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Serving the Canadian rental industry for 44 years.
4 EDITORIAL
Things suck, but they could be a heck of a lot worse.
20 DRILL SIDEWAYS
Sometimes the best way through is underneath.
Take advantage of lucrative high-rise developments with gypsum pump rentals. 16 10 20 22
10 THE NO-CONTACT RENTAL STORE
Some of the measures we’ve adopted may become permanent.
22 GYPSUM SOLUTION
14 AN ENTREPRENEUR TO THE KOR
Anthony Aantjes’ passion for business knows no bounds.
26 COMPACTION SHOWCASE
Hit the ground running with these top new soil compaction products.
9 Q1 CANADIAN RENTAL RATE REPORT
19 AT YOUR SERVICE
The pandemic has brought one gift: time. by Russ Dantu
30 THE BIG EVENT
Transitioning to online event support might fill some of the business gap. by Tara Jacobs
www.canadianrentalservice.com
How lucky we are The
Looking over the truly inspirational stories in last month’s issue, I’ve been struck ever since by the thought of how lucky we are to live in this country and work in this sector. Considering the blow we’ve been dealt to our ability to carry on business, not to mention our personal routines and even personal health security, I have to say I’m proud of the Canadian reaction. First of all, people have taken this seriously. We’ve listened to experts, thought and talked about the problems and their solutions and, largely voluntarily, made big sacrifices in our lives and our bank accounts. The great and somewhat amazing thing is, we haven’t done this out of self-interest. We all know that an individual’s chance of dying from COVID-19 is small. For most, it’s like a nasty flu. Most of you reading this are still working age, which means you are younger than the groups most at risk. Yet you made the great effort anyway. You closed your showroom and told customers they had to call ahead for service. You sent valuable workers home. You spent hours scouring counters and equipment. You trained up fast on fancy remote payment software. You damaged your thumbs building plexiglass service windows for your staff. You went blind looking at government websites to find the funds needed to keep the lights on and the workers fed. You donated time and equipment to help out the local health authorities and charities protecting the ill. And through it
ON THE WEB:
Coronavirus Roundup
The pandemic continues to generate news at a rate that demands daily updates. We’re scouring the internet so you don’t have to. Get quick hits with industry-relevant stories, critical information about government programs and links to resources and online education for your business - all on one page. Check it out daily, or follow @CRSmagazine for instant notifications.
Special Counter Talks episodes
The pandemic is giving us lots to talk about and Counter Talks is where the great conversations happen. Check it out at canadianrentalservice.com or subscribe on your favourite podcasting service.
by Patrick Flannery
all, you watched your revenues slow or, in many cases, stop. Why did we do all this? Because we knew the effort was necessary to protect those most at risk and to preserve our hospital capacity to save as many of them as possible. We took individual hits – some big, some small – for fellow Canadians we don’t know and will never meet. As a country, our intelligence, sense of civic responsibility and common decency has never been on stronger display.
Then there’s how we did it, and I’d say we did it with style. It’s a well-kept secret that Canadians have the best sense of humour in the world. In my many, many conversations over the last few months, I’ve encountered almost no negativity of any kind. People are smiling, laughing and cracking jokes at their own expense about their hair and eating habits on lockdown. They are finding ways to donate and to thank health and essential services workers. They are cheerfully putting up with the vagaries of Zoom and kids blundering into important meetings. There’s been no sense of hysteria or fear in the country; instead I’ve picked up a kind of resigned determination to get on with it and make the best of it. Kind of like the way winter makes us feel every year anyway. The few dissenters and rule-breakers have been tolerated with little more than furrowed brows and the voices criticizing the government response have been listened to respectfully and in some cases even effected change.
Lord help me, I’m even a bit proud of our political leaders. Admittedly, it’s a low bar these days in light of the deadly, divisive, corrupt, incompetent clown show to the south, but I have to give credit to Ottawa and the premiers for having a plan, communicating clearly, acting on expert advice and doing their best to react to a bewildering new set of problems. Mistakes have been made for sure, but by and large I feel like they have been forgivable ones under the circumstances.
Most of all, I think at this time we all can feel lucky to live here in Canada where, for all its warts, we have the strength of society, depth of resources and stability of government to weather this thing. There are places in the world where bodies have piled up in the streets. Instead, here, I think we will very soon be looking at a roaring recovery. CRS
COMING UP IN AUGUST
XTENDING THE BUSINESS
Xtend Rentals and Safety in Ladysmith, B.C., takes the rental business into the safety sector for added opportunity.
PPPROFITS
As long as everyone is thinking and talking about PPE, rental stores might as well make some money off it.
2020 HEAT SHOWCASE
Just in time for fall, the heater showcase is back with all the latest technology.
SKYJACK HELPS
Skyjack received a request via social media from a local medical professional in Guelph, Ont., prompting the revival of a promotional item which has new relevance today. The Skyjack bandana was first produced for a charity event to raise awareness for breast cancer. Medical staff who attended the event remembered the bandana and thought it would be ideal in a medical setting, as shortages of equipment began to deplete. A week later, a new “Health First” version of the bandana is now being used in multiple hospitals within a three-hour radius of Skyjack’s Guelph facilities. Additionally, using both Skyjack and parent Linamar’s purchasing and logistics departments, they have assisted with sourcing PPE and storage of supplies for local hospitals.
“We are in constant contact with our community partners and are looking for ways we can assist,” said Ken McDougall, president at Skyjack. “I could not be more proud of the work that has been undertaken by the Skyjack and Linamar teams in their support, manufacturing and supply of PPE.”
TORO DONATES
The Toro Company has announced it is giving $500,000 to assist families and communities worldwide that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Grant funding from the Toro Foundation will span all regions where the Toro company operates, and will focus on providing food, health and humanitarian assistance to helping people adversely impacted.
“Supporting our customers and communities is an important part of our culture and core to who we are as a company,” said Rick Olson, chairman and CEO. “Now more than ever, it is critical that we come together to respond to the unprecedented challenges posed by COVID19 and to support those most vulnerable in our communities.”
The contributions include commitments to several global non-profits that are assisting in the relief efforts. This includes the American Red Cross and the International Committee of the Red Cross, Feeding America, the World Food Program, the United Way Worldwide and United Way organizations in communities where Toro’s employees live and work. An additional element of the global giving effort includes a special program for its employees who wish to personally give to designated COVID-19 relief organizations. Under the program, Toro will match employee contributions to a non-profit organization of their choice in support of relief efforts.
ICUEE SHOW CHANGES NAME
When utility professionals converge on Louisville, Kty., on Sept. 28 to 30, 2021, they will find more education, more equipment manufacturers and service providers with the utility industry in mind and an all-new name: the Utility Expo.
“Over the years, ICUEE has become the utility industry’s premier platform for growth and we are continuously looking for new ways to help the show deliver even more value for top manufacturers, service providers and utility professionals. And that starts with the new name – The Utility Expo,” said John Rozum, show director. This all-inclusive name better reflects the Utility Expo experience, an event that introduces professionals from all utility sectors to the new equipment, ideas and innovations they need all in one place.
“We listened to our attendees and exhibitors and are building an industry event to help them grow their businesses,” said Dave Hughes, vice-president of global sales for McElroy Manufacturing and the Utility Expo 2021 show chair. “We are focused on continuing to improve the overall experience for all show participants and have some very exciting changes in store for 2021. Our new name reflects our commitment and focus on the utility industry.”
ICUEE, now the Utility Expo, can trace its beginnings to the mid-1960s, when Illinois Bell invited 12 trencher manufacturers to demonstrate equipment on the same day in the same field in Elburn, Ill. Since that time, the show’s demonstration concept has been a defining characteristic of the event.
IPAF CONFIRMS BOARD VIA ONLINE CONFERENCE
A new presidential team has been confirmed for the International Powered Access Federation, with Norty Turner of United Rentals officially instated during the federation’s 2020 AGM, held for the first time ever as a virtual meeting owing to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic on April 23. Norty Turner succeeded Brad Boehler, who stepped down in October 2019 after leaving his role with Skyjack, while Karin Nars of Dinolift was confirmed as IPAF deputy president and JLG’s Karel Huijser was named vice-president. Nick Selley of AFI-Uplift continues in an ex officio role on the IPAF board, while three new members of the IPAF board that were seconded last year were also officially confirmed in place: Pedro Torres of Riwal, Julie Houston Smyth of Lolex and Ben Hirst of Horizon Platforms. The AGM was the first since Peter Douglas took up the post as IPAF CEO and managing director in December 2019.
In his inaugural address, Turner said: “I would like to reiterate our thanks to Brad Boehler, who selflessly stepped down last year after leaving his role with Skyjack. His tenure as president was shorter than planned, but his leadership and dynamism over many years with the Federation will not be forgotten and we at IPAF wish him well in his future endeavours. It is traditional for an incoming IPAF president to set out some key objectives for their term in office. Of course my first priority, working together with the IPAF board, council and senior management, will be to support our entire team and
all the federation’s members worldwide through this global public health crisis and to assist our industry in whatever way we can to recover from this challenging situation as quickly as possible. Beyond that I am particularly looking forward to supporting Peter and the rest of the team in increasing sustainability in our industry, embracing and integrating new technology into everything we do. The way the world learns is evolving due to the pandemic and, ever adaptable, IPAF will bring forward new innovations, including but not limited to a digital app for operators and managers, paperless IPAF courses and adapting more of IPAF’s training program into both eLearning and virtual reality applications. Additionally, I will keep championing initiatives such as the IPAF Roadmap to Qualified Service Technician or Engineer Status.”
NPK CELEBRATES 35 YEARS IN BUSINESS
In 1985 with just six employees, NPK Construction Equipment was opened just outside of Cleveland, Ohio, to serve as a distributor of NPK’s construction and demolition attachments throughout the western hemisphere. The NPKCE team worked diligently to promote the NPK brand in the western market where it was not yet widely known. A comprehensive network of dealers was assembled across North and South America by partnering with dealerships of various construction and demolition carrier OEMs that NPK attachments could be fitted to – many of whom are still loyal distribution partners to this day. Over the next four years demand for NPK attachments began to grow at a rate that outpaced production, so in 1989 NPKCE purchased a manufacturing facility to begin producing some components and products in the United States, which upped the employee count to 45. The company evolved from an importer and distributor into a full-fledged OEM manufacturer. NPKCE continued to grow by expanding product lines as well as acquiring or expanding on facilities throughout Ohio and into other states as the need arose. By 2009, NPKCE had grown to over 85 employees spread out among three interrelated buildings all within walking distance of one another to streamline the production process. In 2013, NPKCE acquired its long time machining partner, Holmes Manufacturing, increasing the number of employees to over 100. In 2016, an addition was added to the manufacturing facility to expand
the unit assembly area as well as add additional space for the machining division to relocate to the building group. This meant that the fabrication, machining and assembly divisions were all under one roof, making production even more efficient. NPKCE made investments outside of Ohio as well. In 2012, when the company found itself without a dealer to serve customers in Georgia, NPK Demotrax was introduced in Norcross, Ga. NPK Demotrax served not only as a sales distributor, but also as a service and rental facility for customers throughout the state. In 2018, when a new dealer was signed on for the state of Georgia, the facility was sold as an addition to the three branches the company already had across the state. Late in 2013, NPKCE entered into a partnership with German mining equipment manufacturer, Hermann Paus Maschinenfabrik to serve as a distributor for Paus’s mining vehicle line in North America. The number of employees grew to over 125. In 2019, the opportunity arose for yet another acquisition. Genesis Attachments, Genesis and Genesis Holdings were on the market and NPKCE jumped at the opportunity to obtain an additional attachment company with a reputation for the same drive for customer satisfaction and high-quality manufacturing standards as the NPK group. Genesis Attachments is located in Superior, Wis., and has been in operation since 1997. With over 125 additional employees from Genesis businesses, the employee count for NPKCE companies is now over 250.
INDUSTRY NEWS
COVID MAY BE COMPENSATED BY WCB
Provincial workers compensation boards around the country say they may allow compensation claims for confirmed COVID-19 infections contracted in workplaces. Whether an infection was obtained at work will be adjudicated on a case-by-case basis. The policies are generally similar across the country.
The Ontario WSIB website says, “For a COVID-19 claim to be allowed, evidence must show that the person’s risk of contracting the disease through their employment is greater than the risk to which the public at large is exposed and that work significantly contributed to the person’s illness.”
The Alberta WCB fact sheet says, “However, if you are not at greater risk than the general public of contracting the infection, do not report. Examples include people who believe they caught the COVID-19 virus from a co-worker or client.” Alberta goes on to say, “A claim is likely to be accepted if a worker contracts the illness and is performing what the province deems to be an ‘essential service’ that puts them in regular contact with the general public. A worker will also likely be covered in the event of a widespread outbreak at their place of work.” Alberta lists its criteria for determining if a COVID claim is allowable as follows: “The nature of employment involves sufficient exposure to the source of infection; and the nature of employment is shown to be the cause of the condition; or the nature of employment creates a greater risk of exposure for the worker.”
Quebec probably has the most comprehensive explanation of its approach: “Yes, workers who become infected with COVID-19 as a result of or in the course of their work may be entitled to the usual benefits and services provided under the Act respecting industrial accidents and occupational diseases (AIAOD). In addition, the COVID-19 claims process has been adjusted based on the risk associated with the work...For all other workers not performing high-risk tasks in front-line health care settings...proof that COVID19 was contracted in the workplace must be established by a preponderance of evidence. For all COVID-19 claims, the worker must consult a physician to obtain a medical certificate confirming the diagnosis. However, in exceptional cases, the CNESST may process a claim for a confirmed or probable COVID-19 infection if the worker completes the Worker’s Claim form, declares that they are a carrier of COVID-19 and have received a positive test result or have been ordered to self-isolate by a nurse. The worker must notify their employer as soon as possible. The worker must demonstrate that they came into contact with the virus through or in the course of their work. The work connection must be demonstrated in a conclusive manner. The CNESST’s decision will take into account the specifics of each claim.”
WorkSafeBC says employers are not obligated to report COVID infections in their staff if they don’t feel they meet the criteria. “Report it if it meets the specific criteria,” their FAQ says. “As shown in the examples, if your employees are at significantly greater risk than the general public of contracting the virus while at work, and the employee loses time from work after contracting the virus, report the claim to WorkSafeBC. However, if your employees are not at greater risk than the general public of contracting the infection, you do not need to file a report unless WorkSafeBC requests a report.”
UNDER THE WEATHER
The American Rental Association reported 80 per cent of its party and event members said the pandemic had caused them to decrease their spending on equipment at all price points. It also found 56 per cent of Canadian event members had applied to the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy and 74 per cent had applied for Canada Emergency Business Account assistance. Intentions to purchase equipment declined for between 40 and 55 per cent of industrial and tool rental members, depending on the price category. Fifty-two per cent have used the CEWS and about 40 per cent have applied for CEBA. The survey was conducted in the week of May 8.
TEAM GROWS AT CANADIAN RENTAL SERVICE
Sukanya Ray Ghosh has joined Canadian Rental Service as associate editor. In the role, she will assist editor Patrick Flannery with all aspects of producing the magazine, including posting online content, writing for the print issue, reaching out to industry experts for interviews and comments and hosting podcasts and live events like the Canadian Rental Mart. Ghosh comes to the magazine from the automotive world where she was writer and editor for CarCare Business, Collision Management and TireNews.
“It’s exciting to have Sukanya join the team, and goodness knows I could use the help,” said Flannery. “She’s got a great grounding in B2B journalism and I know she’s going to love the friendly rental people. Her addition to the team will enable us to produce even more great content in our channels and solidify this magazine’s status as the official voice of the Canadian rental industry.
Ghosh has a Masters in English literature from Calcutta University and a post-graduate degree in journalism from Asian College of Journalism. She will work from Annex Business Media’s North offices in Markham, Ont.
EquipmentWatch is a trusted source for heavy equipment data and intelligence, producing leading database information products for the construction equipment industry. It is a world leader in heavy construction research and serves more than 15,000 professional, high-volume users of construction and lift-truck data. Find more heavy equipment intelligence at equipmentwatch.com.
Cross-Canada Rate Report
look
The Cross-Canada Rate Report is provided to Canadian Rental Service as a free service to the Canadian rental industry. Rates data shown are national averages generated by quarterly surveys of 441 Canadian rental stores. Rates shown are reported list rates and may not reflect the actual charges to any particular customer. For in-depth analysis and a chance to interact with EquipmentWatch researchers, register for the quarterly webinar at canadianrentalservice.com > Webinars.
Number of rental companies: 54
Number of stores: 460
Number of rates collected in Q1 2020: 98299
NO-CONTACT RENTALS
Business at a distance may become the new normal.
Every so often in history, a momentous event takes place that changes the way the world operates on a day-to-day basis forever. After the September 11 terrorist attacks in the U.S., airline travel and security around the globe was changed forever.
by ANDREW SNOOK
The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic is another one of those global events. And you can be certain that some aspects of our day-to-day lives will never be the same even after this virus is contained.
Equipment rental houses have been finding any way they can to adapt to the current pandemic to keep their operations running while ensuring the safety of their employees and customers. While some of those precautions and strategies taken by companies will likely loosen once the curve flattens and the virus is contained, many will stick around on a permanent basis. One example you’ll likely see stick around after the pandemic is over is heightened sanitation practices.
SANITATION AND DISINFECTION
Sanitation and proper hygiene practices have come to the forefront during the current pandemic. This isn’t to say that equipment rental houses and their customers ran dirty operations before COVID-19 reared its ugly head, but the topic of hygiene has definitely become a top priority.
“I believe COVID-19 has demonstrated the need for proper hygiene and sanitation going forward. Ensuring worksites going forward have access to clean restroom facilities and handwash stations will be paramount,” says Blake Menning, vice-president of All-Choice Rentals. “All Choice Rentals has seen a dramatic increase in calls and quotation requests for those such items, in addition to increased cleaning schedules. I think it is important, and always will be important, to offer good, clean sanitized equipment so customers
can have peace of mind when operating your equipment.”
At All Choice Rentals’ three locations across Alberta (Drayton Valley, Rocky Mountain House and Hinton), equipment upon return undergoes a rigorous, three-step sanitation process. Equipment is brought into a wash bay and sprayed with a chemical disinfectant and left to sit for 30 to 60 minutes. It is then washed with hot, soapy water and left to dry. Afterwards, the equipment is stored for the next customer and is given a final coating of disinfectant.
Inside all three of the company’s rental stores, hand sanitizer stations have been set up at the entrances. Once installed, these types of minor changes are unlikely to be removed by most companies.
“I could see hand satiation stations being kept up permanently,” says Colin White, co-owner of A World of Rentals in Kingston, Ont.
White says there will certainly be stronger
Many stores are using caution tape to rope o a central aisle down the middle of the store to keep people from wandering around the showroom and touching things
A lot of stores are going to e-signature apps that allow customers to accept contracts online.
Everyone’s having to disinfect all the equipment when it comes back
Some stores have built plexiglass windows mounted on desks so their sta can take ID and credit cards without exposure
sterilization procedures for equipment rentals at his location moving forward. He doesn’t expect his company to keep to the current pandemic-level procedures once the virus is contained; but is planning on permanently placing stronger cleaning procedures in place for every aspect of the store.
“Even in the lunchroom,” he says. “Even simple things like removing using stir sticks where everyone sticks their hands in a box and using a clean spoon instead.”
DISTANCING
Employee workstations at A World of Rentals have been separated and every employee now has their own computers and phones to avoid sharing office equipment.
“Now that we’ve got it in place, we’re not going back,” White says. “We’ve got to keep moving forward.”
His company recently installed a plexiglass workstation for accepting customer credit cards and driver’s licenses while keeping a barrier between customers and employees. White says he’s not sure how often it will be used after the pandemic, but does see the potential value for it during certain times of the year.
“For flu season that could be helpful,” he says, adding that other little changes the company is currently doing could be helpful in the future; like allowing one pen per customer and then putting them into a box to be cleaned. “We’ll probably keep a lot of things we’ve got in play right now.”
In Richmond, Que., Location Moreau
E-SIGNATURE OPPORTUNITY
E-signatures are becoming increasing popular across a variety of industries during the pandemic. In the rental industry in particular, having a signature on a contract is vital.
“In a rental environment, the contract is super important. People can get hurt, they can die using the equipment; or just not want to pay; or want to keep your equipment, convert your equipment and claim there was no rule that said that they couldn’t,” says Point of Rental software CEO, Wayne Harris. “There’s bad people in this world and bad people are going to take an opportunity during this time to take advantage of companies that are not set to handle that.”
To help the rental industry during the pandemic, Point of Rental is offering companies an opportunity to try out their e-signature free of charge with the opportunity to cancel anytime, no strings attached.
“It’s impossible to maintain social distancing and not pass off any germs if you are sharing paper, and you’re sharing pens, and you’re passing that stuff back and forth, you just can’t do it. You really need an electronic signature routine,” Harris says.
has also set up a plexiglass barrier; but the owners aren’t certain they would keep it after the pandemic has been contained.
“I don’t know about the plexiglass, I really hate to speak through it,” says André Moreau, co-owner of Location Moreau. “It kind of stops the human interaction, it makes me sad.”
Location Moreau has also set up a specific drop point with directions for customers for the company’s equipment returns as a starting point for decontamination practices. The drop-off practice will likely remain in effect post-pandemic.
“The signs and directions will stay for sure,” says André Moreau, co-owner of Location Moreau. “Right now, everything is washed and disinfected. But after the pandemic, regular washing will come back, I guess. When? I don’t know.”
REMOTE ORDERING
Having the flexibility to offer online ordering gave some companies a competitive advantage during the pandemic.
At GTA Rentals in Oakville, Ont., which already accepted orders through its website and other online channels, order placement disruption was minimal.
“We do anything online,” says Wess Ettore, co-founder of GTA Rentals. “We take orders on Instagram, Facebook, some guys like to text. For us, everything is as normal as it can be.”
All Choice Rentals created contactless options for customers’ rental contracts during the pandemic, where customers
could obtain their rental contracts via email and had the option of modifying it remotely or in person. Anyone that came into the store to sign their contracts were given a pen to sign the documents that they could take with them afterwards. The company also started offering contactless delivery of their equipment.
“I believe businesses that had the ability to offer products or quote requests through online ordering and curb side delivery had a significant advantage over businesses that were unable to provide such services,” Menning says. “I think there will always be a need for brick and mortar rental stores, but the societal trend is moving towards a faceless economy with Amazon and online ordering. Rental companies will need to adapt and possibly offer a hybrid approach to cater to all individuals.”
lot of stores are going to e-signature apps that allow customers to accept contracts online. Everyone’s
To manage orders during the pandemic, some rental houses needed to adapt quickly and offer remote rental order
A lot of stores are going to e-signature apps that allow customers to accept contracts online.
Everyone’s having to disinfect all the equipment when it comes back
Many stores are using caution tape to rope o a central aisle down the middle of the store to keep people from wandering around the showroom and touching things
A
Some stores on desks
options either over the phone or via email.
Location Moreau recently started up an online ordering system, although André is uncertain of how effective it will be due to his current relationships with his customers.
“I sell a lot directly at the shop,” he says. “Maybe because I’m in a remote area.”
A World of Rentals does not have an online booking system, but it’s something the company is considering. Currently, the company is taking orders remotely through phone and email bookings, then prepping the equipment and getting it ready to go via its drive-thru pick-up system.
“It’s time-consuming for a new customer, like a homeowner, but any existing customers, account customers, really appreciate that they can call in and have everything ready for when they arrive,” White says, adding that his company may keep this enhanced service offering on a permanent basis moving forward.
Point of Rental software CEO Wayne Harris says that every rental company needs to have a strong online presence moving forward.
“There’s just no reason not to. It could be that your 60-year-old customer doesn’t go to your online presence, but I guarantee you that anybody that’s under 40 or 35, they’re going to be online first and they’re going to go look at your presence online before they ever pick up the phone. You’ve got to have that online presence,” he says.
For drive-thru rental services, Harris says that rental houses should take advantage of their customers’ smartphones and essentially use them as kiosks to place
orders via a company’s website before coming to the store. Depending on the complexity of a company’s website, customers can now use their smartphones to place orders, sign rental agreements and make payments, so employees only need to load their vehicles once they arrive at the store, making the experience completely contactless.
ALWAYS BE READY TO ADAPT
White says that the most important thing he’s learned from his experience managing operations during the COVID19 pandemic is that his company has the ability to change.
“We have the ability to change and adapt quickly. We know there are more waves coming. We know what we need to do moving forward, for the short- to mid-term,” he says. “Customers appreciate that you go out of your way to make things safer for everybody.”
“I think it is important to be able to adapt and shift to whatever life those at us and continue to think of creative ways to stay ahead of the curve so that you are ready for the next roadblock,” Menning says.
“It’s a delicate balance between common good and living half a life,” adds André Moreau. “The virus will never be gone, I guess. We’ll control it, but it’ll never gone. The challenge is to protect the weak and live a busy life at the same time. We are all learning something new and every day brings a new challenge. As always, I’ll just listen to the most important people in the rental industry – or any industries, in fact – the customer.” CRS
a
Some stores have built plexiglass windows mounted on desks so their sta can take ID and credit cards without exposure
Even in the contactless rental store, some contact happens. That’s where the hand sanitizer comes in.
COUNTER TALKS
Join Canadian Rental Service’s editor Patrick Flannery as he talks to prominent people and top experts about issues and opinions, challenges and solutions, tips and tricks to help your business. Counter Talks is where you’ll hear the voices of our industry.
RECENT EPISODES:
• How Are We Doing and Where Are We Going, with pandemic response expert Suzanne Bernier
• Pandemic Payment, with government funding expert, Bonny Koabel
• Setting Up a Contactless Rental Store, with Wayne Harris CEO of Point of Rental
• Corona Coverage, with receivables insurance experts Carl Pickett and Roch Simard, AU Group
and
DEF STORAGE SOLUTION TIPS
How to ensure clean, quality DEF delivery.
There’s no denying that Tier IV regulations have begun to impact the equipment industry. As new Tier IV-compliant equipment rolls into equipment rental fleets, it’s important to consider how the strategies engine manufacturers use to meet Tier IV emission requirements impact the needs both on the rental yard and for customers on the jobsite.
by JOHN CLEARY Western Global national sales manager – rental and equipment channel
The fluid connection panel on a Cummins generator demonstrates the connection points between the machine and the auxiliary DEF.
Tier IV engines and their requirement of diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) present their own set of challenges. The risk of contamination and fluid freezing are concerns presented to rental branches and contractors. But there are ways to combat these issues and with the right storage solutions, rental branches can provide the safest and most efficient options for customers.
ENSURING RENTAL READY
The first way new DEF requirements affect rental branches is right on the yard in prepping equipment to be rental-ready. With an already long checklist of maintenance and preparation tasks for equipment rental, ensuring DEF tanks are filled before that gear is green-tagged adds one more box to check. Currently, many rental branches are purchasing their DEF in
cardboard boxes filled with 2 1/2-gallon jugs. The boxes are stored inside and jugs are manually hauled and poured into the appropriate equipment. Because DEF is very sensitive to contaminants, this process presents many hazards and opportunity for contamination.
As the number of Tier IV units on the yard grows and the need for DEF expands, rental branches are looking for safer and more efficient ways to handle the DEF challenges on their yard. Already familiar with incorporating larger stationary fuel tanks at the branch for fueling needs, many rental branches have looked for similar solutions for DEF – storage tanks that can sit next to their fuel tanks and seamlessly integrate into the rental-ready process.
DEF storage tanks diminish the risk of contamination by providing a sealed connection for filling the tank and a faster method for
The 105-gallon TransCube from Western Global offers an effective way to deliver DEF to remote jobsites.
storage tanks from Western Global provide rental centers with on-site fluid to get their fleet rental-ready.
transferring the fluid to equipment tanks. With a specially designed dispensing system to fill the fluid in the equipment’s tank, operators decrease the chance for contamination of product. It also eliminates the opportunity for contaminants to be picked up on the boxes during storage or on the cap of the jug. Bulk fuel and fluid distributors deliver quality fluid to the rental branch and are equipped with specialty connectors to ensure no contamination enters the fluid in the transfer process. The distributor also ensures the fluid is always supplied without the rental service manager having to constantly track and buy boxes or jugs of material.
To further decrease the chance of contamination, rental yard crews must be trained on the contamination issues and how to limit exposure to contaminants. This should include making sure the cover of the equipment tank is clean before opening and avoiding filling the tank in windy, dusty conditions. Even the smallest particles can damage the entire tank of fluid.
Contamination isn’t the only concern. DEF is also sensitive to cold temperatures and susceptible to freezing at minus-11 C. Although freezing won’t destroy the chemical composition of the fluid, it will render it useless until it thaws out, which could have devastating effects on equipment utilization and customer relations. DEF storage and pumping solutions offer optional heating systems to ensure the fluid is always at ideal operating temperatures.
Tank options on the market range from 400 gallons to 1,300 gallons, allowing rental branches to choose a tank size to match their fleet. Estimating the exact need can be difficult and requires careful consideration not just of the fleet today, but of expected changes in the fleet over the next three to five years. By understanding the size of the fleet with DEF requirements, the additional plans for equipment acquisition and a general understanding of the overall utilization of this equipment, rental centers can evaluate and decide on the tank size that best matches their needs.
The challenges of DEF for rental extend beyond preparing the fleet to be rental-ready. As full-service solution providers, many rental branches are looking to provide DEF solutions on the jobsite for their contractors, especially in remote, continuous-run applications.
ADDING AUXILIARY JOBSITE DEF STORAGE
More equipment with DEF requirements in the rental fleet means more DEF requirements on the jobsite. As rental
branches have expanded their offering into portable fuel tanks to increase customer efficiency, many see a need and profit opportunity for onsite DEF solutions as well. This is especially true in applications with continuous-run requirements, like generators, pumps, compressors and heaters.
Portable fuel tanks have long been a profitable and necessary accompaniment to generator rentals – especially in remote locations. But the simplicity of integration and operation of fuel storage tanks does not hold true for DEF solutions. With auxiliary fueling solutions, the engine draws fuel directly from the auxiliary fuel tank, completely bypassing the onboard fuel tank. With DEF, the engine always consumes the fluid via its own onboard tank, which is then continually refilled by the auxiliary DEF storage tank. This requires communication between the equipment being refilled and the auxiliary DEF storage tank, resulting in the need for a control system integrated into the generator, pump, compressor and other components.
Working to meet the needs of customers, rental branches have been instrumental in bringing generator and tank manufacturers together to develop and standardize connection panels and control systems to provide an easy and seamless integration system. The design incorporates sensors in the generator to trigger the auxiliary DEF tank when the equipment’s onboard tank reaches low level. The auxiliary DEF tank’s pump then kicks in to refill the generator’s onboard tank until the set capacity is reached, at which point the equipment’s sensors trigger the pump to turn off. This fully contained filling system also prevents contamination of the fluid.
Because of the two- to three-per cent consumption rate of DEF to fuel, a 100-gallon DEF tank often provides plenty of supply for a continuous-run generator, extending the fill time to weekly, which matches the fueling requirements.
Currently, there are standardized connections and control systems on Generac, Cummins, and Doosan generators. Western Global, a manufacturer of fuel and fluid storage solutions, engineered a DEF tank, the TransCube DEF, designed around that standardization providing a simple solution for extended-run operations.
The future impact of EPA emissions regulations or even the long-term outlook for DEF systems is unknown, but rental branches are faced with finding solutions to serve customers in today’s working environment. Systems do exist to seamlessly integrate both on the yard and on the jobsite and a few simple considerations make tackling this challenge relatively easy. CRS
LEFT:
RIGHT: The BluePro
AN ENTREPRENEUR TO THE KOR
A keen eye for opportunity behind Kor Rentals.
To say that Anthony Aantjes keeps himself busy would be the understatement of the year. The owner of Kor Rentals in Wellandport, Ont., wears about as many hats as one can balance on their head.
by ANDREW SNOOK
Working in a larger group of companies gives employees like Brittany Tiersma opportunities to bring skills from one shop to another.
In addition to owning his equipment rental store servicing the construction sector throughout the Niagara Region, Aantjes owns and operates Anthony’s Excavating Central, a 16-year-old, full-service excavation company, and Ontario Agra Piping and Supplies, a landscape materials, piping and plastic tank supplier he started up five years ago.
It was his workload at Anthony’s Excavating – which has grown over the past 16 years to having 20 full-time employees – that created the opportunity for the creation of Kor Rentals just two-and-a-half years ago.
“Anthony’s Excavating was too busy to do all the work we were getting, so I offered our extra equipment to local farmers to use by the hour, and we grew slowly from there,” Aantjes
explains. “Soon after that we set up Kor. I couldn’t keep up with the demand on my own.” Kor Rentals currently employs four full-time staff and focuses on serving the construction sector. Its current fleet includes over 15 skid steers, about a dozen full-sized and mini-excavators, several haul trucks and backhoes, aerial workplace platforms, as well as other types of heavy equipment.
Getting the company up and running while managing two other companies certainly offered up some challenges. The biggest one was ensuring Kor Rentals had the inventory required to support all the needs of Aantjes’ clients.
“We have learned what machines we need to get more of, so we can fulfill our customers
needs,” Aantjes says, adding that his 20 years of experience operating, buying and selling heavy equipment has certainly given him some advantages in working in the equipment rental space. “I have a good advantage to have good equipment bought at the right price, and good guys to fix them to get them to 100 per cent. From there we rent at a good price, but we also have the ability to sell good used rental equipment to our renters or anyone. We are excited for any new businesses and we will buy the equipment that is needed to service our customers. We like the challenge.”
To stay up to date on the latest technologies in the equipment rental industry, as well as for his other two businesses, Aantjes works closely with larger excavation companies, listens to them, and watches for any potential new ideas that could optimize his fleets or his businesses. When something comes up that sounds intriguing, Aantjes and his teams will do their own research to see if something is a good fit for his businesses.
When asked what his long-term and short-term goals are for the equipment rental store, Aantjes says his focus is taking
care of their current customers and growing with them. He says his favourite aspect of being in the equipment rental space is finding ways to meet his clients’ needs.
“Being able to help others with their operations, whether Kor Rentals is helping a business, a business owner, or a homeowner” is the goal. “We are so happy to see others succeed,” Aantjes says.
FINDING GOOD PEOPLE
One advantage of having three separate companies is that when you have a good staff member at one of the businesses, they can potentially help out and find new career opportunities at the other ones. This is what happened for Brittney Tiersma, who worked for Anthony’s Excavating for six months right out of graduating Niagara College with a twoyear diploma in office administration before joining Kor Rentals over a year ago.
“Anthony asked if I would take this on and I said, ‘Yes,’” Tiersma says during a chat at the rental store. “I do all the invoicing and manage the phones. I really like being personal with the customers. I know a lot of the customers by name.”
Tiersma is still involved with
Anthony’s Excavating, which helps her with managing the rental fleet.
“I know which jobs need which types of machines,” she says, explaining that sometimes equipment is shared between the two companies so this information can be vital.
When Aantjes first started up Kor Rentals, he says finding good people that were the right fit to run the store provided some challenges, but now that is a thing of the past.
“We are happy with our staff now,” Aantjes says.
Tiersma says she has always been treated very well at both companies and enjoys the culture there that flows from the top down.
“You aren’t treated like an employee, you’re treated like family,” she says, adding that watching how Aantjes works to grow his companies inspires her to do her part to make Kor Rentals a success. “Seeing that in your boss makes you want to work harder for yourself and help them succeed, because you see them working so hard.”
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
Starting up three separate companies and having them run successfully is an
Anthony Aantjes brings a farmer’s work ethic to his three companies, and relies on staff he treats like family.
impressive feat for anyone to accomplish. But in the case of Aantjes, it is especially impressive since he didn’t have any assets to start his first company from. Everything he’s accomplished stems from his strong work ethic and a willingness to branch out on his own and take risks at a young age. His first experience with equipment rental came at the young age of 14, when he saved up $10,000 catching, loading and slaughtering wild turkeys and invested it into a mini-excavator he operated on his parents’ dairy farm in Wellandport.
“I asked Dad, ‘If I buy an old backhoe, would you pay me $8 an hour instead of the $15 per hour from a rental yard?’” Aantjes recalls.
His father knew a deal when he saw one and agreed to rent the equipment from his son, which Aantjes operated on and off the farm for various people in the community.
“Most of the work I got was for snow removal,” Aantjes says.
He says that a strong work ethic, honesty and the importance of treating people fairly were lessons instilled to him
at a very young age by his mother and father, and those lessons are big part of why he is succeeding today.
“When I grew up on the farm, you didn’t get handouts,” Aantjes says. “It helps build character and teaches you to work hard.”
In addition to heavier equipment for construction, Kor carries a full selection of lighter machinery useful to any farmer, light contractor or homeowner. Compactors, brush chippers, aerial lifts, concrete saws, generators, lights, pumps and heaters round out the fleet. The company also offers a full-time floating service with several tractor-trailers ready to go.
The Kor offering fits its market.
Wellandport is located in Ontario’s Niagara Penninsula region with some of the best farmland in the country.
Flat and rural, the area was a famous fruit-growing region before being almost entirely turned over to wineries in the last few decades. Still, there’s significant cash crop farming going on and industry along the Welland canal. St. Catharines is the nearest big city. It used to be a strong manufacturing centre, especially
for automotive with General Motors, but most of that is gone now. Instead, housing and commercial development drive what has become almost a bedroom community for Toronto. Kor’s mix of heavy equipment and more portable weekend rentals fits the bill for rural and suburban residents alike.
When asked if he performs any charitable work within the communities he services across the Niagara Region, Aantjes’ answer is characteristically humble.
“Kor Rentals, Ontario Agra and Anthony’s Excavating does, but we believe not to tell others about what we do or how much we give,” he says. “This is between God and us, and He will bless us for giving in secret. We don’t look to others to praise us for our good deeds. We just do the best we can in business and treat others as we would like to be treated.” CRS
For more industry profiles, visit canadianrentalservice.com > Features > Profiles
REACH NEW HEIGHTS
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by Russ Dantu
AT YOUR SERVICE
A gift of time
For all it’s taken away, one thing the pandemic has given us is time.
For those of you who have been able to continue working in some or full capacity during this pandemic, congratulations! For those of you living in provinces or territories where some restrictions are being lifted shortly, that is also wonderful news. It’s more important now than ever before that you look after your customers as they likely have lots of options as to where they can take their business. Price gouging will almost always lead to customers finding a new supplier and leaving you for good, so do your homework before raising your prices, and go the extra mile right now to ensure you are keeping your customers happy.
For those of you still suffering, my heart truly goes out to you as I am right there with you trying to navigate this financial hit. As much as we can sit and panic about our future (and believe me, it’s in the back of my mind daily), why not try to maintain a positive outlook? I ask you to consider the three R’s to help your mindset while dealing with downtime during this pandemic.
Relax – I am used to going 60 miles an hour from the time I start working around 5 a.m. most mornings until I am done at five or six or 10 some days. Having this new-found luxury of time on my hands has given me some time to put my feet up and watch a bit more tv, work on some home projects on my wife’s “To-Do” list that hasn’t been touched for about five months, and to even get a bit more sleep on some days. Meditation, deep breathing, yoga, listening to music, reading a book, going for a nice walk are all ways to relax. Find out what works for you and commit to a few hours a day of relaxation.
Reflection – It’s easy to focus on the negative impact on what is happening right now but that puts us in a foul mood and can lead to depression. Try each morning to take some time and reflect on the good things in your life. Your family, pets, friends, mentors, customers, suppliers – where you live, what you own, etc. Taking a few minutes at the beginning of each day to acknowledge three things we are grateful for doesn’t take a lot of time but sets us up nicely for a more positive day. My good friend and fellow speaker, Steve Foran, is the
founder of Gratitude at Work (gratitudeatwork.ca/ steve) and has done years of research on the topic. He makes a living by teaching the habits of gratefulness. I encourage you to check out his website as it may help guide you in reflection.
Reinvention – While many of us have so much downtime, it is the perfect time to reinvent yourselves, whether it is business or personal. For your business, explore new avenues to add to your wares. Can you expand on the products and services you offer? Can you team up with another business that is beneficial to you both? What are your competitors doing right now to stay afloat? It might be a good time to check that out. Listen into business podcasts and webinars and touch base with every customer and supplier to see how they are doing. This will keep you top of mind if something comes up where they can use your services or refer you to someone.
On the personal side, why not recreate you? You’ve likely been doing things the same way for a number of years because you are flat out too busy to even consider changing some of what you do. Here’s a few suggestions (and yes, I am doing as much of this in my life as possible). Start a daily workout schedule. Check out webinars that may help you personally (fitness or home improvements). Clean out every cupboard and room – you might just find some hidden treasures you had forgotten about. Spend more time with your partner and kids doing fun stuff like playing board games or outdoor activities. Get your yard in the best shape it has ever been. Complete home improvement projects that you can do by yourself.
Time is a precious commodity and hopefully, before we know it, we can all get back to work, make money and really appreciate how much we have missed our customers. Make the most of this time and you will reap the benefits later, both professionally and personally. CRS
Russ Dantu is a 30-year veteran of the rental industry and has been delivering workshops, seminars and keynotes on customer service for over 15 years. Visit russdantu.com.
DRILL SIDEWAYS
Increase auger versatility with horizontal drilling.
Sometimes the easiest way to get through a problem is to go under it. Whether installing landscape features, fencing or cable, obstacles like sidewalks and driveways can present a challenge to simple trenching methods.
by MIKE HALE sales and marketing manager, Little Beaver
Wet and dry drilling attachments turn a standard mechanical drill into a tool for getting under obstacles with minimal landscape disturbance.
Manual methods are always an option, but today’s rental customers are looking for ways to make their projects easier. With a horizontal boring drill attachment, they can easily tackle obstacles with very little landscape disturbance.
By offering an attachment that pairs with a mechanical earth drill, rental centres are providing more options so customers can conveniently complete more projects. The drill and attachment combination makes it easy to accomplish just about any drilling – vertically or horizontally.
ATTACHMENT REQUIREMENTS
Many mechanical drills currently on the market lack flexibility when it comes to adding a
horizontal boring option, so it’s important to do some homework up front to ensure the necessary features. The main component required to transition a drill from vertical to horizontal drilling is a flexible drive shaft. This allows the operator to orient the handle to the appropriate angle for horizontal boring.
Depending on a customer’s project and planned use for the drill, rental centres can help determine which horizontal boring kit is most appropriate – a dry auger kit or a wet drilling kit.
SIDEWALK BORING: DRY AUGER KIT
When drilling shorter distances – such as under a sidewalk – a dry auger kit is recommended. This option allows users to bore
four feet in less than a minute. Some manufacturers offer this kit as a five-foot auger with a three-inch diameter bit.
A three-inch diameter hole provides a perfectly sized channel for most low-voltage electrical, plumbing and water lines, making this kit a great choice for small-scale landscaping projects. Beyond that, contractors and homeowners can easily install landscape lighting wire, water softener lines, sprinkler systems, gas lines and more.
DRIVEWAY BORING: WET DRILLING KIT
With a wet drilling kit, rental centres can provide customers with a solution to bore up to 50 feet. A wet drill can bore under a 30-foot driveway in as little as 10 to 15 minutes and eliminates the need to break up established concrete or go around large pieces of cement.
As its name implies, the wet drilling kit requires the use of water. Low water pressure flushes the dirt and lubricates the hole to avoid collapse.
Often the kit comes with a variety of water drill bits, typically ranging in size between two and four inches. Similar to the sidewalk drill kit, a three-inch bit creates a large enough hole for most landscaping needs. When boring more than 10 or 15 feet, it’s recommended to start with a two-inch hole for better control. The opening can then be expanded with a wider bit for larger installation
requirements.
Wet drilling kits require a garden hose, a water pipe for the length of the bore plus 15 feet, along with necessary couplings. Rental centres should consider pairing these additional accessories with the auger kit rental, offering customers a one-stop-shop approach to completing a project.
TIPS FOR HORIZONTAL BORING SUCCESS
When it comes to soil types, here’s a general rule of thumb: if the soil can be shoveled manually, it can be removed with horizontal boring. The biggest obstacle users will come across is rocks in the soil, which will stop the drill from penetrating. If this happens, remove the drill and move to a different spot or drill a few inches lower. The typical drilling depth for horizontal boring – under both sidewalks and driveways – is six to eight inches.
If customers are drilling in sandy soil, it’s important to insert the guide pipe or wires right after the hole is drilled to avoid collapse.
A common outcome for first-time horizontal boring users is an uneven,
downward-angled hole. While this doesn’t necessarily make the hole unusable, it’s not ideal. To avoid an uneven bore, remind customers to dig a level guide trench. The starter trench should be long enough to fit the entire auger and only slightly wider, ensuring the drill doesn’t move around during operation. Before use, it can be evaluated with a level to guarantee a straight bore. The drill should be positioned in the very bottom of the trench and pressure should be continuously applied while drilling to maintain a tight fit.
No matter the scale of a customer’s project, it’s important to gather all the details and necessary equipment before beginning. Increased versatility equals increased profits and by adding horizontal boring attachments to rental offerings, the potential of renting out a larger machine escalates. With the right equipment, horizontal boring can be a breeze.
by TRIPP FARRELL, president, Blastcrete Equipment
GYPSUM SOLUTIONS
Equipment for pouring high-rise flooring.
Now that construction is getting back on track across the country, rental stores and their contractor customers are looking for ways to diversify their offerings and find new revenue streams to make up for a slow spring and uncertain demand going forward.
Renting gypsum pumps for high-rise flooring applications is an intriguing possibility, and one few stores have gotten into.
Before the pandemic, multi-family residential unit completions were at record numbers and showed little evidence of slowing down into 2020. Now, everything has slowed, but there’s no reason to believe this construction sector won’t return as quickly or more quickly than any other. These projects create an ideal environment for contractors looking to break into or grow their business in high-flow material markets with gypsum floor underlayment, grouting, cellular concrete, plaster and stucco applications. However, success in this field requires an investment in specialized equipment — a limiting factor for many bottom-line-conscious contractors. Renting is the way to offset these equipment costs. Recent
innovations in gypsum mixer/pumps have made these units more affordable, user-friendly and versatile than previous options. With the right equipment and customers, rental stores can see quick ROI and contractors can see increased efficiency.
Gypsum concrete – often referred to by its Maxxon brand-name, Gyp-Crete – is a popular material for flooring underlayment over wood and concrete substrates. It’s lightweight and fire-resistant and weighs less than Portland cement. It’s faster and easier to apply and level because it’s less viscous. Nails can even be driven into it without chipping. So it is not hard to see why gypsum cement is a popular material for high-rise flooring. It can be pumped up to the necessary floor and quickly spread to give the floor covering a level surface. It doesn’t produce dust on its surface the way concrete
The trailer is an underappreciated feature of a gypsum pump, since it’s critical for getting the equipment to the right spot on a job site. Especially important for rental units, of course.
does. But the big benefit is fire protec tion and sound reduction.
Applications requiring radiant in-floor heating are especially strong for gypsum. Regular concrete gradually destroys the copper tubing used for radiant heat, but gypsum concrete does not.
The time is now for gypsum concrete as improvements have been made to its formulation over the last 15 years or so. Gypsum concrete used to have a reputa tion as being soft and chalky compared to regular concrete. That just isn’t true any more. Newer formulations can actu ally have a higher compressive strength than concrete, even up to 10,000 psi. It’s also a binder that can be mixed with var ious sands and aggregates to create appli cation-specific surfaces. That’s where mixers and pumps come in.
Here are several key factors to con sider when selecting a gypsum mixer/ pump to maximize productivity and profitability.
PUMP TYPE
The type of pump is perhaps the most important feature to consider when investing in a gypsum mixer/pump. For contractors considering lower output gypsum applications such as radiant heat, smaller and more economical per istaltic/squeeze pumps can be used suc cessfully. However, squeeze pumps will surge, which results in a light interrup tion in material flow. Minimal surging can lead to splatter on drywall, resulting in unnecessary cleanup. The squeeze pump has a maximum 450 psi line pres sure which limits pumping distance to around 300 feet.
Rotor-stator pumps, on the other hand, provide continuous flow, eliminat ing surges and increasing productivity. These pumps can generate up to 600 psi of pumping pressure — about 30 per cent more than squeeze pumps — for pumping distances in excess of 150 feet vertically and 500 feet horizontally.
Recent advancements in rotor-stator technology led to the introduction of an adjustable rotor-stator pump with inline pressure gauge to the gypsum mixer/ pump market. This innovation allows contractors to adjust flow to meet a project’s unique requirements. Tightening the rotor-stator results in maximum pumping distances, which is ideal for high-rise and long-distance jobs. When
between most gypsum machines. The industry average is 12-cubic-foot mixers and pumping speeds well over 100 bags of gypsum per hour. Differences arise with a closer inspection of the spec sheets. Contractors looking to not pay for more than they need should contact manufacturers to walk through what features are necessary for their specific operation. For example, engine size can
play a huge part in price differentiation. Gypsum mixer/pumps range in size from 3,350 pounds (1,520 kilograms) with a 32-horsepower engine to nearly 10,000 pounds (4,536 kilograms) with a 100-horsepower engine. Exactly how much horsepower is necessary will depend on the target applications, so discussing options with OEM experts is important for making the most practical and economical decision. While gypsum mixer/pumps are not totally customizable, partnering with certain OEMs allows for a more personalized result, often with a significant cost savings over standard models.
SIMPLIFIED DESIGN
The saying “less is more” often applies to gypsum mixer/pumps. In addition to reducing the initial cost, selecting a reliable gypsum mixer/pump that does the basics and does them well often results in a user-friendly unit that’s easy to operate, maintain, and keep clean.
To make the most of an equipment investment, the machine needs to have high utilization. For contractors looking to operate at multiple jobsites with multiple crews, selecting a gypsum mixer/ pump with the essential components and no frills equates to less training, less downtime and less stress. Machines with a simple, intuitive design are easy to operate with minimal training. This opens up the door for maximum productivity since contractors can train several crew members and still deliver quality results.
Fewer moving parts also means less mess and less maintenance. A unit’s mixer is a good example of this. Most units feature either a paddle type mixer or a hydraulic spiral mixer. Both work quickly, mixing a full load in about two minutes. However, hydraulic spiral mixers offer a benefit over paddle mixers since they can operate at higher speeds without splashing or throwing material out of the mixer. This leads to increased productivity since crews are not spending unnecessary time cleaning. Additionally, the paddle-style mixers used in gypsum equipment usually have two mixer shafts, which doubles the moving parts. Compare this to a single planetary gearbox driving the spiral mixer. With features like spiral mixers, new gypsum mixer/pumps limit possible maintenance issues and unnecessary
downtime by minimizing moving parts. These time-savings aren’t limited to major maintenance. Proper cleaning is vital for any concrete pump, including gypsum equipment. The less there is to clean, the faster this process will be. Look for a model with easily accessible wear parts to make daily cleaning as efficient as possible. Some manufacturers have gone a step further to simplify maintenance by engineering a removable mixer and pump kit that simply detaches from the machine for the ease of cleaning and scheduled maintenance.
MANOEUVERABILITY
Transportability is another key consideration when selecting the right mixer/
pump combination. The larger and more remote the contractor’s service area, the more vital this becomes. Units featuring robust trailers for long-distance travel and a lighter footprint provide a more practical solution for extended service areas. For maximum maneuverability, look for a unit with a dual-axle highspeed towing trailer and tubular steel frame to enable safe travel on highways. Onsite manoeuverability is another area to keep in mind. Once the equipment has arrived, its placement and use can be quite the logistical challenge — especially on crowded jobsites. A gypsum pump with a smaller footprint can increase overall productivity. The charging process for different machines
Using a gypsum pump is a skilled task, but better designs include user-friendly features, such as easily accessed seals. Easy flow adjustment is also an important time-saving feature.
is a good example of this. Some models include a skip hoist to charge the mixer. The hoist is filled with sand and gypsum either by hand or with a skid steer bucket. When full, it rises and dumps into the mixer. This system requires sand and gypsum material to be stored near the pump and ample space for the hoist to manoeuver, limiting where contractors can set it up. Gypsum pumps without the skip hoist eliminate the additional step and can be charged directly with a specially designed skid-steer bucket. This not only saves time and energy, it allows contractors to set up sand and gypsum stockpiles in a separate location when space is at a premium.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
As with many equipment decisions, brand is an important factor to consider when selecting a gypsum mixer/pump. The right machine will ultimately be the one with the ideal combination of features and price, but the service and support behind that unit can’t be discounted. Partnering with a manufacturer that has a reputation for robust, high-quality
machines means operators can expect fewer breakdowns over its lifetime. Plus, when parts and service are required, knowing the team behind the brand is available 24/7 can be a huge relief. From fast delivery of parts to expert troubleshooting, dedicated OEMs help their customers increase efficiency.
MAKING THE RIGHT SELECTION
The surest route to success in any business starts with investing in the best equipment to get the job done quickly and efficiently. Recent advances are making it easier and more economical for first-time and veteran gypsum contractors to take this step, but there are still many factors to consider. From design to durability, selecting a gypsum mixer/pump for maximum productivity and profitability must begin with the contractor’s unique needs.
There are still relatively few certified gypsum concrete applicators around. But the sector is growing. With the booming construction market (when it gets going again) for multi-unit residential housing
and the advances in gypsum concrete technology, it is a technology that is sure to be on the rise.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tripp Farrell joined Blastcrete Equipment, LLC in 2000 and serves as president. In addition to his responsibilities in sales, he works in product design and conducts product demonstrations and training. He is also involved in advertising and marketing of the Blastcrete product line, as well as research and development and, most importantly, customer service.
ABOUT BLASTCRETE EQUIPMENT
Blastcrete Equipment, LLC has been manufacturing safe, reliable and user-friendly solutions for the refractory and shotcrete industries for nearly 70 years. With a complete product line consisting of concrete mixers, pumps and related products, the company serves the commercial and residential construction, ICF and SCIP building systems, refractory and underground markets. CRS
Loose, weak soil is everywhere in this country. Come to the rescue with these top compaction products.
COMPACTION SHOWCASE
UNIQUE BASE
8 toro.com
Toro’s lineup of forward plate compactors is designed with a unique base geometry, optimal eccentric placement, amplitude and VPMs that allow the unit to provide maximum compaction for stable, even surfaces. The forward plate compactors operate at speeds of 100 feet per minute and feature a heavy-duty design that protects the engine and machine components for extended life. Toro offers three models of forward plate compactors with an eccentric force range of 2,200 to 4,000 pounds. The FP-2200 is designed for powerful performance on smaller areas compacting trenches, granular soil, or asphalt. These forward plates operate with a maximum productivity of 6,500 square feet per hour. With optimal force and up to 10,000 square-feet-perhour capacity, the FP-3000 is engineered for high productivity and tough compaction
to tackle jobs on granular soil or asphalt with ease. For maximum eccentric power and productivity, the FP-4000 easily compacts mixed soil, granular soil or asphalt. FP-4000 forward plates operate with a maximum productivity of 10,000 square feet per hour.
PREVENT DEBRIS INCURSION
8 crownequip.com
Crown’s MVP 95 is a forward plate compactor that falls into the 3,000-pound plate compactor category and can be used for either residential or commercial jobs. It has a centrifugal force of 3,380 pounds and weighs 186 pounds. Standard features include an open self-cleaning design that prevents material from getting caught between the plate base and the engine mount. Six heavy-duty shock absorbers are strategically located for vibration reduction and comfortable operation. Its 20-by-21-inch cast iron plate provides easy access to
narrow areas and extends its durability. The engine rollcage protects the engine and provides easy access to the lifting bale. There is a removable water tank for easy water replacement. Options include a wheel kit for jobsite transportation and a paving mat for brick compaction. The MVP 95 comes with a three-year warranty against manufacturing defect.
STAND ANYWHERE
8 husqvarna.com
The Husqvarna LP 9505 is a powerful, easy-to-operate trench compactor that delivers superb productivity in demanding trench compaction jobs. It’s high operating weight enables efficient compaction without vibration, from the initial static passes all the way to the finish. The LP 9505 is equipped with a reliable, fuel-efficient Kubota diesel engine (Tier 4 Final compliant) and provides class-leading power, while the articulated steering allows the compac-
tor to turn corners without digging up the soil. The extra high and wide drum pads are optimally designed to make sure your customers have the traction to handle their daily tasks in wet or dry cohesive soils. It features smartly designed solutions to help the operator perform at his/ her best. One feature is the remote control. It is durable, lightweight and designed for smooth, safe manoeuvering with distinct driveability and feel. The remote control uses radio technology, which enables the operator to choose the best position to stand. This not only provides better ergonomics and safer working conditions, but also produces the best end results. The display also sends alerts to the operator when something needs to be checked The wide drums and low center of gravity deliver excellent stability to increase safety even more. Servicing is quick and easy with all service points clearly marked and easily accessed under the protective hoods.
PERFECT FOR PAVING 8 bomag.com
The new Bomag BPR 35/60 with StoneGuard offers landscape contractors a reversible plate compactor specially designed for paving stone
compaction. The revolutionary StoneGuard base plate prevents the excessive breakage rate of paving stones, which can be as high as 30 per cent when compacting with conventional plate compactors. By preventing edge and paving block damage, the BPR 35/60 increases working speeds by up to 30 per cent, while significantly reducing operating costs. The BPR 35/60 offers high-performance compaction of paving blocks with its 24.8-inch compaction width and operating weight of 547 pounds. In addition to compacting large slabs and final paving blocks quickly and efficiently, the StoneGuard design helps to prevent damage to surrounding structures. Providing an economical alternative to diesel engines, the BRP 35/60 is powered by the 4.8-horsepower Honda GX 160 gas engine that delivers an average fuel consumption of less than 0.3 gallons per hour. The machine’s low-oil automatic shutdown feature protects engine components from severe damage.
FOUND ON MOST SITES
8 wackerneuson.com
Wacker Neuson’s single-direction plates apply high-frequency, low-amplitude vibrations to the ground and are used mainly for compacting granular soils such as sand and gravel, as well as compacting asphalt mixes, both hot and cold. Since the introduction of the WP premium plate series over 20 years ago, Wacker Neuson has been
popular in the vibratory plate compactor market with the units being found on most construction, landscape and concrete jobsites, as well as homeowner projects. The latest WP plate series consists of four models, led in industry popularity by the WP1550, which features a 19.6-inchwide baseplate, weighs in at 196 pounds and delivers 3,375 pounds of centrifugal force.
The machine is available as standard vibratory plate or with a water system for asphalt applications. All of Wacker Neuson’s WP plates are powered by a 4.2-horsepower Honda engine. Designed for long life, the WP plates are made with a tough, wear-resistant ductile iron baseplate that has a tapered bottom and edges that provides for high speed, excellent manoeuverability and a smooth finish. Water tank models have a large capacity polyethylene tank that includes a large filter inside the tank to prevent clogging during operation and can be easily removed for cleaning and draining. The water system includes a distribution bar with angled holes to allow for complete water coverage for no asphalt pick up on the bottom of the plate. Granular soil applications for the WP1550 include backfill and general landscaping, as well as patio and driveway sub-base. Asphalt
Reversible Plate
Weight : 794 lbs
Working width : 24"
Centrifugal force : 12,364 lbs
Engine : Honda GX 390
CR6 Honda
COMPACTION
work on walkways, driveways, and in patching applications, especially along walls and curbs, are also ideal for the WP1550.
TELLS YOU WHEN IT’S DONE 8
multiquip.com
The Compas compaction analyzing system for Multiquip’s MQ Mikasa reversible plates is now available as a bolt-on option for diesel-powered MVH308DZ-, MVH408DZand MVH508DZ-series reversible plate compactors. Compas helps contractors improve efficiency and maximize productivity, while avoiding costly over-compaction. A series of LED lights indicates the progress made with each machine pass. As soil stiffness changes, lights turn on and guide the operator to either make additional passes or stop because optimum soil conditions have been attained. MQ Mikasa reversible plates feature ergonomically designed handles designed to minimize the vibration transferred to the operator. Removable extension plates allow the plate to be adapted for various trench applications. Compas units are equipped with Hatz Diesel engines designed to provide dependable service.
SMOOTH OPERATOR
8 webermt.com
The CR 6 Honda forward and reverse travel soil compactor stands out with its superb compacting capacity and superior efficiency. Delivering a centrifugal
force of 12,364 pounds. and weighing only 794 pounds, this 24-inch-wide Hondadriven compactor will exceed expectations, whether needed for classic applications in road building and civil engineering or for embedding paving stones. Its balanced operating characteristics and exceptionally smooth operation with low hand-arm vibration (under 2.5 meters per second squared) provide for extreme ease of use. This high level of comfort is also guaranteed by the guide bar which can be folded up and locked as well as adjusted to the operator‘s body height. An all-around enclosure and the sturdy frame provides full protection for the engine, thereby increasing operational reliability. The throttle cable and hydraulic hose are also protected in the guide bar to avoid any damage. The exhaust pipe is in the front of the machine to avoid the operator being exposed to unnecessary fumes. Meanwhile, the maintenance door in the front of the machine provides easy access to all essential maintenance points and with easy belt access and a self-adjusting clutch, this machine will save both time and money. The CR 6 with a GX 390 Honda engine is available with both pull and electric start. Optional accessories include a polyurethane pad for pavers and extension plates extending to 29 inches (or take standard extensions off for a narrower width of 18 inches).
POWERFUL COMBINATION
8 mbw.com
MBW’s 2000 Series single directional vibratory plates have been manufactured and built in the USA for 50 years. They offer a unique combination of frequency, centrifugal force, amplitude and mass that can double productivity, dramatically reduce maintenance and extend product life. Whether it be an open parking lot, a landscape project or a confined area next to a building, the GP2000 is a high-performance machine for all your customers’ sand and gravel compaction needs. They are built with stress-relieved steel plates that are crack-resistant and provide long wear. An aluminum exciter housing dissipates heat rapidly and custom lubricants preserve bearing and seal integrity. The AP2000 was the first vibratory plate compactor specifically designed for asphalt applications. The mechanical construction of the AP2000 is specific to this very demanding application. A Honda GX160 engine and lift cage are standard.
UNIQUE EXCITER SYSTEM
8 Ammann.com
The unique triple-shaft exciter system is the driving force behind the success of Ammann’s APH series of hydraulic vibratory plate compactors. Ammann developed the triple-shaft exciter system especially for its APH products, the largest plates in the Ammann portfolio. This technology with the third exciter shaft makes the machines easier to control while increasing the power and compaction forces. The system keeps plate movement consistent, which in turn enables smooth travel even through heavy, cohesive soils and helps overcome steep grades. APH machines can even climb while backfilling saturated areas. Steering and control are key features as well. Ammann Orbitrol steering controls the adjustment of the centrifugal weights, allowing a smooth and easy change of direction while ensuring great accuracy on the jobsite. Machine speed and direction can be adjusted by a simple turn of the steering control lever. The machine also can hover and provide on-the-spot compaction for the more challenging areas. This system also helps improve productivity in corners and other tight spots. The APH compactors also minimise the unwanted vibra-
tion that reaches the operator by isolating the standard hand guide. Levels lower than 2.5 square meters (excluding APH 100-20) enable operators to work longer shifts with the best comfort. The vibration levels are very low.
IMPROVED ECCENTRICS
8 rentquip.com
The Patron RP504 reversible plate compactor features a 27.5-inch plate and is excellent for compacting medium to deep layers of granular soils. The high speed, balanced design and hydraulic control system contributes to easy, precise handling on the roughest of surfaces or for spot compaction. Applications include boulders, cobble, gravel, sand and silt. The machine weighs 1,099 pounds. Designed for low fuel consumption and emissions, the heavy-duty protection frame, impact-resistant steel covers and high-quality bottom plate make the RP504 rental-tough. Improved eccentrics increase the travel speed and performance in muddy conditions. The plate compac-
tor includes an Optima battery, a v-belt inspection hatch for easy access, one-finger forward and reverse control and an EPA three-position throttle that extends clutch life.
MAXIMUM FLEXIBILITY
8 dynapac.com
From high-precision manoeuvering to the roughest conditions, four-stroke low-emission rammers from Dynapac lets customers handle all conditions with ease. The hour and tacho-meter lets the user stay connected for service planning and optimized use thus boosting productivity. Transport wheels and foot extensions ensure superior flexibility. The DR7X weighs 68 kilograms and covers up to 336 square meters per hour. Powered by a Honda GXR 120 engine, it includes a low-vibration handle, dualstage fuel system and an air pre-filter with a self-cleaning housing. One knob stops both engine and oil supply. It has infinitely variable frequency controls and a recoil starter. Loading aid rollers on the handle and a one-point lifting attachment make handling easy.
Very online
Transitioning to a virtual events services provider.
by Tara Jacobs
No, video conferencing is not your company’s strong point. You are experts at providing the things that populate actual, physical space. But you do know events and you know a thing or two about what people want for an engaging experience. Here at Annex, we’ve had to make a sudden and radical shift to putting our live events online. Here’s what we’ve learned. Maybe there’s an opportunity here for you to broaden your store’s offering and take something positive out of this lost season.
As event industry professionals, we already know the show must go on. It’s innate to what we do. There’s always that extra table (or 20), the need for last minute carpet (or not) and two, no, make that five, more chairs at booth X. And this is just to start. The reality is, you predict the unexpected, and resource each event anticipating these changes. At the end of the day, the event runs seamlessly (to those attending, of course), thanks to your preparedness and agile team.
While we pride ourselves in expecting the unexpected, pandemics are a bit out of our wheelhouse.
Our initial response was to stock up on hand sanitizer, so we could be prepared to “do our part” at registration. Hand sanitizer was already sold out. Right. Only a few days later, we were contacting venues and vendors, begging for financial mercy and the flexibility to postpone our events until fall. I had to make these difficult calls to you, the rental operator, knowing the impact it would have on your business. And for the first time in March, I had time. Time to reflect on what just happened, and think about how we could “MacGyver” our way out of this one.
Not unlike you, we’re sitting tight in anticipation of what the fall will bring. Are we worried about the financial repercussions of a lost live event season? You bet. But therein lies the opportunity.
We decided it’s time to think outside the booth and re-imagine how we can connect buyers and sellers from their home offices. After attending numerous virtual events (on virtual events), and being inundated with requests to demonstration
digital platforms boasting exhibit halls and auditoriums (do we really want to do business with avatars?), we decided to pause and take a look at the resources and tools we’re already using in-house.
To start, we’re launching virtual sponsored conferences this spring, that will bring people together for a half or full day, to engage with live content, or watch sessions on-demand as time permits. These sessions may range from keynotes, to panel discussions, or interviews, but there is so much more we can do.
Now, more than ever, people are getting comfortable using video conferencing tools like Zoom or Facebook Live. A session could be broadcast live from your store. If vendors can’t show off the latest products at a tradeshow, we’ll help them bring it to you “live” online. If we think beyond the physical walls of a booth, there’s a unique opportunity to give access to spaces, processes, products and services that wouldn’t fit in a 10-by-10.
Speaking of access, we can expand our reach beyond the geographical restrictions of a regional tradeshow. For many small to medium size rental owner/operators, it’s difficult to find the time to leave the shop, even for a day. We’re hoping this new experience will offer you an alternate way to identify new prospects, see the latest in products and technology, find out what your competitors are doing and learn about the latest developments in your sector, all from the comfort of your desk, or counter or wherever you may be working these days.
The event industry as a whole may have been hit hard by this pandemic. The way we do business in the future will certainly change. Rental tables and chairs will never have been so clean. But one thing hasn’t changed – and that is the need for people to connect, share ideas, and innovate to develop new business opportunities. We all need to look for new markets and opportunities to expand revenue and stay relevant. Until then, rest up. When events make a comeback, and they will, I hope I’ll have the stamina (pretty sure I’ve gained my COVID-19), to sustain the demand for live events. CRS
The soul of General drain cleaners is our time tested tough Flexicore® cable. We wrap heavy gauge wire around 49-strand aircraft-type wire rope to get the right balance of strength and flexibility, so you get fewer returns with kinked or broken cables.
Flexicore construction is low maintenance, kink-resistant, and durable. It comes back intact—and that strength goes straight to your bottom line.
To learn more, call the Drain Brains at 800-245-6200, or visit www.drainbrain.com/rental
