Category: News Articles

The AC45-127S at the 2015 Crane Operator and Rigger Championship was held at ICUEE on September 29. 2015.

Altec was honored to host the 2015 Crane Operator and Rigger Skills Championship held at this year’s International Utility and Construction Equipment Expo (ICUEE) in Louisville, KY on September 29, 2015; an ICUEE first. Put on by the Crane Institute of America Certification (CIC) and hosted by Altec on the K-lot during the first day of the show, the championship drew a large crowd despite the pouring rain. The 14 contenders from around the country showed everyone their true talent while negotiating obstacles and running the AC45-127S through the tight course.

The best-in-class Altec AC45-127S boom truck crane was selected for this competition for a variety of reasons. Operators loved the new patent-pending dual-entry tilt cab which provided them the best vantage point to conduct their work during the event. The side-entry of the cab made switching between competitors quick and effortless which helped to keep the event’s momentum going. “One operator commented saying that if it wasn’t for the time-keepers, he would have spent more time in the cab to stay dry,” said Dan Brock, Altec Crane Market Manager. “They really liked the cab’s features and all the room inside of it.”

Dan went on to say that “when Altec was initially approached about supporting the event and providing a crane we knew that these operators were going to be the cream of the crop, and we didn’t want to disappoint. That left us with an easy decision; the AC45-127S which is currently our highest capacity unit. The machine’s solid feel and features like the dual-entry tilt cab and our new Hirschmann LMAP (Load Moment and Area Protection) computer with easy to read, full color display made it an easy choice. From bottom to top, starting with the SafetyTech DICA outrigger mats chosen for the event up to the boom tip, we wanted to make sure nothing was left to question. We are very thankful for the opportunity to show off Altec Cranes at such an important event.”

Altec’s AC45-127S easy to read and intuitive Hirschmann Load Moment and Area Protection (LMAP) pictured left, and DICA SafetyTech Outrigger Mats used during the event pictured right. Both Hirschmann and DICA were event sponsors.

Crane Institute of America Certification, along with event partners and co-sponsors awarded the top prizes to the Nation’s best crane operators. The returning champion from 2014, Kenneth Bowyer of ALL Crane Rental, took home first place defending his position and received a $10,000 cash prize. First runner-up was Eric Gaut of Craneworks in Alabama receiving $2,000 and second runner-up was Jose Villanueva of Bay Ltd. out of Texas who took home $1,000.

The Crane Operator and Rigger Skills Championship marked one of many highlights for Altec at the ICUEE show this year. Altec would like to send a special thanks to Crane Institute of America Certification for the opportunity to participate in supporting the event and their continued efforts to provide our Nation with safe and confident crane operators. As noted in the keynote speech by Dr. Jeanne Fredericks during the awards dinner the night of the crane competition, “By 2018, it is predicted that the industry will see tremendous shortages of crane operators.” She went on to say that “we need to educate parents about the well-paid, rewarding jobs in construction.” Altec agrees with Dr. Jeanne’s comments and will continue to listen to customers and the industry to ensure the best solutions are available to support safety, productivity, and operator convenience. With these, Altec believes we can continue to build our Nation and set a solid foundation for future crane operators to follow.

Two year back-to-back champion Kenneth Bowyer receiving the $10,000 grand prize at the championship awards dinner.

As featured in the November-December issue of Lift and Access

The Results are in: 2015 LLEAP Award Winners Named

Lift and Access originally introduced the Leadership in Lifting Equipment and Aerial Platforms (LLEAP) Awards to recognize products, components, and accessories that are innovative or have advanced the lifting and access industry.

Now in its 10th year, the LLEAP Awards program continues to bring well-deserved recognition to new products that raise the industry’s performance and safety. The LLEAP competition considers five categories of entries: Three categories are types of lifting or access equipment, and the other two focus on unique OEM features and innovative industry-related components or services.

To be considered in the 2015 LLEAP competition, a product, major product improvement, or accessory must have been available in North America and have been introduced or delivered to the market between June 1, 2014, and May 31, 2015.

Below are the top two products in each category, voted on by a panel of judges who have strong experience and are deeply involved in fields related to lifting equipment. Read more about the LLEAP Awards in the November-December issue of Lift and Access.

Cranes

Gold: Altec AC40-152S Dual-Rated Boom Truck

Altec Inc.’s new AC40-152S boom truck is engineered as a dual-rated product whose crane mode of operation complies with the ASME B30.5 standard and whose aerial mode of operation complies with the ANSI A92.2 aerial-lift standard, when the unit is outfitted with optional equipment.

When the unit is configured for aerial operation and outfit­ted with optional equipment, the operator can send crews aloft to heights of more than 220 ft. When it is configured for crane opera­tion, the user has all the benefits of a 40-ton telescopic-boom crane with a 152-ft. maximum main-boom length.

The dual rating minimizes setup time and the amount of equip­ment needed on a project.

The AC40-152S’s other innovative features include a patented Dual Entry Cab that provides safe access throughout the upper­works’ entire range of rotation. The optional 20° tilt feature delivers a clear view overhead.

Altec’s new LMAP system displays load on the hook, rated capacity percentage, boom length and angle, and load radius. It also lets the operator define audible alarm set points for area protection.

The patent-pending, quick-attach platform reduces installation time with a lightweight bracket that secures to the main boom, the end of the jib, or the optional composite reach extension. Once the bracket is attached to any of those locations, the operator can simply extend the boom until the bracket engages the platform.

Longer outrigger cylinders that allow easy setup on uneven ter­rain, reduce the amount of cribbing needed, minimize setup time, and enable more payload space on the truck.

Judges’ Comments

• Delivers impressive capacity at extreme height in small stowed package.
• Having aerial lift and crane functionality in one machine will greatly increase project efficiency.

View the complete list of LLEAP Winners.

There are a number of uses for bucket trucks, including the ones listed in this article. Various industries use bucket trucks, digger derricks and cranes on a daily basis. Determine your need, know your equipment, operate safely and have fun!

• 1:   Electric Utility & Telecom
• 2:   Lighting & Sign Maintenance
• 3:   Construction
• 4:   Forestry, Tree Care & Landscaping
• 5:  Fire Rescue
• 6:  Exterior Painting
• 7:  Window Washing
• 8:   Fruit Picking
• 9:  Animal Rescue
• 10: Photography & Film Making

Search for your solution in our online inventory.

The time has come to purchase a digger derrick for the business; however, buying a new one is out of the question. The only option left is to purchase used Digger Derricks. There are questions as to whether the business will get full value from a used digger derrick. There are many reasons why purchasing a used vehicle is worth the investment. Following are some of those reasons:

• Many Good Quality Trucks – The economic downturn created problems for many people a few years ago, leaving bad memories such as job losses and repossessed property. These unfortunate events have opened up better opportunities for others. As a result of this crisis, the market is filled with gently used Digger Derricks for incredibly low prices. Therefore, buying one of them right now is a golden opportunity that shouldn’t be misses.
• Less Risk – With the current economic condition, buying used Digger Derricks is also advantageous. This is true because any business owner considering such a purchase knows the costs as well as the risks of purchasing a new digger derrick in this kind of economy. Buying a used version of this vehicle is a much better chance to take.
• Shorter Loan Term – When financing used Digger Derricks, buyers do not have to be concerned about the burden of an expensive loan for a long period of time because these trucks generally have a shorter loan repayment period.
• Low Depreciation Rate – Another advantage of buying used Digger Derricks is the lower depreciation rate. With a new truck, depreciation can be as much as 30 percent in the first three years. With a used version, depreciation is still applicable; however, the value of the truck takes longer to depreciate.
• Lower Insurance Premiums – Insuring the truck is the next cost for any vehicle owner. Insurance rates are typically higher for property damage coverages over the first few years; this obstacle is avoided with the purchase of a vehicle that is beyond those first years of ownership. A lower premium cost is one benefit of buying used Digger Derricks.
• Affordable Price and Flexibility – Another obvious benefit of used Digger Derricks are their affordable price. One of these vehicles can cost as much as 50 percent less than the truck’s original price. There are many other ways any business can use the money saved.

The advantages listed above are what to expect when choosing to buy a used digger derrick. Since the digger derrick has already been used by a previous owner, the possibility of getting a poorly functioning truck still exists. Following are some ways to ensure finding a quality vehicle when purchasing used Digger Derricks.

• Purchase Fleet Trucks – Increase the chance of buying a quality used digger derrick by purchasing fleet Digger Derricks. Fleet trucks are run by utility companies that have strict regimens in maintaining their vehicles and they sell their used Digger Derricks in good condition.
• Check the Odometer Reading – The odometer records the number of miles the truck has traveled over the years of its operation. When buying used Digger Derricks, avoid vehicles with high odometer readings as this means that the truck could require major maintenance costs in the near future.
• Check the Maintenance History – The maintenance history is a record of repairs and servicing the truck has undergone over its lifetime. Make sure that any used Digger Derricks that are considered for purchase have been regularly serviced and does not show involvement in a major accident.
• Use a Reliable Dealer – The internet is the best place to look for used Digger Derricks. Make sure to be cautious, however, as there are some deceptive dealers on the internet. Be sure that the dealer is associated with a major manufacturer and has a good reputation.

By following any or all of the suggestions listed above, the reasons should be clear why buying a used digger derrick now is a wise choice to make. Any doubts that previously existed about buying used Digger Derricks should be gone by now and the question of “To Buy or Not to Buy” yields a very definitive answer – Yes!

For more than 85 years, Altec has proudly provided equipment and services to electric utility, telecommunications, tree care, contractor and lights and signs companies in the United States of America. With the recent Fourth of July holiday, we reflect on the pride we have for our American-made products. We know that without the hard-working men and women of this great country and the freedoms given to us by our Founding Fathers, we would not be where we are today.

In this spirit, we’re proud to announce a series of “Made in America” posters developed to highlight the values that make our equipment and associates a key part of the manufacturing sector that keeps our customers and America running.

Below are two of the posters that will be available for order in the near future. Be on the lookout for an announcement with the link to order the posters.

We hope everyone had a safe and happy holiday. Let’s also take time to remember those who sacrificed so much to make this the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Key Considerations for New and Used Bucket Truck Purchasing

Deciding whether to buy a new or used bucket truck comes down to two things: what you need and what you can pay. Finding a balance between needs and costs may seem as much art as science, but you don’t need to compromise either in the process; it’s about finding the best fit for you.

Before You Start the Search

Budget and needs go hand-in-hand. Alex Senf, Altec Senior Account Manager, walks his customers through a NEADS analysis before ever considering a final decision. This simple analysis, originally developed by Tom Hopkins, is critical to establishing a good starting point for an equipment search.

Now. What do you have now in terms of make, model, function, body type, etc.? If the answer to this is nothing, that’s okay. Focus on what you want a piece of equipment to do for you.

Senf recommends starting out with the following spec details: platform size (one man or two); material handling or non-material handling; insulating or non-insulating; line body or flatbed; and under CDL or over CDL chassis.

Also, consulting with someone with a similar job application to gain experience with features found on different pieces of equipment can be beneficial.

Enjoy. What do you enjoy about that piece of equipment? Dedicate some time to discovering the features that make your specific job easier and those you can do without. Sometimes eliminating something simple like an extra bin or ladder compartment can equate to big savings.

“Often it’s very easy to knock off several thousand dollars on the price of a truck if the buyer goes through a spec sheet, line by line, to decide what’s needed and what isn’t,” said Senf.

Alter.  What would you change? Consider the limitations of what you currently have. Do you need to lift personnel higher, prevent rusting, improve payload, eliminate engine idling?

Decisions. How are decisions made? This doesn’t just include the process, but also who is involved in making the decisions. Including the right people in the decision making process ensures that costs/budget and needs/requirements for use stay balanced throughout the decision process.

Solutions. Listening well and understanding needs throughout the process leads to the best solutions for the seller and the buyer.

Purchasing New Equipment

No two purchases, or needs, are exactly the same. While every request is different, some take you to the realm of customization – a specific ladder rack or tool box, for example – that may only be available from a new equipment purchase.

Ed Hunter, President of Horizon Lighting in California, has purchased a variety of new and used trucks for his lighting maintenance and construction business.

“Many times, it’s a tough decision whether to buy new or used,” said Hunter. “I’ve had great experience with both new and used purchases from Altec. Before making an investment, it’s important to have a good understanding of what you’re going to do with the truck including how high you need it to go, the unique locations of your job sites and the tool storage you need,” said Hunter.

Like Senf suggests, testing other equipment is a great way to learn the features that make your job easier.  When it comes to a piece of equipment that is being tested or considered, the features may be the most important aspect to analyze.

“A lot of times, a customer will want a truck exactly like one they’ve seen used by someone else,” said Senf. “I always ask them why. Without going over each spec, line by line, the customer could end up paying thousands of dollars more than what they really need.”

Before and After
Figuring out what you need your equipment to do for you is the first step. Then what? It’s time to think about the future and how you will use and care for equipment.

Service and repair are part of owning and maintaining any piece of equipment. Working with an equipment provider that offers convenient access to mobile technicians and service centers provides peace of mind.

“With any equipment purchase, make sure the company you’re doing business with has the ability to provide service and support after the sale,” said Senf.

For some owners, the costs incurred from downtime sometimes associated with older pieces of equipment are enough to invest in a newer unit with less mileage.

“When I have a truck go down, that kills my business,” said Hunter. “Having a reliable piece of equipment doesn’t always mean new, but the new trucks we have purchased have had a much better track record for repair costs over a long period of time than the used vehicles.”

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Purchasing Used Equipment

Since used equipment typically costs about half the price of new, it’s often a cost-effective choice for some buyers. With the proper planning, purchasing used equipment can mean reduced acquisition costs and a dependable, certified used equipment investment.

Casey Tolley, Altec NUECO Account Manager, notes that advertised used equipment prices don’t vary too greatly from dealer to dealer. What can vary is the diligence associated with inspecting and testing used equipment.

“Make sure your equipment has undergone an annual service inspection including dielectric testing on the boom, as well as annual testing on the unit and chassis,” said Tolley.

With all equipment, routine maintenance and service are an inevitable part of ownership. Working with a dealer that has inspected your equipment and can help provide maintenance can make the wear and tear on your equipment, and you, a lot less stressful.

“I choose Altec because I like dealing directly with the manufacturer of my equipment,” said Hunter. “They build the equipment, so they are the best at repairing and maintaining it. I have a mobile service tech in my area, so when I run into a problem, I know who to call for both my used and new equipment.”

An equipment auction, like those conducted by JJ Kane Auctioneers, is a great place to find used equipment at a low price, especially if the equipment is needed quickly. Contractors often have jobs requiring immediate needs for a piece of equipment or multiple pieces of equipment for a short period of time. Once the job is finished, purchasers often have the option of re-selling their trucks again at auction.

“If you are a new business owner with a limited budget and you want to make sure you’re making the right decision, consider working with a used equipment dealer,” said Tolley. “If you’re more experienced with equipment and know how to choose what’s right for you, an auction might have what you’re looking for.”

Auctions usually allow buyers to come the day before to touch, see, feel and operate the trucks before they place their bids. Bring the correct people to help make the decision including operators and a mechanic, if you have one. Once a piece of equipment is purchased at auction, it’s yours, so come prepared with what you want and include the right people in your selection.

The used equipment market is extensive and changes every day, so finding what you need shouldn’t be a problem, but building in a timeline to your search helps.

“If you want four tool bins, but you can only find a truck with three, keep looking,” said Tolley. “A good dealer will be able to find it for you. If you have time on your side, you can afford to be picky with your truck.”

The more information you know about the truck including its usage, engine hours and maintenance records, the more likely you are to make a sound investment. Trucks once belonging to an organization requiring regular upkeep and maintenance, like electric utilities and municipalities, usually make trustworthy purchases.

“We’ve had great experience with buying used trucks from municipalities,” said Hunter. “They perform standard service checks and are generally maintained very well.”

Search our used inventory

Bottom Line

Whether you decide to go the new or used equipment route, what’s most important is to get what you need. If you purchase a low mileage, low PTO truck at an auction, but it doesn’t meet your needs, it doesn’t matter what kind of deal you got on it. Establish a budget, know your needs, include the right people in your decision, find a trusted equipment partner and be patient, if you can.

“I never try to encourage one or the other—new or used,” said Senf. “Understanding a need and finding the best solution is always the best way to serve.”

Altec engineers our digger derricks with the equipment and systems that make the work you do easier, like digging holes at an angle or lifting maximum loads. Here is a list of ways to maximize the performance and safety of your Altec Digger Derrick.

Perform Full Range of Motion Checks

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI A10.31) requires digger derrick users to perform a test of all functions through the complete range of motion prior to each work shift. Without this simple rule, there is no other way to ensure the unit is fully functional before it’s put to work. An added side benefit is exercising hydraulic cylinders and bearings, and circulating lubricant within the unit.

RotaFloat: Screw Anchor Installation Made Easy

An experienced operator knows that installing a screw anchor with a digger derrick can be a challenging task to master. Achieving just the right combination of Boom Down, Boom Rotate, and Boom In/Out control is tricky enough, but adding in tough soil or bad weather conditions can challenge any operator.

Altec’s RotaFloat system eases the challenge by allowing Boom Rotation to automatically follow the sideways pull of the screw anchor. This system allows the operator to concentrate more on applying downward pressure and precisely controlling the anchor’s angle. Using RotaFloat also reduces side loading, which means less wear and tear on components during anchor installation. Order as an option on your new Altec Digger Derrick or order a kit to retrofit your model.

Consider Your Travel Height

Before traveling with an Altec Digger Derrick, it’s important to position the pole guides fully forward every time the boom is stowed to ensure the digger derrick height is at or below its posted travel height. Another important travel consideration is determining the minimum clearance height of obstacles along the planned route, including power line crossings, and compare them with the height placard inside the unit cab. Violating minimum power line approach distances can have life-threatening consequences. Develop good operator safety habits like careful route planning to help avoid accidents before you put the key in the ignition.

Know Your Structural Limits

Altec Digger Derricks are designed and tested for rock-solid reliability at their maximum load rating. Hydraulic Overload Protection (HOP), a standard feature on Altec Digger Derricks, is a big contributor to efficient operation and derrick safety.

When downward pull on the boom reaches the safe maximum hydraulic load, HOP disables certain functions of the digger derrick. For example, when digging a hole, too much downward pressure on the auger can quickly increase the load on the boom. The operator might not notice or react in time, but the HOP system will turn off the dig function before the load exceeds structural limits.

During lifting operations, HOP is an important structural protection feature involved in disabling Winch Raise, Boom Extend, and Boom Lower functions to prevent overload. Although HOP cannot prevent instability or replace an operator’s proper use of capacity charts, it’s a valuable tool for monitoring structural limits.

Maintain Five Winch Drum Wraps

Keeping five wraps of winch line or more on the drum ensures your unit can safely handle its rated load. Your Altec Digger Derrick was built with the proper length of winch line installed. However, shortening or replacing it with an improper length of line could create an unsafe situation, especially when using full boom extension and multiple parts of line. Always ensure replacement parts meet Altec specifications, and make a habit of visually checking the winch drum prior to lifting a load at maximum radius.

Want to learn more about safe, efficient digger derrick operation? Contact us to request a hands-on training with Altec’s safety professionals.

Trade show season has arrived and Altec is kicking off this year at The Rental Show in New Orleans, LA, Feb 22-25 at booth # 6721. We look forward to meeting with you personally to find out more about your business and how we can provide equipment that meets the low-maintenance, ready-to-work requirements for you and your customers.

Through our extensive network of Mobile Service Technicians and Service Centers located throughout the United States, we are here to help eliminate downtime and get the most out of your equipment. Engineering, Sales and Financing resources will be available to help you answer all of your rental questions.

Here is what you’ll see from us at the show:

Tier 4 Diesel Engine Technology

Altec will display a Tier 4 Diesel Engine on our DRM12, 12-inch control-feed drum chipper. Tier 4 Diesel Engines are designed to yield cleaner air with fewer emissions for you and your crew. All Altec chippers are available with the option of gasoline or diesel engines.

Small Machine, Big Results

For the first time at the Rental Show, Altec will display its newest, award-winning DSC6 wood chipper. The DSC6 is built to handle big tree care contractor jobs, but designed with ease of maintenance and operation for any user. Whether you’re renting to a large tree care company or a customer with a big backyard project, this lightweight wood chipper can do it all.

Financing Assistance Available

Representatives from Altec Capital will be available at the show to help you with your rental equipment financing game plan. Enter for a chance to win a 30 oz. Yeti Tumbler when you fill out a credit application.

Equipment on Display at the Show:

Need an Upgrade? Altec Capital Offers Trade-in Credits with Options

Altec Capital is now offering trade-in credits of up to $20,000 toward the purchase of a new or new-to-you unit. Once approved, you will receive trade-in credit for a new lease on an EFA or $1 Purchase Option. Both of these options provide a variety of flexible payment plans, including monthly, annual and skip payment options.

What’s an EFA?

An Equipment Finance Agreement (EFA) offers the tax benefit of ownership, including depreciation and interest expense deductions. This agreement is for the person who desires immediate equipment ownership yet wants to pay for the equipment over an extended period of time.

What’s a $1 purchase Option?

A $1 Purchase Option Lease allows the lessee to take ownership of the equipment after the final payment on the lease is made. It is treated for accounting purposes as a purchase even though it is being financed over a period of time.

How do I Claim My Trade-in Credits?

1. Complete a credit application online today.
2. An Altec Capital representative will contact you with the credit decision and to schedule an inspection.
3. Work with your representative to choose a leasing option that works for you.

Terms and conditions may apply. Based on credit approval.

The AC40-152S can easily transform from crane to aerial mode of operation in a matter of minutes.

Altec recently launched the AC40-152S designed for construction and transmission applications that meets both aerial and crane industry standards. Having both an aerial and crane mode of operation, (complying with ASME B30.5 and ANSI A92.2) this product is built for the operator who needs it all.
Contact Us

The AC40-152S will be added to the Global Rental fleet, and is now available to order. To learn more about Altec cranes and equipment, call 866-966-2969 or contact an Altec representative online.

Are You Ready?

Don’t be caught off-guard! The New OSHA Requirements for Arc Flash Clothing, Harnesses, Lanyards, and Fall Protection Equipment will be effective April 1, 2015. Altec Supply offers the OSHA approved equipment that will help you keep your employees safer.

The New Rule, 1910.269

Qualified Employee: A qualified employee must use fall protection when climbing or changing location on poles, towers, or similar structures, unless the employer can demonstrate that climbing or changing location with fall protection is infeasible or creates a greater hazard than climbing or changing location without it. The changes for qualified employees are effective April 1, 2015.

Arc Flash: Personal fall arrest equipment must be capable of passing a drop test after exposure to an electric arc if the workers using fall arrest equipment are exposed to flames or electric arc hazards. The OSHA electric arc/heat energy level of 40+/- cal/cm2, is the same as the ASTM F887 arc flash requirement. Therefore, if the at height worker is exposed to flame or arc flash hazards, the use of arc flash fall arrest equipment is required. Arc flash compliant fall arrest equipment (harnesses, lanyards, and self-retracting lanyards, ASTM F887 reference) will meet the new OSHA regulation.

Please contact your Altec Supply Account Manager or call 1-877 GO ALTEC (1-877-462-5832) for assistance.*

Altec Supply offers OSHA approved equipment

As featured in September/October 2014 issue of Electric Energy T&D Magazine.

Disaster preparedness best practices from those who know

By Jason Tower

For the contractors, utilities and cooperatives who use them, the platform of a bucket truck is likely to be associated with helping customers. In times of disasters – from the string of tornadoes in 2011, to the Northeast superstorm, to hurricanes and more – those trucks and the people who work from them represent hope and recovery. And that process is never simple, never easy.

Bringing restoration to thousands – or millions – requires expertise, experience and knowledge, something that Altec and the hundreds of people who use Altec products have learned over the years. While the winds are calm and weather gentle, now is the time to consider the perspective of experts, those who have learned from dealing directly with disaster.

Communication

Often when thinking of communication, the focus is on what happens during an event, and it should be. But just as important may be developing some strong relationships and communication practices beforehand.

During the string of tornadoes in April 2011, cellular towers located throughout portions of north central Alabama were destroyed, making cell phone reception impossible or, at best, challenging. Coordinating efforts or even getting maintenance parts and equipment to where it was needed was difficult.

As crews worked to restore power, Altec representatives were at a staging area at the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center, sourcing repair parts, diagnosing issues and providing on-site, on-time help. Several times a day, these representatives would meet with various foremen, who would let them know what was needed – replacement parts or repairs – and from there, techs could coordinate and find the parts needed to keep crews working.

“With cell service disrupted, crews had to rely on other things: CBs, two-way radios and word of mouth,” said Brent Bridier, Altec Service Representative. “What became important was having specific meeting places and locations to get supplies and help, and pre-planned processes for delivery.”

With 16-hour days, contractor and utility crews providing recovery assistance were sheltered, organized and given assignments for the next day. Many of these crews were from out-of-state, so maximizing what was learned and needed in a short span of time was crucial, as was planning beforehand by the utilities to cooperate in restoration. If parts needed to be ordered, they were sourced from a nearby facility or ordered from Altec Parts Central Distribution, then delivered directly to the crew’s work sites.

Cleveland Utilities, which services Cleveland and Bradley counties out of eastern Tennessee, is an active member of the Tennessee Valley Public Power Association (TVPPA). Associations like the TVPPA coordinate mutual aid recovery during natural disasters such as the tornadoes of 2011.

“With a 15-truck fleet and 60 percent of our customers without power after the tornadoes, we had no choice but to rely on aid from other utilities,” said Bart Borden, Cleveland Electric Utilities Division Vice President. “Through the coordination of the TVPPA, we were able to easily source available crews throughout the southeast and have since returned the favor to some of the crews who helped us during that time.”

And according to Borden, being prepared includes knowing who to turn to in recovery: “When crews come in to help, we always send someone who knows our systems with them – not linemen but meter readers, installers, etc. And if the event is large enough, we’ll ask for help from retired linemen who know our practices and have been such a huge asset to us in the past.”

“Having someone who you already trust ready to help, that’s the best communication preparation possible,” said Todd Neil, Altec Global National Sales Manager. “The best way to prepare before disaster is to develop relationships with contacts before you need them. Know numbers, names and faces associated with your equipment, service and parts dealers. Know where your help will come from.”

Rentals

The utility equipment rental market is dynamic. Available equipment changes by the minute, especially during times of natural disaster. With the cost of equipment on the rise and the ongoing upgrades to the electric grid system, the market has seen an increase in rental demand.

Securing rental equipment before it is needed is critical. Immediately following a natural disaster, affected Altec customers receive a list of available rental equipment and can reserve what they need depending on the size and scope of the event. Other providers typically provide similar lists.

However, at that point, the demand is high and the supply fluctuates. “When it comes to securing equipment during a disaster, it’s best to commit as early as possible,” said Neil.

Contract terms are important to understand when making the decision to invest in rental equipment. When a recovery period is uncertain and a rental company charges based on a minimum term, the customer is then faced with making the decision to pay for a predetermined length of time without knowing how long they will need to use it.

Fleet managers often make the decision to use older, owned equipment for disaster recovery. The practice of utilizing older units to use during long hours of maximum capacity work load can be unreliable and cost the business in the long run. Recently serviced and inspected units that crew members are familiar with operating serve as the best trucks to have for recovery.

Equipment rental vendors will often work with companies to develop a customized rent/purchase program, which ensures the utility will have rental equipment available during hurricane season. These programs add extra equipment to the fleet purchase for the following year, but the extra “storm pool” units are delivered before next year’s delivery date. The utility pays the monthly rental fee for the availability of the equipment, but receives rental credit toward the purchase of the storm pool units on the following year’s budget.

“Having a built-in insurance policy of storm recovery units, built to a utility’s specification, that can be used in the event of a hurricane is wise,” said Neil. “And having the pre-existing relationship is also beneficial to the customer.”

Keeping Trucks Moving

One thing that is true of any disaster is to expect the unexpected. Equipment will need maintenance; parts will be required and service techs will be in high demand.

“The best parts to have on hand for any emergency are common preventative maintenance and wear items,” said Altec Parts Representative, Matt Kennedy. “Digger derricks or material handling aerial units heading into a disaster area are much more effective with spare load lines.”

From lifting transformers on a material handling aerial to placing poles on a digger derrick, load lines take a lot of wear and tear during disaster recovery. The common, yet incorrect, practice of “flipping” a damaged load line on the drum can potentially lead to a major problem. Extra hydraulic fluid and filters as well as hydraulic hose and seal repair kits with field fittings that don’t require crimping can handle on-site hydraulic leaks. Keep these parts available in a mobile parts and supply trailer that can be accessed from a central staging location.

Southern California Edison (SCE) provided mutual aid during Superstorm Sandy of 2012. Jim Wood of SCE Construction Methods team utilized two mobile service trucks equipped with a manager and two trained mechanics each, stocked with preventative maintenance parts, as well as equipment like portable welders and lubricant.

“My one regret is not bringing our own supply trailers,” said Wood. “The utilities underestimated the amount of supplies they would need to distribute to recovery crews, so our guys had to wait on extra supplies like power poles and other line materials. Even if the trailer is never used, the amount of time you won’t waste waiting for supplies is worth it.”

Foothills Energy Services (FES) provided assistance to Mountain View Electric Association during the Colorado Black Forest Fires of 2013. An unprecedented event for that area, the crews worked 15 hour days for six weeks. President of FES, Steve Marr, now keeps extra flame retardant clothing on hand as well as air filters. Covered in soot and ash, the air filters needed to be changed once a day.

On the Ground and on to Recovery

Sometimes, the lesson learned from a disaster is that having the right equipment or staffing makes all the difference. Bart Borden, Cleveland Utilities, added an Altec A77T following the devastating tornadoes of 2011. The utility assigned mutual aid workers to replace the 250 distribution poles that were down, while the city of Cleveland assigned their crews to restore their damaged 69 kilovolt transmission system.

“The 2,000 pound jib and the working height on the A77T would’ve been extremely useful to reach our 75 to 90 foot transmission poles,” said Borden. “If we had that truck during the tornado recovery, we could have accomplished a day-and-a-half of work in about six hours.”

Cleveland Utilities also invested in a collapsible reel to extend off the shaft of their front winch on the A77T. Instead of spending hours manually coiling damaged power lines, the collapsible reel is a cost effective way to maximize the productivity of a front winch on utility vehicles.

From trucks to people, mobilizing enough crew members can also make a difference. From his experience with Superstorm Sandy, Wood, Southern California Edison, recommends adding an additional crew member to each vehicle to ensure a safer, more productive recovery effort. Now, they send one digger derrick for every three aerial devices with one foreman, two linemen and one groundsman.

And while the focus during a crisis may be on restoring utilities and serving the needs of the community, making sure that the people who are doing the work of restoration are taken care of is just as important.

“Safety items,” said Tony Gaede, Altec Supply Manager. “Ground flags, safety signs and stands, lights and rainwear … and personal voltage detectors, such as V-Watch. Customers need to have plenty of these and make sure they are in good working condition.”

“The relationship between vendors and local utilities really shines in these times,” said Dwight Johnson, Altec Mobile Service Technician. “Providing a common point of reference for contractors – like a website set up by utilities – can help source assistance and supplies, from local vendors, to hotels, fueling locations and more.”

In the end, the purpose of being prepared is to make the restoration quicker and safer. The point of planning ahead is to remove minutes, when minutes count. It’s people who work the lines, trucks and poles when the work of restoration begins. And it’s the people who ultimately make a difference.

“We can talk about trucks and maintenance and restoration, but the most important thing all of us can do is provide the safest, most efficient recovery environment possible, so the real heroes can get out there and do their jobs,” said Gaede.

Utilities, contractors and municipalities have a big job to do when natural disasters strike. Being prepared for natural disaster is the only way to make it through these tough times. Altec is here to help you make wise decisions that will contribute to a successful preparedness plan that will bring you and your fleet through the toughest times.

Plan to stay in business

When the power is out, the community relies on you to get them reconnected and back in business as quick as possible. With a wide variety of electric utility, telecom and tree care equipment to fit any budget, Altec has the products you need to re-energize your customers.

Altec Capital has a dedicated team to help purchase the needed equipment in your fleet through leasing and loan options that make sense for your budget. Find a leasing option that will improve cash flow and increase your overall profitability.

Altec’s Global Rental offers no minimum period rental requirements to help you make the best decisions without the pressure of deciding how long you will need to rent needed equipment. When the rental environment is at peak utilization during a natural disaster, it is critical to act fast to make sure you have the right amount of equipment to get the power back on.

Immediately after a disaster, affected Altec customers receive a list of available rental equipment and can reserve what they need depending on the size and scope of the event.

Protect Your Investment

When you make an investment in Altec equipment, we want to make sure you have plenty of resources available throughout the lifecycle of your fleet. To ensure your equipment is in work-ready shape during disaster recovery, Altec offers a 12-month preventative maintenance inspection. The preventative maintenance inspection can be performed at one of our 27 service centers located throughout the U.S. and Canada or one of our fully stocked mobile service trucks will come directly to you.

The best way to protect your crew is to give them the knowledge they need to work safer and smarter. Altec Sentry Training offers OSHA/ANSI compliant instructor-led and online training tools to ensure your crew is ready to put your investment to the safest use possible.

Communicate to Your People

Often when thinking of communication, the focus is on what happens during an event, and it should be. But, just as important may be developing some strong relationships and communication practices beforehand.

Make sure to have a well-established plan and practice good disaster communication before you need it. Coordinating recovering efforts or even getting maintenance parts and equipment to correct locations can be difficult.

Larger disasters can cause cell phone communication to be disrupted or, at best, unreliable. Establish specific meeting places and locations to get supplies and help, and pre-planned processes for delivery.

In the end, the purpose of being prepared is to make the restoration quicker and safer. The point of planning ahead is to remove minutes, when minutes count. It’s people that work the lines, trucks and poles when the work of restoration begins. And it’s the people that ultimately make a difference.

As hurricane season approaches, it is important to get your trucks stocked with the supplies you need if a storm or other natural disaster affects your area. When a hurricane is headed your way, here is a quick list of some items that Altec’s Mobile Service Technicians recommend having to prevent downtime and keep you up and running.

Respond to natural disasters, like hurricanes, with the peace-of-mind knowing you’re equipped and ready for whatever the long day of recovery brings.

Call 877-GO ALTEC and select option 1 to speak with an experienced parts representative.

Please Note: Maintenance should only be performed by trained and qualified mechanics.

Load Lines

Hydraulic Fluid and Filters

Spare Digger Derrick Pole Tongs

Hydraulic Hose Repair Kits

Complete O-Ring Seal Kits

“Customer First” is one of Altec’s strongest commitments. This is evident in the equipment we build, which provides our customers with the solutions they need to get the job done. Customers are at the forefront of every decision we make to offer the best possible products and services. This commitment was recently exemplified in a unique situation—to an even more unique customer.

After removing the boom, front tires and platform ladder for shipping purposes, a newly purchased AN650 was successfully delivered to the Alaskan North Slope’s most scenic village, Anaktuvuk Pass. With the help of Altec Service team members, Ron Steele and Shawn Hedleston, the 50-foot aerial device made it to the hands of the customer—all in “one piece”.

The Anaktuvuk Pass, a village of about 400 people, is located on a historic caribou migration route. The native Inupiat people, who still comprise 83 percent of the village’s population, nicknamed it “the place of the caribou droppings”. The Anaktuvuk Pass has two general stores, a post office and a small airplane landing strip. The village’s economy is largely based on subsistence farming of Caribou.

When Altec account manager Nick Zevenbergen made the call to Steele and Hedleston to ask for their help in the delivery, they gladly accepted the challenge. When the Borough purchased the AN650 earlier this year, they requested a July delivery deadline. In the Arctic Circle, traveling becomes difficult in late summer/early fall due to thick fog, inconsistent weather patterns and for the Anaktuvuk Pass villagers, the caribou. Between the months of August and September, thousands of caribou make their way through the pass. The small village stops day-to-day activity to hunt the year’s caribou bounty.

“When I originally spoke with Ron to ask for his help in completing the delivery, he suggested taking an extra pair of hands in case there are any setbacks,” says Zevenbergen. “I’m glad he made the recommendation.”

This is the third AN650 the North Slope Borough has purchased this year for overhead distribution work throughout the village. With the first arriving on a barge, the second delivered on a track unit called a rolligon and the third being taken apart and flown in on a cargo plane, each delivery was more unique and challenging than the last.

Steele and Hedleston began their “adventure” in Anchorage at the service bay of Chugach Electric, another Altec customer, who graciously allowed the use of a service bay and some equipment to remove the boom. After measuring the cargo plane dimensions, the group realized they would need to make further alterations before it would fit. To make it work, they had to also remove the platform ladder and the front tires.

Once the group had the truck packed and ready for takeoff, they took a small prop plane the extra 60 miles to Anaktuvuk Pass to await the truck’s arrival. After a two-day weather delay, the cargo plane in Anchorage departed for its final destination—Anaktuvuk Pass.

There are no hotels in the village, so the people were kind enough to lend the travelers a modular home until the cargo plane arrived. Meanwhile, they took in the sights, met some of the locals and ate…Hot Pockets.

“We were warned that the food situation was going to be pretty slim in the village,” says Steele. “Food shipments are very inconsistent due to weather, so they have to price their convenience items really high.”

At the local general store, Steele noted the price on a box of cereal was $7, while the price of one frozen Hot Pocket was $4. Caribou is their bread and butter in Anaktuvuk Pass. They thrive and depend on that food source more than a frozen item shipped in on a cargo plane.

“Thanks to the dedication of the service team, the North Slope Borough received the equipment they need to keep their village connected,” says Zevenbergen.

Altec is committed to providing our services and solutions to the most remote portions of the globe to the bustling big cities of the world. Whatever your location, situation or limitation, Altec does what it takes to ensure communities receive the equipment needed to succeed.