Vacuum Lifters for Slabs and Panels

For polished or delicate slabs, use a suction cup with a large contact area, such as the Raimondi 112 mm three-lip anti-stain cup, or a multiple suction plate that spreads the vacuum over several points. Clean the slab and the suction cup of dust and grains before each grip, because a particle under the cup can scratch the surface.

The number depends on the weight and dimensions of the slab and on the capacity stated for each suction cup. For example, the aluminium heavy-lock suction cup with a 50 kg rating and 120 mm diameter declares a capacity for each single gripping point. For large slabs, several suction cups are used together, or a frame fitted with suction cups. Always calculate the total load and leave a safety margin.

Pump suction cups create the vacuum with a plunger operated by hand, while battery models, such as the Raimondi DGT02 or RV Battery+, use a small electric pump. The choice depends on the number of grips per day and on whether the battery can be recharged. For short jobs, simple models are enough.

Suction cups are made of plastic and aluminium. Plastic is lighter and suitable for smaller pieces, while aluminium is stiffer and is chosen for heavier loads, such as heavy-lock suction cups. Always check the declared capacity and do not use a light suction cup for a heavy panel, because the seal may not be sufficient.

Before every lift, check that the vacuum is stable on the gauge, that the slab is centred and that the suction cup has no cuts or leaks. Lift slowly, do not walk under the load and do not stop with the slab in the air. If the vacuum drops, set the piece down immediately. For long or heavy slabs, ask a second operator to help.

Angled plates, such as the Probst WSP, and tilting plates, such as the ESP-SW, are used to pick up and orient slabs in a precise position. The tilt makes it possible to turn over or align the piece during laying, useful for panels to be fitted to a façade or into window frames. Check that the working angle and the gripping range match the slab to be moved.

Slab suction cups are used to lay glass, marble, natural stone and sandwich panels in curtain walling and window frames, and to fit photovoltaic panels. They are used by fitters, glaziers, marble workers and window installers. In the warehouse they are also used to move slabs without gripping them by hand, with less risk of impacts and drops.