Handling Specialty has developed a solid reputation for delivering safe, intelligent and robust material handling equipment to the Aerospace Industry utilized in the assembly, testing and MRO of aero engines.
If your operations require a secure, efficient and reliable method of positioning aero engines, Handling Specialty’s four-post, electro-mechanical lifting systems are a superior alternative to overhead cranes and fixed-height stands. These systems also offer many ergonomic and safety benefits in that technicians can have access to the engine at the correct elevation from ground level. These vertical work cells are engineered to suit existing building constraints and layouts. Systems are designed to be fully self-supporting or can be tied into a building’s existing architecture.
Handling Specialty’s engineering team works closely with end-users to establish an efficient and safe method of transferring the engine into the work cell and handing off the engine to the lifting system. Typically, engines are maneuvered into position inside the work cell via manually/automatically guided vehicles or engine transporters. Once the position inside the work cell is confirmed, the lift will lower and dock with the engine’s tooling mount or hardback. The lifting system will raise the engine allowing the transporter to leave the cell and then position the engine to the correct elevation for assembly operations. Past projects have also included synchronized dual lift systems designed to accept engines from overhead-type conveyors or cranes.
Handling Specialty’s unique approach creates a safe work environment for employees, engines and equipment by incorporating many redundant safety features into each design. These types of safety features often include secondary anti-fall protection systems to protect against a catastrophic failure, redundant braking solutions, Momentary operation style push-button operator interfaces and programmable safety laser scanners.
Electronically and/or mechanically synchronized drive systems provide for accurate and repeatable positioning, smooth motion characteristics and simple motion control. In addition to the precise lift/lower capabilities, these systems can be designed to accommodate multiple axis of motion with fully automated, synchronized and coordinated movements for pitch, yaw, roll and tilt.
Control of all axis of motion can be fully automated or sequenced by operator intervention. Operator interfaces range from simple push buttons to high-performance, touch screen HMIs for simple and seamless communications between the user and the control system. Full colour visual displays of the equipment, security access login, data collection, performance optimization, maintenance planning and diagnostic tools are a few typical features that can be incorporated into the system controls.
Given that each project has different technical and scope requirements, Handling Specialty’s creative engineering team collaborates with its clients from conceptual engineering through detailed design. In addition to a comprehensive inspection and validation process, all equipment undergoes thorough performance testing, and each client is invited to participate in a full factory acceptance test prior to shipment. Turnkey installations, onsite training, maintenance, spare parts and technical support are routine activities provided by Handling Specialty’s Professional Services Group. A highly skilled and dedicated workforce delivers innovative solutions, exceptional professional support, world-class credentials and an unmatched experience.
Handling Specialty is considered the premier source of custom-engineered lifting systems utilized in aero engine assembly and test applications which celebrate safety and efficiency. For more information on this production-proven technology or to learn more about Handling Specialty’s expertise with custom-engineered material handling solutions, please contact Mike Roper at 906-945-9661 ext. 234 or via email.
