Dalmec Secures Jute Bag Handling

Dalmec has developed a new version of its Partner Equo PEC articulated-arm industrial manipulator, specifically designed for handling and emptying jute sacks used in the food processing industry. Built on a self-supporting floor-mounted column, the system allows operators to safely lift, move, and empty bags weighing up to 90 kg containing commodities such as coffee, cocoa, or spices. Equipped with pneumatic clamping jaws, the gripping tool grabs and pierces the bag directly on the pallet, transfers it in a weightless state, and firmly holds it horizontally over a hopper or tank for discharge.

Ergonomics and Strict Hygiene Standards
The equipment provides an ergonomic working environment by neutralizing the weight of the load, thereby eliminating the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) associated with repetitive handling. Operators maintain total control over positioning via the control panel linked to the terminal arm, while an integrated automatic braking system secures the cutting and emptying phase. To meet the stringent hygiene standards of clean-room environments in the food and pharmaceutical industries, this solution is also available in a stainless steel version.

Additional Context: Technological Background and Market Dynamics
This section provides technological and market background not explicitly detailed in the original release.

In the food processing industry, the repetitive manual handling of heavy, deformable loads like jute sacks is a primary cause of occupational illnesses. Although jute is ideal for the breathable storage of commodities like coffee beans, it lacks ergonomic handholds, making manual emptying complex. Using purely pneumatic load-balancing manipulators not only complies with strict workplace lifting regulations but also offers a major safety advantage: the absence of electrical components at the gripping tool level eliminates the risk of sparks, which is crucial for operating in potentially explosive environments (ATEX) involving fine powders such as flour or sugar.

Edited by Lekshman Ramdas, Induportals editor – adapted by AI.

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