As part of the reorganization in the area of intralogistics, Liebherr opted for crane systems from Vetter Krantechnik back in 2016. In the early summer of this year, Vetter supplied and installed two new "ErgoLine" workstation crane systems - an innovative new development from the crane specialist from the Siegerland region. Shortly after the market launch of "ErgoLine", the project managers from Liebherr came to Vetter to test the smooth-running system for its suitability. All components weighing up to a maximum of 1,000 kilograms arrive in the so-called unpacking zone, whereby after a precise analysis of the component weights and quantities, the focus of use for the ErgoLine system is on unit weights up to a maximum of 250 kilograms.

Challenging planning implemented
After an extensive test in Vetter's modern crane factory, Frédéric Varain, project manager at Liebherr, quickly realized: "This is exactly the kind of workplace crane system that we can use to efficiently speed up material handling in the unpacking zone and significantly improve ergonomics on the conveyor belts." There were still a few challenges to overcome during the planning phase. At two unpacking stations, two conveyor belts were to be spanned in such a way that each belt is covered by an "ErgoLine system". The crane supports themselves were not allowed to block the access for the forklift trucks. The workstations located between the conveyor belts were also not to be restricted by interfering intermediate supports.

Easily expandable and adaptable
With its flexible, modular crane system, Vetter has solved all the tasks set: to ensure the necessary stability of the main gantry over the rather long distance of almost ten meters, the supports and beams are made of steel. A gimbal-mounted ErgoLine crane bridge, also made of aluminum, runs on each of the aluminum runways suspended from them in pairs. The steel supports themselves could be positioned very close to the conveyor belts. This ensures full coverage of the workstations with maximum freedom of movement inside and outside the work area. The system is not at all fixed - thanks to its modular design and versatile components, the ErgoLine is not only easy to expand, but can also be adapted to any subsequent changes in production layout.

However, the system designed in this way is particularly impressive due to its ease of movement. This has also impressed the employees at Liebherr - according to the company, they enjoy using the cranes and report consistently positive feedback. Those responsible at Liebherr are also satisfied, because if acceptance among employees is high, a big step towards ergonomics and occupational safety has been taken.

Liebherr-Mining Equipment Colmar SAS
Liebherr has been manufacturing hydraulic excavators at its Colmar site in Alsace since 1961. In 2011, Liebherr-Mining Equipment Colmar SAS was also founded on site, specifically geared to the requirements of surface mining. In addition to Liebherr-France SAS in Colmar, the company also operates its own plant for the development, manufacture and servicing of large hydraulic excavators for opencast mining and dredgers for maritime applications. The mining excavators from Alsace are used for mining gold, diamonds, platinum, coal, iron ore and copper, among other things.

About Vetter
Vetter Krantechnik GmbH, a Vetter Holding AG company headquartered in Siegen, Germany, is a leading European supplier of slewing jib cranes, crane systems and load turning equipment with a comprehensive range of products and services. At the new crane factory in Haiger, Vetter produces with modern manufacturing technology and a long-standing workforce. There is also a specially equipped showroom where visitors can find out about the possible uses of the products and try them out. There will also be an opportunity to view the production facilities. The family-owned company is celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2019 and can look back on an equally long history in the field of conveyor technology. In 2013, the group of companies was split between the 4th and 5th generations as part of the succession, so that today there are two owner-managed company holding companies (Vetter Holding AG and Vetter Group GmbH). These are still fully family-owned.