Material Handling Management articles from January 2003

Material Handling Management archives from January 2003

Win the word war: focus on your next project's fine print.(contract wording)(Editorial)
January 1, 2003... I just got some encouraging news from Hal Vandiver, executive vice president of business development for the Material Handling Industry of America. He tells me you folks are going to be buying material handling systems this year. He cited the...

MHIA makes annual forecast. (News Briefs).(Material Handling Industry of America)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2003... Each year, the Material Handling Industry and its division, Material Handling Industry of America, provide a segment brief to its members, industry participants and interested members of the public, with the sole intent of offering information...

Get the most from crane investment. (News Briefs).(Crane Manufactures Service Committee publishes "Specification No. 78, Standards and Guidelines for Professional Services Performed on Overhead Traveling Cranes and Associated Hoisting Equipment")(Brief Article)
January 1, 2003... You've spent a lot of money on your overhead crane system. Is there a way to ensure you'll get the most from that investment, as well as any subsequent investment in equipment, people and service? There is now. The Crane Manufactures...

PEF Names Scholarship Winners. (News Briefs).(Kraft Foods and The Packaging Education Forum)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2003... Kraft Foods and The Packaging Education Forum (PEF) announced the first recipients of PEF's Scott-Hogue Scholarship Award: Sara M. Damon, senior, University of Wisconsin-Stout, and Emma Hollander, sophomore, Rochester Institute of Technology....

Customer satisfaction beats ROI in IT Bowl. (News Briefs).(CFO Research Services and Saugatuck Technology report "Customer-Centric Technology Investments: Where's the ROI?" )(return on investment)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2003... A new study reveals that CFOs and CIOs judge customer satisfaction to be a more important gauge of IT investment value. This insight is one of many spotlighted in the just-released study from CFO Research Services and Saugatuck Technology...

Outsource or not? (News Briefs).("3PLs -- Living Up To Expectations?")(Brief Article)
January 1, 2003... Third-party logistics providers (3PLs) are a natural extension of today's logistics business, especially as companies focus on their core competencies and relegate so-called non-core functions to 3PLs. The expectation is that costs will be...

Editor's clarification. (News Briefs).(Correction Notice)
January 1, 2003... Included in the article "Charge Up Your Material Handling Tasks" (November MHM) was a commentary on the general use of AC motor technology applied in many lift trucks. Since that article appeared, an industry source commented to MHM editors...

New electronic newsletter. (News Briefs).(Penton's Supply Chain Group)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2003... Something new has been added. Starting in January, Penton's Supply Chain Group launched a monthly electronic newsletter Extending The Enterprise, focused on issues related to trends, technologies and business strategies that affect...

Industry leaders at RPCC annual meeting. (News Briefs).
January 1, 2003... Representatives of the Environmental Protection Agency, Kroger Company, Harley-Davidson and various research institutions are among the host of speakers scheduled to make presentations at the Reusable Pallet & Container Coalitions's (RPCC)...

Managers making news. (News Briefs).(Brief Article)
January 1, 2003... Crown Equipment Corporation has announced the appointment of Jim Dicke III as company president. Jim Dicke III joined Crown as vice president, human resources, and has been serving as executive vice president since 2000. Jim Dicke II,...

Getting more from your WMS. (News Briefs).
January 1, 2003... More than half of all warehouse management systems fail to deliver value at anticipated levels, according to more than 1,400 respondents in a study of WMS usage. And a similar percentage of large WMS implementations fail to come in on time and...

Justify your investment. (News Briefs).
January 1, 2003... JustMat is a team-centered decision support system for justifying capital investments in material handling systems. The user-friendly software is geared for both individual and team use. Developed in visual basic for use on a PC in...

Lift truck maker downsizes. (News Briefs).(NACCO Materials Handling Group restructures Lenoir and Irvine)(Brief Article)
January 1, 2003... NACCO Materials Handling Group (NMHG) will close its Lenoir, North Carolina, lift truck component facility and restructure its Irvine, Scotland, lift truck assembly and component facility. The Lenoir component facility, which employs 310...

Companies making news. (News Briefs).(Brief Article)
January 1, 2003... Menasha Packaging Company LLC has acquired Triangle Container Corporation of Philadelphia, The acquisition fortifies Menasha's design and production capabilities related to consumer packaging and point-of-purchase solutions. Founded in 1947,...

Travel sideways. (The Cutting Edge).(Brief Article)
January 1, 2003... Warehouse designers have always had to consider lift truck movement limitations when laying out storage aisles. No more, thanks to the Acroba line of battery-powered lift trucks. These trucks can take a 90-degree turn by not turning at all....

Robot flexes picking muscle. (The Cutting Edge).
January 1, 2003... There's nothing as flexible as the human hand for picking. But robots such as the Flex Picker are coming closer to matching human dexterity. The Flex Picker picks up random objects from one conveyor belt and precisely places them into cartons...

A bridge to better communications. (The Cutting Edge).(Brief Article)
January 1, 2003... As the need for Internet access extends beyond the PC, a new generation of devices will help make communications ubiquitous and transparent. These devices, from Ubicom Inc., support all prevalent connectivity protocols, including HomePlug,...

Calendar.(Calendar)
January 1, 2003... January 23 Visual Factory Management. Denver. Also held January 31 in San Diego and February 19 in Downers Grove, Illinois. Sponsored by the Saddle Island Institute. Phone Julie Cooper at (617) 720-9545. January 23-24 Project Scheduling...

So, what's bugging you? (Transport Packaging).
January 1, 2003... Witt, Clyde E. January always seems like the right time to clean up loose ends from the previous year. I've had an itch that needed scratching ever since Pack Expo last November. I think it's a couple of news items, somewhat related, that...

For security's sake, get rid of euphemisms. (Controls & Systems).
January 1, 2003... If you don't secure your data from unauthorized access, others may find out just how much you've lost due to "shrinkage." Shrinkage is another aspect of Homeland security that needs attention. But technology often proves to be ineffective...

It's pay back time!: material handling automation can make a big difference on the bottom line. all you have to do is prove it. here's how. (Automation - Part 1).
January 1, 2003... Ready for the Pro Mat show? Got your exhibitor list all marked up? Technology hot buttons identified? Ready to find a deal? Not so fast. Before you head to Chicago, make sure you head upstairs to get upper management's buy-in. And do it...

ProMat 2003: solutions looking for challenges.
January 1, 2003... The 60-session conference accompanying this year's trade show offers up-to-the-minute information about the management, or why, of material handling--as well as the what. The value of attending a trade show like ProMat 2003, sponsored by...

Prepare for attack.
January 1, 2003... Your data and systems will be attacked, compromising your ability to move material. Challenges to securing your systems are plentiful. But implementing the suggested security measures can help you defeat the coming assaults. Is securing...

Aleco/Alabama environmental co. (Issues & Answers: Advertisement).
January 1, 2003... Company show profile: Aleco[TM] is the largest strip door manufacturer in the United States, targeting the material handling/industrial supply markets in areas such as loading dock equipment and ergonomic and safety equipment. Aleco's...

Pump maker uses G-Force to load milling machines. (Issues & Answers: Advertisement).(Gorbel Inc.)
January 1, 2003... When a leading pump manufacturer in Upstate New York needed a safer, more productive way to load its milling machines, it turned to Gorbel's G-Force[TM] Intelligent Lifting Device. In this work cell, operators load motor adapters ranging from...

Vertical carousel provides material handling solution. (Issues & Answers: Advertisement).
January 1, 2003... Avery-Dennison of Schererville, Indiana, is a worldwide converting, graphics systems, specialty tapes and performance films manufacturer. Avery-Dennison operates several printing presses and utilizes hundreds of print cylinders. Print cylinders...

The E-Batt advantage. It knows before you do. (Issues & Answers: Advertisement).
January 1, 2003... Vice President of Sales Prophecy Software Prophecy Software will be demonstrating its new, state-of-the-art E-Batt Battery Management System. Be sure to put Prophecy Software on your must-visit list if: * You run multiple shifts *...

Containers withstand solvent. (Issues & Answers: Advertisement).
January 1, 2003... Seymour Tubing Inc. manufactures carbon and stainless steel round tubing components for the automotive industry. As a subsidiary of Sumitomo Pipe and Tube Co. (the largest supplier of mechanical steel tubing to the automotive industry in Japan)...

Automation improves customer service. (Issues & Answers: Advertisement).(Liberty Hardware Manufacturing Corp.)
January 1, 2003... For 60 years, Liberty Hardware has built a sterling reputation by offering a comprehensive line of high-quality furniture and cabinet hardware products. The decorative and functional hardware from Liberty enhances finely crafted...

AS/RS and S/R machine renovation provides accurate inventory. (Issues & Answers: Advertisement).
January 1, 2003... Founded in 1961, Rittal has grown and developed into one of the larger enclosure manufacturers in the world. Many well-known companies have developed strong partnerships with Rittal and its list of international customers includes some of the...

Young kids and old elevators don't mix. (Compliance).
January 1, 2003... Chances are that your kids don't ride in many elevators, and even those they do ride are pretty new. So they probably won't end up like eight-year-old Joseph Tucker Smith who was crushed to death in an old elevator at Bethel Inn in Maine. ...

How creative thinking saves manufacturing. (Manufacturing Management).(Cook Communications)
January 1, 2003... "If it isn't new, it can't be competitive." "Experts" who believe that are probably also likely to hold that "In America, workers must be fluent in English. Otherwise, nothing will run well." So consider this: An old-line company has a...

Battery cleaning. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... Next Generation of Battery Cleaning features the re-circulating water system that uses the same water over and over; enclosed battery wash cabinets, and economical battery wash racks. The re-circulating water and wash cabinet form a closed-loop...

System integration. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... Successful System Integration: Reducing Risk and Improving Performance outlines the company's capabilities for providing development, management, control and implementation of custom-engineering material handling solutions. Siemens Dematic,...

Safety handbook. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... The new Official OSHA Safety Training Handbook provides information on workplace safety, health and compliance issues. It includes chapters on workplace security and material handling equipment. J.J. Keller & Associates Inc. Write 245

Corrugated steel shelving. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... This steel shelving for racks can be cut to size for fast installation. Water Shower deck is for use with sprinkler systems. D-Mac Industries Inc. Write 249

How to improve storage. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... 101 Proven Ideas provides tips to save space and increase efficiency in parts storage. Learn how to conduct an inventory analysis, improve SKU picking accuracy and much more. Shelf Plus Write 251

Buying secrets. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... 20 Buying Secrets Industry Insiders Don't Want You To Know offers straightforward advice on project planning; new, used and reconditioned equipment, and choosing the right supplier. SJF Material Handling Inc. Write 254

Automatic guided vehicles. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... The Transcar automatic guided vehicle is a low-profile bi-directional vehicle with virtual path, laser contour-following guidance that requires no wall targets, embedded wires or building modifications. Swisslog Write 255

Telescoping crane. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... The Series 1400H telescoping crane is rated with a capacity of 38 tons at 6-ft radius. Two booms are available. Maximum vertical hydraulic reach is 137 ft. Behind-cab mounting allows for a 22-ft cargo deck. National Crane Corp. Write 258

Collapsible containers. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... Ropak 4548 reusable, collapsible containers are ideal for handling many industrial components and supplies. The 45" x 48" footprint containers are available in seven heights with various options. Maximum load capacities range from 1,200 to...

ERP software. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... This suite of fully integrated collaborative ERP software includes financial and resource management, marketing, supply process management, service and project process management, manufacturing and business intelligence. It has been translated...

Tilt-tray sorter. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... The Scorpion II tilt-tray sorter features increased load capacity, drive options, three track curve radii, and more than 20 different standard tray styles to meet customer needs. Mantissa Corp. Write 262

Reach trucks. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... The RR 5200 and 5200S Series reach trucks offer fast travel and lifting speeds. Single-and double-reach models are available with lifting capacities to 4,500 lb. Crown Equipment Corp. Write 264

Hand tool safety. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... The High-Performance Hand Tool Safely program includes a 25-minute training video on safely and ergonomics issues. Benefits of the program include a safer work environment and more awareness of personal safety habits. CooperTools Write 266...

Software directory. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... Edition 7 of the Warehouse & Logistics Software Directory lists all supply chain execution solutions, including WMS, slotting optimization, load building, shipping systems, yard management systems, supply chain event management, transportation...

Lift trucks. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... These heavy-duty lift trucks can easily lift and move loads from 15,400 to 35,000 lb. They are ergonomically engineered for operator comfort and ease of operation, and well equipped with increased visibility and maneuverability to handle any...

Voice-directed technology. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... Triceps 5.1 offers expanded voice-directed technology and industry-leading functionality for voice-enabled order selection and inventory cycle counting. OMI International Write 270

Workstations. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... Quick Ship Work Center Solutions features workstations, workbenches, packaging stations, utility upper structures for workbenches, and a variety of accessories, all available for shipment within five days of ordering. IAC Industries Write...

Merge system. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... The vhsWEDGE is a high-speed, multi-lane merging system for high-volume sortation. It operates at speeds up to 600 fpm, with throughput rates of more than 200 cartons per minute. It efficiently feeds high-speed sliding shoe sorters. FKI...

Lift truck. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... The SpaceSaver S40-65XM lift truck provides comfort, and serviceability. The operator compartment features a full-suspension seat and Monotrol directional pedal for easier maneuvering. Hyster Co. Write 274

Manufacturing software. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... MAIPICS enterprise resource planning software (for Unix, Linux, NT or IBM iSeries) lets mid-sized manufacturers move at their own pace to expand production. Mapics Write 275

Modular conveyors. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... The Adapt modular conveyor features a heavy-duty extruded aluminum rail. This universal frame can accommodate chain, power & free, tabletop or belt conveyors. Hohl Machine & Conveyor Co. Inc. Write 277

Management consultants. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... A foldout guide provides information on the company and areas of consultation. These include productivity and efficiency improvement, facility design and planning, operational improvement, software, and strategic planning/network optimization....

New technology report. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... A new, comprehensive, 57-page Technology Report profiles technologies in power, automation, engineering, manufacturing, oil and gas industries, and illustrates how IndustriallT brings real-time information integration into the everyday...

Manufacturing software. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... Webplan 7.0 software is based on a modular and scalable architecture. It provides supply chain management solutions to mid-tier manufacturers and suppliers. Rent-to-purchase will help companies with big business objectives but smaller budgets....

Pallet rack. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... SK2500 Series pallet rack has 44 times more torsional strength and 250 percent more impact-resistance than open-back roll-formed pallet racks. The rack has fully welded structural tubing. Steel King Industries Inc. Write 289

Accumulation conveyors. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... A flier describes accumulation conveyors, which are zone controlled for safe, reliable, non-contact accumulation of heavy, bulky loads. Capacity ranges from 20 lb to 5,000 lb; roller diameters are 1.9" or 2.5". TKF Inc. Write 290

Conveyers belt splices. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... A pocket-sized, trifold slide chart provides a convenient guide to selecting, installing and troubleshooting Clipper Wire Hook conveyor belt splices for optimum service in light-duty applications. Flexible Steel Lacing Co. Write 292

Impact detectors. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... A video presentation describes the company's line of electronic impact detectors designed to improve access control, promote better operator behavior and reduce product and equipment damage. The MPEG file is compatible with most PC- and...

Modular conveyors. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... An updated 2D CAD library now includes the Modular Plastic Belt (MPB) and the 2200 Series conveyors. You can download the software at www.dorner.com or write for a free CD-ROM. Dorner Mfg. Corp. Write 294

Bulk containers. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... The general-purpose corrugated steel containers mix, match and stack with standard plastic and wire mesh containers. Fully loaded with 4,000 lb of product, the containers can be stacked four high. A datasheet provides capacities and benefits....

Industrial machine parts. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... A New Items Supplement includes swivel casters, electrically conductive wheels, cabinet U-handles, offset tubular grip handles, stainless steel leveling feet, plungers and set screws, as well as a number of power transmission components. J.W....

Financial software. (Bulletins).
January 1, 2003... The newest Visual Jobshop software integrates accounts receivable, accounts payable and general ledger information with QuickBooks Pro small business financial software. Users can more easily manage the shop floor. Lilly Software Write 297...

Two studies reveal trends in 3PL services. (Market Trends).(Industry Overview)
January 1, 2003... Cap Gemini Ernst & Young, Georgia Institute of Technology and Ryder System Inc. announced the results of the 7th Annual Report on Third-Party Logistics in which they claim users of logistics services are still warming up to the concept of...

AGV Handles repetitive tasks. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... The FlexiMate battery-operated vehicle executes a variety of logistical assignments. Its program memory stores up to 17 routing tracks. An optical guidance system follows routes marked on the floor with stainless steel foil, backed by adhesive...

Accessible containers. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... Hopper-front containers, for any application, are available in more than 1,000 standard sizes and more than 10 colors. Sizes range from 4 in. to 65 in. in length. They are available in basic plastic, heavy-duty plastic, ESD and fiberboard...

A caster for all seasons. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... The Cartwash casters are available in 300 Series stainless steel. The material makes them resistant to moisture and chemicals in medium- and medium-to-heavy-duty applications. Capacities range from 200 to 900 lb. They are available in swivel...

Easy product positioning. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... These workstations integrated with a ball transfer system make it easier for operators to position product. The systems consist of a pattern of omnidirectional steel balls inside steel housings. The ball units let a product be rolled...

Utility carts. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... The ProCart functions as a flat-top and box-top cart. It moves cartons, loose components and mixed items in various applications. The hinged side gates flip into position and lock in place with one hand, converting the cart from a flat-top to a...

Integrated pick-to-light. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... The Pick-to-Light Interface enhances the efficiency of static racks and shelving used in distribution applications. With this software, a computer sends the storage system an electronic pick list that activates the pick-to-light modules. A...

Better inventory tracking. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... The PkMS 2002R1 increases the visibility of inventory throughout a supply chain, offers greater flexibility in categorizing and tracking inventory and helps streamline operations. A yard management function lets users expand inventory tracking...

Picking in tight spaces. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... The Micro-Pick pick-to-light system fits in small spaces. It measures 1-in, tall by 2-in. wide. It fits small parts picking, sort-to-light and other picking applications. It features a snap-in bus design and is available in three...

Change belts less often. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... Lineshaft extended-wear urethane drive belts cut required belt changes in half. For use on lineshaft roller conveyors made by Hytrol, Ermanco, Buschman, Rapistan and Matthews, the belts withstand breaking forces to 312 lb. They are made of 45D...

Lift and rotate. (Case Study).
January 1, 2003... A little tweaking can produce the perfect tool. All it takes is for a vendor to go an extra step or two. The beneficiary of one tweak is Falk Corporation, a manufacturer of industrial-mechanical power transmission components in Milwaukee. ...

Conveyor control. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... The ProSort Logix control package controls all 100 and 200 Series sliding shoe sorters and the ProSort SC Power Pivot Sorter. The touchscreen provides ease of operation, statistical information and diagnostics. Hytrol Conveyor Co. Inc.;...

Improving distribution efficiency. (Case Study).
January 1, 2003... Everyone wants to improve customer service and reduce operating costs. For State Service Systems Inc., a division of Beauty Alliance of Clearwater, Florida, to meet this goal, management needed to control packing material costs and...

Ergonomic Positioning. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... Battery-powered lift table raises, lowers and rotates work to the most ergonomically correct position. Guarded foot pedal controls on both sides of the table let employees raise or lower tables. All vertical moving mechanisms are enclosed with...

Flexible piece picking. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... This case- and piece-picking system handles applications that use fewer palletloads and more mixed cases of items. It can be installed in an existing footprint and is easily reconfigured. The MSS III modular storage system is a high-speed box...

Rolling along. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... The 05 Series stainless steel casters are for heavy-duty service in harsh environments involving cleaning agents, steam or caustic solutions. Capacities range to 1,200 lb. Other choices include bearings and brakes, rigid-top plate or swivel...

Drive-in/drive-through. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... The Drive-In/Drive-Thru pallet rack system allows for floor-to-ceiling storage configurations. In reduces the number of conventional traffic aisles and increases number of units stored, while preserving floor space. Configurations can be...

Linking printing systems. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... A software driver supports the SmartDate thermal transfer coder and the Cimjet label printer applicator. This driver lets the coder and the labeler be lined with other design packages. It lets operators use their existing label design software...

Stacker lets operators see clearly. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... The Swift model stacker is a light- to medium-duty walkie for applications requiring lift heights of 62.5 or 79 in. It has a single-mast design for better visibility of a load. It's available with either a straddle or fork-over design. A...

Go mobile. (Product News).
January 1, 2003... RFBuilder lets users design, test and deploy wireless data collection applications for the Falcon portable, fixed-station and vehicle-mount data collection terminals. It helps extend existing business systems to mobile workers. Available in two...