PRODUCT FOCUS

■ Optimize Lifting Operations with 3D Lift Plan

Steven Beemsterboer, a Project Manager for Metropolitan Steel, was the First-Place winner for his lift plans of an ongoing project for the Chicago Department of Transportation. The company is erecting the steel for Damen Greenline Station, a rapid transit station, expected to open in 2024.

“For us, 3D Lift Plan has been a game-changing solution for three-dimensional crane modeling. It was invaluable for navigating this difficult project and transformed the way we approach crane operations, revolutionizing our workflow and driving unprecedented efficiency,” said Beemsterboer, who is a Level 3 Certified Expert user of the program.

“By leveraging 3D Lift Plan, we can now create meticulously detailed lift plans to scale, allowing us to make cost-effective decisions that save both time and money. With the ability to select the ideal crane model and determine the correct capacities for each specific job, we can confidently optimize our lifting operations. On this specific project, we had many twists and turns requiring us to change crane models, location of the crane, rigging, and more,” added Beemsterboer.

■ Magni Announces High Capacity Fixed Boom Telehandler

■ Eight New Grinders from Makita

Makita U.S.A. has released eight new grinders for a wide range of applications. The release includes five 5-inch grinders and three 4 1-/2-inch grinders. The GA45 series and GA50 series feature Makita’s exclusive SJS™II Technology, a mechanical gear drive system that helps prevent motor and gear damage by dampening the force and releasing the gears when the wheel is forced to stop. Since it’s mechanical (not electronic), it does not require a restart after the wheel binds. Another key advantage is lower vibration for increased operator comfort during extended use.

■ Cordless Stud Fusion from Hilti

Hilti North America recently released the FX 3-A Cordless stud fusion system to help revolutionize fastening on steel. The cordless stud fusion is up to 75 percent faster than traditional welding methods and is a fully mobile and autonomous system with no power cables needed. With virtually no sparks, splatters, fumes, and no angle grinder needed for the surface preparation, this fastening method helps shield users from heat and gas. Additionally, the Active Fusion Indicator (AFI) gives the installer systematic real-time feedback to help improve the quality of fastening.

■ Change the Way You Hire

Technical skills are important when hiring, but so are soft skills. When it comes to communication, engagement, and critical thinking, do you know what to look for when interviewing to make sure you get someone with the soft skills your team needs? The new book, Hire Better People Faster, co-authored by Ryan Englin and Jeremy Macliver, can help business leaders reduce turnover by more than 130 percent, fill all open job positions within 90 days, and receive 600 percent more applications than competitors. Available now at Walmart, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and more.

■ New Virtual Reality Headset Spark Interest in Welding

Lincoln Electric has added a cutting-edge new product to its education lineup. The Voyage™ Arc Virtual Reality Welding Headset is an interactive, immersive classroom platform that introduces students to welding fundamentals. The tool is designed to spark interest in careers involving welding by enabling techsavvy students to learn in a virtual setting that many of them already enjoy in real life – an amusement park. As they don the Voyage Arc all-in-one headset, students leave the distractions of the classroom behind and are transported to a realistic, virtual amusement park where they are tasked with “welding” park equipment such as a roller coaster, Ferris wheel, sky drop ride or bumper car before earning a virtual ride. •