Lifting Clamps for Pallets, Bricks, Blocks and Panels

A mechanical clamp grips the pack with its jaws and attaches to the forklift or crane. The load is clamped along its sides, without the need for slings. Before lifting, check that the pack is intact and that the clamp is centred, so that the elements do not slip during transport.

For blocks of adjustable height, the AKZ-UNI-H load clamp is used, while for blocks of fixed height there is the AKZ-UNI. For packs of roof tiles there is the DEZ-UNI clamp. The choice depends on the size of the block and the type of load to be moved, so it is advisable to bring a sample of the piece to the supplier.

A forklift clamp, such as the STAZ-UNI-4 or the double STAZ-DZ-II, is mounted on the forks of the vehicle. A crane or excavator clamp hooks onto the hook or the arm and is used for loads lifted at a greater distance. Always check the capacity of the forklift or crane before fitting the clamp, including the weight of the clamp itself.

A selective layer clamp, such as the STAZ-SLC, picks up only the layers or rows that are needed and leaves the rest of the load. It is useful when several products are on the same pallet or when part of the load must be taken without unpacking it. Check that the clamp is compatible with the type of pack to be moved.

For boulders there are BoulderGRAB clamps, in a manual version for two operators, such as the H-FVZ-UNI, or a mechanical version, such as the FVZ-UNI. For concrete road barriers there are the BSZ-KH clamps and the hydraulic BSZ-H version. With boulders and barriers, pay attention to the centre of gravity and the declared weight, because the load may rotate.

Before every lift, check that the jaws are clean, that the locking system works and that the load is stable. Lift with slow movements and do not pass under the suspended piece. For hydraulic clamps, check the hoses and fittings and look for any oil leaks before use.

Clamps are lifting accessories: they fall under the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, and their use on site is governed by D.Lgs. 81/2008 (Italian Legislative Decree on workplace safety), which requires periodic inspections and training of personnel. Ask for the declaration of conformity and the maximum capacity stated by the manufacturer, and keep the documentation available.

They are used by building firms, builders of residential and industrial buildings, companies laying reinforced concrete panels, and those working with sheet metal, timber or sandwich panels. The clamps are used for transport and laying on site, where cranes and excavators are already present.