WebWire | News by Industry : Architecture / Construction / Building http://www.webwire.com/ Architecture / Construction / Building News by WebWire en Copyright © 2012 WebWire. All Rights Reserved. Sat, 4 Feb 2012 01:32:27 EST WebWire | News by Industry : Architecture / Construction / Building 140 32 http://www.webwire.com/ http://www.webwire.com/imgs/webwire_logo_140x32.gif Oregon Prepares for Possible Radioactive Tsunami Debris http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=152343 Fri, 3 Feb 2012 14:27:37 EST EMSL Analytical offers testing services to analyze radioactive samples following the nuclear disaster in Japan.
 
Cinnaminson, NJ, February 3rd, 2012
 
This month, the Yamhill Valley News-Register published a story about how various Oregon agencies and groups are preparing for potentially radioactive debris to reach the coast.  Recently, they held a conference call to review Oregon's planned response as the one year anniversary of the Japanese earthquake and resulting tsunami approaches in early March.
 
Although most experts do not expect the debris to carry much radioactive material, area residents are still concerned.  The bulk of the debris is expected to begin arriving later in the year or into the beginning of next year.
 
Materials that may be contaminated with cesium are one significant concern.  According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 'The most common radioactive form of cesium is cesium-137. Another fairly common radioisotope is cesium-134. Cesium-137 is much more significant as an environmental contaminant than cesium-134.'
 
Nuclear reactor waste and accidental releases such as at the Chernobyl and Fukushima nuclear plant accidents did release some cesium into the environment.  The half-life of cesium-137 is 30.17 years. Because of the chemical nature of cesium, it moves easily through the environment which makes the cleanup of cesium-137 difficult.
 
Responding to concerns about radioactive debris reaching the shores of Oregon and surrounding states, EMSL Analytical has expanded their radiological sampling capacity.  The environmental laboratory has already witnessed an increase in the number of requests to perform Gamma Spectroscopy analyses. 
 
'The ability to measure Gamma isotopes that may have been released from the Japanese nuclear power plant allows EMSL to measure for things such as Cesium-134, Cesium-137, Iodine-131 and other radioactive elements,' reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical.  'Samples have already been processed to test food products, soils, vegetation and water matrices with some samples being able to be processed in as short as one day.'
 
To learn more about testing for radiological samples, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800)220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com.
 
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public.  The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies. 

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Education Environment Higher Education Maritime / Marine WebWireID152343 Article China is now the world's largest importer of softwood lumber and logs despite a slowdown in imports during the 4Q/11 http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=152338 Fri, 3 Feb 2012 11:53:34 EST Seattle, USA. Importation of softwood logs and lumber to China has increased continuously over the past 15 years, and in 2011 the country was the largest importer of softwood lumber and logs in the world, according to the Wood Resource Quarterly. Total import value equaled almost eight billion US dollars last year, which was an increase of 57 percent from 2010, and up from only 70 million dollars 15 years ago. Annual growth over the past five years has been almost 30 percent, and over the past 15 years, the CAGR has been as high as 36 percent.   
 
Imports of softwood lumber have increased faster than imports of softwood logs over the past few years, but log imports still constitute a higher share of the total import value of softwood products. After having increased for seven consecutive quarters, the importation of softwood logs and lumber fell for the first time in the 4Q/11 because of reduced domestic demand and high inventories at many of the country's ports. The decline was 14 percent from the 3Q/11, but the total import value was still higher than the fourth quarter in 2010.  
 
By volume, importation of softwood log and softwood lumber to China fell 10 percent in the 4Q/11 as compared to the previous quarter. Importation of logs and lumber from Russia decreased the most, while lumber from New Zealand and logs from Canada actually increased slightly during the fourth quarter. 
 
Much of the increased import demand for softwood raw-material has been, and continues to be, driven by the fast expansion in the house construction sector combined with the fact the China lacks domestic forest resources to meet the growing demand for most forest products.   
 
A tightening monetary policy with a restricted money supply resulted in reduced activities in the construction sector in the second half of 2011. It has also been reported that there were overstocked inventories of real estate (over 20 months of unsold inventory in Beijing and Shanghai), and that housing transaction volumes in many big cities fell by more than 50 percent in the fourth quarter. Societe Generale reported that housing starts were down 25 percent in December as compared to the same month in 2010.
 
It can be expected that the housing market will continue to face headwinds during the first half of 2012 unless the Chinese government steps in to ease the country's monetary policy. As a consequence, the prospects for log and lumber imports will be faced with uncertainty short-term, but will likely continue to trend upward long-term.    
 
Global timber market reporting is included in the 52-page quarterly publication Wood Resource Quarterly. The report, established in 1988 and with subscribers in over 25 countries, tracks sawlog, pulpwood, lumber and pellet prices and market developments in most key regions around the world. To subscribe to the WRQ, please go to www.woodprices.com

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Environment Financial Markets Paper / Forest Products / Containers WebWireID152338 Article Hollywood Painting Exceeds Expectations With Superior Service, Free TV Offer http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=152260 Wed, 1 Feb 2012 18:07:52 EST Hollywood Painting, a leading Toronto painting firm offering residential and commercial service, has announced it will be supplementing its high-quality painting service with an unprecedented free TV offer. Hollywood Painting is giving away a free 19-inch LCD HDTV for every sale of more than $3,000. The vibrant, high-quality television is a perfect touch to complete the transformative work these Toronto painters provide.

Despite the name, Hollywood Painting does more than just painting; the company is also a premier deck building Toronto firm. No project is too big or complex for Hollywood Painting, and the company will also provide a finish for the deck Toronto weather can't damage. With a variety of staining and painting options for newly built or already existing decks, Hollywood Painting can make any home ideal for outdoor entertaining.

In addition, Hollywood Painting provides deck repair service, power washing and sanding, with guaranteed results in just hours. The company uses only top-quality equipment and supplies such as Sansin Inviro Stain, which never peels or cracks, providing a lasting finish with the first application.

And to show its appreciation for the Toronto community, Hollywood Painting will provide a free 19-inch 720P HDTV with every $3,000 order, while supplies last. Simply mention the offer while placing your painting order.

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Commercial Services Household / Consumer / Cosmetics Personal Services Textiles WebWireID152260 Article GE Oil & Gas Wins Over $1 Billion in Contracts for Ichthys LNG Project in Australia - http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=152130 Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:20:32 EST - Deal Covers Both Rotating Equipment, Subsea Production Systems and Connectors
- Project Includes One of World's Largest LNG Facilities
- Demonstrates GE Commitment to Growing LNG Sector in Australia

FLORENCE, ITALY - GE Oil & Gas (NYSE: GE) has received contracts totaling more than $1 billion to supply a wide range of equipment and services for the Ichthys liquefied natural gas (LNG) project in Australia. A joint venture between INPEX (operator) and Total, the Ichthys LNG project includes one of the world's largest LNG facilities and is based on an estimated 40 years of gas and condensate reserves from the Browse Basin offshore Western Australia.

The Ichthys LNG Project is a joint venture between INPEX (76 percent, the operator) and Total (24 percent). Gas from the Ichthys Field, in the Browse Basin approximately 200 km offshore of Western Australia, will undergo preliminary processing offshore to remove water and extract condensate. The gas will then be exported to onshore processing facilities in Darwin via an 889-km subsea pipeline. The Ichthys LNG Project is expected to produce 8.4 million tons of LNG and 1.6 million tons of LPG per annum, along with approximately 100,000 barrels of condensate per day at peak.

GE will provide rotating equipment, including gas turbines and compressors, for a new Ichthys LNG plant at Blaydin Point, near Darwin in Australia's Northern Territory, and associated floating production storage and offloading and a central processing facility (CPF) located in the Browse Basin offshore Western Australia. In addition, GE will supply subsea production systems for the offshore portion of the project as well as subsea connectors for an 889-kilometer (km) pipeline that will carry the gas produced from a CPF to the new LNG plant in Darwin. GE announced the award of the contract at the 2012 GE Oil & Gas Annual Meeting being held Jan. 30-31 in Florence, Italy.

The scope of GE's supply includes four Frame 7EA Gas Turbines and eight MR/PR Compressors for the LNG plant; 10 PGT25+G4 gas turbines and 10 compressors for upstream facilities; and 22 subsea production trees, five off-subsea manifolds, an integrated subsea control system and a 42-inch trunk line connection system. The equipment will be shipped by 2014 and INPEX expects to start producing LNG by the end of 2016.

'We have been able to confirm our strong heritage in the LNG sector, leveraging our gas turbine, compressor and subsea production technologies for many of the world's leading LNG projects, including the Ichthys subsea development,' said Dan Heintzelman, CEO of GE Oil & Gas. 'Our growing commitment to the LNG industry in Australia was another key factor in winning this significant award.'

Among GE's recent investments in Australia is the recently opened Jandakot facility in Perth, a $100 million state-of-the-art technology and learning center that will support the training of the next generation of skilled workers in the oil and gas, energy, mining, transportation and water industries. In addition, GE Oil & Gas has established a strong position in Australia's LNG sector, providing equipment for most of the country's LNG projects including Gorgon, Wheatstone, Prelude FLNG and Queensland CSM LNG projects. According to the Australian government's Department of Resources, Energy & Tourism, the Australian LNG industry has the potential to attract up to A$60 billion in new project investment over the next 10 years.

About GE

GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.

GE also serves the energy sector by providing technology and service solutions that are based on a commitment to quality and innovation. The company continues to invest in new technology solutions and grow through strategic acquisitions to strengthen its local presence and better serve customers around the world. The businesses that comprise GE Energy—GE Power & Water, GE Energy Management and GE Oil & Gas—work together with more than 100,000 global employees and 2010 revenues of $38 billion, to provide integrated product and service solutions in all areas of the energy industry including coal, oil, natural gas and nuclear energy; renewable resources such as water, wind, solar and biogas; as well as other alternative fuels and new grid modernization technologies to meet 21st century energy needs.

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Business Announcements Machinery Mining / Metals Oil / Energy WebWireID152130 Article Is Your Furniture Emitting Formaldehyde? http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151936 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:08:40 EST Did you know that furniture and building materials may release noxious gas into air? The process, known as off-gassing, can pose a serious threat to a family's health as they breathe in volatile chemicals.
 
Major sources of one such chemical, formaldehyde, are pressed wood products manufactured with adhesive resins, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The resins contain formaldehyde, which is then emitted into the air and can cause watery eyes, irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat, wheezing, nausea, fatigue, skin rash, difficulty breathing, and severe allergic reactions. Concentrations higher than 10 parts per billion (ppb) may cause adverse health effects in some individuals. Formaldehyde is also known to cause cancer in animals and may be carcinogenic in humans as well.
 
Pressed wood products made with the toxic resins often include wall paneling, particleboard, fiberboard, and furniture. Other sources of formaldehyde that could affect indoor air quality are urea-formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI), tobacco smoke, combustion sources, durable press drapes, other textiles, and glues, notes the EPA.
 
'EMSL Analytical is one of the country's foremost indoor air quality testing laboratories and offers a great deal of expertise in testing for formaldehyde off-gassing,' states Scott Van Etten, CIH, National Director of Industrial Hygiene at EMSL. 'Moreover, we have a network of over 30 laboratories from coast to coast to serve our clients locally.'
 
For more information on EMSL's testing services, please contact EMSL at (800) 220-3675, visit www.EMSL.com, or email info@EMSL.com.
 
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical, Inc. is a full service testing company providing quality lab services under the same private ownership since 1981. Including the corporate lab facility in Cinnaminson, NJ, EMSL Analytical operates over thirty laboratories nationwide in the US and Canada. We provide analytical services for environmental, indoor air quality (IAQ), industrial hygiene, forensics and materials science, consumer products, food safety, PCR, pharmaceutical, asbestos, lead, and radiological samples. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations, as well as state and federal regulating bodies. Please see our website for a complete listing of accreditations.
 

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Environment Household / Consumer / Cosmetics Office Products Paper / Forest Products / Containers WebWireID151936 Article Fix the Home Offers Free Estimates from Home Improvement Contractors http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151767 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST BALTIMORE, MD, January 24, 2012 – Fix the Home, an online resource that focuses on assisting homeowners in finding local home improvement contractors, is offering up to four free estimates from licensed contractors on various home remodeling projects.

Fix the Home has greatly simplified the estimate process. The site allows homeowners to fill out a short form in less than five minutes that addresses their specific remodeling project. Shortly after the form is submitted, up to four contractors will respond to discuss the project details and provide a free quote.

Fix the Home also makes it possible for homeowners to hand select the companies they want to speak or work with. The local contractor directory lists home improvement contractors from across the country, with various areas of specialty.

'Home improvement and remodeling projects can be overwhelming for the average homeowner. Our top priority with Fix the Home is to offer guidance and assistance to make the process as easy as possible,' said Ryan Corey, a founding partner of Fix the Home.

About Fix the Home

Fix the Home, a Lead Storm Media property, focuses on being a reliable resource to aid homeowners in finding professional contractors for their home improvement and remodeling projects. Homeowners can request free quotes from local contractors for their home improvement projects, as well as get ideas and tips on home remodeling projects before they begin. Visit http://www.fixthehome.com for more information.

Sponsored by Spartan Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Business Announcements Personal Services WebWireID151767 Article Glickman Design Build Annouces Upcoming Launch of New Website http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151889 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 18:57:41 EST Glickman Design Build, an award-winning designer and builder that specializes in wheelchair accessible remodeling, recently announced the upcoming launch of a more intuitive revision of their website, www.glickmandesignbuild.com. The new content-rich website features an increased emphasis on handicapped accessible home design that enhances the quality of life for those with physical disabilities. 

'We are pleased to introduce a new website on February 1st that truly reflects my passion for creating unique indoor and outdoor living spaces for those with physical disabilities,' stated Russ Glickman, owner of Glickman Design Build. 'We are committed to improving the lives of handicapped children and adults by designing and building beautiful wheelchair accessible homes.' 

From wheelchair accessible remodeling projects to bathroom and kitchen renovations maryland home builder, Russ Glickman is a leading expert in redesigning any area of a home to meet the specific needs of those with physical disabilities. Glickman specializes in building wheelchair lifts, elevators, handicapped accessible hallways, bathrooms, kitchens and additions for clients in the Washington, DC metro area.

For more information about handicapped accessible remodeling, decks maryland, decks dc and other home building and design services that Glickman Design Build has to offer or to schedule a complementary 'Optimal Home' strategy session, please visit www.glickmandesignbuild.com or call 301-444-4663.

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Household / Consumer / Cosmetics Personal Services WebWireID151889 Article Rental Market for St. Louis Apartments to Shrink in 2012 http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151820 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:19:51 EST The 2012 St. Louis apartment rental market is quickly gaining steam, bringing an end to a decade-long down cycle. The main factors driving this trend are historically low vacancy rates and current renters who choose to extend their leases instead of moving. The result is in a very tight supply of St. Louis apartments on the market to choose from. Consequently, prospective renters must act quickly to get the best apartment at the best price.
 
'After ten years of a renter's market, prospective tenants should to be prepared to secure an apartment as quickly as possible. If they wait too long, the apartment could be gone and there is also a chance the rent will be higher,' says Steve Barron, President of Philip H. Barron Realty.
 
The improved rental market is a direct result of the housing crisis. Even though homes prices and interest rates appear very attractive, the barriers to enter the market remain high. The inability to secure favorable financing, along with the high costs of home ownership, are driving renters to apartments faster than ever. Renting will allow you to live with relatively fixed expenses, allowing the flexibility to move when the housing market improves, or when a job change requires it.
 
 'Unless you can see the value of your home increasing in the next 3- 5 years, it does not make sense to own. Renters who are just starting out should seek a flexible and affordable living situation. It's a great time to save some money on St. Louis apartments,' says Barron.
 
About Barron Realty

Philip H. Barron Realty is a family-owned real estate investment firm that has been providing  desirable apartments to the St. Louis area since 1965. Their properties are located in the Central Corridor including: Clayton; University City; Brentwood; the Central West End and the City of St. Louis.

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Business Announcements Financial Markets Lifestyle / Society Real Estate WebWireID151820 Article UVDI Celebrates 20 Years of Service and Innovation http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151866 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 10:08:42 EST UVDI is one of the oldest and most respected ultraviolet germicidal disinfection (UVGI) companies in the industry. The company has an impressive pedigree and it all began with the hard work and ingenuity of one man.
 
Three generations ago, Louis Veloz was an engineer for Westinghouse when its R&D engineers developed and patented the first commercial ultraviolet lamps. Mr. Veloz was intrigued by this new technology and in 1949 purchased a Westinghouse UV lamp dealership. Forty-three years later, UltraViolet Devices, Inc. was founded by Tom Veloz, the son of Louis.  At the time, Tom was the successful owner and CEO of Aquafine, a commercial water UV manufacturing company.
 
'UVDI was founded by my father in 1992 with a vision to become a world class designer and manufacturer of ultraviolet products,' commented Peter Veloz, CEO and Chairman of UVDI and third generation co-owner along with his brother David.  'Pursuing that vision for over twenty years my father Tom, and now my brother David and I, have guided UVDI's growth into an international supplier of UVGI technology and products and have also diversified the business into activated carbon filtration.  Today, UVDI provides sustainable, green, energy savings and healthy solutions in many applications that benefit millions of people around the globe,' he continued. 
 
UVDI's 20 years of success is built upon the commitment of employees, partnership of customers and the dedication of stakeholders.  The company looks forward to future milestones as UVDI continues to prosper and grow.
 
To learn more about UltraViolet Devices please visit www.UVDI.com, email info@UVDI.com or call (877) 787-3882.
 
About UltraViolet Devices, Inc.
UVDI is a leading manufacturer and supplier of UV-C products for air, surface and water disinfection. Under the ALTRU-V® brand, UVDI markets a full line of products for the HVACR market designed to reduce energy consumption and lower maintenance costs while delivering cleaner, healthier air.  Under UVDI's Sparks Technology™ brand, the company markets gas phase filtration products for use in commercial and industrial applications worldwide.

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Business Announcements Environment Health Care / Hospitals Infectious Disease Control WebWireID151866 Article ASSA ABLOY acquires Dynaco http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151864 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:53:55 EST ASSA ABLOY has signed an agreement to acquire Dynaco in Belgium. Dynaco is a leading producer of high-speed doors specialized in sales to a global network of distributors.

"Dynaco is another strategic step and a perfect fit to our expansion into Entrance Automation. I welcome this new addition that further reinforces the ASSA ABLOY Group's leadership in high speed doors. Dynaco adds, besides a well known and respected brand, very innovative products and global distribution" says Johan Molin, President and CEO of ASSA ABLOY.

"With the addition of Dynaco, we further enhance our position in high-speed doors, a fast-growing segment of the market. The Dynaco team brings expertise in manufacturing with many leading patented products and with a global distribution channel. I welcome Dynaco to the division as a very attractive strategic addition to our competencies" says Juan Vargues, Executive Vice President of ASSA ABLOY and Head of Division Entrance Systems.

Dynaco has 140 employees with the main facility in Moorsel, Belgium. Sales is expected to reach EUR 51 M in 2012 and the acquisition will be accretive to EPS from start.

The deal is expected to close during the first half of 2012 after relevant regulatory approvals.

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Business Announcements Financial Markets WebWireID151864 Article Trimble and Manitowoc Cranes Enter into a Development Agreement to Enhance Crane Productivity, Positioning and Detection on the Connected Construction Site http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151857 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:18:54 EST SUNNYVALE, Calif. and MANITOWOC, Wis. - Trimble (NASDAQ:TRMB) and Manitowoc Cranes, a part of The Manitowoc Company, Inc. (NYSE: MTW), announced today that they have signed an agreement to collaborate on the development of solutions that can harness precise positioning technology, wireless communications and comprehensive software capabilities to enhance productivity in the construction lifting industry. Trimble and Manitowoc intend to develop solutions that will transform the way in which crane operations and information are managed on a construction site.

By combining the strengths of Trimble and Manitowoc Cranes, the companies intend to develop a solution tailored for the lifting industry that provides real time, centimeter-level positioning data for multiple cranes working on a construction site. The solution would be able to measure crane position in absolute coordinates using rugged, easy to install, non-contact sensors that can be installed on both fixed and mobile cranes. It is planned that the in-cab displays of cranes that are fitted with the developed solution will permit operators to view the site, multiple working crane zones, forbidden zones, target locations and other site information. The companies also expect to develop an "Intelligent Environment" database for their solutions capable of receiving constant updates of data from Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools and other site sensors working in tandem. In addition, an anticipated feature of the solution would enable a user to program an alarm or even halt crane operation upon detection of unplanned work activity on the construction site.

To enhance jobsite awareness and management, a wireless local area network (WLAN) will share the crane position information across the construction site, providing each crane operator, the lift scheduler, and even the back office (if the Internet connectivity option is enabled) instant status against the BIM plan, enabling informed, exception-based decisions to be made in real time. This information will be able to be viewed in 3D and can run either as a fat or thin client accessing software tools and capabilities that are expected to be available as part of the Trimble® Connected Community solution. The Connected Community is a Web-based set of networking tools that allow contractors to build information portals, share information and collaborate between head office management, site office teams, field crews, subcontractors, suppliers, engineers and clients on a project. By connecting the field and office, the planned solution should permit contractors to gain significant efficiencies and improve overall jobsite productivity.

"Manitowoc is committed to providing the most advanced and comprehensive range of lifting solutions," said Bob Hund, executive vice president, Crane Care for Manitowoc Cranes. "Working together with Trimble allows us to access market leading technology to collaborate to develop innovative tools to increase crane operator awareness on a construction site."

"Trimble is already using much the same technology to deliver significant productivity improvements to the construction machine control market," said John Cameron, general manager of Trimble's Integrated Technologies Division. "By partnering with the Manitowoc Cranes, a lifting industry leader, we expect to co-develop solutions capable of lifting and delivering materials on the construction site similar to a contract manufacturer who uses a pick-and-place machine to build an electronic circuit board. Our goal is add crane productivity as another key component of the connected site."

About The Manitowoc Company, Inc.

The Manitowoc Company, Inc. is a multi-industry, capital goods manufacturer with nearly 100 manufacturing, distribution, service, and/or office facilities in 26 countries. It is recognized as one of the world's largest providers of lifting equipment for the global construction industry, including lattice-boom cranes, tower cranes, mobile telescopic cranes, and boom trucks. Manitowoc also is one of the world's leading innovators and manufacturers of commercial foodservice equipment serving the ice, beverage, refrigeration, food prep, and cooking needs of restaurants, convenience stores, hotels, healthcare, and institutional applications.

For more information, visit: www.manitowoc.com.

About Trimble

Trimble applies technology to make field and mobile workers in businesses and government significantly more productive. Solutions are focused on applications requiring position or location—including surveying, construction, agriculture, fleet and asset management, public safety, and mapping. In addition to utilizing positioning technologies, such as GPS, lasers and optics, Trimble solutions may include software content specific to the needs of the user. Wireless technologies are utilized to deliver the solution to the user and to ensure a tight coupling of the field and the back office. Founded in 1978, Trimble is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif.

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Business Announcements Electronics Machinery Mobile Communications WebWireID151857 Article Tarpon Bay Construction, A Fort Myers Remodeling Contractor, Moves Offices http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=150936 Sun, 22 Jan 2012 21:24:14 EST Tarpon Bay Construction announced today that they have moved their offices to 1845 Monte Vista St. in Fort Myers, Florida.

Brent Schepp, President, said: "Most of our clients are in the Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel, and Captiva area and moving our offices to Fort Myers just made sense to better serve those clients.'

Tarpon Bay construction has been in business for more than 25 years in the Fort Myers area, building custom homes and major remodeling projects. Their business model is based upon listening to their customers and then designing and building their projects based on the customer's real needs.

Because of today's economy, remodeling has become the best option for homeowners to actually convert their existing homes to their dream homes. Another Tarpon Bay Construction specialty is in total remodel or build-outs of condominiums. Schepp says this is becoming very popular in today's market because of the low interest rates.

They also like smaller projects including room additions, garage additions, sunrooms, and total bathroom and kitchen remodels.

Schepp also emphasized that even though custom home building has slowed down in this market, Tarpon Bay Construction is still a viable building contractor and can build quality custom homes. "Our new location in Fort Myers puts us closer to our clients offering better convenience and the ability to form a more personal relationship with them.'

Those interested may visit its new website, FortMyersRemodelingContractors.com, and fill out its free consultation form for any of their remodeling or custom home building needs.

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Real Estate WebWireID150936 Article Solar Powered Hot Water Systems Cut Electricity Bills http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151061 Sat, 21 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST NEW SOUTH WALES, Australia, January, 2012 – Conventional water heaters that use electricity and gas are guilty of being the largest energy consumption devices in Australian homes. Because of this, the Australian government started offering Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to encourage homeowners to install solar water heaters or heat pumps to replace old-fashioned, energy-hungry electric water heaters. Solar Power installs energy efficient solar water systems that provide hot water to homeowners anytime. www.solarpowertamworth.com.au/
 
Mick Daniels, Solar Power Tamworth director and owner says, 'Solar Power Tamworth systems receive up to 47 renewable energy credits (REC's) points from the Federal government – one of the highest in the market. We offer Australians the opportunity to participate in an initiative that will help them save money and will also have lasting benefits for our planet. A solar power system is an investment in the future of our planet that will show returns for home owners as soon as their first electricity bill arrives. A 2.1 kW photovoltaic solar system will cut the electricity bills in many homes by 33%.'
 
Solar power systems reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and ensure a healthier planet for future generations. When it comes to eco-friendly energy solutions, the natural choice is solar power systems because they help reduce the impact of greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy costs. www.solarpowertamworth.com.au/
 
Solar Power Tamworth & North West offers a wide range of hot water solutions. Its water heaters use the sun's rays to heat water first; however, if the sun is unable to deliver enough energy to heat the water, it uses electricity or gas to boost the heat. This helps homeowners save money and still enjoy the comforts of 'on demand' hot water at home. Solar Power's hot water systems also use less energy making them not only easier on the pocket, but easier on the environment as well. www.solarpowertamworth.com.au/
 

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Household / Consumer / Cosmetics Utilities WebWireID151061 Article Roller Blinds Provide Insulation Against Rising Electricity Costs http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151732 Sat, 21 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST VICTORIA, Australia January, 2012 – Electricity costs rose by an average of 10 per cent on New Year's Day and are expected to jump another 10 per cent when the carbon tax begins on July 1*. Ben Freund, chief executive of one of Australia's leading price comparison service company warns 'we are looking at the doubling of the cost of power in five years' time'*. www.noworriesblinds.com.au/

Rising electricity costs are forcing Australians to look for ways to reduce their consumption and Macksville NSW residents Lesley & Ian Taylor have found one way – roller blinds from No Worries Blinds. 'They are attractive, they noticeably reduce the temperature inside the house and they don't darken our living areas,' say the couple.

'Roller blinds have been found to be more efficient at reducing home heating and cooling costs than curtains and many louvered blinds, reducing heat exchange by up to 28% due to their close proximity to the glass,' reveals No Worries Blinds owner Paul Loza. He suggests, 'if you seal the side edges of the roller shade, for example by using side tracks, you can reduce heat exchange by up to 45%.' www.noworriesblinds.com.au/

Roller blinds create an extra layer of still air between windows and the indoors, cutting heat transfer in both hot and cold weather to improve insulation. They block the sun in summer which helps prevent the sunlight turning into unwanted heat; and, in winter, allows sunlight to pass through when homeowners need the benefits of the sun's rays for solar heating. Roller blinds also provide control over the amount of light allowed in to the home – so home owners can perfectly manage the mood of their home with ease.

No Worries Blinds provides affordable, easy to install roller blinds that protect homes, reduce energy consumption and provide savings for homeowners. Their ready to install roller blinds offer real electricity savings for homeowners and create a more insulated type of window around the home. www.noworriesblinds.com.au/
 
* Source: http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/power-surge-to-price-surge-prepare-for-an-expensive-education-says-expert-20120102-1pigm.html

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Household / Consumer / Cosmetics WebWireID151732 Article Lead Harms Children at Lower Levels than Previously Thought, Study Finds http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151821 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:49:16 EST Experts say that the threshold for diagnosing lead poisoning in children should be lowered in light of new evidence that lead can harm children at lower levels than previously thought. Consequently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) may revise its standards in response to a federal advisory committee's recommendation.
 
According the New York Times, this is the first recommendation of its kind in twenty years and would translate into hundreds of thousands more children meeting the standard for lead poisoning.
 
Children are at the greatest risk for lead poisoning, because they are still developing and their small bodies would contain higher concentrations than adults. Possible complications resulting from lead poisoning are learning disabilities, mental retardation, behavioral problems, lowered intelligence, stunted growth, and hearing impairment.
 
'As the first step in the lead removal process, EMSL Analytical analyzes soil, drinking and waste water, air, wipes, and paint chip samples for competitive prices,' states Shannon Kauffman, Supervisor of EMSL's Metals Laboratory. 'Furthermore, we offer legally defensible lead testing at locations across the country.'
 
For more information on EMSL's testing services, please contact EMSL at (800) 220-3675, visit www.EMSL.com, or email info@EMSL.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical, Inc. is a full service testing company providing quality lab services under the same private ownership since 1981. Including the corporate lab facility in Cinnaminson, NJ, EMSL Analytical operates over thirty laboratories nationwide in the US and Canada. We provide analytical services for environmental, indoor air quality (IAQ), industrial hygiene, forensics and materials science, consumer products, food safety, PCR, pharmaceutical, asbestos, lead, and radiological samples. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations, as well as state and federal regulating bodies. Please see our website for a complete listing of accreditations.

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Class Actions / Lawsuits Health Care / Hospitals Real Estate Youth / Children WebWireID151821 Article EMSL Toronto Testing Laboratory Receives A2LA Accreditation http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151807 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 10:21:07 EST EMSL Analytical, a leading provider of advanced environmental laboratory services, announced today that their Toronto, Ontario laboratory has been accredited by the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) for mold and lead testing.  The news has already spread quickly with indoor air quality and environmental professionals who previously had limited choices for accredited laboratory facilities.
 
Molds live in soil, on plants and on dead or decaying matter.  They produce tiny spores to reproduce, just as some plants produce seeds. These mold spores can be found in both indoor and outdoor air, and settled on indoor and outdoor surfaces. When mold spores land on a damp spot, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive.  Since molds gradually destroy the things they grow on, you can prevent damage to building materials and furnishings and save money by eliminating mold growth.
 
Lead has long been recognized as a harmful environmental pollutant. In late 1991, the Secretary of the United States Department of Health and Human Services called lead the "number one environmental threat to the health of children in the United States." There are many ways in which humans are exposed to lead: through air, drinking water, food, contaminated soil, deteriorating paint, and dust. Airborne lead enters the body when an individual breathes or swallows lead particles or dust once it has settled. Before it was known how harmful lead could be, it was used in paint, gasoline, water pipes, and many other products.
 
'EMSL is pleased to be receiving this recognition from A2LA,' reported Joseph Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical.   'Canadian air quality professionals have come to rely on EMSL's Canada laboratory for access to the high quality mold, asbestos and lead testing,' Frasca went on to report.
 
 
For more information on EMSL's testing services, please contact EMSL at (800) 220-3675, visit www.EMSL.com, or email info@EMSL.com.
 
 About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical, Inc. is one of the nation's leading testing laboratories with over 39 locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in consumer product, environmental, industrial hygiene, indoor air quality, microbiology, radon, food and materials testing services to professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP, NVLAP, CDC Elite, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of sampling products, IAQ investigative equipment, thermal imaging cameras, and more. Please visit the website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of lab accreditations, products catalog, sampling guides, and training events.

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Class Actions / Lawsuits Commercial Services Health Care / Hospitals Youth / Children WebWireID151807 Article L.J. Star Announces Metaglas® Sight Glass for Chemical and Pharmaceutical Processing http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151804 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:44:03 EST Twinsburg, Ohio – January 20, 2012 — L.J. Star announces that it offers a full line of Metaglas® sight glass products. Made by fusing pure borosilicate glass within a stainless steel ring, the result is prestressed glass with the strength of steel.
Metaglas is the No. 1 selling fused sight glass, installed in more plants around the world than any other brand. A unique combination of metal and glass formulas make Metaglas sight glasses 4.5x stronger than comparable products. The results are superior safety, a wider operating range, and a long, worry-free service life.
Unlike other sight glass designs, Metaglas meets stringent quality standards such as DIN 7079, DIN 7080, ASME BPE, and ASTM E438, and it is approved for USP Type I use.

Metaglas sight glass windows are suitable for general applications and aseptic use, including applications in flange sight ports, circular weld pads, visual flow indicators, threaded ferrule sight ports and sanitary clamps. The metal component is standard as duplex stainless steel but carbon steel and Hastelloy 'C' is also available.

These products serve a wide variety of applications: threaded sight glasses in hazardous locations, compression chambers, sight glass illumination, fluid measurement and turbulence in gear housings. Special ANSI bolt-on flanges for flat faced flanges are also available.

Testing has shown the Metaglas sight glass to be safe at pressures far exceeding rated pressure. A video shows a Metaglas sight glass under 20 times normal pressure being struck with a steel projectile. Although the surface is chipped, the sight glass remains leak tight. See extreme pressure test sight-glass video: www.ljstar.com/pubs/45.htm.

Metaglas History
In the 1970s, because of the safety risks of conventional sight glass windows, a chemical processor asked longtime glassmaker Herbert's Industrieglas to develop a safer sight glass. Herbert's started to experiment with fusing glass to metal. Although this technology was not new, it was primarily done with materials unsuitable for chemical processing. The development received technical, funding, and testing assistance from major chemical companies Hoechst-Celanese, Bayer AG and BASF, who sought a sight glass that would eliminate the risk of failure and worker injury. The answer was a revolutionary sight glass made by fusing borosilicate glass to a stainless steel ring. Named Metaglas because of its incredible strength and safety, it quickly became the leading fused sight glass in the world.

About L.J. Star
L.J. Star Incorporated provides an extensive line of process observation equipment — sight glasses, lights, sanitary fittings, and level gage instrumentation. Product lines include Metaglas® Safety Sight Windows, Lumiglas® Explosion Proof Lights and Cameras, Visual Flow Indicators, Sight Ports, Sanitary Clamps, Magnetic Level Gages and Gage Glass.  Metaglas is the #1 selling fused sight glass, proven in thousands of installations around the world. Unlike some other sight glasses, it meets stringent DIN 7079 and DIN 7080 quality standards, and it is approved for USP Type I use. For additional information, or to request third-party documentation of standards compliance and product performance claims, contact L.J. Star Incorporated, P.O. Box 1116, Twinsburg, OH 44087. Phone: 330-405-3040. Fax: 330-405-3070. Website: www.ljstar.com. Video: www.youtube.com/ljstar1.
 

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]]> Aerospace / Defense Architecture / Construction / Building Automotive Chemical Machinery WebWireID151804 Article Deco Lighting Announces Game Changing New Product Line will Deflate High LED Luminaire Prices in the Marketplace http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151775 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:21:11 EST Deco Lighting has announced plans to launch a revolutionary new line of commercial
LED luminaires destined to change the current status quo in the solid state lighting
(SSL) market. Integrating advanced design with next generation LED components
and fabrication techniques, the new luminaire line will knock down the price barriers
currently restricting widespread use of SSL for commercial applications. The culmination of a multi-million dollar R&D program and partnership with proprietary component suppliers, the new Deco Lighting LED line is slated for introduction in late 2012. The line will include radical new LED roadway, high bay, indoor recessed, wallpack, architectural and landscape luminaires.

Throughout the U.S., municipalities and businesses are striving to replace their
inefficient lighting to save energy, reduce their utility costs, and go green with more
environmentally friendly, sustainable lighting solutions. New solid state lighting (SSL) technologies offer numerous benefits, including immediate energy savings of 50% or
more, 50,000 hour lifespan for long term maintenance savings, and greater controllability. The use of controls, sensors, daylighting, and intelligent network systems offer an additional 25% or more energy savings by adjusting light levels precisely when and where the illumination is needed. In addition, SSL possesses inherent green earth-friendly properties. Unlike typical gas discharge lamps, the semiconductor LED contains no mercury – a hazardous waste material, produces no ultraviolet radiation, and no EMI [electromagnetic interference) emissions. Due to these properties, LED lighting is a key contributor for government and utility sponsored rebate programs, as well as building projects seeking LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) status and recognition.
 
Major targets for conversion to LED include streetlighting, outdoor area lighting, parking lots and garages that traditionally use HID (high intensity discharge) fixtures. Streetlighting, in particular, can consume up to 40% of a municipality's utility budget. Indoor targets for LED include office lighting traditionally dominated by recessed fluorescent fixtures, and warehouses, high ceiling retail, commercial and industrial buildings that use HID. Despite the considerable benefits over conventional lighting, LED luminaires for these applications come with 'sticker shock' prices for municipal and business customers. In some cases, federal stimulus funds and utility rebates can help mitigate project procurement costs. However, the typical per unit LED fixture price remains too expensive when compared to conventional alternatives. Deco Lighting has addressed this critical issue in its comprehensive research and development program for next generation LED luminaires. The result is an affordable product line with high performance features and modular design. The customer will also benefit with economical component upgrades to take advantage of the very latest advancements in LED technology and lighting control.

Deco Lighting has rapidly emerged as the leader of Induction lighting for high lumen
applications. With the largest selection of outdoor and indoor Induction luminaires in
the marketplace, Deco Lighting has developed many unique patented and award-winning fixture designs to enhance the performance of Induction technology and its unmatched 100,000 hour lamp life. These innovations include bi-level Induction fixtures, hybrid luminaires, and the use of integral sensors that function automatically without external controls. Deco Lighting recently introduced Plasma technology luminaires as another cutting edge solution for high lumen outdoor and high bay lighting. Featuring a powerful miniature electrodeless lamp and electronic control capabilities, the Deco Plasma lighting line will be expanded with many new fixture designs.

The success of Deco Induction lighting is proven in an expanding number of municipal, commercial, university and military installations throughout the U.S. and overseas. Having established a strong distribution and sales network, as well as a growing base of major customers, Deco Lighting expects great market penetration and success with it's new LED product portfolio. 

Deco Lighting is a leading manufacturer changing the world of lighting with the latest
green technology, energy saving lighting and controls. Deco Lighting's extensive product line includes architectural and commercial fluorescent, Induction, HID, LED, Plasma, Solar, Dark Sky friendly outdoor luminaires, emergency fixtures and sensors. For more information visit www.getdeco.com  e-mail: info@getdeco.com  phone 310-366-6866 fax 310-366-6855.

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Business Announcements Environment Semiconductors Utilities WebWireID151775 Article Garden Marquee Hire Now Available With Modern Garden Heaters – Optix Bars http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151719 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 16:38:04 EST January 19th, 2012 – Sussex, UK – Optix Bars is now offering outdoor heating along with the traditional garden marquee hire available in Kent, Sussex and Surrey. This ensures that parties don't stop just because it's too cold outside.

The heated marquee offers comfort during the cold autumn and winter months. This means that you can still get the mobile bar and garden marquee hire even when there aren't clear blue skies and summer temperatures outside. Optix Bars have also made a few changes to the drinks menu in order to set the scene for this time of year to include some warming drinks such as Winter Pimms and Hot Buttered Rum.

As well as the mobile cocktail bar, the heated marquee will also come with 'a luxuriously lined party structure in any theme our clients wish' says Dean Ford of Optix. With the darker evenings the marquee could be covered with led lights which can 'really enhance the atmosphere of a garden party in the wintertime' says Dean Ford, Partner of Optix Bars.

The garden marquee hire, which can optionally come with outdoor heaters, has been made available so people can still celebrate birthdays and weddings throughout the wintery months. The marquees and mobile bar hire Sussex are available for wedding receptions, garden parties or any other use where a stylish canopy is needed.

'Our garden marquee hire has really become popular with birthday parties. From 18th birthday parties all the way up to 50th birthday parties, people want to celebrate close to home with all their friends and family. These garden marquees can provide the extra space needed to cater for all those party guests in a stylish and convenient way. And with the addition of outdoor heaters, marquee hire is continuing throughout the winter months' says Optix Bars Creative Partner, Alex Ford.

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Lifestyle / Society WebWireID151719 Article QuikDrawers is now national distributors for Tenn-Tex Plastics, home of the QuikTRAY Rollout System http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=151671 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 17:47:21 EST Homeowners are frequently looking to personalize their homes, and the kitchen is a great place to start. Choose replacement cabinet doors that match the rest of your kitchen. Not only should they be attractive, but functional as well. Consider special needs such as child locks and the positioning of the handles.

The doors on the kitchen cabinets are just the beginning of designing the kitchen. Choose pull out cabinet shelves as a way to customize those cabinets. This allows the owner to create higher and lower shelf heights as needed when their needs change. Be sure to match the shelves to the oak cabinet doors or other exterior door design.

Don't forget those kitchen drawers. These are once again very customizable. The drawers may have adjustable compartments to meet the owner's ever changing needs. This will allow him to adjust his kitchen cabinets without having to replace them completely.

Quikdrawers.com is now a national distributor for Tenn-Tex Plastics, home of the QuikTRAY Rollout System as well as many other popular cabinet components. This offers home owners a large variety of options when they are looking to redesign their kitchen cabinets and drawers, for a variety of budgets.

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]]> Architecture / Construction / Building Household / Consumer / Cosmetics Personal Services WebWireID151671 Article