Applications of vacuum lifters for metal sheets, plates and slabs
Vacuum lifters for metal sheets, steel plates, and slabs are commonly used by metal manufacturers and traders, machine factories, shipyards, port and logistics companies. They can be used for steel, stainless steel, aluminium, copper, brass, and other ferrous and non-ferrous metals, including sheet metal from 1 mm thick, tear plates, and aluminium slabs. Typical applications include horizontal lifting, internal transport, loading and unloading, storage handling, and moving plates to and from production or processing equipment.
Integration with a host machine
Our vacuum lifters can be integrated with existing lifting equipment, such as overhead and mobile cranes, reach stackers, or forklifts. The configuration is matched to the available connection or hook, power supply, controls, and lifting capacity of the host machine. Depending on the handling process, the vacuum lifter can be operated by one person or integrated into a fully automated handling system.
Photos and videos of vacuum lifters for metal sheets and slabs
Advantages of vacuum lifting for metal sheets, plates and slabs
Flat metal products are well suited to vacuum lifting because their relatively smooth, airtight surfaces allow the suction pads to create a reliable seal. The load can be picked up directly from the top, without the need for slings, hooks or spacers around the product. Key benefits and advantages are:
- Reduced risk of product damage due to soft rubber
- Enhanced safety as handling can be controlled remotely
- Streamlined operations due to quick suction and release within seconds
- Simplified handling & lower equipment costs as no slings, hooks or spacers are necessary
- Clear traceability as only the required plate is lifted
- Fewer issues during further processing due to no residual magnetism
- Flexible handling of different sizes as suction pads can be configured or switched off to match the load
- Improved ergonomics due to reduced manual handling around the load
- Good return on investment through increased productivity and reduced operational expenses
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Various options for your needs
We engineer and manufacture each lifting solution around the specific handling situation. For common applications, a modular solution can often provide the required functionality with a shorter delivery time, while more specific requirements may call for a fully customised solution. For temporary projects or while waiting for a new machine, rental offers a practical way to get started right away.
Relevant products
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U-series vacuum lifters
Aerolift U-series are modular vacuum lifters for smaller loads weighing 1-3 tons.Learn more -
S-series vacuum lifters
Aerolift S-series are modular vacuum lifters designed to handle loads weighing 1-30 tons.Learn more -
Custom solutions
Custom solutions are designed for unique needs that standard lifting attachments cannot meet.Learn more
Why choose Aerolift vacuum lifters?
For metal handling, safety and efficiency have to work together in daily operation. We combine application experience with in-house engineering, manufacturing, and service to develop lifting solutions that are practical to operate and maintain over the long term.
Quality solutions that outperform
We have developed key components such as rubber seals, hoses, vacuum gauges, and valves specifically for our vacuum lifting systems. Combined with manufacturing within the Aerolift group, this gives us close control over quality, safety, and reliable operation.
Expertise & experience to think along
With more than 60 years of experience across different industries, we bring a broad perspective to each handling challenge. Combined with strong in-house engineering, this helps us look beyond the initial request and develop solutions that excel in performance and safety.
Easy maintenance and worldwide support
Our lifting devices are designed for straightforward maintenance, with key components positioned for easy access and daily checks in just a few minutes. Clear maintenance documentation, globally available components, and worldwide service support help minimise downtime and keep equipment in operation.
Projects & customer stories
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- Customer stories
- Metal
Battery-powered vacuum lifter – the perfect solution for shipyard Royal IHC
If there’s one industry where large and heavy steel plates are used extensively, it’s shipbuilding. The Dutch shipyard Royal IHC in Kinderdijk chose to use an Aerolift vacuum lifter for handling. Bert de Kwant, Technical Services Manager at Royal IHC, explains why.
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- Customer stories
- Metal
Stigterstaal has been satisfied for decades with Aerolift vacuum lifters
Being a global brand, Stigterstaal is a leading steel supplier for the shipbuilding and offshore industries. For decades, the company based near Rotterdam, the Netherlands has used Aerolift...