Across several industries, there is a daily need to lift extraordinarily heavy items and materials. This is done through various methods such as vacuum lifting systems, magnetic lifting systems or more conventional lifting methods like using hooks, slings or chains. When the materials being lifted aren’t magnetic, vacuum lifting systems have several benefits that make it a preferred method for many projects.
Main Components
To get a better understanding of vacuum lifting systems, it helps to learn how they work and the components they are made from. One main component is the vacuum pump, which is a hydraulic or electric engine that is powered by a host machine. Then there are vacuum pads which are the units that come into contact with the materials being lifted. These pads are interchangeable, allowing them to be switched out to better lift certain materials. The vacuum reservoir and valve ensure that, in the event of a power failure, the system will continue to provide suction. These units also have systems that both visually and audibly provide alerts and warnings when an issue occurs.
How Vacuum Lifting Systems Work
Vacuum lifting systems work by the vacuum pump providing constant suction in its pressure reservoir. The operator will attach the vacuum lifter to a crane hook that lowers the vacuum lifting system to the load being moved. When the system is turned on, the vacuum pump pulls suction between the vacuum pad and the material being lifted until there is a complete seal. Once the suction is applied and sealed, the lifting arm can move the material to its destination. The vacuum seal persists until an operator uses the release function. The system is typically operated by a wireless remote control that matches with a receiver on the lifting system. This allows the operator to fulfill their duties safely, away from where a load could potentially drop.
Productivity and ROI
If you are using a vacuum lifting system, chances are that you work for a business that keeps a close eye on their bottom line. Compared to conventional methods of rigging balancing and moving heavy loads, vacuum lifting systems are more productive and have a higher return on your investment. The amount of safety precautions you need to take with traditional lifting methods are time consuming and require several operators to oversee the lift. Operators would need to climb on top of the load while others work on the ground attaching the load to the rig. Not to mention the downtime in between lifts detaching and reattaching rigs. Paying several employees to take on these tasks can put a dent in a business’ productivity and bottom line. Without the need for operators to attach loads by hand, a job will go faster, with less downtime and reduced payroll expenses.
Safety
Vacuum lifting systems are significantly safer than many other lifting methods. Operators do not need to climb around on loads attaching slings and chains. There are also fewer operators on the ground at risk of injury and they have both visual and audible alarms to warn about unsafe lifting conditions. There is also a lower risk of loads dropping unintentionally, as the powerful suction is more secure than hooks, slings, and chains which can easily come loose. Vacuum lifting systems can go a long way in protecting workers.
Versatility
When it comes to lifting systems, you want them to be able to work in as many situations as possible. The design of vacuum lifting systems allows them to get into hard to reach spots. Because the suction comes from above, they can also lift a load without displacing other loads next to it. Also, vacuum systems don’t require the loads to be magnetic, which greatly expands their versatility.
Quality Vacuum Lifting Systems
Regardless of the type of lifting system your business needs, Permadur Industries is here to help. Our staff can work with you to determine the best solution for your particular needs and will help educate and train your staff on the differences in the application and use of our equipment correctly, effectively, and safely. Our team of engineers can design and install our systems based on the specific needs of your company’s unique application. This process ensures that the product you purchase is designed specifically for your needs and you understand all the characteristics of our lifting equipment before you ever “flip the switch” and that our equipment is properly integrated into your work environment.
We are a proud American manufacturer of below-the-hook lifting equipment. We offer vacuum lifting systems as well as lifting magnets in bipolar, tripolar, and five polar orientations enabling us to tailor the design of the magnet system to your specific lifting needs. We are also here to support your needs year after year with maintenance after installation support. Contact us for more information.