Industry Spotlight: Port and Marine Terminal

Posted on by

Do consumers give much thought to how products reach their destination? Probably not! There is a lot that goes into transport and most times, a port and marine terminal plays an intricate role.

Most major cities have ports, and these terminals play into the fiber of our economy. They provide a valuable service that is interconnected worldwide.

Ports involve more than workers loading and unloading cargo all day. State-of-the-art technology, machinery, and logistics are required for them to operate efficiently.

Continue reading as we shine a spotlight on the latest in the port and marine industry.

Global Automated Container Terminal

As with any industry, it is important to know where the merchandise is at all times. Ports also need the capability to move cargo containers without too much disruption.

The global automated container terminal market continues to grow as other tools in the marine terminal business change. Ships are larger with the capacity to accommodate bulkier container units.

Automated terminals are handled remotely and improve container logistics by the use of the following:

Ship-to-Shore Cranes

These cranes have grown in size over time. STS cranes are capable of moving larger shipping containers faster.

They play a pivotal part in the success of the automation process because they load and unload cargo.

Automatic Stacking Cranes

Like the STS cranes, automatic stacking cranes contribute to the movement of cargo containers. These stacking cranes have been modified over the years so they can handle bigger shipments of TEU containers.

Automatic stacking cranes must also be equipped to handle increased capacity and traffic at the marine terminal. This is due to the bigger cargo ships creating substantial changes in shipments.

Remote Controlled Center of Operations

With technological advances in automation, someone has to be able to control the equipment. Expect to see fewer workers on the ground as remote controlled operations go into effect.

Think of it as air traffic control of the marine terminal. Someone will be in a room controlling the cranes and gates and other movements at the port.

Drone Technology

We’ve heard Amazon is hoping to introduce drone delivery soon to get packages to consumers quicker. Well, port and marine terminals may be heading in the same direction.

New technology could soon introduce computer navigated drones. These drones would have the capability to move containers from one side of the port to the other. Perhaps they could one day deliver the shipment to its final destination.

This technology is not available yet but advances are being made.

Automation – the Future of Marine Terminal Technology

As you can see, automation is the future of the port business. However, with the greatest technology in place, equipment will continue to need servicing.

Having the right supply company to provide parts and services for your fleet is crucial.

Whether you are working with high-powered cranes or a tugboat, Kor-Pak has what you need. We supply crane brakes, festoon systems, motors, radio remote controls, and more.

Check out our services and contact a Kor-Pak representative today!

5 of the Highest Quality Industrial Brands to Look For

Posted on by

In the world of industrial engineering, products have to be safe, durable and resilient in addition to highly functional. It’s the top industrial brands that we’ll talk about below that continue providing exceptional equipment year after year.

Ensure safety on your worksite with reliable products from these five trust-worthy industrial brands:

1. Stromag

One of the most reputable names in the industrial equipment realm, Stromag is a leader in the manufacturing of innovative power transmission components for industrial drivetrain applications.

The company focuses on creating efficient products using the latest technologies with energy-efficient solutions.

Their products include disc brakes, couplings, limit switches, brakes, and electric, hydraulic and pneumatic clutches. Stromag is known the whole world round for their superior products used for various industrial uses.

2. Scan-Pac

As their subheading suggests, the crew at Scan-Pac are the friction and Phenolic specialists. They are mainly recognized and praised for their development of organic friction products in addition to Phenolic bearings and laminates.

The company also produce woven friction material and Gatke Phenolic bushings, bearings, and tube products. Scan-Pac’s claim to fame is its development of non-asbestos friction material that revolutionized the industry with safer products.

Between the company’s three facilities (including two in the States, in Texas and Wisconsin) Scan-Pac has 100,000 square-feet of production space to pump out reliable, worksite-ready products.

3. Marland Clutch

Marland Clutch has helped heavy duty applications run smoother by manufacturing backstopping and overrunning clutches that exceed industry expectations.

They have a science behind their products that has worked for the company since its appearance in 1931: products use the principle of cylindrical rollers on inclined cam planes (lower-speed) or enhanced sprag technology (higher-speed).

The superior functions are evident in the Marland backstops, clutches, and clutch couplings that are known all over for their quality and durability.

4. SEW Eurodrive

Another world leader in industrial applications for ages, SEW Eurodrive has spent 80 years innovating drive technology and drive-based automation. And they have plenty of milestones over those 80 years to prove their worth.

They introduced the gear motor in 1931, then went on to create the first variable speed gear motor, develop electronic drivers early on, and manufacture the first motor with energy-efficient copper rotors.

SEW employs thousands of people in locations worldwide, pushing out quality products that make their way to industrial sites across the globe.

5. Demag

Demag is a leader in cranes, drive, and other handling technology that can be used in a diverse range of industrial applications. The company thinks big and small, offering products fit for tiny workshops and massive industrial projects alike.

And what’s more, their products help worksites all down the line–from load handling and material flow during production to storage. On top of that, they have a high reputation for creating safe, reliable products for stellar performance.

And, their sales and service support is renowned for its effectiveness and professional “customer-comes-first” attitude. Put together all of that with upgradeable crane features, and you have an unbeatable product.

Stick to the Industrial Brands With Great Reputations

The industry has evolved a lot over the years, but this time clues us in on which companies and products should be trusted. Here’s the takeaway: research a brand’s reputation before investing.

The ones that are worth it will likely have a long line of successes, dating back decades of effective application.

Want to check out more insightful tips from the industry professionals? Head on over to the Kor Pac Corporation blog today!

4 Signs That You Need a Brake Repair Service

Posted on by

Industrial products harness power that demands the most stopping power possible to stay safe, as safety is always the number one concern. Brake repair is something you cannot take chances on.

Your stopping power is your lifeline to safety and productivity. Catch faults and wear before they become a problem. Kor-Pak provides the knowledge, parts, and services you need to assess your brakes before they become a problem.

Here are four signs that you need brake repair on your machinery!

1. Time

Brakes wear out, there is no way around it. Even with our highest quality longest lasting Kor-Pak products, brakes and parts are subject to the wears and tears of high volumes of work.

Your brakes are rated for certain loads, pressures, and temperatures. Over time, these factors deteriorate your stopping power. Stay ahead by reviewing the time between pad changes, rotor turnings, and pressure inspections.

Not all systems are created equal. By understanding your system’s functions, you can tackle problems before they arise.

2. Visual Slippage

A motor brake slows and stops the engine, which is the primarily used brake system. Drum or disk, wear on these brakes can cause slippage. This slippage can cause a longer time in slowing or stopping rate.

A longer stopping time is a sign that your brakes may need service or replacement.

In some applications such as cranes, a holding brake is used. This is a locking brake that holds the hoisting system. Holding brakes also act as a failsafe in case of motor brake failure. When holding, no slippage should occur– if you notice movement, it is time to get inspected.

In fields that require the precision of heavy loads, slippage can cause a catastrophe. Keep a keen eye on slipping, as it is usually a sign of faulty brakes.

3. Unusual Sounds

Screeching, grinding, and other metallic sounds under load instill fear in even the most well-trained technician. However, listening for these sounds puts you a step ahead. Often times, further damage or physical harm may be easily avoided if you catch these sounds as soon as they happen.

Grinding and screeching is often caused by work disk or drum pads. As these parts wear down, metal pegs can become exposed, which rub on the friction surface, causing the sound. These act as indicators that the equipment needs servicing.

Another cause of these sounds can be contamination, corrosion, and lack of cleanliness within the stopping system. Servicing this can be as simple as a good cleaning. However, things such as corrosion or excessive debris can cause damage to the system and can require servicing such as rotor turning and pad replacement.

4. Visual Inspections

Nothing gets past a good routine. Give yourself peace of mind that the equipment you use checks out on proper functioning standards.

Visually inspecting your braking system can give you some of the best insight on how your system is operating, and whether or not you need to schedule service.

With note taking supplies in hand, set out to ensure all pieces of your braking system are within standards. Check your rotors for film that may lead to excessive heat and cause the brakes to be slick. Also, ensure your rotors do not have gouges and are not warped.

Similarly, make sure your drums or any other stopping surfaces are clean and clear.

Another crucial checking point that you must incorporate into your check-ups, is the linkage. Many systems use hydraulic fluid to generate stopping pressure. In the case you see fluid where fluid should not be, stop operations. Loss of brake fluid pressure will lead to disastrous loss of stopping power.

If your system is cable driven or kinetic, be sure all your cables and linkages are free and clear with no frays. These problems are signs of wear that should be further inspected, as they could be a result of other issues.

Schedule Your Brake Repair Service Before it Becomes a Problem

In any event that your braking system may be in trouble, whatever your industrial application may be, schedule a service appointment today. Don’t take chances with your brakes.

3 Things You Must Know About Overhead Crane Inspection

Posted on by

When it comes to using a crane for your industrial or construction business, you need to make crane inspection a regular part of your operation.

Getting your crane inspection is both a matter of functionality and workplace safety, making this a necessity.

You’ll need to learn the ins and outs of inspecting these cranes so that you’re in good hands with the maintenance of your equipment.

Let’s take a look at the facts.

An Overhead Crane Inspection Keeps You OSHA Certified

It’s important to realize that getting regular crane inspection is not just a luxury — it’s a necessity for your workplace safety.

You need to keep your workplace up to Occupational Safety And Health Administration (OSHA) standards. This way, you will avoid penalties that can get your workplace shut down or fined.

These inspections will help you make sure that your crane is able to handle a workload based on weight requirements. You should also have these professionals inspect the rigging, dock, and all other facets of the crane operation.

When you take OSHA inspections seriously, you’ll keep your site up and running without a problem.

Getting Your Crane Inspection Helps To Make The Appropriate Upgrades

The more frequently you get crane inspections, the easier it’ll be for you to know when it’s time for an upgrade.

Getting crane upgrades allows you to automate your crane service. Be sure that you repair the brake linings and installing brand new gears.

The inspection company will offer repairs and replacements for any crane parts that are faulty. An upgrade lets you get better performance from the crane for years to come.

An Inspection Gives Your Equipment Longevity

A crane inspection is worthwhile because it helps you avoid setbacks that cause your cranes to break down.

The longevity you get from your cranes is lengthened, which protects your entire workplace.

Your crane contractor will let you know when it’s time to make repairs like flame hardening the wheels and changing out fluids.

These inspection professionals will assist you in figuring out which repairs are necessary in order to help you get the most out of your crane service. You’ll be better able to catch problems like corrosion and wear, which a quality inspection will easily point out.

Hire Us For Your Crane Work Today

If you are in need of crane inspections and other repairs, we are the professionals that will get the job done correctly.

At Kor-pak, we’ll gladly take on your crane maintenance needs, in order to keep the equipment working properly. We’ve been in business helping people in your field for years and can keep your work site as safe as possible.

Check out our blog to learn more about crane service and other topics related to your field.

If you are interested in getting an inspection or a repair, reach out to us in order to learn more about how we can assist you.

4 Great Benefits of Modernizing to Automated Cranes

Posted on by

Cranes make life easier for everyone. But not all cranes are created equal.

It’s clear that Automated Cranes are a step above the rest. For many reasons, using a crane that is up to date with current technology gives you a huge boost.

Still not sure? We can help. Here are four great benefits to keep your mind on.

1. Improved Safety

Cranes make once-impossible tasks attainable. People use them in very different ways, from lifting heavy objects to removing chunks of a building.

But one factor is obvious across all contexts of crane use: the potential for danger. When you’re dealing with massive objects and regular-sized people, using a crane can always be dangerous. A little bit of human risk can introduce a whole lot of danger.

That’s why modernizing to these cranes can be such an important move for you and your team. You’ll be safer in everything you do.

And you’ll be able to do much more.

2. More Efficient Machinery

Energy consumption takes up headspace for many managers. How much energy do we need to consume? How much will that cost?

The answers get much more appealing when you’re dealing with Automated Cranes. The machines are on the cutting edge of technology, which includes the way they consume energy. You’re likely to have lower bills for heating and electricity when you use these machines.

There’s also another key way we talk about efficiency.

3. Project Speed

These cranes can do the same work you always do in a faster amount of time. The benefits of that are clear: you can take on more projects and complete them more quickly than ever before.

Plus, there’s the “automated” factor. The amount of work that you yourself are doing is less when you use these cranes.

When you let the machine do a lot of the work for you, your life gets easier. You can focus on other processes that need to take place for your business. In that way, these cranes can provide a boost for your entire business.

4. Improved Spacial Relations

Not everyone is an expert when it comes to organization. Whether it’s your desk or a warehouse or construction site, seeing things out of place and in disarray can cause a lot of anxiety.

Automated Cranes can let you organize your space in an easier way. These cranes can do more than others, including reaching into tight spaces where others simply can’t.

That feature allows you to maximize the space you’re using when you store away certain items or set up a new project site. You’ll soon find that your headaches are less frequent.

Consider Automated Cranes

Automated Cranes are without a doubt a massive upgrade for anyone who relies on cranes.

Modernizing your cranes can bring about a new era of efficiency and success for your various projects. It’s an important step that any company with cranes should take in 2017 and moving forward.

Interested in taking that step? We’re here to help.

Reach out to a member of our team to get started.

Why You Can Rely on the Quality of Demag Cranes

Posted on by

Whether you’re a small business looking to invest in some equipment to help you grow, or a large industry leader upgrading to new equipment, you need products that you can trust to get the job done.

If you’re looking for a crane manufacturer that you can rely on, look no further.

Keep reading to learn why Demag Cranes might be the perfect solution for your company.

We Offer Solutions To Fit Every Company’s Needs

We offer a wide range of Demag Cranes and other products. Which means that we have an equipment solution for every company, regardless of your size.

From cranes and drives to handling equipment, we have products to fit the needs of major industrial enterprises and small workshops alike. Our Demag Crane products offer high safety, reliability, and excellent performance. We’ll help you get more done in less time, while keeping your employees safe.

Terex Has Consolidated Their Products To Offer You Improved Designs

In 2016, Terex, the manufacturer of Demag Cranes went through some major changes. This resulted in them narrowing their scope. Now they’re focusing their efforts on several smaller industries. One of these industries is their Cranes.

Moving from five main areas of focus to just three means that those three areas, including cranes, aerial work platforms, and materials processing get all of the attention that was once spread thinner.

Focusing their efforts meant that they have more time to devote to improving the stellar designs that they’ve already been offering.

They’ll Keep Your Employees Safe

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an average of 3 million workplace injuries each year. Keeping your employees safe should be the number one priority in the workplace.

Besides worrying about the wellness of your employees, workplace safety can affect your business in other ways. It can also help you avoid costly work delays, expensive lawsuits, and more.

Demag offers superior functionality and safety features. Their products can help you in ensuring the safety of your employees in the workplace.

We Can Get Your Help or Service When You Need it

Kor-Pak is an authorized dealer of Demag Cranes. But we also carry the complete Demag portfolio of products.

This means that if something ever does go wrong with your crane, we’ll have what you need to get it fixed. Additionally, Kor-Pak provides service for Demag products. This includes repairs, inspections, engineering, and other technical services.

Using an unauthorized service provider to work on your crane could result in bad repairs. Or it could lead to even more issues down the road. Instead, it’s important to choose an experienced service provider that understands your equipment and its exact specifications.

We offer superior service to help you get your equipment back up and running as fast as possible. We’ll help to prevent you from losing time and money.

Choose Demag Cranes For Your Company

Once you’ve decided that Demag Cranes are the right choice for your company, contact us to get started on choosing the perfect products to get the job done.

We’re ready to help you find solutions catered to your company’s unique needs and demands so that you can get the job done right.

How to Choose the Right Hydraulic Power Unit for Your Machine

Posted on by

Hydraulic motors require hydraulic power units, and the utilizing the right one needs to be carefully considered.

Whether you’re in need of a unit for industrial, mobile or aerospace applications, it’s crucial to understand which hydraulic power unit is right for a specific machine.

Here are some tips to guide you through making this selection…

A Good Investment

As the manufacturer, you’re here to provide your clients with fully-functional, reliable machinery, that proves to be a good investment.

To do this, you need to think about the machine’s functionality, in order to make a hydraulic power unit choice.

If you’re aware of the type, you’re off to a good start.

Choosing the Type of Hydraulic Power Unit

There are various factors to consider, which you, the manufacturer, should be versed in when it comes to equipping your machinery with a power unit.

Level of Force

Does your machine require a unit that provides a consistent force, for larger-scale tasks?

You may be looking at a machine that lifts heavy items or operates a large structure; or one that requires two stages of force, or even one constant stream of power.

Other items need sporadic power, and so the needs are a little less demanding when it comes to choosing a unit.

Size Matters

The machine’s size is also as important as it’s functionality, as the power unit can be selected based on this.

Micro-units, for example, are ideal for an item of machinery that isn’t very big. You won’t need a big unit when it comes to electric gates, for instance.

Machinery that lifts things, as another example, are a little larger scale and could be ideally suited to mini, rather than micro, units. This type of machine needs a little more power, and are more cumbersome, but still only require a smaller sized hydraulic power unit.

Flow Rate

As a manufacturer, you will know about the pump’s flow rate or capacity, and so use this to decipher which will be the right power unit for the machinery in question.

Armed with this specific piece of information, you will be able to pinpoint the best power unit based on the specifications of the units on offer. The size of a unit and its power drive levels will play an important role in matching it to the machine in question.

It’s important not to overdo it, too; too much power and an excess of pressure in a unit will likely jam the machinery’s internal components and will affect the hydraulic fluid and therefore the functionality of the machinery.

Outlet and Inlet Hoses

Have you looked at the outlet and inlet sizes for the hose on your machine? These will be designed in order to handle a certain level of pump power, and so the unit will need to correspond with these aspects of the machine’s design also.

Expert Advice

For additional help in making this choice, Kor-Pak can help you select the right item for your needs and specializes in services after purchase, not just the supply of crucial industry products.

Kor-Pak prides itself as both an OEM and distributor for products ranging from Heavy Duty Industrial Braking Systems, Wear Materials and Rubber Parts for Locomotives and Passenger Cars, Engine Seals, Kevlar Bearings, and Custom Machined and Fabricated parts.

Check out our industries page to see whether we can help you with your specific needs.

Why You Should Trust SEW-Eurodrive with All of Your Motor Control Needs

Posted on by

After 80 years in the motor control industry, SEW-Eurodrive has remained a leader in transmissions, electronic drives, and more.

Their unique approach to engineering is one of the reasons we’ve decided to partner with them and become part of their distribution network.

Since developing the first variable speed gear motor, SEW-Eurodrive has continued to stay ahead of the competition in developing cost-effective and unique solutions for the automotive industry.

We know how important is to stay on top of trends in manufacturing which is why we’re proud to partner with such an innovative company.

Here are a few of products we’re excited to offer.

SEW-Eurodrive Gearboxes and Frequency Inverters

Part of their unique modular concept, these gearboxes and inverters offer a high torque density along with a robust service life.

Since this company understands the importance of variable speeds, you’ll be impressed with the diversity of their reduction ratios.

They also offer fine-tuned gradings to match.

Choose from single-stage or multi-stage version, various mounting options including a flange and/or foot, and a flange-mounted version with an extended bearing hub.

Varimot Variable Speed Gear Motor

Instead of deciding between VARIBLOC(R) and VARIMOT(R) units, engineers decided to combine the variable speed gears into one unit. This gear motor continues to build on their modular concept in order to develop a variable speed unit.

You’ll find the low output speed and high torque can suit all of your needs with impressive reliability with a strong starting torque.

The variable-speed units can be fitted with DRE or DRS motors and have been tested to meet the most rigorous international efficiency standards.

This unit has finely stepped gear ratios and is perfect for setups that need to have options between manual or remote speed controls

SEW Eurodrive Industrial Gears

SEW-Eurodrive has created a series three distinct industrial gears: the X, MC, and MC.P series.

The X series contains finely stepped ratings of torque that give it the ability to work in a broad range of applications, including conveyors and agitators.

This series also continues to apply the universal modular concept that makes these gears so versatile.

Their MC gears are built as compact helical-bevel and helical units.

They come in a variety of sizes to cover a vast torque range from 53k-570k lb-in. This series is great for transporting heavy loads, running crane drives and shredder, or material handling.

The high torque transfer capacity is built to meet the needs of any system.

If you’re looking for something that needs little maintenance, look no further than the MC.P series. Their anti-friction bearings are fully oil-lubricated deliver high reduction ratios and low output speeds.

This series is perfect for dryers, feeders, and conveyors.

SEW-Eurodrive Decentralized Drive System

This system is built with the manufacturer’s patented MOVIMOT(R) gear motor and digital frequency inverter technology. This combination allows for a power range from 0.5 to 5.4 horsepower.

The MOVIMOT(R) system requires very little installation space and can be mounted in any position. It works in systems with and without brakes with most supply voltages.

This compact, heavy-duty gear motor comes with a variety of enclosure options and works with a variety of decentralized drive applications.

Something To Suit Every Motor Control Need

Finding the right motor and gear combination is the key to an efficient facility.

That’s why we’re so proud to partner with SEW Eurodrive to offer some of the best options in cutting-edge motor control technology.

Read our blog to find out more about how to SEW Eurodrive motors can be custom fit for your facility.

Guide: Our Selection of Rail Parts for Every Application

Posted on by

Maintaining precision railway machinery requires know-how and high-quality rail parts.

Unfortunately, it can sometimes be a real challenge to find those parts.

It’s important to find an honest, reasonably priced supplier to form a relationship with.

Keep reading to get a quick overview of the parts and supplies we offer.

Wear Materials

Manufacturers make modern railway equipment to higher standards than at any point in history. The machinery lasts longer and provides better service than those in the past.

Having said that, there are still certain rail parts that wear down through regular use by design. Identifying these parts and setting up a schedule of repairs can help you keep all your equipment at maximum efficiency.

We offer a wide range of wear parts in a number of different materials. These include:

  • Equalizer seats
  • Vertical liners
  • Center plates
  • Rigid and phenolic wear pads

We have the facilities and know-how to fabricate a wide range of custom rail parts. Just send us your specifications and we’ll do our best to meet your needs.

It’s very important to maintain safety and maintenance standards as required by federal regulations. Replacing all wear materials at the right time within their operating lifespan can prevent incidents and help you stay in compliance.

Rubber Rail Parts

We use rubber in a variety of railway applications, from shock absorbers to gaskets and diaphragms. Rubber, whether artificial or synthetic, eventually breaks down.

Several factors can cause this.

Wear and tear is a big one and the friction of day to day use taking its toll. The biggest factors are usually UV radiation from the sun and oxidation.

Any products exposed to the outdoors will need to a more stringent monitoring program than an enclosed product. The same goes for a product that will experience high pressures or frequent changes in pressure.

We have the capability to create custom rubber parts to meet your needs.

Molded and Friction Facings

We specialize in fabricating or machining custom friction products. These products are designed to work in high-stress situations.

We can create a range of parts for a railroad, oil derrick, and several other industrial applications. We have a range of materials to choose from. These include:

  • Mid-co materials
  • Hi-co
  • Kevlar
  • Specialty

We can also machine facings to meet the needs of your locomotives and machinery.

We can either supply parts to standard manufacturer specifications or customize them to match your needs.

Miscellaneous Parts

If you’re looking for more standardized parts we are happy to oblige you.

We carry shims, wheel chocks, springs, and seals. These are available in every size and configuration you might require.

As long as we have the specifications for the parts you need, we can likely machine them for you.

Learn More

Our inventory includes many more products than those described above.

Our true value is our ability to create custom parts for just about any industrial or mechanical need.

Check out our full list of products to see how we can help you keep your machinery on and locomotives running.

Industry Spotlight: The Mining Industry

Posted on by

North America is rich with resources. Today, we mine everything from carbonate rock, like marble, to minerals, like Uranium. These substances can be used to make items, from lazy susans to nuclear power reactors. That’s why mining is one of the oldest and most important professions in the contemporary United States, stemming back to the original colonies.

But with the power and reach of technology growing, today’s mining industry is very different from that of as little as 10 or 20 years ago, and Americans can sense it.

There hasn’t been a time in recent history that miners have come into the spotlight as much as they did in the political climate of election 2016. With a changing outlook for their industry, miners are looking for answers as to what’s next.

And if you’re wondering the same thing. Keep reading for an outlook.

What’s Next For the Mining Industry in 2018 and Beyond?

Contrary to what some may believe from listening to waves of recent news coverage on the subject, the mining industry is actually already making a comeback. Data from UK’s FTSE 100 shows the value index for the top 7 mining companies has doubled in recent years. Meanwhile, United States stock trends show gold up 13.5% in mid-October.

And while miners are having a good year there are still many issues that affect the outlook.

Issues That Impact the Industry

Global Issues

Global Issues like the recent Brexit referendum have a profound effect on the industry. Luckily, the industry is based on American dollars and therefore strengthened by the decentralization of European money.

Environmental Impact

Environmental risks prove to be a stumbling block for miners. The legislation is frequently changing providing new protections for the environment and sometimes taking them away.

A risk associated with deregulated mining includes toxins being released into the air and water supply. In recent news, the Dakota Access pipeline has sparked controversy around this subject, with many in the Sioux Tribe of Standing Rock feeling displaced as the pipeline pumps through their water supply.

Health Risks

Health risks associated with being in the mining industry vary depending on what substance is being mined. But across the board, mining can be dangerous with risks that include inhalation of sediment, falling rocks, and exposure to toxins.

Workforce Attrition

North American miners are starting to age. Research shows over half the miners in Canada are over 50 years old. As young people coming out of college are often looking for the next best sci-tech or environmental engineering job, fewer are interested in the labor-intensive lifestyle of a miner. If the sector is going to continue to grow and attract new talent, there will need to be a talent acquisition strategy.

Technology

Technology is a driving force changing the mining sector. Innovative technology has been widely accepted to reduce fatalities and injury and make processes more efficient. With no shortage of mining companies collecting research and data, the next big advancement could be just around the corner in 2018 and beyond.

The Mining Sector is Healing

Trends suggest the mining sector isn’t going down without a fight. And in fact, it’s getting better.

Never has the industry been safer or more innovative than it is today. These trends in workforce safety and efficiency will continue as more research is used to the industry’s advantage.

If the sector can withstand new environmental legislation, overcome workforce attrition and mitigate overall health risks, the mining sector will likely grow in the coming years. With over two centuries of history to infer from, our outlook suggests the mining industry will be just fine.

For information on what Kor-Pak does for miners, check us out here.