An innovation to clamp down
Challenge
Changes in legislation presented an opportunity to reassess and ultimately improve our operations by investing in our infrastructure and facilities. A key part of this was participating in the development of bespoke paper clamp technology which allowed us to streamline our range of clamps and lifting fleet, whilst enhancing our handling services across various types of paper.
Solution
Collaborating with our industry leading partners, we embarked on a year-long project to engineer the most advanced and effective paper handling clamp in the industry. The new intelligent clamping system offered two distinct ranges of clamp force within the one fully automated attachment, with no manual adjustment required from the operator. The system allows for accurate clamping forces to be applied when handling a wide spectrum of dimension and weight combinations. Visual lighting indicators linked to the system also inform operators when clamping force is correctly applied to the product and to indicate when clamping arms are fully opened, both fundamental in maintaining product care and health and safety standards.
Value
With the capability to handle multiple paper products and types, this innovative clamp has allowed us to minimise downtime associated with changing equipment between tasks and to reduce costs associated with purchasing and maintaining multiple attachments. The intelligent application of pressure and visual indicators for our Operatives further enhances our ultimate goal of ensuring industry leading care for our customer’s products. Furthermore, with fewer pieces of equipment in operation overall, we have contributed to making a safer working environment for everyone at UK Paper Hub.
