Roll-up giant United Rentals Inc. has hung a “For Sale” sign on its front door as part of an executive-level reshuffling. United’s board of directors announced in a regulatory filing and press release on April 10 that the rental operator is exploring “a broad range of strategic alternatives...including a possible sale of the company.” The world’s largest rental company also noted that chief executive Wayland R. Hicks plans to retire at the company’s annual shareholder meeting on June 4. Michael J. Kneeland, who is chief operating officer, executive vice president and an aerial work platform guru, will succeed Hicks as
Mobile Generator: For Easy Transport The 29-kW John Deere rental-grade mobile generator set with trailer offers a full-blown construction site product as well as the ability to be a backup power source for a facility. The generator offers a mobile platform and multiple voltage with the turn of a switch. It is offered with a 2-year/1,500-hour limited warranty, aluminum rust-proof enclosure and a built-in fuel tank, allowing up to a 48-hour run time. It is designed to be quiet, operating at 68 dB, and can be switched from three phase to single phase using an advanced voltage change-over switch. Triton
Humidity Assessor/Digital Hammer: Two New Products James Instrument Humitest System measures bore hole humidity in hardened concrete, according to the manufacturer. The product allows the concrete practitioner to monitor and ensure that a new structure is dry enough to start the next phase of construction. This is especially critical for concrete structures requiring a coating, carpeting or similar floor or covering treatment. The James D-W-2000 digital test hammers are an automated system for estimating concrete compressive strength. Its calculation, memory and recording functions allow for quick, easy and accurate test results. The unit comes with an integrated alphanumeric digital display
When DaimlerChrysler says its 2007 Dodge Sprinter is longer, wider and taller than previous models, it¹s not kidding around. DaimlerChrysler New Sprinter offers more cargo space. Any husky electrician, plumber or other craft worker who needs ample room to work will find it in the 2007 Dodge Sprinter, with some models offering as much as 600 cu ft of storage space. Earlier versions could accommodate a 6-ft-tall person standing up in the back cargo area, but the 2007 edition has been heightened in some cases to an impressive 7 ft. The increased headroom is one of many new features that
Paving Machine: Can Pour From Left and Right Manufacturer introduces the Power Curber 5700-C, a new model in its 5700 series of curb and gutter, sidewalk and barrier slipform paving machines. The 5700-C can pour from both the left and right sides, and is equipped with a quiet and efficient computerized Cummins engine. A new standard swivel chute allows the paving machine to pour in a single traffic lane with the concrete truck lined up in front of the machine instead of to the side. The operator platform has been riased for better visibility. Power Curbers Inc.; 704-636-5871; www.powercurbers.com Ladder
Manufacturers of surveying equipment are pointing their scopes toward the horizon, and they see their world getting smaller. Tudor Van Hampton "Bubba" can survive a 2-meter drop. Topcon's recent bid to acquire Sokkia for an undisclosed sum reflects a frenzied demand for high-tech gear that is forcing some positioning companies to team up so they can compete globally. The two Japan-based manufacturers of total stations, global positioning systems and other survey gear say they are joining forces because demand for their specialty equipment is putting a crunch on their ability to meet sales and at the same keep up technically.
Robot: Latest Hydrodemolition Model The Conjet Robot 364 MPA can remove concrete from numerous surfaces, with minimal set-up time. Reaching up to 19.7 ft above and 16.4 ft to the side with an improved multipurpose arm, the robot can operate with a reaction force equivalent to a water jet generated by a 550-kW high-pressure water pump. The product includes hydraulically height-adjustable steering wheels, and is electrically powered so it can be used in tunnels and parking garages without producing any exhaust gases. Conjet AB; 46(0)8 5565-2240; www.conjet.com Underlayment: Self-Leveling Manufacturer introduces Ultraplan Easy, a fast-setting, self-leveling underlayment. This product greatly
Tool System: For Carpenters and Other Crafts The ALLASO tool system is an innovative tool system that organizes, stores and transports handheld tools and accessories. The exterior frame and structure is made of industrial-strength plastic that is weather and chemical resistant. The system features removable and adjustable storage compartments, a built-in halogen task light, adjustable handle, large-diameter pneumatic tires, easy assist lift for lifting and loading and built-in key locks for security. It is available in brown, dark grey and black. List price is $199.99. The KK-Yas Corp.; 248-663-4029; www.allasotoolsystems.com Vocational Truck: Improved Visibility and Maintenance The Set-Forward Sterling heavy-duty
Cabover Truck: Ideal for Concrete Pumping The new TerraPro Cabover is an evolution of Mack Trucks' popular MR model, according to the manufacturer. Features include ergonomic seats, electronic guages and the next generation of Mack's vehicle management and control system to better control costs and monitor truck and engine performance. The vehicle comes standard with the EPA '07 certified 11-liter Mack MP7 engine, ranging from 325 hp to 405 hp with torque ratings from 1,200 lb ft to 1,560 lb ft. Mack Trucks Inc.; 800-922-MACK; www.macktrucks.com Concrete Mixer: "Out-of-the-Box" Mixing The CreteSheet is a durable, rectangular, polyethylene sheet treated with
Helsham The road ahead for the world’s highways is looking costly—China alone has billions of dollars in the works through the next decade’s end. So, instead of trudging down a long path of designing its own paving machines, Volvo Construction Equipment is taking the express lane. Volvo has decided to buy its way into the $4-billion-a-year roadbuilding equipment business with a $1.3-billion cash offer for Ingersoll-Rand’s road group. Volvo CE President Tony Helsham says it “fits exceptionally well.” The two companies expect to close the sale in the second quarter. It would make Volvo one of the top producers of
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