In the previous blog, we have mentioned many times that the good partner of the laser cutting machine is our excellent Roll-Out Sheet Metal Rack. However, our racks with laser cutting machines are still a fly in the ointment. The missing link is the equipment to move the steel plates. Only in this way can it be more convenient and fast in the transportation process. Today, I will introduce in detail the equipment and methods for handling sheet metal and taking sheet metal, taking the Roll-Out Sheet Metal Rack as an example.
Three ways to move steel plate bundles onto rack
1. Crane Plus Lifting Chain with Hooks
Crane Plus Lifting Chain with Hooks is a common and effective way of handling. In this way, we need to pay attention to the design of the drawers, the two ends of the rack should be wide, the middle should be narrow. The advantage of this design is that the Lifting Chain with Hooks can be easily pulled back after the steel plates are placed, avoiding the Lifting Chain with Hooks stuck between the plates, increasing the convenience and safety of operation.
2.Crane Plus wire rope or strap
Crane with steel wire rope or strap is a flexible handling method. In this way, a 40mm attached beam needs to be placed on the rack. This design can help the wire rope or straps back smoothly after use, and will not become entangled in the steel plate or other structures. In the specific operation, the steel wire rope or strap is fixed on the steel plate, and then the plates are lifted. The placement of a 40mm attached beam not only protects the plate, but also ensures that the wire rope or strap is quickly retracted after the steel plate is dropped, improving the efficiency of the operation.
3. Forklift
In the absence of crane, we can use forklifts for storage and moving. At this time, an 80mm attached beam needs to be set up when designing the rack to facilitate the movement of the forklift after storage. The advantage of forklift handling is its flexibility and adaptability. By setting the 80mm attached beam, you can ensure that the steel plate is not damaged during the handling process, and provide enough operating space for the forklift to move freely in the warehouse or workshop.
Two ways to access sheet metal
With crane:
In the case of crane, we can use the Vacuum Lifter, Lifting Chain with Hooks and Permanent Lifting Magnet collocation to access the steel plate. This method is not only efficient, but also high security.
Vacuum Lifter: At the heart of the Vacuum Lifter lies an imported oil-free vacuum pump and valves that ensure high efficiency, safety, and rapid operation with minimal effort. It’s fitted with an accumulator and pressure monitoring to guarantee utmost safety during every lift. The adjustability of the suction pad positions and the ability to manually shut them off allows for tailored handling for each task, aligning with CE safety standards. For example, in the manufacturing industry, metal processing: in the handling of metal sheets, steel plates, aluminum plates, stainless steel plates and other materials, the vacuum hoist can be efficiently and safely operated to reduce the damage to the material surface. As well as in the handling of various mechanical parts, especially for large size, heavy parts, vacuum suction crane provides a convenient handling method. In the construction industry, like glass installation, in the installation process of building glass, window glass, large glass curtain wall, etc., the vacuum suction crane can easily and safely grasp and move the glass, avoiding the safety risks and damage risks in the traditional handling methods. And stone handling: In the handling and installation of marble, granite and other stone, the vacuum hoist can stably grasp and move heavy stone to improve work efficiency.
Lifting Chain with Hooks: Crafted from premium grade 100 chains, these lifting accessories are specifically designed to operate flawlessly in environments exposed to heat or chemicals, making them a perfect complement to construction sites and industrial settings, so I would recommend using hooks for the thicker steel plates. We provide a variety of configurations and hooks to suit the unique demands of your lifting operations. Sourced from the finest manufacturers in China and meticulously assembled by reputable rigging houses, our chains are synonymous with durability and reliability. Suitable for construction sites, chain hook is widely used in construction sites for lifting and moving heavy construction materials, such as steel beams, concrete prefabricated parts, etc. Its high strength and durability enable it to cope with a variety of harsh construction environments. At the same time, in the industrial manufacturing process, the chain hook is used for handling and loading and unloading heavy equipment and materials, such as machine parts, large steel plates, pipes and so on. They can withstand high loads, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
Permanent Lifting Magnet: Permanent Lifting Magnet, which are advanced permanent magnets, generate a magnetic field much more potent than standard magnets due to their composition of rare-earth elements and ferrite alloys. They are extensively utilized across multiple sectors for the purpose of moving metal objects or substantial loads. A distinct category of these magnets, known as permanent magnets, offers the advantage of being toggled between active and inactive states. This feature allows for the convenient relocation of the attached object to its designated location, after which the magnet can be deactivated. Opting for a Permanent Lifting Magnet to handle metallic objects such as plates, pipes, and disks represents a highly effective and economical method. In the automotive manufacturing industry, permanent lifting magnets are indispensable for moving hefty parts during the assembly process, thereby minimizing physical exertion and boosting productivity. And it is also crucial on construction sites and in steel workshops, facilitating the lifting and accurate placement of large steel structures like beams, columns, and plates.
2. Without Crane
If there is no crane, you can use the KBK CRANE or JIB CRANE with Vacuum Lifter to pick up goods. These two kinds of equipment are widely used in small and medium-sized workshops, flexible operation, and are not limited by the site.
KBK CRANE: The KBK CRANE is a modular design of lifting equipment, mainly composed of rails, brackets, tackles and cranes. Its tracks can be flexibly combined according to needs, suitable for a variety of working environments. The KBK CRANE is usually installed on top of the workshop, forming a lifting system that covers the entire work area. KBK CRANE is suitable for work environments that require coverage of a wide range of operations, especially in line production and large-scale warehousing. Specific applications include:
Automotive Manufacturing: On the automotive assembly line, KBK CRANE can cover the entire assembly area, facilitating the lifting and moving of individual components.
Machine building: In large machine building workshops, KBK CRANE can flexibly respond to different processing and assembly needs.
Warehouse logistics: In large warehouses, KBK CRANE can quickly and efficiently complete the access and handling of the steel plates.
JIB CRANE: JIB CRANE is a kind of lifting equipment with fixed arm, which is mainly composed of column, rotating arm and CRANE. The cantilever can be rotated and is usually mounted on a fixed column or wall, covering a fixed circular or semi-circular work area. JIB CRANE is suitable for small operating areas, especially where materials need to be lifted and moved frequently. Specific applications include:
Process assembly: On a small process assembly line, the JIB CRANE can easily complete the lifting and transfer of parts.
Machine tool assistance: In the machining shop, the JIB CRANE can be used as an auxiliary device of the machine tool for loading and unloading and workpiece handling.
Warehouse loading and unloading: In small and medium-sized warehouses, JIB CRANE can quickly complete the loading and unloading of goods, saving manpower.
The importance of handling tools
Through the above introduction, I believe you have a clear idea of what kind of handling tools you need. Handling tools not only play an important role in logistics and production processes.
- Increase efficiency
Efficient handling tools can greatly reduce operation time and improve work efficiency. For example, the combination of driving and Lifting Chain with Hooks, wire ropes or straps can quickly and accurately complete the handling and placement of the plate.
- Stay safe
Safe handling tools can reduce operational risks and ensure the safety of workers. For example, the use of Vacuum Lifter, permanent magnet hoist and other tools can be firmly fixed to prevent the sheet from slipping or tipping during handling.
The perfect combination of handling equipment and Roll-Out Sheet Metal Rack
Combining efficient handling equipment with Roll-Out Sheet Metal Rack maximizes production efficiency and operational safety.
- Seamless connection
Efficient handling equipment such as truck, forklift, KBK CRANE and the hand drawer plate shelf seamless docking, can achieve the rapid transfer and access of steel plates. After the handling equipment transport the steel plate to the rack position, the plate can be stored in the drawer by hand operation, greatly simplifying the operation process.
- Reduce labor intensity
The use of efficient handling equipment can reduce the labor intensity of manual handling and reduce the fatigue of workers during operation. Combined with the convenient design of Roll-Out Sheet Metal Racks, the work burden of workers is further reduced.
- Improve production efficiency
Through reasonable design and use, efficient handling equipment and Roll-Out Sheet Metal Racks can greatly improve production efficiency. Fast and easy access reduces downtime and improves line continuity and stability.
How to choose the right handling equipment
When selecting transportation equipment, consider the actual requirements and working environment. Here are a few suggestions:
- Consider your work environment
Different working environments have different requirements for handling equipment. For example, a workshop with a small space may be more suitable for JIB CRANE or KBK CRANE, while a large warehouse may have the option of a truck or forklift.
- Consider sheet size
The size and weight of the plate are also important factors in the selection of handling equipment. For heavier plates, it is recommended to choose a driving or permanent magnet crane with strong carrying capacity; For lighter plates, wire ropes or strap with high flexibility can be selected.
- Consider ease of operation
The convenience of operation directly affects the production efficiency. Choosing handling equipment that is easy to operate and maintain can reduce training time and improve the operational proficiency of workers.
Through the introduction of this article, we explain in detail the advantages of efficient handling equipment and Roll-Out Sheet Metal Racks and the method of combined use. Handling equipment plays an important role in logistics and production processes, directly affecting production efficiency and operational safety. The Roll-Out Sheet Metal Rack as an important supporting equipment of laser cutting machine, through its efficient access, space saving, safety and stability and flexible adaptation advantages, has brought great convenience to the production line. When selecting transportation equipment, you need to comprehensively consider the actual needs and working environment to ensure that the most suitable equipment is selected to improve production efficiency and operation safety. We can not only provide excellent racks, but also handling tools can be trusted! Looking forward to your contact! In the future, we will continue to be committed to providing customers with better products and services to help enterprises achieve efficient, intelligent and safe production management. If you have any needs or questions, please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to serve and help you.