Industrial Archives

Construction and manufacturing trends: what to expect in 2024

Written by Christopher Richmann on January 26, 2024. Posted in Construction, Industrial, Manufacturing. Leave a Comment

It’s a new year, and the economy by all accounts is good. Inflation is cooling, disposable incomes are rising, and the economy expanded in 2023 by 3.3%, according to Axios. That means 2024 should be interesting for the construction and manufacturing sectors.

Both industries face similar challenges, including labor shortages and high interest rates. But there are also numerous positives coming into 2024, such as a stronger supply chain, more support for infrastructure and infrastructure building, and the gradual return of American manufacturing jobs.

To ensure you’re not caught unawares, we have a list of trends in 2024 for both construction and manufacturing.

Efficiency and sustainability drive both industries

If you look around, you’re already seeing changes in both environments — AI, robotics, and more. These technology, labor, and market trends will continue. But one of the most impactful trends, which will affect all aspects of the economy, is efficiency and sustainability.

Companies are pressured from inside and out to enhance their sustainability practices (meeting greener work practices and climate-related goals) while driving down costs. These forces will drive decision-making across construction and manufacturing, as companies seek to become leaner and more efficient in all aspects. For construction, which has more information below, it includes modular — a potentially faster and cheaper way of building.

Supply chain continues to improve

Both the construction and manufacturing industries have been impacted by supply chain issues. Since the pandemic in 202, kinks and outright breaks in the chain caused delays, material shortages, and complete stoppages for many manufacturers and builders. This is already easing and will continue to ease as long as there aren’t unforeseen incidents from Mother Nature or global conflicts.

There are still plenty of bottlenecks for shipping and distribution, but overall products and materials are becoming more available. As the Hartford says, “There is hope on the horizon as professionals have seen the supply chain delays begin to stabilize.”

Although overseas conflicts and the potential for severe weather may affect the supply chain, overall it should run much smoother in 2024 compared to previous years. Of course, you can always work with your industrial supply team on safety stock to ensure the products you need are always available.

Labor

Worker shortages continue

In the current economy, “labor shortages” is an all-too-common phrase. Unfortunately, business owners and managers in virtually every sector, including construction and manufacturing, will continue to deal with finding the right people to fill vacancies.

In 2023, there was a labor shortage of over half a million people in the construction industry alone. How bad will it be in 2024? Will be get better or worse? According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a “smaller workforce will define the economy in 2024.”

Both construction and manufacturing have journeymen and journeywomen who are retiring without people to replace them. These problems are coming to a peak at a time when large construction projects and manufacturing are increasing and there’s more demand for American manufacturing. In concentrated areas, there is a massive need for workers, which means increased competition for labor.

Retraining and retaining workers

Another important trend in 2024 will be the increased need to “reskill” or “upskill” workers. In some cases that means taking an employee from one part of the company and training (at a trade school, college, or conducting training in-house) them on a different part of the business.

Companies will need to get creative about retaining their workforce, preventing them from going to the competition. This retention strategy may include pay increases, bonuses, more vacation time, flexible hours and locations (hybrid, remote, or in-person working), in-company childcare options, and other perks.

Union strikes

As the balance favors the employee over the worker, 2024 could bring more strikes to manufacturing and construction. After the successful labor strike for UAW (United Auto Workers), more employees may try to gain pay or other incentives. Those fields that haven’t unionized in both industries may do so, too. the retention strategy above may help avoid issues and keep workers happy and at your company.

Manufacturing

“Reshoring”

Possibly the most positive trend for 2024, it’s possible that manufacturing will start in earnest to “reshore.” This simply means that manufacturing jobs, a crucial part of the overall U.S. economy, are starting to return from overseas. This would strengthen the nation’s security while also providing quality jobs.

Reshoring takes many forms, not just critical American jobs. It creates a localized and responsive manufacturing ecosystem, improves the supply chain, and reduces the nation’s dependency on foreign producers (such as China).

Increases continue

According to Deloitte, “In 2023, the US manufacturing industry capitalized on the momentum generated by three significant pieces of legislation that were signed into law in 2021 and 2022 — the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). As of July 2023, annual construction spending in manufacturing stands at US$201 billion, representing a 70% year-over-year increase and setting the stage for further industry growth in 2024.”

Of course, this is heavily reliant on a variety of factors, including getting the right people in the right jobs, ensuring the supply chain is stable, and finding efficiencies.

Construction

Overall increases

In the construction industry, most experts predict increased total spending. This increase in spending will be specific to certain areas, sectors, and niches, but overall spending should be positive.

According to Deloitte, construction spending reached $1.98 trillion by August of 2023, which was a 7.4% increase since the previous year. This increase was driven by non-residential construction. In the same time frame, residential construction spending was down 3%. This trend is expected to continue; although, there is hope that with a good economy and stable supply chain, spending in residential construction will recover. Major cities across the U.S. need additional housing, including affordable housing options.

A decline in commercial property value?

Real estate, which is tied at the hip with construction, has seen declines in building commercial buildings. According to the American Institute of Architects, there has been weak demand for property in most commercial sectors. This includes multifamily housing, commercial, and industrial property. Unsurprisingly, office property has seen the biggest decline; this area has dropped in value by almost 15% in the past year, a trend that will likely continue with the changing nature of work.

Prefab and modular continue to rise

Despite declines in residential construction spending, affordable prefabricated and modular housing will likely rise.

The real estate industry, which is heavily influenced by interest rates, available supply, inflation, and other factors, will likely see an increase in overall demand. Many are predicting a surge in real estate because of pent-up demand, which could be released in 2024. This demand will likely drive an increase in prefabricated and modular housing.

After years of economic uncertainty, inflation, and rising interest rates, many individuals and families will finally have the chance to move into homeownership. A blizzard of new projects will likely include numerous prefabricated and modular homes.

This increase, however, will likely be regional. Certain areas will see sharp increases in modular homes, while others may see none at all. Regions, states, and counties with positive job growth will see the biggest demand, while declining areas will see little to no demand for prefabricated and modular houses.

Material costs, labor shortages, mortgage rates, and increased market inventory could cool modular and prefabrication, but overall the signs are pointing to rapid growth.

Are you ready for 2024 and beyond?

Are you ready for the challenges and opportunities of 2024 and beyond? We can help! Our goal is to make your business more efficient and effective by suggestions solutions — including industrial supplies, coating and finishing equipment, compressed air systems and services, and assembly tools.

Foam abrasives 101 from Uneeda

Written by Uneeda on January 23, 2024. Posted in Abrasives, Industrial, Industrial, Industrial supplies, Woodworking. Leave a Comment

Foam-based abrasives – otherwise known as sanding sponges or sanding blocks – have become a popular option for various sanding applications – and they make up some of our most popular products. However, with all the options available, it can be tough to know which will best meet your needs.

In this article, you’ll learn about Uneeda’s foam sponges, their advantages, their differences, and the various technical aspects that could help you choose your ideal solution. Of course, there is no perfect, one-size-fits-all product, so at the end of the day, optimizing your sanding process comes from a balance of knowing the technical aspects of your project needs and the abrasives, as well as some amount of trial and error to find what works best for you.

Foam density

In general, foam abrasives are made from two densities – referring to the “heaviness”/firmness or flexibility/softness of the foam. The two options are soft density, also known as “open-cell”, and hard density, or “closed-cell”.

One isn’t better than the other, rather they are used for different applications.

Soft

Soft-density foam, as you might guess, is more flexible and “squishy.” Open-cell foam will easily fold, flex, and bounce back with no issue or permanent change. This is beneficial when sanding profiles and intricate shapes, such as on crown moldings or contours on cabinet doors, as well as edge sanding. You can manipulate soft-density foam to match any curve or contour you might need to, as the lightness allows the foam to recede and mold to any shape. Soft cell sponges are also great for rounded objects, such as chair or table legs, railings, or newel posts, as they can be wrapped around the workpiece. One issue that sometimes occurs with some soft-density sponges is “grain shed” – in which some of the abrasive grain comes off of the sponge due to the malleability of the foam. This can cause excess grain to be left behind on your surface, while also affecting the longevity of the tool. However, Uneeda’s Ekadiamond sponges, specifically, have been shown to have minimal to no grain shed, making them a high-quality option for this type of sanding. Additionally, because open-cell foam is so soft when sanding by hand, you need to be careful to use even pressure with each finger, to get an even and consistent finish.

Hard

Hard-density foam is made of a thicker foam substrate, which generally isn’t nearly as flexible as open-cell products. Due to the nature of foam, all sponge products have some level of “give”, however, because closed-cell products are much less pliable, they are more suited for flat surfaces, such as inner panels or rails and styles on shaker doors, rather than curved surfaces or profiles. They do have some flex and as such, they can also be used for edge sanding. The denser foam will generally give a better cut rate since the grain will not recede into the foam nearly as much. It will also allow for a lighter cut than conventional abrasives (sanding sheets or discs), since the foam will absorb any pressure from your fingers or vibrations (from a sander). A closed-cell foam block will allow for a consistent finish, even in hand sanding applications, because it will be thick enough to avoid uneven pressure from different fingers/awkward hand positions.

Sanding style

Uneeda’s abrasive sponges are available for two main types of sanding – hand sanding and orbital sander sanding.

Because sponges will offer a softer finish and lower cut rate than regular sandpaper, these products are typically used in finishing applications, such as preparing a piece for stain or paint, or between layers of coating to improve adherence.

Hand sanding

Abrasive sponges are some of the most popular and effective tools for hand sanding (sanding without the use of an orbital or other power sander) applications. While sanding by hand can be tedious, sometimes it is just what is needed to get the best finish. This is especially true for pieces with complex profiles or carvings, which may be too delicate for a sander. In this case, a hand sponge or a sanding block with foam interface pad and traditional coated abrasives could be a great option to get the finish you want. Another benefit to sanding by hand is that it can be more cost-effective than owning and maintaining power sanders – which would be a benefit for lower-volume shops or hobbyists.

Orbital sander

In addition to hand sanding sponges, Uneeda offers various coated foam abrasives as well as foam accessories for the orbital sander. Using a power sander, like the Ekasand Electric or Pneumatic Orbital Sanders, with foam products is a great option to speed up the sanding process in high-volume shops that produce a lot of cabinet doors or other products with curved profiles. You’ll get smooth and consistent results as well as a great finish. Sometimes using an orbital sander can produce swirl marks, especially a 3×4 sander that doesn’t use a random orbit pattern. However, using a foam interface pad with a conventional disc or sheet abrasive, helps to reduce the vibration, allowing the sander to glide more smoothly across the work surface and minimizing the likelihood of swirls. When done correctly, using coated foam abrasives on a sander creates a better, more consistent finish. Plus, it’s much faster than hand sanding.

Uneeda’s foam abrasives

Uneeda offers a variety of sanding sponges for both types of sanding – by hand and using a sander.

Abrasive	Density	Sandin style and advantages
Uneesponge	Hard	Hand sanding abrasive, ideal for flat surfaces and edges, especially for cleaning wood, metal, plaster, plastic, and fiberglass
Ekadiamond	Soft	Hand sponge that’s colorful and creates a diamond pattern
Filmtek, Ekastorm	Soft	Hand sanding block that provides consistent pressure
Ekasilk Plus	Depends on size	Power sander abrasive with various options, great for stripping, prepping, and finishing as well as for the distressed look
Interference Pads	Soft	Power sander abrasive block with hook and loop on both sides

Elevated sanding options

At Elevated Industrial Solutions, we have a variety of abrasives for every job. Uneeda has unique options, and the Ekasilk is admittedly one of our favorites, but we also carry other abrasives, including options from 3M, Arc, Mirka, Hermes, United Abrasives/Sait, Sia, and VSM. Let us help you get the right product for your sanding jobs.

We also go beyond abrasives and products. Our goal is to be the catalyst for your business to grow. We’ll help you look for efficiencies and to be more effective in your processes.

Comparing Alpha’s PSP-158 polisher to the competition

Written by Christopher Richmann on January 16, 2024. Posted in Countertop, Industrial, Industrial. Leave a Comment

Alpha Professional Tools, one of the leading manufacturers of natural and engineered stone tools, proudly announced the release of its next-generation polisher: PSP-158 high-performance polisher. This polisher comes loaded with features that create superior results, better efficiencies, and a safer working environment.

If you work with stone products, including countertop manufacturing or installation, check out the PSP-158 features and why it’s one of the most versatile, effective, reliable stone polishing tools to ever hit the market.

About the PSP-158 High-Performance Polisher

The PSP-158 provides a high level of power and precision. This innovative polisher comes with numerous features and a variety of accessories that make using the tool convenient and efficient. Here are just a few of the features Alpha lists:

High-performance pneumatic polisher
Powerful motor
30′ kink-free twin-air/water hose
All-weather hoses with flexibility down to -40°F or +140°F (-40°C or +60°C)
Quarter-turn switches for precise control
Central water-feed system to deliver ample water (regardless of position)
No-load RPM- 5,500
Comes in a reusable toolbox, great for carrying your equipment to jobs
Silicon gearhead to cushion and warm hands
One-year warranty; read more

Lightweight and flexible, potentially preventing silica dust

Alpha specializes in ergonomically designed, lightweight tools. Users love the cushion and hand warmer at the same time.

Proper water distribution is critical when working with natural and artificial stone products, as it helps control dust and reduce exposure to harmful contaminants, including silica. With complete control of water, workers experience far less exposure to stone dust which can cause a variety of health issues. With the PSP-158, your team can maintain efficiency while thoroughly controlling dust to create a safe working environment. The tool uses a central feed system that delivers enough water to the workspace, even when the tool is being used in an awkward position.

Alpha has included a variety of accessories that come with the polisher. Included in the package are all-weather hoses that maintain flexibility down to -40 and as high as 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Built to last

This tool is also built to last. Alpha has included a variety of features that help maintain the tool throughout its working lifetime. For example, the tool includes a 3.4 oz. bottle of rust inhibitor oil to prevent rust and costly repairs.

Powerful and saves you time

The PSP-158 has a spindle lock — a key feature that will save money by speeding up production. It enables fabricators and installers to spend more time polishing and less time looking for wrenches to change out their backers or core bits.

Quiet

Our Colorado Alpha representative, Alexander Makin, used to be a fabricator. He swears that it’s “quieter than most polishers on the market.” Not only does it reduce noise pollution for your workforce, you can have a real conversation about four feet away. As most fabricators and installers know, that’s a big deal.

Comparing the PSP-158 to other polishers

No handle design

The PSP-158 uses a no-handle design to create greater maneuverability and control for operators. This helps increase efficiency and makes the polishing tool useful in a variety of applications, including unique angles and workpieces with different shapes. Much of the competition uses C-handle or D-handle designs.

Oil port for maintenance

The PSP-158 has an oil port for maintenance, while many similar tools do not. While products from Diamax have an auto-lube injection, similar products from Pearl, Gison, Flex, Weha, and Hercules do not.

A long list of exclusive features

This tool has many features not found in other products, as well as features that are rare for similar tools. For example, the PSP-158 has a quick connector with a valve, hose, and storage toolbox. Many comparable tools do not have these features or accessories.

Silicon gear head cover included

Another feature that enhances the quality of the PSP-158 is the silicon cover, which protects the gearhead and provides greater longevity. This is the only tool in its category of competitors that provides a silicon gearhead cover.

All these features with same air pressure

Perhaps you assume that the RPMs would become slower for the PSP-158 at 90 PSI. This assumption is false! The tool maintains a no-load at 5,500 RPMs, with the same air pressure provided by comparable tools from Samurai, Flex, Weha, and all other tools in its class.

Best horsepower

Compared to similar products, the Alpha PSP-158 provides the best horsepower. Other products, when the data is provided, are around .32 to .52 hp, while the Alpha PSP-158 high-performance polisher provides .7 hp.

Lighter than many products

While the PSP-158 is not the lightest tool on the market, compared to similar products it’s lighter or only slightly heavier. The PSP-158 has a listed weight of 3.0 pounds. That means it’s easy to handle, even for those big polishing jobs. Many other products weigh as much as a full pound more than the PSP-158.

A full-year warranty

When you spend hundreds of dollars on a single tool, you need to know that it will meet your expectations and last long enough to justify the price. Alpha is demonstrating unsurpassed confidence in the PSP-158 by providing a one-year warranty with certain limitations; read about those limitations. While Flex also provides a one-year warranty, and Weha provides a 360-day warranty, similar tools have warranties of only 90, 60, or 30 days.

Plus, Alpha has a repair facility where you can send your tools even after that year is over.

What does the PSP-158 need to run efficiently?

You must have the right PSI and CFM to run this tool effectively. Air pressure is 90 PSI and the air consumption needed is 21 CFM. If you’re in SE Michigan, western Ohio, or South Carolina, our team can work with your facility manager to ensure you have the proper airflow.

Compare the PSP-158 to other polishers

See how the PSP-158 stacks up against the competition yourself: polishing-tool comparison chart. Watch out, it might just blow you away.

Contact us about the PSP-158 or other countertop gear

At Elevated, we pride ourselves on being a one-stop shop for everything you need to fabricate and install countertops and cabinets. Adhesives, caulks, polishing tools, and more — we have the solutions you need to work more efficiently and effectively.