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Lifting stations for vertical
load transport

Wherever materials change levels, the lifting station determines whether the material flow continues or comes to a standstill. It lifts and lowers components, containers, and materials between the different levels of a production facility—in continuous operation, under high load, and often around the clock. We don’t build off-the-shelf lifting stations; instead, we tailor each one to your specific production environment—taking into account the material being conveyed, the cycle time, the available space, and the existing conveying system.

Lifting Stations

A pumping station

is a material-handling system designed for the vertical transport of loads between different levels within a production facility—for example, between the shop floor and an overhead conveyor system, or between two conveyor levels. RK-tec manufactures lifting stations in two designs: the classic counterweight model for heavy loads and a compact winch-type model for confined spaces. Positioning is handled by automation systems—precisely, safely, and reliably even under high load.

Two designs—which one is right for your system?

 

Lifting station with counterweight

The robust classic: The counterweight bears most of the load, while the drive moves only the difference. This makes the design energy-efficient and ideally suited for heavy loads in demanding continuous operation—such as for automotive body components or loaded pallets.

Diaper-Changing Lift

When space is limited, the winding hoist really comes into its own: The lifting strap winds up to save space, making the station significantly more compact and allowing it to fit even into tight hall layouts—without a shaft or elaborate foundations.

Typical Use Cases

  • Connection to the overhead conveyor system: The lifting station transfers goods from the shop floor to the overhead conveyor level—and back. When combined with our 180×60 overhead conveyor system, both are available from a single source.
  • Level Change in the Conveyor Line: The station bridges the height difference between two conveyor levels without slowing down the cycle—designed for chain, belt, and roller conveyors.
  • Workplace Ergonomics: The station raises heavy components to working height—this reduces the physical strain on your employees and speeds up processes at assembly and inspection stations.
  • Buffering and Cycling: When used with accumulation conveyors, the lifting station decouples process steps with different cycle times.

Integration, Control, Security

 

A lifting station is only as good as its integration. That’s why we handle the entire integration process: mechanical, control systems, and safety. Advanced automation systems position loads with precision—the foundation for a fully automated material flow. The safety concept, including risk assessment in accordance with EN ISO 12100 and CE marking, comes from our own design department—no one has to act as an intermediary between the mechanical supplier and the safety service provider.

When it comes to continuous operation, availability is what matters most: Our stations are built to be robust, are deliberately designed for low-maintenance operation, and are optimized to minimize downtime. We provide spare parts and service even after commissioning.

From Inquiry to Ongoing Station

Interpretation

Record the material to be handled, load capacity, lift height, cycle time, and layout
Recommendation for a system design with a clear rationale

Design & Manufacturing

In-house design; manufacturing of components in our own precision manufacturing facility
; pre-assembly and functional testing in Aiterhofen

Installation & Commissioning

Final assembly at your facility, integration into the existing system
Acceptance testing, documentation, training

Your contact person for lifting stations

Contact Person for the Electric Overhead Conveyor System: Alexander Rott AI-edited

Alexander Rott

Phone: 09421 5364321
Email: alexander.rott@rk-tec.net

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a pumping station?

A conveying system that transports loads vertically between different levels of a production facility—for example, from the shop floor to the level of an overhead conveyor. It bridges the gap that horizontal conveyors cannot span.

What loads can RK-tec's lifting stations handle?

The load capacity can be up to 10 metric tons—just give us your key specifications, and we'll design the station to meet your needs.

A wrap-around lift or a counterweight—which is better?

It depends on the space available, the lifting height, and the load: The winding hoist has a more compact design and doesn't require a shaft, while the counterweight design is more energy-efficient for heavy loads. We'll make a recommendation based on your layout—and let you know if the more affordable option will suffice.

Will an RK-tec lifting station fit into my existing conveyor line?

As a general rule, yes—integration into existing systems is the most common application, both mechanically and in terms of control systems. We also integrate third-party equipment.

Does RK-tec also handle risk assessment and CE marking?

Yes, all handled in-house: Risk assessments in accordance with EN ISO 12100 using Safexpert, safety concepts, and CE-compliant documentation are all produced by our in-house design department.

How long does a pumping station project take?

Typically, a lifting station can be designed and implemented within a few months—we work with you to set the schedule during the proposal phase

What about maintenance and replacement parts?

We provide both of these services even after commissioning. The low-maintenance design reduces the need for intervention, and scheduled maintenance ensures high availability—for us, after-sales service is an integral part of the project, not an additional business.