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Canada dropped two spots to 12th overall in the 32nd edition of Global Competitiveness Report 2011-12, released today by the World Economic Forum. Canada has fallen three places in the global rankings since 2009, despite achieving almost identical overall competitiveness scores over the past three years. To the Conference Board of Canada — the Canadian partner institute in preparing the report — this year’s ranking reinforces how global competitors continue to gain ground. Canada must emphasize improvements to its productivity and competitiveness to maintain its high standard of living and quality of life. “Canada should not be satisfied with its…

Preventive maintenance is a key component in maximizing a pump’s lifespan, not to mention cost savings, increased profitability, increased pump availability, improved productivity and decreased repair costs. Thus, it makes sense for pump owners and users to implement a comprehensive service and maintenance program. To yield maximum profit, equipment must be operated properly. Effective service and maintenance keeps equipment working at peak efficiency; so service and maintenance should not be viewed as a strain on income. Rather, they should be considered a contribution to output. The key to a good service and maintenance program is preventive maintenance. This includes adjusting…

Samsung Renewable Energy Inc. has selected London, Ont., as the site for a new manufacturing facility that will produce state-of-the-art solar modules for use in Ontario and for export around the world. It is expected the new factory will employ 200 direct, long-term manufacturing positions. An additional 120 indirect jobs are expected to be created as well. Once realized, the plant will fulfill Samsung's manufacturing commitment under its Green Energy Investment Act (GEIA) agreement with the Government of Ontario. Under the terms of the GEIA, Samsung and its partners will invest $7 billion in new investment in Ontario to create…

Question: “An analysis of bearing failures pinpointed contaminated lubricants as the primary cause. Could you provide tips for contamination avoidance?” While not exhaustive, these tips will help keep your lubricants clean: Storage 1) Always store lubricants in a dry warm place, protected from the elements. 2) If lubricants are stored outside, open to the elements, ensure they are protected from large temperature changes. (This can cause condensation in the container and create water contamination.) 3) If lubricant barrels are stored outside in the rain, store barrels horizontally in a rack system. If no rack is available, ensure the barrel is…

Prime Minister Stephen Harper calls the latest attempt by the United States to implement Buy American restrictions a “regrettable development” that will weigh down economic growth in North America. A new job-creation package from President Barack Obama would resurrect protectionist measures that would require work on public infrastructure to be done with U.S.-made materials. Harper said he likes the president's broader plan, but not the Buy American element. “We're obviously very concerned that once again they're looking at stimulus spending that has protectionist elements,” Harper said last week at a news conference in Saskatoon. “And, as the minister of trade…

PTM Industries has announced it is now the Canadian sales representative for Rossi Gearmotors. Based in Suwannee, Ga., Rossi offers a complete line of gearmotors, gear reducers and motion control products to distributors and original equipment manufacturers across North America. Regarding this new partnership, PTM president Dan Cotton said, “Rossi is recognized in Canada and around the world as a superior brand. PTM is proud that Rossi has chosen us as their national sales and marketing partner.” Rossi president George Rizza stated, “PTM has a long and successful history of being Canada’s premier sales agency. This is a perfect fit…