mfl: What technical trends are driving the sector?
Schmalenberg: In a nutshell: lightweight construction - in particular high-performance fibers (high-performance polyethylene) with enormous load-bearing capacity, high cut resistance and good handling properties, with a comparatively low dead weight. Round slings made of Dyneema (UHMW-PE), for example, are popular in the heavy-duty sector. They score points with tare weight reductions of up to 60% compared to polyester products - with a comparable working length and load-bearing capacity. Many companies also rely on grade 12 sling chains, which have up to 60% higher load-bearing capacity than GK8 chains with the same nominal thickness. Even compared to GK10 chains, grade 12 still offers weight advantages of up to 25 %.

mfl: What products has your company recently developed for this market?
Schmalenberg: We have adapted our service portfolio to the desire for cost-reducing and environmentally friendly solutions. Instead of new purchases and replacements, we are increasingly focusing on repairs. Sustainable companies are taking advantage of our own repair and service workshop. This applies in particular to chain hoists, but also to the sewing of textile slings such as large round slings or lifting slings. An important component is our external testing service, including flux testing of chains in accordance with DGUV.

mfl: What other developments can we expect this year?
Schmalenberg: In addition to the growing number of lightweight items, we are increasingly focusing on on-site repairs as part of mobile testing and are continuing to expand this area. The time-consuming shipping back and forth is no longer necessary and decisions regarding new purchases can be made immediately. In this way, we are reducing interruptions in operational processes and eliminating the need for duplicate stocks of lifting gear. ms