Send As SMS

Area of Practice:

Lifting and material handling equipment, cranes (overhead, terrain, special), elevating platforms, conveyors.

Off-road machinery, earth moving equipment, trench walls stability, drilling equipment.

Construction equipment, concrete pouring and vibrating, precast concrete, prestressed concrete production, demolition.

Steel structures fabrication, transportation, assembling and erecting, scaffolding.

WELCOME!

Friday, July 28, 2006

 

Accidents

ALTON. ILL. A 37-year-old truck driver was killed in an accident at an industrial site. The victim was standing near the end of a roll- off box behind his truck. The driver of 'another truck was attempting to load a second roll-off box that was stuck in the mud by using the truck's lift and cable. There was slack in the cable and the sec- ond box slipped and rolled into the first box, crushing the victim. According to the coroner, the victim suffered massive blunt trauma and was pronounced dead on the scene. The local police, the company that owns the industrial site, and OSHA, are investigating the accident.

DENTON. TEXAS One worker died and another was seriously injured when the boom of a drilling rig made contact with an overhead power line. The victims were drilling in a vacant lot where a house was being built. According to police, the electricity blew out the &ont tire on the truck and started a fire that burned the equipment and an area around it. A witness to the accident attempted CPR on the victim, who later died. Paramedics arrived and called for an air ambulance for the second victim.

GOOD LAND. KAN. A 30-yeas-old man died in a forklift accident. According to the sheriff's department, the victim was loading crates onto a semi-trailer and did not have the forks raised high enough. When the forklift hit the trailer, the victim was thrown forward and into the framework of the lift. At the same time, his body apparently hit the lever, which caused the forks to lower. As a result, the load fell and crushed him. A deputy coroner pronounced the victim dead on arrival. The sheriff's office investigated the accident.

VANCOUVER. BRITISH COLUMBIA. CANADA A man in his early 20's was injured in a forklift accident at a pon. The victim had been using a forklift to unload material from a cruise ship when the machine fell into the water. Co-workers retrieved the victim who was then transponed to a local hospital by ambulance. The victim was treated for a head injury sUstained during the accident. The Workers Compensation Board investigated the accident.

SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. A 21-year-old worker died in a forklift accident at a river wash. The victim was operating a forklift when the boom struck the underside of a highway over-pass. The forklift boom collapsed and crushed the victim. The forklift continued rolling for about 25 feet before careening off a dirt path and coming to rest against a dirt beam. A deputy coroner said the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. There was no word on the investigation into the accident.

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS. ILL. Three workers were hospitalized when a forklift punctured a 50-gallon barrel that contained a poisonous substance. According to fire officials, the employees were transported to a local hospital and treated for inhalation injuries after breathing the chemical. The rest of the building was evacuated as a precaution. Workers at the site were able to contain the spill to its immediate area until environmental specialists could come in and finish the job. The was no word about the investigation into the accident.

www.liftlink.com

# posted by Expert Witness @ 4:28 PM 0 comments  
 

Expert News - July 2006

Expert News
The Practice-Building Newsletter for Expert Consultants
July 2006


* Marketing Brief Non-Refundable Retainers
* Training Center How to Become a Dangerous Expert Witness
* Expert Excerpt Experts Beware - Take Notes Thoughtfully
* Legal Levity Improper Question or Objection?
* Bonus Tip Ask for Referrals


You *can* market your services without
sacrificing your integrity.

Marketing Brief

Non-Refundable Retainers



In recent emails and articles I've written and in several of Meredith's ecent blog postings (http://www.expertcommunications.blogspot.com/) we have been discussing the ins and outs of expert billing and collection practices. Judging from the amount of feedback we have received, this hits a button with many of you!

One expert shared a very on-point experience that illustrates some of the points we have addressed and was kind enough to let me share it with the rest of our readers.

"Rosalie -- I though I would share a recent experience I had regarding the "non-refundable retainer" clause that I have added to my standard fee agreement this last year. I should start by noting that I have been on the fence as far as a decision to make my retainer non-refundable for the last few years. After having the topic covered in a discussion of forensic experts last year, and hearing several pros and cons on the issue from my colleagues, I did decide to put the clause up-front in my
fee agreement.

The reason I decided to make my retainer non-refundable is specifically so that I cannot be declared an expert witness, and my name cannot be used strictly for leverage in the negotiations for settlement of a case, only to have the attorney ask for a refund of the retainer once the case has settled.

Just a few weeks ago, I was retained as an expert in a case for a plaintiff who lived very near a plaintiff I was retained for last year regarding the same incident, against the same defendant. I was referred to this client by my previous client because I had prepared extensive computer modeling of the incident and, with the assistance of my testimony, that client did win the case and a substantial jury award.

The trial date for the second case was to be only two weeks after my first contact with that second client. They did retain me and sent me a retainer check and a signed Fee Agreement within a few days. A week after being retained and a week before the trial was to begin, however, the client emailed me and notified me that the case had settled and that he wanted his retainer back.

Sensing that something smelled afoul, I made a few calls, both to the County Superior Court Clerk and the offices of the opposing attorney in that case. I found out that not only was I declared as an expert witness by Notice served to the opposing attorney several days before my Fee Agreement was signed, but also that the case was "very close to settlement," though not yet settled.

I immediately sent my new client a letter congratulating him for "settling the case" and reminded him that my retainer was non-refundable, as was explicitly stated in the fee agreement that he signed.

Out of kindness and feeling somewhat (but not real) bad, I did go on to offer him a discount against any future retention of my services on any future case. I haven't heard back from him yet, but doubt if I will.

I think I am going to keep my retainer non-refundable."

-- Regards, John Q. Expert

Quote



"A lawyer's performance in the courtroom is responsible for about 25
percent of the outcome; the remaining 75 percent depends on the facts."
-- Melvin Belli

Training Center

How to Become a Dangerous Expert Witness



A dangerous expert witness is an expert witness who puts fear into opposing counsel. Opposing lawyers are concerned about the dangerous expert's expertise, his command of the facts, and his ability to communicate, teach and persuade the jury. Dangerous experts understand how to defeat opposing counsel's tactics and are capable of turning the tables on opposing counsel.

Dangerous experts are the most sought after of all experts witnesses. The mere disclosure of a dangerous expert to the opposing side can frequently increase the settlement value of a case. Accordingly, dangerous experts are selective regarding the types of cases they accept and they command premium fees. This book is designed to teach experienced experts how to become dangerous experts. You will learn:

- How to bulletproof yourself and your opinions
- What dangerous experts do when preparing to testify
- How to defeat opposing counsel's tactics
- How to answer trick and difficult questions

Features include:

- Hundreds of concise examples with explanations
- Executive summaries for quick "need to know" reviews

To order your copy for $99.95 see http://tinyurl.com/fzpbj or call, fax or email using the contact information found at the end of this newsletter for additional info or assistance.


Expert Excerpt

Take Notes Thoughtfully



The notes an expert witness takes are generally discoverable. This includes underlining of documents. Dangerous experts recognize that they are likely to be questioned closely on any and all notes and notations they make. They are careful not to create any notes that are inflammatory, show bias, or could be misconstrued and used against them.

Some experts routinely discard notes as part of their document retention policy. This is problematic for two reasons. First, this could be considered illegal if the notes are expected to be subpoenaed. This could result in the expert being barred from testifying or otherwise sanctioned by the court. Either result will not help the witness's career as an expert. Second, discarding notes can often be far more
damaging to the expert that whatever was in the notes. As history has shown from Watergate to Enron to Martha Stewart, the cover up is usually much more damaging than the underlying behavior. Dangerous experts are completely transparent in all they do and are not afraid to answer any questions about their notes.

EXAMPLE - Notes on records

Q: Your handwritten notes on the incident report say what, sir?
A: "Not helpful. Discuss with counsel."
Q: Let's talk about what you mean by "not helpful" and what exactly you
discussed with counsel.

Lesson: Dangerous experts recognize that any notes they make may result in questioning by opposing counsel. It will be difficult for the expert in the above example to "explain away" what he meant, especially if it conflicts with the opinions expressed in his report.

-----------------------------

EXAMPLE - Destruction of records/notes
Q: You made field notes when you examined the distress at the Windsor
House?
A: Yes, I did.
Q: These were made contemporaneously during your visit?
A: Yes.
Q: Where are these field notes?
A: I shredded them.
Q: Do you shred all your field notes or do you only do that in cases
where you are going to testify?

Lesson: The expert in the above example is in the unenviable position of discussing how, when, and why he shredded his field notes. If counsel can prove or even imply he did so to avoid conflicts with his reports or opinions, the expert's credibility could be damaged. The jury may not understand geotechnical engineering concepts, but jurors do understand destruction of records.

-- Excerpted from *How to Become a Dangerous Expert Witness: Advanced Techniques and Strategies* by Steven Babitsky, Esq. and James J.Mangraviti, Jr., Esq. http://tinyurl.com/fzpbj


Legal Levity

Improper Question or Objection?



A lawyer cross-examined the adversary's main witness. "You claim to have stopped by Mrs. Edwards' house just after breakfast. Will you tell the jury what she said?"

"Objection, your honor," shouted the other lawyer.

There then followed a long argument between the lawyers as to whether the question was proper. Finally, after 45 minutes, the judge allowed it.

"So," the first lawyer continued, "Please answer the question: What did Mrs. Edwards say when you went to her house after breakfast on December 3rd?"

"Nothing," said the witness. "No one was home."

Bonus Tip

Ask for Referrals



Do you ask for referrals? Do you ask for referrals from all available sources - clients, past clients, colleagues, vendors, friends, etc.?

An expert I know in Houston who has retired from his lifetime career is now a part-time expert consultant trying to spend time traveling with his wife. He is still besieged with so many calls regarding cases that he turns down enough work to employ one or two other experts full-time. Younger, hungrier experts in his field should be taking him to lunch - frequently!

When you have finished a case, ask the attorney if he would be so kind as to refer you to other attorneys or give you names of other people he thinks you might assist. (This is also the time to request a letter stating that he or she is pleased with the services you performed)
-- Excerpted from *The Expert Witness Marketing Book* by Rosalie
Hamilton, The Expert's Expert (tm) http://tinyurl.com/dwr7k


Fine Print
Expert Communications
--Expert Witness Marketing & Training
140 Island Way, #288, Clearwater, FL 33767
Tel 727-467-0700 Fax 727-467-0800
meredith@expertcommunications.com

Dedicated to helping expert consultants get more clients and cases through proven legal-appropriate marketing strategies, individually customized for each expert or firm.

This message was sent to mg@mgots.com

# posted by Expert Witness @ 3:52 PM 0 comments  

Friday, July 14, 2006

 

The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC),

The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), the voice of the construction industry, is an organization of qualified construction contractors and industry related companies dedicated to skill, integrity, and responsibility. Operating in partnership with its Chapters, the association provides a full range of services satisfying the needs and concerns of its members, thereby improving the quality of construction and protecting the public interest.

AGC is the nation's largest and oldest construction trade association, established in 1918 after a request by President Woodrow Wilson. Wilson recognized the construction industry's national importance and desired a partner with which the government could discuss and plan for the advancement of the nation. AGC has been fulfilling that mission for the last 85 years.

AGC is dedicated to improving the construction industry daily by educating the industry to employ the finest skills, promoting use of the latest technology and advocating building the best quality projects for owners--public and private. AGC is committed to three tenets of industry advancement and opportunity: Skill, Integrity, and Responsibility.

www.agc.org

# posted by Expert Witness @ 11:28 AM 0 comments  
 

John Deere Engine Works produces its one-millionth engine

John Deere Power Systems (JDPS) and its diesel engine factory, John Deere Engine Works, reached two notable milestones this spring. The Waterloo, Iowa, factory simultaneously celebrated its 30th anniversary and produced its one-millionth engine.
This significant achievement for the Waterloo factory is just a fraction of the overall total production of John Deere engines worldwide, which exceeds well over 5 million. To accommodate the rising global demand for the engines, John Deere now manufactures engines at five factories: Waterloo, Iowa; Saran, France; Torreon, Mexico; Rosario, Argentina; and Pune, India.
The one-millionth engine manufactured at the Engine Works in Waterloo was a Tier 2/Stage II PowerTech 8.1L engine, and it was installed in a John Deere 9996 cotton picker. Dave Rodger, plant manager of John Deere Des Moines Works, presented a gold key to Chester Shot, who purchased the cotton picker with the landmark engine inside. Shot will take the cotton picker back to Greenville, MS, where he farms 5,200 acres of cotton and 1,000 acres of soybeans.
"We are proud to announce that Engine Works employees produced the one millionth engine. This milestone is the result of the efforts of all our employees – from product design through manufacturing to sales and customer support," says Jean Gilles, senior vice president, John Deere Power Systems. "This engine reflects the innovation, commitment, quality and integrity of our employees as did the first engine that came off the Engine Works assembly line 30 years ago."
John Deere engines are the heart of John Deere vehicles. An increasing number of OEMs are specifying John Deere engines for their equipment, and many John Deere engines now power OEM machines. John Deere got its start in the engine business marketing to OEMs in the mid-1970s and sold a few hundred engines primarily to ag-related customers. Today, the JDPS global customer base includes John Deere engines in thousands of applications in a wide variety of off-highway markets.

www.oemoffhighway.com

# posted by Expert Witness @ 9:19 AM 0 comments  
 

MSHA official praises Michelin Tire Safety Program

A senior Mining Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) field inspector is singing the praises of the Michelin Earthmover Safety Training Program. The Michelin program was recently expanded to provide more comprehensive tire training for all of its earthmover market segments.
James owman, a 32-year MSHA veteran, is responsible for carrying out the mission of MSHA – inspecting mines and quarries to insure their safe day-to-day operation. Bowman recently said, "I am very impressed with the Michelin tire safety program and have used it several times since I received the material. The program is comprehensive, to the point and full of information that assures safe procedures and intelligent risk analysis determinations."
Bowman said that the mining industry is moving in a direction that will require more tire products than ever before. He noted that tires used in the mining industry today have potential safety consequences if not used properly and well-maintained.
"The Michelin safety program provides the total package of assembly, evaluation, maintenance and application," said Bowman. "It is obvious that the Michelin safety program is the most innovative and comprehensive program on the market today for tire safety. Many thanks and appreciation go to Michelin for its efforts to see that miners go home to their families safely every day," Bowman concluded.
The program is designed to educate managers, maintenance personnel, equipment operators and support staff on best safety practices not only in mine operations, but also in quarries, construction sites and port and terminal operations. The program can be taught by Michelin Earthmover personnel, authorized Michelin tire dealers or the customer's safety manager.
Michelin Earthmover is an industry leader with radial tires for equipment ranging from forklifts, to loaders, to giant haul trucks.

www.michelinearthmover.com

# posted by Expert Witness @ 9:15 AM 0 comments  
 

Grove GMK7450 sold to Qatar Navigation

Shipping operator Qatar Navigation has purchased a seven-axle GMK7450 (GMK7550 in the US) Grove all-terrain crane. The GMK7450 is the largest Grove mobile crane model produced and was sold by Mannai Trading, MCG’s sole distributor in the Gulf nation.
Since delivery, the GMK7450 has been placing 30 t (33 USt) concrete-covered gas pipes, for which it uses 55 m (180 ft) of main boom, and maximum counterweight of 120 t (132 USt). The Grove GMK7450 is the first of its kind to be purchased in Qatar.
The purchase was celebrated at a ceremony, held in Mannai’s offices in Doha, Qatar’s capital city. Representatives from Mannai, Qatar Navigation, and MCG were present. Sheikh Hamad bin Suhaim al-Thani, chairman of Qatar Navigation, said all three companies present continue to play an important role in Qatar’s future.
“The construction industry in Qatar is growing, and we appreciate Mannai’s service and the quality of Manitowoc Crane Group equipment supplied to us,” al-Thani said. “I’m sure that the GMK7450 will be an excellent performer, and I am delighted to add another Grove all-terrain to our existing fleet as we continue to strengthen our operations.”
Hamid Summers, Middle East sales manager for Grove, said MCG was further strengthening its position in the Middle East.
“One of our objectives in the Middle East is to better serve our customers with a local point of contact, and MCG is in the process of establishing a new facility,” he said. “A total staff of 32 will be on call, ready to back up our distributors, so that MCG can provide the best service possible. The GMK7450 is a flagship crane, one that MCG is very proud of. We are very fortunate to have customers and dealers like Qatar Navigation and Mannai who are responsive to engineering innovation.”
Khalid Mannai, chairman of Mannai Corporation, is confident the new all-terrain will prove successful in the region.
“Reliability, durability, and productivity are the three key values that come with every Grove crane,” Mannai said. “These values make Grove the global market leader it is today. We would like to thank MCG for the technical and commercial support it continues to provide. The GMK7450 is destined to play a leading role in many new developments in Qatar.”
The 450 t (550 USt) GMK7450 joins 12 other Grove all-terrains in Qatar Navigation’s fleet, which comprises five GMK5200 (GMK5240 in the US) models, three GMK5100s (GMK5120B in the US), two GMK4075s (GMK4090 in the US), and two GMK3050-1s, with another one on order, as well as a GMK5130-1, expected later this year.



www.manitowoccranegroup.com

# posted by Expert Witness @ 9:05 AM 0 comments  
 

Gehl Announces the New 7810E Skid Loader – The World’s Most Powerful Skid Loader.

Gehl Company announced a new model Gehl 7810E Skid Loader. This new skid loader is the ultimate “muscle machine,” loaded with all the power, strength and speed needed for any agriculture or construction job site.
The 7810E Skid Loader is powered by a Cummins® 99-horsepower (74 kW) turbo-charged diesel engine with exceptionally high [305 ft.-lb. (414 Nm)] torque. It has an increased SAE rated load capacity of 3,850 lbs. (1,746 kg), the highest in the industry. From breaking, hauling and grinding concrete, to digging and moving materials and loading trucks, the new Gehl 7810E Skid Loader has the power and hydraulic capabilities to make it one of the most productive pieces of equipment on the work site.
“This new model skid loader was designed to be the ultimate in digging and lifting performance,” says Kelly Moore, Skid Loader Product Manager for Gehl. “The 7810E has a host of features, including true vertical-lift linkage, which provides consistent forward reach throughout the entire lift cycle. A lift height of nearly 12 feet is the highest in the industry. ”
With a 3,300 psi hydraulic system relief pressure, the new 7810E Skid Loader delivers an unmatched bucket breakout force of 8,340 lbs. (37.1 kN). The auxiliary hydraulic system, which provides standard 29 gpm adjustable flow (110L/min) and up to 41 gpm (155 L/min) with optional high-flow, creates superior hydraulic attachment performance.
Additionally, a two-speed drive is available, which offers ground speeds up to 12.5 mph. The 55-inchwheelbase, combined with the optional Hydraglide™ ride control system, with a special lift arm suspension system that allows the lift arm to “float,” provides a smoother ride at faster ground speeds.



http://www.gehl.com

# posted by Expert Witness @ 8:51 AM 0 comments  

Thursday, July 13, 2006

 

Inspections Reveal 60 Loose Roof Anchors in Boston Tunnel

Massachusetts officials have closed the Interstate 90 connector tunnel in Boston indefinitely as preliminary inspections turned up at least 60 suspect roof anchors supporting precast concrete air plenum panels. The 40-ft X 12-ft ceiling panel modules are being inspected over a 200-ft section of the tunnel, a portion of the $14.6-billion Central Artery/Tunnel project, following a late night collapse on July 10 that killed Milena Del Valle, 38, a passenger in a car driven by her husband Angel Del Valle, who suffered minor injuries. The tunnel connects I-90 to the Ted Williams Tunnel and Logan International Airport.



Massachusetts Turnpike Authority Chairman Matthew J. Amorello, who oversees the most expensive highway project in U.S. history, ordered the closure and inspections of about 15 modules on each side of the road after it was determined that nine imbedded anchors grouted into the tunnel roof gave way in a cascading fashion above the eastbound lane, leading to the module collapse. Each module contains five, 12-ft X 8-ft panels and weighs at least 10 tons. The remainder of the tunnel uses a unistrut system cast into the roof. The connector opened in 2003 but Modern Continental Construction Co, Inc, Cambridge, installed the panels in 1999. Modern issued a statement saying its ‘work fully complied with the plans and specifications provided by the Central Artery Tunnel Project’ and that the work was inspected and approved.
Inspectors from the Federal Highway Administration and the state are on site as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation and subpoenas have been issued to project consultant Bechtel/Parsons Brinckerhoff and Modern. STS, Chicago, HNTB, Boston and other firms have been called in to inspect all tunnel infrastructure including the I-93 tunnel complex and the Zakim Bunker Hill cable-stayed bridge. “Bechtel/ Parsons Brinckerhoff will cooperate fully with investigators but given that they are just starting to gather facts we have no further comment at this point,” says Andy Paven, B/PB spokesman.
CA/T replaced an antiquated 50-year old elevated highway running through downtown Boston. But escalating costs—a smaller version of the CA/T initially was figured at $2.3 billion—and tunnels leaks and charges of fraud and inferior concrete use have dimmed the project’s luster. The Del Valle death is the latest in a series of problems and may have far-reaching consequences as a host of politicians have jumped onto the incident.
Gov. Mitt Romney (R), is again calling for Amorello to step down and State Attorney General Thomas F. Reilly (D) has designated the site a crime scene and impounded the panels. Boston Mayor Thomas Menino is seeking an independent investigation. Inspection work could be slowed because of legal requirements for photographing and cataloging all materials.
Amorello was appointed turnpike chairman in early 2003 following contentious board meetings over cost escalation and recovery that led to the removal of his predecessor, James J. Kerasiotes. The authority questioned B/PB’s oversight. Amorello has been the object of Romney’s ire since debris fell onto the I-93 tunnel roadway and the discovery of numerous leaks in the I-93 tunnel, which prompted a public outcry and several contactor-funded remedies, Modern among them.
Amorello says he has no intention of stepping down. Romney has presidential aspirations and Reilly is hoping to become governor but faces a stiff primary. Reilly has been criticized for his tepid pursuit of cost recovery actions and has acknowledged receiving campaign contributions from CA/T contractors.
by ENR

# posted by Expert Witness @ 4:46 PM 0 comments  

Wednesday, July 12, 2006

 

New Ditch Witch XT1600 A Triple Threat

The Charles Machine Works, Inc. (CMW), manufacturer of Ditch Witch underground construction equipment, has expanded its compact utility equipment offering with its new XT1600 excavator-tool carrier.
The new Ditch Witch XT1600 excavator-tool carrier is designed to perform the work of three machines: a backhoe loader, mini excavator, and compact track loader. “The combined power, productivity, and versatility of the XT1600 make this an exceptionally efficient and cost-effective machine,” says Mike Lumbers, CMW senior compact utility product manager. “When you take into account the monthly maintenance, fuel, labor and transport expense of three machines versus one XT1600, it’s easy to see how this remarkable new unit can save contractors a considerable amount of time and money.”
Equipped with a 59-hp diesel engine, the versatile XT1600 is a ride-on unit that features a 260-degree excavator sweep that enables the operator to dig in multiple positions in confined places, including offset digging along walls, fences, and buildings. “The XT1600 has a relatively small footprint, which is an advantage in terms of maneuvering around tight jobsites and also in terms of transport,” says Lumbers. “At only 9,500 pounds, it allows a variety of trailer and towing options.”
At the site, operators can expect a smooth ride from the XT1600, thanks to an innovative equalizer track system with pivoting rollers that keep more track on the surface. “Greater comfort for the operator means less fatigue,” says Lumbers. “And more track on the ground gives the machine greater stability, for easier loading and unloading.” Stabilizers on the excavator end, give the unit additional stability when excavating in tough soils. Operator comfort is further enhanced by the XT1600’s roomy operator’s station, which provides exceptional visibility for a machine its size.
The new XT1600 is extraordinarily versatile, capable of running a variety of compact utility attachments, including most full-size skid steer attachments. And with 30 net horsepower (22 kW) to the attachment, the XT1600 can perform a tremendous range of general construction, utility installation, road work, materials handling, demolition tasks, and landscaping. With the unit’s quick-disconnect fittings, attachments can be changed with the hydraulic system under pressure, so multiple jobs can be performed in less time.
The Ditch Witch organization specializes in the design and manufacture of high-quality underground construction equipment. The company is a one-stop source for trenchers, vibratory plows, pneumatic piercing tools, backhoes, electronic tracking and locating tools, horizontal directional drilling systems, drill pipe, downhole tools, vacuum excavation systems, mini excavators, excavator-tool carriers, and mini skid steers.
All of these products are recognized around the world for their advanced design, rugged construction, long-term durability, ease of use, and reliability. This product line represents the most complete range of equipment for installing utilities underground.
Ditch Witch is a name you can trust for your equipment and financial needs. Ditch Witch Financial Service (DWFS) is a full-service provider, offering a wide variety of finance and lease option s to meet your individual requirements.



For more information about the new XT1600, visit www.ditchwitch.com .

# posted by Expert Witness @ 11:01 AM 0 comments  
 

DEERE & COMPANY ACQUIRES LEADER IN PRECISION IRRIGATION

Deere & Company announced that it has acquired Roberts Irrigation Products – a manufacturer of high performance plastic micro and drip irrigation products for the agricultural, nursery, and greenhouse markets. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Roberts Irrigation will continue to be headquartered in San Marcos, CA. The acquisition of Roberts Irrigation provides Deere a foundation to grow its new business initiative in precision water systems.
"Among Deere & Company's strategic growth opportunities, the water industry is one that makes very good sense," said Mike McGrady, president of John Deere's Precision Water Systems. "Water is an important natural resource for customers of John Deere equipment. Management of this limited resource will become even more critical in the future."
"Customers of Roberts Irrigation and John Deere will benefit from this new affiliation," said John Roberts, who will remain as president of Roberts Irrigation. "Both John Deere and Roberts Irrigation value innovative solutions. Our customers desire near perfect product support and products that help them be productive and successful. With this initiative, we believe customers will be well served as we expand our product line and service levels."
Roberts Irrigation Products was founded in 1968 after the company's first product – a plastic rotary sprinkler – was developed on the Roberts family farm. As sales grew, the company eventually built its manufacturing operation in San Marcos and supplied agricultural, greenhouse and nursery growers throughout the United States. With a commitment to tradition, integrity and innovation, the company grew internationally to become one the world's leaders in high performance irrigation.
Deere & Company is the world's leading manufacturer of agricultural and forestry equipment, a major manufacturer of construction equipment, and a leading supplier of equipment used in lawn, grounds and turf care. John Deere also manufactures and markets engines used in heavy equipment and provides landscape and worldwide financial services. Since it was founded in 1837, the company has extended its heritage of integrity, quality, commitment and innovation around the globe.

# posted by Expert Witness @ 10:48 AM 0 comments  

Thursday, July 06, 2006

 

Doosan Infracore Names Crawler Equipment Sales as New Doosan Daewoo Dealer

Doosan Infracore America names Crawler Equipment Sales as a new dealer of Doosan Daewoo construction equipment. The Lawrenceville, Georgia based dealer sells, rents and services the entire line of Doosan Daewoo excavators and wheel loaders to many construction industries in multiple North Georgia counties.
Established in 1987, Crawler Equipment has a long history of prompt and dedicated service to those in the market for quality new and used equipment and parts. Crawler Equipment has a knowledgeable staff committed to helping their customers. “We are committed to standing behind what we sell,” said Mark Stephens, dealer principal for Crawler Equipment. “Through an extensive, six-month background check, we found Doosan parts to be readily available and Doosan products to be dependable and competitively priced. We are proud to sell and rent Doosan equipment.”

ABOUT DOOSAN INFRACORE AMERICA CORP.
Doosan Infracore America Corporation, formerly known as Daewoo Heavy Industries America Corporation, services a large network of Doosan Daewoo dealers in North America from its headquarters in Suwanee, Georgia. Doosan Infracore America Corporation is responsible for all North American sales, service, and technical support for Doosan Daewoo heavy construction equipment and lift trucks. The facility in Suwanee features a state-of-the-art service, sales and parts training center, as well as a parts distribution center that services all of the U.S. and Canada. For more information, visit www.dhiac.com.

# posted by Expert Witness @ 12:31 PM 0 comments  
 

Case Delivers New Excavator to Work on Sculpture

For the Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation, Memorial Day Weekend and the onset of June marked both the beginning of the summer tourist season and the continuation of the non-profit Foundation’s efforts to create the largest statue on the planet. Included in the celebration was the display of a new Case CX240 Excavator, which will be used, along with precision blasting and other earthmoving equipment, to reveal the sculpture of the legendary Oglala Sioux chief.
Begun nearly 60 years ago, the project involves carving a 641x563-foot statue-in-the-round out of a solid granite mountain located in the Black Hills area of South Dakota, 17 miles southwest of Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

Visitors, Donors Help Support Construction


Construction of the Crazy Horse statue is a privately-funded project. As part of the fundraising, the Foundation hosts events throughout the summer months, beginning with its annual Memorial Day weekend open house.
This year’s Memorial Day event included the return of Native American and other guest artists and crafts people, who displayed their work in the Indian Museum of North America and the Native American Educational & Cultural Center, located at the Crazy Horse site.
The highlight of the weekend was an explosive blast on the enormous mountain carving, on Monday morning, that sent a cloud of dust and rocks into the air. Precision blasting with detonating cord is necessary to safely shape and remove rock to within 20 feet of the final statue.

Case Excavator Arrives for Open House

,
Work on Current Phase of Sculpture
A Case CX240 Excavator, which arrived in time for public display over the Memorial Day weekend, drew the attention of visitors as they passed through the entrance to the Crazy Horse site. Case Construction Equipment and its financing arm, CNH Capital, donated a significant portion of the cost of the Case CX240 Excavator, which joins a Case 9010B Excavator, a Case donation to the Foundation in 2001.
The new Case Excavator will allow the Foundation to work faster and more efficiently on the larger sections being blasted out of the mountain during the current phase of the work, which involves carving the 219-foot-high horse’s head out of the mountain one section at a time, working downward.
After each blast, one of the two Case excavators, along with two crawler dozers in the Foundation’s fleet, clears away the blast area by removing loose rock and depositing it over the side of the mountain for later removal from the site.
“The CX240 is a larger machine that can move more material and reach farther than our Case 9010B. It’s a very powerful tool,” said Kevin Hachmeister, who heads engineering for the Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation. “We’re grateful to Case and CNH Capital for helping to make this machine available to us.”


# posted by Expert Witness @ 12:24 PM 0 comments  
 

Ultimate Versatility: New 2300 Utility Vehicle with RapidLink Attachment System

BOBCAT



The new 2300 4x4 (four-wheel drive) utility vehicle is an innovative concept being introduced by Bobcat Company, a business of Ingersoll Rand, a diversified industrial firm. The Bobcat® 2300 is more than your average utility vehicle, with the ultimate versatility people have come to expect from the compact equipment leader. It can mow, sweep, and move materials with its one-of-a-kind RapidLink™ attachment system.
"Other utility vehicles offer attachments for doing a few jobs, but none offer the opportunity to do as many different types of tasks as the 2300," said Brad Claus, Bobcat Company utility vehicle product manager. "It's an ideal time- and labor-saver for nurseries, buildings and grounds maintenance work, and homeowners with acreages, farms, and ranches."
The uniquely designed RapidLink attachment arm can lift loads up to 500 pounds as high as 2 feet. The four-wheel drive 2300 can be equipped with five specially designed Bobcat attachments, including a bucket, mower, pallet fork, snow blade, and whisker push broom. Other attachments are forthcoming, Claus said.
Users can operate and change attachments from the comfort of their seat with an easy-to-operate joystick control that is an industry exclusive. During attachment changes, the only reason to leave the operator's seat is to lock or unlock the attachment. When not in use, the RapidLink attachment arm can be easily removed for traditional four-wheel drive applications.
The 20-hp Bobcat 2300 has many of the same features as the Bobcat 2200 four-wheel drive utility vehicle, including the exclusive IntelliTrak® drive system. When maximum traction is needed for climbing hills or traveling over soft terrain, the IntelliTrak system automatically sends power to all four wheels, preventing one, two, or three wheels from spinning without the fourth. The automatic locking differential engages when needed and disengages when turning, minimizing ground disturbance and wear to tires and drive components.
The utility vehicle's deep-ratio, continuously variable transmission provides high torque and travel speeds up to 25 mph. The unique transmission design eliminates the need for operators to stop and shift gears. Rack-and-pinion steering provides responsive and practically effortless steering, a quick turning ratio, and a short turning radius. The 2300's double A-arm front suspension and swing-arm rear suspension provide unmatched ride quality.
The 2300, which is powered by a 20-hp diesel engine, offers flexible operator comfort with its adjustable steering column and driver's seat. The operator area provides industry-leading legroom, extra storage spaces, cup holders, and a 12-volt power adapter on the dash panel.
Other features of the 2300 include an exclusive aluminum frame that is rust-proof, strong, and durable. A power cargo dump box with an 800-pound bed load capacity comes standard, and the seats, hood, and cargo box can be easily lifted for access to routine maintenance items such as engine oil, radiator coolant, and brake fluid levels. For added towing and rear attachment capabilities, operators can hook up a trailer or implements to the standard 2-inch receiver hitch on the rear.
Bobcat is also introducing its new four-wheel drive, four-passenger 2200S utility vehicle that includes four, forward-facing seats plus lots of cargo area for gear and supplies. An entire crew can ride in comfort through the park, around the resort, in the woods, or at the nursery.
Likewise, a restyled two-passenger Bobcat 2200 four-wheel drive utility vehicle also is being released and includes a new rugged front-end design, brush guard, and 25-inch tires. The 2200 can tackle all kinds of terrain on the farm, ranch, or trail.
Both the 2200 and 2200S are available with 20-hp gasoline or diesel engines.

Ingersoll Rand is a world leader in the field of compact vehicles and equipment. The widely known Bobcat brand includes an extensive line of powerful, nimble compact construction equipment and attachments, and our state-of-the-art engineering capabilities and stylish designs are reflected in our world famous Club Car® vehicles. For more information, visit www.bobcat.com or www.ingersollrand.com.

# posted by Expert Witness @ 12:05 PM 0 comments  
 

Model 3090 Whole Tree Chipper

Bandit Industries has introduced the Model 3090, a hydraulic feed 22" capacity drum style chipper. This high production whole tree chipper has the capability of loading full length chip vans that can be spotted in numerous positions. This unit is available with or without a cab and loader (see above).
The 22" diameter capacity Model 3090 features a large 30" wide by 30" high chipper opening and a 37" diameter by 32" chipping drum, providing plenty of power for pulling whole trees into the feed system. The mid-sized Model 3090 is equipped with a powerful top-feed wheel that is 24" in diameter and also features a 10' long by 24" wide in-feed conveyor.
The 3090, powered by a 440-horsepower Caterpillar Tier 3 engine, will fill a typical 45' chip trailer in less than 20 minutes, as long as the machine is fed an adequate supply of wood. A 155-gallon fuel tank provides more than a days supply of fuel.
The loader machine features a hydraulic knuckle boom loader with 16' reach and provides plenty of power to pull and lift multiple stems at once. The loader also features a 48" continuous rotation grapple, effectively keeping the machine fed. Two front stabilizers are used as the tongue, providing a stable chipping platform.
Along with a loader, operators can enjoy a comfortable cab that includes a heater, deluxe swivel seat w/ arm rests, joystick controls, defroster fan, safety horn, and lexan front windows. The control panel features tachometer, hour meter, emergency engine shut down and a fuel gauge.
The unit without a loader and cab has the same features as the loader unit and can easily be fed with a bobcat or excavator.
Auto Feed Plus is standard on the Model 3090, a must when chipping large diameter material. Auto Feed Plus eliminates the need for the operator to manually stop the feed system to allow the engine to recover. Auto Feed Plus not only stops the feed system when the engine drops RPM, but also backs the material away from the drum and then restarts the feed system when the engine regains full RPM.

Interested parties can contact Bandit at 1-800-952-0178 for more information or to arrange a demonstration.
www.banditchippers.com.

# posted by Expert Witness @ 11:55 AM 0 comments  
 

Atlas Copco opens a customer center in Bulgaria

Atlas Copco has opened a customer center in Sofia, Bulgaria, employing approximately 20 people. The new customer center offers a wide range of construction and mining products, compressor products and related aftermarket products to the Bulgarian market.
The opening of the customer center coincides with Atlas Copco Lifton’s acquisition of part of its distributor, Kammarton. Kammarton is one of the leading distributors of equipment and services, including compressors, for mining and construction markets in Bulgaria. The acquired part has annual revenues of MSEK 41 (MEUR 4.5) approximately.
The market in Bulgaria is growing by more than 10% per year, presenting opportunities in the construction, mining and industrial segments. The establishment of the new customer center will reinforce the market presence of related Atlas Copco products and services in this important region. It fits in with Atlas Copco’s strategy of close customer contact and direct offering of products and services.
“With Bulgaria on the doorstep to the European Union there will be a lot of opportunities for future business,” says Björn Rosengren, Business Area President, Atlas Copco Construction and Mining Technique. “The new customer center allows us to come closer to our Bulgarian customers in order to serve them better, and with our own dedicated people we will be well placed to develop the aftermarket further.”
The customer center will be run in two organizations to represent Atlas Copco’s Construction and Mining Technique and Compressor Technique business areas.

For further information please contact:
Björn Rosengren, Business Area President, Construction and Mining Technique
+46 (0)8 743 83 14 or +46 (0)70 417 85 02

Joanna Canton, Media Relations Manager
+44 (0)1442 22 23 12 or +44 (0)7971 65 01 15

Atlas Copco is a world leading provider of industrial productivity solutions. The products and services range from compressed air and gas equipment, generators, construction and mining equipment, industrial tools and assembly systems, to related aftermarket and rental. In close cooperation with customers and business partners, and with more than 130 years of experience, Atlas Copco innovates for superior productivity. Headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, the Group’s global reach spans more than 150 markets. In 2005, Atlas Copco had 27 000 employees and revenues of BSEK 53 (MEUR 5 600).
Learn more at www.atlascopco.com.

# posted by Expert Witness @ 11:47 AM 0 comments  

Google

This page is powered by Blogger. Isn't yours?