Definition and Core Concepts of Air Film Movers
Air film movers are the platforms used to move loads up to 250 and 500 tons in industries. As the name suggests, the air film movers use a micro-meter-thin layer of air to move the object from one place to another. This formation of the air film greatly reduces the friction between the floor and the device. These devices are used for heavy load weighing, as moving with traditional moving devices is very difficult. Different objects like engines, locomotives, aircraft sections, and containers are moved easily by using air film movers. You will discover every detail about the air film mover in this article.
Working principle of Air Film Movers
· The core of air film technology
Air film movers work very efficiently. These devices work on ergonomics, which means that they reduce the amount of effort and energy required to move heavy loads.
· Key components
The key component of the device that helps in completing the operation of the device is:
- Air modules or air casters
- Control console
- Connecting air hoses
- Constant air supply
- Platform
- Smooth floor surface
· Operational characteristics
A constant supply of compressed air is required to move the object. This compressed air is a cushion or film between the object and the floor. The air comes out from small openings and helps to reduce the friction that resists the movement. An air cushion greatly reduces friction, which helps move the object effortlessly. Air film movers have an even distribution of the weight from a load, which helps keep the floor surface intact. The air cushion helps smooth the gliding movement of the heavy load within any industry.
Main advantages of Air Film Movers
Among the many benefits of using an air film mover are the following:
- Moving an object is quite expensive when using cranes and lorries. Air film greatly reduces the cost of moving heavy loads.
- An air cushion helps maintain the floor surface as the heavy load glides easily over it.
- Labor costs are reduced by using air film movers, as these are easy to operate.
- A great number of trips and falls can be avoided by using air film movers.
- There is no need to install or fix the air film movers. These devices are very adaptable for use.
- Air film caster systems are designed to provide great ergonomic advantages, as minimal handling is required for moving the object.
- Using a crane to handle and move heavy objects can cause serious health hazards, such as generating fumes and pollutants. Air film movers provide a pollution-free solution for moving heavy objects.
- These devices have a range of applications that you can use to move heavy and delicate products.
Application scenarios of Air Film Movers
The practical use of the air film mover has increased over time. The main applications of the machine are load handling and moving. Almost every industry needs a mover to move different heavy loads from one place to another. Here is the list of scenarios where you can use the air film mover to make the task easy and flawless.
- Suppose a transformer needs to be moved in an industry that weighs around five hundred tons. A customized air film mover can move a transformer to dispatch from the test area to production lines.
- Different locomotives, like cars, trucks, and airplanes, require the movement of heavy machinery for manufacturing. Air film movers can help move the locomotives’ different parts with ease.
- In the paper industry, the movement of the paper rolls is a very delicate process that can be done by using the platforms of the air caster machines.
- In the steel industry, moving steel rolls is quite challenging. Using air film movers has made the task manageable and efficient.
- Handling offshore equipment and propeller units in the industry has been done using air caster machines.
- A diesel engine is difficult to move, so a customized air film caster is used to move the object when needed. The engine’s approximate weight is around 100 to 2000 kg.
Comparison between Air Film Movers and traditional handling methods
In the past, people used different equipment and machinery to move heavy loads. Air film movers are very efficient and irreplaceable, but using other equipment has shown promising results.
A. Compared with wheeled transporters
Wheeled transporters, which have a 100 to 150 kg capacity, are very common in the automotive industry for moving loads with lower capacity. This equipment is difficult to handle and requires a lot of manpower to move heavy loads, unlike air film movers, which require minimal handling for moving heavy loads and machines.
B. Compared with cranes
Traditional ways of moving heavy loads include using cranes and forklifts. This type of machinery is used to move very large objects. The capacity of the crane is around 20-100 tons. Cranes have the limitation that they require a lot of space for their operation. Compared with the air film movers, which can work in a constricted area or space.
C. Compared with AGVs (automatic guided vehicles)
An automatic guided vehicle uses a guided path to move heavy loads. It is a computerized device that uses lasers and magnetic strips to do this. On the other hand, air casters are cordless devices that can move heavy loads without following a predefined path.
Key considerations for selecting Air Film Movers
Using an air film mover is a very simple and handy task. However, some considerations need to be made when employing an air bearing. As follows:
A. Ground requirements
The floor or ground on which you will use the air film mover must be very smooth. The surface must be free from any kind of steepness, holes, or steps. An ideal floor setting will lead to the best outcomes.
B. Load characteristics
The load characteristic of the air film mover is its ability to carry the load. The maximum load that an air film mover can carry is 1000 tons. While choosing an air caster, it must be kept in mind that the load-bearing requirement in the industry must be considered.
C. Operating environment
Everyone must know that the use of the equipment in any industry depends on its operating environment. Before selecting an air film mover, it is important to assess the frequency of use of the equipment. A cost-effective solution for moving heavy loads, so assessing the need before buying the device is important.
D. Customization requirements
The load-bearing capacities of the air film mover can be customized according to the industry’s needs. Increasing the number of platforms can increase the load-bearing capacity of the air film movers.
How to choose the Right Air Film Movers manufacturer
When selecting the best air film mover manufacturer, these things need to be considered.
A. Qualifications for a Good Manufacturer
The qualifications for manufacturers of air film movers are critical to ensuring the quality, reliability, and performance of these devices. A good manufacturer qualifies if it fulfills the specific design and functionality and provides better performance and efficiency of the air film movers.
B. Product range and customization capabilities
When selecting a manufacturer for an air film mover, remember that a good manufacturer provides a wide product range and customization capabilities.
C. After-sales service
A good manufacturer will provide after-sales services. Similar to fixing the equipment’s wear and tear. The buyer must assess the support and assistance provided by the company after their product is sold.
D. Success stories and customer feedback
The assessment process for selecting a manufacturer involves knowing about the brand’s success stories and the positive customer feedback. The feedback from a satisfied customer has increased the sales of any product, so it impacts the sales of the air film movers as well. The buyers must search for the success stories shared on the website to make an informed decision.
FAQs
– How heavy loads can Air Film Movers carry?
An air caster moving system is designed to move heavy loads. Every design of the air film mover can carry a heavy load of 250 to 500 tons. However, with the help of customization, the load-bearing capacity can be increased according to the industry’s needs. Changing the number of platforms and configurations can increase or decrease the air film mover capacity.
– How can the equipment be maintained to extend its life?
Air Film Movers require a very smooth, flat, and hard surface to operate effectively. The floor must be free from:
- Steep inclines or declines
- Holes or cracks
- Steps or uneven surface
A perfectly level and clean surface guarantees the air cushion forms properly, enabling smooth and frictionless movement. Poor floor conditions may alter the performance and safety.
– How can the equipment be maintained to increase its lifespan?
The lifespan of any equipment can be increased by using and following the proper guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Follow the basic instructions like:
- The air supply of the equipment must be free from any dirt or blockage to have a consistent air cushion formation.
- Inspect the equipment regularly to locate any wear, tear, and leaks.
- Clean the floor area frequently to prevent damage to the air cushion system.
- When not in use, store the equipment correctly to keep it dry and dust-free.