper portion 110 is configured to accept the rope 60 as it passes from the central bore. After exiting the bore 115 the rope 60 is wound around both the upper portion 110 and lower portion 105 of the wedge 100. The large radius of the top portion is to allow the rope to wrap around wedge without carrying majority of the load. After the rope 60 has been fitted into the peripheral groove 103 the wedge 100 is urged into the socket 90 such that the wedge 100 and socket engage in a luer slip relationship. In one version, the rope is fully wrapped around the wedge prior to the assembly. In the assembled configuration, the rope 60 passes through the front opening 93 of the socket, through the bore 115 of the wedge, and around the peripheral groove 103 of the wedge 100. The live end of the rope, which passes through the bore 115, is connected to another component in the elevator system, such as a sheave, whereas the dead end of the rope 143 does not bear a load. The wedge 100 may be formed from any material which will retain its structural integrity and can keep the rope 60 secured in the termination device 80 without slippage. In one version the wedge 100 is constructed of polished steel. It will be appreciated that any suitable material, such as cast iron, may be used. Magnetostrictive sensor probe for guided-wave inspection and monitoring of wire ropes/cables and anchor rods Pat. 8,098,065 U.S. class 324/240 Int. class G01N 27/82 Inventor: Hegeon Kwun, San Antonio, TX., Albert J. Parvin Jr., San Antonio, TX., Erika Christine Laiche, San Antonio, TX. Assignee: Southwest Research Institute, San Antonio, TX. An economical, flexible, magnetostrictive sensor (MsS) probe assembly for use on longitudinal cylindrical struccontinued on next page Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
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continued from previous page tures, for guided-wave, volumetric inspection of the structures is described. The paired flexible plate MsS probes each include a flexible strip of magnetostrictive material that is positioned and/or adhered to the base of a generally flat, flexible, conductor coil assembly, preferably with an elastomeric adhesive. The conductor coil assembly has a core composed of a thin flexible layer of metal and a thin bendable permanent magnet circuit. The flexible core is surrounded by a flat flexible cable (FFC) that is folded and looped over the layers of the core. The exposed conductors at the ends of the FFC are shifted from each other by one conductor spacing and joined together so that the parallel conductors in the FFC form a flat, flexible, continuous coil. The probe assemblies may preferably be utilized in pairs and conformed to match the curved contours of the cylindrical surface of the structure under investigation in a manner that is specifically tailored for wire rope, cable, and anchor rod type applications. Reference is made first to figure 6 for a brief description of the basic structure and function of the magnetostrictive sensor probe assembly of the present invention. Figure 6 illustrates in a partial cross-sectional view, a pair of flexible plate MsS probes of the present invention positioned on either side of a longitudinal cylindrical structure (a larger, wound wire cable in this case). Each of the probe’s layered structures may best be described according to its cross-sectional configuration which, as shown functionally in figure 7. This structure is functionally composed of thin layers of: a magnetostrictive strip; a flat flexible cable (FFC); a permanent magnetic circuit comprising an array of small permanent magnets pieces (preferably set in an elastomeric material); and a metal strip. The FFC is folded and looped over the balance of the layers. The exposed conductors at the ends of the FFC are shifted from each other by one conductor spacing and joined together so that the parallel conductors in the FFC form a continuous coil as illustrated in figure 8. A schematic illustration of the MsS probe assembly of the present invention for the inspection and long-term monitoring of a wire rope/cable 10 is shown in figure 6. The probe
Figure 6: Partial cross-sectional view of the magnetostrictive sensor probe assembly shown using a pair of sensor probes positioned on either side of a larger cylindrical bundle of wire rope.
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Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
Figure 7: Schematic block diagram disclosing the functional layers of the magnetostrictive sensor probe assembly.
assembly is divided into two halves 14a and 14b that are identical and symmetrical. Each half includes: the above mentioned thin layers of a magnetostrictive strip 12 with a high transduction efficiency, a flat flexible cable (FFC) 20 containing multiple parallel conductors at a small spacing (for example 0.5 mm), an array of small permanent magnets 16, an elastomeric material (such as silicon rubber) (not shown), and a thin layer of metal shield 18. The magnetostrictive strip 12 is attached to the FFC 20 using an elastomeric adhesive (such as silicon or polyurethane) (not shown for clarity in figure 6). The FFC 20 is folded and looped over the balance of the layers. The ends of the FFC 20 are electrically joined to a printed circuit board with FFC connectors 22. The circuit board is designed to form a continuous coil as illustrated in figure 7. Electric wires 24 are then soldered to the ends of this coil 20 thus formed to connect the probe to the requisite MsS Instrumentation. Also disclosed in figure 6 is the manner of securing the “clam-shell� like halves of the probe assembly of the present invention to the wire rope/cable 10 under inspection or monitoring. A variety of mechanisms may be utilized to position and retain the probe assembly on the cylindrical structure. In the example shown in figure 6, a pair of clamp elements 26, removably connected together using clamp connector elements 28, provide a simple yet rugged means for securing the assembly to the wire rope/cable. Other means for securing the probe assembly are contemplated, such as belts, straps, cable ties, and the like. Figure 7 discloses in greater detail the manner in which the various layers of the probe assembly function to achieve the generation of guided-waves into the structure being investigated and to receive reflected guided-waves back from the structure to be detected within the NDE instrumentation. Figure 7 provides a representative cross-section of one of the two layered structures of the flexible probe assembly of the present invention. In this view, magnetostrictive strip 12 is shown as it would be placed in position against the surface of the structure (wire rope/cable 10) being investigated. The conductor coil assembly 14, comprising the multiple layers described in more detail below, is posi-
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tioned over magnetostrictive strip 12 and adhered thereto by way of elastomeric adhesive 15. Some intermittent spacing with regard to the placement of elastomeric adhesive 15 may facilitate the lateral movement of conductor coil assembly 14 with respect to magnetostrictive strip 12, as may be necessitated through the bending of the probe. Conductor coil assembly 14 is itself comprised of internal layers surrounded by flat flexible cable 20 as described above. In this cross-sectional view it is the lower side layer of flat flexible cable 20 that provides the contact surface with magnetostrictive strip 12 through elastomeric adhesive 15. Within flat flexible cable 20 are the layers comprising thin flexible metal strip 18, elastomeric material 17, and permanent magnet circuit 16. Once again, each of these layers is constructed to allow some lateral movement of the layers upon bending of the flexible sensor probe so
Figure 8: Schematic representation of the structure of the flat flexible cable (FFC) coil conductor connection.
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as to prevent buckling or separation of the layers during use. Each constituent layers in the probe is flexible and can move from each other. The probe therefore can accommodate a large range of surface curvatures. Figure 8 discloses in greater detail the manner in which the flat flexible cable (FFC) is arranged to create a continuous loop coil. Flat flexible cable, sometimes referred to as “ribbon cable,” is commonly used with electronic circuits, often to connect one circuit board to another where a flexible path is required. Such cable is, therefore, relatively inexpensive although its use is almost universally limited to parallel path conductor connection. In the present invention, the FFC is used to easily establish a continuous conductor coil (that remains flexible and flat) by connecting the ends of the flat cable together after shifting the conductors by one conductor path. In this manner, as shown in figure 8, the first conductor 30a of one end of the cable 20 is left free for external connection while the second conductor 32a of the first end is connected to the first conductor 30b of the second end of the cable. In this manner, the nth conductor 36a of the first end of the cable 20 is connected to the n-1 conductor 34 of the second end of the cable 20, leaving the nth conductor 36b of the second end free for external connection. When the free conductors (one from each end of the flat cable) are connected to a current source 38, the device functions as a continuous conductor coil suitable for establishing a current varying dependent magnetic field within the volume inside and around the coil. It is this magnetic field continued on next page Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
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continued from previous page fluctuation that initiates the magnetostrictive effect in the magnetostrictive strip of the sensor probe assembly of the present invention. The reverse magnetostrictive effect allows the sensor probe to detect the guided waves within the object structure under investigation as they move through the magnetostrictive strip and measurably alter the magnetic field within and about the coil. The permanent magnet array in the probe provides a DC bias magnetic field required for MsS longitudinal guidedwave generation and detection. The elastomeric material layer helps to evenly distribute the pressing force over the entire contacting surface of the magnetostrictive strip and, thus, achieve uniform mechanical coupling across the contacting surface. The metal shield screens off the time varying magnetic field produced by the upper part of the coil. To facilitate the coupling between the magnetostrictive strip and the ground wire, an intermediary compliant coupling layer (not shown in figure 6) may be placed on the magnetostrictive layer. Replacement of underground pipes Pat. 8,109,694 U.S. class 405/184.3 Int. class F16L 55/18 Inventor: Michael Tjader, New Richmond, WI. Assignee: TT Technologies, Inc., Aurora, IL. This document discusses, among other things, devices, apparatuses, and methods for the replacement of existing
Figure 9: Side view of one embodiment of the apparatus in a trenchless pipe replacement operation.
underground pipes. In general, an apparatus comprises a body, including a receiving portion, and a breaking assembly adapted to be positioned within the receiving portion and detachably coupled to the body. In one example, the body and the breaking assembly are adapted, when coupled, to split the existing underground pipe when pulled through using one or more cutting wheels. In varying examples, each cutting wheel radially protrudes out of a breaking assembly housing an increasing amount along a length of the apparatus allowing for a clean, progressive cut of the existing pipe. In another example, the body and the breaking assembly are adapted, when coupled, to burst the existing pipe when pulled through. Advantageously, the present devices, apparatuses, and methods may provide replacement of underground pipes requiring minimal excavation and making economical use of parts. Figure 9 is a side view illustrating utilization of one embodiment of an apparatus 102 in a trenchless pipe replacement operation 100. An existing pipe 104 that is being replaced is disposed beneath the ground level surface 106. A first hole 108 may be dug to reveal a first end 110 of existing pipe 104 and a second hole 122 may be dug to reveal a second end 120 of existing pipe 104. Apparatus 102 may be inserted within the first end 110 of existing pipe 104. Apparatus 102 generally includes a body 112 (figures 10 and 11) and a breaking assembly 114. A length of replacement pipe 116 is removably engaged to a trailing end of apparatus 102. A cable 118, which can be made of wire rope, is passed through the pipe 104 and attached with a leading end of apparatus 102. In one example, cable 118 is attached to the leading end of apparatus 102 via a pinned arrangement. In
Figure 10: isometric view illustrating embodiment of the apparatus.
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Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
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to spreadreplacement the load. Movement Feedwater Heaters in system determine how to spread to the Replaces another example, cable the 118load is attached to the leading end Advantageously, the trenchless operation inside theoperate building was Coal-fired Power Plant launch pad 102 foundation. However, of apparatus via a hooked arrangement. Other connec100 may be easy to set up and (e.g., dig facilitated holes at each the cable use of and a Barnhart was calledend upon to extract NASA was uncertain thethe amount tions between cable about 118 and leading end of apparatus of existing pipethrough 104, attach to air-casters appropriately-sized light-slide system. Barnhart President two old feedwater heaters and replace of load the foundation could withstand. 102 may also be used and are within the scope of the pres- apparatus 102 (including body 112 and breaking assemAlan Barnhart plan a may coal-fired power plant in replacement Still another challenge was ent devices, apparatuses, anddeciding methods. them Cable at 118 be bly 114), attach pipecharacterized to apparatusthe 102, and how to erect the lifting structure Sioux City, Iowa. Weighing approxi- as less expensive but more tedious than utilized to pull apparatus 102 through existing pipe 104, pull apparatus 102 through pipe 104). As a result, minimal beneath the launch structure, which mately 80 tons each, the new feedwater alternative plans. Through its innovabreakingS and and inenlarging gles • the Dopipe Do ub104 lesas•it isTrpulled iplethrough. s • Regcrews ularmay anbreak an d He He avreplace y Wo Wosubstantial oden Bl Blengths locksand varialso can rotate around the launch pad. heaters were 40 feet long and 6 feet in tive strategy, Barnhart completed the In one example, breaking pipe 104 includes splitting the ous types of existing pipe 104 in a short amount of time. This would mean that the lifting towers diameter. The old heaters that needed sc ope of its wor k in thr ee d ay s, pipe 104 along two substantially line another from ex- the In one example, pipes 104 made to beInextracted building were apparatus would require elevations,one one at of cut. reducing102 the replaces originally planned plant of ample, breaking pipe 104 includes bursting the pipe 104 metal (including corrugated structures) or polymers. More124 feet and one at 103 feet – a 21 foot slightly heavier and shorter. The evacuation time by 75 percent. into many pieces. Replacement pipe 116 may be simultaover, because the operation is essentially trenchless (e.g., difference between jacking points. heaters were originally placed in the Under $150,000: PSC Crane and neously pulled apparatus 102, such that during when apno need to when excavateRigging’s along theMove entireand length of pipe 104 building its construction, Barnhart used behind Modular Lift Towers Installation of to paratus 102 has been entirely existing pipehowever, be replaced), considerable lengths of trench work and costly the roof was off; for several and hydraulic jacks topulled lift and securethrough a Diesel Generator Package 104,structure replacement 116 willtaking reside within or restoration are reasons,the thesplit roof could not be opened upavoided. the while pipe innovatively Last winter, PSC Crane & Rigging broken pipeof104 functionally Figures 10 and 11 are isometric viewsaillustrating two for the replacement. advantage thetolaunch pad’s replace rota- it. successfully completed very complex T h e c u s t o m e r ’ s embodiments o r i g i n a l p l aofn apparatus tional ability for positioning purposes. rigging job that with above, off-loading 102. Asbegan discussed appaAlready concerned about the maze of required a high-capacity andfor transferring 8 megawatt that ratus crane 102 may be used the trenchlessan replacement of an duct work, piping and steel, Barnhart would have driven upexisting generator a rail carembodionto the costunderground of the Wartsila pipe 104. In bothfrom illustrative crews also had to worry about high job. Barnhart proposedments, a nine-line trailer. then a less expensive apparatus 102 includesGoldhofer a body 112 (e.g.PSC a spreader winds and lightning prevalent in the alternative that used hauled the 332,000 pound generator – its 800 ton portion) and a breaking assembly 114. In varying examspring. On several occasions, the job capacity Demag TC 3000 which measured 44 feet long, 10 feet 10 lattice boom ples, body 112 includes a receiving portion 124, such as was shut down at the first sight of truck crane. Both the extraction of the inches wide and 14 feet 2 inches high – a longitudinally-extending receiving portion. The breaking lightning because nobody involved old heaters and the installation of the a mile to the Indian Power Plant near All Material Factory Certified assembly 114 may be positioned within the receiving porwanted to take chances with such an new ones required movement along a Rensselaer, Ohio. Wooden Shell Blocks 3� to coupled 16� The tion 124 and to body 112. In one example, breakexisting opening in the buildexpensive, highly technical apparatus. circuitous path through the building to ing assembly 114 is detachably coupled to body 112, such which measured a After successfully completing the and from a hole in an exterior wall ing’s brick façade, For more as by bolt and nut 126. Other attachment means Associated Wire Rope & Rigging, Inc. Waterman Supply Co., Inc. to be project, Barnhart and NASA concluded more than 100 feet above grade. little more than 10 feet wide, hadbetween information, 8125 Saran Drive, Playa Del Rey, CA 90293 breaking assembly 114 and body 112the may be used without 910 Mahar Ave., Wilmington, CA 90748 enlarged before generator could as 2 inches. the launch structure weighed about 5 Clearances were as tight contact: departing from scope of thePSC present devices, 1-800-901-1135 Ph: 1-800-322-3131 Fax: 310-522-1043 pass through. used a 500 tonapparaJ&R To 310-448-5446 adjust to inconsistencies in the million pounds, Ph: of which Barnhart Fax: and methods. When coupled, body 112 and breaking gantry system equipped flooring throughouttuses, the building, lifted about 2.5 million pounds. Email: awrrinc@earthlink.net Email:Lift-NLock waterman@bigplanet.com Figure 11: isometric view illustrating anotherBarnhar embodiment ofgin theeerassembly 114 are to break existing with a 400 ton J&R Powerunderground Rotator to t en s developed a adapted $150,000-$750,000: Barnhart apparatus. continued on next page Wire Rope News & Sling Technology August 2006 Wire Rope News & Sling Technology August 2006
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
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continued from previous page pipe 104 when pulled through. It is often important in many trenchless pipe replacement operations 100 for body 112 to be substantially similar in size to an inner diameter of existing pipe 104 (notably, a similar size between body 112 and the inner diameter of existing pipe 104 may ensure that breaking assembly 114 has adequate supporting force to produce a break). It follows then, for different sized existing pipes 104, different sized apparatuses 102 may be needed. Advantageously, body 112 and breaking assembly 114 are adapted to be detachably coupled. As a result, breaking assembly 114 may be used interchangeably with different sized bodies 112 to form apparatus 102. One advantage of such an arrangement is that rather than having to purchase many different sized apparatuses 102 (e.g., non-detachable body 112, breaking assembly 114 combinations), a purchaser may purchase a single breaking assembly 114 and a plurality of different sized bodies 112, which are cheaper to manufacture (and thus purchase) than whole combinations (e.g., breaking assembly 114 and body 112). As shown, breaking assembly 114, which is coupled to body 112 in the illustrative figure 10, may also be coupled to smaller (diameter) body 112 of figure 11. Elevator and system and method for locking an elevator car in place Pat. 8,113,319 U.S. class 187/379 Int. class B66B 5/16 Inventor: Aripekka Anttila, Jarvenpaa, FI., Esko Aulanko, Kerava, FI., Hakan Barneman, Solna, SE., Osmo Bjorni, Hyvinkaa, FI. Assignee: Kone Corporation, Helsinki, FI. An elevator may include an elevator car, one or more hoisting ropes, a traction sheave, an overspeed governor, at least one safety gear, a locking mechanism, and guide rails. The car may be suspended by the one or more hoisting ropes. The traction sheave may move the car using the one or more hoisting ropes. At least one safety gear and locking mechanism may be fitted in conjunction with the car. The overspeed governor may be configured to activate and release, via a linkage, at least one safety gear during operation of the elevator. The locking mechanism may be configured to activate and release, by operatively acting on the linkage, at least one safety gear during installation, maintenance, or installation and maintenance of the elevator. When activated, at least one safety gear may engage one of the guide rails to lock the car in place. Figure 12 presents an elevator without counterweight according to the invention, in which elevator a roping arrangement with a 2:1 suspension ratio is used in the portions of the hoisting ropes 3 above and below the elevator car 1 and DW roping is used between the traction sheave
NEW ENGLAND ROPES 848 AIRPORT ROAD • FALL RIVER, MA 02720 508-730-4524 • BSHAKESPEARE@NEROPES.COM WWW.NEROPES.COM Figure 14: Locking mechanism according to the invention.
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Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
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5 and the diverting pulley 6. Compensation of rope elonWire Rope News & Sling Technology August 2006 gations and constant rope forces are implemented using a rope elongation compensating device as presented in figure 12, which produces a rope force ratio of T1/T2=2/1. In the elevator it is also possible to use a different type of hoist-
Figure 12: Diagram representing a traction sheave elevator without counterweight and a locking mechanism.
ing rope compensator, such as e.g. a lever or a tensioning wheel set or some other compensating device applicable for the purpose. The hoisting ropes run as follows. One end of the hoisting ropes is secured to a diverting pulley 25 fitted to hang on the rope portion coming downwards from diverting pulley 14. Diverting pulleys 14 and 25 together with the anchorage 26 of the second end of the hoisting rope form a rope force compensating system, which in the case of figure 12 is a compensating sheave system. This compensating device is fitted in place in the elevator shaft. From diverting pulley 25, the hoisting ropes 3 go upwards and meet diverting pulley 14, which is mounted above the elevator car in the elevator shaft, preferably in the upper part of the elevator shaft, passing around it along rope grooves provided in the diverting pulley 14. These rope grooves may be coated or uncoated, the coating consisting of e.g. a friction increasing material, such as polyurethane or some other appropriate material. From diverting pulley 14, the ropes go further downwards to a diverting pulley 9 fitted in place on the elevator car, and having passed around this pulley, the ropes 3 go further upwards in tangential contact with diverting pulley 6 to the traction sheave 5. Diverting pulley is preferably fitted in the vicinity and/or in conjunction with the hoisting machine 4. Between diverting pulley 6 and the traction sheave 5 of the hoisting machine 4, the figure shows DW (Double Wrap) roping, in which roping the hoisting ropes 3 run in tangential contact with diverting pulley 6 upwards to the traction sheave 5, and having passed around the traction sheave 5 the hoisting ropes recontinued on next page Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
67
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continued from previous page turn to diverting pulley 6, pass around it and return back to the traction sheave 5. Figure 13 presents a locking mechanism according to the invention arranged in conjunction with the car frame of an elevator car, by means of which mechanism the elevator car can be locked in place, e.g., during installation and/or maintenance work. The safety gear 227 is fitted to the car
Figure 13: Diagrammatic illustration of an elevator and its locking mechanism, which locking mechanism has been fitted to the car frame of the elevator.
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Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
frame so that it will engage the elevator guide rails so as to lock the elevator car in place on the elevator guide rails. The elevator car may have more than one safety gear, preferably two or more safety gears fitted on it, each one of which can be actuated by means of the locking mechanism of the invention. The mechanism presented in figure 13 is in the position of normal elevator operation or normal mode, in which position the safety gear is activated by means of an overspeed governor 231, normally in a situation where a predetermined speed of the overspeed governor 231 is exceeded. The overspeed governor activates the safety gear by means of a linkage 228 according to prior art. From the normal position of the locking mechanism, the linkage 228 activates the safety gear 227 immediately when the locking mechanism is turned to the service position. To release the safety gear 227 using an actuating element 230 (of which there may be more than one and they may be located anywhere on the elevator car, yet preferably on the top of the elevator car or in some other location easily accessible to a person working on the top of the elevator car), the safety gear 227 is acted on via the linkage 228 so as to release the safety gear 227. It is then possible to drive and/or move the elevator car. The elevator locking mechanism may be provided with a switching element 233 (shown in figure 14) for indicating the state of the locking mechanism. For example, the switching element 233 or elements 233 may indicate when the locking mechanism is in the service position, thus informing the elevator system about the state of the mechanism, and in this situation, e.g., only operation in maintenance mode is possible. The locking mechanism may also comprise a so-called “dead man’s switch�, which is used for monitoring to ensure that when the actuating element 230 of the locking mechanism is released, the safety gear 227 is activated, i.e., grips the guide rail immediately. This arrangement can be easily implemented by using, e.g., a gas spring or some other arrangement applicable for the purpose, in which arrangement the safety gear 227 is caused to be activated immediately after the user action on the actuating element 230 of the locking mechanism ceases while the elevator locking mechanism is in the service position. An elevator without counterweight may start moving in an uncontrolled manner only downwards during, e.g., installation, maintenance or normal operation because it has no counterweight. In the elevator of the invention, it is possible to use as safety devices during installation and maintenance work only the safety gears 227 which can be activated and released by means of the locking mechanism. In addition, the safety gears 227 used may be of a type functioning in one direction only, in other words, in the case of an elevator without counterweight, preventing escape in the downward direction only. Figure 14 presents a locking mechanism according to the invention which can be included as a part of the elevator if necessary. For example, a serviceman can add the locking mechanism to an elevator when he has to work on the top of the elevator car. Figure 14 presents a detachable locking element 332 that can be taken along (it also shows overspeed governor 331). The locking element 332 is preferably a pedal which is fitted in place on the elevator car or the frame of the elevator car, on brackets 333 provided for it, and added as a part of the safety gear locking linkage 330. Figure 14 also shows an example embodiment of switching
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element 233, discussed above. When the pedal is pressed down, e.g. by foot, the elevator safety gears will be released in the manner described in connection with figures 12 and 13, whereupon it is possible to move the elevator car, e.g., when the elevator is to be operated in maintenance mode. The pedal also functions as a so-called dead man’s switch, which means that when the resistance to the pedal disappears, the safety gears will be activated, i.e., they will grip, preferably the guide rails of the elevator car. The locking element 332 together with its actuator can be advantageously placed on either side of the elevator car and the locking linkage 330, in which case the elevator car or the car frame of the elevator car may be provided with at least two mounting points and/or mounting brackets or other equipment on which and by means of which the locking element 332 is secured in place. A serviceman can easily carry the locking element 332 along due to its light construction. In addition, the locking element 332 can be easily and quickly mounted in place as a part of an elevator, and the locking element 332 is cheap. In respect of operation, the locking element 332 is simple to mount in place, and its practically impossible to use it incorrectly because, when the locking element 332 is not pressing the locking linkage 330 downwards, the equipment provided in the safety gear, preferably a gas spring or equivalent, activates the safety gear into the activated state and the elevator is stopped. Automotive construction engine and lifting column for a contruction engine Pat. 8,113,592 U.S. class 299/39.6 Int. class E01C 23/12 Inventor: Peter Busley, Linz/Rhein, DE., Gunter Tewes,
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accutech-mis.com Unkel/Rhein, DE. Assignee: Wirtgen GmbH, DE. A road construction machine includes a machine frame, a working drum and a plurality of ground engaging supports. A plurality of lifting columns are connected between the machine frame and the ground engaging supports. Each of the lifting columns include two telescoping hollow cylinders. A plurality of lifting position measuring devices are provided, each measuring device being coupled with elements of one of the lifting columns, which elements are capable of being displaced relative to one another in accordance with the lifting position of the lifting column in such a manner that a path signal pertaining to a lifting position of the lifting column is continuously detectable by the measuring device. A controller is operably connected to the lifting position measuring devices to receive the path signals and to regulate the lifting positions of the lifting columns in response to the path signals. Figure 15 shows a road construction machine 1 for producing and working carriageways by stabilizing insufficiently stable soils or by recycling road surfaces, with a machine frame 4 supported by a chassis 2. The chassis 2 is provided with two each rear and front wheels 10, which are attached to lifting columns 14 in a height-adjustable manner and can be raised and lowered independently of one another or also synchronously to one another. It is understood that other drive means like, for instance, crawler track units may also be provided in lieu of the wheels 10. The wheels or crawler track units may also be referred to as ground engaging supports for supporting continued on next page Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
69
continued from previous page the construction machine on the ground surface or traffic surface 24. The lifting columns 14 are attached to the machine frame 4. As can be seen from figures 15 and 16, an operator’s platform 12 for a vehicle driver is arranged at the machine frame 4 above the front wheels 10 or in front of the front wheels 10, with a combustion engine 32 for the travel drive and for driving a working drum 6 being arranged behind the driver. In this manner, the operator’s platform 12 can be ergonomically optimized for the vehicle driver. The working drum 6 which rotates, for instance, in opposition to the direction of travel when seen in the direction of travel, and the axis of which extends transversely to the direction of travel, is mounted to pivot relative to the machine frame 4 in such a manner that it is capable of being pivoted from an idle position to a working position, as depicted in figure 15, by means of pivoting arms 42 arranged on both sides. Each pivoting arm 42 is mounted in the machine frame 4 at one end and accommodates the support of the working drum 6 at its other end.
Figure 17: Lifting column of the construction machine.
Figure 15: Side view of the construction machine in which the working drum is in a working position.
It is also possible to operate the machine 1 in reversing direction, with the milling operation then taking place synchronously to the direction of travel. The working drum 6 is, for instance, equipped with cutting tools that are not depicted in the drawings in order to be able to work a ground surface or traffic surface 24. The working drum 6 is surrounded by a hood 28 which, as can be seen from figure 15, is capable of being raised together with the working drum 6 by means of the pivoting arms 42. In operating position, the hood 28 rests on the ground surface or traffic surface 24 to be worked, while the working drum 6 is capable of being pivoted further down according to the milling depth. Figure 17 shows an individual lifting column 14 comprising two hollow cylinders 13, 15 which are capable of telescoping in a form-fitting manner. The hollow cylinders 13,
Figure 16: Top view of the construction machine.
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Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
15 serve as guiding unit for the height adjustment of the machine frame 4. The upper outer hollow cylinder 13 is attached at the machine frame 4, and the lower inner hollow cylinder 15 is attached at a support 11 which may be coupled with a wheel 10 or a crawler track unit. The lifting column 14 is further provided with a hydraulic piston cylinder unit 16 for the stroke adjustment. The piston cylinder unit 16 acts between the machine frame 4 and the support 11, so that the machine frame 4 is capable of being adjusted in height relative to the support 11 and thus, ultimately, relative to the ground surface or the traffic surface 24 respectively. The piston element of the piston cylinder unit 16 is attached at the support 11, and the cylinder element of the piston cylinder unit 16 is attached at the upper hollow cylinder 13, which is attached at the machine frame 4. The lifting column 14 is provided with a measuring device 18 for measuring the current lifting state of the lifting column 14. In the embodiment, the said measuring device 18 includes a wire-rope 22 that is attached to the support 11 or the lower hollow cylinder 15 and is, on the other hand, coupled with a wire-rope sensor 21 that is attached at the cylinder element of the piston cylinder unit 16 or at the upper hollow cylinder 13. The stroke path of the lifting column 14 can be measured by means of the wire-rope sensor 21. The wire-rope sensor 21, and the path signal produced by the same, is ultimately also suitable for being converted into a velocity signal or acceleration signal by including a time measurement. The measured path signal of the wire-rope sensor 21 is transmitted to an indicator device 20 and/or a controller 23 by means of a signal line 26. The indicator device 20 and/or the controller 23 receive measured path signals from each lifting column. With a total of four existing lifting columns
14, four measured path signals can be displayed in the indicator device 20, so that the vehicle driver is immediately informed about the current lifting state of each lifting column and can alter the lifting position, if required. Offshore vertical-axis wind turbine and associated systems and methods Pat. 8,118,538 U.S. class 415/115 Int. class F01D 5/18 Inventor: Yih-Ho Michael Pao, Houston, TX. Assignee: Floating Windfarms Corporation, Houston, TX. An offshore wind turbine has a vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) mounted on a platform. The VAWT has a vertical rotor and curved blades coupled to a gearbox and an electric generator. The VAWT can fixedly extend from the platform or may be capable of reclining on the platform either manually or automatically. The platform can be composed of modular elements coupled together. Offshore, the platform can be semi-submersible with the VAWT extending out of the water and with a counterbalance extending below the platform. Alternatively, the platform can float on the water’s surface and can have several arms that extend outwardly from the VAWT to increase the platform’s footprint. To anchor the turbine offshore, anchoring sys-
Figure 19: Top view of an offshore wind turbine having a vertical-axis wind turbine and having a counterweight for deeper waters.
shown, the floating platform 110 can be submerged below the surface of the water so that, under normal operating conditions, the platform 110 can hold the VAWT’s blades 52 above the water level to catch the wind. A central post 112 with a counterweight 114 extends below the platform 110 to balance the turbine 100 and to keep the rotor 52 oriented relatively vertically out of the water. This counterweight 114 counterbalances against the moment of the wind force F over the wind turbine 100 having height H that tends to tilt the wind turbine 100. To minimize the tilting by the wind, the counterweight 114 having a weight W and extending a length L below the platform 110 should be designed in such a way that WxL is at least greater than FxH. The platform 110 can have either a hollow or a solid construction and can be constructed using various materials. For example, the platform 110 can be a shell made of composite, fiberglass, metal, concrete, or other material and can be filled with air or ballast material. In general, the floating platform 110 can be a barge or a semi-submersible and can have extended horizontal reaches to increase its stability. To minimize the use of material, for example, the platform 110 may not be of a rectangular or cylindrical shape and can instead have expanded horizontal extents to increase its stability. In this way, the platform 110 can have a cross or star-shape with 3 or more arms to provide continued on next page
Figure 18: Side view of an offshore wind turbine having a vertical-axis wind turbine and having a counterweight for deeper waters.
tems can anchor the platform to the seabed while allowing the floating wind turbine to adjust passively or actively to changes in sea level due to tidal variations or storm swells. A first embodiment of an offshore wind turbine 100 illustrated in figures 18 and 19 has a vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) 50 of the Darrieus type, although other types could be used. The VAWT 50 has a vertical rotor 52, a plurality of curved blades 54, a gearbox 56, an electric generator 58, and internal electrical components (not shown) each of which can be essentially the same as those used with landbased VAWTs known in the art. The offshore wind turbine 100 has a floating platform 110 that supports the VAWT 50 in the water. In general, the VAWT 50 mounted on the floating platform 110 can be a cantilevered system or can be held up with guy-cables. As
Figure 20: upper perspective view of a second embodiment of an offshore wind turbine for shallower waters.
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
71
continued from previous page support in the water. Although usable in various depths of water, this offshore wind turbine 100 is suitable for use in deeper waters offshore having depths greater than 30 meters, for example. When deployed, the turbine’s platform 110 can be anchor to the seabed 40 using any number of available anchoring systems known in the art. For example, the anchoring system can be a catenary anchoring system or a tension-leg anchoring system that is used for the floating platforms for offshore oil and gas drilling and production. As shown, a plurality of cables 116 and fasteners or mooring anchors 117 directly affix the platform 110 to the seabed 40 according to a taut leg mooring arrangement, but a catenary or other mooring arrangement could be used. In general, the cables 116 can be steel wire rope, and the fasteners or mooring anchors 117 can be drag embedded anchors,
Figure 21: Lower perspective view of a second embodiment of an offshore wind turbine for shallower waters.
piles, suction anchors, or any other type of mooring anchor known in the art. The floating platform 110 is anchored at three or more points to the seabed at three or more points to prevent it from rotating. A second embodiment of an offshore wind turbine 200 is illustrated in figures 20 and 21. As shown in figure 20 and similar to the previous embodiment, the offshore wind turbine 200 has a VAWT 50 with a rotor 52, curved or straight lifting blades 54, a gearbox (not shown), an electric generator (not shown), or a direct-drive generator without a gearbox, and other conventional components. In this embodiment, however, the rotor 52 and blades 54 extend from a stand 210 mounted on the surface of a floating platform or barge 220. This platform 220 can be made of heavy but low-cost materials, such as reinforced concrete, to enhance its stability over water. In addition, the platform 220 can have extended horizontal reaches, with three or more extended arms, to further increase its stability as well as serving as a platform for the guy-cables to fasten to. (The stand 210 may house the gearbox, electric generator, or a direct-drive generator without the gearbox and other conventional components). Guy cables 216 extend from the platform 220 to the top 72
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
of the rotor 52 to stabilize the assembly. By using these guy cables 216, the rotor 52 and blades 54 can be made of lightweight material and can mount close to the platform 220, giving the offshore wind turbine 200 a low profile and a low center of gravity. Elevator rope positioning apparatus Pat. 8,123,002 U.S. class187/393 Int. class B66B 1/34 Inventor: Rory S. Smith, El Cajon, CA., Stefan Kaczmarczyk, Northampton, GB., Jim Nickerson, Spring Valley, CA., Patrick M. Bass, Hernando, MS. Assignee: Thyssenkrupp Elevator Capital Corporation, Troy, MI. This patent presents a system and method for minimizing compensation rope sway by altering the natural frequency of compensation ropes using servo actuators. The rope sway may be minimized by moving the compensation sheave to adjust the tension of the compensation rope or adjusting the position of the termination of a compensation rope to account for changes in the position of a structure. Servo actuators may also be used to re-level the elevator car to account for rope stretch. Two major problems plague high rise elevators with long hoist ropes. These are rope sway and re-leveling due to rope elongation. Rope sway, particularly compensation rope sway, is a major problem in high rise buildings. High rise buildings are known to sway during windy conditions. The frequency of the building sway is also generally between 0.05 and 1 Hz. Because the natural frequency of the compensation ropes is very close to the natural frequency of the building, resonance often occurs. Compensation rope resonance can cause the ropes to strike the walls and elevator doors causing damage and frightening passengers. To avoid this resonance, the frequency of the ropes can be adjusted such that it is different from that of the structure itself. Referring to figure 22, an elevator system 10 comprises one or more servo actuators 12 attached to a compensation sheave 14. The servo actuator 12 is configured to move the sheave vertically within a predetermined range (u). A compensation rope 16 is wrapped around the compensation sheave 14 and is affixed at a first end to an elevator car 18 and at a second end to a counterweight 20. The compensation rope 16 will have a natural frequency that is a function of the length of the rope and the tension of the compensation rope 16. In high rise buildings, the natural frequency of the compensation rope 16 may match the buildings natural frequency, thereby leading to potentially damaging resonance. In the version of the elevator system 10 shown in figure 22, one or more servo actuators 12 are modulated in response to a control algorithm that actively damps the oscillation of the ropes by varying the tension in the compensation ropes. The term “tendon control� refers to actively adjusting the tension or active suppression of a tension member or compensation rope to alter the natural frequency of the tension member. The servo actuator 12 may be a servomotor, servomechanism, or any suitable automatic device that uses a feedback loop to adjust the performance of a mechanism in modulating tendon control. The actuators could be hydraulic piston and cylinders, ball screw actuators, or any actuator commonly used in the machine tool industry. In particular, the servo actuator 12 may be configured to control the mechanical position of the compensa-
capacitor, and a resistance. It will be appreciated that any suitable controller may be incorporated, where versions may use only one or two modes to provide the appropriate system control. This may be achieved, for example, by setting the gain of undesired control outputs to zero to create a PI, PD, P, or I controller. Referring to figure 24, one version of a method 100 is shown for re-leveling an elevator car 18 with a servo actuator 12. The steps of method 100 comprise: Step 102 includes an elevator car 18 traveling from an upper floor to the lowest floor of a building. Step 104 comprises applying a machine brake to hold the elevator car 18 at the lowest floor level. Step 106 comprises opening the door of the elevator and allowing passenger to enter and depart at the lowest landing. Step 108 comprises the elevator car 18 rising as the weight of the car 18 decreases due to depart-
Figure 22: Elevator system having an adjustable compensation rope sheave.
tion sheave 14 along a vertical axis by creating mechanical force to urge the compensation sheave 14 in a generally upward or downward direction. Mechanical forces may be achieved with an electric motor, hydraulics, pneumatics, and/or by using magnetic principles. Referring to figure 23, the rope sway may be modulated, for example, by a PID controller that monitors the natural frequencies of the compensation rope 16 and the building to prevent resonance. Modulating the natural frequency of the compensation rope 16 in the disclosed manner allows for the tension member to be actively damped. Figure 23 illustrates a schematic of one version of a proportional-integral-derivative controller or “PID controller� that may be used to actively damp a tension member. The PID controller may be implemented in software in programmable logic controllers (PLCs) or as a panel-mounted digital controller. Alternatively, the PID controller may be an electronic analog controller made from a solid-state or tube amplifier, a
Figure 23: One version of a PID controller that may be used in associated with the elevator system.
Figure 24: One version of a method for re-leveling an elevator system to minimize the effects of rope stretch.
ing passengers. Step 110 comprises using a leveling sensor to determine how far the elevator car 18 has drifted away from the level position. Step 112 comprises using a servo actuator to adjust the position of the compensation sheave 14 to account for the drift of the elevator car 18. Step 112 further comprises adjusting the position of the compensation sheave 14 such that the elevator car 18 remains substantially level through the loading and unloading process. It will be appreciated that re-leveling may be performed at any suitable time at any suitable floor. Use of the elevator system 10 in accordance with the method 100 allows for the elevator car 18 to be re-leveled without the addition of additional ropes. For example, in an installation with 22mm ropes, seven ropes are generally required for hoisting, but nine may be supplied to control rope stretch. The method 100 may eliminate the need for the additional two ropes needed to help control rope stretch. Additionally, the remaining ropes will be under higher tension and, thus, will have higher frequencies, which may be beneficial in avoiding resonance. WRN Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
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continued from page 58 preparing to unveil.” Chief Executive Officer, Mike Gelskey, Sr. stated, “I am extremely pleased with the planning and layout that Junior did to streamline our production, strengthening our business and marketing plans. California based manufacturers should be on the endangered species list and our investment speaks volumes of our commitment to our customers and loyal employees. It is sometimes attractive to consider buildings in other locations that can be purchased for the equivalent cost of re-roofing our facility, but it’s never been about the money, it’s always been about our people and our customers”. In addition to housing the manufacturing and corporate offices, the facility will also feature a 1500 sq. ft. Learning Center. Monthly training classes for: Competent Rigger, Certification Preparatory Training, Signal Person, Qualified Inspector and Train-the-Trainer Programs will begin in June 2012. The Lift-It Sling Safety Program will include programs developed by Rigging Institute, LLC. and will feature classroom and hands on learning experiences. Details are available at www.lift-it.com Lift-it® Manufacturing Company, Inc. has provided quality sling and rigging equipment internationally for over thirty-three years and training for sling users and inspectors for over thirty years.
Crosby Tubing Grab
McKissick’s® Patent Pending Tubing Grab is designed to provide a quick, easy and efficient attachment for the lifting of tubing to and from the rig floor in “well servicing” applications. Specifically, the McKissick® Tubing Grab engages the tubing adjacent to the flared end allowing the tubing to be moved from storage to the rig floor where the elevators can then be utilized to upright the tubing vertically. With a 500 lbs. Working Load Limit, the McKissick® Tubing Grab will work with 2 3/8” or 2 7/8” tubing. The McKissick® Tubing Grab is easy to engage or disengage from the tubing. Pulling of the trigger provides easy insertion or removal of the tubing and releasing the trigger “locks” the tubing grab in the closed position for maintaining load control. Individually proof tested to 125% Working Load Limit, 74
AISI Commends WTO Panel for Finding that China’s Raw Materials Export Restrictions Violate its WTO Obligations
Applauds USTR Ron Kirk for strongly advocating for U.S. manufacturers The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) commended a World Trade Organization (WTO) Appellate Body ruling for affirming an earlier dispute resolution panel’s conclusion that China’s restrictions on the exports of nine raw materials violate its international obligations. AISI welcomed the WTO decision and applauded the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) for its strong advocacy over several years of involvement in the dispute resolution proceeding. In response to challenges by the United States, the European Union, and Mexico, the WTO Appellate Body examined China’s use of export quotas, export taxes, and other measures to limit exports of coke, bauxite, fluorspar, zinc, silicon carbide, and other materials. The Appellate Body’s favorable ruling found that China’s imposition of these measures violated WTO rules, including various provisions of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and specific commitments China undertook when it joined the WTO. “We are very pleased that the Appellate Body has recognized that China’s restraints on exports fundamentally
contravene the obligations China assumed when it joined the WTO,” said AISI Chairman John Surma, Chairman and CEO of United States Steel. “This should send a strong message to all WTO members that restraints on exports are not permitted. We want to congratulate Ambassador Ron Kirk, the U.S. Trade Representative, and his team for their hard work and successful efforts.”
Workers’ compensation
continued from page 36 Whatever happens, we can expect workers’ compensation costs to become an even greater concern in the future.” Assistance for Workers’ Comp issues How do you report workplace injuries and file claims? How do you decide what doctors the injured workers may see? What are the requirements for notifying workers of their rights and responsibilities? What size employer is exempt from x-mod calculations? The answers will vary by state. You can obtain information about your own state’s laws from the Internet. Go to the website for the U.S. Department of Labor at www.dol.gov. Under “Browse by Topic” click on “Workers’ Compensation.” Then click on “State Workers’ Compensation Boards.” Finally, click on the link for your state. Additionally, the Insurance information Institute has posted helpful articles at www.iii.org. Click on “Workers’ Compensation” under Business Topics at the bottom of the page. WRN
the McKissick® Tubing Grab is fitted with a 3/8” G-2130 Crosby® Shackle for attachment to the air tugger line. A secondary lifting eye is provided for the attachment of a tag line. All sizes are RFID equipped. To find out more about the McKissick® Tubing Grab, contact The Crosby Group® at (800) 797-4611 or visit www.thecrosbygroup.com.
FERRETERRO is First® in The East
FIRST® Sling Technology is proud to announce the newest addition to the Full Inspection RoundSling Technology® Manufacturing Team and the first in the East. FERRETERRO INDIA PVT LTD belongs to the Jhalani family of Delhi, having been in the industry for over 100 years. With Corporate Offices in Noida, FERRETERRO will manufac-
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
Joe Nishide, FAR EAST INDUSTRIAL CO. (L) and Saurabh Khandewal, FERRETERRO (R) exhibit the FIRST®Inspectable Roundsling® at the CeMAT Trade Fair in Mumbai.
ture and distribute both FHPZ High Performance Roundslings and FP Polyester Roundslings from 6 locations and 45 dealers throughout India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bangladesh. Saurabh Khandewal, Director has coordinated The Inspectable Roundcontinued on page 76
continued from page 74 sling® project working with Joe Nishide, FIRST®’s agent for Asia and president of FEIC-FAR EAST INDUSTRIAL CO. of Japan. Saurabh said, “Till present all roundslings rely on outer cover without any rated capacity, of numerous qualities, specifications and material and with flimsy inspection systems which all have experienced do not work.” The FERRETERRO team has introduced the transparent FIRST® sling to India’s Power, Oil, Construction and Manufacturing sectors and is ready to “raise sling inspection and safety to a new level”.
New ferrules and fittings from Talurit AB
At Talurit AB we pride ourselves on constantly developing new ferrules and fittings. Combining more than 60 years of practical experience with the latest technology, our engineers can quickly provide the market with new innovations. One of our latest innovations is the T-LOC ferrule, reinforcing the standard aluminium T-ferrule termination. The steel reinforcement prevents the ferrule from splitting when using a high tensile wire rope of grade 2160 together with a heavy-duty thimble. The T-LOC ferrule offers safety when using the more and more common wire ropes of grade 2160. The system is tested with rotation resistant wire ropes in class 35(W) x 7 and has been validated according to
EN 13411-3. The tested constructions are 34(W) x K7-WSC, fill factor: 0,740,75. Investment in new die sets is not necessary. Use together with your standard die sets for T-ferrule swaging. Easy entry for safety. T-LOC is patent pending: Application no. PCT/SE2010/000142 and protected worldwide. We offer our license agreement to all our costumers.
Harrington Hoists, Inc. releases ED Infinity Single Phase Electric Chain Hoists
Harrington Hoists, Inc. has introduced their new dual speed, single phase, ED Infinity Electric Chain Hoists. These hoists are offered in 125, 220, 250, 350, 400, 525 and 1050 pound capacities. The pendant on the hoist is equipped with easy access external speed adjustment knobs that enable the operator to quickly customize the high and low hoist speeds. A heavy duty metal hinged cover protects these knobs from damage and prevents the speed settings from shifting during operation. According to a company release, the ED Infinity is designed with a lightweight die-cast aluminum body making it easy to install, transport and store. Additional features of the ED Infinity hoist include Weston-style and regenerative load brakes, a friction clutch for overwinding protection, nickel-plated, heat treated load chain and a standard upper limit switch. These hoists are ideal for work stations and work cells, assembly lines, pick-andplace operations, and fast production environments. Harrington Hoists, Inc. is a Kito Group Company located in Manheim, PA and Corona, CA. and is a leading manufacturer and supplier of electric and air powered chain hoists, electric wire rope hoists, lever hoists, manual hand chain hoists, push and geared trolleys, overhead cranes, crane accessories and a full line of replacement parts.
Lift-It® Manufacturing announces release of the new Rigging Resource Guide
Lift-It® Manufacturing Company, Inc. is pleased to announce the release of the newly published 2012 Rigging Resource Guide. The 500 page, full color publication is one of the most complete and descriptive of its kind and includes hundreds of pages devoted to general and safety information. Product infor76
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
mation for slings, rigging hardware, material handling equipment, hoists, plate clamps, blocks, load securement, cordage, RFID systems, fall prevention and training resources is included in the most complete and descriptive publication of its kind. Michael J. Gelskey, Sr., chief executive officer comments, “We have always had top notch product literature, but the new publication will become the benchmark for our industry. Pertinent information is not simply cut and
pasted from other catalogs, but is specifically developed and laid out to meet the exclusive presentation standards we established long ago.” Another notable feature of the LiftIt® Rigging Resource Guide is the product usage and warning information that is placed in front of each product section, rather than being “buried” in the rear of most catalogs. Mr. Gelskey states, “In some instances we feature three pages of usage and warning information as a foundation for a sin-
Bilco appoints Mike Cuccinello as president
Doug will represent Everett Industries’ abrasive cutoff saws and wheels. Douglas comes to Everett Industries with many years of sales and service experience in machines, tooling and related metal fabrication products. Everett Industries is operated by Bill Everett, president and Roy Williams, vice president. The company was founded in 1962 by Chuck Everett, Bill’s father, and today employs fifteen people. Everett Industries produces abrasive cutoff machines and wheels sold worldwide to any industry that needs to cut metal.
Barry I. Lemberg, CEO, of “The Bilco Group of Companies” proudly annouces the promotin of Michael A. Cuccinello, senior v.p., to president of Bilco Wire Rope & Supply Corp., Doran Sling & Assemply Corp., and The Shaw Belting Company. Mike, a 30 year veteran, began his career as an inside salesman, progressed to outside sales, and most re-
gle, product page. An informed product user is best served through publications like ours that are not strictly devoted to the almighty sales dollar.” The all color, concise layout provides tremendous amounts of information in an aesthetically pleasing format that will certainly be a valuable resource for those involved in the sling, rigging and material handling industries. The Resource Guide is ©Lift-It® 2012 and is available for $25.95. Contact info@lift-it.com to receive a copy.
Presidential change at Crosby
The Tulsa, Oklahoma, based Crosby Group, a global leader in accessories for lifting and material handling applications, has announced that Larry Postelwait is retiring after more than 40 years with the company. He has led the organization for the past 25 years as its President and CEO, and in that time has established the company as the standard for innovation, quality,
Michael A. Cuccinello
cently directed our operations, marketing and sales division. He has just been elected to a 3 year position on the board of directors for The Association of Wire Rope Fabricators. Mike and his wife Betsy have two grown children and are season ticket holders of the NY Giants! We all wish Mike much success in his new position.
Everett Industries, Inc. hires new sales representative for Pacific Northwest region
Everett Industries, Inc., of 3601 Larchmont Avenue, is proud to announce and welcome Douglas Clay as the company’s new sales representative for the Pacific Northwest region.
Crosby President, Larry Postelwait retiring after 25 years
Jason Struthers
and performance across the many industries that it serves. Jason Struthers has been named as his replacement effective immediately, but Mr. Postelwait will be staying on board for a period to ensure a smooth transition. Mr. Struthers brings almost 20 years of global industrial manufacturing experience to The Crosby Group. His background includes sales, marketing and operational leadership roles at Parker Hannifin, IDEX Corporation, and most recently KOHLER Co., where he was the President of Kohler Power Systems. Mr. Struthers earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign as well as a Master of Business Administration degree from Ashland University. He currently resides in Manitowoc, WI, but will be relocating his family to Tulsa, OK. “Jason has spent his entire career working within diversified industrial companies that highly value their distribution networks,” said Mr. Postelcontinued on next page
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(E&E). DSM’s named Vision continued from strategy, previous page 2010 Building on Strengths, wait, outgoing President andfocuses CEO. on accelerating profitableinand innova“His hands-on experience developing tive growthrelationships of the company’s long-term withspecialties distribuportfolio. tors, which Market-driven is one of Crosby growth, Group’s innovation and increased in most important attributes presence and foundemerging economies are key of ing principles, will serve the drivers company this for strategy. group has annual well years toThe come.” sales of over EUR 8facilities billion and With multiple inemploys North some 22,000 people worldwide. DSM America and abroad, the Crosby Group ranks among the global leaders in manufactures premium accessories manyinoflifting its fields. The company is used and material handling headquartered therange Netherlands, applications for ainwide of induswith locations in Europe, tries ranging from oil andAsia, gas Africa exploand theto Americas. ration construction. The company, About W.L. & Associates, Inc. known for itsGore uncompromising quality, W. L. customer Gore & Associates, a premier service, and Inc., ‘worldtechnology solutions provider with class’ training programs, offers a broad nearly $2products billion insuitable sales and than range of formore the most 7 , 0 0 0 a s s o cofi a toperating e s , s p e c iconditions. alizes in demanding fProducts l u o r o p oinclude l y m e r wire i n nrope o v a tclips, i o n shooks, that improve the quality of life. Over its 47shackles, lifting clamps, hoist rings, year history, hasblocks, applied its overhaul balls,Gore snatch crane w o r l d and - r e nsheaves. owned expertise with blocks membranes, fibers and laminates to thousands of products performanceHarrington Hoists,inInc.
announces the winner of their Outstanding Distributor of the Year award
Harrington Hoists, Inc. is excited to announce Certified Slings & Supply of
Harrington’s VP Sales & Marketing, Carlo Lonardi 54 78
Casselberry, FL as the winner of their 2011 Outstanding Distributor of the Year award. Harrington’s Outstanding Distributor of the Year is selected on various criteria. Winners must be a top performing company with positive growth and be a dedicated partner. Harrington Sales Representatives begin the process by nominating one distributor in their territory by submitting a summary on all aspects of their nominee’s growth and activities related to Harrington Hoists, Inc. Harrington management then evaluates the nominations and reviews the sales numbers against the previous year to select the winner of the fiscal year Outstanding Distributor of the Year Award. Trey Rishe Certified Slings & Supply is active With quality and safety as our guide, in joint marketing and promotions, are loyal to selling Harrington products to it is the mission of Southern Wire to deliver foreign andsteel domestic their keybridge customers arebytruly dediWooden at Riverand Camp St. Joe in Panama City, superior Florida using stainless cable. wire rope, chain, and other related rigcated partners. products and fabricated assemThis year’s award presentation din- ging driven markets, such as automotive, Bridges of Tallahassee, Florida are the ®By purblies with exceptional service. ner was held November 17, 2011 in energy, electronics and industrial recipients of the Ultra-tec Cable large volumes qualified Winter FL. Representatives filtration.Park, The company operates in chasing Railing in Design Award, from according to vendors, stocking at strategically of Harrington Hoists, Inc. were Ned more than 45 facilities worldwide with Raymond Kechely, vice president loof nationwide distribution centers, Hunter, President & CEO, Delaware, Carlo Lo- cated headquarters in Newark, The Cable Connection the manufacnardi, Marketing andvisit Ted and USA. VP ForSales more& information, t ureutilizing r o f U l tproprietary r a -t e c ® ca bstate l e raofi l ithe ng art technologies, we are able to provide Rust, Sales Representative. Those in www.gore.com/omnibend. products. shipping of stock items at attendance Certified Slings and same The day award was given for the design Dyneema®from is a registered trademark outstanding value. The Southern Wire Supply included Dennis E. Worswick, and fabrication of a wooden bridge at of Royal DSM N.V. strives strong relationPresident River Camp byto St.build Joe in Panama City, A l l o t hand e r his t r awife d e mBarbie, a r k s aDouglas r e t h e family with customers, employees, J. Worswick, CEO and his owners. wife Kathy, ships Florida. Theour bridge was built in 2005 property of their respective and community by exceeding Nicole R. Parkerson, VP and her hus- vendors, using stainless steel cable as the and providing long term band EricRailing Parkerson,Design Operations Man- expectations Cable railing in-fill. competitive ager and Eric Worswick, VP. Award announced Accordingadvantages. to Kechely, the award is Houston Wire & Cable Company is Goddard Specialty Construction of given for the design of the railing in one of the largest providers of wire and Southern Wire welcomes Rishe Peachtree City, Florida and Nature relation to its setting and for the cable in the U.S. user market. Headto sales department appearance andend quality of fabrication in Houston, Texas, HWC has Southern Wire, a division of the quartered of the railing. The Cable Connection and the distribution facilities strategiHouston Wire and Cable Co, is excited sales supplied tensioners and mounting located throughout the nation. to announce new inside sales depart- cally devices for the cable. Nature Bridges ment growth with the addition of Trey built the bridge. Goddard Specialty Rishe. Rishe is a 2008 graduate of the Alps Wire Rope VPthe Bob Zader Construction installed cables. University of Mississippi in Oxford retires “Thin, yet strong stainless steel cable with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in was Bob president of Alps theZader, perfectvice choice for this project,” Criminal Justice and a minor in Rec- Wire Rope Corporation retires after 9 explained Brian Fischer of Goddard reational Management. Previously a years. Bob has greatly contibuted to Specialty Construction. “You hardly member of the Houston Wire and Ca- the to where Alps see company’s the cable, growth so the view is unimble Co. National Call Center team in is today.Brian's Alps Corporation is currently paired.” partner, Don Goddard, Houston Texas, Rishe brings with him one of the top importers of wire added, “The Cable Connection hadrope all two years of in depth customer service from Asia and Europe. the right stainless steel tensioners and and sales experience. Rishe is excited fittings Bob’s career started us at Bell Labs and that enabled to install the about moving back to friends, joining moved forward into AT&T for over 30 cable quickly and at a very reasonable the Southern Wire Family, and devel- years. Heare hasproud worked withproject Alps Wire cost. We of this and oping his career. Rope Corporation for over 9 years. thrilled to receive the design award.Bob About the Company started at Alps as accounting manager For 40 years, Southern Wire, a divi- and became vice president in 2011. Vietnam sion of Houston Wire and Cable Com- NEMA “Bob hascalls had afor major key role in admission into the WTOand pany, has earned a reputation for building Alps both financially as soon as possible understanding the unique buying re- physically. I thank him for his outNEMA,work,” the National Electrical quirements of their customers and de- standing says Brad Benner, Manufacturers Association, hailed livering exceptional customer service president of Alps Wire Rope,has “Bob Zathe will recent conclusion of negotiations and support. der truly be missed.”
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology
August 2006
Advertisers Index Please turn to the pages indicated below for a detailed view of advertisers’ products or services. Accutech ........................................................69
Morse-Starrett Products Co. . ..........................48
All Material Handling .................................67, 69
New England Ropes ........................................66
Allied Power Products .....................................36
C.S. Osborne & Co. . .......................................63
Associated Wire Rope & Rigging, Inc. .........51, 52
Premier Wire Rope ............................................4
Buffalo Lifting and Testing ...............................64
Reel-O-Matic ..................................................27
Cableway Technical Services ..........................81
Rope Block/Sea Link .......................................13
Caldwell Company, Inc. .......................20, 28, 84
Rud Chain, Inc. ...............................................44
Chant Engineering Co., Inc. .............................33
Sea Catch .......................................................78
Chicago Hardware ..........................................12
Sea-Fit, Inc. ................................................6, 37
Codipro ..........................................................50
Sea-Land Distributors .........................25, 31, 35
The Crosby Group . ...............................2, 18, 53
Slingmax Rigging Products ...............................3
Distributor Computer Systems . .......................65
Slinguard Protectors . ......................................55
Downs Crane & Hoist Co., Inc. ........................65
Southern Weaving Company ...........................17
Elite Sales .......................................................19
Southern Wire .................................................39
Engineered Lifting Tech ...................................68
Strider~Resource . ...........................................5
Esco Corporation ............................................24
Suncor Stainless, Inc. ............................... 42-43
Esmet .............................................................26
Taylor Chain Company ....................................76
Gaylin International Co. Pte. Ltd. . ....................83
Terrier Lifting Clamps ......................................41
Holland 1916 ..................................................49
Van Beest BV ..................................................21
Ken Forging, Inc. ............................................ 46
Vanguard Steel, Ltd. ........................................23
Kulkoni, Inc. . ..................................................47
Wichard, Inc. ..................................................61
KWS, Inc. .......................................................63
Windy Ridge Corporation ................................67
Letellier M.H.E. ...............................................75
Wirop Industrial Co., Ltd. . ...............................29
Lift-It Manufacturing Co., Inc. ..........................45
WSTDA . .........................................................58
Lincoln Hoist . ...................................................9
Yale Cordage . .................................................30
Loos & Co., Inc. . ............................................15
Yoke Industrial Corp. .......................................11
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
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HELP WANTED Fast growing Billings Montana industrial supply and rigging shop seeks experienced rigger and wire rope assembler. Must be familiar with all aspects of rigging shop operations. Email resume to bjones@gotbolts.com. Looking for an outside sales person for wire rope shop and fall protection company. Email resume to azwire@aol.com or email marty@ultrasafeusa.com. Seeking to fill and inside customer service/ sales position with at least 3 years in wire rope and rigging hardware sales experience, aggressive and good communication skill, hard working with integrity. Our company is located in Southern California and has been in business for 15 years. We offer a competitive salary plus commission. Please fax resume to (909) 548-2884. Established wire rope distributor in the Mid-Atlantic area is looking for an exp. outside sales representative to cover the Gulf Coast area. Strong background in cranes and wire ropes preferred. Ideal candidate has the ability to establish accounts and build strong business relationships. Excellent base and commission, comp. vehicle and benefits. Submit qualifications to: hoistemployment@gmail.com. Assistant foreman for East Coast’s largest importer & sling shop. We stock wire rope, hardware and mfg web slings. Must be “hands-on” and capable of directing shop personnel. Long term position with all benefits company paid, including profit sharing. The Bilco Group, Bilco-Doran-Shaw, Barry I. Lemberg C.E.O, Phone:(908) 351-7800 Fax: (908) 355-5544, E-mail: blemberg@bilcogroup.com. We are looking for Sales Rep and Area Sales Manager for US market. YOKE USA, a highly respected brand in Grade 80 chain accessories, aggressively expanding its distribution and requires sales personnel. Experience in chain and wire rope sling industries is an asset. Send resume to Steven Hong, President of YOKE GROUP, 12850 Florence Ave., Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670. Fax 562903-1468 eMail: adrianaa@yoke-usa.com. POSITION AVAILABLE Outside Sales Representative: If you are an outgoing, positive and motivated individual, then come to work in an exciting industry for a great company. Alp Industries, Inc. is one of the largest distributors of wire rope, chain, and nylon sling products in the U.S. We are a nationwide company with 15 sales offices located in the Eastern and Western United States specializing in lifting products to help build America. Currently we have an opening for an outside sales representative with our Wayland Industries branch in Long Island City, NY . Our Outside Sales Representative is re-
sponsible for the growth of selected existing accounts and the establishment of new accounts in the New York City Metro Market and surrounding areas. Requirements: Applicants should have sales experience in the rigging industry. A familiarity with computer software applications such as MS Word and Excel. This person must be a highly motivated self-starter with a strong work ethic and high level of integrity. Knowledge of the NYC metro market a must. A college degree and experience in the wire rope, chain and rigging industries are definite advantages. The compensation package includes salary & commission, medical & life insurance, 401(k) and an automobile plan. Please send resume to manager392@alpind.com. Southern Wire, a leading wholesaler/distributor of wire rope, slings, chain, and fittings is expanding sales force in other parts of the US. We are seeking Outside Sales Territory Managers for the Northwestern and Northeastern areas of the US. We offer a competitive base salary and commission program. Our excellent benefits package includes medical, dental, life, disability, paid vacation, vehicle allowance, and 401K. Please visit company website: www. houwire.com. College degree preferred - Industry knowledge necessary. Send resume in confidence to: suzanna@southernwire.com or Fax# 662893-4732 *No calls please*. Company: Nelson Wire Rope Corporation Description: Established in 1979 in Hatfield, Pa, Nelson Wire Rope Corporation is a leader in wire rope fabrication and product distribution. We offer a wide array of products for the lifting, towing, construction, traffic control and other industries. Location: Hatfield, PA Employee Type: Fulltime Industry: Manufacturing, Wire Rope and Sling Industry Job Title: Outside-Inside Sales Required Education: Industry experience, degree preferred Required Travel: Frequent Day Trips Other: Local Candidates Only Interested candidates should Email resume to: nwrjobs@gmail.com. Job Duties and Responsibilities: • Aggressively identifies and contacts prospective customers by phone and on-site visits. Ability to conduct sales presentations of company products or services while on site. Plans effective strategies to capture new business. Proven ability to generate new sales. • Provide inside customer service and sales. Skills and Qualifications: • Excellent customer service skills; strong written and verbal communication skills, outgoing personality, team player. • Effective time management, organization and multi-tasking skills. • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook. Education and Experience: • Minimum of three (3) years experience in an Outside sales role, and five (5) years experience in Inside Sales/Customer Service experience. • Knowledge of wire rope, crane cable, rigging, construction or related industry. Sales and Marketing Manager. Leading manufacturer of stainless steel wire and specialty cable products has an opening for a Sales & Marketing Manager. This role coordinates all sales and market-
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Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
ing activities across multiple product lines, providing accurate, fact-based information for active and potential markets, and implementing sales and marketing strategies to meet corporate objectives. Requirements: BS Marketing or related Business degree; 5+ years experience in a marketing and sales environment developing corporate image or brand identity (preferably B to B); 5+ years managing sales and marketing personnel; experience working with ERP software and CRM platforms; energetic, quick thinker, solid understanding of sales and marketing fundamentals; experience in aerospace and medical markets a plus. Please reply to: Box 11-05, c/o Wire Rope News & Sling Technology, P.O. Box 871, Clark, NJ 07066. Certified Slings & Supply, Florida’s largest family owned rigging, contractor and industrial supply company is seeking experienced sales representatives for our Florida territories. The suitable candidate will be aggressive and detail-oriented with experience in selling overhead lifting, load securement and fall protection equipment along with other contractor supplies and have a proven successful sales history. Our 53-year family-owned company provides excellent benefits to our team members including medical insurance, holiday and vacation pay and 401(k) with company match. If you share our core values and the experience we are looking for we look forward to hearing from you. Email your resume and salary requirements to Attention Team Member Relations at csi@certifiedslings.com or fax to 407-260-9196. Our Purpose: To grow through challenge and opportunity ‘with passion’ while benefiting team members, customers and vendors. Our Core Values: Service, Quality, Team, Commitment, Communication, Integrity, Respect. Our Mission: We will be the most trusted and respected company in rigging, overhead lifting, load securement and contractor supplies in the world. Please visit our website at www.certifiedslings.com. EOE/ AA/MFDV. Drug Free Workplace – Drug testing required. Florida Locations include: Orlando, Miami, West Palm Beach, Fort Myers, Tampa and Ocala Experienced Regional Sales Manager wanted for KWS Inc., member of the THIELE GmbH & Co. KG.-group. KWS Inc. is expanding in the USA and Canada markets. Candidate must have a strong understanding of overhead lifting equipment, chains, slings, hooks and accessories. A strong sales experience is a must. Candidate must also have basic computer skills that include Microsoft word, excel and PowerPoint. KWS Inc. offers a competitive salary, profit sharing and many other benefits. Please email resume to THIELE Germany, Mr. Enrique Bermejo, Sales Director Lifting Department, Germany; Email: e.bermejo@thiele.de. Leading manufacturer of below the hook lifting devices seeks a mechanical engineer who has experience with designing below the hook lifters. Experience with motorized control systems is a plus. Excellent working environment, compensation and schedule all in a fantastic, southern coastal area! Please send resume to Tandemloc, 824 Highway 101, Havelock, NC 28532, sandy@tandemloc. com or call 252-463-8113. Sales manager needed for Chicago marcontinued
ket. Must have strong understanding of wire rope, chain, hardware. Must be able to establish goals and achieve desired results. Computer literate, minimal travel. Salesforce knowledge a plus. Competitive salary and benefits. Reply to box 11-4, care of Wire Rope News, 511 Colonia Blvd., Colonia, NJ 07067. Fabrication manager/customer service. Work in a family oriented business with an opportunity to earn part ownership. Need someone 35-55+ years old who started at the bottom and looking to finish at the top. Need hands on splicing experience, lifting rigging experience, test bed knowledge, able to direct small growing crew. Basic computer knowledge. Willing to train and mentor young employees. Top wages and benefits for the right individual. Problem solver that our customers can depend on. Honesty and integrity a must. Call Chuck Farmer, President, Rouster Wire Rope and Rigging, Inc., 304-228-3722, in confidence. Outside Sales Representative needed for well established family owned business in Nashville, TN. Contractors & Industrial Supply Co., Inc. founded in 1970 is a distributor of wire rope, rigging hardware, chain and related industry products is expanding our sales team. The qualified individual will possess industry knowledge and the ability to develop new accounts and maintain existing. We offer a competitive base salary plus commission and an outstanding benefits package. If qualified, please email your resume with salary history to kreff@cisrigging.com. Established wire rope distributor in North America is expanding into crane/container rope and fabrication. We are looking for an experienced individual that can assist in
formulating a marketing and business plan. This position will eventually evolve to a sales manager or general manager. Fax your resume in strict confidence to 330-452-2331 attention Kris Lee or email to klee@afdindustries.com. Texas Wire Rope Company expanding inside sales department. Individuals must have a strong technical, mechanical and basic mathematical aptitude, including basic computer knowledge. Selected candidates must be quality conscious and able to handle multiple tasks. Previous experience in the industrial supply market is necessary. We offer a drug-free, results-oriented work environment with excellent wages and advancement opportunities. Resumes received confidentially at wremployment@gmail.com. POSITION WANTED West Coast Wire Rope and Rigging is looking to hire experienced riggers. Please send your resume to: 7777 7th Ave. South, Seattle, WA 98108, attention manager. Experienced Wire Rope Sling (Flemish) fabricator needed. CWR Hawaii is seeking a worker with knowledge and hands-on ability to fabricate wire rope and chain assemblies. Full-time, 401k, vacation, insurance, and other benefits. Relocationg cost can be negotiated. If you are interested in working for our company, please email me at allen@cwrhawaii.com or call me at 808-843-2020. Former Division-Product Manager, Regional Outside Sales Manager desires southeast territory to manage and solicit accounts in the wire rope, chain, fittings, and related industries. Over 25 years experience including District Manager, Bethlehem Wire Rope,
CABLEWAY TECHNICAL SERVICES GRAVITY RETURN Call Nielsen
Ocala, FL 24 Hour Fax (904) 342-0547 Regional Manager, Wire Rope Ind Product Manager, Rud Chain, Inc. Interested parties reply to M.E. (Mike) Givens mike90309@aol. com, ph 256-476-7700. REPS WANTED Sunwood Inc., manufacturer of nets, slings, etc. since 1986, (formerly known as Fl. nets & slings supply) is expanding nationwide & looking for ambitious independent reps in US and Canada. Check our webiste: www. netsandslings.com before contacting us. We offer several protected territories without any restriction of house accounts. Generous commission paid when order is shipped (not when $ collected). Call 954-788-7144 or email: sunwoodfl@aol.com. Sales rep wanted for an established manufacturer of labels and sling tags. We are looking for a sales rep that currently calls on sling makers and rigging companies and is familiar with the business. Etiflex is a registered trademark and manufactures custom sling tags for synthetic and wire rope slings and has an excellent reputation in the field. We advertise in trade journals and exhibit at industry shows to generate brand awareness. Please contact us at info@etiflex.com or call 866-ETIFLEX for information. continued
Fax: (1-732) 396-4215 Only $1 per line. Ads answered through private box numbers, $3 extra. Place stamp on envelope, cut along perforation, fold, tape where indicated and drop in the nearest mail box. If you prefer, send no money now, we’ll bill you later. (Please type or print clearly)
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Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
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continued from previous page Manufacturer Represtentatives for Lifting Equipment & Accessories wanted by ALL MATERIAL HANDLING, Inc. Territories are now available and supported by our 4 USA Warehouses where our highly competitive and top quality products are stocked to the roof. Partner with us as we continue to grow market share. Check us out at www.allmaterialhandling.com and reach us at 877 543-8264, or email peter@allmaterialhandling.com. Well established manufacturer of wire rope assemblies seeks manufacturer representatives for most major U.S. and Canadian markets. Visit our web site at www.thecableconnection.com. Please contact ray@thecableconnection.com or call Ray at (800) 851-2961 PRODUCT LINES WANTED Merit Sales, Inc. (Manufacturer Representatives) is looking for rigging related lines to compliment the manufacturers we currently represent. If you need sales people in any of our states (AL, AR, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA) please contact. We also have 2 regional warehouses available in the Atlanta area & Houston. e-mail: johng@meritsalesinc. com or call Johnny at 713-664-7723. EQUIPMENT WANTED Wanted: Used test stand for manual hoists static testing, up to 10-tons. Contact John Gideon at jwg@meritsalesinc.com or Phone 770-266-5700. Wanted 600t wire rope swaging press complete with dies in good order, please contact Tony@cman.co.nz, or Tele 0064 3 366 1528. Wanted: used wire rope cable, sizes 1-1/8”, 1”, and 7/8”. Please call for pricing. (740) 452-5770.
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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Dragline range & depth extended using gravity return. Contact Nielsen by fax for details (fax) 904-342-0547 FOR SALE “Nets & slings” equipment (used) are offered at bargain prices (best offer will take it): Singer- 6 Sewing machines H.D. w/ benches. Kiwi- Web printing machine, complete set-up. Tinius Olsen- Testing machine 60K. Call us at 954-788-7144 or e-mail: sunwoodfl@aol.com. 3/16" Campbell Chain L3x51 Links- Zinc; 3200 pieces 48" with 5/16" S Hook; 1100 pieces 15" with 5/16"x2.5" O ring; In NC. Best Offer abarker@rmcord.com, 800-342-9130 x 124, Andy. New wire rope with galvanized finish, 8 x19, Seale, fiber core, traction grade (1180/1770 N/mm²), right regular lay: 1/2” diameter, 14,900 lbs breaking load, .36 lbs/foot net weight, 25,000 feet; 5/8” diameter, 23,700 lbs breaking load, .58 lbs/foot, 16,489 feet. Contact Draka Elevator Products at 1-877372-5237 for pricing. New wire rope 1-1/8” drill line 5000 ft. 6x195 BR RR IFWV $30,000 Aud & freight. Reply to Brayd Gross, Alpha Rigging SErvice, 11-13 Gerberte Court, Wurruk, Victoria, Australia, 3850. Phone 0011+61351461088. Email: bgalpha@bigpond.net.au. Crosby 7/8” G213 LPA shackles. NEW! 205 pieces available. Contact Gary Lee @ 1-800844-3517. Fax 251-456-8860.
Wire Rope News & Sling Technology April 2012
Impacto Cable cutters and parts available from Windy Ridge Corp. Tamworth, NH, USA. 800-639-2021. Fax 603-323-2322. WIRE ROPE FOR SALE New Wireco: 6 X 26 construction, 7/8” X 5,700’ - 1” X 1,000’ ¾” X 3,500 – 5/8” X 3,000’ – 1-3/8” X 1,350’ – 1-3/8” X 1,500” – 7/16” X 5,000’ – 1” X 300. All New. Also available: new assorted Esco shaclkes. Call Tom at 541-378-7006 for pricing and details. HARDWARE FOR SALE Overstocked inventory for sale, 1-3/8” Shackle, WLL 13½ ton, galvanized, round pin, import. Super savings. Sold in minimum lots of 50 at $9 each. Eric Parkerson, Certified Slings, 407-331-6677. EQUIPMENT FOR SALE National swage 1000 ton press. Excellent condition, including most dies up to two inch, $110,000. Barry, Bilco Wire Rope & Supply Corp., 908-351-7800 or blemberg@bilcogroup.com. 1-800 ton Esco, 1-500 ton National, 1-500 ton Esco, 1-350 Esco. 713-641-1552. 150 ton, Wirop C-type hydraulic swaging machine for sale. Brand new, with 4 sets of dies. $19,500 or B/O. Call Oscar at 909-548-2884. Wire Rope Grips for proof test machines. Sizes: 1-1/2”, 2”, 2-1/2”. Load cells & digital read-outs also available. Call Joe Roberts (912) 964-9465. Prooftesters for sale. Capacities from 20,000 lbs. to 3,000,000 lbs. Call Joe Roberts (912) 964-9465.
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