Dec. /10 - VETTER Krantechnik

Betonson produces precast concrete sections
for motorway construction consisting
of a hard layer and a soft layer of
concrete. During production, the hard concrete
is first poured into the mould, followed by
the soft concrete. As later on the hard layer has
to be laid facing up on the motorway to form
the driving surface, the slabs need to be turned.
Previously, the up to 35-tonne slabs had
to be raised and turned using two hoists – a
very dangerous manoeuvre in which it was not
uncommon for the expensive slabs to be damaged.
Then the concrete manufacturer found
out about VETTER, and together a solution was
developed that was both safe and time-saving.
Responsive turning and safe control
Two load-turning devices, each with a lifting capacity
of 20 tonnes, are suspended in the exis-
The loaned device with a 20 tonne lifting capacity
ting gantry crane on two hoists. The load-turning
devices are operated via radio control which also
controls the tandem operation to enable both
devices to work in sync. This provides for responsiveness
when turning the up to five metres wide
concrete slabs. This impressive manoeuvre is controlled
by just one person from a safe distance. The
concrete slabs are held in two special slings which
have a coating with a high friction coefficient and
a high degree of cutting and non-skid resistance.
Danger of tipping minimised
The wide dimensional range of the slabs presented
a challenge. Slabs of 150 – 450 mm in thickness
had to be turned. The width of the slabs and the
given minimal lifting height of the gantry crane
can result in a very wide splay angle for the slings
on the driving rollers. This angle is restricted by
individually adjustable counterpressure rollers
ROTOMAX® lOAD-TURnInG DEVICES
so that during the turning procedure the slabs
cannot be tipped in a jerky, uncontrolled manner.
Reliable service
A special service provided by VETTER was the loan
of a device to bridge the delivery time, allowing
Betonson to meet the high demand even during
the leadtime.
bert.vandenbril@vetter-cranes.com
Beton Son B.V.
l Headquarters: Son, netherlands
l Has produced precast concrete
components for over 50 years
l Full service partner for the
manufacture, delivery and installation
of prestressed precast concrete floors,
prestressed prefabricated floors and
pile foundations
www.betonson.com
December 2010 Lift it 13