Author: kgribbins

America’s equipment manufacturing industry applauds the President for recognizing the vital importance of infrastructure investment to the long-term strength and competitiveness of our country. What America needs -- and what voters want -- is the Administration and Congress to work in partnership right now to finally pass a transportation reauthorization bill that will address longstanding safety and quality issues, and put Americans back to work. 

Investing in the rebuilding and modernization of our nation's roads, railways, runways and transit systems is a strategy that Democrats and Republicans alike should be clamoring to support. Instead, Congress has let a six-year bill expire while America falls behind other nations that are building infrastructure for future competition in the global marketplace. In the short term, this has and will continue to cost American jobs. In the long-term, it will cost us our competitive advantage -- and even more jobs. 

While the President’s plan for an Infrastructure Bank and increased capacity in our infrastructure system is an important step, Congress has the opportunity to act now on transportation reauthorization that will result in immediate job creation. We need a strategic vision for modernizing our country’s infrastructure, and leaders with the courage to make it happen. We need Congress to pass a transportation bill, and they need to come together on a robust, multi-faceted and sustainable way to pay for it, including consideration of a user fee increase. Maybe this is not the most popular policy stance in an election year, but there is no such thing as a safe road built by American workers for free.

This is a statement from Dennis Slater, President of the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Visits them online at http://www.aem.org/.

You don’t have to look good to get a job done well, but it doesn’t hurt. Continuing to lead the market in helmet graphics, Miller delivers its latest design which is making contractors look cool while being ultra safe, blending military and outdoor inspiration with all the convenient features of the Digital Elite Series. The Digital Camo helmet offers four unique fabrication modes, a long battery life, a lightning-fast lens speed of 1/20,000 second and list price of $389 (U.S.)

Highlights/Key Facts:
1. Weld, Cut, Grind and X-Mode provide for versatility in the field
2. Manual-On and Auto-Off allow user to take full advantage of the 3,000 hour battery life
3. The 9.22-sq in. viewing field houses four independent arc sensors for an intuitive and broad scope of vision
4. Helmet offers variable shade #8-13, light state #3
5, Magnifying lens holder included

This new military-inspired camouflage design offers a unique graphic that appeals to a wide range of welders -- from supporters of the armed forces to outdoor enthusiasts. Features such as the Weld, Cut, Grind and X-Modes of the Digital Elite Series helmets are ideal for professionals and hobbyists who frequently Stick, MIG, TIG and plasma cut.
The Digital Camo helmet is available through welding supply distributors in the United States and Canada

Building on Miller’s functionality, the Digital Elite series is designed for professional welders demanding control, flexibility and durability, while remaining lightweight (only 18 oz.). Digital Elite helmets feature the precision of a digital control that allows users to set and store their shade, sensitivity and delay preferences for various applications: Welding shades 8-13, Cutting shades 5-8, Grinding shade 3 and X-Mode shades 8-13.

The X-Mode provides full protection for those instances when there is an arc present, but the sensors are obscured.  X-Mode eliminates interference from sunlight and out-of-position welding angles, such as those found in pipe welding or in obstructed or hidden-cavity welds — it also excels at low-amperage TIG welding (5 amps and below). When activated, those four arc sensors that come standard with the Auto-Off feature, respond in 1/20,000 of a second, allowing for complete eye protection.

The important thing about a problem is not its solution, but the strength we gain in finding that solution. For over three decades, Maxwell Systems Inc. has been helping professional contractors grow stronger with smart solutions. In fact, the company is celebrating 35 years of software innovation, education and support, a time where it’s helped construction businesses of varying sizes and specialties, as well as property management and development companies, streamline their operations.

As a leading provider of complete construction business management software solutions, Maxwell Systems is dedicated to providing its customers with the innovative solutions to gain end-to-end control of their critical business processes and maximize profitability.

With 35 years of leadership and a commitment to customers that’s unparalleled, Maxwell Systems is established as the go-to partner for more than 10,000 companies who rely on it for the software, services, and support they need to run successful businesses.
 
"We measure our success by the success of the contractors using our software, and as they have faced many economic obstacles and challenges in the ever-changing construction market, we have focused on providing them with the necessary solutions to help them run as lean as possible and do more with less," said Jim Flynn, president and CEO of Maxwell Systems. "Our team prides itself on thoroughly understanding our customers' challenges and continually striving to deliver and improve our offerings to help them each run a successful business.

“To that end, we invest in research and development to deliver better solutions to help them realize maximum performance and profitability from bid-to-cash, as well as provide comprehensive support and training to help them reach optimal return on their technology investment. Thirty-five years is a milestone for us and stands as a testament to Maxwell Systems' long-standing financial stability and the venerable leadership behind the products and services we deliver. We are well-positioned to continue to grow and look forward to exceeding customers' expectations well into the future."
 
Since it was founded, Maxwell Systems has won numerous awards for its innovative products and services, as well as its financial growth and strong leadership. Some of its more recent recognitions include: Constructech's Hottest Companies, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Top Workplaces, Deloitte's Greater Philadelphia Technology Fast 50, Constructech's Top New Product and Top Enhanced Product, AHR Expo Innovation Product, Roads & Bridges Contractor's Choice Awards, World of Concrete's Most Innovative Product and Favorite Product, and NECA's Innovation Award.

New Jersey contracting firm J.H. Reid wanted a wheel loader that would allow it to work in Brooklyn, N.Y., under current and future emissions rules. John Deere responded and offered the firm a solution: the new 304-hp 744K four-wheel drive loader, the construction industry’s first IT4-certified iron over 175 hp. Reid took delivery in late August and immediately put the loader to work on a $125-million pre-cast bridge job for the New Jersey DOT in Highlands.

“The bridge job is just a dress rehearsal,” said Eric Reid, president of J.H. Reid. “The loader is supporting us right now by working around the crusher with a bucket and carrying construction materials around the site with forks,” Reid said.

It won’t be there long. This month the 744K will head to Brooklyn, New York’s Hamilton Avenue waste transfer station, where New York City Best Available Control Technology emissions rules are in effect.

“Everybody knows IT4 is the future,” Reid said. “For us it’s all about the ability to work in New York City, and I didn’t want to invest in something that would be obsolete in six months. Deere’s IT4 unit availability allowed us to think long-term.”

The 744K IT4-certified engine is Deere’s response to customers who need the highest emission Tier available for bid emissions specifications and green construction sites, or who work in non-attainment areas.

The John Deere PowerTech 9.0-L IT4 diesel engine for the 744K was certified by the EPA in March 2010. It uses cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) technology to meet emissions regulations while producing the same 304 hp and torque as a 744K equipped with a Tier 3 engine.

Deere’s chosen technology path for meeting IT4 emissions is cooled EGR with an exhaust filter. This simple solution uses a single fluid (diesel) to eliminate storage and temperature concerns. EGR has been field-proven in a variety of customer applications and is now on the job for the long haul in The Big Apple.

When it comes to Compact Equipment contractors, Rhino Linings Corp. makes high-tech linings aimed at protecting your hardworking truck -- polyurethane, polyurea, polyaspartic and epoxy coatings. Now the company is looking to expand its operations (which actually includes everything from military to floor coatings) with a new range of high-tech equipment.

Yesterday, Rhino announced the acquisition of Tobin Mfg. LLC, a leading manufacturer of two component positive displacement meter/mix/dispense equipment. Tobin equipment dispenses polyurethane elastomers, epoxies and foams into molds for high volume production. The acquisition provides Rhino with a wider customer base and a stronger market position in the polyurethane industry.

“This acquisition strengthens our commitment and position as one of the leading polyurethane systems houses. Tobin Manufacturing’s equipment portfolio fits well with our existing plans for expansion into the custom molding industry. We see great potential in this part of the industry,” said Pierre Gagnon, president and CEO of Rhino Linings Corp.
 
Tobin designs and manufactures easy-to-maintain dispensing equipment using positive displacement piston rod metering pumps feeding dynamic, static or impingement mixers for processing temperature controlled or hot cast products. This equipment is typically used for casting or injection molding castor wheels, fuel tank liners, automotive body styling kit components, foam and elastomer filter gaskets, rotationally molded mannequins and myriad other parts.

Tobin will relocate its operations to the Rhino facilities in San Diego, Calif.

Busy contractors and dealers don’t always have time to watch their favorite NASCAR competitors capture checkered flags, but that doesn’t mean they still can’t enjoy a little racing fun. Briggs & Stratton has just introduced a high-octane way to bring industry people together online for a little friendly NASCAR competition and a chance to win some big prizes.

The Vanguard Power Chase is a “pick‘em” style contest where competitors choose drivers throughout the final 10 races of the stock car season, which begins September 19, 2010. Points are awarded based on where drivers finish. There’s more at stake than just bragging rights, though. The prize list is topped by a four-day trip for two to stock car racing’s premier 2011 event.

“We were looking for a fun way to say thank you to the dealers and customers who have contributed to the growing success of Vanguard engines,” said Dan Roche, marketing manager for Briggs & Stratton Commercial Power. “Vanguard engines are about power and durability, and nothing exemplifies that better than stock car racing.”

Everything needed to sign up and compete can be found at www.VanguardPowerChase.com. Participants can sign up any time between now and September 19, to maximize the odds of winning. Vanguard Power Chase Prizes:

1. Grand Prize: A four-day trip for two to stock car racing’s premier 2011 event
2. Second Place Prize: A six-person full day experience at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving in Phoenix, Ariz.
3. Third Place Prize (Five Awarded): One year online interactive racing membership and PC-compatible force-feedback steering wheel
4. Fourth Place Prize (10 Awarded): Four-pack supertickets for a race of your choice at Road America
5. Fifth Place Prize (100 Awarded): Vanguard Power Chase T-shirt and hat
6. Sixth Place Prize (50 Awarded): $10 gas card
7. Weekly Prizes: Authentic licensed NASCAR memorabilia
 
Disclaimer: This program is not affiliated, endorsed or otherwise recognized by or in association with any drivers, teams, NASCAR or any other automotive/sports entity.

The Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) today criticized a Sept. 2 ruling by the Democrat-appointed majority of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) on the practice of union “bannering” at secondary employers’ business sites. In consolidated cases known as United Brotherhood of Carpenters Local No. 1506 (Aug. 27, 2010), the NLRB determined in a 3-2 split decision that bannering is protected speech under federal labor law.

“Those who engage in bannering routinely use secondary pressure against neutral customers to coerce them into hiring only unionized contractors, regardless of merit. The NLRB failed to apply longstanding laws against secondary union activity that are supposed to prohibit confrontational union conduct aimed at neutral parties,” said 2010 ABC national chairman Jim Elmer, founder and president of James W. Elmer Construction Co., Spokane, Wash. “The board’s action ignores the reality of the construction workplace and will no doubt embolden and encourage more unions to incorporate this practice into aggressive and irresponsible ‘corporate campaigns.’”

“For decades, the ranks of construction industry unions have been dwindling, which is reflected in the fact that today, only 15 percent of construction workers belong to a union,” Elmer said. “As ABC’s members know all too well, bannering is a desperate attempt to regain market share by unfairly targeting nonunion construction companies, regardless of the wishes of their employees, and seeking to drive these firms out of certain markets by coercing their neutral customers. With a current unemployment rate of 17 percent, there is simply no place for this disruptive and destructive practice in the construction industry.

“At this time of economic challenges, it is unfortunate that the new pro-union appointees to the NLRB have chosen to turn the clock back 60 years, to a time when secondary boycotts threatened to paralyze the industry and stifle job growth,” said Elmer. “Regardless of the board’s decision, ABC members will not be deterred from their dedication to the merit shop philosophy of full and open competition, regardless of labor affiliation.”

Bannering, or the display of large signs often contain misleading claims at sites belonging to neutral parties or secondary employers, is a tactic used by unions across the country to threaten or coerce these firms into hiring unionized contractors.

Safety is something that happens between your ears, not something you hold in your hands. Nortrax knows the importance of a smart and safe work environment. The John Deere construction and forestry equipment dealer, operating throughout North America, has surpassed six million working hours without a lost time injury. Nortrax employees have successfully performed more than 24 continuous months of work without any of its employees having missed a day of work due to a workplace injury. That's amazing.

“We believe that safety is vital to our ongoing success,” explains Tim Murphy, president and CEO of Nortrax. “We will continue to develop and implement safety procedures and training programs that will keep Nortrax employees healthy, safe and productive, every day.”

Many years of focusing efforts on safety and wellness have made Nortrax one of the safest construction and forestry dealerships in North America. Nortrax’s new safety initiatives include: utilizing best practices from specific dealers and regions; developing training partnerships; obtaining additional safety certifications; and expanding its wellness campaign. 

To further their efforts of creating a safe work environment, the U.S. and Canadian divisions of Nortrax formed the North American Safety Council in Spring 2010.  Represented by a cross-section of Nortrax departments and regions, the goals of this council are three-fold: to recruit the safest employees, demonstrate safety as one of the company’s core values during orientation and training and to promote an improved wellness program.

By promoting this internal safety culture, not only is Nortrax able to send each and every employee home safely every day, they are also able to serve customers more productively and efficiently. 

The U.S. National Safety Council (NSC) recently recognized Nortrax as a 2009 Industry Leader, and presented the international dealership with the 2009 Occupational Excellence Achievement Award. The NSC’s Industry Leader Awards recognize the top companies within their industry that provide an outstanding number of safe work hours recorded and a commitment to safety in the workplace. 

Nortrax is the largest John Deere dealership group for construction, mining and forestry equipment in North America, and extends across the eastern and central portions of the United States and Canada. More information about Nortrax is available at www.nortrax.com and via phone at 1-866-366-8722.

Last year, Ron Schara Productions and Polaris Industries forged a partnership with “Destination Polaris,” a program about the passions of America’s off-road riders. The first season brought viewers a great variety of off-road adventure and due to popularity, the show is back for a second season.

From diehard hunters to weekend riders, "Destination Polaris" is the authority on ATVs and UTVs. Last season, hosts Jared Christie and Laura Schara, rode along with off-road enthusiasts to discover remote destinations and the best of North America’s trail systems, including riding deep in Alaska’s bush country, experiencing the endless sand dunes of Southern California and journeying through Northern Ontario’s largely undiscovered fall trails. "Destination Polaris"’ second season promises to take viewers to more unforgettable destinations such as the beautiful “Big Sky Country” of Montana, a journey around Lake Superior and the gorgeous trails of Utah to give them a riding experience like no other.

“Polaris is a company founded and led by off-road riders, so the riding experience is very important to us,” said Jan Rintamaki, marketing director of the Polaris Off-Road Division. “'Destination Polaris' brings our passion for off-road riding to Outdoor Channel viewers so they can share our culture and love for the outdoors.”  

"Destination Polaris" airs on Outdoor Channel, on Mondays at 6:30 and 9:30 p.m., and Tuesdays at 2:30 a.m. Eastern Time. For more information on the show, go to www.destinationpolaris.com.

Doosan Portable Power has decades of experience engineering mobile power and light sources of all sizes. Lately, the company's been concentrating on shrinking the smart technologies of their bigger units into a smaller and concise package.

Enter the LSC (LightSource Compact), designed with class-leading durability and reliability to meet the rigorous standards of smaller rental and construction markets. The new LSC is ideal for illumination of special events, road and bridge construction, emergency and disaster relief and general construction sites. The LSC portable light tower focuses on features in a compact platform, great for jobsite mobility as well as truckload maximization with eleven fully-assembled units on a standard flatbed for cost-effective transportation. The LSC also utilizes up to 20 percent less space during storage and full operational deployment on a jobsite compared to the industry average, while maintaining its wind stability, static roll threshold and 30-ft extension capabilities.

Four 1,000-watt metal-halide floodlights provide a NEMA 6 x 7 beam spread for better light distribution and area coverage. The fixture design with a side-mounted/horizontally positioned bulb in each rectangular floodlight provides broad light distribution of 460 foot-candles. Cast-aluminum fixture housings include a separate reflector that lowers the risk of disruptive light distribution and offers a robust light. The small footprint of the floodlights reduces wind load.

The heavy-duty galvanized steel tower of the LSC extends from 12 to 30 ft and the mast is raised by dual, hand-operated winches and an automatic safety brake. Curly cord protection within the steel shroud along the first section of the tower prevents pinch or puncture damage. At full mast and with all four outrigger/jacks secured, the unit will withstand winds up to 65 mph. The telescoping tower can be rotated 360 degrees and locked into position for precise aiming of floodlights. For traveling and storage, a patented system automatically locks the tower into place when in the horizontal position.

The LSC light tower is equipped with a Mitsubishi L3E 1,800-rpm water-cooled Tier 4 Final engine. The engine, along with a 4.5-kW generator and 27 gal fuel tank, provides up to 52 hours of continuous operation. The new light tower is backed by an industry-leading factory warranty providing 2-year/2,000-hour bumper-to-bumper coverage.

Options available for the LSC include dual electric winches with an automatic safety stop, a low fuel shutdown with indicator light and a block heater. Two optional hitches are also available -- a combination hitch with a 2 ½-in. pintle eye and a 2-in. ball or a hitch with a 3-in. pintle eye.