Material Handling Management articles from April 2002

Material Handling Management archives from April 2002

No future for jumpers. (Editorial).(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Dumb competitors can be as dangerous as smart competitors. That's what suppliers to 800-pound OEM gorillas are learning in the race to improve service to these animals. Dumb competitors are the ones who, without sufficient training, go...

P&G outsources to cut costs. (News Briefs).(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... As the consumer packaged goods (CPG) market becomes more competitive, manufacturers are developing cost-saving strategies to help them live off thinning profit margins. Procter & Gamble provides the latest example. P&G is studying...

Home Depot signs exel to operate facilities. (News Briefs).(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Exel, a leader in supply chain management, announced an agreement to manage four crossdock facilities within the product distribution network of Home Depot. These transit facilities are among the first Home Depot plans to open to enhance the...

Managers making news. (News Briefs).(various appointments)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Tomo Razmilovic, president and CEO, Symbol Technologies, has announced he will take early retirement in May. Jerome Swartz, chairman and founder, has been named CEO. Richard Bravman, currently senior vice president and general manager of the...

Robert H. Pfleger. (News Briefs).(obituary)(Brief Article)(Obituary)
April 1, 2002... Robert H. Pfleger, founder and president of Pflow Industries, died March 7. Mr. Pfleger was 70 years old. He started Pflow Industries in 1977 when vertical material handling was virtually nonexistent. There was no clear definition separating...

Companies making news. (News Briefs).(includes, Ballard Power Systems signs Ford Power Products joint development agreement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Ballard Power Systems' Electric Drives and Power Conversion Division has signed a joint development agreement with Ford Power Products, a subsidiary of Ford Motor Company. They will jointly develop products driven by sparkignited combustion...

Tax tip for business. (News Briefs).(National Association for the Exchange of Industrial Resources offers information regarding tax deductions)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Did you know you can say good-bye to excess inventory and hello to a federal tax deduction? Donating overstock, nonmoving merchandise to charity can be worth a federal income tax deduction under Section 170 (e) (3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue...

SAM's Club adopts corrugated common footprint. (News Briefs).(Sam's Club, Fibre Box Association, supplier standards)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... SAM's Club has asked its produce suppliers to begin shipping in new corrugated containers meeting the Fibre Box Association (FBA) Common Footprint Standard. The change became effective February 1, 2002, and applies to shipments of apples and...

Conveyor sales roll. (News Briefs).(Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association reports increase in sales)(Brief Article)(Statistical Data Included)
April 1, 2002... The Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association (CEMA) reports that its December 2001 Booked Orders Index was 188, up 16 points, or an increase of 12 percent from November's index. The 12-month index for booked orders indicates an increase of...

More MHM on-line. (News Briefs).(Material Handling Management introduces online services)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Although we've been archiving many of the feature articles from Material Handling Management at our Web site (mhmanagement.com), we admit there have been some access problem for some readers. Now, beginning with the April issue, the feature...

Management changes at AIM. (News Briefs).(Larry W. Roberts resigns, AIM Inc.)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Larry W. Roberts has resigned his position as chief executive officer of AIM USA and AIM Inc., the association for manufacturers of auto identification equipment. Roberts had directed the association for more than eight years. Dan Mullen, vice...

On-line education. (News Briefs).(Air Products and Chemicals Inc. online article information)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... The following sponsored articles appear at www.supplychaintech.com/articlearchive. William Troxell describes how Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. has aligned the company's international operations with data resources and reshaped its...

Producer responsibility: A global concept. (Conventional Wisdom).(recycling industry conference information)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... While the message of recycling seems to have slipped, if not disappeared, from conventional news sources, the fact that we are still living in the mess-age was the message at an international gathering of material handling managers, packaging...

Calendar.(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... April 22-24 Supply-Chain World-North America Conference & Exposition. Hyatt Regency New Orleans. New Orleans. Sponsored by the Supply-Chain Council. Email to info@supply-chain.org. April 24-30 interpack 2002: 16th International Trade Fair...

A global perspective on packaging. (Transport Packaging).(D. Grant Lawrence describes issues surrounding forthcoming European Commission recycling regulations)(Brief Article)(Editorial)
April 1, 2002... After listening to politicians and academicians for several days at the Take It Back 2002 conference, I came up with a new spin on the chicken/egg conundrum: Who cares which comes first? More importantly, is the egg's shell part of the product...

All hail CRM. (Controls & Systems).(customer relationship management systems by federal agencies would not have prevented World Trade Center and Pentagon attacks)(Brief Article)(Column)
April 1, 2002... "If customer relationship management-like systems had been in use by federal agencies before September 11, law enforcers might have had the information they needed to prevent what became the most deadly act of terrorism ever to affect this...

RFID: The chips are down. (Automatic Data Collection).(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... This isn't another "RFID has finally arrived!" column for two reasons. First, RFID (radio frequency identification) has already arrived and has been performing admirably in many applications around the world for a number of years. Second,...

Manufacturing leads economy up. (Manufacturing Management).(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Is the recession over already? It is according to one of the oldest surveys in manufacturing. It's called the PMI (Purchasing Management Index), and it has been published monthly for more than 70 years by the group that represents the...

Stop sign for personnel carriers. (Compliance).(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... There it is, on OSHA's Web site: "This update of Instruction CPL. 2-1.28 is needed since OSHA is reviewing the appropriate training and coverage of personnel and burden carriers... OSHA offices are not to enforce the powered industrial truck...

Isn't that special!(strategy for manufacturers seeking to invest in specialized material handling equipment)(Column)
April 1, 2002... The growing diversity of consumer products is inspiring many manufacturers to use specialized material handling equipment and facilities. Here's what to keep in mind if you're considering such an investment. Material handlers are paying...

Adding value the old-fashioned way--through hard work: At a time when selling lift trucks is a challenge for any distributor, Wisconsin Lift Truck handles a dozen lines and more -- successfully.(Company Profile)
April 1, 2002... Each year the editors of Material Handling Management solicit names of Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA) members who demonstrate exceptional skill and enterprise in adding value to clients' businesses. We review the...

RFID Report: Doing things right. (Editorial).(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... I see a plethora of surveys in my daily duties; some offer hope and promise, others paint a landscape of doom and gloom. The allure of research is that -- given enough time -- you can usually find information to support your opinion. I've...

What matters most? (Automatic Data Flow).(Brief Article)(Polling Data)(Statistical Data Included)
April 1, 2002... Recently, AIM completed a survey to determine the most important requirement for potential users of RFID technology. Leading the list of requirements (read barriers) was, not surprisingly, the cost of tags. Nearly 36 percent of the respondents...

Inflatable packaging for air cushioning. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... The Fill-Air dispenses lightweight air cushions or pillows. Use these air cushions to replace loose fill. Use them for void filling and for cushioning products. Four pages show application photographs. Sealed Air: Packaging Products Div. ...

Load cells. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Load Cell Guide 14 features a large selection of load cells, weigh modules, sensors and scale accessories. Technical specifications assist in determining the correct solution for your application. Rice Lake Weighing Systems Write 243

ID systems for harsh places. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... A capabilities brochure focuses on identification solutions for harsh industrial environments. Included are self-assemble markers, computer-printable products, laser engraving systems and more. Tyco Electronics Identification Write 244

Inventory tracking software. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... ROCit warehouse management software is designed to manage a company's three most important resources: people, space and inventory. The paper-based WMS was developed for small to medium-size warehouses, satellite operations and third-party...

Warehouse competencies. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Using Competencies in the Warehouse provides warehouse managers with a description of the critical competencies needed in warehouse operations. It provides suggestions for incorporating competencies into human resources practices at the...

Inflatable packaging. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... The Pactiv Air 2000 inflatable pouch system is designed to suspend and protect a product between two layers of inflated coextruded film. Literature features step-by-step photographs on product use. Pactiv Corp. Write 250

Transfer switches. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)
April 1, 2002... A new brochure features a wide variety of transfer switch equipment. The equipment protects facilities with standby power for critical applications and the capability to reduce peak energy costs by limiting peak demand. Cutler-Hammer Write...

Inventory scheduling. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(Adonix offers managment software)(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Adonix X3 enterprise information management software has a variety of scheduling and inventory allocation capabilities. The software is easier to install and maintain, easier to use and easier to customize. Adonix Write 255

Anti-fatigue mats. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Ortho-Mat relieves pain and discomfort for those standing or working on hard surface areas. The lightweight, 3/4" mat has closed-cell nitrile construction that offers a non-slip surface top and bottom. Pro-Tech Mats Industries Inc. Write...

Label software. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Label Matrix PowerPro label software enables designers to include text and bar codes as well as REID transponders that can automatically transmit item information, including quantities and locations, on a single label. Teklynx International ...

Automated storage and retrieval systems. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(offered by Orchid Automation)(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... These multi-level, high-density systems can handle loads up to 160,000 pounds, and are used to store and retrieve items such as dies, parts, coils, blank stacks, steel plates, containers and pallets. A control unit can monitor all daily...

JIT course. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Just-in-Time: Lean Operating Principles and Techniques has been re-released as a standalone course. JIT concepts include improving quality, eliminating waste and reducing manufacturing lead times and inventory. APICS - The Educational Society...

Guide to dock doors. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)
April 1, 2002... A 16-page quick guide features high-speed, high-performance doors. A product guide makes it easy to find the right door for the job. Specifications are provided and options are available. Rytec Corp. Write 262

Quicklift. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(offered by Vestil Manufacturing Co.)(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... You can transport lightweight products and loads from workstation to workstation with the battery-powered Quicklift. The portable unit requires little maintenance and features an adjustable handle to suit each operator's ergonomic need. Vestil...

Sheet inverters. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(offered by Bushman Equipment Inc.West Bend Equipment Div.)(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... A technical datasheet highlights IB and IC inverters that feature open sides for flow-through sheet inversion. These inverters safely and efficiently handle extra-large sheets that can be fed and removed with a lift truck or conveyor. West Bend...

Collaboration software. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)
April 1, 2002... FactoryTalk software enables manufacturing applications to integrate seamlessly across the manufacturing enterprise, providing information transparency and connectivity to suppliers and customers. Rockwell Automation. Write 265

Protective rails. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(offered by Steel King Industries Inc.)(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Steel Guard can protect your people, product and plant from lift truck collisions. A chart clearly defines the features and benefits of the protective railing system. Steel King Industries Inc. Write 266

Order software. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... The Order Analysis and Planning System (OAPS) software organizes the order-release process to enhance order throughput and resource utilization. The software helps solve constraint-based problems in distribution centers. St. Onge Co. Write...

Bar coding guide. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Bar Coding Made Easy is an easy-to-understand guide that explains common bar code terminology, the benefits of bar coding and the advantages of in-house bar code label printing. Weber Marking Systems Inc. Write 269

Safety products. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... This buyers guide features confined-space monitors, emergency air systems, work zone safety clothing and a line of comfortable, protective footwear. Conney Safety Products Write 270

Transportation management. (Bulletins & Catalogs).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Logistics PRO 7.0 software features enhanced carrier support to address many of the latest requirements for major carriers like UPS, Airborne, FedEx and UPS Canada. Manhattan Associates Inc. Write 272

Rotary Labeling System. (Product News).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... The M3 High-Speed Rotary Labeling System applies labels to a container in wraparound, wipeon or front and back modes in the same turret. The machine consists of quick-change, timed, matched tooling that allows an average changeover time of less...

VNA turrent truck. (Product News).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... The DXT-30 operates in 66-inch guided aisles. It is a 2,650-pound capacity, 3-wheel, 48-volt model with side-seated operator position and swing-away control arm. It also offers self-diagnostics and a battery discharge indicator with lift...

Over-the-conveyor storage. (Product News).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... These workstations help turn wasted space into functional areas. For carton filling, packing, manifesting, testing and small parts assembly, they help organize work areas, eliminate clutter and create a better product flow. Dehnco Equipment &...

Verify high-density bar codes. (Product News).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... The SV Series bar code scanner and verifier system handles on-line scanning and verification of high-density bar codes. It analyzes and reports ANSI and conventional print quality parameters. RJS; www.rjsl.com, 800-840-4267. Write 219

Fulfilling software. (Product News).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Cadence fulfillment software consolidates warehouse management, order entry, transportation management and activity billing. The WMS portion organizes and improves product flow and throughput. It monitors and controls inventory and work...

Dock lift. (Product News).(Advance Lifts Inc.)(advertisement)(Brief Article)(Product Announcement)
April 1, 2002... The Model 2500K pit-mounted lift has a 6-by-8-foot platform and lifts up to 5,000 pounds. It's powered by a 5 horsepower motor that raises and lowers the platform at a rate of 12 feet per minute. The platform travel distance is 58 inches. It...

Outer case coding solutions. (Product News).(advertisement)(Brief Article)
April 1, 2002... Users can choose from several C-Series systems. The high-definition version printer can produce real-time, variable data; multiple-line text; on-line graphics, and all major bar codes onto porous outer case cartons. The valve jet printer uses...

Easy handling of bulk liquids. (Product News).(Carbis Modular System)(advertisement)(Brief Article)(Product Announcement)
April 1, 2002... Here's a solution to situations where companies must build a loading/unloading station to transport or receive bulk-liquids. This pre-fabricated system comes on the back of a skid. It includes transfer pumps, pipe racks, storage tanks,...

Multipurpose printer. (Product News).(Griffin-Rutgers Company Inc.)(advertisement)(Brief Article)(Product Announcement)
April 1, 2002... The multipurpose Codajet 6000 printer offers high resolution on-line printing of any characters, bar codes or graphics on corrugated cases and other packaging material. The system includes a print head, control panel, triggering sensor and ink...

Optimizing the Supply Chain. (Product News).(CAPS Logistics Inc.)(advertisement)(Brief Article)(Product Announcement)
April 1, 2002... Momentum: Planning is the newest release of the Momentum software family. It combines and integrates strategic, tactical and operational funtions for third-party logistics providers and transportation arms of manufacturers and retailers in...

Connect wiring in less than 30 seconds. (Product News).(Turck Inc.)(advertisement)(Brief Article)(Product Announcement)
April 1, 2002... The Insulation Avoidance Connector is an alternative to other termination methods such as crimped, screw terminals and soldered contacts. The individual conductors are placed into an elastic insert and the assembly is then screwed together for...

Wireless bar code printing. (Product News).(Intermec Technologies Corp.)(advertisement)(Brief Article)(Product Announcement)
April 1, 2002... The EasyCoder Printer Mounting Kit works with Mobile LAN 2102 access modules. The kit includes mounting brackets, cable and installation instructions and configuration information. It lets users print bar code labels across a wireless local...

No Spills. (Product News).(Ultra-Tech International Inc.)(advertisement)(Brief Article)(Product Announcement)
April 1, 2002... The Ultra-SpillPallet P4 Plus handles loaded IBC tanks. Its polyethylene design can handle 9,000-pound loads. It also has a 4-way lift truck entry. A large 75-gallon sump captures nuisance leaks and spills. Height is 8-3/4 inches. The...

Crane controller. (Product News).(Cattron-Theimeg)(advertisement)(Brief Article)(Product Announcement)
April 1, 2002... The Pendant Station (PS) Controller, for overhead cranes, eliminates cables and cords. It uses remote control technology and provides up to three-speed operation and variable-frequency drive with one push-button. Each controller contains I-Key,...

Compact PC. (Product News).(Xycom Automation Inc.)(advertisement)(Brief Article)(Product Announcement)
April 1, 2002... The 3115T flat panel computer handles light industrial applications. It comes with a 15-in, flat panel LCD and analog resistive touch-screen, Pentium III 850 MHz CPU, 256 MB RAM, and CD-ROM and floppy. It also has the following ports: an...

Taking advantage of gravity. (Product News).(Eagle MHC)(advertisement)(Brief Article)(Product Announcement)
April 1, 2002... Gravity flow line feed carts improve product visibility. Each angled-shelf cart has open-wire construction. Shelving is adjustable on 1-in. vertical increments and angles up to 30 degrees. Shelf dimensions provide enough space for double...