Flat Glass Solutions is bringing Italian handling expertise to UK glass processors with the introduction of two compact, flexible Elephant vacuum lifters – the VT2RP and the VT4RPBP.
The VT2RP and VT4RPBP have been selected to meet common handling requirements, and form part of a wider range of handling solutions that can transport sheet loads up to a tonne or more. The compact VT2RP offers a 200kg lifting capacity and pneumatic rotation, while the VT4RPBP handles loads of up to 400kg and incorporates both pneumatic rotation and tilting.
Alessandro Mulazzani, technical sales manager for Elephant commented:
“Whether you are shifting 200kg or 2 tonnes, the mechanics of our lifting solutions always incorporate the same priorities – quality, ease of use, and future proofed affordability. These two ‘entry level’ products are the perfect introduction to the UK glazing industry, demonstrating our understanding of heavy materials transportation within the context of a business as a whole.”
FGS Managing Director David Cahill added: “Working with Elephant over the years I have been impressed by the engineering and technology that has moved not just glass, but marble, wood and metal for more than 45 years. The VT2RP and VT4RPBP are particularly strategic products for glass companies who are struggling for space but want to incorporate a low cost solution to existing lines without the added expense and disruption of a complete upgrade.”
David added: “Not every glass processor needs the largest or most highly automated handling system available. Many simply need a well-engineered, dependable solution that removes unnecessary manual effort and makes everyday glass movement safer and easier.
“That is where these two Elephant models fit. The VT2RP provides a compact entry point for lighter applications, while the VT4RPBP offers greater capacity and the additional versatility of pneumatic rotation and tilt. They give processors two clearly defined options without making the investment unnecessarily complicated. To give this some perspective, a sheet of 6mm thick glass measuring 3m x 2m weighs around 90 kg, so the VT4 series offers plenty of safety and scope.”
Both models are powered by compressed air and use a Venturi system to generate the vacuum. This makes them particularly relevant to glass processing and fabrication businesses that already have a suitable compressed-air supply and want to improve their handling capabilities without investing in an electrically powered vacuum system.
The VT2RP is equipped with two 250mm-diameter suction cups and provides pneumatic rotation through 90°. Its compact configuration makes it suitable for processors looking for a straightforward lifting solution for smaller and lighter glass sheets.
The VT4RPBP increases the maximum lifting capacity to 400kg and uses four 300mm-diameter suction cups. In addition to pneumatic rotation through 90°, it provides 90° pneumatic tilting, helping operators move glass between horizontal and vertical orientations more safely and with greater control.
Safety is central to both designs. Depending on the selected specification, the lifters are available with a single or double vacuum safety circuit in accordance with UNI EN 13155. Safety provisions include an audible and visual alarm system, a vacuum reserve tank to help retain a secure grip, anti-fall valves and a vacuum gauge with a colour-coded scale.
The machines also use vulcanised-rubber suction cups mounted on spring supports, helping them establish a secure and consistent grip on the glass surface.
David continued: “Manual glass handling presents an obvious risk to employees, but it can also place the product itself at risk. A dropped, damaged or scratched sheet is costly, particularly as glass sizes and values increase.
“Introducing the right lifting equipment can reduce physical strain on operators, provide more controlled movement and help prevent avoidable product damage. These entry-level models make those benefits accessible to a much wider range of UK glass businesses.”
Founded in Italy in 1979, Elephant designs and manufactures lifting and handling equipment for industrial applications. Its portfolio includes vacuum lifters, jib cranes, hoists and bespoke handling systems for glass, wood, stone and other manufacturing sectors. Elephant was recently acquired by the OMIS Group, one of the leading manufacturers of lifting and handling systems in the world. This gives Elephant, and FGS, access to handling solutions from the smallest single operations, right through to transportation of supersized installations to site.
Flat Glass Solutions distributes Elephant’s glass-handling products in the UK.
