Pierce Manufacturing Co. - Experts & Thought Leaders

Pierce Manufacturing Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation business, announced a new round of major facility advancements across its Appleton, Wisconsin, manufacturing operations. Building on a multi-year modernization initiative launched in 2022, and the company’s long history of focusing on innovation and reinvestment, these strategic investments are designed to expand production capacity which will enable faster delivery of high-quality fire apparatus to fire departments. Pierce’s long-term commitment to quality The advancements are part of more than $150 million Pierce is investing across manufacturing facilities in Wisconsin, Florida, and Tennessee to increase production levels and reduce industry-wide lead times.  With approximately $60 million already invested, these newest additions build on steady progress to increase manufacturing capacity and strengthen Pierce’s long-term commitment to quality and innovation through continued workforce growth and the integration of advanced robotics and fabrication technologies. Pierce’s investments over the past several years have included expanding its manufacturing space by 28%, adding 500,000 square feet of facility space, and hiring 800 new American workers. Delivering fire apparatus to firehouses “These technologies reflect our dedication to continuous improvement and safety, as well as our commitment to delivering fire apparatus to firehouses faster while maintaining the same exceptional level of quality that defines our products,” said Mike Pack, Oshkosh Corporation’s Executive Vice President and President, Vocational.  “We have already reduced lead times by over three months from their peak. With these sustained investments, we are continuing to work to return to pre-pandemic lead times." Reshaping fabrication and assembly processes Within Pierce’s production facility campus in Appleton, Wisconsin, new automation and precision technologies are reshaping fabrication and assembly processes. Each investment is designed to enhance quality, increase production flow, reduce manual touchpoints, and improve safety for team members. Newest investments The newest investments include: A Penta 30K laser, one of only two in the United States, capable of cutting up to two inches of steel with beveled edges that eliminates manual sanding, and an automated panel bender that performs multiple bends in a fraction of the time required by traditional presses. A semi-automated folding machine that allows a single operator to perform complex bends safely and efficiently, automated rail welding systems that reduce welding time by up to two-thirds, and hand-held laser welding technology that delivers precise results with minimal material warpage. Buffing robots and an AI-enabled sanding system, which prepares metal panels for paint with improved consistency and efficiency. A 26,000 square foot paint facility expansion in Appleton that is nearing completion, featuring new advanced paint booths and curing ovens which boost capacity and ensure each fire truck receives a flawless finish. Relocation of the manufacturing release line (MRL) to improve production flow and quality control, along with modernization of the parts facility to centralize warehousing. These expansions enabled the cab and chassis lines to be relocated and reformatted within a larger 224,000 square foot space, freeing critical manufacturing capacity and further enhancing efficiency and quality. Standard for safety, performance, and innovation in fire apparatus “The investments across our operations reflect a unified focus on quality, efficiency, innovation and reducing lead times for critical fire apparatus for communities throughout the United States,” said Pack. “Every new machine, expansion, and workflow improvement enables us to deliver fire apparatus faster and with the exceptional craftsmanship customers expect from Pierce.” With advanced automation, modernized facilities, and expanded teams, Pierce Manufacturing continues to set the standard for safety, performance, and innovation in fire apparatus manufacturing.

Pierce Manufacturing Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation business, announced now it has delivered its 4,000th Pierce Ultimate Configuration (PUC™) Pump. The milestone order and delivery, purchased through Pierce dealer Hughes Fire Equipment, goes into service with the Clark County Fire Department (CCFD) in Nevada. Pierce’s PUC pump, first introduced in 2007, redefined traditional fire apparatus design by eliminating the need for a pumphouse. Available on pumpers, rescue pumpers, tankers, and aerials, the PUC water pump configuration streamlines vehicle layout to maximize space for equipment and simplify operation, while maintaining exceptional pump, foam, and water delivery performance. PUC pump’s evolution “When we introduced the PUC pump, our goal was simple: listen to firefighters and design an apparatus that makes their jobs safer and more efficient,” said John Schultz, vice president and general manager – pumper products, Pierce Manufacturing. “To see it reach 4,000 deliveries nearly two decades later speaks to the trust fire departments place in Pierce and the dedication of the team members who have shaped the PUC pump’s evolution over the years.” Wildland and technical rescue operations The CCFD serves one of the largest and most diverse response areas in the nation, spanning approximately 8,000 square miles throughout unincorporated Clark County, Nevada. CCFD’s jurisdiction includes the world-famous Las Vegas Strip, McCarran International Airport, major resorts, and large-scale entertainment venues, as well as rural desert terrain and recreation areas such as Red Rock Canyon and Lake Mead National Recreation Area. With more than 1,400 personnel operating from dozens of strategically located stations, the department responds to a wide range of emergencies, from high-rise fires and hazardous materials incidents to wildland and technical rescue operations. CCFD’s need for durable, versatile apparatus capable of performing reliably across extreme conditions make the Pierce PUC Pumper an ideal configuration. Three identical Pierce Velocity® PUC Pumpers The full delivery includes three identical Pierce Velocity® PUC Pumpers featuring: Velocity custom chassis PACCAR MX-13 510 hp engine with 1,850 lb-ft torque PUC 1500 GPM pump 750-gallon water tank TAK-4® Independent Front Suspension PUC Pumper 189” body design Frontal impact protection Extreme Duty Air Conditioning Package Command Zone TM Advanced Electronics System HAAS Collision Mitigation System ClearSky Intelligence™ Connected Solutions System Enclosed pump operator’s panel configuration Each apparatus is engineered to deliver excellent maneuverability and simplified pump operations; attributes that are critical for the wide-ranging urban and rural environments Clark County firefighters encounter daily. The enclosed pump operator’s panel configuration also helps control exposure to harsh environmental elements and minimizes maintenance requirements, enhancing operational efficiency. PUC Pump delivery “Hughes Fire Equipment and the Clark County Fire Department share a long-standing relationship rooted in collaboration and mutual commitment to public safety,” said Scott Olmos, sales representative, Hughes Fire Equipment. “Reaching the 4,000th PUC Pump milestone is an achievement we’re honored to celebrate alongside a department that represents excellence in service and readiness. Our team takes pride in supporting their mission with apparatus built for reliability, safety, and innovation.” Pierce’s 4,000th PUC Pump delivery demonstrates the continued trust fire departments place in the PUC’s design to simplify operations, enhance safety, and improve performance.

Oshkosh Airport Products, a division of Pierce Manufacturing Inc. and an Oshkosh Corporation business, announced Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) has placed an order for an Oshkosh Striker 6x6 Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) vehicle. The vehicle will join the airport’s fully Oshkosh-equipped ARFF fleet and continue a trusted partnership which began more than two decades ago.  Guadalajara International Airport first acquired an Oshkosh ARFF in 2002 and operates a robust fleet which includes a Striker 6x6 with a Snozzle High Reach Extendable Turret (HRET), a Striker 4x4, a Striker 4x4 with a Snozzle HRET, and a Striker 6x6. The airport selected Oshkosh Airport Products again based on proven product reliability, advanced technology, and the strong local support provided by Oshkosh Airport Product’s dealer, ATEPSA (Autobuses Especializados S.A. de C.V.). Operational safety and uninterrupted service “Operational safety and uninterrupted service are essential for an airport connecting millions of passengers across Mexico and beyond,” said Robert Colon, Associate Manager International Sales at Oshkosh Airport Products. He adds, “The new Striker 6x6 ensures Guadalajara is prepared to respond to complex emergencies across its airport grounds and surrounding terrain. We are proud to continue supporting this airport with vehicles embodying reliability, performance, and innovation.” Features of the Striker 6x6 ARFF vehicle include: Scania DC16, 670 HP engine for power and reliability Hydraulic 10kW electric generator for powering mission-critical systems independent of external sources Oshkosh Eco-EFP foam system for precise, environmentally responsible foam measurement and delivery Two preconnected handlines, regulated for versatile firefighting operations Low attack bumper turret (1,250 GPM) with Hydrochem Nozzle and roof turret (1,250 GPM) for high-performance firefighting Dual agent hose reel and air hose reel mounted inside the compartment Electric cord reel for extended operational capabilities Delivery of the Striker 6x6 Delivery of the Striker 6x6 is scheduled for December 2025, with on-site commissioning and operator training led by Oshkosh Airport Products’ International Field Service Representatives. “ATEPSA has proudly represented Oshkosh in Mexico for over two decades, and we are thrilled to support Guadalajara International Airport with this new Striker ARFF,” said Eduardo Palacio Hasson, General Manager/President of ATEPSA, adding “Our close proximity to the airport and expanded service facilities in Guadalajara ensure we can deliver the immediate support and spare parts necessary to keep these vehicles mission ready.”

The adoption of electric fire apparatus is accelerating their footprint in the industry. Fire departments from Los Angeles to Madison, Wis., from Portland, Ore., to Mesa, Ariz., have embraced the technology of electric and hybrid vehicles in the fire industry and are demonstrating the practical capabilities of this new generation of technology for the fire service. Sustainable commitment More municipalities worldwide are committing to sustainability and climate goals. Furthermore, truck producers in general are converting to electric drive systems. In the future, there will be fewer chassis available with conventional drivelines, making it necessary for fire trucks to go electric. Electric fire apparatus An electric fire engine is an innovative tool that will help reduce noise and harmful diesel emissions Electric fire apparatus made a big splash at recent trade shows, notably FDIC International in the United States and INTERSCHUTZ in Germany. An electric fire engine is an innovative tool that will help reduce noise and harmful diesel emissions and provide a flexible tool for firefighting and rescue operations from a technologically advanced platform. At INTERSCHUTZ, Rosenbauer presented a complete range of electric emergency vehicles, from municipal fire trucks including fully electric aerial ladders to Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicles. fully electric fire truck A fully electric fire truck currently going into service in Los Angeles is the result of 10 years of research and development, with the Los Angeles City Fire Department working closely with Rosenbauer America to address the challenges and obstacles of deploying the truck within the city’s system. Two more Rosenbauer electric trucks are being demonstrated in fire departments in the U.S. and Canada, and another truck is coming next year. Rosenbauer projects that half of all vehicles they deliver to fire departments should be electrified by 2030. Addressing the issues with an electric truck Training and operations must be considered when replacing a traditional apparatus with a new electric truck Issues such as training and operations must be considered when replacing a traditional apparatus with a new electric truck. One change is more space available on the electric truck for equipment storage, says Rosenbauer. The City of Madison, Wis., Fire Department is deploying an Enforcer Volterra Pumper from Pierce Manufacturing Inc. The apparatus uses an “electro-mechanical infinitely variable transmission” that can switch imperceptibly between the electric and diesel modes. Fine-tuning the design The Volterra pumper will work on the front lines at Station 8, the city’s busiest fire station. Madison Fire Department worked with Pierce to “fine-tune” the design. The department seeks to have their electric trucks “mimic” the operation of the older trucks. In Madison, the city’s fleet manager is driving a push toward electrification throughout the vehicles used by the city; the Pierce apparatus enables the fire department to deliver on that expectation. The city anticipates buying two or three additional electric fire trucks in the next year or so. E-One Vector fire truck Additional features include a battery storage solution that offers a safer, lower center of gravity and regenerative braking EV Fire Group announced the all-electric E-One Vector fire truck last August and debuted it in multiple presentations on the FDIC International show floor in April 2022. The customizable Vector features a long electric pumping duration that allows four hose lines to be used for four hours on a single charge. Additional features include a battery storage solution that offers a safer, lower center of gravity and regenerative braking. cost-savings and efficiency Mesa, Ariz., is the first city to order the Vector, with delivery expected this year. The rig supports the City of Mesa’s Climate Action Plan, to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. They expect the new rig will demonstrate potential cost-savings and efficiency of electric vehicles throughout city operations. In developing Vector, REV Fire Group worked closely with customers to identify their needs and fine-tune the product based on feedback. Volterra platform Oshkosh provides a Volterra platform for a hybrid ARFF vehicle, which is debuting at airports Pierce Manufacturing and Oshkosh Airport combined efforts to introduce the Volterra platform of vehicles for the fire and emergency market. Oshkosh provides a Volterra platform for a hybrid Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicle, which is debuting at airports across the United States. Innovative fire suppression technology The hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) meets the emergency response needs among airports. The first Striker ARFF deployment is at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Available on 4x4 and 6x6 chassis platforms, the Striker Volterra delivers superior chassis performance, advanced safety systems, innovative fire suppression technology, reliability, and durability.

Back in Indianapolis for the first time since 2019, FDIC International 2021 offered a full slate of conference sessions, hands-on training and equipment exhibitions. Attendance was down, but everyone appeared happy to be back at the show, after cancellations and delay caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Masking compliance was low, despite continuing concerns about COVID-19 and the Delta variant. There was little social distancing. In many respects, the show seemed back to normal. A highlight of the event was the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s (NFFF) 9/11 Stair Climb. It’s a way for attendees to honor and remember those in the fire service community, who gave their lives in the 9/11 tragedy. Hundreds of FDIC participants paid tribute by climbing or walking the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center. MSA’s LUNAR hand-held device on display As always, safety was a huge theme at the FDIC exhibition, including development in hand-held tools As always, safety was a huge theme at the FDIC exhibition, including development in hand-held tools. MSA Safety displayed the new LUNAR hand-held device that helps keep firefighting teams connected, combining direction and distance information with thermal imaging to help find separated teammates and decrease response time. LUNAR uses cloud technology to increase fire-scene management capabilities for incident commanders. LUNAR can be used as a stand-alone device or as part of an MSA SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus) system. Thermal imaging with edge detection identifies hot spots and ventilation points, so as to simplify navigation through low-visibility environments. Tethered drone and Reveal FirePRO X thermal camera FotoKite (Perspective Robotics AG), which has a joint development agreement with MSA Safety, featured a tethered drone that hovers over the site of an emergency, in order to provide networking capabilities through the tether for better connectivity. Seek Thermal offers the ‘smallest and lightest’ thermal imaging camera, available for US$ 799 and seeks to bring the benefits of thermal technology to every position on the fire team. The Reveal FirePRO X can now be charged using a four-station charging dock priced at US$ 399. The compact size makes the FirePRO X easy to carry and manage, while its high resolution and fast frame rate ensure superior images. Teledyne gas detection systems exhibited Teledyne displayed a range of gas detection systems, starting with the simple Protégé ZM carbon monoxide meter that can clip onto pockets, helmets, and EMS bags. A new product is the Gas Laser, a hand-held device that can quickly scan common venting points from a safe distance, in order to identify the presence of dangerous explosive gas. Teledyne recently acquired FLIR and the combined companies will provide a spectrum of imaging technologies and products spanning X-ray through infrared and from components to complete imaging systems. FDIC International’s Innovation Hub focused on new technologies coming to the fire service Innovation Hub FDIC International’s Innovation Hub focused on new technologies coming to the fire service, featured in a presentation theater on the show floor. Leading the initiative was SafeTech, a College Station, Texas-based non-profit organization, whose mission is to bring new technologies to first responders and armed forces. One featured company was Tracks North America, which provides unmanned vehicles with fork-lift capabilities. Another was Infysort, which makes superabsorbent pellets – ‘hyper-blown polypropylene sorbent nanomaterial’ that can absorb 50 to 60 times its weight in oil. Hale Products SAM control system HURST Jaws of Life demonstrated eDRAULIC 3.0, a new underwater power extrication tool The SAM control system, by Hale Products, is gaining in popularity, offering computerized/integrated water flow controls that manage a fire truck’s pump, tank, intakes and discharges using touch-screen display for simplified interface. The new SAM Smart Nozzle allows firemen to control flow from the end of the fire hose. HURST Jaws of Life demonstrated eDRAULIC 3.0, a new underwater power extrication tool that can withstand salt water. The Lifeline Firehose provides a source of continuous breathable air coming from the nozzle of a fire hose. The patented coupler design enables the continuous air supply, which can also be used to power air tools. Seeking to help small and medium fire departments replace paper documentation, incident management systems offer low-cost digitization. Environmental awareness From Rosenbauer A topic among fire apparatus companies is idle reduction systems designed to shut off the main engine in a fire apparatus when not needed, eliminating loud diesel engine noise and exhaust, while maintaining power for lighting and air conditioning, for example. It is a reflection of growing environmental concerns among fire manufacturers. For example, Rosenbauer’s Green Star system makes idle reduction easy, using electronic controls to shut down the chassis engine on-scene (if the fire pump is not engaged or no aerial operations under way), and starting a diesel-driven Auxiliary Power Unit (APU). Pierce Volterra zero-emissions pumpers The first Pierce Volterra zero-emissions pumper has been placed in service in Madison Pierce launched their Volterra platform of electric vehicles. The first Pierce Volterra zero-emissions pumper has been placed in service in Madison, Wisconsin. At FDIC International 2021, the Pierce booth included an electric vehicle technology kiosk and took attendees through the electric fire truck’s attributes. CMC Rescue Rope and Harness Systems CMC Rescue Inc. demonstrated rope and harness systems for rescue operations, including special duffle bags and access packs for easy transport of harnesses. The CMC Clutch is now available in 13 mm and 11 mm models, for hauling, lowering, ascending, descending, belaying and deploying twin-tension rope systems. The CMC Triskelion 10-foot tripod features rapid deployment, for example, over a hole where a rescue is taking place and is certified to NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) standards.

Local governments in the U.S. are embracing electric and hybrid vehicles in a big way, and many states have implemented incentives to promote adoption of the futuristic technologies. However, fire department vehicles and apparatus are yet to embrace the transition, largely because vehicles were not available that both meet the needs of firefighters and provide environmental advantages. However, fire vehicle technology is farther along the electric and hybrid path than some people realize. Electric and hybrid vehicles for the fire service are making their way into the market and may be deployed soon in a neighborhood near you. Zero-Emissions pumper Oshkosh Corp., which includes Pierce Manufacturing, has introduced the Volterra platform of electric vehicles for the fire and emergency market. The first Pierce Volterra zero-emissions pumper has been placed in service with the Madison, Wis., Fire Department, making it the first electric fire truck in service in North America. The Volterra pumper is serving front-line duty at Station 8, the City of Madison’s busiest fire station. The department is made up of 14 fire stations serving 100 square miles and a population of more than 250,000. The Volterra electric vehicle configuration weighs 42,000 lbs., seats six, has a 1500 GPM single-stage pump, 500-gallon water tank, 150 cu ft of compartmentation plus ladder storage, and a hose capacity of 1000 feet of 5-in hose. Pierce Manufacturing and Oshkosh Airport Products have introduced the Volterra™ platform of electric vehicles for the fire and emergency market Infinitely variable transmission An Oshkosh parallel-electric drivetrain with an electro-mechanical infinitely variable transmission allows zero-emissions operation when powered by onboard batteries. An internal combustion engine provides uninterrupted power to the pumping system or drive system. The first Striker ARFF will be delivered to the Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport Fire Department Oshkosh also provides a Volterra platform for a hybrid Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicle, which is debuting at airports across the United States. The hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) meets the growing emergency response needs among airports of all sizes in an environmentally conscious way. Firefighters will be able to experience the technology first-hand. The first Striker ARFF will be delivered to the Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) Fire Department in late summer 2021. Advanced safety systems Available on a 4x4 and 6x6 chassis platforms, the Striker Volterra performance hybrid delivers superior chassis performance, advanced safety systems, innovative fire suppression technology, reliability and durability. In April, Rosenbauer America’s Revolutionary Technology (RT) concept truck made its national debut in Washington, D.C., displayed for members of the Senate and firefighters based on the district. The viewing was held as Congress considers an infrastructure and jobs plan. “The Rosenbauer RT is the fire truck of the future,” says John Slawson, CEO and President of Rosenbauer America. “Build from the ground up using advanced materials and technologies, the RT is the safest fire truck on the roads today – for firefighters, for communities and for the environment.” The fully electric apparatus features a high level of safety, excellent driving dynamics and maneuverability and is fully networked. Rosenbauer's Revolutionary Technology (RT) fully electric fire truck visits Engine 3 in Washington, D.C. Auxiliary equipment chargers The RT’s electric drive is powerful and noise emission-free. The electric drive train ensures that almost no fuel is combusted while driving. Lighting and auxiliary equipment chargers are also powered by the batteries. A local power grid can be created with up to 14 kW operated simultaneously via the power outlet. A built-in range extender (REX) comprises a small diesel engine powering a large generator Conceived as a multi-purpose vehicle, the RT is a pumper first and foremost, a connected mobile command unit, and a vehicle for assistance in wildland fires. A built-in range extender (REX) comprises a small diesel engine powering a large generator. Volvo Penta developed the electric driveline for Rosenbauer’s RT fire truck, which is also being tested in fire departments in Berlin, Amsterdam and Dubai. Pioneering electric drivelines “After many years of successful collaboration with Rosenbauer, we are proud to be pioneering electric drivelines and partnering with them on this revolutionary project,” says Paul Jansson, Chief Product Manager at Volvo Penta. “This is our first industrial OEM partnership in the area of electromobility, and it’s a big step toward creating a new product platform of the future.” The new fire truck aims to respond to global megatrends such as climate change, shifting demographics and urbanization – and their impact on the work of fire departments.  Firefighters responding to a call need a vehicle capable of high speed, rapid acceleration hard braking and maneuverability.