Ace Supplies Stacker Crane for 24-Hour Operation at Aluminum Facility

Ace World Companies is manufacturing a 35 ton capacity stacker crane with two lifting devices for handling coils and pallets during 24-hour operation at Logan Aluminum in Russellville, Kentucky.

A forked attachment and a singular steel rod will be permanent fixtures on the crane, which also includes an independently-operated cabin on a separate mast to the lifting attachment to enhance visibility, safety and efficiency of lifting operations.

Ace World Companies has a test tower enabling it to complete a full factory runout test on the stacker crane in Fort Worth, Texas.

The core function of the Russellville facility is to take aluminum ingots, melt them and produce coils. Logan Aluminum produces two main alloy sheet products.

Ace’s Kevin Beavers, who oversaw the sales process, said: “We are hugely excited to be finalizing the manufacturing stage of this highly specialized crane. It is a modern, bespoke design with the independently-operated cabin a standout feature. On many cranes of this type the operator’s cabin is on the same mast as the lifting device but here the operator can control his position in relation to the load to improve visibility and safety.”

The crane will replace an older stacker from another manufacturer which has been in operation since the facility was built. It operates at a key stage of Logan’s production process and the end user was very specific about the functionality and durability required. The order was placed in April 2014 with installation slated for five days during a shutdown in April 2015.

Beavers added: “The whole process has taken around two years, starting with site visits to take measurements and get a visual impression of the best possible crane we could provide. We are thrilled to be approaching installation of a crane that we know will provide a state-of-the-art material handling solution. I have been working with a great crane crew at Logan, led by supervisors who know their requirements and the demands placed upon their lifting equipment.”

The final stages of the process will be testing and operator training. Beavers anticipates that this will include six representatives from Logan Aluminum and involve sessions both onsite and at Ace World Companies in Fort Worth, Texas where the manufacturer has a test tower enabling it to complete a full factory runout test on the crane.

He said: “Logan visited our facility in the early stages of the process and were impressed by our manufacturing capabilities. We look forward to welcoming them back to complete what has been a rewarding and satisfying job for us and one that we can use to further advance our growing reputation in North America’s most demanding and specialized industries.”