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Material Handling March 27, 2024

Dan Roberts discusses equipment solutions at Modex 2024

Equipment efficiency and return on investment are vital, and Motion offers a variety of solu...

Material Handling March 25, 2024

Modex 2024 recap: Technology improvements for logistics, material handling applications

Modex 2024 in Atlanta emphasized the need to improve supply chain management and operations with automated technologies that take the dull, dirty and dangerous jobs away from people while still operating efficiently.

By Chris Vavra
Material Handling March 18, 2024

Helping companies and users find the right material handling, conveying solutions

Michael Field of Raymond Corporation discusses how they're working to reach consumers in the material handling and other industries. See video.

By Chris Vavra
Material Handling March 12, 2024

How robots help conveyors in a modern material handling system

Successful integration of robots in conveyance demands a meticulous understanding of manual processes, ensuring ROI and efficient, safe material handling.

By Chris Vavra
Material Handling December 11, 2023

Rehrig Pacific Co. addresses productivity and safety goals

Mobile robots automate material-handling process and improve productivity and safety for their operations.

By Kelly Chalmers
Material Handling November 27, 2023

How an automotive supplier enhanced efficiency and adaptability

A tier one automotive supplier successfully implemented a robotic automation solution, resulting in significant throughput improvement and setting a new standard for future automation projects in the industry.

By L. John Shipley, PE, CAP
Material Handling October 3, 2023

Smart conveyance technology market value will triple by 2027

The smart conveyance technology market is enjoying strong growth and is expected to triple in value to more than $1 billion by 2027.

By Interact Analysis
Material Handling August 10, 2023

Bulk handling system cuts dust, improves accuracy at graphite plant

A graphite and carbon processing plant used a bulk bag filling specialist to reduce dust and other particles escaping in their Netherlands facility

By David Boger
Material Handling August 3, 2023

Best practices to overcome bulk solids material handling challenges

There are several different types of bulk solids material handling equipment available; learn tips and tricks here

By Andy Forrester
Material Handling June 29, 2023

Enhancing storage and retrieval machines for materials handling systems

Automated and flexible materials handling systems can help high-bay warehouses become more useful when it comes to handling and storage space.

By Michael Lippert
Material Handling June 13, 2023

Five ways ergonomic material handling equipment reduces workplace injuries

Investing in proper ergonomic equipment can help reduce the strain on workers’ bodies and prevent injuries.

By Matilda Odell
Material Handling March 28, 2023

How logistics can simplify automation processes and operations management

ProMat’s return after a four-year absence showed a greater emphasis on robotics and how logistics improvements can make automation better in manufacturing facilities.

By Chris Vavra
Material Handling March 13, 2023

Manufacturing orders down almost 20% in January

January manufacturing orders dropped almost 20% from the same period in 2022, but general industry growth is still expected in 2023.

By Christopher Chidzik
Material Handling February 28, 2023

Equipment leasing increases in January

Overall new business volume for January was $8.8 billion, up 6% year-over-year from new business volume in January 2022.

By ELFA
Material Handling January 31, 2023

Smart conveyance market expanding and maturing

The smart conveyance market is small and growing compared to traditional conveyor systems, but manufacturers are taking notice and several big names are entering the market, according to Interact Analysis.

By Tim Dawson
Material Handling December 8, 2022

Engineering excellence achieved with digital weighing technology

Quality finished products begin before raw materials are ever combined

By Mu Gang and Martin Brown
Material Handling May 10, 2022

Five tips for preventing material handling injuries

Improving material handling can reduce costs associated with workplace injuries and labor turnover.

By Luke Goodwin
Material Handling April 7, 2022

10 tips for achieving material handling safety

Making material handling safety a priority will improve the abysmal safety stats the manufacturing and warehousing industries currently have.

By Tim Massey
Material Handling March 18, 2022

Three reasons material handling professionals use propane forklifts

Why electric forklifts aren’t as productive or clean as believed

By Joe Calhoun
Material Handling February 14, 2022

Top 5 Plant Engineering articles Feb. 7-13, 2022

Articles about seven challenges of load movement systems, compressor filtration best practiced delineated, material handling safety tips, and more were Plant Engineering’s five most clicked articles from Feb. 7-13, 2022. Miss something? You can catch up here.

By Keagan Gay
Material Handling February 8, 2022

7 tech-related tips to ensure material handling safety

Technologies and software improvements enable advances in how goods makers manage inventory and space

By Luke Goodwin
Material Handling January 17, 2022

Seven challenges of load movement systems

Every material handling solution has unique characteristics, which underscore the challenge of finding the optimal solution

By Devin Chandler
Material Handling October 29, 2021

Anticorrosion coating sets new benchmark

Rice engineers develop flexible, self-healing material to protect steel from the elements.

By Mike Williams
Material Handling August 17, 2021

Smart conveyors streamline wet wipes packaging challenges

Smart conveying solutions enable high-speed throughput of delicate wet wipes

By Christian Dager
Material Handling May 17, 2021

Top 5 Plant Engineering articles May 10-16, 2021

Articles about how to keep spare part inventories accurate for maintenance departments, what a bad or non-existent maintenance program costs manufacturers, and why commodity casters cause injuries were Plant Engineering’s five most clicked articles from May 10-16, 2021. Miss something? You can catch up here.

By Keagan Gay
Material Handling May 11, 2021

Why commodity casters cause injuries

Commodity casters are workplace injuries waiting to happen

By Eric Hassen
Material Handling April 15, 2021

Seven shortcomings of commodity casters

The right application-specific casters and wheels can help optimize workflow

By Eric Hassen
Material Handling February 9, 2021

Smart, compact electromechanical actuators improve AGV productivity and space efficiency

Integration with AGVs on plant floors increases operational intelligence

By Chad Carlberg
Material Handling October 1, 2020

Fundamentals of forklift safety

Keep employees safe and productive by reinforcing these safety reminders

By Matt McDonald
Material Handling March 4, 2020

Supply chain show releases statement on coronavirus, adds education panel

MODEX 2020 in Atlanta is not being delayed; education panel on COVID-19 related to supply chain has been added for attendees.

By Chris Vavra
Material Handling December 13, 2019

How air casters optimize factory flexibility

Integrated air bearings make it possible to implement a reconfigurable system to improve or supplement manufacturing floor changes.

By Cole Miller, M.E.
Material Handling October 14, 2019

Manufacturing technology orders decline

Manufacturing orders overall declined in August 2019, but there was some growth in the Southeast and Northeast did show increases in their respective regions.

By Association for Manufacturing Technology (AMT)
Material Handling November 2, 2018

Reader forum – 1970-01-01

Cooking oil controversyI am writing regarding the ReaderForum submission, "Consider the codes" (PE, January 2001, p 7).In the part about using cooking oil to stop evaporation of water in traps, the letter's author makes a fundamental logic error in interpreting the plumbing code. I do not have a copy of that code so I am assuming that he quoted all relevant sections accurately in making his de...

By Staff
Material Handling October 30, 2018

Technique developed to join aluminum to steel

Friction stir dovetailing is effective in joining thicker metal structures such as aluminum to steel.

By Dr. Neil Canter, Chemical Solutions
Material Handling October 30, 2018

Mild steel welding: find the right filler

Understand the metal characteristics to make the right choice for steel welding.

By Matt Underwood, Hobart
Material Handling October 4, 2018

Make the right choice on sample preconditioning

Follow the checklist to find the right way to sample and measure gases before it reaches the conditioning system near the analyzer.

By Randy Rieken, Swagelok
Material Handling August 23, 2018

AI and maintenance: Embracing the numbers

Hitachi-Sullair partnership focuses on optimizing repairs.

By Plant Engineering
Material Handling July 2, 2018

Despite tariff fears, PMI jumps 1.5 percentage points

Index hits 60.2% while manufacturers worry about trade war and supply chain issues.

By Bob Vavra, CFE Media
Material Handling June 22, 2018

Strengthen, secure the supply chain

As the modern supply chain gets more sophisticated, it’s important to integrate your data with your suppliers.

By Bob Vavra, CFE Media
Material Handling June 20, 2018

Time for a tougher tablet

Industrial-grade mobile devices are needed for harsh environments to make the most of the data being harvested by the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).

By Chris Ealahan, Teguar Corporation
Material Handling May 29, 2018

Improving product flow in a food manufacturing facility

Improving product flow and reducing inefficiencies such as lack of automation and reducing the potential for injuries is crucial for a food manufacturing facility.

By Jonah Petoskey, Stellar
Material Handling January 22, 2018

Top 5 Plant Engineering articles, Jan. 15-21

Articles about 2018 System Integrator Giants, Maintenance and Safety Digital Report, robots and manufacturing, getting rid of VFD wires, and metal and lubrication interactions were Plant Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, January 15-21. Were you out? You can catch up here.

By Sierra Grayson, CFE Media
Material Handling November 9, 2017

“What is your Torque worth?” webcast: Your questions answered

Baldor's Kyle Verploegen answers questions about motor efficiency that were not addressed during the live webcast.

By Kyle Verploegen, Business Development Manager Small Gearing, Baldor
Material Handling September 14, 2017

2017 Engineering Leader Under 40: Kendra King, 33

Process Controls Leader, Ascend Performance Materials, Decatur, Ala.

By CFE Media
Material Handling January 24, 2017

Large-capacity heated coatings tank

The Spraymaster 60 Gallon Heated Coatings Tank is designed to hold, heat, and blend a coating material.

By Marco
Material Handling January 18, 2017

Machining center

The VTC-805E Machining Center is designed with increased Y-axis stroke, a long bed/table size, high spindle speed and torque, and SmoothG CNC control for efficient, powerful machining

By Mazak
Material Handling January 10, 2017

Corrosion-inhibiting coating

The VpCI-368 corrosion-inhibiting coating is more powerful with the addition of extra vapor-phase corrosion inhibitors. VpCI-368 is designed to provide protection for metal substrates exposed to harsh outdoor conditions.

By Cortec
Material Handling July 6, 2016

EcoShield 386 water based coating

EcoShield 386 water based coating powered by Nano VpCI is a water based corrosion inhibitor that protect metal structures in extremely harsh outdoor conditions with a thin high gloss clear coat.

By Cortec
Material Handling June 7, 2016

ZIPport line of wiring products

ZIPport line of wiring products includes Mini Size 1 cables, cordsets, field-wireable connectors, T-couplers and bulkhead receptacles.

By AutomationDirect
Material Handling May 24, 2016

Large capacity 6-axis robots

The line of RV-F Series 6-axis robots to meet the demands of advanced automated manufacturing processes.

By Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc.
Material Handling May 20, 2016

Mini power distribution series connectors

Mini power distribution series connectors for harsh manufacturing environments.

By Mencom
Material Handling December 1, 2015

Picking through the layers to uncover efficiency, accuracy

A layer-picking system can improve efficiency and fulfillment, but requires more complex systems.

By Derek Rickard, Cimcorp
Material Handling November 20, 2015

Strategic planning for food processors series

Six elements of a thorough situation analysis.

By Gerry Gomolka, VP, business development, Stellar
Material Handling October 28, 2015

Frequency drives with NEMA 4X/IP66 enclosures

AC10 variable frequency drives features AC motor speed control with NEMA 4X/IP66 enclosures that provides protection for plant floor applications in dust and water resistant housing for harsh environments.

By Parker Hannifin
Material Handling October 20, 2015

Power combiners operating up to 6 GHz

RF Power combiners are ideal for systems using components such as power amplifiers, antenna feeds, attenuators, and switches for combining individual power amplifiers together in a large power block.

By Fairview Microwave
Material Handling September 28, 2015

Wearable technology for order picking

Transceiver strap wireless remote for QuickPick Remote order picking system, which provides warehouse and distribution an additional wearable option for operators.

By Crown Equipment
Material Handling August 31, 2015

Top 5 Plant Engineering articles, August 24-30: Absorption cooling, Lean equipment maintenance, manufacturing maintenance practices, more

Articles about absorption cooling, sustaining Lean equipment maintenance, achieving world-class manufacturing maintenance, five VFD myths, and Lean's relevance in today's economy were Plant Engineering’s five most-clicked articles from last week, August 24-30. Were you out last week? Miss something? You can catch up here.

By Chris Vavra
Material Handling June 30, 2015

Electromechanical heavy duty cylinder

The EMC-HD units are suitable for machinery and equipment as well as for outdoor use. Users can integrate them for intelligent energy management, reducing power consumption and CO2 emissions.

By Bosch Rexroth
Material Handling June 15, 2015

Industry trend talk: Using steam tracing for process

Heat tracing can be used to heat a variety of products. Understanding the basics of sizing and installing external line tracing will help you apply it effectively.

By Spirax Sarco
Material Handling June 4, 2015

Unusual flush plans for mechanical seals

API-682 edition highlights five plans that can be of benefit.

By Heinz Bloch, P.E.
Material Handling June 4, 2015

Dust collection projects: 8 tips to ensure success

Review the project plans and make sure to get all departments involved.

By John Staskiewicz, Donaldson Torit
Material Handling May 14, 2015

Inventory management: from RFID to the #2 pencil

There are many choices to assemble the right supply chain solution.

By Chase Sowden, Barcoding, Inc.
Material Handling April 8, 2015

Compressed air efficiency at a distance

Remote monitoring tools allow effective measurement when no one is around. An optimized compressed air system is integral to a manufacturing facility’s success. Remote monitoring is a vital part of compressed air system optimization and offers a highly efficient strategy on the pathway to the connected plant.

By Brian Blum, Atlas Copco Compressors LLC
Material Handling April 8, 2015

Wear-resistant ceramic coatings

Reactive maintenance procedures force the plant to make quick fixes where parts are reinforced, patched, rebuilt, or completely replaced to get back up and running as soon as possible. If repaired or replaced parts are put back into service without somehow protecting the parts against recurrent damage, the service life of that equipment will be less predictable.

By Rachel Nashett and J. Adam Lyman, Henkel
Material Handling February 5, 2015

Planning your move crucial in parts management upgrades

Review inventory, assess space and customer needs before making changes.

By Bob Vavra, Content Manager, Plant Engineering
Material Handling January 21, 2015

Copper or PVC: which is better for your facility?

Among facility managers and maintenance engineers, there is an ongoing debate over whether copper or PVC piping is superior. Each type of piping has its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. We’ll look at both types of piping so you can weigh the pros and cons to get a better idea of what piping best suits your facility.

By Amanda Hill
Material Handling January 16, 2015

Designing packaging from the outside in

AME report: Innovative approaches can cut shipping cost significantly.

By Patricia Moody
Material Handling October 28, 2014

4 reports predict steady growth for robotics

Four recent research reports covering service robots, vision guided robotics, material handling robots, and robot component speed reducers, all predict steady growth, particularly in China.

By Frank Tobe, The Robot Report
Material Handling September 15, 2014

Understanding cavitation: friend or foe?

We are going to discuss the destructive side of cavitation, a dynamic force almost always unwanted and unexpected.

By Jack Goyette, Account Executive for Spirax Sarco
Material Handling August 28, 2014

Maraging steel electrodes

The maraging steel electrodes have high toughness levels at maximum tensile strength which are also much appreciated in the Tool & Die manufacturing industry.

Material Handling August 7, 2014

Pneumatic impact wrench

The 2235 Series Impactool, a brand new pneumatic impact wrench, was created to be the new go-to impact wrench for automotive technicians and industrial workers.

Material Handling July 9, 2014

Hydraulic lift and tilt table

The BEHLTT series of hydraulic lift and tilting tables offer an ergonomic handling aid for workers in industrial facilities.

Material Handling July 8, 2014

Top takeaways from AUTOMATICA 2014

AUTOMATICA reminds you that there's a whole lot of "stuff" going on inside a robot.

By Frank Tobe, The Robot Report
Material Handling June 3, 2014

Business accelerator model helps you rethink your path to profitability

Key to streamlining supplier relationships is to change your approach to value-added information

By Joe Woods, Trelleborg Sealing Solutions
Material Handling May 7, 2014

Dual-wheel casters

The dual-wheel design essentially doubles the load capacity of the single-wheel series.

Material Handling March 19, 2014

MHI Roadmap paves the way to material handling future

With an accelerating supply chain, the manufacturing industry now faces 10 major issues, study finds.

By Bob Vavra
Material Handling March 19, 2014

Supply chain industry must close gap in innovation investment

MHI study finds companies understand the technology available but are slow to ramp up their capital expenditures

By Bob Vavra
Material Handling March 5, 2014

Innovation a key component in supply chain

If manufacturing is poised to have a big year in 2014, one of the biggest potential areas for growth is the material handling sector. The movement of materials from the front door to the back door—and the management of the supply chain on either side—is growing in importance as a way to manage costs and generate efficiency throughout the manufacturing process. As MHI prepares to stage the 2014 MODEX Show in Atlanta, George W. Prest, CEO of MHI, discussed the growth opportunities the challenges facing material handling with Plant Engineering.

By George Prest
Material Handling January 7, 2014

Market for AMOLED Light-Emitting materials set to surge in 2014

With a flood of new competitors set to initiate or increase the production of active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) panels next year, demand for materials used to make AMOLEDs is forecast to rise by nearly 27 percent in 2014.

By IHS Inc.
Material Handling December 4, 2013

Advanced module for welding

The Power Wave Advanced Module has AC welding capability to run aluminum processes and its welding system can perform several processes

Material Handling November 18, 2013

2013 Product of the Year finalists: Manual Material Handling

Finalists in the Manual Material Handling category for the Plant Engineering 2013 Product of the Year competition.

By Amanda McLeman
Material Handling November 18, 2013

2013 Product of the Year finalists: Material Handling Systems

Finalists in the Material Handling Systems category for the Plant Engineering 2013 Product of the Year competition.

By Amanda McLeman
Material Handling June 27, 2013

Study identifies 10 ways to improve supply chain efficiency

Tennessee study looks at ways to improve data management, get more collaboration

Material Handling May 17, 2013

Decoding “efficiency” for mechanical draft fans

Indoor air quality: In the industrial sector, efficiency is a hot topic, and one increasingly relevant to the design of mechanical draft fans

By Nurul “Moni” Talukder, PE, ProcessBarron
Material Handling April 25, 2013

Investment in excellence

One plant's improved productivity and quality was repaid when the company expanded the facility

By Bob Vavra
Material Handling April 16, 2013

Modern air curtains conserve energy, maintain comfort

Block air movement, invisibly

By Energy Solutions Center
Material Handling April 10, 2013

Diesel pneumatic tire lift trucks

The DP40N1-DP55N1 Series features a new diesel engine that meets energy efficiency standards and has a maintenance-free emissions system

Material Handling March 8, 2013

Lift truck holds up its end – after 68 years

Yale designated a Pennsylvania company’s vehicle as its oldest operational lift truck in the U.S.

Material Handling February 15, 2013

What’s leaking, dock?

Plugging your air and light gaps can avoid an unwelcome delivery at loading areas.

By Michael Brittingham
Material Handling January 24, 2013

Data tracking is on the move at ProMat

Suppliers are watching when, where, and how material moves through the plant.

By Bob Vavra, Content Manager, CFE Media
Material Handling January 9, 2013

MHI is the new face of material handling trade group

Association rebrands, will relaunch under new logo at ProMat Show Jan. 21

Material Handling November 18, 2012

Crown study: Attitudes around material handling systems changing

Study finds technology a major driver of change in industry

Material Handling October 25, 2012

White Paper: Hyster: Maximize Uptime and Profits Through Effective Fleet Management Practices

This white paper helps any operation with a fleet of lift truck equipment to effectively and efficiently manage that fleet.

Material Handling October 18, 2012

Siemens Industry to open S.C. plant in 2012

Transportation, workforce attract mechanical drives division facility to Maudlin

By CFE Media
Material Handling August 31, 2012

Building a better warehouse instead of a bigger one

Sovena USA was able to address space issues within its operation without adding any more bricks or mortar.

By Sovena USA
Material Handling August 17, 2012

Quality manufacturing, community involvement address challenges of competing in global market

Key executives at The Raymond Corp. discuss the challenges of competing in the global material handling market.

By The Raymond Corp.
Material Handling May 31, 2012

White Paper: Hormann Flexon: Speed-Commander 1400 SEL Food-Master High Performance Door Delivers Energy Control for Fast-Paced Food Processing Applications

The Food-Master design allows you to select only the stainless steel components you need without paying for unnecessary options.

By Hormann Flexon
Material Handling May 14, 2012

FROM THE ARCHIVES: Maintenance as a profit center

Implementing a Lean system requires leadership and patience

By Jack Smith, BIT Writing and Editing Services
Material Handling May 14, 2012

FROM THE ARCHIVES: Lift truck fleet maintenance needs a comprehensive plan

Properly planning a lift truck fleet and implementing a service schedule are critical to optimizing the fleet’s uptime and productivity.

By Jim O'Brien and Al Silar, Raymond Corporation
Material Handling April 12, 2012

Conveyor line

2200 Series conveyor with Precision Move technology

Material Handling April 12, 2012

Pallet trucks

The WP 3000 Series Walkie Pallet Truck

Material Handling April 5, 2012

New tests for safer reactors

Operating a nuclear reactor causes progressive microstructural changes in the alloys used in cladding, and that can hurt the materials’ integrity.

By Source: Greg Hale, ISS Source
Material Handling March 13, 2012

Pneumatic tire lift trucks

The 2EPC5000 - 2EP6500 series of pneumatic tire lift trucks

By Caterpillar
Material Handling March 13, 2012

Hot-wire anemometer

HHF-SD1 series of hot-wire thermistor anemometer

By Omega Engineering
Material Handling February 15, 2012

In the Plant: The right mix for success

Energy and maintenance excellence deliver uptime at the Chelsea Milling plant.

By Bob Vavra, Content Manager
Material Handling February 10, 2012

Permanent, electromagentic pulleys

A series of powerful magnetic pulleys designed for automatic separation of heavy tramp iron contaminants.

Material Handling December 16, 2011

Grasp control, and find the power to change

Every manufacturer has the same goal of creating a productive plant – and each faces the same hurdles to achieve it.

By Bob Vavra, Content Manager
Material Handling December 14, 2011

Palletizing options

The first step in choosing your palletizing equipment is analyzing the full range of products and packaging types running on your line.

By Martin Clark, Intelligrated
Material Handling November 1, 2011

2011 POY Finalists: Manual Material Handling

Finalists in Manual Material Handling in Plant Engineering’s 2011 Product of the Year competition

By Edited by Gust Gianos, Plant Engineering
Material Handling November 1, 2011

POY Finalist: Lift truck integrated scale

Finalist in Material Handling Systems in Plant Engineering’s 2011 Product of the Year competition

By Edited by Gust Gianos, Plant Engineering
Material Handling November 1, 2011

POY Finalist: AC lift truck

Finalist in Material Handling Systems in Plant Engineering’s 2011 Product of the Year competition

By Edited by Gust Gianos, Plant Engineering
Material Handling September 29, 2011

George Prest to head MHIA

Succeeds Nofsinger as CEO of material handling association.

Material Handling August 21, 2011

Comprehensive conveyor maintenance plan reduces tension

Maintenance personnel need to be up-to-date on the latest procedures in order to detect any and all issues in their conveyor. By following simple maintenance procedures, members of the maintenance team can ensure that conveyors will keep product moving for years to come.

By Steve Staedler, Dorner Manufacturing
Material Handling August 8, 2011

In Depth: Taking a big step to establish a global footprint

Martin Engineering VP Jim Turner discusses the company's recent expansion into the Jiangsu Province of China.

By Plant Engineering
Material Handling May 10, 2011

Don’t overlook your forks in maintenance inspection

If you’re not inspecting your forks at least every 12 months, you are not in compliance with ASME/ANSI B56.1-2000.

By Lou Micheletto, Yale Materials Handling Corporation
Material Handling April 26, 2011

Second Crown Equipment facility achieves zero landfill status

Crown Equipment Corporation has released its 2010 global ecological report, one of the main highlights being a second zero landfill

By SOURCE: Crown Equipment Corporation
Material Handling April 5, 2011

Gas Technology: Better process furnaces

Furnace energy improvements for the metal casting and heat treating industries

Material Handling March 21, 2011

Life-cycle costing strategy delivering financial benefit

What separates the top performers is a focus on the factors they can control - including maintaining efficient operations and analyzing the total life-cycle costs of their equipment

By Tom Dabbs, Plant Performance Services Group, ITT
Material Handling March 18, 2011

Lift truck fleet management: 10 steps to stay on track

Lift truck fleet management is as much about the management as the vehicles in the fleet. Pat DeSutter, the director of fleet management at NACCO Materials Handling Group, Inc. offers 10 ways to get your fleet aligned with your strategic needs.

Material Handling February 7, 2011

Transporter material handling magnets line expands

IMI expands material handling magnet line, offering an electric-free means of movement

Material Handling January 18, 2011

AC-powered Lift Truck features ADS

Hyster’s E30-40XN Series offers quality, ergonomics; creating an operator-friendly AC-powered lift truck.

Material Handling January 13, 2011

Linear drives features high thrust option, doubles thrust without increasing drive size

Linear Drives by Amacoil-Uhing now available with extra bearing options, increases axial thrust capacity without having to upgrade to larger model

Material Handling January 6, 2011

Baumer EtherCAT encoders minimize cabling

Baumer’s Absolute ATD EtherCAT Encoders simplify communication between drives, control systems in multi-I/O equipment.

Material Handling December 15, 2010

BEST PRACTICES: Space utilization

Warehouse and distribution center managers constantly face the challenge to efficiently utilize space – and therefore reduce costs – while selecting material handling solutions that are specific to their applications and needs

By Susan Comfort, the Raymond Corporation
Material Handling December 2, 2010

Meet the 2010 Product of the Year finalists

This year’s finalists attacked some of the most pressing issues in manufacturing – energy efficiency, plant floor maintenance, automation systems and safety. Those four core principles of effective manufacturing are also four of the toughest areas for many manufacturers to address. This year, our Product of the Year Finalists make those tasks just that much easier.

Material Handling November 15, 2010

2010 POY Finalists: Material Handling Systems

Plant Engineering's 2010 Product of the Year finalists featured in the Material Handling Systems category.

Material Handling November 12, 2010

GAS TECHNOLOGY: Air Curtains Can Make a Difference

Invisible Wall to Separate Environments

Material Handling August 19, 2010

Take 8 steps to debug process control system

A strategic approach to identifying and debugging system shortfalls doesn’t have to be an overwhelming proposition, and this article certainly isn’t intended to introduce anything as sophisticated or complicated as a SCADA system.

By Hilton Hammond and Sherman Lovell, Fluke
Material Handling July 20, 2010

GAS TECHNOLOGY: Dryer technology on the move

heat exchangers are installed on dryer exhaust air. The heat recovered is used to pre-heat dryer makeup air. This type of heat recovery typically reduces energy usage by 10-15%, but savings can be much higher in certain applications.

Material Handling April 8, 2010

Progressive growth for material handling

John Nofsinger, CEO of the Material Handling Industry of America, talks about how his organization and his industry sector are preparing for this year's event and the recovery at hand.

By Bob Vavra
Material Handling April 1, 2010

Storage system

The custom size and weight capacity roll-out shelving storage system line has adjustable blocking to accommodate storage of multiple different size items on a single shelf and provide flexibility as your material handling needs change. These custom storage racks provide easy and organized access to cylinders, tooling, round bar alloys, molds and other hard to store industrial items on ergonomic...

Material Handling April 1, 2010

Pedestrian safety

The new Steps to Safety educational program assists an employer in teaching pedestrians how to act responsibly in environments where lift trucks are operated. The training program includes a DVD, presentation materials with an end-of-program review, and a participant handout. The Steps To Safety program is uniquely designed to target the pedestrian, rather than the lift truck operator.

Material Handling April 1, 2010

Material handling systems

The Real Time Solutions product family includes pick-to-light, pick-to-voice, pick-to-cart, RF picking and order fulfillment software, and is installed in more than 300 systems in North America. The Crisplant tilt-tray and cross-belt sorters feature linear synchronous motors (LSM) for up to 75% reduction in energy, and are ideal for high-speed applications with a wide variety of product sizes a...

Material Handling February 19, 2010

Pedestrian safety focus of Raymond series

Steps to Safety looks at material handling issues

By Bob Vavra
Material Handling February 1, 2010

ProMat, robotics shows to combine forces in 2011

Material Handling Industry of America and the Automation Technologies Council announced that ProMat and The International Robots, Vision & Motion Control Show will collocate in 2011. Both exhibitions will be held March 21-24, 2011 at Chicago’s McCormick Place. ATC is the umbrella group for Robotic Industries Association, Automated Imaging Association and Motion Control Association.

Material Handling January 14, 2010

ABB Robots highlight Ford productivity, efficiency at Detroit Auto Show 2010

Robotics from ABB are helping with Ford manufacturing productivity and working to deliver a fuel efficiency message at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. 

By Bob Vavra
Material Handling January 4, 2010

Seven uncommon applications for IR thermometers

Savvy maintenance professionals know that infrared, non-contact thermometers fit beautifully into motors, drive and electrical maintenance. Simply scan the equipment while it's operational and look for components that are running hotter than they should be. Find problems before they burn up, and you save money and time.

By Brian Stowell, Fluke Corporation
Material Handling November 10, 2009

Reusable bulk containers

These reusable bulk containers are available in a choice of durable polyethylene materials to ensure the ideal plastic container is specified to match the bulk density and other properties of the intended cargo while reducing risk of over-specifying.

Material Handling October 1, 2009

Rotary encoders

T-Line 40-mm series incremental rotary encoders are available in standard inch shaft and coupling sizes. The encoders come standard with an integral 2-meter cable, and provide output resolution up to 1,024 ppr in an IP54-rated housing. They require a 4.75-30 Vdc supply voltage. The encoders are ideal for most light- to medium-duty applications in the material handling, packaging and printing in...

Material Handling September 1, 2009

Sealing choices offer flexibility

When specifying piping systems for industrial plants, engineers have an important role in addressing and alleviating challenges for the contractor and the owner, both during project design and construction and throughout the facility's life cycle. Mechanical pipe joining is a method used on a variety of utility service and process piping applications in thousands of industrial manufacturing fac...

By Bill Lowar, Victaulic
Material Handling August 6, 2009

Sucking the waste from housekeeping practices

Five ways industrial vacuum systems add to the bottom line

Material Handling July 1, 2009

IP67 power connectors

A-size 3- and 4-pin 7/8 16UN powerfast connectors provide up to 600 V and 15 A of power in a modular wiring design. The IP67-rated connectors are designed to handle high-current applications for machine power distribution, while delivering resistance to vibration commonly associated with conveyors, motors and material handling applications.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling June 30, 2009

Cooling for electrical enclosures

These cooling units for industrial electrical enclosures are offered in NEMA Type 12, NEMA Type 3R/4 and stainless steel NEMA Type 4/4X designs, with operating voltages of 115 Vac, 230 Vac or 460 Vac for a total of 18 new models.

Material Handling June 1, 2009

Slow movement toward predictive maintenance seen in Tennessee study

Production throughput and being cost competitive are as important as ever. Understanding what is attainable and implementing reliability and maintenance best practices can provide that opportunity. This benchmarking study is a repeat of a similar effort performed in 1991. It will be published in two parts.

By Klaus M. Blache, Ph.D., University of Tennessee, Reliability and Maintainability Center
Material Handling April 2, 2009

Vacuum components

A line of vacuum system components for building and repairing robotics, automation, pick-and-place and EOAT includes a variety of suspensions, fittings, brackets, and suction cups.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling April 1, 2009

Selecting the right low-voltage power fuse

Users have a variety of criteria to consider when choosing fuses

By Robert Lyons Jr., Ferraz Shawmut LLC
Material Handling March 20, 2009

Machine communications a response to workforce shortage?

Communication has been a function of plant machinery for a long time. Machines communicate when there’s a problem, alerting operators of the issue. Machines communicate data on their condition or the level of production. They can communicate with each other about any number of things. Is the next step for them to take action on issues?

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling March 20, 2009

Using ERP to make lot tracking a precise process

In pharma manufacturing, getting to the source of a problem is critical

By Jay Deakins, Deacom, Inc.
Material Handling March 13, 2009

Storage systems integrator, manufacturer join forces

Boston Rack International, Inc., an integrator of material handling equipment solutions based in North Easton, MA, is joining forces with storage solutions company Base Manufacturing, Monroe, GA, to become a full-service integrator and warehouse storage solutions manufacturer.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling February 20, 2009

Record numbers achieved at ProMat 2009

The well-attended biennial event brought a thaw to the brisk Chicago winter and showed that maybe, in some sectors, the frigid economy may be beginning to thaw as well.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling February 1, 2009

Hoisting innovation for safety, productivity and ergonomics

In this age where manufacturers constantly search for ways to cut costs while increasing production, initiatives such as Lean manufacturing, ergonomics and safety influence their needs. They demand tools that can accommodate multitasking, that are designed to handle product swiftly and securely without damaging it and protect workers from repetitive motion injuries, but also are built with oper...

By Kevin Campbell, Senior Editor
Material Handling January 1, 2009

What a ride!

It would be an understatement to say that 2008 was quite a tumultuous year. From a massacre on a university campus to the election of a new president to the troubles in the U.S. economy to the near-extinction of the major U.S.-based auto makers – what a ride!

By Jack Smith, Editor
Material Handling December 1, 2008

Technology, workforce, education on ProMat 2009 menu

Looking for new ways to move inventory throughout your facility or finished product out the door to distributors and retailers? If so, ProMat 2009 may be a good place to start looking for solutions. The biennial event, sponsored by the Material Handling Institute of America, returns to Chicago's McCormick Place Jan.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling December 1, 2008

Dense phase conveyors

CycloLok dense phase conveyors are designed to handle highly abrasive and friable materials, and to withstand harsh environments.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling November 1, 2008

Construction, Buildings & Grounds

Barrier system The Spanguard safety barrier can stop up to 200 pounds of force with minimal deflection. Designed to separate and define work areas, the system features a 36-inch-tall curtain that stands 48 inches off the floor when in use. The system is engineered for easy installation and relocation; one person can operate it.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling August 15, 2008

‘Slim’ pickings for order fulfillment: Vertical lift modules elevate Lean distribution goals

For many companies, achieving a Lean distribution environment begins with reducing lead times and lot sizes while increasing flexibility to achieve consistent results. With a flexible operation in place, companies can respond to changing market needs rather than rescheduling orders and inventory within a traditional optimization plan.

By Amanda Loudin, MHIA
Material Handling June 9, 2008

Next-generation PC control software

This version PC control software supports development, deployment and operation of high-value automated control systems for material handling and manufacturing.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling May 15, 2008

Rollers

Line of rollers includes cushion rollers, solid versions, finned, and drives roller designs.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling May 15, 2008

AC motor brakes

UNIBRAKE AC motor brakes are spring-applied and feature fewer moving parts to reduce downtime for stop/hold applications found in material handling and food processing, among others.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling May 15, 2008

Products, sustainability and market conditions drive NA 2008 attendees

Over its first two days, the NA 2008 Material Handling and Logistics Show, held April 21-24 at Cleveland’s I-X Center, enjoyed good size crowds in the morning that seemed to dwindle slightly in the afternoon.

By Kevin Campbell, Senior Editor
Material Handling April 25, 2008

Kaman subsidiary acquires Industrial Supply Corporation

Kaman Industrial Technologies Corporation recently completed its acquisition of Richmond, VA-based Industrial Supply Corporation

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling April 25, 2008

Products, sustainability, and market conditions drive NA 2008

The show on material handling and logistics featured some new product introductions and a focus on a topic that is rapidly gaining interest throughout industry: sustainability

By Kevin Campbell, Senior Editor
Material Handling April 15, 2008

Picking robotic tooling for palletizing

Today’s manufacturers have started looking downstream more and more for automation opportunities. And when they do, more of them are choosing robotic systems.

By Earl Wohlrab, FKI Logistex Manufacturing Systems
Material Handling March 28, 2008

Toyota to manufacture tractors at Indiana plant

Toyota announced this week that its Columbus, IN-based manufacturing plant, Toyota Industrial Equipment Manufacturing, Inc., will begin manufacturing the company’s line of diesel tow tractors.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling March 28, 2008

Kaman to acquire Industrial Supply Corporation

Kaman Corp. recently announced that its subsidiary, Kaman Industrial Technologies Corporation has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Richmond, VA-based Industrial Supply Corporation.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling March 15, 2008

Conveyor belt

The Mini-Unscrambler conveyor orients cases into a single-file line at rates of up to 100 cartons per minute for induction into high-speed material handling systems. It has a standard length of 15w feet and edge-aligns cartons to deliver them in a single-line orientation. Applications include uses in pre-sorter induction areas, manual or automated de-palletizing cells and manual repack areas.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling March 7, 2008

Brushless AC motor

The HypAC brushless permanent magnet AC motor features an integrated controller, accepts 24 to 80 VDC inputs and provides output from 1 to 5 kW.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling February 15, 2008

Robots

The ST70L and ST100 are part of the Presto ST Series of multi-purpose robots. Designed for use in mounting spot welding guns, their wrist torque supports large material handling grippers. The robots have a 60,000-hour MTBF and an optional integrated dress package. Nachi Robotic Systems Inc. www.nachirobotics.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling January 15, 2008

Fuel cell refueling time reduced, Raymond study finds

The Raymond Corporation announced yesterday that its research into hydrogen fuel cell-powered lift truck performance has led to some interesting findings. The research commenced in January, at its Greene, NY, manufacturing facility.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling December 20, 2007

Seeing a better future: Simulation software renders optimal plant layout before construction

MAN Nutzfahrzeuge, a heavy-duty truck manufacturer based in Munich, Germany, is substantially cutting the cost of building a new production facility by using the simulation capabilities of the DELMIA Process Engineer software package from Dassault Systemes.

By Manufacturing Business Technology Staff
Material Handling December 15, 2007

Top Plant: GEMA: Sticking with the game plan

Rows and rows of CNC machines stretch through the 1.1 million square foot Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance facility in Dundee, MI. Hundreds of yards of conveyors cut a path through – and in some cases over – the manufacturing floor.

By Bob Vavra, Editor
Material Handling December 15, 2007

Motor control center data offers maintenance insight

One piece of equipment that is increasingly being incorporated into a plant’s network is the motor control center.

By Terry Schiazza and Anthony Propes, Square D/Schneider Electric
Material Handling December 15, 2007

Tomorrow’s factories will evolve in design, function

Today’s industrial manufacturing facility is a marvelous integration of process and facility. Before we analyze its current state and theorize about its future, let’s take a moment to recall its history and evolution. Near the start of the 20th century, architect Albert Kahn became one of the early inventors of the automobile factory, and in 1914 was commissioned to design Henry For...

By John E. Enkemann Jr. and Peter G. Lynde, Albert Kahn Associates
Material Handling December 13, 2007

White paper examines role of ergonomics in integrated Lean strategies

A recent publication by Material Handling Industry of America emphasizes the importance of integrating Lean and ergonomic concepts with material handling equipment solutions.

By Staff
Material Handling November 15, 2007

Multifast connectors

Molded M27 multifast 26- and 28-pin connectors provide power and signals to factory automation equipment in the automotive, semiconductor and material handling industries. The cordsets and receptacles are suitable replacements for D-Sub (DB-25) style connectors in industrial settings where DB-25 connectors are limited to 30 V and low current.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling November 15, 2007

Integrated programming software

RSLogix v16 programming software allows GuardLogix users to control multiple axis robot applications. It features user-defined add-on instructions; and integrated drives configuration for faster setup, improved accuracy and easier drive maintenance. Robot control allows users to manage material handling, processing equipment and robot with one architecture.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling November 15, 2007

Software tool

FAST Suite Enterprise is a software tool that provides access to critical operational data about automated material handling systems. The software allows users to make informed decisions on how to improve efficiency and throughput by allowing access to operating information. Features include the ability to secure access to real-time operational data, enhanced operational statistics, browser-bas...

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling November 15, 2007

Manufacturing leaders mark milestones in 2007

PLANT ENGINEERING’s 60th anniversary celebration isn’t the only major commemoration in manufacturing in 2007. Many companies reached important milestones as well. The Raymond Corporation: 85th anniversary The Raymond Corporation rededicated its Muscatine, IA plant in September as the company’s only Class III lift truck manufacturing facility in North America.

By Bob Vavra
Material Handling November 15, 2007

Merge solution

The Perpetual Merge system features increased throughput with continuous-motion in-feed and consistent product merging. The system runs at a slower constant speed, which meets the required throughput rate and results in less maintenance and a longer service life. The system has a small footprint and requires a small amount of floor space due to the elimination of the accumulation conveyor, whic...

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling November 15, 2007

The age of Wal-Mart, and the future of waste

There was an interesting front page story recently in the Wall Street Journal about Wal-Mart. The point was fairly straightforward – the age of Wal-Mart has come and gone. As you would expect, the article detailed some of the global retailer’s difficulties of late. But the real centerpiece was the claim that the age of supplying goods at the lowest prices, the Wal-Mart credo, has co...

By Gary Forger, Material Handling Industry of America
Material Handling October 12, 2007

MHIA affiliate presents awards

The College Industry Council on Material Handling Education recently announced the winners of the 2007 Outstanding Material Handling & Logistics Content Award Competition

By Staff
Material Handling October 1, 2007

FreeFlow disposition options keep inventory moving in harmony with the sales channel

When SanDisk, a Milpitas, Calif.-based manufacturer of flash storage card products, received MP3 players back from its sales channel, it sought to clear the inventory rather than hold it or reprocess it. It turned to inventory asset management services provider FreeFlow for assistance. “As is often the case in such situations, manufacturers want to differentiate these types of products f...

By Staff
Material Handling September 15, 2007

Chem Show, Automation Fair highlight October trade events

Occupying the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York Oct. 30-Nov. 1, Chem Show 2007 features the nanotechnology and nano-bio convergence symposium and workshop, a gathering to discuss the continuing emergence and application of this cutting-edge technology. Some of the top nanoscientists and business leaders in the world will be on hand to discuss the ramifications of nanotechnology and ...

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling September 7, 2007

Warehouse management system offers raw materials visibility throughout processing

Targeted particularly for consumer packaged goods, food and beverage manufacturers, the system offers raw material controls throughout production and finished goods.

By Staff
Material Handling August 31, 2007

NACCO Materials Handling Group partners with Intermec to sell lift truck technology

Intermec has entered into an aftermarket reselling agreement with NACCO Materials Handling Group, Inc. (NMHG), to provide vehicle-mount computers, handheld bar-code scanners and RFID technology equipment for NMHG's Hyster and Yale brand lift trucks.

By Staff
Material Handling August 31, 2007

Caterpillar investment in China, plans to build small and medium diesel engines

The company has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with the Wuxi National High-Tech Industrial Development Zone outlining a significant, multi-year investment to develop and manufacture Perkins and Caterpillar-branded engines in Wuxi, Jiangsu province, China.

By Staff
Material Handling August 15, 2007

Trade show season heats up

As the heat and humidity of summer begins to fade to the cool and arid conditions of fall, the trade show and conference season really begins to heat up. Whether your primary interest is maintenance, wireless technology or a turnkey solution for a process; safety; electrical or mechanical engineering; automation or something else; there's certain to be a show or a conference in the coming month...

By Kevin Campbell
Material Handling August 3, 2007

FKI Logistex opens technology and education center

The facility features demonstrations of new sortation innovations, picking technologies and controls and software solutions and allows visitors to test their own products and containers on the equipment.

By Staff
Material Handling July 15, 2007

Powerfast connectors

Suitable for conveyor, small motor and material handling applications, three and four-pin M16 powerfast connectors provide up to 15 Amps of current in a small molded body. The cordsets are available with a tray-rated, exposed-run PVC flexlife cable, and all connectors provide IEC IP67 protection and are rated for 600 VAC/VDC.

By Staff
Material Handling July 15, 2007

MHIA names Forger new senior VP

Gary Forger, previously editorial director for Reed Business Information publication Modern Materials Handling magazine, has been appointed senior vice president of professional development for Material Handling Industry of America. He has covered the material handling and logistics industry and the use of its technology in warehousing, distribution and manufacturing since 1984.

By Staff
Material Handling July 3, 2007

Mini soft starts

Altistart 01 mini soft starts come in three different performance levels to meet the needs of fractional and low-horsepower single-phase and three-phase asynchronous motors with varying horsepower.

By Staff
Material Handling June 21, 2007

Material Handling Industry of America makes Forger senior vice president

Former Modern Materials Handling editorial director covered material handling since 1984.

By Staff
Material Handling June 7, 2007

Heater kit

The Kapton heater kit has thin, flexible heaters with adhesive backing to conform to most flat or curved surfaces.

By Staff
Material Handling May 9, 2007

MHIA co-publishes guide for ergonomic manual material handling operations

The Material Handing Industry of America, in conjunction with four other organizations, has co-published Ergonomic Guidelines for Manual Material Handling . The 68-page guide offers tips for recognizing hazardous manual material handling applications and offers alternative procedures to reduce physical requirements. Click here for more information about the guide.

By Staff
Material Handling April 13, 2007

RIA researches hybrid sensor technology for material handling

Combining multiple sensors delivers better information

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling March 16, 2007

MHIA releases 2007 forecast, outlines key issues

The latest Material Handling Equipment Manufacturing (MHEM) forecast was released at the Material Handling Industry of America ’s Roundtable of Industry Leaders, held in February in Naples, FL. In addition to releasing the forecast, the roundtable outlined a number of issues facing the material handling and logistics industry. An overview of the market in 2006 showed new orders growing 10% over 2005, setting a record high for the series at $26.3 billion. Shipments grew 13.7% in 2006, the report said.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling March 1, 2007

Lever hoists

The SLB Silver Series lever hoists features a light-weight construction and impact resistance for durability. The lever hoists are suitable for a variety of material handling and industrial applications, including maintenance and repairs, utilities, oil refineries, steel mills and foundries, shipbuilding and general construction.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 2007

When source capture isn’t an option

Source capture and ambient systems for collecting contaminants include hoods, ducting, air-cleaning devices and air-moving devices like fans, along with separate hoods and ducting. Capturing contaminants at the point of generation before they can escape into the ambient air is always the recommended approach, but many factors in plant layouts can make a source capture system impractical.

By Paul Sawyer, United Air Specialists, Inc.
Material Handling February 23, 2007

MHIA offers Lean tips, case histories

Lean manufacturing is the management philosophy of reducing waste in manufactured products or any type of business. Achieving the beginning stages of Lean is fairly easy; it's taking it to the next level that requires hard work, dedication, and in many cases, the right equipment. "Lean manufacturing is all about managing your processes with the goal being a measurable return-on-investment for your efforts at implementing change, however simple or sophisticated that change may be," said Dick Ward, executive vice president, Material Handling Industry of America . "You can achieve the first steps of Lean relatively easily, and then you reach a point where you have to look for the next opportunity." In “Slimming Down with Technology,” the Material Handling Industry of America cites six companies that successfully implemented Lean techniques in their material handling operations.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling February 14, 2007

New catalog offers more products for unplanned needs

Grainger's expanded product offering is featured in the company's newly redesigned catalog. The 2007 edition features more than 138,000 facilities maintenance products. With more than 3,000 pages of product and technical information, the catalog offers enhanced search and selection tools to help customers quickly find the products they need. “Our customers told us they turn to our catalog as a reference tool for sourcing facilities maintenance products,” said Kevin Peters, senior vice president of supply chain management for Grainger.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling February 9, 2007

January’s ProMat deemed successful

As a harbinger of the continued economic vitality of the material handling and logistics industry, U.S. and international attendees registered in record numbers for ProMat 2007 at Chicago’s McCormick Place South. Attendance at the show and conference, sponsored by the Material Handling Industry of America , grew three percent to more than 35,000. Reflecting the growing global nature of the event, attendees from 100 countries and six continents were welcomed by ProMat's International Visitors Center. "Visitors and exhibitors agree that ProMat 2007 was a tremendous success for them.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling February 1, 2007

Automation, Lean join forces to keep products moving

Ever since Henry Ford perfected what has become the modern-day assembly line, manufacturers have attempted to improve the concept. It continues today as companies demand their plant personnel to continually do more with less. Whether it’s through installing new machines to increase throughput, incorporating new controls and components to make those machines run more efficiently or reconfi...

By Kevin Campbell, Senior Editor
Material Handling February 1, 2007

Discovering the right time and the right place

If manufacturing is organized chaos, then the warehouse is where that organization lives – or where the chaos lives. The process of making things works only if you have someplace to receive the raw materials, and then someplace to send the finished goods. The ingress and egress of materials through a plant is critical to the process itself, and it is that process that brought plant manage...

By Bob Vavra, Editor
Material Handling January 17, 2007

Driving quality through process consistency

A recent MESA Webcast discussed the importance of consistency in material handling and processing activities in the plant to the overall product quality. Manufacturing Business Technology was the media sponsor of this Webcast, which can be downloaded from the MESA Website by clicking here .

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling January 12, 2007

MHIA provides outlook on industry, offerings at ProMat

It was a steadying message coming from the Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) during its press conference, held Tuesday as part of the ProMat 2007 trade show being held at Chicago’s McCormick Place. Following MHIA’s CEO John Nofsinger’s opening remarks, Brian McNamara, executive chairman, Material Handling Industry and president of Southworth International Group, detailed where the material handling industry has been over the past year and where it’s headed in the years ahead. “Like any other industry, like any other market segment, we have cycles. We have our ups, we have our downs,” said McNamara, as he cited growth the industry has seen over the past three years. Through October 2006, new orders grew at an annual rate of 8.6% to close at $26.4 billion, and shipments grew 14.7%, closing at $25.8 billion.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling January 10, 2007

Blog! Five Fast Things For January 10, 2007

1. Successful warehouse management: A presentation by the Aberdeen Group at the ProMat Show in Chicago Tuesday highlighted the results of their new study that focused on best practices in warehousing. The study’s findings were discussed at a Webcast conducted by our sister publication, Modern Materials Handling, and that Webcast will be available at their Website, www.mmh.com .

By Bob Vavra, Editor, Plant Engineering
Material Handling January 9, 2007

Blog! Five Fast Things for January 8, 2007

1. Welcome back to 2007! The opening show of 2007 is this week’s ProMat Show in Chicago’s McCormick Place. For those of you who spend your year on the road at trade events, you know it’s the start of another busy year on the road.

By Bob Vavra, Editor, Plant Engineering
Material Handling January 1, 2007

Contactless energy transfer: Mobile power on the go

Many plant engineers or production system designers can tell you that electrical wiring is the bane of their existence. From installing the wires to rewiring as production lines need to be changed to repairing damaged cables and connections, electrical wiring represents an ongoing cost and risk for downtime in manufacturing plants.

By Rainer Neufeld, SEW Eurodrive
Material Handling December 1, 2006

Driving continuous improvement

We have the same equipment as our competitors, said Tom Zawacki, general manager, general administration, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Inc., Kentucky (TMMK). “We use the same raw materials. They come from the same suppliers.” “When people come here, they ask, 'What’s that silver bullet? What’s that thing that makes Toyota different?’” added Rick Hesterbe...

By Jack Smith, Senior Editor
Material Handling December 1, 2006

When a plan comes together

Imagine this: you manage a major automotive manufacturing plant where every two-seat roadster and every SUV that the company sells worldwide is manufactured. Two vehicles on opposite ends of the continuum, right? It's not unusual to have two vehicles that differ so much roll out of the same plant. Now imagine this: both of these vehicles roll off of the same assembly line.

By Kevin Campbell, Senior Editor
Material Handling November 17, 2006

Toyota raises bar with environmentally friendly 8-Series lift truck

Toyota Material Handling, U.S.A., Inc. unveiled Thursday its line of 8-Series lift trucks. The line includes models featuring load-handling capabilities ranging from 3,000 to 6,500 pounds, internal combustion cushion and pneumatic tires.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling November 1, 2006

Portable lifter

The Lifter-2 portable worksite lifter is suitable for positioning loads where they are needed. A rugged design that is easily maneuvered, the winch-operated jib crane can lift loads of up to 500 pounds. Standard features include an all-welded-steel construction with a painted finish, a removable lifting platform and boom and swivel casters and push handles for maneuverability.

By Staff
Material Handling November 1, 2006

2006 Finalists Product of the Year

The best of 2006’s product innovation are presented in the 19th annual PLANT ENGINEERING Product of the Year balloting. Picking this year’s winners is now in our readers’ hands. Literally. This year’s balloting will be conducted electronically. Each of PLANT ENGINEERING’s qualified subscribers – those who have told us they have buy/specify responsibilities in...

By Staff
Material Handling September 29, 2006

Grainger opens first master branch in China

Grainger, a North American provider of facility maintenance products, announced Tuesday the opening of its first facility in China. Located in the Shanghai suburb of Minhang, the facility will initially stock approximately 20,000 products. Guaranteed availability of products in multiple categories will make it easy and convenient for customers to get the right solution when they need it, the company reported. Grainger also recently published a Chinese language catalogue featuring all the products carried in the master branch and has launched a Website at www.grainger.com.cn, making it easy for customers in China to find and order everything they need from one source. "Grainger is honored to be a part of the rapidly expanding economy in China," said Richard L.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling September 26, 2006

Material handling manufacturing outlook favorable through 2007

The forecast for material handling equipment manufacturing (MHEM) will continue to be favorable through 2007, according to the latest Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) quarterly MHEM History and Forecast.Material handling equipment manufacturing new orders grew at a record pace of 28.1% in 2005. MHIA forecasts continued growth of 11.0% to 13.0% in 2006, followed by slower growth in 2007 in the 3.5% to 5.0% range, closing out the most recent expansion phase of the MHEM business cycle. Material handling equipment manufacturing shipments grew 25.6% in 2005, while consumption grew 24.9%.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling September 14, 2006

ProMat 2007 arrives at Chicago’s McCormick Place Jan. 8-11

ProMat 2007, sponsored by Material Handling Industry of America, will feature more than 700 exhibitors in the South building of Chicago’s McCormick Place from Jan. 8-11. Exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling and logistics industry, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling September 14, 2006

Robin Moody named manager of MHIA conference programs

Richard E. Ward, executive vice president of professional development, Material Handling Industry of America, recently announced the advancement of Robin Moody to manager of conference programs. "I am extremely pleased to announce Robin's promotion. It is a position she has justly earned and one her seven years at MHIA have prepared her for,” Ward said.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling September 1, 2006

AMT, Shafi reach software support accord

Applied Manufacturing Technologies, Inc., a supplier of factory automation design, engineering and process consulting services, recently entered into an agreement with Shafi Inc, to provide engineering and software services and support for Shafi’s RELIABOT PC 3D vision software products. The effort is part of AMT’s ongoing machine vision initiative, providing integrators and end use...

By Staff
Material Handling August 31, 2006

Product of the Year deadline is Sept. 8

There will be two new categories when the 2006 Product of the Year nominees appear in the November issue of PLANT ENGINEERING . The Material Handling category has been expanded to include both Material Handling Systems and Manual Material Handling, and the Software category has been split to include Maintenance Software and Productivity Software. “The expanded categories reflect changes in the industry. This also gives us a better chance to honor more of the best innovations in plant floor products,” said PLANT ENGINEERING editor Bob Vavra. Entry deadline for the 2006 Product of the Year competition is Sept.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling August 1, 2006

The endless journey

For some manufacturers, Lean manufacturing is a goal. For others, it is a destination. It shouldn’t be either one. Lean, like business itself, is a journey. It’s an ever-evolving way to get somewhere. It is not something like a goal or a destination; it’s not something you can achieve.

By Kevin Campbell, Senior Editor
Material Handling July 14, 2006

Top Plant, Product of the Year entry applications on Website

Fewer than two months remain before nominations close for PLANT ENGINEERING ’s two programs honoring the best in manufacturing. Application forms for the 19thannual Product of the Year competition and the third annual Top Plant award are now available online at www.plantengineering.com . Also available on the home page are stories about Hewlett Packard and S&C Electric, winners of the 2004 Top Plant award, as well as DaimlerChrysler, the 2005 winner. Also featured on the Website are all Product of the Year winners from the past two years. Receiving these awards meant a lot to the 2005 recipients. “We are delighted and honored to receive this Grand Award for Product of the Year 2005,” said New Standard president Michael Brown at this year’s award gala.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling May 25, 2006

Toyota marks production of 250,000th lift truck

Toyota celebrated the production of its 250,000th lift truck Toyota executives, including Sonny Toyoda, president of TIEM; Tatsuo Matsuura, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Toyota Material Handling Group and Shankar Basu, president and CEO of Toyota Material Handling, U.S.A., Inc., participated in the ceremony. The first lift truck rolled off the line at the Columbus facility in 1990. Since then, the plant has grown to nearly 800 associates, increased production more than 10-fold and tripled in physical size. "Toyota remains committed to serving the North American market," said Basu. "We thank our customers, dealers and associates who have helped Toyota achieve this important milestone.".

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling April 1, 2006

Vertical conveyors

Stainless Steel Continuous Vertical Conveyors from TKF Inc. provide high speed up-and-down service with up to 40 loads a minute, have proven ideal for the packaging, food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. The conveyors offer numerous cost-efficient benefits, including simple, low-maintenance design, a wide selection of standardized units from modular components, and fully automatic oper...

By Staff
Material Handling April 1, 2006

Myths and realities of asset optimization

Fueled by the introduction of intelligent field devices and automation platforms capable of collecting and reporting asset health information, much has been written about asset management and asset optimization recently. Consequently, there are a number of perceptions and misconceptions about what these terms mean, what they do and what is driving demand for them.

By Bruce Reierson, ABB Inc.
Material Handling April 1, 2006

Infrared vs. gas-fired heat? Examine space to make the right choice

Large structures such as manufacturing complexes and warehouses present unique design challenges when it comes to developing heating system concepts. These buildings not only cover large areas, but they tend to be high-bay structures and have the potential for many overhead doors at the perimeter. Fixed equipment such as machine tools and conveyors can get in the way of heat distribution systems.

By Carl C. Schultz, PE, URS Corp., Columbus, OH.
Material Handling March 31, 2006

Grainer adds to product catalog

Grainger is adding more than 39,000 products to its new 2006 catalog launching April 3. The expansion brings the number of products offered through its catalog to more than 115,000. The expanded offering consists of some 30,000 different fasteners such as screws, bolts and nuts and an additional 10,000 products spread across diverse product categories including electrical, cleaning, material handling, plumbing and ventilation. To celebrate the announcement the company commissioned a large fastener sculpture by well-known Chicago sculptor Erik Blome.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling March 2, 2006

Manufacturing expansion seen into 2007

The manufacturing sector should be able to withstand some deceleration and continue its expansion through 2007, according to the Manufacturers Alliance/MAPI Quarterly Industrial Outlook that analyzes 27 major industries. In a sign of consistent strength in manufacturing, fourth quarter 2005 figures show that 20 of the 27 industries tracked in the report had inflation-adjusted new orders or production above the level of one year ago, the third consecutive quarter that 20 industries have shown improvement, and thus indicating broad-based growth in the industrial sector. Top industry performers in the fourth quarter, recording year-over-year double-digit growth, were mining and oil and gas field machinery (32%); ventilation, heating, air conditioning, and commercial refrigeration equipment (28%); communications equipment (26%); material handling equipment (23%); oil and gas well drilling (20%); electronic computers (19%); navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments (18%); aerospace product and parts (15%); and electrical equipment (11%). , writes that 11 industries are in the accelerating growth (recovery) phase of the business cycle; nine are in the decelerating growth (expansion) phase; six appear to be in the accelerating decline (either early recession or mid-recession) phase; and one—iron and steel products—is in the decelerating decline (late recession or very mild recession) phase of the cycle. “Consumer goods manufacturing grew at a moderate rate in the fourth quarter, material industries declined, but the capital equipment industries were very strong,” said Daniel J. Meckstroth, Manufacturers Alliance/MAPI Chief Economist and author of the analysis. “High- tech manufacturing also grew rapidly in the fourth quarter.” Three industries are expected to enjoy double-digit growth in both 2006 and 2007:10%/10%). In addition, two other industries should see double-digit growth in 2006, communications equipment (19%) and navigation, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments (14%). The Alliance expects some deceleration in manufacturing industrial production, with import penetration bearing some responsibility as many industries continue to compete with foreign producers.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling March 1, 2006

Educational conference, executive form to highlight NA 2006 in Cleveland

An education conference featuring a free executive forum will highlight the opening of NA 2006, sponsored by the Material Handling Institute of America. The event at Cleveland's I-X Center will offer expertise from industry leaders on breakthrough achievements in high performance supply chains. In addition, more than 60 free show floor educational seminars, an RFID education center, two detaile...

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 2006

Four major events in two weeks offer knowledge and innovations

March comes in like a lion — and goes out with four major trade events in the final two weeks of the month. Each offers an overview of the latest technologies for general manufacturing as well as specific market segments, and each offers a chance to gain knowledge of the latest techniques in the industry.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 2006

Component drives

The ACS150 component drive line from ABB features innovations that don't require specialized drive knowledge. Offered in a 0.5 hp to 5.0 hp range and operating in V/Hz mode, the user interface incorporates the same logic as that found in higher-powered drives. The integrated control panel is designed for ease of use, with a backlit LCD display and ergonomically designed keypad buttons.

By Staff
Material Handling February 16, 2006

NA 06 to look at supply chain achievements

When the 2006 Material Handling & Logistics Show and Conference (NA 2006) opens it's doors on March 27 at Cleveland's I-X Center it will include an Educational Conference featuring a free Executive Forum that will provide expertise from industry leaders on breakthrough achievements in high performance supply chains. In addition, over 60 free show floor educational seminars, an RFID Education Center, two detailed educational workshops and a two and one-half day short course outlining leading-edge equipment and technology solutions will be offered during the NA 2006 Educational Conference. Featuring top supply chain executives from Lucent Technologies, The Limited and Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, the NA 2006 Executive Forum will detail how they successfully transformed their supply chain and the bottom line achievements they attained as a result. Topics will include strategic decision-making, assessing and managing risk; and how to define and measure the returns from capital investments in supply chain infrastructure.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling February 6, 2006

News from PLANT ENGINEERING: Week of February 6

NAM study warns of innovation gap Downward trends in U.S. manufacturing innovation pose a serious threat to America’s long-term economic growth and living standards, according to a new report released today by the Council of Manufacturing Associations and The Manufacturing Institute of the National Association of Manufacturers. “Our nation can not afford to lose its manufacturing innovation edge and the wealth that it generates throughout our economy,” said Jerry Jasinowski, president of The Manufacturing Institute, at a press conference Feb. 1. “One bright ray of light is U.S.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling January 27, 2006

News from PLANT ENGINEERING: Week of Jan. 30

Study finds global growth potential in belt, chain drives market Rapidly expanding markets of Eastern Europe and Asia Pacific offer tremendous growth potential for manufacturers of belt and chain drives in North America. The challenge before manufacturers is to ensure a timely footprint in the emerging markets without losing focus on the established ones. Toward this end, proportionate allocation of resources in line with balanced growth strategy becomes imperative. New analysis from Frost & Sullivan ( www.powertransmissions.frost.com ), North American belt and chain drives market, reveals that revenue in this market totaled $2.09 billion in 2004 and projects to reach $2.79 billion in 2011. Another crucial issue is the rapid commoditization of belt and chain drive products, which leads to adverse price pressures and compels manufacturers to lower product prices. “Differentiation of the offerings in terms of better after-sales service and technological advancements can help mitigate the effects of price pressures,” says Frost & Sullivan power transmissions team leader Bhavdeep Virdee.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling January 27, 2006

Register for NA 2006

Both registration and booth space are filling quickly for NA 2006, sponsored by the Material Handling Industry of America. The event is slated for March 27 through March 30 at the I-X Center in Cleveland. NA 2006 focuses on the productivity solutions provided by material handling and logistics. The four-day event is designed to offer productivity solutions and information by showcasing the products and services of over 400 material handling and logistics providers. Industry professionals from the United States, Canada, Mexico and around the world are expected to attend.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling January 6, 2006

News from PLANT ENGINEERING: Week of Jan. 9

Gouhin named ISA executive director Patrick Gouhin has been named executive director of ISA, and began with the organization on Jan. 3. “Pat's experience and aptitude make him an excellent choice to help our organization in this exciting period of renewal,” said ISA president Don Zee.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling January 1, 2006

When preparing painting surfaces, touch all the bases

What makes a good paint job? Certainly, a well-specified coating system is one part of the equation. Another part is proper application of the coating. But don't forget what's underneath it all. It is estimated that up to 80% of all coatings failures can be attributed to inadequate surface preparation.

By Doni Riddle, The Sherwin-Williams Company, Houston
Material Handling December 1, 2005

Maverick acquires GE Automation Services

Maverick Technologies has acquired the automation services division of General Electric, expanding Maverick's reach into new markets. "We are very excited about this acquisition," said Maverick chairman and CEO Paul J. Galeski P.E. "The purchase of GE Automation Services represents a strong strategic addition to our mix of automation, business and reliability solutions, and is an integral part ...

By Staff
Material Handling December 1, 2005

Registration open for NA 2006 conference

When the 2006 Material Handling & Logistics Show and Conference, known as NA 2006, opens its doors on March 27 at Cleveland's I-X Center, it will include an educational conference featuring a free executive forum that will provide expertise from industry leaders on breakthrough achievements in high performance supply chains.

By Staff
Material Handling December 1, 2005

DaimlerChrysler: Building cars, building teams

The last Dodge Neon rolled off DaimlerChrysler's Belvidere, Illinois Assembly Plant in September. Eight weeks later, employees were ready to begin assembly of the new Dodge Caliber, due for introduction at the Detroit Auto Show next month. A decade ago, when Chrysler changed over from the Dynasty to the Neon, the assembly line changes took approximately four months.

By Jack Smith, Senior Editor
Material Handling November 29, 2005

Editorial Staff

We encourage you to PLANT ENGINEERING editorial staff, so that we may continue to provide plant engineers and managers with the most current and comprehensive information about your products and services. All press releases should be emailed to penewproducts@reedbusiness.com . When you send your email, please include a Word document, a 300 dpi photo and contact information, including manufacturer, contact name, address, and phone for our new electronic reader service process. To plan your PR for the year, Pat Mustari . Please also consult the Contributor's Guide for detailed information on submitting your materials to our editorial staff. Administrative and Publishing 2000 Clearwater DriveOak Brook, IL 60523Fax: 630-288-8781 Jim Langhenry, Publisher Phone: 630-288-8789 ARozgus@cfemedia.com Trudy Kelly, Publisher's Assistant Phone: 630-288-8780 TKelly@cfemedia.com Bob Vavra, Editor in Chief Safety, Paints Phone: 630-288-8779 BVavra@cfemedia.com Elena Moeller-Younger, Marketing Director Phone: 630-288-8085 elena.younger@reedbusiness.com Stephanie Grammens, Internet/Web Phone: 630-288-8019 stephanie.grammens@reedbusiness.com Ana Bonfante, Editorial Production Manager Phone: 630-288-8777 ana.bonfante@reedbusiness.com Jack Smith, Electrical, Illumination, Communications, Instruments & Controls, Software, Automation, Plant Electronics Phone: 630-288-8783 jsmith@reedbusiness.com Kevin Campbell, Senior Editor Maintenance, Material Handling, Saftey, Fluid Handling, Power Transmission, Compressed Air, HVAC, Welding, Lubrication, Tools, Fire Protection Phone: 630-288-8776 kjcampbell@reedbusiness.com Patricia Mustari, Editorial Services Coordinator Product of the Year Administrator Phone: 630-288-8775 pmustari@reedbusiness.com.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling November 29, 2005

Show Previews

Previews of industry trade show speakers, exhibits, conferences and events for manufacturing plant engineers and managers provided by plantengineering.com.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling November 1, 2005

Conveyor reducer has flange mounting

CFA700 Series direct mount, conveyor speed reducer has an output flange mounting style and eliminates loose parts normally required for installation. This compact unit eliminates mounting hardware and chain maintenance. The unit reduces maintenance costs by eliminating chain stretch and sprocket changeovers.

By Staff
Material Handling October 6, 2005

MAVERICK acquires GE Energy’s automation services business

MAVERICK Technologies, a US-based global systems integration and operational consulting company, announced the acquisition of the Automation Services business of GE Energy, expanding MAVERICK’s reach into new markets and augmenting its overall service offering. Paul J. Galeski, P.E., CAP, MAVERICK Chairman and CEO said, “The purchase of GE Energy’s Automation Services represents a strong strategic addition to our mix of automation, business and reliability solutions, and is an integral part of our long-term strategy for sustained growth. Also, the acquisition will allow us to take advantage of the many cross-selling opportunities to our expanded customer base, broaden our national footprint and enhance our global presence in the semiconductor, power generation, water and wastewater, pulp and paper, and automotive markets. “The primary benefit of this acquisition,” Galeski continued, “is the talented group of engineering, management and administrative professionals who will be coming on board as part of this transaction.

By Jack Smith
Material Handling September 1, 2005

The many faces of Lean Maintenance

Lean Maintenance is the application of Lean philosophy, tools and techniques to the maintenance function. It has the same goals as the application of Lean principles to the manufacturing function: eliminating wasted time, effort and material (and resulting cost) while improving throughput and quality.

By Bruce Hawkins, CMRP, CPMM, Life Cycle Engineering
Material Handling August 1, 2005

Material Handling – 2005-08-01 – 2005-08-01

Soft conveyor chain FlexLink conveyor chain is gentle on soft products and offers increased efficiency and service life, even in environments where dust and particulates are a problem. The chain features smooth surfaces and link interfaces for improved gentleness and minimum dust generation in product handling. The link interfaces are also designed to minimize dust intrusion to the conveyors. FlexLink www.flexlink.com Write 312 on PE card Modular rack security The company offers a new security option for its modular racking systems that provides part-containment when point-of-use racking systems are unmonitored on the plant floor.

By Staff
Material Handling July 1, 2005

Manufacturer’s alliance/MAPI report: Growth slows, but some sectors stay strong in 1Q

The quarterly Manufacturers Alliance/MAPI report on the health of the manufacturing sector offered a mixed bag of news for the first quarter of 2005. While it sees slowing growth in the sector over the next two years, only four of 27 industries surveyed showed declining business activity in the first quarter.

By Staff
Material Handling March 10, 2005

Manufacturing recovery on track, MAPI report finds

The manufacturing recovery continues on track and should be sustained through 2006, according to the Manufacturers Alliance/MAPI Quarterly Industrial Outlook, a report that analyzes 27 major industries. Fourth-quarter 2004 figures show that 24 of the 27 industries tracked in the report had inflation-adjusted new orders or production above the level of one year ago, equal to the number of indus...

By Staff
Material Handling March 10, 2005

Demand conditions favor sellers

Among 19 industries that contribute to our factory equipment and tools price index, 13 saw their average industry prices increase in 2004 at an accelerated pace. However, after averaging all these price hikes together, the PLANT ENGINEERING tools price index increased only 2.8% in 2004, up from a 1% inflation rate in 2003.

By Staff
Material Handling February 10, 2005

Solutions – 2005-02-10

Cutting with pipe nipples Problem : How can I quickly put bolt holes in replacement flange-type gaskets when a gasket cutter is not readily available? Solution : Take a pipe nipple with an ID close to the diameter of the bolt holes required and chamfer the end until sharp. Put the gasket on a piece of wood and strike the nipple with a hammer or use an arbor press to create the hole. This tip was originally published in September 1997 Gripping the slot Problem : Installing screws without having the screwdriver tip fall out of the head slot is often difficult. How can the screwdriver get a good grip? Solution : Place a socket over the screwdriver tip and insert the screw.

By Staff
Material Handling February 1, 2005

Success of ProMat 2005 Signals Improving Business Environment

Signaling an improving business environment, U.S. and international attendees registered in near-record numbers for ProMat 2005-the material handling and logistics industry's premier trade event. The Show and Conference is sponsored by the Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA). Participation in ProMat 2005 matched ProMat 2003 at just over 36,000.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling December 10, 2004

Winds of inflation blowing strong

Smell the whiff of inflation? In the 12-month period ending September 2004, the average cost to make factory equipment and tools jumped 5.6%. That's a sharp detour from the no-to-low inflation trend that had characterized the past 10 yr. By comparison, costs to make equipment and tools increased just 1.

By Staff
Material Handling August 9, 2004

Advancements in busways

Busway consists of a grounded metal enclosure, contains factory-mounted bare or insulated conductors, and is an effective means of distributing power. Busway was introduced in the early 1900s as a way to solve the automotive industry's need for a flexible power distribution system.

By Nathan Faulkner, Siemens Energy & Automation, Norcross, GA
Material Handling April 8, 2004

Selecting space heaters

Is the heating bill for your plant or warehouse too high? What about cold dock door areas and unbalanced temperatures? Is negative building air pressure a problem? Have you experienced employee complaints and lost productivity from heating or indoor air quality problems?

By Ken Williams, Cambridge Engineering, Chesterfield, MO.
Material Handling March 10, 2004

Solutions – 2004-03-10

Pipe freeze plug Problem : A pipe is leaking, and it is difficult to get to the valve to shut off flow. How can the leak be stopped until the valve can be reached and flow stopped? Solution : Wrap a piece of rubber around the leaking pipe. Clamp both ends around the pipe.

By Staff
Material Handling November 1, 2003

Reader Feedback – 2003-11-01 – 2003-11-01

Process industry automation users dissatisfied with production management strategies Today's automation users — regardless of vendor — are simply not getting the high-quality, in-context information needed to improve performance, make informed business decisions, and effectively manage risks, according to a recent study jointly performed by Invensys and Fieldbus, Inc.

By Staff
Material Handling October 10, 2003

Solutions – 2003-10-10

Safety First... In all cases, even if not specifically mentioned in the writeups, verify that the tip does not violate any relevant code, standard, or practice. Always use the appropriate safety equipment and procedures when applying the maintenance tips.

By Staff
Material Handling May 6, 2003

Embedded understanding

Do you ever feel like General Brooks at one of those Iraq war CENTCOM briefings? You know, you're trying to explain a complex project and the people in your audience keep asking those same, dumb, unrelated questions? Are they stupid, or ignorant, or just not listening, or what? Or are they trying to use your platform to advance their own agendas? If it hasn't happened to you, I know you've seen...

By Richard L. Dunn Editor
Material Handling April 28, 2003

Material Handling – 2003-04-28

Heavy load mover WeightCaddy is a walk-behind, battery-powered device designed to lift and move heavy loads around the shop.Unit can lift and haul loads to 2500 lb at speeds to 3 mph. DJ Products, Inc. djproducts.com Write 311 on PE card Bridge crane kits Overhead Crane Component Kits include everything necessary to build an overhead bridge crane except the structural cross girder, and are designed to let users do their own assembly.

By Staff
Material Handling March 15, 2003

Air Conditioning

Humidifiers Humid-A-Ware is humidifier software that takes the guesswork out of sizing and selecting humidifiers. This easy-to-use, interactive software works with Windows 9X, NT (4.0), 2000, and XP. It overcomes critical obstacles in building humidification schedules.

By Staff
Material Handling March 15, 2003

Motors industry to raise prices

After rising sharply in November, prices for motors and generators (SIC 3621) retreated 0.14% in December 2002. Prices for fractional horsepower engines, down 0.8%, led the deflationary charge. On the cost front, per-unit spending on manufacturing rose 0.3% thanks to a 1.4% jump in wages paid to factory floor workers.

By Staff
Material Handling February 15, 2003

Power Transmission – 2003-02-15

Maximize productivity The Reliability Maintenance Institute (RMI) program is a comprehensive offering of training courses designed to help plants eliminate machinery problems and achieve maximum reliability and productivity. Subjects covered include bearing maintenance and reliability, proactive reliability maintenance skills, and condition monitoring. Full-time schools are located in Philadelphia and San Diego.

By Staff
Material Handling January 15, 2003

Material Handling – 2003-01-15

Heavy load roller Tri-Glide three-point heavy load moving system creates a stable, secure platform to safely move heavy, cumbersome equipment. Steerable front swivel unit and adjustable-width, dual rear dolly units handle loads up to 6, 12, or 18 tons, depending on model. Steering/tow handle is easily removed for towing by lift truck.

By Staff
Material Handling December 15, 2002

Instead of loading dock, think material transfer zone

Plants today can no longer think of the loading dock in isolation. Instead, companies will benefit by treating the dock as part of a material transfer zone (MTZ) that plays a critical role when working to improve safety and productivity in the dock area.

By Walt Swietlik, Rite-Hite Corporation, Milwaukee, WI
Material Handling November 15, 2002

Material Handling – 2002-11-15

Click above to view 2002 Product of the Year finalists in this category.

By Staff
Material Handling November 15, 2002

HVAC – 2002-11-15

What you see Training program is dedicated to educating participants in Remote Visual Inspection (RVI) principles and applications in preparation for ASNT Level I and II certification. Boiler and pressure vessel codes all require NDT/Visual Testing technicians to meet ASNT's training requirements (SNT-TC-1A) recommended practice or similar guidelines. Everest VIT everest.com Write 325 on PE card Ducting applications A 16-p Flexible Hose & Ducting Guide catalog features a wide range of thermoplastic hose and ducting products for evacuating dust, dirt, and chips as well as light material handling applications.

By Staff
Material Handling November 15, 2002

Solutions – 2002-11-15 – 2002-11-15

Waterproofing wire connections • Problem: Many times, wire connections have to be made in underground or other damp locations. Is there a simple way to waterproof the connection and eliminate shorts or corrosion at the connection? • Solution: After twisting the wire connection together, squirt a little silicon cement into the wire nut. Make the connection as usual.

By Staff
Material Handling November 11, 2002

Contributor’s guide

PLANT ENGINEERING magazine depends on people like you to share their knowledge and insights for ensuring production capacity. Since its first issue in 1947, PLANT ENGINEERINGhas stood as the leading problem-solving information source for America's industrial plant engineers. It has won virtually every readership study in its field over the past 20 years and well over 100 studies in all.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling September 15, 2002

Handbook discusses materials selection

The Handbook of Materials Selection explores the full range of materials being used today, including metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites. Analytical approaches to materials selection and extensive information about the following are supplied: materials available in the marketplace, sources of properties data, procurement and data management, properties testing procedures and equipment,...

By Staff
Material Handling September 15, 2002

Cost Trends

Between March and June, prices for many key commodities have been on the rebound. The result: inflation has started to rear its ugly head, creating cost control concerns for many industries that make the equipment and tools that plant engineers use. For example, with prices for steel heating up, makers of materials handling equipment are beginning to experience an upturn in manufacturing costs.

By Staff
Material Handling August 8, 2002

Literature Offers – 2002-08-08

Pavement maintenance A pavement maintenance products catalog features a variety of asphalt and concrete coatings, crack sealants, line striping, marking and stenciling products, recreational color surfacing, tools, and safety supplies. The catalog is designed to help those responsible for maintaining parking lots and driveways with current projects and budgeting for future needs. Maintenance, Inc. maintinc.com Write 316 on PE card Bolting solutions "Solutions to Bolting Problems" contains technical information on mechanical stud/bolt tensioners, including high temperature designs, updated installation and removal procedures, and several application examples.

By Staff
Material Handling July 15, 2002

Achieving cost savings through lift truck fleet management

How much does the lift truck operation cost a company? If the first answer that comes to mind is equipment cost, you are in the majority because that is the initial reaction of most people when they consider how much was paid for their lift trucks. Companies do not always take into account the cost of operating, servicing, and administering the lift truck fleet.

By Warren Eck, Vice President-Yale Fleet Management, Yale Materials Handling Corp., Greenville, NC
Material Handling July 15, 2002

Melding certainty and change

Future Capable Company must manage certainty by establishing, accepting, and following standards of performance. When activities conform to well-established and clear standards, errors, disruptions, and crises are rare. Change is expected and is responded to smoothly. In the Future Capable Company, nobody believes Murphy's Law.

By James A. Tompkins, Ph.D., President, Tompkins Associates, Raleigh, NC
Material Handling June 15, 2002

Price inflation affects limited area

Pressure to hike prices remains relatively low. In the 12-month period ending March 2002, product price inflation accelerated in only four industries from the PLANT ENGINEERING factory equipment and tools roundup. Average prices for other hand and edge tools rose 5.6%, tags for pumps grew 2.7%, welding apparatus prices rose 1.

By Staff
Material Handling December 15, 2001

What every plant engineer should know about selecting software

Because of features such as improved ease of use, web-enabled functionality, the ability to integrate applications across the enterprise, and much more, software is providing plant engineers with excellent assistance for everything from project management to stress analysis, and from CMMS to CAD.

By Jack Smith, Senior Editor, Plant Engineering Magazine
Material Handling August 1, 2001

Product Intros – 2001-08-01

LED lamps have screw bases S6 candelabra-screw based LED lamps are designed to replace S6 candelabra-screw based lamps in miniature industrial control panels. The lamps are offered in two types: single and multichip, which provides light even if one or more emitters fail. Colors available are green, white, blue, yellow, red, and orange.

By Staff
Material Handling July 12, 2001

Partnership to improve automation controls and plant line inspections

Entivity and Cognex to integrate PC-based automation and control software with machine vision sensors 

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling June 1, 2001

Literature Offers – 2001-06-01

Horizontal carousels A 6-p brochure describes how an organization can increase order picking throughput up to 600% with nearly 100% accuracy, while reducing cubic storage space requirements 40–60% with horizontal carousels. These carousels are horizontally rotating shelves suspended from guide tracks that move at the operator's command.

By Staff
Material Handling June 1, 2001

Improving ergonomics with workstation cranes

Key concepts Ergonomic equipment must be properly applied to create a workplace where employees can comfortably and safely perform their duties. Enclosed-track bridge cranes provide effortless movement of loads throughout the horizontal axis. There are several factors to considering when selecting a workstation crane, including type, capacity, suspension/mounting, motorized or manual, and h...

By Jeff McNeil, Gorbel, Inc., Fishers, NY
Material Handling May 1, 2001

Fundamental steps in safe door operation

Key concepts High-speed doors boost productivity, while helping isolate specific plant areas. Quicker forklift travel and faster-acting doors create safety concerns. Industrial door accidents fall into four categories: entrapment, downward impact, lateral impact, and secondary impact. It happens time-after-time in plants across the country.

By Kevin King, Rite-Hite Doors, Inc., Milwaukee, WI
Material Handling March 1, 2001

Machine tool accessories prices rising

Of the 19 industries tracked here as manufacturers of equipment and tools used in factories, average prices went up in 11 industries, fell in 4, and were flat in 4 others.

By Staff
Material Handling February 1, 2001

2001 The National Plant Engineering Show

As part of National Manufacturing Week (NMW), the 2001 National Plant Engineering MRO & Management Show bands together with three others-National Industrial Enterprise IT, National Industrial Automation, and National Design Engineering-to offer the very best in the manufacturing industry as a whole. Last year, NMW attracted almost 56,000 manufacturing professionals. More than 94% of those in attendance planned to return for the 2001 event. The "Plant Show" is the premier showcase for buyers and sellers of products related to the plant engineering market. And what an event it will be! Pavilions Eight specialty product pavilions are contained within the Show. Buildings and grounds-This pavilion highlights the latest technology and solutions designed to make this critical maintenance task easier, faster, and more efficient. Energy management and power-In this pavilion, find out how to keep power quality high and energy costs low.

By Staff
Material Handling February 1, 2001

Suggestions and Solutions – 2001-02-01

Get the scoop on construction Facilities Construction Cost Data 2001 is available in book and CostWorks 2001 CD-ROM format.

By Staff
Material Handling December 1, 2000

Strong demand may cause supply problems

Plant engineers may find that buying factory equipment and tools is getting a bit tougher these days.

By Staff
Material Handling September 1, 2000

Buyers should target hoists & pumps

Plant engineers can find some excellent negotiation opportunities among suppliers of factory equipment. That's because slowing end-market demand and high margins make suppliers vulnerable to the aggressive buyer.

By Staff
Material Handling August 1, 2000

Applying modular plastic conveyor belts

Key concepts These belts handle corrosion, tracking, and sanitation problems. Speed, impact resistance, application temperature, and required life help determine the proper belt design.

By Paul L. Horton, Intralox, Harahan, LA
Material Handling August 1, 2000

Maintenance Tips & Tricks – 2000 – #17

Draining batteryProblem: A lift truck battery (or any other) has a component causing a slow power drain. How can I find the problem? Solution: Put a test light with the same voltage rating as the battery in series. The light will come on, then pull fuses out until the light goes off.

By Plant Engineering Staff
Material Handling March 1, 2000

Portable drum handlers

A line of multifunction, portable drum handlers is featured in a 28-p catalog. The units move and handle drums in sizes from 30-55-gal. The publication provides product photos, dimensional drawings, performance data, and benefits.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 2000

Safety supplies

Industrial Supplies Buyer's Guide offers more than 2000 pp of information on safety supplies. The catalog is a one-stop resource for all safety needs, including hand tools, first aid, storage, material handling products, and more.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 2000

Exploring Plant Engineering’s Biggest Show

The 51st annual National Plant Engineering MRO & Management Show & Conference is geared to help engineering professionals explore the future of industry.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 2000

Steel over wood and plastic

Payback Pallet is constructed of galvanized steel to meet the material handling needs of almost any industry.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 2000

Material handling carts

A line of nonmotorized carts is designed to handle a variety of material handling needs. The carts consist of plasticw decks mounted on steel frames for maximum durability. Rehrig Intl.www.rehrig.com

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 2000

Implementing a successful crossdocking operation

Key concepts The best way to reduce costs and improve efficiency is to eliminate a function, not just improve it.

By Burt Schaffer
Material Handling March 1, 2000

Lift trucks – 2000-03-01 – 2000-03-01

The G/D40S series of LP and diesel-powered pneumatic tire lift trucks are featured in an 8-p brochure. The vehicles contain large engines that provide high torque at low speeds, making them well suited to heavy-duty material handling jobs.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 2000

Hand carts

A new line of all-welded carts and trucks helps users to select application specific solutions to material handling problems, such as transferring heavy dies, delicate instruments, or cartons. Lyon Metal ProductsBoo

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 2000

Carts offer material handling solutions

A line of all-welded carts and trucks addresses a wide variety of common material handling applications. The carts enable users to select application specific solutions to material handling problems.

By Staff
Material Handling February 1, 2000

Handle heavy-duty drums

Model 6100 drum handling, fork lift attachment has a carbon steel frame and exclusive clamping mechanism for handling loads up to 1000 lb.

By Staff
Material Handling February 1, 2000

Material handling hose

Brochure describes the advantages of using hose as an alternative to steel piping for material handling applications. The hose offers longer wear, vibration absorption, self-alignment, corrosion resistance, and easy installation. Linatex, Inc.

By Staff
Material Handling January 1, 2000

Electric walkie

A 6-p brochure provides technical information for a 4000-lb capacity all-purpose walkie lift truck. The vehicle is designed with many features for operator comfort, including a new control handle with ergonomic twist grips.

By Staff
Material Handling December 1, 1999

RCFA + RCM = formula for successful maintenance

Over the past few years, I have heard many people say they were interested in performing reliability centered maintenance (RCM) or root cause failure analysis (RCFA) on a piece of equipment or a system.

By Mark Latino
Material Handling November 1, 1999

Control monitors overload on conveyor drive

Jam Manager control senses motor current draw to allow a chip conveyor on a metal cutting machine tool to automatically reverse to clear minor jams caused by a buildup. The control reduces downtime and minimizes operator/maintenance time.

By Staff
Material Handling October 1, 1999

Lift trucks – 1999-10-01

Material Handling Solutions guide features specifications for 90 lift truck models designed to handle loads from 200-33,000 lb. The product line includes electric and internal combustion trucks with pneumatic or cushion tires.

By Staff
Material Handling October 1, 1999

Got a lift? Get a part

LiftPartners is a lift truck parts program with real answers to today's fork lift realities. Parts for all makes and models of lift trucks, whether it's a heavy-duty reach truck, low-lift pallet jack, late model, or old workhorse, is available.

By Staff
Material Handling September 1, 1999

Storage and handling

An 8-p brochure combines actual warehouse photography with detailed diagrams to display numerous material handling storage systems. Product listing offers a wide range of options for creating a system for any storage application.

By Staff
Material Handling September 1, 1999

Material handling equipment

Catalog highlights a wide variety of material handling products, including drum handling equipment, hand trucks, lift equipment, platform trucks and carts, and related products.

By Staff
Material Handling August 1, 1999

Carts and shelving

A 40-p catalog describes a variety of material handling and storage systems, including heavyweight wire carts and shelving. Gillis Associated Industries

By Staff
Material Handling August 1, 1999

Plant engineering and beyond

Last month's Web Update ("Your resource for a better you") called attention to resources available on or through Plant Engineering Online (www.plantengineering.

By Len O'Neal
Material Handling July 1, 1999

Janitorial supplies

Janitorial supplies of all kinds are the subject of a 116-p catalog.

By Staff
Material Handling July 1, 1999

Exposing the hidden costs at door openings

In the competitive global market, efficiency is no longer a luxury -- it is a critical component of successful companies.

By Kevin King
Material Handling June 1, 1999

Conveyors

An indepth review of capabilities, products, and services for conveyors and material handling is provided by a 6-p brochure.

By Staff
Material Handling June 1, 1999

Supplies and equipment

A 580-p catalog covers a broad range of supplies and equipment.

By Staff
Material Handling June 1, 1999

Information on the web

Plant Engineering Online offers information on a wide variety of topics of interest to plant engineers.

By Staff
Material Handling May 1, 1999

Is lost seniority reclaimable?

When 16-yr veteran maintenance employee Floyd Loftis was diagnosed with a heart condition 3-yr ago, he was transferred on his doctor's recommendation from his heavy material handling job to a non-union clerical post.

By Raymond Dreyfack
Material Handling May 1, 1999

Charger handles flooded and sealed batteries

SCRFLX chargers recharge flooded lift truck batteries, The chargers can be upgraded at any time to recharge absorbed electrolyte sealed, maintenance-free batteries. The 43 models in single and three-phase power have amp-hour ratings from 260-1450.

By Staff
Material Handling May 1, 1999

Crane hoists

Hoists for heavy-duty Class D and E crane applications are shown in a 4-p color brochure. The hoist units depicted are available in capacities from 10-150 tons and have an open winch design that is easily adapted for special lifts and needs.

By Staff
Material Handling April 1, 1999

Material handling – 1999-04-01

A brochure describes how a company's automation expertise is being applied to material handling needs. Skills listed include project management, simulation analysis, software engineering, value engineering, and financial analysis.

By Staff
Material Handling April 1, 1999

Flexible conveyor features simple design

TBC-24 zero-pressure accumulation conveyor features a plug-and-play design for maximum layout flexibility and easy, low-cost startup and maintenance. Each unit in the modular conveyor system is self contained, with its own drive and control.

By Staff
Material Handling April 1, 1999

Without safety shorts you’re exposed

Short, attention-grabbing safety videos not only save time and money, but are proven to help reduce accident rates as much as 90% within 1 yr. The videos run 5-7 min.

By Staff
Material Handling April 1, 1999

Software automates, manages inventory

AutoTrak full-featured warehouse management system is designed for manufacturing and distribution facilities. The system automates and manages inventory and labor tracking using radio frequency data collection devices and bar code technology.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 1999

Conveyor rollers

Series 1.700 conveyor rollers feature a polyethylene surface that prevent the pickup and hardening of problematical litho inks, glue, and dust from freshly printed cartons and provide maintenance free operation in packaging operations.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 1999

Meeting OSHA fork lift regs

Three video-based training packages that meet OSHA requirements cover the safe operation of sitdown rider, standup truck, and pallet trucks.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 1999

Material handling plus

A 580-p catalog lists supplies and equipment for material storage and handling, shop use, safety, shipping, dock areas, maintenance, and office use.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 1999

Power and free conveyors

Rapid Flow-Plus 434 power-and-free conveyor systems can be configured for virtually any material handling need. The conveyor features accumulating heavy-duty flat wheeled free trolleys and free track.Rapid Industries, Inc. www.rapid.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 1999

Batteries increase lift truck zip

Absolyte sealed, maintenance-free batteries are used to power narrow-aisle lift trucks.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 1999

Spotlight On Chicago

The 50th annual National Plant Engineering Show is more exciting than ever, with new pavilions, first-rate conference program, and exciting speakers and special events.

By Staff
Material Handling February 1, 1999

Ladders and lifts

A 32-p catalog profiles 10 lines of ladders and over 300 OSHA-compliant products. Included are work platforms, portable stacking racks, cylinder cabinets, partitions, aerial lift platforms, and carts.

By Staff
Material Handling January 1, 1999

Material handling – 1999-01-01

A 416-p material handling catalog is packed with products to stack, store, move, and organize virtually everything in the workplace. Included are carts, shelving, cabinets, dock equipment, shipping supplies, and more. Lab Safety Supply, Inc.

By Staff
Material Handling December 1, 1998

Maintenance supplies

A 692-p catalog covers maintenance tools, equipment, and supplies.

By Staff
Material Handling December 1, 1998

Safety interlock switches are undefeatable

Hinge safety interlock switches provide undefeatable protection in material handling and assembly operations. The switches initiate a machine-stop sequence when applied to hinged guard doors and protective access flaps. Allen-Bradley

By Staff
Material Handling December 1, 1998

Lift truck maneuvers in tight space

Space Champ lift truck has a tight turning radius, allowing operators to maneuver well within small aisles and confined areas. Wet-disk brakes are entirely maintenance-free and withstand severe loading over long periods without wear or fading.

By Staff
Material Handling October 1, 1998

Ergonomic handling

A 49-p brochure covers a line of ergonomic material handling systems.

By Staff
Material Handling October 1, 1998

Storage options

More than 50 new storage and workplace additions to an already extensive line are introduced in a 148-p catalog.

By Staff
Material Handling October 1, 1998

What’s stopping you?

Granted, some association websites require membership to access certain information, but don't let that stop you from browsing around a site. Many sites offer plenty of valuable content well before any encounters with a registration page.

By Len O'Neal
Material Handling September 1, 1998

Locks without keys

Autolock password system limits access to material handling equipment such as lift trucks, walkies, narrow aisle trucks, construction equipment, and personnel carriers to authorized employees only.

By Staff
Material Handling September 1, 1998

AGVs

AGV material handling equipment is presented in a 6-p brochure. A full line of modular-design AGVs is covered, including unit load, fork-type, towing, and low profile.

By Staff
Material Handling September 1, 1998

Have pallet will travel

Pallets Move the World...With Your Help is a 10-min training video on the proper way to move, stack, and store pallets using fork trucks.

By Staff
Material Handling September 1, 1998

Conveyor chain pins reduce stretch

Smooth-Link (TM) conveyor chain pins have a smooth wear bearing surface to reduce chain stretch. Benefits include longer chain life, no breakin period, and exact pitch location, which results in lower maintenance costs and reduced downtime. Frost, Inc.

By Staff
Material Handling August 1, 1998

Material handling – 1998-08-01

A 40-p material handling and storage products buyer's guide includes a wide variety of items.

By Staff
Material Handling August 1, 1998

Sprockets and gears

A 12-p maintenance and troubleshooting guide covers chain and gear drives, couplings, synchronous drives, V-belt drives, and screw conveyors.

By Staff
Material Handling July 1, 1998

Below-the-hook equipment

A product selection guide details a full line of custom designed below-the-hook material handling equipment. Along with illustrations and brief descriptions, the 4-p piece references free technical data sheets available for each type of product.

By Staff
Material Handling June 1, 1998

When you need a pallet

The 1998 NWPCA Buyer's Guide helps pallet, container, and reel users locate suppliers who can provide solutions for their material handling needs.

By Staff
Material Handling June 1, 1998

Belts with backings

Polyurethane timing belts for conveying, positioning, and material handling applications come with a wide variety of heat bonded backings to provide wear resistance and resilience.

By Staff
Material Handling June 1, 1998

Conveyor keeps a low profile

An 8-min video features standard low profile conveyor capabilities for innovative material handling solutions. The video highlights actual applications showing conveyor benefits in a metal stamping operation, packaging system, and clean room.

By Staff
Material Handling June 1, 1998

New tire technology

A new bead seal technology allows material handling and industrial tires to be fitted for the first time with tubeless radials on tube-type rims.

By Staff
Material Handling June 1, 1998

Conveyor system offers limitless combinations

Flow-Plus 4X4 power-and-free conveyor system components can be arranged in a limitless number of combinations to create a system for virtually any material handling need. The conveyor features accumulating trolleys which control carrier movement.

By Staff
Material Handling June 1, 1998

Producer prices continue to fall

Trends in the government's Producer Price Index (PPI) continue to make a mockery of concerns about inflation. The PPI for finished goods declined 0.3% in March, and was 1.8% lower during March 1998 than in March 1997.

By Staff
Material Handling May 1, 1998

Lift truck brakes

The lift truck industry's only oil-cooled disc brake system is described in a 4-p brochure. Significant improvements in braking efficiency, added stopping power, and reduced maintenance costs are detailed.

By Staff
Material Handling May 1, 1998

Narrow aisle truck offers improved performance

NR-AD standup, narrow aisle lift truck is available in capacities from 3500-4500 lb.

By Staff
Material Handling May 1, 1998

Trade deficit expanded, but export growth still strong in 1997

Last year was another bad one for the nation's balance of payments. The trade deficit increased to about $114 billion, its highest level since 1988.

By Staff
Material Handling April 1, 1998

Storage containers

Parts bins, material handling containers, storage files, specialty items, and accessories are detailed in a 42-p catalog. The publication provides comprehensive specifications and samples of four container materials. Convoy, Inc. www.convoycontainers.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 1998

Power and free conveyor

Rapid Flow-Plus 434 power and free conveyor system can be arranged into an unlimited number of combinations to handle virtually any material handling need. Trolleys carry loads up to 2400 lb. Rapid Industries, Inc. www.rapidi.com

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 1998

Moving loads safely

Employer's Guide to Material Handling Safety is a 40-p booklet containing up-to-date information on equipment, maintenance, and procedures.

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 1998

Tow-line conveyors

Heavy-duty, tow-line conveyors are designed to handle a wide range of material handling needs. Webb-Stiles Co. www.webb-stiles.com

By Staff
Material Handling March 1, 1998

Operating safely overhead

The Fundamentals of Overhead Crane Safety training program includes a 45- min video and nine other essential items necessary to successfully develop an inhouse safety program.

By Staff
Material Handling January 1, 1998

Get a one-track mind

Guidelines For Specifying...Automated Electrified Monorail Systems is a 15-p publication that serves as a guide in the selection, design, planning, and implementation of automated electrified monorail systems. The Material Handling Institute

By Staff
Material Handling January 1, 1998

Hose and cable carriers

Sizing information, dimensions, and specifications for hose and cable carriers designed for machine tool, robotic automation, and material handling applications are presented in a 6-p brochure.

By Staff
Material Handling January 1, 1998

Taking A Systematic Approach To Planning Plant Moves

Conducting a plant move is an enormous undertaking from both a mental and financial point of view. Many factors and requirements must be considered. This article offers guidelines on how to plan, execute, and manage a facilities move via truck.

By Wesley Cummins
Material Handling January 1, 1998

Push back racks

A 6-p foldout brochure explains the benefits of push back systems over traditional selective racks and drive in, drive through approaches. Storage space improvements of as much as 100% are shown.

By Staff

A Letter From The Editor

Since 1947, plant engineers, plant managers, maintenance supervisors and manufacturing leaders have turned to Plant Engineering for the information they needed to run their plants smarter, safer, faster and better. Plant Engineering's editors stay on top of the latest trends in manufacturing at every corner of the plant floor. The major content areas include electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automation engineering and maintenance and management.

Amara Rozgus - Plant Engineering