Centralized pneumatic control for multiple hoists

Material handling specialist J.D. Neuhaus recently supplied a handling system comprising four of its air-operated monorail hoists. It featured a centralized pneumatic system providing common sensitive controls for lift and traverse movements of the hoists, either individual or paired, or with all four hoist units operating simultaneously.

The four EH 50 hoist models each provide a 50-ton lift capacity. Two hoists operate in tandem on one common overhead beam, providing a collective synchronized lift of up to 100 tons, with two separate power supplies for individual hoist operation when required. To accommodate the provision of separate energy chains in the limited space available, the fitment of individual energy chains on both the top and underside of the support beam was necessary.

Each of the four individual hoists was also equipped with an emergency lowering device to handle the controlled and safe grounding of suspended loads in the event of any total loss or interruption of air power supply. Along with the centralized four-hoist control panel, optional pendant controls for use during equipment maintenance operations were also provided. This handling system operates off a 6- bar mains air pressure, and incorporates compact, low headroom design hoists, fitted with instant starting vane motors exhibiting low maintenance requirements; limited humidity and dust sensitivity; and, an operating temperature range from -4°F to 158°F (-20°C to +70°C).

The robust hoists are shipped with paint finish providing corrosion protection against tough weather conditions, including salty, moist air. The EH range of hoists cover individual lift capacities of 10, 16, 20, 25, 30, 37, 40, 50, 60, 75 and 100 tons. Hoists designed for operation where low headroom conditions exist can also be supplied. Multi-hoist assemblies and associated controls can be customized for a wide range of product lift requirements for general engineering, from small workshop to major handling applications.

Overload protection, two speed trolley controls with rack and pinion drives can also be provided as optional extras to complement standard failsafe braking systems, plus anti-climb or anti-drop devices. Optional hydraulic operation for the EH range of hoists can also be supplied for the 20-, 25-, 37- and 50-ton lift capacities. — J.D. Neuhaus L.P., Loveton Circle, Md., 888/638-4287; www.jdngroup.com