Remote-controlled: improved efficiency and safety

A special device from Genkinger provided the optimum solution. Beforehand, those responsible had simulated alternative solutions, including using cranes. In the end, they decided to transport the coils using an electric pedestrian pallet truck with prismatic forks. The special device was developed by Genkinger from Münsingen. Nussbaum Metallhandel supplies the German market and several European countries with semi-finished products made of copper, brass and bronze to customers for spring parts and plug contacts, e.g. for the automotive and electrical industries. With the decision to move into a new building, the efficiency and safety of coil handling were immediately at the top of the agenda for Nussbaum: a reference visit to a coil supplier provided valuable insights into how optimized coil handling could be carried out with the help of a Genkinger device.

Special task

The special device from Genkinger picks up the coil on the turning table.

What tipped the scales in favor of Genkinger? Initially, Nussbaum sought advice from the in-house supplier of standard equipment, which was not designed for this special task. Once it was clear that only a special appliance could be considered, the decision was made to go with Genkinger as a renowned supplier of standard and special storage technology products. Nussbaum's production manager Wilfried Herzog explains: "One reason why the solution was such a good fit was the fact that we brought Genkinger on board early on in the planning phase and were therefore able to work out detailed solutions in parallel with the progress of the shell construction." For example, the environmental conditions were precisely incorporated in the form of the enclosure of the new plant in accordance with the guidelines.

Ten to 15 lifting cycles

The operator stands close enough to the reel and industrial truck for the best possible view, but also far enough away from the danger zone. Prism fork and hold-down device secure the coils, which are only 19 mm wide.

Today's Nussbaum metal processing is carried out by a new system as well as one that was already present in the old building. Genkinger sales consultant Elmar Mößlang explains: "The specially manufactured high-lift truck can handle both Nussbaum systems and coils of different weights and sizes up to 3.5 tons. The device also transfers very narrow coils, which are secured by prismatic forks and a hold-down device, to the machine." There are around ten to 15 lifting cycles per shift, and Nussbaum has created potential for future growth. Most coils currently weigh between 1.8 t and 2.4 t, but the Genkinger device also handles the narrow coils with a width of just 19 mm precisely and quickly. "Thanks to a remote control, the employees move far away from the danger zone and are therefore always safe, even if a coil should slip," says Production Manager Wilfried Herzog. The increase in safety has noticeably reduced employees' stress levels. "The special device works as it should; the investment has proven to be very worthwhile. By transporting narrower coils, we have even been able to cover one more area of application," concludes Herzog.

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