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New president & CEO, division heads underscore Murata Machinery USA’s continued commitment to innovation, customer success, and strategic growth across its North American operationsCharlotte, NC – (Nov. 5, 2025) Murata Machinery USA, Inc. (Muratec USA), a world-class industrial automation leader and manufacturing industry pioneer, announces key leadership changes. Keiji Yuasa is President and CEO of Muratec USA, effective Oct. 1, 2025.Yuasa brings more than two decades of global leadership experience and operational expertise developed during his tenure with Murata Machinery. Since joining the company in 2005, he has served as Managing Director of Murata Singapore Pte. Ltd. and in Corporate Planning in Human Resources Japan, where he cultivated strong relationships with leaders across multiple business divisions.Yuasa succeeds Toshiyuki Komori, who served as Muratec USA’s president and CEO for four and a half years. Komori has returned to Muratec USA’s parent company, Murata Machinery Ltd. (MML) of Kyoto, Japan, as Executive Sales Manager for Turning in MML’s Machine Tools Division.“I am honored to lead Murata Machinery USA at such an exciting time,” Yuasa said. “Building on our proud legacy of innovation and excellence, we remain committed to advancing Muratec’s end-to-end automation solutions and driving sustainable growth across all divisions—empowering our customers to enhance efficiency, competitiveness, and long-term success throughout North America.”New Leadership in Two DivisionsMuratec USA also announces other leadership changes at the division level. In the Textiles Division, Chuck Butts has been appointed director of operations, effective Oct. 1, 2025. Long-time Director of Operations David Stalvey, a 37-year veteran of Muratec USA, will remain with the company as textiles advisor.With over 30 years of experience at Murata Machinery USA’s Textile Division, Butts has developed unmatched expertise and leadership through roles that have spanned from field technician to sales manager. As Director of Operations, he now guides the division with vision and continuity while actively supporting the industry through his involvement with the National Council of Textile Organizations and the Southern Textile Association Board of Governors.Muratec USA’s Logistics and Automation (L&A) Division has named Kazuyuki Uratani as general manager, effective Nov. 3, 2025. Masatoshi Wakabayashi, former General Manager of L&A, will continue to serve the division as executive director.In his new advisory role, Wakabayashi will leverage more than 30 years of global leadership experience within the Muratec Group to guide and support Muratec USA’s continued advancement in automation solutions.Uratani, who joined MML in 1992, has dedicated over 33 years to the L&A Division, leading Factory Automation sales since 2018 and driving growth through major projects, including partnerships in the EV battery industry. In his new role, Uratani aims to achieve sustainable growth for Muratec USA’s L&A Division and strengthen its North American presence by leveraging his extensive leadership, strategic planning, and material handling expertise.A Legacy of Innovation in Industrial Automation2025 marks the 90th anniversary of Murata Machinery Ltd.’s leadership in automation innovation. In May 1974, the company established Murata of America, Inc. in Charlotte, NC, initially focusing on textile machinery.Muratec USA now offers a comprehensive portfolio of advanced automation solutions across North America through its four divisions: Logistics & Automation, Machine Tools (Turning and Fabrication), Clean Factory Automation, and Textile Machinery, enabling industries to enhance productivity, efficiency, and operational excellence.“Muratec USA remains committed to advancing industrial automation and manufacturing excellence across North America,” concluded Yuasa. “With Mr. Uratani leading our L&A Division and Mr. Butts guiding our Textile Division, I am confident in our full leadership team across all divisions to continue strengthening Muratec’s legacy of innovation, efficiency, and customer-focused solutions, delivering long-term value and industry leadership.”To learn more about Muratec USA, visit https://www.muratec-usa.com/About Murata Machinery USA, Inc. Murata Machinery USA, Inc. (Muratec USA) is a subsidiary of Murata Machinery Ltd., a pioneer and world leader in high-speed, automated turning and fabrication, logistics & material handling automation, clean factory automation, and textile machinery. Established in 1935, Murata Machinery is the sole manufacturer of Muratec brand machinery and systems that support North American manufacturing and logistics companies across regional and global supply chains, accelerating their competitive edge through integrated automation. Manufacturing for half a century with thousands of installations worldwide and first-to-market innovations, Muratec is trusted by leading global brands and suppliers. Each solution uses time-tested technology and is customized to meet customers' exact needs with flexibility and personalized support provided for the life of the system. For more information, visit https://www.muratec-usa.com/.ContactCharles WisniowskiStrategic MarCom Lead704.394.8331, ext. 1316charles.wisniowski@muratec-usa.com
Des Plaines, Illinois – October 15, 2025: NOBLELIFT North America is proud to announce the launch of the ALPHA Series Pneumatic Forklifts, marking the first time in the industry that a single forklift platform has been purpose-built for both lithium-ion (ALPHA 50–60 Li) and LPG (ALPHA 50–60 LPG) power options. The ALPHA Series represents a major step forward in design efficiency, serviceability, and long-term value for indoor and outdoor operations.“Creating a forklift series that is essentially the same with the exception of how it is powered is exactly the kind of innovation and future-focused engineering you should expect from NOBLELIFT,” said Bill Pedriana, President of NOBLELIFT North America. “The ALPHA Series allows customers to choose the power source that best fits their operation, without sacrificing performance, comfort, familiarity or parts compatibility with other trucks in their fleet.”Built Tough—Powered Your Way The ALPHA 50–60 Li (5,000–6,000 lbs. capacity) delivers quiet, zero-emission performance powered by NOBLELIFT’s advanced LiFePO4 lithium-ion battery system. Designed with a heavy-duty steel chassis, mast, and axles comparable to an internal combustion truck, the lithium version combines power and durability with clean, low-maintenance operation and an onboard charger for rental fleet applications.The ALPHA 50–60 LPG offers the same rugged construction, ergonomic design, and component layout—powered instead by a Kubota 56.2 HP/2,600 rpm LPG engine. Because both models share the same core architecture, parts inventory and service requirements are significantly simplified, reducing total cost of ownership for customers and distributors alike.Future lithium conversion kits will present the opportunity for ALPHA LP forklifts to be upgraded to lithium power, which can significantly extend the operational life of the truck for those that are not ready to move to electric machines today.Key Features Across Both Models Heavy-duty steel chassis and cast axles for maximum stability 4-Way hydraulics to carriage On-demand Fully Hydrostatic Power Steering (FHPS) for smooth control Integrated side shift for precision load placement Intelligent buffering to protect the ground and cargo from damage while forks descend Multi-function Eye-Level LCD Display showing load weight, height, steering angle, speed, system diagnostics, and more Operator Presence System (OPS) that locks hydraulics and travel when operator leaves seat LED lighting suite (headlights, signals, blue safety light, strobe, and rear work light) for superior visibility Rear grab bar with horn Tilt cylinder boots to protect tilt cylinder and oil seals from the environment Ergonomic operator compartment, with adjustable steering column, and deluxe suspension seat to reduce fatigueLithium Technology AdvantagesThe ALPHA 50–60 Li uses LiFePO4 chemistry, the safest and longest-lasting lithium technology available. Each battery features a Battery Management System (BMS), thermal management, and automotive-grade high-voltage controls. The lithium system is maintenance-free, fully charges in 2–3 hours and supports opportunity charging during breaks to enable continuous multi-shift operation. NOBLELIFT backs the lithium battery cells with a 10-year or 20,000-hour warranty.Proven LPG PowerThe ALPHA 50–60 LPG delivers the same ALPHA platform performance using Kubota’s proven LPG engine for facilities that prefer internal combustion power. A swing-out tank mount ensures easy refueling access, while shared components and design continuity streamline fleet management.ApplicationsThe ALPHA Series is purpose-built for demanding environments including: Manufacturing & Production Building Materials & Construction Supply Warehousing, Distribution & Logistics Lumber, Metal & Heavy Industrial Products Freight Terminals & Cross-DockingFor more information, visit www.nobleliftna.com/alpha-50-60-li-lithium or www.nobleliftna.com/alpha-50-60-lpg.About NOBLELIFT North AmericaNOBLELIFT® North America is a global leader in Lithium technology. We manufacture a comprehensive range of high-performance, low-maintenance manual, electric, and internal combustion equipment with more than 200 categories and around 30 series of each product. Our products are designed to meet different application demands and are well accepted by our customers in more than 100 countries and regions in Europe, America, Asia, Africa and more. Products include: sit-down forklifts, rough terrain forklifts, narrow aisle forklifts, walkie-stackers, order pickers, electric pallet trucks, scissor lifts, tuggers/tow tractors, scrubbers, sweepers, automated guided vehicles (AGV’s), lift tables, manual pallet jacks and more. Noblelift® North America builds tough, durable products that deliver high productivity, low total cost of ownership, easy serviceability, and advanced ergonomic features; accompanied by outstanding parts, service, and training support. We are Noble. Expect More! For more information about our company and our products, visit www.nobleliftna.com or follow us on social media.ContactNOBLELIFT® North America847-595-7100Sparky PowellDirector of Marketingsparky@nobleliftna.com
Electric drives in industrial applications consume up to 70 percent of the total energy required, creating great potential for optimization. NORD DRIVESYSTEMS meets these demands with a range of powerful, energy-saving electric motors including asynchronous, synchronous, explosion protected, and smooth body versions. These motors are built in-house for high availability, deliver high-efficiency, and meet all common global efficiency regulations and standards. Thanks to the modular design, they are compatible with the full NORD gear unit and variable frequency drive portfolio and can also be used as stand-alone motors.NORD motors are constructed with superior insulating methods to provide excellent moisture protection, low temperature rise, and voltage spike resistance in accordance with NEMA MG 1. Low rotor inertia and high starting torque allow peak performance in difficult applications involving high start/stop cycling rates or rapid acceleration/deceleration. Standard motors offer protection from the elements and include design benefits such as shaft lip seals on both ends of the motor shafts, stator to endbell connections sealed to exclude moisture, double coated magnetic wire insulation, corrosion resistant alloy materials, threaded cable entry holes, and more. While standard features address the most common requirements, there are many additional selections to configure NORD motors to meet system requirements.NORD produces four different lines of three-phase asynchronous motors with a power range of 0.16 – 75 hp for operation in a wide variety of applications. While smooth-body motors are ideal for hygienic wash-down environments like the food and beverage industry, two-speed and single-phase motors provide the necessary power for machine tools, pumps, conveyor belts, and fans, and standard three-phase motors offer unmatched protection against electrical and mechanical overload in countless applications. In the standard power range, IE3 motors retain the same overall dimensions as lower efficiency motors for easy drop-in replacement when switching efficiency classes.Smooth surface motors offer a wash-down design suitable for the food and beverage industry, pharmaceuticals, dairy, bottling, and other hygienic applications. Their aluminum alloy housing provides an inherent resistance to corrosion and thanks to the smooth surface, particles have no ridges or cavities to cling to, making them easy to remove during cleaning. The product offering includes four continuous duty premium efficient asynchronous motor sizes with a power range of 0.16 – 1.50 hp. Standard benefits include minimum IP66 ingress protection rating, inverter/vector duty wiring and insulation, and moisture-resistant varnished dipped windings. Additional motor options for wash-down systems include brakes, thermal overload protection, space heaters, potted terminal boxes, condensation drain holes, and connectivity solutions.IE5+ synchronous motors from NORD utilize permanent magnets, eliminating the need for an external energy supply to generate the magnetic field and resulting in extremely high efficiency, high-power density, and enabling considerable energy savings to be achieved, especially for continuous duty applications. Unlike other motors, IE5+ motors deliver constant torque and efficiency over a wide speed range, even at partialload operation and low speeds, allowing for system variants to be reduced. Ventilated versions (TEFC) are optimized for intralogistics thanks to their advanced heat dissipation via a finned housing while smooth body versions (TENV) deliver a corrosion resistant option for hygienic environments.NORD additionally offers explosion-proof motors to elevate safety and efficiency of operations in hazardous environments such as those in grain mills, pharmaceuticals, mining, and more that encounter explosive dust or potentially flammable gas atmospheres. Explosion-protected motors for gas atmospheres cover Class I, Division 2, Groups A, B, C, and D while explosion-protected motors for dust atmospheres cover Class II, Division 2, Groups F and G. Available motor sizes range from 63 – 180 and offer a power range of 0.16 – 30 hp.NORD motors are not only powerful and robust, but also feature high gear ratios, toothed motor shafts, and a compact design for space-saving installation. Whether in agitators, conveyor systems, intralogistics, or the food and beverage production, NORD electric motors deliver high performance, reliability, and long service life.About NORD DRIVESYSTEMSWith more than 4,900 employees, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS has been developing, producing, and selling drive technology for over 50 years, and it is a global leader among full-service providers in the industry. In addition to standard drives, NORD delivers application-specific designs and solutions for special requirements, such as energy-saving drives or explosion-protected systems. NORD has subsidiaries and sales partners in 80 countries worldwide. The dense sales and service network guarantees optimal availability, enabling short delivery times, and customer-oriented service. NORD produces a very diverse range of drives for torques from 88 lb-in to more than 2.5 million lb-in, provides motors in the power range of 0.16 – 1,341 hp, and manufactures frequency inverters with the required power electronics of up to 200 hp. Inverter solutions are available for conventional control cabinet installations as well as for decentralized, fully-integrated drive units. Visit nord.com.ContactArielle Spotts608-850-1444arielle.Spotts@nord.com
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
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.
