Caldwell Expands SmartSpec Platform With Model 85 Coil Lifter

The Caldwell Group Inc. has added its Model 85 motorized telescoping coil lifter to the company’s SmartSpec digital configuration platform, expanding the range of customizable below-the-hook (BTH) lifting equipment available to distributors and customers.

SmartSpec is a web-based tool designed to help dealers configure non-standard lifting products. The platform allows users to view pricing, place orders and create customized equipment designs at any time.

The Model 85 coil lifter, one of Caldwell’s most widely used products, is stocked in capacities up to 33 tons and offers a variety of customization options. These include higher load capacities, rotation features, load scales, indicator lights, padding, toe rollers and additional modifications.

Caldwell also recently added the Model 80H Dixon coil C-hook with pivoting wedge to SmartSpec. The C-hook allows operators to insert the wedge between stacked coils to separate them and initiate a tilt, enabling easier placement of the hook. The Model 80H is stocked in capacities up to five tons. The Model 60 heavy-duty sheet lifter is among other products already available through the platform.

“SmartSpec is rapidly getting a reputation for facilitating selection of BTH equipment, when customers need it. The Model 85 is a good example of the power of the platform; it takes one of our most popular products — one of our most customized — and now customers can get quotes faster than ever. In fact, they can get drawings and quotes in minutes,” said Jeff Ferchen, director of business development at Caldwell.

According to Doug Stitt, president and CEO of Caldwell, customer demand for faster service continues to influence the company’s digital investments.

“Speed, especially in today’s world, is critically important. Customers want to be taken care of quickly and efficiently. They order their consumer items to be delivered the same day. They have thousands of hours of entertainment content on their smart devices — now. These trends continue to drive our investment in the [SmartSpec] platform,” Stitt said.

He added: “We’re meeting our customers where they are. Some prefer the focus and portability of our smaller, targeted catalogs, covering below-the-hook lifters; construction lifters; mill duty lifters; Renfroe clamps; or RUD lifting points. While others — sales reps, purchasing agents and even some end users — prefer everything in one big book. Of course, others want everything online. We’re happy to make sure everyone gets what they need.”

The Model 85 coil lifter features motorized leg drive, curved lifting pads for coil protection, narrow aisle stacking capability to maximize storage space and high-impact plastic toe rollers to reduce contact with coils. Additional features include an anti-clamp limit switch to help protect loads during closing and heavy-duty torque-limiting drive protection.

Caldwell noted that additional products will continue to be added to SmartSpec, with the Model 25 twin hoist lifting beam expected to be available soon.