This compact column lift may seem cute at first glance due to its dimensions, but its cargo makes it even sweeter: it transports fine chocolate.
A renowned manufacturer of these exquisite cocoa confections is our client. As our client's business is thriving and an expansion of the production area was necessary, our services were in demand.
Why did we choose a column lift?
This special column lift fulfills the classic functions of a loading lift table at a loading dock, but differs in two key aspects: it is based on a column lift rather than a scissor lift table and is specifically designed for indoor use.
But why did we decide against a scissor lift table? The reason lies in the structural conditions at the installation site. Directly beneath the installation area runs a cable duct. Installing a scissor lift table would have required a deeper pit, which would have necessitated the rerouting of cables. This would not only have been costly but would also have led to production downtime.
The column lift, on the other hand, required less clearance: only the 120 mm thick screed was removed to allow for floor-level access at the lower stop. In this case, the column lift was the more cost-effective solution.
Functionality and further structure of the column lift
Our column lifts are typically used as simplified goods lifts. That is, they usually operate within a completely enclosed area and feature automatic control.
However, in this particular case, the control and equipment differ: it resembles more a loading lift table than a traditional goods lift. This means that the movement is controlled by dead man's operation, so no extensive enclosure at the upper stop is necessary; a simple platform poral is sufficient.
On both longitudinal sides, we opted for enclosures, as electrical safeguarding would have been much more complex. The front of the column lift is equipped with a special rubber safety strip that eliminates the risk of foot entrapment.
The column lift’s freestanding structure is also noteworthy: The entire guide frame is secured with ties. An additional pressure tube on the right column provides stabilization laterally. Thanks to this configuration, the loading lift table could be installed with minimal structural effort, so no additional walls or mounting frames were necessary.
