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Kraus & Naimer Module improves crane system
They don’t need a workout at the gym, yet they’re still incredibly strong: IWS System crane systems handle the lifting and transport of everything from small to massive loads on behalf of humans. But their energy must first be reliably channeled and second, safely stopped – preferably in stages. To achieve this, Heiko Grüner, Head of Electrical Maintenance at IWS System, was looking for a straightforward control system and has now found a suitable custom solution from Kraus & Naimer – tailored exactly to his requirements.
Configurable crane system made in Germany
The modular system of the IWS “THE LINE” light-duty crane is the flagship product of this 25-person company based in the Vogtlandkreis. Unlike many traditional gantry crane installations, it stands out for its simple assembly, fast delivery times, and maximum lifting height even with a minimal overall height. The modular system allows for adjustments and expansions at any time, making it ideal for changing operational requirements.
For example, a model requiring just three square meters of floor space is sometimes needed because there is hardly any room on site for larger structures. In other cases, IWS equips entire industrial halls where massive crane bridges move loads of up to one ton, thereby significantly streamlining processes in production, warehousing, and assembly.
A Nightmare: Complete Production Shutdown
Operational downtime is generally a major issue. If a lifting device needs to be replaced or something needs to be repaired, the entire crane system comes to a standstill. To avoid this, Heiko Grüner “... looked for a custom solution that wasn’t available off-the-shelf.” Together with the engineers at Kraus & Naimer, a special combination of a KG 20A main switch, fuses, and space-saving double terminals for potential additional equipment was therefore developed in a very compact enclosure. This makes it possible to protect each crane bridge individually – even with a single supply line – and, above all, to shut them down separately without any issues. In compliance with VDE standards, a padlock can now be attached to the switch when it is in the off position. This allows lifting equipment or auxiliary applications such as vacuum lifters and magnets to be replaced or repaired safely without bringing the entire production line to a standstill.
More than just off-the-shelf switchgear
“Here, you don’t just get an anonymous ticket; you actually have a real person on the other end,” emphasizes Grüner. He notes that this is by no means a given anymore. With its own factory in Karlsruhe and five others worldwide, Kraus & Naimer is well-positioned as a manufacturer with a high degree of production depth. The switch specialists provide personalized consultation, develop, and build main switches, control switches, repair switches, and disconnect switches of all sizes for virtually any application. Thanks to the flexible modular system, custom designs with various add-on modules – such as Padlock devices, key-lock devices, or auxiliary contacts – are no problem.
And the journey doesn’t end there: As with IWS, Kraus & Naimer designs complete solutions as pre-assembled modules with additional components and in a suitable housing. This saves time during on-site installation by eliminating tedious wiring – just plug it in and you’re done.
In addition to manual solutions, the company also offers the digital counterpart with various touch-panel series, including engineering support from the application team. 3-in-1 function handles and the new phi energy measurement system make Kraus & Naimer a multifaceted solution provider.
Worry-free and cost-effective installation
Things can get pretty hectic when setting up equipment or on construction sites. The advantages of a ready-made custom solution: components don’t have to be individually sourced, ordered, and laboriously installed. This saves valuable time and manpower; everything fits together, and no part can be overlooked.
And the experts at IWS know what they’re talking about. They not only design, build, and maintain crane systems, but also handle the transport of machinery and even relocate entire production facilities.
“Even when I’m not there, nothing can go wrong with the new custom solution,” explains Heiko Grüner with ease. “Everything now comes from Kraus & Naimer as a complete, ready-to-use package.”
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Kraus & Naimer GmbH SCHALTEN . STEUERN . VERNETZEN
IWS System GmbH ...die mit dem KRAN