Follow Us
Copyright MHI © 2025 | All Rights Reserved
Lithium-ion batteries function within integrated ecosystem of connected technologies that continuously share data to help businesses manage energy efficientlyGREENE, N.Y., August 12, 2025 — Today, The Raymond Corporation announces the expansion of its energy offerings with a broad range of best-in-class lithium-ion batteries. Delivering greater efficiency and superior capacity retention, Raymond’s lithium-ion batteries hold an ingress protection (IP) rating of 69 and offer 17% productivity improvement over lead-acid batteries to meet the needs of virtually every customer and application.“This launch underscores Raymond’s unmatched understanding of its own trucks, developed through years of testing and continuous learning, which allows us to engineer energy systems around the peak energy requirements demanded by each model,” said Jennifer Lupo, vice president of technology solutions, Toyota Material Handling North America (TMHNA), which includes The Raymond Corporation. “By integrating with Raymond’s asset and data tracking systems, Raymond’s lithium-ion batteries give customers real-time insights to proactively manage energy consumption, help reduce downtime and meet sustainability goals.”The ecosystem of truck, battery and charger is critical for active truck control — not only purpose-built but also right-sized for the specific application. Beyond truck energy requirements, harmonized components create a more intelligent, efficient and responsive environment that enhances overall operational performance.This product expansion reflects the continued innovation across TMHNA, which operationally unites and supports the strengths of both Raymond® and Toyota® brands to deliver integrated energy solutions.Powered by lithium iron phosphate, the batteries are easily deployable with a drop-in design for your Raymond fleet and compatible with high-frequency lithium-ion battery chargers from Energy Essentials Distributed by Raymond® batteries. The batteries also: Enhance productivity with long run-times, fast charging and convenient opportunity charging. Reduce energy and operating costs with more energy-efficient solutions and less need for spare batteries or lift trucks. Minimize maintenance costs with a completely sealed design that eliminates the need for watering, equalizing and cleaning. Run multiple shifts in captive cold applications with a robust solution with internal thermal management that provides long-lasting, durable performance. Operate more sustainably and responsibly with cleaner, greener technologies. Optimize lift truck performance with 24-, 36- and 48-volt options. Work more securely and confidently with UL® 2580 listed batteries, tested and certified for durability and dependability. Integrate with Energy Asset Manager, allowing access to battery performance data from anywhere in a facility and enabling proactive energy management to reduce downtime. “We work hand in hand with customers who have advanced energy needs to understand what solutions would be best to help improve productivity and enhance efficiency in their operations,” said Christine Edwards, senior manager of energy product solutions, The Raymond Corporation. “Our teams work with them to understand their data and turn it into actionable insights to move their business forward. It’s not about solving today’s challenges but anticipating tomorrow’s opportunities.”To learn more about Raymond’s portfolio of energy solutions or conducting a power study to identify the best energy source and capacity for your operation, contact your local Raymond Solutions and Support Center, or visit www.raymondcorp.com.Discover how lithium-ion power affects lift truck productivity in Raymond’s latest power source research by visiting www.raymondcorp.com/PowerChoice.About The Raymond Corporation The Raymond Corporation, a member of the Toyota Industries family of companies, is a leading global provider of best-in-class material handling products and intelligent intralogistics solutions. Built on principles of innovation and continuous improvement for over 100 years, Raymond’s integrated automation, telematics, virtual reality and advanced energy solutions provide ways to optimize operations and bring warehouse and distribution operations to a new level of performance. Raymond® electric forklift trucks are engineered to achieve increased productivity and efficiency and are designed to provide ecological and economic benefits. Raymond delivers solutions to material handling and logistics markets in North America and globally. Combining operational excellence, award-winning innovation and world-class global customer support, we work together to run better, manage smarter and keep our customers always on. For more information, visit raymondcorp.com and follow us on Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn.Energy Essentials Distributed by Raymond®, iWAREHOUSE® and Raymond® are U.S. trademarks of The Raymond Corporation. Toyota® is a registered trademark of Toyota Motor Corporation. UL® is a registered trademark of UL LLC.©2025 The Raymond Corporation. All rights reserved.ContactElizabeth BuzaThe Raymond Corporationelizabeth.buza@raymondcorp.com607-343-0845
July 31, 2025 - Hamilton Caster, a 118-year-old leading manufacturer of heavy-duty industrial casters, wheels, and material handling solutions, introduces its new Drive Wheel Series. For decades, Hamilton has been providing wheels with keyed shafts for thousands of industrial drive system applications. The existing high volume, combined with the higher demand caused by growth in industrial automation, has precipitated the establishment of a new comprehensive product offering. This new series delivers the same proven durability and performance in an easy-to-specify format requiring less effort and shorter lead times.“By pre-engineering and offering our most popular drive wheel configurations, we’re giving our customers faster access to high-performance wheels that are still built to Hamilton’s industry-leading standards,” said Mark Lippert, President at Hamilton Caster. “At the same time, we’re continuing to offer fully custom solutions for unique applications.”Available in diameters ranging from 4" to 12", Hamilton drive wheels are designed with extra-large hubs to endure the most demanding industrial applications.The new Drive Wheel Series features three wheel types, each available in a range of diameters, and keyway sizes, and even includes two set screws for secure mounting: Duralast® Wheels – Featuring a durable, liquid-cast polyurethane tread chemically bonded to an iron core, Duralast® provides excellent traction, wear resistance, and floor protection—ideal for drive applications requiring quiet, cushioned rolling. Single Flange Track Wheels – Built from steel or cast iron and designed to run on flat track systems, these wheels offer guided directional control and are commonly used in rail-based systems or production-line setups. V-Grooved Wheels – Machined to run on inverted angle iron, these wheels provide consistent tracking and are self-cleaning by design. A partial flat tread allows smooth rolling on flat surfaces when needed.Whether you’re designing new drive wheel applications or need replacements, Hamilton’s new drive wheel product offering is designed to meet the most common industrial specs while still offering room for customization when needed.“We’re excited to bring our customers a standard drive wheel series that offers the same Hamilton toughness they rely on—now with faster availability,” added Lippert. “It’s a smarter way to spec a drive wheel—built for longevity, backed by strength, and ready for action.”Visit the Drive Wheel Landing Page to explore the lineup, view technical specs, and find the right fit for your application.ContactJodi FritschDirector of MarketingJodi.Fritsch@HamiltonCaster.comHamilton Caster & Mfg. Co.www.HamiltonCaster.comwww.CartsAndTrailers.com
Greer, SC—Creform Corporation, a manufacturer of unique products for the design and building of material handling structures and automated guided vehicles, has designed a five-level shelf cart for an aerospace parts manufacturer’s facility.The five-level cart helps improve the user’s workflow efficiency and helps minimize downtime by ensuring all necessary components are easily accessible and simplifies restocking and inventory tracking by centralizing items in a designated location.This cart features five lightweight corrugated plastic shelves supported by Creform pipes and includes custom foam cutouts to provide product stability and protection while the cart is in motion. The number of levels enhances organization of tools, components, and materials neatly at the point-of-use area. The adjustable shelves can also be set to ergonomic heights for associates and helps reduce the likelihood of errors or defects in the assembly process by keeping parts clean, organized, and ready for use.The cart’s dimensions are 58" L x 40" W x 63" T and is designed to hold up to 800 lb. The unit is constructed with Creform 28mm white gray color pipe and black metal joints. Creform shelf carts allow users to create tailored solutions that fit their specific needs, whether it's size, number of shelves, or additional features.The cart features four swivel casters and two fixed ergonomic casters that provide for easy rolling, positioning and maneuverability. The swivel casters at the corners ensure stability and allow the cart to be pushed down aisles but also easily moved laterally.The lightweight and portable, yet robust Creform cart can be moved from the kitting area to the point of assembly. Other alternative uses besides kitting are assembly line support and order picking. The cart’s versatility is suitable for manufacturing or warehouse environments and is excellent for small component storage.As with all Creform carts, higher capacity and custom cart sizes and configurations are possible with the Creform system of 28 mm and 42 mm plastic coated steel pipes and metal joints. They can be configured for ESD (anti-static) applications. The modular nature of Creform carts provides added value and ensures that if there is any damage or worn components replacement parts are readily available.Although the cart pictured is white gray, a wide variety of pipe color options are available, and upgrade hitches are available for AGV delivery. Accessories include hooks, labels as well as writing surfaces with clip boards to name a few. Creform carts are available as a kit, assembled structure or in component form for a complete DIY solution.Creform provides solutions for dynamic material handling needs in the ever-evolving landscape of manufacturing. As pioneers in adaptive systems, Creform empowers companies to seamlessly integrate continuous improvement methodologies like Kaizen, 5S, and lean manufacturing principles. From pipe and joint structures to gravity roller conveyors and cutting-edge AGV technology, Creform helps optimize efficiency across various applications. Whether it is streamlining workflow with flow racks and workstations or enhancing mobility with agile carts and AGVs, Creform solutions are tailored to elevate operational performance.ContactCreform CorporationSCsales@creform.com800.839.8823www.creform.comBG Edwardsbg.edwards@creform.com
Minneapolis, MN – March 17, 2025 – 9 a.m. ET – Dane Technologies, a leader in designing and manufacturing autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and power assist solutions, and Brain Corp, the autonomous technology company creating transformative solutions in robotics and AI, today announced the launch of the Dane AiR™ DC, an autonomous mobile robot built to revolutionize inventory management within distribution centers and warehouses. Engineered to deliver inventory visibility with unmatched speed, accuracy, and efficiency, the Dane AiR™ DC provides a smart, scalable solution for inventory management.The manual inventory process used in distribution centers, warehouses, or manufacturing environments can be time-consuming, expensive, and prone to error. The Dane AiR™ DC transforms this manual process into a fully autonomous, AI-powered solution, designed to deliver value in any warehouse. The Dane AiR™ DC delivers faster cycle counts with greater data accuracy, and significantly lower operating costs.“Inefficient Inventory processes have a direct impact on the bottom line,” said Dan Johnson, CEO of Dane Technologies. “The Dane AiR™ DC fully automates the inventory process, delivering accurate and timely data, as well as actionable insights. Those insights drive process improvements at the site and potentially throughout the supply chain. Dane AiR DC helps any warehouse increase process efficiencies and lower operating costs. Those savings combine to deliver a very compelling return on investment.”Key Benefits Include:• Automated inventory tracking at pallet and case levels for complete inventory visibility• Advanced scanning technology with computer vision, RFID, and barcode scanning pallets or items in racks up to 38 feet, as well as bulk storage.• Barcode reading accuracy of 99.5%+ using best-in-class Cognex technology• Simple data integration with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)• Next-gen autonomous navigation powered by BrainOS® for proven, dependable, and safe autonomous operation in dynamic warehouse spaces• Maximized uptime with 10-hour battery run time and fully autonomous 4-hour recharge• High-efficiency scanning, covering over 200,000 square feet in under eight hours• Accelerated ROI with fast and cost-effective implementationFor warehouse and distribution center operators exploring automation, the Dane AiR™ DC offers a seamless, plug-and-play solution—unlike drones, which require specialized infrastructure, have runtime limitations and face flight restrictions, or other robotic solutions that are large, very complex, and have significant operating expenses. Built on the same platform as the Dane AiR™—the robotic inventory scanning solution for retail—its compact design enables precise navigation in dynamic environments, with minimal disruption to existing workflows. Powered by the next-generation BrainOS® Robotics Platform, which has logged over 20 million autonomous operating hours across more than 40,000 robots, the Dane AiR™ DC delivers the performance, reliability, and scalability required for real-world warehouse operations.“Warehouses today face mounting pressure to optimize productivity while maintaining accuracy,” said Mark Garczewski, Vice President of Product at Brain Corp. “The Dane AiR™ DC with BrainOS® brings a new level of digital precision to inventory management, providing visibility and ground truth that empowers teams to work smarter and bridge the gap between the physical and digital supply chain.”Dane Technologies and Brain Corp to Demo Dane AiR™ DC at ProMat 2025Dane Technologies and Brain Corp will showcase the Dane AiR™ DC at ProMat 2025, taking place March 17-20 at booth N7544. Attendees will have the opportunity to see the autonomous inventory scanning robot in action, and learn how it can streamline warehouse operations, enhance efficiency, and drive smarter inventory management.For more information, please visit here.About Dane TechnologiesDane Technologies was founded in 1996 to help retailers address the safety and productivity challenges in their workplace. Dane’s first solution automated the process of returning shopping carts to retail stores, delivering dramatically increased efficiency and reducing the risk of injury. Working together with their clients, Dane Technologies has grown from that single product to become one of the most trusted names in ergologistic solutions – serving clients in retail, manufacturing, distribution, transportation, and healthcare environments around the world. Learn more at danetechnologies.com.About Brain CorpBrain Corp is the global leader in robotic AI software that powers the largest fleet of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) operating in commercial public spaces. Global OEM partners use the company's cloud-connected platform, BrainOS®, to create scalable, self-driving robots that are used by end customers to clean floors and sense environmental data - turning manual operations into automated workflows. Fortune 500 brands across multiple verticals benefit from the growing portfolio of BrainOS®-powered robots and our industry-leading privacy, safety and efficiency tools that make managing and scaling automation easier. Brain Corp currently powers more than 40,000 AMRs, representing the largest fleet of its kind in the world. Learn more at www.braincorp.com.ContactSarah ScarlataMatter Communications for Dane Technologies and Brain Corp NABrainCorp@matternow.com
In the dynamic world of material handling, where the efficiency and safety of operations hinge on the reliability of equipment, the often-overlooked heroes are the casters and wheels. Both play a pivotal role in the seamless movement of loads through industrial environments, yet the intricacies of selecting the right ones are often underestimated.Before you add to cart consider these common mistakes to avoid.Ignoring Load Limits: The Pitfalls of Overlooking Capacity RequirementsExceeding the recommended load capacity of casters can result in premature wear, damage, and failure. Most loads don't maintain an even weightacross the length and width of the platform. An off-center load could overload even the most durable casters. If a caster fails due to excessive weight, it can potentially cause injuries to workers and damage to products or infrastructure.It's crucial to accurately assess load requirements and choose casters that can accommodate the appropriate load capacity (including the weight of your cart!) Pro Tip: For optimal load distribution and safety, the common mistake of dividing the load capacity by 4 overlooks crucial factors. Instead, we advise dividing by 3 to account for potential uneven floors and to ensure stability. There are two reasons for this: First, on uneven surfaces, 3 or fewer casters bear a greater load, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the load can be adequately supported by 3 casters for operator safety and equipment integrity.Second, unpredictable load distribution necessitates planning for potential shifts, whether due to floor irregularities or weight imbalances. Adjusting the load rating accordingly ensures a proactive approach to prevent potential issues.Material Mismatch: Why the Right Wheel Matters for Your EnvironmentWheels are used in material handling because they significantly reduce the force required to move an object. Think about the force needed to push a heavy box across a floor. Static friction demands a specific applied force to initiate motion, and once in motion, dynamic friction insists on a consistent force to sustain it. The person exerting the force encounters a delicate balance: their applied force against the friction force generated by the box's weight and the floor. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the factors that impact caster performance.Will it navigate rough or uneven floor conditions? Is floor protection a priority? Does noise or speed play a role? Will the wheel be subjected to washdown or high-heat applications? These are the questions that guide the meticulous selection of the right caster and wheel.The complexities within polyurethane wheels alone can create paralysis in selecting the right type. Add in metal, nylon, rubber, and pneumatic, and it becomes even more crucial to comprehend the environment the wheel will be working in. Choosing caster materials unsuitable for the environment can have a significant impact on rolling resistance, triggering a waterfall effect of potential issues including compromised performance and durability, premature wear, failure, and a more strenuous work environment.Pro Tip: Casters and wheels come in various shapes, sizes, and materials to match unique performance requirements. Some roll-on tracks and temperatures up to 500F. Others bear 40,000-pound loads inside and outside the factory. Gather application data and choose an industrial caster/wheel manufacturer (or distributor) that you trust to help you select the right caster. Taking these extra steps will prevent headaches down the road. RELATED: Casters, Wheels, and Accessories GuideMaintaining Momentum: Why Speed Matters Most casters are rated for walking speed (3-5 mph), but sometimes the need for speed extends beyond this. Faster speeds require a caster that can not only withstand the increased velocity but also the increased severity of impacts. When towing loads at accelerated paces, it becomes imperative to assess not only the wheel material but the bearing type as well.Precision ball bearings can typically handle higher speeds and radial forces. These bearings are best for manual applications due to lower start-up forces. Wheels used in towing applications benefit from tapered wheel bearings as they run at higher speeds and encounter turns under load. These bearings are best for side load conditions as well as higher industrial speeds. Pushing the speed boundaries requires casters that can keep up without compromising performance or safety.Pro Tip: Larger wheel diameters and axles, more robust swivel construction, and bearing selection are critical components that enhance casters' overall performance and endurance at higher speeds. Overlooking Safety Standards: Don’t Put Your Workplace at RiskAccording to the Spine Research Institute at The Ohio State University, over 1.3 billion people suffer from musculoskeletal disorders that lead to low back, neck, shoulder, and other joint pain. While the causal pathways of these disorders are influenced by a multitude of factors, the workplace environment is a consideration.Adhering to safety standards ensures casters used in material handling meet specific load capacity, durability, and design criteria. This compliance is directly tied to workplace safety, reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, and damage to both personnel and property. Following safety standards helps create a safer working environment by ensuring casters can withstand the demands of the application.Pro Tip: Ask if the manufacturer is a member of the Institute of Caster and Wheel Manufacturers (ICWM), a Material Handling Institute (MHI) subgroup. Members are committed to safety and must adhere to certain criteria such as the American National Standard ANSI ICWM-2018, Vocabulary, Performance, and Testing Requirements for Casters and Wheels. This Standard is intended to guide owners, users, designers, purchasers, and/or specifiers of material handling equipment or systems.Neglecting Maintenance: The Silent Killer of Caster LongevityAccording to Forbes, unplanned/unscheduled downtime represents one of the costliest events at any manufacturing plant. Specific to casters, failing to perform regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubrication, can lead to the accumulation of foreign objects and debris on caster components. This accelerates wear and tear, shortening the lifespan of the casters and increasing the risk of failure and unplanned downtime.Alternatively, planned downtime is a proactive approach to preventing breakdowns, and the build-up of contaminants within your caster to prolong the life of your equipment. Should you be using a caster that is not maintenance-free, it is important to implement a routine maintenance schedule that includes cleaning, inspection, and lubrication of caster components. Pro Tip: Have you considered maintenance-free casters? These casters minimize downtime and reduce maintenance costs by eliminating the need for lubrication or regular upkeep. Featuring sealed precision bearings and durable construction, they provide consistent performance, enhanced safety, and cleaner operation. Perfect for lean manufacturing, automated systems, and industries like aerospace, automotive manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, electronics assembly, cleanrooms, and renewable energy.As we understand the pitfalls explored above, it becomes evident that the right caster choice is not just about functionality but a commitment to safety, efficiency, and longevity. So, before you proceed with your next caster purchase, remember the cardinal rules: respect load limits, choose materials wisely, embrace routine maintenance, adhere to safety standards, and consider the often-underestimated factor – velocity. Each decision contributes to a chain reaction of reliability and performance in the workplace.Never consider casters and wheels a commodity; rather consider them the foundation of a safe, efficient, and enduring material handling environment.For more information visit hamiltoncaster.com or www.mhi.org/icwm.
When a machinery manufacturer making microchips needed a device to precisely position parts in a clean room test situation, the EMH AL System™ Aluminum Crane with motorized Low Headroom End Trucks provided the ideal solution. Since completion, the customer could not be more pleased with the installation. The machine manufacturer has already contracted for a second EMH AL System.
An industry leading advanced electronic monitoring and security systems manufacturer developed a need to create a clean room in addition to more storage space. The custom solution would include an IT clean room and storage space. The mezzanine structure created a unique enclosed space below for the IT clean room.
