Vacuum Panel Lifter System Boosting Safety and Productivity

PRM’s ongoing investment in cutting-edge technology ensures superior performance and value for clients, all while keeping its workers safe. 

One such example of this investment is our innovative Panel Lifter System. Traditionally, the process for removing and installing crossing modules on the rail network involved a HEX or loader fitted with chains and a swift lift lifting device. It also required two personnel: one to clean out the crossing panel lugs, and a second to attach the lifting device prior to use. ​ 

This practice was frequently exposing ground crew to multiple potentially critical risks and line-of-fire concerns such as uncontrolled release of energy, vehicle impacts and falling objects. ​ 

The Solution: Bespoke Lifting Attachment Keeping Workers Out Of Harm’s Way 

Seeking a more efficient solution for panel lifting, PRM invested in a VacuWorx vacuum system and customised it for rail works in an industry first. 

This innovative vacuum lifting system, mounted on a hi-rail excavator, operates wirelessly and uses powerful suction to lift panels, eliminating the need for traditional hooks, slings or chains. 

This approach not only enhances safety by removing the need for personnel in the work exclusion area, but also enables work in challenging environments.  

PRM has successfully deployed this system for complex track works in gorge settings in the Pilbara, showcasing its versatility and effectiveness. 

The powerful attachment has the capability to safely lift heavy materials, including rail crossing panels, up to 12 tonnes. It can be configured to suit project requirements, with each suction pad having the lifting capacity of 1.5 tonne. 

The lifter is powered by diesel engines which meet tier 4 emissions standards and can be hooked up and ready to go in a matter of minutes.  As the system is not reliant on an external source for energisation, it can be operated with a loader utilising the fork holes. 

The Outcome: Eliminating Manual Handling Risks For a More Efficient Process  

The Panel Lifter System has resulted in a significantly safer and more effective method of removing and installing rail crossings. 

With no personnel required in the exclusion zone, the system virtually eliminates a raft of manual handling risks including: 

• Line of fire risks
• Uncontrolled release of energy with the chains and crossing modules
• Vehicle impacts
• Exposure to lifting operations and falling objects

The Panel Lifter System exemplifies PRM’s ethos of investing in ingenuity – delivering not just efficiency gains but also ensuring the safety and well-being of our ground crew.