January/February 2015 Volume 28 Issue 1
NATM Launches Convention App Page 54
What’s Behind 2014’s Record Breaking Recalls? Page 20 NATM Technical Forum 2015 Page 30
8 Best Practices for Weld Fume Management Page 24
NATM Headquarters • 2420 SW 17th St. • Topeka, KS 66604• (785) 272-4433 • Fax: (785) 272-4455 STAFF Communications Director Meghan Ryan Meghan.Ryan@natm.com
On the Cover: The NATM mobile app for the 27th NATM Annual Convention & Trade Show will make information more accessible to attendees. The app will be available in app stores mid-January.
Executive Director Pam Trusdale Pam.Trusdale@natm.com Assistant Director Kendra Fritz Kendra.Fritz@natm.com Technical Director Russ Moore Russ.Moore@natm.com
Reports & Updates: 4 6 14 60 64
President’s Report Headquarters Report Government Affairs Update NATM Member News NATM New Member Update
Events Director Allison Malmstrom Allison.Malmstrom@natm.com Compliance Director Greg Soden Greg.Soden@natm.com Marketing Coordinator Kathleen Dultmeier Kathleen.Dultmeier@natm.com Bookkeeper Cindy Streeter Cindy.Streeter@natm.com Trade Show Director Monica Johnson Monica.Johnson@natm.com Technical Assistant Linda Brink Linda.Brink@natm.com Executive Assistant Christina Trimmer Christina.Trimmer@natm.com OFFICERS President Mike Lloyd Aluma, Ltd.
Tracks
17
Plasma and Oxyfuel: A Productive Combination
20 24
Treasurer Patrick Jennissen Felling Trailers
DIRECTORS FEB. 2012- FEB. 2015 Les Eaves Delta Manufacturing Marcus Hester Optronics International Tony Priesgen Triton Aluminum Trailers
2 8 10
34
Vice President Greg Snyder CAR MATE Trailers, Inc.
Past President Gary Potter EZ Loader Custom Boat Trailers
Articles & Forms:
30 34
50 NATM Launches Convention App
Rick Russell Carry-On Trailer, Inc.
44 46 50 51
DIRECTORS FEB. 2013 - FEB. 2016 Lynn Beal Big Tex Trailer Manufacturing Rick Coffey Carlisle Transportation Products Chris Steinman MGS, Incorporated DIRECTORS FEB. 2014 - FEB. 2017 Bob de Kruyff U-Haul International Doug Deaver M. H. Eby, Inc.
54
54 Taking Ownership of Your Workers' Comp Program
56
Tracks Advertisers Statistically Speaking Regular Member Spotlight: Bulldog Folding Trailers Rep. Walorski Tours LOOK Trailers Facility What’s Behind 2014’s RecordBreaking Number of Recalls? 8 Best Practices for Weld Fume Management NATM Technical Forum 2015 Plasma and Oxyfuel: A Productive Combination 2015 Convention & Trade Show 2015 Convention Agenda NATM Launches Convention App 2015 Convention & Trade Show Sponsors Taking Ownership of Your Workers’ Comp Program Prospecting Isn’t an Event; It’s a Campaign
Adam Dexter Dexter Axle Owen E. Shelton BoatMate Trailers, Inc. Ron Yarnell PPG Industries, Inc.
About this publication: Tracks Volume 28, Number 1 January/February 2015 is published six times a year (bi-monthly) for $50 per year by the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers, 2420 SW 17th St, Topeka, KS 66604. Periodicals postage paid at Topeka, KS. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers, 2420 SW 17th St, Topeka, KS 66604. The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers assumes no responsibility for statements, representations, or claims made or expressed in this publication, including those made in advertising appearing herein, nor does it accept responsibility for any errors or omissions made in publishing or reproducing articles or advertising appearing in Tracks or for the return of unsolicited manuscripts sent to NATM.
USPS Number: 022438
ISSN Number: 1552-2415
Advertisers Index
Tracks
Advertisers Index A.L. Hansen Manufacturing 32 AL-KO Axis, Inc. 42 Austin Hardware 15 BluDot 16 Blue Ox Outside Back Cover Cequent Performance Products, Inc. 58 CPR Systems 52 Dec-O-Art 2, 57 Dexter Axle 33 EnviroServe Chemicals, Inc. 8 H.E. Parmer Company 27 Hentzen Coatings, Inc. 49 Heskins, LLC Inside Front Cover Iowa Spring 19 KampCo Steel Products, Inc. 21 LaVanture Products Company Inside Back Cover Lippert Components 13 Muro 55 Napoleon/Lynx 29 NCP Coatings 43 NTP Distribution (LINK) 22 Optronics, Inc. 35 Peterson Manufacturing Co. 28 Powerbrace Corp. 63 PPG Industries, Inc. 18 Premium Supply 12 Redneck Trailer Supplies 3 Rockwell American 9 Rumber Materials 57 Sawblade.com 7 Scorpion Protective Coatings 23 2
January/February 2015
Taskmaster Components Textrail TheFabricator.com Tie Down Engineering TRAILSTAR Universal Forest Products
48 36 59 41 53 40
www.NATM.com
R E D U C E C U S T O M E R D O W N T I M E,
INCREASE YOUR PROFIT Save time and money with upgrading to Dexter Self Adjust Brakes and the Dexter Removable Spindle for Torflex Axles. Set your trailer apart with these axle options:
Self Adjust Brakes Highlights
- Work like new everytime for the life of the lining by automatically maintaining proper adjustment - Save time and money by eliminating required periodic adjustments and reducing wear on trailer brakes and tow vehicle brakes. - Reduce stopping distance by maintaining proper adjustment
Removable Spindle Highlights
- Future repair costs are reduced by replacing a damaged spindle and not the entire axle beam - No special tools required to remove the stainless steel bolt - “D� washer and detent groove design ensures proper mounting with no measuring - All replacement spindles are EZ-LUBE with a brake flange
- Easily retrofit to most existing axles with or without self-adjust brakes
Call us at 1-877-9REDNECK or visit us at redneck-trailer.com.
President’s Report
Tracks
President’s Report by Mike Lloyd, Aluma Ltd. With my term coming to an end in February at the upcoming
in bringing the Association up to modern standards with
Convention & Trade Show in New Orleans, I would like to
online membership renewals, a convention mobile app,
use my last President’s Report to reflect on my time spent
and multiple safety videos on NATM’s YouTube channel.
on the NATM Executive Board and as president and attempt to thank the many people that made this experience great. The mission of NATM is to unify, advance and improve the light-and mediumduty trailer manufacturing industry, and I NATM President Mike Lloyd at the NATDA Trade Show
am proud to say that the current
performance of our Association is meeting those goals. During the last two years as president, we have had very successful conventions in Charleston, SC, Las Vegas, Nev. and have a sold-out trade show planned for February in New Orleans. The NATM Convention & Trade Show is our largest event of the year and helps to unify the industry by gathering members from across the country together to network, find new vendors, and advance knowledge in the workshops. NATM instituted the Dealers Committed to Compliance Program in 2010, but it was this year we saw the program more than double in size to include more than 180 trailer dealers nationwide. NATM and I view this program as an integral link in not only creating safer highways, but also reaching end users with our compliance message and I believe that the expansion of this program in years to come will be highly beneficial to consumers, dealers and trailer manufacturers. This year, the NATM Staff also made strides
4
January/February 2015
As part of our mission to proactively address regulatory issues, the Association should be proud of its work this year on the tire tariff issue and its continuing efforts in D.C. This year, we continued to break attendance records at the annual Regulatory Roundup and Capitol Hill visits with 14 board members, six additional NATM members and four NATM staff members. The NATM advocates were able to participate in 62 meetings with members of the U.S. House and Senate or their staffers. NATM’s goal in Washington is to educate members of Congress, Congressional staff members and regulatory agencies as to the unique challenges facing the industry, and it has been a privilege to represent the Association as president during these events. I found the board and committee meetings interesting and engaging, and I look forward to continuing as past president and serving on the Executive, Finance and Trailer Dealers committees. Working with such an impressive group of leaders has been a very rewarding experience. Volunteering on these committees was not only about what I could contribute, but was also a learning experience for me in association management, strategic planning and regulatory issues. As someone that is not keen to be in the spotlight, I had reservations about taking such a leadership position that would include speaking in front of convention attendees and writing to the Association in Tracks. But because I believed in what NATM is trying to achieve, I became involved on various committees and eventually joined the Board of Directors. I spent enough time volunteering on the board to become familiar with the Association, its mission and its members that once it was my time to serve
www.NATM.com
President’s Report
Tracks
as president, I realized the position of president of NATM was
information, workshops and publications that can benefit you.
not intimidating, but instead rewarding.
I encourage all of you to be active in this Association and to
I want to share my story because I would like to encourage those that have reservations about getting involved to go ahead and join this great group of volunteers and serve on a committee or on the NATM Board. I spent my first and second year observing
provide additional input to keep this Association strong and of value to you. The staff welcomes feedback in order to continuously improve.
and learning, and quickly realized that this Association and its
After I pass the gavel to Greg
volunteer roles are not intimidating. NATM staff and other board
Snyder this February, I will
members are more than willing to coach new volunteers and help
continue to stay engaged and
them settle into their role.
involved with the Association
I am glad that I made the decision to become involved, and I am proud to be a very small part of the accomplishments that the
and I hope to see you all in New Orleans in February.
Association made during my tenure. Throughout my career, I
Thank you for a wonderful two
have utilized the NATM’s conventions, meetings and publications
years,
Mike Lloyd, Aluma, Ltd. NATM President
to increase my knowledge of the trailer industry and I am pleased that the NATM continues to be “the premier” Association for our industry. I would like to thank the many people that made this experience gratifying. Thank you to all of the members that make this Association a possibility. If it wasn’t for all of you, the compliance program and our work to improve the safety of the industry would not be a possibility. Those that took the step further to attend the convention, volunteer on a committee or attend the Regulatory Roundup also deserve recognition. It is only with your commitment and support that we will raise awareness of our industry and continue to improve trailer safety. I had the honor to work with great board members that were willing to sacrifice their time to serve this industry, and I wish my successor Greg Snyder, CAR MATE, best of luck as he takes the position of president at the reception in New Orleans this February. A special thank you goes to Gary Potter, EZ Loader Custom Boat Trailers, for his support and his guidance as past president. Very little would be possible without a strong staff to keep the day-to-day operations running smoothly. Executive Director Pam Trusdale and the staff have kept the Association upright, on course, and pointed in the right direction. The NATM staff has evolved into an extremely dedicated and dynamic unit that is ready to show the membership that they will provide the President Mike Lloyd (far right) visiting Washington, D.C. for the annual Regulatory Roundup. www.NATM.com
January/February 2015
5
Headquarters Report
Tracks
Headquarters Report by Pam Trusdale, NATM Executive Director Each year in December the Executive Committee meets at NATM Headquarters to make committee assignments and set goals for the upcoming year. It is encouraging to see how many new volunteers we have recruited over the past several years and this year is no exception. Most of the loyal committee members have volunteered to participate, along with a significant number of new participants. This combination helps combine corporate knowledge with the fresh new ideas of first time committee members. Staff is now in the process of putting together the information and notifying committee members. Committee orientations are held during the convention to review the goals and give committee members an opportunity to get acquainted and ask questions. The committee goals are aligned with the NATM strategic plan. This year all of the committees were diligent in working towards completion of those goals and almost all of the goals were achieved. One particular success was the Trailer Dealer Committee goal to recruit 150 dealers to the Dealers Committed to Compliance (DCTC) program. They exceeded their goal and as of the first of December there were 186 dealers in the program. Many of those dealers were recruited following a presentation at the NATDA Trade Show presented by NATM. In October a similar presentation was presented in Twin Falls, Idaho at the Charmac dealer meeting. At both presentations there were many good questions and a sincere interest from dealers wanting to get more involved. NATM listened to their concerns and the Executive Committee made the decision to expand the makeup of the Trailer Dealer Committee. The 2015 committee will be made up of half NATM members and half dealer affiliates. There is a strong commitment to expand this program and ensure it is meeting the needs of the dealers. This will give dealer affiliates an opportunity to share their concerns and suggest programs and information that will help them sell NATM compliance verified members’ trailers. The success of NATM can be attributed to the involvement and support of its members. Charmac Trailers is an example of that commitment. Max Casperson, founder of Charmac, was one of the officers elected at the first NATM Convention held in Kansas City. A Charmac company newsletter reported on that first convention:
Chickasha, Okla. Eight representations from six livestock trailer manufacturers at the initial meeting elected officers. The officers gave the organization a very heavy Oklahoma representation. At the beginning of the national meeting in Kansas City, the slate resigned in order to allow a broader membership base a voice in electing officers and directors.” The article went on to report that there were 20 companies represented at that first meeting. “Among the items accomplished at the meeting were adoption of bylaws for the association, election of officers and a board of directors, and establishment of separate committees to increase membership in the organization and to develop industry standards with which manufacturers of these light-duty trailers will comply.” Charmac was at that first meeting, was one of the first volunteers for the NATM Compliance program, and has continued to show this same support of the industry and NATM through the promotion of the program to dealers. Today – 28 years later – NATM is still pursuing the same goals set by those founding members who set out to organize and improve the trailer manufacturing industry. The focus continues to be on trailer safety with a broadened scope of programs to support the mission. Since 1987 the dues have increased from $400 for membership to $795 for Associate and $840 for Regular members. This is a relatively small increase when you consider the scope of the programs now offered – compliance consultations, Guidelines, Tracks magazine, a Convention & Trade Show and government affairs representation among others. The government affairs program is one of the newest benefits provided to members (established in 2007). As the transportation industry comes under more and more scrutiny, NATM’s efforts on legislative and regulatory issues on behalf of its members is becoming increasingly important and NATM has similarly increased its attention to these issues. NATM will continue to advocate on behalf of its members on a broad scope of issues to ensure that members are not unduly burdened by regulations intended for cars and light trucks but draw in trailers as “motor vehicles.” All revenue generated by dues and other sources are invested in programs to benefit members and improve the industry. As we look to the coming year and beyond, your continued support is crucial and very much appreciated.
“The national meeting of the new association was an outgrowth of an organization meeting held last September in
6
January/February 2015
www.NATM.com
Run Lean
®
M42 Band Saw Blade Prices Discounts for ordering 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 blades. WIDTH 4'-6" 5'-0" 5'-6" 6'-0" 6'-6" 7'-0" 7'-6" 8'-0" 8'-6" 9'-0" 9'-6" 10'-0" 10'-6" 11'-0" 11'-6" 12'-0" 12'-6" 13'-0" 13'-6" 14'-0" 14'-6" 15'-0" 15'-6" 16'-0" 16'-6" 17'-0" 17'-6" 18'-0" 18'-6" 19'-0" 19'-6" 20'-0" 20'-6" 21'-0" 21'-6" 22'-0" 22’-6” 23’-0”
1/2” 16.08 17.15 18.23 19.30 20.37 21.44 22.51 23.58 24.65 25.73 26.80 27.87 28.94 30.01 31.08 32.15 33.23 34.30 35.37 36.44 37.51 38.58 39.65 40.73 41.80 42.87 43.94 45.01 46.08 47.15 48.23 49.30 50.37 51.44 52.51 53.58 54.65 55.73
3/4" 17.75 19.01 20.27 21.53 22.78 24.04 25.30 26.55 27.81 29.07 30.33 31.58 32.84 34.10 35.35 36.61 37.87 39.13 40.38 41.64 42.90 44.15 45.41 46.67 47.93 49.18 50.44 51.70 52.95 54.21 55.47 56.73 57.98 59.24 60.50 61.75 63.01 64.27
1" 18.65 20.01 21.37 22.73 24.08 25.44 26.80 28.15 29.51 30.87 32.23 33.58 34.94 36.30 37.65 39.01 40.37 41.73 43.08 44.44 45.80 47.15 48.51 49.87 51.23 52.58 53.94 55.30 56.65 58.01 59.37 60.73 62.08 63.44 64.80 66.15 67.51 68.87
1-1/4" 20.67 22.25 23.83 25.41 26.99 28.58 30.16 31.74 33.32 34.90 36.48 38.06 39.64 41.22 42.80 44.39 45.97 47.55 49.13 50.71 52.29 53.87 55.45 57.03 58.62 60.20 61.78 63.36 64.94 66.52 68.10 69.68 71.26 72.85 74.43 76.01 77.59 79.17
WIDTH 15’-6” 16’-0” 16’-6” 17’-0” 17’-6” 18’-0” 18’-6” 19'-0" 19'-6" 20'-0" 20'-6" 21'-0" 21'-6" 22'-0" 22'-6" 23'-0" 23'-6" 24'-0" 24'-6" 25'-0" 25'-6" 26'-0" 26'-6" 27'-0" 27'-6" 28'-0" 28'-6" 29'-0" 29'-6" 30'-0" 30’-6” 31’-0” 31'-6" 32'-0" 32'-6" 33'-0" 33'-6" 34'-0"
1-1/2" 68.79 70.78 72.77 74.75 76.74 78.73 80.72 82.71 84.70 86.68 88.67 90.66 92.65 94.64 96.63 98.62 100.60 102.59 104.58 106.57 108.56 110.55 112.53 114.52 116.51 118.50 120.49 122.48 124.46 126.45 128.44 130.43 132.42 134.41 136.39 138.38 140.37 142.36
2" 86.20 88.74 91.29 93.83 96.38 98.92 101.46 104.01 106.55 109.10 111.64 114.19 116.73 119.28 121.82 124.36 126.91 129.45 132.00 134.54 137.09 139.63 142.18 144.72 147.26 149.81 152.35 154.90 157.44 159.99 162.53 165.08 167.62 170.16 172.71 175.25 177.80 180.34
2-5/8" 117.67 121.14 124.62 128.09 131.56 135.03 138.50 141.97 145.45 148.92 152.39 155.86 159.33 162.80 166.28 169.75 173.22 176.69 180.16 183.63 187.11 190.58 194.05 197.52 200.99 204.47 207.94 211.41 214.88 218.35 221.82 225.30 228.77 232.24 235.71 239.18 242.65 246.13
Just 5 clicks in two minutes can save you up to 30% Check our prices against your current supplier and see how they match up. We’re confident you’ll gain bargaining power with them, or better yet, be convinced to switch to us. And all it takes is a 5-click, two minute visit to our website or a simple phone call. So ask yourself, is 2 minutes of your time worth saving 30%? And don’t forget, we ship FREE on all orders over 150.00.
800.754.6920 NOW SELLING A COMPLETE INVENTORY OF COLDSAW BLADES ONLINE
Statistically Speaking
Tracks
Statistically Speaking by Dick DuMont, Statistical Surveys, Inc. Sales for the light- and medium-duty trailer industry rose 5.4 percent in September of 2014. Nationally, the registration data is up 4.9 percent for the calendar year ending in September. Following are the details of the market’s performance for the five trailer segments as reported by Statistical Surveys, Inc.
Following are the top state rankings in sales growth for all trailer types for the year ending in September 2014.
Trailer Type
Sept. 2014
Boat
Ranking
State
Percent Growth
1
Michigan
22.0 %
Year to Date Sept. 2014
2
Idaho
18.1 %
1.5 %
3.7 %
3
Florida
15.5 %
Enclosed
2.5 %
2.8 %
4
New Hampshire
14.3 %
Horse
2.6 %
3.1 %
5
Utah
13.1 %
Livestock
18.8 %
4.3 %
2014 continues to be a good year for commercial trailer sales.
Open
5.5 %
4.8 %
Industry
5.4 %
4.9 %
If there are any questions or if Statistical Surveys, Inc. can help, please contact Randy LeMasters at (620) 431-4487 or at rlemasters@statisticalsurveys.com.
Please note that Tennessee is experiencing data delays and will be added to the proper month when received.
EnviroServe’s Solve It™
EnviroServe’s EnviroKote™
EnviroServe’s AntiSpatter™
products are designed to clean the toughZirconium Pretreatment Chemistry is products are designed to eliminate diffiest soils that are accumulated during the “carrying the load” in the trailer, truck bed cult to remove welding spatter BB’s and manufacturing process. & body manufacturing industries. smut from the surface of the metal. Multi-Metal Safe Eco-Friendly Cleaners Heavy Duty Products Superior Results
Advanced Green Chemistry Extreme Corrosion Resistance Enhanced Paint Adhesion Rinse Free Processes
Non Aerosol Concentrated and Ready to Use Products Easily Cleaned
Visit www.enviroservechemicals.com, call 910.892.1791 or email sales@enviroserveinc.com. Visit us at the NATM Convention and Trade show in New Orleans, LA. Feb 11-13 Booth #427 8
January/February 2015
www.NATM.com
TM
Your One-Stop
H E A D Q U A R T E R S
Quality Trailer Parts And Accessories For Every Customer’s Needs! Our Goal:
Customer Satisfaction! For More Info: Contact Rockwell American at: 800-243-4883 Or visit our website:
www.rockwellamerican.com
Regular Member Spotlight: Bulldog Folding Trailers
Tracks T Tr rac ackkss
Bulldog Folding Trailers Awarded Best New "Gear of the Year" By: Meghan Ryan, NATM Communications Director
The folding, multi-sport trailer is seen here loaded with gear. The trailer weighs approximately 150 lbs and is rated to carry loads up to 840 lbs with a GTM of 992 lbs.
After long days of fishing, Jeff Drugmand a certified professional fly fishing guide, was tired of straining his back from the hassle involved with loading his kayak onto the roof rack of his truck. Drugmands’ homeowners association prevented him from storing trailers outside and not wanting to take up valuable garage space with a conventional trailer, this outdoorsman began looking for an alternative to haul his gear. After searching online, Drugmand came across the solution: stowable, foldable trailers that could be configured to carry various boats, motorcycles and, as a box trailer, anything else needed on outdoor adventures. The problem: they were only sold in Australia.
10 10
January/February Jan aan nuar nuar arry/ yy/F /Feebr brrua b uar u ary 22015 00115 015
An entrepreneur by heart and the previous owner of a construction business for 29 years, Drugmand believed there must be a lot of people in his shoes that could also use such trailers, so he worked with Bulldog Worldwide Manufacturing in Australia to become the U.S. distributor in April of 2014. The trailer weighs approximately 150 lbs and is rated to carry loads up to 840 lbs with a Gross Trailer Mass (GTM) of 992 lbs. It’s engineered for both highway and off-road use, but unlike traditional rigid trailers, the Bulldog Folding Trailer folds on multi-axes and can be stored in the corner of a garage when not in use.
www.NATM.com www ww w w..N .NA NA N ATM TM. TM. M com com co om
Regular Member Spotlight: Bulldog Folding Trailers
Tracks The Bulldog Folding Trailer, which has been used in Australia for over 20 years, is built “Outback Tough,” using corrosive resistant, hot-dipped galvanized and stainless steel components. As a trailer manufacturing member of NATM, Bulldog Folding Trailers are certified and meet stringent guidelines. “When I started to look at the process of trailer manufacturing, I needed to find out what requirements it would take to bring this product to the U.S. This was going to be one of my biggest initial hurdles. Joining NATM was a clear choice to see what I needed to do to be able to import, and I talked to NATM Compliance Director Greg Soden and Technical Director Russ Moore who helped me out. Russ was instrumental in helping me figure all of this out, and it was absolutely a good experience.” With lighting being one of the biggest issues for his certification, Drugmand quickly conformed to the necessary NATM requirements, sent the changes to the manufacturer and currently sells the trailers as kits, which are assembled by the end-user. Ideally, Drugmand would like to source a manufacturer to build the trailers domestically, but so far, that has been a challenge.
“The footprint size of a folded trailer is the same as a regular doormat—if you can find room to lay down a doormat, you can find room for this trailer,” says Drugmand. Bulldog Folding Trailers USA was recently awarded the best new “Gear of the Year” award by 50 Campfires Magazine for its folding multi-use utility trailer. 50 Campfires, the online “Camping Authority” chose the Bulldog Folding Trailer for its versatile, multifunctional capabilities and the fact that the trailer can be folded and stored in a very small space when not in use. The full article can be viewed at http://50campfires. com/2014gearoftheyear. For more information, visit bulldogfoldingtrailers.com.
The trailer folds up to take up the same floor space as a regular sized doormat.
Currently all sales are made online via the Bulldog Folding Trailers website, but Drugmand plans to setup select regional dealerships utilizing drop-ship dealer programs. Drugmand feels that the trailers are the solution for the consumers that are looking to haul their gear or toys but don’t have a lot of extra space to store another piece of equipment.
Bulldog Folding Trailers also offers trailers built to haul boats, canoes, kayaks, motorcycles and other sporting gear. w www www.NATM.com ww w w..NA NATM NA TM. M com com om
January/February Ja Jan Janu aan nua uar u ary/F /Febr /F eb bruar uar ua u a y 22015 0015 01 15 15
11 11
YOUR HYDRAULICS ARE ONLY AS GOOD AS YOUR BATTERY SPECIALISTS FROM THE BATTERY TO THE HYDRAULIC CIRCUIT
PUMP ON
R ILE A R T E TH
NEW ITEMS
A JACK
S IST IAL C SPE
3 YEAR AR
WARRANTY TY
TOOL BOXES
7 HOIST MODELS TO CHOOSE FROM
HYDRAULIC JACK KITS
TELESCOPIC AND TIE ROD CYLINDERS SOLAR PANEL
OTHER GREAT
CYLINDERS
PRODUCTS:
PUMPS
FITTINGS
HOISTS
PANEL MOUNT A/C CHARGER
JACKS
HOSES
PULSETECH PRODUCTS AND OTHER ACCESSORIES
ORDER TODAY!
WWW.PREMIUM-SUPPLY.COM OR CALL 866.934.0777
GO FARTHER.
Zn
ZINC-PLATED HARDWARE
ASSEMBLED IN THE USA
WATERPROOF ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
INTEGRATED ONE-PIECE SPINDLE AND FLANGE
Lippert Components axles always take you farther. Our state-of-the-art robotic welders ensure the highest precision and quality on every component. We offer a full line of reliable spring, torsion and heavy-duty 10-12K capacity axles to meet your unique speciďŹ cations.
574.312.6651 | OEMsales@lci1.com | lippertcomponents.com 5
117960-NATM-11/14-REV1
PREMIUM BLACK POWDER-COAT FINISH
Changing Landscape in 2015 Following Federal Elections - Implications
Tracks
Changing Landscape in 2015 Following Federal Elections - Implications By: Darrell Conner and Dennis Potter, K&L Gates The November elections dramatically altered the Congressional landscape for the 114th Congress (2015-2016). It also changes the Obama Administration’s regulatory and policy approach during the remaining two years of its eight-year term. These transformations create opportunities and risks for trailer manufacturers.
Republicans Gain Control of the U.S. Congress In the U.S. House of Representatives, Republicans will control with at least 247 seats in the new Congress. There will be at least 60 new House members – 43 Republicans and 17 Democrats – with some of these Members, e.g., those joining the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, needing to be educated on NATM’s issues. With Republican’s remaining in control, NATM remains on solid footing in that body, with several supportive Members remaining in the majority such as Reps. Lynn Jenkins (R-KS), Steve Stivers (R-OH) and Bill Shuster (R-PA). In the United States Senate, Republicans gained control with 54 seats. Several Members who have been strong supporters of NATM gain new clout in the body. Oklahoma Senator Jim Inhofe takes the gavel at the Environment and Public Works Committee and Kansas Senator Pat Roberts takes the helm at the Agriculture Committee. Kansas Senator Jerry Moran will remain as chair of the Labor, Health And Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee of the Appropriations Committee. All three of these Senators signed a letter urging enactment of a doubles towing provision strongly supported by NATM. Senator John Thune (R-SD) will become the chairman of the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, which maintains jurisdiction over NHTSA and other federal highway programs of importance to NATM. These changes give Republicans control of the U.S. Congress for the first time since the 109th Congress (2005-2006). As a result,
14
January/February 2015
Republicans will set the Congressional agenda and will use their authorities to increase oversight of the Democratically-controlled White House. A guide to the changes in Congress can be found at http://www.klgates.com/electionguide2014, and it is regularly updated to reflect the latest developments. The Congressional Agenda in the 114th Congress The Congressional agenda will continue to be dominated by the major issues confronting the nation – immigration, taxation, and government funding. However, a significant amount of policy work awaits the new Congress in the transportation arena. MAP21, which authorized surface transportation programs, will expire on May 31, 2015. To reauthorize those programs, Congress must find revenue for the Highway Trust Fund, which finances surface transportation programs. Additionally, by the end of 2014, Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx is expected to unveil the Department’s 30 year vision for transportation policy, which could influence legislation and policy related to the nation’s transportation system. The agenda will also include a Department of Transportation appropriation for fiscal year 2016, Amtrak reauthorization and reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration. Congress is expected to aggressively pursue these items early in 114th Congress since the 2016 Presidential primaries will begin to influence legislative activity in late 2015 and early 2016. In the near term, the increased pressure on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (“NHTSA”) as a result of the scrutiny of problems related to the General Motors ignition switch recall and the recall of millions of air bags produced by Takata Corp. can be expected to dominate transportation headlines. There have already been a number of proposals to reform NHTSA in the wake of these recalls, and those proposals (and others) are likely to be re-introduced in the new Congress. In the past, such proposals have had provisions with adverse consequences for NATM members. President Obama’s recent nomination of Mark Rosekind to serve as NHTSA Administrator will bring further attention to www.NATM.com
Changing Landscape in 2015 Following Federal Elections - Implications
Tracks the agency. The Senate will consider his nomination, and if confirmed, he would be the first permanent head of the agency since Administrator David Strickland resigned in 2013, and at a time of great uncertainty regarding motor vehicle safety. President’s Use of Executive Action as Counter-Balance to a Republican-Controlled Congress With Republicans controlling the Congressional agenda, the Administration likely will take a more aggressive approach to using executive authorities to effect the policy changes it wants since Congress is unlikely to pass the President’s or Democrat’s legislative priorities. This was recently demonstrated by the President’s Executive Order on immigration. The President also continues to make climate change a priority, and will use executive authority to press forward on climate initiatives, in particular through rulemakings at the Environmental Protection Agency. Republicans will use their newfound clout to press back against these actions, including through legal action. Republicans recently filed a lawsuit regarding certain executive actions taken by President Obama in an effort to slow executive actions. Republicans can also be expected to exercise significant oversight hearings on Presidential actions. These activities could increase tensions between the Congress and the Administration.
and medium- duty trailers, and it will be closely following Presidential nominations. The Association also will be working to educate current and new Members of Congress on issues of importance to the industry. To help in the education process, NATM member companies are inviting Members of Congress to tour trailer and component manufacturing sites across the country. If you would like to host a plant tour during the 114th Congress, please contact Allison Malmstrom at Allison.Malmstrom@natm.com. Darrell Conner is a Government Affairs Counselor and Dennis Potter is a Government Affairs Analyst at the law and lobbying firm of K&L Gates, where they represent NATM and other clients on legislative, regulatory, policy and political matters. Conner can be reached at Darrell.Conner@klgates.com and Potter can be reached at Dennis.Potter@klgates.com.
I NEED... MY MIND READ.
NATM Political Action Committee (PAC) Supports Candidates Finally, the 2014 election cycle was another successful one for the NATM PAC. Virtually all of the Members of Congress supported by the NATM PAC were re-elected, including Senators Pat Roberts (R-KS), Mark Warner (D-VA), Joe Donnelly (DIN), Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Dan Coats (R-IN). In the House, Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA), Rep. Steve Stivers (R-OH), Rep. Lynn Jenkins (R-KS), Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Rep. Tim Huelskamp (R-KS), Rep. Lou Barletta (R-PA) and Rep. Colin Peterson (D-MN) were re-elected. The NATM PAC Board is working to determine how to allocate resources for the upcoming election cycle. To learn more about NATM PAC and how you can support its efforts, please contact Pam Trusdale (Pam.Trusdale@natm.com). As the 114th Congress begins, NATM will be working hard to adjust to the Congressional changes and possible Administration actions. The organization will be closely monitoring legislative proposals and executive actions for potential impacts on light-
www.NATM.com
Austin Hardware knows what you need. That’s why we stock parts for every load-hauling vehicle you build. It’s why our in-house sales specialists can readily turn your ideas into real hardware solutions. And why our fast-turn orders and Vendor Managed Inventory programs don’t just meet your needs, but anticipate them. Some might call that mind reading. We call it good customer service. California: 800.821.3520 | Georgia: 800.821.1664 | Indiana: 800.220.8118 Missouri: 800.821.3520 | Pennsylvania: 800.634.4293 | Texas: 800.527.5640 Wisconsin: 800.220.8118 | www.austinhardware.com
January/February 2015
15
Fast Delivery to Meet Your Production Needs At Bludot weʼre “braking” away with new trailer brake system solutions and delivery parameters especially designed for todayʼs lean manufacturing and JIT environments. Call our experienced staff to custom design a trailer brake package that meets your production needs and experience the fastest turnaround in our industry. Bludot is a one-stop solution for your production line. We provide everything from hydraulic brake line kits and electric/hydraulic, to vacuum/hydraulic, air/hydraulic and straight air brake systems – with or without ABS Contact Bludot for a free brochure featuring the new BrakeFinder cd-rom. The new BrakeFinder function allows you to search the complete line of Bludot products and determine which system most accurately suits your needs. It also contains detailed product descriptions and printable spec sheets. Call: 888-6-BLUDOT or 574-277-2306; Fax: 574-277-3785 Write: Bludot Inc., 4335 Meghan Beeler Ct. South Bend, IN 46628 E-mail: sales@Bludotinc.com Visit us on the web at www.Bludotinc.com
Rep. Walorski Tours LOOK Trailers Facility
Tracks
Rep. Walorski Tours LOOK Trailers Facility On Nov. 25, Rep. Jackie Walorski (Ind.-2) visited LOOK Trailers at its Middlebury, Ind., facility. During her visit, she took a factory tour and spoke with owner Matt Arnold about the issues and challenges facing local trailer manufacturers. Walorski values the significance of manufacturing in the Elkhart County area and understands the importance of trained skilled labor in the workforce. Rep. Walorski is a member of the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, the committee that oversees any applicable “trailer” legislation on the House side. LOOK Trailers was founded in February 2010 and was already the fastest-growing enclosed trailer company in 2011, according to Statistical Surveys, Inc. Headquartered in Middlebury, Ind., LOOK Trailers manufactures a wide variety of enclosed steel and aluminum trailers including cargo, auto hauler, ATV, snowmobile and race. LOOK also manufactures Pace American and Cargo Express enclosed trailers across four facilities in Indiana, Georgia, Utah and Arizona. For more information visit www.looktrailers.com. NATM actively looks for members in districts represented by Transportation & Infrastructure members to host plant tours so that Members of Congress can have a better knowledge of the light- and medium- duty trailer industry, know it’s impact on their legislative district and know that NATM is the premier Association and resource for the industry. If you are interested in hosting a legislative roundtable or inviting a representative to your facility, please contact Allison Malmstrom at Allison.Malmstrom@natm.com
www.NATM.com
LOOK Trailers owner Matt Arnold and Rep. Jackie Walorski (Ind.-2) at the Middlebury, Ind. facility in November.
January/February 2015
17
CRE-X21. TOUGH, CORROSION-FIGHTING EPOXY PRIMERS.
If you’re looking to provide your customers with best-in-class corrosion and chemical resistance for your trailer finishes, CRE-X21 Series epoxy primers from PPG are the ideal solution. Available in black, gray, white and a custom tintable version, this primer series provides excellent adhesion and sag resistance, along with high build capabilities well suited for application over a sandblasted profile. CRE-X21 Series primers are plural-component capable and formulated to be lead- and chrome-free. For a demo, contact your local PPG Commercial Coatings distributor. www.ppgcommercialcoatings.com Proud member of NATM since 1989
©2014 PPG Industries, Inc. All rights reserved. The PPG logo and Bringing innovation to the surface are trademarks of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc.
“WE BELIEVE IN GIVING OUR CUSTOMERS THE BEST FINISHED PRODUCT POSSIBLE. WHEN YOU COMBINE THE OUTSTANDING CORROSION RESISTANCE AND PERFORMANCE OF CRE-SERIES EPOXY WITH THE DURABILITY OF PPG’S AUE-370 URETHANE TOPCOAT, IT CREATES A BEAUTIFUL YET ‘BULLET-PROOF’ FINISH.” Kevin Lebel General Manager Coastal Truck & Auto Body
•
HIGH BUILD CAPABILITY WITH ONE COAT APPLICATION
•
EASILY FILLS 2+ MIL SANDBLASTED PROFILES
•
ENHANCED CORROSION AND CHEMICAL RESISTANCE
•
2.1 VOC LBS/GALLON
•
FAST DRY TO TOPCOAT
•
USER-FRIENDLY MIX RATIOS AND APPLICATION
•
AIR DRY OR FORCE DRY CURE OPTIONS
Find us in Booth
#455
NEW KID IN TOWN? HARDLY. .50 .48 O.D.
.50
4
You may not be familiar with our name, but we know a thing or two about manufacturing leg torsion springs. 0U MHJ[ ^L»]L ILLU I\PSKPUN WHY[ULYZOPWZ ^P[O ZH[PZÄ LK J\Z[VTLYZ HYV\UK [OL JV\U[Y` MVY HSTVZ[ `LHYZ ;OH[»Z because we combine our premium-quality springs with value added features like powder coating, e-coating, an in-house paint system, custom packaging, just-in-time production, blanket order/stocking programs, and our well-known customer service — so you and `V\Y WYVK\J[Z ^PSS ILULÄ [ 0[»Z HIV\[ [PTL ^L Ä UHSS` TL[ *HSS LP[OLY VM V\Y JVU]LUPLU[ SVJH[PVUZ [V ZLL ^OH[ ^L JHU KV MVY `V\Y I\ZPULZZ Iowa Spring Manufacturing & Sales Southern Atlantic Spring
^^^ PV^HZWYPUN JVT
^^^ ZV\[OLYUH[SHU[PJZWYPUN JVT
What's Behind 2014's Record-Breaking Number of Recalls?
Tracks
What’s Behind 2014’s Record-Breaking Number of Recalls? by Megan Schmidt, Contributing Editor, Quality Progress
This article was first printed in ASQ’s Quality Progress magazine December 2014. It is reprinted here with permission.
“I think the industry is a little bit jittery,” said Rene Stephens, J.D. Power and Associates vice president.
It’s been an unprecedented year for auto recalls with more than 56 million cars and trucks—one in five vehicles—recalled this year in the United States alone.
Automakers seem to be erring on the side of caution and would rather issue a recall than have its corporate social responsibility questioned, Stephens said.
The flurry of recalls have been for problems that run the gamut and have included high-profile cases such as General Motor’s faulty ignition switches, Takata’s exploding airbags and Chrysler’s failing alternators and power-mirror wiring.
This year, federal prosecutors fined Toyota $1.2 billion, the largest criminal penalty for an automaker in the United States, after Toyota admitted to concealing information and misleading the public about the safety issues behind recalls of 10 million cars.
Whether minor inconveniences or serious safety lapses, 2014’s recalls have cost automakers billions of dollars and dented the reputations of automakers and regulators.
GM also made headlines this year after it was revealed that GM waited 11 years to recall millions of cars with faulty ignition switches because it wanted to avoid costly replacements. That defect has been tied to 29 deaths and 27 injuries and potentially hundreds more.
The previous record was 30.8 million recalls in 2004. Considering that mechanical and electrical sophistication, quality and safety in today’s vehicles are at their highest levels ever, an obvious question: “Why all the recalls?” The answer isn’t simple. Global supply chain One reason for the rash of recalls, said David Whiston, an equity analyst at investment research firm Morningstar, is a movement to standardize parts across the globe. That’s helpful for carmakers, “but, when something goes wrong, it will now go wrong across a much wider number of vehicles than people are used to hearing about in the news for a recall,” he said. According to Kelley Blue Book senior analyst Karl Brauer, high-volume recalls are a downside of an increasingly global automotive supplier base. “We’ve moved from having hundreds of automotive suppliers that each served a small part of the industry to having a dozen or so suppliers doing almost everything,” he said. “This means one problem with a supplier can impact a wide range of makes and models.” Ron Berglund, a quality and performance improvement expert in Detroit, attributed the record-breaking year to automakers issuing recalls to quickly fix even the smallest problems. “There is heightened awareness of quality by automakers, regulators and the media, which creates the perception of a so-called ‘quality crisis,’” he said.
20
January/February 2015
Watchdog oversight Regulators are also under more scrutiny in their handling of recalls. The spike in recalls could be linked to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association’s (NHTSA) crackdown on automakers in an effort to prove its effectiveness to Congress and the public. An investigation by the New York Times in September showed the NHTSA has been consistently slow to identify problems, take action and use its full legal authority against automakers. In many known vehicle safety issues of late—including the exploding airbags made by Takata—the NHTSA did not intervene until the problems had escalated to a crisis level and motorists were injured or killed. “The problem is that in North America, safety is not job No. 1 for any of the car companies, and any of the regulatory agencies here in the U.S. or Canada are not up to the job of policing the auto industry,” said Clarence Ditlow of the U.S. Center for Auto Safety. With a staff of 51 people and a budget of $10 million, the investigative arm of the NHTSA researches 40,000 consumer complaints a year in addition to recalls initiated by automakers. Concerned about safety lapses by the country’s top auto
www.NATM.com
What's Behind 2014's Record-Breaking Number of Recalls?
Tracks regulator, the Department of Transportation recently opened an investigation into the risk management and safety culture of the NHTSA for the Obama administration. Tuned out Although this year’s recalls may be troubling, Berglund suggested the greater problem is that consumers often ignore automakers’ requests to fix problems. “Recalls are now considered ‘news’ rather than information between consumers and manufacturers,” Berglund said. Nearly one-third of recall notices mailed to vehicle owners are ignored, according to the NHTSA. Additionally, the media frenzy stirred up by each recall could be causing automotive recall fatigue. “We’re living in what we’re now referring to as the year of the
automotive recall and unfortunately the population of drivers may become numb to that,” said Mike Rozembajgier, a vice president of Stericycle, a medical waste management service in Indianapolis that provides recall readiness training and handles product recalls and retrievals for the healthcare industry. “People begin to think, ‘I already checked,’ or ‘That’s not my car,’ or ‘That’s not that serious.’ But they’re all serious. They all have safety implications,” he said. The NHTSA has criticized automakers for downplaying the severity of problems. “The letter that goes to the consumer is the most critical factor in getting a higher level of response,” said Joan Claybrook, former NHTSA head and longtime traffic safety advocate. “A lot of times it’s pablum. The auto companies dumb it down so it doesn’t say, ‘Alert, alert, you could die.’”
On Jan. 15, 2015 NATM members attended a webinar hosted by NATM and RVIA, presented by NHTSA’s Bruce York regarding EWR reporting. NHTSA provided the webinar to reiterate the importance of following regulatory requirements submitting complete EWR information. NHTSA expressed concerns about acquiring information when investigating manufacturers and have opted to educate manufacturers while also instituting a more aggressive approach to enforcement. The next issue of Tracks magazine will provide a follow-up report about EWR webinar and topics of concern.
Genuine Family Values, Quality Custom Metal Fabrication, and Reliable Service ... Still Important and Going Strong for Over 42 years. 57533 CR 3 | Elkhart, IN 46517 | p 574.294.5466 | f 574.522.2310 | KampCo.com www.NATM.com
January/February 2015
21
PRESENTED BY
SAVE THE
DATE!
LAS VEGAS
NE VADA
FEBRUARY 2015 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9 10 11 12 13 14
THE VENETIAN
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
RESORT HOTEL & CASINO
22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Please contact your sales rep for more information at 888.888.4595
8 Best Practices for Weld Fume Management
Tracks
8 Best Practices for Weld Fume Management By: Allan Hilbert, fume extraction product manager and Stephanie Lowney, respiratory product manager, Miller Electric Mfg. Co. Weld fume management is a non-negotiable part of establishing and maintaining a safe, comfortable and compliant work environment, while also providing companies with a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining skilled workers. Managing fumes created by the welding process is necessary for compliance with regulations from agencies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA enforces exposure limits for each individual metal, metal oxide or
gas found in the weld plume, such as hexavalent chromium and manganese. The agency’s Hierarchy of Controls provides the steps for employers to take in order to comply with environmental regulations and improve worker safety. Before companies implement controls, it is recommended to conduct air sampling to understand the types and levels of contaminants in the welding environment. Multiple samples may be necessary to properly characterize an employee’s exposure to weld fumes. Using the Hierarchy of Controls, OSHA recommends minimizing weld fume exposure through these steps: Elimination or Substitution, such as using low-manganese filler metals or changing the shielding gas Engineering Controls, such as fume extraction equipment or centralized ventilation Administrative Controls, such as proper body positioning Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which includes respiratory protection such as half masks, powered air purifying respirators or supplied air respirators Note: The examples listed after each of the above steps are not inclusive; there are many other activities associated with each step. Those listed are for the purpose of this article only.
Placing a priority on a safe and comfortable environment also can provide companies a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining skilled workers. A fume extraction system, such as this shown here, capture weld fume at the source before reaching the welding operator’s breathing zone.
24
January/February 2015
This article will discuss eight key practices to help effectively manage weld fume, particularly from the Engineering Controls and PPE steps identified in OSHA’s Hierarchy of Controls, steps 2 and 4 above. Keep in mind that proper employee
www.NATM.com
8 Best Practices for Weld Fume Management
Tracks training is critical to the successful execution of these controls and other weld fume management activities. Also note that every welding environment is different and therefore should be evaluated by a qualified industrial hygienist to determine the appropriate course of action for fume controls. Proper Operation of a Fume Extraction System Fume extraction systems are part of the second step in OSHA’s Hierarchy of Controls for managing fume, Engineering Controls. There are a few key things to know about these systems to get the best results. Source capture, which captures and removes contaminants at their source before they reach a worker’s breathing zone, is the preferred method of weld fume extraction. Capture devices are available in different shapes and sizes, and are rated based on the amount of cubic feet of air they extract each minute (cubic feet per minute or cfm). The diameter of the ductwork is directly proportional to the cfm of air that the device can move. A low-vacuum/high-volume fume extraction system will feature larger ductwork and move a larger volume of air but at generally lower vacuum pressures. These systems offer larger capture zones. Conversely, highvacuum/low-volume systems capture weld fume much closer to the weld, via a smaller attachment, such as a nozzle. The smaller ducting helps get into restricted spaces and removes the fume much closer to the weld itself. To get the very best results, make sure the capture velocity is sufficient to pull the fume away from the operator’s breathing zone. Consult with an industrial hygienist if in doubt of the cfm capacity needed for the application. Following proper welding procedures and avoiding overwelding (putting down more consumable than is necessary) also helps reduce the amount of fume generated, so there is less that must be removed by the fume extraction system in the first place. Proper positioning of the fume extraction arm is key to the effectiveness of the system. The hood must be positioned properly so it’s pulling the fume away from the worker’s breathing zone. When using a moveable hood or fume extraction arm, position it above the arc and angle at approximately 45 degrees. The hood distance will vary depending on the velocity and volume of air being captured, though in general it’s approximately the distance of 1 1/2 duct diameters away. www.NATM.com
Limiting cross ventilation and employing proper body positioning can help the fume extraction arm work in the most effective manner, and proper employee training can help minimize exposure to the weld fume path. Limiting cross ventilation helps minimize interference with the capture of the fume, lessening the opportunity for the fume to be blown back at the welding operator or at other workers nearby. Welding operators should position themselves so that the airflow is moving from their back to their front. A cross draft can be used advantageously to blow fume away from the operator and toward the hood, but take care to minimize any detrimental cross drafts. Using partitions or curtains in the welding enclosure can help control cross ventilation. A welding operator should also avoid positioning his or her body between the weld and fume extraction arm, to keep his or her face out of the weld plume and to prevent blocking the suctioning capabilities of the fume extraction arm. Fume extraction system maintenance is an important part of saving time and money, ensuring the system works to its fullest capacity and helping create a safer environment. Systems are available with disposable filters or with selfcleaning feature models. A good fume extraction system that uses disposable filters should have a gauge to indicate the filter condition. A filter that gets too dirty won’t let as much air pass through, which reduces the amount of airflow at the hood for effective fume collection. When using a selfcleaning fume extraction system, make sure the compressed air line is hooked up and working properly, and that the air is clean and dry. There are numerous types of filters available, and choosing the appropriate filter can help optimize fume collection. Again, consult with an industrial hygienist when in doubt of the best filter for the application. Proper Respirator Selection and Use Choosing the right respirator is critical. OSHA has identified two major types of respirators: air-purifying and atmosphere-supplying. Air-purifying respirators have filters or cartridges and remove contaminants from the air by filtering them prior to reaching the welding operator. Atmosphere-supplying respirators provide clean air from an uncontaminated source. Proper selection depends on the work environment, as well as the actual exposure levels to the regulated metals. Respirators are rated with an assigned
January/February 2015
25
8 Best Practices for Weld Fume Management
Tracks protection factor (APF) that denotes the workplace level of protection that a respirator is expected to provide. Common Types of Respirators Used in Welding Applications: Air-purifying •
Dust masks, which are paper-like masks that have an APF of 10.
•
Half masks, which can fit under a welding helmet, have replaceable filters or canisters, and have an APF of 10. These require a fit test for mandatory use.
OSHA’s Hierarchy of Controls provides the steps that employers need to take Powered air purifying respirators (PAPRs) use in order to comply with environmental regulations and ensure worker safety. a belt-mounted blower assembly to distribute filtered Implementing personal protective equipment, such as respirators, is one of the final recommended steps. air through a breathing tube to the user’s welding helmet and have an APF of 25. These systems have best suited for each employee and can ensure the respirator replaceable filters and/or canisters and do not require a provides the level of protection as designed. Fit testing should be fit test when used with a welding helmet assembly. administered before the respirator is used and then again annually or whenever there is a change in the user’s physical condition that Atmosphere-supplying could affect the fit of the respirator. • Supplied air respirators distribute breathing air through Having the proper documentation for respirators is a an airline hose to the wearer’s belt-mounted air-control critical part of maintaining OSHA compliance. While a device, which is then sent through a breathing tube to written respiratory protection program is required for both the welding helmet. These systems have an APF of 25 mandatory and voluntary respirator use, the requirements (with a welding helmet) and can also offer heating and do vary. For mandatory use, the written plan must include cooling options. No fit test is required when used with a respirator selection; a medical evaluation showing that each welding helmet assembly. employee is physically able to wear a respirator; fit testing To determine which of these respirators is appropriate, it’s for tight-fitting respirators; use in routine and emergency necessary to consider the maximum use concentration (MUC), situations; established schedules for cleaning, storage and which is calculated by multiplying the APF of a respirator by maintenance; procedures to ensure air quality and flow for OSHA’s permissible exposure limits (PEL) or MUC = APF x atmosphere-supplying respirators, employee training; and OSHA PEL. OSHA considers the MUC to be the upper limit at evaluation of the respiratory program. For voluntary use, the which the class of respirator is expected to provide protection. plan requires medical evaluations, and established schedules Whenever exposures approach the MUC, companies should for cleaning, storage and maintenance. select the next higher class of respirators to provide necessary Respirator inspection, prior to usage, is an important step protection for employees. It’s also important to select only that can help ensure the worker is fully protected. Employees National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)need to be trained on proper inspection procedures prior approved respirators. to using any kind of respirator. It is a good idea to read the Because respirators aren’t one-size-fits-all, proper fitting is key as respirator’s Users Instructions for inspection procedures. well. When choosing a half mask respirator, specifically, a fit test In addition to respirator inspection, employee training for mandatory use is required to ensure a proper seal. Fit testing should cover the general requirements of OSHA respiratory can help identify the make, model, style and size of respirator protection standards, as well as an explanation of why
•
26
January/February 2015
www.NATM.com
8 Best Practices for Weld Fume Management
Tracks a respirator is necessary. Employees should understand the proper selection of respirators; the consequences of improper fit, usage or maintenance; the proper procedures for maintenance and storage; and how to use the respirator effectively in emergency situations. Proper procedures for respirator maintenance and storage — including for cleaning and replacing the units — are also important. A filter change schedule should be established as part of the written respiratory protection program. If the respirator filter becomes damaged, a welding operator detects breathing resistance, or in some cases, battery life quickly diminishes, it is best to check the respirator’s filter assembly and change filters if needed. One issue to note: Unlike with other fume extraction products, the filters on respirators cannot be cleaned, so they must be replaced.
www.NATM.com
Maximizing Weld Fume Management Solutions In addition to selecting the most appropriate weld fume management solution for the application and environment, welding operator training is also important to establish and maintain successful weld fume management practices and compliance. It’s critical that employees understand proper fume extraction system and respirator use to maximize the benefits these solutions can provide toward a cleaner and safer work environment. About Miller Electric Miller Electric Mfg. Co., headquartered in Appleton, Wis., is a leading worldwide manufacturer of Miller brand arc welding products and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Illinois Tool Works Inc. For more information, visit www.millerwelds.com.
January/February 2015
27
PM
®
LED LIGHTING
REAL LIFE TAKES 840 Series S/T/T Light
REAL LIGHTS. Mud. Vibration. Rain. Peterson LEDs hold up to anything you – or Mother Nature – can throw at ’em.
FOR WORKING TRAILERS, real life is no easy street. That’s why Peterson builds the world’s toughest, most reliable trailer lights. Our Peterson LED lights feature rugged solid-state circuitry. Adhesive potting to seal out moisture and corrosion. Hard-wiring to eliminate failure-prone connection points. And more. All made to Peterson’s exacting standards in a wide range of valuepriced models to fit any light- to medium-duty trailer. You build trailers for real life. We build the lights that can handle it. GET REAL. GET PETERSON.
VEHICLE SAFETY LIGHTING
4 2 0 0 E . 1 3 5 t h S t r e e t | G r a n d v i e w, M O 6 4 0 3 0 | 8 1 6 - 7 6 5 - 2 0 0 0
www.pmlights.com
Do you need ramp assist(ance)? Give us a call!
OHIO 800-338-5399
ARIZONA 800-233-3599
NATM Technical Forum 2015
Tracks
NATM Technical Forum 2015 By: Russ Moore, NATM Technical Director The NATM Technical Committee has an exciting lineup of presenters for the Technical Forum at the Annual Convention & Trade Show. Every year NATM strives to provide informative, relevant technical topics that will benefit technical personnel. Kicking off the 2015 Technical Forum is Duane K. Miller, Manager Engineering Services with the Lincoln Electric Company. He will begin the 10:00 a.m. workshop with several interesting topics starting with “Fatigue of Welded Connections.” Dr. Duane K. Miller, Sc.D., P.E., is a recognized authority on the design and performance of welded Dr. Duane K Miller, Sc.D., PE, Lincoln Electric, connections. He is a will be hosting the workshops, "Fatigue of Welded Connections" and "Listen to the Steel: Learning popular speaker on the from Failures" at the NATM Convention. subject and has lectured around the world. Dr. Miller publishes frequently and on three occasions, has been awarded the Silver Quill Award of the American Welding Society (AWS) for the excellence of his published work. In 2001, he received the American Institute of Steel Construction’s T. R. Higgins Lectureship Award, which annually recognizes an outstanding lecturer and author whose technical papers are considered an outstanding contribution to the engineering literature. In 2005, he received AISC’s Lifetime Achievement Award and in 2013, the George E. Willis award from the AWS for his work in advancing welding internationally. He has authored and co-authored chapters of many texts,
30
January/February 2015
including the AISC Design Guide on Welding and the Mark’s Handbook of Engineering, 11th Edition. Dr. Miller earned a B.S. degree in Welding Engineering from LeTourneau University in Longview, Texas, an M.S. in Materials Engineering from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, and was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree from LeTourneau University in 1997. He is the immediate past Chair of the AWS D1 Structural Welding Code Committee. He was the first Chair of the Seismic Welding Subcommittee and is a former cochair of the AASHTO-AWS D1.5 Bridge Welding Code Committee, a current member of the AISC Specification Committee, a Professional Engineer, Certified Welding Inspector and Qualified Welder. Because most mechanical engineering programs include little discussion on the general topic of fatigue, and typically contain no discussion on the fatigue of welded connections, Dr. Miller will discuss “Fatigue of Welded Connections”. This primer on the fatigue of welded connections will discuss the causes of fatigue and the key variables that affect the fatigue life of welded connections. The model presented in AISC Appendix 3, which is the same approach used in AWS standards such as D1.1 and D14.4, will be reviewed. The effect of steel strength, stress range, mean stress, stress ratio and geometric presentations will be discussed with a practical focus on how to improve the fatigue life of welded trailers. Following the 11:30 a.m. Trailer Industry Update luncheon, sponsored by McGladrey, Inc., Dr. Miller will continue with his second workshop “Listen To the Steel: Learning from Failures” at 1:30 p.m. This workshop will explain how failures are often times more instructive experiences than are successes. In this presentation, failures from a variety of industries are reviewed. The fundamental cause(s) of failures will be discussed as well as the solutions implemented to overcome these problems. Each example represents the violation of a separate design principle, reinforcing basic principles of design of welded www.NATM.com
NATM Technical Forum 2015
Tracks connections. Additionally, the presentatoin will review basic principles of failure analysis, enabling the attendee to “listen to the steel.” The afternoon session with Pat Godwin Jr. (The Godwin Group, Champion Hoist) and Patrick Chadwick (Bucher Hydraulics) will review various types of hydraulic systems available and how they incorporate into your hoist and/or cylinder designs. Proper battery wire gauge, battery sizing, grounding, valving, pressures, and flows will be discussed, as well as basic hydraulic cylinder design with an emphasis on thrust capacities and the various classifications of hoists with their efficiencies. Engineering challenges encountered in building the trailer frame/dump bed to suit specific hoist models.
Pat Godwin Jr.,(The Godwin Group, Champion Hoist) will be reviewing hydraulic and design considerations when adding hydraulic components to trailers at the Technical Forum's Session 2.
By popular request, James Fait will return to the NATM convention to give an SAE overview of the progress made this past year on the various trailer task forces. Fait serves as the Chairperson of the SAE Trailer Committee and ensures the committee maintains communication with groups involved with SAE-related committees and other organizations as necessary.
Patrick Chadwick (Bucher Hydraulics) will be reviewing hydraulic and design considerations when adding hydraulic components to trailers at the Technical Forum's Session 2.
The Trailer Committee develops and maintains SAE Standards, Recommended Practices and Information Reports applicable to trailers normally towed by conventional passenger cars, light-duty commercial vehicles, light trucks and multi-purpose passenger vehicles. The taskforces formed under the committee’s direction include: •
Gooseneck and 5th Wheel Task Force
•
Trailer Dynamics Task Force
•
Conventional Towing System up to 20,000 lbs Task Force
•
Trailer Terminology Task Force
Participants in the SAE Trailer Committee include OEMs, suppliers, consulting firms, government and other interested parties. To close the forum, the last 15-minute presentation will be a review of a Generic Interactive Tongue Weight Spreadsheet that may be used as an estimation tool when figuring your trailer tongue weight.
www.NATM.com
James Fait (Chair, SAE Trailer Committee) will return to the NATM Convention in 2015 to give an overview of SAE's progress.
January/February 2015
31
For all of your trailer hardware needs. M A N U FA C T U R I N G ISO 9 0 0 1 : 2 0 0 0 C E RT I F I E D
Design Engineering Prototyping Tool & Die Metal stamping Machining Welding Assembly Finish/Plating Quality Control Warehouse/Shipping
ISO 9001:2000 CERTIF CERTIFIED COMMITTED TO COMPLETE CUSTOMER SATIS SATISFACTION
Waukegan, IL phn. 847.244.8900 fax. 874.244.7222
www.alhansen.com
Rugged. Reliable. In Stock. Made In America. Accept No Substitutes.
New Parts Video
Contact us today: (574) 295-7888 Q www.dexteraxle.com Q 2900 Industrial Parkway East Q Elkhart, IN 46516
Plasma and Oxyfuel: A Productive Combination
Tracks
Plasma and Oxyfuel: A Productive Combination By: Douglas Shuda, Director of Marketing, Global Cutting Technologies Reprinted with permission. Article first appeared on TheFabricator.com Oct. 13, 2014. Gaining flexibility to match individual plate fabrication requirements using both mechanized oxyfuel and plasma cutting can make plate cutting far more efficient. As these technologies advance, fabricators can produce their parts smarter, faster, with the highest quality, and at lower cost. Regardless, the choice to use these technologies on separate machines or on one system is as individual as the application requirements. When it comes to CNC shape cutting in plate, plasma and oxyfuel have remained industry workhorses. Advancements in both have
opened the door to more choices, and which choice to make depends, as always, on the application. To optimize plate fabrication, fabricators and steel service centers should start by asking three fundamental questions: 1.
What is the application?
2.
What are the cutting needs for the application, such as edge quality, production rate, hole quality, type of weld edge preparation, as well as material types and thicknesses?
3.
What are the restrictions, like budget and floor space?
Both plasma and oxyfuel machines have become simpler to use and require less operator intervention. Improvements in CNC, CAD/CAM, and nesting software have helped further both oxyfuel and plasma. All this helps operations having difficulty finding and retaining skilled talent. But even if companies didn’t have trouble with high operator turnover rates and inexperienced operators at the CNC, such advancements are the natural evolution of productivity. Part of this evolution involves taking advantage of each process’s best attributes, and analyzing both processes shows just how complementary plasma arc and oxyfuel cutting really are.
Figure 1: For the right application, using both oxyfuel and plasma on one table shows how complementary these two plate cutting processes can be.
34
January/February 2015
Continued on page 37 www.NATM.com
Come See Our New
F
SION SERIES
and much more!
ans! • NATM 2015 Boo e l r O w e th 119/ nN I u o Y 218 e e S
• ••
•• • •
•
•• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •• ••• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • www.optronicsinc.com
Plasma and Oxyfuel: A Productive Combination
Tracks Basic Process Considerations Oxyfuel is simple and relatively inexpensive. Equipment investment is minimal, and the consumables used are common, low-cost fuel gases such as acetylene, propane, and natural gas. It’s generally used to cut mild steel plate 2 inches or greater. As an oxygen-based process, it requires carbon to cut effectively, restricting its use to mild steel applications. Only low-carbon and some low-alloy steels have oxides with a lower melting point than the base metal, so this means they can be cut effectively with oxyfuel. When adjusted properly, oxyfuel cutting produces smooth, square cut surfaces. There is little slag on the bottom edge, and the top edge is only slightly rounded from the preheat flames. This makes the edge suitable for many applications without further treatment. Fundamentally, oxyfuel is a slow cutting process. But when cutting thicker mild steel and applying multiple cutting torches simultaneously, oxyfuel has the productivity advantage over plasma cutting. This arrangement is costeffective because all those torches share one gas delivery system. However, they usually work only for nests of similar or identical parts, because all torches ride on the same horizontal gantry. System configurations commonly include four to six cutting torches, but high-production applications may use up to eight. Oxyfuel torches also can be configured to cut specialized edges like K bevels simultaneously in a single pass, with three torches configured to cut the bottom bevel, land and top bevel. Plasma can cut any conductive material, including carbon/ mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper and brass. It can gouge and mark, neither of which is possible with oxyfuel. Plasma also can cut metal with scale, rust, paint or primer. Though not necessarily reaching the precision cut quality levels of waterjet or lasers, plasma offers extremely good cut quality across a broad range of materials using different current ratings, usually between 30 and 450 amps, with higher current used for thicker stainless steel and aluminum.
Plasma Cutting Snapshot Material thickness: Gauge up to 3 in. Material types and cut quality: High cut quality in mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum Piercing: Up to 2 in. Cutting speed: Faster than oxyfuel in mild steel up to 2.5 in. thick
than two torches. That’s because each plasma torch usually needs a dedicated power source and gas management system. Slag and dross, surface finish, cut angle, top edge rounding, and heat-affected zone (HAZ) are key when judging cut quality. Plasma cutting has progressed to the point of producing a virtually dross-free edge. Compared to oxyfuel, a plasma cut produces a narrower HAZ, which reduces effects such as plate warping and discoloration. While using a multitorch oxyfuel configuration provides high productivity, the cut quality produced by plasma can, in many applications, eliminate secondary processes like weld prep that may be necessary after an oxyfuel cut. By eliminating weld prep, a fabricator may be able to shorten overall manufacturing time, justifying the slower single-torch plasma cutting operation. Both oxyfuel and plasma have advanced in the past decade, but plasma has done so at a much faster pace. Traditionally, parts thicker than 1 in. were cut with oxyfuel. Today, however, a plasma arc can cut mild steel up to 3 in. thick, with piercing capability up to 2 in. with the ability to cut thicker stainless and aluminum.
And while it’s feasible to use multiple torches when plasma cutting, the additional cost usually limits systems to no more
www.NATM.com
January/February 2015
37
Plasma and Oxyfuel: A Productive Combination
Tracks It takes a skilled worker to consistently produce a good oxyfuel cut. An experienced operator can do this by making the necessary process adjustments to gas flow, standoff and speed. Meanwhile, plasma is becoming more automated, so much so that it’s now less of an art and more of a configured science—and less dependent on operator skill. Plasma cutting systems offer different process levels; part programs are predefined; and builtin features and parameters such as pierce cuts, cut speeds, cut heights, standoffs, and automatic arc ignition simplify machine operation greatly. All this, combined with rapid cut-to-cut cycle times, arc voltage sensing for consistent cut quality, and longer consumables life, has fueled plasma cutting’s popularity.
Oxyfuel Cutting Snapshot Material thickness: Gauge up to 14 in. in a typical production environment, with greater thickness capabilities possible, depending on the machine design. Material types and cut quality: Mild steel; provides a smooth, square surface Piercing: Conventional piercing up to 8 in., though oxygen lancing, which uses a preheated iron tube to produce an intense stream of burning iron at the workpiece, can pierce thicker material Cutting speed: Relatively slow process, up to 22 IPM on 1-in. material; if using multiple torches simultaneously, overall productivity can surpass that of a single plasma torch
38
January/February 2015
At the same time, modern oxyfuel cutting systems have features such as internal ignition torches with flame sensing and electronics integrated into the torch for a more intelligent cutting process. The electronics control such features as integrated height sensing, which eliminates the need for a separate height sensor to keep the correct distance between the cutting nozzle and workpiece; integrated ignition that eliminates the need for and maintenance of external ignition devices; and quick nozzle change that allows technicians to rapidly change nozzles without tools, minimizing setup. In terms of market adoption, plasma technology has gained the most ground globally, especially in markets such as China, South America, Southeast Asia, and India. In these regions oxyfuel cutting historically has been the thermal cutting method of choice simply because it’s simple, low-tech, and inexpensive. But now more of these operations are migrating to plasma cutting. The Value of Both In some cases, having both plasma and oxyfuel on the same machine allows the shop to take advantage of the strengths of each process. This is why fabricators and steel service centers that need to cut many materials often will consider machines equipped with multiple processes. If a shop does not have the capacity or the floor space to warrant dedicated oxyfuel and plasma systems, but needs the flexibility both technologies provide, a combination machine is an alternative. The shop can use the more accurate single-torch plasma for certain contours, and then switch to the oxyfuel process for the remaining contours, because oxyfuel consumes a less expensive fuel gas and is less costly to run. The result: The shop achieves the required part accuracy at a far lower cost than if it used the high-accuracy plasma process to cut the entire part. Strengths and Weaknesses Using both processes in one work envelope gives the fabricator free reign to think outside the box for ways to obtain the best results. Ultimately, shops can optimize cut quality, operating cost, or productivity, depending on what’s most important for the application. Five years ago economic conditions forced many fabricators to reduce production shifts. As business improved, some chose multiprocess cutting systems that added capacity without increasing labor. After all, a single operator can run a machine with two processes, and one cutting table is less expensive
www.NATM.com
Plasma and Oxyfuel: A Productive Combination
Tracks than two. Combining plasma and oxyfuel also makes better use of floor space, which is a particular concern for fabricators in emerging markets where floor space is at a premium.
and acceleration aspects, so components need not be highly precise. Ball screws and rack-and-pinion drives are more than sufficient.
But there are downsides to any multiprocess system. For instance, it’s not practical to cut with both oxyfuel and plasma simultaneously. Combination machines cut with only one process at a time: oxyfuel followed by plasma, or vice versa.
In combining the two technologies, though, a machine has to accommodate the needs of both the oxyfuel and plasma, with a robust table and precision motion control, which can include linear drives.
Moreover, combining technologies brings up new requirements for the machine size, machine accuracy, and cutting precision. A precision plasma cutting system used to cut thin materials quickly does not require a large or robust machine to hold, say, 4-in. mild steel plate, but does require precision motion control (acceleration and deceleration) to achieve a narrow kerf width and, thus, good cutting results.
An Individual Decision Using both mechanized oxyfuel and plasma cutting can make plate fabrication far more efficient and flexible. As these technologies advance, fabricators can produce their parts smarter, faster, with the highest quality, and at lower cost. Regardless, the choice to use these technologies on separate machines or on one system is as individual as the application requirements.
Because oxyfuel cutting equipment handles thicker plates, it requires a larger, more robust table. The larger kerfs and slower cut speeds make the equipment less sensitive to machine motion
www.NATM.com
January/February 2015
39
ferred with Color.
Introducing ProWood Dura Color® trailer decking! Color-treated and pressure-treated for long-lasting durability and good looks, Dura Color's 2-year color assurance (no fade) limited warranty ensures the trailers on your lot hold their value. Treated lumber never looked so good—and never made an open trailer look better! Visit us at ProWoodLumber.com
Universal Forest Products WITHOUT ProWood Dura Color After One Year
WITH ProWood Dura Color After One Year
©2014 Universal Forest Products, Inc. All rights reserved. 7847_10/14
TRAILER ACCESSORIES
TOWING SAFETY SYSTEMS
AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS
AL-KO Axis axles, brakes, hubs and drums are in operation around the world, helping trailers tow smoothly and stop safely. Our products have undergone years of exhaustive testing and we continue to strive for superior reliability in our leaf and rubber torsion axles. The AL-KO Axis commitment is “Quality for Life”.
www.al-koaxis.com
888.220.2556
METAL FAB
Taking charge of your paint coating needs Since 2008
High H igh Q Quality uality Long Lasting Industrial & Military Coatings C oatings Your Partner In Coatings Since 1948 ISO 9001 Certified Headquarters 225 Fort Street Niles MI 49120 800.627.1948
Southeast Division 344 Hudson Road Griffin GA 30224 770.229.0000
N.V.S.C. s.r.l. Via S. Martino 6 15028 Quattordio ITALY 39 0131 773403
w w w. n c p c o a t i n g s . c o m
2015 Convention & Trade Show
Tracks
2015 ConventionBy& Trade Show Allison Malmstrom, NATM Events Director Tina Patzer will be a speaker at the workshop, "Is Green the Right Color for You?" at the 2015 convention.
Attendees of NATM’s Annual Convention and Trade show know that attending the annual event is the perfect opportunity to discover the very best products, services and business solutions for their company. However, the NATM Convention & Trade Show is so much more than the typical trade show. The convention committee and staff carefully review the evaluations received from previous years and assess how to improve the programming to exceed attendees’ expectations. NATM’s convention is for everyone! Company management, production managers, purchasing agents, engineers and young professionals all will find something of value by attending the convention. One of the top reasons people attend the convention is for the educational programming. This year, the convention will offer four different educational workshops, sponsored by Universal Forest Products, in three sessions, February 11-12. The sessions are as follows:
Lucas Landis, Aluminum Trailer Company, and recipient of the 2014 NATM Green Manufacturing Award, will be a speaker at the workshop, "Is Green the Right Color for You?" at the 2015 convention.
Workshop Session One (Feb. 11, 10 – 11:30 a.m.), "Is Green the Right Color for You?" will be a panel format, featuring Tina Patzer, business consultant, and Lucas Landis, Aluminum Trailer Company. The Aluminum Trailer Company (ATC) was the winner of the 2014 NATM Green Award. The moderator will be Ron Yarnell. Ron is with PPG Industries, the sponsor of the NATM Green Award.
Ron Yarnell, PPG Industries, will be the moderator of "Is Green the Right Color for You?" at the 2015 convention.
Workshop Session Two (Feb. 11, 1:30 – 3:00 pm) will be "Introduction to Project Management: Tips and Techniques for Project Success" with Lisa DuTullio, Your Project Office. This session is designed to introduce attendees to project management concepts and processes. It is a short course that instills industry standard practices balanced with practical, easy to adopt techniques. DuTullio will introduce simple practices so that project management is viewed as the work, and not viewed as extra work. Workshop Session Three (Feb. 12, 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.) will offer the attendees two different options: "Charting the Course Through Demographic Change" with Ken Gronbach, KGC Direct, LLC or "Unlocking the Hidden Cost of Welding" with Bill Pharmer, Airgas South. Gronbach, who is also the keynote speaker for the 2015 Convention, will discuss how shifting populations change consumer and labor
44
January/February 2015
www.NATM.com
2015 Convention & Trade Show
Tracks markets. How will you prepare for the impending talent shortage and how will you plan to harness the power of diversity? Who is your customer and how will you reach them? What is your strategy regarding capital expenditures and how is your strategy important to plan your work and work your plan? This session will provide attendees with answers to these questions and insight to how understanding demographics will help your business. Bill Pharmer, Airgas South, will help trailer manufacturers and suppliers alike improve their company’s bottom line with “Unlocking the Hidden Cost of Welding.” Attendees will learn how to increase profits by welding more efficiently and more effectively. This session is focused on the quality and economic aspects of welding; it will provide proven methodology for making improvements to your processes and making them stick; and it will support lean principles and continuous improvement methods. Attendees looking for educational sessions that are more technical in nature should plan on attending the Technical Forum (Feb. 11, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.). The Technical Committee has planned a full day of workshop sessions which vary in length from 15 minutes to 90 minutes. To learn more about the forum in detail, please refer to Russ Moore’s article on page 30. Planning on staying Friday evening in New Orleans? Is attending a Mardi Gras parade on your bucket list? Not sure if you are into being in a large crowd, but still want to experience the celebration? Consider attending the Friday Night Gala, sponsored by CTP Transportation Products and Marsh & McLennan. Gala attendees will have dinner at Desi Vega’s Steakhouse located on St. Charles Avenue in the heart of the route for the Hermes, d’Etat and Morpheus parades. Attendees can stay inside Desi Vega's, enjoying delectable food and drink, while viewing the festivities from the large glass windows, or they can step outside and sit in the reserved stands outside the Lafayette Hotel. This is a can’t miss event! Golfers may be familiar with the host venue for the annual golf tournament, sponsored by Peterson Manufacturing, (Feb. 10, Noon – 5:00 p.m.) held at English Turn Golf and Country Club. This Jack Nicklaus designed 18-hole championship golf course offers players the finest in golf amenities and ambience. The tournament will be a four person scramble with a shotgun start. Teams will have at least one trailer manufacturer per foursome. Enjoy lunch or flag down the beverage cart, sponsored by UFP by Dexter and relax. Please remember to wear a collared shirt and no denim. www.NATM.com
Ken Gronbach, KGC Direct, LLC will be the 2015 NATM Convention & Trade Show Keynote Speaker and will host the workshop "Charting the Course Through Demographic Change"
As of Dec. 2, the trade show sold out, and several prospective exhibitors are on the waiting list. NATM is doing everything possible to accommodate those on the waiting list. If you are still interested in exhibiting, please contact Trade Show Director, Monica Johnson (Monica.Johnson@natm.com) as soon as possible. Companies are still contacting NATM about sponsorships. Opportunities are still available and new sponsors are always welcome. To learn more about sponsorship options, please contact Allison Malmstrom (Allison.Malmstrom@natm.com).
January/February 2015
45
2015 Convention & Trade Show
Tracks
2015 ConvenƟon Agenda Tuesday, Feb. 10 Noon – 5:00 p.m.: Golf Tournament - English Turn 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.: Young Professionals Reception Wednesday, Feb. 11 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.: Registration 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.: Board Meeting 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.: Workshop Session 1: Is Green the Right Color for You? Technical Forum Workshop Session 1: Fatigue of Welded Connections 11:30 a.m. – 1: 00 p.m.: Trailer Industry Update Luncheon Noon – 6:00 p.m.: Exhibitor Move-In 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.: Introduction to Project Management: Tips and Techniques for Project Success 1:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.: Technical Forum Workshop Session 2: -Listen to the Steel: Learning from Failures -Hydraulics -SAE Trailer Committee Update -Generic Interactive Tongue Weight Spreadsheet 4:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.: Newcomer Orientation 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.: Newcomer Reception 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.: President’s Reception with Special Entertainment Thursday, Feb. 12 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.: Registration 7:30 a.m. – Noon: Exhibitor Move-In 8:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.: Association Awards Breakfast 9:15 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.: Coffee Break 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.: Workshop Session 3: -Charting the Course through Demographic Change -Unlocking the Hidden Cost of Welding 11:15 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.: Annual Membership Meeting & Luncheon 1:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.: Trade Show 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.: Breakout Product Demonstration 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.: Spouse Tour: Mardi Gras Float Tour and Mask Making 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.: Trade Show Reception Friday, Feb. 13 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.: Exhibitor Breakfast 8:00 a.m. – Noon: Registration 8:00 a.m. – Noon: Trade Show 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Committee Meetings 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.: Breakout Product Demonstrations and Door Prizes Noon – 6:00 p.m.: Exhibitor Move-Out 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.: Friday Night Gala - Desi Vega's Steakhouse
46
January/February 2015
www.NATM.com
Save The Date Feb. 11 - 13, 2015
MARDI GRAS IS CALLING 27th Annual NATM Convention & Trade Show New Orleans, LA • Ernest N. Morial Convention Center Hilton New Orleans Riverside
www.NATMConvention.com
We engineer and manufacture industrial coatings that protect your products
and your reputation.
To ďŹ nish your product, there’s no better partner than Hentzen Coatings. Hentzen Coatings is a single-source provider of high-tech liquid and powder coatings, custom engineered by chemists and technical specialists who pursue solutions to corrosion, weatherability, aesthetics and durability. Whether you select a product and color from our stock program or a custom coating technically matched to your needs, look to the Hentzen team for responsive solutions. Hentzen.com | 414.353.4200
Hentzen Coatings Inc., Corporate Headquarters, 6937 West Mill Road, Milwaukee, WI 53218-1225
NATM Launches Convention App
Tracks
NATM Launches Convention App By: Kendra Fritz, NATM Assistant Director NATM is excited to announce a new mobile app for the convention, to be released mid-January 2015. The app provides a way for NATM to be “greener” while also making information more accessible to attendees. The app, called the "NATM" or "National Association of Trailer Manufacturers" "Convention & Trade Show" depending on your app store, will be native to your device. This means that once downloaded all of the information is saved without the need for internet to access the schedule, workshop information, and the like. Further, the app works on all devices: iPhone, Android, Blackberry, Windows Phone, iPad, Desktop and laptop. Most importantly, the features are meant to aid in networking and planning, ensuring you get the most out of the convention. Schedule The most frequently asked questions NATM staff receive have to do with the convention schedule. With a jam-packed schedule on top of trying to foster working relationships and learn from industry experts, it is difficult to keep up with what is going on. The app will feature the most up-to-date agenda with times and location, color coded by different “tracks”: general, trade show, educational, technical. Attendees can then create their own schedule, choosing events and workshops to attend and set reminders so as not to miss out. Handouts will also be attached to events and speaker information will also be available – everything in one easy to find place. Exhibitor Lists With more than 200 booth spaces, both suppliers and trailer manufacturers will benefit from the exhibitor feature. All exhibiting companies will have a clickable listing that takes the customer to a profile filled with content uploaded by the exhibitor. This is just one opportunity to list new products, contact information and more. This same profile will also list booth information and link to the interactive trade show map so that booths can be easily located with a pin. Manufacturers will also be able to bookmark the exhibitor booths they want to visit. Interactive Maps On top of the above mentioned trade show floor map, which can be scrolled over to determine which company occupies 50
January/February 2015
which booth, area maps and convention center maps will also be available. Finding workshops, luncheons and events within the convention center will be easier than ever before. A map of the New Orleans area will pinpoint the location of the hotel, convention center, golf course, spouse tour and Friday Night Gala. With maps attendee fingertips, navigation will be a breeze. Attendee Networking As attendees arrive they can check-in using the app and see who else has arrived. But first, attendees need to create profiles. One time-saving feature is the seamless integration with LinkedIn. The app will pull the information from LinkedIn into the format needed for the app including your photo. This profile can then be shared with other attendees who have checked in. It’s like a green business card, or an alternative if you forget your business cards in your room. Attendees can also message each other through the app. Networking and communicating all in one place. Sponsorship Opportunities The app boasts numerous locations for clickable sponsor logos to be placed, taking customers to their website or exhibitor profile. These opportunities include splash screens and mobile banners that scroll as attendees use the app. Notifications While attendees can set their own reminders, NATM can also send reminders to all app users about upcoming events, giveaways and any other pertinent notifications. Surveys All evaluations for trade show, workshops and events will also be available through the app. This saves paper and provides real time data collection that NATM staff can use to improve the convention right away, for example, setting up new microphones or adjusting the temperature in the room. As NATM prepares to launch this new app, there will be emails and information on the website as well as a webinar prior to the convention and on-site help. However, Crowd Compass, the maker of the app, also offers 24 hour support on weekdays and 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. ET support on weekends. www.NATM.com
2015 Convention & Trade Show Sponsors
Tracks
2015 Convention & Trade Show Sponsors Based on contracts received as of December 16, 2014
www.NATM.com
January/February 2015
51
#VZ ZPVS NPVOUFE BTTFNCMJFT GSPN UIF DPNQBOZ UIBU TUBSUFE JU BMM
1st in Service
'"9
Commerce, Texas
XXX USBJMTUBSUJSFXIFFM DPN FNBJM USBJMTUBS!FNCBSRNBJM DPN
What you want - When you want it! :H FRPELQH WKH EHVW FXVWRPHU VHUYLFH ZLWK WKH EHVW SURGXFW DQG D ILOO UDWH WKH KLJKHVW LQ WKH EXVLQHVV ST Radial Tires
ST Bias Tires
G
Implement Tires
7KH PRVW Uequested tire & ZKHHO DVVHPEOLHV LQ WKH LQGXVWU\ From 10� through 24.5� in stock -buy one tire or a truckload
National Association of Trailer Manufacturers member
TRAILSTAR LLC, 10716 HWY 224, COMMERCE, TX 75428 (903) 886-4067 FAX (903) 886-4768
Taking Ownership of Your Workers' Comp Program
Tracks
Taking Ownership of Your Workers' Comp Program by John Kerr, Marsh & McLennan Agency Effective management of your workers’ compensation program can lead to multiple benefits, including a decrease in lost-time claims, reduced frequency of claims, a lower experience modification rating, and ultimately, lower workers’ compensation premiums. Most of my articles have focused on ways in which you can proactively manage your risk management process. All too often, employers are quick to release full control of the claims process to the insurance carrier, who may have conflicting interests. “Often it is not the medical To truly own the process condition that keeps an and reap the benefits, you injured employee out of must maintain control work, but the relationship, of the process, and the or lack of relationship, best way to do that is with the employer or to consistently follow a immediate supervisor! ." written claim policy. If you -John Kerr don’t have one or want Marsh & Mclennan Agency to refresh yours, here are some things to consider: Complete a First Report of Injury (FROI) form The injured worker’s supervisor or human resource manager should do this immediately. It is especially vital to complete a timely and thorough accident investigation, including witness’s statements, if any. The accident investigation should result in a detailed description of the accident, analysis of the cause and corrective actions to take to avoid similar accidents in the future. This document establishes the facts about the claim and businesses are smart to gather that information as quickly as possible as the “facts” get lost with the passing of time. Ensure the employee is receiving appropriate medical care If possible, provide the injured employee with a detailed job description, your available light-duty accommodations and a Return-To-Work-Authorization form to give the medical provider. The job description helps the medical
54
January/February 2015
provider understand job specifics so any applicable work restrictions will be tailored to the position. The light-duty accommodations or your Return-To-Work program details give the provider knowledge so that a release to return to work with restrictions may be more readily made and the injury will more likely result in no lost time. The best case scenario is to have a member of your management team accompany the injured employee on their medical visit and deliver the documents to the health care provider in person. Provide meaningful light-duty work when an employee returns This is important for a recovering employee and a positive approach to improving the employee’s well-being. Remember, though, that light-duty accommodation should not become a permanent solution. Monitor and apply transitional work consistently Open, honest and ongoing communication will resolve many problems; therefore, it is beneficial to communicate regularly with the injured employee with a caring attitude about their recovery, restrictions, light-duty position and follow-up appointments. Besides helping you better manage the claim, this can also boost an injured employee’s morale. Often it is not the medical condition that keeps an injured employee out of work, but the relationship, or lack of relationship, with the employer or immediate supervisor! Thus, demonstrating concern and care for the injured employee and their health is critical. Document transitional work performed To ensure that the injured employee is working within the restrictions provided by the medical doctor, you may consider creating a document that both the injured employee and supervisor sign off on at the end of the shift stating that the work was within the provided restrictions. If an injured worker is found to be inadequate in the temporary role, discuss the importance of the work restrictions and commence disciplinary actions if www.NATM.com
Taking Ownership of Your Workers' Comp Program
Tracks
disobedience persists. Warnings will help justify the corrective action if they are not heeded. Remember it is critical to document all actions. Build relationships and communicate directly with health care providers You may invite the treating doctors to your facility and give them a tour so they can better understand your work processes. When an injured employee remains authorized off work for an extended period of time, this direct communication and relationship can be especially helpful because you and the health care provider can better work together to improve the worker’s health. Unless your health care provider has toured your operation first hand and understands what is required of your workers and your light-duty-return-to-work program, you can be certain that work recommendations and restrictions prescribed by the treating health care provider will not be in sync with your efforts to accommodate injured workers. Ultimately, you will experience longer durations of loss time claims if your health care provider
www.NATM.com
operates without first-hand knowledge of your operations and expectations.
Although the Workers’ Compensation claims process can be frustrating and complicated at times, you can always rely on the expert knowledge of your insurance carrier and/or agent for assistance and advice. Moreover, as self-management of your claims process continues, measure the successes and failures, and adjust your procedure as necessary. Eventually, the benefits of taking ownership of the claims process will become evident. Content provided in conjunction with Marsh & McLennan Agency’s Claims Consultant, Cassandra Rudy. http://www.rjfagencies.com/Blog/ TakingOwnershipofYourWorkersCompensationProgram.aspx For more information, contact the claims department at Marsh & McLennan Agency at (800) 444 -3033.
January/February 2015
55
Prospecting Isn't an Event; It's a Campaign
Tracks
Prospecting Isn't an Event; It's a Campaign By Marc Wayshak, author of Game Plan Selling and Breaking All Barriers Bill is responsible for sales at his company and considers himself a tenacious worker. Whenever he discovers a new prospect, he enters him or her into the system. From there, he will attempt to contact that person by phone, through email and even via office visit if possible. However, after a number of failed attempts, Bill is likely to toss the person into the sea of dead prospects. Does this sound familiar at all to you? This is the typical approach to prospecting. Besides being disorganized and tedious, the process yields less than stellar results because it inhibits prospects from becoming familiar with the salesperson’s organization. Instead of adopting the common haphazard approach to prospecting, it’s time to think of every outreach effort as part of a larger campaign to engage prospects. Meet Laura. Before implementing the campaign approach, she employed a strategy similar to Bill’s, usually attempting to reach prospects seven or so times before giving up. Now, she uses the campaign approach to reach prospects. Here is what her new process looks like: Identify: Once she identifies a prospect, she adds him or her to her CRM system along with all the relevant information she can find. Outreach 1: She attempts to call the prospect. In the likely event that she doesn’t reach the prospect, she leaves a message saying that she is going to send over a letter with best practice case studies that highlight how she could add value to the prospect’s organization. She reiterates this information in an email. Send Letter 1: She sends a letter containing best practice case studies. Follow up on Letter: She now attempts to contact the prospect at different times of the day over the course of a week or two without leaving a voicemail. Announce Package: She leaves a voicemail and email explaining that the prospect will be receiving a package with some ideas for a new program.
56
January/February 2015
Send Package: She sends a big package with more high-value ideas to help the prospect. Follow Up on Package… Send Letter two… Follow Up on Letter… And so on… She uses this same campaign for each new prospect. Yes, it is more labor-intensive than the haphazard approach, but it slowly builds a connection with the prospect even in the very likely event that she can’t get through. Of course, if she does connect with the prospect, she simply references the last letter or package sent and then goes into her call script. Here are a few key techniques from Laura’s process that can translate into a successful prospecting campaign for any salesperson: Create multiple steps Plan out ahead of time what your campaign will look like and what you will send to the prospect at each step. Make sure that everything you send over is of actual value to the prospect. Brochures don’t cut it! Instead, create 3-5 different pieces to send the prospect, which can each serve as a legitimate reason to connect. Even in the event that you don’t hear back after step 2, you are still slowly making yourself known to the prospect, which makes him that much more likely to take your call the next time. Call and email in between steps Since you’ve sent something of value to the prospect, you now want to follow up to learn what matters most to her. The goal of any campaign is to simply get through to the prospect. By having a consistent process, you simply follow directions and let the campaign do the real work. As soon as you actually reach the prospect, you start the selling process.
www.NATM.com
Prospecting Isn't an Event; It's a Campaign
Tracks
Warm them up with personal touches
About the Author:
People still open mail, especially when it’s personal, so don’t just send boilerplate letters and packages to prospects. Make them personal with handwritten notes and individualized gestures. One step in your campaign could be to send a letter with a business article that may be highly relevant to the prospect based on his current situation. The key is to show that you’ve done your homework and see the prospect as more than just a number.
Marc Wayshak is the bestselling author of two books on sales and leadership, Game Plan Selling and Breaking All Barriers, as well as a regular contributor for Fast Company, Entrepreneur Magazine and the Huffington Post Business section. As a sales strategist, Marc created the Game Plan Selling System to revolutionize the way salespeople, entrepreneurs and companies approach selling. Marc’s sales strategy is based upon his experiences as an All-American athlete, Ivy League graduate, startup entrepreneur and years of research, training and selling.
Remember, developing a prospecting campaign can be a bit of work up front, but once you have it laid out, all you have to do is follow the steps. By taking every prospect through this same campaign, you slowly build connections in a world where it is increasingly difficult to get through the barrage of voicemail, gatekeepers, and other barriers. So give it a shot. Lay out your campaign, and take your next series of prospects through the steps. The more prospects you have in a particular campaign, the easier it is to implement a systematic approach.
He holds an MBA from the University of Oxford and a BA from Harvard University. Get his free eBook on 25 Tips to Crush Your Sales Goal at GamePlanSelling.com. You can call him at (617) 203-2171 or email him at Info@MarcWayshak.com.
I am
best riend. her
f
LOWEST COST, BOTTOM LINE LINE... E.. ... With unprecedented durability and features that clearly out-perform other wood and materials, Rumber products result in less down-time, fewer and lower replacement costs and extended life. Bottom Line - Rumber Beats Lumber! 877.Rumber1 Toll Free
www.NATM.com
Proud Member:
www.Rumber.com
January/February 2015
57
YOU’VE HEARD
THE RUMORS INTRO D UC IN G
HIGH SPEED WITHOUT HYDRAULICS 12,000 lb. JACK COMPARE TO HYDRAULIC JACKS FASTER Proprietary design is faster at comparable loads MORE POWERFUL Superior speed and performance EASIER TO INSTALL Bolt-on assembly mounts in minutes SIMPLER Requires no welding, messy hydraulic oil, hoses, or pump
WWW.BULLDOGPRODUCTS.NET ISO 9000 C CERTIFIED
©2014 Cequent™ Performance Products MKG1540
NATM Member News
Tracks B&W Trailer Hitches “Quietly” Unveils New Patriot 16K RailMounted Fifth Wheel Slider Hitch at 2014 SEMA Precision engineering techniques and tight manufacturing tolerances allow B&W Trailer Hitches’ new Patriot 16K fifth wheel slider to deliver a quieter, more stress-free towing experience. Humboldt, Kan. — B&W Trailer Hitches, a leading U.S.-based manufacturer of heavy-duty, engineered trailer hitches and aftermarket truck/trailer accessories, announced that it will introduce its new 16,000-pound Patriot rail-mounted fifth wheel slider hitch at the 2014 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. The innovative Patriot 16K RVK3270 hitch will be shown to the industry for the first time in B&W’s booth (30171) in the Upper South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The versatile new 16,000-pound Patriot rail-mounted slider complements B&W’s full line of hitches and is built to exacting specifications for smooth, flawless and virtually inaudible operation. Unlocking the slider hitch is made effortless, even on irregular terrain, via the locking mechanism’s gear-reduced cam ratio design, which gives the user mechanical advantage. The Patriot’s two, solid one-inch tubular steel carriage rails are designed with sturdy center supports that prevent the rails from deforming or binding as a result of flexing under load. Hourglassshaped rollers convey the carriage mechanism with fluid motion, regardless of topography. Once unlocked, the hitch is free to slide back into its maneuvering position and afterward, it glides up to its locked position just in front of the rear axle. “Traditional slider hitches are known to make a bit of noise, and this can be disconcerting to some operators,” Don Collins, president, DC’s RV Centers, said. “With its precise fittings and smooth, quiet operation, B&W’s Patriot 16K slider will enhance the end-user’s towing experience.” B&W’s new Patriot 16K slider hitch accommodates 12 inches of slide and is perfect for popular short-bed pickup trucks that allow less travel distance to the cab. Vertical adjustments can be made from 17 inches to 19 inches, allowing 60
January/February 2015
ample clearance for taller truck-bed walls. The Patriot 16K slider will fit on all industry standard mounting rails.
Cargo Towing Solutions has appointed Galen Seidner as their National Sales Manager
The Patriot 16K slider makes it easy to engage and disengage a trailer, as well. Thanks to its cam-lock design and threequarter-inch-thick wrap-around jaws, an operator can couple or uncouple any trailer, regardless of the lay of the land. Pivot arms feature tough polyurethane bushings that allow the engaged coupler head to pivot smoothly, and the fully articulating head is cushioned by an integrated leaf spring.
Galen brings over twenty years of experience in sales and trailer manufacturing. In his new position, Seidner will be responsible for growing the company’s sales of electric/hydraulic and electric brake actuators for trailers and will assist in the development of new products.
“The Patriot 16K rail-mounted fifth wheel slider hitch is an American-made alternative to the offshore-manufactured slider hitches that have proliferated in recent years,” Travis McCall, product engineer for B&W Trailer Hitches, said. “Our hitch is engineered to operate as a finely tuned system, and we think users will be very impressed with the fit, finish, operation and overall ergonomics of our newest hitch design.” B&W’s new Patriot rail-mounted slider is made of top-quality, American AISI 1018 steel and is powder coated for a tough, durable finish. The 16K Patriot RVK3270 rail-mounted fifth wheel slider hitch has been tested and meets or exceeds the J2638 standard for a 16,000-pound vehicle tow rating (VTR). As in any towing scenario, B&W strongly recommends that users never exceed the Patriot 16K slider’s VTR. B&W Trailer Hitches specializes in designing and engineering trailer hitches and aftermarket truck/trailer accessories, and is proud of its reputation as an exceptional U.S.-based manufacturer and innovator. The company’s workforce makes all of its products entirely in Humboldt, Kan. The Patriot 16K RVK3270 rail-mounted fifth wheel slider hitch can be purchased through members of B&W’s extensive dealer network and a dealer locator is available at: http://www.Turnoverball. com/find-a-dealer To access high-resolution images of B&W’s Patriot 16K RVK3270 railmounted fifth wheel slider hitch, please visit: http://www.turnoverball.com/media
Dexter Axle Acquires the North American Assets of AL-KO Axis, Inc. Dexter Axle, a leading manufacturer of trailer axles, brakes and hubs & drums for over 50 years, announced that it has acquired the North American assets of AL-KO Axis, Inc. AL-KO Axis is a manufacturer of axles and other components for trailers and towable equipment in the utility, recreational vehicle, heavy duty, manufactured housing, agricultural, marine, and specialty markets. As part of the transaction, the AL-KO Kober Group will become a shareholder in Dexter Axle, and Stefan Kober will join the Board of Directors of Dexter Axle. “We are thrilled by this acquisition and the positive impact it will have on our combined customer base,” said Adam Dexter, President and CEO of Dexter Axle. “The addition of the AL-KO people, products and facilities will help us continue to provide the highest level of customer service available in the market place.” Stefan Kober, CEO of the AL-KO Kober Group stated, “Over my time in the axle industry, I have recognized the similarities in AL-KO’s and Dexter’s business principles of striving for on-time and complete delivery, producing high quality products, and offering superior customer service. I believe that our customers and employees will appreciate the additional resources that Dexter will bring to this pursuit.” Dexter products are American made in highly automated facilities in Indiana, Georgia, Oklahoma, California and Tennessee with distribution throughout North America and several other countries. AL-KO Axis has locations in Elkhart, Indiana; Shawnee, Oklahoma; La Grande, Oregon; Tifton, Georgia; Ward,
www.NATM.com
NATM Member News
Tracks Arkansas; Rock Hill, South Carolina, and Ankeny, Iowa. “We have begun to implement plans to utilize our combined capabilities to offer our customers the best service and most comprehensive product line in the industry,” Adam Dexter continued. “We look forward to working with the ALKO Axis management team through a successful transition.” Dexter Axle is majority owned by a fund managed by The Sterling Group, a leading private equity firm based in Houston, Texas with over $1 billion of assets under management. Dexter Axle has been a leading manufacturer of trailer axles and trailer brakes for over 50 years for the utility trailer, recreational vehicle, heavy duty, manufactured housing, agricultural, marine, and specialty trailer markets. Dexter products are American made in highly automated facilities in Indiana, Georgia, Oklahoma, California, and Tennessee. Since 1960, OEMs have installed more than 45 million Dexter Axles with the assurance that they are providing a quality product that will enhance the safe operation of their trailers. Dexter Axle is ISO 9001 certified. For more information, visit www.dexteraxle.com.
Felling Trailers, Inc. Announces Personnel Changes Sauk Centre, Minn.— Felling Trailers Inc. recently announced a few personnel changes. Nathan Uphus who was an Inside Trailer Sales Coordinator is now Felling Trailers Southeast Territory Manager. Nathan started in final assembly at Felling Trailers 16 years ago. “Nathan is a wonderful asset to the Felling Trailers team,” said Patrick Jennissen, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Felling Trailers. “We look forward to his success in his new role.” Jake Meyer who was Trailer Parts Sales Coordinator is now an Inside Trailer Sales Coordinator, and Travis Graves who was a Team Lead in Final Assembly is now Trailer Parts Sales Coordinator. “Jake and Travis are great additions to our sales team,” stated Jennissen. “They have both proven to be valuable team members, and we look forward to their continued growth.”
www.NATM.com
For more information, visit www.felling.com or call (800) 245-2809. About Felling Trailers, Inc. Felling Trailers is a family owned and operated full line trailer manufacturer located in Central Minnesota that was started in 1974 by Mr. Merle J. Felling. Felling Trailers, Inc. has grown from a small shop to a factory and office complex that today covers over 250,000 square feet. Felling Trailers currently manufactures over 3,500 trailers a year ranging from a 3,000 lb utility trailer to a 120,000 lb hydraulic gooseneck trailer, and its standard trailer line includes over 220 models. Felling’s pride and differentiation is its customized trailer division. Their engineers utilize the latest industry leading design techniques along with their experienced metal craftsmen and cutting edge technology to turn its customers’ conceptual trailer needs into a tangible product. Felling Trailers’ current capabilities allows them to provide a high quality product that is distributed across North America and internationally. For more information, you can visit them on the web at www.felling.com, or follow them on twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest.
Rugby Announces New Inside Sales Team Member Rugby, ND — Rugby Manufacturing is pleased to welcome Keri Pedersen to the Rugby Inside Sales Team. Pedersen will be responsible for working directly with Rugby Distributors on quoting, parts and other Distributor needs. “We are excited and pleased to have Keri join our Rugby team,” said Ray Salley, Rugby Manufacturing’s General Manager. “Her education and previous experience make her a tremendous asset to our Rugby team.” Prior to joining Rugby, Pedersen worked in customer service, healthcare and accounting. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Mayville State University. Rugby Manufacturing is the leading designer and manufacturer of Class 3–7 dump bodies, landscape bodies, platforms and related truck equipment & accessories.
Optronics Expands North American Operations with Large, Strategically Located Distribution Facility in Goshen New 90,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art facility is one of four in North America and allows Optronics to better serve growing RV industry and eastern vehicle markets with greater speed and efficiency. Tulsa, Okla.,— Optronics International, America’s largest offshore vehicle lighting manufacturer, announced its expansion and relocation to a large new facility in Goshen, Ind. The geographic move from nearby Elkhart, Ind., puts Optronics in close physical proximity to many of the RV and trailer manufacturers it serves, while substantially boosting its capabilities and distribution capacity in North America’s eastern region. “The new Goshen facility significantly expands our distribution reach, speed and efficiency,” Brett Johnson, president and CEO of Optronics International, said. “Our already short lead times will become even shorter, reducing customers’ exposure to out-of-stock situations and enhancing service to the eastern U.S.” In fact, with its headquarters in Tulsa, Okla., a manufacturing facility in Muskogee, Okla., and satellite distribution facilities in Elkhart, Ind., and Toronto, Canada, Optronics has a larger distribution footprint than any other U.S. vehicle lighting manufacturer. Optronics’ diverse locations help it serve an equally diverse customer base, including heavyduty vehicles of all types; light-, mediumand heavy-duty trailers; recreational vehicles; transit vehicles and a variety of agricultural and marine vehicles. “We have North America covered and then some,” Johnson said. “With Goshen coming online, we are particularly well positioned to continue to handle the double-digit growth we’ve been enjoying, and our capacity to take customer spikes in manufacturing and retail sales in stride has never been better.” Optronics continues to gain market share, particularly in HD, work truck and RV markets, and attributes much of its ongoing success to the company’s customer-centered, can-do culture of listening and rapidly responding to needs with high-quality products that are realistically priced.
January/February 2015
61
NATM Member News
Tracks
Optronics products are available nationwide through its extensive distribution network of more than 12,000 convenient distribution locations. Users can access individual Optronics distributor websites by simply clicking on their logo icons. About Optronics As America’s largest offshore vehicle lighting manufacturer, Optronics is a trustworthy, high-quality, widely available alternative to domestic lighting manufacturers and import houses. Founded in 1972, Optronics International is a premier worldwide manufacturer and supplier of branded industrial and commercial vehicular safety lighting products. The company specializes in interior and exterior LED, incandescent and fluorescent lighting for the marine, RV, trailer, HD and transit vehicle markets. The Optronics product catalog is among the most extensive in the industry. Optronics is headquartered in Tulsa, Okla., with manufacturing facilities in Annan District, Tainan, Taiwan, and Muskogee, Okla., U.S.A. The company has distribution facilities in Goshen, Ind. and Ontario, Canada.
PPG Launches DELFLEET® Evolution High-Solids Epoxy Primers Strongsville, Ohio— PPG Commercial Coatings has introduced DELFLEET® Evolution F4935, F4936 and F4937 HS Epoxy Primers, a new series of high-solids, 2.1 VOC primers with performance features that include excellent adhesion and corrosion resistance over many different substrates. The new epoxy primers are identified as F4935 white, F4936 gray and F4937 black and are combined with Delfleet Evolution F4938 HS Epoxy Primer Hardener in a simple 1:1 mix ratio. With a VOC level of 2.1 lbs./gal., the primers meet current requirements in key regulated (compliant) U.S. markets as well as Canada. “These are extremely versatile epoxy primers that should be very attractive to the builder market,” said J.J. Wirth, PPG brand manager, fleet segments. “We expect customers to be pleased with how well these primers perform, particularly since they can be applied over a wide range of commercial surfaces including steel, galvaneal, galvanized, stainless 62
January/February 2015
steel, aluminum, fiber glass and OEM finishes.” Wirth adds that the new primers offer good vertical hang and film build properties with application versatility. They can be topcoated directly as primer sealers or, with additional coats, easily sanded as primer surfacers increasing productivity and reducing process steps. Since the primers are available in white, gray and black, they can be used with a broad range of colors as well. PPG Commercial Coatings offers a full range of coating technologies for the commercial transportation and industrial markets, including polyurethanes, alkyds, epoxies, polyurea, waterborne, pretreatment chemicals and powder coatings. PPG Commercial Coatings products are marketed under several brand names including Delfleet Evolution, DELFLEET ESSENTIAL®, Commercial Performance Coatings and AMERCOAT®. To learn more about Delfleet Evolution F4935, F4936 and F4937 HS Epoxy Primers and other PPG Commercial Coatings products, call (800) 647-6050 or visit www.ppgcommercialcoatings.com. PPG Industries’ vision is to continue to be the world’s leading coatings and specialty materials company. Through leadership in innovation, sustainability and color, PPG helps customers in industrial, transportation, consumer products, and construction markets and aftermarkets to enhance more surfaces in more ways than does any other company. Founded in 1883, PPG has global headquarters in Pittsburgh and operates in nearly 70 countries around the world. Reported net sales in 2013 were $15.1 billion. PPG shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: PPG). For more information, visit www.ppg.com and follow @PPGIndustries on Twitter. The PPG logo, Bringing innovation to the surface, Delfleet, Delfleet Essential and Amercoat are registered trademarks of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc.
Truck-Lite Co., Announces Release of New LED Products to its Signal-Stat line
systems, announced the release of 18 new LED products to its Signal-Stat line. The new product expansion can help reduce customer costs while maintaining SignalStat quality standards, including full epoxy potting to protect the circuit board - a feature that no other economy lighting manufacturer offers. "We want to get LED lighting on every truck on the road. In the long run, LEDs have lower costs and require less maintenance, but more importantly, they are safer for everyone on the road. This Signal-Stat expansion makes LED lighting even more accessible," said Bob Ives, Executive Vice President of Business Development. The expansion comes in the form of two additional lines - integral flange and low diode - with products in the Marker and Clearance, Stop/Turn/Tail, Front/Park/ Turn, and Back-Up lighting categories. The integral flange expansion includes 10 part numbers that bring additional housing and mounting options to the Signal-Stat line, adding a molded polycarbonate flange and housing to existing light designs. The low diode expansion line, with 8 new products, is engineered with fewer LEDs, reducing costs and providing customer savings. "As LEDs become more commonplace, the market has demanded options. Customization is the future of the industry. Every driver has a different truck; every truck uses a different lighting setup. We are engineering - and will continue to engineer - options." said Brian Kupchella, CEO of Truck-Lite.
USA Harness Hires Neil Robertson USA Harness recently announced the addition of Neil Robertson to the position of Sales Engineer. Neil has 30 years of experience within the trailer industry, most recently serving as Director of Research and Development at Fontaine Heavy-Haul. He formed his own trailer company in Glasgow, Scotland prior to becoming a Global Specialist for Cottrell Corp. For more information about USA Harness, visit USAHarness.com.
December 2014, Falconer, NY - TruckLite Co., LLC, a worldwide leader in heavy-duty lighting and visibility www.NATM.com
Aluminum 3/4-inch Lockrods
Unique trailer products in 3 options! Fabricating lockrods from miscellaneous parts or kits? Start saving time and costly labor with our complete custom manufactured 3/4-inch aluminum lockrod program. We offer three unique purchasing options.
PROPER TIMING Factory controlled specifications maintain smooth operation.
6061 GRADE ALUMINUM All components and tubing are Schedule 80, 6061, T6 Grade. Assures strong welds with no porosity at the weld points.
3
SNAP-IN ACETAL BEARINGS Assures smooth, consistent operation. Eliminates galvanic corrosion between metals, which commonly occurs with conventional mounting systems.
ASSEMBLY KIT & TUBING Our lockrod assembly kits include all components needed to build one lockrod (Tubing sold separately).
1 2
CUSTOM MANUFACTURED Factory-assembled lockrod built to your exact length specifications with both cams and riveted handle assembly factory-welded. Just add mounting hardware.
TOP END LOOSE Manufactured lockrod with bottom cam and riveted handle assembly factorywelded in place. Simply cut length to fit, weld-on top cam and mount with hardware kit.
FORGED ALUMINUM CAMS Provide superior strength unlike cast cams, which are prone to breaking and cracking.
For more information or to locate your nearest distributor, visit Powerbrace.com POWERBRACE Corporation®
7640 60th Avenue, Kenosha, WI 53142 P 262 694 3202 F 262 694 8367 Powerbrace.com
NATM New Member Update
Tracks
Associate Avery Dennison 7542 N Natcher Ave Niles, IL 60714 (877) 214-0909 www.reflectives.dennisonavery.com • Labels/Decals/Nameplates, Reflectivity, Tapes
Boar Wheel Co. 27689 US Highway 385 Hot Springs, SD 57747 (605) 745-4722 www.boarwheel.com • Wheels/Rims
Chameleon Innovations 115 Hymus Blvd Pointe Claire, QC H9R1E5 Canada (514) 695-3382 www.chameleon.ca • Cargo Control
Enviroseal TN, LLC 8665 Highway 22 S Lexington, TN 38351 (731) 249-9365 www.envirosealtn.com • Batteries/Accessories, Cleaners/ Chemicals, Safety Devices, Sealants, Tires, Wheels/Rims
Fontaine Parts Connection 7574 Commerce Cir Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 661-4900 www.fifthwheel.com • Couplers, Towing Accessories, Wire Harness
The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. One Hartford Plaza Hartford, CT 06155 (800) 533-7824 www.thehartford.com/businessinsurance/specialized-truck-equipment • Insurance
Branch Associate Austin Hardware & Supply, Inc. 1001 Rockland St Reading, PA 19604 (816) 246-2800 www.austinhardware.com • Alarms, Aluminum/Extrusions, Cargo Control, Castings, Chains, Consulting, Doors/Ramps, Electrical/Lighting, Engineering, Fabricated Parts, Fasteners, Fenders, Gaskets/Seals, Hardware Jacks, Labels/Decals/Nameplates, Living Quarter Accessories, Locks, Mats/Floor Coverings, Paints/Coatings, Reflectivity, Rubber Products, Safety Devices, Sales/ Marketing, Sealants, Tapes, Windows/ Vents, Wire Harness
Austin Hardware & Supply, Inc. 3323 Grapevine St Mira Loma, CA 91752 (816) 246-2800 www.austinhardware.com • Alarms, Aluminum/Extrusions, Cargo Control, Castings, Chains, Consulting, Doors/Ramps, Electrical/Lighting, Engineering, Fabricated Parts, Fasteners, Fenders, Gaskets/Seals, Hardware Jacks, Labels/Decals/Nameplates, Living Quarter Accessories, Locks, Mats/Floor Coverings, Paints/Coatings, Reflectivity, Rubber Products, Safety Devices, Sales/ Marketing, Sealants, Tapes, Windows/ Vents, Wire Harness
Austin Hardware & Supply, Inc. 52900 Harman Dr Elkhart, IN 46514 (816) 246-2800 www.austinhardware.com • Alarms, Aluminum/Extrusions, Cargo Control, Castings, Chains, Consulting, Doors/Ramps, Electrical/Lighting, Engineering, Fabricated Parts, Fasteners, Fenders, Gaskets/Seals, Hardware Jacks, Labels/Decals/Nameplates, Living Quarter Accessories, Locks, Mats/Floor Coverings, Paints/Coatings, Reflectivity, Rubber Products, Safety Devices, Sales/ Marketing, Sealants, Tapes, Windows/ Vents, Wire Harness
Austin Hardware & Supply, Inc. Miller Products Company 1015 N Main St Osceola, IA 50213 (641) 342-2103 www.millerproducts.com • Fabricated Parts, Fasteners, Hardware
64
January/February 2015
Doors/Ramps, Electrical/Lighting, Engineering, Fabricated Parts, Fasteners, Fenders, Gaskets/Seals, Hardware Jacks, Labels/Decals/Nameplates, Living Quarter Accessories, Locks, Mats/Floor Coverings, Paints/Coatings, Reflectivity, Rubber Products, Safety Devices, Sales/ Marketing, Sealants, Tapes, Windows/ Vents, Wire Harness
Austin Hardware & Supply, Inc. 1810 Satellite Blvd Buford, GA 30518 (816) 246-2800 www.austinhardware.com • Alarms, Aluminum/Extrusions, Cargo Control, Castings, Chains, Consulting, Doors/Ramps, Electrical/Lighting, Engineering, Fabricated Parts, Fasteners, Fenders, Gaskets/Seals, Hardware Jacks, Labels/Decals/Nameplates, Living Quarter Accessories, Locks, Mats/Floor Coverings, Paints/Coatings, Reflectivity, Rubber Products, Safety Devices, Sales/ Marketing, Sealants, Tapes, Windows/ Vents, Wire Harness
Regular Arising Industries, Inc. Fitzgerald 200 Ed Ward Rd Fitzgerald, GA 31750 (229) 409-0872 • Auto Hauler, Cargo, Concession, Motorcycle
Moritz International, Inc. 665 N Main St Mansfield, OH 44902 (419) 526-5222 www.moritzint.com • Dump, Equipment, Horse, Livestock, Utility/Flatbed
Pinnacle Power Services, Inc. 1172 Railroad Ave Vallejo, CA 94592 (707) 656-6358 • Pole/Pipe/Cable Reel, Portable Equipment, Utility/Flatbed
581 County Rd A Ste C Hudson, WI 54016 (816) 246-2800 www.austinhardware.com • Alarms, Aluminum/Extrusions, Cargo Control, Castings, Chains, Consulting, www.NATM.com
FOR CHALLENGING APPLICATIONS
LICATIONS NGING APP FOR CHALLE
LPC Gas Springs are available in both Black Nitride and Stainless Steel all at factory pricing and a large inventory is in stock for immediate shipment.
LK, TAPES, CAU LS, FOAM COATINGS TRIMS, SEA INDUSTRIAL SEALANTS,
INNOVATIVE
PVC Foam and High Bond Tapes: !S THE EXCLUSIVE distributor of Gaska 4APE PRODUCTS WE OFFER HIGH density foam tapes, Hi-Bond tapes, vinyl glazing tape, and polyethylene foam tapes at competitive prices.
Since 1969 ,A6ANTURE 0RODUCTS #OMPANY HAS BEEN providing customers with the highest quality products to meet the challenging applications of today’s competitive markets. LaVanture offers products to meet the needs of custom applications in the industry.
PRODUCTS
All of these have passed our rigid quality standards. If we sell it... we stand behind it!!!
Call for our new catalogs.
New LaVanture Line of Sealants: LaVanture Products is proud to announce our new sealant line including great quality products including, MS Polymers, Silicones and many others. We have partnered with a quality manufacturer to provide a great product at a great price.
Conspicuity Tapes: We are a national distributor for 3M $ / 4 $IAMOND 'RADE #ONSPICUITY 4APE
LaVanture Products | Post OfďŹ ce Box 2088 Elkhart, IN 46515-2088 | E-mail: sales@lavanture.com Phone: 800-348-7625 | Fax: 800-348-7629 www.lavanture.com | www.conspicuity.com
Applications: s 4OOL "OXES s $OOR AND Window Seals s 4RUCK #APS AND 4ONNEAU #OVERS s 4RUCK "ODIES s Made #ARGO 4RAILERS in the USA s 5TILITY "OXES s &IBERGLASS $OORS s 7ORK 4RUCK $OORS s -ARINE s 2ECREATIONAL 6EHICLES s 2OOF 3EALANT We also stock complete lines of high quality EPDM Seals, Trim Seals, Edge Trims, Butyl Tapes, Caulks and Sealants.