How to lift ceramic slabs and delicate surfaces: Liftstyle’s expert tips
A 500 kg ceramic slab, just a few centimeters thick, is up in the air. A high-value material that brings new operational challenges: slabs are becoming larger and thinner. Fragile surfaces, yet significantly heavy.
Companies working with ceramics—or that cut, finish, or handle delicate materials—know that even the slightest mistake can compromise the slab’s quality and slow down production. In this context, standard vacuum lifters may not be enough. Therefore, custom solutions are designed to protect the most delicate materials while ensuring safety, stability, and smooth handling for operators.
Ceramic Selection: technology that respects materials
Every day, we tackle the challenges of ceramic and valuable materials. We simply answer with our Ceramic Selection, a product line designed to handle slabs with precision, control, and zero room for error.
The lifters in this line were developed with a clear goal: combining delicacy and strength without compromise. Their compressed air system with pneumatic tilting from 0 to 90 degrees allows the slab to tilt smoothly and precisely, minimizing stress during the most critical handling phases.
Ceramic slabs can vary greatly in size, thickness, and finish. That’s why the Ceramic Selection range includes systems with 8, 9, 14, or 16 plates, designed to evenly distribute the load across the surface and adapt to different slab formats. With a lifting capacity of up to 500 kg, they ensure stability even for extra-thin or large-format materials, preventing bending, vibrations, or microcracks.
A specific lifter for delicate surfaces
Precision, sensitivity, control: this is what ceramics require in order to be handled safely. The wrong vacuum lifter can excessively pressure critical points or fail to adhere properly to the surface, increasing the risk of damage. To safely lift delicate slabs, the ideal solution should offer:
- even force distribution;
- adaptability to different thicknesses without damaging edges;
- maximum stability during operator movements.
It’s essential to assess the slab’s size and actual weight, choosing suction systems with progressive tilting to avoid sudden accidents. Even with lighter materials, working with multiple plates improves grip and reduces vibration risk. Finally, choose robust suction cups designed for easy maintenance and long-term durability.
Delicacy and technology can go hand in hand. High-end materials should not be seen as a limitation, but as an opportunity to choose more customized solutions. Ceramic slabs deserve equipment that combines respect for the material with innovation. Our consultation can help you integrate vacuum systems into your production process. Contact us here!