Vacuum load-bearer
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A vacuum load-bearing device— the AABA-VAC—for moving, lifting and loading slabs and sheets of most materials with sealed surfaces, introduced by Aabacs Engineering Co. Ltd.. is the first vacuum lifting unit to be entirely self-contained. It is fully manoeuvrable because it requires no vacuum pump and no powercable or air-lines. It is' claimed that additional economics are made through reduced handling time.
The vacuum required to hold the load is created by the gravity of the material being lifted. The AABA-VAC's main corn ponents are a piston and a cylinder which has a pliable sealing ring fitted to its lower edge. (Oil-proof and heat-proof sealing rings are available.)
The AABA-VAC is put on the load and the piston lowers to its bottom position (displacing the air-space through a valve). When the device is lifted a vacuum is created below the piston. At the same time air in the pressure chamber above the piston is being compressed to the same extent as the gravity of the load. Suction holds the sealing ring to the load as it is being lifted. Insecure loads are registered on a vacuum meter and a warning whistle can be fitted.
To release the pressure, the AABA-VAC is lowered until the piston clears the vacuum, and the air pressures inside and outside the devices are equal, when the device can be lifted clear.
The standard AABA-VAC range includes manual devices for up to 1341b safe working load; individual units with capacities from 5cwt to 4 tons; devices for contour surfaces from 10cwt. to 4 tons s.w.I.; adhesive advices with great holding power for certain applications; and multi-pad equipment for extra-long materials up to 5 tons For greater weights and material lengths. and for the handling of tubes, pipes and profiles special types of units can be produced.
Made by: Aabacas Engineering Co. Ltd., Kelvin Rd., Wallasey, Cheshire.