Reel, Winding and Spool Handling Manipulators
The Importance of Manipulator Use in Reel Handling Processes
The safest, most ergonomic and sustainable method for handling reels, windings and spools used in industry is to perform this operation with reel lifting manipulators. Manually transporting heavy reels can cause serious back and spine injuries for operators. Therefore, industrial manipulator systems have become indispensable in reel handling operations. For more information on the advantages of using manipulators, see our guide on key advantages of manipulators.
Specially Designed Spool Handling Manipulators
Specially designed spool handling manipulators are available for transporting cable spools, paper reels, nylon windings, yarn reels, and many other coiled materials within the factory, loading them onto cutting and winding machines, and handling them in warehouses and weighing stations.
Types of Reel Lifting Manipulators
Generally, two types of manipulators are used for lifting reels:
1. Internal Mandrel Grip Manipulators
The first type enters through the reel's internal mandrel and expands. This provides a secure grip from the inner surface. Since the manipulator does not touch the winding in any way, there is no risk of marking or damaging the material.
2. External Periphery Grip Manipulators
In the second type of reel manipulator, the grip is made from the reel's external periphery. This type of gripping becomes essential in some processes where the center mandrel is full. In such cases, the pads that contact the material are produced from appropriate materials and forms so that they do not touch the winding.
Features and Capacity of Reel Lifting Manipulators
In reel lifting manipulators, reels weighing up to 1000kg can be transported ergonomically, rotated on horizontal-vertical axes, and precisely mounted onto winding shafts. This allows operators to transport heavy reels with minimum physical effort and perform precise positioning operations.
Safety Measures and Safety Systems
Reel and spool handling manipulators are also equipped with high-level safety measures, just like other manipulators. They are protected with safety circuits that will never drop the reel in case of energy or air failures, and will not harm workers or the product even in case of faulty button presses. For comprehensive safety information, see our industrial manipulator safety guide.
Applications
Reel lifting manipulators are widely used in the following sectors:
- Cable Manufacturing: Transporting cable spools and loading them onto winding machines
- Paper and Packaging: Transporting paper reels and loading them onto processing lines
- Textile: Transporting yarn and fabric reels and processing operations
- Plastic and Film: Transporting nylon and plastic film windings
- Packaging and Logistics: Transporting reels in warehouses and handling them at weighing stations
Conclusion: Safe and Ergonomic Reel Handling Solutions
In conclusion, reel, winding and spool handling manipulators protect operator health, increase production efficiency, and prevent workplace accidents by enabling safe and ergonomic handling of heavy reels. Thanks to specially designed gripping mechanisms, precise handling and loading operations are performed without damaging the material.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reel manipulator?
A reel manipulator is an industrial manipulator system specially designed for the safe and ergonomic handling of reels, windings, and spools used in industry.
Up to what weights can reel manipulators operate?
Reel lifting manipulators can safely handle reels weighing up to 1000kg and perform precise positioning operations.
What is the difference between reel manipulator types?
There are two types of reel manipulators: Internal mandrel grip manipulators provide grip from the reel's inner surface and never touch the winding. External periphery grip manipulators provide grip from the outer surface and are designed with special pads to avoid damaging the winding.
What safety measures are found in reel manipulators?
Reel manipulators are equipped with safety circuits that will never drop the reel even in case of energy failures, air cuts, and faulty button presses. These systems ensure maximum safety for workers and products.
In which sectors are reel manipulators used?
Reel manipulators are widely used in cable manufacturing, paper and packaging, textile, plastic and film, and packaging and logistics sectors.
At Soyerpek, we develop custom solutions for your reel, winding and spool handling applications. Our manipulators equipped with specially designed gripping mechanisms and high safety standards provide safety and efficiency in your reel handling processes. Explore our reel manipulator solutions and view our reference projects to see real-world applications. Contact our expert team to get detailed information about our reel manipulator solutions.