To optimise the handling process at the customer’s pipe yard we designed a lifting solution which perfectly fits their situation. It is a second step of a bigger optimisation project. Last year we delivered the first Aerolift vacuum lifting device to this customer.
The customer in India is in the process of mechanising their pipe yard. Instead of hydraulic mobile cranes, which includes manual attachment and detachment, they invested in gantry cranes. The cranes will be provided with Aerolift vacuum lifting devices. This means the complete handling process is controlled by the crane operator. As a result, no one needs to be near the pipes to attach or detach, increasing the safety at the pipe yard tremendously.
The existing wire pulleys of the gantry cranes are integrated in the main frame of the vacuum lifting devices. This means the main frame can be directly attached to the crane wire pulleys, with the additional benefits of saving weight, height and costs. Also, three hooks are attached to the underside of the main frame. Whenever the suction pads are not attached, a standard lifting beam can be attached to the three hooks.
The vacuum lifting devices will be used to lift, bare and coated steel, pipes of different dimensions. 3 of the 4 lifting devices are identical. The one exception differs only in the suspension point and is intended to operate in combination with a larger crane. All lifting devices are able to lift one or two pipes. Additionally, it is possible adjust the suction pads in width, depending on the diameters of the pipes. Last but not least, the suction pad suspensions are provided with a safety release system. This system disables the possibility to release during transport.
