Maritime Industry Roundup: Safer Crates, Battery Supply Chain Boost

## Safer Crate Assembly with Nail-Gun-Free Systems UFP Packaging, a leading industrial packaging provider, has announced two new crate systems engineered for nail-gun-free assembly. The 'Slot-Lock' and 'Clamp-Lock 100' crates expand the company's pneumatic-free product portfolio, which also includes the U-Loc 200 system introduced last year. 'Nail guns can pose serious safety risks on the job site,' said UFP Packaging's VP of Engineering. 'Our new crate designs eliminate the need for nail guns, providing a safer, more efficient assembly process for our customers.' The new crate systems use specialized slots, tabs, and clamps to securely assemble crates without the use of nail guns or other power tools. This reduces the risk of workplace injuries while also streamlining the packaging workflow. According to gCaptain, the move towards nail-gun-free packaging aligns with broader industry trends focused on improving worker safety and operational efficiency in maritime supply chains. ## Strengthening U.S. Battery Materials Supply Chain In other news, Inlyte Energy has announced a new collaboration with Ervin Industries, a century-old American manufacturer, to bolster the domestic energy storage supply chain. The partnership will combine Inlyte's iron-sodium battery technology with Ervin's manufacturing capabilities to produce critical battery materials in the United States. This aims to reduce reliance on overseas suppliers and strengthen the resilience of the U.S. battery supply chain. 'Securing a robust domestic supply of battery materials is crucial for the maritime industry's transition to electric and hybrid propulsion,' said the CEO of Inlyte Energy. 'This collaboration with Ervin helps advance that goal while supporting American manufacturing jobs.' The Maritime Executive reports that the move comes as the Biden administration has prioritized boosting U.S. production of critical minerals and components for clean energy technologies.