U.S.-based Align Manufactures 59,000 kg Die Handler

en.Wedoany.com Reported - On October 29, U.S. industrial material handling equipment manufacturer Align Production Systems announced the delivery of a heavy-duty die handling solution: a custom-built flatbed handler with a 130,000-pound (approximately 59,000 kg) load capacity for a metal stamping manufacturer has been put into service. The equipment is primarily used for transporting large dies in the stamping production workshop, replacing the existing aging handler and meeting the requirements for floor load limits, heavy-load transport, and operational safety.

In response to the customer's facility floor structure, which is supported by underground spaces, Align designed the handler with a wide-track body and multiple idler wheels to distribute the heavy die loads over a larger ground contact area, reducing localized floor stress during transport. The equipment uses a remote operation scheme, and the design retains the potential for future upgrades to autonomous guided vehicle (AGV) functionality.

Safety features include directional indicator lights, red perimeter warning lights, and programmable safety scanners. When personnel or obstacles enter a preset safety zone, the scanners can trigger the equipment to stop. The body is also equipped with a Slipknot non-slip deck and a spring-cushioned top plate, which respectively serve to limit die slippage during transport and cushion impact during die loading.

For equipment maintenance design, Align adopted a pull-out battery tray to facilitate battery replacement. According to the project case published by the company, since delivery the handler has been participating in heavy die transport operations in the customer's stamping workshop, and customer feedback has addressed die positioning, floor protection, and equipment operational safety.