by David Peters
Wood's Powr-Grip is pleased to announce the addition of a new low-profile vacuum lifter: the MRTALPR4. In addition to the advantages of other below-the-hook lifters in our low-profile series, this Powr-Grip rotator/tilter features a specially designed, adjustable pad frame with flexible vacuum pads and sliding pad mounts. This makes the MRTALPR4 the ideal solution for installing architectural metal panels, stone or other products with some surface texture.
The new MRTALPR4 comes in two basic configurations: the MRTALP4625DC3 and the MRTALP410TDC3. While these vacuum lifters have essentially the same frame, features and available options, the primary difference is the style of vacuum pad. The MRTALPR4625DC comes outfitted with four 6-1/2" x 25-1/2" [950 mm x 2362 mm] oval pads made with foam rubber (model VPFS625), while the MRTALPR410TDC sports four 10" [25 cm] diameter vacuum pads fitted with replaceable sealing rings (model FS10T). The oval pads are long and narrow to enable use on architectural panels with regularly spaced ridges or curtain wall sections with mullions or similar obstructions. The more conventional round pads are well equipped for lifting flat materials such as low-relief metal panels, sealed stone and textured glass. Both lifters have a standard load capacity of 600 lbs [270 kg] and can accommodate loads up to 12" [30 cm] thick.
All MRTALP lifters now come equipped with a 2.5 SCFM [71 liters/minute], dual-head vacuum pump. The increased airflow enables a vacuum lifter to attach and release more rapidly, increasing productivity on the job. The high flow also shortens the cycle time of the pump. Since the new DC power system draws only 5 amps instead of the previous 10 amps, less power is used by the vacuum lifter during operation, thereby doubling run time in the field. The dual head is integrated with two independent vacuum circuits. In the unlikely event that one of the two vacuum circuits fails, the other should provide sufficient vacuum to safely lower the load without dropping, preventing unexpected damage or injury.
The MRTALPR4 vacuum lifters are well appointed with an extensive list of standard features. An adjustable-position lift spool provides three different lift points to optimize the lifter's hang angle, making repetitive material placement quicker and easier. Combined with the standard blow-off for quick release, adjustable vacuum pad mounts and spring-mounted vacuum pads, the MRTALPR4 lifters have been optimized for maximum productivity on the job.
An impressive array of new options further adds to the utility and versatility of the MRTALPR4 lifters. Intended for the cladding industry, the available pad frame extension arms for roof panels come with four arms, a specialized lift shackle and four suspension straps - enabling a vacuum lifter to install roof panels up to 60 feet [18.3 m] in length. The suspension straps enable the vacuum lifter to install long, rigid roof panels without damaging the lifter.
The MRTALPR4 lifters come standard with two pad frame T-arm assemblies. By adding the optional pad frame extension arms and the optional pad frame rocker arms, along with additional pad frame T-arm assemblies, the lifter's load capacity can be increased from 600 lbs [270 kg] to 1100 lbs [500 kg]. These options enable the vacuum lifter to handle longer, heavier roofing panels with ease while supporting the panels to prevent damage from flexing or bending.
Couple the optional remote control system with the standard 18 amp-hour battery, and your new MRTALPR4 lifter will truly be optimized for maximum productivity. The remote control allows an operator to control the functions of the vacuum lifter without having to be in close proximity. The long-lasting 18 amp-hour battery significantly extends the run time of the vacuum lifter, eliminating the need for frequent recharging while providing more time on the job.
All in all, the new MRTALPR4's are an amazing addition to the Wood's Powr-Grip line-up of vacuum lifters. To get yours, visit the Wood's Powr-Grip Dealer nearest you, or contact one of our Technical Support Representatives for more information.
David Peters had more than 30 years experience in sales and marketing. He was the marketing associate for Wood's Powr-Grip Co., Inc., responsible for interactive marketing, tracking, market research and new product introduction.
Woods Powr-Grip Releases New Low-Profile Vacuum Lifter