The fine art of panel handling

Many sheet metal processing companies are slowly reaching their limits when it comes to handling sheets safely and in a space-saving manner. euroTECH, the specialist for vacuum, lifting and transport technology, provides the solution: together with the company Storemaster, the professionals have developed a flat vacuum handling device for heavy-duty sheet metal storage.

When Dieter Paul, owner of Storemaster, started looking for a suitable lifting device, it quickly became clear that he needed a special solution for his "MasterTower" sheet metal storage system. This was because the sheet metal panels needed to be stored and removed quickly and safely, even in the uppermost storage areas, without a ladder and by just one person. The new lifting device also needed to be very flat in order to make optimum use of the space.

He found what he was looking for at euroTECH. The professionals from the Swabian Alb were able to help with a lifting device from the eT-Hover product family. The eT-Hover panel was modified to meet the wishes and requirements in a very short space of time. The new, flat version is just 350 mm high.

All of the appliance's functions are controlled via an ergonomic operating handle; a thumb paddle triggers the up and down movement and suction and ventilation can be activated at the touch of a button. The telescopic guide arm, which can be bent electrically in steps of 22.5°, is also brought into an ergonomically optimal operating position via the operating handle without any special effort. In this way, the operator can always reach the bottom and top drawers from a comfortable standing position without bending or stretching. A center of gravity compensation system is also part of the standard equipment.

The ability to control integrated crane systems from the same operating handle, as well as the option of a battery-powered version that is independent of the mains supply, demonstrate particular innovative potential.

The circulating spiral cable has a dual function: it supplies power and controls the chain hoist. The chain guide within the spiral cable is designed to prevent the chain and cable from becoming entangled.

A jogging function was installed at the explicit request of the customer. This device is used to separate double sheets in order to separate oiled or adhesive sheets quickly and easily. This prevents the risk of accidents caused by uncontrolled double sheet removal. 

The vacuum is generated by a vacuum pump with attached non-return valve, vacuum reservoir and two solenoid valves. These control the suction and ventilation. A blow-off device is installed for quick release of the load. All suction cups can be moved on the cross beams and can be individually shut off via a ball valve. The cross beams are also adjustable. This allows the lifting device to be adapted to the corresponding panel sizes.

The eT hover panel lifts small, medium and large-sized sheets up to 4 x 2 meters and a weight of up to
750 kg. But it can also be used to handle other vacuum-tight panels made of wood, plastic, stone, etc. Suction pads in special designs also adapt to problematic surface structures with a secure grip. 

Safety first!

The lifting device is built in accordance with DIN EN 13155. It has several safety and warning devices to prevent operating errors and hazards: A built-in vacuum gauge with red/green range, a red and green signal lamp, an acoustic signal transmitter and a two-hand control for venting. The function of the electronic warning device is guaranteed even in the event of a power failure!

Many advantages

The modified eT-Hover-panel lifting device impresses with its easy handling and particularly flat design. It therefore offers optimum space utilization. The device is also very user-friendly, as all functions are controlled directly and centrally via the operating handle.

Sustainable cooperation

The eT-Hover-panel is the result of cooperation between the companies euroTECH and Storemaster. A well-coordinated team of technicians and designers designed and planned the flat vacuum handling device for heavy-duty sheet metal storage systems. The professionals developed the customized lifting device based on the customer's specific requirements and with detailed know-how.

"This means we are ideally equipped for the future," says a delighted Dieter Paul, owner of Storemaster. He adds with satisfaction: "We were able to implement our dream project within a very short space of time, which not only saves us time but also considerable costs."

The long-term cooperation has clearly shown how synergies from different sectors can be used effectively. And the euroTECH employees are naturally also very proud of this.

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