Manitowoc has officially launched the Hup 40-30, the second model in the new Potain Hup range.

The pioneering self-erecting tower crane, first shown as a prototype at Bauma 2016, boasts a range of innovative-design and technology features.

The crane was unveiled to more than 320 guests during an event at Manitowoc’s factory in Niella Tanaro, Italy.

Jean-Pierre Zaffiro, Manitowoc's global product director for Potain self-erecting cranes, said the new Hup 40-30 represents a new era in self-erecting cranes, with new technologies enabling more versatility than ever before.

“We are at the forefront of self-erecting crane development and our new Hup 40-30 demonstrates this,” he explained. “We have introduced several new features with the Hup range that will increase speed, efficiency and versatility for our customers. These advancements will certainly increase return on investment for many lifters.”

New versatility

The Hup 40-30 has a 40 m (131 ft) jib and boasts 16 configurations, which is unique in this category of self-erecting cranes. The many configurations enable it to be easily adapted for a range of applications. The crane has a maximum capacity of 4 t (4.4 USt), and can lift 1 t (1.1 USt) at its jib end of 40 m (131 ft).

As with the Hup 32-27, the new Hup 40-30 features a telescopic mast that provides a range of working heights. Its design boosts the height under hook to 25.6 m (84 ft) in its “low position,” and 30 m (98 ft) when fully extended. The logistics are also improved, as no extra mast is required to install the crane.

Further versatility is delivered with the crane’s luffing jib that offers three positions: horizontal, 10° and 20°. These options give the crane a height under hook range of 20 m (65 ft) to 40 m (131 ft). Shortening or extending the jib is a swift and straightforward operation, with the Hup 40-30 offering convenient configurations for both short and long jib lengths.

Agility on the job site is a key consideration for the new range. The Hup 40-30 has a high-performance slewing radius that allows it to be positioned closer to buildings. With a transport package that is only 14 m (46 ft) long when folded, the Hup 40-30 is easy to move from job site to job site.

“Customers will benefit from even greater flexibility and adaptability with these new designs and technologies, enabling them to cover a much wider range of jobs with a single machine,” Zaffiro explained.

On-site advancements

Operator efficiency on the Hup 40-30 is maximized through Manitowoc’s remote control unit. The remote features a large, colored screen with easy to use navigation and optimized ergonomics for operator comfort. Its new Smart Set Up software delivers on-screen step-by-step information during crane erection and enables automatic folding and unfolding of the crane from the crane’s remote.

This new remote system also offers three selectable profiles for operators that vary the working speed of the crane to suit the application: “dynamic,” for quick and easy lifting; “standard,” for typical lifting applications; and “high precision,” for precise load positioning.

The Hup 40-30’s hoist unit features Potain’s High Performance Lifting (HPL) technology that can deliver unparalleled lifting speeds on the job site. The crane is able to deliver this maximum speed as soon as it’s configured on the job site, thanks to its standard four fall rope configuration.

The crane’s High Performance Slewing (HPS) technology enables load moment optimization, even as the crane swings. Integrated maintenance warning indicators also support crane maintenance throughout its lifecycle.

Additionally, the Hup 40-30 features a new Power Control function that enables it to work on a variety of job sites. With this technology, the crane is able to operate via a wide range of power inputs, including from low-level power supplies. This versatility means that the user may not have to provide additional power supplies, which could lower both the costs and preparation for many projects.

The new Potain Hup range replaces existing Igo models of self-erecting cranes, and deliveries of the Hup 40-30 will start in early 2017.

“The new Hup 40-30 represents a significant investment in research and development by Manitowoc, including a period of extensive testing that led to the creation of this advanced model,” Zaffiro said. “This crane is an entire generation ahead of the competition and reaffirms Manitowoc’s position as the global leader of self-erecting cranes.” 

Deutz Corporation will provide Terex Aerial Work Platforms (AWP) Reconditioning Services with Deutz Xchange remanufactured engines for reconditioned Genie aerial equipment, including boom lifts, scissor lifts, and telehandlers.

"Terex was impressed with the three-year transferrable warranty that we offer with our Deutz Xchange engines," said Robert Mann, Deutz Corporation's president and CEO. "That warranty, our proven track record as a trusted supplier of quality product, and the fact Deutz remanufactured engines can be serviced by any Deutz distributor were critical factors in selecting Deutz for the business."

“Terex AWP Reconditioning Services provides customers with a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new machines,” said Bob Bartley, Genie senior director of product support and reconditioning for Terex AWP. “The increasing popularity of reconditioned Genie aerial equipment is supported by a same-as-new warranty, short lead time and strong service network. Deutz Xchange engines mirror the fundamental qualities integral to these reconditioned units.

“Due to the rapid expansion of the reconditioning business, Terex needed to partner with a supplier that has a long, proven track record of supporting our operation’s growth. The reconditioning business is highly dynamic due to the wide variety of Genie aerial equipment models available. It would be challenging to grow this business without a flexible, capable supplier.”

Deutz's Pendergrass, GA. remanufacturing facility was able to ramp up supply to Terex within two weeks of receiving the initial order. Existing Terex production logistics channels were leveraged to smoothly add the incremental demand from the company’s reconditioning operations. Beyond engine supply, Deutz Xchange operations will provide a “plug-and-play” dressed engine including mounting components and ancillary system installed to minimize cycle time and manufacturing complexity for the Terex reconditioning facility.    

"We're honored to partner with Terex," said Steve Corley, chief sales officer for Deutz Corporation. "Our combined efforts with Terex will both grow and strengthen the relationship with our broad, shared, end-customer base.”

Load-weighing specialist Straightpoint has launched its new global product guide, both in print and as a PDF that can be downloaded from the company's website.

The new guide features all specifications in both metric and imperial measurements and is full of new and improved products:

1. In addition to Radiolink wireless compression loadcells, the company's load shackles, running-line tensiometer, and Loadpin products are now ATEX / IECEx approved with classification Ex ia II C T4 Ga and available for use in zones 0, 1, and 2 hazardous areas (gas).

2. Already an entertainment-industry favorite, the popular cabled Low Headroom loadlink is now available as a wireless load cell that can be connected to the multi-channel SW-MWLC software.

3. For the arborist, the guide offers the new wireless Impact Block load cell. Designed to be used with Straightpoint handheld displays or data logging software, the Impact Block provides high speed dynamic load data.

4. Wireless center-of-gravity software has been rewritten with ISO19901 in mind. It now allows up to 36 wireless compression loadcells to be used simultaneously and generates a full CG report with averaging, standard deviation, wind speed, and many other extras.

5. New software written for the load-testing industry – Proof Test plus allows real-time, wireless monitoring of a load test and lets the operator create real-time test certificates with full audit trail.

6. Straightpoint has added its SA700 wireless loadcell transmitter to the guide. The unique product may be connected to any manufacturer's cabled loadcell to convert it into a wireless loadcell that can be used with Straightpoint displays and software.

JCB has named Stuart Fox to the newly created position of West Coast product sales manager.

Fox has joined the field sales team and works with JCB regional sales managers, dealers, and customers as a technical resource and educator on all JCB products.

"I'm here to be an expert resource who can help all of the JCB regional sales managers, our dealers, customers, and potential customers throughout the West," said Fox.

He holds an engineering degree from the University of Georgia and has spent the previous four and a half years as JCB's product manager for telehandlers and vertical-mast forklifts.

Fox has relocated from JCB's North American headquarters in Savannah, Ga., to Temecula, Calif., for the new position. His territory includes New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, Arizona, California, Oregon, and Washington.

Investment in equipment and software is expected to contract -0.5%in 2016, according to the Q4 update to the 2016 Equipment Leasing & Finance U.S. Economic Outlook released by the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation.

The Foundation lowered its forecast to -0.5%, down from the 0.9% growth it forecast in its Q3 update to the 2016 Annual Outlook released in July.

After contracting during the first two quarters, the new report forecasts modest equipment and software investment growth for the rest of 2016, as economic headwinds continue to weigh on investment spending and confidence.

The Economic Outlook, which is focused on the $1-trillion equipment leasing and finance industry, highlights key trends in equipment investment and places them in the context of the broader U.S. economic climate.

Ralph Petta, president of the Foundation and president and CEO of the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association, said, “The softer growth numbers projected for 2016 reflect overall hesitancy on the part of business decision-makers to invest in equipment and software until the cloud that is the U.S. election cycle clears in November.  A potential wild card impacting 2017 investment growth is the Federal Reserve’s decision whether to increase short-term interest rates prior to year end.”

Highlights from the study:

•   Overall equipment and software investment is expected to contract -0.5% in 2016 after expanding by 3.8% in 2015. The report predicts that after a slow start to the year, there is potential for a modest rebound in the second half of the year. However, poor performance in Q1 and Q2 virtually guarantee that 2016 will be a disappointing year for growth in both the overall economy and business investment.

•   In 2016, the U.S. economy is likely to experience modest growth of 1.6% overall, as strong labor markets, consumer spending, housing growth, and a somewhat weaker dollar collectively drive growth, but are largely offset by weak business investment and government spending.

•   Business demand for credit remains generally weak but has not deteriorated significantly from last quarter. The Federal Reserve Board opted to delay an interest rate hike in September, but a rate increase is expected in late 2016.

•   The Foundation-Keybridge U.S. Equipment & Software Investment Momentum Monitor, which is included in the report and tracks 12 equipment and software investment verticals, forecasts that several equipment verticals should see an improvement in the investment climate through the end of the year and into next year. Over the next three to six months:
   o   Agriculture machinery investment growth will likely remain subdued.
   o   Construction machinery investment growth may rebound modestly.
   o   Materials handling equipment investment is likely to strengthen.
   o   All other industrial equipment investment growth is expected to rebound.
   o   Medical equipment investment should remain solid.
   o   Mining and oilfield machinery investment growth will likely remain sluggish.
   o   Aircraft investment growth is likely to strengthen.
   o   Ships and boats investment growth should remain muted.
   o   Railroad equipment investment growth is poised to rebound.
   o   Trucks investment growth should improve.
   o   Computers investment growth should remain modest.
   o   Software investment growth should remain solid.

The Foundation produces the Equipment Leasing & Finance U.S. Economic Outlook report in partnership with economics and public policy consulting firm Keybridge Research. The annual economic forecast provides a three-to-six month outlook for industry investment with data, including a summary of investment trends in key equipment markets, credit market conditions, the U.S. macroeconomic outlook and key economic indicators. The Q4 report is the third and final update to the 2016 Annual Outlook.

Download the full report at www.leasefoundation.org/research/eo/

More than 60 NCCCO commissioners, committee members, and guests are expected to attend the 41st Biannual NCCCO commissioner meeting hosted at Industrial Training International's Woodland, Wash., headquarters and training center, Oct. 18-21.

The week-long event will include the full commissioners' meeting, which will be highlighted by updates to the rule-making process for several pending OSHA regulations (including crane operator qualification and technical amendments), reports on recent action items from various NCCCO committees, and an update from the NCCCO board of directors. 

Non-NCCCO members are invited to attend, but ITI asks that interested attendees pre-register.

The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) was formed in January 1995, as a non-profit organization with it mission to develop effective performance standards for safe crane operation to assist all segments of general industry and construction. By providing thorough, independent assessments of knowledge and skills, NCCCO aims to enhance lifting equipment safety, reduce workplace risk, improve performance records, stimulate training, and give due recognition to the professionals who work in, with, and around cranes.

ITI participates formally on the Lift Director Committee with Joseph Kuzar, Assistant Technical Director, and the company has sponsored NCCCO events in the past.

ITI has invited local companies to participate in this meeting through sponsorships including Kiewit, West Coast Training, West Coast Wire Rope, and Samson Rope Technologies.

A special addition to the fall meeting is the ITI Virtual Reality (VR) Mobile Crane Simulator, which will be open for attendee demonstrations and feedback throughout the meeting. The VR Crane Simulator is scheduled for a March 2017 release, and will include a simulation course that serves as a preparation tool for national certification crane operator practical exams.

Anyone interested in attending the Oct. 18-21 meeting, should email info@iti.com or call 800.727.6355.

Sims Crane, Tampa, Fla., has appointed Chris Arnold as general manager of its new office in Titusville, Fla.

Arnold is a 20-year crane, rigging, and sling industry veteran. Before joining Sims, he had worked 15 years for Ashley Sling Inc. in several capacities, including territory manager. Arnold joined Sims in 2012 as a crane applications specialist, most recently in the company’s Orlando office.

The Sims Titusville office opened in August to meet current and potential customer needs on the Space Coast and throughout Brevard and Volusia counties. Located at 6855 Tico Rd. in Titusville, the Sims Space Coast office is expected to be staffed by 11 employees and have four or more cranes on site.

“Opening a new office takes a great deal of work and dedication, which is why we tapped Chris to lead our new Space Coast location,” said Dean Sims II, Sims Crane vice president of marketing.

CVT Corp., Montreal, Quebec, a world leader in the advanced engineering, design, and manufacture of mechanical continuously variable transmissions (mCVT) has signed a distributor and service agreement with Great Lakes Power Service Co., of Mentor, Ohio, to represent them in the continental United States.

With the anticipated production launch in 2017 of the mCVT products in off-highway, ag, and industrial markets, CVT is gearing up to make sure customers and end users will have the support they expect.

Great Lakes Power will support all service and warranty activities for
CVT products and will also work to distribute some defined products in key market areas.

Great Lakes Power is a family owned business headquartered in Mentor, Ohio. With four operating entities (Great Lakes Power Products, Great Lakes Power Service, North Atlantic Power Products and
US Power), and working from 14 locations throughout the Midwest and Eastern United States, it serves a global market in the off-highway power transmission and drive-train industries.

With more than 100 employees, Great Lakes Power distributes, provides
aftermarket service support, supplies parts, manufactures, and remanufactures products and provides engineering support for a wide range of off-highway transmissions, axles , marine transmissions, power takeoffs, and other mechanical drive systems, electronic and mechanical
control systems, filtration and lubrication systems, and many other power transmission and drive train products and components.

Daniel Girard, CVT Corp. CEO and founder said: “We, at CVT Corp. are excited about partnering with the Great Lakes Power Group to support our current and future customers. Their national presence and knowledgeable workforce will ensure our customer base will have access to the best in class after sales support. In addition, they bring an extensive knowledge of the market and have a number of key contacts with potential customers that will aid us in continuing to develop new markets.”

Rick Pennza, Great Lakes Power’s president and CEO added: “For over 43 years, Great Lakes Power has been an industry leader in providing power transmission and drive train products and service to our customers and we are excited that CVT Corp. has called upon us to support their product offering in the US.”

Raymond Excavating, Marysville, Mich., has expanded its fleet with a new five-axle, 240-USt Grove GMK5200-1 all-terrain crane.

Grove dealer Walter Payton Power Equipment supplied the GMK5200-1 to Raymond, building on a partnership of more than 13 years.

Raymond Excavating bought the Grove GMK5200-1 all-terrain crane to meet the needs of customers in eastern, central, and southeastern Michigan.

Upon delivery in March of 2016, the new Grove crane was immediately put to work in a variety of lifting jobs, including placement of HVAC units, large concrete box culverts, and installation of communication towers that stand as tall as 200 ft.

The recent purchase of the GMK5200-1 comes 48 years after Raymond bought its first Grove, a 15-USt TM215 truck-mounted crane, which enabled the business to introduce lifting services to its customers.

Today, all of Raymond’s nine cranes are either Grove or National Crane brands, both part of the Manitowoc family.

Raymond's owner and president Dave Burgess said: “We count on cranes that can meet our capacity needs while being able to easily travel on regional roads in this part of Michigan. The GMK5200-1 delivers on both fronts. Its 240-USt capacity is plenty for most of our customers’ needs, and its mobility allows us to access job sites where other cranes might have a harder time fitting.”

Raymond Excavating was founded in 1954 by current president David Burgess' father, Raymond Burgess, who has retired but still maintains an office on the premises.

“There are many relationships between Raymond Excavating and its customers that go back to when the company was started,” said Mike Meagher, crane specialist at Walter Payton Power Equipment. “Those relationships are at the heart of its business model of dependable and consistent service. The family works together to ensure the quality that their longtime customers have come to expect.”

Brandon Burgess, vice president of Raymond Excavating since 2012 and son of Dave Burgess, recalled the reliable support his company has received over the last 13 years from Riverdale, Illinois-based Walter Payton.

“Our experience with Walter Payton has been that of a true partnership,” he said. “We always have good results when crane technicians are needed. Many times we can reach them by cell phone and solve a problem quickly that way, or at least buy us some time until they can get to the crane.”

Rolled out in 2015, the five-axle Grove GMK5200-1 was one of the first mobile cranes to feature the VIAB turbo clutch module, which eliminates fluid overheating and clutch burning while also delivering improved fuel economy, maneuverability, and driver comfort. It works with the carrier's integrated retarder to provide wear-free braking and starting.

The GMK5200-1's other key features include interchangeable counterweight slabs, a self-rigging auxiliary hoist, and a 210-ft. boom that better reach and higher capacities than many competing five-axle cranes.

Raymond Excavating specializes in several kinds of construction, including road building, sewer and water mains, pipelines, and other residential, commercial, and industrial work. Although the company lays claim to six subsidiaries, most of Raymond Excavating’s jobs are within 100 miles of Marysville, in eastern Michigan.

“We are a very busy, hard-working family for sure,” reiterated Dave Burgess. “But we don’t work that way because we have to, we work that way because we love it.”

Walter Payton Power Equipment, a Grove, National Crane, and Manitowoc dealer and service center, is the largest crane and heavy-equipment distributor in the Midwest with full-service facilities in Riverdale, Lebanon and Evansville Ind.; Louisville, Ky.; and Taylor, Mich.

After more than 41 years with Caterpillar Inc., chairman and CEO Doug Oberhelman will retire, effective March 31, 2017.

During his time as chairman and CEO, Oberhelman has reinvigorated the company’s focus on serving customers while also driving a culture of quality and safety. He led the company to the highest sales and revenue peak in its 91-year history in 2012, and since then has successfully led the company through the unprecedented downturn affecting its key industries.

During Oberhelman’s tenure:

Product quality has reached historically high levels.
Market position for machines has increased significantly. 
New Lean Management processes have simplified and sped production, improving product availability for dealers and customers. 
The company has increased its quarterly dividend by 83% since 2010.
The balance sheet is strong, and at the end of the second quarter of 2016, Caterpillar’s Machinery Energy & Transportation debt-to-capital ratio was 39.0%,  with $6.764 billion in cash as of June 30, 2016.
Global safety metrics for employees have improved dramatically, with the Recordable Injury Frequency improving each year. 
Caterpillar has been granted nearly 7,300 patents worldwide.
The company dramatically expanded its commitment to lower owning and operating costs for customers by connecting new and existing equipment through digital technology and data analytics.

“Our people have heard me say many times that my greatest responsibility as chairman and CEO is to manage Caterpillar for today and position the company and its future leaders for long-term success,” Oberhelman said. “It has been an honor and a privilege to lead this company, and I am confident in the choice of my successor, Jim Umpleby.”

“During the last four years, Caterpillar has faced unprecedented global economic conditions that have significantly impacted the industries served by our customers, as those industries and economic growth in many regions around the world have slowed or severely contracted," Oberhelman added. "Faced with these challenges, our employees have responded like champions. We have improved our market position and grown our field population. Our product quality is at historically high levels, and I believe we are leading the industry in digital capabilities."

Oberhelman further said: "I am confident that Caterpillar is stronger than ever, with product quality, power, technology and innovation that is the envy of our competitors. Add to that lean and agile manufacturing capabilities and an unrivaled global distribution channel. The future is bright.”

That future will be overseen by Oberhelman's hand-picked successor, Jim Umpleby.

Caterpillar's board of directors has elected Umpleby, currently Caterpillar Group President for Energy & Transportation, to succeed Oberhelman as CEO.

Umpleby, a 35-year veteran of the company, will join the Caterpillar board of directors and become CEO effective January 1, 2017.

His Caterpillar career began in 1980, when he joined Solar Turbines Incorporated in San Diego, California. Solar is a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc. It is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of industrial gas turbine systems.

Early in his career, he held numerous positions of increasing responsibility in engineering, manufacturing, sales, marketing, and customer services. Umpleby lived in Asia from 1984 to 1990, with assignments in Singapore and in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Caterpillar Board of Directors elected Umpleby a Caterpillar vice president and president of Solar Turbines in 2010. He was named Group President and a member of Caterpillar’s Executive Office, effective January 2013.

“For more than 91 years, Caterpillar equipment has been renowned for its quality, durability, innovation and value,” Umpleby said. “I have been privileged to work with Caterpillar employees and dealers in supporting our customers as they develop the world’s infrastructure and improve standards of living and quality of life. I look forward to leading our dedicated team as we build upon the accomplishments of those that have come before us.”

Oberhelman will remain as executive chairman of Caterpillar until March 31, 2017, when he will retire.

Upon Oberhelman’s retirement, Dave Calhoun, a current member of the Caterpillar Board, will assume the role of non-executive chairman of the board. Calhoun is senior managing director and head of Private Equity Portfolio Operations at The Blackstone Group L.P.

Ed Rust, former chairman and CEO of State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, and currently presiding director of the Caterpillar board, will remain on the board, but will no longer hold the title of presiding director once Calhoun assumes the role of non-executive chairman.

“The Board has a robust, best-in-class succession planning process for the critical roles of chairman of the board and chief executive officer as well as other top executive positions," Rust said. "One of our top priorities as a board is developing a strong pipeline of senior leaders. Discussions are held throughout each year, and today’s announcement is the result of these ongoing and deliberate board discussions.”

Rust added: “I am certain Jim will continue the superb leadership, which is the hallmark of Caterpillar, in the years to come. I especially want to thank Doug for his strong and outstanding leadership of the company throughout his tenure, particularly in the last four years, when the global economic environment has created unprecedented challenges for Caterpillar. We wish Doug all of the best for a successful retirement following a distinguished and successful 41-year career.”

Calhoun has been a member of the Caterpillar board of directors since 2011. In addition to his role with the Blackstone Group, he was previously executive chair of Nielsen Holdings N.V. (2014-2015), served as chairman of the executive board and CEO of The Nielsen Company B.V. (2006-2013), vice chairman of General Electric Company, and president and CEO of GE Infrastructure (2005-2006).

“I am honored to take on these new responsibilities with Caterpillar, an iconic and global leader,” Calhoun said. “Following a deliberate succession process, the board confidently elected Jim as Caterpillar’s next CEO. He reflects the best attributes of Caterpillar’s culture and leadership. I also want to compliment Doug for his outstanding leadership as Chairman and CEO, as the capstone to more than four decades of service. His leadership in the last four years has been remarkable as the company has successfully navigated an incredibly difficult cycle while positioning Caterpillar to take full advantage of the next upturn.”

The company will announce a replacement for Umpleby later.

John Dickinson Williams, 92, founder of Williams Crane and Rigging, passed away on October 11, 2016, after a short illness.

He was born and raised in Arvonia, Va., served as a decorated infantryman during WWII, graduated from Virginia Military Institute with honors as a civil engineer who held a professional engineer certification.

After several years in the construction business, he formed Williams Crane and Rigging, Inc., which specializes in crane rental, heavy hauling, and machinery installation.

Williams Crane was instrumental in the construction of nuclear power plants throughout the eastern United States and received the Specialized Crane and Rigging Association's Hauling Job of the Year Award and the Rigging Job of the Year Award twice.

John served as the Chairman and President of the Specialized Crane & Rigging Association in 1984 to 1985,

In retirement, John remained active as a professional engineer in Mathews County and as a Construction Manager for the building and renovation of numerous homes throughout Virginia.

United Kingdom access rental and sales company, LTS Powered Access has taken delivery of 15 Snorkel electric scissor lifts.

The order placed with Jim Martyr, sales manager for Snorkel UK, consisted of five Snorkel S3219E models, plus five of each of Snorkel’s wider S4726E and S4732E units. The lifts were recently handed over to Paul Fairhall, director at the LTS Powered Access facility in Essex.

Based in Barking, the powered access division of London Tower Service, LTS Powered Access operates a fleet of self-propelled aerial lifts, push-around scissor lifts, and mobile scaffold towers throughout the London area.

Fairhall said, “Snorkel is very easy to do business with. Often it just takes a phone call to have product delivered to us that same week. Also, the after sales support is straightforward and any warranty claims are dealt with quickly and efficiently. All Snorkel machines are really well built and therefore robust enough to cope with the rigors of the hire industry.”

Andrew Fishburn, divisional managing director at Snorkel UK, said, “We are really proud to deliver this order to LTS Powered Access.  We have had a longstanding relationship with Paul and LTS team, and we are honoured to be given this opportunity to demonstrate our continued improvement as a business with our latest generation of electric scissor lifts. I am confident they will be a great additional to the LTS fleet.”

The new electric scissor lifts have been immediately deployed into the LTS Powered Access rental fleet.

Southeastern Equipment Co. Inc., Cambridge, Ohio, has promoted Heath Watton and Mickey Gourley to the position of vice president.

Watton and Gourley will now oversee the daily operations of all Southeastern Equipment locations.

“I am looking forward to seeing the contributions that Heath and Mickey will make in their new roles,” said Charlie Patterson, president of Southeastern Equipment. “Both are veterans of the company and will be charged with enhancing and growing our equipment sales efforts as well as improving our product support capabilities. We look forward totheir continued growth and leadership involvement with Southeastern.”

Gourley's 18 years of sales and customer-service experience began when he joined Southeastern Equipment in 1998 as an outside salesman after earning a bachelor's degree in business from Muskingum University. He quickly moved into increasing levels of management and responsibility, most recently serving as general manager.

Watton's 12-year career with the company began in 2003, when he was hired as a salesman. His experience and knowledge of equipment manufacturing helped him rise to regional manager for Southeast Ohio. Watton's promotion capitalizes on his unique understanding of operations in order to expand the company’s reach. He holds a bachelor's degree in biology from Muskingum University.

As part of their new responsibilities, Gourley and Watton will visit each company location in coming months to refine intracompany communications in order to provide continuity and coordination among all of the branches.

The Manitou Group, a world leader in all-terrain material handling trucks, has appointed Laurent Bonnaure as executive vice president, global sales and marketing, and also as a member of the company's executive committee.

Responsible for the group’s worldwide sales and marketing strategy, he oversees all of the Manitou Group distribution subsidiaries as well as the global sales and marketing teams. He will also manage the global dealer network.

Bonnaure will continue to develop of the Manitou group initiated under François-Frédéric Piffard, who will remain  head of sales and marketing until he retires at the end of 2016. 

Bonnaure holds a master's degree in engineering from the École Centrale Paris graduate school, as well as a DEA (master of advanced studies) in energetics, and a master of sciences degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (USA).

Both French and Canadian, he has held numerous senior management positions in the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, spending 11 years at the Elis Group before taking on the role of deputy managing director and board member of the Fraikin Group for eight years. There, he also held the positions of executive vice president international, chief operating officer, and most recently chief executive development officer.

Piffard will officially hand over the reins to Bonnaure on Dec. 31, 2016, when the former retires after 26 years devoted to the global development of  Manitou Group. 

“Manitou is an extraordinary company that is expanding in global markets and territories that are still open to new growth opportunities thanks to its high-added-value products, the continued innovations in its products and services, and its employees and dealers who are proud of the company and its products," said Bonnaure. "Continuing to strengthen our global leadership and constantly improving our customers’ satisfaction are the main challenges for the coming years. Building on the remarkable work of François-Frédéric Piffard, I will be concentrating my efforts to accelerate Manitou’s development and taking on these new challenges, alongside our teams and our entire network.”

Terex Utilities now offers customers another option for meeting their green-fleet needs with the new HyPower IM, the latest innovation in HyPower hybrid solutions.

“The IM stands for ‘I am’: I am innovative technology. I am efficient. I am lightweight. I am green. I am cost effective,” said Joe Caywood, director of marketing. “HyPower IM allows fleets to meet their green initiatives.”

HyPower IM is an idle-mitigation and cab-comfort solution. HyPower IM provides similar benefits as the HyPower hybrid system, including reduced fuel usage and reduced exhaust emissions, but at a lower price. The system automatically switches from plug-in battery-stored power when the truck is idling to engine-supplied power when hydraulic controls are engaged.

“Throughout an eight-hour work day, on a typical trouble truck, the aerial’s hydraulic controls are engaged about one hour total run time," said Tyler Henderson, product development manager. "By allowing the hydraulic system to switch to engine power during those brief intervals, HyPower IM is still able to provide emissions efficiencies plus optimum hydraulic control function. The transition is seamless. Operators will experience no lag time in hydraulic responsiveness,” Henderson said.

Operator Convenience and Comfort

Because HyPower IM starts and stops automatically when the truck is put into park and when hydraulic controls engage, utility workers do not have to take physical action to switch from engine to battery powered systems.

In addition, HyPower IM enables the truck cab to be heated or cooled without the engine running, using the truck's heating and cooling vents. A 4-KWH package is required for the cab comfort feature, otherwise, a 1-KWH package will suffice for typical trouble-truck applications.

Specifications

HyPower IM is currently available for Class 5 chassis, such as Ford, Dodge, and GM trucks, used with Terex Hi-Ranger telescopic aerial devices, such as the LT, LTM, and TL series units.

HyPower IM is a 48V Lithium ion battery system that charges from either a standard 120V plug in or the 12V chassis engine alternator during road travel. HyPower IM uses fewer, more high efficient batteries, decreasing overall vehicle weight and increasing payload capacity while still providing maximum fuel efficiency.

“HyPower IM provides an affordable solution for EEI member companies to meet Edison Electric Institute’s goal of investing 5% of annual fleet budgets to plug-in vehicles and technologies,” said Henderson.  The system can be ordered with new Terex aerial devices or retrofitted on existing fleets.

For more information on HyPower IM, visit http://info.terex.com/hypoweriminfo.

Hirschmann MCS' recent conference in Chambersburg, Pa., educated about 25 dealers from the United States and Canada about the company's new products, including the PRS90 wireless indicator and qSCALE load-moment indicator. 

Participants learned about the features of the new products in relation to the variety of solutions they have to offer mobile machine applications in the aftermarket.

Attendees were also introduced to various container-weighing solutions currently available for port, harbor, and intermodal applications. 

Seventy-eight percent of respondents in a survey of businesses used at least one form of financing when acquiring equipment in FY 2015, according to the U.S. Equipment Finance Market Study:  2016-2017 released yesterday by the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation.

That is up from 72% in the previous Foundation market study released in 2012. The 6% rise represents an increase in the overall propensity to finance.

The survey also shows that 68% of the total value of equipment and software acquired in 2015 was financed, a significant increase from the previous estimate of 55% forecast in the 2012 Foundation market study.

The new study, conducted by IHS Markit, predicts the U.S. equipment finance market will grow by 1.31% to reach $1.03 trillion in 2016.

Total public and private investment in equipment and software grew 4% in 2015, to $1.5 trillion, according to the study. In 2016, equipment and software investment is expected to be relatively flat, increasing by only 0.5%.

However, excess liquidity and strong competition have driven down the cost of borrowing, so finance volume is expected to outpace total investment in equipment and software.

The study cites excess global capacity, low commodity prices, a strong dollar, sluggish export markets, and the collapse in drilling for oil and natural gas as main factors holding back capital investment

Ralph Petta, president of the Foundation and president and CEO of the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association, said, “This invaluable research provides a comprehensive picture of the size and scope of the equipment finance sector.  In so doing, the analysis reaffirms the industry as an integral component of the U.S. economy, enabling firms—both large and small—to acquire capital assets to operate and grow their businesses.”

Key Findings
Highlights from the U.S. Equipment Finance Market Study 2016-2017 include:

•   Growth in investment in equipment and software is expected to accelerate slightly in 2017, growing at a 3.0 percent rate. By 2020, total investment in equipment and software is expected to reach $1.8 trillion.

•   The 2015 estimate for the equipment finance market (including software) is $1.02 trillion. The market for equipment and software financing is expected to grow to $1.03 trillion in 2016, and is projected to reach $1.24 trillion in 2020.

•   Sixty-eight percent of all equipment and software acquired in 2015 was financed. Of that, 39 percent was leased, 16% used a secured loan, and 13% used a line of credit. This represents a major shift toward the use of leases and secured loans, which accounted for only 17% and 9% of the total value of financing in 2011, respectively. This also marked a significant shift away from lines of credit, which accounted for 29% in 2012.

•   Bank financing accounted for 47% of financed purchases in 2015, compared to 57% in the 2012 Foundation market study. While banks share of financing activity has decreased, they remain the primary lenders across all equipment types in 2015. Non-bank lenders’ share of equipment financing includes 30% for manufacturers and vendors and 16% for non-bank independent financing companies.

•   Banks continue to focus their new financing efforts on companies with lower risk profiles. The share of bank financing of highly profitable companies (profit greater than 20% of sales) was 43% in 2015, compared to 47% in 2011. Meanwhile the share of bank lending to unprofitable companies declined from 53% to only 26%, as less profitable companies were forced to seek alternative financing options.

•   The share of cash purchases declined for companies of all sizes from 2011 to 2015. Low interest rates, strong competition among lenders and abundant liquidity have made financing equipment acquisitions especially attractive as lenders compete to offer the best rates to borrowers.

•   As in 2012 and a previous 2007 Foundation survey, the 2016 Foundation survey confirms that larger ticket purchases are financed to a greater degree than smaller ticket purchases.

•   The growth of fintech companies has been a major development in the equipment leasing and financing industry recently. Industry experts indicate that fintech companies have driven faster adoption of technology and have contributed to the “digitalization” of the lending process.

•   Executives with knowledge of the leasing and finance industry indicated that customers are increasingly asking for managed solutions or bundled services and usage-based products.

•   Most industry experts indicated that they expect very little impact on the demand for leasing from the introduction of new lease accounting standards in December 2018. Under the new guidance, lessees will be required to recognize assets and liabilities for leases with terms of more than 12 months. As the new standards have been under discussion for many years, executives expressed that firms will be prepared for the changes.

About the Study
U.S. Equipment Finance Market Study: 2016-2017 was conducted by IHS Markit for the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation to provide comprehensive research on the size and expected growth of the U.S. equipment finance market. The study draws on data from a number of sources, including a custom Foundation borrower survey of businesses that acquired equipment in 2015, conducted in July and August 2016 by IHS Markit on behalf of the Foundation. Additional data sources include the Federal Reserve Senior Loan Officer Opinion Survey on Bank Lending Practices, the Federal Reserve Flow of Funds, the U.S. Department of Commerce Bureau of Economic Analysis, the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association’s 2012 Survey of Equipment Finance Activity and the IHS Equipment Market Monitor. The financing market estimates reflect lending to businesses and government agencies. IHS conducted the previous Foundation market study in 2012.

How to Access the Study
The U.S. Equipment Finance Market Study: 2016-2017 is available for free download at www.leasefoundation.org/research/sefi. Key findings, a study results fact sheet and table of contents are also available for free download.

The Indiana Manufacturers Association recently honored gear and drive maker Oerlikon Fairfield by including it as part of the first group of to enter the Indiana Manufacturers' Hall of Fame. The honor recognizes Oerlikon's outstanding contributions to the development of a healthy, dynamic environment in Indiana, and to the state’s overall economic well-being.

“Oerlikon Fairfield is excited to be among the select group of
companies acknowledged at this first-of-its-kind event, and honored to have been selected as an inductee into the newly created Indiana Manufacturers Hall of Fame”, said David Evans,
president and CEO of Drive Systems Americas.

According to Indiana Manufacturers Association (IMA) president Brian Burton, manufacturing represents 30% of Indiana’s gross domestic product. Burton cited Oerlikon Fairfield's long-term dedication to Indiana manufacturing and its continuing support of the IMA in his remarks.

“We are very proud and honored to be part of this select number of companies to enter the hall of fame. This award was made possible by the commitment and passion of the entire staff of the company, said Lou Gilbert, Oerlikon Fairfield director of sales.

The American Rental Association (ARA) board of directors has named Tony Conant as the organization's new executive vice president/CEO, effective mid-November. He succeeds Christine Wehrman, who is retiring after 16 years with the association.

Conant will become the fourth executive vice president/CEO of the ARA since its founding in 1955. He most recently served as chief operating officer (COO) at the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), headquartered in Phoenix. In that position, Conant has been responsible for enabling operational excellence across the company and building capabilities for ISM’s future growth.

ARA President Roger Vajgrt, owner of Home Rental Center & Sales Co., Marshalltown, Iowa, said, “The board of directors is pleased to have Tony join the ARA. We look forward to his leadership and contributions to advance the forward momentum of the association. His professional career experience and education is a definite asset to ARA as we look ahead to the future of the equipment rental industry.”

As ISM's leader of certification, publications, membership, research, finance, IT, and human resources, Conant managed project prioritization, decision ownership, effective resource alignment, measurement, and accountability across the company.

He has spent more than 20 years developing advanced practices in operations and supply chain at world-class companies, including Intel, BASF, Whirlpool, and Bank of America. He previously was the vice president of operations and share services at One Touch Direct, an innovative direct-marketing company, where he oversaw 200% revenue and headcount growth in five years.

“I welcome the opportunity to join such a dynamic organization and staff team,” said Conant. “Hallmarks of the organization are innovative and strategic thinking that represent the equipment rental industry very effectively. I look forward to building upon that ARA legacy with the volunteer leaders and staff members.”

Conant is a native of Detroit. He earned a bachelor's degree in operations management from Madonna University, Livonia, Mich., and an MBA in finance and international economics from the University of Florida, Gainesville. He also completed Six Sigma Black Belt certification from the University of California at San Diego.

Terex Corporation named Steve Filipov as the new president of Terex Cranes, effective immediately.

Filipov will also continue as president of the Terex Material Handling and Port Solutions segment until completion of the announced sale of that segment to Konecranes Plc.

Ken Lousberg, currently president, Terex Cranes, will be leaving the company to pursue other opportunities.

“We thank Ken for his dedicated service and leadership over many years within the AWP segment, Terex China, and his current position with Terex Cranes, and wish him the best in his future endeavors,” said John L. Garrison, Jr., president and chief executive officer.

Commenting on Filipov's new assignment, Garrison added: “Steve is the right person to lead the turnaround efforts to improve our global cranes business. Steve started his career at Terex in the company’s crane business and served as president of Terex Cranes from 2004 to 2008. Steve’s intimate knowledge of the Terex Cranes business, its products and, most importantly, its customers, will put him in an excellent position to start immediately with the work of improving and growing our Cranes business. Steve has demonstrated strong leadership skills during his tenure with Terex and I am confident that in his new responsibility as president of Terex Cranes he will serve us and our customers well.”

Garrison also announced that Kevin O’Reilly, currently vice president of operational finance, will assume the position of group vice president, finance for the Cranes Segment, assisting Filipov with the Cranes turnaround.

O’Reilly has held a number of senior finance roles at Terex over many years, including corporate controller, segment finance leader, business development and strategy, and investor relations. "Kevin’s strong operational finance experience and achievements make him the ideal choice to provide the financial leadership and support that Steve and the entire Cranes team need as they position Cranes for success,” said Garrison.