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Why should you service and maintain a safety shower.

AQUA SHOWERS

Maintaining a safety shower is crucial for ensuring its optimal performance and effectiveness during emergency situations. Here are several reasons why maintaining a safety shower is essential:

1. Reliable Emergency Response:

Regular maintenance ensures that the safety shower is in proper working condition and ready to be used when needed. By conducting routine inspections and maintenance activities such as testing water flow, checking water temperature, and inspecting valves, any potential issues can be identified and addressed promptly, ensuring that the safety shower will function reliably during an emergency.

Regular inspection and testing also ensures the area around the safety shower is always checked and clear from obstructions.

2. Employee Safety:

The primary purpose of a safety shower is to provide immediate decontamination in case of exposure to hazardous substances. Regular maintenance helps ensure that the safety shower is fully operational and ready should it be needed.

3. Compliance with Regulations:

Safety showers are often subject to regulatory requirements and standards that specify their maintenance and inspection. By adhering to these regulations, companies demonstrate their commitment to compliance and workplace safety. Regular maintenance helps ensure that the safety shower meets the required standards and ensures the company is meeting its legal requirement.

4. Extended Lifespan:

A safety shower should have a lifespan of approximately 15-20 years.  Proper maintenance and care can significantly extend the lifespan of a safety shower. By promptly addressing any issues, replacing worn-out components, and conducting regular cleaning, you can prevent major breakdowns and costly repairs.

Regular maintenance helps keep the safety shower in optimal condition, reducing the need for premature replacements.

Maintaining a safety shower is essential for its reliable performance, employee safety, regulatory compliance, and overall operational readiness. Regular maintenance and inspections help identify and address any issues promptly, ensuring that the safety shower is always ready for use during emergencies.

For more information on service and maintenance, please contact Aqua Safety Showers on +44(0)1942 318096 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Pepperl+Fuchs Becomes Android Enterprise Silver Partner – Global High-Level Service for Mobile Devices

With the increasing interconnection of systems, devices, and sensors in the Internet of Things (IoT), the need for mobile solutions is growing. More and more manufacturers are recognizing the potential and benefits of mobile computing and communication technologies. Android has emerged as the preferred and most advanced operating system for the IoT of the future. Companies that guarantee their customers maximum security and up-to-date devices with first-class support can be certified by Google for its Android Enterprise Partner Program. With the acquisition of the Silver Partnership in 2023, Pepperl+Fuchs is among the very few companies worldwide that have acquired Google's highest certification: not only for the company, but also for its consultants and products.

As part of the Android Enterprise Partner Program (AEPP), Google partners with companies that optimize their solutions for the management, deployment, and support of Android devices in business environments at a high level. Validated partners receive access to Google resources, tools, and support to better integrate and support Android devices in the enterprise. The program includes various certifications and categories corresponding to the specialization and solutions offered by each partner. These include, for example, mobile device management providers, hardware manufacturers, software developers, and system integrators.

Three Pillars of Certification

The certification for the Android Enterprise Partner Program comprises three pillars that build on each other. The employees of a company, the company itself and its products are certified. For the individual certifications, the global sales teams and application engineers must complete a predefined training program and confirm the respective certificates with an examination. This certificate consists of three levels: Associate, Expert and Professional. Employees who achieve the certification can call themselves Android Enterprise Associate, Expert or Professional. The training courses cover the entire range of Android-related topics, including mobile device management and security.

Silver Award

Companies may get certified only if the expertise of their employees qualifies them to do so. In order to achieve Silver Partner status, companies seeking certification must have a certain percentage of employee certifications in the various expert groups in each active market. Pepperl+Fuchs has achieved this on a global scale and has been a Silver Partner of the Android Enterprise Partner Program since 2023. This means that the pioneer and technology leader in industrial sensor technology and explosion protection fulfills Android's increased requirements in terms of business, products, service, and performance, allowing customers to benefit from numerous advantages.

"We are pleased to welcome Pepperl+Fuchs as a Silver Partner in the Android Enterprise Partner Program," says Ken Schutt, Director of Android Enterprise Partnerships. "By joining the Silver Partner Program, Pepperl+Fuchs demonstrates its commitment to its customers and guarantees that they will receive world-class customer service, support and solutions to help them grow their business."

Third Pillar: Hardware

The third pillar of the certification program relates to the Silver Partner's Android products. The certification of products is part of the Android Enterprise Recommended program. Google verifies the hardware and software of the robust mobile devices based on defined requirements and parameters, e. g. suitability for use in an industrial environment, guaranteed 90-day security updates for at least five years after the start of sales, and further commitments by the manufacturer to at least one OS upgrade, in order to guarantee Google's professional users a comprehensive service package.

The intrinsically safe smartphone Smart-Ex® 03 from Pepperl+Fuchs, as well as other product series such as Tab-Ex® 03 and Tab-Ex® 04 Pro, has received Android Enterprise Recommended certification and forms the basis for future-oriented digital application scenarios in potentially explosive atmospheres. In the 6-inch Android smartphone, Pepperl+Fuchs combines its global, customer-oriented support with the expertise of its subsidiaries ECOM Instruments as a pioneer in intrinsically safe mobile devices and Aava Mobile as an expert in industrial tablets and wireless technologies. The smartphone with Android 13 operating system meets the latest technical standards such as 5G/5G SA, WiFi 6 and eSIM and is therefore ideally equipped for flexible use in public and private networks of mobile network providers or companies worldwide.

With the successful certification, Pepperl+Fuchs is listed in the Android Enterprise Solutions Directory as a "Device Manufacturer". All validated companies can be found there, categorized as "Devices, EMM, Device Manufacturer and Mobility Consulting Service".

Huge Work and Time Savings

Android tools facilitate the secure, professional use of mobile devices in an industrial environment. Customers can request the required configuration of the basic device from the device manufacturer, who will pre-load the devices in production and then provide the appropriate pre-configuration to the customer. The mobile devices can be integrated into the IT infrastructure manually via Android Zero Touch or a QR code. This way, all new devices are integrated into the customer's MDM system with their IMEI and can then be managed and updated over the air.

The profiles that are uploaded to the mobile device are largely drag-and-drop. The advantage of certification is that the manufacturer can individually respond to customers' wishes and requirements. They do not have to adapt the mobile devices themselves in their IT department. Pepperl+Fuchs discusses the requirements, scope, and type of installation and usage rights with the IT department. The customer can issue the devices directly to the employees for immediate use. This makes work much easier and saves a lot of time. Another advantage is the comprehensive after-sales support.

Many Parts for a Great Whole

"Behind the Google certification for people, companies and products is a holistic, coherent concept in which the individual processes interlock like pieces of a puzzle and one fits into the other," says Jörg Hartleb, Head of Product Management at ECOM – A Pepperl+Fuchs Brand. "By certifying the hardware and the company to the highest standards in conjunction with professional staff training, we offer our customers first-class support and service during the initial installation of the mobile devices, as well as during use."

Pepperl+Fuchs has a total of over 60 sales employees in the APAC, EMEA, North and South America regions who have reached Google Associate level. Differences can be seen in everyday life. This is where Pepperl+Fuchs scores with its global expertise. With its own well-staffed support and service network, the company meets all the requirements of a Trusted Advisor.

Web: www.pepperl-fuchs.com

Biden-Harris Administration announce $750 million towards clean hydrogen projects ahead of World Hydrogen North America in Houston this May

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The global focus on hydrogen as a clean, versatile, and sustainable energy carrier continues to intensify. The Biden-Harris Administration's announcement of a $750 million investment across 52 projects to support America's growing clean hydrogen economy, as highlighted in a recent article published by the U.S. Department of Energy, underscores the momentum behind hydrogen as a critical component of the nation's energy transition.

Against this backdrop, the upcoming World Hydrogen North America Congress is poised to convene in Houston from May 21 to May 23, 2024, to discuss the latest advancements, challenges, and opportunities within the hydrogen industry. The timing of this event aligns with recent significant developments in the hydrogen sector.

Lucy Rankin, Program Director at World Hydrogen Leaders, commented “This announcement is a major milestone, and represents a significant opportunity to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen as a clean energy solution. We're eager to delve into this topic further in Houston. As these ambitious plans move toward implementation, the industry is still encountering real challenges that must be addressed. From evolving regulations to supply chain constraints, it’s clear this transition will not come without growing pains. That’s why events like World Hydrogen North America are so valuable right now. By bringing together key players across the hydrogen value chain, we can align on solutions to current obstacles, forge new partnerships, and ultimately accelerate the energy transition.”

World Hydrogen North America promises to bring together over 1,200 key stakeholders, thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to explore the pivotal role of hydrogen in shaping North America's energy landscape.

Organized by World Hydrogen Leaders, the conference will feature engaging discussions, insightful presentations, and networking opportunities tailored to foster collaboration and innovation.

The conference agenda covers a diverse range of topics with over 50 hours of content and 6 content-led streams, with program highlights including:

  • Hydrogen Derivatives - With hydrogen gaining steam, exciting derivatives like ammonia, LOHC, and methanol are emerging as solutions for decarbonizing aviation, shipping, agriculture, and beyond. Deep-dive into the vast potential of these clean fuels to transform supply chains by displacing fossil incumbents.
  • Hydrogen End Use – Customer focus is key to hydrogen success. This year’s end-use track directly serves major industries eyeing adoption – from steel to transport to chemicals. Drill into the priorities and pain points of these key buyers to gain insights to inform your hydrogen strategy.
  • Hydrogen Hubs - Six months after their high-profile launch, how are the hydrogen hubs advancing? Check in with key players across all hubs to get inside reports on progress made, obstacles encountered, and strategies evolved.
  • Masterclasses – Explore critical topics in depth, including the IRA, safety, derivatives, electrolyzers, and much more. With laser focus and expert guidance, gain specific knowledge to boost confidence and maximize on-the-job impact.
  • Dedicated Roundtable Discussions – Go beyond thought leadership to real-world problem-solving in intimate roundtables for stakeholders to tackle obstacles and identify solutions directly with their peers. Whether exploring technical hurdles, policy needs, or marketplace dynamics, our roundtables foster action-oriented dialogue and tangible strategies.

Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights from industry leaders, participate in interactive sessions, and forge meaningful connections with peers and potential collaborators. Additionally, the event will showcase cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions through an exhibition featuring leading companies and organizations in the hydrogen value chain.

Explore the full agenda, speaker lineup, exhibition floorplan and much more in the event brochure, which can be downloaded here.

This is the #1 hydrogen industry event to learn, network, and help shape the future of clean hydrogen in North America and beyond.

Register your place to join World Hydrogen North America event today, with early bird discounts available until April 26th. For more information and to secure your spot, visit https://bit.ly/WHNA24PR

Picking up the hard hat: what are common factors preventing workers using head protection

Wearing a hard hat is mandatory in many applications and industries, protecting the safety of individuals in potentially hazardous environments. However, wearing PPE can be seen by users as a hindrance rather than an important safety feature for their workday.

This is typically the learned experience of industrial professionals who’ve found, at times, that some hard hats can bring on headaches, make them hot and sweaty, or often don’t fit properly. At MSA Safety, we believe that the most effective hard hat is the one a worker will want to wear.

A more comfortable helmet can not only empower workers, but it could also make them feel safer, happier, improve productivity and even boost their confidence allowing them to better focus on the job at hand.

To understand what makes a great hard hat, we need to dissect some key issues associated with common protective headwear solutions on the market today and find out what exactly is deterring users from wearing this vital piece of protective equipment correctly. Here, we outline some of the most common factors which could hinder correct usage of hard hats on site, and how selecting the appropriate hard hat can help to reduce this.

Temperature regulation

From construction professionals operating outside in the scorching heat to mechanical specialists contracted to conduct works in boiler rooms, many industrial workers find themselves carrying out demanding jobs in incredibly warm environments. The combination of heat and physical exertion can make wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) extremely uncomfortable if the appropriate hard hat has not been selected for the workers.

Hard hats can be warm, trap sweat and perspiration can make them fog. To help reduce this, helmets with ventilation should be opted for, these helmets can also be adapted to improve comfort. Sweatbands made from a soft, sweat-absorbing, and respiring material can be incorporated, washed and replaced.

Equally, wearing hard hats can be just as uncomfortable for workers operating during winter months or in colder environments. Similarly, accessories can be incorporated to aid comfort. Winter liners, for example, can assist with temperature regulation, helping to protect workers from the cold and keep them warmer. In addition, for those working outdoors, helmets with integrated rain gutters may be more practical for workers, ensuring water drains off the bill rather than down the wearer’s neck.

The type of environment your workers are operating in is an essential factor to consider when choosing the appropriate hard hat for your workers.

All day comfort

If protective hard hats don’t have a good fit and appropriate straps to keep them in place, they can slip, slide and move around becoming a distraction for workers.

Understandably, this can be a top factor which contributes to workers not wearing their hard hat when it’s needed. Indeed, if a helmet slips down then vision may be impaired and if it needs to be adjusted at critical moments then potentially dangerous tools may not be under a worker’s full control.

Thankfully, there are ways to solve this problem and keep hard hats firmly in place. A six-point ratchet textile suspension will contribute to comfort, enabling the helmets to be adjusted to fit a range of head sizes and genders, thus providing an inclusive and secure fit. This will minimise rattling and slippage, even when users are repeatedly looking around. Equally, a four-point textile chinstrap will also help to reinforce the retention of the helmet on your head.

While comfort, at least in part, stems from temperature regulation and fit, the actual feel of the helmet against your head is also crucial.

For this reason, soft textile straps and good suspension is invaluable. However, an effective hard hat should also prevent hair pulling, compression headaches, facilitate good airflow, and feature a quality ratchet system for quick, smooth and reliable adjustments.

Appropriate for work applications

Ultimately, hard hats become an extension of your head during the workday. And, in cases of confined or restrained spaces smaller equipment is often more practical. In these applications users can look to acquire models that have a modern dynamic design with a low-profile, compact, sports-styled shell without protruding peaks.

Of course, the solution depends on the application. Short peak or peak-less safety helmets can be better for workers requiring good upwards visibility, yet standard peaks are better for protecting your eyes from the sun. In addition, non-vented shells should always be used in environments where chemicals or hot liquids may be projected.

In this instance, it’s also important to consider the accessories that are appropriate for certain applications, movements and tasks. If it is hard to tweak the sizes and straps, then any additional features will add little value and may go unused. For this reason, it is important that users can easily adjust the size of their hard hat for a secure fit, even while wearing safety gloves.

Aesthetics

Finally, it is not just a case of what a helmet feels like, but what they look like too. People like to look their best in their personal lives and often at work too. This acceptance of the protective headwear can equate to the worker taking better care of their equipment - which can extend the lifespan of each model and make product investments go further.

When considering aesthetics, a safety helmet that has a modern, low-profile sporty design is likely to be more desirable than larger, chunkier alternatives. However, you should always look to prioritise the level of protection - because safety should never be compromised for style.

How to choose the right hard hat for you

There are a diverse range of factors to consider from suspension, soft textile materials, vented or non-vented models, to heat regulation accessories, size and aesthetics.

Appropriately selecting the model and relevant accessories could provide many benefits. Not only can the right hard hat help to improve the safety of your staff, but it can also aid in increased confidence, contribute to a happier workforce, and boost productivity by enabling workers to work more efficiently.

Visit msasafety.com to learn more about exactly what to look for when selecting a hard hat that meets the specific comfort, aesthetic and productivity requirements of your workforce.  

Lighting an environmentally responsible way: The New Peli™ 3335 Zone 0 R

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The latest addition to the Peli range of rugged safety torches is the 3335 Zone 0 rechargeable model.

Built tough to perform in the harshest environments, with an IP67 waterproof body this torch is a testament to reliability and safety. Providing an impressive 246-lumen output, it effortlessly pierces through darkness, providing clarity in the most challenging workspaces.

Designed for longevity, the 3335 Zone 0 boasts an extraordinary 58 hours of run time, ensuring prolonged usage without compromising performance. The ATEX Zone 0 certification signifies its capability to operate in potentially explosive atmospheres, making it an indispensable tool for industries with stringent safety standards.

There are 3 light modes: High, Low and flashing and a built-in battery level indicator to ensure you never get left in the dark.  A right-angle adaptor is available as an accessory to allow the user to attach it to a jacket for hands-free use.  This adaptor also allows the head to articulate, directing the light exactly where required.

Beyond its industrial benefits, this model champions environmental sustainability. The rechargeable feature eliminates the need for disposable batteries, minimizing waste and environmental impact. The lithium-ion rechargeable battery offers a life expectancy of over 2000 cycles, 4 times more than the usual amount and the long battery life further contributes to resource conservation, promoting a more sustainable approach to lighting solutions.

Sales Director David Smith commented “This torch is very impressive; a high-quality rechargeable product that combines a compact design with a rugged yet lightweight body offering resilience, efficiency, and a commitment to environmental responsibility.”

The Peli Products (UK) range of tough safety torches is certified to ATEX Zone 0 and Zone 1 and includes head torches, right angled models, compact versions and large hand lamps; all designed for use in hazardous areas.   All these Peli torches carry the legendary “You break it, we replace it” lifetime guarantee.

For more details go to www.peliproducts.co.uk or ring the Peli Products (UK) team: 01457 869999.

Empowering Change: World Hydrogen North America Spotlights Female Leaders on International Women's Day

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As the world commemorates International Women’s Day, World Hydrogen North America is proud to announce a dynamic lineup of female speakers set to take the stage at the upcoming event in Houston. Scheduled for May 21-23, 2024, this highly anticipated conference will bring together over 1,200 key players from across the hydrogen value chain to align on solutions to current obstacles, forge new partnerships, and ultimately accelerate the energy transition.

Recognizing the invaluable contributions of women in shaping the hydrogen industry, World Hydrogen North America is committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity within the sector. The event serves as a platform to highlight the expertise and achievements of female leaders who continue to drive innovation and progress in the field.

Among the distinguished speakers at World Hydrogen North America are women who have made significant strides in advancing hydrogen technologies, policy development, and sustainability initiatives, from across the hydrogen value chain, including:

  1. Jane Stricker, Senior Vice President, Energy Transition & Executive Director, Greater Houston Partnership
  2. Ivette Vera-Perez, President and CEO, Canadian Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association
  3. Kristine Clark, Director of Clean Energy Technology, CF Industries
  4. Katrina Fritz, President & CEO, California Hydrogen Business Council
  5. Ana Quelhas, Managing Director Hydrogen, EDP Renewables
  6. Brooke Vandygriff, COO, HIF Global
  7. Dr. Anita Sengupta, CEO, Hydroplane
  8. Colleen Wright, Vice President Corporate Strategy, Constellation
  9. Nora Han, Vice President of Hydrogen Products, ABB
  10. Carolina Lopez-Rocha, Hydrogen Financing and Risk Mitigation Lead, World Bank
  11. Kendall Stephenson, Manger, Policy, Global Energy Institute, U.S. Chamber of Commerce
  12. Katy Perry, Business Development for Sustainable Energy Systems, Siemens Energy
  13. Elizabeth Krasowski, Project Manager, Ramboll
  14. Kimberly Williams, Chief Innovation Officer, Houston METRO
  15. Wiebke Permin, Head of Markets, Market Development Power-to-X, Topsoe
  16. Lauren Skiver, Chief Operating Officer, Transdev North America
  17. Claire Behar, Chief Commercial Officer, Hy Stor Energy
  18. Janice Lin, Founder & President, Green Hydrogen Coalition
  19. Stephanie Celt, Senior Energy Policy Specialist, Washington State Department of Commerce
  20. Nichole Saunders, Senior Attorney Energy, Environmental Defense Fund

"The biggest takeaway has been the tremendous opportunity to collaborate across the region and in policy, regulation and of course the role of industry associations in developing the hydrogen space," said Ivette Vera-Perez, President and CEO, Canadian Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association, at World Hydrogen North America 2023!

In addition to keynote presentations and panel discussions, World Hydrogen North America will provide attendees with networking opportunities, interactive workshops, and exhibits showcasing the latest innovations in hydrogen technology. The event promises to be a valuable platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange among stakeholders committed to advancing the hydrogen economy.

Download the brochure to explore the full agenda, view the entire speaker lineup, topics & themes, exhibition floorplan, who you will meet, how to attend and more.

World Hydrogen North America is the #1 hydrogen industry event to learn, network, and help shape the future of clean hydrogen in North America and beyond!


As the world transitions towards a more sustainable energy future, the role of women in driving innovation and progress cannot be overstated. World Hydrogen North America is honored to celebrate International Women’s Day by highlighting the achievements and expertise of female leaders in the hydrogen industry.

Join hydrogen experts at World Hydrogen North America 2024, May 21-23, Houston

Get involved with World Hydrogen North America and get in touch with the team today!

Book your pass before Friday April 26th to benefit from early bird rates, saving up to $700 – and don’t forget to bring your team to cover all 6 content streams, by taking advantage of 3 for 2 offers! Book directly here: https://bit.ly/WHNA24PR

An increasing range of sectors choose Hart

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Hart Door Systems of Newcastle upon Tyne, the industrial door and security shutters manufacturer and market leader best known for its world-class technology through its leading brands such as Speedor high-speed doors, Firebrand fire shutters and Terror Screen and Typhoon industrial roller shutters, reports multi-sector success so far this year.

“Looking at a handful of current projects we are currently involved with international airports, automotive and general manufacturing, security and confectionary , many of which are major contributors to the UK’s economy,” says Nick Hart, Hart’s managing director.

“Clearly there are situations across all sectors where solutions to door and shutter requirements are similar but in very many cases solutions are uniquely different which is where Hart’s design and manufacturing originality is essential. We are delivering an important asset for our clients.

“Just as our clients thrive on innovation so must we. In particular the pressure on us all in respect of Climate Change means Hart has a crucial role to play through its leading Speedor brand which is in use throughout the UK and on seven continents globally,” adds Mr Hart.

Why is Speedor and its several sub-brands so popular with industry and commence?

“Apart from its proven track record over the years for energy saving and general efficiency, each Speedor can be customised according to specific requirements  in addition to its general reputation for durability and reliability, speed of operation and in these times of Climate Change, a very important reduced environmental impact.

“Presently Hart is involved in projects at a major UK airport, a specialist manufacturer, a regional retailer, a national food ingredients producer and an overseas high-value retailer. “So from protection from storms to protection from villains, we deliver the right door systems for each project,” says Mr Hart.

www.hartdoors.com

Enerpac 100 ton Lock Grip Puller gets to grips with large truck and vehicle maintenance

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Enerpac announces the LGH3100 synchronous lock grip system delivering up to 100 tons of hydraulic force for pulling medium to large size wheels, sprockets, bearings and other similar shaft-mounted parts. The puller’s self-centring closing "Lock-Grip" system moves all jaws simultaneously, allowing a single operator to safely handle removal of large wheels, bearings, and couplers with ease.

Removing large, shaft mounted, components that may have become seized and corroded can be challenge for maintenance operators. Dangerous practices such as torching, cutting and hammering are liable to damage expensive parts leading to maintenance delays and extended equipment downtimes. The 3-jaw LGH3100 Lock-Grip Puller gives operators the ability to detach heavy and stubborn, large shaft mounted components efficiently and without damage.

The 100 ton lock grip puller is mounted on an ergonomically designed rolling cart with a low centre of gravity that minimises the physical effort needed to position and operate the puller. The cart features large industrial castor wheels and pockets for use with a forklift. The hydraulic pulling power is provided by the onboard Enerpac ZE3-Series electric two stage pump and remote operating control pendant.

Removed components are captured and held securely within the synchronous locking jaws. With a maximum reach of 1219 mm, the smooth action, hydraulic scissor lift on the LGH3100 cart provides effortless centre height adjustment from 698 mm to 1679 mm. When both space and budgets are tight, the 3-jaw LG3100 is easily converted into a 2-jaw, 70 ton capacity configuration, avoiding the need to use valuable budget on a separate 2 jaw puller.

“The LGH3100 Lock-Grip Puller is the safe and productive way to remove large shaft mounted components without damage,” says Diego Rossi, Commercial Director Rail Markets EMEA, Enerpac. “The combination of a smooth action scissor lift, synchronized grip jaws and an intuitive operator station creates a stable and efficient pulling tool, allowing a single operator to remove, for example, large wheels, bearings, and couplers with unmatched ease.”

For more information on the Enerpac LGH3100 Lock-Grip Puller, visit www.enerpac.com.

Bespoke electric winch ensures safe and smooth loading of HGVs

The recent supply by Hoist & Winch of a bespoke electric-powered winch to a UK building products company is allowing the safe and smooth lifting and lowering of a large telescopic export chute that loads heavy-goods vehicles (HGVs) with a media byproduct from the customer’s production process. Importantly, raising and descending takes place in a level and precise position thanks to adjustable turn-buckle jacking screws.

Conceived by Hoist & Winch, one of the UK's leading lifting equipment companies, a 400 V three-phase Haacon wire rope winch providing a swl (safe working load) of 1,500 kg sits at the heart of this innovative solution. The advanced winch offers a special triple rope lead-off design that raises and lowers the export chute via one vertically and two horizontally orientated diverter pulleys. A purpose-made frame and bolted connections facilitate mounting of the winch to the steel floor, ensuring level rope pay-off from the winch drum to the three diverter pulleys serving the system.

The final wire rope connection to the export chute is via adjustable turn-buckle jacking screws and swivelling eye bolts, a design that not only provides accurate chute levelling adjustment, but also extends the service life of the wire rope by eliminating any twisting action.

Winch control arrives courtesy of a switchgear enclosure and a two-button, single-speed, hard-wired pendant control station located remotely in an environmentally protected operating cubicle. Environmental protection is vital due to operating temperatures of over 40°C in summer months, as well as excessive dust in the atmosphere and surrounding work areas.

                                                                                                                                                            Continued ……

The new winch system, which replaces an original obsolete solution that had reached the end of its service life, offers a number of further beneficial features to the customer, many relating to safety. For instance, the winch has a pressure roller to ensure secure retention of the wire rope on the drum. This capability is particularly important in the event of a slack wire rope, which might occur due to accidental over-lowering of the chute on to the HGV bed, for example.

Further safety-oriented features include an inverter controlled winch motor to provide very smooth and slow speed control, and grooves in the winch drum to ensure even and secure wire rope winding.

Notably, the scope of supply provided by Hoist & Winch was extremely comprehensive, as Andy Allen, Director of Hoist & Winch, explains: “We provided all pre-installation survey work to ensure correct alignment of the winch, diverter pulleys and associated equipment. In addition, we performed installation commissioning and load testing, all field wiring and the issue of a LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) Thorough Examination Report for the complete system, including diverter pulley support steelwork. We take our responsibilities very seriously in all customer projects, ensuring the delivery of robustly engineered, high-performance solutions that are safe, reliable and fit-for-purpose.”

Delivered on-time and on-budget, the installation took place over a two-day plant shutdown. Hoist & Winch also provided thorough operator training on topics such as winch operation and control functions, as well as daily maintenance checks.

Visit www.hoistandwinch.co.uk for further information and to view recent case studies.

Hoist and Winch Ltd

Unit 20, 11B Arrow Business Park, Alcester Employment Park, Arden Road, Alcester, B49 6HN

Tel:  08450 171126                  

e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

web: www.hoistandwinch.co.uk

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