Schmalz’s Crane Systems embrace functionality and digitisation through control system integration and swivel

transitioned from steel to Around 15 years ago, Schmalz aluminium, developing a modular system based on aluminium profiles. This system is designed to combine seamlessly with vacuum tube lifters, vacuum lifting devices, and chain hoists. Consultants configure a weight, load, and cost-optimised crane system by selecting five extruded aluminium profiles with hollow chambers to meet user needs.

The range of crane systems for ergonomic material handling is diverse, catering to various application scenarios. Suspension and gantry crane systems provide large working areas and carry loads up to 1,200 kg. Slewing cranes offer space-saving options by attaching to existing hall pillars or walls, and if needed, can be securely anchored to the floor for loads up to 1,000 kg. Unique solutions enable manoeuvring around obstacles or utilising lower spaces with vacuum tube lifters.

Crane systems share a modular design, allowing for flexible integration. Additionally, they offer more than extended reach. Made of aluminium, they provide smooth operation, reducing startup and movement effort by 60 percent compared to steel alternatives. This advantage is achieved through a favourable ratio of dead weight to payload and special low-friction rollers.

Advantages of Modular Crane Systems The modular design of Schmalz’s crane systems allows for efficient on-site spare parts replacement and easy system expansion. Michael Schlaich, Business Development Head at Schmalz India Pvt. Ltd explains the benefits of these systems below.

Safety and Reliability: All Schmalz systems undergo rigorous independent strength calculations for their load-bearing components, ensuring optimal safety and reliability during operation. These thorough tests guarantee that the crane systems can confidently handle their designated loads.

270 Degrees Ergonomics: The column-mounted slewing crane, a highly sought-after variant, offers 270-degree ergonomics without requiring a wall or ceiling. The version with a crane column and mobile base plate provides flexible implementation, allowing adjustments with the assistance of a forklift truck to accommodate changes in the facility’s layout.

Specialised Solutions: Schmalz offers specialised crane variations to address specific challenges. The aluminium flat boom variant, introduced in 2018, enables the use of vacuum tube lifters even in lower spaces. The new Schmalz V-Chain energy supply system optimises space utilisation by incorporating the vacuum supply hose package into a drag chain, eliminating hanging loops and allowing safe passage for forklift trucks under the boom. In scenarios with obstacles or difficult-to-reach work areas, the knuckle boom or telescopic boom options come into play. Both special cranes are now available as part of the modular system, enabling individual crane configurations and providing even greater flexibility in handling solutions.

Under the Ceiling: Schmalz designs portal or suspension cranes to handle higher loads or cover larger working areas. These systems often accommodate multiple suspended vacuum lifters, enabling one rail system to serve multiple workplaces. Additionally, an optional electric travel drive supports users in moving and positioning loads weighing up to 800 kilograms in suspension crane systems. Soft starts and stops contribute to quiet operation and reduce vibrations.

While Schmalz is renowned for its smart vacuum systems, their crane systems have more practical functionality. However, there are points of contact with digitisation, such as including a swivel angle limiter with process monitoring. A two-channel switch with a roller lever is mounted on the side of the crane jib, allowing communication with the control system of the surrounding plant. This integration enables the release or blocking of travel paths, processing steps, and machines. Although digitisation is more prominent in vacuum handling systems, Schlaich acknowledges that the crane sector also participates in digitalisation to a lesser extent. The primary paradigm shift is occurring through the various vacuum handling systems.

For more details, visit: https://www.schmalz.com/en-in/