Algood Archives

6Nov 0

In uncertain times, here’s what I’m sure about

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This is a time of great uncertainty. There are mixed signals from the economy. Inflation is falling while overall growth falters. Reduced interest rates drive some investment, but many companies still face new realities. War and conflict persist in Ukraine and the Middle East, each with cascading impacts. As I write this, political leadership is in flux. Believe it or not, even in the face of all that, there is much that I am sure of. I believe that North American values will remain strong, and despite lower prices elsewhere, the value of North American manufacturing will become increasingly evident. I believe there will always be opportunities for well-engineered and well-made products. Most importantly, I believe in a strong future for Algood.

For over 55 years, the Algood brand has been built on four pillars: manufacturing excellence, a design focus, innovative solutions, and putting our customers at the centre of everything we do.

As we look forward, I am certain our commitment to each one will continue, and I am excited to tell you about some ways that will happen.

I’m entirely sure about our commitment to engineering and design. During COVID, our sole focus was meeting healthcare needs; many new projects were put on hold. In the aftermath of the pandemic, we also devoted much attention to re-engineering our manufacturing equipment, acquiring new machinery and designing new production processes. Now, our R&D efforts are in overdrive. The new year will bring our most ambitious product announcement in a decade. We’ll be introducing a new series of casters designed to meet the mobility needs of today’s material handling and technology sectors.

I can confidently say that our commitment to being the next generation of Castersmiths remains strong. For us, this has always meant combining deep caster knowledge and time-honoured craftsmanship with the most current technological solutions.

We are one of the only North American caster manufacturers to maintain a robust in-house tool and die centre—and it’s busy. We are creating new dies and moulds for the new series. In addition, we are re-tooling to improve the production of existing casters and wheels.

This year, we introduced our CADLAB™, providing online engineering access to 14 casters. Unlike many competitors, we allow users to configure a caster that best meets their needs by selecting from a wide range of options, including wheels, top plates, brakes, stems, and bearings. They can then download 2D drawings or 3D models of the rendered caster for precise design implementation. By the end of the year, all our 2” diameter wheels will be fully configurable in the CADLAB™, and in the first quarter of 2025, many new series will be added.

In addition, we have continued to add new equipment and expand our use of robotics to improve the efficiency of our metal stamping and assembly divisions. The result is significantly greater productivity and output that dwarfs previous totals.

I log thousands of travel miles, meeting face-to-face with customers to ensure we meet their current needs and are prepared to meet their requirements well into the future. We are constantly innovating in small and large ways to react to and anticipate our customers’ needs.

In the face of tremendous flux in the economy and both domestic and foreign affairs, Algood represents a sea of certainty. Our steadfast commitment to our long-standing values and a future fuelled by our beliefs is firm. We are excited to offer our customers something they can always be sure of.

President's Blog

12Sep 0

13 Tips to Avoid a Cyber Disaster

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Cyber security and best data management practices have been on my mind lately. In part, that’s because there are almost weekly stories of corporations being subjected to ransomware attacks or having their data stolen. And lately, a number of our customers have found themselves caught up in cyber fraud. Being subjected to data theft or computer-related criminal activity can be financially punishing and highly stressful. That’s why we devote huge attention to cybersecurity and responsible data practices at Algood. Based on what we’ve learned and our ongoing scrutiny, I’ve created a 13-item action list to help our customers, suppliers, and colleagues avoid a cyber disaster.

First and foremost – don’t provide any bank, financial or payment information in response to an email or online request. Avoid responding to or in any way interacting with emails that are even the slightest bit suspicious. Criminals are very ingenious these days and can make emails look like they are perfectly legitimate. To confirm that an email is a scam, check the sender’s reply email address. Most often, you will see that it is totally unrelated to the company the email purports to be from.
Consider implementing domain monitoring software. Domain monitoring protects your company’s domain name from potential cyberattacks. These may include phishing schemes, website hacking, and impersonating business websites. Without this protection, cybercriminals can mimic your brand, deceive customers, or spread malware.
Consult your accountants. Many accounting firms have specialists or entire departments focused on cyber security. They can be a source of best practice and worthwhile advice.
Implement anti-virus and security software. To have any cyber-protection, this is a must-have.
Change passwords every six months and use a password vault. This is an easy form of cyber-fraud prevention.
Use multi-factor or two-factor authorization when signing into any financial or accounting software or platforms.
Use password protection software. These programs generate and store indecipherable passwords and safely house credit cards and personal or payment information.
Perform multiple backups of all data regularly – weekly at a minimum.
Ensure that your business insurance policy includes cyber-protection and cybersecurity provisions/coverage.
Consider creating a safe room where any central computer device is located. Special access is required and provided to the smallest possible number of people.
Conduct regular cyber security audits.
Control access to sensitive data. Only a very small number of people using very tight procedures should be able to access online financial, banking, or payment information.
Add malware detection software in addition to anti-virus software. Undetected malware can quickly bore its way into critical computer data. Anti-virus software will not necessarily find malware.

Being cyber-secure is an ongoing process that requires regular attention. Cybercriminals are very smart and constantly adopt new and more dangerous techniques. I encourage you to be vigilant and make sure that data and computer security are always top of mind.

If you encounter anything unusual, you think we should know about, or if you have any questions about data security, please don’t hesitate to email or call.

President's Blog

21Aug 0

Innovation: Kingpinless, Stainless, Hex – Now That's Innovation

Kingpinless + Threaded Stem + Hex Head – Now, that’s innovation!

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There are over two million caster configurations in our catalogue because of our proven ability to innovate by modifying existing designs. With our fully integrated manufacturing facility and knowledgeable and creative design/engineering team, we make small changes that achieve big results. In this e-series, we look at our successes in creating caster configurations to meet customers’ needs.

This custom caster configuration stands out because it incorporates not one but two unique modifications.

Our customer, a leader in the development of technology solutions, contacted us with the requirement for a high-capacity caster that could be easily installed on specialized equipment. They specified a kingpinless caster to accommodate heavy equipment while maintaining long time durability. In addition, they needed a threaded stem on this 2,000 lb. heavy-duty kingpinless caster, and if that wasn’t enough, they wanted a hex head at the top of the stem.

Our design and engineering team rose to the challenge. We started with a Twister™ kingpinless head. The custom-made threaded stem was CNC machined in our manufacturing facility and then tack welded to the head. We worked very closely with the customer’s engineering staff. Before we released the product, we had to ensure the caster would be fastened securely and correctly to maintain the safety of equipment and employees.

Because the hex head allows the stem to be torqued into position, it takes installation from minutes to seconds. The stem can be screwed down quickly and allows equipment to be accurately levelled.

The caster pictured above has a stem that is 1″ in diameter and 6” long. While we stock 4” stems, we can meet specific length requirements and have produced stems as long as 12-14”. Stems are available threaded or plain, in steel or stainless steel and can be equipped with cotter pin locks or grip rings.

This custom-made caster is a product of our ingenuity and commitment to meeting our customers’ requirements. It’s just one example of what’s possible in our fully integrated manufacturing facility. To learn more about this caster or how we can meet your unique customer needs, contact your local Algood representative or a member of our customer service team.

Algood is proud to manufacture its casters and wheels right here in North America. With our fully integrated manufacturing facility in Toronto, we are leaders in quality and innovation. For more information about Algood Casters, Call: 1-800-254-6633 or Email: Service@Algood.com

Innovate

16Feb 0

Celebrating Family Values & Our Next Generation

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For years, we have been describing ourselves as the “Next Generation of Castersmiths.” While that refers to how we combine expert craftsmanship with the most advanced technology, it’s taken on a new and much more exciting meaning recently.

With Family Day this coming Monday and Algood’s 55th anniversary the day before, we thought it was the perfect time to introduce Elie Guttmann to the Algood community. Following in the footsteps of his father Craig Guttmann, Algood’s President and his grandfather Max Guttmann, Algood’s Founder, Elie is now literally the next generation of castersmiths.

Elie’s journey from a successful career in non-profit marketing to the world of caster and wheel production was fueled by a desire for new challenges and a shift from a digital to a tactile work environment. “Selling products that are physically built is a gratifying experience,” says Elie, emphasizing his newfound appreciation for the manufacturing sector’s role in the economy.

Currently supporting the U.S. sales effort, Elie is immersing himself in the intricacies of Algood’s product line, aiming to understand every caster, wheel, component, and configuration. His grandfather’s determination and success are an ongoing source of pride and inspiration. He has dedicated himself to following in his grandfather’s footsteps with aspirations of eventually contributing to Algood’s leadership team.

Elie’s focus on marketing-centered projects has been evident, particularly in the redesign of Algood’s website. With a keen eye for detail, he invested countless hours conceptualizing, developing, and implementing the new design, now channelling his efforts into optimizing the website’s performance as a marketing tool.

Craig sees this generational collaboration as invigorating. He appreciates Elie’s fresh ideas and unique perspectives, especially noting his contributions to the catalogue and website. “We are a unique manufacturer and needed just the right website to tell our story, and Elie nailed it,” says Craig, emphasizing the importance of innovative marketing in showcasing Algood’s uniqueness.

Craig acknowledges that certain aspects of the business can only be learned through experience. “There are things you can’t possibly learn at school—assessing ROI, how and when to take risks and how to practically understand engineering all have to be learned by making mistakes,” he asserts.

A large part of what sets Algood apart is the values that come from being a family-owned enterprise. “We still hold close to my father’s values in how we operate this company,” Craig relates. “That makes having a third generation working in the company even more meaningful.”

This represents a promising new chapter for Algood. Elie is helping to fuel our growth through fresh perspectives and well-honed skills. Craig and his brother Sean, VP of Manufacturing, see the renewed energy that Elie’s innovative ideas, optimism, and excitement are infusing into the company. And, they are confident that Elie will uphold the cherished family values that have propelled Algood’s triumphs for over five decades. In the months and years ahead, we are certain you will hear much more about Elie’s contributions to Algood’s success as our dynamic “next generation of castersmiths.”

News

26Jan 0

To Determine Capacity Start with Weight

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Weight is one of the things that we don’t like to talk about, but when it comes to determining the capacity of a caster, it’s a must-have discussion. At first, calculating the required capacity of a caster would seem simple. Start with the weight of the equipment to which the casters are being fastened. Divide by four, and Bob’s your uncle.

But not so fast. There are lots of other considerations.

Load Weight. It’s not just the weight of the equipment that you have to think about. You must also include the weight of whatever is going in or on the equipment. And this isn’t a time to be modest about weight. Be sure to calculate the absolute maximum load that the equipment will carry.

Floor Surface. An uneven surface means that all four casters will not touch the floor at the same time, which means that a smaller number of casters will bear the load. Your capacity calculation must be based on the minimum number of casters that will be in contact with the floor at any time.

Wheel Selection. To reduce noise, avoid marking or provide a smoother ride, customers often choose soft tread wheels, like rubber and polyurethane. But here’s the thing. Those wheels generate more surface friction making a piece of equipment harder to move. The solution is to select casters with higher capacity.

Movement. A caster’s specified capacity usually assumes movement at a walking speed – up to 3 miles or 4.8 kilometres per hour. However, if your equipment is moving faster than that, let’s say as part of a towline, the caster’s capacity will be reduced. That’s because increased speed leads to increased wheel temperature and greater friction. Also, many starts and stops also increase surface friction and require casters with greater capacity.

Caster Components. Many components impact capacity. The choice of bearings, for example, can offset capacity requirements by increasing a caster’s rollability. In addition, using a stem will increase the capacity requirement by 25%. Be sure to discuss the effect of components when specifying a caster.

Practical Wisdom – Divide by Three. After almost 60 years in the caster business, we have lots of practical wisdom – particularly regarding capacity. So, here’s a gem that you should keep in mind. When calculating capacity, divide the load weight by three, not four. That creates a 33% safety allowance to account for uneven surfaces or unforeseen stops and starts. It may cost a little more but it will keep your employees safe, protect your investment in what is being transported, reduce maintenance costs, spare you a ton of aggravation and may even save a bundle of money in the long run.

For much more information about capacity, contact your local Algood representative or a member of our customer service team. Just remember that when you’re talking about capacity, it’s not a time to be shy about weight.

For help choosing the caster that best meets your needs, contact your Algood Sales Rep or reach out to our customer service team by email service@algood.com or by phone at +1 (800) 254-6633.

CasterU

12Oct 0

Mixed Signals

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Here in Toronto, as we enter the third quarter, the weather has turned dramatically colder. It feels like autumn. That may be the clearest signal facing us. The economy, global politics, the caster industry and even our own customers are all sending mixed signals. You are likely facing some of the same unpredictability. In the spirit of offering our customers and colleagues some insight, here’s what we see and what we’re doing about it.

Higher interest rates are continuing to have an impact. The cost of capital investments has become prohibitive to some and potentially destructive to others. In our own business, we had the foresight to delay some planned projects and the acquisition of equipment. We will be fine but some of our affiliated companies as well as some of our customers are in precarious positions. With the potential for even higher interest rates, the economy remains hard to read.

The labour market has become much tighter. It’s really hard to get well-qualified employees with specialized skill sets. We have decided that we’re not going to feel pressured and settle for second best. For example, it recently took us months and countless candidates to hire a superb electrician. Other businesses may not be in the position to wait for the right talent.

On the positive side, supply chains are strong. Prices of raw materials and other production inputs have steadied. That’s allowing us to effectively plan for 2024 by securing our supply chains and ensuring that our manufacturing capability remains dependable.

However, the price of oil is precarious. Current events in the Middle East have the potential to put dramatic upward pressure on the cost of oil. That, in turn, could have cascading effects on supply chains.

The move toward reshoring is growing. We continue to receive calls from customers who want to reduce or eliminate their offshore purchasing and replace it with North American-made materials. In fact, our orders from customers specifically switching to materials made in North America have increased significantly.

Many of our customers have ambitious plans for 2024 and that is fueling our research, design and engineering efforts. Our R&D initiatives are progressing very well. We expect to introduce a number of new casters in the coming year.

Despite the uncertainty, we recently introduced a new website and are committed to continuously enhancing our online presence through greater CAD functionality and more resources for our customers. Our online catalogues are continuously updated so that you can always get up-to-date product information. We are constantly seeking to improve the user experience on the website. Please share any feedback.

These mixed signals make it very hard to predict what will happen with the economy and the caster industry in the coming months and into 2024. But we are certain that if we continuously improve our integrated manufacturing facility in Toronto and maintain our commitment to outstanding design and engineering, we can’t go wrong. More importantly, we know that our success will be guaranteed by keeping our customers at the centre of everything we do.

What are the mixed signals you are seeing in your businesses? Take a moment and let me know. Who knows. Together, we might be able to make both our companies stronger.

On a more personal note, I want to thank all of you who have called or emailed with your kind messages about what is happening in Israel. With many relatives and friends in Israel, the current events weigh heavily on me and my family here. Your wishes and concerns are comforting.

President's Blog

Tag: Algood