Aquatics International articles from January 2006

Aquatics International archives from January 2006

The power of new.(FROM THE EDITOR)(aquatics facilities )(Brief Article)(Editorial)
January 1, 2006... Sometimes it seems as if our culture is obsessed with newness. Everything, we're told, is new and improved. The latest. The greatest. Bombarded with so much hyperbole, it s easy to forget just how important newness really is in our...

Waterpark's side not represented?(LETTERS)(Letter to the Editor)
January 1, 2006... I am writing this letter in response to your article "Risky Business" by Rin-rin Yu (September 2005). I was both shocked and disappointed in Aquatic International's integrity in publishing such an incomplete report. There are several problems...

Waterpark statistics unreliable.(LETTERS)(Letter to the Editor)
January 1, 2006... Anyone reading the article "Risky Business" (September 2005) is left with the impression that waterparks are inherently dangerous. Yet the information you cite to make that claim is extremely unreliable. I am particularly disappointed by...

Special delivery: the latest and greatest aquatics products for the new year.(Aquatics International 2006 New Products Issue)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2006... The new year has arrived, and with it come new calendars and resolutions--and, of course, the Aquatics International 2006 New Products Issue. As always, this issue offers the latest products for aquatics facilities, and all of the...

A&B Brush Mfg. Corp.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... A&B Brush Mfg. Corp. presents its new steel-tipped wall brushes that serve as two brushes in one. Center material comes in a choice of nylon or a combo. Brush is designed to make reaching the corners easier, and the steel tip is made to last...

Advanced Control Logix.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Advanced Control Logix has announced a new chemical controller designed specifically to monitor and control pH and sanitizer levels 24/7. Product's remote, mountable interface is driven by an information bus system that allows each system to...

Acu-Trol Programmable Controllers.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Acu-Trol Programmable Controllers offers a new software package that enables a facility manager to view the status of his or her controller online. The viewer can see pH, ORP, PPM, temperature and flow of a body of water at any time. The...

Alta Enterprises.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Alta Enterprises Inc. has created the Power Winder, which is designed to attach to an existing pool blanket reel system to convert it into a powered reel system that requires no hand cranking. The power head is engineered to move quickly and...

All Pro Exercise Products.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... All Pro Exercise Products Inc. introduces the Aquatic-Weight-A-Band in two resistance models: medium and heavy. Both have yellow, vinyl-covered grip handles, which hold 1 pound of weight. Each model also has cushiony foam comfort sections for...

American Red Cross.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... The American Red Cross has unveiled a newly expanded instructors' corner on its Web site. Highlights of the site include program updates, teaching aids, anytime shopping and promotional materials, all in a searchable format designed for easy...

American Wave Machines.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... American Wave Machines Inc. presents the SurfStream, a compact, low-maintenance standing wave machine for hotel/resorts, waterparks and action sports venues. Product is designed for compact areas without the need for a large surge tank or...

Anchor Industries.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Anchor Industries Inc. now offers the Funbrella Palm, a 20-foot permanent, nonretractable umbrella constructed of a new mesh material that is designed to provide 95 percent UV blockage. The Funbrella Palm is made to exceed structural codes for...

AntiWave.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... AntiWave, div., Vaupell Inc. presents competitive starting blocks. Hand-laid fiberglass blocks have stainless steel fittings. The blocks come in three versions: Junior 400, Super 400 and Super 700. Contact:. 206.676.8238; www.antiwave.com...

Aqua Control.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Aqua Control Inc. introduces new free-standing technology. While the company's floating display aerators and fountains need a float to operate, the bowl fountains do not. The standard bowl fountain was introduced a few years ago, and now the...

Aqua Products.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Aqua Products Inc. presents the UltraMax Gemini automatic pool cleaner, which offers "AquaSmart" mapping software, auto-start delay and a stainless steel skeletal chassis. The Gemini is made to efficiently and reliably maintain pools of any...

Aqua Sphere.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Aqua Sphere introduces the Seal XP swim goggle. Product combines the comfort and 180-degree visibility of a swim mask with the soft frame and low profile of a traditional swim goggle. The buckle system allows for on-the-go adjustments. Designed...

AquaClimb.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... AquaClimb offers new climbing walls that are designed to add another dimension to water fitness and entertainment. The AquaClimb modular wall system rises from the water and is based on 3-by-3-meter, chlorine-resistant nonslip fiberglass panels...

Aqua Vac Systems.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... The KingShark2 Plus is Aqua Vac Systems' new, completely automatic and self-contained vacuum. The KingShark2 Plus requires no hoses or hookups. Place it in the pool and plug it in to begin cleaning. Includes AV twister to minimize cord kinking,...

AquaChek.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... AquaChek has developed a new test strip that measures high-range free chlorine for many applications, including sanitization and disinfectant in and around pool and spa facilities. Test measures free chlorine in the range of 0 to 600 ppm...

AquaJogger.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... AquaJogger presents the TriFit Walker, designed for balance and stability in water-walking classes and aquatic rehab sessions. The snap-an crossbar allows the walker to be taken apart and then the bars can be used independently for fitness and...

AquaKita.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... AquaKita offers the Crazy Slide, which integrates a number of rides into one attraction. Rides include the Aqua Tube, closed toboggan, raft toboggan and others. The company also has design, engineering and consulting services available. ...

Aquam Aquatic Specialist.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Aquam Aquatic Specialist Inc. has developed the World 2005 floating water polo goal. The goal is made of 6-inch-thick fiberglass floaters that allow for better balance. It has a two-float design so that goalies can kick freely. Equipped with...

Aquatic Development Group.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Aquatic Development Group offers a line of commercial pool products, including the FlowRider surfing systems (shown), WaveTek and Maxawave wave generation systems, AFW movable pool floors, and Whitten commercial products. Contact:...

Aquatic Access.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Larger individuals now can use pool lifts to enter the water with Aquatic Access Inc.'s new two-piece seat. The extra-wide seat provides more seating surface than the bucket seat that is standard on lifts. Built of marine-grade, stain-resistant...

Aquatic Safety Research Group.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Aquatic Safety Research Group, LLC, offers a new system developed by Tom Griffiths, Ed.D, to better protect pools, waterparks and beaches from accidents, sign pollution and lawsuits. The company offers two types of safety signs: yellow diamond...

Aquatic Recreation Co.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Aquatic Recreation Co. presents Water Pressure, an interactive and educational multiuser water-play structure. The Water Pressure emits water from several different orifices, beginning with the very lowest. Users hold each stream to get the...

Aquatic Trends.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... The Aquatread Water Workout Station by Aquatic Trends Inc. now comes with a basic exercise guide affixed directly to the product. A new fitness programming guide is available for purchase, along with an instructional poster to be posted at...

AstralPool.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... AstralPool presents the new Smartwatch, an automatic device that measures and regulates the pH value and residual level of free chlorine in water. It takes free chlorine readings using calorimetry (DPD), a method used in photometers and...

Aquatic Technology.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Aquatic Technology Inc. presents a changeable sidewalk sign that lets the user convey any message to patrons. The double-sided portable sidewalk sign measures 25-by-45-inches and includes 272 letters, numbers and symbols. Available in yellow,...

Aquatics by Sprint.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Aquatics by Sprint has created an adaptive bathing suit that was developed for people with joint pain, tremors or weakness in their hands and fingers. The suit also is helpful for pregnant women, special-needs populations, and those who are...

AuthorHouse.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... AuthorHouse has a new book titled Conquer Your Fear of Water, which reveals a new system to help people get over their fear of getting in the water. Written by Melon Dash, founder of the Transpersonal Swimming Institute in Berkeley, Calif., the...

Autograph Foliages.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Autograph Foliages now carries fountains for interior and exterior use. The fountains are made of lightweight fiberglass and designed for easy assembly. A water pump is included with each unit. Contact: 216.426.6151; www.autograph...

Blue-White Industries.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Blue-White Industries' newly designed, heavy-duty injection fitting features a double seal ceramic ball check valve and duckbill-type flapper valve, which will resist solids-forming chemicals. Overall size has been decreased by 25 percent for...

Brock Enterprises.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Brock Enterprises has added the WEDA line of automatic pool cleaners to its product offerings. The WEDA commercial cleaner is designed to be powerful, rugged and reliable for cleaning large swimming pools. Made with cast aluminum pumps, drive...

Big Squirt!(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Big Squirt! Inc. introduces Party-in-a-Bag. The bag contains items needed for a birthday party of 10. Items include colorful invitations emblazoned with "Happy Birthday" as well as water-toy party favors. There's also a disposable tablecloth to...

Bluworld of Water.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Bluworld of Water offers a variety of custom waterfeatures, water walls and waterfall technology. Customized designs are available. Contact: 407.426.7674; www.bluworldusa.com Circle 470 on Postage-Free Card [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Canvas Specialty.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Canvas Specialty Inc. presents its new Tiara Cabanas, available in four sizes: 8-by-8-feet, 10-by-10-feet, 10-by-12-feet and 12-by-12-feet. Cabanas are made of Sunbrella fabric and have curtains with tie-backs and zippers. Aluminum frame is...

Carter Grandle.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... The Carlyle Collection from Carter Grandle is a deep-seating modular group, similar to an indoor sectional. Carlyle pieces may be combined to form numerous layouts. The castings are designed to present comfortable surfaces while seated, and...

CAT Controllers.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... CAT Controllers offers the CAT 4000 wireless water-quality controller. The system has Internet-based monitoring capabilities. The Web site allows the user to view water-quality data, print charts and graphs, customize settings and receive alarm...

CCSI International.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... The Atria pool enclosure from CCSI International Inc. now offers a rain sensor option that will automatically close its electric opening roof when it rains, making the pool enclosure even more secure and user-friendly. Includes an electrical...

Chemtrol.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Chemtrol presents the PC4000 automatic backwash controller. The controller continuously monitors and controls flow rate, influent and effluent pressures, and the main recirculation pump and filter. The PC4000 has an optional water level control...

Covertech fabricating.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Covertech Fabricating Inc. presents new thermo-wall reflective insulation for pool walls. Thermo-wall is designed to reduce heat loss by up to 80 percent. It is 3/16-inch-thick and comes in 4-by-125-foot rolls. Product is installed by peeling...

Chlorinators Inc.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Chlorinators Inc. has added the new SmartValve to the Regal Series 7000 product line. The SmartValve Model 7009/7010 is designed for feedback (closed loop) control schemes. The 7009/7010 can be configured for flow proportional control, residual...

Crystal Clear Pool and Spa.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Eclipse3 Power Pak is Crystal Clear Pool and Spa's new start-up ready kit. Designed to be easy to use, the Pak contains E3 algicide, E3 nonchlorine shock and E3 scale and stain prevention. Contact: 416.688.5684; www.eclipse3.com Circle...

Daktronics.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Daktronics Inc. has developed a series of message centers that bring new animation and results capabilities to the pool. The displays make it possible to recognize sponsors and communicate upcoming events to the crowd. Displays also offer...

Des Champs Technologies.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Des Champs Technologies introduces the Wringer 2000, which dehumidifies the natatorium with dry outside air when available. The Wringer 2000 has an energy recovery heat exchanger, designed to save 30 percent energy during compressor operation....

Dri-Dek.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Dri-Dek, div., Kendall Products offers self-draining floor tiles that are available in both 3-by-4-foot interlocking sheets and 3-by-12-foot interlocking rolls. The tiles are anti-skid and the self-draining surface is designed to keep wet...

Distinctions.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Distinctions, LLC, offers a way to avoid pool deck injuries with its Soft Landings tiles. Product is designed to be nonslip, waterproof, chemical-resistant, UV-stable and durable. The tiles will not support mold or mildew and may be applied...

ECOmatic by Balboa Direct.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... ECOmatic by Balboa Direct presents a salt chlorine generator that reduces chlormines, which can cause eye and skin irritation and unpleasant odors. Product breaks down contaminants such as sun products and baby oils as well. It also has a high...

elifeguard.com.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... elifeguard.com has developed a new thin strap lifeguard proback. The thin strap design was added to provide support, comfort and style for active women lifeguards. The proback is fully lined with chlorine-resistant material. Embroidered...

Empex Watertoys.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Empex Watertoys introduces the Aquawave T450, a new kiddie wave slide. Fabricated from corrosion-resistant fiberglass, it can be used in shallow pools and sprayparks with chlorinated water. Product can be used on sloping beach entries as well...

Engineered Treatment Systems.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Engineered Treatment Systems has developed the new ETS Ecoflo II UV system that can be mounted horizontally or vertically, making it ideal for retrofit installations. With two powerful lamps and a straight-through flow path, the Ecoflo II is...

GAME.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Great American Merchandise & Events presents the AquaGlow underwater light show, which projects variable light patterns and colors onto the bottom and sides of a pool or spa. Powered by 3 AA batteries (not included) and an auto-off switch....

Essentials.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Essentials introduces the new H2O cleaning wand, which hooks up to an ordinary garden hose. The wand cleans everything from spa covers and surfaces to tile, cars, boats, skis and more. The mild mesh scrubber operates in a gentle cleaning action...

Flashvac.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Flashvac's new "i1" commercial vacuum was designed for easy use, employing disposable filter bags and weighing only 85 pounds. Can be used on land and water; made to reduce labor by 50 per cent. Gas-powered Flashvac can be placed in a lazy...

GLB Pool & Spa.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... GLB Pool & Spa now offers a saltwater pool-care kit. Contents include specialty chemicals and other products needed to properly care for a pool holding up to 20,000 gallons and equipped with a salt generator. Algimycin 2000 triple-action...

H2Ogym.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... H2Ogym presents new powerless aqua gym equipment, packaged with 34 programming protocols. Product is specifically designed for those interested in fitness and wellness who are overweight, senior and low ADL population. The patented design is...

H2O Innovations.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... H2O Innovations presents a portable Guard Chair designed to supplement the supervision provided by larger permanent guard stations. New features include standard wheel kits for easy mobility, expanded aluminum subframe and standard red...

Hydro-Fit.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Hydro-Fit Inc. offers Wet Vest Mitts. The industrial strength mitts are webbed for heavy-duty resistance in the water. The mitts have an open-fingered design and are made of quality neoprene. One size fits all. Contact: 800.346.7295;...

Hayward Pool Products.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Hayward Pool Products Inc. introduces the cupronickel heat exchanger as the new standard on all the company's 2006 model year gas heat exchangers. The resilient material offers corrosion resistance and provides improved durability and...

Heliocol Solar Pool Heating.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Heliocol Solar Pool Heating now offers its solar collectors in new terra cotta and gray colors, in addition to the standard black. Individual tube design was created for easy installation and to withstand hurricane-force winds. Contact:...

Inlays.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Inlays Inc. offers new 2-by-6-inch safety edge ceramic tile. Tiles are factory skid-resistant and frostproof. Designed to clearly mark the step edge for safe pool entry. Available in blue or black. Contact: 800.426.6873; www.inlaysinc.com...

Hydro-Tone Fitness Systems.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Hydro-Tone Fitness Systems Inc.'s new Mini-Fins for aquatic exercise and therapy are designed to amplify the natural resistance of water to safely strengthen muscles and improve cardiovascular endurance. Mini-Fins can be worn around ankles for...

IPS-CareFree Enzymes.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... IPS-CareFree Enzymes Inc. offers a pool maintenance concentrate that is bacteria-free. The enzymes are designed to improve water clarity, cloudy water, odors and also eliminate oils and organic residue. Contact: 262.878.0995;...

Jack's Magic Products.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Jack's Magic Products Inc. introduces the Purifiber and Purifiber Plus, NSF-approved filter media that offers an alternative to DE in commercial and residential swimming pools. Both products replace DE and serve as filter aids in cartridge and...

Johnsonite.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Johnsonite now offers the Roundel rubber flooring system, with more than 50 solid color choices and six surface textures that are slip-resistant. The flooring's thermal and acoustic qualities are designed to create a more comfortable...

Kimley-Horn and Associates.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Kimley-Horn and Associates Inc. offers facility planning and design services for aquatics park expansions and aquatics facility master planning. These services are offered nationwide for municipal, institutional and commercial aquatics...

LaMotte Co.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... LaMotte Co. announces the waterproof Tracer PockeTester. It is designed for aquatics professionals to measure salt, pH, TDS and temperature with one product. Tester checks salt with a range of 0 to 9,999 ppm; pH from 0 to 14.00; TDS from 0 to...

Adolph Kiefer and Associates.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Adolph Kiefer and Associates introduces the TrackStart Series starting platforms. The side mount design is made to work for pools with bulkheads or limited deck space. The large 32-inch track style top is available in a choice of patented...

Lass Enterprises.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Lass Enterprises Inc. now offers a gutter drain extender that extends the standard 2-by-4-inch gutter drain by 1/2-inch. The drain extender holds itself in position while glue or silicone dries. Receives standard 2-by-4-inch grates. Extender is...

Lil' Orbits.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Lil' Orbits Inc. new minidonuts are inexpensive to produce and can be made automatically in front of the public. Minidonut machines are portable for quick setup. Equipment carries a lifetime guarantee. A full line of concession supplies also is...

Marine Rescue Products.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Marine Rescue Products is carrying a new line of megaphones. The design replaces heavy magnet with lightweight ceramic wafers, designed to make the megaphone 30 percent lighter and have a 50 percent longer battery life. The MEG-25 (shown)...

Mason Corp.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Mason Corp. offers six new standard water slide designs for 2006. The aluminum construction is designed to be attractive and affordable. Two of the new designs can be self-installed for less than $10,000. Company also offers free renderings and...

Mat Factory.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Mat Factory Inc. introduces Ergomatta, a nonslip poolside surface. Ergomatta is made of interlocking, roll-up tiles that are available in seven colors. Product is designed for full drainage; comes with a five-year guarantee. Contact:...

McArthur Towel and Sports.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... McArthur Towel and Sports has new colored velour beach towels. The towels are available in three sizes: 30-by-60-inches, 35-by-60-inches and 35-by-66-inches. Contact: 800.356.9168; www.mcarthursports.com Circle 430 on Postage-Free Card...

Meese Orbitron Dunne Co.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... The 90PSL is Meese Orbitron Dunne Co.'s new laundry truck for the secure transport, delivery and/or return of linens, laundry and other products. The truck features a durable, impact-resistant plastic base that can accommodate up to 600 pounds....

Mer-Made Filter.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Mer-Made Filter has expanded the company's line of surge tank float valves from the current maximum of 16 inches to 18-and 20 inches. Extra weighted balls are included to prevent "hanging up" in the closed position. Pivot style construction is...

Most Dependable Fountains.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Most Dependable Fountains introduces the Model 3900 CU, a new aggregate drinking fountain. The chilled unit is a dual ADA drinking fountain designed to withstand storm winds, sand and other tough environmental conditions. Contact:...

Natare Corp.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Natare Corp. presents its new packaged NataClad commercial pool construction systems. The system combines the strength of Uniwall stainless steel construction with the colorful durability of Natatec PVC to build a durable and watertight pool...

National Ticket Co.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... National Ticket Co. now offers bar-coded wristbands designed to provide maximum control, customer tracking, simplified accounting and added security. Accurate tracking of presales, gate admission and instant customer reports are some...

Natural Structures.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Natural Structures has developed a new combination water slide. The structure has two rides, for a variety of sliding experiences. One tower offers an open plume fiberglass slide as well as a poly tunnel slide. Contact: 800.252.8475;...

Neptune-Benson.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... Neptune-Benson Inc. presents the PVC Guardian hair and lint strainer. The new strainer features heavy-duty construction and a 1-inch-thick, transparent acrylic lid. Strainer comes in 3- to 12-inch sizes, in a straight and eccentric design. 50...

NPT Pool Tile & Stone.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... NPT Pool Tile & Stone otters rock and stone for design projects, including hardscape decking, decorative stone finishing and resurfacing amenities such as barbecues, walkways and retaining walls. Contact: 888.411.8453; www.nptgonline.com...

OpenAire.(NEW PRODUCTS 2006)
January 1, 2006... OpenAire has created new designs for facilities that want to replace or reconstruct their bubble pool enclosures. The enclosures are designed to not just cover, but also to enhance the indoor/outdoor aquatic experience so that swimmers feel as...