AirBench Ltd are pleased to announce the release of our Air Cleaning System for large halls – the AirTower AT range.

Designed for general dust and fume capture in large working areas, the AT range runs continuously, capturing weld fume, smoke, and particulate and exhausting clean filtered air back to the room.

Air Towers are a backup system designed to assist with general room air cleanliness, where existing extraction is not fully capturing contamination. As weld fume settles at around 3m height, the AT range is perfectly placed to capture this layer, with the main inlet at 2.5m – making it the ideal solution for large welding halls.

AT joins our air cleaning range, providing the large-area equivalent to the existing small units – the wall mounted MF600 and floor mount MF2000 and MF3000 models.

Contact AirBench Ltd for more information, a recommendation, or to see an AirTower in action.

Visit www.airbench.com/at for more information.

Norton Clipper, one of the UK's most renowned abrasives specialists, is excited to launch its ground-breaking range of flooring machines, tools, and vacuums.

Designed to revolutionise the industry, the Norton Clipper floor solutions range offers powerful and versatile tools that deliver unparalleled precision and performance. From floor grinding machines to wood sanding and cleaning, each surface solution is the perfect partner in any floor treatment application.

Surface preparation and grinding

Whether you require a compact machine with edge-grinding functionality like the CG 280 or a machine designed for more demanding larger jobs, such as the CG 450, the Norton Clipper floor solutions range offers a versatile selection of advanced grinding tools, offering superior efficiency and reliability.

A range of tools are available for the floor grinding machines, which are simple, easy to navigate, and reliable. Prep wings, grind wings, polish pads and finish pads are colour-coded, with quick fastening application, helping you achieve excellent results with minimal downtime.

Polishing

Enhance and refine concrete floors for a super sleek and reflective finish with the Norton Clipper three-head planetary machines. When combined with compatible polish and finish pads, these machines provide the perfect solution for every step, from surface refinement to fine polishing and finishing. The compact CG 450 UNO is ideal for smaller jobs, with the larger CG550 and CG550 UNO capable of tackling larger and more demanding projects, thanks to a sturdy frame and full metal gearbox.

Cleaning

From deep scrubbing to delicate cleaning, the Norton Clipper CG Clean 430 is perfect for tasks like dewaxing, shining, and micro-sanding while also being gentle enough for delicate surfaces like carpets and rugs. This machine is compatible with a range of brushes and pad accessories to help you restore and maintain a range of flooring surfaces.

Sanding

When restoring or maintaining wooden floors, it is crucial to have a machine that provides accuracy, quality, and superior results. The CG Wood 430 features a counter-rotating planetary sander with four heads, making it an excellent choice for pre-grinding, sanding, oiling, brushing, and finishing a range of wooden floors, including hardwood and parquet. The flexible skirt provides maximum dust extraction to help minimise dust when in operation. The CG Wood 430 is compatible with self-grip sanding discs, screenbak discs and non-woven finishing and polishing pads.

Understanding the critical role of surface preparation to achieve a smooth and even surface, this comprehensive new range represents a significant step forward in the industry. Not only do the advanced flooring solutions enhance performance, but they also contribute to a cleaner and safer work environment.

Jonathan Ziebel, Product Manager at Norton Clipper, comments: "This new range is a ground-breaking venture into the floor solutions market for Norton Clipper, offering solutions for every application, from preparation and grinding, right through to polishing, cleaning, and sanding.

"Confidence, trust and quality are in our DNA as a brand, and this innovative range isn't just about individual tools or machines; it's a comprehensive solution that encompasses an entire floor treatment ecosystem. This new expansion underscores our continued commitment to offering unparalleled precision and performance, delivering results you can be confident in from day one."

To learn more about what Norton Clipper's revolutionary new flooring solutions range can offer, visit https://www.nortonabrasives.com/en-gb/newsroom/news/confidence-day-one-new-norton-clipper-floor-solutions-range, contact your local Sales Representative, or call 01785 279553.

Norton Clipper, one of the UK's most renowned abrasives specialists, is excited to introduce its all-encompassing range of battery-powered machinery.

As the construction industry is increasingly evolving, Norton Clipper technology has overcome the common constraints found with petrol and diesel engines in traditionally used tools – prioritising high performance, increased capabilities and user comfort.

The new range consists of:

• CM350 B – Masonry Saw
• CS352 B – Floor Saw
• CT601 B – Power Float
• CFP13 WB – Forward Compactor
• CR11 B – Upright Rammer
• B720 – Battery
• C700 – Quick Charger

Utilising a high-performance brushless Honda motor combined with a Honda battery pack, the Norton Clipper battery range provides consistent and reliable performance. Each machine has a single switch operation, making start-up quick, easy and hassle-free. When it comes to connecting and switching the battery, it takes just a few seconds.

Low maintenance, minimising downtime, and providing a fume-free working environment are priorities of the Norton Clipper battery-powered range, making this new range of machines safer and cleaner and allowing operators to work indoors and outdoors.

These machines require no fuel, oil, or maintenance on common parts, such as filters and spark plugs, making them a sound investment when considering the downtime and maintenance costs of traditional machines.

The 'one battery fits all' solution optimises efficiency and performance without noise, vibrations, or petrol/diesel fumes. In addition, the battery-powered machinery promotes the switch to sustainable construction equipment, which can help improve safety, and air quality for workers and those working and living in the surrounding area.

The Norton Clipper battery range is designed to perform with reduced vibrations during use. This significantly improves operator comfort, thus reducing fatigue, so operators can continually use machinery for increased amounts of time with minimal strain on the user.

Further to Norton Clipper's already vast contributions to operator comfort, the battery-powered construction machinery comes with reduced noise levels during operation, providing a more comfortable user experience. Specifically, when paired with Norton Clipper Diamond Blades, noise reduction is at its optimum and perfect for those sound-restricted areas where quiet operation is essential.

Switching to Norton Clipper battery-powered machines ensures there is no compromise to operators when moving away from petrol/diesel machines, and they can look forward to powerful and consistent high-performance, with all the additional benefits that battery technology delivers.

Ian Cornelius, Commercial Director at Saint-Gobain Abrasives, comments on the launch: "The all-encompassing range of battery-powered machines provide less noise, reduced vibrations and no fumes at all, thus enhancing ergonomics, comfort and safety. Norton Clipper's battery-powered machinery range offers the advantage of flexibility – conveniently working in various locations, whether in confined spaces, indoors or outdoors, without the concerns associated with the risks from exhaust fumes.

"There is a huge focus on sustainability in the construction industry, and battery-powered machines are part of the solution by offering the opportunity to switch away from combustion engines on work sites."

To learn more about Norton Clipper's battery-powered machinery range, visit https://www.nortonabrasives.com/en-gb/newsroom/news/discover-our-new-battery-range-no-compromise-just-power, contact your local Sales Representative or call 01785 279553.

Enerpac continues to raise the performance of its range of battery powered pumps with the announcement of the XC2-Series cordless hydraulic pumps. The new pumps offer higher speeds, longer battery run-times and greater oil capacity allowing larger tool and multiple cylinder applications to be undertaken on a single charge.

Powered by a high-capacity 54 Volt battery, the XC2 pump matches the speed of a 0,37 kW electric pump with the added benefit of cordless convenience, eliminating the need for extension cords and noisy and emission producing generators. With the XC2 pump, managing cable trip risks are eliminated and environmental health and safety concerns significantly reduced. 

More projects on a single battery charge

The XC2 pump’s brushless motor provides twice the life of brushed motors and high-flow rates for increased productivity, allowing significant work completions on a single battery charge. In addition to increasing engineer efficiency, it also enables a more flexible approach to completing projects.  Available in either 2 or 4 litres oil capacity, the 4 litre XC2 pump can be used with larger and multiple cylinders, up to four 50 ton cylinders, two 75 ton cylinders or a single 100 ton cylinder, for example. 

XC2-Series manual valve models also include a variable speed trigger enabling greater control of tool or cylinder movement. The pump’s bladder reservoir design reduces the risk of contamination and allows pump use in any position; ideal for projects where access and working space are limited. 

The XC2 pumps are highly portable with weights ranging from 11.9kg to 16.8kg depending on valve function and oil capacity, effectively bringing previously difficult to service remote projects within easy reach. They also include integrated steel rings to attach the accessory carry strap.

The XC2-Series 54 Volt fast battery charger minimises downtime with a 1.5 hour charge cycle. An LED display provides charge status, over temperature and damaged battery indication.

Heavy duty pendant controls

Heavy-duty pendants are used to operate any Enerpac XC2-Series pump. Easy to connect or disconnect when not required, the pendants feature large buttons, an over moulded grip, lanyard loop and hanger magnet. Multiple seals within the pendant provide IP64 environmental protection. When working in confined spaces where using any cord can be problematic, the pendant control is easily detached, and the pump operated by the trigger.

Torque specific model available

For bolting applications, there is the XC-2 cordless torque wrench pump featuring an adjustable pressure relief valve which can be locked when the desired pressure is set. It can be used with a wide range of torque wrenches and features a 100 mm glycerine-filled pressure gauge for easy viewing and a 6 metre detachable pendant control.

Stay Connected - Enerpac Connect

The Enerpac Connect app gives XC2-Series pump users a complete picture of the tool and its usage, both important factors in job safety and productivity. Using either a SmartPhone or tablet, XC2-Series owners can scan the QR code on the pump nameplate for instant access to product specifications, manuals, videos, job specific usage data, and wireless firmware updates through smart enabled tool technology.

Redefining Pump Portability, Usability and Efficiency

“The XC2-Series cordless hydraulic pumps demonstrate the focus that Enerpac is offering customers in terms of portability, usability and enhanced job performance. The increases in speed, battery runtime, and oil capacity compared to the previous XC-Series is where the XC2-Series excels,” says Angie Wallace Global Product Manager, Enerpac. 

We’re translating our outstanding pump innovation and technology into tangible customer benefits designed to improve competitiveness and service delivery, as well as providing the ability to take on larger and higher cycle applications with a cordless pump.”

For more information on the Enerpac XC2-Series cordless hydraulic pump, and torque pump, visit www.enerpac.com.

Integrated Global Services, Inc. (IGS) has been named a 2023 Supplier Award winner by ADM (NYSE: ADM), a global leader in sustainability sourced solutions from nature. ADM honored seven companies based on superior performance and the ability to deliver exceptional value to ADM and its customers. 

“ADM’s purpose is to unlock the power of nature to enrich the quality of life, and we cannot achieve that purpose without strong partners who share our values and our commitment to driving innovation through collaboration,” said Wade Wright, ADM Vice President, Global Indirect Procurement. “That’s why we’re excited to recognize these seven suppliers and vendors who have demonstrated excellence in safety, service, sustainability, quality, and value while helping us deliver for customers and consumers around the world. We are very excited to announce IGS as a recipient this year.”

The award criteria was based on both hard and soft data points from the supplier scorecard process, as well as direct feedback from ADM stakeholders. Awards were presented to non-commodity suppliers across seven categories: Value in Excellence, Safety Excellence, Quality, Sustainability, Service in Excellence, Supplier Diversity, and Supplier of the Year. 

Integrated Global Services received the Supplier Safety award this year.

“IGS is incredibly honored to receive this award from one of our most trusted and respected customers. Our commitment to safety and quality is a foundational element of our business and this is reflected in the fact that since 2019, we have scored 4.85 out of 5 for quality commitment and 4.8 out of 5 for site execution, safety and schedule adherence, surveying more than 150 clients,” said CEO and President, Rich Crawford. “ADM challenges us to become a better company in so many respects, and it’s an honor to be recognized by a strategic partner for our commitment to building a reputation for safety. Our vision is to be recognized as the most valued surface solutions company in the world for mission-critical equipment. As such, our loyal, diverse team of more than 700 personnel globally are very proud to receive this award today,” he concluded.

About Integrated Global Services (IGS)

IGS contributes to a more abundant and sustainable world by providing customized efficiency and reliability solutions for mission-critical equipment in the global materials & energy sectors. With the largest global footprint, operational capabilities and experience delivering solutions on-site on six continents, IGS has more than 35 years of experience helping asset owners increase uptime, profitability, and reliability of their mission-critical equipment.

About ADM

ADM unlocks the power of nature to enrich the quality of life. We’re a premier global human and animal nutrition company, delivering solutions today with an eye to the future. We’re blazing new trails in health and well-being as our scientists develop groundbreaking products to support healthier living. We’re a cutting-edge innovator leading the way to a new future of plant-based consumer and industrial solutions to replace petroleum-based products. We’re an unmatched agricultural supply chain manager and processor, providing food security by connecting local needs with global capabilities. And we’re a leader in sustainability, scaling across entire value chains to help decarbonize our industry and safeguard our planet. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional and sustainability challenges of today and tomorrow. Learn more at www.adm.com.

Wendy Hayward, Managing Director of Aircare Compressor Services Limited has been appointed as the new Vice President of the British Compressed Air Society (BCAS).

She joins Steven Rohan, BCAS President and the BCAS Board in continuing to drive standards, educate members and compressed air end users and provide independent advice to Industry.

With over 30 years’, hands-on experience in the compressed air industry, gained through her family-run distribution business, Wendy is familiar with the challenges faced by many smaller organisations and plans to bring this knowledge to her new role, as she explains:

“The compressed air industry is a highly skilled sector, with businesses offering excellent engineering services to their valued customers - providing technical advice on ways to reduce energy consumption, stay compliant, improve compressor performance and minimise maintenance costs to name but a few.

“However, while the industry comprises a wealth of engineering talent, managing the multitude of other priorities as a smaller business can be complex.  This is where I feel my experience as a compressed air distributor, together with the broad range of services available from BCAS, can really help.

“For example, we are working towards new apprenticeship groups for our members and their employees, with the aim of advising and supporting on how to recruit and retain apprentices in our industry.  BCAS can also assist with training, with courses available to fit around busy schedules.

“In particular, I’m keen to see our members sharing their knowledge around common problems, such as new ways to attract engineering talent into our industry or assisting each other with navigating changes in legislation and standards. BCAS is an excellent vehicle for this via its focus groups and committees.”

Vanda Jones, BCAS Executive Director and Company Secretary added:

‘“We have been working hard to ensure the Board is representative of all our members, so were delighted when Wendy joined BCAS as a Board member two years ago. Now, as our new Vice President, we are looking forward to drawing on Wendy’s experience further still.

“We truly value her contribution and the insight she brings as a compressed air distributor and business leader. We know this will be a great asset as she helps to advise members during her tenure.

“It is by listening to the views of all our members that we continue to develop the Society for the future, to ensure we provide the best advice, service and support to compressed air end users.”

For further information about the British Compressed Air Society please visit https://www.bcas.org.uk

I

Two of the Government’s most senior officials regulating industry believe the ‘louder voice’ from a new generation of women will make everyone at work feel more comfortable.

Sarah Albon and Lisa Pinney MBE say that while progress has been made, women working in heavy industry today are still provided with ill-fitting protective equipment and unsuitable welfare facilities while working on site.

The chief executives of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Coal Authority respectively, regulating traditionally male-dominated sectors, were speaking ahead of International Women’s Day.

“As more and more women join these industries, they’ll become a louder voice,” said Sarah Albon, who leads HSE.

“With just little bit of thought – and you see our best companies do this – more places can make those extra few steps, not to make a woman feel that she has to ask, or somebody is doing her a favour, but just to make her feel as comfortable and on an equal footing with all of her male colleagues,” she continued.

Improving conditions on site will benefit men too, Sarah Albon added: “Because when I look at some of these sites, I’d say it’s not suitable for anyone. But it’s the fact that women are coming in and looking at it, perhaps with 21st century eyes and saying, ‘you expect me to put up with that?’ ”

“Men have perhaps just become ingrained and used to it in those heavy industries over decades and decades. But that right to have dignity at work, it applies to all of us, men and women.”

Lisa Pinney, chief executive of the Coal Authority, sympathised with how difficult not being comfortable at work can be. “It’s so much about confidence. If you’re meeting on site or if you’re doing something and you’ve got sleeves down to the floor and feel like you’re wearing a tent, it really affects your confidence in terms of being able to do the best job that you can do.”

Both women started their careers when they were in a significant minority, and overcame barriers to progress.

But the inequality once denied Lisa a job: “I didn’t get a job once because they didn’t have women’s toilets. I was the top candidate, but they wouldn’t have me on site.”

“We have come a long way”, added Sarah, “but we’ve still got a long way to go.”

Enabling Net Zero

A wide-ranging discussion between the pair covered a range of different topics including the role each organisation plays in protecting the environment. They were talking at a site run by the Coal Authority, where water from abandoned mines was being treated before entering the wider water system.

Sarah Albon said: “One of the things that we at HSE, and here at the Coal Authority we can offer is being really part of that next wave of technology, safe Net Zero technologies and thinking about how we can all do our bit for climate change – and doing that in a safe way.”

Lisa Pinney said: “Public safety is the absolute ethos of both our organisations.”

Marking big anniversaries

Over the next 12 months, both HSE and the Coal Authority will mark significant milestones. It will soon be 50 years since HSE was formed on 1 January 1975, and 30 years since the Coal Authority was borne out of the Coal Board.

Sarah Albon said: “We’re enormously proud that generations of people working in HSE over the last 50 years have made huge strides in improving the safety of Britain’s workforce – we’re one of the safest countries to work in now.

“As we push forward into the next 50 years, we’re wanting to bring that same effort into health as we’ve done in safety. We’re still seeing people unnecessarily made ill through the work that they do.”

Lisa Pinney said: “It’s about celebrating our journey. We were created to support the coal industry when it was privatised, and to deal with some of the challenges around that. Over the last 30 years we’ve seen so much change, things like treating mine water, protecting drinking water and into the future thinking about opportunities like mine water heat.”

The pair were speaking on visit to the A-Winning mine water treatment site in Derbyshire, a scheme operated by the Coal Authority, of which Lisa Pinney is the chief executive.

www.hse.gov.uk

Their full conversation has been converted into a 15-minute podcast which can be found here: