Question: Is prime material always required in your non-structural applications?

Innovation doesn't happen by accepting the status quo. We actively seek to create innovative solutions by asking our customers the right questions and listening to their answers. For instance, we know from experience that A36-prime material may not always be required for certain non-structural applications. When we saw that A36 was specified in a counterweight RFQ from our client, a leading crane manufacturer, we recognized an opportunity to talk to them about more cost-effective materials.

	The mounting lug was re-designed to extend through the thickness of the counterweight, instead of a weaker surface weld.

Though our client was eager to reduce costs on their counterweights, we understood that maintaining structural integrity and safety was critical to any design alteration. By encouraging clear dialogue between purchasing and engineering we were able to meet both requirements; lower cost and superior quality. Our solution centered on an integrated mounting bracket.

Instead of the original surface welded bracket, we designed and specified a mounting lug that extended through the thickness of the top slab. This LB/Coburn innovation resulted in a lower cost solution that was structurally superior to the original design. What started out as a simple question to determine the right materials for a stacked counterweight resulted in a better product and cost savings of over $1000 per unit.

	LB/Coburn delivered finish-painted counterweights that saved our customer over $1000 per unit.

LB/Coburn can help you find an innovative approach to your product needs. Talk to us, we'll listen.