Menu
close
Menu
close

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:

  1. 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/
  2. RUD Group Press Archives - https://rud.pressroom-rbt.com/en/symbol-of-progressiveness/

Falls from heights are a significant hazard in Australian workplaces, contributing to annual injuries and fatalities. According to Safe Work Australia, falls from a height were the second-highest contributor to worker fatalities, with a 71% increase from 17 to 29 deaths between 2022 and 2023. 1

Non-fatal falls also impose substantial financial burdens, with each incident costing employers downtime, medical expenses, and recovery costs. This underscores the critical need for robust height safety measures, with personal fall arrest systems playing a pivotal role in mitigating these risks. 

 The Australian Height Safety Landscape 

Australia maintains a comprehensive legislative framework for workplace safety, particularly for working at heights. 

A range of standards employed within this framework include: 

AS/NZS 1891 (series) 

This standard series offers detailed guidance on the various aspects of personal fall arrest systems, including selection, use, and maintenance of industrial fall-arrest systems and devices.  

AS/NZS 5532:2013 

This standard specifies manufacturing requirements for single-point anchor devices used in harness-based work at height. It outlines the design, testing, and performance criteria that anchor devices must meet to ensure reliability during fall arrest scenarios. 

The Role of Personal Fall Arrest Systems  

Personal fall arrest systems are critical safety measures for workers operating at heights. Their effectiveness depends on proper selection, installation, and use, highlighting the necessity for comprehensive training. Personal fall arrest systems should serve as a final line of defence when other preventative measures, such as guardrails or safety nets, are not feasible. 

Importance of Training 

Workers utilising personal fall arrest systems must receive thorough training on the following: 

Equipment Selection: Choosing appropriate personal fall arrest systems based on specific tasks and environmental conditions.

Proper Donning and Doffing: Ensuring correct fitting and adjustment for optimal function and safety.

Routine Inspections: Conducting regular checks to identify any damage or defects that could compromise safety.

Emergency Procedures: Being prepared to respond effectively in the event of a fall, including rescue operations and equipment handling.

RUD: Leading with Anchor Points 

RUD offers a range of personal fall arrest system anchor points compliant with Australian standards: 

PSA VRS-STARPOINT: A 360-degree rotatable anchor point designed for permanent installations on buildings and wind turbines.

PSA INOX-STAR: Similar to the VRS-STARPOINT but constructed from stainless steel, making it suitable for harsh environments.

Weld-on Anchor Points: RUD is preparing to release a range of weld-on anchor points with boltable plates, expanding secure anchoring options for various substrates.

All RUD fall arrest anchor points are tested and certified to meet AS/NZS 1891.4:2009 and AS/NZS 5532:2013, ensuring compliance with Australian safety regulations. A forthcoming weld-on duplex stainless steel anchor point will be suitable for corrosive environments.

Contact RUD for more information, applications and technical advice. Call 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. 

References:

  1. Safework Australia - https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/media-centre/news/key-work-health-and-safety-statistics-2024

It has been a big month for RUD in Oct 2024.

We participated in two major conferences in Adelaide.

🔹IQA 2024 from the Institute of Quarrying Australia.

🔹CICA 2024 from the Crane Industry Council of Australia.

IQA is Australia's premier conference for the quarrying industry. The 2024 theme of Innovate and Create was coined to drive innovation as a key strategy to create growth opportunities.

It was terrific to showcase our tyre chain solutions and connect with industry leaders.

🔹Tyre Protection & Traction Chains: Keep your operations moving safely.
🔹Lifting & Lashing: Reliable solutions for handling heavy loads.
🔹Engineered & Drive Technology: Innovative solutions for optimising your equipment.

We also participated in CICA 2024, the biggest conference for the crane industry in the southern hemisphere. The theme of Building a Sustainable Tomorrow resonated with the world-class lifting and lashing solutions we exhibited at the conference.

🔹 Lifting & Lashing Solutions: Reliable solutions for handling heavy loads.
🔹 Engineered Solutions: Innovations to optimise crane equipment.
🔹 ICE 120 Chain Range: The popular Grade 120 chain range.

At CICA, we also provided more details about our new products to be launched in 2025 - CCS-FASTLOX and PIP-RAPIDO, as well as our cool apps, Confitron and BUDDYtron.

If you want more details about our chain solutions, call us at 07 3809 1300 or email us here.

Welcome aboard Australia’s leading material lifting and handling technology company.

Click the button to read about us, our products, news, blog posts and everything happening at RUD in Australia and around the world.

Click here to read

The National Bus and Coach Show 2024 will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from September 17 to 18, 2024. 

This show will bring together the latest technology in the bus and coach space, including zero-emissions, bio-fuel and autonomous vehicles.

RUD is known for Endurequip Portalift, the only Australian-made, chain-driven mobile heavy vehicle hoist manufactured in Brisbane. It symbolises quality and technology for the most arduous Australian applications. In 2024, RUD is offering a high-quality German wireless mobile heavy vehicle hoist, Finkbeiner, which is reputed around the world for quality and innovation.

Some of the solutions we provide in the heavy vehicle workshop industry are:

Streamline your efficiency and minimise downtime with our mobile heavy vehicle hoist range, which provides a solution for every workshop application across Australia. Whether you operate a large fleet or a specialised repair shop, our heavy vehicle hoists deliver the lifting capacity and portability so your heavy vehicle servicing can operate smoothly.

We also offer a range of premium accessories designed to seamlessly integrate with your hoists, such as vehicle stands, vehicle ramps and small wheel adaptors.

Visit our booth DB33 in Hall 3 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from 17-18 Sep 2024 to discuss our automotive workshop solutions.

For more information on RUD Heavy Vehicle Hoist Solutions, click here to fill out our form or visit our contact page to send us an enquiry.

The best of the defence industry will be on show at Australia’s largest and premier land defence expo, Land Forces 2024, in Melbourne from 11-13 September.

Land Forces 2022 attracted 20,000 visitors over 3 days, with 810 exhibitors from 25 countries. 

The RUD Group is a globally certified supplier for defence systems and equipment for land, air and sea. We provide standard and customised applications for the defence force that meet and exceed the industry's exacting standards.

Some of the solutions we provide to the ADF and defence contractors are:

RUD is also involved in the ongoing maintenance of defence vehicle equipment. Whether it’s peacekeeping missions, field studies, tactical assessments or high-risk military projects, our defence clients can rely on our solutions to see their work through to completion.

Visit our booth E175 in the Queensland Govt Pavilion at the Melbourne Convention Centre from 11-13 Sep 2024 to discuss our Lifting, Lashing, Drive and Engineering Solutions.

For more information on RUD Solutions for the Defence Industry, click here to fill out our form or visit our contact page to send us an enquiry.

Welcome aboard Australia’s leading material lifting and handling technology company.

Click the button to read about us, our products, news, blog posts and everything happening at RUD in Australia and around the world.

Click here to read

Welcome aboard Australia’s leading material lifting and handling technology company.

Click the button to read about us, our products, news, blog posts and everything happening at RUD in Australia and around the world.

Click here to read

Established in 2008 by now co-Directors Ben Rose and Mitch Atkinson, Hulk Lifting seeks to supply high-quality engineered lifting solutions to whoever engages its services. Collaborating with German manufacturer and global supplier RUD Chains, Ben goes in-depth about the quality of RUD’s products and their impact on the lifting and rigging equipment industry.

In 2006, Ben Rose worked alongside his two colleagues Mitch Atkinson and Dan Bell in the gear locker for P&O Ports. The trio, doing their time in the stevedoring industry maintaining and inspecting lifting equipment, worked hard to keep all the products that came across their path up to a high standard while constantly seeking new ways to further develop the equipment on the Queensland port for cargo handling.

“Of course, it was at P&O Ports that we brainstormed and developed a self-equalising flat chain,” said Ben. “That was the inception of Hulk Lifting.”

Officially beginning in 2008 and now run by Ben and Mitch in the Brisbane suburb of Newmarket, the duo has expanded Hulk Lifting to distribute its lifting solutions across Australia. Designed predominantly for cargo handling in the stevedoring industry, Hulk Lifting products are capable of standing up in any environment: or, as Ben said, “to whoever wants to engage in our services and finds value in what we do”.

“We pride ourselves on creating innovative, engineered lifting solutions that are dependable, durable, and quality,” he said. 

To supply the market with high-quality, bespoke lifting solutions, Ben is well aware that the foundation products need to come from high-quality manufacturing. As luck, fortune, serendipity, or - most likely - the importance of maintaining good relationships in the industry would have it, the team at Hulk Lifting already held a relationship with one such manufacturer: RUD Chains.

Globally renowned for its technical expertise in manufacturing and recently receiving a high appraisal from SureLift Crane Hire owner Mark ‘Chopper’ Read in the October issue of Cranes and Lifting as the “only products” he’ll use for lifting and lashing solutions, the German-based manufacturer’s product range features more than 700 lifting slings and lashing points. For Ben, the introduction to RUD’s products came in 2004 through Product Manager Stuart Nolan.

Since then, akin to SureLift’s experience, Hulk Lifting has consistently turned to RUD for any lifting and lashing solutions it needs, according to Ben. 

“Knowing that we’re using RUD’s products provides us with a sense of comfort and reassurance,” he said.

“RUD really is ‘best-in-show’ for us: through the design, manufacturing and final build stages, everything is simply top-notch.”

Supplying its products across the country and, in some instances, globally, Ben is well aware of the importance of providing equipment that is structurally and physically sound, not least because of the safety element involved in the lifting, stevedoring and bulk-handling industries.

At the forefront of its products is the “globally renowned” flat chain sling that inspired the inception of Hulk Lifting; at the core of its flagship product is RUD’s Grade 120 chain.

RUD’s ICE Grade 120 chain carries 30 per cent less weight than the next nominal grade chain and a 60 per cent higher breaking force than a grade 80 chain, which offers a significant safety
advantage to anyone using its products. Designed and manufactured back at the company’s home base in Germany, the chain slings are then assembled and proof load-tested at its Australian facility in Brisbane, where the products go through a rigorous testing process to ensure the chains meet Australian Quality, Environmental and OH&S standards. On top of this, the global manufacturer also holds LEEA and NATA accreditation, ensuring it is part of the movement in the lifting and rigging industry that focuses on supplying the market with internationally accredited, quality products. For Ben, this gives the team at Hulk Lifting better peace of mind. 

“We sleep easier at night with RUD’s engineering because, in our experience, it really is the safest,” he said. “We’ve worked with other products, and we’ve seen RUD’s chains consistently exceed others in their performance.”

Supplying the Australian lifting and rigging market with high-quality, durable, sustainable products comes at a price compared to its single, two-time, and maybe three-time use counterparts. The price, however, is one well worth paying, according to Ben, with the environmental, financial and operational benefits all paying large dividends to those who decide to invest.

“People who’ve worked with high-quality lifting and rigging equipment know the value of manufacturing such as RUDs,” he said. “Safety needs to be paramount in the lifting and rigging industry, which RUD’s chains provide to anyone using them.”

It’s not, however, just the ICE Grade 120 chains that put Ben and Mitch’s minds at ease. As a manufacturer, RUD also designs and creates a host of lifting beams, spreader beams and lifting and lashing points, with over 700 tested boltable and weldable lifting point variants featuring load ranges all the way up to 250 tonnes. Working with RUD to provide customised lifting solutions,
Ben points to the first production lug in the world, which was the 31.5-tonne capacity ABA, which the manufacturers shipped to Australia for Hulk Lifting to weld onto a lifting beam. As Ben was
quick to highlight, it’s that high level of commitment to anyone using RUD’s products and services that ensures the German manufacturer remains a high-quality partner, from product through to post-sale service.

“Whenever we get something in from RUD, there’s always an engineer coming afterwards to inspect the product and ensure that it’s performing exactly as it should,” he said. “RUD gives a top-end
service supplied by top-end people providing a top-end product to the Australian market.”

Have you checked our YouTube videos? Click here to visit the RUD YouTube channel.

Article copyright to Cranes & Lifting; 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.

For more details on how RUD can help with your lifting requirements, please call us on 07 3809 1300 or fill out an enquiry form here.

Sources:

Welcome aboard Australia’s leading material lifting and handling technology company.

Click the button to read about us, our products, news, blog posts and everything happening at RUD in Australia and around the world.

Click here to read

Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition is Australia’s premier commercial maritime and naval defence exposition which will be held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney from Tue 7 - Thu 9 Nov 2023.

This year's expo is on track to be the largest iteration in 23 years, with key players from the maritime and naval defence communities.

RUD Australia is also a certified supplier to the Australian Defence Force. Some of the solutions we provide to the ADF are:

What does RUD offer?

We offer bespoke solutions for the challenging conditions in the maritime industry. Forged from Duplex Stainless Steel 1.4462, our products are suitable for corrosive applications, including the subsea ROV-Hook, which has been developed specially for rigging with underwater robots.

ROV Subsea Rigging Hook

RORO Weld-On Lashing Point

INOX-ABA Weld-On Lashing Point

INOX-STAR Bolt-On Lifting Point

TECDOS Drive Technology

TECDOS Drives can be used in linear, rotating, horizontal or vertical applications to:

Click here to visit the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition website.

Visit our booth in the Defence Jobs Qld Area from 7-9 Nov 2023 at the International Convention Centre to discuss our Maritime Lifting, Lashing and Drive Technology Solutions.

For more information on RUD Solutions for the Maritime Industry, click here to send us an enquiry.

This is taken from the article published in Cranes & Lifting Oct 2023 issue. Click here to read the original article.

Director of SureLift Crane Hire Mark ‘Chopper’ Read discusses his business and why the company consistently chooses RUD.

“They’re the best chains in the industry,” says Chopper. “All of RUD’s lifting and lashing equipment consistently performs on safety and durability measures; it’s because of the way we’ve seen RUD’s products perform that we don’t buy anything but RUD.”

Chopper himself holds an extensive career in the mining industry; working in and around shutdowns in the mining industry before starting Surelift; he’s seen it all; and that’s why when he labels RUD’s chains and slings as the “best”, he’s worked with, there’s an added element of legitimacy to his words.

SureLift Crane Hire was conceived in the mining town of Moranbah and began its operations with just one 20-tonne Franna crane. Since then, the Queensland-based company has expanded its fleet to include seven Franna P&C cranes, seven all-terrain cranes, a 280-tonne crawler crane and a variety of truck and trailer combinations.

“Initially, when I started the business, I reflected on my time in the shutdown industry and I saw the potential for more crane hire in the market,” he says. “I decided to try it out, and we’ve eventually grown into the business we are today.”

At the core of its operations, SureLift provides crane hire and transport services to businesses and individuals in Moranbah and its surrounding regions. Frequently employed by contractors working in the mining, construction, maintenance and industrial sectors, Surelift’s team of 48 full-time employees is well-versed in the crane and logistics industry, thanks to the company’s 17 years of experience. 

“The biggest problem that we experienced when starting SureLift was just attracting the work,” says Chopper. “But we kept our heads down and worked hard, and eventually, things fell our way; today, we own over 16 cranes and operate across a range of projects.”

Part of working across a range of projects in the crane industry requires versatile, durable, safe lifting and rigging equipment. 

“Although we’re general hire, the chains consistently stand up for us no matter what environment they’re placed in,” he says. “I initially came across RUD’s chains early on in my career and they have not disappointed me.”

The other blatant testimony to the working capacities of RUD's products is the industries in which they appear. According to Chopper, working with a range of clients in the defence, infrastructure, energy and engineering industries, RUD’s chains offer “capacity, versatility, and unique features” that other chains “just don’t have”. 

RUD ICE Grade 120 range of lifting chains weigh 30%  less than the next nominal grade chain but possess 60% higher breaking force than the Grade 80 chains. Also, when used with a balancer, a RUD ICE 16mm chain can lift up to 48 tonnes, the highest in its class.

“The balancer is a huge point of difference when compared to other options on the market,” says Chopper. “It allows us to lift at a higher capacity with the same level of safety.”

Aside from using its range of lifting chains and slings, Chopper is also highly complimentary of the lifting and lashing points that RUD supplies to SureLift. The German manufacturer offers more than 700 tested boltable and weldable lifting point variants with load ranges all the way up to 250 tonnes. Stringently tested and certified according to LEEA and NATA standards, Chopper says the versatility offered by the products is “incomparable”.

“Working in the shutdown industry, it’s imperative to get things right with dependable, durable products,” he says. “The weld on lift-points that we use are exactly that; having versatile gear that holds many applications at many ranges is essential.”

All these products collectively feature for Chopper are safety and excellent post-sale service and support. Talking about his relationship with RUD Chains and its after-sale service, Chopper says no stone is left unturned for RUD when it comes to ensuring the company supplies the right product according to Surelift’s needs. 

“Their post-sale service is excellent; anything you need to talk to them about – whether it be the maintenance of the product, a new range that’s just come out, or different lifting solutions – they’re there,” he says. “Additionally, if we need any advice for setting up new slings or purchasing any new items, RUD are always on the other end of the phone, ready and willing to give us a helping hand – or, in this case, a sling.”

For the team at Surelift, since RUD’s products are manufactured, tested and maintained in accordance with Australian Quality, Environmental, and OH&S standards, including LEEA and NATA accreditations, this is more important than RUD’s high-quality post-sale service. Chopper believes RUD’s products tick all these boxes.

“At the start of the day, everyone’s got a right to go to work; at the end of the day, everyone’s got the right to go home safely,” says Chopper. “We feel that using RUD’s chains embodies that message of safety.”

RUD will be exhibiting at the Crane Industry Lifting Conference - CICA 2023 from 26-28 Oct 2023. Visit us in Booth #27/28 at the Perth Convention Centre to discuss our Lifting and Lashing Solutions for the crane industry.

Article copyright to Cranes & Lifting; this information is accurate at the time of publication and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.

Read More Articles on the Cranes & Lifting portal:

The CICA (Crane Industry Council of Australia) Conference is one of the biggest crane industry events in the southern hemisphere. CICA 2023 is being held at the Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre from Thursday 26 to Saturday 28 Oct 2023. RUD will be showcasing solutions for lifting, lashing and engineering requirements of the crane industry. 

RUD Australia is a certified supplier to the crane and infrastructure industry, providing solutions such as:

Check our blogs on the Lifting Kits for Cranes, Lifting & Lashing Solutions for the Wind Energy Industry and lifting the largest and heaviest lattice cage for a bridge pier in Berlin.

Read why Mark Read from SureLift Crane Hire Services based at Moranbah says RUD chains are the best chains in the industry and consistently perform on safety and durability measures. And why you need to consider RUD Chains for your next lifting purchase.

Read the original article on Cranes & Lifting October 2023 issue here.

Visit us on Stands #27 and #28 from 26-28 Oct 2023 at the Perth Convention Centre to discuss our Lifting and Lashing Solutions for the crane industry.

For more information on RUD Solutions for the Crane Industry, click here to send us an enquiry.

Part 2 of the 2-part article. Click here to read Part 1.

Delivery Stage

RUD's lashing solutions are used to secure wind turbine components during transport. For example, the L-VLBG M36 lashing point is ideal for securing a nacelle.

Jens adds, "When it comes to reliable solutions for safe transport, you can depend on RUD technology. Poor quality load-securing products are the major contributors to accidents in the wind power industry. The cost of a new nacelle or postponing the commissioning of a turbine is costlier than investing in the right load-securing product”. ICE Grade 120 lashings reduce weight while keeping safety paramount. Products such as the ICE-CURT-GAKO ratchet tensioner prevent accidental release, which can happen from vibrations while driving.

Installation Stage

RUD offers custom lifting and handling solutions when installing heavy tower segments and rotor blades. Jens explains, “For lifting and erecting large and heavy tower segments, special attachment points are attached to the flanges of the segment. The RUD T-FRB (FLARIBO) flanged load ring was specially developed for such an application and features a patented thrust bearing washer incorporated into the lateral bearing for 90° loading."

Four FLARIBOs are mounted to the top of the segment and two FLARIBOs to the bottom to erect a tower segment. The segment is then lifted using two cranes and erected in the air. The sling chains move over the deflection rollers of the RUD VIP Chain Block (VCB). The VCB allows load balancing for the segment to be positioned vertically. The flange to flange can then be bolted together. When the four FLARIBOs are removed from the top of the tower segment, the deflection rollers of the VCB prevent the unloaded side of the chain from slipping through and falling.

After the tower is assembled from its individual segments, the next step is to mount the nacelle and hub assembly. "A lifting beam is used to lift the pre-assembled rotor blades for the hub assembly. The lifting beam has two generators and two hydraulic systems, which ensures safe assembly of the hub in the event of a partial failure of the system”.

Operation and Maintenance Stage

It is crucial to ensure personal safety mechanisms are in place while conducting maintenance operations. At such dizzying heights, there is no compromise on risk. The PSA-VRS STARPOINT has been specially developed to secure people by connection with the safety harness.

A RUD PSA-VRS STARPOINT can carry up to two persons, offering the advantage of safe securing of the victim and the rescuer in the event of an incident. The PSA can be rotated 360° and forms a compact securing unit with its special non-removable screw.

 “The stainless-steel variant, PSA INOX-STAR, is designed for permanent outdoor use in challenging weather because of its corrosion resistance," says Christiansen.

Decommissioning Stage

Like installation and delivery, the same products can be used during dismantling and removal. For example, the flange load ring T-FRB (FLARIBO) and the VCB can be used to safely lift pipe segments. The L-VLBG M36 lashing load block, ICE-CURT-GAKO ratchet tensioner and ICE 120 lashing chains can be used during loading and transport.

Offshore plant?

Onshore wind turbines require products that are resistant to corrosion and challenging weather. The RUD ROV-HOOK, designed for subsea applications, is the first of its kind that can be operated with only one robot arm of a robot-operated vehicle, handling loads of up to 25 tonnes. Due to its integrated unique locking mechanism, accidental unhooking is impossible, which is a big plus point for safety.

RUD’s products offer safe and efficient applications in a wind turbine's life cycle from planning, production, transport and installation to maintenance and dismantling.

If you are facing challenges in the wind energy industry, RUD can keep your operations safe and efficient. Contact us today for more details on how we can help you.

RUD will be exhibiting at the Crane Industry Lifting Conference - CICA 2023 from 26-28 Oct 2023. Visit us in Booth #27/28 at the Perth Convention Centre to discuss our Lifting and Lashing Solutions for the crane industry.

Article copyright to RUD; this information is accurate at the time of publication and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.

Sources:

This is a 2 part article.

Wind power is currently the cheapest source of large-scale renewable energy, which involves generating electricity from the naturally occurring power of the wind. Wind turbines capture wind energy within the area swept by their blades. The spinning blades drive an electrical generator that produces electricity for export to the grid.

The Australian renewable energy industry accounted for 35.9% of Australia’s total electricity generation in 2022, up from 32.5% in 2021. This is more than double before the boom started in 2017 (16.9%). While there is still a significant way to go if Australia is to meet its ambitious 82% renewables by 2030, there has nevertheless been encouraging progress.

There are currently over 3,000 wind turbines in operation in Australia, generating enough electricity to power over 2 million homes. Some of the largest wind farms in Australia developed over the last few years include the MacIntyre, Coopers Gap and MacArthur.

While the wind energy industry creates jobs and economic opportunities in Australia, employing over 10,000 people and an additional 10,000 jobs by 2030, it faces a lot of operational challenges, such as:

RUD Solutions for the Wind Energy Industry

RUD is a world leader in lifting and lashing and offers a wide range of solutions for the wind energy industry to increase safety and efficiency in the design - manufacturing - logistics - installation and maintenance processes.

Reliability and Safety are Key in the Supply Chain

According to Jens Christiansen, RUD Slings Division Sales Manager for Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, "Logistics already starts with the design. The designer must plan how the component will be assembled, transported on the road or ship, and installed on-site in the design stage itself. As we know, wind energy includes components that are large and very heavy, which makes the job complex. As the leaders in lifting and lashing technology, we offer versatile solutions for all stages in a wind turbine life cycle”.

Where can RUD help?

RUD’s products and services are used throughout the life cycle of a wind turbine, from the design phase to decommissioning.

Idea and Design Stage

RUD lifting points are reputed for top quality, ergonomics and safety in lifting technology and load securing for more than 35 years. We offer more than 700 tested boltable and weldable lifting points in load ranges up to 250t, which meet maximum safety requirements. Our engineers can work with wind turbine manufacturers to design lifting and lashing solutions that meet the specific requirements of each project.

Production Stage

Whether lifting or moving small components or huge rotors, RUD has a solution for every task in the production process. Lifting, handling, or moving during production can be made more efficient using standard products. For example, the VLBG-PLUS Load Ring is suitable for lifting, rotating, and turning operations due to its large load-bearing capacity, excellent material properties (temperature/corrosion resistance) and ideal design. A VLBG-PLUS can be rotated 360° or swivelled 180° in the direction of the load. This makes it extremely easy to hook the sling into place, saving time and money.

RUD has also developed a Tool Mover with a capacity from 2.5 tons to up to 64 tons. RUD tool movers are widely used and accepted safety devices to guarantee the safe rotating and turning of turbines and critical components. Click to read how Enercon, a German wind turbine manufacturer is using RUD Tecdos Tool Mover to lift, move and turn large rotors of wind turbines.

RUD will be exhibiting at the Crane Industry Lifting Conference - CICA 2023 from 26-28 Oct 2023. Visit us in Booth #27/28 at the Perth Convention Centre to discuss our Lifting and Lashing Solutions for the crane industry.

To be continued ...

Article copyright to RUD, this information is accurate at the time of publication and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors inadvertent or otherwise.

Sources:

Welcome aboard Australia’s leading material lifting and handling technology company.

Click the button to read about us, our products, news, blog posts and everything happening at RUD in Australia and around the world.

Click here to read

RUD is a world-leading manufacturer reputed for top quality, ergonomics and safety in lifting technology and load securing for more than 35 years. We offer more than 700 tested boltable and weldable lifting points in load ranges up to 250t which meet maximum safety requirements in the crane industry. Our lifting points are also integrated into the crane during manufacture by leading crane manufacturers.

Hence, it makes sense to invest in RUD products, not just for safety but also to comply with site specifications. For example, our ICE Grade 120 chains are 30% lighter than the next nominal grade chain which means you carry less weight when lifting loads. Our VIP Maxi Construction Kit offers a WLL (Working Load Limit) of up to 126 tonnes when used with a combination of VIP chains in a double-strand configuration.

With RUD, you can be assured that your operations are safe on-site and for the crane operator.

What can RUD offer as a solution for your investment?

RUD Solutions for the Crane Industry

RUD has been providing lifting and lashing solutions for the crane industry in Australia and around the world. RUD products are trusted by some of the biggest companies in the mining, construction, and quarry industries.

RUD Germany provided lifting solutions for the Filstal Bridges along the Stuttgart 21 on the Wendlingen-Ulm route in Germany. The Fistal Bridges are the third-highest railway bridges in Germany made from pre-stressed concrete and are 485/472 mts in length and 85 metres in height at some points to the bottom of the Fils Valley.

In 2022, RUD Germany lifted the largest and heaviest lattice cage in Berlin. The lattice cage which was part of the infrastructure for a bridge pier in Berlin’s City Centre was 25 metres long and weighed around 56 tonnes. Read the full project here.

RUD Pre-Cast Concrete Hoops

RUD also offers Philipps Pre-Cast Concrete Hoops to lift bridge girders.

In 2022, RUD Australia supplied Philipps Pre-Cast Concrete Hoops to Universal Cranes to lift bridge girders on the Exit 41 M1 Pacific Highway Upgrade in Gold Coast. The 2 x span bridge consisted of 7 girders per span and each girder was 85t with 14 girders in total. Read more about the project here.

How can RUD ensure the safety of your crane, equipment, and people?

Safety is of critical importance in any industry. Accidents involving lifting and lashing points can have serious consequences, including injuries and fatalities. This is why it is very important to use high-quality lifting chains and lashing points that are designed to meet the highest safety standards.

RUD lifting chains and lashing points are the safest choices for you. All RUD products are made from high-quality materials and are designed to perform to the highest safety standards. RUD lifting and lashing points are also available across many sizes, WLL and LC, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.

Summary

We know your investment is important for your business growth. This is why we are happy to work with you to offer custom solutions for your business requirements. All our lifting and lashing products are specified to LEEA and NATA standards. If you are looking for a safe and reliable investment to boost your business profile, RUD is the perfect partner for you.

Article copyright to RUD, this information is accurate at the time of publication and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors inadvertent or otherwise.

For more details on how RUD can help with your crane requirements, please call us on 07 3809 1300 or fill out an enquiry form here.

Sources:

Smart Solution for Lashing Requirements.

Introducing OPTILASH FIX and OPTILASH CLICK, a flexible system of lashing points. They come in an integrated retainer housing to add or remove lashing points and provide significant cost savings in the long term.

How can you benefit by using OPTILASH:

 Available to order. Call us on 07 3809 1300 or visit our OPTILASH product pages FIX or CLICK.

Australia's biggest truck, trailer and automotive show, Brisbane Truck Show will be held at the Brisbane Convention Centre from 18-21 May 2023. RUD Australia and Endurequip Hoists will be on display on Stand #380 with the Australian-Made Portalift Hoists, A-Frame Trailer Adaptors, Vehicle Stands and the RUD Load-Securing Lashing Solutions.

The Brisbane Truck Show is recognised internationally amongst the world’s leading industry business events and organised by the Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA) for over fifty years. The 2023 event promises the biggest line-up of trucks, trailers, components, equipment and technology in the Southern Hemisphere.

Endurequip Hoists is part of RUD Australia and is manufactured in Brisbane as a proud Australian-Made brand for over 35 years. It is the most trusted portable heavy vehicle hoist promoting Australian manufacturing through:

✅ Offering Superior Quality
✅ Supporting Local Businesses
✅ Supporting Local Job Creation

In addition, RUD will be showcasing load-securing solutions such as:

 

Brisbane Truck Show Information:

Exhibition opening hours:

For more information on RUD Load-Securing Solutions or Endurequip Hoists click here to send us an enquiry.

Our most popular weld-on lifting point is now available in stainless steel.

INOX-ABA is manufactured from Duplex Steel 1.4462 which is an ideal solution because it is resistant to corrosion from seawater, water vapour, chlorine, nitric acid and sulphuric acid.
It is also cost-effective due to its lower nickel content.

Suitable for:

 

Check out the features of INOX-ABA:

Available to order. Call us on 07 3809 1300 or visit our INOX-ABA product page here.

© 2024 RUD Group | All rights reserved
Privacy Policy
Legal Disclaimer
Solutions
Industries
Contact Us