Across the world, RUD lifting points and chains are known for their pink colour (Often referred to as pinkies in Australia). Ever wonder why the colour pink? Read the story of how the RUD pink colour came to be and our 30-year journey since 1994.
The article below summarises the interview conducted with Hermann Kolb, Head of the RUD Group’s Lifting and Lashing Equipment Division in Germany. The original interviews can be read here and here.
In the world of lifting and lashing equipment, functionality and safety reign supreme, and branding takes second place. Yet, for the past three decades, RUD has broken the mould, blazing a new path with its signature pink colour for its lifting, lashing and chain products.
What started as a bold design choice in 1994 has become an industry-defining trademark. From technological advancements to innovative safety measures, RUD's pink lifting and lashing points and chains have reshaped the perception of industrial equipment while reinforcing the brand's commitment to excellence.
The Beginning of an Unmistakable Trademark
The story of RUD's pink lifting equipment began in 1994 with the development of the world’s first Grade 100 chain system. This ground-breaking advancement represented a significant leap in strength and durability, but RUD wanted to ensure it would also stand out visually in a traditionally conservative industry. Opting for colour as the differentiator, the company chose pink - a decision that was as daring as it was unconventional.
According to Hermann Kolb, the Head of RUD Group’s Lifting and Lashing Equipment Division, the colour pink was associated with progressiveness and modernity, making it an ideal choice to signal innovation. The new design was paired with the product designation VIP 100, where "VIP" stood for Verwechslungsfrei in Pink (non-mix-up in pink). The colour initially sparked internal debate, but it was embraced by employees and stakeholders who saw its potential to redefine RUD’s market presence.
Overcoming Industry Stereotypes
Launching pink-coloured lifting chains in a male-dominated, function-over-form industry came with its challenges. However, the team at RUD was determined and refused to compromise on the new colour.
Even after the initial scepticism, the decision to continue with the pink colour was challenging. “A RUD chain is a RUD chain,” Kolb states, reinforcing the company’s commitment to its brand identity. Over time, the pink colour gained acceptance, and customers began to associate RUD with pink lifting and lashing equipment - a connection that has strengthened the brand over the years.
Function Meets Form - Pink as a Safety Indicator
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the pink coating on RUD’s products serves a critical functional purpose. When exposed to high temperatures exceeding 200°C, the colour darkens progressively, offering a visual indicator of heat exposure. This feature allows users to assess whether a component has been compromised and should be replaced. A brown-black colour, for instance, signals that the material has surpassed 300°C, potentially reducing its strength and requiring immediate replacement.
This innovative approach has set RUD apart in the industry. It provides an additional layer of safety while enhancing the practical value of its products. The heat-responsive colour chart developed by RUD is now a standard tool for professionals who rely on these components.
The Journey from Grade 100 to Grade 120
RUD’s commitment to innovation is reflected not only in the functionality of its products but also in the evolution of its iconic colour. The original, light pink, represented Grade 100 and remained the standard from 1994 until 2007. As RUD introduced Grade 120, we needed to differentiate the higher grade, which is why all ICE 120 products come with a darker shade called ICE pink. This subtle yet effective variation shows the quality differentiator for clarity.
Powder Coating - Durability Under Pressure
RUD’s pink coating is applied using advanced powder-coating technology, ensuring resilience against the rigours of industrial use. To further reinforce product traceability and safety, RUD incorporates permanent embossing such as manufacturer details, quality class, and batch numbers.
Customisation for Diverse Needs
While pink is RUD’s standard colour, we also cater for customer-specific requirements. Weldable lifting points are often integrated into machinery and vehicles, and in such cases, we offer customised coatings to match product functionality with ambience.
Similarly, our anchor points for personal fall arrest, such as the PSA VRS-STARPOINT or the PSA INOX-STAR, come in yellow. Although this colour is not dictated by any formal standard, it has become an industry norm, providing a clear visual distinction for components designed to secure people instead of lifting or lashing.
Market Reception and Customer Engagement
RUD launched the pink colour in 1994 at the Hanover Fair. Since then, trade fairs and conferences have proven to be important platforms to showcase the pink lifting and lashing equipment. The striking colour often sparks curiosity among visitors and initiates conversations, which has transformed the colour into a recognised brand identity.
Kolb, reflecting on the 30-year journey, affirms that, in hindsight, the decision was perfect and would be made again without hesitation. “We exceeded our expectations. The association ‘RUD = pink’ has achieved an extremely high level of acceptance, and I believe this will remain the case for a long time to come.”
The Future of Pink Innovation
As RUD celebrates 30 years of pink lifting points and chains, we continue to expand boundaries in safety, quality, and design. The enduring success of the pink colour branding demonstrates strategic foresight in shaping market perception.
In an industry driven by performance and reliability, RUD’s pink lifting equipment stands as a testament to the value of innovation - not just in technology but also in how a company chooses to define itself. For professionals worldwide, and especially in Australia, where "Pinkies" are a standard, RUD’s vibrant legacy is poised to continue for decades to come.
Article copyright to RUD Group. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.
References:
- RUD Group Press Archives - https://rud.pressroom-rbt.com/en/30-years-of-lifting-and-lashing-equipment-in-pink-the-success-story-of-ruds-industry-design/
- RUD Group Press Archives - https://rud.pressroom-rbt.com/en/symbol-of-progressiveness/
Part 2 of the 2-part article. Click here to read Part 1.
A Comprehensive Range of Lashing and Anchoring Solutions
RUD offers a comprehensive range of solutions, addressing both lashing and anchoring needs:
High Capacity Lashing Points: These lashing points are engineered for multi-directional load capacity with a 2:1 safety factor against breakage. They are clearly labelled with their tensile strength for easy identification during setup.
L-ABA: Forged with one-piece construction for exceptional strength. Click to view the product.
LPW: Patented 90° design for efficient load support, featuring a noise-dampening holding spring. Click to view the product.
Secure Anchor Points: These products offer a 4:1 safety factor against breakage. They feature clear WLL labels and undergo electromagnetic crack testing for maximum reliability.
W-ABA: One of the best-selling products, the W-ABA comes with an annealed base for superior wear resistance. Click to view the product.
VRBS: Features 180° pivoting for versatility with split force introduction for optimal load distribution. Click to view the product.
VLBS: Also features 180° pivoting for versatility and a high safety factor due to an undetachable suspension ring and weld-on block. Click to view the product.
Benefits of RUD's Lashing System:
Enhanced Load Control
High-capacity lashings effectively manage the heavyweight and shifting forces during transportation, ensuring stability even on challenging terrain.
Reduced Tipping Risk
Strategically placed anchor points prevent tipping during turns and manoeuvres, offering peace of mind for drivers navigating tight corners and uneven roads.
Durability and Reliability
Robust, wear-resistant materials ensure long-lasting performance for multiple journeys, reducing maintenance costs and downtime.
The Bottom Line: Choosing the Right Partner
The successful transport of Pasquale Maraffa's oversized boiler highlights the crucial role of proper lashing and anchoring technology in handling heavy, high-centre-of-gravity loads. By partnering with RUD, transport and freight companies can ensure safe and efficient delivery, even for the most demanding projects.
Investing in robust lashing solutions is not an expense; it is crucial to ensure the safety and success of every transport operation.
RUD will exhibit at the National Bus & Coach Show at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from 17-18 September 2024. Visit our booth DB33 in Hall 3 to discuss our lashing solutions and hoists for the heavy vehicle industry.
If you want more details of our lashing solutions for the transport industry, call us on 07 3809 1300 or email us here.
Article copyright to RUD Group. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.
This is a 2 part article.
Transporting large bulky equipment with a high centre of gravity is a challenge. In the world of heavy transportation, hauling oversized equipment presents unique challenges. From navigating tight corners to tackling unpredictable terrain, every journey demands meticulous planning and a deep understanding of load-securing techniques.
This is true when dealing with extremely heavy loads with a high centre of gravity, like massive boilers transported to industrial sites. Continue to read how an Italian freight company used RUD expertise to transport a huge boiler.
Pasquale Maraffa, owner of an Italian freight company, recently faced such a challenge. His team was contracted to transport a colossal boiler, weighing over 200 tonnes and towering 16 meters high, to a refinery. The large size and weight of the load required careful planning because even a slight incline in the road could put immense stress on the lashing components. Adding to the complexity, narrow turns posed a significant risk of the load tipping over.
For Pasquale, the success of this project rested on choosing the right partner-one with a clear understanding of load securing and a proven track record of handling such demanding tasks. That partner was RUD, known worldwide for advanced lashing technology solutions.
The Importance of Lashing Expertise
While many transport companies acknowledge the importance of weather considerations and route planning, the crucial aspect of lashing point capabilities often gets overlooked. This is where RUD's expertise shines. We understand that every lashing point on a trailer must be carefully evaluated to ensure its capacity matches the load's weight and the stresses it will encounter during transport.
For Maraffa, this project highlighted the importance of choosing a partner like RUD, which offers comprehensive lashing technology solutions tailored to specific needs. Instead of relying on generic solutions, RUD provides a customised approach, including:
Clear Working Load Limits (WLL)
All RUD products are clearly labelled with their safe working capacity, ensuring proper use and preventing accidents.
Technical Expertise
RUD offers custom lashing solutions based on the specific load characteristics and transportation requirements, creating a bespoke system for each transport.
Customisation
RUD can even customise lashing products to match the brand colours of trailer manufacturers, adding a touch of visual professionalism to the trailer.
Optimised Lashing Design
RUD products are designed with rounded and durable shapes to minimise wear and tear, guaranteeing long-lasting performance.
To be continued ... Click here for Part 2
Investing in robust lashing solutions is not an expense; it is crucial to ensure the safety and success of every transport operation.
RUD will exhibit at the National Bus & Coach Show at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from 17-18 September 2024. Visit our booth DB33 in Hall 3 to discuss our lashing solutions and hoists for the heavy vehicle industry.
If you want more details of our lashing solutions for the transport industry, call us on 07 3809 1300 or email us here.
Article copyright to RUD Group. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.
Secure and reliable lashing points are critical when transporting heavy machinery and cargo. These critical components guarantee the safety of goods in transit and minimise potential damage and costs. In addition, appropriately secured loads significantly reduce the risk of accidents caused by shifting cargo, protecting drivers, passengers, and other road users*.
* If you want more details on the importance of load securing, including the NHVR Load Restraint Guide, read our 2-part article published earlier:
Part 1 and Part 2
The Importance of Secure Lashing During Transport
Imagine a scenario where a load shifts unexpectedly during transport in your heavy vehicle. Not only could it damage the cargo itself, but it also poses a significant risk of accidents for drivers, passengers, and other road users. This is why proper load restraint using certified lashing equipment, as mandated by the Australian Load Restraint Guide, is absolutely crucial.
RUD: A Global Leader in Lashing Solutions
RUD is a world leader in the lifting and lashing industry and offers a comprehensive selection of lashing points with capacities ranging from 3,000 to 32,000 daN. These lashing solutions cater to diverse sectors, including the lashing of heavy and large loads in cargo transportation, vehicle transport, railway operations, and construction equipment.
Uncompromising Quality and Compliance
RUD takes quality and compliance seriously. All RUD lashing points undergo rigorous 100% crack testing and adhere to the strictest quality control procedures. This ensures that you receive reliable and compliant products that meet the demands of heavy vehicle transport.
Flexibility and Adaptability for Optimised Loading and Unloading
Regarding efficiency, RUD's lashing points are designed for unmatched flexibility during loading and unloading operations. The compact designs with large eye diameters allow greater versatility when using different lashing equipment. The diverse welding surfaces enable easy and seamless integration into the truck or trailer chassis during the build process.
For instance, the RUD OPTILASH-CLICK system stands out for its versatility. It can be moved along the chassis, reducing the required number of lashing points. This translates to cost savings and lighter weight for your heavy vehicle.
Benefits of Choosing RUD Lashing Points
There are numerous advantages to incorporating RUD lashing points into your transport operations:
- Multi-directional lashing capability: Ensures comprehensive load security from all angles.
- Two-fold safety factor: Provides exceptional reliability against breakage for peace of mind.
- Marked tensile strength: Lashing capacity (LC) is marked in daN for accurate load identification.
- Smooth, rounded shapes: Minimises wear and tear on lashing equipment.
- Optimal connection sizes: Delivers secure and efficient attachment for your cargo.
The RUD Lashing Point Range
To cater to various load-securing needs in transport, RUD offers a comprehensive range of lashing points, including weld-on and bolt-on options.
RUD Weld-On Lashing Points:
RUD Bolt-On Lashing Points:
Why Partner with RUD for Your Lashing Needs?
There are several compelling reasons to choose RUD for your lashing point requirements:
- Unmatched Expertise: RUD brings decades of global experience and leadership in lifting and lashing technology to the table.
- One-Stop Solution: We offer a comprehensive range of load-securing solutions backed by a reliable service network.
- Optimised Shapes: RUD's lashing points are designed with rounded shapes and no sharp edges to minimise wear and tear on your lashing equipment.
- Clear Markings: Lashing load specifications are marked for easy reference during loading and transport.
- Custom Branding: RUD lashing points can be custom-painted to match the colour of your vehicle and chassis.
By partnering with RUD for your lashing point needs, you are guaranteed exceptional quality, superior safety, and efficient operation of all your load securing and lashing requirements. RUD lashing points are available through a network of Australia-wide distributors. If you want to know your nearest RUD distributor, email us or call us on 07 3809 1300.
Article copyright to RUD Ketten and RUD Australia. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise. Some pictures are for illustration only.
