What is a loading traverse and how is it used?
Loading traverses are used for loading and unloading racking systems with heavy loads. The warehouse operator can lift a single sheet or tube without any problems. For heavier loads such as
- Machines,
- Sheet metal packages,
- fully loaded pallets,
- Coils
- or long goods packages
the forklift truck or a hydraulically controlled loading traverse is recommended.
Loading traverses generally consist of a square or rectangular profile made of steel or robust aluminium that can be rotated and adjusted. Depending on the type, a loading traverse can be designed as a crane traverse or be mounted transversely on a structure, on a storage system or under the roof. It is also referred to as a beam spreader. To take the loads, a loading traverse has hooks, eyes, clamps or rope hangers.
Loading traverses are often offered specifically for use as drum lifters for the cable drum or drum shafts. storemaster® offers with the LoadingBeam a loading traverse specially designed for fast and effortless loading of entire sheet metal storage drawers. It can be operated by crane or forklift. LoadingBeam is available as a traverse with, among others, the sheet metal bearing systems MasterTower® TT, ShuttleMaster® and TwenTower® compatible.
What advantages does a loading traverse offer compared to other loading systems?
Compared to forklifts or cranes, loading traverses require less space for manoeuvring or transporting the stored goods. They can therefore be used in warehouses with tighter spaces. This means they can also reach stored goods that are difficult to access for external systems. Another advantage is that the attached weights can be distributed evenly and accurately in mm along the lengths, thus minimising the risk of damage.
What materials are typically used for the manufacture of loading beams?
In general, the trusses consist of many mm thick profiles made of steel or aluminium. This ensures the highest possible load-bearing capacity and durability. storemaster® offers a 20-year guarantee on its LoadingBeam® as well as all compatible shelving systems. Less frequently, lighter materials such as plastic or wood are used.
What safety aspects should be considered when using loading traverses?
We associate loading beams above all with high load-bearing capacity. Especially in manufacturing industries such as mechanical engineering, heavy loads have to be lifted. Not only the lifting beam itself, but also the suspension devices such as hooks or eyes must be able to withstand high loads.
The same applies when operating a loading traverse:
- Only trained personnel should be used
- Protective equipment such as safety harnesses and helmets are "compulsory".
