Seven Key Technologies That Enhance Overhead Handling System Safety and Productivity

Overhead handling systems are one of the most widely used material handling systems across many industries. These consist of various types of cranes, hoists, and monorails that share the common functionality of lifting the product and moving it efficiently and ergonomically from one point to another without damage to the product or the facility—or injury to the worker. Throughout the advent of overhead handling systems, there have been several technological advancements in overhead equipment. In this article, we will discuss the seven key technologies that enhance overhead handling system’s safety and productivity. These are:

1. Safety overload limits ensure the safety of the load and the equipment by preventing the device from lifting loads whose weight exceeds the rated capacity of the overhead handling system. This technology considerably reduces the risk of damage to the crane, monorail, or hoist. Pneumatic devices also come with a check valve in case of loss of air supply.
2. ‘Float’ mode in overhead handling systems like pneumatic air balancers makes the material load virtually weightless, thereby giving you more accuracy to finish the job. This enhances productivity as the workers can easily manipulate and work around with the load with ease. It also enhances safety as the workers can work with the load without the risk of the load falling off.
3. Wireless remote controls are used to control the system to lift, load or unload the material. This allows the workers to operate the device from a location that is at a safe distance from the load; thereby avoiding injuries.
4. Adjustable variable speed controls provide easy control of hoists and balancers with simple to adjust UP/DN speeds. This gives precision of handling, improves load positioning, and minimizes the risk of damage to the item being handled. This technology allows the operator to comfortably direct the function of the overhead lifting solution for long periods of time while minimizing fatigue and decreasing the chance of repetitive stress injuries.
5. The build of overhead equipment, hooks, chains and ropes is of superior technology these days. For example, expanded hook designs are used in hoists for both safe and versatility, along with redundant support bracket capable of supporting full safe working load. This technology extends the life of the lifting system as well as ensures its safe operation for a long time.
6. Advancements in electric & pneumatic motor technologies increase equipment reliability and duty cycles while minimizing maintenance requirements and associated downtime. These are made more energy efficient, consuming only a fraction of a CFM per cycle compared to other heavy duty devices.
7. Customization of equipment provided by some manufactures ensures you get the overhead systems best suited for your requirements. For example, you get options for primary arm, secondary arm, air swivels arms, filter and regulator option, primary and secondary arm air brake, parking brake, portable base, caster base and wall bracket, etc. while buying an articulating jib crane. The technology enabling such levels of customization lets you get the equipment that is safest and most efficient for your use.

To find out more about game-changing technologies in Conco’s range of overhead handling systems, contact us on (712) 841-4548.