Types of coil handling devices

Coil handling is a critical operation in numerous industrial environments, as it involves moving, lifting, or positioning cylindrical loads of considerable weight and volume safely and precisely. To accomplish this, there are various coil handling devices specifically designed to adapt to the characteristics of each coil and the requirements of each production process.

When choosing a coil handling device to move heavy coils there are some key aspects to consider:

• The width and weight of the coils.
• The characteristics of the storage space.
• The type of handling: lifting or moving on a horizontal plane.

Crosby Airpes offers customized solutions for every type of situation in coil handling. Below, we explain which coil handling devices will work best in each case and how to optimize your industrial operations.

Moving coils on a horizontal surface

When coil handling requires moving them across storage space on a horizontal plane, the most efficient solution is transfer carts.

Transfer Carts for Coil Handling

Transfer carts represent a versatile option for handling coils of any type, including metal coils, paper coils, wire coils, and other industrial materials. These coil handling devices offer multiple advantages:

• Low noise levels
• High safety
• Easy operation
• Easy maintenance

There are two main types of transfer carts for coil handling:

• Steerable transfer carts: this type of transfer cart can move freely in multiple directions, offering maximum flexibility in complex spaces or when maneuvering around obstacles is required..
• Transfer cart on a rail: they can move in a single direction and are ideal for repetitive operations on production lines..

Both of them can have a JIB to lift the materials without needing overhead cranes.

For handling coils, the most common option is a battery-powered transfer cart with four-wheel drive, but, in Crosby Airpes, we can adapt the design to almost any use, like for special ATEX applications. Transfer carts can also be designed considering de inclination degree of the floor in the case that the warehouse has ramps.

We can also adjust the operation parameters, components, and vehicle options to your custom needs under request. Look at this on-demand solution: a transfer cart for 60 tones coils.

Coil handling and lifting devices

The use of one type of lifting device for the coils will be determined mainly by the maneuverability offered by the storage space and the width of the coils. There are two basic types of coil handling devices for lifting them: C-Hook-style lifters and two-arm coil tongs.

C-Hooks-style lifters for coils

A C-Hook lifter is easy to maneuver and needs less maintenance since there are no moving parts.

For efficient C-hook operation in coil handling, the aisles in the warehouse where it is used must be as wide as the lift arm, plus a few inches of clearance. It must also ensure enough space for the C-Hook to move in all necessary directions without being obstructed.

Our C-Hook-style lifters are safe, efficient, and quick devices for handling coils. They are designed to meet every customer’s load configuration, weight, lifting area, and headroom requirements. 

Additionally, you can transform your C-hook into an integrated weighing system with our weighing systems, allowing total control over coil weight during handling.

Find out more about our C-Hooks for lifting metal coils.

Two-arm coil grab: coil lifting tongs

A coil lifting tong is one of the most efficient coil handling devices thanks to its adaptable arms.

These coil handling devices are perfect for maximizing storage density in limited spaces. They only require minimal space on each side of the coil equivalent to the width of each tong arm, eliminating the need for wide aisles between stacked coils.

Their designs are scalable in terms of lifting capacity. The only limit is the lifting capacity of the crane where the tongs will be installed. Another factor to consider is the clearance height when the tongs need to operate in indoor spaces.

Their designs are scalable in lifting capacity. The only limit is the crane’s lifting capacity, where the tong will be installed. Another factor to consider is the headroom when the grab has to work in indoor spaces.

Another advantage of the lifting tongs is that being a relatively simple mechanism, they require low maintenance and can work in environments with dust, humidity, and/or high temperatures without a problem.

Our engineers design our vertical coil tongs to meet every customer’s requests on mechanical features, electronic components, and the highest safety standards.

Don’t miss out on what’s behind a lifting tong design.

How to choose the right coil handling device

Selecting the appropriate coil handling devices requires evaluating multiple operational and spatial factors. This guide will help you make the right decision:

Coil characteristics: The weight, outer diameter, inner diameter, and material of the coils determine which coil handling device is technically viable and safe.

Available space: Accurately measure aisle width, clearance height, and maneuvering areas. C-hooks require wider aisles, while coil lifting tongs maximize space utilization.

Operation frequency: For intensive and continuous operations, transfer carts offer the best balance between efficiency and ergonomics. For occasional handling with an existing crane, C-hooks or tongs may be more cost-effective.

Product variability: If you handle coils of widely varying sizes, coil lifting tongs with adjustable arms offer greater flexibility than fixed-size C-hooks.

Comparison Chart

A broad experience designing and manufacturing coil handling devices

Crosby Airpes has twenty years of experience in manufacturing different types of coil handling devices. Our track record in coil handling devices includes successful projects in the steel, aluminum, paper, cable, and other industries requiring heavy cylindrical load handling. Each coil handling device we manufacture incorporates custom engineering, certified quality, comprehensive technical support, and continuous innovation.

Ready to improve your coil handling system? Contact our specialists and discover how we can optimize your industrial operations with proven and reliable solutions.