VMB TOWERLIFTS - TIPS & MAINTENANCE

Towerlifts are a very useful tool in the entertainment industry to allow us to hold truss or lighting up in places where there are no easy rigging points. There are some practical considerations that we should be aware of to ensure that the lifts operate correctly, and so that the setup is safe.


Transport

When transporting towerlifts, always ensure that the lift is lowered to its lowest position, the legs are properly stored, and the lift is upright to ensure that the lift tubes do not slide out. If the lift is being transported horizontally it should be in a suitable case that prevents the lift tubes moving.


Before Use Inspection

Prior to setting up the lift you should check the following:

      • Ensure the crank handle is properly secured
      • Check that all bolts are secure
      • Check that all the Automatic Locking System latches are in good working order, the roll pins are secure, and the levers can operate freely
      • Check that the tail end of the lifting cable is properly secured to the winch
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      • Check that the lifting cable is not twisted, kinked, frayed, or otherwise worn and that it is not tangled on the drum

Setup

Always refer to the manual for setup instructions specific to the model of lift that you are using.

These tips are general across the range of VMB towerlifts.


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Ensure that the lift is setup on flat, hard ground and that it is installed level.

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Always use all the outriggers or stabilisers. Check that the locking pins are engaged fully.

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Never lift a load that is not secured properly. Take care when lifting with dual towers that they lift at the same rate and the load remains level.

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Do not exceed the maximum load rating for the towerlift. It should be noted that the manual will typically include a minimum weight as well. This minimum weight ensures that there is sufficient load on the lift to allow it to retract. If you need to raise the lift for inspection or maintenance, then attaching sandbags to provide that weight is recommended.

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VMB Lifts are not recommended for outdoor use without additional means of securing the towerlift. Wind loads and gusts can severely affect the load capacity and stability of the lift. If you are using the lifts outdoors you should seek an engineer’s advice on the appropriate ballast and guywires that would be required.

When the lifts are at the required height, the winch should be loosened to allow the lift tubes to rest on the ALS locks. This is to prevent shock loads in the unlikely event of a cable failure.

To lower the lift, raise the lift slightly (1-2 cm) off the ALS latches to take the load on the cable and then lower while releasing the ALS latches. If the latches are left engaged during lowering and the cable goes slack, do not release the latch until the tension has been reapplied to the lifting cable by the winch.


Maintenance

In Australia these towerlifts would come under AS2550.1 Cranes, Hoists and Winches as they are a winch-based system. This means that in addition to daily or pre-use inspections, they should also be inspected and serviced by a qualified person at least every 12 months.

Only use genuine VMB replacement parts when repairing the towerlift.

Top Load Lifters

5.35m/250kg Top Load Towerlift - Black
VMB Towerlifts – Tips and Maintenance

Line Array Lifters

5.8m/300kg Line Array Towerlift – Black
VMB Towerlifts – Tips and Maintenance

Front Load Lifters

6.3m/270kg Towerlift - Black
VMB Towerlifts – Tips and Maintenance