Features Archive
Archive of features from the global hoist industryFeatures By Date
June 2023
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German crane manufacturer interview: The Kuli conversation
Having been in the crane business for a century, Kuli Hebezeuge - Helmut Kempkes sets out how it is evolving for the future.
The role of overhead cranes in decommissioning nuclear power plants
Starting with nuclear energy in the UK, Tony Rock reports on how overhead cranes around the world are being used in power applications.
May 2023
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AI in control
In his March budget speech UK chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced £900m backing for new super-computer facility to help the UK’s artificial intelligence industry. Julian Champkin investigates AI and whether it can be used in crane control
Breakbulk In Rotterdam
Breakbulk Europe, which takes place in Holland, provides visitors with a networking platform to grow connections, generate new business and strengthen key existing relationships.
Southern European crane makers target carbon reduction
From Spain at one end of the Mediterranean to Greece at the other, makers of lifting machinery are thriving. Among their priorities are reducing carbon footprint and increasing the use of digital technology. Julian Champkin reports.
Manual chain hoists: Inspect it, correct it!
Tony Rock speaks to a crane engineer to find out the kinds of maintenance issues that can affect manual chain hoists.
Making the case for manual chain hoists
In a world full of automation and tech, it’s the simplest solutions that are often the best. Two companies – one manufacturer and one rental firm – make the case for manual chain hoists. Tony Rock reports.
The lifting equipment at work in the offshore construction industry
Offshore construction is dominated by the need for renewable wind power. Wind farms need specialised and challenging lifting equipment. Julian Champkin reports.
April 2023
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How simulator training can mitigate dockside risks
DLM sits down with Devon van de Kletersteeg, product manager, ports, CM Labs, to talk about creating real-time interactive simulations within virtual environments, to better train port staff
Ports and environmental sustainability: The future is green
As operations can impact air quality, water quality and land use, many ports are investing in cleaner technologies and environmentally friendly operating practices to meet federal and international standards. Jenny Eagle investigates.
Forklifts: Two-pronged attack
There has been no shortage of new products and technology from the forklift industry’s heavy hitters. Jack Carfrae rounds up the latest launches and developments.
Tech in the US warehouse
The lifting materials handling sector in the US is experiencing a period of transformation as warehouse operations require greater levels of digitalisation and automation than ever before. Maria Highland reports.
Warehouse working: Taking the strain
Warehouses rely on manpower to get things done, but behind every warehouse worker is lifting materials handling equipment helping make operations safer and more efficient, writes Maria Highland.
March 2023
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Gantry cranes: A leg up for loads
Gantry cranes are quite simply lifting devices on legs. Julian Champkin looks at this most useful of concepts.
US labour shortages: Hard work finding the staff
With the US facing labour shortages, supply chain issues and even talk of a recession, several businesses in the overhead crane industry describe what they are doing to help not only their customers, but themselves too. Tony Rock reports.
Chicago here we go!
ProMat is where manufacturing and supply chain professionals discover new trends and tech and what the future holds for their operations.
Central European hoist manufacturers: giving the region a lift
Central Europe’s manufacturing is a major part of the global economy, and hoist manufacturing demonstrates the fact. Julian Champkin reports.
Electrolift: How to keep aerospace customers happy
A manufacturer of electric wire rope hoists reveals how it keeps its customers happy and coming back for more.
Moon mission: We have lift-off
PAR Systems is doing some of the heavy lifting as Nasa sets its sights on putting man on the moon and Mars.
February 2023
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Monitoring loads: Made to measure
In the age of big data, load monitoring can tell you all you need to know and more about what is hanging on the end of your hook. It can also tell you what has hung there before, for how long, how far it travelled, and what the total strain on your hoisting rope has been. Julian Champkin reports.