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What is vacuum-tube handling?

Manut-LM is France’s #1 manufacturer of Vacuum Tube Handling solutions We explain here what this technology consists of

Vacuum-tube handling – What is it all about?

The manual handling of loads is a common activity in all the companies involved in the production of goods, trading or services.

In order to reduce the strain of employees, it is necessary to find solutions formanual handling, whether it is for lifting heavy loads or for tasks where handling is repetitive.

The vacuum-tube handling system is a technology that allows to carry effortlessly various loads thanks to a suction system. The weight is then removed for the operators.

  1. A vacuum generator creates a suction in a tube,
  2. The air intake allows the loads to be picked up with a gripping tool,
  3. The lifting tube compresses when obstructed by the load, which lifts the load
  4. A control handle allows to control the orientation of the device and the lifting/lowering of the load

This technology is widely used in industrial and logistics environments, in particular because it integrates perfectly into all types of environments. It eliminates the risk of musculoskeletal disorders or MSDs, particularly in areas where physical work is strenuous.

Vacuum-tube handling assistance – How does it work?

A vacuum-tube lifting device consists of the following components:

The vacuum generator that will create the suction: Depending on the model, it can be a turbine or a vacuum vane pump. This element creates a vacuum in the lifting tube which allows the load to be picked up and lifted.

The lifting tube is the central element of this handling system: air suction creates an air vacuum that results in the tube contracting, thus lifting the load.

The control handle which is intended to control the handling equipment: it is used to manipulate and control the raising and lowering of the load. This lifting handle can be designed depending on the movement to be performed and the type and weight of the load to be handled.

The gripping tool,which is the part that will grasp (grip = pick up) the load so that it is hoisted by the lifting unit. For vacuum-tube handling assistance we often consider a suction cup, which is the most common case. However, depending on the load, a fork, a handling clamp, a lifting hook, vacuum-lifting devices for panels, etc. can be used.

The support on which the handling system is suspended: depending on the configuration of the premises and the weight of the load, a jib crane or overhead crane could be preferable for manipulating the load.

What loads can be manipulated?

The maximum weight usually specified is 300 kg. This limitation is due to the fact that vacuum-tube handling is very flexible, easy to handle and fast. Rapidly moving loads in excess of 300 kg can present a risk to the operator, so heavier weights should be avoided.

Manual handling assistance systems can carry all types of loads because they can accommodate all the necessary gripping tools: cartons, bags, panels, drums and cans, glazing…

To discover some examples of loads click here

In which sectors should lifting tube handling aids be integrated?

A suction cup handling system can easily be integrated into any industry. As soon as loads are handled, arduousness can set in and cause MSDs (musculoskeletal disorders), work stoppages and occupational diseases.

This type of industrial manipulator can be particularly useful on production lines to facilitate the lifting of panels, beams and any other type of manufactured parts. At the end of the chain, these solutions are also useful during palletizing operations of products packaged by cartons, bags or cans.

Discover some sectors where lifting tube handling aid is particularly used

Lifting Tube – MSDs reduction

The advantages of vacuum-tube handling assistance solutions are numerous.

Reducing the risk of injury, workplace accidents, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) or work-related illnesses is the primary source of investment in this type of device.

As part of reducing the risk of MSDs, material handling solutions may be eligible for CARSAT-funded grants. Find out here how to benefit from aid to finance manual handling aid solutions.

Maximizing Productivity with Vacuum-tube lifting devices

In order to maximize the productivity of operators, it is useful to equip yourself with lifting equipment. They allow a single operator to handle heavy loads, effortlessly and quickly up to 300 kg.

The advantage is also noticeable on the lifting of bulky loads such as panels or beams. Without a device, even on light weights, this type of load involves the intervention of several employees by adopting non-ergonomic postures.

The other advantage is in terms of safety, both for operators and loads. Lifting tube handling aid systems ensure that loads are picked up or grasped and prevent improper handling. The risk of falling on operators is then almost zero if the device is used correctly.

In addition, the grip by suction cup guarantees the integrity of the product handled , which is essential when it comes to lifting glazing, worktops, body parts for example.

Why Manut-LM? Made In France!

Manut-LM France manufactures lifting tube handling aids based on the highest quality criteria. Our entire production process is located on our site based in Ancenis in Loire-Atlantique (44): Design Office, Welding, Assembly, after-sales service…

Our specialty is the tailor-made manufacture of devices that fit perfectly into all contexts by taking into account several factors:

  • Integration on site: whether with a stem or an overhead crane, we are able to design the structure that will accommodate the handling equipment while adapting to your constraints. Footprint on the ground, recovery on the frame or on walls, we provide the most relevant solution to your needs.
  • Your production process: Our teams are trained in ergonomics and flow reorganization to optimize workstations thanks to lifting equipment.
  • The specificity of your expenses: Our devices are tailor-made to grip your loads without damaging them and to lift them while eliminating strenuousness.

Our proximity is a guarantee of satisfaction for our customers. The responsiveness of our sales teams, our maintenance department and our production equipment allows us to respond as quickly as possible to your needs in a timely manner!


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