In an age of technology-driven communication and internet-based learning, Hydra-Slide Ltd. Is taking training back to first principles, offering hands-on instruction on every piece of equipment they design and manufacture. At the forefront of Hydra-Slide’s training program are their Low Profile and Heavy Track skidding systems as well as the Canadian manufacturer’s specialized hydraulic power systems.

Hydra-Slide skidding systems have proven to be one of the most cost-effective and safe methods for moving all types of heavy loads. The heartbeat of these skidding systems is the company’s conventional and synchronous hydraulic power units. The Hydra-Pac Synchronous 10,000 psi hydraulic power units provide synchronized control of multiple hydraulic cylinders, suitable for operation of all Hydra-Slide skidding systems, turntables, climbing jacks and most other double-acting jacking applications.

Robert Young,

Advertisement

director of operations and lead trainer at Hydra-Slide, explained that the Hydra-Pac Synchronous power units are often a focal point of training sessions because of their unique operation, which is different than other unified jacking systems. These units, available in diesel, propane or electric models, offer synchronized control of multiple lifting points, so multiple cylinders can be safely extended or retracted completely in unison even under different loading conditions.

He said: “The important point to make to training participants is that they should not try to achieve equal pressures. Each circuit will not necessarily have the same pressure with our systems; an offset center of gravity will result in one side being heavier, thus, will show higher pressures.

Sin Chew Woodpaq Pte Ltd., of Singapore, was a recent recipient of training, having taken delivery of a HT500 heavy track skid system, heavy load turntable and synchronous power unit. Sin Chew Woodpaq’s Hao Teng said: “We have received training on the operation of the power unit, the skidding system and the turntable. Training was informative and very hands-on. We have learned about a few best practices and also pitfalls to look out for.”

Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) is a Texas-based electric utility specializing in electric substations and power transmission lines. Andy Cooper, safety and training manager at LCRA along with his crew recently received training on their new XLP150 extreme low profile skidding system and Hydra-Pac Synchronous power unit. This included jacking and sliding a real transformer to test the entire system. He explained why LCRA chose to invest in training: “If you don’t operate equipment as designed and intended, you can have negative results and potentially get someone hurt. The training ensures all the right steps are taken and understood. I would rate the technical training very highly. The Q&A and step-by-step instruction was perfect. Having a rep onsite during a move (albeit a practice move) was invaluable.”

Hands-on training
Young said: “Sometimes I am on-site for the first project where the new Hydra-Slide systems are being used, and sometimes we do a dry-run in the client’s yard just to get them familiar with the set-up and operation of their equipment. I get people comfortable working with the equipment and from there I follow a procedure that aligns with the flow of our operating manual.”

For Young, hands-on training with the equipment is an ideal scenario, though it isn’t always possible. He explained: “We are developing an online video training program now so that our clients can have remote access to practical, step by step instruction. It’s going to be very valuable for training new personnel or refreshing the crew’s knowledge before a project. Both on-site and video training focus on operation and troubleshooting. We know in the real world things don’t always go perfectly; for example, hydraulic hoses get connected backwards, or skid tracks aren’t set up completely parallel. We want our clients to feel prepared to safely handle these situations.”

Janine Smith, vice president at Hydra-Slide, added: “This was a big year for on-site training; we performed training at facilities in Canada, the USA, Singapore and Qatar. The scope of our training does not cover how to execute the job or comment on the client’s rigging plan, however we find that when the client fully understands how the equipment functions and how it is intended to be setup and operated, they are much more confident and better prepared to safely and successfully complete their tasks.”
Young, who joined Hydra-Slide in 2012 with a background in engineering, said: “Give me a person who has experience of heavy rigging and a grasp of the English language, and even if they may not be familiar with modern jack and slide techniques I would be comfortable in training them. Once fundamentals are established, hands-on training puts the knowledge into real-world perspective.”

Smith concluded: “We encourage all of our customers to read and fully understand the operating manuals that come with the equipment, as well as ask any questions that they have about the intended applications, limitations or use of their Hydra-Slide systems. The goal is that everyone is confident and prepared to operate these systems, and we will provide whatever level of after-sales support is requested.”

-End-

Related Articles
Talbert Manufacturing names Top 10 Dealers of 2017 - February 14, 2018
Volvo Penta names new vp for customer support and training - February 09, 2018
SpotSee hires Joseph Smith as new supply chain director - February 08, 2018
Milwaukee Tool announces expansion of Brookfield, Wis. headquarters - February 08, 2018
CLARK appoints MHE as an authorized dealer - February 08, 2018
DHL Supply Chain recognized as Top Employer in five countries including the United States - February 07, 2018
WIKA Mobile Control presents top sales award to Crane Warning Systems, Inc. - February 07, 2018
CLARK appoints Materials Handling Equipment, LLC. (MHE) as an authorized dealer - February 07, 2018
ALL Crane Rental of Tennessee wins “Supplier of the Year” - January 31, 2018
MCFA announces 2018 Dealers of Excellence - January 30, 2018
Taylor Machine Works joins Pettibone as Cary-Lift dealer - January 29, 2018
Smartrac honored as Company of the Year for RFID technology solutions - January 26, 2018
Purolator International wins Best International Logistics Partner at Newegg’s 2018 Eggie Awards - January 25, 2018
Trojan Battery names new president and CEO - January 24, 2018
President Trump visits UniCarriers Americas Corporation dealer H&K Equipment, Inc. - January 24, 2018
Heli Americas welcomes new national account manager - January 23, 2018
LEEA announces new leadership - January 22, 2018
Three Motion Industries Service Centers become Rexnord Certified - January 16, 2018
Rittal achieves global transparency with JAGGAER’s digital procurement solutions - January 16, 2018
Twinlode welcomes new director of engineering - January 16, 2018
The Manitowoc Company to relocate corporate headquarters to Northwest Milwaukee - January 15, 2018
Grainger named a 2018 Best Company to Work for Millennials by The Women's Choice Award - January 11, 2018
Momentum/ Warehouse Management and Inventory Control Academy holds graduation - January 10, 2018
Universal Lighting Technologies adds regional sales manager - January 10, 2018
Chicago-area warehouse leader receives professional designation - January 10, 2018
SP appoints new marketing executive - January 10, 2018
Meijer Handling Solutions expands - January 10, 2018
Caterpillar officially opens HQ in Chicago Suburb - January 10, 2018
CLARK vp of sales and marketing elected as chairman of the board of directors for ITA - January 05, 2018
H&E Equipment Services completes acquisition of CEC - January 05, 2018
Encompass expands West Coast service with new Las Vegas distribution center - December 21, 2017
ALL takes delivery of new Liebherr all-terrain cranes - December 19, 2017
Habasit announces new distribution hub in Fresno, Calif. - December 19, 2017
Dematic announces opening of new monitoring and response center - December 19, 2017
SpotSee names new Central and South America general manager - December 18, 2017
MHEDA names 2018 MVS award winners - December 18, 2017
Cimcorp promotes Bradyn Kelly to customer support manager - December 18, 2017
Kinedyne LLC certified by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council - December 18, 2017
Hy-Tek Material Handling appoints integrated systems division manager - December 18, 2017
Dick Giromini, Wabash National CEO, to step down in June - December 18, 2017
Raymond gives back by supporting nonprofit and educations organizations - December 18, 2017
Wabash National Corporation announces group president for Final Mile Products - December 15, 2017
TVH employees support breast cancer awareness with fundraiser events  - December 13, 2017
Kardex Remstar assumes Alternative Handling Technologies sales territory - December 13, 2017
SP names Scotland-based technical sales engineer - December 06, 2017
TMHNA university research program funds three projects - December 06, 2017
eTrack Tech named finalist at TechCrunch Disrupt Berlin - December 06, 2017
H&E relocates to new facility in Sacramento, CA - December 06, 2017
Raymond Handling values trust at 24K gold - December 06, 2017
MHEDA names 2018 Most Valuable Partner Awards - December 05, 2017
Universal Lighting Technologies hires U.S. Western OEM regional sales manager - December 04, 2017
Crown Equipment helps Northgate Markets achieve lowest injury rate in 11 years - December 04, 2017
Grainger celebrates grand opening of its northeast distribution center in New Jersey - December 04, 2017
Chamberlain Group acquires Systems, Inc. - December 04, 2017
Governor Abbott joins Kubota to announce hurricane relief donation - November 29, 2017
Myers Industries names new group president, distribution - November 29, 2017
Motion Canada's TechCan Services earns two SKF certifications - November 29, 2017
RMI earns gold and silver competencies - November 27, 2017
KION Group CFO Thomas Toepfer to join Covestro as of April 1, 2018 - November 27, 2017
Raymond Handling hosts operation Santa supply chain food and toy drive - November 21, 2017
TVH employees participate in blood drive - November 17, 2017
Hy-Tek Material Handling appoints integrated systems director - November 17, 2017
UNEX President named to board of directors for MHEFI - November 14, 2017
GRI presented Presidential Award for sustainability - November 14, 2017
H&E opens new branch in Lynnwood, WA area - November 14, 2017
AMS-Merlo continues sales team growth - November 13, 2017
MH Equipment welcomes Isaac Yates - November 13, 2017
Storopack honored as a member of the 2017 Deloitte Cincinnati USA 100 - November 07, 2017
SpotSee appoints new marketing director - November 07, 2017
KION North America hosts dealer meeting, introduces three new products - November 06, 2017
Jungheinrich® Driving Innovation Roadshow is ready to showcase the big deal on 3-wheels - November 06, 2017
BEUMER Group announces new director of customer support - November 03, 2017
Raymond Handling raises $17,328 with Pink Pallet Jack Auction - November 03, 2017
PECO Pallet depot re-certified by Safe Quality Food Institute - October 30, 2017
CLARK appoints Deval Chariots ÉlÉvateurs as an authorized dealer in Montreal, Canada - October 30, 2017
Butler Automatic announces expanded sales team - October 25, 2017
Dana Rafferty named Akro-Mils executive director of sales and marketing - October 24, 2017
Multi-Conveyor receives fourth ACUITY safety achievement award - October 24, 2017
Integro Technologies now a SICK, Inc. authorized vision integrator - October 23, 2017
Kubota  announces plans for $87 million expansion in Kansas - October 23, 2017
Wronzberg appoint president and CEO of Econo-Rack Group Inc. - October 23, 2017
Barcoding names Mirabito 2017 Innovator of the Year - October 19, 2017
Raymond Handling celebrates 30 years with annual Pink Pallet Jack Project - October 16, 2017
Motion Industries names new vp/general manager - Dallas division - October 16, 2017
Cambridge Security Seals secures another patent for innovative manufacturing technique - October 16, 2017
Universal Lighting Technologies welcomes new agency partner in Ohio - October 16, 2017
Associated recognized as one of Chicago’s largest privately held companies - October 16, 2017
Toyota Forklifts join to support its own in wake of hurricane - October 16, 2017
Crown Equipment facility earns recognition from Ohio EPA - October 11, 2017
WIX® Filters announces top four finalists for 2017 School of the Year competition - October 10, 2017
OnSSI promotes David Barber to national account manager - October 10, 2017
CHEP honored with the IGD John Sainsbury learning and development award - October 09, 2017
Raymond celebrates Manufacturing Day with more than 250 students - October 09, 2017
Durante Rentals opens new location in Brooklyn, NY - October 06, 2017
Passing the baton at STILL - October 06, 2017
PMMI raises $325,000 to aid hurricane afflicted areas - October 06, 2017
International partners visited AKL-tec Pallet Dimensioning Days - October 04, 2017
The NAW Institute for Distribution Excellence elects three new directors - October 04, 2017
Toyota announces promotions within national management teams - October 02, 2017
Women In Trucking Association announces October 2017 Member of the Month - October 02, 2017
Wabash National Corporation announces new group presidents - September 29, 2017
Crown Equipment extends collaboration with New Castle Career Center - September 29, 2017
Beumer Group announces $5,000 donation to Hurricane Harvey relief fund - September 29, 2017
Brambles named Industry Category Leader in 2017 Dow Jones Sustainability World Index - September 27, 2017
Dematic brings fleet management to enterprise asset management - September 26, 2017
PACK EXPO scholarships awards $30,000 to support future workforce  - September 26, 2017
PMMI announces commission to select 2018 Hall of Fame inductees - September 25, 2017
Kaman Industrial Technologies named a Berry Plastics Corporation Supplier of the Year - September 25, 2017
TVH is Platinum Level Certified - September 25, 2017
Toyota named #1 forklift brand for 15th straight year - September 21, 2017
CLARK receives MHEDA 2018 Most Valuable Supplier Award - September 21, 2017
PMMI Members’ and PACK EXPO exhibitors’ donations support needs of hurricane victims - September 20, 2017
Scott Carey recognized for rail industry risk management practices - September 18, 2017
Crown Equipment increases presence in Asia - September 14, 2017
Toyota Forklifts celebrates 50th anniversary in the United States - September 13, 2017
Maersk joins BoxTech container database  - September 13, 2017
JW Winco introduces new logo and enhanced website - September 12, 2017
Hess Auctioneers, LLC celebrates 10th anniversary - September 12, 2017
IBTTA announces new 2018 second vice president - September 12, 2017
Volvo CE appoints Alta Equipment Company® as new Illinois dealer - September 08, 2017
STIHL INC. and Goodwill Industries receive Reusable Packaging Award - September 08, 2017
FlexQube and Multitube launch partnership in Netherlands and Belgium - September 06, 2017
Adrian’s Safety Solutions announces Awards of Excellence for Safety - September 06, 2017
WIT announces its September Member of the Month - September 05, 2017
Ametek Prestolite Power promotes Jeff Harrison to business manager - August 30, 2017
Rockford Systems and The Master Lock Company form strategic partnership - August 30, 2017
Pettibone announces Highlift Equipment as new Ohio dealer - August 30, 2017
Toyota announces promotions within national management teams - August 29, 2017
Crown Equipment recognizes dealers in Latin America and Caribbean - August 29, 2017
WPRP announces new director of inside sales - August 25, 2017
Handling Specialty provides stage for eclipse performance - August 24, 2017
U.S. Senator visits Unicarriers Americas to highlight job growth and impact on commerce - August 22, 2017
Yale earns spot on Green Supply Chain Partner list for seventh consecutive year - August 22, 2017
TVH hosts summer event for Boys & Girls Club - August 22, 2017
Johnson Controls announces accelerated leadership succession - August 21, 2017
Applied Machinery Sales growth spurs team expansion - August 21, 2017
Universal adds new Southeast regional sales manager - August 21, 2017
Dorner awards 2017 Richard C. Ryan Packaging Education Scholarship - August 17, 2017
Decisiv joins the Inc. 5000 - August 17, 2017
Unicarriers president discusses essential role of forklifts on commerce with Illinois legislators - August 16, 2017
Combi official provider of replacement parts for 3M™ packaging equipment - August 15, 2017
H&E relocates to new facility in Tampa, FL - August 14, 2017
Dorner appoints new regional sales manager for Texas and Louisiana - August 14, 2017
Clark appoints Electro Mechanical Services, Ltd. as an authorize dealer - August 09, 2017
Decisiv honored by Best in Biz Awards 2017 International - August 08, 2017
The Manitowoc Company announces new executive vp of cranes - August 08, 2017
Raymond Handling Concepts receives patriotic employer award - August 07, 2017
Advance Storage Products welcomes new national accounts manager - August 04, 2017
OnSSI appoints Steve Lenox as mid-atlantic regional manager - July 26, 2017
Women In Trucking Association to give away a truck thanks to Arrow Truck Sales - July 26, 2017
ALL Family of Companies named authorized dealer for Kobelco Cranes - July 21, 2017
Holland named 2017 True Value LTL Carrier of the Year - July 21, 2017
Crown Equipment opens new Canadian sales and service center - July 18, 2017
Raymond Handling Concepts celebrates 30 years - July 11, 2017
Wolter Group  expands its rail car mover business - July 11, 2017
MCFA celebrates 25 years - July 11, 2017
TVH promotes Antonio Velez to general manager for TVH Mexico - July 07, 2017
WIT announces July Member of the Month - July 06, 2017
PMMI announces new senior director of expositions - July 06, 2017
RMI Corporation celebrates 34 years in business - July 06, 2017
Toyota-Lift of Los Angeles rewards academic excellence - July 06, 2017
ECCO Safety Group announces new European managing director - July 06, 2017
TVH promotes Jeremy McEver to International Sales Manager - July 06, 2017
MAUSER Poland celebrates 5th anniversary - July 06, 2017
KION North America celebrates start of production on new forklifts - July 06, 2017
Dawes Crane moves memorial phantom F-4 jet fighter - July 06, 2017
Heli Americas hires new Southeast Regional Marketing Manager - June 30, 2017
CAT announces VP retirement and new VP appointment - June 29, 2017
Crown honors top-performing North American branches and dealers - June 22, 2017
Annual WIT Foundation first pitch opportunity - June 21, 2017
Dematic appoints new managing director – Central Europe - June 21, 2017
PACK EXPO scholarship showcases PMMI's commitment to the future  - June 21, 2017
Smart Vision lights expands US operations with appointment of Paul Powers - June 21, 2017
H&E Beaumont, TX hosting grand opening July 20, 2017 - June 20, 2017
Wabash National Corporation announces leadership change - June 19, 2017
Caterpillar announces retirements, appointments and organizational changes - June 19, 2017
Briggs & Stratton builds on decades-long commitment to Baja Sae - June 19, 2017
Toyota announces organizational changes - June 19, 2017
CLARK hosts global centennial celebration week  - June 15, 2017
Yale celebrates National Forklift Safety Day with safety resources, training  - June 13, 2017
Trelleborg supports National Forklift Safety Day 2017 - June 12, 2017
Unicarriers Americas recognizes top suppliers at 2017 Supplier Conference - June 12, 2017
Toyota Forklifts celebrates National Forklift Safety Day with free forklift safety consultations - June 12, 2017
CLARK appoints new authorized dealer in Central Kentucky - June 09, 2017
Crown Equipment challenges individuals to embrace forklift safety - June 09, 2017
Raymond unveils new  RayBuilt® Center of Excellence - June 09, 2017
Founder and former CEO of Fieldglass joins FourKites' board of directors - June 07, 2017
OnSSI appoints B&T Sales as manufacturer’s rep for the Rocky Mountain Region - June 07, 2017
TMHNA now accepting TMHNA university research program applications - June 07, 2017
Martins Industries open a distribution center and sales office in Europe - June 07, 2017
Hawk Measurement announces a new sales director - June 05, 2017
Women In Trucking Association announces June Member of the Month - June 02, 2017
H&E opens new branch in Fort Collins, CO area - May 30, 2017
Skyjack builds a stronger North America sales team for 2017 - May 30, 2017
TVH recycles more than 350 tons of materials - May 26, 2017
Women In Trucking Association CEO named One of the “30 Most Inspirational Leaders in Business” - May 24, 2017
Barcoding expands consumables services, supply chain experts  - May 23, 2017
Fairchild Equipment collects record amount in donation drive - May 23, 2017
Hyster to electrify big trucks - May 22, 2017
TVH is a healthiest employer in Florida and Ohio - May 22, 2017
Multi-Conveyor receives fourth ACUITY Safety Achievement Award - May 22, 2017
Colorado warehouse exec joins IWLA board of directors - May 22, 2017
Crown Equipment dealer opens new facility in Washington - May 17, 2017
Universal Lighting Technologies a new regional sales manager - May 15, 2017
TVH Canada is a National Service Dog sponsor - May 11, 2017
Caito Foods receives first place manufacturing innovation award - May 10, 2017
Swift Industrial Power announces new team member - May 08, 2017
Magline honored as Gold Stevie Award Winner in 2017 American Business Awards - May 05, 2017
CLARK appoints Miner Material Handling as authorized dealer - May 05, 2017
Yale honors outstanding performers with 2016 Dealer of Excellence award  - May 04, 2017
Raymond donates forklifts to support needs of American Red Cross - May 03, 2017
Toyota recognizes Union Pacific for excellence - May 02, 2017
CLARK supports centennial year Habitat for Humanity home - May 02, 2017
Straightpoint names new product sales engineer - April 26, 2017
OnSSI appoints new south central regional manager - April 26, 2017
Raymond's Amber Pratt-Lum honored in 5th annual Step Ahead Awards - April 25, 2017
Swift Industrial Power announces new Jacksonville territory manager - April 24, 2017
Camso Manufacturing plans expansion - April 21, 2017
Toyota plans facility expansion at Columbus Campus to improve logistics - April 20, 2017
Yale recognized for innovative power solutions with SDCE Green Supply Chain Award - April 20, 2017
KION and Illinois Material Handling host product showcase and test drive experience - April 20, 2017
KION North America Corporation honors top dealers - April 20, 2017
Nercon expands sales team - April 20, 2017