High Vacuum Lifting
High vacuum generating systems offer clients extra capacity handling options over the vacuum tube lifting range. Whether you want to transport loads horizontally, swivel by 90° or turn over by 180°, we have solutions available up to a 2T capacity. A single operator can handle loads effortlessly and the use of vacuum causes no damage to product surfaces, unlike other operations with slings, grippers or chains.
High vacuum systems work on a similar principal to vacuum tube lifters - a number of suction plates generate optimal sealing on the load surface and the built up pressure secures the load to the suction plates. One key difference from the vacuum tube lifter is the need for an independent hoisting device for example an electric or pneumatic hoist or air balancer to enable the load and vacuum system to be transported around the working environment, usually suspended from a slewing jib crane or overhead crane.
High vacuum gripping systems are safe and reliable. A vacuum reservoir and a non-return valve prevent air loss via the vacuum pump. A vacuum store is also built-up in case of a power failure, and all lifters are fitted with visual gauges that instantly signal a decrease in vacuum or a power failure. Additional acoustic or optical warning alarms are also available on request.
Potential applications include:
- steel sheet handling
- steel wound coil lifting
- wooden sheets and board or panel handling
- wooden planks and beam lifting
- refractory applications including stone, marble, granite block lifting
Many loads which may have required several operators or the use of fork lift trucks can now be handled easily and safely by a single person.
1. Main frame/body
The main framework includes the vacuum reservoir, which maintains a safe vacuum level in electrical power failure cases. Also mounted on the main framework are the lifting eye, safety devices e.g. audible alarm and other electronic components.
2. Operator handles
Operator handles are supplied to allow easy movement of the vacuum device and load in a safe and ergonomically friendly manner.
3. Vacuum generator
The vacuum generator will be sized for your application. Porous surfaces i.e. loads which allow a certain amount of air leakage, may require a more powerful vacuum generator.
4. Main beam and vacuum distributor
The main beam and suction system (i.e. suction pads, their mountings and the crossbeams) is again sized for the application or product load requirements. The vacuum is supplied via a distributor. The suction pads are selected according to the surface finish of the load being handled or the environmental demands. A huge range of suction pads and seal types are available for many varied applications. Suction pad mountings may be rigid, articulated or spring-loaded and articulated.
5. Hoisting mechanism
Palamatic works in partnership with leading suppliers of electric and pneumatic hoists and air balancers, and we have the experience to combine the two devices to create an ergonomically friendly lifting solution to your manual handling problems.
6. Crane Suspension Options
In most cases Palamatic will be pleased to supply a suitable mounting/suspension gantry i.e. slewing jib crane or overhead crane. A wide range of jib sizes, mounting options, SWL capacities and slewing ranges allows us to select of the best crane to suit your process.
Overhead cranes or gantry track frameworks of many sizes can be suspended from existing roof beams* or independently on new steelwork. We recommend that crane widths do not exceed 6m, but overall crane length can run the entire length of your building*.
* both cases dependent of site restrictions and building suitability, which are the clients responsibility.
