Sometimes the answer to a difficult question is the simple one. How do you design drum handling equipment that can operate in any climate, even in extremes where drums and barrels are likely to be used? This is especially the case for the oil industry which operates from the Arabian Gulf to the Arctic Circle.
The solution is to build a purely mechanical device manufactured from high quality steel which doesn’t depend on hydraulic or electrical systems and has no plastic components.
Sub-zero conditions
Typically, hydraulic fluids becomes less efficient as they get colder and they usually freeze at around -10 degrees centigrade unless you’re using a more expensive specialist oil.
Low temperatures can also affect plastics, which can include electrical wiring coating. At any temperature below zero they can start to lose their flexibility and become prone to brittleness, cracking or even shattering in winter conditions.
High temperatures
Conversely hydraulic oil has to dissipate heat and as the ambient temperature is increased it becomes less efficient. Strong sunlight also degrades uPVC plastic, breaking down its constituent molecules.
A simple solution for all climates
The Grab-O-Matic range of drum handling forklift truck attachments is a purely mechanical device manufactured from top quality British steel which won’t fail under normal usage. It uses no hydraulics or electrical systems or plastic parts so it continues to operate in any climate with the appropriate lubricants and cleaning care.
Manufacturers St Clare Engineering also offers an annual inspection service to customers to ensure their drum handling devices aren’t suffering from wear and tear, providing a test certificate on completion complying with H&S legislation.
St Clare Engineering and Grab-O-Matic
St Clare Engineering Ltd is a family business, manufacturing a range of specialist, high-quality fork lift truck drum handling attachments under the Grab-O-Matic trade name at our factory in Eastleigh, Hampshire.
We supply drum handling equipment to the oil, chemical, logistics and engineering industries, from the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia to Finland’s Arctic regions.
For more information on drum handling attachments from St Clare Engineering, contact us using the details below:
Andy Bow – St Clare Engineering Ltd
Tel: 02380 643402
Fax: 02380 642189
Email: sales@stclare-engineering.co.uk
Web: www.stclare-engineering.co.uk