In an ideal world, all loads would be square, lifted straight up, moved level through the air, and put back down in the same orientation. In reality, there are many applications that require manipulation of the object, such as servicing a product, positioning for shipment or preparation for installation. These loads vary greatly in size and weight too.
In precast, marine, aerospace, automotive, general manufacturing and countless other industries, the loads to be turned in the air are often bulky and awkwardly shaped – presenting additional challenges associated with off-centres of gravity.
Take lumber facilities, for example. Many need the ability to flip panels utilising electric overhead travelling (EOT) cranes, say, from conveying systems en route to computer numerical control (CNC) decks, before they are flipped again when work is complete.
As is often the case, there are a number of ways to approach these challenges. Here we look at two choices, before arriving at the innovative Posi-Turner:
- Dual cranes/slings
- Upenders
- Load turners.
Dual cranes/slings
This method is often chosen because it utilises material handling and rigging equipment already likely in use at a facility. If skilled riggers and crane operators are among the workforce, cranes and slings can be safely employed to rotate loads. However, the downside is that sideloading can cause damage to the crane and/ or load in certain circumstances. Asymmetrical loads present challenges for this method, even for experienced below-the-hook professionals.
Upenders
In an environment where coils or similar loads need to be handled, products are available to upright loads for easier processing or storage, especially in repeated lifts. Upenders are typically used to flip loads 90°. Of course, it takes a certain shape and type of object for this method to work safely and efficiently. Again, limitations exist, in that, while one can use an upender to rotate 180°, 270° or even a full 360°, it’s not easy and requires quite a bit of manoeuvring.
Load turners
We manufacture a more versatile lifter, called the Posi-Turner, designed to rotate any bulky object during manufacturing or assembly processes, including rail cars, nautical vessel hulls or semi-truck chassis. They are operated beneath cranes but eliminate the need to side-load because they load directly belowthe- hook.
This type of product gives the user complete control of the piece being rotated, which isn’t possible when side-loading or manual handling. The gear reduction and electric brake motors of the Posi-Turner allow a user to stop and start rotation at any time during the process without back driving. Like the other options, it too performs best with symmetrical objects, but it can be adjusted for various shapes.
Acquiring an upender, Posi-Turner or other load rotating below-the-hook product will require an initial investment, but the overall cost of a dedicated device is minimal compared to the risks of misusing other equipment or the far worse consequences of an incident or accident.
If you’re looking to source a product for rotating a load, it’s a good idea to provide as much information as possible to the manufacturer or their channel partner. This can be in the form of photos, drawings and dimensions. Details such as the location of protrusions, oil lines and other features of the load are important. It also helps speed up the process to arriving at the right solution if the application is clearly outlined, with an explanation of what needs to be lifted and rotated, where it needs to be set down, and why.
SHARP FOCUS
A custom system for rotating a track section is being used during manufacture of a giant telescope.
The concept was based on a 110t capacity modular spreader beam and two 20t capacity swivel hoist rings. Below the beam, rotation and landing assemblies on each side of the load facilitate positioning and securement of a track section. Two 85t capacity top shackles, two 55t capacity bottom shackles and lifting slings are among other key components.
