Familiar technology revitalized

The new TML 250 and TML 500 lifting magnets from Hockenheim-based tool manufacturer Alfra redefine the standards in lifting technology: they are already suitable for use on thin-walled materials from a thickness of 2 millimetres, such as are usual for example in façade and container construction but also generally common in many welding applications. The TML 250 model exerts its full lifting force of 250 kilograms from a material thickness of 9 millimetres and provides a lifting force of around 100 kilograms even from material that is 3 millimetres thick. The TML 500 provides its full power from a thickness of 10 millimetres. Even from materials 5 millimetres thick, it delivers an impressive 250-kilogram lifting force. With respect to safety, both models fulfil the legal requirements: the force required to pull off the magnet is 3 times the lifting force of the respective model.

Alfra took a completely new approach in the development of the permanent magnets: “We have developed a type of magnet that forms its magnetic field optimally. With it, we avoid scatter losses and focus the force field in the desired direction. This pays off positively in nearly all applications. As a result, we achieve considerable magnetic forces even with small mass application,” Alfra director Markus Döring states. In the past, permanent magnets have frequently been large, heavy, or awkward. “Our enthusiastic users rate our new magnets as handy, sporty and even trendy,” Markus Döring reports.

Magnets for the harshest applications

In addition to above-average performance values compared with conventional lifting magnets as well as high operating safety, the TML series also stand out for their compact dimensions and light weight. As such, the casings of the TML 250 and TML 500 are made entirely of aluminium.

With a deadweight of 3.7 kilograms in the case of TML 250 and 6.5 kilograms in the case of the TML 500, both models are more than 50 percent lighter than a conventional magnet with the same performance. Because of its TiN coating, the magnetic holding surface is also permanently durable and able to withstand even the harshest applications. The surfaces are optimally protected, which makes dirt or adherent metal shavings easy to remove.

Huge range of applications

The light, ergonomic handling and the new operating concept further improve the performance of the TML series. The ergonomic activation of the magnets has been redesigned with a handy strap positioned on the side, close to the body of the magnet – unlike conventional systems in which the magnet is activated by a side lever that projects at a 90-degree angle. With the new operating concept, the lifting magnets in the TML series can also be positioned between the flanges of a steel beam with no problem. Even the recoil problem of the activation lever, which occurs in systems that are standard for the market particularly when they are used on thinner material, is almost entirely eliminated with the TML 250 and the TML 500. “Our TML magnets open up new application areas to our customers. The performance density and almost unlimited range of uses are unique in the industry,” Markus Döring explains.

…Holding as if by magic

A further highlight of both magnet systems: Being pre-stressed, they can be fitted easily onto a workpiece or steel plate with one hand, even when working overhead, vertically or at an angle. Pre-stressing ensures that the lifting magnet holds its own weight. Once attached, it can then be positioned exactly and activated with the strap. The anchor point, which can swivel through 360 degrees, automatically follows the optimal line of force and is able to withstand strain under full load in any position, ensures smooth load lifting here.

Transporting steel sheets with no grippers

With the flexible positioning and optimal magnetic material penetration, sheet steel for example can be transported without the use of grippers. “Such an application is almost impossible with conventional magnet systems. Furthermore, undesirable claw prints on the material can be avoided completely with our TML magnets. Anyone who ever holds and uses a TML will never want to part with it,” Markus Döring is confident.