Roll Handling Guidelines

Crane Handling: When a roll mandrel is hung from a custom crane and a 90 degree tilt is required, a load leveler can be added depending on the size and weight of the roll.

The load leveler is a device that actively moves the crane hook point under pneumatic power to level out the roll after tilting. 

Manipulator Handling: Regardless of the size or weight of the roll, or where its center of gravity is located, lifting rolls with a manipulator (as shown in these photos and videos) improves ergonomics for the operator when transferring material to a perfect horizontal or vertical position. Manipulators can also reach underneath other rolls in an array in an unwind machine. Additionally, they float the load, which eliminates the need for up/ down controls.

Robot Handling: Roll mandrels have to be custom-fitted to the tooling plate of a robot. Sensors indicate whether the mandrel is gripped or released.

Extremely Heavy Rolls: Manipulators lift heavier rolls (that do not require rotation) by inserting shafts in either end.

Mobile Roll Handling: It is necessary to use a long-travel crane when loading many machines separated by a considerable distance. A mobile manipulator is an option for the roll handler. Forklifts move manipulators that have a heavy base. A forklift, for example, could move the manipulators with a heavy base. In the case of light rolls, pallet carts or a “walkie” is an option for mounting the manipulator.

Loading Guidelines

Loading Mandrels: It is important to take into account the tight clearance between the inside diameter of a roll and the diameter of the unwind mandrel. For rolls weighing less than 300 lbs, the manipulator can float loads without up/ down controls. In this situation, the operator moves the roll up and down by pulling on the handlebars, and can ‘feel’ the roll slide over the mandrel.

Binding is almost impossible because the roll can never be forced upward or downward against the mandrel, except to the extent that the operator can with his own hands.