Swisslog says its newly-developed mini-load crane is the fastest in its class
November 3, 2009
Swisslog says its newly-developed mini-load crane is the fastest in its class.
The Tornado features consistent weight optimisation, modern control technology and an energy-saving design, according to the company.
The new solution was developed by Swisslog’s recently-established Technology Centre and will be used in future intra-logistics projects in the company’s warehouse and distribution solutions division.
The unit is based on a modular system and a unique shared components concept. The scalable modular approach was applied to all levels of the crane (mechanics, electrics, controls) to optimise transportability and simplify installation and maintenance.
By using a shared components principle, the number of required spare parts can be minimised significantly, Swisslog boasts.
The Tornado was designed for high endurance and long intervals between servicing, ideally suited for three-shift operation.
Swisslog claims the unit sets new benchmarks in energy efficiency. Through a consistently lightweight construction and simplified design, the Technology Centre achieved a 25 percent weight reduction compared to cranes of similar height.
Customers will benefit from its experience in optimised crane controls, Swisslog says, which contribute to lowering energy consumption in the mini-load system.
The Tornado can be equipped with various load-handling units to transport cases, totes or trays weighing up to 120kg. Typical application areas are distribution centers, production storage, buffer storage, the food and beverage sector and chilled or frozen storage.
The system supports a height range of 7m to 20m and can be used for single or double-deep storage racks.
The crane boasts a maximum operating speed of 6 m/s and a maximum vertical speed of 3m/s. The unit also features high acceleration rates: 5 m/s² horizontally and 3 m/s² vertically.