News & Events

What is Power Hydraulics? Exploring the Power Team Advantage

HT Marketing Group — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 17:02:28 GMT

Hydraulic Pump 101: Insights from a Leading Manufacturer

HT Marketing Group — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 17:02:02 GMT

HT Makes Growth Investment in Hydra-Slide Business

HT Marketing Group — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 13:38:28 GMT

Lifting 7,000 Tons: Hydraulic Technologies' Heavy Lift Solutions

robert.wenrich@spxflow.com (Robert Wenrich) — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 20:18:52 GMT

Lifting the Palace: Engineering Feat in Times Square

The Historical Significance of the Palace Theatre
The Palace Theatre, nestled in the heart of New York's bustling Times Square, stands as a beacon of theatrical history. Since its inception in 1913, the theatre has hosted a pantheon of legendary performers, from the mesmerizing illusions of Harry Houdini to the captivating performances of Liza Minelli. It served as a stage for the most prestigious acts, earning its reputation as a "palace" of entertainment. The grandeur of its architecture, with intricate plasterwork and luxurious interiors, was designed to impress both royalty and commoners alike. Over the decades, the Palace has endured the ebbs and flows of Broadway's fortunes, cementing its place as an indelible cultural landmark.

Despite its illustrious past, the Palace Theatre faced an uncertain future in the 1980s when redevelopment plans for Times Square threatened its existence. However, a timely intervention led to its designation as a City Landmark, safeguarding its historic significance. The theatre's story is one of resilience, a testament to the enduring appeal of live performance and the power of cultural preservation.

Unraveling the Vision Behind TSX Broadway
The TSX Broadway project was a bold vision that sought to redefine entertainment in Times Square while honoring the legacy of the Palace Theatre. Designed to be New York's most advanced entertainment venue, TSX Broadway promised to blend the historical charm of the past with the cutting-edge technology of the future. At its core was the ambition to create a dynamic space where the past meets the present, providing an unparalleled experience for performers and audiences alike.

This ambitious project involved the construction of a 170-meter tower that serves as a centerpiece in the heart of Times Square. With a show-stopping outdoor performance platform and the largest LED display screen in the area, TSX Broadway aimed to capture the imagination of millions. The integration of experiential retail spaces further enhances its vision, transforming the venue into a vibrant cultural and commercial hub.

Engineering Challenges and Solutions
Elevating the historic Palace Theatre posed a myriad of engineering challenges that required innovative solutions. The project demanded precision and care, as the theatre's landmark status mandated the preservation of its interior while allowing for significant structural modifications. The task of lifting a 1,700-seat theatre nearly 10 meters into the air was unprecedented in New York City, necessitating meticulous planning and execution.

The engineering team faced the daunting challenge of ensuring the stability of the theatre during the lift. This was achieved through the installation of 34 specially designed lifting posts in the cleared basement, with tilt meters and extensometers monitoring the structure for any signs of distress. The lift was executed in small increments, using Power Team's Motion Control System, each synchronous movement was followed by a thorough inspection to ensure the integrity of the theatre. This careful and calculated approach minimized risks and ensured the safety of the structure and workers involved.

Innovative Construction Techniques Employed
The elevation of the Palace Theatre was made possible by the use of state-of-the-art construction techniques and Power Team's Synchronous lifting equipment. Power Team's hydraulic cylinders played a crucial role in the lift, enabling the precise and gradual elevation of the theatre box. The construction team employed a "stroke" method, lifting the theatre in 12-centimeter increments to maintain control and accuracy throughout the process.

The coordination of multiple teams of structural engineers was instrumental in the project's success. Each team focused on different aspects of the lift, from the foundations to the lifting apparatus and the theatre itself. This collaborative approach ensured that every detail was meticulously addressed, resulting in a seamless and safe operation. The use of advanced monitoring systems and shoring techniques further safeguarded the theatre, allowing it to rise majestically to its new position.

Impact on the Theatre Industry and Times Square
The successful elevation of the Palace Theatre marks a significant milestone in the theatre industry and the broader landscape of Times Square. It demonstrates the potential for innovative engineering to preserve historic landmarks while accommodating modern developments. The project sets a precedent for future endeavors, highlighting the feasibility of integrating heritage with contemporary architecture.

For Times Square, the transformation of the Palace Theatre into part of the TSX Broadway venue promises to rejuvenate the area and attract new audiences. The fusion of historical significance with modern amenities enhances the district's cultural appeal, reinforcing its status as a global entertainment hub. The project also underscores the importance of adaptive reuse in urban development, offering a sustainable model for preserving historical sites.

To learn more about Power Team's Heavy lift solutions page HERE.
You can also watch our YouTube video about the lift HERE.
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robert.wenrich@spxflow.com (Robert Wenrich) — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 13:15:00 GMT

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AREMA 2024 Conference | Hydraulic Technologies

robert.wenrich@spxflow.com (Robert Wenrich) — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 18:09:52 GMT

Great news! Hydraulic Technologies will be attending the AREMA Convention from September 16th to 18th in Louisville, KY, at the Kentucky International Convention Center in Booth 701. We will have industry experts from Rail Systems, Power Team, and Posi Lock on site. If you would like to set up some time with one of the industry experts, please go to our Contact Us Page.

SCRA CRW 2024: Upcoming Events at Hydraulic Technologies

robert.wenrich@spxflow.com (Robert Wenrich) — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 18:09:06 GMT

Great news! Power Team will be attending the SC&RA Crane and Rigging Workshop from September 24th to 26th in Glendale, AZ, at the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel in Booth 66.
We will have industry experts from Power Team, on site if you would like to set up some time with one of the industry experts, please go to our Contact Us Page.

Safety First: Essential Tips for Working with Hydraulics

robert.wenrich@spxflow.com (Robert Wenrich) — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 14:25:22 GMT

Hydraulic systems and tools are critical in many industries, from construction to manufacturing, providing immense power and precision. However, they also pose significant risks if not handled correctly. Ensuring safety when working with hydraulics is paramount to prevent accidents and equipment damage. Here are some essential safety tips for working with hydraulics and hydraulic tools:

New Hydraulic Technologies Brand Identity Launch

HT Marketing Group — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 03:56:13 GMT

HYDRAULIC TECHNOLOGIES introduced a new global brand identity for its industrial-branded pumps, tools and equipment products. The new identity modernizes all of the brands through a simplified and focused redesign. The new brand identity will begin to transition immediately through all brands under Hydraulic Technologies into marketing efforts during this year.
Hydraulic Technologies' trusted brands sit underneath the new formation of the HYDRAULIC TECHNOLOGIES business; POWER TEAM, BOLTING SYSTEMS, STONE, RAIL SYSTEMS, HYTEC WORKHOLDING AND POSI LOCK. As a portfolio business under Wynnchurch Capital, Hydraulic Technologies will continue to provide and accelerate more innovative and reliable products while also providing our channels an expressive, demonstrative and empowering experience with the new look and feel of our brands for industrial markets.
Aaron Sztuk, General Manager of HT, said, “We are proud of the reputation we have built providing superior performance, quality, and service to our customers who rely on Hydraulic Technologies for their mission-critical needs. I am excited about our new company identity and brand launch offering a clear and cohesive message across our branded products.”

Our new Company Identity sets standards for how the Hydraulic Technologies business and brands are expressed to our colleagues and customers. Our core color will follow suit and leverage the strength of “Power Team Orange” throughout the remaining brands.

Wynnchurch Capital Acquires HT from SPX FLOW

HT Marketing Group — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 22:44:13 GMT

Rosemont, IL – June 4, 2024 – Wynnchurch Capital, L.P. (“Wynnchurch”), announced today that it has acquired Hydraulic Technologies (“HT” or the “Company”) from SPX FLOW.
Tracing its roots back to 1925 and headquartered in Rockford, Illinois, Hydraulic Technologies designs, engineers and manufactures high-pressure hydraulic tools and equipment. A market leader in high-pressure hydraulic tools, HT’s products serve mission-critical applications and are essential in maintenance, repair, and operational functions across a wide range of industries, including infrastructure, manufacturing, and rail.

Aaron Sztuk, General Manager of HT, said, “We are proud of the reputation we have built providing superior performance, quality, and service to our customers who rely on Hydraulic Technologies for their mission-critical needs. Wynnchurch understands the strong value proposition we provide, and we could not be more excited to partner with them.”

Frank Hayes, Managing Partner at Wynnchurch, said, “As a global leader of highly engineered hydraulic tools, HT’s customer-centric focus on delivering best-in-class solutions for the most demanding of needs fits well with our investment philosophy. We are delighted to partner with Aaron and his team to further support their next phase of growth.”

Neel Mayenkar, Partner at Wynnchurch, stated, “HT is well positioned to benefit from the repair and replacement of aging global infrastructure and can tackle customers’ most complex and difficult jobs safely and efficiently. We plan to invest heavily to accelerate HT’s growth and build upon its industry-leading service and product offering.”

Carl Howe, Managing Director at Wynnchurch, added, “This acquisition demonstrates Wynnchurch’s constructive approach to quickly and efficiently carve out certain operations from their corporate parents. As a standalone company, we look forward to working with HT and its management team to drive growth and innovation.”

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC acted as financial advisor, and Paul Hastings LLP acted as legal advisor, to Wynnchurch.

Wynnchurch manages a number of private equity funds with $9.2 billion of regulatory assets under management and is actively seeking investments. In April, Wynnchurch acquired Reagent, a leading distributor of hydrochloric acid in North America. Other recent investments include: Handgards, a leading distributor of foodservice products, including disposable gloves, reclosable bags, tabletop items, expendables, and other carryout products; FloWorks, a distributor of critical flow control products; and Industrial Service Solutions, a national provider of MRO-focused field, shop, and supply services.

ABOUT HYDRAULIC TECHNOLOGIES:
Headquartered in Rockford, Illinois, Hydraulic Technologies designs, engineers and manufactures high-pressure hydraulic tools and equipment. A market leader in high-pressure hydraulic tools, HT’s products serve mission-critical applications and are essential in maintenance, repair, and operational functions across a wide range of industries, including infrastructure, manufacturing, and rail. For more information, please visit: www.hydraulictechnologies.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

ABOUT WYNNCHURCH CAPITAL:
Wynnchurch Capital, L.P., headquartered in the Chicago suburb of Rosemont, Illinois, with an affiliate in Canada, was founded in 1999 and is a leading middle-market private equity investment firm. Wynnchurch’s strategy is to partner with middle market companies in the United States and Canada that possess the potential for substantial growth and profit improvement. Wynnchurch manages a number of private equity funds with $9.2 billion of regulatory assets under management and specializes in recapitalizations, growth capital, management buyouts, corporate carve-outs, and restructurings. For more information, please visit: www.wynnchurch.com or follow us on LinkedIn.