Selecting the right glazing robot is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient glass and material handling operations. Whether you’re working with glass, stone, or other non-porous materials, this guide will provide you with valuable tips on how to choose the perfect glazing robot for your specific needs.
Tip #1 – Determine Your Load Capacity Requirements
One of the most critical factors to consider when choosing a glazing robot is its Safe Working Load (SWL) capacity. Glazing robot manufacturers offer products with a SWL ranging from 200kg up to 1000kg.
To make the right choice, evaluate the heaviest loads you will be handling on a regular basis. Ensure that your chosen robot’s SWL comfortably accommodates your maximum load requirements, leaving some margin for safety and future proofing your investment.
Tip #2 – Assess Your Indoor and Outdoor Requirements
Smartlift, a company based in Denmark, offers a range of indoor and outdoor glazing robots with different specifications to meet various requirements. For this reason, it is important to consider where you will be using the robot the most.
If your work involves both indoor and outdoor projects, opt for the versatility of a model that can handle both environments. Your choice between indoor and outdoor machines may also depend on factors like the manoeuvrability you require, the terrain your robot will have to navigate, and the weather resistance you might require.
Tip #3 – Evaluate Material Compatibility
While glass is a common material handled by glazing robots, reputable manufacturers such as Smartlift will offer changeable suction pads, making it possible for your vacuum lifting robot to work with many other non-porous materials such as granite, marble and insulated panels.
Determine the range of materials you will be working with, including any unusual shapes or sizes and textures. You should then ensure that your chosen glazing robot can accommodate your specific material handling needs, helping you get the most out of your investment.
Tip #4 – Explore Available Attachments
Some manufacturers offer a range of attachments that can be fitted to your glazing robot in order to enhance its versatility. Smartlift, for example, offers the following accessories across their model range:
- Pallet Forks
- Lifting Hooks
- Loading Ramps
- Extenders
- Remote Control Options
- Suction Pads (as mentioned earlier)
Consider which (if any) attachments would be beneficial for your projects. Pallet forks, for example, are ideal for transporting materials on pallets, while lifting hooks can be useful for handling materials with eyelets or hooks.
Tip #5 – Prioritise Safety Features
Safety should be a top priority when choosing a glazing robot. As the authorised dealer/distributor for Smartlift products across the UK and Ireland, we are often blown away by the safety features that Smartlift manage to incorporate into their machines.
You should look out for the inclusion of overload trips, emergency stops and redundancy features such as dual vacuum systems. Ensure that the robot you select has the necessary safety measures in place to protect both the operator(s) and the material(s) being handled.
Tip #6 – Consider Manoeuvrability & Size
Evaluate the size and manoeuvrability of the glazing robot, especially if you will be working in tight spaces or confined areas. Choose a robot that can easily navigate your work environment without causing damage to surroundings or compromising safety.
Smartlift for example, offers a range of models with different dimensions and wheel configurations, helping to give you a wide range of choice when it comes to this aspect. The company even recently launched the SL 309 Outdoor Compact that was specifically designed to fit into a standard construction hoist.
Tip #7 – Try Before You Buy
Consider asking your chosen dealer if they offer demonstrations of their vacuum lifting equipment. Arranging a demonstration or test drive of your chosen robot is essential to help you assess how well it will suit your needs in real-world scenarios.
Tip #8 – Training & Familiarisation
Before finalising your purchase, ask about the availability of training and/or familiarisation programs for your operators. Here at CPSLift.com, we offer familiarisation and training for all Smartlift products to ensure that users understand how to safely operate their equipment.
Conclusion
Choosing the right glazing robot involves careful consideration of factors like load capacity, indoor or outdoor use, material compatibility, attachments, safety features, manoeuvrability, and training options. By taking these aspects into account, you can confidently select the perfect glazing robot to enhance the efficiency and safety of your material handling operations.
Are you a glass installer or material handler wanting to learn more about how a glazing robot could help transform the way you work? If so, why not get in touch with one of our experts to discuss your needs and arrange a free, no obligation onsite demonstration of a Smartlift product? Simply get in touch with our experts to arrange a date and time that suits you.
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