How to Effectively Communicate During the Custom Manufacturing Process

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There are different categories of products in the manufacturing industry. One is stock-made products, and the other is custom-manufacturing products. Yet to complete a manufacturing project, there is one thing of critical importance.

It’s more than just understanding a company’s project specifications and needs. You must effectively communicate during the manufacturing process.

Proper communication ensures the completion of your custom manufacturing projects. Therefore, it is essential to communicate from the beginning to avoid misunderstandings.

Here’s what you need to know about effective internal communication during the custom design process.

Create Design Goals

The first step in effective communication is to articulate your design goals clearly. What are you trying to achieve with this project? Are your performance requirements defined?

What are the end-use conditions of the finished product? Once you understand your design goals, you can communicate them to the Kor-Pak team. We will use this information to develop a proposal that meets your needs.

Be Clear and Concise

In custom manufacturing, it is easy to get lost in translation, especially when multiple people are involved in a project. This can include having many different specifications or materials for a project.

It’s essential to keep your communication as clear and concise as possible. This way, everyone involved knows precisly what they need to do. You want to provide as much detail as possible so there is no room for misinterpretation.

Avoiding misunderstandings during manufacturing can reduce mistakes, remove delays, and save money.

Provide Drawings and Sketches

In addition to verbal explanations, providing drawings or sketches of your desired outcome can help communicate your vision. For starters, it lets the production team understand your idea for your product.

It also allows them to see how you want your product to look, feel, and function. Drawings and sketches can give you an accurate quote for your custom manufacturing project.

An experienced team has many years of reading engineering drawings. The goal is to use your drawings and sketches to understand your requirements. The reason is that it will help everyone involved to communicate more effectively.

Set Realistic Budget Expectations

When starting a custom manufacturing project, you must be upfront about your budget. You also want to outline your project expectations. Finally, you want to understand how much the work will cost.

When you offer this information up front, you remove any surprises, and you’re more likely to be satisfied with the finished product.

You should also be clear about any changes or modifications you want to be made to the original design. This helps prevent any confusion later on during the manufacturing process.

Custom Manufacturing Projects Need Effective Communication

Ensure custom manufacturing projects are completed successfully by communicating effectively. Following the tips above, you can ensure that you properly convey your design goals.

At Kor-Pak, we pride ourselves on being a team that is easy to work with. We understand that communication is critical in the custom manufacturing process.

Let our team help you complete your manufacturing project the way you envisioned. Then, reach out to our team today to get started!

4 Good Reasons to Use OEM Parts and Components

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Did you know that the global automotive OEM market is worth over $33.75 billion?

You may have found yourself in a position of needing a new part for a piece of equipment or a vehicle. 

So do you go with aftermarket or OEM parts?

This guide will walk you through four good reasons to choose OEM over aftermarket.

What Are OEM Parts?

OEM parts stand for original equipment manufacturer parts. This means that these parts are identical to the parts in your vehicle from the initial build.

That also means that if you have OEM parts and components, you can expect your vehicle or equipment to run in the same way – both in terms of quality and performance. However, you can expect OEM parts to be slightly more expensive than choosing to go with aftermarket parts. 

With that said, there are several advantages to using  OEM parts for various industries.

Why Consider OEM Components?

You can sometimes get the job done with aftermarket parts. Although OEM parts tend to be more expensive and more difficult to find at times, there are many advantages to choosing OEM parts. Sometimes, OEM is the ideal choice over aftermarket.

Here’s why.

1. Better Warranty 

A warranty on your industrial machine ensures you are spending only what you have to. 

If you choose non-OEM parts and something happens to that part of your machine, you may no longer be under the manufacturer’s specifications. Unfortunately, this means you will be spending money out of pocket to fix the issue rather than staying under warranty.

2. Easy to Replace

Every piece of equipment is manufactured in a specific way. When you go to replace that part of the equipment, it is much easier to replace an OEM part. Most of the time, alternative parts have to be maneuvered differently while also possibly manipulating parts of the vehicle or equipment as well.

This can cost more for labor as well as potentially cause other damage.

3. Quality of Parts

When you stick with OEM, the quality of the parts is excellent. However, while you can find other parts, you cannot guarantee that they will work or fit correctly.

For instance, with an OEM part, everything will line up properly. However, an aftermarket part may not be designed as specifically, so the holes for bolts or wires may not line up identically.

4. Safety 

While the ease of installation and warranty are great reasons to stick with OEM parts, the safety of yourself and the vehicle or equipment is also up there.

Changing to an aftermarket part may involve manipulating other parts and items. This can pose a safety risk.

OEM Parts

Contact us at Kor-Pak to get the OEM parts you need! Whether you need parts as an engineer, a mechanic, or for another reason, we have your back!

3 Things You Should Know About a Crane Braking System

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The number of cranes in North America is increasing by almost 5% every two quarters. These have specific demands in how a manufacturer constructs them, from the building method to the braking system. So, what do you need when it comes to the brakes?

Below, we expand on this question and more. By the end of the article, you should know more about crane braking systems and what can influence them. You will also learn about the mandates on their construction from different oversight bodies.

1. OSHA has specific demands

Regarding safety, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has something to say. For example, their regulations demand that the overhead crane brakes you use be large enough to stop a moving load in a specific time.

More specifically, the regulations state that any brakes must be able to stop the crane trolley within a specific distance. That distance in feet is equal to 10% of the speed in feet per minute when the trolley is at a full load and its top speed.

As such, for example, if your load is moving at 5 feet per second, it needs to stop within 0.5 feet. The crane controls also need to do this when the crane is moving at its greatest possible speed when it is at its maximum listed load.

2. ASME Has Requirements

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) also has its demands. They state an industrial braking system must exist, or the crane must have enough friction to stop fast enough. The exact rule they use is that in the case of stopping thrust, the crane trolley must stop within 10% of its speed, much like OSHA requirements.

3. Many Factors May Influence Braking Speed

Many things affect crane braking systems and speed them up or slow them down. When choosing your trolley brakes and the person to operate them, you should bear these in mind. 

These include:

  • A lack of proper methods for working out the speed and position of the crane trolley
  • How distracted the crane operator is
  • A lack of working knowledge of crane operating techniques
  • The state of repair of the brake pads and whether they need replacing
  • The state the crane operators are in at the time of working
  • A lack of traction on the crane trolley due to environmental factors
  • The visibility of the area around the crane trolley and if the operator can see it clearly
  • The make and model of crane brake you intend to use

Make sure you understand how each could impact your ability to know how fast a crane can brake.

Getting a New Crane Braking System

You can come to us to ask if you need more information on industrial braking systems.

Our specialists are ready to discuss your needs with you and find you the perfect crane braking system. So, give us a call today and start the conversation.

3 Hydraulic Clamp Manufacturers and Their Benefits

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Do you know what device is essential to the pressing process or press forming in manufacturing? The answer is a clamp system component. 

With clamps, you can join metal together. Hydraulic clamp manufacturers lead the industry in all clamp types.

Using suitable hydraulic clamps for your project can save time and effort. Here are three of the best hydraulic clamp manufacturers and how they can help you.

Here we’ll discuss why each manufacturer is worth considering and what makes them unique.

Stromag

  • German-based Stromag is a leading manufacturer of industrial brakes and clutches. Founded in 1932, they have years of experience crafting quality clamping system components.
  • Hydraulic clamps are among the company’s extensive product lines, including heavy-duty clamps.
  • The high quality and durability of Stromag’s hydraulic clamps make them an excellent choice for demanding systems and applications.
  • Stromag currently holds over 400 patents. In addition, they continuously innovate their product line to deliver what their customers need.

Sumitomo

When covering a list of the top hydraulic clamp manufacturers, you must include Sumitomo. The Japanese manufacturer is known for being one of the world’s largest producers of hydraulic components. While Sumitomo is a much younger company than a manufacturer like Stromag, it has prioritized innovation.

The company’s product line features a variety of hydraulic clamps, including those designed for use in high-pressure applications. Sumitomo’s hydraulic clamps are known for their precision and accuracy.

These clamps are often used in special vehicles and high-speed Jet fuel boats. This fact alone makes them a good choice for critical applications.

Marland

One last manufacturer to mention when it comes to being the best is the US-based Marland Clutch. It is a leading manufacturer of engineered elastomeric products. Since the company has been around since the 1930s, it has had years to perfect its product design.

The company’s product line includes a wide variety of hydraulic clamps. In addition, Marland is certified to provide quality hydraulic swing clamps and hydraulic bridge clamps.

They also have products designed for use in medium-duty applications. Marland’s hydraulic clamps are known for their flexibility and ease of use. They can be a great choice if your business requires less demanding applications.

With Marland Clutch products, your business can access backstops and hydraulic clamps. These products can help improve production time and prevent injuries. Marland Clutch clamps also work well in protecting expensive equipment.

Do You Need High-Quality Hydraulic Clamps?

When choosing a hydraulic clamp manufacturer, there are many factors to take into account. First, consider the type of application you have. Then consider the demand level and budget.

You can narrow your options and find the best hydraulic clamps by considering some leading manufacturers. If you are looking to source reliable hydraulic clamps, contact us today and let us help.

What Are the Different Types of Port Cranes?

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The Port of Los Angeles handles around 200 million metric tons of cargo annually. More than 80 port cranes operate nearly continuously to offload freight from container ships. 

The port crane is the central and most important piece of equipment at any port of entry. But have you ever wondered what the different types of port cranes are? Read on to learn about shore cranes and other types of port cranes.

Gantry Crane

A gantry crane is a type of industrial crane frequently found along ports of entry. This crane is named for its most distinguishable part: the gantry. This is the overhead structure that holds the crane.

The gantry crane is sometimes called a portal crane because the frame looks like a portal. These cranes work in what is known as the straight-line route. This means machinery is used directly underneath the crane itself.  

There are two types of gantry cranes: high and low profile. They function the same way, although they appear different.

The low-profile crane typically has a fixed boom. The design is ideal for situations where the seaport is also near an airport. The lower profile makes flying overhead safer. 

A high-profile crane has a hinged boom that is also tall. This configuration is ideal for helping ships navigate ports when leaving the dock. 

Deck Crane

Deck cranes are offshore cranes that are typically mounted on the decks of ships. Their compact structure allows them to take up very little space when raising, loading, or unloading cargo. 

With little or no nearby infrastructure, deck cranes can easily work in small ports.

Overhead Cranes

An overhead crane is often used in factories for lifting heavy loads. It is also known as a suspended crane.

In addition to lifting enormous amounts of weight, overhead cranes are simple in design, consisting of hoists placed on trolleys that can traverse one or two beams. The crane operator is responsible for controlling this powerful machine. Construction sites and ports both use overhead cranes. 

Learn More Useful Port Crane Tips

The port crane is the central equipment for any port of entry. Without port cranes, freight could never leave the ships, and ports could not function. Due to the unique needs of ports worldwide, port operators rely on a wide range of port cranes to complete their essential logistical work.

Keeping crane operators fitted with the necessary equipment is part of our mission at Kor-Pak. To learn about our diverse portfolio of products, contact our team today.

4 Benefits of a Custom-Built Crane Transmission

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Two of the most common reasons for crane-related workplace accidents are boom or cable failure and the worker getting struck by the crane load. Such accidents are often catastrophic. 

A custom crane transmission can help you prevent such accidents from happening. It can also benefit your company in other ways. Read on to learn more. 

1. Tailor the Crane to Your Specific Needs 

Most crane transmission brands only offer a few options for complete, pre-built transmissions. As a result, businesses may find that the resulting products only meet some of their operational needs. The best they can do is weigh the pros and cons and choose which parts meet as many of their needs as possible. 

The problem is that this can lower production rates because the workers have to work within the limits of the crane. If they try to push these limits to meet production demands (adding too much weight, etc.), their safety will be at risk. Also, a misused crane will likely break more often and need more maintenance. 

Custom cranes are the best way to ensure your crane meets production demands and is safe. This way, your crane will be able to meet more of your business’s needs. 

2. Replace an Outdated Crane Transmission 

In most cases, replacing parts of an old crane is much cheaper than buying a new one. However, you may need help finding parts that fit your old crane. 

You’re not guaranteed to find the right parts to upgrade your old crane. Still, you have a better chance of doing so by building a crane transmission piece rather than buying a complete set of parts at once. 

3. Take Advantage of Radio-Control Technologies 

Newer crane systems have technologies that can improve your production in several ways. Getting a new custom-built transmission and other parts can help you take advantage of these features.

One example of these technologies includes radio remote control systems. They can enhance your crane’s performance by improving safety and providing versatile action options. 

4. Take Advantage of Life-Extending Mechanics 

Another way new crane systems can improve your production is by extending your machines’ lifespans. Recent innovations in technology can improve how long and well your crane operates. 

Keep Your Heavy Industry Machines Efficient With Our Part Selections 

You’re not limited to an inefficient or unsuitable crane transmission. There are plenty of ways to get the exact parts your business needs. In addition, this should increase the production level of your facility. 

Consider our vast selection of parts and part options if you want to improve your current cranes and other heavy industry machinery. We can source a wide variety of existing parts, refurbish them, and even custom fabricate them if necessary. Contact us now to request a quote.

The Importance of Regular Crane Inspections

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You rely on your cranes daily to get your jobs done and generate revenue. Research shows that unplanned equipment downtime costs an average of $260,000 an hour.

Inspecting your crane can help you spot problems early on. Here’s a rundown of why regular care inspections are so necessary.

Longer Equipment Life

A regular crane inspection can save you on crane-related costs in the long run. That’s because regular maintenance can help ensure that your crane remains pristine in the years ahead.

When you have your crane inspected and serviced as needed, this equipment will be more reliable when you need it the most. It will also last longer.

A fully operational crane will help you avoid the costly downtime that stems from parts failing and equipment breakdowns. After all, it takes longer to fix a broken crane than to get it inspected yearly.

And when you catch problems early in an inspection, you prevent more significant problems from cropping up later.

Employee Safety

Yet another reason to inspect your cranes regularly is that it helps keep your staff safe.

With a consistently inspected crane, the users of your crane are less likely to suffer job injuries due to malfunctioning equipment. Likewise, you prevent employees working around your cranes from being injured due to equipment failure.

The safer your employees are, the happier they will be, and the more likely they will stay with your company. In addition, fewer work-related injuries translate to lower costs for you.

OSHA Compliance

Finally, conducting regular crane inspections is a requirement of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, for various industries, including agriculture and petroleum.

If you neglect crane inspections, you will not comply with OSHA. Unfortunately, this may lead to a higher number of workplace accidents. In addition, it may lead to hefty fines that further chip away at your bottom line.

When OSHA fines you, this can also damage your reputation among your business partners and clients. And if you continue to operate without compliance with OSHA, they may eventually shut down your business.

A yearly inspection is an easy way to keep your cranes operating according to code and stay in business.

How We Can Help with Crane Inspections

With regular crane inspections, you can extend the life of your heavy equipment. In addition, you can have the peace of mind of knowing that your workers will be safer. And you can avoid OSHA fines as a result.

Fortunately, at Kor-Pak Corporation, we take pride in offering parts and services for cranes and other industrial equipment, like clutches and brakes. Get in touch with us to learn more about how we can keep your cranes running smoothly from one job to the next and for years to come.

5 Things You Should Know About Industrial Brakes

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Regular brakes and industrial brakes differ from one another. Here are a few things to know about industrial brakes and their maintenance.

1. There Are Different Types of Brakes

It is essential to have industrial brakes to manage heavy loads. Here are a few examples.

Spring Applied Brakes

Spring-applied brakes are meant to decelerate moving loads and keep other heavy loads still in case the release mechanism stops working. 

These brakes are especially useful for industrial machines and any type of industrial machine that needs an emergency stop.

Fail Safe Brakes

If there is an issue with power loss or something with the drive that goes out, the fail-safe brakes will help. This is especially useful for downhill systems or even conveyor belt systems. 

Hydraulic Release Brakes

This is another type of spring-applied brake that uses hydraulic power. This is useful for holding, stage productions, and emergency stops for industrial vehicles. 

2. How They Work

Even though there are several different types of industrial brakes on the market, most use signed disc designs that use a rotating disc. This disc completes movement that creates friction to stop a vehicle.

These brakes are highly reliable in high-stress situations and can last many hours. First, however, it is vital to ensure they are adequately maintained. 

3. Always Look to Improve Braking Performance

It is essential to pay attention to brake performance when you have industrial brakes. Here are some things to look out for:

  • Increase the disc radius to ensure there is more brake torque and the ability for the brakes to apply the proper pressure
  • Increase the caliper piston area or the size of the pistons to increase pressure on the brakes
  • Increase the line pressure with assisted vacuum parts on the brake or by pushing harder on the brakes
  • Increase the friction between the brake pads and rotors on all wheels 

4. Reduce Brake Fade

You should also reduce brake fade to keep your industrial brakes safe. A few ways to do this are:

  • Adding larger rotors to the vehicle
  • Add vented rotors or a way of venting for your rotors
  • Add slotted and drilled rotors
  • Be sure to look at your brake pad selection properly 

5. Always Choose the Right Company to Help You

To be sure that you are choosing the right company, you want to ensure you are looking for the following. This should always be a part of what you look for in an industrial brake company:

  • Customer service
  • High-quality components
  • Industry experience 

Industrial Braking

Now that you know what to look for with industrial brakes, you can start your search by knowing how to choose the right ones.

If you would like to explore more about industrial brakes more, you can request a quote from us at Kor Pak Corporation! We are happy to help you with all of your braking needs.

7 Things You Should Know About Crane Wheel Replacements

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Easily one of the most recognizable pieces of construction equipment is the crane. However, maintaining these complex machines takes careful attention and an eye toward crane wheel replacement. Keep these seven important topics in mind to keep your construction cranes in optimal shape.

1. Worn Crane Wheels Are a Safety Issue

OSHA sets guidelines for construction companies. These include requirements that all equipment be inspected and well-maintained. If your company is working on lowering its liability, ensure you designate timely construction crane wheel replacements as a top priority. 

2. Worn Crane Wheels Can Delay Construction Timelines

A blown or misaligned crane wheel can bring construction projects to a grinding halt. Since construction cranes are a vital part of any project, these delays could mean a timeline setback of days, if not weeks. 

3. Busted or Damaged Wheels Could Cause Failed Safety Inspections

Whether caused by a malfunctioning industrial brake system or general wear and tear, a damaged crane tire can cause your company to fail a safety inspection. A failed inspection could mean both fines and delays. 

4. Tire Problems Can Cause Distinct Sounds

We are all familiar with the sounds of worn brake pads. Misaligned or badly worn crane tires also make distinct sounds. Pay attention to those telltale sounds. An early diagnosis of the problem could mean a cheap and quick fix. 

5. Crane Wheels Are Not Interchangeable

When it does come time to replace your crane wheels, you should remember to pay close attention to the manufacturer’s specs. That will ensure that the wheels you purchase can withstand the conditions and loads they will experience daily. 

6. Prevent Premature Wear

Crane wheels wear out faster on older rail systems. A misaligned runway can also cause premature wear. You can prevent premature wear by ensuring your crane is regularly tested and inspected. 

You should address early signs of wear before the problems compound. Finally, ensure wheels were made for the specific rail they run on.

7. Routine Inspections Can Prevent Premature Tire Wear

Don’t wait for outside inspectors to tell you that your crane wheel requires replacement. Instead, make maintaining and inspecting your equipment a weekly routine. Better yet, have a daily checklist for essential things like checking the condition of your tires.

Learn More Tips About Crane Wheel Replacement

Crane wheel replacement is an unavoidable expense, but following the tips in this article can prevent premature wear. When it does come time to replace your crane’s tires, work with reputable Kor-Pak products.

Our OEM and aftermarket parts are ideal for passenger and freight cars. We offer a diverse portfolio of products. Let Kor-Pak help you strategically source parts for your rail company. Contact our team today.

What Is Fluid Coupling and How Does It Work?

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The principles of fluid dynamics are present in nearly all modern inventions. From modern toilets to rocket propulsion, it’s hard to find any revolutionary technology that doesn’t use it. Fluid dynamics is one of the most important products in engineering.

Like most engineering concepts, the fluid coupling can be a bit of a puzzle. Luckily, we’re here to make things simple. Read on for a simple and intuitive way to understand fluid coupling.

What Is Fluid Coupling?

Fluid coupling, also called hydraulic coupling, is a hydrodynamic device that uses transmission fluid to transfer mechanical power. 

German scientist Dr. Hermann Fottinger invented fluid couplings. His invention was patented posthumously in 1950 and has been used for various industrial applications since then. 

How Does It Work?

The principles of fluid coupling are based on hydrokinetics and fluid dynamics. This makes it distinctly different from hydrostatic systems like hydraulic pumps. 

A fluid coupling consists of a pair of bladed wheels that face each other but make no physical contact. One wheel, called the impeller, gets connected to a power source. The other, called the turbine, receives power from the impeller that transfers directly to the transmission.

The impeller, also known as the input, spins faster than the turbine, which is the output. Fluid flowing from the input causes the output to spin and transfers energy throughout the system. Both wheels are housed in an oil-filled casing that keeps them in place.

Fluid Coupling Applications

Fluid couplings get used in several different industries. However, its most important contribution is to the automotive industry. Let’s take a look at how.

Automatic Transmissions

Before the invention of fluid coupling, all cars had a manual transmission. Manual transmission requires the driver to operate a clutch, which is the link between the engine and the transmission. Without its clutch, a manual transmission car would stall whenever it stops.

The invention of fluid coupling removed the need for a clutch. It became the source of torque conversion needed to make cars shift gears automatically. Every automatic car on the road today has been partly built using fluid coupling.

Semi-Automatic Transmissions

The use of fluid coupling extends beyond just motor vehicles. Fluid couplings also have an important benefit in rail transportation.

In Britain, diesel locomotives have a power transmission system that is semi-automatic. This power transmission employs fluid couplings to make the locomotives shift gears automatically while in motion.

Additional Resources

Despite being less than 100 years old, fluid couplings have revolutionized how automobiles and locomotives run. The automotive industry relies on its principles and wouldn’t be the same without them. 

Click here for more information about fluid couplings.