Serapid Inc., a producer of lifts and horizontal motion products made with its exclusive rigid chain technology, has seen an increase overall in sales of its telescopic mast products. A new version for theatrical equipment was introduced at the recent LDI trade show in Las Vegas this past November, an expansive multi-unit metrology system was produced in 2012, and a triple-mast unit is used in a containerized weapon system for the defense industry.

One growing industry that is benefitting from the technology is the composite manufacturing industry. These manufacturers are embracing the use of virtual templates by the means of digital laser projection systems. “With laser projectors, outlines are projected by laser onto working surfaces, eliminating conventional templates”, explained Thom Tinetti, Serapid’s Industrial Sales Manager, “The outlines are generated directly onto the work material from CAD data and are true to scale. These laser devices are capable of storing multiple image files that can be switched easily when needed; however, because the device is typically positioned on a stationary support, difficulty in use arises when the laser device needs maintenance or repositioning. At greater heights, this servicing may involve using a man lift, a process that can create a lengthy interruption to the production flow as well as increased operator risk.”

To solve this issue, Serapid has developed a TeleMast™ made specifically for use in large scale composite manufacturing. The portable telescopic mast unit has a retracted height of 8.5 ft. and extends smoothly up to 35’ at a speed of 10’ per min. The laser projector is mounted on the mast, and is quickly moved up to a configurable position. The mast itself can lift 200 lbs. and as many as 4 laser projectors can be mounted on the mast.

“Serapid’s rigid chain needs no lubrication”, Tinetti notes, “It has excellent stability, and provides a smooth, quick method of positioning the laser system, creating an effective solution to lost production time and worker risk.”

Serapid
www.serapid.com