Lifting Column

SaintyCo lifting columns are available in different options with unique and modern technologies to optimize operations in the pharmaceutical or food processing and packaging industries.

Depending on the series of SaintyCo lifting column equipment, they are designed to transfer, discharge, de-agglomerate, mill and homogenize granules. You can choose from the SaintyCo lifting column series NFT, NTS, NTG, NTD, NTY, etc.

Each lifting equipment features a unique technology such as a vacuum feeding system, chassis trolley, inversion system, telescopic post, hydraulic system, lifting drum, etc. You can choose from the 9 different types of SaintyCo lifting column machines.

The SaintyCo lifting column design is such that you can use it with other pharmaceutical equipment such as blenders, coater, tablet presses, capsule filling machines, etc.

Key Features of SaintyCo Lifting Column

• No dead angles and protruding screws
• Easy to operate and maintain
• Efficient dust handling design
• Design meets the CE, FDA and cGMP requirements
• Ensures safe operation

Lifting Columns: The Ultimate FAQ Guide

Do you want to lift IBC bin blending systems to accomplish your pharmaceutical processing needs?

Lifting columns offer a perfect solution for moving heavy bins or drums and facilitating the entire blending process.

However, you can only achieve this by choosing a high quality and reliable pharmaceutical lifting column.

Here is how to go about the entire process:

1. What is Lifting Column?

Also known as lifter column, this an electrically driven lifting equipment that depends on the design of its column to lift materials vertically.

Fixing different arms enables it to handle containers, IBCs, containers, pallets, drums, and processing equipment like vacuum conveyors, mixers, cone millers, or hoppers.

With the different adaptations of the design of the lifting column, it can easily perform other tasks apart from hoisting, swiveling, inverting or docking.

The lifting column machine comprises of linear actuators having guides to offer steady vertical movement.

It has a motor unit housed within the column that controls the equipment.

Column lifters incorporate linear drive and guidance mechanisms to provide increased mechanical steadiness in full and partially extended positions.

 Lifting column

Lifter columns provide flexible adjustment of height and are perfect for operations demanding stability and motorized movement.

Besides, the lifting machine has the capability to merge multiple lifting component to facilitate synchronized operation.

Some of the key features of modern lifter columns consist of:

• Superior bending moment
• Extra torsional rigidity
• high-precision linear guide controls
• Almost inaudible operation
• Improved height adjustment abilities.

2. What are the Uses of Lifting Column?

Application of Lifting columns range from:

Drum lifting column

· Used in High-end Medical Equipment

Lifting Columns find application in a number of modern medical equipment from examination tables to patient beds to mobility operation of medical systems.

Moreover, column lifters are used in x-ray equipment, dental and surgery chairs, and other diagnostic systems.

Integration of column lifters in modern medical equipment enables medical staff to maneuver, shift and change the position of both patients and equipment swiftly to carry out a number of medical operations quickly.

· Used in Ergonomic Standing Desk and Height Adjustable Desk

Ergonomic standing desk and height adjustable desk (also known as Sit-Stand Desk) are other devices that are adopting rapidly application of lifting column.

The fast shrinking cost and growing versatility of lifter columns are making it get more popular and find application in office furniture.

· Used in Lifting of Loads

Whether it is on a shipping or packing line or a light assembly facility, lifting columns offer a reliable, precise and safe platform that facilitates effective work without injury or fatigue.

The equipment has a variable load lifting system with a sizeable extension to reaction ratio as a result of allowing smooth upward movements.

· Moving of Heavy Corollary Equipment

Column lifters are helpful in shifting various corollary equipment in a production line to the right position ensuring an easy and efficient production.

· Used in De-agglomerating and Discharging Granules

Pharmaceutical lifting columns make it possible to hoist pharmaceutical containers to a position.

They allow for careful de-agglomeration and discharge of final granules during the process of granulation.

3. Which Types of Lifting Columns are there?

There are different types of lifter columns which come in various sizes and shapes.

Let’s explore the main types of lifting column machines which are widely used in most industries:

a) Telescopic Lifting Columns

Telescopic lifting columns are relatively different from lifter columns with forks/arms.

However, the two names are at times applied synonymously.

A telescopic lifting column comprises of a chain of concentric tubular components built to slide into each other.

They are referred to as telescopic lifter columns since they look like traditional single eye telescopes.

Nevertheless, they come in various designs comprising of two-part legs, three-part legs, square and rectangular among others.

Some of the applications of telescopic lifting column machines include wheelchairs, medical equipment like operating tables, cranes, adjustable office equipment, display stands, etc.

b) Movable Lifting Columns

This type of lifting columns are not restricted to one position on the factory floor, you can move them about depending on where you need them.

The distinguishing feature of a movable column lifter is its mobile chassis with wheels.

Some types of movable lifter columns come with a motor to steer them (drive mechanism), while others require you to move them (those lacking drives).

Moreover, some movable lifting columns require that you connect them to a power source, while others come fitted with maintenance free batteries contained in the control cabinet.

The movable lifter column should be compact and flexible.

For example, it needs to fit through entrances to access various sections of your facility.

The operator needs to have enough forward viewing angle and the load or column should not obstruct them.

Because the control panel is normally installed at the rear end, the post should be slim.

To make the equipment less voluminous and easy to move, the proper design requires that manufacturers use lightweight materials to make mobile lifting columns.

In addition, the lifting machine has to meet strict safety requirements such as explosion proof.

The wheels used by the equipment are as well of great importance.

They should be optimal for your facility’s floor, offer adequate grip even in wet settings, and not leave spots on the surface.

c) Fixed Lifting Column

This is a type of lifting column fastened on the floor and is inclined to be very sturdy and able of sustaining very heavyweights, some above 1000 Kg.

Reputable manufacturers make various quality and safety measures when designing fixed lifter columns.

The base and post of most fixed lifting columns are made of robust material, allowing it to support heavier loads than beyond its rated lifting weight.

This assists in preventing the danger of the chain breaking.

In addition, it is able to hold the load in the same position in the event of an electricity supply break in the course of operation.

Typically, you will find the hydraulic and rotary systems of fixed lifting columns installed at the base instead of the top.

This allows you to perform routine maintenance with great ease.

Because the equipment utilizes a hydraulic mechanism, the check valves stay shut blocking the hydraulic oil from streaming back into the cylinder.

d) Multiple Lifting Columns

Multi-floor lifter columns should be exceptionally reliable and appropriately made since there exist more height from one floor to the other, and thus the associated large drop.

Multi-floor lifting columns are designed to hoist heavy loads up to 2000 Kg, therefore, they require massive power to beat the greater resistance.

Applying a resilient hydraulic mechanism that offers high torque and continuous power irrespective of the weight.

Multi-floor column lifters guarantee a smooth hauling of loads between floors.

In addition, to ensure operator safety, this type of lifting column comes with systems to firmly lock bins.

This makes sure that the load does not drop to the ground in case of a power outage.

4. What are the Advantages of Lifting Columns?

 Pharmaceutical lifting column

Lifting columns offer a number of benefits over ordinary lifting systems, and some of the advantages include:

· Reduced Cost

In most cases, lifting columns come ready to fix with a simple structure and easy maintenance.

This decreases the cost of installation and maintenance throughout the lifespan of the equipment.

· Quiet Operation

The inherent quiet nature of electric motors is one major advantage of lifter columns.

Furthermore, the motor is fused within the lifting column.

This is instrumental in ensuring a very neat package and contains the noise of the motor.

Their reduced noise makes them a perfect choice for medical equipment as well as stand-up desks.

This is because they do not need extra attenuation from the noise.

· Extremely Adjustable

Lifter columns have limit switches fixed at their top and bottom, which help in automatically stopping the column at the stroke end.

The equipment uses a telescopic, multi-stage design, which reduces the space needed for an erection, while supporting a long stroke.

The machine can stop anywhere along their stroke making them exceptionally adjustable.

Lifter columns can accommodate a number of different operator heights due to the exceptional adjustability and long stroke.

This increases the ergonomics of the end user.

· Handle Heavy Loads and Eccentric Loads

One of the most crucial benefits of lifting columns is their capability to hoist heavy loads and off-center or eccentric loads.

This is appropriate for circumstances where the position of the load is variable or unknown, like the doctor’s office chair.

Lifter columns can lift the eccentric load without any extra, bulky support columns, resulting in a simpler design having a smaller footprint.

Their capacity to handle off-center loads and heavy loads enhance equipment functionality while offering appropriate adjustability and speed requirements.

5. Are there Disadvantages of Lifting Columns?

Even though the manufacturing world has registered tremendous advancements in lifting systems.

There are some applications where lifting columns cannot match the force, speed and load ratings necessary.

Lifter columns may not be fit in some conditions and will have a maximal velocity that you cannot exceed.

While it is infrequent, lifting columns can overheat when there are extraordinary alterations in duty cycle or if used beyond its warranty.

Shock loads on a Lifting column impact on its bearing or screw, leading to the chance of it affecting the performance of the whole system.

Some Lifter columns can experience issues with backlash or difficulty holding a locked position, normally rely on the screw pitch.

Lastly, the initial cost of acquiring a lifting column may be higher than other lifting system alternatives.

However, the enhanced efficiency of the entire process in addition to the negligible to no maintenance needed throughout its lifespan.

This lowers the total cost in comparison to other types of lifting systems.

6. How does Movable Lifting Columns compare to Fixed Lifting Columns?

 Fixed lifting column

Movable lifting column

As we have already seen in the guide, a movable lifting column makes it possible to shift positions from one area to another inside or outside the facility.

It is a type of lifter column having wheels that aid in the movement of the whole equipment to different positions.

A mobile lifter column is an ideal choice particularly when you are dealing with several corollary equipment concurrently.

They are helpful in enabling easy and quicker shifting of workstation given that all you need to perform is to push and affix it to the appropriate component.

In contrast, a fixed lifting column is a device used for hoisting materials though in one specific position.

The machine does not allow simultaneous lifting of different corollary equipment, hence restricting you from utilizing it in different locations.

Basically, the chassis of fixed lifting column machines are permanently attached to the floor thus it is not possible to move them.

7. What are the Components of Pharmaceutical Lifting Columns?

Operating a lifting column is very easy since it has very few parts.

The main parts of the lifter column consist of:

i. Control Box

This is the central unit that comprises of various components that control the entire functioning of the lifter column.

You can utilize it to configure the key parameters of the equipment.

ii. Chassis Trolley

This the part of the lifting column that facilitates the lifting and movement of various materials from one position to the other.

iii. Drum Inversion and Lifting System

It comprises of different components that play essential roles in the entire operation like lifting, conveying and discharging of corollary equipment.

iv. Lifter

This is the rail that offers the platform which hoists and elevate substances from a lower to a higher position.

v. Motor

An essential component of the lifting column drive system which transforms the electrical power into energy.

This allows the equipment to carry out its functions efficiently.

vi. Pneumatic Height Limit Switches

Limit switches to aid in easy control of the stroke height you would like the lifting column to reach.

8. How do Lifting Columns Work?

The working principle of the lifter column machine is very simple.

Operation of a lifter column is a straightforward process which involves:

You start the process by switching ON the motor, which gives the energy required to power the lifting column.

As the device runs, fill the appropriate container with the ingredients.

Before starting the lifting operation, make sure you accurately configure the machine.

This will guarantee the successful lifting of materials from one position to the other.

By keying in the right variables and pressing the right buttons in the control box, you will be able to control the movement of the lifter column.

The machine lifts the container to the set maximum height then it flips the container over to attach with the downstream receiving port.

Subsequently, you will join and firmly lock the passive and active valves.

After a short time, the valves open allowing the movement of materials from the container to another equipment.

9. What is a Manual Lifting Column?

As the name suggests, a manual lifter column needs aid from human in most of its operations.

For example, you will be required to help in the loading of containers with materials among other tasks.

10. What is Automatic Bin Lifting Column?

Going by the name, almost every operation with this type of lifting column is automated.

Automatic lifting columns require negligible to no human assistance in executing its tasks.

After appropriate configuration, the lifting system carries out its functions efficiently.

11. What is a Hydraulic Lifting Column?

A hydraulic lifting system depends on a pressure system to provide the driving force to operate the machine.

It does not depend on an electric system to provide the power that the machine needs to operate.

Hydraulic lifting columns are more prevalent because they have many benefits, for instance; high horsepower, ease of control, high-accuracy, they cope with a devise weight range, apply constant force for each weight, among other advantages.

Hydraulic lifting column

12. Do Lifting Columns have Maximum Weight the can Handle?

There is a maximum lifting weight or safe lifting weight set for the pharma lifting column.

The maximum weight that a pharma lifter column can lift depends on the type of lifting column.

Different manufacturers design and assemble different lifting columns at different sizes that can sustain particular weights.

13. Is Lifting Column the same as Bin Blender Column?

Bin blender column is a specialty type of lifting column which is designed and fabricated to be majorly utilized in food, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries.

Bin blender column is particularly meant for operations of handling of powders (blending and handling).

The equipment is the right choice if your manufacturing operations entail working in powdery surroundings and/or ATEX classification zone.

Bin blender column helps in optimizing the flow of production and prevent incidences of cross-contamination.

It has a simple design with the external structure made of stainless steel and the internal structure made of galvanized carbon steel.

Limit switch fitted on the lifting mechanism allows you to regulate the minimum and maximum lifting height of arms based on process requirements and specific application.

The arm has a special connection for Bin having a 10° angle to ensure an efficient mixing process.

Most Bin blender column design comes with a PLC control system that allows you to control all of its functions.

It enables you to control both vertical and horizontal movement coupled with customizable technical specifications.

14. How can you use Lifting Column and Pharmaceutical Bin Blender System?

The Bin blender column consists of a freestanding pillared design and a revolving cage for installing the bin, which is clamped firmly to the pillar.

After charging and fastening the bin, the revolving arm starts to rotate at a set speed and time (optimum speed and blend time) based on the set technological parameters.

The symmetrical axes of a hopper and the spinning center line of rotating arm set up an included angle.

Materials having different ingredients are effectively turning in the closed bin and generating high shear to attain the best effect of mixing.

One of the fundamental advantages of utilizing a Bin Blender is that it allows the homogenous mixing of various constituents.

It does so without the necessity to move the materials from one machine to the other.

This avoids any cross contamination or segregation problems.

This eliminates any segregation and cross contamination issues.

Which Industries use Lifting Column?

Bin lifting column

Here are the industries that commonly use lifting columns in their day-to-day operations:

• Pharmaceutical industry
• Food Processing Industry
• Cosmetic Industry
• Chemical industry

16. Is there Suitable Height for Pharmaceutical Lifting Column?

The length of the pharmaceutical lifting column differs based on the application you plan to use it for.

You should make sure that the equipment is long enough to enable you to utilize containers of different sizes by correctly adjusting the heights.

17. Is Pharmaceutical Lifting Column cGMP Compliant?

Yes, the design of most pharma lifting columns comply with the cGMP requirements for the production of pharmaceutical machines.

Compliance with cGMP standards is a guarantee that the lifter columns are of the highest quality.

18. Which Role does Pharmaceutical Lifting Column play in Powder Mixing and Homogenization?

Lifter columns play an instrumental role in the blending and homogenization of granules by hoisting and discharging different constituents in one specific container.

When in the mixing container, the column lifter will constantly lift, invert and discharge all the constituents in different containers.

The constant lifting, inversion, and discharging process blends all the constituents and makes a homogenous mixture.

19. Which Safety Features should Lifting Columns have?

Safety is of great concern when operating any machine that why the lifting column you buy should guarantee topmost safety.

The machine should stay safe all the time and safeguard human life even in the event of power failure.

For example, a lifting column should have an emergency loop system comprising of switch and relay.

This makes it possible to stop the equipment as soon as you press the emergency button.

With this system in place, you will have to manually restart the lifter column after ascertaining that it is safe.

20. Lifting Column is made from which Material?

Stainless steel is the common material used in the fabrication of most lifting.

It is the preferred material since stainless steel is easy to clean and maintain.

Moreover, the use of stainless steel minimizes the chances of contamination.

The high-strength stainless steel structure of lifter columns sustains the great capacity of load without bending, making the lifting systems fit for heavy-duty applications.

The light nature of the metal offers great ease in transport and movement.

Because of enhanced mobility of many lifter columns, relocation costs and concerns for operators’ injury are greatly reduced.

21. Which Mechanism does Lifting Column use to Hold Bins and Drum?

Lifting columns have different holding mechanisms to hold special containers, drums, BIN or other equipment.

However, the majority of column lifters come with interlocking safety systems that help in holding bins and drums in place in the course of the lifting process.

22. Why is Pharma Lifter Telescopic Design Useful?

The telescopic design of pharmaceutical lifting columns makes it easy to hoist materials since it does not have concave/convex faces or dead angles.

In addition, the design provides ease during cleaning and maintenance with movable parts and customized casters making it portable.

23. What is the recommended Size of Lifting Column Chassis?

There is no specific size of lifting column chassis.

The size of the chassis varies based on the application you plan to use the lifter column.

You will require a bigger chassis if you intend to use your lifting column to handle heavier loads.