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When it comes to maintaining heavy-duty material handling equipment such as cranes and hoists, ensuring uninterrupted operations is critical. Companies across industries depend on the seamless performance of this equipment, making crane site support services an essential component of their operational strategy. American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO) stands as a trusted partner, providing expert site support to keep your operations running smoothly.
We tailor crane site support services to meet the unique needs of each company, ensuring equipment is optimized for safe, reliable and efficient operation. At ACECO, we understand that no two companies are alike, which is why we offer personalized support solutions designed to fit your specific requirements. Our team of experts collaborates closely with your representatives to determine the most effective site support services for your operation.
For companies with skilled in-house teams, ACECO can provide supervisory support, guiding your staff through essential installation, operational, or maintenance procedures. However, if your workforce lacks the specialized skills needed for comprehensive crane maintenance, ACECO offers extensive turnkey solutions. From crane installation and upgrades to complete rebuilds, we ensure that your cranes are fully functional and ready to meet the demands of your operation.
Commitment to Safety and Precision
Safety is at the forefront of everything we do at ACECO. Our technicians are meticulously trained to execute installations and repairs with precision, adhering to the highest safety standards. We carefully plan each project, identifying and mitigating every potential risk before work begins. This approach guarantees flawless installations that provide ultimate safety and stability for your equipment.
A team of highly experienced crane experts, well-versed in the complexities of crane systems across various industries, manages our site support services. With extensive knowledge in a multitude of industries, our team ensures meticulous care and attention to detail in every installation or repair.
Expert Support for All Industries
American Crane’s site support services extend to a wide range of industries, including power plants–where we have extensive experience, particularly in nuclear facilities–and other large-scale processing and manufacturing plants. Our offerings include plant outage crane support services, OSHA compliance inspections, and 24/7 maintenance and repair services. We understand the urgency of keeping your operations running without interruption, and our team is ready to respond rapidly to any site support needs.
In addition to our field services, our advanced manufacturing facility allows us to quickly fabricate spare parts and components, ensuring your cranes and hoists are back in operation as soon as possible.
Why Choose American Crane?
American Crane delivers high-quality solutions tailored to your specific needs as a leading manufacturer and servicer of cranes, hoists, and material handling equipment. Our mission is to provide the best equipment for the job, backed by expert services that maximize productivity and safety.
To learn more about our crane site support services and how we can help maintain uninterrupted operations at your facility, contact our site support team or request a quote. Let ACECO be your partner in keeping your equipment–and your business–running smoothly.
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As a recruiter at American Crane & Equipment Corporation, I’ve seen my fair share of heavy lifting—and I’m not just talking about the cranes. Recruiting in the overhead crane industry is like trying to find a needle in a haystack, and the haystack is made of solid steel, and the needle has an engineering degree. This sector is the backbone of many industries, from manufacturing to nuclear energy, and the need for top-notch professionals continues to get heavier.
The Talent Shortage: The Shallow End of the Pool
One of our current challenges is having to swim in the shallow end of the talent pool. The overhead crane industry is highly specialized, demanding a workforce with expertise that goes beyond the basics. We’re talking about mechanical systems, engineering principles, safety protocols, and technical know-how. Unfortunately, these skills don’t just grow on trees, and they’re certainly not something you can pick up with a weekend YouTube binge. The result? Fierce competition for qualified professionals, and a need for us to be as strategic as a chess grandmaster when it comes to attracting and keeping the best in the business.
The Must-Haves: What We’re Looking For
Interested in joining American Crane as a Crane & Hoist Service Technician? Having the following will lift you to the top of our list:
Technical Expertise: We want candidates with a background in mechanics, hydraulics, and electronics—basically, someone who can make a crane dance the tango if needed. Experience with crane systems, hoists, and other lifting equipment is a must.
Safety Awareness: Safety isn’t just a checkbox here; it’s our mantra. We’re looking for people who eat, sleep, and breathe OSHA regulations and other safety standards. You know, the kind of person who would wear a hard hat to a picnic.
Problem-Solving Skills: Our ideal candidate can troubleshoot on the fly—whether it’s a malfunctioning crane or a rogue seagull on the job site. Quick thinking is the name of the game.
Certifications and Training: NCCCO certifications? Yes, please. We love candidates who commit to professional standards and continuous learning. It’s like having an extra layer of armor on your resume.
Industry Know-How and the All-Important Cultural Fit
We value technical skills, but we also seek individuals who immerse themselves in the industry culture. The overhead crane industry isn’t just about moving heavy stuff; it’s about understanding the nuances, challenges, and advancements that come with the territory. We want candidates who geek out over the latest crane technology, stay on top of safety protocols, and know what regulatory changes are around the corner.
Cultural fit is an enormous piece of the American Crane puzzle. We’re looking for people who not only have the technical chops but also align with our values, including our commitment to GRIT Matters. GRIT is at the core of our success – we believe in putting Perseverance, Heart, and Integrity in everything we do. You can learn more about how GRIT happens at American Crane by visiting americancrane.com.
The Road Ahead
As we look to the future, one thing is clear: the overhead crane industry is evolving, and so are the skills we need. At American Crane, we’re committed to staying ahead of the curve by refining our recruitment strategies and ensuring our team is ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow. So, if you’re up for the challenge, we’re ready to lift you to new heights—literally and figuratively. Visit Careers (americancrane.com) or email me at dfritzinger@americancrane.com to find out how we can work together.
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At American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO), we know that every industrial operation demands efficiency, reliability, and precision. Our bridge cranes are designed to meet these needs, providing a powerful and efficient way to handle heavy loads. Whether you’re moving materials across a factory floor or lifting equipment in a manufacturing facility, our bridge cranes ensure that your operations run smoothly and safely. Discover how bridge cranes enhance industrial lifting efficiency and streamline operations with tailored solutions for your unique needs.
What is a Bridge Crane?
A bridge crane, also known as an overhead crane, is a vital piece of equipment in many industrial environments. It consists of several key components:
Bridge: The bridge is the central structure of the crane, made up of girders, trucks, end ties, a walkway, and a drive mechanism. This structure spans the width of your workspace and supports the trolley, which carries the load. The bridge moves along a
fixed runway, allowing the crane to transport materials efficiently across the area.
Bridge Girder: The bridge girder is the main horizontal structural member that supports the crane bridge. Supported by end trucks, the girder evenly distributes the load’s weight as the crane moves along the runway beams.
How American Crane Supports Your Efficiency
At ACECO, we design our bridge cranes to optimize your operations. Here’s how we support your efficiency:
Precision Handling: Our bridge cranes provide precise control over load movement, allowing you to position materials accurately. This precision minimizes the risk of damage and enhances safety, ensuring that your operations are both effective and secure.
Enhanced Safety: With our overhead cranes, the lifting and moving of heavy loads are automated, significantly reducing the risk of workplace injuries. We design our cranes to keep your team safe while managing large items from a safe distance.
Streamlined Workflow: Our bridge cranes enable quick and efficient material movement, reducing downtime and boosting productivity. We optimize your workflow from start to finish by tailoring our solutions to your specific needs.
Partner with ACECO for Your Bridge Crane Needs
At American Crane & Equipment Corporation, we are committed to providing material handling solutions that enhance your efficiency and safety. We build our bridge cranes to withstand the demands of your industry, whether you need a standard system or a custom solution tailored to your unique requirements.
Let us help you elevate your operations. Request a quote today to learn more about how our bridge cranes can support your business. For personalized assistance or to explore our full range of products, contact us today. Don’t forget to visit our store to find the perfect material handling equipment for your needs.
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In industrial and manufacturing environments, effective material handling is essential for maintaining productivity, safety, and efficiency. Overhead cranes are a pivotal solution, offering the ability to lift, move, and position heavy loads with precision. Understanding the basics of these systems and the best practices for their use can significantly benefit your operations. Master the basics of overhead cranes with key insights and best practices from American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO)
Understanding Overhead Cranes
Overhead cranes are integral to many industries, designed to move heavy materials across large spaces with minimal floor obstruction. These systems, including bridge cranes and gantry cranes, operate on trucks that allow for movement on three axes–horizontal, vertical, and longitudinal. This versatility makes them suited for various tasks, from transporting materials across a factory floor to precisely positioning loads for assembly or processing.
Why Choose Overhead Cranes?
The advantages of overhead cranes are numerous. They maximize floor space by operating above work areas, freeing up room for other operations and reducing the risk of accidents caused by floor-based equipment like forklifts or conveyors. Additionally, overhead cranes are capable of handling significantly heavier loads, improving overall efficiency and reducing the physical strain on workers.
One of the true values of overhead cranes is their ability to streamline your operations. By enabling direct-path transportation over obstacles such as machinery and workstations, overhead cranes can increase your facility’s productivity and reduce the likelihood of product damage due to mishandling.
How ACECO Can Support Your Overhead Crane Needs
At American Crane & Equipment Corporation, we specialize in providing tailored overhead crane solutions that align with your specific needs. Our team of experts will work closely with you to assess your facility’s requirements and recommend the most suitable crane systems, whether it’s a bridge crane for spanning large areas or a gantry crane for flexible, mobile lifting capabilities.
We don’t just stop at supplying the equipment. ACECO offers comprehensive support services, including installation, maintenance, and upgrades, ensuring that your overhead cranes operate at peak performance throughout their lifecycle. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction means you can trust us to deliver reliable, efficient, and safe material handling solutions that drive your business forward.
Ready to Enhance Your Operations?
Overhead cranes are more than just a tool–they’re a strategic investment in your facility’s productivity and safety. Contact American Crane & Equipment Corporation today to learn how we can help you implement the best overhead crane solutions for your business. Request a quote, reach out to our team, or visit our store to explore our full range of products and services. Let us help you master the basics and beyond.
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At American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO), we pride ourselves in offering top-of-the-line material handling solutions to meet the diverse needs of our customers. One of our standout products is the CM® Series 622A Hand Chain Hoist, a versatile and efficient tool designed to enhance your lifting operations.
Why Choose the CM® Series 622A Hand Chain Hoist?
The CM® Series 622A Hand Chain Hoist is renowned for its simple yet robust design. It features an ultra-low-headroom profile, making it an ideal choice for operations in confined spaces. This lightweight hoist, constructed from high-quality steel, ensures ease of installation and maneuverability. The CM® Series 622A delivers exceptional performance in any industrial setting.
Key Features
Efficient Design: The CM® Series 622A requires minimal pull force for operation, ensuring smooth and effortless lifting. This efficiency reduces operator fatigue and increases productivity.
Enhanced Hook Throat Openings: With larger hook throat openings, the hoist allows for easy attachment and secure lifting. This feature enhances safety and reliability during operations.
Versatile Capacity Options: Available in various capacities and lift heights, the CM® Series 622A Hand Chain Hoist can handle loads ranging from ½ ton to 5 tons, with standard lifts from 10 to 30 feet. Customizable options are also available to suit specific requirements.
Why ACECO?
At ACECO, we provide our customers with high-quality material handling equipment that meets your specific needs. Our partnership with Columbus McKinnon, a leading name in the industry, ensures that the CM® Series 622A Hand Chain Hoists we offer are of the highest standard. Our team of experts is always available to provide support and guidance, ensuring you get the best solution for your lifting requirements.
Columbus McKinnon: A Trusted Name in Lifting Solutions
Columbus McKinnon (CM) is a worldwide leader in the design, manufacture, and marketing of intelligent motion overhead lifting solutions. Their range includes motion control technologies, products, and automated systems tailored for commercial and industrial use. CM are known for their long-lasting durability. Their products, including hooks, chains, hoists, cranes, and trolleys, can be used independently or as part of a comprehensive system. ACECO is proud to offer an extensive CM product line, ensuring that our customers have access to reliable and innovative lifting solutions.
Explore Our Range of CM Series ® 622A Hand Chain Hoists
The CM® Series 622A Hand Chain Hoist is an indispensable tool for efficient and reliable lifting operations. With its robust construction, ease of use, and versatile capacity options, it is a valuable addition to any industrial setting. Visit ACECO today to explore our range of CM® Series 622A Hand Chain Hoists and discover how we can enhance your material handling operations.
Contact us to learn more about our products and services or to request a quote. Our team is ready to assist you in finding the perfect lifting solution for your needs.
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In the fast-paced world of industrial operations, the safety and efficiency of equipment are paramount. One critical aspect of crane operation safety is the implementation of anti-collision systems. These systems use electrical means to prevent two or more cranes from contacting each other, ensuring smooth and safe operations in shared working environments.
What is an Anti-Collision System?
An anti-collision system is a safety mechanism designed to prevent collisions between cranes operating in the same area. By utilizing advanced electrical and sensor technologies, these systems detect the proximity of cranes to each other and take necessary actions to avoid collisions. This is particularly important in environments where multiple cranes operate simultaneously, such as construction sites, warehouses, and manufacturing plants.
How Do Anti-Collision Systems Work?
Anti-collision systems typically consist of sensors, control units, and warning devices. Here’s how they function:
Proximity Sensors: These sensors are installed on cranes to monitor the distance between them. They use various technologies such as ultrasonic, infrared, or laser to detect nearby objects.
Control Units: The control unit processes the information received from the sensors. When it detects that two cranes are approaching each other too closely, it triggers predefined actions to prevent a collision.
Warning Devices: Upon detecting a potential collision, the system can activate warning devices such as alarms or lights to alert the crane operators. In some advanced systems, the control unit can automatically adjust the crane’s speed or stop its movement to avoid contact.
Benefits of Anti-Collision Systems
Enhanced Safety: The primary benefit of anti-collision systems is the significant enhancement of safety in crane operations. By preventing collisions, these systems protect both personnel and equipment from accidents and injuries.
Operational Efficiency: With anti-collision systems in place, cranes can operate more smoothly in shared environments. This reduces downtime caused by accidents and ensures that operations run without interruptions.
Cost Savings: Avoiding collisions means fewer repairs and less maintenance, leading to substantial cost savings over time. Additionally, preventing accidents reduces the risk of liability and insurance costs.
Improved Productivity: When cranes can operate safely and efficiently without the constant risk of collisions, overall productivity improves. Operators can focus on their tasks without worrying about potential accidents.
Applications of Anti-Collision Systems
Anti-collision systems are used in various industries where multiple cranes operate in close proximity, including:
Construction Sites: To prevent tower cranes from colliding during high-rise building construction.
Warehouses: For indoor overhead cranes managing large inventories.
Manufacturing Plants: Where assembly lines may have multiple cranes working simultaneously.
Ports and Shipyards: Ensuring safe movement of large cranes loading and unloading ships.
Optimize Crane Operations
Anti-collision systems are a vital component of modern crane operations, enhancing safety, efficiency, and productivity. By leveraging advanced sensor and control technologies, these systems ensure that cranes can operate in shared spaces without the risk of collisions. For industries aiming to optimize their crane operations, investing in anti-collision systems is a smart and necessary choice.
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At American Crane and Equipment Corporation (ACECO), our core values are the foundation of our culture and the driving force behind everything we do. These values not only guide our interactions with customers and colleagues but also shape our approach to work and innovation. Today, we’re excited to share how our core values Have Fun, Effective Listening and Be Lean enable us to create a dynamic and efficient workplace.
Have Fun
Work should be more than just a place to clock in and out. At ACECO, we believe that having fun at work boosts morale, fosters creativity, and strengthens team bonds. We encourage our employees to find joy in their tasks, celebrate achievements, and participate in team-building activities. Whether it’s a company-wide event, a spontaneous office celebration, or simply enjoying daily tasks, we ensure that fun is a part of our daily routine. This positive atmosphere not only enhances productivity but also makes ACECO a great place to work.
Effective Listening
Effective listening is at the heart of our communication strategy. At ACECO, we understand that listening is more than just hearing words; it’s about understanding the needs, concerns, and ideas of our colleagues and clients. By practicing active listening, we foster a culture of respect and collaboration. This value ensures that every voice is heard, promoting a more inclusive and innovative environment. Whether it’s during a team meeting, a client consultation, or a casual conversation, we prioritize listening to ensure that everyone feels valued and understood.
Be Lean
Efficiency and continuous improvement are crucial in today’s fast-paced world. At ACECO, being lean means streamlining our processes, eliminating waste, and constantly seeking ways to enhance our operations. This value drives us to adopt best practices, embrace new technologies, and encourage a mindset of innovation and adaptability. By being lean, we not only improve our bottom line but also deliver superior value to our customers. This commitment to efficiency ensures that we remain competitive and responsive to the ever-changing demands of the industry.
Integrating Our Core Values
Our core values of having fun, effective listening, and being lean are interwoven into every aspect of our business. They influence how we interact with each other, how we approach our work, and how we serve our clients. By living these values, we create a dynamic and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
At ACECO, we are proud of our commitment to these core values and strive to uphold them in all that we do. They are the principles that guide our success and help us build lasting relationships with our customers and our community. Join us in celebrating these values and experience the positive impact they bring to our workplace and beyond.
By embracing these core values, ACECO not only fosters a productive and enjoyable work environment but also ensures that we continue to deliver excellence in every aspect of our business.
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At American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO), our commitment to providing the highest quality material handling solutions is exemplified by our strong partnerships with leading industry vendors. These collaborations allow us to offer a diverse range of products and services, ensuring that we meet the specific needs of our customers across various sectors. Here’s a closer look at the esteemed vendors we work with and the exceptional products they bring to ACECO.
Columbus McKinnon (CM)
A Leader in Intelligent Motion Overhead Lifting Solutions
Columbus McKinnon (CM) is a globally recognized designer, manufacturer, and marketer of motion control technologies, overhead lifting products, and automated systems. Known for their durability and reliability, CM’s products include hooks, chains, hoists, cranes, and trolleys. At ACECO, we provide an extensive range of CM products, ensuring we can meet a wide variety of customer requirements.
Key CM Product Offerings at ACECO:
Chains & Wire Ropes: We stock a variety of chains and wire ropes, including guide chains and drum load chains.
Hoist Frame Components: With over 280 options, we cater to various suspension types.
Control Components: Our inventory includes over 200 control components, such as limit switches and transformers.
Hooks/ Lower Blocks: Choose from over 400 options, including latchlok and collar hooks.
Brake & Gearing Components: We offer a wide range of brake and gearing components to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Cleveland Tramrail
Innovative Monorail Systems and Overhead Crane Solutions
A subsidiary of Gorbel ®, Cleveland Tramrail has been a leader in the industry for over a century. Known for their patented underhung systems and Tarca ® free-standing and ceiling-mounted crane systems, they provide high-capacity solutions for various applications, including paint and line coating, foundries, and laboratories.
Key Cleveland Tramrail Product Offerings at ACECO:
SAFTPOWRBAR ® Components: Including collector leads, conductor bars, couplings, and more.
“ST” Collectors and Brackets: Essential for maintaining and supporting monorail systems.
Gorbel
Ergonomic Lifting and Material Handling Solutions
With over 40 years of experience, Gorbel specializes in ergonomic lifting and material handling equipment. Their products range from monorails and jib cranes to workstation cranes, capable of handling loads from 40 pounds to 50 tons. Gorbel’s solutions are designed to enhance productivity and safety in diverse industrial environments.
Key Gorbel Product Offering at ACECO:
Jib and Gantry Cranes: Ideal for heavy-duty applications with varying load capacities.
Workstation Cranes: Used across industries for efficient material handling.
Monorail Systems: Provide a flexible and efficient method for conveying items in assembly-line environments.
Electric Hoists: Reliable lifting solutions that integrate seamlessly with Gorbel cranes.
Duct-O-Wire
Electrical and Control Products for Material Handling
Duct-O-Wire is a premier supplier of electrical and control products, including conductor bar systems, push-button pendants, and festoon systems. Their solutions are designed for safe and cost-effective operations in hoists, stacker-retrieval systems, trolleys, monorails, and cranes.
Key Duct-O-Wire Product Offerings at ACECO:
Conductor Bar Systems: Reliable systems for delivering electric power to moving equipment.
Festoon Systems: Ensure continuous power supply and efficient cable management.
Push Button Pendants: Versatile control solutions for crane operations.
Munck Cranes
Standard and Custom Material Handling Solutions
Munck Cranes Inc. provides both standard and custom-engineered material handling solutions, ensuring safe and efficient operations in challenging environments. ACECO offers a comprehensive range of Munck products, including brakes, wheels, gears, and more.
Key Munck Product Offerings at ACECO:
Brakes and Brake Components: Essential for safe lifting operations.
Crane and Trolley Wheels: Durable wheels designed to withstand great pressure.
Gears and Gear Paraphernalia: High-performing solutions to reduce wear and increase productivity.
Magnetek
Advanced Motor Control and VFD Solutions
Magnetek specialized in crane-specific variable frequency drives (VFDs) and motor control products, providing advanced solutions for precise and efficient crane operations. Their products enhance safety, productivity, and energy efficiency.
Key Magnetek Product Offerings at ACECO:
AC IMPULSE Drives: Improve motor control predictability and extend crane life spans.
Dynamic Braking Resistors: Enhance brake performance and energy efficiency.
At ACECO, our strategic partnerships with these leading vendors allow us to offer a comprehensive range of high-quality material handling solutions. Whether you need durable hoists, advanced motor controls, or reliable crane components, our vendor partnerships ensure that we can meet your unique needs with the best products on the market. Visit our online store to explore our full range of offerings and find the perfect solution for your applications.
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In the demanding world of the chemical and plastics industry, precision and safety are paramount. American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO) offers exceptional expertise and bespoke solutions designed to meet the unique challenges of this sector. Our commitment to reliability, safety, and unmatched service ensures that our clients can focus on their core operations with confidence. Here’s how we support the industry with our specialized products and services.
Wash-Down Service
Cleanliness and maintenance are critical in the chemical and plastics industry, where contamination can lead to costly delays and safety hazards. ACECO’s wash-down service ensures that our equipment can be thoroughly cleaned and maintained. Designed to withstand frequent and rigorous cleaning processes, our cranes and lifting systems maintain optimal performance while preventing contamination. This service is essential for operations that require stringent sanitation standards, ensuring a safe and efficient working environment.
Hazardous Environment Equipment
Safety is at the core of ACECO’s philosophy. Our hazardous environment equipment is meticulously designed to handle dangerous materials and operate safely in the most challenging conditions. In environments with risks of fire, explosion, or exposure to toxic chemicals, our explosion-proof cranes and hoists offer reliable protection and performance. Features such as spark-resistant components, explosion-proof enclosures, and rigorous safety standards ensure that our equipment can handle the hazards posed by specific applications.
Corrosion Resistant Paint Systems
The harsh environments of the chemical and plastics industry can take a toll on equipment, leading to premature wear and failure. To combat this, ACECO offers corrosion-resistant paint systems that provide a robust protective layer against corrosive substances. This enhances the longevity and durability of our equipment, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and replacements. Our corrosion-resistant solutions ensure that our cranes and lifting systems can withstand the test of time, even in the most demanding conditions.
Stainless Components
In environments where equipment is exposed to harsh chemicals and extreme conditions, the use of stainless components is essential. ACECO incorporates high-quality stainless steel components into our equipment to provide superior resistance to corrosion and wear. This not only extends the lifespan of our cranes and lifting systems but also ensures consistent performance and reliability.
Customized Solutions for Your Application
No two operations are the same, and at ACECO, we pride ourselves on our ability to provide customized solutions tailored to the specific needs of our clients. Our engineering team works closely with customers to design unique crane systems and lifting solutions that meet their exact requirements. Whether it’s integrating advanced control systems, automation, or specialized components, we develop tailor-made solutions that optimize performance and efficiency. Our customized approach ensures that our clients receive the most effective and efficient solutions for their specific applications.
Experience the Difference
When you choose ACECO, you’re choosing a partner committed to your success. We understand the unique challenges of the chemical and plastics industry and offer solutions that enhance safety, reliability, and efficiency. Our team of experts is ready to work with you to develop custom-engineered solutions that meet your specific requirements and exceed your expectations.
Experience the difference that ACECO can make for your operations. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services tailored to the chemical and plastics industry. Let us help you achieve new heights of safety, reliability, and efficiency.
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A machinist is a skilled tradesperson who uses tools and machinery to produce or repair mechanical parts. They read and interpret blueprints, schematics and diagrams to produce or repair precision mechanic pieces. Machinists work in industries such as aerospace, automotive and businesses like American Crane & Equipment Corporation. In this blog post, we sit down with Manual Machinist, Jeff Rear, to hear about a day in his life at ACECO.
Start Strong
Jeff wakes up before the birds around 3:55 a.m. He grabs his morning coffee at Wawa on his way to the Douglassville, Pennsylvania plant. He likes to get there early so that he can be in the proper mindset so he can do his best work. The tasks that he performs are mainly performed on a 5-inch spindle mill or a 7-inch horizontal boring mill, which is lovingly referred to as the “Green Monster.”
Work Smart
The hardest and most critical part of his job is the initial set up of his machines. “You have to think… Seriously think things through. Sequencing is key. You can be boring holes within 5000ths of an inch, so you need to know the most efficient way to do the job,” says Jeff. Working with such precise measurements is one of the reasons why he believes taking his time and being in the right mindset is essential for his job.
Problem Solving
This November, he’ll have worked at ACECO for 19 years and as a machinist for over 40 years. Even with over 40 years of experience as a machinist, Jeff encounters new challenges daily and makes the right adjustments to perform the job correctly. Knowledge builds up over the years, but you need to keep trying, learning and making adjustments. “Something may look familiar, but you have to make compromises with things that don’t work,” he says.
Patience & Collaboration
Jeff believes that the qualities a good machinist would include problem solving abilities, patience and collaboration. “Collaboration is key in the life of a machinist. It takes many hands and multiple steps to complete a job, so working together can make everyone’s jobs easier. It’s important to do your assignments properly, that way it makes it easier on the next person down the line in the process. He also says that the right mindset can go a long way. The right mindset is one that values critical thinking.” He tells us.
The Finished Product
Jeff enjoys what he does for a living and has pride in what he does. His favorite part of the job is seeing the finished product. “It involved the whole company to produce something like a 220-ton trolley, but I machined the pads and drilled in the tap holes. It’s kind of crazy to see,” he says.
He gives a lot of credit to his teacher in trade school when he first studied machining. There were no spots in auto mechanics left, so he studied machining, which became his life’s work.
Join us at ACECO to be part of a dynamic team that takes pride in its work. Visit the careers page to see our current openings and reach out to us if you have any questions about a career opportunity with ACECO.