A key step towards safety and efficiency in the loading of catalysts and other products received in drums.
The handling of drums is a common operation across multiple industrial sectors, especially in processes involving the handling of catalyst.
At Lagupres, we had identified this task as one of the most critical in terms of ergonomics and process control.
For this reason, we decided to approach its automation as a strategic step, not only to minimise occupational risks, but also to increase operational efficiency and ensure consistent quality in every intervention.
Dangers of manual drum tipping
Manual tipping involves handling heavy drums (usually ranging from 50 to 300 kg, although in some cases we have encountered drums exceeding 300 kg) under conditions that are not always ideal. The main risk factors include:
- Physical overexertion, with the potential for injuries due to the repetitive handling of heavy weights.
- Exposure to dust, vapours or chemical substances during the pouring of the product.
- Difficulty in controlling the pouring process, which may affect product dosing or result in waste.
These factors drove us to find a solution that would not only streamline the process but also minimise occupational risks. Furthermore, in most cases, the drums are supplied on pallets containing four units, which significantly increases the physical effort and exposure of the operator if carried out manually.
Advantages of automating the drum tipping process
With the incorporation of an automated drum tipper, we have achieved a significant improvement in:
- ✅ Ergonomics and operator safety: The need for physical exertion and direct exposure to the product is eliminated.
- ✅ Process control: The system ensures precise and regulated discharge, preventing losses or errors.
- ✅ Increased speed and efficiency: The equipment can be integrated into continuous or batch workflows.
- ✅ Adaptability to multiple formats: The tipper adjusts to drums of different sizes and weights without the need for complex modifications.
- ✅ Effortless handling of the entire pallet: Thanks to an integrated rotating platform, all four drums on a pallet can be accessed without manually lifting or tipping any of them.
- ✅ Maximum safety: The equipment includes emergency stop systems and all necessary components to ensure completely safe operation.
- ✅ Mobility: The tipper can be easily transported to different work areas, making it particularly useful in large facilities or mobile processes.
Safety, our primary objective
It was not only about optimising the process or saving time, but about creating safer, more ergonomic and controlled working environments, especially in high-risk activities such as the loading of catalysts or powdery products.
At Lagupres, safety drives innovation.
We specialise in automating cleaning processes and industrial services that have traditionally involved risk or manual effort. For us, safety is non-negotiable: it is the starting point for achieving more efficient, sustainable, and high-quality processes. Every technological improvement we implement has a clear objective: to protect people and enhance operational performance.
👉 Would you like to know how we can help you optimise your industrial cleaning processes?
Contact us
