Chair’s Message
- Eric Bernath
It was great to see everyone at the RIPA Conference last month in Houston! We had a great turnout, at a great venue, with a great program!
Also, many thanks to IPANA for sharing in parts of the program as well as the Suppliers Exposition. The exhibit hall was very busy and the exhibitors' displays were very impressive. Indeed, the exhibits themselves seem to reach new levels of sophistication with each passing year.
RIPA introduced a new offering at the Annual Conference: sponsorships by individual member companies. The conference featured four Suppliers who signed on to promote their companies with display tables, entertainment and/or handouts of various items. One company reserved for themselves the placement of their name on the attendees’ name badge lanyards. Thanks to CDF Corporation, Enterprise Marking Products (EMP), Drum Parts Midwest and Caribbean Containers for leading us into this new conference offering. There are likely to be other such sponsorships going forward.
Speaking of new offerings, RIPA launched in 2024 two significant new programs. One, the Next Generation Development Program, is described in greater detail elsewhere in this edition of RIPA E*News. In short, the association is investing in its future: RIPA is inviting relatively young personnel (or those new to the industry) to enroll in a short course of sessions on the association, its history, its opportunities and its direction. I urge everyone to look into the program and suggest someone for the course. We have several enrollees already, but there is room for more.
The second new feature of the association: a new Recycling Committee. As matters of recycling are appearing so widely across the industry, RIPA saw a need for a forum to focus on these issues and take actions where necessary. Chaired by Mr. Bryan Wallace of Coastal Container Services in Texas, the Committee is still being constituted but should be fully ordained by the beginning of 2025. Anyone wanting to be on the Committee should contact the RIPA office.
The next big event for RIPA is the Spring Technical Conference, to be held May 4 – 6 in wonderful Indianapolis, Indiana. We will be convening at the historic Omni Severin Hotel in the charming downtown neighborhood. Don’t miss this conference. After a few years off, the RIPA Plant Tour is making a return with a visit to an IBC operation hosted by RIPA Member Superior Tote Solutions (transportation provided). There are likely to be some additional special announcements between now and then.
Meanwhile, wishing everyone a great Holiday Season!
|
|
Plenty of Energy in Texas – RIPA 83rd Annual Conference Report
 Nearly 100 RIPA members traveled to the "Lone Star State" of Texas for the association’s 83rd Annual Conference. By all accounts, the Conference was a smashing success. It was packed with great presentations, wonderful social events and a Supplier’s Exhibition featuring several new product offerings.
Texas is the largest producer of oil (43 percent), natural gas (25 percent) and wind-powered electricity (26 percent) in the nation. So, perhaps it was not surprising that conference-goers seemed energized by the opportunity to greet friends and colleagues from around the country.
Despite reports that the industrial packaging business was in a holding pattern in the run-up to the election, members were generally upbeat about business prospects for the coming year.
The conference, which was co-located with the Industrial Packaging Alliance of North America (IPANA), got off to a great start on Wednesday evening with the Supplier’s Exhibition and Reception. Thirteen members of RIPA and IPANA exhibited their products to an estimated 150 members of the two groups. The food was good, drinks plentiful and spirits were high.
 On Thursday morning, the joint RIPA / IPANA plenary session featured four outstanding speakers talking about the U.S. economy, energy policy and the upcoming election. RIPA Chair Eric Bernath and IPANA Chair Kevin Kling welcomed attendees and indicated strong support for the co-located conference format. Both said that their associations have agreed to continue this beneficial partnership going forward.
 Mr. Bernard Baumohl, Chief Global Economist, The Economic Outlook Group, Inc., offered insights into today’s complex and rapidly changing economy. He cautioned that even his short-term predictions were subject to almost daily revisions because “…the geopolitical pot is in full boil.” Baumohl believes the U.S. economy remains the strongest in the world and, baring a major military or health event, should stay strong through 2025. He analyzed both Presidential candidate’s positions on the economy and agreed with the Wall Street Journal that both would increase the deficit. However, Baumohl is concerned with Trump's promise to impose a range of new tariffs on imports from China and other nations. “Tariffs are just consumer taxes in disguise,” he said.
Stephanie Perdue and George Fibbe, partners at the law firm Baker Botts, compared and contrasted the energy policies of Ms. Harris and Mr. Trump. Purdue believes Ms. Harris is likely to double down on President Biden’s anti-oil positions, and limit or eliminate fracking in the U.S. and limit new exploration by aggressively promoting the use of Environmental Justice strategies to slow down the permitting process. Trump, she believes, will do just the opposite. He is expected to fast-track the energy permitting process and promote exploration. Fibbe believes Harris will continue to delay permits for LNG exports, even for our own trading partners, and could seek to impose a carbon tax on imported and exported goods.
 Speaking just before the U.S. election, Tim Gould, Director of National Affairs with the National Association of Manufacturers, said "..the Presidential election is a 'toss up' ". Mr. Gould has visited 30 states this past year studying Congressional races for the U.S. House and Senate. His analysis reveals that the House is likely to tip over to the Democrats while the Senate appears to favor a one or two vote margin for Republicans. Once again, “..we are likely to see a divided Congress, which will make it difficult for the President to pass budgets and controversial legislation,” concluded Gould.
On Thursday evening, RIPA’s Chair’s Reception was a great success. Sponsored by Caribbean Containers (thank you, Yana!), members were treated to wonderful music, excellent food and easy access to the exhibits and the refreshments.
Friday’s breakfast, sponsored by Drum Parts Midwest (thank you, Steve!), was followed by a very positive “State of the Association” report from RIPA Chair Eric Bernath. Bernath advised that RIPA is in excellent financial condition and is likely to add several new members in the coming year. The association has launched an exciting “Next Generation” program designed to familiarize younger members of RIPA, as well as individuals that are relatively new to the industry, with the association and ensure that tomorrow’s leaders are comfortable and prepared. Bernath also noted that RIPA has created a Recycling Committee, Chaired by Mr. Bryan Wallace, Coastal Container Services. The Committee will raise member awareness of recycling issues and help members expand opportunities in this space.
Attendees heard from a recycling industry legend, Becky Proler, Southern Core Recycling, to start the afternoon program. Ms. Proler’s grandfather invented the automobile shredder, an accomplishment that has been recognized by the Smithsonian Museum, which is exhibiting parts of the machine. Proler gave members key insights into the global business of scrap metal and plastics recycling, as well as some tips on how to get the best value for scrap material.
 The Dangerous Goods Advisory Council's President Mr. Vaughn Arthur presented a wonderful seminar on how to navigate the complex world of "49 CFR" (where the U.S. hazmat regulations reside). Arthur explained the structure of the regulations and how to find what you are looking for when you need answers to your regulatory questions.
Mr. Alex George, U.S. PHMSA Senior Investigator, introduced members to the Agency’s Systems Integrity Safety Program (SISP), which was created to provide risk-free consulting services to company’s regulated by PHSMA. “Reconditioner’s that take part in the SISP program will work with agency inspectors to identify and correct any actual or potential compliance problems,” said George. “And the best part is that while you are working with PHMSA, absolutely no enforcement actions will be taken against your company.” George said the only exception to the “no enforcement” rule is if life threatening situations are encountered.
 During the break, which was sponsored by CDF Corporation (thank you Jim!), several members spoke with Mr. George about possibly participating in the SISP program.
Following the break, Mr. Prakash Iyer, Inhance Technologies, presented an overview of federal and state efforts to regulate "PFAS", which are a class of chemicals considered by some to be of significant concern. Some of these chemicals are alleged to form in the use of certain barrier technologies inside some plastic packagings. EPA and several states are seeking to regulate the presence of these “forever chemicals". The Agency may further its efforts to examine the occurrence of these chemicals in industrial settings and other uses.
 RIPA Chair Eric Bernath said, “This was one of the best and most informative conferences in years.” Thanks to EMP (Enterprise Marking Products), Mike and Jennifer, for also sponsoring the Conference with the branded name-badge lanyards!
Anyone also interested in sponsoring an individual event? Just contact the RIPA office.
|
|
RIPA Members Visit U.S. PHMSA Packaging Test Facility
 Thirteen RIPA members and President Paul Rankin visited the PHMSA packaging testing facility in Tobyhanna, PA last month. DOT extended the invitation as part of a public outreach program aimed at educating the packaging industry about testing practices and procedures.
Outgoing PHMSA packaging manager Katelin Maits hosted the group, who witnessed performance testing of 55-gallon steel and plastic drums, as well as a 275-gallon intermediate bulk container. The tests included hydrostatic and drop tests for the drum and IBC samples, and a vibration test for the IBC. Yes, the containers passed the tests!
 All the attendees were impressed with the professionalism of the Tobyhanna staff and were surprised to learn about some new equipment used by the Agency to conduct the hydrostatic test. PHMSA uses a pressure equalizing system manufactured by Equilibar, Inc. during the hydrostatic tests. The machine automatically maintains constant pressure in the test container, ensuring a more consistent test.
 The outing was popular enough that the association is considering arranging a similar event in a year or two. Members will be notified when the trip is scheduled.
As it happens, the Chemical Packaging Committee (CPC) also enjoyed a tour of the Tobyhanna test lab a bit later in October. RIPA Technical Director, C.L. Pettit, was there in his role as both a CPC Member and as CPC Vice Chair. A group of 22 packaging professionals made the journey to northeast Pennsylvania to engage with the lab's packaging engineers and discuss matters of test protocols and best practices.
|
|
|
RIPA President Addresses U.S. PHMSA Field Op’s Conference
RIPA President Paul Rankin told a meeting of 96 PHMSA enforcement officials that the association is strongly supportive a the Agency’s cooperative enforcement program, officially called the Systems Integrity Safety Program (SISP). He thanked the Agency for efforts to accommodate industry needs through increased use of Special Permits, and noted that RIPA members understand the public safety benefits associated with responsible enforcement of the hazardous materials transportation regulations.
Rankin’s speech introduced the idea of a “cooperative inspection model for PHMSA and its industry clients,” including container reconditioners and manufacturers. He said that presently, SISP is not well understood by many in the industry, but with a few changes, the program “could be expanded significantly and become an important part of PHMSA’s enforcement outreach effort.” Rankin believes that once the non-punitive site evaluations and information sharing aspects of the program are better understood by industry, participation in the program will rise.
Rankin noted RIPA believes strongly that Special Permits are one of the most important regulatory tools available to the Agency because they “…encourage product innovation while ensuring regulatory compliance, provide industry with a way to field test new technologies, and promote increased transportation efficiency and productivity. He said the RIPA has worked closely with PHMSA in the past few years to complete two important Special Permits; one allowing the use of reconditioned 10/8/10 steel drums and another that authorizes the transportation of IBCs containing small amounts of hazardous residue without DOT-shipping papers or placards.
“Neither of these Special Permits could have been finalized without a great deal of discussion, cooperation and trust,” noted Rankin. RIPA members "understand this fact and truly appreciate PHMSA’s efforts", he concluded.
“I was honored to have been asked by PHMSA to address the Conference and I hope that my presentation made clear that RIPA believes that working with the Agency to improve transportation safety is one of our highest priorities,” said Rankin.
|
|
|
RIPA New Members (2024)
New Canadian Reconditioner
Enviro Containers
5200 Blindman Drive,
Red Deer County, AB T4S 2M4
403-507-1777
Mr. Jerry Bechtold
www.envirocontainers.com
|
New Supplier Members
MilliporeSigma
6000 N Teutonia Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53209
414-553-1012
Mr. Peter Apostoluk, Packaging Engineering
www.milliporesigma.com
Progenitor Industries, LLC
7108 Clawson Ridge Ct.
Liberty Twp, OH 45011
614-547-9662
Mr. Tom DiCarlo, President
www.p-ind.com
|
|
RIPA Next Generation Development Program Launches
Have you heard about RIPA’s Next Generation Program? If not, here's what you should know.
This new program is aimed at younger members of the association, as well as those of any age who are new to the industry. “Our goal is to identify, educate, mentor and empower the next generation of industry leaders,” says RIPA Chair Eric Bernath.
Bernath hopes to launch the first Next Gen “class” early in 2025. “We are planning a great program for this first group, that will include a dinner, followed by a ½ day education program and a plant tour,” says Bernath. Participants will meet colleagues from around the country, learn about the association and the industry, visit a plant and then head home.
Bernath recalls that he learned a lot by visiting reconditioning facilities when he was coming into the industry, and he wants others to have the same experience.
If you or someone in your company would be a good candidate for the 2025 Next Gen class, download the Next Gen' form (HERE), fill out the application and send it to RIPA. This is an opportunity that should not be missed.
|
|
A Bit of History
Former Hershson Award winner, Elliot Pearlman, was cleaning out some old RIPA files the other day and found some wonderful memorabilia from long ago, which he kindly sent along to me for safekeeping in our RIPA history files.
The first thing that caught my eye was a Membership Directory from 1948. At that time, just a few years after the association was originally organized, RIPA was called National Barrel and Drum Association (NABADA) and the membership was divided into seven geographical regions. Five of the regions were composed of members operating in Canada and the eastern states, one represented mid-western companies and another represented firms doing business in the western U.S.
 Albert Colville, Arc Container Company, was President of NABADA and Phil Pearlman was Second Vice President. Izzy Levine, was the lead director in Region VII.
Quite a few current member companies were part of the Association at that time, including Roche Brothers Barrel and Drum Co., John H. Collins and Son, Penn Barrel, Atlanta Cooperage (now Advance Drum Service, Inc.), Harbison Brothers, Skolnik Industries and H. Levine Cooperage. And - get this – NABADA had just over 200 members!
|
|
TECHNICAL PAPER
Optimized Drum Reconditioning with TRI-SURE®’s Innovative SEALING COLLAR™
In the drum reconditioning industry, maintaining the integrity of drum covers after cleaning processes is a significant challenge. Standard reconditioning techniques such as furnace burn off and aqueous wash effectively remove contaminants but can lead to compromised drum covers as flange gaskets may have been impacted through the process, often necessitating the costly and environmentally impactful replacement of drum covers.
The Solution: TRI-SURE® SEALING COLLAR™
TRI-SURE® has engineered an innovative solution: the ® SEALING COLLAR™. This component allows reconditioning companies to reuse original drum covers, even after undergoing the rigorous cleaning and preparation. The SEALING COLLAR™ ensures that original drum components can be preserved and reused effectively after withstanding the high temperatures and chemical exposure inherent in reconditioning processes.
Key Benefits
• Optimal Resealing: The SEALING COLLAR™ ensures a secure and leak-proof reseal of original closure systems, preventing leakage and maintaining the high performance necessary for safe storage and transport of contents.
• Promotion of a Circular Economy: By enabling the reuse of steel drum covers and steel drums with side flanges, the SEALING COLLAR™ supports sustainability initiatives, reducing reliance on new steel production.
• Environmental Impact Reduction: Utilizing the SEALING COLLAR™ Achieves significant CO2 savings, ranging from 20.7% to 66.3% by minimizing the need for new drum covers, supporting a more eco-friendly reconditioning process.
• Ease of Application: Designed for user-friendly application, the SEALING COLLAR™ can be easily crimped onto the original drum flange using TRI-SURE® crimping tools.
• Simplified Reconditioning Process: Enhances the overall efficiency of drum reconditioning by providing a durable closure solution capable of withstanding the harsh conditions of high-temperature furnace burn off and chemical washes.
The TRI-SURE® SEALING COLLAR™ is an essential tool for drum reconditioning companies that prioritize safety, performance, and sustainability. By facilitating the reuse of original drum components, it not only ensures protection for hazardous and valuable contents but also promotes a more efficient and environmentally responsible reconditioning process. For further information, samples, or quotations, contact your Tri-Sure® Sales and Support Representative.
|
|
|
Your Ad HERE
Contact RIPA at 301-577-3786 or admin@ripaus.com
|
|
|
|
