Lifting and handling
Vacuum lifting systems for flat products: how do they work?
Have you ever wondered how a large panel can be lifted with extreme precision, rotated, and positioned without applying any mechanical pressure to the material?
In the industrial handling of panels, sheets, and other flat products, efficiency and safety must go hand in hand. Large-format products require stable gripping systems during lifting in order to preserve product integrity and make operators’ work easier.
For these applications, Tecnomovint, an Italy-based company specializing in the design, manufacture, and installation of industrial lifting and handling systems, distributes Vaculift vacuum lifting systems.
Here is the Vaculift system in operation:
The video shows the main operating stages of the system: gripping the panel, lifting, and rotating the load.
How does the Vaculift system work?
The Vaculift system operates by generating a vacuum through a dry-running rotary vane pump, allowing the suction cups to adhere to the surface of the panel and provide a stable, uniform grip.
Unlike conventional systems using chains, slings, or mechanical clamps, the load is distributed over a large surface area, reducing the risk of deformation or damage even when handling finished panels or particularly delicate materials.
The system is not limited to lifting alone: it allows the product to be handled in both horizontal and vertical positions, with rotation of up to ±90° or ±100°, depending on the configuration. This flexibility facilitates the loading of machine tools, automated lines, and production systems, improving ergonomics and productivity.
Throughout all operations, the vacuum level is continuously monitored by vacuum gauges, with visual and audible warning systems alerting the operator in the event of an abnormal condition. Meanwhile, the vacuum reservoir helps maintain a secure grip even in emergency situations, enhancing the overall safety of the handling process.
Technical features of the Vaculift system
The Vaculift system distributed by Tecnomovint combines a robust structure with components designed to ensure continuous operation and reliable grip control.
The main features include:
- Maximum load capacity: 1,000 kg
- Vacuum pump: VT4.25 dry-running rotary vane pump with a nominal flow rate of 25 m³/h
- Power supply: 400 V – 50 Hz
- Installed power: 4.0 kW
- Equipment weight: 1,922 kg
- Gripping system: 14 U250 suction cups with a diameter of 350 mm
- Capacity of each suction cup: 72 kg
- Operator controls: pendant control with a 5-meter cable, with optional radio remote control
- Suspension system: single- or dual-point configuration, depending on the application
The configuration shown is designed for handling rigid panels with:
- lengths from 12,000 to 15,000 mm;
- widths from 2,500 to 3,200 mm;
- thicknesses from 40 to 100 mm;
- maximum weight of 1,000 kg.
To ensure a secure grip, the material surface must be smooth and clean in the areas where the suction cups make contact.
Vaculift applications
Thanks to the ability to configure the number and arrangement of suction cups, Vaculift can be used to handle a wide range of flat products, including:
- sandwich panels;
- composite materials;
- sheet metal;
- glass;
- plastic panels;
- precast components;
- other large-format products with smooth surfaces.
Each solution is designed according to the characteristics of the material to be handled, its weight and dimensions, and the production process.
To determine the most suitable configuration for a specific application, customers can contact Tecnomovint. Drawing on its experience in the design and integration of industrial lifting and handling systems, the company supports customers in selecting the most effective solution, from requirements analysis through installation and technical support.
