Caldwell News

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  Caldwell Lifting Attachment Aids U.S. Navy Drone Testing

  January 15 2025

  Happy 10-year anniversary, Dura-Lite Composite Beams! Read how the Caldwell Dura-Lite Composite Beam system helped the U.S. Navy's Triton MQ-4C drone development project in 2015, as reported by ForConstructionPros.com. Why did they choose Dura-Lite? They needed an attachment that wouldn't interfere with electromagnetic testing. We'd also like to give a special shout-out to our long-time distributor partner Certex, who helped guide this exciting custom build. Read about it here.

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  Get Custom Equipment Quotes Faster with Improved SmartSpec Tool

  For crane operators, rigging distributors, and construction managers, every second counts. Caldwell, a leader in the lifting industry, recognizes this urgency and has taken action to meet it head-on. With their innovative SmartSpec online product configurator, Caldwell is setting a new standard in simplifying the process of selecting and ordering custom lifting devices. Here’s how this groundbreaking tool is transforming the below-the-hook lifting device market. Ease of Customization The SmartSpec configurator is designed to let users quickly and effortlessly build a custom lifting solution. Whether it’s for a beam, spreader bar, or one of 14 total lifter models, distributors can input their specific requirements—capacity, dimensions, and additional features—and have a tailored solution generated in just minutes. Jeff Ferchen, Caldwell’s Director of Business Development explains it this way: “The newly redesigned and intuitive interface ensures configurations are straightforward. For example, if your job calls for a 10-ton lifting beam with specific spreads and additional hooks or shackles, SmartSpec will build what you need, get you a quote and provide drawings in a follow-up email,” Ferchen said. “The tool is also smart enough to show you what standard Caldwell option is closest to your request … so you can decide for yourself if you really need the custom unit or if an off-the-shelf size will do. It puts the information and power in your hands to make the best decision.” Enhanced Design for an Even Better Experience SmartSpec has been a trusted tool in the Caldwell toolbox for about five years, but a recent and significant redesign provides the user with vast improvements. In fact, this latest iteration is not just a facelift; it’s a leap forward in usability. The updated interface now provides a more intuitive and streamlined experience, with a logical progression that guides users step by step. All calculations have been meticulously reviewed to make sure SmartSpec is returning the most accurate builds possible. Even non-registered users can use it! In years past, only users with accounts in the Caldwell system who registered on the website were able to try to tool. Now, anyone can go to caldwellinc.com and give it a go. Anonymous users will not get pricing immediately but will instead get a response from the Caldwell Customer Service team. Why does this matter? Now a distributor can give the URL to a customer and that customer can play around with the tool at his/her leisure. Or, people searching for custom equipment can find the configurator tool and Caldwell will be able to refer that inquirer to the appropriate distributor. From selecting the initial specifications to fine-tuning the details, the process is smoother and more user-friendly. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time user, the redesigned SmartSpec minimizes guesswork and maximizes efficiency. Fast Turnaround: Pricing and Drawings in Minutes One of SmartSpec’s standout features is its speed. Once you’ve created your custom device, the configurator almost instantly provides detailed drawings and accurate pricing, taking a process that used to take a week or more into one that just takes a few minutes. Ferchen elaborated, “When distributors can share quotes with their customers faster, they’re more likely to win the sale, grow the relationship, and keep projects on track.” “Having the ability to generate quotes and detailed specs in minutes is a game-changer for our business,” says Andrew Kloecker, Business Development Leader, Eriez-USA and user of the tool. “We’re a big job shop and do a lot of custom lift magnet systems. SmartSpec gives us flexibility. It saves us time and lets us get back to customers faster.” A Testament to Caldwell’s Dedication SmartSpec reflects Caldwell’s dedication to pushing the envelope in the crane and rigging industry. By providing distributors with tools that streamline operations, they’re not just manufacturing products—they’re building stronger partnerships. Whether you're configuring a beam for a heavy industrial project or a simple spreader bar for routine tasks, Caldwell’s SmartSpec proves that innovation in the lifting industry doesn’t always mean bigger—it means smarter. Experience the difference with the redesigned SmartSpec! Visit Caldwell’s website today to see how this powerful tool can revolutionize your lifting solutions. Andrew Kloecker, Business Development Leader, Eriez-USA An Eriez custom lift magnet system, utilizing a custom Caldwell beam.

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  Caldwell to Enhance Manufacturing Capabilities with New XME Laser Cutter

  December 18 2024

  Caldwell has announced the addition for an XME Laser Cutter to its Rockford, Illinois, facility. Sourced from Italian engineering firm Cutlite Penta, this state-of-the-art machine is set to enhance Caldwell’s manufacturing precision, efficiency, and automation.The XME Laser Cutter offers advanced capabilities for processing thicker plates of parent metal with outstanding accuracy. By eliminating the need for secondary operations such as grinding or additional machining steps, the XME streamlines production and delivers clean, precise cuts directly from the laser. This innovation also supports slot and tab fit-ups for thicker components, facilitating simultaneous designs that yield stronger products while reducing manufacturing time.According to Caldwell, the XME is a pivotal step forward in its automation strategy. By improving workflow efficiency and reducing turnaround times, the machine ensures faster, more accurate order fulfillment.“The addition of the XME Laser Cutter underscores our commitment to growth and innovation,” Caldwell Plant COO Tyson Philippi said. “This machine not only enhances our production capabilities but also reinforces our promise to deliver exceptional products and services to our customers faster than ever before.”As Caldwell continues to expand its operations, the integration of advanced tools like the XME Laser Cutter demonstrates their focus on leveraging technology to meet evolving customer needs.

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  The Smart Spec Revolution and Reboot

  December 09 2024

  Insights from the Caldwell’s Engineering Team At Caldwell Inc., innovation isn't just a buzzword; it’s the cornerstone of everything we do. One of the standout examples of this ethos is the online SmartSpec Product Configurator tool, designed to simplify the customization process for the company’s best-selling lifting devices. A game changer when first developed in 20XX, SmartSpec’s 2025 update is a game-changer in the industry, offering a new and improved online experience. As part of the engineering development team behind this innovation, we are thrilled to share the behind-the-scenes story of how SmartSpec came to life and the vision that drives it forward. The Problem: A Need for Precision and Speed In today's fast-paced and highly specialized work environments, custom equipment is often needed quickly. The modifications might not be huge … add a lifting spread or change a bail type … but they’re necessary. Every change to the standard design, however, requires recalculations and new drawings. And then, the new piece of lifting equipment must run through pricing for another manual process. In the best-case scenario, it took days. In the worst case, perhaps a week or more. All along the way there was room for miscommunication and errors. Early on, Caldwell recognized the need for a digital tool that could streamline the specification process, reducing human error and minimizing back-and-forth iterations. “The primary challenge we faced as engineers,” said Manufacturing Engineer Manager and SmartSpec Project Lead Mark Blomberg, “was how to provide users with an intuitive experience while retaining the depth of customization and precision that Caldwell products are known for.” The Vision: Simplicity Meets Sophistication “Our goal with SmartSpec was clear: create a tool that offers seamless integration between the customer’s needs and Caldwell's technical capabilities, all within an easy-to-navigate interface,” Blomberg continued. “We aimed to develop a solution that allows customers to configure their ideal product with minimal hassle, without sacrificing accuracy or performance.” Early versions of the tool handled complex engineering scenarios for a handful of products. But the 2024 goal was bigger: Make the tool faster, cleaner, and more user-friendly. Blomberg and his team were ready for the challenge. First, Nail the Backend Complexity One of the most challenging aspects of developing the configurator was building a system that could dynamically adjust based on real-time input. Caldwell's products often involve complex customizations like load capacities, dimensions, and material specifications. The SmartSpec tool needed to provide real-time feedback, ensuring that every configuration met rigorous engineering standards. Building this engine required meticulous programming and an extensive database capable of handling an ever-growing range of products and customization options. Then, Improve the User Experience Another major focus was creating a user interface that would cater to both technical and non-technical users. From an engineering perspective, this meant finding the perfect balance between simplicity and flexibility. The configurator needed to accommodate engineers looking for specific load ratings or compliance with industry standards, while also being accessible to customers without technical expertise. To achieve this, Caldwell worked closely with web developers and UI/UX designers to map out user journeys, creating a logical, step-by-step configuration process. The result is an interface that simplifies complex product specifications into intuitive selections and drop-down menus. Users can easily visualize how each choice impacts the final product, in real time. The Result: A Tool That Works for Everyone Today, the revamped SmartSpec tool stands as a reflection of Caldwell’s commitment to innovation and customer service. It reduces lead times, increases accuracy, and significantly improves the customer experience. Jeff Ferchen, Caldwell’s Business Development Director, captures the impact perfectly: “What used to take days now takes just minutes with the SmartSpec tool. It's a huge leap forward in terms of efficiency, and it's transformed how we interact with our customers.” Looking Ahead Today’s SmartSpec is just the beginning. New models are being added all the time, as adoption of the technology continues to grow. “We’re excited to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in product configuration,” Blomberg promised. MEET THE ENGINEERS Mark Blomberg, Mechanical Engineering Manager and Black Belt Education: Mechanical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Years at Caldwell: 14 Describe the SmartSpec Team: This engineering crew is phenomenal. I’m so proud of the work we have done ... and it’s been no small task. Imagine the hundreds of thousands of calculations and configurations that have to be programmed. It’s a game changer. Michael Stitt, Configurator Designer Education: Information Technology, University of Missouri Years at Caldwell: 7 years Describe what part of the SmartSpec project you like best: Being able to automate the modeling process. It's cool to see a program you create able to make an almost limitless number of different models. Anil Bradley, Configurator Engineer Education: Computer Science, Harvard University Years at Caldwell: 1 year Describe the why this SmartSpec update is so good: SmartSpec is fast. It’s accurate. It does all of the “heavy lifting” with the push of a button, so you get what you need faster. Vishal Parashar, Configurator Engineer Education: Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, University of Cincinnati Years at Caldwell: 6 Years Describe what you are most proud of regarding SmartSpec: We can reduce lead times for customers and help the whole Caldwell engineering team be more efficient ... it’s a win-win.

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  New Model 86 Double-Leg Coil Lifter Design Offers Better Performance

  November 19 2024

  Caldwell's redesigned Model 86 Double-Leg Coil Lifter delivers improved usability for your material handlers, reduces the chance for coil damage, and improves safety. You probably already know that double-leg coil lifters are designed to lift with the inner diameter of the coil horizontal and that you have a choice between manual and motorized units. The manual units are often used when space is at a premium because they are just smaller and more compact than a large motorized coil lifter. In addition, the manual units are a more affordable option when you just don't move coils often enough to justify the cost of a more robust, fully loaded motorized unit. Among the manual options, a C-hook or a double-leg lifter, the standout advantage of the double-leg units is that they allow you to reduce aisle space. If you think about installing a C-hook into a coil, you need significant space on one side to get that C-hook positioned for insertion into the horizontal coil, which often means something akin to the width of the coil. Compare that to the legs of the Model 86. You just need a foot or so on each side of the coil to manuever the legs into postion. Here's how the new Model 86 takes advantage of that space-saving benefit and combines it with other features to deliver a more efficient, safer, and optimized lifting solution. 1. Narrower, thicker hooks allow you to manuever in tighter spaces with no loss in capacity. 2. Notched beam with incremental pin adjustments lets you adjust to different coil widths. 3. Extra long pins with hand guards reduce pinh points, preventing user injuries when setting hook width. 4. Beam decals identify coil width settings for faster caluclation and hook setting. 5. New rounded corners on the hook's shoes won't "catch" on load when sliding over coil exterior, resulting in less coil damange and saving you money. 6. Two shackles with two coupling links let the hooks pivot and rotate more easily for easier hook positioning. 7. New plate bail shape better accommodates DIN style hooks, making mounting even more straightforward, while extending the life of the crane hook and lifter plate bail. 8. Built-in beam stands, or legs on either end of the beam, simplifies storage and beam engagement/disengagement when it's time to work. If you are ready to learn more about the new Model 86, give Caldwell's Customer Service team a call at 815.229.5667.

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  RUD In-Stock List

  August 28 2024

  The items on this list maintain an in-stock status so you can be sure that inventory is avaialable when you need it. Orders for in-stock items ship same-day if placed by 11 a.m. CT. For large orders, or known scheduled replenishment orders, please consult your assigned customer service representaive so we can be sure to respond to unusual demand as quickly as possible.

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  Why Choose RUD Lifting Points?

  August 27 2024

  Not all lifting points are created equal. When it comes to lifting operations, safety, reliability, and efficiency are non-negotiable. Whether you’re in construction, manufacturing, or any industry where heavy lifting is part of the daily routine, choosing the right lifting equipment is crucial – critical to worker safety and load protection. Among the many options available, RUD lifting points stand out as a top choice for professionals worldwide. But what makes them so much better? Let's explore the reasons why people choose RUD lifting points over the competition. 1. Uncompromising Quality and Safety Standards Safety is paramount in any lifting operation, and RUD lifting points are synonymous with safety. Known for their high-quality, German engineering and manufacturing processes, RUD ensures that each lifting point meets or exceeds stringent international safety standards. This focus on safety and reliability gives professionals peace of mind, knowing that they’re using equipment designed to minimize risks and protect both people and property. 2. Innovative Design and Engineering RUD’s commitment to innovation is evident in the advanced design and engineering of their lifting points. They continuously invest in research and development to bring cutting-edge solutions to the market. For example, the RUD ACP is the world's very "first intelligent lifting point." The unique RUD spring mechanism and no-stop bracket elimintes the possibility of dangerous transverse loads. Simply eliminates it. RUD's alliances with research institutes, universities, suppliers and customers, combined with the extraordinary amount of rigorous, in-house testing performed, ensures a continued evolution in quality and performance. 3. Versatility Across Applications No two lifting jobs are the same, which is why versatility in lifting equipment is crucial. RUD offers a wide range of lifting points designed to meet diverse needs. But versatility does not mean that one-size-fits-all. Sometimes it means you need an anchor point designed specifically for fall protection. Or, perhaps, you need a custom-length bolt to fit for a particular through-hole. RUD can accommodate. This extensive product range of bolt-on points and weldable options allows businesses to find exactly what they need for specific applications, ensuring that they can handle even the most challenging lifting tasks with confidence. 4. Durability and Long Service Life Durability is another key factor that sets RUD lifting points apart from the competition. Made from high-quality materials and crafted with precision, these lifting points are built to last. They are highly resistant to wear, corrosion, and fatigue, which means they can withstand the rigors of heavy use in harsh environments. The result? A longer service life and reduced need for frequent replacements, leading to cost savings in the long run. 5. Global Reputation and Certification … with American Availability RUD’s reputation extends far beyond their home base in Germany—they’re recognized and trusted globally. This global reputation for excellence is one of the key reasons why so many professionals choose RUD over other brands. And because such a wide range of lifting points are in stock and ready to ship at Caldwell’s Rockford, IL, distribution center, rigging distributors can count on the ability to get what they need without delay. 6. Exceptional Customer Support and Service In addition to offering top-tier products, Caldwell provides outstanding customer support for RUD in the US and Canada. Whether you need technical advice or after-sales service, Caldwell’s team is there to assist. This level of support is invaluable, particularly in industries where proper installation and ongoing maintenance are critical to both safety and performance. 7. Customized Solutions for Unique Needs Sometimes, off-the-shelf products just don’t fit the bill. Caldwell and RUD understand this and offer customization options to meet unique lifting requirements. If you need a custom bolt length, for example, Caldwell can cut a bolt to your specifications and have it out the door to your customer the same day, if ordered by 11 a.m. And, if you’re dealing with complex loads, unusual angles, or specific environmental conditions, RUD can provide tailored solutions that perfectly match your needs. This flexibility ensures that you’re always equipped with the right tools for the job, no matter how specialized your lifting operation may be. Really, the Question is “Why Not RUD?” When it comes to lifting points, RUD is a name that stands out in the industry for all the right reasons. Their commitment to quality, safety, and innovation, combined with their partnership with industry-leading Caldwell, a versatile product range and strong customer support, makes them a preferred choice for professionals around the globe. Whether you're looking for durability, reliability, or customized solutions, RUD lifting points offer the performance and peace of mind that you need to get the job done right. For more information about how RUD lifting points can benefit your specific lifting applications, feel free to contact Caldwell at 815.229.5667 or contact@caldwellinc.com.

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  Caldwell Names Mueller Regional Sales Manager

  The Caldwell Group Inc. has hired Steve Mueller as regional sales manager. It is the second time the below-the-hook and material handling equipment manufacturer has hired to the role this year, having recruited Teddy Berman as its first ever hire as a direct employee in a territory in January. Mueller brings a wealth of experience to the position, including over two decades at Fastenal, a fasteners and industrial supplies distributor. He will be responsible for offering the full range of Caldwell products, in addition to Renfroe lifting clamps and RUD lifting points, to the Upper Midwest area, covering North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Northern Illinois. Mueller said: “Having spent 22 years [at Fastenal], I have a deep-rooted enjoyment of technical sales and supporting distribution, developed in a similar role that covered the same geography. The synergies between old and new roles are great. However, my focus is now firmly switched to in-the-field Caldwell representation. I will be supporting our distributors with end-user visits and participation in customer events, while delivering product expertise across our broad range of equipment.” Darrin Noe, director of sales and marketing, said: “We were looking for someone to reinforce our connectivity with our distributors in the Upper Midwest and Steve is the perfect guy to re-hoist the Caldwell flag in the region. He has outstanding personality traits and combines them with a solid work ethic. Steve is personable, well-rounded, grounded, and easy to talk to. Throw in his extensive industrial knowledge and it’s a great recipe for success.” Mueller’s work will dovetail with Berman’s efforts in the Carolinas, Georgia, and Tennessee regions, where he also represents the full brand trifecta. As widely reported, Caldwell continues to hire to sales-focused positions, making sure distributors and end users find it easier to do business with the company than any other lifting manufacturer. Assembling the right team is a critical part of that mission, Noe emphasized. Steve Mueller can be contacted at smueller@caldwellinc.com.

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  How to create custom lifting equipment

  July 18 2024

  What happens when you realize you need a custom lifting solution to make a project work right? If you've spent any time as a rigging distributor, crane operator, contractor, plant manager or project engineer, you know that the need for specialized, customized lifting or transport equipment is quite common. Safe lifting is a non-negotiable, and devices that perform the work are critically important. Even with the thousands of standard options at a BTH lifting device manufacturer like Caldwell, a specific project or process often calls for something that needs a specific lifting solution. Sometimes you simply need a minor modification to an existing product, like adding an additional set of holes to a lifting beam for a specific spread. While other times you may need to start with a rough drawing on the back of a napkin and rely on the Caldwell engineering crew to dive in and create something that's never existed before, like a transport carriage for a lunar lander. Either is OK, because no matter what the complexity level, all custom projects follow a similar process: Step 1: Complete Caldwell's Application Evaluation to give us some basic information to start with and email it to us. Step 2: Begin the conversation with our expert team. With your information in hand, one of our Technical Service Reps will give you a call to discuss everything about your processes, your plant, and your priorities. Worried that you haven't done this before? Don't be. The Caldwell team has created thousands upon thousands of custom lifting devices for some of the most demanding clients in the country. Step 3: Let the engineers get to work. Following ASME guidelines and armed with decades of industry experience, our mechanical and electrical engineers create the drawings exactly to your custom specs. Step 4: Review and sign off on a final design. After a collaborative process, the approval is yours. Step 5: Sit back while Caldwell starts the build. This is where the fun starts! Caldwell’s skilled fabricators, welders, electricians, and assemblers turn those drawings into reality. Step 6: Trust the testing process. Now is the time we make sure it all works like it’s supposed to, meeting ASME standards and your expectations. Step 7: Take delivery and put that custom equipment to work. Ready to get started? We can't wait to talk to you. contact@caldwellinc.com 815.229.5667

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  Caldwell Launches 2024 Renfroe Buyer’s Guide

  June 01 2024

  Renfroe, part of The Caldwell Group Inc., has launched a 2024 Buyer’s Guide, featuring lifting clamps for plates and sheets, pipe, curved plate, angle iron and beams and drums. By choosing a Renfroe by Caldwell lifting clamp, customers are investing in 80 years of experience, expertise and industry knowledge that makes a huge difference to their workload, allowing them to carry out their jobs easier and making their bottom line stronger. J.C. Renfroe was founded by shipyard worker Joseph Renfroe and his four sons in Jacksonville, FL, in 1940, making lifting clamps based on an innovation to improve safety. Notable achievements include using Renfroe clamps to move over 900 million tons of steel when building St. Louis Arch in 1963 and helping to pick the wreckage of the Space Shuttle Challenger off of the ocean floor in 1986. Caldwell acquired J.C. Renfroe in 2014, moving its operations to Rockford, IL, where the world-renowned clamps continue to be produced today. The addition of the lifting clamp category allows Caldwell to provide a total lifting solution to the rigging industry. Caldwell continues to serve rigging shops, crane dealers, construction contractors, transportation suppliers and material handling professionals who support crane operators worldwide. “Customers always ask for catalogs because while some might consider it ‘old school’, they are easy to transport in their vehicles and take to jobsites. Users never need a cell signal to access the Buyer’s Guide and it’s easier to compare a couple of different models just by turning the pages. It’s also easier to get a feel for the range of sizes available for each clamp,” said Doug Stitt, president, Caldwell. Featured in the Buyer’s Guide are almost 70 of the most popular sizes and styles of Renfroe clamps, in stock every day, as well as a full list of rebuild kits. In-stock models are easily identified with a clearly marked orange label. When you inspect and maintain a Renfroe clamp in accordance with the provided operator’s manual, Renfroe will also repair or replace a faulty clamp at no expense to the purchaser. The Renfroe 2024 Buyer’s Guide is now available online as a PDF download or request a paper copy here: https://www.caldwellinc.com/caldwell-catalog-library

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  Caldwell, Vita Inclinata reach milestones

  Rockford, Illinois-based The Caldwell Group Inc. helped Vita Inclinata Technologies Inc. celebrate deployment of its 100th product unit. Caldwell manufactures the spreader beam component of the propulsion (fan) driven suspended load system (Vita Load Navigator) for its Broomfield, Colorado partner. The remote-controlled product allows crane operation crews to precisely (to one degree) control and orient loads without relying extensively on guylines or being in the critical path of the load. The system dynamically adjusts to load sizes, crane movement, and wind conditions, allowing high-precision lifts even in the most challenging environments. The load navigator is available in five versions in 20t (7 ft. and 11 ft.) and 40t (7 ft, 11 ft., and 15 ft.) capacities. In each instance, the centerpiece is Caldwell’s Dura-Mod modular spreader beam, a versatile, lightweight alternative to fixed and multiple-point below-the-hook solutions. Delivery of the 100th system chimes with Caldwell’s ongoing 70th anniversary celebrations; the company has grown into one of the largest manufacturers of below-the-hook lifting devices in North America. Founded in 1954 by inventor and tinkerer Leslie Caldwell, who designed, fabricated, and sold special lifting slings, it has expanded the product line and, today, is a reputable manufacturer and distributor of custom lifting solutions, worldwide. During the early days of Vita Inclinata, co-founder and chief technology officer, Derek Sikora, recognized Caldwell’s solution-oriented mindset, which convinced him that a synergy was possible. The efficient and safe lifting of loads with cranes has always been a challenge for the industry, which Vita and Caldwell are now jointly solving. “Several years ago, Derek reached out and gave us the background story about Vita and we were captivated. This is a cool product, there’s a need for it, and it’s fun to work on it. It’s been great to be a part of this journey. We started collaborating on conceptual designs and the rest is history,” said Darrin Noe, director of sales at Caldwell. Dan Mongan, senior sales engineer at Caldwell, added: “The beams are perfect for integration into such an innovative solution. Each spreader system consists of a pair of end units and drop links, and two upper and lower shackles to make the shortest possible configuration. From there it is a simple case of combining intermediate spreader sections to achieve the required span.” The load navigator system offers direct user-controlled positioning using a wireless control pendant and features a position hold function, that keeps the load stable in a pre-set orientation, despite wind or slewing impacts on the load. Vita Inclinata reports up to a 20-50% increase in productivity, depending upon load parameters. During the development phase of the product, Preston FitzRandolph, aerospace engineer II at Vita, had the opportunity to go on an East Coast demo tour with Sikora, where he experienced firsthand how the operators were trying to use the system and its limitations. At that time, there were strict operating requirements that needed to be followed, and deviation would lead to lackluster performance. It became evident that the software control algorithm needed to be adaptable to a wide range of lifting team preferences, load sizes, rigging options, system configurations, and environmental conditions. FitzRandolph said: “I remember when Derek gave me the requirements for the agnostic controller. The main prerequisite was that the system needed to perform regardless of the load dimension, wind conditions, and rigging. However, we couldn't test it at the time because we didn't have a spider crane. So, we spent a lot of time at crane yards, trying out different iterations of the pendant until we got it right.” The collaboration between these two organizations has resulted in a highly efficient lifting technology that guarantees the safety and precision of lifting operations, and its success can be attributed to the complementing expertise and ingenious spirit of Caldwell and Vita. Caption: The Vita Load Navigator is a propulsion driven suspended load system.

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  Caldwell Celebrates 70 Years

  March 13 2024

  Rockford, Illinois-based The Caldwell Group Inc. is celebrating 70 years. The below-the-hook and material handling equipment manufacturer will mark the occasion with a series of events, culminating in a late-summer gala with customers, partners, suppliers, and staff. Founded by Leslie Caldwell in 1954, as a maker of lifting slings, the firm has expanded and moved several times over the decades, now occupying two large manufacturing and warehouse facilities. The company has been shaped by numerous acquisitions and collaborations, including the purchase of the J.C. Renfroe lifting clamp business and a strategic partnership with RUD to bring lifting points and other products to the U.S. and Canada. Today, Caldwell employs over 120 people. Doug Stitt, president and CEO, said: “Not only have we existed for 70 years, but we have evolved and developed what we provide to the marketplace. “We’ve contributed to how people lift and move things, and how they can do it more safely. We’ve been able to provide a great place to work and created a community, so it’s really a celebration of all our people, suppliers, and customers that have supported and contributed to success and longevity.” He added: “Business becomes tougher and tougher every year, it seems, so taking some time to appreciate our accomplishments is worthwhile. Nothing can be taken for granted in today’s marketplace. It’s important to celebrate significant milestones because it pays respect to all those who helped build the company and those that are currently working towards the next 70 years. “It’s crazy to think we started out with sewing machines making slings and now we are one of the leading fabricators of welded, steel lifting products.” Recent highlights include partnering with Majestic Steel USA to deliver coil grabs, sheet lifters, and hooks for a facility in Arkansas; expanding the series of RUD ACP-Turnado lifting points by adding Max and Supermax versions; and designing a 2,500-lb. capacity transport cradle, to facilitate final assembly of Intuitive Machines’ lunar lander, Nova-C. The wider portfolio includes an assortment of below-the-hook lifters, for handling beams, coils, and sheet; mill-duty lifters; Posi-Turner load rotation equipment; vacuum lifters; construction lifters; fork truck attachments; jib and gantry cranes; Rig-Release remote releasing hooks, Dura-Lite composite lifting products; Renfroe lifting clamps; and RUD lifting points. Stitt added: “Yes, the products we offer are different now, but we still focus on quality; we still focus on helping our customers solve problems, and we are still integral in keeping safe lifting at the forefront. We’ll continue to introduce new products and services for our customers, but I expect the next 70 years to focus on building quality products and providing our customers with the best overall experience possible—that’s what matters.”

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Recent Articles

Caldwell Lifting Attachment Aids U.S. Navy Drone Testing

Get Custom Equipment Quotes Faster with Improved SmartSpec Tool

Caldwell to Enhance Manufacturing Capabilities with New XME Laser Cutter

The Smart Spec Revolution and Reboot

New Model 86 Double-Leg Coil Lifter Design Offers Better Performance