In industries where high precision, safety, and high efficiency are prime, the selection of a proper picking solution for sheet metal is crucial. In traditional sheet metal handling, manual work, slings, hooks, clamps, and magnetic lifters have been used. Although these methods are tested and true, they have a wide range of limitations. Contrary, modern vacuum lifters for sheet metal have altered the way that industries handle lifting and moving metal sheets.
Traditional Lifting Methods: Limitations and Risks
The traditional methods of sheet metal lifting are physical work and mechanical gears such as chains, clamps, and forklifts. Such approaches usually use many workers and entail a higher risk of injury because of sharp edges or bulky items. Furthermore, manual handling can result in an inconsistent placement that causes product damages and slower turnarounds.
Magnetic lifters are also slightly advanced; however, they are restricted by the type of material that they can pick (mostly ferrous metals), and are dangerous when the power fails or surfaces are not clean. Forklifts and cranes provide additional strength but lack the precision of careful placement, and may take up a lot of space.
Enter Vacuum Technology
The use of vacuum sheet metal lifter systems has come with a lot of benefits to industries that handle large and fragile sheet metal parts. These lifters use suction pads which are connected to a vacuum pump and attach them to the metal surface, allowing non-damaging handling, safety. A vacuum lifter for sheet metal provides more safety due to the minimization of human involvement and the possibility of accidents at work.
Also, vacuum lifters provide increased productivity, enabling a faster lifting and placement with one operative. Even suction distribution takes care to not warp or damage the surface of the sheet, which makes it particularly suited for industries such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing where precision is needed.
Which Is Better?
Although the old-fashioned lifting techniques have their niche, particularly in low-volume or harsh conditions, they are not in the efficiency, safety, and preservation of material. Vacuum lifters for sheet metal are evidently superior to the old methods in high-volume production, or if the quality or the safety of the workers is the main concern.
In sum, for the firms that want to update their operations and enhance safety standards, the purchase of a vacuum sheet metal lifter is a smart investment move. It not only reduces the risks but increases the productivity and makes sure that the valuable materials are well handled.
For companies that are looking to improve their material handling process, Fenatek offers state-of-the-art vacuum sheet metal lifter solutions based on specific needs. Check out their offerings and look for the best for your operation.