Mennens Supplies Eight Overhead Cranes for Elma Technology’s New Facility
Lifting and moving complex workpieces: this was the challenge we faced when Elma Technology asked us to supply a series of overhead cranes for its new facility. Elma Technology, a supplier of technical products and services in the field of electrical drive and control technology, is moving into an impressive new facility on Centurionbaan in Soesterberg this autumn. Mennens has the honour of supplying and installing no fewer than eight single-girder overhead cranes! This exciting contract was finalised following discussions via Skype, an approach that perfectly suited the circumstances at the time.
Various Lifting Capacities
Mennens will supply cranes with different lifting capacities: two 2-tonne cranes (equipped with chain hoists), four 3.2-tonne cranes (also equipped with chain hoists) and two 5-tonne cranes (equipped with wire rope hoists). All eight overhead cranes will have a span of more than 13 metres and will be fitted with Autec radio remote controls. These remote controls will be supplied and configured by Elma Technology itself.
The 2-tonne and 5-tonne cranes will be equipped with ASR variable-frequency hoisting systems. This technology allows the lifting speed to increase smoothly and continuously to its maximum during operation. The maximum lifting speed also depends on the weight of the load, as the hoisting system monitors the load and automatically adjusts the maximum speed accordingly. Heavier loads therefore have a lower maximum lifting speed than lighter loads.
In addition, all cranes are equipped with variable-frequency control for crane and trolley travel as standard. This smooth acceleration and deceleration enables precise load positioning while maintaining productivity and reducing load sway. These cranes can therefore truly be described as precision lifting equipment.
Marcel Rabenort, Deputy Director at Mennens Dongen:
“This project is a fantastic boost during these challenging times. It demonstrates that, despite difficult circumstances, our customers continue to place their trust in Mennens!”
A Flexible Lifting Solution
Elma Technology asked Mennens to help develop an optimal lifting solution capable of handling and moving often complex workpieces with maximum flexibility. Together with Elma Technology, we explored several solutions from our product range. All considerations and final decisions were then coordinated with the building's structural engineering contractor, Hardeman from Veenendaal.
Jarno Vermunt, Project Manager at Mennens:
“Elma frequently needs to lift long loads, such as shafts. However, other loads of various shapes and weights are also moved on a daily basis. We therefore focused on finding the best crane configuration to provide the widest possible lifting coverage while also allowing incoming trucks to unload long loads as efficiently as possible.”
Optimal Collaboration
Elma Technology can now use multiple cranes in combination with versatile lifting equipment, such as a custom lifting beam from Mennens. Thanks to this close collaboration, Mennens has developed a high-quality, flexible and cost-effective lifting solution.
Jarno explains: “We look forward to delivering a complete solution by the end of this year, perfectly tailored to Elma's requirements and the structural design of its new facility.”
Jens Ekelaar, Managing Director at Elma Technology:
“In addition to being extremely excited about our new facility, we are also very pleased with Mennens. Together, we worked to find the best possible solution. With these eight overhead cranes, our employees can carry out lifting operations safely and efficiently.”
Want to Know More?
The solution to your lifting challenge may come from an unexpected direction. Mennens can help you identify the right solution through a thorough analysis of your specific requirements.
Would you also like expert advice on choosing the best crane for your business? Feel free to contact us for a no-obligation consultation.
