Truck Mounted Equipment and Trash Rake Systems

Here at Atlas Polar, we take great pride in being able to offer the finest there is when it comes to equipment and this includes our HIAB Sea Cranes.

Tips To Help You Make the Right Purchase for a HIAB Sea Crane
Our HIAB Sea Cranes have been specifically designed as a marine crane for sea use and have been around since the early 1960’s. Ever since, they have been earning their impeccable reputation for being a marine crane that can be relied upon. Their components are comprised of materials that can be trusted to resist corrosion, which is critically important, considering the salt water and harsh environment they are constantly exposed to.

We know this is an important investment for you, and in order to make sure it’s going to do the job, we start by asking some very important questions. This way we know exactly what you’re looking for. The details you provide with tell us which HIAB Sea Crane that you need to get the job done right.
Here’s what we need to know:
- The types and weight of the loads you need to lift.
- The distance from the edge of where the crane would be mounted and how far the crane needs to reach.
- Where you would like to have it mounted and if you require one or two cranes.
- Where the load has to be transported.
- If you need a hoist and what the depth requirements.

This information allows us to determine which model would be the best for you based on three key factors, including capacity, reach, and if you require a hoist. Once this is determined, we can concentrate on the details of the installation itself. We need to determine if it has to be a direct or pedestal mount. Plans have to be made to implement a power source, and this can be done by using a power pack, or as it is sometimes called, a hydraulic power unit. It consists of an electric motor, oil reservoir, filtration, and pump. This ensures there is proper flow and pressure to the crane.

Each crane comes with a remote control valve, and we need to know what the preference is for installing this. The HIAB Sea Crane comes with the HIAB XS drive, which is a standard radio control, but we also offer the option of either a Polar Remote cable or radio remote control system. You can also choose to have the standard valve mounted separately on a pedestal.

In the last five years of our HIAB Sea Crane sales, about 80% were sold with the remote control systems. They are used for all applications and are a great safety feature as they allow the operator to move about, giving him better visualization, creating a safe working atmosphere.

The precise measurement of the deck itself is required for installation, and we would need to figure out if any reinforcement of the deck would be needed. Most vessels are designed for heavy equipment such as this but if the steel of the deck happens to be thin, it will require reinforcement.

There are important factors that a Sea Crane owner needs to know and we like to inform our customers about these. These cranes are able to meet the specified certifications. They are constructed to last and are able to endure the harsh environment they work in. Anti-corrosion is extremely important, and the HIAB Sea Cranes excel in this area with stainless steel and galvanized components being used wherever possible. The heavy duty bolts are plated, and top quality Marine primer and paints are used.

Atlas Polar offers HIAB Sea Cranes ranging from small to large, and the two most popular that are kept in stock are the 121 and the 061 model Sea Cranes. In addition to this, there are several accessories available that make these cranes even more impressive.

Add-ons, such as a hoist and anti-tube block system, are available and there are some options for pedestals or marine bases as well. In addition to these, here at Atlas Polar, we’re especially proud to be able to offer two very important accessories that we have designed. One is the hoist emergency release. In the event there is a power failure and the load needs to be lowered, this add-on will allow for this. Then there is our special pedestal remote control system that easily bolts to the deck and allows the crane to be raised. It can also house the power pack.

If you have any questions about the HIAB Sea Cranes, please leave a comment below.

How To Make the Right Purchase of a Trash Raking System

Trash raking systems are the ideal solution for any water operated facility that wants to increase efficiency and reduce potential hazards to employees.

What Do You Need To Know to Choose the Best Trash Rake Equipment for Your Facility?
The priority for this type of system is not only making sure that you are buying quality, cost efficient equipment, but that it is the right system for your facility. One of the best ways to ensure you are doing this is to know what questions to ask.

The more you know about what your needs are for your facility, the more it will allow you to ask the pertinent questions to help you make a buying decision. You need to know what the equipment is capable of, how it is operated, and its installation.

Do you require this type of water cleaning system?
The first thing to be determined is if, in fact, your particular facility requires a system such as this. If your facility uses high volumes of water for its operation and you require fresh clean water, then you will be able to put one of these systems to good use. It may be that up to this point, you have had to do the work of cleaning your intake screens manually. Not only is this time demanding, but it can create a potential health hazard for your employees. Our systems are designed to work 24/7 and have effectively replaced the old manual winch and cable systems. The Atlas Polar trash raking systems are all designed to remove the debris so it does not get past your water screens to prevent potential damage to your operating equipment and promotes a safer environment for your employees.

Before you start with your questions you will be asked a few questions  in order to guide you towards the best trash raking system that meets the needs at your facility. If you provide us with some photos of your facility it allows us to get a good feel as to the model  of equipment that would be best suited for the job. We need to know the size and depth of the intake. We review the type of debris and its average weight and also look at the type of water flow and rack angle helps us determine the best trash raking model for your facility.

Best questions you can ask
When you are trying to decide which system to go with, you need to base your decision on the experience of the supplier. Here, at Atlas Polar, our experience is based on the fact that we manufacture our own trash raking systems and the designs have been modified over the years based on our customer feedback.  Our credibility is built on the top quality performance and longevity of our equipment that is in operation.

You need answers to questions like…
- The method of operation, whether it is manual or automated, and levels of automation. We offer both types of flexible automation such as the use of time or calendar scheduling. We believe the most efficient is the level differential method. This works by measuring the water pressure on both sides of the racks, then comparing the data. Data is gathered as to the amount of debris that is present in the screen and the built in sensors then create an alert to the operator that a cleaning is required. Automatic cleaning of the intake is then triggered.
- You need to know the types of methods that can be used for starting the equipment and the efficiency it possesses for cycle times, and also how many units you will need.
- How capable is the equipment going to be in the different seasons, particularly your peak periods.
- What happens to the debris that is removed? What are the options for disposal of this waste? It is important to have a fast and efficient method in place and we believe the conveyance options ensure there is no cycle down time, which some of the other disposal methods can create.
- You need to ask questions that pertain to the hydraulic systems and what kind of safety features are built into the equipment. By not having the hydraulic systems immersed into the water, it eliminates the dangers associated with spills and leakage. There also must be a built in safety system as a backup precaution. Plus, you want to know that the equipment you will be using is capable of running on bio-degradable hydraulic oil.
- You may have questions or concerns about the lift capacity, and here you can rely on the experience of our representatives who will be familiar with the needs of your facility based on their involvement with similar facilities and environments.
- Questions concerning cycle time are important to you especially for your peak season. You need to know whether you will need additional units during this time. The focus has to be on the efficiency of your water flow, and methods that are in place to maximize cleaning.

What can Atlas Polar Offer?
You need to know that you have options with different models depending on your requirements. We offer four different models of Hydrorake trash rake systems that are suited for almost any type of facility. A good example would be for a hydro electric facility where either our single boom model or the DT9300 unit would be the best choice depending on the size of the facility.

If you have any questions regarding trash raking systems, we would be happy to answer them. Just post them here.

These cement truck mounted conveyer systems are capable of discharging between 38 to 51 feet depending on the model. For over 30 years, we have been manufacturing and distributing this concrete conveyor and we are pleased with its continuous growth in popularity and success. We feel that there are five important areas that your operators must be well versed in.

Confidence in the equipment they are using
You can count on the performance and durability of this equipment just as you can with the Moffett forklift equipment, as they were both originally designed by the same inventor, Robert Moffett.

Knowing what makes the Mixveyor concrete conveyer perform at its best
Operators who are really tuned in to what all the components are on the conveyor will easily be able to identify when something is needs repair or maintenance. They can then pass specific information along to the repair department by identifying where the problem is and what part is being affected. This allows for more efficient repairs and expedites ordering of parts needed. Potential problems are identified early which could prevent more serious problems and job time delays.

Every operator of this type of equipment feels much more secure when they know what they are working with. Out of the three models of the Atlas Polar Mixveyors, the 51ft. is the most popular. Operators being trained by us will become totally familiar with the boom systems that are on the trucks. The conveyors are mounted onto the swing arm that is attached to the rear section of the truck. The various components that will be discussed during the training will include the cylinders, safety valves, bearing connection points, rollers, grease bearing pivot points, pins and the drive head pulley.

Operators pre inspection routine
We feel that your operators should be able to follow a consistent routine when it comes to pre-operation inspection. This should take place before they leave the yard. When your operators have completed their training with us they are going to know how to do a proper walk around inspection, checking for hydraulic leaks and confirming that pins and keepers are in place. They will also be able to do a full visual check on the underside of the boom which can’t be done when the booms are extended. Once staff are working at the site they will also be comfortable with doing their inspections while the equipment is operating.

Another great asset to this equipment is the Atlas Polar Radio control system. This is a system that is supplied on all of our Mixveyor equipment here at Atlas Polar. Your operators will be fully trained in the use and inspection of the system. This radio controlled system is a resource that eliminates the old method of manual control. Operators who make the best use of this system find it lets them have a full view while the equipment is operating, and it works great in any type of work environment.

Safety is a priority
Our emphasis here is to make sure the operators remain alert and aware of their surroundings. Important factors such as overhead wires, solid ground for setup, and having control of the people in the area is fully reviewed. We want to know our training instills the importance of avoiding any incident which includes injuries and damage to the equipment.

Maintenance
We feel it’s important for the operators to know that in order to do a proper inspection, their equipment has to be clean. Also, daily greasing of the equipment either before or after use will help to prevent wear and tear.

We feel that all of these main points that are covered in our one day concrete conveyer training course make for a great foundation for your operators to build their skills and increase their performance levels. Add to this your responsibilities as the owner, to make sure that regular maintenance is performed and the repairs are kept on top of, you should find that you are getting the best that this equipment has to offer.

We would be happy to hear any comments that you may have or answer any questions you need answers to.

With the Moffett truck mounted forklifts having all wheel drive and locking differential, plus 10 to 12 inches ground clearance, there isn’t much that the Canadian winters can throw at it, that it can’t handle. Some owners have even installed a shovel on the forks for some quick snow removal jobs.

For great winter Moffett forklift performance, it’s important to keep up with the required maintenance and get it ready for winter. Here are some winter guidelines to help you keep your forklift running like a charm during the cold weather.

Moffett forklift engine heaters:

As with most of the equipment here at Atlas Polar, they come with the standard 110 volt block heater. All it takes is a long extension cord and plugging it into a standard household receptacle. Starting the forklift up is quick and easy. For added protection it’s a good idea to store the forklift indoors during the winter months. This way it’s shielded from the elements, and when you need to use it there shouldn’t be any problems starting it.

Another good choice for easy start up is to use a Diesel Fired Coolant Heater. This independent accessory can be working while you are driving to the job site. While you are driving this heater is powered by a small amount of voltage off the truck battery. This allows the coolant to be circulated through the heater and motor of the Moffett forklift. This type of heating system is great for long hauls, or if you don’t have access to the plug in for the block heater. Plus, another great feature is you can set it to operate off a timer.

Moffett fluids:

To get the best that these forklifts have to offer, it’s a good idea to use a top quality premium hydraulic fluid like Hydrex XV. This fluid has a wide working range, and it reaches viscosity quickly, which helps with an easy start up. It’s economical as well because it has a wide temperature range, so it only needs changing once a year.

We recommend the 10w30 or 5w30 engine oils. We have found that the light oils make it easier to fire up the engine.

Something else that we like to see used in the forklifts is a good quality diesel fuel conditioner. It should have the ability to remove any condensation that may be in the fuel and defreeze fuel lines that may have frozen.

These  forklifts come from Ireland with an additive added to the fuel lines to prevent freezing during the shipping time.

Premium batteries:

Not that long ago, Atlas Polar upgraded all of the Moffett forklift batteries to higher cold amp crank ratings. This really helps with engine start up when the equipment is cold or has been sitting dormant for a period of time.

Important Moffett accessories:

One of the most popular accessories for the Moffett forklifts is the self enclosed cabs. These are safely mounted to the overhead guard and they will provide you with some great protection against the weather. They are spacious and allow for good visibility with their glass enclosure. They have front and rear wipers as well as a built in fan and heater.

All Moffett forklifts come with a seat cover and a water proof container that holds the operator’s manual and a very detailed DVD for the operation and maintenance of the forklifts.

Winter quick tips for operating and maintaining the Moffett forklifts:

All that is really required to make working with the Moffett a breeze in the winter months is:

• Keep up on its 90 day or 200 hour servicing.
• Stay on schedule with its regular maintenance.
• Keep the equipment clean, especially the channels of the carriages.
• Use rust inhibitor oils.
• Remove the key from the ignition to prevent water seepage by allowing the built-in safety latch to close properly.
• When the forklift has started, let it run for a bit to circulate the oil.
• Don’t use the hydraulics until they have warmed up.
• Give the carriage and forks a trial run.
• Ease into the directional pedal.
• Make use of the glow plugs that are a standard feature on these forklifts. These are engaged by a simple twist of the key and are meant to warm up the piston chamber.

Make it a habit to do a circle check:

The circle check only takes a few minutes to carry out and it ensures that the machine is in proper working order, there is no obvious physical damage, and the forks are in prime condition. It’s a great time to check for kinks, stretching, or any type of damage to the chains. All of the lights can be checked and cleaned at this time as well. Just so you don’t miss anything, there is as an easy check sheet you can make use of at the Atlas Polar website. Plus in the operator’s manual there is also a checklist and some great details for greasing the equipment.

If you find that you aren’t using your forklift that much during the winter, you still want it ready to go when it’s needed. You can do this by keeping it charged with a battery charger. As long as you have changed the filters and the hydraulic oil in the fall, and you drain out any condensation to prevent freezing, then you should be good to go.

Something else that you want to keep in mind is when you are cleaning the chains. Some operators like to use a power washer to do this. It’s important that you do get all of the dirt and salt build up out of the chains to keep them in good operating condition, but remember to lubricate them and the carriage slider with a light lubricant afterwards. You may also want to use compressed air or a solvent to ensure that all the water has been removed from the chain links.

Getting and keeping the Moffett forklifts in prime winter condition is really quite easy. Just remember to make sure the machine has had its annual servicing and inspection. You want to be sure that all the structural components and the indicator lamps are all working as they should be.

Please feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions. We’d be happy to help.

At Atlas Polar, we take pride in being able to look after all of our customer’s needs when it comes to equipment . One of the areas that we really feel that we can be helpful is in the financing of the truck mounted equipment that makes your business more productive.

We realize that you may require different purchase options when it comes to what your business needs to operate successfully. This is what has enticed us to put together some great equipment packages based on our client’s individual needs. You may require HIAB crane for an existing truck, or you may need a complete truck crane package. Whatever your equipment package requirements, we’re sure that we can help you out with it.

Now that you know you can get the type of truck mounted package you require, we are also happy to help you with the financing of it. We figured that we could best serve you by putting together three easy financing options. You can choose from a direct purchase, a rent-to-own, or even a short-term rental if that works for you.

Something else you don’t have to worry about either is your location. We make our equipment and services available right across Canada. For example, if you are in Alberta, then our sister company, ARW Truck Equipment Ltd. will be happy to help you. And if Quebec is the place you do business then HIAB Quebec is waiting to take care of you.

If you are new to doing business with us, here at Atlas Polar, you may find it beneficial to know that we have several different divisions with our most well known being our truck mounted equipment division. Then we also have the Hydrorake division and a Polars Remote division. As you can see, we have all your equipment business needs covered. We like to consider ourselves as a one stop shop. The less running around you have to do, the better you can run your business.

We know the time it takes to arrange financing for this type of investment. If you have decided to go with the rent-to-own option then we can do all the financial arranging for this right here, in house at Atlas Polar. Just as our customers put their trust in us, we put our trust in them when it comes to financing. We don’t see the need to pry into your finances or place heavy demands on you by having to produce your financial statements. Not only is this type of financing quick and easy it doesn’t involve your line of credit.

In the line of business that you’re in, we understand that you don’t want to get bogged down with paperwork. That’s why we prefer spending time with our customers in helping them to be productive rather than filling out a bunch of credit papers and waiting days for approval. Even the payment methods we offer are super easy. You just need to give us approval for automatic monthly banking withdrawals and that’s it. Your line of credit isn’t touched and at the end of the rental term, the equipment is yours.

We believe our rent to own financing options for HIAB cranes, Moffett truck mounted forklifts and Multilift hooklifts, are a win-win opportunity for you as the customer, and for us here at Atlas Polar. If you have any questions, please feel free to comment.

As a crane operator or owner, you want to know that you’re meeting the Ontario rules for operating a crane safely, while maximizing your performance. With HIAB Truck Crane training provided by Atlas Polar, you’re going to feel confident in knowing that you or your operators are safe in the handling of your equipment, plus you’re going to get the best performance that the crane has to offer. Let’s take a look at how you can improve your crane performance while achieving accreditation.

Getting familiar with the HIAB Truck Crane

As a Customer of Atlas Polar, you can feel good about your purchase because we make sure you feel comfortable with the equipment’s features and capabilities. Then added to this we offer a half day orientation training to give you a working knowledge of all the technical aspects, safety features, and the performance it is capable of.

Gaining Experience:

You or your operators are going to begin with gaining their experience on the work site. This is where you start to get to know the equipment under the direction of senior operators.

Atlas Polar Training:

As soon as you or your operators have 40 hours of on the job experience under your belt, you’re ready for the one day training and certification that we have waiting for you. All you need to do is book a seat in the next available course. Then it’s simply a matter of showing up with your crane and safety equipment, including a hard hat and safety boots.  This course is only going to take you or your operator off the job for one day, but is going to provide the theory on safety and general operation of the crane.  All operators in training are expected to complete the written, assignment and practical sections that make up the course. The day of training will be simulated as to an average day on the job. At the successful completion of the course, you or your operator will walk away feeling confident and much more productive.

Certification:

Crane operators who meet the criteria of the course are awarded with a diploma to proudly place on your wall, as well as a laminated wallet sized accreditation card to be carried. The certification has no expiry but we like to recommend to you as our client, that you or your operators come back to us every three years for a refresher course.

The Benefits:

Aside from gaining the necessary certification required by law for you and your operators, this training has many other benefits to it, which are really important for you as the crane owner and your operators.

It provides the confidence to operate more efficiently.

You increase productivity through improved knowledge.

You as the company owner, are going to be able to realize the full return on your equipment because you or your operators are confident and capable of using the equipment to its fullest capability.

Reliable training:

Atlas Polar provides training as a customer service so you’re able to have a safe operating system in place and also get the best of what the HIAB Truck Crane is capable of providing. This type of exceptional and detailed training required for certification is offered by us across Canada. The company works in co-operation with Grainmaster Equipment in Manitoba, our sister dealership in Alberta, A.R.W. Truck Equipment, and Falcon Equipment in B.C.

We believe in carrying out this training and certification course in all types of weather keeping in mind that you have to get the job done. We know your crane operators have to provide their services in all types of weather. Completion of this course provides all the necessary requirements for you or your HIAB crane operators to perform their duties in a safe and productive manner.

It provides you with the confidence in knowing that you or your operators are safe in the workplace, and the equipment is being used to its maximum potential.

If this sounds like just what you need to enhance your business, be sure to see our section on our training courses for more information. Also check out our HIAB Truck Crane Training Podcast on iTunes which is all about the training and certification we provide. In the podcast, you’ll hear from both Steve Parr and crane trainer, Stirling Robertson.

Truck mounted equipment distributor Atlas Polar is set to exhibit its range of construction equipment at three different trade shows all over Ontario. In the last week of November, Atlas Polar will be exhibiting its products at the Concrete Precasters Show, the Canadian Home Improvement Show and Construct Canada 2012, held from November 25 to November 30.

The Concrete Precasters Show 2012 will be organized at the Casablanca Winery Inn in Grimsby, Ontario between November 25 and November 27. This is the 22^nd CPA convention in the city that will include exhibitions, general meetings and speaker programs over the three day period. Atlas Polar is set to display its range of construction machinery at the event. Apart from the exhibits, the main feature of this annual event is a tour of the Winona Concrete & Pipe Products Ltd plant.

Atlas Polar will participate in the Canadian Home Improvement Show 2012 at the North Building, Toronto Congress Center. The trade show is organized on November 28 and November 29 for retailers and suppliers in the home improvement sector. The show connects retails and suppliers from across Canada and includes exhibits of building materials, hardware, construction equipment and heavy machinery. This year’s show is also set to include centre stage demonstrations and training sessions.

The supplier will conclude its exhibition spree in Ontario with Construct Canada held in the South Building at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from November 28 to November 30, 2012. The event is held concurrently along with Concrete Canada, DesignTrends and the fifteenth annual HomeBuilder & Renovator Expo.

Moffett forklifts have found use in many industries across the world. They are now being used for transporting automobiles like high end motorcycles and cars for rallies and other events to various venues. UK based transport group WMB (We Move Bikes) is making use of Moffett M4 forklifts to assist with the delivery system of the company.

A pioneer in transporting vehicles in large trucks, WMB conducts road shows across the UK featuring Harley Davidson bikes. Additionally, they are known for distributing heavy cargo like automobiles throughout Europe. To help with its endeavors, WMB has employed two Moffett M4 forklifts to do the heavy duty work.

The M4 forklifts face no trouble carrying heavy and expensive automobiles and loading them into cargo trucks. Providing safe, stable and precise operations, the Moffett M4 provides superior performance. With its high power engines and stable handling of heavy vehicles, it comes as no surprise that the Moffett M4 is a favorite with companies like WMB.

WMB regularly hosts Harley Davidson road shows and gets to the event on time, thanks to the speedy and firm load handling of the M4. In fact, WMB showed off the prowess of the Moffett M4 by loading 28 bikes into the cargo truck in astonishingly short time! Take a look at the Video that they did and was posted on Youtube. An impressive feat achieved by the M4, the forklift provides a quick and sturdy support when loading Harley Davidson bikes. Effortless in handling as well as power consumption, the Moffett M4 is a cost effective and energy efficient addition to any company’s heavy machinery arsenal.

 

 

In mid-September 2012, Moffett crossed an important production milestone after rolling out the 50,000th Moffett truck-mounted forklift. The assembly line of the Ireland plant at Dundalk produced this landmark forklift. For the last forty years, the Moffett truck mounted forklift has seen great innovation and development in the transport industry.

Over the decades, the truck mounted forklift from Moffett has enabled quicker deliveries and safe transportation for small and large companies all over the world. The Moffett truck mounted forklifts are useful in many other areas than just transportation, making them a worthy accessory for all companies. A unique feature of the Moffett forklift is its off-road capability. Moffett’s M-range forklifts have been constantly refined and fine tuned over the years of excellent performance and reliable service.

The M-range was recently expanded to the E-range that will soon be launched by early next year. The E-range consists of the first truck mounted forklift in the world that is powered by a Li-ion battery, making it an environmentally sound machine. The zero emission range of forklifts from Moffett is suitable for outdoor and indoor use and possesses excellent capabilities. The E-range forklift is energy efficient and meets all standards of minimizing noise pollution and fuel consumption.

The multi-assembly unit at Dundalk is the company’s centre of excellence for its extensive research on truck mounted forklifts. The plant also conducts research on production and development of Moffett products that are exported and distributed to over thirty five countries worldwide. Known for their quality, reliability and advanced technologies, the success of the Moffett forklifts has been credited to a committed workforce, talented engineers and technologies enhanced significantly since 1967.

 

 

HIAB’s Variable Stability Limit i.e. the VSL-V system complete with analog sensors has made it a popular option for transportation companies. HIAB equipment is generally chosen by transport companies like Jansson & Frank Transport AB due to a number of advanced features for speed and precision. With the VSL-V, HIAB trucks and cranes now boast extra stability. The system is designed to ensure that the truck does not tip over during operations.

The VSL-V manages to keep the truck stable while maximizing the outreach and lifting capacity of the crane. The system is capable of sensing exactly how far the stabilizer legs are spread and also assists the crane to handle heavy loads in restricted spaces. These stabilizing extensions have in-built sensors that keep track of the movement and position of the truck and the additional pressure sensors detect the amount of pressure inflicted on the stabilizer legs.

The European Union machinery directive states that vehicles should have up-to-date security and disconnecting these systems is considered illegal. However with the VSL-V, the integrated system gets rid of all security concerns raised by the EU. The VSL-V system is a helpful addition whether you are hauling heavy machinery or transporting construction equipment.

The VSL-V helps prevent accidents in numerous situations. If the operator is unable to see the exact position of the vehicle, the remote control of the VSL-V pinpoints the accurate position of the stabilizer legs and the corresponding lifting capacity. Additionally, the VSL-V system takes charge if the operator is distracted and forgets to leave out the stabilizers or lower the crane when necessary.