DICA acquires assets of Linton Rigging Gear Supplies

DICA announced it has reached an agreement with Ray Linton to purchase the assets of Linton Rigging Gear Supplies, LLC. Following the completion of the acquisition, DICA will assume all ongoing operations.

The timing of the announcement during the 2020 ConExpo-Con/Agg show could not be better, the company said. As a shipyard crane operator, crane and rigging supervisor, and lift planner, Ray Linton had attended several ConExpos in the 1990s seeking a solution for sling protection. Finding nothing, he devised his own solution. “Much as DICA was founded on the quest to build a better outrigger pad, the Linton edge protector was born out of an industry need,” said Kris Koberg, CEO, CIS.

“We started with $1000 and an idea,” said Ray Linton. “We are happy this idea became a product that reduces risk in the crane and rigging industry.”

Linton Rigging Gear edge protectors prevent sling damage and potential failure from sharp corners or load edges, and increase D/d ratios, preserving sling capacity around corners. Made of solid nylon, the edge protectors are 1/7^th the weight of steel and are avaible with Velcro straps to ensure slings stay in place. The patented edge protectors attach to metal surfaces with magnets, requiring no tools to install.

ASME B30.9 and OSHA 29 CFR 1926.251(c)(9) require slings to be protected in scenarios when slings are in contact with edges, corners or protrusions. “Ray Linton’s design was a revolutionary concept when he introduced nylon sling protectors to the rigging industry nearly 20 years ago. Linton’s engineered products are designed to be lightweight, easy to use, and improve safety and productivity. These are the type of qualities customers expect from all DICA products,” said Koberg.

Linton and his wife, Patty, who have operated Linton Rigging Gear Supplies as a team, are ready to retire. “We are glad the legacy of our work will continue under the care of DICA,” said Linton, who will serve in a consulting role with DICA to provide product support through the transition.