Hardened steel, which is used in high wear areas like base edges, doesn't like sudden changes. The same properties that make the steel wear better can also make it brittle. Because of this it needs to be carefully, and slowly, brought up to temperature prior to welding. Attention to detail is something we take pride-in and pre-heat is no exception.

To control this process we use a number of methods; heat sensitive grease pencils, infrared heat sensors and heating blankets. Wait, did I just say heating blankets? Yup! Imagine the same technology you might use in bed on your aching back after an ill-advised round on the mechanical bull at the local country bar... but on steroids. This heating blanket is used on Craig base edges to bring them up to as much as 392 degrees Fahrenheit (200 Celsius), depending on material, prior to having their adapters installed ensuring that you get the strongest and most durable product possible.

Your buckets need to work all day and all night against the toughest conditions so when you're buying your next attachment, make sure it's been built-right, fit right, the Craig way. Oh, and leave the mechanical bull to the cowboys - you look more like a disco guy anyway.

What's red, yellow, blue and MASSIVE all over? The Craig EXB-MASS bucket, that's what! Mega Armour Severe Service is this bucket's designation and it's showcasing in the Craig booth on this year's tradeshow circuit. This line of buckets is the result of extensive engineering and testing which has created the hardest working buckets on the market today. Look closely and you'll see that there are a number of Craig exclusive features in the armour package including bolt-on edge protectors and unique puddle welded side runners.

Craig is a HARDOX In My Body© approved manufacturer which means we choose to use only the best steel in our buckets. To illustrate this, we chose to paint the show bucket multiple colours to call out the different grades of steel that make it so robust. In the photo you'll see that the hook-up, made from G40, is grey. The box section, made from Weldox 100, is orange. The side cutters are red Hardox 400 and the majority of the bucket is tough wearing yellow Hardox 450. Finishing off the package are the blue cast components. If you work in rock, shale or other high impact abrasion environments you owe it to yourself to check out the new Craig EXB-MASS.

Friday, April 13^th and Saturday, April 14^th we will be in Montreal, Quebec at the Expo Grand Travaux! If you're in the area, make sure to stop by and check out our booth (booth #6022). We will be showcasing the new MASS bucket, the new Craig Commander 1075 plow and more!