UK-based lifting and rigging solutions supplier William Hackett is expanding its offering by integrating RFID technology into its Hack8 and Hack10 chain sling assembly tags.
The digital advancement allows riggers and users to access essential product information swiftly, improving safety standards and operational efficiency.
The RFID chips, embedded in the assembly tags, use NFC technology, enabling users to access key product details by scanning the tag with their mobile phones.
The updated William Hackett app, freely available on the Apple App Store and Google Play, facilitates the process by providing immediate access to critical documentation.
William Hackett plans to integrate RFID chips into all Hack8 and Hack10 assemblies manufactured in the UK, with plans for further digitalisation of products.
William Hackett business transformation lead Josh Burgess said: “The addition of RFID chips to our Hack8 and Hack10 products answers a growing call from our customers for digital tools to access documentation.
“William Hackett has always been at the forefront of safety. RFID chips are the latest weapon in our arsenal to help reduce risk and enhance safe working within our industry.”
The new digital solution would offer quick access to Declaration of Conformity certificates, containing serial numbers, item codes, working load limits (WLL), and manufacturing dates.
It allows users to view essential safe use instructions and save recently scanned tags for future reference.
The updated William Hackett app stores its previous functionality, including a sling calculator for designing new sling assemblies.
Also, the technology allows users to upload assembly data into their asset management platforms, streamlining asset management by consolidating information in one source.
The integration of RFID technology is expected to address the increasing customer demand for digital solutions in asset management.
Josh added: “This is only the beginning of our journey to integrate data into our products. We’re introducing RFID chips in a way that is user-friendly for operators and brings benefits to our distributors at the same time.
“Distributors don’t need to pay out for a new asset management system; we can give them access to the data they need within their existing platforms.”
Earlier this year, William Hackett acquired Forge Lifting Gear, which offers rapid prototype and production capabilities, to sectors like energy, construction, mining, agriculture, and utilities.
Through the acquisition, William Hackett gains expertise in bending, boring, chamfering, drilling, folding, milling, hot forging, tapping, thread cutting, and welding.
