Industrial laser relocation within the plant site

Relocation of an Industrial Laser: A Case Study on Overcoming Challenges and Ensuring Precision at the Gdansk Plant Site

Introduction

The relocation of industrial machinery is a complex task that requires meticulous planning, specialized equipment, and a skilled workforce. This case study delves into the intricate process of relocating an industrial laser within the Gdansk plant site. The project was executed on a Saturday, a day when the plant was closed, allowing for the completion of the machine change within just one working day.

Initial Preparations

The first step in this intricate project was to disconnect the laser's electricity, compressed air, and liquid nitrogen. This is a crucial phase, as improper disconnection can lead to complications during the reinstallation process. All wires were carefully labeled and secured to ensure a smooth reconnection at the new location.

Equipment Utilized

For the transportation of the laser, power hydraulics were employed to place the machine on transport rollers. A set with a maximum lifting capacity of 24 tons was used for this task. The equipment and machinery used during this phase included:

• Forklift

• Transport Rollers

• Hydraulic Jacks

Overcoming Spatial Constraints

One of the initial challenges faced was the limited space between the laser and the storage racks. This made it impossible to maneuver a forklift for the relocation. To tackle this issue, a reliable tool was employed: a chain winch. Although using a winch for moving the elements is a slow and manual process, it proved to be effective.

The Relocation Process

The chain winch was used to successfully relocate the Trumpf laser to its new location within two hours. The process, although slow, ensured that the machinery was moved without any damage, highlighting the importance of choosing the right tools for specific challenges.

Leveling and Final Steps

Once the laser was in its new location, the next step was to level the machine. A flat precision level and hydraulic jacks were used for this purpose, ensuring that the laser was leveled according to the manufacturer's guidelines. After leveling, the electricity, compressed air, and nitrogen were reconnected. A thorough functionality test of the laser was conducted to ensure that it was fully operational.

Additional Equipment

Throughout the process, various other pieces of equipment and machinery were utilized to ensure a smooth relocation. These included:

• Suspensions and Hooks

• Chain Hoist

Conclusion

The relocation of an industrial laser is a complex operation that requires meticulous planning, specialized equipment, and skilled labor. Despite challenges such as spatial constraints, the right tools and strategies enabled the successful relocation of the laser within a single working day. This case study serves as a testament to the importance of detailed planning, the use of specialized equipment, and skilled execution in the machinery relocation process.

By employing a strategic approach to each phase of the project, from initial disconnection to final testing, the team was able to successfully relocate the industrial laser, ensuring its optimal functionality in its new location.

Key Takeaways

• Proper planning and the use of specialized equipment are crucial for the successful relocation of industrial machinery.

• Overcoming spatial constraints requires innovative solutions and the right tools.

• Adhering to manufacturer guidelines during the leveling process ensures the machinery's optimal functionality.

By sharing this case study, we aim to provide valuable insights into the complexities and solutions involved in the machinery relocation process, particularly focusing on industrial lasers.