Die handling in industrial settings is a challenge that's often underestimated. Whether flipping, rotating, or transferring dies, the process comes with various challenges that can wear and tear or even damage your overhead crane system. From shock loading and load drifting to potential damage to wire ropes and other crucial components, die handling is far from straightforward.
1. The Hidden Costs of Traditional Die Handling
Often, die flipping is carried out using two hoists on a single or multiple cranes. However, the orientation of these hoists and their interaction with the crane system's bridge beam can be the difference between seamless operation and disastrous malfunction. While hoists with rope guides may seem tempting, they're susceptible to damage from the slightest side pull. Furthermore, these rope guides, usually found on European-style hoists, can be costly to replace.
Another overlooked aspect is the hoisting equipment features. Selecting the right hoisting features to ensure a safe and effective system can significantly escalate the overall costs, especially considering the need for two hoists to handle die-flipping operations.
2. Toward a More Efficient Die Handling: Key Features
For best practices, it's advisable to use double-reeved hoists, as their hooks remain in a static position relative to the hoist body, ensuring evenly distributed loads. Regarding safety, having both hoists capable of holding the entire load minimises the risk of damaging overloads and helps mitigate the typical shock loading experienced during flipping operations. Load-limiting devices, often overlooked, ensure that damaging loads are not lifted.
Opting for Advanced Control Mechanisms
Modern control stations allow the operator to choose between operating a single hoist and trolley. Coupled with remote radio controls, this technological advancement allows operators to maintain a safe distance from moving loads. The ability to program slower travel speeds for precise placement is another leap forward, offering an extra layer of control and safety.
3. The Importance of Proper Mould Maintenance
When we delve into the area of mould maintenance, three primary methods stand out for cleaning:
- Pneumatic Air Buffers: This commonly deployed technique is used by approximately 50-60% of industries.
- Dry Ice Process: This involves a machine filled with dry ice and compressed air aimed at the mould.
- Ultrasonic Cleaning: Arguably the most effective, this method is a high-pressure washer that removes all types of debris.
Regular cleaning is not just an operational requirement; it's a long-term investment. Failing to maintain your moulds can lead to defects, potentially making them unusable and impacting your bottom line.
4. The Rise of Efficient Procedures with LOADMATE
Technological advancements have allowed for fast mould or die change procedures. For instance, LOADMATE has streamlined the die change process so that it takes less than a minute. Such efficiency allows companies to produce goods quickly, drastically reducing storage costs and inefficiencies.
5. Conclusion
The quality of crane and hoist manufacturing directly impacts the safety and efficiency of lifting operations. Whether it's die handling or mould maintenance, new technologies and methodologies consistently enhance how we operate. LOADMATE, for instance, focuses on top-notch hoisting technologies and emphasises speed control systems that allow operators to control the entire system smoothly.
By adopting these best practices and technologies, industries can ensure a safer, more efficient, cost-effective operational environment. Therefore, as we move forward in this digital age, embracing these technological shifts isn't just an option; it's a necessity for staying competitive.
